Original author: Jeff Carlisle
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Source: Columbus' Nancy near deal with Celtic
Celtic FC have formally contacted the Columbus Crew regarding the possible hiring of Wilfried Nancy to be their next manager, a source with knowledge of the situation told ESPN.
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If Bayern's clash with Arsenal is an audition to replace Pep Guardiola, ex-City defender and ESPN FC analyst Nedum Onuoha thinks Kompany fits the bill.
Original author: Nedum Onuoha
Soccer is a physically demanding sport that requires a high level of cardiovascular endurance, speed, agility, and muscular strength. A well-structured fitness and conditioning plan is essential for peak performance and injury prevention.
Key Components of Soccer FitnessTo excel in soccer, training must focus on the following core areas:
- Cardiovascular Endurance: The ability to sustain high-intensity running and recover quickly (aerobic and anaerobic capacity).
- Speed and Agility: Quick movements, rapid changes in direction, and acceleration.
- Strength and Power: Muscular force to sprint, jump, and tackle.
- Flexibility and Mobility: Range of motion to prevent injuries and execute proper technique.
A typical soccer conditioning program is broken down into three phases:
1. Pre-SeasonThis phase focuses on building a strong foundation of aerobic fitness, general strength, and sport-specific movements.
Focus Area | Example Drills | Reps/Sets/Duration |
|---|---|---|
Aerobic Base | Long, steady runs (3–5 miles) | 3-4 times per week, |
Strength | Full-body lifts (Squats, Deadlifts, Bench Press) | 3 sets of 8-12 reps |
Agility | Cone drills, Ladder drills, Shuttle runs | 3 sets of 5-8 reps, |
The primary goal is to maintain fitness levels achieved in the pre-season while focusing on game readiness and recovery.
- Intensity of training decreases to prioritize match performance.
- Focus on maintenance: Short, sharp sprints; tactical drills; and light strength work.
- Emphasize recovery protocols (stretching, foam rolling, proper nutrition).
This is a period of active rest and recovery. The goal is to recharge both physically and mentally while preventing complete detraining.
- Engage in low-impact activities (swimming, cycling) to maintain some fitness.
- Address any lingering injuries.
- Focus on flexibility and core strength.
The following workout should be performed on a non-match day. Remember to always warm up before starting any intense session.
Warm-up- 5 minutes of light jogging
- Dynamic stretching (leg swings, hip circles, high knees)
Drill | Description | Sets | Rest Between Sets |
|---|---|---|---|
Acceleration Sprints | 40-yard sprints (focus on explosive start) | 6 | 60 seconds |
"T" Drill | A standardized agility test requiring forward, side, and backward movement | 3 | 90 seconds |
Defensive Shuffles | Lateral movement drills simulating defensive positioning | 4 | 45 seconds |
Injury prevention is paramount for a long and successful season.
- Ensure proper form when lifting weights.
- Always cool down with static stretching after every session.
- Do not neglect your core; strong core muscles stabilize the body and reduce injury risk.
- Get sufficient sleep and proper nutrition to support muscle repair.
FIFA agreed to more Saudi Arabia investment on Monday by announcing up to $1 billion in Saudi-backed stadium financing loans for developing countries.
Original author: ESPN
A settlement has been reached in the class action lawsuit that was filed by fans in the wake of the chaotic 2024 Copa América final between Argentina and Colombia held at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.
Original author: Jeff Carlisle
Everton midfielder Idrissa Gueye was sent off in the 13th minute of their match against Manchester United on Monday for shoving teammate Michael Keane.
Original author: Rob Dawson
Pep Guardiola has admitted he is "embarrassed and ashamed" after his interaction with a television cameraman in the aftermath of Manchester City's defeat to Newcastle United on Saturday.
Original author: Rob Dawson
Jess Fishlock has extended her contract at Seattle Reign until 2026.
Original author: Jeff Kassouf
Cristiano Ronaldo gave another demonstration of his enduring quality by scoring from a bicycle kick for his Saudi Arabian club on Sunday.
Original author: ESPN News Service
Real Betis winger Antony has apologised to his club fans after being sent off for accidentally kicking a rival in the face in Sunday's league draw against Girona.
Original author: Adriana Garcia
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Original author: ESPN
When the USMNT plays in a World Cup, there are always some locks, and always some players who come out of nowhere to start games.
Original author: Ryan O'Hanlon
On Saturday night, Gotham's stars shone brightest when it counted most.
Original author: Jeff Kassouf
Liverpool spent £450 million in the summer to cement their position as England's dominant force. But after 12 games, their title defense is in chaos.
Original author: Mark Ogden
Ronaldo's 954th career goal was one of his best, adding to his collection of stunning acrobatic strikes.
Original author: Chris Wright
A bad season just keeps getting worse for Arne Slot and Liverpool, while Real Madrid also dropped points in a sluggish draw with Elche. Ga Marcotti recaps the weekend.
Original author: Gabriele Marcotti
After nearly joining Spurs in the summer, Eberechi Eze savored his first North London derby with Arsenal by netting a hat trick against their rivals.
Original author: Mark Ogden and James Olley
Vinícius Júnior has expressed his unwillingness to renew his contract with Real Madrid. Transfer Talk has the latest news and rumors.
Original author: ESPN
Cole Palmer will miss a huge week in Chelsea's season after suffering a fractured toe in an accident at home.
Original author: James Olley
Major League Soccer announced the 2026 regular season calendar, featuring a seven-week break to accommodate the FIFA World Cup.
Original author: Lizzy Becherano
Premier League owners have voted to introduce "squad cost ratio" and sustainability measures beginning from next season but rejected an "anchoring" system.
Original author: ESPN
Monterrey are in talks to extend Sergio Ramos' contract which expires at the end of the year.
Original author: Adriana Garcia
Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa said he felt "ashamed" of a 5-1 loss to the United States, but said he would continued in the role through the 2026 World Cup.
Original author: Lizzy Becherano
Marcus Rashford is a doubt for Barcelona's return to Spotify Camp Nou this weekend after missing training with flu on Thursday and Friday.
Original author: Sam Marsden
NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman said Thursday that the NWSL is prepared to do what it takes to keep Washington Spirit and United States forward Trinity Rodman in the league.
Original author: Jeff Carlisle and Jeff Kassouf
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has said it is "impossible to measure" the impact of Diogo Jota's death on his team.
Original author: Beth Lindop
The NWSL Championship on Saturday pits the Washington Spirit vs. Gotham FC. Who is the underdog? Who is the player to watch? Who will win?
Original author: Joseph Lowery and Megan Swanick
It's Friday and a full weekend of action awaits across the soccer calendar. So who better to tee up the best matches than Julien Laurens? In a new weekly feature, he picks out the best of the action ahead.
Original author: Julien Laurens
