Football
Results, transfers and decisions shaping the game.
Football
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Gianni Infantino Faces Growing Backlash Over World Cup Commercial Rights Sale
FIFA president Gianni Infantino is holding a crisis meeting with senior staff in Morocco.
Infantino is facing increasing scrutiny and growing opposition, with several European Football Associations withdrawing their support following a controversial plan to sell off FIFA's commercial and event operations. The Guardian reports that Prince Ali bin al-Hussein, president of the Jordan Football Association, has accused Infantino's administration of "blackmail," claiming FIFA threatened to withhold financial assistance from federations that did not back the president's re-election bid. UEFA has also threatened a FIFA boycott over the sale plan, with the European governing body set to hold an emergency meeting. The FIFA president has summoned senior leaders to a meeting amid mounting criticism of his scrapped plan to sell off commercial and event operations.
Arsenal Nearing Deal for Bruno Guimarães Amid Transfer Speculation
Arsenal are reportedly close to completing a protracted move for Newcastle captain Bruno Guimarães.
Reports suggest that Arsenal are on the verge of signing Newcastle captain Bruno Guimarães. Sky Sports' Dharmesh Sheth and Michael Bridge discussed the latest developments, with Sheth describing the deal as "inevitable." This comes after Arsenal had an initial £70m bid rejected, but the clubs are now understood to have agreed on a fee. Guimarães has been a key player for Newcastle since his arrival, and his potential departure would be a significant blow to the club. The transfer speculation has been ongoing, and with agreement now reportedly reached, the move could be finalized soon.
Sources
Mohamed Salah in Transfer Talks with Trabzonspor
Trabzonspor have begun transfer negotiations with Mohamed Salah, with the club chair hoping to sign the Egypt forward this week.
Turkish Super Lig club Trabzonspor has officially stated that negotiations have commenced to sign Mohamed Salah, who is currently a free agent after leaving Liverpool. The club's chairman expressed optimism about finalizing the deal and having the Egyptian international undergo a medical on Wednesday. Salah's departure from Liverpool after nine years marks the end of a significant era for the club and the player.
Sources
Barcelona Sign Kerolin from Manchester City for Club-Record Fee
Barcelona has signed Brazil forward Kerolin from Manchester City for a fee reported to be around £1.25m, making her the Women's Super League's most expensive export.
Kerolin's transfer from Manchester City to Barcelona has set a new benchmark for fees received by a Women's Super League club. The reported £1.25m fee eclipses previous record sales, including Olivia Smith's move to Arsenal for £1m and Melvine Malard's switch from Manchester United to Chelsea. Kerolin had only been in the WSL for 18 months before making this move, which also represents a club record for Barcelona. This transfer highlights the growing financial power and talent mobility within women's football.
Sources
Manchester United Set to Appoint Eva Olid as Women's Manager
Manchester United are reportedly set to appoint Eva Olid, formerly of Hearts, as their new women's manager.
Manchester United are close to finalizing the appointment of Eva Olid as their new head coach for the women's team, replacing Marc Skinner. Multiple sources indicate that talks with the 40-year-old are advanced and she is expected to be introduced to the squad imminently. Olid's arrival follows Skinner's departure earlier in the week, and her appointment could bring a new direction to the team.
Sources
Vinícius Júnior Focused on Real Madrid Under New Manager Mourinho
Vinícius Júnior is settling into life under new Real Madrid manager José Mourinho and is reportedly happy at the club.
Despite speculation linking him with a move to Arsenal, Vinícius Júnior has expressed contentment with his current situation at Real Madrid under new manager José Mourinho. The Brazil winger stated that things have gone "very well" in getting to know the new coach during pre-season training. Vinícius has one year remaining on his contract at the Bernabéu and has been a key attacking player for Real Madrid in recent seasons. His positive assessment suggests he is committed to staying at the club.
Sources
MLS Commissioner Larry Berg Rules Out Promotion and Relegation 'Anytime Soon'
Incoming MLS commissioner Larry Berg stated that the league will not be adopting a promotion and relegation system in the near future.
During his introductory press conference, the new MLS commissioner, Larry Berg, addressed the long-discussed possibility of introducing promotion and relegation to the North American league. Berg, who co-owns LAFC, believes that such a system is "not appropriate" for MLS at this time and indicated it would not be implemented "anytime soon." This decision will likely be met with mixed reactions from fans who have advocated for the system's introduction.
Sources
Marcus Rashford's Manchester United Future Debated
Marcus Rashford is expected to return to Manchester United training in the coming days.
The return of Marcus Rashford to Manchester United training is imminent, but debate continues regarding whether this is a positive development for the club. Rashford's form and fitness have been subjects of discussion, and his reintegration into the squad raises questions about his role and impact for the upcoming season.
Sources
Cape Verde Coach Bubista Resigns; Ivory Coast Reappoint Renard
Bubista has resigned as head coach of Cape Verde, and Ivory Coast has reappointed Hervé Renard as their head coach.
Bubista's departure comes after Cape Verde reached the last 32 of the World Cup. Meanwhile, Ivory Coast has brought back Hervé Renard, who has previously led them to two Africa Cup of Nations titles, suggesting a move to leverage his successful past with the national team.
Sources
Football
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Infantino Faces Growing Opposition as More European FAs Withdraw Support
The Football Association has joined Wales and Serbia in withdrawing support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino's re-election bid.
Several European football associations are intensifying efforts to end Gianni Infantino's tenure as FIFA president. The Football Association's decision, communicated in a letter to FIFA, signifies a significant shift away from endorsing Infantino for a fourth term. This move follows similar withdrawals of support from Wales and Serbia, highlighting growing international dissent amid controversy surrounding his plan to sell World Cup commercial rights to private investors. The Football Association's endorsement was considered particularly high-profile among UEFA member associations.
Sources
Celtic Begin Title Defence with Hard-Fought Win Over Dundee
Celtic secured a 1-0 victory against Dundee in their opening Scottish Premiership match.
Celtic began their title defence with a narrow 1-0 win over Dundee at Celtic Park. The victory was secured by a second-half header from Benjamin Nygren, assisted by Kieran Tierney's delivery. Despite a somewhat subdued first half where Dundee posed challenges, Celtic found their rhythm after the break. This win marks a successful start to the season for Celtic, who are aiming to build on their recent successes, including unfurling the flag confirming their 14th title in 15 seasons before the match.
MLS Investigates Allegations of Antisemitic Chants in Montreal Match
MLS is investigating reports of antisemitic and discriminatory chants directed at New England Revolution's Israeli striker Dor Turgeman during a match against CF Montréal.
Major League Soccer has confirmed it is investigating alleged antisemitic and discriminatory chants that occurred during a recent match between CF Montréal and the New England Revolution. The chants were reportedly aimed at New England's Israeli striker Dor Turgeman shortly before he scored. Broadcast microphones are said to have captured fans chanting "free Palestine." The New England Revolution have issued a strong condemnation of the chants.
Sources
Chelsea Defender Trevoh Chalobah Moves to Como, Jordan Henderson Signs
Chelsea have agreed to sell defender Trevoh Chalobah to Como for an initial fee of £25.7 million, and have also signed midfielder Jordan Henderson.
Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah is set to end his association with the club, with Como agreeing to a deal worth over £30 million. Chalobah made 105 Premier League appearances for Chelsea and became a first-team regular during various challenging periods for the club. This move is considered a significant acquisition for Como's head coach, Cesc Fàbregas. The transfer agreement for Chalobah was finalised on the same day Chelsea completed the signing of Jordan Henderson.
Sources
Arsenal's Reported Interest in Vinicius Jr Sees Real Madrid Resume Contract Talks
Real Madrid and Vinicius Jr. are set to resume contract negotiations this week, with Arsenal reportedly monitoring the situation.
Real Madrid and their player Vinicius Jr. are scheduled to restart contract discussions in the upcoming week. This development comes amidst reported interest from Arsenal, who are understood to be waiting to see how negotiations unfold. The outcome of these talks could significantly impact transfer plans for both clubs.
Sources
Newcastle Reject Arsenal's Initial £70m Bid for Bruno Guimarães
Newcastle United have rejected a £70 million offer from Arsenal for their captain, Bruno Guimarães.
Arsenal has made an opening offer of £70 million for Bruno Guimarães, which Newcastle United has turned down. The Brazilian midfielder has recently joined his teammates at their pre-season training camp after a holiday. This formal negotiation marks Arsenal's increased efforts to sign the player, who met incoming manager Matthias Jaissle for the first time.
Sources
Larry Berg Voted Next MLS Commissioner
Los Angeles FC co-managing owner Larry Berg has been elected as the next commissioner of Major League Soccer.
The MLS board of governors has selected Larry Berg, co-managing owner of Los Angeles FC, to become the league's next commissioner. Berg will assume the role on January 1, 2027, succeeding Don Garber. This appointment marks Berg as the third commissioner in the history of the 30-year-old league. He is also a senior partner at the private equity firm 26North.
Sources
West Ham Co-Owner Advised to Avoid Home Matches Amid Fan Unrest Fears
West Ham's co-owner has been recommended by the London Stadium to stay away from home matches due to concerns about fan reactions following sexual misconduct allegations.
Amidst allegations of sexual misconduct, West Ham's co-owner has been advised by the London Stadium to refrain from attending home games. This recommendation stems from fears of potential fan unrest. The situation highlights ongoing tensions related to club ownership and fan sentiment.
Sources
Charlton Athletic Up for Sale Again by US Owners
Charlton Athletic's current US ownership group has put the club up for sale just three years after acquiring it.
Charlton Athletic's American owners have decided to sell the club, marking the fifth ownership change in six years. The ownership group, led by Gabriel Brener, purchased the club for £15 million in 2023. They have reportedly engaged Oakwell Sports Advisory to find a buyer, with Oakwell marketing Charlton as a significant 'football club upside opportunity in London.' The sales pitch suggests potential for substantial equity growth through promotion, commercial expansion, and investment in women's football.
Sources
Mateo Kovacic Asserts Club's Confidence Amidst Exit Rumours
Manchester City midfielder Mateo Kovačić stated that the club 'count on me' despite speculation linking him with a summer move away.
Mateo Kovačić has publicly stated that he believes Manchester City still relies on him, even as transfer rumours suggest he could depart the club this summer. His comments aim to quell speculation and reaffirm his commitment or the club's perceived stance on his future. The midfielder joined City in 2023 and has been a part of their squad.
Sources
Fulham Sign Real Madrid Duo Garcia and Palacios
Fulham has completed the signings of Gonzalo García and César Palacios from Real Madrid on five-year contracts.
Fulham has bolstered their squad with the acquisition of two players from Real Madrid: Gonzalo García and César Palacios. Both players have signed five-year deals with the club, signaling a long-term investment. The transfer fees involved were reported to be £34 million in total.
Sources
Football
· 10 topics · Read the edition
Infantino Faces Growing Opposition for FIFA Presidency
Wales has become the first football association to officially withdraw support for Gianni Infantino's re-election as FIFA president.
Pressure is mounting on FIFA president Gianni Infantino as European nations prepare to increase their opposition to his re-election. This comes after the collapse of his controversial World Cup commercial rights sale plan, which was largely thwarted when UEFA member associations threatened a boycott. The mood is described as 'feverish,' with a widespread desire within Europe to see Infantino removed from his post. Wales' withdrawal of support marks a significant moment in this growing dissent.
Sources
Liverpool's Pre-Season Woes Continue with Leeds Comeback
Liverpool conceded four second-half goals to lose 4-2 against Leeds United in their final pre-season US tour match.
Liverpool suffered a significant collapse in their final pre-season friendly, squandering a two-goal half-time lead to lose 4-2 against Leeds United. The defeat, which occurred during their US tour, leaves new manager Andoni Iraola with considerable concerns about his team's defensive fragility. Leeds staged a dramatic comeback in the second half, with goals from Dominic Calvert-Lewin (twice), Brenden Aaronson, and Sean Longstaff. Liverpool's inability to cope with Leeds' set-piece strength and disruptions during the match highlighted potential issues ahead of the Premier League season.
Chelsea Secure Valentin Barco from Strasbourg
Chelsea have signed Argentina international Valentin Barco from sister club Strasbourg on a seven-year deal.
Chelsea has completed their eighth signing under new manager Xabi Alonso with the acquisition of Valentin Barco. The 22-year-old left-back, who can also play in midfield, joins from Strasbourg, a club also owned by Chelsea's ownership group. Barco previously had a spell in England with Brighton, where he made seven appearances, including six in the Premier League during the 2023-24 season. His arrival adds further depth to Alonso's squad as the manager continues to reshape the team.
Sources
Scottish Premiership Kicks Off with Thrilling Encounters
Aberdeen secured a 2-1 victory over Hearts with two goals in stoppage time, while St Johnstone edged out Kilmarnock 4-3 in a seven-goal thriller on the opening weekend of the Scottish Premiership.
The Scottish Premiership season has begun with dramatic finishes, most notably Aberdeen's late comeback against Hearts at Pittodrie. Hearts led for much of the match but conceded an equalizer in the 90th minute and a penalty for a late winner after a red card. Meanwhile, newly-promoted St Johnstone delighted their home fans with a high-scoring 4-3 win over Kilmarnock. These results set an exciting tone for the early stages of the domestic campaign.
Sources
Transfer Rumours Swirl: Man Utd Close on Hall, Spurs Eye Osimhen
Manchester United are reportedly edging closer to signing Lewis Hall, with the left-back having rejected a return to Chelsea.
Manchester United is said to be leading the race for highly-rated left-back Lewis Hall, who has reportedly turned down the chance to return to Chelsea. This development intensifies the transfer speculation surrounding the young defender. In other transfer news, Tottenham have reportedly made an approach for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, indicating their ambition to strengthen their forward line. Additionally, Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo is mentioned as having positive talks with Spurs, hinting at potential movement in the attacking department.
Sources
Lucas Herrington Set for Big-Money Premier League Move
Australian defender Lucas Herrington is reportedly close to a Premier League deal with newly-promoted Hull City for an estimated fee of £12.6m plus add-ons.
Lucas Herrington, who recently became the youngest Australian to start a men's World Cup game, is poised for a significant transfer to the Premier League with Hull City. Reports suggest a fee of approximately £12.6m, with a further £4.4m in potential add-ons, which would make him one of Australia's most expensive players and set a new selling record for his current club, Colorado Rapids. This move highlights the increasing talent flowing from Australia to top European leagues.
Sources
Premier League Clubs Gear Up for Busy Transfer Window
Premier League clubs have already spent over £1bn in the current transfer window, with expectations of further activity.
The Premier League transfer window is proving to be exceptionally busy, with clubs having already surpassed the £1bn spending mark. This figure indicates the significant financial power and ambition within the English top flight as teams prepare for the upcoming season. The article suggests that clubs are well-versed in navigating the complexities of the transfer market, with preparations starting long before the window officially opens.
Sources
Maresca's Style Praised by Semenyo at Manchester City
Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo has described new manager Enzo Maresca's style of play as 'music to my ears'.
Antoine Semenyo, a forward for Manchester City, has expressed strong approval for the playing style being implemented by new manager Enzo Maresca. Semenyo's positive comments suggest that Maresca's tactical approach is resonating well with the players and showing early signs of success. This endorsement indicates a potentially smooth integration of the manager's philosophy within the squad.
Sources
Alonso Reflects on Chelsea Appointment and Past Struggles
New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has spoken about healing from his exit from Real Madrid and his decision to join Chelsea.
Xabi Alonso has opened up about his recent experience leaving Real Madrid and his motivations for taking the helm at Chelsea. He described the move to Stamford Bridge as an exciting opportunity and touched upon his process of recovering from his previous role. Alonso's reflections provide insight into his mindset as he embarks on a new chapter managing in the Premier League.
Sources
Lewandowski Scores Brace in Chicago Fire's MLS Victory
Robert Lewandowski scored two goals on his home debut for Chicago Fire in their 2-1 MLS win over Charlotte FC.
Veteran striker Robert Lewandowski made an immediate impact in his home debut for Chicago Fire, netting twice to secure a 2-1 victory against Charlotte FC. This win marks Chicago's first MLS success since the international break and sees them closing the gap on the Eastern Conference leaders. Lewandowski's vintage performance highlights his continued goal-scoring prowess in Major League Soccer.
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