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Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold has been named the PFA Young Player of the Year.

Alexander-Arnold beat out a host of strong contenders for the award, including Manchester United pair Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood; Chelsea's Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount; and Arsenal teenager Bukayo Saka.

Nominees for the award had to be 21 or younger on July 1, 2019.

Alexander-Arnold was a vital part of Liverpool's runaway Premier League title in 2019-20, making 38 appearances in the league and tallying four goals and 13 assists.

The  21-year-old defender was also part of 12 clean sheets as Jurgen Klopp's team ended their 30-year wait for the top-flight title.

Alexander-Arnold broke the all-time Premier League record for assists in a season by a defender, a mark that he had set the previous season with 12.

Tuesday's award was in addition to the Premier League's Young Player of the Season, which Alexander-Arnold won last month to complete a clean sweep of prizes for y.

Alexander-Arnold's 13 assists in 2019-20 was second in the league to Kevin De Bruyne's 20, with Manchester City's Belgian star taking hom the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award on Tuesday.

Alexander-Arnold made his Liverpool breakthrough in 2016-17 and has made 93 Premier League appearances for the Merseyside outfit. As well as the Premier League crown, he has won the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup with Klopp's men.

In women's awards, Chelsea star Bethany England was named PFA Player of the Year, while Manchester City's Lauren Hemp was named the PFA Young Player of the Year.

England won the prize in addition to the Barclays Player of the Season award, which she took home in July after she scored 14 goals in 15 appearances during a breakthrough season in which Chelsea won the Women's Super League title. 

Hemp had already been named the PFA Young Player of the Year once, an award she took home after an impressive season with Bristol City in 2017-18.

The 20-year-old scored five goals and added five assists in the WSL last season as City finished runners-up to Chelsea.

Kevin De Bruyne has beaten four players from Premier League winners Liverpool to claim the Professional Footballers Association (PFA) Player of the Year award.

Fellow professionals voted for the Manchester City playmaker ahead of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jordan Henderson, Sadio Mane and last year's winner Virgil van Dijk despite Liverpool finishing 18 points clear at the top.

Alexander-Arnold did pick up a consolation prize by being named the PFA Young Player of the Year.

De Bruyne, 29, also beat team-mate Raheem Sterling and becomes the first City player to win the award.

“It’s a huge honour," he said. "To be voted for by your colleagues and competitors from other teams who you play against and then for you for best player is amazing.

"It’s strange that I’m the first one at City given all the good players that have played here before and who are still playing here but it’s nice to represent the club.

"I think it is [the ultimate honour to be nominated by fellow professionals] because you compete against them, they want to win the trophies, they want to be the best.

"When they vote for you, and it’s everyone who is voting not just a few players, that means you’ve done really well during the season.”

De Bruyne, who also won the Premier League Player of the Season award, matched Arsenal legend Thierry Henry's record for most assists in a campaign with 20.

He also created the most chances and had the most goal involvements of any player in the Premier League as well as scoring 13 goals.

Asked if it was his best campaign, he said: “I don’t know. I’ve been playing well, trying to be consistent with good performances.

"I don’t go too much up and down, this is something that happens especially at the beginning of your career.

"I’m a little bit older now. I’m used to what I can do and what I can’t do so I just think I’m helping my team to win games and if you do that then people will vote for you I guess.”

Despite winning the Premier League title four times in the past nine seasons, a City player has never won the award before, while Liverpool have had three winners in the past seven years.

“There have been many great players in this club’s history, especially over the last decade working with Roberto [Mancini], Manuel [Pellegrini] and myself. We have won many titles, but Kevin is the first to receive this prestigious award," City boss Pep Guardiola added 

"This recognition is also a tribute to all the fantastic players who have come before him.

“We are so proud of Kevin and this will only strengthen what he means to this club and our fans. From all the players, coaches and staff at Manchester City, I would like to congratulate him.”

Hearts of Oak defender Nuru Sulley has dispelled rumours of being on his way out of the club five months after signing for the Accra-based outfit.

The former Alanyaspor of Turkey centre-back rejoined the Phobians on a two-year deal in April after a first stint between 2011 and 2014.

Recent media speculation says he is on the verge of cutting his stay, having reportedly received a lucrative offer from a club abroad.

"I was surprised to hear I’m leaving Hearts of Oak. I do not know where the news is coming from. It is astonishing to me," Sulley told Kumasi FM.

"The fans must disregard this and treat it with much contempt.

"I want to at least play this season for Hearts of Oak, win the league and reach the group stages of the Champions League."

In 2011, Sulley quit Hearts for Libyan outfit Al-Nasr Benghazi before later transferring to Tala'ea El Gaish in Egypt.

He was then signed by Libyan fold Al-Ittihad Tripoli, from where he moved Turkish club Alanyaspor for a two-year spell between 2015 and 2017.

"We have not received any proposal for Nuru Sulley as speculated," Hearts chief executive officer Frederick Moore told Oyerepa FM.

"All that came in was before the lockdown which was an invitation for a trial but we have not heard from the club again.

"The player is aware and the board is also in the known."

Sulley has not been the only Hearts player reported to be heading out as striker Kofi Kordzi has been said to have received a strong offer from Qatari side Al-Sailiya.

”I heard about it [Kordzi's offer] even before the transfer news came out, I am aware there are talks ongoing," Sulley told Atinka TV on his teammate's situation.

"What I say is we are all playing football because of money and time is running out for us.

”So I think if indeed something like this has come in Kofi’s way, I will plead with management to consider his family and allow him to go."

Kordzi scored six league goals in 14 games for Hearts last season.

"Hearts board want the striker [Kodzi] to stay, we will do our best but if he wants to go, we will allow him," Moore told Oyerepa FM.

”The proposal didn’t quote any figure but in negotiating with them, that was where the $200,000 [€169,711being speculated around] came in.

”We have met the player to extend his contract and this was when this proposal came in. We will do what is best for the club and the player as well.”

Hearts are the second most successful club in the history of the Ghana Premier League. 

The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has announced a major deal in partnering with the Bundesliga for the next two seasons.

According to a statement from the state broadcaster and the German association, the deal has been signed and sealed for the 2020/21 and 2021/22 campaigns.

The deal becomes the biggest one for the embattled national television company as they have been televising the English Premier League on SABC 3.

"There has been an enormous amount of effort that has gone into making this deal happen and we are very happy to partner with the DFL in bringing football from one of the world’s best leagues to viewers right across the country," SABC sport general manager Gary Rathbone confirmed.

"The Bundesliga is a very attractive football proposition and South Africans will now get an open window through which to watch some of the game’s most iconic football rivalries, in a league displaying exquisite technique and an abundance of passion, from one of the world’s great football nations."

Apart from the matches being shown on SABC 3, the games are also set to be televised on the SABC Sport portal for live streaming.

The Auckland Park-based organization confirmed the news that they have clinched Free-to-Air broadcasting rights on Tuesday.

In the midst of their financial struggles, the state broadcaster recently televised the FA Cup final, where Chelsea faced eventual champions Arsenal at Wembley Stadium.

Meanwhile, the news will be welcomed by the SABC viewers as they have been starved of Premier Soccer League (PSL) football of late.

The 2020/21 Bundesliga season is scheduled to start on Friday, September 18 and the German and European champions, Bayern Munich, will get start their title defence campaign against Schalke 04 at the Allianz Arena.

Dean Henderson is prepared to do “whatever it takes” to come out on top in a goalkeeping battle with David de Gea and nail down Manchester United’s No.1 spot, says the 23-year-old’s agent.

After taking in two productive loan spells at Sheffield United, a promising shot-stopper has been absorbed back into the fold at his parent club.

A new contract has been signed at Old Trafford, while further senior international recognition has been received in the latest England squad.

Henderson’s star is definitely on the rise, but his progress may be stunted in 2020-21 if he fails to secure regular game time.

Spain international De Gea – a four-time Player of the Year at United – is blocking the path of an ambitious performer, but David Lee says said challenge is about to be embraced.

Henderson’s representative told Sports Mole when quizzed on whether a breakthrough can be made with the Red Devils: “I don't think they're offering him a five-year deal without thinking that he can.

“Obviously you've got a world-class goalkeeper as number one for Manchester United. He's made a few mistakes, let's be fair, but he's still a top, top goalkeeper, still a world-class goalkeeper.

“Maybe Henderson coming in might make De Gea raise his game and there are two ways to look at it for Man United, but he's got the potential to be Man United goalkeeper for sure.

“He's another player who believes he should be playing for Man United right now, so it's not going to faze him, he'll just rise to that.

“There are some players that, when you think of them playing for a big club you worry about them - can they take that pressure every week? But Dean would have no problem with that, he's a confident boy.

“He's ready, he wants to push people. I'm sure they're good friends in training and have a good working relationship but Dean will be focused on getting that number one spot that's for sure and he'll do whatever it takes to get it.”

Henderson, who kept 13 clean sheets in 36 Premier League outings for Sheffield United last season, has made no secret of the fact that he intends to become the first-choice shot-stopper for club and country at some stage in the near future.

Manchester United midfielder Dylan Levitt has agreed to join Charlton Athletic on a season-long loan deal, while James Garner is in talks with Huddersfield Town.

Nineteen-year-old Levitt will spend the season at the League One side to gain more first-team experience, with him having made his senior debut for Wales in their 1-0 win over Finland last week.

He has since been in London sorting out his move for the 2020-21 campaign and he will become the fourth United player to be sent out on loan ahead of the new season. 

Winger Tahith Chong has already been impressing at Werder Bremen, while midfielder Aliou Traore has moved to French side Caen. Goalkeepers Joel Pereira and Matej Kovar, meanwhile, have moved to Huddersfield and Swindon Town respectively.

And Pereira might not be the only United player at Huddersfield next season as midfielder Garner continues talks with the Championship side.

Garner, who made three starts for the first team in the Europa League last season, played in the Under-23s' friendly against the Terriers on August 29 and chatted with head coach Carlos Corberan ahead of the game.

It is understood that talks are continuing and the 19-year-old is edging closer to a season-long loan move away. Blackburn and Millwall have also shown an interest in the highly-rated England youth international who needs a test higher than Premier League 2 this season.

Under-23s manager Neil Wood is expecting to have a very young side in the 2020-21 season and while the majority of loan deals have now been agreed, it’s possible that another couple could go through before the October 16 deadline, with there being interest in Ethan Laird and Di’Shon Bernard.

Teden Mengi has impressed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and pushed into the first-team set-up over lockdown, and it is understood the centre-back will be staying at Old Trafford for another season to continue his development there.

"I think if they’re not going to be around the first team and involved in that then the natural next step is to go out on loan and go and show how good they are," Wood told Goal.

"It wouldn’t be right to keep them in the 23s for another season just to bolster the squad or because we’ve gone up a league and we’ll be playing tougher opposition, that wouldn’t make sense to hold them back in their career."

Twente right-back Tyronne Ebuehi is eager to return to the Nigeria national team after recovering from a career-threatening injury.

The 24-year-old signed for Portuguese giants Benfica following his showings for the Super Eagles at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

The defender was one of the standout performers for Nigeria as they were eliminated in the group stage of the global tournament.

Ebuehi, however, ruptured his cruciate knee ligaments in July 2018 and subsequently missed the whole of 2018-19 season.  

The former ADO Den Haag right-back was also not part of the Super Eagles team that finished third at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.

Ebuehi, who recently joined Twente on loan to reignite his career, has appreciated the support he received during his difficult period and now looks forward to rejoining his Super Eagles teammates.

"I saw every game. It wasn't easy for me. I always wanted to be with the team and play in my first Nations Cup," Ebuehi BBC Sport. 

"For me, international breaks is always special, the friendships I've made and formed with the coaching and backroom staff, teammates and everyone in Nigeria.

"I was very proud. I miss that a lot but life is life. I was happy to see them play the way they did, unfortunately, we didn't win but I know better days will come for us and more success. I cannot wait to be a part of the team again.

"Of course teammates, the coach, the staff and even the fans were in touch. I spoke with a lot of my teammates.

"William Troost-Ekong is like a big brother who never stopped giving me the necessary support. They've all been incredibly nice to me and I appreciate that.

"I can't thank the Nigerian fans enough. I don't check my social media messages every day but once in a while I do and I see some amazing and incredible messages.

"So many people praying and wishing me well despite being away for two years. I will continue to be grateful for the support I get."

Ebuehi explains he is now fully fit, raring to return to action and prove his worth for Twente in the Eredivisie.

"The last two years have shown me that everything happens for a reason in life," he continued.

"This big injury and difficulty with my rehab - I think it's a big test and God wanted to show how strong I am. I think I've passed that test.

"I have never invested so much of myself in training like I have done this past five months. I was always the one who wanted to do more than others. Honestly, this year I've done everything I could to be as much as I can.

"I'm thankful for the opportunity and the chance with Twente to show myself again and the player I am now. I believe I am a stronger, more physical and better player than I was before the injury.

"I don't like to talk too much, I want my feet to do the talking. This year is an opportunity to show that the last two years was just bad luck and no more injury will come. I know all the other things will follow and come naturally with hard work."

Ebuehi will hope to deliver convincing performances at Twente to boost his chances of returning to the Super Eagles. 

Sevilla's director of football Monchi has played down any hope of signing Manchester United-linked defender Sergio Reguilon, while also denying holding transfer talks with Chelsea's Marcos Alonso.

Reguilon has only just returned to Real Madrid after an impressive loan spell at Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium in 2019-20.

The 23-year-old took in 36 appearances for Sevilla across all competitions, scoring three goals and providing four assists to help Julen Lopetegui's side finish fourth in La Liga and win the Europa League.

Despite proving himself on both domestic and European stages in Andalucia, it has been reported that he will not figure in Zinedine Zidane's plans in Madrid when the new season kicks off later this month.

The Spain international opened the door to a possible move away from Madrid prior to the international break, telling Radio Marca: "I'm going day by day.

"Obviously, Real Madrid is my home, but it's not easy... I'm bearing everything in mind."

Several high-profile potential suitors have been credited with an interest in Reguilon in recent weeks, including Premier League duo United and Tottenham, while Sevilla have been tipped to try and bring him back to the club.

Monchi says that, although the talented left-back would be welcomed back into Lopetegui's squad with open arms, Sevilla are not in a strong enough financial position to broker a permanent transfer at this moment in time.

The 51-year-old said: “Regarding the issue of Reguilon, I already said it, we would love to have him here but it is complicated because there are very strong rivals with whom we are not in a position to fight financially.

“We are in a health and economic crisis, so we are going to put it down when it comes to talking about quantities, luckily it has caught us in a good circumstance, but the crisis also affects Sevilla FC.

"We are making the investments that we believe are appropriate to strengthen the squad.”

Sevilla have also been heavily linked with Alonso, whose place in Chelsea's starting XI is likely to come under serious threat following Ben Chilwell's arrival from Leicester.

However, Monchi insists that no contact between the two clubs has been made as of yet, as he added: "Sevilla have not made any approach for Marcos Alonso."

Ugandan Premier League (UPL) side Uganda Revenue Authority (URA FC) have completed the signing of goalkeeper Hannington Sebwalunyo from Maroons FC.

The custodian has been a consistent player for the two-time league champions, something that attracted the attention of the Tax Collectors who made haste in acquiring his services.

"Hannington Sebwalunyo penned a three-year contract with URA FC," the four-time champions tweeted on Tuesday, September 8.

Maroons were relegated in the abandoned 2019/20 UPL season, and the Taxmen jumped in to buy his remaining contract worth Ush 13 million. The shot-stopper took to his Facebook account to bid his former team farewell.

"Today I say goodbye to a magnificent club as it is Maroons Football Club (Uganda prisons)," Sebwalunyo posted.

"I thank the club for helping me become a better footballer and for making me feel at home during my stay at the club."

The player has gone on to appreciate his former side for giving him a chance for development. 

"A year back, Maroons gave me an amazing opportunity to play for them and achieved what we achieved," he added.

"After this I can only say thank you to the club, coaching staff, and the fans that supported me since the day I wore the club's jersey and of course thank you and good luck to my teammates who helped me settle in since day one, not only as teammates but as friends.

"Today I say goodbye to Maroons FC, but I take with me many memories, lessons, and great moments that will live with me forever.

"At last I wish Maroons success for the future and thank the club for giving me the opportunity to push on in my career.

"Thank you."  

Recently, the top tier side completed the signing of Jackson Nunda ahead of the new season.

The former KCCA player was unveiled as the first signing for the Tax Collectors ahead of the new season which will kick-off in October. Nunda was signed from KCCA, where he has been for four and a half years.  

The Namboole-based side are keen on adding more players in preparations for the 2020/21 campaign.

On-loan Benfica right-back Tyronne Ebuehi is delighted to bounce back after suffering a knee injury which kept him out of action for two years.

The 24-year-old defender teamed up with the Estadio da Luz outfit following his standout performances for Nigeria at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

The Super Eagles right-back, however, ruptured his cruciate knee ligaments in July 2018 which has prevented him from playing a competitive game for the Eagles.

Ebuehi has now recovered from the injury problem and subsequently returned to the Netherlands, where he was born, joining Twente this summer on a season-long loan.

"It's been a long period out and a hard time for me. Of course, questions like 'could this be the end?' can pop up from time to time," Ebuehi told BBC Sport.

"You sometimes hear that with this type of major injuries players never return to the same level they were before the injury.

"It was difficult in the beginning I can't lie about that. To be away from the only country you have ever known, where you're born and away from your family and friends. You feel alone knowing it was just no longer possible for them to just pass by.

"It's changed me a lot. Not only as a player but as a person. Away in another country being alone. Sometimes it's like unseen tears of frustration because of the mental pain.

"Like I always tell my family and friends now, that I'm thankful to God for this type of hard lessons sometimes in life.

"It really made me aware of a lot of things, like how to take care of my body now. How things can happen in football, how to deal with them. I'm thankful for the lessons that God gave me.

"Going forward in my career, I know how to take care of myself and what's good for me, how to handle any future injuries, hopefully, it will not happen.

"I missed the entire 2018/19 season because of this difficult injury, but I'm happy that I'm fit now and I'm thankful that I am able to play the game that I love again.

"Twente have given me the chance to show that the last two years was unfortunate bad luck. It would be convenient for some people to write me off but others know better."

"I know the type of person and player that I am. I've always been that person and player that works hard, always did extra and a bit more than my teammates.

"So once I suffered this injury, it was the same mindset that I retained to enable me to get back stronger from my injury. Yes, things didn't go the way they should've gone for me, it took a long time.

"But one thing I've always been doing these last two years was to keep working hard. That's how I was raised and taught by my parents.

"From the start of the year, I have invested so much in myself to be as fit as possible. My family and friends supported me by coming around as much as possible. I'm thankful for having them in my life. This situation makes you appreciate life.

Ebuehi could make his long-awaited return to competitive football when Twente take on Fortuna Sittard in their opening game of the season on September 12.

Former Bidvest Wits skipper Thulani Hlatshwayo says he is grateful to have spent six years with the club, and it was heartbreaking to play their last match against Polokwane City last weekend.

‘Tyson’ joined the Clever Boys from Ajax Cape Town in 2014 and managed to bag his first Premier Soccer League (PSL) gold medal with Wits, and revealed how he will always cherish the moments he spent in Braamfontein.

The Soweto-born centre-back is linked with a move to Orlando Pirates and is reportedly set to be unveiled this week, but has refused to address the links.

“It was a sad feeling when the guys played their last game against Polokwane. There were a lot of emotions around the team,” Hlatshwayo told South African Football Journalists Association.

“I’ve been here for six years. So, when we played the last match, it wasn’t a good mood nor space to be in.

“The league title that I won at Wits was my first trophy. And I am grateful that the team was interested in me and invested.

“All I can say is that I appreciate everything that the club has done. I am happy that I chose Wits when I came back home after leaving at a young age.”

Speaking about the relationship with the club’s hierarchy led by Jonathan Schloss, Hlatshwayo added that the partnership was a good one for him.

“Our relationship with Wits has worked well with the trophies I won with them and being the captain, to win those trophies was wonderful,” he added.

“I’ve had a good journey with Wits, coming from Ajax Cape Town. There was a season that we missed out on the title to Pirates, while I was at Ajax, but those moments made me gain experience."

The Clever Boys have reportedly also parted ways with winger Deon Hotto, who is set to be unveiled by coach Josef Zinnbauer's troops while coach Gavin Hunt looks set to replace Ernst Middendorp at Kaizer Chiefs.

With the 2017/18 Telkom Knockout Cup champions having finished fourth on the log, they have also parted ways with goalkeeper Ricardo Goss, midfielder Haashim Domingo, and striker Gift Motupa.

A former Polokwane City player known to Goal has expressed mixed reactions about the club’s relegation to the National First Division (NFD).

The overseas-based campaigner has also lashed out that the management style employed by the club chairman Johnny Mogaladi, particularly about the treatment of the players and the staff.

Despite having players such as skipper Jabulani Maluleke and Clinton Larsen’s coaching acumen, Rise and Shine finished at the bottom of the table with 25 points from 30 matches.

“I saw the results, it was very disappointing to see the Limpopo-based teams all flirting with relegation, Polokwane City got relegated, Black Leopards are in the play-offs now and if Baroka didn’t rescue that point against Kaizer Chiefs...” the former player said when speaking to Goal.

“They would have also been there. So, aside from the way the owner [Mogaladi] runs the club, the way the owner treats his players and staff, it didn’t surprise to see them there [relegated].

“The only thing that surprised me is that they hadn’t got there in the previous seasons. I think he [Mogaladi] was fortunate he had such a group of good players there, that didn’t mind what was going on in the background and they just got down to business and play the football on the field.”

On whether he feels any pain for the club, the unnamed player said he shares their worry as they face an uncertain future.

“So, I don’t think I’m the best guy to answer how I feel about Polokwane City getting relegated. I’m sad for the players because I still have friends at the club,” he added.

“I’m still friends with quite a few of the coaching staff. So, it’ very disappointing to see that but on the other hand, the manner in which the club is run. You know, above the coaching and the technical team - it didn’t surprise me.

“That’s my honest opinion and obviously being a boy from Polokwane, I never want to see the teams there losing their PSL statuses because it’ good for the province and it was good for Limpopo football to have many teams in the PSL.”

Meanwhile, media reports suggested that the former Golden Arrows manager was set to meet the chairman on Tuesday to pave the way forward as far as his future is concerned.

On the other hand, Lidoda Duvha are scheduled to face Ajax Cape Town in the PSL/NFD Play-Offs on Wednesday, whilst Bakgaga Ba Mphahlele managed to successfully save their top-flight status.

Tabitha Chawinga was on target once and provided an assist for Jiangsu Suning as they defeated Shandong Sports Lottery 4-1 in a Chinese Women's Super League encounter on Tuesday.

The 24-year-old made her fourth start in six appearances this season for Jiangsu and has maintained her impressive goalscoring momentum for the champions, scoring four goals in five matches.

Smarting from Saturday's 3-0 loss to Shanghai Shengli, Jiangsu were desperate to bounce back to winning ways and Chawinga outmuscled her markers to open the scoring in the 15th minute.

The Malawian raced into the area through the left wing before sending a low pass into the middle for onrushing Ni Mengjie to double the lead for Jiangsu six minutes later.

After the break, Li Ying was tripped inside the box to earn a penalty for Shandong but her resulting kick from the spot was saved by Jiangsu goalkeeper Peng Shimeng in the 49th minute.

Three minutes later, Jiangsu found a breakthrough from the middle and He Wei was right in the position to net the third of the match.

Tabitha breezed into the area before making a pass but a handball from Shandong defender gifted Jiangsu a penalty which Ni Mengjie converted for her brace in the 59th minute.

However, Shandong grabbed their consolation goal from the match when goalkeeper Shimeng mistakenly parried a high ball into her own net eight minutes from time.

Chawinga, who was in action from the start to the finish of the game for Jiangsu, has now scored five goals in six matches this season.

The win means Jiangsu are back in third with 12 points from six matches and they will face Jiangsu Suning will take on Changchun Dazhong in their next Chinese league match on Saturday.

One of the biggest events in the FIFA calendar is the date when EA Sports releases the ratings for the new game.

Fans are eager to see which players are ranked in the top 100 and who can come close to Lionel Messi as the highest-rated player in the game.

This year is no different despite the launch date of FIFA 21 being delayed until October 9 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Gamers are eager to see which players have received the highest overall scores in FIFA 21 so they can begin to plan their FIFA Ultimate Team for the new release.

When are the FIFA 21 ratings revealed?

The top 100 player ratings for FIFA 21 will be revealed on Thursday, September 10 at 4pm UK time.

Following the release of the highest-rated players in the game, EA Sports will count down towards FIFA 21 by releasing other important player countdowns, such as the quickest players in FIFA 21, the full list of players with five-star skills, and much more.

In addition, the top 20 players from each of the top five leagues will also be revealed in individual lists, which always proves intriguing for Ultimate Team fans.

Who will be the highest rated players in FIFA 21?

For the past few years, Lionel Messi has been the highest rated player in FIFA. This is expected to be the case again in FIFA 21, with fans wondering if he will be able to keep his overall 94 rating from last season.

Cristiano Ronaldo has come closest to Messi in recent editions, even being rated the same as the Argentine in FIFA 19 when the Juventus forward was the cover star.

However, since EA Sports lost the rights to use Juventus's real name, Messi has moved clear of Ronaldo in the game.

This year it is expected to be the same, but there will be plenty of interest to see who is regarded as the third-best player in FIFA 21 following strong years from Kylian Mbappe, Neymar and Robert Lewandowski.

Which players will be upgraded in FIFA 21?

Many players had breakout seasons in 2019-20, but nobody probably had the same stunning rise as Erling Haaland who shone for Red Bull Salzburg before starring for Borussia Dortmund.

The Norway international is expected to receive a huge boost to his rating from FIFA 20 where he was rated at 68 overall. Haaland will likely be one of the game's best strikers this year.

Other players set to receive big upgrades include Mason Greenwood, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka.

Alisson is the “perfect” goalkeeper for Liverpool as he “has this aura around him” and “no weak points”, says former Reds player Sander Westerveld.

A Brazil international was taken to Anfield as part of a record-setting £65 million ($85m) deal with Roma in the summer of 2018.

Jurgen Klopp was crying out for a reliable No.1 at that stage, with Simon Mignolet and Loris Karius having failed to convince between the posts.

Alisson slotted seamlessly into the fold, winning the Champions League crown and Premier League Golden Glove in his debut campaign.

A domestic title triumph followed in 2019-20, with a South American shot-stopper proving to be a final piece in a trophy-winning puzzle for Liverpool.

The 27-year-old is now firmly established as one of the finest exponents of his chosen position in the global game, with Westerveld among those to have hailed the many qualities he brings to the fold for club and country.

A man who once provided Liverpool’s last line of defence told Planet Football of a star turn in the present: “Alisson is one of the best in the world.

“To do that you have to be good at everything and have no weak points. You have to dominate your box and have great reflexes.

“He’s big and he has this aura around him. He has confidence and the way he plays out with his feet is just amazing to watch. There are only a few goalkeepers at the moment who are so complete.

“Great goalkeepers make saves in decisive moments, not when you’re losing 4-0. He makes saves when you’re winning 1-0 and that wins you the game.

“I think he’s the perfect goalkeeper for Liverpool right now.”

Alisson forms part of a new breed that are redefining the art of goalkeeping.

Westerveld admits as much, with the Dutchman conceding that the demands of the role have changed “dramatically” since he first donned a pair of gloves.

A man who spent two-and-half years at Anfield between the summer of 1999 and December 2001 added: “When I started in 1992, they changed the back-pass rule.

“That changed things dramatically because you had to be better with your feet. I was alright because I was a striker when I was younger, which gave me an advantage with that rule. I was well-known for my kicking.

“Goalkeepers are fitter, more powerful and can jump higher. You have to play like an outfield player, so your team always have an extra man. If you do that well, it gives your team so much confidence.

“They play more on the ground and you don’t see goalkeepers kicking the ball long to the strikers like we used to.”

Lucy Bronze has returned to Manchester City, signing from Lyon on a two-year deal.

The England full-back left City back in 2017 to join the French giants, going on to win nine trophies in her three years there. This season, Bronze helped the club achieve yet another European treble, starring in the 3-1 win over Wolfsburg in the Women's Champions League final.

Now, the 28-year-old is back in Manchester and back at the club where she won the Women's Super League, the Continental Cup and the FA Women's Cup between 2014 and 2017.

“I’m really happy to be back here at City – I always had it in my mind that I would return one day, and it just feels like the perfect time and opportunity right now," she said.

“I really enjoyed my time in France, but there were so many things that I missed and it’s great to be back.

“I feel like I’m returning as a better leader and person, who is capable of bringing similar success to the table here in England – both domestically with City and internationally too.

“Having already experienced everything that City have to offer as a club, it was a no-brainer for me when the offer came in and there isn’t another team in England that I would have looked at.

“There’s nowhere I’d rather be right now than with Manchester City and I’m really excited to see what the future holds with the exciting squad we have here.”

Bronze is City's fourth summer signing, following Chloe Kelly , Sam Mewis and Rose Lavelle through the door. Her arrival underlines again just what a fantastic transfer window it has been so far for new head coach Gareth Taylor.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to see Lucy return to Manchester City and I’m sure I speak on behalf of everyone when I say that we’re delighted to have her back at the club," Taylor said.

“She is an unrivalled talent and her endless individual and team awards only scratch the surface of what a superb player she is, not only at club level, but also internationally with England.

“She joins us off the back of a hugely successful few years in France and being able to add a player of her quality to our already ambitious squad is incredibly exciting."

Bronze will wear the No.20 shirt for City and is in line to make her first appearance for the club in three years this weekend, at home to Brighton, subject to international clearance.

Zesco United have sealed the signing of midfielder Kelvin Kampamba from Nkana FC.

“Zesco United is delighted to announce the signing of Kelvin Kampamba from Nkana,” the club revealed on their official website.

“The Zambian international midfielder has signed a two-year pre-contract agreement with the eight-times Super League Champions subject to completing medicals.”

Zesco United technical chairman Peter Mutale confirmed the arrival of the player by stating: “Kampamba has signed a pre-contract agreement with Zesco after agreeing on personal terms with the club. Kampamba’s contract with us will come into effect on 1st January 2021 after seeing off the remaining four months of his contract with Nkana.”

Mutale has also described Kampamba as an exciting player who will bring creativity and depth to the midfield of Team ya Ziko.

“Kelvin will bring a new dimension in the midfield, especially creativity. A combination of Ching’andu, Tafadzwa, Kamusoko, and now Kampamba will be a lethal attacking system for the club.

“Our aim is to sign quality players because its only quality that will bring success to the club. We have brought in these players to send a big statement of intent to return in Caf and to reclaim the league title.”

On signing for Zesco, Kampamba said: “It’s not an easy thing to move from Nkana to Zesco but I know that I am joining a big football club. It is unfortunate that we are not going to represent Zambia in the Caf competitions.

“I am here to help the team reclaim the title and qualify for Caf competitions. I am very excited to join Zesco because this is a team that I have admired for some time.

“Our fans should expect more goals and assists from me. My mission here is to see this club win more titles. As such I will be working tirelessly to ensure that this is achieved.”

The 23-year-olf started his career at Miseshi Blue Stars Soccer Academy in Kitwe. In 2012, Kapamba spent six-months at Kitwe United before joining Lime Hotspurs, whom he helped to win promotion to the Super League.

Kampamba finally burst onto the domestic scene in 2013 after signing for Nkana. In 2015, the young midfielder made a switch to Nkana’s cross-town rivals, Power Dynamos where he spent three years before returning to the Wusakile boys in 2018.

He becomes the third signing for the club after Lazarus Phiri from Green Eagles and Bruce Musakanya from Red Arrows.

Zesco United is also the home of three Kenyan players - goalkeeper Ian Otieno, striker Jesse Were and defender David Owino.

Luis Suarez has Juventus “DNA” and would have no problem slotting in alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at the Serie A champions, says former Barcelona director Ariedo Braida.

A move to Italy is being mooted for the Uruguayan frontman amid efforts at Camp Nou to freshen up the squad.

Ronald Koeman is said to have informed Suarez that he does not figure in his long-term plans, paving the way for a prolific 33-year-old striker to head elsewhere.

Juve are not about to let that opportunity pass them by, with the Bianconeri moving quickly to make their interest known in a proven performer.

It could be that Suarez is taken to Turin to partner 35-year-old Ronaldo, with the Italian giants leaning heavily on experience.

Braida believes that could be a positive for Andrea Pirlo’s side, with there every reason to believe that Suarez – who has previously starred for Ajax and Liverpool – will be a success story in new surroundings.

A man who worked at Camp Nou until August 2019 and previously spent several years in Serie A as general manager at AC Milan, told Tuttosport of the Suarez speculation: “I'm not surprised about his Barcelona exit because football is about cycles.

“Even Cristiano Ronaldo left Real Madrid because he felt his time there was over.

“Suarez is a fighter and his battling spirit infects the rest of his teams. He has character and the DNA to play for Juventus and other big clubs.

“If he is motivated, he'll be a strong signing even at 33 years of age.”

Quizzed on whether the South American can thrive alongside a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, Braida added: “He won't have problems playing with Ronaldo.

“They'll understand each other perfectly because they're two natural winners.”

Suarez has spent the last six years on the books at Barcelona, registering 198 goals through 283 appearances.

He has struck up a formidable partnership with Lionel Messi down the years, but could soon be paired with the Argentine’s eternal rival in Turin - with Juve looking to move Gonzalo Higuain out as they clear the path for another frontman to be acquired.

Uganda international Farouk Miya has revealed some of the targets he wants to achieve with his club Konyaspor in Turkey.

Miya had a good season, managing 24 appearances in Turkey’s top-flight where he scored eight goals to help Konyaspor retain their Premier League status.

The attacking midfielder has now revealed what he plans to achieve next season, including winning top honours with the club when the season kicks off with the Turkish Super Lig starts on September 11, but Miya and Konyaspor launch their season on September 19 against Genclerbirligi.

“I want to keep working hard and try to win some honours,” Miya is quoted by New Vision. “I believe with hard work and determination; we'll be able to achieve success. We want to please our fans and take a higher position in the league table.”

On why he had an impressive time last season, Miya said: “I always put God first in everything I did. Then, I kept working harder every day to improve on different aspects of my game.”

On scoring two goals against the league leaders Istanbul Basaksehir, Miya explained: “It felt really good because we had put in so much work in the build-up to that match.”

On his experience in the Turkish Super Lig, Miya said: “I have had a wonderful experience so far here. But my best feeling has been playing for a coach [Bilent Korkmaz] who believes in my abilities.”

Miya also admitted he had gathered enough experience having played for Standard Liege, Royal Excel, Sebail, Gorica, and now Konyaspor.

“I have learnt so much. I have learnt that you just have to keep working hard to achieve your dreams even though other people don't believe you,” Miya continued.

On being a product of Kampala Junior Team, Miya said: “KJT is a good football project. It has not only helped football develop in the country but it has also exposed the talent around the world.

“The academy competes in so many tournaments [including the World Youth Gothia Cup tournament in China] and this has exposed so many players.

“I always tell them that ‘Always believe in yourself'. I encourage them to consider God first and then keep working hard to be able to achieve your dreams.”