Enzo Maresca, the new manager of Chelsea, has expressed his desire to uphold the Blues’ winning legacy and inspire the team’s supporters. Maresca made his formal announcement on Monday as Chelsea’s new manager, and he spoke immediately after. “Any coach’s dream is to work with one of the biggest teams in the world, Chelsea. That is the reason this opportunity excites me so much,” Maresca stated. “I look forward to working with a very talented group of players and staff to develop a team that continues the club’s tradition of success and makes our fans proud.” Mauricio Pochettino, who was…
Author: Oluwaseun samuel
The entrance of the remaining players at the Super Eagles’ camp has been postponed due to the ongoing strike by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). On Monday (today), it was anticipated that players Maduka Okoye, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, and Paul Onuachu will report to camp with their colleagues. The players, who are all in the nation, have not been able to get to Uyo because of the NLC strike, which has caused domestic flights in the nation to be delayed, according to Promise Efoghe, the team’s new media officer. On Monday…
Kylian Mbappe is poised to wear the No.9 jersey at Real Madrid as his preferred numbers are unavailable. The No.9 spot has been vacant since Karim Benzema’s departure last summer. However, Le Parisien suggests this is a temporary arrangement for Mbappe, who typically wears No.7 at club level and No.10 internationally. Currently, Vinicius Jr occupies the No.7 jersey, while Modric wears No.10. With Modric likely extending his contract, Mbappe may have to wait a bit longer. Nonetheless, by the 2025/2026 season, he could inherit the coveted No.10, joining the ranks of legendary players like Luis Figo, Clarence Seedorf, Ricardo Gallego,…
England captain, Harry Kane has urged manager, Gareth Southgate to take Chelsea’s Cole Palmer to Euro 2024. Kane spoke after Palmer scored his first England goal in the 3-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina on Monday. Palmer was recently included in England’s provisional 33-man squad after a sensational first season at Chelsea, where he netted 24 goals and made 13 assists for the Blues. England captain, Harry Kane has urged manager, Gareth Southgate to take Chelsea’s Cole Palmer to Euro 2024. Kane spoke after Palmer scored his first England goal in the 3-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina on Monday.…
Fenerbahce’s new manager, Jose Mourinh, has firmly stated he won’t be chasing players from Roma. Despite leaving the Serie A club in January, the 65-year-old has been associated with some of his former players, like Romelu Lukaku and Paulo Dybala. Nonetheless, Mourinho declared, “I have no interest in the players of my former club, Roma.” He’s focused on clinching the Super Lig title next season, determined to lead Fenerbahce to victory after falling short by just three points.
Steven Gerrard disclosed that he turned to legendary former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson for advice after his dismissal from Aston Villa. The former Liverpool midfielder faced the axe in October 2022 amid Villa’s struggle, winning only two league games and edging towards relegation. Gerrard’s departure paved the way for Unai Emery’s arrival, leading Villa to secure Champions League qualification. Reflecting on the challenging period, Gerrard admitted seeking counsel from others. One significant figure he approached was his former rival, Ferguson. In an interview with the Telegraph, Gerrard recounted their conversation and the wisdom he received. “I am not…
Former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas won’t be making a return to the club as part of incoming manager Enzo Maresca’s coaching staff. Having retired from playing last summer, Fabregas has been gaining coaching experience with Como in Serie B. He initially took charge of Como’s B team and Under-19s, later serving as interim head coach for the first team. Despite not being able to secure the permanent head coach role due to licensing requirements, he remained as an assistant and is now set to take over as head coach as Como moves into Serie A. Fabregas’ recent visit to Chelsea’s…
As Virgil van Dijk approaches his 33rd birthday, speculation arises about his future at Liverpool beyond the upcoming 2024/25 season. Despite his invaluable contributions since joining as the club’s record signing in January 2018, the reality of time dictates that his tenure at the top may not last much longer. Van Dijk’s impact at Liverpool has been immense, featuring prominently in significant achievements such as reaching and winning the Champions League, as well as securing the Premier League title after a three-decade wait. While Van Dijk’s departure is not imminent, preparing for the future is prudent. Here are six potential…
Saudi Pro League CEO Michael Emenalo has acknowledged the personal setback experienced by Jordan Henderson following his departure from Al Ettifaq. Henderson’s move from Liverpool to Saudi Arabia last summer stirred controversy, but after only six months, he opted to join Dutch powerhouse Ajax. In an interview with The Telegraph, Emenalo clarified that Henderson’s exit didn’t reflect negatively on life in Saudi Arabia. He revealed efforts made to convince the midfielder to stay, highlighting Henderson’s positive contributions to Ettifaq and his efforts to adapt to the country and its culture. Emenalo emphasized Henderson’s professionalism and his impressive career, which included…
Manchester United has reportedly made initial contact with Xavi in the wake of his unexpected departure from Barcelona. Just one month after reversing his decision to step down, Xavi saw his contract terminated due to a disagreement with president Joan Laporta over the club’s transfer strategy. Hansi Flick has since been unveiled as his replacement. Xavi has expressed his intention to take a break from management before considering his next move. However, according to AS, Manchester United has already approached him. United officials are currently reviewing the season and will soon decide on the future of current manager Erik ten…
Manchester United players have been advised to brace themselves for significant changes under INEOS leadership, according to OGC Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo, who has first-hand experience of the firm’s impact. INEOS, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, acquired the French club in 2019, subsequently bringing in Todibo from Barcelona a couple of years later. Todibo has been integral to Nice’s efforts to consistently challenge Ligue 1’s top teams. While Nice’s journey under INEOS hasn’t been entirely smooth, with fluctuating league finishes between fifth and ninth place, the club secured a Europa League spot for the 2024/25 season after their latest fifth-place…
Manchester United is eyeing versatile defender Jules Kounde from Barcelona, who can operate at both centre-back and right-back. The Frenchman, valued at €50m (£42.5m), is reportedly open to a departure from Camp Nou. (FootballTransfers) Additionally, Trevoh Chalobah from Chelsea has caught the attention of Manchester United. (Independent) Despite reports of interest from Manchester City, Rodrygo is committed to staying at Real Madrid this summer. (Fabrizio Romano) Officials from the Saudi Pro League are eager to secure Liverpool’s winger Luis Diaz and defender Joe Gomez in the upcoming transfer window. (Mail) A top club in Saudi Arabia is prepared to offer…
Arsenal has reportedly entered the competition with Chelsea to secure the signature of Feyenoord’s left-back, Quilindschy Hartman, as per a recent report. Hartman played a pivotal role in Feyenoord’s achievements under former manager Arne Slot before suffering a severe knee injury in March, expected to keep him sidelined for a significant part of 2024, complicating any potential transfer plans. While a summer move seems unlikely due to his injury setback, The Telegraph indicates that Arsenal is closely monitoring the 22-year-old’s recovery process. They view Hartman as a player capable of making an immediate impact in the Premier League. Gunners’ manager…
Harry Maguire acknowledges that the England squad is convinced that the timing is perfect for them to secure a trophy as they gear up for Euro 2024 in Germany this summer. Despite close calls in recent tournaments, such as reaching the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and the final of Euro 2020, the Three Lions are entering Euro 2024 as one of the top contenders for ultimate glory. Maguire attributes much of England’s success to manager Gareth Southgate, emphasizing his role in fostering a cohesive team environment that brings out the best in players. “He focused on the little…
Manchester City is reportedly considering offering Rodrygo an opportunity to depart from Real Madrid if he becomes dissatisfied with his role at the club. With Madrid poised to announce the arrival of Kylian Mbappe, speculation suggests that the French star could potentially replace Rodrygo in Carlo Ancelotti’s attacking duo alongside Vinicius Junior. Rodrygo recently caused concern among fans when he declined to rule out a potential exit from the club on two occasions. However, he later clarified that his statements had been misinterpreted and reaffirmed his commitment to Madrid. According to MARCA, City is keeping a close eye on Rodrygo’s…
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti suggested that Xavi will come to terms with the reality that being sacked is a routine aspect of a coach’s profession, following Xavi’s dismissal from Barcelona. Xavi had previously announced his intention to step down as Barcelona’s head coach at the conclusion of the 2023/24 season. However, after a notable improvement in performance towards the end of the campaign, he reversed his decision. Nevertheless, Barcelona opted to relieve him of his duties anyway, appointing Hansi Flick as his successor. Speaking in an interview with El Chiringuito on the eve of Madrid’s Champions League final against…
Liverpool is reportedly eyeing a move for versatile forward Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford, according to a report. The Reds are ushering in a new era following the departure of club legend Jurgen Klopp, who has stepped down from his managerial role after a highly successful nine-year tenure. In his place, Liverpool has appointed Feyenoord boss Arne Slot as their new head coach, as part of a revamped footballing structure. Transfer affairs are expected to be overseen by FSG’s CEO of football, Michael Edwards, along with the club’s new sporting director, Richard Hughes. L’Equipe reports that Liverpool, along with Newcastle United,…
According to a report, incoming Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has outlined his desire for the club to secure signings in the goalkeeper, left-back, and forward positions during the upcoming summer transfer window. Maresca is set to take over the managerial reins at Stamford Bridge, succeeding Mauricio Pochettino. Despite facing criticism despite leading Leicester City to this season’s Championship title, Chelsea is anticipated to demonstrate their commitment to Maresca by offering him a long-term contract. As per the Daily Telegraph, Maresca has communicated his transfer plans, seeking reinforcements in the goalkeeper, left-back, and forward areas. Leeds United winger Crysencio Summerville…
Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr has stated his preference for winning the Champions League trophy over clinching the Ballon d’Or prize. Despite emerging as one of the frontrunners for the individual award, the Brazilian’s focus remains on team success. With 17 goals in his last 23 matches, including a crucial brace against Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final, Vinicius emphasized his desire for collective triumph. When asked if he would prioritize a 1-0 victory over Dortmund, similar to their win against Liverpool two years ago where he scored the winner, Vinicius affirmed, “for sure.” He clarified, “With a goal…
“The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) warns FIFA of potential player strikes aimed at reducing match volume.” Pressure mounts on football’s global governing body to address the grueling schedule faced by elite players, with legal threats looming. The PFA advocates for adjustments to the congested football calendar, particularly with the proposed expansion to a 32-team Club World Cup next summer. At an event in London hosted by the PFA and FIFPRO, the international players’ union, concerns were voiced about players being pushed to their limits. PFA chief executive Maheta Molango recounted discussions with players from an unnamed club, some expressing readiness…