The Brazilian winger first wore the number 25 at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium before moving to the number 20.
Yet, he now has the honour of donning this legendary piece thanks to his impressive development and steady performances in recent seasons.
As reported by AS, Vinicius will don the coveted No. 7 jersey, which was worn by Eden Hazard from 2019 to 2023.
The winger will also follow in the footsteps of legendary names like Raymond Kopa, Amancio Amaro Varela, Juanito, Emilio Butragueño, Raúl, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Despite his tender age of 22, Vini has already amassed an astonishing 225 appearances for Los Blancos, making significant contributions with 59 goals and 64 assists, per Transfermarkt.
While he inherits Real Madrid’s iconic shirt number, his compatriot, Rodrygo de Goes will take up the No.11 jersey after previously occupying the 21 shirt.
Vini among Most Valuable Players
Sports Brief also reported on Vini finishing behind only Erling Haaland in the ranking of the Most Valuable Player presently, according to research group CIES Football Observatory.
Undoubtedly Real Madrid’s best player this season, Vinicius churned out superlative performances week-in and week-out with little fuss, despite enduring persistent fan racism.
Ballon d’Or ranking: Vinicius drops
Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Vini falling down the rankings as Lionel Messi prepares to battle Erling Haaland for the 2023 edition of the Ballon d’Or award.
The Real Madrid winger finished the season with the Copa Del Rey, the Club World Club, and the UEFA Super Cup to his name, but ranks lower on the award list.
Vinicius is the only player in Europe’s top 5 leagues to have scored at least 20 goals (24) and provided at least 20 assists (25) in all competitions, bar Messi.
Vela emphasized that while Messi’s arrival in MLS is a positive development for the growth of football in the country, it will not change the fact that LAFC remains the favorites for the league title.
Last week, Messi officially announced that he would be joining Inter Miami following the conclusion of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain on June 30.
Despite being linked with other clubs such as Barcelona and Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, Messi explained that he sought peace of mind, which influenced his decision to choose Miami.
The player, who was heavily linked with both Barcelona and Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, later revealed that he wanted more peace of mind, which propelled him to choose Miami over others.
Vela, who plies his trade at LAFC since joining from Real Sociedad in 2018, welcomed Messi’s arrival but remains confident about his team’s chances of winning silverware. Speaking to US TV channel TUDN, the Mexican said:
“It’s great news for MLS, but I still think that we are still the ones who want to win the title. It doesn’t matter who is on the other teams. Plans don’t change.”
LAFC find themselves in the third spot in the Western Conference table, are the current MLS Cup holders. Inter Miami, on the other hand, are at the bottom of the Eastern Conference rankings.
The MLS’s transfer window opens on July 5, meaning that Inter Miami will not be able to register Messi before then. If he is registered as soon as the window opens, Messi could play his first MLS game against Wayne Rooney’s DC United on July 9.
Vela vs Messi in Spain
According to Whoscored, Carlos Vela and Lionel Messi faced each other 16 times during their time together in Spain, across La Liga and Copa del Rey.
The Mexican, who faced Messi once as an Osasuna player and 15 times as a Real Sociedad man, lost 10 times and won only on four occasions.
During Vela’s stint at Sociedad, between 2012 and 2018, Messi scored 13 goals against La Real in 18 games across competitions.
The pair faced each other in international colours as well. Messi’s Argentina beat Mexico 4-1 in a friendly in 2008, with Messi scoring once.
In 2015, they played another friendly, playing out to a 2-2 draw. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner was on the scoresheet that time as well.
Vela has stated that while Messi joining MLS is excellent news for the country’s footballing culture, Inter Miami will not dethrone LAFC as league-title favourites.
The Black Stars players have reported for their training camp in preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar.
Pictures shared on social media by the official Black Stars handle depict the players arriving at the team hotel, dressed in casual attire.
As of now, the Ghana Football Association has not confirmed the exact number of players who have arrived out of the 24-man squad that was announced for the national team.
However, from the images posted on social media, skipper Andre Ayew, Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Salis Samed, Kasim Nuhu, Majeed Ashimeru, Osman Buakri, Hafiz Konkoni, and Joseph Aidoo, Gideon Mensah, Joseph Paintsil have all arrived.
The team is currently lodging at the Alisa Hotel and will train at the Accra Sports Stadium before they departGhana for Madagascar.
The game is scheduled for June 18, 2023.
Players in photos:
Black Stars Capt.Andre Dede Ayew arrives at campAte Zigi is here Jordan Ayew steps out of carSaliz abdul Samed Joseph PaintsilHafiz Konkoni
Manchester City secured their first-ever Champions League title with a 1-0 victory over Inter Milan in Istanbul.
The triumph represents a significant accomplishment for the Citizens, as it fulfills their long-standing ambition of capturing the most prestigious club competition in Europe.
Both Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) had set winning the Champions League as their ultimate objective in recent seasons, having dominated their respective domestic leagues.
Manchester City has claimed five out of the last six Premier League titles in England, showcasing their domestic prowess.
Similarly, PSG has been dominant in Ligue 1, clinching the league title all but twice since 2013.
However, it was Manchester City who ultimately emerged victorious in the Champions League, attaining their sought-after goal.
After a failed final effort in 2021, Man City would finally go on to conquer Europe and be crowned UCL winners for the first time over the weekend.
However, PSG seem to have their house in disarray after another woeful season in the competition.
Sports Brief has outlined where PSG must emulate Manchester City if they intend to one day be crowned Champions League winners.
1. Assemble a balanced squad
PSG has a star-studded squad but one that is not balanced, making the club’s bid to conquer Europe all the more challenging.
The Parisians have spent considerable sums bringing world-class players such as Lionel Messi, Neymar Junior, Kylian Mbappe, and Sergio Ramos into their fold but still needed more in-depth quality.
PSG had one of the best attacking line-up in Europe last season with Neymar, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe. Photo by Aurelien Meunier
Source: Getty Images
Pep Guardiola has been praised for his tactical genius in creating a monstrous Man City team, but he would only have achieved that by having quality players all around.
With PSG, however, the first team seems to have much of the quality while the bench consists of average players who would only work if given the mantle to lead the team.
2. Stick with a world-class manager
Paris Saint-Germain have witnessed at least seven people come and go as managers of the Ligue 1 giants since 2012 – when the club started the real push to win the Champions League.
Top-rated managers such as Carlo Ancelotti, Unai Emery, Thomas Tuchel, and Mauricio Pochettino had brief reigns in the French capital but were let go after failing to win the European crown.
According to Goal, PSG’s latest manager, Christophe Galtier has also been shown the door after just one season at the helm, with the club now said to be on the lookout for a new manager.
Man City, meanwhile, has stuck with Guardiola for six seasons despite his previous failure to land the UCL trophy.
3. Turn the fans into supporters
PSG has been plagued with too many distractions from their fanbase this season, with some players – chiefly Messi – getting booed by their supporters.
According to Marca, hundreds of fans showed up with megaphones, flares, and banners at the club headquarters, calling for the Argentine and Neymar to leave.
This has not been the case for past winners of theUEFA Champions League, where their fans have stuck with their respective teams through good and bad times.
With Man City, their fans have been there through the rough patches and supported their team, while the PSG fans always look for scapegoats whenever the team fails to perform.
PSG dealt another transfer blow
Earlier, there were reports on PSG’s management plans suffering a blow after Zinédine Zidane reportedly turned down their offer to replace Galtier at the Parc des Princes.
It has been widely reported the former OGC Nice manager, who only arrived at the club last summer, has already been informed by management that he must now leave.
It is reported that Chelsea is in search of an experienced goalkeeper, as their current options, Kepa and Edouard Mendy, are not considered favorable by the incoming manager Mauricio Pochettino.
Football London suggests that Onana has become a key target for Chelsea, with several other clubs also expressing interest in the Cameroonian goalkeeper due to his impressive performances throughout the season with Inter.
The former Ajax ace was part of Inter’s squad that lost to Manchester City in the Champions League final on Saturday in Istanbul.
However, he was unable to help his side win the tournament, with Rodri’s solitary goal steering City to victory.
Onana speaks on Chelsea links
The Cameroon international used the occasion to address rumours linking him with a possible summer move to Stamford Bridge.
Speaking on the reports, Onana was coy about what the future holds for him at San Siro, adding that he is happy at the club.
“I don’t know. The truth is that I’m happy here, but then at a certain level you never know how it will go,” Metro UK quoted Onana saying when asked about his future.
“I have no problems with Inter. I have an excellent relationship with them and I’m at their disposal. I’ll do what they tell me,” he added.
Onana consoles Martinez
Earlier, it was reported that Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana showed class after immediately running to a visibly broken Lautaro Martinez to console him following the defeat to Manchester City in the final of the UEFA Champions League.
Martinez had a chance to win the game for the Italian giants moments before Rodri netted the only goal as Manchester City were crowned champions of Europe.
After the game, Martinez seemed to have not forgiven himself for the missed opportunity as he broke down in uncontrollable tears.
The only member of Chris Hughton’s 24-man squad who hasnot yet reported to the Black Stars camp as they get ready for their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar is Arsenal star and deputy captain Thomas Teye Partey.
With the exception of Partey, who is anticipated to arrive on Tuesday, June 13, following a fantastic season with the Gunners, all players who were invited have dutifully reported to the team’s camp at the Alisa Hotel in Accra as of Monday, June 12.
The former Tema Youth player played an integral role for Mikel Arteta’s side in the just-ended 2022–23 English Premier League. He made a total of 39 appearances in all competitions and scored three goals.
The team led by skipper Andre Ayew will open their first training sessions at the Accra Sports Stadium later on Monday, June 11, and will continue for the next four days before they jet off to Madagascar.
The match will take place on Sunday, June 18, at the Mahamasina Municipal Stadium in Antananarivo, Madagascar’s capital city.
The Black Stars lead Group E with eight points, having won two and drawn two.
Michael Essien, the former Ghanaian international and Chelsea star, has chosen his former teammate Frank Lampard as the best player he has ever played alongside.
Essien and Lampard shared the pitch during their time at Chelsea, where they achieved notable success, including winningthe UEFA Champions League, the Premier League title, the FA Cup, the Community Shield, and the Football League Cup.
Essien joined Chelsea in 2005 after transferring from Olympique Marseille, while Lampard had joined the club from West Ham in 2001. Both players departed Chelsea at the conclusion of the 2013/2014 season.
Throughout their time together, they formed a formidable partnership on the field, leading Essien to regard Lampard as the finest player he has had the privilege of playing alongside.
According to Essien, he played with a lot and loved all his teammates, but his midfield partner Lampard is the best of them all.
“Everybody is my teammate. I love all my teammates; I mean it’s hard to choose. But I would go for Frank Lampard. I mean, being a midfielder that scores a lot of goals every season is quite amazing”, he told Goal Africa.
Essien. 40, had a successful playing career which saw him play for top European teams such as Bastia, Lyon, Chelsea, Real Madrid, AC Milan, Panathinaikos, Persib Bandung and Sabail where he ended his playing career
Currently, he is attached to Danish club Nordsjaelland, where he works as an assistant coach.
Alphonso Davies, a defender for Bayern Munich, claims that theGhana Football Association (GFA) contacted him about playing for Ghana but that it was too late.
The left-back, who was born in Ghana to Liberian parents, was qualified to represent both Ghana and Liberia, but chose to represent Canada after earning Canadian citizenship in June 2017.
Despite playing football for a while, Davies said he was never considered because he ‘wasn’t a big name’ and it took a big transfer move for Ghana to act.
According to him, there was an attempt from the Ghana FA to play for the national team at some point but the timing of the approach was too late for him to reconsider his decision with the contact coming on Instagram.
“Ghana never reached out and also my mum was like, no [to the idea of me playing for Ghana],” he said when quizzed whether was an option to play for the country of his birth.
“I was playing like not even like the academy they never like said [anything about wanting me] I wasn’t a big name. When the news came out that I was going to Bayern, then I got a message from the Ghana federation.
Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies reveals an official from the GFA texted him via Instagram to play for Ghana after his move to Bayern was confirmed.
“I think it was someone on the federation he texted me on Instagram because he didn’t have my number or email. But it was too late, at that time I had already got my citizenship and already made it to [represent] Canada.”
Davies made his first debut for the Canadian national team in June 2017 becoming the youngest player to play for the senior team.
The 22-year-old has 13 goals in 39 appearances for Canada since making his debut.
Djokovic surpassed Rafael Nadal’s record of 22 Grand Slam wins, solidifying his position as the player with the most major titles, following his triumph over Casper Ruud in the final.
As reported by Sportskeeda, Mbappe was present at the Court Philippe-Chatrier, watching the Grand Slam final alongside recently retired AC Milan star Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The event also saw the presence of American football quarterback Tom Brady, who was spotted in Djokovic’s player box, showing his support for the Serbian as he went on to secure victory in the match.
Boxing legend Mike Tyson was also spotted keenly observing the proceedings on Court Philippe-Chatrier in what was an amazing night for Djokovic, who has now won the first two Grand Slams of the Tennis season.
Kylian Mbappe and Zlatan Ibrahimovic watching the tennis together at Roland-Garros 🇫🇷#SportsGist Black Stars | Ansu Fati | Newcastle | Hilda | Lautaro pic.twitter.com/zQx8WEvnlA
Meanwhile, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has claimed Kylian Mbappe will become a ‘Galactico’ as Los Blancos continue their chase for the French forward, Goal reports.
Perez appears to have hinted that Mbappe could be enticed to join Spain as a free agent next year after missing out on signing the Paris Saint-Germain forward last summer.
Real had a €220 million offer for Mbappe on the table at one point in 2021, but PSG turned it down as they fought desperately to keep the talismanic French forward on their books.
Mbappe wins special award
Earlier, Sports Brief reported Kylian Mbappe was named Ligue 1 Player of the Season for the fourth time in a row on Sunday night.
The 24-year-old has scored 28 goals in the league this term and is on course to finish as Ligue 1’s top scorer for the fifth season running.
The Frenchman was crowned in a ceremony in Paris ahead of teammate Lionel Messi, Loïs Openda and Séko Fofana of Lens, and Lille striker Jonathan David.
A man has surfaced on the internet, making a claim to be the father of Marcus Rashford, the renowned player for Manchester United.
In a video that has gained widespread attention online, the individual reveals his identity and explains that he has chosen to share his story in order to ensure that Rashford and his generation are not overlooked or forgotten.
While expressing his respect for Melanie, the footballer’s mother, the man firmly asserts that it is crucial to reveal the truth.
The man also said that he’s not going public with the claim because he wants money, but because he wants his son.
The man further stated that there’s no need for DNA as he alreadyknows the footballer’s mother.
The father of Enzo Maresca, an assistant coach for Manchester City, has been located after going missing during the Champions League final in Istanbul.
The father of Maresca was among the City fans who travelled to the Ataturk Stadium to watch the Premier League powerhouses when they faced Inter Milan.
The old man was reported missing, though, during the game, according to The Mirror, which prompted a hasty search for him.
It is believed that Maresca, who has established himself as Guardiola’s right-hand man, was notified of his father’s abduction and made an effort to call him.
An announcement was made on the ground for Maresca’s father to make himself known to the nearest steward, with the message also shown on the big screens inside the stadium.
After hours of searching, he is understood to have finally been found safe and sound, with La Gazzetta dello Sport reporting that he was located in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Who is Enzo Maresca?
Maresca has built a reputation for himself as Pep Guardiola’s right-hand man, with the tactician among the people behind the scenes of Man City’s success.
The 43-year-old started off his football career as a player, plying his trade with West Brom and Juventus, where he won the Serie A.
He later transitioned into management, initially taking up a role with Man City’s development squad.
He went on to take charge of Parma in Serie B before he joined City’s backroom staff last summer after Juanma Lillo departed for a managerial role in Saudi Arabia.
The tactician has since been linked with the vacant Celtic and Leicester City roles.
Inter legend misses Istanbul trip
Earlier, it was reported that Inter Milan cult hero, Adriano missed the chance to cover the Champions League final in Istanbul because he was partying, according to reports.
Adriano is a familiar name among Inter fans, as the Brazilian had some memorable moments as a Nerazzuri in the early 2000s.
Because of his legendary status at Inter, it only made sense that he was invited to be a pundit for the final, where his former side came up against Manchester City on Saturday, June 10.
Herbert Hainer, the President of Bayern Munich, has made a strong statement confirming that they, along with other club officials, are closely monitoring Nigerian and Napoli striker Victor Osimhen during this summer transfer window.
Osimhen had an outstanding performance during the 2022/23 Serie A season, playing a pivotal role in Napoli’s triumph as they clinched the Scudetto after a 33-year wait.
His remarkable season also saw him secure the Golden Boot award, making him the first-ever African player to achieve this feat in the history of Serie A.
Given his impressive achievements, Osimhen has garnered attention from top clubs, with Bayern Munich expressing their keen interest in monitoring the talented striker’s progress during the ongoing transfer period.
Osimhen’s superb performances have made him a target for clubs like Chelsea, Man United, and Paris Saint-Germain.
According to reports on Soccernet and Football London, Herbert Hainer explained that he is aware of the fact that Bayern will have to spend big for them to have Osimhen.
Herbert Hainer on Osimhen
“As a striker costs a lot, we have to make sure he fits well at Bayern. The same names are mentioned in the media: Kolo Muani, Harry Kane, Osimhen, Vlahovic.
“We are watching closely to see who is a better fit at Bayern. We’re also looking at the financial side. I am convinced that we will find a good solution.”
Victor Osimhen flaunts his daughter
Earlier, Sports Brief had reported how Victor Osimhen showcased his adorable daughter to the world as Napoli welcomed Sampdoria in their final Serie A game of the season.
The 24-year-old led the Partenopei to the Scudetto this season, with his 26 goals making him the top scorer.
Osimhen was on the scoresheet again in Napoli’s final match of the season, after he netted from the spot in the 64th minute.
Giovanni Simeone scored the second goal to seal Napoli’s historic season with a 2-0 win.
Before the game, Osimhen took the opportunity to show off his beautiful daughter, Hailey, while thanking the Napoli fans for their remarkable support throughout their season.
Ruud van Nistelrooy will be replaced by Peter Bosz at PSV Eindhoven.
Bosz, 59, was ousted from his position as Lyon’s head coach in October.
The Dutchman has previously played for German clubs Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen as well as Ajax, where he led the Amsterdam giants to the 2016–17 Europa League final.
Bosz has been chosen by PSV to replace Van Nistelrooy, who left the Philips Stadion after the club won the Johan Cruyff Shield and KNVB Cup that season.
On the new position, Bosz said: “It’s a good feeling to be the head coach of this big club.
“I’ve felt at home since the first meeting. Both PSV and I are hungry for trophies. PSV won two prizes last season but it’s our aim to win the Eredivisie title this coming season. We will give our very best to reach our dream goal.
“I think there will be a good connection between my coaching style and the squad. PSV largely dominated Dutch football for several spells and I am looking forward to reliving that period.”
PSV director of football Earnest Stewart added: “Along with the players, the head coach is the most important person within our organization.
“That’s why we looked to fill the vacant managerial position as quickly as possible, also with an eye on the summer transfer window. Peter was our first-choice candidate, so we are pleased to have him on board.”
PSV ended the 2022-23 season two points behind champions Feyenoord, while they exited the Europa League in the knockout round play-offs to eventual winners Sevilla.
Brentford striker Ivan Toney has expressed his frustration with the Football Association (FA) for what he considers a “spiteful” act of leaking his betting charges.
Toney has recently spoken openly about the situation, marking the first time he has addressed the issue since receiving an eight-month ban. He admitted to 232 breaches of the FA’s betting rules.
In the previous month, Toney was handed a £50,000 fine and suspended from all football-related activities until January 17 due to his betting offenses spanning over four years.
The allegations against the 27-year-old initially surfaced in late 2022 and had significant consequences, as it cost him a place in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the upcoming World Cup in Qatar.
Toney’s discontent stems from the manner in which his charges were made public, deeming it a malicious act by the FA. His focus now lies on serving his ban and moving forward from this challenging period in his career.
Toney opened up in the Kick Game YouTube channel, where he claimed missing out on the World Cup was more painful than the 8-month ban that was imposed on him.
He also faulted the FA for the manner in which his betting offences were publicized, describing it as ‘spiteful’.
‘People try to break people down,’ He said as per BBC.
‘It came out, just before the England camp, obviously missing out on the World Cup… In a way, it was kind of like: ‘get out now so you don’t go [away with] England’.
‘And then all of a sudden they want to wait until the end of the season… but it is what it is. They wanted to do it that way. I call it a bit spiteful. You just have to get on with it.
According to Toney, missing out on the World Cup was a ‘bigger punishment’, but he hopes to make the next one, when he will be 31.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham had previously stated there was no relationship between the timing of the betting charges and Toney’s omission from the England squad, which he claimed was for sporting reasons.
Toney’s plan B to keep fit
It was also reported on Ivan Toney’s next course of action to stay fit after he was banned from footballing activity.
The 27-year-old could join a rugby team for pre-season ahead of his return to training on September 17, as their core fitness training regime is fundamentally similar to football.
Brentford boss, Thomas Frank and England national team head coach, Gareth Southgate both frowned at the ban on training, claiming it is not the best rehabilitation process to leave him out of the football community.
The former Italian prime minister from Milan bought the team in 1986 and prevented it from going bankrupt. Under his leadership, the Rossoneri won eight Serie A championships and five European Cups.
The contentious businessman later rose to the position of president of Monza, which was still held at the time of his death and was promoted back to the top division through the play-offs in 2022.
Berlusconi was treated for leukemia earlier this year but was reportedly hospitalised last week and died on Monday morning.
Milan said in a statement on their Twitter account: “Deeply saddened,AC Milan grieves the passing of the unforgettable Silvio Berlusconi and wishes to reach out to the family, associates, and most cherished friends to share our sympathies.
“Tomorrow, we will dream of new ambitions, create new challenges and seek new victories. Which will represent the good, the strong, and the true that lies inside us, in all of us who shared this adventure of binding our lives to a dream called Milan. Thank you, Mr President. Always with us.”
Berlusconi ran the Serie A giants from 1986 to 2017 before selling to a Chinese investment management company.
Carlo Ancelotti, who played for and later managed Milan during Berlusconi’s reign, posted a message of sympathy.
“Today’s sadness doesn’t erase the happy moments spent together,” wrote Ancelotti, who won two league titles and two European Cups as a player at the San Siro before going on to lead them to the league title and two Champions League successes as manager.
“There remains infinite gratitude to the president, but above all to an ironic, loyal, intelligent, sincere man, fundamental in my adventure as a football player first, and then as a coach. Thank you President.”
Monza, meanwhile, also paid their respects to Belusconi, who took control of the club in 2018 through holding company Fininvest.
“(Chief executive) Adriano Galliani and all AC Monza mourn the loss of Silvio Berlusconi: ‘A void that can never be filled, forever with us. Thank you for everything President’,” read a message on the club’s Twitter account.
Manchester City has received a warning not to become complacent following their historic achievement of winning the UEFA Champions League and completing the elusive treble.
The team reached their second-ever final and went one step further this time, defeating Inter Milan 1-0 at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul, having previously lost to Chelsea in their first final two years ago.
The decisive goal came from Spanish midfielder Rodri in the second half, as he skillfully found the net while evading two Inter defenders and goalkeeper Andre Onana.
This victory marks Pep Guardiola’s second treble, with his first coming during his inaugural season as the manager of Barcelona in 2008/09. This achievement formed part of an extraordinary sextuple-winning season for the Catalan club.
Despite this remarkable success, it is cautioned that Manchester City must not become complacent and should continue to strive for further accomplishments in the future.
Wenger issues warning to Guardiola
Legendary former Arsenal boss, Arsene Wenger is critical even in celebrations of City’s achievements and has sent a warning to Guardiola on what to do next to keep the team afloat.
“What do you do now at City? Do you go for a new challenge? Motivate yourself for a new challenge? Or do you stay, take advantage of the credit and continue to develop this team?” he said, via Mirror UK.
The Gunners legend believes it is certain the club will also lose important players in short order.
“This team is not an old team but there are no young players. Apart from Haaland, who is 22 now, all the others are between 24 and 32 years old. So two or three new players will need to change. They have to find the same quality again.”
Wenger’s advice is something the former Barcelona boss is already a master at. He has the ability to move players on before they degenerate totally in the team.
According to The Sun, City are planning a summer overhaul which includes Ilkay Gundogan, Kyle Walker, Aymeric Laporte, Joao Cancelo, Kalvin Philips, Bernardo Silva, and Riyad Mahrez.
Ferguson sends message to Guardiola
It was also reported on Sir Alex Ferguson sending a message to Guardiola ahead of the final, which saw City become the second English club to win the treble after the Scot’s 1998/99 squad.
The Citizens also won their third consecutive Premier League title this season, matching another of Fergie’s records, which he achieved twice during his 27 years at the helm of Manchester United.
Isabel Johansen, the girlfriend of Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, experienced immense joy and celebration as she marked her partner’s triumph in the Champions League on Saturday, June 10.
Manchester City secured their first-ever Champions League title with a 1-0 victory over Inter Milan, courtesy of a goal scored by Rodri in the second half.
This achievement also completed a treble for manager Pep Guardiola this season, making him the first coach to accomplish this feat with two different clubs, having previously done so with Barcelona in 2009.
Following the game, Johansen was captured in photos alongside Haaland, and social media images showcased her radiant presence adorned with a Norwegian flag during the festive celebrations.
More photos showed the couple posing alongside the Champions League trophy, with families of theManchester City players being invited to join in the on-pitch celebrations.
Also in the stands was Haaland’s dad Alfie, who spent 10 seasons with Manchester City before the club became the force that many fans know of today.
The moment that warmed many fans on social media was when Johansen caught up to Haaland, who was seated on a chair in the middle of the pitch, before wrapping the flag around the striker and seemingly locking lips with him.
Haaland then showed the gentle side of him as he offered Johansen his seat soon after.
19-year old Johansen is reported to have moved from Norway to Manchester, England to be closer to Haaland.
The couple met through the sport of football when they were still children after Haaland joined Norwegian side Bryne FK at just five years old.
Haaland’s dream debut season
In terms of his football, Haaland has had a season to remember at Manchester City in his very first year in England.
As per Transfermkt, the Norwegian scored 52 goals in 53 appearances across all competitions, winning a treble and individual awards along the way, including the Premier League Golden Boot and Player of The Season.
Inside Man City’s treble celebrations
Sports Brief also took a glimpse of Manchester City’s treble celebrations amongst the different players on Saturday evening.
Grealish, who led his teammates, friends and family to a nightclub, was caught on camera downing a few cans of booze.
On his part, Erling Haaland toasted his fine season with a cigar, with Kevin De Bruyne, who hobbled off with an injury in the first half, joining his teammates for celebration.
The final of the 2022/2023 European football season was marked by the UEFA Champions League final held in Istanbul.
This season proved to be physically demanding for all involved, as it featured a packed schedule, including a significant break for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
In a tightly contested match at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium, a decisive goal came from Rodri of Manchester City.
His superb curling shot from inside the penalty area secured victory against Inter Milan, allowing Manchester City to achieve a historic treble.
Considering the significance of both the World Cup and the Champions League, it is evident that these tournaments will play a vital role in determining the recipient of the highly coveted individual accolade in football, the Ballon d’Or.
It is set to be a two-horse race for the 2023 award. Sports Brief takes a look at how the vote would possibly go later this year in October.
6. Ilkay Gundogan
Should we call him Mr. Clutch instead? Gundogan’s late bloom to win the Premier League and the FA Cup for Manchester City in his first season as captain has seen his odds rise immensely.
He is definitely bettered by De Bruyne and Haaland in his own team, but his 13 goals and seven goals – especially towards the end of the season – cannot go unmentioned.
Ilkay Gundogan
He joins only a few captains to have captained their sides to winning a treble.
5. Vinicius Junior
It is a good thing the Ballon d’Or award does not account for only the kind of trophies won, but also individual performances as well.
The Real Madrid goal machine finished the season with the Copa Del Rey, the Club World Club, and the UEFA Super Cup.
Barcelona fans were heard chanting ‘Vinicius Die’ during the recent El Clasico fixture at Camp Nou. Image: Alex Caparros Source: Getty Images Read more: https://sportsbrief.com/football/barcelona/36867-barcelona-supporters-verbally-abuse-real-madrid-superstar-chants-vinicius-die/
He is the only player in Europe’s top 5 leagues to have scored at least 20 goals (24) and provided at least 20 assists (25) in all competitions, bar Lionel Messi.
4. Kylian Mbappe
If Messi will dominate this debate because of the World Cup, then his soon-to-be former teammate at Paris Saint-Germain, Kylian Mbappe deserves a shout as well – and with good reason.
The Frenchman was unlucky not to win the December 18 final at the Qatar World Cup despite a historic performance that saw him grab a hat-trick. He missed out on the trophy but won the Golden Boot.
Kylian Mbappe
He has also scored 53 goals and provided 14 assists this season in all competitions, on top of winning the Ligue 1.
3. Kevin De Bruyne
The Belgian heartbreakingly limped off in the UCL final – the second such time he has been forced off injured in the last game of a tournament.
Pep Guardiola and Kevin De Bruyne are dreaming of Champions League success with City (Martin Rickett/PA)
The 31-year-old remains the most elite playmaker in Europe, having provided 32 assists in all competitions.
2. Lionel Messi
Captaining his country and starring at the World Cup at 35 years, finally winning the trophy that eluded him in his illustrious career, saw Messi complete a romantic football moment.
After the Qatar triumph, it looked like he was a stroll for his record eighth Ballon d’Or title, only for Haaland’s heroics in that Manchester City super team to turn a solid argument into a debate.
Messi back in training with PSG after Saudi trip suspension and fine
Apart from the World Cup, the Argentine has also scored 38 times and provided 25 assists in all competitions.
1. Erling Haaland
Between the Champions League and the World Cup, the latter understandably carries more weight. However, the Man City striker has closed the gap on the serial winner, Messi in recent months after the Qatar event.
The 22-year-old might have been silent in the UCL final, but his 53 goals across all competitions helped the Citizens complete the historic treble, with the crowning moment coming in Turkey on June 10.
Erling Haaland has starred in his first season at Manchester City
The last time a player from the Premier League won the Ballon d’Or was Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008, after success in the UCL with Manchester United – an occurence Haaland has now replicated with Manchester City.
Could the Norwegian land his first Ballon d’Or at just 22 years of age – it seems so.
Other 2023 Ballon d’Or candidates
Meanwhile, Victor Osimhen and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s respective roles in Napoli’s title-winning season will surely hand them a place in the final top 10 places.
Lautaro Martinez did not play a big role in Argentina’s World Cup triumph but delivered in Inter Milan’s run to the Istanbul final and winning a domestic double.
His international teammate, Julian Alvarez, having won the treble with Man City plus the 2022 World Cup, will also feature among the top-ranked players.
Robert Lewandowski suffered an unfamiliar early exit from the Champions League this term but still won another Golden Boot award, this time in a different league.
Reigning holder, Karim Benzema failed to inspire another European success for Real Madrid, but his 31 goals before joining Al-Ittihad will put him in good standing.
The list of the nominees for this year’s Ballon d’Or awards will be announced on September 6, with the winners being announced at a gala in Paris on October 30.
Biggest Ballon d’Or robberies in history
It was also reported on the decision to hold the 2022 World Cup in the ‘weird’ month of December brought about unprecedented debate ahead of the 2023 Ballon d’Or race.
Despite receiving a more financially rewarding offer from Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, the former Barcelona player has chosen to reject it.
The Inter Miami deal includes partnerships with prominent brands such as Adidas and Apple.
At the age of 35, Messi, a seven-time recipient of the world’s best player award, is anticipated to win the prestigious accolade again later this year, following his success in the World Cup.
This is the first time Barcelona icon Messi has played outside Europe.
He wanted to remain in Europe for another season but, after no satisfactory offers were received, he had the straight choice between Inter Miami or Al-Hilal.
He was heavily tipped to be favouring a move to Saudi Arabia, where he would have joined Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema in the league in a deal that could not be matched financially.
But Messi was ultimately tempted to Major League Soccer side Inter Miami for a variety of reasons including lifestyle, and a deal with big brands that extends beyond football.
He already owns a house in Miami, which he currently rents out.
He was keen on a return to Barcelona this summer but the Financial Fair Play limitations that will be in place for next season in La Liga made any ambitious plan to bring him back an impossibility.
Paris St-Germain won Ligue 1 in both his seasons at the club but went out in the Champions League last 16, which means his time in France was not seen as a huge success.
He netted 32 goals in 75 games for the club – and ended this season with 16 goals and 16 assists in Ligue 1.
Messi’s two-year contract comes to an end this summer and both parties agreed to go their separate ways, with the forward suspended for two weeks in May for an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia.
As a tribute to his 2022 World Cup victory in Qatar, another stunning mural of Lionel Messi appeared on the walls of a building directly across from a railway station in the capital city of Argentina.
In the painting, Messi is depicted wearing the Albiceleste’s dark purple away shirt, with the national flag flying behind him.
This is not the first time Messi has commandeered Buenos Aires’s walls.
Earlier this year, Goal and Boedo Artistic Group collaborated to construct a mural in the forward’s honour.
Moreover, an Argentine artist named Maxi Bagnasco had also offered his tribute to the player with a mural where Messi is seen holding the trophy aloft, dressed in a Bisht, while Emiliano Martinez is behind him with his arms raised in joy.
Messi’s Club future undecided
Since announcing his departure from Paris Saint-Germain, Messi has been linked to many clubs in Europe, America and to the Middle East.
According to reports from L’Équipe, the last 48 hours have seen Jorge Messi meet with both Barcelona as well as a Saudi delegation, and talks have recently taken place with Inter Miami as well – for the time being, there is no clear indication as to which continent the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner will be playing in next season.
Although the Argentine ostensibly favours a return to Catalonia, the La Liga side’s recent financial difficulties have made a transfer unviable – however, Barcelona have also seen their economic viability plan approved by the league authorities.
In any case, they will need to reduce their wage bill to secure Messi’s return.
In order to convince the Argentine of the feasibility of the move, one option could be for the names of the players who are not in Xavi’s plans for next season to be circulated in the media, in order to encourage them to find a new club.
It remains to be seen, though, whether the Catalans’ efforts will be enough to turn their all-time top scorer away from lucrative offers from the USA and Saudi Arabia.
Aguero’s son shows Messi support
Earlier Sports Brief reported that Sergio Aguero’s son, Benjamin, took shots at Paris Saint-Germain via social media soon after Lionel Messi’s exit from the club was announced.
Benjamin Aguero stated that his godfather was too big for the club, and the comment has since been picked up by some fans.
Messi speaks on GOAT debate
Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Messi discussing the unending GOAT debate between himself and his age-old adversary, Ronaldo.
The 35-year-old, who recently picked up his second Laureus Sportsman of the Year Award in Paris, finally weighed in on the debate.
Messi told CNN that simply being considered among the greatest names football had ever seen was an achievement on its own to him.
This is not a list of every Premier League side’s five biggest signings ever, but a collection of their five most recent transfer record buys.
And those things are different. So you can delete that comment now and get over yourself.
Arsenal, Burnley and Luton may all welcome new club-record signings soon. No current top-flight side made their most expensive buy longer ago than Man Utd.
ARSENAL
Andrei Arshavin – £15m (Zenit St Petersburg, February 2009)
Mesut Ozil – £42.5m (Real Madrid, September 2013)
Alexandre Lacazette – £46.5m (Lyon, July 2017)
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – £55.5m (Borussia Dortmund, January 2018)
Nicolas Pepe – £72m (Lille, August 2019)
Four of those players subsequently left on a free transfer; Nicolas Pepe’s Arsenal contract expires next year. An expensive new midfielder will sadly have arrived by then.
ASTON VILLA
Stewart Downing – £12m (Middlesbrough, July 2009)
Darren Bent – £18m (Sunderland, January 2011)
Wesley Moraes – £22m (Club Brugge, June 2019)
Ollie Watkins – £28m, rising to £33m (Brentford, September 2020)
Emi Buendia – £30m, rising to £38m (Norwich, June 2021)
How bizarre to think that Unai Emery made one Premier League club’s most recent record signing and it wasn’t Aston Villa. For a couple of reasons, that will change this summer.
BOURNEMOUTH
Tyrone Mings – £8m (Ipswich, June 2015)
Benik Afobe – £10m (Wolves, January 2016)
Jordon Ibe – £15m (Liverpool, July 2016)
Nathan Ake – £20m (Chelsea, June 2017)
Jefferson Lerma – £25m (Levante, August 2018)
Bournemouth bid farewell to Jefferson Lerma this summer having almost unseated him as the club’s record signing a few times. Dango Ouattara, Illya Zabarnyi and Hamed Traore all joined for upwards of £20m since January, but don’t quite make the cut.
BRENTFORD
Bryan Mbeumo – £5.85m (Troyes, August 2019)
Ivan Toney – £5m, rising to £10m (Peterborough, September 2020)
Kristoffer Ajer – £13.5m (Celtic, July 2021)
Keane Lewis-Potter – £16m, rising to £20m (Hull, July 2022)
Kevin Schade – £22m (Freiburg, July 2023)
That is pleasingly chronological from Brentford, proof of a club with their ducks in order. One statement signing every summer for the past five years would be even better if the last three end up matching the brilliance of the previous two.
BRIGHTON
Jose Izquierdo – £13.5m (Club Brugge, August 2017)
Jurgen Locadia – £14m (PSV, January 2018)
Alireza Jahanbakhsh – £17m (AZ Alkmaar, July 2018)
Adam Webster – £20m (Bristol City, August 2019)
Joao Pedro – £30m (Watford, May 2023)
Brilliant as Brighton are, their transfer strength has been in identifying rough diamonds from faraway lands to polish and move on for considerable profit. When spending big they can stumble, which makes Joao Pedro’s impending arrival all the more intriguing.
BURNLEY
Steven Defour – £7.3m (Anderlecht, August 2016)
Jeff Hendrick – £10.5m (Derby, August 2016)
Robbie Brady – £13m (Norwich, January 2017)
Chris Wood – £15m (Leeds, August 2017)
Ben Gibson – £15m (Middlesbrough, August 2018)
Vincent Kompany will be desperate to break this particular stranglehold soon, even if just to override the predictability of Burnley having a no-nonsense centre-half and a burly centre-forward share their title of most expensive player ever.
CHELSEA
Alvaro Morata – £58m (Real Madrid, July 2017)
Kepa Arrizabalaga – £71m (Athletic Bilbao, August 2018)
Kai Havertz – £75.8m (Leverkusen, September 2020)
Romelu Lukaku – £97.5m (Inter Milan, August 2021)
Enzo Fernandez – £106.8m (Benfica, February 2023)
There is a genuine case to say Enzo Fernandez is legitimately the best of those Chelsea signings, which reflects well on no-one. But Todd Boehly has continued that proud tradition of general waste.
CRYSTAL PALACE
Dwight Gayle – £4.5m (Peterborough, July 2013)
James McArthur – £7m (Wigan, September 2014)
Yohan Cabaye – £10m (PSG, July 2015)
Andros Townsend – £13m (Newcastle, July 2016)
Christian Benteke – £27m (Liverpool, August 2016)
A ludicrous fact: not a single one of those signings was made by Roy Hodgson. Crystal Palace presumably still regret giving Alan Pardew quite so much cash to spend.
EVERTON
Yakubu Aiyegbini – £11.3m (Middlesbrough, August 2007)
Marouane Fellaini – £15m (Standard Liege, September 2008)
Romelu Lukaku – £28m (Chelsea, July 2014)
Jordan Pickford – £30m (Sunderland, June 2017)
Gylfi Sigurdsson – £45m (Swansea, August 2017)
Not sure what to say about that. It would probably make the best five-a-side team of any club on this list.
Konstantinos Mitroglou – £12m (Olympiakos, January 2014)
Jean Michael Seri – £25m (Nice, July 2018)
Fulham do like to use their regular Premier League promotions to open new transfer doors.
LIVERPOOL
Fernando Torres – £20.2m (Atletico Madrid, July 2007)
Luis Suarez – £22.7m (Ajax, January 2011)
Andy Carroll – £35m (Newcastle, January 2011)
Mo Salah – £36.9m (Roma, June 2017)
Virgil van Dijk – £75m (Southampton, January 2018)
It is probably safe to suggest that Darwin Nunez has not activated enough add-ons to become Liverpool’s record signing just yet. That initial £65m fee paid to Benfica can rise as high as £85m, but not with nine Premier League goals.
LUTON
Steve White – £175,000 (December 1979, Bristol Rovers)
Paul Walsh – £400,000 (July 1982, Charlton)
Lars Elstrup – £850,000 (August 1989, Odense)
Simon Sluga – £1.3m (July 2019, HNK Rijeka)
Carlton Morris – £1.7m (July 2022, Barnsley)
Luton Town have been promoted to the Premier League. This is the away end entrance to their stadium. And it is oh so beautiful.
MANCHESTER CITY
Aymeric Laporte – £57.2m (Athletic Bilbao, January 2018)
Riyad Mahrez – £60m (Leicester, July 2018)
Rodri – £62.8m (Atletico Madrid, July 2019)
Ruben Dias – £64.3m (Benfica, September 2020)
Jack Grealish – £100m (Aston Villa, August 2021)
That is an unerringly brilliant record, whether the signings were instantly brilliant or they needed a year of traditional transitional year of Pep seasoning first.
MANCHESTER UNITED
Rio Ferdinand – £29.3m (Leeds, July 2002)
Dimitar Berbatov – £30.8m (Tottenham, September 2008)
Juan Mata – £37.1m (Chelsea, January 2014)
Angel di Maria – £59.7m (Real Madrid, August 2014)
Paul Pogba – £89.3m (Juventus, August 2016)
Fair play to Manchester United for accepting that their last two club-record signings were so catastrophic it would be foolish to try again. They have the longest-standing current Premier League transfer record.
NEWCASTLE
Alan Shearer – £15m (Blackburn, July 1996)
Michael Owen – £16m (Real Madrid, August 2005)
Miguel Almiron – £20m (Atlanta United, January 2019)
Joelinton – £40m (Hoffenheim, July 2019)
Alexander Isak – £58m, rising to £63m (August 2022)
The bad news: Faustino Asprilla (£6.7m, Parma, February 1996) has finally been dislodged from this list. The good news: Eddie Howe can either make very good signings, or make very bad signings look very good.
NOTTINGHAM FOREST
Britt Assombalonga – £5.5m (Peterborough, August 2014)
Joao Carvalho – £13.2m (Benfica, June 2018)
Taiwo Awoniyi – £17.2m (Union Berlin, June 2022)
Emmanuel Dennis – £20m (Watford, August 2022)
Morgan Gibbs-White – £25m, rising to £42.5m (August 2022)
A simply ludicrous first summer in decades as a promoted Premier League club saw Nottingham Forest break their transfer record three separate times, pushing Pierre van Hooijdonk (£4.5m, Celtic, March 1997), Kevin Campbell (£3m, Arsenal, July 1995) and Teddy Sheringham (£2m, Millwall, July 1991) out.
SHEFFIELD UNITED
Luke Freeman – £5m (QPR, July 2019)
Callum Robinson – £7m (Preston, July 2019)
Lys Mousset – £10m (Bournemouth, July 2019)
Oli McBurnie – £20m (Swansea City, August 2019)
Sander Berge – £22m (Genk, January 2020)
There is a chance that Rhian Brewster could trigger every clause Liverpool inserted into the deal which saw him leave in October 2020 – although that would presumably involve scoring a few actual goals and probably breaking into the England squad.
TOTTENHAM
Roberto Soldado – £26m (Valencia, August 2013)
Erik Lamela – £29m (Roma, August 2013)
Moussa Sissoko – £30m (Newcastle, September 2016)
Davinson Sanchez – £42m (Ajax, August 2017)
Tanguy Ndombele – £53.7m (Lyon, July 2019)
Again, Richarlison (£50m rising to £60m) is theoretically capable of usurping someone who will unfathomably become his teammate in pre-season, but Ange Postecoglou must coax some undisallowed goals out of the Brazilian first.
WEST HAM
Andre Ayew – £20.7m (Swansea, August 2016)
Marko Arnautovic – £25m (Stoke, August 2017)
Felipe Anderson – £36m (Lazio, July 2018)
Sebastien Haller – £45m (Eintracht Frankfurt, July 2019)
Lucas Paqueta – £51m (Lyon, August 2022)
One or both of Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano probably belong here somewhere, but we’ve no sodding idea of their actual fees.
WOLVES
Rui Patricio – £16m (Sporting, June 2018)
Adama Traore – £18m (Middlesbrough, August 2018)
Raul Jimenez – £30m (Benfica, June 2019)
Fabio Silva – £35.6m (Porto, September 2020)
Matheus Nunes – £38m, rising to £42.2m (Sporting, August 2022)
The statistics company based their metrics on estimated transfer value in world football when churning out the list, which features the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Haaland among a raft of promising young talents.
Sports Brief takes a look at the top 10 players with the highest transfer market values:
10. Kylian Mbappe (Paris Saint-Germain)
$174 million
Touted as one of the heirs apparent to the Ronaldo-Messi GOAT throne, Kylian Mbappe continues to etch his name in the sands of time, even at the tender age of 24.
Currently ranked 10th on the most valuable footballer list by CIES Football Observatory, Mbappe finished the just-ended season as the top scorer in the French Ligue 1 for a fifth consecutive time.
9. Phil Foden (Manchester City)
$178 million
Despite appearing sporadically in Manchester City’s starting line-up since the season resumed after the 2022 World Cup, Foden’s value has not been affected drastically.
Phil Foden
Glorified as a ‘diamond’ by Man City manager Pep Guardiola, the Englishman stands the chance of winning the treble with the Cityzens.
8. Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich)
$182 million
Musiala’s value as a burgeoning talent continues to appreciate as he climbs his way to superstardom. He possesses excellent technical skills, pace, and an eye for goal.
His stunning last-gasp strike helped Bayern win an unprecedented 11th Bundesliga on the bounce.
7. Gavi (FC Barcelona)
$186 million
Gavi has established himself as one of Spain’s brilliant football stars. To underline his immense potential, the teen midfielder scooped home the FIFA Golden Boy and Kopa Trophy accolades in 2022.
The 18-year-old exhibits striking resemblances in both name and playing style to Xavi. Despite his youth, Gavi has already shattered numerous records, solidifying his place as the fourth-youngest player to grace the field for Barcelona and the third-youngest goal scorer in the history of the club, per Foottheball.
6. Pedri (FC Barcelona)
$190 million
Pedri possesses a blend of exceptional attributes that set him apart on the field. He is renowned for his speed, intelligence, creativity, and unwavering work ethic.
His technical prowess, impeccable ball control, precise passing, heightened awareness, and visionary abilities contribute to his outstanding performances.
Furthermore, Pedri impresses with his remarkable dribbling skills, remarkable stamina, composed demeanour in high-pressure situations, and his versatility in utilizing both feet effectively.
5. Rodrygo (Real Madrid)
$197 million
Dubbed the “new Neymar” by the Brazilian media when he was just 12 years old, with the added accomplishment of becoming the youngest athlete ever to secure a sponsorship deal with Nike a year prior, one might have expected the pressure and hype to overshadow Rodrygo’s exceptional footballingabilities.
But the Real Madrid forward has not only lived up to the expectations, he has also earned the prestigious title of ‘Mr. Clutch’.
4. Jude Bellingham (Borussia Dortmund)
$203 million
Currently one of the hottest prospects in the transfer market, Jude Bellingham is courting interest from a number of Europe’s heavyweights, with Real Madrid heavily linked to the Dortmund midfielder.
Despite missing out on winning the Bundesliga, the 19-year-old midfielder has still emerged as the best player in Germany’s top flight.
3. Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
$209 million
Arsenal put up a strong fight against Manchester City in the Premier League, narrowly missing out but still achieving a commendable season overall.
Among their standout players, Bukayo Saka shone, notching double figures in both goals and assists, tallying 14 and 11 respectively. The talented English youngster secured the third position for the most successful dribbles (63), according to WhoScored.
2. Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)
$210 million
Undoubtedly Real Madrid’s best player this season, Vinicius churned out superlative performances week-in and week-out with little fuss, despite suffering persistent racial attacks.
Explaining Vinicius’ form to SiriusXM as quoted by All Football, Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti said: “I think Vinicius is a really talented player. He arrived here in Madrid when he was really, really young and of course, it took time for him to reach the top. Because now, in football, talent isn’t enough to reach the top.
“You have to improve your tactical knowledge, your physical condition. I think Vinicius has done really well this season because of this reason. He was able to show his talent because of a base of tactical knowledge and a better physical condition.”
1. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
$262 million
Erling Haaland’s exceptional debut season with Manchester City has placed him at the pinnacle of the football world, boasting the highest estimated transfer value and securing the top spot on the podium. His outstanding performance aligns perfectly with his status as the ideal choice for leading the pack.
Throughout the season, opposing defences have been grappling with the challenge of halting Erling Haaland’s goal-scoring prowess for Manchester City. However, their efforts have ultimately amounted to mere fuss and commotion as Haaland continues to excel unabated, boasting a jaw-dropping stat of 52 goals from 52 matches, per Transfermarkt.
After receiving approval from Brighton to complete the last steps of his move to Anfield, Alexis Mac Allisterwill have a medical at Liverpool.
The Argentina international was identified as a target for Jürgen Klopp to strengthen his midfield in a rebuild for next season, as reported by Telegraph Sport last month, and a move was made quickly to close a deal.
Before agreeing to a long-term contract with Merseyside, the 24-year-old is scheduled to undergo his medical exams this week.
The price for Mac Allister has not been made public by either club, but it is anticipated to be in the region of £40 million for a player who has spent the last four years at the Amex Stadium.
Manchester United were also looking at the World Cup winner as they look to strengthen the midfield areafor Erik ten Hag, but Liverpool made the first moves for Mac Allister after dropping out of the race to sign Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund.
Mac Allister had only signed a new deal at Brighton in October that ran until 2025 with the option of another year.
The new terms led to clubs looking at whether there was a buyout clause, with the player’s reputation only enhanced after playing a key role in his country’s triumph in Qatar during the winter.
Klopp has been assessing which midfielders to pursue for the summer window, with Naby Keita, James Milner and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain all out of contract and leaving the club. Milner has been in talks with Brighton and is set to move in the opposite direction to Mac Allister.
Liverpool conceded defeat in the race for Bellingham, with Klopp likening the deal to “children wanting a Ferrari for Christmas”. Real Madrid are in advanced talks to sign the 19-year-old England international.
Mac Allister will land Brighton a huge profit after they bought him from Argentinos Juniors for around £12 million in 2019, with this summer seeing central midfielders in demand. Arsenal are looking at that area and have West Ham’s Declan Rice as their No 1 priority.
Klopp has been assessing which midfielders to pursue for the summer window, with Naby Keita, James Milner and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain all out of contract and leaving the club. Milner has been in talks with Brighton and is set to move in the opposite direction to Mac Allister.
Liverpool conceded defeat in the race for Bellingham, with Klopp likening the deal to “children wanting a Ferrari for Christmas”. Real Madrid are in advanced talks to sign the 19-year-old England international.
Mac Allister will land Brighton a huge profit after they bought him from Argentinos Juniors for around £12 million in 2019, with this summer seeing central midfielders in demand. Arsenal are looking at that area and have West Ham’s Declan Rice as their No 1 priority.
Moeen Ali has made the decision to come out of retirement from Test cricket and answer England’s call for the Ashes series against Australia.
With first-choice spinner Jack Leach sidelined due to a stress fracture, England’s plans were disrupted.
However, Moeen has agreed to return to red-ball cricket after nearly two years to fill the gap.
Having been invited to join the squad earlier in the week, the 35-year-old took some time to consider his options before ultimately accepting the offer to reunite with the team.
While England had alternative choices, such as 18-year-old Rehan Ahmed, who became the youngest Test cricketer for England in December, and Surrey’s Will Jacks, none possessed the experience and credentials of Moeen.
Moeen Ali
He has 64 Test caps, 195 wickets and the small matter of five Test centuries.
With Jonny Bairstow slotting back into the side at No7 following his return from a broken leg, Moeen is likely to bat at eight and give the home side a seriously dangerous lower order.
The Ashes begins at Moeen’s home ground of Edgbaston on July 16, with the all-rounder due to turn 36 on day three.
Rob Key, England’s managing director of men’s cricket, was involved in discussions alongside head coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes.
He said: “We reached out to Mo early this week about returning to Test cricket. Having had a couple of days to reflect, Mo is excited to join the squad and play Test cricket again.
“His vast experience, along with his all-round ability, will benefit our Ashes campaign. We wish Mo and the rest of the squad well for the Ashes campaign.”
McCullum previously tried to tempt Moeen back into the fray for the historic tour of Pakistan but, after initially declaring himself open to the idea, he ultimately decided to stick to limited-overs cricket.
Speaking at the time, Moeen said: “I want to enjoy my cricket and it wouldn’t be fair to reverse my decision and then struggle to give it my all.
“It’s time to close the door on that side of my career. To play 64 Tests for England has been a privilege and a dream fulfilled.”
He has now been persuaded to take the field again, warming to the idea of turning out for Stokes and McCullum.
Australia have proved thorny opponents for Moeen in the past, with his career bowling average climbing from 36.66 to 64.65 in Ashes cricket, but he is ready to embrace unfinished business against England’s biggest rivals.
He will need to get back to grips with the red Dukes ball after dedicating himself to the white-ball formats since September 2021 and will work alongside spin coach Jeetan Patel in the run-up to the series opener in Birmingham.
Thierry Henry has reportedlydeclined an offer to join Julian Nagelsmann’s coaching staff at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
The former Arsenal legend had engaged in discussions with the PSG management regarding a potential role at the French club during the upcoming summer.
Henry, who has coaching experience with the Belgium national team and has previously managed Monaco and Montreal Impact, has decided against joining PSG at this time.
It is believed having the 45-year-old join the PSG coaching team would have been an effort to appease star striker, Kylian Mbappe, with whom he has a good relationship.
Henry and Kylian’s childhood days
With Lionel Messi leaving upon the expiry of his contract at the end of the month and Neymar Junior also said to be on the move, keeping the French forward appears to be the Parisians’ main goal.
However, the idea of bringing in Henry to appease Mbappe appears to have fallen at the first hurdle, with Foot Mercato reporting the Gunners and Les Bleus legend is not keen on the role.
The French legend reportedly wants to stay in England, where his family currently lives, and is targeting a managerial role rather than a position as an assistant coach.
Thierry Henry and Kylian Mbappe
Although Henry is apparently reluctant to join PSG, the club are understood to be pushing ahead with the appointment ofNagelsmann as their next manager, per Le Parisien.
PSG shows Galtier the door
Christophe Galtier was only in charge for one season, but failure in the UEFA Champions League has once again cost a manager his job.
He was sacked on Tuesday just days after celebrating winning the Ligue 1 title, securing the French top flight prize for the ninth time in 11 seasons.
However, being knocked out of the UCL in the Round of 16 by Bayern Munich proved costly.
Nagelsmann was linked with the Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur jobs before the London clubs opted for Mauricio Pochettino and Ange Postecoglou respectively.
The 35-year-old German is known for an extremely intense and demanding coaching style, which has resulted in his departures from both Bayern and RB Leipzig.
PSG future in the balance
Although Messi is leaving and Neymar could yet follow suit, Mbappe looks set to stay put this summer.
The French striker came close to joining Real Madrid last summer before backtracking and signing a bumper new deal, and he will be the undisputed star at the club next season – whoever the manager is.
Henry reveals PSG’s problem
Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Henry identifying the problem with PSG as the French giants rounded off a topsy-turvy campaign including elimination from the UCL.
The Parisians also suffered a shock exit from the Coupe de France and laboured in their league title defence, although they ultimately did lift the top flight prize.
Speaking on CBS Sports in March, after PSG exited the UCL, Henry stated there was a rift between the club and its supporters over what the club hoped to achieve.
Even though David Moyes is just one victory away from becominga West Ham legend, he will not hold himself against the club’s two all-time great managers.
After John Lyall and Ron Greenwood, Moyes will be the only manager to lead the east London side to a major trophy if the Hammers defeat Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League final on Wednesday night.
West Ham’s only prior European trophy, the Cup Winners’ Cup, was won under the leadership of Greenwood, who later managed England. Their final trophy, the FA Cup, was won under Lyall in 1980.
Yet Moyes insisted: “I don’t think of myself as any different to anyone else in this room.
“I’m really fortunate and privileged and thankful to be given an opportunity to be a football manager and to have the opportunity to go this far in my career and be on a stage like this.
“I think it’s really special. I don’t ever really think of myself as being a legend or any words like that.
“I’d just like to be known as a football manager and one who’s serious about his job and tries to do the best he possibly can, week-in week-out, try to prepare my teams to be competitive.
“I’d like to be known as much for that as much as I would the word ‘legend’, really.”
The final will hold special memories for West Ham’s Czech duo Vladimir Coufal and Tomas Soucek, who both played for Slavia Prague at the Eden Arena.
Midfielder Soucek said: “When I realised one year ago that the final was in Prague and we were in this competition, I was like, ‘come on guys, we have to go there’.
“And now we are here in the Eden Arena in Prague, I can connect with the two teams I love.”
Manchester City’s Champions League final preparations for UCL final have stepped up a notch as they aim to become just the second English team to win the coveted treble.
On June 10, Pep Guardiola’s team will take on surprise finalists Inter Milan in Istanbul’s Ataturk Stadium in an effort to win their first championship following years of significant investment and close calls.
The players undoubtedly still need time to recover from their Saturday night celebrations after defeating Manchester United in the FA Cup final. Ahead of the Turkey battle, they have since started full-time training again.
A video of Riyad Mahrez embarrassing Erling Haaland during a training session on June 6 has surfaced online, leaving fans in stitches.
Mahrez sits Haaland with moves
For starters, Mahrez’s close ball control and dribbling skills are world-class and it should come as no surprise if he gets one past an opponent.
However, considering the reputation Haaland has built this season, no one thought he too could also fall for the Algerian’s quick feet.
In what appears to be a rondo session, the Norwegian closed down Mahrez in a bid to win the ball, but the former Leicester City man turned him inside out and left him sitting.
Haaland sees the funny side as he lets out a wry smile. His close friend at the club, Jack Grealish is seen laughing as the Man City goal machine picks himself up.
Guardiola will be hoping his star can rediscover his form in front of goal against Simone Inzaghi’s side.
Despite having had a 36-goal season, the 22-year-old has not scored in four games now, which by his standards, is something of a dry spell.
Mahrez, meanwhile, is likely to start on the bench despite successfully putting the club’s top scorer on the floor, with Guardiola expected to stick with his usual formation of Bernardo Silva and Grealish attacking from wide.
Bastoni plans to stop Haaland
Sports Brief also reported on Inter Milan defender, Alessandro Bastoni disclosing he has been studying footage of Real Madrid star, Antonio Rudiger,as he attempts to stop Erling Haaland.
Manchester City are the clear favourite going into the final of the UEFA Champions League on Saturday at Istanbul’s Ataturk Olympic Stadium.
Pep Guardiola’s side, which has won the Premier League and FA Cup titles, has already defeated Real Madrid and Bayern Munich en route to the final and is aiming for an unprecedented treble.
In a move that has brought the golfing community together, the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and LIV Golf have put aside their differences and reached a merger agreement on Tuesday.
The resolution of this longstanding dispute is expected to have implications for the Official World Golf Rankings, as the contentious battle between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf has finally come to a close.
As the discussions around ranking points unfold, Sports Brief takes a closer look at the golfers who have enjoyed the longest reigns as the world number one.
1. Tiger Woods
When it comes to being the world’s No. 1 golfer, Tiger Woods is undoubtedly the GOAT. He spent a whopping 683 weeks atop the world golf rankings, with his reign starting on June 15, 1997, and ending on May 17, 2014, per Golfweek.
The American spent a record 281 straight weeks at the summit, holding the world no. 1 tag from June 12, 2005, to October 30, 2010.
Tiger Woods
To put Woods’ feat in perspective, it equates to the 15-time major champion spending more than 13 years as the best golfer in the world.
2. Greg Norman
Norman spent the most weeks atop the world golf rankings in the 1980s and 1990s. He was world No. 1 for 331 weeks during those decades.
To put the Shark’s feat in perspective, it equates to the two-time major champion spending over eight years as the world’s best golfer.
Norman family estates
Norman’s reign as world No. 1 ended in 1997 when Woods knocked him off his perch.
3. Dustin Johnson
Johnson first became world number one in February 2017 and has so far spent 135 weeks at the top of the rankings. His last stint as world No. 1 came in July 2021.
5. Nick Faldo
Sir Nick Faldo first became the world’s best golfer in September 1990 and spent 97 weeks at the summit between then and February 1994.
The six-time major champion is one of only three golfers to have held the world No. 1 ranking for an entire calendar year, with Faldo accomplishing that feat in 1993.
6. Seve Ballesteros
The Spanish maestro was world number one for 61 weeks. Ballesteros first became world number one on April 27, 1986. He had five separate stints as the world’s best golfer, with his last day as No. 1 coming on August 19, 1989.
7. Luke Donald
Donald first became the world’s best golfer on May 29, 2011, and he spent 56 weeks at the top of the rankings.
The Englishman’s most extended spell at the summit lasted 40 weeks. He last became world number one on August 11, 2012.
8. Jon Rahm
Rahm first became world number one in July 2020 and has so far spent a total of 52 weeks at the top of the rankings. The Spaniard’s longest spell at the summit began in July 2021 and ended 36 weeks later on March 26, 2022.
9. Jason Day
Day can start thinking of becoming world number one again after ending his five-year PGA Tour title drought at the 2023 Byron Nelson Classic.
The Australian first became world number one in September 2015 and has so far spent 51 weeks at the top of the golf rankings. Day’s last stint as world No. 1 came in February 2017.
10. Ian Woosnam
Woosnam first became the world’s best golfer in April 1991 and spent 50 weeks at the summit between then and March 1992.
He started his reign as the world’s best golfer with a bang, winning the Masters Tournament in 1991.
After signing a three-year contract with Al-Ittihad, Karim Benzema has made clear his true motivations.
The current Saudi champions officially announced the signing of Benzema, who will conclude his 14-year affiliation with Real Madrid at the conclusion of the 2022–23 campaign.
Benzema has made the same decision to relocate to the Middle East as his former Real Madrid teammate and friend, Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Portuguese phenomenon joined Al-Nassr at the start of the year.
According to Sky Sports, the Frenchman’s decision to move to the Saudi Pro League, which took Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti by surprise, adds to the growing number of A-list stars to grace the oil-rich nation.
Benzema to Al Ittihad!
During his initial press conference with the club, Benzema openly acknowledged the competitiveness of the Saudi League, emphasising the abundance of talented players within its ranks.
“Al-Ittihad is a new challenge for me. It’s a good league, and there are many good players,” Benzema said, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano.
The 35-year-old, who isReal Madrid’s second-highest goal-scorer of all-time, cited Ronaldo as one of his motivations, with his quest to win more laurels for his stacked trophy cabinet being another reason to join the Tigers.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is already here, he is a friend who shows that Saudi Arabia is starting to get ahead and I am here to win as I did in Europe.”
Benzema signs for Al-Ittihad
Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Real Madrid’s Ballon d’Or winner, Benzema will join Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia after signing a three-year deal with Al-Ittihad, the Jeddah-based club confirmed on Tuesday.
The Frenchman will join his former Real Madrid teammate in the Gulf kingdom after the five-time world player of the Year moved to Al-Nassr from Manchester United following last year’s FIFA World Cup.
The Benzema announcement comes days after Real Madrid revealed the 35-year-old was leaving the club after 14 seasons, a day afterAncelotti had insisted his future in Spain’s capital was ‘no doubt’.
Alessandro Bastoni, the Inter Milan defender, has revealed that he has been analyzing video footage of Antonio Rudiger, the Real Madrid star, in his preparations to counter Erling Haaland in the upcoming Champions League Final.
The final, set to take place on Saturday at Istanbul’s Ataturk Olympic Stadium, sees Manchester City emerge as the clear favorites.
Led by manager Pep Guardiola, Manchester City has clinched both the Premier League and FA Cup titles this season.
They have already overcome formidable opponents such as Real Madrid and Bayern Munich on their path to the final, as they strive to achieve an unprecedented treble.
However, their Italian rivals will be looking to take advantage of their hectic schedule.
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 29: Alessandro Bastoni of FC Internazionale in action during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and UC Sampdoria at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on October 29, 2022 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Haaland, who has 52 goals in as many games this season, acknowledged in a recent interview that Manchester City had purchased him to win the biggest title in European club football.
City are one step away from doing so but Inter intend to follow the example of Rudiger, who kept Haaland quiet when Madrid drew 1-1 with City in the first leg of the semi-final.
Rudiger did not play in the return game, which City won 4-0.
And ahead of the gigantic clash, Bastoni has made some intriguing remarks regarding City in a press conference.
“Haaland says City bought him to win the Champions League and that says everything,” said Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni via Daily Mail. But it’s Manchester City v Inter, not Haaland v Inter.
‘I have seen a video of Rudiger in the semi-final. He managed tocontain Haaland very well so maybe that’s an example we can use. We will try to copy what he did.
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After a notable eight-year stint with Leicester City in the English Premier League,Ghanaian defender Daniel Amartey has bid farewell to the club.
Amartey, who initially joined the Foxes in 2016 from FC Copenhagen in Denmark, experienced great success during his tenure, including winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and Community Shield.
Throughout his time at the King Power Stadium, the 28-year-old center-back made over 150 appearances for the team.
Unfortunately, Leicester City faced relegation to the English Championship at the conclusion of the season.
Amartey’s departure has been officially confirmed by the club, making him one of seven players who will be leaving the team.
“Youri Tielemans, Çağlar Söyüncü, Daniel Amartey, Nampalys Mendy, Ryan Bertrand, Ayoze Pérez, and Tetê will all bring their spells at King Power Stadium to an end,” a statement on the club’s official website read.
Leicester City also stated it remained in discussion with captain, Jonny Evans regarding his future, with his contract due to expire later this month.
“…An option has been exercised to extend the contract of midfielder, Hamza Choudhury to June 2024,” the statement added.
Amartey has been linked with a move to Turkey’s Super Lig, with Besiktas reportedly interested in the Ghanaian international, as reported by SportsWorldGhana.
Amartey to join AC Milan?
Sports Brief also reported that Ghanaian defender, Amartey could join AC Milan in the summer transfer window, amid claims he had agreed to a deal with the Serie A club.
The 28-year-old’s contract with former Premier League champions, Leicester City ends this month and the centre-back is set for a move away from the King Power Stadium.
Amartey remains one of two members of the victorious Foxes team that shockingly won the English top flight title in 2016, alongside Jamie Vardy.
Amartey gifts ex-coach with car
Black Stars defender, Amartey returned a favour to a man who helped him ten years ago after gifting him a new car.
Sports Brief reported the Leicester City defender presented the car through ex-Ghanaian footballer, Awudu Issaka.
According to sports journalist, Saddick Adams, Amartey remembered the man for a gesture during his youth days.
Shortly before the conclusion of the season, Yacine Adli organized a special gathering for his AC Milan teammates, fostering a rare bonding opportunity for the Rossoneri squad and their families.
The event took place at the French player’s residence, where the team members and their loved ones congregated.
This lunch gathering is believed to have occurred approximately two weeks prior to AC Milan’s final matches against Juventus and Hellas Verona.
Notably, prominent stars such as Olivier Giroud, Rafael Leao, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic were seen in attendance, adding to the festive atmosphere with vibrant decorations, balloons, and engaging activities like darts.
Adli has rarely played under Stefan Pioli this season. His last game was a 20-minute cameo in their 2-0 loss to Spezia on May 13.
Before that, he had played on March 4 in their 2-1 loss to Fiorentina. The 22-year-old was signed from French club, Bordeaux in 2021.
AC Milan have had a topsy-turvy season. They relinquished their Serie A title to Napoli but managed to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League before their city rivals, Inter Milan eliminated them.
A late upturn in form saw them qualify for the Champions League next season after finishing fourth in the league.
Their last game of the season was a 3-1 victory against Verona in which veteran striker, Ibrahimovic was given a wonderful and surprisingly teary send-off.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic retires from football
Sports Brief reported that emotions ran high after Ibrahimovic unexpectedly announced his retirement from professional football after AC Milan’s final game of the season.
His contract is up this summer, and both parties had reportedly decided to mutually call it quits, but no one knew what the Swede’s next steps would be until he revealed them.
Ibrahimovic was not listed in AC Milan’s matchday squad as he had been battling a knee injury that kept him out of action since April, but was in the crowd at the San Siro Stadium.
In their last La Liga match of the 2022/23 season, Real Madrid concluded with a 1-1 draw against Athletic Club at home after which they bid farewell to their ‘goal king’ Karim Benzema, Eden Hazard, Marco Asensio and Mario Diaz.
The outgoing Karim Benzema, amidst significant attention, scored his final goal for the club in this match.
Regrettably, Eden Hazard’s departure from the club went relatively unnoticed amidst the focus on Benzema’s farewell.
Although Marco Asensio was substituted on and off during the game to allow the home fans an opportunity to bid farewell to the Spanish international, Hazard and Mariano Diaz remained on the bench.
Both players are joining Benzema and Asensio in leaving on free transfers, in what promises to be a summer of changes in Madrid, and Ancelotti confirmed the duo did not ask to come on.
“I can only make five changes. They did not ask to come on, but I want to say they have been serious and professional”, as per reports from Marca.
“They have behaved at the maximum level until the last day.”
Eden Hazard
Hazard’s future remains very uncertain, with Benzema tipped to make a move to Saudi Arabia in the coming days, and Asensio attracting attention from the Premier League.
Ancelotti plans for Hazard replacement
Carlo Ancelotti has outlined his plans to find replacements for outgoing forwards, Karim Benzema and Hazard.
The Spanish giants according to reports from SkySports want Tottenham star, Harry Kane, amongst other signings to replace their departing forwards at Real Madrid.
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti wants them to move for Kane while they are also eyeing a move for Chelsea striker Kai Havertz to replace Benzema.
Kane, who will turn 30 next month, has just a year left on his contract at Tottenham.
Spurs chairman Daniel Levy does not want to sell and is reported will demand in excess of £100m to scare off potential interest.
Levy has been adamant that he will not sell to a Premier League rival and that looks set to thwart Manchester United’s interest this summer.
Real Madrid terminates Hazard’s contract
Earlier Sports Brief reported that Real Madrid have terminated Hazard’s contract following a nightmare spell at the club.
Hazard was rated as one of the best wingers in the world at some point and was snapped up by Real Madrid in 2019 for a then-British transfer record of £142m from Chelsea.
Despite having a five-year initial contract with Los Blancos that runs through 2024, the former Chelsea playmaker has struggled with injuries and poor form.
Mellis, once hailed as a rising star in football, enjoyed the opportunity to showcase his talent on the grand stage of the Champions League during his time with Chelsea.
Unfortunately, recent reports suggest that Mellis is currently facing homelessness, highlighting the drastic change in his circumstances.
Back in his glory days, Mellis was earning an impressive weekly salary of £8,000 as he relentlessly pursued his aspirations of attaining global recognition in the world of football.
These unforeseen circumstances serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and how even those who seemed destined for success can encounter significant setbacks.
However, the publication reports that the once-highly rated football star is now homeless, sofa surfing as he ponders about a career that might have been.
It is understood that alcohol addiction took a toll on Mellis and completely ruined his promising football future.
Who is Jacob Mellis?
According to Goal, Mellis came through the Chelsea academy in the late 2000s and was part of the side that reached the2008 FA Youth Cup final.
Jacob Mellis
Despite his promising start to life as a budding player, he struggled to break through at Chelsea, having loan spells at Barnsley and Southampton, where he continued his development.
He would later seal a permanent move to Barnsley in 2012 before he had spells at Blackpool, Bury, Mansfield and others.
However, he has not played in the Football League since 2021, with his career brought to an abrupt end in 2022 while at Southend after a misdiagnosed knee injury.
Mellis burst onto the scene in 2011 when he came on as a substitute for Chelsea in Champions League wins over MSK Zilina.
Australia coach Graham Arnold expressed his desire for “revenge” against Lionel Messi’s Argentina in an upcoming friendly match in Beijing.
The Australian team was defeated by Argentina in the last 16 of the World Cup in Qatar, with Messi delivering an impressive goal en route to Argentina’s eventual triumph.
Despite the match being a friendly, Arnold emphasized that his team will approach it seriously and aim to make a strong impact against their opponents.
“I am getting goosebumps now that we can play the world champions so soon after the World Cup and get revenge,” Arnold said, as he named a young squad missing numerous established players through injury, including Celtic’s Aaron Mooy.
“Conditions will be humid and warm, but younger players have that energy and will run all day and fight.”
He added: “It is a fantastic opportunity for all of us to go out there and give it everything we’ve got — the boys will have energy galore and I can’t wait.”
Graham Arnold
Among those called up were 19-year-old Parma defender Alessandro Circati, who has represented Italy at youth level.
Arnold, who surpassed expectations in guiding Australia to the knockout rounds in Qatar, said that he already has one eye on qualification for the2026 World Cup.
“I don’t feel there’s any better way to test them out than against the world champions,” he said of his youthful 23-man squad.
Manchester United is said to be the top candidate for Mount’s services, and he has been linked to a potential exit this summer.
The Blues midfielder is destined to quit his childhood club after failing to reach a new contract agreement, according to The Guardian, who claims that United have already started negotiations with Chelsea regarding a deal for Mount.
The publication claimed the Red Devils have already agreed on personal terms with the Englishman ahead of a possible Old Trafford switch.
Be that as it may, the Manchester club will have to contend with competition from Arsenal and Liverpool in their pursuit of the Chelsea academy graduate.
Chilwell sends message to Mount
Chilwell, who is understood to be close pals with Mount, has now urged the midfielder to reject a move to Manchester United and stay at Chelsea.
The former Leicester City ace made the plea when he was asked about his friend’s future while at the Spanish Grand Prix.
“It’s none of my business personally, but he is my best mate so I would love him to stay,” Chilwell told Sky Sports, via The Mirror.
“If he goes, everyone will be sad to see him go,” the left-back added.
Mount has just a year left on his Chelsea contract, with the Blues keen to cash in on him rather than lose him on a free transfer after next season.
Chelsea fans taunt Mount
Sports Brief also reported that Mason Mount was targeted by fans for his dip in form this season amid rumours he is leaving the club.
In a video uploaded on Tiktok by journalist Amelia Dimoldenberg, he was spotted dancing with fans taunting him via social media.
ThatGuyLeee uploaded the video on Twitter and captioned it as the midfielder’s ‘highlights of the season’, sparking many reactions.
This decision marked the end of a remarkable career for the Swedish football icon, which spanned over two decades.
“The first time we arrived in Milan, you gave me happiness, the second time, you gave me love. From my heart, I want to thank you fans,” the legendary striker announced per Goal.
Zlatan’s retirement came after a glittering career that had seen him ply his trade with top European clubs, including AC Milan, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Manchester United.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
During the period, the 41-year-old won several titles and shattered a number of records that he is bound to hold for some time.
Sports Brief takes a look at the top six records held by the former Sweeden international.
First player to score every minute
Zlatan, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, are the only two players to have scored in every single minute of a football match.
The Swedish talisman was the first player to reach the landmark before Ronaldo replicated it.
The Swede set the benchmark at 41 years and 166 days, shattering the previous record by Alessandro Costacurta at 41 years and 25 days.
Most assists in a UEFA competitions season
During the 2012–13 UEFA Champions League, Zlatan had the record for the most assists in a UEFA competition.
At the time, the forward bagged an impressive seven assists for Paris Saint-Germain.
Most Goals by a Swedish Player
Zlatan holds the record for the most goals by a Swedish player.
While Sweden has produced some top footballers in the past, Zlatan has emerged as the standout.
The striker scored 62 goals in 122 appearances for the national team.
Playing UCL for seven clubs
Zlatan is the only player to feature for seven different clubs in the Champions League.
The striker’s longevity and ability to play at the top level for long allowed him to play in the European competition for nearly every club he has played for.
He played for Ajax, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, and Manchester United.
King of scoring on debut
This is perhaps the most unique record that Zlatan holds.
The 41-year-old has been dubbed the king of debuts, having scored on his debut in Premier League, Serie A, La Liga, Ligue 1 and UCL.
Zlatan breaks down after retirement
Earlier, Sports Brief reported Zlatan Ibrahimovic could not fight his emotions after he unexpectedly announced his retirement from professional football after AC Milan’s final game of the season.
His contract is up this summer, and both parties had mutually decided to call it quits, but no one knew what the Swede’s next steps were until he made them.
Ibrahimovic was not listed in the matchday squad as he had been battling a knee injury that kept him out of action since April, but was in the stands at the San Siro.
In his debut season with Barcelona, Robert Lewandowski concluded the campaign by clinching La Liga’s Golden Boot award on Sunday.
Despite failing to score in a 2-1 defeat against Celta Vigo, the 34-year-old striker accumulated a total of 23 goals in 34 league appearances.
Lewandowski’s impressive goal tally placed him four goals ahead of Karim Benzema from Real Madrid, who managed 19 goals in 24 games due to a season riddled with injuries.
This achievement solidifies Lewandowski’s status as a prolific goalscorer and highlights his impact in his first season at Barcelona.
Lewa also finished seven goals clear of Espanyol’s Joselu Marto.
The Polish striker also won the Pichichi award without scoring a single penalty, becoming the first player to do so since Dani Guiza in the 2007-08 season, according to MisterChip.
It is also the sixth straight season that Lewandowski has finished as the top scorer in his domestic league, having topped the standings in the Bundesliga prior to his move to Barcelona.
He ended the season with 33 goals across all competitions, including five scores in the UEFA Champions League, two in the Copa del Rey, two in the Supercopa, and one in the Europa League.
Lewandowski beats Benzema to award
As reported by Marca, Benzema had won the prize in the previous season with 27 goals, ending a five-year period of dominance by Lionel Messi.
Benzema and Lewandowski
Lewandowski has now won 11 Golden Boot awards from his career. The former Borussia Dortmund and Bayern goal-machine ended seven of his 12 seasons in Germany as the leading scorer in the Bundesliga.
He also won theUEFA Champions League’s Golden Boot prize in 2019/20 when his 15 goals and six assists fired the Bavarians to European glory. His other two Golden Boots were won early on in his career in Poland.
The first arrived in the 2007/08 campaign after Lewa netted 21 times for Znicz Pruszkow in the Polish second division. Two seasons later, he topped the scoring charts in the first division with 18 goals for Lech Poznan.
La Liga’s final Pichichi rankings
1. Robert Lewadowski: 23 goals
2. Karim Benzema: 19 goals
3. Joselu Marto: 16 goals
4. Borja Iglesias: 15 goals
5. Antoine Griezmann: 15 goals
Lewandowski wants Messi at Barcelona
Previously, Sports Brief reported that Lewandoski expressed his desire for Messi to make a fairytale return to Barcelona this summer.
The Argentine departed Barcelona in 2021 due to the club’s ailing financial situation, joining Paris Saint-Germain on a two-year contract.
A seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, Messi has now been urged to make a return to the Camp Nou after departing the French capital.
In Napoli’s last Serie A match of the season against Sampdoria, Nigerian international Victor Osimhen shared a heartwarming moment by introducing his adorable daughter to the world.
The 24-year-old forward played a pivotal role in leading Napoli, fondly referred to as the Partenopei, to the Scudetto this season, emerging as the top scorer with an impressive tally of 26 goals.
Continuing his fine form, Osimhen found the back of the net once again in Napoli’s final game, converting a penalty in the 64th minute. Giovanni Simeone added another goal to secure a 2-0 victory, further highlighting Napoli’s historic season.
Victor Osimhen gestures during Napoli’s 1-1 draw against Udinese.
Amidst the on-field success, Osimhen’s introduction of his daughter showcased a touching moment that reflects the personal joys and fulfillment experienced by the talented footballer off the pitch.
But before the game, Osimhen took the opportunity to finally show off his beautiful daughter, Hailey, while thanking the Napoli fans for their remarkable support throughout their season.
He was pictured carrying his beautiful baby girl, who also wore a customised face mask like her father.
Fans react to Osimhen’s daughter
One said:
“I’m surprised so many people have no idea what a mixed child looks like in big 2023 lmao.”
Another added:
“I hope to see something more refreshing in the future!”
A fan advised:
“Bro you need to register your properties under your mother’s name! Cos you never know!”
“But I could never accept that someone could use abusive words towards my daughter or any of my family members.
I don’t want to suffer these attacks on my affections, that’s why I defend my family’s privacy from the attacks of those who hate and are capable of writing horrible things on social media. I keep my private life to myself because it is not available to anyone.”
Osimhen speaks on winning Scudetto
Sports Brief earlier reported on Osimhen commenting on winning Serie A with Napoli after a record-setting season with the new champions.
The Nigerian striker led the Naples outfit to their first Italian top flight title in more than three decades, netting 26 goals during the season.
Osimhen also ended the campaign as the top scorer in the league, becoming the first African to win the golden boot in the Serie A’s history.
Despite being one of the most renowned figures in football, Kylian Mbappe doesn’t hesitate to acknowledge the greatness of his contemporaries.
After Paris Saint-Germain’s 3-2 home loss to Clermont Foot on matchday 38, which coincided with their 11th Ligue 1 title win, the PSG players prepared to celebrate with their fans.
However, before joining the festivities, Mbappe took a moment to pay tribute to Lionel Messi, a player widely regarded as one of the finest of this generation.
Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi hug each other
This gesture highlights Mbappe’s respect and admiration for the Argentine superstar, recognizing his exceptional talent and contribution to the world of football.
— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) June 3, 2023
Messi confirms PSG departure
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi made the decision to leave Paris Saint-Germain, thanking the club, the city, and the supporters for the opportunity.
Inter Miami, Al Hilal, and ex-club Barcelona are three teams vying for his services, per Sport Bible.
It really is anyone’s guess where the tricky magician could go, but a large majority of the football world would love nothing more than to see him back at his boyhood club Barcelona.
As for Mbappe, it appears he will stay at PSG for another year as Real Madrid’s interest in the striker has waned, at least for this summer.
PSG lose on Messi’s farewell
Earlier, Sports Brief reported Lionel Messi’s final game for Paris Saint-Germain ended in defeat on Saturday, while Monaco missed out on European qualification and Auxerre were relegated on the last night of the Ligue 1 season.
Messi’s expected departure from the French giants after two seasons was officially confirmed by PSG in a statement shortly before Saturday’s match against Clermont.
Yet Messi, who ends his PSG career with 32 goals in 75 appearances, was jeered by some fans during the match, which the champions lost 3-2.
Following Roma’s 2-1 victory over relegation strugglers Spezia in their final game of the season, Jose Mourinho appeared to convey his intention to stay at the club through a gesture to the fans.
The renowned coach’s unexpected arrival at Roma in 2021 came with a three-year contract, and he quickly won over the Giallorossi supporters by securing the Europa Conference League title in his debut season.
In his second season, Mourinho guided the team to their second European final, the Europa League, although they suffered a controversial penalty shootout defeat of 4-1.
Jose Mourinho confronts Anthony Taylor during the Europa League final between Sevilla and AS Roma. Photo by Clive Rose.
Speculation surrounds Mourinho’s future at the club, as several top clubs have managerial vacancies, while Roma’s lack of significant investment in the squad, under the watchful eye of Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, adds further uncertainty. Nonetheless, Mourinho’s gesture hints at a potential continuation of his coaching journey with Roma.
Mourinho’s telling reaction to fans
Roma put the disappointment of the Europa League final loss aside, and will re-enter the competition next season after finishing sixth in the Serie A table.
According to Eurosport, Paulo Dybala scored a late equaliser from the spot to help Roma finish sixth and send his former club Juventus to the Europa Conference League next season.
As seen in a video shared on Twitter by La Roma 24, Mourinho was walking off the pitch when fans quizzed him about his future. His reaction suggested he would stay, after he pointed to the ground and waved back.
The former Chelsea boss revealed after the Europa League final that he will proceed on holiday today and hold talks with the club later.
He also revealed that Portugal’s national team approached him before they hired Roberto Martinez.
Mourinho risks lengthy ban
Sports Brief reported that Jose Mourinho risked lengthy ban after he ambushed English referee Anthony Taylor in the parking lot after the Europa League final.
Taylor had a poor outing, and Mourinho clarified his feelings by screaming explicit words at him. This could earn him a lengthy ban after an investigation by UEFA.
Despite a challenging campaign for Liverpool, which saw them narrowly miss out on a top-four finish and end the season without a trophy, Salah managed to score an impressive 30 goals across various competitions.
Nevertheless, Salah appears to have put the disappointments of the season behind him as he shared a heartwarming moment with his daughter during their vacation.
Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah will be looking to add to his impressive scoring record against Leeds United
This demonstrates his focus on personal connections and cherishing the joys of family amidst a break from the intense football schedule.
In a photo shared on social media, Salah is seen with his daughter at a beach as he enjoys the break before pre-season starts.
Following a disappointing season, the former Chelsea player took to social media to express his frustrations but insists the team will be back stronger next season.
“I’m totally devastated. There’s absolutely no excuse for this. We had everything we needed to make it to next year’s Champions League and we failed. We are Liverpool and qualifying to the competition is the bare minimum. I am sorry but it’s too soon for an uplifting or optimistic post. We let you and ourselves down,” he wrote on Twitter.
Fans react to Salah’s post
Earlier, Sports Brief reported that fans of the English Premier League have taken to social media to react to Mohamed Salah’s post after Manchester United beat Chelsea to end Liverpool’s hopes of a Champions League finish.
The Red Devils thrashed Chelsea 4-1 to move into third place and secure the last UEFA Champions League spot for England after Newcastle United confirmed their place on Tuesday with a draw against Leicester City.
With a game left, Liverpool are four points behind fourth place Newcastle United.
Salah disappointed after UCL miss
Liverpool forward, Mohamed Salah released a worrying statement after his side failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League.
The Reds will have to play in the second-tier Europa League in the 2023-24 season, after Manchester United’s win over Chelsea on Thursday confirmed their place in the final Champions League spot.
This is certainly unfamiliar territory for Salah, as it is the first time Liverpool have failed to qualify for the Champions League since 2017.
Prior to their final game of the 2022–23 season, the Parisians officially declared that the Argentine would be leaving the club after two seasons in Paris.
With a 3-2 loss to Clermont being his final game at Parc des Princes, Messi was jeered by some sections of the home crowd both before and after the game.
Although it was anticipated that the Argentine would wait until mid-June to announce his next move, it may happen sooner.
Saudi Arabian club announces date for official announcement regarding Lionel Messi
Barcelona’s hopes of bringing him back the Camp Nou appear to be fading despite their previous confidence of securing a comeback deal.
Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal have made a two year contract offer to Messi’s representatives and the agreement could be completed within days.
As per reports from Diario AS, Al Hilal are prepared to announce Messi as their player on June 6, prior to the 35-year-old departing on a family holiday later this month.
Neymar expressed his sadness upon learning that his teammateLionel Messi will be departing Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at the end of the month, following their two-year stint together in the French capital.
Messi’s tenure at PSG has been met with disappointment by a portion of the club’s supporters, who have criticized and booed the 35-year-old forward for his inability to guide the team to Champions League glory.
As reported by Sportskeeda, Neymar disclosed that both he and Messi had given their best efforts to bring success to the Parisian club, but unfortunately, their expectations did not materialize. Neymar conveyed his best wishes to Messi for his future endeavors.
“Brother… it didn’t turn out as we thought but we tried everything. It was a pleasure to share 2 more years with you. Good luck in your new stage and be happy. I love you #leomessi”
Perhaps for the last time, Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr shared the same color.
Neymar and Messi along with Luis Suarez, forged one of the deadliest attacking partnerships in history with Barcelona when the trio guided the Spanish to numerous titles, including a treble in 2015.
Chelsea and Newcastle enter Messi’s bid
Meanwhile, Premier League clubs Chelsea and Newcastle are making a late play to sign Lionel Messi afterParis Saint-Germain confirmed the Argentine’s departure from the club, Football Transfers reports.
Barcelona, Inter Miami and Al Hilal have all been linked with a move for the 35-year-old forward with the Saudi club offering a whopping $400m deal to lure Messi to the Middle East.
Both EPL clubs are now banking on Messi’s desire to play competitive football in Europe and make a play for the superstar, hoping to convince him to move to England.
PSG loses over 600k followers
Earlier, Sports Brief reported Paris Saint-Germain have started to feel the effect of Lionel Messi’s departure from the club after the club’s social media pages witnessed a massive drop in followers.
PSG announced the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner will leave the Ligue 1 champions before his final game against Clermont on Saturday, June 3rd, and the news had caused a reaction from fans.
Die-hard Messi fans unfollowed the Paris club on the social media app Instagram upon hearing the news of the Argentine’s departure.
After a late stumble fromArsenal, Manchester City won their third consecutive Engli-sh Premier League championship, while Paris Saint-Germain won their eleventh championship.
The top five divisions of Europe’s leagues concluded this past weekend.
League champions were announced as early as May, with Napoli and Barcelona both lead-ing strong campaigns in Italy and Spain.
For Bayern Munich to continue to rule the Bundesliga, a lucky break was required.
After spending a lengthy time out of the top competition in Europe, teams like Arsenal and Newcastle will return for the 2023–2024 season.
Also, there would be a few unexpected gifts from RC Lens (France), Real Sociedad (Spain), and Union Berlin (Germany).
As it stands, the final placing in the four pots is not confirmed, with a few issues still yet to be decided. As Bleacher Reports
Feyenoord, who won the Eredivisie, could drop to Pot 3 should Inter Milan win the Champions League.
Sevilla will also start the draw from Pot 1, having won the Europa League on May 31 for a record-extending seventh time.
As Evening Standard reports, a number of other select teams will fight for a place in the draw through a rigorous playoff round to be announced later.
Rangers, Marseille, PSV Eindhoven and newly-crowned Belgian champions Royal Antwerp will begin their Champions League journey from the play-off stage.
states, the placing is often determined by the club’s coefficients.
Pot 1: Manchester City, Napoli, Bayern Munich, PSG, Sevilla, Benfica, Feyenoord, Barcelona
Pot 2: Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Arsenal, Porto, Leipzig, Atletico Madrid, Shakhtar Donetsk
Pot 3: RB Salzburg, AC Milan, Lazio, Crvena Zvedza, Newcastle United, Celtic, Real Sociedad
Pot 4: Union Berlin, Lens
The teams in bold signify those whose positions on the pots can still change. The group stage draw will be conducted on August 31, 2023.
Champions League referee investigated
Sports Brief also reported that UEFA had begun to investigate referee Szymon Marciniak after he was spotted talking to a far-right politician.
Marciniak, who is due to officiate the Champions League final between Manchester City and Inter Milan on June 10, faced being stood down pending the results of the investigation.
The investigation has, however, since been completed, and Marciniak has been cleared to officiate theChampions League blockbuster.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti expressed his surprise at Karim Benzema’s unexpected decision to leave the club after a remarkable 14-year tenure.
The announcement of Benzema’s departure came as a last-minute revelation on the final day of the LaLiga season.
However, before bidding farewell, the striker made his mark one last time by scoring a penalty equalizer in Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw against Athletic Bilbao.
Benzema’s departure concludes a highly successful chapter in his career, having scored an impressive tally of 354 goals in 648 appearances for Real Madrid.
This achievement solidifies his position as the club’s second-highest goal scorer of all time, trailing only behind Cristiano Ronaldo.
The departure of such an accomplished and decorated player undoubtedly marks a significant transition for the Spanish powerhouse.
Karim Benzema has already missed 13 games for Real Madrid this season due to injury problems. Photo credit Barca Universal
Source: Twitter
Ancelotti told a press conference: “His departure was a surprise for everyone, but you have to understand it. It was a last-minute decision. Yesterday he trained normally and today he made this decision.
“We understand it. I spoke to him this morning and he said that he was leaving and I understood it. He has done very well with me in these four years and also at the club. For that all my thanks.
“He has thought it through and his decision is part of the transition of this club, which continues and will continue next year. We have time to think about what we have to do. We will have a competitive squad next year.
“I am sending him off knowing that I have coached one of the best players in the world and one of the best forwards. He is a very kind, humble and serious person.
“We cannot be happy about his farewell, but we have to respect his decision. He has won the right to choose and we all thank him for what he has been able to do at this club. It has been legendary, something unforgettable, and it will remain forever in the memory of this club.”
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) June 4, 2023
Oihan Sancet broke the deadlock for the visitors four minutes after the break following a first half which had seen Real keeper Thibaut Courtois keep out Mikel Vesga’s penalty.
The hosts won a spot-kick of their own after Eder Militao was fouled in the box, which Benzema coolly converted after 72 minutes for his final goal with the club.
Two minutes later the 35-year-old was replaced by Luka Modric and was treated to a standing ovation as he left the pitch.
Benzema, the Ballon d’Or holder andcurrent UEFA player of the year joined Real from Lyon in July 2009 for a reported fee of 35 million euros and has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad.
The former France international won 25 trophies during his time in Madrid.
He is fifth on Real’s all-time appearance list and his trophy haul in Spain includes five Champions Leagues, five Club World Cups, four European Super Cups, four LaLiga titles, three Copa del Rey victories and four Spanish Super Cups.
Courtois paid tribute to his team-mate, telling the club website: “It’s been a pleasure playing with Benzema. He’s an excellent player and a true legend. It’s a shame he’s leaving, but we understand. He has the right to decide his future. I hope it goes well for him and his family.
“Today and yesterday have been days of goodbyes and it’s sad because important players are leaving. We have to thank them greatly, especially Karim, for his career and the trophies he has won with the club. One of the greatest players in Madrid’s history leaves with the Ballon d’Or.”
Earlier in the day Real Madrid released a statement saying the club and Benzema had “agreed to end his brilliant and unforgettable” stay at the Bernabeu.
It added: “Real Madrid would like to show its gratitude and affection to a player who is already one of our greatest legends.
“Karim Benzema has earned the right to decide his future.
“Madridistas and all the fans around the world have enjoyed his magical and unique football, which has made him one of the great icons of our club and one of the great legends of world football.
“Real Madrid is and will always be his home, and we wish him and all his family the best in this new stage of his life.”
Real have confirmed they will hold “an institutional act of tribute and farewell” to Benzema in the Spanish capital on Tuesday in the presence of club president Florentino Perez.
Real Madrid are in the market for a new centre-forward after announcing Karim Benzema’s departure.
The France international scored 354 goals in 648 appearances to become Real’s second all-time top scorer, behind Cristiano Ronaldo, during a 14-year stay in the Spanish capital.
Here, we run the rule over the main contenders to succeed Benzema at the Bernabeu.
Harry Kane
England captain Harry Kane would appear to be a natural fit for Real given his unceasing ability to score goals for Tottenham.
Kane, who has one year left on his Spurs contract, turns 30 next month, but that is unlikely to put Real off a striker who is the Premier League’s second highest goalscorer and will be strongly coveted by Manchester United and others this summer.
Real have tempted Gareth Bale and Luka Modric away from Tottenham in the past and might be hopeful of striking a deal, with Spurs chairman Daniel Levy unwilling to sell Kane to a Premier League rival in the past.
Kylian Mbappe
Kylian Mbappe is coveted by Madrid but it appears unlikely he will leave Paris
World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe was seemingly on his way to Madrid last summer before choosing to stay at Paris Saint-Germain and chase Champions League glory there.
Like Kane, Mbappe comes with a goals guarantee as he has scored more than 200 for PSG, but the Frenchman has more time on his side than the England forward as he does not celebrate his 25th birthday until December.
Mbappe is a thrilling spectacle in full flight and releasing him from his eye-watering PSG contract, which runs until June 2025, might take a world record transfer fee.
Victor Osimhen
Victor Osimhen is one of the hottest strikers around
Napoli’s first Serie A title for 33 years was fuelled by the goals of Victor Osimhen.
The 24-year-old Nigeria star scored 26 goals in 32 games, with the 6ft 1in striker’s game based around pace, power and athleticism.
Osimhen has two years remaining on his current Napoli deal and has also attracted interest from Manchester United, with Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag known to be a big admirer.
Kai Havertz
Kai Havertz’s time at Chelsea appears to be up
On the face of it, Germany international Kai Havertz would appear to be a strange replacement for goal machine Benzema.
It would not be a like-for-like signing as the 23-year-old Havertz, in a false nine role, struggled to provide the goals Chelsea needed last season.
But his tactical intelligence could enable him to dovetail well with Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior and Real could get a reduction on the £76million Chelsea paid Bayer Leverkusen for Havertz in 2020.
Jonathan David
Canada striker Jonathan David has a growing reputation for club and country and seems ready to step on to a bigger stage after spells in Belgium and France.
The 23-year-old has scored over 50 Ligue 1 goals for Lille since joining from Gent in 2020, with 24 of them coming this season.
Jonathan David
David is known for his pace and versatility, as well his pressing ability out of possession, and can also operate as a second striker.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic, a 41-year-old Swedish striker who scored 62 goals in 122 international matches and 511 goals in 866 club games, has announced his retirement from football.
At the age of 41, Zlatan Ibrahimovic announced on Sunday that he has decided to retire from football.
After a season marred by injuries, the striker’s contract with AC Milan expires at the end of June, and he had previously made it clear he would not be extending it.
Yet on Sunday, the Swedish icon declared that “it’s time to say goodbye to football.”
A clearly emotional Ibrahimovic was serenaded by the Milan fans who held up a large Tifo spelling out ‘Godbye’ and was then given a guard of honour by his team-mates as he left the pitch.
Speaking on the pitch at full-time, Ibrahimovic said: “I have so many memories and lived so many emotions in here, the first time I arrived here you gave me happiness. The second time love.
“I want to thank my family, everyone close to me, for their patience. I want to thank my second family, the players. I want to thank (AC Milan head coach Stefano) Pioli and his staff for the responsibility you have given me. I want to thank the managers for the opportunity.
“But most important of all: from my heart I want to thank you fans. You welcomed me with open arms, you made me feel at home. I will be a Milan fan for life. The time has come to say goodbye to football, but not to you.
“I have too many emotions that are passing through me. See you around, if you’re lucky. Forza Milan and goodbye”.
The striker started his professional career at Malmo FF in 1999 and left for Ajax Amsterdam in 2001 before embarking on a career that has included leading European teams including Manchester United, Inter Milan and Milan.
Ibrahimovic arrived in Milan for his second spell with the club in early 2020, having won the Scudetto with them in 2011, and helped them win the title again last season.
Ibrahimovic, Sweden’s all-time top scorer with 62 goals in 121 matches, quit the national team after Euro 2016 but returned in 2021 for their unsuccessful World Cup qualifying campaign.
Earlier in the evening Rafael Leao had celebrated his second, and Milan’s third, goal of the game by celebrating with the veteran striker on the sidelines. AC Milan beat Hellas Verona 3-1.
Ibrahimovic’s emotional goodbye in pictures
Image:Ibrahimovic was visibly moved to tears while addressing fans at the San SiroImage:Rafael Leao celebrated his second, and Milan’s third, goal of their 3-1 win over Verona on the touchlineImage:Fans spelt out ‘Godbye’ in a large Tifo taking up the second tier of the stadiumImage:Ibrahimovic gave a speech to fans at the end of the final game of his Milan contract – and careerImage:Ibrahimovic was presented with an AC Milan shirt signed by his team-mates at the end of the game
Victor Osimhen, a football talent from Nigeria, is the first African to take home the coveted Serie A Golden Boot award.
Osimhen won the prized award following an extraordinary 2022-23 season with Napoli in which he scored a mind-blowing 26 goals in the Italian premier division.
Goal claims that Lautaro Martinez of Inter Milan was a fierce competitor for the award, but the Napoli forward prevailed.
Victor Osimhen celebrates victory
His impressive run of goals was crucial in Naples winning the Scudetto for the first time in more than three decades.
Osimhen’s latest goal came against Sampdoria in the final game of the season, with the Nigerian international finding the back of the net from the penalty spot in his side’s 2-0 victory.
The Golden Boot was not the only individual award Osimhen won, having also been declared the Serie A’s best striker of the season.
According to The Mirror, Manchester United are among the leading contenders for the signature of the Nigerian ace this summer.
The Red Devils are in dire need of a prolific striker following their struggles in front of the goal this season after the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo.
It is understood that Osimhen is highly regarded by United’s transfer chiefs and tops the club’s striking shortlist.
However, the Red Devils will have to contend with competition from Paris Saint-Germain, who have also been linked with a move for the 24-year-old.
Osimhen speaks on winning Scudetto
Sports Brief earlier reported that Osimhen is yet to fully come to terms with his achievement for newly-crowned Italian champions, Napoli.
The Nigerian striker led Gli Azzurri to their first top flight league title in over three decades after netting 26 goals in the recently-ended season.
Osimhen also top-scored in Serie A at the conclusion of the campaign, becoming the first African to win the golden boot in the Italian league.
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