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Tag: Man City

  • It has started again – Semenyo speaks out over renewed racism abuse

    It has started again – Semenyo speaks out over renewed racism abuse

    Ghana international forward Antoine Semenyo has reported fresh racial abuse targetting him on social media. The Man City player showcased a stunning display during his side’s match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in London, on Sunday, April 12.

    The recent abuse marks the second time in the 2025/26 English Premier League season.

    Semenyo, who completed the full 90 minutes, later shared a post on Instagram celebrating the victory but was met with a racially abusive comment.

    Responding to the abuse, he wrote: “It’s started again…”, referencing a previous incident in December 2025 during his spell at AFC Bournemouth, when he was targeted following a 4-2 defeat to Liverpool.

    The incident has reignited concerns about the persistent problem of online racism in football, despite ongoing anti-discrimination campaigns across the sport.

    Meanwhile, the Ghana international was subjected to racist abuse during a clash on Friday, August 15, against Liverpool.

    During the first half of the Premier League opener, Semenyo was preparing to take a throw-in when a 47-year-old man made an offensive comment at him. According to reports, Semenyo asked the man to repeat what he said; he did and even threw gum at him.

    Semenyo immediately reported the incident to referee Anthony Taylor, who paused the match in the 28th minute. The suspect was subsequently seen leaving the stadium with police and was later held in custody for a racially aggravated public order offence, according to Merseyside Police on Monday.

    He was, however, granted bail on the condition that he does not attend any regulated football match in the UK and is prohibited from going within one mile of any designated football stadium. A police investigation into the incident is ongoing.

    Reacting to the incident, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, in an official statement issued on Sunday, August 17, said the sport has zero tolerance for discrimination and any form of abuse, praising Antoine’s resilience and strong display despite the emotional distress.

    “It is absolutely unacceptable to see the racist abuse aimed at AFC Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, which led to a stoppage of their Premier League match against Liverpool FC at Anfield last night. Football has no place for racism or any form of discrimination. Antoine’s courage and performance on the pitch, despite such adversity, is a powerful example of strength and dignity for players worldwide,” parts of the statement read.

    Meanwhile, in May last year, FIFA announced that it had put forward a five-pillar plan aimed at addressing racist abuse in football.

    The global governing body stated that it had engaged in an extensive consultation process with current and former players who are committed to instigating change.

    One of the plan’s key suggestions involves implementing a standard crossed-hands gesture for players to signal racist incidents during matches.

    The first pillar of the proposal intends to make racism a specific offence which is included in all member associations’ disciplinary codes and has its own “specific and severe sanctions, including match forfeits”.

    Fifa said it will “pause, suspend and abandon games in cases of racism”.

    The crossed-hands gesture will be used by referees to signal an in-game procedure in which matches are paused twice and warnings are given, with the game to then be abandoned in the event of further racism.

    In pillar three – ‘criminal charges’ – Fifa called for racism to be recognised as a criminal offence in every country, and said it would push for severe sanctions in the countries where it is already an offence.

    Fifa also said it would promote education initiatives with schools and governments to “provide a future free of racism”, while an anti-racism panel made up of former players will be set up to review the progress of the proposal.

    In 2023, a FIFA report found almost 20,000 abusive social media posts were aimed at players, coaches and officials during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

    And in 2021, England manager Gareth Southgate called the racist abuse aimed at Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka after the Euro 2020 final “unforgivable”.

  • It’s obviously tough, but I’m embracing it – Semenyo on life at Man City

    It’s obviously tough, but I’m embracing it – Semenyo on life at Man City

    Ghana international Antoine Semenyo has been phenomenal since he joined Man City in early January. Following his side’s 1-0 win against Leeds on Saturday, February at Elland Road.

    Given his strong start since joining Man City, many believed he had settled in easily and adapted to all play styles, among other things; however, the Ghanaian-British has explained that adjusting to his new surroundings and role has been challenging.

    “It’s a lot, you dream to play at this level. It’s obviously tough, but I’m embracing it. It’s pretty different, I’m usually just a wide man, but I’m adapting, and I’m just doing whatever I can for the team,” he added while speaking in his post‑match interview.

    Semenyo notched the winner for Man City after his composed finish of Rayan Aït‑Nouri’s low cross in the 45+2 minute (first‑half stoppage time).

    Reflecting on the match, Semenyo described the goal as a milestone in his City career.

    “Definitely [my most important goal for City]. Every game is important, happy for the win, but still a lot of games to go, so we just need to keep going. All we can do is win our games,” he said.

    The 26-year-old now boasts 14 goals and four assists from 27 Premier League appearances this season.

    In the Premier League, he has made 27 appearances, scoring 14 goals and providing 4 assists, showing his consistency in England’s top flight. In the FA Cup, he has played 2 matches, contributing 1 goal and 1 assist, while in the EFL Cup, he has appeared 3 times and scored once.

    Altogether, across all competitions, Semenyo has played 32 matches, delivering 17 goals and 5 assists. This tally highlights his strong impact in a relatively short time, underlining both his adaptability and importance to City’s attack.

    He will look to extend his impressive form when Manchester City host Nottingham Forest at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night.

    Before his move to Man City, he had attracted the attention of several European clubs, including Manchester United, Liverpool, and Real Madrid. However, little to no news emerged about his move to Man City, and he eventually completed the switch.

    Addressing these links during an interview with Sky Sports, which aired on October 30, Semenyo said he had seen the reports but denied the purported links, adding that he was enjoying his stay at Bournemouth.

    “I don’t think about it too much,” he said. “I try to stay present as much as I can. You see the news all the time; I see it as well. I’m not oblivious, but I try to keep focused. I’m enjoying my football here. If I’m not scoring goals, all of that goes away. I try to stay present, do the best I can for the team, score goals, and whatever happens in the future happens.”

    Semenyo explained that he was convinced to stay after being encouraged by the club’s vision and summer recruitment.

    “When they all left in the summer, there was a lot of interest and back and forth with the club. But I knew in my head that the manager had something up his sleeve this year.

    “How we finished off the season last year was so good, and we could continue, especially with the players we’ve brought in as well. I wasn’t too sure at the start, but we’ve kicked on like a house on fire. I’m glad I committed to staying here because I’m enjoying every moment,” he added.

    With his impressive form at his new club, Ghana’s former Sports Minister Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuye says he is hopeful that Semenyo can replicate his club form for the Black Stars as the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches.

    Speaking during an interview with Citi Sports on Thursday, February 5, the National Coordinator for the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP) stated that the striker still has more to prove in national colours.

    “I would just pray that he’s able to transfer whatever he’s doing with Manchester City to the Black Stars… up to now, he’s not been able to convince Ghanaians so much about his prolific performance when it comes to the Black Stars.”

    Since making his Ghana debut in 2022, Semenyo has featured at the 2022 World Cup and the 2023 AFCON, earning 32 caps and scoring three goals.

    He continued that Semenyo’s roots in England could be a big motivation for him to outdo himself during England’s game with Ghana Black Stars.

    “You know he was born in England, and I think it is good… that is enough motivation for him to perform better when he plays the English,” he added

    With the World Cup drawing closer, attention is steadily turning to Semenyo and his Black Stars teammates as Ghana looks to make a strong impression on the global stage.

  • I hope he replicates his club form with the Black Stars – Vanderpuye on Man City’s Semenyo

    I hope he replicates his club form with the Black Stars – Vanderpuye on Man City’s Semenyo

    Ghanaian prodigy Antoine Semenyo is making strides at his new club, Manchester City. He scored in his debut and assisted during his side’s game against Exeter City.

    According to statistics, he has notched 12 Premier League goals this season and 14 for Man City, with a recent one in a clash against Wolves.

    With his impressive form at his new club, Ghana’s former Sports Minister Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuye says he is hopeful that Semenyo can replicate his club form for the Black Stars as the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches.

    Speaking during an interview with Citi Sports on Thursday, February 5, the National Coordinator for the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP) stated that the striker still has more to prove in national colours.

    “I would just pray that he’s able to transfer whatever he’s doing with Manchester City to the Black Stars… up to now, he’s not been able to convince Ghanaians so much about his prolific performance when it comes to the Black Stars.”

    Since making his Ghana debut in 2022, Semenyo has featured at the 2022 World Cup and the 2023 AFCON, earning 32 caps and scoring three goals.

    He continued that Semenyo’s roots in England could be a big motivation for him to outdo himself during England’s game with Ghana Black Stars.

    “You know he was born in England, and I think it is good… that is enough motivation for him to perform better when he plays the English,” he added

    With the World Cup drawing closer, attention is steadily turning to Semenyo and his Black Stars teammates as Ghana looks to make a strong impression on the global stage.

    In a related development, Ghana’s head coach Otto Addo is expected to release the final squad list for the 2026 World Cup in June next year.

    This was confirmed by the Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, in an interview with Accra-based radio station Asempa FM on December 15. He stated that ahead of the official squad announcement, a provisional list is expected to be released by all qualified nations on May 11, with the final squad to be released on June 1.

    “All qualified teams, including the Black Stars of Ghana, are mandated by FIFA to announce their provisional squad on April 11, 2026. The final squads for the tournament must be announced before midnight on June 1, 2026,” he said.

    He added that Ghanaian players performing well domestically or abroad will all be considered for selection.

    “Every Ghanaian player with a strong performance is closely monitored by the technical team, and regardless of where they play, they will be given a call-up,” Asante Twum noted.

    Drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia, Ghana will be looking to improve on previous campaigns at the global tournament, which will be co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

    The Black Stars will open their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, before facing England in Boston on June 23. Their final group match against Croatia is scheduled for June 27 in Philadelphia.

    Next year’s tournament will mark Ghana’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest stage, having previously competed in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022. The team’s most memorable run came in 2010, when they reached the quarter-finals in South Africa.

    Ghana’s World Cup campaign will begin against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, followed by a clash with England in Boston on June 23, before concluding the group stage against Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.

    Ghana’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup represents its 5th appearance at the global tournament, having previously competed in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022. The Black Stars’ most memorable run came in 2010, when they reached the quarter-finals in South Africa.

    They will open the tournament with a clash with Panama on 17 June, take on England on 23 June, and conclude the group stage against Croatia with their matches scheduled to be held in Toronto, Foxborough, and Philadelphia.

    The Black Stars are set to play against England, Croatia, and Panama. This was revealed after the group draw was conducted on Friday at the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C, The high-profile ceremony attended by notable attendees, including President Donald, entertainers like Kevin Hart, Heidi Klum, and sports icons like Tom Brady, Shaquille O’Neal, Rio Ferdinand and Ghana’s legendary footballer, Asamoah Gyan.

    Speaking during a media engagement, the former Ghanaian footballer expressed optimism about the team’s chances in the group. He acknowledged that although it is a bit tricky, he is confident Ghana will make it through successfully.

    Meanwhile, Sports Minister, Kofi Adams, has announced a new twist in supporters’ sponsorship by the government for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament, which will be hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

    Past governments have mostly offered some form of financial support, be it full or partial, for supporters who travel to attend the World Cup. However, it has become a challenge over the years due to financial constraints.

    Consequently, in early November last year, Kofi Adams noted that, although it has been a long-standing practice, he “doesn’t recommend” it.

    However, in a recent radio interview on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show in Accra on February 5, he acknowledged the tradition of sponsoring fans to support the Black Stars, adding that it is for that reason that his outfit has set up a fundraising committee.

    “The policy that we should take for fans is clear. It is clear that we should work at it, and that is why we have set up a fundraising committee. The number we would take ultimately will depend on how much we raise,” he stated.

    He explained that the government seeks to sponsor some Ghanaian fans for the 2026 World Cup so Ghana will have strong support at the tournament.

  • Pep Guardiola gushes over Semenyo, hails him as incredible

    Pep Guardiola gushes over Semenyo, hails him as incredible

    Semenyo has won the hearts of City fans and management, including Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola. Antoine Semenyo joined Manchester City on 9 January 2026 from Bournemouth and has been in good form since.

    In his debut appearance, he notched a goal and provided an assist during Man City’s FA Cup clash with Exeter City on January 10. He scored again in his second appearance on January 21 in the Premier League clash against Newcastle United. His latest goal came on January 24 in the Premier League clash with Wolves, scoring in the 45+2 minute to make his mark at his new club.

    Reacting to his display, Guardiola, following the Wolves game, praised the Ghanaian forward for his energy and productivity since joining the club.

    “Absolutely. They are set-up players. Last season, it was young players [who we brought in] except Omar. Semenyo made an incredible impact at Bournemouth. Antoine came with incredible energy, and strikers are about numbers. Since he arrived, he has been unbelievable. [It was an] incredible goal,” Pep said.

    Semenyo will be hoping to sustain his strong start in City colours when they face Galatasaray in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday.

    Before his move to Man City, he had attracted the attention of several European clubs, including Man Utd, Liverpool and Real Madrid. However, little to no news emerged about his move to Man City, and he eventually moved there.

    Addressing these links during an interview with Sky Sports, which aired on October 30, Antoine mentioned that he had seen the reports but denied the purported links, saying he was enjoying his stay at Bournemouth.

    “I don’t think about it too much,” he said. “I try to stay present as much as I can. You see the news all the time; I see it as well. I’m not oblivious, but I try to keep focused. I’m enjoying my football here. If I’m not scoring goals, all of that goes away. I try to stay present, do the best I can for the team, score goals, and whatever happens in the future happens,” he noted.

    Semenyo explained that he was convinced to stay after being encouraged by the club’s vision and summer recruitment.

    “When they all left in the summer, there was a lot of interest and back and forth with the club. But I knew in my head that the manager had something up his sleeve this year.

    “How we finished off the season last year was so good, and we could continue, especially with the players we brought in as well. I wasn’t too sure at the start, but we’ve kicked on like a house on fire. I’m glad I committed to staying here because I’m enjoying every moment,” he added.

    Semenyo has scored six goals and provided three assists in just 10 Premier League matches. According to The Telegraph, AFC Bournemouth reportedly rejected £50 million offers from both Man Utd and Spurs for Semenyo during the summer transfer window.

    Antoine’s form has been consistent even during international games. Last season, he scored six goals in nine appearances and provided three assists. His only contender this season has been Man City’s Erling Haaland, who has a higher goal tally than Semenyo.

    Despite interest from top European clubs, he decided to stay at the Vitality Stadium, signing a new long-term contract that included a pay rise. His contract with Bournemouth was set to expire in 2026; however, in July, he extended it until 2030.

    Meanwhile, the Ghana international was subjected to racist abuse during a clash on Friday, August 15, against Liverpool.

    During the first half of the Premier League opener, Semenyo was preparing to take a throw-in when a 47-year-old man made an offensive comment at him. According to reports, Semenyo asked the man to repeat what he said; he did and even threw gum at him.

    Semenyo immediately reported the incident to referee Anthony Taylor, who paused the match in the 28th minute. The suspect was subsequently seen leaving the stadium with police and was later held in custody for a racially aggravated public order offence, according to Merseyside Police on Monday.

    He was, however, granted bail on the condition that he does not attend any regulated football match in the UK and is prohibited from going within one mile of any designated football stadium. A police investigation into the incident is ongoing.

    Reacting to the incident, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, in an official statement issued on Sunday, August 17, said the sport has zero tolerance for discrimination and any form of abuse, praising Antoine’s resilience and strong display despite the emotional distress.

    “It is absolutely unacceptable to see the racist abuse aimed at AFC Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, which led to a stoppage of their Premier League match against Liverpool FC at Anfield last night. Football has no place for racism or any form of discrimination. Antoine’s courage and performance on the pitch, despite such adversity, is a powerful example of strength and dignity for players worldwide,” parts of the statement read.

  • You have to match our energy to beat us – Jeremy Doku

    You have to match our energy to beat us – Jeremy Doku

    Manchester City has had an incredible form this season, with back-to-back wins, recording their very recent win in their clash with Liverpool on Sunday, November 9, yesterday at the Etihad Stadium.

    They thrashed the title holders in a 3-0 clash, focused on themselves, not on what other teams like Arsenal are doing.

    Jeremy Doku, who was awarded man of the match after being awarded a penalty and sealing City’s win, has noted that, until other clubs match their energy this season, he is certain his side cannot be beaten.

    They believe they’re improving step by step, and even though they were happy with their performance against Liverpool, they know they still need to keep getting better every game.

    “We’re just looking at ourselves. We have been building, and we know that we can still improve. The performance that we delivered [against Liverpool], we’re very happy, but we still have to improve every game. And we know that if we are playing well, it’s difficult to stand next to us”, Doku said.

    Man City’s coach Pep Guardiola, during a post-match conference, announced his side’s readiness to contend with Arsenal for the title this season as Arsenal currently sits about three (3) points clear of City on the Premier League table.

    Asked whether City were focused on Arsenal’s form and their position at the top, he responded, “We’re not really looking at Arsenal, though. What the other teams are doing, because at the end of the day, we know that it depends only on us. “

    Doku is enjoying his best season at City since arriving from Rennes in 2023.

    The 23-year-old has three goals already, including his stunner against Liverpool, which is only five behind his season-best tally of eight. While he is on course to break that record, the Belgium international insists that he’s not focused impressed by statistics. On his part, his definition of a bad game is not in numbers but when he feels he was ineffective in a game.

    “I don’t do that, because I think those come from themselves. I just work to have more of that, but I’m not a player that’s going to look after a game and say, ‘you didn’t score, you didn’t assist, you had a bad game. I’m not that type of player. A bad game is for me if I don’t touch the ball, if I’m not effective or if I lose a lot of balls; that’s a bad game. If I didn’t score today, would I have said this is a bad game? No, I would have said this is a good game. That’s how I am and how I’m going to be,” he continued.

    Meanwhile, City moved to within four points of leaders Arsenal at the top of the table thanks to goals from Erling Haaland, Nico González and Jérémy Doku.

    The result against Liverpool came 24 hours after Mikel Arteta’s side drew 2-2 with Sunderland, and Guardiola said afterwards it felt like a significant performance against the current champions.

    “I think Liverpool and us said ‘oh wow, Arsenal dropped points finally and conceded two goals. But in the end, we have to do it, and I said to the players. Don’t do it because yesterday Arsenal didn’t win. Do it because we believe in ourselves that we can play against the champions of England and show them we are ready to be there with them this season,” said Guardiola.

    He added, “Today, we proved it. We did it.”

    Guardiola went on to praise Jeremy Doku for his stunning display during the match. He won a penalty earlier in the 13th minute of the match when Doku made a trademark dribbling run into the Liverpool penalty area.

    “He [Doku] is demanding himself to be better, he listens, and he has special attributes with dribbling,” said Guardiola.

    Guardiola was impressed with the Belgian, particularly after Liverpool right-back Conor Bradley had such a good game against Real Madrid winger Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday.

    “Today, Conor [Bradley], the right-back of Liverpool, I’m really, really impressed

    “Pep Lijnders told me a thousand incredibly good things about that guy. He can do everything. I know the game against [Real] Madrid, how good [he was] against Vinícius.

    “And he [Doku] handled it. He was aggressive, quick without the ball, and we tried to help him. He played an outstanding game.”

    Victory over Liverpool was the perfect way for Guardiola to celebrate his 1,000th game as a manager.

    “Thank you to the players and staff for giving me an incredible present against the most important opponent we faced in my time here,” said Guardiola.

    “It has been nice playing against them and seeing Virgil [van Dijk], [Andy] Robertson, and Mohammed Salah after all the battles we have had.

    “It has been a special night with my kids here.”

    Meanwhile, Liverpool’s 0–3 defeat to Manchester City on 9 November was their 5th loss in 11 Premier League matches since the start of the 2025/26 season.

    Their coach, Arne Slot, jokingly made remarks that his squad have been very consistent this season in terms of losing games.

    They played Brentford some days before their City clash on Sunday at the Etihad Stadium. They suffered a 2–3 defeat at the Gtech Community Stadium, prompting a reaction from former Man Utd forward and the club’s all-time leading goal scorer, Rooney.

  • Pep’s midfield in trouble as Rodri’s replacement suffer injury

    Pep’s midfield in trouble as Rodri’s replacement suffer injury

    Pep Guardiola’s midfield has recorded another setback as Rodrigo Hernández’s replacement, Nico González suffered an injury which saw him limp off the pitch about ten minutes after the second half.

    This was after Man City’s 2-0 away win over Villarreal in the Champions League on Tuesday, after Haaland and Bernardo Silva’s goals.

    Erling Haaland opened the scoring for Manchester City in the 17th minute, giving them a 1-0 lead. Bernardo Silva then doubled the advantage with a header in the 40th minute, sealing the 2-0 win before halftime.

    González has been filling in for fellow Spaniard Rodri, who is currently sidelined by a hamstring injury after missing most of last season with ACL damage.

    Mateo Kovacic came on as a substitute for González in the 56th minute, having only recently returned from an Achilles injury that led to the Croatia midfielder being sidelined for the last five months.

    Pep Guardiola hopes it isn’t an injury that will sideline him or keep him out for long.

    “It was a knock on his foot. Hopefully it’s nothing.”

    Guardiola couldn’t hide his excitement about his side’s win, notably the goals by Erling and Bernardo, which made him say, “I’m pleased Erling scored again and pleased Bernardo scored as well, with his head. I remember it was a bit like [Lionel] Messi. It is like a hammer. 

    “They have a hammer in the neck. They are small but so good with the head contact. I am pleased with the win. They had some good chances, and Villarreal is a top team. The vibe is good, and the first half was really good. We scored in the right moments and we made a good threat.”

    Their win last night ended a run of five away games without a win in the Champions League. 

    Guardiola’s City currently holds a record of an unbeaten run in all competitions. It is a healthy position for a team that struggled last season and failed to make the round of 16.

    “The difference with last season is that we had [injured] players in the hospital,” said Guardiola. “We had 15 or 16 players, and they were getting tired after 70 minutes and needed to play every three games.”

    Next up is a trip to Aston Villa on Sunday, when Haaland will look to score for the seventh straight Premier League game.

    Meanwhile, Man City defensive midfielder and 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, Rodrigo Hernández Cascante, was substituted during his side’s clash with Brentford on Sunday, just 23 minutes into the game.

    Marking his 6th (sixth) match since his injury comeback, the British footballer had to be sent off after developing discomfort in his hamstring. He signalled to his coach, Pep Guardiola, and the bench to be substituted. He was later seen limping off the pitch when Pep replaced him with his Spanish compatriot Nico González.

    Speaking in a post-match interview with Sky Sports at the Gtech Community Stadium, London, Rodri noted that “he felt a little bit in the hamstring, but it seems as though it’s not that much.” Rodri told “I stretched a bit, like in the final of the Euros [when he had to go off injured]. But the most important thing is it’s not that big.”

    Commenting on Rodri’s injury, Pep described him as an important player who they can’t risk missing out on for long, hence their swift response to his substitution request. He said the injury isn’t that serious, hence he wouldn’t be gone for long.

    “It’s muscular, so two weeks or three weeks [out],” said City manager Pep Guardiola after the game.

    “Of course, I don’t want to lose him even a little because he is such an important player. We tried to take care of him, but it is what it is,” the manager said.

    This comes after Rodri was sidelined for over 200 days in September last year after undergoing surgery to repair the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee after he suffered the issue, which also affected the meniscus, in a Premier League clash with Arsenal.

    He returned in late May 2025, where he played his first post-return match on May 20, against Bournemouth in the Premier League and later played all four matches for the Club World Cup cameo.

    After initially returning to action at the end of last season, Rodri has been building up his fitness in recent weeks as he bids to return to the form that saw him win the Ballon d’Or last year.

    City are used to having to cope in Rodri’s absence, and they did so again as Erling Haaland’s ninth-minute goal proved enough for them to earn all three points via a 1-0 victory in west London.

    Speaking on Friday ahead of the game in west London, City boss Pep Guardiola warned it could take most of the season for Rodri to get back to his best.

    Rodri played an hour of Wednesday’s 2-2 Champions League draw in Monaco after sitting out City’s two previous fixtures, with Guardiola having to carefully manage his star midfielder.

    Meanwhile, before Rodri’s return, football injury expert Ben Dinnery cautioned Manchester City against forcing Ballon d’Or winner, Rodri, back to the pitch as he recovers from the knee injury.

    Earlier scheduled to make an appearance in June, he joined his teammates in May instead. Given his recent sideline after the hamstring discomfort, it appears Ben’s prediction was nothing far from the truth.

    His warning followed Pep’s announcement of Rodri’s return to training, though not vividly disclosing his comeback before the close of the season, despite being ruled out for the whole season.

    Rodri picked up a knee injury in September during a clash with Arsenal.

    He told Casino Apps: “We’ve seen Rodri working on the training pitch. Sometimes we have to take what Pep Guardiola says with a pinch of salt. He can be very elusive when responding about a player’s recovery, but if we look at the facts, is a return this season without risk?

    Ben Dinnery was not in favour of Rodri’s seeming rush return, warning of recurring injury. He said, though Pep hasn’t stated the time for the 28-year-old player, he wouldn’t be surprised to see Rodri return this season.

    On his part, the player is likely to pick up another injury if he is not allowed to recover fully.

    He quizzed, “What are Manchester City pushing for? “We’ve seen Rodri working on the training pitch. Sometimes we have to take what Pep Guardiola says with a pinch of salt. He can be very elusive when responding about a player’s recovery, but if we look at the facts, is a return this season without risk?

  • I wanted to feel loved again! – Why Grealish left Man City

    I wanted to feel loved again! – Why Grealish left Man City

    Former Man City midfielder has displayed incredible form since he joined  Everton about a month ago. He has won about two Man of the Match awards already, admitting a tactical freedom he has earned with the Toffees, which is bringing out the best in him.

    Speaking during an interview with SkySports’ Tim Sherwood, the England forward, though admitting his off-field lifestyle affected his form and effectiveness on the pitch, stressed that that was not entirely the case.

    One of the major things that affected him was an emotional disconnect at Etihad, hence his move to his current club. According to him, he is most effective in an environment where he feels loved and welcomed.

    “I’m at my best when I feel loved. You know, I’m quite vulnerable off the pitch, and I wanted to go somewhere to just feel the love again and just wake up with a smile on my face and want to play again,” he added.

    Jack’s last days at Etihad are generally described as difficult. For one who is normally listed as a starter in Pep’s squad, particularly in key matches, Grealish began losing his spot, leading to his starting in just seven matches out of 38 Premier League matches in the 2024/25 season, with two youngsters, Jeremy Doku and Phil Foden, taking his spot with more energy and finishing.

    Pep, during a media conference, addressed concerns raised about Grealish’s limited time, and he said, 

    “You have to fight with Savinho—the impact he has had this season is amazing. Jeremy Doku is incredible, a top player as well. Phil Foden can play on the left as well; that’s the point. It’s never against a player from my point of view. It’s OK, accept the challenge, prove you are the best.”

    He also added:

    “I want much more… This is the level I would like to see from Jack. But it has not been like that”. While he never publicly addressed Jack’s dip in form to his off-field lifestyle, it is reported that Guardiola warned Grealish privately about his off-field activities, suggesting they could affect his form and future at the club, which subsequently did.

    While at Man City, some pundits blame his slump in form on Pep, for trying to mould Grealish into a possession-heavy, disciplined winger, which clashed with his natural free-flowing style. Analysts noted he became a “shadow of his best self” as he was asked to prioritise ball retention over flair.

    However, under the leadership of Moyes, Everton’s coach, Jack says the tactical freedom he’s found has reignited his spark. 

    “I don’t mean this in an arrogant way, but I do like it when managers say, ‘you’re the footballer, go and do what you want to do.’

    “Obviously, you have your jobs. You have your roles to do without the ball and set pieces, but he says to me, ‘when you get the ball, just go and do what you want to do.’”

    Grealish is next in action when Everton face West Ham in the Premier League at their new Hill Dickinson Stadium on Monday night.

    Jack Grealish officially joined Everton on August 13, 2025, on a season-long loan from Manchester City at a reported fee of £15 million for the season.  Since joining Everton, he has provided 4 assists in 5 league games, after which he won Man of the Match vs Brighton & Wolves, earning praises for his creativity and tempo control. He currently has an average rating of 7.48, the highest among Everton midfielders.

    Jack Grealish joined Man City in 2021 in a £100m deal from Aston Villa, which was described as the most expensive in the history of football at the time. Jack Grealish spent a total of 19 years at Aston Villa, including his youth and senior career. He joined the club’s academy in 2002 at the age of six and remained there until 2021.

    Grealish signed a six-year deal with Man City; however, before the expiry of the contract, he dipped in form, which led to his being sidelined and omitted from Pep Guardiola’s squad for the FIFA Club World Cup after being told he would struggle for opportunities next season.

    Before being axed for the Club World Cup, he was omitted from the matchday squad for the final game of the Premier League season against Fulham.

    Grealish has been with the club for four seasons, from 2021 to 2025. During his stint at City, he scored 17 goals in 157 appearances across all competitions.

    He played a significant role in Manchester City’s success, including their treble-winning campaign in the 2022–23 season, and contributed to three consecutive Premier League titles.

    Meanwhile, Everton was the first club to make a formal approach for Grealish, although there has been other interest from the Premier League and Europe since the transfer window opened.

    According to reports, clubs from both the Premier League and Europe, including West Ham, Napoli, Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, AC Milan, and Aston Villa.

    Jack Grealish was reported to be training alone about a month ago despite his return to Manchester City.

    In early June, he was omitted from the squad for the FIFA Club World Cup after being informed by the club that he could leave.

    According to reports, his exit was by mutual agreement, signalling that a summer exit was being prepared.

    Since then, Grealish has been training individually while awaiting a transfer, with interest from clubs like West Ham, Napoli, and Everton.

    Despite interest from multiple clubs, he remains at the Etihad while a deal is explored.

    According to sources, the club seeks a permanent sale, but it’s reported that a more realistic option remains a loan spell, given Grealish’s wages and valuation.

  • Grealish admits off-field lifestyle affected form at Man City, but not the reason

    Grealish admits off-field lifestyle affected form at Man City, but not the reason

    Jack Grealish has finally broken his silence after he departed from Man City in August after a hard season at the treble winners’ side.

    Normally listed as a starter in Pep’s squad, particularly in key matches, Grealish began losing his spot. 

     Leading to his starting in just seven matches out of 38 Premier League matches in the 2024/25 season, with two youngsters, Jeremy Doku and Phil Foden, taking his spot with more energy and finishing.

    Pep, during a media conference, addressed concerns raised about Grealish’s limited time, and he said, 

    “You have to fight with Savinho—the impact he has had this season is amazing. Jeremy Doku is incredible, a top player as well. Phil Foden can play on the left as well; that’s the point. It’s never against a player from my point of view. It’s OK, accept the challenge, prove you are the best.”

    He also added:

    “I want much more… This is the level I would like to see from Jack. But it has not been like that”.While he never publicly addressed Jack’s dip in form to his off-field lifestyle, it is reported that Guardiola warned Grealish privately about his off-field activities, suggesting they could affect his form and future at the club, which subsequently did.

    In an interview with SkySports, Tim Sherwood,  the British player, admitted that his off-field activities were part of the decline in performance, but stressed that it was not entirely the case.

    Living a more balanced life could have produced a different story, he said, but his timing was not always the best. And his off-field lifestyle, partying, and trips are to enjoy life to the fullest.

    “People go, ‘he likes to go out, he likes to party,’ and I do. I want to be able to live my life and enjoy myself, but obviously, there’s a time and a place to do that. Sometimes, I’ll be honest with you, I probably haven’t picked the right times. At City, I didn’t help myself at times, I’ll openly say that, but then I don’t think it was all down to that, ” Grealish said.

    However, his main reason for leaving Etihad was that he wanted to feel loved again. He felt disconnected while at Man City, which in turn affected his effectiveness, as he is at his best when he feels loved.

    “I’m at my best when I feel loved. You know, I’m quite vulnerable off the pitch, and I wanted to go somewhere to just feel the love again and just wake up with a smile on my face and want to play again,” he added.

    While at Man City, some pundits blame his slump in form on Pep, for trying to mould Grealish into a possession-heavy, disciplined winger, which clashed with his natural free-flowing style. Analysts noted he became a “shadow of his best self” as he was asked to prioritise ball retention over flair.

    However, under the leadership of Moyes, Everton’s coach, Jack says the tactical freedom he’s found has reignited his spark. 

    “I don’t mean this in an arrogant way, but I do like it when managers say, ‘you’re the footballer, go and do what you want to do.’

    “Obviously, you have your jobs. You have your roles to do without the ball and set pieces, but he says to me, ‘when you get the ball, just go and do what you want to do.’”

    Grealish is next in action when Everton face West Ham in the Premier League at their new Hill Dickinson Stadium on Monday night.

    Jack Grealish officially joined Everton on August 13, 2025, on a season-long loan from Manchester City at a reported fee of £15 million for the season.  Since joining Everton, he has provided 4 assists in 5 league games, after which he won Man of the Match vs Brighton & Wolves, earning praises for his creativity and tempo control. He currently has an average rating of 7.48, the highest among Everton midfielders.

    Jack Grealish joined Man City in 2021 in a £100m deal from Aston Villa, which was described as the most expensive in the history of football at the time. Jack Grealish spent a total of 19 years at Aston Villa, including his youth and senior career. He joined the club’s academy in 2002 at the age of six and remained there until 2021.

    Grealish signed a six-year deal with Man City; however, before the expiry of the contract, he dipped in form, which led to his being sidelined and omitted from Pep Guardiola’s squad for the FIFA Club World Cup after being told he would struggle for opportunities next season.

    Before being axed for the Club World Cup, he was omitted from the matchday squad for the final game of the Premier League season against Fulham.

    Grealish has been with the club for four seasons, from 2021 to 2025. During his stint at City, he scored 17 goals in 157 appearances across all competitions.

    He played a significant role in Manchester City’s success, including their treble-winning campaign in the 2022–23 season, and contributed to three consecutive Premier League titles.

    Meanwhile, Everton was the first club to make a formal approach for Grealish, although there has been other interest from the Premier League and Europe since the transfer window opened.

    According to reports, clubs from both the Premier League and Europe, including West Ham, Napoli, Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, AC Milan, and Aston Villa.

    Jack Grealish was reported to be training alone about a month ago despite his return to Manchester City.

    In early June, he was omitted from the squad for the FIFA Club World Cup after being informed by the club that he could leave.

    According to reports, his exit was by mutual agreement, signalling that a summer exit was being prepared.

    Since then, Grealish has been training individually while awaiting a transfer, with interest from clubs like West Ham, Napoli, and Everton.

    Despite interest from multiple clubs, he remains at the Etihad while a deal is explored.

    According to sources, the club seeks a permanent sale, but it’s reported that a more realistic option remains a loan spell, given Grealish’s wages and valuation.

  • Man City bid farewell to back-up goalkeeper Scott Carson

    Man City bid farewell to back-up goalkeeper Scott Carson

    Manchester City have parted ways with cult hero goalkeeper Scott Carson after his over 5-year stint with the UEFA giants.

    The 39-year-old, who joined the club in 2019 in a two-year loan deal from Derby County, after which he signed a four-year contract on July 20, 2021, is set to leave by the end of June, as his contract expires on the 30th.

    Carson is now leaving Manchester City after six seasons, making just two appearances for the club.

    The veteran shot-stopper was always aware that he would be filling a backup role in Manchester.

    The club confirmed Scott’s exit in an official statement confirming Scott Carson’s departure on Monday, June 9.

    “Scott Carson will leave Manchester City when his contract expires this summer. The 39-year-old has been at the Club since 2019, acting as a valued part of the goalkeeping unit.”

    “During his time at City, Carson has been praised by goalkeeping coach Xabi Mancisidor and peers Ederson and Stefan Ortega Moreno for his work ethic and the effect of his positive attitude amongst the group,” the statement read.

    It continued with praises for the legendary keeper for his contributions to the dressing room, especially while with Pep Guardiola.

    “He has been part of a squad that has lifted 12 major honours over the last six seasons during what has been a historic period of success for Pep Guardiola’s team, “parts of the statement continued.

    The club wished Scott well, stating, “Everyone at Manchester City would like to thank Scott for his hard work and dedication and wish him the very best of luck for the future.”

    His only competitive outings for City came in a Premier League clash with Newcastle in May 2021 and a Champions League last-16 encounter with Sporting the following season.

    Carson has been a popular figure behind the scenes throughout his time with the Cityzens.

    According to The Telegraph, City are currently eyeing Chelsea keeper Marcus Bettinelli as Carson’s replacement. The 33-year-old is the third choice at Stamford Bridge, with just one appearance – in a 2022 FA Cup clash with Chesterfield – under his belt.

    City are eager to get Bettinelli on board before the 2025 Club World Cup, with a “small fee” required in order to land the experienced custodian, who was called into Gareth Southgate’s England squad in 2018 during his time at Fulham.

  • I will quit if you give me a huge squad – Guardiola threatens club

    I will quit if you give me a huge squad – Guardiola threatens club

    Pep Guardiola has expressed frustration over Man City’s swelling squad, which is affecting player selection.

    He has threatened to quit as Manchester City manager if the club gives him a huge squad size to select from next summer.

    Speaking during a post-match conference after Manchester City’s 3-1 victory against Bournemouth, he aired this grievance.

    “I said to the club I don’t want that [a bigger squad]. I don’t want to leave five or six players in the freezer. I don’t want that. I will quit. Make a shorter squad, and I will stay.”

    A number of Man City’s senior players were not included in the squad for Tuesday’s 3-1 win against Bournemouth, and Guardiola says he is unhappy at leaving so many players out.

    Abdukodir Khusanov, Savinho, James McAtee, Claudio Echeverri, and Rico Lewis all missed out on Tuesday’s 20-man matchday squad as City moved to third in the Premier League and within a point of Champions League qualification.

    He expressed that it’s “not in my soul” to tell players they won’t be playing.

    Guardiola says it is “impossible for my soul” to leave players watching from the stands.

    “Maybe [for] three or four months we couldn’t select 11 players; we didn’t have defenders; it was so difficult. After people come back, but next season it cannot be like that,” the 54-year-old added.

    “As a manager, I cannot train 24 players, and every time I select, I have to have four, five, or six stay in Manchester at home because they cannot play. This is not going to happen. I said to the club. I don’t want that.”

    When asked if it meant more exits were inevitable, Guardiola – who signed a deal keeping him at the club until 2027 – said, “It is a question for the club. I don’t want to have 24, 25, or 26 players when everyone is fit. If I have injuries, unlucky, we have some players for the academy, and we do it.”

    Guardiola said a big squad is unsustainable and that it is important for “the soul of the team” that his players “create another connection with each other that this season we lost it a bit.”

  • Why the rush? Injury expert warns City over Rodri’s ‘forced’ injury return before season end

    Why the rush? Injury expert warns City over Rodri’s ‘forced’ injury return before season end

    A football injury expert, Ben Dinnery, has cautioned Manchester City against forcing Ballon d’Or winner, Rodri, back to the pitch as he recovers from a serious knee injury.

    His warning follows Pep’s announcement of Rodri’s return to training, though not vividly disclosing his comeback before the close of the season, despite being ruled out for the whole season.
    Rodri picked up a knee injury in September during a clash with Arsenal.

    He told Casino Apps: “We’ve seen Rodri working on the training pitch. Sometimes we have to take what Pep Guardiola says with a pinch of salt. He can be very elusive when responding about a player’s recovery, but if we look at the facts, is a return this season without risk?

    Ben Dinnery is not in favour of Rodri’s seeming rush return, warning of recurring injury. He said, though Pep hasn’t stated the time for the 28-year-old player, he wouldn’t be surprised to see Rodri return this season.

    On his part the player is likely to pick up another injury if he is not allowed to recover fully.

    He quizzed, “What are Manchester City pushing for? “We’ve seen Rodri working on the training pitch. Sometimes we have to take what Pep Guardiola says with a pinch of salt. He can be very elusive when responding about a player’s recovery, but if we look at the facts, is a return this season without risk?

    Data would tell you there is a possibility of reinjury and further setbacks when returning within the nine months thereafter; that said, players have returned in those timelines and been fine. You have to look at the risk and reward of the situation”.

    The City talisman picked injury just 16 minutes into the game after a collision with Arsenal’s Thomas Partey. After the collision, he tried to continue playing; however, after some minutes, he signalled the bench for a substitution because he couldn’t carry on any longer.

    Though the injury expert ruled out the possibility of the midfielder starting any remaining league games, he could be listed for the FA Cup Final squad if Man City secure a top-four finish early.

    “If they secure that top-four position with games to go, you can probably forget about him returning in them. You certainly cannot rule out his return to the matchday squad for the FA Cup Final, but do I see him starting? Probably not. The current City squad have gained a bit of form, the pressure for Pep to take a chance on Rodri has decreased, so it’s difficult to say. There’s a handful of games left, but could he be involved? Absolutely.”

  • Inter Miami drop pursuit of Man City’s De Bruyne

    Inter Miami drop pursuit of Man City’s De Bruyne

    Inter Miami have stepped aside in the race to sign Kevin De Bruyne, clearing the way for Chicago Fire to lead the pursuit of the departing Manchester City midfielder should he opt for a move to Major League Soccer.

    Miami had previously held exclusive negotiation rights with the 33-year-old through MLS’s ‘discovery list’ system, but sources have confirmed to BBC Sport that the club has chosen not to initiate talks before the mid-July deadline.

    As a result, a potential reunion with Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Sergio Busquets in Florida is now off the table.

    With Miami out of the picture, Chicago Fire now hold the priority to negotiate with De Bruyne, who announced in April that he would be leaving City at the end of the season when his contract expires.

    Reports suggest his representatives are preparing to meet with the MLS club, who currently sit 11th in the Eastern Conference standings.

    The Belgian midfielder, who expressed surprise at not receiving a contract extension from City, departs after a decorated spell at the Etihad.

    His time in Manchester has seen him collect 16 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and a Champions League crown in 2023.

  • Police arrest 20-year-old man who slapped Jack Grealish after Man City-Utd clash

    Police arrest 20-year-old man who slapped Jack Grealish after Man City-Utd clash

    A man has been charged following an alleged attack on Manchester City midfielder Jack Grealish at Old Trafford on Sunday.

    The incident took place after City’s Premier League match against Manchester United, which ended in a 0-0 draw. It is reported that Grealish was slapped in the face by a man near the tunnel as both teams were leaving the pitch after the game.

    City has not made any comments regarding the matter. However, United officials told ESPN that the club is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

    Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that 20-year-old Alfie Holt from Droylsden has been charged with assault. He is scheduled to appear in Manchester Magistrates Court on July 14.

    A GMP statement read: “This charge relates to an incident which took place at Old Trafford Football Club on Sunday, April 6, 2025.”

    Following the derby, City manager Pep Guardiola accused United fans of a “lack of class” after derogatory chants were directed at Phil Foden’s mother.

    City sources said they had been shocked by the number of fans involved in the chants while sources close to United said they condemn “abusive chants against all players.”

    The worst Man United and Man City teams in decades offer a poor Manchester derby to match

    “Lack of class; but it’s not United, it’s the people,” Guardiola said when about the chants.

    “We are so exposed, people who are on the screen in world football — managers, owners, and football players especially.

    “It is honestly, I don’t understand in the mind of the people involving the mum of Phil, being involved in that.

    “It’s a lack of integrity, class, and they should be ashamed, but it is what it is; it’s happening everywhere, I would say, not just in the UK.”

  • Pep slams Man Utd fans for ‘lack of class’ chants toward Foden

    Pep slams Man Utd fans for ‘lack of class’ chants toward Foden

    Pep Guardiola has criticized a group of Manchester United fans for showing a “lack of class” after they directed offensive chants at Manchester City’s Phil Foden during Sunday’s 0-0 draw at Old Trafford.

    Foden, 24, who had a quiet performance, was substituted by City manager Guardiola in the second half. The England midfielder, who grew up supporting City in Stockport, was one of just two local players in the match, alongside City’s Nico O’Reilly.

    Despite his local connection, Foden endured derogatory chants from the United fans, to which he responded by giving them a thumbs-up. Guardiola expressed disappointment, suggesting that the behavior of these fans reflected troubling trends in today’s society.

    “Lack of class,” Guardiola said when asked about the chants aimed at Foden. “But it’s not United, it’s the people, you know?

    “We are so exposed in the screen in world football — managers, owners, and football players especially. Honestly, I don’t understand the mind of the people involving the mum of Phil. It’s a lack of integrity, class, and they should be ashamed.”

    Manchester City’s draw in the game means they remain in fifth place in the Premier League, holding onto the final Champions League spot, just one point ahead of Aston Villa. Villa will visit the Etihad on April 22.

    Newcastle, currently in seventh place, are only two points behind City, having played two fewer games. If they win their upcoming match against struggling Leicester City, they could move ahead of City into the fifth spot.

    Despite the pressure of potentially missing out on the Champions League, Guardiola stated that he is not worried about the team’s chances of qualifying.

    “Nothing,” Guardiola said when asked his thoughts about finishing in the top five. “All that is important is our next game, against Crystal Palace.

    “We will prepare for the upcoming games. There are a few things I’m happy with what I saw, but now we need to achieve the target of qualifying for Champions League, then next season is next season.”

  • We don’t deserve any bonuses this season – Pep

    Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has stated that neither the players nor staff deserve summer bonuses following what he considers a disappointing season.

    Despite still being in contention for silverware in the FA Cup and FIFA Club World Cup—where the winner takes home £97 million ($125m)—City’s overall performance has fallen short of expectations. They currently sit fifth in the Premier League with nine games remaining and failed to progress beyond the Champions League round of 16.

    Guardiola maintains that even if the club secures trophies, their struggles throughout the campaign do not merit additional financial rewards.

    “We don’t deserve it this season,” Guardiola told a news conference on Friday. “We don’t deserve a bonus this season. The bonus, if you win, I don’t know how much. You go there, it’s for the club. The managers, the backroom staff, the players we don’t deserve. Not even a watch.”


    City return from the international break with an FA Cup quarterfinal against Bournemouth on Sunday.

    There was speculation that the break for international matches could provide a window for a verdict to be delivered in the Premier League’s case against the club.

    It’s now set to drag on and Guardiola raised the possibility that it could be another month before a decision is made public.
    “We are more than one year with that so nothing changes with one more week or two more weeks or three more weeks or four more weeks,” he said.

    Guardiola’s immediate focus is securing a place in the FA Cup semifinals for the seventh consecutive time before shifting his attention to Wednesday’s Premier League clash against Leicester City at the Etihad Stadium.

    With Manchester City set to compete in the Club World Cup in the U.S., their season could extend into July. Guardiola has also hinted at the potential return of Rodri, who has been out of action since September due to a knee injury.

    “I hope,” Guardiola said. “Listen, it would be nice if he could play tomorrow, but don’t do a wrong decision right now, you know and make a step back. He’s behaving really well on the pitch already, but competition is completely different. We will see.”

  • Man City and Chelsea set to make about £97m from Club World Cup

    Man City and Chelsea set to make about £97m from Club World Cup

    Manchester City and Chelsea stand to receive as much as £97 million in prize money from this year’s FIFA Club World Cup, making it one of the most lucrative club tournaments in football history.

    The total prize fund for the competition is £775 million, distributed among the 32 participating teams based on various factors. Of this, £407 million will be shared equally among all clubs, while £368 million will be awarded based on performance throughout the tournament.

    For comparison, last season’s Premier League prize money ranged from £175.9 million for champions Manchester City to £109.7 million for Sheffield United, who finished bottom of the table.

    FIFA’s ranking system, which considers both sporting success and commercial appeal, determines the amount each team earns simply for participating. European clubs, in particular, will receive a higher share than teams from other continents.

    The top-ranked European team will earn £29.6 million just for taking part. If that team wins all its group-stage matches and goes on to lift the trophy, it could secure the maximum prize of £97 million.

    Prize money per stage:

    • Group-stage win: £1.5 million
    • Round of 16 qualification: £5.8 million
    • Quarter-finals: £10.2 million
    • Semi-finals: £16.3 million
    • Final victory: £31 million

    As a result, Manchester City and Chelsea, the two Premier League representatives in the competition—having qualified through their Champions League triumphs—have the opportunity to claim the biggest prize money ever awarded in a seven-game format.

    This year’s Club World Cup will be hosted in the United States from June 15 to July 13.

    Previously an annual tournament featuring seven teams, the competition has now been expanded to 32 teams and will be held once every four years.

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the new prize distribution as a reflection of the tournament’s status as “the pinnacle of club football.”

    The competition will feature clubs from all six football confederations, including:

    • UEFA (Europe) – 12 teams
    • CONMEBOL (South America) – 6 teams
    • AFC (Asia) – 4 teams
    • CAF (Africa) – 4 teams
    • CONCACAF (North & Central America) – 4 teams
    • OFC (Oceania) – 1 team

    The 12 European spots are allocated based on Champions League performances over the past four seasons, making UEFA the most represented confederation in the tournament.

    With high stakes and a record-breaking prize pool, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup promises to be one of the most competitive and financially rewarding editions in history.

  • WSL: Referee apologised – Nick Cushing after goal error

    WSL: Referee apologised – Nick Cushing after goal error

    Manchester City coach Nick Cushing has revealed that match officials apologized to him after a controversial decision denied his team a goal in their 2-1 loss to Chelsea in the Women’s Super League (WSL).

    City took the lead through Kerolin, and they could have doubled their advantage when Jess Park scored after Kerolin was fouled near the penalty area. However, referee Kirsty Dowle blew the whistle for a free kick before allowing the play to continue, meaning Park’s goal did not count.

    Chelsea took advantage of the situation, with Aggie Beever-Jones equalizing before Erin Cuthbert scored a late winner at the Etihad Stadium.

    “The officials admit they got it wrong and should have played on,” Cushing said after the match.
    “The frustrating thing is after the [Laura] Coombs foul earlier on, because we were so dangerous on the counter attack when the whistle was blown on Coombs I asked her to play advantage. But three minutes later, it happens.”

    Chelsea boss Sonia Bompastor sympathised with Cushing’s frustrations but praised her side for their tenacity in the second half.

    “From my opinion, the referee whistled since the beginning, even when the ball was not going into the goal so I think she made the right decision and it’s difficult after when you see the result,” she said. “So I can understand their frustration.

    “If I was the City manager I would probably be in the same place. But again, I don’t think it changed our belief going into the second half. We created a lot in the second half, 24 shots on goal, their keeper made really great saves, we could maybe have scored more.”

  • Pep Guardiola hails Brighton as one of the top clubs in football ahead of clash

    Pep Guardiola hails Brighton as one of the top clubs in football ahead of clash

    Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has shared his thoughts ahead of their upcoming match against Brighton this weekend.

    Following a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest in their last game, Guardiola is eager for his team to return to winning ways. Meanwhile, Brighton is in great form, having won their last six matches.

    Speaking at a press conference, the Spanish coach praised Brighton for their smart approach to signing players and managers, as well as their impressive style of play. A victory in this match could help City climb into the top four.

    “I think Brighton are one of the best clubs working on and off the pitch,” said Guardiola.

    “I think they started with Graham Potter, they made a step forward again under Roberto De Zerbi, and now with this exceptional young manager who’s doing incredibly good things.

    “It’s not a surprise I’d say, because they’re doing really, really well in the transfer market and the way they play.

    “They’re absolutely one of the toughest opponents and in the past there are many teams who were in the middle positions or bottom or whatever, but they make an incredible step up in terms of organisation and consistency for many, many years, that’s the reality.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MJQWKFoL1u8

    “It’s not a secret what they’ve been doing. They’re in this position because they’re doing good things, they deserve to be (where they are) in the table.”

    He next spoke about the rise of Brighton and other teams from the middle of the league who are challenging for European spots this season. Guardiola named five sides who he thinks could rival City until the end of the season. 

    “And Bournemouth, and Aston Villa, and Newcastle, and maybe Fulham. Fantastic teams,” he said. “Not a surprise. I had the feeling that they deserve it. They are really good, consistent, they have incredible weapons in the way they play.

    Guardiola has admitted that he is not upset about Manchester City’s elimination from the Champions League after their defeat to Real Madrid. He acknowledged that his team is no longer in the competition and has accepted the outcome.

    He also shared his thoughts on Atletico Madrid’s controversial exit, where Julian Alvarez’s penalty was ruled out because he made two touches before the ball went in.

    “It doesn’t hurt. I don’t have any disappointment. We don’t deserve to be there,” he said. “I Enjoy football for the fantastic games. I am just a spectator to learn and enjoy. I don’t have any feeling that it’s a pity to be out.

    “There are incredible teams like Atletico, Liverpool who are out. This competition, what happened with Julian (Alvarez) and Atletico – the margins. Can you imagine you are out of the Champions League for that reason? Atletico were brilliant with the style they played against Madrid but look at that and seasons being good or bad are judged on that.

  • Pep’s focus now is to secure Champions League qualification after Man City’s difficult season

    Pep’s focus now is to secure Champions League qualification after Man City’s difficult season

    Pep Guardiola has described securing Champions League qualification as a major success for Manchester City this season.

    With 10 games remaining, the reigning champions find themselves in fifth place in the Premier League, having struggled with injuries to key players. Notably, Ballon d’Or winner Rodri has been sidelined since September, adding to the team’s challenges.

    Despite these setbacks, Guardiola insists that finishing in the top four would be a remarkable achievement given the difficulties his squad has faced.

    “Qualification for the Champions League would be a big success but you have to win it,” Guardiola said.

    “I want to qualify for the Champions League. It will not be good [if City miss out] but I saw what happened with other teams in the past in the Premier League.

    “Not being in the Champions League would be a problem but there are teams who didn’t qualify who have come back and are there.”

    City could finish fifth and still qualify for the Champions League. The strong performances of English teams in UEFA competitions means the Premier League is on course to be awarded an extra Champions League place.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KeLzU4XI2fQ

    It could offer a safety net to City, but Guardiola has said it won’t matter if his team cannot build a winning run between now and the end of the season.

    “Whether there are five or six or seven [places], you have to win games,” he said.

    “In sport, in knockout games sometimes details make the difference but in the Premier League over 38 games if you are not able to finish in the first four or five it is because we were not good enough.”


    Manchester City will face Brighton, who sit in sixth place, at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday as they aim to recover from their 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest.

    Following the defeat, Pep Guardiola expressed concerns about his team’s sluggish ball movement, while defender Rúben Dias suggested that the dry pitch at the City Ground may have contributed to their struggles.

    “With the pitch dry it makes things a bit more difficult,” Dias said.

    “Last season here, Fulham was again. It depends on the weather as well and good will from everyone to make the game fast.

    “We’re still there, try to look for the spaces. They have a low block and we need to be as versatile as we can to look for the spaces. Because the spaces will be there one way or the other. Always looking to do something better.”

  • FFP Case: Ex-Man City captain explains 3 reasons why relegation would be a huge surprise

    FFP Case: Ex-Man City captain explains 3 reasons why relegation would be a huge surprise

    A former Manchester City captain has weighed in on the club’s ongoing Financial Fair Play (FFP) case, stating that relegation from the Premier League would be a “major surprise.”

    Speculation continues to swirl around the reigning champions as they await a verdict on their long-running FFP saga. With at least 115 charges leveled against them, various potential punishments—including demotion from the top flight—have been widely discussed.


    Ex-City skipper Richard Dunne is not convinced that Pep Guardiola will be working in the EFL next season, telling GOAL when speaking in association with William Hill Vegas: “I wouldn’t have thought so. Setting aside whether they are found guilty or not – if they were to be found guilty, the damage it would do to the Premier League, in terms of demoting Man City, would be too much. It all comes down to what the result is.

    “But City are a superpower in the Premier League and a team that the Premier League needs and a team that the opposition wants in the league and to play against. It would be a major surprise if something like that was to happen to them.”

    Pressed further on whether a big points deduction could be in the pipeline for City, which would place their Champions League qualification hopes under serious threat, Dunne added: “Yeah. What has gone previously has been fines and points deductions – for the clubs that have been found guilty of any breaches. It’s been that level of sanction.

    “I would imagine that if man city it will be something along the lines of a fine or whatever. I don’t think it’s going to be a demotion. Maybe a transfer ban or something like that. It’s all speculation because the whole process has been too long and very secretive. Nobody really knows what anybody else is thinking.”

  • Rodri set for possible return this season – Pep

    Rodri set for possible return this season – Pep

    Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has suggested that Ballon d’Or winner Rodri could make a return to action before the season concludes.

    On Friday, the club shared footage of the Spain midfielder in training, sparking excitement among fans just hours before City secured their spot in the FA Cup quarter-finals with a victory over Plymouth Argyle.

    Despite the buzz, club officials remain cautious, refusing to set a definite timeline for Rodri’s comeback. However, given his absence has been deeply felt—City currently sit fourth in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by 20 points after suffering eight league defeats—it’s no surprise that his potential return has stirred anticipation.

    For the first time since Rodri sustained a serious knee injury against Arsenal in September, Guardiola has expressed optimism about the 28-year-old’s chances of featuring again this season. With the FIFA Club World Cup on the horizon in June, his return would be a major boost for City.

    “The fans must know they are not the only ones who are excited,” said the City boss. “It’s been five months or six months.

    “But [it’s] one step at a time. We don’t have to make stupid decisions [for him] to come weeks earlier. He’s not close to coming back, but he’s touching the ball and is in the locker room.

    “He feels confident and happy.

    “I could not expect before [him to return] before the end of the season, not even for the [Club] World Cup, but maybe it’s going to happen.”

    Guardiola also confirmed defender Nathan Ake will have more tests on a problem he fears might keep the Netherlands international out for some time.

    “He struggles sometimes with the feet,” he added. “It’s been like this the whole season with the central defenders.”

    Ake, 30, has been restricted to 18 appearances so far this season due to a succession of short-term injuries and was taken off at half-time against Plymouth.

    Fellow defenders John Stones and Manuel Akanji also missed the FA Cup win through injury.

  • LaLiga’s Javier Tebas reports Man City to EU over alleged financial irregularities in 2023

    LaLiga’s Javier Tebas reports Man City to EU over alleged financial irregularities in 2023

    LaLiga president Javier Tebas has disclosed that he lodged a formal complaint against Manchester City with the European Commission, accusing the club of financial irregularities.

    Speaking at the Financial Times’ “Business of Football” summit on Thursday, Tebas stated that the complaint was filed in 2023 and is currently under investigation.

    Manchester City has not issued an official response, but a source informed ESPN that the club strongly refutes the allegations.

    A spokesperson for the EU Commission confirmed to ESPN that LaLiga’s complaint had been submitted, adding that they “cannot comment on ongoing assessments.”

    “City have a lot of companies in their group which lie outside the City Football Group structure, extra companies where they put their expenses,” he said.

    “These other companies lose the money but not the club itself. We have reported Manchester City to the EU. We have the facts and figures.

    “We asked for City to be checked. It’s very important that all clubs are subject to the same transparency rules and governance on both the sporting and financial side.

    “The City case is one where we believe they have put the losses on the companies that are not officially part of City Football Group.”

    “Do you remember the case in the United States? The Enron case. What they did, they got their losses and they put them into different companies. Well, it’s a similar case.”

    “They [City] have a scouting company, a marketing company. That’s where they have very high expenses. They invoice City for less money. City have costs that are less than if they didn’t have this circle of companies around,” he added.

    City are already ensnared in another legal battle as they refute charges of breaking over 100 Premier League financial rules.

  • Man City’s Pep Guardiola unsure if Haaland will be fit for Spurs clash

    Man City’s Pep Guardiola unsure if Haaland will be fit for Spurs clash

    Manchester City face an anxious wait over Erling Haaland’s fitness ahead of their Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday, manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed.

    The prolific striker, who has scored 27 goals across all competitions this season, sustained a knee injury during City’s 4-0 win over Newcastle on February 15. As a result, he was absent from Sunday’s 2-0 home defeat to Liverpool, which left City in fourth place with 44 points.

    “Tonight we will know after training,” Guardiola told reporters on Tuesday of Haaland’s prospects of playing against Spurs. “I hope so, but we don’t know yet. He feels better but we will see tomorrow.”

    Despite Manchester City’s struggles this season, Pep Guardiola insists that rebuilding the squad will not be the toughest challenge of his career. He emphasized that he has successfully revamped the team multiple times over the past nine years.

    Currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, City trail leaders Liverpool by 20 points and have suffered early eliminations from both the Carabao Cup and the Champions League. This season, they have already recorded eight league defeats—matching their total losses from the previous two seasons combined.

    To reinforce the squad, City invested £180 million ($223 million) in the January transfer window, bringing in Omar Marmoush, Vitor Reis, and Abdukodir Khusanov. With an average age of 21.6 years, these young talents are expected to play a crucial role in the next chapter of Guardiola’s project.

  • Owner of Caen FC Mbappé visits his struggling club on day off after hat rick

    Owner of Caen FC Mbappé visits his struggling club on day off after hat rick

    Kylian Mbappé, as the owner of Stade Malherbe Caen, made an unexpected visit to the struggling Ligue 2 club on Thursday.

    The Real Madrid star, who became Caen’s majority shareholder last summer, used his day off in Spain to travel and support the team. With the club facing possible relegation, he met with the coach and players to boost their confidence.

    “I want to show my support,” Mbappé told reporters. “To be in contact with everyone and for them to know that they can count on me, and especially in the situation we’re in.

    “If I’m here it’s because I believe in the project. I wanted to come earlier but it was impossible. I told them [the team] that I was with them and that they had to believe. And I saw a group that is not resigned and wants to change the results.”

    Mbappé’s visit came just two days after the club’s decision to sack manager Bruno Baltazar on Tuesday and appoint Michel Der Zakarian as his replacement.

    Baltazar, who had only taken over the job in December following the sacking of Caen great Nicolas Seube, failed to turn results around.

    Caen are winless since Nov. 2 and Monday’s 1-0 defeat at Annecy FC was their ninth straight league loss.
    Mbappé discovered early on how challenging ownership is with Caen fans upset over the dismissal of Seube.

    In the team’s first game of 2025, Caen fans displayed a banner aimed at the Real Madrid star that read ‘Mbappé SMC is not your toy!’

    Despite the French team’s dismal form, Mbappé, who scored a hat trick in Madrid’s 3-1 win against Manchester City in Wednesday’s Champions League game, is not giving up hope.

    “I think that with the quality of the team and the support of the fans, things can change and I hope that this is a turning point,” he said on Thursday.

    “In football, we have seen that nothing is impossible. There is a lack of confidence, but I think that a good run of results can change the team’s spiral.

    “I understand the frustration of the people, as I have told them personally, because I have not been through this before. It is normal to be angry, but the people support, fill the stadium and our mission is to give our best.”

  • Pep ‘afraid’ Man City have little chance of winning playoff round against Real Madrid

    Pep ‘afraid’ Man City have little chance of winning playoff round against Real Madrid

    Pep Guardiola admits that Manchester City have a very slim chance—just “1%”—of staying in the Champions League as they prepare to face Real Madrid in the second leg of their playoff round on Wednesday in Spain.

    Real Madrid, who won their 16th Champions League title by beating Borussia Dortmund in last season’s final, secured a 3-2 victory at the Etihad last week. They scored twice in the final minutes, overturning a 2-1 lead that had been given to City by Erling Haaland’s two goals.

    Manchester City now face a tough challenge, as they have only won once at the Bernabéu—a 2-1 win in the round of 16 back in February 2020. To stay in the competition, they must find a way to defeat Carlo Ancelotti’s side on their home turf.

    Guardiola, who has coached Barcelona and Bayern Munich in the past, admits the task ahead is extremely difficult. However, he remains hopeful that City still have a slight chance of making it to the next round.

    “The margin to win in Bernabéu in that position [3-2 down], everybody knows that if you ask before the game, the percentage to go through, I don’t know, we arrive at 1%, or I don’t know what,” Guardiola said.

    “It will be minimal, but as much as you have a chance, we will try, that’s for sure, you know? “The chance is minor because the result was not good — five minutes ago, with 2-1, it would be different.

    “But with 2-3, the chance is less, but as much as you have a chance, we are going to take it, and we’ll see what happens.”
    City have endured their worst season since Guardiola took charge in 2016 during this campaign, losing 12 games in all competitions and surrendering their title hopes by mid-season.

    And the City coach admits that, while this season has been hugely disappointing, Saturday’s 4-0 home win against Newcastle could provide a springboard for a recovery going into final weeks of the campaign.

    “Listen, there are many, many games that we didn’t play the level we play, and at the end, we lost it,” Guardiola said.

    “And that was not just the three points, it’s how it is affecting our minds for the next game. “It happened a lot of times. This season, the reality is that we have been miles, miles away.

  • That was a huge motivation – Real Madrid’s Vini Jr on Man City Ballon d’Or banner

    That was a huge motivation – Real Madrid’s Vini Jr on Man City Ballon d’Or banner

    Vinícius Júnior revealed that a banner displayed by Manchester City fans motivated him to deliver an outstanding performance in Real Madrid’s 3-2 comeback victory in the Champions League on Tuesday.

    Before the match at the Etihad, City supporters unveiled a banner featuring midfielder Rodri holding the Ballon d’Or trophy, which he won ahead of Vinícius last year. The banner also included the phrase “Stop Crying Your Heart Out,” referencing a song by Oasis.

    Vinícius responded in style, playing a key role in Madrid’s win. He was named UEFA’s Player of the Match after assisting Jude Bellingham’s dramatic 92nd-minute winner with a perfectly placed lob over City’s goalkeeper, Ederson.

    “I saw [the banner],” Vinícius told Movistar. “But when opposition fans do things, it always gives me more strength to play a great game, and here I did that. … [City] know our history, and everything we’ve done in this competition.”

    Madrid boycotted the Ballon d’Or ceremony in October last year, in protest of Vinícius missing out on the trophy.

    “I don’t know if Vini saw it,” coach Carlo Ancelotti said in his postmatch news conference. “But having seen the game, if he saw it, it was a big motivation for him.”

    Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola said he was unaware of the banner but admitted that Vinícius is “an extraordinary player.”

    Meanwhile, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti believes his team has a “slight advantage” in the tie after their 3-2 victory, with the second leg set to take place next week at the Bernabéu.

    “This is the way,” Ancelotti said. “We’ve been talking about it for a long time. The season really starts now, and despite all our difficulties, we’ve got a very good result.

    “The four at the back [Raúl Asencio, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Federico Valverde and Ferland Mendy] had never played together or even trained together, and they had a spectacular game. … From this emergency, we got something good.”

    Ancelotti said he expected two more senior defenders –– Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba — to be available for the second leg.

  • “It feels like a Clásico now” – Carlo Ancelotti on Real Madrid-Man City clash

    “It feels like a Clásico now” – Carlo Ancelotti on Real Madrid-Man City clash

    Carlo Ancelotti has likened the rivalry between Manchester City and Real Madrid to a Clásico, as the two European giants prepare to clash once again in the Champions League. This marks their fourth consecutive meeting in the competition, with the Italian coach predicting that the winner will have a strong chance of advancing deep into the tournament.

    Unlike their previous encounters in the semifinals and quarterfinals—where Madrid triumphed in 2022 and 2024, while City prevailed in 2023—this season’s showdown takes place in the knockout playoff round after both teams had underwhelming group stage performances.

    Heading into the first leg at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, City are struggling domestically, currently sitting fifth in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Madrid top LaLiga but are dealing with a defensive injury crisis, missing key players such as Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, and David Alaba.

    With both teams facing their own challenges, this high-stakes encounter promises another thrilling chapter in their growing Champions League rivalry.

    “It feels like a Clásico now, because we’ve played them now for many years,” Ancelotti said in his pre-match news conference in Manchester on Monday. “I still think City are one of the best teams in Europe. City have the best coach [Pep Guardiola] in this competition. It’s one of the most difficult games you can have … And the same goes for us, we’re competitive, despite the emergency we face.”

    In 2022, Real Madrid triumphed over Manchester City with a 6-5 aggregate victory in the Champions League semifinals. During the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid staged a thrilling comeback, scoring all three of their goals in added time to win 3-1.

    When the two teams faced off again in the 2024 quarterfinals, it took a dramatic penalty shootout to decide the match. Madrid ultimately emerged as Champions League winners in both instances, while Manchester City claimed the title in 2023 after knocking out Madrid.

    “It’s the most difficult rival, the most important rival, and the best manager,” Ancelotti said. “The team that goes through to the next round has the possibility to go far in the competition. In the last years, the team that won this tie, won the Champions League.”
    Ancelotti said facing Guardiola’s City is “always a headache.”

    “He’s a coach who always tries to bring something new to his team,” Ancelotti said. “He’s done a lot for football in terms of possession, pressing, playing out from the back. He’s an innovator. I have a lot of respect for him … It’s always a nightmare preparing for the game.”

    In 2022, forward Rodrygo starred when the two teams met, scoring twice in a minute to see Madrid progress.

    “I was talking two or three days to [midfielder] Fede Valverde, about the game against City,” Rodrygo said.

    “I asked him if we’d ever feel that emotion again. It was the most special night of my career … Sometimes I’ve been happy playing against [City], other times not so much. I’m in good form and I can be decisive. But I try to be decisive in every game, not just against City.”

  • “Nowhere near the required level” – Jack Grealish told amid alleged talks of possible return to Aston Villa

    “Nowhere near the required level” – Jack Grealish told amid alleged talks of possible return to Aston Villa

    Jack Grealish has faced harsh criticism, with his boyhood club Aston Villa reportedly unwilling to consider re-signing him amid his ongoing struggles at Manchester City.

    The England international midfielder, who became the most expensive player in British football history with his £100 million ($124 million) transfer to the Etihad Stadium in 2021, has enjoyed a trophy-laden spell, winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup titles with City.

    Despite these achievements, Grealish’s performance has been questioned, with only two goals recorded this season.

    Critics have noted that he no longer seems to glide past defenders as he once did, and securing a starting position under Pep Guardiola has proven challenging.


    Grealish is now 29 years of age and has seen a move elsewhere speculated on. Quizzed by GOAL on whether he could return to his roots in the West Midlands, ex-Villa striker Stan Collymore – speaking in association with William Hill Vegas – said: “No. I sincerely hope not. I think Jack’s output is nowhere near the required level.

    “If you look at the two players that have been brought in, [Marco] Asensio and [Marcus] Rashford, they can play either side of Ollie Watkins. There is a question mark over both – can they do it, will they do it? They have got pedigree.

    “Jack, really, going to Manchester City and being a part of the treble-winning team – even then he wasn’t the main man, that was Kevin De Bruyne. He was good but not great. Last season, a stat of scoring one goal in just over a year… I don’t think he goes past people any more. [Jeremy] Doku when he first came into the team did that, [Omar] Marmoush you imagine will do that.”

  • Man City lists ‘injured’ Rodri in Champions League squad

    Man City lists ‘injured’ Rodri in Champions League squad

    Manchester City have updated their Champions League squad for the knockout phase, including injured midfielder Rodri along with new signings Omar Marmoush, Nico González, and Abdukodir Khusanov.

    However, Vitor Reis, who joined in January for €35 million ($36.2m) from Palmeiras, has been left out.

    Marmoush, González, and Khusanov are all set to be eligible for the upcoming playoff tie against Real Madrid, which starts next week.

    City, who finished 22nd in the league phase table, will host LaLiga giants Real Madrid in the first leg at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, with the second leg scheduled for February 19 at the Bernabéu.

    Rodri will be absent from both games as he continues to recover from a knee injury sustained in September. Nevertheless, his inclusion in the squad suggests he might return before the season concludes.

    The Ballon d’Or winner has expressed hope to be fit for the FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off in the U.S. in June.

    City manager Pep Guardiola has advised Rodri to take his time with the recovery and avoid rushing back.

    UEFA rules allowed City to make three changes to their squad ahead of the knockout rounds. With four new signings in January, the club opted to omit Reis from their list.

    The 19-year-old defender, yet to make his debut since moving from Brazil, was named on the bench for both the 3-1 win over Chelsea and the 5-1 defeat to Arsenal.

  • Man City tops chart as club that spent the most in January transfer window – FIFA data

    Man City tops chart as club that spent the most in January transfer window – FIFA data

    Global transfers during the January window exceeded $2 billion (£1.6bn) for the first time in men’s football, with Premier League champions Manchester City contributing 10% of the total spend, amounting to $223 million (£179m) on four new players, according to FIFA data.

    Pep Guardiola’s squad at the Etihad Stadium was strengthened by the additions of Omar Marmoush, Nico González, Abdukodir Khusanov, and Vitor Reis during the January transfer window.

    This helped solidify the Premier League’s status as the highest-spending league with a total outlay of $621.6 million (£498.7m).

    Following the Premier League, the top five spenders were clubs from Germany ($295.7m), Italy ($223.8m), France ($209.7m), and Saudi Arabia ($202.1m).

    On the receiving end, French clubs collected the highest amount in transfer fees at $371 million, followed by German clubs ($226.2m), English clubs ($185.2m), Portuguese clubs ($176.4m), and Italian clubs ($162m).

    Brazil led the way with the highest number of incoming transfers (471), followed by Argentina (265), Portugal (207), Spain (200), and England (190).

    Argentina also topped the list for outgoing transfers (255), with Brazil (212), England (211), the United States (188), and Portugal (170) completing the top five.

    A total of 5,863 transfers were completed, marking a 19.1% increase from January 2024, which was the previous record, according to a report by FIFA’s Legal & Compliance Division.

    The overall spending of $2.35 billion was 57.9% higher than the 2024 winter window and 47.1% above the prior record set in January 2023.

    The most significant transfer of the window in men’s football was Jhon Duran’s $79.9 million (£64.1m) move from Aston Villa to join Cristiano Ronaldo at Saudi Pro League team Al Nassr.

    In the women’s game, new records were also set, with $5.8 million (£4.66m) spent on transfer fees (+180.6%) and a total of 455 international transfers in January.

    English clubs were the top spenders in women’s football as well, with $2.3 million in spending and 39 incoming transfers. January 2025 also marked the first transfer window in women’s professional football to witness transfer fees exceeding $1 million (£802.9k).

  • Man City welcome Porto midfielder Gonzalez

    Man City welcome Porto midfielder Gonzalez

    Manchester City have completed the signing of Porto midfielder Nico Gonzalez for €60 million (£50 million).

    The 23-year-old Spaniard becomes City’s fifth acquisition of the winter transfer window, agreeing to a four-and-a-half-year deal with the Premier League champions.

    City’s total spending this window now stands at £180 million, marking the second-highest expenditure by any club in a winter window, trailing only Chelsea’s £274 million outlay in 2023, according to Transfermarkt.

    Gonzalez, who began his senior career with Barcelona in 2009, made the switch to Porto in July 2023. During his time with the Portuguese side, he registered nine goals and nine assists in 68 appearances, playing a key role in their Portuguese Cup triumph last season.

    “This is the perfect opportunity for me at this stage of my career,” Gonzalez said.
    “I am 23 and I want to test myself in England. There’s no better club than Manchester City for me to do that.
    “Look at the squad they have here… it’s unbelievable, full of world-class players. There isn’t a footballer in the world who would not want to be part of this set-up.”

    Manchester City currently occupy fifth place in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by 15 points after a heavy 5-1 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday.

    The team has been struggling in midfield following the absence of Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, who has been sidelined with a serious knee injury since September.

    Meanwhile, new signing Nico Gonzalez recently made an impact for Porto, scoring the decisive goal in their 1-0 victory over Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Europa League, securing their spot in the knockout phase play-offs.

    “I know the reputation Pep [Guardiola] has and I cannot wait to work with him. In fact, I am honoured he wants me to play in his team,” Gonzalez added.
    City have already signed Egypt forward Omar Marmoush, Brazilian defender Vitor Reis, Uzbekistan defender Abdukodir Khusanov and Sierra Leonean defender Juma Bah, who has since been loaned out to Lens.

  • It was uncomfortable – Kyle Walker speaks on conversation with Pep before loan transfer

    It was uncomfortable – Kyle Walker speaks on conversation with Pep before loan transfer

    Kyle Walker has shared details of his conversation with Pep Guardiola before leaving Manchester City, admitting that it was a difficult talk.

    Walker, who moved to AC Milan on loan during the January transfer window, explained that Guardiola had previously mentioned Walker’s request to leave the club in order to finish his career abroad. The full-back has now opened up about the challenging conversation that took place between him and the manager.

    He told a press conference: “When I spoke with Pep, it wasn’t a very comfortable conversation – mainly because of the respect we have for each other. What he’s won at Manchester City, I’ve won it too. I like to think he knows what I bring to a dressing room, the atmosphere I create.

    City was my family – from the cooks to the cleaners, the kit men and physios. I like to think I was liked and helped everyone blend in.

    But things weren’t going well there and I wasn’t playing enough football. Hopefully I can play a bit more here.”

    Walker is now hoping to add more titles to his collection at San Siro and says he would love to lift the European Cup with the Rossoneri. He added: “Obviously I spoke with Zlatan (Ibrahimovic), he explained lots of different things to me, he told me about the great things we’re trying to achieve here.

    We talked about the Super Cup, which was a good start. It’s not perfect in terms of the league, but there’s still a chance in the Champions League. I hope to contribute with my experience and leadership and to help Milan return to where it wants to be. Winning the Champions League would be a dream come true: I have experienced it in a great final with City.”

    Walker has taken the No. 32 shirt at Milan, in honour of David Beckham, and has already been spotted watching his new side alongside Zlatan Ibrahimovic. He is expected to debut next month after all the paperwork relating to his transfer has been completed.

  • Man City no longer scares teams like we used to – Pep on team’s current form

    Man City no longer scares teams like we used to – Pep on team’s current form

    Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola believes that teams are now more confident in facing his side compared to before, which could put their Champions League hopes at risk if he doesn’t find a solution.

    Guardiola, whose team will play Chelsea at home on Saturday, did not directly say that City had completely lost their ‘fear factor.’

    However, as he reflected on their difficult season, he pointed out that opponents are no longer as intimidated as they used to be and are now pressing City more aggressively.

    Manchester City are currently in fifth place in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by 12 points. Towards the end of 2024, they struggled, winning just one of their last 13 matches.

    After their recent loss to Paris St-Germain, City now need to defeat Club Brugge on Wednesday to secure a spot in the Champions League play-offs.

    “Everyone came to the Etihad and stayed back,” he said. “The first team I saw man-marking was Neil Warnock at Cardiff. Now everyone does it. Everyone comes here, it doesn’t matter, man to man.

    “They just jump to Ederson or Stefan [Ortega]. You have to adapt, do it better with the ball, otherwise you are not qualifying for the Champions League.”

    Pep Guardiola Photo Courtesy: Man City

    Even though City have £123 million worth of new players ready for their Premier League match against Chelsea, Guardiola doesn’t think that will fix all their problems.

    He brushed aside claims that running statistics show how well a team is performing. Instead, he believes the real issue is that his team hasn’t been using the ball effectively.

    “Speed is important but against PSG we ran more than them,” he said. “Our problem is with the ball. This season it is what we have missed.

    Desire Doue in action against Man City Photo Courtesy: AP

    “If you have the ball and don’t pass properly to your mate, everything is so difficult.”

    When City won 2-0 at Stamford Bridge on the opening weekend of the season, few would have predicted by the time the return meeting came around that Chelsea would be higher in the table and Guardiola’s team would be just a point in front of Bournemouth.

  • Kyle Walker set to move to AC Milan on a loan deal from Man City – Sources

    Kyle Walker set to move to AC Milan on a loan deal from Man City – Sources

    Kyle Walker is set to leave Manchester City and join AC Milan after both clubs reached an agreement, according to ESPN sources.

    The 34-year-old England defender will move to Milan on loan until the end of the season. The deal includes an option for Milan to sign him permanently in the summer, but they are not required to do so. Walker is currently under contract with City until 2026.

    He is expected to arrive in Milan on Thursday to finalize the transfer.

    Walker’s move means Milan will no longer pursue Marcus Rashford. The Italian club was interested in signing him, but Serie A rules on non-EU players have made the deal impossible.

    Walker has not played for City since their 4-1 victory over West Ham on January 4.

    Walker has not played for City since informing the club’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain, that he wanted to leave during the January transfer window. As a result, manager Pep Guardiola left him out of the squad.

    His departure leaves Guardiola with limited options at right-back. Rico Lewis is available for the position, and midfielder Matheus Nunes has also filled in when needed.

    This month, City signed two young defenders—20-year-old Abdukodir Khusanov from Lens and 19-year-old Vitor Reis from Palmeiras—to strengthen their squad.

    Walker, who served as City’s captain, leaves the club after winning six Premier League titles and the Champions League, having joined from Tottenham in 2017.

  • Omar Marmoush joins Man City from Frankfurt in a £59m deal

    Omar Marmoush joins Man City from Frankfurt in a £59m deal

    Manchester City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain, praised Omar Marmoush for his impressive speed and sharp awareness.

    He also highlighted Marmoush’s ability to play in different positions as a great advantage for the team.

    Marmoush started his football career with Wadi Degla in Egypt’s Premier League before moving to German club VfL Wolfsburg in 2020.

    During his time in Germany, he was loaned to FC St Pauli and VfB Stuttgart before joining Eintracht Frankfurt in 2023. At Frankfurt, he played 67 matches, scoring 37 goals and providing 20 assists.

    “Manchester City is one of the biggest clubs in the world over the past 10 years, so it was not a question,” Marmoush said.

    “It’s a pleasure and an honour for me and my family to be representing Manchester City. It makes them happy; it makes me happy that my dreams are becoming a reality.

    “The last two seasons have been great, but it is just the beginning for me.”

    City have also signed 19-year-old Brazilian defender Vitor Reis from Palmeiras for £30m and Uzbekistan defender Abdukodir Khusanov from Lens for £34m in the January transfer window.

    Marmoush, who has played as a striker, a number 10 and a winger, said: “On the pitch I am fast, good on the ball, I try to see where the spaces are and exploit the spaces – and I’m dangerous.

    “My main strength I would say is that I always want to win – that is from a character point of view.”

    Manchester City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain, praised Omar Marmoush for his impressive speed and sharp awareness.

    He also highlighted Marmoush’s ability to play in different positions as a great advantage for the team.

    Marmoush started his football career with Wadi Degla in Egypt’s Premier League before moving to German club VfL Wolfsburg in 2020.

    During his time in Germany, he was loaned to FC St Pauli and VfB Stuttgart before joining Eintracht Frankfurt in 2023. At Frankfurt, he played 67 matches, scoring 37 goals and providing 20 assists.

  • Man City welcome Lens defender Abdukodir Khusanov

    Man City welcome Lens defender Abdukodir Khusanov

    Manchester City have signed defender Abdukodir Khusanov from Lens.

    The 20-year-old has joined City on a four-and-a-half-year contract after the club agreed to pay €40 million ($41.6 million), plus additional bonuses.

    Khusanov will wear the No. 45 jersey and is set to become the first player from Uzbekistan to compete in the Premier League.

    “I’m absolutely delighted to be joining Manchester City, a club that I have enjoyed watching for a long time,” Khusanov said.

    “This squad is full of the best players in the world, and I can’t wait to meet them and play alongside them.

    “And of course Pep Guardiola is one of the greatest coaches ever and I am so excited to learn from him and improve my game even more.

    “This is a very proud moment for me and my family to be joining a great Club like Manchester City and I’m more than ready for this challenge.”

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    “We are very happy that he has joined us and we are all very excited about what he will bring,” City director of football Txiki Begiristain said.

    “For such a young defender, Abdukodir is already very intelligent, as well as being strong, aggressive and extremely quick. “Working with Pep will only make him better and, speaking to him, he is determined to keep improving.”

  • ‘We are back’ – Excited Pep after 6-0 win over Ipswich Town

    ‘We are back’ – Excited Pep after 6-0 win over Ipswich Town

    Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola believes his team has regained their top form after a dominant 6-0 victory over Ipswich Town on Sunday, which lifted them into the Premier League’s top four.

    After struggling for the past two months, City bounced back in style, with Phil Foden scoring twice and providing an assist, while Erling Haaland also found the net. The crucial win took their points tally to 38, placing them in fourth position.

    “We are really pleased, we are back to doing things that define this team for the last 10 years.

    Really pleased for the three points and to climb into qualification for the Champions League for next season,” Guardiola told Sky Sports after the match.

    After struggling with inconsistent performances before and after Christmas, Manchester City finally got back on track with their win against Ipswich.

    Guardiola was pleased with how his team performed.

    “Much better, maybe not our best, but closer with the consistency we have in our game … Everyone with the ball was clever, quicker, faster, everyone is related. You cannot be quick, wise and good if you are not connected defensively,” Guardiola said.

    For Ipswich, who remain in 18th place in the table on 16 points, the drubbing was a valuable footballing lesson.

  • Haaland signs a nine and half year extension with Man City; becomes first EPL player to earn £500 a week

    Haaland signs a nine and half year extension with Man City; becomes first EPL player to earn £500 a week

    Erling Haaland has committed to Manchester City with a record-breaking nine-and-a-half-year contract, securing his stay at the club until the summer of 2034.

    With this extension, the Norwegian striker will become the Premier League’s highest-paid player, earning over £500,000 per week—the first-ever player to reach such a figure.

    This new deal replaces his previous contract, which was due to expire in 2027, ensuring Haaland remains at the Etihad Stadium until he turns 34.

    According to Graeme Bailey, Haaland’s earnings will significantly increase through bonuses and image rights, further boosting his income.

    This announcement ends speculation about Real Madrid’s interest in the 24-year-old forward.

    Haaland shared his excitement about the new deal, expressing his commitment to a long-term future with Manchester City.

    “I am really happy to have signed my new contract and to be able to look forward to spending even more time at this great club.

    “Manchester City is a special club, full of fantastic people with amazing supporters, and it’s the type of environment that helps bring the best out of everybody,” he said.

    Since joining City in June 2022 from Borussia Dortmund, Haaland has scored 111 goals in 126 games and has lifted two Premier League titles, the Champions League, an FA Cup, and a Super Cup.

  • Pep Guardiola to reportedly leave £8.5m mansion to his wife after separation

    Pep Guardiola to reportedly leave £8.5m mansion to his wife after separation

    Pep Guardiola is planning to leave his £8.5 million mansion in Barcelona after separating from his wife, Cristina Serra.

    According to Spanish media reports on Monday, January 13, 2025, Guardiola and Serra have decided to end their relationship after being together for 30 years.

    Guardiola, who has three adult children with Serra, a fashion executive, usually stayed at their luxurious family home in one of Barcelona’s most exclusive areas whenever he visited from Manchester.

    It is unclear where Pep Guardiola will stay in Barcelona going forward. When he’s not in the city, he lives at the Deansgate City Suites in central Manchester.

    Cristina Serra is expected to remain in the family’s Barcelona mansion, which was once owned by former Mexican footballer Rafa Márquez.

    Guardiola bought the luxury property, located in one of Barcelona’s best neighborhoods, from a Russian businessman in February 2021..

  • 30 years of marriage over! – Pep Guardiola reportedly breaks up with his wife

    30 years of marriage over! – Pep Guardiola reportedly breaks up with his wife

    Head coach of Manchester City, Pep Guardiola, and his wife Cristina Serra have ended their 30-year marriage, according to El Periodico, as reported by goal.com.

    While the separation has not been publicly announced, the couple has reportedly informed close friends and family, asking them to keep the news private.

    Guardiola and Serra first met in 1994 when he was 20 and she was 17. They got married in 2014 and have three children: Maria, 24; Marius, 22; and Valentina, 17.

    In 2019, there were reports that Serra had moved away from Manchester with one of their children to focus on her fashion business, which raised some concerns. Afterward, she split her time between Spain and London, while staying in touch with Guardiola, who remained in Manchester.

    The exact reasons behind the separation have not been revealed.

    Guardiola, who has faced a challenging start to the 2024/2025 season, is expected to focus on his work and try to improve Manchester City’s performance.

  • He has to fight for his spot – Man City’s Pep on Jack Grealish missing starting line-up

    He has to fight for his spot – Man City’s Pep on Jack Grealish missing starting line-up

    Manager of Manchester City, Pep Guardiola has challenged Jack Grealish to work hard and earn his spot in the team’s starting lineup. He urged the midfielder to regain the impressive form he showed during the club’s historic treble-winning season.

    In the 2022-23 season, Grealish played 50 matches, scoring five goals and providing 11 assists, contributing to City’s triumph in the Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup.

    This season, however, the 29-year-old England international has struggled to make an impact. His recent performance saw him left on the bench during City’s 4-1 victory over West Ham United, with Brazilian player Savinho taking his place in the starting lineup.

    “Savinho is in better shape and everything than Jack, and that’s why I played Savinho,” Guardiola told reporters.

    “Do I want the Jack that won the treble? Yeah, I want it, but I try to be honest with myself for that. They have to fight. You can say it’s unfair.

    “If you think that, then it’s fine, but you have to prove [to me], ‘Okay, I’m going to fight with Savinho, to deserve to play in that position’, every single day, every single week and every single month.”

    Grealish, who also spent a spell on the sidelines this season due to injury, has made just six starts for City in the league.

    “Two weeks ago, he was injured and he needs rhythm, and to play, but players need training,” Guardiola said.


    “I don’t have any doubt about the quality of Jack or any of these players. They would not be here [otherwise].

    “I know that he can do it because I saw him. I saw his level and I want that, every single training session and every single game.”

    City next host fourth-tier side Salford City in the FA Cup on Jan. 11.

  • Man City reports a record-breaking Premier League revenue of £715 m

    Man City reports a record-breaking Premier League revenue of £715 m

    Manchester City have reported a Premier League record revenue of £715 million in their financial results for the year ending 30 June 2024.

    Despite falling short of replicating their historic 2023 Treble, City’s achievements, including a fourth consecutive English league title, and wins in the Club World Cup and European Super Cup, drove a revenue increase of £2.2 million from their previous record of £712.8 million.

    The club’s wage bill decreased by £10.3 million to £412.6 million, contributing to a pre-tax profit of £73.8 million. Commercial revenue also saw a slight rise, growing from £341.4 million to £344.7 million.

    City have maintained profitability in every season since 2014-15, except for the Covid-affected 2019-20 season. Additionally, they announced a £92.8 million profit from transfers since June, including the sales of Julian Alvarez, Joao Cancelo, and Liam Delap.

    This strong financial position provides City with the flexibility to strengthen Pep Guardiola’s squad in the upcoming transfer window, following a challenging period of just one win in their last 10 games.

    “Our constant ambition to target and achieve the unprecedented is a mark of the organisation that we have be come,” noted City chairman Khaldoon al-Mubarak in his assessment, which was written before the club’s worst run under Guardiola.

    “On and off the field, our passion for the next challenge is underpinned by deliberate and detailed planning and a shared belief in the collaborative learning culture that we have built.

    “This organisational approach is now part of our DNA. It is a product of the unwavering focus on constant improvement, in every aspect of the organisation, that has been in place since His Highness Sheikh Mansour became the club’s custodian in 2008.”

    That belief is being tested like never before.

    The Champions League defeat by Juventus on Wednesday has left City at very real risk of missing out on a play-off place. Winning the tournament in 2023 earned City £111.8m from that competition alone.

    They go into Sunday’s Manchester derby with United at Etihad Stadium fourth in the Premier League, eight points behind leaders Liverpool, who also have a game in hand.

    “Winning the Treble in the previous season did not generate any sense of complacency in our teams on or off the pitch,” said chief executive Ferran Soriano.

    “We understand very well that the relentless pursuit of beautiful football, operational excellence, and constant innovation requires hard work and resilience.”

    The accounts make no reference to City’s recent battle with the Premier League over the Associated Party Transaction (APT) rules, and only a fleeting reference to City’s ongoing case with the Premier League over 115 alleged breaches of financial rules.


  • Pep Guardiola has no plans of managing any other club after Man City

    Pep Guardiola has no plans of managing any other club after Man City

    Manager of Manchester City, Pep Guardiola, has shared his plans for the future and discussed where he might go after leaving the club.

    Guardiola recently signed a new contract with Manchester City, keeping him at the club until 2027. This deal will extend his time at the club to over a decade, during which he has already won six Premier League titles, one Champions League, four Carabao Cups, two FA Cups, and the FIFA Club World Cup.

    Looking ahead, Guardiola has confirmed that Manchester City will be the final club he manages in his career.

    He told famous Spanish chef Dani Garcia on his Desmontadito YouTube channel: “I’m not going to manage any other club after City.

    I’m not talking about the long-term future, but what I’m not going to do is leave, go to another country, and do the same thing as now. Maybe a national team, but that’s different.”

    Guardiola was linked with the England job in the wake of Gareth Southgate’s departure before Thomas Tuchel was appointed as the new Three Lions’ coach.

    There has also been speculation previously that the 53-year-old was wanted by the Brazil national team, and there may be plenty of offers for Guardiola to consider once he does finally decide to part ways with City.

    Guardiola’s City side are currently going through a sticky patch and dropped Premier League points again last time out against Crystal Palace.

    The Catalan coach will aim to get his team back to winning ways on Wednesday at Juventus in the Champions League.

  • Video: Pep Guardiola lost his temper, almost fought a fan after on the street after 0-2 defeat against Liverpool

    Video: Pep Guardiola lost his temper, almost fought a fan after on the street after 0-2 defeat against Liverpool

    Manchester City’s head coach, Pep Guardiola, was nearly involved in a physical confrontation with a fan after a recent loss.

    A video circulating online shows the fan mocking Guardiola over the defeat, prompting an unusually heated response from the usually composed Spanish manager.

    The fan was heard saying, “Cry, mate, just because you lost,” as Guardiola walked past.

    Pep Guardiola, the former Barcelona manager, turned to confront the fan after hearing the comment, but his security team intervened to stop him.

    It is still unclear if the incident happened after Manchester City’s 2-0 loss to Liverpool on Sunday, December 1, 2024.

    City had been struggling, losing six of their last seven matches without a win. However, they broke the streak with a commanding 4-0 victory over Nottingham Forest on Wednesday, December 4, 2024.

  • ‘I want to harm myself’, Guardiola says and jets off

    ‘I want to harm myself’, Guardiola says and jets off

    Pep Guardiola has addressed the visible cuts and scratches on his head, spotted during and after Manchester City’s dramatic Champions League clash with Feyenoord at the Etihad Stadium.

    The City manager appeared with a cut on his nose and other marks on his head, prompting questions after a chaotic 3-3 draw that saw his team squander a 3-0 lead in the second half.

    “Yes, it’s my finger here. With my nail,” Guardiola said when asked about the injuries, before adding, “I wanted to harm myself,” followed by a laugh.

    https://twitter.com/JJxUTD/status/1861543900571107726

    Tuesday’s draw extended a dismal run of form for Manchester City, who had lost five consecutive matches in all competitions for the first time since 2006 before the game against Feyenoord. It marks the worst streak in Guardiola’s managerial career, with the Catalan coach never previously enduring more than three straight losses during his time at City, Bayern Munich, or Barcelona.

    The pressure is only set to intensify for City, who now prepare for a daunting trip to face Premier League leaders Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

    Reflecting on the game, Guardiola admitted his team is “fragile,” as Erling Haaland’s brace and Ilkay Gundogan’s goal were undone by Feyenoord’s spirited comeback. The Dutch side capitalized on defensive errors from Josko Gvardiol, with goals from Anis Hadj Moussa, Santiago Gimenez, and David Hancko delighting their 5,000 traveling supporters.

    The final whistle was met with boos from some stunned City fans, but Guardiola insisted he understood the reaction.

    “Last game against Tottenham, 0-4, they were there, the supporters, with applause,” he said. “They are disappointed, of course, we understand it. They have done it properly.

    “People come here not to remember the success of the past. They come here today to see the team win and perform well, and we have to do so.

    “They support us all the time. When we go away, our fans are amazing. Of course, they are completely right to express what they feel, absolutely.”

    Guardiola also defended Gvardiol, despite the young defender’s costly mistakes.

    “He is so young, he will learn. It will be a good experience,” Guardiola said. “The way he has played – he was the best player on the pitch, but I will be so wrong if I point specific things for our defeat.

    “He is young and he will learn. He is a fantastic player, fantastic boy, and now more than ever must be helped.”

  • I have it all here ;whatever a manager could wish for – Man City’s Pep after signing 2 year contract extension

    I have it all here ;whatever a manager could wish for – Man City’s Pep after signing 2 year contract extension

    Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has extended his stay at the club by signing a new two-year deal, keeping him in charge until 2027.

    The 53-year-old Spaniard, who took the helm in 2016, has led City to an impressive 18 trophies, including six Premier League triumphs.

    Guardiola’s previous contract was set to end after the ongoing season, but this renewal solidifies his future at the club. Reflecting on the extension, he expressed gratitude, stating he has “everything a manager could dream of” at City.

    “Manchester City means so much to me,” Guardiola told the club’s website.

    “This is my ninth season here. We have experienced so many amazing times together. I have a really special feeling for this football club.

    “I have said this many times before, but I have everything a manager could ever wish for, and I appreciate that so much.

    “Hopefully now we can add more trophies to the ones we have already won. That will be my focus.”

    It was reported that Guardiola had agreed a new contract on Wednesday and the club confirmed the news a day later.

    ‘Hunger for success remains insatiable’


    During his time in Manchester, Guardiola has helped City become just the second English men’s team to win the Treble – the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League in the same season.

    They have also become the first men’s team to win four successive English top-flight titles and to achieve 100 Premier League points in a single campaign.

    “Like every City fan, I am delighted that Pep’s journey with Manchester City will continue, allowing his dedication, passion and innovative thinking to continue to shape the landscape of the game,” City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak added.

    “His hunger for improvement and success remains insatiable and the direct beneficiaries of that will continue to be our players and coaching staff, the culture of our club, and the English game at large.”

    Manchester City currently sit second in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by five points, while grappling with an unprecedented run of four consecutive defeats in all competitions.

    For Guardiola, this marks the first time in his managerial career—excluding penalty shootouts—that he has faced such a series of losses.

    The announcement of Guardiola’s contract extension comes amid ongoing scrutiny over a Premier League investigation into 115 alleged breaches of financial regulations by the club. While City have denied the allegations, the case’s outcome could result in significant repercussions if wrongdoing is confirmed.

    Despite the controversy, Guardiola has remained steadfast in his support for City, urging critics to hold off judgment until the investigation is concluded.

    With Jurgen Klopp’s departure from Liverpool last summer, Guardiola now stands as the Premier League’s longest-tenured manager.

  • Man City’s Haaland sets social media ablaze with ‘baby’ post

    Man City’s Haaland sets social media ablaze with ‘baby’ post

    Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has sparked baby rumours by hinting on social media that he may soon become a dad.

    He scored two goals in Norway’s 3-0 Nations League victory over Slovenia on Thursday, achieving the remarkable milestone of becoming his country’s all-time record scorer.

    After the match, the 24-year-old took to Instagram, sharing a playful photo of himself sucking his thumb with a ball under his jersey, accompanied by the caption, “👶🏼🔜.”

    Haaland has been on a record-breaking scoring spree, having netted 34 goals in just 36 appearances for Norway and 256 goals in 308 club matches. Now, it seems a baby could be on the way for the prolific forward.

    Haaland will have a chance to increase his record tally for Norway in their upcoming Nations League match against Austria on Sunday night. Following that game, the former Borussia Dortmund star is set to return to Manchester City for their Premier League match against Wolves on October 20.

  • Man City’s director Begiristain to depart at the end of the season

    Man City’s director Begiristain to depart at the end of the season

    Manchester City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain, is expected to depart the club at the conclusion of the current season, according to sources from ESPN.

    Since joining the Etihad Stadium in 2012, Begiristain has been integral to the club’s achievements.

    He and fellow former Barcelona executive Ferran Soriano were instrumental in bringing Pep Guardiola on board as the team’s manager in 2016.

    Guardiola, who previously managed Barcelona from 2008 to 2012, is under contract until the season’s end and has yet to disclose his future plans.

    Reports indicate that Begiristain will be involved in selecting his successor for the director of football position.

    The new hire could start as soon as January 2025 and work alongside Begiristain during the latter part of the season to prepare for the upcoming transfer window.

    https://www.youtube.com/shorts/QTc5IU4ugRU

    As the head of recruitment, Begiristain has guided Manchester City through a remarkable period, securing seven Premier League titles and the Champions League trophy in 2023.

    In addition to hiring Guardiola, he played a crucial role in signing star striker Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund in 2022.

    Begiristain and Guardiola share a close friendship, having collaborated extensively at City. Guardiola extended his contract in 2022, which keeps him at the club until the end of the current season.

    While City hopes to retain him, Guardiola has not yet made a definitive choice about his future.

    With over 15 years of managerial experience that includes tenures at Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City, Guardiola has expressed interest in leading a national team in an international tournament. He has previously been linked to coaching roles with Brazil and England.

  • UCL: Man City crushes Slovan Bratislava in 3-0

    UCL: Man City crushes Slovan Bratislava in 3-0

    Phil Foden played a pivotal role in Manchester City’s decisive Champions League victory over Slovan Bratislava, contributing both a goal and an assist.

    After a slow start to the season, Foden capitalised on his second start of the campaign to shine on the European stage.

    The match began with Ilkay Gundogan scoring the opener in the eighth minute, netting his first goal since returning to the team with a deflected effort.

    Just seven minutes later, Foden found the back of the net himself, skilfully placing a shot into the bottom corner.

    City’s dominance continued as they struck the woodwork three times, with efforts from Foden, Gundogan, and Jeremy Doku, but it was Erling Haaland who extended their lead, netting his 11th goal of the season shortly before the hour mark by rounding the goalkeeper, Dominik Takac.

    In the 74th minute, Foden set up substitute James McAtee, who scored his first goal for City.

    Despite several opportunities, including a stellar performance from goalkeeper Takac that kept the scoreline from escalating, the win marked City’s first in the new Champions League format following a draw against Inter Milan in their previous match.

  • Rodri injured, to be away for a long time – Pep confirms

    Rodri injured, to be away for a long time – Pep confirms

    Pep Guardiola has confirmed that Rodri is facing an extended spell on the sidelines due to a knee injury sustained during Manchester City’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal.

    The midfielder has gone to Barcelona for further medical evaluations after being substituted in the first half of the match.

    Although surgery is expected, Guardiola mentioned that no definitive decision has been made regarding the specific procedure.

    According to ESPN sources, Rodri’s recovery time could range from five to eight months, depending on the final assessment by the medical team.

    Despite the severity of the situation, Guardiola remains hopeful that Rodri’s recovery may be quicker than initially feared.

    “Still we don’t have the definitive [answer],” Guardiola said at a news conference on Tuesday.

    “He will be out for a long time. But there are some opinions that it will be less than we expect. Right now I cannot tell you. We are waiting for the last phone calls and the type of surgery he needs. Tonight or tomorrow we know.”

    Rodri’s extended time away from the pitch poses a significant challenge for Manchester City as they pursue their fifth consecutive Premier League title.

    Since joining from Atletico Madrid in 2019, he has become an integral part of Pep Guardiola’s team and played a crucial role in Spain’s triumph at the European Championship this past summer.

    At 28 years old, Rodri is also considered a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or, competing with Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior for the prestigious award.

    “We will have a good season,” Guardiola added.

    “I trust a lot in my players. I have a duty to find a solution. He’s irreplaceable, when you don’t play with the best player in the world. My duty is to find a solution, be competitive like many years, and continue to be there.”

    Guardiola was speaking after City booked their place in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup with a 2-1 win over Championship side Watford.