2 hours ago
Andoni Iraola has sent a message to Liverpool across his first few games in charge. It's puts the Reds in a difficult position.
We've now seen what Andoni Iraola is about over his first four matches in charge of Liverpool. The Spaniard has tried to develop the team quickly, hoping to get them pressing higher and playing with more energy than last season.
That was very apparent in the wins over Ipswich Town and Atlético Madrid. The latter was a particularly impressive win in the UEFA Champions League and it was the Reds' high press that made it happen.
What Iraola needs, then, is to get a hold of the right players for the right roles. That includes figuring who in this current bunch are capable of delivering what he needs.
And one decision he appears to have made on that puts Liverpool in a very tricky position.
#andoni #first
We've now seen what Andoni Iraola is about over his first four matches in charge of Liverpool. The Spaniard has tried to develop the team quickly, hoping to get them pressing higher and playing with more energy than last season.
That was very apparent in the wins over Ipswich Town and Atlético Madrid. The latter was a particularly impressive win in the UEFA Champions League and it was the Reds' high press that made it happen.
What Iraola needs, then, is to get a hold of the right players for the right roles. That includes figuring who in this current bunch are capable of delivering what he needs.
And one decision he appears to have made on that puts Liverpool in a very tricky position.
#andoni #first
5 hours ago
Atlético traveled on the afternoon of this Friday (11) to Montes Claros, where they will face North in the first round of the Octagonal Stage of the Minas Gerais U-15 and U-17 Championship. The matches will take place this Saturday (12), at 9 a.m. (U-15) and 11 a.m. (U-17), at CT Credinor.
The Octagonal Stage is scheduled to be played through October 31. Unlike the first phase, in the Octagonal, the points of each category are not added together. In total, eight teams compete in a single round-robin format for four spots in the semifinals of the competition. In the event of a tie on points, the tiebreaker criteria, in order, are: number of wins, goal difference, goals scored, head-to-head record, fewer red cards, fewer yellow cards, and drawing of lots. All cards received in the previous phase have been reset.
1st round – 09/12 – North x ATLÉTICO – 9 a.m. (U-15) and 11 a.m. (U-17) – Montes Claros2nd round – 09/19 – ATLÉTICO x América – 9 a.m. (U-15) and 11 a.m. (U-17) – Sesc Venda Nova3rd round – 09/26 – Cruzeiro x ATLÉTICO – 9 a.m. (U-15) and 11 a.m. (U-17) – Toca da Raposa I4th round – 10/03 – ATLÉTICO x Athletic – 9 a.m. (U-15) and 11 a.m. (U-17) – Cidade do Galo5th round – 10/17 – ATLÉTICO x Boston – 9 a.m. (U-15) and 11 a.m. (U-17) – Cidade do Galo6th round – 10/24 – Itabirito x ATLÉTICO – 9 a.m. (U-15) and 11 a.m. (U-17) – Arena Morro das Pedras7th round – 10/31 – ATLÉTICO x Coimbra – 9 a.m. (U-15) and 11 a.m. (U-17) – Sesc Venda Nova
Photo: Fabio Pinel / Atlético
Under head coach Rômulo Rodriguez, the U-15 Crias finished the first phase of the State Championship with the best record, earning 38 points — five more than the runner-up. The team went unbeaten in 14 matches: 12 wins and two draws. They also had the best attack and best defense of the first phase, with 41 goals scored and only four conceded. Forwards Moisés Caetano and Maurinho lead Galo's scoring in the competition, with 10 and nine goals, respectively.
#tico #head
The Octagonal Stage is scheduled to be played through October 31. Unlike the first phase, in the Octagonal, the points of each category are not added together. In total, eight teams compete in a single round-robin format for four spots in the semifinals of the competition. In the event of a tie on points, the tiebreaker criteria, in order, are: number of wins, goal difference, goals scored, head-to-head record, fewer red cards, fewer yellow cards, and drawing of lots. All cards received in the previous phase have been reset.
1st round – 09/12 – North x ATLÉTICO – 9 a.m. (U-15) and 11 a.m. (U-17) – Montes Claros2nd round – 09/19 – ATLÉTICO x América – 9 a.m. (U-15) and 11 a.m. (U-17) – Sesc Venda Nova3rd round – 09/26 – Cruzeiro x ATLÉTICO – 9 a.m. (U-15) and 11 a.m. (U-17) – Toca da Raposa I4th round – 10/03 – ATLÉTICO x Athletic – 9 a.m. (U-15) and 11 a.m. (U-17) – Cidade do Galo5th round – 10/17 – ATLÉTICO x Boston – 9 a.m. (U-15) and 11 a.m. (U-17) – Cidade do Galo6th round – 10/24 – Itabirito x ATLÉTICO – 9 a.m. (U-15) and 11 a.m. (U-17) – Arena Morro das Pedras7th round – 10/31 – ATLÉTICO x Coimbra – 9 a.m. (U-15) and 11 a.m. (U-17) – Sesc Venda Nova
Photo: Fabio Pinel / Atlético
Under head coach Rômulo Rodriguez, the U-15 Crias finished the first phase of the State Championship with the best record, earning 38 points — five more than the runner-up. The team went unbeaten in 14 matches: 12 wins and two draws. They also had the best attack and best defense of the first phase, with 41 goals scored and only four conceded. Forwards Moisés Caetano and Maurinho lead Galo's scoring in the competition, with 10 and nine goals, respectively.
#tico #head
5 hours ago
2,745 is a pretty substantial figure, and fortunately, it's one Roma will no longer need to dwell on. That was the number of days between their last Champions League game, against Porto in 2019, and Thursday's clash with Fenerbahçe upon their return to the competition.
Roma claimed a 1-1 draw away from home, going ahead via Bryan Cristante before Archie Brown equalised for the hosts.
So, what were the numbers that stood out from the game?
As in the number of Champions League debutants Roma had on the pitch, including three in their starting lineup. Of course, everyone except Cristante, a veteran of the 2018-19 season, was playing in the Champions League for Roma for the first time. But Gianluca Mancini, Manu Koné and Wesley were newcomers to the competition altogether. So were substitutes Niccolò Pisilli and Rodrigo Mora, who were aged 14 and 11 respectively when Roma last played a Champions League fixture.
As it happens, the last time Roma had five Champions League debutants in the same game was against Atlético Madrid in September 2017, when Alisson Becker, Bruno Peres, Juan Jesus, Grégoire Defrel and Lorenzo Pellegrini made their bows in Europe's premier competition. The only time Roma have had more Champions League debutants on the pitch in a single game was their first game in the competition in 2001.
#last #time #cristante #number
Roma claimed a 1-1 draw away from home, going ahead via Bryan Cristante before Archie Brown equalised for the hosts.
So, what were the numbers that stood out from the game?
As in the number of Champions League debutants Roma had on the pitch, including three in their starting lineup. Of course, everyone except Cristante, a veteran of the 2018-19 season, was playing in the Champions League for Roma for the first time. But Gianluca Mancini, Manu Koné and Wesley were newcomers to the competition altogether. So were substitutes Niccolò Pisilli and Rodrigo Mora, who were aged 14 and 11 respectively when Roma last played a Champions League fixture.
As it happens, the last time Roma had five Champions League debutants in the same game was against Atlético Madrid in September 2017, when Alisson Becker, Bruno Peres, Juan Jesus, Grégoire Defrel and Lorenzo Pellegrini made their bows in Europe's premier competition. The only time Roma have had more Champions League debutants on the pitch in a single game was their first game in the competition in 2001.
#last #time #cristante #number
17 hours ago
Pumas got their first home win of the Apertura 2026 after beating Leon by a 3-1 score. Pumas played a solid match and were able to recover after giving up the tying goal to get a solid three points and climb into the Liguilla zone with the victory. Leon battled hard but it wasn't enough. They will return home to host Atletico San Luis on Monday while Pumas will have a tough away match on Sunday when they visit Guadalajara to face off against Chivas.
The 1st half started with Pumas coming out with their usual starting 11 and without Cesar Huerta, who was expected to make his return to Pumas but was rule out because of an injury. Off a counter, Jordi Cortizo got off a left footed shot that would go just wide. Ismael Diaz got off a right footed shot from outside the area that went just wide. A left footed shot in the area from Cristian Calderon would go wide. Off a counter, Luciano Herrera would get off a left footed shot from outside the area that would be saved by Leon's goalkeeper, Oscar Garcia. Cristian Calderon had hurt himself when he got off his left footed shot and had to be subbed out because of that injury. Angel Azuaje was subbed in his place. In the middle of the half, an incredible rain storm started to fall which would probably have a big impact in the match. A cross into the area found Diaz, who whiffed on his close range shot and wasted a great opportunity. A great thru pass found Uriel Antuna but the ball was cleared off his feet by Leon's defense. After a cross into the area was bouncing in the area, Antuna would get off a right footed shot that went wide. From outside the area, Ivan Moreno got off a great right footed shot that forced a wonderful save from Pumas' goalkeeper, Keylor Navas. A great cross into the area by Rodrigo Lopez was beautifully headed by Juninho past Garcia to give Pumas the 1-0 lead. It was a deserved goal as Pumas had been the better team after a slow start. A cross into the area was headed from close range by Diaz but Navas made a good save. The halftime whistle blew and after a good first 45 minutes, Pumas took the deserved lead to their dressing room.
The 2nd half started with Leon subbing out Juan Pablo Dominguez for Diber Cambindo. A cross into the area was headed wide by Herrera. A cross into the area would get to a wide open Jose Alvarado, who got off a great half bicycle kick past Navas to score and tie the match at 1-1. It was a bad mistake by Pumas' defense in leaving Alvarado wide open but he made a great goal with the opportunity. Diaz got off a right footed shot in the area that went wide. Off a counter, the ball would eventually reach Herrera, whose right footed shot went wide. Leon subbed out Ivan Rodriguez for Rodrigo Echeverria. A lob into the area found a wide open Juninho but his right footed volley went wide in a terrible miss. Pumas subbed out Uriel Antuna for Alan Medina. Off a good run, the pass into the area found Cambindo, whose left footed shot went past Navas but hit the post. A
The 1st half started with Pumas coming out with their usual starting 11 and without Cesar Huerta, who was expected to make his return to Pumas but was rule out because of an injury. Off a counter, Jordi Cortizo got off a left footed shot that would go just wide. Ismael Diaz got off a right footed shot from outside the area that went just wide. A left footed shot in the area from Cristian Calderon would go wide. Off a counter, Luciano Herrera would get off a left footed shot from outside the area that would be saved by Leon's goalkeeper, Oscar Garcia. Cristian Calderon had hurt himself when he got off his left footed shot and had to be subbed out because of that injury. Angel Azuaje was subbed in his place. In the middle of the half, an incredible rain storm started to fall which would probably have a big impact in the match. A cross into the area found Diaz, who whiffed on his close range shot and wasted a great opportunity. A great thru pass found Uriel Antuna but the ball was cleared off his feet by Leon's defense. After a cross into the area was bouncing in the area, Antuna would get off a right footed shot that went wide. From outside the area, Ivan Moreno got off a great right footed shot that forced a wonderful save from Pumas' goalkeeper, Keylor Navas. A great cross into the area by Rodrigo Lopez was beautifully headed by Juninho past Garcia to give Pumas the 1-0 lead. It was a deserved goal as Pumas had been the better team after a slow start. A cross into the area was headed from close range by Diaz but Navas made a good save. The halftime whistle blew and after a good first 45 minutes, Pumas took the deserved lead to their dressing room.
The 2nd half started with Leon subbing out Juan Pablo Dominguez for Diber Cambindo. A cross into the area was headed wide by Herrera. A cross into the area would get to a wide open Jose Alvarado, who got off a great half bicycle kick past Navas to score and tie the match at 1-1. It was a bad mistake by Pumas' defense in leaving Alvarado wide open but he made a great goal with the opportunity. Diaz got off a right footed shot in the area that went wide. Off a counter, the ball would eventually reach Herrera, whose right footed shot went wide. Leon subbed out Ivan Rodriguez for Rodrigo Echeverria. A lob into the area found a wide open Juninho but his right footed volley went wide in a terrible miss. Pumas subbed out Uriel Antuna for Alan Medina. Off a good run, the pass into the area found Cambindo, whose left footed shot went past Navas but hit the post. A
20 hours ago
MEDELLÍN, Colombia (AP) — After a brief stint with MLS side Minnesota United in the United States, Colombia soccer international James Rodríguez decided to return home on Thursday.
Rodríguez, a former Real Madrid midfielder who was a free agent, will play for Atlético Nacional, the most decorated club that is based in Medellín, in his home nation.
Atlético Nacional did not disclose the financial details of the deal or the duration of it.
Rodríguez, 35, has bounced around since 2022, with stints with Olympiacos in Greece, Sao Paulo in Brazil, Rayo Vallecano in Spain, Club León in Mexico and Minnesota United in the MLS, where he played just six matches in the first semester of the year.
The midfielder helped lead Colombia to the Copa America final in 2024, the country's first such appearance in 23 years. He has 31 goals in 131 career international matches with Colombia.
#colombia #rodr #nacional
Rodríguez, a former Real Madrid midfielder who was a free agent, will play for Atlético Nacional, the most decorated club that is based in Medellín, in his home nation.
Atlético Nacional did not disclose the financial details of the deal or the duration of it.
Rodríguez, 35, has bounced around since 2022, with stints with Olympiacos in Greece, Sao Paulo in Brazil, Rayo Vallecano in Spain, Club León in Mexico and Minnesota United in the MLS, where he played just six matches in the first semester of the year.
The midfielder helped lead Colombia to the Copa America final in 2024, the country's first such appearance in 23 years. He has 31 goals in 131 career international matches with Colombia.
#colombia #rodr #nacional
0.00$ raised of 0.00$ goal
0 donations
0.00$
to go
21 hours ago
The close of the free-agent market caused a real media stir in the Liga BetPlay. The boards of the country's top clubs are rushing key negotiations ahead of the registration deadline set for September 11.
James Rodríguez is reportedly finalizing details in Medellín to undergo medical tests and sign with Atlético Nacional. Meanwhile, Juan Guillermo Cuadrado has reached a verbal agreement with Millonarios FC to take medicals in Bogotá and complete his return to the local league at age 38.
The day took an unexpected turn with the possible return of Jackson Martínez. At 39, and after retiring in 2020, the striker is considering a formal offer from Independiente Medellín with the approval of coach Amaranto Perea.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.
#return #rodr #meanwhile #juan
James Rodríguez is reportedly finalizing details in Medellín to undergo medical tests and sign with Atlético Nacional. Meanwhile, Juan Guillermo Cuadrado has reached a verbal agreement with Millonarios FC to take medicals in Bogotá and complete his return to the local league at age 38.
The day took an unexpected turn with the possible return of Jackson Martínez. At 39, and after retiring in 2020, the striker is considering a formal offer from Independiente Medellín with the approval of coach Amaranto Perea.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.
#return #rodr #meanwhile #juan
0.00$ raised of 0.00$ goal
0 donations
0.00$
to go
3 days ago
Chivas is enjoying a great moment in the Apertura 2026 and, after securing a convincing 3-0 victory over Atlético de San Luis in Jornada 7, the team has already set its sights on its next league challenge: a matchup against Pumas in Jornada 8.
Gabriel Milito's squad will return to training at Verde Valle to prepare throughout the week for the clash against the university side, which is scheduled to take place at Estadio AKRON, with the goal of maintaining its strong run of form and continuing to add points near the top of the Liga MX standings.
Here's the Guadalajara's work schedule, Chivahermano:
Tuesday, September 8Training at Verde Valle4:30 PM
Wednesday, September 9Training at Verde Valle9:30 AM
#jornada #september #pumas #valle
Gabriel Milito's squad will return to training at Verde Valle to prepare throughout the week for the clash against the university side, which is scheduled to take place at Estadio AKRON, with the goal of maintaining its strong run of form and continuing to add points near the top of the Liga MX standings.
Here's the Guadalajara's work schedule, Chivahermano:
Tuesday, September 8Training at Verde Valle4:30 PM
Wednesday, September 9Training at Verde Valle9:30 AM
#jornada #september #pumas #valle
3 days ago
Alexis Mac Allister has revealed that Liverpool told him the club were not in a position to renew his contract and that he had options to leave in the summer.
Mac Allister's current contract at Liverpool is set to expire in 2028 and discussions over a renewal have failed to reach an agreement.
The failed talks leave the Argentine in an uncertain situation, after teammates Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch signed new long-term deals.
Mac Allister has revealed that Liverpool told his agents that the club were 'not in a position to renew' and has expressed his disappointment at the outcome of the talks.
Speaking to the media ahead of Liverpool'sChampions League clash with Atletico Madrid, Mac Allister said it was 'sad' that renewal talks did not lead to fresh terms.
#allister
Mac Allister's current contract at Liverpool is set to expire in 2028 and discussions over a renewal have failed to reach an agreement.
The failed talks leave the Argentine in an uncertain situation, after teammates Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch signed new long-term deals.
Mac Allister has revealed that Liverpool told his agents that the club were 'not in a position to renew' and has expressed his disappointment at the outcome of the talks.
Speaking to the media ahead of Liverpool'sChampions League clash with Atletico Madrid, Mac Allister said it was 'sad' that renewal talks did not lead to fresh terms.
#allister
3 days ago
Liverpool's Champions League campaign begins at Anfield on Wednesday, with Atletico Madrid providing an immediate test for Andoni Iraola and a squad still adjusting to life under their new head coach.
Iraola arrives at his first European fixture with some momentum. Liverpool's 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town on Friday ended a run of two successive 2-2 draws, with Alexander Isak scoring twice and Cody Gakpo supplying both ****** ists. It was the sort of result that gives a new manager some breathing room, although Atletico Madrid will represent a very different proposition.
Alexis Mac Allister was the first Liverpool player to face the media at the AXA Training Centre on Tuesday, and inevitably, his future was one of the main talking points.
The Argentina international confirmed there had been a genuine possibility of leaving Liverpool during the summer, following uncertainty over a new contract.
"There was a chance, of course," Mac Allister said. "I received the news that the club wasn't in a position to offer me a new contract, which made me sad."
#atletico #allister #Liverpool
Iraola arrives at his first European fixture with some momentum. Liverpool's 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town on Friday ended a run of two successive 2-2 draws, with Alexander Isak scoring twice and Cody Gakpo supplying both ****** ists. It was the sort of result that gives a new manager some breathing room, although Atletico Madrid will represent a very different proposition.
Alexis Mac Allister was the first Liverpool player to face the media at the AXA Training Centre on Tuesday, and inevitably, his future was one of the main talking points.
The Argentina international confirmed there had been a genuine possibility of leaving Liverpool during the summer, following uncertainty over a new contract.
"There was a chance, of course," Mac Allister said. "I received the news that the club wasn't in a position to offer me a new contract, which made me sad."
#atletico #allister #Liverpool
4 days ago
Atlético de Madrid face Liverpool this Wednesday at 9 p.m., and they will do so without two attacking players.
The 24 players selected by Diego Pablo Simeone:
Sorloth, who is still injured, and Arnau Ortiz, through suspension, will miss the match.
The young Atlético forward misses out because of an old suspension dating back to his time playing in Poland.
Otherwise, Jonathan David, Cuti Romero and Julián Álvarez are all included in the squad as normal.
#players #suspension #simeone
The 24 players selected by Diego Pablo Simeone:
Sorloth, who is still injured, and Arnau Ortiz, through suspension, will miss the match.
The young Atlético forward misses out because of an old suspension dating back to his time playing in Poland.
Otherwise, Jonathan David, Cuti Romero and Julián Álvarez are all included in the squad as normal.
#players #suspension #simeone
4 days ago
Due to some sporadic runs of form and a very big helping hand from the footballing Gods, Liverpool found themselves qualifying for this season's Champions League and so the dream of more European nights at Anfield again became reality. For all of us Reds supporters and club it's the bare minimum requirement, and this writer has been luckily enough to have watched all six finals that Liverpool won, the first in 1977 when I was eight years old.
More importantly in the present moment, Wednesday evening is going to be the very first European game for head coach Andoni Iraola as head coach of any club, and let's hope that it will be even more than he could ever imagine because it's at Anfield and against one of the most difficult opponents in the Champions League in recent years in Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid.
Everyone involved in European football probably knows about those Famous European Nights at Anfield under the lights, but it's not all up to the supporters—the players will need to start in the right mood as they did against Ipswich, with intensity from the first whistle but unlike in that game the players won't be allowed to ease up until the final whistle is blown.
There is history between Liverpool and Atleti, with the Reds winning three of the seven times the clubs have faced off in the Champions League whilst Atletico have won two and then two draws between them. More than the match ups being fairly even there are the tough tactics of Simeone, who has a knack of getting under the skin of opposing managers as well his players being very physical in their play. It's going to be an interesting test for Iraola and the players but especially Liverpool's head coach as this will be his first experience of the Champions league and a congested fixture list.
"Big game, the first Champions League for me as a coach," Iraola noted during the post-Ipswich match interviews when he was asked about the approaching match against Atletico. "At Anfield, under the lights. I love to play at night."
#first
More importantly in the present moment, Wednesday evening is going to be the very first European game for head coach Andoni Iraola as head coach of any club, and let's hope that it will be even more than he could ever imagine because it's at Anfield and against one of the most difficult opponents in the Champions League in recent years in Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid.
Everyone involved in European football probably knows about those Famous European Nights at Anfield under the lights, but it's not all up to the supporters—the players will need to start in the right mood as they did against Ipswich, with intensity from the first whistle but unlike in that game the players won't be allowed to ease up until the final whistle is blown.
There is history between Liverpool and Atleti, with the Reds winning three of the seven times the clubs have faced off in the Champions League whilst Atletico have won two and then two draws between them. More than the match ups being fairly even there are the tough tactics of Simeone, who has a knack of getting under the skin of opposing managers as well his players being very physical in their play. It's going to be an interesting test for Iraola and the players but especially Liverpool's head coach as this will be his first experience of the Champions league and a congested fixture list.
"Big game, the first Champions League for me as a coach," Iraola noted during the post-Ipswich match interviews when he was asked about the approaching match against Atletico. "At Anfield, under the lights. I love to play at night."
#first
4 days ago
Lautaro Martinez has offered his support to Julian Alvarez after the Atletico Madrid forward's failed move to Barcelona, admitting that the situation surrounding his Argentina teammate has been difficult.
Alvarez remained at Atletico despite Barcelona's interest and the player's desire to make the move to Catalonia.
The Spanish transfer window eventually closed without an agreement being reached, leaving the 26-year-old to continue his career in Madrid.
With the transfer saga still attracting attention, Lautaro was asked about his international teammate ahead of Inter Milan's Champions League meeting with Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The Inter captain revealed that he had personally contacted Alvarez and made it clear that he was behind him during a complicated period.
#teammate #transfer
Alvarez remained at Atletico despite Barcelona's interest and the player's desire to make the move to Catalonia.
The Spanish transfer window eventually closed without an agreement being reached, leaving the 26-year-old to continue his career in Madrid.
With the transfer saga still attracting attention, Lautaro was asked about his international teammate ahead of Inter Milan's Champions League meeting with Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The Inter captain revealed that he had personally contacted Alvarez and made it clear that he was behind him during a complicated period.
#teammate #transfer
4 days ago
Barcelona look to continue their perfect start to the season and kick off a new European journey with a win as they welcome Dutch giants Feyenoord to Camp Nou for their Champions League league phase debut.
Here's how we think Hansi Flick will line up his troops for Wednesday's battle:
Barça cruised to a comfortable win against Valencia with Hansi Flick able to rest a few starters while the team didn't have to spend too much energy in the second half, so we are expecting a strong team once again for the European opener.
Eric Garcia broke his nose on Sunday and is suspended for this one due to his red card in Barça's elimination game against Atlético Madrid last season, so Jules Kounde is guaranteed to start at right-back. Pau Cubarsí will start at center-back and we think Andreas Christensen, who has been healthy and performed well to start the season, will be picked as his partner ahead of Gerard Martín.
Xavi Espart has played every second of football so far and João Cancelo didn't feature at all against Valencia, so we think the Portuguese will make his first start of the season at left-back to give Espart a chance to rest.
#think
Here's how we think Hansi Flick will line up his troops for Wednesday's battle:
Barça cruised to a comfortable win against Valencia with Hansi Flick able to rest a few starters while the team didn't have to spend too much energy in the second half, so we are expecting a strong team once again for the European opener.
Eric Garcia broke his nose on Sunday and is suspended for this one due to his red card in Barça's elimination game against Atlético Madrid last season, so Jules Kounde is guaranteed to start at right-back. Pau Cubarsí will start at center-back and we think Andreas Christensen, who has been healthy and performed well to start the season, will be picked as his partner ahead of Gerard Martín.
Xavi Espart has played every second of football so far and João Cancelo didn't feature at all against Valencia, so we think the Portuguese will make his first start of the season at left-back to give Espart a chance to rest.
#think
4 days ago
The decisive stage of the 2026 CONMEBOL Sudamericana quarterfinals is about to begin! This Tuesday (8), at 9:30 p.m., in Buenos Aires, Tricolor will face Boca Juniors (ARG) in the first leg.
São Paulo heads into the clash at La Bombonera on the back of two straight wins: they beat Red Bull Bragantino 2-1 and Atlético-MG 2-0, both at MorumBIS, in the Brazilian Championship.
Tonight's match will mark the reunion between the Brazilians and Argentines after nearly 19 years: the last game took place on September 26, 2007, and ended in a 1-0 win for São Paulo at MorumBIS in the CONMEBOL Sudamericana. With the goal scored by Aloísio at home, Tricolor knocked out Boca Juniors and secured a place in the quarterfinals of the competition. In the first leg, at La Bombonera, the opposition had won 2-1 — at that time, away goals were a tiebreaker.
There have been 20 matches between the two clubs in history, with seven wins for Tricolor, five draws, and eight victories for the Argentines. Each team has scored 29 goals in these meetings.
The teams have already faced each other seven times at La Bombonera, with two wins for São Paulo, one draw, and four wins for the home side. Tricolor won on October 10, 1995, by 3-2, in the Supercopa, and on January 25, 1961, by 5-1, in the South American Octagonal.
#wins #morumbis
São Paulo heads into the clash at La Bombonera on the back of two straight wins: they beat Red Bull Bragantino 2-1 and Atlético-MG 2-0, both at MorumBIS, in the Brazilian Championship.
Tonight's match will mark the reunion between the Brazilians and Argentines after nearly 19 years: the last game took place on September 26, 2007, and ended in a 1-0 win for São Paulo at MorumBIS in the CONMEBOL Sudamericana. With the goal scored by Aloísio at home, Tricolor knocked out Boca Juniors and secured a place in the quarterfinals of the competition. In the first leg, at La Bombonera, the opposition had won 2-1 — at that time, away goals were a tiebreaker.
There have been 20 matches between the two clubs in history, with seven wins for Tricolor, five draws, and eight victories for the Argentines. Each team has scored 29 goals in these meetings.
The teams have already faced each other seven times at La Bombonera, with two wins for São Paulo, one draw, and four wins for the home side. Tricolor won on October 10, 1995, by 3-2, in the Supercopa, and on January 25, 1961, by 5-1, in the South American Octagonal.
#wins #morumbis
5 days ago
Arsenal shelled out close to £200m on new signings during the summer transfer window but fell short of landing the elite forward they craved.
Former Manchester City goalscorer Julian Alvarez was on their radar but remains at Atletico Madrid, while the Gunners were also interested in Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, Paris St-Germain's Bradley Barcola and Vinicius Jr.
While Rogers opted for London rivals Chelsea, Barcola moved to Liverpool and Vinicius Jr has stayed at Real Madrid.
Yet reigning champions ***** nal have started this season as strongly as they finished 2025-26, when they celebrated their first Premier League ***** le for 22 years.
After wins over Coventry City and Aston Villa, they came from behind to beat big-spending Chelsea 2-1 in a thrilling derby on Sunday - thanks to goals from two familiar faces.
#arsenal #barcola
Former Manchester City goalscorer Julian Alvarez was on their radar but remains at Atletico Madrid, while the Gunners were also interested in Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, Paris St-Germain's Bradley Barcola and Vinicius Jr.
While Rogers opted for London rivals Chelsea, Barcola moved to Liverpool and Vinicius Jr has stayed at Real Madrid.
Yet reigning champions ***** nal have started this season as strongly as they finished 2025-26, when they celebrated their first Premier League ***** le for 22 years.
After wins over Coventry City and Aston Villa, they came from behind to beat big-spending Chelsea 2-1 in a thrilling derby on Sunday - thanks to goals from two familiar faces.
#arsenal #barcola
5 days ago
Barcelona's game against Valencia is set to kick off at Mestalla, and Hansi Flick has deployed one of the team's strongest lineups for the night.
With the UEFA Champions League coming up midweek, it is clear that the Barcelona manager wishes to test out his Gala XI in an official game, and the clash against Valencia is that big occasion.
Los Che, meanwhile, have also put up a formidable lineup although they are the underdogs by some distance at their own stadium.
Given the multiple upsets this week in La Liga including Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid losing, however, they will believe they can pull off an upset.
Valencia manager Carlos Corberan faced the media ahead of kickoff and spoke on the game that awaits his side and what he expects from Barcelona on the night.
#Barcelona #mestalla #hansi #uefa
With the UEFA Champions League coming up midweek, it is clear that the Barcelona manager wishes to test out his Gala XI in an official game, and the clash against Valencia is that big occasion.
Los Che, meanwhile, have also put up a formidable lineup although they are the underdogs by some distance at their own stadium.
Given the multiple upsets this week in La Liga including Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid losing, however, they will believe they can pull off an upset.
Valencia manager Carlos Corberan faced the media ahead of kickoff and spoke on the game that awaits his side and what he expects from Barcelona on the night.
#Barcelona #mestalla #hansi #uefa
6 days ago
Santos FC informs that ticket sales for the match against Atlético Mineiro, at Vila Belmiro, will begin this Saturday, the 5th. The match, valid for the CONMEBOL Sudamericana, will take place on Wednesday, September 9, at 7:00 p.m.
São Paulo State Law No. 18,159/2025 guarantees free admission to sporting events for children under 2 years old, who must remain on their guardian's lap. It is only necessary to issue a free ticket for the child, ensuring coverage under the event's insurance policy during the match. There is no free admission for seniors or people with disabilities.
Sales Start Date (web)Saturday (09/05) – 7:00 p.m. – Members onlySaturday (09/05) – 11:00 p.m. – General public (Santos Mais Popular)
Priority 1: Rating (five stars) – 7:00 p.m. – 09/05Priority 2: Rating (four stars) – 8:00 p.m. – 09/05Priority 3: Rating (three stars) – 9:00 p.m. – 09/05Priority 4: Rating (two stars) – 10:00 p.m. – 09/05Priority 5: General public (Santos Mais Popular) – 11:00 p.m. – 09/05
Princesa Isabel Terrace (P19) (away fans) – ingressos.santosfc.com.brFull price: R$80Half price: R$40
#rating #match #free
São Paulo State Law No. 18,159/2025 guarantees free admission to sporting events for children under 2 years old, who must remain on their guardian's lap. It is only necessary to issue a free ticket for the child, ensuring coverage under the event's insurance policy during the match. There is no free admission for seniors or people with disabilities.
Sales Start Date (web)Saturday (09/05) – 7:00 p.m. – Members onlySaturday (09/05) – 11:00 p.m. – General public (Santos Mais Popular)
Priority 1: Rating (five stars) – 7:00 p.m. – 09/05Priority 2: Rating (four stars) – 8:00 p.m. – 09/05Priority 3: Rating (three stars) – 9:00 p.m. – 09/05Priority 4: Rating (two stars) – 10:00 p.m. – 09/05Priority 5: General public (Santos Mais Popular) – 11:00 p.m. – 09/05
Princesa Isabel Terrace (P19) (away fans) – ingressos.santosfc.com.brFull price: R$80Half price: R$40
#rating #match #free
6 days ago
Through its effectiveness, game management and composure to hold onto the result, Chivas defeated Atlético San Luis 3-0 this afternoon at Estadio Libertad Financiera in Jornada 7 of the Apertura 2026. The team coached by Gabriel Milito has found consistency at the start of the second third of the tournament, reaching 14 points and temporarily moving into second place.
Guadalajara came out firing, as it already had a significant 0-2 lead before the 10-minute mark, thanks to the mobility of its players and the efficiency of its attackers in front of goal. Of course, this allowed the Rojiblancos to take control of the match.
With the support of the Chivahermanos in San Luis Potosí, who never stopped cheering, the Guadalajara side was able to manage Atlético's attempts to respond. At the same time, there was never a real sense of danger in Chiverío's defensive area, which in turn allowed Guadalajara to find the definitive goal.
Next week, Chivas will return home to host Pumas in J8 of AP26. The match will take place on Sunday, September 13, at 7:07 PM.
The goals
#chivas #second #goal
Guadalajara came out firing, as it already had a significant 0-2 lead before the 10-minute mark, thanks to the mobility of its players and the efficiency of its attackers in front of goal. Of course, this allowed the Rojiblancos to take control of the match.
With the support of the Chivahermanos in San Luis Potosí, who never stopped cheering, the Guadalajara side was able to manage Atlético's attempts to respond. At the same time, there was never a real sense of danger in Chiverío's defensive area, which in turn allowed Guadalajara to find the definitive goal.
Next week, Chivas will return home to host Pumas in J8 of AP26. The match will take place on Sunday, September 13, at 7:07 PM.
The goals
#chivas #second #goal
6 days ago
After the 2-0 victory over Atlético-MG this Saturday (5) at MorumBIS, in a match valid for the 26th round of the Brasileirão, Iago spoke in the mixed zone.
The scorer of São Paulo's second goal in the match, the player celebrated the positive result in front of the São Paulo fans.
"I can only thank God for this moment. The team was already working very hard during the match, always chasing the win," the player said.
The number 12 also thanked the support of the more than 39,000 São Paulo fans present at MorumBIS tonight.
"Playing at home with the support of the fans is an even greater motivation for us, and I can only be thankful, because everything is working out, we're managing to come away with the win. I can only thank the support of the fans, which is the most important thing, because it gives us extra motivation out there on the pitch, and I want to say that I'm happy about the victory as well," he concluded.
#only #support #paulo #working
The scorer of São Paulo's second goal in the match, the player celebrated the positive result in front of the São Paulo fans.
"I can only thank God for this moment. The team was already working very hard during the match, always chasing the win," the player said.
The number 12 also thanked the support of the more than 39,000 São Paulo fans present at MorumBIS tonight.
"Playing at home with the support of the fans is an even greater motivation for us, and I can only be thankful, because everything is working out, we're managing to come away with the win. I can only thank the support of the fans, which is the most important thing, because it gives us extra motivation out there on the pitch, and I want to say that I'm happy about the victory as well," he concluded.
#only #support #paulo #working
6 days ago
The Cantera Rojiblanca enjoyed a perfect Saturday, as both Guadalajara's Sub-21 and Sub-19 teams earned three points on the road against Atlético de San Luis in Jornada 7 of the Apertura 2026. The action began with the Sub-21, who put together a strong first half and ultimately secured a 3-1 victory over the Potosí side, while the Sub-19 closed out the day with another Rojiblanco win, defeating the tuneros 2-0.
That's why we've put together all the details from these 2 matches below:
Sub-21 secures 3-1 victory!
Guadalajara came out with great intensity and quickly found the breakthrough. Just 6 minutes into the match, Raúl Martínez opened the scoring to put the Rebaño in front. The Rojiblanco side continued creating chances and doubled its lead in the 31st minute through Gael García.
The Rojiblanco advantage continued to grow, and in the 39th minute, Hugo Mata found the back of the net to make it 3-0 before halftime. Facing that deficit, Atlético de San Luis responded in the second half and pulled one back in the 51st minute through Jesús Borjas. However, Guadalajara held onto its advantage and ultimately secured a 3-1 victory.
#rojiblanco
That's why we've put together all the details from these 2 matches below:
Sub-21 secures 3-1 victory!
Guadalajara came out with great intensity and quickly found the breakthrough. Just 6 minutes into the match, Raúl Martínez opened the scoring to put the Rebaño in front. The Rojiblanco side continued creating chances and doubled its lead in the 31st minute through Gael García.
The Rojiblanco advantage continued to grow, and in the 39th minute, Hugo Mata found the back of the net to make it 3-0 before halftime. Facing that deficit, Atlético de San Luis responded in the second half and pulled one back in the 51st minute through Jesús Borjas. However, Guadalajara held onto its advantage and ultimately secured a 3-1 victory.
#rojiblanco
6 days ago
Bayern Munich star Jonathan Tah has taken to social media this weekend, to send a message of congratulations the way of new Barcelona youngster Mikael Baza.
Baza, for those not familiar with his name, is fresh off putting pen to paper on contract terms in Catalunya's capital. Identified as a transfer target on the part of the Barcelona brass owing to his exploits in the youth ranks of German outfit Hamburg, Deco and co. launched a late-window ***** ault on his signature.
From here, the 16-year-old was unveiled as a Blaugrana player this past Monday, set to link up with Barca Atlètic for the season ahead.
And as alluded to above, Baza has since received a congratulatory message from a leading German international, namely Bayern Munich's Jonathan Tah.
Stopper Tah is the older cousin of Baza, and therefore took to social media on Saturday to reveal his delight for the German youth international. In a post on his official Instagram account, Tah unveiled a photo of Baza in Barcelona colours, accompanied by the caption:
#german #bayern #unveiled
Baza, for those not familiar with his name, is fresh off putting pen to paper on contract terms in Catalunya's capital. Identified as a transfer target on the part of the Barcelona brass owing to his exploits in the youth ranks of German outfit Hamburg, Deco and co. launched a late-window ***** ault on his signature.
From here, the 16-year-old was unveiled as a Blaugrana player this past Monday, set to link up with Barca Atlètic for the season ahead.
And as alluded to above, Baza has since received a congratulatory message from a leading German international, namely Bayern Munich's Jonathan Tah.
Stopper Tah is the older cousin of Baza, and therefore took to social media on Saturday to reveal his delight for the German youth international. In a post on his official Instagram account, Tah unveiled a photo of Baza in Barcelona colours, accompanied by the caption:
#german #bayern #unveiled
6 days ago
With their sights set on securing their fourth win of the tournament, Chivas are ready for another Apertura 2026 challenge. Guadalajara are already in the capital of San Luis Potosí, where they will visit Atlético de San Luis at Estadio Libertad Financiera in a Jornada 7 matchup.
Ahead of this game, Gabriel Milito and his coaching staff have selected the 22 players who make up the rojiblanca squad, with an important return to the Rebaño standing out and generating plenty of anticipation among Chivahermanos.
What are the changes to the squad?
Daniel Aguirre has been included in the squad and could make an appearance against the Potosinos.
Miguel Gómez experienced intense pain during one of the training sessions. After undergoing the corresponding imaging studies, it was confirmed that he has suffered a muscle injury. His return to competition will depend on his recovery.
#squad #return #estadio
Ahead of this game, Gabriel Milito and his coaching staff have selected the 22 players who make up the rojiblanca squad, with an important return to the Rebaño standing out and generating plenty of anticipation among Chivahermanos.
What are the changes to the squad?
Daniel Aguirre has been included in the squad and could make an appearance against the Potosinos.
Miguel Gómez experienced intense pain during one of the training sessions. After undergoing the corresponding imaging studies, it was confirmed that he has suffered a muscle injury. His return to competition will depend on his recovery.
#squad #return #estadio
6 days ago
Going into the summer transfer window as Premier League champions, hope sprang eternal for ***** nal.
An opportunity to capitalise, encouraged by a sense at Emirates Stadium that their competitors were in transition because of managerial instability.
If ever there was a moment to strike in recruitment, this was it.
The plans were ambitious: a shortlist with more than 20 players on it. They were targets at Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, even at Chelsea and Tottenham.
But as the window shut on Tuesday night, you could not escape the sense of unfulfillment - certainly from a section of supporters.
#emirates
An opportunity to capitalise, encouraged by a sense at Emirates Stadium that their competitors were in transition because of managerial instability.
If ever there was a moment to strike in recruitment, this was it.
The plans were ambitious: a shortlist with more than 20 players on it. They were targets at Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, even at Chelsea and Tottenham.
But as the window shut on Tuesday night, you could not escape the sense of unfulfillment - certainly from a section of supporters.
#emirates
6 days ago
Are we really doing this all over again?
Atlético Madrid's desperately poor 3-0 loss to Athletic Club in at San Mamés brought up familiar ghosts from seasons gone by, leaving fans questioning if anything has actually changed ahead of Wednesday's UEFA Champions League trip to Anfield.
A lack of intensity away from home and a vulnerable left side saw Atleti rue missed chances in the first half, before completely capitulating immediately from the restart in the second.
Here are Into the Calderón's key takeaways from this first loss of the 2026/27 season.
Atleti are making me sound like a broken record with no other ways of **** ysing one of their matches at this point. For the best part of two seasons, I have been using the **** ogy of a pool table on uneven ground to describe the way that the entirety of the team's play seems to gently drift over the right side of the pitch, and it's getting tiring.
#atleti #first #club
Atlético Madrid's desperately poor 3-0 loss to Athletic Club in at San Mamés brought up familiar ghosts from seasons gone by, leaving fans questioning if anything has actually changed ahead of Wednesday's UEFA Champions League trip to Anfield.
A lack of intensity away from home and a vulnerable left side saw Atleti rue missed chances in the first half, before completely capitulating immediately from the restart in the second.
Here are Into the Calderón's key takeaways from this first loss of the 2026/27 season.
Atleti are making me sound like a broken record with no other ways of **** ysing one of their matches at this point. For the best part of two seasons, I have been using the **** ogy of a pool table on uneven ground to describe the way that the entirety of the team's play seems to gently drift over the right side of the pitch, and it's getting tiring.
#atleti #first #club
6 days ago
Small-town club Elversberg continued a dream start to its first-ever Bundesliga season with another upset win, beating Borussia Moenchengladbach 4-3 with a stoppage-time winner on Saturday.
In Spain, Athletic Bilbao struck three times in the second half to beat Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid 3-0, while Erling Haaland led Manchester City to another victory in the Premier League.
From a town of just 13,000 people, Elversberg stunned another former champion after its win over Bayer Leverkusen last week.
This time, Elversberg did it without coach Vincent Wagner, who was sent off at halftime, only for Maurice Krattenmacher to score the dramatic late winner.
Wagner will miss hosting champion Bayern Munich next week.
#week #small
In Spain, Athletic Bilbao struck three times in the second half to beat Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid 3-0, while Erling Haaland led Manchester City to another victory in the Premier League.
From a town of just 13,000 people, Elversberg stunned another former champion after its win over Bayer Leverkusen last week.
This time, Elversberg did it without coach Vincent Wagner, who was sent off at halftime, only for Maurice Krattenmacher to score the dramatic late winner.
Wagner will miss hosting champion Bayern Munich next week.
#week #small
6 days ago
Jonathan David has joined Atletico Madrid on loan from Juventus, but the striker has already faced criticism from supporters of the Spanish club over his weight.
The forward was one of the players Juventus wanted to move on this summer after just one season at the club, having failed to prove that he was the right signing for the Old Lady. David wanted to remain in Turin even if his opportunities were limited, but Juventus eventually found a solution.
The Bianconeri were also fortunate to find Atletico Madrid willing to take one of their players on loan for the second summer running. Last season, the Spanish side took Nicolas Gonzalez on loan, and his spell in Spain proved successful.
Juventus will hope David can follow Gonzalez's example and produce a strong campaign in Spain. The Bianconeri would like the striker to perform well enough to earn a permanent move away from Turin, which would allow them to finally end his time at the club.
David now has an important opportunity to rebuild his reputation at Atletico. With his future at Juventus already uncertain, making an impact during his loan spell could be crucial to determining where he plays next.
#atletico #turin #spain
The forward was one of the players Juventus wanted to move on this summer after just one season at the club, having failed to prove that he was the right signing for the Old Lady. David wanted to remain in Turin even if his opportunities were limited, but Juventus eventually found a solution.
The Bianconeri were also fortunate to find Atletico Madrid willing to take one of their players on loan for the second summer running. Last season, the Spanish side took Nicolas Gonzalez on loan, and his spell in Spain proved successful.
Juventus will hope David can follow Gonzalez's example and produce a strong campaign in Spain. The Bianconeri would like the striker to perform well enough to earn a permanent move away from Turin, which would allow them to finally end his time at the club.
David now has an important opportunity to rebuild his reputation at Atletico. With his future at Juventus already uncertain, making an impact during his loan spell could be crucial to determining where he plays next.
#atletico #turin #spain
7 days ago
By getting past Internacional, Grêmio qualified for the 16th Copa do Brasil semifinal in its historyCredits: LUCAS UEBEL/GREMIO FBPA
The 2026 Copa do Brasil finalized its semifinalists this week. Grêmio, who eliminated rivals Internacional with a 3-1 victory this Thursday (3), will face Atlético-MG, who beat Cruzeiro on Tuesday (1). On the other side, Palmeiras, who got past Santos on Wednesday (2), will take on Vasco, who eliminated Vitória, also on Wednesday.
The Tricolor gaúcho will make its 16th appearance in a Copa do Brasil semifinal and has now matched Flamengo's record, as Flamengo has also reached this stage of the competition 16 times since it began in 1989. Vasco, now in its third straight semifinal, has 11 semifinals in the tournament. Palmeiras, whose last semifinal appearance came during its 2020 ******* le-winning campaign, will play in its 10th semifinal. Atlético-MG, champions in 2014 and 2021, will contest their seventh semifinal.
Clubs with the most Copa do Brasil semifinal appearances (1989-2026):
16 – Grêmio (1989, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2023 and 2026)
#internacional #vasco #eliminated
The 2026 Copa do Brasil finalized its semifinalists this week. Grêmio, who eliminated rivals Internacional with a 3-1 victory this Thursday (3), will face Atlético-MG, who beat Cruzeiro on Tuesday (1). On the other side, Palmeiras, who got past Santos on Wednesday (2), will take on Vasco, who eliminated Vitória, also on Wednesday.
The Tricolor gaúcho will make its 16th appearance in a Copa do Brasil semifinal and has now matched Flamengo's record, as Flamengo has also reached this stage of the competition 16 times since it began in 1989. Vasco, now in its third straight semifinal, has 11 semifinals in the tournament. Palmeiras, whose last semifinal appearance came during its 2020 ******* le-winning campaign, will play in its 10th semifinal. Atlético-MG, champions in 2014 and 2021, will contest their seventh semifinal.
Clubs with the most Copa do Brasil semifinal appearances (1989-2026):
16 – Grêmio (1989, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2023 and 2026)
#internacional #vasco #eliminated
7 days ago
In a recent report, journalist Mark Brus mentioned that Manchester City are locked in a three-way battle for Atletico Madrid winger Alex Baena. It is believed that the Mancunian giants would have to rival Newcastle United and Aston Villa in the race to land the Spanish wide player.
Baena has made an excellent start to this campaign as he put in a few productive displays for Atletico Madrid in the final third. The 25-year-old has scored three goals and grabbed one ***** ist in three appearances for Diego Simeone's side in the league.
The Spanish talent is currently among the most talented wingers in La Liga. Hence, Man City would do well to lure him to the Etihad Stadium next year.
His current contract at the Madrid club will run out in the summer of 2030, which could make it tough for the Mancunian giants to snap him up on the cheap this January or at the end of the campaign.
MADRID, SPAIN – AUGUST 19: Alex Baena of Atletico de Madrid celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Atletico de Madrid and Malaga CF at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on August 19, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
#baena #three #city #mancunian
Baena has made an excellent start to this campaign as he put in a few productive displays for Atletico Madrid in the final third. The 25-year-old has scored three goals and grabbed one ***** ist in three appearances for Diego Simeone's side in the league.
The Spanish talent is currently among the most talented wingers in La Liga. Hence, Man City would do well to lure him to the Etihad Stadium next year.
His current contract at the Madrid club will run out in the summer of 2030, which could make it tough for the Mancunian giants to snap him up on the cheap this January or at the end of the campaign.
MADRID, SPAIN – AUGUST 19: Alex Baena of Atletico de Madrid celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Atletico de Madrid and Malaga CF at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on August 19, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
#baena #three #city #mancunian
8 days ago
Julián Álvarez ended the summer window still on Atlético Madrid's books, but that outcome has settled almost nothing. Barcelona spent the entire market chasing the Argentine, Atlético publicly rejected the pursuit in increasingly hostile terms, and ******* nal explored an offer of their own while the whole thing threatened to boil over. The question now isn't whether the saga is over – it plainly isn't – but which of the three forces at play, Atlético's contractual leverage, Barcelona's valuation, or Álvarez's own stated preference, actually decides what happens next.
Álvarez himself gave the clearest signal of intent back in June, telling ESPN after Argentina's World Cup win over Austria that a transfer to Barcelona was the best thing for everyone and that he wanted to fulfil his dream. Those words were music to Joan Laporta's ears and poison to Atlético's dressing room. Everything that has followed, including deadline day passing without a deal, sits downstream of that one public admission.
Álvarez's Atlético contract runs until June 2030 and carries a release clause of around €500 million – a figure so far beyond market reality that it functions purely as leverage, not a genuine asking price. Barcelona say they made a €100 million bid; Atlético sources initially denied receiving any offer at all before later confirming one had arrived, structured across six yearly instalments and worth that same €100 million.
On July 30, with the dispute already curdling, Atlético reported Barcelona to the Spanish Football Federation over their pursuit of the player. No public update from the federation had followed by the time The Athletic's reconstruction of the saga was published. Álvarez remained at the Metropolitano when the window shut, and reports suggest he is expected to stay at Atlético at least until the January window reopens the conversation.
Before the summer even began, senior Atlético sources indicated the club would let Álvarez leave for €150 million provided a deal closed by July 20. That deadline passed with no agreement, and Atlético's position hardened dramatically. By late June, chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín was drawing a line that had nothing to do with valuation gaps.
#window #federation #summer #nothing
Álvarez himself gave the clearest signal of intent back in June, telling ESPN after Argentina's World Cup win over Austria that a transfer to Barcelona was the best thing for everyone and that he wanted to fulfil his dream. Those words were music to Joan Laporta's ears and poison to Atlético's dressing room. Everything that has followed, including deadline day passing without a deal, sits downstream of that one public admission.
Álvarez's Atlético contract runs until June 2030 and carries a release clause of around €500 million – a figure so far beyond market reality that it functions purely as leverage, not a genuine asking price. Barcelona say they made a €100 million bid; Atlético sources initially denied receiving any offer at all before later confirming one had arrived, structured across six yearly instalments and worth that same €100 million.
On July 30, with the dispute already curdling, Atlético reported Barcelona to the Spanish Football Federation over their pursuit of the player. No public update from the federation had followed by the time The Athletic's reconstruction of the saga was published. Álvarez remained at the Metropolitano when the window shut, and reports suggest he is expected to stay at Atlético at least until the January window reopens the conversation.
Before the summer even began, senior Atlético sources indicated the club would let Álvarez leave for €150 million provided a deal closed by July 20. That deadline passed with no agreement, and Atlético's position hardened dramatically. By late June, chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín was drawing a line that had nothing to do with valuation gaps.
#window #federation #summer #nothing
8 days ago
3
Manchester United Women have brought to an end an eventful transfer window.
The Red Devils made a significant change at the start of August, with Marc Skinner departing his role as head coach and Eva Olid replacing him.
Before this movement in August, however, United had already brought in young defender Andrea Medina from Spanish club Atletico Madrid.
United then brought in experienced Leicester City goalkeeper Janina Leitzig as back-up for Phallon Tullis-Joyce in goal.
#brought #august #women #andrea
Manchester United Women have brought to an end an eventful transfer window.
The Red Devils made a significant change at the start of August, with Marc Skinner departing his role as head coach and Eva Olid replacing him.
Before this movement in August, however, United had already brought in young defender Andrea Medina from Spanish club Atletico Madrid.
United then brought in experienced Leicester City goalkeeper Janina Leitzig as back-up for Phallon Tullis-Joyce in goal.
#brought #august #women #andrea
