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18 Jan 2025 20:48

Transfer: Kvaratskhelia joins PSG from Napoli

Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has signed for Paris Saint-Germain from Napoli for an undisclosed fee, PSG confirmed on Friday.

The 23-year-old, who will wear the number seven jersey, becomes the first Georgian player in PSG's history.

The move follows Kvaratskhelia's emotional farewell message to Napoli fans, posted on social media just a day earlier: “It’s hard for me, but it’s time to say goodbye.”

A key figure in Napoli's 2023 Serie A-winning campaign, Kvaratskhelia joined the club in 2022 from Dinamo Batumi and was named Serie A's best player that season. He scored 30 goals and provided 29 assists in 107 appearances across all competitions for the Italian side.

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Sports Hub | Football

17 Jan 2025 16:56

Guardiola’s Career Commitment Cited in Marriage Breakdown

Pep Guardiola’s split from his wife, Cristina Serra, has been attributed to his workaholic nature and Manchester City contract extension, according to a Daily Mail report. Serra relocated to Barcelona in 2019 to manage her family’s fashion business, creating a physical and emotional gap in their relationship.

The couple’s challenges coincided with a tough period for Guardiola professionally, as City has battled inconsistent form and struggles in European competition. Guardiola has previously spoken about the intense pressure and isolation of football management, which may have exacerbated the situation.

Despite personal and professional setbacks, Guardiola remains committed to Manchester City, with his current deal running until 2027.

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Sports Hub | Football

17 Jan 2025 12:35

Villa Beat Everton 1-0 in Moyes’ Return to Goodison Park

Aston Villa dashed David Moyes’ hopes of a triumphant return to Everton with a narrow 1-0 victory.

Ollie Watkins scored the game’s only goal early in the second half, moving Villa to within striking distance of the top four. Everton struggled to create chances, their attacking woes continuing as they remain perilously close to the relegation zone.

Villa’s first clean sheet in 12 away games boosted their hopes for European qualification, while Moyes faces a daunting task to rejuvenate his struggling team.

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Sports Hub | Football

16 Jan 2025 20:01

Chalobah Recalled by Chelsea Amid Defensive Injuries

Chelsea have brought back Trevoh Chalobah from Crystal Palace after injuries to defenders Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana left the squad short. Chalobah, who had been performing well at Palace, offers versatility as a centre-back or right-back.

With Chelsea’s defensive struggles and a series of poor results in the Premier League, manager Enzo Maresca is looking to Chalobah to help shore up the defense.

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Sports Hub | Football

14 Jan 2025 20:38

Inigo Martinez Out for Four Weeks with Hamstring Injury

Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez will be sidelined for four weeks due to a hamstring injury sustained in the 5-2 Spanish Super Cup win over Real Madrid. The 33-year-old underwent tests on Tuesday, confirming a right hamstring injury.

Martinez's absence means that Ronald Araujo will likely take his place in central defense. Martinez will miss key upcoming matches, including the final two Champions League group games against Benfica and Atalanta.

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Sports Hub | Football

14 Jan 2025 16:25

Laporta Defends Olmo Registration Amidst Criticism

Barcelona president Joan Laporta fiercely defended his handling of Dani Olmo's registration issue and lashed out at those attacking the club, calling it a coordinated attempt to destabilize them.

Olmo and Pau Victor missed two matches after La Liga and the RFEF refused to grant them licenses. Laporta stated that Barcelona had followed the rules and blamed the delay on La Liga’s unexpected request for additional documentation regarding the sale of VIP seats.

He emphasized that despite these challenges, the club's determination never wavered, leading to their success in winning the Spanish Super Cup.

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Sports Hub | Football

13 Jan 2025 21:22

FA Cup Fourth Round Draw: Leicester to Visit Old Trafford

Manchester United will take on Leicester in the FA Cup fourth round, with former United star Ruud van Nistelrooy returning to Old Trafford as Leicester’s manager.

Liverpool faces a trip to Plymouth, Chelsea meets Brighton, and Aston Villa hosts Tottenham in a marquee matchup. Manchester City awaits the result of Leyton Orient vs. Derby.

Complete Fixtures:

Manchester United v Leicester
Leeds v Millwall/Dagenham
Brighton v Chelsea
Plymouth v Liverpool
Aston Villa v Tottenham
Everton v Bournemouth
Southampton/Swansea v Burnley
Blackburn v Wolves
Mansfield/Wigan v Fulham
Exeter v Nottingham Forest
Coventry v Ipswich
Birmingham v Newcastle
Stoke v Cardiff
Doncaster v Crystal Palace
Preston/Charlton v Wycombe
Leyton Orient/Derby v Manchester City

Matches will take place from February 7–10.

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Sports Hub | Football

13 Jan 2025 17:12

Barcelona Beat Madrid 5-2 in Super Cup Classic

Barcelona claimed a dominant 5-2 victory over Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final, lifting the trophy under Hansi Flick's management.

Kylian Mbappé gave Madrid an early lead, but Barcelona roared back with Lamine Yamal’s equalizer and further goals from Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha (two), and Alejandro Balde.

Wojciech Szczesny’s red card reduced Barcelona to 10 men, allowing Madrid's Rodrygo to score from a free-kick, but it was too late to challenge Barcelona’s dominance.

This win extends Barcelona’s record to 15 Spanish Super Cup titles, highlighting their supremacy in Clasico clashes this season.

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Sports Hub | Football

13 Jan 2025 13:03

🌝 Yamal Left Match for Toilet Break – Gundogan Shares Unusual Story

Ilkay Gundogan recalled an unusual incident involving Lamine Yamal during Barcelona's match against Porto last season. Speaking on The Ranveer Show, Gundogan shared that the teenage star left the field mid-match to use the toilet.

"We were leading 1-0, and everything was going well. Around the 60th minute, the game changed dramatically, and it felt like Porto had an extra player," Gundogan said.

The confusion deepened when Gundogan discovered the reason: "Lamine left to use the bathroom, and we were playing with 10 men! The technical staff hesitated to replace him, waiting for his return."

Frustrated, Gundogan urged the staff to make a substitution, but after waiting too long, they were forced to replace Yamal.

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Sports Hub | Football

11 Jan 2025 15:12

Guardiola Talks FA Cup and Salford’s Ambitious Owners

Pep Guardiola spoke ahead of Manchester City’s FA Cup match against Salford City, a club backed by Manchester United’s Class of 92. Salford has made impressive progress through the ranks, thanks to the guidance of footballing legends like Gary Neville, David Beckham, and Ryan Giggs.

Guardiola praised the former players for making wise decisions and backing their ambitions, knowing that their expertise could help elevate Salford in the English Football League.

On a personal note, Guardiola shared his connection to Salford, where he has lived for the past eight years. City have struggled with injuries, but recent victories against Leicester and West Ham signal a positive shift, with key players like Ederson and Oscar Bobb returning to training. However, Rodri, Stones, and Dias are still out.

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Sports Hub | Football

11 Jan 2025 10:17

Barcelona Reach Spanish Super Cup Final

Barcelona triumphed over Athletic Club to secure a spot in the Spanish Super Cup final, with goals from Gavi and Lamine Yamal. Gavi opened the scoring in the 17th minute, finishing off a pass from Alejandro Balde. Yamal doubled the lead in the second half with a composed finish past Unai Simon.

Athletic Club's Inaki Williams had a goal ruled out for offside in the final minute. Barcelona will now face the winner of the Real Madrid vs Mallorca match in Sunday’s final.

Barcelona also received provisional permission from the Spanish sports council (CSD) to register new signings Dani Olmo and Pau Victor, although they were not eligible to play in this semi-final.

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Sports Hub | Football

10 Jan 2025 20:16

⚡️ Deschamps' Departure and Zidane's Likely Successor

Didier Deschamps has announced he will step down as France head coach after the 2026 World Cup. Despite his success, many believe the right time to leave was after Euro 2024, with key players retiring and the squad undergoing changes. His decision to leave before the World Cup has raised concerns about team morale.

Zinedine Zidane is the frontrunner to replace Deschamps. With his deep connection to the French team and his bond with Mbappé, Zidane is seen as the ideal candidate. Thierry Henry, while a future prospect, is not the immediate choice.

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Sports Hub | Football

10 Jan 2025 09:18

Neymar Confirms 2026 World Cup Will Be His Last

Neymar has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will be his final tournament, expressing confidence that Brazil will qualify for the finals in North America. Speaking in an interview with CNN, the 32-year-old attacker admitted that this would be his "last shot" at the World Cup and pledged to give his all to secure a place in the squad.

“I know this will be my last World Cup, my last chance, and I will do everything I can to play in it,” Neymar said. Although he hasn’t played for Brazil in over a year, Neymar remains optimistic about the team's chances in qualifying, with Brazil currently in fifth place in the South American group, five points clear of seventh.

Neymar also hinted at a potential reunion with former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at U.S. club Inter Miami, saying, “Playing again with Messi and Suarez would be incredible.”

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Sports Hub | Football

09 Jan 2025 17:59

Dani Olmo and Pau Victor Cleared to Play for Barcelona by Spanish Sports Council

Dani Olmo and Pau Victor have been granted permission to play for Barcelona after the Spanish Sports Council (CSD) approved a temporary measure on Wednesday.

The financially struggling club was unable to register the two players before the deadline at the end of last year. Olmo and Victor, who were given temporary licenses when they joined in the summer, are now eligible to feature for the Catalan side.

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Sports Hub | Football

09 Jan 2025 13:44

🚩Ancelotti Calls Vinicius Red Card Ban Unfair

Carlo Ancelotti has criticized Vinicius Junior’s two-match ban following his red card in Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Valencia. The Brazilian winger was sent off for pushing Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski in the neck. Ancelotti described the suspension as “unfair” and pointed out the insults Vinicius endured during the match, highlighting the ongoing racial abuse the player faces.

“Both he and I hear what happens in the stadiums... the ban is not right,” Ancelotti said. Vinicius will miss upcoming La Liga games against Las Palmas and Real Valladolid but can play in the Spanish Super Cup.

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Sports Hub | Football

18 Jan 2025 15:59

Erling Haaland Extends Man City Stay with 10-Year Deal

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has signed a new contract extending his stay at the Etihad until 2034. The deal, described as historic, reflects the 24-year-old’s commitment to the club he joined in 2022.

Pep Guardiola praised Haaland’s decision, saying:

This type of contract shows his confidence in the club’s future. He loves the Premier League, the people here, and the environment at City.

His competitive spirit ensures he’ll keep striving for success.

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17 Jan 2025 14:59

Arsenal’s Raya Believes Title Race is Far from Over

Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya is optimistic that his side can close the gap on Liverpool in the Premier League title race. Speaking after the Gunners’ 2-1 win over Tottenham, Raya said, “In football, everything can happen,” as Arsenal moved within four points of the top.

The derby victory ended a frustrating streak of three winless games, with goals from Dominic Solanke (own goal) and Leandro Trossard. Despite injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka, Arsenal’s collective effort has kept their title hopes alive.

Arsenal will host Aston Villa next, looking to avenge last season’s 2-0 defeat at the Emirates.

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Sports Hub | Football

17 Jan 2025 10:06

Arsenal Defeat Spurs 2-1 to Reignite Title Push

In an intense north London derby, Arsenal fought back from an early deficit to beat Tottenham 2-1. Tottenham took the lead through Son Heung-min’s 25th-minute goal, but an own goal by Dominic Solanke and Leandro Trossard’s strike just before halftime turned the game in Arsenal’s favor.

This victory moved the Gunners to within four points of leaders Liverpool, who drew 1-1 with Nottingham Forest. Arsenal’s comeback has reignited their push for the Premier League title.

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Sports Hub | Football

16 Jan 2025 17:47

Ancelotti Demands Response After Clasico Loss

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has called for a swift response from his team following their heavy 5-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. Speaking ahead of Thursday's Copa del Rey clash with Celta Vigo, Ancelotti emphasized the importance of bouncing back from the loss.

He acknowledged the team's defensive mistakes and lack of commitment but remains confident in their ability to recover. "We need to move forward, we're in a good position in all competitions," he said.

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Sports Hub | Football

14 Jan 2025 18:18

Guardiola: City Are Regaining Form

Pep Guardiola praised his team for three consecutive victories but emphasized the importance of their upcoming match against Brentford.

City comfortably defeated Leicester, West Ham, and Salford, but Guardiola noted that the true challenges lie ahead. He described Brentford as a strong team with an excellent home record.

The manager also declined to comment on rumors about the transfer of Abdukodir Khusanov or the future of Kyle Walker, who hasn’t played since December.

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Sports Hub | Football

14 Jan 2025 14:10

Ronaldo to Extend Al Nassr Contract, Remain Football's Top Earner

Cristiano Ronaldo is poised to extend his contract with Al Nassr, keeping him as the world's highest-paid footballer with a €200 million deal. This includes €3.8 million per week and €60 million from image rights.

Ronaldo has netted 75 goals in 84 games for Al Nassr, and his new contract will take him closer to his 1,000 career goals target. The deal, set to run until June 2026, will coincide with the 2026 World Cup, which could be his last.

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Sports Hub | Football

13 Jan 2025 19:12

Super Eagles’ New Coach Eric Chelle to Be Unveiled Monday

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will unveil Eric Chelle as the new Super Eagles coach on Monday at 11 a.m. at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.

Chelle, a Franco-Malian coach, was announced as the Head Coach last week, and NFF President Ibrahim Gusau has called for nationwide support despite skepticism about the appointment. Gusau assured that the NFF would provide all necessary resources to help Chelle succeed.

Chelle’s immediate task will be leading the Super Eagles B squad in the African Nations Championship next month. Later, he will focus on improving Nigeria’s position in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Chelle’s coaching experience includes leading Mali to the 2023 AFCON quarter-finals and managing clubs such as FC Martigues and MC Oran. As a player, he earned five caps for Mali.

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Sports Hub | Football

13 Jan 2025 15:15

Manchester United Edge Arsenal in FA Cup Penalty Drama

Manchester United defeated Arsenal 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the FA Cup third round at the Emirates.

United played an hour with 10 men but held firm, thanks to Altay Bayindir, who saved Kai Havertz’s decisive penalty in the shootout. Earlier in the game, Bayindir also stopped Martin Odegaard’s spot-kick, ensuring the holders advanced to the fourth round.

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Sports Hub | Football

11 Jan 2025 18:14

Djokovic Claims He Was 'Poisoned' Before Australian Open Deportation

Novak Djokovic has revealed that he believes he was "poisoned" with lead and mercury while being held in a Melbourne detention hotel in 2022, just before his deportation on the eve of the Australian Open. The Serbian tennis star, whose visa was cancelled over his refusal to get vaccinated against COVID-19, said the food provided in the hotel led to high levels of heavy metals in his blood. Djokovic did not provide direct evidence linking the food to the poisoning but stood by his claims.

Despite the controversy surrounding his treatment in Australia, Djokovic insists he holds no grudge against the Australian people and expressed gratitude for his visa reinstatement. He also noted that many Australians apologized to him for the government's actions. Djokovic returned to Melbourne a year later and clinched the Australian Open title.

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Sports Hub | Football

11 Jan 2025 12:21

❗️ Premier League Clubs Targeting Key Players

Manchester United and Liverpool are both eyeing Khvitcha Kvaratskhelia from Napoli, with the 23-year-old forward attracting interest from top clubs. If Napoli allows him to leave this month, both English giants could make their move. (L'Equipe, Athletic)

Meanwhile, West Ham are showing interest in Marcus Rashford and could pursue a loan move for the Manchester United forward. Arsenal and Serie A's AC Milan are also monitoring his situation. (Talksport, Gianluca Di Marzio)

Manchester City are focused on signing Vitor Reis, a promising Brazilian defender, from Palmeiras. (Athletic)

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Sports Hub | Football

10 Jan 2025 21:51

Amorim Wants to Keep Mainoo at Man Utd, but No Guarantees on Future

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has expressed his desire to keep 19-year-old Kobbie Mainoo at the club but refrained from offering any guarantees about the midfielder's future.

Mainoo, who has been linked with a move to Chelsea, is currently in a contract stand-off with United, who are focused on extending the deals of Harry Maguire and Amad Diallo. Although Mainoo's contract still has two-and-a-half years remaining, the club faces financial constraints, and selling homegrown players could offer greater flexibility for future signings under the Premier League's financial rules.

"We always want to keep the best players," said Amorim, "but we know the position the club is in. We will see." While there are concerns from United officials about the potential backlash from fans if Mainoo is sold, Amorim emphasized his satisfaction with the player's progress, saying, "I’m really happy with Kobbie. He is improving."

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Sports Hub | Football

10 Jan 2025 18:01

Oscar Bobb Back in Training After Five-Month Injury Layoff

Oscar Bobb of Manchester City is back in training after recovering from a fractured leg that kept him out for five months. The Norwegian midfielder, who was injured in training ahead of the Premier League season, has not played since featuring in the Community Shield in August.

Although Bobb won’t be available for Saturday’s FA Cup clash against Salford City, manager Pep Guardiola confirmed that he is back on the training pitch, with his bone injury fully healed.

"It's good news he's back," Guardiola said. "It’s not a muscle injury, it was a bone, and it’s already fixed."

Guardiola also updated on other injuries, revealing that Ruben Dias is improving but not yet fit, while John Stones remains unavailable. Ederson, who has been out since mid-December, is now fully recovered.

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Sports Hub | Football

09 Jan 2025 20:11

West Ham Appoint Graham Potter as New Manager Following Lopetegui’s Departure

West Ham United have appointed Graham Potter as their new manager after Julen Lopetegui’s exit earlier this week. The 49-year-old former Brighton and Chelsea boss has agreed to a two-and-a-half-year deal with the club. Potter inherits a team currently 14th in the Premier League, with just six league wins this season, and seven points clear of the relegation zone.

"I’m excited to be here. I believe this is the right fit for me and for the club," Potter said, highlighting his positive conversations with West Ham’s leadership. "We share the same values, focused on hard work and high energy to build a foundation for success."

Potter’s managerial career spans successful spells at Brighton, where he guided the team to a ninth-place finish in 2022, and a stint at Chelsea that ended in April 2023. He will now focus on guiding West Ham through the FA Cup and Premier League challenges ahead.

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Sports Hub | Football

09 Jan 2025 15:56

West Ham Part Ways with Julen Lopetegui, Graham Potter Set to Take Over

West Ham have parted ways with manager Julen Lopetegui after just 22 games in charge. The Spaniard’s tenure saw the club sit 14th in the Premier League, with six wins in 20 matches. A 4-1 loss to Manchester City last Saturday was the final straw for the board.

In a statement, West Ham thanked Lopetegui and his staff for their efforts but noted the team’s performance had not met the club’s ambitions. Former Chelsea manager Graham Potter is expected to replace Lopetegui.

West Ham, who spent heavily during the summer, will now look to regroup as they prepare for their upcoming FA Cup tie against Aston Villa.

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Sports Hub | Football

08 Jan 2025 20:58

Arteta Blames Carabao Cup Ball for Arsenal's Missed Chances Against Newcastle

Mikel Arteta has suggested that the Carabao Cup match ball played a part in Arsenal's 2-0 loss to Newcastle. The Gunners missed numerous chances, with 20 shots going off target, and Arteta believes the ball’s unique characteristics contributed to their struggles.

“The ball flies differently, and the grip is not the same as the Premier League ball,” Arteta said after the game. Despite Arsenal's dominance in possession, they couldn’t make the most of their opportunities. The first leg defeat means Arsenal now have a tough task ahead of the second leg in February.

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