UEFA has launched an investigation into four Real Madrid players, including Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, over allegations of “indecent conduct” during their Champions League last-16 victory against Atletico Madrid.
The probe also targets defender Antonio Rudiger and midfielder Dani Ceballos, with all four players potentially facing disciplinary action ahead of Madrid’s quarter-final first-leg encounter against Arsenal on April 8.
“A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to investigate allegations of indecent conduct by Real Madrid CF players,” said the European football governing body in a statement.
According to reports from the Spanish media, UEFA is closely examining the behavior of Real Madrid players during their post-match celebrations.
Both UEFA and Real Madrid have yet to respond to AFP’s request for comment on the matter.
Madrid, the record 15-time Champions League winners and defending titleholders, secured their victory over Atletico Madrid in a dramatic penalty shootout at the Metropolitano Stadium on March 12, following a 2-2 aggregate scoreline.
However, the match ended in controversy when Atletico’s Julian Alvarez had his penalty ruled out due to an alleged double touch, a decision that sparked heated debate
Kylian Mbappe faced disciplinary scrutiny during a Ligue 1 match between Paris Saint-Germain and Marseille on September 13, 2020. He was investigated for unsportsmanlike conduct after provoking opponents following a goal.
Vinicius Junior has been under disciplinary probes in the past, particularly in connection with incidents of racial abuse during matches. A notable instance occurred on May 21, 2023, in a La Liga game between Real Madrid and Valencia, where he confronted fans and criticized the league’s handling of racism.
Ghanaian forward Inaki Williams shone brightly over the weekend, scoring twice in Athletic Bilbao‘s commanding 4-1 win over Espanyol on matchday 10 of the Spanish La Liga.
Williams’ first-half brace played a crucial role in securing the victory at San Mames. Athletic took an early lead when Daniel Vivian found the back of the net just six minutes into the game, assisted by Nico Williams.
Inaki Williams doubled the lead in the 28th minute, slotting in a close-range finish after being expertly set up by Alex Berenguer. Just two minutes later, Williams struck again, with Berenguer once more providing the assist, making it 3-0.
The Basque side entered halftime with a comfortable three-goal advantage. Shortly after the break, Berenguer added his name to the scoresheet, extending the lead to 4-0. Espanyol’s Alvaro Tejero later netted a consolation goal.
Williams’ brace marks his ninth career double in La Liga, bringing his season tally to seven goal involvements in 10 games.
Meanwhile, Clément Lenglet has suffered sprains to his left knee and ankle, according to tests carried out by the French centre-back after the match against Leganés.
He was forced to leave the match in the 64th minute due to accidental trauma received after Axel Witsel fell on his leg.
The ’15’ rojiblanco suffers from a grade I sprain of the internal collateral ligament of the left knee and a grade I/II sprain of the deltoid ligament of the left ankle.
The French defender will begin physical therapy and rehabilitation work and is awaiting further progress.
France forward Antoine Griezmann has officially retired from international football at the age of 33.
The Atletico Madrid star, who made 137 appearances for the French national team, played a crucial role in helping Les Bleus secure the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
“It is with a heart full of memories that I close this chapter of my life. Thank you for this magnificent tricolour adventure and see you soon,” Griezmann announced on social media.
Griezmann’s final appearance for France came during a 2-0 victory against Belgium, where he came on as a substitute. Just days earlier, he had started in a 3-1 Nations League defeat to Italy during the last international break in September.
Chelsea have initiated discussions with Atletico Madrid about potentially signing Portuguese forward Joao Felix.
The clubs, having recently negotiated separate deals for Conor Gallagher and Samu Omorodion, are now exploring the possibility of Felix joining Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea’s inquiry into Felix follows the collapse of Omorodion’s proposed transfer on Sunday. However, Gallagher is still expected to finalize his move to Madrid in the coming days.
Felix, who previously had a six-month loan spell at Chelsea, scored four goals in 16 appearances during the latter half of the 2022-23 season.
Although he remains under contract with Atletico until June 2029, his relationship with head coach Diego Simeone has soured, leaving his future uncertain.
The 24-year-old forward has been on an extended summer break after participating in Euro 2024, during which time he has been assessing his options.
Chelsea’s interest comes amid competition from Aston Villa, whose manager, Unai Emery, is a long-time admirer of Felix.
Atletico originally signed Felix in 2019 for €126 million (£113m), making it one of the highest transfer fees in football history at the time, following his impressive debut season with Benfica’s first team.
The Premier League club chose not to pursue a permanent deal for him last summer, leading to his loan spell at Barcelona during the 2023-24 season, where he scored 10 goals in 44 appearances.
Felix has also made 41 appearances for Portugal, netting eight goals for his national team.
The LaLiga club is set to pay up to €95 million ($104 million) for the Argentine forward, with €75 million as a fixed fee and an additional €20 million based on performance-related bonuses.
This transfer marks the highest departure fee in City’s history and yields a substantial profit from the £14 million they spent to sign Álvarez from River Plate in January 2022.
Sources have revealed thatalthough Álvarez has yet to finalize personal terms with Atlético, it is expected to be a mere formality.
Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has been handed a two-match suspension by the Competitions Committee following his red card during their 3-0 victory over Atletico Madrid.
SPORT confirmed the news via @Barca_Buzz on X.
Xavi’s expulsion occurred during the first half of the match at the Wanda Metropolitano due to his protests and complaints about the referee’s decisions.
Despite fears of a three-match ban due to his previous disciplinary issues, Xavi received a two-match suspension, allowing him to be on the sidelines for the upcoming Clasico against Real Madrid in April.
Along with the suspension, Xavi has been fined €600 (£514/$655), and the club will also need to pay a penalty of €700 (£600/$764).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWq5Pmdo0Og
Barca Noticias reports that Xavi has accumulated 24 yellow cards in La Liga over his three-year tenure as Barcelona manager, averaging one yellow card every 5.5 league games.
This rate is significantly higher than his frequency of receiving yellow cards as a player, where he averaged one yellow card every 13 games throughout his 928-match career.
Xavi’s suspension means he will miss Barcelona’s upcoming matches against Las Palmas at Montjuic and Cadiz away, before returning to the touchline for the Clasico against Real Madrid on April 21.
However, he will still oversee Barcelona’s Champions League quarter-final first leg against Paris Saint-Germain on April 10.
Antoine Griezmann has achieved a significant milestone by becoming Atletico Madrid’s all-time leading goal scorer and in recognition of this achievement, his teammate Memphis Depay has gifted him a diamond-encrusted ring reminiscent of those awarded to NBA and Super Bowl champions.
Crusted diamond ring
Griezmann, who clinched World Cup glory with France in 2018, surpassed the record previously held by Atletico Madrid legend Luis Aragones in January, scoring his 174th goal for the club.
To commemorate this feat, Depay presented him with a special ring adorned with diamonds and featuring his iconic No. 7, Griezmann’s preferred squad number.
Griezman with ring from Memphis
The ring comes in a unique case with a small screen displaying highlights from Griezmann’s time at Atletico Madrid.
Depay, who briefly shared the pitch with Griezmann during their time together at Barcelona, went the extra mile to give his close friend a lasting keepsake.
Knowing Griezmann’s admiration for American sports like basketball and the NFL, Depay ensured that the ring resembled those awarded to champions of the Super Bowl and NBA Finals.
WHAT GRIEZMANN & DEPAY SAID
Depay said to Griezmann when handing over his special gift on Valentine’s Day: “You deserve it. I know how much it means to you. This club, the fans, the city. Plus, I know how much you love the NBA!” Griezmann responded by saying: “I’m going to cry!”
Griezmann will aim to increase his goal tally when Atletico Madrid takes on Las Palmas in La Liga on February 17. However, his contributions are unlikely to significantly impact their quest for the league title, as Atletico currently sits fourth in the standings, trailing league leader Real Madrid by 13 points.
Despite this gap, Atletico remains in contention for silverware in other competitions.
They have a Champions League last-16 clash against Inter Milan ahead, and are also in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey, providing opportunities for further success under Diego Simeone’s guidance.
Real Madrid suffered a setback as winger Vinicius Jr was forced out of the starting lineup against Atletico Madrid due to an injury picked up during the warm-up.
The unexpected change led to confusion among fans at the Santiago Bernabeu, with Brahim Diaz stepping in and promptly scoring the opening goal within 20 minutes.
Although Vinicius was on the bench, coach Carlo Ancelotti opted not to bring him on in the second half. Despite an early lead, Real Madrid was held to a draw by Atletico Madrid with an equaliser from Marcos Llorente in stoppage time.
Real Madrid supporters hope Vinicius will have a swift recovery, considering his importance to the team after returning from injury.
The Brazilian forward, who scored a hat-trick in Real’s 4-1 Super Cup final victory over Barcelona, is crucial for Ancelotti’s squad.
With an eye on the La Liga title, Real Madrid faces a tough challenge against Girona in a potential title decider next Saturday.
Although Real is leading the La Liga race, Girona, the surprise package of the season, is determined to put up a strong fight, with only two points currently separating the two teams at the top.
Mason Greenwood is set to make a return to Manchester United, and the club is poised to entrust their new sporting director with the responsibility of determining his future.
In September 2023, Manchester United permitted the 22-year-old forward to go on loan to La Liga side Getafe.
This loan agreement has been extended until the conclusion of the season, showcasing Greenwood’s impressive performances in Spain and subsequently attracting interest from clubs such as Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.
Initially, when Greenwood bid farewell to Old Trafford, it seemed he had no future at Manchester United.
His last appearance for the Premier League giants was just before his arrest in January 2022 on charges of attempted rape, assault, and coercive control. However, these charges were dropped in February 2023, allowing Greenwood to resume his professional career.
Despite his legal clearance, there has been no reintegration for him at Manchester United.
According to Fabrizo Romano, a decision regarding the winger’s long-term future will be deferred until the Red Devils appoint a new sporting director.
Romano has told GIVEMESPORT, with Jadon Sancho also set to return to England from a loan spell at Borussia Dortmund: “At the end of the season, they will have Sancho and Greenwood returning.
With those players, Man Utd and INEOS want a new sporting director to make a decision and be responsible for what they decide to do with these two players.
“So, it’s early, and I think for Greenwood, nothing will be decided now or in February or March. I think it’s something that they will probably discuss in May or June.”
Significant personnel changes are on the horizon, with United expressing interest in recruiting Dan Ashworth from Newcastle as their new sporting director.
Additionally, Omar Berrada is poised to assume the role of CEO after being lured away from Manchester City.
The evident discord between Joao Felix and Diego Simeone became pronounced on Sunday followingthe Barcelona player’s goal against his parent club, Atletico Madrid.
In a 1-0 victory for Barcelona, Joao Felix, the 24-year-old Portuguese forward, showcased no restraint in celebrating his goal against Atletico, leaping onto the advertising board and gesturing with arms reminiscent of Jude Bellingham’s style.
Tensions escalated further between Felix and Atletico defender Jose Gimenez, with the two coming dangerously close to a physical altercation, as Felix accused Gimenez of striking him during their confrontation.
The strained relationship between Felix and Simeone was evident when, upon being substituted in the 79th minute, there was a noticeable lack of acknowledgement between player and manager.
Simeone opted to ignore Felix, and vice versa.
Simeone, in the post-match interviews, chose not to comment on Felix’s performance, stating, “I don’t talk about my rivals; I talk about my team and I keep the good things.”
The rift between Felix and Simeone deepened when the player lost his place in the squad, despite their joint success in winning La Liga in 2021.
Felix subsequently entered into a loan agreement with Chelsea in January, and upon his return to the Spanish capital in the summer, an immediate departure ensued.
Felix is keen on extending his loan tenure at the Nou Camp. However, Barcelona’s financial challenges might pose a hurdle in securing his continued presence.
While with the Blaugrana, the former Benfica player aims to sustain the momentum and form into the upcoming significant showdown against La Liga’s surprise contender, Girona. Barcelona is set to face the team in second place on Sunday, December 10.
The outcome of this match could have substantial implications for both Felix’s future with the club and Barcelona’s standing in the league.
João Félix secured the game-winning goal for Barcelona against Atlético Madrid on Sunday night, expressing his joy in celebrating against his parent club.
Leading up to the clash, Félix found himself at the centre of a controversy, engaged in an ongoing war of words with his former teammates after deciding to leave Atlético in September.
The decision by the 23-year-old forward to celebrate scoring against his parent club further heightened tensions between Félix, the Atlético Madrid players, and supporters.
Félix was loaned to Barcelona from Atlético Madrid this summer after reportedly falling out with manager Diego Simeone. Despite claims, a return to La Rojiblancos seems highly unlikely, especially considering his actions on Sunday.
In an interview, Félix disclosed that his celebration against Atlético Madrid was a way to release the frustrations he endured while at his parent club, as reported by SB Nation.
The 23-year-old had a challenging time at Wanda Metropolitano, being benched after a fallout with Simeone before being loaned to Chelsea and then to Barcelona.
Félix explained that only those close to him understand the emotions he and his family went through, and the goal celebration served as a cathartic release against the team that had caused him significant distress.
Earlier, Sports Brief reported that João Félix’s exceptional dinked finish secured a crucial 1-0 win for Barcelona over Atlético in the La Liga title race. On loan at Barça from Atlético, the Portuguese forward openly expressed his satisfaction with leaving the Spanish capital during the summer.
Félix faced criticism from some Atlético players before the game, and Barcelona coach Xavi encouraged him to use these criticisms as inspiration.
João Félix expressed that a sense of relief fueled his celebration after scoring the sole goal in Barcelona’s 1-0 victory over his parent club, Atlético Madrid, on Sunday.
Following his goal in the 28th minute, João Félix stood on the advertising hoardings at the Olympic Stadium, arms raised, in front of the Atlético supporters.
The Portuguese forward, who joined Barcelona on a season-long loan from Atlético in September, explained that the celebration was connected to challenging moments leading up to securing the move.
“It was spontaneous,” he told Movistar after the game. “At the end of the day, you’re in the heat of the game and it was almost [a feeling of] relief for everything I went through in the summer.
“Only those closest to me, my family mainly, know what I went through. This was for them; I felt relieved for them, too.”
The lead-up to the game was marked by a verbal exchange between Félix and some of his ex-teammates. They expressed a preference for more attacking football and criticised him for perceived inconsistency.
However, Félix sought to minimise any animosity.
“I get on well with them,” he added. “They know it has nothing to do with them. I have nothing against them. I hope things go well for them, just not against us.
“Every week there is talk about me, for good or for bad. I focus on my job without looking at what people say or think. I am working to improve and be a better player.”
His goal against Atlético—the only one of the game for either side—comes just four days after his winner against FC Porto in the Champions League in midweek.
It was his fifth of the season for Barça and sealed an important win for the Blaugrana, moving them ahead of Atlético in the table, four points behind joint leaders Real Madrid and Girona.
“Once again he made the difference for the team,” Barça coach Xavi Hernández said in a news conference after the game.
“He worked hard, won a lot of balls back, was really good positionally and he has a good understanding with [João] Cancelo on that [left] flank.
“I am delighted for him. He’s happy and is making a difference in games, which is fantastic for him. It was an intelligent performance because sometimes when you are so motivated, you (sic) can cross a line.”
Félix later told ESPN that he hopes Barcelona will sign him permanently.
“That is more a question for the sporting director than me,” Xavi said of the chances of a deal happening. “But I am very happy with him. He is working hard, performing well and is a great kid in the dressing room. I am delighted to have him on the team.”
Nahuel Molina’s outstanding form forAtletico Madrid means that the La Liga club is already working on a new contract for the Argentina defender, according to Marca.
Molina, 25, is now viewed as “one of the top five right-backs in the world,” the newspaper reports, having been dismissed as a “whim” meant to placate coach Diego Simeone when he signed in July 2022.
According to Marca, a little over a year later, Atletico Madrid is now considering negotiations for an enhanced contract for Molina, recognising his role as an unquestioned starter and a World Cup champion.
This potential deal would involve a release clause exceeding his current €90 million, although both sides are still far from finalising an agreement.
João Félix has admitted that he struggled to acclimatise toAtletico Madrid and Diego Simeone’s tactics despite his sensational beginning with Barcelona.
Félix, aged 23, has already netted three goals in his initial two starts for Barcelona since his recent loan move from Atletico earlier this month.
The Portuguese forward initially joined Atletico from Benfica for a substantial €126 million ($134 million) fee in 2019, but during his four seasons under coach Simeone, he failed to fully meet the high expectations set for him.
“When things are going badly in football for someone, you have to make a change,” Félix said in an interview with Mundo Deportivo on Thursday.
“I did it before going to Chelsea [on loan in the second half of last season] and now coming to Barcelona because it was not going well [at Atletico].
“I didn’t adapt to the club’s or the coach’s ideas, but I always tried to do the best I could. I have had good times there as well.”
Atletico Madrid’s forward, Memphis Depay, proudly embraced his Ghanaian heritage by executing an ‘adowa’ dance move in jubilation following his remarkable long-range goal for the team in a La Liga match on Monday evening.
Depay, who has dedicated each of his past three summer breaks to reconnecting with his ancestral country, confidently netted a goal from a staggering 40 yards, propelling Atletico Madrid to a 2-1 advantage and paving the way for a comfortable 3-1 victory against Granada in their inaugural La Liga game of the 2023/24 season.
The 30-year-old expressed his joy by elegantly showcasing the ‘adowa’ dance, raising his arms skyward and then touching his chest—an unmistakable gesture signifying his dominance at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium.
This celebration perfectly complemented his extraordinary goal, which has sparked widespread discussions and admiration.
Derived from the Akan people of Ghana, the ‘adowa’ dance holds significant cultural importance. This traditional dance is a cherished part of Ghanaian heritage, performed during cultural events such as festivals, funerals, engagements, and festive occasions.
Relevo reports that Atletico Madrid has turned down a loan bid for Joao Felix from Saudi club Al Hilal.
The unsettled Portugal forward is keen on leaving Atletico during this summer transfer window and has publicly expressed his interest in playing for LaLiga rivals Barcelona.
Coach Diego Simeone has left him out of the preseason games.
According to Relevo, Al Hilal made a substantial offer to secure Felix on a season-long loan, covering his wages entirely.
However, Atletico is more inclined towards a permanent deal.
They report that Felix prefers to stay in Europe, but he hasn’t ruled out a move to Saudi Arabia either. Negotiations are set to continue in the coming days.
Amid his wish to depart the club and his candid declaration of wanting to move to LaLiga competitors Barcelona, Atletico Madrid captain Koke has emphasized that Joao Felix is “training well” in preseason training.
Presently, the team finds itself in Monterrey, Mexico, gearing up for a fixture against Real Sociedad as a component of their worldwide journey.
This comes subsequent to their recent 2-1 triumph over Manchester City in South Korea.
“Joao is training well, he’s calm,” Koke told El Larguero when asked about reports of a rift between the Portugal international and the rest of the squad. “Each player has their mentality, wanting to play in one place or another.
“But when you’re at a club you must respect it, and that’s what Joao is doing, he’s working like everyone else.”
Coach Diego Simeone — who said earliere this week that “no-one is more important than the club” when asked about Felix — was also asked about his fears of losing key players before the transfer window closes, in his prematch news conference.
“We’ll have to compete [with Real Madrid and Barcelona] as always,” he said. “We hope the [transfer] market allows us to have this balanced group [of players].
“Clubs, like players and agents, have their work to do. We have a balanced team, there are good players in every position, but then there are the needs that each person has… Until [August] 31st you’re there waiting, and you have to think about a plan A or a plan B. A huge offer can arrive, for a player and the club.”
Manchester City’s pre-season friendly against Atletico Madrid in Seoul faced a half-hour delay due to torrential rain.
Heavy rain in the South Korean capital caused the match to be postponed for at least 30 minutes, with images on social media revealing the pitch at the Seoul World Cup stadium submerged in water.
Today's match against Atletico Madrid has been delayed due to adverse weather conditions.
Pep Guardiola fielded a full-strength starting line-up for the match against Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid, with Ederson in goal and Erling Haaland leading the attack.
This match marked the third and final game of City’s tour of Asia, having previously secured a 5-3 victory against Yokohama F Marinos in Tokyo and a 3-1 win over Bayern Munich in the Japanese capital before arriving in South Korea.
Following their Asian tour, Manchester City will take on Arsenal in the Community Shield on August 6, and their Premier League title defense will begin with an away fixture against Burnley on August 11.
Reports suggests that,Atletico Madrid has agreed to facilitate Joao Felix’s much-desired move to Barcelona.
Back in December 2022, Barcelona came close to securing the Portuguese winger on loan, but Atletico withdrew from the deal and opted for Chelsea instead.
However, the current situation suggests a potential change, as AS reports that Atletico has given the green light for Felix to join their arch-rivals, Barcelona.
It is likely that any agreement will include a purchase option, granting Barcelona the opportunity to sign Felix permanently once the loan spell concludes.
In a recent interview with Fabrizio Romano, Felix admitted that he would “love to play for Barca” and the Liga champions have always been his “first choice” as it was his “dream” to don their jersey since he was a child.
Barca president Joan Laporta would love to welcome him at Camp Nou and they have already crunched the numbers that would take them to execute the operation, keeping in mind their fragile economic condition.
Felix has struggled to find his feet under Diego Simeone and has netted just 34 times in 131 appearances for Atletico.
His loan spell withChelsea saw him score four goals in 20 Premier League appearances and has been linked with a permanent move away from the Wanda Metropolitano, with Barcelona now emerging as the favourites for his signature.
Atletico and Barcelona are figuring out the details of the transfer and Felix will hope to finalise a transfer to Camp Nou before the start of the new season.
President of Atletico Madrid, Enrique Cerezo, has disputed that there is a problem with Joao Felix’s attitude during training as the star forward prepares to leave the team before the new season.
After returning after an erratic loan stint at Chelsea last season, the Portugal international appeared agitated during the team’s training session this week.
“We’re happy to have a player of his quality,” Cerezo said, as the Atletico squad met for their traditional preseason dinner in Segovia on Tuesday. “[Joao] is a player everyone loves.
“Right now he’s an Atletico player. When your holidays are over and you have to work so hard physically it’s normal that you get mad. You’re getting up at 8 instead of 11, I wouldn’t be happy either!”
The relationship between Joao Felix and coach Diego Simeone has suffered in recent years, with Simeone admitting last season that there had been problems between the pair.
“[Joao] is a player and [Simeone] is a coach,” Cerezo said. “That’s the relationship. What’s the problem?”
The player is strongly linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain, who may make their move if Kylian Mbappe or Neymar depart this summer.
Cesar Azpilicueta, the Spanish defender, has officially signed a one-year contract with Atletico Madrid following his departure from Chelsea.
The 33-year-old Azpilicueta had an impressive career at Chelsea, making a remarkable 508 appearances since joining the club from Marseille in 2012.
During his time at Stamford Bridge, Azpilicueta played a pivotal role in the team’s success, winning a total of nine major honors. He captained the side to victories in the 2019 Europa League, 2021 Champions League, and 2021 Club World Cup finals.
In an Instagram post, Azpilicueta, affectionately known as “Dave” to the fans, expressed his emotions about leaving Chelsea, stating that it was the most difficult letter he has ever had to write. He wanted to be the one to personally share the news with the supporters.
“This is, without doubt, the hardest letter I have ever had to write, but I want to be the one to share this with you.
“After 11 incredible seasons proudly keeping the blue flag flying high, the time has come for me to leave Chelsea.
“Our journey together started on August 24, 2012. After waiting impatiently to travel to London, my first day as a Chelsea player finally became a reality.
“From the first moment I wore the blue shirt, I felt right at home.
“I will always remember the butterflies in my stomach as I looked at all the trophies and successful moments posted on the wall of the training ground, a success that a young Azpi wanted to emulate.
“I could not have imagined to be here today after 508 appearances, winning nine trophies and becoming your captain.
“Adriana and I arrived in London as a young couple and we are leaving as a family of five, with our kids having been born and raised in England.
“Our bond with the city and the club will remain forever.”
Cesar Azpilicueta, with one year left on his contract, has decided to return to his home country and join Atletico Madrid under the management of Diego Simeone.
Azpilicueta now joins a growing list of players departing the Premier League side this summer, including Kalidou Koulibaly, Mateo Kovacic, Edouard Mendy, Kai Havertz, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, N’Golo Kante, and Mason Mount.
A statement from Chelsea read: “Azpilicueta will always retain the gratitude of those at Chelsea for his crucial role on and off the pitch during such a successful period for the club.
We are bidding an emotional farewell to a Chelsea great.
Following his retirement from football due to recurring injuries, former Ghanaian Youth International Saddick Adams has expressed his eagerness to assist emerging football talents in navigating the contractual challenges he personally faced.
Saddick Adams found himself entangled in a contentious transfer deal between Atletico Madrid of Spain and Tunisia’s Etoile du Sahel.
At the age of 33, Saddick Adams is determined to offer guidance to young players, particularly in terms of decision-making and ensuring they have proper representation.
He believes that with the support of agencies and managers, aspiring footballers can make informed choices and avoid the career setbacks he encountered.
“That’s what I’m also trying to get into because I said in the beginning g that during our time it was difficult to have an agency or any manager who can make certain decisions.
“But I think this time there are a lot of agencies and managers who are helping the young ones to make decisions because if I had that kind of support and management, I would not have gone and signed two contacts which brought issues to my career,” Saddick Adams told Radio Gold Sports.
He added “So I’m also trying to go into that to try to educate the upcoming ones to also not make that mistakes.”
Sources have confirmed to ESPN’s Rodrigo Faez, that Celta Vigo’s left-back, Javi Galan, is on the verge of joining Atletico Madrid in a transfer deal valued at approximately €3.5 million.
As part of the agreement, Atletico’s young talent, Manu Sanchez, will move in the opposite direction.
With Galan’s arrival, Atletico Madrid’s pursuit for a long-term solution at left-back comes to a close.
The club had been seeking a replacement following Renan Lodi’s departure to Nottingham Forest last year and an injury to Reinildo.
Sergio Reguilon joined on loan from Tottenham last season but, for various reasons, did not nail down a regular starting sport and coach Diego Simeone was forced to improvise with personnel and his formation.
Galan, 28, was a regular for Celta last season, making 40 appearances in all competitions, and has previously beenlinked with Barcelona.
Manager of Atletico Madrid, Diego Simeone, has expressed his opinion regarding the debate surrounding the superiority ofKylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland.
Both Mbappe and Haaland have been identified as the potential successors to the legendary duo of Ronaldo and Messi, who are widely regarded as the greatest footballers of all time.
While Ronaldo and Messi have an impressive collection of 12 Ballon d’Or awards between them, it is worth noting that they are no longer in their prime, and the younger generation of players is ready to take on the mantle in the near future.
Diego Simeone
Among the younger crop of players, a considerable number of names have already solidified their status as stars, but none resonates like PSG’s Kylian Mbappe and Manchester City’s Erling Haaland.
Both stars have not looked back since taking the world by storm in their debut campaign and have proceeded for greater exploits. When asked to pick between the speedy Frenchman and the Norwegian goal machine, Simeone said, as quoted by (h/t PSG Community) via Daily Post.
“Between Mbappe and Haaland? Mbappe. He is an extraordinary player who does everything well at only 24 years old. It is madness.”
While Simeone’s evaluation of Mbappe and Haaland may be based on personal observation, it is worth noting that statistically, the forward from Manchester City has an astonishing record of 52 goals from 51 games this season.
Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland
Additionally, he is on the verge of securing the treble, which could potentially enhance his standing in the race for the Ballon d’Or ahead of Mbappe.
In terms of goals scored, Mbappe, who played a crucial role in PSG’s Ligue 1 triumph, also has an impressive tally of 40 goals in 42 matches, per Transfermarkt.
Man City legend picks Mbappe
In a related publication, Sports Brief reported that Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe are setting themselves up nicely to take over the decade-long rivalry between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Currently, at 52 goals and counting, the Norwegian has established himself as the most potent striker in world football. Perhaps his only downside compared to Mbappe is that he rarely creates chances. He largely relies on the brilliance of his teammates around him.
Real Madrid is gearing up to face Sevilla this weekend at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium; however, they will be without key attacking options in the central position.
Marco Asensio, Mariano Diaz, Karim Benzema, and Vinicius Junior are all expected to be sidelined due to injuries.
Mariano and Asensio are dealing with muscular problems, while Benzema has stitches in his foot following a cut he sustained in a match against Rayo Vallecano.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti has also confirmed that Vinicius Junior is still struggling with a knee issue, which prevented him from participating in their recent midweek victory.
Ancelotti denied the Brazilian was being left out as a convenience, following the racial persecution he has suffered of late away from home.
“No, he doesn’t travel because he can’t play. His knee still bothers him. He can’t play, period,” Ancelotti said, via Football Espana.
Real Madrid are a point ahead of city rivals, Atletico Madrid in second place and that, along with professional pride, remain the only thing in play, Sports Mole cited.
Florentino Perez may also remind his charges that several millions in Euros are in play.
Sevilla, meanwhile, can still make seventh place and the Europa Conference League next season, but will have their attention firmly focused on next week’s Europa League final against Roma.
Real Madrid stands by Vinicius
Meanwhile, Real Madrid paid special tribute to Vinicius Junior after the Brazilian forward faced racist abuse in the club’s previous La Liga game against Valencia.
The men’s and women’s teams, along with the basketball squad, showed solidarity for the 22-year-old by wearing his jersey number before their games on Wednesday, Madrid Zone reported.
Real Madrid stands by Vinicius by wearing number 20 jersey
FIFA president, Gianni Infantino has also publicly supported Vinicius, Valencia has condemned the racist abuse, and Real Madrid has filed a hate crime complaint with Spanish authorities.
Vandals destroy Vinicius Jr’s poster
Earlier, Sports Brief reported that the racism row engulfing Spanish football shows no sign of abating after a poster of the Real Madrid forward Vini was defaced on Wednesday.
An image of the Brazilian player on an advertisement for stadium tours at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu was torn while the culprit left the effigy of Karim Benzema untouched.
The 22-year-old Real Madrid winger was given his marching orders for slapping Hugo Duro after being manhandled by the Valencia player, sparking jeers from home supporters.
Enrique Cerezo,the president of Atletico Madrid, wants to see a LaLiga matchup between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo before both players hang up their boots.
Messi spent 21 years at Barcelona before departing on a free transfer to join Paris Saint-Germain in August 2021. He has been frequently linked with a return to the club.
Prior to playing for Juventus, Manchester United, and the current Saudi Arabian team Al Nassr, Ronaldo spent nine seasons and won numerous trophies with Real Madrid.
While there has been little talk of Ronaldo heading back to the Spanish top flight, Cerezo believes it would benefit the league for the two superstar forwards to return one day.
“It would seem fantastic to me if Messi returned to the league, the same as Cristiano Ronaldo,” he said while attending the Barcelona Open tennis final on Sunday.
“Both are still playing and it would be fantastic if they returned.”
Cerezo was speaking ahead of Atletico’s 1-0 loss to Barcelona, which leaves Diego Simeone’s side 16 points adrift of the leaders and five behind second-place Real Madrid.
Yannick Carrasco played a full part for Atletico, though he may find himself at Barcelona next season as the Catalan giants have the option to sign the versatile wide player.
“Yannick is a very good player, fantastic,” Cerezo said when asked about Carrasco’s future.
“In the world of football, there are people who want to achieve many things and don’t get to, and others who don’t want anything and get it. I don’t know [what will happen next].”
Barcelona’s main players Pedri, Ousmane Dembele, and Frenkie de Jong have resumed their training regimen as the Blaugrana inch closer to their first league championship in three years.
All three of Barcelona’s regulars have endured protracted absences.
Three players—Dembele in late January, Pedri in mid-February, and De Jong right before the month’s international break—all sustained injuries.
While all three are back on the training pitch, no official return date has been set.
However, it is possible that both De Jong and Pedri will feature in the Blaugrana’s clash with third-placed Atletico Madrid this weekend, according to AS.
The trio’s return comes at a welcome time for Xai’s side.
Barcelona are winless in their last three fixtures, and have now been held scoreless for nearly 400 minutes in all competitions.
The revelation that deputy midfielder Sergi Roberto will be out of up to six weeks only makes their need for reinforcements more pressing.
Pedri and De Jong seem on track to return for their club’s fixture on Saturday, while Dembele might need an extra week tosettle back into the side.
The Serie A league leaders in Italy received a harsh reality check yesterday when AC Milan, the defending champions, defeated them in a 4-0 game at the Estadio Diego Armando Maradona.
High-flying Napoli, who were without their star striker Victor Osimhen, were defeated by two goals from last season’s MVP Rafael Leao and one each from Brahim Diaz and Alexis Saelemaekers.
With the defeat, Luciano Spaletti’s team’s lead over Lazio in second place was cut to 16 points.
At the same time, it moved Milan up to third place, one point ahead of Inter Milan, which suffered a defeat to Fiorentina on Saturday.
According to Italy 24, Napoli ultras protested ahead of the game. Those inside the stadium were ordered to stay silent in protest against club president Aurelio de Laurentiis for rising ticket prices and increased security measures.
Napoli fans brawl inside stadium The fans stuck to their agreement in the earlier stages of the game, but they proved they didn’t deserve one of their demands after a brawl broke out in Curva B during the first half, as reported by Football Italia.
They further pushed against their demands when another fight broke out at half-time. The fans turned their backs and only made insulting chants towards De Laurentiis, but got triggered when some cheered the team.
Their demands were not helped when the situation got worse in the closing stages of the game, with fireworks lighting inside the stadium causing pandemonium and fans running for safety.
It was not the first time Neapolitans caused violence this season. They were barred from attending the away game to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League after causing disruption in the first leg of the encounter.
Spalletti started young striker Giovanni Simeone, the son of Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone, in place of Osimhen but the Nigerian striker’s impact could not be matched.
The former Lille striker is expected to miss the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie against Milan.
Real Madrid was forced to fight back in a frustrating 1-1 draw with 10-man rivalsAtletico Madrid, and Carlo Ancelotti admitted it will be “difficult” for Los Blancos to win LaLiga.
When Atleti substitute Angel Correa was controversially dismissed with Saturday’s derby tied at 0-0, Madrid would have liked their chances of closing the gap on league leaders Barcelona to five points.
Atleti then appeared to be heading for a memorable victory when Jose Gimenez gave them the lead at the Santiago Bernabeu, but late in the game, 18-year-old forward Alvaro Rodriguez saved Madrid’s face.
Ancelotti is aware of the difficulty of Madrid’s task given that the draw gives Barcelona the opportunity to extend their lead to 10 points when they travel to Almeria on Sunday.
Asked about the title race by DAZN, Ancelotti said: “It was already very difficult before this match, now it’s more. We are going to fight until the end, that’s what I can say.
“We lacked a bit of freshness. But mentally more than physically. At 1-0, it took us 10 minutes to compose ourselves, to reposition ourselves.
“In the first half there was a lack of intensity and in the second, we reached it at the end, but we didn’t fully take advantage of the numerical superiority.”
However, Ancelotti did reserve praise for Alvaro, who became the youngest player to score in a Madrid derby in LaLiga this century (aged 18 years and 226 days).
1 – Two different Uruguayan players (Álvaro Rodríguez and José María Giménez) have scored in a derby between Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid in LaLiga for the first time in the 21st century. Equality. pic.twitter.com/ofGwFN6pwi
Prior to this weekend’s derby match against Real Madrid,Atletico Madrid’s midfielder Rodrigo De Paul has been sidelined for an unknown period of time due to a thigh injury.
The Argentina international was taken off the field just before the hour mark of his team’s LaLiga victory over Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.
It is now known that De Paul, a member of La Albiceleste’s World Cup-winning team in Qatar 2022, had a thigh injury.
“Rodrigo De Paul is suffering from a thigh injury, according to the medical tests he has undergone after ending up with muscular problems in the match against Athletic Bilbao,” read an official statement.
“The midfielder will begin to receive physiotherapy sessions, rehabilitation training and is pending evolution.”
Though no timeframe has been given for De Paul’s potential return, Atletico will hope he is not sidelined for a prolonged period as Diego Simeone’s side fight for a top-four finish in LaLiga.
However, it would seem unlikely De Paul will be fit for Saturday’s trip to theSantiago Bernabeu.
Antoine Griezmann says Atletico Madrid fans’ ongoing demonstrations against the club’s owners have made it more challenging for the team to play at home. Some Rojiblancos fans frequently chant and whistle in opposition to the club’s ownership, particularly Miguel Angel Gil Marin and his family, and they have demanded that the CEO leave the organisation.
According to Football Espana, Griezmann has now requested that the fans end their protest because it is harming the team.
“Ultimately, it’s about streaks, and I hope I can score more goals, but it’s true that it’s more difficult here because of the fans.
“I hope they can fix it as soon as possible because we need them. With them, no doubt we can go much further.” Atletico Madrid moved within two points of Real Sociedad in third and maintained a four-point gap over Real Betis in fifth in their bid forChampions League qualification.
Griezmann strike earns Atletico win Meanwhile, Griezmann scored a brilliant late goal to claim a battling 1-0 win against Athletic Bilbao at the Wanda Metropolitano on February 19, Sportstar reports.
It was only their fifth home victory in a difficult season that saw them eliminated from the UCL in the group stage and the Copa del Rey in the quarter-finals.
Coach Galtier sends strong message to players ahead of second leg clash against Bayern Griezmann’s goal was his 14th in 30 games against Bilbao, the most the French forward has scored against any team in his professional career. Griezmann praised by France coach Sports Brief also reported on Griezmann being one of France’s most important players, since making his debut for Les Bleus in February 2014.
The Atletico Madrid forward has come in handy in several positions for France, including leading striker, attacking midfielder, winger, and central midfielder. Griezmann currently occupies the midfield with Aurelien Tchouameni and Adrien Rabiot, in absence of the injured Paul Pogba and Ngolo Kanté
Striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Chelsea is being pursued by Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, and AC Milan.
Less than five months after moving to Stamford Bridge, the Gabon international’s future with the Blues is in doubt after he was left off of their Champions League roster.
The 33-year-chances old’s of making the first team appear remote as the West Londoners try to bring in a younger squad after signing eight new players in January.
According to the Daily Mail, this has alerted the trio of European powerhouses to the issue around Aubameyang.
Following the marksman’s successful run at the Camp Nou before joining Chelsea, Barca was eager to re-sign him, but financial fair play restrictions dashed those ambitions.
Although Milan and Atletico were also interested, FIFA regulations precluded him from playing for a third team this season.
The former captain of Arsenal started his career at the San Siro, when he scored both at home and away against the Rossoneri during the group stage of the Champions League.
He missed Friday’s 0-0 draw between Chelsea and Fulham because he had been given the weekend off to fly to Milan.
Despite Joao Felix’s loan move to Chelsea, Barcelona are keeping an eye on the Portuguese player for next season.
Joao Felix is temporarily in London. Without finishing his career with Atletico Madrid, the ‘Colchoneros’ sent him to Chelsea in the second half of the season.
Barcelona, prior to his arrival at Stamford Bridge, had been looking to bring him in, even more so when Atletico Madrid and Barcelona agreed on the transfer of Memphis Depay.
Despite being in England, the ‘Cules’ have not forgotten about the Portuguese player. ‘Sport’ explained that Joao Felix is still an option for next season.
The good relationship between the club and Jorge Mendes, the Atletico Madrid player’s agent, could facilitate his arrival at Camp Nou. Everything will depend on Joao Felix’s willingness to come to Barcelona.
Barcelona’s delicate financial situation, however, means that they cannot afford to pay the price that Atletico Madrid are asking. But there could be a swap deal to facilitate his arrival.
Inaki Williams‘ incredible streak of 251 straight LaLiga appearances came to an end when he was forced to miss Athletic Bilbao’s match against Celta Vigo on Sunday due to injury.
Williams, a Ghanaian international, had not missed a league game since the 2015–16 campaign before his exclusion was made official by the team.
Due to the 28-year-unidentified old’s physical issue, head coach Ernesto Valverde was forced to manage without the team’s linchpin.
When Williams participated in the victory over Alaves in October 2021, he broke the previous record of 202 straight games held by former Real Sociedad mainstay Jon Andoni Larranaga.
Williams made his first appearance as a substitute in a 1-0 loss to Atletico Madrid on April 20, 2016, which marked the start of his protracted ever-present stint.
Williams participated in 251 games, taking 456 shots and creating 207 opportunities for 50 goals and 31 assists.
Athletic won 89 of them, lost 84, and tied 78 of them.
Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak recorded the second-most appearances in LaLiga since Williams’ streak of games started, appearing in 240 games until Sunday.
Williams started 212 matches and appeared as a substitute 39 times across his marathon stint for Athletic.
At the Mestalla they are clear they want Saul. Despite the fact it seems complicated, according to ‘Relevo’, ‘Los Che’ are preparing for an offer to persuade Atletico Madrid. They will ask to get him on loan until June 2024 and they are willing to pay a good amount of his salary. They are even willing to forget about signing a winger to be able set aside more money to this deal.
This Friday will be key asAtletico Madrid and Valencia are meeting to talk about Saul’s future. Valencia coach Gennaro Gattuso is keen on him.
Before the start of the January transfer window, ‘Relevo’ says that Valencia had already shown interest in him. Now they are promising to return with another offer.
The previously cited source says that Valencia want to get hold of Saul until 2024, in other words, for the rest of this season and one more. In order to persuade Atletico, Valencia are reportedly willing to pay part of Saul’s salary. It is currently around seven million euros a year.
At the Mestalla, they believe they will be able to get him. They think they would do Atletico a big favour because he hardly has a place in Simeone’s side. In addition, they will pay some of his salary, something which was concerning Atletico.
Valencia want Saul more than anyone else. In fact, according to ‘Relevo’, the club are willing to pass on signing a winger, another of their priorities for January, in order to get the midfielder. The other option on the table is Phillip Billing of Bournemouth, but Gattuso believes that Saul is better for that role.
As for Saul, he is reportedly open to trying his luck at the Mestalla. It remains to be seen what happens with this move which is difficult, but not impossible.
Real Madrid needed extra-time to seal a dramatic Copa del Rey comeback as they downed rivals Atletico Madrid with a 3-1 quarter-final victory on Thursday.
Los Blancos were heading out at the Santiago Bernabeu after their former striker Alvaro Morata had struck in the first half for Atletico.
But Rodrygo’s fantastic solo effort forced an extra half-hour in the Spanish capital, before Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior completed the turnaround for the hosts.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side join Barcelona, Athletic Bilbao and Osasuna in the semi-finals, but Diego Simeone’s visitors will rue missing out on the last four.
Despite an early command of the game, it was the hosts who went behind in the 19th minute when Morata tapped in Nahuel Molina’s square ball from close-range.
Madrid blew a big chance to level matters on the half-hour mark when Eder Militao was caught off-guard by a free-kick delivery and botched a simple header.
Matters went from bad to worse for Ancelotti’s side too after they were forced into a substitution before the break thanks to an injury to Ferland Mendy.
Los Blancos were forced to wait for much of the game to find their response, but their patience paid off in the 79th minute when Rodrygo skipped past four Atletico players before prodding past Jan Oblak at his near post.
Tempers started to fray between both rivals in extra-time, with Stefan Savic dismissed in the 99th minute after two yellow cards in quick succession.
Gifted a man advantage, Madrid seized the chance with Benzema able to guide Vinicius’ rushed effort in past Oblak, before the Brazilian signed off the game with a finish of his own, tucked away after a fine run in off the left wing.
What does it mean? Madrid rally with response
Edged for composure and nous in the first half, Los Blancos looked more energetic than assured after the interval, before Rodrygo managed to bring them back in.
But following Supercopa de Espana heartbreak against Barcelona earlier this month, Ancelotti will be delighted to see his side prove they can still thrive in the pressure situations.
Vinicius offers defiant response
Much of the build-up to Thursday’s match was dominated by the Brazilian after clubs strongly condemned the actions of individuals who hung an effigy of the winger from a bridge.
Though a little nervous throughout the game, he earned his reward right at the end, and drew the biggest roar of the night.
Passive performance pushes Atletico out
Having taken a lead into the half-time break, it was always likely Simeone’s side would sit back and attempt to frustrate their rivals following the interval.
With only 30 per cent of possession in the second 45 however, they allowed themselves to be pushed off the park in the end, and paid the price in extra-time.
Key Opta facts
– Diego Simeone has faced Real Madrid for the sixth time as Atletico boss in a cup game, all of which have gone to extra-time (also Copa del Rey 2013, Champions League 2014 and 2016, UEFA Super Cup 2018 and Supercopa de Espana 2020).
– Molina’s assist for Morata meant he has provided one in his last three games, having not registered one in any of his first 21 games for Atletico in all competitions.
– Savic has been sent off in two of his last three games, as many as in his previous 137 games in all competitions for his club.
– 12 out of 27 goals Rodrygo has scored for Madrid have been in the last 20 minutes of games (44.4 per cent). The Brazilian has scored nine goals this season, equalling his highest tally in a single campaign for Los Blancos (2021-22).
– 17 out of the 37 assists from Vinicius for Madrid have been for Karim Benzema (46 per cent). Only Cristiano Ronaldo (27), Gareth Bale and Luka Modric (18 each) have provided more assists to Benzema than the Brazilian.
What’s next?
Both teams are in LaLiga action on Sunday, with Real Madrid hosting Real Sociedad and Atletico Madrid visiting Osasuna.
Despite the fact that Atletico Madrid appears destined for another season without a trophy, Diego Simeone has underlined his satisfaction with the team.
The Argentine watched as his team lost a one-goal advantage to rival Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals at Santiago Bernabeu, losing 3-1 after extra time.
Atletico’s departure practically puts an end to the season’s chances of winning any trophies; the club is presently fourth in LaLiga, 13 points behind league leader Barcelona, and is also out of Europe.
In his post-match remarks, Simeone reiterated his dedication to the Rojiblancos, stressing he has not yet decided to go on his own.
“I am enormously happy to be at Atletico,” he said. “[I have been] from the day I arrived. I am going to give everything I have until I leave.
“I will give myself a thousand per cent with this team and with the club. Now, I only have [it] in my head to work with joy and enthusiasm.
“I have done that from the day I arrived [and I will do so] until the day [that] I have to go. That will come some day [but not now].”
With the score tied at 1-1 in extra time and Stefan Savic being sent off for receiving consecutive cautions, Atletico finished the game with 10 players.
After the game was done, the Atleti players’ resentment about Dani Ceballos not receiving a second yellow for a foul earlier in the game erupted.
Goalkeeper Jan Oblak claimed that when playing their competitors, the match officials treat his team unfairly and that they should be prepared for such challenges.
“If it is a red for us, it should be a red for them too,” he added. “I think they should have had their second yellow card.
“It’s been decided that way and we’re used to it by now. Even so, we’ve fought to the end against everyone.”
Pablo Barrios has been promoted to the senior team after agreeing to a new contract with Atletico Madrid that runs through 2028.
The 19-year-old came off the bench in a 3-2 loss to Cadiz in LaLiga in October and then played against Porto in the final Champions League group-stage match a few days later.
Barrios has distinguished himself in Diego Simeone’s squad during the World Cup’s midseason break with goals in the Copa del Rey victories over Arenteiro and Real Oviedo.
The teenager made his LaLiga debut in the team’s 2-0 win over Elche last month and was selected to start the 1-0 loss to Barcelona on January 8th.
In total, Barrios has featured in six of Atletico’s seven games across all competitions since the World Cup, four of which have come as a starter.
Barrios joined Atletico’s academy in 2018 from rivals Real Madrid.
🖊 Pablo Barrios extends his relationship with our club until 2028 and becomes a first team player.
Memphis Depay has finalized his transfer from Barcelona to Atletico Madrid.
The international player from the Netherlands, who was permitted to train with Atletico on Thursday, has agreed to a two-and-a-half-year contract at the Civitas Metropolitano.
A player whose contract was set to expire in July will now receive an upfront payment from Atletico of €3 million, with the possibility of an increase to €4 million.
Prior to the 2021–22 season, Depay moved to Barcelona on a free transfer from Lyon. He reunited with former Oranje player Ronald Koeman at the club, although Koeman was fired by the Blaugrana at the end of October 2021.
Xavi was hired a week later and never appeared to have quite the same trust in Depay.
His first 11 LaLiga appearances were all as a starter, but after Xavi’s appointment only nine of his next 17 top-flight outings came from the start.
Depay was hampered by the January 2022 arrivals of Ferran Torres, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Adama Traore.
🇳🇱 Memphis is a new Red & White player! 🔴⚪
🖊 The Dutch international has signed with our club for the remainder of the season and 2 more campaigns.
The addition of Raphinha in the preseason increased competition for positions even though the latter two have since left.
Depay has only played twice in LaLiga this year and hasn’t played since September.
However, Depay is a crucial signing for Atletico.
Joao Felix went on loan to Chelsea, and Matheus Cunha signed a temporary contract with Wolves that, according to reports, has already met the requirements to become a permanent one.
Despite winning neither of their past two games, Atletico are fourth in LaLiga, ahead of Villarreal and Real Betis on goal difference.
Depay could make his debut when Atletico host Real Valladolid on Saturday.
Xavi expects taking “three golden points” off Atletico Madrid to give Barcelona “tremendous morale and confidence” in the LaLiga title race.
Ousmane Dembele scored the only goal of the game at the Civitas Metropolitano on Sunday to put Barca three points clear of Real Madrid at the top of the table.
The Blaugrana defended resolutely to take full advantage of Madrid’s 2-1 defeat at Villarreal on Saturday, Ronald Araujo clearing off the line to deny Antoine Griezmann a stoppage-time equaliser against his former club.
Stefan Savic and Ferran Torres were sent off for a late off-the-ball clash, but that did not take the gloss off a big win for Barca in the absence of suspended striker Roberto Lewandowski.
Barca had been held to a frustrating draw by Espanyol in their first LaLiga game after the World Cup, so Xavi knew the importance of beating Diego Simeone’s side in the capital.
He said: “It’s a victory, but it’s not just three points, it gives us tremendous morale and confidence for the remainder of the league.
“We are capable of winning in a field as difficult as this, suffering, being a family. Without playing as excellently as we did against Espanyol, today we have known how to suffer and we took three golden points. We hit the table to be candidates for this league [title].”
Xavi added: “Three golden points. We have taken advantage of our chance. They have pressed, and we have known how to suffer.
“And how important it is to keep a clean sheet. Just as I said on the Espanyol game that we deserved more, today perhaps without playing so well we got three points.”
Captain Sergio Busquets felt the manner in which Barca dug deep to see out the win bodes well.
He said: “We started well, and we went ahead, but from then on they have pressed very well, it was difficult for us to have the ball and create chances.
“In the second half, although they came out very strongly, we managed to control the game. In the end, we suffered, but three very good points.”
Matheus Cunha has completed his move from Atletico Madrid to Wolves.
Cunha, a Brazil international who joined Atleti from Hertha Berlin in 2021, is the first signing of the Julen Lopetegui era at Molineux.
The 23-year-old has joined on loan, though the transfer will automatically become permanent should certain clauses be triggered.
Lopetegui had already confirmed the transfer on Friday, though the club made the official announcement on Sunday.
Cunha will officially join on January 1, subject to a work permit.
A member of Brazil’s gold medal-winning side at the Tokyo Olympics last year, Cunha scored six goals in 29 LaLiga appearances for Atleti in the 2021-22 campaign, but has failed to find the net this season.
“He’s a good player. I know him, and I think he’s a good signing for us for the present and also for the future,” Lopetegui said of Cunha at his pre-match press conference ahead of Wolves’ trip to Everton.
“He is a very complete forward. He has a good condition, good skills, not only technically but physically. This is England, and in the Premier League you have to be a very complete forward if you want to survive.
“I think he has this profile to play here for a lot of years. Of course, we are going to help him to develop his strengths in the future.”
Capped 22 times by Argentina, Correa was not selected in Scaloni’s initial 26-man squad for the tournament, which kicks off on Sunday, but was among a provisional 55-man list.
Scaloni said on Wednesday that late changes to the squad could be required ahead of their opening game against Saudi Arabia, with FIFA rules allowing changes before a team plays their first match at the tournament.
Fiorentina’s Gonzalez suffered a muscle injury in Thursday’s training session, Argentina announced, with Correa joining the squad ahead of Tuesday’s first game for them in Group C.
Correa has not been a regular starter for Diego Simeone’s Atletico side this season, with 10 of his 14 appearances across all competitions coming off the bench.
Argentina’s campaign at the World Cup also sees them face Poland and Mexico, with the defeated 2014 finalists widely regarded to be among the favourites for this year’s tournament.
Diego Simeone does not care what Atletico Madrid’s fans think of him following their Champions League exit, insisting he is only focused on the future.
The Rojiblancos crashed out of Europe’s premier club competition with 2-2 draw against Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday, in which Yannick Carrasco missed a late penalty.
Third-placed Atleti also trail LaLiga leaders Real Madrid by eight points ahead of a trip to Cadiz on Saturday.
While Simeone acknowledges he needs a response from his side this weekend, the Atleti head coach does not concern himself with the opinions of supporters over his future.
“I feel that we have to play a great game tomorrow, that we have to continue working and giving everything since we arrived,” he stated.
“I don’t think about anything other than what lies ahead. ‘I don’t care what they think of me,’ said a great Spanish writer, I think the same. This does not end today.”
Simeone says his players must not dwell on their Champions League failure.
“Everything goes ahead,” he added. “I still think that the team is doing well, finding what identifies us in the game and being strong.”
The Argentine would not be drawn on video footage of Joao Felix that appeared to show the Portugal international partying in the aftermath of the Leverkusen game.
“I have nothing to say about his private life,” he added. “If I have something to say I would say it to him. I’m not talking about anyone. They are internal things.”
Ghana target Nico Williams was adjudged named Man of the Match after registering an assist for Athletic Bilbao in their 2-2 draw against Getafe in LaLiga on Tuesday.
The 20-year-old put an impressive display as his side secured a point at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez.
His brother Inaki Williams marked his 350th appearance by scoring a second-minute goal after excellent work from former Manchester United and PSG midfielder Ander Herrera.
The goal did no last long as Carles Aleñá equalized for the home side in the 27th minute.
The visitors continued to press Getafe after halftime and it paid off in the 62nd minute. Nico Williams sent a wonderful pass to Raul Garcia who made it 2-1.
Nico Williams was substituted in the 74th minute and replaced by Oier Zarraga.
Getafe shocked the visitors who were cruising to a win. Duarte sent in a ball that found Munir in the 76th minute to make it 2-2.
The draw extended Athletic’s winless run to four games following their goalless stalemate against Atletico Madrid on Saturday and they have now slipped from third to sixth on the table on 18 points from 10 matches, seven behind leaders Real Madrid, who play Elche on Wednesday.
Nico Williams has scored three goals and provided three assists in 10 league games this season.
Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone felt his side paid the price for “not being forceful” enough as a 92nd-minute Radamel Falcao penalty earned Rayo Vallecano a late 1-1 draw on Tuesday.
Alvaro Morata’s first-half strike looked to be enough to give Atletico their fourth straight LaLiga win, despite missing a number of chances to add a second goal.
They were left to rue not taking those opportunities, as the referee awarded a penalty after Jose Gimenez handled in the box from Randy Nteka’s header, before Falcao fired home the penalty to deny his former side the win.
Simeone was frustrated over his side’s inability to kill the game off, telling reporters: “We had good goal situations to score the second and close out the match.
“The second was not scored and we remain in a situation in which they can equalise.
“In the second half we had a lot of counter-attacks to finish the game, we didn’t convert the much-needed second goal and we lost two important points.”
The two dropped points Simeone referenced would have put Atletico just three points behind leaders Real Madrid, and the 52-year-old feels his players must be more ruthless in future.
When asked what his team did wrong against Rayo, Simeone replied: “Not being forceful.
“If you come up against the goalkeeper several times, it has to be a goal.
“You have to improve the forcefulness and train it and when that situation appears, there is the mettle to finish.”
Antoine Griezmann scored his third goal in nine league appearances for Atletico Madrid this season
Antoine Griezmann scored his 100th goal for Atletico Madrid to hand them victory at Athletic Bilbao in La Liga.
The France striker slid an Alvaro Morata cutback into the bottom corner two minutes after the break for his first league goal since re-signing permanently from Barcelona.
Athletic’s Raul Garcia had a late header saved and a shot blocked on the line during a frantic finish.
But Atletico held firm to move above the hosts into third place.
Diego Simeone’s visitors looked to be heading for a comfortable three points before goalkeeper Jan Oblak was forced off 20 minutes from time after suffering a heavy fall.
Athletic threw everything at his replacement, Ivo Grbic, who was forced into a full stretch diving save to keep out Garcia’s header a minute before time.
The hosts then had a penalty for a potential Reinildo Mandava handball ruled out following a VAR check at the start of 10 minutes of stoppage time.
A battling Atletico side had six players booked in total, including three of their substitutes, but held out as Griezmann’s landmark goal sealed a sixth league win of the season.
Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone was emphatic that he has no interest in leaving his post after a decade in charge during his media availability for Wednesday’s Champions League fixture against the red-hot Club Brugge.
Simeone’s side are currently fourth on the LaLiga table, and also fourth in the Champions League’s Group B, trailing Brugge, Porto and Bayer Leverkusen after only scoring two goals total from three games.
A poor result against Brugge could spell the end of Atletico’s Champions League campaign, but with two LaLiga titles and two Champions League final appearances under his belt, Simeone said he understands the ups and downs that come with the job.
“I’m not going anywhere, I’m here,” he said. “I feel I have the same security as always. I was asked the other day if I saw myself somewhere else and my answer was no, absolutely.
“If I imagine that, it is because I am leaving, and I am not leaving, I am here. I hope to convey what I feel and that’s why I’ve been at this club for so many years.
“We know the importance of this game. We need to do well, for that we need to give our best and we need our fans to show up.
“We expected more from the first part of the season, but you always expect that. I see the players with great enthusiasm to improve. This is the way.”
🎙️ Simeone
❝We need to give our maximum on the pitch and we need the fans, because they are an important part of this club❞. pic.twitter.com/FkI9BsaK4T
Simeone also shouldered the blame for the form of Joao Felix, with the 22-year-old forward yet to score this season.
“Everything bad that Joao Felix does, I do it worse because it’s me who is not giving him what he needs to reach his potential,” he said.
“He hasn’t changed at all, his teammates who compete with him are better and the coach understands that.
“Joao is important for the club and for the team. In this campaign he has not found the most important thing for him, the goal, and that causes him frustration.”
Antoine Griezmann is leaving Barcelona to Atletico Madrid after signing a deal that runs through until June 2026.
Madrid have confirmed the permanent signing of Griezmann.
Griezmann returned to Atletico on a two-year loan deal at the start of last season after a couple of relatively underwhelming campaigns at Camp Nou.
Diego Simeone’s side reportedly had an obligation to pay Barcelona €40million if Griezmann played a certain number of minutes, which has restricted his playing time this term.
The France international has appeared in all eight of his side’s LaLiga games, but he has played 30 minutes or under in six of those contests.
However, Atletico announced on their official website on Monday that an agreement has been reached for Griezmann to officially become their player again.
Barcelona sporting director Mateu Alemany said on Sunday that Atletico would pay just under €20m for the 31-year-old.
Griezmann is into his seventh season as an Atletico player across two spells and has made 403 appearances for the club, scoring 144 times in all competitions.
We’re thrilled to announce that Antoine Griezmann has signed a permanent contract until 2026! ❤️🤍 pic.twitter.com/H7B7Gsyreo
Diego Simeone says Atletico Madrid must have “peace of mind” despite their poor Champions League campaign to date following a 2-0 defeat to Club Brugge.
Kamal Soweh and Ferran Jutgla were on target as the surprise Group B leaders made it three wins out of three and left Atleti bottom with three games to play.
Fellow rivals Bayer Leverkusen and Porto also sit on three points alongside the LaLiga club, with Brugge holding a six-point advantage at the summit.
Simeone took the positives out of the loss to the Belgian champions at Jan Breydel Stadium, where Antoine Griezmann missed a penalty.
“It was a game well played,” the Atleti head coach told Movistar. “I think we controlled the game we wanted to play. I’m left with a lot of good things.
“There are a lot of Champions League games left to play. You have to have peace of mind, you don’t have to get anxious. Everything is open.”
We didn’t get the win we were looking for for the Atleti fans who cheered us on from Bruges and from their homes. It’s time to get up and keep working to achieve those victories we all wish for. pic.twitter.com/2wuek0WllG
