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Written by Oluwaseun Oyediji
Atlanta 1996 Olympic winning coach, Johannes Bonfrere says grooming of young talents will go a long way in taking Nigeria football back to its pride of place in global soccer.
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Popularly known as "Bonfrere Jo", the former coach of Nigeria's senior national team during a press conference in Lagos, Nigeria, organised to intimate journalists on Qnet Youth Football Training Camp opined that with the talents discovered and nurtured at the Youth Football Training Camp, Nigeria have the possibility of building up a new national team.
"Most of the players at the clinic are boys between 16 to 17 years old with football skills but still have to improve their skills through good coaching and training. They need lessons from coaches otherwise Manchester City will never take them." Bonfrere Jo told pressmen.
"There is a chance for them because they have shown us that they have the qualities otherwise another coach will not select them.
"With the selected 26 players, we have the possibility to build up a new national team if we do it well."
26 players were selected from six South West states for the football clinic sponsored by the E-commerce firm, QNET tagged "QNET Coaching Clinic".
Written by Oluwaseun Oyediji
The Young Ternaga Lions of Senegal rounded up an impressive tournament with a 2-0 win over The Gambia to emerge as 2023 U-20 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) winners on Saturday at the Cairo International Stadium, Egypt.
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Both sides were the only sides without defeats heading into the final match with Senegal being the better team in terms of attack.
The two teams played five games without conceding but took just six minutes for The Gambia to concede its first goal of the tournament.
Amidou Diop's cross was headed into the back of the net by Souleymane Faye.
Senegal took the lead into the halftime break before doubling up in the second half.
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In the 56th minute, Faye turned provider for Mamadou Camara to make it 2-0.
The win ensured Senegal's fourth continental title in football since 2022.
The senior national team clinched the AFCON for the first time last year in Cameroon.
The beach soccer team took the Beach Soccer AFCON title and qualified for the Beach Soccer World Cup.
Recently, the home-based team won the CAF Championship of African Nations (CHAN) in Algeria.
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Nigeria's U-20 side won the bronze medal on Friday with a 4-0 bashing of Tunisia.
Read Also - Bettitude Women's Footballer Of 2022
Nigeria in the same group as Senegal finished second in Group A and edged Uganda 1-0 in the quarter-final.
The Gambia ended the Flying Eagles' journey to win its eighth title after a 1-0 loss in the semi-final.
Ladan Bosso's side will smile home with a podium finish and a medal ahead of this year's FIFA U-20 World Cup in Indonesia.
The semi-finalists at the U-20 AFCON automatically qualified for the World Cup.
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Written By Jacobs Dunga
There was tragedy in the world of football on the weekend as another player died moments after falling on the pitch.
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An Ivorian footballer identified as Sylla Moustapha has sadly passed away hours after he fell on the field of play.
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The Racing Club of Abidjan defender was said to have slumped in the 70th minute without contact.
He was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead hours after the incident happened.
The 21 year old as per the president of the club Cisse Souleymane suffered a heart attack which eventually cost him his life. The match was abandoned immediately after the incident but it did little to save the life of Sylla.
“Death!! Our defender Sylla Moustapha died this evening after a discomfort during our game against Sol FC. Our management send sincere condolences to the biological family. Rest In peace Moustapha, rest In peace Lion.” Reads the statement on the club official website.
Sylla’s last game was his seventh of the current campaign since joining the club from Djoliba AC.
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Kylian Mbappe has become the official top scorer of Ligue 1 side PSG after clinching his 201st goal for the club over the weekend.
The 24 year old got the fourth goal of a 4-2 victory over Nantes on Saturday to surpass the previous record of 200.
READ ALSO: How Lu-La Can Propel Inter Milan To The Serie A Title
Edinson Cavani had held the record before but Mbappe has now leapfrogged the Uruguayan to become the club’s outright top scorer.
The French international reached the figure in just 247 games colored to Cavani who needed 301 games to amass his total.
The World Cup golden boot winner was close to joining Real Madrid last summer before making a u-turn to sign a two year extension with the French champions.
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Written By Uche Dozie
Premier League strugglers Southampton have confirmed the signing of Ghana’s 2022 World Cup midfielder Kamaldeen Sulemana from French club Rennes.
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He moves the Saint Mary's on a four and half year deal for around €25 million, a club record transfer fee.
https://twitter.com/SouthamptonFC/status/1620577868722864129?t=UlP6gMKW4VZG9Jirr2UvBw&s=19According to the Athletic, Southampton will pay further €3m in add-ons providing certain clauses are met.
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The 20-year-old ultimately chose Southampton ahead of Everton, who made a verbal offer for him on Sunday, with the club tracking the forward since his time FC Nordsjaelland.
He has scored five goals after thirty-three matches after struggling for regular time this season.
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Belgian topflight club, Anderlecht have signed striker Islam Slimani from French Ligue 1 side, Brest on loan till the end of the season with the option for a further year.
Written By Uche Dozie
Cameroonian Karl Toko-Ekambi have moved to Rennes following the completion of the deali from Lyon on loan until the end of the season.
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The transfer of the 30-year-old has a five months maturity date without an option to buy according to a statement by Rennes.
GFN reports that Rennes will pay a loan fee of €1.5m, with potential bonuses adding €1m to that figure, and will take on the entirety of his wages during that time.
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Toko who fell behind the pecking order with Lyon this season scored 4 goals and assisted 2 in 19 Ligue 1 appearances. He has recorded 32 goals and 15 assists across 92 Ligue 1 games since joining Lyon in 2020.
Maurice, the Technical Director of Stade Rennais FC states the need for Ekambi who comes in as a result of injury of Martins.
“We were looking for an additional striker following Martin's injury in particular, but it's also an opportunity to densify our line of attack given the upcoming deadlines. He was my first choice because he is a boy I know very well, with the qualities we were looking for. I am convinced that he will adapt very quickly, he knows several players from the locker room, I thank Hamari and the others for having worked for the club.
In addition, he now has some experience at the top level. He is versatile, he can move to different positions in the attack: the axis, alone, in pairs, or on one side. He is above all a player who, per season, scores between ten and fifteen goals and that is also what we were looking for. His maturity is also an added value, in the game but also in the locker room. It is very important for our young people. He has an exemplary state of mind that matches our group and that's something I care about a lot."
Ekambi thanks Rennes for trusting him and looks forward to a fruit time at the club.
“Thank you to Stade Rennais FC for trusting me. I made this choice because I know the club, in particular thanks to Florian Maurice with whom I had the chance to work at Olympique Lyonnais. I also know a lot of players. Hamari Troaré is like my brother, we met at Paris FC, Martin Terrier, I played with him at OL, Baptiste Santamaria and Flavien Tait at SCO d'Angers and Christopher Wooh in selection. We feel a lot of complicity between the Rennes players on the pitch. Everyone plays for each other and I'm very proud to be part of this project.
I am attracted by the goal but above all by the collective and that is the strength of Stade Rennais FC I liked the coach's speech. I do not know him personally but the quality of his work is recognized. Everything was in place to come to Stade Rennais FC, I am very happy to join his team. »
Written By Uche Dozie
Cameroon's forward Karl Toko Ekambi is at the verge of joining Stade Rennais on six-month loan without an option to buy for the rest of the season according to reports from French outlets.
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He is said to be ready to agreed with Rennais amidst other admirers who also want him to join their club.
Rennais Coach, Bruno Genesio has shown keen interest in the player who is confident will join them when he spoke to the press.
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The clubs needs a forward with Martin Terrier and Arnaud Kalimuendo on the sidelines due to injury.
CC:"I know that he has had a difficult time in Lyon , I know the context and I tell myself that in a more reassuring context and where he will be more confident, we can revive him. Yes, yes, (the two men spoke to each other). There is good progress, after that we are not alone”, explained Genesio.
Ekambi has been a subject of transfer this January transfer window after his stay in Lyon became unfriendly with the fans subjecting him to some abusive chants.
The Player has been reported to have agreed personal terms with Stade Rennais and Saudi Arabia Pro League club, Al Shabab in the previous days.
However, LA Galaxy of the USA and Spanish side, Celta Vigo are the recent suitors for the signing of the 30-year-old.
The player looks sure to leave the French giants this January, but whether it is a move to another French club or Spain is what is yet to be ascertained.
He has scored 30 goals for Olympique Lyon and given13 assists after 84 matches.
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Another Lyon player, Malo Gusto wants a move away from the French Ligue 1 club, Lyon after keen interest for his services from England.
Gusto is top the list of players English Premier League club, Chelsea want to boost their squad this transfer window.
Read Also: Qatar 2022 Team Preview: The Carthage Eagles
A bid of € 20 million is said to have been tabled by Chelsea earlier, but has been rejected by Lyonnaise which Chelsea looking to table an improved bid in the days to come.
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Written By Uche Dozie
English Premier League side, West Ham United have tabled the sum of £20m and £5m in add-ons for FC Lorient’s Terem Moffi according to Sky Sport on Monday.
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The Nigeria striker have been in great form scoring twelve goals in eighteen matches, three goals shy of Kylian Mbappe of PSG in the French Ligue 1.
The 23-year-old has caught the eye of clubs in Europe prior to the the opening of the January transfer window, but the Hammers have been at the forefront to bring in the player to the premiership.
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His goal contribution saw the French Club go second at some point in the league and now 7th on the log, a quiet commendable position for a team that was in the French Ligue 2 two seasons.
According to FootMercato, the player prefers to stay in Ligue 1 on the side of Nice, but OGC Nice still haven't made a satisfactory offer to Lorient.
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West Ham are also eyeing a deal for Troyes' striker, Mama Baldé who has been in blistering form since he joined from Dijon.
The 27year-old Guinea Bissao player has eight goals and three assist to his account in seventeen matches this season.
Read Also: Qatar 2022 Team Preview: The Carthage Eagles
Baldé who is valued at €15 million has a contract with Troyes' till 2025 and may be another option for the Hammers who are dire need of a striker if they don't get their target man, Terem Moffi.
Written by Oluwaseun Oyediji
West Africa Zone B (WAFU-B) Champions, Flying Eagles will start its 2023 U-20 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign against Senegal.
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Nigeria were on Friday drawn in Group A alongside host, Egypt, Senegal, and Mozambique.
Umar Salis who recently got an invitation from coach Ladan Bosso ahead of January camp for the team is confident that Nigeria can win the U-20 AFCON title.
"My view about the group is Group A is a tough group with big countries like Egypt, Senegal, and Mozambique are very good sides but with the quality of players we have in Flying Eagles, I am sure that Nigeria are going to qualify for the World Cup by the grace of God. We are coming back with the trophy Insha Allah." Salis told www.bettitide.com/blog.
The Abj Football Club of Bauchi player is expecting to join other Flying Eagles players in camp on Monday, January 9, 2023, at Serob Legacy Hotel, Abuja, in preparation for the final phase before coach Ladan Bosso releases his final squad list for the U-20 AFCON.
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Salis said: "I'm really excited about the invitation to the Flying Eagles camp. I came back from training to see missed calls from my boss. At that moment, I checked my WhatsApp. He already forwarded the invitation letter from NFF to me. At the same place, I have my thanks to Almighty Allah who did this to me."
The next goal for Salis is to fight for a shirt in a bid to make the final squad for Egypt 2023 U-20 AFCON.
He added: "My personal goal ahead of my first appearance in Flying Eagles camp is to go and fight for a place in the squad to make a list of players to represent Nigeria in Egypt."
The Flying Eagles have now embarked on a two-week recess and are expected to resume camp in the first week of January for the final phase of preparations ahead of the Final Tournament of the Africa U20 in Egypt.
The TotalEnergies U20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2023 will be played between 19 February and 11 March 2023.
Meanwhile…
2023 U-20 AFCON draw held in Cairo on Friday evening also placed Uganda, Central African Republic, South Sudan, and Congo in Group B, while The Gambia, Tunisia, Benin Republic, and Zambia will slot it out in Group C.
Read Also - Qatar 2022 Team Preview: Atlas Lions
It is the first time that the Africa U20 Cup of Nations will witness 12 teams, with the four top teams in Egypt qualifying to represent Africa at the FIFA U20 World Cup finals already slated for 20th May – 11th June in Indonesia.
From the result of the draw, the Flying Eagles, who qualified as champions of the WAFU B zone, will play their first match of the tournament against Senegal, who emerged from the WAFU A zone.
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Written By Jacobs Dunga
From Senegal’s victory to Ecuador’s valuable draw against the Netherlands to England’s unconvincing outing against the United States.
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Reigning African champions, Senegal secured the continent’s first three points at the ongoing World Cup by brushing aside hosts Qatar by three goals to one.
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The African side had narrowly lost their opening game to the Netherlands but made sure they secured the much needed points going into their last group game against Ecuador.
Goals from Boulaye Dia, Famara Diedhiou and Bamba Dieng were enough for the Aliou Cisse led side to emerge victorious against Felix Sanchez’ side.
In the other group game, Ecuador continued their impressive run with a well deserved 1-1 draw against Louis Van Gaal’s Oranje side with Enner Valencia getting the all important equalizer.
Cody Gakpo had given Netherlands and early lead but the Ecuadorian team despite the early setback kept fighting and showed relentless effort to come back into the game.
Estupinan thought he had levelled for Ecuador in the fourth minute of first half added time only for VAR to rule otherwise.
It was however not long before Enner Valencia drew Ecuador level with just four minutes of the restart played.
Both teams are now joint top of their group with four points apiece and the same number of goals scored and conceded.
England were held to a goalless draw by the United States in a game that was largely dominated by the Americans.
Gareth Southgate’s men barely threatened all game as both sides settled for a point apiece.
The Three Lions sit top of the group with four points while the United States have two points from as many games and needing a win against Iran to qualify.
Meanwhile…
Qatar with their loss to Senegal became the host nation with the worst start in the history of the World Cup after losing both of their games.
They also joined South Africa as the only host nations to have been eliminated in the first round.
READ ALSO: Qatar 2022 World Cup Preview: A Selecao Navegadores
Senegal by virtue of their 3-1 win over Qatar recorded their first victory with more than a goal margin in the World Cup.
The Netherlands’ two shots attempted against Ecuador is the least by any European nation in any game of the group stages in World Cup history.
Cody Gakpo joins Memphis Depay (2014) as the Dutch players to score in their first two appearances in the World Cup.
Ecuador have now kept a clean sheet in each of their last seven matches in all competitions but saw that come to an end against the Netherlands.
Enner Valencia became the fourth player after Paolo Rossi, Eusebio and Oleg Salenko to score six consecutive goals for their country in the World Cup.
Jurrien Timber has joined Patrick Kluivert as the only Dutch players to have appeared in two different major international tournaments before their 22nd birthday.
England are now the nation with the most goalless draws in the history of the World Cup with twelve to their name.
This was the United States’ first clean sheet in the World Cup since beating England in 1950.
England are now winless in three games against the United States in the World Cup with only Brazil being the side they’ve faced more (4) without winning.
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Written by Oluwaseun Oyediji
The Atlas Lions of Morocco will be making its sixth appearance at the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup with its second back-to-back appearance after achieving a similar feat in 1994 (United States of America) and 1998 (France).
Previous Appearance
Morocco had played five previous World Cups in 1970 (Mexico), 1986 (Mexico), 1994 (United States of America), 1998 (France), and 2018 (Russia).
Out of its previous five appearances, the team only made it out of the group stage once in 1986.
Morocco in 1986 played out a 0-0 draws with Poland and ten-man England, before defeating Portugal 3-1 courtesy of Abderrazak Khairi's brace and a goal from Abdelkrim Merry before Diamantino's consolation goal for Portugal.
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SAITAMA, JAPAN - AUGUST 04: Diana Taurasi #12 of Team United States moves the ball up court against Cayla George #15 of Team Australia during the first half of a Women's Basketball Quarterfinals game on day twelve of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Saitama Super Arena on August 04, 2021 in Saitama, Japan. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) 03-08-2021 Durant en el España - USA. La selección española masculina de baloncesto ha quedado eliminada en cuartos de final de los Juegos Olímpicos de Tokio tras sucumbir este martes frente a Estados Unidos en el Saitama Super Arena (81-95) pese a un excepcional Ricky Rubio (38 puntos). DEPORTES FIBA Tokyo 2020 Olympics - Basketball - Women - Group B - United States v Japan - Saitama Super Arena, Saitama, Japan - July 30, 2021. A'Ja Wilson of the United States in action with Monica Okoye of Japan REUTERS/Brian Snyder
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Written By Uche Dozie
Felix Auger-Aliassime completed his flawless week in Málaga, beating Alex De Minaur 6-3, 6-4 to give Canada a first ever Davis Cup title.
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Canada had reached their second Davis Cup final and were hoping for their first title win when they face Australia in the final.
Written By Uche Dozie
Seven years after his last ATP Finals title, the Serbian won a record-tying sixth by defeating Casper Rudd.
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Novak Djokovic has ended the tennis season in a remarkable way after his triumph at the Nitto ATP finals, becoming the oldest winner at 35 years and 5 months old.
The former world number won his sixth ATP finals title following his 7-5, 6-3 win in 1 hour and 33 minutes against Casper Rudd at Sunday night finals.
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He became the first player ever to win the ATP Finals in three different decades—the 2000s, 2010s and 2020s.
Written By Uche Dozie
Formula one racing team, Haas confirms that Mick Schumacher will leave the team at the end of the season.
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United States of America based team, Haas F1 team has announced that one of their drivers, Mick Schumacher will not continue with them after the end of the season.
In a statement, the team said "Haas F1 Team and Mick Schumacher will part ways at the conclusion of the 2022 FIA Formula 1 World Championship"
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“I would like to thank Mick Schumacher for his contribution to the team over the past couple of years,” said Steiner in a statement issued by Haas on Thursday morning.
“Mick’s pedigree in the junior categories was well known and he has continued to grow and develop as a driver in his time with Haas F1 Team – culminating in his first F1 points-scoring successes earlier this season."While choosing to go in separate directions for the future the entire team wishes Mick well for the next steps in his career path and beyond.”
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Nico Hulkenberg will replace Schumacher who was announced to be leaving at the end of the season on Thursday morning.
Written By Uche Dozie
Nadal has now lost four straight singles matches for the first time since the Stone Age.
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Felix Auger-Aliassime defeated Rafael Nadal for the first time at the ATP Finals. 6-3, 6-4 to drop Nadal to 0-2 in group play.
This ended the dream of the 36-year-old winning the title for the first time following two consecutive loses.
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"I mean, I don't think I forget how to play tennis, how to be strong enough mentally," said Nadal.
"I just need to recover all these positive feelings and all this confidence and all this strong mentality that I need to be at the level that I want to be.I'm
"I don't know if I am going to reach that level again. But what I don't have any doubt [about], is that I'm going to die for it."
Nadal had lost to Taylor Fritz for the second time in three meetings this year 7-6 6-1 in his match of the tournament.
And following the Casper Rudd's first set win over Taylor Fritz in match that is on going (as at the time of this report) sealed Nadal's elimination.
It remains to be seen whether Nadal will play his final group match against Ruud following his elimination.
Meanwhile…
With Nadal been eliminated from the ATP finals, Spanish young star, Carlos Alcaraz will end the year as world number one.
His number one status was confirmed following the 21 grand slam winner failing to reach the finals of the ATP finals which was the position he needed to get to be top of his countryman.
Read Also: Can Mercedes Get Back Into The Mix At Their Favourable Barcelona Circuit?
But by virtue of Casper Ruud winning a set against Taylor Fritz, Nadal cannot progress from the Green Group after losing both his matches.
Alcaraz started the year ranked at No. 32, but has soared to the top on the back of five titles.
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Written By Uche Dozie
Novak Djokovic has been cleared to play at the 2023 Australian Open, with his three-year ban from the country set to be overturned.
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Novak Djokovic has been allowed to play the 2023 Australian Open after his visa ban was overturned by the federal government in Australia.
He was deported just before the 2022 edition started and saw his visa cancelled “in the public interest”.
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However, the Sydney Morning Herald state sources close to Immigration Minister Andrew Giles have said Djokovic will be granted a visa, overturning his automatic three-year ban.
Australian Open director Craig Tiley had said earlier on Tuesday that he was still awaiting a decision but was not expecting “preferential treatment” for the player.
“There’s a normal visa application process that everyone is going through right now, and everyone will go through the right timing,” Tiley told AAP.
“I don’t think there should be any preferential treatment for anyone. But I fully expect to have an answer for everyone by the time that they need to book their flights and come in, including Novak.
“That’s entirely up to the Australian government. I know Novak wants to come and play and to get back to competing.
“He loves Australia and it’s where he’s had the best success but the timing [on any announcement] is up to somebody else and we’ll just play that one by ear.”
Djokovic has won the Australian Open nine times.
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A highly impressive @DjokerNole overcame No. 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas in his opening Nitto ATP Finals match where he won 6-4, 7-6(4) recording his 60th career win over a Top 3 player.
He is on course for a record-equalling sixth Nitto ATP Finals title with the win and end the year on a high.
Read Also: Can Mercedes Get Back Into The Mix At Their Favourable Barcelona Circuit?
Djokovic now tops the Red Group and will face Andrey Rublev on Wednesday.
Tsitsipas play Danil Medvedev on that day as well.
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Written By Uche Dozie
Switzerland win the Billie Jean King Cup for the first time, defeating Australia in the final.
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The Swiss emerged champions of the premier women’s team event in professional tennis against Australia after winning 2-0 in the final in Glasgow, Scotland.
Swiss representatives, Jil Teichmann and reigning Olympic champion Belinda Bencic combined for singles wins to give Switzerland the lead.
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Teichmann defeated Sorm Sanders 6-3, 4-6, 6-3. Bencic then followed with a swift 6-2, 6-1 win over Ajla Tomljanovic to clinch the trophy.
“It was a great battle,” Teichmann said on court afterward. “Storm is playing very good the whole week, I was expecting a big fight. So here I was, getting the fight, and I’m super happy I got the point.”
Team captain Heinz Günthardt asserted after the match that the team's success was long time coming.
"We didn't win this just today; it was this week, it was actually over years, we tried to get better and better at it," team captain Heinz Günthardt. said "You saw how many close points there were; who knows why we win some and lose some. A lot of it has to do with heart, and this team has a lot of heart."
Meanwhile…
The draw for next year's Billie Jean King Cup Qualifiers took place on Sunday. They will be held April 14-15, 2023.
"This weekend, 16 countries faced off in home-and-away ties, with the eight winners of those ties moving into the 2023 Qualifiers draw, along with the 10 nations that finished between third and 12th place in Glasgow this week.
Read Also: Can Mercedes Get Back Into The Mix At Their Favourable Barcelona Circuit?
The nine winners from the matchups below will join this year's finalists Switzerland and Australia and the host nation (or if already qualified, a wild card) in next year's Billie Jean King Cup"
According to Swiss Tennis President René Stammbach, this final round will not take place in Switzerland. "The host cities have to provide the international association with a guarantee of around 4 million dollars," he explains. «That is hardly manageable in Switzerland. That's why we won't apply."
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Written by Patrick Echatah
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is expected to make heavy rotations when Real Madrid visit Girona this Tuesday in a mid-week La Liga game.
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Karim Benzema and Eduardo Camavinga missed Monday’s training session and will stay in the Spanish capital as their teammates face Girona.
Ceballos will also miss the game after seeing his fifth yellow card last Saturday, so Kroos and Modric could very well return to the lineup after not being involved on the match against Celta Vigo.
It makes sense for Ancelotti to make sure everyone stays healthy and fresh as Los Blancos have nothing to play for in La Liga other than the battle with Atletico de Madrid for the second spot.
Still, Real Madrid will need to increase their momentum and confidence ahead of the first leg against Manchester City on May 9th, so the next few weeks will still be very important for Los Blancos.
Read Also – Vinicius Jr: A Victim Of Spanish FA Ineptitude And Incompetence
Meanwhile…
Real Madrid Castilla are battling tooth and nail for direct promotion to Segunda. The side sit in 2nd place, just one point behind leaders Alcorcon.
With five matches remaining, Raul and Carlo Ancelotti have a silent pact not to call-up any Castilla players when matches conflict between the first team and the reserve team.
Raul is using all his efforts and all his resources to try earn promotion. Ancelotti has insisted that players from the 2003-2004 generation will, “soon be part of the first-team”, but there minutes with the first team have been sparse this season.
(managingmadrid)
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Written By Onyeka Daniel
English Premier League leaders, Arsenal are currently going through a tough period in their season and they run the risk of falling out in the title race after a strings of bad results has helped their rivals to reduce the gap at the top to just three points.
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With Arsenal set to play Manchester City on Wednesday, the defending champions could go top of the table with a win against the Gunners and Mikel Arteta has been urged to drop Brazilian forward, Gabriel Martinelli for Leandro Trossard for the crucial game.
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Trossard came off the bench against Brentford and scored his first goal for Arsenal, with the Belgian still waiting to make his first League start for the club.
Martinelli has started every League match so far this season, though he is now on a run of seven matches without a goal for the Gunners and his performances have not been quite as explosive since the turn of the year.
Former Premier League goalkeeper Shaka Hislop believes Arteta should make a big call on the left wing against City. “When he has come on, Leandro Trossard has had an impact,” Hislop told ESPN.
"So if you’re Arteta, I think the time is right to think: ‘Well, do I now play Trossard from the very start?’
“Now, Martinelli is quick, and defences coming up against that kind of pace, you have to adjust just for that pure speed that Martinelli brings. But he hasn’t had much of an impact. He’s not been playing well and is struggling a bit.
"So the easy change I think given the form of Trossard, given the fact that he’s finally got on the scoresheet for Arsenal, is that you have to play him from the very start.
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Argentina World Cup star, Julian Alvarez could get a starting spot on Wednesday against Arsenal if Erling Haaland doesn’t recover in time for the game after picking up a knock in the 3-1 over Aston Villa at the weekend.
Read Also: Bettitude Striker Of The Year 2022: Lionel Messi
“Right now I don’t know,” Guardiola said when asked if the Norwegian international will play against the Gunners.
"We will have to see over the next few days. He got a knock and was uncomfortable so at 3-0 up we didn’t want to take the risk. We will assess him and if he’s not ready we will play someone else. Hopefully he is ready.” It should be recalled that Haaland was substituted at half time against Aston Villa and Alvarez was his direct replacement.
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Written By Onyeka Daniel
Sometimes around November last year, the Glazers family announced that the would be willing to listen to offers to sell English Premier League side, Manchester United and it looks like they may have found a willing buyer after all.
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At least that is the latest when lifelong Manchester United supporter and British Billionaire, Sir Jim Ratcliffe confirmed that he is willing to buy the club.
Ratcliffe, who has a stake in Formula 1 side, Mercedes also owns two football clubs, OGC Nice and Swiss club, FC Lausanne-Sport, has been flirting with the prospect of buying his childhood club for several months as many United fans pine for a new owner.
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The Glazer family finally put the club up for sale in November after intense pressure from supporters who have been demanding changes. Ratcliffe has naturally been heavily linked again ever since and, on Tuesday, became the first party to make a public move by confirming his plans.
"We have formally put ourselves into the process," a spokesman for the INEOS chairman confirmed to The Times. Hamilton has a strong relationship with Ratcliffe. Not only is the 70-year-old a part-owner of his Mercedes team(1/3), but the two Brits are also friends and Hamilton has openly said he sees the billionaire as more of a partner than a boss.
The seven-time world champion has also made it very clear that he is keen to get more involved in the ownership of sports teams. He is already an investor in NFL franchise the Denver Broncos and made it clear he would be open to adding a stake in Manchester United to his sizeable business empire.
"Jim’s part boss but partner – I'd say we're more partners because we're in this together and I hope in future to do something with Jim and build with him," said Hamilton last year. "I don't know where that will be or what that will be, so I can't really say.
“I haven’t had a call from him asking if I want to be involved in [a United takeover bid] just yet, but I do want to get more and more involved in teams because I really do believe in black ownership – there is a lack of it in sports – and black equity. Again, there is a real lack of that.” He further added.
Ratcliffe’s intentions to buy United comes after a failed attempt to buy Chelsea when the London club was abruptly put up for sale last year. Hamilton was also involved in that race as he joined Sir Martin Broughton’s consortium, but both lost out to Todd Boehly who paid more than £4bn for the Blues.
There are reports that the Glazers family will not consider a bid less than €5 billion at least, so it would actually require more than it would have cost the Billionaire when he wanted to buy Chelsea. Ratcliffe may be rivalled by bids from Saudi Arabia and Qatar, while huge American companies like Apple and Amazon have also been linked.
Meanwhile...
Manchester United winger, Jadon Sancho has now resumed regular training at the club ahead of making his return to the team since he picked up an injury last year.
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The Englishman was substituted in the game against Chelsea November last year and has been having a reoccurrence of injury since then, leading the club to prescribe a personalized training program for him to help him recover fully.
The timing of his return couldn’t have come any sooner as the Red Devils are on a resurgence, defeating Manchester City over the weekend to reduce the gap between them to just one point, while they lie joint 3rd on the EPL table with Newcastle United, going into the next round of matches.
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Written By Uche Dozie
Portimao is now a serious option to replace the 2023 Chinese GP subject to the ratification by FIA World Council in a week from now.
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The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve may once again host a Formula 1 Grand Prix in the 2023 season.
According to João Carlos Costa, commentator for the Formula 1 World Cup on Sport TV, the Algarve track is at the forefront of hosting the event that will replace the Chinese Grand Prix.
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Although it is part of next year's calendar, the Chinese race is expected to be canceled due to the "Covid zero" policy implemented in the country.
The Chinese Grand Prix was scheduled for the 16th of April, when the Endurance World Championship will visit the Portimão track.
A final decision regarding the Chinese Grand Prix and its eventual replacement race is expected to be announced at the next meeting of the FIA World Motor Sport Council, which scheduled for Bologna, Italy on December 9.
Meanwhile…
Tickets are now on sale for the highly anticipated first ever official Formula 1 exhibition, which is set to open in the Spanish city of Madrid on March 24, 2023, and run until July 16, 2023.
Delivered across six purpose-built rooms, each specially designed in collaboration with award-winning curators, artists and film-makers, the exhibition will take visitors on a stunning adventure through the extraordinary world of Formula 1.
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Beginning in The Human Race, attendees are welcomed by a cinematic prelude that uncovers the essence of Formula 1 and the experience that lies ahead. The next room is the Design Lab, where fans are transported into an F1 factory, as the room explores the design, testing and manufacturing process of a modern-day Formula 1 car.
Progressing onto Once Upon A Time In Formula 1, exhibition goers will take a trip through the history of the sport via iconic photographs that document the sport’s most defining moments.
Drivers and Duels offers a race circuit inspired design and celebrates the most iconic drivers and legendary races since Formula 1 began.
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Written By Uche Dozie
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem gave disclosed that some F1 teams wanted Red Bull to be given harsher punishment for their breach of the cost cap.
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Red Bull was fined $7 million in last October by International Automobile Federation (FIA) for breaching a budget cap last season and will have 10% less wind tunnel time over the next year.
A measure that many rivals of the British-based team expected to be more according to FIA Boss, Ben Sulayem.
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"I believe that there was a balance between [the financials] and the sporting penalties,” Ben Sulayem said. “But we learned a lot and a big review is going into it, because who knows in the first year [of the cost cap] what is going to be the outcome?
"If you look at the other big teams, they will say we have been light on them. [In terms of] the penalty, some of them want to be hanged, they wanted to see blood, and the teams themselves see this as huge themselves.
“So where do we draw [the line]? We have to be fair. Do we want to get rid of them or straighten up and not do it? The only thing I would say is that what we did in September/October should be done earlier.
“But as it is the first year, we have learned a lot from it - and we are still learning. It is better to come at me in May and not just in October.”
The FIA president also voiced his frustration about information being leaked.
Recently, the FIA have announced that Shaila-Ann Rao has left her role as interim Secretary General for Motor Sport after six months.
She found herself at the centre of the controversy after Red Bull suspected that Rao - previously employed by Mercedes - had possibly released confidential information.
"We were in Austria having a meeting of the F1 Commission, and we were already talking about it," he added.
"It was already in the news, but it's frustrating sometimes because by the time you finish your meeting, something is going out."
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The FIA president has dismissed reports of a rift between him and F1's commercial right holders.
This is coming on the heels of issues which have plagued Ben Sulayem's administration which started late last year.
Read Also: Can Mercedes Get Back Into The Mix At Their Favourable Barcelona Circuit?
Issues of the report into the events of Abu Dhabi, the consistency of race stewards' decisions, F1's jewellery ban, plus the handling of the safety car in Monza and the presence of a crane on track in Japan have reared their heads since he took over.
As a result, insinuations have abound of relations between Formula One Management and Ben Sulayem been strained, with things reaching a critical point earlier this year when the FIA stalled on approving plans for six sprint races in 2023.
But Ben Sulayem has rubbished such talk and says that he and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali work well together.
Asked about suggestions of there being friction, Ben Sulayem said: "It's a bit difficult for me to understand: where does this come from?
"I'll tell you: my relationship with FOM. First of all, I speak to Stefano I think every two days. If I don't [call him] he calls, and this is the way. Even before any meeting or before any decisions. It's a marriage. This marriage is going to last, and strongly."
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Written By Uche Dozie
It brings a three-year reign at the head of Formula 1's most famous team, as well as a 28-year career in total, to an end.
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Mattia Binotto will leave his position as Ferrari team principal at the end of 2022 after resigning from his position as F1 team principal.
The Formula One team announced on Tuesday that a hunt for the 53-year-old’s replacement was under way.
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Binotto has been with the team for 28 years and at the helm for three but his departure had been widely expected after another disappointing year for the Scuderia, which was strewn with reliability issues and mistakes.
"With the regret that this entails, I have decided to conclude my collaboration with Ferrari," said Binotto, who had previously insisted he was going to stay for 2023.
"I am leaving a company that I love, which I have been part of for 28 years, with the serenity that comes from the conviction that I have made every effort to achieve the objectives set.
"I leave a united and growing team. A strong team, ready, I'm sure, to alchieve the highest goals, to which I wish all the best for the future. I think it is right to take this step at this time as hard as this decision has been for me.
"I would like to thank all the people at the Gestione Sportiva who have shared this journey with me, made up of difficulties but also of great satisfaction."
Ferrrai CEO Benedetto Vigna added: "I would like to thank Mattia for his many great contributions over 28 years with Ferrari and particularly for leading the team back to a position of competitiveness during this past year.
"As a result, we are in a strong position to renew our challenge, above all for our amazing fans around the world, to win the ultimate prize in motorsport. Everyone here at the Scuderia and in the wider Ferrari community wishes Mattia well for the future."
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Reports have it that Ferrari had spoken to top principals in F1 including Red Bull’s Horner, to replace Binotto even before his exit was confirmed.
However, no principal was ready to accept the offer due to the churn with which Ferrari go through team principals, the report says.
Read Also: Can Mercedes Get Back Into The Mix At Their Favourable Barcelona Circuit?
It also states that CEO Benedetto Vigna has “meddled” with team strategies, which Ferrari have been criticised for regularly in 2022.
Ferrari began considering Binotto’s position after the F1 Brazilian Grand Prix leading to speculation that Alfa Romeo’s Frederic Vasseur would replace him.
Ferrari chairman John Elkann did not end this speculation until Binotto asked him to do so - at which point the team released a statement.
Binotto then thought his job was safe, having delivered a second-place for Charles Leclerc in the F1 standings and a second-place for Ferrari in the constructors’ championship.
Binotto realised there was no trust in his position and offered his resignation, which was accepted.
Reports in Italy say that Alfa Romeo’s Vasseur has a verbal agreement to takeover as Ferrari team principal but hasn’t signed a deal yet.
Vasseur gave Leclerc his F1 debut and would plan to prioritise the driver as the team’s undisputed No 1.
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Written By Uche Dozie
A move to Red Bull for Ricciardo marks a reunion with the team whose young driver programme he represented through the junior ranks.
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After frustrating time with F1 racing McLaren, Daniel Ricciardo have moved back to Red Bull as a reserve driver for 2023.
The news was announced by Red Bull on Wednesday via their social media channels.
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At the end of this season, Ricciardo departed McLaren to make way for compatriot Oscar Piastri, who races alongside Lando Norris in 2023. The eight-time Grand Prix winner – who took a one-two for McLaren at Monza in 2021 – will return to Red Bull to assist with testing, simulator work and commercial activity.
“It is great to bring Daniel back in to the Red Bull family. He has enormous talent and such a brilliant character; I know the whole factory is excited to be welcoming him home.
In his role as test and third driver, Daniel will give us the chance to diversify, assisting in the development of the car, aiding the team with his experience and knowledge of what it takes to succeed in F1. We’re very pleased to be working with Daniel again and look forward to everything he will bring to the Team in 2023.” Oracle Red Bull Racing Team Principal and CEO Christian Horner said.
“The smile says it all, I’m truly excited to be coming back home to Oracle Red Bull Racing as their Third Driver in 2023. I already have so many fond memories of my time here, but the welcome from Christian, Dr Marko and the entire team is something I’m sincerely appreciative of.
For me personally, the ability to contribute to and be surrounded by the best team in F1 is hugely appealing, whilst also giving me some time to recharge and refocus. I can’t wait to be with the team and support with simulator work, testing sessions and commercial activities. Let’s go!”Daniel Ricciardo said.
Meanwhile…
The Australian made his debut for HRT in 2011 but joined Red Bull feeder squad Toro Rosso the following year, before being called up to Red Bull in 2014. There, he partnered Sebastian Vettel, Daniil Kvyat and Max Verstappen.
McLaren's Boss, Seidl has said that he would blame Daniel Ricciardo's situation for how the season turned out for McLaren.
He maintains it was a joint responsibility between the driver and the team.
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"I'm far away from just blaming the situation with Daniel for not scoring P4 this year," Seidl said after Sunday's season finale.
"In the end I'm aware as well about my responsibility, the team's responsibility not to get it to work together with Daniel in the way we were hoping for, despite the great commitment that was taken on Daniel's side and on ours.
"That's part of not scoring the points as a team that you wanted or could have scored. It's part of the sport and that's something that we try to address or improve for next year."
The Australian's struggles proved particularly costly in the constructors' championship, as McLaren fell from fourth to fifth after finishing 14 points behind Alpine.
Ricciardo gathered only 37 points compared to teammate Lando Norris' 122.
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Written By Uche Dozie
Max Verstappen completes a hat-trick of wins at Abu Dhabi, and notches a remarkable 15th first place of the season.
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Defending Champion, Max Verstappen returned to winning ways after his season ending win at Abu Dhabi on Sunday.
The Dutchman who started on pole didn't stutter as he continued his dominance since the beginning of the season beating Ferrari driver, Charles Leclerc and teammate, Sergio Perez.
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Leclerc, who was Verstappen's title rival earlier this year before Ferrari's season imploded in a flood of errors and reliability failures, held off Perez on divergent strategies to take second place.
Hamilton was heading for a pole finish suffered a hydraulics issue on the penultimate lap.
The mechanical failure duly finished off the first winless season of Hamilton's trophy-laden 16-year F1 career.
Verstappen's win was his 15th of 2022, extending the new record he has set this year for wins in a single season.
"It was a good race," said Verstappen. "It was all about tyre management. I think we looked after the mediums quite well and then on the hard tyres managing until the end.
"A 15th win of the season is unbelievable. It's been really enjoyable to work with the whole team and to be able to achieve something like this. I know it is going to be hard to replicate but it is also very good motivation to try and do well again next year."
Sebastian Vettel bade an emotional farewell in his last race, retiring after a 16‑year career and four world championships. “I’m sure I’m going to miss this more than I can think of,” he said. “I don’t have much more to say, I feel empty.”
He closed out with 10th place for Aston Martin at the track where he secured his first title in 2010 and was treated to a well‑deserved standing ovation as he climbed from his car for the last time.
Carlos Sainz was fourth for Ferrari, Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo sixth and ninth for McLaren, Esteban Ocon seventh for Alpine and Lance Stroll eighth for Aston Martin.
Meanwhile…
Two-time F1 champion, Max Verstappen has said he may likely call it quit with the sport after the expiration of his contract with Red Bull.
The Dutch driver finished the season with fifteen race wins out of twenty-two and clinched his second consecutive title.
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It is not looking likely that Verstappen will stay beyond his 2028 contract with Red Bull despite the success achieved.
"I don't know after that," he told Sky Sports F1's David Croft ahead of another victory at the Abu Dhabi GP. "But it also probably depends how competitive we are in '28.
"I've still got time. I don't want to make drastic decisions now."
Verstappen, who will be 31-years-old when his deal ends, then admitted his reasons for those doubts.
"I want to do other stuff," he said.
"F1 is amazing and I've achieved a lot, and I'm very happy and proud about it… but it's a lot of travelling and it's a lot of races [F1 is set for a 24-race season in 2023].
"And at one point, what is more important? Is family more important, or is F1 more important? That's when you need to make your mind up."
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Written By Onyeka Daniel
After winning the German League title by the whiskers, with little help from another team and on the last day of the season, Bayern Munich have reacted quickly to correct the anomaly of a season that they had as they aim to return back to the dominant force that they once were.
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In an unexpected move, the club quickly announced the exit of the club’s CEO, Oliver Kahn and sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic. They’ve now taken it a step further by reaching a deal for England midfielder, Declan Rice.
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At least, according to several reports from England and Germany who are all reporting that an agreement between the player and the Bavarians has been found. They’ve managed to convince the player to move to Germany and are now prepared to pay the €100 million transfer fee being quoted for him.
For the moment, the deal will be on the back burner, until after the final of the European Conference League where Rice will be on duty for West Ham against Italian side, Fiorentina for Europe’s third tier trophy.
Arsenal and Chelsea were rumored to be interested in the Rice with the Gunners said to be the more serious suitor, but they're not ready to pay the required fee, but instead, woukd rather try to negotiate it down to €60 to €70 million instead.
After the final, talks are expected to progress quickly as Bayern look to give Thomas Tuchel all the support he needs to succeed at the club. This move will have a ricocheting effect on Joshua Kimmich, who has been rumored to be seeking for a move away from the club.
EPL clubs, Manchester City and Arsenal have been linked with the defender turned midfielder while Spanish side, Barcelona are also looking to sign him, but they lack the financial means to get into the fray for the player who is expected to cost between €50 to €60 million in July.
Meanwhile...
Manchester United midfielder, Fred has dropped a hint on his future and he could be on his way out of the club in the summer as oart of a summer reshuffling at the Old Trafford stadium. Fred has one year left on his contract but the Brazil international admitted he is unsure if he will remain at United next season.
The 30-year-old, who joined United for £52million from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2018, started just 12 Premier League games this season and is considering a move for more playing time. Fred, handed a rare start in United’s 2-1 FA Cup final defeat, was asked about his future and said:
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“I still don’t know, I have to talk with my family. I still have one year left on my contract here. Now it’s holiday time and a good opportunity to rest. I’ll talk to my staff, to the club and see what everyone’s decision is.
“I do have to talk with Ten Hag as well. He’s the manager and the conversation has to involve everyone. We have to see how next season will plan out. “I want to be important, I want to help the team, so we’ll see. But I’ve always been and still am very happy at Manchester United.”
“Of course I always want to be playing, to be helping my team, and gladly I started the final and I think we played well.” He further added. Fred was criticised for his role in Manchester City’s winner at Wembley, with former United skipper Roy Keane pointing the finger after he fouled Kevin de Bruyne near the touchline. A move to West Ham to replace Rice could be on the card while Fulham could also be interested in his services.
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Written By Onyeka Daniel
It has been confirmed that French forward, Karim Benzema will be leaving Spanish giants, Real Madrid this summer as he has already informed the club of the decision with reports that he has been swayed by the huge offer on the table from Saudi Arabia.
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Real Madrid in an official statement said that both parties agreed to a mutual termination of Benzema’s contract at the end of this month, meaning that Sunday’s match against Athletic Club will be the Frenchman’s final appearance in the famous white jersey.
During his time at Real Madrid, Benzema won 25 trophies, establishing himself as one of the most successful players in the club’s esteemed history. This included five Champions Leagues, five LaLiga titles and three Copa del Rey crowns.
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On Tuesday, Real Madrid will hold an institutional act of homage and farewell to Benzema, with Florentino Perez to be present to pay tribute to the 35-year-old.
Wasting no time, the Los Blancos have started to make move to find a quality replacement for their captain and talisman, but the departure may have come a little early for the club to try and sign Erling Haaland, who has always been the desired replacement.
For his replacement, three names have been put forward for now, Tottenham Hotspur forward, Harry Kane, Chelsea’s Kai Havertz and Eintracht Frankfurt marauding forward, Randal Kolo Muani.
For Kane, there are so many what ifs, even if he would guarantee the most certainty in terms of output and impact that Benzema had at the Santiago Bernabeu and he’s still younger, but Madrid knows just how tough it is to negotiate with Spurs when they signed Luka Modric and Gareth Bale in the past.
While Havertz isn’t really a forward, he has played in that position mainly for the Blues this season. Chelsea would be willing to let him leave for the right price as they look to revamp their squad under Mauricio Pochettino and bring in a proper striker to lead their attack.
For Kolo Muani, he’s the least popular of the trio and would probably cost the least too, but he’s got a great pace and has shown with his performance with Frankfurt that he’s ready for the big stage. Several reports from Germany are indicating that Havertz is the closest of the three.
Meanwhile...
Manchester City have decided to sell Portuguese defender, Joao Cancelo and have already set a price tag of €40 million for any interested club. Barcelona have been credited with an interested, but it will be hard for them to fork out that sum for the player in the summer, given their financial situation.
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Having spent the second half of last season on loan with German side, Bayern Munich, the Bavarians failed to make the move permanent and with the player not having any future with City, at least as long as Pep Guardiola is still in charge.
Another EPL side, Manchester United may look to join the race, but it’s hard seeing City sanctioning the move as they would be directly strengthening a rival, but then, they had no qualms selling Gabriel Jesus to Arsenal.
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Written by Oluwaseun Oyediji
English Women's Super League (WSL) Champions, Chelsea have confirmed that defender Maren Mjelde has signed a one-year contract extension with the Blues, keeping her at the club for a further 12 months.
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Mjelde joined the Blues ahead of the Spring Series in 2017 and has established herself as a key member of the squad.
The Norwegian international has won the Spring Series, five Women’s Super League titles, four FA Cups, two League Cups, and the Community Shield.
She contributed to one of the team's most memorable moments of the 2022/2023 season against Lyon in the UEFA Women’s Champions League quarter-finals at Stamford Bridge, scoring a penalty with the last kick of extra time to force a shootout where she scored again to help Emma Hayes' side into the semi-finals.
On signing her extension, Mjelde said on the club website: ‘I feel really happy, Chelsea is my club and it has been for six-and-a-half years. I’m happy to stay here, it’s been my home for a long time and I’m really excited for next season.’
General manager Paul Green commented: ‘We’re delighted that Maren has committed to the club for another season. She is one of our leaders both on and off the pitch. Her experience and quality within the group are really important. She’s been a big part of our success over the years and we’re looking forward to seeing her again next season.’
Mjelde helped Chelsea towards a third consecutive FA Cup triumph at Wembley in May which preceded a fourth straight WSL title.
The 33-year-old has made 131 appearances for the Blues, scoring 22 goals and showing prowess from the penalty spot in particular.
Meanwhile…
Chelsea had a wonderful 2022/2023 season domestically and to an extent in Europe.
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The Blues won two of three domestic titles after its loss to Arsenal in the League Cup final.
The team bounced back to win the WSL and FA Cup titles to cap up the season.
In the UEFA Women's Champions League, the London side lost the semi-final by a goal against Champions, FC Barcelona Femeni.
It had earlier defeated the most successful team in the competition, Lyon in the quarter-final.
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Written By Onyeka Daniel
With the season over for most teams in the top European Leagues, preparations are already underway for the coming season as stocks are being taken and transfer targets are being narrowed down.
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For several English Premier League clubs, signing a top quality goalkeeper is top priority and this season, Inter Milan goalkeeper, Andre Onana is one of the top performers in Europe, joining the Nerazzurri as a free agent last summer when his contract with Ajax ran down and has been a revelation.
He helped the Nerazzurri to win the Coppa Italia, the Supercoppa Italiana and also guiding them to the final of the UCL. They will be facing EPL champions, Manchester City in Istanbul, Turkey and the Cameroonian shot stopper will be aiming to keep his 9th clean sheet in the tournament, no mean feat against a rampaging City side.
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His performance hasn’t gone unnoticed as three EPL clubs, Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are all queuing up for his services. According to reports from England and France, Chelsea are ready to offer Edouard Mendy plus cash for Onana.
Mendy has been battling all season for the gloves with Kepa Arrizabalaga and neither of them made the role their own. New manager, Mauricio Pochettino is said to have approved this move as he aims to return the club back among the elites after they finished 12th this season. Spurs are also on the lookout for a goalkeeper with Hugo Lloris not getting any younger and expected to leave the club in the summer.
Onana due to his age would make a perfect replacement for the French goalkeeper who has been tipped to return to Nice next season. Manchester United are also not left out in the race as Erik Ten Hag is reportedly fed up with David De Gea and his repeated blunders, with the latest coming against Manchester City in the FA Cup final.
German midfielder, Ilkay Gundogan scored two goals to help City lift their second trophy and he scored his first goal after just 12 seconds. But his second came from a weak shot from the edge of the penalty area which De Gea failed to stop.
In his post match interview, Ten Hag didn’t blame his goalkeeper but his it was very obvious that he expected better from the Spanish shot stopper. “In this moment, I don’t want to talk about such issues of criticism because we played all a great season — including David De Gea, he played a fantastic season,” Ten Hag said about the 32-year-old.
According to reports from Italy, Inter are open to selling Onana after just one season. This is due to any transfer fee Inter receive for Onana can be registered as capital gains on the Nerazzurri balance sheet.
But the club’s CEO Beppe Marotta, will not let Onana go for anything other than cash. The Nerazzurri are hoping for a bidding war for their Cameroon star to maximize the profit from any sale and they won’t accept any bid less than €50 million.
Meanwhile.. .
Manchester United target Randal Kolo Muani has reportedly ‘offered his services’ to Real Madrid, as he looks for a move away from Eintracht Frankfurt. Erik ten Hag has made signing a new centre-forward one of his priority and Muani is believed to be one of Man Utd’s key transfer targets.
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But, if Real Madrid take up the opportunity to sign him, the Red Devils will have to look elsewhere. Carlo Ancelotti is currently on the hunt for attacking reinforcements, after it was confirmed that Karim Benzema would be leaving in the summer.
This season, the 24-year-old has made 45 appearances across all competitions for Eintracht Frankfurt. In the process, he has scored 23 goals and made 17 assists. He’s expected to cost as high as €70 million plus.
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Written by Olaleye Oluwadamilola
FC Nantes retained their Ligue 1 status all thanks to Ignatius Ganago first half strike to earn a nervy 1-0 win against already relegated Angers SCO as Lionel Messi loses final game for Paris Saint Germain amidst boos from the club ultras.
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At the end of a meeting whose end to the match was unbreathable, FC Nantes, at the end of the end of Ligue 1 championship managed to obtain its maintenance in the elite of French football thanks to its victory of the evening in front of Angers SCO (1 -0) and thanks to a Lens' success at Auxerre (1-3) with Ignatius Ganago grabbing the only goal of the evening to secure the yellow and green French top-flight status.
Auxerre have made an immediate return to Ligue 2 after a 3-1 defeat to Lens, extending their winless run to seven league matches and consigning Christophe Pelissier’s side to relegation.
The hosts came into this game knowing they had to win to guarantee their top-flight status for another season, with Nantes ready to seize upon any errors with a victory over Angers.
Nantes narrowly avoided the Ligue 1 drop, claiming three crucial points in their final game of the season against already-relegated Angers and in doing so, La Maison Jaune ended a dismal run of 14 matches without a victory, leapfrogging Auxerre to condemn them to Ligue 2 football next season.
Heading into the final day of a dismal Ligue 1 campaign two points adrift of safety, the equation was relatively straightforward for Nantes - win, and hope Auxerre could not do so against second-placed Lens as they will join Ajaccio, Troyes in the four team relegation list to Ligue 2 BKT.
The alternative was certain relegation, but the home fans were in full voice, and their side mirrored that defiant attitude with an assertive start, taking the lead in the 16th minute as the goal was enough to preserve their participation in Ligue 1 next season.
At the final whistle, everything dropped. The emotion, the nerves... the public let their happiness, their joy, see the Canaries save themselves on this final day. What a joy to see these images at the end of the season, with the anthem to La Beaujoire sung in unison, on the green rectangle.
On the other hand, Stade Rennais FC snatched fourth place and qualification for the UEFA Europa League thanks to a 2-1 win at Stade Brestois 29 on Saturday while LOSC Lille drew and AS Monaco lost.
Rennes, who set a new club-record points tally with 68, have qualified for a sixth consecutive European campaign.
Meanwhile...
Lionel Messi was booed by fans on his final appearance for PSG on Saturday night after the club had earlier confirmed that the game against Clermont will be his last for the French giants at the Parc des Princes as the crowd jeered when Messi's name was announced in the starting XI.
Loosing their final home game of the season, 24 - Paris have conceded 24 goals at home in Ligue 1 2022/23, their highest tally at the Parc des Princes in a single season in the top-flight since 1984/85 (28). Timorous.
Messi had received similar treatment after returning from a club-imposed suspension for making an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia and he also felt the wrath of disgruntled supporters following the Champions League exit to Bayern Munich.
Read Also - Messi And PSG: A Toxic Relationship Begging For Separation
After two seasons with the club, Messi will leave Le Parc des Princes at the end of the season.
A statement from the club posted to their social media channels, read: 'After two seasons with PSG, the adventure between Leo Messi and Paris Saint-Germain will come to an end at the end of the 2022-23 campaign.
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Written by Patrick Echatah
Ilkay Gundogan has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona on a free transfer in the summer transfer window but could be set to stay at Manchester City.
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The Germany international has enjoyed a superb season with Pep Guardiola’s side and continued in the same vein on Saturday, scoring twice in an FA Cup final win over Manchester United.
Guardiola spoke about the midfielder after the win and is hoping he continues with the club.
“He knows what I think,” said Guardiola.
“Maybe some of you know it, we are neighbours, we live on the same floor so for many years he is a close friend of mine.
“He plays exceptional. Hopefully we can finish in a good way. Txiki [Begiristain] is working [on the contract]. The season he has done is exceptional.”
Gundogan also spoke about his future after the match and admits he still hasn’t quite made up his mind what to do next.
“To be honest I don’t need these kinds of days to feel appreciated and special,” he told BBC Sport.
“I know that, that’s why I’ve been here for 7 years, with all the ups and downs I’ve had had. Nothing is decided yet so we will see what will happen.”
Gundogan will now turn his attention to next weekend’s Champions League final against Inter. Another win for City would see Guardiola’s men do the treble.
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Meanwhile…
Both Barcelona and Saudi club Al-Hilal are hoping that Lionel Messi will decide to join them next Tuesday, according to reports.
The Catalan club is hoping that La Liga will officially approve their “viability plan” that maps out their signings and sales for the upcoming transfer window.
That would ensure that new contracts added to the squad will be registered according to Financial Fair Play rules.
(barcablaugranes)
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Written By Onyeka Daniel
It’s shaping up to be a great season for Manchester City midfielder, Ilkay Gundogan after his 2 goal heroic helped his team to win the FA Cup over city rivals, Manchester United at the Wembley stadium.
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He's been in a terrific form lately for City, popping up with some important goals and has scored 6 goals in his last 9 matches played while also contributing his fair share in defensive duties, but the Citizens run the risk of losing the player for next season.
His current contract with the club is set to expire in July and there’s a heavy interest in the player, especially from Spanish side, Barcelona who are in the lookout for top quality players to sign on a free transfer.
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The Blaugrana have been heavily linked with a free transfer move for the German international as part of a squad rebuild. But Gundogan has consistently stated his preference is to wait until the season is completed, as City push for a possible trophy treble, with a decision not expected until mid-June.
Talks will be stepped up after City’s Champions League final with Inter Milan on June 10, and the 32-year-old faces a key call on his future. After another magnificent display today to help city win their second trophy in their treble quest, Gundogan confirmed his future remains unresolved.
“I don’t need these kind of days to feel appreciated and special at this club”, he said in an interview. “I know that, and that’s why I have been here for seven years. Nothing is decided yet, we will see what will happen.”
City are rumoured to be ready to offer Gundogan a 12-month extension at the Etihad Stadium, but Barcelona could offer two years, with Arsenal also angling for a possible deal.
The player wants to stay at City but prefers a longer contract and a compromise could be reached if they offer him a one year contract plus an option for another year depending on certain factors.
Meanwhile...
Coach of Italian side, Inter Milan has seemingly given out his game plan ahead of the game against City in one weeks time. Today, the Nerazzurri played their last game in the domestic League, sealing a 1-0 away win over Torino and in the post match conference, Inzaghi gave an insight on what to expect against City.
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“Today City played against United, who are an excellent team.” He said. “We’ll need to suffer together and play football well, because we have to take possession off of them. We have to attack with balance.
“We’ll prepare for it this week,” the coach continued. “We hope to have everyone back fit and available.” “There’s hope, and then Saturday will be a massive match that we’re all looking forward to.”
"I want to give a round of applause to my guys,” Inzaghi said. “Because playing against Torino the way we did today with a final one week away, they did very well.” He further added.
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Written by Olaleye Oluwadamilola
Bordeaux chances of promotion to French top-flight league may be all but over following the chaotic interruption earlier into the game by an home fan who launched a physical attacker on Rodez midfielder after the player gave his team in a must win game for Bordeaux to seal promotion to Ligue 1 which prompted the game to be abandoned half-way.
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Bordeaux's bid to win promotion to Ligue 1 descended into chaos after their final match of the season was abandoned following an attack on a Rodez by a fan.
The home side had to win and hope other results went their way to claim the second automatic promotion spot from Ligue 2, after Le Havre secured their place in the top-flight next term but Bordeaux went behind in the 22nd minute on Friday night after midfielder Luca Buades scored for the visitors.
And the Rodez midfielder was attacked by a fan on the pitch as he celebrated with team-mates with social media footage showing Buades and another player fall to the ground following the confrontation.
After receiving attention from the medical staff, the 25-year-old was removed from the pitch and the players returned to the dressing room and decision was then taken to abandon the match, with Bordeaux now needing a win and a four-goal advantage to usurp Metz to second spot.
Referee Nicolas Rainville later spoke at a press conference to explain the decision, stating that Buades was suffering from concussion.
He said: "The elements are conclusive, the player cannot resume the meeting because concussed, we have respected the rules, namely that the match will not resume."
An LFP statement read: "Following the attack on the player Lucas Buades by a supporter from the Bordeaux stand, the Bordeaux-Rodez meeting was officially stopped by the referee and the LFP delegates."
"The LFP Disciplinary Commission will meet on Monday to study the follow-up as we strongly condemn this act of violence against a player and wishes a speedy recovery to Lucas Buades."
Meanwhile...
Today if they don't concede been the final game of the season, Les Sang et Or could become the tenth team to concede fewer than 30 goals in the last ten seasons in Ligue 1 Uber Eats.
RC Lens have made progress in many areas of the game this season under the guidance of Franck Haise, who was voted Coach of the Season at the UNFP Trophies. This is particularly true in defence, where RCL have gone from conceding 48 goals last season to 28 heading into the final round in 2022-23, becoming the best defence in Ligue 1 Uber Eats when they were only eighth a season ago.
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With 90 minutes to go before the end of the season, Les Sang et Or have an eight-point lead over OGC Nice (36 goals) in the defensive rankings, with 15 clean sheets in total (compared with eight in 21-22) - the top performance in 22-23, ahead of Stade de Reims (14).
One of the stakes in Round 38 is whether Lens become the tenth team in the last ten seasons to concede fewer than 30 goals in a single Ligue 1 Uber Eats season. A final reward for RCL, who are already assured of second place in the table and a return to the Champions League.
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Written by Olaleye Oluwadamilola
Paris Saint Germain have today bade farewell to Lionel Messi with an official statement to confirm his exit from the club calling time on his trophy laden two year stint in France.
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The club has sent their goodwill messages to the Argentina captain as he journeys in his new adventure, thanking him for his indelible achievements for the team and Ligue 1 as he leaves as a free agent having lifted a Trophée des Champions trophy and two Ligue 1 titles with Les Rouge et Bleu.
On 29th August 2021, in Reims, Ligue 1 lapped up La Pulga’s big debut in French football. 74 appearances later, the Argentine ace has left a mark on France and on Europe with his talent, scoring 32 goals – the first of which came against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League on 28th September 2021 – as well as notching up 35 assists for Paris Saint-Germain.
A winner of the recent FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the Argentina captain has also shone for Paris Saint-Germain throughout the 2022–23 season. On top of his 16 goals in 31 Ligue 1 games, he is the league’s top assist provider, with 16 assists to his name, just two shy of the record set by his compatriot Angel Di María (18) before his move to Juventus.
Against Strasbourg on Matchday 37 of Ligue 1, Messi wrote his name even further into the history books by scoring his 496th goal in Europe’s top five leagues, thereby setting another incredible record.
Paris Saint-Germain is proud to have had the greatest footballer of all time within its ranks and, with some emotion, wishes Leo many more successes for the rest of his career.
"I would like to thank the club, the city of Paris and its people for these two years. I wish you all the best for the future", said Leo Messi.
"I would like to thank Leo Messi for his two seasons in Paris. To see a seven-time Ballon d’Or winner in the Rouge & Bleu and at Parc des Princes, winning back-to-back Ligue 1 titles and inspiring our younger players has been a pleasure." said Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, Chairman and CEO of Paris Saint-Germain. "His contribution to Paris Saint-Germain and Ligue 1 cannot be understated and we wish Leo and his family all the best for the future."
Meanwhile...
Following the announcement of his exit, Saudi Arabian side Al-Hillal are reportedly set to announce the signing of Lionel Messi on Tuesday, June 6 with today's match against Clermont Foot marking his final outing at the Parc des Princes.
Messi had been linked with a sensational return to Barcelona, but a source close to Al-Hillal says that a deal with the 35-year-old will be confirmed on Tuesday - according to Spanish news outlet, SPORT.
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The same source states that Al-Hilal are expecting a 'definitive yes' on June 6 and that they have 'prepared all of the necessary paperwork' to announce his signing on the same day.
SPORT have also stated that Al-Hilal are offering Messi €400million (£345m) per season to play for them - which is £170m more than what Cristiano Ronaldo is said to be earning at Al-Nassr.
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Written by Olaleye Oluwadamilola
French manager Christophe Galtier will be sacked by Paris Saint Germain after his final game of the season with club hierarchies keen to lure Jose Mourinho away from Roma to fill the managerial post as they plan a summer rebuild.
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Record title wining coach, Christophe Galtier will be leaving PSG at the end of the season alongside a host of first team stars in Lionel Messi, Sergio Ramos who announced his exit on his social media handle alongside players that have been shortlisted for a clear-outs as the French capital squad look to trim down bloated squad and bring in players who can help them compete at all fronts.
The former Lille boss signed a two-year deal with Les Parisiens in July, but will not take charge of the club next season according to a report from French publication L'Equipe.
With the league title already secured, PSG play host to Clermont Foot at the Parc des Princes on Saturday night, which will reportedly mark the final time Galtier takes charge of his side.
The decision is said to have been finalised by PSG owner Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, following Galtier's failure to progress beyond the last 16 of the Champions League.Galtier enjoyed a perfect start to life in the French capital, with his side going into the winter break undefeated in Ligue 1 with draws against Monaco and Stade Reims the only blemishes on an otherwise perfect record but results began to suffer following the World Cup, and Galtier's side endured a run of just one win in four league games in January.
Despite the disappointing run in the league continuing into February, the side never surrendered their lead atop of Ligue 1, with a 1-1 draw against Strasbourg last week enough to secure a record-breaking eleventh title to become France's all time top-flight league champios.
Sportsmail revealed last month that the club were already looking for potential successors to Galtier, with Roma boss Jose Mourinho emerging as a leading candidate to take the role.
The legendary boss has just one year remaining on his current deal at the Stadio Olimpico and may look for a new challenge after his side were defeated by Sevilla in the Europa League final on Wednesday.
Meanwhile...
Veteran defender, Sergio Ramos has announced he will leave PSG following the club's final game against Clermont on Saturday calling time on his two year stay in Paris having signed for the French side in 2021, and has won two Ligue 1 titles.
Ramos took to Twitter to share the news, declaring: "Tomorrow is a special day, tomorrow I will say goodbye to another stage of my life, goodbye to @PSG_inside."
Read Also - Messi And PSG: A Toxic Relationship Begging For Separation
"I don’t know in how many places one can feel at home, but without a doubt PSG, the fans, and Paris were one of them for me."
The 37-year-old is the latest big name to exit the French champions following confirmation that Lionel Messi will also be leaving the club at the end of his contract.
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