AIFF to Pay Two Years' Salary to Marquez if Sacked for Poor Performance

AIFF to Pay Two Years’ Salary to Marquez if Sacked for Poor Performance

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has agreed to pay two years’ salary to Manolo Marquez if he is sacked for poor performance before May 31, 2026. This is a significant departure from the previous contract with Igor Stimac, which did not include a termination clause favorable to AIFF.

Marquez, who was appointed as the senior national team head coach from August 1, 2024 to May 31, 2026, will receive a total salary of $407,000 (approximately ₹3.4 crore) during his tenure. The AIFF will be obligated to pay the remaining balance if Marquez is removed before May 2026 for reasons other than misconduct or material breach of contract.

This clause was requested by Marquez, who was leaving a secure position at FC Goa to take up the role with the national team. The AIFF agreed to this request as a safeguard for Marquez, who is leaving a guaranteed contract with FC Goa.

The terms of Marquez’s contract are similar to those of Stimac’s contracts after October 2022. However, Stimac’s previous contracts included a clause that required AIFF to pay his salary for three months as compensation if he was removed. This clause was removed when Stimac’s contract was renewed in 2022 and was not included in the extension he signed in October 2023.

Stimac, who was sacked last June after India failed to make the third round of World Cup qualification, has filed a complaint with FIFA seeking compensation for the rest of his contract till June 2026. AIFF had argued that Stimac’s contract should have included a termination clause favorable to AIFF.

“There is a difference in the two cases,” said Satyanarayan Muthyalu, then acting secretary-general of AIFF. “In Manolo’s case, he had a contract with a club (FC Goa) for two years which he is leaving so that is a minimum safeguard that any coach will ask for.”

Marquez’s first assignment with the national team will be the Intercontinental Cup, which begins in Hyderabad on Tuesday. India will play Mauritius and Syria in the tournament.

NorthEast United FC Triumphs in Durand Cup, Defeats Mohun Bagan in Penalty Shootout

NorthEast United FC Triumphs in Durand Cup, Defeats Mohun Bagan in Penalty Shootout

NorthEast United FC etched its name in the annals of Indian football history by capturing the coveted Durand Cup trophy for the first time in its decade-long existence. The Highlanders overcame the formidable challenge of Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the tournament’s defending champions and Asia’s oldest club, in a thrilling penalty shootout.

The match, played at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, witnessed a dramatic turnaround in the second half. Mohun Bagan dominated the opening period, establishing a two-goal lead through Jason Cummings’ penalty and Sahal Abdul Samad’s strike. However, NorthEast United, inspired by coach Juan Pedro Benali’s tactical adjustments, fought back valiantly after the break.

Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie ignited the Highlanders’ comeback with a stunning right-footed shot in the 55th minute, catching Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith off guard. Three minutes later, substitute Guillermo Fernandez volleyed home a pinpoint cross from Ajaraie to level the scores.

With no extra time allotted, the match went straight to a penalty shootout. NorthEast United goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh Chahal emerged as the hero, making two crucial saves to deny Mohun Bagan. The Highlanders converted all four of their spot-kicks, securing a 4-3 victory and the coveted trophy.

The win marked a significant milestone for NorthEast United, which had never won a major trophy before. It was a testament to the team’s resilience, determination, and the tactical acumen of coach Benali. For Mohun Bagan, it was a heartbreaking defeat, but they can take solace in their impressive run to the final.

Individual awards were also presented at the ceremony. Gurmeet Singh Chahal was named the Golden Glove winner for his outstanding performance in the shootout. Kerala Blasters’ Noah Sadaoui claimed the Golden Boot with six goals, while NorthEast United’s Jithin M.S. received the Golden Ball for his exceptional assists.

Mohamed Salah: Liverpool Legend and Modern-Day Maestro

Mohamed Salah: Liverpool Legend and Modern-Day Maestro

Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian maestro, has etched his name among the Premier League’s elite. With over 300 goal contributions in just 350 games for Liverpool, Salah continues to mesmerize fans with his prolific scoring and creative brilliance.

Despite turning 32, Salah shows no signs of slowing down. Under the guidance of new manager Arne Slot, he remains a pivotal figure for Liverpool, guiding the club through a transitional period. In a recent interview with Star Sports, Salah shared his insights on various aspects of his career and life.

Salah’s consistency is a testament to his unwavering dedication. “I try to focus on my career and do the right things all the time,” he said. “I enjoy my football because this is what I love to do.”

The arrival of Darwin Nunez has added a new dimension to Liverpool’s attack. Salah praised Nunez’s unique qualities, saying, “He loves the ball in space and likes to do different things. He knows I really look for that.”

Salah’s versatility is another key factor in his success. “I always try to do both [score and assist],” he said. “I think most of the years I’ve been here in Liverpool, I’ve scored goals and assisted more than anyone in the same year.”

Off the pitch, Salah is an avid chess player. “I like Kasparov and Bobby Fischer, but I would say the best could be Magnus,” he said. He also enjoys online chess, but keeps his identity a secret.

When asked about his favorite celebration, Salah chose the yoga pose. “I was watching the UFC,” he explained. “My father was watching the UFC, and I think Pereira was fighting that night and lost. And yeah, someone actually did a celebration for him.”

Salah’s admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo is evident. “When I was growing up, I loved Ronaldo,” he said. “I would say [he is] my dream strike partner.”

For his Indian fans, Salah expressed his gratitude. “Thank you very much for your support,” he said. “It means a lot to us. Keep supporting us because we really love India.”

Argentine Rookie Colapinto Brushes Off Messi Comparisons Ahead of F1 Debut

Argentine Rookie Colapinto Brushes Off Messi Comparisons Ahead of F1 Debut

Argentine rookie Franco Colapinto is set to make his Formula One debut at the Italian Grand Prix this weekend, becoming the first driver from his country to compete in the sport in over two decades. Colapinto will replace Logan Sargeant at Williams, who has struggled this season.

Despite the excitement surrounding his debut, Colapinto has downplayed comparisons to football legend Lionel Messi, who is considered one of the greatest players of all time.

“It’s very difficult to feel as Lionel Messi, I don’t know how it is to feel that,” Colapinto said. “But sometimes I see that they compare me and I’m like, you guys are crazy, like Messi is God, it’s like you cannot, how are you comparing me?”

Colapinto has set modest expectations for his debut, acknowledging that Williams has had a challenging season.

“I am not expecting much… I just want to go step by step, I want to focus on myself,” he said. “That’s the main thing I think. To be able to be focused on my job. To be able to do what the team expects. And I am, to be honest, more than sure that I can do it.”

Colapinto’s debut will be a significant moment for Argentine motorsport, and he is eager to make the most of the opportunity.

“I’m very excited to be here, to be honest,” he said. “It’s a dream come true. I’ve been working for this for my whole life, so it’s a very special moment for me.”

The Italian Grand Prix will take place at the iconic Monza circuit, which is known for its high speeds and challenging layout. Colapinto will have two practice sessions on Friday to familiarize himself with the track before qualifying on Saturday and the race on Sunday.

Messi's Absence Makes Argentina 'Stronger,' Says Mac Allister

Messi might play in 2026 FIFA World Cup, says teammate

Argentinian football star Lionel Messi’s potential participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup has become a hot topic, especially following remarks from his teammate Alexis Mac Allister. This news not only stirs excitement among football fans but also highlights the camaraderie within the Argentine national team.

​In a recent statement, Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister expressed strong confidence that Lionel Messi will be a part of the national team in the upcoming World Cup.​ He shared, “If you ask my feelings, yes. I think he will be there,” speaking to Messi’s enduring skill and passion for the game. Mac Allister’s belief reflects not just his optimism but also a broader sentiment within the team.

Messi himself has been non-committal but open about his future. He stated that his decision to play in the World Cup will depend on his physical state and level of play at that time. With the tournament occurring when he turns 39, the forward wisely acknowledges that age and physical condition will influence his ability to compete effectively.

The Argentine squad has been vocal about their desire for Messi to remain involved. Mac Allister and other teammates have reportedly urged Messi to continue contributing to the team, reinforcing the significant role he plays not only as a player but also as a leader and mentor on the field. This camaraderie is essential for team morale as they aim to build on their recent successes.

The prospect of Messi playing in 2026 sparks memories of his illustrious career, including the triumphant 2022 World Cup victory. The chance to witness Messi extend his legacy further is a thrilling thought for fans around the world. His unique flair and tactical brilliance are qualities that any team would wish for, making his potential return something to anticipate eagerly.

As the football world gears up for another thrilling edition of the World Cup, Messi’s future remains a tantalizing question. The conversations about his involvement cultivate a sense of hope among fans, teammates, and even Messi himself. His journey in the sport is far from over, and the 2026 World Cup could very well be a culminating chapter in his storied career.

Fans are encouraged to share their thoughts and excitement about Messi’s possible participation. This engagement not only connects supporters to the team but also reinforces the legacy that players like Messi have built through their contributions to the sport. As the countdown to the World Cup begins, the football community stands united in anticipation of thrilling matches and unforgettable moments.

UEFA Champions League Draw to Unveil New Format for 2024-25 Season

UEFA Champions League Draw to Unveil New Format for 2024-25 Season

The UEFA Champions League, the pinnacle of European club football, is set to undergo a significant transformation with the introduction of a new format for the 2024-25 season. The draw for the revamped competition will take place in Monaco on Thursday, August 24th, and it promises to be a captivating event.

The most notable change is the expansion of the tournament from 32 to 36 teams. This will provide an additional berth for the fifth-ranked European league, as determined by UEFA’s coefficient rankings. As a result, Ligue 1 will now have three automatic qualifiers, joining the likes of the Premier League, La Liga, and Serie A.

The new format will see the 36 clubs divided into one single league, known as the “Swiss system.” Each team will play eight matches, one against each of their eight opponents. This will result in a total of 114 group stage games, up from 96 in the previous format.

To ensure fairness, the teams will be seeded into four pots of nine based on their UEFA coefficients. Each team will face two opponents from each pot, one at home and one away. Additionally, no team will be drawn against another club from the same domestic league, and each club can only face a maximum of two teams from any one country.

The top 16 teams in the league phase will automatically qualify for the round of 16. The remaining eight teams, finishing from ninth to 24th, will enter a playoff round. These teams will be paired off in two-legged knockout ties, with the winners advancing to the round of 16.

The playoff ties will also be seeded, with the higher-ranked teams facing the lower-ranked teams. This will ensure that the most competitive matches are played in the later stages of the competition.

The new format is designed to increase the number of high-quality matches and provide more opportunities for teams from smaller leagues to compete at the highest level. It is also expected to generate additional revenue for UEFA and the participating clubs.

A cup of 2023 UEFE Champions Leauge Final

​UEFA Champions League: Things to know about new format

The UEFA Champions League draw for the 2024/25 season is almost here, and excitement is in the air! This isn’t just another event on the football calendar; it’s a moment that brings fans even in the comfort of their homes together to share in the thrill of what’s to come. With fresh competition formats and highly-anticipated matchups, this draw promises to be unforgettable.

Mark your calendars! The draw will take place on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at the stunning Grimaldi Forum in Monaco. It kicks off at 6 p.m. local time (9:30 p.m. IST), and you can feel the electricity buzzing all around, especially among die-hard supporters who live and breathe their clubs. 

This season is unlike any other, as the traditional group stage makes way for an exciting league phase with 36 teams battling it out. Each club is guaranteed eight matches against different opponents, meaning more thrilling action and fresh rivalries to savour. For the fans, it means more opportunities to see their beloved teams in action and fewer times staring at the calendar wishing for that next match day.

In a fascinating twist, this year’s draw will blend the excitement of the traditional ball-drawing method with modern technology. The tension building in the room as teams are manually drawn, followed by an automated system that assigns matchups. This fusion of old and new not only ensures fairness but amps up the thrill as clubs brace themselves for the unpredictable. The rules are simple: no teams from the same country can face each other initially, making for a colourful array of fixtures that will have fans on the edge of their seats.

As the draw approaches, the anticipation builds as fans think about which pot their teams are in. Clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester City are household names resting comfortably in Pot 1, while lesser-known teams dream of making a mark. Below is the complete list of all the pots and the teams in it.

Pot 1: Manchester City, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Liverpool, Inter Milan, Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig, Barcelona.

Pot 2: Bayer Leverkusen, Atlético Madrid, Atalanta, Juventus, Benfica, Arsenal, Club Brugge, Shakhtar Donetsk, AC Milan.

Pot 3: Feyenoord, Sporting Lisbon, PSV Eindhoven, Dinamo Zagreb, RB Salzburg, Lille, Red Star Belgrade, Young Boys, Celtic.

Pot 4: Slovan Bratislava, AS Monaco, Sparta Prague, Aston Villa, Bologna, Girona, Stuttgart, Sturm Graz, Brest.

Let’s be real—this draw is more than just numbers and pots; it’s personal. Fans have spent countless nights cheering for their teams, sharing highs and lows with family and friends. The thought of going head-to-head with historic rivals or underdog teams both brings excitement and a bit of nerve-wracking suspense. For supporters, it’s not just a game; it’s a cherished part of their lives, filled with stories, traditions, and pride.

Mbappé's Hacked Account Sparks Controversy with Cryptocurrency Promotion and Provocative Tweets

Mbappé’s Hacked Account Sparks Controversy with Cryptocurrency Promotion and Provocative Tweets

Kylian Mbappé’s social media account was hacked in the early morning hours while he was in Spain, leading to a series of bizarre and controversial tweets. The hacked account promoted a cryptocurrency called ‘$MBAPPE,’ claimed it had reached 90,000 sales, and made provocative statements about Manchester United and the rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

The tweets, which have since been deleted, raised eyebrows across the football community. The hacked account declared “Manchester is Red” and praised a popular United fan account, @UTDTrey. When asked about a potential move to London, the account responded, “London is s* bro.”

Another tweet saw a message in favor of Cristiano Ronaldo over Lionel Messi, calling Ronaldo “the greatest football player of all time” and insulting Messi with a derogatory term. This inflammatory post added fuel to the already intense discussions around the Ronaldo-Messi rivalry.

The launch of the ‘MBAPPE’ token also dominated social media for a brief period, with its market value soaring to tens of millions within minutes before abruptly crashing back to zero.

Criticism of Mbappé’s hacked account was swift and unforgiving. Several users condemned the absence of a timely response from his PR team.

Despite the social media storm, Mbappé has made an impressive start to his Real Madrid career, scoring a goal in the UEFA Super Cup victory over Atalanta. However, he has yet to find the back of the net in La Liga, sparking discussions on social media platforms.

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has downplayed concerns about Mbappé’s lack of goals, stating that he is “very happy” at the club and “sure he wants to score in the next game.”

Lionel Messi Nears Return to Action After Injury Layoff

Lionel Messi Nears Return to Action After Injury Layoff

Lionel Messi, the Argentine football legend, is nearing his return to competitive action after an injury layoff that has kept him out since July. The 35-year-old forward has been spotted training with his Inter Miami teammates, fueling speculation about his imminent comeback.

Messi suffered an ankle ligament injury during the second half of Argentina’s Copa America 2024 final victory over Colombia. He was forced to leave the field with the scores level at 0-0 and was visibly distressed. Lautaro Martinez eventually scored the winning goal in extra time to secure a 1-0 triumph.

Since then, Messi has been sidelined with the ankle injury. He missed Inter Miami’s recent matches and was not included in Argentina’s squad for their World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia.

Inter Miami head coach Tata Martino has provided an update on Messi’s recovery. “He is developing well,” Martino said. “It was foreseeable that he would not be with Argentina because he is not yet in a position to play, but we continue to see him develop. There is no estimate, because you are already starting to see how you feel as you add training on the field.”

Martino added that Messi is “feeling better and better” and has been training on the field for several days. “We cannot give time because we do not know and it would be speculating about something that may not be possible to do, but it is close,” Martino said.

Messi’s return will be a major boost for Inter Miami, who are currently 10th in the Eastern Conference of Major League Soccer. The Argentine superstar is expected to make his comeback before the end of the regular season, which concludes on October 9.

Liverpool's Nunez Banned for Five Matches After Copa America Brawl

Liverpool’s Nunez Banned for Five Matches After Copa America Brawl

Liverpool’s Darwin Nunez has been handed a five-match ban and a hefty fine by South American football governing body CONMEBOL for his involvement in a mass brawl during the Copa America semi-final between Uruguay and Colombia. The incident, which occurred at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, saw Nunez and several other players engage in a physical altercation with fans in the stands.

Nunez’s punishment is the most severe among the 11 players sanctioned by CONMEBOL. Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur received a four-match suspension, while defenders Mathias Olivera, Ronald Araujo, and Jose Maria Gimenez were each banned for three matches. The other players involved were fined varying amounts ranging from $5,000 to $16,000.

The Uruguayan Football Federation was also fined $20,000 for its role in the incident. CONMEBOL’s statement did not specify when the suspensions would begin, but they are expected to cover games organized by the confederation, excluding domestic competitions.

Uruguay is scheduled to play a friendly against Guatemala on Sunday before facing Paraguay and Venezuela in World Cup qualifiers on September 6 and 10, respectively. It remains unclear if Nunez and the other suspended players will be available for these matches.

Uruguay central defender Gimenez claimed that the players intervened in the melee to protect their family members and loved ones who were watching the game in the affected section of the stadium. However, CONMEBOL’s investigation concluded that the players’ actions were unacceptable and warranted punishment.

The suspensions and fines are open to appeal, but it is unclear if any of the affected parties will pursue this option. The incident has cast a shadow over the Copa America tournament and raised concerns about the safety of fans at football matches.

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart