2 months ago
By Justin Ruderman
Ranging from the Philadelphia Union's teenage phenoms to Inter Miami CF's global icons, stars proved age is just a number and earned their spot on Matchday 23's Team of the Matchday presented by Audi.
Starters: Brian Schwake (NSH) - Casemiro (MIA), Neil Pierre (PHI), Reggie Cannon (COL) - Allan Saint-Maximin (CLT), Carles Gil (NE), Hany Mukhtar (NSH), Cavan Sullivan (PHI) - Antoine Griezmann (ORL), Dejan Joveljić (SEA), Lionel Messi (MIA)
Coach: B.J. Callaghan (NSH)
Bench: Hugo Lloris (LAFC), Oleksandr Svatok (ATX), Mamadou Fofana (NE), Thomas Müller (VAN), Nicolás Fernández Mercau (NYC), Anders Dreyer (SD), Robert Lewandowski (CHI), Sam Surridge (NSH), Kelvin Yeboah (MIN)
#matchday #philadelphia #Miami
Ranging from the Philadelphia Union's teenage phenoms to Inter Miami CF's global icons, stars proved age is just a number and earned their spot on Matchday 23's Team of the Matchday presented by Audi.
Starters: Brian Schwake (NSH) - Casemiro (MIA), Neil Pierre (PHI), Reggie Cannon (COL) - Allan Saint-Maximin (CLT), Carles Gil (NE), Hany Mukhtar (NSH), Cavan Sullivan (PHI) - Antoine Griezmann (ORL), Dejan Joveljić (SEA), Lionel Messi (MIA)
Coach: B.J. Callaghan (NSH)
Bench: Hugo Lloris (LAFC), Oleksandr Svatok (ATX), Mamadou Fofana (NE), Thomas Müller (VAN), Nicolás Fernández Mercau (NYC), Anders Dreyer (SD), Robert Lewandowski (CHI), Sam Surridge (NSH), Kelvin Yeboah (MIN)
#matchday #philadelphia #Miami
2 months ago
Despite strong links with a move to Chelsea, Lamine Camara is expected to start for AS Monaco against Olympique de Marseille on Sunday night.
The Senegal international may not be a Monaco player come Tuesday, but he is expected to start alongside Denis Zakaria. Meanwhile, another player linked with an exit, Folarin Balogun, is out. He has yet to return to fitness since his return from the FIFA World Cup. Ansu Fati is also out injured, whilst Takumi Minamino and Mohamed Salisu are building up their fitness after suffering ACL injuries last season.
Up front, Filipe Luís has a decision to make. The Brazilian may opt for the in-form Paris Brunner over Mika Biereth. Eric Dier, who had looked like one of those most likely to leave earlier in the summer, is once again expected to start in defence.
Lukas Hradecky; **** nho, Eric Dier, Sadibou Sané, Vanderson; Denis Zakaria, Lamine Camara; Stanis Idumbo, Aleksandr Golovin, Mamadou Coulibaly; Paris Brunner. (L'Éq)
GFFN | Luke Entwistle
#expected #monaco #zakaria #brunner
The Senegal international may not be a Monaco player come Tuesday, but he is expected to start alongside Denis Zakaria. Meanwhile, another player linked with an exit, Folarin Balogun, is out. He has yet to return to fitness since his return from the FIFA World Cup. Ansu Fati is also out injured, whilst Takumi Minamino and Mohamed Salisu are building up their fitness after suffering ACL injuries last season.
Up front, Filipe Luís has a decision to make. The Brazilian may opt for the in-form Paris Brunner over Mika Biereth. Eric Dier, who had looked like one of those most likely to leave earlier in the summer, is once again expected to start in defence.
Lukas Hradecky; **** nho, Eric Dier, Sadibou Sané, Vanderson; Denis Zakaria, Lamine Camara; Stanis Idumbo, Aleksandr Golovin, Mamadou Coulibaly; Paris Brunner. (L'Éq)
GFFN | Luke Entwistle
#expected #monaco #zakaria #brunner
2 months ago
>> DOWNLOAD THE 2026/27 GFFN LIGUE 1 GUIDE HERE
At the dawn of another Ligue 1 season, the divide between PSG and the rest has never been so wide. Les Parisiens, in the wake of their maiden Champions League triumph, weren't expected to be challenged. Lens, in that sense, surprised many. Another challenge, either from Les Sang et Or or from elsewhere, would be welcomed but does not necessarily look forthcoming; the perception of PSG's invincibility has only been enhanced by their second consecutive UCL **** le.
Already the best side in the division, the best in Europe, the best team in French football history, PSG exist on an entirely different plane. They have the best starting XI in world football, and their transfer business attests to that, with the second string now the subject of Luís Campos' attention. The likes of Ferran Torres, Maghnes Akliouche, and Mika Godts look to be upgrades on Goncalo Ramos, Lee Kang-in, and Randal Kolo Muani. These are the types of players that will be regularly trotted out in Ligue 1, allowing the likes of Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Désiré Doué, etc., to save their best performances for those nights under the lights in the UCL.
All the while, the rest of Ligue 1 has, by and large, regressed. Marseille – at the time of writing – have yet to register a single recruit. Hamstrung by restrictions imposed by the DNCG and UEFA, they have been in fire-sale mode. They are guaranteed to begin the season weaker than they ended the last, regardless of what happens in the closing days of the transfer window.
They aren't the only ones. Lens have an Icarus-like quality to them, having run PSG close for the **** le and won their maiden Coupe de France **** le. A little too close to the sun, a little too much success, and they have come crashing down. Pierre Sage has left, as have Adrien Thomasson, Mamadou Sangaré, Malang Sarr, Allan Saint-Maximin, and Welsey Said. Les Sang et Or aren't building from Ground Zero, but the backbone of last season's side has been broken. A replication of last season's success would be miraculous.
#last #maiden #look
At the dawn of another Ligue 1 season, the divide between PSG and the rest has never been so wide. Les Parisiens, in the wake of their maiden Champions League triumph, weren't expected to be challenged. Lens, in that sense, surprised many. Another challenge, either from Les Sang et Or or from elsewhere, would be welcomed but does not necessarily look forthcoming; the perception of PSG's invincibility has only been enhanced by their second consecutive UCL **** le.
Already the best side in the division, the best in Europe, the best team in French football history, PSG exist on an entirely different plane. They have the best starting XI in world football, and their transfer business attests to that, with the second string now the subject of Luís Campos' attention. The likes of Ferran Torres, Maghnes Akliouche, and Mika Godts look to be upgrades on Goncalo Ramos, Lee Kang-in, and Randal Kolo Muani. These are the types of players that will be regularly trotted out in Ligue 1, allowing the likes of Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Désiré Doué, etc., to save their best performances for those nights under the lights in the UCL.
All the while, the rest of Ligue 1 has, by and large, regressed. Marseille – at the time of writing – have yet to register a single recruit. Hamstrung by restrictions imposed by the DNCG and UEFA, they have been in fire-sale mode. They are guaranteed to begin the season weaker than they ended the last, regardless of what happens in the closing days of the transfer window.
They aren't the only ones. Lens have an Icarus-like quality to them, having run PSG close for the **** le and won their maiden Coupe de France **** le. A little too close to the sun, a little too much success, and they have come crashing down. Pierre Sage has left, as have Adrien Thomasson, Mamadou Sangaré, Malang Sarr, Allan Saint-Maximin, and Welsey Said. Les Sang et Or aren't building from Ground Zero, but the backbone of last season's side has been broken. A replication of last season's success would be miraculous.
#last #maiden #look
2 months ago
CONAKRY, Guinea (AP) — A mountainous heap of refuse collapsed at the largest landfill in Guinea 's capital of Conakry early on Sunday, killing 30 people, according to the central government.
Authorities said that heavy rains, which started at around 2 a.m., washed over the refuse at Dar Es Salam — the largest landfill in Conakry — and triggered a landslide that buried nearby shacks. A search and rescue operation was underway to find survivors. Six people were seriously injured and several homes were destroyed.
The site, an open-air waste dump which is the largest in the city, had been designated for closure on Sunday, according to Lt. Col. Baldé Mamadou Bailo, the sanitation officer for the military engineering battalion.
Locals living around the landfill had been given eviction notices, which forced many to leave the area, but many others were still around at the time of the disaster, according to authorities.
"We will ensure that the remaining families are relocated elsewhere," Dienabou Touré, the minister of territorial administration and decentralization, said at the scene.
#landfill #guinea
Authorities said that heavy rains, which started at around 2 a.m., washed over the refuse at Dar Es Salam — the largest landfill in Conakry — and triggered a landslide that buried nearby shacks. A search and rescue operation was underway to find survivors. Six people were seriously injured and several homes were destroyed.
The site, an open-air waste dump which is the largest in the city, had been designated for closure on Sunday, according to Lt. Col. Baldé Mamadou Bailo, the sanitation officer for the military engineering battalion.
Locals living around the landfill had been given eviction notices, which forced many to leave the area, but many others were still around at the time of the disaster, according to authorities.
"We will ensure that the remaining families are relocated elsewhere," Dienabou Touré, the minister of territorial administration and decentralization, said at the scene.
#landfill #guinea
2 months ago
Chelsea are close to securing another loan deal for a defender, with a La Liga move on the cards for Mamadou Sarr.
If you enjoy Talk Chelsea coverage and want to see more of it, add us as a preferred source on Google to make us a favourite and see more of our content.
Chelsea are in the middle of playing Fulham right now, but that hasn't stopped some serious transfer action in the background.
A number of deals have advanced today, and for once we had one not broken by Fabrizio Romano. It was Santi Aouna of Footmercato's turn today, and he had a report on the loan deal for Mamadou Sarr. A deal is done for Sarr to join Real Sociedad on loan without a buy option.
Interestingly, Xabi Alonso is said to have played a "key role" in helping the player choose his old club as his destination.
#deal #mamadou #talk #Google
If you enjoy Talk Chelsea coverage and want to see more of it, add us as a preferred source on Google to make us a favourite and see more of our content.
Chelsea are in the middle of playing Fulham right now, but that hasn't stopped some serious transfer action in the background.
A number of deals have advanced today, and for once we had one not broken by Fabrizio Romano. It was Santi Aouna of Footmercato's turn today, and he had a report on the loan deal for Mamadou Sarr. A deal is done for Sarr to join Real Sociedad on loan without a buy option.
Interestingly, Xabi Alonso is said to have played a "key role" in helping the player choose his old club as his destination.
#deal #mamadou #talk #Google
2 months ago
Chelsea and Real Sociedad have reached an agreement over Mamadou Sarr's (20) loan move to the Basque side, according to Foot Mercato. The Senegalese international centre-back's loan move includes no option to buy. Sarr joined Chelsea from BlueCo-owned Ligue 1 side RC Strasbourg in a €14m deal in the 2025 summer transfer window. Sarr was then allowed to spend the following campaign on loan at Strasbourg, until Chelsea recalled him in February.
Sarr only featured seven times for the Blues. The former Olympique Lyonnais Academy graduate has been allowed to leave Xabi Alonso's Chelsea side this summer with the Blues recruiting Maxence Lacroix from Premier League rivals Crystal Palace FC. Foot Mercato understands that Alonso, a former Real Sociedad midfielder, has proved instrumental in convincing Sarr to join the Basque side.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
#basque
Sarr only featured seven times for the Blues. The former Olympique Lyonnais Academy graduate has been allowed to leave Xabi Alonso's Chelsea side this summer with the Blues recruiting Maxence Lacroix from Premier League rivals Crystal Palace FC. Foot Mercato understands that Alonso, a former Real Sociedad midfielder, has proved instrumental in convincing Sarr to join the Basque side.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
#basque
2 months ago
>> DOWNLOAD THE 2026/27 GFFN LIGUE 1 GUIDE HERE
At the dawn of another Ligue 1 season, the divide between PSG and the rest has never been so wide. Les Parisiens, in the wake of their maiden Champions League triumph, weren't expected to be challenged. Lens, in that sense, surprised many. Another challenge, either from Les Sang et Or or from elsewhere, would be welcomed but does not necessarily look forthcoming; the perception of PSG's invincibility has only been enhanced by their second consecutive UCL ******* le.
Already the best side in the division, the best in Europe, the best team in French football history, PSG exist on an entirely different plane. They have the best starting XI in world football, and their transfer business attests to that, with the second string now the subject of Luís Campos' attention. The likes of Ferran Torres, Maghnes Akliouche, and Mika Godts look to be upgrades on Goncalo Ramos, Lee Kang-in, and Randal Kolo Muani. These are the types of players that will be regularly trotted out in Ligue 1, allowing the likes of Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Désiré Doué, etc., to save their best performances for those nights under the lights in the UCL.
All the while, the rest of Ligue 1 has, by and large, regressed. Marseille – at the time of writing – have yet to register a single recruit. Hamstrung by restrictions imposed by the DNCG and UEFA, they have been in fire-sale mode. They are guaranteed to begin the season weaker than they ended the last, regardless of what happens in the closing days of the transfer window.
They aren't the only ones. Lens have an Icarus-like quality to them, having run PSG close for the ******* le and won their maiden Coupe de France ******* le. A little too close to the sun, a little too much success, and they have come crashing down. Pierre Sage has left, as have Adrien Thomasson, Mamadou Sangaré, Malang Sarr, Allan Saint-Maximin, and Welsey Said. Les Sang et Or aren't building from Ground Zero, but the backbone of last season's side has been broken. A replication of last season's success would be miraculous.
#look
At the dawn of another Ligue 1 season, the divide between PSG and the rest has never been so wide. Les Parisiens, in the wake of their maiden Champions League triumph, weren't expected to be challenged. Lens, in that sense, surprised many. Another challenge, either from Les Sang et Or or from elsewhere, would be welcomed but does not necessarily look forthcoming; the perception of PSG's invincibility has only been enhanced by their second consecutive UCL ******* le.
Already the best side in the division, the best in Europe, the best team in French football history, PSG exist on an entirely different plane. They have the best starting XI in world football, and their transfer business attests to that, with the second string now the subject of Luís Campos' attention. The likes of Ferran Torres, Maghnes Akliouche, and Mika Godts look to be upgrades on Goncalo Ramos, Lee Kang-in, and Randal Kolo Muani. These are the types of players that will be regularly trotted out in Ligue 1, allowing the likes of Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Désiré Doué, etc., to save their best performances for those nights under the lights in the UCL.
All the while, the rest of Ligue 1 has, by and large, regressed. Marseille – at the time of writing – have yet to register a single recruit. Hamstrung by restrictions imposed by the DNCG and UEFA, they have been in fire-sale mode. They are guaranteed to begin the season weaker than they ended the last, regardless of what happens in the closing days of the transfer window.
They aren't the only ones. Lens have an Icarus-like quality to them, having run PSG close for the ******* le and won their maiden Coupe de France ******* le. A little too close to the sun, a little too much success, and they have come crashing down. Pierre Sage has left, as have Adrien Thomasson, Mamadou Sangaré, Malang Sarr, Allan Saint-Maximin, and Welsey Said. Les Sang et Or aren't building from Ground Zero, but the backbone of last season's side has been broken. A replication of last season's success would be miraculous.
#look
2 months ago
Tottenham Hotspur suffered a crushing defeat in their opening Premier League game against Brentford following a despicable performance.
Spurs were thoroughly swept aside by their city counterparts, and alarm bells will be ringing that this could be another difficult campaign ahead.
Several Tottenham players played below par. Lucas Bergvall was hooked following a first-half horror show while captain Archie Gray never looked comfortable at the back.
However, the more frustrating performance of the day came from £100 million signing Sandro Tonali, who never quite managed to give Spurs a hold in the game.
The Italian international star was 'utterly outshone and overpowered by Brentford's record buy Mamadou Sangare.'
#following
Spurs were thoroughly swept aside by their city counterparts, and alarm bells will be ringing that this could be another difficult campaign ahead.
Several Tottenham players played below par. Lucas Bergvall was hooked following a first-half horror show while captain Archie Gray never looked comfortable at the back.
However, the more frustrating performance of the day came from £100 million signing Sandro Tonali, who never quite managed to give Spurs a hold in the game.
The Italian international star was 'utterly outshone and overpowered by Brentford's record buy Mamadou Sangare.'
#following
3 months ago
Tottenham Hotspur fans would have been expectant of great things coming into this season. Roberto De Zerbi had the squad performing admirably at the conclusion of last season as the club narrowly avoided relegation, and a strong preseason campaign combined with a flurry of activity in the transfer market seemed to herald a new dawn for the North London club. Instead, Spurs looked all at sea in their opening match of the 2026/27 season, crashing to a 3-0 defeat as they were dominated in all facets by a buoyant Brentford side.
Spurs' starting XI was much as expected, in line with the side De Zerbi had used in preseason accounting for absences due to World Cup duties, fitness, and injury. Mikey Moore made his second Spurs start on the right wing while Archie Gray captained the side, lining up at right back. He rounded out a new-look backline, with Gray, Jan Paul van Hecke, Marcos Senesi, and Andy Robertson making up the back four. Keith Andrews named a strong side of his own, with new signing Mamadou Sangare lining up in midfield for Brentford and no room for Mikel Damsgaard, such was the quality of Brentford's other attacking options.
The first half was all Brentford, with Spurs looking all at sea. The home side nearly opened the scoring early via a set piece, as Andy Robertson's defensive header deflected narrowly over the crossbar, before Nathan Collins couldn't direct a header of his own on target. The chances kept coming for Brentford, as Keane Lewis-Potter easily beat Archie Gray to deliver a cross that was fortunate to not be directed by Jan Paul van Hecke into his own goal.
Brentford finally made their domination count. Mamadou Sangare played a one-two with Dango Outtara, as both Lucas Bergvall and Andy Robertson failed to track the run of the Malian midfielder. Outtara squared simply for Lewis-Potter, who was open on the penalty spot for essentially a tap-in.
It wasn't long before Brentford doubled their lead. Richarlison's pass back to Bergvall was loose with the Swede then too casual taking the ball in possession, losing out to Mathias Jensen. The Dane ripped a shot from the top of the 18-yard box and Antonin Kinsky made a meal of it, seemingly misjudging the direction of the shot as he reached back across his body to make the save. The Czech keeper succeeded only in palming the ball out to Vitaly Janelt who finished comfortable from close range. Spurs were stunned, and Brentford took a 2-0 lead into the half.
#brentford #back #andy #archie
Spurs' starting XI was much as expected, in line with the side De Zerbi had used in preseason accounting for absences due to World Cup duties, fitness, and injury. Mikey Moore made his second Spurs start on the right wing while Archie Gray captained the side, lining up at right back. He rounded out a new-look backline, with Gray, Jan Paul van Hecke, Marcos Senesi, and Andy Robertson making up the back four. Keith Andrews named a strong side of his own, with new signing Mamadou Sangare lining up in midfield for Brentford and no room for Mikel Damsgaard, such was the quality of Brentford's other attacking options.
The first half was all Brentford, with Spurs looking all at sea. The home side nearly opened the scoring early via a set piece, as Andy Robertson's defensive header deflected narrowly over the crossbar, before Nathan Collins couldn't direct a header of his own on target. The chances kept coming for Brentford, as Keane Lewis-Potter easily beat Archie Gray to deliver a cross that was fortunate to not be directed by Jan Paul van Hecke into his own goal.
Brentford finally made their domination count. Mamadou Sangare played a one-two with Dango Outtara, as both Lucas Bergvall and Andy Robertson failed to track the run of the Malian midfielder. Outtara squared simply for Lewis-Potter, who was open on the penalty spot for essentially a tap-in.
It wasn't long before Brentford doubled their lead. Richarlison's pass back to Bergvall was loose with the Swede then too casual taking the ball in possession, losing out to Mathias Jensen. The Dane ripped a shot from the top of the 18-yard box and Antonin Kinsky made a meal of it, seemingly misjudging the direction of the shot as he reached back across his body to make the save. The Czech keeper succeeded only in palming the ball out to Vitaly Janelt who finished comfortable from close range. Spurs were stunned, and Brentford took a 2-0 lead into the half.
#brentford #back #andy #archie
3 months ago
Chelsea have reportedly put young defender Mamadou Sarr on the transfer market, according to transfer news specialist Sacha Tavolieri.
The Blues signed him last year and brought him to Stamford Bridge in January, but he has not lived up to expectations.
Chelsea were dealing with defensive issues, and former boss Enzo Maresca called for centre-backs, but the sporting hierarchy did not listen.
They had signed Sarr from French side Strasbourg for £12 million in June on an eight-year deal, leaving him on loan, and didn't want to spend any more in that position.
Unfortunately, since joining in January, the Chelsea ace has not moved the needle. He is weak in the air and has failed to grasp the pace of the Premier League.
#Chelsea #transfer #mamadou
The Blues signed him last year and brought him to Stamford Bridge in January, but he has not lived up to expectations.
Chelsea were dealing with defensive issues, and former boss Enzo Maresca called for centre-backs, but the sporting hierarchy did not listen.
They had signed Sarr from French side Strasbourg for £12 million in June on an eight-year deal, leaving him on loan, and didn't want to spend any more in that position.
Unfortunately, since joining in January, the Chelsea ace has not moved the needle. He is weak in the air and has failed to grasp the pace of the Premier League.
#Chelsea #transfer #mamadou
3 months ago
Brentford boss Keith Andrews says his side are "in a good place" going into the new Premier League season.
The Bees rounded off their pre-season schedule in style with an impressive 7-0 home win over Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday, with attackers Kevin Schade, Igor Thiago, Dango Ouattara and Keane Lewis-Potter all on target.
New record signing Mamadou Sangare also found the net, while fellow summer additions Callum Wilson and Jaidon Anthony both also featured.
"It was a really good pre-season full stop," said Andrews post-match.
"I'm really content with the way we're moving as a group, the standards we set, the way the players pushed, and there were some really impressive performances today.
#season #impressive #league
The Bees rounded off their pre-season schedule in style with an impressive 7-0 home win over Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday, with attackers Kevin Schade, Igor Thiago, Dango Ouattara and Keane Lewis-Potter all on target.
New record signing Mamadou Sangare also found the net, while fellow summer additions Callum Wilson and Jaidon Anthony both also featured.
"It was a really good pre-season full stop," said Andrews post-match.
"I'm really content with the way we're moving as a group, the standards we set, the way the players pushed, and there were some really impressive performances today.
#season #impressive #league
3 months ago
Brentford finished their pre-season smashing seven past Eintracht Frankfurt at the Indeed Invitational at the Gtech Community Stadium winning 7-0.
They go into their opening Premier League fixture at home to Spurs following a glut of goals.
The Bundesliga side, who had won all five of their previous pre-season games and finished eighth in the Bundesliga last season, were put to the sword in West London in front of more than 13,000 fans.
Braces from Kevin Schade and Igor Thiago, a home debut goal for Mamadou Sangaré and strikes from Keane Lewis-Potter and Dango Ouattara will have made some head turns even during pre-season.
Shade scored the opener after just two minutes, Sangaré volleyed from just outside the box after 12 minutes and Igor Thiago tapped the ball into an open goal to make it 3-0 at the half.
#igor #sangar #home #minutes
They go into their opening Premier League fixture at home to Spurs following a glut of goals.
The Bundesliga side, who had won all five of their previous pre-season games and finished eighth in the Bundesliga last season, were put to the sword in West London in front of more than 13,000 fans.
Braces from Kevin Schade and Igor Thiago, a home debut goal for Mamadou Sangaré and strikes from Keane Lewis-Potter and Dango Ouattara will have made some head turns even during pre-season.
Shade scored the opener after just two minutes, Sangaré volleyed from just outside the box after 12 minutes and Igor Thiago tapped the ball into an open goal to make it 3-0 at the half.
#igor #sangar #home #minutes
3 months ago
Brentford FC have signed Lens defensive midfielder Mamadou Sangaré (24), both clubs have announced. The Malian international's €48m transfer represents a club-record deal for both Lens and Brentford. Sangaré has signed a five-year contract with Keith Andrews's Bees, who were in the market for a midfielder after parting ways with Chelsea-bound England international Jordan Henderson.
Signed last summer in a €8m deal from Rapid Vienna, Sangaré impressed for Pierre Sage's Lens, with his all-energy displays earning rave reviews. Sangaré was a mainstay for Les Sang in Or in their push towards UEFA Champions League football and their maiden Coupe de France ***** re.
The Malian won the 2026 Marc-Vivien Foé Award, which is presented annually to the best African player in Ligue 1, and was deservedly billed as GFFN's Signing of the Season.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
#brentford #mamadou
Signed last summer in a €8m deal from Rapid Vienna, Sangaré impressed for Pierre Sage's Lens, with his all-energy displays earning rave reviews. Sangaré was a mainstay for Les Sang in Or in their push towards UEFA Champions League football and their maiden Coupe de France ***** re.
The Malian won the 2026 Marc-Vivien Foé Award, which is presented annually to the best African player in Ligue 1, and was deservedly billed as GFFN's Signing of the Season.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
#brentford #mamadou
3 months ago
Brentford head coach Keith Andrews says club-record signing Mamadou Sangare "fits everything we want from a player".
The Lens midfielder, who was included in Ligue 1's 2025-26 Team of the Year, has signed a five-year contract with a club option for a further year.
Sangare made 33 appearances in all competitions last season, helping Lens to a second-place finish in Ligue 1 and to a first-ever Coupe de France ***** le.
"He is a player we have tracked for quite some time," Andrews said. "He has been on our radar and he was a player we were really keen to bring in.
"Last season was a huge one for him, following a couple of loan spells during which he developed.
#player #andrews #season
The Lens midfielder, who was included in Ligue 1's 2025-26 Team of the Year, has signed a five-year contract with a club option for a further year.
Sangare made 33 appearances in all competitions last season, helping Lens to a second-place finish in Ligue 1 and to a first-ever Coupe de France ***** le.
"He is a player we have tracked for quite some time," Andrews said. "He has been on our radar and he was a player we were really keen to bring in.
"Last season was a huge one for him, following a couple of loan spells during which he developed.
#player #andrews #season
3 months ago
Brentford have completed the club-record signing of midfielder Mamadou Sangaré from Lens.
The 24-year-old has signed a five-year contract with the option for a further year for a fee of around £42m.
His arrival follows the departure of Jordan Henderson, who is expected to join Chelsea.
Brentford head coach Keith Andrews said: "Mamadou is someone that we've tracked for quite some time. He's been on our radar and was a player we were really keen to bring in.
"Last season was a huge season for him following a couple of loan spells during which he developed. At Lens, he performed at such a consistently high level for a team that finished second in the league.
#lens #jordan #Chelsea #keith
The 24-year-old has signed a five-year contract with the option for a further year for a fee of around £42m.
His arrival follows the departure of Jordan Henderson, who is expected to join Chelsea.
Brentford head coach Keith Andrews said: "Mamadou is someone that we've tracked for quite some time. He's been on our radar and was a player we were really keen to bring in.
"Last season was a huge season for him following a couple of loan spells during which he developed. At Lens, he performed at such a consistently high level for a team that finished second in the league.
#lens #jordan #Chelsea #keith
3 months ago
Mamadou Sangare is set to undergo a medical with Brentford today ahead of a potential £41m transfer from RC Lens.
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Fabrizio Romano reports on X (formerly Twitter) that the Bees have secured a "verbal agreement" with the midfielder.
While no explicit links to Liverpool have emerged, it has been previously suggested by the reliable Dominic King that FSG would have been aware of the Ligue 1 star's talents. Particularly so at a time when the Reds are thought to be keen on adding a holding six to the squad.
And so… another one bites the dust for Liverpool's recruitment team.
#download #latest #breaking
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL EMPIRE OF THE KOP APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Fabrizio Romano reports on X (formerly Twitter) that the Bees have secured a "verbal agreement" with the midfielder.
While no explicit links to Liverpool have emerged, it has been previously suggested by the reliable Dominic King that FSG would have been aware of the Ligue 1 star's talents. Particularly so at a time when the Reds are thought to be keen on adding a holding six to the squad.
And so… another one bites the dust for Liverpool's recruitment team.
#download #latest #breaking
3 months ago
Chelsea have signed Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix (26), both clubs have announced. The two London-based Premier League sides reportedly agreed to a €60m transfer fee for the France international defender. Lacroix has signed a six-year deal with Xabi Alonso's Blues. The former Sochaux and Wolfsburg centre-back underwent his medical on Friday.
Chelsea were in the market for a centre-back due to the uncertainty regarding the futures of several of their defenders, such as Mamadou Sarr, Wesley Fofana or Benoît Badiashile. The Blues went for a Premier League-proven centre-back in Lacroix.
Lacroix only needed two seasons with the Eagles to become one of the league most reliable centre-backs. He joined the South London side in 2024 from Wolfsburg and went on to win the 2025 Emirates FA Cup, the 2025 Community Shield and the 2025-2026 Conference League, totalling 98 appearances across two campaigns with Palace. Lacroix's performances earned him a spot in Didier Deschamps' France World Cup squad.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
#france
Chelsea were in the market for a centre-back due to the uncertainty regarding the futures of several of their defenders, such as Mamadou Sarr, Wesley Fofana or Benoît Badiashile. The Blues went for a Premier League-proven centre-back in Lacroix.
Lacroix only needed two seasons with the Eagles to become one of the league most reliable centre-backs. He joined the South London side in 2024 from Wolfsburg and went on to win the 2025 Emirates FA Cup, the 2025 Community Shield and the 2025-2026 Conference League, totalling 98 appearances across two campaigns with Palace. Lacroix's performances earned him a spot in Didier Deschamps' France World Cup squad.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
#france
3 months ago
According to a report from L'Équipe, Mamadou Sangaré (24) has left RC Lens's squad as he closes in on a move to Brentford FC.
The Mali international was with the Lens squad in Italy as they participated in the Como Cup, albeit he was not involved in the two matches on Tuesday. He'll also no longer be available for the friendly against Villarreal on Saturday, as he has travelled to Paris ahead of the transfer to the Premier League side being finalised.
The midfielder, who arrived last summer on a €5m plus €3m in bonuses move from Austrian side Rapid Vienna, is set to break transfer records for both Lens and Brentford in a reported €48m transfer. He'll be Lens's biggest ever sale and Brentford's largest ever purchase.
In his sole season in the north of France, Sangaré was one of the standout performers, helping Lens win their maiden Coupe de France and secure automatic qualification to the UEFA Champions League after running Paris Saint-Germain close to the ******* le.
GFFN | Nick Hartland
#transfer #Paris #league
The Mali international was with the Lens squad in Italy as they participated in the Como Cup, albeit he was not involved in the two matches on Tuesday. He'll also no longer be available for the friendly against Villarreal on Saturday, as he has travelled to Paris ahead of the transfer to the Premier League side being finalised.
The midfielder, who arrived last summer on a €5m plus €3m in bonuses move from Austrian side Rapid Vienna, is set to break transfer records for both Lens and Brentford in a reported €48m transfer. He'll be Lens's biggest ever sale and Brentford's largest ever purchase.
In his sole season in the north of France, Sangaré was one of the standout performers, helping Lens win their maiden Coupe de France and secure automatic qualification to the UEFA Champions League after running Paris Saint-Germain close to the ******* le.
GFFN | Nick Hartland
#transfer #Paris #league
3 months ago
Brentford are moving decisively in the market, with Evening Standard reporting that the club are "closing in on a deal to sign Lens midfielder Mamadou Sangare as a replacement for Jordan Henderson". It is understood the Bees are making real progress, with talks described as advanced and confidence growing internally that an agreement can be reached.
The proposed package is significant. Sangare "would cost around €45million (£38.5m)", a figure that would place him among the biggest investments in Brentford's history and potentially make him the club's record signing. That alone underlines how seriously Brentford are treating this next step, particularly after Henderson's situation shifted quickly. The report adds that Brentford have alternatives in mind if negotiations hit a snag, but for now Sangare appears the leading option.
The 24-year-old brings a strong profile. He has four years left on his contract, has already earned 16 caps for Mali, and made five appearances at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. At club level, he helped Lens lift the Coupe De France, with Pierre Sage, now at Crystal Palace, also linked to the player. Palace's interest is said to be ongoing, which may sharpen the timetable if Brentford want to get this over the line.
Photo: IMAGO
Sangare's journey has been steady and upward. He made "his senior debut at Red Bull Salzburg", took in loan spells in Austria and Belgium, moved to Rapid Wien, then earned his switch to Lens. Last season, he "scored three times in 33 appearances", suggesting his game offers more than simple ball-winning. Brentford will likely value mobility, tactical discipline and room for further growth as much as the headline numbers.
#lens #earned
The proposed package is significant. Sangare "would cost around €45million (£38.5m)", a figure that would place him among the biggest investments in Brentford's history and potentially make him the club's record signing. That alone underlines how seriously Brentford are treating this next step, particularly after Henderson's situation shifted quickly. The report adds that Brentford have alternatives in mind if negotiations hit a snag, but for now Sangare appears the leading option.
The 24-year-old brings a strong profile. He has four years left on his contract, has already earned 16 caps for Mali, and made five appearances at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. At club level, he helped Lens lift the Coupe De France, with Pierre Sage, now at Crystal Palace, also linked to the player. Palace's interest is said to be ongoing, which may sharpen the timetable if Brentford want to get this over the line.
Photo: IMAGO
Sangare's journey has been steady and upward. He made "his senior debut at Red Bull Salzburg", took in loan spells in Austria and Belgium, moved to Rapid Wien, then earned his switch to Lens. Last season, he "scored three times in 33 appearances", suggesting his game offers more than simple ball-winning. Brentford will likely value mobility, tactical discipline and room for further growth as much as the headline numbers.
#lens #earned
3 months ago
Brentford are moving with intent in the market and Mamadou Sangaré has emerged as a leading target as the club reshapes its midfield ahead of the new season. According to L'Equipe, discussions with RC Lens are at an advanced stage over a deal worth €48m for the 24-year-old defensive midfielder.
The report points to a process that has been building quietly over recent weeks, with contact maintained between the clubs while Brentford prepare for the expected departure of Jordan Henderson, who is heading towards Chelsea. In that context, Sangaré appears to fit a clear recruitment brief, a midfielder capable of protecting the back line, covering ground and bringing authority in central areas.
Photo IMAGO
Sangaré's stock has risen sharply after an impressive Ligue 1 campaign. He played a major role in Lens putting together an excellent season, helping drive their push for Champions League qualification and contributing to their Coupe de France success. That form has placed him firmly on the radar of Premier League clubs, and Brentford seem to have acted decisively.
What stands out here is the level of progress. This does not read like early-stage interest or background admiration. With an agreement described as close, Brentford appear to be working towards the final steps of a significant signing, one that would represent a major investment at €48m.
#brentford #season #stage #towards
The report points to a process that has been building quietly over recent weeks, with contact maintained between the clubs while Brentford prepare for the expected departure of Jordan Henderson, who is heading towards Chelsea. In that context, Sangaré appears to fit a clear recruitment brief, a midfielder capable of protecting the back line, covering ground and bringing authority in central areas.
Photo IMAGO
Sangaré's stock has risen sharply after an impressive Ligue 1 campaign. He played a major role in Lens putting together an excellent season, helping drive their push for Champions League qualification and contributing to their Coupe de France success. That form has placed him firmly on the radar of Premier League clubs, and Brentford seem to have acted decisively.
What stands out here is the level of progress. This does not read like early-stage interest or background admiration. With an agreement described as close, Brentford appear to be working towards the final steps of a significant signing, one that would represent a major investment at €48m.
#brentford #season #stage #towards
3 months ago
Brentford are closing in on the signing of RC Lens midfielder Mamadou Sangare after reaching an agreement in principle with the French club.
According to Foot Mercato, the Bees have agreed a package worth €48 million plus bonuses and a percentage of any future sale for the 24-year-old.
The transfer has not yet been completed, with the final details still to be resolved, but Brentford are now considered favourites to secure the Mali international's signature.
Crystal Palace have also been linked with Sangare in recent weeks, although they would now need to make a late intervention to prevent the midfielder from moving to west London.
The proposed fee would make Sangare Brentford's most expensive signing.
#make #lens #foot
According to Foot Mercato, the Bees have agreed a package worth €48 million plus bonuses and a percentage of any future sale for the 24-year-old.
The transfer has not yet been completed, with the final details still to be resolved, but Brentford are now considered favourites to secure the Mali international's signature.
Crystal Palace have also been linked with Sangare in recent weeks, although they would now need to make a late intervention to prevent the midfielder from moving to west London.
The proposed fee would make Sangare Brentford's most expensive signing.
#make #lens #foot
4 months ago
Chelsea defender Mamadou Sarr is attracting interest from Como, with the Serie A side intensifying direct contact to sign the player, per Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Blues will likely be open to a deal, as the Senegalese star has struggled to nail down a starting spot at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea signed the 20-year-old from sister club Strasbourg and brought him to West London in January when they needed a solution to their injury and defensive woes.
Unfortunately, he struggled to get going under then Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior and interim manager Calum McFarlane.
While he reads the game well enough on the ground, he is not particularly imposing enough and struggles in the air.
The Blues will likely be open to a deal, as the Senegalese star has struggled to nail down a starting spot at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea signed the 20-year-old from sister club Strasbourg and brought him to West London in January when they needed a solution to their injury and defensive woes.
Unfortunately, he struggled to get going under then Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior and interim manager Calum McFarlane.
While he reads the game well enough on the ground, he is not particularly imposing enough and struggles in the air.
4 months ago
Chelsea have opened talks to sign Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix, according to Fabrizio Romano. He is also open to joining the Stamford Bridge club.
The Blues are expected to strengthen at the heart of their defence this summer after an inconsistent campaign in which injuries and underwhelming performances exposed the rearguard.
Lacroix has emerged as one of the club’s leading targets following an impressive season in the Premier League.
Chelsea’s backline struggled whenever Levi Colwill was unavailable.
Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, Wesley Fofana and Mamadou Sarr all failed to establish themselves as dependable options over the course of the season.
The Blues are expected to strengthen at the heart of their defence this summer after an inconsistent campaign in which injuries and underwhelming performances exposed the rearguard.
Lacroix has emerged as one of the club’s leading targets following an impressive season in the Premier League.
Chelsea’s backline struggled whenever Levi Colwill was unavailable.
Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, Wesley Fofana and Mamadou Sarr all failed to establish themselves as dependable options over the course of the season.
5 months ago
Senegal crashed to yet another mistake-filled defeat, 3-2 to Norway, giving up three goals once again just like in their first game to leave their World Cup fates hanging in the balance. They’ll need a win against Iraq in the final game just to have a chance of finishing among the better third-place teams, and will likely need to work on improving that goal difference as well.
The fact that Mamadou Sarr has gotten zero minutes so far despite their defense looking so shaky — ex-Chelsea man Kalidou Koulibaly in particular — is a bit of a head-scratcher, especially after Sarr was so key for them in the final rounds of the Africa Cup of Nations.
On the plus side, Nicolas Jackson got himself a goal contribution, setting up Senegal’s goal in stoppage time, which put the outcome briefly in doubt. But they couldn’t find a third, giving Norway all three points and a guaranteed spot in the Round of 32, along with France.
Erling Haaland made it four goals in two career World Cup games in the process, matching the daily output of both Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi earlier in the day — the former equaling Miroslav Klose’s record for most World Cup goals all time, and the latter breaking it emphatically. Messi’s now on 18; Mbappé’s on 16. Messi may yet win the Golden Boot in this World Cup, but eventually the record will surely be Kylian’s, considering he’s over a decade younger.
Neither France nor Argentina had much trouble with their opponents: Les Bleus easily dispatching Iraq, 3-0 (Malo Gusto played the final ten or so) and Argentina never really facing any threat from Austria in a 2-0 win.
The fact that Mamadou Sarr has gotten zero minutes so far despite their defense looking so shaky — ex-Chelsea man Kalidou Koulibaly in particular — is a bit of a head-scratcher, especially after Sarr was so key for them in the final rounds of the Africa Cup of Nations.
On the plus side, Nicolas Jackson got himself a goal contribution, setting up Senegal’s goal in stoppage time, which put the outcome briefly in doubt. But they couldn’t find a third, giving Norway all three points and a guaranteed spot in the Round of 32, along with France.
Erling Haaland made it four goals in two career World Cup games in the process, matching the daily output of both Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi earlier in the day — the former equaling Miroslav Klose’s record for most World Cup goals all time, and the latter breaking it emphatically. Messi’s now on 18; Mbappé’s on 16. Messi may yet win the Golden Boot in this World Cup, but eventually the record will surely be Kylian’s, considering he’s over a decade younger.
Neither France nor Argentina had much trouble with their opponents: Les Bleus easily dispatching Iraq, 3-0 (Malo Gusto played the final ten or so) and Argentina never really facing any threat from Austria in a 2-0 win.
