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Manolo Marquez Quits as India Coach After AIFF Fallout: What Went Wrong?

July 2, 2025, 8:21 pm

Troubled India football national team head coach Manolo Marquez resigned on Wednesday following a “mutual agreement” with the All India Football Federation (AIFF), which was under pressure to rectify accountability for the recent slide of the national team.

AIFF Releases Manolo Marquez Following Committee Meeting

The AIFF Executive Committee, during its meeting, decided to release the 56-year-old Marquez after he had indicated that he wanted to resign notwithstanding a year remaining in his contract

“The AIFF and Manolo decided to mutually part ways without any financial implications to any of the two parties. So, he is relieved from being India coach. The AIFF will shortly advertise for the post of head coach,” AIFF Deputy Secretary General K Satyanarayana told PTI.

The Spaniard took over as head coach in June 2024 on a two-year contract. He performed a dual role last season when he was also the head coach of Indian Super League club FC Goa during the 2024-25 season.

Poor Results and AFC Asian Cup Qualification Struggles

India was defeated 0-1 by lesser-ranked Hong Kong in an away game of the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers on June 10, and that left the nation at risk of failing to qualify for the regional spectacle in 2027, India recorded only a single victory from their past eight games under Marquez’s guidance, and that was against Maldives in March.

India have thus far played four games this year, of which they have won one, drew one, and lost two. Those poor performances saw the recall of veteran skipper and legendary striker Sunil Chhetri to the fold but that has not helped better the team’s fortunes.

India’s next international game is an away game against Singapore in the third round of Asian Cup qualifiers.

Manolo Marquez Wanted to Resign Before Hong Kong Match

Sources had stated that Marquez, who replaced Croatian Igor Stimac, had told the AIFF of his wish to resign some time ago even prior to the June 10 match against Hong Kong — but was unable to do so on his own since he required a consensus with the AIFF.

Marquez is among the longest serving foreign coaches in Indian football, with several Indian clubs having been managed by him. He has won trophies such as the Super Cup and the ISL Cup.

His one-year stint is the shortest among Indian head coaches in a decade Stephen Constantine was India head coach from 2015–2019 before Igor Stimac (2019−2024).

Cristiano Ronaldo Bags ₹2000+ Cr Annual Deal with Al Nassr, Gets Bonus Worth ₹446 Cr & Ownership Rights

June 27, 2025, 9:30 pm

Cristiano Ronaldo inked a new two-year contract extension with Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr after weeks of rumors about his future. Following the confirmation, the club also shared a teaser clip featuring Ronaldo walking on a beachside and saying, “Al Nassr forever”

Cristiano Ronaldo is now already 40-years-old and his Saudi Arabia saga hasn’t exactly panned out as planned. Al Nassr has also failed to qualify for AFC Champions Elite this season and the Portugal international had also hinted at a departure.

Cristiano Ronaldo Set to Retire at Al Nassr

But now it seems like he will finish his career at Al Nassr. As per a report from The Sun, Cristiano Ronaldo has also been handed 24.5 million pounds as a signing-on fee, which would rise to 38 million pounds if he stays in the second year of the contract.

Staggering Salary and Bonus Structure Revealed

As per The Sun report, he will also be receiving 178 million pounds annually in salaries, which amounts to 488,000 pounds daily. Cristiano Ronaldo will receive 492 million pounds, which may increase to more than half a billion pounds if he activates his bonuses of 4 million pounds (for the Golden Boot) and 8 million pounds if Al Nassr become champions.

Cristiano Ronaldo Granted Ownership Stake in Al Nassr

The report states that Cristiano Ronaldo has been awarded a 15 percent stake in the club, which amounts to 33 million pounds.

Ronaldo signed for Al Nassr in 2022 after departing Manchester United. This made him the world’s highest-paid athlete and he has also been at the top for the past three years, as compiled by Forbes. Ronaldo’s time with the club was marked by them not winning any big trophies, and they only won the Arab Club Champions Cup in 2023.

Al Nassr was in second place in the league during the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons, and also third in the last season.

Juventus Edge Wydad Casablanca as Kenan Yildiz Steals the Spotlight

June 23, 2025, 2:00 am

Kenan Yildiz netted twice and assisted once as Juventus defeated Wydad Casablanca 4-1 in the Club World Cup on Sunday to move closer to a last-16 spot. The Turkish international striker was unfortunate not to be officially credited with Juve’s early opening goal that ended up going down as an own goal by Abdelmounaim Boutouil. But there was no shadow of doubt that Yildiz had scored the second with an immense shot from the outside of the box. One in return was made by Thembinkosi Lorch for Wydad before half-time, but Yildiz scored his second of the day on 69 minutes before Dusan Vlahovic’s late penalty sealed the win for the Italian team.

Juventus on Brink of Knockout Stage After Back-to-Back Wins

Having already beaten Emirati counterparts Al Ain 5-0 on match day one, Juve have nine goals and the maximum six points after two matches in Group G. Their knockout stage place will be guaranteed if group rivals Manchester City don’t lose to Al Ain later on.

That leaves Igor Tudor’s Juve in a great position with a last group game to play on Thursday against City in Orlando.

Moroccan giants Wydad, on the other hand, are out with this loss after a 2-0 defeat to City in their opening game.

Yildiz Stars Again for Juventus at Lincoln Financial Field

Yildiz, the 20-year-old German-born winger, was one of the goal scorers against Al Ain and he starred here in front of 31,975 supporters at Lincoln Financial Field.

Juve, who secured fourth position in Serie A in the recently concluded campaign, opted with an unchanged line-up so the likes of Manuel Locatelli and Vlahovic started the game on the bench.

Braceful against Al Ain, they did not waste time in slicing and dicing the third-placed team in the Moroccan league.

Juventus Maintains Control with Clinical Finishing

The first goal arrived after six minutes when Khephren Thuram set up Yildiz and his shot found the net via a minimal deflection off Boutouil beating goalkeeper El Mehdi Benabid.

It was 2-0 on 16 minutes through a wonderful effort, as Andrea Cambiaso embarked on a sharp run in from the left before playing the ball inside for Yildiz to strike in a half-volley shot on the half-volley into the top corner.

Wydad soon pulled one back as veteran Nordin Amrabat’s good pass in behind the defence released South African winger Lorch to bring control and clip the ball past the goalkeeper.

But Juventus were firmly in control and Cambiaso struck the post just before the hour as Randal Kolo Muani seemingly failed to convert Lloyd Kelly’s ball across the box.

Vlahovic Adds Final Touch

Their third goal came just past the half-way point in the second half when France striker Kolo Muani picked up possession on the left and then played in Yildiz who shot into the corner.

It was his third of the tournament thus far, and his 12th overall across all competitions since the start of the season.

Substitute Vlahovic had replaced Yildiz before the fourth goal came in stoppage time, as he calmly stroked home a spot-kick after being pulled back by Guilherme Ferreira.

Harry Kane Nears All-Time England Caps Record in Historic Pursuit

March 26, 2025, 2:45 pm

HaEngland captain Harry Kane is close to making history with the most international caps. His latest match in England’s 3-0 win took him to 105 caps.Now, just 20 games separate him from the record 125 appearances.

Remarkable Journey of Harry Kane

At 31, Kane has already cemented his place as one of England’s greatest footballers. Beyond his impressive cap tally, he holds the record as England’s all-time leading goalscorer, showcasing his consistent performance and dedication. His leadership on the field has been crucial in England’s recent successes, including their qualification for the upcoming World Cup.

The Pursuit of Shilton’s Record

The benchmark of 125 international appearances was set by a legendary goalkeeper known for his remarkable shot-stopping abilities. Harry Kane’s ambition to surpass this record highlights his unwavering commitment to the national team. With several international fixtures on the horizon, including Nations League matches and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, he has ample opportunities to achieve this milestone.

A New Era for England Football

England’s recent matches have ushered in a new phase, blending experienced players with emerging talent. The team’s latest victories have showcased a well-balanced squad, with young prospects making an impact. Harry Kane’s role as captain remains pivotal as he mentors the next generation.

As England prepares for the FIFA World Cup, Harry Kane’s pursuit of the most-capped player record adds an exciting narrative to the team’s journey. His experience and goal-scoring ability will be crucial assets as the team aims for international glory. Fans and analysts will closely watch as he nears the record for England’s most-capped player.

Harry Kane’s dedication and achievements continue to inspire, and his quest to set a new milestone exemplifies his enduring commitment to English football.

Football Match Ends in Violent Clash Among Rival Fans, Killing 100 | WATCH

December 2, 2024, 1:02 pm

Violent clashes erupted between rival football fans following a match in N’Zerekore, Guinea’s second-largest city, on Sunday. Reports suggest that around 100 people have died as a result of the violence. A video circulating on social media shows the intense confrontations between the fans.

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BREAKING: At least 100 people killed in clashes between rival fans at soccer match in N’zerekore, Guinea. – AFP
pic.twitter.com/BIOH6bU75H

— AZ Intel (@AZ_Intel_) December 1, 2024

According to an AFP report, one doctor in the city described the scenes as “massive violence” and noted that “bodies [were] lined up as far as the eye can see in the hospital,” with others found lying in the hallways. The morgue was reported to be at full capacity.

Another doctor mentioned that the death toll was in the “dozens.” Local media indicated that the match was part of a tournament organized in honor of Guinea’s junta leader, Mamadi Doumbouya, who took power following a coup in September 2021 and declared himself president.

N’Zerekore, located 570 kilometers (350 miles) from the capital Conakry, has a population of about 200,000 people.

Italy’s 1990 World Cup Hero Totò Schillaci Dies At 59

September 18, 2024, 7:16 pm

Former Italian striker Totò Schillaci, who played a pivotal role in securing Italy’s third-place finish in the 1990 World Cup, has died at the age of 59.

Schillaci, who had played for Juventus and Inter Milan, was hospitalized in Palermo last week. The hospital later confirmed that he was receiving treatment to stabilize his heartbeat. He had been diagnosed with colon cancer in 2022.

Schillaci was the leading scorer of the 1990 World Cup, which Italy hosted, netting six goals. His decisive goals included match-winners against Austria in the group stage, the Republic of Ireland in the quarter-finals, and England in the third-place playoff. He also gave Italy the lead in the semi-final against Argentina, though the game ultimately went to penalties.

Inter Milan honored his legacy, saying: “He made an entire nation dream during the Magic Nights of Italia 90. FC Internazionale Milan gathers around the Schillaci family for the passing of Totò.”

Schillaci began his professional career at Messina and concluded it in Japan with Júbilo Iwata. Outside the World Cup, he scored just once for Italy, ending his international career with 16 caps.

Juventus expressed their admiration, saying: “We immediately fell in love with Totò. With his desire, his story, his passion. We at Juve were lucky enough to get excited about him before, in that incredible summer of 1990, the whole of Italy did.”

Ronaldo’s ‘UR Cristiano’ Breaks YouTube Records: 50M Subscribers in Just 7 Days

August 28, 2024, 6:10 pm

Cristiano Ronaldo has once again made history, this time on YouTube. The football legend’s newly launched channel, ‘UR Cristiano,’ has become the fastest to cross the 50 million subscriber mark, reaching the milestone in just one week. This incredible achievement follows Ronaldo’s announcement of the channel’s launch on August 21st.

In just seven days, ‘UR Cristiano’ has shattered records, including being the fastest channel to reach 40 million subscribers, which it accomplished in just three days. The channel has also garnered an impressive 282,480,111 views and counting, making it one of the most successful debuts on the platform.

The 39-year-old football icon’s channel has captured the attention of millions, with its rapid growth reflecting Ronaldo’s unparalleled global influence. Within the first 90 minutes of its launch, the channel became the fastest ever to hit one million subscribers. Now, just a week later, it has become the fastest to surpass the 50 million mark.

Ronaldo’s success on YouTube is yet another testament to his magnetic appeal. As his fanbase continues to grow, the buzz surrounding his new venture shows no signs of slowing down.

While Ronaldo edges closer to retirement, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is already planning for life after football. In a recent interview with NOW, Ronaldo addressed speculation about a potential coaching career, saying, “It’s very difficult to think that I will be a manager one day. In my mind, I’m not considering to be the head coach of any football team. I don’t even think about it. Probably I see my future doing things out of football.”

These comments highlight Ronaldo’s desire to explore new avenues outside the sport that has defined his career. With the success of his YouTube channel, it seems he is already laying the groundwork for his next chapter.

How much money has Cristiano Ronaldo earned from YouTube?

Ronaldo’s YouTube success isn’t just about subscriber numbers; it’s also translating into substantial earnings. With YouTube typically paying around $6 for every 1,000 views, the ad revenue from his channel could range between $1.2 million and $6 million, depending on various factors such as viewer engagement and geographic location.

As Ronaldo continues to break records both on and off the field, his latest venture into YouTube is proving to be yet another successful chapter in his illustrious career.

Watch: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Brilliant Free-Kick Shocks Goalkeeper

August 28, 2024, 9:57 am

In a thrilling Saudi Pro League match on Tuesday, Cristiano Ronaldo showcased his legendary prowess with a breathtaking free-kick that led his team, Al-Nassr, to a 4-1 victory over Al-Feiha. This remarkable goal not only delighted fans but also marked a significant milestone for the Portuguese superstar, bringing his career tally to 899 goals.

A Precision-Driven Performance

Ronaldo, renowned for his powerful strikes, opted for a more refined approach this time. Known for his previous struggles with free-kicks in recent years, Ronaldo displayed impeccable placement and precision. The 39-year-old’s measured execution left Al-Feiha’s goalkeeper Abdulraouf Al-Duqayl stunned, as Ronaldo netted his 64th career free-kick. This strike also added to his tally of 53 free-kick goals scored in club football, putting him just one behind his long-time rival Lionel Messi.

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Make sure you share this Freekick goal everywhere same way you shared his misses.

Cristiano Ronaldo, the Greatest to ever kick a ball! ? pic.twitter.com/cnlvP7Uoub

— LERRY (@_AsiwajuLerry) August 27, 2024

OMFG THIS ANGLE OF RONALDO FREEKICK ?

pic.twitter.com/bFXjlPGXho

— fan (@NoodleHairCR7) August 27, 2024

Approaching the 900-Goal Milestone

The free-kick goal represents Ronaldo’s 899th career goal, inching him closer to the historic 900-goal mark. With 130 international goals to his name, Ronaldo remains at the pinnacle of global football scoring. His next target, the 1,000-goal milestone, remains a challenging yet tantalizing prospect. Ronaldo recently spoke about this goal, acknowledging the physical and mental demands it will entail.

Future Aspirations and Legacy

Despite the challenges ahead, Ronaldo is optimistic about reaching the 1,000-goal landmark. Reflecting on his career, he expressed pride in maintaining a high level of performance over the past 20 years. “It’s going to be pretty tough, but it’s about seeing how I am mentally and physically,” Ronaldo commented. “If I reach 1,000 goals, it will be a testament to a remarkable career.”

Al-Nassr’s Dominant Win

Ronaldo’s exceptional free-kick contributed significantly to Al-Nassr’s commanding 4-1 win. His performance was a testament to his enduring skill and determination, ensuring that he remains a pivotal figure in the football world as he continues to break records and inspire the next generation of players.

Football And Other Sports Kick Off Early At 2024 Paris Olympics

July 25, 2024, 6:47 pm

Since the Barcelona 1992 Games, football has begun before the official opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics. This tradition continued at the 2024 Olympics in Paris, where football matches kicked off on July 24. The tournament featured games such as Argentina versus Spain, which sparked controversy when Morocco fans stormed the field after a disputed goal. Despite this, Morocco claimed a 2-1 victory over Argentina.

Other sports like archery, handball, and rugby sevens also started early in Paris. Archery, held at Invalides near the River Seine where the opening ceremony will take place, kicked off India’s participation. Handball and rugby sevens began earlier than usual to streamline the competition schedule. Handball matches for women, for example, started a day before the official opening to allow shared use of venues with other sports like athletics and weightlifting.

These adjustments in scheduling aim to ensure smooth organization and provide ample recovery time for athletes during the Summer Games.

Watch: Messi’s Tears Turn to Joy as Argentina Clinch Copa America Title

July 15, 2024, 12:13 pm

Lionel Messi experienced a rollercoaster of emotions during Argentina’s victorious Copa America 2024 campaign. Initially devastated by an injury that forced him off during the final against Colombia, Messi was seen in tears on the sidelines.

However, within an hour, his anguish transformed into elation as Argentina clinched a hard-fought 1-0 victory in extra time, securing their 16th Copa America title and surpassing Uruguay as the most successful team in the tournament’s history.

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The match itself was tense, delayed by crowd issues, and remained deadlocked until substitute Lautaro Martinez broke through in the 112th minute with a precise finish past Colombia’s goalkeeper. This decisive goal ignited jubilant scenes among Argentine fans, while Colombia’s efforts to equalize in the remaining minutes fell short, ending their impressive 28-match unbeaten streak.

Messi, despite still visibly affected by his injury, joined his teammates in exuberant celebrations, marking a poignant moment as he possibly concluded his international career on a high note.

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Argentina’s triumph adds to their recent successes at the 2022 World Cup and the 2021 Copa America, underscoring their dominance in South American football.

Euro Cup 2024 Final, Spain vs England: Harry Kane’s Trophy Drought Continues

July 15, 2024, 4:04 am

The Euro 2024 final in Berlin saw Spain clinch their fourth European Championship title with a 2-1 victory over England. It was a night of mixed emotions, especially for England’s captain, Harry Kane, whose performance and subsequent substitution in the 61st minute marked a poignant end to his summer.

Kane’s removal of his captain’s armband and substitution for Ollie Watkins was a significant moment, reflecting both the personal and collective struggles of the England team. As Spain celebrated their victory, Kane stood in the technical area, visibly processing the disappointment of falling short yet again. His hopes of ending his personal trophy drought and leading England to glory were dashed as Spain’s superior performance dominated the match.

Despite Cole Palmer’s equaliser for England, Mikel Oyarzabal’s late winner for Spain sealed the match, leaving England outclassed by Luis de la Fuente’s side. Kane’s early substitution highlighted England’s need for fresh energy, and Watkins’ and Palmer’s contributions provided a glimpse into the potential future of the team.

England’s journey to the final was marked by tactical decisions from Gareth Southgate, including the bold move of starting Luke Shaw after a long injury hiatus. However, the match underscored the ongoing issues in the squad, with Kane struggling to make an impact and the team appearing disjointed at crucial moments.

As England’s bus arrived at Olympiastadion, Kane’s determination was evident as he led the team onto the field for their pre-match walkabout. However, the match itself told a different story. Spain’s players, already mingling on the pitch, exuded confidence, while Kane and his teammates faced an uphill battle.

Throughout the match, Spain’s tactical superiority and relentless pressure kept England on the back foot. Kane’s yellow card for a foul on Aymeric Laporte and his lack of significant touches highlighted his difficult night. England’s best chances came from brief moments of aggression, but Spain’s organized defence and efficient counter-attacks proved too much for them.

The turning point came when Nico Williams scored the opener for Spain, capitalizing on a lapse in England’s defence. The subsequent chants for Watkins from England’s supporters and Southgate’s quick decision to bring him on emphasized the urgency for change.

Despite a late equalizer from Palmer, Spain’s composure and skill saw them through to victory, with Oyarzabal’s goal cementing their win. The final whistle brought contrasting scenes of joy for Spain and despair for England, with Kane’s golden boot recognition providing little consolation for the broader disappointment.

In the aftermath, England must reflect on their journey and its performance in the final, acknowledging the need for continued growth and adaptation. For Kane, the night in Berlin will be a reminder of the challenges and heartaches of international football, even as he remains a pivotal figure in England’s future endeavours.

The Downfall Of FC Barcelona: A Once Great Football Club, Now In Ruins

June 11, 2024, 2:12 pm

The origins of Barcelona’s financial woes can be traced back to 2010, a year that marked the end of Joan Laporta’s presidency due to term limits.

Rosell’s Presidency Tenure

The end of Joan Laporta’s presidency brought in Rosell. While Laporta was essentially taking suggestions from Cruyff and delegating them to the appropriate club members, one of the first things Rosell did was strip Cruyff of his title as the honorary president.

Rosell’s tenure was marred by controversy and alleged corruption, particularly surrounding Neymar’s transfer, which was partially financed by the dubious sale of Thiago Alcântara to Bayern Munich. Thiago’s contract included a €90 million release clause that would plummet to €18 million if he didn’t play a certain number of games. Strangely, despite his strong performances, Thiago was sidelined enough to trigger this lower release clause, during a period when manager Tito Vilanova was battling cancer. It’s speculated that Rosell influenced assistant manager Jordi Roura to bench Thiago, allowing the club to profit and shifting blame onto the player, who subsequently left for Bayern.

Rosell eventually resigned amidst the Neymar scandal, paving the way for his deputy, Josep Maria Bartomeu.

Bartomeu’s Presidency Tenure

Initially, Bartomeu enjoyed success, highlighted by Barcelona’s treble-winning season with the formidable Messi-Suárez-Neymar (MSN) trio under Luis Enrique. However, his administration’s deeper issues soon surfaced. Critics argue that Bartomeu’s actions transcended mere incompetence, suggesting ulterior motives possibly tied to his past with RCD Espanyol.

Under Bartomeu, Barcelona engaged in a series of misguided signings and managerial appointments. High-profile acquisitions like Philippe Coutinho, Antoine Griezmann, and Ousmane Dembélé failed to meet expectations, leading to substantial financial losses. Notably, the club overlooked Kylian Mbappé in favor of Dembélé, stating the former played for himself while the latter played for the team. Misguided attempts to replace club legends like Iniesta with ill-fitting players like Coutinho further strained the budget. The managerial choices, from Ernesto Valverde’s dependence on individual brilliance to Quique Setién’s lackluster tenure, only exacerbated the club’s decline.

Furthermore, Bartomeu’s administration allegedly engaged in nefarious activities, including hiring a media company to slander players and their families. The wage structure became unsustainable, with exorbitant salaries awarded under the guise of loyalty, severely limiting the club’s financial flexibility.

The socios, Barcelona’s voting members, eventually recognized the mismanagement, leading to Bartomeu’s resignation and Laporta’s return.

Laporta’s Second Presidency Tenure

Everype thought that with Laporta’s return, he would bring back the magic of his first tenure , however, without Cruyff’s influence, Laporta’s leadership mirrored the mistakes of his predecessor, with poor signings and managerial choices continuing to plague the club. Laporta’s faith in club legend Xavi as manager, despite better options being available, highlighted the ongoing lack of strategic vision.

The Financial Pressures

Barcelona’s financial mismanagement culminated in a bloated wage bill and massive debt, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on revenue streams. By 2021, the debt had soared past €1 billion, compelling the club to offload high-earning players at reduced prices. Financial constraints prevented the renewal of Lionel Messi’s contract under La Liga’s salary cap, resulting in his departure to Paris Saint-Germain.

The combination of excessive salaries, costly transfers, and chronic mismanagement plunged Barcelona into severe financial distress. This situation significantly undermined the club’s ability to retain top talent and maintain its competitive edge, with former financial advisor Marc Ciria estimating the debt could escalate to €3 billion.

Overall, the mismanagement of the Club and its funds has led to Barcelona’s financial ruin and further, its downfall as a club.

Lionel Messi Calls Real Madrid ‘The Best Team in the World’

June 8, 2024, 3:23 am

Lionel Messi recently praised Real Madrid as the best club in the world, following their impressive 15th UEFA Champions League title win. Messi’s comments came after Real Madrid secured a resounding victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium.

In an interview with InfoBae, Messi credited Real Madrid’s Champions League triumph under Carlo Ancelotti, asserting their status as the world’s top team. He highlighted Real Madrid’s impressive form throughout the season, culminating in their Champions League success.

Recapping the final match, both teams played a tactical first half, but Real Madrid dominated the second half, securing victory with goals from Dani Carvajal and Vinicius Junior. Despite facing injury challenges, Real Madrid showcased their quality, finishing the La Liga season with 95 points and winning their 36th league title.

Jude Bellingham’s contributions were significant for Real Madrid, emerging as their top scorer with 19 goals, while Vinicius Junior also played a pivotal role with 16 goals and five assists.

Meanwhile, Messi himself had a productive season with Inter Miami in the MLS, scoring 12 goals in 12 matches after his surprising move from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023. As an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Messi’s impact continued to be felt on the field even in the MLS.

France Soccer Captain Kylian Mbappe Leaves Paris Saint Germain, Joins Real Madrid

June 4, 2024, 5:26 am

The long-standing speculation surrounding the future of France soccer captain Kylian Mbappe finally came to an end as he joined Spanish club Real Madrid on a five-year contract as a free agent. The 25-year-old, who was a crucial part of the French national team’s World Cup-winning squad, made the move from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to Madrid.

Real Madrid confirmed the signing in an official statement, announcing Mbappe’s arrival on a five-season deal. The move comes shortly after Madrid secured their 15th European Cup title with a 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final.

Expressing his excitement about joining Real Madrid, Mbappe described it as a dream come true. He expressed gratitude to the club’s supporters and eagerly anticipated representing Los Blancos.

Mbappe’s journey to Real Madrid follows his successful stint at PSG, where he played 290 matches and scored 243 goals since joining from AS Monaco in 2017. Despite his impressive performances, Mbappe openly admitted his desire to play for Real Madrid, a dream he has harboured for years.

Throughout the years, Real Madrid had persistently pursued Mbappe, notably making a significant offer of 220 million Euros in 2021, which PSG declined. However, with his contract expiring, Mbappe seized the opportunity to make his dream move to the Spanish capital.

Game For Global Footprint with Football: Sobha Realty

May 27, 2024, 4:25 am

Recently an alliance got inked between English Premier League giant Arsenal and Dubai’s leading luxury real estate developer, Sobha Realty. The question that dodged many minds was why this collaboration? What could be the connection between a luxury real estate developer and a top football premier league team? The answer is the audience …Both are expensive affairs catering to the same high profile UHNIs or ultra-high net worth individuals, albeit across geographies.

For Sobha, it means expanding its global footprint and helping the Sobha brand become more recognisable amongst its target audiences around the world. The group has expansion plans for the US market and is also wooing the UK investors for its ambitious Dubai Hartland project, with a newly established Sobha global studio. This studio covering an area of 4,800 sq.ft is a marketing/branding office showcasing Sobha Realty’s projects in Dubai to the UK investor and is located in the heart of London in the prestigious Mayfair district. Setting up an office in London is one of the many things the group is doing to make its presence felt in the international markets. Says an official spokesperson from the group- “Sobha Realty is now principal partner to Arsenal football club and the official training kit sleeve partner for the Arsenal Club’s Men and Women teams. Its branding has become a familiar sight across the Emirates stadium and Meadow Park, the home of Arsenal’s women’s team. Most importantly, and even the Arsenal training ground, London Colney, has been renamed to be called Sobha Realty Training Centre.”

Eduardo Cesar Daud Gaspar, Arsenal’s Sporting Director, emphasized the multifaceted role of the training center, not only as a place for rigorous training but also as a hub for collaboration, learning, and relaxation.

For Arsenal, this partnership will boost its financial standing among Premier League elites. It will also see Arsenal and Sobha Realty collaborate on initiatives to develop the sport industry in Dubai and beyond. This includes hosting football experiences, including youth football clinics, tournaments, and seminars. According to the Deloitte Football Money League report for the 2022-23 season, Arsenal is striving to narrow the financial gap with its Premier League counterparts, having generated €195 million in commercial revenue, trailing behind clubs like Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Tottenham, and Chelsea. It started in September 2023, when Sobha secured the naming rights to a matchday hospitality suite at Emirates Stadium.

An industry insider says- “This was a partnership almost waiting to happen. On the one hand there was Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Airways and Manchester City Partnership (2009) and on the other hand, Dubai’s Emirates and Arsenal partnership which is the longest-running front-of-shirt sponsorship since July 2006 in Premier League history. For Sobha, being a Dubai based brand, it was only logical thing to side with Arsenal. There is always an interesting ‘Dubai versus Abu Dhabi’ competition at play.”

Ravi Menon, Sobha Realty Co-chairman, highlighted shared values, stating, “Sobha Realty is thrilled to partner with Arsenal. Our collaboration signifies a convergence of values, where meticulous detail meets football excellence.” Menon emphasised their commitment to excellence and growth, saying, “This partnership underscores our commitment to high standards, sustainable economic growth, and international market access. We anticipate a successful future with Arsenal.” Sobha Realty was established in 1976 as an interior decoration firm in Oman by PNC Menon — a visionary leader in the space. The real estate group has grown its presence world-over with developments and investments in the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Brunei, and India.

Brazil To Host FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027

May 18, 2024, 7:40 am

At the 74th FIFA Congress in Bangkok, Thailand, Brazil was declared the host country for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, marking the first time a South American nation will host the tournament. This decision followed the most extensive bidding process in the history of the FIFA Women’s World Cup and was determined through an open vote at the FIFA Congress for the first time. Brazil secured 119 votes, surpassing the joint bid of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, which received 78 votes.

From Spraying Perfume on His Jersey to Scripting Unforgettable Moment: Chhetri Looks Back at 19-Year Football Journey

May 16, 2024, 2:23 pm

Sunil Chhetri, the celebrated Indian footballer, recently announced his retirement, expressing his deep appreciation for his time with the national team. Renowned for elevating Indian football standards, Chhetri has been an inspiration both nationally and internationally.

Through a heartfelt social media post, he revealed his decision to don the national jersey one last time in a match against Kuwait on June 6, marking the end of his remarkable 19-year-long career. Reflecting on his journey, Chhetri fondly recalled his debut for the national team, a moment filled with immense joy and pride.

I'd like to say something… pic.twitter.com/xwXbDi95WV

— Sunil Chhetri (@chetrisunil11) May 16, 2024

His decision to retire was made after much contemplation, devoid of external influence, as he embraced a flood of memories from his illustrious career. Chhetri shared the emotional moment of informing his family about his retirement, witnessing their tearful reactions. Despite bidding farewell to international football, his passion for the game remains unwavering.

Chhetri’s legacy is deeply ingrained in Indian football history, highlighted by numerous accolades including the Arjuna Award, Padma Shri, and Khel Ratna Award. With an impressive record of 94 goals in 150 matches, he stands as one of the most distinguished footballers, revered alongside global icons Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Netizens Mourn the Loss of Abhradeep Saha aka Angry Rantman

April 18, 2024, 2:37 pm

Popular YouTuber Abhradeep Saha, also known as Angry Rantman, passed away on Wednesday, as confirmed by his family through a Facebook post announcing his “sad and untimely” demise. Netizens expressed condolences to his family with heartfelt messages on the post.

The 27-year-old YouTuber, a passionate supporter of Chelsea Football Club, made a significant impact within online football communities. His fervent rants and insightful analyses earned him a devoted following.

In remembrance, the Saha family highlighted Abhradeep’s influence on millions through his honesty, humor, and unwavering spirit, as he advocated for change “one rant at a time.”

No details regarding the cause of Angry Rantman’s death were provided by the family.

In the post, his family wrote: “With profound grief and sorrow, we hereby declare the sad and untimely demise of Abhradeep Saha AKA #AngryRantman today at 10:18 hrs IST. He touched the lives of millions with his Honesty, humour and unwavering spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”

They added on to say, “As we mourn his loss, let us remember the joy he brought to our lives and hold on to the cherished memories we share together. Inspiring change one rant at a time.”

On the official YouTube channel of Angry Rantman, comments from the community mentioned that he had recently undergone surgery, and he was in a critical condition, requiring life support.

Bengaluru FC’s official X account (formerly Twitter) pays homage to the YouTuber, stating that Abhradeep’s passion for football was limitless.

With a photo of him, they wrote, “The BFC family is saddened to learn about the passing of #IndianFootball faithful Abhradeep Saha. A West Block Blue through and through, Abhradeep’s love for the game knew no bounds and the passion in his rants will be missed. Rest in peace. #WeAreBFC #ForeverBlue.”

“RIP Abhradeep Saha, aka Angry Rantman. His rants were iconic to us all, but I think fewer people know just how kind and generous he was beyond his content. Proper Chelsea fan, and a genuinely phenomenal and brilliant human being,” a fan wrote.

AR Rahman’s motivational song ‘Team India’ from ‘Maidaan’ out now

March 28, 2024, 11:41 am

Renowned music composer AR Rahman made an appearance at the Times Now Summit 2024 in Delhi, where he launched the latest track from the sports biopic ‘Maidaan,’ titled ‘Team India,’ inspired by the life of Syed Abdul Rahim, portrayed by Ajay Devgn.

During the summit, Rahman unveiled the first song from the sports biopic ‘Maidaan,’ produced by Boney Kapoor and starring Ajay Devgn as the lead, focusing on the life of Syed Abdul Rahim, the revered coach of the Indian national football team. Rahman described the song ‘Team India’ as a stirring sports anthem evoking feelings of patriotism.

Watch here:

Rahman shared that the movie and its song pay homage to the essence of football and the character portrayed by Devgn. He mentioned that it took four attempts to finalize the song, unlike the previous ones composed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Additionally, Rahman highlighted that the film ‘Maidaan,’ produced by Boney Kapoor, goes beyond being just a sports movie, as it delves into themes of humanity and romance, featuring Priyamani in a significant role as Syed Abdul Rahim’s wife. The much-awaited sports drama is set to release on April 10, starring Devgn, Priyamani, Gajraj Rao, and Rudranil Ghosh. Initially, Keerthi Suresh was cast opposite Devgn, but Priyamani took over the role of Runa.

Based on a true story, ‘Maidaan’ is directed by Amit Ravindernath Sharma and also features Priyamani and Gajraj Rao along with Bengali actor Rudranil Ghosh in pivotal roles. The film features a musical score by Oscar-winner AR Rahman.

In 2020, producer Boney Kapoor had to dismantle the film set due to the lockdown imposed to curb the coronavirus pandemic. In May 2021, the set of ‘Maidaan’ was destroyed by Cyclone Tauktae. Finally, the movie is all set to be released in theaters in April 2024.

Haaland smashes all five goals for Manchester City in FA Cup to make history

February 28, 2024, 6:14 pm

Norwegian star footballer Erling Haaland scored five goals against Luton Town FC in the FA Cup and made history as he became the first Manchester City player to score five goals twice. The 23-year-old smashed a first-half hat trick to destroy the hopes of Luton Town FC Fans early in the game before going on to score two more goals in the second half to register a massive win.

Luton Town FC did show some fighting with Jordan Clark finding the top corner to make a comeback before the first half and later going on to score one more, just at the start of the second half, to make it 3-2.

However, Luton Town FC couldn’t stage a stronger comeback and eventually went on to lose by 6-2 to Manchester City as Haaland scored five goals and made history at Kenilworth Road taking Manchester City to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup on Tuesday.

Haaland had only scored five goals in the last eleven appearances for Manchester City, courtesy of a foot injury but he silenced all his critics emphatically with his performance on Tuesday.

India announces 26-Member Squad for AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023

December 30, 2023, 6:32 pm

The head coach of the India senior men’s team, Igor Stimac, has announced the 26-member squad for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023. The team, known as The Blue Tigers, will be arriving in Doha later today to participate in their fifth appearance in the Asian Cup.

India’s first match in Group B will be against Australia on January 13 at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan. They will then face Uzbekistan on January 18 at the same venue. The team will later move to the Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor to take on Syria on January 23.

There were some surprising selections in the squad, including the inclusion of midfielder Sahal Abdul Samad, who had missed the past month due to injury. Additionally, central midfielder Apuiad, who was dropped from the national team due to disciplinary issues, has managed to find his place in the squad.

There were some surprising selections in the squad, with midfielder Sahal Abdul Samad, who had missed the past month due to injury, being included. Additionally, central midfielder Apuiad, who was dropped from the national team due to disciplinary issues, has also managed to find his place in the squad.

Stimac, sharing the areas he would like to improve upon ahead of the tournament, stated, “We are focusing on improving defensive compactness, offensive transitions, and set pieces, primarily. It is crucial for us to work on man-marking inside the box as I was not satisfied with that aspect of our game. In recent matches, we have conceded some unnecessary goals inside the box.”

“All these players possess similar footballing abilities. We are a team, a family. However, regardless of talent, character is essential for achieving success. Our opponents in all three games are technically strong, physically robust, and possess great speed. Therefore, our approach to these matches will not differ significantly. We need to assess the current fitness level of our players and determine how much progress we can make in the next two weeks,” added Stimac.

The Blue Tigers have had their fair share of experience competing in Qatar, having played four of their 2022 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers matches there, including two against the hosts. Additionally, Sunil Chhetri and Gurpreet Singh Sandhu were part of the Indian squad at the 2011 AFC Asian Cup, which was also held in Qatar. Chhetri showcased his skills by scoring a goal each against Bahrain and South Korea.

“I am eagerly anticipating the presence of our Indian fans in Doha. They showed tremendous support for the Indian team during the qualifiers, and this played a significant role in our impressive performances against Qatar. I am well aware that our boys will receive massive support, and I hope we can repay them by achieving positive results and celebrating together,” expressed Stimac.

India’s 26-member squad for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023
Goalkeepers: Amrinder Singh, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Vishal Kaith.
Defenders: Akash Mishra, Lalchungnunga, Mehtab Singh, Nikhil Poojary, Pritam Kotal, Rahul Bheke, Sandesh Jhingan, Subhasish Bose.
Midfielders: Anirudh Thapa, Brandon Fernandes, Deepak Tangri, Lalengmawia Ralte, Liston Colaco, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Sahal Abdul Samad, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Udanta Singh.
Forwards: Ishan Pandita, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh, Rahul Kannoly Praveen, Sunil Chhetri, Vikram Partap Singh.

Lionel Messi’s 2022 FIFA World Cup Jerseys Fetch Record ₹65 Crore at Sotheby’s Auction

December 16, 2023, 10:31 am

Six jerseys worn by soccer maestro Lionel Messi during Argentina’s victorious stint in the 2022 FIFA World Cup have been sold for a whopping ₹65 crore at a Sotheby’s auction. The final bid, totalling $7.8 million, marks the highest price achieved for sports memorabilia this year, according to Sotheby’s. Each jersey holds historic significance, having been worn by Messi in the first half of various games during Argentina’s triumphant World Cup campaign in Qatar.

Argentina secured the championship by defeating France in a thrilling penalty shootout after a 3-3 draw in the final, clinching its third World Cup title. The victory, where Messi contributed two of Argentina’s three goals, stands as a defining moment in the career of one of football’s all-time greats. Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s head of modern collectables, described the shirts as tangible reminders of a pivotal moment in sports history, intimately connected to Messi’s illustrious career.

Displayed at Sotheby’s New York headquarters during a two-week online auction that concluded on Thursday, the jerseys attracted considerable attention. Although details about the winning bidder remain undisclosed, a portion of the auction proceeds will be dedicated to the UNICAS Project. Led by Sant Joan de Déu Barcelona Children’s Hospital and supported by the Leo Messi Foundation, the initiative aims to aid children suffering from rare diseases.

Lionel Messi, currently plying his trade for Inter Miami in the MLS, boasts a storied 17-year career at Barcelona and has clinched the Ballon d’Or a record eight times. While Sotheby’s had anticipated the Messi jerseys might set an auction record for game-worn sports memorabilia, they fell short of surpassing Michael Jordan’s 1998 NBA Finals jersey. The latter remains the reigning champion with a record-setting sale of $10.1 million at a Sotheby’s auction in New York last year.

??? The bidding war for six of Lionel Messi’s World Cup match-worn jerseys has commenced and will run until December 14, with an initial bid already reaching $5.2 million. pic.twitter.com/UTyPhVQ0va

— Leo Messi ? Fan Club (@WeAreMessi) November 30, 2023

Ronaldo achieved 50 goals in 2023 and says there is still room for more!

December 12, 2023, 3:07 pm

During Monday’s King’s Cup match between Al Nassr and Al Shabab, Portuguese football sensation Cristiano Ronaldo hit the 50 goal milestone in 2023, continuing his incredible goal scoring record.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner scored his team’s fifth goal in the 74th minute of the King’s Cup quarterfinal encounter, helping them defeat Al Shabab 5-2.

To reach the milestone, the 38-year-old sent a right-footed shot from the center of the box into the right bottom corner. On Monday, though, the Riyadh-based team won easily since they had no difficulties throughout the match.

After reaching this milestone, CR7 congratulated his family, friends, and teammates on his official Instagram account for their unwavering support.

The Portuguese sensation expressed optimism and stated that more goals would be scored this year.

“Great victory and I’m thrilled to announce my 50th goal in 2023, all thanks to the unwavering support of my teammates, fans, and my family! There’s still room for a few more this year,” Ronaldo wrote on Instagram.

Ronaldo’s Remarkable Gesture After Penalty Awarded, Amazes the Internet – Must See Video

November 28, 2023, 2:20 pm

Football icon Cristiano Ronaldo showcased an exemplary act of sportsmanship during Al Nassr’s AFC Champions League clash against Persepolis, stunning fans worldwide by urging the referee to overturn his own penalty decision.

Ronaldo, known for his goal-scoring ability, put on a commendable performance on the field as Al Nassr faced Persepolis. After appearing to go down in the penalty box and prompting the referee to award a penalty to his team, the Portuguese maestro immediately approached the official, pleading with him to reconsider the decision.

Ronaldo asks THE referee to not award him a penalty.

GOAT for a reason. #Ronaldo?
.
.#AlNassrPersepolis #afcclonfancode pic.twitter.com/lDldzA74Fd

— FanCode (@FanCode) November 27, 2023

Despite initially acknowledging Al Nassr’s penalty claim, Ronaldo graciously admitted to the referee that no foul had occurred, prompting the official to retract the penalty decision after consulting VAR.

During the match, Persepolis had a goal disallowed, and despite Ronaldo’s attempts inside the opposition’s box, the encounter ended goalless. The Nassr captain, aged 38, seemed to sustain a neck injury in the second half after a collision with Beiranvand, the Persepolis goalkeeper.

Ronaldo, who was substituted after 77 minutes, displayed signs of discomfort following the incident. Despite the draw against Persepolis, Al Nassr secured a spot in the Asian Champions League knockout stage, marking their progression with the Saudi Arabian side previously winning all four Group E matches.

Al Nassr’s tenacious performance, despite playing with only ten players for the majority of the game, ensured their progression to the last 16, setting the stage for a crucial match against arch-rivals Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League on Friday.

India kicks off Intercontinental Cup with 2-0 win over Mongolia

June 10, 2023, 4:33 pm

The Indian senior men’s team kicked off their Intercontinental Cup 2023 campaign with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Mongolia on Friday at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. In what was the Blue Tigers’ first-ever match in Odisha in a competitive meet, they wasted no time stamping their authority, with Sahal finding the net inside two minutes before Lallianzuala Chhangte doubled the lead in the 14th minute. Lebanon had earlier beaten Vanuatu 3-1 in the opening game of the four-nation tournament and thus led the standings on goals scored after the first matchday.

The Blue Tigers, beginning their bid to reclaim the Intercontinental Cup title they last won in 2018, started off in blistering fashion and took the lead after Anirudh Thapa was set free in acres of space down the right wing. He sent a menacing low ball into the box, which Mongolian goalkeeper Enkhtaivan Munkh-Erdene could only palm into the way of Sahal Abdul Samad. The 26-year-old swung it the first time with his left foot to score his third goal in the blue of India.

Thapa would be the architect of the second goal too, just 12 minutes later, this time from a dead ball situation. His right-swinging corner was met with a towering downward header from Sandesh Jhingan, which was cleared off the line by Batbold Baljinnyam. The rebound hit Jhingan again before Chhangte, almost hiding in plain sight, pounced on the ball in a flash, volleying it into the net with the outside of his left boot. It was Chhangte’s first goal for India since his strike against DPR Korea in the 2019 Intercontinental Cup in Ahmedabad.

Igor Stimac’s men dominated the middle third and the wide areas throughout the game, with Udanta and Chhangte’s pace and the well-oiled midfield engines of Thapa, Sahal, and Apuia causing Mongolia’s defence major problems. The latter two had attempts from the edge of the area that narrowly fizzed over the crossbar.

Despite India’s dominance in the first half, they were not left untested in defence. Anwar Ali made an excellent last-ditch challenge to sweep the ball off the feet of Baljinnyam Batmunkh in one of Mongolia’s rare forays into the Indian box.

The second half saw less goalmouth action and more meticulous play from the Blue Tigers as their East Asian opponents sat back and defended in numbers. Thapa, however, continued to tantalise the Mongolian defence with his set-piece deliveries. In the 83rd minute, another one of his right-footed crosses was met with a header from substitute Rohit Kumar, which unfortunately crashed against the crossbar.

Sergio Ramos to follow Messi’s footsteps, quitting PSG this summer

June 3, 2023, 4:30 pm

Spanish defender Sergio Ramos announced on Saturday that he will play his final game for Paris Saint-Germain on Sunday against Clermont Foot. The veteran centre-back will follow Lionel Messi out of the French club after his contract expires.

The 37-year-old defender took to Twitter to post a farewell message to the PSG fans for making him feel at home and to announce that on Sunday he will feature in the shades of purple for one last time. “Tomorrow will be a special day; tomorrow I will say goodbye to another stage of my life, goodbye to @PSG_espanol. I don’t know how many places you can feel at home, but without a doubt, PSG, its fans, and Paris have been one of them for me,” Ramos wrote in his tweet.

After spending the majority of his career in Madrid, Ramos embarked on a new journey and joined the French side in 2021. His initial career was plagued by injuries, and at one point in time, it felt like he would rarely have an opportunity to feature for his new club. In two seasons, Ramso featured for PSG on 44 occasions in Ligue 1, scoring three goals and registering a single assist.

He made his debut for the club in the UEFA Champions League in the 2022–23 season and made eight appearances. The French Giants made their way to the Round of 16, but their dream of clinching their first UCL title came to an end on a bitter note. They were knocked out by Bayern Munich with an aggregate score of 3-0.

The Spanish defender is not the only one who is leaving the PSG camp this summer. Along with him, the Argentinian talisman and his former rival in La Liga, Lionel Messi, are also going to play their last game on Sunday.

On 1 June, PSG boss Christophe Galtier confirmed that star striker Lionel Messi would be leaving the club in early June, adding that he had the privilege of “coaching the best player in the history of football”. Galtier said, “I had the privilege of coaching the best player in the history of football. It will be Leo’s last match at the Parc des Princes against Clermont.”

West Ham United’s players walk off field after racial slur

June 2, 2023, 4:57 pm

In a seven-a-side tournament held in North California, West Ham United players walked off the pitch after a Dallas United player was accused of using a racial slur.

The West Ham team managed by former Apprentice football club star Tom Skinner featured several former players such as Anton Ferdinand, Matt Jarvis, and Carlton Cole. In a high-tempered match, Dalla United were leading 2-0 before the game was stopped due to suspension. West Ham United’s Ferdinand could be heard saying he wanted to “set a precedent”.

A statement by the organisers said, “After conducting an investigation into the final moments of the match between West Ham United and Dallas United, we have concluded that Dallas United violated TST’s code of conduct. It further stated, “We have been in dialogue with leadership from both clubs, and we are all aligned that the best path forward is Dallas United withdrawing from the competition. All parties involved are united in wanting to make a statement against racial insensitivity.”

After being accused of wrongdoing, Dallas United decided to withdraw from the tournament. The club said that they would launch an internal investigation as soon as they confirmed their exit from the tournament.

The club statement read, “In light of the shadow cast by an opposing player’s accusation during tonight’s match, the Dallas United players unanimously decided to withdraw from the remainder of the competition. Our coaches and staff fully support the team’s decision.”

Ter Stegen on the brink of season clean sheets record

May 31, 2023, 4:43 pm

Barcelona’s goalkeeper Marc Andre ter Stegen is currently level at 26 clean sheets in a season with Deportivo goalkeeper Paco Liano, who set the record for most clean sheets in 1993/94.

Barcelona still has one game to play, which means Ter Stegen can break the record of Paco Liano. Stegen is also likely to win the Golden Glove Award. The golden glove award is given to a keeper who has kept the most clean sheets in a season, which means conceding the least number of goals. Barcelona will play their last league match against Celta Vigo on 4 June.

Barcelona and Ter Stegen have another record to break in their sights. Currently, they have matched the record of Chelsea for most clean sheets in a season by a team. In the 2004/05 season, Chelsea under Jose Mourinho and goalkeeper Petr Cech kept 25 clean sheets in a single season. Barcelona are currently level with that record and can even break it if they keep a clean sheet against Celta Vigo.

At Barcelona, Ter Stegen has won five La Liga titles, one Champions League, five Copa del Rey, one Club World Cup, one European Super Cup, and three Spanish Super Cups.
With Germany, he won the Confederations Cup in 2017 and the European Under-19 Championship in 2009.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen signed for FC Barcelona in the summer of 2014 from Borussia Monchengladbach. In his debut season for Barcelona in 2014/15, the goalkeeper played every game in the Champions League and had a leading role in the Copa del Rey, both of which Barca won.

The right-footed goalkeeper, in the 2021/22 season, surpassed 300 games for Barca, taking him into the top 5 on the all-time appearance list for foreign players. In 2017, Ter Stegen played an important role for Germany in the final of the Confederations Cup against Chile; he was named man of the match for his incredible performance. He was also part of the German squad for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.

Manchester City’s Serene Path to the Treble in English Football

May 25, 2023, 12:45 am

The treble is an exceptionally rare achievement in English football, so much so that prior to the 1999 Champions League final, Sir Alex Ferguson compared it to a journey to the moon when addressing his players at Camp Nou.
After Manchester United had clinched the Premier League trophy and the FA Cup in the preceding 10 days, positioning themselves to become the first English team to secure a treble, Sir Alex Ferguson’s inspiring words couldn’t negate the weariness of a long and demanding season. The Champions League final against Bayern Munich proved to be a daunting challenge, as the German side outperformed United for the majority of the match. However, in a thrilling turn of events during three minutes of stoppage time, Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer scored the crucial goals that etched Manchester United’s name in football history. It has been almost 25 years since Sir Alex Ferguson led Manchester United to a historic treble, and now Pep Guardiola and Manchester City find themselves in a similar position. With the Premier League title already secured, City has two crucial games standing between them and the treble: the FA Cup final against Manchester United on 3 June and the Champions League final against Inter Milan a week later on 10 June.
There is no denying that Manchester City’s run-in this season has been significantly smoother compared to Machester United’s experience in 1999. Under Guardiola’s guidance, City embarked on an impressive streak of 12 consecutive league victories, surpassing Arsenal to claim the top spot in the table. They also secured a convincing 3-0 victory against Sheffield United in the FA Cup semifinal and dominated Real Madrid with a resounding 4-0 win in the Champions League semifinal second leg.
In contrast, United faced more challenges during their treble-winning season. They encountered four draws in their last eight league games and had to secure a victory against Tottenham Hotspur on the final day to clinch the Premier League title. Their FA Cup semifinal against Arsenal required a replay, which saw Roy Keane being sent off and Peter Schmeichel saving a Dennis Bergkamp penalty. Additionally, United found themselves trailing 2-0 within the first 10 minutes of their Champions League semifinal second leg against Juventus.