Author: Abigail Ampofo

Minnesota United has successfully negotiated a deal to bring Caden Clark, the United States Under-20 star, back to Major League Soccer.

The 20-year-old, who is currently on loan with Danish club Vendsyssel FF, is set to join the Loons in January 2024 under a two-year contract, featuring two club options, for an undisclosed transfer fee.

Clark initially made the move from Major League Soccer’s New York Red Bulls to the Bundesliga in 2021.

He was loaned back to the Red Bulls until 2023, during which time he trained with the German side but did not make a first-team appearance. Now, he is officially returning to the league where he made a name for himself as a young talent.

Born in Medina, Minnesota, Clark is returning to the state where he honed his skills as a football player.

He played for the Minnesota Thunder Academy from 2015 to 2017 before joining the FC Barcelona residence academy in Arizona from 2017 to 2020. Eventually, he signed his first professional contract with the Red Bulls.

Clark had been training with the Loons in the United States since early August before securing a loan back to Europe for the remainder of the campaign prior to finalizing the deal with MNUFC.

Given that the MLS secondary transfer window closed on August 2, it was not possible for him to compete in the league this season. Instead, he will link up with the Loons in January 2024.

“Caden Clark is a talented, young footballer who is excited to be joining our club. We feel we’ve now brought in and developed a core group of young players that will leave us in good stead and help set the standard for the club over next few years,” said MNUFC Head Coach Adrian Heath in a statement. “He’s a Minnesota kid, which is another big plus for us, he’s coming home.

“We know what he is capable of and we’ve seen his talent here in Major League Soccer. We are really thrilled to get him beginning next season and I know our fans will be excited as well.”

The 20-year-old will finish out the current calendar year in Denmark before joining up with Adrian Heath and MNUFC in January, 2024.

The availability of Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez for Argentina’s first World Cup qualifying match against Ecuador is uncertain.

During the second half of Manchester United’s defeat to Arsenal, the defender was substituted for Harry Maguire.

Following the match, the 25-year-old Martinez promptly departed the UK on a flight to join his Argentina teammates for the upcoming international break.

This left Erik ten Hag unaware of the severity of Martinez’s injury.

Offering an update on Martinez’s injury status during a press conference, the United manager stated that it’s improbable for the center-back to participate in the match against Ecuador on Thursday night.

However, there is a possibility that he could be fit to play in the game against Bolivia next Tuesday.

“Licha, as you know, had an issue with his feet,” Scaloni said, per United’s website. “By the way, he had surgery a while ago. In the last game, he was in pain and went out for precaution. They have done studies and he’s well. He’ll be with us if we want to risk him or not. It’s an uncomfortable situation and we have other teammates who can replace him well.

“It’s not necessary that we risk him. In any case, if he’s available, we’ll evaluate whether to use him or not. At first, for [the Ecuador] match, it’d be a little rushed; we’ll see for the second match.”

Argentina is beginning its path to the 2026 World Cup with matches against Bolivia and Ecuador in the qualifiers. During the World Cup in Qatar, the United defender did not secure a starting position, as manager Scaloni opted to begin with Nicolas Otamendi and Cristian Romero.

If the defender doesn’t participate in Argentina’s qualifying matches, his next appearance is likely to be with Manchester United against Brighton on September 16th.

Manchester United are refusing to confirm whether or not Antony remains available for selection despite acknowledging accusations made against the Brazil forward on Wednesday.

On Monday, Antony was dropped from the Brazil squad ahead of CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying games against Bolívia and Peru following fresh claims of domestic violence made against the footballer by former girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin, who has waived her right to anonymity in the UK.

United issued a statement on Wednesday acknowledging the accusations but refusing to comment on whether Antony is available to play for the club when approached by ESPN. Antony, 23, denies any wrongdoing.

The statement issued by United on Wednesday read: “Manchester United acknowledges the allegations made against Antony and notes that the police are conducting inquiries.

“Pending further information, the club will be making no further comments.

“As a club, we are taking this matter seriously, with consideration of the impact these allegations and subsequent reporting will have on survivors of abuse.”

Allegations were first made against Antony by Cavallin, a DJ and influencer, in June, before further claims were made on Monday.

It prompted the Brazil Football Confederation (CBF) to issue a statement later on Monday confirming that the forward had been released from international duty for games during the international break.

The statement issued by the CBF read: “Due to the facts that became public this Monday involving Manchester United player Antony, and which need to be investigated, and in order to safeguard the alleged victim, the player, the Brazilian team and the CBF, the organisation informs that the athlete has been withdrawn from the Brazilian team.”

The allegations are under investigation in Brazil and a complaint has also been made to police in the UK after Cavallin made a complaint to police about incidents she alleges occurred in Manchester.

Greater Manchester Police issued a statement Monday that read: “Greater Manchester Police is aware of the allegations made and enquiries remain ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding this report.”

In response, Antony posted a statement on social media on Monday in which he insisted all accusations “are false.”

It read: “Out of respect for my fans, friends and family, I feel obligated to speak publicly about the false accusations I have been a victim of. From the beginning, I have handled this issue seriously and with respect, providing the necessary clarifications to the police authority.

“The police inquest is under the cover of justice and therefore I cannot make its content public. However, I can say with confidence that the accusations are false and the evidence already produced and more to be produced show that I am innocent of the accusations made.”

Manchester United is facing a time crunch to offload midfielder Donny van de Beek, with interest from Fenerbahce and Galatasaray, according to sources cited by ESPN.

Van de Beek received news from manager Erik ten Hag that he is unlikely to feature for United this season, primarily due to the summer arrivals of Mason Mount and Sofyan Amrabat.

Despite the inclusion of injured players Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, the Netherlands international has been excluded from the 25-man squad for the upcoming Champions League campaign.

Additionally, there’s a risk that he may not make the cut for the 25-man Premier League squad when it’s announced on September 13.

While most transfer windows across Europe have closed, Turkish clubs have until September 15 to sign players, providing United with a one-week window to secure a deal.

Besiktas recently confirmed the acquisition of Eric Bailly on a one-year contract after United allowed the Ivory Coast defender, who had one year left on his contract, to move on a free transfer.

Sources indicate that United is open to considering any offers for Van de Beek.

Initially, there was hope that his departure might generate a transfer fee, but there’s now an acknowledgment that a loan move might be the more likely outcome.

Van de Beek, nominated for the Ballon d’Or in 2019, still has two years remaining on the five-year deal he signed when he joined United in a £35 million ($43 million) deal from Ajax in 2020.

His time at Old Trafford has been challenging, with just 60 appearances in all competitions over three years. He spent the latter half of the 2021–22 season on loan at Everton, making only seven appearances.

Last season, under his former Ajax manager, Ten Hag, he made 10 appearances but started just two Premier League games. His campaign was further hampered by a knee injury in January, which ruled him out for the remainder of the season.

Manchester United’s valuation on the New York Stock Exchange plummeted by more than UK£500 million (US$627.7 million) in the wake of a report that the Glazer family has decided not to sell.

Nine months ago, the owners announced a full sale was among the options being considered as part of a strategic review of the English soccer giants.

Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe made offers to buy the Premier League club, yet the interminable potential takeover process rumbles on as fans continue to protest against the Glazers.

That report led to more than UK£500 million (US$627.7 million) being knocked off United’s share price on Tuesday.

After the New York Stock Exchange reopened following the Labour Day holiday, the price plummeted from US$23.66 to US$19.35 by close.

United’s market capitalization—the company’s worth on the stock market – was left at US$3.15 billion after the 18.22 percent drop.

Earlier this year, the Glazer family reportedly valued United at UK£6 billion (US$7.53 billion).

France sit comfortably on top of their Euro 2024 qualification group but manager Didier Deschamps refuses to get carried away with their excellent start as they prepare to face Ireland on Thursday in Paris.

With four games played in Group B, France have the maximum number of points and have yet to concede a goal. Two teams qualify from the group so at the halfway stage, the French are almost there.

Almost is not good enough for their coach.

“I’ve already experienced situations with almost, it’s not qualified. I am pragmatic and factual, the players are aware of that too,” Deschamps told reporters on Wednesday.

“If that’s enough, that’s enough, but let’s take the points.”

France began their qualification journey with an impressive 4-0 victory over the Netherlands, but they faced a tougher challenge when they secured a 1-0 win against Ireland in Dublin back in March. Deschamps anticipates a similar level of competition as they prepare to face Ireland in Paris.

“The game in Dublin was complicated, we had played three days before against the Netherlands, and Ireland had played a friendly, there was a freshness about them,” he said.

“There is a quality to this Ireland team. It will take more presence and we need to create more defensive problems for them. They have grouped blocks, and it will be the case again tomorrow.”

The French manager also denied rumours that forward Randal Kolo Muani would not be available for the game with Ireland.

“He did his session yesterday, he was not in the gym, you have bad information. He had a very good session on the pitch,” Deschamps added.

Kylian Mbappe had been expected to appear at the press conference, but instead, it was left to vice-captain Antoine Griezmann to face the media.

The Atletico Madrid forward spoke of the challenges of playing a more midfield role for the French national side.

“It was complicated to find myself in this position, to quickly change between my position at Atletico and the one I have here,” Griezmann said.

“Whether I’m in midfield or up front, I’m going to give it my all and I know what I have to do.”

Griezmann is also expecting another tough game after the narrow win away to Ireland.

“(Goalkeeper) Mike Maignan saved the team two or three times. We expect a lot of intensity, we will have to keep the ball if we do not want to suffer so much,” he added.

After Ireland, France will travel to take on Germany in a friendly on September 12th.

Chelsea has managed to secure only four points from its first four Premier League matches of the season. Their latest loss was a 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge.

This setback has left them trailing leaders Manchester City by eight points already. Chilwell believes that he is one of the individuals responsible for elevating the team’s performance.

“It is such a young and new squad. It’s inexperienced in a way. There’s a new manager trying to impart his ideas and it is down to me and Reece [James, captain] to take on responsibility and be leaders in the group and guide the ship a little bit,” he told reporters while on England duty.

“Especially in the last few weeks in what could be seen as a bit of a tough time. I kind of just try to guide the ship through that, stay confident and know what talent we have in the squad. We are confident and also have a great manager. We are very aware [of what’s wrong] but confident we can turn it around very quickly.”

Despite facing challenges early in the season, the English international has been thoroughly impressed by the work of coach Mauricio Pochettino, who took charge of the team in the summer.

“What the manager has come in and done is brilliant,” he added. “We have all bought into what he is trying to do at the club. With such a young, exciting squad. I think it will be a good future. With a bit more patience, we will come good.”

After international duty with England, Chilwell and his Blues teammates will return to Premier League action with a game against Bournemouth on September 17.

Real Madrid has unveiled a video on social media showcasing the advanced technology behind the Santiago Bernabeu’s innovative retractable pitch.

Over the past several months, Madrid has undertaken an ambitious renovation project for their iconic stadium, increasing its capacity to approximately 85,000 spectators.

This substantial undertaking, financed by JP Morgan and Bank of America, has incurred an expenditure of nearly €1 billion.

The club’s supporters can now witness the prominent renovations, with one notable feature being the introduction of the new retractable pitch.

🏟️🌱👀 ¡El césped retráctil del Bernabéu como nunca lo habías visto!#RealFootball pic.twitter.com/r2TkzsiNPv

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) September 5, 2023

Madrid made a triumphant return to their revamped stadium with a 2-1 victory against Getafe in their first home match of the 2023-24 La Liga season.

Despite being temporarily without a home, Los Blancos has had a strong start to the season, currently leading the league. Jude Bellingham’s outstanding performance has played a significant role in their early success.

With the international break approaching, Ancelotti has an opportunity to assess his team’s performance in the opening matches and prepare for a determined title challenge.

Their upcoming fixture is another home game, this time against Real Sociedad on September 17th.

Ghanaian international Felix Afena-Gyan is facing an extended period on the sidelines following an injury sustained during a training session with AC Monza on Monday, September 5th.

Afena-Gyan has suffered a fracture in his left metatarsal, and initial scans have already been conducted. The complete severity of the injury will be determined after further evaluations.

The club issued an official statement, stating, “In the past few hours, Felix Afena-Gyan underwent diagnostic tests which highlighted the fracture of the base of the fifth metatarsal of his left foot,” wrote the club on their official website.

“The outcome of the radiological investigation will be subjected to further specialist evaluations for the appropriate indications. Afena-Gyan was injured during training on Monday.”

Afena-Gyan, 20, has a goal for AC Monza in the Coppa Italia but is yet to register his first in the 2023/24 Italian Serie A after three games.

On Wednesday, the Presidential Election Petitions Court issued a verdict stating that the Labour Party (LP) and its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, were unable to prove that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) intentionally delayed the prompt uploading of polling unit results to its Results Viewing Portal (IReV) with the aim of manipulating the results in support of President Bola Tinubu from the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“The petitioner made the allegation of non-compliance a substantial part of their case. By the provisions of Section 135(2) of the Electoral Act, they are required to show how such non-compliance substantially affected them. If they fail to show the same, the petition fails.”

The petitioner further raised accusations of result suppression, overvoting, and vote inflation, contending that the elections were rendered invalid due to corrupt practises based on the comprehensive evidence provided.

In the cases of Rivers and Benue states, the petitioner claimed that INEC engaged in extensive misrepresentations during the collation process, uploading fictitious and inaccurate vote counts.

They argued that had the correct procedures been followed, they would have secured a significant victory in these states.

However, the Tribunal found that, aside from the figures reported in these two states, the other allegations lacked clarity and specificity.

Apart from stating material particulars, other crimes must be pleaded and clearly set out, the court ruled. “The proof must be beyond reasonable doubt. The petitioner must produce two sets of results, one genuine, one false.”

Following a remarkable start to his Major League Soccer career, Lionel Messi, at the age of 36, is returning to international duty with Argentina as South America begins its lengthy journey to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, commencing on Thursday.

Just nine months ago, Messi achieved the pinnacle of his illustrious career by leading Argentina to a World Cup victory in Qatar, solidifying his status as the greatest player of his generation.

Since that magical night in Doha, the 36-year-old football icon has experienced a period of significant change. After a contentious departure from Paris Saint-Germain, Messi was pursued by Saudi Arabia before ultimately choosing to embark on a new chapter of his career with Inter Miami.

This decision has proven to be a wise one, as Messi and his family have smoothly adapted to life in Florida while enjoying success on the pitch. They have led Inter to their first championship and into the US Open Cup final.

Gerard “Tata” Martino, the former Argentina and Barcelona player who now coaches Inter, believes that Messi has found a sense of liberation after finally guiding Argentina to World Cup victory last year, following several heartbreaking near-misses in major championships.

As South America’s qualifying campaign begins this week, the lingering question is whether Messi will still be part of the Argentina squad when they seek to defend their title in the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Convocado 🇦🇷📞

Leo Messi has been called up to represent the Argentine national team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.

Details: https://t.co/qJkbCh4QWa
Detalles: https://t.co/2qwNQxvkrN pic.twitter.com/M2sdliHHqV

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) August 31, 2023

“Even I don’t know when. It’ll happen when it happens,” Messi told Argentine media.

“After winning everything, I want to enjoy the moment and wait for time to tell me when it’s the moment.

“Logically, given my age, one would expect it to be soon, but I don’t know for sure.”

‘Door always open’
Argentina’s World Cup-winning manager, Lionel Scaloni, is certainly not in the mood to force the issue.

Scaloni is on record as saying that a place in the 2026 squad will be Messi’s for the asking if he chooses.

“I think Messi can get to the next World Cup,” Scaloni said in January.

“It will depend a lot on what he wants, on whether he feels good.

“The door will always be open. He is happy on the pitch and it would be very nice for us.”

While questions may continue to swirl around Messi’s future in the future, there is less uncertainty about Argentina’s prospects for qualification for the World Cup.

The expanded 48-team finals in 2026 mean that six of the 10 teams competing in South American qualifying, which will be completed in September 2025, will qualify automatically for the finals. The seventh-place team will advance to a play-off.

Given Argentina’s strength, it would take an upset of mammoth proportions for them to fail to qualify automatically for 2026.

#SelecciónMayor ¡Bienvenidos! 😍

Se completó la nómina de futbolistas citados para la doble fecha de eliminatorias. #ModoSelección 💪 pic.twitter.com/wGaa1pMXOa

— 🇦🇷 Selección Argentina ⭐⭐⭐ (@Argentina) September 5, 2023

Messi and Argentina’s qualifying journey gets underway with a home fixture against Ecuador at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires on Thursday, before the team faces Bolivia in La Paz next Tuesday.

Other games on Thursday see Paraguay take on Peru, while Colombia hosts Venezuela.

Friday sees two more fixtures, with Uruguay playing Chile in Montevideo while five-time World Cup winners Brazil make their entrance against Bolivia in Belem.

Brazil enter qualifying in a state of flux, with a new manager in Fernando Diniz, who took over from predecessor Tite in the wake of the Selecao’s World Cup quarterfinal exit to Croatia last year.

Whether Diniz will be in charge when Brazil arrive at the finals, though, is anyone’s guess, with the South Americans long believed to be targeting Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti to lead the team to the finals.

Brazil’s preparations for qualifying have also been disrupted by controversy around Manchester United winger Antony, who was dropped from the squad this week after revelations of assault made by an ex-girlfriend.

Antony, who denies the claims, has been replaced by Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus.

The Spanish soccer star Jenni Hermoso, aged 33, has lodged a formal legal complaint regarding an unwanted kiss from football federation chief Luis Rubiales, which occurred after Spain’s victory in the Women’s World Cup.

This information was confirmed by the national prosecutor’s office on Wednesday.
Hermoso gave her testimony on Tuesday and the complaint will be processed “as soon as possible”, the prosecutor added.

With the complaint, Rubiales could face criminal charges in addition to the ongoing inquiry by Spain’s top sports court for “serious misconduct” and an investigation by world soccer governing body FIFA, which has provisionally suspended Rubiales from office.

Neither Hermoso’s representatives nor Rubiales were immediately available for comment.Rubiales grabbed Hermoso’s head and kissed her on the lips during the medal-giving ceremony that followed Spain’s 1-0 victory over England in the Women’s World Cup final on August 20th.

🚨 | Spanish FA president captured kissing Jenni Hermoso on the lips during ceremony. The player later said that she did not enjoy it. pic.twitter.com/Gh7NUWzZnU

— SPORTbible (@sportbible) August 20, 2023

Late last month, the prosecutor for Spain’s High Court said Rubiales could face a sexual assault charge, which carries a prison term of between one and four years if Hermoso were to file a complaint.

The High Court has jurisdiction over the case as the incident took place abroad – in Sydney, Australia.

Hermoso said she did not want to be kissed, and that she felt “vulnerable and a victim of an aggression”.

Rubiales, who has so far refused to resign despite heavy pressure, said the kiss was “spontaneous, mutual, euphoric and consensual”.

Rubiales’ behaviour has sparked outrage in Spain and abroad. He also grabbed his crotch while standing close to Spain’s Queen Letizia and her 16-year-old daughter during the final match.

Dani Carvajal has weighed in on the debate
Profimedia

The Spanish men’s team criticised the country’s soccer boss on Monday for his “unacceptable behaviour”, but one of the team’s captains, Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal, sparked criticism later for arguably questioning Hermoso’s status as a victim in an interview for Spanish radio Onda Cero.

“There are legal bodies that are considering whether Jennifer is really a victim of something that is being investigated. There are people who have to decide whether there is an offender and a victim,” Carvajal said on Tuesday.

“So we can’t take a position or condemn one side or the other beforehand without really knowing what has happened, what has been stipulated because Jennifer has not yet filed a complaint,” he added, unaware that Hermoso had met with prosecutors and filed a criminal complaint earlier in the day.

In an effort to explain his words in a press conference on Wednesday, Carvajal went further and said that “Rubiales should be supported in the same way as Jenni Hermoso” in this process.

“I can understand that Jenni is going through a bad time, we have to show our solidarity. However, I don’t think the president is having a good time either. I am not here to judge anyone,” Carvajal said.

“The presumption of innocence is a constitutional right. You cannot victimise or blame anyone.”

Jorge Vilda, who was closely aligned with Rubiales, was dismissed from his position as the coach of the women’s team on Tuesday. Subsequently, the RFEF (Royal Spanish Football Federation) disclosed that Montse Tome had been appointed as his successor, marking her the first woman to lead the team.

Former Ghanaian national team player John Paintsil has shared valuable advice with West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus, emphasising the importance of prioritising his family if he aims for success.

Paintsil stressed that family should always be the foremost consideration, highlighting that once his football career comes to an end, his family will be his ultimate support network.

Having also been associated with West Ham United from 2006 to 2008, Paintsil emphasised that his own family was his utmost priority, as their well-being could have a significant impact on his career.

Speaking to Graphic Sports, Painstil advised Kudus, who joined the Hammers from Dutch giants Ajax in August in a five-year deal worth £38m ”There is life after football and getting to West Ham, I will urge him to support his family more so that when he finishes his career, they will say that during your playing days, this is what you did”.

Paintsil, 43, disclosed that he was speaking from experience, adding that Kudus should adhere seriously to his advice if he wants to have a sound mind to do what he loves to do best on the field.

”I am speaking from experience because when the family is happy, you are also happy but when they are not happy, it affects your play on the pitch’. So that’s the little advice I will give him; he should focus more on the family”, he advised.

Quizzed on the impact Kudus could bring to David Moyes’s side, Paintsil said the club was confident in his qualities, hence the reason why they splashed the cash to secure his service.

“He is a young player; that’s why they signed him for five years. West Ham doesn’t sign players like that. Before they give you that number of years, it means they’ve seen something in you, and they know that in two or three years’ time, they can market him and make more money.

“Kudus is young and experienced, and he knows what he is looking for. For me, if the player is happy with what he gets then that is it”, he said.

Kudus Mohammed is presently part of Coach Chris Hughton’s squad as they gear up for the upcoming African Cup of Nations qualifier against the Central African Republic.

“The match is scheduled to take place at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Thursday, September 7, 2023.

Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park, with a capacity of 5,000 and the home ground of Bechem United, a Ghana Premier League team, is currently undergoing extensive renovations in preparation for the upcoming season.

The stadium is receiving a thorough makeover, including the repainting of all seats and the replacement of any damaged ones. Additionally, the dressing rooms and other administrative offices are being given a fresh coat of paint.

Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park has been officially approved as one of the venues by the Club Licencing Board, ensuring it meets the necessary standards for the new Ghana Premier League season.

In the 2022/23 season, Bechem United finished in third place with 54 points, and they are determined to surpass last season’s performance under their new manager, Bismark Kobby Mensah.

To conclude their pre-season preparations, Bechem United will engage in a friendly match against Aduana Stars at the Nana Agyeman Badu I Park in Dormaa on Wednesday, September 6, at 3:00 pm.

In their first fixture of the upcoming season, Bechem United will travel to Nana Professor Koromansa II Park in Nosatre to take on Nsoatreman on Sunday, September 17.

The former Manchester City midfielder, Ilkay Gundogan has conceded that he might have remained in the Premier League if Manchester City had initiated contract talks sooner.

Gundogan departed Manchester City after seven years at the beginning of the summer, ultimately joining Barcelona on a free transfer.

It is reported that the German declined a contract extension from Manchester City in May, citing dissatisfaction with the terms, including the contract’s duration.

However, he has now disclosed that the length of the contract was not the sole factor influencing his decision to exchange Manchester for Catalonia.

“In the end, it wasn’t about a year or two. It didn’t hit the runtime. The city waited a relatively long time for the talks to really get intense. If that had happened a little earlier, the starting position would have been different,” Gundogan told German publication Bild.

Still, Gundogan also conceded that he may have picked the right time to move on: “So in the end, it was the perfect ending, there couldn’t have been a better time. It was also my childhood dream to play for FC Barcelona.”

Gundogan is set to be part of the squad for Germany as they face off against Japan and France in two high-profile friendly matches this week.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano says Qatari team Al-Arabi is nearing the acquisition of PSG midfielder Marco Verratti.

The 30-year-old Verratti has been left out of PSG’s Champions League squad and has received instructions from manager Luis Enrique and sporting director Luis Campos to seek a new club.

In the Qatari transfer market, which remains open until September 18th, PSG is seeking approximately €50 million for the services of the Italian international.

On a separate note, Al Duhail is making significant progress towards securing a loan deal for Aston Villa forward Philippe Coutinho. The Brazilian international declined offers from Besiktas and Real Betis in favour of a move to Qatar.

Veteran Ghanaian actor Akrobeto paid a visit to the Black Stars players during their training session on Tuesday, September 5, 2023.

In a video shared by the official Black Stars’ social media account, Akrobeto was seen exchanging greetings with the players. He had conversations with players such as Kudus Mohammed, Richard Ofori, Andre Ayew, and Jordan Ayew during his visit.

During his time with Andre, the comedian engaged in a lively chat, sharing laughter and jokes in a heartwarming moment.

The Black Stars had a productive training session as they aimed to finish strong in their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

Their final training session, open to both media and fans for the first 15 minutes, is scheduled for Wednesday.

The team is set to face the Central African Republic on Thursday, September 7, 2023, in their last qualifying match. Ghana, currently leading Group E with 9 points and an unbeaten record, needs to avoid defeat to secure their spot in the AFCON.

The match is slated to commence at 16:00 GMT at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.

Kepa Arrizabalaga has expressed his unwavering commitment to joining Real Madrid on loan, even though he was on the verge of a move to Bayern Munich when he learned of Real Madrid’s interest.

The 28-year-old goalkeeper has already made two starts for Madrid in the current season, stepping in on short notice due to Thibaut Courtois’ extended absence caused by an ACL tear.

Kepa played a pivotal role in their 1-0 victory against Celta Vigo and their 2-1 win over Getafe.

“It happened fast,” Kepa told Marca in an interview on Tuesday. “At Chelsea, Pochettino wanted me to stay, he said I was going to play, but I thought a change would be good for me.

“Thomas Tuchel called me, and we were close to going to Munich.

“Then with circumstances, the injury [to Courtois] created the possibility… In the end Real Madrid is Real Madrid. When Real Madrid call you, there isn’t much to think about.”

Inspectors have determined that the helicopter crash resulting in the tragic demise of Leicester City chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha and four other passengers was indeed a “tragic accident.”

A comprehensive report compiled over five years by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has disclosed that the crash was precipitated by mechanical failure stemming from a seized tail rotor bearing.

The report characterises the crash as “inevitable,” as the bearing malfunction prompted a sharp right turn, ultimately leading to the helicopter losing control.

Pilot Eric Swaffer was found to have been incapable of taking significant corrective action, and he was absolved of any culpable errors in the incident.

As per the BBC, the helicopter’s voice recordings also revealed the pilot’s final words before the helicopter crashed. “I’ve no idea what’s going on,” he said shortly before the aircraft spun to the ground and landed on a concrete step.

Tragically, Mr. Swaffer’s partner, Izabela Roza Lechowicz, a seasoned pilot, also lost her life in the crash. Alongside her, Nusara Suknamai and Kaveporn Punpare, two of Mr. Srivaddhanaprabha’s staff members, also perished.

The investigation’s findings additionally revealed that, although four out of the five passengers initially survived the crash impact, they succumbed to a subsequent fire that rapidly engulfed the wreckage in under a minute.

In a statement, Chief Inspector of Air Accidents Crispin Orr officially confirmed that the incident was indeed an accident and extended his heartfelt condolences to all those affected by the tragedy.

“This was a tragic accident in which five people sadly lost their lives. Our thoughts are with their loved ones, and everyone affected,” he said. “The nature of the failure in the tail rotor was really very serious, of a sort that left them in a very poor situation.

“There was nothing more that the pilot could do.”

Mr Srivaddhanaprabha bought Leicester in 2010 for a reported fee of £38 million and became a legend within the city after overseeing a fairy-tale Premier League triumph in 2016.

Barcelona have agreements in place for both Alejandro Balde and Lamine Yamal to extend their contracts with the club, according to Marca.

Balde, 19, has emerged as Barça’s first-choice left-back under Xavi Hernandez and is set to sign a new deal linking him to the Blaugrana until 2028.

“My agents are working on it, but everything is going well,” Balde told Mundo Deportivo on Wednesday. “My intention is to stay and have a long career with Barça.”

As for Lamine Yamal, his contract extension can only run until 2026 due to his age. Having turned 16 in July, he is subject to a limitation that prevents him from signing contracts longer than three years until he reaches the age of 18.

Despite his youth, the talented forward has made a significant impact on Barcelona’s season. He has started in three out of their four LaLiga matches and has earned a call-up to the Spain national team for the European Championship qualifiers against Georgia and Cyprus this week.

Both Alejandro Balde and Lamine Yamal are under the representation of agent Jorge Mendes.

Marca suggests that these contract agreements may be officially announced following the international break, with Balde also away on international duty with the Spain squad.

Manchester United has secured the signing of Japanese sensation Hinata Miyazawa on a permanent contract, edging out Liverpool in the race for her signature.

Miyazawa achieved remarkable success at the recently concluded Women’s World Cup, where she became the first non-European player to claim the Golden Boot Award.

Welcome to the club, Hinata! ✍️🇯🇵#MUWomen pic.twitter.com/ZyIdM56cAa

— Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) September 6, 2023

She scored five goals in four games, propelling Japan to the quarterfinals.

The talented midfielder is now ready to showcase her skills in England.

While both Manchester United and Liverpool were vying to acquire the Japanese star, it was ultimately the Red Devils who successfully completed the deal.

Marc Skinner’s side are currently conducting their pre-season training in Germany and are set to face Bayern Munich in a friendly on Wednesday.

Atletico Madrid are expecting Antoine Griezmann to ask to leave the club next summer, according to Sport.

Despite having three years remaining on his contract, the 32-year-old is keen to follow Lionel Messi’s lead and make the switch to MLS at the end of the 2022–23 campaign.

Atletico Madrid is aware that multiple clubs in the U.S. have already made offers to his representatives, although the report does not identify which.

The LaLiga side is monitoring the situation carefully but would be open to accepting an offer if it met their valuation.

Griezmann rejoined Atletico from Barcelona for a fee of €20 million last October and quickly became a key player in LaLiga, where he contributed 31 goals in 38 appearances.

Griezmann remains a starter for Diego Simeone and scored in the 7-0 LaLiga win over Rayo Vallecano on Aug. 28.

Rasmus Hojlund has disclosed the conversation he had with Casemiro when the Brazilian player grabbed him by his shirt during his Manchester United debut against Arsenal.

The Danish forward, who joined Manchester United from Atalanta this summer, made his debut at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal last weekend.

Shortly after Casemiro came on for Anthony Martial, fans witnessed Casemiro clutching Hojlund’s shirt and engaging in an intense exchange of words. Hojlund has now shared what Casemiro told him, emphasising that the exchange had nothing negative about it.

Speaking at a press conference while on international duty with Denmark, Hojlund said: “He just said something in Spanish: ‘Vamos’ or something like that. He was happy that I gave the team perhaps a slightly different dynamic than what you get from Martial.

“He’s maybe a little more technically strong and looks down the gaps where I like to take the fights. After all, he hadn’t seen me play before, so he told me he was pleasantly surprised to see me play.”

Hojlund made a strong impression during his debut for Manchester United, but unfortunately, the match ended in defeat as late goals from Declan Rice and Gabriel Jesus secured a 3-1 victory for Arsenal.

During the game, the striker went down inside the Arsenal box after a collision with Gabriel and appealed for a foul, but the referee did not award a penalty.

The next opportunity to see the new Red Devils signing in action will be when he represents Denmark in their Euro 2024 qualifying match against San Marino on September 7th.

Jordan Henderson believes that Liverpool missed out on a great opportunity by not signing Jude Bellingham and thinks they “should have just paid the money.” He also mentioned that FSG (Fenway Sports Group), the owners of Liverpool, “always have a plan.”

The former Liverpool captain disclosed that he attempted to persuade FSG to acquire Bellingham before Real Madrid secured his services for a substantial €103 million (£89 million or $112 million) fee from Borussia Dortmund.

Bellingham had been a top target for Liverpool, but they withdrew from the transfer pursuit due to the high costs involved.

Instead, Liverpool signed Alexis MacAllister from Brighton for £35 million ($44m) and Dominik Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig for £60 million ($76m).

However, with Bellingham making a sensational start at the Santiago Bernabeu, scoring five goals and providing an assist in just four matches, Henderson expressed his regret that Liverpool didn’t go the extra mile to sign the midfielder.

“They’re not going to go and spend a ridiculous amount of fees and wages on players because it will upset the structure, as much as I tried with certain players in the past!” he said to The Athletic.

“They stick to their principles and it has worked. Maybe not to the owners but you can probably think of certain players that I might have tried for in the past, especially recently! Looking back now, he’s on fire so (laughing) I might have thought we should have just paid the money!”

Nonetheless, Henderson insisted that FSG always “have a plan” and are in control of things so that squad harmony is not disturbed.

“In the end, they have a structure, they have a plan and if it doesn’t fall within that, then they’re not going to change for it. Because it has a knock-on effect,” he said.

“It’s great to sign these amazing players with loads of wages and it’s amazing for everyone. But in the end, you’ll have different players coming in wanting different money, you’ve got players within saying, ‘Well, I want…’. It causes loads of different issues within.

“They always have a plan, always have a strategy and they know what they’re doing. The most important thing is that they care about the club and that’s the biggest thing I would say about them,” he added.

Henderson will link up with Bellingham during the Three Lions’ two upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers against Ukraine and Scotland on September 8 and 11, respectively.

Nigerian striker Victor Boniface has made the shortlist for the Rookie of the Month award in the Bundesliga due to his impressive start with Bayer Leverkusen, as reported by PUNCH Sports Extra.

To be eligible for this award, a player must be under 23 years old on matchday 1 of their debut season in the Bundesliga.

Boniface, who joined Bayer Leverkusen this summer from the Belgian club Union Saint-Gilloise, has made an incredible impact by scoring four goals and providing two assists in just three league games in Germany.

The 22-year-old scored a brace in his most recent game, with his first goal being selected among the top five goals of matchday three in the Bundesliga.

Boniface, who received his first call-up to the Super Eagles squad for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Sao Tome, faces strong competition from German-Nigerian goalkeeper Noah Atubolu, who plays for SC Freiburg, and RB Leipzig winger Xavi Simons.

Atubolu has kept one clean sheet in three appearances for Freiburg, while Simons has notched up two goals and three assists in just three Bundesliga games this season.

Boniface’s outstanding performance on matchday 3 earned him a remarkable rating of 9.7 according to the renowned statistical website Whoscored.

He scored two goals and provided an assist as Bayer Leverkusen secured a 5-1 victory over Darmstadt at the BayArena.

Whoscored’s data shows that only Brighton’s Evan Ferguson received a better rating of 10.0 across the top five leagues in England, Germany, Italy, France, and Spain.

For context, Barcelona’s Jules Kounde and Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich were rated 8.8, while Manchester City’s Nathan Ake earned a 7.9 rating.

Notably, Koln coach Steffen Baumgart expressed high praise for Boniface, stating that he would have chosen Boniface over Harry Kane if he were in charge at Bayern Munich.

Ghana Premier League team, FC Samartex, has officially revealed their kits for the 2023/24 football season. These kits were produced by Icarus, a United States-based kit manufacturer.

Samartex and Icarus entered into a partnership agreement during the 2021/22 football season, designating Icarus as their official kit supplier.

The new jerseys include their traditional green and black home kits, as well as orange blended with white.

The goalkeeper kits feature a unique artistic blend of red and black for the upcoming season.

In an official statement, the club expressed their pride in this “exquisite collection of replica jerseys designed to embody the spirit and essence of our beloved club.”

In the 2022/23 season, Samartex finished 10th with 46 points after 34 games.

To kick off their 2023/24 season, the Samreboi-based team will host Aduana Stars, two-time Premier League champions, at the Nsenkyire Sports Arena on Friday, September 15, 2023.

Our passionate supporters will not only come to the Nsenkyire Sports Arena to show support for our team on the field, but they will also make a startling statement by donning our captivating @IcarusFCphl-inspired replica jerseys. pic.twitter.com/o5NzrRAv9r

— FC Samartex 2023/24 Ghana Premier League Champions (@FcSamartex1996) September 5, 2023

"👕| BREATHE IN THE BEAUTY

– Introducing our striking @IcarusFCphl kits!

– A testament to our rich heritage and inspiring traditions, these shirts are designed to ignite a fire within our players.

– The unique features serve as a
constant reminder for our lads, pic.twitter.com/GeNWv77Ihn

— FC Samartex 2023/24 Ghana Premier League Champions (@FcSamartex1996) September 5, 2023

Al Shabab FC has confirmed the signing of Atletico Madrid midfielder Yannick Carrasco.

The Saudi Pro League team made the announcement, revealing that the Belgium international has agreed to a three-year contract for a reported fee of €15 million.

Carrasco, aged 30, was in the final year of his contract with Atletico. This marks the second time the former Monaco star has departed from Atletico since his initial arrival at the Madrid club in 2015.

Carrasco previously made a move to the Chinese club Dalian Pro in 2018, only to return to Atletico Madrid two years later.

📸 Yannick Carrasco With AlShabab Until 2026 ✍🏻🤍🖤#Carrasco_is_a_lion #YallaShabab pic.twitter.com/AUPLjqRyIU

— AlShabab Saudi Club (@AlShabab_EN) September 4, 2023