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Chelsea's Mauricio Pochettino has backed himself as the best manager in the world

New Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino once claimed to be the best manager in the world while at Tottenham, but at Chelsea, with more expectations, he will have to prove it.

Pochettino ready to take on Chelsea challenge
Chelsea announced he arrival of Pochettino on a two-year deal as a permanent replacement for Graham Potter, who was asked to leave earlier in the season and was temporarily replaced by Blues legend Frank Lampard.

Pochettino clearly has his work cut out for him following Chelsea’s abysmal 2022/23 campaign, but given his confidence, Chelsea fans have nothing to fear.

Pochettino claims he is the best in the world
While answering questions on a TV program organised by SkySports while he was still Tottenham boss, Pochettino was faced with a popular search term for his name on Google, asking if he was the best coach in the world, and the Argentine cheekily answered, "No doubt, of course. Yes of course.”

He will have to prove his mettle when he takes the reins at Chelsea, in the midst of the club’s dysfunction and one of the most competitive iterations of the Premier League.

He has proven that he can handle himself in England after leading Tottenham to an unprecedented Champions League final in 2019, as well as second and third-place finishes in the league.

He will need to do even better with Chelsea, as the demands at the two clubs are staggeringly different.


Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/no-doubt-new-chelsea-boss-pochettino-backs-himself-as-the-best-manager-in-the-world-2023052918093077966

Nigerians voted for Tinubu to succeed Muhammadu Buhari on Saturday, February 25.

Nigerians have charged Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reform the sports sector.

Tinubu was elected as the President of Nigeria during the February 25 Presidential election and he will be inagurated on May 29 as the President of Nigeria.

Tinubu vows to return school sports and grassroots sports
Pulse Sports reported that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu vowed to return to school sports and grassroots sports in his campaign manifesto.

The manifesto unveiled further that they will create an enabling environment for sports to thrive as a business.

The Manifesto read, “Provide the opportunities for youths to realize, harness, and develop their full potentials and to facilitate the emergence of a new generation of citizens committed to the sustenance of good governance and service to the people and the country.

“We will unleash the potential and talent of our youth in different sports through a dynamic training and funding approach that will upgrade the standard of our sports development. The return of school sports and grassroots sports will be made the cornerstone of our sports development policy.

“Towards achieving a coordinated sports development program, we will create an enabling environment for sports to thrive as a business. The New National Sports Industry Policy, (NISP) will be fully implemented. Incentives will be provided to attract private-sector investments and participation in sports infrastructural development.

“Sports development in all its facets will be made a priority item under a Tinubu government with an increase in funding. A Sports Code of Governance will also be developed to ensure compliance with set goals and objectives. Modern sporting infrastructure will be developed in each of the six geopolitical zones of the country to elevate our sporting standards.”

“Establish world-class sports academies and training institutes and ensure that Nigeria occupies a place of pride in global sports and athletics. Schools and communities will also be mandated to create playgrounds/sports centers with needed equipment to develop skills.”

Nigerians Charge Tinubu to reform Nigerian Sports
A sports Analyst, Biodun Alabi advised Tinubu to bring national Sports vision and set up a team to implement it.

He added that he should give the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) a financial lifeline.

He said, "I expect him to bring out the national sports vision designed by former minister, Sunday Dare, raise a team to study it, adjust it(if there's the need) and set machinery in motion to begin its implementation.

"At the core of this, is the imperativeness of scrapping the federal sports ministry and make it transform to National Sports Commission, appoint a competent Head for it, energise it and make it auto-running. The job of this agency should be clearly spelt - development ( infrastructure, personnel, organisation of all nuances of sports.

"Without doubt, Nigeria's biggest sport is football, like almost everywhere in the world. I expect him to give the NFF a big financial lifeline, ( in form of investment) for recapitalisation. Just as it was done in the banking sector!.

"This recapitalization will enable the NFF to properly develop and organize the game, essentially the local league, development of an identifiable football curriculum, the development and education of the coaches, playing infrastructure (especially the pitches), and a lucrative reward system for the players, officials and the clubs."

Adding to the heat, Zainab Yetunde Adam said, "I want him to do everything possible to make Nigerians play at almost all international competitions, they should be trained by experts. Youth should be more engaged in sports and avoid favoritism"

On his part, Salako Nurudeen echoed that, "He should charge the next Minister of Youth and Sports to reform the NFF body, because that committee has been principally responsible for the failure of Nigeria Football in the country and globally.

"He must also make the local sports attractive to Nigerians to watch at the stadium and investors to put their money into developing our sports. Legacy policies in sports should be priorities in his administration; paying the athletes appropriately, providing quality training facilities to enhance their potential to compete with the rest of the work. Lastly, to fight corruption in sports."


Source: Pulse Sports

pulsesports.ng/other-sports/story/nigerians-charge-tinubu-to-reform-nigerian-sports-2023052822525749778

Ahmed Musa shows off car, gives Nigerians advice ahead of new president's inauguration.

Super Eagles of Nigeria captain has given a piece of advice to Nigerians ahead of Democracy Day.

The Sivasspor of Turkey forward took to his official social media platforms to share a message ahead of the change of government.

Musa and all Nigerians await as accountant and politician Chief Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to be sworn in as the 16th President of Nigeria on May 29.

Tinubu, a former Lagos State governor, is the president-elect and Musa had kind words for Nigerians ahead of the big day.

Along with a photo in his car was a message that said, "Trust in the timing of your life. Everything will happen when it's meant to, as long as you keep working and wanting. ❤️👏"

Musa rewards staff
The message from Musa comes after a massive gesture to his employees as a leader.

In order to ensure that they never had to worry about renting again, Musa gave each of his four most devoted employees a house.

By providing apartments for some of his employees, Musa elevated his charitable deeds.

Even though he appreciates working closely with the four employees, the 30-year-old subsequently said that it would be much simpler if he allowed them to have their own residences.

Having been with him for a while, he said it was time to show appreciation for the loyal, committed staff members.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/super-eagles-captain-ahmed-musa-gives-nigerians-advice-ahead-of-tinubus-inauguration-2023052814145590307

Kelechi Iheanacho grabbed an assist on the final day of the season, by it was not enough to stop Leicester City from being relegated from the Premier League

Nigerian duo of Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho have suffered the ignominy of being relegated from the Premier League to the EFL Championship with Leicester City despite a win over West Ham in the last league game of the season.

While Ndidi was missing from the game against West Ham through injury, Iheanacho started and played 77 minutes, providing an assist for Harvey Barnes’ opening goal in the eventual 2-1 win.

His assist and the eventual win for Leicester on the final day were not enough to rescue their season however, as Everton’s 1-0 win over Bournemouth ensured that they finished above Leicester in the final non-relegation place in the league.

How it happened
Leicester took the lead after a tense half-hour as Harvey Barnes finished brilliantly from Iheanacho’s pass.

Going into the halftime break, Leicester were safe as Everton were still level against Bournemouth, but all that changed after the break despite the Foxes going 2-0 up.

Defender Wout Faes turned in Youri Tielemans’ freekick but his goal came five minutes after Abdoulaye Doucoure had given Everton the lead over Bournemouth and was unable to change Leicester’s outcome for the season.

Pablo Fornals scored a late consolation goal for West Ham as Leicester hung on to the three points that were ultimately too little too late to save them from the drop.


Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/ndidi-and-iheanacho-relegated-with-leicester-despite-final-day-win-over-west-ham-2023052817391202844

Serie A games continue as we prepare for the last game of the season. We have made available some enticing odds for the Serie A match between Juventus and AC Milan.

Milan are in fourth position on the league table with a lot of question marks on their performance this season. They are currently fighting to qualify for next season’s Champions League. They have had a poor run of form with just three wins in their last ten games.

Juventus have struggled in their last ten games with a poor run. They have won only three of their last ten games in all competitions. They currently sit in seventh position in the league table after 10 points was deducted from their point leading to them losing out of the Champions League qualification.

*The odds were correct as at the time of posting

Rafael Leao +1 assist
Rafael Leao has been one of the top attackers for Milan this season. He has been their key player in attack this season. Leao has also created the highest number of assists for Milan this season creating eight assists in the league. We have tipped him to create an assist in this encounter for Milan.

Dušan Vlahović to score
This season, Duan Vlahovic has 14 goals for Juventus across all competitions. He has been one of their team's most crucial players. His play has been excellent even when his team is not performing well. We have picked him to score in this game against Milan.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/juventus-vs-ac-milan-juventus-to-qualify-for-europa-league-and-milan-to-drop-out-of-ucl-spot-2023052808494537114

PSG's title celebrations have been dampened by the potential departure of Lionel Messi
Paris Saint-Germain forward Lionel Messi is reportedly set to leave the club despite helping them clinch the Ligue 1 title.

Messi helps PSG to consecutive titles

Messi scored PSG’s only goal in the 1-1 draw against Strasbourg on Saturday to ensure Les Parisiens were crowned champions of Ligue 1 for the 11th time in their history, and the second time in a row since he signed for the club.

His 16th goal of the season also saw him reach 32 goal contributions in Ligue 1 this season and become the top scorer in the history of the top five European leagues.

Despite the undeniable success with PSG, the Argentine forward is still set to leave the club when his current deal ends in June, and will not be extending his deal beyond the 2023 summer transfer window.

Messi headed for PSG exit
Messi joined PSG in 2021 on a free transfer from Barcelona and has helped the club to successive league titles, scoring 32 goals and assisting 35 more in 75 games in all competitions, but has still been labelled an outcast by Les Parisiens’ fans.

The team’s failures in Europe and the Coupe de France have been laid squarely on Messi’s shoulders, with the player often getting booed this season during home fixtures.

The breakdown in Messi’s relationship with the fans has led to the Argentine seeking an exit from the club, and he is almost certain to depart France in the summer.

A return to Barcelona is the most likely option for Messi, although the financial implications of a deal to take Messi back to the Spotify Camp Nou might be too great for the Blaugrana to bear.

This could lead the 35-year-old forward to accept a lucrative deal to play in Saudi Arabia, reportedly with Al-Hilal.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/messi-set-to-leave-psg-despite-ligue-1-title-2023052806002451870

Bundesliga champions fire club CEO and sporting director immediately after league triumph

Bayern Munich have reportedly fired CEO Oliver Kahn immediately after beating Borussia Dortmund to the Bundesliga Liga title in dramatic fashion.

The retired goalkeeper only recently assumed the position last year, and after a tumultuous campaign at the helm, he is said to have been let go.

Sporting director Hassan Salihamidzic has also been reportedly relieved of his duties.

Oliver Kahn out

According to multiple reports, the Bavarians have replaced club legend Oliver Kahn as the Chief executive officer, installing Jan-Christian Dreesen in his stead.

The sacking comes after a Bundesliga triumph, but despite the eventual success, the German champions have had a disappointing season.

They were close to missing out on the title for the first time in 10 seasons, as Dortmund went into the final game of the season with one hand on the title.

However, BVB's failure to beat Mainz handed Thomas Tuchel's side the trophy but this was not enough to save Kahn's job.

According to multiple reports, the Bavarians have replaced club legend Oliver Kahn as the Chief executive officer, installing Jan-Christian Dreesen in his stead.

The sacking comes after a Bundesliga triumph, but despite the eventual success, the German champions have had a disappointing season.

They were close to missing out on the title for the first time in 10 seasons, as Dortmund went into the final game of the season with one hand on the title.

However, BVB's failure to beat Mainz handed Thomas Tuchel's side the trophy but this was not enough to save Kahn's job.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/bayern-boss-fired-immediately-after-bundesliga-win-2023052717001228786

Tyson Fury wants Anthony Joshua to cancel his fight against Deontay Wilder and take on him.

In a move that would significantly scuttle Saudi Arabia's heavyweight intentions, Tyson Fury claimed to have handed British professional boxer of Nigerian descent Anthony Joshua a contract for a bout in September.

The statement from one British heavyweight to another following their broken negotiations last year will give boxing fans a bitter feeling of deja vu.

The current WBC Champion, Fury, has been searching for a challenger recently, and despite discussions of a spectacular fight in Australia, he has changed his mind about "AJ."

On social media, he informed his followers that a contract had been sent.

Fury on contract to Joshua
"A few days ago i sent a draft contract to @anthonyjoshua for a fight in September @wembleystadium.

"Its a fight that everyone wants to see, including myself. Come of AJ lets give the world 🌎 what they want to see.

"This time, im not gonna make a million vids & keep putting pressure on. the ball is now on your side.. 👍😘 @frank_warren_official @eddiehearn @btsportboxing @daznboxing @toprank @espn @skysports."

Although the assurance of no deadlines or endless call out videos is appreciated, it does not change the reality that both men must consider a suggested mega-money proposal from the Middle East.

Recently, the topic of conversation in the heavyweight division has been the staging of both Joshua vs. Deontay Wilder and an undisputed fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk.

Those preparations would be at least one man short if the two Brits engaged in a pre-match fight at home.

In a move that would significantly scuttle Saudi Arabia's heavyweight intentions, Tyson Fury claimed to have handed British professional boxer of Nigerian descent Anthony Joshua a contract for a bout in September.

The statement from one British heavyweight to another following their broken negotiations last year will give boxing fans a bitter feeling of deja vu.

The current WBC Champion, Fury, has been searching for a challenger recently, and despite discussions of a spectacular fight in Australia, he has changed his mind about "AJ."

On social media, he informed his followers that a contract had been sent.

Fury on contract with Joshua
"A few days ago i sent a draft contract to @anthonyjoshua for a fight in September @wembleystadium.

"Its a fight that everyone wants to see, including myself. Come of AJ lets give the world 🌎 what they want to see.

"This time, im not gonna make a million vids & keep putting pressure on. the ball is now on your side.. 👍😘 @frank_warren_official @eddiehearn @btsportboxing @daznboxing @toprank @espn @skysports."

Although the assurance of no deadlines or endless call out videos is appreciated, it does not change the reality that both men must consider a suggested mega-money proposal from the Middle East.

Recently, the topic of conversation in the heavyweight division has been the staging of both Joshua vs. Deontay Wilder and an undisputed fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk.

Those preparations would be at least one man short if the two Brits engaged in a pre-match fight at home.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/boxing/story/tyson-fury-sends-contract-to-anthony-joshua-for-mega-fight-2023052700445225249

Read to find out when and where the Flying Eagles will take on the Brazil at the FIFA U-20 World Cup.

In their last group stage match at the FIFA U-20 World Cup, Nigeria's U-20 national football team, known as the Flying Eagles, will take on opponents from Brazil.

The Brazilians defeated the Dominican Republic 6-0 only last Wednesday.

The South Americans scored six goals in their comprehensive thrashing.

Meanwhile, Nigeria defeated Italy 2-0 and the second half saw the scoring of both goals.

Flying Eagles vs Brazil
The two teams will now meet for the seventh time, as Brazil won four of the games, while the other two ended in ties.

Brazil prevailed 4-2 in their most recent encounter in the 2015 World Cup, topping their group.

Nigeria has advanced from the group stage in 10 of their past 12 appearances in the U-20 World Cup, scoring at least twice in each of their last four games.

Brazil's bid for a sixth U-20 world championship started with a frustrating loss to Italy before they rebounded with an easy victory against the Dominican Republic.

Flying Eagles preview
In contrast, Nigeria's initial victory over the Dominican Republic was deceptive until they made a statement against Italy.

Now in the lead in the group, Ladan Bosso's men need just one more point to secure first place.

Brazil is going to strive for the most points possible to ensure a top-two finish, and their favorable goal differential also offers them an advantage to progress to the knockout stages.

Time and where to watch Flying Eagles vs Brazil
The Flying Eagles take on Brazil at the Estadio Único Diego Armando Maradona, La Plata.

The game will be available on DSTV and kickoff is 7 p.m. Nigerian time.

Source: Pulse Sports
https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/time-and-where-to-watch-nigerias-flying-eagles-face-brazil-2023052618035610346

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Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo could be in line for a shock return to European football according to the latest reports coming out of Germany.

Cristiano Ronaldo left Manchester United to join Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr at the end of 2022 but the forward has already been linked with a move away from the club.

Ronaldo to Bayern Munich?
German Businessman Markus Schon is reportedly plotting an audacious plan to bring Ronaldo to Bayern Munich at the end of the season.

Despite settling in nicely and scoring 13 goals for Al-Nassr, reports of a return to one of Europe’s top 5 leagues have followed the 38-year-old around.

Ronaldo was linked with Bayern before he joined Al-Nassr, but the club's CEO Oliver Kahn ruled out the move.

Now, though, a fresh opportunity has been presented to the Bundesliga giants.

“It would be conceivable that we could undertake to pay a transfer fee or loan fee in excess of a basic amount to be defined if our company is clearly seen as 'facilitating' the difference,” Schon wrote, per Abendzeitung (via Football Transfers ).

“In the event of a permanent commitment, we would expect a share in the proceeds from the jersey in order to limit our financial risk.”

More on the situation
According to Mirror Football, the businessman emailed Kahn directly with his proposal. Any deal would, however, require Ronaldo to accept a significantly lower salary.

The forward's deal in Saudi Arabia is worth a reported £173m a year, making the Portuguese the highest-paid player in world football. His deal with the club runs until 2025.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/cristiano-ronaldo-offered-sensational-return-to-europe-just-months-after-joining-al-nassr-2023052305403217080

Shonaike overcame significant hurdles to accomplish everything she has. The Nigerian has won 25 national championships, 11 medals in the African Games, and three titles at the continental level.

Seven-time Olympian, Olufunke Oshonaike has revealed that she can't stop playing table tennis and that she loves the ping pong games.

Pulse Sports reported that Oshonaike was knocked out of the ITTF World Table Tennis Championships Finals in Durban in the first round.

The first woman to play table tennis in seven Olympic Games, Oshonaike suffered an early setback in Durban as she was knocked out by Charlotte Lutz from the US.

Charlotte Lutz knocked out Oshonaike in the first round, 4-0 (11-9, 11-9, 11-9, 11-9).

I cant stop playing Table Tennis - Oshonaike
Former African champions revealed that she can't stop playing table tennis and that she can't bow to people calling her to quit.

She added that she is still fit to play but wants young African players to step up.

She said, "My first love is table tennis. I know Funke is 49, but we have a 58-year-old woman from Luxembourg, and I kept looking at her the way she is playing, and every time people asked me,

"Funke, when are you going to stop playing? But if I look at her, I will be like, Why will I stop playing because of people?

"I am still playing very well, but sometimes inside will tell me that I am tired, but I love table tennis. I am going to leave it for African players so that the younger ones can come up."

Oshonaike overcame significant hurdles to accomplish everything she has. The Nigerian has won 25 national championships, 11 medals in the African Games, and three titles at the continental level.

Over more than three decades, the Lagos paddler has been at the top of her game. The table tennis legend has played in seven Olympics, making her the only woman to do so in Africa and as a table tennis player.

She joined fellow Nigerian Segun Toriola, Jean-Michael Saive of Belgium, Zoran Primorac of Croatia, and Jörgen Persson of Sweden as the only table tennis players to have ever participated in seven Games.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/table-tennis/story/i-love-table-tennis-i-cant-stop-playing-seven-time-olympian-olufunke-oshonaike-2023052221160824323

Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho speaks out on the timing of the FIFC's decision to deduct 10 points from Juventus.

AS Roma boss Jose Mourinho has criticised the FIGC (Italian football federation) for their timing in the decision to dock Juventus 10 points.

The FIGC appeal court announced this evening a 10-point deduction for the Old Lady for their capital gains scandal. The timing, however, is to the annoyance of Gillarossi's manager, Mourinho.

What Mourinho said on Juventus point deduction
The Roma manager was talking today after his team's draw against Salernitana. The timing of his post-match press conference came after Juve's ruling, and he had strong opinions on it.

Jose believes the judgment comes too late in the season, with only two games left in the season. The former Chelsea boss thought an earlier decision—Juventus dropping out of the top four—would have impacted his squad planning in recent weeks.

The Roma boss rested players in their matches against Monza and Bologna, and he believes he would have made different choices had a Champions League been more probable.

Source: Pulse Sports
https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/mourinho-slams-serie-a-for-juventus-10-point-deduction-2023052222371095837

Dillian Whyte says Nigerian boys Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder are past their best.

British professional boxer of Nigerian descent Anthony Joshua and American knockout artist Deontay Wilder are poised to resolve their dispute in the ring after years of verbal sparring,

For boxing fans who might have once experienced the battle for all four major belts, it has been a long time coming.

Both men's world titles have subsequently been relinquished since it never materialized.

The international heavyweight match is scheduled for this December, but the suspense continues thanks to Saudi Arabia's enormous financial support

Dillian Whyte on Anthony Joshua vs Deontay Wilder
Dillian Whyte is one man who pays attention to that choice, especially on Joshua's part.

Whyte has been rumored to face 'AJ' again this August but has become impatient with the lack of progress on that plan.

He said in a statement to the Sun that his domestic competitor was reluctant to take a chance on the Wilder match.

Whyte said, “Joshua’s team are doing interviews saying he beats me in four rounds.

"But he can’t decide if I’m his dream opponent or his worst nightmare.

"I want the fight. I know that DAZN want the fight, too, because it would be an absolutely huge event.

"The only problem we all have is Joshua. He has confidence issues and is afraid to take the fight.

"He doesn’t want to risk his retirement payday in Saudi Arabia against Wilder — who is also past his sell-by date.”

'AJ' should make a comeback to the ring in August, according to Eddie Hearn, who often works with Whyte and promotes Joshua.

Whyte won't be waiting around for very long to get an offer since he will soon establish a deadline and because his possible opponent isn't as popular as he previously was.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/boxing/story/anthony-joshua-and-deontay-wilder-are-past-their-best-dillian-whyte-2023052211514307175

Bello Mohammed is a former Flying Eagles player during the 1999 era but he was spotted in Abuja working as a security guard.

Not all dreams come true for players seeking to make a career out of playing football and a perfect example is the case of former Nigerian U-20 international Bello Mohammed.

The ex-Nigerian international who according to reports is now a security guard in Abuja once played for the top sides in the country including El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri, Yobe Dessert Stars, and Zamfara United.

Bello Mohamed’s story in brief
Nicknamed ‘Bello Sudan’, Mohammed shared the dressing with the likes of Dele Ayenugba, late Justice Christopher, Austin Ejide among other during the 1999-2000 set of the Flying Eagles.

His colleagues earned hard currencies while playing for top clubs in Europe and the Super Eagles before calling it quits.

However, it is unfortunate that Mohammed did not realize his childhood ambition of becoming a football superstar like his colleagues who made it through to the senior national team.

It is understood that Mohammed who once wore the green and white colours of Nigeria is now a watchman at a facility in Abuja, the country’s capital.

In other news former Super Eagles defender Celestine Babayaro has stated that Taiwo Awoniyi is more of the legendary Rasheedi Yekini than Victor Osimhen.

The ex- Chelsea and Anderletch defender claimed that in terms of technical abilities who would pick the Nottingham Forest striker as the new Yekini.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/pathetic-story-of-former-flying-eagles-star-who-became-a-security-guard-after-failed-career-2023052214323274368

24 hours after he believed the Gunners could still win the title, Arsenal's Mikel Arteta has finally given up hope of winning the Premier League this season after his side lose again.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has taken responsibility for his side’s collapse in the Premier League title race.

Arteta said this after watching his Gunners fall to another defeat in the league on Saturday evening at Nottingham.

The Gunners lost for the second game in a row following a narrow 1-0 defeat to the relegation-threatened Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.

Arteta takes blame for Arsenal's collapse
Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi scored the decisive goal, his fifth goal in three matches to end the title race as Manchester City were crowned champions without kicking a ball.

Arsenal were favourites to lift their first Premier League title since 2004 after topping the table for 248 days.

However, picking just nine points from a possible 24 in their last eight matches saw the Gunners hand initiative to defending champions City, who have now secured their third title in a row.

Following the latest defeat to Awoniyi-inspired Forest, the Spaniard has taken responsibility for what he has described as a sad day for the Gunners.

“First of all, congratulations to Manchester City for winning the championship,” Arteta told the Premier League.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/arsenal-manager-arteta-laments-after-title-collapse-2023052022040892199

20-year-old Nigerian striker Gift Orban wants a dream move to the Premier League but does not want anything to do with Arsenal.
Nigerian striker Gift Orban has ruled out any possible move to Premier League side Arsenal in the future following a sensational interview.

Orban revealed this after he admitted that a move to the Premier League is his ultimate dream.

The 20-year-old has been at the centre of intense transfer speculation following an excellent season at Belgian club Gent.

Orban rules out Arsenal move
The talented forward has been on fire since he swapped Norway for Belgium in the winter transfer window back in January 2023.

He has scored 19 goals in 19 appearances, including three hat-tricks for Gent since he joined in January.

This has alerted some of Europe’s biggest clubs who have queued up for the Nigerian star ahead of a possible transfer this season.

With some of these clubs in England, Orban has now reacted to some of the speculations.

According to him, a move to the Premier League is one dream he has but has no interest in signing for Arsenal as he wants to win titles.

"The Premier League is my ultimate dream,” Orban said per transfer guru Fabrizio Romano on his Twitter account.

“Man United, Liverpool or Man City. I don’t really like Arsenal that much – it’s like they don’t want to win titles,” he added.

“I want to go somewhere where they win titles”

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/gift-orban-gives-reasons-man-utd-ahead-of-arsenal-2023052013590044031

The Nigeria Taekwondo Federation President Cup will be held from June 19–21, 2023, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.

The President of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation, Abdullahi Saidu-Baba, has guaranteed a bright future for the sport in the nation, as the current board is working hard to elevate the sport to the highest level under his leadership.

The Nigeria Taekwondo Federation President Cup will be held from June 19–21, 2023, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.

Abdullahi noted in a conversation with Journalists during the International Kuikiwon Seminar and Dan Testing at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja that the events will allow the Federation to get ready for important international tournaments.

The President remarked that the future of Nigerian Taekwondo is bright as he expressed his joy at the quantity and caliber of athletes who attended the seminar and testing.

He said, “Taekwondo has two forms of the sport, Kyrougi, which is fighting, and Poomsae, which is forms and patterns, and they are all scoring events, and there are world championship medal events in both events, which makes it very important for us as a federation to train our athletes so that as they compete in Kyrougi, we should be able to do the same in Poomsae, so for us, we are ensuring that the basics of the sport are addressed.

“Let me tell you that the good thing about this training is that our athletes are now understanding that it’s not normal to claim that you’re a coach, but that they need to go through the rigorous testing, and when you get such a certification as a Dan Certification Holder, it’s a world recognize certification, and I’m so happy with the class of the young ones here; our future is so bright for the game.”

Even before the Africa Games camp opens, the federation, he insisted, is working nonstop to keep its athletes in top physical condition.

“We just finished a two-week national camping training exercise in Birnin-Kebbi and will soon begin the President Cup, which will feature the best of all our Olympic medal classes, after which we will look at our calendar for the next open," he concluded

The Nigeria Taekwondo Federation International Kuikiwon Seminar and Dan Testing was concluded at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.

Source: Pulse Sport

https://www.pulsesports.ng/other-sports/story/nigeria-taekwondo-federation-set-for-nationwide-grassroots-development-2023052010514472222

Erling Haaland has become a strong contender for the Ballon d'Or award after Manchester City qualified for the Champions League final at the expense of Real Madrid. The Norwegian star is likely to win a treble and become topscorer in all competitions.
Manchester City’s progress into the Champions League final now means Erling Haaland stands a chance of winning the Ballon d’Or.

Though the Norwegian striker did not find the back of the net in the two legged fixture against Real Madrid bit he has scored 12 goals in the elite competition this season.

The 22-year-old is now a strong contender alongside Lionel Messi, Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe for the most prized football individual award.

Erling Haaland has become a strong contender for the Ballon d'Or award after Manchester City qualified for the Champions League final at the expense of Real Madrid. The Norwegian star is likely to win a treble and become topscorer in all competitions.
Manchester City’s progress into the Champions League final now means Erling Haaland stands a chance of winning the Ballon d’Or.

Though the Norwegian striker did not find the back of the net in the two legged fixture against Real Madrid bit he has scored 12 goals in the elite competition this season.

The 22-year-old is now a strong contender alongside Lionel Messi, Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe for the most prized football individual award.

Here are 3 reasons Haaland could win the 2022 Ballon d’Or award

1. Man City’s status in Europe this season
Pep Guardiola’s side are aiming for an incredible treble, a feat Sir Alex Ferguson achieved during the 1998-98 season with Manchester United.

City are favourites in winning the Premier League, FA Cup and the Champions League which would be of huge benefit to their star player Haaland.

If City win the three club competitions, there is no doubt Haaland will finish on the podium among his strong competitors.

2. Haaland’s remarkable scoring form in his debut season with City
Haaland has proved every penny of his big summer money move from Borussia Dortmund to the city of Manchester.

His 52 goals across all competitions is evident that the 22-year-old will contend for Ballon d’Or with the likes of Lionel Messi and Karim Benzema.

3. The status of other top contenders
Apart from the World Cup trophy, Messi as well as Mbappe are aiming for the Ligue1 title with Paris Saint-Germain, as they are five points clear of second place Lens with three games to go.

On the other hand, Benzema will now only settle for the already won Copa del Rey with Real Madrid while Robert Lewandowski’s La Liga title is also the only thing the Polish striker has to present this season.

However, despite not playing at the World Cup, if Haaland emerges as the topscorer in the Premier League, Champions League and the FA Cup, it would boost his chances to overthrow Messi


Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/man-city-vs-real-madrid-3-reasons-haaland-could-win-ballon-dor-ahead-of-messi-after-champions-league-triumph-2023051810175045809

Real Madrid were humbled by Man City when they visited the Etihad in the Champions League decider. Carlo Ancelotti's men failed to live up to the billing as they crashed out of the competition.

Manchester City spectacularly qualified for the Champions League final at the expense of Real Madrid after recording an emphatic 4-0 victory over the defending champions.

The tie was open to both sides after settling for a 1-1 scoreline at the Santiago Bernabeu but there had to be a winner at the Etihad in the reverse fixture.

And no one expected the Citizens to run ragged of the defending champions with an outrageous scoreline.

Here are 4 things Real Madrid did wrong in the return leg at the Etihad

1. Real sat back for too long
Real Madrid wanted to play from the back as usual and develop their attack through the wings but it backfired.

City mounted pressure on their opponents forcing them to pass the ball back to Thibaut Courtois who was having more possession than some of his teammates.

2. They made too many mistakes
In a post match interview, Carlo Ancleotti also admitted that his men made a lot of faulty passes which gave City the upper hand as they brewed in confidence.

Veteran midfielders Toni Kroos and Luka Modric were nowhere to be found in the game as they ran out of ideas the few times they touched the ball in the first half.

Instead, the likes of IIkay Gundogan, Kevin de Bruyne, Rodri and Bernardo Silva ran the show as they beat Madrid to their passing game.

3. Too much reliance on wing play
Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo were expected to be unleashed down the wings to trouble City’s defence but Manuel Akanji and Kyle Walker defied the odds.

Karim Benzema was also anonymous as he had few touches on the ball and that also made Madrid look ordinary going forward.

4. Madrid did not take risk
With the way Real were dominated, it was expected that Ancelotti would instruct his team to change tactics after City went ahead through Bernardo Silva.

The only meaningful chances that came in the game from Real were from Toni Kroos and Alaba’s shots from outside of the 18-yard box which was expertly dealt with by Ederson.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/man-city-vs-real-madrid-4-things-real-madrid-did-wrong-in-loss-to-city-2023051808235999107

After breaching FA's Betting Rules, the Brentford striker has been suspended for 8 months after pleading guilty to 232 betting offences, but which other players have been banned for betting?

Pulse Sports reported that Brentford striker Ivan Toney has been suspended from football and all football-related activities for eight months after pleading guilty to 232 betting offences.

The FA in a statement confirmed the ruling on Wednesday that Toney will be banned until January 16, 2023 and is also allowed to train in September 2023.

An official statement from the FA read:
'Ivan Toney has been suspended from all football and football-related activity with immediate effect for eight months, which runs up to and including 16 January 2024, fined £50,000 and warned as to his future conduct for breaches of The FA's Betting Rules.

'The Brentford FC forward was charged with 262 breaches of FA Rule E8 in total between 25 February 2017 and 23 January 2021. The FA subsequently withdrew 30 of these breaches and he admitted to the remaining 232.

'His sanctions were subsequently imposed by an independent Regulatory Commission following a personal hearing.

He is permitted to return to training only with his club for the final four months of his suspension starting from 17 September 2023.

The lands a major blow to Ivan Toney's domestic and international future, with the Bees striker having won call-ups to Gareth Southgate's England squad thanks to his fruitful goal-scoring season in west London.

Toney has also been touted for a move away from the G-tech community stadium with Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea rumoured to be keeping an eye on the Brentford hitman.

The 27-year-old Northampton native has also been fined £50,000 by the FA and warned over his future conduct in relation to the governing body's betting regulations.

Ivan Toney has so far netted an impressive 21 goals in 35 appearances for Brentford this season.

Why was Ivan Toney banned?

The Brentford striker was charged with allegedly breaching the FA's betting rules on 232 occasions in a time period stretching from February 2017 and January 2021.

Prior to the FA’s final verdict on the matter, Ivan Toney had reacted on social media when reports of an investigation into his betting breach emerged.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/ivan-toney-and-other-footballers-who-have-been-banned-for-sports-betting-2023051717342875616

Barcelona continue to make plans to facilitate the return of Lionel Messi and certain players have been told they will not be in the club's thinking next season.

Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez has reportedly scheduled a meeting with 4 first-team players to inform them that their future lies outside Camp Nou.

Xavi makes preparations for Messi return

Messi is set to leave PSG on a free transfer this summer and despite a huge economic attempt to recruit the legendary Argentine forward to Saudi Arabia, his preference remains a return to Barcelona.

The Blaugrana have financial restraints at the moment, making any such move very difficult to pull off.

To that effect, Mirror Football has reported that at least 4 first-team players will have to be let go in order to register new contracts.

Xavi is now expected to hold talks with Ferran Torres, Ansu Fati, Franck Kessie, and Jordi Alba, telling them that they will not form part of his plans next season as the club look to free-up funds to bolster their squad.

Big picture for Barca

Despite securing a first LaLiga title in four years, Barca will want to quickly return to a force in European football, and bringing Messi back could set them on the right path.


Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/xavi-tells-4-barcelona-stars-to-leave-the-club-as-messi-return-edges-closer-2023051705455948894

Arsenal lost 3-0 to Brighton on Sunday to all but end their hopes of a first league title since 2004 but things may have been different if the club had a certain Portuguese on their books.

After several months of exhilarating, high-level football, Mikel Arteta's Arsenal have seemingly run out of steam, at the worst time too.

Piers Morgan on Arsenal's woes
Television personality and vocal Arsenal supporter, Piers Morgan could not hide his displeasure, tweeting:

A horribly lacklustre, passion-devoid, spiritless, pathetic performance that cements an inexplicably dismal run-in to a season which promised so much. Bottom line: we choked."

Morgan who conducted the controversial interview with Ronaldo in December that led to a messy divorce from Manchester United and a move to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, continued to respond to fans on Twitter.

Ronaldo to Arsenal?

He made a bold claim regarding Ronaldo and Arsenal by saying, "Mock all you like, but if we’d signed Ronaldo when he left United, until the end of the season - as he was keen to do btw - we would have won the League,"

It is hard to say definitively if the Gunners would have won the Premier League with Ronaldo on their books but it certainly remains an intriguing prospect.

Source: Pulse Sports

Israel Adesanya’s ex-girlfriend stands a very good chance of receiving a big chunk of Izzy’s assets

Pulse Sports reported that the reigning UFC middleweight fighter Israel Adesanya is in trouble after his ex-girlfriend Charlotte Powdrell sued him, demanding a fifty per cent share of his wealth.

However, Izzy, as he is fondly called, responded by informing her that his wealth is well-protected, like Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi.

The controversy has been ongoing for a while, with both parties refusing to back down but “going for each other’s jugular.’’

In an attempt to bring our readers all the important details in this broiling controversy, Pulse Sports reviewed a document named Property Relationships Act (PRA) by the New Zealand Law Society.

The report contains guidelines binding on married couples in a civil union or a de facto relationship.

Charlotte Powdrell can take advantage of some loopholes in this law and lay claims to at least half of the assets of the 'The Last Stylebender' because they lived in New Zealand together.

Here are nine reasons why Izzy might be forced to share part of his wealth with his ex-girlfriend, even when they were not legally married.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/charlotte-powdrell-9-reasons-why-israel-adesanya-may-be-forced-to-share-wealth-with-ex-girlfriend-2023051612345322107

Leicester City have started preparing for life in the Championship, with Nigeria Super Eagles duo senior man Kelechi Iheanacho and his hype man Wilfred Ndidi set to lose millions in earning.

Nigerian duo Iheanacho and Ndidi are set for a major drop in their wages at Leicester City come end of the current season.

This comes as the Foxes have began preparing for life in the English Championship with Premier League relegation looming large at the King Power.

According to a report from the Daily Mail, Leicester have already suspended their end of year awards for the season with more drastic measures to be taken in event the club is relegated.

Ndid, Iheanacho face wage cuts

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/super-eagles-stars-iheanacho-and-ndidi-set-to-lose-over-n45-million-in-earnings-2023051512584040490
Leicester will continue to their quest to beat the drop with a difficult game against Champions League football-chasing Liverpool later tonight at the King Power Stadium.

After a poor outing against relegation-threatened Everton, Ian Wright watched Brighton and Hove Albion show up in London to prove to Arsenal they are the landlords at the Emirates.

Legendary Arsenal striker Ian Wright was in his feelings after watching his former club fall like a pack of cards at home in the Premier League.

Wright, who played for the Gunners from 1991 to 1998, said that his Arsenal were outplayed at home by visitors Brighton and Hove Albion following a shocking outing on Sunday.

The former Gunner was on punditary duty for the Premier League at the Emirates and witnessed Brighton put Arsenal 3-0 to the sword at home.

Arsenal were second best

Goals from Enciso, Undav and Estupinan inspired the Seagulls to a comprehensive outing for the third game in a row at the Emirates.

The win ended whatever title aspirations Mikel Arteta and his Gunners had heading into the game as they dropped four points behind leaders Manchester City, who have a game in hand.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://read.pulsesports.ng/an-Wright-reacts-to-Arsenal-crushing-defeat

Israel Adesanya has ranked among the top 5 most influential mixed martial artists in the world.

The Mixed Martial Arts industry is home to some of the most famous professional fighters in the world.

Some of these athletes have crossed various divides all across the industry from the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and even the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).

The UFC is currently the biggest company in the MMA industry and it comes as no surprise that a host of fighters have amassed millions of followers over the years headlining pay-per-views at Sold-out locations.

A new study has now revealed which superstar athletes have the most influence in the Mixed Martial Arts industry.

Who is the most influential athlete in the MMA?

Source: Pulse Sports

https://read.pulsesports.ng/Top-5-most-influential-MMA-stars-in-2023

Nottingham Forest ace Taiwo Awoniyi speaks after his brace denied Chelsea three points.

Although he is disappointed they failed to grab the maximum possible points, Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi was happy with his team's performance, which he said went according to plan.

The former Liverpool man scored twice as Nottingham Forest held Chelsea to a 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge, taking them four points clear of the closest rival in the drop zone.

The Ilorin-born striker gave Steve Cooper's side a 13th-minute lead, rising highest and heading past Mendy before a double by Raheem Sterling in the 51st and 58th minutes grabbed an equaliser and subsequently took the lead for Chelsea.

The 25-year-old will not let his team go down without a fight, though, connecting with an Orel Mangala delivery to restore parity and earn them a big point away from home.

Source: Pulse Sports

https://read.pulsesports.ng/taiwo-awoniyi-on-hi-brace-against-chelsea-fc