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Wolverhampton Wanderers are currently undergoing pre-season training in Portugal. The team played their first training camp match against Santa Clara on Tuesday, resulting in a 2-1 defeat for Wolves. Despite the loss, manager Vitor Pereira saw positive signs in the game. Player Fer Lopez received praise for his lively performance, and Sasa Kalajdzic was also fairly praised for his display, which included scoring a well-taken goal. Meanwhile, Manchester City player Rico Lewis, currently on holiday in Portugal following the conclusion of City's 2023/24 season, posted a picture on his Instagram Story on Tuesday wearing a Wolves shirt. The shirt specifically had 'FORBS 26' on the back. This refers to Carlos Forbs, Lewis's former teammate from their time together in the Manchester City academy, where they played for both the U18s and U23s. While Lewis progressed to Manchester City's first-team squad, Forbs left the club in the summer of 2023 to join Ajax. Despite their separate career paths, Lewis and Forbs have remained good friends, evidenced by Lewis tagging Forbs in an Instagram post earlier this year. Lewis wearing the Wolves shirt is a gesture of support for his friend, who now plays for Wolves. Forbs, known for being prolific in City's academy, had a challenging first season playing senior football for Ajax.
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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers face a significant challenge replacing All-Pro left tackle Tristan Wirfs, who underwent knee surgery on July 8th and is expected to start the 2025 season on the physically unable to perform list, sidelining him for at least four games. Potential replacements on the current depth chart include veteran Charlie Heck and undrafted rookie Benjamin Chukwuma, while options like moving right tackle Luke Goedeke or left guard Ben Bredeson are also being considered. Resolving this position battle is a top camp priority, especially with the team starting the season with two road games and hosting the defending Super Bowl champions in Week 4. The Buccaneers' offense, largely unchanged and coming off a season of balanced scoring, features a crowded wide receiver competition beyond Mike Evans. Chris Godwin's recovery from a brutal 2024 ankle dislocation and his readiness for Week 1 is a key factor. The team added first-round pick Emeka Egbuka, who is poised for the slot role, and has second-year player Jalen McMillan in line for more playing time. Veterans Sterling Shepard and Trey Palmer, plus seventh-rounder Tez Johnson, create significant depth and a positive challenge for the team. Defensively, the Buccaneers' biggest offseason addition is pass rusher Haason Reddick, acquired to boost edge pressure after defensive tackles led the team in sacks in 2024. Following a forgettable season with the Jets, Reddick joins an aggressive Todd Bowles scheme hoping to recapture his previous form of four consecutive double-digit sack seasons. Additionally, fourth-round pick David Walker, the highest NFL draftee ever from Central Arkansas, generated excitement among coaches during rookie minicamp.
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Guests arriving at Munich's FGV Schmidle studios in mid-May encountered strict secrecy protocols for an undisclosed project involving footballer Jamal Musiala. Attendees surrendered phones with camera lenses covered, signed binding confidentiality agreements, and adhered to a no-leaks policy under tightly drawn curtains. Two months later during Bayern Munich's Club World Cup quarter-final against Paris Saint-Germain, Musiala suffered a catastrophic leg injury. After chasing a loose ball and colliding, his foot twisted abnormally, resulting in a broken fibula, fractured ankle, and ruptured ligaments amid intense pain and distress. The previously guarded secret was revealed: Musiala features as a cover star for EA SPORTS FC 26 alongside Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham. This explains the earlier Munich filming session where Musiala appeared happy and engaged during promotional shoots. Musiala expressed profound personal significance about the cover, recalling childhood gaming sessions where he idolized players like Messi and Ronaldo. "I'd watch their skills then practice in the park," he shared. "Being selected feels surreal—a dream achieved after imagining my idols in this position." The celebratory reveal coincided with Musiala's challenging recovery from surgery. Doctors estimate his return to play no earlier than November, casting the honor against a backdrop of rehabilitation and uncertainty. Via social media, Musiala thanked supporters for their messages following his injury: "The surgery went well. I'm in good care and will use this period to rebuild my strength and positivity."
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Everton and Accrington Stanley (ASFC) played a pre-season friendly. Everton started with: J. Pickford; A. Young, J. O'Brien, M. Keane, V. Mykolenko; J. Garner, I. Gueye; J. Harrison, C. Alcaraz, I. Ndiaye; Beto. During the match, Everton made substitutions: O'Brien, Tamen, and Beto came on for Branthwaite, Mykolenko, and Garner. Accrington Stanley made multiple changes: Kelly, Sass, Coyle, Papoola, Brown, Walton, Smith, and Tunstall replaced Wright, Grant, Rawson, Whalley, Sinclair, Caton, Martin, and J. Woods. The home side (Accrington Stanley) started stronger with an unconverted early chance. As the first half progressed, the visitors (Everton) created clearer opportunities but lacked effectiveness, resulting in a dull first half. The Accrington Stanley goalkeeper made several good saves during the match. Beto scored an equalizer for Everton ("the Toffees"). Live updates and pre-match analysis were provided by Gianluca Pantano on VAVEL.
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Everton begins their 2025/26 preseason with a friendly match away at Accrington Stanley. Jarrad Branthwaite will captain the team for this opening fixture, and Everton is fielding a strong lineup despite the friendly nature of the game. This match comes just over 50 days after they concluded the 2024/25 season. The Blues are still addressing significant gaps in their squad following the departure of nearly a dozen players over the summer due to expiring contracts and loan endings. Manager David Moyes has overseen the signings of Carlos Alcaraz, Thierno Barry, and Mark Travers, but the club still requires reinforcements, specifically a right winger and additional cover at fullback and midfield. Several key players, including Jordan Pickford, Idrissa Gueye, and Iliman Ndiaye, have only recently returned from extended summer holidays and are unlikely to feature in tonight's match. Tonight's opponents, Accrington Stanley, narrowly avoided relegation by finishing 21st in EFL League Two last season. The article provides historical context, noting the original Accrington club was a Football League founder in 1888 before folding, with Stanley Villa later adopting the Accrington Stanley name. The match details are as follows: It is the first preseason friendly of 2025/26, scheduled for Tuesday, July 15th at 7:45 p.m. BST (2:45 p.m. ET / 11:45 a.m. PT). The venue is the Wham Stadium in Accrington, England, which has a capacity of 5,450. Weather conditions are forecasted to be 57°F (14°C) with rain showers (47% chance) and 11 mph winds. The match will not be televised in the US, UK, or Canada but will be available on VG+ in Norway.
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Ethan Nwaneri has decided to reject interest from other clubs, including Borussia Dortmund, and is set to sign a new contract with Arsenal. This comes after weeks of speculation about his future, with only one year left on his previous deal and reported hesitation due to concerns over securing sufficient first-team playing time. Borussia Dortmund had specifically targeted Nwaneri, offering a long-term midfield prospect role and a tailored development plan similar to the one that helped Jude Bellingham succeed. Their model promised significant game time and a central role, an offer many young talents would find hard to refuse. Despite this enticing alternative and the recent arrivals strengthening Arsenal's attack (like Noni Madueke and the potential signing of Eberechi Eze), Nwaneri has chosen to stay at his boyhood club. His decision signals a strong belief in his ability to earn a long-term role and compete for a starting spot within Mikel Arteta's squad. The 18-year-old forward already has significant experience for his age, making 26 Premier League appearances (4 goals, 2 assists) and featuring in 7 Champions League matches (2 goals). His new contract represents the next step in his development at Arsenal, where he could potentially become a deputy for Martin Ødegaard.
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Manchester United are set to receive approximately £2.1 million from the transfer of former midfielder Maxi Oyedele. This follows their earlier earnings of over £10 million this summer from sell-on clauses in previous player departures, including £6 million from Anthony Elanga's move to Newcastle United and £7.6 million from Álvaro Carreras' return to Real Madrid. The 20-year-old Oyedele, who joined Legia Warsaw in summer 2024 and is recognized for his tenacity and ball-winning skills, is moving to RC Strasbourg Alsace. The Ligue 1 club, affiliated with Chelsea, has triggered his €6 million release clause to secure his transfer from the Polish Ekstraklasa side. These financial gains come as United operate with a restricted summer transfer budget after missing European qualification. Despite publicly excluding forwards Marcus Rashford, Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, and Jadon Sancho from first-team training at Carrington, the club has yet to sell any fringe players to fund manager Ruben Amorim's squad overhaul.
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Copa Airlines has announced plans to significantly expand its network within the Dominican Republic starting in January 2026. This expansion includes launching new non-stop flights to Puerto Plata and reinstating suspended service to Santiago de los Caballeros, strengthening the airline's Caribbean presence. Flights to Puerto Plata's Gregorio Luperón International Airport, Copa's fourth Dominican destination alongside Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and Santiago, will commence on January 13, 2026. The airline will operate three weekly flights (Tuesdays, Fridays, Sundays) using Boeing 737 aircraft seating approximately 166 passengers. The schedule features flights departing Panama City at 7:55 a.m. and arriving in Puerto Plata at 11:32 a.m. local time, with return flights leaving Puerto Plata at 12:37 p.m. and arriving in Panama City at 2:19 p.m. local time. Simultaneously, on January 15, 2026, Copa Airlines will resume operations to Santiago de los Caballeros, the Dominican Republic's second-largest city and a major commercial and industrial hub. This reinstatement reflects the airline's confidence in Santiago's economic and tourism potential. The airline emphasizes that this strategic expansion aims to tap into tourism and economic development opportunities in the Dominican Republic, particularly the busy north coast. Copa CEO Pedro Heilbron highlighted that the increased connectivity will foster greater cultural connections and economic relationships between Panama, the Dominican Republic, and other interconnected regions. The new routes are expected to bring significant numbers of tourists and business travelers, generating direct economic benefits for local businesses like hotels and restaurants, creating employment opportunities, and promoting regional economic growth. Central to Copa Airlines' Caribbean strategy is its Hub of the Americas at Panama City's Tocumen International Airport (PTY), which facilitates convenient connections across North America, South America, Central America, and the Caribbean.
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Terrance Ferguson, a rookie tight end for the Los Angeles Rams, married his high school sweetheart, Sophia Ferguson (maiden name Meyer), this weekend at Spruce Mountain in Larkspur, Colorado. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and former Oregon Ducks teammates, including notable athletes such as Cleveland Browns quarterback Dillon Gabriel (a close friend), Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Patrick Herbert, Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Jeffrey Bassa, and former Oregon quarterback Ty Thompson. The wedding took place on a 450-acre ranch an hour outside of Denver, reflecting the couple's strong ties to Colorado; Ferguson attended Heritage High School in Littleton, while Sophia went to a nearby school. Ferguson proposed to Sophia in July of last year during a trip to Telluride in Western Colorado, presenting her with a ring from Happy Jewelers, an Orange County-based jeweler known for working with athletes and celebrities. In an Instagram post about the proposal, Ferguson quoted Bible verses (1 Corinthians 13:4-7) emphasizing love's virtues. Dillon Gabriel shared enthusiastic praise for the wedding on Instagram, highlighting Ferguson's speeches and dance moves, and attended the rehearsal dinner the previous day with his partner, Zo Caswell. Photos from the event were shared by the bride, and Caswell's Instagram story showed the couples enjoying pool time in Denver ahead of the wedding. Professionally, Ferguson was drafted by the Rams with the No. 46 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft but has not yet signed a contract, as he and other recent draft picks seek fully guaranteed deals following examples like Jayden Higgins and Carson Schwesinger. At Oregon, Ferguson was a key player in the 2024 undefeated season, recording 43 receptions for 591 yards and three touchdowns. He is expected to be the Rams' No. 2 tight end behind veteran Tyler Higbee, with potential for increased playing time due to Higbee's injury history.
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The Athletic's Full Time newsletter provides a recap of recent women's soccer tournaments. Key events include the conclusion of group stages for the UEFA Women's Euros and the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, which have now determined their quarterfinal matchups. Additionally, the Copa América Femenina has commenced, highlighted by Uruguayan player Belén Aquino scoring the tournament's first goal for her team. Brazilian legend Marta featured in a recent match but was substituted in the 74th minute for 20-year-old Dudinha, signaling a potential generational shift. Marta acknowledged she is weighing her career continuation against a "very strong desire to become a mother," which may prevent her participation in the 2027 World Cup in Brazil when she would be 41. While calling the decision premature, she emphasized her current focus on leading Brazil to another Copa América title. The newsletter also notes that Delphine Cascarino's standout performance for France was unsurprising to viewers familiar with her recent form in the NWSL, particularly with the San Diego Wave.
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The group stage of the Women's Euro 2025 in Switzerland concluded with record-breaking achievements. Prior to the tournament, a record of over 600,000 tickets were sold. During the group stage, 461,582 fans attended matches, with 22 out of 24 games sold out. The tournament set the record for the highest attendance at a group stage match not involving the host nation twice: 29,520 saw Spain defeat Portugal 5-0 in Bern, followed by 34,165 spectators for Germany's 2-1 win over Denmark in Basel. The Germany-Denmark match also set records for the most fans at a women's football match in Switzerland and the most away fans at a Women's Euro match (17,000). Switzerland's match against Norway in Basel drew 34,063 spectators, setting a record for the Swiss women's national team. The average group stage attendance was 19,233 per match. Digital engagement was also a resounding success, with 8.4 million social media interactions during the group stage (a 55% increase on 2022). Video views rose to 189.4 million from 113.7 million, and website/app views reached 30 million (a 92% increase). On the pitch, the group stage produced a record 89 goals, surpassing the 2022 group stage record of 78 and nearing the total tournament record of 95 goals set that year.
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Tottenham Hotspur are showing significant ambition in the summer transfer window, having already secured the signing of Mohammed Kudus from West Ham and expressing interest in Nottingham Forest's Morgan Gibbs-White. Their midfield rebuild also includes Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, identified as a 'dream' target for manager Thomas Frank. However, Crystal Palace are reluctant to sell Wharton, especially as they face potential departures of other key players like Marc Guehi and interest from Arsenal in Eberechi Eze. According to transfer insider Dean Jones, Crystal Palace now value Adam Wharton at over £80 million. The club internally believes they should aim for a fee similar to the £105 million Arsenal paid West Ham for Declan Rice two years ago, stating "there’s no reason they shouldn’t aim for a Rice-style fee". While acknowledging Wharton is a brilliant player, the article argues Palace may not be entitled to such a high fee. Statistical comparisons show that Rice was demonstrably superior during his time at West Ham compared to Wharton at Palace, outperforming him in key areas like goal contributions, defensive actions, and attacking impact. Consequently, although Tottenham are very keen on the England international, securing a deal appears unlikely if Crystal Palace maintains its demand for an astronomical transfer fee exceeding £80 million.
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The Los Angeles Rams' running back room for 2025 appears well-stocked with three young prospects: Kyren Williams (ranked 85th best player by peers), rookie Jarquez Hunter (noted for big plays in college), and Blake Corum. Blake Corum, drafted in the Top 100 last year, saw limited action (119 offensive reps) before breaking his arm early in the season finale. His rookie season stats included 207 rushing yards on 58 carries (3.6 YPC), 7 catches for 58 yards, and 186 kickoff return yards, with no touchdowns. Corum is described as a natural runner with good feel for the game. At just under 5'8" and 205 lbs (he prefers 210 lbs), he possesses quick darting moves, jump cuts, lateral agility, burst, balance, and change of direction skills, reflected in strong Combine times (3cone: 6.82, shuttle: 4.12). While his long speed (4.53) and 10-yard split (1.58) are solid but not outstanding, film suggests he accelerates quickly (reaching 21.1 mph in 4 seconds). He is not a scat back or a true power back, despite a powerfully built, compact frame (like a "fire hydrant") and exceptional strength (27 bench press reps). His low center of gravity and leg drive make him difficult to tackle without a full wrap-up. Corum excels at pressing the line of scrimmage with exceptional vision to identify holes and read blocks. He hits creases decisively but also shows patience and nimbleness, waiting for blocks to set up before exploding tightly off them, particularly gaining extra yards at the second level. While draft previews questioned his receiving ability due to limited use at Michigan, his film shows good hands, quick transition from run to catch, and reliability on check downs. Improvement is possible, but the Rams' offense doesn't require extensive route running from backs. The Rams, under GM Snead and Coach McVay, have consistently drafted running backs with mixed results. While Kyren Williams (Round 5) is a success, Cam Akers (Rd2) and Darrell Henderson (Rd3) underperformed relative to draft position. Later picks like Zach Evans, Jake Funk, John Kelly, and Sam Rogers did not pan out. Drafting Hunter (Rd3 #90) and Corum (Rd3 #83) in consecutive years mirrors the Henderson/Akers selections in 2019/2020. Overall, the Rams enter 2025 with a running back group flush with potential.
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Everton may have an ideal chance to sign goalkeeper Michael Cooper from Sheffield United this summer. Cooper was one of the Championship's top-performing goalkeepers last season, but Sheffield United failed to secure promotion. This likely forces the club to sell some key players, including Cooper. Sheffield United's situation is further complicated by the arrival of new head coach Ruben Selles, who is reassessing the squad. Selles is reportedly giving goalkeeper Ivo Grbic, who conceded 32 goals in his first 10 appearances before being loaned to Rizespor, another opportunity to compete for the starting spot at Bramall Lane. This development increases the likelihood of Cooper being allowed to leave the club. Everton has a clear need for a goalkeeper. While Jordan Pickford remains the number one, he is now 31, necessitating a long-term succession plan. Furthermore, backups Joao Virginia and Asmir Begovic have left the club after their contracts expired, creating an immediate requirement for a reliable deputy. Cooper, with his consistent performances at a high level in the Championship for Sheffield United and previously Plymouth Argyle, is viewed as an excellent potential signing to address both Everton's immediate backup needs and future starting role.
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Everton are showing interest in signing Jack Grealish this summer, with the Friedkin ownership now able to spend money at the club. Manager David Moyes is demanding more signings following the recent addition of Thierno Barry, recognizing that quality attacking players are needed around the Frenchman. While preparing for the first pre-season friendly against Accrington Stanley, Moyes currently lacks new faces. Grealish's future at Manchester City is uncertain this summer, prompting Everton's interest. Manchester City want his future resolved by the end of July as players return for pre-season under Pep Guardiola. Although a move away would mean leaving a European powerhouse, Grealish needs to secure regular playing time. Amidst the transfer speculation, Grealish publicly expressed his affection for Manchester City and its fans, emphatically stating his love for the club and supporters while attending an Oasis concert. Everton is considered a potential destination for Grealish, offering the 29-year-old winger the chance to remain in the northwest. While Grealish clearly retains affection for City, Everton's financial constraints likely mean they could only propose a loan deal. Grealish needs to move for game time, and Everton could present an ideal opportunity, especially as they are actively seeking a new winger following the departures of Jack Harrison and Jesper Lindstrom. The Friedkin ownership desires a statement signing, and Grealish fits that profile.
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Sporting CP President Frederico Varandas has announced that striker Viktor Gyokeres will face a heavy fine and be required to apologize to his teammates for failing to report to the club's pre-season training camp in the Algarve on time. The 27-year-old Swedish international was due to return on July 12 after an extended break. Varandas, speaking to Lusa news agency, stated the situation will be resolved "with the closing of the market, a heavy fine, and an apology to the group." He emphasized that Sporting is calm and will not accept less than fair market value for the player, who has three years remaining on his contract and has been linked with a move to Arsenal. Varandas warned that attempts to pressure the club into facilitating a transfer are counterproductive, declaring "No one is above the club's interests." Gyokeres has been prolific for Sporting, scoring 97 goals in 102 matches since joining from Coventry City in 2023. He scored 54 goals last season and helped the club win the Primeira Liga title in both the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons. Sporting's next match is a friendly against Celtic on Wednesday.
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Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas has confirmed that striker Viktor Gyökeres will face disciplinary action, including a heavy fine and a required apology to the team, for failing to report for pre-season training on time. The 26-year-old Swedish forward was expected to join the club's training camp in the Algarve on July 12. Gyökeres, who has been strongly linked with a transfer to Arsenal, missed the training session, prompting a firm response from Sporting's management. Varandas stated the situation would be resolved "with the closing of the market, a heavy fine, and an apology to the group." Despite transfer speculation, Varandas emphasized Sporting will not accept below-market offers for Gyökeres, who has three years remaining on his contract. He warned interested clubs, "If they don't want to pay fair market value... we are very comfortable with that for the next three years." Varandas also criticized tactics used to force a transfer, declaring those behind them "completely wrong" and complicating any potential exit, stressing that "no one is above the club's interests." Since joining from Coventry City in 2023, Gyökeres has scored 97 goals in 102 appearances and was instrumental in Sporting winning consecutive Primeira Liga titles in 2023-24 and 2024-25, including 54 goals last season. Sporting are scheduled to play a pre-season friendly against Celtic at Estádio Algarve on Wednesday.
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Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer confirmed that Jamal Musiala's recent injury setback is a significant disappointment for the player and the club. Musiala, who had just returned from a previous injury, now faces another extended period out of action. Hainer stated that Bayern will provide Musiala with full support during his recovery. Regarding the club's transfer plans for the summer window, Hainer emphasized that this injury will not cause them to deviate from their pre-established strategy. He stated that the sporting management has clear goals for strengthening the squad and that Bayern Munich is resolutely following these plans. Hainer did not reveal any specific details about potential transfer targets.
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Barcelona appears to have abandoned efforts to sign an unnamed Premier League winger due to his €82 million valuation, shifting focus to a Manchester United outcast now deemed a priority target. The club received a boost when Turkish giants withdrew from the race for this same target. Meanwhile, PSG has identified a 22-year-old Barcelona star as manager Luis Enrique's top transfer objective. In squad analysis, Barcelona is evaluating Marcus Rashford versus Luis Díaz as potential options, while details emerged about Athletic Club's Nico Williams rejecting Barcelona's approach. The club also secured a new €10 million per-year sponsorship agreement, strengthening financial operations. Youth development features prominently, with three La Masia prospects likely to receive first-team opportunities following a midfielder's impending departure. Eight academy talents will join Hansi Flick's pre-season tour, including three highlighted as players to watch during preparations. Match coverage includes a 3-0 victory over Athletic Club, with standout performances from Pedri (rated 8.5) and Lewandowski (9). Tactical previews suggested a 4-2-3-1 formation featuring Christensen and Casado for that fixture. Post-match analysis provided three takeaways from the Athletic win and three talking points from Barcelona's earlier 2-3 loss to Villarreal. Finally, Barcelona's prospective signing of goalkeeper Joan García is analyzed through five key attributes that make him an ideal fit for the club's requirements.
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Arsenal's lack of a consistently fit and prolific center-forward last season is seen as a key reason they finished second in the Premier League, unable to challenge champions Liverpool. This marked their third consecutive runners-up finish, prompting mockery from Liverpool fans towards manager Mikel Arteta. While the Gunners have strikers Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, neither is considered a reliable source of 20+ goals per season and both are injury-prone, necessitating a new striker signing this summer. One primary target, Benjamin Šeško of RB Leipzig, is reportedly attracting interest from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal. Al-Hilal, having been rejected twice by Victor Osimhen and also considering Crystal Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta, are now pursuing the 22-year-old Slovenian striker. Šeško is highly rated, having scored 10+ Bundesliga goals in each of his last three seasons with Leipzig, following a carefully managed career path through Red Bull Salzburg and a loan at FC Liefering. Despite Al-Hilal's interest and financial capability (noting Šeško's contract runs until 2029), the article argues that Šeško's logical next career step should be a move to a top European club. Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Real Madrid have all been linked with him, and testing himself at the highest level in Europe is presented as preferable to moving to Saudi Arabia, despite Al-Hilal's respectable Club World Cup performance (drawing with Real Madrid and knocking out Manchester City before losing to Fluminense). Arsenal's pursuit of other striker options faces challenges. Talks to sign Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting Lisbon have reportedly stalled, endangering the deal. Alternative targets include Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins (though he is Villa's only striker) and Newcastle's Alexander Isak (who would be expensive). Juventus striker Dušan Vlahović is also mentioned as a potential fit, but Arsenal would face competition from Manchester United for his signature.
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FC Barcelona is set to receive a significant financial boost from an unexpected sponsorship deal with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). According to reports cited by SPORT, the club has agreed to a three-year collaboration with the DRC's Ministry of Sports and Tourism. As part of the deal, Barcelona will display the DRC's tourism promotion logo, 'DRC, the heart of Africa', on the sleeve of their first-team shirt. This agreement is reportedly worth €10 million per season, totaling €30 million. This funding is expected to assist Barcelona in making further signings during the summer transfer window and beyond. The club has already signed goalkeeper Joan Garcia from Espanyol for €25 million, a move potentially signaling the end of Marc-Andre ter Stegen's tenure as he is reportedly deemed surplus to requirements by manager Hansi Flick. Barcelona had also pursued Athletic Club winger Nico Williams, reportedly agreeing personal terms. However, Williams unexpectedly signed a long-term contract extension with Athletic Club until 2035, significantly increasing his release clause beyond €90 million. This development forced Barcelona to look at alternatives like Liverpool's Luis Diaz or Manchester United's Marcus Rashford, who would also be expensive. The €30 million injection from the DRC deal, if finalized following Minister Didier Budumbu's visit to Barcelona, will help finance these potential transfers. Beyond the sponsorship, Barcelona has also reportedly agreed to support schools and launch humanitarian projects in the DRC through its Barca Foundation.
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A Bleacher Report analysis by Kristopher Knox warns that DeAndre Hopkins may not meet expectations as Baltimore's long-sought No. 1 receiver. Knox argues the 33-year-old possession receiver—coming off a 610-yard season—joins a run-heavy offense and could disappoint those expecting transformational impact or fantasy relevance, potentially becoming a bust as Lamar Jackson's fourth or fifth target. Counterarguments highlight Hopkins' proven skills and motivation. Despite his age, the three-time All-Pro with seven 1,000-yard seasons showcased enduring speed and contested-catch ability during OTAs, including a viral high-point reception from Jackson. His Super Bowl loss with Kansas City fuels his drive to win a Lombardi Trophy with the playoff-contending Ravens. Hopkins' skill set aligns strategically with Baltimore's offense. Offensive coordinator Todd Monken can deploy him flexibly—particularly in slot alignments where he logged 118 snaps last season—leveraging his physicality against favorable matchups. The Ravens' existing tight-end usage and Jackson's growth as a passer further optimize Hopkins' role without demanding WR1 volume. Reduced pressure aids Hopkins' integration, as young playmakers Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and Isaiah Likely handle primary creation duties. This environment allows Hopkins to pursue championship validation for his Hall of Fame résumé while helping Baltimore overcome past playoff shortcomings and fulfill Jackson's championship aspirations.
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Everton are actively preparing for their upcoming stadium move and strengthening their squad with new signings and contract extensions. The club has secured defender Jarrad Branthwaite on a new five-year deal and completed the £27.5 million transfer of Thierno Barry, who joins recent acquisition Carlos Alcaraz at Merseyside. Everton's pursuit of free agent left-back Nicolas Tagliafico appears to have stalled following reports from Spain. The 32-year-old World Cup winner, who contributed to eight goals for Lyon last season and reached the Europa League semi-finals, rejected a move to La Liga's Real Oviedo due to salary demands and his desire to join a club competing in European tournaments, preferably the Champions League. This development significantly diminishes Everton's chances of signing Tagliafico, as the club will only participate in domestic competitions next season. While a lucrative financial offer could theoretically change the Argentine's stance, Everton must now explore alternative defensive reinforcements to compete with and cover first-choice left-back Vitaliy Mykolenko, who made 35 Premier League appearances last season but remains the squad's only natural player in that position.
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Everton's fortunes have significantly improved since the Friedkin Group completed their takeover in December, rescuing the club from financial turmoil left by former owner Farhad Moshiri. Rapid changes have been implemented under manager David Moyes, with this summer's transfer window marking the Friedkins' first real opportunity to reshape the squad after a cautious January approach. Despite Moyes receiving backing in the market—including the recent signing of Thierno Barry—the takeover nearly unfolded differently. American businessman John Textor, who currently faces UEFA complications due to joint ownership of Crystal Palace and Lyon, believed he had secured Everton last year. Textor publicly criticized Moshiri for misleading him during negotiations, claiming he was instructed to give a Sky News interview under the false pretense that his ownership was guaranteed. Textor revealed that conflicting legal teams working independently created confusion at the final stage of the deal. His frustration has led to consequences, as he has now blocked Everton from signing Lyon players like Ernest Nuamah. However, with the Friedkins firmly in control, Everton fans are relieved to close this chapter and optimistic about the club's upward trajectory.
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Everton's pursuit of a new winger is intensifying as July approaches, marking the start of a new PSR (Profit and Sustainability Rules) transfer window and an exciting phase for the club. Manager David Moyes, who has made only one signing since his return at the start of the year, is prioritizing attacking additions this summer, particularly with Dominic Calvert-Lewin expected to depart. Operating in the transfer market is proving extremely difficult and competitive, as clubs across England seek major upgrades. Everton faces challenges battling Premier League rivals for targets and competing against sides that can offer European football. Despite these struggles, a development has emerged involving winger Timothy Weah. Everton holds a long-standing interest in the Juventus player, who is currently participating in the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. According to The Guardian, Weah has rejected a potential move to Nottingham Forest, even though a deal was agreed between Juventus and Forest. This agreement led to Weah being left out of Juventus' squad on Thursday, but the player turned down the opportunity to join Forest. Following Weah's rejection of Nottingham Forest, Bournemouth, Everton, and Leeds United are understood to be interested in signing him. Everton is now specifically battling Tottenham Hotspur for Weah's signature, with several Premier League clubs considering a move. This situation raises concerns for Everton about their ability to secure the American forward. These concerns are amplified because it is only one month into the transfer window, and Everton has already missed out on target Liam Delap while facing stern competition for other players.
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Fiorentina will play a friendly match against Manchester United at Old Trafford on August 9, as confirmed by the Premier League club. This game provides an opportunity for former Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea, who has revitalized his career in Italy with Fiorentina, to salute the Old Trafford fans. Separately, Roma will play a friendly match against Everton on Saturday, August 9, to open Everton's new Hill Dickinson Stadium. This date has now been confirmed. Furthermore, the event has been expanded; following the main friendly, there will be an additional match featuring the Legends teams of Roma and Everton. Players Vincent Candela and Phil Jagielka have already been confirmed for the Legends match. Roma and Everton share common ownership under the Friedkin family.
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Hekari Womens FC advanced to their second consecutive OFC Women’s Champions League final with a 6-1 victory over Ba Women FC in the first semi-final held at Stade Pater in Papeete. Despite dominating possession and build-up play from the start, Hekari lacked finishing quality in the first half, though they delivered a clinical performance after halftime. Hekari took an early lead in the 5th minute when Ba goalkeeper Mereseni Waqali's error allowed Nenny Elipas to score into an empty net. Hekari missed several chances to extend their lead, with Michaelyne Butubu and Romona Padio failing to convert. Ba equalized just before halftime (44') when captain Luisa Tamanitoakula converted a penalty won after a mistake by Hekari goalkeeper Gloria Laeli. Waqali redeemed herself slightly with two crucial saves near halftime. Level at 1-1 at the break, Hekari dominated the second half. Marie Kaipu restored their lead in the 52nd minute, beating Waqali at the near post. Just two minutes later, Kaipu assisted Elipas for her second goal. Kaipu set up Elipas again in the 58th minute to complete her hat-trick. Kaipu scored her second goal (and seventh of the tournament) with a header in the 69th minute after the ball rebounded off the crossbar. Phylis Pala completed the scoring from the penalty spot five minutes before fulltime. The final score was Ba Women FC 1 (Tamanitoakula 44' pen) to Hekari Womens FC 6 (Elipas 5', 54', 58'; Kaipu 52', 69'; Pala 85').
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