8 days ago
Harvey Elliott went to Valencia in search of calm, minutes and the sort of fresh start that can rescue a career from drift. Instead, as Liverpool.com reports, he has arrived in the middle of turbulence, and for a young footballer trying to rebuild belief, that can be a cruel place to begin again.
The move to Spain felt, on the surface, like a sensible answer to a difficult year. Elliott had returned from an underwhelming loan at Aston Villa, a spell that promised more than it delivered, and came back to Liverpool needing clarity. Under Andoni Iraola, opportunities in pre-season were there in glimpses, but the direction of travel soon became obvious. He was not an obvious fit and early omissions from matchday squads told their own story.
So Valencia offered possibility. A big club, a demanding crowd, a league that can reward intelligence and craft, it seemed a place where Elliott might reconnect with the qualities that once made him such an exciting young midfielder. Yet football has a habit of mocking tidy plans.
IMAGO | Anfield Index
Valencia are bottom of La Liga after five matches, with only one draw to show for them. Supporters are restless, results are poor and the mood has soured quickly. Elliott, still working his way towards full sharpness, has managed only two substitute appearances. That was already a delicate situation. It has now become even more unstable.
#valencia #place #obvious
The move to Spain felt, on the surface, like a sensible answer to a difficult year. Elliott had returned from an underwhelming loan at Aston Villa, a spell that promised more than it delivered, and came back to Liverpool needing clarity. Under Andoni Iraola, opportunities in pre-season were there in glimpses, but the direction of travel soon became obvious. He was not an obvious fit and early omissions from matchday squads told their own story.
So Valencia offered possibility. A big club, a demanding crowd, a league that can reward intelligence and craft, it seemed a place where Elliott might reconnect with the qualities that once made him such an exciting young midfielder. Yet football has a habit of mocking tidy plans.
IMAGO | Anfield Index
Valencia are bottom of La Liga after five matches, with only one draw to show for them. Supporters are restless, results are poor and the mood has soured quickly. Elliott, still working his way towards full sharpness, has managed only two substitute appearances. That was already a delicate situation. It has now become even more unstable.
#valencia #place #obvious
11 days ago
Valencia CF coach Carlos Corberán spoke at a press conference after the defeat against Sevilla FC to **** s the club's difficult sporting situation. The manager took responsibility and stressed the urgency of changing the team's momentum in the next match in Vitoria.
The Valencia coach explained part of the poor results by the constant loss of players to injury since preseason. Among those sidelined, he confirmed César's hamstring problem, an issue that seriously limits the squad's resources.
Despite the pressure, Corberán said he still has the same energy and enthusiasm as on day one to turn the situation around. He defended his players' commitment on the pitch and accepted the criticism, promising immediate answers for the fans on the field.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.
#coach #carlos #sevilla
The Valencia coach explained part of the poor results by the constant loss of players to injury since preseason. Among those sidelined, he confirmed César's hamstring problem, an issue that seriously limits the squad's resources.
Despite the pressure, Corberán said he still has the same energy and enthusiasm as on day one to turn the situation around. He defended his players' commitment on the pitch and accepted the criticism, promising immediate answers for the fans on the field.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.
#coach #carlos #sevilla
14 days ago
Barcelona look to continue their perfect start to the season and kick off a new European journey with a win as they welcome Dutch giants Feyenoord to Camp Nou for their Champions League league phase debut.
Here's how we think Hansi Flick will line up his troops for Wednesday's battle:
Barça cruised to a comfortable win against Valencia with Hansi Flick able to rest a few starters while the team didn't have to spend too much energy in the second half, so we are expecting a strong team once again for the European opener.
Eric Garcia broke his nose on Sunday and is suspended for this one due to his red card in Barça's elimination game against Atlético Madrid last season, so Jules Kounde is guaranteed to start at right-back. Pau Cubarsí will start at center-back and we think Andreas Christensen, who has been healthy and performed well to start the season, will be picked as his partner ahead of Gerard Martín.
Xavi Espart has played every second of football so far and João Cancelo didn't feature at all against Valencia, so we think the Portuguese will make his first start of the season at left-back to give Espart a chance to rest.
#think
Here's how we think Hansi Flick will line up his troops for Wednesday's battle:
Barça cruised to a comfortable win against Valencia with Hansi Flick able to rest a few starters while the team didn't have to spend too much energy in the second half, so we are expecting a strong team once again for the European opener.
Eric Garcia broke his nose on Sunday and is suspended for this one due to his red card in Barça's elimination game against Atlético Madrid last season, so Jules Kounde is guaranteed to start at right-back. Pau Cubarsí will start at center-back and we think Andreas Christensen, who has been healthy and performed well to start the season, will be picked as his partner ahead of Gerard Martín.
Xavi Espart has played every second of football so far and João Cancelo didn't feature at all against Valencia, so we think the Portuguese will make his first start of the season at left-back to give Espart a chance to rest.
#think
14 days ago
Barcelona have received a timely boost with Gavi back in contention for upcoming matches against Feyenoord and Levante after recovering from the knee problem that briefly interrupted his start to the season.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the 22-year-old midfielder is now expected to feature in Hansi Flick's rotation plans, beginning with Wednesday's meeting with Feyenoord.
Gavi returned to the squad at the weekend after missing Barcelona's home victories over Athletic Club and Rayo Vallecano because of discomfort.
He was named among the substitutes for Sunday's 5-0 win at Valencia but did not enter the game. His presence on the bench was nevertheless another indication that the injury is behind him.
Gavi's injury initially raised concerns after Barcelona's opening-day victory at Elche.
#gavi #injury #levante
According to Mundo Deportivo, the 22-year-old midfielder is now expected to feature in Hansi Flick's rotation plans, beginning with Wednesday's meeting with Feyenoord.
Gavi returned to the squad at the weekend after missing Barcelona's home victories over Athletic Club and Rayo Vallecano because of discomfort.
He was named among the substitutes for Sunday's 5-0 win at Valencia but did not enter the game. His presence on the bench was nevertheless another indication that the injury is behind him.
Gavi's injury initially raised concerns after Barcelona's opening-day victory at Elche.
#gavi #injury #levante
16 days ago
Barcelona star Pedri has dismissed suggestions that he's not compatible with Rodri after Sunday's 5-0 win over Valencia.
The two Spain stars started the game at Mestalla and were part of a brilliant Barcelona performance that delivered a fourth straight La Liga win.
Pedri was asked for his thoughts afterwards and made it clear he's enjoying playing with Rodri at Barca.
"It has been said that we don't work together, but it's very comfortable playing with Rodri," he told Movistar.
"He hardly ever loses the ball and that helps a lot in defence. We're going to have a good understanding that will get even better with more and more games."
#liga
The two Spain stars started the game at Mestalla and were part of a brilliant Barcelona performance that delivered a fourth straight La Liga win.
Pedri was asked for his thoughts afterwards and made it clear he's enjoying playing with Rodri at Barca.
"It has been said that we don't work together, but it's very comfortable playing with Rodri," he told Movistar.
"He hardly ever loses the ball and that helps a lot in defence. We're going to have a good understanding that will get even better with more and more games."
#liga
16 days ago
MADRID (AP) — Barcelona stayed perfect in the Spanish league by cruising to a 5-0 win at Valencia on Sunday, with Lamine Yamal scoring another brace for the Catalan club.
Arsenal rallied to beat Chelsea 2-1 in the Premier League, while Manchester United was stunned in added time to draw 2-2 at Everton.
Augsburg moved to the top of the Bundesliga by winning 4-1 at Eintracht Frankfurt, and American midfielder Giovanni Reyna scored in Strasbourg's 6-2 rout of Troyes in France.
Barcelona won its fourth game in a row at the start of the Spanish league and is the only team with a perfect record after four rounds.
Yamal scored a goal in each half following his first two goals of the season in the win against Rayo Vallecano in the previous round.
#perfect #madrid
Arsenal rallied to beat Chelsea 2-1 in the Premier League, while Manchester United was stunned in added time to draw 2-2 at Everton.
Augsburg moved to the top of the Bundesliga by winning 4-1 at Eintracht Frankfurt, and American midfielder Giovanni Reyna scored in Strasbourg's 6-2 rout of Troyes in France.
Barcelona won its fourth game in a row at the start of the Spanish league and is the only team with a perfect record after four rounds.
Yamal scored a goal in each half following his first two goals of the season in the win against Rayo Vallecano in the previous round.
#perfect #madrid
16 days ago
Lamine Yamal struck twice for Barcelona as they demolished Valencia 5-0 on Sunday to maintain their 100 percent start in La Liga.
The reigning champions moved three points clear at the top of La Liga, after Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid lost 1-0 at Real Betis on Friday.
Fermin Lopez, Raphinha and Pedri were also on target for Hansi Flick's swaggering visitors on a hot afternoon on Spain's east coast.
Yamal did not take part in the team training session on Saturday after a knock but showed no signs of it during a dazzling display against Carlos Corberan's Los Che.
Barcelona, the only team in the top flight to win their first four games, took control from the start to the upset of Valencia's fans at a persistently bad-tempered Mestalla stadium.
#real #start #lamine #jose
The reigning champions moved three points clear at the top of La Liga, after Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid lost 1-0 at Real Betis on Friday.
Fermin Lopez, Raphinha and Pedri were also on target for Hansi Flick's swaggering visitors on a hot afternoon on Spain's east coast.
Yamal did not take part in the team training session on Saturday after a knock but showed no signs of it during a dazzling display against Carlos Corberan's Los Che.
Barcelona, the only team in the top flight to win their first four games, took control from the start to the upset of Valencia's fans at a persistently bad-tempered Mestalla stadium.
#real #start #lamine #jose
16 days ago
Barcelona faced off against Valencia at the Mestalla Stadium earlier today as they hoped to secure all three points on the road in La Liga. The Catalan club made a bright start to the game and got their noses ahead in the sixth-minute thanks to Lamine Yamal's effort. Fermin Lopez doubled his team's advantage in the 22nd minute as Barcelona went into the half-time break 2-0 up on the scoreline.
Raphinha put daylight between the two sides in the 50th minute before Pedri made it 4-0 for Hansi Flick's team in the 79th minute. Yamal got himself another goal just five minutes later as the Catalan giants earned a dominant 5-0 win away from home.
Let's take a look at how each Barcelona player fared during the clash against Valencia.
He made a couple of solid saves at the back and did enough to secure the clean sheet.
RB: Eric Garcia – 6.5/10
#stadium
Raphinha put daylight between the two sides in the 50th minute before Pedri made it 4-0 for Hansi Flick's team in the 79th minute. Yamal got himself another goal just five minutes later as the Catalan giants earned a dominant 5-0 win away from home.
Let's take a look at how each Barcelona player fared during the clash against Valencia.
He made a couple of solid saves at the back and did enough to secure the clean sheet.
RB: Eric Garcia – 6.5/10
#stadium
16 days ago
A member of the attacking ranks at La Liga giants Barcelona on Sunday took over sole ownership of the **** le of the top scorer in Europe's top-5 leagues this season.
This comes owing to developments in the Blaugrana's meeting with Valencia.
Hansi Flick's troops are fresh off another absolutely dominant victory this evening, keeping alive a flawless start to the new campaign with a five-goal romp at Mestalla.
Lamine Yamal was on target to the tune of a brace, whilst Fermín López also shone bright yet again with a trio of direct goal contributions.
It was captain and new centre-forward Raphinha, though, whose strike proved the significant one when it comes to the early race for the European Golden Boot.
#liga #sunday #hansi #lamine
This comes owing to developments in the Blaugrana's meeting with Valencia.
Hansi Flick's troops are fresh off another absolutely dominant victory this evening, keeping alive a flawless start to the new campaign with a five-goal romp at Mestalla.
Lamine Yamal was on target to the tune of a brace, whilst Fermín López also shone bright yet again with a trio of direct goal contributions.
It was captain and new centre-forward Raphinha, though, whose strike proved the significant one when it comes to the early race for the European Golden Boot.
#liga #sunday #hansi #lamine
16 days ago
Barcelona remain perfect to start the season and have won their fourth straight La Liga game to open up a three-point lead at the top of the table thanks to a dominant 5-0 win over Valencia at Mestalla on Sunday afternoon. The Blaugrana put on another attacking show and created over a dozen giant chances, and Lamine Yamal (twice), Raphinha, Fermín López and Pedri found the net to give the leaders three more points in spectacular fashion.
Barça played a fantastic opening period, establishing their dominance from the opening whistle and creating huge chances early and often against Valencia's low block.
Lamine Yamal scored a brilliant first goal and had a second disallowed for a very narrow offside, and came very close three other times. Fermín López also found the net with a powerful finish in the box, and almost scored a glorious solo goal but was denied by the keeper and the post.
The Catalans had a couple of scares at the back but Joan Garcia was up to the task with a couple of big saves. Barça were in control for the entire half, however, and dominated midfield thanks to Rodri, who was simply fantastic in the opening 45 minutes of his first start.
There was only one piece of bad news when a freak accident caused Eric Garcia to suffer a broken nose in a collision with Rodri in the box, but Barça were fully in control and had a deserved two-goal lead at the break.
#opening #lamine #yamal #start
Barça played a fantastic opening period, establishing their dominance from the opening whistle and creating huge chances early and often against Valencia's low block.
Lamine Yamal scored a brilliant first goal and had a second disallowed for a very narrow offside, and came very close three other times. Fermín López also found the net with a powerful finish in the box, and almost scored a glorious solo goal but was denied by the keeper and the post.
The Catalans had a couple of scares at the back but Joan Garcia was up to the task with a couple of big saves. Barça were in control for the entire half, however, and dominated midfield thanks to Rodri, who was simply fantastic in the opening 45 minutes of his first start.
There was only one piece of bad news when a freak accident caused Eric Garcia to suffer a broken nose in a collision with Rodri in the box, but Barça were fully in control and had a deserved two-goal lead at the break.
#opening #lamine #yamal #start
16 days ago
An insight into the meaning behind the new celebration made use of by Barcelona star Lamine Yamal on Sunday has come to the fore online.
This comes amid the understanding that the pose was a tribute to younger brother, Keyne.
Barcelona were of course back in action a short time ago, making the trip to Mestalla with sights on a fourth successive victory to open the defence of their La Liga ******* le.
When all was said and done, another three points is precisely what the Blaugrana secured, courtesy of a dominant 5-0 triumph.
The aforementioned Lamine, despite fitness concerns in the days leading up to the clash, was in from the off in Valencia, and set the scoring in motion courtesy of a classy finish.
#Barcelona #courtesy
This comes amid the understanding that the pose was a tribute to younger brother, Keyne.
Barcelona were of course back in action a short time ago, making the trip to Mestalla with sights on a fourth successive victory to open the defence of their La Liga ******* le.
When all was said and done, another three points is precisely what the Blaugrana secured, courtesy of a dominant 5-0 triumph.
The aforementioned Lamine, despite fitness concerns in the days leading up to the clash, was in from the off in Valencia, and set the scoring in motion courtesy of a classy finish.
#Barcelona #courtesy
16 days ago
La Liga giants Barcelona have on Sunday been dealt a potential blow on the personnel front. This comes owing to developments in the Blaugrana's latest outing on the domestic front.
Hansi Flick's troops are currently locked in action at Mestalla, in a league meeting with Valencia. Barca headed into proceedings with sights on a fourth win from four to open the campaign, aware that as much would see them open an early advantage over arch rivals Real Madrid atop the table.
And as things stand, this is precisely what the evening's visitors find themselves headed towards. Owing to goals on the part of Lamine Yamal and Fermín López, Barcelona are in possession of a deserved 2-0 advantage.
As alluded to above, though, across an otherwise positive outing to date for the reigning Spanish champions, one source of concern was forthcoming on the personnel front.
Following a bizarre set-piece sequence which saw Rodri collide head-first with teammate Eric García, the latter was left grounded and bleeding from his nose.
#Barcelona #personnel #outing #sunday
Hansi Flick's troops are currently locked in action at Mestalla, in a league meeting with Valencia. Barca headed into proceedings with sights on a fourth win from four to open the campaign, aware that as much would see them open an early advantage over arch rivals Real Madrid atop the table.
And as things stand, this is precisely what the evening's visitors find themselves headed towards. Owing to goals on the part of Lamine Yamal and Fermín López, Barcelona are in possession of a deserved 2-0 advantage.
As alluded to above, though, across an otherwise positive outing to date for the reigning Spanish champions, one source of concern was forthcoming on the personnel front.
Following a bizarre set-piece sequence which saw Rodri collide head-first with teammate Eric García, the latter was left grounded and bleeding from his nose.
#Barcelona #personnel #outing #sunday
16 days ago
Barcelona's game against Valencia is set to kick off at Mestalla, and Hansi Flick has deployed one of the team's strongest lineups for the night.
With the UEFA Champions League coming up midweek, it is clear that the Barcelona manager wishes to test out his Gala XI in an official game, and the clash against Valencia is that big occasion.
Los Che, meanwhile, have also put up a formidable lineup although they are the underdogs by some distance at their own stadium.
Given the multiple upsets this week in La Liga including Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid losing, however, they will believe they can pull off an upset.
Valencia manager Carlos Corberan faced the media ahead of kickoff and spoke on the game that awaits his side and what he expects from Barcelona on the night.
#Barcelona #mestalla #hansi #uefa
With the UEFA Champions League coming up midweek, it is clear that the Barcelona manager wishes to test out his Gala XI in an official game, and the clash against Valencia is that big occasion.
Los Che, meanwhile, have also put up a formidable lineup although they are the underdogs by some distance at their own stadium.
Given the multiple upsets this week in La Liga including Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid losing, however, they will believe they can pull off an upset.
Valencia manager Carlos Corberan faced the media ahead of kickoff and spoke on the game that awaits his side and what he expects from Barcelona on the night.
#Barcelona #mestalla #hansi #uefa
16 days ago
BEEVILLE, Texas, Sept 4 (Reuters) - The makeup and toys on Valencia Macias' table are items people buy on impulse at discount stores. But on a sweltering summer day in South Texas, she is trying to sell them to turn them into gas money, grocery money, student loan money: any kind of money.
With three young children, a job as a medical ***** istant and nursing classes at night, the 26-year-old has little time for politics. But when Texas officials withdrew funding for the only after-school program available in her rural town of George West, politics became impossible to ignore.
Then, a TikTok video appeared: A Mexican American woman on the screen, Gina Hinojosa, talked about the high cost of living and badly needed investments in Texas public education. Macias stopped scrolling.
"With everything just getting so expensive and the gas and everything, it's really hard to just make do," Macias said. Seeing a mother and a woman who looks like her, Macias made up her mind: "100%, she has my vote."
Hinojosa, a Democratic state representative, is trying to end an electoral drought that has defined Texas politics for a generation: no Democrat has won statewide office in Texas since 1994.
#texas #woman
With three young children, a job as a medical ***** istant and nursing classes at night, the 26-year-old has little time for politics. But when Texas officials withdrew funding for the only after-school program available in her rural town of George West, politics became impossible to ignore.
Then, a TikTok video appeared: A Mexican American woman on the screen, Gina Hinojosa, talked about the high cost of living and badly needed investments in Texas public education. Macias stopped scrolling.
"With everything just getting so expensive and the gas and everything, it's really hard to just make do," Macias said. Seeing a mother and a woman who looks like her, Macias made up her mind: "100%, she has my vote."
Hinojosa, a Democratic state representative, is trying to end an electoral drought that has defined Texas politics for a generation: no Democrat has won statewide office in Texas since 1994.
#texas #woman
16 days ago
Barcelona will meet Valencia in their next La Liga encounter on Sunday as they look to continue their winning run in the new season.
Date: Sunday, 6th September.
Kick-off: 3:15pm BST.
Venue: Estadio de Mestalla
Valencia CF faces a severe squad selection crisis ahead of their home clash at Mestalla against league leaders Barcelona. Manager Carlos Corberán is dealing with a heavily depleted roster, with six key first-team players officially ruled out due to injury.
#venue
Date: Sunday, 6th September.
Kick-off: 3:15pm BST.
Venue: Estadio de Mestalla
Valencia CF faces a severe squad selection crisis ahead of their home clash at Mestalla against league leaders Barcelona. Manager Carlos Corberán is dealing with a heavily depleted roster, with six key first-team players officially ruled out due to injury.
#venue
17 days ago
The next Barcelona match is upon us! The Blaugrana travel to Mestalla for a La Liga game against Valencia, and Hansi Flick has called up the following 24 players for Sunday's clash:
Goalkeepers: 1. Joan Garcia, 13. Wojciech Szczesny, 25. Dominik Livakovic
Defenders: 2. João Cancelo, 3. Alejandro Balde, 5. Pau Cubarsí, 12. Xavi Espart, 15. Andreas Christensen, 18. Gerard Martín, 23. Jules Kounde, 24. Eric Garcia
Midfielders: 4. Brian Fariñas, 6. Gavi, 7. Fermín López, 8. Pedri, 16. Rodri, 20. Dani Olmo, 22. Marc Bernal
Forwards: 9. Gabriel Jesus, 10. Lamine Yamal, 11. Raphinha, 14. Karim Adeyemi, 17. Anthony Gordon, 29. Hamza Abdelkarim
#garcia #mestalla #valencia
Goalkeepers: 1. Joan Garcia, 13. Wojciech Szczesny, 25. Dominik Livakovic
Defenders: 2. João Cancelo, 3. Alejandro Balde, 5. Pau Cubarsí, 12. Xavi Espart, 15. Andreas Christensen, 18. Gerard Martín, 23. Jules Kounde, 24. Eric Garcia
Midfielders: 4. Brian Fariñas, 6. Gavi, 7. Fermín López, 8. Pedri, 16. Rodri, 20. Dani Olmo, 22. Marc Bernal
Forwards: 9. Gabriel Jesus, 10. Lamine Yamal, 11. Raphinha, 14. Karim Adeyemi, 17. Anthony Gordon, 29. Hamza Abdelkarim
#garcia #mestalla #valencia
18 days ago
Barcelona's next visit to Mestalla is set to carry a historic significance. If the stadium is eventually replaced or loses its role as Valencia's home for competitive football, owing to redevelopment, this meeting could be the final chapter of one of Spanish football's longest-running fixtures at the historic ground.
Few venues have provided such an evenly balanced setting for Barcelona.
Simply put, the two clubs have met at Mestalla 115 times across six competitions, with Barça narrowly ahead on 43 victories to Valencia's 42. The remaining 30 encounters ended level.
That near-perfect balance makes Mestalla one of the rare grounds where Barcelona have never enjoyed overwhelming historical dominance.
Recent history, though, has shifted in their direction.
#historic #recent #carry #significance
Few venues have provided such an evenly balanced setting for Barcelona.
Simply put, the two clubs have met at Mestalla 115 times across six competitions, with Barça narrowly ahead on 43 victories to Valencia's 42. The remaining 30 encounters ended level.
That near-perfect balance makes Mestalla one of the rare grounds where Barcelona have never enjoyed overwhelming historical dominance.
Recent history, though, has shifted in their direction.
#historic #recent #carry #significance
19 days ago
The monster tackle, the unstoppable dash, the curler into the corner: at FC Bayern there are and have been many players with unique abilities, who give us unforgettable moments. Such as Samuel Kuffour, who particularly shone against international stars. The Ghanaian defender made 277 competitive appearances for the German record champions from 1993 to 2005 and won 17 trophies with the club. Today, 3 September, he celebrates his 50th birthday – we wish him all the best.
Effenberg's strength of nerve to make it 1-1, Kahn's epic saves in the penalty shootout – those scenes from our Champions League triumph against Valencia will be remembered forever by many fans. Samuel Kuffour's contribution to the fourth Champions League ***** le might be less prominent. The Ghanaian centre-back didn't provide an iconic moment at the San Siro on 23 May 2001, but his whole performance over the 120 minutes in the Bayern back three is legendary. Like in all the previous knockout matches, he's on the pitch the whole time and intercepts one attack after the other. He closes the opponents down, throws himself into tackles and aerial duels and cuts out countless ***** . Having nullified Manchester United's Dwight Yorke and Andy Cole in the quarter-finals, and Raúl and Guti of Real Madrid in the semis, now it's John Carew's turn. The burly, 1.96-metre number nine iss barely in the game in the final. For someone of his relatively modest height of 1.78 metres, "Sammy" looks shoulders above. How does he manage to hold his own so well against the stars of his day? What characterises his defending?
Kuffour never shirks a tackle. He seeks them out, defends proactively on the front foot and puts his body on the line in a way that's rarely been seen in FCB history. Even in training, he was no different. "I hated training against him," reveals Giovane Élber, who played with him at Bayern from 1997 to 2003. Of course, this style of play brings with it a certain risk – he holds the record for the most sending-offs in an FCB shirt (eight). But fans and bosses are happy to forgive him for that. "When someone clatters into players like Sammy, then he can also make mistakes," says Uli Hoeneß. Especially since he always manages to focus in the big games.
A key component of Kuffour's game is his impressive athleticism. He has tremendous acceleration and agility, which allow him to hold his own even against technically superior players. Added to this is his exceptional jumping ability, thanks to which he easily holds his own in the air against opponents like Carew. Unsurprisingly, this also allows him to pose a constant goalscoring threat in attack, especially at set pieces. Six of his ten goals for Bayern were scored with his head. However, this does not apply to his most important goal – the winning goal in the Intercontinental Cup final against Boca Juniors in the 109th minute of extra time in November 2001. He scores that one with his right foot amid a scramble in the penalty area.
Effenberg's strength of nerve to make it 1-1, Kahn's epic saves in the penalty shootout – those scenes from our Champions League triumph against Valencia will be remembered forever by many fans. Samuel Kuffour's contribution to the fourth Champions League ***** le might be less prominent. The Ghanaian centre-back didn't provide an iconic moment at the San Siro on 23 May 2001, but his whole performance over the 120 minutes in the Bayern back three is legendary. Like in all the previous knockout matches, he's on the pitch the whole time and intercepts one attack after the other. He closes the opponents down, throws himself into tackles and aerial duels and cuts out countless ***** . Having nullified Manchester United's Dwight Yorke and Andy Cole in the quarter-finals, and Raúl and Guti of Real Madrid in the semis, now it's John Carew's turn. The burly, 1.96-metre number nine iss barely in the game in the final. For someone of his relatively modest height of 1.78 metres, "Sammy" looks shoulders above. How does he manage to hold his own so well against the stars of his day? What characterises his defending?
Kuffour never shirks a tackle. He seeks them out, defends proactively on the front foot and puts his body on the line in a way that's rarely been seen in FCB history. Even in training, he was no different. "I hated training against him," reveals Giovane Élber, who played with him at Bayern from 1997 to 2003. Of course, this style of play brings with it a certain risk – he holds the record for the most sending-offs in an FCB shirt (eight). But fans and bosses are happy to forgive him for that. "When someone clatters into players like Sammy, then he can also make mistakes," says Uli Hoeneß. Especially since he always manages to focus in the big games.
A key component of Kuffour's game is his impressive athleticism. He has tremendous acceleration and agility, which allow him to hold his own even against technically superior players. Added to this is his exceptional jumping ability, thanks to which he easily holds his own in the air against opponents like Carew. Unsurprisingly, this also allows him to pose a constant goalscoring threat in attack, especially at set pieces. Six of his ten goals for Bayern were scored with his head. However, this does not apply to his most important goal – the winning goal in the Intercontinental Cup final against Boca Juniors in the 109th minute of extra time in November 2001. He scores that one with his right foot amid a scramble in the penalty area.
20 days ago
After being a matter of complete silence throughout the summer transfer window, the future of Joan Martinez burst onto the scene on deadline day as it came to light that the player could leave the club.
Out of the blue, word broke out that Valencia were making a sudden push to incorporate the talented Real Madrid defender into their team in what was a rather shocking development.
The sudden news threw the player's future and the club's faith in him into doubt, for many believed it could not be a coincidence that Martinez's name suddenly grew linked to a transfer on deadline day.
Now, as confirmed by Alvaro Esteban in a recent update, Real Madrid remain completely unperturbed by the sudden noise regarding Martinez's future.
Valencia wanted to sign Joan Martinez on deadline day. (Photo by Christian Bruna/Getty Images)
#real
Out of the blue, word broke out that Valencia were making a sudden push to incorporate the talented Real Madrid defender into their team in what was a rather shocking development.
The sudden news threw the player's future and the club's faith in him into doubt, for many believed it could not be a coincidence that Martinez's name suddenly grew linked to a transfer on deadline day.
Now, as confirmed by Alvaro Esteban in a recent update, Real Madrid remain completely unperturbed by the sudden noise regarding Martinez's future.
Valencia wanted to sign Joan Martinez on deadline day. (Photo by Christian Bruna/Getty Images)
#real
21 days ago
Harvey Elliott has left Liverpool on loan for a second successive season after signing for Valencia.
The England Under-21 international, who spent last year at Aston Villa, has joined the LaLiga club.
Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott, who has joined Spanish side Valencia on a season-long loan deal (PA)
Valencia will not pay a loan fee for Elliott, who was omitted from Liverpool's matchday squad for the first two games of the season as manager Andoni Iraola preferred to pick other players.
Iraola has since added another winger, in the £106m signing of Bradley Barcola, further reducing Elliott's chances of first-team football at the club he supports.
#signing
The England Under-21 international, who spent last year at Aston Villa, has joined the LaLiga club.
Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott, who has joined Spanish side Valencia on a season-long loan deal (PA)
Valencia will not pay a loan fee for Elliott, who was omitted from Liverpool's matchday squad for the first two games of the season as manager Andoni Iraola preferred to pick other players.
Iraola has since added another winger, in the £106m signing of Bradley Barcola, further reducing Elliott's chances of first-team football at the club he supports.
#signing
21 days ago
Burnley have signed Leeds United forward Largie Ramazani on loan until the end of the season with an obligation to make the move permanent in the summer.
The 25-year-old Belgian joined the Whites from Spanish side Almeria in August 2024 and scored six goals in 29 league appearances as they won the Championship ***** le.
He spent last season on loan with La Liga side Valencia.
"I have experience from playing in this league and creating that winning environment, so I'm hoping I can bring something to the team on and off the pitch," he told the club website.
The Clarets, who host Middlesbrough on Wednesday, have taken just one point from their opening three Championship games after being relegated last season.
#championship #last #burnley #leeds
The 25-year-old Belgian joined the Whites from Spanish side Almeria in August 2024 and scored six goals in 29 league appearances as they won the Championship ***** le.
He spent last season on loan with La Liga side Valencia.
"I have experience from playing in this league and creating that winning environment, so I'm hoping I can bring something to the team on and off the pitch," he told the club website.
The Clarets, who host Middlesbrough on Wednesday, have taken just one point from their opening three Championship games after being relegated last season.
#championship #last #burnley #leeds
23 days ago
Nottingham Forest have enquired about the possibility of signing Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Oliver Glasner wants to add a new first-choice goalkeeper to his squad before the deadline, and Forest have had an offer turned down for former loanee Dean Henderson of Crystal Palace.
According to journalistMatteo Moretto, Forest have contacted Liverpool to discuss Mamardashvili's availability. The Georgia international joined Liverpool from Valencia for an initial fee of £25m last summer and made 10 Premier League appearances last season.
The 25-year-old is understood to feel frustrated about his role heading into the current campaign, with Alisson Becker remaining at Anfield as number one goalkeeper, despite speculation over a potential move to Juventus.
Liverpool also have issues around registration rules. Clubs can register a maximum of 17 players not classed as a 'homegrown player', with the Reds reaching that limit afterthe arrival of Ronald Araujo from Barcelona.
#forest #dean
Oliver Glasner wants to add a new first-choice goalkeeper to his squad before the deadline, and Forest have had an offer turned down for former loanee Dean Henderson of Crystal Palace.
According to journalistMatteo Moretto, Forest have contacted Liverpool to discuss Mamardashvili's availability. The Georgia international joined Liverpool from Valencia for an initial fee of £25m last summer and made 10 Premier League appearances last season.
The 25-year-old is understood to feel frustrated about his role heading into the current campaign, with Alisson Becker remaining at Anfield as number one goalkeeper, despite speculation over a potential move to Juventus.
Liverpool also have issues around registration rules. Clubs can register a maximum of 17 players not classed as a 'homegrown player', with the Reds reaching that limit afterthe arrival of Ronald Araujo from Barcelona.
#forest #dean
26 days ago
PERTH, Australia (AP) — British social media celebrity and rapper Yung Filly can return to Britain before he stands trial in Australia next year on charges of raping a fan, a judge ruled on Thursday.
The 31-year-old Columbian-born entertainer, whose real name is Andres Felipe Valencia Barrientos, was convicted by a District Court of Western Australia jury last month of ******* aulting a woman in a Perth hotel room in September 2024.
The jury acquitted him on three counts of raping her. But prosecutors said last week they would retry him on another three rape charges on which jurors could not agree.
Barrientos returned Thursday to the court, where Judge Linda Black agreed to change his bail conditions so he can return to London while he waits for his second trial.
Black said although the retrial would be expedited and likely happen in 2027, there could be a delay.
#judge
The 31-year-old Columbian-born entertainer, whose real name is Andres Felipe Valencia Barrientos, was convicted by a District Court of Western Australia jury last month of ******* aulting a woman in a Perth hotel room in September 2024.
The jury acquitted him on three counts of raping her. But prosecutors said last week they would retry him on another three rape charges on which jurors could not agree.
Barrientos returned Thursday to the court, where Judge Linda Black agreed to change his bail conditions so he can return to London while he waits for his second trial.
Black said although the retrial would be expedited and likely happen in 2027, there could be a delay.
#judge
26 days ago
In this week's Closer Report, Mason Montgomery has been lights out for the Pirates in the second half. The Marlins lost Pete Fairbanks to the injured list just as he'd been pitching well. And Elvis Alvarado has quietly been great since the All-Star break, taking the lead for the closer role in Sacramento.
⚾️ Baseball is back! MLB returns to NBC and Peacock in 2026! In addition to becoming the exclusive home of Sunday Night Baseball, NBC Sports will broadcast MLB Sunday Leadoff, "Opening Day" and Labor Day primetime games, the first round of the MLB Draft, the entire Wild Card round of the postseason, and much more.
Fantasy Baseball Steals Report: Tyler Tolbert makes most of chance, target Eduardo Valencia
Who is stealing bases, who isn't, why, and how?
James Schiano,
#Baseball #report #sunday #round
⚾️ Baseball is back! MLB returns to NBC and Peacock in 2026! In addition to becoming the exclusive home of Sunday Night Baseball, NBC Sports will broadcast MLB Sunday Leadoff, "Opening Day" and Labor Day primetime games, the first round of the MLB Draft, the entire Wild Card round of the postseason, and much more.
Fantasy Baseball Steals Report: Tyler Tolbert makes most of chance, target Eduardo Valencia
Who is stealing bases, who isn't, why, and how?
James Schiano,
#Baseball #report #sunday #round
26 days ago
Now Valencia Basket's Mario Saint-Supery of Spain in the EuroLeague and LSU Tigers' Donovan Dent didn't want to be a part of the Gonzaga Bulldogs with the larger paycheck calling. Florida Gators' Xaivian Lee does, who has a natural fit with the program's style of running a half-court offense and utilizing the pick-and-roll heavily.
The point guard transfer committed to the Zags after receiving a fifth year of college eligibility and the ability to enter the transfer portal through a temporary restraining order in the state of California granted on Aug. 18. This move has been rumored for a couple of weeks now.
He's currently eligible, but the NCAA continues to appeal all the Class of 2022 athletes' statuses in what has been the craziest offseason full of nonsense and time-wasting lawsuits. Nothing is for certain in this time of age.
Despite him competing with the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Summer League this past July, Lee is still eligible to return to college basketball since he didn't officially sign an Exhibit 10 contract.
NEWS: Florida transfer guard Xaivian Lee has committed to Gonzaga, his agency GSLSportsGroup tells On3.
The 6-4 senior averaged 11.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.2 **** ists per game this past season. Lee played NBA Summer League with the Cavs.https://t.co/2T7nsHPuAg https://t.co/3Qy04vBEC1 pic.twitter.com/fKJis4aYtt
#Florida #summer #league #guard
The point guard transfer committed to the Zags after receiving a fifth year of college eligibility and the ability to enter the transfer portal through a temporary restraining order in the state of California granted on Aug. 18. This move has been rumored for a couple of weeks now.
He's currently eligible, but the NCAA continues to appeal all the Class of 2022 athletes' statuses in what has been the craziest offseason full of nonsense and time-wasting lawsuits. Nothing is for certain in this time of age.
Despite him competing with the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Summer League this past July, Lee is still eligible to return to college basketball since he didn't officially sign an Exhibit 10 contract.
NEWS: Florida transfer guard Xaivian Lee has committed to Gonzaga, his agency GSLSportsGroup tells On3.
The 6-4 senior averaged 11.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.2 **** ists per game this past season. Lee played NBA Summer League with the Cavs.https://t.co/2T7nsHPuAg https://t.co/3Qy04vBEC1 pic.twitter.com/fKJis4aYtt
#Florida #summer #league #guard
27 days ago
Mourinho returns to the Bernabéu thirteen years later and MARCA sums up the challenge of Madrid's season in one word: connection — the one that must click between Vinicius and Mbappé if Real Madrid want to challenge for the biggest ******* les.
Livakovic arrives in Barcelona and, meanwhile, Laporta meets with Deco and puts the backup plan for Julián on hold for now.
The other Xavi of the day is academy product Espart, who stays with the first-team squad and takes the No. 12 shirt.
Betis knocked out Valencia with a stunning goal from Pablo García and saves from Álvaro Valles. A harsh reality check for Corberán's side.
The win leaves Betis and Sevilla, the two Seville clubs, as the only leaders with six points.
#mourinho #real #madrid
Livakovic arrives in Barcelona and, meanwhile, Laporta meets with Deco and puts the backup plan for Julián on hold for now.
The other Xavi of the day is academy product Espart, who stays with the first-team squad and takes the No. 12 shirt.
Betis knocked out Valencia with a stunning goal from Pablo García and saves from Álvaro Valles. A harsh reality check for Corberán's side.
The win leaves Betis and Sevilla, the two Seville clubs, as the only leaders with six points.
#mourinho #real #madrid
29 days ago
Photos by Rob Gray (Polarity Photo)
Enea Bastianini is trading Tech3 KTM's struggling package for one of the 2026 grid's genuine front-runners, joining the SuperFile Trackhouse squad on Aprilia machinery for the next two seasons.
Trackhouse confirmed the signing on August 24, with the Italian set to partner Raul Fernandez, who recently renewed with the American outfit. Bastianini fills the seat vacated by Ai Ogura, who is moving to Yamaha. The switch pairs "The Beast" with a team that has been a regular presence at the sharp end of the championship this year - a marked upgrade over the Tech3 KTM effort he's been enduring.
Tech3 announced the split in the week leading up to Aragon, posting a farewell to Il Romagnolo on social media. "After two seasons with the team, it's time to say goodbye to Enea Bastianini at the end of the year," the team wrote. "Thank you for everything you've brought to the team over the past two seasons: the commitment, the racing, the laughs and the moments along the way. We've still got a season to finish together, but we'll be wishing you all the good luck, Enea!" Bastianini still has the balance of 2026 to run out on the RC16 before closing that chapter.
The timing lines up with a broader reset across MotoGP. Bastianini steps into a new-era Aprilia RS-GP built around the incoming regulations, with the reduced-capacity 850cc machinery, revised tires, and a fresh rulebook all landing at once. Pre-season testing kicks off at Valencia after the 2026 finale, giving him an early run at development work on the new bike.
#tech3 #team #seasons #year
Enea Bastianini is trading Tech3 KTM's struggling package for one of the 2026 grid's genuine front-runners, joining the SuperFile Trackhouse squad on Aprilia machinery for the next two seasons.
Trackhouse confirmed the signing on August 24, with the Italian set to partner Raul Fernandez, who recently renewed with the American outfit. Bastianini fills the seat vacated by Ai Ogura, who is moving to Yamaha. The switch pairs "The Beast" with a team that has been a regular presence at the sharp end of the championship this year - a marked upgrade over the Tech3 KTM effort he's been enduring.
Tech3 announced the split in the week leading up to Aragon, posting a farewell to Il Romagnolo on social media. "After two seasons with the team, it's time to say goodbye to Enea Bastianini at the end of the year," the team wrote. "Thank you for everything you've brought to the team over the past two seasons: the commitment, the racing, the laughs and the moments along the way. We've still got a season to finish together, but we'll be wishing you all the good luck, Enea!" Bastianini still has the balance of 2026 to run out on the RC16 before closing that chapter.
The timing lines up with a broader reset across MotoGP. Bastianini steps into a new-era Aprilia RS-GP built around the incoming regulations, with the reduced-capacity 850cc machinery, revised tires, and a fresh rulebook all landing at once. Pre-season testing kicks off at Valencia after the 2026 finale, giving him an early run at development work on the new bike.
#tech3 #team #seasons #year
29 days ago
Vinicius Jr. finally has his long-term future at Real Madrid sorted, having ended months of uncertainty by signing a new contract until 2032 earlier this month.
Yet, the renewal has done little to silence one of his fiercest critics.
Former Spain and Valencia goalkeeper Santiago Canizares has launched a remarkable attack on Vinicius, questioning not only his value to Real Madrid but also whether other top clubs would even want to sign a player with his profile.
Canizares' comments come after a summer in which Vinicius' future became a genuine talking point.
Notably, negotiations over a new deal had dragged on for more than a year, with the player's salary and signing bonus demands proving to be major obstacles.
#signing
Yet, the renewal has done little to silence one of his fiercest critics.
Former Spain and Valencia goalkeeper Santiago Canizares has launched a remarkable attack on Vinicius, questioning not only his value to Real Madrid but also whether other top clubs would even want to sign a player with his profile.
Canizares' comments come after a summer in which Vinicius' future became a genuine talking point.
Notably, negotiations over a new deal had dragged on for more than a year, with the player's salary and signing bonus demands proving to be major obstacles.
#signing
1 month ago
HARRISON, N.J. (AP) — Cameron Harper scored late in the second half after subbing in a minute earlier and the New York Red Bulls rallied for a 1-1 draw with the Chicago Fire on Saturday night.
Harper replaced Julian Hall in the 85th minute then used ****** ists from Eric Maxim-Choupo and Omar Valencia to score in the 86th. It was his first goal in his fourth appearance this season.
Maren Heile-Selassie used ****** ists from defender Viktor Radojević and Jonathan Bamba in the 38th minute to score his fourth goal and give Chicago a 1-0 lead that stood through halftime.
It was the first ****** ist for Radojević in his third career start and 10th appearance.
Ethan Horvath had four saves for New York (7-9-5) to help end a two-match skid.
#minute #Chicago #radojevi #goal
Harper replaced Julian Hall in the 85th minute then used ****** ists from Eric Maxim-Choupo and Omar Valencia to score in the 86th. It was his first goal in his fourth appearance this season.
Maren Heile-Selassie used ****** ists from defender Viktor Radojević and Jonathan Bamba in the 38th minute to score his fourth goal and give Chicago a 1-0 lead that stood through halftime.
It was the first ****** ist for Radojević in his third career start and 10th appearance.
Ethan Horvath had four saves for New York (7-9-5) to help end a two-match skid.
#minute #Chicago #radojevi #goal
1 month ago
With the continuous disaster that the NCAA created and put on itself, some more bad news on the Gonzaga Bulldogs'front.
According to court documents from the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals, all Class of 2022 athletes from the state of Colorado ruling, except for those who have their own temporary restraining order or injunction until further state court order, are now ineligible after the NCAA stay was granted in the Ohio case.
That includes Gonzaga point guard Javon Bennett with the injunction now pending. He can attempt to join an existing state lawsuit or file a separate lawsuit, but there's no guarantee a judge will allow that.
The Zags technically have four open roster spots with all this fifth-year college eligibility nonsense going on in college athletics. They still await the outcome for point guard Nathan De Sousa of France's Cholet Basket and power forward/center Izan Almansa of Spain's Real Madrid.
To make the day even worse, Gonzaga is out of the lead guard Donovan Dent sweepstakes. The UCLA Bruins transfer guard will be joining coach Will Wade and the LSU Tigers, he told On3. After announcing his retirement from basketball in May and then unretiring in July, everyone thought Dent was headed to Spokane, Washington, once Mario Saint-Supery left the program for Spain's Valencia Basket of the EuroLeague.
#gonzaga
According to court documents from the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals, all Class of 2022 athletes from the state of Colorado ruling, except for those who have their own temporary restraining order or injunction until further state court order, are now ineligible after the NCAA stay was granted in the Ohio case.
That includes Gonzaga point guard Javon Bennett with the injunction now pending. He can attempt to join an existing state lawsuit or file a separate lawsuit, but there's no guarantee a judge will allow that.
The Zags technically have four open roster spots with all this fifth-year college eligibility nonsense going on in college athletics. They still await the outcome for point guard Nathan De Sousa of France's Cholet Basket and power forward/center Izan Almansa of Spain's Real Madrid.
To make the day even worse, Gonzaga is out of the lead guard Donovan Dent sweepstakes. The UCLA Bruins transfer guard will be joining coach Will Wade and the LSU Tigers, he told On3. After announcing his retirement from basketball in May and then unretiring in July, everyone thought Dent was headed to Spokane, Washington, once Mario Saint-Supery left the program for Spain's Valencia Basket of the EuroLeague.
#gonzaga
