Milan have agreed the straight loan of Zachary Athekame to Olympique Lyonnais, claim French reports, with no option to make it permanent.
There had already been suggestions today in the Italian media that Athekame was one of the players to be cut from the squad after a disappointing pre-season with new coach Ruben Amorim.
GENOA, ITALY – MAY 17: Zachary Athekame of Milan (right) celebrates with his team-mate Cheveyo Balentien after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and AC Milan at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on May 17, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Just hours later, French transfer pundit Fabrice Hawkins of RMC Sport revealed that Lyon had agreed terms for a dry loan, meaning there is no option to buy at the end of the season.
The Ligue 1 side will cover his full salary during the campaign, but he will then return to San Siro in the summer of 2027.

#option #season

Bad weather in the area forced the Chicago Bears inside the Walter Payton Center for practice today, so, for the second time this year, fans were sent home. My advice for fans traveling a long way for practice: have a backup plan. Don't just drive in for a 90ish-minute practice that may get canceled if it's raining. Camp is an enjoyable experience, and the Bears have several vendors and events lined up to make it a fun, family-friendly time, but last-minute cancellations are always a possibility.
As for the on-field action at today's practice, would you believe that multiple beat reporters praised second-year linebacker Ruben Hyppolite? 1) "Nice day for Ruben Hyppolite out there. He made a few really nice plays, including getting into the backfield." 2) "Ruben Hyppolite had his best practice of camp. Very active on defense." 3) "Made some plays. Sniffed out a screen to Loveland, made the tackle." But we also had this: "Ruben Hyppolite times fast but struggled covering Cole Kmet on routes."
The Bear Report's Zack Pearson shared, "Mixed day for the offense overall. Big play ended practice as Tyson Bagent hit Kaden Davis for a long touchdown. The WR made a nice catch in coverage. Good ball." He also wrote, "Early in practice, Caleb Williams found Jahdae Walker deep for a 61-yard touchdown. The very next play, Case Keenum hit Kaden Davis for a 60-yard touchdown. A lot of that was YAC." He also shared that corner Tyrique Stevenson, who was dinged up yesterday, was back and picked off Caleb in a drill.
CHGO's Adam Jahns said that the blitzes from defensive coordinator Dennis Allen "gave Caleb Williams and Co. plenty of problems in one team period today at practice."
Also, in case you missed it, with Allen in Canton yesterday for Drew Brees' Hall of Fame induction, Al Harris took over as the defensive coordinator during practice.

#made #caleb #touchdown #kaden

The 3-0 friendly defeat to Chelsea helped clarify some of Ruben Amorim's ideas, as Milan have put Pervis Estupinan, Fikayo Tomori, Youssouf Fofana, Samuele Ricci, Zachary Athekame and Santiago Gimenez for sale.
JAKARTA, INDONESIA – AUGUST 08: Head coach Ruben Amorim of AC Milan looks on during the pre-season friendly between Chelsea FC and AC Milan at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on August 08, 2026 in Jakarta, Indonesia. (Photo by Peksi Cahyo/Getty Images)
The new coach said that he wanted time to evaluate the players at his disposal during the summer preparation period, before he would commit to sales and investments.
There were some signs after the most recent match, a 3-0 defeat to Chelsea in Jakarta.
JAKARTA, INDONESIA – AUGUST 08: Rafael Leao of AC Milan shoots against Moises Caicedo of Chelsea FC during the pre-season friendly between Chelsea FC and AC Milan at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on August 08, 2026 in Jakarta, Indonesia. (Photo by Peksi Cahyo/Getty Images)

#Chelsea #ruben

After two preseason friendlies, it is beginning to become apparent that a Manchester City team managed by Enzo Maresca is a different beast to the one that Pep Guardiola created. There are similarities, given that Maresca does want his team to play possession-based football like Guardiola. However, the way that Maresca utilises his wingers, his full-backs and wants his team to press is different to Guardiola. Also, Maresca seems likely to have an opportunity to shape his own Manchester City squad. City have lost several key leaders and it also seems highly likely that Rodri will leave City. Enzo Maresca will now have the opportunity to install his own leaders for his team.
Manchester City have already seen Pep Guardiola, Bernardo Silva, John Stones, and Nathan Ake depart the club this summer. It now looks like Rodri will also depart the Etihad this summer. Fabrizio Romano has reported that Barcelona are increasingly confident of signing Rodri before the summer transfer window closes. Furthermore, Romano reports that Rodri has respectfully informed Manchester City of his intention to return to Spain. Lastly, Romano reports that Barcelona will submit an improved offer for Rodri after seeing their opening bid for the Ballon d'Or-winning midfielder rejected.
With who has already left Manchester City and it seemingly only a matter of time before Rodri departs the club there will be a leadership void in Enzo Maresca's squad. The departures of Stones, Ake and Bernardo Silva, plus Pep Guardiola's departure have created this situation. Rodri's likely move to Barcelona creates a further hole in City's leadership situation.
However, there is an opportunity for other players to now step up and fill a sizable void in Maresca's squad. Also, this scenario does give Enzo Maresca a chance to find the leaders that he feels can lead the way in Manchester City's new era.
It would seem that Erling Haaland and Ruben Dias are the favourites to be Manchester City's next captain. The pair were part of City's captaincy group last season alongside Bernardo Silva and Rodri. However, Enzo Maresca has had an opportunity to look at other players and the leadership traits they possess during Manchester City's preseason tour of Asia.

#city #Opportunity

Chelsea vs. AC Milan free live stream: How to watch online without cable originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Chelsea look to avoid a third successive defeat in preseason when they take on AC Milan in Jakarta, Indonesia on Saturday.
Life under new boss Xabi Alonso hasn't exactly gone to plan just yet with their latest defeat a 1-0 loss to Juventus, but the Spaniard will be welcoming back his World Cup stars now and tinkering his starting XI.
AC Milan are also in a new managerial era with Ruben Amorim now at the helm, who goes up against his former side Manchester United in their final preseason game ahead of the new Serie A campaign.
Here's everything you need to know to watch the Chelsea vs. AC Milan match, including where to watch on TV or live stream, what time the game starts and more.

#Milan #stream #preseason

Chelsea continue their pre-season preparations under new boss Xabi Alonso as they face AC Milan in a friendly in Jakarta, Indonesia.
The Blues have had a rather underwhelming start to life under the Spaniard, albeit with the caveat that thes are all friendlies, with their defence exposed in a frantic 6-4 win over Western Sydney Wanderers before they suffered back-to-back defeats against 10-man Tottenham and Juventus last time out.
AC Milan, who are now managed by former Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim, started their summer tour with a 2-2 draw with Celtic after trailing 2-0 at half-time, before they were held to a 1-1 draw by rivals Inter in their last pre-season friendly.
Chelsea will wrap up their tour with a visit to Malaysia to face Johor Darul Ta'zim before hosting Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge before their Premier League campaign begins.
Here's everything you need to know.

#face #draw

For months, it has been expected that Milan's misfiring star forward Rafa Leão will be moved on this summer.
For weeks, there have been links to the Saudi Pro League, the Süper Lig, as well as distant whispers from the Premier League, while the 27-year-old has also featured for Ruben Amorim in pre-season, hinting that staying at the club is also not out of the question.
And if the latest offer Milan have received for him is anything to go by, they may very well choose to keep him on board.
As reported by the Gianluca Di Marzio, the Rossoneri recently received an offer for Leão from Turkish giants Galatasaray amounting to €30 million plus bonuses worth €5 million, which they have rejected.
The offer falls well short of the €50m valuation Milan are expected to start negotiations at, with the Portugal international still having two more years remaining on his €7m-per-year contract.

#received

Max Alleyne returned to Manchester City in January of last season in City's hour of need after Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol both went down with serious injuries. Alleyne had shone for Watford in the Championship when he was recalled by City. He was immediately thrown into the starting lineup by Pep Guardiola when City took on Brighton at the Etihad and went on to make seven appearances for Manchester City last season. Alleyne showed enough last season that there is a future for him at the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders.
Enzo Maresca's side has now played friendlies against Inter Milan and the K-League All-Stars. Max Alleyne has come on at halftime of both matches. In those two games, Alleyne has looked to be a more mature player and it does seem that his time with Pep Guardiola's squad last season, on top of his time at Watford, has done him the world of good.
Vitor Reis has been impressive playing at centre-back in each of the past two friendlies that Manchester City have played. At the same time, Max Alleyne has quietly gone about his work alongside Vitor Reis. Enzo Maresca's system, much like Pep Guardiola's, employs a high defensive line which means that Manchester City's defenders have to guard for the ball over the top and any counterattacks from Inter Milan and the K-League All-Stars. In this regard, Max Alleyne has been elite. He has closed down danger well and his ability to anticipate the game and any danger from City's past two opponents has also stood out.
In possession, Max Alleyne has also played his role well. He isn't yet a game-breaking centre-back in possession. However, he knows where to play the ball and how to keep Manchester City's possession play ticking over. That has been pleasing to see from Alleyne.
What stands out is that on both sides of the ball, Max Alleyne has benefited from spending the final six months of last season at Manchester City. He understands City's concepts both in and out of possession well. The time he spent as a member of Pep Guardiola's squad last season has prepared him for life under Enzo Maresca.

#last #time

Ruben Amorim outlines where he saw 'improvements' in Milan's 1-1 draw with Inter, warning they need to 'keep more possession,' and treating Rafael Leao 'the same way' as others.
The Rossoneri had gone behind in Perth to a Federico Dimarco goal, with Pervis Estupinan struggling to deal with defending down their left flank.
Christopher Nkunku drew contact with Carlos Augusto and converted the soft penalty to equalise, sealing the 1-1 result of this unusual Australian Derby della Madonnina.
PERTH, AUSTRALIA – AUGUST 05: Goncalo Ramos of AC Milan celebrates with Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan after his goal during the pre-season match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Optus Stadium on August 05, 2026 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by James Worsfold/Getty Images)
"It was important that we didn't lose, but even more important is to keep improving as a team," Amorim told Sky Sport Italia.

#Perth #nkunku

Frenchman Christopher Nkunku converted a late penalty as AC Milan drew 1-1 with rivals Inter Milan in a lacklustre pre-season derby on Wednesday in Perth.
In front of 52,310 fans, Serie A champions Inter Milan appeared to be claiming the bragging rights after Federico Dimarco's strike from close range in the 52nd minute.
But Nkunku was brought down by Carlos Augusto in the 83rd minute before squaring the contest with a superbly taken penalty.
The result ensured that new AC Milan coach Ruben Amorim is still seeking a maiden victory after his reign began with a 2-2 draw in a friendly against Celtic in Glasgow last month.
Amorim, fired as Manchester United coach in January, has been tasked with turning around ailing AC Milan, who missed out on the Champions League last season.

#champions

A soft Christopher Nkunku penalty cancelled out the Federico Dimarco opener, as Inter and Milan drew 1-1 in a pre-season friendly in Perth.
There were several initiatives before kick-off to remember iconic Rossoneri captain Franco Baresi, including a minute's silence with all the players united around his jersey, and the Milan players wearing his Number 6 shirt. Play also halted at the sixth minute for a further moment of remembrance.
PERTH, AUSTRALIA – AUGUST 05: FC Internazionale and AC Milan stand for a minutes silence during the pre-season match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Optus Stadium on August 05, 2026 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Janelle St Pierre/Getty Images)
Francesco Camarda and Davide Bartesaghi both somehow failed to get the crucial touch on a Samuel Chukwueze cross at the back post, then Yunus Musah fired into the upright of a practically open goal on the Ruben Loftus-Cheek pull-back.
Francesco Pio Esposito's acrobatic volley forced a tricky save, as did Piotr Zielinski's flick from 12 yards.

#august

Manchester City have confirmed their starting lineup ahead fo today's friendly against the K-League All-Stars at the Seoul World Cup Stadium in South Korea. Enzo Maresca lost on penalties to Inter Milan in their first friendly of their preseason tour of Asia. The match finished 1-1 and City showed a lot at the Kai Tak Stadium, especially in the second half. They will be looking to build on that performance today in Seoul.
Unfortunately, Ryan McAidoo has been ruled out of today's match due to a shoulder injury. Enzo Maresca informed the media yesterday that McAidoo's injury isn't serious or a cause for concern. Matheus Nunes, Ruben Dias, and Omar Marmoush are all available for today's match against the K-League All-Stars. The trio missed Manchester City's first preseason friendly when they linked up with Enzo Maresca's squad after their World Cup commitments.
Enzo Maresca has selected a strong starting eleven for today's friendly against the K-League All-Stars. The Manchester City starting lineup is almost as strong as Enzo Maresca can select from the players he had available. There were two changes made to the starting eleven from the Inter Milan match with Ruben Dias and Rayan Ait-Nouri replacing Stephen Mfuni and Savinho.
Gianluigi Donnarumma, Abdukodir Khusanov, Ruben Dias (C), Josko Gvardiol, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rico Lewis, Mateo Kovacic, Tijjani Reijnders, Antoine ****** yo, Phil Foden, Divin Mubama.
Bettinelli, Wint, Chabot, Marmoush, Nico, Reis, Savinho, Nunes, Echeverri, Monga, Braithwaite, Mukasa, Alleyne, Sangare, F. Samba, Heskey, Henderson-Hall, Mfuni, Parker.

#enzo #maresca #stars

Manchester City are set to take on the K-League All Stars in their next pre-season friendly on Wednesday at the Seoul World Cup Stadium.
The Premier League champions are only just getting underway with their preparations under new head coach Enzo Maresca, with a clear focus on building fitness levels and integrating the squad. Their first match of the Asia tour came on August 1 in Hong Kong, where they drew 1-1 with Inter Milan in normal time before going on to lose 3-1 on penalties. The upcoming clash in Seoul will be just their second game of the summer.
City are expected to name a heavily rotated and experimental lineup for this high-profile encounter, combining established names with young academy talents.
Maresca has been boosted by the return of Matheus Nunes, Rúben Dias, and Omar Marmoush to the travelling squad, and all three players are likely to get some minutes on the pitch.
However, several key first-team players are still unavailable due to extended breaks following international duty, including Erling Haaland, Jérémy Doku, Marc Guéhi, Rayan Cherki, and Elliot Anderson.

#league

Ruben Dias says former City captain Bernardo Silva is the most underrated footballer he's ever played with.
Men's Team
Bernardo spent nine seasons at City between 2017 and 2026, featuring in more games under Pep Guardiola than any other player throughout a period of historic success.
As a versatile midfielder who could be an effective threat on the wing or provide a solid foundation further back, Bernardo often came out near the top when it came to running stats too.
The Portuguese international was never undervalued by his team-mates, or the world's outstanding coach in Guardiola, but Dias feels the outside perception of him may not have been as laudatory as it could have been.

#city

Max Alleyne has lifted the lid on a hectic 24 hours that saw him preparing to face Hull City one moment and then being named in the Blues' starting XI to face Brighton the next!
Alleyne had been on a season-long loan with Watford and impressed in the 17 games he played for the Championship outfit.
But a defensive injury crisis that saw former boss Pep Guardiola robbed of Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol and John Stones meant the 21-year-old centre-back was needed back at his parent club.
"My debut was a bit crazy," smiled Alleyne,
"I was at Watford and we had Hull away and about five minutes before kick-off, it gets cancelled.

#hull #blues #guardiola

Rúben Amorim has sent a pointed message to Rafael Leão on the eve of his first Milan derby, insisting the forward should feel fortunate to represent the club amid ongoing questions over his future.
With quotes via Tuttomercatoweb, the Milan coach was speaking before Wednesday's pre-season meeting with Inter in Perth.
Asked about Leão, whose exit had looked likely before offers so far failed to materialise, Amorim struck a firm but warm note.
"Rafa is lucky to be at a club like Milan, so he should be happy. I feel that he's happy and motivated," he said. "I don't know what will happen between now and the end of the window, but I feel the group is really united. I haven't heard or seen any difference in Leão compared to the other lads."
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 24: Rafael Leao of AC Milan looks on from the substitutes bench prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Cagliari Calcio at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 24, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

#feel #italy #tuttomercatoweb #Perth

Rafael Leao's situation is impacting every possible incoming at Serie A side Milan and another transfer opportunity is floating away from the Portuguese.
Get Italian Football News have looked at how a second offer for the attacker was incoming. It was unknown whether they would be able to convince the Rossoneri, with Jorge Mendes also closely involved.
But Daniele Longo has reported that the move is very unlikely to go through. Leao himself is a big reason for it as he doesn't appear keen, especially as Fenerbahce have failed come up with a financial offer that convinces the Portugal international.
Sportmediaset- via MilanNews, offer more, noting that Fener have also struggled to reach an agreement Milan.
They offered an initial loan deal but the Rossoneri are only looking to sell Leao permanently. Ruben Amorim's side demand €50 million plus bonuses that can deal to upto €60 million. This has been problematic for Fenerbahce and a host of clubs who have been given the chance to sign him.

#offer #Milan #fenerbahce

Chivas at times dominated but were only able to get a 1-1 tie against Puebla. Chivas was the better side from the start but their scoring troubles continued as they were only able to get a single goal against a Puebla side that looked to defend and counter from the start, giving away most possession. Both teams are going to the Leagues Cup before returning to Liga MX. Puebla will travel to Pachuca in their return while Chivas plays against Santos in Torreon.
The 1st half started with Chivas coming out with their best 11 including Brian Gutierrez from the start. Armando Gonzalez got into the area but his right footed shot would go wide. Roberto Alvarado got off a great left footed shot that was blocked by Puebla's goalkeeper, Ricardo Gutierrez. He would leave the ball there for Gonzalez go get a close range header but Gutierrez made a fantastic save to stop him from a sure goal. Gonzalez got into the area and his left footed shot was blocked by Gutierrez but it bounced off Juan Pablo Vargas and looked like it was going to be an own goal but it hit the post. Chivas was completely dominating the match but the score remained scoreless. Against the run of play, Emiliano Gomez got into the area and get past a defender before getting off a left footed shot that Chivas' goalkeeper Raul Rangel blocked but left there for Eduardo Mustre to get off a left footed shot in the net to score and give Puebla the surprising 1-0 lead. It was the first real chance for the home side and it was a bad mistake from Rangel to give up the lead. From outside the area, Ruben Gonzalez got off a right footed shot that went wide. Facundo Almada made a run into the area but his right footed shot went wide. Daniel Aguirre made a good move in the area and got off a left footed shot that went just wide. A cross into the area was headed by Bryan Alonso Gonzalez but it was cleared by Puebla's defense. Alonso Gonzalez got off a left footed shot inside the area that Gutierrez saved. The halftime whistle blew and although Chivas had played better, it was Puebla who had the lead at the break.
The 2nd half started with neither team making a substitution as it started to rain heavily in Puebla. Kevin Velasco got off a left footed shot from outside the area that Rangel saved. Alvarado would get the ball in the area and get off a right footed shot that hit the post. Chivas subbed out Fernando Gonzalez and Jordan Carrillo for Omar Govea and Efrain Alvarez. Alvarado got off a right footed shot from outside the area that Gutierrez made a great save on it. Off the ensuing corner kick, Chivas surprised by taking it quickly and Roberto Alvarado got off a great left footed shot inside the area that went past Gutierrez to score and tie the match at 1-1. A cross from Alvarado almost would turn into a shot that almost went in. Govea got off a right footed shot that would go well wide. Puebla subbed out Carlos Baltazar and Eduardo Mustre for Mathias Tomas and Luifer Hernandez. Chivas subbed out Arman

After a stop in Miami for one day of practice, the Ohio State men's basketball team will conclude its exhibition trip with a six-day trip to Puerto Rico.
The Buckeyes will conclude summer workouts with two exhibition games on the island while staying in San Juan, and playing in the Arroyo Puerto Rico Classic.
Here's what you need to know about when and where Ohio State will be playing while in Puerto Rico, and here are six things to watch for when the games begin:
Ohio State will play two games while in Puerto Rico. The Buckeyes will play Aug. 2 at noon and Aug. 3 at 1:30 p.m. Both games will be played at Coliseo Ruben Rodriguez.
The Buckeyes will play two games against teams labeled Equipo 1 and Equipo 2. Here are the rosters:

#games #play #equipo #conclude

Since the 2025-26 season ended, Manchester City has seen a host of leadership and experience depart the club. Pep Guardiola stepped down as Manchester City's manager. He has been replaced by Enzo Maresca. Bernardo Silva, Nathan Ake and John Stones have also departed the club. Their departures, coupled with Pep Guardiola's, create a void in terms of leadership and experience in the City squad. Heading into the 2026-27 season, Manchester City do need a new crop of leaders to rise to the fore.
Last season, Pep Guardiola named Bernardo Silva as the Manchester City captain with Ruben Dias, Rodri and Erling Haaland completing Manchester City's leadership group. Of those four players, Bernardo Silva is now a Real Madrid player. There are doubts that surround the future of Rodri. Erling Haaland and Ruben Dias do look to be the standout candidates to become the next captain for Manchester City.
Outside of Haaland, Dias and Rodri, if he stays, Manchester City do need other players to step up and become leaders. It is time for other players to fill the void left behind following the loss of bonafide leaders and experienced players. Gianluigi Donnarumma looks to be a prime candidate to step up as a leader for Enzo Maresca's side. As does Marc Guehi. Both players have been leaders throughout their careers and could make a step up in this regard for Enzo Maresca.
Josko Gvardiol and Phil Foden are two other players who have the potential to be leaders in Manchester City's new era. Foden is now a seasoned professional and knows intimately the high standards demanded at City. Josko Gvardiol has signed a long-term contract extension and the natural progression for him is to become a leader for his team. Foden and Gvardiol are two players who seem primed to step up as leaders and hopefully other candidates will emerge during Manchester City's preseason tour of Asia.
Manchester City do need a new crop of leaders to emerge for the 2026-27 season and beyond. The standards expected at the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders have been established by Pep Guardiola, Bernardo Silva, John Stones, Nathan Ake and the club legends that have departed before them. To carry on those standards, City will need a new batch of leaders to emerge. It is a crucial element of any team and the sooner that Manchester City's next crop of leaders reveal themselves the better it will bw for Enzo Maresca's side.

#enzo

Serie A sides Milan and Roma have an increasingly heated market axis and the latest transfer between them could involve Matias Soule.
This week, the Giallorossi stepped forward for Christopher Nkunku. It was expected the two clubs could open discussions for other players, with the Rossoneri having rejected Roma's approach for the Frenchman.
But PianetaMilan note that it is Milan who have stepped forward for a Giallorossi player in Soule.
They have spoken to his entourage about a possible deal and their interest can grow in the next few weeks. Ruben Amorim is a fan of the Argentine's profile, as he seeks players who have a reliable 1v1 ability and can play in attack.
A move though would depend on Rafael Leao's Milan exit. If he leaves for the required fee of €50 million, they could use that to sign Soule. But for now, the Portuguese staying at Milan is holding up the Rossoneri's entire transfer window and they don't want to wait until August to seal incomings.

#transfer

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Orioles fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
During the recent Orioles press conference about the Kyle Bradish contract extension, principal owner David Rubenstein said of his president of baseball operations Mike Elias that "we couldn't be more pleased" regarding the job that he has done.
Taking that at face value, the question has been answered, Elias will remain the boss of the Orioles front office no matter what happens with the remainder of the season. There are plenty of examples across the sports landscape of why not to take those kinds of proclamations at face value. The "dreaded vote of confidence" is its own recognized part of the manager/GM hot seat. Almost ****** ody ever directly says, "Things need to improve or we're going to fire this guy." They just say nice things when asked and fire the person when they want to fire them.
In this week's survey question, I want to know what you think is going to happen. Is Elias going to be around for next year, or not? Vote in the poll here:
I have thought for a while that if the Orioles do not make the postseason this year, then Elias should be gone at the end of the season. Let someone else figure this thing out, because his answers aren't getting the Orioles where they need to be.

#orioles #going #survey

So far, Manchester United have signed a back-up goalkeeper, two midfielders and a young forward this summer, but former Red Devils defender Danny Simpson says they need fresh blood in another position.
"Lisandro Martinez is injured, Matthijs de Ligt gets injured a lot and Harry Maguire is 33 now, so I think we could do with a centre-back," Simpson told BBC Radio Manchester.
United currently have a wealth of experience in the centre-back department with Martinez, De Ligt and Maguire, but injuries halted their playing time together last season.
It is not yet known if Martinez will be ruled out of the start of the domestic campaign with the injury he picked up during Argentina's World Cup final defeat by Spain.
De Ligt last featured for United in November 2025 under Ruben Amorim.

#martinez #centre #last

From the autumn of 2024 until January 2026, Rúben Amorim was Manchester United's Head Coach. Fittingly, AC Milan's pre-season schedule now includes a meeting with the English side, with the two teams set to face each other on 15 August at the Tarczyński Arena in Wrocław, Poland. There is another intriguing reunion to come, too. Between 1999 and 2019, aside from several loan spells between 2004 and 2009, Ignazio Abate's footballing home was AC Milan. After hanging up his boots, he returned to the Club as Head Coach of the U16 side in 2021/22 before taking charge of the Primavera over the following two seasons. Now, as Torino's Head Coach, he will face his former club when the Rossoneri begin their Serie A campaign away to the Granata on23 August at 20:45 CEST. Both fixtures carry special significance. For Amorim, it will be a reunion with his most recent club. For Abate, it will be a meeting with the Club that shaped both his playing and coaching career. His father, Beniamino, also spent many years working within AC Milan's coaching structure before later joining Torino.
At his first press conference as AC Milan Head Coach, Amorim did not shy away when asked what he had learned from his spell at Manchester United. "It's difficult to explain the mistakes I made because I'd have to do so within the context of my last experience," he said. "The only thing I can say is that I learned a great deal from those mistakes. I didn't have the opportunity – which I regret – to say anything to the Manchester United supporters at the time, but I'm truly proud to have been their coach for a year. Now, at AC Milan, it will be a different story." Two days later, Abate also reflected on the opening-day meeting after taking charge of Torino. "AC Milan was my life; the Club gave me the opportunity to play at the highest level. When I saw the fixture list and noticed Torino against AC Milan, it gave me another reason to hope that I would become Torino's new Head Coach. It will be a pleasure to begin the season against them."
Match kits, clothing, accessories, gift ideas and much more: visit AC Milan online Store!

#Milan #club #manchester #august

Lazio consider AC Milan centre-forward Santiago Gimenez as a priority target, even though signing the Mexican remains a tall order.
The 25-year-old has been on the Aquile's shortlist since his time at Feyenoord. The striker ended up joining Milan on a €30 million deal in January 2025, but has been enduring difficult times at San Siro. Following the arrival of Goncalo Ramos from Paris Saint-Germain, Gimenez may have become surplus to requirements at Ruben Amorim's court. But can Lazio seize the opportunity?
In recent weeks, reports in Italy and England have linked the Biancocelesti with Armando Broja. The 24-year-old is an Albanian striker who rose through the ranks at Chelsea, but is now coming off a disappointing campaign at Burnley. He only scored a single goal in 24 Premier League appearances.
According to Sky Sport Italia journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Broja might be on Lazio's watchlist, but Angelo Fabiani and company aren't keen to sign the Albanian international. Instead, they prefer to wait for more enticing opportunities to arise in the coming weeks, especially Gimenez, a profile well-admired by Gennaro Gattuso.
Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla also confirms Lazio's interest in the Mexican international, but notes that the operation remains difficult, as the capital side would have to overcome several hurdles.

#broja

The San Diego Padres are conducting an exercise in "pitching chaos," and it's something of a last ditch effort. It's the ultimate version of desperation, perhaps, but it's also all they have.
Their most recent predecessors in this are the Detroit Tigers, who did it back to 2024, and they used an two-man rotation along with an ****** ortment of pitching flotsam and jetsam to make the postseason.
"I think they showed it's possible to do," said manager Craig Stammen, who actually opened a handful of games for the Padres earlier this decade, in a piece written by Dennis Lin of The Athletic. "Will we try to replicate that? Maybe some version of that, on some nights."
The Padres' pair of starters is Michael King and Walker Buehler, and Buehler has had more than his share of shaky outings. Bullpen coach Ben Fritz basically pre-scripts most of the games together with pitching coach Ruben Niebla, and they're hunting matchups while trying to limit exposure.
"Looking at personnel, looking at who you have and how we maximize our chances, we'd be foolish to not try something different," Fritz said.

#pitching #looking #games #diego

Where to watch Celtic vs. AC Milan live stream, TV channel, start time for summer friendly originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Celtic host AC Milan on Saturday in a preseason friendly game in Glasgow, Scotland.
The Scottish champions, who ****** ed the ****** le from Hearts on a memorable final day of last season, have already played three warm-up games ahead of the start of 2026/27, most recently drawing with EFL Championship side Middlesbrough.
AC Milan, now coached by former Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim, are at the beginning of their preseason preparations. They have games to come against city rivals Inter, Chelsea, and Amorim's former club before they start their Serie A campaign against Torino on August 23.
The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times and the weekly schedule.

#watch

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

Serie A side Milan have signed a possible replacement for Strahinja Pavlovic, with Troyes talent Sankhoun Diawara having arrived on a permanent deal.
Rangers had tried to sign the defender and were offering an attractive project that would've drafted him directly into the club first-team.
La Gazzetta dello Sport note that after a push, Milan have secured Diawara's services. Initially, they had played to have him as part of the Futuro side but the club's management have decided to make him a part of the first-team, as someone who will replace Pavlovic in the future.
The two players are very similar – left-footed and tall, while possessing a reliable ability on the ball. Milan want to see Diawara grow into the player the Serbian is, with the player expected to cost around €3 million.
For quite a while, it seemed like Rangers would seal the move. Milan's plan suggest a long-term plan which they also somewhat followed for Davide Bartesaghi and their academy graduates in recent years have done quite well. Diawara comes at a key point in his career and Ruben Amorim likes the profile of young defenders that can play on the left side of the back three. This will put him in good stead during his time at the Rossoneri.

#side #rangers #part #player

As suggested by La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ardon Jashari may yet have a future at Milan.
The 23-year-old midfielder was on his way out of San Siro after an unfortunate debut campaign that saw him suffer a broken fibula early into the season, after which he struggled to get minutes under Max Allegri, managing just 17 appearances.
But Allegri is long gone now. With Ruben Amorim preparing for the new season Down Under, the Swiss international has a chance to revitalise his nascent Milan career. His ball-playing and tackling capabilities in tandem will be in high demand for the 3-4-2-1 Amorim is widely expected to deploy, a formation that demands a lot of its midfield pivot.
Moreover, Luka Modrić may be continuing for another year, but the quadragenarian can hardly be expected to feature week in, week out, especially on the back of a World Cup campaign and in a season that will see Milan feature in the Europa League.
So Modrić will start next season with limited minutes, if any, and grow into the campaign. In him, a young player like Jashari could find a senior operator to help him hone his craft and become a mainstay in the middle of the park for the Rossoneri by the end of the season. A clean slate under Amorim means Jashari will not have to worry about past perceptions and start impressing on day one.

#campaign