Footballers who were once a part of AS Monaco

AS Monaco is one of the most successful clubs in French football, having won eight league titles, five Coupe de France trophies and one Coupe de la Ligue. The club is among the best in European football and was runners-up in the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup in 1992 and the UEFA Champions League in 2004. 

The French club has seen numerous star players among their ranks. The likes of Kylian Mbappe, Thierry Henry and Bernardo Silva have all passed through the club’s doors. Starting their journey at AS Monaco, these players have gone on to become some of the finest players the game has ever seen.

Here are the incredible players who were once a part of the French club AS Monaco.

Fabinho 

Fábio Henrique Tavares, known as Fabinho, is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Premier League club Liverpool and the Brazil national team. A versatile player who mainly plays as a defensive midfielder, Fabinho can also be deployed as a right-back or centre-back.

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – MARCH 10: Fabinho of Liverpool poses for a photo with his Player of the match award after the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 match between Liverpool FC and RB Leipzig at the Puskas Arena on March 10, 2021 in Budapest, Hungary. Sporting stadiums around Germany remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Laszlo Szirtesi – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)

He spent five years at Monaco, playing 233 games, scoring 31 goals, and winning Ligue 1 in 2016–17. After that, he went to Liverpool and won the Champions League during his debut season. He also won the UEFA Super Cup in 2019 and also played a key role in guiding Liverpool to the Premier League title in 2020, the club’s first league title in 30 years.

Youri Tielemans 

Youri Tielemans spent just 18 months in Monaco but showed everyone why he is considered one of the best. Tielemans has been tipped for greatness since his days at RSC Anderlecht, where he became the club’s fourth-youngest player ever when he made his debut at just 16 in 2013.

CARDIFF, WALES – JUNE 11: Youri Tielemans of Belgium during the UEFA Nations League League A Group 4 match between Wales and Belgium at Cardiff City Stadium on June 11, 2022 in Cardiff, United Kingdom. (Photo by Joe Prior/Visionhaus via Getty Images)

The Belgian footballer scored 5 goals in 47 appearances for AS Monaco. The footballer is currently playing for Leicester City.

Bernardo Silva 

The Portugal midfielder, who was once a part of AS Monaco, has enthralled the audience with his stunning dribbles and free-kicks at his current club Manchester City. 

Bernardo Silva was a part of AS Monaco’s “Class of 2017”, who won the Ligue 1 and reached the semi-finals of the Champions League that year. 

Monaco’s Portuguese midfielder Bernardo Silva celebrates after his team scored a goal during the UEFA Champions League round of 16 football match between Monaco and Manchester City at the Stade Louis II in Monaco on March 15, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / Valery HACHE (Photo credit should read VALERY HACHE/AFP via Getty Images)

His time at Monaco saw him play a more expansive role, but an equally crucial one on the right wing, progressing the ball in wide areas before supplying the lethal frontmen. He has also established himself as a key player in the national set-up for Portugal, lifting the UEFA Nations League trophy in 2019.

Silva scored 24 goals in 101 appearances during his time at Monaco.

Kylian Mbappe 

Kylian Mbappe is one of the most popular footballers who was sold by the French club. The French attacker joined Monaco Youth in 2013 and later played with the Under 19, UEFA Under-19, reserve, and senior teams. During his time at AS Monaco, Kylian Mbappe scored 16 goals in a total of 41 appearances. 

Monaco’s French forward Kylian Mbappe smiles after the French L1 football match between Monaco (ASM) and Marseille (OM) on August 27, 2017, at the Louis II Stadium in Monaco. / AFP PHOTO / VALERY HACHE (Photo credit should read VALERY HACHE/AFP via Getty Images)

Mbappe is now plying his trade for his hometown club, Paris Saint-Germain, after joining from AS Monaco in a deal which saw him become the second-most expensive player ever.

 

Thierry Henry 

Very few people knew about this. Thierry Henry, France’s talismanic striker, was once a part of AS Monaco. 

Henry started his career by playing for the youth side of AS Monaco. Then he played for Monaco B. The all-time great made his debut for the senior squad in 1994 and played until the summer of 1999.

23 Apr 2000: Thierry Henry of Arsenal celebrates during the FA Carling Premiership game between Watford and Arsenal at Vicarage Road in Watford, England. The game finished 2-3 to Arsenal. Mandatory Credit: Gary M Prior/Allsport

During his time at the club, he appeared in 124 football matches scoring 26 goals with 2 assists.

Radamel Falcao

Widely regarded as one of the best strikers in the world, Radamel Falcao controversially signed for newly promoted Ligue 1 side AS Monaco in 2013 for a club record €60 million, despite interest from top European clubs. In the second half of his debut season, an ACL injury ruled him out for six months, and he spent the next two seasons on loan at Premier League clubs Manchester United and Chelsea.

Rejoining AS Monaco in the summer of 2016, he regained his best form and led them to their first Ligue 1 title in 17 years.

The striker has scored 65 goals in 108 appearances for the club.

James Rodriguez

Did you know the Colombian wonderkid who lit up the 2010 FIFA World Cup with his amazing goals was a part of AS Monaco? 

The attacking midfielder was a part of AS Monaco during the 2013-14 season, where he played 38 games and scored 10 goals and 14 assists. 

HALEWOOD, ENGLAND – April 21: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) James Rodriguez during the Everton Training Session at USM Finch Farm on April 21 2021 in Halewood, England. (Photo by Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images)

In 2014, James moved from AS Monaco to Real Madrid for a transfer fee of £63 million, which beat the record set by Radamel Falcao and made him the most expensive Colombian football player and one of the most expensive players at the time.

Patrice Evra

Patrice Evra is a French football coach and former professional player. Originally a forward, he primarily played as a left-back. 

SWANSEA, WALES – MARCH 03: Patrice Evra of West Ham United arrives prior to the Premier League match between Swansea City and West Ham United at Liberty Stadium on March 3, 2018 in Swansea, Wales. (Photo by Christopher Lee/Getty Images)

Vieira, who began his career at Marsala, was once a part of AS Monaco. The former Manchester United captain played for the French team from 2002 to 2006 for a total of 120 games. With his solid defensive skills, the footballer managed to get his team to the 2004 Champions League final.

Dimitar Berbatov

Another former Manchester United player makes the list. Dimitar Berbatov, the Bulgarian footballer, was also a part of AS Monaco once upon a time. 

 

The athletic attacker played for Monaco during the 2014-15 season, scoring 13 goals in a total of 38 appearances. 

Yaya Toure

Gnégnéri Yaya Touré is an Ivorian professional football coach and former player who played as a midfielder. He is an academy coach for Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur.

A dejected Didier Drogba of Ivory Coast is comforted by Yaya Toure after missing his penalty during the 2012 African Cup of Nations Final between Zambia and Ivory Coast at the Stade de l’Amitie in Libreville, Gabon. Photo: Ben Radford/Visionhaus (Photo by Ben Radford/Corbis via Getty Images)

The Ivory Coast midfielder was a part of AS Monaco during the 2006-07 season, playing a total of 27 matches and scoring 5 goals. 

Notable Mentions

Some of the notable mentions who were a part of AS Monaco include Emanuel Adebayor, Lilian Thuram, Takumi Minamino, Abdou Diallo, Benjamin Mendy and Ludovic Giuly.

Which player do you think was the most successful? Comment down your replies.

Real Madrid agrees to sign Palmeiras’ centre-forward Endrick

La Liga giants Real Madrid have agreed to sign Brazilian wonderkid Endrick from Palmeiras on a five-year deal, as per an ESPN report. The deal, worth €72 million, will see the teenage striker move to Spain in 2024.

As per the report, Madrid have agreed to pay Endrick’s release clause of €60 million and are also paying an extra €12 million to cover the taxes required by Spanish authorities when a Brazilian footballer moves to La Liga. Real Madrid are using the same strategy that helped them get Vinicius Junior, another Brazilian attacker, back in 2017.

The official announcement depends on Endrick signing the contract, and other details thought to be formalities, given that both sides have agreed on the terms of the transfer.

Endrick, who plays for Palmeiras, helped the Sao Paulo team win this year’s Brasileirao title. He also became the youngest goalscorer in the club’s history when he scored twice against Athletico Paranaense.

Team of Manchester United

Amid World Cup, ten Hag’s United lose a friendly to Cadiz

Did you think yesterday was an off-day for all the football fans? Well, your guess is half right. There was friendly football action happening at Cadiz, Spain, miles away from Qatar, where the entire world’s eyes are at the moment.

Manchester United were in action against Spanish football club Cadiz yesterday. And the La Liga club managed to beat the English Premier League giants 4-2 in the first match for the club since axing Cristiano Ronaldo.

The game saw Cadiz take a lead of 2 goals within the first 15 minutes, thanks to Carlos Garcia and Anthony Lozano’s wonderful strikes. However, the English side managed to get one back, with Anthony Martial converting a penalty. The hosts, Cadiz, went into the break with a comfortable 2-1 lead.

As the second half began, Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo scored the equaliser to make the scoreline 2-2. However, the club’s defence faltered since. They made a lot of defensive errors that cost them two goals; one from Ruben Sobrino and another from Tomás Alarcon.

Erik ten Hag, the coach of Manchester United, was disappointed with the team’s efforts. Speaking with MUTV after the game, the Manchester United manager spoke about the game in general. ‘More negatives than positives’ was the real takeaway point from the interview.

Manchester United will next face Spanish club Real Betis on 10th December. The club will try to make the most out of this game.

Ronaldo denies signing Al Nassr deal

Cristiano Ronaldo has put all the speculations to rest. The former Manchester United striker has denied signing Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr’s massive two-and-a-half-year deal for £173million-a-year.

Speaking after coming off the bench in Portugal’s 6-1 win over Switzerland at the World Cup, a rare substitute appearance for his country, Ronaldo was asked about the move.

“No, it’s not true,” he told reporters.

The Portugal superstar is currently without a club after he mutually decided to part ways with his former club, Manchester United. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner may struggle to find a top-tier club in Europe, given his relative decline in form in recent times, compared to his peak years at Real Madrid and the huge salary he is expected to be seeking.

The Portugal superstar denied saying anything else, as he wants to focus on the World Cup. After hammering Switzerland in the Round of 16, Portugal will face Morocco in the quarterfinals.

Roger Federer vs Rafael Nadal: A rivalry for the ages 

A great rivalry makes a sport more interesting, and there is no denying that. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have single-handedly divided the football world into two halves. Every sport needs a classic rivalry to make the game better, and Tennis has its own in the name of Federer and Nadal. 

However, Federer and Nadal are a different breed of rivals, unlike competitors in any other sport. While the two legends used to go for each other’s throats on the tennis court, the world saw both of them shredding tears together when Roger Federer played his last official tennis match in September 2022. 

Arguably, the two greatest tennis players of the modern generation re-defined athleticism, longevity and rivalry. They made each other better while entertaining millions of their fans. The tussle, which went on for 18 years, ended in 2022, but it has given the world of tennis so much to talk about. Let’s have a look at one of the greatest opponents in the history of tennis, the “Federer-Nadal” story. 

Roger Federer vs Rafael Nadal: A rivalry for the ages 

Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer played each other for the first time in 2004 in the third round of the Miami Masters. A 17-year-old Rafael Nadal, who was ranked 34 at that time, managed to beat no.1 ranked Roger Federer in straight sets. Rafael Nadal became an overnight sensation, and that’s how it all began. 

Creator: Clive Brunskill Copyright: 2017 Getty ImagesNadal and Federer faced each other a total of 40 times, with Nadal leading 24–16 overall, which includes 14–10 in finals. Out of the 40 matches played between them, 20 were played on a hard court, 16 on clay, and a total of 4 matches on grass. 

Nadal leads Federer (14–2) on clay and (8–6) on outdoor hard court. Federer leads Nadal (3–1) on grass and (5–1) on an indoor hard court. Nadal leads Federer 3-1 at the Australian Open and 6–0 at the French Open, while Federer has the upper hand at Wimbledon (3-1). Nadal and Federer have faced each other a total of 14 times in majors, with Nadal leading 10–4. 

Rafael Nadal ranks no.1, while Roger Federer ranks no.3 on the men’s all-time list for the most major singles titles. Rafael Nadal has won a total of 22 major titles, while Roger Federer has claimed 20 to his name. Novak Djokovic is second on the list with 21 titles. Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer have shared a total of 11 consecutive majors between them, from the 2005 French Open to the 2007 US open. 

Federer and Nadal are the only duos to finish as the top two ranked players for six consecutive calendar years on the ATP Tour, from 2005 to 2010. The 2008 Wimbledon final game between Federer and Nadal is touted as the greatest match to be ever played in the history of Tennis. 2005 Miami Open final, 2006 Italian Open final, 2007 Wimbledon final, and 2009 Australian Open final are some of the other matches between these two, which are considered to be the epitome of Tennis.

As Nadal won the first match between the two, Roger Federer won the last match played against the Spaniard in the Semi-finals of the 2019 Wimbledon Championships. It can be rightly said the greatest tennis rivalry on earth was started by Nadal but ended by Federer. Poetic. 

What did Rafael Nadal say about Roger Federer’s retirement? 

“Someone I have admired, who I have rivalled, and also I have shared many beautiful things on and off the court was leaving. In that sense, all those moments, those feelings you have before playing a final of a grand slam, of an important tournament, everything that was in the air before those matches. It was different from other matches. 

You know you’re not going to live that again, and a part of my life left with him [when he retired]. It was also the emotion of saying goodbye to someone who has been so important to our sport.” 

My time will come when it has to come. “I’m quite prepared for my next life outside tennis. I don’t think it’s going to be a problem for me beyond what will be an adaptation to the changes. My life has things equally or more important than tennis.” 

What did Roger Federer say about Rafael Nadal after his retirement? 

“It showed once again what we mean to each other and how much respect we have for each other. The feeling of having a tough rivalry but still showing: It’s just tennis – also a sign that both wanted to set. “It was an incredible effort from Rafa, and I will never forget what he did for me in London.” 

Rafael Nadal vs Roger Federer (all matches) 

2019 Wimbledon (winner: Roger Federer) 

2019 Roland Garros (winner: Rafael Nadal) 

2019 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Roger Federer) 

2017 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Roger Federer) 

2017 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Roger Federer) 

2017 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Roger Federer) 

2017 Australian Open (winner: Roger Federer) 

2015 Basel Switzerland (winner: Roger Federer) 

2014 Australian Open (winner: Rafael Nadal) 

2013 ATP Finals (winner: Rafael Nadal) 

2013 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Rafael Nadal) 

2013 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Rafael Nadal) 

2013 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Rafael Nadal) 

2012 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Roger Federer) 

2012 Australian Open (winner: Rafael Nadal) 

2011 ATP Finals (winner: Roger Federer) 

2011 Roland Garros (winner: Rafael Nadal) 

2011 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Rafael Nadal) 

2011 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Rafael Nadal) 

2010 ATP Finals (winner: Roger Federer) 

2010 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Rafael Nadal)

2009 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Roger Federer)

2009 Australian Open (winner: Rafael Nadal)

2008 Wimbledon (winner: Rafael Nadal)

2008 Roland Garros (winner: Rafael Nadal)

2008 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Rafael Nadal)

2008 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Rafael Nadal)

2007 Tennis Masters Cup (winner: Roger Federer)

2007 Wimbledon (winner: Roger Federer)

2007 Roland Garros winner: Rafael Nadal

2007 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Roger Federer)

2007 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Rafael Nadal)

2006 Tennis Masters Cup (winner: Roger Federer)

2006 Wimbledon (winner: Roger Federer)

2006 Roland Garros (winner: Rafael Nadal)

2006 ATP Masters (winner: Rafael Nadal)

2006 ATP Masters (winner: Rafael Nadal)

2006 Dubai (winner: Rafael Nadal) 

2005 Roland Garros (winner: Rafael Nadal)

2005 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Roger Federer)

2004 ATP Masters 1000 (winner: Rafael Nadal)

South Korea’s manager Paulo Bento resigns following Brazil loss

Following a massive 4-1 loss in the Round of 16 match against Brazil, South Korea’s manager Paulo Bento has confirmed that he has resigned from the high-profile position.

The Selecao killed the game for the South Koreans with an unassailable 4-goal lead before the first-half whistle. However, the South Koreans got one back with a stunning strike from Seung-Ho Paik in the 76th minute.

Bento has confirmed his decision in the post-match announcement. “I have just announced to the players and the president of the federation that this is a decision I took in September. It is set in stone, and I have confirmed it. I have to thank everyone for everything they have done,” he said.

He further added, “From now onwards, we have to think about the future. I’m going to rest, and we have to see what will happen after I rest.”

South Korea blew hot and cold at the FIFA World Cup. Starting their campaign, the Asians played a goalless draw against Uruguay and a dramatic 3-2 loss to Ghana, which saw their manager Bento being sent off. The South Koreans then beat title contenders Portugal 2-1 in their final group stage game to qualify for the Round of 16.

close-up-football-scene-night-match-with-player-red-uniform-kicking-fiery-ball-with-power

Footballers Who Didn’t Play For Their Birth Nation at the World Cup

It is a dream for every player to represent their country at the highest level. Playing for a top club is a major achievement, but nothing can match the ecstasy of representing one’s country at a major global event like the FIFA World Cup. From a rookie to a legend, no footballer will ever want to miss the opportunity to play for their national sides. However, not every player gets the national call, and sometimes they are forced to change their nationality just for the sake of playing at the international level. 

Players are left with no options but to represent other countries due to a lack of opportunities on their national side. Many players opt for a stronger nation that has a better chance of winning a major trophy. Almost 16 percent of the players are representing other countries in the 2022 Qatar World Cup. Let’s look at some of the big names from the list. 

Players who don’t play for their birth nation at the FIFA World Cup 

1) Kalidou Koulibaly 

Kalidou Koulibaly 

DOHA, QATAR – NOVEMBER 29: Kalidou Koulibaly of Senegal controls the ball during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Group A match between Ecuador and Senegal at Khalifa International Stadium on November 29, 2022 in Doha, Qatar. (Photo by Matteo Ciambelli/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)

Born: France 

Representing: Senegal 

The Chelsea superstar was born in Saint-Die-des-Vosges, France but plied his trades with Senegal at the international level. Koulibaly was born in a Senegalese household that allowed him to represent either France or Senegal on the national level; the centre-back chose the latter. 

Interestingly, Koulibaly represented France at the 2011 U20 World Cup in Colombia. However, he later decided to switch sides and started his international career with Senegal in September 2015.

2) Pepe 

Pepe 

MADRID, SPAIN – JUNE 04: Pepe of Portugal reacts during the international friendly match between Spain and Portugal at Wanda Metropolitano stadium on June 04, 2021 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Born: Brazil 

Representing: Portugal 

Pepe has been the backbone of the Portuguese national team for 15 years now. The 39-year-old became the second oldest outfield player in the history of the World Cup after representing Portugal against Uruguay in the 2022 World Cup group stages. However, Pepe could have played for Brazil as he was born in Marceio. 

According to Pepe’s father, the former Real Madrid centre-back refused the opportunity to represent Brazil in 2006 when he was offered the chance by the Brazilian coach Dunga. Nevertheless, Pepe made history with Portugal after winning UEFA Euro 2016. 

3) Alphonso Davies 

Alphonso Davies

Picture Credit:
Creator: Vaughn Ridley
Copyright: 2021 Vaughn Ridley

Born: Ghana 

Representing: Canada

The Bayern Munich starlet could have represented Ghana, but Canada left no stone unturned to grab the raw talent. The Canada national team signed him up for their U15 team. Davies was born in Buduburam and was a Liberian citizen by birth. 

4) Sergej Milinkovic-Savic 

Sergej Milinkovic-Savic 

ROME, ITALY – MAY 21: Sergej Milinkovic-Savic of SS Lazio greets the fans at the end of the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Olimpico on May 21, 2022 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Silvia Lore/Getty Images)

Born: Spain 

Representing: Serbia 

Sergej Milinkovic-Savic was born in Lleida, Spain. Sergej’s father, Nikola Milinkovic, played for UE Lleida. However, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic decided to represent Serbia. Milinkovic-Savic has been a crucial part of the Serbian national team. 

5) Giovanni Reyna 

Giovanni Reyna

SWANSEA, WALES – NOVEMBER 12: USA player Giovanni Reyna beats Chris Gunter to the ball during the international friendly match between Wales and the USA at Liberty Stadium on November 12, 2020 in Swansea, Wales. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Born: England 

Representing: USA 

Giovanni Reyna has already made a name for himself at the young age of 20. However, not many people know that the Borussia Dortmund academy graduate was born in Sunderland, England. Giovanni Reyna’s father, Claudio Reyna, played for Sunderland FC. However, the Reyna family moved back to the USA when Giovanni was just 5 years old. Giovanni Reyna later joined the USA national team. 

6) Raheem Sterling 

Raheem Sterling 

2JCDP43 11 Jun 2022 – England v Italy – UEFA Nations League – Group 3 – Molineux Stadium
Raheem Sterling during the match against Italy.
Picture Credit : © Mark Pain / Alamy Live News

Born: Jamaica 

Representing: England 

Raheem Sterling is one of the most established English footballers of the modern generation. He is a regular starter for Gareth Southgate in the English side as he is a very critical part of the Three Lions in their 2022 Qatar World Cup campaign. 

However, Sterling was born in Kingston, Jamaica and not in England. Nevertheless, his family moved to England when he was just five and made it to the top of the English football scene with the abundance of talent he holds. 

7) Luuk de Jong 

Luuk de Jong 

Netherland’s forward Luuk de Jong warms up before the UEFA EURO 2020 Group C football match between North Macedonia and the Netherlands at Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam on June 21, 2021. (Photo by Peter Dejong / POOL / AFP) (Photo by PETER DEJONG/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Born: Switzerland 

Representing: Netherlands 

Luuk de Jong is as Dutch as any Dutch can get, just going by his name. Interestingly, the former Barcelona striker was born in Aigle, Switzerland. However, Luuk de Jong was very sure about representing the Netherlands from the start and earned his first senior team call in 2011. Luuk de Jong has scored 8 goals in his 28 appearances for the Netherlands.

8) Eric Choupo-Moting 

Eric Choupo-Moting

TOPSHOT – Cameroon’s forward #13 Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Qatar 2022 World Cup Group G football match between Cameroon and Serbia at the Al-Janoub Stadium in Al-Wakrah, south of Doha on November 28, 2022. (Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP) (Photo by ANNE-CHRISTINE POUJOULAT/AFP via Getty Images)

Born: Germany 

Representing: Cameroon 

Eric Choupo-Moting has been the key striker for Bayern Munich since Robert Lewandowski left for Barcelona in the summer of 2022. Choupo-moting has spent a large chunk of his career in Germany, the country where he was born. However, as unrealistic as it sounds, Choupo-Moting decided to play for Cameroon in 2010 and has been representing the country since then. 

Other Players who didn’t represent the country they were born in

Simone Perrotta 

Born: England 

Represented: Italy 

Mauro Camoranesi 

Born: Argentina 

Represented: Italy 

Eduardo Da Silva 

Born: Brazil 

Represented: Croatia

Marcos Senna 

Born: Brazil 

Represented: Spain

Lukas Podolski 

Born: Germany 

Represented: Poland

Eusebio 

Born: Mozambique 

Represented: Portugal

Deco

Born: Portugal 

Represented: Brazil

Diego Costa 

Born: Brazil 

Represented: Spain

Alfredo Di Stefano 

Born: Argentina 

Represented: Spain

Marcel Desailly 

Represented: France

Born: Ghana 

Miroslav Klose 

Born: Poland 

Represented: Germany

Patrick Vieira 

Born: Senegal 

Represented: France

John Barnes 

Born: Jamaica

Represented: England

Aussie pace duo Lance Morris & Michael Neser added to the national squad

With Pat Cummins sustaining a thigh strain, the Australian Cricket Board has added Lance Morris and Michael Neser as backup pace options for the second NRMA Insurance Test against West Indies in Adelaide.

Australia captain Cummins is under an injury cloud after not bowling on the fifth day in the victory over West Indies in Perth owing to a thigh strain. Hence, both the new additions to the national squad are a precautionary measure because of the hectic schedule of the Australian squad.

“Michael (Neser) has been with the squad on a regular basis in past seasons and was simply outstanding in Adelaide last summer,” said selection chairman George Bailey. “He has continued to perform incredibly consistently since and will be warmly welcomed back.

“Lance is another of the outstanding young fast bowlers coming through the ranks. He has genuine pace, and his ability to create opportunities for wickets is a real drawcard. It will be a great experience for him to come into the environment”, he further added.

Morris, who earned his first call-up to the national squad, has collected 27 wickets in five matches for Western Australia this Marsh Sheffield Shield season to top the wicket-takers tally, with his victims coming at an average of 18.40 and a strike rate of 33.1.

Australia’s revised squad for the Adelaide Test: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, David Warner, Michael Neser, Lance Morris.

Umran Malik to replace Mohd. Shami for Bangladesh ODIs

What a year it has been for Umran Malik. After impressing everyone with his pace in the IPL, the speedster produced excellent performances in the recently concluded New Zealand series.

And now, the young pacer from Kashmir has been included in the limited-overs series against Bangladesh. The fast bowler replaces Mohammad Shami, who sustained a shoulder injury during a training session.


Umran Malik lived up to the expectations in the ODI series against New Zealand. He troubled the New Zealand batters with his raw pace. Umran will join the likes of Chahar, Shardul, Mohammed Siraj and Kuldeep Sen in India’s pace attack for the ODI series against Bangladesh.

Meanwhile, Shami is currently under the supervision of the BCCI Medical Team at the NCA, Bengaluru and will not be able to participate in the three-match series.

Revised India’s squad for Bangladesh ODIs: Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Shreyas Iyer, Rahul Tripathi, Rishabh Pant (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Shahbaz Ahmed, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Deepak Chahar, Kuldeep Sen, Umran Malik

Shuttlecocks & Badminton Racket Shown in Image

The Ultimate Guide to different types of shuttlecocks

Badminton is a game that requires some specific skill sets and strategies to take your opponents down. But when you are a layman in the game, you understand that other than these factors, the necessary equipment needs to be purchased to refine the style. 

Why choose the right equipment for badminton? 

Badminton has various badminton types, shuttlecocks, and other equipment. The beauty of it is that these tools are made in different forms and styles. One can choose any badminton and shuttle they like according to their convenience. It is a must to play with the right game gear according to the level that you belong to. If you are a beginner and try your hand at an advanced level shuttle, it can make the game more complicated, and these kits are expensive to use carelessly. 

Three kinds of badminton shuttlecocks are available for players. It is suitable for different kinds and levels of game styles. Let’s see further what the highlights are that these shuttlecocks have and for which level of games they can be used. 

Feather shuttlecock: 

  • The feather shuttlecock is used by all the high-level players. You won’t see this shuttlecock in a beginner’s hand as an intermediate and professional player deals with it. 
  • The professionals prefer it because it is made out of goose feathers, making the quality much more elite than the others. It is not recommended for newbies because they can be too rough with it as, initially, badminton can be a difficult game to engage in that can break the feathers and damage the shuttlecocks. Experts have an idea of how to engage with the shuttle that can maintain it. 
  • The positive is that it can be tackled quite conveniently, unlike the other shuttles. If you are looking for some slice and net spin, then this is the right tool, as it can be accomplished using a feature shuttle. 

The disadvantage will be that it is less durable than the nylon one. The feathers tend to break or bend after numerous matches. There are certain ways that this problem can be dealt with if it is stored in a humid environment. When the feather gets brittle, that leads to breakage of the shuttlecock, so keeping it in humid conditions is a way to avoid this situation. 

Here are a few recommended badminton feather shuttlecocks.

Babolat 1 Badminton Feather Shuttlecock Speed 76 

Babolat 1 Badminton Feather Shuttlecock Speed 76 

  • This is the supreme quality shuttle that is available in the market. It is one of the classiest options that are available for players. 
  • It is made with Taiwanese goose feathers and a triple-layer cock. You do not have to buy shuttlecocks often as it is quite durable, and this speed is moderate.

Adidas Flieger FS5 badminton shuttlecock 

Adidas Flieger FS5 badminton shuttlecock 

  • If you have reached that level in your game where it is getting better, try this shuttlecock. 
  • It can be used for matches as well as practice sessions. This shuttlecock will give you a hands-on experience of what experts deal with in badminton. 
  • This is created out of the C goose feathers, and it also has a double-layer cork. These features can give you the experience of increased resistance, and the flight trajectory will improve to a great extent. 

YONEX Aeroclub ACB-TR Feather Shuttlecock

YONEX Aeroclub ACB-TR Feather Shuttlecock

  • This shuttle can be used for practice games and tournaments by the players. 
  • Yonex feature cock is made with keeping all the precision in mind. It is also suitable for various climatic conditions. 
  • Natural duck features are used to make this shuttle, giving this shuttlecock a great flight trajectory. 

YONEX Aerosensa 2 AS2 Badminton Shuttlecock

YONEX Aerosensa 2 AS2 Badminton Shuttlecock

  • The material that this shuttlecock is made up of is excellent for smashes and significant height drops. This shuttlecock is supreme in quality as the cork is solid 100%. 
  • This shuttle’s recovery time is shorter compared to the other shuttles. It does not get affected by cold or warm temperatures. 

Plastic/nylon shuttlecocks: 

  • This is used by beginners in the game as there is no need to worry about the shuttlecock breaking easily. It is inexpensive compared to the other ones available. 
  • They are created from a nylon material which can be observed after you touch the shuttlecock. 
  • Because of the material, it takes a faster flight but a slower declaration rather than the feather cock. The game, due to this reason, is quite fast as there is not much control over it. 
  • The best part is that this shuttlecock can go without tearing up to 100 matches which is a great option for beginners as they can practice with it regularly. 

Here are a few recommended badminton nylon shuttlecocks.

FZ Forza NS 10 Badminton Shuttlecock 

FZ Forza NS 10 Badminton Shuttlecock 

  • It is excellent regarding durability, as this shuttlecock will give you an experience of extraordinary playability. 
  • The cork is made up of natural material, and the skirt of this shuttle has been updated for the players to get the best experience. 

YONEX Mavis 350 nylon shuttlecock 

YONEX Mavis 350 nylon shuttlecock 

  • The best feature of the YONEX Mavis 350 nylon shuttlecock is that they are just 0.005 seconds slower than the feather shuttlecock. 
  • It recovers at 0.008 seconds, much faster than the other shuttlecock. 
  • It is similar to a feather shuttle, which is why it is excellent for beginners and intermediates in the game. 

Cosco AERO 777 Nylon Badminton Shuttle 

Cosco AERO 777 Nylon Badminton Shuttle 

This shuttle is used for club-level matches as it has a durable foam base that keeps the shuttlecock intact. 

YONEX Mavis 2000 Yellow Badminton Shuttlecock 

YONEX Mavis 2000 Yellow Badminton Shuttlecock 

  • If you are a beginner in the field of badminton, then this shuttle should be your first buy, as it is strongly suggested that newcomers should use this.
  • It gives a glimpse of how the feather shuttle will feel. This shuttlecock will aid in making your flight performance much better while considering any other competitors in the market. You will see this shuttle lasting for a longer time. 
  • It is a pocket-friendly option and is preferred by most players in the field. You can encounter an excellent flight performance from YONEX Mavis Shuttlecocks.

Hybrid shuttlecock: 

  • As the name suggests, it is the mix between two other types. It is a mixture of plastic and feather shuttlecock. 
  • This concept has been introduced recently, which is why it is seen in a small number. It is constructed so that the ends are that of a goose feather, and the frame is made of synthetic material. 
  • This goes without saying that hybrid shuttlecocks are more brittle than feather ones. 
  • This means that the prices are quite affordable due to reasonable manufacturing costs that give people an opportunity to play with a better quality product but at a lower price. 
  • The negatives here can be seen that the flight path and control could be better than the feather ones. 

Here are a few recommended hybrid badminton shuttlecocks.

Babolat Hybrid Badminton Shuttlecock 

This shuttle comes with a cork head and top-quality nylon features, making it durable equipment to buy. You can experience the features of durability, stability, and precision that make you improve the game to a greater extent. 

Babolat Hybrid Badminton Shuttlecock 

  • If you check out the online sites, one thing that can be observed is the shuttlecock’s speed. If this confuses you, read further to understand better what these shuttlecocks’ speed means. 
  • If the description says that the speed is 78, it indicates that it is the best one to buy. Speed 78 shuttlecock is the most popular one.
  • There are a lot of factors that are involved when one chooses a shuttlecock. Seeing the length of the court and the force plays a significant part, as it can affect gaming. 
  • The slow shuttle speed will decelerate faster and won’t reach the standard length when seen with the other shuttles. The exact opposite happens with the fast shuttle because the speed will make it travel much faster when a shot is hit, and the length it will travel will be much further.
  • The speed of these shuttlecocks ranges between the numbers of 75-79. As you can guess, if the number is less, then the shuttlecock is relatively slow, and if it is larger, the speed is faster. 
  • In the court, three factors can affect the entire game: temperature, humidity, and altitude. These things cannot be handled as it depends on the locations where the match is being held. Even though there are these speeds that the shuttlecocks are known to possess due to such conditions, they can change accordingly.

Speed of the badminton shuttlecocks 

65- Slow 

This is used at an altitude that is above sea level. The degree it is suitable for is above 30, which is very hot. Professionals rarely use it, and its popularity across the globe is relatively less 

76- Quite slow 

It is used for sea level altitude in matches. This speed of the shuttlecock is used for a degree that ranges between 25 to 30, which is a hot temperature. It is not seen that often in the game, which is why it is a rare occurrence 

77- Average speed 

This, too, is seen at a sea-level altitude. The temperature here is seen as average, which is between 15 to 25 degrees. It is not as rare and is sometimes seen being used in games 

78- Quite fast 

They are used for altitudes that are below sea level. This shuttle is utilized in the cold degree range from 0-15 degrees. It is the most popular one that players from across the globe use 

79 – Fast 

The badminton shuttlecock is used in altitudes that go below sea level. It is used in places that have very cold that goes below freezing degree. This shuttle is also rarely used by players 

Purchase your shuttlecock using these guidelines, as it will aid you in getting your game even better. Choosing online sites to get this is the best option to go for as they give a detailed description of the product, which can help you read the things that were written above in the product description of the site for better understanding. Bring your A-game with the right shuttlecock while playing.

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