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Former Chelsea striker Diego Costa will undergo a medical with Premier League outfit Wolves on Tuesday, Sky Sports reports.

If Costa passes his medical, there is the possibility that he will be offered a contract by Wolves as they look to replace new signing Sasa Kalajdzic, who will visit a knee specialist after suffering an ACL injury at the weekend.

Costa is a free agent and Bruno Lage’s side are able to complete a deal to sign him outside the transfer window.

Wolves had been looking for a new striker since the start of the summer and thought they found the answer when they brought in Kalajdzic from Stuttgart in a £15.5m deal plus add-ons.

But the club confirmed in a statement on Sunday that Kalajdzichad picked up his long-term injury during his debut against Southampton, which Wolves won 1-0.

The setback was a double blow for Wolves on Saturday, with Lage losing striker Raul Jimenez to injury in the warm-up, with the Mexican striker having on-and-off injury problems since the start of pre-season this summer.

“Sasa felt a pain in his knee late in the first half against Southampton. Unfortunately, scans reveal an anterior cruciate injury and he will see a knee specialist tomorrow [Monday],” a statement from Wolves read. “We now need to support Sasa in his recovery and further updates will follow.

Since leaving Chelsea in the summer of 2017, Costa spent three-and-a-half years at Atletico Madrid, scoring 19 goals in 81 matches in all competitions, before his contract was mutually terminated in December 2020.

He joined Brazilian club Atletico Mineiro in August 2021 and scored five times in 19 games, but saw his contract terminated in January of this year.

Costa has spent the last eight months away from football but could make a stunning move back to the Premier League should his trial end up being successful.


Source: https://www.completesports.com/ex-chelsea-star-costa-set-for-wolves-medical-tuesday/

Former Arsenal and Chelsea star Willian is set for a remarkable return to the Premier League with a move to newly promoted Fulham, the Daily Mail reports.

The Craven Cottage club are working to sign the former Brazil international on a free transfer and hope to compete the deal on Tuesday.

Willian has been training with Fulham as he prioritised a return to England this summer.

The 34-year-old left Brazilian club Corinthians earlier this month and is a free agent.

He got offers from several clubs across Europe but Fulham are firmly in pole position to sign Willian who impressed Marco Silva during his training stint.

There is no immediate rush for Willian to sign for a new club because he is a free agent meaning he can join a team outside the transfer window – that closes on August 31.

But Fulham expect to complete the deal in the next 48 hours.

Earlier this month Willian revealed he agreed to terminate his contract with Corinthians because of relentless death threats on social media he and his family were subjected to by angry fans.

He also said that the level of violence among Brazilian supporters was among the reasons behind his departure after less than a year at the club.

In an interview with Globo Esporte, Willian said the hostile atmosphere created by furious supporters, who he said threatened him and his family if he played poorly or if Corinthians lost, was the main reason for him leaving the club.

“The reasons for my departure are the threats I suffered, especially my family,” he said.

“The threats never stopped. Whenever Corinthians lost and if sometimes I was not doing well in the game, my family received threats, curses on social media. My wife, my daughters, after a while they also started attacking my father, my sister.

“When I returned to Brazil, I came back with a lot of desire to play for Corinthians.

“I knew the pressure, the demands, the criticism I would receive, but I did not come to Brazil to be threatened, to have my family threatened with every game I lost or if I didn’t play a good game. That’s the main reason.”


Source: https://www.completesports.com/willian-close-to-premier-league-return-with-fulham/

Former England forward, Garry Birtles, has slammed Alex Iwobi and his teammates’ atrocious defending in the lead-up to Brentford’s goal in the 1-1 draw with Everton at the Gtech Community Stadium on Saturday, but is particularly irked by the Nigeria winger’s role in the howler.

Anthony Gordon scored the first goal for Everton in the 24th minute with a well-placed left-footed strike. Vitaly Janelt equalised in the 84th minute after a corner-kick for the home team – an easy tap-in when Kean Lewis-Potter flicked the ball off the corner-kick swung into the box by Mathias Jensen.

While speaking live on the world feed match commentary about the 200
22/23 Premier League matchday 4 game, as quoted by Goodisonnews.com, Birtles chided Iwobi and his teammates’ defending.

“I tell you what, that defending was abysmal, absolutely abysmal. Look at this, how many blue shirts are there? There’s the flick, who’s picking up (who)? Look at Iwobi, stood there not looking. This is scandalous defending,” Birtles remarked.

“It looked offside there but Iwobi, he’s just stood there look, what’s he doing!? How many blue shirts can you see there? Four in a line with no red and white shirts there. One man in there, scores a goal this is shocking.

“Pickford’s gone mad and rightly so. Pickford’s still going absolutely berserk at his defenders… Iwobi was just looking at nothing but there were four teammates also doing similar. Nobody picked anybody up, all of them were like statues, and it was just a simple tap-in.

“It’s a flick on, then somebody else picks up. Nobody was watching what was going on whatsoever, and I think that’s what’s annoyed Pickford so much.”

Iwobi has made five appearances in all competitions for Everton this season and has registered one assist.

He has scored 10 goals in 58 appearances for the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

Everton are currently 17th in the Premier League with two points after matchday four.


Source: https://www.completesports.com/birtles-slams-iwobi-teammates-poor-defending-in-everton-1-1-draw-at-brentford/

Two high-profile football administrators, Musa Amadu and Ibrahim Musa Gusau have declared their intentions to replace incumbent Amaju Pinnick as the next president of the Nigeria Football Federation.

In separate press conferences to declare their intentions, the two aspirants; Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, the Chairman of Chairmen in the current executive committee of the Nigeria Football Federation and Barrister Musa Amadu a former General Secretary of NFF, said they want to unify Nigerian football and put in the right conditions.

Musa Amadu who was the first to make his intentions known at a well-attended press conference in Abuja promised to get Nigerian football back on track by not only fixing the rot but getting it right, adding that transparency and integrity will be his watchword

“The new NFF under my watch will be encompassing and purpose-driven. I will constitute an Elders Committee that will comprise of past NFF presidents and general secretaries and prominent football personalities to advise my executive members,” Amadu told Completesports.com in an exclusive interview

“I will focus on resuscitation of female teams whose fortunes have plummeted in recent years. The youths and our leagues will also get priority attention under my leadership. The Super Eagles which is our biggest brand will be heavily backed to win laurels for the nation,” Amadu stated

On his part, Alhaji Gusau said his first task will be to unite the football family adding that without peace, much success will not be achieved in and out of the football pitch.

Gusau who is the chairman of Zamfara State Football Association said that while getting the blessings of the people of Zamfara stated that charity begins at home, hence his seeking the backing of his people

“Reinvigorating football at the grassroots will be key in my administration. I promise to prioritize youth football development across the country. I will also put my wealth of experience to work and ensure that we regain our lost glory,” Gusau, a CAF Youth Committee member, stated.

“My administration will be transparent and I will ensure that all stakeholders are involved in the development of the game in the country.”


Source: https://www.completesports.com/nff-elections-amadu-gusau-join-race-to-replace-pinnick/

Ogenyi Onazi was in action as the Home Eagles rallied back from two goals down to beat local side Mahanaim 3-2 in a friendly match at the practice pitch of the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja.

Onazi played the first 45 minutes of the thrilling encounter.

The midfielder is training with the team to keep fit as he look to secure a move to a foreign club.

Mahanaim scored two quick goals in the first half before the Home Eagles rallied back after the break to win the game.

Salisu Yusuf’s side will face AS Roma Academy in their second friendly.

The Eagles are preparing for the 2023 African Nations Championship qualifiers against Ghana.

The first leg is billed for the Cape Coast Stadium on August 28, while the reverse fixture will take place in Abuja.

The overall winners will qualify for CHAN 2023 to be hosted by Algeria.


Source: https://www.completesports.com/onazi-in-action-as-home-eagles-beat-local-side-in-friendly/

Former Manchester United winger, Nani, has disclosed that Cristiano Ronaldo has made up his mind to leave Old Trafford.

Nani in an interview with Rio Ferdinand’s VIBE WITH FIVE Podcast, stated that the Portuguese international doesn’t have time” to be part of a long-term project at the club.

“It’s a long time since we played together and Cristiano is not a kid anymore.

“Times change and the reactions and attitude can change as well. But, as we see, he’s doing the same things as usual; he doesn’t like to lose, he reacts when the team is not doing well.

“But the only difference is that it’s different times. He’s playing again at Man United but he’s been all over the world doing well at different teams with different players. He’s in a team where the managers are trying to build a strong team and it’s not easy, it takes time.

“For Cristiano, he doesn’t have time to lose on building teams or waiting for the next season. He wants to continue to be at the top, scoring goals, being the man. That’s why the reaction is normal, we all have the wrong reactions sometimes.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/nani-why-ronaldo-is-desperate-to-leave-man-united/

Chelsea American winger Christian Pulisic is being linked with a move to Manchester United.

United have failed to get deals for Barcelona’s Frenkie De Jong and Juventus’s Adrien Rabiot over the line, and have now switched their focus to US international Pulisic.

And according to the Mirror, Chelsea have received an inquiry from United to sign Pulisic, with the request likely to be rebuffed by the London club, who would be more interested in a loan deal.

Pulisic, who United were interested in before Chelsea signed him from Borussia Dortmund for £58million in 2019, has two years left on his current deal and is frustrated at his limited playing time.

The 23-year-old was a substitute in Chelsea’s opening two Premier League games this season and has played just 30 minutes in total from the bench.

United boss Erik ten Hag is looking for a versatile attacker who can provide a threat from out wide on the right, with Pulisic fitting the profile of the player he wants.

As well as United, Juventus and Atletico Madrid are also understood to have registered their interest in Pulisic, who is desperate for more game-time ahead of the World Cup this winter.

It is understood Chelsea’s willingness to let Pulisic leave, either on loan or in a permanent switch, is dependent on their ability to bring in a replacement for him.

Chelsea have so far had two offers rejected for Everton forward Anthony Gordon, with United’s pursuit of Pulisic looking like resting on whether or not the Blues can close that deal or bring in an alternative.


Source: h[b]ttps://www.completesports.com/chelseas-pulisic-linked-with-move-to-man-united/[/b]

Former Nigerian striker, Jonathan Akpoborie believes the partnership of Emmanuel Dennis and Taiwo Awoniyi in the attacking line of Nottingham Forest will cause nightmare for other teams in the Premier League.

Recall that Dennis recently joined the Forest from Watford and is expected to form a strong partnership with his Nigerian compatriot.

At the weekend, Awoniyi netted Nottingham Forest’s only goal in their 1-0 win over West Ham in the Premier League.

However, in a chat with Completesports.com, the former Wolfsburg striker stated that the Awoniyi’s power play and Dennis’ brilliant goal scoring sense will cause havoc for most teams in the league.

“The arrival of Dennis to Nottingham Forest is good move that will benefit Awoniyi, most especially if they are paired together in the attack.

“No doubt they will be deadly and difficult to handle for defenders in the Premier League. We know what Dennis can do and I believe his experience will count for Nottingham Forest.”


Source: https://www.completesports.com/exclusive-awoniyi-dennis-combo-will-be-deadly-for-nottingham-forest-in-epl-akpoborie/

Erik ten Hag has said that Marcus Rashford will remain with Manchester United this season amid interest from Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint Germain in the forward.

It emerged this week that PSG had met with representatives of Rashford as they look to bolster their options this summer.

However, speaking ahead of United’s trip to Brentford in the Saturday teatime game, Ten Hag stated that Rashford remains an important part of the Red Devils squad this season.

“He’s really important, you have seen from the first day I’m here, I’m really happy with him,” Ten Hag said.

“I don’t want to lose him he’s definitely in our plans at Manchester United.”

Rashford will hope to help United bounce back from their disappointing opening day 2-1 defeat to Brighton at Old Trafford, when they head to London to face Brentford.

The United academy graduate had a big opportunity to draw United level with the scoreline at 2-1 but saw his effort come off Brighton’s keeper despite going one on one.


Source: https://www.completesports.com/ten-hag-opens-up-on-rashford-man-united-future-amid-interest-from-psg/

Timo Werner says both RB Leipzig and former club Chelsea share similar high ambitions.

On Tuesday Werner completed a permanent move thought to be worth in the region of €30 million back to Leipzig.

The German international is keen to kick-start his career ahead of the World Cup in Qatar after a disappointing two-year spell at Stamford Bridge.

He joined Chelsea in 2020 for €50m, opting not to take part in Leipzig’s rescheduled Champions League quarterfinal against Atletico Madrid — delayed due to COVID-19 — to give himself more time to adapt to English football.

Werner started well, scoring eight goals in his first 12 games up to mid-November, but managed just four more for the rest of the campaign as a loss of form and confidence set in.

Chelsea signed Romelu Lukaku for a club-record €115m last summer in a fresh challenge to Werner, but head coach Thomas Tuchel began to favour Kai Havertz as his central striker.

Although Lukaku has now returned to Inter on loan, Chelsea beat Everton 1-0 in their first game of the Premier League season with Havertz leading the line.

Tuchel’s side are in the market for another forward, and Barcelona’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is among those under consideration.

Werner was completely left out of the Chelsea squad for the match against Everton as talks with Leipzig continued.

He has scored 23 goals in 89 appearances for Chelsea and although Tuchel is thought to be reluctant to part with the forward given the wider pressure to strengthen the squad, there is recognition the midseason World Cup has heightened the player’s fears over a lack of regular action.

And speaking after rejoining Leipzig, Werner was quoted on the Bundesliga club’s Twitter handle:”I’m really pleased to be back in Leipzig. The last 24 hours have been really exciting and it’s been a lot of fun to see so many familiar faces again.

“I had a good time in England. I learnt a lot and got to know a new league. At the same time, Leipzig developed a lot too. They’ve won a title and have the same high ambitions as Chelsea.”

Werner confessed that he always followed Leipzig’s performances while at Chelsea and stated that he had a good partnership with Christopher Nkunku in his first stint with the club.

“Christopher Nkunku and I worked well together in the past. I always followed Leipzig and I know that there’s a lot of quality here. I want to play my part in that.

“I think RB Leipzig’s style of football is a good mix of controlled attacking and fast counters. I want to use my quality to help make the team even better.

“I’ve always felt very at home in Leipzig. I’m comfortable here and it’s also important for me to be a bit closer to my family.”

He added:”I will do my best to get back into the knack of scoring as many goals as possible. Individual awards take second priority for me. There are a lot of good attackers in the league and more goals are being scored in general.”

“I think the level of general encouragement there has been since the announcement is fantastic. I’m delighted to be back here. The fans have always supported me in Leipzig and I’m delighted to be able to play in front of them again.”


Source: https://www.completesports.com/leipzig-have-same-high-ambitions-as-chelsea-werner/

Paris Saint-Germain have joined Chelsea in the race for Leicester City defender Wesley Fofana.

According to Le Parisien, PSG are ready to scupper Chelsea’s plans to sign the centre-back.

The Blues have had two bids rejected for the 21-year-old – the most recent of which was an offer for £70million.

As the Blues have found out, it could take a mammoth bid for the Ligue 1 champions to convince Leicester to sell their star defender.

Brendan Rodgers insisted three times last week that the defender was not for sale.

The Leicester boss has held talks with the French U21 international, in an attempt to convince the player to stay at the King Power Stadium.


Source: https://www.completesports.com/psg-to-rival-chelsea-for-fofana/

Alex Iwobi has revealed the secret behind his new-found form at Premier League club, Everton, reports Completesports.com.

Iwobi has enjoyed a new lease of life at the Goodison Park under manager Frank Lampard.

The Nigeria international stood out during the club’s push for survival last season and continued from there with another another superb showing in the 1-0 defeat to Chelsea last weekend.

Iwobi stated that a private chat with Lampard was key to his performance against the Blues.

“I had a meeting with the manager before the game (vs Chelsea) who told me – especially when we are going on the attack – that I should look around and be aware of my surroundings,” Iwobi told evertontv

“It helped me going into the game and felt like I did okay.

“I felt quite comfortable in midfield. The defence was always talking to me and helping me, so I was always in the right positions at the right times.”

He added: “The gaffer is always talking to me, motivating me and telling me to go out and express myself, kick on from last season, and I feel like I’ve done that so far.

“But it’s a long season, it’s a marathon and there’s a long way to go.”


Source: https://www.completesports.com/iwobi-lampard-has-boosted-my-self-belief/

Tosin Adarabioyo put up an impressive performance as Fulham were held to 2-2 draw by Liverpool at the Craven Cottage on Saturday afternoon.

Adarabioyo was in action for 90 minutes in the thrilling encounter.

Aleksandar Mitrovic put Fulham ahead with a header two minutes after the half hour mark.

Liverpool rallied back with substitute Darwin Nunez netting the equaliser off a cross from Mohamed Salah in the 64th minute.

Mitrovic scored for the second time in the game in the 72nd minute converting from the spot after he was fell inside the box by Virgil van Dijk.

Salah restored parity for Liverpool 10 minutes from time.

The visitors came close claiming all three points in stoppage time when Jordan Henderson effort cannoned off the crossbar.


Source: https://www.completesports.com/premier-league-adarabioyo-impresses-as-liverpool-hold-fulham/

Chelsea have announced the signing of Marc Cucurella on a six-year deal from Brighton & Hove Albion.

The Blues paid £55m plus £7m add-ons for the Spaniard.

“Following reports from numerous media outlets this week, we can confirm an agreement has been reached with Brighton and Hove Albion for the signing of Marc Cucurella,” reads a tweet on the club’s official website.

Cucurella leaves Albion after a year at the club, having joined from Getafe last summer.

The left-back made 35 appearances for the club, scoring one goal and making two assists.

He won Brighton & Hove Albion’s Players’ Player and Supporters’ Player of the season at the end of season awards back in May.

The defender has represented Spain from U-16s all the way up to senior level, making his senior team debut in a 4-0 win against Lithuania in June 2021 and represented Spain at the Olympic Games in Tokyo, where he won a silver medal.


Source: https://www.completesports.com/official-cucurella-joins-chelsea-on-six-year-contract/

Arsenal have sent their Nigerian striker Folarin Balogun on a season-long loan to Ligue 1 outfit Stade de Reims.

The Gunners announced the loan move on their website on Wednesday.

“Folarin Balogun has joined Ligue 1 side Stade de Reims on a season-long loan.

“The 21-year-old forward joined our academy in 2012 aged 10 and showcased an impressive goalscoring record throughout youth football.

“The 2020/21 season saw Flo make his first-team debut, as well as signing a long-term contract with the club.

“The American-born striker made an immediate impact following his breakthrough when he scored twice in the Europa League from just five substitute appearances

“Flo spent the second half of last season on loan at Championship side Middlesborough, where he made 21 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals and assisting three times.

“Everyone at Arsenal wishes Flo all the best this coming season with Stade de Reims.

“The loan deal is subject to the completion of regulatory processes.”

Born in the United States to Nigerian parents and raised in England, Balogun is eligible to represent all three nations at international level.


Source: https://www.completesports.com/official-balogun-joins-french-club-reims-on-loan/

Former Nigeria striker, Victor Ikpeba, has advised Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen to always be calm and avoid getting himself into the wrong books for both club and country.

Napoli and Super Eagles star, Osimhen has recently been grabbing headlines for the wrong reasons, following disagreements with his family and training ground bust up at Napoli.

However, in a chat with Comfort 95.1 FM, Ikpeba has urged Osimhen to calm down and focus on his career.

“Human beings are different. I remember my time as a professional footballer many years ago, I had my personality and character. I was very outspoken but had respect for senior players.

“Osimhen is still a young guy. I don’t care what people think about me. When anything is on social media, people tend to take sides. I honestly don’t have any problem with him.

“The sky is his limit but he needs to concentrate. People have to manage stardom. The Victor I saw at VfL Wolfsburg, Sporting Charleroi and OSC Lille carried himself decently. Going to Napoli might have changed his mind. He should calm down. The lad hasn’t achieved anything yet. He should try to emulate players like Mane and Salah.

“Before the boy went to Napoli, he was a decent young chap. I hope people around the boy advise him. He can’t continue to get into the wrong books as a star player of club and country.

“I honestly want Osimhen to do well, he has the attributes and talent to do so. Football can unforgiven sometimes. Look at Mario Balotelli, a lot of Nigerian footballers have had this opportunity and lost it. Osimhen is at the right place and right time.”

The ‘Prince of Monaco’ stressed further, “My advice for him is to calm down. He needs people who will tell him the truth. Players need to listen to people who are close to them. He should calm down, training ground issues can happen but they shouldn’t be constant.

“What I said after Nigeria vs Ghana game was the truth. I have played the game to the highest level, so I can’t be afraid to criticize these players. The problem with the media and fans in Nigeria is that we are afraid to criticize these players. As far as it is constructive, we shouldn’t be afraid. All that I said about Osimhen was constructive. He may not like it but that’s the truth.”


Source: https://www.completesports.com/osimhen-must-avoid-getting-himself-into-the-wrong-books-ikpeba-2/

Manchester United’s Brazil left-back Alex Telles is closing in on a loan move to La Liga side Sevilla, according to BBC Sport.

Telles has been squeezed at United after the arrival of new boss Erik ten Hag’s first signing, Tyrell Malacia.


With the former Feyenoord man vying with Luke Shaw for the left-back slot, Telles spent much of pre-season playing in central defence.

However, that will not continue into this Premier League campaign after Lisandro Martinez signed from Dutch giants Ajax.
It means Telles is risking his World Cup place if he does not get a move.

The 29-year-old was recalled to the Brazil squad in January after a 14-month absence.

Telles joined United in 2020, signing for 15m euros (£13.6m) from Porto.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/man-united-defender-telles-close-to-joining-sevilla/

Xavi said he would be open to the possibility of Lionel Messi returning to Barcelona, though admitted that a deal is currently “impossible”, Eurosport reports.

Messi ended a 21-year association with Barcelona last summer, departing on a free transfer to Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain after financial difficulties left Barcelona unable to renew his contract.

The Argentine endured an injury-disrupted first campaign at PSG scoring just eleven times in all competitions; his worst return since the 2005-06 season.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta suggested recently that he was keen for Messi to return to Barcelona for a “more beautiful ending” to his career.

And while seemingly dismissing any immediate prospect of the Argentina captain returning to the club, Xavi did not rule out a potential reunion with his former team-mate.

“At the moment, signing Leo Messi is impossible. He has a contract with Paris [Saint-Germain].

“We will see in the future. It’s not the time to talk about him.”

Messi signed a two-year deal when joining PSG last summer, with the possibility of a further year’s extension.

Laporta nonetheless fuelled speculation that the 35-year-old’s Barcelona career had not reached a full stop when he suggested it was his “responsibility” to make amends for a shock, unplanned departure from the club.

“Messi was everything,” Laporta said to ESPN.

“To Barca, he’s been possibly its greatest player, the most efficient. To me he’s only comparable to Johan Cruyff. But it had to happen one day. We had to make a decision as a consequence of what we inherited. The institution is in charge of players, coaches.

“I would hope that the Messi chapter isn’t over. I think it’s our responsibility to try to… find a moment to fix that chapter, which is still open and hasn’t closed, so it turns out like it should have, and that it has a more beautiful ending.”


Source: https://www.completesports.com/xavi-open-to-messi-returning-to-barcelona/

Nigeria’s Tobi Amusan made history by winning gold medal in the Women’s 100m Hurdles on the final day of 2022 World Athletics Championships in Oregon, United States of America, reports Completesports.com.

Amusan is the first African and Nigerian to achieve feat.

The Nigerian girl crossed the line with a scorching 12.06s (+2.5m/s) which would have been her second World Record (WR) of the evening but for the excess wind.

Jamaican Britany Anderson came second in
12.23s, while Olympic Champion Jasmine Camacho-Quinn settled for Bronze with the same time.

Gloria Alozie was the first Nigerian to win a medal in the 100m Hurdles at the World Championships.

Alozie achieved the feat in Sevilla, Spain in 1999.

Also, Ese Brume claimed Silver medal in the women’s Long Jump.

Brume produced a huge 7.02m, her biggest jump of the year to come second in the event.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/oregon-2022-amusan-wins-gold-in-100mh-brume-claims-silver-in-long-jump/

Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola has debunked reports claiming that he has the intention of signing Paris Saint German (PSG) star, Neymar this summer.

The 30-year-old, who has been linked with City and their Premier League rivals, Chelsea, this summer, has been called into question this summer, with new PSG sporting director Luis Campos willing to offload him in the current window.

However, in an interview with the UK Sun, Guardiola noted that he admires the Brazilian international but has not plan to sign him to his squad.
“I’m sorry but it’s not true. Their information is not right.

“Neymar is an incredible player and the info I have he’s an incredibly nice guy. But it’s not right.

“Every summer City is going to buy 150 players!”.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/guardiola-speaks-on-signing-neymar/

President of the Nigeria Football Federation and FIFA Council Member, Mr Amaju Melvin Pinnick has showered encomiums on nine-time African champions, Super Falcons for a valiant display despite several odds and obstacles in their Women AFCON semi final encounter against host nation Morocco in Rabat on Monday night.

“Of course, we would have been happy to be in the Final and chase a 10th title. But I am happy with the performance of the team and the way and manner they approached the game despite all sorts of setbacks and intimidation.

“To play 50 minutes of a game with only nine players is not an easy task. The Super Falcons gave their all and were truly fabulous. They had the ‘Nigeria spirit’ in them and showed a sense of patriotism, were dogged and refused to give up. Penalties are forever a lottery, so it could have gone either way. I commend the team for the outing.”

The explusion of midfielder Halimat Ayinde in the 49th minute reduced Nigeria to 10 players, before referee Maria Rivet from Mauritius handed forward Rasheedat Ajibade a red card in the 70th minute, which cut Nigeria’s playing strength by two for the remaining 50 minutes (20 minutes of regulation and 30 minutes of extra time) of the thrilling encounter,

Uchenna Kanu had a touch on Nigeria’s goal in the 62nd minute though it was recorded as an own goal by Yasmin Mrabet, and Nigeria could have put the match in the bag when substitute Gift Monday rocked the crossbar with a well-taken shot from outside the box 11 minutes into extra time.

“Our girls did a massive job on a night they were not only depleted but challenged by laser lights trained on their eyes by the crowd. I am enamoured by their resilience and tenacity. The next step now is for the Federation to do everything possible to prepare the team adequately for the FIFA World Cup finals coming up next year.”

Pinnick added that he is delighted with the strong pipeline at the moment, with the U20 girls and U17 girls having also qualified for their respective FIFA World Cup tournaments and boasting interesting prospects who can easily fit into the senior team.

“The supply line looks strong enough to continue to present us with good and ambitious players for the coming years. We will have a delightful combination of experienced and youthful players for the World Cup finals.”

Already, the NFF has secured a total of four friendly matches for the Falcons in the Fall, with the team scheduled to play the United States Women’s National Team in Kansas City and Washington D. C in September, and also to fly to Japan to take on that country’s women’s squad in Kobe in October. Both opponents offer diversity in style and approach.

Nigeria, Morocco, South Africa and Zambia have qualified automatically for the 32-team FIFA Women’s World Cup fiesta to be staged in five Australian cities and four New Zealand cities 20th July – 20th August 2023. Cameroon and Senegal will battle for slots at a 10-team Playoff Tournament in New Zealand early next year.

The Super Falcons have arrived in Casablanca on Tuesday for Friday’s third place match against Zambia at the Complexe Mohamed V.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/pinnick-assures-super-falcons-of-adequate-preparation-for-world-cup/

Former Nigerian midfielder, Henry Nwosu has revealed that the Super Falcons should keep their head high despite losing to Morocco in the ongoing 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

Recall that Nigeria lost 5-4 on penalties after dragging the game into extra-time despite losing two key players in the second half to red card offenses.

In a chat with Completesports.com, Nwosu stated that the team must be commended for displaying great resilience and determination against the host nation.

“I don’t consider this as a defeat but a victory for the gallant Super Falcons despite going two players down and holding their own till the penalty shootouts.

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“Credit should be accorded to the women because it was a spirited performance from them. They showed great character and determination as far as I am concern.

The loss makes it the third time Nigeria will not feature in a WAFCON final since its inception. The other two occasions ended in third and fourth place finishes in 2008 and 2012 respectively, and Equatorial Guinea the eventual winners.

Nigeria will face Zambia in a third place match on Friday while both South Africa and Morocco will face off in the final on Saturday for a chance to win a maiden WAFCON title.

Source : https://www.completesports.com/exclusive-wafcon-2022-falcons-showed-great-character-determination-despite-loss-to-morocco-nwosu/
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Nani has appealed to Manchester United star, Cristiano Ronaldo not to dump the club for any other club.


Reports have claimed that the 37-year-old wants to United this summer, with Ronaldo not on tour in Australia due to ‘family issues’.

Former United winger Nani came up against his old club with Melbourne Victory on Friday night.

Nani, 35, played with Ronaldo for two years at Old Trafford and 11 years with the Portugal national team.

“When he’s on vacation he doesn’t answer the phone to anybody,” Nani said. “I tried to talk to him, but he said: ‘I’m so busy now, we’ll talk soon’.

“I hope (he stays). He’s an important player and a player who always makes a difference. I hope he’s in a good mood to help the club, so hopefully.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/please-dont-leave-man-united-nani-begs-ronaldo/

Former Liverpool winger Sheyi Ojo is set to re-join English Championship club Cardiff as they continue their major summer overhaul, Daily Mail reports.

Ojo has undergone a medical and is set to sign a three-year deal, becoming Cardiff’s 11th signing for manager Steve Morison.

The 25 year-old will join on a free after leaving Liverpool this summer at the end of his contract.

And Cardiff have held off interest from Championship rivals QPR to bring Ojo back to the Welsh capital.

Ojo enjoyed a successful loan spell at Cardiff during the 2020/21 season, making 42 appearances and scoring five times and creating seven goals.

That was one of a number of temporary spells he had while at Liverpool who he made 13 appearances for in total after joining the Anfield club aged 14 from MK Dons.

Ojo joined MK Dons’ academy when he was 10 years old. By the age of 13, he had played for the Dons’ U18 side and was training with the first team squad.

During his time at the club, Ojo became the first MK Dons trainee to receive an international cap at youth level.

On 11 November 2011, Liverpool beat off competition from a host of Europe’s top clubs including a multimillion-pound offer from Chelsea to sign Ojo, then 14, for an undisclosed fee believed to be in the region of £2 million.

In April 2014, Ojo was joint top scorer alongside fellow Liverpool player Harry Wilson in the prestigious U17 Future Cup.

Having made a number of appearances on Liverpool’s bench over the festive period, Ojo joined Wigan Athletic on loan on 2 February 2015.

Five days later, he made his professional debut coming on as a 59th-minute substitute for Wigan in a Championship match against AFC Bournemouth, with Wigan naming Ojo as their Man of the Match after he had a positive impact on the game.

He was recalled by Liverpool on 7 January 2016. The next day, Ojo made his competitive first-team debut for Liverpool, as a substitute in the FA Cup Third Round tie against Exeter City that ended in a 2–2 draw.

He scored his first competitive goal for Liverpool in the replay against Exeter on 20 January; his goal was the second in a 3–0 victory.

Ojo made his Premier League debut on 20 March 2016, replacing Joe Allen in the 87th minute in a 3–2 loss away to Southampton at St Mary’s Stadium.

Source" https://www.completesports.com/ojo-set-to-join-cardiff-city-on-three-year-deal/

Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly is set to join Chelsea on a long-term, according to multiple reports.

Despite the departures of Andreas Christensen, Antonio Rudiger and Romelu Lukaku, head coach Thomas Tuchel is still waiting to make his first addition of the summer transfer window.

The Premier League giants have been linked with numerous centre-backs, including Sevilla’s Jules Kounde and Juventus’ Matthijs de Ligt.

However, it has been widely suggested that Manchester City’s Nathan Ake is most likely to move to Stamford Bridge, returning for a second spell at the club.

In recent days, speculation has increased regarding the next move of Koulibaly with Chelsea known to want to bring another leadership figure into the group.

The Blues are allegedly prepared to meet the asking price of the Senegal international at a time when he has less than a year remaining on his contract.

According to French journalist Fabrice Hawkins, Chelsea are now closing in on wrapping up the transfer of the 31-year-old.

Hawkins says that Chelsea are ready to pay €40m (£33.91m) for Koulibaly, who is said to be ready to pen a three-year contract at the West Londoners.


The Blues are allegedly prepared to meet the asking price of the Senegal international at a time when he has less than a year remaining on his contract.

According to French journalist Fabrice Hawkins, Chelsea are now closing in on wrapping up the transfer of the 31-year-old.

Source::https://www.completesports.com/koulibaly-set-to-join-chelsea-from-napoli/

S
The football governing body revealed the nature of the injury and also stated that Oshoala will travel back to Spain on Thursday.

“Sad news from @NGSuper_Falcons camp: Top striker Asisat Oshoala is out of the ongoing WAFCON 2022.

“She sustained a Grade 2 Medial Collateral Ligament strain in the game against South Africa. She is due back in Spain on Thursday. Get well quick Asisat!“

Meanwhile, the Falcons will hope to bounce back from their defeat to South Africa when they take on debutants and Group C leaders Botswana on Thursday.

This year’s WAFCON also doubles as qualifiers for next year’s women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Source:https://www.completesports.com/breaking-oshoala-ruled-out-of-2022-wafcon/

President of the Botswana Football Association MacLean Letshwiti says his country’s women’s national team, The Mares, can defeat the Super Falcons in Thursday’s Group C tie.

Debutants Botswana kicker off their campaign with a 4-2 win against Burundi in Group C on Monday while the Falcons lost 2-1 to South Africa.

A win for Botswana against the Falcons, who were lackluster against South Africa, would guarantee qualification into the quarter-finals.

And looking ahead to the match, Letshwiti called on his compatriots to rally behind the team believing they can achieve the impossible.

“Let me congratulate The Mares for putting an excellent shift at work, defeating Burundi by a convincing 4 – 2 score line at the ongoing Wafcon Tournament here in Morocco,” Letshwiti said in a post published in Botswana FA’s Facebook page.

“The Ladies’ thrilling performances (against Burundi) demonstrated beyond doubt that together we can achieve. I therefore humbly urge the Ladies to continue to show their mettle against the best in Africa. A re kgotetseng!

```````````````````````````“Further, I wish to also thank the people of Botswana back home for their well wishes and their patriotic spirit, rallying behind this exciting team.We are more than excited about your collective support. Let’s rally more and more behind The Mares especially in the second match which is a critical encounter in the tournament with its associated pressure and international focus now squarely on The Mares.

“Nelson Mandela once said; ‘it is impossible until it is done.’

“Let’s go out once more and do it again. It’s possible!”

Meanwhile, in Monday’s second round of games in Group A, hosts Morocco and Senegal qualified for the round of eight.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/2022-wafcon-it-is-possible-to-beat-super-falcons-botswana-fa-president-letshwiti/

President of the Botswana Football Association MacLean Letshwiti says his country’s women’s national team, The Mares, can defeat the Super Falcons in Thursday’s Group C tie.

Debutants Botswana kicker off their campaign with a 4-2 win against Burundi in Group C on Monday while the Falcons lost 2-1 to South Africa.

“Let me congratulate The Mares for putting an excellent shift at work, defeating Burundi by a convincing 4 – 2 score line at the ongoing Wafcon Tournament here in Morocco,” Letshwiti said in a post published in Botswana FA’s Facebook page.

“The Ladies’ thrilling performances (against Burundi) demonstrated beyond doubt that together we can achieve. I therefore humbly urge the Ladies to continue to show their mettle against the best in Africa. A re kgotetseng!

“Further, I wish to also thank the people of Botswana back home for their well wishes and their patriotic spirit, rallying behind this exciting team.We are more than excited about your collective support. Let’s rally more and more behind The Mares especially in the second match which is a critical encounter in the tournament with its associated pressure and international focus now squarely on The Mares.

“Nelson Mandela once said; ‘it is impossible until it is done.’

“Let’s go out once more and do it again. It’s possible!”

Meanwhile, in Monday’s second round of games in Group A, hosts Morocco and Senegal qualified for the round of eight.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/2022-wafcon-it-is-possible-to-beat-super-falcons-botswana-fa-president-letshwiti/

Super Falcons head coach
Randy Waldrum is confident Asisat Oshoala will be able to shake off her injuy in time for his side’s next game against Botswana.

Oshoala sustained an injury in Nigeria’s 2-1 defeat to the Banyana Banyana of South Africa on Monday night.

The striker was hacked down by a South African player early in the game, but played on until the 82nd minute.

The Barcelona Femeni star was replaced by Francisca Ordega.

Waldrum is upbeat his star forward won’t spend too time on the sidelines.

“I think she will be fine, the doctors will check her and I am hopeful for a positive update,”the American gaffer told reporters.

The Super Falcons will take on Botswana on Thursday.
Botswana top the group on goal difference after a thrilling 4-2 win against fellow debutants, Burundi on Monday nigh

Source:https://www.completesports.com/wafcon-2022-waldrum-confident-oshoala-will-be-fit-for-botswana-clash/

Super Falcons head coach Randy Waldrum has backed his team to bounce back from Monday’s defeat to the Banyana Banyana of South Africa, reports Completesports.com.

The holders fell to a 2-1 defeat against Desiree Ellis’ side in the Group C encounter at the 2022 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations.
Both sides cancelled each other out in the first half, but South Africa took the lead through Jermaine Seoposenwe on the hour mark.

Hilda Magaia added the second with a finish two minutes later.
Rasheedat Ajibade reduced the deficit with an incredible finish in the 92nd minute.

“Despite the loss, we are still positive in camp. It is obviously the first game of the tournament so we have to go back and regroup,”Waldrum was quoted by CAFonline.

“We have to increase our urgency in the fighting spirit because we are encouraged by it. We have to play the way we played in the last 10-15 minutes so that we get going.”

n the other Group C game also on Monday, Burundi defeated Botswana 4-2.

Waldrum’s charges will face Botswana in their game on Thursday.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/waldrum-super-falcons-will-bounce-back-from-south-africa-defeat/

South Africa head coach Desiree Ellis has revealed the secret behind Banyana Banyana’s impressive 2-1 win against holders Nigeria in their opening Group C game at the 2022 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations.

Banyana Banyana dominated the game even though the Super Falcons created few chances too.

South Africa took the lead through Jermaine Seoposenwe on the hour mark.

Hilda Magaia added the second with a fine finish two minutes later.

Rasheedat Ajibade reduced the deficit with an incredible finish in the 92nd minute.

“We forced them to play long balls,” Ellis said after the gam

“We knew we can force them to make mistakes at the back which they did, the players deliver our plans.”

Ellis also reflected on the win which put her side in a good position to qualify for next round.

“This is a very big win for us as a team. We needed to get this result because it sets the tone for the rest of the tournament. We had a meeting before we started training to talk about our goals and ambitions. We want to qualify for the World Cup and win the title here,”she added.

We know what happened in 2018, but we have matured over the past four years and there are changes in our team. Jermaine played about four positions today. That is the versatility we have now as a team.”

“This victory is for everyone back home and for all the coaches. This is for everyone connected to women’s football back home.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/south-africa-coach-ellis-how-we-clipped-super-falcons-wings/

Arsenal have officially announced the signing of Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City on a long-term contract.

The London club made the announcement in a statement released on their official website on Monday.

Jesus joined Arsenal in a deal reported to be in the region of £45 million.

He becomes the fourth player to sign for the Gunners ahead of the new season, following the acquisition of compatriot Marquinhos, Matt Turner and Fabio Vieira.
The statement from Arsenal read:”Gabriel Jesus has signed from Manchester City on a long-term contract.

“The 25-year-old forward joins us having established himself as one of the leading strikers in the Premier League in recent seasons. He scored 95 goals in 236 appearances in all competitions during his five seasons in Manchester.

“Gabriel has won the Premier League title four times, the FA Cup, and the League Cup three times. He is a regular in the Brazil national team, making 56 appearances and scoring 19 times since making his full international debut for his country in September 2016. He was a member of the squad which won the Copa America in 2019. During his international career Gabriel has also notably won a gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, and featured at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

“Gabriel developed through the youth setup at Palmeiras, signing a youth contract in 2013, with his prolific goalscoring ensuring he quickly progressed into the first-team squad, making his debut as a 17-year-old in March 2015. During his time with Palmeiras, Gabriel was an integral part of the club’s Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A winning side in 2016, when he was voted as the league’s Bola de Ouro – Player of the Season.

“Gabriel will wear the number 9 shirt and will join up with the Gunners squad for pre-season training soon.

“Everyone at Arsenal welcomes Gabriel to the club.

“The transfer is subject to the completion of regulatory processes.”

Arsenal Technical Director Edu said: “We are delighted that we have secured the transfer of Gabriel. Everyone who knows football well, knows the qualities of Gabriel Jesus.

“Gabriel is a player who we have admired for a long time now. He is 25 years old and an established Brazil international who has consistently demonstrated that he is a player at a very high level. We look forward to seeing him join up with his new teammates ahead of the new season. We all welcome Gabriel to Arsenal.”

And speaking on Jesus’ signing Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said: “I’m very excited. The club has done a tremendous job to recruit a player of this stature. I know Gabriel personally very well, and we all know him well from his time in the Premier League and being really successful here.

“This is a position that’s been on our radar for a long time now and we have managed to get a player that we all wanted, so I’m really happy.”

SOURCE: https://www.completesports.com/official-gabriel-jesus-joins-arsenal-in-45m-transfer/