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Odion Ighalo became a free agent after his contract with Al Hilal expired at the end of the season. Ighalo left memories in the heart of fans of the Saudi club. Odion Ighalo has parted ways with Saudi Arabia Professional Football League side Al Hilal after his contract expired at the end of the season. The Nigerian international joined Al Hilal after leaving Manchester United during the winter transfer window in 2022. Al Hilal bids farewell to Ighalo The 33-year-old was congratulated by the Blue Waves after a successful spell in the last one and half years. The club made a ost on their official Twitter Handle: Ighalo’s brief spell at Al Hilal The Super Eagles forward created unforgettable memories at the club winning trophies and personal accolades. Ighalo won the Saudi Arabia Professional Football League in his first season followed by the top scorer award when he netted 24 goals. Al Hilal surrendered their league title Al-lttihad as they finished third as Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr came second in the 2022-23 campaign. The 2019 AFCON top goalscorer gave the fans something to cheer about as he helped the club win the King's Cup this season. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/ighalo-bids-farewell-to-saudi-arabia-club-al-hilal-after-successful-2-year-spell-2023060209145808214
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Real Madrid losing Karim Benzema to the allure of Saudi Arabia could open the window for Victor Osimhen or another of these five players to make a career-defining move to the Santiago Bernabeu Real Madrid are set to lose captain Karim Benzema to a ludicrously expensive offer from an unnamed Saudi Arabian club, and they are already lining up a number of alternatives to the Frenchman. We have compiled five players who Real Madrid are currently considering as Benzema’s replacement, with the pros and cons for both player and club on each deal. 1. Harry Kane Tottenham forward Harry Kane is currently tipped as the favourite to replace Benzema after rumours of the England captain being approached by Real Madrid. Kane’s reluctance to leave England with the record for the most goals in Premier League history in sight could be the stumbling block for a possible transfer to Spain, with the Spurs’ forward preferring a move to Manchester United. After scoring 30 goals in the just concluded 2022/23 season, Kane was only stopped from winning a fourth Premier League golden boot by the irrepressible Erling Haaland, who scored 36 goals. Kane is now only 47 goals away from matching Alan Shearer’s record of 260 goals, and his next transfer move will be crucial to whether or not he breaks the former Newcastle striker’s record. 2. Victor Osimhen Napoli forward Victor Osimhen has been one of the most in-form strikers of the 2022/23 season and is set to clinch the Serie A golden boot at the end of the season, having scored 25 goals with one more game week left to play. The Nigerian striker has been linked with a move away from Napoli, with clubs like Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, Manchester United, and Chelsea all rumoured to be interested in the 24-year-old forward. With Benzema set to depart the Bernabeu this summer, Real Madrid could look to the Super Eagles’ forward to replace the French forward. The only drawback to a deal for Osimhen would be the price tag, as Napoli would request at least €150 million to part ways with their star forward. 3. Kylian Mbappe Real Madrid have been long-time admirers of Kylian Mbappe and were close to signing the Paris Saint-Germain forward last summer before he made a dramatic U-turn and signed a two-year extension with an option for a third year with the French club. Mbappe still has eyes for a Madrid move and is unlikely to trigger the option for a further year before the deadline to do so expires this summer. That will leave Mbappe with only one year on his contract and could force PSG into a sale this summer or risk losing the France captain for free next season. Mbappe could be a natural teammate for his former international teammate at Real Madrid thanks to his style of play and lethal finishing, although a move for Mbappe will be just as expensive as one for Osimhen. 4. Erling Haaland After only one season at the Etihad Stadium with Manchester City, it would be bizarre for Erling Haaland to leave, especially if the Cityzens win the treble at the end of the season. Yet the Norwegian’s open admiration of Real Madrid means that a move this summer cannot be ruled out, especially after the teething problems that Haaland faced at Manchester City. The 22-year-old forward appeared frustrated at times during the season, despite scoring a bucketload of goals, as he was isolated upfront due to Manchester City’s struggles at the time. Haaland reportedly has a release clause worth €200 million in 2024 and €175 million in 2025, meaning Real Madrid will have to pay a world-record fee to get Manchester City to let him go. The price of the deal and Manchester City’s recent success will be the biggest stumbling blocks for the move, but with the player noting that he would like to play in Spain, he could push for a change with Benzema gone. 5. Roberto Firmino One deal where price will not be an issue for Real Madrid will be Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino, who will be a free agent when his current deal expires at the end of the season. The Brazilian forward has already said goodbye to the Liverpool faithful after eight seasons with the Reds and has been linked with a move to all three of Spain’s big three teams. With Robert Lewandowski running the show at Barcelona, and potentially soon to be joined by Lionel Messi, Firmino is unlikely to want to play second or third fiddle to them. Instead, a move to Real Madrid, who are currently searching for a leading man following Benzema’s departure would benefit Firmino the most as he could revitalise his career as the club’s focal point in atack. Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria pulsesports.ng/football/story/osimhen-among-5-players-who-could-replace-benzema-at-real-madrid-2023060115544218447
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The Flying Eagles proved many doubters wrong as they stunned hosts Argentina at the ongoing FIFA U20 World Cup. Ladan Bosso's plan were well executed by his boys . The Flying Eagles posted their best performance so far as a team when they humbled Argentina 2-0 at the ongoing FIFA U20 World Cup round of 16 clash. The Nigerian U20 side scored two second half goals to progress into the quarter finals of the competition where they would meet with Ecuador or Korea. Having beaten the most successful nation in the tournament, Nigeria will be looking ahead to win her first U20 World Cup in their history. Here are 5 things Ladan Bosso did right against Argentina 1. Made a cautious approach The Flying Eagles did not come all out like the game against Brazil and they were not scared of the Argentines either. They kept possession and defended as a unit, it was a game of midfield superiority and the likes of Daniel Daga, Tochukwu Nnadi and Samson Lawal were solid and composed. 2. They defended brilliantly The defence line made several blocks from long range and headed clearances which frustrated the Argentinians. Daniel Bameyi and Solomon Agbalaka were magnificent in the wing-back, same as Abel Ogwuche and Benjamin Frederick who defended like their lives depended on it. Credit also goes to goalkeeper Chijioke Aniagboso who made some important saves to keep the scoreline in Nigeria’s favour. 3. Free flow passing game The Nigerian side passed the ball brilliantly to each other despite being pressured by their opponents. Agbalaka, Jude Sunday and Daga did the triangular passing style to open up the midfield and at the other wing, Bameyi, Lawal and Nnadi showed quality when they transitioned into attack. 4. Created chances Though Nigeria made just one serious threat on goal in the first half against Argentina’s seven, they won six corners to show they also have attacking threats. The Argentines were superior in attack but Ladan Bosso’s men were patient till they got their opportunity to score. 5. Exceptional substitutes By the time Riliwanu Sarki and Umeh Emmanuel came in for Jude Sunday and Salim Fago early in the second half, it was obvious Bosso desperately needed a goal. And barely six minutes after the change was made, Umeh gave Muhammed the decisive pass for the striker to score. Victor Eletu’s introduction later on also produced the second goal as the AC Milan star persistence paid off as he pressured the defender before setting up Sarki for a diving header for Nigeria’s second goal. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/argentina-vs-nigeria-5-things-ladan-bosso-men-did-right-against-mascheranos-side-2023060106511487263
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Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount has reportedly agreed personal terms with Manchester United ahead of a summer move to Old Trafford. Mount has been linked with a Chelsea exit over the past few months since it became apparent he would not be renewing his contract at Stamford Bridge. The midfielder had been hoping for vastly improved terms but the Chelsea hierarchy have so far been unwilling to match his expectations despite reports that new boss Mauricio Pochettino would like to keep him. Now, according to the Telegraph, Mount has agreed personal terms to move to Manchester United this summer, with both clubs still yet to agree a transfer fee. The England international has attracted interest from Arsenal and Liverpool but it now appears Erik ten Hag's Manchester United have won the bidding war. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/mason-mount-ready-to-snub-chelsea-to-join-rivals-as-he-agrees-personal-terms-with-manchester-united-2023060106145677554
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PSG forward Kylian Mbappe has been named UNFP Player of the Year for the fourth time in a row, beating teammate Lionel Messi to the prestigious award Paris Saint-Germain forward Kylian Mbappe made history at the UNFP awards after being named Ligue 1 Player of the Year for the fourth consecutive year. Mbappe wins UNFP Ligue 1 Player of the Year Mbappe has scored 28 goals in Ligue 1 this season, helping PSG to back-to-back league titles with a number of sensational appearances this season. The Frenchman is almost certain to win the golden boot for the 2022/23 season, and his impressive performances have also led to him being named the best player in Ligue 1 this campaign. Mbappe has now won the award every year since 2019, with the 2020 season, when the award ceremony did not take place, being the only season where the Frenchman did not win the title. Messi beats Messi and David to award The 24-year-old forward beat competition from teammate Lionel Messi, as well as surprise package Lens’ duo of Lois Openda and Seko Fofana, and Lille’s Canadian forward, Jonathan David. Mbappe has contributed directly to 33 goals in the campaign this season, more than any other player in the league (Messi second with 32) as PSG claimed a record 11th Ligue 1 title, making them the most successful team in French top-flight history. The France captain has one year left on his contract, with the option of a further year, and is considered central to PSG’s future project focusing on French youth but his future remains uncertain with the current turmoil surrounding Les Parisiens. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/mbappe-wins-record-fourth-ligue-1-player-of-the-year-2023052906021494641
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Lewis Hamilton admires Vinicius Junior's bravery following his recent encounter with his racial abusers. Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton has hailed Vinicius Junior on how he has been able to handle his racial abusers. The Real Madrid star was racially abused during a La Liga game between Los Blancos and Valencia at the Mestalla. The whole story Things turned ugly when literally the home fans and some players turned on the Brazilian international. Ugly scenes then ensued as Vinicius was involved in a tussle with a couple of Valencia players and then shown a red card. The incident generated lots of attention from the footballing and political world as the act of racism was condemned against the 22-year-old. The Spanish FA, UEFA, FIFA, coaches, ex-players and the president of Brazil all spoke in one condemning the act. It is now the turn of the seven-time Formula 1 champion Hamilton who was once abused racially to commend the bravery of the 22-year-old. What Hamilton said about the issue Hamilton revealed that he once was the target of racist abuse in his career. He was quoted by Planet Sport: Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/its-so-hurtful-lewis-hamilton-salutes-brave-vinicius-following-racial-abuse-2023052613461038290
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The 27-year-old had sometime in October 2022, sustained an injury in an exhibition game between Smouha and Canal. The world's governing body FIFA has mandated that Egyptian giants Smouha SC compensate Nigerian striker Junior Ajayi for his $70,000 (N31.9 million) worth of lost wages after the club abandoned him in 2022 due to an injury. The 27-year-old sometime in October 2022, sustained an injury in an exhibition game between Smouha and Canal. Ajayi wins case against Smouha SC After being let go by the squad, the former Nigeria U23 star went to FIFA with his grievance, with the body favouring him and ruling that the Alexandria-based team pay Ajayi $70,000 within the coming weeks. Ajayi has played all of his football in North Africa, starting in 2015 with Tunisian side CS Sfaxien before moving to Al Ahly the following year. Over the course of his five-year tenure Al Ahly, the striker had won two CAF Champions League titles before moving on to Libyan club Al-Nasr Benghazi in 2022. He then joined Smouha later in 2022 on a 3 year contract, making it second Egyptian club he's played for. Ajayi started his career with the Nigerian U20 team before moving up to the U23 team, which took home the bronze in the Olympic football competition in Rio de Janeiro in 2016. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/fifa-orders-egyptian-club-smouha-to-pay-nigerian-striker-junior-ajayi-dollar70000-2023052614351663963
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Ranked! Check out the Top 15 of the world's hottest and sexiest female football players on the planet with one Super Falcons of Nigeria star making the list. Football is by far the most popular sport in the world today, with most of the big names in the sport amassing millions of followers over the course of their careers. However, like their male counterparts, female soccer players have also managed to build a reputation for themselves due to their display of talent on the pitch as well as their stunning looks. In fact, football is also a fun sport to watch if you are watching women’s soccer with the amount of beauty often on display on the pitch and on the TV screens. However, like with everything else, the lingering debate of who is the hottest remains a big topic of discussion among football fans today. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 15 most beautiful female footballers based on Pulse Sports survey rankings. Revealed: Top 15 hottest female footballers in the world 2023 RANKED! Below is a list of the Top 15 hottest female football players in the world. 15. Kosovare Asllani Full Name: Kosovare Asllani Born: July 29, 1989 Team/Club: AC Milan Jersey Number: #9 Height: 1.66 m (5 ft 5 in) Instagram: @asllani9 Kosovare Asllani is a 33-year-old Swedish professional footballer who plays as a striker or an attacking midfielder for Italian first division Serie A club AC Milan and the Sweden national team. Nicknamed "Kosse", Asllani possesses great speed and technique in her game and is widely regarded as one of the most talented Swedish female players of her generation. Asllani is also one of the hottest female footballers in the world. She began her club career with Vimmerby IF and has played in the Damallsvenskan for Linköpings FC and hometown club Kristianstads DFF. In the 2010 season she played in the United States, with Chicago Red Stars of Women's Professional Soccer (WPS). She returned to Sweden to play for Kristianstad, before moving to Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City and then back to Linköping. After her departure from Linköpings FC, Asllani signed with CD Tacón/Real Madrid on 18 July 2019. Upon Real Madrid's purchase of their license, CD Tacón began operating as Real Madrid's women's team starting from 2020, making Asllani the first Galáctica. 14. Salma Paralluelo Full Name: Salma Celeste Paralluelo Ayingono Born: November 13, 2003 Team/Club: FC Barcelona Jersey Number: #17 Height: 1.74 m (5 ft 9 in) Instagram: @salmaparalluelo Salma Paralluelo is a 19-year-old Spanish professional footballer and former sprinter who plays as a left winger for Liga F club FC Barcelona and the Spain women's national team. Salma Paralluelo is one of the hottest female footballers in the world in 2023. 13. Taylor Jasmine Hinds Full Name: Taylor Jasmine Hinds Born: April 25, 1999 Team/Club: Liverpool Jersey Number: #12 Height: 1.60 m (5 ft 3 in) Instagram: @taylorhinds_ Taylor Jasmine Hinds is a 24-year-old English footballer who plays as a fullback or midfielder for Liverpool in the Women's Super League. Taylor has represented England on the under-17 and under-19 national teams. She is also one of the hottest female footballers in the world in 2023. Hinds began playing football at the age of ten with the development squad for Northampton Town.[3] She was scouted by an Arsenal staff member and began playing with the junior squad soon after. Taylor Jasmine Hinds has represented Arsenal, Everton, before signing for Liverpool in 2020, with whom she wears the no.12 jersey. 12. Nicole Banecki Full Name: Nicole Banecki Born: September 3, 1988 Team/Club: Bayer Leverkusen Jersey Number: #20 Instagram: @nicolebanecki Nicole Banecki is a 34-year-old German footballer who plays for Bayer 04 Leverkusen. She made her debut in the German national team on 7 March 2008 against Finland. Banecki played for Germany at the 2008 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup finals in Chile. Nicole Banecki currently plays for Bayer Leverkusen women where she wears no.20 jersey. She has also represented clubs like Bayern Munich and FC Basel. Nicole Banecki’s stunning looks places her amongst the hottes female footballers in the world in 2023. As of May 2023, she has over 14.5K followers on Instagram, although her account is private. 11. Michelle Alozie Full Name: Michelle Chinwendu Alozie Born: April 28, 1997 Team/Club: Houston Dash Jersey Number: #22 Height: 1.68 m (5 ft 6 in) Instagram: @alozieee Michelle Alozie is arguably the 'sexiest' and hottest Nigerian female footballer. She currently plays as a forward for National Women's Soccer League team Houston Dash and the Nigeria women's national team. Alozie was born and raised in Apple Valley, California to Nigerian parents from Imo State. 10. Agata Centasso Full Name: Agata Isabella Centasso Born: January 19, 1990 Team/Club: Venezia Calcio Jersey Number: #90 Instagram: @agataisabelva Agata Isabella Centasso is a 33-year-old professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Venezia Calcio and the Italy national team. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/lifestyle/story/revealed-hottest-female-footballers-in-the-world-ranked-2023052419423043852
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Manchester United thrashed Chelsea by four goals, so here are four records set on a woeful night for the Blues and their fans. Premier League giants Manchester United are back in the Champions League following an easy night against Chelsea at Old Trafford. United thrashed their visitors 4-1 with two goals in either half to wrap up Champions League qualification with a game to spare on Thursday night. Casemiro, Anthony Martial, Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford were the scorers on the night for the Red Devils while Joao Felix came off the bench to score a late consolation for the woeful Blues. On what was a special night for the Reds, some interesting records were set. Here are four of the records. Milestone for Erik Ten Hag - the fifth The Dutchman who is in his first season at the club has performed magic with the Red this season. With the win against Chelsea wrapping up Champions League football, Ten Hag has become only the first manager in United’s history to achieve that feat in his first season in charge. Marcus Rashford milestone - 30 goals After missing the club’s last two matches due to an injury, the England international returned sooner than he expected after Antony was forced off injured in the first half against Chelsea. Rashford went on to score the fourth goal of the night, his 30th of the season, to become the first Man Utd player to reach 30 in a single campaign since Robin van Persie in 2012-13, and the first to hit 20 at Old Trafford since Wayne Rooney in 2009-10. Chelsea claim unwanted record - 22 defeats It has been a long and difficult season for the Blues whose painful defeat at Old Trafford was the 22nd of the season in all competitions. Another unwanted Chelsea record - Casemiro's effect Casemiro may be playing in his first season in the Premier League but his impact has been felt especially by Chelsea. The Brazilian opened the scoring on Thursday night, his second goal in two matches against the Blues. His goal tonight earned Chelsea an unwanted record as they have now conceded the first goal in 17 different Premier League games this season – only in 1993-94 (22) and 1992-93 (18) have they done so more in a single campaign. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/man-united-vs-chelsea-4-records-reds-humiliated-woeful-blues-2023052522154141726
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Cristiano Ronaldo will not get to enjoy a familiar face at Al-Nassr anytime soon as former Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has reportedly turned down a lucrative offer to join him in Saudi Arabia Former Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has reportedly turned down a mega offer to join former trainee Cristiano Ronaldo at Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr. Zidane turns down Al-Nassr Zidane and Ronaldo conquered Europe during their time at Real Madrid, winning the UEFA Champions League three times in a row in an unprecedented run. The French manager and Ronaldo both left Real Madrid after their third UCL title together and while the manager returned to Los Blancos, the Portuguese superstar found solace elsewhere. After leaving Real Madrid for a second time as manager, Zidane has been picky with new jobs, rejecting most new offers while waiting for the perfect opportunity. The former Real Madrid manager had been holding out for the France national team job, but he was passed over for incumbent manager Didier Deschamps, sparking a row that led to the resignation of the president of France’s Football Federation. Zidane still waiting for perfect job Zidane has decided to keep waiting for a club that suits him and after reportedly turning down offers from London clubs Chelsea and Tottenham, he is now reported to have turned down a move from the gulf as well. Al-Nassr’s offer is believed to be worth €150 million over two seasons, but the money and the prospect of re-uniting with Ronaldo are apparently not strong enough motivators for Zidane to come out of his hiatus. Zidane is believed to be the preferred choice to take over from current Paris Saint-Germain coach Christophe Galtier, and the prospect of taking over the most prosperous team in his native France might be the key factor that convinces him to finally end his sabbatical. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/zidane-turns-down-naira74-billion-offer-to-reunite-with-cristiano-ronaldo-2023052606352803223
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Former Juventus and AC Milan midfielder Andrea Pirlo has been sacked as manager of Turkish club Fatih Karagumruk after a disappointing spell in charge. Andrea Pirlo has been sacked as manager of Turkish Super Lig club Fatih Karagumruk in his first season in charge. Andrea Pirlo sacked again Pirlo signed a one-year deal last summer to take charge of Karagumruk. The goal was to try to take them into European places but with the Turkish top-flight season almost over, the Legendary Italian has been removed from the manager's position, with the club sitting in ninth place. n a club statement on Twitter, Fatih Karagumruk said: "Since we can't continue with Mr. Andrea Pirlo and his staff next season, we gave them permission to leave soon hoping it will give them a chance to plan their future. "We will also use the remaining time in the most effective way to first win all of our games and then plan our future accordingly." Pirlo's first management job was at Juventus, but he was sacked after the 2020-21 season because of the team's poor performances in the Champions League and Serie A. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/andrea-pirlo-sacked-again-as-coaching-struggles-continue-for-juventus-legend-2023052507294693140
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Real Madrid's electric Brazilian has been the subject of racial abuse more than any other player in LaLiga this season. Real Madrid's Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr has labelled La Liga and Spain racist after following the latest attack of racial slurs launched from the stands in Los Blancos’ 1-0 defeat against Valencia at the Mestalla stadium on Sunday, May 20, 2023. Ever since the conclusion of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and prior to the global showpiece, Vinicius has been the subject of racial abuse from fans in Spain. LaLiga has filed not less than nine complaints against racism this season alone, a testament to the cankerworm that continues to rock the apex division of Spanish football. However, it is pertinent to note that Spain is not the only country suffering from racism in its football stadiums. Racism continues to be a lingering problem in Italian football as well, and authorities have been heavily criticised for not taking sufficient action. In April, Over 170 Juventus fans were hit with stadium bans for chanting racist abuse aimed at Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku during a Coppa Italia semi-final earlier that month. That would not be the first time the Belgian striker had been the subject of racial abuse in the Italian Serie A, as more players have also been hit with discriminatory remarks prior to that incident. In July 2021, England forwards Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka were similarly abused after missing penalties in the Euro 2020 final. In December 2022, France national team players, including star forward Kylian Mbappe, were racially abused online after they lost the World Cup final to Argentina. However, these recent cases amongst others which have also been condemned publicly by the governing bodies in football continue to happen questioning many as to when it will finally end. Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr has constantly spoken out against the horrific racial chants he has suffered from, especially in the 2022-23 LaLiga season which has already been won by Los Blancos’ arch-rivals, Barcelona. The talented 22-year-old Brazil international has already established himself as arguably the most electrifying winger on the planet. However, for all of his amazing exploits on the pitch, he continues to suffer racial abuse while plying his trade in LaLiga, leading many fans to encourage him to push for a move away from the Spanish capital ahead of the summer transfer window. In this article, we will be reviewing 7 incidents where Vinicius Junior was racially abused in Spanish football. Vinícius Jr: 8 episodes that the Real Madrid star was racially abused in Spanish football 1. Vinícius Jr. was the subject of racist chants ahead of Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid - September 18, 2022 During the first Madrid derby of the 2022-23 LaLiga season, Vinicus suffered racial abuse from a host of Atleti fans even before kick-off. Reports stated that Atleti fans were seen singing ‘Vinicius, you are a monkey’ outside of the Civitas Metropolitano ahead of the match. An incident that reportedly went largely unpunished. Prior to that fixture, Atletico Madrid midfielder and team captain Koke Resurreccion was asked about Vinicius’ dance moves while celebrating a goal and suggested at the possibility of Atleti fans reacting poorly if he were to dance at the Metropolitano. “At the end of the day if he scores a goal and decides to dance it’s his call. To each his own and everyone celebrates the way he likes,” said Koke. However, when Koke was asked about whether or not he would understand the fans at the Wanda if they were to react poorly to Vinicius’ celebrations. “There would be trouble for sure, it’s normal,” the Spanish midfielder added. 2. Vinícius Jr racist chants in Real Valladolid vs Real Madrid match - December 30, 2022 As mentioned earlier, Vinicius experienced a lot of racial abuse following the conclusion of the FIFA 2022 World Cup in Qatar. In Madrid’s first match after the Qatar showpiece in December, Vinicius Jr was racially abused by Real Valladolid fans, as Los Blancos recorded a 2-0 win at the Estadio Jose Zorrilla. A six-minute brace from Karim Benzema in the final 10 minutes of the second half was enough to give Madrid all three points. However, Vinicius who was taken off in the 88th minute for Luka Modric was on the receiving end of racist chants from Valladolid fans. 3. Atletico Madrid fans hung a Vinícius Jr mannequin from road bridge ahead of their Copa del Rey match against Real Madrid Vinicius was the object of the Atleti fans’ hatred once more. Ahead of their Copa del Rey quarter-final at the Santiago Bernabeu on January 26, Atleti fans hung a banner from an overpass with the slogan ‘Madrid hates Real’. Hanging below that banner was a mannequin, wearing a Vinicius Junior shirt. Diario AS reported that the ‘Frente Atletico’ group were likely behind the incident. With ties to the far right and a history of violence, the group remain highly active. Posters from Frente Atletico have also been hung around Madrid with the same slogan. However, it remains unclear whether any action was taken, as the video already went viral on social media. 4. Vinícius Jr suffered racial abuse in RCD Mallorca’s shock win against Real Madrid, February 5, 2023 Real Madrid suffered a shock 1-0 loss against Mallorca in LaLiga - February 5, 2023. A 13th-minute own goal from Nacho Fernandez was enough to give the hosts all three points a the Estadi de Son Moix. During the match, Mallorca fans were filmed racially abusing Real Madrid's Brazilian forward Vinicius Jr. during the game. Reuters reported that supporters could be heard calling the 22-year-old Brazilian player ‘a monkey’ in a video published by streaming company DAZN on social media. 5. Vinícius Jr. was reportedly racially abused in Real Betis vs Real Madrid - March 5, 2023 After Real Madrid's 0-0 draw with Real Betis in LaLiga this season, footage captured a Betico supporter shouting racial insults at Vinicius Junior, leading La Liga to take legal action again. Following that incident, LaLiga claimed it had filed a complaint for the seventh time over racial abuse suffered by Vinicius Junior. A statement from the league via Sportmob read: "In view of the racist insults directed towards Vinicius Junior during the Real Betis-Real Madrid match on Sunday, March 5, LaLiga has sent a complaint to the Seville Court of Instruction in order to identify the person responsible and to take the appropriate legal measures. "This is the seventh complaint made to the relevant authorities by LaLiga regarding racist insults against Vinicius Junior." 6. LaLiga filed a complaint to Barcelona court after racist abuse of Vinícius Jr. in El Clásico Vinícius continued to suffer racial abuse this season including against Madrid’s eternal rivals FC Barcelona. Real Madrid suffered a 2-1 defeat against Barcelona on March 19, 2023, in LaLiga. However, as per CNN, La Liga reportedly filed a complaint to a Barcelona court following the game after reports emerged that Vinicius was yet again the subject of racial abuse. “In view of the events that took place at the FC Barcelona-Real Madrid match, in which intolerable racist behaviour was once again observed against Vinicius Jr, LaLiga has reported the racist insults to the Barcelona Court of Instruction,” LaLiga said in a statement on Thursday, March 23, 2023. LaLiga has also set up a complaints channel on its website to allow fans to submit information that might help identify the perpetrators. CNN also added in the report that FC Barcelona did not immediately respond to their request for comment. When asked to explain how it failed to identify the fans who racially abused Vinícius at FC Barcelona’s Camp Nou stadium on October 24, 2021, the Barcelona prosecutor said they are not able to reveal details as the investigation is private. “What is clear is that they analyzed all the evidence they had and did not identify, in this case, any perpetrator,” they told CNN in a statement. 7. Spanish agent Pedro Bravo likens Vinicius Jr to 'a monkey' on Live TV Pedro Bravo, the president of the Spanish agents’ association, was asked about Vinicius’ celebrations on Spanish television on Thursday, and said Vinicius ‘has to respect (his) mates and stop playing the monkey’. The comments sparked a backlash against Bravo and a flood of support for Vinicius from Brazilian football greats like Pele and Neymar. “They say happiness is annoying. The happiness of a victorious black Brazilian in Europe bothers much more,” Vinicius wrote on Instagram. “But my desire to win, my smile and the twinkle in my eyes are much bigger than that. You can't even imagine. “I was a victim of xenophobia and racism in one statement. But none of that started yesterday. Weeks ago, they started criminalising my dancing. “Dances that are not mine. They belong to Ronaldinho, Neymar, (Lucas) Paqueta, (Antoine) Griezmann, João Felix, Matheus Cunha... Brazilian funk and samba artists, reggaeton singers, and black Americans. “They are dances to celebrate the cultural diversity of the world. Accept it, respect it. I’m not going to stop.” “I always try to be a professional and an exemplary citizen. But that doesn’t click, doesn’t trend on the internet, or motivates cowards to aggressively talk about people they don’t even know,” Vinicius added. “The script always ends with an apology and ‘I was misunderstood.’ But I repeat it to you racist: I will not stop dancing.” However, Bravo has since apologised for his offensive remarks, saying he used the expression ‘metaphorically’ as a way of expressing that Vinicius was ‘doing stupid things’. 8. Vinicius Jr suffers racial abuse from Valencia fans before getting sent off - May 21, 2023 Vinicius Jr said "La Liga belongs to racists" after he was again racially abused by opposition fans during a match over the weekend. The 22-year-old Brazil international was sent off for violent conduct in the 97th minute in Real Madrid’s 1-0 La Liga defeat against Valencia at the Mestalla Stadium after an altercation with Hugo Duro. Earlier in the game, Vinicius visibly attempted to bring Valencia fans to the referee's attention. BBC Sport reported that two fans who racially abused Vinicius have been identified and are expected to be given permanent stadium bans by Valencia. Following the game, Vinicius took to social media to hit out against the racial abuse he suffered on Sunday afternoon. Vinicius wrote on his official Instagram page: "The championship that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano and Messi today belongs to racists," "It wasn't the first time, nor the second, nor the third. Racism is normal in La Liga. The competition thinks it's normal, the federation does too and the opponents encourage it. "A beautiful nation, which welcomed me and which I love, but which agreed to export the image of a racist country to the world. I'm sorry for the Spaniards who don't agree, but today, in Brazil, Spain is known as a country of racists. "And unfortunately, for everything that happens each week, I have no defence. I agree. But I am strong and I will go to the end against racists. Even if far from here." Source: Pulse Sports
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Lionel Messi will become joint-top player with the most trophies if PSG wins Ligue 1. The Argentine superstar won the World Cup and Copa America in 2022. Lionel Messi is set to become to the most decorated player in football history should Pars Saint-Germain emerge Ligue 1 champions. The Argentine icon has won 41 trophies in his career and would equal Dani Alves’ record of 42 if the French league title remains in Paris. Messi’s collection Former Barcelona stars Andres Iniesta and Maxwell have won 39 amd 37 trophies respectively, leaving them in third and fourth position. Among the trophies in Messi’s cabinet includes the World Cup and Copa America which he won in the past year, then four Champions Legaue titles, 10 La Liga trophies, Club World Cup and many more. PSG’s edge closer to another title PSG took a step closer in winning the Ligue 1 title following their 2-1 over Auxerre with Kylian Mbappe scoring a brace and Messi assiting one. The Parisians are now six points above their closest rival Lens with two games left to play and a win for PSG win earn them the league title as well as Messi’s second since joining the club last summer. Messi’s future at PSG However, it is unlikely for the 7-time Ballon d’Or winner to stay beyond the summer at Parc des Princes after fans demanded that he should leave the club. Messi recently flew to Saudi Arabia for a commercial without the club’s permission as fans staged a protest asking the Argentine to the club. Barcelona are already preparing to accept their former captain back to the Camp Nou with several reports liniking him to his boyhood club. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/lionel-messi-psg-star-set-to-beat-alves-iniesta-as-worlds-most-decorated-football-star-2023052209081730535
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Football coaches are the primary brain behind every team's success in football as far as trophies are concerned. In this article, we will be reviewing the list of highest-paid coaches in world football in 2023. Football managers work in a highly stressful environment, but their efforts has seen them rewarded accordingly, with some boasting wages that place them amongst the highest-paid coaches in the world. The highest-paid coaches in the world basically earn annual salaries in the millions of dollars. They are frequently contracted by high-profile, and respected clubs or teams and are also subject to certain to strict terms and conditions. These coaches are tasked with the responsibility of establishing team standards and facilitating victories on the pitch. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/revealed-the-highest-paid-football-managers-in-the-world-2023052118565471385
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Premier League champions Manchester City defeated Chelsea 1-0 at the Etihad to kickstart celebrations on trophy day. Manchester City were supposed to win the league after defeating Chelsea but Arsenal's defeat on Saturday evening against Nottingham Forest made sure City won the league without kicking a ball. Guardiola's men still got the job done though, Julain Alvarez who started in place of Erling Haaland, registered the only goal of the game. How it happened In spite of the numerous changes made by Pep Guardiola, it took the Citizens less than 15 minutes to take the lead. Cole Palmer’s deft ball found Julián Álvarez, who made no mistake when firing beyond Kepa Arrizabalaga and into the corner. Chelsea came close when they struck the post through Conor Gallagher’s header, but City still had their noses in front at the interval. City thought they had doubled their lead when Riyad Mahrez ghosted in behind and squared for Álvarez to tap home his second of the afternoon, a brief VAR check showed the Algerian had controlled the ball with his arm. The decision proved to be immaterial in the grand scheme of things, however, as City comfortably held on to secure a 12th successive PL victory. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/man-city-vs-chelsea-party-mood-at-the-etihad-as-peps-men-swat-blues-aside-to-lift-pl-trophy-2023052116592920299
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After securing the 2022/23 Premier League title, Manchester City have joined an elite list of English teams who have won the top-flight league three times in a row, find out who all five teams are Manchester City’s latest Premier League title put them among the best teams in the history of the sport, as they became only the fifth side in English football history to win three top-flight titles in a row. Huddersfield 1924-1926 Huddersfield became the first club in English football history to win three consecutive English League titles after becoming champions in the 1923/24, 1924/25, and 1925/26 seasons, following up their first-ever league win with two more. Huddersfield became the first club in English football history to win three consecutive English League titles after becoming champions in the 1923/24, 1924/25, and 1925/26 seasons, following up their first-ever league win with two more. The second league win of Chapman’s Arsenal career started a chain of three league wins between 1933 and 1935 as the Gunners powered through the manager's death to become the second side to win a threepeat in the English Football League. Chapman won the first of three consecutive titles under Chapman in 1933, and they were on course to win the second when Chapman died in 1934. They still secured the title with caretaker coach Joe Shaw in charge, before also claiming the 1935 trophy under George Allison. Liverpool 1982-1984 Liverpool’s incredible era under iconic manager Bob Paisley saw them come dramatically close to winning three titles in a row under the record-breaking Englishman, but they were only able to complete their treble one season after he retired as manager. Paisley won six English Football League titles with Liverpool and became the first manager to win three European Cup titles, but the most he could manage was two in a row of both. Liverpool won the final two league titles of Paisley’s reign in 1982 and 1983 and completed the threepeat with a victory under one of Paisley’s former players, Joe Fagan, in 1984. They were stopped from reaching four title wins in a row by crosstown neighbours Everton, who beat them to the 1985 title by 13 points. Manchester United 1999-2001, 2006-2009 Manchester United’s Sir Alex Ferguson became the first manager to win three top-flight league titles in a row in English Football, surviving a rough start as the Red Devils’ manager to win three consecutive Premier League titles twice. His first run of titles came after winning the European Cup, league, and FA Cup treble in the 1998/99 season, as Manchester United built on that success to defend the Premier League title twice in the 1999/00 and 2000/01 seasons. Ferguson repeated the feat by winning the Premier League title three times between 2006 and 2009 with another UEFA Champions League title in 2008 sweetening the achievement even more. Manchester City 2021-2023 Before Pep Guardiola, Ferguson held the record for being the only manager to win the English top flight three times. However, with Arsenal’s defeat against Nottingham Forest, the Manchester City manager joined the legendary coach from the other side of the Manchester divide to become the only managers to win three titles in a row. Guardiola has now won five Premier League titles in seven years as Manchester City manager after he became the first gaffer to defend the title since Ferguson retired by winning the league in the 2017/18 and 2018/19 seasons. He followed that success up by winning three titles in a row between 2021 and 2023 to also become the first manager since Ferguson to win the league title three times in a row. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/manchester-city-and-the-5-teams-to-win-the-premier-league-titles-three-times-in-a-row-2023052107483855387
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Arsenal's title challenge officially ended after defeat to Nottingham Forest, but which players should take the bulk of the blame for bottling their best chance to win the Premier League in over a decade? Arsenal lost the Premier League title to Manchester City after months of leading the way. At one point, the Gunners led by as many as 11 points, and although City had games in hand, it looked as though the momentum could not be halted. After Saturday’s defeat to Nottingham Forest, Mikel Arteta’s side have officially surrendered the PL title to Manchester City, who smelled blood and never looked back. We highlight five players to blame for the unforgivable collapse. 1 . Bukayo Saka It seems absurd to blame a player who has excelled this season and could very well be named to the PL team of the year. However, when it mattered most, he was nowhere to be found. One goal in his last nine league games speaks volumes of his shocking drop off and his sub-par performances coincided with the Gunners collapse. 2. Granit Xhaka He started the season brilliantly but faded like the rest of his teammates. Almost unforgivable considering he is one of the most experienced players at Arteta’s disposal. He will leave the club this summer, but it is hard to imagine him remembering this season fondly. 3. Thomas Partey Yet another one of the experienced heads who fell away when he needed to stand up and be counted. Countless poor performances followed what had been an excellent season up to that point. He eventually lost his place in the starting lineup but the damage had already been done 4. Gabriel Jesus For all of his skill and endeavor, Gabriel Jesus is just not clinical enough to lead a team to the promised land. His catalogue of missed chances goes on and on, and Mikel Arteta must seriously consider bringing in a top-level goal scorer to supplement the Brazilian if Arsenal aim to push on next season. 5. Rob Holding Arsenal’s collapse somewhat coincided with the injury to first choice defender William Saliba. Rob Holding was asked to step in, and he did an atrocious job. The Gunners began to leak goals for fun, most notably at the Etihad, losing 4-1. He was eventually dropped, but once again, the damage had been done. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/5-players-to-blame-for-arsenals-premier-league-collapse-2023052019425176426
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After the collapse earlier this year, Tyson Fury is now ready to fight Oleksandr Usyk at Wembley. Tyson Fury, the WBC champion, has made contact with Oleksandr Usyk in an effort to restart negotiations for a fight at Wembley this summer. When Fury and Usyk appeared to have reached an agreement on a date, location, and purse split, the heavyweight division appeared to be on track to get its first undisputed champion since Lennox Lewis. However, since this is boxing, the discussions, which were made public on social media, broke down when the Ukrainian team withdrew because they didn't feel they were receiving a fair offer. As soon as possible, the Gypsy King accused his opponent of being a coward and of fleeing out of fear. After searching unsuccessfully for several months, Fury has now contacted Usyk directly to arrange the fight. Tyson Fury's message to Oleksandr Usyk He said, “I’m sick of all this back and forward ‘he said, she said’. Why don’t we just do this? "Why don’t we fight this summer, me and you, at Wembley stadium for the percentage you’ve already agreed. "And if you want the rematch so desperately, you can have one. I don’t need rematches, I don’t need nothing because I’m going to cut you down like cheese. "So here’s the offer. Let’s do the fight at Wembley this summer, me and you. "Forget about fighting Deontay Wilder who I’ve knocked out twice, and forget about fighting Daniel Dubois who’s not on our levels. You’ve already beat Joshua. The only fight left is me and you for undisputed. "I know you didn’t fancy it the first time so let’s see if we can rekindle it and have a good fight for the fans. Let’s get it on! Make the right decision.” Usyk is expected to defend his championship against Daniel Dubois, while a Fury match is planned for later this year in Saudi Arabia. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/boxing/story/tyson-fury-begs-oleksandr-usyk-to-restart-negotiations-for-undisputed-fight-2023052015353537483
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With Taiwo Awoniyi, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho facing decisive Premier League denouements, we examine their survival prospects and rank each player’s chances of securing top-flight moves if their current teams go down. Paul Onuachu and Joe Aribo suffered the ignominy of relegation with Southampton last weekend after a 24th defeat of the season at Fulham confirmed what we all knew months back. Eight Premier League Nigerians have been cut to six, but the latter are not safe from the relegation scrap – save for Frank Onyeka, whose Brentford are ninth. Deeply embroiled in the battle for survival are Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City), Alex Iwobi (Everton) and Taiwo Awoniyi and Emmanuel Dennis (Nottingham Forest), with their respective clubs facing two decisive gameweeks in the next eight days to determine their futures. Leicester’s Nigerians face tough run-in Ndidi and Iheanacho’s Foxes are winless in four, picking up two points from an available 12, but the manner of the two recent losses have rankled. Dean Smith had looked to play more front-foot football, but that has come at a defensive cost, as the East Midlands side have shipped 15 goals in six games under Brendan Rodgers’ replacement (2.5 goals conceded per game) while scoring eight times. In Rodgers’s final six league fixtures, those numbers were 10 goals against and five scored. Iheanacho could play a pivotal part in the Foxes’ daunting trip to Champions League-chasing Newcastle United and Europa Conference League finalists West Ham United, having recovered from the injury sustained while helping to set up Leicester’s equaliser in the 1-1 draw at Leeds United. Ndidi has been in and out of the side, starting half of Smith’s six games, but the defensive midfielder should feature in some capacity for the 19th-placed outfit, who could go down this weekend if they are beaten at Newcastle, and Everton defeats Wolverhampton Wanderers. Alex Iwobi's survival ambition Everton may have followed that stunning 5-1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion with an expected 3-0 loss at the hands of champions-elect Manchester City, but they could ensure survival in round 37 if they secure maximum points against Wolves and Leeds and Leicester falter at West Ham and Newcastle, respectively. Iwobi’s performances have mostly remained consistent despite the Toffees’ struggles, and much will depend on Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s fitness. The centre-forward was withdrawn at half-time against Pep Guardiola’s men, but Sean Dyche disclosed that the 26-year-old was set to rejoin training on Friday. Iwobi has played a pivotal part under Dyche, as he did under the manager’s predecessor, and the former Arsenal man is likely to be trusted in the next two fixtures. Awoniyi’s strong finish at Forest While Emmanuel Dennis signed for the Tricky Trees in mid-August, the former Watford man has played minimally all season, playing from the start six times and coming on as a substitute on 12 occasions. Dennis has played 12 minutes since mid-April, even failing to make the last two squads. Awoniyi has played a more prominent role for Steve Cooper’s men, even if the centre-forward’s campaign was interrupted by a two-month groin injury that saw the player miss nine Premier League games. A pair of braces in successive games against Southampton (4-3 win) and Chelsea (2-2) have taken the Super Eagle’s tally to eight, jointly leading the club’s scoring charts with Brennan Johnson. The 16th-placed Forest hosts Arsenal in Saturday’s tea-time clash, with a victory over the league’s second-best team nearly guaranteeing survival and participation next season. They close out the season with a trip to Crystal Palace. Admittedly, only two of Leicester, Everton and Forest will be relegated. But we rank the likelihood of said players getting moves to Premier League sides if their current teams fail to beat the drop. Alex Iwobi Possibly the most consistent player in the league’s bottom half, Iwobi’s performances in an otherwise second-rate Everton side have been commendable. The versatile Super Eagle leads the way for almost every attacking metric, with no teammate outdoing the Nigerian’s seven assists, 61 key passes, 128 passes into the final third, 59 passes into the penalty area and 15 crosses into the 18-yard box. Only Idrissa Gueye and Dwight McNeil edge Iwobi for per 90 metrics in crosses into the penalty area per 90 and passes into the final third. Iwobi has played more in-play passes (86) leading to shot attempts, and eight open-play passes have led to goals. With one year remaining on the contract he signed in 2019, Everton could cash in on the midfielder this summer if they do not beat the drop. Taiwo Awoniyi If Forest fails to beat the drop, there is a feeling Awoniyi could be coveted by newly-promoted sides or top-flight teams, even if the five-year deal signed when he moved to the City Ground could be a stumbling block. The ex-Union striker proved himself in one of Europe’s top-five leagues in 2021-22 and has shown enough in the Premier League that last season was not a one-off.Kelechi Iheanacho ‘Seniorman’ is a statistical darling for making much from so little, and the forward could be a beneficiary of his profile. Iheanacho has never been first-choice for a sustained period at the King Power Stadium, but the former Manchester City frontman could be one of the players sold by the Foxes due to his contract expiring in 2024. With a knack for scoring from nothing and intermittently facilitating teammates, ‘Seniorman’ could be acquired for a cut-price fee this summer. Wilfred Ndidi A succession of injuries in the last four campaigns have lessened Ndidi’s Premier League appearances. The Leicester man started 33 and 37 games in 2017-18 and the following season, respectively, but game time has dwindled. The subsequent four campaigns have seen the defensive midfielder play from the off 29 (2019-20), 25 (2020-21) and 18 (2021-22) times, while 18 starts have been made this term. No longer first-choice at the Foxes and certainly not in the top category among players in similar roles, Ndidi’s stock has fallen. With injuries a continued bugbear, it remains to be seen who takes a gamble on the Super Eagle despite his expiring contract in 2024. Emmanuel Dennis Despite a commendable start at Watford in 2021-22, Dennis has shown little to earn another Premier League move. Having four years to go on his contract could deter sides looking for a forward, with the absence of any meaningful contribution not helping his cause. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/awoniyi-iwobi-ndidi-and-iheanacho-which-nigerian-will-remain-in-the-premier-league-2023051920473013364
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The contract of current Super Eagles head coach Jose Peseiro is to expire in June this year. The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) are reportedly meeting with the representatives of former Romanian football star Adrian Mutu, as a part of plans to succeed current Super Eagles manager Jose Peseiro. Since retiring from a professional playing career that saw him feature for the likes of Chelsea, Inter Milan, Juventus, Fiorentina, Parma and Ajaccio, the Romanian has served as an assistant coach, a club general manager, a sporting director and a head coach. Peseiro reportedly being denied new Super Eagles contract With a contract expiring in June 2023, the Super Eagles could see its current head coach Jose Peseiro leave his position, following suggestions that he would not be offered a contract extension by the NFF. Peseiro, however, is expected to remain in charge of Nigeria's senior men's football national team for the final two Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Sierra Leone in June, and Sao Tome and Principe later in September. Since taking over as head coach of the Super Eagles in May 2022, Nigeria have struggled to mark improvements, with the team winning three, and losing six of their nine matches under the Portuguese. Most notable of Peseiro's achievements with the Super Eagles would be leading the team to its highest-scoring fixture in history, pummeling Sao Tome and Principe 10-0 in an AFCON qualifier in June 2022. Mutu, leading candidate to replace Peseiro As initially reported by OGN, the NFF are looking to bring in either one of former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane or Mutu who has been at the helm of six-time Romanian champions Rapid Bucuresti, since March 2022. Further reports according to NSM media's Wale Ajayi suggest that Mutu’s representatives are already in Nigeria and are actively pursuing a verbal agreement with the NFF. Mutu led Rapid to a 9th-place finish in the 2021/22 season of the Romanian Superliga, winning seven of the 10 matches he oversaw. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/report-super-eagles-to-likely-get-new-coach-as-nff-open-conversations-with-adrian-mutu-2023051915194580742
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Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola no doubt are the two top managers of this generation but the Portuguese gaffer has won more trophies in Europe than his Spanish counterpart Jose Mourinho is on the verge of adding another European laurel to his collection after his side Roma qualified into the Europa League final. If the Serie A side beat Sevilla in the final, it will be his third trophy in the elite competition and will also make him one of the most successful managers in world football. On the other hand, Pep Guardiola is also aiming to clinch three trophies this season including the Premier League, Champions League and the FA Cup. It will be the Spanish manager’s third Champions League title if Manchester City overcomes Inter Milan in the final in Istanbul. However, there are some undeniable facts that proves that Mourinho is a better manager than his Spanish counterpart, Guardiola in terms of winning continental trophies. Here are three reasons Mourinho will still be rated higher than Pep 1. Number of trophies in Europe Mourinho won the Europa League with FC Porto in 2003, then the following year won the Champions League with the same side in 2004. After the Portuguese gaffer unexpectedly left Chelsea in 2007, he clinched Inter's first European title in over 30 years and his second as a manager in 2010. However, Pep’s only success in Europe was when he won the Champions League twice with Barcelona in 2009 and 2011. 2. Mourinho won continental titles with a not too expensive squad FC Porto under Mourinho had the likes of Deco, Ricardo Carvarlho and Paulo Ferreira and they defied the odds when they beat several top European sides. The same crop of players won the Europa League and the Champions League within the space of a year before repeating it with Inter then the Conference League with Roma. It will not be fair to say Pep did not win a trophy with a small side because he has continued to manage clubs that spend hugely in the transfer window. 3. Guardiola failed to win the Champions League with another club The Spanish tactician is arguably the best manager in the world and over the years his possessive style of play has won him many trophies mostly on the domestic scene. But Guardiola spent three years at Bayern Munich without winning the Champions League. The closest he came to winning the Champions League title with Man City was making it into the final in 2021 before losing to Chelsea. Pep is already in the 2022-23 final and will be hoping to break the jinx On the other hand, Mourinho has had more luck in winning continental trophies with smaller clubs the likes of Porto, Inter and Roma despite handling the likes of Real Madrid and Man United. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/3-reasons-mourinho-will-still-be-rated-higher-than-guardiola-after-european-success-this-season-2023051911401494608
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Erica Herman has accused her ex and famous golfer, Tiger Woods of sexual harassment. Here is what you need to know about her. Tiger Woods’ legacy in golf cannot be understated nor overemphasized. The 47-year-old California native is tied for first in PGA Tour wins, ranks second in men's major championships, and holds numerous golf records. Woods is widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers of all time and is one of the most famous athletes in modern history. He is an inductee of the World Golf Hall of Fame and one of the richest sportsmen in the world as of May 2023. However, Woods has quite a record of making the news for the wrong reasons, from his relationships to his lifestyle and battle with drugs. Pulse Sports reported that Erica Herman, the ex-girlfriend of the 47-year-old golfer, accused him of sexual harassment in a new filing for her lawsuit against Woods Erica filed to have an NDA (non-disclosure agreement) nullified, and in the new court documents, obtained by HollywoodLife, she claimed that Tiger “decided to pursue a sexual relationship” with her after she was hired at his restaurant in South Florida. “A boss imposing different work conditions on his employee because of their sexual relationship is sexual harassment,” her lawyer said in the documents. According to a report from People, Erica Herman had been employed as a manager at The Woods Jupiter since 2015. In March 2023, Erica Herman claimed that Tiger Woods owes her $30 million for locking her out of his home after the pair broke up in October 2022. According to TMZ Sports who gained access to the legal documents, Herman spelt her grievances out, alleging Tiger Woods made her sign an NDA at the start of their relationship around August 2017 - the NDA which she now says is being wrongfully enforced on her. The report adds that Herman says she's seeking clarity from the court here because, according to her, she's eager to share her experiences with Woods. Therefore, she wants a judge to declare the NDA invalid and unenforceable. Tiger Woods and Erica Herman dated for several years before ending things towards the end of 2022. Herman was spotted with Woods at nearly every event since their relationship started. The last time they were seen together was last summer in Ireland as Woods prepared for the 150th Open Championship at St. Andrews. 11 things to know about Tiger Wood’s ex-girlfriend, Erica Herman amid reported $30 million lawsuit 1. Who is Erica Herman? Erica Herman is a former restaurant manager who is best recognized as the former girlfriend of golf legend Tiger Woods whom she has been dating since 2017 until their split in 2022. She has worked at Aura Bar & Restaurant in Florida as well as at Wood’s Jupiter restaurant located in the same state. Herman frequently accompanied Tiger Woods to various events. Despite being labelled a ‘gold-digger’ by some media sources, Herman is believed to be a caring and loyal partner by many fans of the golfer. 2. How old is Erica Herman? Erica Herman was born on February 15, 1984, in the USA. As of May 2023, Herman is 39 years old. 3. Erica Herman’s parents Erica Herman was born and raised in Palm Beach County, Florida. She grew up with her elder brother named, Scott and ended Santaluces High School in the early 2000s where she was a cheerleader. According to The Famous People, some of her family members had been in trouble with the law in the past and were arrested on drug-related charges. Herman’s brother Scott was once arrested for marijuana possession. 4. She has a Law Degree Tiger Woods’ ex-girlfriend Erica Herman, attended Palm Beach State College and the University of Central Florida. She graduated in May 2008 with a bachelor's degree in legal studies. 5. She has worked in the hospitality industry most of her career Although Tiger Wood’s ex-girlfriend Erica Herman has a law degree, most of her career has been in the hospitality industry. While at the University in Orlando, she first worked as a bartender and eventually became a VIP manager at the Blue Martini lounge. Herman reportedly had plans to open a string of nightclubs in Florida with two business partners and a local investor. However, the plan did not come to fruition. Before working at Tiger Wood’s flagship restaurant, she had also worked at Aura Bar & Restaurant in Florida. 6. She dated Tiger Woods for 5 years Tiger Woods and Erica Herman began dating in 2017, after the pair met at one of the golfer’s establishments. According to Golf.com, Erica used to manage one of Tiger’s restaurants back in Florida. Their first public appearance was at the President’s Cup in 2017, in which Erica rocked a bright red polo and khaki shorts to the tournament in Jersey City, NJ. However, five years into their relationship which was mostly kept private, Page Six reported on March 8, 2023, that Tiger Woods’ ex–girlfriend Erica Herman, filed to have her non-disclosure agreement from the pro golfer overruled, in a major signal that their relationship was headed for its end. The report added that Herman sought to better understand whether the current NDA is “valid or enforceable,” and cited two federal laws that allow for nullification of an NDA if sexual assault or harassment claims are raised. 7. Tiger Woods's ex-girlfriend is 8 years younger Tiger Wood’s ex-girlfriend Erica Herman, is 39 years old, which makes her 8 years younger than the golf legend. Over the course of their five-year relationship, Erica reportedly lived with Tiger Woods and his two children, Sam and Charlie. 8. She has attended golf tournaments with Tiger Woods Erica Herman has been spotted with Tiger Woods at a number of important occasions during his comeback. Woods’ ex-girlfriend was memorably with him when he earned his 15th Major title at the 2019 Masters. Erica also cheered on Tiger at the 2017 President’s Cup, as well as at the 2018 Ryder Cup. The couple have also been seen at other sporting events, and have been spotted at the U.S. Open cheering on tennis great Serena Williams. 9. She is a very private person Tiger Woods’ ex-girlfriend Erica Herman lives a very private life and keeps most of her business off social media. As of May 2023, she is not known to have any social media account. 10. Erica Herman's Net Worth? According to Sportskeeda, Tiger Woods’ ex-girlfriend Erica Herman has a net worth of $3 million. Her relationship with Tiger Woods’ also contributed to her net worth figures. 11. Erica Herman's height and weight? Erica Herman is approximately 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) tall. She weighs about 130 pounds (59 kg). Her measurements are 34-26-35 inches or 86-66-88 centimetres. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/other-sports/story/erica-herman-things-to-know-about-tiger-woodss-ex-girlfriend-2023051907581563644
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Vincent Okezie is among the seven Nigerian sports stars who hold Guinness World Records. Despite setting five Guinness World Records in football at the young age of 15, nobody recognized Vincent Okezie. At the age of 16, he is an apprentice mechanic due to the lack of support he received for his love of football. This feat made him one of the seven Nigerian sports stars who hold a Guinness World Record. Pulse Sports reported that seven Nigerian sports stars who hold Guinness World Records after Hilda Effiong Bassey, known as Hilda Baci, officially surpassed the current Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual after cooking for more than 87 hours, 45 minutes, a record set by India's Lata Tondon in 2019. Vincent Okezie holds five Guinness World Records In 2022, Okezie recorded five Guinness World Records, including the most consecutive backward handsprings with a football between the legs. He holds the most consecutive passes of a football between the head and soles while balancing on the back of a person. (129 Passes). He was also the most over-and-under passer of a football (soccer ball) with feet touching in one minute (team of two). He had the most transfers of football (soccer balls) spun on the finger in 30 seconds (team of two). Finally, he holds the most football (soccer) 'around the world' tricks with arms linked (team of two) by Victor Richard Kipo and Vincent Okezie). From holding Guinness World Records to mechanic apprentice Despite setting five Guinness World Records in football, Okezie is now a mechanic apprentice and is currently writing his West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exam. Okezie is aiming to study theater art at the university after his secondary school. The Abia State indigene is currently in Akwa Ibom State with his coach. Okezie's coach/manager, Chuwuebuka Ezugha, said in an exclusive with Pulse Sports that life hasn't been easy for him, but despite that, he doesn't stop learning. He said, "It was, though, because when we sought people's support in order to make it bigger, no one came to our aid. "There is no support from the state government. Life hasn't been easy for him as usual, but it doesn't stop him from going to school, training, and learning mechanics." Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/the-untold-story-of-the-nigerian-mechanic-apprentice-with-5-sports-guinness-world-records-2023051908135110612
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Henry, once again, talks about Lionel Messi and his relationship with the Paris Saint-Germain supporters. Lionel Messi was once again subjected to boos by Paris Saint-Germain supporters, and again, Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has come to his defence. The 35-year-old returned to action over the weekend in Paris Saint-Germain's home win over Ajaccio, and in moments, he was on the receiving end of jeers by the Parisian supporters. Henry, who was his teammate at Barcelona, had previously defended him, believing a player of such status should not be on the receiving end of such treatment. Following the game, he reprised the role, speaking for his fellow 2008/09 UCL winner. What Henry said about Messi The former Monaco manager had no issues with PSG's decision to suspend Messi, as he understood it had to be done; however, the 1998 World Cup winner believes the treatment he is subjected to by the fans of the club is due to the broken relationship between the Qatari owners and the supporters. Henry submits that the Argentine cannot be the problem of a football club, citing his track record as one who proffers solutions instead. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/he-is-not-psgs-problem-henry-defends-messi-2023051613253237852
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Premier League clubs are known for their abundant riches. Here are the 10 richest clubs in England in 2023. It is common knowledge that English football clubs are richer than their counterparts in other parts of the world mostly down to the visibility and the high market value of the Premier League. But even among the richest, there are levels to their affluence as some English clubs are more valuable than others which leads to the compilation of this updated list. Here are the top 10 richest clubs in England based on their valuation according to Transfermarkt. Top 10 richest clubs in England (2023) 10. Aston Villa (Valuation) - €437 million Aston Villa comes in at number 10 on the list of richest clubs in England with a €437 million valuation making them one of the richest clubs in the world. The club popularly referred to as ‘Villa’ is based in Aston, Birmingham and was founded in 1874. Their 42,657-capacity stadium, Villa Park has been their home since 1897 and cost £16,733 to build which is about £25 million in today’s currency adjusted for inflation. The club made €210.9m in revenue in 2022 according to the Deloitte Football Money League rankings which puts them in 21st place for 2023. The club is currently owned by NSWE group, an Egyptian company owned by the Egyptian billionaire Nassef Sawiris and American billionaire Wes Edens. The £33 million signing of Emiliano Buendia from Norwich in June 2021 is the most amount of money they have spent on one player. The club managed by Unai Emery currently sits seventh on the Premier League table and are in contention to finish in European places which means they could have a new record signing in the summer. 9. Leicester City (Valuation) - €443.1 million Leicester City are number nine on our richest clubs in England list with a valuation of €443.1 million. They were founded in 1884. The 2016 Premier League champions raked in €252.2 million in revenue last year, a slight decrease on the €255.5 million from the year before. The club is based in the East Midlands of England where they play their home games at the 32,262-capacity, King Power Stadium which cost £37 million to build and has been open since 2002. The Foxes are currently owned by King Power, a company founded by late Thai businessman, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha and now currently headed by his son Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha who functions as the club chairman as well since his father’s unfortunate passing in 2018. The record transfer fee paid by Leicester City for a player was £32 million rising to 40 million for midfielder Youri Tielemans from AS Monaco in 2019. However, they are more known for selling players which is how they generate a lot of their revenue from record sales of Harry Maguire to Manchester United for €87 million in 2019, Wesley Fofana to Chelsea for €80 million in 2022, Riyad Mahrez to Manchester City in 2018 for €67 million amongst others. The club is currently 19th on the log and are facing imminent relegation from the Premier League with just three games left to play. 8. West Ham United (Valuation) - €451.5 million Having been founded in 1895 as Thames Ironworks, it was in 1900 that the club officially became known as West Ham United. They are currently situated in Stratford, East London where they play their home games at the London Stadium. They are currently valued at €451.5 million by Transfermarkt making West Ham number eight on our list of the richest clubs in England. The Hammers raked in €301.2 million in 2022 according to Deloitte Football Money League making them one of the richest clubs in the world. Club chairman David Sullivan controls the majority stake of the club although Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky acquired 27% of the shares of the club in November 2021 making him a minority owner of West Ham. The London club are known to spend in the transfer window in recent years but the €50 million signing of French striker Sebastien Haller remains the most expensive purchase in the history of the club. West Ham have had a subpar Premier League season as they are currently 15th on the log but the Hammers are also on course to win their first-ever European title as they are currently in the UEFA Europa Conference League semi-finals. 7. Newcastle United (Valuation) - €494.3 million Newcastle United have recently become affluent thanks to the 2021 purchase for a reported £305 million by a consortium including Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, RB Sports & Media and PCP Capital Partners although the Saudi Arabians are undoubtedly the faces of the operation. The new ownership has seen their valuation move up to seventh on the list of richest clubs in England and one can only expect that to increase especially with how well they have been doing so far. The club is based in Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear and play their home games at the iconic St James’ Park Stadium which has a 52,305 capacity and was first opened in 1892. The Magpies made €212.3 million in revenue last year which was the 20th-highest of any team in the world and the 11th among English clubs. The £63 million spent to sign Swedish striker Alexander Isak from Real Sociedad last summer is Newcastle’s record-signing so far but that is likely to change soon as Eddie Howe’s team are on course to qualify for the Champions League for the first time since the 2002/03 season. 6. Tottenham Hotspurs (Valuation) - €680.3 million Tottenham comes in at number six on the list of richest clubs in England with a €680.3 million valuation on Transfermarkt. The club was founded in 1882 and has played its home matches in the 62,850-capacity Tottenham Hotspur Stadium since April 2019. The state-of-the-art stadium was built between 2016 and 2019 and cost £1 billion to complete, making it one of the best sports stadiums in the whole world. Spurs made a whopping €523 million in total revenue for 2022 and are valued highly due to their status as one of the traditional big six of English football. The club is owned by ENIC International Ltd, an investment company established by the British billionaire Joe Lewis who bought majority shares at the club in 2001. Lewis’ partner at ENIC, Daniel Levy has been the executive chairman of the club ever since and is the public face of the club’s ownership. Tottenham’s record-signing Tanguy Ndombele joined the club from Lyon in 2019 for £62 million but the midfielder has failed to hit the expected heights so far. 5. Manchester United (Valuation) - €795.7 million Manchester United are arguably the richest club in England and probably the world in general but their Transfermarkt valuation of €795.7 million only puts them at number five in the list of richest clubs in England. The Red Devils also earned €688.6 million in revenue last year, the third-highest among English clubs and fourth in the world. They are undoubtedly the most successful English club in history with a record 20 League titles (13 Premier League titles), 12 FA Cups, six League Cups, and a record 21 FA Community Shields. They have won the European Cup/UEFA Champions League three times, and the UEFA Europa League, the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup, the UEFA Super Cup, the Intercontinental Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup once each. United are based in Manchester and play their home games at the 74,310-capacity stadium, Old Trafford which they moved into in 1910. Manchester United are a public company and on the New York Stock Exchange which means they are technically owned by the public but they have two chairmen in Joel and Avram Glazer, the majority shareholders. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/revealed-top-10-richest-clubs-in-england-2023-2023051614583111917
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Obafemi Martins was instrumental in his debut season with Inter Milan and he almost secured their spot in the Champions League final when they played City rivals AC Milan in the semis 20 years ago. The Champions League semi final clash between Inter Milan and AC Milan goes down memory lane when both sides clashed in the same competition 20 years ago. Currently, Inter hold a two-goal advantage into the second leg but it was a different ball game during the 2002-03 season. 2003-02 UCL 1st leg semi final Milan derby Both sides played a goalless draw at the San Siro as Milan were marked to be the home-team which meant that they had to score in the second leg to have the away-goal advantage. Milan had a squad regarded as the best in Europe comprising Andriy Shevchenko, Gennaro Gattuso, Filippo Inzaghi, Clarence Seedorf, Alessandro Nesta and Paolo Maldini. The young Obafemi Martins in Inter’s squad On the other hand, Inter had a compact team with the likes of Fabio Cannavaro, Hernan Crespo, Alvaro Reccoba, Javier Zanetti and Marco Matterrrazzi. But Inter had a certain Obafemi Martins, a 17-year-old academy graduate who was gradually making waves both on the domestic scene and the intercontinental stage. The future Super Eagles striker netted his first Champions League goal against Bayer Leverkusen in the round of 16, and heading into the semi-final, Inter boss Hector Cupper was left with no choice but to take a big gamble. 2nd leg semi clash at the San Siro Shevchenko had given Milan the lead right on the stroke of half time giving them advantage according to the away-goal rule. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/how-ex-super-eagles-striker-martins-nearly-helped-inter-into-the-cl-final-in-milan-derby-20-years-ago-2023051609112289717
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The wife of the imprisoned Brazilian footballer has spoken out amid rumours of an affair with Moroccan World Cup star Achraf Hakimi. Joana Sanz remains in the spotlight since her husband’s arrest earlier this year. The estranged wife of Brazilian defender Dani Alves has endured a tough start to the year, having lost her mother and seen her partner arrested over allegations of sexual assault. Dani Alves is currently in temporary detention at Brians II prison after he was accused of rape by a 23-year-old lady. The former Pumas defender has seen his life take a dramatic turn for the worse and his marriage all but crash. The 40-year-old former Barcelona right-back continues to appeal for his release on bail while an investigation into the case continues. However, the prosecutors office remain opposed to his temporary release due to risk of flight as well as his economic muscle. Joana Sanz hits out at the media amid rumours of an affair with Achraf Hakimi Last week, multiple outlets reported that Joana Sanz, 29, was alleged to have met with PSG defender Achraf Hakimi in a nightclub in Spain. Hakimi who is currently charged with rape has also been in the headlines over his divorce from Hiba Abouk. But reports from Spain suggested that Dani Alves’ estranged wife who has since declared her intention to divorce the footballer, met with Hakimi, 24. Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/dani-alves-wife-joana-sanz-explodes-on-instagram-2023051608371267166
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Five Southampton players to keep an eye on in the summer transfer window now that they are relegated from the Premier League. Following a 2-0 home defeat to Fulham in the Premier League, Southampton have now officially been relegated to the English Championship. The Saints endured a horrible campaign and have now been put out of their misery with two games still to play this season, ending their 11-year stay as a Premier League club. Their relegation will expectedly trigger a fire sale when the summer transfer window opens in June and here are the most likely players to move on to new clubs in no particular order as they are too good to play in the second division. James Ward-Prowse English midfielder James Ward-Prowse is probably the most likely Southampton player to depart the club this summer and he has already been linked with multiple clubs. The 28-year-old has been primed for a bigger move for a while now and Southampton’s unfortunate relegation provides a springboard for the set-piece specialist. Ward-Prowse has scored 10 goals in 43 games for the Saints so far this season, making him their joint-top scorer while also contributing four assists. The England international has also scored 17 goals directly from free kicks in the Premier League so far, the second-highest tally in the competition behind only David Beckham with 18. It remains to be seen where Ward-Prowse will end up if he does leave St Mary’s this summer but clubs like Liverpool and Aston Villa have been mentioned so far. Romeo Lavia Relegation or not, Romeo Lavia’s days as a Saint were always numbered as the teenager had been in high demand since the January transfer window. Source: Pulse Sports https://read.pulsesports.ng/5-players-set-to-leave-Southampton
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The Birnin Kebbi State is one of two projects to be carried out by the world football governing body, in Nigeria. FIFA, through its FIFA Forward programme, has announced that the body in collaboration with the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) have built a 'state-of-the-art mini stadium' in Birnin Kebbi, the capital of Kebbi State, Nigeria. Kebbi State remains one of Nigeria's most remote parts, and FIFA through its FIFA Forward programme aims at giving kids a chance to play football and live out their dreams on a top-class stadium. Kebbi FA chairman calls Birnin Kebbi stadium 'a boost' The $1.189 million (N424 million) project, undertaken by the NFF and the FIFA Forward programme, is one of two projects to be carried out by the world football governing body, in Nigeria. Pulse Sports https://read.pulsesports.ng/FIFA-builds-N424-million-stadium-in-nigeria
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Ranked! Check out the Top 10 most beautiful wives of football stars in 2023. Football wives and girlfriends are part of the most interesting spectacles in the sport. Most of these women have risen to prominence supporting their husbands and famous football stars on and off the pitch. These stunning ladies, gorgeous, attractive, and impressive have gone ahead to marry some of the world’s most talented and popular football stars. In this article, Pulse Sports reviews the hottest wives of footballers in 2023. Below is a list of the Hottest Wives of football stars in 2023. Top 10 hottest wives of footballers in 2023 Source: Pulse Sports https://read.pulsesports.ng/Top-10-hottest-wives-of-footballers-in-2023
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Ronaldo has leapfrogged Messi to become the highest-paid athlete in the world in 2023, ahead of NBA icon LeBron James and a host of other big names. Cristiano Ronaldo has been named as the highest-paid athlete in Forbes' 2023 rich list. Ronaldo has now beaten his eternal rival Lionel Messi and NBA superstar LeBron James to the top spot following his mega-money move to Al-Nassr earlier in January this year. Ronaldo, 38, signed a staggering £175m-per-year deal in the Middle East and is now the highest-paid athlete in the world in 2023. The Portuguese superstar and five-time Ballon d’Or winner has scored 12 goals and provided two assists in 12 Saudi Pro League matches since his switch to Al-Nassr However, reports have also suggested that Ronaldo, now the world's highest-paid athlete, is ready to call time on his Middle East adventure, with his girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez believed to be 'desperate' for a return to Europe, according to El Nacional. Lionel Messi topped by Cristiano Ronaldo in highest-paid athletes in the world in 2023 Read more: https://read.pulsesports.ng/c-ronaldo-trumps-lionel-messi-in-list-of-top-10-highest-paid-athletes Source: Pulse Sports
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