Brighton 2-1 Man City: Milner and Gruda's goals deny Haaland's milestone score

 Manchester City lost at Brighton for the second year running as they went down 2-1 at the Amex Stadium.

2025/2026 Premier League

2 - 1

Milner (67' PEN)

Brajan Gruda (89')

Haaland (34')

Match Report

Manchester City lost at Brighton for the second year running as they went down 2-1 at the Amex Stadium.

City took the lead in the 34th-minute as Erling Haaland prodded the ball home from close range. Brighton had been really poor in the first half and they didn't start the second much better, meaning Fabian Hürzeler turned to his bench.

His quadruple change turned the game on its head, with Brighton equalising midway through the second half from the penalty spot. Matheus Nunes was adjudged to have handled the ball in the area and James Milner made no mistake from the spot.

Both teams pushed for a winner late on but it was the home side who found the third goal of the game, with Brajan Gruda slotting home.

It's now two defeats in a row for City after last weekend's loss to Tottenham, meaning they have taken just three points from their opening three Premier League games.

Match Events

0' The match is about to start!

9' Huge chance for Erling Haaland but the shot was so bad!

16' Yellow Card! Jan Paul van Hecke booked

19' HUGE SAVE! James Trafford denies Kaoru Mitoma one-vs-one

24' CHANCE! Erling Haaland 's effort is dragged wide

26' A second ball in, this time from Rodri, finds Haaland again but it's headed wide

33' Erling Haaland scores in his 100th premier league game! Brighton 0-1 Man City

49' Highlight from Brighton vs Man City

55' Match Event for Brighton vs Man City

58' Great show from Bobb in Brighton's box

60' Bobb's shot wide out

62' HUGE SAVE, AGAIN! Trafford to the rescue for the second time for ManCity here

67' The 39 year old Milner has equalized against Man City!! Brighton 1-1 Man City

70' James Milner dedicating his goal to Diogo Jota!

89' GOAL! Gruda completes the turnaround!!!! Brighton 2-1 Man City

Line-ups

Brighton XI: Welbeck, Veltman, Dunk, Kaoru Mitoma, Maxim De Cuyper, Jan Paul van Hecke, Bart Verbruggen, Diego Gómez, Carlos Baleba, Yankuba Minteh, Jack Hinshelwood

Subs: Milner, Steele, Olivier Boscagli, Ferdi Kadıoğlu, Matt O'Riley, Georginio Rutter, Yasin Ayari, Diego Coppola, Brajan Gruda

Man City XI: Stones, Bernardo Silva, Rodri, Haaland, Omar Marmoush, Reijnders, Rayan Aït-Nouri, Matheus Nunes, James Trafford, Bobb, Abdukodir Khusanov

Subs: Gundogan, Ake, Ederson, Ruben Dias, Akanji, Nico González, Doku, Lewis, Nico O'Reilly

Check out the exclusive overview of Brighton & Hove Albion vs Manchester City 👉

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Barça use €116m reference point during Fermin Lopez negotiations with Chelsea

 There are now less than 48 hours to go until the summer transfer window closes, and Barcelona still do not know whether Fermin Lopez wants to leave. The midfielder continues to attract interest from Chelsea, with whom he has been in regular contact with throughout the week.

On Saturday, it was reported by Fabrizio Romano that Chelsea submitted their opening written offer for Fermin, which was valued in the region of €40m, which was swiftly rejected by Barcelona. The reigning La Liga champions value the 22-year-old closer to €90m at this late stage of the transfer window, which would leave little time to use the funds raised to make their own signing.

As per MD, Chelsea have been told by Fermin’s entourage that an offer of €70m could be enough for Barcelona to given the green light, although the Catalans have pointed to the Club World Cup winners’ previous €116m deal for Moises Caicedo as a reference point during negotiations.

It’s no secret that Premier League clubs are often the biggest spenders, and it has been no different during this summer’s transfer window. Barcelona believe that any player of their attracting interest from one of these sides would be available at a premium, which includes this case with Fermin and Chelsea.

Barcelona would prefer to not sell Fermin at all, and head coach Hansi Flick is confident of retaining the services of the young attacking midfielder. However, they will open the door if he asks to leave, which as of yet he has not done.

It will be very interesting to see how the situation with Fermin plays out. He has been included in the matchday squad for Barcelona’s trip to Rayo Vallecano, but he could drop out if there is any movement throughout Sunday.

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Here we go! Romano: Christopher Nkunku to join AC Milan with a 5-year contract

 According to Romano, Christopher Nkunku to join AC Milan with a 5-year contract.

Romano: 

🚨💣Christopher Nkunku to AC Milan, here we go! Deal verbally agreed in principle between the clubs.

AC Milan and Chelsea are set to prepare documents today, fee will be in the region of €42m with add-ons.

Nkunku said yes to 5 year contract yesterday, as revealed.

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Haaland changes his NAME on national team jersey as Norway make announcement

 Erling Haaland has made a name change to his shirt for the Norwegian national team ahead of his country's upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Haaland, 25, will now include his middle name on his number nine shirt so that it reads 'Braut Haaland' instead.

Norway are next in action on September 4 in a friendly against Finland before they face Moldova in a World Cup qualifier on September 9.

Haaland's team are currently top of their group with a maximum of 12 points from four games so far, putting them top of the group and in pole position for a spot at the 2026 World Cup.

Meanwhile, off the pitch, Haaland has added to his extensive car collection as he was seen leaving the club's Etihad Campus in a new Ford Shelby F-150 truck last month.

The truck comes with a five litre V8 engine and is capable of going from zero to 60mph in 3.4 seconds.

It adds to a large fleet of cars Haaland has bought since moving to Man City for Borussia Dortmund back in 2022.

The Norwegian has remarkably bought four cars since putting pen to paper on his latest Man City contract earlier this year.

In January, Haaland signed the most lucrative contract in Premier League history, with his total package worth almost £1million per week over nine-and-a-half-years.

The following month, Haaland was seen leaving training in a orange Porsche 911 GT3 which is worth over £200,000.

Haaland was then reported to teamed up with billionaire car collector Ole Ertvaag to buy the Bugatti Tourbillion, worth a reported £4million.

The rare supercar is one of just 250 to have been made and was billed to have 'space age' features including 'butterfly doors'.

The Bugatti has a 1,800 horsepower petrol and electric hybrid V16 engine which can take the car from zero to 62mph in two seconds, and can reach 124mph in just a mere five seconds.

In May, Haaland splashed out on a yellow convertible Ferrari 812 Superfast, which would have set back the forward £320,000.

His collection also includes an Aston Martin DBX 4x4 worth £350,000, a £250,000 Mercedes Maybach and a £120,000 Audi RS6 Avant Quattro.

The forward in the past has been seen driving a Ferrari Monza SP2, a Rolls-Royce Cullinan and a Range Rover Sport.

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Mikel Arteta reveals Eberechi Eze PHONED him as he was about to join Tottenham

 Mikel Arteta has revealed Eberechi Eze phoned him as he was about to join Tottenham.

Arsenal left their north London rivals red-faced on Wednesday night when they reached an agreement in principle with Crystal Palace to sign Eze, 27.

Eze had looked Spurs-bound after they spent 10 days negotiating over a deal worth £55million plus add-ons - only for Arsenal to sneak in at the last minute with a bid worth £67.5m.

The 27-year-old completed the move to Arsenal on Saturday and was unveiled in front of fans before their 5-0 win over Leeds.

A report from The Athletic claims that Eze got in contact with Mikel Arteta just as he was about to commit to Tottenham.

When asked if it was true, Arteta said: 'That shows you how much he wanted to come.

'It's very different sometimes because you want to be very open and transparent with the players as they have to make decisions in their careers but I'm delighted to have him.

'I'm delighted to have him, I can tell how much it means to him and his whole family.'

Daily Mail Sport understands Spurs had agreed to Palace's transfer demands on Wednesday and also struck terms with Eze who, at that stage, was keen to finalise the move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

But Crystal Palace are understood to have insisted that Eze remain available for their Conference League play-off first leg against Norwegian side Fredrikstad on Thursday night, which handed Arsenal an opportunity to swoop in.

But in the end, Eze didn't play. Oliver Glasner expected him to have a send-off but revealed that the winger called in sick on the morning of the game.

He has signed a four year deal at the Emirates, with the option of a further year and will wear the No 10 shirt.

Eze Could make his debut when Arsenal travel to Anfield to face title challengers Liverpool next Sunday.

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Arsenal's final decision on Alejandro Garnacho transfer after private work on Man Utd star

 Alejandro Garnacho looks destined to leave Manchester United this summer, with Chelsea in pole position, but Arsenal are among the other clubs to look at the winger

Arsenal considered a move for Manchester United outcast Alejandro Garnacho before opting against a move, it has been claimed. The winger has been left out of United's pre-season tour, with Chelsea closing in on a cut-price deal, but their London rivals turned to other targets after exploring a shock deal.

The Gunners ended up turning their attentions to Noni Madueke, who joined from Chelsea in a £48millon deal. And they weren't the only ones to move on from Garnacho.

According to the Manchester Evening News, Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid also did due diligence with a view to potentially moving for the Argentine. Garnacho spent time in Atleti's academy as a youngster before moving to Old Trafford, and Diego Simeone's side considered bringing him back to the city of his birth.

Those teams also ultimately looked elsewhere. Spurs paid £55m to sign Mohammed Kudus from West Ham, while Atleti added both Alex Baena and Thiago Almada.

Chelsea are understood to have agreed personal terms with Garnacho, with negotiations over a fee ongoing. They have until September 1 to get a deal done, with United already dropping their asking price since the Blues' January interest.

Garnacho featured in all but two of United's Premier League matches last season, scoring six goals. He didn't start any of the final three games, though, and the writing appeared to be on the wall after he was left out of the starting line-up for the Europa League final.

"Up until the final I played every round helping the team, and today I play 20 minutes, I don't know," he said after the defeat against Spurs. "The final will influence [my decision] but the whole season, the situation of the club. I'm going to try to enjoy the summer and see what happens afterwards."

In early August, United boss Ruben Amorim made his feelings clear when it came to Garnacho's future. "I think with Garnacho, you can understand and you can see that he's talented, he's a really talented boy,” the boss said.

"But sometimes things don't work out and you cannot explain specifically what it is. But I have the feeling – and I think it's clear - that Garnacho wants a different thing with a different leadership and I can understand that.

"So I don't think it's a problem. Sometimes you adapt to one guy and you have the connection. Other times you want a new challenge. So we try to make everything OK for all parties. To the club, to the coach and to the player. It's a natural thing in football."

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PSG 2-2 Tottenham (4-3 on pens): PSG win UEFA Super Cup after epic late comeback

 PSG 2-2 Tottenham (4-3 on pens): PSG win UEFA Super Cup after epic late comeback

European champions Paris St-Germain produced a superb late recovery before winning a penalty shootout to clinch the Uefa Super Cup and deny Thomas Frank a first trophy as Tottenham boss.

2025 UEFA Super Cup

2 (4) - 2 (3)

Kang-in Lee (85')

Gonçalo Ramos (90'+4')

Van de Ven (39')

Cristian Romero (48')

Penalty Shootout

Vitinha

Gonçalo Ramos

Dembele

Kang-in Lee

Nuno Mendes

Solanke

Bentancur

Van de Ven

Tel

Porro

Match Report

Goals from set plays. Goals from centre halves. Long throws, an aerial assault and defensive resilience to neutralise the European champions.

The Thomas Frank revolution is under way. The style of football could hardly be more distinct from the one we witnessed under Ange Postecoglou but the thrill and the drama not at all dissimilar.

Two goals up through Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero and Tottenham seemed to be coasting to another piece of silverware when Paris Saint-Germain slipped into the groove, fought back level and took the UEFA Super Cup final to penalties.

Vitinha missed the target, and Spurs went 2-0 up again before Van de Ven’s was saved and Mathys Tel pulled his wide. Nuno Mendes scored the winning spot kick and the silverware goes to Paris not London.

With the performance over 90 minutes, though, Frank has imposed himself on Tottenham supporters. This is the way the Dane operates, with a strategy designed to combat the strengths of the opposition and a team packed with aggression.

His new chairman, Daniel Levy, who missed the game while in the United States with his family, would have enjoyed the occasion if not the final outcome.

Spurs didn’t have much of the ball. Passes did not purr, they did not pour forward, and here’s the thing. There are different ways to play the game. Different way to go about collecting your silverware.

They came within three minutes of adding another trophy to the one they claimed in Bilbao, in May, and nobody will complain if they take the good points from this performance and build them into something more over the course of the season.

Not even at Spurs, where they can be derided for their purist principles.

Frank handed debuts to his two senior summer signings Mohamed Kudus and Joao Paulhina and lined the team up with a back three. Freshly appointed captain Romero was central between Van de Ven and Kevin Danso.

Kudus and Richarlison worked in tandem up front with Pape Matar Sarr breaking out as the most advanced of three midfielders. They made a strong start as you might expect for a team six games into their preparation and opponents who came in straight off the beach.

Pedro Porro, enjoying the freedom of the wing back role, fizzed the first effort of the game narrowly over from 25 yards.

PSG returned to training this week after the FIFA Club World Cup final a month ago, and working a significant change into their game, with goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier in at the expense of Gianluigi Donnarumma, the scourge of the English on so many occasions.

Donnarumma is bound for the exit with Manchester City reportedly interested.

Chevalier, 23, has been signed from Lille for £33million and Luis Enrique, who was effusive in praise of Donnarumma on the eve of the game, claimed it was about a strategic change of direction.

This means he has signed a ‘keeper who oozes comfort on the ball and likes to come out and join the play, although judging by the second goal he ought to prioritise keeping it out.

His first save of the night was a routine one to turn over a 20-yarder unleashed by Richarlison after a promising link up with Kudus. Not a difficult save. Rodrigo Bentancur headed wide from the corner which followed.

Enrique’s team were certainly not in the groove they were when they swatted aside four Premier League teams and destroyed Inter Milan on the way to their first Champions League title.

But they have such quality that it could not fail to sparkle when they did begin to zip some passes about and always threatening on the break with scintillating pace and four out-and-out attacking players in the starting line-up.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia fizzed one wide on the turn and Bradley Barcola buzzed in the space behind Porro, the space most teams usually seek to exploit when they play against Spurs.

Ousmane Dembele lashed over a chance that fell to unexpectedly from a hoof clear by Van de Ven.

But Frank’s back five were strong. One striking aspect of his first selection was the sheer size and power on parade as Spurs lined up for ceremonial duties before kick-off.

With Vicario in goal, three huge centre-halves, two huge midfield screeners, Djed Spence at left wing back and Richarlison up front. Strong too, as Kudus proved when he flattened Vitinha, simply by running into him.

Spurs were aggressive, physical and menacing from set plays, the last of which will have delighted the new boss. It is one of his central to his methodology and distinct from his predecessor.

Van de Ven’s goal was classic Frank. A long diagonal free-kick launched into the deep by Vicario for Romero to head back across goal from somewhere near the left wing. Paulinha rolled Marquinhos and his shot was turned onto the frame of the goal.

It was a fine reflex save by Chevalier but Van de Ven was first to the rebound, sweeping the ball into the open net with his right foot. The sharpness of the extra preparation and the aerial power together with great effect.

They led at the interval despite only 35 percent of the ball and Kudus was close to making it 2-0 in stoppage time at the end of the first half, heading against a post after Danso and Richarlison won headers.

Romero headed in the second, with a run to meet a Porro free-kick beyond the back post soon after the restart. Chevalier made a complete mess of it. He reached it with both hands and tried to push it wide under pressure from Sarr but only pushed it into the corner of the net.

Spurs might have scored more. Danso crashed a header into the side netting and fooled 4,500 fans into thinking it was 3-0 and Porro swerved a free kick wide.

PSG rallied, finding their best in the final third of the game. Frank’s team had to defend as they tired and substitutions disrupted the flow.

Barcola had a goal ruled out for offside. Then Kang-in Lee scored. There were hints of the closing stages of the Europa League final about the nerve-jangling ending as six minutes were added on.

But this time Spurs conceded late. Dembele’s cross was headed in by Goncalo Ramos and a thrilling contest would be decided on penalties. Chevalier emerged as a hero but there is plenty to encourage Frank.

Line-ups

PSG XI: Marquinhos, Dembele, Hakimi, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Vitinha, Pacho, Lucas Chevalier, Nuno Mendes, Barcola, Zaire-Emery, Doue

Subs: Lucas, Fabian Ruiz, Safonov, Kang-in Lee, Gonçalo Ramos, Beraldo, Renato Marin, Mbaye, Noham Kamara

Tottenham XI: Palhinha, Vicario, Bentancur, Danso, Richarlison, Cristian Romero, Mohammed Kudus, Spence, Porro, Pape Sarr, Van de Ven

Subs: Ben Davies, Solanke, Austin, Brennan Johnson, Kinsky, Tel, Odobert, Gray, Bergvall, Luka Vuskovic, Junai Byfield

Check out the exclusive overview of Paris Saint-Germain vs Tottenham Hotspur 👉 Click here now >>>

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Here we go! Romano: Kingsley Coman to join Al Nassr with 3 years deal

Here we go! Romano: Kingsley Coman to join Al Nassr with 3 years deal.

Romano: 

Kingsley Coman to Al Nassr, here we go! Deal agreed with Bayern for package slightly under €30m.

Coman will sign three year deal at Al Nassr, part of ambitious project after Inigo Martinez and João Félix.

Medical and signature this week.

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It’s my dream – Barça star speaks on transfer interest from United and Chelsea

 On Sunday, Barcelona ended their pre-season schedule with a resounding 5-0 victory over Como in the Joan Gamper Trophy, and one of the stars for Hansi Flick’s side was Fermin Lopez. The 22-year-old scored the opening two goals at the Estadi Olimpic, which he hopes will be a sign of things to come for the 2025-26 campaign.

Fermin won the MVP award for the match, and as per MD, he reacts to the performance of his Barcelona teammates against Como. He also gave his thoughts for the upcoming season.

“It was a great game from the whole team that will be good for us. The work is non-negotiable, the pressure is high too, like last year, when we did very well. Let’s continue like this.”

It has been an interesting summer for Fermin, who has attracted significant transfer interest – particularly from Manchester United and Chelsea. However, he confirmed that he has no intention of leaving Barcelona.

“I want to stay here, it’s my dream and I will stay, I’m happy to help the team. Many things have been said, but I am going to continue defending these colours and working as hard as anyone else, so that the Catalans are calm.”

Fermin also spoke on Barcelona’s new signings, as well as addressing the recent controversy surrounding club captain Marc-Andre Ter Stegen.

“The new players are very good and will help us a lot. Marc is the first captain, we respect him a lot, what has happened are external things.”

Dani Olmo’s continual injury problems means that Fermin Lopez is likely to have a lot of playing time during the 2025-26 season, and if he can replicate the performance against Como on a regular basis, he should be able to move up in Flick’s estimations.

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Liverpool transfer news: Alexander Isak slammed as Wirtz opens up on £116m fee

 The Alexander Isak saga drags on with a sensational move for the Sweden striker now appearing to be increasingly dependent upon whether Newcastle can seal the signing of Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig

Next stop Wembley as Arne Slot's Liverpool head to Wembley for the FA Community Shield against Crystal Palace on Sunday afternoon.

But the Alexander Isak saga drags on with a sensational move for the Sweden striker now appearing to be increasingly dependent upon whether Newcastle can seal the signing of Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig and pip Manchester United in the race for his signature.

Either way the Reds appear well set for the new campaign with Florian Wirtz speaking on Monday night following the friendlies against Athletic Bilbao about how he is settling in and the £116m transfer fee will not weigh heavily.

Here are the big transfer stories to keep an eye on from in and around Anfield.

Wirtz relaxed

Florian Wirtz insists his huge price tag “doesn’t matter” as he plans to take the Premier League by storm. Champions Liverpool shelled out an initial £100m to take Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen this summer, and should certain add-ons be met then that will rise to £116m.

That fee would eclipse the current British transfer record of £115m that Chelsea paid to take Moises Caicedo from Brighton two years ago.

Liverpool remain in the hunt for Newcastle ’s Alexander Isak in a deal that could top Wirtz’s club record fee, but if that transfer doesn’t come off then Wirtz has no problem with being known as the most expensive new addition to the champions’ squad in what has so far been a £265m summer.

Pressed on the fee Liverpool have paid for him, Wirtz said: “No, I don't think about this. "

Isak slammed

Former Chelsea star Shaun Wright-Phillips has slammed Alexander Isak for the disrespect shown to his Newcastle team-mates while his transfer saga drags on.

Sweden star Isak has let his desire to leave St James Park become public knowledge amid keen interest from Liverpool, though the Toon’s asking price remains some way higher than what the Premier League champions appear willing to pay having last week had a first bid rejected.

And Wright-Phillips, a 36-time England international, reckons Isak has gone about forcing a move in such a way that it could easily be viewed as an insult to his current colleagues.

"I think he's handled it very badly because everyone knows you want out but you should go and train,” Wright-Phillips told AceOdds.com. “You’re not affecting the club, you're affecting the players you've been to war with for the last three seasons. Have a little bit of respect for your team-mates, turn up to train and then go home.”

Diaz reminder

Bayern Munich great Lothar Matthaus has reminded Luis Diaz that he "wasn't the first choice" after moving to the German giants from Liverpool for £65million.

The Colombian's deal at Anfield had two years left and he wanted a new contract, but Kop bosses refused to open negotiations over a new deal - forcing Diaz and his representatives to push for his exit. Bayern eventually secured a deal with Liverpool to take him to Bavaria, ending their summer-long search for new attacking talent.

But Matthaus told Bild : "Diaz is a good player, but he wasn't the first choice for this position. We also received rejections, and Eberl mustn't forget that."

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Here we go! Romano: AC Milan agree deal to sign Ardon Jashari from Club Brugge

 According to Romano, AC Milan agree deal to sign Ardon Jashari from Club Brugge, here we go!

Brugge have just accepted final bid in paper for €39m package and authorized Ardon for medical

After long negotiations, deal done as Jashari only wanted to join Milan project since June.

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Why Real Madrid’s Xabi Alonso risk will pay off

While some may not see it as such, Real Madrid bringing in Xabi Alonso to replace Carlo Ancelotti is certainly a risk. We’re talking about the biggest club in world football and, on the flip side, we’re talking about one of the most exciting young managers in the sport.

With that being said, Alonso’s long-term potential is still unclear despite his resounding success with Bayer Leverkusen. He’s obviously got all the potential in the world but at the age of just 43, he’s only just getting started with his managerial career.

The Spaniard has been able to lead Real Madrid to the semi-final in the Club World Cup and in doing so, he’s already made a few brave calls. He showed guts in sticking with Gonzalo Garcia ahead of Kylian Mbappe, he’s been calm under pressure with his decision making despite some tough challenges, and he was quick to throw Raul Asencio back into the mix as the replacement for Dean Huijsen following his red card against Borussia Dortmund.

Some wouldn’t be surprised to see some level of doubt creep into his management style given the magnitude of the task ahead of him, but Alonso has made a living out of being composed and decisive when crunch time arrives. While winning multiple trophies in his first season may seem ambitious, a quick look at our free bet calculator will tell you that it certainly isn’t outside the realm of possibility.

They face an incredibly winnable first six games in the form of Osasuna, Real Oviedo, Mallorca, Real Sociedad, Espanyol and Levante before arriving at the Madrid derby and from there, they could easily build a platform that sets them up for a really strong campaign. There are never any guarantees in the beautiful game but the early signs are promising.

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Barcelona defender exits Daegu friendly with knee injury

Barcelona were on song again in their third preseason friendly of their tour of Asia, beating Daegu FC 5-0 in South Korea before they return back to Catalonia. It was a largely positive evening for the Blaugrana, but the sour note was a potential injury to Pau Cubarsi.

The 19-year-old defender was looking in good shape against Daegu, putting in an efficient performance. However with around ten minutes to go, Cubarsi won the ball back and played it off before going to the ground briefly on his hauncches, and feeling his left leg. With just four minutes to go, Cubarsi decided he could not continue, and after being attended to by the medical staff, was substituted for Hector Fort for the closing minutes.

During that period, Cubarsi could be seen rubbing and pointing to the area around his knee, and upper shin. MD have confirmed that is indeed where the pain was coming from for Cubarsi, and that he sustained the problem during a challenge with one of Daegu’s players.

Manager Hansi Flick has confirmed that the Blaugrana are not concerned by the injury though. He told the press in the mix zone that it was merely a precaution, and he did not want to risk Cubarsi, but as far as they are aware, it is simply a knock rather than a muscle issue.

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Rodrygo 'makes decision on future' amid LIV, Arsenal and Hotspur transfer links

Rodrgyo has been strongly linked with a move to the Premier League after appearing to be frozen out by Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid, but the Brazilian reportedly believes he can still be a success at the Bernabeu

Real Madrid star Rodrygo has reportedly decided to stay and fight for his place at the Bernabeu this season, despite strong interest from Premier League clubs Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham.

The Brazilian has looked destined for the exit door in the Spanish capital this summer after appearing to fall down the pecking order under boss Xabi Alonso, who benched him for the team's Club World Cup semi-final defeat to PSG.

When asked why he made that decision, Alonso said he needed "different players" for the game, but said he hadn't made a final call about the winger's future yet.

Rodrygo's path to first team football certainly looks challenging, with Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius the first choice forwards, while youngsters like Endrick and Gonzalo Garcia will also be pushing for places too.

But according to Spanish outlet AS, Rodrygo is now "banking" on a stay with Madrid, believing he has enough quality to add to Alonso's existing options.

Arsenal looked like frontrunners to sign the winger but have since snapped up Noni Madueke, so a path to the Emirates looks blocked.

Liverpool have also spent plenty of cash this summer - with their summer spending totalling nearly £300m - so it's unlikely they would have the cash to bring in Rodrygo as they focus on a move for £150m-rated Alexander Isak.

And Tottenham already have Brennan Johnson and new signing Mohammed Kudus on the wings, so it doesn't look like they have any room for him either.

The report claims there has been "no signs of a move away" and "no significant offers" from elsewhere, giving Rodrygo little option but to stay put for now.

It says Rodrygo is convinced he can persuade Alonso he fits into his system at the Bernabeu and earn the manager's trust.

AS goes on to claim that Madrid have never pushed him towards the exit door and only would have considered a transfer if they received an offer of £78m or more.

Rodrygo has become a popular figure in Madrid since his £40m move in 2018 as a teenager and he has gone on to play 270 times for the club, scoring 68 times and winning 13 trophies.

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Liverpool teammate Cody Gakpo reflects on passing of Diogo Jota: 'Been very difficult'

A month has passed since Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva died in a car accident in Spain, in what is one of football’s biggest tragedies in recent years. The event led to tributes flooding in around the world from both Liverpool supporters and rival clubs. 

Gakpo was on holiday when Jota passed away, but was among those to attend an emotional funeral in Gondomar and to visit a shrine that was created outside Anfield, which was filled with tributes to the Portuguese star. Speaking to The Athletic, Gakpo revealed how the team are coping after his passing. 

“Yeah, it’s been very difficult. A lot of us were still on vacation when the situation happened. We came together as a team and as a club as soon as possible.  

“We tried to be there as much as we could at that moment for the family and together as a team to help wherever we could. We still try to do that, and everyone is still busy a bit more behind the scenes than what is in the news, reaching out and helping as much as possible.” 

Liverpool have tried to do their part by retiring his number 20 shirt and commissioning a sculpture in his honour.

The players are also set to wear a ‘Forever 20’ emblem on their shirts and stadium jackets throughout the 2025-26 campaign. Gakpo believes this is an important gesture to remember the winger. 

“It is the least we can do. Obviously, he was an outstanding player, but he as a person was even more wonderful. He was good with everyone. Everyone loved him, and that is also what you saw with how everyone reacted. 

“So yeah, it’s more that we want to remember who he was to us. Not as a player, because the player we can see on the highlights on YouTube, but more as the person he was.  

“He will be missed this season, but he will also be missed by everyone in this team and in this club, and by his family, for the rest of our lives. We will not forget him.” 

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Here we go! Romano: Lesley Ugochukwu to join Burnley on a Permanent Deal

According to Fabrizio Romano, Burnley have reached an agreement with Chelsea to sign midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu on a permanent transfer. The French midfielder has been granted authorization to undergo his medical ahead of the move.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Burnley have reached an agreement with Chelsea to sign midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu on a permanent transfer. The French midfielder has been granted authorization to undergo his medical ahead of the move.

Romano:

Lesley Ugochukwu, authorized for medical at Burnley after permanent deal agreed with Chelsea.

Both Armando Broja and Ugochuwku sign on permanent deal, contracts to be signed and sealed this week.

Here we go. ✅

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Kick Off: United claim the PL Summer Series champions, Hato transfers to Chelsea

 OFFICIAL: Chelsea sign Ajax's teenage defender Jorrel Hato for an initial £35.5m

Chelsea have completed the signing of teenage defender Jorrel Hato from Ajax to take their summer spending beyond £250m.

Match Report

Man Utd 2-2 Everton: Fernandes and Mount on target in entertaining friendly

Manchester United and Everton played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in Atlanta as Ruben Amorim’s side won the Premier League Summer Series.

Newcastle 1-1 Tottenham: Son bids farewell to Spurs, B. Johnson & Barnes net

Heung-Min Son received the adulation in his final appearance for Tottenham Hotspur as they drew 1-1 with Newcastle United in Seoul in a game marked by a serious-looking injury to James Maddison.

Porto 1-0 Atletico: Simeone's side stunned by Porto in preseason opener

Porto’s new signing Victor Froholdt nets the winner in their pre-season friendly against Atlético Madrid.

Napoli 1-2 Stade Brestois 29: Milinkovic-Savic's debut, Lucca scores

Napoli loses its second preseason friendly in Castel di Sangro, Brest wins 2-1 with a brace from Ajorque.

PSV 2-1 DVV Go Ahead: Eredivisie champions lift the Dutch Super Cup, Dest scored

One week before the Eredivisie season kicks off, reigning champion PSV claimed the Johan Cruyff Shield with a 2-1 win over Go Ahead Eagles on Sunday in Eindhoven.

These Things Happen

Here we go! Romano: Heung-min Son to LAFC from Spurs with €15m

According to Romano, Heung-min Son is ready to join LAFC, here we go! Verbal agreement in place between all parties.

OFFICIAL: Tottenham confirm season-long loan of Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich

Tottenham have confirmed the signing of Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich.

OFFICIAL: Former Chelsea and PSG player David Luiz joins Pafos FC

Pafos FC announce the signing of Brazilian football player David Luiz, who joins the club on a contract until 2027. 

OFFICIAL: Former Barça player Luuk de Jong joins FC Porto as a free agent

Luuk de Jong has joined FC Porto on a free transfer after his contract with PSV Eindhoven expired, both clubs announced Sunday.

Maddison stretchered off during pre-season game with Newcastle in South Korea

James Maddison was stretchered off for Tottenham in their pre-season friendly draw with Newcastle in South Korea - in what Thomas Frank described as a "brutal" injury.

Here we go! Romano: Tim Weah to Olympique Marseille from Juventus

According to Romano, Tim Weah to Olympique Marseille, here we go! Deal verbally agreed now also with Juventus.

Son breaks down in tears as he is given emotional farewell in final match

SON HEUNG-MIN broke down in tears after what is expected to be his final Tottenham appearance following a decade at the club.

'I rejected big-money Liverpool transfer - now I could replace Son at Tottenham'

With the news that Son Heung-Min is to leave Tottenham Hotspur, Thomas Frank has reportedly identified a player who almost joined Liverpool and Manchester United as the South Korean's replacement

Atletico Madrid very interested in signing €30m Barcelona player

Barcelona are expected to continue selling players this summer in order to be able to return to La Liga’s 1:1 rule – which will also help their ability to register a number of first teamers.

Amorim makes feelings clear on Garnacho after Man Utd transfer decision

Alejandro Garnacho is one of four unwanted Manchester United players still searching for a new club after the Argentine fell out with manager Ruben Amorim last season.

Barcelona reject Premier League swap offer on Fermin Lopez

Barcelona are all set to double down over their determination to keep Fermin Lopez at the club this summer.

Jude Bellingham shows off striking scar in first pictures after shoulder surgery

Real Madrid will have to do without Jude Bellingham for at least the first couple months of the upcoming 2025-26 season, with the English midfielder having overgone surgery on a troubling shoulder injury.

Sesko set off 'alarm bells' at Arsenal as Man Utd given cause for concern

Benjamin Sesko looks likely to leave RB Leipzig this month, with Manchester United and Newcastle interested in the striker but he was once a key target for Arsenal before they signed Viktor Gyokeres

Partey set to join Villarreal as free agent - despite he facing rape charges

Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey will reportedly return to LaLiga after departing the north London club as a free agent at the end of last season.

Man Utd picked by Newcastle's top target even after Eddie Howe's £32m guarantee

Newcastle have struggled to attract new players this summer, with one former top target electing to choose Manchester United despite the Magpies being able to offer Champions League football.

What They Say

Chelsea new boy Hato explains why he joined Blues despite secret Liverpool visit

Jorrel Hato has completed his move to Chelsea despite interest elsewhere as the Dutch defender claimed the Blues were the best place for him after previously being seen at Liverpool

Rashford speaks out on permanent Man Utd transfer after Barcelona 'humiliation'

Marcus Rashford has responded to questions about his chance of making a permanent move to Barcelona after suffering 'humiliation' early on in his loan stint with the Catalans

Amorim says managing Man Utd was like ‘fighting with hands by my side’

RUBEN AMORIM has revealed he DREADED the match day drive to Old Trafford last season - because he KNEW Manchester United were going to lose.

Fixtures of the day

Club Friendlies

Napoli VS US Casertana 1908 2025/08/04 8:00 UTC

Daegu VS Barcelona 2025/08/04 11:00 UTC

Liverpool VS Athletic Club 2025/08/04 16:00 UTC

Liverpool VS Athletic Club 2025/08/04 19:00 UTC

Brazilian Série A

Santos VS Juventude 2025/08/04 23:00 UTC

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Kick Off: Brazil win the Women's Copa América 2025, Ramsdale joins Newcastle

 Match Report

Inter Miami CF 2-2 Necaxa(5-4 on pens): Messi forces off injured, Alba equalizer

Inter Miami CF edged Mexican side Necaxa 7-6 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in regulation time, securing 2 crucial points in their Leagues Cup Group Stage clash.

Colombia 4-4 Brazil (4-5 on pens): The Brazil win the Women's Copa América 2025

Brazilian Women's national team defeated Colombia on penalties 5-4 after the end of regular and extra time 4-4, and won its ninth title in its history, the Copa America Women's 2025. 

Bayern 2-1 Lyon: Olise doubles to send Bayern a friendly win, Luis Diaz debuts

Game is over and the final score is Bayern 2-1 Lyon. Here is the match report.

Juventus 2-2 Reggiana: Conceição & Vlahovic's goal fail to secure a friendly win

Game is over and the final score is Juventus 2-2 Reggiana. Here is the match report.

Dortmund 3-2 Lille: Adeyemi scores, Meunier nets past his former club

BVB beat OSC Lille 3-2 (2-0) in the "replay" of the Champions League round of 16 from the spring.

These Things Happen

OFFICIAL: Aaron Ramsdale joins Newcastle on a season-long loan deal

Newcastle United have completed the signing of goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale on a season-long loan deal.

OFFICIAL: Bayern star Pavlović sidelined with injury for 3 or 4 weeks

Aleksandar Pavlovic has suffered another injury.🚨

Cunha thinks player Man Utd 'should sign' over Sesko can win Ballon d'Or

Matheus Cunha and Manchester City's Rodri are big admirers of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, who Rio Ferdinand wants Manchester United to sign over striker Benjamin Sesko

Sesko ‘chooses Newcastle over Man Utd’ in shock transfer decision to Isak’s move

BENJAMIN SESKO has decided to join Newcastle over Manchester United, according to reports.

EPL players who announced their retirement at the end of last season

Every summer delivers its share of transfer hype, but the 2025 off-season has also seen a few departing Premier League icons call time on their playing days.

David Ornstein: Newcastle make €80m bid for RB Leipzig striker Sesko

Newcastle United have made an offer worth €80million for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko.

Bruno Fernandes wanted in Saudi transfer AGAIN as Al-Nassr ‘line up shock move’

BRUNO FERNANDES has once again been linked with a sensational move to the Saudi Pro League - a month after turning it down.

Barcelona eye €30m sale to seal Marcus Rashford’s registration

Barcelona are still working to ensure Marcus Rashford’s registration with La Liga for the incoming 2025/26 season.

Amorim plots two more signings after Benjamin Sesko with Man Utd frontrunners

Manchester United have been linked with a move for Benjamin Sesko, but it appears Ruben Amorim will not be satisfied if they only sign the young Slovenian

Manchester United meet Barcelona €70m asking price for 28 G/A star

Barcelona need to generate funds in order to be able to register their new signings, and because of this, offers are being considered for numerous players. And one of those could now be set to take a step closer to leaving.

Luke Shaw says he felt like he 'failed' Erik ten Hag: 'I wasn't there for him'

Manchester United defender Luke Shaw admits he believes he "failed" former manager Erik ten Hag.

Liverpool 'immediately open talks' with Real Madrid star Rodrygo after Isak bid

Liverpool have reporredly contacted the representatives of Real Madrid winger Rodrygo as they step up their pursuit of attacking reinforcements following their rejected bid for Alexander Isak

Franco Mastantuono labels current Real Madrid as an ‘idol’

Real Madrid are on course to unveil their fourth signing of the summer transfer window in Franco Mastantuono.

Man Utd 'lodge £61m transfer bid' for Barcelona star Fermin Lopez

Manchester United will have to start thinking about the long-term successor for captain Bruno Fernandes and the Red Devils are reportedly weighing up a £61m bid for Barcelona's attacking midfielder Fermin Lopez

Isak transfer news: Newcastle star due back at club after Liverpool bid rejected

Alexander Isak is due back in Newcastle on Saturday following his personal training camp in Spain - a day after a bid from Liverpool of over £100m was rejected by the Magpies.

New Barcelona star wants to stay ‘for his entire career’

Barcelona have enjoyed a relatively low key summer transfer window ahead of the 2025/26 La Liga season start.

Man Utd wonderkid dubbed 'kid Messi' scores stunning solo goal for U18s

A Manchester United academy starlet has sent fans of the club into a frenzy after scoring an remarkable solo effort.

“He is the heir” – Real Madrid star backed to succeed Lionel Messi

On Saturday, Franco Mastantuono arrived in Spain ahead of starting the next chapter of his career at Real Madrid. There are many expectations for the attacker, who will official join when he turns 18 later this month.

Ex-Ecuador international: Chelsea prospect could be ‘better than Messi & Neymar’

There’s a lot of hype surrounding the newest RC Strasbourg Alsace recruit, hailed as the next great South American superstar.

Hojlund makes telling transfer decision amid Man Utd's Benjamin Sesko chase

Manchester United are interested in RB Leipzig star Benjamin Sesko and it had been claimed that Rasmus Hojlund could be used as a makeweight in any potential deal

Mbeumo will make MU debut vs Everton with Cunha also set to feature in friendly

Bryan Mbeumo will make his Manchester United debut against Everton in Atlanta on Sunday night.

Fixtures of the Day

Club Friendlies

Newcastle United VS Tottenham Hotspur 2025/8/3 11:00 UTC

Ajax VS Monaco 2025/8/3 12:00 UTC

Napoli VS Stade Brestois 29 2025/8/3 17:00 UTC

Girona VS Wolverhampton Wanderers 2025/8/3 18:00 UTC

Porto VS Atletico Madrid 2025/8/3 18:00 UTC

Manchester United VS Everton 2025/8/3 21:00 UTC

Premier League Summer Series

AFC Bournemouth VS West Ham United 2025/8/3 18:00 UTC

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Liverpool 'immediately open talks' with Real Madrid star Rodrygo after Isak bid

Liverpool have reporredly contacted the representatives of Real Madrid winger Rodrygo as they step up their pursuit of attacking reinforcements following their rejected bid for Alexander Isak

Liverpool have reportedly made contact with Real Madrid's Rodrygo following their initially unsuccessful attempt to sign Alexander Isak.

After a bid £110million for the Newcastle striker was turned down in favour of a £150m price tag, Liverpool have cooled their interest in the Swedish forward for now.

Despite Isak's efforts to secure a move to Anfield, including rejecting a new contract in the north east and training with his former club Real Sociedad, he will now rejoin the squad after their Far East tour.

Following Luis Diaz's £65.5m move to Bayern Munich, Liverpool are still looking to strengthen their attack. Darwin Nunez and Harvey Elliott are also anticipated to leave Merseyside this summer in search of more playing time.

According to ESPN Brazil, Liverpool have reached out to Rodrygo's representatives in light of recent events, ahead of making an official offer. The 24-year-old, who has also been linked with Arsenal, is believed to have agreed personal terms with the current Premier League champions.

Rodrygo has fallen out of favour with Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid, who is prioritising Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr, leading Rodrygo to contemplate a move to England. He is valued at around £70m, reports the Express.

But clubs are now aware that Liverpool still have money to spend, having splashed out on Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong for nearly £300m combined, after Eddie Howe confirmed a bid for Isak.

"I really don't know what happens next," Howe said on tour in Asia. "From our perspective, we still support Alex in every way, and my wish is that we see him in a Newcastle shirt again.

"It is difficult because you don't know what is going to happen. There can be all sorts of talk and hypothetical situations but then you are dealing with reality.

"The reality is we had the first bid from Liverpool yesterday. I believe that was turned down, from this point onwards let's see what happens. I have no idea to try to predict that."

However, Rodrygo might prove a superior stylistic match compared to Isak, given that Liverpool have already forked out £79m for striker Ekitike.

The Brazilian could feature on the left flank - his favoured position despite operating on the right wing in Madrid - to plug the void created by Diaz's departure.

Ekitike would spearhead the attack centrally, rather than partnering Isak as previously suggested, with Wirtz and Mohamed Salah providing support in a devastating four-man frontline.

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