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Paolo Rossi mourned by thousands at funeral

The 17-year-old has emerged as one of France's brightest talents but has stressed he will stay at Rennes this season

Paris Saint-Germain manager Thomas Tuchel had admitted he would love to add Rennes starlet Eduardo Camavinga to his side, but doubts a move would be financially possible. 

Camavinga added to his growing reputation on Tuesday when he became the youngest France national team player since 1914, making his international debut at the age of 17 years and 303 days.

The teenager has become a key player for Rennes at a young age, helping his side to a third-place finish last term and the club's first-ever Champions League spot. 

Though a move to Real Madrid has been mooted, Camavinga has insisted that he will stay at Rennes for the 2020-21 season.

PSG are another of a select handful of teams that would be able to pay the massive transfer fee that Camavinga would command, but Tuchel is doubtful his side could sign the midfielder — though he did admit he'd love to see the teenager line up for his side.

"Would I like to have him on my team? Yes, of course," Tuchel said with a laugh. "But I can't talk about other players, who are not from my team.

"He's one of the best players in Ligue 1. He's a great player, very strong, with a great future. But he also plays in a great team which plays in the Champions League. But that's not how it goes, it's not Monopoly!

"I'm not going to say not to recruit him, but that's not how it goes."

PSG are also in the market for a new right-back as Tuchel looks to widen the number of players available to choose from, with Arsenal's Hector Bellerin a rumoured option,

"We're looking for a right-back, it's no secret," he said. "A big difference between my first and my second season was the size of the group — we had more reliable players.

"It is important to have competition and alternative options. Now we have the proof that with a group like this, a [good] mentality and a little luck, we can create something special."

Tuchel won a clean sweep of domestic honours last season and guided PSG to the Champions League final, where they lost 1-0 to Bayern Munich on August 23.

The German coach is due to be out of contract at the end of 2020-21 but is in no rush to discuss fresh terms at the Parc des Princes.

"My contractual situation does not change anything for me," he said. "The most important thing is to create a team to continue to progress.

"Afterwards, we can discuss or not, but that does not change anything in my daily work."

PSG, without seven first-team players because of coronavirus concerns, kick off their Ligue 1 title defence with a rescheduled clash against newly promoted Lens on Thursday.

Original author: Goal

Koeman refuses to rule out Barcelona bid for Depay as he backs Griezmann to find form

Reports indicate that Amakhosi might sack Ernst Middendorp anytime soon after surrendering the PSL title to rivals Mamelodi Sundowns

Former Orlando Pirates forward Benni McCarthy has admitted that he has a “soft spot” for his childhood "love" Kaizer Chiefs and would consider a coaching job at the club.

McCarthy has been jobless since November when he was fired by Cape Town City following a difficult run that threatened them with relegation.

But with reports indicating that Chiefs coach Ernst Middendorp could be shown the exit door soon, McCarthy’s name has been thrown around as possible replacement, although the frontrunner appears to be Gavin Hunt.

After leading the PSL table for 28 games, Chiefs came within 31 minutes from winning their first league title since 2015 but capitulated in spectacular fashion on the last day of the season when Baroka held them to a 1-1 draw, throwing Middendorp’s future into uncertainty.

“I am itching [to come back to coaching]. This lockdown makes you realise how much you miss being on the touchline. I am raring to go if given the opportunity,” McCarthy told Marawa TV.

“Yes of course [I have thought about coming back to South Africa]. My first priority will always be back home because the country needs fixing.

"We are sitting on a crisis which we do not know how to fix, like the national team is suffering. Teams are doing well but we can’t seem to get it right when it comes to Bafana.

“If you are in coaching you improve so many players. I was able to improve a lot of players at Cape Town City. I boosted their national team opportunities so yes I want to get back working and get myself in. I want to get South Africa where it belongs by improving players.

“As a kid growing up I have always been a Chiefs supporter so yes [I would consider coaching Chiefs]. I have a soft spot for Kaizer Chiefs in my heart.

"Together with Manchester United, those were my two ‘loves’ when it comes to football. And then I had the privilege and honour to play for Orlando Pirates at the later stages of my career and I had an amazing time there. The team did exceptionally well under the circumstances and we won the treble.

“So two of the greatest teams in South Africa and I have been a part of. One as a supporter and the other one I have been fortunate enough to play for. Two great teams that I think any coach including coach Pitso [Mosimane]. If he gets an opportunity to manage Pirates or Chiefs, he would take it in a heartbeat because South African football is Orlando Pirates and Kaizer.”

Hunt, however, seems the likeliest, for now, to land replace Middendorp if Amakhosi fire the German.

Asked if he would be comfortable to take up a job as an assistant coach to Hunt, McCarthy responded: “You’re trying to say to me that Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho can work together. How is that going to work?”

Original author: Michael Madyira

Liverpool still an elite side but UCL final loss will test mental toughness

The Red Devils were one of several top European clubs linked with the former Lille forward before he opted for a switch to Stadio San Paolo

Manchester United wanted to sign Victor Osimhen earlier this summer but he didn't want to compete with Odion Ighalo, the Napoli star's brother has claimed.

Osimhen quickly established himself as one of the most deadly strikers in Ligue 1 after joining Lille from Charleroi in the summer of 2019.

The 21-year-old hit 18 goals in his first 38 appearances for Christophe Galtier's side, helping them finish fourth in the French top-flight and make a mark in the Champions League group stages.

He impressed enough to attract attention from some of the biggest clubs on the continent, including Arsenal and Liverpool, with Napoli eventually winning the race for his signature after striking a €50 million (£46m/$59m) deal with Lille on July 31.

United were also heavily linked with Osimhen before he made his way to Italy, and his brother has now confirmed that the talented young forward was contacted over a possible move to Old Trafford.

However, Andrew Osimhen says the Nigeria international ruled out the possibility of joining Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's ranks due to the presence of fellow countryman Ighalo, who arrived at the club on loan from Shanghai Shenhua in January.

“It is very true that Manchester United wanted Victor but he told me something like he had too much respect for Odion Ighalo to be competing for shirts with his senior colleague,” Osimhen's older brother told Complete Sports.

“My brother holds Ighalo in high esteem and he just didn’t see himself going to Old Trafford to battle for a striking role with the highest goal-scorer at the 2019 AFCON in Egypt.”

Osimhen scored three goals in eight minutes on his debut for Napoli in a comprehensive 11-0 pre-season friendly win over L’Aquila last month, but head coach Gennaro Gattuso warned supporters to be patient with their newest signing in his post-match interview.

“It’s too easy to get excited now, we’ve got to give him time and let him work, not put pressure on," said Gattuso.

“He is an important player and we paid a lot for him, but there were no doubts he would give us something different that we haven’t had in my time here. There’s a long way to go.”

Osimhen's first competitive outing for Napoli could come when they open their latest Serie A campaign away at Parma on September 20.

 

MLS Cup Playoffs preview: Orlando City

The Red Devils have been linked with the Aston Villa captain but appear to be more focused on attempting to bring in the Dortmund winger

Darren Bent is surprised that Aston Villa star Jack Grealish isn't attracting more transfer interest and suggests that he would want to be in Jadon Sancho's position and have Manchester United pushing hard to sign him.

The Red Devils have been keen to bring in the 20-year-old Dortmund winger although the Bundesliga side are reluctant to see the England international leave them in the summer.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side have also been linked with Villa captain Grealish, who made his Three Lions debut in the 0-0 draw with Denmark, although he doesn't appear to be high on the club's wishlist as things stand.

And Bent is surprised that one of the top clubs haven't swooped to sign the midfielder, believing that Villa would allow the 24-year-old to leave if their valuation of the player is met.

"Do I think he will leave Villa? Yes, but no one has come in and given £50 million, which has really surprised me," Bent told Goal ahead of the return of the EFL on Quest highlights show this Saturday. "I thought straight away that it would be between three or four clubs.

"Arguably, he could get into any squad in the Premier League but no one has gone in and said 'here we go, we will take him'. It is good for Villa, we know how much he is loved there, but for Jack, is it what he wants to do?

"It is all well and good saying he has to leave to go to the next level but no one is taking him. Maybe he is best off staying, be the main man, play every week and develop. He doesn’t want to be a bit-part player.

"It is an important time for him but if he continues [progressing], then I think he will be in the England squad. Jack could go to Spurs and get right in the team, make them better but he will have seen his name linked to United for some time.

"He will want that to be his next step but it is hard to get into those clubs. You need luck, ability and you need someone to really fancy signing you. Man United are battering down the door to sign Sancho and I am sure that Grealish would want it to be him.

"If a big bid came in, then I don’t think Villa would stand in his way after he has been so loyal to them."

Bent, who was at Villa when Grealish first started to break through at the club, believes the playmaker deserves to be cut some slack despite him receiving criticism for breaking UK lockdown restrictions earlier in the summer.

"We knew Jack had all the attributes," he added. "At first, he was quite quiet, laid back and shy when he came to train with us. But when he got the ball, you could see in certain movements that he was going to become a different level.

"He was brilliant in the Premier League and Championship in the last two years. It is a testament to himself because he has had a lot to deal with on and off the field. I think he is better for it. Listen, he is not the only one who has let people down.

"In the last couple of days, a couple of youngsters (Phil Foden and Mason Greenwood) have done things they shouldn’t have done so now people can’t throw it at Jack saying he can’t be trusted because he isn’t the only one.

"He has transformed from being a player from the youth system to Villa’s best player. I think it was a masterstroke from Dean Smith to give him the armband. I think ever since that Birmingham fan ran on the pitch and clocked Grealish, he has really changed and the perception of him has really changed.

"The way he dealt with that situation was superb. He could have reacted another way but he was calm, kept focused and he scored the winner in that game. He is a top player, one of England’s most creative players alongside Foden, Mason Mount and James Maddison.

"As far as his own personality, he has that bit of edge that you need to succeed at the top level. No one wants a team of quiet boys and you need a bit extra, which Jack has got.

"He needs to get his head down and not make too many more mistakes because he is on his way to the very top. Footballing-wise, he has got the lot."

EFL on Quest returns this Saturday at 9pm and throughout the season on Wednesdays at 10.30pm for midweek fixtures. Stream live and catch-up on dplay  

Original author: Nizaar Kinsella

Real Valladolid 0-1 Real Madrid: Player ratings as Los Blancos narrow deficit in La Liga title race

The Indian FA has selected Jharkhand as the venue to conduct camp for the Indian team ahead of the 2021 U17 Women's World Cup...

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is all set to host the India U17 women's team camp ahead of the 2021 U-17 Women's World Cup in Jharkhand from October 15.

The Indian FA had shortlisted Goa and Jharkhand as two possible venues for the training camp and were planning to conduct it by the end of August but due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the plans had to be postponed.

Later it was decided that the camp would start by October first week but the FA has now decided to further postpone it by another two weeks.

"We were planning to start the U-17 World Cup camp in the first week of October but now it will be done by 15th October," AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das told PTI.

The U17 World Cup was initially supposed to be held in November 2020 in India but due to the ongoing pandemic, FIFA came up with a revised schedule and the tournament being postponed to February 2021. The World Cup will not happen between February 17 to March 7 in six venues in India.

This is the seventh edition of the competition and the first to be hosted by India. A total of 16 nations will take part in the global event. 

Other than hosts India, five teams have already booked their places in the final round. England, Spain and Germany have qualified from the UEFA zone while Japan and North Korea will be joining from the AFC zone. New Zealand will be the sole representative from the OFC Zone. 

Original author: Ritabrata Banerjee

New York Red Bulls sign Kyle Duncan to season-long loan

The Portuguese boss couldn't resist aiming a dig at the Blues when discussing the possibility of coaching the six-time Ballon d'Or winner

Jose Mourinho has taken a subtle swipe at Manchester City by insisting that Tottenham couldn't have signed Lionel Messi because they "respect Financial Fair Play".

Messi made headlines across the world last month after handing in a formal transfer request at Camp Nou at the end of a disastrous 2019-20 campaign.

The Argentine sought to activate the release clause in his contract which allows him to leave Barca on a free transfer at the end of any season, but the club blocked his departure with the support of La Liga.

The 33-year-old had been heavily linked with a move to Manchester City, but confirmed during a world exclusive interview with Goal last week that he has agreed to remain in Catalonia for at least one more year to avoid a drawn-out legal battle.

City are one of the few clubs in world football that have the financial muscle to pull off a deal for Messi, however they were hit with a two-season European ban at the start of the year due to an alleged breach of FFP regulations.

The Blues ultimately saw that punishment lifted by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after an appeal in June, but a number of Premier League managers voiced their disapproval in the wake of the final verdict, including Mourinho.

“In the case, it's a disgraceful decision because if City are not guilty of it then you are not punished with £10m," said the Portuguese.

“If you're not guilty you shouldn't have a fine. If they are guilty the decision is also a disgrace and you should be banned from the competition."

Mourinho couldn't resist another aiming another dig at the Blues during a promotional video for Top Eleven, insisting that although Messi would make his final team, Spurs would not be willing to break any rules to try and bring him onto their books.

Asked if he would like to sign the Barca superstar, the 57-year-old told JOE: "For my Top Eleven team? No, not for Tottenham. Just for Top Eleven.

"We respect Financial Fair Play at Tottenham.

"He can only go to a team that doesn't respect Financial Fair Play, so it's not Tottenham, for sure."

Barcelona secure Xavi's first trophy as manager: Weekend Review

The former Atletico Madrid, Manchester United and Monaco forward is planning on heading to the USA when his Galatasaray contract expires

Radamel Falcao has revealed that he intends to join David Beckham at Inter Miami before hanging up his boots, with the Colombian eager to head for MLS once his Galatasaray contract expires.

The 34-year-old striker still has two years left on his deal in Turkey, however, he is already looking to the future and a potential next port of call.

Falcao would welcome the opportunity to head for the United States once he next hits the open market, with a spell in Florida holding plenty of appeal to him.

Inter Miami, with Manchester United and Real Madrid legend Beckham at the helm, are forever on the hunt for marquee additions.

It remains to be seen whether an invitation will be extended to Falcao, but the former Porto, Atletico Madrid and Monaco forward is hoping that he will be given the chance to chase a dream.

He told Daniel Habif: “I have two more years left on my contract with Galatasaray and I want to play with Inter Miami because there are a lot of Colombians there and it reminds me of my country.”

While Falcao’s plan to head to the States is all part of winding down his career, a man who previously took in Premier League loan spells at Manchester United and Chelsea says he has no plans to head into retirement any time soon.

He added on his ambition for the future: “I plan on playing for a couple more years but I have thought about my future.

“I would like to have a couple of businesses that I can manage and if not I would like to do something related to football.

“I wouldn’t want to become a manager but I would like to prepare so I can become a sporting director. 

“If not I would consider becoming a player agent because with my experience I can help the young players with their career.”

Beckham has shown how a transition can be made from player to owner, so Falcao could take some important lessons from the former England captain if he gets his wish of heading to Miami in 2022.

Original author: Chris Burton

Man Utd confirm shirt number for Wout Weghorst

The towering striker grabbed another goal as his side roared to a comfortable league win to keep fifth spot on the table

Kenya international Michael Olunga returned to action and was on the scoresheet as Kashiwa Reysol hammered Gamba Osaka 3-0 in a J1-League match played on Wednesday.

The former Gor Mahia striker had missed two straight matches for Resyol – against Shimizu S-Pulse in a 2-1 win and also the J-League Cup match against their top-tier rivals Osaka Cerezo on September 2.

However, the Kenyan player was reinstated into the starting squad against Osaka and did not take time to settle as he powered home the opener in the second minute of the match.

The towering striker received a defense-splitting pass, rounded up the Osaka defenders before sneaking a left-footed striker past the keeper for the opening goal, his 15th of the season.

Ataru Esaka then wrapped up the game for Reysol after he notched a double in the 40th and 62nd minutes for the 3-0 win.

The win enabled Kashiwa Reysol to keep fifth spot on the 18-team table with 26 points from 15 matches while Osaka remain in position eight on 23 points from 14 matches.

Kenya are looking upon the former Gor Mahia and Thika United star to lead their onslaught against Africa Cup of Nations qualification rivals Comoros later this year.

In a recent interview, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Nick Mwendwa praised Olunga for his exploits in Japan as he revealed the federation is lining up two friendly matches before facing Comoros.

“We must hold such friendlies because we need to gauge how fit our players are. But I am happy [Michael] Olunga is scoring goals in Japan and I think, he is one of the best in the world now,” Mwendwa told NTV.

The FKF top official also explained how Kenya can evolve into a regular Afcon competitor after featuring in the previous editions intermittently.

“We need to develop grassroots football so that they can feed the senior teams. I am happy our sponsors have agreed to stay with us and help push our vision in that regard,” he said.

“We need many U17s and U20s so that we can revive football across the country.

"For our football to stabilise we will have to look at the aspect of finance. That is where we have a lot of problems and if this is sorted even the national team will see success, qualify for World Cup and be a regular Afcon contestant."

Olunga’s Resyol will next face Sagan Tosu on Sunday.

Original author: Dennis Mabuka

Germany down Spain to cruise into Euro quarters

The team has managed to bring on board nine players in preparation for the new campaign

Express FC striker Frank Kalanda has lauded the technical bench for scouting what he terms as good players ahead of the new season.

The six-time league champions are restructuring ahead of the new season, hoping to offer stiff competition and push for titles. The forward has promised to help the new recruits settle well in order for them to help the team perform well.

"I think the technical team has spotted the good players," Kalanda told the club's website.

"And they are capable of handling the pressure because this is a big club. We welcome them and assure them that we shall help them adjust accordingly to help the club perform well."

The 29-year-old has also promised to score as many goals as possible for the Red Eagles in the new campaign. In the abandoned 2019/20 Ugandan Premier League season, the team managed to score 23 goals and created two.

"I am happy about last season’s performance which was down to teamwork," Kalanda continued.  

"But for this coming campaign, I want to return to the [Uganda] Cranes fold and I can only do that by scoring more goals which I am sure of doing," the striker concluded.

The new players at Express include two goalkeepers Cryspus Kusiima and Denis Otim, Isaac Nsengiyunva, Yaya Mahad Kakooza, centre-back Richard Bbosa along with midfielders Abel Eturude, Kakooza Mahad, Baker Sakah, Godfrey Lwesibawa, and forward Kiragga Mustafa.  

The club has promised fans they will work on their stadium ahead of the new season.

The Red Eagles have Wankulukuku as their venue for the home matches and the club has now promised to renovate it so as to create a conducive environment for the fans when the new season kicks off.

"Express have stepped up their bid to create a conducive environment for her fans by the time the Uganda Premier League kicks off in October," the club said in a statement released earlier.

According to the club’s CEO Isaac Mwesigwa, the club will renovate the stadium, with emphasis on the drainage system, especially near the technical area and maintaining the playing surface.

Express finished ninth in the concluded campaign. 

Original author: Seth Willis

Transfer Talk: Chelsea's revamp continues as Napoli's Koulibaly set to join

Which next-gen console are you most excited about? | Goal.com

13:37 BST 09/09/2020

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Original author: Goal

FC Cincinnati finalizing trade for Philadelphia Union forward Sergio Santos

The Belgium international playmaker concedes that Pep Guardiola’s side shot themselves in the foot on too many occasions in 2019-20

Kevin De Bruyne admits that Manchester City made too many “mistakes” in 2019-20, with the Blues unable to sustain challenges for Premier League and Champions League crowns.

Pep Guardiola’s side also saw the FA Cup ripped from their grasp, with a third successive Carabao Cup triumph representing the height of their success.

Inconsistency, particularly at the back, proved to be an issue for City throughout a testing campaign.

They remained a formidable force when performing at their best, but saw Liverpool, Arsenal and Lyon shut off routes to major silverware.

Investment has been made in the current transfer window, with Guardiola looking to fix any supposed faults, and many are tipping the Blues to bounce back in style.

De Bruyne will have a key role to play in that quest, having just been named PFA Player of the Year, and he concedes that there are obvious issues for City to address.

The Belgian midfielder told the club’s official website: “A few years ago Liverpool were behind so many points and then it got closer.

“It can change so quickly and I don’t think you can ever base a season on points difference.

“A lot of the time this year we played good enough, but we didn’t capitalise on their mistakes and we made a few mistakes too many and the other teams got goals out of it and points.

“That’s the difference. I don’t think a lot has changed from the years before, but if you make too many mistakes then you lose too many points.”

Nathan Ake has been brought in to help try and plug defensive leaks for City, with the versatile Netherlands international snapped up in a £40 million ($53m) deal with Bournemouth.

De Bruyne is helping a new recruit to settle in, saying: “He was the main guy at Bournemouth and he played all the time and built up a good reputation. I think he can do really well.

“I have already reached out and he to me for houses. I can help him a little bit. I think because we can speak the same language it will be easier to get a connection between us.”

Ferran Torres is the other fresh face at the Etihad Stadium, having made a £21m ($27m) move from Valencia, and the 21-year-old winger is another that De Bruyne has high hopes for.

He said: “I’ve not watched a lot of him.

“But to be honest, everybody who comes here has a good enough level to do well.”

Original author: Chris Burton

Arteta eyes Jan. moves after trimming squad

The Simba wa Nairobi have remained active in the market as they have unveiled a player from Uganda

Nairobi City Stars have continued with their transfer activities after signing defender Yusuf Mukisa Lubowa.

The Ugandan left-back has returned to sign a deal with the Simba wa Nairobi.

The club has confirmed in a statement on their official website: “Ugandan defender Yusuf Mukisa Lubowa is the latest player to join Nairobi City Stars. He arrives from Uganda's top-tier side Proline FC on a two-year deal.

“Mukisa returned to Simba wa Nairobi to actualise his signing in the current window after a transfer move at the first time of asking in January 2020 failed to materialize.”

Speaking on the new signing, club coordinator Samson Otieno said: “Mukisa is a utility back who is comfortable as a left, centre or right back. He is, however, coming in to fill the right-back position vacated by Kevin Okumu.

“We are certain his arrival will solidify our backline. I welcome him to Simba wa Nairobi.”

The club statement continued: “Mukisa, is a former Uganda U20 captain who also featured for SC Villa and Proline Academy. He won the Ugandan league title with Vipers in the 2015/16 season.

“Back in the years he captained Proline Academy which toured England – courtesy of Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand – and returned with 2-0 and 3-2 wins over Manchester Academy and West Ham Academy, respectively.

“He featured for Proline at the Cecafa Club Championship and Caf Confederation Cup in 2019. He had the following sentiments after being confirmed a Nairobi City Stars player.”

On signing for City Stars, Mukisa said: “I’m excited to join both the City Stars and Jonathan Jackson Foundation family.

“We have been in contact for the past six months and I came over in January and trained with the team in Nairobi. I was impressed by the playing unit, coach, structures, and feel-good atmosphere around the team.

“Now we have managed to get the deal and I wish to thank the CEO Patrick Korir and Coordinator Samson Otieno for the efforts to get me over there.

“City Stars has a great history and is known for grooming Ugandan talents such as Danny Sserunkuma, Bruno Sserunkuma, and Jimmy Bageya, among others, and I am happy to be part of this group.

“With the performances from last season, I’m certain the team will have a good season in both the Kenyan Premier League and domestic cup.”

The 27-year-old becomes the third player to join the main team after striker Erick Ombija from Gor Mahia and defensive midfielder Sven Yidah from Kariobangi Sharks.

The trio join four developmental players Rowland Makati from Vapor Sports, Timothy Ouma from Laiser Hill Academy, Ronney Kola Oyaro from Kenya School of Government (KSG), and keeper Elvis Ochieng Ochoro from Hakati Sportiff all signed in recent weeks.

Original author: Dennis Mabuka

Ukraine 0-1 Austria: Player ratings as Franco Foda's men reach last 16 of Euro 2020

The defender has been named PFA Young Player of the Year on the back of a Premier League title triumph but he sees much more to come

Trent Alexander-Arnold, the newly-crowned PFA Young Player of the Year, has warned Liverpool’s domestic and continental rivals that the “sky is the limit” for both him and the Reds.

A memorable 2019-20 campaign saw those at Anfield add a Premier League title to the Champions League crown they had claimed a year earlier.

Jurgen Klopp has brought the best out of those at his disposal, with a number of key men performing at the peak of their powers.

Alexander-Arnold, who is still just 21 years of age, falls into that category, with plaudits continuing to rain down on the buccaneering full-back.

His efforts have been recognised by his peers in the awarding of a PFA prize, but he says there is still “so much potential” in his game that can be unlocked as he hits even greater heights.

Alexander-Arnold told Liverpool’s official website: “There’s so much hunger. There are certain mentalities that are instilled in you from habits all the time, from the people around you that make you think like that, the manager, the staff and the way the club is run.

“There’s just always something more you can achieve, you can never settle on what you’ve achieved so far.

“For me, there’s a lot more to achieve and I know there’s still so much potential to reach. For me, really, the sky is the limit. That’s what I’ve got to aim for. I’ve just got to keep working hard and hopefully I’ll be able to achieve more moments like this.”

While Alexander-Arnold is targeting continuous improvement as an individual, he also believes that Liverpool can continue to thrive as a collective and add even more honours to their ever-growing collection.

The England international added: “It’s all I’ve ever known, so to be able to play for this club and to represent them on a day-to-day basis is a dream come true.

“I’m living the dream every day, and to have special days like this when I’m able to just smile at winning trophies means as a club and as a team we’ve done the right thing and we are on the right track to achieving the things we want to achieve.

“Over the last two seasons we’ve done amazing things and I think we’ve still got a lot of potential to give.

“We know we can still achieve more things. That’s the exciting part and I think it’s an exciting time to be a Liverpool player.”

Klopp’s side will open the defence of their Premier League title on Saturday when taking in a home date with top-flight new boys Leeds.

Original author: Chris Burton

PSG star Di Maria handed four-match ban for spitting incident during Ligue 1 loss to Marseille

Even though FIFA 21 has not hit shelves, you can already start collecting players and packs for the new season of Ultimate Team

FIFA 21 does not launch worldwide until October 9, but that doesn't mean you can't start preparing for your FIFA 21 Ultimate Team right now.

Millions of gamers are still playing FIFA 20 and some of those are even using the current version of the game to start building their FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) for the new season.

There are a number of ways to start collecting players and packs ahead of the launch of the game and the FIFA 21 Web App, including playing matches in FIFA 20, pre-ordering the new game and even signing up to the EA Sports newsletter.

This is how you can start building your FUT 21 team today.

How to get FIFA 21 players from FIFA 20

In order to ensure gamers keep playing FIFA 20 right up until the launch of FIFA 21, EA Sports has unveiled a promotional campaign known as Pre-Season.

This gives people rewards for both FIFA 20 and FIFA 21, meaning they can start building their FIFA 21 Ultimate Team right now.

Free kits, packs and players are available through completing Squad Building Challenges (SBCs) and Objectives in FUT.

The objectives require the user to complete certain requirements, such as scoring with Team of the Season So Far (TOTSSF) players or assisting with players of a certain nationality.

Completing the objectives provides packs in FIFA 20 as well as extra packs or rewards that will be added to your account when you start FIFA 21.

How to get FIFA 21 packs from pre-ordering

Each version of FIFA has a number of different editions which offer extra in-game content if you pre-order the game.

The Ultimate Edition is the most expensive version of FIFA 21 and gave users a special untradeable Ones to Watch player if they pre-ordered before August 14.

The Champions Edition and Ultimate Edition also provide free rare gold packs each week for the first few weeks and months following the game's release, which will help you improve your Ultimate Team.

Additionally, pre-ordering the Champions Edition or Ultimate Edition will allow you to play the game three days earlier than the official launch in October.

How to get FIFA 21 players from signing up to EA

Another way to earn free rewards for FIFA 21 Ultimate Team is to subscribe to the EA Sports Newsletter.

Signing up to the newsletter via the EA Sports website will get you a free loan Icon player when FIFA 21 launches in October.

You will receive one of three ICON players on a three-game loan, allowing you to road test these legendary figures of football for three matches.

The players available are Eric Cantona, Ronaldo or Zinedine Zidane. You can only claim one of these players, so do not bother trying to sign up to the newsletter multiple times!

You can register for the newsletter here.

Original author: Ronan Murphy

Conor Coady & Idrissa Gueye undergoing Everton medicals

Although the German head coach is certain that a prized asset will stay put for the upcoming campaign, he is not so sure about his long-term future

Manchester United-linked defender Dayot Upamecano will be staying with RB Leipzig for now, but he could leave the club next season, says Julian Nagelsmann.

Upamecano was one of the standout players in both the Bundesliga and Champions League last term, as he helped Leipzig finish third in the German top flight and reach the semi-finals of Europe's elite competition.

The 21-year-old was rewarded for his performances with a bumper new contract in July, which saw him commit his future to the club through to 2023.

However, the centre-back has now emerged on the radar of a number of high-profile potential suitors, including Premier League giants United and Arsenal.

The Red Devils are reportedly considering a summer swoop for Upamecano, who refused to rule out a possible move away from Red Bull Arena when quizzed on his future before the international break.

"I am targeted by several clubs, I speak with clubs, but I have time. We will see what happens in the future," he said.

Nagelsmann insists that the France international will continue to form a crucial part of his plans throughout the 2020-21 season, but concedes that the influential figure could move onto a new challenge next summer if he maintains his current trajectory.

"He [Upamecano] will be here for the season. I'm sure about that," the Leipzig manager told ESPN. "As for the future, I'm not sure as he is very talented.

"Lots of clubs will want to buy - next season it could be real that he leaves the club. But this season he will stay."

Leipzig have already seen one talismanic performer leave the club this year, with Germany international Timo Werner making a £47.5 million ($62m) switch to Chelsea back in June.

Nagelsmann expects the biggest clubs on the continent to continue targeting his best players, but he is also confident that Leipzig will be prepared to dip into the market for new talent to ensure that the squad keeps progressing in the coming years.

"It is normal when you work with young guys that clubs will try and find young talented guys in the transfer market," he added. "It is normal that bigger clubs will try and buy these players.

"You have to deal with that, you've got to be one step forward when you buy new players or find new players.

"Our scouting should be good and we have made a lot of good decisions in the transfer market."

Erling Haaland vows to use Liverpool miss as 'motivation' in Man City career

Video: James Rodriguez - Everton's Galactico | Goal.com

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10:57 BST 09/09/2020

GFX James Rodriguez Everton

Check out the stats behind Everton's new star signing James Rodriguez who has joined from Real Madrid for £22m

Original author: Goal

Laporta: I'd hoped Messi would stay for free

The Shinyanga-based side is aiming at defeating their hosts after the opening day heartbreak

Biashara Mara United coach Francis Baraza is expecting Mwadui FC to come with all guns blazing when they meet in the Tanzania Mainland League match scheduled for Sunday.

While Biashara started their league campaign with an encouraging 1-0 win over newbies Gwambina FC, the Shinyanga-based Mwadui FC, coincidentally, fell to another promoted side Dodoma Jiji FC by the same margin.

"It is not going to be an easy game at all, it will be tough for either side," Baraza told Azam TV.

"Mwadui are coming, full of fury after losing their opening game away; they are desperate for three points. 

"However, they are not going to find it easy on our side because we are equally prepared. Our win in the last game gave us much-needed motivation and another win at home is what we are going for. It will be satisfying to get another three points on Sunday.

The Kenyan tactician has, however, insisted he is not, in any way, underrating the visitors.

"Mwadui are a good team, with a good coach as well and they are not going to make it easy for us. However, we have a good record at home and we want to maintain it," Baraza continued.

"We will push for another win on Sunday, and I am optimistic we will get it."

Team captain Abdumajid Mangalo was impressed with the support the team received on their season opener, and hopes for more or less this weekend.

"As players, we appreciate the fans for coming in large numbers to support us in our last game [against Gwambina] and we won by a solitary goal," the skipper said.

"I am requesting them once again to turn up this Sunday and cheer us because we need their support. We promise to give our best and always give them three points."

On Friday, Gwambina FC will host Kagera Sugar while Azam will be at home to entertain Coastal Union.

Three matches will be played on Saturday; leaders KMC will play Tanzania Prisons with the defending champions Simba SC away to Mtibwa Sugar. JKT will host Dodoma Jiji FC.

On Sunday, Yanga SC will be at home against Mbeya City while newbies Ihefu FC will play Ruvu Shooting. Namungo is scheduled to host Polisi Tanzania. 

Original author: Seth Willis

Simba SC dream to bring home Caf Champions League trophy – Onyango

Domenico Tedesco worked with the highly-rated midfielder in Germany and says the 22-year-old’s ambition has guided him to this point

Weston McKennie’s former coach at Schalke, Domenico Tedesco, admits the American’s rise to Juventus was “impossible to predict” but he is not surprised to see an ambitious performer turning out for “one of the best teams in the world”.

The 22-year-old midfielder has become a shock summer addition for the Serie A champions.

A season-long loan deal that includes an option to buy has seen the United States international become the first player from his country to represent the Bianconeri.

McKennie admits to living the dream as he prepares to take on a new challenge in Italy, with his stock having risen rapidly since leaving Dallas for Germany in 2016.

Tedesco claims to have never had any doubt that the versatile operator was capable of reaching the very top, but concedes that few could have predicted that a move to Juve would materialise so soon.

A man now working at Spartak Moscow told Tuttosport of McKennie: “Weston is a very ambitious boy. 

“When I coached him at Schalke, in 2017-18, he had a clear goal in mind: to play for the best possible club. Juventus is one of the best teams in the world. 

“However, a leap of this kind was impossible to predict a year or two ago because everything changes so quickly in football. I am really happy for Weston, I wish him the best for his adventure in Turin.”

McKennie will face fierce competition for places at Juventus, but Tedesco believes the youngster’s ability to cover a number of different positions could work in his favour.

The Italian added: “Weston is very flexible. He can play as a number six or eight. And, if needed, he can also act as a right-back or central defender. 

“But I think the best from him is guaranteed by playing at eight, as an all-out midfielder. 

“Weston is fast, has good technique and is very good at pressing. He also has great heading ability. But first of all, he has another quality: he never gives up. He is someone who gives 100 per cent in every situation.”

Juventus are due to open their 2020-21 Serie A campaign, under the guidance of new boss Andrea Pirlo, at home to Sampdoria on September 19.

Original author: Chris Burton

Mbappe an injury doubt for Champions League as PSG star sits out training with thigh problem

The German head coach insists a prized duo will continue to factor into his preparations for the new season despite ongoing transfer rumours

Bayern Munich boss Hansi Flick says Thiago Alcantara and David Alaba are still in his plans ahead of the 2020-21 campaign, but has confirmed that Ivan Perisic is heading back to Inter.

Thiago has been heavily linked with a move away from Allianz Arena in recent months, having turned down the chance to extend his current contract beyond its expiration date next summer.

Liverpool are thought to be leading the race for the Spain international's signature, with Bayern reportedly ready to sanction his departure if their €30 million (£27m/$35m) asking price is met.

The 29-year-old publically stated that he hasn't told anyone he is planning to leave the club before starring in La Roja's 4-0 win over Ukraine in the UEFA Nation's League on Sunday.

However, Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has expressed his belief that Thiago will move onto pastures new before the transfer window closes, having helped Flick's men storm to Bundesliga, DFB Cup and Champions League glory last term.

Alaba is also being tipped to depart, with Chelsea and Manchester City among those being credited with an interest in a defender who has yet to commit to fresh terms with the German champions.

Like Thiago, the Austrian is set to become a free agent in 2021, and it has been suggested that Bayern may look to cash in on a prized asset in order to avoid losing him for nothing.

Flick acknowledges the uncertainty of the pair's current situation, but insists he will continue to prepare for a Bundesliga opener against Schalke next Friday with both players in mind.

“The situation is not that easy. As long as they are in the squad, I plan with both of them," The Bayern head coach told reporters at the club's treble presentation on Wednesday.

Flick went on to reveal that the Bavarians have decided against bringing Inter loanee Perisic onto their books permanently, and that he will look to bring in replacements for the Croatian, Philippe Coutinho and Alvaro Odriozola in the coming weeks.

"It has been decided that we will no longer use those three," the German head coach said of Perisic and two stars who have been sent back to Barcelona and Real Madrid after respective loan spells at the Allianz.

"We are working so that we can bring quality back into those positions."

After Bayern play host to Schalke, they will look ahead to a UEFA Super Cup final meeting with Europa League winners Sevilla on September 24, three days before they take in a trip to Hoffenheim.

Alaba says reports of €125m deal demands are 'false' and defender is 'frustrated' with Bayern after contract withdrawal

The former Blues defender believes Premier League glory will be savoured at the Etihad in 2020-21, with Phil Foden among those leading the charge

Pep Guardiola has delivered “majestic” football at Manchester City and will be “desperate” to reclaim the Premier League title in 2020-21, says Micah Richards.

The Blues have been a dominant force under a Catalan coach, with two English top-flight crowns secured alongside FA Cup and Carabao Cup triumphs.

Guardiola’s debut campaign at the Etihad Stadium delivered no major silverware, but the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss soon got to grips with an entirely different challenge.

He was, however, knocked from a lofty perch again in 2019-20, with Liverpool sweeping to a record-setting title triumph.

City were uncharacteristically inconsistent at times last season, with further forays into the transfer market during the current window intended to address those faults.

Richards expects the Blues to be firing on all cylinders again in the upcoming campaign, with fresh bids for domestic and continental trophies about to be opened.

“City's football under him has been majestic and it's puzzling how a squad packed full of world-class stars lost nine league games and ended up 18 points behind Liverpool,” Richards told the Daily Mail of Guardiola’s charges.

“Guardiola will be desperate to wrestle the title back. The title race will be tighter this season.”

Richards believes City will wrestle the Premier League crown back from Liverpool and expects highly-rated midfielder Phil Foden to help lead that charge.

The 20-year-old has been making headlines for all of the wrong reasons during the recent round of international fixtures, but he is about to fill the boots of a legend at the Etihad as an opportunity to unlock his full potential at club level is presented.

Richards said of the creative playmaker: “Let's stop the talk about Foden being one for the future. This is his time, this is his season.

“He is not here to replace the departed David Silva, he's here to write his own story. 

“Foden will be playing regularly for England in 12 months. We know about his special ability and already have seen enough glimpses of it.

“I have no doubt he is ready to shine — for Pep Guardiola and Gareth Southgate.”

City are due to open their 2020-21 campaign away at Wolves on September 21.

Original author: Chris Burton

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