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The Stuttgart Surge secured a crucial 54-39 road victory over the Frankfurt Galaxy in Week 9 of the European League of Football, strengthening their playoff position. Surge quarterback Reilly Hennessey dominated with 360 passing yards and 6 touchdowns, connecting with receivers Mike Harley Jr. (102 yards, 1 TD), Louis Geyer (172 yards, 3 TDs), and tight end Roberto Miranda (2 TDs). Running back Kai Hunter opened scoring with a 5-yard TD, while the defense set an early tone with Raphael Zistler sacking Galaxy QB Jameson Wang. Frankfurt mounted a comeback through special teams brilliance, with returners Brevin Easton and Bijon Harris combining for 174 return yards. Harris's 74-yard punt return touchdown before halftime narrowed the deficit to 28-20. Wang leveraged short fields effectively, throwing 4 touchdowns amid 62 attempts and connecting with Easton and Kevin Kaya, while running back Gerald Ameln added two rushing scores. Critical defensive plays shifted momentum decisively. Linebacker Nikolas Knoblauch forced a fumble recovered by Marko Vidackovic, leading to Hennessey's 12-yard rushing TD. Cornerback Nick Wenzelburger's fourth-quarter interception halted a Galaxy drive, enabling Geyer's third touchdown on the subsequent possession. Despite surrendering 456 total yards to Wang, the Surge defense secured three fourth-down stops. Stuttgart sealed victory with a third-quarter offensive explosion. Coach Jordan Neuman utilized Hunter's ground game (68 rushing yards) to control the clock, while Hennessey dissected Frankfurt's secondary. Geyer's one-handed TD catch and Miranda's acrobatic score extended the lead to 54-27, ultimately weathering a late Galaxy rally. Postgame, Neuman praised Frankfurt's resilience, noting Wang's "exceptional" performance but highlighted his team's clutch execution. The win positions Stuttgart second in the ELF West ahead of a critical matchup against Paris, while Frankfurt's playoff hopes diminish. Despite amassing 488 total yards to underscore their title credentials, Stuttgart faces defensive adjustments after conceding 39 points.
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Major League Soccer (MLS) and the MLS Players Association (MLSPA) agreed during the Club World Cup to restructure player bonus compensation for the tournament. MLS committed to paying players a minimum 40% increase over the $1 million maximum originally stipulated in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Additionally, players will receive 30% of all Club World Cup performance prize money without any cap. LAFC also received a separate $250,000 bonus for winning the play-in match that secured their tournament spot after Club León's expulsion. The agreement was finalized on June 27th, shortly before Inter Miami's knockout stage game. MLS characterized the deal as providing "meaningful enhancements" and "substantial value" beyond CBA requirements, calling it the "most lucrative bonus package in the tournament." The need for renegotiation arose because the current CBA's $1 million bonus cap was set before the tournament's expanded format and unprecedented prize pool ($9.55 million participation fee plus performance bonuses for Concacaf teams) existed. Negotiations were prolonged and contentious, extending into the tournament itself, with both sides expressing frustration. The MLSPA stated that players were "deeply disappointed" with the league's tactics, citing "stonewalling, threats and retaliation," and warned this approach would not work in future major negotiations, including upcoming CBA talks set to expire in 2028. The bonus dispute became public when Seattle Sounders players wore "Club World Cash Grab" shirts during warm-ups. Despite losing all three of their games, Sounders players collectively earned $1.4 million in bonuses. LAFC earned one point in the group stage, resulting in $1.8 million in bonuses ($1.25M participation, $250K qualifying, $300K draw). Inter Miami was the most successful MLS team, winning a game and advancing to the knockout stage, earning their players $4.7 million ($1.25M participation, $1.2M group stage results, $2.25M knockout stage). MLS also permitted team owners to convert up to $750,000 of their Club World Cup payouts into allocation money for roster budgets, an option all three participating teams utilized fully.
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Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz during the upcoming summer transfer window. According to Football Insider, Manchester United will face competition for the Brazilian international from Premier League rivals Everton. However, Everton's approach differs as they are seeking to secure the player on a loan deal and are not prepared to commit to a permanent transfer.
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Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana has suffered an injury that could sideline him for six weeks, jeopardizing his availability for the Premier League season opener. This setback forces manager Ruben Amorim to adjust pre-season plans, starting with this weekend's friendly against Leeds United. Onana's absence impacts squad decisions, as backup Altay Bayindir may now stay at the club rather than leave. Third-choice keeper Radek Vitek is also unlikely to be loaned to Millwall due to the shortage, prompting United to consider new signings despite Amorim wanting to evaluate Vitek. The club has targeted Botafogo's John Victor but is actively pursuing Aston Villa's Emiliano Martinez. Argentine journalist Gaston Edul – renowned for reliability – reports negotiations have begun, stating: "Manchester United made a move specifically for Emiliano Martínez. Negotiations are already underway with Aston Villa." The 32-year-old Martínez, a 2022 World Cup winner with Argentina and widely regarded as elite, has four years remaining on his Villa contract. However, Villa's failure to qualify for the Champions League increases the likelihood of a sale. The Daily Mail corroborates United's interest, noting players have heard of the club's intent and that an initial enquiry has been made.
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The Dallas Cowboys, lacking consistent passing threats beyond CeeDee Lamb in 2024, explored receiver prospects in the NFL draft. When unsuccessful, they turned to the trade market, acquiring George Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers to become their legitimate starting receiver opposite Lamb. A key question arose regarding expectations for Pickens as he transitions from being the WR1 in Pittsburgh to the WR2 role in Dallas. Staff writers at DallasCowboys.com expressed high expectations for Pickens, with six predicting significant contributions. Tommy Yarrish specifically forecasted Pickens making his first Pro Bowl appearance in the Cowboys' offense, believing he will mesh well with Lamb to elevate the passing game and provide a better vertical threat. Mickey Spagnola viewed Pickens as potentially serving as "a co-No. 1 receiver." Kyle Youmans added that Pickens would be motivated by his expiring contract. He emphasized that while Pickens is clearly the No. 2 behind Lamb, he possesses the capability to take over a game if needed – a crucial factor for Dallas during their receiver search. Youmans stated the expectation is that Pickens could deliver a 150-yard performance if Lamb were shut down or unavailable, an ability other considered options lacked. While quantifying expectations is difficult, the writers agree the primary goal is for Pickens to alleviate pressure on Lamb, and they anticipate he will successfully fulfill this role.
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A record-breaking 197 nominees have been announced for the 2025 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team®, the highest number in the award's 34-year history. College football student-athletes and head coaches from all levels are recognized for their commitment to community service and leadership beyond football. Sam Acho, ESPN analyst, former NFL player, and 2010 Good Works Team member, praised the nominees, stating their commitment creates lasting change and inspires others. This year's nominees are addressing critical issues including youth mentorship, mental wellness, homelessness, and healthcare access. Allstate is partnering with the Wuerffel Foundation for the second year to align the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team recognition with the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy, honoring excellence in community service, academics, and athletics. Danny Wuerffel, namesake of the trophy, emphasized the significant "ripple effect" created by nearly 200 young athletes choosing to serve, noting their community leadership deserves recognition equal to their on-field performance. The final roster of 23 award recipients will be announced in September. It will comprise 11 players from the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), 11 players from the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), Divisions II, III, and the NAIA, plus one head coach. A voting panel of former team members, head coaches, and journalists will select the team based on outstanding leadership on and off the field. Established in 1992, the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team honors college football players and staff for their off-field community efforts. The Southeastern Conference (SEC) leads all conferences with 89 selections since the award's inception, followed by the Atlantic Coast Conference (55) and the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (43). The University of Georgia has the most honorees (24), followed by Kentucky and Bethel (Minn.) with 18 each.
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Camron Cooper, a redshirt junior linebacker at UTSA, has been nominated for the 2025 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team®, as announced by Allstate and the American Football Coaches Association. This year saw a record-breaking 197 nominees, the highest number in the award's 34-year history. Established in 1992, the award recognizes college football players and student staff for their off-field community service efforts. Since 2008, Allstate has presented the award, and for the second year, is partnering with the Wuerffel Foundation to align this honor with the Wuerffel Trophy, recognizing excellence in community service, academics, and athletics. Cooper's nomination highlights his extensive volunteer work. His efforts include mentoring and reading to students through UTSA's Rowdy Readers program at Virginia Meyers Elementary, making regular visits to Christus Children's Hospital patients, serving as a course monitor for the Diploma Dash, supporting the San Antonio Food Bank, participating in the Get in the Game, Save a Life Campaign, mentoring youth at local sporting events, and being active in UTSA's Fellowship of Christian Athletes. During the 2023 Frisco Bowl trip, he volunteered with Frisco Fastpacs, building food care packages for children. On the field, Cooper played in all 13 games last season for UTSA, contributing at outside linebacker and on special teams. Notable performances include a season-high four tackles in his first start at Army, a blocked punt against Florida Atlantic, recording two tackles (including a sack) and causing a fumble at Tulsa, another sack against Temple, and two stops in the Myrtle Beach Bowl win against Coastal Carolina. The award honors college football student-athletes and coaches for their commitment to community service and leadership beyond football. Quotes from Danny Wuerffel (namesake of the Wuerffel Trophy) and Sam Acho (former Good Works Team member) emphasized the significant impact and inspiration created by the nominees' service. The final roster of 23 award recipients will be announced in September, selected by a panel of former team members, head coaches, and journalists based on outstanding on and off-field leadership. The article concludes with details about UTSA's upcoming 15th football season, starting with a nationally televised game against Texas A&M on August 30th. The Roadrunners will host several home games at the Alamodome, including matchups against Texas State, UIW, Rice, Tulane, East Carolina, and Army. Information is provided on purchasing season or single-game tickets, renewals for season-ticket holders, and free admission for current UTSA students. Merchandise commemorating UTSA Football's 15th season is also available.
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Jurgen Klopp, the former Liverpool manager, has expressed his support for Liverpool's signing of German star Florian Wirtz but emphasized that the player's success hinges on resolving one major uncertainty. Klopp stated that Wirtz's time at the club will be defined by the answer to the question of where he will fit into the team's system. Wirtz completed a £100 million transfer from Bayer Leverkusen to Liverpool in June, signing a five-year contract that could potentially rise to £116 million with add-ons. Despite other new signings featuring in Liverpool's first pre-season match against Preston, a 3-1 win, Wirtz was excluded from the squad. This omission was confirmed as part of a deliberate fitness management strategy. The core issue, as highlighted by Klopp, revolves around where manager Arne Slot intends to deploy Wirtz. Klopp explicitly questioned, "where will Wirtz fit in?" and noted, "Yes (he will establish himself), although of course I don't know exactly which position Arne has in mind for Florian." Slot faces a decision on Wirtz's role, with multiple tactical options available including playing him as an attacking midfielder, a false nine, a winger, or in a deeper midfield position.
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On July 15, 2025, Cristiano Ronaldo publicly expressed his support for longtime rival Lionel Messi to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The endorsement, reported at 19:26 IST, highlights Ronaldo's belief that Messi should extend his international career despite their historic rivalry.
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Two key players from the Los Angeles Chargers, Justin Herbert and Rashawn Slater, were recently recognized in ESPN analyst Jeremy Fowler's annual top 10 rankings for their positions. Quarterback Justin Herbert was ranked No. 7 on the list. He holds the NFL record for most career passing yards through five seasons with 21,093 yards. In the 2023 season, his attempts per game decreased from 35 to 29.6 due to offensive coordinator Greg Roman's run-heavy strategy, but he achieved a remarkably low interception rate of 0.6% on 504 attempts, the best since Tom Brady in 2016. Herbert threw for 3,870 yards with 23 touchdowns and three interceptions, posting a career-high passer rating of 101.7, and added 306 rushing yards with two touchdowns. An AFC executive praised him as underrated, stating Herbert is consistently a top 5-8 quarterback due to his accuracy, athleticism, and decision-making, and would be a high draft pick if the league restarted. Offensive tackle Rashawn Slater secured the No. 6 spot on his position list. Voters highlighted his athleticism as an ideal fit for Roman's system, noting he had the fewest run-block losses (68) among qualifying players who appeared in at least 12 games. Slater committed only two penalties across 904 snaps and earned Pro Bowl honors. An NFC executive emphasized that Slater excels against pressure and in schemes prioritizing movement over physicality. Additionally, rookie Joe Alt received honorable mention consideration after his first NFL season, with an AFC executive providing comments, though the specifics were not detailed in the report.
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Former NFL player James Jones strongly criticized ESPN's Top 10 quarterback rankings, specifically objecting to Jalen Hurts being placed at No. 9 and Justin Herbert ranked ahead of him at No. 7. Jones called the list "awful" during an appearance on FS1's 'The Facility', stating, "There should never be a list where Justin Herbert is in front of Jalen Hurts," dismissing arguments based purely on Herbert's perceived talent. Herbert's No. 7 ranking represented a slight drop from his No. 6 position the previous summer. An anonymous AFC executive defended Herbert's placement, describing him as "always been a top-5-8 QB" who is "accurate to all levels, athletic, [a] sound decision-maker," and even suggested Herbert is now "underrated" and "taken for granted." Jones vehemently disagreed with the notion that Herbert is underrated, pointing directly to their playoff accomplishments as the key differentiator. He argued, "I see Justin Herbert at seven, who hasn't won a playoff game. [Jalen Hurts] has been to more Super Bowls than you have won playoff games." Jones found the idea that Herbert is better than Hurts disrespectful to Hurts. Jones highlighted Hurts' recent success, noting his MVP-caliber season two years prior where he threw for 3,701 yards and 22 touchdowns while rushing for 760 yards and 13 touchdowns, leading the Eagles to a 14-1 record. That season culminated in a Super Bowl appearance, and although they lost, Hurts was widely considered to have outperformed Patrick Mahomes. Hurts later won the Super Bowl and its MVP award the following season. Jones contrasted this with Herbert's resume, which lacks comparable playoff success. He also expressed strong belief in rookie Jayden Daniels, stating, "Jayden Daniels is going to be a superstar in this league."
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In just 250 days, Aurélien Tchouaméni has undergone a remarkable transformation from a jeered player to a vital tactical piece for Xabi Alonso. On November 5, 2024, he endured a nightmare performance for Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu, being booed off the pitch at halftime after costly mistakes against Milan. This marked a low point, with intense criticism following him for weeks. The turning point arrived on January 16 in a Copa del Rey match against Celta. Despite whistles when his name was announced, Tchouaméni delivered an outstanding performance, signaling the start of his resurgence. His recovery began step by step from this point onward. Today, Tchouaméni is indispensable in Xabi Alonso's system. He operates as a pivot and a third center-back alongside Huijsen, a complex and demanding role that allows Alonso to implement a three-center-back formation. Tchouaméni has excelled, becoming a "compass" for the team and consistently performing well, even standing out during difficult team performances like the loss to PSG, where he led in passes completed (36) and was second in ball recoveries (5). His pass accuracy in this role is nearly 98%. Within the club, Tchouaméni is now viewed as irreplaceable due to a lack of natural backup. Güler is learning the number 6 role, Valverde has filled in unconvincingly, and Camavinga appears better suited to an interior position than Tchouaméni's specific pivot/third center-back role. The club's failure to sign Zubimendi further underscores Tchouaméni's essential status. This dramatic shift, from being a targeted player seemingly at rock bottom 250 days ago to becoming an undisputed starter and tactical cornerstone, highlights his extraordinary turnaround.
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Alvaro Rodriguez has expressed his desire to leave Real Madrid during the upcoming summer transfer window. This decision comes despite the fact that he previously turned down offers from both Barcelona and Manchester United in order to join Real Madrid, which he described as his "dream" club.
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The San Francisco 49ers enter the 2025 NFL season aiming to re-establish themselves as contenders after missing the playoffs last year, a significant drop from their Super Bowl appearance in 2023. Key injuries plagued the 49ers last season. Star running back Christian McCaffrey missed most of the year, starting with Achilles issues in both legs before suffering a season-ending knee injury after only four games. Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk also missed a large portion of the season due to a torn ACL, among other roster injuries. McCaffrey has worked hard to recover and is currently reported to be back to full health and ready for the 2025 season. Expectations for him are high, especially recalling his significant 2023 impact where he rushed for 1,459 yards and 14 touchdowns, while also catching 67 passes for 564 yards and seven touchdowns. However, ESPN ranked McCaffrey as the NFL's fifth-best running back, with one league executive expressing concern about his durability, citing a history of injuries dating back to college. The executive acknowledged McCaffrey's elite training regimen but noted his smaller frame and predicted he would "lose a step eventually." This concern is supported by McCaffrey's injury history: he played full 16-game seasons for his first three years but only managed three, seven, and six games respectively over the next three seasons.
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Newcastle United are keen on signing Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini this summer, viewing him as a promising talent despite his limited appearances—only eight Serie A games last season—due to injury setbacks. However, the club faces a significant hurdle with Atalanta demanding around £52 million for the 21-year-old, a price deemed steep given his two major injuries in the past year. Scalvini is reportedly open to a move to Newcastle after learning of their interest, influenced by positive feedback from current Newcastle player Sandro Tonali. Despite this, Atalanta's manager Ivan Juric intends to build his team around Scalvini, who is now recovering to full fitness after a shoulder injury, complicating Newcastle's hopes for a bargain deal. Due to the high cost of Scalvini, Newcastle are exploring alternative targets, including Chelsea defender Axel Disasi. Disasi, who joined Chelsea from Monaco for £39 million in 2024, struggled in England and quickly lost his starting spot under manager Enzo Maresca, culminating in a loan spell at Aston Villa in the latter part of the 2024/25 season. Chelsea have informed Disasi he can leave this summer, with Newcastle showing interest. Although Villarreal are also pursuing the 27-year-old Frenchman, Disasi prefers staying in the Premier League, giving Newcastle an advantage in potential negotiations. His transfer fee is estimated at around £26 million, making him a far cheaper option compared to Scalvini. Despite Disasi's lower price, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe favors pursuing Scalvini over the French defender. Howe had previously advised against signing Disasi in 2024, expressing strong opposition to bringing him to the club, which underscores his current reluctance. This summer's search follows Newcastle's failed attempts to sign Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi last year, where multiple bids were rejected. With Guehi not on their radar now, the club is assessing other options, but Howe's preference for Scalvini remains clear despite the financial challenges.
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Unai Hernandez has publicly reflected on his decision to depart his boyhood club Barcelona for Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad, addressing the motivations behind this significant career move. The player emphasized his immediate success at Al-Ittihad, highlighting how he has already secured trophies and is thriving both professionally and personally in his new environment in Saudi Arabia.
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Following Chelsea's 3-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup final, a post-match brawl erupted involving both teams. The tension escalated after PSG's João Neves received an 86th-minute red card for pulling Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella's hair, culminating in clashes at the final whistle. Footage appeared to show PSG coach Luis Enrique pushing Chelsea forward João Pedro to the ground during the confrontation. Enrique later explained he was attempting to separate players to prevent further escalation, stating: "My intention was to separate the footballers so the situations didn't become worse." He acknowledged the incident reflected poorly but attributed it to match pressure, noting he saw Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca "pushing others" amid the chaos. Chelsea's João Pedro suggested PSG players "lost their heads" due to the defeat but downplayed the incident, commenting: "This is football... we won the tournament, that's it." He declined to elaborate further on the opposition's behavior. Despite the loss denying PSG a world title to complement their Champions League trophy, Enrique rejected the "losers" label for his team, asserting: "We are the runners-up. A loser is somebody who gives up." PSG will now take a break before resuming Ligue 1 play on the weekend of August 17.
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Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas has publicly criticized star striker Viktor Gyokeres for failing to report to pre-season training, warning of disciplinary consequences for the Swedish international's absence. Varandas stated the situation would be resolved with "a heavy fine and an apology to the group," emphasizing that Gyokeres remains under contract for three more years, giving the club full control over his future. The absence is widely interpreted as Gyokeres pushing for a transfer, with several Premier League clubs including Arsenal and Manchester United (where he could reunite with former manager Ruben Amorim) showing interest. Varandas forcefully rejected any notion that this tactic pressures Sporting, declaring that "no one is above the club's interests" and that such actions actually complicate a potential exit rather than facilitating it. Since joining from Coventry City in 2023, Gyokeres has scored 97 goals in 102 appearances, becoming one of Europe's most prolific strikers and helping Sporting win consecutive Primeira Liga titles. Despite his status as a hot commodity, Sporting remain firm on their valuation and refuse to accept anything below what they deem fair market value. As Sporting continue their pre-season schedule, including an upcoming friendly against Celtic, the club's leadership has made clear that discipline and institutional order take precedence over any player's personal ambitions, leaving Gyokeres' immediate future uncertain.
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Arsenal fans will have the opportunity to see several talented Hale End academy players during the club's pre-season activities. The team is currently at a training camp in La Manga, Spain, featuring youngsters like Max Dowman and Ismeal Kabia, with Kabia returning in excellent shape. Remarkably, 18-year-olds Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri are no longer considered just youth talents, having progressed to become key first-team players. While excitement is high about Dowman's potential breakthrough, more names might emerge following Arsenal's pre-season tour of Asia. Another prominent youngster at the Spain camp is 18-year-old central midfielder Louie Copley, who recently signed his first professional contract with Arsenal. Copley described signing the deal as the 'highest of the highs'. He expressed particular admiration for current teammate Declan Rice, stating he looks up to Rice the most now, especially after being impressed seeing him train. Copley, identifying himself as a box-to-box midfielder similar to Rice, explained he watches Rice closely in training to learn and implement aspects of his game, acknowledging Rice is at the very top. He found the intensity and standards of first-team training 'crazy' and noted the shift from being a fan to competing with them. While naming Jack Wilshere and Alexis Sanchez as past players he loved watching, his current focus is on emulating Rice. Describing his own playing style as full of energy, enjoying both defending and attacking, Copley outlined his ambitions: he wants to establish himself in the under-21s but ultimately aims for the first team, explicitly targeting a first-team appearance this season.
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In ESPN.com's annual survey of 70 NFL coaches, executives, and scouts, Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs was voted the No. 1 offensive tackle in the league. Wirfs led all 24 tackles who received a top-10 vote. This marks a rise from his No. 4 ranking last year. Wirfs achieved a historic feat by earning first-team All-Pro honors at both left tackle and right tackle positions, something no other NFL player has accomplished. Notably, he achieved this recognition in his second NFL season playing each position (2021 at right tackle, 2024 at left tackle). ESPN attributed only two sacks to him last season, and his 95.9% pass block win rate led all tackles. An NFC executive praised Wirfs, stating that while he might not have the flashy plays of some peers like Penei Sewell, he makes everything look easy due to his rare combination of size and athleticism. Wirfs is currently the highest-paid tackle in the NFL, earning $28.125 million per year. Detroit Lions tackle Penei Sewell ranked No. 2 behind Wirfs, and Philadelphia Eagles tackle Lane Johnson was ranked No. 3. Additionally, Buccaneers right tackle Luke Goedeke received at least one vote but ranked below the honorable mention group.
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Tottenham Hotspur have completed the signing of winger Mohammed Kudus from West Ham United for a fee of approximately £55 million ($74.7m). The 24-year-old Ghanaian international has signed a six-year contract with the club. Kudus began his career at Ghana's Right to Dream Academy before joining Danish club Nordsjaelland in 2018. After two seasons and 57 appearances (14 goals), he moved to Ajax for the 2020-21 season. Over three seasons in Amsterdam, hampered by injuries, he scored 27 goals in 87 appearances. West Ham signed him in summer 2023, where he made 80 appearances, scoring 19 goals and providing 13 assists across two seasons. Kudus' primary strength is his exceptional dribbling ability; he is extremely difficult to dispossess, excels in one-on-one situations, and boasts quick feet with rapid changes of direction. Last season in the Premier League, his 7.2 take-ons attempted per 90 minutes were second only to Jeremy Doku. He also demonstrates smart off-the-ball movement and can hold up play. While primarily a winger, he has experience across the forward line and midfield. A noted weakness is his finishing, as his shot accuracy is relatively low. Tottenham's new head coach, Thomas Frank, is expected to value Kudus' dynamism, particularly his explosive dribbling which can help break down defensive blocks and his ball-carrying prowess in transition. His skills align with Tottenham's strength in fast counter-attacks (they scored 10 fast-break goals last season, second only to Liverpool) and should amplify this aspect of their play, even if Frank's overall style differs from Ange Postecoglou's. Kudus has a significant history of injuries. During his time at Ajax, he suffered multiple setbacks including a knee injury (Oct 2020 - Feb 2021), an ankle issue (start of 2021-22 season), a fractured rib (Nov 2021 - Feb 2022), and a hamstring problem causing a four-game absence in the following campaign.
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Real Madrid has decided against activating their buyback option for former academy player Nico Paz this summer, as reported by AS citing transfer expert Fabrizio Romano using anonymous sources. The club has formally communicated this decision to Como. Madrid sold Paz to Como last summer for €6.3 million ($7.3 million), retaining 50% of his rights and securing buyback clauses for the next three seasons. The buyback prices are set at €8 million ($9.3 million) for 2025, €9 million ($10.5 million) for 2026, and €10 million ($11.6 million) for 2027. Paz joined Como after contributing to Real Madrid's 2024/2025 treble-winning season under Carlo Ancelotti, which included the Champions League, La Liga, and Spanish Super Cup. Before departing for the Brazil national team, Ancelotti praised Paz, calling him "very talented" and stating he was being closely followed, believing Paz could be "the future of Real Madrid." This had fueled speculation Paz might return via the "Carvajal route" after gaining experience. However, Romano confirmed Real Madrid will not trigger the €8 million clause this summer. Como plans to retain Paz for the upcoming season. Consequently, Real Madrid retains the option to buy him back for €9 million next summer (2026). Meanwhile, Real Madrid is focusing on strengthening other areas, specifically targeting a central defender, left-back Álvaro Carreras from Benfica, and reportedly seeking two midfielders in the medium term.
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Real Madrid is reportedly aiming to achieve an unprecedented €1.3 billion ($1.5 billion) in revenue during the 2025–26 season. This ambitious target follows their strong financial performance in the previous campaign, where they generated nearly €1.2 billion ($1.4 billion) even before participating in the FIFA Club World Cup. At the Club World Cup, Real Madrid reached the semifinals but suffered a 4–0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. Despite the elimination, the club earned €74 million ($86.5 million) in prize money from the tournament. This additional income elevated their total revenue close to €1.3 billion ($1.5 billion), solidifying their position as the world's most profitable soccer team. The club had already made financial history a year earlier by becoming the first to exceed €1 billion ($1.2 billion) in revenue, driven by commercial partnerships and their 2023–24 Champions League victory. According to Forbes, Real Madrid is valued at $6.75 billion, narrowly ahead of Manchester United's $6.6 billion valuation. Bolstered by this substantial income, Real Madrid invested significantly in summer signings, acquiring Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and Franco Mastantuono, with Álvaro Carreras reportedly joining soon. The club anticipates further revenue growth if they maintain competitive dominance in Spanish and European competitions next season.
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The Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen and general manager Chris Ballard are under significant pressure entering the season. Their Week 4 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams could be critical, potentially becoming a "win or be fired" situation. The Colts face a challenging start, playing the Dolphins, Broncos, and Titans in the first three weeks. There's a real possibility they could be 0-3 entering the Rams game. A loss to the Rams might prompt new owners Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson to initiate a full-scale rebuild. Conversely, desperation could lead the Colts to win early games, setting up a crucial test against the Rams. Optimism exists that the Colts could contend for the division title by relying on running back Jonathan Taylor and a significantly improved defense. Key defensive additions include cornerback Charvarius Ward and safety Camryn Bynum. The hiring of defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, credited with developing strong Bengals defenses, is expected to benefit the team. Consistent, turnover-free play from either quarterback Anthony Richardson or Daniel Jones could be enough for the Colts to rise in the standings. The Rams' offense will be tested by this formidable Colts defense, built by Anarumo (who developed Trey Hendrickson) and featuring rookie Laiatu Latu, along with established stars DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart. Furthermore, the Colts bolstered their secondary. For the Rams, this game serves as a key evaluation of their offseason improvements against the run. The Colts are expected to heavily utilize Jonathan Taylor, providing a clear assessment of the Rams' run defense depth and their newly formed linebacker group.
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Real Madrid anticipates a busy final stretch of the summer transfer window with potential signings and player departures. Midfielder Dani Ceballos is identified as one player who could possibly leave the club. Ceballos is considered underrated at Real Madrid but has consistently been behind Tchouameni, Valverde, Camavinga, Modric, and Kroos in the midfield hierarchy in recent years, limiting his starting opportunities. Despite struggling for consistent playing time, he has impressed when given chances. After earning a run of starts in the second half of last season, an injury sidelined him long-term, and he hasn't regained his place since. His prospects under new manager Xabi Alonso appear uncertain based on the Club World Cup. However, reports indicate Alonso is currently counting on Ceballos for the upcoming season, and the 28-year-old isn't actively seeking a move. His stance could change if Real Madrid signs another midfielder, as Ceballos prioritizes regular playing time to secure a spot in Spain's 2026 World Cup squad. Ceballos has frequently been linked with a return to his boyhood club, Real Betis, who have openly expressed interest. While a summer move to Betis remains possible if Madrid signs a midfielder, it's still considered unlikely. With Ceballos' contract running until 2027, Real Madrid would likely be open to his departure this summer but won't override Alonso's preference. The situation depends on whether Real Madrid decides to sign a new midfielder, a decision they haven't finalized yet.
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Real Madrid could accelerate the transfer of Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté to this season, despite initial expectations of a 2026 move on a free transfer. Konaté, whose contract expires in 2025, has reportedly informed Liverpool he is open to leaving this summer. The club officially announced the signing of 20-year-old Moroccan striker Rachad Fettal from Almería. Fettal will join Real Madrid Castilla. Luka Modrić's move to AC Milan is nearing completion, with a medical scheduled for Monday. The Croatian midfielder is set to sign a one-year contract with the Italian club after leaving Real Madrid. Forward Rodrygo is attracting significant interest. Arsenal and Chelsea have held talks with his representatives, while Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich are also interested. Bayern Munich reportedly submitted an offer following an injury to Jamal Musiala and after missing out on Nico Williams. Real Madrid rejected a substantial offer from Manchester United for midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni. The Premier League club's bid was reportedly around €78 million (£78 million/$105 million). Tchouaméni is viewed as a crucial player under new manager Xabi Alonso.
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The MLS Live Blog is covering a full Saturday night schedule featuring 28 of the league's 30 clubs in action across the country. Readers are invited to follow the blog throughout the evening for all goals and highlights. The night is expected to be defined by a pair of significant conference clashes. Additionally, the match between FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew remains delayed.
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