13 days ago
All eyes will be on Gianluigi Donnarumma in net for Manchester City on Saturday.
On Wednesday night, City hosted Brighton with a spot in the Carabao Cup quarter-final on the line.
Despite the hosts starting on the front foot, Brighton took the lead just half an hour in through Malick Junior Yalcouye. The Malian winger found himself unmarked on the edge of the six yard box, played marginally onside by Ayyoub Bouaddi, from there a tap-in left the hosts trailing.
The opener spurred Maresca's side into action though, and just ten minutes later they were back level. Phil Foden found Mateo Kovacic just outside the area, and the Croatian international made no mistake with a wonderfully placed side-footed finish.
After the break it didn't take long for the visitors to take the lead once again. Georginio Rutter got himself goal-side of Mateo Kovacic and slotted home to the left of Geronimo Rulli, leaving Manchester City with all the work to do.
#found #himself
On Wednesday night, City hosted Brighton with a spot in the Carabao Cup quarter-final on the line.
Despite the hosts starting on the front foot, Brighton took the lead just half an hour in through Malick Junior Yalcouye. The Malian winger found himself unmarked on the edge of the six yard box, played marginally onside by Ayyoub Bouaddi, from there a tap-in left the hosts trailing.
The opener spurred Maresca's side into action though, and just ten minutes later they were back level. Phil Foden found Mateo Kovacic just outside the area, and the Croatian international made no mistake with a wonderfully placed side-footed finish.
After the break it didn't take long for the visitors to take the lead once again. Georginio Rutter got himself goal-side of Mateo Kovacic and slotted home to the left of Geronimo Rulli, leaving Manchester City with all the work to do.
#found #himself
2 months ago
Lazio are eyeing a deal to bring Croatian midfielder Marcelo Brozović back to Serie A following the expiration of his contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr.
The experienced midfielder spent eight years at Inter between 2015 and 2023, making over 300 appearances for the Nerazzurri, and according to Calciomercato.it, he is open to a return to Italian football.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – AUGUST 24: Gennaro Gattuso looks on before the Serie A match at Stadio Renato Dall'Ara on August 24, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Furthermore, the reports claim that Lazio head coach Gennaro Gattuso has specifically asked the upper management for a midfielder of similar qualities to Brozovic and the club are therefore considering a move.
After a slow start to the summer transfer window, Lazio accelerated their business in the closing stages of the market, securing deals for the likes of Albert Guðmundsson, Andrea Pinamonti, and Josip Šutalo.
#bologna #croatian #marcelo
The experienced midfielder spent eight years at Inter between 2015 and 2023, making over 300 appearances for the Nerazzurri, and according to Calciomercato.it, he is open to a return to Italian football.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – AUGUST 24: Gennaro Gattuso looks on before the Serie A match at Stadio Renato Dall'Ara on August 24, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Furthermore, the reports claim that Lazio head coach Gennaro Gattuso has specifically asked the upper management for a midfielder of similar qualities to Brozovic and the club are therefore considering a move.
After a slow start to the summer transfer window, Lazio accelerated their business in the closing stages of the market, securing deals for the likes of Albert Guðmundsson, Andrea Pinamonti, and Josip Šutalo.
#bologna #croatian #marcelo
2 months ago
On August 29, at the O2 Arena in London, Filip Hrgovic inflicted a shock defeat on heavyweight rising star Moses Itaumato become the new IBF heavyweight champion. Fans, fighters, and boxing coaches have had their say on what went wrong for the Brit, and Ryan Garcia is the latest to have his say when speaking to the media ahead of his September 12 WBC welterweight world ******* le defence against Conor Benn.
Moses Itauma (14-1, 12 KOs) entered the ring at the O2 Arena as a huge odds-on favourite against the experienced Croatian, Filip Hrgovic (21-1, 16 KOs). Itauma took no time to settle, quickly showcasing his blistering hand speed and impressive accuracy.
Despite the constant onslaught from Itauma, Hrgovic stood tall and took everything, and as the fight progressed, the Brit looked to be tiring. The Croat's right hand began to land with more regularity. The ninth round saw Itauma enter a state of barely being able to stand up, and Hrgovic let his hands go, with the towel coming in from Ben Davison just as the referee stepped in to wave the fight off. The O2 fell into stunned silence as Hrgovic and his team celebrated wildly that he was the new IBF heavyweight world champion.
"It's a marathon. Don't look too much into this defeat. Look into what you need to fix, for sure. But don't let it get you down completely. You were obviously the better fighter. You just weren't conditioned, and you just don't have enough experience at this current time to take that.
"But I don't think he did bad. He was doing pretty good, but…I don't know what was going on with his head. If you watch his interviews before, he's saying that he's not the best physcially right now (not sparred 12 rounds), nor mentally, but it will still be enough to beat Hrgovic. That's a really bad mindset," said Garcia, reflecting on Itauma's defeat.
#brit
Moses Itauma (14-1, 12 KOs) entered the ring at the O2 Arena as a huge odds-on favourite against the experienced Croatian, Filip Hrgovic (21-1, 16 KOs). Itauma took no time to settle, quickly showcasing his blistering hand speed and impressive accuracy.
Despite the constant onslaught from Itauma, Hrgovic stood tall and took everything, and as the fight progressed, the Brit looked to be tiring. The Croat's right hand began to land with more regularity. The ninth round saw Itauma enter a state of barely being able to stand up, and Hrgovic let his hands go, with the towel coming in from Ben Davison just as the referee stepped in to wave the fight off. The O2 fell into stunned silence as Hrgovic and his team celebrated wildly that he was the new IBF heavyweight world champion.
"It's a marathon. Don't look too much into this defeat. Look into what you need to fix, for sure. But don't let it get you down completely. You were obviously the better fighter. You just weren't conditioned, and you just don't have enough experience at this current time to take that.
"But I don't think he did bad. He was doing pretty good, but…I don't know what was going on with his head. If you watch his interviews before, he's saying that he's not the best physcially right now (not sparred 12 rounds), nor mentally, but it will still be enough to beat Hrgovic. That's a really bad mindset," said Garcia, reflecting on Itauma's defeat.
#brit
2 months ago
Real Madrid already has two potential paths in mind for Luka Modric once the club legend eventually ends his playing career, according to Defensa Central.
Modric continues to perform at AC Milan, but the question of what comes next has already started to emerge.
The Croatian midfielder recently said in an interview with AS that he would like to return to Madrid one day, although only if he can make a meaningful contribution rather than simply come back because of his status as a club icon.
Now, Journalist Tomas Roncero, as relayed in Defensa Central, believes that a return is inevitable.
More importantly, he thinks Modric has the football knowledge to take on a serious role at the club rather than becoming a ceremonial figure.
#already #rather #luka
Modric continues to perform at AC Milan, but the question of what comes next has already started to emerge.
The Croatian midfielder recently said in an interview with AS that he would like to return to Madrid one day, although only if he can make a meaningful contribution rather than simply come back because of his status as a club icon.
Now, Journalist Tomas Roncero, as relayed in Defensa Central, believes that a return is inevitable.
More importantly, he thinks Modric has the football knowledge to take on a serious role at the club rather than becoming a ceremonial figure.
#already #rather #luka
2 months ago
Things are moving fast, very fast, too fast at Cremonese. Two defeats in Serie B, sure, but also qualification for the Coppa Italia against Parma this week... that's the record of Marco Giampaolo, who is already out less than two weeks after the restart. One word... why?
New season, same Olympic-level fitness. Luka Modric keeps adding to his legend. The Croatian is carrying on with AC Milan at the age of 40. The curious twist this season is that he is now coached by Ruben Amorim, who was also born in 1985.
A little cheap shot.
- These 20 transfers you probably missed this summer (1/2)
- Serie A: best player, best young player... the winners are known!
#best #player #cremonese #italia
New season, same Olympic-level fitness. Luka Modric keeps adding to his legend. The Croatian is carrying on with AC Milan at the age of 40. The curious twist this season is that he is now coached by Ruben Amorim, who was also born in 1985.
A little cheap shot.
- These 20 transfers you probably missed this summer (1/2)
- Serie A: best player, best young player... the winners are known!
#best #player #cremonese #italia
2 months ago
Dominik Livakovic is one of many signings Barcelona have made this summer and at least on paper, it is the one which has generated the least amount of buzz as the goalkeeper will merely be serving as a backup for Joan Garcia.
That being said, Livakovic has had to sacrifice a great deal in his bid to join Barcelona this summer, notably declining a lucrative offer from Dinamo Zagreb, a club he was playing for on loan last season.
According to Croatian newspaper Jutarnji List (h/t SPORT), the option of rejoining Dinamo Zagreb was seriously considered by Livakovic if Barcelona had truly struggled to give him a registration guarantee.
Livakovic brings a wealth of experience to the table. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
The Croatian outfit were supremely impressed by Livakovic's performances last season and wanted to sign him permanently from Fenerbahce this summer.
#summer #least #last #season
That being said, Livakovic has had to sacrifice a great deal in his bid to join Barcelona this summer, notably declining a lucrative offer from Dinamo Zagreb, a club he was playing for on loan last season.
According to Croatian newspaper Jutarnji List (h/t SPORT), the option of rejoining Dinamo Zagreb was seriously considered by Livakovic if Barcelona had truly struggled to give him a registration guarantee.
Livakovic brings a wealth of experience to the table. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
The Croatian outfit were supremely impressed by Livakovic's performances last season and wanted to sign him permanently from Fenerbahce this summer.
#summer #least #last #season
2 months ago
Fabio Wardley has leapt to the defence of coach Ben Davison after teammate Moses Itauma failed in his bid to become the second-youngest ever world heavyweight champion on Saturday.
Itauma punched himself out after a dominant eight rounds against Filip Hrgovic at London's O2 Arena, appearing visibly exhausted against the Croatian in the ninth before his corner threw in the towel.
The 21-year-old had admitted pre-fight that he had never gone 12 rounds in sparring, which after the result ignited a torrent of backlash towards his gym as questions were raised about his preparations.
Wardley, who is also trained by Davison, lost his first fight to Daniel Dubois in similar fashion, gassing late on after dominating the early stages, and will now rematch "Dynamite" looking to regain his WBO ***** le on 17 October.
But when speaking about the criticism his trainer has received, Wardley dismissed the noise as "delusional" and said he is ready to prove the gym's worth by delivering greatness.
#fabio #moses
Itauma punched himself out after a dominant eight rounds against Filip Hrgovic at London's O2 Arena, appearing visibly exhausted against the Croatian in the ninth before his corner threw in the towel.
The 21-year-old had admitted pre-fight that he had never gone 12 rounds in sparring, which after the result ignited a torrent of backlash towards his gym as questions were raised about his preparations.
Wardley, who is also trained by Davison, lost his first fight to Daniel Dubois in similar fashion, gassing late on after dominating the early stages, and will now rematch "Dynamite" looking to regain his WBO ***** le on 17 October.
But when speaking about the criticism his trainer has received, Wardley dismissed the noise as "delusional" and said he is ready to prove the gym's worth by delivering greatness.
#fabio #moses
2 months ago
Fabio Wardley has leapt to the defence of coach Ben Davison after teammate Moses Itauma failed in his bid to become the second-youngest ever world heavyweight champion on Saturday.
Itauma punched himself out after a dominant eight rounds against Filip Hrgovic at London's O2 Arena, appearing visibly exhausted against the Croatian in the ninth before his corner threw in the towel.
The 21-year-old had admitted pre-fight that he had never gone 12 rounds in sparring, which after the result ignited a torrent of backlash towards his gym as questions were raised about his preparations.
Wardley, who is also trained by Davison, lost his first fight to Daniel Dubois in similar fashion, gassing late on after dominating the early stages, and will now rematch "Dynamite" looking to regain his WBO **** le on 17 October.
But when speaking about the criticism his trainer has received, Wardley dismissed the noise as "delusional" and said he is ready to prove the gym's worth by delivering greatness.
#itauma #saturday #hrgovic
Itauma punched himself out after a dominant eight rounds against Filip Hrgovic at London's O2 Arena, appearing visibly exhausted against the Croatian in the ninth before his corner threw in the towel.
The 21-year-old had admitted pre-fight that he had never gone 12 rounds in sparring, which after the result ignited a torrent of backlash towards his gym as questions were raised about his preparations.
Wardley, who is also trained by Davison, lost his first fight to Daniel Dubois in similar fashion, gassing late on after dominating the early stages, and will now rematch "Dynamite" looking to regain his WBO **** le on 17 October.
But when speaking about the criticism his trainer has received, Wardley dismissed the noise as "delusional" and said he is ready to prove the gym's worth by delivering greatness.
#itauma #saturday #hrgovic
2 months ago
Moses Itauma has been advised to learn from his devastating knockout loss to Filip Hrgovic and harness his speed to become a world champion.
Itauma, 21, was impressing throughout his world IBF world heavyweight ******* le fight against the experienced and talented Croatian, who featured at the 2016 Olympics.
Despite taking a knee in the second round, the 34-year-old rallied to produce a thrilling comeback and forced a stoppage in the ninth round.
And after one of the biggest shocks of the year in boxing, a host of fighters have shared their view on how the mercurial Briton can bounce back to fulfil his talent after this major setback, including four-weight world champion Shakur Stevenson.
"Unbelievable talent and skills," Stevenson remarked on Itauma's performance. "He's young and will be a champion one day if he learn from that.
#stevenson
Itauma, 21, was impressing throughout his world IBF world heavyweight ******* le fight against the experienced and talented Croatian, who featured at the 2016 Olympics.
Despite taking a knee in the second round, the 34-year-old rallied to produce a thrilling comeback and forced a stoppage in the ninth round.
And after one of the biggest shocks of the year in boxing, a host of fighters have shared their view on how the mercurial Briton can bounce back to fulfil his talent after this major setback, including four-weight world champion Shakur Stevenson.
"Unbelievable talent and skills," Stevenson remarked on Itauma's performance. "He's young and will be a champion one day if he learn from that.
#stevenson
2 months ago
Moses Itauma tasted his first professional defeat earlier today (Sat., Aug. 29, 2026) at the "Natural Born Thriller" fight card LIVE on DAZN from London, England, dropping a main event TKO loss to Croatian contender Filip Hrgovic, who walked away with the vacant IBF heavyweight ****** le.
Saturday offered a jam-packed slate of combat action, but the heavyweight ****** le fight between Itauma and Hrgovic was at the top of the list. Not only because they are two of the more promising contenders in the division, but also due to their on-stage scuffle during Friday's weigh ins. Itauma entered their Saturday grudge match as a betting favorite, but Hrgovic was always going to be a live dog.
While both fighters had their moments in the fight the biggest story line was Hrgovic's ability to take a punch. Itauma hits as hard as most heavyweights —evident by his career knockout rate — but that didn't prevent Hrgovic from taking the punishment and plodding forward. Eventually, Hrgovic's durability and resolve were too much for Itauma to handle and he started to fade. That allowed Hrgovic to implement his own offense and start piling on big shots. As a result, Itauma's corner eventually decided to throw the towel in for a TKO stoppage in the ninth round. Itauma was so bad that he had to be transported from the ring on a stretcher.
Check out the video highlights below and let us know who should be next for Hrgovic!
For complete 'Itauma vs. Hrgovic' results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.
#itauma #saturday #live #heavyweight
Saturday offered a jam-packed slate of combat action, but the heavyweight ****** le fight between Itauma and Hrgovic was at the top of the list. Not only because they are two of the more promising contenders in the division, but also due to their on-stage scuffle during Friday's weigh ins. Itauma entered their Saturday grudge match as a betting favorite, but Hrgovic was always going to be a live dog.
While both fighters had their moments in the fight the biggest story line was Hrgovic's ability to take a punch. Itauma hits as hard as most heavyweights —evident by his career knockout rate — but that didn't prevent Hrgovic from taking the punishment and plodding forward. Eventually, Hrgovic's durability and resolve were too much for Itauma to handle and he started to fade. That allowed Hrgovic to implement his own offense and start piling on big shots. As a result, Itauma's corner eventually decided to throw the towel in for a TKO stoppage in the ninth round. Itauma was so bad that he had to be transported from the ring on a stretcher.
Check out the video highlights below and let us know who should be next for Hrgovic!
For complete 'Itauma vs. Hrgovic' results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.
#itauma #saturday #live #heavyweight
3 months ago
The tension cracked at the weigh-in for Moses Itauma's fight with Filip Hrgovic, with the young Briton pushing his rival off the stage before receiving a slap in return.
Itauma, 21, will puts his unbeaten record on the line when he fights Hrgovic for the vacant IBF heavyweight belt, as the pair headline at London's O2 Arena on Saturday.
And Itauma had been typically stoic until Friday's weigh-in, refusing to rise to the Croatian's taunts that he is "delusional" and just a "kid".
Filip Hrgovic slapping Moses Itauma at their weigh-in (PA)
But the face-off saw each man bark at the other, with Itauma insisting he will "f*** up" Hrgovic on Saturday, before he pushed the 34-year-old off the stage as Hrgovic flexed in front of the fans.
#tension
Itauma, 21, will puts his unbeaten record on the line when he fights Hrgovic for the vacant IBF heavyweight belt, as the pair headline at London's O2 Arena on Saturday.
And Itauma had been typically stoic until Friday's weigh-in, refusing to rise to the Croatian's taunts that he is "delusional" and just a "kid".
Filip Hrgovic slapping Moses Itauma at their weigh-in (PA)
But the face-off saw each man bark at the other, with Itauma insisting he will "f*** up" Hrgovic on Saturday, before he pushed the 34-year-old off the stage as Hrgovic flexed in front of the fans.
#tension
3 months ago
Rangers remain in talks with Brighton and Hove Albion for winger Amario Cozier-Duberry after a previous bid was rejected. (Rangers Review)
Celtic have agreed a deal for Hajduk Split and Canada midfielder Niko Sigur. (Lukasz Gikiewicz on X)
Although Genk have emerged as late contenders for Sigur's signature and have bid €4m. (24 Sata - in Croatian)
Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, 33, is a target for Celtic. (Daily Mail)
Rangers have identified Rodez striker Ibrahima Balde as a target to bolster their striking options. (Sacha Tavolieri on X)
#cozier
Celtic have agreed a deal for Hajduk Split and Canada midfielder Niko Sigur. (Lukasz Gikiewicz on X)
Although Genk have emerged as late contenders for Sigur's signature and have bid €4m. (24 Sata - in Croatian)
Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, 33, is a target for Celtic. (Daily Mail)
Rangers have identified Rodez striker Ibrahima Balde as a target to bolster their striking options. (Sacha Tavolieri on X)
#cozier
3 months ago
This weekend, Moses Itauma will fight Filip Hrgovic for the vacant IBF heavyweight ****** le, with a piece of history on the line.
If Itauma wins, the Briton will become the youngest world heavyweight champion since Mike Tyson, who broke the record 40 years ago.
And Itauma, 21, will enter Saturday's main event full of confidence, with a 14-0 (12 KOs) record to his name, having stopped Dillian Whyte and Jermaine Franklin in his last two bouts.
Moses Itauma (left) vs Filip Hrgovic is a fitting vacant-title fight (Getty)
Hrgovic is a seasoned heavyweight, however, an Olympic medalist who has lost just once as a pro. The Croatian, 34, was bloodied by Daniel Dubois to the point of a stoppage in 2024, but he has since beaten three Britons in a row.
#moses
If Itauma wins, the Briton will become the youngest world heavyweight champion since Mike Tyson, who broke the record 40 years ago.
And Itauma, 21, will enter Saturday's main event full of confidence, with a 14-0 (12 KOs) record to his name, having stopped Dillian Whyte and Jermaine Franklin in his last two bouts.
Moses Itauma (left) vs Filip Hrgovic is a fitting vacant-title fight (Getty)
Hrgovic is a seasoned heavyweight, however, an Olympic medalist who has lost just once as a pro. The Croatian, 34, was bloodied by Daniel Dubois to the point of a stoppage in 2024, but he has since beaten three Britons in a row.
#moses
3 months ago
Barcelona have completed the signing of Dominik Livakovic, but the Croatian goalkeeper's future for the coming season remains unresolved as the club's preferred loan arrangement has hit an unexpected obstacle.
The 31-year-old has joined Barcelona from Fenerbahce in a deal worth €2 million plus a possible €500,000 in variables.
After arriving in Barcelona on Tuesday, Livakovic is scheduled to undergo his medical examination on Wednesday before putting pen to paper on a contract running until 2030.
The signing itself is not the issue. The question Barcelona must now answer is where their new goalkeeper will spend the season.
According to SPORT, Barcelona initially planned to send Livakovic out on a one-year loan before integrating him into the first-team setup in 2027, when Wojciech Szczesny's spell at the club comes to an end.
#Barcelona #signing #dominik
The 31-year-old has joined Barcelona from Fenerbahce in a deal worth €2 million plus a possible €500,000 in variables.
After arriving in Barcelona on Tuesday, Livakovic is scheduled to undergo his medical examination on Wednesday before putting pen to paper on a contract running until 2030.
The signing itself is not the issue. The question Barcelona must now answer is where their new goalkeeper will spend the season.
According to SPORT, Barcelona initially planned to send Livakovic out on a one-year loan before integrating him into the first-team setup in 2027, when Wojciech Szczesny's spell at the club comes to an end.
#Barcelona #signing #dominik
3 months ago
Barcelona's plan with their goalkeeping department is moving quickly, with Dominik Livakovic set to arrive in the city today to complete the final stages of his move to the club.
According to SPORT, the Croatian international is expected to land in Barcelona this afternoon, with the club ready to begin the formal process of bringing their new goalkeeper into the squad.
His medical is scheduled for tomorrow at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, after which the remaining details of his Barcelona transfer can be completed.
It must be remembered that despite the signing, Livakovic's arrival raises more questions than answers.
In fact, it opens the most intriguing one: where will he spend the 2026/27 season?
#sport
According to SPORT, the Croatian international is expected to land in Barcelona this afternoon, with the club ready to begin the formal process of bringing their new goalkeeper into the squad.
His medical is scheduled for tomorrow at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, after which the remaining details of his Barcelona transfer can be completed.
It must be remembered that despite the signing, Livakovic's arrival raises more questions than answers.
In fact, it opens the most intriguing one: where will he spend the 2026/27 season?
#sport
3 months ago
On Saturday's boxing double-header, Moses Itauma bids to become the second-youngest heavyweight world champion against Filip Hrgovic, while Mikaela Mayer and Chantelle Cameron meet in a major world ******* le unification clash.
Briton Itauma, 21, is one of boxing's brightest young talents, with 14 wins and 12 knockouts. Hrgovic, 34, brings a 20-1 record and years of top-level experience, with his only defeat coming against Daniel Dubois.
Can Itauma take down Hrgovic at London's O2 Arena and win the vacant IBF ******* le? Or will the Croatian's experience and power end the hype?
Meanwhile, Mayer and Briton Cameron collide in a three-belt light-middleweight unification fight at BP Pulse Arena in Birmingham. American Mayer holds the WBA and WBC ******* les, while Cameron owns the WBO belt.
The bout pits two top elite fighters against each other, with both aiming to move one step closer to becoming undisputed.
#cameron #World
Briton Itauma, 21, is one of boxing's brightest young talents, with 14 wins and 12 knockouts. Hrgovic, 34, brings a 20-1 record and years of top-level experience, with his only defeat coming against Daniel Dubois.
Can Itauma take down Hrgovic at London's O2 Arena and win the vacant IBF ******* le? Or will the Croatian's experience and power end the hype?
Meanwhile, Mayer and Briton Cameron collide in a three-belt light-middleweight unification fight at BP Pulse Arena in Birmingham. American Mayer holds the WBA and WBC ******* les, while Cameron owns the WBO belt.
The bout pits two top elite fighters against each other, with both aiming to move one step closer to becoming undisputed.
#cameron #World
3 months ago
Lazio have reportedly secured the services of Croatian defender Josip Sutalo after reaching a full accord with Ajax.
This has been an eventful day for the Biancocelesti, who were supposed to complete the signing of Senegalese striker Bamba Dieng on a free transfer, but the deal has been called off due to a failed medical. But while Claudio Lotito and Angelo Fabiani are back to square one on the attacking front, they have apparently solved their defensive dilemma.
According to multiple sources in the Italian media, including Gianluca Di Marzio, Fabrizio Romano, and Damiano Er Faina, Lazio and Ajax have reached a final agreement on Sutalo's transfer. The 26-year-old will join the Italian capital side on an initial loan for €3 million with an option to buy set at €7.5 million, while the Amsterdam-based giants would receive a 10% cut in case of a future resale.
Sutalo is a Dynamo Zagreb youth product who climbed his way up the ranks to become a stalwart for both club and country. In 2023, he earned a €20 million move to Ajax and went on to make 108 appearances for the Dutch club.
The Croatian international will join a centre-back department that includes Oliver Provstgaard and fellow new signing Danilho Doekhi, while Alessio Romagnoli's fate remains undecided, and Patric and Samuel Gigot are dealing with career-threatening long-term injuries.
#ajax #million
This has been an eventful day for the Biancocelesti, who were supposed to complete the signing of Senegalese striker Bamba Dieng on a free transfer, but the deal has been called off due to a failed medical. But while Claudio Lotito and Angelo Fabiani are back to square one on the attacking front, they have apparently solved their defensive dilemma.
According to multiple sources in the Italian media, including Gianluca Di Marzio, Fabrizio Romano, and Damiano Er Faina, Lazio and Ajax have reached a final agreement on Sutalo's transfer. The 26-year-old will join the Italian capital side on an initial loan for €3 million with an option to buy set at €7.5 million, while the Amsterdam-based giants would receive a 10% cut in case of a future resale.
Sutalo is a Dynamo Zagreb youth product who climbed his way up the ranks to become a stalwart for both club and country. In 2023, he earned a €20 million move to Ajax and went on to make 108 appearances for the Dutch club.
The Croatian international will join a centre-back department that includes Oliver Provstgaard and fellow new signing Danilho Doekhi, while Alessio Romagnoli's fate remains undecided, and Patric and Samuel Gigot are dealing with career-threatening long-term injuries.
#ajax #million
3 months ago
Since Toni Kroos's retirement, Real Madrid's attack seems largely like an orchestra without a conductor, unable to find someone to cohesively pull the strings on a pitch filled with talented footballers with distinct skillsets. The de facto leader of Madrid on the pitch in the later years of his career, Kroos attempted over 100 passes per 90 minutes in La Liga in his final season at Madrid, completing nearly 95% of his passes, and 82 pass attempts per 90 in the Champions League. By comparison, Madrid's leading passer from midfield last season was Aurélien Tchouaméni with only 65.5 pass attempts per 90 in La Liga and 55.7 per 90 in Champions. In fact, with Luka Modric's subsequent departure, it was two centre-backs (Antonio Rüdiger in La Liga and Dean Huijsen in the Champions League) that led Madrid in pass attempts per 90 for the first time in nearly a decade.
Two of the criticisms of Madrid post-Kroos/Modric is that the deeper players like Rüdiger and Fede Valverde don't: i) circulate the ball quickly enough or ii) provide sufficient incisive passes to the forward line. We ****** yzed both points to see the validity of these concerns as it relates to Madrid's midfield.
Let's first tackle quick ball circulation. Kroos's final season at Madrid saw him attempt 22.2% of his passes one-touch (fourth percentile amongst midfielders in the top five leagues) and 53.7% within two seconds of receiving the ball (eighth percentile amongst midfielders in the top five leagues) in league play while Modric that same season saw 23.5% of his passes come via first touch (10th percentile) and 52.6% under two seconds (seventh percentile). By comparison, Aurelien Tchouaméni and Valverde last season distributed 26.4% and 26.3% of their passes, respectively in La Liga one-time (higher percentages than Kroos and Modric in 2023/2024) with nearly the identical percentage of quick passes (passes within two seconds of receiving the ball) as the German legend and Croatian maestro had in 2023/2024 (Tchouaméni: 53.8%; Kroos: 53.7%; Valverde: 53.3%; Modric: 52.6%).
It is a popular misconception that being a tempo controller often requires playing the ball quickly and having a significant percentage of one-two touch passes. Kroos was not a great tempo controller because he often passed the ball first touch. As the chart above demonstrates, Kroos actually circulated the ball slower his final season than many of Madrid's midfielders last season. The best tempo controllers know when to play first-time, when to hold on to the ball for several seconds, when to progress the ball and when to value retaining possession, understanding that the scoreline, moment in the match, and positioning of players on the pitch dictate when to move the ball quickly and when to slow the play down. Vitinha, considered by many to be the best deep-lying playmaker in the game today, distributed less than our out of every five attempted passes (18.3%) during live play last season in Ligue 1 from a first
Two of the criticisms of Madrid post-Kroos/Modric is that the deeper players like Rüdiger and Fede Valverde don't: i) circulate the ball quickly enough or ii) provide sufficient incisive passes to the forward line. We ****** yzed both points to see the validity of these concerns as it relates to Madrid's midfield.
Let's first tackle quick ball circulation. Kroos's final season at Madrid saw him attempt 22.2% of his passes one-touch (fourth percentile amongst midfielders in the top five leagues) and 53.7% within two seconds of receiving the ball (eighth percentile amongst midfielders in the top five leagues) in league play while Modric that same season saw 23.5% of his passes come via first touch (10th percentile) and 52.6% under two seconds (seventh percentile). By comparison, Aurelien Tchouaméni and Valverde last season distributed 26.4% and 26.3% of their passes, respectively in La Liga one-time (higher percentages than Kroos and Modric in 2023/2024) with nearly the identical percentage of quick passes (passes within two seconds of receiving the ball) as the German legend and Croatian maestro had in 2023/2024 (Tchouaméni: 53.8%; Kroos: 53.7%; Valverde: 53.3%; Modric: 52.6%).
It is a popular misconception that being a tempo controller often requires playing the ball quickly and having a significant percentage of one-two touch passes. Kroos was not a great tempo controller because he often passed the ball first touch. As the chart above demonstrates, Kroos actually circulated the ball slower his final season than many of Madrid's midfielders last season. The best tempo controllers know when to play first-time, when to hold on to the ball for several seconds, when to progress the ball and when to value retaining possession, understanding that the scoreline, moment in the match, and positioning of players on the pitch dictate when to move the ball quickly and when to slow the play down. Vitinha, considered by many to be the best deep-lying playmaker in the game today, distributed less than our out of every five attempted passes (18.3%) during live play last season in Ligue 1 from a first
3 months ago
Danny Sprinkle and the Washington Huskies are reportedly interested in a newly eligible player.
South Alabama guard Chaze Harris, the reigning Sun Belt Player of the Year, has heard from Washington, SMU, and Seton Hall in the transfer portal after being granted an injunction to become eligible for the 2026-27 season, according to a report from 247Sports' Dushawn London.
Harris' injunction stems from similar cases around the country, granting fourth-year seniors who have recently graduated the opportunity to return to school in the wake of the NCAA's change to a 5-in-5 eligibility model that gave class of 2023 athletes and later the ability to play five years of competition. A similar injunction recently allowed Washington football defensive lineman Ta'ita'i Uiagalelei to return to the Huskies shortly after the beginning of fall practice.
What makes Washington's reported interest more confusing than all of the legalese, however, is that the Huskies' roster is full. Sprinkle's team has 15 players as of right now: Wesley Yates III, Nikola Dzepina, Mady Traore, Lathan Sommerville, Jasir Rencher, Rutgers transfer Harun Zrno, Davidson transfer Parker Friedrichsen, Gonzaga transfer Steele Venters, San Francisco transfer Ryan Beasley, Texas Tech transfer LeJuan Watts, Australian Tristan Devers, Croatian Boris Tišma, Brazilian Wini Braga Silva, freshman Lattimore Ford, and walk-on Brandon Roy Jr.
The Huskies added a 16th player - Dzepina - last season, but were only able to do so because Traore suffered a season-ending injury before the first game. In order to add Harris, a similar situation would need to occur. One possibility is that Rencher will be held out of games this season as he recovers from heart surgery - although he has been participating in summer workouts, there is no clarity on whether he has been cleared for game action. Another is that one of Washington's other players has suffered an as-yet unreported injury serious enough that the Huskies want a former conference player of the year to step in and give the Huskies a boost.
#huskies #harris #season #dzepina
South Alabama guard Chaze Harris, the reigning Sun Belt Player of the Year, has heard from Washington, SMU, and Seton Hall in the transfer portal after being granted an injunction to become eligible for the 2026-27 season, according to a report from 247Sports' Dushawn London.
Harris' injunction stems from similar cases around the country, granting fourth-year seniors who have recently graduated the opportunity to return to school in the wake of the NCAA's change to a 5-in-5 eligibility model that gave class of 2023 athletes and later the ability to play five years of competition. A similar injunction recently allowed Washington football defensive lineman Ta'ita'i Uiagalelei to return to the Huskies shortly after the beginning of fall practice.
What makes Washington's reported interest more confusing than all of the legalese, however, is that the Huskies' roster is full. Sprinkle's team has 15 players as of right now: Wesley Yates III, Nikola Dzepina, Mady Traore, Lathan Sommerville, Jasir Rencher, Rutgers transfer Harun Zrno, Davidson transfer Parker Friedrichsen, Gonzaga transfer Steele Venters, San Francisco transfer Ryan Beasley, Texas Tech transfer LeJuan Watts, Australian Tristan Devers, Croatian Boris Tišma, Brazilian Wini Braga Silva, freshman Lattimore Ford, and walk-on Brandon Roy Jr.
The Huskies added a 16th player - Dzepina - last season, but were only able to do so because Traore suffered a season-ending injury before the first game. In order to add Harris, a similar situation would need to occur. One possibility is that Rencher will be held out of games this season as he recovers from heart surgery - although he has been participating in summer workouts, there is no clarity on whether he has been cleared for game action. Another is that one of Washington's other players has suffered an as-yet unreported injury serious enough that the Huskies want a former conference player of the year to step in and give the Huskies a boost.
#huskies #harris #season #dzepina
3 months ago
Luka Modric has opened up on his decision to sign a new contract with Milan, insisting he never seriously considered walking away despite the pain of last season's collapse.
Speaking to Milan TV, via MilanNews, the Croatian addressed the injury suffered against Juventus that clouded the closing months of the campaign: "I never thought it would be my last game with Milan. Deep down, I knew I wanted to continue, but at the same time, I had to check other things that would allow me to do so. Now I'm here and I'm very happy to be back."
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 24: Luka Modric of AC Milan looks on after the Serie A match between AC Milan and Cagliari Calcio at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 24, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Milan's home defeat to Cagliari ended their ****** le challenge on a painful note, and Modric admitted it took a World Cup campaign with Croatia to fully process it.
However, it was the club's show of faith over the summer, as they built around Ruben Amorim and added significant fire-power, including deals worth around €150m once Diego Moreira's move from Strasbourg is finalised, that convinced him to extend: "Milan showed how much they cared about me and the fact that I was part of this new project: it was what I needed, what I wanted to hear. I talked to my family about it and decided to stay."
#campaign
Speaking to Milan TV, via MilanNews, the Croatian addressed the injury suffered against Juventus that clouded the closing months of the campaign: "I never thought it would be my last game with Milan. Deep down, I knew I wanted to continue, but at the same time, I had to check other things that would allow me to do so. Now I'm here and I'm very happy to be back."
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 24: Luka Modric of AC Milan looks on after the Serie A match between AC Milan and Cagliari Calcio at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 24, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Milan's home defeat to Cagliari ended their ****** le challenge on a painful note, and Modric admitted it took a World Cup campaign with Croatia to fully process it.
However, it was the club's show of faith over the summer, as they built around Ruben Amorim and added significant fire-power, including deals worth around €150m once Diego Moreira's move from Strasbourg is finalised, that convinced him to extend: "Milan showed how much they cared about me and the fact that I was part of this new project: it was what I needed, what I wanted to hear. I talked to my family about it and decided to stay."
#campaign
3 months ago
In the final Bundesliga match of the 2022/23 season at home to 1. FFC Turbine Potsdam (Sunday 28 May, 14:00 CEST), FC Bayern Women can secure the championship with a win. Before kick-off, four players who are leaving the club at the end of the season will say their goodbyes: Laura Benkarth, Ivana Rudelić, Saki ***** agai and Emelyne Laurent. FC Bayern says thanks and Servus!
72 appearances, 55 wins and 43 clean sheets! Laura Benkarth kept the ball out of the FC Bayern net for a long time. As the number one during the 2020/21 season, the Freiburg native played a key role in the ***** le win, conceding just one goal - a penalty - in the entire first half of the season. After five years in the FCB shirt, the cheerful 30-year-old is leaving the club at the end of this season. On the pitch, Laura had command of her defence and passed on her many years of experience to the young goalkeepers at Bayern in training and on matchdays.
Many thanks for your service and your infection happiness over the last five years, Laura! We wish you only the best for the future!
After returning to the Bavarian capital at the start of 2021, Ivana Rudelić is now leaving Bayern. The striker first plied her trade for the Reds from 2008 to 2014, before rejoining seven years later. During her first stint with the club, the Croatian international lifted the DFB Cup in 2012, when she scored the goal to make it 2-0 in the final. She also celebrated the championship with the team in 2021.
Dear Ivana, many thanks for your commitment in the Bayern shirt. FCB wishes you all the very best!
#club #first
72 appearances, 55 wins and 43 clean sheets! Laura Benkarth kept the ball out of the FC Bayern net for a long time. As the number one during the 2020/21 season, the Freiburg native played a key role in the ***** le win, conceding just one goal - a penalty - in the entire first half of the season. After five years in the FCB shirt, the cheerful 30-year-old is leaving the club at the end of this season. On the pitch, Laura had command of her defence and passed on her many years of experience to the young goalkeepers at Bayern in training and on matchdays.
Many thanks for your service and your infection happiness over the last five years, Laura! We wish you only the best for the future!
After returning to the Bavarian capital at the start of 2021, Ivana Rudelić is now leaving Bayern. The striker first plied her trade for the Reds from 2008 to 2014, before rejoining seven years later. During her first stint with the club, the Croatian international lifted the DFB Cup in 2012, when she scored the goal to make it 2-0 in the final. She also celebrated the championship with the team in 2021.
Dear Ivana, many thanks for your commitment in the Bayern shirt. FCB wishes you all the very best!
#club #first
3 months ago
Jack Munro & Roos van Reek teamed up to win Mixed Open in Birmingham.
The largest indoor pickleball event held anywhere in the world was held last weekend, with 3,400+ players descending into Birmingham, England for the 2026 English Open, powered by the ****** ociation of Pickleball Players (APP) and continuing a multi-year relationship between the US-based tour and the biggest European organization out there.
Let's do a quick recap of the results, highlighting the winners, the upsets, and the top International players who made waves. The event featured a slew of pros from the US, joined by some of Europe's top players and even some visitors from the East.
Ignasi De Rueda, who plays out of Barcelona and is one of the top Spanish players who plays primarily out of the continent survived the massive draw to take gold. In the final, he topped APP Next player Jake Bower. Bower had taken out top APP player Livornese in the quarters and Poland star Mateusz Matysik to earn his finals spot. Meanwhile, De rueda crushed another APP Next star Jayden Broderick in the semis before a tight 11-9 third game win for the ****** le.
In a great display of the spread of the game, the semis of the Women's draw featured players from Spain, Croatia, Netherlands, and the USA. Of course, the Croatian actually plays in the States, while the Dutch player primarily plays in Australia, so you just can never tell. Dutch star Roos van Reek topped APP next star Brooke Revuelta in one semi, while Croatian-born Domenika Turkovic (currently No. 4 on the APP tour) made fast work of Barcelona-based in the other. In the final, Turkovic outlasted van Reek for the ****** le.
#roos
The largest indoor pickleball event held anywhere in the world was held last weekend, with 3,400+ players descending into Birmingham, England for the 2026 English Open, powered by the ****** ociation of Pickleball Players (APP) and continuing a multi-year relationship between the US-based tour and the biggest European organization out there.
Let's do a quick recap of the results, highlighting the winners, the upsets, and the top International players who made waves. The event featured a slew of pros from the US, joined by some of Europe's top players and even some visitors from the East.
Ignasi De Rueda, who plays out of Barcelona and is one of the top Spanish players who plays primarily out of the continent survived the massive draw to take gold. In the final, he topped APP Next player Jake Bower. Bower had taken out top APP player Livornese in the quarters and Poland star Mateusz Matysik to earn his finals spot. Meanwhile, De rueda crushed another APP Next star Jayden Broderick in the semis before a tight 11-9 third game win for the ****** le.
In a great display of the spread of the game, the semis of the Women's draw featured players from Spain, Croatia, Netherlands, and the USA. Of course, the Croatian actually plays in the States, while the Dutch player primarily plays in Australia, so you just can never tell. Dutch star Roos van Reek topped APP next star Brooke Revuelta in one semi, while Croatian-born Domenika Turkovic (currently No. 4 on the APP tour) made fast work of Barcelona-based in the other. In the final, Turkovic outlasted van Reek for the ****** le.
#roos
3 months ago
Amy Hunt won her third gold medal of a potential historic quadruple and Dina Asher-Smith earned a spot in the record books as Great Britain's 4x100m relay stars put on a show at the European Championships.
Britain's new sprint sensation Hunt celebrated her third ****** le in six days, following triumphs in the 100m and 200m, as the GB women's quartet claimed the hosts' second gold medal in a spectacular ending to Saturday's action in Birmingham.
The 24-year-old, who described her team-mates as "superwomen" and a "privilege to race with", will now attempt to become the first athlete to win four gold medals at a single edition in the event's 92-year history when the mixed 4x100m relay takes place on Sunday.
Team-mate Asher-Smith, meanwhile, achieved her seventh gold at the championships - 10 years after capturing her first.
With that, the 30-year-old matched the record tally also held by Norway's Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Croatian discus thrower Sandra Elkasevic.
#smith #team #Third
Britain's new sprint sensation Hunt celebrated her third ****** le in six days, following triumphs in the 100m and 200m, as the GB women's quartet claimed the hosts' second gold medal in a spectacular ending to Saturday's action in Birmingham.
The 24-year-old, who described her team-mates as "superwomen" and a "privilege to race with", will now attempt to become the first athlete to win four gold medals at a single edition in the event's 92-year history when the mixed 4x100m relay takes place on Sunday.
Team-mate Asher-Smith, meanwhile, achieved her seventh gold at the championships - 10 years after capturing her first.
With that, the 30-year-old matched the record tally also held by Norway's Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Croatian discus thrower Sandra Elkasevic.
#smith #team #Third
3 months ago
Amy Hunt won her third gold medal of a potential historic quadruple and Dina Asher-Smith earned a spot in the record books as Great Britain's 4x100m relay stars put on a show at the European Championships.
Britain's new sprint sensation Hunt celebrated her third **** le in six days, following triumphs in the 100m and 200m, as the GB women's quartet claimed the hosts second gold medal in a spectacular ending to Saturday's action in Birmingham.
The 24-year-old will now attempt to become the first athlete to win four medals at a single edition in the event's 92-year history when the mixed 4x100m relay takes place on Sunday.
Team-mate Asher-Smith, meanwhile, achieved her seventh gold at the championships - 10 years after capturing her first.
With that, the 30-year-old matched the record tally also held by Norway's Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Croatian discus thrower Sandra Elkasevic.
#record #x100m
Britain's new sprint sensation Hunt celebrated her third **** le in six days, following triumphs in the 100m and 200m, as the GB women's quartet claimed the hosts second gold medal in a spectacular ending to Saturday's action in Birmingham.
The 24-year-old will now attempt to become the first athlete to win four medals at a single edition in the event's 92-year history when the mixed 4x100m relay takes place on Sunday.
Team-mate Asher-Smith, meanwhile, achieved her seventh gold at the championships - 10 years after capturing her first.
With that, the 30-year-old matched the record tally also held by Norway's Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Croatian discus thrower Sandra Elkasevic.
#record #x100m
3 months ago
SC Paderborn are reportedly closing in on the signing of former Bayern Munich attacking prospect Gabriel Vidovic from Dinamo Zagreb. According to Croatian outlet Sportske Novosti, Paderborn are prepared to pay approximately €3m for the 22-year-old. Sky Germany – as relayed by transfermarkt.de – has subsequently confirmed the Bundesliga newcomers' pursuit.
Vidovic only completed a permanent departure from Bayern last summer. The Augsburg-born Croatia youth international joined Dinamo for around €1.2m after previously spending three separate spells away from the German record champions on loan.
His future had initially appeared less certain. Get German Football News reported in June 2025 that Heidenheim were attempting to acquire Vidovic, with the Ostalb club willing to consider either a loan or permanent transfer.
Only three days later, however, GGFN reported that Heidenheim had missed out as Vidovic instead moved towards a permanent switch to Dinamo Zagreb.
The Croatian attacker has since registered seven goals and five **** ists for Dinamo. His current market value stands at approximately €3m after previously reaching €3.5m during an earlier loan spell with the Zagreb club.
#vidovic #dinamo #zagreb #croatian
Vidovic only completed a permanent departure from Bayern last summer. The Augsburg-born Croatia youth international joined Dinamo for around €1.2m after previously spending three separate spells away from the German record champions on loan.
His future had initially appeared less certain. Get German Football News reported in June 2025 that Heidenheim were attempting to acquire Vidovic, with the Ostalb club willing to consider either a loan or permanent transfer.
Only three days later, however, GGFN reported that Heidenheim had missed out as Vidovic instead moved towards a permanent switch to Dinamo Zagreb.
The Croatian attacker has since registered seven goals and five **** ists for Dinamo. His current market value stands at approximately €3m after previously reaching €3.5m during an earlier loan spell with the Zagreb club.
#vidovic #dinamo #zagreb #croatian
3 months ago
Former Bayern Munich prospect Gabriel Vidović could be on his way back to the Bundesliga.
The Dinamo Zagreb left winger / attacking midfielder is reportedly on his way to SC Paderborn per Sky Germany journalists Kerry Hau and Dennis Bayer:
SC Paderborn is on the verge of signing Gabriel Vidovic! The former Bayern Munich player is expected to join from Dinamo Zagreb for a transfer fee of 3 million euros—it would be the Bundesliga newcomer's record signing. Negotiations are in the final stages. SkySportDE _dennisbayer
Vidović's 2025/26 season was a productive return to Dinamo Zagreb after making his move from Bayern Munich permanent last summer. The Croatian attacker established himself as an important attacking option, contributing seven goals and six ******* ists in 37 games across all competitions.
The 22-year-old's ability to operate from the left wing and create chances made him a consistent threat, even if his minutes were sometimes limited. Vidović showed the attacking potential that made him highly regarded during his time in Bayern Munich's academy.
#dinamo
The Dinamo Zagreb left winger / attacking midfielder is reportedly on his way to SC Paderborn per Sky Germany journalists Kerry Hau and Dennis Bayer:
SC Paderborn is on the verge of signing Gabriel Vidovic! The former Bayern Munich player is expected to join from Dinamo Zagreb for a transfer fee of 3 million euros—it would be the Bundesliga newcomer's record signing. Negotiations are in the final stages. SkySportDE _dennisbayer
Vidović's 2025/26 season was a productive return to Dinamo Zagreb after making his move from Bayern Munich permanent last summer. The Croatian attacker established himself as an important attacking option, contributing seven goals and six ******* ists in 37 games across all competitions.
The 22-year-old's ability to operate from the left wing and create chances made him a consistent threat, even if his minutes were sometimes limited. Vidović showed the attacking potential that made him highly regarded during his time in Bayern Munich's academy.
#dinamo
3 months ago
Josip Stanišić is welcoming the competition at Bayern Munich rather than fearing it.
Speaking about his role following the arrival of Nathaniel Brown, the Croatian defender emphasized that earning a place in the starting XI has always been a part of life at a club like Bayern Munich, and that mentality has not changed.
"My role hasn't changed. Even before, when Hiroki arrived – and he can play in that position too – it was already up to me to make the coach's decision a difficult one. As a team, it's great to have another good player in the squad," Stanišić said (as captured by iMiaSanMia). "We've got so many matches; in the end, almost everyone was fit because we'd made plenty of substitutions and not everyone had to play every game. The way football is developing, you need a big squad with top-class players to be able to win at the end of a long season.
"You see PSG won the Champions League twice in a row, because they can just field their second team in the league. Not every time, but they can make more changes than in many other leagues. It's good for us; for me, it makes me even more determined to find my place – then it's up to the coach to decide who should play."
It is the kind of mindset Bayern Munich will need throughout the season. With four competitions to navigate and an increasingly demanding schedule, quality depth is no longer optional. Every position requires multiple players capable of starting, and internal competition is what keeps standards high.
#even #place
Speaking about his role following the arrival of Nathaniel Brown, the Croatian defender emphasized that earning a place in the starting XI has always been a part of life at a club like Bayern Munich, and that mentality has not changed.
"My role hasn't changed. Even before, when Hiroki arrived – and he can play in that position too – it was already up to me to make the coach's decision a difficult one. As a team, it's great to have another good player in the squad," Stanišić said (as captured by iMiaSanMia). "We've got so many matches; in the end, almost everyone was fit because we'd made plenty of substitutions and not everyone had to play every game. The way football is developing, you need a big squad with top-class players to be able to win at the end of a long season.
"You see PSG won the Champions League twice in a row, because they can just field their second team in the league. Not every time, but they can make more changes than in many other leagues. It's good for us; for me, it makes me even more determined to find my place – then it's up to the coach to decide who should play."
It is the kind of mindset Bayern Munich will need throughout the season. With four competitions to navigate and an increasingly demanding schedule, quality depth is no longer optional. Every position requires multiple players capable of starting, and internal competition is what keeps standards high.
#even #place
3 months ago
After failing to recruit Franjo Ivanovic, Lazio are expected to swiftly shift their focus to another striker, as Santiago Gimenez and two other Serie A attackers could re-emerge on the scene.
Earlier this week, it was revealed that the Biancocelesti struck an agreement with Benfica, who agreed to loan them Ivanovic with an option to buy. But on Saturday, reliable sources confirmed that the 22-year-old Croatian has instead chosen RC Lens, who will play in the Champions League this season.
According to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla, Lazio now have three main names on their attacking shortlist: Gimenez, Andrea Pinamonti, and Roberto Piccoli. Sky Sport Italia journalist Manuele Baiocchini (via Gianlucadimarzio.com) is reporting the exact same names.
Piccoli is a 25-year-old striker who joined Fiorentina last year, but is considered available on the market, as the Viola only deem him a backup for Moise Kean. The Atalanta youth product made 32 appearances in Serie A last season, scoring four league goals. The sources reveal that he's also a target for Bologna.
At the age of 27, Pinamonti might be eager to leave Sassuolo, as he's been playing his football at the Mapei Stadium since 2022. The Inter Milan youth product is running on an expiring contract, so Lazio could seize the opportunity to buy him at a cut price. The Italian was considered the main alternative to Ivanovic, so there could be important developments on this front in the coming weeks.
#italian #piccoli #league
Earlier this week, it was revealed that the Biancocelesti struck an agreement with Benfica, who agreed to loan them Ivanovic with an option to buy. But on Saturday, reliable sources confirmed that the 22-year-old Croatian has instead chosen RC Lens, who will play in the Champions League this season.
According to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla, Lazio now have three main names on their attacking shortlist: Gimenez, Andrea Pinamonti, and Roberto Piccoli. Sky Sport Italia journalist Manuele Baiocchini (via Gianlucadimarzio.com) is reporting the exact same names.
Piccoli is a 25-year-old striker who joined Fiorentina last year, but is considered available on the market, as the Viola only deem him a backup for Moise Kean. The Atalanta youth product made 32 appearances in Serie A last season, scoring four league goals. The sources reveal that he's also a target for Bologna.
At the age of 27, Pinamonti might be eager to leave Sassuolo, as he's been playing his football at the Mapei Stadium since 2022. The Inter Milan youth product is running on an expiring contract, so Lazio could seize the opportunity to buy him at a cut price. The Italian was considered the main alternative to Ivanovic, so there could be important developments on this front in the coming weeks.
#italian #piccoli #league
3 months ago
He has shared a studio with Charles Barkley for over two decades. Survived every Inside the NBA segment Ernie Johnson has thrown at him and spent years being the target of the Jet jokes that have made Thursday nights essential television. On Saturday, Kenny Smith gave the basketball world something new to celebrate — and the Inside the NBA family showed up exactly as expected.
Smith married Tia Jurcic at The Resort at Pelican Hill in Newport Coast, California, marking his third trip down the aisle. The "Inside the NBA" host and his Croatian influencer bride announced the news in a joint Instagram post reading "Mr. & Mrs. Smith."
The post on Instagram showed an outdoor ceremony held beneath a hanging chandelier framed by white drapery and arrangements of white and pink roses. Smith wore a white suit jacket with a black bowtie, while Jurcic chose a strapless gown with a full, Cinderella-style skirt.
The NBA world reacted to the moment with congratulatory messages in the comment section. Barkley, Smith's "Inside the NBA" co-host, kept it short and sweet: "Congrats, Jet!!"
Reggie Miller followed with "Congrats Brotha," while Chris Webber added his own "Congrats!!" Former NBA forward Carlos Boozer added "Congrats fam," and Danny Green also sent in his well-wishes with "Congrats my guy!!!"
#congrats #barkley #host
Smith married Tia Jurcic at The Resort at Pelican Hill in Newport Coast, California, marking his third trip down the aisle. The "Inside the NBA" host and his Croatian influencer bride announced the news in a joint Instagram post reading "Mr. & Mrs. Smith."
The post on Instagram showed an outdoor ceremony held beneath a hanging chandelier framed by white drapery and arrangements of white and pink roses. Smith wore a white suit jacket with a black bowtie, while Jurcic chose a strapless gown with a full, Cinderella-style skirt.
The NBA world reacted to the moment with congratulatory messages in the comment section. Barkley, Smith's "Inside the NBA" co-host, kept it short and sweet: "Congrats, Jet!!"
Reggie Miller followed with "Congrats Brotha," while Chris Webber added his own "Congrats!!" Former NBA forward Carlos Boozer added "Congrats fam," and Danny Green also sent in his well-wishes with "Congrats my guy!!!"
#congrats #barkley #host
3 months ago
La Masia has been constantly producing talents ready for the first team for Barcelona in recent seasons, but that is not their only success story.
There are many other players who come through the famed academy but leave Barça in search of regular game time, going on to succeed at another club.
Among them is Sergi Dominguez. The 21-year-old left the Catalan club last summer in a €1.2 million transfer and enjoyed an impressive first season at Dinamo Zagreb.
One year on, Dominguez has established himself as one of the Croatian league's standout defenders, helping Dinamo win both the league and cup while earning a place in the division's Team of the Season.
Now, the former Barça defender has admitted that his long-term dream remains returning to the club.
#team #season
There are many other players who come through the famed academy but leave Barça in search of regular game time, going on to succeed at another club.
Among them is Sergi Dominguez. The 21-year-old left the Catalan club last summer in a €1.2 million transfer and enjoyed an impressive first season at Dinamo Zagreb.
One year on, Dominguez has established himself as one of the Croatian league's standout defenders, helping Dinamo win both the league and cup while earning a place in the division's Team of the Season.
Now, the former Barça defender has admitted that his long-term dream remains returning to the club.
#team #season
