Manchester United are urging fans to help them clamp down on social media accounts that leak team news.
The club is monitoring an account on X, formerly known as Twitter, that is leaking injury updates about Erik ten Hag’s side.
According to The Daily Mail, the account has raised suspicion at United and are investigating the source of the leaks and trying to root out potential moles.
The account recently gave injury updates on Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia and Sergio Reguilon.
United are concerned that the leaks are giving an advantage to the Red Devils’ opponents and helping them prepare for matches. An insider told The Daily Mail: “Preparation for games these days is so thorough that leaked information about team line-ups and injuries can give the opposition an advantage to exploit.
United fans should be hounding out these accounts that routinely leak this kind of information, and questioning what is their motivation for doing it.”
The clampdown comes amid United’s worst start to a league season since 1989-90, with Ten Hag’s side languishing in 10th position in the Premier League after four defeats in their opening seven games.
Rangers are actively seeking a replacement for formermanager Michael Beale, who was dismissed over the weekend.
The club’s board, led by CEO and chairman John Bennett, is in the process of identifying potential candidates.
One notable figure who was initially approached for the position was former Chelsea manager Graham Potter. However, it has been made clear that Potter has no intention of taking up the role in Scotland.
Another former Chelsea manager, Frank Lampard, is being considered and is reportedly open to discussions with the club regarding the managerial position.
Additionally, AZ Alkmaar’s head coach, Pascal Jansen, is in contention for the role, although potential complications may arise due to the compensation package required for his services.
Among the candidates are two former Rangers players, Kevin Muscat and Derek McInnes.
Muscat, who currently coaches Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan, has minimal compensation concerns as his contract is set to expire in January.
McInnes, currently at Kilmarnock, also poses nomajor compensation hurdles, despite previously declining an opportunity to manage the club in 2017.
Manchester United is currently experiencing its poorest start to a Premier League season, suffering four losses in their first seven games.
Former United and Ajax legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic has raised doubts about whether manager Erik ten Hag possesses the qualities needed to excel at Old Trafford.
“Coming from Ajax to United as he did is a big difference. I have been in both clubs,” Ibrahimovic told Piers Morgan Uncensored. “You have a different kind of discipline.
Ajax is a talented club. They have the best talents in the club. They don’t have big stars. What is the experience of this coach? Young talents come to United; it is a different mentality.
“The players there are supposed to be big stars. I don’t think you give the same treatment. How much time do you give a coach?
It depends on the owners and what they want, but if you listen to the fans, you don’t have a lot of time because they want to win, and I understand them because they are used to winningand they want to still win.”
Chief executive of Shakhtar Donetsk, Sergei Palkin, has informed ESPN that the club is currently in discussionswith Tottenham regarding a compensation package for Manor Solomon.
Manor Solomon, aged 24, made a move to Tottenham on a free transfer in July, leveraging a FIFA regulation that allows foreign players in Russia and Ukraine to unilaterally terminate their contracts due to the conflict in the region.
Shakhtar Donetsk, along with several other clubs, contested the modifications to Annex 7 of the Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players.
However, FIFA and the Court of Arbitration for Sport dismissed these protests.
Before Annex 7 came into effect, Solomon was under contract with Shakhtar until the end of 2023, which would have required Tottenham to pay a transfer fee.
Nevertheless, Palkin remains hopeful that Shakhtar will receive some compensation directly from Tottenham as discussions continue with the club’s Director of Football Administration and Governance, Rebecca Caplehorn.
“We had conversations withTottenham, with Rebecca,” Palkin told ESPN. “We agreed that she would send propositions. We are now in, let’s say, a negotiation process with them. I hope and believe we will find a solution.
“At this moment, it is quite early to say something specific because we are on the way in these negotiations.”
Inter Miami CF managing owner Jorge Mas is considering the possibility of his team participating in a match in Barcelona as a way for Lionel Messi to say goodbye to his fans.
Following Messi’s departure from Barcelona as a free agent in August 2021, amidst the club’s financial challenges, there has been ongoing discussion about organising a tribute game to pay homage to the legendary Argentine player.
“I gave him (Lionel Messi) my commitment that I will do everything possible in the coming years so that he has the opportunity to say goodbye to his fans in Barcelona,” Mas said. “Inter Miami will go there (to Barcelona) or we will have some kind of match.
“Messi’s departure from Barcelona was not to his liking, he could not say goodbye to his club, which welcomed him as a child, and I think the circumstances were not what Lionel wanted.”
Barcelona President Joan Laporta recently expressed the idea that it would be fitting for Lionel Messi’s tribute to coincide with the official unveiling of the renovated Spotify Camp Nou stadium, which is not anticipated until the 2025–26 season.
In the past, there has been speculation about using the annual Joan Gamper Trophy, a traditional pre-season event held in August, as a potential occasion to pay tribute to Messi.
During the summer, there were considerations of Messi making a return to Barcelona, but he eventually joined Inter Miami CF after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired in June.
Messi, a 2022 World Cup champion with Argentina, has been in excellent form, scoring 11 goals in 12 matches for Inter Miami this season. With him on the field, Inter Miami has remained unbeaten and even secured the League Cup in August, marking their first trophy win.
“I think everything has changed with him,” Mas said of Messi’s impact on MLS. “The MLS is another. Every time we play away from home, the stadiums are full. The reception for Lionel has been extraordinary.
“The game in New York, with almost 30,000 fans and 80% shouting Messi’s name… there were Albiceleste and pink Inter Miami t-shirts… It shocked me; I wasn’t expecting that. There will be a before and after Messi’s arrival to the MLS.”
Mas did know that Messi’s arrival would alter the game in North America.
“In 2019, I organised a meeting with [Messi’s father and agent] Jorge Messi,” he said. [Inter Miami co-owner] David Beckham and I explained the Miami project to Jorge for three hours. I told him: ‘Your son will have the opportunity to create a new legacy because he will be able to change a sport in a country,’ and that (opportunity)is very rarely given to an athlete.”
Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, is reportedly implementing a policy to halt the club from acquiring players aged 30 or older, as per Sport.
During the summer transfer window, Barcelona brought in Iñigo Martinez, Ilkay Gundogan, and Oriol Romeu, all of whom are above the age of 30.
Additionally, Joao Cancelo, another recent addition on loan, is 29.
These signings were intended to provide experience alongside established players like Robert Lewandowski, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Marcos Alonso, and Sergi Roberto. However, Deco believes it’s time for the club to shift its focus to a different type of acquisition.
According to the report, Barcelona will not consider even free agents who are older than 30, as new signings must maintain their transfer value.
Conversely, Barcelona is also fostering young talent, with players like Lamine Yamal, Alejandro Balde, Gavi, Fermin Lopez, and Pedri gaining significant playing time.
AC Milan is actively working on securing goalkeeper Mike Maignan a new contract, especially in light of interest from Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, as reported by Calciomercato.
Discussions between the club and the 26-year-old’s representatives are scheduled for later this month.
AC Milan intends to propose a fresh five-year contract that would see Maignan’s annual salary double from €2.8 million to €5.6 million.
The French international reportedly aims to secure a contract on par with some of Europe’s elite goalkeepers, such as Thibaut Courtois of Real Madrid and Marc-André ter Stegen of Barcelona, which could potentially mean a request for an annual figure closer to €7 million.
Maignan’s primary preference is to continue with the Serie A club, but Chelsea and PSG are keeping tabs on the situation and could explore potential moves if there’s no substantial progress following the initial discussions.
Mackson, a beautiful lady with a rich melanin complexion, brownish curly hair, and an impressive physique, has received accolades for her stunning appearance.
She is a model based in the UK and has graced several runways and worked with various brands.
Her Instagram profile prominently showcases her affinity for swimsuits and beach settings, evident in her captivating photos and videos.
Janine Mackson recently revealed her pregnancy through breathtaking photos shared on Instagram, announcing that she and Thomas Partey are expecting their first child.
The images showcased her baby bump and a joyful Thomas Partey, who is eagerly anticipating fatherhood.
In response to the announcement, Partey simply wrote ‘God did’ under his girlfriend’s post. Their relationship had been kept private until this pregnancy revelation.
As per Mackson’s post, they are embracing this moment as a ‘new beginning.
Real Madrid has issued a response to allegations of referee bribery made by a former police commissioner, who asserted that prosecuting Florentino Perez is a daunting task.
According to The Athletic, Jose Manuel Villarejo recently made these accusations during an interview with the Spanish publication RAC 1.
Villarejo brought up the claims while discussing the ongoing scandal at Barcelona, where the club has been charged with making payments to the former vice president of Spain’s football refereeing committee, Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira.
Negreira is currently facing corruption charges, along with Sandro Rosell and Josep Maria Bartomeu, both of whom served as Barcelona’s president during the final eight years of Negreira’s tenure from 2010 to 2018.
Barca have always denied any wrongdoing, but Villarejo claims that Real have engaged in similar practises, as he told RAC 1: “All presidents have done it. Florentino Perez, too.
“Somehow, at Real Madrid, before this Negreira case, the same thing had already been detected.
“It is impossible to prosecute anything that involves Perez. It would be suicide for anyone who dared to do so. Florentino is untouchable.”
Real Madrid have released an official statement responding to the allegations, confirming that Perez has already initiated legal proceedings against Villarejo for his “false accusations”.
The statement in full reads: “The president of Real Madrid C.F., Florentino Perez, has ordered the immediate filing of the corresponding legal action against the ex-commissioner Villarejo for the false accusations made on the Catalan radio station RAC1.”
Villarejo was detained in 2017 on suspicion of bribery and extortion, and his trial began four years later.
Meanwhile,Real Madrid is presently gearing up for their Champions League group stage encounter against Napoli. The match is scheduled to be held at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium on Tuesday night.
Galatasaray’s Wilfried Zaha made a ‘build or die’ admission when reflecting on his failed Manchester United stint ahead of his return to Old Trafford.
Zaha spent two years at United, where he appeared in just five matches in all competitions and was twice sent out on loan to Crystal Palace and Cardiff City.
In 2015, the winger went back to Crystal Palace on a permanent transfer and spent another eight seasons at the club before leaving them as a free agent to join Galatasaray this summer.
Ahead of facing the Red Devils in the Champions League, Zaha claimed that he is not ‘bothered’ about how his Old Trafford career panned out because it helped him to become stronger mentally.”
Trafford career panned out because it helped him become stronger mentally.
Speaking to reporters, the former Crystal Palace star said, “I’ll be honest, when you look at my face, do you think I am bothered at all? No. I went through a phase in my career where you either build from it or die. It built my character. I was determined not to let my career die out.”
The 30-year-old has made six appearances since signing with the Turkish powerhouses in the summer and has one goal and one assist. In the Champions League on Tuesday versus United, he is most likely to get the start.
Naples experienced a significant earthquakejust hours before Napoli was set to play against Real Madrid in the Champions League.
The Spanish giants are scheduled to compete at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium for the Group C match, where both teams have already earned three points on matchday one.
The match promises to be action-packed, with players like Jude Bellingham and Toni Kroos facing off against Victor Osimhen and his teammates.
However, there is cause for concern off the field even before the match begins. A 4.0-magnitude earthquake has shaken the ground in Italy.
While Real Madrid’s squad is staying in downtown Naples, away from the epicentre in the Camp Flegrei area, anxious locals have taken to the streets to assess the situation and determine if any significant damage has occurred.
Spanish journalist Guillem Balague is among those in Italy to cover European action, and he has posted on social media: “A 3.2 earthquake is like a lorry hitting a building. Or more like ten lorries. Buildings move, and noise is strong. I know that because it just happened to us in Naples.”
Real boss Carlo Ancelotti is preparing to face his former employers when locking horns with Napoli, and he has said of a heavyweight encounter with the Serie A title holders: “Napoli are one of the best teams in Italy. They’ve maintained the same structure [under new coach Rudi Garcia].
“They have a high level; they have individuals and an atmosphere that pushes them. It’s a return to the past. I had positive moments there, in a marvellous city.
Some good moments, some less good. It’s the most difficult game in the group.”
Since his arrival in Germany, Frimpong has honed his skills and evolved into a pivotal player for Bayer Leverkusen.
Over the past year, he has become the subject of interest for numerous clubs, including Manchester United.
However, despite the surrounding interest, Jeremie Frimpong is ready to commit his future to Bayer Leverkusen.
Reports suggest that the 22-year-old is on the verge of signing a new contract with the German club that will extend his tenure until the summer of 2028.
Frimpong’s contentment atBayer Leverkusen is evident, and he is eager to carry on the remarkable journey he has embarked upon with the club.
Ghana international Thomas Partey will be part of the Arsenal squad that takes on RC Lens in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, October 3.
The Black Stars midfield enforcer, after weeks of layoffs, has finally resumed full training with his teammates.
On Monday, when he trained with his teammates, he was given a heartwarming welcome and showed massive love.
According to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, “Thomas [Partey] has progressed really well in the last two weeks. He’s training with us now”.
With Thomas Partey now back in good shape and displaying sharp form, there’s a likelihood that he might see some playing time in the UEFA Champions League match against RC Lens on Tuesday night.
Arsenal enters the Group B fixture as the group leaders, following their convincing victory over PSV in the initial game.
While it’s not the ideal expectation for Thomas Partey to start the match, as he’s gradually reintegrated into the squad, there is a possibility that he could be substituted into the game at some point.
Former German and Ghanaian footballer Kevin Prince Boateng (36) was baptised in Germany and took to social media to declare Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life.
“Revelation 3:20 – And It’s up to US to open the Door or not. JESUS is The way, The truth and The life,” he wrote on Instagram, accompanied by photos of his baptism.
Boateng announced his retirement from professional football in August, following a career that spanned nearly two decades.
In a video reel posted on his Instagram page to confirm hanging his boots, Boateng explained why he decided to become a footballer.
“You become a criminal or you play football, so I choose to play football,” the former Barcelona and AC Milan star said.
“I was always special from the first moment, and I knew it. I was my biggest rival all the time. There’s no one else who can be my rival.
“Because no one is like me, no one thinks like me, and no one has emotions like me. It’s just me and myself. I had to learn that, as well, talent is nothing without hard work.”
Born in Berlin, West Germany, Boateng’s football journey began in Hertha Berlin’s youth ranks, and he eventually made his way into the senior team in 2005. Despite his modest beginnings, he went on to represent some of Europe’s top clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur,Borussia Dortmund, and AC Milan.
Boateng’s impressive career also saw him don the jerseys of AC Milan, Schalke 04, Barcelona, Fiorentina, and Monza, before returning to Hertha Berlin for a final stint.
Throughout his career, Boateng amassed an impressive collection of trophies, including Serie A, Coppa Italia, Supercoppa Italiana, DFB Pokal, and La Liga titles.
On the international stage, he proudly represented Ghana at the 2010 and 2014 World Cups, earning a total of 15 caps and scoring two goals for his national team.
Spokesperson for the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Kwaku Owusu Banahene, has recommended that the independent presidential candidate, Alan Kyerematen, should undertake thorough consultations when submitting his nomination forms to the Electoral Commission for the 2024 elections.
Banahene suggested that it would be wise for the former New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopeful to seek guidance and support from experienced figures such as Dr. Kwadwo Afari Gyan and Mrs. Charlotte Osei, both of whom have previously served as Electoral Commissioners.
This, he argued, would help preempt any potential efforts by the NPP to disqualify Kyerematen through the EC’s processes.
“When it comes to the filing of his forms, he should let Dr Afari Gyan fill them out for him, and when he is done, Charlotte Osei should do the proofreading. She should scrutinise the documents carefully before he goes ahead to submit it.
“Else, the Electoral Commissioner will disqualify Alan. I am telling you, and you can mark it down. That is the avenue the NPP will use to have Alan Kyerematen disqualified,” he stated on Peace FM’s morning show on Monday, October 2, 2023.
Banahene observed that Alan Kyerematen, who recently withdrew from the NPP flagbearer contest due to perceived unfair treatment towards him and his supporters, enjoys significant popularity and could pose a substantial challenge to the NPP.
Furthermore, he pointed out that many incumbent Members of Parliament who are likely to lose in the NPP’s parliamentary primaries may follow in Kyerematen’s footsteps and opt to run as independent candidates in the 2024 elections.
Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, who serves as the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), expressed apprehension about the state of Ghana’s democratic stability, primarily due to ongoing economic hardships.
During an interview on Joy News, he voiced concerns regarding the potential for political instability in the country.
Nketiah emphasised that the prevailing tolerance among Ghanaian citizens has been a crucial factor in preventing the nation from sliding into turmoil.
He also drew attention to Ghana’s historical instances of coups that were instigated by conditions less severe than the current economic challenges.
“Ghana is more than ripe for a coup d’état, but the only thing that is saving us is the tolerance of Ghanaians.
“If you look at our history, you will see that the things that have led to previous coup d’états in this country were even less than what is happening now. But the only thing that is saving us is tolerance and our collective history,” myjoyonline.com quoted him as saying.
While recognising the admirable resilience of the Ghanaian populace, Nketiah urged against resorting to disruptive measures as a short-term solution.
He stressed that such actions could ultimately exacerbate the crisis and establish a recurring pattern of instability under potentially unyielding new leadership.
Nketiah issued a cautionary message,emphasising the significance of not underestimating the far-reaching repercussions of a coup d’état and the imperative of safeguarding Ghana’s cherished democratic principles.
Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, a humanitarian surgeon and the Medical Director of Sage, has made a heartfelt appeal to the government, urging the removal of taxes on consumables essential for kidney dialysis procedures.
This, she believes, would enable healthcare institutions providing dialysis treatment to lower their prices for patients.
As a double-boarded certified surgeon, Dr. Ayensu-Danquah runs a prominent dialysis centre in the country.
She highlightsthat taxes on critical items like dialysers, introducer needles, arteriovenous fistula needles, blood tubing sets, and transducer protectors significantly contribute to the overall cost of dialysis treatment.
Unfortunately, these added costs are often passed on to patients through higher treatment fees.
Addressing the media in light of recent concerns over the escalating expenses associated with dialysis in the country, Dr. Ayensu-Danquah, who also serves as a member of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) Advisory Team for Vaccines and Biological Products, expressed her dismay.
While she empathises with kidney failure patients’ current predicament, she stressed that one of the most effective solutions would be the removal of tariffs on consumable imports.
This action would facilitate increased shipments of these crucial supplies into the country, ultimately benefiting renal patients by making treatment more affordable.
Dr. Ayensu-Danquah further explained that the prices of consumables are closely tied to the US dollar exchange rate.
Therefore, any depreciation in the value of the cedi leads to price hikes, rendering it costly for facilities like Sage to import these vital materials.
“The price of consumables is tied to the US dollar rate, and any depreciation in the cedi means prices will increase, making it costly for facilities such as Sage to import.
“This does not only make it harder for existing facilities to operate, but it denies other investors from setting up to make prices competitive for patients,” the National Democratic Congress parliamentary candidate for the Essikado-Ketan in the Western Region said.
NHIS
Dr. Ayensu-Danquah also proposed that the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) should include coverage for dialysis procedures and kidney patient treatment in Ghana.
She suggested that the NHIS, managed by the National Health Insurance Authority, could adopt a co-payment policy, allowing patients to contribute a portion of the costs for these essential services.
Contributions
Dr. Ayensu-Danquah, known for her medical philanthropy, serves as a Professor of Medicine at the Centre for Global Surgery at the University of Utah in the United States and also holds a teaching position at the University of Cape Coast Medical School. Through her charitable efforts, she generously donates free medical supplies and equipment to clinics and hospitals located in rural areas.
Despite being a private hospital, Sage Medical Centre, situated in East Legon opposite the Ampomah Hotel, is dedicated to a noble mission. Their goal is to make affordable kidney care accessible to all Ghanaians, with the ultimate aim of saving lives.
Dr Ayensu-Danquah
Dr. Ayensu-Danquah initially practised medicine in private practise in the United States before deciding to return to Ghana to make a meaningful impact on lives.
She holds licences to practise in both California and Michigan and has earned fellowship status in both the American College of Surgeons and the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons.
Additionally, she serves as a board member for Days for Girls International Ghana.
Upon her return to Ghana, Dr. Ayensu-Danquah played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Sage Medical Centre.
She recognised a significant gap in the provision of dialysis care and aimed to address this issue.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is reportedly showing interest in Super Eagles star Victor Boniface as he searches for a rival to Erling Haaland.
Boniface has been a standout performer in the 2023-24 season, shining in the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen under the guidance of Xabi Alonso.
The Nigerian forward has notched five goals and provided two assists in just as many games in the German top-flight league this season.
According to a report from Fichajes, Premier League champions Manchester City are closely monitoring the Nigerian international as Guardiola looks to find a complementary striker to Haaland.
Boniface’s style of play aligns with Guardiola’s approach, offering versatility and options in attack beyond just scoring goals.
However, City is not the sole European club keeping an eye on the 22-year-old talent, as Serie A giants Juventus are also reportedly interested, eager to seize an opportunity.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mOeLqud0IOs
While Boniface remains focused on making a strong impact in Germany, he may entertain the possibility of a transfer in the summer if a compelling offer materializes from another club.
Boniface equals Haaland’s record and beats Kan
In a prior Sports Brief, it was highlighted that Boniface not only matched Haaland’s record but also outperformed English captain Harry Kane to secure a prestigious Bundesliga award.
The young Nigerian sensation outshone the seasoned striker to claim the title of the top player for August, a feat he accomplished by netting four goals in just three appearances for Leverkusen.
Furthermore, Boniface’s impressive performance earned him the ‘Rookie of the Month’ award, putting him on par with Haaland as the second player to achieve the distinction of winning both league awards within a single month.
Member of Parliament for Tema West, Carlos Ahenkorah, has called upon the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to initiate peace discussions with Kennedy Agyapong and Chairman Wontumi in order to promote party unity.
Ahenkorah stressed that the uncontrolled actions of these two prominent figures within the party could lead to internal conflicts that may jeopardise the party’s peace and its aspirations for a consecutive eight-year term in power.
This appeal comes in response to recent remarks made by Kennedy Agyapong, a contender for the NPP’s flagbearer position, in which he made allegations against the party’s leadership.
Agyapong accused the NPP of engaging in activities he deemed deeply concerning, alleging that they were “looting” the country without considering its future.
Carlos Ahenkorah emphasized the importance of measured and considerate responses from influential party members like Agyapong and Chairman Wontumi, recognizing the significant impact their statements could have on the party’s overall cohesion.
“As a matter of urgency, if the leaders of the party do not speak with Ken and Wontumi, the outcome will not be to the benefit of the party. If you want the party to enjoy some peace and break the eight, then both Ken and Wontumi must be called and spoken to,” he said.
He recognized that Agyapong’s recent remarks bore similarities to his previous statements, but emphasized that the presidential aspirant’s heightened position necessitated a more measured and prudent approach when addressing sensitive topics.
“What he said is not very different from what he has been saying all these while, except that some of the things he said in Kumasi carry some weight. I want to use this opportunity to plead with Kennedy Agyapong, whether he accepts it or not, he is a forerunner of the party. Now, he wants to run as a flagbearer of the party.
“His reaction to certain situations and his delivery to same situations should inform him that people are watching and based on that, they will decide whether to share thoughts with you or not.
“Many people are expecting that all the things he used to say when he was just a member of parliament, he will relax on some of them particularly because he is a presidential aspirant,” he stated.
He continued “You cannot change Ken because he has his own personality and he is a self-made person but if he should continue on this tangent, those who feel victimised by this approach are likely going to confront him on that.”
Ahenkorah also voiced his apprehension regarding Chairman Wontumi’s recent comments, where he suggested the possibility of disclosing secrets about Kennedy Agyapong in case of any misconduct on Agyapong’s part.
He raised doubts about the relevance of such statements and implored the party to avoid any division.
“Apart from his comments as well, I saw a publication that was attributed to Wontumi. He was also quoted saying that if Ken should misbehave, he would also reveal some secrets of his, I mean why should we get to this? Why must we sell ourselves to the NDC for them to get us on that pedestal?
“I know Ken and I know Wontumi, they are very good friends and so, if comments such as these aremade by Wuntumi then it is concerning. Why will he come out to make such statements, why must we get ourselves to that point,” he questioned.
This comes as police investigations continue into allegations of abuse against the Brazilian international, a claim he vehemently denies.
United granted the 23-year-old winger a leave of absence on September 10, and he recently returned to England.
Antony voluntarily participated in an interview with Greater Manchester Police last Thursday and subsequently resumed training over the weekend.
As a result, there is now the potential for him to feature in the match against Turkish champions Galatasaray at Old Trafford, marking his return to the field a month after his last appearance against Arsenal.
“Antony will be in consideration, but yesterday was his first time back in team training,” United manager Ten Hag told a pre-match press conference on Monday.
“We have a final training (session) and then we make a decision, but he will be in consideration, yeah.”
Antony is currently contending with multiple accusations of physical aggression directed towards his ex-girlfriend, Gabriela Cavallin, who came forward to speak with Brazilian media earlier this month.
The winger has strongly refuted these allegations, including additional claims of assault made by two other women. Importantly, Antony has not faced any arrests or charges in either Brazil or the United Kingdom.
He participated in a voluntary interview, during which he provided evidence to substantiate his firm denials, and departed without any imposed restrictions.
Ten Hag, asked what Antony’s return to the squad said to victims of domestic violence, said: “So, he cooperated fully,” having not heard the initial question. “It came out he’s not charged, so…”
Antony’s fellow forward Jadon Sancho remains sidelined, with full-backs Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia and Sergio Reguilon out injured, while Amad Diallo and Kobbie Mainoo have been unable to feature this season.
Martinez set for surgery
Now centre-back Lisandro Martinez is facing up to three months on the sidelines after the Argentina international underwent surgery following a fractured metatarsal in April’s Europa League quarter-final first leg against Sevilla.
‘I like these situations’ says under pressure Man U boss before Bayern tie
“I can confirm Licha Martinez will have to undergo surgery,” Ten Hag said. “So, the team news is probably Antony dos Santos can return.”
United head into Tuesday’s match desperately needing a win following a 4-3 defeat by Bayern Munich in their Champions League opener and Saturday’s 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace.
That Old Trafford defeat came after back-to-back wins, with Ten Hag saying: “Of course we are disappointed about the result.
“Then you have to analyse the game, where were the problems, then you have to move forward, but also give solutions for the problems.”
Marcus Rashford’s performances are under particular scrutiny, with the England international having scored just once this season following 30 goals in all competitions last term.
“The facts are that he is not scoring in this moment, but also he had the opportunities,” Ten Hag said of Rashford.
“I think, for instance, in the game against Brighton, there were five or six occasions when he was in a very good spot.
“If he works hard and if he invests every day, goes into every game with the right focus and if the team also around him supply him, help him and support him with movement then it will come.”
Tottenham Hotspur has strongly slammed the racist abuse directed at Italian footballer of Nigerian descent, Destiny Udogie, following their thrilling 2-1 victory over Liverpool on Saturday, September 30.
In a dramatic match, Spurs secured a win against a nine-man Liverpool team, with Joel Matip’s own goal sealing the victory.
Cody Gakpo had earlier equalized Son Heung-min’s opener in the first half, and the game was marred by controversy due to the disallowed goal of Luis Diaz for offside when the score was still 0-0.
After the win, Destiny Udogie shared his celebration on Instagram, posting a series of pictures from the game. Shockingly, the comments section was flooded with a disturbing wave of racist abuse.
In response to these disturbing events, Tottenham released a statement on Monday expressing their outrage: “We are disgusted at the racist messages directed towards Destiny Udogie on social media following Saturday’s game against Liverpool.
“We will work with the Premier League and, where possible, take action against any individual we are able to identify. We stand with you, Destiny.”
Destiny Udogie, a 20-year-old prodigious talent, has established himself as a regular starter for Tottenham, featuring in all seven of their Premier League matches this season.
He has contributed significantly with two assists and played a crucial role in securing two clean sheets for the team.
Udogie made the transition to Tottenham’s first team during the summer, following his signing from Udinese in August 2022 after spending the previous season on loan with the club.
In recent matches, Udogie has garnered praise for his standout performances against formidable opponents.
Notably, he effectively contained Bukayo Saka during the intense 2-2 north London derby, even after receiving an early yellow card.
His adept handling of Mohamed Salah in the match against Liverpool, despite the opposition being a man down for much of the game, further underscored his abilities and earned him acclaim.
It’s worth noting that the 20-year-old still has the option to represent theSuper Eagles through his Nigerian parentage.
Following Tottenham’s 2-1 victory overLiverpool, Tottenham striker Richarlison stirred up a bit of controversy by sharing a video on TikTok that appeared to mock Liverpool’s coach, Jurgen Klopp.
The Brazilian uploaded the video two days after the contentious Premier League match between Spurs and Liverpool.
In the video, Richarlison can be seen engaging in a verbal exchange with Klopp after being involved in a challenge with Liverpool’s star player, Mohamed Salah, near the touchline.
The match on Saturday was marred by a series of controversial decisions, including Liverpool being reduced to nine players and a disallowed goal that the refereeing body, PGMOL, later admitted should have been allowed to stand.
The latest VAR controversy has sparked outrage among fans and the Anfield club released a statement brandishing the explanation of the blunder as “unacceptable”.
Former Everton standout Richarlison set up Son Heung-min for the opening goal, shortly after Luis Diaz’s incorrectly disallowed goal.
This contribution adds to Richarlison’s tally of two assists and one goal in seven Premier League appearances this season.
The Brazilian international and his Tottenham teammates are set for another match on Saturday when they travel to face Luton Town in the Premier League.
Manchester United are off to their worst start to a Premier League season in the last 34 years under Erik ten Hag.
The Red Devils suffered yet another loss in the Premier League as they went down 1-0 against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on Saturday.
It was their fourth defeat in seven league appearances this season, which meant that the club were off to their worst start in the last 34 years.
Manager Erik ten Hag was naturally left frustrated after the Palace encounter, as he questioned the quality of the game displayed by his players on the ground after the match.
According to a report from the Mirror, the Dutch manager is also concerned about the ‘mental fragility’ of some of his squad members and their ability to deal with difficult situations on the pitch.
Ten Hag is also dealing with several off-the-pitch issues at the club. He recently had a fallout with Jadon Sancho, after which the English international was banished from first-team activities.
Star defender Lisandro Martinez has also been ruled out of action for a long period of time as the Argentine is set to undergo surgery on a foot injury.
Janine Mackson, the girlfriend of Black Stars player Thomas Partey, has made a joyful announcement regarding their upcoming addition to the family.
Mackson took to her Instagram to share pregnancy photos, marking the occasion as a ‘new beginning.’
The pictures featured her prominently displaying her baby bump, with a visibly delighted Thomas Partey anticipating his role as a father.
The couple had previously kept their relationship private, but the pregnancy announcement has brought their bond into the spotlight.
Presently, Thomas Partey is sidelined due to a groin injury he sustained during a training session in September 2023. The 29-year-old midfielder is on the path to full recovery and is expected to return to action in October 2023.
Udinese’s midfielder, Lazar Samardzic, recently expressed that he harbors no regrets over the collapse of his potential move to Inter Milan during this summer transfer window.
However, he remains steadfast in his readiness to make a transition to a prominent and illustrious club.
The 21-year-old Samardzic seemed poised to make a switch toInter Milan, but in the closing phases of negotiations, the deal unexpectedly unraveled.
Speculation circulated that last-minute alterations from Samardzic’s advisors were the key factors leading to the deal’s breakdown.
“It’s never been about money,” the Serbia international told Sky Italia. “But it’s a thing of the past now and I don’t want to talk about it anymore. I’m a person that thinks positively: Udinese is a strong team, an organized club and if I stay another year, it’s perfect for me.
“I want to have a great tournament here, then we’ll see what happens. I feel ready for a big club. I’m 21 and I think in two years at the most I will be even more prepared mentally and physically.”
Al Nassr football executive manager Marcelo Salazar has spoken about the “brilliant move” his club made by bringing Cristiano Ronaldo to Saudi Arabia, a “shock for world football.”
“It was a very ambitious move by our club,” the Brazilian-born Salazar told Globoesporte. “I would say brilliant. Because bringing a player of Cristiano Ronaldo’s magnitude to play here in Saudi Arabia really was a shock for world football.
“And this effect was what opened the doors for six months later for players like Karim Benzema, Kanté, Roberto Firmino, Neymar, Malcom,… These guys decided to come and play here.
“It was this visibility that Cristiano brought here to the league and, of course, from the moment that not only the player but his family sees that Cristiano Ronaldo is here with his family, his children study at schools here, families also think: if they live there, so can we.”
The 26-year-old, who was acquired for a hefty £50 million from Leicester in 2020, has grappled with persistent fitness problems.
His latest setback occurred during the EFL Cup match against Brighton, where he had to be substituted late in the game due to a hamstring injury.
This injury raises concerns that the English international may face an extended period on the sidelines.
Mauricio Pochettino is already without right-back Reece James until after the international break, as he has a thigh problem, and the manager was asked last week about the pair. “When they’re at their best, they are the best full-backs in the world,” he said.
“At all clubs, important players are missed when they don’t play. If the question is, ‘do we miss them?’ Of course. Reece is a top player and [Chilwell] is also.” Chelsea have £62m-signing Marc Cucurella and Ian Maatsen as backups for Chilwell at left back but are willing to listen to offers to sign Cucurella in January, sources told ESPN.
Inter Miami president David Beckham has reportedly engaged in discussions with Luka Modric regarding a potential transfer either during the upcoming January window or at the conclusion of the current season, as per reports from Cadena SER.
Modric, aged 38, has grown increasingly frustrated with his recent lack of playing time at Real Madrid.
He has not featured in the team’s last two matches, notably being substituted during their defeat to Atletico Madrid.
This unfamiliar situation marks the first time the Croatian international has missed consecutive matches in a Real Madrid jersey since 2012.
Furthermore, 14 other players have seen more action on the pitch than him this season.
During the summer, Modric received multiple offers from Saudi Arabia, but the prospect of a move to Major League Soccer (MLS), potentially partnering with Lionel Messi, seems more feasible.
Predrag Mijatović, a figure closely connected to Modric, has revealed that the Croatian midfielder has also received several offers from American clubs.
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou expressed his disapproval of the video assistant referee (VAR) system, citing its tendency to complicate matters.
This sentiment comes in the wake of his team gaining an advantage due to an officiating mistake during Saturday’s match against Liverpool.
Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL), the referee group, acknowledged their error in disallowing Liverpool winger Luis Díaz’s goal during the first half of the game, which ultimately resulted in Tottenham’s 2-1 victory.
They attributed the error to human judgement.
“I think I’m on record saying that I’ve never really been a fan of it since it came in,” Postecoglou, who previously managed Celtic, said to reporters after the game.
“Not for any other reason than I think that it complicates areas of the game that I thought were pretty clear in the past, but I can see at the same time why it was inevitable that technology would come in. We have to deal with it.
“The game is littered with historical refereeing decisions that weren’t right, but we all accepted that it was part of the game because we’re dealing with human beings,” Postecoglou said.
“I think that people are under the misconception that VAR is going to be errorless. I don’t think there’s any technology because so much of our game isn’t factual. It’s down to interpretation, and they’re still human beings.
“When you put such a high bar on something, it invariably is going to fail, so if people are thinking that VAR is going to be something that at some point that is perfect, that’s never going to happen.”
Liverpool suffered a defeat as Joël Matip scored an own goal in stoppage time, with the team already down to nine players due to the red cards issued to midfielder Curtis Jones and winger Diogo Jota.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, whose team had not lost to Spurs since 2017 and had only been defeated by them once in their previous 21 league encounters, attributed the shift in momentum during the game to VAR’s decision to disallow Diaz’s goal.
Following this outcome, Tottenham climbed to the second position in the Premier League standings, trailing reigning champions Manchester City by just one point.
In contrast, Liverpool found themselves a further point behind in fourth place after seven matches.
“Who does that help now?,” Klopp said when asked about the referees’ statement. “We will not get points for it, so it doesn’t help. Nobody expects 100% right decisions on-field, but I think we all thought when VAR came in, it might make things easier…
“We score that goal. It was top, top, top, outstandingly well played. In a game where you don’t get a lot to feel better, you make that, that’s super-important information, that’s how we can hurt them, that’s how we can beat them, stuff like this.
“So, it was super-difficult, but the boys dealt extremely well with it.”
Rangers made the decision to relieve manager Michael Beale of his duties on Sunday after suffering their third defeat in seven Scottish Premiership games.
In his place, club legend Steven Davis has been appointed interim manager.
Pressure had been mounting on Beale following a disappointing 3-1 loss to Aberdeen at Ibrox on Saturday, with fans voicing their discontent by booing the team as they left the pitch.
Currently, Rangers find themselves in third place in the league, trailing league leader Celtic by seven points.
In anticipation of their upcoming Europa League fixture against Aris Limassol in Cyprus on Thursday, the club issued a statement announcing these managerial changes.
“The Rangers board would like to put on record their thanks to Michael and his staff for their efforts since joining the club last November,” the statement said.
“Results this season have fallen short of what everyone connected to Rangers would expect. Therefore, the decision was reached today to terminate the contract of the manager … The club is pleased to announce that Steven Davis will lead the interim management team.
“The team will consist of former Rangers player and hugely experienced coach Alex Rae, former player and current coach Steven Smith, coach Brian Gilmour and goalkeeping coach Colin Stewart.”
Although former midfielderDavis’ contract with the team expired at the end of the previous campaign, the organisation had been allowing him to utilise the facilities for his recovery from a catastrophic knee injury.
Martinez, who had previously undergone surgery for a broken metatarsal in his right foot, will now face another three months on the sidelines due to the persistent issue.
Despite briefly returning to play, he experienced pain in the same area during a match against Arsenal in September.
United’s medical team has determined that a second surgery is necessary for a complete recovery.
Manager Erik ten Hag is grappling with defensive challenges, with several players, including full-backs Tyrell Malacia, Luke Shaw, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Sergio Reguilon, currently sidelined due to injuries.
This has forced him to deploy defensive midfielder Sofyan Amrabat as a makeshift left-back, while Raphael Varanepartners with Victor Lindelof in central defence.
The World Cup-winning Argentina international, like many others, expressed dissatisfaction with the match officials’ performance at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the Premier League fixture.
During that match, Liverpool had two players, Curtis Jones and Diogo Jota, sent off, and a valid goal by Luis Diaz was disallowed due to another VAR review team error.
PGMOL has issued an apology for a “significant human error,” but Liverpool has called for a more comprehensive solution to addressing costly officiating mistakes.
Liverpool has experienced several contentious decisions against them in recent times, and last season, Jurgen Klopp received a two-match touchline ban for accusing referee Paul Tierney of bias in another high-stakes encounter with Spurs.
Jose Mourinho has subtly mocked his critics by highlightingRomelu Lukaku’s goal-scoring success as the Belgian striker continues to perform well for Roma.
The former Chelsea and Manchester United forward, who previously played under Mourinho at Stamford Bridge and Old Trafford, joined Stadio Olimpico during the summer transfer window on an initial loan deal.
Lukaku has scored four goals in six appearances for Roma, demonstrating his prowess as a former Serie A champion from his time at Inter Milan.
This has made him a shining light for the Giallorossi during a challenging start to the season, in which they have earned eight points from seven matches.
Mourinho believes those exploits prove that he still knows what he is doing, as critics are quick to point at him enduring supposed third-season syndrome once again in a prominent coaching post, with the Portuguese telling DAZN after seeing Lukaku score in a 2-0 victory over Frosinone: “I thought that I could be held responsible for Lukaku not scoring! At the very least, nobody can accuse me of that because Romelu keeps scoring.
He scores here; he scores at Manchester United and at Inter.
Romelu scored everywhere. Fortunately, I am not a coach who can remove Romelu’s qualities.”
Questions continue to be asked about how long Mourinho will be sticking around at Roma, with a lucrative offer from the Middle East having already been snubbed, but he claims to have the full support of owners Dan and Ryan Friedkin.
He added, “You keep talking about the future; that is not something I need to worry about; my future is the promise I made until June 30. A coach must respect the club owners and not comment on anything.
“I am happy for them that we won today, becauseobviously the owners want to win. I work for them, I work for the Roma fans and I work for the players. When we do well, I am happy.”
In February 2008, during the final year of John Agyekum Kufuor’s presidency, he welcomed the then-sitting United States President, George Bush, and the First Lady to Ghana.
During their visit, a state dinner was held in honour of the US President and his wife, where President George W. Bush made a brief comment about First Lady Theresa Kufuor, who has recently been reported as deceased.
Theresa Kufuor, a retired midwife, is said to have passed away at the age of 88 at her residence, although there has been no official confirmation of her death.
During his visit to Ghana, President George W. Bush delivered a short speech at the state dinner, expressing gratitude for the warm hospitality extended by the Ghanaian people.
“I don’t think I have been to a country where the people have been more friendly and more open. We appreciate so very much your hospitality, and I really appreciate the George Bush Motorway,” he said.
Before he concluded his address, he described Theresa Kufuor, the First Lady as ‘gracious,’ while thanking the Ghanaian people.
“I thank you for your leadership. I thank you for your kindness. And I offer a toast to you, your gracious wife, and to the noble people of Ghana. God bless,” he concluded.
Having tied the knot on September 8, 1962, the second first couple of the fourth republic had barely three weeks back celebrated their 61st anniversary as a couple.
The former president once revealed that he married Theresa a year after they got to know each other.
In an interview with Adom TV’s Afia Amankwah Tamakloe, Kufuor disclosed that they met at a Republic Day Anniversary Dance in 1961 in London.
“We got talking at the dance and became friends who got married in 1962 and gave birth to our first child in 1963, the second in 1964,” myjoyonline.com quoted him to have said.
The signing ofGhanaian forward Ernest Nuamah by French Ligue 1 powerhouse Olympique Lyonnais has come under scrutiny from various French clubs, prompting calls for FIFA to investigate, as reported by L’Équipe.
Nuamah, aged 19, initially transferred from FC Nordsjaelland to Belgian club Molenbeek before completing a loan move, which included an obligation to buy, to Olympique Lyonnais.
Questions have arisen among rival fans and commentators regarding Nuamah’s transfer due to Eagle Football’s multi-ownership structure, which considers Molenbeek a sister club to Lyon.
The young Ghanaian forward was acquired for a record-breaking fee of €25 million. When the obligation to buy clause is activated, the entire €25 million is expected to be paid to the Belgian club.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/RZTde1mMZ3U
Internal FIFA sources suggest that the deal will be subject to examination, despite the fact that Nuamah’s transfer to Molenbeek received FIFA approval, and Lyon obtained prior approval from the DNCG after being placed under financial restrictions.
Due to the increased interest from Lyon’s Ligue 1 competitors, FIFA may request additional information from Lyon.
Molenbeek, a newly-promoted Jupiler Pro League club, had previously recorded a transfer fee of €3 million.
Since his controversial move to the Groupama Stadium, Nuamah has made four appearances for the club.
Although he has yet to score for Les Gones, the former Right to Dream player did so while representing the Ghana Black Stars in their recent AFCON qualification matches against the Central African Republic (CAR) last month.
He followed that up with a goal and an assist as Ghana defeated Liberia 3-1 in a friendly match.
Archbishop Nicolas Duncan-Williams of Action Chapel International has delivered a warning to the government regarding the handling of current youth grievances and the protests that have arisen as a result.
During a sermon on September 24, he emphasised the potential risks of disregarding the frustrations of the youth, noting that they are a demanding demographic.
Duncan Williams
While not directly mentioning the specific protests organised by Democracy Hub, such as #OccupyJulorbiHouse, the clergyman stressed the importance of using skillful and strategic approaches to address these concerns
“It is true that we are in a very difficult situation but if we cross 2024 and do the four years of 2025, a day will come in this country; like they are doing in America, they are holding Donald Trump responsible; citizens will hold politicians responsible.
“Because when you are dealing with unmarried youth without children or property, they are unpredictable. And one of the things with dealing with the youth and some of these demonstrations that politicians must not ignore is the fact that the Bible says in the latter days that children shall be disobedient to their own parents.
“This young generation doesn’t care kwraa so when you are dealing with them, you need to be very skillful and very tactful,” he cautioned.
“It is a big deal for African nations and African leaders to ignore the cry and restlessness and frustration of the youth. It is a very bad move for any government in Africa to ignore the cry and concern of the next generation because it is difficult to ignore them. You must meet them halfway,” he stressed.
OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstrators
On September 23, which marked the concluding day of the three-day protests, demonstrators made an attempt to breach a police barricade well into the night with the intention of marching to the presidency.
This occurred in spite of the unlawful arrests and the heavy-handed actions of the police on Day 1, during which 49 protesters were apprehended and held for an extended period on charges of unlawful assembly.
Eventually, all of them were released on bail. Days 2 and 3 transpired without any significant incidents, as the police had already cordoned off the main road leading to the presidency, Jubilee House, even before the protesters commenced their march toward the location.
While Day 2 saw the blocking of one part of the 37-Accra Road,the final day saw the blocking of both sides, which meant vehicular traffic was greatly constrained for the better part of the day.
Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has finally spoken out about his situation at Napoli following recent events involving him and the club.
Osimhen faced mockery from Napoli’s official TikTok account after missing a penalty, and he was also referred to as a ‘Coconut’ in another video.
In response, he deleted nearly all of his Napoli-related posts on his Instagram account. This move garnered criticism from some fans who felt he had shown disrespect to the people of Naples.
On October 1, 2023, Osimhen issued an emotional statement in which he expressed his deep appreciation for the love he has received since joining Napoli in 2020. He called for unity and extended his gratitude to Nigerians and his loved ones who have supported him during these recent challenging days.
“Coming to the City of Naples in 2020 was a wonderful decision for me. The People of Napoli have shown me so much love and kindness, and I will not allow anyone to come between us”.
“The passion of the People of Naples fuels my fire to always play with my heart and soul, and the love for the badge is unwavering as I wear it with pride”.
“The accusations against People of Naples are untrue. I have a lot of friends that are Napolitans and have become part of my family and everyday life. I appreciate Nigerians and everyone for leading their voices to support and reach out to me”.
“I’m forever grateful. Let’s support unity, respect and understanding. FORZA NAPOLI SEMPRE.”
Amidst the mockery saga, he has scored in back-to-backgames for Napoli, taking his goal tally to five goals in seven Serie A games.
Chocolate prices could continue to rise if the new cocoa harvest in West Africa disappoints.
Cocoa prices have surged by approximately 47% in the past year due to concerns about adverse weather conditions and crop diseases affecting production in Cote d’Ivoire and Ghana, which together account for two-thirds of the world’s cocoa supply.
The potential impact of an El Nino weather phenomenon adds to these concerns, and analysts anticipate a third consecutive global shortage in the new season that has just begun.
This could result in continued inflation in the chocolate market, even as food prices overall stabilise.
Leading chocolate manufacturers like Hershey Co. and Lindt & Spruengli AG have already cautioned about the possibility of further price increases, and there are indications that higher prices are affecting demand in both Europe and the important growth market of Asia.
“The current situation is looking relatively dire unless there is a dramatic improvement in the outlook,” said Darren Stetzel, vice president of soft commodities for Asia at broker StoneX. “Further price increases could weigh on consumption.”
In mid-September, New York cocoa futures reached a 12-year peak, coming remarkably close to a price last observed in 1979, although they have slightly receded since then.
This surge in prices was primarily attributed to excessive rainfall and outbreaks of pests and diseases that afflicted cocoa crops in West Africa.
A crucial concern at the moment revolves around the size of the larger of the two annual cocoa harvests. This harvest has recently commenced in Ghana and is initiating in Cote d’Ivoire.
In light of adhering to cocoa traceability regulations imposed by the European Union, which imports 68% of Cote d’Ivoire’s cocoa beans, the sector will face ongoing challenges.
These challenges encompass issues such as the smuggling of produce and the impact of climate change. Yves Kone, the managing director of industry regulator Le Conseil Cafe-Cacao, underscored these challenges as areas of concern for the cocoa industry’s future.
“Climate change dangers threaten our cocoa,” Kone said at a ceremony in the capital, Abidjan, to usher in the new season. “The task will not be easy because we have the responsibility to maintain the cocoa in good production condition,” he said, without giving an outlook on production.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1wQ-WXm1L2c
Cote d’Ivoire in July forecast output from the main crop season that runs from Oct. 1 through March to shrink by almost a fifth from last year, people familiar with the matter said at the time.
The amount could still change after some farmers held back supplies from the smaller mid-crop in anticipation of higher prices in the new season.
The country raised the price farmers will get starting Sunday by 11% to 1,000 CFA francs ($1.61) per kilogramme, falling short of growers’ hopes of a 44% increase.
Analysts at Rabobank and Marex expect West African output to drop in the 2023–24 season.
Marex forecasts the global deficit at 279,000 tonnes, more than the previous two shortfalls combined.
The tight market is being reflected along the supply chain.Cocoa factories around the world have slowed the processing of beans into products used in confectionery.
Trader Cargill Inc. recently said high prices are starting to dent demand increases in Asia, and Swiss grinder Barry Callebaut AG in July reported lower sales.
African harvests have also been stifled because farmers have faced higher costs or shortages of inputs like fertilisers and pesticides. Many live below the poverty line and their pay is set by authorities, meaning they don’t immediately benefit from higher futures prices.
That’s making it harder to boost or treat ravaged trees. Swollen-shoot disease is the most underestimated threat to output in top grower Cote d’Ivoire, affecting about a fifth of the nation’s crop, said Steve Wateridge, head of research at Tropical Research Services.
For the new season in Cote d’Ivoire, farmers in the Daloa region expect to collect a smaller crop due to a lack of pods.
Those in San Pedro say the harvest will be delayed after rains flood plantations, though some Ivorian growers will reap bigger crops due to young trees that are more resistant to disease.
Roughly a 10th of last season’s harvest was lost in Ghana’s Kwarbeng, north of Accra, mainly due to black-pod disease and a lack of chemicals, said Michael Acheampong, who supervises more than 1,500 growers.
There’s a risk that ageing trees mean Ghana’s output is now on a downward trend, Wateridge said.
Farmer pay
Ghanaian cocoa growers have received a boost with the country initiating its new season three weeks ahead of schedule to mitigate disruptions in sales.
As part of this effort, the government has increased pay for cocoa growers by over 60% to discourage cocoa smuggling into neighbouring Cote d’Ivoire and to incentivize investment in cocoa cultivation.
This increase in pay could potentially lead to higher cocoa production in the future, according to Acheampong.
However, any potential increase in cocoa output may not immediately translate into lower prices, and concerns persist regarding the impact of the El Nino weather pattern, which could bring dry conditions later in the season and pose a threat to cocoa crops.
Furthermore, there are apprehensions that new European regulations aimed at curbing deforestation could result in higher costs for the chocolate industry and, subsequently, consumers.
For the time being, the performance of West Africa’s cocoa harvest remains the primary determinant of cocoa prices.
“Chocolate is a luxury good so it does not always follow an elastic price-against-demand correlation,” StoneX’s Stetzel said. “But higher prices will ultimately mean lesser consumers.”
Kennedy Agyapong has made explicit allegations of corruption within the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
He asserts that the scale of embezzlement is highly alarming, suggesting that the misappropriated funds are being concealed overseas.
“The way the NPP is looting this country, you will think there is no tomorrow.
You steal all this money and stash it abroad; what do you mean?” he is heard stating in a video clip that has been shared widely on social media.
“The youth of this country are not working yet, and you are intimidating people. I will put my life on the line and defend them,” he stressed.
According to GhanaWeb’s investigation, he made these remarks during his campaign trip in the United States leading up to the NPP’s flagbearership contest on November 4.
Agyapong, who is a Member of Parliament and an aspirant for the NPP’s flagbearer position, has been vocal about his concerns regarding the party’s direction.
He has claimed that the NPP is on a path of self-destruction, with individuals in power exerting undue influence. Additionally, he has alleged that certain regional chairmen have turned the National Council, the party’s largest decision-making body, into a renegade entity.
“Alan is being insulted on Wontumi’s station. Wontumi is just a small boy; he is a small boy. It is sad that Wontumi and five chairmen—from the northern region, Volta Region—have turned the National Council into a hooliganism group,” he added.
Agyapong will contest for the flagbearership slot of the NPP along with three other contenders, including Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and Francis Addai-Nimoh.
West Ham’s assistant coach, Billy McKinlay, has expressed optimism about the potential impact of Ghanaian international Mohammed Kudus at the club.
Kudus made the switch to West Ham this summer from the Dutch powerhouse Ajax and has already left a mark during his time with the Hammers.
The 23-year-old has featured in four Premier League matches, all as a substitute, in addition to two starts in the Europa League and EFL Cup, during which he scored twice.
Despite Kudus showcasing his talent, manager David Moyes has emphasised the club’s intention not to rush him into Premier League football. Instead, they aim to gradually introduce him to the league.
McKinlay echoed this viewpoint, recognising the challenging nature of the Premier League and the importance of patience in adapting to its demands.
“Mohammed Kudus has settled in at the club really well and we can see there is a talented footballer there who cares about his football and wants to come in and contribute,” McKinlay told the club’s official website.
“I think we maybe just have to be mindful of the fact it is a really tough league, the Premier League and it’s really difficult to come in and set it alight.”
Although there is a somewhat cautiousapproach surrounding Kudus, McKinlay does believe that he will make an impact for our Hammers.
“We have to be patient with him,” added the assistant coach. “But we certainly think he’s going to be a good player for us,” he added.
It is reported that he passed away in South Africa last night after a prolonged battle with illness.
Born on May 17, 1946, Enoch Teye Mensah served as Ghana’s Minister for Education and was a Member of Parliament from January 1997 until January 2017. He was commonly known as ET Mensah and had a family with seven children.
Notably, during the era of the PNDC military regime in Ghana, he held the position of Chief Executive of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), which was akin to being the Mayor of Accra.
ET Mensah joined the National Democratic Congress (NDC) when it was established in 1992. He also contested and won the parliamentary election in 1996, representing the Ningo-Prampram constituency and maintaining the seat for nearly a decade.
Following the NDC’s loss in the 2000 elections, he continued to serve as a Member of Parliament. Mensah eventually lost the NDC primaries to Sam George on December 21, 2015.
Throughout his political career, he held various positions, including Minority Chief Whip in Parliament before the Ghanaian parliamentary election in 2008, after which he became Majority Chief Whip in Parliament in January 2009.
In the early years of the Fourth Republic, he was appointed Minister for Youth and Sports by President Jerry Rawlings and retained the role throughout Rawlings’ tenure.
Subsequently, in January 2010, President John Atta Mills appointed him as the Minister for Employment and Social Welfare following a cabinet reshuffle.
ET Mensah was also a member of the Pan-African Parliament until his resignation in January 2009, after he was appointed as a member of the Council of State.
In January 2011, he was appointed as the Minister for Education, taking over the role after the resignation of Betty Mould-Iddrisu.
Furthermore, on February 12, 2021, Mensah was unanimously elected as the representative of theCouncil of State for the Greater Accra Region.
Aspirant for the position of flagbearer in the upcoming presidential primary of theNew Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Agyapong, has reiterated his objection to the perception that the November 4th vote is being manipulated to favour a specific candidate.
Agyapong, who also serves as the NPP lawmaker for Assin Central, has made it clear that he is prepared to confront any party official, regardless of their level, who attempts to employ unethical tactics before the vote to select the party’s leader for the 2024 elections.
He specifically highlighted the recent resignation of former flagbearer aspirant and former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen. Alan resigned from the NPP on September 25th and subsequently announced his intention to run as an independent candidate in the 2024 election.
One of the reasons cited by Alan for his departure was the perceived bias in the preliminary vote for the flagbearer position, in which he finished third, as well as alleged intimidation of his supporters.
“I am not Alan, who is so gentle. Let them try, and they will see what will happen. We will rescue Ghana, whether you like it or not. For the youth of this country, I will put my life on the line,” the firebrand MP blasted over the weekend at the ShowDown walk in Kumasi.
“That hooliganism they are exhibiting at the National Council: when Alan complained, he was insulted. When Boakye Agyarko complained, he was also insulted. I have also complained, and I am being insulted. But I am not gentle like Alan. They should try and see,” he warned.
Agyapong will compete with three other candidates for theNPP’s flagbearership, including Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and Francis Addai-Nimoh.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-replacement Addo’s as party head will be chosen on November 4, 2023, according to the NPP.
Ghanaian boxer Seth Gyimah,popularly known as Freezy Macbones, had a meeting with renowned musician Charles Nii Armah Mensah, who goes by the stage name Shatta Wale.
This encounter took place at the album listening event for Ghanaian rapper Medikal’s album titled “Planning and Plotting,” which was held at Marina Mall in Accra on Thursday, September 28.
The event, highly anticipated and attended by top figures from the creative and arts industries, as well as other notable personalities, provided a platform for Freezy Macbones and Shatta Wale to connect.
A video spotted two individuals engaging in an animated conversation and later posing for photographs together, radiating happiness.
Freezy Macbones was part of the 12-member team that represented Ghana at the 2024 Olympic Games in Dakar in August.
Regrettably, Freezy Macbones and eleven other Ghanaian boxers did not secure berths at the Olympics, as they were all eliminated from the competition.
Freezy Macbones faced an early exit when he was defeated by Senegal’s Seydou Konate in a middleweight (80kg) round of 32 bouts.
Despite this setback, Macbones, aged 33, holds an impressive record of 2 wins in 2 professional bouts since making his debut against Christopher Wood in February 2023.
Chelsea is open to considering offers for defender Marc Cucurella in anticipation of a potential transfer move in January, according to sources cited by ESPN.
Despite being a £62 million signing from Brighton, Cucurella has only made his second appearance of the season during Wednesday’s 1-0 Carabao Cup fourth-round win against his former club.
He has yet to play a single minute in the Premier League since Mauricio Pochettino took over as head coach in July.
Back in July, Cucurella had expressed his desire to stay at Chelsea and compete for his spot, but if he continues to see limited playing time in the coming months, it may prompt a change in his stance.
During the summer, Chelsea had been prepared to loan the 25-year-old to Manchester United.
However, the deal fell through because Cucurella had already played for Chelsea in a previous Carabao Cup match against AFC Wimbledon.
FIFA regulations state that a player cannot represent three clubs in a single season, and discussions broke down because United sought to include a clause allowing them to return Cucurella to Chelsea.
Reports from Spain have linked Real Madrid with a potential loan offer in January, and the prospect of returning to his home country is believed to be appealing to Cucurella.
United is unlikely to re-enter the race, as they signed Sergio Reguilón on loan from Tottenham after shifting their focus away from Cucurella.
FIFA has assembled a robust delegation for the upcoming 2023 Elective Congress of the Ghana Football Association scheduled for Thursday, October 5, 2023, in Tamale.
The FIFA Delegation, as announced by the GFA, consists of three key members: Gelson Fernandes, who serves as the Director of FIFA Member Associations Africa; Silmara Sousa, holding the role of Development Program Coordinator for FIFA Member Associations Africa, and Ahmed Harraz, who assumes the position of Senior MA Governance Services Manager in FIFA MA Governance.
This FIFA Delegation has been actively assisting the GFA Elections Committee and will engage in final preparations and discussions with the committee during their stay in Ghana before the Congress.
Additionally, FIFA Executive Council Member Amaju Melvin Pinnick is expected to arrive in Ghana in the coming week to participate in the elective Congress, which will take place in the Northern Regional Capital, Tamale.
Furthermore, both CAF and WAFU B have expressed their intentions to send representatives to ensure the success of the GFA Congress on Thursday, October 5, 2023.
In a Mexican second-tier match between Alebrijes de Oaxaca and Dorados de Sinaloa on Wednesday, a pitch-invading dog created quite a spectacle by snatching the ball and darting around the field.
The dog sprinted onto the pitch and insisted on having the ball from Sinaloa goalkeeper Hernan Mendoza, who reluctantly relinquished it when the referee halted the game for stewards to intervene and guide the dog away.
However, as a steward approached the dog with a leash, the furry intruder managed to firmly grip the football in its mouth and proceeded to make its way towards the center circle, skillfully avoiding the ground staff’s attempts to capture it.
In a matter of seconds, the dog turned the 16,000-capacity stadium into its own arena, with “Ole’s” echoing in the stands as multiple ground staff members comically failed in their efforts to apprehend it.
Even players joined the pursuit, but the agile dog retained possession for over a minute, skillfully evading several challenges. Eventually, one player managed to catch it, and the ground staff coaxed the dog off the field using a spare ball.
Ghanaian boxer Isaac Dogboe is set to take on the undefeated British fighter Nick Ball in an IBF featherweight eliminator match on Saturday, November 18, in Manchester, United Kingdom.
This bout marks Dogboe’s first professional fight on British soil, following his last match in April 2023 when he lost the world title fight to Cuba’s Robeisy Ramirez by unanimous decision in Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA.
Nick Ball, who currently holds the WBC silver featherweight title, has yet to secure a world title opportunity in his 18 professional fights.
He won his first title fight (WBC silver) against Isaac Lowe in April of the previous year, stopping him in the 3rd round to claim the vacant silver title.
Ball has successfully defended the title three times, with his most recent defense occurring in May 2023.
Isaac Dogboe gained recognition when he became the WBO super bantamweight champion on April 28, 2018, after defeating then-world champion Jesse Magdaleno.
However, he later lost the WBO super bantamweight title to Emanuel Navarrete at the Hulu Theatre in New York City’s Madison Square Garden on December 8, 2018.
Notably, Dogboe is now managed by Rising Star African Promotion (RSAP), having parted ways with his father and former trainer, Paul Dogboe, in 2021.
Sport reports that Abha Club, a team in the Saudi Pro League, remains interested in securing the services of the Polish international.
Saad Bguir, a midfielder for Abha, openly expressed his belief that Lewandowski would be the perfect addition to their squad.
“We need top players like Lewandowski,” Bguir said. “That’s the kind of signing we should make if possible.”
Lewandowski, 35, shut the door on a move to the Middle East in the summer, instead preferring to stay at Barça, who he joined from Bayern Munich for €45m in 2022.
Mauricio Pochettino expressed his concern over the recent injury setback suffered by Chelsea’s defender Ben Chilwell, describing it as “bad news”.
Chilwell had to undergo a scan on Thursday to assess the extent of the hamstring issue that forced him to exit the field during Chelsea’s midweek League Cup victory against Brighton.
Chelsea’s manager, Pochettino, confirmed that it “looks a bad injury” although he couldn’t provide a specific timeframe for Chilwell’s recovery.
This injury represents another setback for the English left-back, who played in only 23 league games last season and missed the 2022 World Cup due to injury.
“I think it is bad news from what the doctor told me. It is not a good thing,” Pochettino told reporters on Friday.
“It looks a bad injury but we need to assess in the next few days and we will see the period he will be out. “The mechanism was bad, in the last minute of the game.We are really sad about the news about Ben.
“It is difficult to know now, it is less than two days and we need to assess in the next few days.”
With England right-back Reece James also sidelined, Pochettino admitted it was hard to replace to players of such high quality.
“At all clubs, important players are missed when they don’t play,” he said.
“If the question is ‘do we miss them?’ Of course. Reece is a top player and Chilwell also. When they’re at their best, they are the best full-backs in the world.
Pochettino might have to contend with the absence of up to 11 players for the upcoming west London derby against Fulham on Monday. This extensive injury list has been further compounded by the suspensions of Malo Gusto and striker Nicolas Jackson.
However, when Pochettino was questioned about Burnley manager Vincent Kompany’s suggestion of imposing limits on the number of games players can participate in to prevent injuries, the Argentine expressed uncertainty about the feasibility of such an idea.
“Maybe there are players that cannot cope with 70 games during the season, but another player can cope with that,” Pochettino said.
“Another player only can cope with a limited percentage, because the risk is massive to get injured again.
“It’s difficult to generalise. We cannot put some limit on the players. The players want to play every single game. When it’s a top player who wants to play, how do you say no?”
Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino is facing a growing list of unavailable players and is considering an intriguing tactical adjustment for the upcoming clash against Fulham.
With the increasing number of players unavailable for Pochettino’s squad, Chelsea may find themselves without a recognized striker when they face Fulham.
The absence of forward Nicolas Jackson, who received his fifth caution of the year last weekend and will consequently miss the Premier League match, has prompted Pochettino to contemplate a significant tactical shift.
Although Jackson is Chelsea’s sole natural No. 9, his disciplinary issues have left Pochettino frustrated. When asked about his options for a striker in light of Jackson’s absence.
When asked how much of a priority is addressing that in January, Pochettino said: “The good thing, the relationship is very good with the owners and the sporting directors. I think like I told before, when the transfer window was closed, I need to be involved, more involved now, in every single decision. I think we need to start identifying what we need for January.
“I think football is very dynamic, it’s the present always. Things can change until January. Now we need to work and try to recover [Christopher] Nkunku and of course Armando Broja and to try and provide the team more goals and to be more solid but of course, parallel to working to improvise to improve the team and the way we assess the team for the competition. But of course, we already start to work.”
Ben Chilwell and Reece James, the starting wing-backs, will also be absent on Monday.
Chilwell’s injury is ‘bad news,’ Pochettino ominously cautioned, and both players will undergo more medical exams.
James, another Chelsea defender, will also be out, and Malo Gusto will serve a suspension for his red card against Aston Villa.
