8 days ago
On August 6, APA Corporation (NASDAQ:APA) held its second-quarter earnings call, and one number stood out from the rest. The oil and gas producer is now holding its Permian oil production steady with four drilling rigs, half the eight it once estimated it would need. Adjusted production of 347,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day beat management's own guidance, free cash flow kept climbing, and the balance sheet is healing faster than planned. That combination is the story of the quarter.
APA raised its full-year US oil guidance to 123,000 barrels per day, up from an original 120,000, while holding its capital budget at $1.3 billion despite higher diesel and other input costs. Management also lifted its cost-savings target to $500 million in annualized run-rate savings by year-end, up from the $450 million goal it set at the start of the year.
That flexibility is showing up in cash flow. Free cash flow hit $738 million in the second quarter, pushing the first half of 2026 past $1.2 billion, which topped what APA generated in each of the past three full years. The company returned $189 million of that to shareholders through dividends and the repurchase of 2.8 million shares at an average price of $35.26, continuing a streak of returning at least 60% of free cash flow to investors every year since 2021.
The balance sheet is moving just as fast. Net debt stood at $3.3 billion at quarter-end after APA repaid $752 million of bonds in the first half, including $673 million in the second quarter alone, cutting total debt by $2.3 billion since the end of 2024 and lowering annualized interest expense by roughly $175 million. Management now expects to hit its $3 billion net debt target in 2027, well ahead of the three- to four-year window it laid out when the goal was first announced.
Further out, APA is building option value beyond its core Permian and Egypt ****** ets. It agreed to acquire Savant Alaska for $70 million, picking up an airstrip, a dock, and a pipeline connection into the Trans Alaska system to support two exploration wells planned for 2027. In Uruguay, ENI signed on as a partner in Block 6, funding a significant share of the first exploration well while APA keeps 60% ownership. In Suriname, the GranMorgu project remains on budget for first oil in mid-2028.
#billion
APA raised its full-year US oil guidance to 123,000 barrels per day, up from an original 120,000, while holding its capital budget at $1.3 billion despite higher diesel and other input costs. Management also lifted its cost-savings target to $500 million in annualized run-rate savings by year-end, up from the $450 million goal it set at the start of the year.
That flexibility is showing up in cash flow. Free cash flow hit $738 million in the second quarter, pushing the first half of 2026 past $1.2 billion, which topped what APA generated in each of the past three full years. The company returned $189 million of that to shareholders through dividends and the repurchase of 2.8 million shares at an average price of $35.26, continuing a streak of returning at least 60% of free cash flow to investors every year since 2021.
The balance sheet is moving just as fast. Net debt stood at $3.3 billion at quarter-end after APA repaid $752 million of bonds in the first half, including $673 million in the second quarter alone, cutting total debt by $2.3 billion since the end of 2024 and lowering annualized interest expense by roughly $175 million. Management now expects to hit its $3 billion net debt target in 2027, well ahead of the three- to four-year window it laid out when the goal was first announced.
Further out, APA is building option value beyond its core Permian and Egypt ****** ets. It agreed to acquire Savant Alaska for $70 million, picking up an airstrip, a dock, and a pipeline connection into the Trans Alaska system to support two exploration wells planned for 2027. In Uruguay, ENI signed on as a partner in Block 6, funding a significant share of the first exploration well while APA keeps 60% ownership. In Suriname, the GranMorgu project remains on budget for first oil in mid-2028.
#billion
8 days ago
On August 6, Millicom International Cellular (NASDAQ:TIGO) released its second-quarter 2026 results, and the numbers pulled in two directions at once. Revenue jumped 59.4% year over year to $2.18 billion, while Adjusted EBITDA crossed $1 billion for the first time in the company's history at $1.01 billion, up 58% from a year earlier. Yet net profit attributable to company owners fell 83.9% to just $109 million. Investors weighing this quarter have to decide which of those two stories actually describes the business.
The headline figures are hard to ignore. Service revenue reached $2.04 billion in the quarter, up 60.1% year over year, while H1 2026 revenue climbed to $4.16 billion from $2.74 billion a year earlier, a 52.3% increase. Equity free cash flow hit a quarterly record of $327 million, up 50.1% from a year ago, and leverage actually fell to 2.73x even after Millicom absorbed acquisitions in Colombia, Ecuador and Uruguay. That combination, rising cash generation alongside falling leverage during an acquisition spree, is the kind of signal that tends to matter more than a single quarter's headline growth rate.
Management is backing that signal with cash. Millicom already declared a $3.00 per share dividend in May, to be paid out quarterly over the next 12 months, and on August 5, the board approved an additional interim dividend of $1.50 per share, split into two $0.75 installments due January 15, 2027, and April 15, 2027. The company also raised its full-year 2026 equity free cash flow guidance from at least $900 million to around $1.1 billion, while lowering its year-end leverage target from about 2.5x to below 2.5x. CEO Marcelo Benitez pointed to Ecuador and Uruguay as evidence the integration playbook works, saying both markets have reached margins and cash generation broadly in line with the Millicom average, with Colombia and Chile now showing early improvement on the same path.
Strip out the acquisitions, and the picture looks far less dramatic. Organic revenue growth was just 4.3% in the quarter and 4.2% for the first half, a fraction of the 59.4% and 52.3% reported figures. Most of what shows up in the headline number is Millicom buying its way to a bigger top line, not the existing business accelerating on its own.
The profit line raises a separate question. Net profit attributable to company owners dropped to $109 million from $676 million a year earlier, and the first-half figure fell 74.9% to $218 million from $869 million, even as EBITDA and cash flow set records over the same stretch. That gap between a surging EBITDA number and a collapsing bottom line is the kind of divergence that deserves scrutiny rather than a shrug. Capital spending is climbing too, up 51.2% to $234 million in the quarter and 48.8% to $426 million for the half, running well ahead of the organic growth rate it is meant to fund. And the balance sheet is still in motion: in July 2026, Bolivia took on five new local bank loans totaling roughly $44 millio
The headline figures are hard to ignore. Service revenue reached $2.04 billion in the quarter, up 60.1% year over year, while H1 2026 revenue climbed to $4.16 billion from $2.74 billion a year earlier, a 52.3% increase. Equity free cash flow hit a quarterly record of $327 million, up 50.1% from a year ago, and leverage actually fell to 2.73x even after Millicom absorbed acquisitions in Colombia, Ecuador and Uruguay. That combination, rising cash generation alongside falling leverage during an acquisition spree, is the kind of signal that tends to matter more than a single quarter's headline growth rate.
Management is backing that signal with cash. Millicom already declared a $3.00 per share dividend in May, to be paid out quarterly over the next 12 months, and on August 5, the board approved an additional interim dividend of $1.50 per share, split into two $0.75 installments due January 15, 2027, and April 15, 2027. The company also raised its full-year 2026 equity free cash flow guidance from at least $900 million to around $1.1 billion, while lowering its year-end leverage target from about 2.5x to below 2.5x. CEO Marcelo Benitez pointed to Ecuador and Uruguay as evidence the integration playbook works, saying both markets have reached margins and cash generation broadly in line with the Millicom average, with Colombia and Chile now showing early improvement on the same path.
Strip out the acquisitions, and the picture looks far less dramatic. Organic revenue growth was just 4.3% in the quarter and 4.2% for the first half, a fraction of the 59.4% and 52.3% reported figures. Most of what shows up in the headline number is Millicom buying its way to a bigger top line, not the existing business accelerating on its own.
The profit line raises a separate question. Net profit attributable to company owners dropped to $109 million from $676 million a year earlier, and the first-half figure fell 74.9% to $218 million from $869 million, even as EBITDA and cash flow set records over the same stretch. That gap between a surging EBITDA number and a collapsing bottom line is the kind of divergence that deserves scrutiny rather than a shrug. Capital spending is climbing too, up 51.2% to $234 million in the quarter and 48.8% to $426 million for the half, running well ahead of the organic growth rate it is meant to fund. And the balance sheet is still in motion: in July 2026, Bolivia took on five new local bank loans totaling roughly $44 millio
16 days ago
Cienciano del Cusco made a statement in the first leg of the 2026 Copa Sudamericana quarter-finals.
The imperial side made the most of the more than 3,300 meters of altitude at their home ground and defeated Montevideo City Torque, taking a valuable lead in the continental tie.
From the start of the match at the Inca Garcilaso de la Vega Stadium, the Peruvian side set a relentless pace to suffocate the Uruguayan team. With high pressing and constant ball movement, Cienciano turned its superiority into goals and controlled the key moments of the match.
With this favorable result at home, 'Papá' will travel to Montevideo with the comfort of holding the advantage on aggregate. The return leg will decide who advances to the semi-finals of the South American tournament.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.
#cienciano #montevideo #made #match
The imperial side made the most of the more than 3,300 meters of altitude at their home ground and defeated Montevideo City Torque, taking a valuable lead in the continental tie.
From the start of the match at the Inca Garcilaso de la Vega Stadium, the Peruvian side set a relentless pace to suffocate the Uruguayan team. With high pressing and constant ball movement, Cienciano turned its superiority into goals and controlled the key moments of the match.
With this favorable result at home, 'Papá' will travel to Montevideo with the comfort of holding the advantage on aggregate. The return leg will decide who advances to the semi-finals of the South American tournament.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.
#cienciano #montevideo #made #match
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21 days ago
A member of the loan ranks at La Liga champions Barcelona enjoyed something of a breakout performance in the colours of his new club this weekend.
The player in question? Ronald Araújo.
Stopper Araújo of course brought a surprise close to his Barcelona stint earlier this summer, taking his talents to Premier League heavyweights Liverpool on loan for the duration of the campaign.
The Uruguayan had since endured something of a hit-and-miss start to life at Anfield, accused of looking clumsy across a pair of appearances off the bench.
On Friday evening, though, Araújo provided a glimpse at the kind of physical dominance of which he is capable when firing on all cylinders.
#loan #liga #league #uruguayan
The player in question? Ronald Araújo.
Stopper Araújo of course brought a surprise close to his Barcelona stint earlier this summer, taking his talents to Premier League heavyweights Liverpool on loan for the duration of the campaign.
The Uruguayan had since endured something of a hit-and-miss start to life at Anfield, accused of looking clumsy across a pair of appearances off the bench.
On Friday evening, though, Araújo provided a glimpse at the kind of physical dominance of which he is capable when firing on all cylinders.
#loan #liga #league #uruguayan
30 days ago
Created in 1930 by a Uruguayan teacher, futsal has subsequently become one of the most popular participation sports in the world.
The game initially spread quickly around South America, before gaining wider popularity in countries where inclement weather conditions hindered outdoor sports.
Fast forward to today, and futsal is a global phenomenon that attracts significant interest from broadcasters, sponsors and betting companies.
Many football fans now engage in futsal betting online, with the sport's fast-paced nature making it an intriguing proposition for bettors.
With that in mind, read on as we take a closer look at futsal before ******* sing why football supporters are increasingly engaging with the sport.
#futsal #created
The game initially spread quickly around South America, before gaining wider popularity in countries where inclement weather conditions hindered outdoor sports.
Fast forward to today, and futsal is a global phenomenon that attracts significant interest from broadcasters, sponsors and betting companies.
Many football fans now engage in futsal betting online, with the sport's fast-paced nature making it an intriguing proposition for bettors.
With that in mind, read on as we take a closer look at futsal before ******* sing why football supporters are increasingly engaging with the sport.
#futsal #created
1 month ago
Liverpool have finally had clarification on the future of one of their attackers.
The Reds now have less than a week to get all of their ducks in a row before the transfer window slams shut.
Andoni Iraola has made three new additions to his squad already this summer and, while these were all positive purchases, it still doesn't none of them really scream **** le challengers.
Indeed, Ronald Araujo is the highest-profile player that has been brought in but, even the Uruguayan has some question marks hanging over him.
However, the fact that Liverpool still haven't got their squad confirmed yet with less than a week left of the window is massively concerning.
#less #andoni #iraola #indeed
The Reds now have less than a week to get all of their ducks in a row before the transfer window slams shut.
Andoni Iraola has made three new additions to his squad already this summer and, while these were all positive purchases, it still doesn't none of them really scream **** le challengers.
Indeed, Ronald Araujo is the highest-profile player that has been brought in but, even the Uruguayan has some question marks hanging over him.
However, the fact that Liverpool still haven't got their squad confirmed yet with less than a week left of the window is massively concerning.
#less #andoni #iraola #indeed
1 month ago
Kelwin dribbles past the goalkeeper and scores a beautiful goalCredits: Rafael Ribeiro / CBF
Brazil's Under-15 National Team defeated Uruguay 7-0 this Saturday (22) at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis (RJ), in the team's final friendly before the Liga Evolução tournament, which will take place in September in Paraguay. Brener, Kelwin, Lucas Jorge, Isaac, Samuell and Gabriel Bueno (2) scored for the young Seleção. On Wednesday (19), Brazil and Uruguay also faced each other at the same venue, with the Brazilian side winning 4-0.
Head coach Guilherme Dalla Déa fielded a very different lineup from the one that played on Wednesday. He wanted to make new observations and clear up any possible doubts ahead of Tuesday's call-up (25), when he will announce the list of 20 players who will represent Brazil in Liga Evolução.
With another standout performance, Brazil opened the scoring in the 8th minute through Brener, who headed home after an **** ist from Diego Bento. Despite Uruguay's tight marking, Dalla Déa's players moved the ball quickly, were sharp in their movement, and used dribbles to open up plays, constantly threatening the opposition defense.
Brener celebrates Brazil's first goal in the routCredits: Rafael Ribeiro / CBF
#uruguay #liga
Brazil's Under-15 National Team defeated Uruguay 7-0 this Saturday (22) at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis (RJ), in the team's final friendly before the Liga Evolução tournament, which will take place in September in Paraguay. Brener, Kelwin, Lucas Jorge, Isaac, Samuell and Gabriel Bueno (2) scored for the young Seleção. On Wednesday (19), Brazil and Uruguay also faced each other at the same venue, with the Brazilian side winning 4-0.
Head coach Guilherme Dalla Déa fielded a very different lineup from the one that played on Wednesday. He wanted to make new observations and clear up any possible doubts ahead of Tuesday's call-up (25), when he will announce the list of 20 players who will represent Brazil in Liga Evolução.
With another standout performance, Brazil opened the scoring in the 8th minute through Brener, who headed home after an **** ist from Diego Bento. Despite Uruguay's tight marking, Dalla Déa's players moved the ball quickly, were sharp in their movement, and used dribbles to open up plays, constantly threatening the opposition defense.
Brener celebrates Brazil's first goal in the routCredits: Rafael Ribeiro / CBF
#uruguay #liga
1 month ago
U-15 National Team plays another friendly against Uruguay this SaturdayCredits: Rafael Ribeiro / CBF
The Brazil U-15 National Team wraps up this Saturday (22) the fifth and final stage of preparation for the Liga Evolución with a friendly against Uruguay at 10 a.m. at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro. CBF TV will broadcast the match. On Wednesday (19), the two teams faced each other at the same venue, with Brazil winning 4-0.
The new match will once again serve as an opportunity for head coach Guilherme Dalla Déa to ***** s the squad ahead of the call-up, which will be announced on Tuesday (25) for the Liga Evolución, the equivalent of the South American championship for the age group.
The competition will be held in Paraguay, and Brazil will be aiming for a second straight ***** le. In the opening stage, the U-15 National Team is in the same group as Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Their debut is scheduled for September 9 against Ecuador in the city of Luque.
Guilherme Dalla Déa during training on Friday morning at Granja ComaryCredits: Rafael Ribeiro / CBF
#national #uruguay #rafael #guilherme
The Brazil U-15 National Team wraps up this Saturday (22) the fifth and final stage of preparation for the Liga Evolución with a friendly against Uruguay at 10 a.m. at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro. CBF TV will broadcast the match. On Wednesday (19), the two teams faced each other at the same venue, with Brazil winning 4-0.
The new match will once again serve as an opportunity for head coach Guilherme Dalla Déa to ***** s the squad ahead of the call-up, which will be announced on Tuesday (25) for the Liga Evolución, the equivalent of the South American championship for the age group.
The competition will be held in Paraguay, and Brazil will be aiming for a second straight ***** le. In the opening stage, the U-15 National Team is in the same group as Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Their debut is scheduled for September 9 against Ecuador in the city of Luque.
Guilherme Dalla Déa during training on Friday morning at Granja ComaryCredits: Rafael Ribeiro / CBF
#national #uruguay #rafael #guilherme
1 month ago
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JULY 18: Bradley Barcola #12 of France reacts after the 4-6 loss during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Bronze Final between France and England at Miami Stadium on July 18, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Stier - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
Most Liverpool fans expected their club to have a big summer. This was certainly the case when Arne Slot was replaced by Andoni Iraola as manager following the end of the 2025/26 season. This was predicted to be the start of a transformational period for the Anfield club. So far, though, Iraola's appointment has been a false start.
As things stand, Liverpool has made just two permanent signings this summer. One of those was a deal completed in February with Jeremy Jacquet only making the move to Merseyside once the transfer window opened. The other was for Victor Munoz, a winger most expect to be a depth option for the Reds.
Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola applauds the fans following the pre-season match at Anfield, Liverpool. Picture date: Sunday August 16, 2026. (Photo by Peter Byrne/PA Images via Getty Images)
Ronald Araujo has joined on loan from Barcelona to give Iraola more depth in the defensive ranks. The Uruguayan fell down the pecking order at the Camp Nou and is hopeful that a switch to the Premier League will revitalise him. Araujo, however, isn't a long-term addition for the Anfield club.
#fifa #iraola #gardens #Florida
Most Liverpool fans expected their club to have a big summer. This was certainly the case when Arne Slot was replaced by Andoni Iraola as manager following the end of the 2025/26 season. This was predicted to be the start of a transformational period for the Anfield club. So far, though, Iraola's appointment has been a false start.
As things stand, Liverpool has made just two permanent signings this summer. One of those was a deal completed in February with Jeremy Jacquet only making the move to Merseyside once the transfer window opened. The other was for Victor Munoz, a winger most expect to be a depth option for the Reds.
Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola applauds the fans following the pre-season match at Anfield, Liverpool. Picture date: Sunday August 16, 2026. (Photo by Peter Byrne/PA Images via Getty Images)
Ronald Araujo has joined on loan from Barcelona to give Iraola more depth in the defensive ranks. The Uruguayan fell down the pecking order at the Camp Nou and is hopeful that a switch to the Premier League will revitalise him. Araujo, however, isn't a long-term addition for the Anfield club.
#fifa #iraola #gardens #Florida
1 month ago
Brazil U-15 National Team faces Uruguay at Granja ComaryCredits: Rafael Ribeiro / CBF
As part of another stage of preparation for the Liga Evolução, which will be played in September in Paraguay, the Brazil Men's U-15 National Team takes on Uruguay this Wednesday (19) at 11 a.m. at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis (RJ). The friendly kicks off at 11 a.m., with live coverage on CBF TV. On Saturday (22), the two teams will face each other again at the same venue.
"The two matches are meant to consolidate our ideas, the concepts we've worked on with the players during these seven days of activities at Granja Comary. Above all, to consolidate their behaviors, and that has also been worked on with the U-17 and U-20 national teams. We have to understand the importance of the emotional aspect for this U-15 generation, which is heading into its first official competition. The hope is that they can do everything we proposed during this period with awareness," said head coach Guilherme Dalla Déa.
Guilherme Dalla Déa, U-15 head coach, expects a difficult match against UruguayCredits: Rafael Ribeiro / CBF
He highlighted the opponent's physical style, stressing that it broadens the possibilities for evaluating the Brazilian players against a specific kind of challenge.
#national #team #ribeiro #dalla
As part of another stage of preparation for the Liga Evolução, which will be played in September in Paraguay, the Brazil Men's U-15 National Team takes on Uruguay this Wednesday (19) at 11 a.m. at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis (RJ). The friendly kicks off at 11 a.m., with live coverage on CBF TV. On Saturday (22), the two teams will face each other again at the same venue.
"The two matches are meant to consolidate our ideas, the concepts we've worked on with the players during these seven days of activities at Granja Comary. Above all, to consolidate their behaviors, and that has also been worked on with the U-17 and U-20 national teams. We have to understand the importance of the emotional aspect for this U-15 generation, which is heading into its first official competition. The hope is that they can do everything we proposed during this period with awareness," said head coach Guilherme Dalla Déa.
Guilherme Dalla Déa, U-15 head coach, expects a difficult match against UruguayCredits: Rafael Ribeiro / CBF
He highlighted the opponent's physical style, stressing that it broadens the possibilities for evaluating the Brazilian players against a specific kind of challenge.
#national #team #ribeiro #dalla
1 month ago
The Brazilian Men's National Team has been called up for the CONMEBOL South American U-20 Futsal Championship, which will take place from September 26 to October 4 in Barquisimeto, Venezuela. This Tuesday (18), head coach Cafu announced the list of 14 players who will represent Brazil in the competition.
The most successful team in the tournament's history, Brazil has won eight CONMEBOL South American U-20 Futsal ******* les and heads to Venezuela in search of another continental trophy.
Before its debut, the Brazilian National Team will begin preparations in São José do Vale do Rio Preto (RJ), where the squad will hold its training camp.
In the first stage, Brazil is in Group B alongside Argentina, Peru, Ecuador, and Chile. Group A consists of Venezuela, Colombia, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Bolivia.
The ten national teams were divided into two groups of five and will play a single round-robin in the preliminary stage. The top two teams in each group will advance to the semifinals. The remaining teams will continue in the competition to determine places from fifth to ninth.
#Brazil
The most successful team in the tournament's history, Brazil has won eight CONMEBOL South American U-20 Futsal ******* les and heads to Venezuela in search of another continental trophy.
Before its debut, the Brazilian National Team will begin preparations in São José do Vale do Rio Preto (RJ), where the squad will hold its training camp.
In the first stage, Brazil is in Group B alongside Argentina, Peru, Ecuador, and Chile. Group A consists of Venezuela, Colombia, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Bolivia.
The ten national teams were divided into two groups of five and will play a single round-robin in the preliminary stage. The top two teams in each group will advance to the semifinals. The remaining teams will continue in the competition to determine places from fifth to ninth.
#Brazil
2 months ago
Fluminense take the field this Tuesday (11) at the Maracanã at 7 p.m. (Brasília time) to face Independiente Rivadavia in the first leg of the 2026 Conmebol Libertadores Round of 16.
The return leg will be next Tuesday (18) at Estádio Malvinas Argentinas, at the same time.
Also, because they had the worst overall campaign in the group stage, the Tricolor das Laranjeiras will always play the second leg away from home through the semifinals.
The 2026 Libertadores final — once again a single-match final — is scheduled for November 28 at Estadio Centenario in Uruguay.
#tuesday #final #Independiente
The return leg will be next Tuesday (18) at Estádio Malvinas Argentinas, at the same time.
Also, because they had the worst overall campaign in the group stage, the Tricolor das Laranjeiras will always play the second leg away from home through the semifinals.
The 2026 Libertadores final — once again a single-match final — is scheduled for November 28 at Estadio Centenario in Uruguay.
#tuesday #final #Independiente
2 months ago
Real Madrid bid goodbye to their club captain Dani Carvajal at the end of last season, with the Spaniard leaving upon the expiry of his contract.
The right-back has been a part of Los Blancos' storied history over the last decade, but injuries had mostly kept him out in recent seasons.
The club had to appoint a captain to take over the armband from Carvajal, and Federico Valverde emerged as the frontrunner for the role.
The Uruguayan midfielder has been with the club for many years now, is one of the first names on the team sheet and is a consistent performer.
Despite having an indifferent World Cup campaign with the South American nation, where he struggled to get going, Valverde was always going to be important for Real Madrid.
#club #valverde #captain #spaniard
The right-back has been a part of Los Blancos' storied history over the last decade, but injuries had mostly kept him out in recent seasons.
The club had to appoint a captain to take over the armband from Carvajal, and Federico Valverde emerged as the frontrunner for the role.
The Uruguayan midfielder has been with the club for many years now, is one of the first names on the team sheet and is a consistent performer.
Despite having an indifferent World Cup campaign with the South American nation, where he struggled to get going, Valverde was always going to be important for Real Madrid.
#club #valverde #captain #spaniard
2 months ago
Ronald Araujo is in the door at Liverpool, so onto Bradley Barcola next – or so the theory goes, except there's one problem.
On Monday evening, the Reds confirmed the arrival of the Uruguayan defender on a season-long loan from Barcelona, with the option to sign him permanently next year for £47.1m (The Athletic).
With that move completed, sporting director Richard Hughes can turn his full attention to trying to land the Paris Saint-Germain winger, who's reportedly agreed a five-year contract at Anfield. However, it isn't just the Parisians' asking price of £128m (TEAMtalk) which is acting as an impediment to that pursuit.
As neatly explained by Michael Reid (Football Data Editor with OptaJoe) on X, Araujo's arrival has taken Liverpool to the maximum permissible quota of 17 non-homegrown players for their 2026/27 Premier League squad.
Essentially, this means that if the Reds are to sign Barcola, they'd either have to sell one of those 17 players to make room for him, or omit a current player from their top-flight squad until January.
#sign #players
On Monday evening, the Reds confirmed the arrival of the Uruguayan defender on a season-long loan from Barcelona, with the option to sign him permanently next year for £47.1m (The Athletic).
With that move completed, sporting director Richard Hughes can turn his full attention to trying to land the Paris Saint-Germain winger, who's reportedly agreed a five-year contract at Anfield. However, it isn't just the Parisians' asking price of £128m (TEAMtalk) which is acting as an impediment to that pursuit.
As neatly explained by Michael Reid (Football Data Editor with OptaJoe) on X, Araujo's arrival has taken Liverpool to the maximum permissible quota of 17 non-homegrown players for their 2026/27 Premier League squad.
Essentially, this means that if the Reds are to sign Barcola, they'd either have to sell one of those 17 players to make room for him, or omit a current player from their top-flight squad until January.
#sign #players
2 months ago
New loan signing Ronald Araujo will take inspiration from "role model" Virgil van Dijk when he lines up alongside the Liverpool captain.
The 27-year-old Uruguay international has taken a pay cut to facilitate his move, for which the club have an option to buy for a pre-agreed price – believed to be £47 million ($63.5 million) – should it prove successful.
And the chance to play with a fellow centre-back still rated as one of the world's best is something he is looking forward to.
"We all know what a great player Virgil is. He's a real reference point for the team and he's a kind of role model and reference for me personally as well," he told the club's website.
"I am excited to have that opportunity and enjoy learning from him, playing alongside him. With hard work, I think we can achieve good things together as a partnership and as a defence."
#role #dijk
The 27-year-old Uruguay international has taken a pay cut to facilitate his move, for which the club have an option to buy for a pre-agreed price – believed to be £47 million ($63.5 million) – should it prove successful.
And the chance to play with a fellow centre-back still rated as one of the world's best is something he is looking forward to.
"We all know what a great player Virgil is. He's a real reference point for the team and he's a kind of role model and reference for me personally as well," he told the club's website.
"I am excited to have that opportunity and enjoy learning from him, playing alongside him. With hard work, I think we can achieve good things together as a partnership and as a defence."
#role #dijk
2 months ago
Zoe Saldaña has starred in blockbusting franchises "Star Trek," "Guardians of the Galaxy" and "Avatar," has won an Oscar for "Emilia Perez" and holds the crown as the actor whose films have earned the most money ever. So what comes next?
"I have a feeling that I can only watch other people's direction for so long until I kind of say: 'Give me that camera!'" Saldaña told an audience at Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland. "Because women, we all think that we're right because we are half the time. So I would like to prove myself."
More from Variety
Locarno Open Doors: Talemwa Pius' 'A Vineyard for a Lobster' and Mohammed Sheikh's 'Accept My Plea for a Burial' Win Top Prizes at Festival's Africa Industry Focus
Latin Quarter Distribution Acquires World Rights to José Dell'Acqua Uruguayan Crime Thriller 'Maltrato Animal' (EXCLUSIVE)
#galaxy #emilia
"I have a feeling that I can only watch other people's direction for so long until I kind of say: 'Give me that camera!'" Saldaña told an audience at Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland. "Because women, we all think that we're right because we are half the time. So I would like to prove myself."
More from Variety
Locarno Open Doors: Talemwa Pius' 'A Vineyard for a Lobster' and Mohammed Sheikh's 'Accept My Plea for a Burial' Win Top Prizes at Festival's Africa Industry Focus
Latin Quarter Distribution Acquires World Rights to José Dell'Acqua Uruguayan Crime Thriller 'Maltrato Animal' (EXCLUSIVE)
#galaxy #emilia
2 months ago
The shock departure of Ronald Araujo from Barcelona to Liverpool shocked the world, especially given how it was a move that appeared out of the blue.
As matters stand, the Uruguayan star has already travelled to England for his medicals with the Merseyside club willing to pay out his full salary during his loan stint.
The development thus arrives as a massive boost to Barcelona's plans, although it does leave them an option short in the department. Deco and Co. are busy scouting the market on that front.
As confirmed by MARCA in a recent report, Aymeric Laporte is an option Deco and Hansi Flick truly admire, and the club have made contact with him in the past.
Deco admires Laporte. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
#club #ronald #Barcelona #uruguayan
As matters stand, the Uruguayan star has already travelled to England for his medicals with the Merseyside club willing to pay out his full salary during his loan stint.
The development thus arrives as a massive boost to Barcelona's plans, although it does leave them an option short in the department. Deco and Co. are busy scouting the market on that front.
As confirmed by MARCA in a recent report, Aymeric Laporte is an option Deco and Hansi Flick truly admire, and the club have made contact with him in the past.
Deco admires Laporte. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
#club #ronald #Barcelona #uruguayan
2 months ago
Lionel Messi was missing following the death of his father as Inter Miami lost 2-1 to visiting Monterrey on Saturday in a Leagues Cup match.
Teams observed a minute of silence before the match for Jorge Messi, who died at age 68 in Argentina, where the Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi arrived on Saturday night.
"Our hearts are with our captain, Leo, and the entire Messi family," Inter Miami said in a statement.
Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul scored in the 32nd minute to give Miami a 1-0 half-time lead in the group match against the Mexican side.
Belgian striker Hugo Cuypers leveled in the 47th minute before Uruguayan striker Diego Rossi scored a 90th-minute winner.
#minute #lionel #captain #striker
Teams observed a minute of silence before the match for Jorge Messi, who died at age 68 in Argentina, where the Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi arrived on Saturday night.
"Our hearts are with our captain, Leo, and the entire Messi family," Inter Miami said in a statement.
Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul scored in the 32nd minute to give Miami a 1-0 half-time lead in the group match against the Mexican side.
Belgian striker Hugo Cuypers leveled in the 47th minute before Uruguayan striker Diego Rossi scored a 90th-minute winner.
#minute #lionel #captain #striker
2 months ago
A game in Uruguay's second division led to a surreal situation this Saturday (8).
The match between Uruguay Montevideo and Paysandú featured a huge clearance that caused a traffic accident on the highway running alongside the stadium.
The ball cleared out of the field landed on the road, made one car brake, and the vehicle coming right behind crashed into its rear.
The scene at Parque ANCAP stadium in Montevideo was caught by the match broadcast itself and quickly spread on social media.
On the field, Uruguay Montevideo beat Paysandú 1-0. Off it, the losers were the drivers involved in the accident.
#montevideo #paysand
The match between Uruguay Montevideo and Paysandú featured a huge clearance that caused a traffic accident on the highway running alongside the stadium.
The ball cleared out of the field landed on the road, made one car brake, and the vehicle coming right behind crashed into its rear.
The scene at Parque ANCAP stadium in Montevideo was caught by the match broadcast itself and quickly spread on social media.
On the field, Uruguay Montevideo beat Paysandú 1-0. Off it, the losers were the drivers involved in the accident.
#montevideo #paysand
2 months ago
Barcelona increase Rodri bid, Cristian Romero wants to join **** nal and Nottingham Forest are set to sign Ousmane Diomande.
Barcelona are in continued talks with Manchester City over signing Rodri and have made an increased bid of £51.4m for the Spain midfielder, 30. (Sport - in Spanish)
Cristian Romero would like to join **** nal, but Tottenham have no intention of allowing the 28-year-old Argentina centre-back to move to their north London rivals. (Sun)
Romero is also an option for Barcelona, who are set to let Uruguay centre-back Ronald Araujo, 27, join Liverpool on loan. (Mundo Deportivo - in Spanish)
Nottingham Forest are set to sign Ivory Coast centre-back Ousmane Diomande, 22, from Sporting for £34m. (Athletic - subscription required)
#Barcelona #arsenal
Barcelona are in continued talks with Manchester City over signing Rodri and have made an increased bid of £51.4m for the Spain midfielder, 30. (Sport - in Spanish)
Cristian Romero would like to join **** nal, but Tottenham have no intention of allowing the 28-year-old Argentina centre-back to move to their north London rivals. (Sun)
Romero is also an option for Barcelona, who are set to let Uruguay centre-back Ronald Araujo, 27, join Liverpool on loan. (Mundo Deportivo - in Spanish)
Nottingham Forest are set to sign Ivory Coast centre-back Ousmane Diomande, 22, from Sporting for £34m. (Athletic - subscription required)
#Barcelona #arsenal
2 months ago
The brass at Barcelona are considering a move for Athletic Club star Aymeric Laporte before the summer is out. This of course comes ahead of the imminent departure of Ronald Araújo from Catalunya's capital.
The situation at the heart of Hansi Flick's Blaugrana backline has taken a sudden, unexpected shift over the course of the last 24 hours.
After Premier League giants Liverpool touched base with their counterparts at the Camp Nou regarding a potential deal for the aforementioned Ronald Araújo, Deco and co. opened the door to a loan move.
The Uruguayan, as a result, is widely expected to spend the duration of the upcoming season plying his trade at Anfield.
Barcelona, all of a sudden, therefore look somewhat short on options in central defence. As things stand, Hansi Flick has Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, the oft-injured Andreas Christensen and academy graduate Álvaro Cortés at his disposal.
#Barcelona #ronald #club #aymeric
The situation at the heart of Hansi Flick's Blaugrana backline has taken a sudden, unexpected shift over the course of the last 24 hours.
After Premier League giants Liverpool touched base with their counterparts at the Camp Nou regarding a potential deal for the aforementioned Ronald Araújo, Deco and co. opened the door to a loan move.
The Uruguayan, as a result, is widely expected to spend the duration of the upcoming season plying his trade at Anfield.
Barcelona, all of a sudden, therefore look somewhat short on options in central defence. As things stand, Hansi Flick has Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, the oft-injured Andreas Christensen and academy graduate Álvaro Cortés at his disposal.
#Barcelona #ronald #club #aymeric
2 months ago
An insight into the financial details of the agreement reached between Spanish champions Barcelona and Premier League heavyweights Liverpool over Ronald Araújo has come to the fore online.
This of course comes as the defender prepares to take his talents to Merseyside for the season ahead.
Completely out of the blue, word was forthcoming on Friday evening that the Liverpool brass had found an accord with their Barcelona counterparts, over a surprise deal for Araújo.
After another challenging campaign on an individual level in 2025/26, the Uruguayan has made the call to depart Catalunya's capital on loan, through the summer of 2027.
At this point, Liverpool – on the lookout for a long-term replacement for Ibrahima Konaté – will have the option to make the signing a permanent one.
#spanish
This of course comes as the defender prepares to take his talents to Merseyside for the season ahead.
Completely out of the blue, word was forthcoming on Friday evening that the Liverpool brass had found an accord with their Barcelona counterparts, over a surprise deal for Araújo.
After another challenging campaign on an individual level in 2025/26, the Uruguayan has made the call to depart Catalunya's capital on loan, through the summer of 2027.
At this point, Liverpool – on the lookout for a long-term replacement for Ibrahima Konaté – will have the option to make the signing a permanent one.
#spanish
2 months ago
Liverpool have agreed a season-long loan deal to sign Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo as Andoni Iraola moves to address his shortage of defensive options.
The 27-year-old Uruguay international is set to provide cover at centre-back and right-back, with Liverpool facing a number of injury problems across their defence.
According to The Athletic, Araujo's versatility is particularly valuable to Liverpool, with Conor Bradley expected to miss the opening months of the season with a knee injury. Joe Gomez is also recovering from a muscular problem, while Giovanni Leoni remains sidelined following an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
Ibrahima Konate left Liverpool at the end of his contract to join Real Madrid, further reducing Iraola's options. Jeremy Jacquet, meanwhile, has yet to feature in pre-season after a serious shoulder injury and a subsequent minor issue.
The defensive shortage was evident during Liverpool's recent tour of the United States, with teenage defenders Ifeanyi Ndukwe and Mor Talla Ndiaye featuring heavily. Full-back Luke Chambers was also used in central defence, while Iraola acknowledged that his squad was "thin" in the position.
#season
The 27-year-old Uruguay international is set to provide cover at centre-back and right-back, with Liverpool facing a number of injury problems across their defence.
According to The Athletic, Araujo's versatility is particularly valuable to Liverpool, with Conor Bradley expected to miss the opening months of the season with a knee injury. Joe Gomez is also recovering from a muscular problem, while Giovanni Leoni remains sidelined following an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
Ibrahima Konate left Liverpool at the end of his contract to join Real Madrid, further reducing Iraola's options. Jeremy Jacquet, meanwhile, has yet to feature in pre-season after a serious shoulder injury and a subsequent minor issue.
The defensive shortage was evident during Liverpool's recent tour of the United States, with teenage defenders Ifeanyi Ndukwe and Mor Talla Ndiaye featuring heavily. Full-back Luke Chambers was also used in central defence, while Iraola acknowledged that his squad was "thin" in the position.
#season
2 months ago
The news of Ronald Araujo's loan move from FC Barcelona to Liverpool came out of the blue.
The story broke late on Friday night, and the Uruguayan defender will not travel with Barça's squad to the pre-season triangular tournament in Udine, as he prepares to complete his move to the Premier League.
As previously reported, the agreement between Barcelona and Liverpool includes an option to buy at the end of the loan spell if the English giants are satisfied with Araujo's performances.
The value of that clause had not initially been disclosed.
However, according to Mundo Deportivo Liverpool would have to pay €55 million to make the transfer permanent.
#premier
The story broke late on Friday night, and the Uruguayan defender will not travel with Barça's squad to the pre-season triangular tournament in Udine, as he prepares to complete his move to the Premier League.
As previously reported, the agreement between Barcelona and Liverpool includes an option to buy at the end of the loan spell if the English giants are satisfied with Araujo's performances.
The value of that clause had not initially been disclosed.
However, according to Mundo Deportivo Liverpool would have to pay €55 million to make the transfer permanent.
#premier
2 months ago
Liverpool are close to agreeing a loan deal for Barcelona's Ronald Araujo to give them much-needed reinforcements in defence.
The Merseyside club are looking to complete a loan with an option to buy the Uruguay international, with a medical scheduled for Sunday.
The 27-year-old former Barcelona captain is set to become Andoni Iraola's second signing at Anfield, after winger Victor Munoz.
Ronald Araujo looks set to boost Liverpool's defensive options (PA)
Araujo, primarily a central defender but who can also play right-back, will help give Iraola more strength in depth in both positions.
#uruguay #sunday #andoni
The Merseyside club are looking to complete a loan with an option to buy the Uruguay international, with a medical scheduled for Sunday.
The 27-year-old former Barcelona captain is set to become Andoni Iraola's second signing at Anfield, after winger Victor Munoz.
Ronald Araujo looks set to boost Liverpool's defensive options (PA)
Araujo, primarily a central defender but who can also play right-back, will help give Iraola more strength in depth in both positions.
#uruguay #sunday #andoni
2 months ago
Ronald Araujo's imminent loan move to Liverpool has reshaped Barcelona's transfer plans almost overnight.
The Uruguayan centre-back has reached a verbal agreement to join the Premier League side on loan for the upcoming season, with the deal also including a purchase option for the Reds.
It is an unexpected departure, and one that has prompted Deco and Barcelona's sporting department to reassess the market in search of a replacement for a position that, until now, had not been considered a priority.
With Araujo heading to Anfield, Cristian Romero has once again emerged as one of Barcelona's leading defensive targets, reports SPORT.
The Argentine international has been admired by the club for some time thanks to his aggressive defending, competitive mentality and ability to play on the front foot.
#loan #premier #deco
The Uruguayan centre-back has reached a verbal agreement to join the Premier League side on loan for the upcoming season, with the deal also including a purchase option for the Reds.
It is an unexpected departure, and one that has prompted Deco and Barcelona's sporting department to reassess the market in search of a replacement for a position that, until now, had not been considered a priority.
With Araujo heading to Anfield, Cristian Romero has once again emerged as one of Barcelona's leading defensive targets, reports SPORT.
The Argentine international has been admired by the club for some time thanks to his aggressive defending, competitive mentality and ability to play on the front foot.
#loan #premier #deco
2 months ago
Liverpool are set to finalise the signing of Ronald Araujo on loan from Barcelona.
Andoni Iraola's side havereached an agreement to sign the Barcelona captain on a season-long loan deal, with a non-mandatory option to make the move permanent for an undisclosed fee.
Liverpool have targeted Araujo to add depth to their centre-back options, following the loss of Ibrahima Konate to Real Madrid on a free transfer.
Araujo will add an experienced option alongside Virgil van Dijk, helping to ease the adaption of summer signing Jeremy Jacquet and 19-year-old Giovanni Leoni, who is returning from an ACL lay-off.
Araujo will hope to rebuild his career at Liverpool after a frustrating couple of seasons in Catalonia. The Uruguay international has struggled for form and fitness in recent campaigns and took a break from football to focus on his mental health last season, amid fierce criticism.
#ibrahima
Andoni Iraola's side havereached an agreement to sign the Barcelona captain on a season-long loan deal, with a non-mandatory option to make the move permanent for an undisclosed fee.
Liverpool have targeted Araujo to add depth to their centre-back options, following the loss of Ibrahima Konate to Real Madrid on a free transfer.
Araujo will add an experienced option alongside Virgil van Dijk, helping to ease the adaption of summer signing Jeremy Jacquet and 19-year-old Giovanni Leoni, who is returning from an ACL lay-off.
Araujo will hope to rebuild his career at Liverpool after a frustrating couple of seasons in Catalonia. The Uruguay international has struggled for form and fitness in recent campaigns and took a break from football to focus on his mental health last season, amid fierce criticism.
#ibrahima
2 months ago
Former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan has agreed to become Uruguay head coach on an interim basis.
Forlan succeeds Marcelo Bielsa, who stepped down after Uruguay failed to qualify from the group stage at the World Cup.
The 47-year-old is set to be in charge for the national team's friendlies this autumn before a permanent manager is appointed at the end of this year or the start of 2027.
Forlan has also been named coach for Uruguay's Under-20 team, alongside the senior first team.
Ex-Leeds United boss Bielsa became Uruguay boss in May 2023 but they won 15 of his 39 games in charge and, after their disappointing early exit from the World Cup, the 70-year-old Argentine said his tenure "left nothing behind".
#charge #team #boss
Forlan succeeds Marcelo Bielsa, who stepped down after Uruguay failed to qualify from the group stage at the World Cup.
The 47-year-old is set to be in charge for the national team's friendlies this autumn before a permanent manager is appointed at the end of this year or the start of 2027.
Forlan has also been named coach for Uruguay's Under-20 team, alongside the senior first team.
Ex-Leeds United boss Bielsa became Uruguay boss in May 2023 but they won 15 of his 39 games in charge and, after their disappointing early exit from the World Cup, the 70-year-old Argentine said his tenure "left nothing behind".
#charge #team #boss
2 months ago
Uruguayan forward Lucho Rodríguez arrived in Belo Horizonte in the early hours of Tuesday (4) to become Cruzeiro's new signing.
Loaned free of charge by Neom, from Saudi Arabia, he is undergoing medical exams this morning before officially signing a one-season loan deal.
Upon his arrival, the player spoke to the press about his physical condition. Lucho explained that he took part in an intense preseason with the Saudi club and, although he still needs match fitness, he hopes to be available to the coaching staff after the first few days of training.
The Uruguayan's debut, however, has been ruled out for this Wednesday (5), in the match against Chapecoense in the Copa do Brasil round of 16, since the registration deadline for this stage has already passed.
The first opportunity for the forward to wear the Cruzeiro shirt could come next Sunday (9), at 11 a.m., against Mirassol at Mineirão, in the 22nd round of the Brasileirão. To be legally eligible to play, Lucho's name must appear in the CBF's BID by the end of this Friday (7).
#belo
Loaned free of charge by Neom, from Saudi Arabia, he is undergoing medical exams this morning before officially signing a one-season loan deal.
Upon his arrival, the player spoke to the press about his physical condition. Lucho explained that he took part in an intense preseason with the Saudi club and, although he still needs match fitness, he hopes to be available to the coaching staff after the first few days of training.
The Uruguayan's debut, however, has been ruled out for this Wednesday (5), in the match against Chapecoense in the Copa do Brasil round of 16, since the registration deadline for this stage has already passed.
The first opportunity for the forward to wear the Cruzeiro shirt could come next Sunday (9), at 11 a.m., against Mirassol at Mineirão, in the 22nd round of the Brasileirão. To be legally eligible to play, Lucho's name must appear in the CBF's BID by the end of this Friday (7).
#belo
2 months ago
Lionel Messi returned to Major League Soccer action after World Cup duty on Saturday, coming on in the second half as his Inter Miami side drew 2-2 with Columbus Crew.
Two weeks after Argentina's loss to Spain in the World Cup final, Messi was back on the pitch, entering in the 53rd minute to the delight of fans at Miami's Nu Stadium.
But Messi could not mark his return with a goal, twice shooting wide.
Uruguayan Luis Suarez scored his seventh goal in his last four games to put Miami 1-0 up in the 16th minute.
Miami's former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro scored an own goal in the 34th minute which drew Columbus level at 1-1.
#goal #Miami
Two weeks after Argentina's loss to Spain in the World Cup final, Messi was back on the pitch, entering in the 53rd minute to the delight of fans at Miami's Nu Stadium.
But Messi could not mark his return with a goal, twice shooting wide.
Uruguayan Luis Suarez scored his seventh goal in his last four games to put Miami 1-0 up in the 16th minute.
Miami's former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro scored an own goal in the 34th minute which drew Columbus level at 1-1.
#goal #Miami
