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England international is back Jude Bellingham may have secured a multimillion euros move to Real Madrid but the midfielder is not so lucky in the love market after a breakup with his Ghanaian girlfriend.

Real Madrid’s summer signing Jude Bellingham is back in market searching for love.

Bellingham has broken up with his reported girlfriend Asantewa Chitty.

The 20-year-old was dating Asantewa, who is a Turkish-Ghanaian and an instagram model last summer.

Bellingham joins dating app
The relationship has hit the rocks with the Real new man spotted in a celebrity dating app in search of a new girlfriend, according to a report by The Sun.

His profile on the app noted that Bellingham was in London on a ‘visit from Madrid.’

After his move to LaLiga giants Real, the talented midfielder is focused on establishing himself at Los Blancos but also want to settle down.

“Jude is all about football, that’s his main focus,” The Sun added. “But he’s still keen to meet someone to settle down with. He’s been in London to see pals before the season heats up again. Jude is taking his time after the break-up.”

Bellingham’s move to Real Madrid

The English youngster became Britian’s most expensive player ever after a 115 million pounds move in the summer.


Bellingham has since put pen to paper on a six-year contract after swapping Germany for Spain.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/jude-bellingham-real-madrid-man-dating-app-in-search-of-love-after-breakup-with-ghanaian-girlfriend-2023070210352278947

First Lady of Nigeria, Remi Tinubu wants the Super Falcons to come back with the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup

Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, a Nigerian politician and current first lady of Nigeria, has given the Super Falcons the task of winning the FIFA Women's World Cup finals taking place in Australia and New Zealand.

Before the squad's departure on Sunday for the event, which begins on July 20 and ends on August 20, she delivered the charge on Saturday in Abuja while hosting the team for dinner.

She was represented by Dr. Betta Edu, the APC National Women Leader at the event.

Sen. Tinubu said that Nigeria's participation in the 9th FIFA Women's World Cup must be for the honorable goal of bringing the coveted cup home.

Remi Tinubu tells Super Falcons to win 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup
She encouraged the Super Falcons to work hard so they could live up to Nigerians' expectations while drumming up support for the team and pointing out how important a unifying sport was for the nation.

The statement said, “It is important that you remain committed by playing together as a team; no one should think that she’s better player than the other.

“It is only when you play as a team that you can record success. It is my expectation that this time, you will surpass your previous efforts.

“I am sure that 99.9 per cent of Nigerians will stay glued to their television sets to watch you. Please try your best to bring the cup home.”

While expressing her faith in the ability and pedigree of the team to excel at the Mundial, the first lady promised to receive the team herself when they bring the cup home.

NFF President thanks Remi Tinubu for Super Falcons support
Earlier, Alhaji Ibrahim Gashua, the president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for aiding the squad.

“Football remains the biggest unifier across the world; it has helped to shore up our national image while helping to reduce criminal tendencies among the youth

“I want to encourage the coaches to be more committed because you will be accountable for the outing.”

Mr. Philip Shuaibu, the deputy governor of Edo, prominent sports officials, and diplomats were among the dignitaries that attended the meal.

Only seven national teams, including the Nigerian women's national soccer team, have participated in every competition since the competition's inception in 1991

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/remi-tinubu-first-lady-charges-super-falcons-to-win-2023-fifa-womens-world-cup-2023070210545007425

Former Bayern Munich and Bordeaux star Gernot Rohr was a former coach of the Nigeria National football team, Super Eagles for five years.

Former Super Eagles manager Gernot Rohr has reflected on an encounter with Nigerian Sports Minister Sunday Dare during his time in Nigeria.

Rohr spent five years as the coach of Nigeria and led the Super Eagles to a third place finish at the 2019 AFCON.

The former Bundesliga star looked back on his time with the African giant during an interview with his former club Bayern Munich.

Rohr shades Dare
On the occasion of his 70th birthday, Rohr spoke to Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich.

Speaking during the interview, Rohr, who is the current coach of Benin Republic, remembered a bizarre encounter with Nigerian Sports Minister Sunday Dare in the Super Eagles camp.

Two years ago in Nigeria, suddenly the minister of sport turned up at training with 40-50 journalists and wanted to join in the football,” Rohr told Bayern Munich website after he was asked about his experiences as a coach in Africa.

“I was perplexed. My assistant said we had to let him join in, otherwise we'd all be gone tomorrow. Without further ado, we added a circle game for him and everything was fine.”

Minister trains with Super Eagles
The incident happened during the team’s preparation for a crucial AFCON 2021 qualifiers against Sierra Leone.

Minister of Sports, Dare, in the company of then NFF President, Amaju Pinnick, joined the Super Eagles in training at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin

It as a strange sight that trended for days back in November 12, 2020.

Rohr was subsequently sacked before the AFCON 2021 in Cameroon, with former Super Eagles star Augustine Eguavoen taking the team to Cameroon for the tourney.


Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/super-eagles-ex-coach-gernot-rohr-throws-serious-shades-at-sports-minister-sunday-dare-2023070212013681917

The Cameroon football legend is yet to acknowledge the paternity of his daughter, Erika Rosario.
Cameroon football legend Samuel Eto’o recently made the headlines over his paternity issues.

The former Barcelona, Chelsea and Inter striker has reportedly been sued by his daughter Erika do Rosario Nieves for allegedly neglecting his duties as a father.

In what has been a constant back and forth between the FECAFOOT president and his daughter, 'El Diario de Sevilla' revealed this week, that Erika and her representatives are seeking punishment for Samuel Eto’o’s failure to comply with the court’s order stating that the 42-year-old Cameroon legend should pay her monthly upkeep of £1,167.

This article reviews the profile of Erika do Rosario Nieves, the estranged daughter of Samuel Eto’o.

Erika Nieves: 3 things to know about the legal battle between Samuel Eto’o and his daughter
1. Who is Erika Nieves?

As mentioned earlier, Erica do Rosario Nieves is the daughter of Cameroon football legend Samuel Eto’o (father) and a Spanish woman named Adileusa do Rosario (mother).

She was born in 1999 in the Alarcón Foundation hospital in Madrid

The Sun reports that Erika’s mum, Adileusa, was said to have met Eto’o at a nightclub in Madrid in 1997.

That was when the former striker was playing for Leganes, a club based near the city.

A relationship between Eto’o and Adileusa ensued leading to her pregnancy.

According to the lawsuit stated by Spanish press agency EFE, Adileusa then discovered in February 1998 that she was pregnant.

The lawsuit also added that the former footballer ‘told her that he would act responsibly with respect to the common child, although he preferred that she did not give birth to the child.’

2. The legal battle involving Erika’s paternity started in 2018

Erika Rosario’s mother, Adileusa began the lawsuit in 2018 as she provided biological evidence that supported her testimony that Erika was the daughter of Eto’o.


Eto’o is said not to have engaged with the court at any point during proceedings and was absent during the decision.

In 2022, the court eventually ruled that Eto’o must now pay allowance, totalling €1,400 (£1,167) per month, to the young woman which is dated back to the moment that the lawsuit was filed.

Court No. 83 in Madrid reached the verdict in February 2022 to conclude the legal battle.

However, to date, Samuel Eto’o has never publicly acknowledged that he is indeed Erika Rosario’s father.

3. Why is Erika Rosario suing her father?

Pulse Sports reported that the 22-year-old daughter of Samuel Eto’o is suing her father due to his failure to pay her support fees as ruled by the court in 2022.

After Erika was pronoucned as Samuel Eto’o’s daughter in 2022, after multiple refusals by the former Cameroonian striker to undergo DNA tests, the judge later established a pension of €1,400 per month to be paid by the FECAFOOT president.

However, the young woman alleges that Eto’o never made good on the court ruling.

"He owes more than five years of pension to his daughter and continues to defy justice. Erika's economy is fragile while Eto'o lives in luxury,” says Fernando Osuna, the lawyer of Eto’o’s daughter, in statements collected by 'El Diario de Sevilla.

The defense of Eto’o’s daughter, Erika do Rosario requests the application of "the aggravating factors of recidivism and abuse of authority given the superiority it has over the young woman."

Recall that Eto'o was already sentenced to one year and 10 months for a tax offence in the national territory, and to a financial fine for the non-payment of maintenance to another of his daughters born out of wedlock.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/erika-do-rosario-samuel-etos-daughter-lawsuit-2023070209305058775

No Hijab for Aisha! Super Eagles star Umar Sadiq shows off daughter as injury recovery continues.

Super Eagles of Nigeria star Umar Sadiq is back among the trends on social media.

The 26-year-old forward took to his official social media platforms to share his recovery process ahead of the new season.

Sadiq Umar daughter Aisha and Hijab
Sadiq went viral with photos of his training with his daughter Aisha.

Along with the photo was a message that said, "AISHA you a blessing 🤍the mother of the believers 🙏🏾all I pray is my GOD should keep protecting and guiding you to the straight path."

In the comments, Sadiq was criticized for not covering his daughter Aish with the traditional Hojab as a Muslim.

Sadiq Umar recovering from injury

In order to complete his injury recovery and be ready for the start of preseason on July 10th, the Real Sociedad striker is already working at Anoeta.

The Nigerian went to Anoeta to begin his workouts and carry out his personal work schedule so that he could come on July 10 in the best possible shape for the start of the preseason.

Since the season finished on June 4, the striker has been working diligently alone.

Sadiq has revealed the routines he has done alone on social media, displaying his passion and commitment.

Sadiq is nearing the end of his recovery, recalling the distant September 11 when he suffered a right knee injury during his third game in a Real Sociedad shirt.

The player wants to get back on the field and prove his value to the squad before the first summertime exhibition game against Osasuna on July 21.


Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/umar-sadiq-super-eagles-star-blasted-as-daughter-aisha-does-not-wear-hijab-2023070202594569871

According to sources in Portugal, Cristiano Ronaldo's mansion near Lisbon falls a year behind schedule and has upset the football star's future neighbours.

Ronaldo's mansion has caused some misunderstandings with others living around the area, with the location of the property only known to the Portuguese public.

Ronaldo and his family are expected to split their time between Lisbon, which is close to the shore, and Madrid, the home of his former team Real Madrid, once he retires from playing football.

Recent reports have suggested that the construction has taken a setback which has made his future neighbours furious with him and his family.

Neighbours angry with Ronaldo’s family
According to Look magazine, Ronaldo and his partner Georgina Rodriguez have enraged neighbours by performing substantial work on the £28 million property.

The construction work has been going on for more than three years and will continue for at least another year.

As reported by Daily Mail, it is believed that neighbours are "fed up" with the ongoing endeavour and have said, “They've been building for three years. The house is so big it looks like a hospital.

“My street has been closed for months, my garden is full of dust. My street has been closed for months, my garden full of dust. All because of Pharaoh Ronaldo's "pyramid".

The estate, which locals derisively refer to as "Pharaoh Ronaldo's pyramid," still needs a lot of work as evidenced by a recent video, which at the time seemed like a building site.

Ronaldo’s project in Lisbon
Ronaldo’s project in Lisbon, Portugal is a huge multi-million project which has been going on for more than three years

The project's estimated cost was originally set at £10 million; however, costs have since increased to £17 million and now total £28 million.

As part of what is thought to be Portugal's most costly real estate development, the home will include a massive glass swimming pool with an underwater bridge, a master bedroom covering 1,000 square feet, and many other amenities.

Several homes in Europe are owned by the Portuguese star. He owns a pricey Italian property in Turin from his time with Juventus, as well as a £4.8 million mansion on the La Finca estate, a gated fortress estate close to Madrid.

Ronaldo also owns a seven-story apartment building in Funchal, Madeira, the island where he was born.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/neighbours-in-lisbon-angry-with-ronaldo-after-multi-million-mansion-falls-behind-schedule-2023070109171110328

The world football governing body has released the latest FIFA ranking, with the Super Eagles benefitting from their win against Sierra Leone.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have moved up in the latest FIFA ranking released by the world football governing body on June 29, 2023.

The Super Eagles were ranked 40th in the last ranking released in April but have now moved up to 39th.

Nigeria move up in FIFA ranking
The three-time African champions gained a total of 5.68 to move up a place from their position last April.

Nigeria played just one game in the last international window, beating Sierra Leone 3-2 to book their place in next year’s Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

With the movement, Jose Peserio’s men stay above Erling Haaland’s Norway, the Black Stars of Ghana, the Elephants of Cote D'Ivoire and the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon.

Senegal remain Africa's number one as Argentina stay top
On the African continent, the Super Eagles remain in the top six, which is a big boost for them as it means they will be among the top seeds when the AFCON draw is conducted later this year.

Meanwhile, Morocco remain Africa’s number one nation, sitting in 13th place in the world ranking.

They are followed by the Teranga Lions of Senegal (18th), the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia (31), the Desert Warriors of Algeria (33) and the Pharaohs of Egypt (34).

On the world stage, world champions Argentina are still the number one ranked nation ahead of France, Brazil, England and Belgium.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/fifa-ranking-super-eagles-ahead-of-haalands-norway-ghana-ivory-coast-and-cameroon-2023062909154390241

SSC Napoli and Super Eagles superstar Victor Osimhen is enjoying his vacation in Lagos Nigeria and embarrassing people on the pitch while at it.
A video has emerged showing Italian champion and Napoli hero Victor Osimhen surely having fun on his summer vacation in Lagos, Nigeria.

Osimhen is showing his friends and fans why he is making a living as top professional footballer in Europe.

In the video making the rounds as posted by a Twitter use Takingcustody.

In the video, Osimhen picked up a loose pass before beating two of his markers with impressive ball-joggling skill.

He progressed the ball beautifully while those watching cheered on.

However, his final effort in the offensive third was way over the bar.

It was a moment that proved why the 24-year-old is a professional.

Osimhen in Lagos
The Super Eagles star has been in the centre of excellence on vacation after a gruelling season with Napoli.

Osimhen proved to be a hero as Napoli ended a 33-year wait for the Serie A title.

He netted 26 goals to lead the club from the front en route a historic feat as the first African to be named Serie A striker of the season.

Watch the video here

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/napoli-icon-victor-osimhen-incredible-skill-to-embarrass-locals-in-lagos-2023062907541757163

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

The Real Madrid shot-stopper has officially tied the knot with Mishel Gerzig, more than a decade after sleeping with Kevin de Bruyne's girlfriend.

Thibaut Courtois and Mishel Gerzig are officially married.

The 31-year-old Real Madrid goalkeeper wedded his Jewish girlfriend this week.

A report from People reveals that after the pair first connected on Instagram in early 2021, the couple began dating that summer.

Courtois proposed to Gerzig in June 2022 and a year later, he walked teh beautiful Israeli model down the aisle in a beautiful wedding ceremony at the Chateau de la Croix des Gardens in Cannes, France.

Courtois first announced their relationship on Instagram in August 2021. He posted a photo of the couple sitting together with a caption reading, "The love of my life" in Hebrew.

Gerzig told Israeli lifestyle magazine La'Isha that the couple first met on Instagram after Courtois commented on a photo of Gerzig with her pet dog.

Since then the couple have been together although, some people have accused the model and former naval officer of dating the footballer to promote her own career, a rumour she has since dispelled.

Thibaut Courtois and Mishel Gerzig's wedding

Over the weekend, the couple first hosted friends and family to their welcome party ahead of their wedding ceremony.


Courtois and Mishel dressed up in white for the event and seem glued to each other as the pair shared snaps on their social media network.

Three days later the couple shared beautiful photos from their wedding on Instagram with the Real Madrid shot-stopper captioning it: ‘Mr & Mrs Courtois‘

Check out some photos from their wedding below.

Courtois weds fiancee 11 years after sleeping with teammate's girlfriend

Recall that the Los Blancos shot-stopper was revealed to have slept with his Belgium teammate’s wife.

Courtois was accused of sleeping with Kevin de Bruyne’s then-girlfriend Caroline Lijen after she herself revealed in a bombshell interview.

In 2014, Caroline Lijnen spoke out on her fling with Courtois back, insisting she strayed towards him in 2012 after De Bruyne had his own affair with her best friend

“Kevin cheated on me,” she told Story Magazine as reported by Daily Star

“I did not say anything for months because I couldn't say anything, as Kevin's parents said they would take legal action if I gave my story.

“I was under pressure and I could not have contact with Kevin.

“I respected everything. But in his book Keep it Simple Kevin wrote a passage about my affair with Thibaut. So, I decided to remain silent no longer.

“In the summer of 2012, Kevin told me that he had an affair with my old best friend. I gave him the choice: her or me. I was ready to give him another chance, but our relationship was never the same afterwards.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/thibaut-courtois-mishel-gerzig-wedding-2023062814564232203

Chelsea forward Kai Havertz has officially signed for London rivals Arsenal after spending three years at Stamford Bridge.

Last season, he failed to perform at a high level as Chelsea ended up in 12th position in the Premier League table.

This summer, he has been subjected to different transfer speculation, with Real Madrid making the first move for him.

However, they dropped out of the race, giving Arsenal the chance to swoop in and sign the Chelsea forward for £60 million plus 5 million add-ons.

Kai Havertz has finally signed for Arsenal after recently completing his medical and has joined the list of players to play for both teams.

Havertz joins Arsenal
Mikel Arteta has always been a huge admirer of Kai Havertz since his days at Bayer Leverkusen and has finally gotten his man.

Arsenal 'lost their souls' before I turned them to title contenders - Mikel Arteta

The Gunners completed a deal for the Chelsea forward worth a total of £65 million including add-on fees.

According to Romano Fabrizio on Twitter, "It's officially confirmed. Kai Havertz joins Arsenal on £65m deal from Chelsea — medical was completed over the weekend, and he will wear number 29. Signing sealed."

The 24-year-old becomes Arsenal's first signing of the summer and joins former Chelsea midfielder Jorginho at the Emirates.

Kai Havertz will become the eighth Chelsea player to make a switch from the Blues to the Gunners in recent years.

Havertz joins list of players to make London switch
The Chelsea forward is not the first player nor will he be the last to make a switch from Stamford Bridge to the Emirate.

The likes of William Gallas in 2006, Lassana Diarra in 2007, Yossi Benayoun in 2011, Petr Cech in 2015, David Luiz in 2019, Willian in 2020, Jorginho in 2023 and now Kai Havertz in 2023 and made a transfer switch from Chelsea to Arsenal at a particular time of their career.

Havertz will be the eighth player to make a transfer move from Chelsea to Arsenal after his move was confirmed by the club.

The Gunners are still in the transfer market to sign more players as they hope to build on their second-place performance last season.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/kai-havertz-complete-switch-to-arsenal-joins-list-of-player-to-have-featured-for-both-london-clubs-2023062614564850657

Lionel Messi has been awarded the best foreign player for the 2022/23 Ligue 1 season.

Argentine Superstar Lionel Messi has been awarded the Ligue 1 Foreign Player of the Season for his exploits at PSG last season, helping them to a record 11th league title.

The 36-year-old leaves the French top flight for MLS's Inter Miami after two seasons but continues to earn plaudits for his impressive second season.

What happened
The former Barcelona man was nominated for the Ligue 1 Player of The Season award but lost out to his teammate Kylian Mbappe.

However, he has been named the best non-French player in the competition in a recent announcement by the league.

Although he only scored a paltry 16 goals for his own lofty standards, below nine other players, Messi led the league for assists this season with 16, five more than the next best, Neymar.

This sums up to 32 goal contributions, and only the Ligue 1 player of the season, Kylian Mbappe, with 34, had more in the entire campaign.

Meanwhile, Lionel Messi looked back on his fractured relationship with Paris Saint-Germain fans and how their relationship evolved during his two-year stay.

The 36-year-old ran down his PSG contract, despite having a renewal offer on the table, and is now a player for MLS side Inter Miami.

The Argentine superstar was regularly subjected to jeers by sections of the Parisien fanbase.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/lionel-messi-wins-ligue-1-best-foreign-player-award-2023062615523225578

Victor Osimhen's agent has stated that there are offers that will be irresistible to turn down.

Victor Osimhen’s agent Dario Canovi has stated that the Napoli striker will be sold if a tempting offer comes for him.

The Nigerian international has been linked with several top European clubs following his outstanding performance for the Partenopei at the just concluded season.

Napoli won the Scudetto for the first time since 1988 and Osimhen scored 26 goals in 32 matches in the Italian topflight division.

The 24-year-old has drawn interests from Manchester United, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich.

The striker’s value according to Napoli could rise to about €150m and Canovi believes such an offer will be difficult to resist.

What Osimhen’s agent said

Canovi told Italian news media outlet Radio Marte as quoted by Complete Sports:

Osimhen had made it clear that his future with the Serie A champions depends on Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis.

PSG are understood to be making a staggering offer of €150m as Kylian Mbappe could be leaving the club to join Real Madrid this summer.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/victor-osimhen-it-will-be-difficult-to-resist-euro150m-offer-for-him-agent-reveals-2023062614013829302

Edo Man Deontay Wilder has issued a warning to Andy Ruiz for his next fight.

As their talks progress, Deontay Wilder has cautioned Andy Ruiz Jr. not to lose out on "a hell of a lot of money."

After going silent for months, the two former champions now appear to be making progress as they prepare to square off in a WBC final eliminator to determine Tyson Fury's next opponent.

Fans who feel deprived of heavyweight action in 2023 would appreciate a matchup between the two former world champions, but the contract hasn't been finalized yet.

In a very mysterious callout, Wilder shared a video message with his future rival in which he encouraged him to "dictate his own career."

Wilder to Andy Ruiz
Wilder took to his official Instagram account to make the call out to Ruiz.

Along with the video was a message that said, “Stop playing around @andy_destroyer13 and be a man and make your own decisions and not allow your daddy to mess up your last few years #DaddyBoy❤️.

“It's okay to be that but you're a grown-ass man with children depending on you.

“Remember that before it’s too late then you’ll have regrets while your father lectures you on how you should have saved your money lol.”

In the video he said, “Hey yo Andy. It’s time up for the games now, buddy, let’s get this fight on.

"We offered you a hell of a lot of money. Now, one thing I don’t want is for you to allow others to dictate your career at this moment in time. It’s only a short period of time that you have.

"You gotta man up to responsibilities, because if you allow others to dictate your life at this point in time, you’re gonna end up with nothing.

"Zero. Broke, my man, okay? I have no more time to wait on about you and this situation … I think you should take it.”

Ruiz is the first heavyweight to defeat Anthony Joshua as a professional boxer.

Wilder continued by offering Ruiz his counsel a second time It remains to be seen if he is aware that Ruiz's squad is considering taking a different route.

Ruiz merely said, "Be ready," in response to Wilder as early September is the intended date for the fight.

Any postponements would jeopardize Wilder's advanced negotiations with Saudi Arabia to take on Anthony Joshua in December.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/boxing/story/edo-man-deontay-wilder-wants-1st-boxer-to-beat-anthony-joshua-2023062610394729670

Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has completed his transfer to Barcelona, as confirmed by the club.

The German international left City on a free transfer after he decided not to extend his contract with the Citizens.

Gundogan who was instrumental for Pep Guardiola’s team during their treble win last season made 304 appearances, scored 60 goals and provided 40 assists for Manchester City.

The midfielder has now officially completed his move to Barcelona and all paperwork has been signed by both parties.

Manchester City confirms Gundogan transfer to Barcelona
Ilkay Gundogan has made a transfer move from Manchester City to Barcelona on a free transfer.

The completed deal was officially announced by Manchester City’s official Twitter account, confirming that he has joined Barcelona.

Man City’s Twitter handle tweeted, “Thank you, İlkay. @IlkayGuendogan is to join Barcelona bringing an end to a hugely successful seven-year stay with Manchester City.”

The 32-year-old has put a halt to his seven years stay at the Etihad and has decided to move to Spain and play for Barcelona next season.

Barcelona also confirmed the transfer of Ilkay Gundogan on their official Twitter page and have given him a warm welcome.

The new signing also released a statement shortly after the announcement, saying, "He is very happy to sign with Barcelona, excited for this new journey and to join this beautiful club. See you soon forza Barcelona."

Details of Gundogan’s deal
Gundogan’s move to Barcelona came as a free transfer after his contract expired with Man City a few weeks ago.

The details of the deal as reported by Romano Fabrizio on Twitter are not stated in full detail.

According to Fabrizio, “Gundogan has a release clause of €400m release clause, a contract signed until June 2025 and an additional clause to extend until 2026

Despite Man City's efforts to keep the German and other interested parties away from Arsenal and Saudi Arabia's generous offers, the German chose to move to Barcelona.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/ilkay-gundogan-joins-barcelona-on-a-free-transfer-2023062609505300120

Victor Osimhen won the best international African player beating Mohamed Salah and Riyad Mahrez at the Ghana Football Awards.

Victor Osimhen has been given the best African International player at the Ghana Football Awards ceremony, GF Awards Twitter.

The Napoli striker beat the likes of Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, Riyad Mahrez of Manchester City and Sevilla’s Yassine Bounou.

Osimhen said after winning the award:

Osimhen’s achievements this season
Osimhen scooped the award ahead of Mahrez who won the treble with City as well as Bounou who helped Sevilla to a victorious outing in the Europa League.

The 24-year-old scored 26 goals in Serie A to help Napoli win the Scudetto in an outstanding 2022-23 season.

He became the first Nigerian to win the accolade and also his first in the annual award held in Ghana.

The Super Eagles striker has now added to his collections of individual awards this year winning Serie A’s topscorer and the best striker in the Italian league.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/osimhen-beats-salah-mahrez-to-win-best-african-player-at-ghana-football-awards-2023062608342718345

In recent years, we have seen a lot of big contracts given to athletes by their employers in the world of sports.

Different sports like Formula 1, football, basketball, tennis and others offer huge contracts to their athletes due to their performance and abilities.

The game of football of recent has overshadowed other sports in offering their players massive salaries.

Currently, football is where the money is at its most staggering levels, especially in Saudi Arabia where players earn twice as much as they earn in Europe.

With football leading in terms of contracts given to players, Pulse Sports takes a look at the top ten biggest contracts in the world of sports.

Top Ten Highest Earners in the World

1. Cristiano Ronaldo - £200 million
Ever since Cristiano Ronaldo fought his way out of Manchester United to go to Al-Nassr, money has been flowing freely throughout the Saudi Pro League.

With a deal worth an astounding £173 million annually, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner easily tops the list of athletes with the highest yearly salaries.

The Portuguese has made a massive change in the Saudi Pro League in terms of interest from fans around the world, and also in convincing other top-level stars to make the move.

2. Karim Benzema - £172 million
Benzema also made a move to the same club that signed N’golo Kante, with both players playing for the same team.

The Frenchman was also offered a massive contract for signing for Al-Ittihad and will earn a lesser amount than Cristiano Ronaldo

Karim Benzema, the reigning Ballon d'Or winner who left Real Madrid for the Middle East, will make £172 million annually.

3. N’golo Kante - £86.2 million
Chelsea former midfielder N'Golo Kante has also made his move to Saudi Arabia which has skyrocketed his earnings to £86.2 million.

The French international recently completed his move from Chelsea to Al-Ittihad and joined the ranks of the highest earners.

Kante's move to Saudi Arabia has displaced Lionel Messi in second position since his move to Inter Miami, USA.


4. Steph Curry - £42.8 million
Steph Curry is a popular basketball player that plays for Golden State Warriors in the NBA. He is well known for his three-point shooting range.

American professional basketball player is the highest-paid NBA player with an amount worth £42.8 million yearly.

Steph is one of the best basketball players in the world and he is also recognised as the best three-point shooter in the NBA.

5. Zach Lavine - £42.79 million
Zach Lavine is also a basketball player that earns a lot of money, playing for the Chicago Bulls in the NBA.

The NBA star player takes home an amount close to what Steph Curry earns in a year because he is the Chicago Bulls' best player.

Lavine pockets £42.79 million in a year, making him the second-highest-paid player in the NBA behind Curry.

6. Nikola Jokic - £42 million
Nikola Jokic is a professional basketball player that plays for the Denver Nuggets in the NBA.

He is considered as their best player in the past few seasons, winning the NBA Finals MVP and two-time league MVP.

Jokic currently earns a sum of £42m a year, just a little distance from Lavine and Steph Curry's annual salary.

7. Lamar Jackson - £41.4 million
Lamar Jackson is an NFL star that plays for Baltimore Ravens. He plays the position of quarterback for his team.

The NFL star also entered the list of highest earners in the world as he collects a huge sum every year.

Jackson currently earns a total of £41.4 million a year and he is the highest-paid NFL player in the world.

8. Jalen Hurts - £40.27 million
Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles is also an NFL player that plays the same position quarter-back as that of Lamar.

He is also one of the best NFL players in the world and earns a massive amount of money yearly.

Jalen's salary yearly is £40.27 million a bit below Lamar Jackson’s yearly payment and he is the second highest-paid NFL player.

9. Verstappen - £40 million
Verstappen is one of the best Formula One drivers right now and drives for the Red Bulls.

The Dutchman is the highest-paid Formula One driver in the world surpassing Lewis Hamilton.

The Formula One driver currently earns a total sum of £40 million per year above other drivers in the world.

10. Kelvin Durrant - £37.4 million
Kelvin Durrant is also a popular NBA star that plays for Phoenix Suns. He is a professional basketball player that is known for his skills.

The Phoenix Suns star also earns one of the highest salaries in the NBA and he is currently the best player in his team.

Durrant earns a sum of £37.4 million every year and makes our top ten list of highest-paid athletes in the world.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/revealed-top-10-biggest-contracts-in-sports-2023062421543666149

WATCH THE GOAL CELEBRATION BELOW

https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/okocha-celebrates-skills-at-ronaldinhos-charity-game-2023062508171728989

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

Ighalo started his career at Nigerian club Prime and moved on to another Nigerian club Julius Berger before finally getting his first European move in 2007 to Norwegian club Lyn.

Former Super Eagles striker Odion Jude Ighalo has shown interest in playing in Nigeria's elite soccer league, the Nigeria Premier League (NPL), but under certain conditions.

Ighalo started his career at Nigerian club Prime and moved on to another Nigerian club Julius Berger before finally getting his first European move in 2007 to Norwegian club Lyn.

The former Philadelphia Eagles striker is currently without a club affiliation following the termination of his contract with Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal.

Ighalo told Elegbete TV, would not completely rule out playing in the league but did say that there would be some challenges to playing in the NPL.

He said, “If security is guaranteed, along with good media coverage and competent referees, I can play for six months or even a year without receiving a salary.”

Odion Ighalo Biography
Ighalo started his career at Nigerian club Prime and moved on to another Nigerian club Julius Berger before finally getting his first European move in 2007 to Norwegian club Lyn.

A year later, he was signed by Italian club Udinese but found game time hard to come by and then spent most of his tenure on two separate loan spells with Spanish club Granada.

Ighalo scored 16 goals to help Granada seal promotion to La Liga after which he also joined Watford in the English Championship.

He was integral in the club's promotion to the Premier League in the 2014–15 season where he led the Hornets with 16 goals in 37 games in his first Premier League season.

In January 2017, Ighalo joined Chinese Super League club Changchun Yatai for a reported £20 million where he scored 36 goals in 55 games in his two years.

One more year in China followed with Shanghai Shenhua where he scored 10 goals in 19 games and as such attracted the attention of his favourite club Manchester United.

In January 2020, Ighalo returned to England, joining Manchester United on loan, initially until the end of the 2019–20 season; the loan was then extended until January 2021 and he managed five goals in 23 games for the club.

His next adventure was in Saudi Arabia with Al Shabab where he scored 22 goals in 32 games across two seasons after which he joined another team in the same country, Al Hilal where he still plays.

Ighalo led Al Hilal to the Saudi Professional Football League title in his first season in 2021/22 also finishing as the top scorer in the league.
He still plays for Al Hilal and just finished the season with 26 goals in 37 games across all competitions.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/odion-ighalo-gives-3-conditions-to-play-in-the-npfl-for-free-2023062506163577190

Okocha is proud to remind Ronaldinho and the football world of his skills in the USA.
Ronaldinho's celebrity-studded charity game in Florida came to a wild conclusion as crowd members invaded the pitch in large numbers after the game was called early due to weather.

To organize "The Beautiful Game" at the Exploria Stadium, the 43-year-old Brazil superstar welcomed a variety of footballing faces and celebrity all-stars.

At the MLS team Orlando City's stadium, the game featured Team Ronaldinho (R10) battling Team Roberto Carlos (RC3).

Ronaldinho vs Okocha
Ronaldinho battled Okocha in a show of skills on the pitch, reigniting their glory days before retirement.

Ronaldinho and Okocha were teammates and French Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain and took to the pitch to entertain the crowd.

Team R10's Jay-Jay Okocha scored the game's first goal after tricking the defense with some of his signature movement and slipping the ball past Rene Higuita of Colombia.

The goal showed that Okocha, a legend of the Super Eagles of Nigeria, still possesses incredible football skills, years after retiring.

Okocha took to his official social media platforms to celebrate his skills in the charity game that went viral.

Along with a video of the skills needed to score was a message on his official Instagram account that said, "Just a little cameo in Olando."

Okocha, now retired, was a pundit during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Known for his football skills, Okocha is also invited to showcase them in several top-level charity games worldwide.

Okocha is regarded as one of the greatest football exports from the African continent and continues to be an ambassador for the game.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/okocha-celebrates-skills-at-ronaldinhos-charity-game-2023062508171728989

Liverpool have reportedly scheduled a meeting with Osimhen's representatives to discuss a possible transfer.

Liverpool have reportedly scheduled a meeting with Victor Osimhen's representatives to discuss their interest in the player.

The 24-year-old had an outstanding season in Serie A with Napoli, scoring 26 goals to win the Scudetto, Capocannoniere, and consequently the best striker award.

Osimhen's transfer situation
As Pulse Sports reported previously, Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis claimed that they have reached an agreement in principle with the striker on a two-year extension that keeps the Nigeria international at the club until 2027.

However, the player, according to him, would be allowed to leave if a massive offer was made for him.

A recent report by GetfootballNewsItaly claims the president and Osimhen's agent had talks over a renewal but did not reach an agreement.

The report claimed Osimhen's demands were not met, as he believes he stands to make more elsewhere should he leave the club this summer.

It remains to be seen if the Merseysiders would be willing to match Napoli's over-€150 million request for the striker, given that they pulled out of Jude Bellingham's deal despite being in pole position, citing lack of finances.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/report-liverpool-schedule-talks-with-victor-osimhen-over-transfer-2023062416341922161

There will never be enough superlatives to describe Lionel Messi's career and even as we reach the end of his glittering run, the Argentine maestro continues to break records.

As Lionel Messi turns 36 and prepares for his next adventure far away in the United States, we take a look at 5 absurd records by the Argentine that will likely never be broken.

Most goals in a calendar year - 91
In 2012, Messi broke the longstanding record of 85 goals, scoring 91 for Barcelona. Messi, under Pep Guardiola, reached unfathomable heights in the False 9 role and the goals flowed like water.

Most LaLiga hat-tricks - 36
Scoring one hat-trick is a dream for a striker, let alone 5. Now imagine 36 of those in one lifetime and this is just in the league. Messi scored 36 hat-tricks for Barcelona in Laliga and if he hadn't moved on, surely would have clocked 40.

Most LaLiga goals - 474
This is yet another record that would surely be impossible to break, or at least close to impossible.

Messi scored 474 goals in Spain before moving to PSG and with Karim Benzema gone and LaLiga not boasting any young consistent marksmen, it is impossible to see this record ever being broken.

Most Ballon d'Or wins - 7
Lionel Messi finally won the World Cup and was the tournament's best player, which means in a few months, this number could very well be 8.

Manchester City's Erling Haaland would have something to say about that but the consistency levels required to achieve this feat are almost superhuman.

To dominate a sport to this extent while being in constant competition with the game's other great star in Cristiano Ronaldo speaks volumes. Hard to see this one ever being broken.

5. Most goals for a single club - 672
This is one record that will probably never be broken, at least not in this lifetime. Just for context, Erling Haaland would need 13 seasons scoring 50 goals for Manchester City to even come close.

You can't disagree really, either. 672 goals is simply a remarkable feat, Messi is simply remarkable

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/5-records-lionel-messi-set-that-may-never-be-broken-2023062416452052721

According to sources, Neymar's father is arrested for an alleged crime in Brazil and could face a ₦900 million fine.

According to reports, Neymar Jr.'s father was detained on Thursday after carrying out illegal construction on his son's property in Rio de Janeiro.

The Mangaratiba Municipal Environment Department, the Environmental Military Police, and the Environmental Protection Group members of the municipality all participated in the arrest as part of an operation.

Prior to his detention, Neymar Da Silva Santos allegedly got into an argument with Shayenne Barreto, Mangaratiba's secretary of the environment.

Neymar Snr. was released, but the Paris Saint-Germain player's father received a warning that personnel in charge of carrying out the task needed "more education," according to Brazilian publication UOL Sport.

A video that Neymar Jr. posted to Instagram is believed to depict an artificial lake that the former Barcelona player is constructing at his home, and it is this video that sparked the original complaint of an environmental crime, which has been lodged with Mangaratiba City Hall.

Genesis Ecossistemas, the business mentioned, constructs lakes and natural swimming pools

According to a report, the lake on Neymar Jr.'s property "promotes deforestation, rock breaking, and the diversion of a river."

From the prohibited work, the investigation uncovered a number of environmental violations, including "the diversion of a water course, extraction of river water without authorisation, extraction of water for an artificial lake, earthworks, excavation, and movement of stones and rocks without authorisation."

Neymar Sr. received a fine that is thought to be around £822,000 (five million Brazilian reals) due to the property damage the work produced.

After delivering a confusing public apology to his pregnant girlfriend, Bruna Biancardi, his son recently made news.

Neymar's unclear playing future this summer as a result of an injury-plagued PSG season is another concern he must deal with.

Although Manchester United has been mentioned in connection with Neymar, new rumors have suggested he may stay at PSG, who are apparently close to hiring Luis Enrique, his former Barcelona manager.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/neymars-father-is-arrested-for-alleged-crime-in-brazil-2023062310262385626

The Messi vs Ronaldo debate is one that may not end any time soon.

Last week, we saw football fans going all out to embrace and show reference to, without doubt the two biggest football stars since the era of Pele and Maradona.

Two fans went the extra-mile, invading the football pitch to steal a few moments with their footballing icon- one in Portugal, the other in faraway Asia.

The pitch invader in Lisbon Portugal bowed to Cristiano Ronaldo after managing to get a hug from the Al Nassr forward.

During Argentina’s game against Australia in China, another fan invaded the pitch and met Lionel Messi. When he was eventually marshalled away by security, he didn’t mind; he had a priceless look of fulfilment on his face.

In spite of this, the comparison and debate of who the greater player is between the new Inter Miami hire and the former Manchester United player have refused to go away.

Asukwo Oduo of Pulse Sports, in this article, x-rays 7 remarkable achievements by Cristiano Ronaldo that puts him ahead of the Argentine captain.

1. Won the Ballon d'Or while in England
Before Cristiano Ronaldo arrived at Old Trafford in the summer of 2003, only one footballer plying his trade in England had won the Ballon d'Or.

England wonderkid Michael Owen while playing for Merseyside club Liverpool won the Ballon d'Or in 2001 and since then no other player in the EPL enjoyed such success.

However, that quickly changed when Ronaldo came onboard after Manchester United paid £12.24m for his signature.

The forward quickly showed why he's highly rated by everyone including Sir Alex Ferguson and that he was worth every penny of his then transfer record for a teenager.

Although English clubs have seen some exceptional talents in the likes of Thierry Henry, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, and Alan Shearer, none was deemed good enough to pick up the Ballon d'Or.

Cristiano Ronaldo was the only exception when he won the award in 2008 when he was only 23.

He scored an outstanding 42 goals in 49 matches for the Red Devils as they won both the English Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.

2. Highest International Goalscorer
For decades, Iranian legend Ali Daei held the record for the most goals (109) in the men's international football.

However, Cristiano Ronaldo's penchant for goals and his hardwork eventually helped him to surpass the age-long record set by the Iranian footballer.

Ronaldo scored two headers in a 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Ireland to move past the record set by Ali Daei.

Cristiano Ronaldo now has 122 international goals, while Lionel Messi has 103 goals in his international career so far.

3. Best Goal Ratio in LaLiga History
Although Lionel Messi is the highest goalscorer in LaLiga's history, but Cristiano Ronaldo remains the most lethal striker in the Spanish league.

During his 17-year spell at Barcelona, Lionel Messi scored a total of 474 goals in 520 matches while Cristiano Ronaldo notched up 311 goals in 292 appearances for Real Madrid.

Lionel Messi’s goal ratio stands at 0.911 while Ronaldo has a superior one pegged at 1.065 goals per game.

4. Most Followed Footballer on Social Media
Following celebrities on social media is one way football fans show their love and admiration for their favourite stars.

A footballer’s fanbase on social media is also a show of their popularity and how much love and respect they enjoy because of their contributions to their national teams and their clubsides.

When Lionel Messi left PSG, the French club lost millions of followers on social media and PSG’s loss were Inter Miami’s gain as the MLS side quickly gained millions of followers on Instagram.

In the same vein when Cristiano Ronaldo join Saudi Pro League Al Nassr, the TV coverage and followership of the club and the league in general increased tremendously.

Currently, Cristiano Ronaldo is the most popular footballer on Instagram with 591 million followers. Lionel Messi comes a distant second with 474 million followers.

Cristiano Ronaldo |Pulsesports.ng
Cristiano Ronaldo is the most followed footballer on Instagram
Others in the top 10 most followed footballers on Instagram include Neymar Jnr, Kylian Mbappe, and Kareem Benzema.

5. UCL trophies
Both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have score over 800 goals in their careers and have led their teams to phenomenal heights.

However, when it comes to the number of UEFA champions league medal won, Ronaldo is ahead of Lionel Messi.

Meanwhile, Lionel Messi is not far behind as he has won the UCl on four occasions with FC Barcelona.

Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Kareem Benzema, Luka Modric, Marcelo and 5 others have all won the coveted UCl trophy five times. CR7 won one with Manchester United and four with Los Blancos.

He led Real Madrid to a dominant era after they won La Decima in 2014, they went on to make the UCl trophy the ‘sole preserve’ of the Bernabeu side, winning it in three succession between 2016-2018.

However, Spaniard Francisco Gento holds the record for the most UCL titles, having won six in the colours of Real Madrid.

Asukwo Oduo • 14:56 - 20.06.2023
The Messi vs Ronaldo debate is one that may not end any time soon.
Last week, we saw football fans going all out to embrace and show reference to, without doubt the two biggest football stars since the era of Pele and Maradona.

Two fans went the extra-mile, invading the football pitch to steal a few moments with their footballing icon- one in Portugal, the other in faraway Asia.

The pitch invader in Lisbon Portugal bowed to Cristiano Ronaldo after managing to get a hug from the Al Nassr forward.

During Argentina’s game against Australia in China, another fan invaded the pitch and met Lionel Messi. When he was eventually marshalled away by security, he didn’t mind; he had a priceless look of fulfilment on his face.

In spite of this, the comparison and debate of who the greater player is between the new Inter Miami hire and the former Manchester United player have refused to go away.

Messi vs Ronaldo: Reactions as pitch invaders take on football icons
SPORTS GIST
Messi vs Ronaldo: Reactions as pitch invaders take on football icons
Asukwo Oduo of Pulse Sports, in this article, x-rays 7 remarkable achievements by Cristiano Ronaldo that puts him ahead of the Argentine captain.

1. Won the Ballon d'Or while in England
Before Cristiano Ronaldo arrived at Old Trafford in the summer of 2003, only one footballer plying his trade in England had won the Ballon d'Or.

England wonderkid Michael Owen while playing for Merseyside club Liverpool won the Ballon d'Or in 2001 and since then no other player in the EPL enjoyed such success.

However, that quickly changed when Ronaldo came onboard after Manchester United paid £12.24m for his signature.


The forward quickly showed why he's highly rated by everyone including Sir Alex Ferguson and that he was worth every penny of his then transfer record for a teenager.

Although English clubs have seen some exceptional talents in the likes of Thierry Henry, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, and Alan Shearer, none was deemed good enough to pick up the Ballon d'Or.

Cristiano Ronaldo was the only exception when he won the award in 2008 when he was only 23.

He scored an outstanding 42 goals in 49 matches for the Red Devils as they won both the English Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.


2. Highest International Goalscorer
For decades, Iranian legend Ali Daei held the record for the most goals (109) in the men's international football.

Cristiano Ronaldo says bedroom moments with girlfriend better than his best goal
FOOTBALL
Cristiano Ronaldo says bedroom moments with girlfriend better than his best goal
However, Cristiano Ronaldo's penchant for goals and his hardwork eventually helped him to surpass the age-long record set by the Iranian footballer.

Ronaldo scored two headers in a 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Ireland to move past the record set by Ali Daei.


Ali Daei, who retired in 2007 after a 13-year career for his country had nothing but admiration for Ronaldo after the then-Manchester United forward broke his record.

He paid tribute to Ronaldo on social media, labelling him a great champion of football and a caring humanist.


Cristiano Ronaldo now has 122 international goals, while Lionel Messi has 103 goals in his international career so far.

3. Best Goal Ratio in LaLiga History
Although Lionel Messi is the highest goalscorer in LaLiga's history, but Cristiano Ronaldo remains the most lethal striker in the Spanish league.

During his 17-year spell at Barcelona, Lionel Messi scored a total of 474 goals in 520 matches while Cristiano Ronaldo notched up 311 goals in 292 appearances for Real Madrid.

Lionel Messi’s goal ratio stands at 0.911 while Ronaldo has a superior one pegged at 1.065 goals per game.

4. Most Followed Footballer on Social Media
Following celebrities on social media is one way football fans show their love and admiration for their favourite stars.

A footballer’s fanbase on social media is also a show of their popularity and how much love and respect they enjoy because of their contributions to their national teams and their clubsides.

When Lionel Messi left PSG, the French club lost millions of followers on social media and PSG’s loss were Inter Miami’s gain as the MLS side quickly gained millions of followers on Instagram.

In the same vein when Cristiano Ronaldo join Saudi Pro League Al Nassr, the TV coverage and followership of the club and the league in general increased tremendously.

Currently, Cristiano Ronaldo is the most popular footballer on Instagram with 591 million followers. Lionel Messi comes a distant second with 474 million followers.

Cristiano Ronaldo |Pulsesports.ng
Cristiano Ronaldo is the most followed footballer on Instagram
Others in the top 10 most followed footballers on Instagram include Neymar Jnr, Kylian Mbappe, and Kareem Benzema.


5. UCL trophies
Both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have score over 800 goals in their careers and have led their teams to phenomenal heights.

7 achievements that show Lionel Messi is superior to Cristiano Ronaldo
FOOTBALL
7 achievements that show Lionel Messi is superior to Cristiano Ronaldo
However, when it comes to the number of UEFA champions league medal won, Ronaldo is ahead of Lionel Messi.

Meanwhile, Lionel Messi is not far behind as he has won the UCl on four occasions with FC Barcelona.

Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Kareem Benzema, Luka Modric, Marcelo and 5 others have all won the coveted UCl trophy five times. CR7 won one with Manchester United and four with Los Blancos.

He led Real Madrid to a dominant era after they won La Decima in 2014, they went on to make the UCl trophy the ‘sole preserve’ of the Bernabeu side, winning it in three succession between 2016-2018.

However, Spaniard Francisco Gento holds the record for the most UCL titles, having won six in the colours of Real Madrid.


6. UCL Highest Top goal scorer
Still on the UEFA champions league, Lionel Messi emerged highest goal scorer in six seasons 08/09, 09/10, 10/11, 11/12, 14/15, and 18/19.

On the otherhand, Cristiano Ronaldo was named top goal scorer in seven seasons 07/08, 12/13, 13/14, 14/15, 15/16, 16/17, and 17/18.

7. FIFA Pukas award
In 2009, Cristiano Ronaldo claimed the inaugural FIFA Pukas award given by the world governing body for football.

He won the award for his long range strike for Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg tie against Porto on 15th April 2009.

The Pukas award is one that has continued to elude Lionel Messi despite being nominated for the award on seven occasions.

Extras
In addition to the aforementioned, Cristiano Ronaldo won the league in three European countries, England (Manchester United), Spain (Real Madrid), and Italy (Juventus).

Conversely, Messi enjoyed success with Barcelona before moving to PSG, where he also won the French Ligue 1.

Also, Ronaldo has the most hattricks - having hit an outrageous 62 in his career so far. Lionel Messi has only managed 57.

However, Brazilian legend Pele holds the record for the most hattricks (92).

Ronaldo also won the highest goalscorer in three different leagues; he remains the only player to achieve the feat in the Premier League, La Liga and the Italian top flight.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/7-achievements-that-show-cristiano-ronaldo-is-better-than-lionel-messi-2023062012034714911

Antony's ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin has given more details about her alleged abuse by the Manchester United star.

Manchester United’s Antony could be in more trouble as his ex-girlfriend Gabriela Callavin has shed more light on the domestic abuse she suffered.

The influencer told Portuguese news media outlet UOL Esporte that she was not only abused by the Brazilian winger but also got life threats.

What Cavallin said about Antony

Cavallin was quoted by Goal:

"He attacked me, shoved me against the door (of the car). There, I said to myself: 'It's over'.

"He broke my suitcase, took my handbag, my passport. He broke my mobile phone, he wouldn't let me go. I was a prisoner from 10pm to almost 3.30am. I call it private captivity. I just wanted to get out of there and he told me that I wouldn't leave until I erased everything. I think his mother called his physiotherapist and asked for help. No one could control it."

Back in May, Antony was accused of molesting his girlfriend before United’s away trip to play Bournemouth.

A case was then filed against Antony in Brazil as Cavallin claimed the 23-year-old inflicted bodily injuries and threatened her life.


Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/he-attacked-me-shoved-me-against-the-door-antonys-ex-sheds-more-light-on-abuse-2023061917190399066

Eden Hazard has struggled to live up to the expectation since he completed his move from Chelsea to Real Madrid.

The Belgian completed his transfer to Madrid for a fee worth £130 million in the summer of 2019 after an impressive spell at Chelsea.

The former Chelsea forward made 352 appearances and scored 92 goals during his seven years spell at Stamford Bridge.

Since his move to Real Madrid, he was only able to score 12 goals in 76 appearances in the space of four years.

Hazard has had a difficult career at Madrid and here are the reasons why the former Chelsea man failed to live up to the expectation in Spain.

1. Price tag
According to Sky Sports, Eden Hazard was bought from Chelsea for a hefty price tag worth £130 million in 2019 which was the highest transfer fee that summer.

However, he could not replicate his performance at Chelsea for Madrid and fell down the pecking order.

Hazard’s price tag was an issue which also affected his performance in Madrid and added more pressure to his game.

He was expected to fill in the shoes of Cristiano Ronaldo but the hefty price tag and the pressure that came with it derailed his performance

2. Accumulated fatigue at Chelsea
Another problem that affected Hazard was that during his playing days at Chelsea, he was playing week-in-week-out.

He played over 350 games for Chelsea without adding international games to his appearances.

During his last season at Chelsea before moving to Real Madrid he got injured towards the end of the season and was rushed back due to the Europa League final clash against Arsenal.

He accumulated a lot of fatigue when he was still playing for Chelsea which also affected his performance after moving to Real Madrid.

3. Multiple Injury
His injury issues started during his last season at Chelsea and ever since then, he has always been in and out of the treatment table.

According to the Mirror, Eden Hazard has picked up a total of 18 injuries for Real Madrid during the space of four years.

The re-occurrence of these injuries has affected him physically and psychologically as he struggles to stay fit.

4. Pressure
One issue Hazard also struggled with at Real Madrid was the pressure that comes with playing for 14 times Champions League winners.

Eden Hazard was signed by Real Madrid to replace one of the best players in the world Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored 450 goals in 438 appearances which is a big shoe to fit in.

The standard Ronaldo had set before leaving Madrid was a very high standard and Hazard could not replace the Portuguese forward and replicate his performance as many expected.

5. Played his best football for Chelsea
The Belgian could not give much to Madrid after giving his best to Chelsea and was close to being nominated for the world's best player.

Hazard's performance at Chelsea was phenomenal and took the Premier League by storm and tormenting defenders was his major goal.

He was unable to do what he does best at Chelsea when he moved to Madrid because there was nothing else he could give.

6. Ageing
Football players are on the cusp of their career's peak and its final stretch at the age of 30. Hazard's situation.

His chances have only been harmed by entering this struggle at the latter stage of his football career and had limited time to adjust, which reduces the likelihood of atonement.

Hazard also began to exhibit the consequences of his physique and quickness in his game and was unable to perform as well as he did while playing for Chelsea.

7. Positioning
Hazard's placement for Chelsea and Real Madrid appears to be identical, but the playing spaces have been very different.

In Chelsea, he began from the left and frequently dipped inside to produce or shoot which has not happened in Madrid.

In his final season at Chelsea, Hazard operated in the area behind the striker, scoring 21 goals and providing 17 assists.

The playmaker has struggled thus far in the Spanish city and has not been able to experience similar success.

S[b]ource: Pulse Sport Nigeria[/b]

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/eden-hazard-7-reasons-why-the-belgian-flopped-at-real-madrid-2023061918504765965

Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly signed an agreement with Georgina Rodriguez to protect his wealth in case they are no longer together in the future.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez have reportedly signed a prenup to avoid financial discrepancies in case they decide to separate.

The pair have been together since 2016 and are yet to legally get married despite rumors of their planned wedding.

The gist about Ronaldo and Georgina
According to a Portuguese TV Show 'TV Guia' as quoted by Sportskeeda, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has protected his billions to avoid paying heavily if he breaks up with his partner.

It is understood that Georgina is being placed on a monthly salary of €100,000, a sum that is believed would increase if they are no longer together.

The model will also be rewarded with the La Finca house that is on display on the Netflix reality show, 'I am Georgina'.

Ronaldo was once pressured about revealing the date for his wedding with his fiance by Piers Morgan and he responded:

“It could be in a year, or it could be in six months or a month. I’m 1000 percent sure it will happen.”

On the other hand, Georgina once said on her TV show on Netflix that her wedding with Ronaldo does not depend on her.

"It doesn’t depend on me. … I wish. To be honest, I don’t think our situation would change drastically because I feel really loved. I have what matters the most with Cristiano. Our wonderful kids and the love I get from him every day. Doesn’t matter.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria


https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/ronaldo-takes-legal-action-to-protect-wealth-from-fiance-georgina-rodriguez-2023061914394538809

According to reports, the police are currently looking into a former rape claim against one of the Premier League managers.

Detectives from the Met Police first learned of a rape event from a crime report that was filed 21 months ago.

The crime report says that a well-known football figure sexually assaulted a teenage girl in the past.

The Premier League manager who has been linked to the attack willingly showed up at a police station on Monday with his attorney. However, he wasn't arrested, but he was questioned about the incident.

Premier League manager accused of rape
The unnamed Premier League manager is currently called in for questioning after reports say that he was accused of raping a teenage girl.

According to reports from the Sun, the accused person first encountered the complainant when she applied to work for a company he was affiliated with at the time.

Further investigation is being conducted before deciding whether to charge him or take no further action.

Stephen Oladehinde • 16:23 - 19.06.2023
According to reports, the police are currently looking into a former rape claim against one of the Premier League managers.
Detectives from the Met Police first learned of a rape event from a crime report that was filed 21 months ago.

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Peter Drury to become new voice of the Premier League after Martin Tyler's exit
The crime report says that a well-known football figure sexually assaulted a teenage girl in the past.

The Premier League manager who has been linked to the attack willingly showed up at a police station on Monday with his attorney. However, he wasn't arrested, but he was questioned about the incident.

Premier League manager accused of rape
The unnamed Premier League manager is currently called in for questioning after reports say that he was accused of raping a teenage girl.

According to reports from the Sun, the accused person first encountered the complainant when she applied to work for a company he was affiliated with at the time.

Further investigation is being conducted before deciding whether to charge him or take no further action.

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The Met Police said as reported by the Sun, “On Thursday, September 23, 2021, the Met received a crime report regarding a historic rape allegation.

"On Monday, June 12, a man was interviewed under caution at a police station.’’

Due to legal restrictions, The Sun is unable to identify the man. It is clear that he disputes the rape allegation.

A source speaks about the allegation
According to a source that spoke to The Sun, “He is shocked by the allegation and totally refutes it.”

“The allegation goes back quite a few years when the complainant met the suspect after she applied for a job at a place he was involved with. She was a teenage girl at the time and is now a mature woman.”

Specialised sex crimes investigator and former Met Det Supt Michael Hames as reported by the Sun stated "With past reports in general, you lose possible evidence that may have been gathered earlier.

“Very often it becomes one person’s word against another’s.”

Investigations and questioning are still ongoing about the allegation but no conclusion on the case has been made.


Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/premier-league-manager-reportedly-investigated-by-the-police-for-rape-issue-2023061915231651968

Belgian forward Eden Hazard is reportedly set to shock the world with his next career move

Former Chelsea and Real Madrid star Eden Hazard is reportedly set for a shock move to Belgian second-division side RWD Molenbeek, which just gained promotion to the top flight following the end of his Real Madrid stint.

Hazard considers next step after Real Madrid exit

The forward is out of contract after leaving Real Madrid following a terrible Real Madrid career that saw him fail miserably to live up to his enormous transfer fee in a purchase from Chelsea.

Hazard endured a poor spell with Los Blancos that saw him score four goals in four years in LaLiga and eventually become just a bit-part player at the club, playing less than 500 minutes in all competitions in the entire 2022/23 campaign with Real Madrid.

The Belgian forward was forced to terminate his Real Madrid contract one year early after clearly failing to make an impact in the team and with Los Blancos enforcing an attacking clearout to make room for new signings.

Hazard close to signing with newly-promoted Molenbeek
According to Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Hazard could be tempted to make his next step with newly promoted Molenbeek as he looks to get his career back on track.

Hazard has received propositions from the USA and Saudi Arabia despite being rumoured to be considering retirement from football due to the difficulty of his Real Madrid spell, but he could now be tempted by a move to Molenbeek to play alongside his brother Kylian.

Considering the financial windfall from the termination of his Real Madrid contract, Hazard could move to Molenbeek without putting financial pressure on the newly-promoted club, giving him the freedom to play his best football once again in his native Belgium.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/eden-hazard-linked-with-shock-move-to-belgian-second-division-2023061822453911317

The investigation into Dani Alves' alleged case of rape has reportedly reached its conclusion and the former Barcelona defender now has a trial date.

Dani Alves could finally know his fate regarding the allegations for which he is accused.

The 40-year-old Brazilian footballer is accused of raping a 23-year-old lady at a Suton nightclub in Barcelona on the night of December 30.

Alves has been incarcerated in temporary detention since January 20 when he was arrested, and has seen all his appeals for bail thrown out the window by the presiding judge of the Barcelona court.

Dani Alves has also seen his marriage to Joana Sanz crash, after the 29-year-old model already declared her intention to divorce the former Pumas and Barcelona defender.

Dani Alves trail date revealed amid sexual assault charges
The date for Alves trial has finally come to light as the 40-year-old could soon know his fate having been imprisoned for over a 100 days.

According to El Periódico, a trial date has been fixed for Dani Alves whose reputation has already taken a hit.

The victim of the footballer no longer has to actively defend herself when sexually assaulted, according to the Penal code.

According to sources consulted by the Catalan media, Dani Alves’ trial is expected to take place between October and November this year.

The Brazilian player has been in custody for almost five months for observing the court risk of flight since he is a native of a country with which Spain does not have an extradition agreement.

The Prosecutors office has always been opposed to his release as they also believe the footballer has an advantage due to his economic muscle that would favour his escape.

Should Alves be found guilty, the former PSG and Juventus defender could face between eight to 10 years in prison.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/dani-alves-rape-case-trial-date-2023061809552101577

Nigeria Super Eagles and SSC Napoli superstar Victor Osimhen has paid tribute to other African players around the world but believes he should be at the top.

SSC Napoli hero and Nigeria Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen has reacted to suggestions that he is the next African Footballer of the Year.


Osimhen has put his name forward following comments made by the Napoli hero during a chat with journalists in Lagos.

Osimhen aims to win the African player award
The 24-year-old was one of the last players to arrive at the Nigeria Super Eagles camp in Lagos ahead of a crucial AFCON qualifier later today.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles are guests this Sunday in Monrovia as they tackle Sierra Leone with a ticket to the 2023 AFCON at stake.

The Super Eagles camped in Lagos before travelling to Monrovia for the clash with Napoli’s Osimhen and Bright Osayi-Samuel the last to join in.

After their training at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Osimhe spoke with the media during a greet and meet session with journalists at their Eko Hotels and Suites home.

Responding to a question from Pulse Sports Nigeria on being the next African Footballer of the Year, Osimhen says he has done enough to deserve to be at the top in Africa and the world.

I think with the kind of season i had and everything that i have put in - the work i have done individually, collectively for my club (and) myself, i think i deserve to be top in world football (and) in terms of even African footballer of the year,” he said.

Osimhen pays tribute to African players
While he believes he deserves the crown as Africa’s next football king, Osimhen remains humble, leaving everything to God as he pays tribute to other Africans.

“Like i said, a lot of Africans have done so well for themselves and respective clubs also,” he added.

“But if God wills it, I am going to win it. If not, I will keep on working hard till I win it,” he added.

Osimhen and the Super Eagles are already in Monrovia ready for the important battle against their host Sierra Leone.

The Super Eagles are currently second in Group A behind Guinea-Bissau.

However, Nigeria could become the latest country to seal a ticket to Ivory Coast with a win over the Leone Stars.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/deserve-african-footballer-of-the-year-napoli-icon-osimhen-2023061809354075270