Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee has reportedly chosen his desired shirt number at Manchester United ahead of his anticipated transfer to Old Trafford.
United have been in search of an additional forward to support Rasmus Hojlund, and it appears they have found their candidate in Zirkzee.
Standing at 6’4″, Zirkzee aims to contribute significantly to Erik ten Hag’s squad, helping them climb the Premier League table and compete for top honors.
🚨🔴 Joshua #Zirkzee, he is already on-site and undergoing his medical with @ManUtd / #MUFC ✔️
If everything goes well, he is expected to sign his contract until 2029 + 1 today and the deal will be announced. Understand, the 23 y/o is very proud to join ManUtd.
Zirkzee’s professional journey began at Bayern Munich, where he struggled to secure regular playing time. He experienced loan spells at Parma and Anderlecht before making a permanent move to Bologna in 2022.
During his time with Bologna, he has netted 14 goals and provided nine assists in 58 appearances.
Should this transfer materialize, Zirkzee will soon be introduced as a United player. Following theNetherlands’ exit from Euro 2024, he will take a brief summer break before joining the Red Devils for pre-season preparations.
Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta believes that Nico Williamscould elevate the club to a new level. Amid reports that Barcelona has reached a preliminary agreement to sign Williams, Iniesta expressed his support for the potential addition.
He noted that Williams would be a great fit for the Catalan team, which failed to secure a trophy last season.
However, Iniesta remains uncertain if the deal will ultimately be finalized.
“The level he’s showing is in line with the national team,” he told Mundo Deportivo. “We’re talking about Nico [Williams] or Lamine [Yamal], but you could also talk about Fabián [Ruiz], Rodri, Dani Olmo… anyone.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/qLBbKTO80fE
Nico Williams has also had a fantastic season at his club, he’s a name that will surely be heard by the big teams. His signing for Barca would give the club another level, but we’ll see what happens.”
Despite Barcelona’s well-documented financial issues, the club is pushing forward in their pursuit of the 22-year-old Williams. Last season, Williams impressed with eight goals and 19 assists across all competitions, securing him a starting spot at the Euros.
His performance has continued to shine, with a goal and an assist in Spain’s run to the Euro 2024 final in Germany. This has attracted interest not only from Barcelona but also from Arsenal, Chelsea, and other top clubs.
If Barcelona managed to secure Williams, it would send a strong message about their ambitions. As speculation about his future grows, prompting his current club to criticize the constant questioning, Williams is focusing on Spain’s upcoming Euro 2024 final against England on Sunday.
Mario Balotelli is reportedly in negotiations for a surprising transfer to Brazilian club Corinthians, although his salary expectations could pose a significant obstacle.
According to UOL, discussions are ongoing between Balotelli and Corinthians regarding a move from his current club, Adana Demirspor, in Turkey. The 33-year-old striker is seeking a salary of £4 million per season, or approximately £75,000 per week.
Despite his current team having the option to extend his contract for another year, Adana Demirspor has not yet exercised this option, even though Balotelli scored seven goals in 16 appearances last season.
Corinthians, who recently appointed Ramon Diaz as their new manager, are waiting for his approval before proceeding with the potential deal for Balotelli.
The striker’s agents have been in talks with the Brazilian club for several weeks.
Balotelli’s career has been notable for its achievements, including three Serie A titles, the Coppa Italia, and the Champions League with Inter Milan. Additionally, he won the Premier League and FA Cup during his tenure at Manchester City.
Williams has emerged as a standout performer at Euro 2024 alongside his Spain teammate Lamine Yamal, attracting interest from several clubs, with Barcelona leading the pack.
Despite repeatedly stating his commitment to the Athletic Club until summer 2027, Williams has faced numerous inquiries from the media regarding his plans.
In response to the persistent queries, Athletic Club’s president Jon Uriarte has issued a statement addressing the intense scrutiny surrounding Williams’ future.
The statement from Uriarte was released on Athletic’s social media. It read: “Nico, a footballer very committed to the Athletic Club, has been subjected to a bombardment of questions about his future in an excessive and uncontrolled way when he is concentrating on competing in the Eurocopa for the Spanish Football Federation, which he has not been able to protect.
“Respect between all the characters that make up football is a fundamental basis, or so we conceive it from the Athletic Club, which does not have the formula to submit to public pressure players with contracts in other clubs to try to incorporate them.
“Athletic aspires to the maximum, without limits. We are demonstrating that we have an attractive and winning project for our football players and trainers. The proof is that we have recently renewed two of our internationals, Simón (2029) and Vivian (2031).
Nico signed last year until 2027, and he also committed himself there during several seasons to coveted players like Sancet, Prados, Julen Agirrezabala, and Paredes, to give some examples.
“The Athletic Club is capable economically, socially and sportingly of maintaining in its structure footballers of the size of those named, including Nico Williams.”
Barcelona has identified a left-winger and a midfielder as their top targets for this summer transfer window. President Joan Laporta has already publicly acknowledged their interest in Nico Williams, signalling him as a likely addition for Hansi Flick’s inaugural season at the club.
Laporta emphasised that Barcelona has streamlined its financial framework to facilitate Williams’ potential signing this summer.
However, Williams’ immediate focus remains on preparing forSpain’s Euro 2024 final against Englandat the Olympastadion in Berlin on Sunday, July 14. The 21-year-old winger will only contemplate his club’s future after this crucial match.
Former Regional Chairman of the NDC, Bernard Allotey Jacobs, now turned ‘NPP faithful’, has risen to the defence of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) running mate, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO)for his ‘not even your Nkrumah’ comments.
The former energy minister, during his grand unveiling at the Jubilee Park in Kumasi on July 9, 2024, taunted the Akufo-Addo-led government as the best and one that has protected and developed Ghana more than any other president, including Dr Kwame Nkrumah.
During his speech, NAPO boldly stated, “Since independence from 1957 until today, we’ve not had any president that has helped Ghana like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
I say from 1957 until today, you can bring your Kwame Nkrumah… No president has protected Ghana and moved the country forward like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.”
He faced heavy backlash and criticism for his ‘derogatory and disrespectful’ remarks about the former president.
However, Allotey Jacobs sees nothing wrong with NAPO’s comments. On his part, the NPP running mate spoke based on his ideology and a reaction to the NDC recently posing as the new Convention People’s Party.
H said NAPO was right.
“NAPO was speaking like a typical Domo person. The word is “their Kwame Nkrumah.”. Analytically, what he said was right, because if you look at the works of Akufo-Addo, the same thing they subjected Nkrumah to is exactly the same thing they have subjected Akufo-Addo to.
He’s done so well and we all can see except NPP members are unable to project well what their eight-year-old president has done. Look glaringly, you see it,” he said during a panel discussion on Kwame Sefa Kayi’sKokrokoo Morning Show on July 10, 2024, on Peace FM.
Since 2021, Ghana Armed Forces (GAF)have reported around 1,300 cases of mental health disorders each year, post-COVID-19.
According to graphic.com.gh, the data highlights a significant prevalence of alcohol use disorder, affecting 70 percent of male officers among these cases.
Major General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), shared these concerning statistics. He has instructed the GAF’s Department of Medical Services to launch an intensive campaign aimed at reducing mental health issues within the military forces.
“Mental health cases in the Ghana Armed Forces have risen since 2017, culminating in 614 recorded cases by the end of 2019 for both males and females. Post-COVID-19 statistics show a significant increase, with an average of about 1,300 cases each year from 2021 to 2023, with 70 percent being males,” Maj. Gen. Oppong-Peprah stated.
He expressed particular concern over the high prevalence of alcohol use disorder, which topped the list of mental health issues, while addressing a conference marking the conclusion of the inaugural GAF Men’s Mental Health Awareness Week in Accra.
The conference, themed “Promoting the Mental Health of Men in a Gender Sensitive Armed Forces,” highlighted the severe impact of mental health issues, which are often overlooked within the army despite their devastating effects.
Maj. Gen. Oppong-Peprah emphasised that the stigma surrounding mental health leads to far-reaching detrimental impacts, causing many to develop suicidal tendencies.
The reluctance of affected officers to seek help sometimes results in actual suicide.
Globally, men are more than twice as likely to die by suicide than women, according to the World Health Organisation.
Despite the high rate of suicides among men, reported cases of depression—a significant risk factor for suicide—are lower among men, a disparity attributed to societal gender roles.
“A lot of responsibilities placed on men result in excessive pressure,” Maj. Gen. Oppong-Peprah noted.
He urged the GAF personnel to support one another, speak out, and express their emotions freely to combat stigmatization and promote mental well-being.
“Let us all strive to avoid substance abuse, excessive alcohol, gambling, and unnecessary spending, and organise our finances to live healthier lives going forward,” the CDS advised.
Anita Paddy, a senior clinical health psychologist at the Therapy and Wellness Department of the 37 Military Hospital, pointed out that globally, one out of every four individuals encounters mental health challenges at some stage in their lives.
According to the report, she noted that 450 million people worldwide are affected by mental health conditions, yet only one-third of them actively seek assistance.
Paddy underscored the significance of adopting a healthy lifestyle, which includes maintaining good eating habits and ensuring adequate rest, to promote mental well-being.
Additionally, she highlighted the importance of engaging in hobbies and recreational activities as essential for maintaining mental health and encouraged personnel to openly discuss their emotions with colleagues or seek professional guidance to prevent detrimental behaviors.
Presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has criticized John Dramani Mahama, his counterpart from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), for refusing to participate in a debate with him.
In response, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, spokesperson for the John Mahama Campaign Team, stated that there is no necessity for a debate between Mahama and Bawumia.
Speaking to supporters during the second leg of his nationwide campaign in Nalerigu on Thursday, July 11, Dr. Bawumia accused Mahama of evading the debate, alleging that he would expose Mahama’s impractical promises and confidently defeat him.
He labelled Mahama as “empty as an empty barrel”.
“I’m looking forward to a debate with John Mahama on the economy, the governance, the country, but I’m afraid he’s running away from a debate. Isn’t it? His people are saying he doesn’t want to debate, he doesn’t want to debate because he knows I will expose the emptiness of his policies, he says he has a 24- economy that he cannot explain.”
“He’s as empty as an empty barrel. He cannot explain it,none of his people can explain it. They say they will be exporting lions and elephants. But when we meet man-to-man, we can debate, and the country will see where our policies lie.
And that is where we should go. We should give the country an opportunity to listen to us. But if he refuses, I will continue to sell my policies to the country, and they will take a decision.”
The speech of Dr Bawumia’s running mate,Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh,popularly referred to as NAPO’s, during his grand unveiling in Kumasi on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, appeared to have incurred the wrath of many, including celebrities, netizens and journalists such as Manasseh Azure.
In a tweet shared by the investigative journalist on July 10, 2024, Manasseh descried the mannerisms of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) running mate as “more of a Kejetia market preacher than that of a running mate.”
As a student of communication studies, I saw his body language as more of a Kejetia market preacher than that of a running mate.
— Manasseh Azure Awuni (@Manasseh_Azure) July 10, 2024
This comes after the former energy minister taunted the Akufo-Addo-led government as the best and one that has protected and developed Ghana more than any other president since independence, adding a controversial statement: “not even your Nkrumah.”
During his speech, NAPO boldly stated, “Since independence from 1957 until today, we’ve not had any president that has helped Ghana like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
I say from 1957 until today, you can bring your Kwame Nkrumah… No president has protected Ghana and moved the country forward like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.”
This statement sparked widespread reactions, with several members of the public expressing outrage and disbelief since they consider it an insult to the memory of the great statesman.
Meanwhile, following this statement, the Convention People’s Party (CPP) issued a statement calling for the immediate resignation of the NPP running mate for his degrading and disrespectful statement towards Dr Kwame Nkrumah. many, including
President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has urged the Attorney General (AG) to expedite proceedings in the Ahmed Suale case, which has faced delays over the years.
“We also wish to use this platform to appeal to the Attorney General to start expediting action on the Ahmed Suale murder case, a single issue that keeps affecting the position of the media on the Word Press Freedom Index” the president appealed.
Ahmed Suale,who worked as an investigative journalist with Tiger Eye Private Investigations, a team led by renowned journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas Suale was tragically murdered on January 16, 2019
He was shot three times, twice in the chest and one in the neck by unidentified assailants while driving in his car in Madina-Accra.
This appeal follows a recent attack on three journalists, prompting a media blackout on certain political figures, including Fisheries Minister, Hawa Koomson.
The incident that triggered this response involved the assault of David Kobbena, a journalist from Cape FM, by individuals allegedly linked to Koomson. Kobbena was attacked at the Central Regional Coordinating Council while covering a political event.
He was mistaken for another journalist who had allegedly insulted Koomson on a TV panel. Despite showing his press card to clarify his identity, he was physically assaulted by a group of about fifteen individuals.
Following this incident, the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) declared a media blackout on Hawa Koomson, urging all media houses to avoid covering her activities.
Consequently, speaking at GJA’s 75th Anniversary Lecture in Ho, yesterday, July 11 Mr. Dwumfour asserted that the association will continue to pressure state authorities to secure justice for Ahmed Suale.
“In 2024 alone, the GJA imposed a media blackout on key state personalities due to attacks on three journalists while they were on duty. Let me use this anniversary lecture to call on the government and authority to intensify its collaboration with the GJA in ensuring the safety and security of journalists in Ghana
“Five years have passed since the murder of the investigative journalist, yet there appears to be no progress. As an association, we shall continue to put pressure on state authorities to demand justice for Ahmed Suale” he added.
The GJA president highlighted the importance of public support for the media and encouraged anyone with information regarding the Ahmed Suale case to assist the police investigation.
“I also want to urge anyone with information about those responsible for this matter to help the police investigate this case. The media cannot thrive without the support of the public. As a result, we call for collaboration in this regard as we work to address our developmental challenges.”
Jurgen Klopp reportedlydeclined an offer from U.S. Soccer, which is in the process of finding a new head coach for the U.S. men’s national team.
This follows the dismissal of former head coach Gregg Berhalter. U.S. Soccer, which has a connection to Klopp through USWNT coach Emma Hayes, reached out to Klopp to explore his interest in the role.
According to The Athletic, Klopp rejected the approach, emphasizing his desire to take a break from football after leaving Liverpool earlier this year due to burnout and low energy levels.
Despite his refusal, U.S. Soccer remains interested in the possibility of securing the German coach for the position.
After finishing the Premier League season with Liverpool, Klopp has been enjoying a restful summer, taking time off from the sport.
“It is that I am running out of energy,” he said in January. “I have no problem now, obviously, I knew it already for longer that I will have to announce it at one point, but I am absolutely fine now. I know that I cannot do the job again and again and again and again.”
While Klopp is a prominent name on the USMNT’s potential coaching list, he is not the only candidate being considered. The federation’s search for a new head coach is in its early stages. The national team decided to make a change following their poor performance at the Copa America, where they, as the tournament hosts, were eliminated in the group stage.
U.S. Soccer sporting director Matt Crocker says the federation hopes to have a coach appointed by September when the U.S. will play a pair of friendlies. They’ll face Canada on September 7 in the first of those friendlies before hosting New Zealand three days later.
Another attempt to break the Guinness World Record (GWR) is currently underway as Ghanaian professional dancer Fredrick Boakye embarks on the longest dancing marathon by an individual.
In a video shared by X (formerly Twitter) user @eddie_wrt captures a man clad in a white kaftan, waving his handkerchief and dancing to gospel musician Mavis Asante’s ‘Obaatan” song.
Situated at the Kaahu-Obomeng Social Centre, Frederick aims to dance for 7 days starting today, July 11–July 18, 2024.
“Ghanaian professional dancer Boakye Fredrick has today begun his longest dancing marathon as an individual (Danceathon) at the Kwahu-Obomeng Social Centre.
He aims to dance for one whole week from July 11th to July 18th, 2024, in order to become a Guinness World Record holder” the tweet’s caption read.
Ghanaian professional dancer Boakye Fredrick has today begun his longest dancing marathon by an individual (Danceathon) at the Kwahu-Obomeng Social Center. He aims at dancing for one whole week from July 11th to July 18th, 2024, in order to become a Guinness World Record holder. pic.twitter.com/tJCVaagZmh
Frederick is not the only Ghanaian who has attempted to break a World Record following Nigeria’s Hilda Baci’s cooking-marathon.
Afua Asantewaa in December last year embarked on a singing marathon but was later disqualified, following Chef Faila among other Ghanaians.
The very recent cooking marathon was that of Chef Smith, who aimed to set a new world record for the longest cooking marathon.
He claimed to have achieved an astounding 802 hours and 25 minutes, surpassing the previous record holder, Irish King Alan Fisher. However, it turns out that Chef Smith’s assertions were fraudulent.
GWR disassociated themselves from his fake certificate and fabricated congratulatory email claiming to be the new record holder of the longest cooking marathon.
Kenya’s President William Ruto has terminated the appointments of all his ministers and the attorney-general with immediate effect following recent deadly protests that led to the retraction of an unpopular tax bill. Ruto stated that the decision was made after “reflection, listening to Kenyans, and a thorough assessment of my cabinet.”
He indicated plans to consult widely to form a broad-based government. The deputy president, who cannot legally be dismissed, and the prime cabinet secretary, who also serves as the foreign affairs minister, remain unaffected by the cabinet dissolution.
President Ruto assured that government functions would continue seamlessly under the management of senior civil servants. He also mentioned that he would consult “across different sectors and political groups, as well as with other Kenyans in both the public and private sectors” to establish a new government, but did not specify a timeline for the announcement.
The dramatic move is highly unusual, coming less than two years after he took office.
Three of the sacked ministers were MPs before leaving their legislative roles to join the cabinet barely two years ago. One of them is Aden Duale, who in a prompt post on X (formerly Twitter) thanked the president and said he would “forever be indebted to him and the people of Kenya for this opportunity to serve” as Kenya’s defence minister.
Last Thursday, President Ruto chaired a cabinet meeting, which one of the local newspapers described as the “last supper” for the ministers.
Several ministers were implicated in corruption scandals, resulting in the suspension of senior officials within various ministries. However, President Ruto defended the ministers, stating there was no evidence to warrant their dismissal.
In October, President Ruto carried out a minor cabinet reshuffle, affecting at least eight ministers. The last instance of a complete cabinet dissolution was in 2005 when President Mwai Kibaki did so after losing a referendum on a new constitution.
Ruto has faced mounting pressure from Kenyans, who have continued to hold anti-government protests, demanding greater accountability. Despite agreeing to retract his controversial tax hikes, some protesters have called for his resignation.
In response to public outcry, Ruto announced several austerity measures across government agencies last week. He also imposed a freeze on proposed salary increases for cabinet members and parliamentarians.
Manchester United are undergoing significant changes in their medical and coaching staff as part of a comprehensive restructuring led by INEOS.
According to reports from The Daily Mail, the club is set to part ways with two longstanding first-team physios, Richard Merron and John Davin.
Merron, who has been with Manchester United for 23 years and served as a first-team physio since 2017, and Davin, a fixture in the medical staff since June 1997, will be departing as part of efforts to overhaul the medical department.
The restructuring is being spearheaded by Gary O’Driscoll, who joined Arsenal last September as head of sports medicine. O’Driscoll has been instrumental in reshaping the medical team, including bringing in Jordan Reece from Arsenal to replace Robin Sadler as head of physio.
Additionally, Ibrahim Keren has moved from the women’s team to a significant role with the first team, while Neil Hough has left his position in the academy.
O’Driscoll’s tenure has prioritised addressing the fitness challenges that Manchester United faced last season, during which the team grappled with nearly 70 separate cases of injury or illness.
The departure of Merron and Davin is seen as part of a broader strategy to bolster the club’s sports medicine capabilities, rather than an indictment of their individual performances.
On the coaching front, new assistants Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake, along with goalkeeper coach Jelle ten Rouwelaar, have joined Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff.
This marks the beginning of a new era as the team prepares for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, Mitchell van der Gaag and goalkeeper coach Richard Hartis are among those leaving, while Steve McClaren is expected to assume a new role within the coaching setup.
As the restructuring continues, INEOS aims to establish a sustainable framework for success, blending tradition with modernization to propel Manchester United to new heights in both domestic and European football.
Further announcements regarding personnel changes and operational adjustments are anticipated throughout the 2024-25 campaign.
James Rodriguez delivered an impassioned speech after surpassing Lionel Messi’s record and guiding Colombia to the 2024 Copa America final.
The former Real Madrid star, now playing for Sao Paulo in Brazil, has been a pivotal figure for his national team since his debut in 2011, accumulating over 100 caps while maintaining his creative prowess at the age of 32.
James is currently participating in his fourth Copa America, debuting in the tournament in 2015, and has now become the top assist provider in a single edition of the competition. This record dates back to 2011, when records were first officially kept.
James Rodríguez's is the first player on record (since 2011) with six assists in a single edition of a Copa America, surpassing Lionel Messi (five assists in 2021).#URUCOL#CopaAmericapic.twitter.com/MHDxmPyv28
Messi had previously set the benchmark with five assists in 2021, leading Argentina to a continental triumph, but James has surpassed that with six assists in 2024. His contributions have set up a final showdown against the reigning World Cup champions.
James told TyC Sports after teeing up Jefferson Lerma’s match-winning goal in a chaotic semi-final showdown with Uruguay: “We had an excellent game. The referee was not good. The boys who defended did well.
The game was very complicated, against a very tough opponent, but we won a well-deserved place in the final. I’ve been here for almost 13 years, wanting this. We’re happy.”
James has registeredsix assists through five games, while also finding the target himself from the penalty spot in a crushing 5-0 quarter-final win over Panama. He is now captain of his nation, with vast experience being put to good use.
Luis Suarez criticized the Colombian players following a heated Copa America semi-final clash against Uruguay. Colombia clinched a narrow win with Jefferson Lerma’s 39th-minute goal.
However, tensions erupted at the final whistle, leading to chaos on the field involving players, referees, camera crews, and officials. Suarez was seen confronting and pushing Colombian players and staff members amid the commotion.
Darwin Nunez, meanwhile, climbed into the stands to face Colombian fans post-game. Shirtless and visibly furious, Nunez exchanged punches and defended himself as drinks were thrown at him. After the match, Suarez spoke to the media, voicing his frustration over the chaotic aftermath.
“What bothers me the most is the way they mock,” Suarez stated. “There are always clashes, laughs, words, whatever. But what bothers me the most is the way they mock and celebrate, it makes no sense. We eliminated Brazil and none of us walked past any Brazilian player. On the contrary, we went to greet them.
We’re colleagues on the field; we know the suffering of a defeat. Walking past a fellow professional like that looks bad, but the one above sees everything and everything comes back. As a group, we need to rise, stay strong, and stay united. We will often face situations like this”.
CONMEBOL has released a statement condemning the post-game violence, though the actions to be taken are yet unclear.
In the wake of Colombia’s triumph, anticipation builds for an electrifying Copa America final againstArgentina, led by Lionel Messi. The upcoming match is poised to be a gripping showdown, with both sides determined to claim the prestigious trophy.
Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman expressed strong disapproval of the video assistant referees (VAR) system, accusing it of “breaking football” after a controversial penalty decision in England’s favor during the Euro 2024 semi-final on Wednesday.
The Dutch team initially led with a powerful goal from Xavi Simons. However, England was given a chance to equalize when Harry Kane was fouled by Denzel Dumfries after missing a shot.
Initially, no penalty was awarded, but referee Felix Zwayer, upon advice from the VAR, reviewed the incident on the monitor and subsequently pointed to the spot.
Kane successfully converted the penalty, and substitute Ollie Watkins scored a decisive goal in the 90th minute, securing England’s spot in Sunday’s final against Spain.
“In my opinion, it should not have been a penalty,” said Koeman.
“He kicked the ball and the boots touched. I think that we cannot play properly and this is due to VAR. It really breaks football.”
Former England defender and ITV pundit Gary Neville felt the Netherlands had every right to feel aggrieved.
“As a defender, I think it’s an absolutely disgraceful decision,” he said.
“There’s no way that was a penalty. He just goes in naturally to block the shot. It’s not a penalty for me.”
Ex-England striker Alan Shearer said on BBC Radio 5 live: “There is no doubt that there is contact, but the defender [Dumfries] is trying to block the ball.
“The follow-through from Harry Kane makes the connection and I didn’t think it was a howler to be turned over.”
Netherlands and Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk also felt the penalty decision was the turning point in the game.
“I think the penalty moment is a big moment, England had some confidence out of it,” he added.
Lionesses star Beth Mead “begs to differ” with the claim thatGareth Southgateis the “only England manager to reach two major international finals.”.
The Three Lions have secured a clash with Spain in the Euro 2024 final, with major silverware on the line. This marks their second recent final appearance, having lost to Italy in a penalty shootout at Wembley Stadium in 2021.
In contrast, England’s women’s team celebrated a significant victory by winning the European Championship a year later. They reached the 2023 World Cup final but were defeated by Spain.
Both of these achievements were guided by Dutch coach Sarina Wiegman, who has led the Lionesses since September 2021.
Liverpool footballer Darwin Núñezwas involved in an altercation with spectators after Uruguay’s defeat on Wednesday evening. The striker was seen physically engaging with Colombian fans in the stands following the final whistle of the Copa America semi-final.
According to Uruguayan outlet El País, the disorder broke out near the area where the friends and family of the Uruguay team were seated. Núñez has not yet commented publicly on the incident.
Footage from TV cameras and fans showed Núñez climbing railings and moving into the crowded stands at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. He was seen confronting Colombian fans while others tried to restrain him.
Other Uruguay players were reportedly involved in the altercation as well.
Uruguay captain José María Giménez said the players were trying to defend their families, describing the situation in the crowd as a “disaster,” Reuters reported.
He continued: “There was no police and we had to defend our families. This is the fault of two or three people who had a few too many drinks and don’t know how to drink.”
After the altercation, Núñez was seen hugging his son on the pitch. Conmebol, South American football’s governing body, “strongly condemned” the incident and stated that it would initiate an investigation.
Núñez, who started the game as Uruguay’s forward, was unable to convert any of his four attempts on goal. The striker was signed by Liverpool for an initial £64 million from Portuguese club Benfica in June 2022 and has since scored 20 goals in 65 appearances for the team.
BBC News has reached out to Núñez’s representative for a comment. Meanwhile, Colombia is set to face Argentina in Monday’s final.
England will meet Spain in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin on Sunday, thanks to a dramatic last-minute goal by substitute Ollie Watkins that secured victory over the Netherlands.
Gareth Southgate’s team appeared headed for extra time for the third game in a row after Harry Kane’s controversial first-half penalty canceled out Xavi Simons’ early thunderous strike. However,Watkins’ late goal changed everything.
England dominated the first half, with Phil Foden in top form. Foden hit the post with a long-range shot and forced a great save from Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
The Netherlands, who had Denzel Dumfries’ header hit the bar before halftime, took control in the second half. It took crucial saves from England keeper Jordan Pickford to keep the match level.
Just when extra time seemed inevitable, Watkins, who had come on for Kane, delivered a brilliant late goal on the turn, propelling England to their second consecutive European Championship final on a thrilling night in Dortmund.
Southgate’s England one game from glory
England’s triumph over the Netherlands in Dortmund has brought Southgate and his squad within one game of making history, aiming to end the “years of hurt” that have persisted for 58 years.
Their campaign in Germany began slowly but ignited on a stormy night, giving England the chance to secure glory against favorites Spain at the Olympiastadion.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-IM_jgvsPpY
This will be England’s first final on foreign soil since the 1966 World Cup final and the Euro 2020 final, both held at Wembley.
England reached the final in typical fashion for this tournament: coming from behind, enduring tense moments, and ultimately winning through a late goal from Watkins. This achievement offers England a chance to avenge their painful penalty shootout loss to Italy at Wembley in the Euro 2020 final.
During Southgate’s eight-year tenure, England has often been close to major victories but has fallen short. This final presents an opportunity to change that narrative and write a new chapter in their history.
For Southgate, reaching another final validates his methods, which have been heavily scrutinized after earlier lackluster performances. A victory in Berlin would redefine his legacy.
The decisive moment came with the introduction of Watkins with nine minutes remaining. The Aston Villa striker injected energy and pace, troubling the Dutch defense, and his skillful finish across Verbruggen sealed the win in a tight match.
When Joan Monfort photographed a long-hairedLionel Messi with a baby for a charitycalendar almost 17 years ago, he sensed the young man would achieve greatness in football. However, he never imagined the baby would follow a similar path.
The infant in the now-viral photos is Lamine Yamal, the Spanish prodigy. At just 16, Yamal is already being hailed as a future star, drawing comparisons to the greats.
He recently became the youngest player to ever represent Spain and made history as the youngest player in the European Championship during the current tournament in Germany.
The long-forgotten photo from 2007 resurfaced after Yamal’s father posted it on Instagram last week with the text: “The beginning of two legends.”
Joan Monfort, a 56-year-old freelance photographer for the Associated Press and others, recalls a photoshoot in the visitors’ locker room at Barcelona’s Camp Nou in the autumn of 2007, when Lamine Yamal was just a few months old.
During this annual charity event organized by the local newspaper Diario Sport and UNICEF, Barcelona players posed with children and their families for a calendar.
Monfort was responsible for the photoshoots, and it was purely by chance that Messi was paired with Lamine Yamal’s family. One of the photos features Messi alongside Lamine Yamal’s mother, who is from Equatorial Guinea, and the baby.
“We made the calendar with the help of Unicef,” Monfort said. “So Unicef did a raffle in the neighbourhood of Roca Fonda in Mataró where Lamine’s family lived. They signed up for the raffle to have their picture taken at the Camp Nou with a Barça player. And they won the raffle.”
It wasn’t an easy assignment, he recalled, mainly because Messi wasn’t sure how to interact with the baby, who was in a plastic tub for the shoot. “Messi is a pretty introverted guy, he’s shy,” Monfort said.
“He was coming out of the locker room and suddenly he finds himself in another locker room with a plastic tub full of water and a baby in it. It was complicated. He didn’t even know how to hold him at first.”
At the time of the photoshoot, Messi was 20 and already recognized as a promising talent, but it would take a few more years for him to establish himself as the most outstanding player of his generation for Barcelona and Argentina.
Lamine Yamal, like Messi, has progressed through Barcelona’s famed La Masia youth academy.
Despite his young age, he has been one of Spain’s standout players at Euro 2024, where Spain will face France in the semi-finals on Tuesday. Yamal will turn 17 on Saturday, the day before the final in Berlin.
Monfort, now 56, didn’t realize itwas Lamine Yamal in those 2007 photos until a friend alerted him as the images began trending online.
Monfort, who has had a long career as a sports photographer since 1991, primarily following Barcelona, said he has never seen such excitement around any of his photos before.
“It’s very exciting to be associated with something that has caused such a sensation,” he said. “To tell you the truth it’s a very nice feeling.”
The former NDC National Organizer aspirant suggested that Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh was deliberately chosen as Dr. Bawumia’s running mate to hinder his chances of winning.
Expressing his opinion on his official X account, Henry Osei Akoto sarcastically said, “I’m fully convinced Bawumia selected Napo to finish off his campaign, kwatakwata,” accompanied by laughing emojis.
I'm fully convinced Bawumia selected Napo to finish off his campaign kwatakwata 😂😂😂
— Henry Osei Akoto (@HenryOseiAkoto_) July 9, 2024
His remark follows Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s statements made during his unveiling at Jubilee Park in Kumasi on June 9.
In his address to party members, NAPO praised the accomplishments of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, claiming that no president in the nation’s history, including Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, has developed the country as significantly as the current president.
“Since independence from 1957 until today, we’ve not had any president that has helped Ghana like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo. I say from 1957 until today, you can bring your Kwame Nkrumah… no president who has protected Ghana and moved the country forward like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo,” he said.
He has since come under heavy backlash from the public, as Ghanaians claim his statement was disrespectful to the reveredDr Kwame Nkrumah.
Renowned broadcaster Dr. Randy Abbey has taken issue with Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO),the vice-presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), over his assertion that there has been no hunger in Ghana during the eight years of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s administration.
Dr. Abbey argued that NAPO’s statement cannot be accurate, citing multiple news reports of food shortages in Senior High Schools across the country.
Speaking on his Good Morning Ghana programme on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, Dr. Abbey expressed surprise that NAPO would make such a claim.
“No, it’s a complete lie. I mean, we all live in this country. We know the problems with food. Headmasters are calling on parents to provide food, old students to provide food. Students don’t have food to eat.
“These were things that were on the front pages of newspapers, were discussed on programmes extensively over a period, to the extent that during that period, heads of institutions were soliciting for food from parents and old students were never sanctioned by the GES or the Ministry of Education, contrary to others who were sanctioned for doing things,” he said.
He added, “This is just a year or so ago, schools everywhere, parents were being asked to contribute to feeding children. So why would anybody lie like that?”
What NAPO said:
NAPO, during his initial remarks at his unveiling as the running mate of NPP flagbearer, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, asserted that it is only under the government of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo that Ghana has not experienced hunger.
“God has blessed the NPP party. Anybody who says God has not blessed us is a liar. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is the only president under whose 8 years of reign there has been no hunger, am I lying? For 8 years, there has been no hunger in Ghana,” he said in the Twi dialect.
He added, “While the whole world was experiencing hunger, Ghana had food. Let us give thanks to God for what He has done for our party.”
Ghana is grappling with a looming crisis in its timber industry,exacerbated by the collapse of 75 out of 100 local manufacturing companies.
The primary cause attributed to this collapse is the persistent destruction of forests by bushfires.
Industry stakeholders are sounding alarms, indicating that the remaining 25 companies operating in areas like Western North, Eastern, and Central Regions are on the brink of closure due to difficulties in securing raw materials for production.
CEO of the Ghana Timber Millers Organisation, Dr. Kwame Asamoah Adam,underscored these challenges in a recent interview with Citi Business News.
“Now, in terms of the numbers, the medium to large size companies, most of them have collapsed. So, coming from a figure of about 100 companies now, you have just about 25 that are surviving, operating, exporting, and also providing employment. ”
He added, “Now, in terms of the materials that are coming in, in terms of round logs, it has reduced in quantity from about 1.2 million m³ about 20 years ago to now just around 500,000 million. The reduction in raw materials is attributed mainly to a decline in the production areas”.
They originally secured a 10% stake during the Saudi Arabian-backed £305 million takeover in 2021.
Over time, their share decreased to six percent as the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the Reuben family increased their holdings.
According to BBC Radio Newcastle, Staveley and Ghodoussi have now sold their remaining stake and will be leaving the club.
The couple has been pivotal in managing the club’s operations since the takeover, which granted PIF an 80% controlling interest in the Premier League team.
During their tenure, Staveley and Ghodoussi appointed Eddie Howe as manager in November 2021, replacing Steve Bruce.
They also facilitated the signing of key players like Bruno Guimaraes and Kieran Trippierduring their first transfer window, helping the club avoid relegation.
Liverpool’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), are in discussions to acquire struggling French club Bordeaux.
The club faced provisional relegation to the third-tier National 1 by French football’s financial regulator, the DNCG, on Tuesday, due to their inability to provide financial guarantees for the 2024–25 season.
Bordeaux is currently appealing the decision and has a two-week window to finalise a sale to remain in Ligue 2 next season.
During Tuesday’s meeting with the DNCG, both Bordeaux and FSG presented their takeover proposals.
“Fenway Sports Group has expressed interest in the potential acquisition of French football club Girondins de Bordeaux and is in the early stages of dialogue and engagement,” said FSG.
“While the process is at this exploratory phase, we will not be making any further comments.”
When FSG appointed Michael Edwards as their chief executive of football earlier this year, his responsibilities included identifying and managing a second club.
Bordeaux, who were granted an initial stay of proceedings by theDNCG on June 27,are currently in the spotlight. The six-time French champions were relegated to Ligue 2 at the end of the 2021–22 season.
Napoli has completedthe signing of experienced defender Leonardo Spinazzola (31) on a free transfer, the Serie A side announced on Wednesday.
Details of the deal were not disclosed, but according to Italian media, Spinazzola has agreed to a two-year contract following his departure from AS Roma last month, where he amassed 151 appearances.
Spinazzola, a key figure in Italy’s Euro 2021 triumph, has faced recent challenges due to injuries that have limited his playing time.
This marks Napoli’s first significant acquisition under new coach Antonio Conte, who took charge in June following a turbulent season that saw three managerial changes and a 10th-placefinish in Serie A.
Manchester United faced financial challenges in the third quarter of a challenging season, announcing job cuts and an increase in ticket prices.
The Premier League club, under new leadership following British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe’s acquisition of a significant stake in and control over football operations, has been undergoing significant restructuring.
Despite being a 20-time English champion, United finished a disappointing eighth in the Premier League, prompting a comprehensive review of the club’s operations by management and ownership.
United plans to implement a club-wide redundancy program affecting approximately 250 jobs, along with a planned 5% increase in ticket prices for the upcoming season.
Erik ten Hag remains in his role as head coach for the new season, while the club has introduced new executives, including a CEO, finance chief, sporting director, and technical director, recruited from rival clubs to drive organisational change.
“The club is undergoing a meaningful transition both on the pitch and off in the operations of the company, which should serve it well over the next few years,” said Tim Fidler, Portfolio Manager at Ariel Investments, the third-largest investor in the club’s publicly traded shares.
“Despite the disruption, we are optimistic that the club’s long-term prospects are in excellent health,” he added, saying plans to develop the Old Trafford stadium would be key.
Manchester United’s upcoming season will include participation in the Europa League following their FA Cup final victory over local rivals Manchester City in May.
Owned predominantly by the Glazer family, the club has faced criticism over the past decade for its lavish spending on players, from Argentine World Cup winner Angel Di Maria to Brazilian winger Antony.
During the third quarter, player and staff wages saw a notable 7.3% increase, reaching £91.2 million. As of the end of March, the club’s debt stood at $650 million.
The transfer window has been relatively quiet, with new owner Jim Ratcliffe emphasising a cautious approach to spending in pursuit of major trophies.
For the three months ending March 31st, Manchester United reported a net loss of £71.4 million ($91.4 million), a significant increase from a £5.6 million loss the previous year.
Projected annual revenue for the fiscal year ending June is around £660 million, with adjusted core profit expected to reach approximately £140 million, slightly below earlier anticipated levels.
Incoming CEO Omar Berrada, formerly with Manchester City’s parent company,City Football Group, is set to commence his role at United this weekend.
Real Madrid has announced that Kylian Mbappé, their new star signing, will be unveiled at the Bernabéu on July 16.
Mbappé, who signed a five-year deal this summer after leaving Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer, marks the end of Madrid’s lengthy pursuit of the player.
The club anticipates a packed Bernabéu with its 81,000 capacity for Mbappé’s presentation, marking the largest-scale player unveiling since Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival in 2009.
Mbappé’s participation in Madrid’s pre-season tour of the United States, starting with a match against AC Milan at Soldier Field on July 31, Barcelona at MetLife Stadium on Aug. 3, and Chelsea at Bank of America Stadium on Aug. 6, is yet to be confirmed.
Following these fixtures, Real Madrid will face Atalanta in theUEFA Super Cup in Warsaw on Aug. 14, before kicking off their La Liga title defense away at Mallorca on Aug. 18.
Kylian Mbappé has admitted that his Euro 2024 campaignwas a disappointment after France’s 2-1 semifinal loss to Spain at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday.
Mbappé assisted Randal Kolo Muani for France’s early lead in Munich, but Spain turned the match around with goals from Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo, securing their spot in the final against either England or the Netherlands in Berlin on Sunday.
The Real Madrid forward concluded the tournament with just one goal, a penalty against Poland in the group stage, across five appearances.
“My competition? It was difficult,” Mbappé told reporters. “It was a failure. We had the ambition to be European champions; I had the ambition to be European champion. We aren’t that, so it’s a failure.
“It’s football. We have to move on. It’s been a long year. I’m going to go on holiday and get some rest — that’ll do me a lot of good, and I’ll try and come back strongly.”
Kylian Mbappé faced a challenging start to his tournament at Euro 2024 after breaking his nose in France’s opening match against Austria.
This injury sidelined him for the subsequent match against the Netherlands, but he returned wearing a protective mask in games against Poland, Belgium, and Portugal. However, due to discomfort with the mask, he opted not to wear it in the match against Spain.
“Wearing a mask was not easy for him, it restricted his vision and was an inconvenience,” France coach Didier Deschamps explained in a news conference after the loss.
“There was a medical consultation with the staff and Kylian felt more at ease without the mask.”
Without Mbappé on song, France struggled to fire at Euro 2024. Kolo Muani’s opener against Spain was the first goal scored by a French player from open play at the tournament after two own goals and a penalty.
As well as Mbappé, Antoine Griezmann has also been criticised, with the Atlético Madrid forward dropped from the starting lineup against Spain.
“I am not going to pass on the responsibility, I am in charge and I am responsible,” Deschamps said when asked about the performances of Mbappé and Griezmann.
“We were facing a Spain side with such quality. Even though Antoine didn’t start, Kylian did and we tried to do our best with what we had. And we tried to be as efficient as possible.
“It was great because we took the lead, but this Spanish side masters the game so well. We didn’t perform so well in the end. We didn’t manage to play as vertically as I would have wished.
“We did push until the end. I will not say that my players did not give their all. But they did not all play at 100% of their capacity in this Euros for several reasons.”
Didier Deschamps, who has been at the helm of the French national team since 2012, has achieved significant success, guiding them to two World Cup finals — winning one — and a European Championship final. With two years remaining on his contract, Deschamps is expected to lead Les Bleus into the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Meanwhile, Olivier Giroud appears to have concluded his international career after declaring his intention to retire from international football following the Euros. The striker, who recently moved from AC Milan to Los Angeles FC, made a brief appearance in the match against Spain but was unable to add to his impressive record of 57 goals in 137 appearances for France.
“He is disappointed like all the players,” Deschamps said of Giroud, who will turn 38 in September and made his international debut in 2011.
“Olivier was here from the beginning [of my time] and he’s the last one from first match we had. There have been some difficult periods, periods where he has not been as efficient. But he is an example of longevity, seriousness and professionalism.
“He has had less playing time thisEuro compared to initial discussions,but he is a leader in this group even if he is not always on pitch. It would have been better to finish on Sunday, but we want to say to him, Well done and thank you.”
The mayor of Marseille has advised Olympique de Marseille against signing Mason Greenwood from Manchester United, citing the forward’s alleged past behavior as “unspeakable.”
Sources informed ESPN that the clubs have reached a permanent transfer agreement for the 22-year-old, who spent the previous season on loan at Getafe.
Greenwood has not played for Manchester United since his suspension in January 2022, following his arrest on suspicion of rape and assault.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed that the case involved “social media images and videos posted by a woman reporting incidents of physical violence.”
“Greenwood’s behaviour is unspeakable and unacceptable,” Marseille Mayor Benoît Payan told French radio station RMC on Tuesday. “Hitting his wife … I saw images that deeply shocked me. Massacring his wife in this way is unbecoming of a man, and he cannot have his place on this team.
“The values of OM and Marseille are anything but that in fact. It’s a shame. I will ask [Marseille president] Pablo Longoria not to recruit Greenwood. I don’t want my club to be covered with the shame of someone who hits his wife.“
Manchester United have agreed to a €45 million deal with Lille for Leny Yoro, sources have revealed.
Despite Real Madrid’s strong interest, United hope their higher offer will persuade Lille to sell the 18-year-old center-back to them.
Madrid is confident in securing Yoro due to his desire to join Los Blancos, even though they have not yet made a formal bid. They aim to negotiate a slightly lower fee with Lille.
Paris Saint-Germain is also interested in Yoro, but Madrid remains optimistic, having reached an agreement with the player, according to ESPN sources.
Yoro’s contract with Lille expires in June 2025, and he does not intend to renew, pushing the French club to sell him this summer rather than lose him for free next year.
Man Utd are considering moves for Brentford’s Ivan Toney and Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin, reports The Athletic.
Discussions have taken place among United’s top brass as they look to strengthen Erik ten Hag’s squad. Both England internationals are viewed as viable targets due to their contract statuses.
Toney, 28, is in the final year of his contract. While Brentford are seeking £60 million, United aim to negotiate down to around £40 million.
Calvert-Lewin, 27, might depart Everton as the club navigates financial difficulties. United believe a £30 million bid could secure his transfer.
These potential signings are intended to bolster the squad and provide competition for Rasmus Højlund. United are also monitoring Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee but have yet to trigger his€40 million release clause.
Lionel Messi broke his goal drought, while Julian Alvarez also found the back of the net, leading Argentina to a commanding 2-0 victory over Canada and securing a spot in the Copa America final at MetLife Stadium on Tuesday night.
As the reigning champions, Argentina displayed their championship form against Jesse Marsch’s surprising semi-finalists, efficiently converting their chances and limiting Canada to just one shot on target.
Messi set the tone early, narrowly missing a long-range effort. Alvarez broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute, connecting with Rodrigo de Paul’s incisive pass to score.
Messi came close to doubling the lead before halftime, but his shot went wide after an impressive dribble past two defenders.
Early in the second half, Messi ended his scoring slump by tapping in a deflection from Enzo Fernandez’s powerful strike, giving Argentina a two-goal cushion in the 51st minute.
Although Canada had several promising attacks in the second half, their hopes dimmed when Alphonso Davies exited with an ankle injury with 20 minutes left.
Argentina comfortably saw out the match, threatening on the counter and keeping Canada at bay, thus advancing to their third consecutive major tournament final.
In a thrilling semi-final clash at the 2024 Euros in Germany, 16-year-old Lamine Yamal spearheaded Spain’s victory over France on Tuesday, July 9, 2024.
The match, held at the Allianz Arena, saw Spain clinch a 2-1 win, securing their place in the tournament final and marking their sixth consecutive win.
France initially seized the advantage when Kolo Mauni nodded in a superb cross from Kylian Mbappe within the first 10 minutes.
However, Spain swiftly turned the tide with a stunning four-minute double strike.
Yamal equalised in the 21st minute with a spectacular long-range curler into the top left corner, a goal already hailed as one of the best in the tournament.
Shortly after, Dani Olmo put Spain ahead, finishing a brilliant attacking move from inside the box. Spain maintained their lead through a resilient defensive display, booking their spot in the final.
They will face the winner of the semi-final between England and the Netherlands, set to take place on Wednesday, July 10, 2024.
Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP),Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia,has asserted his role as Ghana’s most impactful vice president since independence during the unveiling ceremony of his running mate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO), in Kumasi.
In his address, at the grand unveiling of his running mate, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the recognition of his performance by both supporters and critics alike, contrasting his achievements with the tenure of the NDC’s flagbearer, John Mahama.
He underscored his administration’s achievements and forward-looking leadership, framing the upcoming 2024 election as a pivotal choice between continuity of progress and regression.
“The choice is between the future and the past. He [Mahama]has been president before and he failed. I’m just a vice president, I’ve not been a president before, but everyone can attest that I’ve been the most effective vice president in the history of Ghana.
“Even the NDC know that. There’s been no hard-working vice president than me since independence. So the 2024 election is about going forward or backwards.”
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the running mate of the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, asserted that Ghana has not witnessed development comparable to what has been achieved under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, including even during the era of the revered first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
At his unveiling ceremony in Kumasi, NAPO praised President Akufo-Addo’s transformative leadership and highlighted his administration’s significant development initiatives.
“Since independence from 1957 till today, we’ve not had any president that has helped Ghana like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. I say from 1957 to now if you take your Kwame Nkrumah, no one has become president who has protected Ghana and moved it forward like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo,” NAPO stated.
He stressed that under President Akufo-Addo’s leadership, Ghana has seen substantial progress in various sectors, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, and the economy.
NAPO underscored that the government’s policies, such as the Free SHS policy and the One District, One Factory initiative, have been widely praised for their impact on the nation’s development.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has eulogised vice president and running mate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Bawumia as one of the best he has ever worked with emphasizing his loyalty and humility.
H said he has never wronged him in anyway since he began his walk with him.
Recounting how he ushered the Dr Bawumia into politics when he was diligently serving as Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, the president expressed his contentment with the service of the vice president since he chose him as his vice in 2008.
Speaking at the grand unveiling of Dr Matthew Opoku Pempeh’s unveiling as Dr Bawumia’s running mate in Kumasi at the Jubilee park earlier today, he said “Bawumia was diligently doing his work with Bank of Ghana, when I went to pick him and brought him into politics; he was even surprised but he paid heed to the voice of God and followed me.
Ever since he came, I have seen no wrong in him, he has been more than upright in his walk with me, so beautifully like how a father would walk with his dad”.
He further went on to describe the father-son relationship he has with his vice and how much Dr BAwumia opens hup to him and trust him with his deep thoughts.
“He opens up to me, share with me his deep thoughts and secrets, and I tell you he is a very intelligent person. Loyal, straightforward, hardworking, excellent and best vice president we have ever had in our country. He has never given me sleepless nights of having to worry about he backstabbing me or what his next move would be” he added.
King of the Asante land, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has given a brief history of the journey leading up to Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh well known as NAPO’s appointment as Dr Bawumia’s running mate.
Recounting the genesis of the former energy minister’s journey to the position of running mate, right from his involvement in decisions regarding the Manhyia- South Member of Parliament’s (MP) education and even the critical role he played in the minister’s decision to contest the seat after former Hon Kwame Addo Kuffour tenure came to an end in 2008.
“My son and grandson, his dad was my brother, as I ascended the throne he has become my grandson. I birthed and nurtured him with his dad. Even his fees I paid and he became a doctor then later went to Holland for furtherance of his studies.
He came back after his graduation that he was going back abroad to further his education then his dad was alive. Then we all said won’t you come and give injection and take a break from your endless education journey? He then said he’s left with one more.
He returned and he stayed in Accra for sometime; that was when Kuffour was president. He then came again to express his interest to join the race for the Manhyia South seat as the then MP Hon Kwame Addo Kuffour was stepping bowing out.
His dad directed him to seek my approval which I later gave; after he told me that was what he wanted….” Otumfuo recounted during the presentation of Dr Bawumia’s running mate, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh at the Manhyia Palacein Kumasi on July 9, 2024.
Team Ghana is gearing up for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, set to depart on Wednesday, July 10, as announced by Ben Nunoo Mensah, President of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC). This announcement came during the unveiling of Team Ghana’s official kit for the Games.
Expressing gratitude, Ben Nunoo Mensah acknowledged the financial support of the French Embassy in Ghana, which contributed 20,000 Euros towards the Ghanaian contingent.
Marine Hayem, the Cooperation Attaché of the French Embassy, emphasized their commitment to promoting sports in Ghana through this contribution.
Ghana’s Rose Yeboah won gold in Women’s High Jump at the 2023 African Games
The Olympics are scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 11, featuring nine athletes from Team Ghana.
Among them is Rose Yeboah, who clinched the high jump gold at the 2023 African Games and recently secured another victory at the Africa Athletics Championship in Douala, Cameroon.
Additionally, Ghana’s 4×100 Men’s Relay Team earned their spot in the Olympics after qualifying at the World Relays in Bahamas.
Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has refuted claims that the running mate of the New Patriotic Party, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO), is arrogant and disrespectful.
Speaking during a gathering where Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh was brought to be introduced to him and the chiefs of Asanteman, in Kumasi on July 9, 2024, the Asantehene, who is related by blood to NAPO recounted how he ‘birthed’ and raised the former energy minister with his father whom he calls a brother.
Conmsequently, he expressed surprised at to how a person whom he raised would be tagged as disrespectful and arrogant.
Otumfuo said he will defend his ‘grandson’ on these claims but he urged him to ensure that what people are saying about him proves untrue.
“In all humility work with Bawumia and deliver for me. Be obedient to his orders. There has been rumours following your announcement as Bawumia’s choice that you are arrogant and disrespectful but then I wondered, because while I trained you I saw nothing of that sort, so then why would people say that.
Well, I will defend you that, that isn’t who you are, but don’t let it be so. And if you serve wholeheartedly we will pray for you and by God’s grace everything will work out for us” Otumfou advised.
NAPO was presented to the Otumfuo at theManhyia Palace ahead of his grand unveiling as the vice-presidential candidate of the NPP at the Kumasi Jubilee Park.
Overlord of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II,has expressed his appreciation to New Patriotic Party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako popularly known as Chairman Wontumi for his role and support for NAPO so far within the region.
He expressed his gratitude during the grand unveiling of the party’s running mate Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh also known as NAPO at the Jubilee Park in Kumasi on July 9, 2024.
“Thank Chairman Wontumi for me, Ashanti Regional chairman, for his support and role played in this NAPO journey” the Asante overlord said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia formally informed the National Officers of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) about his selection of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as NAPO, as his running mate for the upcoming 2024 general elections on July 1st, 20241.
This significant announcement paved the way for NAPO’s official unveiling as Bawumia’s running mate in Kumasi on July 9, 2024.
The National Executive Council (NEC) of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) convened on Thursday, July 4, 2024, to deliberate on the nomination of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO) as the running mate to the party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia1.
This crucial meeting resulted in unanimous approval of NAPO’s candidacy, paving the way for his official unveiling as Bawumia’s running mate in Kumasi on July 9, 2024.
A recently surfaced image shows the building almost complete, with just a few final touches left.
In a video from February 2024, the club’s board chairman, Togbe Afede XIV, along with other executives, toured the facility, which will also function as the club’s commercial center as it neared completion.
After the tour, Togbe Afede spoke to the media, emphasizing that the new building aligns with their plans to boost the club’s commercial appeal and attract sponsors.
“It is good for brand building which will enhance our commercial value and make it more attractive for sponsors. In the end, you cannot divorce the commercial bit from the technical bit. They are inseparable. They are twins and work together.”
“Because without the resources you can’t support the technical…We cannot continue to pay at least $1,000 to $1,500 and compete with people who take $40,000. So, we have to enhance our commercial aspect,” he said.
The new commercial center features a conference room and offices for the managing director and supporting administrators. It also includes spaces designed for hosting the club’s commercial activities.
This Head Office/Commercial Centre is part of a four-step infrastructure project aimed at modernizing the club’s operations.
Other components of this visionary project include the Pobiman Sports Complex and a dedicated football stadium.
Director of Communications for theBawumia Campaign Team, Dennis Miracles Aboagye,has emphasized Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s remarkable track record, demonstrating his capability to handle assigned duties effectively.
During the Point Blank segment of Eyewitness News on Citi FM, Aboagye lauded Prempeh as the perfect running mate for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
“He’s a person with extensive experience and exposure, a goal-getter, results-oriented, and has a track record that proves he delivers when given responsibility. This is the person Dr Mahamudu Bawumia sought as a running mate to execute his vision.
“Moreover, before forming a government, winning an election is crucial. Who can bring substantial political capital to balance him out and boost our numbers? NAPO is clearly the most experienced political figure not just in our party but in the country,” he stated.
Dennis Miracles Aboagye, Director of Communications for the Bawumia Campaign Team, highlighted Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s outstanding track record, showcasing his ability to manage responsibilities efficiently.
Speaking on the Point Blank segment of Eyewitness News on Citi FM, Aboagye praised Prempeh as the ideal running mate for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Overlord of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II,has advised his ‘grandson’ and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) running mate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO), to remain humble and supportive of the flagbearer and Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, if they win the December 2024 elections.
Speaking at the grand unveiling of the former Energy Minister at the Kumasi Jubilee Park in the Ashanti Region today, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II urged NAPO to ensure that Dr. Bawumia never regrets choosing him as his running mate.
Don’t let Bawumia regret choosing you,” he emphasised twice. “Be humble, listen to him, and do as he says. These are just excerpts of our in-door conversation.
In all humility, work with Bawumia and deliver for me. Be obedient to his orders” Otumfuo stated, highlighting his indoor conversations with him.
“I have spoken with him in chambers, and I have advised him”.
Addressing claims of Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh being disrespectful and arrogant, Otumfuo expressed his surprise
stating that, he will defend him on that as that wasn’t how he raised him, however, he hopes the Manhyia South MP would prove his accusers wrong by doing what is right.
“There have been rumours following your announcement as Bawumia, NPP’s choice that you are arrogant and disrespectful, but then I wonder , because while I trained you I saw nothing of that sort, so then why would people say that.
I will defend you that that isn’t who you are, but don’t let it be so. And if you serve wholeheartedly we will pray for you and by God’s grace everything will work out for us” he said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia formally informed the National Officers of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) about his selection of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as NAPO, as his running mate for the upcoming 2024 general elections on July 1st, 20241.
This significant announcement paved the way for NAPO’s official unveiling as Bawumia’s running mate in Kumasi on July 9, 2024.
The National Executive Council (NEC) of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) convened on Thursday, July 4, 2024, to deliberate on the nomination of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO) as the running mate to the party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia1.
This crucial meeting resulted in unanimous approval of NAPO’s candidacy, paving the way for his official unveiling as Bawumia’s running mate in Kumasi on July 9, 2024.
In a significant ruling, a Kenyan court has granted10 million shillings ($78,000; £61,000) in compensation to the widow of a well-known Pakistani journalist who was fatally shot by police at a roadblock almost two years ago.
Arshad Sharif, a prominent TV anchor renowned for his outspoken criticism of Pakistan’s military leaders and political corruption, had previously raised concerns about death threats he received, which he brought to the attention of Pakistan’s chief justice.
Fearing for his safety, Sharif fled his homeland and sought refuge abroad.
Tragically, Sharif was killed by police in the Kenyan town of Kajiado two months later, sparking widespread outrage. Criticism mounted over the delayed response from authorities, prompting condemnation from UN experts directed at both Kenya and Pakistan.
‘A relief to me and my family’
Kenya’s police initially claimed mistaken identity, but Javeria Siddique, widow of the slain journalist Arshad Sharif, asserts it was a targeted assassination orchestrated on behalf of an unidentified individual in Pakistan.
In a landmark decision on Monday, the Kajiado High Court declared the actions of Kenyan authorities unlawful, citing violations of Sharif’s fundamental right to life. The court subsequently ordered compensation for Ms. Siddique, along with accrued interest until the full payment is made.
“Loss of life cannot be compensated in monetary terms nor is the pain and suffering the family must have gone through. But there’s consensus that compensation is appropriate remedy for redress in violation of fundamental rights,” said Justice Stella Mutuku as she delivered the verdict.
The judge’s decision included findings that Kenya’s director of public prosecutions and the independent policing oversight authority had neglected their duties by not prosecuting the two police officers implicated in Sharif’s death. T
he court has mandated both organizations to swiftly conclude investigations and formally press charges against the officers involved.
The lawyer representing Sharif’s widow, Ochiel Dudley, said “This is a win for the family and a win for Kenyans in their quest for police accountability”.
Sharif’s widow, Ms Siddique, expressed her gratitude to the Kenyan judiciary but added that her work was far from done.
“This ruling has come as a relief to me and my family, but I will not relent in getting maximum justice for my husband,” she said.
Like her late husband, Ms Siddique is a journalist and filed the lawsuit alongside the Kenya Union of Journalists and Kenya Correspondents Association last October.
She and her co-petitioners were seeking transparency, an apology, and accountability from the Kenyan authorities for what they called Sharif’s “targeted assassination”.
In an interview with the BBC,she expressed frustration over the lack of justice for her husband in Pakistan but affirmed her commitment to advocate for journalist safety.
She plans to engage international bodies like the UN and the Committee to Protect Journalists in her ongoing efforts.
Manchester United’s attempt to secure Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton has hit another snag, with the Merseyside club rejecting a second bid of £50 million ($64m) for the defender.
Everton is holding out for closer to £70 million, sources familiar with the negotiations have informed ESPN.
Branthwaite, who made his senior England debut against Bosnia & Herzegovina last season, missed out on Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad despite emerging as one of the Premier League’s most promising defensive talents.
United, keen on rebuilding their squad this summer, initially offered £35 million plus £8 million in performance-related add-ons for the former Carlisle player.
Everton swiftly turned down that offer.
Despite recent departures easing Everton’s financial burden, including players like Ben Godfrey, Dele Alli, André Gomes, and Lewis Dobbin, the club remains firm on their valuation of Branthwaite at £70 million.
Any transfer deal would also involve a commitment to pay Carlisle 15% of the transfer fee, as stipulated in the agreement when Branthwaite joined Everton from Carlisle in January 2020.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as NAPOand the running mate for current Vice President and flagbearer Dr. Bawumia, was featured in a video where Pastor Dr. Michael Boadi Nyamekye of Makers House church led a prayer session on Sunday, July 6, 2024, invoking blessings for NAPO’s upcoming role.
The pastor praised NAPO’s loyalty and dedication within the church, emphasizing these virtues as reasons why God will remember him as he prepares for his unveiling today.
The moment was shared in a tweet by @Mcvoo2 on X (formerly Twitter).
“You have been loyal to God.May that loyalty also be given back to you that the heavens will also show you loyalty as you step out to be unveiled and to begin your campaign.
At church today at the Makers House Arena with the Incoming Vice President @MatthewOPrempeh .
We know we will no be seeing you often in church often, but the lord will never leave you, the Lord will be with you” he prayed for NAPO.
He further went on to pray against all form of evil that shall come against him, quoting words from the book of Isaiah 59:19.
“Angels would be encompassed all about you. You will be protected. he sun shall not smite you by day nor the moon by night when they come up against you in the form of a flood, the spirit of our god will lift up a standard.
It is well with you in Jesus name, amen” the congregation joined in the affirmation of the prayers as they responded alongside the pastor and NAPO himself as he walked down to his seat smiling.
Liberia’s President Joseph Boakai has announced a significant reduction in his salary, aiming to lead by example in promoting responsible governance and showing solidarity with the Liberian people.
Amidst growing concerns over government salaries amidst rising living costs, President Boakai has decided to cut his annual salary by 40%. Previously disclosed at $13,400 annually, his salary will now be adjusted to $8,000.
This decision mirrors a similar move by his predecessor, George Weah, who had previously reduced his salary by 25%.
While some in Liberia have praised President Boakai’s decision as a step towards addressing economic challenges, others question its impact, considering additional benefits such as daily allowances and medical coverage that he continues to receive.
The presidential office’s budget for this year is reported to be nearly $3 million.
Anderson D Miamen, from non-profit organisation the Centre of Transparency and Accountability in Liberia, said the president’s pay cut is “welcoming”.
“We just hope that the public will clearly see where the deductions will go and how they will be used to positively impact the lives of the people,” he told the BBC.
W Lawrence Yealue II, whose organisation also campaigns for government transparency, described the president’s decision as “very commendable” and said that “leadership has to be provided from the top”.
He added that hoped Mr Boakai’s benefits would be reviewed in the budget for the next financial year.
As well as reducing his salary, Mr Boakai has pledged to “empower” Liberia’s Civil Service Agency to make sure public servants “receive fair compensation for their contributions to the country”.
Last week a group of lawmakers complained they had not received their official cars, which they needed to perform their duties.
As a form of protest, they turned up to parliament in tuk-tuks, known locally as keh keh, a common mode of transport for ordinary Liberians.
Mr Boakai took office in January after defeating Mr Weah in a run-off election. He vowed to tackle corruption and financial mismanagement during his presidential.
As well as declaring his assets since taking office, Mr Boakai has ordered an audit of the presidential office. The results have not yet been released publicly.
Mr Weah’s government was plagued by allegations of corruption, and lavish spending, which triggered mass protests as the cost of living spiralled for ordinary people.
Former captain of South Africa’s national football team, Portia Modise, has reached out to her supporters for assistance in recovering her vehicle after a hijacking incident outside her residence in Soweto.
In a video shared on Instagram, Modise recounted being accosted at gunpoint by “individuals “boys” who confiscated her phone, keys, and made off with her car.
The Portia Modise Foundation expressed concern over the trauma endured by the retired Banyana Banyana star.
Modise, who retired from professional football in 2015, holds the distinction of being the first African footballer to score 100 international goals.
“When I arrived home… there were a few guys who pointed firearms at me and hijacked me… I am not OK but I am grateful for life.”
She goes on to give the registration details of her stolen vehicle, urging people to call her if they spot it.
“If anybody has seen this car, it’s a blue Polo Golf – that is my car,” she says.
Despite the widespread support and solidarity shown by fans and supporters in response to the video, Portia Modise’s car has yet to be located.
Modise, who started her international career at the age of 16 in 2000, holds a record number of appearances for Banyana Banyana.
Her achievements include a nomination for the FIFA Player of the Year award in 2005, and a subsequent Player of the Tournament accolade at the African Women’s Championship the following year.
Currently, Modise has transitioned into coaching, continuing to contribute to football beyond her illustrious playing career.
