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Luis Suarez Bows Out of International Football with Frustrating Draw

By Nilay September 7, 2024 0

Luis Suarez, the legendary Uruguayan striker, bid farewell to international football on Friday, September 6, 2024, as his team played to a frustrating 0-0 draw against Paraguay in South American 2026 World Cup qualifying.

Suarez, 37, had announced his retirement from international duty on Monday, September 2, 2024, after a glittering 17-year career for Uruguay. He finished as the country’s top scorer with 69 goals from 143 appearances.

However, the former Barcelona and Liverpool star, who now plays in Major League Soccer with Inter Miami, was unable to add a 70th goal to his international tally in his farewell game at the Estadio Centenario in Montevideo.

Despite enjoying 65% possession, Uruguay were unable to find a way through a dogged Paraguay defense in a disjointed match littered with 24 fouls. Suarez, whose career at international and club level was marred by controversies such as his ban for biting Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini at the 2014 World Cup, was one of four Uruguay players to be shown a yellow card in a fractious encounter.

The result leaves Uruguay in second place in South America’s 10-team round-robin qualifying tournament with 14 points from seven games, four points behind leaders Argentina. Colombia can leapfrog over Uruguay with a victory over Peru in Lima later Friday.

The top six teams in the South America standings qualify automatically for the 2026 finals in North America with the seventh-placed team advancing to a playoff.

Categories: Football

Mbappe's Madrid Debut Raises Balance Concerns for Ancelotti

Top 15 football summer transfers of 2024

By chevaliersports September 5, 2024 0

Finally, the transfer window has shut. And with that, all of us might have our list of yays and nays when it comes to transfers.

While Madrid fans will be ecstatic with the arrival of France sensation Kylian Mbappe and Brazilian wonderkid Endrick, Chelsea are seriously having a headache as to what to do with a squad boasting of 43 players. 43 effing players. Shocking right?

The summer of 2024 has been an eventful one for the football world. While there are way too many arrivals (pun intended) there are few players who have to depart to a different club in search of 💰 or more playing time.

In this article, we will be looking at the top 15 summer transfers that have taken place in the football world in 2024.

Top 15 football summer transfers of 2024

Julian Alvarez (Manchester City to Atletico Madrid)

Argentina’s Julian Alvarez, who played second fiddle to Erling Haaland during his time at Manchester City; wanted to have more playing time. And this season, the midfielder received a bid from Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid who are going through a transition phase.

With a dismal performance coming from Simeone’s squad last season, it was high time they looked for a striker who could land them goals (in dozens). And Alvarez seemed to be a perfect fit. Atletico Madrid announced the arrival of Alvarez from Manchester City in a deal worth £82m (€95m).

Conor Gallagher (Chelsea to Atletico Madrid)

Enzo Maresca’s arrival at Chelsea meant trouble for many. Ex-Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher was one of the many players leaving Stamford Bridge. The Blues midfielder found a new home at 2020-21 La Liga champions Atletico Madrid.

Atlético Madrid completed the signing of midfielder Conor Gallagher from Chelsea in a deal worth around €40 million ($44m). With this signing, Atletico has strengthened their midfield comprising Koke, Rodrigo de Paul, Thomas Lemar, and Marcos Llorente.

Leny Yoro (Lille to Manchester United)

Manchester United had a busy summer. After securing the services of Joshua Zirkzee, the Red Devils beat Spanish giants Real Madrid to get France’s Leny Yoro to Old Trafford.

The center-back moved to the Red Devils in a deal worth £52m plus add-ons. This might seem a very big amount considering the youngster’s age. However, the French center-back is being considered as one of the best teenagers in the football world.

Kylian Mbappe (PSG to Real Madrid)

One of the most anticipated transfers of this season finally happened after a lot of controversy. Kylian Mbappe followed his idol’s footsteps (no points for the right guesses). The 2018 World Cup winner joined 2023-24 UEFA Champions League winners Real Madrid on a free transfer.

Mbappé, 25, signed a five-year contract at the club after leaving Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer. Madrid president Florentina Perez had been seeking the France captain’s signature since the 2018 FIFA World Cup; the first time Mbappe broke on the international stage. But things couldn’t materialize somehow.

However, now that he has joined his dream club, will the Frenchmen be able to emulate his idol’s success at the club?

Endrick (Palmeiras to Real Madrid)

Real Madrid needs to be credited for their smart transfer business. After getting Kylian Mbappe at the club, the La Liga giants decided to bring Brazilian wonderkid Endrick to Santiago Bernabeu.

Madrid agreed a deal to sign forward Endrick from Palmeiras in December 2022, but the prospect could not formally join the club until his 18th birthday on July 21, 2024.

Dani Olmo (RB Leipzig to Barcelona)

After helping his country lift the Euro 2024 trophy, Dani Olmo has decided to join the boyhood club, Barcelona. The Catalans who had shown interest in the La Masia graduate finally secured the player this transfer season.

The La Liga giants have reportedly sent an offer worth €62 million (£53 million) with a €55 million (£47 million) initial fee and €7 million (£6 million) in add-ons. The midfielder has agreed to sign a six-year contract with Barcelona.

Dominic Solanke (Bournemouth to Tottenham Hotspurs)

Seems like Harry Kane’s move to Bayern Munich has seriously affected Tottenham. The perennial underachievers of the Premier League have failed to convert their attacks into goals. The failure of Richarlison and the constant injury problems of Heung Min Son have put additional pressure on the club.

The North London club has decided to fill the void of a consistent striker by bringing Bournemouth’s goal-scoring machine Dominic Solanke to the club. As per the deal, Solanke cost a total of £65m for the Spurs. The deal will see Spurs pay an initial £55m with £10m possible to follow in bonuses.

Pedro Neto (Wolves to Chelsea)

Chelsea are going berserk at the transfer window this season. Could you believe they have a squad boasting a total of 9 goalkeepers? Wonder what the football pundits have to say about this!!

After signing a total of 13 players this season, the move of Pedro Neto from Wolverhampton Wanderers to the Blues has met with an amazing response from the fans.

As for the numbers, Pedro Neto has completed his move to Chelsea from Wolves; the Blues will pay £51.4m upfront plus £2.6m in add-ons.

Federico Chiesa (Juventus to Liverpool)

The Arne Slot era at Anfield has begun. After deciding to not do any summer signings (unusual by a club of their standards), Liverpool decided to make a late entry into the transfer window.

Chiesa, the Italian starboy who lit up the Euro 2020 stage with his amazing dribbling skills, decided to make a move into the Premier League. The former Juventus player signed a three-year deal worth €13M; which seems to be a bargain for the 2019-20 Premier League winners.

Manuel Ugarte (PSG to Manchester United)

The lack of powerhouse midfielders has been hurting Manchester United for the past few seasons. Yes, skipper Bruno Fernandes has been holding the fort quite well for the Red Devils. But the need for more players like him is needed at Old Trafford.

And the Red Devils have pinned their hopes on Manuel Ugarte. The Uruguayan international, who plays for Paris St. Germain has arrived at Manchester United. The club shelled out €50 million to secure his services; who was a top target for manager Erik Ten Hag.

Ivan Toney (Brentford to Al-Ahli)

After being linked to a move to Chelsea, Brentford star Ivan Toney has decided to try his luck at the Saudi Pro League. The Englishman has decided to join the Middle East club for a stunning move to Al-Ahli that cost €42M on the deadline day. At Al-Ahli, Toney will earn a staggering £403,000-a-week including bonuses. It means Toney will earn more than 13 times the £36,000-a-week wage he picked up at Brentford.

Matthijs de Ligt (Bayern Munich to Manchester United)

Erik Ten Hag’s Manchester United have bolstered their defense with the addition of Matthijs de Ligt. The former Juventus and Bayern Munich player has signed a contract until June 2029, with the option to extend for a further year.

The Netherlands international has signed a deal worth a combined £60 million ($76.6m) including add-ons.

The news will surely boost the hopes of United fans who want to make a return to UEFA Champions League football.

Joao Neves (Benfica to PSG)

After a lot of helter-skelter, Benfica star Joao Neves has confirmed a move to Paris St. Germain.

The young Portuguese player has joined PSG for a five-year deal worth €60 million.

Considered one of the hottest properties in the football world, Neves will surely try his best to win the first-ever Champions League for the Ligue 1 champions.

Michael Olise (Crystal Palace to Bayern Munich)

Looks like last year’s dismal Bundesliga season has made Bayern Munich head back straight to the drawing board and strengthen its squad. To get back to winning ways, the German champions have signed Michael Olise from Crystal Palace.

The Bundesliga side will pay £50.8m (€60m) including add-ons to bring the 22-year-old to the Allianz Arena.

Joao Felix (Atletico Madrid to Chelsea)

After Romelu Lukaku, the only player who can claim to have an amazing agent is Portugal’s Joao Felix. After doing back and forth between Atletico Madrid and Chelsea, the winger has finally decided to move back to Stamford Bridge for a seven-year deal worth €50 million.

Other Notable Mentions:

Jadon Sancho (Manchester United to Chelsea)

Victor Osimhein (Napoli to Galatasaray)

Douglas Luiz (Aston Villa to Juventus)

Mats Hummels (Borrusia Dortmund to AS Roma)

So, that’s it. That’s our list of the top 15 summer transfers in football that we feel might be game-changers this season. Were you satisfied with your club’s transfer strategy this season? Comment down below who you think should be bought and who should be sold at your favourite club.

Categories: Football, Sports360

Kolkata’s Footballing Giants Unite in Historic ISL Debut

By Nilay September 4, 2024 0

Kolkata, the birthplace of Indian football, is set to witness a historic moment as three of its oldest and most iconic clubs—Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, and Mohammedan Sporting—will compete in the Indian Super League (ISL) for the first time together.

Mohammedan Sporting, founded in 1891, will join Mohun Bagan and East Bengal, who have been part of the ISL since 2020-21, after winning the I-League last season. This marks the first time since 2013-14 that all three clubs will be in India’s top-tier football league.

The inclusion of these legendary clubs in the ISL is a significant development for Indian football. “It is a nice family to be part of,” said Mohammedan Sporting’s Russian coach Andrey Chernyshov. “This could encourage more players from Bengal,” added East Bengal’s Souvik Chakraborty.

However, Mohammedan Sporting faces a challenging task in the ISL. With a revamped roster featuring many young and new players, including three of the six foreigners, the team will need time to adjust to the league’s higher level of competition.

“Though we play to win, we would need to get the feel of the ISL first,” said Chernyshov. “We are not in a position to think about the first match yet.”

Punjab FC, another I-League champion, is also aiming for a strong performance in the ISL. With a new coach and a talented striker in Mushaga Bakenga, the team hopes to finish in the top six.

“We lost lots of points in the last minutes,” said Bakenga. “Lesson learnt, we are aiming for the top-six this time.”

The ISL media day provided a platform for coaches and players to discuss various issues, including the importance of Indian players. “Seven Indians need to be on the pitch,” said Odisha FC coach Sergio Lobera. “Without a good group of Indian players, it is impossible to win.”

The inclusion of Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, and Mohammedan Sporting in the ISL is a testament to the rich history and passion for football in Kolkata. It is a moment that will undoubtedly captivate fans and further elevate the profile of Indian football.

Categories: Football

How to improve your football dribbling skills: A path to mastery

By chevaliersports September 3, 2024 0

Football dribbling is an art form that combines creativity, technique, and strategic thinking. It is more than just a skill. Improvement in dribbling abilities can have a significant impact on performance on the field for athletes, whether they are seasoned pros or prospective players wanting to improve their skills. This article offers a thorough guide for enhancing your football dribbling abilities, making you a more formidable player.

Understand the Basics of Dribbling

To start down the path to becoming a better dribbler, you must understand the fundamentals. Dribbling calls for the ability to handle the ball while sprinting, which calls for both coordination and agility. During gameplay, maintaining the ball near your feet enhances control and responsiveness. This foundational knowledge lays the groundwork for later, more sophisticated methods.

Master the Seven C’s of Dribbling

The “Seven C’s of Dribbling” cover a variety of abilities necessary for efficient dribbling. These include being able to change course, change speed, distance traveled, be creative, and adjust to various circumstances. By working on each element independently, athletes can create a versatile dribbling style that works in any situation during a game.

Implement Dribbling Drills

Targeted drills are a great way to improve your skills while training. Here are some drills that work well:

Closed-Space Dribbling Drill: Practice moving through three triangle-shaped cones by using all of your foot’s surfaces. This exercise enhances ball control in confined areas.

Cone Dribble Drill: Place cones in a straight line and alternate between dribbling through your inside and outside foot. Your capacity to move in different directions is enhanced by this.

One-on-One Controlled Dribble: Work on your ability to manoeuvre under pressure by dribbling against defenders. This is a crucial skill for circumstances that arise during games.

Work on Change of Pace

A proficient dribbler is aware of when to accelerate and when to slow down. Changing up the tempo during practice might help you confuse opponents and free up space for passes or shots. This essential talent can be developed with basic workouts like short bursts of acceleration followed by slower recovery periods.

Focus on Close Ball Control

Players might gain the upper hand in games by keeping the ball close to them. Positioning yourself better against defenders is made possible by practising light touches and keeping the ball inside a few feet. Close ball control training on a regular basis can greatly improve this area of your game.

Incorporate Creative Techniques

Participate in creative and enjoyable freestyle dribbling workouts to advance your dribbling. Through these activities, you may develop your signature moves that confuse opponents and open up space. You can also improve your game by studying the skills of professional dribblers and adopting their style.

Develop a Strong Mental Game

Dribbling requires more than just good physical skill; it also requires a solid mental game. On the field, staying aware of your surroundings enables you to make judgments more quickly and strategically. To improve your ability to read the game, try imagining good dribbles or watching professional matches.

Football dribbling is a technique that requires commitment, repetition, and a willingness to get better. You may improve your dribbling skills and eventually your game by learning the foundations, implementing different drills, concentrating on creativity, and enhancing your mental sharpness. Remind yourself while you focus on your training because improvement takes time and that each touch you make with the ball will bring you one step closer to mastery. Put on your boots, step onto the field, and watch as your development into an expert dribbler takes place.

Categories: Football, Sports360

Luis Suarez Announces Retirement from International Football

By Nilay September 3, 2024 0

Luis Suarez, the legendary Uruguayan striker, has announced his retirement from international football. The 37-year-old will bid farewell to his national team after Friday’s World Cup qualifier against Paraguay in Montevideo.

Suarez, who has been a talisman for Uruguay for over a decade, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation. He is Uruguay’s all-time leading scorer with 69 goals in 142 appearances.

The former Barcelona and Liverpool star made his international debut in 2007 and has represented his country in nine major tournaments, including three World Cups and four Copa Americas. He was instrumental in Uruguay’s Copa America triumph in 2011, where he was named player of the tournament.

Suarez’s international career has been marked by both brilliance and controversy. He was infamously banned for four months after biting Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini at the 2014 World Cup. He was also involved in a handball incident that denied Ghana a late winner in the 2010 World Cup quarter-finals.

Despite these controversies, Suarez remains a revered figure in Uruguayan football. He is known for his exceptional skill, determination, and passion. His retirement will mark the end of an era for the Uruguayan national team.

Categories: Football

Indian Football Team Begins New Era Under Márquez in Intercontinental Cup

By Nilay September 2, 2024 0

The Indian men’s football team, under the guidance of new head coach Manolo Márquez, embarks on a fresh chapter as they prepare for the Intercontinental Cup opener against Mauritius on Tuesday. The tournament serves as a crucial dress rehearsal for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers, which hold immense significance for India’s long-term goal of qualifying for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.

Márquez, who has had limited time with the squad due to pre-season commitments, has emphasized the importance of securing positive results in the upcoming FIFA international match windows to maintain India’s position in Pot 1 ahead of the December draw. The team’s performance in the Intercontinental Cup will be a key indicator of their progress and readiness for the challenges ahead.

The Indian squad features a blend of experienced players and promising newcomers, including Chinglensana Singh Konsham, Yasir Mohammad, Asish Rai, Roshan Singh Naorem, Kiyan Nassiri Giri, Lalthathanga Khawlhring, and Prabhsukhan Singh Gill. Márquez will be eager to see how these players perform and integrate into the team’s system.

India’s opponents, Syria and Mauritius, are no strangers to Indian soil. Syria has participated in previous editions of the Intercontinental Cup and the Nehru Cup, while Mauritius competed in the 2017 Tri-Nation Series. Both teams will pose different challenges, and India will need to adapt and execute their game plan effectively.

Mauritius, ranked 179th in the world, has shown resilience in their FIFA World Cup Qualifiers group, securing a home win over Eswatini and a draw against Angola. They will be led by French coach Guillaume Moullec and key players such as captain Kevin Jean-Louis, defender Dylan Collard, and midfielder Lindsay Rose.

The Intercontinental Cup provides India with an opportunity to assess their current standing and identify areas for improvement. Márquez will be keen to instill his philosophy and tactics into the team while also evaluating the players’ individual abilities and team chemistry. The tournament will be a valuable stepping stone on India’s journey towards the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers and their ultimate goal of continental success.

Categories: Football

Odisha’s Junior Football Triumph Tainted by Age-Fudging Allegations

By Nilay August 29, 2024 0

Odisha’s Junior Football Triumph Marred by Age-Fudging Allegations

Odisha’s historic qualification for the final of the Dr. BC Roy Trophy, the boys’ junior national football championship, has been overshadowed by allegations of age fudging. The tournament, which began in 1962, saw Odisha reach the final for only the third time. However, the achievement has been tainted by claims that the team fielded 12 overage players.

The Football Association of Odisha (FAO) has denied the allegations, but the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has launched an inquiry. The issue of age fudging is not new in Indian youth sports, with several state associations struggling to form squads for upcoming tournaments due to mandatory age tests.

The FAO has raised concerns that details of age tests conducted for the national under-15 league earlier this year were not shared with states. The association argues that it had no knowledge of the results of the TW3 (Tanner Whitehouse 3) tests, which estimate a person’s age through X-rays.

The AIFF has acknowledged that Odisha did not violate any rules for the BC Trophy, which did not require TW3 tests. However, the federation plans to introduce the tests from next year.

The FAO has also questioned why the allegedly overage players were allowed to register in the AIFF’s centralized registration system. The AIFF has admitted to teething problems in implementing the TW3 tests across youth leagues and states but is committed to reducing age fraud.

Categories: Football

Uruguayan Footballer Juan Izquierdo Dies at 27 After Collapsing During Match

By Nilay August 28, 2024 0

Uruguayan footballer Juan Izquierdo, a promising defender, tragically passed away on August 27, 2024, at a hospital in Brazil, five days after collapsing during a Copa Libertadores match at Sao Paulo’s Morumbi Stadium. He was just 27 years old.

Izquierdo’s untimely demise has sent shockwaves through the football world. Born in Montevideo, Uruguay, he began his professional career in 2018 with local club Cerro. After a brief stint at Peñarol, he moved to Montevideo Wanderers, where his athleticism and sharp tackles caught the attention of Mexico’s San Luís. However, he soon returned to Montevideo Wanderers.

In 2022, Izquierdo joined Nacional, one of Uruguay’s most prestigious clubs. He played one match before being transferred to Liverpool, where he played a pivotal role in the club’s first league title in over a century. This season, he returned to Nacional and was vying for a starting position with veteran defender Sebastián Coates.

On August 22, tragedy struck during a Copa Libertadores match against Sao Paulo. Izquierdo collapsed late in the game, and despite immediate medical attention, he was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. Doctors at Hospital Albert Einstein in Sao Paulo confirmed his death at 9:38 p.m. local time, citing “cardiorespiratory arrest associated with his cardiac arrhythmia.”

Izquierdo’s death has left a profound impact on the football community. Nacional expressed their “deep pain and impact in our hearts,” while the South American football governing body, CONMEBOL, mourned the “early departure of Juan Izquierdo.” Other federations, including Uruguay, Brazil, and Argentina, also extended their condolences.

Izquierdo’s passing has also raised concerns about the health and safety of footballers. Almost two decades ago, Sao Caetano defender Serginho died hours after collapsing at Morumbi Stadium during a Brazilian league match. His death prompted Brazilian football executives to implement new health protocols, including the mandatory presence of defibrillators in every stadium.

Juan Izquierdo’s legacy will live on as a talented footballer and a reminder of the importance of prioritizing player health and safety. His untimely demise has left a void in the football world, and his memory will be cherished by his family, friends, and fans.

Categories: Football

Calicut FC Appoints Australian Coach Ian Gillan with Ambitious Football Development Plans

By Nilay August 27, 2024 0

Calicut FC, a football club founded by Technocrat V.K. Mathews, has ambitious plans to establish itself as a top-tier team in Indian football. To achieve this goal, the club has appointed Australian coach Ian Gillan, who brings a wealth of experience from his stints in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

Gillan’s vision aligns with Mathews’ long-term development plans for football in Kozhikode. He believes that Super League Kerala is a progressive concept that can foster the growth of local talent. By playing alongside experienced foreign players, young Indian footballers can gain invaluable experience and improve their skills.

Gillan emphasizes the importance of developing a strong foundation for football in the state. He believes that the development of local talent is crucial for the overall growth of Indian football leagues. By providing opportunities for young players to showcase their abilities, Super League Kerala can contribute to the creation of a robust football ecosystem in the country.

The club’s aspirations extend beyond the Super League Kerala. Gillan and Mathews share the ambition of seeing Calicut FC compete in the Indian Super League (ISL) and I-League in the future. The club’s long-term vision and its commitment to developing local talent have attracted Gillan to the project.

Gillan’s appointment is a significant step in Calicut FC’s journey towards becoming a major force in Indian football. His experience and expertise will be invaluable in guiding the club towards its goals. With a clear vision and a dedicated team, Calicut FC is poised to make a significant impact on the football landscape in India.

Categories: Football

Polish Goalkeeping Legend Wojciech Szczesny Retires from Football

By Nilay August 27, 2024 0

Wojciech Szczesny, the renowned Polish goalkeeper, has bid farewell to professional football at the age of 34. The announcement comes weeks after his amicable departure from Serie A giants Juventus.

Szczesny’s illustrious career spanned seven seasons with Juventus, where he played a pivotal role in the club’s three Serie A triumphs and three Coppa Italia victories. Prior to his time in Turin, he honed his skills at Premier League club Arsenal, Brentford, and Roma.

Throughout his career, Szczesny amassed 84 caps for the Polish national team. His exceptional performances between the posts earned him widespread recognition and established him as one of the most respected goalkeepers in the world.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Szczesny expressed his gratitude for the transformative journey that football has been in his life. “I left Warsaw, my hometown, in June of 2006 to join Arsenal with one dream — to make a living out of football,” he wrote. “Little did I know it would be a start of a journey of a lifetime.”

Szczesny’s retirement marks the end of an era for Polish football. His contributions to the national team and his success at club level have left an indelible mark on the sport. He will be remembered as a true legend of the game, whose exceptional talent and unwavering determination inspired countless aspiring goalkeepers.

Categories: Football

Luis Suarez Bows Out of International Football with Frustrating Draw

Top 15 football summer transfers of 2024

Top 15 football summer transfers of 2024

Other Notable Mentions:

Kolkata’s Footballing Giants Unite in Historic ISL Debut

How to improve your football dribbling skills: A path to mastery

Luis Suarez Announces Retirement from International Football

Indian Football Team Begins New Era Under Márquez in Intercontinental Cup

Odisha’s Junior Football Triumph Tainted by Age-Fudging Allegations

Uruguayan Footballer Juan Izquierdo Dies at 27 After Collapsing During Match

Calicut FC Appoints Australian Coach Ian Gillan with Ambitious Football Development Plans

Polish Goalkeeping Legend Wojciech Szczesny Retires from Football

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Top 15 football summer transfers of 2024

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