2 months ago
"He knows his role in the team. Serhou Guirassy is our number one striker. He is the challenger." With these clear words, Niko Kovač made it plain at the press conference ahead of the season opener against Hamburger SV who is in charge in Dortmund's attack. But in football, two weeks can feel like an eternity. By now, the black-and-yellow world looks very different.
Because Fabio Silva has now become so important that he could even prompt a system change at Dortmund. Guirassy himself also raved about his competitor. "Fabio Silva and I really enjoy playing together and we have a lot of fun in training. He is a great player," he said after the Champions League win against Villarreal to the microphone of 'Amazon Prime'.
You can see what else the two say about each other here in the video.
Coach Kovač was also full of praise after the win against the Spaniards. Fabio Silva repeatedly worked his way into clear-cut chances and rewarded himself for his effort. "You can see that we can play this system with two strikers just as well as with one striker. If we now add Fabio (Silva, editor's note) alongside Serhou (Guirassy, editor's note) too - and we will - then we really have something special," said the BVB coach happily.
Few would probably have expected the Portuguese forward to be receiving this kind of praise right now. In the summer, there were rumors about a transfer because Silva had only rarely been able to meet expectations. According to 'Sky', the Bundesliga club would have been open to talks starting at a fee of 20 million euros. Both a loan and a sale were reportedly considered.
#serhou #coach #clear #himself
Because Fabio Silva has now become so important that he could even prompt a system change at Dortmund. Guirassy himself also raved about his competitor. "Fabio Silva and I really enjoy playing together and we have a lot of fun in training. He is a great player," he said after the Champions League win against Villarreal to the microphone of 'Amazon Prime'.
You can see what else the two say about each other here in the video.
Coach Kovač was also full of praise after the win against the Spaniards. Fabio Silva repeatedly worked his way into clear-cut chances and rewarded himself for his effort. "You can see that we can play this system with two strikers just as well as with one striker. If we now add Fabio (Silva, editor's note) alongside Serhou (Guirassy, editor's note) too - and we will - then we really have something special," said the BVB coach happily.
Few would probably have expected the Portuguese forward to be receiving this kind of praise right now. In the summer, there were rumors about a transfer because Silva had only rarely been able to meet expectations. According to 'Sky', the Bundesliga club would have been open to talks starting at a fee of 20 million euros. Both a loan and a sale were reportedly considered.
#serhou #coach #clear #himself
2 months ago
Ben Stokes is set to make his mark in the Big Bash League with the Adelaide Strikers, and coach Tim Paine believes the England all-rounder could be particularly effective if he opens the batting.
Stokes' one-year deal with the Strikers was confirmed on Tuesday, making him available for the entire BBL season. Paine believes the 35-year-old can make an impact across all three departments while also bringing his leadership experience to the side. The Strikers had Matt Short and Chris Lynn as their regular opening combination last season, but Lynn is currently off contract, meaning the pair could be split up even if he returns to the franchise.
Paine sees Stokes as an ideal candidate to take the new ball with the bat, particularly on Australia's traditionally pace-friendly and bouncy pitches.
"Stokes gives us a lot of flexibility. I think initially my chats around how we would use him would probably be opening the batting. I think he's made to open the batting in Big Bash. I think the pacy, bouncy wickets in Australia really suit him," Paine said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
The former Australia captain also highlighted Stokes' ability to attack all areas of the ground and change the momentum of an innings almost instantly.
"I have been on the end of a couple of these devastating innings in Test cricket where you feel like you cannot defend the field. He can play 360 degrees. He has got power. He has got some real class," he added.
Although Stokes has opened in only 16 of his 148 T20 innings, the numbers suggest he is at his most productive in that role. He averages 36.53 and has a strike rate of 138.48 as an opener. One of his two T20 centuries also came while opening, when he smashed an unbeaten 107 off 60 ****** for Rajasthan Royals in the 2020 IPL. His other T20 century came for Rising Pune Supergiant in 2017, when he scored 103 off 63 deliveries.
However, much of Stokes' T20 career has seen him bat at No. 3, 4 or 5. He has not played a T20 match since The Hundred in 2024, where he managed only four runs across three innings.
"I think he can do a terrific job opening the batting. Playing pretty normally, as we have seen in the past, he can flick a switch, and he has got amazing power. His skill level with the bat and his play of spin, he has just a well-rounded, world-class batter. We think that is probably the best fit for him and for us," Paine said.
Paine also believes Stokes could have an impact with the ball, suggesting his pace and ability to move the ball could make him a useful option in different phases of an innings.
"He is a bit quicker than people think. He has got great skill. He can swing the ball both ways. We feel like we can use him in all phases of the game with the ball as well. He will impact in the field with his athleticism and just the way he competes," he said.
Stokes has taken 352 wickets for England across international cricket, with his best figures of 6/22 highlighting his ability to produc
Stokes' one-year deal with the Strikers was confirmed on Tuesday, making him available for the entire BBL season. Paine believes the 35-year-old can make an impact across all three departments while also bringing his leadership experience to the side. The Strikers had Matt Short and Chris Lynn as their regular opening combination last season, but Lynn is currently off contract, meaning the pair could be split up even if he returns to the franchise.
Paine sees Stokes as an ideal candidate to take the new ball with the bat, particularly on Australia's traditionally pace-friendly and bouncy pitches.
"Stokes gives us a lot of flexibility. I think initially my chats around how we would use him would probably be opening the batting. I think he's made to open the batting in Big Bash. I think the pacy, bouncy wickets in Australia really suit him," Paine said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
The former Australia captain also highlighted Stokes' ability to attack all areas of the ground and change the momentum of an innings almost instantly.
"I have been on the end of a couple of these devastating innings in Test cricket where you feel like you cannot defend the field. He can play 360 degrees. He has got power. He has got some real class," he added.
Although Stokes has opened in only 16 of his 148 T20 innings, the numbers suggest he is at his most productive in that role. He averages 36.53 and has a strike rate of 138.48 as an opener. One of his two T20 centuries also came while opening, when he smashed an unbeaten 107 off 60 ****** for Rajasthan Royals in the 2020 IPL. His other T20 century came for Rising Pune Supergiant in 2017, when he scored 103 off 63 deliveries.
However, much of Stokes' T20 career has seen him bat at No. 3, 4 or 5. He has not played a T20 match since The Hundred in 2024, where he managed only four runs across three innings.
"I think he can do a terrific job opening the batting. Playing pretty normally, as we have seen in the past, he can flick a switch, and he has got amazing power. His skill level with the bat and his play of spin, he has just a well-rounded, world-class batter. We think that is probably the best fit for him and for us," Paine said.
Paine also believes Stokes could have an impact with the ball, suggesting his pace and ability to move the ball could make him a useful option in different phases of an innings.
"He is a bit quicker than people think. He has got great skill. He can swing the ball both ways. We feel like we can use him in all phases of the game with the ball as well. He will impact in the field with his athleticism and just the way he competes," he said.
Stokes has taken 352 wickets for England across international cricket, with his best figures of 6/22 highlighting his ability to produc
2 months ago
ONE Championship returns to Bangkok's iconic Lumpinee Stadium on Friday, September 4, with another stacked lineup at ONE Fight Night 47 on Prime Video.
The card streams live in U.S. primetime and is headlined by former three-sport ONE World Champion Stamp Fairtex against Selina "Teep Queen" Flores in a highly anticipated atomweight Muay Thai showdown.
But some of the night's most intriguing action could come before the headline attraction.
From a collision between aggressive and acrobatic strikers to an undefeated Indian finisher making his global roster debut, these three bouts have all the ingredients to leave a lasting impression at the mecca of Muay Thai.
Jaosuayai Mor Krungthepthonburi and Jordan "Panda Kick" Estupinan rarely need much encouragement to attack.
#thai #championship #stadium #fight
The card streams live in U.S. primetime and is headlined by former three-sport ONE World Champion Stamp Fairtex against Selina "Teep Queen" Flores in a highly anticipated atomweight Muay Thai showdown.
But some of the night's most intriguing action could come before the headline attraction.
From a collision between aggressive and acrobatic strikers to an undefeated Indian finisher making his global roster debut, these three bouts have all the ingredients to leave a lasting impression at the mecca of Muay Thai.
Jaosuayai Mor Krungthepthonburi and Jordan "Panda Kick" Estupinan rarely need much encouragement to attack.
#thai #championship #stadium #fight
2 months ago
One of the hardest things to do for players on the PGA Tour is work to improve their game while trying to win every week against the best players in the world. But now, with the 2026 PGA Tour season concluded, Golfweek is taking a statistical look to see which players improved the most in key areas of the game, year over year. The first part of the series (PGA Tour most improved in 2026: Driving distance, strokes gained off tee) can be found here.
In his 2014 book "Every Shot Counts: Using the Revolutionary Strokes Gained Approach to Improve Your Golf Performance and Strategy," Columbia professor Dr. Mark Brodie dispelled the longstanding myth that pros "Drive for show and putt for dough."
What Brodie's research found was that the golfers who are consistently contending for wins on the PGA Tour and who earn the most money tend to be players who are elite **** trikers because they avoid making big numbers and get more chances to score birdies.
Making more putts combines improving in three skills: reading greens, judging the ideal speed and making a repeatable, high-quality putting stroke. As any golfer at any level will tell you, getting better at putting is hard, but the players in the table below did it better than anyone on the PGA Tour last season.
While there are several other putting stats that are tracked by the PGA Tour, Strokes Gained: Putting is the most accurate **** sment of a golfer's putting performance because it isolates putting. Counting stats, like three-putt avoidance as an example, inherently include other aspects of a player's game.
#tour #players #gained #performance
In his 2014 book "Every Shot Counts: Using the Revolutionary Strokes Gained Approach to Improve Your Golf Performance and Strategy," Columbia professor Dr. Mark Brodie dispelled the longstanding myth that pros "Drive for show and putt for dough."
What Brodie's research found was that the golfers who are consistently contending for wins on the PGA Tour and who earn the most money tend to be players who are elite **** trikers because they avoid making big numbers and get more chances to score birdies.
Making more putts combines improving in three skills: reading greens, judging the ideal speed and making a repeatable, high-quality putting stroke. As any golfer at any level will tell you, getting better at putting is hard, but the players in the table below did it better than anyone on the PGA Tour last season.
While there are several other putting stats that are tracked by the PGA Tour, Strokes Gained: Putting is the most accurate **** sment of a golfer's putting performance because it isolates putting. Counting stats, like three-putt avoidance as an example, inherently include other aspects of a player's game.
#tour #players #gained #performance
2 months ago
Well, this is something to wake up to. According to The Athletic's David Ornstein, overnight Tottenham Hotspur and Everton reached an agreement to essentially swap attackers — bringing Ilman Ndiaye to Spurs, with Richarlison returning to Everton heading the other direction. This is NOT a true swap deal; these will be treated as separate transfers.
In yesterday's post-match press conference, Spurs head coach Roberto De Zerbi essentially told us that Richarlison asked to leave Spurs for a new challenge. I just didn't realize it would all go down so quickly. According to Paul Joyce of The Times, Ndiaye will cost Spurs about £60m, with Richarlison heading the other direction for a fee of £35m, making the outlay a lot lower than most transfers that Spurs have brought in this summer.
Ndiaye, 26, is a French fooballer who has declared for and plays international football for Senegal. He's been used primarily on the left wing for Everton, but can also play centrally or on the right. He's NOT a striker but could be implemented as a #10 if needed. Ndiaye likes to be on the ball and frequently prefers to take on and dribble past his defenders, which frequently turns into touches in the penalty area and shots. He likes to cut inside from the flank and is also comfortable receiving the ball deeper as a ball progression outlet. His acquisition means that Spurs will essentially only have three first team strikers on the books — Omar Marmoush, Dominic Solanke, and Dane Scarlett — but Ndiaye will fortify Spurs' attacking midfield options. His preferred position at Everton will put him in competition with Mathys Tel and Savinho, but his positional flexibility means he could be an ***** et elsewhere as well. He's also a willing presser and capable of putting in defensive work to make tackles. Despite maybe hinting otherwise yesterday, I'm kind of a fan of this deal.
As for Richarlison… well, I'm sad. He's probably my favorite Spurs player (non-Sonny edition) of this era. He's a vibes guy who always seemed to lift the mood, and it's clear he loved Spurs. But it's just as clear that he's not happy here anymore, and as his career starts to wind down a return to the club that lifted him to stardom feels like the closing of the circle. Everton fans love him as much as we do, and I can't begrudge them, or him, this move. It feels like the right choice.
What do you think of this deal? Can Spurs get it across the line before the window closes on September 2?
#everton #ndiaye
In yesterday's post-match press conference, Spurs head coach Roberto De Zerbi essentially told us that Richarlison asked to leave Spurs for a new challenge. I just didn't realize it would all go down so quickly. According to Paul Joyce of The Times, Ndiaye will cost Spurs about £60m, with Richarlison heading the other direction for a fee of £35m, making the outlay a lot lower than most transfers that Spurs have brought in this summer.
Ndiaye, 26, is a French fooballer who has declared for and plays international football for Senegal. He's been used primarily on the left wing for Everton, but can also play centrally or on the right. He's NOT a striker but could be implemented as a #10 if needed. Ndiaye likes to be on the ball and frequently prefers to take on and dribble past his defenders, which frequently turns into touches in the penalty area and shots. He likes to cut inside from the flank and is also comfortable receiving the ball deeper as a ball progression outlet. His acquisition means that Spurs will essentially only have three first team strikers on the books — Omar Marmoush, Dominic Solanke, and Dane Scarlett — but Ndiaye will fortify Spurs' attacking midfield options. His preferred position at Everton will put him in competition with Mathys Tel and Savinho, but his positional flexibility means he could be an ***** et elsewhere as well. He's also a willing presser and capable of putting in defensive work to make tackles. Despite maybe hinting otherwise yesterday, I'm kind of a fan of this deal.
As for Richarlison… well, I'm sad. He's probably my favorite Spurs player (non-Sonny edition) of this era. He's a vibes guy who always seemed to lift the mood, and it's clear he loved Spurs. But it's just as clear that he's not happy here anymore, and as his career starts to wind down a return to the club that lifted him to stardom feels like the closing of the circle. Everton fans love him as much as we do, and I can't begrudge them, or him, this move. It feels like the right choice.
What do you think of this deal? Can Spurs get it across the line before the window closes on September 2?
#everton #ndiaye
2 months ago
Everything was on the line at the draw in Monaco. The four home and four away opponents for the 2026–27 season have now been determined. UEFA will announce the exact dates of the matches by Saturday. Today, Thursday, former star strikers Thierry Henry and David Villa began by drawing the opponents for all 36 participating teams.
BVB already faced three of its eight opponents last year: At SIGNAL IDUNA PARK, BVB will once again take on Inter Milan and Villarreal CF—and these two matchups cannot be repeated next year—and will also face FK Bodø/Glimt from Norway again, though this time on the road. The other home opponents are Real Betis from Seville and AEK Athens—both of which will be first-time opponents! Away from home, Borussia will face Bodø/Glimt, as well as ******* nal, Aston Villa, and Sabah FK in Azerbaijan.
Inter MilanThe 21-time Italian champions have reached the Champions League final twice in the past four seasons. Inter has won the trophy three times (most recently in 2010), but suffered a surprising defeat last season in the Round of 16 against Bodø/Glimt—a team that shocked more than just BVB. BVB lost the head-to-head match against Inter 0–2. There will be a reunion with Manuel Akanji and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
Real BetisReal Betis Balompié, known as Real Betis for short or simply Betis—that's the name of Spain's 1935 champion and three-time cup winner. Their greatest international achievement was reaching the final of the 2025 UEFA Conference League. Former Borussia player Marc Bartra (pictured) played a key role in helping the team finish fifth in La Liga last season, thereby qualifying for the Champions League for the second time in the club's history. BVB has not yet faced Betis in a head-to-head match.
FC VillarrealThe second Spanish opponent—which finished third last year—comes from Pot 3, even though it made a splash internationally by winning the 2021 UEFA Europa League and reaching the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League the following year. In last season's league campaign, however, "the Yellow Submarine" finished in 35th place with just one point earned. At SIGNAL IDUNA PARK, BVB won 4-0.
#time #champions #year
BVB already faced three of its eight opponents last year: At SIGNAL IDUNA PARK, BVB will once again take on Inter Milan and Villarreal CF—and these two matchups cannot be repeated next year—and will also face FK Bodø/Glimt from Norway again, though this time on the road. The other home opponents are Real Betis from Seville and AEK Athens—both of which will be first-time opponents! Away from home, Borussia will face Bodø/Glimt, as well as ******* nal, Aston Villa, and Sabah FK in Azerbaijan.
Inter MilanThe 21-time Italian champions have reached the Champions League final twice in the past four seasons. Inter has won the trophy three times (most recently in 2010), but suffered a surprising defeat last season in the Round of 16 against Bodø/Glimt—a team that shocked more than just BVB. BVB lost the head-to-head match against Inter 0–2. There will be a reunion with Manuel Akanji and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
Real BetisReal Betis Balompié, known as Real Betis for short or simply Betis—that's the name of Spain's 1935 champion and three-time cup winner. Their greatest international achievement was reaching the final of the 2025 UEFA Conference League. Former Borussia player Marc Bartra (pictured) played a key role in helping the team finish fifth in La Liga last season, thereby qualifying for the Champions League for the second time in the club's history. BVB has not yet faced Betis in a head-to-head match.
FC VillarrealThe second Spanish opponent—which finished third last year—comes from Pot 3, even though it made a splash internationally by winning the 2021 UEFA Europa League and reaching the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League the following year. In last season's league campaign, however, "the Yellow Submarine" finished in 35th place with just one point earned. At SIGNAL IDUNA PARK, BVB won 4-0.
#time #champions #year
2 months ago
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani drew ire from conservatives on Tuesday for mourning the death of a man who was awaiting trial on murder charges.
"I am deeply saddened by the death of a New Yorker in City custody at a jail on Rikers Island early this morning," Mamdani posted on X.
Clarence Woodward, the man Mamdani was referencing, was arrested in 2024 and charged with murder, manslaughter and ******* ault in connection with an unprovoked meat cleaver attack at a Bronx laundromat. At the time, Woodward had 27 prior arrests and had received parole just a month prior to the alleged killing. Woodward had pleaded not guilty to the charges and had not been convicted.
"My thoughts are with his family and loved ones as they grieve this loss. We do not yet know the cause of death, but we do know that too many New Yorkers have died on Rikers Island. The Department of Correction and its oversight partners will investigate the circumstances surrounding his death. Our administration is fully committed to the critical work of creating better conditions in our city's jail system and closing Rikers Island as quickly as possible."
Woke Language Overhaul Would Strip The Word 'Inmate' From New York City's Entire Jail Rulebook
#death #rikers #york
"I am deeply saddened by the death of a New Yorker in City custody at a jail on Rikers Island early this morning," Mamdani posted on X.
Clarence Woodward, the man Mamdani was referencing, was arrested in 2024 and charged with murder, manslaughter and ******* ault in connection with an unprovoked meat cleaver attack at a Bronx laundromat. At the time, Woodward had 27 prior arrests and had received parole just a month prior to the alleged killing. Woodward had pleaded not guilty to the charges and had not been convicted.
"My thoughts are with his family and loved ones as they grieve this loss. We do not yet know the cause of death, but we do know that too many New Yorkers have died on Rikers Island. The Department of Correction and its oversight partners will investigate the circumstances surrounding his death. Our administration is fully committed to the critical work of creating better conditions in our city's jail system and closing Rikers Island as quickly as possible."
Woke Language Overhaul Would Strip The Word 'Inmate' From New York City's Entire Jail Rulebook
#death #rikers #york
2 months ago
Aston Villa boss Unai Emery says forward Ollie Watkins' absence in the 4-0 thrashing at Brighton is a "question for him".
The 30-year-old was left out of the matchday squad for Villa's Premier League opener after Emery confirmed earlier in the week there had been offers from Saudi club Al-Hilal for the striker.
Asked if it was his decision to leave Watkins out, Emery told Match of the Day: "This question is for him. You can call him and try to get his answer.
"The players here wanted to play and we had two strikers with a small injury. The question on Watkins is for him."
Watkins could become the latest of Villa's European heroes to exit this summer.
#brighton
The 30-year-old was left out of the matchday squad for Villa's Premier League opener after Emery confirmed earlier in the week there had been offers from Saudi club Al-Hilal for the striker.
Asked if it was his decision to leave Watkins out, Emery told Match of the Day: "This question is for him. You can call him and try to get his answer.
"The players here wanted to play and we had two strikers with a small injury. The question on Watkins is for him."
Watkins could become the latest of Villa's European heroes to exit this summer.
#brighton
2 months ago
Nicolas Jackson is a target for Atletico Madrid, and Chelsea will be hoping a big bid is on the way soon.
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It looked for a while like Nicolas Jackson was going to be reintegrated back into Chelsea's first team squad this season after a year on loan with Bayern Munich.
But it's now clear that Xabi Alonso is keeping three strikers in his squad, and the Senegalese isn't one of them. Some will say that's harsh, but it may also be down to a desire to leave on Jackson's part.
Nicolas Jackson (Photo by Sona Maleterova/Getty Images)
#jackson #atletico #madrid
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.
It looked for a while like Nicolas Jackson was going to be reintegrated back into Chelsea's first team squad this season after a year on loan with Bayern Munich.
But it's now clear that Xabi Alonso is keeping three strikers in his squad, and the Senegalese isn't one of them. Some will say that's harsh, but it may also be down to a desire to leave on Jackson's part.
Nicolas Jackson (Photo by Sona Maleterova/Getty Images)
#jackson #atletico #madrid
2 months ago
Genoa and Brighton have reached an agreement over a loan move for Evan Ferguson, with the Republic of Ireland striker set for a return to Serie A.
According to Sky Sport, the deal will see Ferguson join on loan with Brighton covering 30% of his wages, and he isn't expected to be available until early October.
LECCE, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma during the Serie A match between US Lecce and AS Roma at Stadio Via del Mare on January 06, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
The move continues a pattern for the Irishman, who has been farmed out repeatedly since establishing himself at Brighton, following a difficult spell at West Ham in early 2025 and a season at Roma last year, where an ankle injury limited him to 16 league appearances and just three goals.
Daniele De Rossi's Genoa have been searching for a recognised centre-forward after a summer of departures left the club short up front, and are prepared to be patient with Ferguson's recovery in the hope of getting the best of a player once considered one of the Premier League's brightest young strikers.
#lecce #serie
According to Sky Sport, the deal will see Ferguson join on loan with Brighton covering 30% of his wages, and he isn't expected to be available until early October.
LECCE, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma during the Serie A match between US Lecce and AS Roma at Stadio Via del Mare on January 06, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
The move continues a pattern for the Irishman, who has been farmed out repeatedly since establishing himself at Brighton, following a difficult spell at West Ham in early 2025 and a season at Roma last year, where an ankle injury limited him to 16 league appearances and just three goals.
Daniele De Rossi's Genoa have been searching for a recognised centre-forward after a summer of departures left the club short up front, and are prepared to be patient with Ferguson's recovery in the hope of getting the best of a player once considered one of the Premier League's brightest young strikers.
#lecce #serie
2 months ago
Barcelona are not ready to give up on Julian Alvarez. Not yet.
Despite Atletico Madrid's repeated public insistence that their star forward is not for sale, Barcelona are preparing to make one more serious attempt to bring the Argentine to Camp Nou.
But according to Mundo Deportivo, there is now a clear limit to how long they are willing to wait, and in that regard, the next two or three days will be decisive.
Barcelona's sporting department wants clarity on Alvarez's future before the weekend, which is when the club open their 2026/27 La Liga account.
If there is no breakthrough within that timeframe, the club will turn their attention towards one of the alternative strikers already being considered.
#Barcelona #despite
Despite Atletico Madrid's repeated public insistence that their star forward is not for sale, Barcelona are preparing to make one more serious attempt to bring the Argentine to Camp Nou.
But according to Mundo Deportivo, there is now a clear limit to how long they are willing to wait, and in that regard, the next two or three days will be decisive.
Barcelona's sporting department wants clarity on Alvarez's future before the weekend, which is when the club open their 2026/27 La Liga account.
If there is no breakthrough within that timeframe, the club will turn their attention towards one of the alternative strikers already being considered.
#Barcelona #despite
2 months ago
PHILADELPHIA – Edson Barboza is calling it a career.
One of the most violent strikers in lightweight history, Barboza (24-15 MMA, 18-15 UFC) lost his fourth straight fight Saturday when he was finished by Esteban Ribovics with strikes at 1:32 of Round 2. The lightweight bout took place on the UFC 330 prelims at Xfinity Mobile Arena.
Ribovics (16-3 MMA, 5-3 UFC) appeared to be the quicker and crisper fighter from the opening bell. Barboza showed vintage toughness, but as the fight wore on, he wore down. At the end of Round 1, Barboza stumbled and was cracked by Ribovics. The stumble was likely due to a large gash that had formed on his right shin.
In Round 2, Ribovics really took over. He tagged Barboza over and over again. Barboza wore damage on his face as he absorbed the blows and eventually referee Herb Dean stopped the fight standing.
After the bout, an emotional Barboza was given his time on the microphone to a standing ovation. He wept as he gave his final in-cage interview and laid his gloves down in the cage.
#ribovics #round #standing
One of the most violent strikers in lightweight history, Barboza (24-15 MMA, 18-15 UFC) lost his fourth straight fight Saturday when he was finished by Esteban Ribovics with strikes at 1:32 of Round 2. The lightweight bout took place on the UFC 330 prelims at Xfinity Mobile Arena.
Ribovics (16-3 MMA, 5-3 UFC) appeared to be the quicker and crisper fighter from the opening bell. Barboza showed vintage toughness, but as the fight wore on, he wore down. At the end of Round 1, Barboza stumbled and was cracked by Ribovics. The stumble was likely due to a large gash that had formed on his right shin.
In Round 2, Ribovics really took over. He tagged Barboza over and over again. Barboza wore damage on his face as he absorbed the blows and eventually referee Herb Dean stopped the fight standing.
After the bout, an emotional Barboza was given his time on the microphone to a standing ovation. He wept as he gave his final in-cage interview and laid his gloves down in the cage.
#ribovics #round #standing
2 months ago
Barcelona find themselves in an unusual position heading into the new season.
Following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, Hansi Flick currently has no natural senior centre-forward in his first-team squad.
The Pole left at the end of last season upon the expiry of his contract, while Ferran asked to leave once PSG came calling.
The Spaniard was unveiled as a new PSG player earlier today, officially leaving Barça without strikers in the squad ahead of the new season.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez remains Barcelona's major target in the market.
#ferran #lewandowski
Following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, Hansi Flick currently has no natural senior centre-forward in his first-team squad.
The Pole left at the end of last season upon the expiry of his contract, while Ferran asked to leave once PSG came calling.
The Spaniard was unveiled as a new PSG player earlier today, officially leaving Barça without strikers in the squad ahead of the new season.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez remains Barcelona's major target in the market.
#ferran #lewandowski
3 months ago
Napoli outcast Lorenzo Lucca remains a target for Lazio, who are still keen to sign a centre-forward before the end of the summer.
In recent hours, several reliable sources in Italy confirmed the Biancocelesti's renewed interest in Inter Milan midfielder Davide Frattesi. Claudio Lotito and co. are seemingly negotiating with the Nerazzurri, as well as the player's representative, Giuseppe Riso, whose stable could offer Lazio a solution for their attacking conundrum.
As Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla points out, Riso is also the agent of Andrea Pinamonti and Lorenzo Lucca, two strikers who are on Lazio's shortlist.
After missing out on Franjo Ivanovic (who preferred to join RC Lens), several sources identified Sassuolo's Pinamonti as the Aquile's new primary target. However, Pedulla insists that Lucca remains a viable option, one that the club could revisit in the coming days.
Lucca is a well-travelled Italian striker who stands at an impressive 201 cm. The Moncalieri native enjoyed a positive spell at Udinese between 2023 and 2025, scoring 23 goals in 75 appearances before earning a €30 million move to Napoli last summer.
#lazio #pinamonti
In recent hours, several reliable sources in Italy confirmed the Biancocelesti's renewed interest in Inter Milan midfielder Davide Frattesi. Claudio Lotito and co. are seemingly negotiating with the Nerazzurri, as well as the player's representative, Giuseppe Riso, whose stable could offer Lazio a solution for their attacking conundrum.
As Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla points out, Riso is also the agent of Andrea Pinamonti and Lorenzo Lucca, two strikers who are on Lazio's shortlist.
After missing out on Franjo Ivanovic (who preferred to join RC Lens), several sources identified Sassuolo's Pinamonti as the Aquile's new primary target. However, Pedulla insists that Lucca remains a viable option, one that the club could revisit in the coming days.
Lucca is a well-travelled Italian striker who stands at an impressive 201 cm. The Moncalieri native enjoyed a positive spell at Udinese between 2023 and 2025, scoring 23 goals in 75 appearances before earning a €30 million move to Napoli last summer.
#lazio #pinamonti
3 months ago
Long before she became one of the organization's most feared strikers, Natalia "Karelian Lynx" Diachkova was a 12-year-old girl in a small Russian province who fell in love with the sound of a heavy bag.
That heavy bag has led her to the upcoming headliner of ONE Fight Night 46 on Prime Video, where she challenges two-sport queen Stella "Always Hungry" Hemetsberger for the ONE Women's Strawweight Muay Thai World ***** le. The event streams live in U.S. primetime this Friday, August 14, from Bangkok's historic Lumpinee Stadium.
It is the biggest opportunity of a career built on hardship long before it was ever built on highlight-reel knockouts. To understand exactly what this shot at gold means to the 31-year-old, the story has to start at the very beginning.
Diachkova found her way into combat sports through an unlikely spark. Her father, who had originally hoped for a son, brought her to a wrestling gym in the small city of Petrozavodsk when she was just 12 years old.
Wrestling never took, but everything changed the moment she watched a local coach named Ivan working a heavy bag inside a newly opened Muay Thai gym nearby. She described that moment as something close to love at first sight, the kind of feeling that stays with a person for life.
#thai #long
That heavy bag has led her to the upcoming headliner of ONE Fight Night 46 on Prime Video, where she challenges two-sport queen Stella "Always Hungry" Hemetsberger for the ONE Women's Strawweight Muay Thai World ***** le. The event streams live in U.S. primetime this Friday, August 14, from Bangkok's historic Lumpinee Stadium.
It is the biggest opportunity of a career built on hardship long before it was ever built on highlight-reel knockouts. To understand exactly what this shot at gold means to the 31-year-old, the story has to start at the very beginning.
Diachkova found her way into combat sports through an unlikely spark. Her father, who had originally hoped for a son, brought her to a wrestling gym in the small city of Petrozavodsk when she was just 12 years old.
Wrestling never took, but everything changed the moment she watched a local coach named Ivan working a heavy bag inside a newly opened Muay Thai gym nearby. She described that moment as something close to love at first sight, the kind of feeling that stays with a person for life.
#thai #long
3 months ago
Serbian striker Dušan Vlahović is still without a club despite reports saying he wanted to make a decision by the end of last week. Barcelona remain his dream destination according to rumor, but the only club to have made a solid proposal that matches his demands is Beşiktaş.
Vlahović left Juventus after the Italians refused to acquiesce to his salary and signing bonus demands. He's tested the open market and found top European clubs such as Barça and Atlético Madrid were willing to speak to him, but less willing to actually sign him.
Reports say that Vlahović is willing to drop his financial demands to sign for a top club, especially Barcelona. But considering how high his original demands were, that may not be enough. Beşiktaş want him to accept their deal, which is quite hefty, and forget about Barça. But the player himself has obviously not done so, and is seemingly still holding out hope that the Catalans bite.
One development that could play strongly in his favor is the looming sale of Ferran Torres to PSG. If the World Cup hero is sold, Barcelona will be without their top two strikers from last season, with Robert Lewandowski having already left for Chicago Fire. Signing a striker will go from a top priority, to a necessity. In fact, Barça may have to sign two strikers in that case.
With other options such as Julián Alvarez looking increasingly likely, there is a line of thought that says Vlahović to Barcelona is the compromise that's just a matter of time. But the biggest hurdle to overcome is a lack of enthusiasm for the signing from the Catalans' part. If they were truly keen, they could have snapped him up any time.
#vlahovi
Vlahović left Juventus after the Italians refused to acquiesce to his salary and signing bonus demands. He's tested the open market and found top European clubs such as Barça and Atlético Madrid were willing to speak to him, but less willing to actually sign him.
Reports say that Vlahović is willing to drop his financial demands to sign for a top club, especially Barcelona. But considering how high his original demands were, that may not be enough. Beşiktaş want him to accept their deal, which is quite hefty, and forget about Barça. But the player himself has obviously not done so, and is seemingly still holding out hope that the Catalans bite.
One development that could play strongly in his favor is the looming sale of Ferran Torres to PSG. If the World Cup hero is sold, Barcelona will be without their top two strikers from last season, with Robert Lewandowski having already left for Chicago Fire. Signing a striker will go from a top priority, to a necessity. In fact, Barça may have to sign two strikers in that case.
With other options such as Julián Alvarez looking increasingly likely, there is a line of thought that says Vlahović to Barcelona is the compromise that's just a matter of time. But the biggest hurdle to overcome is a lack of enthusiasm for the signing from the Catalans' part. If they were truly keen, they could have snapped him up any time.
#vlahovi
3 months ago
Diyar Nurgozhay finally lived up to his hype earlier tonight (Sat., Aug. 8, 2026) at UFC Vegas 120 LIVE on Paramount+ from inside the revamped Meta Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada, as the light heavyweight prospect laid waste to Bruno Lopes via TKO with one second left in the first round.
Fight fans probably didn't have this matchup circled on their event card, but it had all the ingredients to deliver instant fireworks. That's because both guys are strikers and have a history outside of UFC for finishing their opponents. It was up to both light heavyweights to finally rise to a UFC level to earn their stripes and leave "Sin City" victorious.
While Lopes tried his heart out it was Nurgozhay who delivered the goods. With about 30 seconds left in the first round Nurgozhay uncorked a left hand that connected on Lopes' temple and left him on skates. Nurgozhay eventually tracked him down along the cage and landed a nasty uppercut followed by a punch to the body and left hook upstairs to earn the stoppage. There was one second left on the clock when the referee waved the fight off.
Check out the video highlights below:
For complete UFC Vegas 120 results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.
#nurgozhay #vegas #finally
Fight fans probably didn't have this matchup circled on their event card, but it had all the ingredients to deliver instant fireworks. That's because both guys are strikers and have a history outside of UFC for finishing their opponents. It was up to both light heavyweights to finally rise to a UFC level to earn their stripes and leave "Sin City" victorious.
While Lopes tried his heart out it was Nurgozhay who delivered the goods. With about 30 seconds left in the first round Nurgozhay uncorked a left hand that connected on Lopes' temple and left him on skates. Nurgozhay eventually tracked him down along the cage and landed a nasty uppercut followed by a punch to the body and left hook upstairs to earn the stoppage. There was one second left on the clock when the referee waved the fight off.
Check out the video highlights below:
For complete UFC Vegas 120 results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.
#nurgozhay #vegas #finally
3 months ago
Chelsea have set an asking price of £65m for Nicolas Jackson with Aston Villa weighing up a formal approach.
Aston Villa are interested in a deal to sign Jackson, with Unai Emery open to a reunion with his former Villarreal player. The Villans have banked more than £190m from sales this summer and are contemplating an official bid for Jackson.
The Senegalese striker has returned to Chelsea from a season-long loan at Bayern Munich, where he scored 11 goals in 34 games for the German double-winners.
Bayerndecided against the £70m option to make the move permanent, though Chelsea retain confidence that the club can secure a significant sum for the forward.
According toThe Athletic, Chelsea value Jackson at £65m, a fee that would represent a club-record deal for Aston Villa. He's one of several strikers expected to leave West London this summer, with Emmanuel Emegha, Liam Delap and Marc Guiu all attracting suitors.
#jackson #deal #emery
Aston Villa are interested in a deal to sign Jackson, with Unai Emery open to a reunion with his former Villarreal player. The Villans have banked more than £190m from sales this summer and are contemplating an official bid for Jackson.
The Senegalese striker has returned to Chelsea from a season-long loan at Bayern Munich, where he scored 11 goals in 34 games for the German double-winners.
Bayerndecided against the £70m option to make the move permanent, though Chelsea retain confidence that the club can secure a significant sum for the forward.
According toThe Athletic, Chelsea value Jackson at £65m, a fee that would represent a club-record deal for Aston Villa. He's one of several strikers expected to leave West London this summer, with Emmanuel Emegha, Liam Delap and Marc Guiu all attracting suitors.
#jackson #deal #emery
3 months ago
Two traditional clubs with large and passionate fan bases will kick off their respective seasons on Sunday, with the atmosphere inside the Max-Morlock-Stadion expected to be electric as Nürnberg face Dynamo Dresden.
Miroslav Klose enters his third season in charge of Der Club, with promotion ambitions yet to come to fruition following 10th and eighth-place finishes in his first two campaigns. The former Germany international will be hoping this can finally be the season in which he guides Nürnberg back to the Bundesliga.
As with most clubs in the division, Nürnberg have seen several departures during the summer, with Fabio Gruber and Luka Lochoshvili among those to leave. However, the club have brought in eight new players to compensate for those losses.
Nürnberg also enjoyed an unbeaten pre-season, recording four wins and one draw. Strikers Piet Scobel and Mohamed Ali Zoma both impressed during the preparations, scoring four goals apiece across the five matches.
Klose is determined to ensure his side make a better start than they did last season:
#season #club #stadion #dynamo
Miroslav Klose enters his third season in charge of Der Club, with promotion ambitions yet to come to fruition following 10th and eighth-place finishes in his first two campaigns. The former Germany international will be hoping this can finally be the season in which he guides Nürnberg back to the Bundesliga.
As with most clubs in the division, Nürnberg have seen several departures during the summer, with Fabio Gruber and Luka Lochoshvili among those to leave. However, the club have brought in eight new players to compensate for those losses.
Nürnberg also enjoyed an unbeaten pre-season, recording four wins and one draw. Strikers Piet Scobel and Mohamed Ali Zoma both impressed during the preparations, scoring four goals apiece across the five matches.
Klose is determined to ensure his side make a better start than they did last season:
#season #club #stadion #dynamo
3 months ago
Gabriel Jesus is one of the players **** nal want to offload this summer, and he could be on his way to Italy in the coming weeks after one of the country's top clubs showed interest in his signature. Jesus has been one of the key players in the **** nal team over the years and has continued to deliver fine performances whenever he steps onto the pitch.
However, his on-field returns have been poor in recent seasons, and the Gunners are now considering replacing him. Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz are ahead of him in the pecking order, leaving Jesus facing an uncertain future at the Emirates.
Arsenal have been linked with moves for new strikers during this transfer window, but the Gunners also need to sell. Jesus is one of the players who could leave, with Napoli now interested in signing the Brazilian.
According to Team Talk, the Italian side are serious about their interest and have spoken to Jesus' entourage as they prepare to formally approach **** nal. However, Napoli also need to complete a sale before they can bring in the forward, meaning the transfer could depend on their own squad changes.
Jesus could therefore have an opportunity to begin a new chapter in Serie A if Napoli are able to create the necessary **** e.
#however #interest #transfer #need
However, his on-field returns have been poor in recent seasons, and the Gunners are now considering replacing him. Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz are ahead of him in the pecking order, leaving Jesus facing an uncertain future at the Emirates.
Arsenal have been linked with moves for new strikers during this transfer window, but the Gunners also need to sell. Jesus is one of the players who could leave, with Napoli now interested in signing the Brazilian.
According to Team Talk, the Italian side are serious about their interest and have spoken to Jesus' entourage as they prepare to formally approach **** nal. However, Napoli also need to complete a sale before they can bring in the forward, meaning the transfer could depend on their own squad changes.
Jesus could therefore have an opportunity to begin a new chapter in Serie A if Napoli are able to create the necessary **** e.
#however #interest #transfer #need
3 months ago
Bayern Munich reportedly view Benjamin Sesko as the eventual heir to Harry Kane's throne at the Allianz Arena.
According to Ben Jacobs (via The United Stand), the German giants have identified United's frontman as Kane's 'long-term successor'.
However, any pursuit is likely to come either next year or in 2028, with 'talks underway' to try and keep the England captain tied to Bayern for the foreseeable future.
Although Kane is now 33, he's showing absolutely no sign of slowing down on the goalscoring front, and has only further established himself as one of the most prolific strikers in world football since making the move to Germany.
His unprecedented return of 61 goals and seven **** ists in 51 appearances last season for Bayern, as well as his seven goal contributions at the World Cup, have put him well in contention to win the Ballon d'Or this year.
#seven #munich
According to Ben Jacobs (via The United Stand), the German giants have identified United's frontman as Kane's 'long-term successor'.
However, any pursuit is likely to come either next year or in 2028, with 'talks underway' to try and keep the England captain tied to Bayern for the foreseeable future.
Although Kane is now 33, he's showing absolutely no sign of slowing down on the goalscoring front, and has only further established himself as one of the most prolific strikers in world football since making the move to Germany.
His unprecedented return of 61 goals and seven **** ists in 51 appearances last season for Bayern, as well as his seven goal contributions at the World Cup, have put him well in contention to win the Ballon d'Or this year.
#seven #munich
3 months ago
Kaito Ono arrived in ONE Championship as one of ******* an's most highly respected strikers. But after his first two appearances on the global stage, the decorated fighter found himself trapped in a period of unfamiliar darkness.
Mohammad Siasarani spoiled his promotional debut by unanimous decision in May 2025, before Marat Grigorian stopped him at ONE SAMURAI 1 this past April, leaving the 28-year-old with hazy memories of the bout.
Kaito now rematches Siasarani in the ONE SAMURAI Featherweight Kickboxing Tournament quarterfinal, which serves as the co-main event at ONE SAMURAI 2 this Saturday, August 8. The explosive card broadcasts live in Asia primetime on live.onefc.com from Tokyo's EBARA WAVE Arena Ota.
A victory would perfectly avenge his first ONE loss, earn a coveted semifinal place in the eight-man bracket, and move him one step closer to reigning ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Champion Superbon.
He recalled:
#samurai #first
Mohammad Siasarani spoiled his promotional debut by unanimous decision in May 2025, before Marat Grigorian stopped him at ONE SAMURAI 1 this past April, leaving the 28-year-old with hazy memories of the bout.
Kaito now rematches Siasarani in the ONE SAMURAI Featherweight Kickboxing Tournament quarterfinal, which serves as the co-main event at ONE SAMURAI 2 this Saturday, August 8. The explosive card broadcasts live in Asia primetime on live.onefc.com from Tokyo's EBARA WAVE Arena Ota.
A victory would perfectly avenge his first ONE loss, earn a coveted semifinal place in the eight-man bracket, and move him one step closer to reigning ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Champion Superbon.
He recalled:
#samurai #first
3 months ago
Liu "Spirit Dragon" Mengyang has unfinished business with Masaaki Noiri, and the ultimate prize waiting at the end of the tournament makes the stakes even higher.
The 23-year-old Chinese striking sensation faces the former ONE Interim Featherweight Kickboxing World Champion in the highly anticipated main event of ONE SAMURAI 2 on Saturday, August 8. The blockbuster event broadcasts from the EBARA WAVE Arena Ota in Tokyo, ******* an, streaming live via live.onefc.com.
The high-stakes bout serves as a quarterfinal matchup in the prestigious ONE SAMURAI Featherweight Kickboxing Tournament, with the eventual winner of the 8-man bracket earning a guaranteed World ******* le shot against reigning ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Champion Superbon.
When these two elite strikers last met in December 2024, Liu announced himself to the world in the most spectacular fashion possible.
Inside the opening 20 seconds, the Chinese powerhouse dropped Noiri to the canvas before expertly controlling the remainder of the contest to earn a unanimous decision. It was a shocking result that stunned the kickboxing ecosphere and firmly established Liu as one of the division's premier forces.
#kickboxing #World #featherweight #stakes
The 23-year-old Chinese striking sensation faces the former ONE Interim Featherweight Kickboxing World Champion in the highly anticipated main event of ONE SAMURAI 2 on Saturday, August 8. The blockbuster event broadcasts from the EBARA WAVE Arena Ota in Tokyo, ******* an, streaming live via live.onefc.com.
The high-stakes bout serves as a quarterfinal matchup in the prestigious ONE SAMURAI Featherweight Kickboxing Tournament, with the eventual winner of the 8-man bracket earning a guaranteed World ******* le shot against reigning ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Champion Superbon.
When these two elite strikers last met in December 2024, Liu announced himself to the world in the most spectacular fashion possible.
Inside the opening 20 seconds, the Chinese powerhouse dropped Noiri to the canvas before expertly controlling the remainder of the contest to earn a unanimous decision. It was a shocking result that stunned the kickboxing ecosphere and firmly established Liu as one of the division's premier forces.
#kickboxing #World #featherweight #stakes
3 months ago
Cercle Brugge going into this season hoping to avoid the mistakes of the past two campaigns. After finishing in the bottom four twice, there are hopes that the club can turns things around under Danish head coach Lars Friis. He has a few new players to work with, but it does not appear that the side have done much to rectify their struggles up front. Perhaps Cercle Brugge are hoping for some internal growth from the strikers already on the books, or are still working on some new signings. They will once again be one of the youngest sides going into the new season.
Transfers in: Lazare Amani (Kifisia FC), Gaetan Coucke (Sampdoria)
Transfers out: Warleson (Botafogo), Nils De Wilde (Aalst), Beni Mpanzu (FC Dordrecht), Flavio ***** nho (Monaco)
Key player: Lazare Amani
He may be one of the few new signings, but the former Union St Gilloise man could be crucial for Cercle Brugge this season. In many ways, he is the replacement for Leandro Lopes who left a few seasons ago and was never really replaced. High energy and tough tackling at his best, if Amani can find his best form, he really could be a driving force for a young Cercle Brugge team in midfield.
#amani #signings #really
Transfers in: Lazare Amani (Kifisia FC), Gaetan Coucke (Sampdoria)
Transfers out: Warleson (Botafogo), Nils De Wilde (Aalst), Beni Mpanzu (FC Dordrecht), Flavio ***** nho (Monaco)
Key player: Lazare Amani
He may be one of the few new signings, but the former Union St Gilloise man could be crucial for Cercle Brugge this season. In many ways, he is the replacement for Leandro Lopes who left a few seasons ago and was never really replaced. High energy and tough tackling at his best, if Amani can find his best form, he really could be a driving force for a young Cercle Brugge team in midfield.
#amani #signings #really
3 months ago
The Inner Circle 25 arrives on Friday, August 7, featuring a stacked card that guarantees high-stakes martial arts action from top to bottom. Broadcasting live in Asia primetime from Bangkok's historic Lumpinee Stadium, the blockbuster event streams exclusively for subscribers at live.onefc.com.
A bantamweight Muay Thai World ******* le eliminator will determine who faces the divisional king next, the highly anticipated ONE SAMURAI Featherweight Kickboxing Tournament roars to life with a clash between two elite strikers, and one of the most debated results of the year gets its definitive answer in a monumental rematch.
Here are three compelling reasons The Inner Circle 25 is absolutely unmissable this Friday.
Former ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion Nabil Anane and three-division Lumpinee Stadium Muay Thai World Champion Suakim PongSuphan PK will clash in a massive World ******* le eliminator. The victor earns the coveted right to challenge reigning divisional king Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon.
Anane's remarkable journey through ONE Championship has been nothing short of extraordinary. The towering 6-foot-4 Algerian-Thai striker arrived as the youngest-ever WBC Muay Thai World Champion. After an initial setback against "The Kicking Machine" Superlek in his debut, he returned with unmatched focus, systematically clearing out top contenders before defeating Nico "King of the North" Carrillo to claim interim gold in 2025.
#muay #inner #circle #stadium
A bantamweight Muay Thai World ******* le eliminator will determine who faces the divisional king next, the highly anticipated ONE SAMURAI Featherweight Kickboxing Tournament roars to life with a clash between two elite strikers, and one of the most debated results of the year gets its definitive answer in a monumental rematch.
Here are three compelling reasons The Inner Circle 25 is absolutely unmissable this Friday.
Former ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion Nabil Anane and three-division Lumpinee Stadium Muay Thai World Champion Suakim PongSuphan PK will clash in a massive World ******* le eliminator. The victor earns the coveted right to challenge reigning divisional king Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon.
Anane's remarkable journey through ONE Championship has been nothing short of extraordinary. The towering 6-foot-4 Algerian-Thai striker arrived as the youngest-ever WBC Muay Thai World Champion. After an initial setback against "The Kicking Machine" Superlek in his debut, he returned with unmatched focus, systematically clearing out top contenders before defeating Nico "King of the North" Carrillo to claim interim gold in 2025.
#muay #inner #circle #stadium
3 months ago
Tottenham are being linked with Victor Osimhen and, on the face of it, the logic is obvious. If you want a proper centre-forward, you go after one of the most productive strikers on the market. According to Caught Offside, Spurs have made initial approaches worth between £50 million and £55 million, while Galatasaray want closer to £65 million.
That gap matters. So does the broader context. Tottenham have already spent heavily, and this is not a club that can keep throwing money around without consequences. If the deal climbs, it stops looking like ambition and starts looking like a gamble.
Osimhen's output is elite. He scored 41 goals and supplied 10 ***** ists in 52 appearances last season. Those figures are the reason he is being framed as a major target for Roberto De Zerbi, who is rebuilding Tottenham's attacking options and wants a reliable focal point.
The report states that Spurs "have received sporting approval to begin formal negotiations" and believe "personal terms would not create a major obstacle". That is encouraging, but only up to a point. It also says "There has been no official approach or direct contact between Tottenham and Galatasaray." That means this is still at the exploratory stage, not the closing stage.
Photo IMAGO
#like #point
That gap matters. So does the broader context. Tottenham have already spent heavily, and this is not a club that can keep throwing money around without consequences. If the deal climbs, it stops looking like ambition and starts looking like a gamble.
Osimhen's output is elite. He scored 41 goals and supplied 10 ***** ists in 52 appearances last season. Those figures are the reason he is being framed as a major target for Roberto De Zerbi, who is rebuilding Tottenham's attacking options and wants a reliable focal point.
The report states that Spurs "have received sporting approval to begin formal negotiations" and believe "personal terms would not create a major obstacle". That is encouraging, but only up to a point. It also says "There has been no official approach or direct contact between Tottenham and Galatasaray." That means this is still at the exploratory stage, not the closing stage.
Photo IMAGO
#like #point
3 months ago
Roma haven't stopped considering Antonio Nusa.
The Norwegian striker is on Tony D'Amico's radar, as he continues to monitor his situation at Leipzig.
This is due to the player's desire to leave the German club soon and pursue new opportunities.
As Gazzetta dello Sport reports, however, Roma's limit remains Leipzig's high demands, with an overall valuation of around €60 million.
The Giallorossi would like to please Gasperini, who had named Nusa third on a shortlist of priority strikers alongside Greenwood and Summerville.
#roma
The Norwegian striker is on Tony D'Amico's radar, as he continues to monitor his situation at Leipzig.
This is due to the player's desire to leave the German club soon and pursue new opportunities.
As Gazzetta dello Sport reports, however, Roma's limit remains Leipzig's high demands, with an overall valuation of around €60 million.
The Giallorossi would like to please Gasperini, who had named Nusa third on a shortlist of priority strikers alongside Greenwood and Summerville.
#roma
3 months ago
New Celtic signing Kasper Hogh is unveiled to the mainstream media at Celtic Park. Photo Roddy Scott IMAGO / Shutterstock
Martin O'Neill's side have paid £11 million for Kasper Høgh, one of the most sought-after strikers in European football following his outstanding performances on the biggest stages, particularly in the Champions League and Europa League.
Celtic needed a top centre-forward after three consecutive seasons without one of their players finishing as the Scottish Premiership's top scorer. The last player to achieve it was Kyogo Furuhashi.
Celtic v Rangers – Kyogo Furuhashi celebrates following the match at Celtic Park, on Sunday September 1, 2024. Photo Steve Welsh
Daizen Maeda's departure also created the need for another proven goalscorer. In this article on Celtic Shorts, I will ***** yse why Celtic have invested so heavily in the Danish striker and what he could bring to the club.
#park #league #kyogo #following
Martin O'Neill's side have paid £11 million for Kasper Høgh, one of the most sought-after strikers in European football following his outstanding performances on the biggest stages, particularly in the Champions League and Europa League.
Celtic needed a top centre-forward after three consecutive seasons without one of their players finishing as the Scottish Premiership's top scorer. The last player to achieve it was Kyogo Furuhashi.
Celtic v Rangers – Kyogo Furuhashi celebrates following the match at Celtic Park, on Sunday September 1, 2024. Photo Steve Welsh
Daizen Maeda's departure also created the need for another proven goalscorer. In this article on Celtic Shorts, I will ***** yse why Celtic have invested so heavily in the Danish striker and what he could bring to the club.
#park #league #kyogo #following
3 months ago
Romelu Lukaku's agent Federico Pastorello says the Belgian striker cannot be a back-up at Napoli: 'He isn't the kind of person who stays where he's not wanted.'
Pastorello spoke to Sky Sport Italia on Friday night, discussing his client's situation at Napoli.
Lukaku is about to begin his third season at the Stadio Maradona, but has less than a year left in his contract.
He only played 64 minutes of football at a club level in 2025-26, mostly due to a serious muscle injury he suffered during the pre-season.
Asked whether Lukaku would accept being a Napoli reserve in 2026-27, Pastorello replied: "Obviously not. He's an extraordinary player, and he's proved it. He's one of the most prolific strikers in the world. It's hard for us to accept a situation like that.
#accept #federico
Pastorello spoke to Sky Sport Italia on Friday night, discussing his client's situation at Napoli.
Lukaku is about to begin his third season at the Stadio Maradona, but has less than a year left in his contract.
He only played 64 minutes of football at a club level in 2025-26, mostly due to a serious muscle injury he suffered during the pre-season.
Asked whether Lukaku would accept being a Napoli reserve in 2026-27, Pastorello replied: "Obviously not. He's an extraordinary player, and he's proved it. He's one of the most prolific strikers in the world. It's hard for us to accept a situation like that.
#accept #federico
3 months ago
Provided that everything goes according to plan for Vitor Reis this preseason, the young centre-back should be set for a role at Manchester City this season. After arriving at City from Palmeiras in the January 2025 transfer window and spending six months around the first team, Reis spent last season on loan at Girona. Vitor Reis' time playing in La Liga was well spent. He now seems set to compete for first team football at the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders. In a recent interview, Vitor Reis spoke on the lessons he has learned to date as he prepares to make an impression during Manchester City's preseason.
In an interview with ESPN Brasil, Vitor Reis has spoken on the experience he has gained, first at Manchester City, and from playing regularly with Girona in La Liga during the 2025-26 season. Speaking on how much he learned during his brief spell at City, and who encourages him, Reis said: "City has a great squad and excellent players. I learned a lot during my first spell there, especially from Rúben Dias, who encourages me a lot, and Haaland himself, who is one of the top strikers in world football."
Last season Vitor Reis was sent out on loan to Girona. The hope was that Reis would establish himself as first team regular at Girona. He did exactly that and was one of Girona's best performing players in a season that saw Girona relegated. The young Brazilian defender explained that playing in La Liga helped him grow as an overall player. He explained: "Playing in La Liga helped a lot because I managed to have a good run of games in a very strong and competitive league. Playing regularly makes a difference and I felt a huge improvement last season with Girona. Facing great players like Vini Jr , Yamal , Mbappé and Bellingham requires maximum concentration."
Spending a season playing in Spain was exactly what Vitor Reis needed for his development. He was able to play regularly and grow as a defender. With how Girona played out from the back, Vitor Reis' composure in possession and ability to be a meaningful factor in Girona's build-up play stood out. This attribute will set Reis up for life at Manchester City. Also, Vitor Reis can break the lines with his passing and his decision-making is exceptional for a centre-back. Both are traits that should serve him extremely well playing in the Premier League.
Given that Girona played a high defensive line under Michel, this allowed Vitor Reis to show the traits that should serve him well at Manchester City. Vitor Reis anticipates the play very well, which allows him to pick out danger from opponents at an impressive rate. There is also an intelligence to how Vitor Reis defends. He uses his ability to read the play rather than lunging into challenges. This is another set of skills that should translate into an Enzo Maresca side.
#city #first
In an interview with ESPN Brasil, Vitor Reis has spoken on the experience he has gained, first at Manchester City, and from playing regularly with Girona in La Liga during the 2025-26 season. Speaking on how much he learned during his brief spell at City, and who encourages him, Reis said: "City has a great squad and excellent players. I learned a lot during my first spell there, especially from Rúben Dias, who encourages me a lot, and Haaland himself, who is one of the top strikers in world football."
Last season Vitor Reis was sent out on loan to Girona. The hope was that Reis would establish himself as first team regular at Girona. He did exactly that and was one of Girona's best performing players in a season that saw Girona relegated. The young Brazilian defender explained that playing in La Liga helped him grow as an overall player. He explained: "Playing in La Liga helped a lot because I managed to have a good run of games in a very strong and competitive league. Playing regularly makes a difference and I felt a huge improvement last season with Girona. Facing great players like Vini Jr , Yamal , Mbappé and Bellingham requires maximum concentration."
Spending a season playing in Spain was exactly what Vitor Reis needed for his development. He was able to play regularly and grow as a defender. With how Girona played out from the back, Vitor Reis' composure in possession and ability to be a meaningful factor in Girona's build-up play stood out. This attribute will set Reis up for life at Manchester City. Also, Vitor Reis can break the lines with his passing and his decision-making is exceptional for a centre-back. Both are traits that should serve him extremely well playing in the Premier League.
Given that Girona played a high defensive line under Michel, this allowed Vitor Reis to show the traits that should serve him well at Manchester City. Vitor Reis anticipates the play very well, which allows him to pick out danger from opponents at an impressive rate. There is also an intelligence to how Vitor Reis defends. He uses his ability to read the play rather than lunging into challenges. This is another set of skills that should translate into an Enzo Maresca side.
#city #first
