Manchester United Post Fifth Straight Year of Losses Despite Record Revenues

Manchester United Post Fifth Straight Year of Losses Despite Record Revenues

Manchester United’s financial woes continued in the 2023/24 season, with the club posting net losses of £113.2 million ($148 million) despite record revenues. This marks the fifth consecutive year of losses for the Premier League giants.

The club’s revenues reached a record £661.8 million, a 2.1% increase from the previous year. This growth was primarily driven by record commercial and matchday revenues. However, United incurred exceptional costs of £47.8 million, largely related to Jim Ratcliffe’s purchase of a minority stake in the club.

On the pitch, United endured a disappointing season, finishing eighth in the Premier League and exiting the Champions League at the group stage. However, Erik ten Hag’s team managed to salvage some pride by winning the FA Cup, defeating Manchester City in the final.

In response to the club’s financial and on-field struggles, United have embarked on a major backroom shake-up. Omar Berrada, poached from Manchester City, has been appointed as the new chief executive.

“We are all extremely focused on working collectively to create a bright future with football success at the heart of it,” said Berrada. “We are working towards greater financial sustainability and making changes to our operations to make them more efficient.”

United’s financial situation is further complicated by the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability rules, which allow a maximum loss of £105 million over a three-season period. However, certain losses, such as infrastructure, youth team, and women’s team spending, are deemed “allowable.”

Everton and Nottingham Forest were both penalized with points deductions last season for breaching these rules. United, who have started the new Premier League season with two defeats in three matches, will need to improve their on-field performance and financial management to avoid similar sanctions.

Mbappe Rejects Mediation in PSG Wage Dispute

Mbappe Rejects Mediation in PSG Wage Dispute

Kylian Mbappe’s ongoing dispute with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) over unpaid wages and bonuses has taken a new turn, with the striker’s entourage rejecting the French football league’s (LFP) offer to mediate.

Mbappe claims PSG owes him a substantial sum of 55 million euros ($60.6m), which the club disputes. The amount includes a signing bonus, three months of salary, and an “ethical bonus.”

On Wednesday, lawyers representing both parties met with the LFP’s legal committee. The league proposed mediation to resolve the issue, but Mbappe’s entourage declined. They argued that mediation would be futile since the unpaid wages are evident from the player’s payslip.

PSG, on the other hand, welcomed the mediation proposal. The club emphasized Mbappe’s public and private commitments to the team and the unprecedented benefits he has received during his seven years in Paris.

The LFP has now invited Mbappe to reconsider the mediation process. However, it remains unclear whether the striker will accept.

The dispute has cast a shadow over Mbappe’s departure from PSG to Real Madrid this summer. The French international has been one of the most sought-after players in the world, and his move to Madrid was seen as a major coup for the Spanish giants.

The outcome of the dispute could have significant implications for both Mbappe and PSG. If Mbappe is successful in his claim, it could set a precedent for other players to demand unpaid wages. For PSG, it could damage their reputation and make it more difficult to attract top talent in the future.

Stimac: India Missed Opportunity Under My Leadership

Stimac: India Missed Opportunity Under My Leadership

Igor Stimac, the former head coach of the Indian national football team, has expressed his disappointment over the team’s recent performances under new coach Manolo Marquez. Stimac, who was sacked in June after India failed to qualify for the third round of the World Cup qualifiers, believes that the team has missed an opportunity to progress under his leadership.

“The future will show how right I was,” Stimac said. “I was clear about what needs to be done to get in a good place but not many who run football cared.”

Stimac pointed to the team’s impressive performances during his tenure, including winning three successive tournaments at home in 2023 and taking Iraq to penalties in the World Cup qualifiers. However, he believes that the team’s progress was hindered by a lack of support from the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Indian Super League (ISL) clubs.

“We played some wonderful games and I had a wonderful time with the players many of whom still keep in touch,” Stimac said. “But obviously when it was most needed, these people didn’t want to sacrifice a few weeks of ISL for the national team.”

Stimac also criticized the intensity of the ISL, which he believes is not sufficient to prepare players for international football.

“The intensity of ISL is not even 50% of intensity of international football,” Stimac said. “And there are no foreign players to help. So, you are put in a situation where you cannot do well.”

Stimac believes that the team’s recent struggles are a result of these factors and that the AIFF and ISL clubs need to do more to support the national team.

“And after each reversal, supporters will criticize either players or the coach,” Stimac said. “That is not where they should be pointing fingers.”

Ronaldo Slams Ten Hag, Calls for United Rebuild

Ronaldo Slams Ten Hag, Calls for United Rebuild

Cristiano Ronaldo has launched a scathing attack on Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, criticizing his mindset and approach. The Portuguese forward, who left United on poor terms in 2022, believes the club needs to rebuild everything, including the manager.

Ronaldo’s criticism stems from United’s underwhelming performances under ten Hag. The Red Devils failed to qualify for the Champions League last season and have started the current Premier League campaign with two losses in three matches.

In an interview with Rio Ferdinand, Ronaldo said: “They need to rebuild everything, in my opinion. The coach, they say they cannot compete to win the League and Champions League. Manchester United coach, you cannot say that you’re not going to fight to win the League or Champions League. You have to be, to mentally say, listen, maybe we don’t have that potential, but I cannot say that. We’re going to try. You have to try.”

Ronaldo also suggested that ten Hag should seek assistance from Ruud van Nistelrooy, who recently joined United’s coaching staff. “If ten Hag listens to Ruud, maybe he can (help himself). I think it can help a lot because he knows the club and the club should listen (to) the guys who were there,” he said.

The 39-year-old superstar emphasized the importance of having former players with knowledge of the club involved in decision-making. “The people who understand the football, it was, 99 per cent is the people who were there in the dressing room. They know how to deal with the players. It’s the people who understand these things. So I believe that Ruud is going to help because he was inside the club. He knows the club. He knows the fans. If the coach listens to him, I think they can improve a little bit the club,” he said.

Ronaldo’s comments highlight the growing frustration among United fans over the club’s recent struggles. The Red Devils have spent heavily in the transfer market in recent years, but have failed to produce results on the field.

Benzema Responds to Ronaldo's Snub with Subtle Dig

Benzema Responds to Ronaldo’s Snub with Subtle Dig

Karim Benzema, the reigning Ballon d’Or winner, has subtly responded to Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent snub on social media. Ronaldo, during an interview with Rio Ferdinand on his YouTube channel, surprisingly chose Real Madrid’s new signing Kylian Mbappe over Benzema when asked to pick between the two.

Benzema and Ronaldo were a formidable duo at Real Madrid, winning four Champions League titles together. However, Benzema often played in Ronaldo’s shadow. After Ronaldo’s departure, Benzema flourished as the main man in Madrid’s attack, leading them to another Champions League triumph in 2021-22.

Ronaldo’s choice on Ferdinand’s show stunned many fans, who were surprised that he would snub Benzema, with whom he shared a close relationship at Santiago Bernabeu. Benzema has now taken a subtle dig at Ronaldo by posting a photo of himself holding the 2022 Ballon d’Or on his Instagram story.

In a recent interview, Benzema spoke about his passion for football and how it has shaped his mindset. “I’ve felt this pressure since I was eight years old, when I first started playing for a professional club,” he said. “Over time, it has transformed into ambition. For this upcoming season, I view it not as pressure but as ambition.”

Benzema’s response to Ronaldo’s snub shows that he is not afraid to stand up for himself. He has proven his worth as a world-class striker, and he is determined to continue to excel for Real Madrid.

Cristiano Ronaldo's YouTube Channel Breaks Records, Earns Millions

Ronaldo Says Mbappé Can Win Ballon d’Or at Madrid

Cristiano Ronaldo has once again taken the spotlight, this time not for his own achievements but for his praise of Kylian Mbappé, the French prodigy who recently joined Real Madrid. In a candid discussion on his new YouTube channel, ​Ronaldo expressed his firm belief that Mbappé has the potential to be a future Ballon d’Or winner while representing Los Blancos.​

Speaking about Mbappé, Ronaldo noted, “I think he will do well. The structure of the club is nice, good and solid.” The former Madrid superstar emphasized that with the right environment at the Santiago Bernabéu, surrounding Mbappé will only enhance his abilities. Having achieved the prestigious Ballon d’Or five times himself, Ronaldo’s endorsement carries significant weight.

Notably, this season has been a mixed bag for Mbappé, who initially struggled to find the back of the net in his early La Liga appearances. However, Ronaldo remains optimistic. “I don’t think it’ll be a big issue for him, because his talent has shown everything capable to do it,” he stated. The legendary striker believes that under the guidance of Madrid’s great coach and the long-standing leadership of president Florentino Pérez, Mbappé will thrive in a way that could very well see him lift the coveted golden ball.

Ronaldo is not just betting on Mbappé; he included fellow rising stars like Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham in his praise, noting, “This new generation has a lot of potential.” Given the competitive landscape of contemporary football, the race for the Ballon d’Or is more intense than ever, but Ronaldo’s faith in Mbappé’s abilities positions him as a strong contender.

 

Paul Pogba Kidnapping Case: Six Indicted, Including Brother Mathias

Paul Pogba Kidnapping Case: Six Indicted, Including Brother Mathias

French footballer Paul Pogba’s alleged kidnapping and extortion case has taken a significant turn with the indictment of six individuals, including his brother Mathias Pogba. The trial, scheduled to commence soon, stems from a two-year investigation into the high-profile incident that unfolded in 2022.

According to Paris prosecutors, five individuals close to Pogba meticulously planned a meeting in the Paris suburbs on March 19, 2022. The meeting culminated in Pogba’s kidnapping by two unidentified men who demanded a staggering 13 million euros ($14 million).

Mathias Pogba, a former striker himself, was not present at the meeting but is accused of pressuring his younger brother to pay the ransom. Prosecutors allege that Mathias Pogba acted with the same determination as the other suspects in extorting money from Paul Pogba.

All six defendants have denied their involvement, claiming they were victims of armed robbers and were assaulted after Paul Pogba refused to pay. However, prosecutors have charged the three childhood friends and two former acquaintances who were present on the night with extortion, illegal restraint, and criminal conspiracy.

The investigation was initiated after Paul Pogba filed a complaint with Italian prosecutors, alleging that he was the target of a multi-million-euro blackmail plot. Pogba claimed that his blackmailers threatened to discredit him by falsely accusing him of using a witch doctor to cast a spell on fellow French star Kylian Mbappe.

French prosecutors launched a joint investigation in September 2022, involving the anti-gang and central crime units of the French police. During the investigation, Paul Pogba admitted to providing financial assistance to members of the group but later refused to pay seven million euros to three of them in September 2021.

In late September 2022, Mathias Pogba posted a series of incriminating videos on social media, accusing his brother of abandoning their family. The videos followed an earlier video in which Mathias Pogba promised to reveal “great revelations” about his brother.

During the investigation, Mathias Pogba expressed fear for his safety and that of his family, claiming he had been manipulated by the other suspects. He expressed hope for reconciliation with his younger brother.

The trial is expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the alleged kidnapping and extortion, as well as the involvement of the six defendants. The outcome of the trial will have significant implications for the reputation and career of Paul Pogba, one of the most renowned footballers in the world.

Harry Kane Celebrates 100th England Cap with Stunning Brace

Harry Kane Celebrates 100th England Cap with Stunning Brace

Harry Kane’s remarkable career reached a new milestone as he celebrated his 100th England cap with a stunning brace against Finland in the Nations League. The Tottenham Hotspur striker’s goals sealed a 2-0 victory for the Three Lions at Wembley Stadium.

Kane’s first goal came in the 58th minute, as he received a pass from Trent Alexander-Arnold and unleashed a blistering strike that cannoned into the net off the underside of the crossbar. His second goal followed in the 76th minute, with Noni Madueke setting up the striker for a clinical finish from close range.

The goals marked Kane’s 68th and 69th for England, moving him closer to Wayne Rooney’s record of 120. Kane is now the third England player to score on their 100th appearance, joining Rooney and Bobby Charlton.

England’s interim manager, Lee Carsley, praised Kane’s performance, saying, “His finishing is very good, even in training. It’s not a surprise when he scores goals as his habits are so good.”

Carsley also oversaw a 2-0 victory against Ireland in his first game in charge on Saturday, making him the first England manager to win his first two competitive games since Fabio Capello in 2008.

Carsley’s attacking game-plan has been a stark contrast to his predecessor Gareth Southgate’s conservative tactics. The former England Under-21 coach gave a first Three Lions start to Lille midfielder Angel Gomes, who made a solid impact, while Chelsea winger Madueke set up Kane’s second goal after coming off the bench for his debut.

Kane’s performance was a reminder of his enduring quality and his ability to inspire his teammates. The striker has shown no signs of slowing down, and he remains one of the most feared forwards in world football.

AIFF Launches Inquiry into Stimac Contract Renewal, Settles Compensation

AIFF Launches Inquiry into Stimac Contract Renewal, Settles Compensation

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has initiated an independent inquiry into the contract renewal procedures of former head coach Igor Stimac. The decision came after the AIFF and Stimac reached a USD 400,000 compensation settlement for terminating his contract.

During the AIFF’s Annual General Body meeting, members expressed concerns about the renewal, termination, and settlement of Stimac’s contract. They called for an investigation into the internal procedures and personnel involved in the 2023 contract renewal, which was allegedly done on “unapproved and unfavorable terms.”

Stimac had initially filed a claim of USD 920,000 before the FIFA Football Tribunal. However, he eventually reached a full and final settlement with the AIFF. The AIFF noted that the 2023 contract renewal left the federation in a “compromised negotiating position,” leading to significant financial detriment.

Stimac was sacked in June 2023, a year before his contract was set to expire. The decision followed India’s elimination from the second round of FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. The sacking sparked a public dispute between Stimac and the AIFF, with the Croatian threatening legal action.

Sources within the AIFF have revealed that the initial contract with Stimac included a severance clause providing for a three-month notice period. However, the later contract (signed in October 2023) did not have this clause, creating complications for the AIFF in terminating Stimac’s contract.

Former AIFF Secretary General Shaji Prabhakaran claimed that the contract extension without a severance clause was “approved” by president Kalyan Chaubey. However, Chaubey denied this assertion, stating that he was not informed about the contract signing.

The AIFF also expressed concerns about a former employee, who no longer holds any positions in Indian football, continuing to represent the federation in various committees of the South Asian Football Federation and Asian Football Confederation. The members requested the AIFF Executive Committee to take action to curtail such practices.

Meanwhile, the Indian national team is set to establish a permanent address for high-altitude training camps at the newly launched stadium in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. The location, situated at 10,000 feet above sea level, is considered ideal for acclimatizing the squad for international competitions.

Additionally, the AIFF Executive Committee proposed to include the India U-20 men’s national team in the I-League competition. The move aims to provide the team with competitive game time and maintain match fitness throughout the year. The India U20 team will be exempt from promotion-relegation.

Cristiano Ronaldo Hails Real Madrid as “Best Club Ever”

Cristiano Ronaldo, the legendary Portuguese footballer, has expressed his unwavering admiration for his former club, Real Madrid, in a recent interview on his YouTube channel. Ronaldo, who spent nine illustrious seasons at the Santiago Bernabeu, hailed Real Madrid as the “best club ever in the history of football.”

During his time with Real Madrid, Ronaldo established himself as the club’s all-time leading scorer, winning four UEFA Champions League titles, including an unprecedented three-peat from 2015-16 to 2017-18. Reflecting on his experiences, Ronaldo praised Real Madrid’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure.

“Real Madrid looking very good, they are a kind of time who don’t rush under pressure,” Ronaldo said. “People say they are lucky in Champions League, no they aren’t lucky. They prepare for these kind of moments. Bernabeu, it has a different aura, the energy is different. When the big teams go there, they score a goal, and in the 85th or 90th minute, they feel the pressure.”

Ronaldo also commented on the potential impact of Kylian Mbappe’s arrival at Real Madrid, acknowledging the Frenchman’s talent but expressing uncertainty about whether it would make the team stronger than last season. “We don’t know whether Madrid will be better than last year after Kylian Mbappe’s arrival, but they are a strong team,” he added.

In addition to his praise for Real Madrid, Ronaldo also discussed the recent retirement of his former teammate Toni Kroos. “Kroos retirement? It’s the way he sees it; we have to respect him. I respect his decision. He could play a few years more, but that’s his decision,” Ronaldo said.

Ronaldo’s comments underscore his enduring affection for Real Madrid and his belief in their continued dominance in European football. The Portuguese superstar’s legacy at the club remains unmatched, and his admiration for his former team is a testament to the special bond he forged during his time in the Spanish capital.

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