TIG Post

Author: Abigail Ampofo

  • Valencia to remove Rafa Mir from squad amid sexual assault accusations

    Valencia to remove Rafa Mir from squad amid sexual assault accusations

    Valencia has initiated disciplinary action against forward Rafa Mir after his recent arrest by the Spanish Guardia Civil on allegations of sexual assault.

    While the club did not officially outline the specific disciplinary measures, sources informed Reuters that Mir is expected to face a fine and be separated from the team for an unspecified duration.

    “Valencia wish to reiterate the club’s firm condemnation of any violence in any form, while respecting the presumption of innocence that our legal system promulgates,” the club said in statement.

    “The justice system must decide the course of action regarding the allegations for which Rafa Mir is being investigated.

    “However, as far as the club is concerned, and within the framework of its competences, we have analysed the situation and decided to undertake disciplinary measures.

    “Specifically, the club will proceed to open a case against Rafa Mir as we feel his way of behaving, in his time off, indisputably affects the professional performance expected of him as a player of this club, damaging, in addition, the confidence that our fans have in all of the players.

    “The club will continue to collaborate with the police in whatever way required.”

    Earlier on Monday, Mir denied having committed sexual assault and apologised for “failing to comply, even on a day off, with the rigorous timetable expected of a professional and even more so after a start to the season that fell short of our expectations.”

    Mir, who has also played for Wolves and Sevilla, was arrested last week after a woman filed a complaint against him, and he testified before a judge on Wednesday.

    The judge who ordered his conditional release will now lead an investigation to establish whether there is enough evidence for Mir to stand trial or if the case should be dropped.

    Mir will have to appear in court regularly and is not allowed to leave the country.

  • We need Neymar to win 2026 World Cup – Real Madrid’s Rodrygo

    We need Neymar to win 2026 World Cup – Real Madrid’s Rodrygo

    Real Madrid forward Rodrygo says Neymar’s presence is vital for Brazil as they pursue their sixth World Cup title in 2026.

    After scoring the decisive first-half goal that secured Brazil’s 1-0 victory over Ecuador on Friday, breaking their three-match losing streak in CONMEBOL qualifying, the 23-year-old highlighted Neymar’s importance to the national team’s success moving forward.

    “He’s our star, our best player,” Rodrygo said in an exclusive ESPN Brasil interview. “Anyone can see it, how much he is missed. Having Neymar healthy, which is what we all want, [and] he is in the final stages of his recovery.

    We want him back as soon as possible.”

    Brazil, the five-time world champions, ended 2023 on a difficult note, suffering consecutive losses to Uruguay, Colombia, and Argentina.

    After these defeats, Brazil sat in sixth place in the standings with just six rounds played. However, with their victory on Friday, Brazil now stands in fourth place with 10 points.

    They are scheduled to face Paraguay in Asuncion on Tuesday.

    Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading men’s scorer, underwent surgery on November 2, 2023, to repair ACL and meniscus injuries in his left knee, which he sustained during a World Cup qualifying loss to Uruguay in October.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVjqJjCNOJI

    The former Barcelona and PSG star had joined Saudi club Al Hilal in the summer of 2023 for €90 million.

    Throughout his career, Neymar has dealt with recurring injuries, including several right ankle and foot injuries that sidelined him in 2021 and kept him out of Brazil’s 2019 Copa América triumph.

    Meanwhile, Rodrygo, a rising star for Brazil, has expressed his admiration for Neymar, stating that they remain in contact and that he views Neymar as his idol.

    “We always message each other. He is now returning to training with the group,” Rodrygo said. “He’s a great teammate. It makes me sad when I see someone talking badly about him, because of the person he is.

    He always sends me messages, helps me. I love him. In addition to being my idol as a player, as a person he has shown himself to be a fantastic person.”

    Rodrygo tallied 10 goals in 34 LaLiga games last season and scored an additional five goals in the Champions League.

    The arrival of Kylian Mbappé has increased competition for Rodrygo’s spot in the Real Madrid lineup.

    Despite this, coach Carlo Ancelotti has consistently included him in the three-man forward trio for the current season.

    Meanwhile, Paraguay and Uruguay ended their qualifying match on Friday with a goalless tie.

  • Jerome, another to be absent for the Ghana-Niger match – Otto Addo confirms

    Jerome, another to be absent for the Ghana-Niger match – Otto Addo confirms

    Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has announced that two important players will miss their AFCON qualifier against Niger in Morocco.

    Jerome Opoku has been ruled out due to back pain and has travelled to Turkey for treatment, while Joseph Paintsil will also be unavailable because of unresolved paperwork issues.

    Speaking before the match, Addo expressed confidence in the remaining squad despite the absence of these key players.

    “Jerome had serious back problems. His body couldn’t adapt to the training ground in Kumasi, and it became so serious that he had to return to his club for special treatment,” Addo said.

    Joseph Paintsil has been ruled out of Ghana’s upcoming AFCON qualifier against Niger due to issues with his paperwork, preventing him from joining the squad in Morocco.

    Despite this setback, the Black Stars are determined to bounce back from their loss to Angola in the opening match and secure a win to revive their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign.

    The match is set to take place at Stade Municipal de Berkane in Morocco, with kick-off scheduled for 16:00 GMT.

  • Semenyo, Kudus, others have a difficult time playing for Ghana – Laryea Kingston explains

    Semenyo, Kudus, others have a difficult time playing for Ghana – Laryea Kingston explains

    Ghanaian football legend Laryea Kingston has expressed his concerns over the quality of the pitch at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, attributing it as a key factor in the Black Stars’ loss to Angola on September 5, 2024.

    In a match that ended in a 1-0 defeat due to a late goal by Felicio Milson, Kingston highlighted that the poor state of the pitch hindered Ghana’s ability to play fluid, build-up football from the back.

    He specifically pointed to how the playing surface disrupted ball progression, impacting players like Mohammed Kudus and Antoine Semenyo from delivering performances comparable to their club displays.

    Kingston’s comments resonate with a broader conversation about the quality of pitches in Ghana, which has often been cited as a challenge for the national team in executing their game plan effectively.

    The defeat also marked the Black Stars’ first loss at the Baba Yara Stadium in over 20 years, adding to the significance of his critique.

    “Football has changed. Previously, we could launch long balls and get results, but now the game has changed. Now teams and coaches have advanced; teams are able to deal with long balls.

    People might say that we previously got results from playing on these same bad pitches, but we should know the style of play is different. The more you put the ball on the ground, the more advantage you have as a team.

    “If you look at the goal we conceded, the ball was not on the ground.

    They whipped in a cross from the wide area, and I have no doubt that if the ball was on the ground, Mumin would have stood and cleared the ball.

    “Look at Kudus at West Ham and Semenyo at Bournemouth. They perform fantastically for their clubs, but when they come here, they struggle because of the poor quality of our pitches,” he said.

    The Black Stars have landed in Morocco to continue preparations for their next match in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.

    The team is focused on bouncing back from their recent loss as they face Niger on Monday, September 9, 2024, with hopes of returning to winning form.

  • Free SHS programme is the most audacious social intervention in the 4th Republic – Otumfuo

    Free SHS programme is the most audacious social intervention in the 4th Republic – Otumfuo

    The Overlord of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has hailed President Akufo-Addo’s Free Senior High School (SHS) policy as the most ambitious social intervention of the Fourth Republic.

    The Asantehene made these remarks during a special ceremony at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), where he was awarded an honorary doctorate for his contributions to national development and peace.

    Speaking at the event, Otumfuo praised the government for implementing a policy that, in his words, was “beyond the capacity of the state” during the post-independence era.

    “There is no doubt that the Free SHS policy is the most audacious social intervention in our Fourth Republic,” he said, adding that previous reforms had not ventured into making secondary education accessible to all.

    “The decision to take the plan has been ambitious, and it is no wonder it has kept education at the top of national discourse.”

    Introduced in 2017, the Free SHS policy aims to remove financial barriers to education for all Ghanaian students. Since its launch, more than 1.6 million students have benefitted from the programme.

    Despite its impact, calls have been made for a review of the policy to address concerns over quality, infrastructure, and its strain on the national budget. 

    As economic pressures mount, discussions continue on how to refine the policy while maintaining its core objectives.

  • COCOBOD faces loan repayment crisis as cocoa smuggling soars

    COCOBOD faces loan repayment crisis as cocoa smuggling soars

    COCOBOD is facing the risk of defaulting on loans taken to support cocoa farming as smuggling activities continue to rise, according to Joseph Boahen Aidoo, CEO of Ghana COCOBOD.

    Addressing the media in Kumasi, Mr. Aidoo raised concerns about the impact of increasing cocoa smuggling on the repayment of loans that fund various interventions for farmers.

     These loans have been used to purchase essential inputs like fertilisers, pesticides, and cocoa seedlings.

    “This year, we supplied more than enough fertilisers, such as liquid fertiliser, insecticides, and fungicides. Cocobod also funded the pruning of cocoa farms,” he explained.

    However, with cocoa being smuggled out of the country, he questioned how COCOBOD would manage to repay these loans.

    Mr. Aidoo revealed that smugglers are employing new methods, including using fuel tankers to transport cocoa out of Ghana. 

    “Given the severity of the issue, military involvement is now deemed crucial,” he added, explaining that COCOBOD has requested the assistance of the Ministry of Defence to tackle the problem.

    The CEO emphasised that cocoa is vital to Ghana’s economy, providing the foreign exchange necessary to support the nation’s balance of payments. 

    “We cannot afford to lose our cocoa exports, especially since we heavily support local farmers,” he stressed.

    The Anti-Cocoa Smuggling Program, funded by COCOBOD, will be led by the armed forces to clamp down on illegal activities. 

    Mr. Aidoo expressed optimism that these efforts, along with other initiatives to boost cocoa production, will yield positive results in the coming year, benefiting both the industry and farmers.

  • Throwback image of JJ Rawlings and Captain Kojo Tsikata taken at a govt guest house emerges

    Throwback image of JJ Rawlings and Captain Kojo Tsikata taken at a govt guest house emerges

    In 1988, a memorable photograph was taken of the late former president, Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, alongside Captain Kojo Tsikata and Elaine Robnett Moore, an American expatriate working in Ghana at the time.

    The trio, captured at a government guest house in Accra, were seen sharing a light-hearted moment, smiling warmly.

    Elaine Moore was one of several American professionals contributing to Ghana’s development during the Rawlings administration.

    The image symbolises the close ties between Ghana and the United States, which have maintained a strong bilateral relationship dating back to the pre-colonial era.

    A snapshot shared by Adeyinka Makinde on YouTube offers a glimpse into the strong connections between Ghana’s leadership and international partners during the late 1980s.

    It reflects a time of active collaboration and engagement between Ghana and foreign professionals who contributed to the country’s development.

    Captain Kojo Tsikata and former President Jerry John Rawlings were close allies dating back to their days in the military, particularly during the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) regime.

    Tsikata, an influential and often controversial figure in Ghanaian politics, played a pivotal role in national security.

    Before his passing in 2021, he served as the head of national security and intelligence under the PNDC, leaving behind a complex legacy shaped by his involvement in the country’s political landscape.

    During his military career, Captain Kojo Tsikata survived two death sentences following accusations of coup attempts and murder. In archival footage, Tsikata reflected on the deep emotional toll these allegations took on him.

    He revealed that in many of these cases, he was never given the opportunity to defend himself, leaving him to silently endure the weight of the charges brought against him.

  • AFCON 2025 Qualifiers: Black Stars train ahead of upcoming game against Niger

    AFCON 2025 Qualifiers: Black Stars train ahead of upcoming game against Niger

    Black Stars head coach Otto Addo conducted the first training session with 22 players on Saturday afternoon, as Ghana prepares for their crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Niger.

    The squad size was reduced after Istanbul Basaksehir defender Jerome Opoku withdrew due to injury on Saturday.

    Additionally, winger Joseph Paintsil, who plays for Los Angeles Galaxy, was unable to join the squad as he remained in Accra to resolve passport issues, leaving the team slightly short-staffed ahead of Monday’s decisive match.

    Despite these absences, several key players were present for the training session, including goalkeepers Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Joseph Wollacott, and Frederick Asare.

    The defensive lineup featured Alidu Seidu, Tariq Lamptey, Mohammed Salisu, and Abdul Mumin.

    Midfielders and forwards Fatawu Issahaku, Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo, and Elisha Owusu, who all played in Thursday’s match against Angola, were also involved in the session.

    In addition, players who came off the bench in the previous game—Majeed Ashimeru, Forson Amankwah, Inaki Williams, Kingsley Schindler, and Brandon Thomas-Asante—participated in the training, along with Jonas Adjetey, Ibrahim Osman, Ebenezer Annan, and Abu Francis.

    The Black Stars are set to face Niger at the Municipal Sports Complex in Berkane on Monday, September 9, 2024.

  • Galamsey: Declare a state of emergency – IMANI President tells Akufo-Addo

    Galamsey: Declare a state of emergency – IMANI President tells Akufo-Addo

    Franklin Cudjoe, President of IMANI Africa, has urged President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to declare a state of emergency in response to the severe damage inflicted on the nation’s water bodies by illegal mining, also known as galamsey.

    Cudjoe criticized the president for what he sees as inaction, pointing out that the president’s recent focus on trips to China has overshadowed the pressing issue of galamsey.

    During an appearance on Channel One News’ “The Big Issue” on Saturday, Cudjoe also voiced his frustration with the National Security Minister, accusing him of not recognising the critical nature of the crisis.

    “It behoves us to do that. We are looking up to the president to lead the charge.

    In a serious civilised country, the call by some of the media actors that some sort of emergency should be declared should have been listened to long ago because this is really an emergency.

    “These are people who are going to be killed by these mining activities down the line. I expected the president—that is where leadership counts, but he is gallivanting in China claiming to be doing what on our behalf.”

    “I don’t even understand what is wrong with that man. Look, this is an existential threat.

    In fact, I even expected the National Security Minister to declare some sort of emergency already, but he is also asleep, fast asleep more than even the president… Until the president actually declares an emergency, nothing will happen,” he stated.

  • Bernard Mornah now PNC’s flagbearer

    Bernard Mornah now PNC’s flagbearer

    Bernard Mornah has successfully clinched the position of flagbearer for the People’s National Convention (PNC) in a pivotal moment for the party.

    The announcement was made by Electoral Commission representatives on September 7, 2024, at the UDS Guest House in Accra.

    During the party’s congress, held to elect new national executives ahead of the December general elections, Mornah dominated the race with 1,138 votes. His rival, David Apasera, managed to secure 216 votes.

    In his victory address, Mornah extended a hand of cooperation to Apasera, emphasizing the importance of collaboration to strengthen the PNC ahead of the general elections.

    He underscored the need for unity to elevate the party’s chances of gaining political influence.

    Despite an earlier delay caused by an injunction from Apasera’s camp, the congress proceeded smoothly after the legal issue was resolved.

  • Video: You don’t need the goal more than I do – Kudus clashes with Appiah Stadium at airport

    Video: You don’t need the goal more than I do – Kudus clashes with Appiah Stadium at airport

    Black Stars midfielder Mohammed Kudus found himself in an uncomfortable situation after being repeatedly criticised by Frank Kwaku Appiah, also known as Appiah Stadium, a well-known supporter of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    The West Ham United player eventually responded to the accusations, as Appiah Stadium continuously blamed him for not delivering his best performances for the national team.

    The incident occurred at Prempeh I International Airport while Kudus and the Black Stars squad were preparing for their flight to Morocco for their upcoming match against Niger.

    Initially, Kudus was happily interacting with airport staff, taking photos with them, when Appiah Stadium began his harsh commentary, questioning why Kudus couldn’t replicate his stellar club form with the Black Stars.

    Although Kudus tried to ignore the criticisms at first, focusing on the fans, the relentless negative comments from Appiah Stadium eventually provoked him to respond.

    @kofiquanmusic #kofiquanmusic #fyp #kofiquannews #quanmusic #trend #quanmusic ♬ original sound – Kofi Quan Music

    Fed up with the conduct of Appiah Stadium, Kudus retorted, “Do you need the goals more than me?”

    Airport staff and some Ghanaians who were present urged Appiah Stadium to stop harassing the footballer, but Appiah Stadium would have none of that.

    Kudus eventually left the scene to join his teammates and coaches, who flew out to Morocco on Saturday, September 7, 2024.

    The Black Stars will, on Monday, September 9, take on Niger in their second game of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

    The Black Stars lost their opening game 0-1 to Angola at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi.

  • China reaches agreement with Nigeria to construct railway in country’s commercial hub

    China reaches agreement with Nigeria to construct railway in country’s commercial hub

    China Harbour Engineering Co. has reached an agreement to construct a 68-kilometer (42-mile) railway in Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling commercial center known for its heavy traffic congestion.

    The project aims to alleviate the gridlock that often leaves commuters stuck for extended periods.

    The Lagos state government announced on Thursday that Nigeria’s Ministry of Finance Inc., in collaboration with the Chinese firm, will secure funding for the “design, finance, operation, and maintenance” of the railway.

    The announcement was made through an email statement.

    The memorandum of understanding for the Green Line Rail Project was signed during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in Beijing this week.

    At the summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping introduced various economic incentives for Africa, including $50 billion in financial aid and $10 billion in investments from Chinese companies.

    This railway will connect Marina, located in Lagos’s central business district, to the Lekki Free Zone on the city’s outskirts, home to the Lagos Deep Sea Port and the Dangote Refinery, which processes 650,000 barrels of oil per day.

    “This rail line is projected to carry over 500,000 passengers daily at launch, rising to over a million as demand grows,” according to the statement.

    When completed, the new route will add to an existing so-called Blue Line that was commissioned in August 2023 and a Red Line that began operating this year.

    Lagos, about the size of the US state of Rhode Island, is home to more than 20 million people and has one of the fastest-growing populations in Africa.

    The state’s poor road and transport infrastructure means residents are forced to sit in traffic for hours, with commuters estimated to spend a total of 14.1 million hours a day in traffic every year, according to a 2021 report by Lagos-based Danne Institute for Research.

  • Mahama set to submit nominations for 2024 presidential election tomorrow

    Mahama set to submit nominations for 2024 presidential election tomorrow

    National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, is set to submit his nomination papers for the upcoming presidential election on Monday, September 9, 2024.

    According to Joyce Bawah Mogtari, the spokesperson for Mahama’s campaign, the filing marks an important milestone in their efforts, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and economic recovery being central to their campaign strategy.

    “This is a momentous occasion for the NDC as we gear up to build the Ghana we want together. Our campaign focusses on jobs, Accountability, Development, and a better future for all Ghanaians,” Mogtari stated.

    Former President John Dramani Mahama is scheduled to begin a four-day visit to the Bono Region on Sunday as part of his #Mahama4Change2024 campaign.

    The tour will cover all 12 constituencies in the region, where he will engage with local communities, meet with religious leaders, and pay visits to various traditional councils.

    He is also set to hold discussions with the Bono Regional House of Chiefs.

    During his visit, Mr. Mahama will host a youth forum at Sunyani Technical University, where he is expected to outline his plans for revitalising the economy and generating employment opportunities through innovative policies and growth-driven initiatives.

  • Meet Daasebre Osei Bonsu I, the ‘second Otumfuo’ in the Asante kingdom

    Meet Daasebre Osei Bonsu I, the ‘second Otumfuo’ in the Asante kingdom

    Mamponghene and Asanteman Nifahene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, has assumed the role of acting ruler of the Ashanti Kingdom in the absence of Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

    Otumfuo Osei Tutu II departed his Kingdom on September 5, 2024, to participate in the Oguaa Fetu Afahye, a prominent annual festival held by the people of Cape Coast in the Central Region.

    This year’s festival is particularly special, as it celebrates its 60th anniversary.

    During the Asantehene’s absence, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II will manage the affairs of the kingdom until his return from the Cape Coast.

    Meanwhile, Bantamahene Baffuor Owusu Amankwaatia VI, who serves as the Krontihene of Kumasi, is overseeing the city of Kumasi in Otumfuo’s absence.

    He will maintain this responsibility until the Asantehene comes back from the coast.

    A Facebook post from the Manhyia Palace-affiliated Asante Nation indicated that both caretakers will report to Otumfuo upon his return, briefing him on all developments that occurred during his time away.

  • Nine Asante Kotoko players denied visas into the US for DC United game

    Nine Asante Kotoko players denied visas into the US for DC United game

    Ghana Premier League have commenced the visa application process at the U.S. Embassy for their upcoming fixture against Major League Soccer (MLS) side DC United, set for October 14, 2024.

    Nine out of the 18 players who attended the visa interview were denied, with plans underway for the players to reapply.

    Kotoko will take on DC United at Audi Field in Washington’s Buzzard Point after securing a 2-1 victory over archrivals Hearts of Oak in the Democracy Cup.

    This annual ceremonial match is being organised by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) in collaboration with the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and is part of the broader Ghana Week DC 2024 celebrations, scheduled from October 7 to 12.

    This will mark the second time a Ghana Premier League club has travelled to the U.S. for a friendly against DC United, following Medeama SC’s 2-1 defeat in a similar exhibition match on October 14, 2023.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n0onP80D4xo
  • Boycott your next game and speak up! – Nana Aba to Black Stars over Baba Yara Stadium pitch

    Boycott your next game and speak up! – Nana Aba to Black Stars over Baba Yara Stadium pitch

    Renowned broadcaster Nana Aba Anamoah has called on Black Stars players to boycott their next home match in protest of the poor pitch conditions.

    In a post on X, she urged the players to take a stand and demand better playing surfaces, suggesting they refuse to play until the pitches are restored to the required standard.

    “For me, the players should boycott the next game if that pitch is not fixed. (But who am I, in Wontumi’s voice?)”” she wrote.

    “The players need to speak up against the greed, lies, and disregard for what’s right. How is the FA comfortable with that pitch?”

    The Baba Yara Stadium received conditional approval to host the match after the National Sports Authority fell short of meeting the required standards following a five-day church event held at the venue.

    After the Black Stars’ loss to Angola, head coach Otto Addo highlighted that the poor condition of the pitch played a significant role in the team’s underwhelming performance.

    “It was unlucky for Mumin, but we made some errors even before that situation. But the pitch was not good, and we can’t overlook that,” he said.

    Ghana began the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with a 1-0 home defeat at the Baba Yara Stadium. This was the team’s first loss in 24 years at the venue.

    They will be hoping to get back to winning ways in their second group game against Niger on Monday, September 9.

  • 104 heavily-armed ‘galamseyers’ against minister’s 30 men taskforce – Seth Acheampong recounts encounter

    104 heavily-armed ‘galamseyers’ against minister’s 30 men taskforce – Seth Acheampong recounts encounter

    Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Kwame Acheampong, has revealed alarming details about the heavy armament of illegal miners during their operations.

    Speaking on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo show with host Kwami Sefa Kayi on Thursday, September 5, 2024, Acheampong shared a personal account of leading a task force of about 30 men on a mission to apprehend illegal miners.

    Upon reaching the site, the minister disclosed that they encountered a group of 104 heavily-armed miners, vastly outnumbering his team.

    Recognising the potential danger of a violent clash, Acheampong and his task force were forced to retreat to avoid any escalation.

    “I went to a galamsey site with a taskforce team to stop the illegal mining activities. When we arrived, we found about 104 illegal miners, which was significantly more than the 30 taskforce members with me, and I will say the truth: as a man, I told them to retreat; else any attempt we make to stop them can harm and even kill us, so we had to return home to properly prepare ourselves,” he said.

    Seth Acheampong bemoaned how these illegal miners, who carry guns for self-protection, have become a significant problem for the country and could pose a serious threat to the nation’s security.

    “This is the biggest problem that has befallen the country. These are some of the things we face and the kind of guns they are armed with,” he added.

    Acheampong’s remarks come in response to growing public calls for the government to take decisive action against illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey.

    This follows a statement from Ghana Water Company Limited, which emphasised the increasing difficulty in supplying clean water due to the deteriorating state of the Pra River, worsened by the impact of galamsey operations.

  • Cole Palmer left out of Chelsea’s squad for the Conference League

    Cole Palmer left out of Chelsea’s squad for the Conference League

    Chelsea have excluded Cole Palmer, Wesley Fofana, and Romeo Lavia from their squad for the UEFA Conference League, opting instead for a 29-man roster announced on Thursday.

    Notable inclusions are Pedro Neto, Mykhailo Mudryk, and Jadon Sancho.

    Despite Palmer’s impressive performance last season—featuring in 55 games and scoring in the Euro 2024 final against Spain—the midfielder was left out.

    However, he is set for another busy season, as Chelsea have already secured a spot in the revamped FIFA Club World Cup next summer in the U.S., thanks to their 2021 Champions League win.

    Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League group stage opponents include Gent, Panathinaikos, Armenia’s Noah, Bundesliga surprise leaders Heidenheim, Astana, and Shamrock Rovers.

    The squad will be updated ahead of the knockout rounds, which begin in February.

    After a difficult 2023-24 season under Mauricio Pochettino, where Chelsea finished sixth, the team is now under new manager Enzo Maresca.

    Currently sitting 11th in the Premier League after three games, the Blues are aiming for a stronger campaign this year.

  • Vandalism of stadium not out of pain but lost bets – NSA boss on fans attacks after Ghana-Angola clash

    Vandalism of stadium not out of pain but lost bets – NSA boss on fans attacks after Ghana-Angola clash

    Deputy Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Alhaji Abdul Majeed Bawa, has addressed the recent disturbances at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium following Ghana’s 1-0 loss to Angola in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

    After the match, frustration among fans escalated, leading to considerable damage at the stadium. Supporters threw objects onto the pitch and vandalised advertising panels.

    In an interview with Asempa FM, Bawa attributed the chaos to the actions of mainly young fans who were upset over losses related to bets placed on the match’s outcome.

    “They destroyed, they threw missiles and all manner of things onto the pitch. That one too, is it caused by the NSA? They destroyed the pitch panels,” Bawa stated, dismissing the idea that the NSA could have prevented the incident.

    He further suggested that the fans’ actions were linked to their frustration over losing their bets rather than just the defeat itself.

    “Honestly, that’s my feeling because if you see all those people who did that thing, they are all young guys,” Bawa added.

    Reflecting on the situation, Bawa emphasised that the crowd’s reaction likely would have been different had Ghana won.

    “Throwing missiles because we lost. I believe they would not have done that if Ghana had won. After the tension subsided, you ask them and they were saying they disappointed them and they lost. Not that Ghana has lost, oh, but they lost a bet,” he explained.

    Ghana’s loss to Angola has left the Black Stars with a challenging start in their AFCON 2025 qualifying campaign.

    The team will need to recover quickly as they prepare to face Niger in the second match of the qualifiers on Monday, September 9.

  • FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup: Ghana suffers a devastating 0-4 defeat to Japan

    FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup: Ghana suffers a devastating 0-4 defeat to Japan

    Ghana’s hopes for their first win in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup were dashed after a 4-1 defeat to Japan in their second Group E match in Colombia.

    The Black Princesses initially showed promise, maintaining composure for the first 40 minutes.

    However, Japan broke the deadlock with Sasai’s goal in the 45th minute, followed by Matsukubo’s strike in stoppage time after a goalkeeping error by Afi Amenyeku.

    Two more goals in the second half sealed Ghana’s second consecutive loss in the tournament.

    In the second half, Mafia Nyame and Mercy Attobra replaced Wasiima Mohammed and Mary Amponsah, but their introduction did little to change the course of the game.

    Bayana capitalized on a chaotic goalmouth scramble, scoring Japan’s third goal. Ghana briefly regained hope when Stella Nyamekye converted a penalty after being fouled in the 83rd minute.

    However, any chance of a comeback was short-lived as Matsunaga struck once more for Japan, sealing the 4-1 victory and deepening the Black Princesses’ struggles in the tournament.

  • “A country like Ghana deserves a better pitch” – Angola coach jabs

    “A country like Ghana deserves a better pitch” – Angola coach jabs

    Angola’s head coach, Pedro Goncalves, expressed disappointment over the poor condition of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium pitch following his team’s 1-0 victory against Ghana in an AFCON 2025 qualifier.

    In a post-match interview, Goncalves emphasized that a nation like Ghana should offer better-quality facilities for its home matches, as the state of the field hindered the overall gameplay.

    Despite securing the win, Goncalves lamented the challenge posed by the inadequate playing surface, which made it difficult for both teams to perform at their best.

    “A country like Ghana deserves a better pitch,” the Angola national team head coach said after the game.

    Besides his concern with the bad condition of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, coach Pedro Goncalves was full of praise for his players.

    He said the win is just what his side needs as they continue to grow as a national team.

    “We are improving a lot. It’s true. The last AFCON and the last COSAFA. Everybody feels that we are growing, but we are searching for this kind of win. The challenge for sure is that tomorrow we return to the ground to work,” Coach Pedro Goncalves said.

    In Round 2 of the qualifiers for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, Ghana will take on Niger while Angola faces off with Sudan.

  • Election 2024: Mahama promises to establish tractor stations in all farming communities

    Election 2024: Mahama promises to establish tractor stations in all farming communities

    Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has pledged to establish tractor stations in farming communities across Ghana if elected in the upcoming December 7 elections.

    According to Mahama, these tractor stations will provide farmers with easier access to mechanized farming equipment and other vital resources, alleviating the challenges they face in acquiring necessary tools to enhance their agricultural activities.

    He made this commitment during a campaign stop at Kwame Danso, located in the Sene West District of the Bono East Region, where he addressed a crowd of supporters and local farmers as part of his 2024 campaign tour.

    “When the NDC comes to power, all farming communities will receive their share of tractor stations.

    Sene West will have its own centre, equipped with 10 tractors, and everything you need to make farming easier will be available for you to access.

    “Farmers will need to form cooperatives and register their names, after which their farmlands will be measured to determine what each has.

    Once registered, you can go to the tractor stations and receive the assistance you need.”

  • US’ star Alex Morgan announces retirement

    US’ star Alex Morgan announces retirement

    Forward for the United States women’s national team, Alex Morgan has announced her retirement in a video shared on social media Thursday.

    In her announcement, Morgan also revealed that she is expecting her second child. She plans to play her final match this Sunday when San Diego Wave FC takes on the North Carolina Courage.

    “I have so much clarity about this decision, and I am so happy to be able to finally tell you,” Morgan said in the video. “It has been a long time coming, and this decision wasn’t easy, but at the beginning of 2024 I felt in my heart and soul that this was the last season that I would play soccer.”

    At 35, Alex Morgan has had an illustrious career as a two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medallist. She ranks fifth in U.S. women’s national team history with 123 goals in 224 appearances.

    Despite starting throughout the spring, she was not included in the USWNT squad for the 2024 Olympics.

    Morgan made her debut for the national team in 2010 and quickly made an impact, scoring a vital goal in Italy during a FIFA World Cup playoff to secure the U.S.’s spot in the 2011 tournament.

    soon established herself as a regular starter, forming a dynamic partnership with Abby Wambach, which led to the U.S. finishing as runners-up in the 2011 World Cup and clinching the 2012 Olympic gold.

    “I grew up on this team, it was so much more than soccer,” Morgan said in a statement from U.S. Soccer. “It was the friendships and the unwavering respect and support among each other, the relentless push for global investment in women’s sports, and the pivotal moments of success both on and off the field.

    “I am so incredibly honored to have borrowed the crest for more than 15 years. I learnt so much about myself in that time, and so much of that is a credit to my teammates and our fans. I feel immense pride in where this team is headed, and I will forever be a fan of the USWNT.

    “My desire for success may have always driven me, but what I got in return was more than I could have ever asked and hoped for.”

    Despite battling injuries leading up to the 2015 World Cup, Alex Morgan secured her place in the USWNT’s starting lineup as the team fought its way through the tournament, ultimately triumphing over Japan 5-2 in the final.

    Four years later, at the 2019 World Cup, Morgan found the back of the net six times, with five of those goals coming in a historic 13-0 victory against Thailand, making her one of the tournament’s top scorers.

    In 2023, Morgan participated in her fourth World Cup, starting all four matches for the USWNT. However, the team experienced an unprecedented early exit, being knocked out in the round of 16.

  • 27 independent aspirants pick up presidential nomination forms for Dec polls – Reports

    27 independent aspirants pick up presidential nomination forms for Dec polls – Reports

    As the race for Ghana’s 2024 presidential election intensifies, a notable 27 individuals have expressed their intentions to run as independent candidates.

    According to a report from Graphic Online, these hopefuls have obtained access codes from the Electoral Commission (EC), allowing them to download and submit their nomination forms.

    The inclusion of these independent candidates brings the total number of presidential aspirants to 39, with 12 registered political parties also joining the contest.

    The political parties that have picked up nomination forms include major contenders such as the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and other parties like the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Progressive People’s Party (PPP), Great Consolidated Popular Party (GCPP), and All People’s Congress (APC).

    Other political parties in the race are the People’s National Convention (PNC), the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), the Ghana Union Movement (GUM), the National Democratic Party (NDP), the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), and the Progressive Alliance for Ghana (PAG).

    Among the independent candidates vying for the presidency are notable figures like George Twum-Barim-Adu, Samuel Apea-Danquah, Alan Kyerematen, Nana Kwame Bediako, and Jacob Osei Yeboah.

    Others include Richard Sumah, Kofi Koranteng, Desmond Abrefa, Dr. Agnes Ayisha, Dr. Nii Amu Darko, Wilberforce Andrews, and Nana Stephens.

    More candidates such as Rev. Samuel Worlanyo, T.K. Amenya, Robert Roy Reindorf, Paul Perkoh, Seth Ntim Agyarko, Stephen Atubiga, Janet Asana Nabla, and Sam Ankrah have also joined the race, alongside others like Nana Ohene Aggrey Bentsil Djan, Tom Asiseh, Kenneth Kwame Asamoah, Tawiah N. Hemans, Muhammad Abdullah, James Kwasi Oppong, and Isaac Wiafe Ofori.

    The EC has announced that presidential candidates are expected to submit their completed nomination forms at the Commission’s headquarters between September 9 and September 13, 2024.

    The forms can be submitted in two daily sessions, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

  • Ghana risks becoming a stranded assets country over delayed passage of lithium deal – Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu

    Ghana risks becoming a stranded assets country over delayed passage of lithium deal – Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu

    New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament (MP) for Suame and former Majority Leader of Parliament, Mr Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has voiced concerns over the delay in the passage of Ghana’s lithium agreement, citing the risk of Ghana becoming a stranded asset country.

    A stranded assets country refers to a country whose valuable resources or investments, particularly in the energy or natural resources sector, become obsolete or lose value due to changes in market conditions, regulations, or technological advancements. 

    As global demand for the mineral surges, the Suame Member of Parliament has called for an expedited process to see the deal materialise. 

    Mr. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu made these remarks on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, during a stakeholder forum in Parliament. 

    Mr Kyei-Mensah cautioned that the window of opportunity to maximise the benefits from lithium, which is essential in the production of batteries for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems, might be shorter than anticipated.

    He mentioned that “We must declare in our minds that if we don’t take action, we may experience stranded assets in the not-too-distant future. As far as lithium is concerned, we should not think that it is an eternal resource.”

    “What is happening now, pretty soon, if we are not careful, it may fall into the category of stranded assets. That is not to say that we should not approach it with some degree of caution,” he added.

    The day’s stakeholder forum was organised by the Lands and Natural Resources Committee of Parliament. It had stakeholders coming together to deliberate decisively on the subject. 

    About the Lithium deal: 

    In October 2023, Ghana signed its first lithium mining lease with Barari DV Ghana Ltd., a subsidiary of Atlantic Lithium, for the Ewoyaa lithium project. 

    The deal aims to tap into global demand for lithium, crucial for renewable energy and battery technologies. 

    The agreement includes a government take of 58% on profits, a 13% free carried interest, and a 6% stake in the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF). 

    Additionally, 1% of revenue is dedicated to a Community Development Fund to benefit local communities.

    The deal is under parliamentary review and has generated public debate, with critics questioning its transparency and raising concerns about its potentially exploitative nature.

  • Nico Williams one of 10 La Liga players shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or

    Nico Williams one of 10 La Liga players shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or

    Spain forward Nico Williams, of Ghanaian descent, has been named among the 10 players shortlisted for the 2024 Ballon d’Or from La Liga.

    Williams earned this nomination following his stellar performances for Spain during the 2024 European Championship, where he played a crucial role in helping La Roja secure the title.

    His remarkable form also extended to his club season with Athletic Club, where he was instrumental in their triumph in the Copa del Rey.

    Other La Liga players nominated for the prestigious award include Lamine Yama, Jude Bellingham, Dani Olmo, Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., and retired star Toni Kroos.

  • Uruguay honors Luis Suarez with a tribute featuring his notorious handball incident against Ghana

    Uruguay honors Luis Suarez with a tribute featuring his notorious handball incident against Ghana

    The Uruguayan Football Federation paid tribute to Luis Suarez as he announced his retirement from international football by referencing one of the most infamous moments of his career – his handball against Ghana during the 2010 World Cup.

    In a post shared on X (formerly known as Twitter), Uruguay posted a video of the controversial incident that played a key role in their victory over Ghana in the quarterfinals, along with a caption honouring Suarez’s legacy.

    The tribute highlighted the defining moment that left a lasting impression on football history and Suarez’s career: “Nothing will be the same without him.”

    Luis Suarez left a nostalgic comment on a social media post with an emoji, reflecting on a memorable moment from his career.

    The Uruguayan forward recently announced his retirement from international football, ahead of Uruguay’s World Cup qualifier against Paraguay on Saturday, September 7, 2024.

    This match will mark Suarez’s final appearance for his national team.

    As Uruguay’s all-time top scorer, Suarez boasts an impressive record of 69 goals in 142 appearances since making his debut in February 2007 against Colombia.

    His career also holds a significant place in football history, especially for Ghanaians and Africans, due to the infamous match at the 2010 World Cup.

    The quarter-final between Uruguay and Ghana, played 14 years ago, ended in heartbreak for Ghana, who were on the brink of a historic semi-final appearance. However, they were ultimately eliminated in a penalty shootout.

  • Casemiro bent on Man Utd stay amid Galatasaray links – Source

    Casemiro bent on Man Utd stay amid Galatasaray links – Source

    Casemiro is reportedly open to leaving Manchester United only if he is informed that he no longer has a future at the club, according to sources.

    Turkish side Galatasaray have expressed interest in acquiring the Brazilian midfielder on loan before the Turkish transfer window closes on September 13.

    However, Casemiro remains confident of his chances to feature regularly at Old Trafford this season, despite the club’s recent acquisition of Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain for £50 million ($65.8 million).

    Currently on a break during the international window, the 32-year-old is expected to return to United’s training ground next week as they prepare for a September 14 fixture against Southampton.

    His form has come under scrutiny following United’s recent 3-0 defeat to Liverpool, where he was substituted at halftime after two costly errors led to goals from Luis Díaz.

    Although United are reportedly willing to consider offers, manager Erik ten Hag and sporting director Dan Ashworth are wary of weakening the squad ahead of a busy schedule, with upcoming Carabao Cup and Europa League matches.

    The team will face seven matches in just three weeks following the break.

    Additionally, Casemiro’s high wages could be a stumbling block for potential suitors, including Galatasaray. The former Real Madrid star still has two years remaining on the contract he signed when he joined United in 2022.

  • Doping: Haaland, other dead players’ urine samples picked for testing by Norway’s anti-doping agency

    Doping: Haaland, other dead players’ urine samples picked for testing by Norway’s anti-doping agency

    Norway’s men’s football team recently had a routine visit from the country’s anti-doping agency, but what made this visit unusual was the list of players selected for testing.

    Among those required to give a urine sample was Manchester City star Erling Haaland. However, in an odd twist, the list also included two legendary Norwegian goal scorers, Jorgen Juve and Einar Gundersen—both of whom have long passed away.

    Juve died in 1983, and Gundersen in 1962.

    “We had a visit from Anti-Doping Norway [on Tuesday],” Norway manager Stale Solbakken said on Wednesday. “The following players were selected for testing: Erling Braut Haaland, Jørgen Strand Larsen, Antonio Nusa, Oscar Bobb, Einar Gundersen, and Jorgen Juve.

    “Then I start to wonder. These were the names that were read out, and it was serious. So we had to call Anti-Doping Norway and ask, ‘Is there a hidden camera?’ So Einar Gundersen and Jorgen Juve were summoned. It was a bit late. Negative tests on both of them.”

    Solbakken added: “They’ve probably taken the list of top scorers and added a few names.”

    While Haaland and Larsen were with the squad, Bobb, 21, wasn’t with the group, as he’s out injured for three months with a broken leg.

    And as for Gundersen and Juve, their place in Norwegian football history is assured. Juve scored 33 goals for Norway from 1928 to 1937, while Gundersen scored 26 goals from 1917 to 1928.

    “It’s hard to say what happened, but normally we hit the target better,” Anti-Doping Norway (ADNO) communications director, Halvor Byfuglien, told the VG newspaper.

    “All we can do now is admit we’re wrong. We can joke about it in the office today and then review our routines going forward.”

  • Blacks Stars-Angola match slated for 4pm today

    Blacks Stars-Angola match slated for 4pm today

    Black Stars face a significant challenge as they square off against Angola’s Black Sable Antelopes in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

    With three days of intense preparation behind them, Ghana is ready to take its first step towards ending a 42-year AFCON title drought.

    Led by coach Otto Addo, the team comes into this fixture riding high after crucial wins over Mali and the Central African Republic in June’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, which extended their unbeaten run.

    Addo, who took charge in March, aims to secure Ghana’s spot in what would be their 25th Africa Cup of Nations appearance, with hopes of surpassing the disappointing group-stage exits in the last two tournaments in Cameroon and Cote d’Ivoire.

    As Ghana looks to assert dominance in the group, they are keenly aware of Sudan’s recent 1-0 victory over Niger, sending a message that every point matters in these qualifiers.

    Head to Head

    Ghana have met Angola eight times in all competitions. The Black Stars appear to always have the advantage having won four, drawn three, and lost only once against Angola. Ghana’s last defeat dates back to 1997 when Fabrice Alcebiades scored in the first half to help Angola win at Estadio da Cidadela in Lunada.

    Aside from that, the Black Stars have been dominant against Angola, with one of their notable victories coming at the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations when they edged them ( Host Angola) in the quarterfinal through a sublime finish from Asamoah Gyan.

    Coach Otto Addo will have a full-strength squad at his disposal as Ghana prepares to face Angola in their opening 2025 AFCON qualifier. Key players like Arsenal’s Thomas Partey, who will serve as stand-in captain, West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus, Leicester City duo Jordan Ayew and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, AS Monaco’s Mohammed Salisu, Brighton’s Tariq Lamptey, and AFC Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo are all set to feature.

    Inaki Williams makes his return to the team after recovering from a lengthy two-month absence due to illness, though the Black Stars will be without several key figures due to injuries.

    Missing from the lineup are Alexander Djiku, Gideon Mensah, Abdul Salis Samed, Ernest Nuamah, Daniel Kofi Kyere, Kamal Deen Sulemana, and Ibrahim Sulemana.

    Angola, meanwhile, brings a formidable squad with a number of players competing in top European leagues. Among them are Serie A’s Zito Luvumbo of Cagliari, Depu from the Portuguese league, and Fredy and Manuel Benson, who play for Burnley in the Championship.

    La Liga’s Randy Nteka, who plays for Rayo Vallecano, and Lyon’s Clinton Mata round out Angola’s impressive lineup.

    Speaking ahead of the match, Coach Addo emphasized the quality of the Angolan side, highlighting their strong connection to Portugal’s league and urging his players to be prepared for a tough challenge.

    The crucial match will kick off at 16:00 GMT at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi on Thursday, September 5, 2024.

  • We can’t even produce common bicycle – Hassan Ayariga slams Ghanaian leaders

    We can’t even produce common bicycle – Hassan Ayariga slams Ghanaian leaders

    Founder of the All People’s Congress, Hassan Ayariga, has launched a scathing critique of Ghanaian leaders for neglecting industrialisation.

    He highlighted the nation’s inability to produce something as basic as a bicycle as a stark example of this failure.

    In a recent interview, Ayariga expressed his disappointment, calling the situation “shameful.”

    He attributed the problem to successive governments’ failure to harness the country’s technological and industrial potential effectively.

    “We are importing food every day. We are talking about not having jobs. Common bicycle, we don’t have a company that manufactures bicycles.

    In the 21st century, Ghanaians cannot manufacture a bicycle. It is a shame that in the 21st century, Ghanaians cannot manufacture bicycles,” he noted.

    Hassan Ayariga has also condemned Ghanaian leaders for their insufficient commitment to national development, particularly in the area of job creation.

    He contends that their neglect of industrial development and failure to capitalise on available opportunities have significantly contributed to the country’s unemployment issues.

    “When we are talking about jobs, there are millions of job opportunities out there, but because we are not committed to building our country. We are not dedicated to transforming our country, and then we are not training; the avenues are there,” he stated.

    He promised to implement apprenticeship programmes for uneducated citizens to enable them to acquire valuable skills, stressing the importance of reducing unemployment.

    “Those who want to be hairdressers will be trained to become hairdressers; those who want to be masons would be trained to become masons.

    Those who want to be carpenters would be trained to be carpenters, and everyone would be trained to get skills and intelligence to do something, and that is what makes the city vibrant,” he added.

  • Otto Addo knows what he wants; he is on a good journey – Partey praises coach

    Otto Addo knows what he wants; he is on a good journey – Partey praises coach

    Black Stars captain Thomas Partey has expressed full confidence in coach Otto Addo, praising him as a sharp tactician capable of leading Ghana to success.

    As the Black Stars prepare to face Angola in their opening game of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Partey shared his thoughts during a press conference.

    The 30-year-old lauded Addo’s meticulous approach and his skill in reading games, noting that his strategic insights make him stand out.

    Partey is firmly convinced that Otto Addo is on the path to becoming an elite coach, and Ghana will greatly benefit from his expertise.

    “He [Otto Addo] has his ideas, and he makes them very clear. He makes sure everyone knows what he wants to do, and he translates that to the players. The technical team is always ready to help him, so I think he is on a good journey.

    He is the one we have to look up to because he has experience, he has played in this team, and he knows everything around the team and what the team needs.

    We have to follow him because he has the best ideas,” Partey told SuperSport.

    Thomas Partey also assured the players’ readiness to do their best and win the game for Ghana.

    “I think it will be difficult games, but we have a good team.

    I have not watched our opponents, but we have played against them, and we know how difficult it is to play in Africa,” the 30-year-old told SuperSport.

    “I think we don’t have to be favourites but rather go out and show our quality, do our best, and try to win because all we need is to qualify. If we don’t win, we don’t get to qualify, so we have to go all out and win,” he added.

    Kick-off for the game against Angola is scheduled for 16:00 GMT.

  • Messi, Ronaldo miss out on Ballon d’Or nominations for the first time in over two decades

    Messi, Ronaldo miss out on Ballon d’Or nominations for the first time in over two decades

    For the first time since 2003, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo were excluded from the list of nominees for the Ballon d’Or, marking a significant shift in the football landscape.

    Both players have dominated the prestigious award for nearly two decades, with Messi holding a record eight wins and Ronaldo five.

    However, neither appeared among the 30 contenders announced on Wednesday for this year’s prize, which will be awarded on October 28.

    This year’s nominees include notable talents such as Vinicius Junior, Rodri, Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Harry Kane.

    Vinicius and Bellingham played pivotal roles in Real Madrid’s La Liga victory and their 16th Champions League title last season, while Haaland was the Premier League’s top scorer, and Kane achieved the same feat in the Bundesliga for Bayern Munich.

    Mbappé also completed a long-anticipated transfer to Real Madrid this summer after six seasons at PSG.

    Messi, currently recovering from an injury at Inter Miami, took home the Ballon d’Or last year. His first win came in 2009, kicking off a four-year streak of dominance, and his name first appeared on the nominee list in 2006.

    Ronaldo made his debut as a Ballon d’Or nominee in 2004. Together, they captured the award 13 times between 2008 and 2021, turning it into a two-man contest for most of their careers.

    On the women’s side, five players from the U.S. national team—Lindsey Horan, Alyssa Naeher, Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson—were nominated, following their triumph in the 2024 Olympic Games.

    Spain, despite finishing fourth at the Olympics, has five players nominated: Aitana Bonmatí, Mariona Caldentey, Patri Guijarro, Salma Paralluelo, and Alexia Putellas.

    Spanish players have won the Ballon d’Or Féminin for the past three years, with Bonmatí claiming it in 2023 and Putellas winning twice before that.

    England, the runner-up in the 2023 World Cup final, also boasts three nominees: Lauren Hemp, Lauren James, and Lucy Bronze.

  • Likely changes Otto Addo may make to Black Stars squad ahead of Angola clash

    Likely changes Otto Addo may make to Black Stars squad ahead of Angola clash

    Black Stars head coach Otto Addo is focused on maintaining Ghana’s momentum as they face Angola in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers today, September 5, 2024.

    He is expected to make key adjustments to the squad, possibly implementing up to five changes from the team that defeated the Central African Republic in June.

    Jordan Ayew, who started in that match, may begin on the bench this time due to his late arrival.

    Meanwhile, the team will be without Gideon Mensah, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Salis Samed, and Alexander Djiku, all of whom are unavailable.

    In their absence, players like Ebenezer Annan, Abdul Mumin, Majeed Ashimeru, Inaki Williams, and Antoine Semenyo are likely to step into the starting eleven.

    Otto Addo may opt for a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Lawrence Ati-Zigi guarding the net and a backline featuring Alidu Seidu, Mohammed Salisu, Abdul Mumin, and Ebenezer Annan.

    Thomas Partey and Majeed Ashimeru are expected to anchor the midfield, while Fatawu Issahaku and Inaki Williams could operate on the wings.

    Mohammed Kudus is poised to play as the attacking midfielder, supporting striker Antoine Semenyo, who will lead the charge upfront.

    The match is set to kick off at 16:00 GMT.

    Lineup in full

    Lawrence Ati-Zigi

    Alidu Seidu

    Mohammed Salisu

    Abdul Mumin

    Ebenezer Annan

    Majeed Ashimeru

    Thomas Partey

    Fatawu Issahaku

    Mohammed Kudus

    Joseph Painstil

    Antoine Semenyo

  • Kyei-Mensah wants Parliament to speed up on lithium agreement dealings

    Kyei-Mensah wants Parliament to speed up on lithium agreement dealings

    New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Suame, Mr. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has raised concerns about the delayed passage of Ghana’s lithium agreement, highlighting the potential risks as global demand for the resource continues to rise.

    During a recent parliamentary session, Mr. Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu underscored the finite nature of lithium resources, urging his fellow lawmakers to expedite the legislative process to prevent Ghana’s lithium assets from becoming stranded and losing their value.

    Speaking at a stakeholder forum in Parliament, the former Majority Leader stressed the critical importance of swiftly passing the agreement, emphasising that the timing is crucial given the soaring global demand for lithium, which is essential in the production of batteries for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems.

    He also cautioned that the window of opportunity to maximise the benefits from this valuable resource might be shorter than anticipated, urging immediate action to secure Ghana’s position in the rapidly growing global lithium market.

    too “We must declare in our minds that if we don’t take action, we may experience stranded assets in the not-too-distant future.

    As far as lithium is concerned, we should not think that it is an eternal resource. 

    “What is happening now, pretty soon, if we are not careful, may fall into the category of stranded assets.

    That is not to say that we should not approach it with some degree of caution,” he said. 

    The day’s stakeholder forum was organised by the Lands and Natural Resources Committee of Parliament. 

    It had stakeholders coming together to deliberate decisively on the subject. 

  • Parliament greenlights 250m dollars loan from World Bank

    Parliament greenlights 250m dollars loan from World Bank

    Parliament has sanctioned a $250 million loan from the World Bank to advance the Ghana Energy Sector Recovery Programme.

    Initially rejected before Parliament’s recess, the loan was a central factor in the emergency recall of Parliament for a two-day session.

    The funds are earmarked for stabilising and revitalising Ghana’s energy sector, tackling persistent financial issues, and ensuring a consistent electricity supply for households and businesses nationwide.

    During the debate, the Minority voiced significant concerns, particularly regarding a $90 million consultancy fee included in the loan agreement.

    They criticised the fee as excessive and called for a more thorough examination before approval.

    Despite these objections, the loan was ultimately approved.

    The majority underscored the critical need for the funding to address urgent energy sector challenges.

    They stressed that the recovery programme is vital for maintaining energy supply, reducing debt, and fostering economic growth.

  • Bagbin, Chief Justice exempted from using sirens motorcade in new traffic law

    Bagbin, Chief Justice exempted from using sirens motorcade in new traffic law

    Recent amendments to Ghana’s road traffic regulations have removed the Speaker of Parliament and the Chief Justice from the list of senior officials allowed to use sirens and motorcades for their official duties.

    Former Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu has criticized this decision, asserting that the Speaker of Parliament should still be granted these privileges.

    “Without personalising it, it is not Alban Bagbin. It is the Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, and he is not entitled to a motorcade or a police siren? In my view, Mr Speaker, it is wrong for the number three to be out of this privilege,” Mr. Iddrisu said.

    He also highlighted the exclusion of the Chief Justice, asserting: “The Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana is also out of the Motor Traffic Regulation and not entitled to it.

    Mr Speaker, you can keep a minister and member of parliament but this republic has four important personalities; the president, the vice president, the speaker, and the chief justice.”

    The Legislative Instrument (L.I.) in question had been previously withdrawn due to public criticism surrounding similar proposals affecting Members of Parliament (MPs).

    This renewed attention has generated concerns among lawmakers.

    Majority Leader Alexander Kwamina-Markin voiced his worries that the exclusion might impair MPs’ ability to fulfil their responsibilities effectively.

    “Politicians are always in a rush to save their heads when there is a crisis, but sometimes, we can have a collective fall. We know the challenges we face coming from home and going to our constituencies,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin said.

    He defended the use of sirens by MPs, arguing: “It is not that a Member of Parliament, by virtue of having a siren, will use it every day. We belittle ourselves. You are a politician and you cannot take public bashing and go and explain to the public?”

    In response, Speaker Alban Bagbin urged members of Parliament to assertively defend their positions.

    “Today, when you are talking about a major democracy and spineless Parliament, leadership matters. You must be prepared to take responsibility and defend your positions.

    If the people knew like you, they would not elect you to lead them, and so they expect you to lead them and be able to persuade them that you are doing so in their interest,” the Speaker said.

  • UCC Vice Chancellor appeals court’s injunction on his contract extension

    UCC Vice Chancellor appeals court’s injunction on his contract extension

    Lawyers representing Professor Johnson Nyarko-Boampong, Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast, have requested a stay of execution from the Cape Coast High Court.

    This move challenges a recent court order that granted an injunction against the Vice Chancellor.

    The stay of execution was filed shortly after the High Court, on September 4, 2024, approved an injunction requested by John Mevemeo, a resident of Millennium City-Kasoa.

    Mevemeo is contesting the university’s decision to extend Professor Nyarko-Boampong’s tenure until July 31, 2026, claiming that it contravenes the 1992 Constitution and should be invalidated.

    The Vice Chancellor’s legal team argues that the trial judge erred in granting the injunction. They assert that the judge overlooked several key issues, including:

    1. The plaintiff’s lack of legal standing concerning the contract between the University and the Vice Chancellor.
    2. The plaintiff’s failure to demonstrate any potential harm that would result from denying the injunction.
    3. The mootness of the application, given that Professor Nyarko-Boampong had already begun his renewed term prior to the injunction being issued.

    Based on these arguments, the lawyers are seeking to overturn the High Court’s decision from September 4, 2024.

  • Show some respect, let Ayew know his future with Black Stars – Awudu Issaka to Otto Addo

    Show some respect, let Ayew know his future with Black Stars – Awudu Issaka to Otto Addo

    Former Ghanaian youth star Awudu Isaka has called on Black Stars coach Otto Addo to engage in a discussion with team captain Andre Dede Ayew about his future with the national team.

    Isaka, who disagrees with Ayew’s recent exclusion from the squad, argues that the captain has earned his place and deserves more respect.

    He expressed his belief that Ayew could continue to play a valuable role by mentoring younger players, even though he acknowledges that age might have affected Ayew’s performance.

    In an interview with Angel TV, Isaka emphasised that Ayew’s experience and leadership are assets to the team and should be utilised effectively.

    “I think the coach should tell him that he won’t call him again. He should call him privately. He was expecting to be called but didn’t get an invitation, so he is okay.

    “He has paid his dues to Ghana, and we were all witnesses. Dede Ayew might have reached this stage, but he has the experience and knowledge to help the young players.

    Andre Ayew has now been left out of the Black Stars squad for the third consecutive time, with his last call-up occurring in late 2023.

    Coach Otto Addo has clarified that Ayew’s absence is part of a deliberate strategy to focus on developing a future-orientated team.

    The German-trained coach stressed that his current objective is to build a squad predominantly from younger players, which influenced his decision to exclude Ayew from the recent selection.

    “We are looking at the future or the long-term development; that’s mainly why we invited younger players and left out André Ayew.”

  • ‘And Ernest Nuamah cried’ – Find out the story behind his failed transfer to Fulham

    ‘And Ernest Nuamah cried’ – Find out the story behind his failed transfer to Fulham

    Leading French news outlet L’Equipe has shed light on the failed transfer of Ghanaian winger Ernest Nuamah from Olympique Lyon to English club Fulham, revealing a dramatic behind-the-scenes story.

    According to the report, Lyon pressured Nuamah to make the move to England, a decision he was strongly against. The situation reached a point where Nuamah, visibly distressed, broke down in tears during his medical examination.

    His emotional response was a clear indication of his reluctance to proceed with a transfer that conflicted with his personal and professional aspirations.

    On transfer deadline day, Nuamah found himself at the centre of a tug of war between English clubs Fulham and Everton.

    https://www.youtube.com/shorts/kK55gC3lOaI

    While the player had reportedly agreed to terms with Everton and was prepared to make the move, Lyon favoured a transfer to Fulham, having already reached a preliminary agreement with the London club for the talented Ghanaian forward.

    Despite Lyon’s preference, Nuamah resisted the move to Fulham, citing his love for Lyon and viewing the switch as a step backward in his career.

    Reports suggest that Nuamah even went so far as to abscond during the transfer process, leading both clubs to eventually abandon the deal.

    L’Equipe also reported that Lyon’s owner, John Textor, acknowledged the mishandling of the situation and later issued an apology to Nuamah for attempting to force the move.

    On the international front, Nuamah was notably left out of Ghana’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola and Niger.

  • Four Ghanaian officials start VAR course in Ivory Coast

    Four Ghanaian officials start VAR course in Ivory Coast

    Four Ghanaian officials are currently attending a groundbreaking Video Assistant Referee (VAR) course organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

    This course marks a significant milestone as it is CAF’s first-ever VAR training session specifically designed for regional zones, with the WAFU B zone taking the lead.

    The Ghanaian participants in this training include Rita Ama Nkansah Boateng, Julian Nii Akwa Nunoo, Emmanuella Aglago, and Alex Kotey.

    The course aims to enhance the quality of refereeing in the region by equipping these officials with the latest VAR techniques and practices.

    This initiative reflects the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) commitment to improving the standards of football officiating in the country and underscores Ghana’s active role in shaping the future of African football.

    As WAFU B pioneers this essential training, it sets a precedent for other zones to follow, ensuring a more consistent and reliable officiating framework across CAF competitions.

  • Police arrest Ecuadorian man for flying drone over Brazil training session

    Police arrest Ecuadorian man for flying drone over Brazil training session

    On Tuesday, Brazil’s military police detained three individuals for operating a drone over the Brazilian national team’s training session at CT do Caju in Curitiba, the training facility of first-division club Atlético Paranaense.

    The men, who are from Ecuador, Venezuela, and Brazil, were taken in for questioning.

    The authorities have not ruled out the possibility of espionage, although no formal arrests have been made at this time.

    “Initially [the accusation against the suspects] is of exposing others to a health risk or endangerment, but we will investigate whether they were not using this drone to illegally capture images to make some kind of sale or something like that,” Lt. Everton Taborda of the Curitiba MPs reported to have revealed.

    Taborda stated that the police have not yet been able to access the images captured by the drone or review the data stored on the seized computer.

    He also mentioned that no criminal charges will be filed against the drone’s owner unless Athletico-PR decides to lodge an official complaint.

  • Jack Grealish warned of probable jeers from Irish fans ahead of match in Dublin

    Jack Grealish warned of probable jeers from Irish fans ahead of match in Dublin

    Jack Grealish, who initially played for Ireland at the youth level before switching his allegiance to England, is expected to face a hostile reception from Irish fans during Saturday’s Nations League match in Dublin.

    Ireland striker Callum Robinson, who made the reverse switch from England’s youth teams to represent Ireland, acknowledged the likelihood of Grealish receiving some abuse from the home crowd.

    The Manchester City forward, who was initially left out of England’s Euro 2024 squad by former head coach Gareth Southgate, was recently recalled by interim manager Lee Carsley for the upcoming fixtures against Ireland and Finland.

    https://www.youtube.com/shorts/UlRZi1JmPFE?feature=share

    Despite the anticipated tough reception, Robinson believes the 28-year-old Grealish is prepared to handle the pressure.

    “I think he’ll be getting ready for a bit of abuse, but that’s part of it; it’s part of the game,” Robinson, Grealish’s former teammate at Aston Villa, said on Tuesday.

    “He’s old enough, and with being a senior player now, that stuff’s going to come.

    “I’d be surprised if he doesn’t because I think he gets booed anywhere he goes anyway, even in England.”

  • Leicester City wins in points deduction case over breach of PSR rules

    Leicester City wins in points deduction case over breach of PSR rules

    Leicester City has successfully appealed a ruling that could have resulted in a points deduction for an alleged violation of Premier League Profitability and Sustainability (PSR) rules, the club announced on Tuesday.

    The club, which recently returned to the Premier League after winning the Championship last season, based its appeal on the argument that the independent commission handling the case lacked jurisdiction. This argument was upheld by an independent appeal board.

    The decision hinged on the fact that Leicester’s accounting period ended on June 30, 2023—a time when the club was no longer a Premier League member, having been relegated to the Championship the previous month.

    Under the PSR rules, Premier League clubs are allowed to incur losses of up to £105 million ($137.56 million) over a three-year period. Last season, both Everton and Nottingham Forest were penalised with points deductions for exceeding this threshold.

    The appeals board determined that the alleged breach by Leicester could not have occurred before June 30, 2023, and that any financial losses may have been influenced by the club’s activities after it was no longer in the Premier League.


    “Leicester City welcomes the Appeal Board’s comprehensive decision, which supports our consistently stated position that any action against the Club should be pursued in accordance with the applicable rules,” the Foxes said in a statement.

    Leicester were first referred by the Premier League to the independent commission in March, and the commission dismissed the club’s first challenge to its jurisdiction to hear the case.

    The Premier League said they were surprised and disappointed by the decision announced on Tuesday.

    “The Appeal Board’s decision effectively means that, despite the club being a member of the League from Seasons 2019/20 to 2022/23, the League cannot take action against the club for exceeding the relevant PSR threshold in respect of the associated accounting periods,” the Premier League said in a statement.

    Leicester responded in their own press release, saying they wanted to avoid any misunderstandings that could arise in light of the Premier League’s statement in response to the appeal decision.

    “Leicester City wishes to emphasise the finding of the Appeal Panel that, when considering the wording which is actually used in the Premier League rules, the club did not breach the Premier League PSRs for the assessment period ending 30 June 2023,” read the release.

  • Man Utd now a laughing stock; Sack Ten Hag now! – Richard Keys to Sir Jim Ratcliffe, INEOS

    Man Utd now a laughing stock; Sack Ten Hag now! – Richard Keys to Sir Jim Ratcliffe, INEOS

    Manchester United have come under pressure to dismiss their “embarrassing” manager Erik ten Hag, who has been accused of turning the club into a “laughing stock.”

    After United’s dismal 3-0 defeat at home to Liverpool, despite spending around £200 million ($262 million) during the summer transfer window, beIN Sports pundit Richard Keys strongly criticised Ten Hag.

    He urged minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe to use the international break as an opportunity to sack the Dutch manager. However, Keys also questioned whether the club’s leadership has the “guts” to make such a bold move, especially after recently offering Ten Hag a new contract.

    United
    He wrote in his blog: “Your team was hopeless in both halves. How many times have I said he lives in a parallel universe? It’s embarrassing. Remember – this is Manchester United. I’d sack him now.

    No. I’d have sacked him in the summer. Maybe even before that. He’s not the right man to manage United. He’s reducing them to a laughing stock. ‘I’m not Harry Potter,’ he went on to tell reporters. He’s right. I’d say more Graham Potter.”

    Keys added: “If there had been any Utd fans left inside Old Trafford on the final whistle, surely they’d have let Ten Hag know how they were feeling?

    All you could hear were Liverpool supporters, who‘d enjoyed watching their team ram those daft words back down Ten Hag’s throat. I wonder if the clever people running United have got the balls to sack him during this break? Why not?”

    Following a victory over Fulham on the opening day, Manchester United have suffered two consecutive Premier League defeats, increasing the pressure on manager Erik ten Hag.

    The former Ajax coach has already clashed with journalists over his team’s performance. If results don’t improve soon, Ten Hag might be facing a potential job search in the near future.

    United’s upcoming fixtures include an early match against struggling Southampton on September 14, followed by their Carabao Cup debut against League One’s Barnsley three days later.

  • Ronaldo goes after Man Utd again for ‘sour’ treatment at the club

    Ronaldo goes after Man Utd again for ‘sour’ treatment at the club

    Former Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo has once again criticised the Red Devils while discussing his future with the Portuguese national team.

    Ronaldo, who made a highly anticipated return to Manchester United in the summer of 2021, enjoyed a strong first season back at Old Trafford.

    However, his second season was marred by a series of underwhelming performances, leading manager Erik ten Hag to bench the veteran striker.

    Frustrated with his reduced role, Ronaldo publicly criticised both the club and Ten Hag in a controversial interview, which ultimately resulted in the termination of his contract.

    Now, as he reflects on his future with Portugal, Ronaldo has taken another opportunity to express his discontent with his former club.

    Speaking to A Bola, Ronaldo responded to questions about whether he’s ready to represent the national team as a substitute: “In my mind, I’ll always be a starter. That’s what you think. Until the end of my career, I’ll always think that I’ll be a starter.

    “I’ll always respect the decisions, not just of the coach, but at the clubs I’ve played for, I’ve always respected them… once or twice, they’ve also behaved badly towards me (laughs). But seriously, whenever there’s professional ethics, I’ll always respect the coaches’ decisions.

    “When professional ethics are not respected, there can always be controversy, but that is separate.

    What I feel at the moment, and the coach’s words also demonstrate this, is that I continue to be an asset to the national team, and I will be the first to admit it. If that does not happen, if I am not an asset, I will be the first to leave.

    “But if I leave, I will go with a clear conscience, as always, because I know who I am, what I can do, what I do and what I will continue to do.

    I see the present in a very positive way because for me the most important thing is to face each moment, each cycle, and the cycle is good; I feel happy.”

    Ronaldo has received a lot of flak for his role in Portugal’s underperformance in both Euro 2024 and World Cup 2022.

    The former Real Madrid star was pushed off to the bench in Qatar by Fernando Santos; however, the head coach was replaced by Roberto Martinez, who has stuck with Ronaldo in the national team despite his struggles on the field.

    Ronaldo failed to score a single goal in Germany earlier this year, but Martinez has revealed that the 38-year-old will remain a starter for the future.

    The 39-year-old forward will now join the Portuguese national team squad for their Nations League clashes against Croatia and Scotland before he returns to Saudi Arabia.

  • Vini Jr. calls for Spain’s 2030 World Cup hosting rights to be revoked due to racism issues

    Vini Jr. calls for Spain’s 2030 World Cup hosting rights to be revoked due to racism issues

    Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior has called for Spain to be stripped of its hosting rights for the 2030 World Cup if the country fails to address the ongoing issue of racist abuse.

    The Brazilian forward has been the target of racial slurs on multiple occasions since joining Real Madrid.

    Although Spanish authorities have made arrests in some cases to set an example, Vinicius believes that these efforts are insufficient to eradicate the deep-seated problem.

    In response to the rising number of racist incidents in football, UEFA introduced a three-step protocol in 2019 to aid referees in managing such behaviour in the stands.

    The first step involves pausing the match and issuing a public address announcement, urging fans to cease their offensive conduct.

    If the abuse persists, the second step is to suspend the game for up to 10 minutes, with players retreating to the locker rooms. Should the racist behaviour continue, the final measure is to abandon the match entirely.

    Despite these measures, racist incidents have not been eradicated, prompting Vinicius to question whether Spain is truly fit to co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside Morocco and Portugal.

    He argues that unless significant action is taken to combat racism, Spain should be reconsidered as a host nation for the tournament.

    In an interview with CNN, Vinicius said: “I hope Spain can evolve and understand the seriousness of insulting someone because of their skin colour.

    Because if things don’t evolve by 2030, I think (the World Cup) will have to change location, because if players don’t feel comfortable and confident playing in a country where they can suffer racism, it’s very complicated.

    “I believe and I want to do everything so that things can change because many people in Spain, the majority, are not racist, although there is a small group that ends up affecting the image of a country where people live very well.”


    In October 2023, Vinicius took the issue to court, presenting evidence and testifying about the racist insults he endured during a match against Valencia.

    Reflecting on that experience, he said: “In the case of what happened in Valencia, after the game—after we thought about it—everyone said the right thing to do is to leave the pitch, but as you are there defending a team, we know that not everyone in the stadium is racist and was just there to watch the game.”


    Vinicius Junior     has issued a stern warning that Real Madrid will walk off the pitch if he experiences any form of racist abuse during future matches.

    The Brazilian star, who has faced repeated racial slurs throughout his time in Spain, is taking a firm stand against such behaviour.

    Vinicius has now rejoined the Brazilian national team for the international break and is set to play in their upcoming matches against Ecuador and Paraguay on September 6 and 10, respectively.

  • Galatasaray sets eye on Man Utd’s Casemiro – Source

    Galatasaray sets eye on Man Utd’s Casemiro – Source

    Galatasaray are reportedly eyeing Manchester United midfielder Casemiro as a potential transfer target, according to sources.

    The Turkish giants are actively searching for a midfielder and have identified the Brazilian as a key option on their shortlist.

    With the Turkish transfer window remaining open until September 13, Galatasaray still has time to finalise their summer business.

    Casemiro’s future at Manchester United is currently uncertain, especially after a disappointing performance in the recent 3-0 loss to Liverpool.

    The 32-year-old was substituted at halftime following two costly mistakes that led to Liverpool’s first two goals, both scored by Luis Díaz.

    His role in Erik ten Hag’s starting lineup is also under scrutiny with the arrival of Manuel Ugarte.

    The Uruguayan midfielder, who joined United on deadline day from Paris Saint-Germain in a £50 million ($66 million) deal, missed the Liverpool match due to registration issues but could make his debut against Southampton on September 14.

    Casemiro, who signed for Manchester United from Real Madrid in a £60 million move in 2022, still has two years left on his contract at Old Trafford.

    However, his hefty wages of over £300,000 per week could pose a significant challenge for Galatasaray.

    The Turkish club may explore a loan deal, potentially contingent on United’s willingness to cover part of his salary.

    Galatasaray, the reigning Turkish champions, have already made waves in the transfer market by securing a surprise loan deal for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.

    Manchester United, meanwhile, are looking to trim their wage bill, having already parted ways with high earners such as Cristiano Ronaldo, David de Gea, Anthony Martial, Raphaël Varane, and Jadon Sancho.

    Despite being open to offers for Casemiro throughout the summer, anticipated interest from the Saudi Pro League failed to materialize.

  • Ângelo Gabriel departs for Saudi Arabia just a year after his Chelsea move

    Ângelo Gabriel departs for Saudi Arabia just a year after his Chelsea move

    The unexpected career trajectory of Brazilian teenager Ângelo Gabriel took another turn as he finalised a $25 million transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr on Tuesday, just a year after joining Chelsea from Santos.

    Despite signing with Chelsea for $17 million, Gabriel never played for the English club, instead spending the past year on loan at Strasbourg, one of the clubs owned by Chelsea’s American investors.

    The 19-year-old was part of Chelsea’s preseason squad during their U.S. tour but has now permanently moved to Al Nassr, where he will team up with Cristiano Ronaldo.

    This transfer, announced a day after the Saudi transfer window closed, will assist Chelsea in complying with financial regulations in the Premier League and UEFA competitions.

    Another Brazilian teenager, Deivid Washington, also joined Chelsea from Santos last year around the same time as Gabriel.

    Although Washington was close to a permanent move to Strasbourg, sources informed ESPN that Chelsea called off the transfer due to concerns about its compliance with competition rules.

    “We wish Angelo the very best as he begins the next chapter in his career and thank him for his efforts during his time with Chelsea,” the Premier League club said in a statement.

    Gabriel became the youngest player in the history of Brazil’s national championship at the time when he made his senior debut for Santos at 15 years, 308 days.

  • Man City’s defender Joško Gvardiol names Kudus as his toughest opponent

    Man City’s defender Joško Gvardiol names Kudus as his toughest opponent

    Manchester City defender Joško Gvardiol has shared his thoughts on facing Ghanaian forward Mohammed Kudus, praising the West Ham star’s potential to become a global football sensation.

    In an interview with Manchester City’s media team, Gvardiol reflected on his first season in the Premier League and singled out Kudus as one of the standout opponents.

    He recalled their initial meeting on September 16, 2023, when Kudus came on as a substitute and immediately made an impact.

    Gvardiol noted that even in the short time Kudus was on the field, he proved to be a formidable challenge, impressing with his speed and skill.

    Looking back on their most recent encounter, which concluded the 2023/2024 season, Gvardiol reiterated his admiration for Kudus’s talent and potential.

    “Mohammed Kudus from West Ham was my toughest opponent. In the first game, he was on the bench, and when he came on for the last twenty minutes, he was on my side.

    “I realised that he was quite good. He looks sharp and was good on the ball. In the second game of the season, he even scored a bicycle kick. He was the one I struggled against,” he said.

    The Croatian defender extended his best wishes to Kudus for the 2024/2025 season, expressing hope that the Ghanaian forward will solidify his place among the world’s top players.

    “I think he is the one who deserves attention, and I believe this season he’s going to come out and show his quality,” he said.

    Kudus enjoyed a stellar debut season in England, hitting 14 goals and six assists across all competitions.