Manchester City has strongly condemned the “offensive” chants that were directed at the late Sir Bobby Charlton during their match against Brighton and Hove Albion.
The football legend, who represented England and Manchester United, passed away at the age of 86 on Saturday, prompting clubs throughout the English Football League to pay their respects in the latest round of fixtures.
Regrettably, a section of Manchester City fans engaged in derogatory chants aimed at the 1966 World Cup winner during City’s 2-1 victory over Brighton at the Etihad Stadium.
In response, as reported by BBC Sport, Manchester City has issued an official statement expressing their disappointment and their commitment to identifying and banning the individuals responsible for these offensive chants.
“The club condemns these chants in the strongest terms and apologises unreservedly to the family and friends of Sir Bobby, and to all those at Manchester United,” the statement reads.
“On this day of all days, when the stadium stood to pay tribute to our own legend in Francis Lee, Manchester City supporters should understand and appreciate as keenly as anyone the need for respect in our game.
“Our security team are studying CCTV footage of the concourse areas. We are thankful to those who have already come forward to report this matter.
“We continue to appeal for any information that can help us identify the individuals involved so that we can take the appropriate action to issue banning orders.”
In the upcoming Manchester derby of the 2023-24 Premier League season, which will be hosted by Charlton’s former club, Manchester United, City’s manager, Pep Guardiola, has confirmed that his team will participate in a special pre-match tribute.
This tribute will honor Sir Bobby Charlton, a footballing legend who scored an impressive 249 goals in 758 appearances for the Red Devils.
Pep Guardiola holds the belief that Roberto de Zerbi, the coach of Brighton, could potentially become the next manager of Manchester City.
In a recent Premier League encounter at the Amex Stadium, De Zerbi’s footballing acumen enabled the Seagulls to secure a 1-1 draw against the relentless City.
According to The Telegraph, Guardiola was so impressed with his tactics in the match that he went on to say that the Italian should be “the next Manchester City manager”.
The coach, who has achieved the treble twice, holds great admiration for Brighton’s style of play, particularly their skill in building from the back.
Guardiola also commends De Zerbi’s strategic use of the “free man” concept, which grants his players more time with the ball and the ability to dismantle their opponents.
Guardiola openly acknowledges his efforts to learn from De Zerbi’s tactics.
Presently, Guardiola’s contract with City is in effect until the conclusion of the next season.
However, if the 52-year-old chooses not to extend his stay at Etihad, the question arises whether De Zerbi will assume the role, unless he is snatched up by another prominent European club, given his escalating reputation.
In the immediate future, these two brilliant football strategists will compete against each other as City hosts Brighton on Saturday.
The Northern Echo reports that Eddie Howe’s team is prepared to pursue Phillips in the upcoming January transfer window. Bayern has also expressed interest in the player if he opts to leave City.
Speaking about his future at the Etihad Stadium after featuring in England’s Euro 2024 qualifier against Italy last night, Phillips stated, “I am aware that I must play matches and compete every weekend.”
“I’m going to have to make a decision on [my future] over the next few months. “Gareth just says that for me to keep my spot, I have to be playing games. That’s what I want to do. I have agreed with Gareth on that. “I want to play football and want to play as much as possible. Over the last year and a half, I haven’t been able to do that due to injuries and other factors.
“It’s something I am going to have to think about. Hopefully my chance does come but if it doesn’t, then I will have to make other decisions as well.”
Kalvin Phillips, who plays for Manchester City, will now rejoin Pep Guardiola’s squad with hopes of earning a place in the starting lineup for their upcoming match against Brighton andHove Albion on Saturday.
The interest in Álvarez is reportedly driven by Barcelona’s manager, Xavi Hernandez, who sees the 23-year-old as a highly promising player.
Álvarez has stepped into a more significant role at Manchester City this season, impressively tallying six goals and five assists.
He has demonstrated his versatility as a creative midfielder, notably in the absence of the injured Kevin De Bruyne.
According to the report, Álvarez may come with a €50 million release clause, a figure that could entice Barcelona, given their financial constraints.
The club has been constrained from pursuing top forwards across Europe due to the need to adhere to La Liga’s financial fair play regulations by cutting down on transfer spending.
The report further indicates that Barcelona is actively seeking a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski, who, at 35, hasn’t replicated the success he enjoyed in Germany with Bayern Munich during his time in Spain.
Lewandowski has managed six goals and four assists across all competitions this season, and his recent injuries have raised doubts within the club regarding the wisdom of extending his contract.
While Barcelonahas secured 18-year-old forward Vitor Roque from Athletico Paranaense for €40 million, effective July 2024, it is apparent that the club is also on the lookout for a forward who can make an immediate impact.
Midfielder Kalvin Phillips is contemplating the possibility of leavingManchester City in January, according to a source close to ESPN.
Phillips made the decision to stay and compete for his place in the team during the summer, even though he faced challenges breaking into Pep Guardiola’s squad during his first season at the Etihad.
However, the 27-year-old is beginning to lose confidence in his chances of becoming a regular player at City, especially after being overlooked for Premier League matches against Wolves and Arsenal while Rodri was serving a suspension.
Phillips was brought in for a £43 million transfer from Leeds United in 2022 with the intention of providing competition for Rodri.
However, with Rodri serving a ban for the matches at Molineux and the Emirates, Phillips found himself on the bench.
In the current season, he has only started one match, which ended in a 1-0 defeat to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup.
Throughout his City career, he has started only two Premier League games, both of which occurred at the conclusion of the previous season after Guardiola’s team had already secured the championship.
A source informed ESPN that Phillips is concerned that his opportunities will be limited between now and the January transfer window, particularly with Rodri’s availability and City’s exit from the Carabao Cup.
Manchester City is actively pursuing the extension of Erling Haaland’s contract with the intention of eliminating the release clause and minimising the chances of Real Madrid or Barcelona luring him away, as reported by Gazzetta dello Sport.
According to sources from ESPN, City has been exploring the possibility of extending Haaland’s contract and aims to finalise an agreement within the next few months.
Currently, the 23-year-old’s contract is set to run until 2027, but it contains a €200 million release clause that diminishes annually over the contract’s duration.
In light of this, Manchester City is prepared to offer Haaland an increase in his salary, extend the contract by an additional year, and remove the release clause altogether.
Real Madrid and Barcelona are closely monitoring developments regarding Haaland’s contract, as both clubs are aware of the release clause.
Real Madrid, in particular, has been in search of a high-profile striker since the departure of Karim Benzema to Al Ittihad.
If Real Madrid fails to secure the services ofKylian Mbappé from Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer next summer, the club’s president, Florentino Perez, is expected to channel his efforts towards signing Erling Haaland.
A single strike from Gabriel Martinelli, which took an unfortunate deflection off Nathan Ake, proved sufficient to settle this high-stakes Premier League clash at Emirates Stadium.
Given Arsenal’s previous season disappointment in missing out on the title to City, their jubilation was understandably intense. However, their post-match celebrations seemed to push the boundaries.
As the City players made their way towards the tunnel, seasoned defender Kyle Walker turned back to address Arsenal’s set-piece coach, Nicolas Jover, who had previously worked at the Etihad Stadium from 2019 to 2021.
This confrontation escalated into a heated exchange of words, with the prolific striker Erling Haaland also becoming involved.
It took the intervention of staff members from both teams, along with Bukayo Saka attempting to play the role of peacemaker, to defuse the situation.
Pep Guardiola was not involved in the post-game spat but claims to know what went on and why. He told reporters afterwards: “I know what happened but I won’t say anything. They [Arsenal] know it.”Gary Neville, who was on punditry duty for Sky Sports, said of the incident: “Football players don’t like set-pieces on the training pitch, let alone the opposition set-piece coach having a go.”
Ex-Arsenal winger Theo Walcott added on the potential reasons for Walker and City losing their cool: “We always look at Man City as being very professional and not reacting in situations and that’s where I feel like a nerve has been hit here. He’s definitely caught it there.”
Guardiola’s team has now experienced consecutive Premier League losses for the first time since December 2018.
Meanwhile, Arsenal, who remain undefeated, find themselves tied on points with Tottenham at the summit of the league table.
The Norwegian striker, Erling Haaland, made his move to the Premier League club from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2022 for a fee of £51 million ($63 million).
Since his arrival, he has shattered numerous records and managed to net an impressive tally of 52 goals during the previous season across all competitions.
This outstanding performance played a pivotal role in guiding The Cityzens to a historic treble.
Amidst his phenomenal success, Pep Guardiola, his manager, plays a crucial role. Guardiola has high expectations, urging the player to give his best in every training session.
In a lighthearted manner, he even jokes that he will “smash” the player if he detects any lack of focus.
“There is so much! He demands a lot in training,” Haaland told The Telegraph.
“When I spoke with him before I signed here, he said, ‘I don’t care what you do;do whatever you want. But when you have me on the (training) pitch, you have to be focused. If not, I will smash you!’”
Haaland believes that City’s secret to overwhelming success since Guardiola took over is the team’s two-pronged approach to life while they are on and off the pitch.
“That’s really how he is and how City are as a team and as a club. It’s why they have been so successful,” Haaland stated.
“The pressure is there. Look at the pressure we have every single day as a club, as a team, and as individuals. But you must focus on the one hour we have in training every day and the rest of the day relax; don’t think of football; don’t think of anything.
“I think that’s a big part of why it’s so successful here with all the staff. After training, don’t think of football anymore. You think and you develop on the pitch. When you are on the pitch, you focus. That is what Pep demands,” he added.
Following a shocking loss to Wolves in their most recent Premier League game, City will face Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal in a titanic match on Sunday at the Emirates Stadium.
Manchester City is reportedly in discussions to negotiate a new contract with Erling Haaland, a development that may disappoint Real Madrid’s future transfer plans.
The Spanish giants have long been linked with the highly prolific Norwegian striker but failed to secure an agreement with Borussia Dortmund in previous transfer windows.
Consequently, Haaland made a move to England in the summer of 2022 as part of a £51 million ($62 million) deal.
During his debut season at the Etihad Stadium, the 23-year-old emerged as a revelation, scoring an impressive 52 goals across all competitions and playing a pivotal role in City’s achievement of a Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League Treble.
Haaland still has nearly four years remaining on his existing contract with Manchester City.
According to reports from The Daily Mail, Manchester City is keen to extend Haaland’s contract, adding at least another year to the current agreement.
Additionally, discussions are expected to address the inclusion of release clauses in the new contract.
Haaland’s initial contract featured two release clauses, one of which is related to the future of Pep Guardiola as the team’s manager.
City aims to reach an agreement swiftly, leaving Real Madrid to monitor the situation from a distance.
Real Madrid is interested in securing Haaland’s services for Santiago Bernabeu, envisioning him as part of a star-studded attacking lineup that could potentially include Kylian Mbappe.
Mbappe, the French World Cup winner, is anticipated to join Real Madrid in 2024 when his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is concerned that his team could become fatigued due to the inability to fly back home after their Wednesday match against Newcastle.
City’s usual practice after an away match is to fly home to Manchester, but they will be forced to embark on a lengthy bus journey this time because of plane-related issues, as explained by Guardiola.
The reigning European and English champions will return later than planned due to this five-and-a-half-hour bus trip, with their estimated arrival in Manchester around 2 a.m. on Thursday.
Subsequently, they will have to travel to Wolves on Friday for preparations ahead of their Premier League match on Saturday. Guardiola is anxious about the physical condition of his players given this demanding schedule.
“After the game we cannot come back by plane because of a problem – something for the planes,” he told reporters. “We don’t have a plane to travel back, so we have to take a bus. It’s two or three hours later that we will arrive here – so, so late, arriving on Thursday.
The day after, Friday, we travel to Wolves, so that’s what you have to think about.
“Then we go to Germany to play [RB] Leipzig in the Champions League next week. That’s a really important game for us, because we know what it means to be able to win there to qualify for the next stage.
“I don’t know what happened [with the aeroplane] . The team manager told me. It happened with the previous one, I think in London.
It’s not a problem with the bus, but we will arrive much, much later than we expected, but it is what it is.”
Manchester City is actively seeking to bolster their defence by pursuing the signing of Valentin Barco, a 19-year-old left-back from Boca Juniors, according to reports from Football Insider.
Valentin Barco has garnered attention through his impressive performances in Argentina and with the Argentine U20 national team.
The potential transfer fee for Barco is estimated at £15 million, as he has not yet extended his contract with Boca Juniors.
Additionally, Manchester City is on the verge of finalising a deal for Divine Mukasa, a 16-year-old England U17 midfielder from West Ham.
Divine Mukasa has shown promise in West Ham’s youth academy, and City is prepared to offer him a long-term contract, as reported by Fabrizio Romano.
Manager of Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp, attributes Pep Guardiola’s enduring success at Manchester City to his consistent winning record. He said Pep “wins everything”.
These two highly regarded tacticians in the world of football have frequently clashed while leading two prominent Premier League clubs. Both managers have celebrated domestic league titles and relished victories in the Champions League.
Klopp has held his position at Anfield since October 2015, while Guardiola assumed the managerial role at the Etihad Stadium in 2016. They are both committed to their current contracts for at least two more years, and fans can anticipate their ongoing pursuit of prestigious trophies both domestically and on the international stage.
Liverpool manager Klopp has told TNT Sports when asked if he takes inspiration from long-serving greats of the game: “I never thought I will be one of them, so I forgot to look at them. It just happened. I’ve only had three clubs so each club has had a different story, a different starting point.
“What everybody wants to see—the CEOs, the presidents of the club – is that their team is in good hands, that they see development, and that it goes in the right direction. For whatever reason—I don’t know exactly, I could deliver that somehow, and that’s why I was allowed to work longer in clubs.With Pep, it is easier to see, because he wins everything, so why would you send him on the road?”
Klopp, who worked at Mainz and Borussia Dortmund before making his way to Merseyside, added: “I never compared myself with the real greats of the business who worked for nearly 20 years or longer in big clubs. I really think it’s only possible in big clubs, or you are a man of the club.
“In Germany we have a similar story with Christian Streich [manager of SC Freiburg since 2011, and involved in coaching at the club since 1995]. Otherwise, it’s only possible in big clubs where you have success from time to time, because otherwise people want to have a change, and that’s their right.”
Jurgen Klopp’s contract with Liverpool is set to extend until the summer of 2026, marking over a decade of his tenure at Anfield. However, there are ongoing speculations linking him to the position of the German national team coach whenever that role becomes available. This talk has gained momentum following the recent dismissal of Hansi Flick, the former Bayern Munich manager, from the Die Mannschaft post.
The coach expressed his satisfaction with the response of his players during half-time in their 3-1 victory against West Ham. City had been trailing 1-0 at the break, and Guardiola was pleased to witness his players’ determination to reverse the course of the match.
“The manager can go on TikTok and repeat motivation but it doesn’t work. Every player has to be moved and feel that,” Guardiola told a press conference. “It belongs to them, I knew at half-time I should come to the players because they were angry.
“I said ‘Why are you angry, you’re losing 1-0 but performing well. Be clinical upfront and you’d be 3-1 up?’ We push them, they have an incredible mentality, to never give up.”
City begin their defence of the Champions League this week and Guardiola hopes his team do not become complacent after finally winning Europe’s top prize last season. “The important thing is that the players don’t feel relaxed. If the board are relaxed, good, they don’t score goals. For our club to win the Champions League is something incredible.
“How many teams have won oneChampions League. In perspective we didn’t do anything special, just one. For us the club didn’t have it, to be part of that is proud.”
Guardiola’s team commences their group stage journey with a seemingly uncomplicated home match against Crvena zvezda on Tuesday night.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has heaped praise on Belgium international of Ghanaian descent, Jeremy Doku, for his exceptional performance against West Ham United on Saturday.
Doku earned a spot in the starting lineup and played until stoppage time as the Premier League champions clinched a 3-1 victory over West Ham.
The former Stade Rennais star found the back of the net in his second appearance for Manchester City during the weekend’s match.
Goals from Jeremy Doku, Bernardo Silva and Erling Haaland secured a 3-1 victory over West Ham as City fought back from a half-time deficit to maintain our 100% record in the Premier League.
Pep Guardiola’s side had an incredible 29 shots but a combination of missed opportunities, brilliant goalkeeping and brave defending kept the game in the balance until the dying minutes.
The Hammers went into the game unbeaten and, despite sitting back for large parts of the game, they offered plenty of threat and went in at half-time ahead thanks to James Ward-Prowse’s diving header after a quick break.
“It was an unbelievable game. He was a proper winger, have the ball, have the ability to go 1v1. Not just that, he has the quality to read when to make the press for the next player. I was very happy; it was a very good performance” Guardiola said after the game.
The Belgian winger of Ghanaian descent has made two appearances for the club since his arrival during the recently concluded transfer window, and he has already scored one goal.
Mundo Deportivo reports that both Bernardo Silva and Dani Olmo have contract clauses that favor Barcelona.
In the case of Silva, who renewed his contract with Manchester City during the summer, there is a €50 million release clause specified in the terms.
Barcelona has made attempts to acquire the Portuguese midfielder multiple times in recent years but has struggled to meet City’s asking price of approximately €80 million.
Nevertheless, the €50 million release clause could entice Barcelona to consider a move either in January or next summer, especially since coach Xavi Hernandez is keen on Silva.
As for Olmo, he recently extended his contract with RB Leipzig until 2027, and this extension reportedly includes a €60 million release clause.
Similar to Silva, the Spanish forward has frequently been linked with a return to Barcelona, where he initially developed in the academy before departing for Dinamo Zagreb at the age of 16.
While Haaland couldn’t be present in person, his gift packages were distributed to every football club in the Time municipality in Norway, which is the same place where the striker spent his formative years.
Each child received a package containing a football, a T-shirt, shorts, a football bag, and an Aquafigure drinking bottle—a brand that Haaland not only endorses but also has invested in.
The total value of each package is 1500 NOK (£111).
The Norwegian sensation has continued his impressive form from last season, already netting six goals in just four Premier League appearances, which included a remarkable hat-trick against Fulham over the weekend.
Erling Haaland thanks fans for support in a tweet
The 23-year-old striker’s upcoming matches will see him representing his national team, Norway.
They are scheduled to play a friendly against Jordan on September 7, followed by a Euro 2024 qualifying gameagainst Georgia on September 12.
Erling Haaland has unveiled his unconventional sleep habits that contribute to his goal-scoring prowess, as the Manchester City striker tapes his mouth shut during sleep!
The Norwegian star achieved an impressive tally of 52 goals for Treble-winning City in the previous season, a feat that earned him the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award.
Already having found the net three times in the ongoing 2023-24 season, the 23-year-old striker maintains his reputation as a relentless threat to opposing defences.
Haaland’s commitment to continuous improvement drives him to stay a step ahead of his competitors.
This dedication encompasses even his bedtime routine.
In pursuit of optimal performance on the field, the determined forward leaves no aspect unaddressed, seeking every possible advantage to enhance his game.
Haaland has told Logan Paul’s YouTube show ‘Impaulsive’ of his somewhat bizarre sleeping rituals: “Movement, training, biomechanics, I’m a bit into, to use your body and make it work and function in the best possible way – I’m really into that. And I think sleep is the most important thing in the world.
“So to sleep good, simple kind of things – blue blocking glasses, shutting out all the signals in the bedroom, I think is really important. [It’s about] small things. I think doing a lot of things is not good but doing small things every single day for a longer period really pays off.”
He added when Paul revealed that he uses tape on his nose in a bid to open up his airways: “You should try and tape your mouth then! Why not! [Or] when you train? It would be a bit difficult. I have it, I sleep with it.”
Haaland also said of using a sauna on a daily basis: “I have it at home so I try and do it not every single day but almost every day.
Sauna, steam room.” His methods may not be to everyone’s taste, but they are clearly working and there is the promise of many more goals to come from the current holder of the Premier League’s Golden Boot.
Despite undergoing back surgery and currently being in rehabilitation, Manchester City’s head coach Pep Guardiola (52) remains completely dedicated to the upcoming Premier League match against Sheffield United on Sunday, according to assistant manager Juanma Lillo (57).
Guardiola is presently recovering from surgery in Barcelona and will not be present on the touchline for Manchester City’s league fixtures against Sheffield and Fulham.
“The contact is continuous; Pep is watching Sheffield right now.
“What’s important is his health. It doesn’t keep him from being who he is. He’s fully focused on the match,” Lillo told reporters ahead of Sunday’s clash at Bramall Lane.
“He is telling us the surgery has been successful; his recovery has to take the necessary time. He feels fine.”
Despite Pep still being involved in the City set-up, Lillo said he would be delivering the team talk to the players in their match against Sheffield United.
“We won’t do a video conference because Pep doesn’t want it,” Lillo said.
Lillo praised City’s new 55-million pound ($69.41 million) signing Jeremy Doku (21), saying: “The team is at a good level, you’ve seen him (Doku); he has specific qualities. He can definitely help.
“Every time a new player arrives, we think they are going to bring something and help the team globally. It’s not about him and placing responsibility on him…”
City’s assistant manager also highlighted the importance of Portuguese international Bernardo Silva (29), who signed a contract extension until 2026 this week.
Silva joined City in 2017 and has made over 300 appearances in a trophy-laden spell at the club.
“Bernardo is that kind of player who, in order to look at his importance, you look at his past. His importance is plain to see,” Lillo said, adding that Silva was “good to go” after missing two matches due to injury.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will be unavailable until after the international break due to an emergency surgical procedure to address “severe” back pain.
Guardiola had been contending with a prolonged back issue and travelled to Barcelona for the surgery after City’s recent victory against Newcastle in the Premier League.
During his absence, assistant coach Junma Lilo will oversee the team for the next two matches against Sheffield United and Fulham.
City issued an official statement on Tuesday confirming Guardiola’s situation, mentioning that he underwent planned surgery for his back problem.
The surgery, performed by Dr. Mireia Illueca, was successful, and Guardiola will now recover and undergo rehabilitation in Barcelona.
“In his absence, assistant manager Juanma Lillo will oversee the coaching of the first team on the training field and will assume duties on the touchline until Pep’s return.
“He is expected to return after the forthcoming international break. Everyone at Manchester City wishes Pep a speedy recovery, and looks forward to seeing him back in Manchester soon.”
The fans of Manchester City will undoubtedly be hoping for a smooth and swift recovery for Guardiola, eagerly anticipating his return to the sidelines.
The 2023–24 season has kicked off exceptionally well under his guidance, as the team that clinched the treble last season secured theUEFA Super Cup and triumphed over Burnley and Newcastle in their initial two Premier League matches.
Up next, Manchester City is set to face Sheffield United on Sunday, followed by a match against Fulham at the Etihad Stadium six days later. Guardiola’s reentry into his managerial role is anticipated before the team’s encounter with West Ham at the London Stadium on September 16th.
The club is currently evaluating whether the Belgium international requires surgery for the issue, as stated by manager Pep Guardiola.
During City’s 3-0 victory over Burnley on Friday, De Bruyne was forced to exit the match during the first half after reaggravating the same problem that had prematurely ended his participation in the Champions League final in June.
Looking ahead to his team’s upcoming Super Cup clash against Sevilla in Athens on Wednesday, Guardiola confirmed during a press conference, “It’s a serious injury.”
“We have to decide if he needs surgery or no surgery, but he will be out for a few months. [The decision on surgery will be taken] in the next few days. It will be three of four months [out].”
De Bruyne missed City’s preseason fixtures but made his return in the second half of the Community Shield defeat to Arsenal.
He was picked from the start against Burnley, and ahead of the game, Guardiola said that the 32-year-old “felt good.”
“We could say don’t play, but this injury could happen later,” Guardiola added. “Before I took the decision, I spoke to the doctor, the physiotherapist, and him. He said he felt good.”
Guardiola also suggested City could now step up the search for new recruits in light of De Bruyne’s enforced absence.
Sources have told ESPN that they remain interested in West Ham United’s Lucas Paquetá, although there is a difference in valuation to resolve.
Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne, aged 32, has been excluded from the squad for the UEFA Super Cup clash against Sevilla due to a recurring hamstring injury he sustained during the team’s season opener.
The Belgian midfielder had to exit the field in the 36th minute of Manchester City’s 3-0 victory over Burnley on Friday.
This injury follows his previous hamstring issue during the Champions League final win in June, and Pep Guardiola, the manager, has confirmed it’s a recurrence of the same ailment.
“It’s the hamstring again, same position. I don’t know (how long he will be out), it depends on the magnitude of the injury but it will be a few weeks,” Guardiola said after the game at Burnley.
Guardiola has announced a roster of 22 players for the upcoming UEFA Super Cup match scheduled for Wednesday in Athens.
In preparation for the upcoming Premier League season, the Belgian football sensation presented 26 custom-made phones, each valued at £5,000.
De Bruyne surprised his fellow players with these luxurious devices, which were crafted by renowned custom mobile designers iDesign Gold, during an unexpected gathering on Thursday.
This gesture was influenced by Lionel Messi’s act of generosity when he presented Argentina’s World Cup-winning team and staff with 35 24-carat gold iPhones worth £175,000 earlier this year.
In response to De Bruyne’s initiative, discussions are underway for Pep Guardiola’s team to establish a partnership to create exclusive, tailor-made iPhones.
The club’s star players were rewarded by their talisman for their exceptional achievement in securing the historic treble.
Following a retrial, the 29-year-old was acquitted of one count of rape and one count of attempted rape in July.
Subsequently, he joined Ligue 1 side Lorient in preparation for the 2023–24 season.
Reports from The Mirror indicate that HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has initiated bankruptcy proceedings against the French player due to an outstanding tax bill of £800,000 ($1 million).
After his arrest in September 2021, Mendy was suspended by Manchester City, leading to his pay being withheld since then.
During a High Court hearing, Jacquille Jarrett, representing HMRC, mentioned that the debt proceedings had been postponed awaiting the verdict of the criminal trial.
It was anticipated that a resolution payment, sourced from the sale of his property or back pay from his former employer, would be arranged. However, these anticipated funds have yet to be received.
“There has been no contact from the debtor,” Ms Jarrett said, adding: “The agreement advises that an update would be given to HMRC, but no contact was made. We look to secure a bankruptcy order today.”
Mendy’s accountants provided details of his hopes to recuperate funds lost due to the charges brought against him. He is said to be in negotiations withformer club Manchester City over £9m–£10m in back pay following the not-guilty verdict, and he has put his £5m ($6.4m) house near Macclesfield on the market.
Mendy left the current Premier League champions upon the expiration of his contract back in June and was later cleared of the sexual offence charges following a retrial. In his first trial, lasting six months and ending in January 2023, he was cleared of six counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
“He himself has moved back to France, where he comes from,” the accountant said. “I would like to ask for a short extension because I am told very firmly by his agent that the pay issue will be resolved from Manchester City. He was very short of money indeed, the cost of the legal case were over £1m.”
The hearing was adjourned until October 4 to give Mendy time to sell the property in Cheshire.
Manchester City is showing interest in acquiring West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta, sources have informed ESPN.
While City has not yet presented a formal offer for the Brazilian midfielder, he ranks high on their list of potential targets.
The pursuit of Paqueta is regarded by the club as an independent move, separate from any developments concerning Bernardo Silva’s future.
Silva has communicated his desire for a fresh challenge away from the Etihad Stadium.
Despite interest from Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and the Saudi Pro League, sources indicate that City is growing increasingly confident in retaining the 28-year-old.
City has not received a formal bid for Silva and is preparing to extend a new contract offer to the Portuguese international.
Valued at over £70 million ($89.4 million) by West Ham, Paqueta’s potential departure is met with reluctance by the club, particularly following the transfer of Declan Rice to Arsenal earlier this summer.
Paqueta contributed to West Ham’s victory in the Europa League during his debut season at the London Stadium after his £50 million move from Lyon in 2022.
He has also enjoyed stints at Milan and Flamengo, and he was part of Brazil’s squad at the Qatar World Cup.
Manchester City has already strengthened its midfield during this transfer window with the £30 million acquisition of Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea.
Kovacic’s arrival coincided with Ilkay Gundogan’s transfer to Barcelona on a free deal. Additionally, City has received £30 million from Riyad Mahrez’s transfer to Al Ahli.
Furthermore, City is optimistic that Kyle Walker will decline interest from Bayern Munich and instead sign a new contract at the Etihad.
Although Walker’s current contract has one year remaining, City is considering a two-year extension.
Barcelona’s coach, Xavi Hernandez, is a strong admirer of Silva and aims to bring the Portugal international to Camp Nou during this summer transfer window.
Barcelona’s proposal included a season-long loan for Silva with a mandatory purchase option set at £50 million.
While the 28-year-old midfielder is open to a departure from Manchester City, the English club has made it clear to Barcelona that Silva is not available for transfer.
Silva has been an integral part of Manchester City since joining from Monaco in 2017 and is currently under contract with the club until June 2025.
Pep Guardiola expressed his frustration with the new stoppage time rules following Manchester City’s loss to Arsenal in the Community Shield.
The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Arsenal eventually winning 4-1 on penalties at Wembley. City had taken the lead with a goal, but Leandro Trossard’s deflected strike in the 111th minute denied them the victory.
The game saw eight minutes of added time initially, but due to the new rules aimed at combating time-wasting, referee Stuart Atwell allowed 14 minutes of additional time.
“This was a result of Kyle Walker and Thomas Partey requiring treatment for a clash of heads during the match. The extended stoppage time seemed to have an impact on the outcome of the match, leaving Guardiola visibly dissatisfied with the situation.
After the game, Guardiola expressed his frustration with the new rules: “It is not annoying, we have to get used to it. I had the feeling, not because we were winning 1-0, but just because I had the feeling that much didn’t happen to extend by eight minutes.
“But it is a good question for the international board [rule-making body, the International Football Association Board] and all the people because they don’t consult the managers, they don’t consult the players.
“What is their opinion, we have to accept it. Now the games will be 100 minutes, that’s for sure. It never happened today, and it took eight minutes. Imagine if they extended for goals every time you scored a goal in a game [that is] 4-3. You put 30 or 45 seconds on for seven goals, tomorrow morning 9 a.m. I am here playing.”
Perhaps not surprisingly, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta saw the other side of the argument. “It’s about effective time,” he said. “I think it’s really good to do that, because it was going too far, I think, and now teams are going to have to think twice. Now we have to be prepared to play 100 minutes because it’s going to happen every single week.”
City took the lead through Cole Palmer’s stunning effort in the 77th minute, and didn’t look threatened until Trossard’s stoppage-time strike took a huge deflection off Manuel Akanji.
Guardiola and his players would, of course, have liked to have won; City have now lost three consecutive Community Shields. However, they will take solace in the fact that in the seasons following the two previous defeats, they went on to be crowned Premier League champions.
Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, has voiced his apprehensions regarding the pressures placed on players, especially in light of recent developments such as the expanded Club World Cup and extended playing time in matches.
Having secured a treble victory last season by clinching the Champions League title, Manchester City is scheduled to participate in the December Club World Cup held in Saudi Arabia. This edition is intended to be the last with seven teams, as the subsequent tournament in the summer of 2025 will feature 32 teams and take place in the United States.
Furthermore, there has been a notable increase in added time during matches, a strategy observed during the previous World Cup held in Qatar, aimed at curbing time-wasting. This alteration is poised to be implemented in Premier League matches for the upcoming season.
Speaking ahead of his side opening their 2023-24 campaign with Sunday’s Community Shield clash against Arsenal, Guardiola said: “I know at the end of next season, we are going to make a (Club) World Cup in the United States after finishing the season, two or three more weeks. That means the holidays will be 15 days or maybe three weeks.
“I think it doesn’t exist already, pre-seasons. The problem is here (touching his head) – exhausted. Look already how many players are injured in pre-season, in bad conditions, humidity, hot, the pitches are not really good, especially in the States.
“It is what it is, so we have to adapt, adjust – but it is not normal.
“Now, for example, every game we’re going to play for 100 minutes. Wasting time – from my point of view it is not going to be solved by extending 10 more minutes. It’s more tiring for the players. It’s too much.
“FIFA, UEFA – more competitions. The World Cup – more teams. This (Club) World Cup – I don’t know how many teams.
“I don’t know what (is going to happen) in the future, for the players, even the managers, to prepare. That’s why you have to see exactly how much you demand of the players.
“Every day, season by season, it’s difficult to handle for the players. They love to play but they need also recovery, with the stress and tension they have. They make a show like they do in front of 55-60,000 people – that is a lot of energy, mental energy, and every week, to do it, is a lot.
“But every year is getting worse and worse, and will be worse. I don’t know how it is going to end, honestly.”
As City prepare to hunt down further silverware, Guardiola has stressed the need for a game-by-game approach in which they “respect incredibly the opponent, do our best to win in the way we believe is better – and after we will see”.
And he added: “I would say honestly we are closer to not repeating the treble than winning it, we are closer to not winning the Premier League than winning it. And no team ever won four in a row.
“Last season – I didn’t start thinking we are going to win the treble. We started, ‘let’s go to try to win (the Community Shield) against Liverpool’ and we lost 3-1.
“And after (that) we won and step by step, good moments. Normally we arrive (in the last few months of the season) in a good mentality and shape, and this is what we are going to try to do again.”
City’s inaugural Champions League victory in June further bolstered their impressive collection of honors under Guardiola’s leadership since 2016, which includes five league titles, two FA Cups, and four League Cups.
Guardiola, the Catalan mastermind, extended his commitment to the club by signing a contract that extends until 2025 in November of the previous year. When questioned about the possibility of contemplating an exit following the triumphant treble win, he responded by affirming his contentment and comfort with his decision to sign the contract.
“Nothing changed, for the fact of win or not win. It is how I am happy, and the people is happy, the board especially, the hierarchy, because in the end they decide which manager has to lead this group of players. If they are satisfied, I still am satisfied.
“I want to defend what we won and year by year, maybe at the end of the season I am tired, or I say we will talk with the club, or maybe extend more, I don’t know.”
Manchester City is pleased to announce the acquisition of Josko Gvardiol from RB Leipzig, solidifying a five-year contract.
Gvardiol, aged 21, marks the second addition to the squad during this summer’s transfer window, gearing up for the upcoming 2023/24 season. His signing follows that of fellow Croatian international Mateo Kovacic.
Similar to Kovacic’s trajectory, Gvardiol embarked on his professional journey at Dinamo Zagreb, renowned for fostering some of Croatia’s most accomplished talents.
In his tenure of two seasons within his home country, Gvardiol secured two Croatian League championships, one Croatian Cup, and a Croatian Super Cup before transitioning to RB Leipzig in Germany.
Having participated in 87 matches for the Red Bulls throughout the 2021/22 and 2022/23 seasons, Gvardiol notably contributed five goals and celebrated victory in securing two DFB-Pokal trophies.
Furthermore, Gvardiol’s impressive record extends to the international stage, as he has earned 21 caps representing Croatia. Notably, his performance played a pivotal role in Croatia’s commendable third-place finish in the 2022 World Cup finals held in Qatar.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Gvardiol shared his excitement about joining the Premier League. He eagerly anticipates commencing his journey under the guidance of Manchester City’s new manager, Pep Guardiola.
“I have always dreamed of one day playing in England and to be doing so now with Manchester City – after the season they have just had – is a real honour for me.
“Anyone who saw Manchester City play last season knows they are the best team in the world. To win the Treble says everything you need to know about the quality this team has.
“To be joining City is something very special for me and my family.
“To have the chance to work with Pep Guardiola, too, will be amazing. I know I am not yet the finished article and I am sure my game will progress under the best coach in football.
“To be linking up with Mateo Kovacic will also be special. He’s a top footballer and I hope we can both help City achieve another successful season in 2023/24 and then beyond.”
Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “We are very happy to bring Josko to Manchester City.
“He is a player we have watched closely, and we feel he has a superb set of attributes.
“Top clubs all over Europe have been monitoring him, so to bring him here is great news for us.
“Josko has so many qualities – everything you want in a centre-half. He is fast, competitive, combative, strong in the air, impressive in possession of the ball, with strong self-belief and a good character. He is left-footed, too, which offers us good options at the back.
“He is still young but his progress in the game has been rapid. We feel confident his upward trajectory will continue here at City working with Pep and his staff.”
Barcelona’s long-standing desire to acquire Joao Cancelo could finally be realized, as the Manchester City defender has reportedly agreed to personal terms with the Catalan club for a potential summer transfer.
Earlier, in January, Barcelona missed out on signing the Portuguese defender, as he opted to join Bayern Munich on loan, despite Barcelona being the favored destination.
Reported by Goal, Barcelona intends to utilize a portion of the funds gained from the impending transfer of Ousmane Dembele to Paris Saint-Germain to facilitate the acquisition of Cancelo.
Despite making appearances in Manchester City’s pre-season matches, the future of the former Benfica and Juventus defender at the Etihad Stadium remains uncertain.
Barcelona’s manager, Xavi, holds a significant admiration for Cancelo and desires to bring him to the club for the upcoming season. Similarly, the defender is keen on making the move to Camp Nou, having experienced differences with Pep Guardiola during the previous season.
Arsenal plan late Cancelo swoop
In a surprising turn, Arsenal might consider a last-minute attempt to secure the services of Manchester City’s Joao Cancelo, valued at £60 million, if the Portuguese talent remains available for transfer this summer, as reported by The Boot Room.
Having already invested approximately £200 million during this transfer window, including signings such as Declan Rice from West Ham and Juriel Timber from Ajax, Arsenal’s manager Mikel Arteta remains eager for further acquisitions.
Arsenal is aiming to disrupt the deal for Cancelo before he finalizes his move to Barcelona, who are currently leading in the pursuit of the former Inter Milan and Juventus defender.
According to a previous report by Sports Brief, Bayern Munich seems to be leaning towards not utilizing their option to convert the loan move of prominent defender Joao Cancelo from Manchester City into a permanent transfer during the upcoming summer transfer window.
The Portuguese talent, who departed Etihad Stadium in January to join the Bundesliga team on a six-month loan agreement, appears unlikely to make a permanent transition to Germany. It is expected that Bayern will not activate the £62 million clause required to officially secure Cancelo.
The report also suggests that Chelsea and Real Madrid are the two primary contenders if the 28-year-old decides to leave Manchester City this summer. Alternatively, Cancelo might continue to be a part of Pep Guardiola’s squad.
Manchester City has received the green light for their ambitious £300m stadium expansion project, which aims to increase the capacity of the Etihad Stadium to 62,000 seats.
The club has put forth a comprehensive renovation plan to enhance the fan experience and transform the venue into a year-round entertainment and leisure destination.
As part of the expansion, Manchester City plans to construct a 400-bed hotel, a TV studio, a roof walk, and a fan zone capable of accommodating up to 3,000 people.
The proposal has been approved by the Manchester Council’s planning committee, with several members expressing their support for the plan.
The project is expected to create approximately 3,000 jobs, including 1,795 new full-time positions, providing a significant boost to the economy of Greater Manchester.
It is estimated that around £70 million will be injected into the local economy annually.
Upon completion of the expansion, the capacity of the north stand will be increased by 7,900, resulting in a total capacity of 61,968 seats at the Etihad Stadium.
Danny Wilson, City’s Managing Director of city operations, said: “We are delighted that Manchester City Council’s planning committee has approved the Club’s proposals for a best-in-class fan experience and year-round entertainment and leisure destination at the Etihad Stadium.
“This development will not only enable the Club to enhance and expand its offering to fans and visitors on both matchday and non-matchday, but it will also create lasting long-term economic and social benefits for our local community, building on the regeneration work City Football Group has delivered inEast Manchester since 2008.”
Construction is expected to begin in November 2023 and the target remains to finish before the start of the 2025-26Premier League season in August.
The 37-year-old Spanish international had an illustrious career spanning two decades, with a significant part of it spent at Manchester City.
Silva joined Manchester City from Valencia in 2010 and enjoyed a successful ten-year stint, making over 400 appearances for the club and securing four Premier League titles during his time there.
After departing from City in 2020, he joined Real Sociedad and was set to enter his fourth season with the Spanish club.
Unfortunately, Silva suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury during a pre-season training session, leading him to make the tough decision to retire from professional football.
Throughout his career, he also had stints with Eibar and Celta Vigo.
On the international stage, Silva represented Spain with great distinction, earning 125 caps for the senior national team.
He was a crucial part of the Spanish squad that lifted the World Cup in 2010 and triumphed in the European Championships in both 2008 and 2012.
“Today is a sad day for me,” Silva said. “Today it is time to say goodbye to what I have dedicated my whole life to.
“Today it is time to say goodbye to my colleagues, who are like family to me. I will miss you very much.
“Ches (Valencia), Armeros (Eibar), Celtinas (Celta Vigo), Citizens (Man City) and Txuri Urdines (Real Sociedad)…thank you because you have made me feel at home.”
A number of former team-mates have shared messages of support for Silva. Among them was formerManchester City colleague Aymeric Laporte, who shared the simple message “Leyenda, gracias por todos” (‘Legend, thanks for everything)’.
“Mago” (magician) wrote Riyad Mahrez, who was part of the Manchester City squad for Silva’s final league title in 2018-19, referring to one of Silva’s nicknames.
“Thank you mago” was the reply from Edin Dzeko, who played alongside Silva for the pair’s first English title win in 2011-12.
Pep Guardiola has issued a warning to other Premier League teams while showering praise on Erling Haaland for his impressive fitness and form.
The Manchester City manager lauded the young star’s improved physical condition, evident during a pre-season match against Yokohama Marinos, where Haaland scored two goals in a 5-3 victory.
Guardiola emphasized the significance of Haaland finding the back of the net early in pre-season to regain his rhythm and top form.
The striker had a remarkable debut season in England, setting a Premier League scoring record with an impressive 36 goals.
However, his performance declined towards the end of the season, making these early pre-season goals a positive indicator for City and a potential sign of great things to come.
Speaking to reporters, Guardiola said, “Comparing last season, that period. He is fitter, much better, than last season when he arrived.
“I know we would love to be like last season. He looks good, but he is still a way from the best condition, like everyone.
“So, most important for him was to score two goals in the first game, because last season in the last games, he could not score. Important is the rhythm, the principles, we are working with all the time.
“We know exactly what he has to do; we know him, and in a few weeks we will be in better condition than now.”
Haaland’s phenomenal goal-scoring record last season made him one of the most sought-after players in world football.
With his improved fitness and form, City’s rivals in the Premier League should take note, as Guardiola’s assessment suggests Haaland could be an even more potent threat in the upcoming season.
His ability to find the net consistently makes him a key player in City’s title defense.
Guardiola’s side will be next seen in action in a friendly against Bayern Munich on July 26.
During Manchester City’s pre-season tour in Tokyo,superstar striker Erling Haaland received a delightful surprise from his teammates on his 23rd birthday.
Jack Grealish warmly welcomed him into a room where a birthday cake had been prepared, and the team serenaded Haaland with a cheerful rendition of the happy birthday song.
City will play friendly matches in Japan and South Korea as they prepare to defend their Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup titles next season.
Haaland will use the tour to get back to full fitness and boost his hopes of improving on last season’sGolden Boot-winning tally of 36 Premier League goals.
Haaland and his co-stars will take on Yokohama F. Marinos in their first pre-season match on Sunday.
According to Bild, Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and forward Thomas Muller are not pleased with the club’s pursuit of Walker.
The 33-year-old right-back has expressed his desire to leave City and join the Bavarian side.
Bayern Munich is looking to secure Walker on a two-year contract with an option for a third, which contradicts the club’s usual policy of refraining from offering long-term deals to players over the age of 30.
This deviation from the policy has caused frustration and resentment among Neuer and Muller.
Neuer, 37, and 33-year-old Muller wanted long-term contracts, too, but the former only saw his deal extended until 2024 while Muller was tied to the club until 2025.
Bayern risk upsetting a few of their players by pursuing Walker on a longer deal over their already established stars.
The England international will hope to line up with theGerman side when they take on City in a pre-season friendly on July 26.
Former Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy, who was found not guilty of rape after a retrial earlier this month, has signed with Ligue 1 club Lorient as a free agent.
Mendy had been cleared of one count of rape and one count of attempted rape in the retrial, following his previous acquittal of six counts of rape at the initial trial in January.
The left-back, who was released by Manchester City, has now secured a contract with French club Lorient.
Manchester City star, Bernardo Silva, has reportedly chosen Barcelona as his next club and is willing to reject other offers while waiting for the Spanish champions.
Despite the potential for a new contract with City and a lucrative offer from Paris Saint-Germain, the 28-year-old Portuguese midfielder and winger has his sights set on joining Barcelona.
Silva has spent the past six years at Manchester City and had previously been linked with a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia this summer.
However, his intention appears to be holding out for a transfer to Barcelona.
However, it remains uncertain whether Barcelona, given their precarious financial situation, will make a substantial offer that satisfies Manchester City.
Silva has another two years left on his City deal, but Mundo Deportivo state that Pep Guardiola wouldn’t stand in Silva’s way, granted the transfer fee is acceptable to City.
Silva will have to wait until Barcelona find the money to make a suitable offer for him. More economic levers may have to be pulled in order for the Catalans to be in a position to afford signing him.
Dutch and former Barcelona forward, Memphis Depay, has joined numerous players incongratulating Benjamin Mendy, the France and Manchester City defender, after he was acquitted of all rape charges following a lengthy two-and-a-half-year trial.
In a recent tweet, Depay posed six questions pondering the future of Mendy’s life and career, revealing that he had spoken to him once via FaceTime while he was in jail.
“I’ve never touched on this subject because I didn’t know all the details, but I’ve spoken to him once true FaceTime while behind bars and faced him on the pitch a couple times.. I didn’t see any evil in the man,” his tweet read in part.
He stressed that it was time athletes stood up against such cases. “We can’t accept this to happen to us as athletes..”
Mendy could not hold back his tears after he was cleared of all rape charges in a retrial on July 14, 2023.
Reports by the British media indicates that the French footballer was cleared by a jury of six men and six women at Chester Crown Court after three hours of deliberation.
Mendy was cleared of the remaining two counts of rape – one in October 2018 and the other in October 2020.
He was initially cleared of 8 counts in September 2022 in his first trial. However, the jury could not reach an agreement on the other two rape counts and thus adjured for a retrial.
The 28-year-old has now been cleared of all the charges after three years since his first arrest.
All cases dismissed. So what are we doing now? Who is going to help this brother heal? Who’s going to be Responsable for the damage on he’s name? How he’s going to have he’s career back? Many years of investment to become a professional football player…. Now what!? I’ve never touched on this subject because I didn’t know all the details, but I’ve spoken to him once true FaceTime while behind bars and faced him on the pitch a couple times.. I didn’t see any evil in the man. We can’t accept this to happen to us as athletes.. Who’s going to stand up for us in the time of need not when the damage is already done? Don’t turn your head people.
Following his acquittal of the remaining charges in his rape case, French international footballerBenjamin Mendy expressed his gratitude by saying “Alhamdulillah” (Thank God) in an interview with SkySports.
The jury, consisting of six men and six women at Chester Crown Court, took three hours to reach the verdict.
Mendy faced a retrial for one count of rape and one count of attempted rape involving two women, with incidents alleged to have occurred in October 2018 and October 2020.
These two charges were the final ones out of the total of 10 counts, as he had been found not guilty of eight counts in September of the previous year.
The jury’s inability to reach a unanimous decision on the remaining two charges necessitated a retrial.
The 28-year-old has now been cleared of all the charges.
Benjamin Mendy was released byManchester City after his contract ended in June 2023 after he was suspended after his arrest in 2021.
Former Manchester City defender, Benjamin Mendy, was overcome with emotion as he was declared not guilty of all rape charges during a retrial on July 14, 2023.
According to reports from the British Media, a jury consisting of six men and six women at Chester Crown Court deliberated for three hours before reaching the verdict.
Mendy was acquitted of the two remaining counts of rape, one allegedly occurring in October 2018 and the other in October 2020.
In his initial trial in September 2022, he had been cleared of eight counts but the jury had been unable to reach a unanimous decision on the other two rape charges, leading to the retrial.
The 28-year-old has now been cleared of all the charges after three years since his first arrest.
Benjamin Mendy was released by Manchester City after his contract ended in June 2023 after he was suspended after his arrest in 2021.
Reports from the Daily Record suggests that, Manchester City has turned down Paris Saint-Germain’s initial bid for Bernardo Silva.
However, it is stated that Silva himself has expressed a desire to move to France.
While there is reported interest from Saudi Arabia and Barcelona, Paris is believed to be Silva’s preferred destination.
PSG’s pursuit of Silva is being driven by Luis Campos, the club’s football advisor, who shares a close friendship with Silva after signing him for Monaco back in 2014.
Despite PSG’s interest, Manchester City remains optimistic about persuading Silva to remain at the club and is keen for him to extend his contract.
His current deal expires in 2025, and the club may need to force the Portugal international to make a decision over his future.
Bayern Munich is reportedly considering Bayer Leverkusen’s promising defender, Jeremie Frimpong, as an alternative option in their search for defensive reinforcement.
This comes amidst uncertainty surrounding the future of their primary transfer target, Kyle Walker, who currently plays for Manchester City.
The potential move signifies a strategic change for Bayern as they look to strengthen their backline for the upcoming season.
Bayer Leverkusen has recently set a price tag of 50 million euros for Frimpong, who has impressed as one of the standout defenders in the Bundesliga this season, attracting attention from several European clubs.
Jeremie Frimpong has demonstrated tremendous promise, and his future in football seems bright.
His current Bayer Leverkusen contract is set to expire in the summer of 2025, giving the team considerable influence over his future.
The full-back has provided eight goals and seven assists in the33 Bundesliga games he has played this season, in addition to his defensive prowess.
Winger for Manchester City, Riyad Mahrezis reportedly a target for Al-Ahli. The Saudi club are reportedly preparing a £30 million ($39 million) bid for his services.
Mahrez still has two years remaining on his contract with Manchester City. Al-Ahli, a Saudi Arabian team, is believed to be willing to offer around £30 million for the 32-year-old player.
However, according to The Athletic, Mahrez is currently undecided about the potential deal, as he contemplates the offered wages of approximately £25 million per year ($32 million).
Moreover, City are said to be also mulling over the deal, and aren’t in a hurry to accept even if it would represent terrific value for money considering Mahrez’s age.
Much will depend on whether both the player and the club are eager to accept the deal. Mahrez is still a key player forCity and Pep Guardiola.
The situation will continue to evolve over the coming weeks.
Tottenham is the newest Premier League team to enter the bidding for Chelsea defender Levi Colwill.
Due to worries that they would miss out on signing Mickey van de Ven, Spurs have entered the competition for the talent of Chelsea’s gifted center-back Colwill.
The young defender has a lengthy list of supporters, and this north London club is the latest.
Liverpool and Manchester City are also keen on securing the services of the 20 year-old while Brighton want him on a permanent deal after he spent the last season on loan with the Seagulls.
Chelsea are adamant on keeping hold of the Southampton-born player and have reiterated the youngster isn’t for sale.
Mauricio Pochettino is set to hand him a key role for next season in a bid to keep him at the club.
Colwill played a key role in England’s Under 21 European winning campaign recently. He started five out of six games as England conceded zero goals throughout the tournament.
Pep Guardiola isn’t afraid to tell ithow it is, but one of his public criticisms of a player was difficult for the player to take since he believed his manager’s evaluation to be unreliable.
Kalvin Phillips was acquired by Manchester City for £50 million from Leeds United, yet his rookie campaign with the treble-winning squad can be overlooked as if it never happened.
Despite not having played much, he was selected for England’s World Cup squad. However, because of an injury he was still nursing in Qatar, he was only able to play for 35 minutes, casting doubt on his invitation.
Phillips rejects Guardiola’s criticism
According to Football365, Pep Guardiola was not too impressed with how the midfielder turned up ‘overweight’ at the club’s training facilities after the tournament in Qatar.
“I’d probably say it was a little bit hard to take just because of how much it was oversized and how many people started talking about it,” he said.
“I know obviously the manager made his comments and stuff like that, and I respected them because I did come back and I – I wasn’t overweight for me, but the manager has seen it in a very different way.”
He returned to the bench for the game against his former club after missing the FA Cup game against Chelsea and was available for all games afterwards.
“I did my best to try to get as fit as possible… It was just one of those things where there was just a misunderstanding between me and some staff members.”
Pirlo rejects Phillips’ comparison
Sports Brief reported that Italian legend, Andrea Pirlo rejected comparisons to Phillips, who is famously dubbed after him in Leeds.
He is dubbed the Yorkshire Pirlo in his hometown even though the former Juventus manager is not in agreement as he found no similarities between them, although he did acknowledge him as a very good player.
Gabriel Jesus has disclosed that his decision to depart Manchester City was prompted by an emotional incident involving Pep Guardiola, which left him in tears after being excluded from a Champions League starting lineup.
In pursuit of more consistent opportunities in the starting eleven, Jesus made the move to Arsenal last summer from the reigning Premier League champions.
During an interview on the Denilson Show podcast, the Brazilian striker revealed that he realized he wanted to leave Manchester City when he was not selected to play in the team’s match against Paris Saint-Germain in November 2021.
The experience had a profound impact on him, leading him to seek a fresh start elsewhere.
Jesus said: “He put Zinchenko as a false nine. Crazy thing.
“The day before, he didn’t even use him [Zinchenko] in training, he had put me in as striker. Zinchenko even joked with me, ‘That day I felt bad for you’.
“He told us the team, I didn’t even eat. I went straight to the room, crying.
“I called my mother to talk, ‘I want to leave’. He put a left-back there. I went crazy.”
Pep Guardiola had a troubled relationship with Gabriel Jesus
The four-time Premier League winner, 26, also revealed that the PSG incident was not the only time that he did not see eye to eye with Guardiola.
He said: “Five minutes after Mbappe scored the goal for 1-0, he [Guardiola] called me. I gave an assist and scored and we turned it around 2-1.
“In the next game, I thought I was going to play and I didn’t play.
“There was a lot of that with him and it’s not easy. That’s when I decided I didn’t want to stay any more and I decided to leave.”
Both Jesus and Zinchenko signed for the Gunners months later, finishing as Premier League runners-up to City having sat top for the majority of the 2022-23 campaign.
Jack Grealish has recently constructed a bar in his lavish multimillion-dollar residence, following his wild celebrations to mark Manchester City’s historic season, according to reports.
City achieved the remarkable feat of winning the treble by securing the UEFA Champions League title against Inter Milan, in addition to clinching the Premier League trophy and the FA Cup by defeating Arsenal and Manchester United, respectively.
Several online videos showcased Grealish leading the exuberant celebrations, reaching a climax after City’s triumph in Istanbul.
Despite the festivities, Grealish was seen the next morning still wearing his football kit before jetting off to Ibiza.
He also made headlines for assisting the police in controlling the crowds during an open-air trophy parade.
Contrary to expectations, the new bar in Grealish’s home is said to offer only healthy beverage options such as wheatgrass shots and spirulina smoothies, as reported by The Sun.
This choice of drinks may cater more to the preferences of Grealish’s fiancée, Sasha Atwood, who reportedly follows a rigorous early morning gym routine.
The ‘healthy bar’ is among the new leisure items the former Aston Villa captain has introduced, in addition to a plunge room, a sauna, a spa, and a changing room.
Grealish involved in gruelling drills
This was much-needed for the winger, who would want to get himself into peak condition after watching from the sub’s bench without playing a single minute.
After the game, Grealish was also mobbed by a group of eager stewards, who were eager to take photos withthe Man City superstar and acquire his autograph.
Respected Ghanaian commentator, Joe Lartey, has provided insight into the motivations behind Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s decision to invite the renowned European football powerhouse, Real Madrid, to play against the Black Stars in 1962.
According to Lartey, Ghana was rapidly establishing itself as a football force in Africa during the 1960s, and Dr. Nkrumah, the country’s first president, sought to showcase the immense talent and potential of the Black Stars to the global stage.
Lartey further disclosed that while working closely with Ohene Gyan, the Sports Director at the time, it was Dr. Nkrumah himself who personally extended the invitation to Real Madrid, surprising many with his direct involvement in the matter.
This decision sparked a passionate debate regarding the significance of Ghana facing such a formidable opponent, considering the growing strength of the Black Stars at the time.
In an interview with Kafui Dey, Lartey explained Nkrumah’s perspective, saying, “Kwame Nkrumah discovered the importance of unity especially in politics. He attended school at Achimota and did a bit of sports and he realized that football in particular had a strong unifying force.”
He further added that, “After appointing Ohene Gyan as Director of Sports for Ghana. He sometimes planned with him some of the sports activities organized. Nkrumah worked solo in inviting Real Madrid to play with the Black Stars team. The idea was to show how far we’ve developed in football.”
“We were then just beginning to show our strength in football. There was a big debate whether it was proper for the Black Stars to play against a world-famous club side like Real Madrid because they were champions in Europe and dreaded by opponents,” Joe Lartey stated.
The veteran Ghanaian commentator emphasized that Ghana was only starting to demonstrate its football strength at that time and playing against a world-famous club like Real Madrid was a subject of intense debate.
This historic match against one of Europe’s most prestigious clubs became a significant moment in Ghanaian football history and helped raise the profile of the Black Stars on the international stage.
Report fromUEFA’s Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) adjudicatory committee, determined that two £15 million payments from a broker were actually funds provided by Manchester City’s owners, disguised as sponsorship revenue.
The report, which serves as the written explanation behind UEFA’s decision to suspend Manchester City from European competition for two years, was not made public initially due to the club’s appeal against the ruling.
However, it has now been obtained by the creators of a YouTube film released recently and has also been reviewed by The Times.
It provides further insights into UEFA’s investigation into Manchester City’s financial activities and the allegations of breaching Financial Fair Play regulations.
It should be noted that the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) later overturned the CFCB’s verdict, leading to Manchester City’s suspension being lifted.
When contacted by the PA news agency, UEFA declined to comment on the report.
The report reveals that during a UEFA disciplinary hearing, Manchester City’s lawyersargued that two £15 million sponsorship payments from telecommunications company Etisalat in 2012 and 2013 were actually made by a broker named Jaber Mohammed.
It was further stated that Etisalat repaid the money to City’s owners in 2015.
According to The Times, the adjudicatory committee of the CFCB concluded that arrangements were made to attribute these payments to the sponsorship obligations of Etisalat, disguising their true purpose as equity funding provided by the Abu Dhabi United Group (ADUG), a private equity fund controlled by City owner Sheikh Mansour.
The report states that City’s management was aware of this arrangement.
In July 2020, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) overturned Manchester City’s two-year suspension imposed by UEFA.
CAS noted that UEFA should not have dealt with the charges related to Etisalat as they had surpassed the five-year time limit.
It is unclear whether the Etisalat payments are part of the Premier League’s ongoing case against Manchester City, which involves 115 charges related to alleged breaches of financial rules and a failure to cooperate with the investigation.
However, if they are included, they would not be time-barred.
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