₦airaland Forum

This list takes you through the most valuable footballers in the world based on transfer values at the moment according to the reliable CIES Football Observatory.

Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland has been named the most valuable footballer in the world at the moment.

Haaland was named by the reliable CIES Football Observatory in their latest feature

CIES Football Observatory released the list of the top 100 most valuable footballers earlier this week with the talented City forward at the top as monitored by Pulse Sports Nigeria.

Haaland leads the most valuable footballers list
According to the report by the CIES Football Observatory, the list of 100 most valuable footballers in the world complied most on estimated transfer values.

CIES used a statistical model that was exclusively developed by them, with Haaland and other players aged 24 and under dominating the list.

As per the report, the 22-year-old Norwegian forward finished top with an estimated value of €250 million.

This should not be a surprise considering the excellent season Haaland has had in his debut campaign for the English champions.

Haaland joined the Cityzens in a celebrated move from Borussia Dortmund last summer and has set the Premier League and Champions League on fire.

He has broken available scoring records in the famous Premier League after scoring 36 goals last season en route helping Pep Guardiola and City win the league title for the third time in a row.

Haaland also scored 12 goals in 10 matches to fire Man City closer to an unprecedented treble as they take on Inter Milan in the final of the Champions League this weekend.

Other most valuable footballers on the list
Haaland defeated Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior who is second and valued at €196.3 million, with Bukayo Saka, who has been enjoying his summer break in his ancestral home, coming third.

The Arsenal star is valued at €195.8 million while his international teammate and Real Madrid-bound Jude Bellingham is fourth on the list with a value of €190.2 million.

Another Real Madrid and Brazilian youngster, Rodrygo Goes, completes the top five (5) with a value of €184.5 million.

Meanwhile, Barcelona’s Pablo Gavi, who finished seventh on the list, is the youngest player in the top 10 most valuable footballers list at the age of 18.8 years old.

Top 10 most valuable footballers in the world: Full list
Erling Haaland, €245.1m
Vinicius Jr, €196.3m
Bukayo Saka, €195.8m
Jude Bellingham, €190.2m
Rodrygo Goes, €184.5m
Pedri Gonzalez, €178.0m
Pablo Gavi, €174.1m
Jamal Musiala, €170.2m
Phil Foden, €166.8m
Kylian Mbappe, €163.2m

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/top-10-most-valuable-footballers-in-the-world-2023060807114100549

We break down the financial benefits of Messi's move to Inter Miami in the MLS.

Lionel Messi has confirmed tonight that he will be joining MLS side Inter Miami, snubbing interest from Al-Hilal and Barcelona.

Although Barcelona had yet to table a formal offer, Messi stood to earn €500 million a season if he accepted the offer from Saudi Arabia.

The financial deal in wages for his chosen option, the MLS, is nowhere near the Al-Hilal offer, but it remains a lucrative deal.

We break down what Messi stands to earn from his move to North America.

Messi's Inter Miami wages
Comprehensive details on Messi's deal with the Herons Vice City are expected to surface in the coming days.

There are conflicting reports on the length of his deal, with some sources claiming he will sign a two-year deal, while others say four.

His exact wages are also unconfirmed, but according to The Sporting News, he is expected to earn less than his current wages at PSG given the MLS wage cap.

The current highest-paid player in the league is Switzerland and Chicago Fire's Xerdan Shaqiri, on a reported €7.6 million.

Although Messi will be expected to earn above that, the current highest-paid player in the league is some way away from his €35 million a year at PSG.

So what makes it lucrative?
When David Beckham made the move from Real Madrid to MLS (LA Galaxy) in 2007, the wage, although substantial, was not the cash cow.

He was offered the chance to buy an MLS club as part of an expansion at a cut price. Years later, he bought Inter Miami for $25 million. The club is reportedly worth $600 million today and is set to welcome possibly the greatest footballer of the millennium.

Although Messi will not be offered a similar deal, as MLS clubs now go for $500 million, he is still in line for a significant windfall.

According to the Athletic, the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner will be on a couple of profit-sharing deals.

The first is with Apple TV+, the official broadcaster of the MLS. According to the report, he will be given a portion of the revenue generated from new subscribers to the MLS Season Pass, the subscription method to watch the MLS on Apple TV.

He will have a similar deal with Adidas, who provide kits for all MLS teams. This will reportedly see him receive a share of the increase in profit that comes as a result of his arrival in the league.

Also, he will reportedly be given a chance to buy a stake in the club. All of this together makes up a huge MLS offer.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/explained-how-much-will-lionel-messi-earn-at-inter-miami-in-mls-2023060722045677753

Manchester United midfielder Casemiro is currently under fire after it was discovered that he allegedly cheated on his wife. There are several other players who have been caught in the same situation.

Cheating is a common phenomenon among couples dating each other and it is still a lingering problem till date, Soccer Souls.

Sports celebrities have also been involved in the scandal which either ruined their marriages or destroyed the homes that had been built for years.

The latest culprit is Manchester United midfielder Casemiro who allegedly cheated on his wife after a chat between himself and his cheating partner leaked.

Here are 7 other players who have cheated on their wives;

1. Gerard Pique
The Barcelona defender was married to pop singer Shakira until things went south when it was discovered that the Spaniard was cheating with a younger lady.

The singer and footballer have parted ways despite having two boys together and their divorce is currently being processed.

2. Wayne Rooney

The former England captain was exposed when he was allegedly caught cheating with a prostitute while his wife Coleen was pregnant with their second child.

Fortunately for the ex-Derby County boss, the act did not lead to divorce and the couples have gone on to have four sons together.

3. John Terry

The former Chelsea captain went too far after he cheated with Wayne Bridge’s girlfriend Vanessa Perroncel a French underwear model

The pair never shook hands again even when they met in a football game and Bridge retired from the England national team afterwards and the latter stripped of his captaincy for the Three Lions.

It is understood that Adrian Mutu and Eidur Gudjohnsen and one other Chelsea player were also alleged to have slept with Perroncel but she denied the claims, Daily Mail.

4. Thierry Henry

Arsenal’s all time top goalscorer was made to pay £8million as divorce settlement to his wife Claire Merry after he was allegedly caught cheating.

The Frenchman had an illicit affair with a make-up artist and it was blown wide open to the media by his wife.

5. Ryan Giggs
Things got complicated in the case of the Manchester United legend as he committed adultery with his brother’s wife Natasha Giggs for eight years, Bleacher Reports.

His brother Rhodri got to know about the affair after splitting with his wife as Ryan had a lot explaining to do to his wife Stacey.

6. Michael Ballack

The former German captain was once an unfaithful husband after his international teammate Christian Lell accused him of getting his girlfriend, Daniella Aumann pregnant, Bleacher Reports.

It is understood that Lell and his partner Daniella had lived with the Chelsea legend in Lambe and things have never been the same again.

7. Peter Crouch

Just like every other playing leaving home for holidays, Peter Crouch cheated on his wife when he made a trip to Madrid.

The former England striker allegedly paid a prostitute for sex in a cab and hotel before she made the news public to the press, Mirror.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/casemiro-and-7-other-footballers-who-were-allegedly-caught-cheating-on-their-wives-2023060613135705287

The Lionel Messi situation has taken a new turn with a recent report suggesting the Argentine superstar has turned down a move to Saudi Arabia.

Lionel Messi's future has been the subject of debate for weeks and months and it looks like a decision is close to being made.

Messi to choose between MLS and Barcelona

According to The Athletic, MLS and Inter Miami are working on a mega deal to land the superstar forward in what would surely be the biggest deal for Major League Soccer.

The report states that MLS executives were told by Messi's entourage that the attacker's decision is down to Inter Miami or Barcelona and that joining a club from Saudi Arabia is “not under consideration.”

There have been reports of Messi's imminent decision from Europe, South America, and Asia, but momentum seems to be shifting towards Inter Miami.

Barcelona remain firmly in the race


Barcelona will continue to push but time is running out for the Blaugrana with some reports indicating the club may not have the finances to pull off the deal, in any case.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/messi-finally-makes-decision-on-euro1billion-saudi-offer-with-time-running-out-for-barcelona-2023060707213642617

The Molade Okoya Thomas Indoor Sports Hall of the Teslim Balogun Stadium will host the WTT Contender, which is slated for June 12–18.

The National Table Tennis Coach, Nosiru Bello, has revealed that Nigerian players are ready to make history at the World Table Tennis (WTT) Contender in Lagos.

Pulse Sports reported that the Molade Okoya Thomas Indoor Sports Hall of the Teslim Balogun Stadium will host the WTT Contender, which is slated for June 12–18.

No fewer than 50 male and female players are training in Lagos ahead of the championship.

WTT Lagos contenders will have players from about 15 countries, and it is expected to allow players to garner ranking points in their quest to pick tickets to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in France.

Players from top table tennis-playing nations like China, Chinese Taipei, Germany, India, and a host of others are expected in Lagos for the epic event.

Bello confidence of a successful outing
Bello told NAN that the tournament would also feature some of the top players in the world.

He added that preparations are in top gear as the Nigerian players are upbeat and in high spirits for the event.

“Some of them have heard of our players but have not met or played with them; this is an opportunity for us to show them what we have got.

“This is an opportunity for our players to give their contenders a tough time and for them to also witness Nigeria’s Ping-Pong game.

“The players are rigorously preparing for the World Table Tennis tournament. Both male and female athletes are fully prepared for the championship.

“I can tell you that we can confidently meet up to the standard of other players coming from different countries.

“The new ones are also prepared to give the world-class players a tough time and also showcase their talents. It is then that we will know where to start again. For them, this is like an examination because there is no way you will be teaching students all around the year and won’t set an examination for them,” he added.

Pulse Sports reported that Africa's table tennis star, Quadri Aruna, has revealed that he will not be participating at the WTT Contender in Lagos.

The African giant revealed that he will not be participating at the WTT in Lagos due to club engagements.

The Nigerian joined Russian club, Fakel-Gazprom Orenburg from the Bundesliga in January to improve his game as well as expose him to world-class training with the Moscow-based team.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/table-tennis/story/nigerians-set-to-make-history-as-world-table-tennis-contender-in-lagos-2023060705122819678

Anthony Joshua says 'I'll still f**k your girl' in response to talks about fighting Dillian Whyte

British boxer of Nigerian descent, Anthony Joshua, has gone on a crazy rant on social media.

Joshua's outburst follows Eddie Hearn's admission that negotiations for a fight with Dillian Whyte on August 12 are already in progress.

In response to the promoter's assertion, Johusa used his Instagram story to dispute his knowledge of the bout negotiations.

Anthony Joshua gives X-rated rant on Instagram
Joshua went on an expletive-filled rant, drawing his motivation from the lyrics of the popular UK rapper Stormzy.

On the stories of his official Instagram account, he wrote, "I don't know about any talks to fight Dillian Whyte.

"Everyday. AJ this, AJ that, AJ's hairline going way back but I'll still f*** your girl go retweet that."

A follow-up post came soon after, with Joshua posting a picture of Stormzy on his story alongside the caption: "AJ's this, AJ's that.

"AJ says: 'F*** off."

Some fans now believe that Joshua has returned to his previous attitude.

Some believe that he might have suffered brain damage from fighting Ukrainian professional boxer Oleksandr Usyk

Another theory is that his posts, which are inspired by Stormzy, indicate that a battle with Whyte is set.

Stormzy performed during AJ's ring walk in 2015 after he defeated Whyte by seventh-round TKO to win the British and Commonwealth heavyweight belts.

Joshua has been mentioned in relation to a fight against Deontay Wilder as well as a rematch with Dillian Whyte.

A confrontation with the Bronze Bomber is what AJ allegedly turned down a bout with Tyson Fury for, according to promoter Frank Warren.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/boxing/story/ill-still-fk-your-girl-anthony-joshua-goes-crazy-in-new-instagram-post-2023060307534936583

Blessing Oborodudu won 13 African titles and clinching the Olympic Silver medal.

Blessing Oborodudu, a great wrestler from Nigeria and an African champion, has been selected as the Wrestler of the Month by World Wrestling.


Oborodudu has been a huge surprise on the mat, setting a record by winning a record 13 African championships and the Olympic Silver medal.

She was included in the list on Friday along with American Amit ELOR, who defeated her opponents 36-0 her route to her maiden senior Pan-Am triumph.

In Tunisia, Oborududu secured GOLD in the women's wrestling 68kg division, winning a historic 13th African title.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/other-sports/story/world-wrestling-named-nigerias-blessing-oborodudu-as-wrestler-of-the-month-2023060306103124960

Chelsea's Kai Havertz is reportedly of interest to Real Madrid who are in the market for a striker.

Real Madrid reportedly have a genuine interest in landing Chelsea's Havertz as they continue their search for a central presence in their attack.

The 23-year-old Germany international joined Chelsea in the summer of 2020, and although he has enjoyed a continued stay in the first team, he has struggled to justify his €80 million transfer fee.

This has not deterred the Los Blancos, and they are said to be keen on a move for the attacker.

Havertz to Real Madrid
According to transfer journalist, the record Champions League winners like the profile of Kai Havertz, and are prepared to make a move for him.

The Madrid boss, Carlo Ancelotti, is said to be a big fan and has named him as an option for the striker's position.

The UCL holders are famously in the market for a striker, a need that has intensified in recent days with the rumours of a possible Benzema exit.

However, despite the French star dispelling the rumours, the club are said to still want a striker as they lack a proper replacement for the Ballon doer winner.

Havertz has emerged as a top option, and according to the report, Chelsea are open to a sale but will only sell for a significant amount.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/real-madrid-register-interest-in-chelseas-kai-havertz-2023060217262713650

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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