Reports suggest , Barcelona’s young midfielder Gavi is reportedly unhappy with the club’s recent signingof Ilkay Gundogan during the ongoing summer transfer window.
Gundogan, who had a successful seven-year stint at Manchester City, has now joined Barcelona on a two-year contract, leaving behind a successful period with the English club that included winning multiple trophies, including the UEFA Champions League.
The arrival of Gundogan at Barcelona has been widely regarded as a notable achievement for the reigning La Liga champions after his impressive performances in leading Manchester City to a historic treble in the 2022-23 season.
However, this acquisition seems to have unsettled one of the rising stars within the Barcelona squad.
Gavi unhappy with Gundogan move
As revealed by El Nacional and reported by Sportskeeda, Gavi is concerned that his playing time and opportunities will be diminished under the management of Xavi next season.
The 18-year-old prodigy, who only missed two matches during Barca’s triumphant La Liga campaign and made a total of 49 appearances, fears that he will be overshadowed by Gundogan and subsequently benched.
Despite recently renewing his contract, the Spanish midfielder is struggling to come to terms with this transfer.
Gavi’s apprehensions may be well-founded, considering the wealth of experience and expertise the formerBorussia Dortmund star brings to the team.
Gavi inks new Barca deal
Meanwhile, Barcelona are determined to hold on to young starlet Gavi and has offered the Spanish midfielder a new 5-year deal at Camp Nou, Sports Brief reported.
Gavi is regarded as one of the best young players in the world and has been monitored by several top clubs in Europe since his debut in 2021 for Barcelona.
According to reports, the proposed new deal by Barcelona to the 17-year-old midfielder, whose present deal runs out in 2023, will boast of a mouth-watering € 1 billion release clause.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) are in a statistical tie for first place in the fight for the parliamentary seat, according to the Executive Director of Global Data Analytics, Mussa Dankwa.
He has consequently urged neither party to celebrate just yet, but rather to put more effort towards winning the election, which might happen today, Tuesday, June 27, 2023.
In an interview with Eyewitness News on Citi Radio in Accra on Monday, Mr. Dankwa made this statement.
Mr Dankwa said this in an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM in Accra on Monday.
“The outcome of the polls suggests that the race is too close to call meaning that it is statistically dead heat, meaning there is a tie.
NPP’s candidate leads with 46.7 percent and NDC’s James Gyakye Quayson with 45.6 percent.
That represents 1.1 percent margin between them. And mind you the margin of error is 1.9 percent so that margin of leading is within the polls’ margin of error, so it is dead heat according to pollsters,” he stated.
Mr. Dankwa said 6.9% of voters remained undecided, making their votes pivotal in determining the outcome of the election.
He said the survey involved 2,500 participants, providing valuable insights into the preferences of the electorates ahead of the by-election.
Both candidates are vying for the support of theundecided voters, knowingthat their decision will shape the final results.
Meanwhile, the survey by Global Info Analytics also revealed that Charles Opoku has lost a 19% lead he enjoyed four weeks ago to a 1.1% lead.
On the issue of the court case, when voters who voted for Mr. Opoku were asked if they were influenced to vote for him because they feared Mr. Gyakye Quayson’s court case could be an issue, 20% of them said they intended to vote for Mr. Opoku because of Mr. Gyakye Quayson’s court case.
The poll also showed that 44% of NDC voters who intend to vote for Mr. Opoku were doing so because of Mr. Gyakye Quayson’s court case.
In the key battleground electoral areas of Endwa, Breku, Dominase, Bediadua, and Praso, undecided voters average over 10% of voters.
In an interview on Monday, Gladys Pinkrah, the Central Regional Director of the Electoral Commission (EC), assured that the EC is fully prepared for the upcoming by-election in Assin North, scheduled for Tuesday.
Pinkrah stated that all the necessary election materials have arrived in Assin North and will be distributed to the respective polling stations on Tuesday morning.
The EC expressed confidence in its readiness to conduct a smooth and successful by-election.
“We have received all our election materials and have packaged them so early in the morning we will dispatch them to the polling centers.
We have also trained our election officials, so we are going to have all the representatives of the political parties, NPP, LPG and NDC at the polling stations before we have deployment,” she stated.
Voters in the Assin North constituency in the Central Region will go to the polls today, Tuesday, June 27, to elect their next representative in Parliament.
Three candidates are vying for the seat: James Gyakye Quayson of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Charles Opoku of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and Bernice Enyonam Sefenu of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG).
The Electoral Commission (EC) scheduled the by-election for June 27 following the nullification of the 2020 parliamentary election won by Mr Quayson.
The Supreme Court ordered Parliament to expunge Mr Quayson’s name from its records after it found that he held dual citizenship at the time of filing his nomination forms.
A recent survey by Global Info Analytics shows that Mr. Opoku of the NPP has a slight lead overMr. Quayson of the NDC.
The survey, which was conducted between June 15 and 20, 2022, found that 46.7% of respondents said they would vote for Mr. Opoku, while 45.6% said they would vote for Mr. Quayson.
The remaining 6.9% of respondents said they were undecided.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), George Akuffo Dampare, has faced criticism from Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, a Member of Parliament (MP) from theNational Democratic Congress (NDC) representing South Dayi.
This criticism comes in response to a directive by the IGP for all police bodyguards of MPs to surrender their weapons to the nearest police station in Assin North ahead of the by-election scheduled for Tuesday, June 27.
While the IGP stated that the directive was aimed at ensuring a peaceful election, Dafeamekpor expressed his disagreement, asserting that the directive was unconstitutional.
Speaking to journalists in Assin North, he argued that the IGP did not possess the authority to issue such a directive.
However, speaking to journalists in Assin North, Dafeamekpor said the IGP had no right to give such a directive, as it was unconstitutional.
“Bodyguards attached to MPs are part of their conditions of service. The IGP has no power to vary the conditions of service of a sitting MP in the same way he has no power to vary the conditions of service of a superior court judge in this republic.”
“So for him to issue a statement and say that Police bodyguards of MPs should surrender their weapons to the nearest Police Station is unlawful and unconstitutional,” he stated.
Dafeamekpor said thedirective was an attempt to intimidate and harass MPs, and he called on the IGP to withdraw it immediately.
The directive by the IGP has been met with mixed reactions. Some people have argued that it is a necessary measure to ensure a peaceful election, while others have criticized it as being unconstitutional.
President Akufo-Addo’s recent remarks regarding thelikelihood of Gyakye Quayson facing imprisonment in the ongoing legal tussle have sparked controversy and ignited debates among political observers and individuals alike.
One of such individuals is multiple awarding-winning investigative journalist and writer Manasseh Awuni Azure, who has raised questions about the President’s apparent certainty regarding the outcome of the ongoing legal case, expressing his bewilderment at the President’s confidence in determining the fate of the embattled Member of Parliament.
In a Facebook post, Manasseh posed the following query: “Akufo-Addo has told the people of Assin North not to vote for Gyakye Quayson because he cannot work from prison. Why is the president so sure that Mr. Quayson will end up in prison?”
Manasseh’s comments followed President Akufo-Addo’s speech at a rally where he addressed the constituents of Assin North, urging them not to support Gyakye Quayson due to concerns about his ability to fulfill his duties while incarcerated.
“We should not support or vote for individuals who are entangled in legal controversies that may eventually lead them to face imprisonment.”
He has raised the issue of whether such statements could potentially constitute contempt of court.
“Is this not contempt of court? How does he know the outcome of a case that is just starting?” he quizzed.
Background: James Gyakye Quayson, the former Member of Parliament for Assin North, has been embroiled in a legal battle regarding his dual citizenship status.
After winning the election, concerns were raised regarding his eligibility to hold public office. The Supreme Court of Ghana ruled in favor of the petitioners, declaring his election null and void.
To fill the vacant parliamentary seat, a by-election is scheduled for tomorrow, June 26, 2023.
Gyakye Quayson will contest on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), while Charles Opoku represents the New Patriotic Party.
Reports suggest that,Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has reportedly compiled a list of 11 players he intends to offload in order to generate funds for the club’s summer transfer pursuits.
Following a promising first season in the Premier League, Ten Hag is anticipated to receive substantial backing from Manchester United in terms of acquiring new signings.
Under Ten Hag’s guidance, the team finally ended their trophy drought of over five years by securing victory in the Carabao Cup in February. Additionally, they achieved a commendable third-place finish in the standings, trailing behind Arsenal and their rivals, Manchester City.
According to The Mirror, Ten Hag is keen to make new signings this summer in a bid to strengthen his squad in preparation for next season.
However, he is equally aware he must trim his current squad to accommodate the players he wants to add to his team.
Ten Hag wants 11 players sold
Reports claim the former Ajax boss has since drawn up an 11-member transfer list of players he is keen to offload in the coming weeks in order to raise over £100million in transfer fees to help transform his squad.
Long-serving defenders Axel Tuanzebe and Phil Jones have already quit Man United after the expiry of their deals, while goalkeeper David de Gea is likely to depart as well.
Dean Henderson has also been touted to seal a permanent transfer, with United expected to recoup around £25million in a transfer fee from the English shotstopper.
As reported by Manchester Evening News, the duo of Alex Telles and Eric Bailly, who spent last season on loan at Sevilla and Marseille, respectively, are viewed as the ‘must-sells’ by boss Ten Hag.
However, he is equally aware he must trim his current squad to accommodate the players he wants to add to his team.
The same applies to Brandon Williams, who managed just one substitute appearance last season, having fallen down the pecking order following the signing of Tyrell Malacia.
United are also understood to be willing to listen to offers of £10million for academy graduate Anthony Elanga and Hannibal Mejbri.
The trio of Harry Maguire, Donny van de Beek, and Anthony Martial is also not safe, with the three among the most high-profile United players who could be shipped out this summer.
Chelsea is firm in its stance and will not be swayed by any pressure exerted by RomeluLukaku and Inter Milan to facilitate another loan move, as it would have significant financial repercussions.
Lukaku, who rejoined Chelsea for a fee of £97.5 million from Inter Milan in the summer of 2021, previously had an unsuccessful stint with the club as a teenager when he joined from Anderlecht in 2011.
However, he played a crucial role in Inter Milan’s triumphant 2020-21 season, contributing to their first Scudetto win in ten years and being recognized as the league’s Most Valuable Player before transferring to Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea remains unwavering in its determination to retain Lukaku’s services and is not open to the possibility of another loan arrangement.
Chelsea is resolute in retaining Lukaku and is not willing to entertain the idea of another loan arrangement.
A fallout with former boss, Thomas Tuchel after an interview flirting with the Nerazzurri spelled the end for him in London.
The arrival of Mauricio Pochettino has not changed the striker’s mind about a return, as reported by Football Italia.
Chelsea set Lukaku’s asking price
The Blues loaned Lukaku to Inter for less than £7m last season, despite paying almost 100 million for his signature a year earlier. The Italians want the same route for next season.
Mirror UK reports that the two-time UEFA Champions League winners have rebuffed any loan attempt, even with an obligation to buy, and have made a demand of £34m for the former Everton striker.
They want to put a stop to his endless charade but are standing firm; their hands will not be forced. Reports in the Italian media claim that AC Milan are willing to pay the asking price.
The Athletic reports that Villarreal striker, Nicholas Jackson has completed a medical ahead of a switch to the Premier League as Pochettino hopes to get his squad sorted, with a move for another striker not ruled out.
Sports Brief analysed five reasons Lukaku’s return to Chelsea makes sense for both parties as the tussle continues for the future of the former West Brom striker.
He is yet to fulfil his initial ambition of beingDidier Drogba’s heir in West London, while the club need not spend heavily on another number 9 if they keep him.
Agent Dario Canovi has recently addressed the future of Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, stating that Napoli officials are willing to sell the talented Nigerian star for a substantial fee during this summer transfer window.
Osimhen, who previously played for Lille, has attracted significant transfer speculation since April due to his impressive goal-scoring displays at Napoli, where he finished the previous season as the top scorer with 26 goals.
Currently enjoying his holiday in Nigeria, Osimhen has made a memorable impact at Napoli, earning the admiration and support of the club’s fans who hope he will remain with the team.
Osimhen who is currently spending his holiday in Nigeria has recorded his name in the history books at Napoli and the club’s fans want him to stay after winning their hearts.
The 24-year-old who recently scored a brace for the Super Eagles against Sierra Leone has refused to make any valid statement regarding his future at Napoli.
According to the reports on Complete Sports and Daily Post, Canovi made it clear that it will be difficult for Napoli eggheads to keep Osimhen for another season.
Dario Canovi speaks about Osimhen
“Osimhen makes you greedy, football is now business,Osimhen is also worth more than 150 million (euros), so it would be very difficult to resist I think Italian football will lose another great champion to an offer like this.
”Team like Newcastle, but certainly not Liverpool, one of the two from Manchester, or Chelsea, we realize that England is from another football planet.”
The 24-year-old had a remarkable 2023-24 season helping Napoli to the Scudetto for the first time in over three decades, scoring 26 league goals.
He also helped the club reach the quarterfinals of the UEFA Champions League for the first time in their history.
Osimhen also netted a brace as Nigeria defeated Sierra Leone 3-2 in Monrovia to qualify for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations starting in Ivory Coast in January.
A heartwarming video has surfaced on social media showcasing former Super Eagles captain Austin Jay-Jay Okochaexhibiting his exceptional skills during a charity match alongside fellow retired footballers.
Okocha, renowned for his impressive style of play, particularly in midfield, was widely regarded as one of the finest midfielders during his playing career.
Many Nigerians would feel reassured when Okocha graced the pitch for the Super Eagles in the past, well aware of the incredible capabilities possessed by the former Bolton captain.
In a video spotted on Twitter, Okocha was seen in front of former Barcelona star Ronaldinho dribbling two players before firing the ball over Rene Higuita in goal.
Roberto Carlos was left helpless
After receiving the pass from Ronaldinho, Okocha first expertly dispatched Roberto Carlos before dribbling two more players and then scoring.
Fans were impressed that the Nigerian legend could still exhibit brilliant skills on the pitch after he retired from football years ago.
Okocha’s goals for Super Eagles
The 49-year-old played 73 games for the Super Eagles between 1993-2006 and scored 14 goals. He was among the Nigerian players that won the 1994 African Cup of Nations.
Phil Foden’s son, Ronnie, is on the verge of internet fame even at a young age, having gathered one million Instagram followers in less than 24 hours.
Ronnie gained attention for his charming dance moves and posing for photos during the UEFA Champions League final celebrations.
Meanwhile, Phil Foden, who plays for Manchester City, came on as a substitute for the injured Kevin De Bruyne in the first half and played a crucial role in securing a 1-0 victory against Inter Milan at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul
The triumph was Man City’s first in the prestigious competition and helped complete a historic cup treble – the second for manager, Pep Guardiola.
Ronnie Foden followed by millions
Foden and his partner, Rebecca Cooke manage the Instagram account, which was likely opened after fans asked for more of their son’s cute antics.
ESPN FC spotted the followers count and reported it surpassed 1 million in less than 24 hours. He follows 64 people and has prominent followers like Chelsea star, Mason Mount.
According to Mirror UK, four-year-old Ronnie was given the nickname El Wey by some Spanish Man City fans after the final in Istanbul. The nickname is translated as ‘the dude’.
Sports Brief reported that Ronnie shared a cute moment with Rico Lewis after the final and was so immersed that he asked the academy graduate to send the video to his dad.
Lewis and El Wey were spotted dancing beside a car, with the 18-year-old filming the scene and the clip becoming one of the moments that introduced the child to the internet.
Foden scores a millennium goal
Sports Brief also reported that Foden scored Man City’s 1,000th goal underPep Guardiola’s reign with the third score in the 3-0 win over West Ham United.
He was a worthy scorer, with the 22-year-old’s rise to the first team orchestrated by the Spanish boss, who helped him transition fully into a senior team star.
Manchester United is reportedly interested in securing the services of Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot on a free transfer once his contract expires, the Athletic has reported.
The 28-year-old French international has been engaged in negotiations for several weeks regarding a new deal, as his current terms are set to end at the conclusion of the month.
Rabiot featured in 32 Serie A matches last season, netting eight goals, and has previously expressed his ambition to play in the Premier League.
United have been chasing a £55 million deal for Chelsea’s Mason Mount, but sources have told ESPN the club are considering other options including Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo, Ajax’s Mohammed Kudus and Taylor Booth at FC Utrecht.
Meanwhile, United will reportedly listen to offers for up to 13 players as they hope to bring in £100m, according to The Daily Mail.
The Red Devils will readily let go of Donny van de Beek, Fred, Anthony Elanga, Hannibal Mejbri, Alex Telles, Eric Bailly, Brandon Williams and Zidane Iqbal.
They will also listen to offers to signHarry Maguire, Scott McTominay, Dean Henderson, Anthony Martial and Jadon Sancho, with the latter reportedly available for £45m.
That is in addition to players who will leave as free agents, which could still include goalkeeper David de Gea.
Lionel Messi has expressed his enthusiasm for embarking on a fresh chapter in his career as he departs from Europe to join MLS team Inter Miami.
The legendary player, who has won the Ballon d’Or seven times, was in his home country to pay tribute to Argentina icon Juan Roman Riquelme during his farewell game, where an Argentina XI faced off against Boca Junior XI.
Addressing the crowd that had gathered to witness the commemorative match, Messi shared his sentiments about the significance of this new phase in his career outside of Europe, as reported by AS Soccer.
“It is a very nice feeling to have been able to be at [Riquelme’s] testimonial, with all that he means for footballin Argentina, what he means to Boca, to be once again in ‘La Bombonera’. Now there will be a few days of vacation and then I will start in my new city, my new club (Inter Miami ), I am very excited.”
Messi scored a hat trick in the 4-2 victory for the Argentina XI, and in the second half, he said goodbye with a hug from Riquelme.
Riquelme thanks Messi for appearance
Meanwhile, Juan Roman Riquelme has thanked Lionel Messi for playing in his farewell game after the six-time Ballon d’Or turned up in Rosario for the ex-Villareal superstar, Sportskeeda reports.
Messi, who played alongside Riquelme during the legend’s later days in the national team, has been a huge fan of the veteran and considers the former Barcelona midfielder a role model.
Riquelme took a minute to thank Messi for accepting the invitation and apologised to his family as they had to wait a few more days before starting their vacation.
Argentine fans serenade Lionel Messi
Earlier, Sports Brief reported Lionel Messi marked his 36th birthday in a memorable way, as the World Cup-winning player featured in a game for his Argentinian club Newell’s Old Boys.
The game honoured his teammate Maxi Rodriguez’s last international game. Before the match, the crowd at Rosario Stadium welcomed Messi at his home ground in an elegant way, and the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner didn’t disappoint the audience by taking a stunning free-kick to open the scoring.
The Rosario crowd even sang Messi the happy birthday song and the superstar said that it felt special to spend a birthday in Rosario.
Former player and manager ofReal Madrid, Zinedine Zidane, has stated that Jude Bellingham, the club’s new signing, is prepared to play for the La Liga giants.
Bellingham, the England international, recently finalized his transfer to the Santiago Bernabeu, becoming the second-most expensive signing in the club’s history.
Joining Carlo Ancelotti’s team from Borussia Dortmund for €103 million, Bellingham will don the number five shirt, following in the footsteps of Zidane.
Zidane, a legend at Real Madrid both as a coach and player, has spoken glowingly about Bellingham’s capture.
“Jude Bellingham is an important player for the future. He is ready to play at Real Madrid,” Zidane told Telefoot, via 90Min.
“I met Bellingham at the 2022 Champions League final, we spoke a little, I hope he has a great career,” the Frenchman added.
Zidane himself reportedly invited the Englishman to watch the 2022 Champions League final live from the stands.
The Whites beat Liverpool 1-0, and this result was key to Bellingham’s decision to join Real Madrid.
The England international scored 14 goals and provided seven assists in 42 matches across all competitions last season.
Madrid fans will hope Bellingham’s Real Madrid career will be at least as successful as Zidane’s – or even better.
Zidane speaks on coaching again
Zidane has also said that he hopes to return to management in the near future.
The French footballing icon, who won three consecutive Champions League titles at Real Madrid, has been out of a job since 2021.
He has already snubbed an approach from PSG to replace Christophe Galtier and there have been reports of interest from Saudi Arabia, as claimed by Marca.
Speaking to French outlet Téléfoot, he said: ‘Live and work again in France? Nothing should be ruled out. I know what I want and what I don’t want. If I am having this break, it is because there must be one. I hope to tell myself that soon, I am going to be able to coach.’
It was reported back in January that Zidane had turned down approaches from the USA, Brazil, and Portugal to manage their national teams.
Zidane rejects PSG
Sports Brief earlier reported Zidane turned down the chance to replace Christophe Galtier in the PSG dugout.
Whilst Galtier’s departure hasn’t yet been officially confirmed by PSG, it has been widely reported that the former OGC Nice manager, who only arrived at the club in the summer, has already been informed by Sporting Advisor Luís Campos that he is no longer Les Parisiens’ manager.
Nicolas Jackson has successfully undergone a medical examination in preparation for his transfer from Villarreal to Chelsea.
The Senegalese forward possesses a release clause worth €35m (£30.1m) in his Villarreal contract, and the remaining details for his eight-year contract at Stamford Bridge are being finalized.
In January, Bournemouth had reached an agreement to acquire Jackson for £22.5m, but the 22-year-old’s move fell through due to a failed medical attributed to a hamstring issue.
Jackson emerged as a key target for Chelsea this summer as they look to refresh their forward line having already secured the signature of Christopher Nkunku from German side RB Leipzig.
Nicolas Jackson
In all competitions last season, Jackson scored 13 goals and provided five assists for Villarreal and official confirmation of his move to Stamford Bridge is expected in the coming days.
Patience needed for Jackson at Blues
Image:Nicolas Jackson’s 2022/23 league stats compared to Chelsea forward
Chelsea have a desperate needto bring in a new No 9 this summer in a bid to resolve the goal-scoring issues that mean Diego Costa remains the last striker to score 20 goals in a season for the club – and that was six years ago.
Those problems came to a head last season when no player scored more than nine goals as Chelsea slumped to 12th in the Premier League, exacerbating the desire to strengthen their forward line.
However, Jackson is not the eye-catching name that many supporters may have been hoping for this summer.
The 22-year-old, who has one cap for Senegal, was only promoted to Villarreal’s first team on a full-time basis last season, while he would have joined Bournemouth in January had he not failed a medical.
It’s unlikely that Chelsea would have considered a move for Jackson in the previous window, given his modest record of just three goals in his first 18 LaLiga games of the season.
However, he exploded into life down the stretch, scoring nine in his final eight matches to help Villarreal to Europa League qualification.
That impressive form at the end of the season means Jackson compared favourably to Chelsea’s crop of forwards during the 2022/23 campaign, ranking highest for goals and big chances scored per 90.
However, it must be pointed out that none ofChelsea’s forwards performed to their expected levels last season, while Jackson’s numbers for possession wins and completed passes compare unfavourably to the attacking players already at Stamford Bridge.
As such, it’s unfair to expect Jackson to arrive at Stamford Bridge and immediately fix Chelsea’s issues in front of goal. Don’t be surprised to see the club pursue another No 9 this summer.
Instead, a longer-term view should be taken with Jackson. His hot streak last season demonstrates his potential but his lack of experience at the top level, as well as the room for improvement in aspects of his game, shows patience may be needed from Mauricio Pochettino and the Blues’ fans.
The Premier League champions have officially announced that their captain has completed a move to Barcelona on a free transfer after the conclusion of his contract.
The 32-year-old German midfielder, who featured in 304 matches for City, served as the captain under Pep Guardiola and led the team to a Treble in the previous campaign.
In an emotional farewell message, he said: “For me it has been a total privilege and pleasure to be part of Manchester City for the last seven years.
“Manchester has been my home and I have felt part of a very special family at City.
“I have been lucky to have experienced so many unforgettable moments in my time here and to have been captain for this extra special season has been the greatest experience of my career.
“I will carry City always in my heart. Once a blue, always a blue.”
Instead of extending his deal at the Etihad, Gundogan has decided to sign for Barca and try a new challenge in a different environment.
The 67-cap international was Guardiola’s first signing at the club and led by example as the Spaniard transformed City into a dominant force in England.
He has been a moment for the big occasion — scoring a brace on the final day of the 2021-22 season to help complete the comeback against Aston Villa and snatch the title away from Liverpool.
Another brace at Wembley last season saw City fend off rivals Manchester United to lift the FA Cup, with Gundogan scoring after 12 seconds, the fastest final goal in the competition’s history.
Director of football Txiki Begiristain also paid tribute to the City legend, saying: “Ilkay has been a wonderful servant for Manchester City, and he leaves our club on a very special high having captained us to a historic Treble,
“He has played a huge part in the successes we have enjoyed in recent seasons and Ilkay’s intelligence, leadership and commitment to the club — both on and off the field — has been an inspiration to everyone.
“Ilkay has truly cemented his place in the history of Manchester City and we all wish him well in the next chapter of his career.”
On June 25, 2023, theAccra International Conference Centre hosted the fifth edition of the Ghana Football Awards, which attracted a large audience, including notable former football players such as Asamoah Gyan, Eric Bekoe, Augustine Arhinful, and others.
Among the winners of this year’s awards, Mohammed Kudus stood out as he received the esteemed Footballer of the Year Award.
Blessing Shine Agbomdzi, who plays for ASFAR in Morocco, was named the Women’s Footballer of the Year.
Napoli’s Nigerian striker, Victor Osimhen, was honoured as the Best African International Player of the Year for his outstanding performances.
FC Nordsjaelland forward Ernest Nuamah emerged as the winner of the Odartey Lamptey Future Star Award as well.
The is held annually to celebrate the achievements and contributions of outstanding Ghanaian footballers.
Senegalese defender, Kalidou Koulibaly, has finalized his transfer from Chelsea to SaudiArabian club Al-Hilal.
The 32-year-old has signed a three-year contract with the Saudi Blues, opting to depart from Chelsea after only one season.
Koulibaly becomes the second acquisition from England for the Saudi giants during the summer transfer window, following the arrival of Ruben Neves from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
“Coming From the Strongest League in the World.. “Koulibaly”.. The Senegalese Player is Hilaly,” wrote Al-Hilal on Twitter, confirming the arrival of the defender.
Both teams have made big signings, with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema moving to the Middle Eastern nation.
“From my first game to my last, it was an honour to wear this badge. Last season wasn’t the one we wanted, but I want to thank the fans and everyone at the club for your support,” wrote Koulibaly on Twitter, as he confirmed his Chelsea departure.
Koulibaly commissions Senegal hospital project
Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Koulibaly has returned to his parents’ hometown in Ngano, Senegal.
The Blues’ centre-back arrived to a heroic welcome after years of plying his trade in Europe, where he was born.
Although he was born in France, Koulibaly decided to represent Senegal at the senior level, helping the country win its first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title in 2021.
Addo joins Red Star Belgrade
Black Stars midfielder Edmund Addo has joined Serbian giants Red Star Belgrade in the summer transfer window.
The 23-year-old signed a four-year deal to join the treble winners from rivals Spartak Subotica.
Addo, who was part of the Black Stars team for the AFCON qualifier against Madagascar on Sunday, has been on the radar of Red Star since last season.
Former Vice President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), George Afriyie,has officially announced his candidacy for the upcoming 2023 presidential elections of the local football governing body.
This declaration by Afriyie, which took place on Sunday, signals a noteworthy development in the forthcoming elections.
“We need to move on from repetitive mistakes towards a more practical approach to solving problems. In these challenging times, I come in as a beacon of hope believing in the immense potential of Ghana Football to rise above adversities,” he said.
“I offer a vision for a future where our national teams will continuously compete at the highest level.
Our local clubs and the league will thrive and our young talents are given the equal opportunities they deserve.”
Having previously served as Vice President from 2015 to 2018, Afriyie is no stranger to the intricacies of Ghanaian football administration.
His decision to contest for the GFA presidency comes after his defeat to the current president, Kurt Okraku, in the 2019 elections.
Now, with renewed determination, Afriyie is ready to present his vision for the future of Ghanaian football.
This year’s elections for the GFA presidency are expected to be closely contested, with multiple candidates vying for the position.
Ghanaian midfielder and player for Ajax,Mohammed Kudus, has been awarded the title of Footballer of the Year at the fifth edition of the Ghana Football Awards.
The ceremony was held on June 25, 2023, at the Accra International Conference Centre. Kudus outshined his fellow Black Stars teammates Joseph Paintsil and Salis Abdul Samed to secure this prestigious recognition.
This achievement follows in the footsteps of last year’s recipient, Alexander Djiku.
Blessing Shine Agbomdzi, who plays for ASFAR in Morocco, was named the Women’s Footballer of the Year.
In the Odartey Lamptey Future Star category, FC Nordsjaelland forward Ernest Nuamah emerged as the winner, surpassing Black Princesses’ captain Stella Nyamaekye and Princess Owusua.
Napoli’s Nigerian striker, Victor Osimhen, was honoured as the Best African International Player of the Year for his outstanding performances.
Medeama Sporting Club, the champions of the Ghana Premier League, dominated the awards ceremony. Head coach Evans Adotey and CEO Moses Armah led the way, with the team also winning the Male Team of the Year category.
The Ministry of Energy has said there is no existing contract betweenTema Oil Refinery (TOR) and its potential partner, Torentco.
The Ministry emphasizes that while negotiations are currently taking place between the state agency and Torentco, no definitive agreement has been reached.
In a press release issued on Sunday, June 25, the spokesperson for the Ministry, Kofi Abrefa Afena, urges critics of the sector minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, to verify their suspicions before publicly making any claims or accusations.
According to him, such claims are baseless and the critics are unnecessarily damaging the reputation of persons in government.
In the said release, Mr. Abrefa Afena challenged persons with any contrary documents to produce them or stop making unfounded accusations.
“Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as Energy Minister has demonstrated without a shred of doubt, his total commitment to getting TOR back to work in line with the vision of His Excellency the President.”
“Indeed, the Board, Management and Staff of the Company are on record to have severally touted the numerous positive interventions of the Minister in this regard.”
Mr. Abrefa Afena expressed the government’s desire to find strategic partners for the refinery.
“Government’s quest at finding a credible partner towards revamping the company involves key state actors such as the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) and the Attorney General’s Department,” he added.
TOR, a crucial entity in Ghana’s energy sector, has faced significant challenges in recent years, including operational inefficiencies, financial constraints, and the need for infrastructure upgrades.
Recognizing the urgency to address these issues, TOR’s management, in a statement, disclosed that it embarked on an extensive evaluation of potential solutions.
According to the management, after careful consideration and rigorous analysis, the management team concluded that the Torentco deal offers the most promising path forward.
Several Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), including the Africa Center for Energy Policy (ACEP), have raised concerns about the lease agreement negotiations between Torentco and the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR).
ACEP revealed that Torentco, a newly established local Ghanaian company formed in January 2023, lacks the track record in the petroleum business and does not have the capacity to effectively take over TOR.
“This is a new local Ghanaian company formed here in Ghana in January 2023, with no track record. If they fail to deliver, how do you hold them accountable? They don’t have any track record of dealing in petroleum businesses,” Mr Boakye said in a media interview.
But TOR, in an official response, said the proposed deal entails a strategic partnership between TOR and Torentco, with the aim of modernizing the refinery’s operations, optimizing efficiency, and enhancing its competitive position.
The collaboration will involve substantial investments in infrastructure, technology upgrades, and capacity expansion.
According to TOR’s management, the Torentco deal will ensure a reliable supply of crude oil, a critical input for the refinery’s operations.
TOR added that the Torentco deal is expected to bring much-needed financial stability to the refinery by leveraging Torentco’s financial resources and access to capital markets.
The refinery will have the necessary funding for infrastructure upgrades, maintenance, and working capital, ensuring uninterrupted operations and improved financial performance.
Furthermore, the collaboration will prevent some of the brightest engineers in the company from leaving.
The management of TOR is confident that the Torentco deal represents a transformative opportunity for the refinery and Ghana’s energy sector as a whole. They believe that this strategic partnership will reposition TOR as a vital contributor to the country’s economic growth, job creation, and energy self-sufficiency.
“The proposed transaction serves to achieve the following: Allow TOR to move from being an annual loss-making entity to sustained positive net cash flow during the term of the lease. Demonstrate that crude oil can be processed at the refinery, achieving industry-accepted yields if managed efficiently.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has told residents of Assin North that they deserve a member of parliament who is not constantly involved in legal disputes.
He was addressing on June 25 at the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) last rally in Fosu, where the party urged supporters to cast their votes en masse for Charles Opoku, the party’s parliamentary candidate.
Akufo-Addo argued that electing Charles Opoku would mean choosing a legislator who is not distracted by other matters and can concentrate on his or her legislative responsibilities.
He was referring to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate James Gyakye Quayson who is standing to win a seat he was ousted from by the Supreme Court last month and is currently facing criminal charges at an Accra High Court.
The president said the case of Quayson, a dual nationality case is likened to that of a former NPP MP for Bawku Central who was jailed for contesting for a parliamentary seat despite holding Ghanaian and British citizenship.
He explained: “That Ghanaians easily forget and that is why he (John Mahama) said that. What happened to Adamu Dramani Sakande during his presidency, he seems to have forgotten. It is the exact same thing that has befallen Quayson.
“Was it politics that led to Sakande’s jailing during his presidency? Why is he relating it to that now, let us be truthful, we should be truthful, people should stop lying to people in the villages.
The by-election has attracted a lot of political activity in the past few weeks. Campaigns ended on June 25 ahead of the vote.
President Akufo-Addo led the New Patriotic Party’s final rally in the constituency campaigning for the candidacy of Charles Opoku who according to a poll is leading marginally.
Former president John Dramani Mahama has urged voters in Assin North to strongly support James Gyakye Quayson in the upcoming by-election, despite his recent removal from Parliament through a Supreme Court ruling.
Mahama emphasized that the June 27 by-election would serve as a means to demonstrate that the ruling New Patriotic Party, the courts, and any other parties involved had unjustly invalidated the legitimate election of Quayson as the representative for the constituency.
“They (the government) used dirty politics and intimidation, as well as hatred in a bid to remove him and attempt to remove him,” Mahama told supporters at Gangan during the final rally of the NDC on June 25.
“We are going to show the elephant (party), the courts and other conspirators that in 2020 we knew who we wanted and voted for James Gyakye Quayson as MP,” he said to applause.
Gyakye Quayson,Mahama continued: “lived in Canada comfortably and routinely comes home to support his people before deciding to return to his country and serve his people.”
He insisted that Quayson had validly renounced his Canadian citizenship yet the government continued to use underhand tactics with the sole aim of removing him to boost their numbers through the courts.
“He has been through threats, they have infiltrated the courts with politics, today, in Ghana’s history we have a time MPs’ election are contested in court, but such people remain in parliament till case is decided but only him, he has faced injunctions whiles his case is being heard. It has never happened before but just because of politics,” Mahama lamented.
The by-election has attracted a lot of political activity in the past few weeks. Campaigns ended on June 25 ahead of the vote.
President Akufo-Addo led the New Patriotic Party’s final rally in the constituency campaigning for the candidacy of Charles Opoku who according to a poll is leading marginally.
Member of Parliament for Mpraeso in the Eastern Region, Davis Opoku has expressed concerns about the potential consequences of a standoff between Archbishop Charles Agyinasare, the founder of Perez Chapel, and the Nogokpo Community in the Volta Region.
The religious leader made remarks that were deemed derogatory by the community’s leaders, who subsequently summoned him to appear before them or face unforeseen repercussions.
Opoku, recognizing the gravity of the situation, believes that this issue could have implications for national security.
As a result, he is urging the government, specifically the National Security and the Ministry of Religious Affairs, along with the Peace Council, to intervene and work towards deescalating tensions.
His views were contained in a Facebook post of June 23, which read: “What are the National Security, Peace Council and the Ministry of Religious Affairs doing over this Bishop Agyin Asare vs Nogokpo clash?
“It’s needless and dangerous for our National Security.”
The most recent development in that episode is of Agyinasare, last week, calling the bluff of the community.
Speaking during a sermon, Archbishop Agyinasare said he was surprised that he was the focus of the nation for weeks in spite of all the challenges in Ghana.
He warned that anybody who chooses to curse a child of God does so at his own peril.
“The blessing of Abraham, ‘I will make your name great so that you can be a blessing’. And take the verse three, it says, ‘and I will bless anybody who blesses you and curse anyone that curses you’.
“Once I become a Christian, you make a mistake if you curse me. What is a curse? A curse is an invocation of spiritual forces to do you harm. So, if God says anybody who curses you, he will curse. Then anybody who pours libations and mentions your name, invoking spiritual forces against you.”
He further stated that any person who pours a libation against a Christian sets him/herself up for a battle with the forces of God.
“What that person is doing is that they are activating a spiritual law, against themselves and their families… if they take a calabash filled with palm wine or a glass filled with schnapps or ‘akpeteshi’, once they pour it and call your name, they have open a spiritual portal to fight them.
“If the world knew who we are and what we have once we become Christians… you don’t joke with a child of God,” he added.
Background :
The 14 days ultimatum the chiefs of Nogokpo gave for Agyinasare to appear before them over his “Nogokpo is the demonic headquarters of the Volta Region” statement, expired on Friday, June 16, 2023.
The spokesperson of Nogopko, Nufialagah Mawufemor Kobla Nornyigbey, said that the chiefs and elders of Nogokpo would be meeting to determine the next set of actions to take against the archbishop.
“All the options are on the table for us. I mean all the options,” Nornyigbey said when asked whether the chiefs of Nogokpo are going to invoke their deity.
During the Supernatural Summit held at the Perez Chapel headquarters in Accra on May 25, 2023, Archbishop Agyinasare preached about divine protection and the existence of evil forces.
In his sermon, he cited several examples to support his teachings, including an incident where his team experienced spiritual attacks after hosting a crusade in the Volta Region.
“During this crusade in Aflao… we slept at Agbozume, that was where our hotel was and you have to go through Nogokpo. And Nogokpo is the demonic headquarters in the Volta Region.
“We only have not said it but the second night I made Bishop Yaw Adu talk about witchcraft and we disgraced the witches and wizards. When we were driving from Aflao to Agbozume, immediately we got to Nogokpo, Bishop Yaw Adu’s four-wheel drive, the tyre came out from under the car,” he recounted.
Agyinasare’s statement went viral, leading to criticism from sections of the public.
In response, a press conference was held at the Royal Palace of the Dufia of Nogokpo, Torgbui Saba V.
The chiefs demanded the presence of Archbishop Agyinasare within the given period, accusing him of making derogatory remarks against them. They said he was to appear before them to explain the comments he made.
During the New Patriotic Party’s final rally before the June 27 by-election in Assin North, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo engaged in a spirited exchange with his predecessor, John Dramani Mahama.
Mahama, who had previously spoken at the National Democratic Congress (NDC) final rally in Gangan, expressed his concerns about the politicization of the courts, which resulted in the removal of James Gyakye Quayson from his position as a Member of Parliament.
This removal subsequently necessitated the by-election.
Akufo-Addo blasted Mahama for the comments describing it as unfortunate but unsurprising for a man who ever said that ‘Ghanaians are forgetful.’
The president referred to the case of NPP MP Adamu Dramani Sakande who was jailed during Mahama’s presidency over a dual citizenship case, a similar incident to what Quayson is facing in an Accra High Court.
“John Mahama says if not for politics, what the courts have said of Mr. Quayson will not be. Essentially that theSupreme Court has been politicized. Ghanaians easily forget and that is why he said that.
“What happened to Adamu Dramani Sakande during his presidency, he seems to have forgotten. It is the exact same thing that has befallen Quayson.
“Was it politics that led to Sakande’s jailing during his presidency? Why is he relating it to that now, let us be truthful, we should be truthful, people should stop lying to people in the villages,” he jabbed.
He drummed the advantages of choosing the NPP’s Charles Opoku over Quayson stressing that the constituency needs someone from the ruling party and not a lawmaker who could potentially be in jail or who would be frequenting the courts during his tenure.
“Don’t elect someone who will be frequenting the courts – Appeal, Supreme, High Courts, that is not what you need. I came to appeal to you to elect a lawmaker who can join government to continue the work government is executing in Assin North.
“Ghanaians are forgetful, does such a person think well of Ghanaians? We are not a forgetful people. What happened to Sakande, it is on the same path Quayson is traveling. It is not for me to say.
“The NPP is not interested in intimidating or scaring him, it is the laws that are after him, it is not me scaring him, it is the laws. If the laws come after you, it is not Nana Addo, it is the law,”Akufo-Addo stressed stating that he has never sought to influence the courts in his time in office.
The by-election has attracted a lot of political activity in the past few weeks. Campaigns ended on June 25 ahead of the vote.
Former captain of the Black Stars, Asamoah Gyan, has responded to reports of a $200 million offer made by a Saudi Arabian club to temptArsenal midfielder Thomas Partey.
Gyan took to Twitter and posted a zipped mouth emoji in reaction to a tweet discussing whether Partey, given his age, should accept or reject the offer and focus on staying in Europe.
Drawing from his own career experience, Gyan made a surprising move from Sunderland to the United Arab Emirates after only one season in England.
Speaking to FourFourTwo, he explained that UEA club Al Ain made him an offer ‘he could not resist’.
“I was enjoying my football, but Al Ain offered me wages that instantly made me the best-paid footballer in Africa. I couldn’t resist,” he said.
According to the Saudi offer for Partey, he would receive an annual salary of $100 million, tax free in a two-year deal.
“Arsenal star Thomas Partey has been offered $200 million in wages by a club in Saudi Arabia. Partey will earn an annual, tax-free salary of $100 million if he signs the two-year deal.
The Saudi clubs keen on Partey are Al Ahli, Al Nassr, and Al Khaleej,” former Ghana Football Association spokesperson Saanie Daara reported in a tweet.
Meanwhile, Thomas Partey, 30, has attracted interest from Italian side Juventus, which offered him a three-year contract.
Thomas Partey, who joined Arsenal in the summer of 2020, has two years left on his current contract.
The 31-year-old footballer took to Instagram to express remorse for cheating on his pregnant girlfriend, with whom he is expecting a baby in May.
However, according to Sportskeeda, Neymar’s admission of infidelity has had a negative impact on his social media following.
The report suggests that the footballer has lost approximately 80,000 followers on Instagram, with fans expressing anger and disappointment over his actions.
The Brazilian’s apology post, which was read over 10.7 million times, sparked outrage after it was revealed he had cheated on his pregnant partner with proof of receipts.
Neymar is currently out injured after undergoing surgery to repair his ankle following a horrific injury in February while in action for PSG in a league game.
PSG’s Neymar facing $1m fine
Meanwhile,Neymar faces the threat of a $1 million fine after seeing the construction of his Brazilian mansion brought to a halt for environmental damage by the Brazilian authorities, Goal reports.
The Paris Saint-Germain superstar is looking to build a lavish home for his family in the region, but work has been shut down due to several environmental violations while making the property.
Neymar has been accused of moving fresh water sources, stones and rocks with diverted waterway and beach sand without a permit.
Neymar publicly expresses remorse
Earlier, Sports Brief reported Neymar Junior has publicly apologised to his girlfriend, Bruna Biancardi, after reportedly admitting to cheating while they were in a committed relationship.
Despite their previous separation in 2020, the couple appeared to have reconciled this year, as evidenced by affectionate photos hinting at their reunion.
Their bond has been severely strained due to Neymar’s alleged infidelity, despite expecting their first child together later this year.
Goalkeeper with theBlack Stars, Jojo Wollacott, has joined Hibernian FC of the Scottish Premier League during the summer transfer period.
The Ghanaian international agreed to a three-year contract to transfer from Charlton Athletic of English League One to Hibs.
Wollacott, who was born in England of Ghanaian parents, played football for Bristol City, Swindon Town, and Charlton for the majority of his career.
He teams up with Lee Johnson, his previous boss, after moving to Scotland.
“We’re delighted to bring Jojo to the club and I’m looking forward to working with him again,” said the manager, as quoted by the club’s official website.
Johnson talked about knowing Wollacott for some time and his pleasure at seeing him start to fulfill his potential.
“He now has over 100 games under his belt and has played on the international stage with Ghana. He’s an athletic, brave, andconfident goalkeeper, and with big competitions coming up, it’s important we’re strong in the goalkeeping department.”
The keeper shared his excitement after completing the move to Hibernian and is looking forward to working with Johnson again.
“Obviously, he was the first team manager at Bristol City, which is where I was a few years ago, so him signing me is a statement in itself, because it shows his trust and belief in me,” Wollacott stated. “He played a massive part in my development at Bristol, so I want to repay that.”
The 26-year-old was also part of the Black Stars team that travelled to Antananarivo for the AFCON qualifier against Madagascar, as reported by Ghanaweb.
Since making his debut in 2021, Wollacott has made 11 appearances for the national team.
Wollacott reveals football role model Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Ghana’s safest pair of hands, Wollacott revealing his biggest inspiration while growing up – Manchester City goalkeeper, Joe Hart.
Impressing for both club and country, Jojo was shortlisted for Swindon Town’s Player of the Season award, in what is a testament to his purple patch this campaign.
Wollacott bounced back from a dismal performance at the 2021 AFCON to help Ghana qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, becoming a cult hero for his country.
Manchester City is considering a move for RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol as a potential replacement for Aymeric Laporte, should the latter decide to leave the club during the current transfer window according to sources at ESPN,
Gvardiol features on a list of players being considered to fill Laporte’s position.
However, one obstacle in the potential transfer is RB Leipzig’s valuation of the talented Croatian center-back.
The Bundesliga club has already experienced departures this summer, with Christopher Nkunku joining Chelsea and Konrad Laimer moving to Bayern Munich.
As a result, RB Leipzig would prefer to retain Gvardiol for at least another year.
Sources have told ESPN that RB Leipzig could ask for a transfer fee as high as €100 million ($108.9m) because Gvardiol, 21, only signed a new deal in September 2022 and is under contract until 2027.
Laporte is assessing his options ahead of a possible move away from City. The 29-year-old slipped behind Ruben Dias, John Stones, Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake in the pecking order last season and was restricted to just 12 appearances in the Premier League as a result.
Laporte has a contract at the Etihad until 2025 and City will ask for a sizable fee before allowing him to leave.
Silva, according to sources, has been told he can leave this summer if City’s valuation is met and aside from Al Hilal, there is also interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona.
Silva, according to sources, would prefer to stay in Europe if he leaves the Etihad but has not yet ruled out Al Hilal’s offer. Silva’s City teammate, Riyad Mahrez, has also been sounded out about a possible move to Saudi Arabia.
Negotiations forSergio Busquets to join Lionel Messi at Inter Miami are progressing positively, with sources indicating that there is now a “70% chance” of the Barcelona midfielder joining the MLS team.
Busquets, who is 34 years old, is nearing the end of his contract with Barcelona, which expires at the end of June.
After announcing that he will not be extending his contract, he has been considering offers from clubs around the world.
Two clubs in Saudi Arabia, Al Nassr and Al Hilal, have presented the most substantial proposals, according to sources cited by ESPN.
These offers initially raised doubts within Busquets’ camp about a potential move to Miami.
However, following a series of positive conversations with the hierarchy at Inter Miami, who are part-owned by David Beckham, a move to South Florida and a reunion with Messi is edging closer.
Sources say a deal is still not 100% done, with the two Saudi clubs reluctant to give up on Busquets, but a final decision is expected soon.
Sergio Busquets has announced he will leave Barcelona at the end of his contract June 30. Joan Valls/Urbanandsport /NurPhoto via Getty Images
Busquets’ camp expect to field the final offers from Al Nassr and Al Hilal on Friday as they try to convince the former Spain international to join the influx of players moving to the Middle East.
ESPN first revealed in January that Al Nassr, who signed Cristiano Ronaldo last year, had made a move to sign Busquets as a free agent.
The initial offer six months ago was worth around €13 million ($14.1m) net but sources have told ESPN that figure has “significantly increased” since then.
Sources added that Busquets will earn much less in Miami than he could in Saudi Arabia, but his family have always been more keen on a move to the United States. The player has previously spoken of his desire to end his career in the U.S. too.
Playing alongside Messi again — the two spent 13 years as teammates in Barca’s first team — is also a draw, although sources say Messi has remained in the background and not been involved in Busquets’ decision or Miami’s push for the midfielder.
The two remain close friends off the pitch and dined together just a few weeks ago in Barcelona along with Spain left-back Jordi Alba, who is also drawing interest from Miami following the announcement he will leave Barca this summer.
Manchester United is set to increase their offer for midfielder Mason Mount after Chelsea turned down their initial two bids.
The Blues are reportedly seeking a fee close to £65m for the player. United is also keeping an eye on the situation of Declan Rice, the West Ham captain, who is being pursued by Arsenal and Manchester City.
United is preparing a third bid for Mason Mount, which is expected to be around £55m. However, if Chelsea rejects this offer, United will likely end their pursuit.
The club’s previous bids, including add-ons, were worth £50m, but Chelsea’s valuation is higher. United has set a limit on how much they are willing to pay for a player who has just one year remaining on his contract.
United retain an interest in West Ham captain Declan Rice and there have been discussions internally about how possible it would be to sanction a deal.
Man City and Arsenal are also interested in Rice, with Sky in Italy reporting City are prepared to pay £75m + £15m in bonuses payable across two years for the midfielder.
Reporter Gianluca Di Marzio added on Thursday evening that Rice is getting closer to a City move and there is confidence an agreement can be made.
Due to Financial Fair Play rules, it’s unlikely United could spend a huge portion of their budget on one player – especially as they have other areas they want to strengthen.
For that reason, they are looking at a number of other options in midfield. Potential sales of players would, however, increase their spending power.
Erik ten Hag first bumped intoMount when he was Ajax head coach. On loan at Vitesse Arnhem, the 18-year-old’s free-kick led to his side’s third goal as they beat Ajax 3-2 in March 2018.
Ten Hag, then in charge of just his eighth game at Ajax, reportedly tried to sign Mount for the Dutch club on loan from Chelsea the following season. Fourteen goals and 10 assists in his first full campaign of senior football, largely from central midfield, had caught Ten Hag’s attention.
The likelihood of Mount staying at Stamford Bridge is remote with the midfielder unwilling to sign a new deal. Chelsea know this is the time to cash in on a player who has just one year left on his contract.
Member of Parliament for Nsawam Adoagyiri constituency, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has put forward a proposal to include former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan as a subject of study in schools, aiming to inspire the younger generation.
Annoh-Dompreh’s suggestion arises following the outpouring of tributes for the Ghanaian football icon, who recently announced his retirement.
While acknowledging the abundant praise and recognition received by Gyan from football federations, fans, and stakeholders, Annoh-Dompreh believes that mere commendations are inadequate.
He argues that making Gyan a focal point of educational studies would not only pay homage to him but also serve as an inspiration to young people.
“A man with such great ability and talents both on and off the pitch deserves more, I strongly believe this personality and vision should be studied in schools to inspire the next generation,” he said on the floor of parliament.
“Again, a monument should be erected in his name to show our appreciation for the diverse contribution he has made to Ghana and the world at large.
“He is an iconic figure whose brand should be promoted to inspire other rich and endowed footballers to act likewise in the manner in which he contributed to the socio-economic development of our country.
“Speaker, he may [have] missed the golden opportunity of not qualifying Ghana to the semi-final in the 2010 World Cup.
“Nonetheless, he never missed the opportunity for restoring joy into the heart of Ghanaians with music, dance, and economic opportunities that he has offered the youth.”
Gyan, who also holds the record for being Africa’s top scorer in the World Cup with six goals, has hinted at a potential return to the game through coaching and scouting, among others.
Speculation surrounding Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelottihas been ongoing since late December, with Brazil’s Football Confederation expressing their strong desire for him to replace Tite as their national team coach.
Ancelotti seems likely to fulfill his contract with Real Madrid, which is set to expire in the summer of 2024. Even some of his own players have been discussing his potential move to Brazil.
Recent reports suggested that Ancelotti had reached an agreement to assume the role of Brazil’s coach in the summer of 2024. However, these reports were denied by Real Madrid.
Speaking to Marca, Real Madrid forward Rodrygo Goes admitted that he would be happy for Ancelotti to come with him on international breaks.
“I can’t talk much because I don’t know much either. I know he’s plan A for the national team.
“The president is counting on him and we also want him there.
“For me, for Vini, for Militao we know him and we know of his greatness.
“Having him in the national team is going to be very important, but there is still nothing confirmed.
“We hope that when his contract ends, he will come to the national team.”
Neymar confirms Ancelotti’s Brazil move
“We will have the opportunity to have a foreign coach.
Ancelotti has won everything and I’m sure he’s going to teach us a lot.”
It appears there is a groundswell of approval for Ancelotti in Brazil, with players, fans, and presidents all keen to have him join.
Sports Brief earlier reported Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has drawn up a provisional three-man shortlist to replace Ancelotti, consisting of Zinedine Zidane, Jose Mourinho, and Xabi Alonso.
Both Zidane and Mourinho have previously had stints at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium dugout and have produced remarkable results for the Spanish capital club.
Despite this, Mundo Deportivo has reported that Alonso is Perez’s preferred candidate. Coincidentally, his contract with Bayer Leverkusen expires at the end of next season – which could allow Real Madrid to poach him for nothing.
A captivating video circulating on social media shows Nigerians gathering to witness the homecoming of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen to his childhood residence in Lagos State.
Osimhen, who was born in Olusosun, had a humble upbringing that involved undertaking various manual tasks to sustain himself before his football talent propelled him towards success.
In the recently concluded European season, Osimhen achieved a significant milestone by contributing to Napoli’s triumph in securing the Serie A title, a feat they hadn’t accomplished in 30 years.
The former Lille strongman also became the first African to win the Golden Boot award in the history of the Serie A.
Days after netting a brace for the Super Eagles in their 3-2 win over Sierra Leone in the African Cup of Nations qualifying game, Osimhen returned to Lagos.
It was an emotional moment as fans were happy to see the Napoli superstar.
Meanwhile, Osimhen has been linked with a move to the Premier League with Chelsea and Man United interested in his services.
Victor Osimhen melts the heart
Earlier, Sports Brief had reported how Nigerian international Victor Osimhen visited his old friends in the Ojota area of Lagos State, where they shared a reunion.
Osimhen grew up in the area and attended Olusosun Primary School during childhood.
Following his successful season after leading Napoli to the Italian Serie A, having scored 26 league goals, the forward returned home to reunite with his old pals.
There was indescribable joy on the faces of the friends as they took turns to share hugs with the former Lille of France striker who is nicknamed ‘Ijaya Olusosun’.
Despite his current status, Osimhen has always paid a courtesy visit to the hood anytime he is in the country.
Liverpool fans initially panicked when they heard the news of Mohamed Salah’s supposed transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al Adalah.
However, their anxiety quickly turned into amusement as they realized the situation was rather humorous.
The Saudi Arabian league has gained attention recently for signing prominent European players, so the idea of Salah moving to the Middle East didn’t seem entirely implausible at first glance.
In fact, sections of Liverpool fans briefly went into a state of panic on Thursday, June 22 after it was confirmed that Mohammed Salah was officially an Al Adalah player.
However, it is not the Salah you’re thinking of, as according to Daily Star, Al Adalah have signed the Liverpool ace’s namesake who plays as a left back.
Al Adalah, through the club’s Twitter handle, confirmed their new signing, whose name is eerily similar to that of Liverpool’s top marksman.
And fans could not help but see the funny side to it, as they poked fun on social media.
@Futinho joked:
“Salah looks a bit different here.”
Another Twitter user @sandeepunsea chimed in saying:
“Klopp’s star player leaves!! Liverpool will fall out of the top 8 this season, mark my words.”
@VictoryOwai added:
“Hope they didn’t mistake him for Liverpool Salah?”
He remains the club’s leading marksman, and his performances led to Jurgen Klopp’s side rewarding him with a new contract last year, which extended his stay at Anfield until 2025.
When Salah blasted Liverpool
Sports Brief also reported on how Mohammed Salah blasted Liverpool for missing out on Champions League places.
The Reds will have to play in the second-tier Europa League in the 2023-24 season after Manchester United’s win over Chelsea confirmed their place in the final Champions League spot.
Europa League will be unfamiliar territory for Salah, as it is the first time Liverpool have failed to qualify for the Champions League since 2017.
Maha Ayew, the mother of Ghanaian national team playersAndre Dede Ayew and Jordan Ayew, had to depart from the Education City Stadium during Ghana’s Group H match against South Korea at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Jordan Ayew disclosed that his mother found the intensity of the game overwhelming and decided to leave before the match concluded.
According to the Crystal Palace player, Maha departed sometime between the 65th and 70th minute as she couldn’t bear the nerve-wracking experience of protecting a narrow lead in the final minutes of the game.
“My Mum, after 65 or 70 minutes, she couldn’t watch the game anymore. She had to leave the stadium! We like [the tension] like that, we enjoy it.
It was very stressful for her. She is very passionate about the game as well, so she just couldn’t watch it. With her two sons playing, it was not easy for her,” Ayew disclosed as quoted by Ghanasoccernet.
During the game, Ghana took a two-goal lead in the first before Korea pulled parity in the early minutes of the second half with a strong start.
However, the Black Stars responded and regain the lead and held on this time to record their first and only win of the tournament.
Jordan Ayew’s created the first goal with a beautiful cross, which Mohammed Salisu scored from a rebound. He later put in another sublime cross that was nodded in by Kudus Mohammed for the second.
After Cho Gue-sung’s brace pulled Korea level, Kudus restored Ghana’s lead in the 68 eight minutes connecting a cross from the right.
Dormaahene Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II has made an announcement recognizing the contributions of Black Stars captain Andre Ayew to the country.
The seasoned forward is among the Black Stars players present in the area to participate in the 2023 All-Star Festival.
The festival is taking place in the Bono, Bono-East, and Ahafo regions, and is attracting numerous attendees, including national team players.
During a special gathering on Thursday, Dormaahene revealed that the first male baby born at Dormaa Hospital on Friday, June 23, will be given the name Andre Ayew as an honor to the footballer.
In an additional pledge, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II indicated that he will together with the traditional council cater for the baby until he reaches the age of maturity.
Andre Ayew is in Dormaa with other top players including Jordan Ayew, Wakaso, Afena Gyan, Kudus Mohammed, and Kamaladeen Sulemana.
Dormahene honours Black Stars Captain Andre Ayew.
The first male born baby at the Dormaa Hospital tomorrow will be named after Andre Ayew. The Traditional Council will cater for the baby till majority age to mark the historic visit.
Andre is leading a team of the Black Stars… pic.twitter.com/rlMC1n2g9U— Saddick Adams (@SaddickAdams) June 22, 2023
Aston Villa has confirmed that their captain, John McGinn, has agreed to a new long-term contract.
The midfielder’s extension ensures his stay at the club until 2027.
McGinn joined Aston Villa from Hibernian in 2018 and played a pivotal role in their promotion to the Premier League in 2019, scoring a goal in the Championship play-off final against Derby.
The 28-year-old was named club captain last summer and was a key part of the Villa set-up last season, making 34 Premier League appearances.
He helped the club secure European football for the first time since 2010 after a stunning turnaround under manager Unai Emery saw Villa finish seventh in the league.
McGinn also represents Scotland on the international stage, earning 56 caps for his country, and he recently featured in theirEuro 2024 qualifying wins against Georgia and Norway.
Rice’s departure from East London appears imminent, having led his team to victory in the UEFA Europa Conference League with a late goal from Jarrod Bowen in the 119th minute.
Despite Arsenal’s two unsuccessful bids of around £90 million for the highly valued midfielder, they remain steadfast in their demand for £110 million as the minimum acceptable offer before considering any transfer.
DiMarzio reports that the Citizens have moved ahead of the Gunners, whom they beat to the Premier League title, after lodging an official bid with a total package meeting the player’s valuation.
Rice’s conditions to join City
The player is believed to prefer Arsenal despite City’s offer to West Ham, as he prefers to remain in London because of his family.
Daily Star reports that he has laid down three conditions – which are tied to his role in the team, before agreeing to join the Premier League champions.
The 24-year-old sought assurances he has a long-term role at the club and that he will be an immediate starter and not be slowly integrated like his compatriot Jack Grealish, who joined for £100m from Aston Villa two years ago.
The last and possibly the most difficult request is seeking to know if Pep Guardiola will be at the club beyond the end of his current contract, which expires in 2025.
NBC Sports reported that the manager told the club insiders he would leave when his contract expires. The Spaniard could have been out of contract this summer but extended by two years during the 2022 FIFA World Cup break.
Musiala heaps praise on Rice
Sports Brief reported that German youngster Jamal Musiala heaped praise on Rice as a great player after Bayern Munich withdrew their interest due to the fee and the player’s preference to remain in England.
Musiala knew the England international from their days at Chelsea Academy in Cobham, even though they were in different age groups.
This marked Chelsea’s poorest placement in over 25 years, as the club experienced a turbulent season under the guidance of four different managers.
Following the dismissal of Graham Potter, Frank Lampard, a club legend, took charge before being replaced by Thomas Tuchel.
Additionally, it was the inaugural season under the ownership of the Clearlake consortium, led by Todd Boehly.
Despite significant financial investments amounting to nearly 600 million euros, the team’s performances fell short of expectations.
Among the many arrivals was Fernandez, who was scooped for a British record fee from Benfica in January. The midfielder had just starred for Lionel Messi’s Argentina as they won the World Cup in Qatar.
Admittedly, the former Benfica star was among the brightest sparks of Chelsea’s otherwise dull season. The 22-year-old has sent out a message of optimism ahead of next season.
“We are moving forward with Chelsea that although the first semester was not as we all wanted, we know that this is a serious project and with people who are looking for the best for the club and this year, we will show it!” he said on his official social media handles.
Fernandez will come back to a fourth different manager with his international compatriot Mauricio Pochettino poised to take over. According to his father, Raul, he is expected to ask the manager to play him further forward rather than in a holding midfield position.
“My son wants to be a champion! I think we will see Enzo play further forward! He was going to ask Pochettino to play further advanced.” as quoted by Chelsea Spot.
How Pochettino could line up
N’Golo Kante’s exit on a free transfer was confirmed by the club, with Hakim Ziyech, Edouard Mendy and Kalidou Koulibaly expected to follow him to Saudi Arabia. Matteo Kovacic is on the verge of joining Manchester City, while Kai Havertz is set to dump one side of London for the other.
Under different circumstances, all these players were guaranteed starters at Chelsea. This begs the question: how will Pochettino approach next season? Does he have enough firepower to challenge for titles on multiple fronts or will he need reinforcements?
Keeping in mind the Argentine’s favoured 4-2-3-1 formation, Sports Brief takes a look at how the Blues could possibly look next season.
Lionel Messi allegedly took a swipe at Paris Saint-Germain before his move to Inter Miami, offering some tough advice to his now-former teammate Kylian Mbappe.
During his two-year tenure at PSG, Messi had a mixed impact, contributing an impressive 67 goals in 75 appearances.
While he achieved success at the domestic level, his aspirations for European glory remained unfulfilled, leaving both the Argentine superstar and the passionate PSG fanbase somewhat disappointed.
As Messi bid farewell to PSG amidst criticism from fans, reports surfaced suggesting that he advised Kylian Mbappe to consider leaving the club.
According to Defensa Central, Messi allegedly encouraged Mbappe to pursue his dream of becoming a Golden Ball winner by considering a move to either Real Madrid or Barcelona.
“I prefer that you go to Barca. But if you want to go to Madrid, do it. You deserve a real winning project,” Messi said, as quoted by GOAL.
With Mbappe’s contract entering its final stages, speculation has intensified regarding his future at Parc des Princes. The 24-year-old has been heavily linked with a potential transfer to Real Madrid, adding further fuel to the already buzzing transfer rumours.
Hefty price tag for Mbappe
Meanwhile, Real Madrid will have to break their current transfer record if they insist on signing wantaway French forward, Kylian Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain this summer, Sports Brief reported.
The 24-year-old French forward has been a key target for Los Blancos, with the club’s president, Florentino Perez, confident they will sign the 2022 World Cup Golden Boot winner soon.
PSG has slapped a €200 million price tag on Mbappe as they try to offload the disgruntled star, who still has one year left on his current deal.
Messi’s PSG exit: Mbappe angry
Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Mbappe took a swipe at PSG over their underwhelming performances in a bombshell interview.
The 24-year-old has slammed the decision to allow Lionel Messi to move on as the striker looks to leave Parc des Princes on a free transfer in 2024.
Mbappe also revealed his stance on Messi’s departure after just two years in the French capital, with the 35-year-old set to join MLS outfit Inter Miami.
Real Madrid is on the verge of securing the most significant transfer of the 2023 summer window, as reports indicate that they have reached a deal with Paris Saint-Germain to acquire Kylian Mbappe.
The 24-year-old French forward has long been a target for Los Blancos, with club president Florentino Perez being an ardent admirer of the talented player, who won the Golden Ball at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
According to sources such as Sportskeeda, an agreement worth €250 million, which includes €50 million in bonuses, has purportedly been reached between Real Madrid and PSG for Mbappe’s transfer to the Spanish club during this summer.
PSG have decided to cash in on their French superstar this summer after the striker informed the reigning Ligue 1 champions he would not be extending his contract in the capital city beyond 2024.
Mbappe, the 2022/23 Ligue 1 MVP, is now set to replace his fellow Frenchman, Karim Benzema, who left the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium for Saudi Pro League champions, Al-Ittihad, this month.
Mbappe to sign until 2029
Meanwhile, Mbappe is expected to sign a 5-year deal upon completion of his move to Real Madrid this summer after an agreementwas reached with PSG, per transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano.
With Los Blancos agreeing to a €250mil deal, including more in add-ons, the 24-year-old forward is set to sign a contract to join the Santiago Bernabeu outfit until the summer of 2029.
Mbappe sent PSG into a spin after he sent a letter to the Ligue 1 champions, informing them of his decision not to extend his current contract, which was set to run out in 2024.
Messi gives Mbappe transfer advice
Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Lionel Messi giving Mbappe advice and also taking a subtle dig at PSG, just weeks before the Argentine joins Inter Miami in MLS.
Mbappe sent PSG into a spin after he sent a letter to the Ligue 1 champions, informing them of his decision not to extend his current contract, which was set to run out in 2024.
Messi gives Mbappe transfer advice
Earlier, Sports Brief reported onLionel Messi giving Mbappe advice and also taking a subtle dig at PSG, just weeks before the Argentine joins Inter Miami in MLS.
The AS Roma manager conveyed his decision in a formal letter to UEFA’s Chief of Football, Zvonimir Boban.
While the exact reason for Mourinho’s departure remains undisclosed, the wording in his letter suggests that it may be connected to the lengthy ban he received on June 21.
This ban was a consequence of his verbal confrontation with match official Anthony Taylor following the Europa League final between Roma and Sevilla in Budapest last month.
A viral video showed the veteran tactician hurling insults at the English official in what looked like a parking lot. Taylor and his family were later confronted by Roma fans at the Budapest Airport.
In his letter to UEFA, Mourinho thanked the European governing football body for their invitation.
“In thanking you for the invitation you extended to me to be a member of the UEFA football board, I regret to inform you that, effective immediately, I will be renouncing my participation in this group.”
The Portuguese tactician stated plainly that the board was no longer following the ideals he believed in.
“The conditions which I so strongly believed in when I joined are no longer standing and I felt the obligation to take this decision. I kindly ask that you also communicate my decision to the President Mr. Aleksander Ceferin,” he said, as quoted by the Athletic.
Roma are expected to appeal against the ban once they get a full details of the judgement.
What is UEFA’s Football Board?
The board is comprised of a group of former players and elite coaches, brought together to tackle issues in the game of football, such as the laws and schedules.
As UEFA reports, the executive committee approved the board on April 24 and they meet in Nyon annually.
Apart from Mourinho, other coaches on the board include Carlo Ancelotti, Zinedine Zidane, Gareth Southgate, and Ronald Koeman. Former players include Petr Cech, Gareth Bale, and Juan Mata.
Mourinho’s future at Roma
Sports Brief has also reported that Mourinho’s next coaching move remains unclear after AS Roma lost the UEFA Europa League final against Sevilla in a controversial manner.
The Portuguese veteran joined the Italians in 2021 on a three-year contract, but after two years of overachieving with limited financial backing, there are doubts he will continue.
Mourinho guided Roma to winning the inaugural UEFA Europa Conference League in his first season in charge and reached back-to-back European cup finals in his second season.
As part of its efforts to advance STEM education, the government plans to officially establish a Creative Arts Senior High School in Kumasi, located in the Ashanti Region, in September 2023.
Prospective students who successfully pass the audition process will have the opportunity to enroll in this school, which is currently being constructed. The institution aims to integrate science and engineering into its art-focused curriculum.
The Education Minister, Yaw Osei Adutwum, made this announcement during the STEM Road Show held in Accra on Thursday, June 22.
The Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to ensure that students are moulded in the creative arts industry and emphasized that the backend and front end of creative arts will help the country in developing its human capital.
Dr. Yaw Adutwum disclosed, “Our creative arts Senior High School in the city of Kumasi under construction is going to receive students from across the length and breadth of Ghana.
It is going to be a boarding school, and you have to be auditioned to get into this school.
By September, I have been assured by the Ghana Education Service and Ghana TVET service, which are working together to ensure the operationalization of the school, that, the school will start enrolling students across the country.
He added, “And we will ensure the future of the country is moulded in the creative arts industry and other professionals who will do the backend of creative arts and front end of creative arts to help the nation in our search towards developing first-class human capital.
It is something that will put us at the forefront of socio-economic transformation. The world went through the second industrial revolution [steam engine]”.
“We are not jumping to full steam, however, we want to make sure that art courses are integrated into our STEM schools. So that we will create a well-rounded citizenry, and not just focus on engineering and other related courses,”Dr. Yaw Osei-Adutwum stated.
He further disclosed that the government has built a number of STEM schools in the country.
“More of these STEM schools are under construction, I’m excited about STEM schools in Kumasi.”
The Minority Caucus in Parliament is urging the government to promptly allocate funds for the desilting of crucial drains in Accra in order to alleviate the effects of flooding in the capital city.
This appeal comes in response to the significant rainfall experienced on Wednesday, June 21, which the Caucus claims resulted in injuries and property destruction in various areas of Accra.
During a parliamentary session, Minority Chief Whip, Governs Agbodza, issued a statement emphasizing the urgent need for the government to take decisive measures in addressing the recurring issue of flooding.
“It is not beyond the capability of Parliament to help the relevant agencies to finance the needed interventions to save lives and desilting major drains and gutters in Accra cannot be something beyond the funding of the government and with the approval of Parliament and that is why I call upon the House to take this opportunity to invite our colleague Minister of Works and Housing to brief the House as soon as he can.”
Majority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh, however, says the Works and Housing Committee of Parliament should be more proactive in its work to help contain the situation.
“More often than not, the matter occurs, and then we tend to call on the Speaker to make a referral or rather expect the sector minister to be called upon to appraise the House and so what? It is high time our Committee leaders also get a bit proactive. These disasters have been occurring, and we would have expected the Committee on Works and Housing to at least, by now, start visiting some of these places and also coming to brief the House.”
General Secretary of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Prosper Harrison Addo, has disclosed that preparations are underway to pay tribute to formerBlack Stars captain Asamoah Gyan in light of his retirement announcement on Tuesday.
Gyan, who made significant contributions to Ghana’s national team, has established himself as one of the country’s most esteemed footballers, featuring prominently in numerous tournaments and securing the position as Ghana’s all-time leading scorer with 51 goals in 109 appearances.
Furthermore, Gyan’s remarkable performance in three World Cup tournaments, amassing six goals, has earned him the distinction of being Africa’s top scorer in this prestigious competition.
Due to his exceptional feats, achieved in football, the announcement of his retirement attracted many tributes from federations, teammates, and former footballers as well as football fans among others.
On the part of the GFA, they will go beyond just paying verbal tribute but meet Gyan, plan, and come out with a massive celebration to honour the 37-year-old.
“He is a true legend. We have congratulated him and he deserves all the accolades for what he has done for all of us in terms of the development of the game and the wonderful memories he has given us over the years,” he told Asempa FM
“However, in terms of what we have to do to celebrate him, we would have to take our time and plan together with him so that it can be done in grand style.So we will engage him and come out.
Former coach of the Ghanaian national football team, Avram Grant, expressed his gratitude to the people of Ghana for their warm reception since his arrival in the country on June 20, 2023.
Currently serving as the head coach of the Zambian national team, Grant is in Ghana to lead the technical team of foreign-based players participating in the 2023 All-Star Festival in Brong Ahafo this June.
At a cocktail dinner held at the luxurious Eusbett Hotel in Sunyani, Grant had the privilege of addressing the All-Star Team, captained by national team skipper Andre Ayew.
Expressing his gratitude, the 68-year-old commended the Business African Consulting (The BAC) Group, who are the event organizers, for extending a kind invitation and ensuring he felt warmly received by Ghanaians.
“It feels great to be back in Ghana and I feel so much at home”, he said.
AVRAM GRANT AND ANDRE AYEW
Mr. Ranford Antwi, the Chairman of the Local organizing committee thanked the Skipper of the Black Stars, Andre Ayew, for becoming the first National Team Captain to lead his boys to feature in a game of football in the Brong Ahafo Region and urged the people to troop to the Dormaa NAM 1 Park, on Thursday afternoon, June 22, at 3 pm to have enjoyed the football extravaganza.
Former Black Stars players and other legends like Dan Owusu, Ntow Gyan, Awudu Issaka, Mr. Augustine Asante, Isaac Oppong, among others were at the occasion.
Italian powerhouse Juventushas shown keen interest in acquiring the services of Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey.
According to renowned football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Bianconeri have made inquiries regarding Partey’s availability.
It has been reported that Juventus would be open to pursuing the Ghanaian midfielder if French midfielder Adrien Rabiot departs from the club.
Furthermore, there are undisclosed clubs from Saudi Arabia willing to pay €40 million in installments to secure Partey’s signature from Arsenal.
However, the former Atletico Madrid midfielder is yet to decide on a move to play in the Gulf, a report by Romano claims.
The Ghanaian is on Arsenals’ outgoing list as the club aims at freeing up their wage bill to make room for new signings. But the Gunners are only willing to cash in on Partey, who has two years left in his contract, for the right price.
Thomas Partey, who has been a big contributor to Arsenal’s resurgence, joined the Gunners in 2020.
Following allegations of infidelity by the Brazilian press, Paris Saint-Germain forwardNeymar (31) has taken to Instagram to publicly apologize.
The soccer star, who is currently expecting a child with his partner Bruna Biancardi, admitted to cheating on her with blogger Fernanda Campos.
In a heartfelt and lengthy Instagram post shared on Wednesday evening, Neymar acknowledged the affair and earnestly asked for forgiveness from Biancardi.
Neymar”s message to Biancardi reads as follows: “I do this for you two, and your family. Justifying injustice. It was unnecessary, but I need you in OUR life. I can see the extent to which you’ve been exposed, how much you’ve suffered in all of this, and how much you want to be at my side, and me at yours,”he began.
“I cheated on you guys. I risk saying that I fail every day, on and off the pitch. Only, I resolve my personal issues at home, in the intimacy of my friends and family. All of this has impacted the most special person in my life, the woman I dreamed of having by my side, the mother of my child. This has hurt her family, who have now become my family. Your intimacy has been affected in such a special time – maternity.”
“I have already apologised for my errors, for the useless exposure, but I feel obliged to reassert it publically. If a private affair becomes public, the apology should be public.”
“I can’t imagine myself without you. I don’t know if we will move forward, but TODAY, you really want to try. Our intention will triumph, our love for our baby will win, and our love for each other will fortify us. I love you,” concluded the message.
Whilst Neymar has problems to resolve in his personal life, there are also questions about his future at PSG. According to L’Équipe, the forward is now wanting to remain with Les Parisiens with former manager Luis Enrique set to take the helm. The Brazilian had previously been open to a departure and had notably been linked with a move to Manchester United.
Neymar hasn’t played for PSG since mid-February after suffering ankle ligament damage against Lille OSC. He then underwent surgery but is expected to return to action next month.
Carragher’s warning came in response to reports linking Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva with a potential move to the top flight in Saudi Arabia.
According to ESPN, Silva has received a lucrative offer from the Middle East, which presents a tempting proposition for the Portuguese star. Carragher’s remarks highlight the potential impact of such moves on European football and the allure of the financial incentives involved.
Several Premier League stars, including N’golo Kante and Hakim Ziyech, have all but secured moves to the Middle East, leading to a concern over the transfer dealings between the Middle Eastern nation and some European clubs.
While there is no doubt Saudi Arabia has made its presence known in the transfer market, Carragher is concerned about the future of European top-flight leagues, specifically the Premier League.
The former footballer-turned-pundit tweeted on Wednesday, June 21 that has since gone viral as it rang alarm bells over the potential of top football stars abandoning Europe in their prime to play in Saudi Arabia.
Bernardo Silva is in his peak years & has been one of the best players in Europe for the last five years!
I wasn’t worried about the Saudi League taking players in their 30’s, a touch worried with players below the elite (Neves) but if this happens it feels like a game changer… https://t.co/hcDUbkGp30
“Bernardo Silva is in his peak years & has been one of the best players in Europe for the last five years,” he tweeted.
“I wasn’t worried about the Saudi League taking players in their 30’s, a touch worried with players below the elite (Neves) but if this happens it feels like a game changer.”
Who else has joined Saudi Arabia?
Interestingly, Carragher’s colleague Gary Neville also recently called on investigations into the big money transfers and offers from Saudi Arabia to big names in European football.
Wolverhampton Wanderers playmaker Ruben Neves also stunned the football world recently, after it was confirmed that he would be joining the Saudi Arabia pro league, ending speculation of a potential move to Barcelona.
