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TOP‘I don’t want to leave’… 23-year-old Barcelona player talks about his future, more competition, and the Nico Williams operation
FC Barcelona's summer transfer window has focused on internal adjustments rather than major signings. The club prioritized player renewals and exits, securing extensions for Wojciech Szczesny and finalizing Lamine Yamal's renewal. Departures like Pablo Torre and Ansu Fati generated income and freed up significant funds. Amidst exit discussions, 23-year-old left-back Gerard Martin's future has been a topic. Despite Alejandro Balde being the undisputed starter, Martin expressed clear motivations in an interview. He stated his collective goal is to "win everything" and his personal aim is to "always improve on last season and keep growing." He firmly denied wanting to leave, saying, "I'm really happy here at Barça, and I don't want to leave," and emphasized his hope for the coach and club's faith in him. Martin also addressed potential squad competition calmly, stating, "No, I'm calm... competition is good—it helps everyone improve." He commented positively on new signing Joan Garcia, calling him a "great signing" who was "good and happy." Regarding the failed move for Nico Williams, Martin admitted limited knowledge, simply noting, "It seemed like he was going to come, but in the end, he didn't." Martin enters the new season as an established Barcelona player, benefiting from coach Hansi Flick already knowing him from the previous campaign.
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TOPTrevor Lawrence on Feeling the Pressure Heading into 2025
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence acknowledges the significant pressure he faces entering his fifth NFL season, heightened by his status as the 2021 first overall draft pick and the most important player on the offense. He recognizes that while he tries to treat every season the same, his career and the Jaguars' performance have been inconsistent so far, marked by significant organizational change including having his third different head coach. Despite this turnover, Lawrence expresses strong confidence in the current situation under new head coach Liam Coen and his staff. He specifically praises the offensive system Coen brings, which is rooted in the schemes popularized by Sean McVay and Kyle Shanahan. Lawrence believes this "tried and true" system, also run successfully by teams like the Minnesota Vikings, is excellent for quarterbacks and that the Jaguars have made great offensive changes this offseason. Lawrence emphasizes that entering his fifth year represents a critical "now or never" moment in his career. He states it's time to start winning consistently and transform the Jaguars into a team seriously competing for the playoffs and Super Bowls, rather than being overlooked. He feels he is entering his prime years and needs to elevate his performance, viewing the team's offseason moves as a strong foundation for this push.
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Report – Veteran Defender Keen To Stay At Inter Milan Amid Premier League Interest
Francesco Acerbi intends to remain at Inter Milan for the final year of his contract, despite the club deciding not to offer him a new deal due to his age (37), even though he has been in impressive form. Inter Milan will not pay a €500,000 termination fee to release Acerbi this summer and plan to keep the veteran defender for the upcoming season. Acerbi himself is content to stay at San Siro for another year. Manager Simone Inzaghi, who is moving to Al-Hilal, has decided against signing Acerbi for the Saudi club. Furthermore, while there has been some interest from the Premier League, it reportedly comes only from newly promoted Sunderland and not a top club, and Acerbi has no interest in leaving Italy.
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Ravens rookie now fully tangled in increasingly ugly NFL Draft pick mess
The NFL is experiencing a shift in contract negotiations, with second-round rookies now seeking fully guaranteed deals—previously reserved for first-round picks. Cleveland Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger and Houston Texans wide receiver Jayden Higgins have already secured such contracts, breaking this barrier. Other unsigned second-round selections face training camp deadlines to finalize agreements, as they cannot participate without contracts. This trend intensified when Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Tre Harris (55th overall pick) held out of camp to demand guaranteed money, signaling potential challenges for teams negotiating with remaining unsigned players. Baltimore Ravens edge defender Mike Green (59th pick) is among those without a deal as training camp approaches. Despite possessing first-round talent—evidenced by his nation-leading 17 sacks and 23 tackles for loss at Marshall—Green's contract talks are complicated by off-field issues. He faces two pending sexual assault charges, which led to his dismissal from Virginia's football program in 2022 and caused his draft slide. Although the Ravens conducted thorough investigations and selected him based on confidence in his character, these allegations create unique negotiation hurdles. With Ravens rookies reporting July 15, Green risks missing critical camp time if unsigned. Green's absence would detrimentally impact both his adjustment to the NFL and the Ravens' defensive plans. The team struggled with inconsistent and non-explosive pass rushes in 2024, and Green's skill set directly addresses these weaknesses. While Baltimore has depth in pass rushers, his participation in camp is vital for integration. The precedent set by Schwesinger, Higgins, and Harris's demands increases pressure on the Ravens to resolve negotiations before camp begins, balancing talent evaluation against off-field concerns.
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Steelers and 49ers mock trade swaps receivers in potential NFL stunner
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Jauan Jennings' tenure with the San Francisco 49ers appears uncertain, potentially making him available for trade. The Pittsburgh Steelers are viewed as a likely suitor, actively seeking a significant upgrade at wide receiver to bolster their offensive weapons. The Steelers' recent acquisition strategy—exemplified by trading for Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith before extending Smith's contract with a raise—could serve as a model for pursuing Jennings. Pittsburgh has sufficient salary cap space to absorb Jennings' $7.5 million contract this season, considering it excellent value for a versatile and physical receiver. General Manager Omar Khan is expected to aggressively pursue Jennings if he hits the trade market. In a proposed mock trade, the Steelers would acquire Jennings and likely sign him to a short-term extension with a moderate pay increase. In return, the 49ers would receive speedy receiver Calvin Austin III, who has shown potential but lacks consistent production. Austin could thrive in San Francisco's creative offense, particularly as temporary depth while Brandon Aiyuk recovers from injury. The deal would also involve a mid-round draft pick swap to balance value. Jennings is coming off a breakout 2024 season with 77 receptions for 975 yards and six touchdowns, heightening his value. The Steelers covet his playing style, while the 49ers gain a developmental prospect in Austin. Both teams could benefit from this scenario, creating a potential win-win outcome.
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Report: Bayern Munich legend Thomas Müller could be heading to Austria
Thomas Müller, the German football legend with a highly decorated career at Bayern Munich and the German national team, faces uncertainty about his next club after retiring internationally and leaving Bayern. While a move to Major League Soccer (MLS), specifically LAFC, has been a long-standing rumor, reports indicate financial hurdles are complicating that potential transfer. New reports from meinbezirk.at suggest Müller is now considering an alternative, more unorthodox move to Austrian club Rapid Vienna. Rapid Vienna is presented as a historic club with a large fan base and the significant advantage of being located only four hours from Munich. The article suggests that at this stage in his career, Müller might prefer the familiarity and comfort of a move to Vienna over relocating halfway across the world to Los Angeles, leaving him with solid options to consider.
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Report – Inter Milan Could Terminate Italy Veteran’s Contract By Paying Out Clause
Inter Milan is reportedly considering terminating veteran defender Francesco Acerbi's contract by activating a specific clause. According to Libero (via FCInter1908), the club could pay Acerbi €500,000 to end his deal early. Acerbi, 37, joined Inter from Lazio in the summer of 2022 and has been a key player in their defense for the past three seasons. However, the club is now looking towards the future and wants to build around younger players, specifically targeting teenage defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma. This shift in strategy suggests Acerbi may no longer fit their plans. Although his contract runs until the end of June 2025, Inter possesses an option to terminate it early. Libero reports that a clause exists in Acerbi's contract stating that if Inter pays him €500,000, his contract will be ended. Fan comments reflect debate on the potential move. Some argue Inter needs experienced defenders like Acerbi or Stefan de Vrij unless they sign at least two new defenders, emphasizing the need for depth in a back-three system (currently only Bastoni and Pavard seen as stable). Others contend the club must prioritize youth and a long-term project over sentimentality, citing potential fatigue issues with older players later in the season. Counterpoints note Acerbi's recent fitness and ability to play full matches, suggesting veterans can still contribute during a squad revamp.
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In new ESPN ranking, George Kittle again steps in front of Travis Kelce
ESPN released its rankings of the top 10 NFL tight ends for 2024, based on input from league executives, coaches, and scouts. The list marks a significant shift, ending the long-standing debate between George Kittle and Travis Kelce for the top spot, and features new names leading the pack. Las Vegas Raiders rookie Brock Bowers claimed the number one position, followed by George Kittle at number two, Detroit Lions' Sam LaPorta at three, and Arizona Cardinals' Trey McBride at four. Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce, the back-to-back tight end king ranked number one last year, fell to fifth place. Evaluators attributed Kelce's drop in the rankings to signs of physical decline observed during the 2024 season, primarily due to his age (he turns 36 in October) after nearly 200 games over 12 years. Several noted he played heavier last season, which he has addressed by slimming down this offseason in preparation for what might be his final year. While a Chiefs source downplayed the impact of his weight on his play, the lack of explosive plays was identified as a problem. His average of 8.5 yards per catch was a career low by a significant margin. One veteran evaluator stated Kelce showed clear signs of physical decline and doesn't get open like he used to, though he remains a concern due to his intelligence and strong connection with his quarterback. Despite the decline, Kelce remained dangerous in the red zone, converting 26 targets into 19 catches for 106 yards and three touchdowns. He also still led the Chiefs in total targets (133) last season.
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Liverpool retire No 20 shirt in honour of Diogo Jota after forward’s death
Liverpool Football Club has permanently retired the number 20 shirt across all its teams (men's, women's, and academy levels) in honour of Diogo Jota. This decision follows the tragic death of the 28-year-old Portugal international and his brother, André Silva, in a car crash in north-western Spain last week. This tribute marks the first time Liverpool has retired a shirt number in its history, reflecting Jota's immense value to the club as both a player and a person. The announcement was deliberately made at 20:20 BST on Friday, responding to calls from Liverpool fans. The club made the decision after consulting with Jota's wife, Rute Cardoso, and his parents, Isabel and Joaquim. His family travelled to Merseyside on Friday to witness the tributes left outside Anfield and were accompanied to the stadium by the entire Liverpool squad in their first public appearance since the accident. Jota's death occurred just 11 days after his marriage to his long-term partner, leaving behind three young children. He and his brother were driving to Santander to catch a ferry back to England for pre-season training, having been advised against flying due to a recent lung procedure. Liverpool will play their first game since the accident at Preston on Sunday. Both clubs will pay tribute, including playing Liverpool's anthem "You'll Never Walk Alone" before kick-off, observing a minute's silence, and players wearing black armbands.
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Kevin Clark: Lamar Jackson Faces Super Bowl Pressure
Paul Finebaum expresses enthusiasm for the upcoming "Arch-mania" surrounding quarterback Arch Manning. There is speculation that new Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer "might have to win it all" to secure his long-term position with the Crimson Tide. A question is raised about whether quarterback Baker Mayfield provides the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with sufficient talent to be competitive contenders within the NFC. Dennis criticizes Colorado head coach Deion Sanders, labeling him "hypocritical" in relation to comments Sanders made about the NFL salary cap. The Phoenix Suns' decision to offer a long-term contract extension to star player Devin Booker is examined. Paul Finebaum states that Deion Sanders has already proven himself successful and therefore doesn't have anything left to prove as a coach. Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott is discussed in terms of potentially having a "monster year" in the upcoming season.
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Pass Defense Killed The Bucs Example No. 3,285
The article argues that forcing punts via three-and-out defensive stands is a critical defensive strategy, as it acts as a turnover and preserves the defense by limiting snaps. However, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were terrible at this in 2024, ranking 28th in the NFL (fifth-worst) by forcing three-and-outs only 28% of the time. This failure is attributed primarily to the team's poor pass defense. The author expresses disbelief that since head coach Todd Bowles arrived in 2019, his pass defense has ranked in the 20s (specifically 29th the last two years) five out of six times, despite Bowles' defensive background and Super Bowl success. The author calls for Bowles to make necessary changes to fix this persistent weakness. The article questions whether the problem is Bowles' defensive adjustments or the organization's personnel decisions. It points out that the Bucs have prioritized rebuilding the offense and defensive line for years, neglecting safety, inside linebacker (ILB), and backup cornerback positions. Even after drafting a defensive back in the first round this year, ILBs were still ignored. The author criticizes the decision to start safety Jordan Whitehead in 2024, citing his generally low performance value historically, including his best recent years being with the Jets. It suggests the team unrealistically hoped star safety Antoine Winfield Jr. ("Clark Kent Winfield") could compensate, but he played injured all year. Furthermore, the article highlights concerns about the coverage abilities of the linebackers expected to protect the middle of the field in 2024, noting that Lavonte David and Anthony Walker ranked in the bottom tier for coverage among linebackers with at least 350 snaps.
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Jamie Cassidy, the Liverpool starlet turned drugs conspirator: ‘In jail, some say lads want to be a footballer or a dealer. I’ve been both’ - The Athletic
Jamie Cassidy realized his freedom was ending on October 17, 2020, the same day Virgil van Dijk suffered a knee injury similar to the one that ended Cassidy's own promising football career decades earlier. Cassidy, a former Liverpool FA Youth Cup winner who trained with England's Euro 96 squad, was watching the Merseyside derby at home when he received a distressed call from his niece. She informed him that his older brother, Jonathan, had been arrested on drug charges at Manchester Airport after returning from Dubai, where he had been hiding. Cassidy knew the situation was dire when his solicitor showed him a police report the following Monday. French investigators had cracked the EncroChat messaging service used by the brothers, whose handles "WhiskeyWasp" (Jonathan) and "NuclearDog" (Jamie) were prominent in the files. He was arrested at his home on November 5th, handcuffed on his couch by a large police team. During interrogation in Ashton-under-Lyne, Cassidy felt overwhelmed by the evidence against him, realizing it could lead to a lengthy prison sentence. He was remanded and transported past his family home near the M57 motorway. Seeing it, he felt intense guilt knowing his family inside would be distraught, and he anticipated being away for 5-10 years or more. Cassidy was sent to the Victorian-era HMP Liverpool in Walton. Upon arrival, he was strip-searched, forced to squat over a mirror, and issued drab prison uniforms ("greys"), white T-shirts, and an old orange blanket nicknamed "Itchy and Scratchy" by inmates. This occurred during a severe COVID-19 lockdown. The virus spread rapidly in prison, leading to strict isolation. Cassidy was confined to a tiny cell 24 hours a day for the first six weeks, unable to shower. Conditions remained harsh for the first 18 months: visits were banned, there was no gym or yard access, cells lacked bedsheets or pillows, had no windows, and temperatures dropped drastically at night with cold sea winds.
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The Caleb Williams Crossroads: Why Fantasy Managers Are Cooling on the Bears QB
Fantasy football managers' enthusiasm for Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams has diminished throughout the summer as they reassess his rookie struggles and uncertain prospects. Early optimism about a Year 2 breakout has waned, reflected in a sharp decline in his acquisition rate in user trades—dropping from 62.4% in May to 46.1% recently. Williams' rookie season proved disappointing despite favorable expectations, averaging only 15.3 fantasy points per game. While he showcased dual-threat potential—becoming just the fourth rookie in 20 years with 3,500+ passing yards (3,541) and 450+ rushing yards (489)—his efficiency metrics were concerning. He ranked 35th in EPA (-69.4) and had a 59.6 passer rating on deep throws, while absorbing a league-high 68 sacks and 260 pressures. Coaching instability significantly hampered his development. Offensive coordinator Shane Waldron was fired after nine games amid reported friction with Williams, and head coach Matt Eberflus was dismissed in November. These midseason changes compounded challenges from a struggling offensive line. Despite these issues, Williams demonstrated notable improvement late in the season. His completion rate under pressure rose to 47.7% (from 39% early on), and he threw just one interception in his final seven games. He also flashed elite potential with five 20+ fantasy-point performances, including a 26.9-point game in Week 12 and a four-touchdown showing in Week 6. From Week 11 onward, he ranked as a top-10 fantasy QB, throwing 11 touchdowns against one interception. Encouraging traits included exceptional ball security (1.1% interception rate on 562 attempts) and late-season growth, suggesting his struggles were situational rather than talent-based. This progression offers hope that a breakout remains possible despite the rocky start.
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Chelsea were hugely attracted to Jamie Gittens for two reasons as Enzo Maresca is convinced by him
Chelsea secured the signing of 20-year-old winger Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund in July, with club officials described as "desperate" to finalize the transfer. However, Gittens is ineligible to make his debut in the ongoing Club World Cup due to his prior participation in the group stages for Dortmund, meaning his first appearance for Chelsea will be delayed until the 2025/26 season. This contrasts with fellow summer signings Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, who have already debuted. Chelsea considers Gittens among Europe’s elite under-21 wingers, valuing both his character and significant first-team experience at a young age. Head coach Enzo Maresca is confident the left-winger will thrive in his tactical system, adding depth to Chelsea’s attack with his senior-level expertise. Despite reported interest from Bayern Munich, Gittens chose a return to England. Although Gittens previously spent time in youth academies at Manchester City, Reading, and Chelsea, this move marks his first opportunity for Premier League football. He may benefit from reuniting with former England youth teammates. Known for his dribbling prowess, Gittens ranks second only to Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal (6.5) in successful dribbles per 90 minutes (5.31) among U-21 players in Europe's top leagues, joining Chelsea’s existing dribblers like Pedro Neto and Cole Palmer.
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‘New season, new hair’ - Barcelona ace Robert Lewandowski follows in Gavi’s footsteps with new look
Robert Lewandowski has debuted a new blonde hairstyle ahead of Barcelona's pre-season, inspired by teammate Gavi who also changed his hair color over the summer. Lewandowski revealed his new look on Instagram with the caption: "New season, new hair, same goals." Alongside his hair transformation, Lewandowski has been rigorously training during the off-season. He shared several social media videos showcasing his workout regime, appearing in excellent physical condition for the upcoming campaign. Barcelona anticipates another high-scoring season from their veteran striker, following his stellar performances last season which contributed to the team winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup under manager Hansi Flick. This season could potentially be Lewandowski's final one with Barcelona, as his current contract expires in 2026.
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Bale backs Alonso to make 'big changes' at Madrid
Former Real Madrid star Gareth Bale expressed strong confidence in new head coach Xabi Alonso's ability to transform the team, stating Alonso won't hesitate to drop underperforming players. Alonso returns to Madrid after leaving Bayer Leverkusen, tasked with restoring trophy success following a silverware-free season under Carlo Ancelotti. Bale, speaking to ESPN FC TV, predicted Alonso could effectively integrate stars like Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior into a cohesive unit. He highlighted Alonso's successful Leverkusen tenure, noting Madrid's superior squad quality and larger transfer budget should facilitate "big changes." Bale emphasized players' respect for Alonso and expectation they'll adapt to his system or face exclusion. Real Madrid's season concluded with a 4-0 Club World Cup semifinal loss to Paris Saint-Germain, intensifying scrutiny on Mbappé. Despite finishing as LaLiga's top scorer with 31 goals, Madrid won no trophies—while PSG claimed the Champions League and reached the Club World Cup final without him. Bale acknowledged the paradox: Mbappé delivered individually but couldn't prevent collective failure at a club where "winning everything" is mandatory. Regarding Mbappé's challenge, Bale refrained from labeling his season poor due to strong statistics but noted heightened expectations. He stressed Alonso's critical role in optimizing Mbappé's pressing efficiency and energy management while maximizing his attacking impact. The PSG defeat marked Luka Modrić's final Madrid appearance before joining AC Milan. Bale, his former teammate at Tottenham and Madrid, lauded the 39-year-old as an "incredible footballer" who defied physical expectations and improved like "fine wine" with age. He suggested Modrić could still play but understood Madrid's shift toward younger talents. Bale, who won the 2013-14 Champions League alongside Alonso as players, expressed hope that Alonso would replicate such success as coach, leveraging their shared history and Madrid's resources.
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Meet Ayden Heaven and his agent mum, Lisa – ‘I had a lot of setbacks, but it helped me as a person to this day’
Ayden Heaven and his mother, Lisa, reflected on his rapid ascent at Manchester United, specifically recalling his Premier League debut against Arsenal on March 9. This came just over a month after he left Arsenal, where he had made only one senior appearance. Heaven expressed confidence about facing his former Arsenal teammates, stating he knew their attributes well from daily training sessions. He described the experience as surreal and one of his best moments, highlighting his calm demeanor during the match. In contrast, Lisa was highly nervous while watching from the stands at Old Trafford with 11 colleagues and clients from her Essex beauty salon. She noted their long-term support, sharing how they witnessed her juggle work and his football commitments, including driving to tournaments. Initially, she doubted he would play, deeming it premature for a second-year scholar, but was stunned when he warmed up extensively and came on. Heaven, aged 18, entered the game at half-time, replacing the injured Leny Yoro. His performance was praised as accomplished, especially given his youth and the fact that this was only his third senior appearance—he had played briefly for Arsenal in the League Cup and for United in an FA Cup tie the previous week. When asked if performing in front of his mother and her friends added pressure, Heaven laughed it off, pointing out the 75,000-strong crowd. Lisa countered by sharing her own past anxiety during athletic events when her father watched, but Heaven indicated he didn't feel similarly pressured. The pair share a strong, loving bond, reinforced by Lisa's role as his FIFA-licensed agent. She explained that she took on this responsibility after recognizing his football obsession from age three, feeling she alone could ensure he reached his full potential. She emphasized her deep understanding of his dedication and dissatisfaction with other agents' pitches, who failed to grasp his challenges or career pathway.
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Analyst Delivers Criticizing Rant Regarding Real Madrid Pair Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe
Following Real Madrid's heavy 4-0 defeat to PSG in the Club World Cup, the media has directed significant criticism towards forwards Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé. Analyst Raúl Varela, speaking on Radio Marca, launched a strong critique of both players' performances in the PSG match and referenced past issues, particularly with Vinicius. Varela specifically pointed out Vinicius Jr.'s perceived lack of defensive effort, quoting the player as having said, "I've gone five years at Madrid without running." The criticism stems from the contrast between the players' roles under previous manager Carlo Ancelotti, where they were reportedly not required to do much defensive work, and the demands of new manager Xabi Alonso's different system. Although this loss occurred in Alonso's sixth game in charge (sparing him much media negativity), and it was Mbappé's first start after recovering from illness, Varela expressed dissatisfaction with both players. The article notes that both players have only had a short time (six games) under Alonso, suggesting there is still time for them to adapt if required by the new manager's tactics.
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Chiefs' Steve Spagnuolo in crosshairs of Bills, Ravens, and Eagles fans after Joe Burrow comment captured in 'Quarterback' goes viral
Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo complimented Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow during their Week 2 (2024 season) matchup, captured by microphones for the Netflix series "Quarterback." After Kansas City's 26-25 victory, Spagnuolo told Burrow, "Other than our guy, you're the best in the business," adding, "I'm not saying that 'cuz you're standing here." This statement gives Burrow significant praise above other top quarterbacks. Spagnuolo's comment has drawn attention, particularly from fans of the Buffalo Bills, Baltimore Ravens, and Philadelphia Eagles. These fans are likely to dispute the remark, as their respective quarterbacks – Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, and Jalen Hurts – are also frequently discussed among the NFL's elite players. The compliment carries weight due to Spagnuolo's respected status as one of the NFL's top coaches. It also highlights the compelling rivalry between Burrow and Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, noting that Burrow currently holds a 3-2 head-to-head record against Kansas City. While the Chiefs and Bengals are not scheduled to play each other again in the regular season until 2027, the possibility remains that the two star quarterbacks could face off sooner if their teams meet in the playoffs.
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Arsenal have wonderkid to unleash as Declan Rice's eight-word comment speaks volumes
Arsenal is preparing to potentially unleash Max Dowman, described as "the best 15-year-old in the country," after he began training with the senior team ahead of the 2025/26 season. He has been photographed participating in first-team sessions as the club gears up for domestic and European campaigns. Dowman, a product of Arsenal's academy, has earned caps for England at Under-16 and Under-17 levels. He made history earlier this year by becoming the youngest player to feature in Premier League 2, leading manager Mikel Arteta to include him in a warm-weather training camp in Dubai. Capable of playing in advanced midfield or wide positions, Dowman received high praise from teammate Declan Rice. Rice, speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, acknowledged Dowman's talent but cautioned about the challenges ahead, stating, "At 15, there is such a long way to go... you need to be hungry, keep working and keep pushing." Rice emphasized his mentorship role, revealing he often speaks with Dowman and admires his family support, calling him "unreal." Rice is also guiding other academy graduates, Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly, drawing from his own experiences with older players. Dowman recently participated in the 2025 UEFA European Under-17 Championship and gained attention last September when, at age 14, he scored for Arsenal's Under-19s in a UEFA Youth League match against Atalanta, becoming the youngest goalscorer in the competition's history.
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Florentino Perez dealt setback to Real Madrid ownership plans
Real Madrid President Florentino Perez publicly acknowledged in November that the club must change and adapt to defend its interests, specifically signaling a potential change to its long-standing member-owned (socio) model during the club's general assembly. The club, owned by its members since its founding 122 years ago and built into a powerhouse by Santiago Bernabéu, has historically elected presidents via member vote, though Perez has largely run unopposed in recent decades. Perez stated the club would propose a corporate reorganization to secure its future, protect against threats, and ensure members remain the true owners of the club and its financial assets. Previous reports indicated he planned to convert members into shareholders, with a structure ensuring members retained 51% ownership. Shares would be non-transferable except to family, while allowing the club to attract foreign investment. However, legal consultancy Clifford Chance, advising Perez on the proposal, has reportedly advised against this plan. Their report, referenced by Sport via El Confidencial, warns that allocating shares to the Real Madrid Foundation would violate current legislation. The alternative suggested is converting the club into a private company, similar to other clubs. Such a conversion could potentially remove control from the members. Crucially, any change to the ownership model requires approval by a majority vote of the club's members.
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AC MILAN AND PUMA GOLF UNVEIL SPORT-STYLE CAPSULE BRINGING ROSSONERI ELEGANCE TO THE FAIRWAY
AC Milan and PUMA Golf have launched a limited-edition capsule collection that merges football and golf, combining performance with style while honoring AC Milan's heritage through modern golfwear. The collection reflects the club's legacy of bridging diverse cultural and sporting realms since its 1899 founding as a football and cricket club. The apparel and footwear line features tonal hues and subtle club details, blending refined design with PUMA Golf's functionality. Key items include the Golf Club T-shirt and Polo in White Glow or Dark Sage, the Classic G Golf Shoe with AC Milan style references, and elevated essentials like the Quarter-Zip, Golf Club Hoodie, and Golf Club Pant—all designed for versatility both on and off the course. AC Milan player and PUMA ambassador Christian Pulisic, a golf enthusiast, fronts the campaign through a dedicated photoshoot and video. Pulisic emphasized the personal significance of uniting his football and golf passions, noting that the collection embodies AC Milan's unique embrace of creativity across sports, fashion, and culture. The launch coincides with the introduction of AC Milan's Clubhouse platform, marking a milestone in the club's brand evolution. This initiative positions AC Milan as a cultural force beyond sport, creating a global space for storytelling and collaboration across fashion, design, music, and the arts—reflecting the diverse interests of its worldwide fanbase. The full collection is now available at AC Milan Official Stores (excluding Malpensa T1), store.acmilan.com, pumagolf.com, and select global retailers.
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Rankings Show Packers Have Right Play-Callers Calling Shots
Pro Football Network ranked Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur as the 5th-best offensive play-caller and defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley as the 10th-best defensive play-caller in the NFL. Despite acknowledged flaws like a poor record against top NFC teams and limited playoff success, LaFleur successfully managed the transition from Aaron Rodgers to Jordan Love in 2023. He also navigated the offense effectively when Malik Willis replaced Love for several games in 2024. Under LaFleur, the Packers' offense improved statistically, moving from 14th in points and 17th in yards in 2022 to 8th in points and 5th in yards in 2024. PFN credited LaFleur's flexibility, schematic creativity, and nuanced run-game design, especially his ability to adapt to a limited QB situation and later channel Love's volatility into an explosive attack after his return. The addition of Josh Jacobs shifted the offense towards being the third-most run-heavy in the league, creating a "thunder-and-lightning" approach alongside Love's downfield passing. With young weapons developing and key players returning from injury, PFN views LaFleur's offense as ascending. On defense, coordinator Jeff Hafley led the unit to finish the 2024 season ranked 6th in points allowed and 5th in yards allowed, their best performance since the 2010 Super Bowl season. This achievement came despite an inconsistent pass rush and significant injuries, notably to All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander, forcing reliance on rookies in the secondary and at linebacker. Hafley emphasized that his proudest accomplishment was the unit's effort, physicality, confidence, and communication, particularly how hard they played at the end of the season. Looking ahead, the potential of players like Edgerrin Cooper and the addition of Nate Hobbs, combined with an offseason to address the pass rush, suggests potential defensive improvement in 2025. Hafley stressed the need to evolve the system, rebuild to their end-of-season level quickly, and further develop player relationships and trust in his second year.
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Bundesliga club keeping tabs on struggling Saint for top-flight survival
Hamburg, newly promoted to the Bundesliga, are showing interest in Southampton defender Armel Bella-Kotchap as they prepare for their relegation battle. The report suggests Hamburg might offer Bella-Kotchap a similar role to the one he successfully played at his former club, Bochum, several years ago. At Bochum, the young centre-back helped the newly promoted team avoid relegation and stay in the Bundesliga for four consecutive seasons. Hamburg appears to be inspired by Bochum's success with Bella-Kotchap and could pursue a determined approach to sign the 23-year-old, who had previously indicated his intention to leave Southampton. This opportunity represents a potential chance for Bella-Kotchap to rebuild his career back in the Bundesliga, the league where his career initially took off.
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Champions League first qualifying round: The long road to Budapest begins
The first qualifying round of the Champions League begins this week, described as the competition's purest form. It features 28 teams, all national champions, kicking off in Kuopio, Finland. Armenian champions Noah are the only debutants, while San Marino's Virtus are the lowest-ranked team, requiring eight wins to reach the league phase. Only Liechtenstein (no league) and Russia (banned) lack a Champions League spot. This starts the 326-day journey to the 2026 Budapest final. Historically, progressing from the first round to the group/league phase is rare; only 10 teams have achieved it, including Slovan Bratislava last season. Slovan won four qualifying rounds to reach the league phase, where they lost all eight games. Despite this, they earned over £15m and played 16 matches, only one fewer than eventual champions PSG. A team reaching the final from this stage could play 25 games. Liverpool (2005-06) are the only team to start in the first qualifying round and reach the knockout stages. As holders who finished fifth domestically, UEFA granted them special dispensation to enter but required them to start in round one. They won three qualifying rounds (beating TNS, FBK Kaunas, CSKA Sofia), won their group, but were eliminated in the last 16.
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'End of an era' for Chelsea as Todd Boehly to completely change how he runs the Blues, 'big story'
Chelsea have been fined by UEFA for breaching spending rules ahead of their return to the Champions League next season. The club, which has been navigating Premier League financial regulations since the Todd Boehly-led takeover, previously sold its women's team to itself to address potential domestic issues – a move other clubs like Aston Villa are now considering, though UEFA does not recognise such profits. As part of their settlement with UEFA, Chelsea reportedly need to raise £60m from player sales this summer. Finance expert Adam Williams suggests this specific target is manageable within Chelsea's existing model of operating a large "portfolio" of players for trading. However, he highlights a more significant challenge: meeting UEFA's strict profit-and-loss targets for the 2025-26, 2026-27, and potentially subsequent seasons. Williams explains that Chelsea cannot use the same accounting methods employed for the Premier League, such as selling the women's team, hotels, or using player swap deals to inflate profits, as UEFA does not recognise these. Crucially, with Chelsea currently operating at a loss exceeding £200m per year, Williams states meeting UEFA's targets will require a fundamental change in how the club is run, involving a massive increase in revenue and significant cost-cutting. While the Club World Cup provided a revenue boost, Chelsea still need to find other income streams, such as securing a new front-of-shirt sponsor following the end of DAMAC's short-term deal. Building a new stadium is not seen as a viable short-term solution due to the time required.
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Cam Newton vs. Jalen Hurts is the stupid internet argument with only one correct answer
A heated debate among NFL fans centers on comparing Cam Newton and Jalen Hurts, particularly as Hurts nears Newton's quarterback rushing touchdown record, needing 21 more while averaging 14 per season recently. Both are impactful dual-threat quarterbacks whose passing stats don't always compare favorably to peers. The author argues Newton is definitively superior, dismissing the debate as unnecessary. While acknowledging Hurts is fantastic for the Eagles, a key reason for their Super Bowl win and future contention, the author states Hurts is simply not on Newton's unique level. Comparing their first five seasons statistically highlights a contrast: Newton generated significantly more total passing and rushing yards (18,263 passing yards, 3,207 rushing yards, 43 rushing TDs) and bigger plays, while Hurts showed greater passing efficiency (64.4% completion, 85 TDs vs 39 INTs) and a better TD/INT ratio. The core of the argument, according to the author, lies in the supporting casts. Hurts benefits from playing for the Eagles, described as one of the NFL's best-run organizations with an elite GM and the league's best offensive line. In stark contrast, Newton played for a Panthers organization criticized as dysfunctional ("three kids in a trench coat"), with a damaging front office that failed to provide adequate weapons. The author emphasizes that Newton carried the Panthers to the 2015 Super Bowl despite having, in their view, the worst receiving corps of any Super Bowl team in 20 years (Ted Ginn Jr., Corey Brown, Jerricho Cotchery, Devin Funchess) and an offensive line featuring only two good players (Ryan Kalil, Trai Turner) alongside weak links like Mike Remmers. The author contends the Panthers wouldn't have been a .500 team without Newton, crediting him solely for their top-ranked offense and Super Bowl berth. The author concludes that while Hurts excels in specific areas like the "Tush Push," the Eagles would likely remain an elite playoff team with another capable quarterback, though perhaps not Super Bowl champions. This contrasts sharply with Newton's indispensable role in Carolina's success.
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