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'We are in that process' - Arsenal focused on new signings amid Odegaard links, says Arteta

The Bulgarian was "pleasantly surprised" to see the altercation between the two players on the pitch, echoing Jose Mourinho's thoughts on the incident

Dimitar Berbatov has revealed that he was pleased to see Tottenham players involved in a half-time, on-field spat during their Premier League clash with Everton.

Hugo Lloris raced over to remonstrate with team-mate Heung-Min Son during Monday's meeting at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, despite the hosts holding a 1-0 advantage at the time.

The Spurs skipper explained afterwards that he confronted the South Korea international over his lack of pressing of the opposition, adding that there was no issue between the pair and that all had been resolved.

Indeed, Jose Mourinho admitted it was "beautiful" to see the two players showing passion for the cause, with Berbatov claiming that he wants to see more incidents like that from the north Londoners.

He told Betfair: "To be honest I was happy with the Spurs result against Everton, sometimes you just need grit to progress. When I was at United and we became champions, we won most games 1-0 consistently, it's the most important result in football. Three points equal three points, no matter how you get them. 

"Son and Lloris' bust up was nothing, the desire to be a winner is always high and we should see this more often from Spurs players, it shows you care, you want to win, and you have the fire to do it.

"If players aren't doing their job, they need to let each other know, even if they fight a little bit. In a way, Mourinho is right, and it was a beautiful thing to see. The only issue is that we, the fans, also saw it, and maybe it would have been better in the dressing room, but overall it's good to see the fire there.

"There were many fiery players when I was playing, everyone wanted to win. If the ref was a coach, you could bust up with them, with other players, there were fights often broken up.

"It was like this a lot at United, when [Nemanja] Vidic was kicking someone and didn’t care, you would argue and fight, but afterwards you know it's OK. We all wanted to win, and we knew that of each other.

"If I did something wrong, Giggsy would tell me, and I would say to myself 'come on now'. Patrice [Evra] was in a bust up a few times, Vidic also, it was mostly defenders as they're the tough ones. 

"I don't remember the last time Spurs did that, they have been very controlled with no anger. It was a pleasant surprise, I was like 'f*cking finally', he is captain and that is his job to let them know to be better.

"Again, maybe wait for the dressing room, but in that moment it can be an uncontrollable impulse. it was passionate, it was necessary, and when it comes from your captain you take it on the chin and do better next time."

Original author: Stephen Darwin

Eintracht Frankfurt vs Rangers: TV channel, live stream, team news & prediction

The Bulgarian was full of praise for the Juventus forward and identified the players who are set to be at the top of the world game in the future

Dimitar Berbatov has mentioned Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Mason Greenwood as the players who could potentially emulate Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in the future.

The duo, who have shared 11 Ballon d'Or awards between them and are widely considered two of the greatest players to have ever played the game, are both now in their 30s and may not be far off the end of their respective careers.

Paris Saint-Germain duo Mbappe and Neymar have long been touted as having the potential to be world football's two biggest stars when Ronaldo and Messi decide to call it quits, with both having arrived at the French club for enormous transfer fees.

And Berbatov also mentioned Greenwood, who has burst onto the scene at Manchester United and been one of the club's best players since the Premier League restart, as being another who could one day reach the very highest level.

When asked about his former team-mate at Old Trafford, Berbatov told Betfair: "On Friday, it will be two years since my former team-mate, Cristiano Ronaldo signed for Juventus.

"No one can say Cristiano hasn't been amazing in Italy, especially considering his age. He's 35 now, oh my God, most players have dropped a level by now, what he's still doing is unbelievable.

"He takes care of himself very well, probably better than he ever has, because at that age you need to work harder to stay in good shape. Messi and Ronaldo, we need to treasure them, because when it's over, it's over. They have been more than special.

"It will be one of the saddest days in world football when Ronaldo finishes playing, even those who dislike him will appreciate him. The day will come, but hopefully not for some time yet. When he's finished, other players will come, even Pele and Maradona were eventually replaced - life is a circle.

"We have Neymar, Mbappe, Greenwood, and other young players that can hopefully reach the highs of Ronaldo and Messi, as unbelievable as that may seem."

On Ronaldo's impact on the global game, with the 35-year-old having earned a reputation as one of the greatest ever for his performances for United, Real Madrid and now Juventus, Berbatov added: "Real Madrid haven't been the same since he left.

"He was a huge part of the team. He scored so many goals it's scary, he won so many trophies, and when he left, there was a big hole from his absence. Madrid will move forward, and they already have done, but he's definitely still being missed over there.

"If, and when Messi leaves Barcelona, how do you fill that gap? They have to move forward, but in a different way.

"My favourite moment with Ronaldo was when I set him up for the easiest goal of his life, against West Ham. I was going to finish it myself, but I was feeling generous that day. 

"We always saw how professional he was, we all wanted to work as hard as him, but that's why he achieved so much. All players can learn from each other, even if not by asking, just by observing.

"He was so good at an early age, he never needed advice. He always stayed after training to work hard which we all saw. We were lucky to be part of a team with him, [Ryan] Giggs, [Paul] Scholes, [Wayne] Rooney, [Gary] Neville, so many more, all the players could learn from each other."

Original author: Stephen Darwin

Chicago Fire: Chris Brady signs new contract; Gabriel Slonina called up by Poland

The tactician has supported the move taken by the promoted club to fire 11 players ahead of the new season

Melis Medo has revealed he supports the decision by Wazito FC owner Ricardo Badoer to sack 11 players for allegedly “lacking love for the game.”

Goal exclusively reported on Tuesday Wazito had released 11 players, among them, long-serving custodian Steven Njunge, midfielder Teddy Osok, forwards Victor Ndinya, Pistone Mutamba, Derrick Otanga, and goalkeeper Kevin Omondi.

While the foreign quartet of Paul Acquah from Ghana, DR Congo's Piscas Kirenge, Augustine Otu of Liberia, and Togolese Issifou Bourahana were not spared either.

In an extraordinary tweet, the club's owner Badoer has explained why he axed the players, accusing the departed 11 of "eating his money".

“Today the Wazito FC cleaning continues," he wrote on his @Donrico77 handle. "Kicking out no good f*cking hyena players that were recruited without my approval.

“All they did was to eat my money and lose games. I wish them the best on the f*cking streets where they belong.

“They lacked self-respect and love for the game."

Medo, who once coached Wazito before he was unceremoniously fired, has now defended the club’s boss for taking the decision and further said he should have done it seven months.

“Not all players deserve to go but I actually support Ricco’s decision,” Medo told Goal on Wednesday. “I said the same thing seven months ago these players were not ready to play for the team and nobody believed me.

“I also want to believe the boss when he said they were all signed without his approval.

“Actually, [Badoer] should have done these changes seven months ago, only one man keeps harming that team but he is no longer there.”

Asked whether the latest decision will spur Wazito to the title next season, Medo explained: “Not really but I am sure they will do the right thing this time around, Badoer wants commitment and fighting spirit from his players with good play, and that is what he is asking from the team.

“I agree with him 100 percent and I know they will do a great job this time, I am sure Ricco, Dennis [Gicheru[ and Fred [Ambani] will do magic together this time around.”

Kakamega Homeboyz chairman Cleophas Shimanyula has called for Badoer’s deportation for his "f*cking hyena players" comments.

Shimanyula said the Wazito boss should be deported for his lack of respect for Kenya and its players.

“Where is he from in the first place?” Shimanyula asked in an interview with Goal on Wednesday.

 “He should desist from belittling the Kenyan players. He should be deported as soon as possible. These are the kind of people who hate a country they are residing in and end up abusing Kenyans.

“How can he openly hate Kenya and the players? Even if he has got money that is his own money. Men have got money but they never brag about the same and abuse Kenyans.

“Let him be deported quickly. Let him take his money, the little money he brags of with, to his home country. He has done a grave mistake of calling Kenyans hyenas.”

Medo has also handled Sofapaka and Nakumatt FC in the Kenyan top-flight.

Original author: Dennis Mabuka

Shaqiri edges Chicharito as MLS' top-paid

The Red Devils boss joined Peter Schmeichel in piling praise on his No 1 ahead of the Danish stopper's Old Trafford appearance record

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer feels David de Gea has been the world's best goalkeeper for the last decade.

De Gea is poised to overtake United great Peter Schmeichel as the overseas player with the most appearances for the club, having initially joined from Atletico Madrid in 2011.

A number of high-profile mistakes, including a calamitous error in the 1-1 draw with Tottenham, have led to questions over the Spain international's future as No 1, especially with Dean Henderson thriving on loan at Sheffield United, but after Schmeichel insisted De Gea is the right goalkeeper for United over the long-term, Solskjaer was in agreement.

"David has had some fantastic seasons here now and next year is his 10th," Solskjaer said ahead of United's away Premier League game against Aston Villa on Thursday. "He has proven [former goalkeeping coach] Eric Steele right, that we believed in him. 

"He had a little bit of a tough ride early on, with the physicality of football in England, but, for me, he has been the best goalkeeper in the world over the last nine or 10 years.

"Just to work with him closely, you see he's still keen to learn, he's still working hard. Richard [Hartis] coming in with Craig [Mawson] as the coaches, I think they've reignited a little bit of a spark in David and he's working really hard in training."

The back problem sustained by centre-back Victor Lindelof against Bournemouth was described by Solskjaer as "not bad" and he may be able to play a part against Villa.

If not, Eric Bailly is likely to step in, with Solskjaer not feeling pressure to rotate his squad as he ponders whether to name an unchanged starting XI for the fourth straight top-flight game.

"There are not many that haven't played in the last two weeks," he said of his players not in that team. "They all know they are fit and available, that they are valued. It's not an issue. 

"There are so many things to play for. Trophies - the FA Cup, the Europa League - but also the top four in the league. The group is very tight knit and they all know they've got a part to play."

Brighton's young Polish duo are ready to make waves in the Premier League

On the back of his impressive showing against Leicester City, the ex-Monaco star has recommended the youngster gets a Nigeria call-up

Nigerian football legend Victor Ikpeba has advised coach Gernot Rohr to invite Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka to the Super Eagles.

The 18-year-old, who has been with the Gunners since he was seven years old, has been turning heads since making his first-team debut in 2018 under Unai Emery, impressing with his dribbling skills, trickery and eye for a killer pass.

Saka continued with his awe-inspiring form in Tuesday’s 1-1 draw with Brendan Rodgers’ Leicester City – his 23rd appearance in the English top-flight this term.

He supplied the assist for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s goal by making a beautiful cross to the Gabon international, who fired past goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel for his 20th goal of the season.

In awe of his showing against the Foxes, the 1997 Africa Player of the Year wants the German tactician to hand the youngster a Super Eagles chance.

“Watching the Arsenal versus Leicester City game and I think Gernot Rohr should invite Bukayo Saka to the Super Eagles camp once the paperwork have been concluded,” Ikpeba tweeted.

Despite representing England at U16, U17, U18 and U19 levels, the Ealing-born teenager remains eligible to represent Nigeria at senior level.

Speaking to BBC Sport in December 2019, the winger said he was weighing up his international options and will not rush his conclusion.

"I am always thinking about it but I haven't made a decision yet," he said.

"No-one has been in touch but when I make a decision you will find out."

Meanwhile, Rohr earlier in 2020 said players must first show interest in playing for the three-time African champions before an invitation can be extended to them.

Saka will remain at the Emirates Stadium for the foreseeable future after committing to the Gunners earlier this month.

He scored his first Premier League goal in Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on July 4.

Thus, he became the second-youngest English player to score a Premier League goal for the Gunners after Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who achieved the feat against Blackburn Rovers in 2012. 

Mikel Arteta’s men travel to the London Stadium on Sunday for their derby against Tottenham Hotspur as they continue their pursuit for a place in Europe next season.

Original author: Shina Oludare

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer unconcerned by Manchester United's semi-final record

Barcelona and Real Madrid are in the hat for the Champions League draw, while Manchester United are among those awaiting their Europa League fate

Like most other major football competitions, the 2019-20 Champions League and Europa League tournaments were drastically impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.

Action is, however, set to resume in August, with UEFA altering the normal structure of each competition in order to fit games into a tight window before the beginning of the 2020-21 season.

The European governing body is gearing up for the knockout round draws in July, but when will they take place and which teams are involved?

Goal brings you everything you need to know about the upcoming Champions League and Europa League draws.

Contents

When are the Champions League & Europa League quarter-final & semi-final draws? Which teams are involved in the Champions League draws? Which teams are involved in the Europa League draws? Where will the draws take place? How can I watch the draws? When & where are the games taking place? When will the Champions League mini-tournament take place? Where will the Champions League mini-tournament take place? When will the Europa League mini-tournament take place? Where will the Europa League mini-tournament take place?

When are the Champions League & Europa League quarter-final & semi-final draws?

The 2019-20 Champions League and Europa League quarter-final and semi-final draws will be held on Friday July 10.

Proceedings for the Champions League draw will commence at 11am BST (6am ET). The corresponding Europa League draws will take place an hour later at 12 noon BST (7am ET).

Which teams are involved in the Champions League draws?

When the draw is made on July 10, only four teams are confirmed for the quarter-finals. They are: Atalanta, Atletico Madrid, RB Leipzig and Paris Saint-Germain.

The remaining four teams will be the winners of the following ties: Chelsea vs Bayern Munich, Barcelona vs Napoli, Real Madrid vs Manchester City and Juventus vs Lyon.

Which teams are involved in the Europa League draws?

The teams carefully watching the Europa League draw are those involved in the eight last-16 ties. The winners will take their place in the quarter-finals.

Where will the draws take place?

The Champions League and Europa League draws will take place at UEFA's headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland - the customary venue for such events.

How can I watch the draws?

UEFA will stream the draws live on its official website uefa.com - meaning you will be able to follow the proceedings via your computer or tablet device.

You will also be able to follow all the news as it happens, as well as reaction to the draw on Goal's live blog, which will run during the draws on Friday morning into the afternoon.

When & where are the games taking place?

The remaining Champions League last-16 matches will be played on August 7/8, while the Europa League last-16 games will be played on August 5/6.

Due to the public health concerns and delays brought about by the coronavirus pandemic, the Champions League and Europa League will be concluded in mini-tournament format.

So, from the quarter-final stage on in each competition, every game will be a straight knockout tie and games will take place in a single host country.

When will the Champions League mini-tournament take place?

The dates for the Champions League 2019-20 mini knockout tournament are:

Quarter-finals: August 12 - August 15 Semi-finals: August 18 - August 19 Final: August 23

Where will the Champions League mini-tournament take place?

The 2019-20 Champions League mini-tournament will be played in Lisbon, Portugal.

Two stadiums will host the remaining quarter-final and semi-final matches: Sporting's Estadio Jose Alvalade and Benfica's Estadio da Luz.

The final will be played at Estadio da Luz.

When will the Europa League mini-tournament take place?

The dates for the Europa League 2019-20 mini knockout tournament are:

Quarter-finals: August 10 - August 11 Semi-finals: August 16 - August 17 Final: August 21

Where will the Europa League mini-tournament take place?

The 2019-20 Europa League mini-tournament will be played in venues across four cities in Germany: Gelsenkirchen, Duisburg, Dusseldorf and Cologne.

The stadiums in question are Koln's RheinEnergieStadion, Duisburg's MSV-Arena, Fortuna Dusseldorg's Merkur Spiel-Arena and Schalke's Arena AufSchalke.

Koln's RheinEnergieStadion has been confirmed as the venue for the 2020 Europa League final.

Original author: Goal

Pogba admits playing for Manchester United ‘is not easy’ but he is setting his sights on ‘the big stuff’

The Irish becomes the second-highest official to exit from the KPL side after Stewart Hall’s Monday departure

Kenyan Premier League (KPL) side Wazito FC have parted ways with Stephen Patrick from Ireland who was hired as the video analyst.

Patrick is the second coach to leave the Kenyan side after head coach Stewart Hall agreed to terminate his contract with the 2018/19 National Super League (NSL) champions.

The Irish analyst was hired in January as Wazito aimed at setting a new standard in the KPL even though the results on the pitch were not impressive.

“Yes, it is true [Stephen] Patrick has left the club. He and Wazito agreed to end their contract mutually,” a close source to the club told Goal on Wednesday.

“I cannot tell whether his contract was long enough to see him return to Wazito for the 2020/21 season but what I know is that he has indeed left.”

The Irish coach arrived at the same time as Augustine Otu, who had been signed from Petroleum Refining Company FC of Liberia after impressive trials with the Nairobi-based side.

Patrick’s arrival coincided with Wazito’s ability to air their matches on their sister Online Television station the Madgoat TV.

His exit comes two days after Hall left the club he had joined in November to take charge after Melis Medo was unceremoniously sacked.

Wazito became the first club to announce the exit of their head coach and the sacking of 11 players before the next campaign begins.

After struggling in the top tier, Wazito were lucky to remain there as they were 13th on the log when the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) ended the league in May due to the coronavirus restrictions.

As Hall departed, citing the need to spend time with the family in the UK, he was satisfied he and his technical team which Patrick was part of, did a good job since they were hired by the club.

“Together with my technical team, we worked really hard, the players did their part and together we managed to get some good results,” the former AFC Leopards coach stated earlier this week.

“Just before the league was stopped by the Covid-19 pandemic, we were unbeaten in almost ten matches and this shows the strides we had made as a team.

“As I depart, I want to thank the club management, the players, the other members of the technical bench, and everyone associated with the club, it was an honour to work with you. I wish the club all the best for the future, I believe I have put in a good foundation to steer the team forward.”

Among the players who have been released at Wazito include Steven Njunge, midfielder Teddy Osok, Victor Ndinya, Pistone Mutamba, Derrick Otanga, Kevin Omondi, Paul Acquah, Piscas Kirenge, Augustine Otu, and Issifou Bourahana.

 

 

 

Original author: Kiplagat Sang

Leicester's Centre-Back Options for the Opening Day of the Season - Ranked

A Gunners legend can see a divisive figure leaving Emirates Stadium in the summer transfer window

Arsenal may decide to offload Mesut Ozil to protect their "next generation" of talent, according to Martin Keown.

After being shut out of Unai Emery's plans in the first half of the 2019-20 campaign, Ozil was restored to the starting line-up when Mikel Arteta inherited the managerial reins in December.

The German midfielder showed flashes of his best form as Arsenal made an unbeaten start to 2020, but the coronavirus outbreak disrupted his progress.

The Premier League was placed on hiatus for three months, and fixtures have been played behind closed doors since the season resumed on June 17.

Ozil has not seen a single minute of action since the restart, with Arteta publicly suggesting that 31-year-old's fitness levels have fallen below the required standard.

Given his reported £350,000 in weekly wages, and the fact he has sat out the Gunners' last seven matches, questions are again being asked over his future at the Emirates Stadium.

Ozil only has one year left to run on his current contract, and Keown expects Arsenal to cut their losses on a divisive figure this summer, so that the club's younger players are not tempted to follow the same example he has set during his time in north London.

Asked if the German still has a future at the Emirates, the former Gunners defender told Stadium Astro: "No, I don’t think he does and I think really this summer now they may see the player being paid off, because I think now it’s about protecting the next generation.

"I think it’s a real shame, because he had a magnificent talent, but if you’re not prepared to work hard out of possession for the team, then you don’t get to play in the new Arsenal at the moment and that’s what Arteta is all about. 

"Work ethic comes first and then everything else is a bonus, you play from there. Clearly he’s not seeing enough on the training pitch."

Keown went on to express his belief that Ozil has been guilty of coasting at Arsenal in recent years while raking in more money than any other player currently on the club's books.

He added: "People go into comfort zones whether they like it or not, they can’t often see it. But, you know, that must have played a part. He’s a millionaire every month, after tax. 

"My attitude to that is every player should get the best contract they can, and if he’s performing he deserves that, but when he doesn’t, it’s very expensive for Arsenal Football Club.

"It maybe sends the complete wrong message to some of those youngsters, he’s had opportunities he hasn’t taken."

Lens 1-0 Paris Saint-Germain: Depleted PSG defeated after Bulka error

The Cape Town-born player has previously spent one-and-a-half season at Matsatsantsa and is contemplating another stint in Pretoria

Bidvest Wits midfielder Cole Alexander says no team has approached him so far but he “would consider going back” to his former club SuperSport United, if an opportunity comes arises.

After Wits’ Premier Soccer League (PSL) status was sold to GladAfrica Championship side Tshakuma Tsha Madzivhandila, Alexander stated that he is not willing to relocate to Limpopo.

This places the 30-year-old on the transfer market together with other Wits players who are not ready to play for Tshakuma Tsha Madzivhandila next season.

However, Limpopo is not unfamiliar territory for Alexander who has previously spent two seasons at Polokwane City.

As he prefers to remain in Gauteng, the former Ajax Cape Town midfielder says he is open to returning to SuperSport United, a club he says he has “big respect for.”

“Look, SuperSport haven't engaged with me yet and I haven't spoken to Stan Mathews,” Alexander told Sowetan Live.

“Yeah, I have been with SuperSport in the past and I have always said that they are a good club, I enjoyed my time there. I have big respect for the club and I would consider going back if the opportunity comes my way.

“I’m still contracted to Wits and I'm left with one year. So no team has approached me or anything. As players, we want to work and this Covid-19 affected everyone in the country. We are just waiting to return and to play, that's all.”

During his previous stint at SuperSport, Alexander played under Stuart Baxter and then Eric Tinkler, with current Matsatsantsa coach Kaitano Tembo being an assistant coach then.

This makes Tembo aware of the midfielder’s qualities and might consider him for his squad next season. Alexander has spent the last two-and-half seasons at Wits, whom he joined from SuperSport.

This term, the former Chippa United man has so far made 27 appearances for Wits across all competitions, scoring just one goal and making an assist.

Original author: Michael Madyira

Phil Neville taking the Inter Miami job could be a positive for Team GB

The Gunners saw their four-game winning run halted following Tuesday night's 1-1 draw with Leicester at the Emirates Stadium

Kieran Tierney says Arsenal players have total belief in Mikel Arteta and insists there is much more to come under the Spaniard.

The Gunners are showing clear signs of improvement under Arteta, who replaced previous head coach Unai Emery in December and has lost just three of his 16 Premier League games in charge so far.

Tuesday night’s 1-1 draw with Leicester City ended a run of four successive victories for Arsenal, but once again there was plenty to be encouraged about in the way they played - especially in the first half when they dominated the Foxes.

And Tierney says the improving form is down to one man.

"The boss," he said. "The boss has been brilliant.

"I think we had a period to work closely and obviously coming back we had a few weeks to work without games.

"We did that, we worked hard every day and continued into the games - the first few results we got weren’t ideal but we are building something here and it isn’t going to happen overnight. 

"I think everybody can see we are progressing well, we have still got a long way to go but we are doing all we can, listening to everything he says and we all believe."

Tuesday night’s draw leaves Arsenal seventh in the Premier League ahead of Sunday’s trip to Tottenham.

It will be Tierney’s first taste of the north London derby as he missed the 2-2 draw at the Emirates Stadium earlier in the season due to injury.

And the Scotland international says he and his team-mates must shrug off the disappointment of dropping points against Leicester as they continue to battle for a Europa League spot.

"It is a massive game for the club and a massive game for the fans," he said.

"We will pick ourselves up, there are positives to take from tonight - we are disappointed about the result and dropping two points but there are still positives and we will pick ourselves up 100 per cent and go again."

Tierney added: "Everybody wants to play European football and wants to finish as high up as we can. 

"Every game now is going to be tough in their own different ways but we look forward to the challenge."

Arsenal will be without Eddie Nketiah for the game at Spurs after the striker’s sending off against Leicester.

With Arsenal still leading thanks to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s first-half goal, Nketiah was brought on to replace Alexandre Lacazette with 20 minutes remaining but was dismissed just four minutes later for a high lunge on James Justin.

And Leicester took full advantage of their extra man, with Jamie Vardy snatching a point for the visitors with a late equaliser.

"There were positives to take but the dressing room was a bit down with the draw," Tierney added.

"Of course, a red card is always a game-changer, especially against a team like Leicester who keep the ball. 

"We did enough to win the game, getting the second goal would have been crucial. In the changing room we are all down and disappointed and we felt we played well."

Original author: Charles Watts

Resurgent Gladbach will present Bayern Munich with a stern test

The Red Devils boss has singled out the Portuguese playmaker for praise ahead of a crucial meeting with Aston Villa

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has lauded Bruno Fernandes for his "very good start" to life at Old Trafford, insisting the Manchester United talisman "has lifted everyone".

United have enjoyed a significant upturn in results since Fernandes' arrival from Sporting CP in the winter transfer window.

€55 million (£50m/$62m) was invested in a player who had yet to test himself at the very highest level of the game, but he quickly settled into his new surroundings to justify that sizeable fee.

The Red Devils haven't lost a game with Fernandes orchestrating proceedings in the middle of the park, and they could extend their recent unbeaten run to 17 matches in all competitions if they secure an away win against Aston Villa on Thursday.

The 25-year-old has recorded seven goals and six assists in his first 14 outings in United colours, helping Solskjaer's side to re-emerge as top-four contenders and potential FA Cup and Europa League winners.

Ahead of the Red Devils' trip to Villa Park, Solskjaer has talked up Fernandes' impact on the rest of the squad, while also expressing his belief that the ex-Sporting star has benefitted from being around players of the same calibre at Old Trafford.

The Norwegian boss told a press conference: “I think it’s gone both ways. Bruno has come into the club, seen how many good players there are at Manchester United, that we’ve helped him and how his attributes are as well, and it’s been a good little relationship blossoming and he can also feel we help him improve.

"He’s come in and lifted everyone and it’s been a very, very good start so far.”

Another man who has been integral to United's resurgence has been Nemanja Matic, who was rewarded for his recent performances with a new three-year contract on Monday.

The Serbian is now keeping former academy starlet Scott McTominay out of the team, but Solskjaer is confident that the Scotland international can "learn" a great deal from his more experienced team-mate which will hold him in good stead for a more prominent role in the future.

“McTominay is learning from Matic, Scott is still a young boy, seven or eight years younger than Nemanja," the United manager added.

"Nemanja’s been on record saying how much he can see himself in Scott.

"They can bounce off each other, never easy. So many times I’ve said to Nemanja I’m playing Scott today and he accepts it and, the other way around, they accept it, they can play together and I’m sure Scotty will learn from Nemanja. His attributes and the way he’s gone about his job has been great.”

‘Solskjaer needs trophy to avoid Manchester United pressure’ – Neville reflects on more semi-final heartache

The Kakamega Homeboyz boss feels the KPL club financier disrespected Kenyans and thus should be booted out of the country

Kakamega Homeboyz chairman Cleophas Shimanyula has called for Ricardo Badoer’s deportation for his "f*cking hyena players" comments on Tuesday.

After Goal had revealed the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) side Wazito FC was about to release 11 players, Badoer, via a tweet, confirmed some had already been released following what he called a "lack of love for the game".

Shimanyula said the Wazito boss should be deported for his lack of respect for Kenya and its players.

“Where is he from in the first place?” Shimanyula asked in an interview with Goal on Wednesday.

 “He should desist from belittling the Kenyan players. He should be deported as soon as possible.

“These are the kind of people who hate a country they are residing in and end up abusing Kenyans.

“How can he openly hate Kenya and the players? Even if he has got money that is his own money. Men have got money but they never brag about the same and abuse Kenyans.

“Let him be deported quickly. Let him take his money, the little money he brags of with, to his home country.

“He has done a grave mistake of calling Kenyans hyenas.”

In his rant, Badoer had claimed some of the players who have been shown the door at Wazito were signed without his express approval.

“Today the Wazito FC cleaning continues. Kicking out no good f*cking hyena players that were recruited without my approval,” the businessman had stated on his Tweeter handle.

“All they did was to eat my money and lose games. I wish them the best on the f*cking streets where they belong.

“They lacked self-respect and love for the game.”

As Shimanyula calls for Badoer’s deportation, the Kenyan immigration laws are clear on when one should be deported.

“A person who, in consequence of information received from any government or from any other source considered by the Minister to be reliable, is considered by the Minister to be an undesirable immigrant,” Kenya’s Immigration Act states as it outlines grounds where a foreigner can be deported.

“A person, or a member of a class of persons, whose presence in Kenya is declared by the Minister to be contrary to the national interests;

“A person who, upon entering or seeking to enter Kenya, fails to produce a valid passport to an immigration officer on demand or within such time as that officer may allow;

“A person who was, immediately before the commencement of this Act, a prohibited immigrant within the meaning of the former Immigration Act, now repealed, by reason of paragraph (f) or paragraph (g) of section 7 (2) of that Act;

“A person whose presence in or entry into Kenya is unlawful under any written law other than this Act; (k) a person in respect of whom there is in force an order made or deemed to be made under section 8 directing that such person shall be removed from and remain out of Kenya.”

The release of the players came a day after head coach Stewart Hall and Wazito parted ways in what they called a mutual agreement to do so.

 

 

Original author: Kiplagat Sang

How much money do Premier League 2019-20 winners get?

Some PSL teams are back on the training pitch ahead of the anticipated 2019/20 season restart

Baroka FC coach Dylan Kerr says Premier Soccer League (PSL) teams that have already started training will have an advantage over those who are yet to regroup.

Log leaders Kaizer Chiefs headline a list of teams who returned to the training field already, which also includes Cape Town City, Bidvest Wits, SuperSport United and Bloemfontein Celtic.

Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns are yet to confirm restarting training as a group.

"That's a mistake [that other clubs have already resumed]. We should have resumed on one date,” Kerr told Sowetan Live.

“If we were able to [resume] training two weeks before everybody else, that's an advantage... We're not complaining but the protocol should have said we start on the same date.”

Although two unnamed Chiefs players tested positive for coronavirus and are recovering in isolation, the club’s early return to training could be a statement of intent in their bid for a first league title since 2015.

The Soweto giants are at the top of the PSL standings, four points ahead of second-placed Sundowns - albeit having played a game more -  and would be keen to consolidate their lead in the last eight league games they have to play.

Meanwhile, Kerr says his Baroka have already put in place everything in preparation to begin working out as a team but are waiting for the PSL to give them the green light.

“We're still waiting for the authorisation from the PSL. We've done the tests, we've sanitised our field and we also have the compliance officer. We submitted our action plan last week but we haven't received any feedback from the league yet," continued Kerr.

When action resumes, Baroka would carry on with their fight against relegation.

They are currently in 13th position on the log just three points above basement side Black Leopards.

Also back on the training pitch are 14th-placed Polokwane City, who are battling to keep their PSL status afloat.

“We started on Saturday. I am very happy that at last football is promising to be back,” said Polokwane City coach Clinton Larsen.

Original author: Michael Madyira

I hope Messi goes to Man City, says ex-Barcelona assistant Unzue

Antoine Griezmann impressed for Barca as he managed to Keep A Clear Head in MD34 to score a stunning goal against Villarreal

Antoine Griezmann helped Barcelona remain in the hunt for La Liga glory, scoring a beautiful chip as Quique Setien's side recorded a comprehensive 4-1 victory over in-form Villarreal.

The France forward kept his composure to expertly dink the ball past Sergio Asenjo, and in doing so kept Barca in with a shout of overhauling Real Madrid, who currently lie top of the Liga table.

Elsewhere, Joaquin Fernandez's late winner in Real Valladolid's win over Alaves extended their unbeaten run at home to four matches - the versatile star pulled off a fine finish to all but mathematically confirm Valladolid's place in La Liga next season.

Meanwhile, Valencia star Goncalo Guedes netted a supreme goal in their 2-2 draw away at Granada.

Click the image below to relive the excitement of Matchday 34 in La Liga. 

Original author: Goal

What will Cristiano Ronaldo do when he retires from playing?

The former Germany striker explained how the euphoria of winning on the grandest stage takes over before reflecting on the glory later on in life

Germany legend Jurgen Klinsmann has revealed what it's like to win a World Cup, explaining that even playing in the tournament is the "biggest thing that can happen to you".

The former Germany international - who was capped 108 times - competed in three World Cups for his nation, winning the 1990 edition in Italy.

Klinsmann believes the feeling of participating in football's largest tournament cannot be surpassed and being lucky enough to win the event is an achievement that will always be remembered for the rest of your life.

"I think for every football player, playing in the World Cup is the biggest thing that can happen to you and if you have the luck to win a World Cup, it will stay with you for the rest of your life," Klinsmann said in an exclusive interview with Goal.

"In the moment, if you’re actually lucky enough to win it, you don’t realise what actually happened. You just think it's party time and you want to celebrate.

"But later on, after your career is over, you travel the world and meet people who talk to you and remind you of that World Cup success. Then you realise that it was actually a really big thing that happened.

"It’s a pleasure when you get remembered or reminded of what you achieved in that moment with your team and country, and you share that moment with so many people out there, who watched it on TV or maybe were lucky enough to be in the stadium. It will always stay with you no matter what."

Klinsmann enjoyed a distinguished playing career that saw him play for the likes of Inter, Tottenham and Bayern, before beginning his managerial career with the German national team in 2004.

The 55-year-old has also had coaching stints with Bayern, the USMNT and most recently took charge of Hertha Berlin for a 10-week period.

When asked about the coaching influences that took him toward a post-playing career in management, Klinsmann namedropped some of football's biggest names.

"I learned so much from Franz Beckenbauer and afterwards from Berti Vogts, as the head coach of the German team," he said. 

"Throughout every tournament, you observe your coach, the coaching staff, different departments that work with a team, whether it’s the medical department, media department, or marketing-related issues.

"Even today, you watch all the Champions League games, you always see what a Guardiola, an Ancelotti, a Mourinho... what these coaches are doing differently, what are they changing, what are their problems.

"I learned a lot from my former coaches, I had fantastic coaches throughout my career: Giovanni Trapattoni, Osvaldo Ardiles, [Cesar Luis] Menotti, Beckenbauer, Arie Haan. Arsene Wenger also, I was very fortunate to work with him."

Original author: Naim Beneddra

‘Messi still a magician & would be incredible for Man City’ – Transfer talk excites Richards

The Blues have revealed two of their fresh styles for the upcoming season, including traditional home colours and an 'Arctic blue' away shirt

Frank Lampard's young Chelsea side are in the middle of undergoing a rebuild, and their new jerseys are a reflection of the club's long-term vision to be restored to the Premier League elite.

Goal has the latest information about Chelsea's newest shirts - home, away and third - as well as when they expected to be fully released and more.

New 2020-21 football kits: Chelsea, Bayern Munich & all the top clubs' shirts & jerseys revealed

Chelsea's 2020-21 home kit & release date

The Blues' newest home shirt under Nike is an overhaul of their previous jerseys, a nod to the London side's young team under Lampard.

Three, a UK telecommunications and internet service provider business, has replaced Yokohama Tyres as the club's main sponsor. The red accents of previous home kits are abandoned in favour of a solid dark blue colour with a black trim.

The sleek kit is said to be inspired by west London tailors Savile Row and has been backed by one of the top performers in the squad for 2019-20.

The club said: "Chelsea’s 2020-21 home kit brings a touch of Savile Row to Stamford Bridge by blending the latest in athletic innovation with the finesse of fine London tailoring."

"The kit is really, really smart – very Chelsea," forward Tammy Abraham added. "You can see the story behind the kit with how it looks and all the little touches that remind you of a good suit.

"I think we will certainly be the best dressed team next season."

Chelsea debuted their new home kit against crosstown rivals West Ham on July 1, with the shirt available for purchase starting July 9 .

Chelsea's 2020-21 away kit & release

The west Londoners have adopted an Arctic blue shade for their away kit, which is to reflect the "millennial swagger" shown by their young side.

It builds on from using the tailors of Savile Row as inspiration, with the club saying: “Chelsea’s stunning 2020-21 away kit effortlessly blends an aura of traditional London tailoring with the energy and colours of today’s SW6.

“Building on the theme of the club’s new home look, the Blues’ changed colours celebrate the capital’s love affair with the craftsmanship of master tailors.

“However, the away kit adds an injection of millennial swagger – perfect for the confident, emerging talents lighting up Stamford Bridge under head coach Lampard."

Lampard's side debuted their away colours in their Premier League victory against Crystal Palace on July 7, with fans able to purchase the shirt starting July 30.

Chelsea's 2020-21 third kit & release date

Chelsea's third kit has yet to be announced, but full details are expected to be revealed later in July.

Last year the third kit was launched in early September, ahead of the Blues' Champions League group stage campaign. Third kits are often used by elite clubs for European away matches.

There could be an opportunity for Lampard's men to trial the new third kit in their last 16 second leg against Bayern Munich, which the German side are overwhelming favourites having won 3-0 at Stamford Bridge earlier this year.

Chelsea are currently in the running for a Champions League place in 2020-21, but failing that a Europa League spot is all-but-assured given their third-place position with four games to go.

Original author: Goal

Mathare United undergo coronavirus tests ahead of Sofapaka clash

The Spanish outfit has secured the services of the second Super Falcons star from Nigerian top-flight club Rivers Angels

Spanish Reto Iberdrola club Pozoalbense has confirmed the signing of Tochukwu Oluehi from Nigerian side Rivers Angels for the 2020-21 season.

This will bring to an end to the Nigeria international's six-year journey with the Nigeria Women's Premier League champions as she looks to return to Europe with the Reto Iberdrola club.

Oluehi had enjoyed stints at Belarusian side Bobruichanka Bobruisk, where she debuted in the Uefa Champions League in 2013, before turning out for Norwegian Toppserien club Medkila in 2016.

The 33-year-old played for Nigerian clubs Bayelsa Queens, before Sunshine Queens, and later Rivers Angels, who she helped to four domestic titles since 2014 amidst a move to Norway.

On the global level, she played thrice at the Women's World Cup, the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, the 2007 African Games and four Africa Women's Cup of Nations, which she won three times.

Her biggest career highlights were her three saves from the spot to help the Super Falcons claim the 2018 Awcon in Ghana and the same feat with Rivers Angels to win the 2018 Federation Cup.

Having agreed to terms with Pozoalbense, she becomes the ninth signing for Manuel Fernandez's side as they continue bolstering the ranks in their quest for a Spanish top-flight slot next season. 

Confirming her signing, the club announced with huge excitement, saying: "It is a complete guarantee of safety under the sticks, thanks to its placement, know-how and experience. 

"She has enormous cold blood at decisive moments. He transmits a lot of confidence to the defence as he is a very safe goalkeeper in almost all his interventions.

“She has a lot of personalities and does not hesitate at the exits. She holds up well against one-on-one moves and has leadership skills.

"She hardly ever gets complicated. Her winning mentality will make her one of the best goalkeepers in the category. 

"She is always attentive to the movements of the opponents because she has a great intuition to read the plays.”

Adding his views, head coach Fernandez, whose side finished seventh last season, also spoke on how valuable the Super Falcons goalkeeper will be to his team.

"This is a goalkeeper who brings experience and security to the team," he stated. “It is essential to have that position with a player as a veteran and of such quality as Tochukwu Oluehi."

Aside from Oluehi, Pozoalbense earlier signed Naomi Vagre, Nora de Torres, Bruna Tavares, Sana Guermazi, Laura Vazquez, Ayaka Noguchi and compatriot Evelyn Nwabuoku.

Her move swells the list of Nigerians to ply their trades in Spain next season to seven after Asisat Oshoala, Peace Efih, Toni Payne, Chidinma Okeke, Adule Charity, Rita Chikwelu and Nwabuoku.

 

Original author: Samuel Ahmadu

Lack of leadership halting Manchester United in their search for silverware

The Red Devils boss was seen talking to the Bournemouth defender after the 5-2 victory for his side in their last match

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has denied he was lining up a transfer for Nathan Ake to join Manchester United after he was spotted chatting to the centre-back after the 5-2 win at Old Trafford last week.

Television cameras captured the United manager having a conversation with the Bournemouth defender at the final whistle, with some claiming he had said to the Dutchman that he needed a left-footed central defender.

But Solskjaer has denied saying anything of the sort, telling reporters ahead of his side's trip to Aston Villa on Thursday: "I've got seven centre-backs, I don't know where that's come from. We're fine."

Leicester’s draw with Arsenal on Tuesday night means it is now in United’s hands to finish in the top four as they still have to play Brendan Rodgers' side on the final day of the season.

And Solskjaer believes the Red Devils will have to win each of their remaining five games to guarantee a lucrative Champions League spot.

"There are so many games, if we win every single one we're in the top four," Solskjaer explained. "We cannot rely on help from anyone else, we have to do it ourselves and go into next season to put other challenges to teams."

The win against Bournemouth saw United reach 16 games unbeaten in all competitions, giving the squad confidence going into the final few weeks of the season.

"As a footballer you know you can't just pick out confidence from the fridge, you have to have it from every day in training and results matter," he said.

"The last 16 games unbeaten gives us confidence but nowhere near what a Manchester United team should stride towards. We focus on the next one and suddenly we're stood there with 16 - that's what we've done."

And despite Villa’s position in the league Solskjaer knows the game against Dean Smith’s side will be a challenge, especially with United target Jack Grealish being a threat.

"I think the last game they caused us some problems, Grealish off the left and [Anwar] El Ghazi on the right," the Norwegian said.

"Grealish scored a fantastic goal, there's been loads said about him and we need to be aware of him. If he's off the left, middle or right, he attracts players to him but there's not just one player in that Villa team, there are a lot of them."

Original author: Charlotte Duncker

The Manchester United team that should start against Fulham

The former Mbarara player reveals why he finally landed at St Marys Kitende and his targets ahead of the new season

Vipers SC new signing Ibrahim Orit has revealed his intentions to help the club to win the trophies and also use it as a stepping stone to professional football in Europe.

The Soroti-born attacking midfielder joined the Venoms last Thursday after agreeing to pen a four-year contract from Mbarara City.

This was after the newly crowned Ugandan Premier League (UPL) champions had tried to sign the player in the previous season but the deal fell through.

Orit has now told the club’s official website what prompted his move to the club, which will take part in the Caf Champions League, and also praised coach Fred Kajoba, whom he described as a father figure for many players in the Ugandan top-flight.

“I am extremely happy to be here as it has always been my dream to play for Vipers. It’s a big club with talented players and a fantastic coach,” Orit told the club’s official website in his first interview after signing the contract.

“In the life of a footballer, you always want to play at the biggest stage, a year ago I wanted to come but it didn’t happen and now that I am here, I want to improve myself too on top of winning titles for the club.”

On whether he was disappointed when the deal fell through in the 2018-19 season, Orit said: “I was disappointed when it didn’t happen, but it was my motivation as it pushed me to work harder. I know my former club still loves me but now that I am here, I cannot wait to get started.”

Asked on what he wants to achieve with the club, Orit explained: “Vipers is a winning team and joining when they’re champions, brings another dimension. Therefore, I won’t rest on my laurels as I have to continue with the team’s winning mentality. Further to that, I am eyeing a professional career after Vipers.”

Orit also said he was looking forward to working with Kajoba, who initiated the move to have him play for Vipers.

“[Kajoba] is a good coach who at times takes it to the level of acting as a father and I have already experienced it with him at the national team,” Orit continued. “I expect a good working relationship with him here at Vipers.”

When asked if he had messages for the Venom fans, Orit answered in the positive: “I know they rate me highly after my good times with Mbarara City. Therefore, I will do my best to keep up the standards and make them happy.

“Sincerely, football cannot be enjoyable without fans hence their involvement is very key. In that regard, I promise to work very hard to always make them happy.”

Original author: Dennis Mabuka

Nnadozie: Nigeria goalkeeper makes losing debut for Paris FC against PSG

The England international chased a supporter into the crowd at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium following their penalty shoot-out loss to Norwich

Eric Dier has been banned for four games after he jumped into the crowd to confront a supporter after Tottenham's FA Cup fifth-round loss to Norwich.

The defensive midfielder jumped over the advertising hoardings and into the stands to chase down the fan following the penalty shoot-out loss in March, with footage of the incident going viral on social media.

The ban comes into play with immediate effect, and the England international has also been fined £40,000.

According to the FA, Dier had admitted improper conduct but had said that his actions were not aggressive - a claim which was dismissed by the English football authority.

The FA said on Twitter: "The Tottenham Hotspur player admitted that his actions at the conclusion of a fixture against Norwich City in The FA Cup on 4 March 2020 were improper but denied that they were also threatening.

"An independent Regulatory Commission subsequently found Eric Dier’s actions to be threatening."

Dier climbed up the stands at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium before being pulled away by stewards following Spurs' loss to the Canaries.

He was attempting to confront a supporter who was believed to have been involved in a row with his brother, with his actions prompting a mixed response from the world of football.

Some sympathised with the player considering the abuse faced from some fans, while others felt he should have kept his cool.

Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho criticised Dier immediately following the incident, although he later said he did not expect the club to punish Dier on top of the FA investigation.

“I don’t think that belongs to the game. The game was a fantastic representation of the FA Cup, but I cannot run away from the question," Mourinho said.

"I think Eric Dier did what we as professionals cannot do but when someone insults you and your family is involved, especially your young brother...”

Mourinho later said: "I don't know the answer [as to whether he will be disciplined]. The only thing I can say is that, if the club does, it's not because I want it.

"I am with the player. I believe that the club is also with the player. So I believe there is no action from us. One thing is conversations, sharing ideas, another thing is going in that direction, which I don't think we as a club want to go."

Spurs were beaten at home by the Premier League's bottom club on penalties after the game had finished 1-1 after extra time.


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