2 hours ago
The transfer market has been largely at a standstill this summer, because with the need to balance the books, Serie A clubs find they must sell before signing new players.
It is hardly a secret that the budgets of the Italian teams pale in insignificance to the Premier League resources, where even newly promoted clubs can out-bid the biggest Calcio giants.
This all means that when they do come to challenging for talent on the transfer market, the focus is on selling in order to fund the reinforcements, so there has to be money coming in before it can go out.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MAY 23: Cristian Chivu head coach of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and FC Internazionale at Renato Dall'Ara Stadium on May 23, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
There are exceptions, as Como are bank-rolled by rich owners and their rapid rise to the top allows for some leeway before the UEFA Financial Fair Play rules kick in.
#internazionale
It is hardly a secret that the budgets of the Italian teams pale in insignificance to the Premier League resources, where even newly promoted clubs can out-bid the biggest Calcio giants.
This all means that when they do come to challenging for talent on the transfer market, the focus is on selling in order to fund the reinforcements, so there has to be money coming in before it can go out.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MAY 23: Cristian Chivu head coach of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and FC Internazionale at Renato Dall'Ara Stadium on May 23, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
There are exceptions, as Como are bank-rolled by rich owners and their rapid rise to the top allows for some leeway before the UEFA Financial Fair Play rules kick in.
#internazionale
10 hours ago
All streaks must eventually come to an end. Blue Jays 3 Astros 1 For Houston, their 6-game run might be history, but a new chapter has officially begun. A few hours prior to Monday's trade deadline, Houston would acquire Daulton Varsho in an effort to shore up their outfield production. Varsho would seize the moment, paying immediate dividends in the first inning. In some ways, it was only fitting that Nathan Lukes would start the night flying out to Daulton, and then in his Astros debut at the plate, he'd reach on a single to right field.
In the top of the second, Alejandro Kirk started the scoring with a solo shot to left field. That made the score 1-0. In the fourth, Toronto would increase their lead after a pair of hits from Kazuma Okamoto and George Springer, combined with an error from Taylor Trammell. That combination of events made things 3-0.
Houston would have their chances early but failed to capitalize. In their first and second innings they'd have multiple runners on base, but Christian Walker and Jeremy Pena each struck out swinging, stranding a pair of runners.
Cristian Javier would provide a quality start. Javier would go 6 innings and allow just 3 runs while scattering 7 hits. In the 7th inning, Tatsuya Imai would make his debut out of the bullpen and pitch three scoreless innings, at one point, striking out five in a row for an impressive relief outing.
In the bottom of the 6th, Houston would load the bases. They'd score their first and only run on Jeremy Pena's RBI single which brought in Yanier Diaz. In the frame, Yordan Alvarez would be intentionally walked for the 23rd time this season. The Astros all-time record is 27 free passes, which Jeff Bagwell registered back in 1997.
#astros #varsho #javier #they 'd
In the top of the second, Alejandro Kirk started the scoring with a solo shot to left field. That made the score 1-0. In the fourth, Toronto would increase their lead after a pair of hits from Kazuma Okamoto and George Springer, combined with an error from Taylor Trammell. That combination of events made things 3-0.
Houston would have their chances early but failed to capitalize. In their first and second innings they'd have multiple runners on base, but Christian Walker and Jeremy Pena each struck out swinging, stranding a pair of runners.
Cristian Javier would provide a quality start. Javier would go 6 innings and allow just 3 runs while scattering 7 hits. In the 7th inning, Tatsuya Imai would make his debut out of the bullpen and pitch three scoreless innings, at one point, striking out five in a row for an impressive relief outing.
In the bottom of the 6th, Houston would load the bases. They'd score their first and only run on Jeremy Pena's RBI single which brought in Yanier Diaz. In the frame, Yordan Alvarez would be intentionally walked for the 23rd time this season. The Astros all-time record is 27 free passes, which Jeff Bagwell registered back in 1997.
#astros #varsho #javier #they 'd
11 hours ago
Having traded away a slew of players ahead of the trade deadline earlier this evening, the Mets are set to call up six players, per Will Sammon: Dedniel Núñez, Jefry Yan, Nate Lavender, Chayce McDermott, Xzavion Curry, and Cristian Pache. The team has 21 players on its active roster at the time of this writing, and with Curry having just been optioned to Triple-A Syracuse on Friday.
Núñez had Tommy John surgery last July, and he's been pitching in the minors on a rehab ***** ignment. In 13.0 innings, most of which have been with Syracuse, he has a 4.15 ERA and a 3.81 FIP. In 44.2 major league innings before his elbow injury, he had a 2.82 ERA and a 2.62 FIP.
Yan is a 29-year-old who took a long break from baseball in the late 2010s, but he'll be making his major league debut whenever he appears in a game. He's been in the Mets' organization since the start of the 2026 season, and he's had an outstanding 43.5% strikeout rate and a somewhat staggering 15.8% walk rate with a 3.24 ERA and a 2.64 FIP in 41.2 innings between his time in Double-A Binghamton and Triple-A Syracuse. He's known for his eccentric strikeout celebrations.
Lavender, a left-handed reliever, has been in the Mets' system since the team drafted him in 2021. He was limited to just 7.0 innings in 2024 and missed the entirety of the 2025 season because of an injury. He's thrown 43.0 innings in the minors this year with a 3.77 ERA and a 2.78 FIP. He, too, will be making his major league debut when he first appears.
McDermott is a 27-year-old right-handed reliever who came to the Mets when they traded minor league catcher Ben Rortvedt back to the Dodgers today. He's thrown a total of 15.0 major league innings with the Orioles and Dodgers and has a 12.00 ERA and an 8.74 FIP. He has a 4.55 ERA and a 4.51 FIP in 31.2 innings in Triple-A this year.
#players
Núñez had Tommy John surgery last July, and he's been pitching in the minors on a rehab ***** ignment. In 13.0 innings, most of which have been with Syracuse, he has a 4.15 ERA and a 3.81 FIP. In 44.2 major league innings before his elbow injury, he had a 2.82 ERA and a 2.62 FIP.
Yan is a 29-year-old who took a long break from baseball in the late 2010s, but he'll be making his major league debut whenever he appears in a game. He's been in the Mets' organization since the start of the 2026 season, and he's had an outstanding 43.5% strikeout rate and a somewhat staggering 15.8% walk rate with a 3.24 ERA and a 2.64 FIP in 41.2 innings between his time in Double-A Binghamton and Triple-A Syracuse. He's known for his eccentric strikeout celebrations.
Lavender, a left-handed reliever, has been in the Mets' system since the team drafted him in 2021. He was limited to just 7.0 innings in 2024 and missed the entirety of the 2025 season because of an injury. He's thrown 43.0 innings in the minors this year with a 3.77 ERA and a 2.78 FIP. He, too, will be making his major league debut when he first appears.
McDermott is a 27-year-old right-handed reliever who came to the Mets when they traded minor league catcher Ben Rortvedt back to the Dodgers today. He's thrown a total of 15.0 major league innings with the Orioles and Dodgers and has a 12.00 ERA and an 8.74 FIP. He has a 4.55 ERA and a 4.51 FIP in 31.2 innings in Triple-A this year.
#players
14 hours ago
TONIGHT'S GAME: The first-place Houston Astros (58-55), winners of six straight, will open a three-game series with the Toronto Blue Jays (52-60 tonight at Daikin Park.
RHP Cristian Javier (1-1, 7.17 ERA) will get the start for the Astros opposite the RHP Shane Bieber (2-2, 5.74 ERA) and the Blue Jays.
ABOUT JAVIER: RHP Cristian Javier is making his fifth start of the season and his second since returning from the IL in early July. He's primarily pitched out of the bullpen since his return, making four relief appearances and a spot start. Javier earned tonight's start thanks to his last outing on July 27 at LAA, when he tossed 5.0 scoreless innings with seven strikeouts in relief.
WINNING WAYS: The Astros have won six straight games, which is their longest winning streak since they won eight straight from Aug. 6-14, 2024. The Astros have also won 11 of their last 12 games. The Astros are now three games over .500, their first time at that mark since being 6-3 following their ninth game of the season on April 4.
THE TURNAROUND: After a slow start to the season, the Astros are 38-24 since May 22, which ties as the best record in the AL in that span. On that date, the Astros were 20-31, 11 games under, which is their low water mark for the season.
#games #blue
RHP Cristian Javier (1-1, 7.17 ERA) will get the start for the Astros opposite the RHP Shane Bieber (2-2, 5.74 ERA) and the Blue Jays.
ABOUT JAVIER: RHP Cristian Javier is making his fifth start of the season and his second since returning from the IL in early July. He's primarily pitched out of the bullpen since his return, making four relief appearances and a spot start. Javier earned tonight's start thanks to his last outing on July 27 at LAA, when he tossed 5.0 scoreless innings with seven strikeouts in relief.
WINNING WAYS: The Astros have won six straight games, which is their longest winning streak since they won eight straight from Aug. 6-14, 2024. The Astros have also won 11 of their last 12 games. The Astros are now three games over .500, their first time at that mark since being 6-3 following their ninth game of the season on April 4.
THE TURNAROUND: After a slow start to the season, the Astros are 38-24 since May 22, which ties as the best record in the AL in that span. On that date, the Astros were 20-31, 11 games under, which is their low water mark for the season.
#games #blue
2 days ago
The second stage of the Internazionale Summer Tour is underway, with the Nerazzurri having completed their first training session in Perth. Fresh from their victory over Manchester City, the squad took to the training pitch in the late Australian afternoon under the guidance of Cristian Chivu and his coaching staff as preparations continue for the next fixture of the tour. Inter's next challenge will be the Milan Derby, with the Nerazzurri set to face AC Milan in Perth.
#Perth #internazionale #fresh #manchester
#Perth #internazionale #fresh #manchester
2 days ago
Inter and Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly 'reached a verbal agreement' over the transfer of Argentine defender Cristian Romero. According to ESPN Argentina via Calciomercato, Spurs have accepted the Serie A champions' €40 million bid for their captain.
Despite completing the signing of John Stones, who left Manchester City as a free agent at the end of last season, Inter are looking to add another center-back to Cristian Chivu's star-studded squad. Indeed, the Nerazzurri have parted ways with three defenders this summer and must reinforce their depleted backline.
Francesco Acerbi, Matteo Darmian, and Stefan de Vrij are now part of the club's history. On the bright side, Inter have tied Yann Bisseck down to a new long-term contract and are seemingly set to keep Alessandro Bastoni. Moreover, they've purchased Manuel Akanji after an impressive season-long loan.
However, they want to sign another top-class defender.
Romero has gone from strength to strength since leaving Serie A for Tottenham in 2021. Over the past five years, the 28-year-old has established himself as one of the most dependable center-backs in Europe's top-five leagues, let alone the Premier League.
#cristian
Despite completing the signing of John Stones, who left Manchester City as a free agent at the end of last season, Inter are looking to add another center-back to Cristian Chivu's star-studded squad. Indeed, the Nerazzurri have parted ways with three defenders this summer and must reinforce their depleted backline.
Francesco Acerbi, Matteo Darmian, and Stefan de Vrij are now part of the club's history. On the bright side, Inter have tied Yann Bisseck down to a new long-term contract and are seemingly set to keep Alessandro Bastoni. Moreover, they've purchased Manuel Akanji after an impressive season-long loan.
However, they want to sign another top-class defender.
Romero has gone from strength to strength since leaving Serie A for Tottenham in 2021. Over the past five years, the 28-year-old has established himself as one of the most dependable center-backs in Europe's top-five leagues, let alone the Premier League.
#cristian
2 days ago
Cristian Chivu has made it clear that he still wants another winger or wing-back before the end of the summer transfer window, but says that he is pleased with what he saw from the Inter squad after defeating Manchester City in a pre-season friendly earlier this weekend.
The Nerazzurri stopped off in Hong Kong on their way over to Australia while on their summer tour, defeating Manchester City on penalties after a 1-1 draw following goals from Divin Mubama and Benjamin Pavard.
Talking to the media after full-time in South East Asia, Chivu said that the most important thing was that his players came through their test injury free, but admitted that he is still at least one new player in the wide areas.
"If you do the counting, you get the same results as us," Chivu told reporters after full-time against Man City (via La Gazzetta dello Sport).
"It depends on how you look at it. Maybe we're missing one on the left. We have three wingers at the moment, or rather three and a half because Carlos (Augusto) can play there as well. And depending on how we look at Luis Henrique, who can play on the right or left, we're still missing one. There's still a long way to go in the window, we need to be patient and choose well."
#window #full #look
The Nerazzurri stopped off in Hong Kong on their way over to Australia while on their summer tour, defeating Manchester City on penalties after a 1-1 draw following goals from Divin Mubama and Benjamin Pavard.
Talking to the media after full-time in South East Asia, Chivu said that the most important thing was that his players came through their test injury free, but admitted that he is still at least one new player in the wide areas.
"If you do the counting, you get the same results as us," Chivu told reporters after full-time against Man City (via La Gazzetta dello Sport).
"It depends on how you look at it. Maybe we're missing one on the left. We have three wingers at the moment, or rather three and a half because Carlos (Augusto) can play there as well. And depending on how we look at Luis Henrique, who can play on the right or left, we're still missing one. There's still a long way to go in the window, we need to be patient and choose well."
#window #full #look
2 days ago
Despite their troubled relationship, Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov have both established a lasting bond with soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo over their years in the spotlight.
Ronaldo is second to none among the world's most famous people, capitalizing on his notoriety beyond the sport to amass a staggering 1+ billion followers across all social media accounts. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward has shown an interest in mixed martial arts in his time away from the field, often finding himself at UFC showcases when his busy schedules allow. Because of this, he has been able to connect with many notable figures in the combat sports world, most significantly McGregor and Khabib.
The Portuguese phenom has not slowed down at the grand age of 41, pushing to further his record as soccer's all-time leading goalscorer. Less than 30 goals away from hitting 1000, Ronaldo is on the verge of unrivaled greatness, though he is also closing in on a personal milestone arguably more important than his career achievements.
Cristiano Ronaldo and his long-term girlfriend, Georgina Rodriguez, have decided on a wedding date after eight years of dating. The wedding is set to be trending among the biggest in history, and the guest list is full of familiar faces around the globe.
For MMA fans, Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov will be front and center should they accept the reported invitation. If the UFC stars put their feud behind them, they will be in attendance alongside famous musicians Drake, Rihanna, and Jennifer Lopez, as well as personalities like IShowSpeed and Piers Morgan, who are all rumored to be present.
#khabib
Ronaldo is second to none among the world's most famous people, capitalizing on his notoriety beyond the sport to amass a staggering 1+ billion followers across all social media accounts. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward has shown an interest in mixed martial arts in his time away from the field, often finding himself at UFC showcases when his busy schedules allow. Because of this, he has been able to connect with many notable figures in the combat sports world, most significantly McGregor and Khabib.
The Portuguese phenom has not slowed down at the grand age of 41, pushing to further his record as soccer's all-time leading goalscorer. Less than 30 goals away from hitting 1000, Ronaldo is on the verge of unrivaled greatness, though he is also closing in on a personal milestone arguably more important than his career achievements.
Cristiano Ronaldo and his long-term girlfriend, Georgina Rodriguez, have decided on a wedding date after eight years of dating. The wedding is set to be trending among the biggest in history, and the guest list is full of familiar faces around the globe.
For MMA fans, Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov will be front and center should they accept the reported invitation. If the UFC stars put their feud behind them, they will be in attendance alongside famous musicians Drake, Rihanna, and Jennifer Lopez, as well as personalities like IShowSpeed and Piers Morgan, who are all rumored to be present.
#khabib
3 days ago
Man City vs. Inter Milan free live stream: How to watch online without cable originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Manchester City begin a new era in Hong Kong on Saturday, as Enzo Maresca takes charge for the first time following Pep Guardiola's departure, against Inter Milan.
It's a fitting reunion, given City edged Inter 1-0 in the 2023 Champions League final, though the two sides played out a draw when they last met in the 2024 UCL league phase.
Maresca will be without Erling Haaland for the occasion, with the striker still working his way back into full training following his World Cup run, although Antoine ***** yo will play alongside Joško Gvardiol, Phil Foden and others.
Cristian Chivu enters his second season as the Inter manager but will also be without a few of his stars. Lautaro Martínez and Manuel Akanji won't join the club in Hong Kong following a long World Cup tournament. Martínez's Argentina side fell in the final, while Akanji (who joined Inter from City a year ago) and his Swiss team lost to Argentina in the quarterfinals.
#city #hong
Manchester City begin a new era in Hong Kong on Saturday, as Enzo Maresca takes charge for the first time following Pep Guardiola's departure, against Inter Milan.
It's a fitting reunion, given City edged Inter 1-0 in the 2023 Champions League final, though the two sides played out a draw when they last met in the 2024 UCL league phase.
Maresca will be without Erling Haaland for the occasion, with the striker still working his way back into full training following his World Cup run, although Antoine ***** yo will play alongside Joško Gvardiol, Phil Foden and others.
Cristian Chivu enters his second season as the Inter manager but will also be without a few of his stars. Lautaro Martínez and Manuel Akanji won't join the club in Hong Kong following a long World Cup tournament. Martínez's Argentina side fell in the final, while Akanji (who joined Inter from City a year ago) and his Swiss team lost to Argentina in the quarterfinals.
#city #hong
3 days ago
Cristian Romero has been linked with a move away from Tottenham Hotspur since last season. Spurs' captain struggled for form, fitness, and with his relationship with the fans through the 2025/26 campaign, and the feeling in some avenues coming out of the season was that maybe it was time for the center back to explore options elsewhere.
That appears to be accelerating now, with Leo Paradizo, an Argentinian journalist for Todo Noticias, reporting via ESPN Argentina that Spurs and Inter Milan have reached a verbal agreement on terms for a transfer:
Here's a translation of the key parts:
The first thing we can confirm here is that Cuti Romero – although it was somewhat predictable – will not be staying at Tottenham…
…The second thing I'm in a position to confirm – and this is information checked firsthand today – is that there is a verbal agreement between Tottenham and Inter Milan…
#agreement #thing
That appears to be accelerating now, with Leo Paradizo, an Argentinian journalist for Todo Noticias, reporting via ESPN Argentina that Spurs and Inter Milan have reached a verbal agreement on terms for a transfer:
Here's a translation of the key parts:
The first thing we can confirm here is that Cuti Romero – although it was somewhat predictable – will not be staying at Tottenham…
…The second thing I'm in a position to confirm – and this is information checked firsthand today – is that there is a verbal agreement between Tottenham and Inter Milan…
#agreement #thing
4 days ago
Brazilian international Casemiro has become the latest in a rapidly growing list of high-profile names to have called Inter Miami home. The 34-year-old signed a deal with the Herons after the FIFA World Cup, joining through the 2027 MLS Sprint season, with the option for a further two years.
In joining Miami, which is co-owned by fellow Manchester United and Real Madrid legend David Beckham, Casemiro will become one of the few players to have had the opportunity to play alongside two of the all-time greats in Cristiano Ronaldo and Miami's Lionel Messi.
Looking ahead to this prospect, with Messi having recently returned to training following Argentina's run to the World Cup Final, where they lost 1-0 to Spain after extra time, Casemiro called his new teammate and former El Clásico rival "one of the gods, if not the god of football."
Donald Trump sparks outrage with Harry Kane World Cup comments
Argentina World Cup Final red card rescinded, face potential FIFA disciplinary action
#World #casemiro #fifa #become
In joining Miami, which is co-owned by fellow Manchester United and Real Madrid legend David Beckham, Casemiro will become one of the few players to have had the opportunity to play alongside two of the all-time greats in Cristiano Ronaldo and Miami's Lionel Messi.
Looking ahead to this prospect, with Messi having recently returned to training following Argentina's run to the World Cup Final, where they lost 1-0 to Spain after extra time, Casemiro called his new teammate and former El Clásico rival "one of the gods, if not the god of football."
Donald Trump sparks outrage with Harry Kane World Cup comments
Argentina World Cup Final red card rescinded, face potential FIFA disciplinary action
#World #casemiro #fifa #become
4 days ago
Tottenham Hotspur appear to be moving towards one of the defining decisions of their summer, with Cristian Romero's future still unresolved despite significant progress towards a potential exit. According to TeamTalk, Inter Milan remain firmly in the picture, but the move has slowed at a crucial stage and that has created a genuine opening for clubs in Spain.
The central detail is clear. Spurs have reportedly "agreed a deal in principle worth €40million with the Serie A champions", yet the switch remains incomplete because Romero and Inter have not reached common ground on personal terms. That leaves all parties in a familiar transfer market limbo, where momentum can shift quickly and alternative opportunities can suddenly become more serious.
From Tottenham's perspective, the message is that a departure is still the likeliest outcome. TeamTalk states that Spurs had already "accepted the defender wanted to leave north London this summer", which frames the situation in practical rather than emotional terms. If a player of Romero's stature is seeking a new challenge, the priority becomes securing the right conditions for an exit rather than dragging out an uncomfortable stand-off.
Inter's interest has not faded. Far from it. The Italian side are said to view Romero as a major target and still want to complete a deal once the contractual issues are settled. The report makes clear that "there is still a significant gap between the club's offer and Romero's salary demands", although "negotiations have not broken down entirely" and "neither party has walked away from the table".
Photo IMAGO
#teamtalk #Inter #romero
The central detail is clear. Spurs have reportedly "agreed a deal in principle worth €40million with the Serie A champions", yet the switch remains incomplete because Romero and Inter have not reached common ground on personal terms. That leaves all parties in a familiar transfer market limbo, where momentum can shift quickly and alternative opportunities can suddenly become more serious.
From Tottenham's perspective, the message is that a departure is still the likeliest outcome. TeamTalk states that Spurs had already "accepted the defender wanted to leave north London this summer", which frames the situation in practical rather than emotional terms. If a player of Romero's stature is seeking a new challenge, the priority becomes securing the right conditions for an exit rather than dragging out an uncomfortable stand-off.
Inter's interest has not faded. Far from it. The Italian side are said to view Romero as a major target and still want to complete a deal once the contractual issues are settled. The report makes clear that "there is still a significant gap between the club's offer and Romero's salary demands", although "negotiations have not broken down entirely" and "neither party has walked away from the table".
Photo IMAGO
#teamtalk #Inter #romero
4 days ago
Reports are growing in Italy that Como are close to an agreement with Chelsea for Trevoh Chalobah, reaching the €30m fixed fee asking price for the defender.
BRIGHTON, ENGLAND – APRIL 21: Trevoh Chalobah of Chelsea during the warm up during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Chelsea at Amex Stadium on April 21, 2026 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
He had also been heavily linked with Inter, and the subject of a pact of non-aggression between the two Serie A clubs for his signature.
However, when Inter withdrew their interest and instead focused on John Stones and Cristian Romero, it opened up the door for Como to resume negotiations.
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 21: Trevoh Chalobah of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Burnley at Stamford Bridge on February 21, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
#Chelsea #chalobah
BRIGHTON, ENGLAND – APRIL 21: Trevoh Chalobah of Chelsea during the warm up during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Chelsea at Amex Stadium on April 21, 2026 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
He had also been heavily linked with Inter, and the subject of a pact of non-aggression between the two Serie A clubs for his signature.
However, when Inter withdrew their interest and instead focused on John Stones and Cristian Romero, it opened up the door for Como to resume negotiations.
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 21: Trevoh Chalobah of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Burnley at Stamford Bridge on February 21, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
#Chelsea #chalobah
4 days ago
Cristian Chivu led the tributes to Franco Baresi on the eve of Inter's pre-season friendly against Manchester City, hailing the late Milan great as "a great icon" of the game.
According to Inter's official channels, the head coach opened his press conference in Hong Kong, where the sides meet at the Kai Tak Stadium on Saturday, by paying his respects to Baresi, who died on Friday aged 66.
"We join the world of sport in sending our condolences to Franco Baresi's family," Chivu said. "Everyone who loves football has lost a great icon of this sport."
Turning to matters on the pitch, Chivu said it was "truly a pleasure" to be preparing for the new campaign in such surroundings, even with both teams still short of full fitness after building up through a training camp in Germany.
John Stones signs for Inter (Source: inter.it)
#icon
According to Inter's official channels, the head coach opened his press conference in Hong Kong, where the sides meet at the Kai Tak Stadium on Saturday, by paying his respects to Baresi, who died on Friday aged 66.
"We join the world of sport in sending our condolences to Franco Baresi's family," Chivu said. "Everyone who loves football has lost a great icon of this sport."
Turning to matters on the pitch, Chivu said it was "truly a pleasure" to be preparing for the new campaign in such surroundings, even with both teams still short of full fitness after building up through a training camp in Germany.
John Stones signs for Inter (Source: inter.it)
#icon
4 days ago
HONG KONG – Everything is set at Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong, where Inter and Manchester City will face each other on Saturday at 19:30 local time (13:30 CEST) for an international friendly.
The match will be broadcast live on DAZN and on Sky, at no extra cost for existing subscribers, while non-subscribers will be able to watch via pay-per-view on OneFootball and DAZN.
On the eve of the friendly, Inter head coach Cristian Chivu answered questions from journalists at his pre-match press conference. Before doing so, however, the Nerazzurri coach paid tribute to Franco Baresi: "We join the world of sport in sending our condolences to Franco Baresi's family. Everyone who loves football has lost a great icon of this sport."
How important is it for you to be here, and what message do you want to send to the fans who are here in Hong Kong?
"It's truly a pleasure to be here, in this incredible place. We are in the preparation phase for the new season, but it is special for us to have the opportunity to play here against a great team like Manchester City. Even if neither team is at 100%, everyone will certainly be happy with the level of performance we try to produce on the pitch."
#kong
The match will be broadcast live on DAZN and on Sky, at no extra cost for existing subscribers, while non-subscribers will be able to watch via pay-per-view on OneFootball and DAZN.
On the eve of the friendly, Inter head coach Cristian Chivu answered questions from journalists at his pre-match press conference. Before doing so, however, the Nerazzurri coach paid tribute to Franco Baresi: "We join the world of sport in sending our condolences to Franco Baresi's family. Everyone who loves football has lost a great icon of this sport."
How important is it for you to be here, and what message do you want to send to the fans who are here in Hong Kong?
"It's truly a pleasure to be here, in this incredible place. We are in the preparation phase for the new season, but it is special for us to have the opportunity to play here against a great team like Manchester City. Even if neither team is at 100%, everyone will certainly be happy with the level of performance we try to produce on the pitch."
#kong
4 days ago
Cristian Romero remains one of the most closely watched defenders on the transfer market, with his future at Tottenham increasingly uncertain.
According to SPORT, Barcelona continue to monitor the Argentine international's situation, although any move for the centre-back would still depend on departures in Hansi Flick's defensive unit before the club can make a formal approach.
Meanwhile, comments from Tottenham manager Francesco De Zerbi have fuelled speculation that Romero's time in North London may be coming to an end.
Speaking about Romero's future, De Zerbi praised the defender's professionalism and commitment throughout his time under the Italian coach.
"Romero was incredible with me. Top level. His behaviour and his respect were outstanding," De Zerbi said.
#zerbi #time #argentine
According to SPORT, Barcelona continue to monitor the Argentine international's situation, although any move for the centre-back would still depend on departures in Hansi Flick's defensive unit before the club can make a formal approach.
Meanwhile, comments from Tottenham manager Francesco De Zerbi have fuelled speculation that Romero's time in North London may be coming to an end.
Speaking about Romero's future, De Zerbi praised the defender's professionalism and commitment throughout his time under the Italian coach.
"Romero was incredible with me. Top level. His behaviour and his respect were outstanding," De Zerbi said.
#zerbi #time #argentine
5 days ago
Cristiano Ronaldo is undoubtedly the biggest star to ever play in Saudi Arabia, but he has come at a huge cost for Al-Nassr.
Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in 2023, following a controversial exit from Manchester United. His arrival marked a huge shift in football, as several big names followed him to the Saudi League.
However, landing Ronaldo did not come cheap for Al-Nassr, and the long-term ramifications of landing the iconic #7 have played a part in their current financial peril.
Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images
Since joining Al-Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo has earned an eye-watering $625 million in wages from the team across the last three and a half years.
#cristiano #arabia #united
Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in 2023, following a controversial exit from Manchester United. His arrival marked a huge shift in football, as several big names followed him to the Saudi League.
However, landing Ronaldo did not come cheap for Al-Nassr, and the long-term ramifications of landing the iconic #7 have played a part in their current financial peril.
Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images
Since joining Al-Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo has earned an eye-watering $625 million in wages from the team across the last three and a half years.
#cristiano #arabia #united
7 days ago
Saudi Arabia's AI champion HUMAIN has signed its first sports sponsorship, partnering with Al Nassr, the Riyadh soccer club where superstar Cristiano Ronaldo plays, as it looks to integrate its AI offerings into the team.
The agreement will see HUMAIN's logo on Al Nassr's jerseys and new training center. HUMAIN also plans to deploy its sports technology unit and its interactive entertainment platform at the club.
HUMAIN aims to use the sponsorship deal to "go beyond the traditional sponsorship model," chief executive Tariq Amin said. "Together, we'll look at how solutions such as HUMAIN Sport and HUMAIN Create can help shape the next generation of fan engagement, from more personalized digital experiences to new forms of AI-powered content.
HUMAIN declined to comment on the financial details of the deal.
The sponsorship is also expected to provide a financial boost for Al Nassr. The club — which, like HUMAIN, is owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund — is reported to have more than $200 million in debt, complicating efforts to sign new players this summer.
#sponsorship #nassr
The agreement will see HUMAIN's logo on Al Nassr's jerseys and new training center. HUMAIN also plans to deploy its sports technology unit and its interactive entertainment platform at the club.
HUMAIN aims to use the sponsorship deal to "go beyond the traditional sponsorship model," chief executive Tariq Amin said. "Together, we'll look at how solutions such as HUMAIN Sport and HUMAIN Create can help shape the next generation of fan engagement, from more personalized digital experiences to new forms of AI-powered content.
HUMAIN declined to comment on the financial details of the deal.
The sponsorship is also expected to provide a financial boost for Al Nassr. The club — which, like HUMAIN, is owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund — is reported to have more than $200 million in debt, complicating efforts to sign new players this summer.
#sponsorship #nassr
10 days ago
LeBron James gets compared to Cristiano Ronaldo after joining the Philadelphia 76ers.
LeBron James and Cristiano Ronaldo are undoubtedly freaks of nature as they continue to play their respective sports, despite being 41 years old.
While Ronaldo has joined a less competitive league, the same cannot be said for James, as he recently joined one of the best teams in the NBA, the Philadelphia 76ers.
Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images for CR7 Play It Cool
Popular journalist and Ronaldo superfan Piers Morgan recently reacted to the news of James joining Philly. Morgan shared a message of support for King on Instagram.
#ronaldo #cristiano #morgan #joined
LeBron James and Cristiano Ronaldo are undoubtedly freaks of nature as they continue to play their respective sports, despite being 41 years old.
While Ronaldo has joined a less competitive league, the same cannot be said for James, as he recently joined one of the best teams in the NBA, the Philadelphia 76ers.
Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images for CR7 Play It Cool
Popular journalist and Ronaldo superfan Piers Morgan recently reacted to the news of James joining Philly. Morgan shared a message of support for King on Instagram.
#ronaldo #cristiano #morgan #joined
11 days ago
Socceroos World Cup star Cristian Volpato has allegedly tested positive for cocaine after police twice stopped him for speeding in Sydney on the same night.
The 22-year-old Australia midfielder was stopped in a BMW Coupe on the Anzac Bridge at 11:05pm local time on Thursday night after he was caught travelling between 86-94km/h in a 60km/h zone, police said.
He was subjected to a roadside breath test, which returned a negative result.
However, Volpato allegedly returned a positive result for cocaine when he was stopped two hours later for travelling at 109km/h in the same 60km/h zone.
New South Wales state police said Volpato was issued an infringement notice for excess speed, while his international driver's licence was suspended for six months - which means he cannot drive in New South Wales.
#positive #cocaine
The 22-year-old Australia midfielder was stopped in a BMW Coupe on the Anzac Bridge at 11:05pm local time on Thursday night after he was caught travelling between 86-94km/h in a 60km/h zone, police said.
He was subjected to a roadside breath test, which returned a negative result.
However, Volpato allegedly returned a positive result for cocaine when he was stopped two hours later for travelling at 109km/h in the same 60km/h zone.
New South Wales state police said Volpato was issued an infringement notice for excess speed, while his international driver's licence was suspended for six months - which means he cannot drive in New South Wales.
#positive #cocaine
12 days ago
Kylian Mbappe’s 2025/26 season will be remembered as one of the greatest individual goalscoring campaigns in modern football.
France’s World Cup journey ended in disappointment with a semi-final defeat to Spain, but that setback did little to overshadow what the Real Madrid forward had already achieved.
By finishing as the leading scorer in La Liga, the UEFA Champions League and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mbappe has become the first player in football history to top the scoring charts in all three competitions in the same season.
Neither great players like Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo managed to complete that remarkable treble during their careers, placing Mbappe’s milestone in elite company.
Mbappe has carried Real Madrid’s attack throughout a difficult campaign in which team success failed to match his individual brilliance.
#World #Football
France’s World Cup journey ended in disappointment with a semi-final defeat to Spain, but that setback did little to overshadow what the Real Madrid forward had already achieved.
By finishing as the leading scorer in La Liga, the UEFA Champions League and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mbappe has become the first player in football history to top the scoring charts in all three competitions in the same season.
Neither great players like Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo managed to complete that remarkable treble during their careers, placing Mbappe’s milestone in elite company.
Mbappe has carried Real Madrid’s attack throughout a difficult campaign in which team success failed to match his individual brilliance.
#World #Football
12 days ago
Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario is not part of the 35-man squad travelling for Spurs’ pre-season tour of New Zealand and Australia. The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium club are expected to sell the Italian, but he was dropped from Roberto De Zerbi’s squad due to a knock. Spurs confirmed on their website that Vicario sustained a minor knock in training and will undergo treatment at their training centre. Summer signing Martin Dubravka, Brandon Austin and Antonin Kinsky are the goalkeeping options available to De Zerbi on tour.
Tottenham are also without Mohamed Kudus, Xavi Simons, Dejan Kulusevski and Wilson Odobert. The quartet have stayed behind at Hotspur Way to continue their rehabilitation following knocks from last term. Rodrigo Bentancur, Pape Matar Sarr, Pedro Porro, Marcos Senesi, Cristian Romero and Djed Spence remain on extended break due to their participation at the just-concluded World Cup. Spurs play Auckland FC and Sydney FC later this month before facing Chelsea next month.
They return to London to take on Getafe and TSG Hoffenheim before starting the 2026-27 Premier League season with a trip to Brentford on August 22nd.
#TOTTENHAM #hotspur #knock
Tottenham are also without Mohamed Kudus, Xavi Simons, Dejan Kulusevski and Wilson Odobert. The quartet have stayed behind at Hotspur Way to continue their rehabilitation following knocks from last term. Rodrigo Bentancur, Pape Matar Sarr, Pedro Porro, Marcos Senesi, Cristian Romero and Djed Spence remain on extended break due to their participation at the just-concluded World Cup. Spurs play Auckland FC and Sydney FC later this month before facing Chelsea next month.
They return to London to take on Getafe and TSG Hoffenheim before starting the 2026-27 Premier League season with a trip to Brentford on August 22nd.
#TOTTENHAM #hotspur #knock
12 days ago
Spurs have announced the squad for their pre-season trip to Australia.
Tottenham will face Auckland, Sydney and Chelsea on their pre-season tour, but several players will not play a part, however.
Mohamed Kudus, Xavi Simons, Dejan Kulusevski, Wilson Odobert, Guglielmo Vicario, Rodrigo Bentancur, Pape Matar Sarr, Pedro Porro, Marcos Senesi, Cristian Romero and Djed Spence will all not make the trip.
Stay up to date with all the latest Spurs news by joining our Tottenham WhatsApp channel.
“Mohamed Kudus, Xavi Simons, Dejan Kulusevski and Wilson Odobert will remain at Hotspur Way to continue their rehabilitation, while Guglielmo Vicario has sustained a minor knock in training and will undergo treatment at our Training Centre,” Spurs said in a statement.
#SPURS #mohamed #kudus #simons
Tottenham will face Auckland, Sydney and Chelsea on their pre-season tour, but several players will not play a part, however.
Mohamed Kudus, Xavi Simons, Dejan Kulusevski, Wilson Odobert, Guglielmo Vicario, Rodrigo Bentancur, Pape Matar Sarr, Pedro Porro, Marcos Senesi, Cristian Romero and Djed Spence will all not make the trip.
Stay up to date with all the latest Spurs news by joining our Tottenham WhatsApp channel.
“Mohamed Kudus, Xavi Simons, Dejan Kulusevski and Wilson Odobert will remain at Hotspur Way to continue their rehabilitation, while Guglielmo Vicario has sustained a minor knock in training and will undergo treatment at our Training Centre,” Spurs said in a statement.
#SPURS #mohamed #kudus #simons
13 days ago
Tottenham Hotspur began their preseason campaign with a win in a behind-closed-doors friendly against League One side MK Dons at the Tottenham Hotspur training ground.
With several players missing due to the recently completed World Cup, a mix of youth and experience was on display as Roberto De Zerbi heavily rotated his side each half. New signings Mateus Fernandes, Sandro Tonali, and Martin Dubravka made their debuts, and it was the former who was the difference, with his stunning strike the lone goal in a scrappy encounter.
Here's my top ten talking points from Spurs' first outing under Thomas Frank.
Spurs' first friendly was as notable for who was missing as much as who was named. With the World Cup only recently wrapping up in the Americas, it was obviously much too soon to see the likes of Djed Spence, Pedro Porro, Marcos Senesi, or Cristian Romero; but other players involved in the World Cup also weren't involved. Jan Paul van Hecke, Micky van de Ven, Kevin Danso, Rodrigo Bentancur, Lucas Bergvall, Pape Sarr, and Andy Robertson were all missing due to enforced leave following their international duties.
This meant limited learnings as to how the squad will shape up when the season kicked off, and also raises questions as to who will be available for the tour to Australia and New Zealand. An additional point of concern was the absence of James Maddison, who had no such international commitments and who made his return from an ACL injury towards the end of last season. The fact he did not see the pitch is concerning given his injury history. It's a similar situation as well for promising young defender Jun'ai Byfield, also missing the end of the season with injury and not sighted today.
#World #friendly
With several players missing due to the recently completed World Cup, a mix of youth and experience was on display as Roberto De Zerbi heavily rotated his side each half. New signings Mateus Fernandes, Sandro Tonali, and Martin Dubravka made their debuts, and it was the former who was the difference, with his stunning strike the lone goal in a scrappy encounter.
Here's my top ten talking points from Spurs' first outing under Thomas Frank.
Spurs' first friendly was as notable for who was missing as much as who was named. With the World Cup only recently wrapping up in the Americas, it was obviously much too soon to see the likes of Djed Spence, Pedro Porro, Marcos Senesi, or Cristian Romero; but other players involved in the World Cup also weren't involved. Jan Paul van Hecke, Micky van de Ven, Kevin Danso, Rodrigo Bentancur, Lucas Bergvall, Pape Sarr, and Andy Robertson were all missing due to enforced leave following their international duties.
This meant limited learnings as to how the squad will shape up when the season kicked off, and also raises questions as to who will be available for the tour to Australia and New Zealand. An additional point of concern was the absence of James Maddison, who had no such international commitments and who made his return from an ACL injury towards the end of last season. The fact he did not see the pitch is concerning given his injury history. It's a similar situation as well for promising young defender Jun'ai Byfield, also missing the end of the season with injury and not sighted today.
#World #friendly
13 days ago
Cristiano Ronaldo will reportedly call time on his decorated international career after one more appearance for Portugal at a beloved venue.
Ronaldo, 41, scored three goals in five matches for Portugal at the 2026 World Cup including a brace against Uzbekistan in the group stage and a penalty versus Croatia in the Round of 32, playing 441 minutes at the tournament.
MORE — Will Messi win the Ballon d'Or?
That brings his international haul to 146 goals and 45 ******* ists in 233 caps. He has 87 more caps than all-time No. 2 Joao Moutinho and 99 more goals over Portugal's No. 2 scorer Pauleta.
But Goal.com's Moataz Elgammal, citing a Portuguese agent, says that Ronaldo will take the field for Portugal one more time in a UEFA Nations League match against Wales at Sporting Lisbon's Estadio Jose Alvalade on Sept. 24.
#ronaldo #croatia
Ronaldo, 41, scored three goals in five matches for Portugal at the 2026 World Cup including a brace against Uzbekistan in the group stage and a penalty versus Croatia in the Round of 32, playing 441 minutes at the tournament.
MORE — Will Messi win the Ballon d'Or?
That brings his international haul to 146 goals and 45 ******* ists in 233 caps. He has 87 more caps than all-time No. 2 Joao Moutinho and 99 more goals over Portugal's No. 2 scorer Pauleta.
But Goal.com's Moataz Elgammal, citing a Portuguese agent, says that Ronaldo will take the field for Portugal one more time in a UEFA Nations League match against Wales at Sporting Lisbon's Estadio Jose Alvalade on Sept. 24.
#ronaldo #croatia
13 days ago
Jhon Lucumi is in limbo, as Bologna admitted he could leave, but the talks with Juventus are stalling, and Inter and a few foreign clubs could easily overtake the Bianconeri if they loosened their purse strings, Il Resto Del Carlino reports.
CEO Claudio Fenucci addressed the future of the defender.
"He's under contract with us. The fact that there's just one year on it doesn't affect his valuation. He could depart because we made a promise to him a year ago, when we kept him despite an offer that could have changed his career. However, the bid has to be proper."
Sunderland had matched his €28M release clause, although after it had expired, and had tendered €3M wages, but the Felsinei insisted on retaining him.
Juventus haven't dangled that much at this stage for Lucumi, while Inter see him as a fallback target relative to John Stones and Cristian Romero.
#jhon
CEO Claudio Fenucci addressed the future of the defender.
"He's under contract with us. The fact that there's just one year on it doesn't affect his valuation. He could depart because we made a promise to him a year ago, when we kept him despite an offer that could have changed his career. However, the bid has to be proper."
Sunderland had matched his €28M release clause, although after it had expired, and had tendered €3M wages, but the Felsinei insisted on retaining him.
Juventus haven't dangled that much at this stage for Lucumi, while Inter see him as a fallback target relative to John Stones and Cristian Romero.
#jhon
13 days ago
FC Barcelona have now shifted their focus to the summer transfer window after seeing eight of their players lift the World Cup in New Jersey on Sunday.
Central defence seems to be an area the club could look to address, with a potential move for Spanish defender Aymeric Laporte on the cards.
However, other reports have also revealed that Barça are not treating the signing of a new centre-back as a priority at the moment.
Now, according to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona are keeping Cristian Romero on their list of possible defensive targets, but only if one of the current defenders leaves.
Romero is expected to leave Tottenham this summer, with Inter Milan working on a possible deal and direct talks with the defender’s representatives expected.
#jersey
Central defence seems to be an area the club could look to address, with a potential move for Spanish defender Aymeric Laporte on the cards.
However, other reports have also revealed that Barça are not treating the signing of a new centre-back as a priority at the moment.
Now, according to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona are keeping Cristian Romero on their list of possible defensive targets, but only if one of the current defenders leaves.
Romero is expected to leave Tottenham this summer, with Inter Milan working on a possible deal and direct talks with the defender’s representatives expected.
#jersey
13 days ago
Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe makes a major announcement just days after World Cup exit.
Kylian Mbappe and France were eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup by the eventual champions, Spain, in the semifinals of the tournament.
Mbappe and co. had no answer for Spain’s heavy-possession style of soccer as they were handed a 2-0 defeat. The star striker’s woes only continued after losing the third-place game against England.
But the Real Madrid star has already forgotten about the unsuccessful World Cup run and has made a major EA FC 27 announcement, mimicking Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo had yet another disappointing run at the World Cup as the Portugal captain’s most prominent performance came during a Group Stage match against Uzbekistan.
#mbappe #real #madrid #star
Kylian Mbappe and France were eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup by the eventual champions, Spain, in the semifinals of the tournament.
Mbappe and co. had no answer for Spain’s heavy-possession style of soccer as they were handed a 2-0 defeat. The star striker’s woes only continued after losing the third-place game against England.
But the Real Madrid star has already forgotten about the unsuccessful World Cup run and has made a major EA FC 27 announcement, mimicking Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo had yet another disappointing run at the World Cup as the Portugal captain’s most prominent performance came during a Group Stage match against Uzbekistan.
#mbappe #real #madrid #star
13 days ago
It has been around four months, 138 days to be precise, since the Real Madrid forward Rodrygo Goes suffered his latest injury, an anterior cruciate ligament tear and ******* ociated meniscus tear in his right knee. This injury, suffered on 2nd March, brought a premature end to his club season, and more sadly for the player, also meant him missing the World Cup 2026.
At the time of his injury, he was expected to spend between ten to twelve months on the sidelines. However, as Diario AS has reported, his recovery progress is going very well, and he is expected to recover fully from this injury within the lower extreme of this time range, i.e., ten months.
After having undergone surgery right after this injury, the Brazilian forward has already overcome the most difficult phase of his recovery in these four months. He has gone through these four months with a lot of physical and mental pain, but his determination has never been shaken, as seen from the long rehabilitation and physiotherapy sessions he has undergone. Later, he also started regaining mobility in his knee and began working in the gym.
As things stand, his recovery has progressed to such an extent that he can go through daily life activities, without stepping on the pitch. He also went to the United States to see and support his Brazilian national team in the World Cup, and in North America, also met one of his idols, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Going forward, Rodrygo Goes is expected to get his medical clearance in January. However, he would still need more time to get back to his best level and gradually make his return to the pitch in competitive games.
#rodrygo
At the time of his injury, he was expected to spend between ten to twelve months on the sidelines. However, as Diario AS has reported, his recovery progress is going very well, and he is expected to recover fully from this injury within the lower extreme of this time range, i.e., ten months.
After having undergone surgery right after this injury, the Brazilian forward has already overcome the most difficult phase of his recovery in these four months. He has gone through these four months with a lot of physical and mental pain, but his determination has never been shaken, as seen from the long rehabilitation and physiotherapy sessions he has undergone. Later, he also started regaining mobility in his knee and began working in the gym.
As things stand, his recovery has progressed to such an extent that he can go through daily life activities, without stepping on the pitch. He also went to the United States to see and support his Brazilian national team in the World Cup, and in North America, also met one of his idols, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Going forward, Rodrygo Goes is expected to get his medical clearance in January. However, he would still need more time to get back to his best level and gradually make his return to the pitch in competitive games.
#rodrygo
13 days ago
Cristiano Ronaldo emerged as one of the biggest social media winners of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, finishing fourth among the tournament’s top Instagram gainers. The Portugal star added 11.4 million followers despite his country failing to reach the latter stages.
Ronaldo also sparked controversy after his verified account appeared to endorse a post accusing FIFA of favoring Argentina at the competition.
Overall, Norway striker Erling Haaland led all other players at the World Cup in growth of IG numbers, as he added a whopping 32.1 million followers to his audience.
Cristiano Ronaldo may already be the most-followed athlete on Instagram, but the Portuguese icon still proved the FIFA World Cup could grow even the biggest global brands.
At the just-concluded global soccer showpiece, Ronaldo finished fourth among the tournament’s biggest Instagram gainers. According to a Sportico ***** ysis of social media growth during the World Cup, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner added 11.4 million followers during the 38-day competition to climb from 665.6 million to a staggering 677 million.
#ronaldo #World #biggest #added
Ronaldo also sparked controversy after his verified account appeared to endorse a post accusing FIFA of favoring Argentina at the competition.
Overall, Norway striker Erling Haaland led all other players at the World Cup in growth of IG numbers, as he added a whopping 32.1 million followers to his audience.
Cristiano Ronaldo may already be the most-followed athlete on Instagram, but the Portuguese icon still proved the FIFA World Cup could grow even the biggest global brands.
At the just-concluded global soccer showpiece, Ronaldo finished fourth among the tournament’s biggest Instagram gainers. According to a Sportico ***** ysis of social media growth during the World Cup, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner added 11.4 million followers during the 38-day competition to climb from 665.6 million to a staggering 677 million.
#ronaldo #World #biggest #added
