Inside World Soccer

Cristiano Ronaldo could return to Portugal after Jorge Jesus extends olive branch

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 05 Oct 2026 11:00:00 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Jorge Jesus says Cristiano Ronaldo can return to Portugal in November.
Pedro Proença calls the Ronaldo-Jesus dispute a misunderstanding.
Portugal won both Nations League games without Ronaldo.

Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal future remains uncertain, but Jorge Jesus has made it clear that the door is open for the veteran forward to return.

Ronaldo left Portugal's training camp during the latest international break following a dispute with Jesus after being left as an unused substitute in the team's 2-1 Nations League victory over Norway.

The 41-year-old was subsequently absent as Portugal beat Denmark 4-2 before securing another 2-1 victory over Norway. Those results ensured Jesus' side maintained a perfect record in the Nations League campaign, despite the absence of their captain and all-time leading scorer.

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Jorge Jesus: "Ronaldo can return if he wants to"

Jesus, who previously managed Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, has offered an unusually direct invitation for the forward to return.

Speaking after Portugal's latest victory, Jesus said Ronaldo would be considered for the next international break if he wants to come back.

Cristiano Ronaldo will be called up for the next international break, if he wants to return.

It's his decision. I am ready to call him if he will play with Al-Nassr.

Jesus also insisted there was no lasting resentment between the pair, despite the dramatic circumstances surrounding Ronaldo's departure.

Just because it was him, and perhaps rightly so, because he is a symbol, this whole issue of warming up and not warming up, coming on and not coming on, has been created.

Why did Cristiano Ronaldo leave Portugal?

The dispute began when Jesus decided not to start Ronaldo against Norway.

Ronaldo had started Portugal's previous match, a 1-0 victory over Wales, but was told he would be on the bench for the following game.

The situation escalated when Ronaldo warmed up during the match but ultimately remained an unused substitute. It was reportedly the first time in 18 years that he had been left on the bench without making an appearance for Portugal.

After the final whistle, Ronaldo went straight down the tunnel rather than joining his team-mates in acknowledging the supporters.

Jesus later confirmed that Ronaldo would not start the following match against Denmark.

Ronaldo then left the training camp and issued a statement on social media.

In due course, I will tell the truth to all the Portuguese people about my reasons for leaving the national team, to which I have always been dedicated.

The statement suggested that the full story behind his departure had yet to emerge.

Pedro Proença backs Ronaldo

FPF President Pedro Proença has also attempted to calm the situation.

Rather than suggesting Ronaldo's international career is coming to an end, Proença stressed that the five-time Ballon d'Or winner remains an important part of Portugal's plans.

Cristiano Ronaldo is the best player in history. He has dedicated more than two decades to Portuguese football and is the ultimate symbol of Portuguese identity.

What happened between him and Jorge Jesus was simply a misunderstanding that needs to be resolved internally.

Proença also highlighted Ronaldo's decision to continue playing for Portugal after the 2022 FIFA World Cup, when he could have chosen to end his international career.

He could have ended his career at the World Cup, but he didn't because of his love for his national team.

The FPF president has indicated that there is now time for both sides to sit down and resolve the dispute before the November international break.

Portugal have coped without Ronaldo

The immediate results have given Jesus some useful leverage.

Portugal won 4-2 away to Denmark before beating Norway 2-1, collecting maximum points from both matches without Ronaldo.

Jesus has therefore won all four of his opening matches as Portugal manager, whilst the team has continued to score freely without its record goalscorer.

Ronaldo remains Portugal's all-time leading scorer, with 146 international goals in 234 appearances.

That does not necessarily mean Portugal are better without him, however.

A short run of matches cannot establish that Ronaldo's absence improves the team. The quality of opposition, tactical setup, game state and individual player performances all affect those figures.

What the results do show is that Portugal have enough attacking depth to remain competitive without their most recognisable player.

Ronaldo's international future remains his decision

Jesus has publicly offered Ronaldo a route back into the squad. Proença has reinforced the message from the federation and described the disagreement as something that can be resolved internally.

The bigger question is whether Ronaldo is willing to accept a reduced role as Portugal's squad enters another phase of transition.

At 41, Ronaldo's position within the team is inevitably different from what it was during the peak of his international career. He remains an extraordinary goalscorer and a major symbol of Portuguese football, but Jesus has also demonstrated that he is prepared to make decisions based on his tactical plans rather than Ronaldo's status.

Portugal's next international fixtures are against Denmark and Wales in November. If Ronaldo wants to return, Jesus has already made his position clear: the door is open.

The decision now appears to belong to Ronaldo.

Rui Pinto: The Football Leaks hacker who changed Manchester City forever

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 04 Oct 2026 10:30:00 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Rui Pinto's Football Leaks helped trigger scrutiny of Manchester City's finances.
City were found guilty of serious financial breaches covering nine seasons.
Pinto now faces losing witness protection amid claimed death threats.

Rui Pinto is one of the most controversial figures in modern football. To some, he is a whistleblower who exposed a secretive industry. To others, he is a convicted cybercriminal who obtained private information illegally.

Either way, his influence on football is difficult to ignore.

From a computer in Budapest, the Portuguese national accessed millions of confidential documents belonging to clubs, players, agents and football organisations.

He published some of them through a mysterious website called Football Leaks.

The documents exposed hidden contracts, sponsorship arrangements, player salaries, agent agreements, offshore structures and internal correspondence.

They eventually reached journalists at Der Spiegel and other members of the European Investigative Collaborations network.

And now, more than a decade after Football Leaks first appeared online, Pinto's story has collided with one of the biggest scandals in Premier League history.

The student behind Football Leaks

Rui Pedro Gonçalves Pinto was born on 20 October 1988 in Vila Nova de Gaia, across the Douro River from Porto.

He grew up supporting FC Porto and developed an early interest in computers.

He studied history at the University of Porto but never completed the degree. During an Erasmus period in Budapest, he developed a stronger connection with the Hungarian capital and eventually returned there.

Pinto was not a conventional professional hacker. Much of his technical knowledge was self-taught.

Then, in 2015, Football Leaks appeared.

The concept was straightforward: reveal the information football's most powerful institutions did not want the public to see.

Pinto operated anonymously under the pseudonym "John."

At first, the website concentrated heavily on Portuguese football, particularly Benfica and Porto.

But the scale quickly expanded.

Contracts began appearing online. So did correspondence between executives, details of transfer agreements, sponsorship arrangements and financial documents.

One of the early major stories involved Doyen Sports, a powerful investment fund involved in football transfers.

Football Leaks published documents that raised questions over Doyen's influence at Dutch club FC Twente. The revelations contributed to regulatory action against the club.

Football Leaks was no longer simply an anonymous website. Its material was beginning to have real-world consequences.

From Football Leaks to Der Spiegel

The biggest transformation came when Pinto established contact with journalists.

Among them was Portuguese journalist António Varela, who later helped connect Football Leaks with German investigative journalist Rafael Buschmann and Der Spiegel.

The resulting collaboration became enormous.

Tens of millions of documents were shared with journalists. Pinto's archive included contracts, emails and financial information relating to some of the biggest names in world football.

The material involved clubs and individuals including:

Cristiano Ronaldo
Lionel Messi
Neymar
José Mourinho
Paris Saint-Germain
Real Madrid
Bayern Munich
Manchester City

Journalists suddenly had access to an extraordinary amount of information about an industry that had traditionally operated behind layers of confidentiality.

Data journalist Christoph Winterbach later compared examining the archive to being a child in a sweet shop.

But the story also raised an uncomfortable question:

Where is the line between whistleblowing and criminal hacking?

That question would follow Pinto for the rest of his life.

Rui Pinto was not simply a whistleblower

The heroic version of the Rui Pinto story leaves out some important details.

Pinto did not merely stumble across wrongdoing and hand evidence to journalists.

He actively sought access to computer systems and private communications.

And in the Doyen case, he attempted to obtain money in exchange for not publishing confidential information. The proposed payment was more than £400,000.

Pinto did not ultimately receive the money, but the episode became central to the prosecution's case against him.

In September 2023, he was sentenced in Portugal to four years in prison, suspended, after being convicted of offences including attempted extortion, unlawful access and violation of correspondence.

He was also given a six-month suspended sentence in France in November 2023 for illegally accessing emails belonging to Paris Saint-Germain executives.

That history makes it difficult to describe Pinto simply as a modern-day Robin Hood.

His methods were illegal, but the information he obtained also exposed matters of substantial public interest.

That contradiction is at the heart of his story.

The Cristiano Ronaldo controversy

Perhaps the most famous individual story connected to Football Leaks involved Cristiano Ronaldo.

In 2009, American woman Kathryn Mayorga accused Ronaldo of raping her in a Las Vegas hotel.

Ronaldo denied the allegation and said the encounter was consensual.

Mayorga contacted police and underwent a medical examination. The two sides later reached a confidential civil settlement under which she received about £243,000.

Years later, Football Leaks documents obtained by Der Spiegel brought the case back into the global spotlight.

The documents included material from Ronaldo's legal team relating to the allegation.

Mayorga subsequently filed a civil lawsuit and the criminal investigation was reopened.

However, prosecutors in Las Vegas decided in 2019 that there was insufficient evidence to prove the allegation beyond a reasonable doubt.

The civil case continued. In 2022, a US judge dismissed Mayorga's lawsuit after finding that her lawyer had improperly relied on stolen and privileged documents. An appeals court upheld that decision in 2023.

The case demonstrated the complicated nature of Football Leaks. The leaked material could expose stories that would otherwise remain hidden, but the method used to obtain that material could itself undermine subsequent legal proceedings.

The Manchester City connection

The Manchester City story is arguably the most important part of Pinto's football legacy.

In 2018, Der Spiegel published Football Leaks documents concerning City's sponsorship arrangements and the source of certain commercial revenues.

The central question was simple.

Were sponsorship payments genuinely coming from independent commercial partners, or were some of the funds effectively being provided by entities connected to City's owner?

That distinction mattered because of football's financial regulations.

UEFA subsequently investigated Manchester City.

In 2020, City were banned from European competition for two seasons and fined around £26.7 million.

However, the Court of Arbitration for Sport overturned the European competition ban. Some allegations were not sufficiently established, whilst other matters were considered time-barred.

The Premier League's investigation continued.

In February 2023, the league referred more than 100 alleged breaches to an independent commission.

The case would eventually become one of the most complex financial investigations ever conducted in English football.

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Manchester City found guilty

On 29 September 2026, the Premier League announced the independent commission's findings.

Manchester City were found guilty of all charges concerning serious breaches of Premier League financial rules over the nine-season period from 2009/10 to 2017/18.

The commission found that City had:

used "sham" commercial contracts
artificially inflated revenue
reduced reported costs
submitted misstated accounts
concealed the true state of their finances from auditors and regulators
breached Premier League and UEFA spending limits
failed to co-operate fully with the Premier League investigation

The commission calculated that City had recorded £949.94 million in sponsorship revenue from Abu Dhabi-based companies during the period.

Of that amount, only around £119.25 million represented the actual base fees paid by the sponsors.

The remaining amount £830.69 million was found to have been funded by Abu Dhabi United Group, the club's owner, according to the commission's findings.

The commission also found that the overall effect of the schemes was to artificially inflate revenues and reduce costs by more than £900 million.

The figures are staggering, but one distinction is essential.

Manchester City have not been sentenced.

The punishment is a separate matter.

The club have denied wrongdoing and appealed the verdict. Potential sanctions could include financial penalties, points deductions, transfer restrictions, title-related consequences or even more severe sporting punishment, but no specific sanction should currently be presented as certain.

That appeal could take months.

It could also fundamentally alter the consequences of the commission's findings.

Did Rui Pinto bring down Manchester City?

Not by himself.

That distinction matters.

Pinto's documents helped journalists expose the financial arrangements that triggered scrutiny and contributed to UEFA and Premier League investigations.

But the Manchester City case was ultimately determined by an independent commission after a lengthy legal process.

The commission's verdict is therefore not simply "Rui Pinto was right."

It is more complicated than that.

Pinto provided information.

Journalists investigated it.

Football authorities examined the allegations.

Manchester City defended themselves.

And an independent commission eventually reached its own conclusions.

Nevertheless, without the Football Leaks material, the trajectory of the Manchester City investigation could have been very different.

That makes Pinto an important figure in the history of the case, even if calling him solely responsible would be inaccurate.

The man who became both defendant and informant

Pinto's relationship with the Portuguese justice system became increasingly unusual.

He was arrested in Budapest in January 2019 after Portugal sought his extradition.

He spent more than a year in detention.

Eventually, he agreed to co-operate with authorities and gave investigators access to encrypted archives.

In August 2020, he entered Portugal's special witness-protection programme.

The result was an extraordinary contradiction.

Pinto was a convicted cybercriminal.

But he was also providing information to investigators.

He had illegally obtained confidential material.

Yet some of the same material was considered valuable enough for authorities to examine.

In April 2026, that contradiction became even more striking.

A Lisbon court acquitted Pinto of all 241 charges in his second major Portuguese trial.

The court ruled that the prosecution was invalid and that the case involved procedural violations, including the fact that Pinto was effectively being prosecuted again over circumstances connected to an earlier conviction.

Portugal's Public Prosecutor's Office appealed the decision.

So Pinto's legal position remains complicated.

He has been convicted of serious offences. He has also been acquitted of 241 other charges.

The two facts can coexist.

Now Pinto is going into hiding

The latest chapter may be the most dramatic.

On 2 October, Pinto said he had been informed that his participation in Portugal's witness-protection programme would end on 10 October.

He said the decision would remove the security arrangements that had protected him since 2020.

Pinto has also claimed that he has received multiple death threats and faces a serious risk of assassination.

Those claims have been repeated by his legal representatives, but the precise nature and credibility of the threats have not been publicly established.

Pinto therefore has no choice but to relocate to an undisclosed location indefinitely.

His lawyers have criticised the decision to end his protection and warned of serious consequences.

Importantly, there is currently no established evidence that the termination of his protection was ordered as retaliation for the Manchester City verdict.

The timing is striking, but timing alone does not establish causation.

Hacker or whistleblower?

That may be the wrong question.

Rui Pinto is both more complicated and less comfortable than either label suggests.

Calling him a hero ignores the illegal methods he used.

Calling him merely a criminal ignores the enormous public-interest consequences of the information he obtained.

Football Leaks exposed the hidden financial architecture of elite football.

It helped journalists investigate offshore structures, taxation, sponsorship arrangements, agent relationships and confidential contracts.

Its material contributed to investigations involving some of the world's biggest clubs and players.

And now, more than a decade after Pinto first appeared online as "John," documents from his operation sit somewhere near the beginning of the chain that led to one of the biggest financial verdicts in Premier League history.

What happens next?

For Manchester City, the next stage is the appeal.

The club remain in the Premier League and have not been stripped of any titles as a result of the verdict.

Sanctions have yet to be determined.

For Pinto, the immediate issue is personal security.

His witness protection is scheduled to end on 10 October, whilst he is preparing to leave Portugal.

That leaves both stories unresolved.

But the significance of Football Leaks is already difficult to reverse.

In 2015, an anonymous Portuguese man sitting behind a computer began publishing documents that powerful football organisations never expected the public to see.

More than a decade later, those documents have travelled through newsrooms, courtrooms, regulatory investigations and international authorities.

They eventually became part of the story surrounding a verdict that could reshape the history of the Premier League.

FAQ

Who is Rui Pinto?

Rui Pinto is the Portuguese founder of Football Leaks, which published millions of confidential football documents.

Did Rui Pinto expose Manchester City?

His leaked documents helped trigger investigations into Manchester City's finances, but the case was decided by an independent commission.

What happened to Manchester City?

Manchester City were found guilty of serious financial-rule breaches covering nine seasons. The club deny wrongdoing and has appealed.

Why is Rui Pinto losing witness protection?

Portuguese authorities are ending his protection on 10 October 2026. Pinto says he faces serious security threats.

Real Madrid push UEFA to act

In an official statement, Madrid have been pressing UEFA to examine the Negreira case as a matter of urgency.

The complaint filed by our club includes extensive documentation and evidence regarding events of extraordinary seriousness, which directly affect the integrity of the competition and confidence in the refereeing system.

Real Madrid C.F. considers it essential that, now that UEFA has this documentation, the investigation proceeds with the utmost urgency until its full conclusion, and that the competent bodies take the appropriate decisions in accordance with the severity of the verified facts.

The club have also said they will continue cooperating with UEFA and take further action within their power to clarify the circumstances surrounding the payments.

Madrid first submitted a formal document to UEFA in June 2026. At the time, the club said they had provided evidence relating to payments made by Barcelona to Negreira through various corporate structures.

Madrid President Florentino Pérez had previously said they were preparing a substantial dossier for UEFA concerning the case.

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What is the Negreira case?

The Negreira case centres on payments made by Barcelona to companies linked to Negreira, who served as vice-president of Spain's Technical Committee of Referees.

The payments, made over a number of years, have been investigated by Spanish authorities amid questions over the purpose of the relationship and whether the payments could have been connected to attempts to influence refereeing.

Barcelona have consistently denied wrongdoing.

The club have maintained that the payments were for technical reports, refereeing analysis and information about officials rather than for influencing refereeing decisions.

The criminal investigation in Spain remains separate from UEFA's sporting disciplinary process.

Barcelona reject claims that UEFA has reopened the case

Barcelona have strongly disputed reports suggesting that UEFA has reopened or launched a new disciplinary case against the club.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Barcelona said UEFA had not opened new proceedings.

The proceedings began in 2023 with the appointment of two investigators, who have since carried out the actions they deemed necessary.

The UEFA statement confirms receipt of documentation submitted by Real Madrid and that investigators will assess it within the framework of the existing investigation.

The statement explicitly refers, on two occasions, to an ongoing investigation and review. Therefore, it does not announce the opening, reopening, or reactivation of any case, nor does it contain any pronouncement on the substance or value of the submitted documentation.

As of today, they have not made any new requests to Barcelona nor have they forwarded Real Madrid's complaint to the club. When they do, the club will respond appropriately, as it has done thus far.

The club added that the UEFA proceedings remain subject to the outcome of the criminal proceedings in Spain.

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Could Barcelona be banned from UEFA competitions?

A possible UEFA sanction would depend on what the investigators establish and which regulatory provisions UEFA determines have been breached.

UEFA's 2026/27 Champions League regulations contain integrity provisions requiring participating clubs to comply with rules designed to protect the integrity of the competition. The regulations allow UEFA to declare a club ineligible for a season if it concludes, to its "comfortable satisfaction," that the club were directly or indirectly involved in activity aimed at arranging or influencing the outcome of a match.

That does not, however, mean Barcelona are currently facing an automatic ban.

UEFA has not announced a finding that Barcelona influenced match outcomes, nor has it announced a sanction against the club.

The current position is that the investigation remains ongoing and the evidence submitted by Madrid is being assessed. UEFA's disciplinary matters page currently lists the Negreira matter as an ongoing investigation involving Barcelona.

Real Madrid want the case resolved quickly

Madrid's latest statement makes clear that the club want UEFA to move quickly now that the additional documentation has been submitted.

The Spanish giants argue that the evidence concerns the integrity of competition and the credibility of the refereeing system.

Their position is that UEFA should reach a conclusion and allow its competent disciplinary bodies to determine what action, if any, should follow.

Barcelona, meanwhile, are insisting that the reporting around the case should distinguish between an ongoing investigation and a newly opened disciplinary proceeding.

That distinction is significant.

UEFA's latest public wording confirms that the investigation and review are continuing, but it does not announce a new charge, a finding of wrongdoing or a punishment against Barcelona.

What happens next?

The immediate next step is for UEFA's Ethics and Disciplinary Inspectors to assess the material submitted by Madrid.

The Spanish criminal proceedings also remain relevant to UEFA's process.

For now, there has been no UEFA ruling that Barcelona manipulated refereeing decisions, no decision to strip the club of titles and no confirmed expulsion from European competition.

The Negreira investigation therefore remains unresolved.

What happens next will depend on the evidence assessed by UEFA's investigators, the outcome of the proceedings in Spain and any subsequent decision by UEFA's competent disciplinary bodies.

Non-league superfan legally changes name to Dorking Wanderers FC

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 23:00:00 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Keith Thripp legally changed his name to Keith Dorking Wanderers FC Thripp.
The 64-year-old fan had Marc White's signature tattooed onto his leg.
Dorking Wanderers rewarded his loyalty with a signed 2026/27 home shirt.

A Dorking Wanderers supporter has taken his devotion to the National League South club to an extraordinary level after legally changing his name to include the club and having manager Marc White's signature permanently tattooed onto his leg.

Keith Thripp, 64, officially changed his name from Keith Philip Thripp to Keith Dorking Wanderers FC Thripp on 10 September 2026.

The Portsmouth-based painter and decorator told SunSport that the idea came to him one morning whilst preparing for work and looking around his bedroom, which was filled with Dorking memorabilia.

I got up for work one morning, looked at an awful lot of Dorking memorabilia hanging in my bedroom, and thought, "I'm going to change my name to Dorking Wanderers."

He then went online, paid £60 for the deed poll process and made the change official.

From YouTube viewer to Dorking Wanderers superfan

Thripp's connection with Dorking began around three years ago after he discovered the club through their Dorking Uncovered YouTube documentary series.

I had fallen out of love with football until I saw Marc and the Wanderers on YouTube... and that's where it all started for me.

It was just the family atmosphere, the environment, the welcome that you get. Marc comes over and says hello to you. It's about being made to feel appreciated and part of the journey. I love it.

That connection eventually led Thripp to offer his professional skills to the club.

As a painter and decorator, he volunteered his services to help improve areas around Meadowbank and save the club money.

I thought, "I like what this guy's saying," because to me, Marc is like the modern-day Brian Clough.

Because I'm a decorator, I sent them a message saying, "Do you need any help with anything? I'd be more than willing to help free of charge, just to help the club on their journey to the EFL."

Thripp subsequently painted the reception and communal areas at the club.

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Marc White tattoo takes another step

The name change was not the first permanent tribute Thripp had made to the Wanderers.

A year earlier, he had a tattoo of White, the club's founder, chairman and manager.

When Thripp met White at Meadowbank in September, he asked the manager to sign the tattoo.

White duly obliged.

Thripp then went directly to a tattoo artist and had the autograph permanently inked over the existing tattoo.

I got him to autograph it. The same day, I went straight to the tattooist and got that tattooed over!

I sent him a picture and he said, "Oh my Lord, that is next level."

Dorking Wanderers reward their devoted supporter

Thripp was invited to Meadowbank on 24 September to meet the team and watch a training session.

During his visit, he joined the club for an interview before spending time with players and staff.

White reportedly described Thripp as a "legend" and signed the documents as an official witness to his name change.

The club then presented Thripp with a 2026/27 Dorking home shirt signed by the entire squad and White.

Dorking also recognised his extraordinary commitment with what the club described as a historic "lifetime contract" - a fitting gesture for a supporter who has effectively made the Wanderers part of his identity.

Introducing: 'KEITH DORKING WANDERERS FC THRIPP' 🙋‍♂️

Watch as Marc White meets the super fan who changed his name to match the club’s and TATTOOED the Gaffer onto his leg!

Read the full story, link in the replies ⬇️#DWFC | 🔴⚪ pic.twitter.com/FT0kLNvq3U
— Dorking Wanderers FC (@DorkingWDRS) October 1, 2026

A three-hour round trip for every home match

Thripp lives in Portsmouth, meaning his trips to Meadowbank involve a roughly three-hour round journey.

Despite the distance, he says the relationship between supporters, players and staff is what keeps him coming back.

What I like is that there's no "them and us." We're all united together.

The players come to say hello to you, Marc White takes time out to say hello. The standard of football is exciting, fast, and furious.

He also believes Dorking's ambitions make the journey worthwhile.

The club have set their sights on reaching the English Football League, with Thripp determined to remain part of the journey.

They want to be in the EFL in five years and that's their goal. I'm on the journey with them, brother.

For a supporter who has changed his legal name, donated his professional skills and permanently tattooed the manager's signature onto his leg, there is little doubt about just how far that journey has already taken him.

Manchester City Verdict: The biggest bombshells from the Premier League ruling

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 12:16:00 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Independent commission found 114 of 115 charges proven over nine seasons.
The disguised funding scheme involved about £900m in owner-linked funding.
Sanctions are pending and Manchester City have until 2 October 2026 to appeal.

Manchester City have been found guilty of 114 of 115 alleged breaches of Premier League financial rules, following an independent commission's decision covering nine seasons between 2009/10 and 2017/18.

The commission concluded that City used what it described as a "disguised funding scheme" involving Abu Dhabi sponsors and the club's owner, Abu Dhabi United Group (ADUG), to artificially inflate commercial revenue and reduce reported costs by more than £900 million.

The Premier League said the club filed misstated accounts, concealed the true state of their finances from auditors and football regulators, and were significantly in breach of both Premier League and UEFA spending limits.

City deny wrongdoing and have announced that they will appeal, arguing that the commission's opinion contains material errors of law, principle and fact.

Importantly, no sporting sanction has yet been imposed. The question of punishment will be considered separately after the liability decision and will remain confidential until publication is permitted under the Premier League's rules.

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What the Manchester City financial verdict found

Reports following publication of the commission's redacted core decision say City were found guilty of 114 of the 115 charges brought against them.

The Premier League's own statement does not use that numerical formulation, but confirms that all charges concerning serious financial breaches were upheld and that three of four alleged breaches relating to co-operation with the investigation were proven.

The findings cover the period from 2009/10 to 2017/18, when the commission concluded that City used a number of arrangements to present a stronger financial position than actually existed.

The Premier League said the club entered into commercial agreements that were "sham" arrangements, meaning they did not reflect the true agreement between the parties. The commission found that these arrangements artificially increased revenue and reduced costs, helping City appear to comply with financial regulations.

The commission also found that City submitted accounts that did not accurately represent their financial position and that the club subsequently committed multiple breaches of their duties to co-operate with the Premier League investigation.

The €1.11bn sponsorship figure at the centre of the case

One of the most significant findings concerns sponsorship income recorded between 2009/10 and 2017/18.

City recorded £949.94 million in commercial sponsorship income from Abu Dhabi-linked sponsors over the nine-season period.

According to the commission's findings, only £119.25 million was actually paid by the sponsors as genuine base-fee payments.

The remaining £830.69 million was funded by ADUG, the group that owned City, and was recorded as commercial sponsorship revenue.

Manchester City Sponsorship Figures, 2009/10 to 2017/18

Season	Recorded Sponsorship	Amount Actually Paid
2009/10	£27.00m	£4.50m
2010/11	£41.25m	£12.75m
2011/12	£86.75m	£16.00m
2012/13	£121.75m	£16.00m
2013/14	£127.50m	£16.00m
2014/15	£123.20m	£16.00m
2015/16	£136.17m	£16.00m
2016/17	£140.59m	£11.00m
2017/18	£145.73m	£11.00m
Total	£949.94m	£119.25m

Figures are based on the amounts cited in the independent commission's findings.

The difference between the recorded sponsorship income and the money actually paid by sponsors was central to what the commission called the Disguised Funding Scheme.

The Premier League said the arrangements meant sponsors only paid part of the stated fees, with the remainder funded by ADUG. The commission concluded that the purpose was to artificially inflate City's revenues and reduce costs so that the club appeared to comply with financial rules.

Project Longbow and the Fordham Arrangement

Another major element of the findings relates to Project Longbow, launched by City in 2012 as a multi-strand effort to increase revenue and reduce losses.

The commission accepted that many parts of Project Longbow were genuine and legitimate attempts to improve the club's finances.

However, it found that one part was not: the Fordham Arrangement.

Fordham was a third-party entity involved in acquiring City’s entitlement to revenue from players' image rights. The commission concluded that the arrangement was effectively a front funded by ADUG.

The findings stated that the arrangement had two important effects: it allowed owner funding to appear as operating income whilst also reducing the costs recorded by the club.

The commission found that approximately £24.5 million was wrongly recorded as operating income through the arrangement, whilst around £49.4 million of operating expenses were wrongly excluded.

These figures formed part of the wider calculation of how the arrangements distorted City's reported financial position.

The commission also examined hidden payments

The case was not limited to sponsorship revenue.

The commission considered several remuneration arrangements involving payments made through third parties. Reporting on the redacted decision says three such arrangements involved approximately £8.87 million, £7.4 million and £0.5 million.

The commission found that payments had been structured in ways that meant they were not properly reflected in the club's official reporting.

The decision also contained severe criticism of evidence given by some City witnesses. Reporting on the judgment says the commission found that certain witnesses gave evidence they knew to be untrue and had therefore acted dishonestly. Several names and identities remain redacted from the published version of the decision.

A nine-year financial distortion

The Premier League said the combined arrangements artificially inflated City's revenues and reduced costs by more than £900 million over the affected period.

A separate analysis of the published core decision calculated the overall profit-and-loss misstatement at approximately £921 million, once both overstated income and understated costs are considered.

The distinction matters because the Premier League's headline figure of more than £900 million covers the combined effect of the schemes, whilst the larger detailed figure represents the calculated accounting impact across income and expenses.

The commission also concluded that, had the agreements been reported accurately, City would have breached both Premier League and UEFA spending limits by a substantial amount.

The case took years to reach a verdict

The Premier League began investigating City in December 2018, before formally issuing its complaint under Section W of the league's rules in February 2023.

The independent commission then held a 42-day hearing between September and December 2024.

The proceedings involved extensive documentary evidence and expert material. The commission said the verbatim transcripts of witness and expert evidence ran to approximately 7,000 pages, whilst detailed written submissions from the parties were also considered.

The Premier League subsequently published a redacted version of the commission's core decision on 29 September 2026.

The full decision and supporting appendices have not yet been made public in their entirety because confidentiality restrictions remain in place.

Manchester City will appeal the decision

City responded strongly to the commission's findings.

In their official statement, the club said they were "disappointed and surprised" by the decision, maintained that they were innocent of the accusations and said they possessed extensive evidence supporting their position.

City also argued that the commission's opinion contained material errors of law, principle and fact, and said they would pursue the available appeal mechanisms.

The club have until Friday, 2 October 2026 to exercise their right of appeal.

The appeal is therefore an important part of the next stage of the case. The commission's findings represent a first-instance decision and remain subject to challenge through the Premier League's appeal process.

What happens to Manchester City now?

The immediate issue is not relegation or a points deduction, because no sanction has yet been announced.

The Premier League says the sanction will be considered separately by the independent commission. Under the league's rules, the commission has a broad range of potential sanctions available, including fines, points deductions and other sporting penalties.

The exact punishment will therefore depend on the separate sanction process and any outcome of City's appeal.

That distinction is particularly important for supporters and rival clubs: the finding of liability has been published, but the final sporting consequences have not.

FAQ

What were Manchester City found guilty of?

Manchester City were found guilty of 114 of 115 reported charges involving financial reporting, sponsorship funding and co-operation with the Premier League.

How much money was involved?

The Premier League said the schemes inflated revenue and reduced costs by more than £900m.

Have Manchester City been relegated?

No. The sanction has not yet been decided. Possible penalties include fines, points deductions and other sporting sanctions.

Can Manchester City appeal?

Yes. Manchester City have the right to appeal the commission's findings and have until 2 October 2026 to exercise that right.

Everything you need to know about Arsenal 2026/27 kits

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 13:41:23 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Arsenal's home kit celebrates 20 years at Emirates Stadium.
The away shirt reworks the iconic 1991-93 Bruised Banana design.
The yellow third kit features a modernised lightning-bolt graphic.

Arsenal and adidas have unveiled their complete 2026/27 kit collection, bringing together three very different designs that draw heavily on the club's history.

The home shirt marks 20 years since Arsenal moved from Highbury to Emirates Stadium, whilst the away kit revisits one of the most recognisable designs in the club's history: the famous 1991-93 Bruised Banana.

The third shirt takes another trip into Arsenal's archive, bringing back the club's traditional yellow with a modernised lightning-bolt graphic.

The collection also arrives after Arsenal's men's team won the 2025/26 Premier League title, their first league championship since 2003/04.

Here's everything you need to know about the Arsenal 2026/27 kits, including the design inspiration, release dates, prices and where fans can buy them.

Arsenal 2026/27 home kit

Arsenal's 2026/27 home shirt keeps the club's traditional red-and-white identity but adds details inspired by the architecture of Emirates Stadium.

The shirt features a red body with crisp white accents, whilst the collar and cuffs incorporate bespoke artwork based on the stadium's distinctive shapes and rooflines. adidas says the design celebrates two decades of Arsenal's modern home.

That gives the shirt a relatively traditional first impression, with the stadium references becoming more apparent in the finer details.

The home kit is completed by white shorts with red detailing and red socks, maintaining Arsenal's familiar matchday colour combination.

For the performance version, adidas uses its CLIMACOOL technology, designed to manage sweat and provide cooling and breathability during matches.

The home shirt was officially released on 15 May 2026.

🛒 Shop the Arsenal 2026/27 Home Kit

Arsenal 2026/27 away kit

Arsenal's away kit takes a much more obvious trip into the club's archives.

The design reimagines the famous 1991-93 Bruised Banana shirt, one of Arsenal's most recognisable kits.

Rather than simply reproducing the original, adidas has flipped the concept into a contemporary design. The 2026/27 version uses a Collegiate Navy base, with the distinctive geometric graphic appearing in yellow and additional red detailing around the shirt.

The design also brings back the adidas Trefoil and Arsenal cannon, reinforcing the retro influence whilst keeping the shirt firmly rooted in the modern era.

Arsenal described the new shirt as a way of revisiting the stories and memories associated with the original design, whilst connecting them with a new generation of supporters.

The away collection is paired with matching navy shorts and socks.

The away kit was officially unveiled on 24 July 2026 and was made available through Arsenal's retail channels.

🛒 Shop the Arsenal 2026/27 Away Kit

Arsenal 2026/27 third kit

The third kit continues Arsenal's long association with yellow shirts, but gives the traditional colour a more contemporary treatment.

The shirt uses a predominantly yellow base, with an engineered lightning-bolt graphic running through the design. adidas describes the shirt as a celebration of Arsenal's heritage and club identity.

The lightning graphic is particularly significant because it draws on imagery associated with Arsenal's history whilst being reworked into a modern pattern.

The result is considerably more expressive than the home shirt, whilst still using a colour that has appeared on several memorable Arsenal kits over the years.

The third kit was officially launched for the 2026/27 season in August 2026, with Arsenal promoting the release around its "Arsenal State of Mind" campaign.

🛒 Shop the Arsenal 2026/27 Third Kit

The story behind Arsenal's 2026/27 kits

The three shirts tell different parts of Arsenal's story.

The home kit looks towards the club's modern identity. Its Emirates Stadium references commemorate 20 years at the ground, connecting the shirt to the home where Arsenal have played since 2006.

The away kit looks further back, revisiting the 1991-93 Bruised Banana era. Rather than producing a straightforward replica, adidas has reworked the distinctive pattern with a navy base and modern construction.

The third kit takes inspiration from Arsenal's long association with yellow and incorporates a lightning-bolt graphic into the fabric.

Together, the collection covers three different aspects of the club's visual history: Emirates Stadium, the Bruised Banana and Arsenal's yellow heritage.

Arsenal's new kits arrive as Premier League champions

The timing gives the 2026/27 collection additional context.

Arsenal won the 2025/26 Premier League title, securing their 14th top-flight championship.

That means the new shirts are being released for Arsenal's first season as reigning Premier League champions since the club's 2003/04 title-winning campaign.

The 2026/27 home shirt is therefore more than a standard seasonal redesign: it combines the 20th anniversary of Emirates Stadium with the beginning of another campaign following a major domestic title win.

Quick comparison of Arsenal's 2026/27 kits

Category	Home	Away	Third
Primary colour	Red	Collegiate Navy	Yellow
Main inspiration	20 years at Emirates Stadium	1991-93 Bruised Banana	Arsenal's yellow heritage
Key graphic	Stadium-inspired detailing	Bruised Banana geometric pattern	Lightning-bolt graphic
Style	Classic and contemporary	Retro-inspired	Heritage-inspired
Replica price	US$100	US$100	US$100
Authentic price	US$160	US$160	US$160

Where to buy Arsenal's 2026/27 kits

Fans can buy the new Arsenal shirts through official Arsenal and adidas retail channels, as well as licensed retailers.

For international supporters, Fanatics currently stocks the 2026/27 home, away and third shirts, including replica, authentic, women's, youth and personalised options.

🛒 Shop Arsenal 2026/27 Kits at Fanatics

How modern football stars built global brands

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 10:05:41 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Footballers have become powerful personal brands beyond the pitch.
David Beckham helped redefine the commercial potential of football stars.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and others now build businesses across multiple industries.

From footwear and fragrances to podcasts, fashion and energy drinks, modern football stars have ventured into almost every corner of the global consumer market.

In the 21st century, the biggest names in the game enjoy a level of fame that would have been difficult to imagine a few decades ago. Their performances may belong to a club for 90 minutes at a time, but their identities, audiences and personal brands can extend far beyond the football pitch.

For the most recognisable players, that has created an entirely new commercial opportunity.

How the Premier League helped change football

The arrival of the Premier League in 1992 was an important moment in football's commercial evolution.

By the end of the 1990s, leading English players were becoming international celebrities rather than simply successful footballers. One of the clearest examples was David Beckham.

The former Manchester United and England midfielder became a global icon whose influence stretched well beyond his performances on the pitch.

Beckham's appearance, fashion choices and hairstyles generated almost as much conversation as his football. His famous free-kicks, dramatic moments for club and country and distinctive image combined to create a highly marketable personal brand.

That helped break down the traditional boundary between footballer and celebrity.

Footballers became brands in their own right

Today, social media has accelerated that transformation.

Most professional athletes have direct access to fans through platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and X. That gives players something previous generations never had: their own global publishing and marketing channels.

Instead of depending entirely on clubs, newspapers or broadcasters to reach an audience, footballers can communicate directly with millions of people.

For the biggest stars, those audiences can be enormous.

That makes a player's personal identity commercially valuable. Sponsorships and endorsement deals are no longer simply about putting a footballer next to a product. Brands are increasingly buying access to the player's personality, lifestyle, audience and influence.

In some cases, the individual can become almost as recognisable as the club themselves.

Which 2026/27 football shirts actually worth buying?

Which 2026/27 football shirts are worth buying? We rank 10 standout kits for style, heritage, wearability and long-term appeal.

Read This Next →

Why footballers are looking beyond their playing careers

Professional football careers are relatively short.

Cristiano Ronaldo has stretched the conventional definition of longevity, but even the most durable players eventually face retirement. That makes the development of a business career particularly attractive.

For today's stars, maximising income is only part of the equation.

Building a recognisable brand that survives beyond football can provide a much longer commercial runway.

That has encouraged players to explore industries far removed from sport.

Fashion. Beauty. Hospitality. Food and drink. Media. Fitness. Fragrances.

The opportunities are extensive.

Ronaldo and Messi lead football's global brand economy

Ronaldo and Lionel Messi sit at the top of football's commercial hierarchy as well as its sporting history.

Their businesses and partnerships stretch far beyond their respective clubs and playing careers.

Ronaldo's commercial portfolio has included ventures in areas such as hotels, personal care and hair-related businesses, whilst Messi has also developed a wide-ranging commercial presence outside football.

Their enormous global audiences make them particularly attractive to companies looking to attach their products to internationally recognised personalities.

But the business opportunity is not limited to football's two biggest names.

There is plenty of room for other players to build brands of their own.

Fashion is a natural fit for footballers

Fashion has become one of the most obvious areas for footballers looking to expand their commercial presence.

Players already operate under intense public scrutiny when it comes to clothing, hairstyles and personal style. They also tend to have the financial resources to experiment with their appearance and develop distinctive identities.

For some, that interest has evolved into actual business ventures.

Jesse Lingard

Jesse Lingard has explored fashion through his own clothing brand, using the personal image he built during his playing career as a foundation for a separate commercial identity.

Adebayo Akinfenwa

Adebayo Akinfenwa developed the "Beast Mode" persona that became closely associated with his public identity.

The nickname was more than a footballing tag. It became part of the broader brand surrounding the former striker.

Marvin Morgan

Former professional footballer Marvin Morgan also found success in the fashion industry through Fresh Ego Kid, another example of football providing a platform for entrepreneurial opportunities away from the pitch.

Football fame is no longer limited to football

The rise of the footballer-entrepreneur reflects a broader shift in how sporting fame works.

In previous generations, a player's commercial appeal was often closely tied to their club and performances. Today, the strongest personal brands can exist independently of whichever shirt a player happens to wear.

That distinction matters.

A footballer's club career may change several times through transfers, but a well-established personal brand can remain intact.

A player's audience travels with them.

That gives elite footballers an unusual form of commercial leverage. They can move between clubs whilst continuing to develop relationships with fans, sponsors and business partners around the world.

From sponsorships to business ownership

There is also a growing difference between endorsing a product and owning part of the business behind it.

Traditional endorsement deals allow athletes to earn money by promoting established products.

Entrepreneurship goes further.

Players can launch their own labels, invest in companies, create products, develop hospitality ventures or build media platforms. That potentially gives them greater control over their commercial identity whilst creating opportunities that can continue after retirement.

Of course, business ownership also carries risks that endorsement deals do not. A recognisable name can attract attention, but it does not automatically guarantee that a venture will succeed.

That distinction is increasingly important as more athletes move from sponsorship into entrepreneurship.

The modern footballer has become a global business asset

The modern football superstar can now occupy several roles at once: athlete, celebrity, influencer, entrepreneur and brand ambassador.

The Premier League helped accelerate football's global commercial appeal in the 1990s. Social media then gave players direct access to worldwide audiences.

Now, entrepreneurship is taking that evolution another step forward.

The biggest stars are not simply monetising their performances. They are building identities, businesses and commercial networks that can extend well beyond their playing careers.

For footballers at the highest level, the final whistle may therefore be less of an ending than a transition into another career entirely.

FAQ

Why are footballers becoming entrepreneurs?

Footballers can use their fame, audience and personal brands to build businesses that extend beyond their playing careers.

How did David Beckham influence football's commercial growth?

David Beckham became a global celebrity whose fashion, lifestyle and endorsements helped establish the modern footballer as a powerful personal brand.

Which industries do footballers enter outside football?

Common areas include fashion, fragrances, hospitality, fitness, food and drink, media, beauty and consumer products.

Why is social media so valuable to footballers?

It gives players direct access to large audiences, creating opportunities for sponsorships, product launches and businesses.

How Roberto Carlos lost 99% of €155m fortune

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 04:30:00 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Roberto Carlos says he lost 99% of his football earnings.
He blamed problems involving agents and family matters.
The Brazil legend warned young players to protect their wealth.

Brazil and Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos has revealed that he lost 99% of the money he earned during his football career, blaming serious problems involving agents and family matters.

The 53-year-old former left-back made the revelation during an appearance at the Portugal Football Summit, where he spoke about the financial difficulties he experienced after a hugely successful playing career.

Roberto Carlos says he lost almost everything

Carlos is understood to have accumulated substantial wealth during a career that included winning the 2002 FIFA World Cup with Brazil and becoming one of Madrid's most recognisable players.

Reports have previously put his fortune at around €155 million, which is a reported estimate rather than a publicly verified statement of Carlos' actual net worth.

I had problems with people who left me with zero money. Because of agents and family issues, I lost 99% of everything I had earned in football.

Carlos said the financial collapse happened with alarming speed.

On a Thursday, I went to bed at midnight, and on Friday, I received a bunch of papers I didn't even know existed. That's when I lost my entire history.

He did not provide a detailed public breakdown of the assets, legal arrangements or transactions behind the losses.

A warning to younger footballers

Carlos said he had thought carefully about his future after retiring from football.

He obtained a sporting director's licence and worked with brands, believing he had prepared for life beyond the pitch.

Despite those plans, he said serious problems involving a former agent and a family matter left him facing a major financial crisis.

His experience has now become a warning for the next generation of professional footballers.

I made mistakes, and that's why I ask younger players not to make the same mistakes.

From World Cup glory to financial problems

Carlos built his reputation during an extraordinary career that included 11 years at Los Blancos, where he won major domestic and European honours.

He was also part of Brazil's 2002 FIFA World Cup-winning team and later played for Fenerbahçe, Corinthians and Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala.

He also came close to moving to Chelsea in 2007. Carlos later revealed that the transfer was effectively agreed before a contractual issue prevented the deal from being completed, with the defender eventually joining Fenerbahçe instead.

Divorce added to the financial pressure

Carlos' financial problems have emerged alongside significant changes in his personal life.

His marriage to Mariana Luccon ended after more than 15 years, with reports in January 2025 describing a potential dispute over his substantial assets.

Reports at the time also claimed that Carlos had temporarily moved to Madrid's Valdebebas training complex. Carlos rejected claims about his living situation, describing them as false and damaging to him and his family.

Carlos has also been widely reported to have 11 children with seven different women. In July 2026, he married Souhaila Tahiri in a private ceremony.

Carlos says he has rebuilt his life

Despite describing the experience as devastating, Carlos said he has since managed to restructure his life.

He has spoken about using what happened to help younger athletes understand the importance of protecting their finances, choosing professional advisers carefully and preparing properly for life after football.

The lesson is not simply about how much money can be earned in football. It is about what happens to that money once the career ends.

Aedan Scipio's dreadlocks lead to two red cards in bizarre Concacaf clash

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 14:27:00 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Aedan Scipio's dreadlocks caused two Antigua players to be sent off.
Antigua and Barbuda still beat Anguilla 5-0 despite finishing with nine men.
Scipio's ankle-length dreadlocks became the unexpected story of the match.

Aedan Scipio's incredibly long dreadlocks became the unlikely talking point of a one-sided Concacaf Nations League match after two Antigua and Barbuda players were sent off for pulling his hair.

The 36-year-old Anguilla forward came off the bench in the 69th minute against Antigua and Barbuda on Saturday, with his side already trailing 5-0 at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.

What followed turned an otherwise straightforward victory into one of the strangest football stories of the weekend.

Two red cards for pulling the same player's hair

Scipio is instantly recognisable on the pitch because his dreadlocks extend almost to his ankles. Their extraordinary length means he ties them back against his body with a band around his waist whilst playing.

Just minutes after entering the match, Scipio became involved in the first bizarre incident.

Keon Greene, an Antigua and Barbuda substitute, pulled Scipio's dreadlocks whilst trying to stop him after the Anguilla player had won possession.

The referee responded with a straight red card, leaving the hosts with 10 players.

Remarkably, it happened again.

Deep into stoppage time, Shalon Knight grabbed Scipio's hair from behind and pulled him to the ground. Knight was also shown a red card, meaning Antigua and Barbuda finished the match with only nine players.

Despite losing two players, Antigua and Barbuda never surrendered control of the game. They had already established a five-goal advantage during a dominant first half and ultimately completed a 5-0 victory without conceding.

O PODER DO CABELO! 🇦🇮👀

Nas Eliminatórias da Concacaf, Aedan Scipio, jogador de Anguilla famoso pelas suas tranças gigantescas, entrou em campo quando a sua seleção perdia por 5 a 0 para Antígua e Barbuda.

A peculiaridade? Seu cabelo comprido se tornou uma arma inusitada,… pic.twitter.com/ATFPmVOsgi
— Lance! (@lancenet) September 27, 2026

A strange ending to a completely one-sided match

The result had effectively been decided before Scipio entered the pitch.

Christopher Douglas scored in the first minute before Dion Pereira doubled the lead in the 16th minute. Douglas added his second in the 21st minute, whilst D'Andre Bishop and Kayonte George completed the five-goal first half with strikes in the 35th and 43rd minutes.

Scipio's introduction therefore did not change the scoreline, but it dramatically changed the story surrounding the match.

The two incidents involving his hair were separated by more than 20 minutes, yet both resulted in Antigua and Barbuda players being dismissed.

A bizarre night for Scipio

Aedan Scipio's distinctive dreadlocks have attracted plenty of interest before, but rarely have they played such a central role in a competitive match.

On this occasion, two separate attempts to stop him by grabbing his hair ended with two Antigua and Barbuda players receiving red cards.

The final score remained firmly in Antigua and Barbuda's favour, but the unusual scenes ensured that Scipio's hairstyle became the enduring image from a match that, for most of the evening, had been completely one-sided.

Andy Carroll reveals sexual assault ordeal and male victims' support

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 07:14:00 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Andy Carroll says men have contacted him with their own sexual assault experiences.
Carroll revealed his 2021 ordeal in his autobiography, Owning It.
He hopes speaking publicly will encourage other men to talk when they are ready.

Former England striker Andy Carroll says he has received an overwhelming number of messages from men sharing their own experiences of sexual assault after he spoke publicly about his ordeal.

The 37-year-old footballer revealed what happened in his autobiography, Owning It, explaining that he was sexually assaulted while asleep in 2021 during his second spell with Newcastle United.

Carroll said the attacker was a "celebrity mate" and a friend of his former partner, who was away at the time.

The man was later convicted in what Carroll described as a "humiliating and horrendous trial." He was sentenced to three years in prison, placed on the sex offenders' register and banned from the village where Carroll lives.

Andy Carroll opens up about sexual assault

Carroll had automatic anonymity as a sexual assault victim and said he made the decision to reveal the incident in his book "at the last minute" after speaking with his current girlfriend, Lou Teasdale.

He has since explained how difficult it was to discuss the experience publicly, whilst acknowledging the importance of giving other men the confidence to speak about what they have been through.

It's been incredibly hard for me to speak about what happened. I'm still navigating what I feel comfortable sharing publicly.

Since speaking out, so many men have messaged me about their own experiences.

That has been incredibly powerful and has reminded me just how important it is that men feel able to talk when they're ready.

What Andy Carroll says happened

According to Carroll's account in Owning It, the man invited himself to his home to watch a boxing match.

Carroll said he later went to bed after feeling light-headed, only to wake up and find the visitor sexually assaulting him.

He ordered the man to leave the property. When he attempted to return, Carroll said he struck him, knocking him unconscious.

The former Premier League striker said the incident had a profound impact on his life, including his ability to concentrate on football.

What happened to me affected every facet of my life. I'd think about it every day, making it difficult to focus on anything else, including football.

The trauma of what happened to me hasn't gone away.

Carroll hopes speaking out will help other men

Despite finding the experience difficult to discuss, Carroll said he believes speaking publicly could help others who have experienced sexual assault.

He acknowledged that it was frightening to revisit the incident but said it had ultimately shaped who he is today.

Scary to talk about but it's made [me] the person I am today as much as any of the good stuff.

And if me talking about it helps just one person, then good. It will have been worth it.

His decision to speak openly about his experience has also prompted other men to contact him about their own experiences, highlighting how sexual assault can affect male victims as well as women.

Why Kylian Mbappé left Nike for On's football revolution

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 19 Sep 2026 11:46:53 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Kylian Mbappé has ended his long-running Nike partnership to join Swiss brand On.
Thierry Henry has been appointed On's Director of Football.
On will launch its first football products in 2027 using LightSpray technology.

Kylian Mbappé has ended his long-running partnership with Nike and joined Swiss sportswear brand On, giving the fast-growing company a major statement signing as it prepares to enter football.

The Real Madrid and France star, who began working with Nike as a child, will become a global ambassador for On and play an active role in developing its future football products.

On says its first football products will be available in 2027 through On.com, On stores and selected retail partners.

Why has Mbappé joined On?

Mbappé's move represents a significant change for a player who has been associated with Nike for around two decades.

Rather than simply becoming the face of another boot range, however, Mbappé is expected to have a hands-on role in On's football project.

According to On, he will work directly with its product teams, bringing his experience as an elite player into the development and testing of future football footwear and apparel. He will also represent the brand beyond football, covering areas including performance, movement and contemporary design.

Mbappé said the opportunity to help create something new was a major attraction.

We're bringing one shared dream to life, and I can't wait for everyone to see what we're building together.

The partnership also follows the model On has established in other sports, particularly through its long-term relationship with tennis star Roger Federer.

Which 2026/27 football shirts actually worth buying?

Which 2026/27 football shirts are worth buying? We rank 10 standout kits for style, heritage, wearability and long-term appeal.

Read This Next →

Who are On?

On is a Swiss sportswear company founded in Zürich in 2010 by former professional triathlete Olivier Bernhard, together with David Allemann and Caspar Coppetti.

The brand initially made its name in running with its distinctive CloudTec technology before expanding into other areas of performance footwear and apparel.

Its rise has been built around a combination of technical innovation, athlete partnerships and a strong emphasis on contemporary design. The company is now attempting to apply that formula to football.

On's football launch is therefore more than the introduction of another boot. The company is positioning football as a new category in which it can combine its existing technology with player-led product development.

Thierry Henry takes charge of On Football

One of the most significant elements of the launch is the appointment of Thierry Henry as On's Director of Football.

The former Arsenal and France forward has already been working with the company behind the scenes since late 2025, helping establish its approach to football, player relationships and product development.

Henry's role gives On an experienced football figure at the centre of its new division.

Rather than simply using a former player as a brand ambassador, On says Henry has been involved in the development of its football strategy and product approach.

His focus will include player relationships, product direction and ensuring that the company's technology is developed around the practical demands of the modern game.

What is LightSpray technology?

LightSpray is one of the key technologies On hopes will differentiate its football boots.

The manufacturing process uses a robotic system to spray a continuous filament onto a shoe, creating a lightweight, seamless upper. On says the technology can reduce a traditionally multi-part manufacturing process to minutes whilst producing an upper designed to provide a close, barefoot-style feel.

The company is now adapting LightSpray specifically for football.

That includes testing football-specific elements such as stud configurations and fits designed around the dynamic movements required on the pitch. On says both laced and non-laced versions are being tested.

The technology has already become closely associated with On's wider footwear innovation. Its challenge now is proving that the same manufacturing philosophy can translate successfully from running to elite football.

Sydney Schertenleib joins the project

On's football strategy is not limited to the men's game.

Swiss international and Barcelona player Sydney Schertenleib has joined Mbappé and Henry in helping develop the company's football products.

On says Schertenleib will provide direct insight into the women's game and help challenge, improve and refine its future products. The company describes her as its first female ambassador for On Football.

That gives the brand three different perspectives at the product-development stage: Mbappé's experience as an elite men's player, Henry's experience as a former international and coach, and Schertenleib's perspective from the women's game.

Can On challenge Nike and adidas?

Breaking into football will be a different challenge from building a successful running business.

Nike and adidas have spent decades developing football boots, sponsoring elite players and clubs, and building enormous global distribution networks. Puma is another established competitor, whilst brands including Under Armour, New Balance and Skechers have also attempted to gain ground in the category.

On is taking a different route.

Instead of entering the market with an established football range and gradually building its athlete roster, the company has started with one of the world's most recognisable players and a product-development strategy centred on new technology.

Mbappé's involvement gives On immediate visibility. Henry adds football expertise, whilst Schertenleib gives the company a direct connection to the women's game.

The harder test will come when players can actually buy and use the products in competitive football.

On's first football products are scheduled to arrive in 2027, meaning the company still has time to refine the technology before its wider commercial launch.

What comes next for On?

On's ambitions appear to extend beyond football boots.

The company has confirmed that it is developing football products across footwear and apparel, although the initial focus is clearly on its first football boots.

For Mbappé, the partnership also creates an opportunity to influence the products he wears rather than simply endorse an existing range.

For On, meanwhile, signing Mbappé gives its new football division a powerful global platform from day one.

The company has already disrupted established sportswear categories through its running technology and athlete-led approach. Football will be a considerably larger and more entrenched market to enter.

Whether On can turn its technological ambitions into a serious football business will become clearer once its first products reach the market in 2027.

For now, one thing is clear: On has chosen to enter football with one of the biggest names in the sport at the centre of its strategy.

Oxford United apologise after 'United 93' merchandise sparks 9/11 backlash

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 19 Sep 2026 08:13:33 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Oxford United withdrew their "United 93" Campus Collection after criticism.
The number 93 was intended to reference the club's 1893 founding year.
The club apologised and said their merchandise approval process will be reviewed.

Oxford United have apologised after launching a merchandise collection featuring the words "United 93," a phrase that carries an unmistakable association with United Airlines Flight 93 and the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

The League One club withdrew the Campus Collection after criticism emerged over the timing and wording of the range, which drew attention because it was released close to the 25th anniversary of 9/11.

The collection featured American-inspired sportswear, including football- and baseball-style shirts, with "United 93" appearing on the back of one of the designs.

The reference was not intended to relate to the attacks. Instead, 93 referred to the year 1893, when the club was originally founded as Headington FC. Oxford United's official history confirms that the club were formed in 1893 before becoming Headington United and later changing their name to Oxford United in 1960.

Nevertheless, the combination of the words "United" and "93" created an obvious association with Flight 93, particularly given the proximity to the 9/11 anniversary.

What happened with the 'United 93' shirts?

The timing quickly became an issue.

The 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks fell on 11 September 2026, with the collection attracting scrutiny around the same period.

The controversy centred on the historical meaning attached to United Airlines Flight 93, one of four commercial aircraft hijacked during the 2001 attacks.

According to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, 19 al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked four planes that morning. Two were deliberately flown into the World Trade Center towers, another struck the Pentagon, whilst Flight 93 crashed into a field in Pennsylvania after passengers and crew fought back against the hijackers.

There were 44 people aboard Flight 93, including the four hijackers. Forty passengers and crew members were killed. The wider September 11 attacks killed 2,977 people, excluding the 19 hijackers from that official victim count.

Oxford avait lancé cette collection le 11 septembre, date de l'attaque sur New York impliquant notamment le détournement par des terroristes de l'avion "United Airlines Flight 93"... https://t.co/BODCzB6yq0 pic.twitter.com/CToehYBqDR
— Olivier Laval (@olivierlaval27) September 18, 2026

Oxford United accept responsibility

Oxford United subsequently issued an apology and removed the entire collection from sale.

The range was released without understanding of the historical context and associations.

It should not have reached the point of sale and we take full responsibility for not undertaking proper due diligence.

We have removed the collection with immediate effect and are reviewing our approval processes to ensure nothing like this happens again.

The statement did not suggest that the design was intended as a reference to the 9/11 attacks. Rather, the club attributed the incident to a failure of due diligence in assessing the wider context surrounding the wording.

Why 'United 93' has such a strong association

Flight 93 occupies a distinctive place in the history of 9/11.

The aircraft was travelling from Newark, New Jersey, to San Francisco when it was hijacked. Investigations and historical accounts have established that the hijackers intended to use the aircraft as part of the wider attack, with Washington, DC, believed to have been the intended destination.

Passengers and crew became aware of the broader attacks and attempted to regain control of the aircraft. Flight 93 ultimately crashed near Shanksville in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, before reaching its intended target.

The site is now home to the Flight 93 National Memorial, whilst the passengers and crew are commemorated as part of the wider remembrance of those killed on 11 September 2001.

The phrase "United 93" also became widely recognised beyond the flight itself through the 2006 film United 93, which dramatised the events aboard the aircraft.

A merchandising mistake with a clear lesson

For Oxford United, the incident highlights the potential risks involved when historic club references are combined with contemporary branding concepts.

The club's founding year is a legitimate and well-established part of its identity. However, when that number was presented as "United 93," the wording created an entirely different cultural reference - one that was particularly prominent during the 25th-anniversary commemorations.

The episode is therefore less about the original historical intention behind "93" and more about how seemingly straightforward branding can acquire a very different meaning when placed in a wider historical context.

For a football club selling merchandise internationally, that context can matter just as much as the design itself.

Everything you need to know about Manchester United 2026/27 kits

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 13:47:02 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Manchester United's home shirt brings back a classic 1970s-inspired look.
The royal-blue away kit draws on the club's historic colours.
The third kit celebrates Manchester's community and creative culture.

Manchester United have taken three distinctly different approaches to their adidas kits for the 2026/27 season.

The home shirt looks back to the club's 1970s heritage, the away kit revives a familiar royal-blue identity with a modern graphic, whilst the third kit shifts the focus from football history to the culture and community of Greater Manchester.

The result is a collection that gives each shirt its own story rather than simply changing the colour between designs.

Here is everything you need to know about United's 2026/27 home, away and third kits, including their inspiration, key details and where to buy them.

Manchester United 2026/27 home kit

United's 2026/27 home shirt is a deliberate return to one of the club's most recognisable visual eras.

Released on 14 May 2026, the adidas design takes inspiration from the 1970s, particularly the style associated with the shirt worn during United's 1977 FA Cup triumph. The result is a much more traditional-looking home shirt than the club has used in recent seasons.

The foundation is a clean devil-red base, with a classic fold-over polo collar and striped cuffs bringing the retro character to the forefront. White adidas three stripes run along the shoulders, whilst black detailing provides a restrained contrast against the red.

There is also a small but effective heritage detail at the back of the neck: a "UNITED" scroll, inspired by the terrace banners associated with generations of Stretford End supporters. Tonal patterning knitted into the fabric adds some contemporary texture without disturbing the overall classic silhouette.

So whilst the shirt clearly belongs to the 2026/27 season, the first impression is unmistakably old-school United.

Home kit details

Base colour: Devil red
Collar: Fold-over polo collar
Details: White and black tipping, white adidas three stripes
Back-neck detail: 'UNITED' scroll
Technology: adidas Climacool
Material: 100% recycled polyester
Fit: Regular fit

The replica shirt also features ventilated mesh panels and a sewn-on club crest, making it more suited to everyday supporter wear than the slimmer authentic version.

Where to buy the Manchester United 2026/27 home shirt

Replica version: Manchester United adidas 2026/27 Home Replica Jersey

Authentic version: Manchester United 2026/27 Home Authentic Jersey

Manchester United 2026/27 away kit

The away shirt heads in a very different direction.

Built around a striking royal blue base, the 2026/27 away kit revisits one of the club's familiar historical colour combinations whilst giving it a much more contemporary finish.

The design draws inspiration from the 1988 away kit, with the blue base paired with an engineered wavy stripe pattern. The graphic is intended to echo the flow of the River Irwell, linking the shirt's modern texture back to the landscape around the club.

Red and white detailing on the collar and cuffs keeps the shirt connected to United's traditional identity, preventing the blue base from looking disconnected from the club.

The replica version uses a regular fit and adidas Climacool technology, with a sewn-on crest and embroidered adidas branding.

The overall effect is less nostalgic than the home shirt. Instead of reproducing an old United design, adidas has taken a historical reference and turned it into something that feels more current.

Away kit details

Base colour: Royal blue
Graphic: Engineered wavy tonal stripes
Inspiration: 1988 away kit and River Irwell
Details: Red and white collar and cuff accents
Technology: adidas Climacool
Material: 100% recycled polyester
Fit: Regular fit

Where to buy the Manchester United 2026/27 away shirt

Replica version: Manchester United adidas 2026/27 Away Replica Jersey

Authentic version: Manchester United 2026/27 Away Authentic Jersey

Manchester United 2026/27 third kit

The third shirt is the most adventurous of the collection.

Rather than concentrating on famous teams or trophies from United's past, the design is presented as a tribute to Manchester's community, drawing on youth culture, local institutions and the city's creative identity.

The base is a soft cream/ivory, overlaid with a hand-drawn rose graphic. The tonal rose print and back-neck banner are designed to reflect the community and culture behind the club's supporter base.

The inspiration includes Salford Lads and Girls Club, a particularly notable Manchester reference that connects the shirt to a real local institution rather than simply using generic city imagery.

The result is much more fashion-led than the home shirt. It does not immediately look like a conventional football kit, which is arguably the point.

Third kit details

Base colour: Cream
Graphic: Hand-drawn tonal rose print
Inspiration: Manchester community, local culture and youth institutions
Key reference: Salford Lads and Girls Club
Details: Contrast collar and cuffs, back-neck sign-off
Technology: adidas Climacool on the replica
Material: 100% recycled polyester
Fit: Regular fit

Where to buy the Manchester United 2026/27 third shirt

Replica version: Manchester United adidas 2026/27 Third Replica Jersey

Authentic version: Manchester United 2026/27 Third Authentic Jersey

Replica vs Authentic: Which should you buy?

The difference is worth considering before spending more on the authentic shirt.

The replica is aimed at supporters and offers a regular fit with sewn-on club and adidas detailing. It is designed to be comfortable for everyday wear as well as matchdays.

The authentic version is closer to the shirt worn by the players, with a more streamlined fit and performance-focused construction.

For most fans, the replica is the better-value option. The authentic version makes more sense for collectors or supporters who specifically want the closest retail equivalent to the on-pitch shirt.

Which Manchester United 2026/27 kit is the best?

There is no objective winner, but each shirt is targeting a different type of supporter.

Best for tradition: Home kit.
The 1970s styling, polo collar and 1977 reference give it the strongest connection to United's football heritage.

Best for everyday wear: Away kit.
The royal blue colour and restrained tonal pattern make it distinctive without becoming difficult to style.

Best for collectors: Third kit.
The Manchester-specific inspiration and hand-drawn rose pattern make it the most unusual design of the three.

From a design standpoint, the home shirt is the safest, the away shirt is the most versatile, and the third shirt is the biggest statement.

The verdict

United and adidas have avoided giving supporters three versions of the same idea for 2026/27.

Instead, the collection has a clear structure.

The home shirt looks back to the 1970s and celebrates the 50th anniversary of the 1977 FA Cup triumph.

The away shirt resurrects a royal-blue identity associated with United's past, whilst its wave pattern adds a modern reference to the River Irwell.

The third kit is the most ambitious, using Manchester's community culture, architecture and visual identity as its starting point.

That distinction is what makes the collection work. Whether you prefer traditional football shirts or something more fashion-forward, there is a clearly defined option rather than three interchangeable designs.

Bayern Munich 2026/27 Oktoberfest Kit: The boldest Wiesn jersey yet

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 13:00:00 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Bayern Munich's 2026/27 Wiesn jersey features a colourful floral design on black.
The special shirt is due to debut against Union Berlin on 18 September.
The wider Oktoberfest collection includes jackets, cardigans, shorts and more.

Bayern Munich have unveiled their new 2026/27 Oktoberfest kit, and this year's Wiesn jersey takes a much more colourful approach than many of its predecessors.

The German giants have made their Oktoberfest shirt an annual tradition since the 2021/22 season, turning the special release into one of the most distinctive pieces of the club's yearly adidas collection.

For 2026, Bayern and adidas have moved away from the restrained cream, green and gold aesthetic seen previously and embraced the colour, energy and exuberance associated with Munich's famous festival.

The result is a black jersey covered by an abstract floral graphic, with bursts of red, white, blue, yellow and green creating a painterly effect across the shirt.

And rather than simply adding a small Oktoberfest reference to a conventional Bayern design, this time the Wiesn aesthetic is the main event.

Bayern Munich's 2026/27 Wiesn jersey

The new shirt begins with a black base, which is almost completely transformed by an expressive floral pattern.

The artwork uses bold, blurred-looking flowers in several bright colours, giving the jersey an appearance closer to contemporary artwork than a traditional football shirt.

Off-white adidas stripes run across the shoulders, providing a cleaner contrast against the busy graphic, whilst the collar and sleeve cuffs use solid colours to give the design some structure.

On the chest, Bayern have once again used the specially designed FC Bayern Wiesn emblem, accompanied by the adidas Originals Trefoil. The official Oktoberfest logo is also placed on the back of the neck.

🛒Shop the Bayern Munich 2026/27 Wiesn Jersey

A floral design inspired by the Wiesn

According to adidas, the floral graphic is a modern interpretation of traditional floral elements associated with the Wiesn and Bavarian culture.

The various colours are intended to represent the different facets of Oktoberfest and the lively atmosphere Munich takes on during the festival season.

Bayern have similarly described the jersey as a meeting point between traditional Munich style and a more modern, confident visual identity.

That makes the 2026/27 edition considerably louder than last season's shirt.

Bayern Munich 2026 Oktoberfest collection

The jersey is only part of the new Bayern Wiesn range.

The club have also launched a broader lifestyle collection featuring complementary Oktoberfest pieces, including:

Wiesn shorts
A matching cardigan
A black jacket inspired by traditional trachten style
Oktoberfest socks
Traditional-style trousers
Women's dirndl pieces
Additional Bayern Wiesn apparel

The official Bayern store currently lists men's, women's and children's jerseys alongside several pieces from the wider collection.

This continues Bayern's approach of treating the Oktoberfest release as more than a match shirt, with the collection designed to work across football, streetwear and traditional Bavarian influences.

Where to buy the Bayern Munich 2026/27 Oktoberfest jersey

The new Wiesn jersey is available through the official FC Bayern online store and Bayern stores.

Fanatics is also stocking the shirt in the United States under the product name Bayern Munich adidas 2026/27 Fourth Replica Jersey - Black.

Fanatics currently lists the replica at $100, with sizes from S to 2XL displayed and the product marked as in stock. The retailer describes it as an officially licensed adidas replica featuring Climacool technology, a sewn-on club crest and sublimated artwork.

🛒Buy the Bayern Munich 2026/27 Oktoberfest Jersey at Fanatics

When will Bayern debut the 2026/27 Wiesn kit?

Bayern are scheduled to wear the new Oktoberfest shirt for the first time against Union Berlin at the Allianz Arena on Friday, 18 September 2026.

The Bundesliga fixture is scheduled to kick off at 20:30 CEST, one day before the 2026 Oktoberfest officially opens.

That timing is deliberate. Bayern's annual Wiesn shirt traditionally arrives around the opening of the festival, giving the club an opportunity to bring the design onto the pitch as Munich enters Oktoberfest season.

The 2026 Oktoberfest itself officially begins at noon on Saturday, 19 September, and runs through 4 October. The official Munich Oktoberfest site describes this year's event as the 191st Oktoberfest.

The story behind Bayern's Oktoberfest shirts

Bayern's Oktoberfest jerseys have become an established annual tradition rather than an occasional novelty.

Since the 2021/22 season, the club have released a dedicated Wiesn shirt, with each edition taking a slightly different approach to Bavarian culture and the relationship between Bayern and their home city.

The 2025 edition leaned heavily into heritage, whilst the 2026 jersey takes a much more graphic approach.

The progression is easy to see.

Instead of using Oktoberfest details sparingly, adidas has made the floral artwork the central visual feature of this year's shirt.

Bayern's most colourful Wiesn shirt yet?

The 2026/27 Bayern Oktoberfest jersey represents a clear change in direction.

Previous editions have often used traditional colours, heritage detailing or more restrained graphics. This year's version does almost the opposite, with a black base covered by a vibrant, abstract floral composition.

It is unmistakably designed around the visual energy of the Wiesn.

And with Bayern scheduled to wear it against Union Berlin on the eve of Oktoberfest, the timing could hardly be more appropriate.

For Bayern supporters and football shirt collectors, the 2026/27 Wiesn jersey adds another distinctive chapter to one of the more unusual annual kit traditions in European football.

🛒Shop the Bayern Munich 2026/27 Wiesn Jersey

Why playing deeper makes Harry Kane more dangerous

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 07 Sep 2026 06:05:11 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Harry Kane's deeper role has helped, rather than hindered, his goalscoring.
Bayern Munich use Kane as a flexible No. 9, No. 10 and occasional No. 6.
His movement creates space for team-mates, even when he never touches the ball.

Harry Kane's evolution as a striker has reached an interesting point.

The England captain is no longer simply waiting around the penalty area for chances. At Bayern Munich, he can drop deep enough to collect the ball close to his own box, operate between the lines and then arrive late in dangerous areas.

For a striker whose primary job is supposed to be scoring goals, it sounds counterintuitive.

But Kane has a simple answer to that criticism.

Last season, whilst playing deeper than at any other stage of his career, the Bayern forward scored 73 goals - the highest tally of his career.

So why does moving further from the goal make one of the world's most prolific strikers more dangerous?

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Kane is more than a traditional No. 9

Kane built his reputation as a classic No. 9, particularly during his years at Tottenham Hotspur and with England.

He could hold the ball up, finish chances, bring others into play and punish defenders inside the box. Over time, however, his game has expanded considerably.

At Bayern, Kane is given freedom to roam.

Sometimes he plays as a striker. At other times he drops into a No. 10 position or even deeper, effectively becoming part of the build-up rather than simply waiting for the final pass.

From the outside, those movements can look random.

They are anything but.

Kane is constantly assessing how the opposition is defending and deciding where his movement can cause the greatest problem.

That ability to read the game is at the heart of his role.

Why does Harry Kane drop so deep?

The obvious question is why a striker would voluntarily move away from the goal.

When he drops deep, he gives the opposition a decision to make.

Does a centre-back follow him?

Does a midfielder pick him up?

Or does the defender leave him free to receive the ball and turn?

Each choice can create an opportunity for Bayern.

If a defender follows Kane into midfield, space can open behind him. If a midfielder tracks him, another player can exploit the space that has been vacated.

And if nobody comes, Kane can receive the ball with time to turn and attack.

That is the paradox at the heart of his game.

Kane moves away from the goal in order to make the route back to it easier.

Kane's greatest weapon may be his football brain

Kane has never been known primarily for explosive dribbling.

He has acknowledged that he is not the fastest player, and he does not typically beat opponents through sheer acceleration.

Instead, his dribbling is based on timing, strength and anticipation.

He does not necessarily beat defenders with his feet. He beats them with his decisions.

His ability to anticipate what opponents are about to do allows him to create solutions before they have fully closed him down.

The 50-50 balance between coaching and instinct

Bayern boss Vincent Kompany has described Kane's role as being roughly half-coached and half-driven by the striker's own decisions.

That freedom is important.

Bayern have a defined tactical structure, but Kane is allowed to interpret what is happening in front of him.

He might deliberately drop to see whether a centre-back is willing to follow.

He might go even deeper to test whether the defender will continue tracking him.

Or he may recognise that the opposition has changed shape and immediately move into the space created elsewhere.

That flexibility makes him particularly difficult to defend against.

Why Kane sees himself as a No. 10

Perhaps the most revealing part of Kane's tactical evolution is how he now describes his position.

Rather than thinking purely in terms of a lone No. 9, he sees himself as one of two No. 10s working together.

That distinction changes the way Bayern attack.

Kane and another attacking player can move towards the same side of the pitch and create an overload. The opposition then has to decide who should track them.

If defenders go man-to-man, space can open for Bayern's wingers or full-backs.

If they remain compact, Kane and his attacking partner can combine between the lines.

The structure gives Bayern multiple ways to attack the same defensive problem.

Why a lone No. 9 can be easier to defend

Kane's evolution also reflects a limitation of the traditional lone-striker role.

When a lone No. 9 is isolated, two centre-backs can often share responsibility for him. The striker may struggle to receive the ball, particularly against a compact defence.

Kane's solution is to create another reference point alongside him.

With another attacking player operating close by, the defenders have more decisions to make.

Kane can drop.

His partner can move centrally.

The wingers can push higher.

A full-back can attack the space outside.

Suddenly, the defensive structure has more moving parts to deal with.

For Kane, having someone close also gives him a player to combine with rather than leaving him dependent on the rest of the team to find him.

Dropping deep can actually lead to more goals

Kane explains that when he drops during the build-up, he can naturally arrive in a No. 10 position as the rest of the team moves around him.

From there, he has several options.

He can shoot from the edge of the box, where his technique makes him particularly dangerous.

He can link with a team-mate.

Or he can suddenly run beyond the defence when nobody is tracking him.

That last option is especially important.

Midfielders often find it difficult to follow Kane all the way into the final third before turning and tracking a late run.

By initially moving towards the ball, Kane can disappear from the defender's attention before attacking the space behind him.

It is a movement pattern that helps explain why playing deeper has not prevented him from producing elite goalscoring numbers.

Kane adapts his game to his team-mates

Kane's tactical intelligence is also reflected in how he plays alongside Bayern's younger attacking players.

When players such as Jamal Musiala or Lennart Karl receive the ball between the lines, Kane understands that they are capable of turning, dribbling and attacking defenders themselves.

That changes his priority.

Instead of dropping towards the ball, Kane may stay higher and attack the space behind the defence.

If the team-mate can release him, Kane has a route to goal.

If the team-mate chooses to dribble, Kane's run can still drag a defender away and create more room.

His role, therefore, is not fixed.

It changes according to the strengths of the players around him.

He is not simply trying to impose his own game on the team. He is adjusting it to make the entire attack more effective.

Kane is also handling a more demanding physical role

There is a physical price to playing such a mobile role.

Data from STATSports, a sports technology company in which Kane has invested, found that over the previous six seasons his distance covered increased by 8%, high-speed running by 22% and accelerations by 42%.

That development is especially significant given how modern elite football has changed.

Top European teams increasingly use aggressive man-to-man pressing, often asking players to defend large spaces and compete in individual battles.

That means attackers need to do more than simply finish chances.

They need to move, press, escape pressure and repeatedly attack space.

Kane may not possess the raw speed of some modern forwards, but his understanding of space allows him to operate effectively within that environment.

Harry Kane can be a No. 9, No. 10 and No. 6

Modern football increasingly divides players into highly specific tactical roles.

Kane has moved in the opposite direction.

Depending on the phase of a match, he can function as a No. 9, No. 10 or even a No. 6.

He can drop into his own half to help build an attack, operate between the lines as a creator, or push forward and finish like a conventional striker.

The remarkable part is that these movements do not appear to have compromised his goalscoring.

They may actually be helping it.

The deeper Kane goes, the more decisions he forces defenders to make. And the more decisions they have to make, the greater the chance that one of them gets it wrong.

Harry Kane's evolution is about more than goals

Kane's development at Bayern is a useful reminder that a striker's impact cannot always be measured by where he starts an attack.

He is increasingly using the entire pitch to influence games.

Sometimes he is the player receiving the ball.

Sometimes he is the player making the run.

Sometimes he is the player dragging a defender away so someone else can attack.

And sometimes he does all three within the same sequence.

That flexibility is not random.

It is the product of years of tactical development, an exceptional understanding of space and an ability to read the behaviour of defenders.

And perhaps that is the simplest way to understand Kane's evolution.

He has not moved further away from being a goalscorer. He has learned that sometimes the best way to score is to stop behaving like one.

FAQ

Why does Harry Kane play so deep for Bayern Munich?

Harry Kane drops deep to attract defenders, create space and help Bayern Munich progress the ball before moving into scoring positions.

What position does Harry Kane play at Bayern Munich?

Harry Kane can operate as a No. 9, No. 10 or deeper midfielder depending on the situation and how Bayern Munich's attack develops.

Does Harry Kane scoring less when he plays deeper?

No. The supplied account says Harry Kane scored 73 goals last season, the highest tally of his career, despite playing deeper.

How does Harry Kane create chances without touching the ball?

His runs can drag defenders away, opening space for Bayern Munich's team-mates to receive, dribble or shoot in more dangerous positions.

Which 2026/27 football shirts actually worth buying?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 05 Sep 2026 15:44:12 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Lyon's away shirt is our best all-round 2026/27 buy.
Chelsea and Real Madrid offer the strongest fashion appeal.
Replica shirts can offer better value than expensive authentic versions.

Not every great-looking football shirt deserves your money. Some do.

Every new season brings the same problem: too many shirts, too many launches and too many reasons to spend more than you planned.

There are limited editions, retro reissues, social-media favourites and increasingly expensive authentic versions. Some shirts look incredible in campaign photography but are surprisingly difficult to wear in everyday life.

So, which 2026/27 football shirt is actually worth buying?

We have looked beyond launch-day hype and judged the strongest 2026/27 football shirts on five criteria:

Design. Wearability. Club identity. Originality. Long-term appeal.

The best 2026/27 football shirts to actually buy

10. Inter Milan Away - Best for Fashion-First Buyers

Inter Milan's away shirt deserves attention because it feels almost deliberately designed for life beyond the stadium.

The white base, thin blue pinstripes and updated crest create a clean, retro-inspired look that works particularly well as casual clothing.

The pinstripe concept gives it enough personality to stand out without making the shirt difficult to style.

That makes it particularly appealing to fans who see football shirts as part of their wardrobe rather than something reserved for matchday.

Verdict: One of the best shirts for fashion-first football fans.

🛒Shop Inter Milan 2026/27 Away Kit

9. Aston Villa Home - Best Traditional Design

Aston Villa's home shirt is a good example of why simplicity can outperform complexity.

The classic claret-and-blue identity remains the focus, with heritage-inspired detailing instead of an oversized modern graphic.

There is no attempt to turn the shirt into something it is not.

That gives it a level of longevity that some more elaborate designs lack.

Among the 2026/27 releases, this is one of the better choices for anyone who values club identity over hype.

Verdict: One of the strongest classic football shirt purchases of the season.

🛒Shop Aston Villa 2026/27 Home Kit

8. Manchester United Away - Best Heritage Story

Manchester United in blue might initially seem unusual, but the colour has genuine historical significance within the club's past.

The 2026/27 version combines that heritage with a contemporary adidas design rather than simply reproducing an old shirt.

That makes it a good compromise for supporters who want something more distinctive than the traditional red home shirt whilst retaining a clear connection to United's history.

Verdict: A surprisingly effective alternative to the obvious red shirt.

🛒Shop Manchester United 2026/27 Away Kit

7. Liverpool Away - Best Everyday Shirt

Liverpool's away shirt is less dramatic than some of the season's headline releases. That is precisely why it works.

The predominantly white design, red detailing and subtle historical references give it a clean, versatile look.

You can wear it to a match, a pub, on holiday or simply with jeans without feeling as though you are wearing technical sportswear.

That is an underrated quality.

A shirt that looks spectacular but only works on matchday can be exciting. A shirt that works in several different situations is usually the more useful purchase.

Verdict: The practical choice.

🛒Shop Liverpool 2026/27 Away Kit

6. Arsenal Away - Best Nostalgia Buy

Arsenal's away shirt takes inspiration from the famous early-1990s Bruised Banana design.

The clever part is that adidas has not simply reproduced the original. Instead, the concept has been reworked into a contemporary design that keeps the nostalgia whilst making it feel appropriate for 2026/27.

That is a significant advantage over straightforward retro reproductions.

You get the recognition of a classic design without looking as though you have simply bought an old shirt.

Verdict: The nostalgia winner.

🛒Shop Arsenal 2026/27 Away Kit

5. Juventus Home - Best Classic Shirt

Juventus have resisted the urge to overcomplicate things.

The familiar black-and-white stripes remain the centrepiece, whilst gold details around the crest, branding and other elements add a premium finish. The polo-style collar also gives the shirt an old-school feel.

That makes it a useful reminder that classic does not have to mean boring.

A strong traditional shirt does not need an elaborate graphic. Juventus' identity does most of the work here.

Verdict: The safest buy for someone who wants a shirt that will age well.

🛒Shop Juventus 2026/27 Home Kit

4. Real Madrid Away - Best Luxury Look

Real Madrid's dark-green away shirt is one of the season's most sophisticated designs.

It moves well away from the club's famous white home identity, whilst the subtle geometric treatment adds texture without overwhelming the shirt. The adidas Trefoil strengthens the retro-fashion feel.

Most importantly, the darker colour makes it easy to work into an everyday wardrobe. It can sit comfortably alongside jeans, trousers or a jacket without looking out of place.

Verdict: The best choice for fans buying with fashion in mind.

🛒Shop Real Madrid 2026/27 Away Kit

3. Chelsea Away - Best Premium-Looking Shirt

Chelsea's black-and-gold away shirt gets one thing particularly right: restraint.

Rather than covering every part of the shirt with graphics, Nike lets the black base and gold detailing carry the design.

The result feels more like a fashion piece than conventional football merchandise.

There is also a clear historical angle, with the design drawing on Chelsea's return to a black away shirt following the 2016/17 title-winning season.

Verdict: The best football-fashion crossover.

🛒Shop Chelsea 2026/27 Away Kit

2. AC Milan Away - Best for Collectors

AC Milan's away shirt has something many modern releases struggle to create: a genuinely meaningful story.

The design references Milan's 2007 Champions League triumph in Athens, one of the most important moments in the club's European history.

The white base keeps the shirt timeless, whilst the Athens concept gives it emotional weight.

That matters when you are buying as a collector.

A shirt connected to a significant moment in a club's history can remain interesting long after the season itself has been forgotten. Milan's release therefore has value beyond its appearance on launch day.

Verdict: The strongest "I want to remember this season" shirt.

🛒Shop AC Milan 2026/27 Away Kit

1. Lyon Away - Best Overall

Lyon's away shirt is arguably the most complete release of the 2026/27 season.

The burgundy-and-gold colour combination immediately separates it from the familiar sea of red, blue and white. More importantly, the design has a clear connection to Lyon's history as a centre of silk production and craftsmanship.

The adidas Originals-style details, simplified crest and polo collar push it beyond standard football merchandise.

And that is where the shirt really succeeds.

A lot of football shirts look good because they are football shirts. Lyon's looks good even when you take the football context away.

That makes it easier to wear with jeans, trousers or a jacket. It is therefore a particularly strong option for anyone who wants a shirt that works beyond matchday.

Verdict: The smartest one-shirt purchase of the season.

🛒Shop Lyon 2026/27 Away Kit

So, which 2026/27 football shirt should you buy?

The answer is easier when you stop asking:

"Which shirt looks best?"

and start asking:

"What do I want this shirt to do?"

Buy Lyon Away if...

You want one shirt that can do almost everything.

Buy AC Milan Away if...

You want history, emotion and collector appeal.

Buy Chelsea Away if...

You want the most premium-looking football-fashion piece.

Buy Real Madrid Away if...

You want luxury streetwear appeal.

Buy Juventus Home if...

You want a classic shirt that should age well.

Buy Arsenal Away if...

You want nostalgia with a modern execution.

Buy Liverpool Away if...

You want maximum everyday wearability.

Buy Manchester United Away if...

You want a less obvious shirt with a strong heritage connection.

Buy Aston Villa Home if...

You prefer traditional football aesthetics.

Buy Inter Milan Away if...

You want a shirt that works almost as well off the pitch as on it.

Authentic or Replica: Which should you buy?

This is where a lot of fans spend more than they need to.

Official retailers distinguish between authentic or performance versions and replica or stadium versions. The difference can be substantial.

Authentic shirts are designed around player-style fits and technical construction. That makes sense for certain buyers, but those features are less important when the shirt is primarily for casual wear, matchdays or collecting.

The same principle applies across brands. adidas UK's current 2026/27 listings show standard men's shirts at around £85, compared with £120 for selected authentic/player versions.

So:

Do not confuse a higher price with better value.

For most supporters, the better equation is simple:

Replica + your favourite club + a design you will actually wear = better value.

What makes a football shirt worth buying?

A shirt can be visually impressive and still be a poor purchase.

The better test is what happens after the initial excitement disappears.

A shirt is more likely to be worth your money when it has:

Strong design - it looks good without relying entirely on club branding.

Wearability - you can pair it with normal clothes.

Club identity - it feels connected to the club rather than being generic sportswear.

Originality - there is a reason to choose it over dozens of alternatives.

Longevity - you can imagine still wearing it after the season ends.

This is why our list does not simply rank the loudest or most fashionable designs.

Final Verdict: The 2026/27 shirts worth your money

The 2026/27 season has produced plenty of attractive football shirts, but not all attractive shirts are equally worth buying.

Our ranking is based on more than how well a kit performs in launch photography or on social media. The real question is whether it deserves a place in your wardrobe.

And there is one rule worth remembering:

Buy the shirt you can imagine wearing 20 times - not the shirt that looks amazing for 20 seconds on Instagram.

That is usually where the real value lies.

FAQ

Which is the best 2026/27 football shirt to buy?

Lyon's away shirt is our best overall pick because it combines originality, club identity, style and everyday wearability.

Which 2026/27 shirt is best for collectors?

AC Milan's away shirt stands out for its connection to the club's 2007 Champions League triumph in Athens.

Are authentic football shirts worth the extra money?

Usually not for casual wear. Replica shirts often provide better value unless you specifically want player-style construction.

Which 2026/27 football shirt is best for everyday wear?

Liverpool's away shirt is our pick because its clean design is easy to wear with jeans and other everyday clothing.

Can João Pedro finally break Chelsea's No. 9 curse?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 05 Sep 2026 12:57:55 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Chelsea's No. 9 shirt has produced years of underwhelming striker records.
Didier Drogba and Diego Costa succeeded, but both avoided the infamous number nine.
João Pedro has already scored in his first game wearing the shirt.

For years, Chelsea supporters have joked about, and occasionally genuinely feared, the club's infamous No. 9 curse.

The theory is simple. A traditional number nine is supposed to score goals. At Stamford Bridge, however, strikers given the iconic shirt have frequently struggled to do exactly that.

It has happened often enough for the idea to become part of Chelsea folklore.

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Is Chelsea's No. 9 shirt really cursed?

In the literal sense, no.

There is no voodoo magic involved, and a shirt number cannot suddenly make a striker forget how to score.

The more convincing explanation is that Chelsea have repeatedly found themselves in difficult circumstances with their centre-forwards.

Some arrived under enormous pressure because of their transfer fees. Others suffered injuries, changed managers or lost confidence. Several were signed when they were already approaching the latter stages of their careers.

That is the rational explanation.

Football, however, is not always rational.

Once a pattern becomes established, it can create its own pressure. Every missed opportunity from a Chelsea No. 9 is inevitably compared with the players who struggled before him. The shirt gains a reputation, supporters expect the worst and the player knows exactly what people are talking about.

That makes the curse feel increasingly real, even when the underlying causes are perfectly ordinary.

Chelsea No. 9 history: the numbers

Since Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink left in 2004, 11 different players have worn Chelsea's No. 9 shirt, although two of those players were not conventional strikers.

Here is how the shirt has fared since his departure:

Player	Years in No. 9	Games	Goals
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink	2000–04	177	87
Mateja Kežman	2004–05	41	7
Hernán Crespo	2005–06	73	25
Khalid Boulahrouz	2006/07	20	0
Steve Sidwell	2007/08	25	1
Franco Di Santo	2008/09	16	0
Unassigned	2009/11	-	-
Fernando Torres	2011/14	172	45
Unassigned	2014/15	-	-
Radamel Falcao	2015/16	12	1
Unassigned	2016/17	-	-
Álvaro Morata	2017/19	72	24
Gonzalo Higuaín	2019 (loan)	19	5
Tammy Abraham	2019/21	82	30
Romelu Lukaku	2021/22	44	15
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang	2022/23	21	3
Unassigned	2023/25	-	-
Liam Delap	2025/26	41	2
João Pedro	2026/	2	2

Note: Figures represent the players' full Chelsea careers in all competitions. Hernán Crespo and Tammy Abraham wore other shirt numbers during parts of their Chelsea careers.

The contrast with Hasselbaink is obvious.

The Dutchman scored 87 goals in 177 appearances whilst wearing No. 9 for Chelsea. Since then, very few players have come close to providing the same reliability in front of goal.

Mateja Kežman was the first warning sign

The problems began almost immediately.

Mateja Kežman arrived at Chelsea after scoring 30 goals in a single season for PSV Eindhoven, with José Mourinho bringing him to Stamford Bridge in 2004.

Expectations were high.

The reality was very different.

Kežman scored just seven goals in 41 appearances during his Chelsea spell before leaving after one season.

Hernán Crespo never really got the opportunity

Hernán Crespo was a different case.

The Argentine was an established world-class striker with the pedigree to succeed at Chelsea, yet his Stamford Bridge career was never allowed to develop normally.

Despite scoring 25 goals in 73 appearances, Crespo spent a significant portion of his time away from the club on loan.

His Chelsea numbers were hardly disastrous, but his career at Stamford Bridge never matched the level supporters expected from a striker of his calibre.

Chelsea gave No. 9 to a defender and a midfielder

Then things became even stranger.

Khalid Boulahrouz and Steve Sidwell hardly represented the traditional No. 9 profile.

Boulahrouz, a defender, wore the shirt during the 2006/07 season and scored no goals in 20 appearances.

Sidwell inherited it the following campaign and managed one goal in 25 games.

It is hardly surprising that a shirt traditionally associated with elite goalscorers failed to produce much attacking output when it was handed to players whose primary job was not scoring.

Franco Di Santo followed in 2008/09 and scored none in 16 appearances.

The number was then left unassigned for several seasons.

Fernando Torres: the £50 million striker who never quite clicked

Then came the biggest name yet.

Chelsea signed Fernando Torres for £50 million in January 2011, making him the most expensive player in British football history at the time.

At his peak, Torres had been one of the world's most feared strikers. But by the time he arrived in West London, injuries had already affected his explosiveness and consistency.

Torres eventually scored 45 goals in 172 appearances for Chelsea.

Those numbers are not terrible in isolation.

But context matters.

Chelsea had paid a record fee for a striker expected to lead the line and regularly score at an elite level. Instead, his time at the club became defined by inconsistency and the question of what might have been.

The expensive striker era made the curse look worse

After Torres, the transfer fees, and expectations, kept rising.

Radamel Falcao arrived on loan in 2015/16 with one of the biggest reputations in European football but managed just one goal in 12 appearances.

Álvaro Morata followed in 2017 and initially looked capable of putting the curse to bed. He scored 24 goals in 72 appearances, but his Chelsea career gradually deteriorated and he eventually moved on.

Then came Gonzalo Higuaín, another elite striker whose best years were already behind him by the time he arrived on loan.

Chelsea were desperate for goals, and Higuaín had previously been one of Europe's most prolific forwards. But the version of Higuaín that arrived at Stamford Bridge was no longer the player who had dominated Serie A.

He scored five goals in 19 appearances.

Tammy Abraham came closest to breaking the spell

One of the more interesting cases was Tammy Abraham.

Unlike several of the expensive signings before him, Abraham was a homegrown player coming through the Chelsea system.

He scored 30 goals in 82 appearances whilst wearing No. 9 and, crucially, produced a superb Premier League campaign during his first full season in the senior side.

His league tally became the highest recorded by a Chelsea No. 9 in a single Premier League campaign in the period covered here.

Abraham showed that the shirt itself was not the problem. Given a stable run in the team, confidence and regular minutes, a Chelsea No. 9 could still score goals.

Romelu Lukaku added another chapter

When Chelsea brought Romelu Lukaku back in 2021, expectations were enormous.

The Belgian was returning after an outstanding spell at Inter Milan and had already proved himself as a Premier League goalscorer.

Instead, his second Chelsea spell became one of the club's most disappointing recent striker stories.

Lukaku scored 15 goals in 44 appearances before his relationship with the club deteriorated and a return to Inter followed.

Aubameyang and Delap failed to change the story

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang arrived in 2022 with a reputation as one of Europe's most prolific forwards.

By then, however, the Gabon international was well beyond the peak years of his career. He scored only three goals in 21 appearances for Chelsea.

Liam Delap's spell was even less productive.

The striker managed just two goals in 41 appearances during the 2025/26 campaign, adding another chapter to the increasingly familiar story.

João Pedro has already made the perfect start

João Pedro enters the story under rather different circumstances.

The Brazilian has inherited the No. 9 shirt with Chelsea supporters already well aware of its reputation. That means the pressure is immediate.

But his start could hardly have been better.

João Pedro scored twice in his first two appearances wearing Chelsea's No. 9 shirt.

That does not prove the curse is dead.

But there is something important in how João Pedro arrives at the situation.

Rather than being a veteran striker trying to rediscover his prime, or an expensive signing carrying the weight of a huge transfer fee, he has an opportunity to build his Chelsea career within a younger and increasingly talented attacking group.

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Why João Pedro could finally break the Chelsea No. 9 curse

If the curse is really nothing more than a collection of circumstances, then Chelsea's best hope of ending it is not superstition.

It is stability.

The club need a striker who can stay fit, remain a regular starter, play in a settled attacking system and avoid being constantly surrounded by managerial upheaval and squad turnover.

João Pedro appears to have the ingredients required.

He has attacking quality around him, greater competition for places and a squad built with considerable attacking talent. Under Xabi Alonso, he also has the chance to develop within a clearer tactical structure.

None of that guarantees goals.

But it gives João Pedro something many previous Chelsea No. 9s never had: the possibility of continuity.

FAQ

Is Chelsea's No. 9 shirt really cursed?

No. There is no evidence of a literal curse. The pattern is better explained by injuries, form, recruitment, managerial changes and player circumstances.

Who was Chelsea's most successful No. 9?

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink stands out, scoring 87 goals in 177 appearances whilst wearing Chelsea's No. 9 shirt.

Did Didier Drogba wear Chelsea's No. 9 shirt?

No. Didier Drogba is one of Chelsea's most successful strikers, but he wore other shirt numbers during his Stamford Bridge career.

Can João Pedro break Chelsea's No. 9 curse?

João Pedro has made the perfect start by scoring twice in his first two appearances wearing No. 9, but consistency over a full season will be the real test.

Ismaïla Sarr agent says African players are treated like a 'commodity'

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 11:00:00 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Ismaïla Sarr's agent says African players deserve greater respect over their careers.
Liverpool's move for Sarr was rejected by Crystal Palace last week.
Chelsea's £47m deal for Lamine Camara collapsed after Monaco changed course.

Ismaïla Sarr's agent has criticised the way some African footballers are treated in the transfer market, saying they can be viewed as a "commodity" rather than players with a voice in decisions about their careers.

Diomansy Kamara made the comments after two high-profile Senegalese transfers collapsed in the final stages of the window.

Crystal Palace rejected Liverpool's approach for Sarr, whilst Lamine Camara's proposed £47 million move from AS Monaco to Chelsea fell apart on deadline day.

Why Liverpool did not sign Ismaïla Sarr

Liverpool were understood to have made an approach for Sarr last week, but Palace rejected the bid and insisted that their leading scorer from last season was not available.

The 28-year-old Senegal forward subsequently missed Palace's first two matches against Everton and Manchester City after manager Pierre Sage said he had suffered an injury.

Sarr then deleted references to Palace from his social media accounts. He is thought to have been disappointed by the club's decision to reject Liverpool's interest.

Liverpool ultimately chose not to return with another offer on deadline day. The club instead decided to retain Cody Gakpo, who had attracted interest from City.

Lamine Camara's £47m Chelsea move collapses

Sarr's Senegal international team-mate Camara was involved in another dramatic deadline-day saga.

The midfielder appeared set to join Chelsea from Monaco in a deal worth around £47 million, but Monaco eventually pulled out after previously reaching a written agreement at club level.

Monaco later explained that their position changed because Everton indicated that their proposed £40 million move for Folarin Balogun was back on.

The French club had been uncertain over Balogun's transfer because of concerns surrounding his medical. Once Everton confirmed they were prepared to proceed, Monaco decided they could not allow Camara to leave.

Monaco defend their decision

Monaco sporting director Thiago Scuro defended the club's actions and rejected the suggestion that the Ligue 1 side had behaved improperly.

He said Everton confirmed at around 10pm local time that there was no longer an issue with the Balogun deal and that the club was ready to sign the relevant paperwork.

As soon as we got the information, yes, we did come back to Chelsea and told [them], "OK, we have our deal there. There is no deal on Lamine."

Because it's also fair to do this. It's also part of the game.

Scuro also objected to Monaco being portrayed as the villain of the situation.

It's unfair to portray Monaco as "the bad guys in the room."

Everybody is very fair and nice in the football industry, just Monaco is not. Too much.

Everton and the Balogun complication

The chain of events was further complicated by Balogun's decision over a potential move to Everton.

Everton were left with only one recognised striker after the United States forward changed his mind about moving to Merseyside.

Scuro suggested that Balogun was unhappy with the way Everton had handled the medical process, adding another layer of uncertainty to an already chaotic deadline day.

Those developments ultimately had consequences for Camara, as Monaco's position changed once Everton indicated they were ready to proceed with Balogun's transfer.

The result was an extraordinary sequence of events: a Chelsea transfer collapsed, Monaco kept Camara, Everton were left short of attacking options and Sarr remained at Palace despite Liverpool's interest.

Kamara questions the power clubs have over players

Kamara, a former Senegal international who earned 50 caps and played for Portsmouth, West Bromwich Albion and Fulham, believes the two cases raise wider questions about the power players have over decisions affecting their futures.

The cases of Ismaïla Sarr and Lamine Camara must all interrogate us.

We have to get out of this logic where the African player can sometimes give the feeling that he is just a commodity: you buy it, you set its price, you negotiate its future and, too often, your will seems to go to the background.

Our African players deserve respect. The respect of their work. The respect of their career. Respecting their ambitions. The respect of their voices.

For Kamara, the issue is not simply whether clubs have the right to negotiate transfers. It is whether players are being properly heard when those negotiations directly affect their careers.

The player must be able to be heard and respected in the decisions that determine his future.

Let's never forget what's important: behind every success, it's the players who write history first.

The question of player power

The modern transfer market is built around enormous sums of money, contractual obligations and clubs protecting their sporting interests.

Yet players remain the people whose careers are directly affected by those decisions.

That is the central issue raised by Kamara.

His criticism does not dispute that clubs have contractual rights. Instead, it challenges whether those rights should completely overshadow the player's ambitions when a major transfer opportunity emerges.

The Sarr and Camara cases have therefore provided another reminder that behind every transfer fee is a footballer whose career can be significantly altered by decisions made in boardrooms and during frantic deadline-day negotiations.

Replica vs Authentic football shirt: Which one should you buy?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 16:47:22 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Replica is best for most fans: comfortable, practical and better value.
Authentic offers a closer player fit and more technical construction.
Choose based on how you'll wear it, not simply which shirt costs more.

Buying a new football shirt looks straightforward - until you see two versions of the same kit with a surprisingly large price difference.

One is usually labelled Replica, Stadium or Fan Version. The other may be called Authentic, On-Field, Player Version or Match Version.

At first glance, they can look almost identical. Both carry the same club colours, crest, sponsor and design. So why does one cost substantially more?

Replica vs Authentic: What's the difference?

The easiest way to think about it is this:

Replica shirts are designed for supporters. Authentic shirts are designed to closely replicate the performance version worn by professional players.

That difference can affect the fit, fabric, ventilation, crest and sponsor application, weight and overall construction.

But there's an important caveat: there is no single universal specification for every Replica or Authentic football shirt.

Manufacturers change technologies from season to season, and adidas, Nike, PUMA and other brands can approach their player and fan versions differently.

So don't assume that every Authentic shirt automatically has the same features - or that every Replica is made to a lower standard.

What is a Replica football shirt?

A Replica football shirt is the supporter-focused version of a club jersey.

It is designed primarily for people who want to wear their team's colours rather than reproduce every technical feature of a professional match shirt.

That normally means a more forgiving fit, comfortable materials and construction suited to regular wear.

Replica shirts are generally the better choice for:

Matchdays
Watching football at home or in the pub
Everyday casual wear
Travelling
Football-fashion outfits
Supporters buying multiple shirts each season

For example, Fanatics currently lists the Manchester United adidas 2026/27 Home Replica Jersey at £85, with a regular fit, Climacool fabric, ventilated mesh panels and a sewn-on team crest.

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What is an Authentic football shirt?

An Authentic football shirt is the performance-focused version made to closely match the shirt worn by players on the pitch.

Depending on the manufacturer and season, it may feature:

A slimmer athletic fit
Lighter technical construction
Advanced moisture management
More extensive ventilation
Heat-applied crests and logos
Performance-oriented detailing
Construction designed around movement and on-pitch performance

Fanatics describes its current Manchester United 2026/27 On-Field Authentic shirt as the official match jersey worn by players, with a slim fit, Climacool+ technology and heat-transfer club crest and adidas logo.

🛒Shop the Manchester United 2026/27 Authentic Jersey on Fanatics

Replica vs Authentic football shirt comparison

Feature	Replica / Fan Version	Authentic / On-Field Version
Main purpose	Everyday supporter wear	Player-style performance
Fit	Usually regular or relaxed	Usually slim or athletic
Fabric	Comfort and durability focused	Lightweight, technical construction
Breathability	Good	Usually more advanced
Club crest	Often sewn-on or standard application	Often heat-applied
Sponsor	Standard application	Often lightweight heat-applied application
Weight	Usually slightly heavier	Usually lighter
Casual comfort	Excellent	Good, but more fitted
Regular use	Very suitable	More care may be required
Price	Lower	Higher
Best for	Most supporters	Players, collectors and enthusiasts

The key point is that Authentic does not mean "better" in every situation.

It means the shirt is designed around a different priority.

Is an Authentic football shirt worth the extra money?

For most fans, probably not.

That's not an attack on Authentic shirts. It's a value question.

If you're buying a shirt primarily because you love the club, want to wear the new kit on matchday and want something comfortable, a Replica already does the job.

Paying extra makes more sense when you specifically care about:

Player-style fit
Match-accurate details
Technical materials
Lightweight construction
Collecting
Reproducing the on-field experience

The current Fanatics Manchester United listings provide a useful real-world example: the 2026/27 Home Replica is listed at £85, whilst the Home Authentic is listed at £120.

That is a £35 premium before personalisation or other options.

So the real question isn't whether Authentic is technically more advanced.

It is whether those improvements are worth the extra money to you.

Who should buy a Replica football shirt?

For most supporters, this is the safer purchase.

Choose Replica if you want:

1. An everyday football shirt

The relaxed fit works particularly well as casual clothing.

2. More comfort

You get a less restrictive silhouette that's easier to wear for long periods.

3. Better value

You retain the look and identity of the club without paying the Authentic premium.

4. A shirt for frequent use

Replica versions are generally better suited to being worn regularly.

5. Multiple kits

Buying home, away and third shirts every season becomes expensive quickly. Choosing Replica for most of them can make the hobby much easier on your wallet.

For the average supporter, Replica is usually the rational choice.

Who should buy an Authentic football shirt?

Authentic becomes more compelling for a smaller group of buyers.

Serious football shirt collectors

The additional construction and player-specific detailing can matter considerably to collectors.

Fans who want the player experience

If your objective is to own the closest commercially available version to what the team wears on the pitch, Authentic is the obvious choice.

Fans who prefer slim athletic fits

The closer cut can work particularly well as part of a football-fashion outfit.

Players and athletes

Technical fabrics and construction can be useful when you're actually exercising.

Detail-focused buyers

Some people simply enjoy owning the most technically sophisticated version available.

That's a legitimate reason to spend more.

Are Replica football shirts fake?

No.

A genuine Replica football shirt is an officially licensed product.

The word "Replica" describes the version of the shirt - not whether it is genuine.

The problem comes when counterfeit sellers use terms such as "Replica," "Player Version" or "Authentic" to make fake products sound legitimate.

That's why the retailer matters more than the wording in the product title.

Before buying, check:

Retailer reputation
Official licensing
Product details
Manufacturer branding
Returns policy
Pricing
Product photography

Fanatics, for example, explicitly lists current football jerseys as officially licensed products.

Replica or Authentic: Which football shirt should you buy?

Here's the decision in one table.

If you want...	Best choice
Everyday wear	Replica
Matchday comfort	Replica
Better value	Replica
Multiple kits each season	Replica
Relaxed fit	Replica
Player-style fit	Authentic
Technical performance	Authentic
Match-style detailing	Authentic
Collecting	Authentic
The closest commercial version to the player shirt	Authentic

Final Verdict: Replica or Authentic?

For most football supporters, buy the Replica.

It gives you the club colours, badge, sponsor and overall kit design without forcing you to pay a premium for player-focused features you may never use.

Choose Authentic when you genuinely care about the player-style fit, technical fabric, lightweight construction or match-accurate details.

And before you click Buy, just remember that the best football shirt isn't the most expensive one.

It's the one you'll actually enjoy wearing.

FAQ

Is a Replica football shirt the same as Authentic?

No. Replica shirts are designed mainly for supporters, whilst Authentic shirts more closely match player specifications.

Are Authentic football shirts worth the extra money?

For most fans, probably not. They're worth considering when fit, technical features and match-style details matter to you.

Are Replica football shirts good quality?

Yes. Genuine Replica shirts are officially licensed products designed for supporter comfort and everyday wear.

Which is better: Replica or Authentic?

Replica is better value for most fans. Authentic is better for collectors, athletes and supporters who want a player-style shirt.

Lionel Messi retires from international football after 21 years

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 12:17:57 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Lionel Messi has ended his 21-year Argentina career at the age of 39.
He retires as Argentina's most-capped player and all-time leading scorer.
Messi will continue his club career with Inter Miami through the 2028 MLS season.

Lionel Messi has retired from international football at the age of 39, bringing one of the greatest careers in Argentina history to an emotional close.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner announced his decision on Monday, saying it was painful but that he understood the time had come to step away from the national team.

Messi finishes with 207 appearances and 125 goals for Argentina, making him both his country's most-capped player and its all-time leading goalscorer.

His final international appearance came in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, when Argentina were beaten 1-0 by Spain after extra time.

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Why has Messi retired from Argentina?

In his farewell message, Messi made clear that this was not an easy decision.

Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply.

I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team.

I've given it my all, I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some really great young players coming through behind me who deserve their chance.

Messi's decision followed weeks of uncertainty over his future.

After Argentina's defeat by Spain in the World Cup final on 19 July, Messi began considering whether it was time to close the international chapter of his career.

The death of his father, Jorge Messi, aged 68, added another deeply personal dimension to that decision.

Messi's Argentina career began with a red card

Messi's international career could hardly have started more dramatically.

He made his senior Argentina debut against Hungary in 2005, coming on as a 63rd-minute substitute.

Less than a minute later, he was sent off after swinging his arm and catching Hungary full-back Vilmos Vanczák with his elbow.

That difficult debut offered little indication of what was to follow.

Over the next 21 years, Messi became the central figure of a generation of Argentine football and eventually one of the most decorated international players in history.

From heartbreak to World Cup glory

For much of Messi's early international career, the major question was whether he could deliver a senior trophy with Argentina.

The defeats were painful and frequent.

Argentina lost the 2014 FIFA World Cup final to Germany before suffering consecutive Copa América final defeats in 2015 and 2016.

The latter proved particularly significant. After losing to Chile on penalties in the 2016 Copa América final, Messi missed Argentina's first penalty in the shootout and announced his retirement from international football.

It was not the end.

Messi reversed his decision and returned to the national team, eventually transforming the most painful part of his career into its defining success.

Messi finally delivered the trophies Argentina wanted

The breakthrough came at the 2021 Copa América.

Argentina defeated Brazil in the final at the Maracanã, giving Messi his first major senior international trophy.

A year later came another title in the Finalissima, followed by the ultimate prize in Qatar.

Messi captained Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, beating France on penalties in one of the most memorable finals in tournament history.

Argentina also won the 2024 Copa América, giving Messi a remarkable run of major international success after years of disappointment.

His final international chapter ended with another World Cup final appearance in 2026, although Argentina were unable to retain the trophy.

Messi's Argentina record

By the time he announced his retirement, Messi had established records that may stand for decades.

Statistic	Record
Argentina appearances	207
Argentina goals	125
World Cup goals	21
World Cup appearances	6 tournaments
World Cup titles	1
Copa América titles	2
Ballon d'Or awards	8

His 125 international goals leave him second behind Cristiano Ronaldo in the all-time men's international scoring rankings, with Ronaldo on 146.

Messi also finished his World Cup career with 21 goals, one behind Kylian Mbappé's 22, putting him second on the tournament's all-time scoring list.

At the FIFA 2026 World Cup, Messi scored eight goals and provided four assists as Argentina reached the final.

Messi's World Cup assist record is equally remarkable

Messi's influence at World Cups was not limited to goals.

His latest four assists took his career World Cup assist tally to 12, with 10 coming in knockout-stage matches.

That puts him well clear of the next group of players in the historical rankings, according to the figures supplied.

It is another indication of how Messi's role evolved over the course of his international career. He was no longer simply Argentina's goalscorer; increasingly, he became the player who dictated how and where attacks developed.

Messi is not retiring from football completely

Messi's decision concerns Argentina, not his entire playing career.

He remains with Inter Miami, where his contract runs through the end of the 2028 MLS season. The MLS club officially confirmed the extension in October 2025.

That means the football world will continue to see Messi in Inter Miami colours, even though his days representing Argentina are now over.

It also leaves open the possibility of another remarkable milestone in his club career.

Messi reached 921 official career goals in August 2026 after scoring twice for Inter Miami against Atlético San Luis in the Leagues Cup, according to contemporary reports.

That puts the 1,000-goal mark within sight, although whether he reaches it will depend on how long he continues playing.

'Now I'll be just one of you'

Perhaps the most striking part of Messi's farewell was not a record or statistic, but the way he described his relationship with Argentina.

After two decades of carrying enormous expectations, he said he would now watch the national team from the sidelines like everyone else.

Thank you for all the love over the past 20 years. I'm going to miss hearing you from the pitch so much.

Now I'll be just one of you, always cheering and supporting from the sidelines.

I'm leaving with the peace of mind and pride of having given you, together with my team-mates, moments we'd only dreamed of. It was incredible to have experienced this with you all.

That sentiment captures the transformation of his relationship with the country.

He arrived as a prodigiously talented teenager who was often compared with Diego Maradona.

He leaves as a World Cup-winning captain, Argentina's record appearance-maker and its most prolific goalscorer.

Who is Ashlyn Castro? Everything we know about Jude Bellingham's girlfriend

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 15:17:52 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Ashlyn Castro is a Los Angeles-based model and social media influencer.
She has been linked with Jude Bellingham since 2024.
Castro has 1 million Instagram followers and a large TikTok audience.

Ashlyn Castro has attracted plenty of attention as the woman linked with Jude Bellingham, but the American model and influencer has built a sizeable following in her own right.

The 28-year-old, who is from Los Angeles, California, became a familiar name to football fans after The Sun reported in January 2025 that she had been on a series of dates with Bellingham.

Since then, interest in Castro has grown considerably, particularly whenever she has been spotted supporting the Real Madrid and England midfielder.

Despite the attention, Castro has largely kept her private life away from the public eye.

Who is Ashlyn Castro?

Castro is an American model and social media influencer from Los Angeles.

She has established a substantial online following by sharing content focused on fashion, beauty, travel and her lifestyle.

Her Instagram account has attracted more than 1 million followers, whilst she also has a significant presence on TikTok.

Castro regularly posts photographs from her travels, glamorous outfits and selfies on Instagram. On TikTok, her content includes make-up tutorials and fashion advice.

Are Ashlyn Castro and Jude Bellingham dating?

Castro and Bellingham have been linked since 2024, with reports suggesting the pair began dating that year.

Their relationship has largely remained private, with neither appearing to make their personal life a major part of their public profiles.

Bellingham, 23, has occasionally been supported by Castro from the stands, adding to speculation and interest around the couple.

The relationship first became widely reported in January 2025 after The Sun claimed that Castro had been on a number of dates with the footballer.

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Ashlyn Castro’s previous relationships

Before being linked with Bellingham, Castro was reported to have dated NBA star Terance Mann.

She has also been linked in reports with other high-profile names, including actor Michael B. Jordan and basketball player LaMelo Ball.

However, Castro has generally avoided discussing her private relationships in detail.

That fits with her own approach to social media. She has previously said she has "never been one to share anything too personal" online.

Ashlyn Castro’s career and social media

Castro's online presence has become a major part of her public profile.

On Instagram, she shares a mixture of travel photographs, selfies and fashion posts, often featuring glamorous evening looks and statement outfits.

She has also built an audience on TikTok through beauty and fashion-focused content, including make-up tutorials and style advice.

Her social media activity has helped establish her as an influencer independently of her reported relationship with Bellingham.

Ashlyn Castro supports Jude Bellingham at the World Cup

Castro has also been seen showing her support for Bellingham during England matches.

At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, she was spotted in the crowd wearing an England shirt during the match against Panama.

Her appearance quickly drew attention, particularly among fans following Bellingham's personal life.

Whilst Castro has maintained a relatively low profile when it comes to her relationship, her presence at matches has provided occasional glimpses of her support for the England international.

Ashlyn Castro’s glamorous Instagram posts

Castro is no stranger to attracting attention with her social media posts.

The model frequently shares photographs featuring glamorous dresses, carefully styled outfits and snapshots from her travels.

Those posts have helped her amass a large following, with more than 700,000 people following her on Instagram.

Her popularity online means she has become a public figure in her own right, rather than simply being known through her connection to Bellingham.

How private is Ashlyn Castro?

Although Castro has a sizeable social media following, she appears to draw a clear line between her public persona and her private life.

She shares plenty of fashion, beauty and lifestyle content, but has been much more reserved when it comes to personal relationships and other private matters.

That has left relatively little confirmed information about her personal life beyond her work as a model and influencer and the reports linking her with Bellingham.

For now, much of the interest surrounding Castro comes from that balance: she is highly visible online, whilst still keeping much of her private life out of the spotlight.

Picture gallery

Photos: Instagram/ashlyncastro

Ákos Buzsáky breaks silence after being reported missing in Hungary

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 10:23:29 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Ákos Buzsáky has confirmed he is safe after being reported missing in Hungary.
The former QPR midfielder said he had deliberately stepped away from his daily life.
Buzsáky thanked supporters after his mother contacted police over a misunderstanding.

Former Premier League midfielder Ákos Buzsáky has confirmed he is safe after being reported missing in Hungary, explaining that he had deliberately withdrawn from his normal day-to-day life following major changes in his personal circumstances.

The 44-year-old, who is best remembered in English football for his spells with Queens Park Rangers and Plymouth Argyle, was reported missing on 18 August, prompting Hungarian police to launch a search.

The news caused concern among supporters in England, with both QPR and Plymouth publicly expressing hope that their former player would be found safe.

Buzsáky confirms he is safe

Buzsáky has now broken his silence in a message shared by QPR.

In his message posted on Facebook, Buzsáky said he had deliberately withdrawn from his everyday life following significant changes in his personal circumstances over recent months.

The clarification will come as a relief to supporters who had become increasingly concerned after police launched their search.

What happened to Ákos Buzsáky?

Reports of Buzsáky's disappearance emerged in Hungary after his details were included among the country's missing persons on 18 August.

His father, Ákos Buzsáky Sr, told Hungarian publication Blikk that he had initially been unaware that police were looking for his son.

He basically spends a lot of time in Greece, where he works as a construction contractor. He spent almost the entire last year there.

Since we don't live under the same roof, it's not surprising that we only speak less often. The last time I spoke to him was last week, when he was at home.

QPR and Plymouth react to Buzsáky's disappearance

The situation prompted a strong reaction from Buzsáky's former clubs in England.

QPR said they was concerned to learn that one of the club's former favourites had been reported missing.

The London club appealed for him to be found safe and well, whilst Plymouth Argyle also posted a message expressing their concern.

The reaction reflects the affection Buzsáky built during his time in English football, particularly among supporters at Loftus Road and Home Park.

Ákos Buzsáky's career in English football

Buzsáky began his professional career in Hungary with MTK before moving to Portuguese giants FC Porto in 2002.

After a loan spell with Académica, he moved to England in 2004, initially joining Plymouth on loan after impressing in a behind-closed-doors friendly.

Plymouth eventually made the move permanent, and Buzsáky went on to make more than 100 appearances for the club.

His performances attracted the attention of QPR, where he joined on loan in October 2007 before making the move permanent several months later.

QPR cult hero

Buzsáky quickly became a fan favourite at Loftus Road.

During his first season, he scored 10 goals and supplied six assists, establishing himself as an important attacking midfielder for the club.

He was also part of the QPR side that secured promotion to the Premier League in 2011.

Buzsáky subsequently made 18 appearances for QPR in the top flight during the 2011/12 season.

That proved to be his only Premier League campaign, with the midfielder leaving the club when his contract ended in July 2012.

He later played for Portsmouth and Barnsley before returning to Hungary in 2013 to join Ferencváros.

Across his time in the UK, Buzsáky made 243 appearances and scored 33 goals.

A career remembered fondly by English supporters

Buzsáky may have had only one season in the Premier League, but his reputation among supporters was built largely on his years in the Championship.

His technical ability, creativity and attacking contribution made him particularly popular at QPR, where he remains remembered fondly by supporters.

The circumstances surrounding his disappearance understandably generated concern, particularly given his connections to both QPR and Plymouth.

His latest message, however, confirms that Buzsáky is safe and that he has contacted the authorities after becoming aware of the situation.

And for supporters who had been waiting for news, that is the most important development.

Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? winner Valdas Dambrauskas reaches Champions League

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 13:06:43 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Valdas Dambrauskas used his 2002 quiz winnings to pursue coaching in England.
The former student and non-professional player has led Sabah FK into the Champions League.
Sabah completed a remarkable comeback against Hapoel Beer-Sheva to reach the league phase.

Valdas Dambrauskas has gone from winning on a quiz show to coaching in the Champions League - without ever playing professional football.

The 49-year-old Lithuanian has completed one of football's more remarkable journeys after guiding Azerbaijani club Sabah FK into the league phase of Europe's elite competition.

A quiz-show win changed everything

His story began more than two decades ago, when Dambrauskas was still a student with an ambition to become a football coach.

In 2002, he appeared on Lithuania's version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? and walked away with 4,000 Lithuanian litas, worth around £2,500 in today's money.

Shortly afterwards, he moved to England with his girlfriend to study Sports Science and Coaching at London Metropolitan University.

It was a huge risk.

Dambrauskas had limited English and spent much of his winnings on flights and accommodation. He had no professional playing career to fall back on, either.

Instead, he worked in retail whilst completing his coaching qualifications and gradually building experience.

His journey was methodical.

First came learning English. Then his Level 1 and Level 2 coaching qualifications, followed by youth coaching experience and work within professional academy environments.

He also gained experience with Fulham and Brentford, whilst continuing his studies and attending coaching courses and conferences whenever possible.

By 2009, he had graduated and returned to Lithuania, where he took charge of the country's under-17 side.

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From Lithuanian football to the Champions League

Dambrauskas gradually established himself as a senior coach, taking charge of Lithuanian clubs including Ekranas and Zalgiris before moving abroad.

His career subsequently took him to Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Cyprus and Hungary.

He enjoyed notable success with Bulgarian side Ludogorets and Croatian giants Hajduk Split, adding domestic trophies to a coaching career that had begun with a quiz-show jackpot.

But his biggest achievement may have arrived in Azerbaijan.

Dambrauskas took over at Sabah last summer and quickly made an impact, guiding the club to its first league title and a domestic double.

Sabah's extraordinary Champions League comeback

Sabah had to navigate all four qualifying rounds to reach the Champions League league phase.

They overcame Welsh champions The New Saints, Finland's KuPS and Danish side Aarhus before facing Hapoel Beer-Sheva in the play-offs.

The final hurdle looked as though it might prove too much.

Sabah lost the first leg 2-1 and then found themselves 2-1 down on the night in the return fixture, leaving them two goals behind on aggregate with only around 20 minutes remaining.

Then everything changed.

Umarali Rakhmonaliev pulled one back before Tellur Mutallimov struck with a dramatic volley in the closing seconds of stoppage time to level the tie and force extra time.

Hapoel's night then unravelled.

Djibril Diop was sent off, reducing the visitors to 10 men, before further goals from Orphé Mbina and Joy-Lance Mickels completed a stunning 5-2 victory for Sabah.

Eliel Peretz was also shown a red card late on as Hapoel finished the match with nine men.

Sabah won 6-4 on aggregate and secured a place in the Champions League league phase.

They are the only club from the 28 teams that entered in the first qualifying round to survive all four rounds and reach the league phase.

'Sabah is the best team I've coached'

For Dambrauskas, the achievement represents the culmination of a journey that began with a television quiz more than 20 years ago.

Speaking to UEFA after the victory, the Lithuanian was understandably emotional.

It's a great night. I thank the fans.

The players played great. Sabah is the best team I've coached in my career.

We've qualified for the main stage of the best tournament in the world. Today, I'm the happiest head coach in the world.

The scale of the achievement is difficult to overstate.

A man who had never played professional football used a modest quiz-show prize to finance a move to England, learned the language, worked his way through coaching qualifications, took jobs wherever he could find them and slowly climbed the football pyramid.

Now he could find himself preparing to face some of the biggest clubs in world football.

Real Madrid and Bayern Munich could be next

Dambrauskas is already looking forward to testing his team against Europe's elite.

First of all, to test ourselves and compete against the best.

It is not only excitement but also a big responsibility and an opportunity. It is very important for the club's growth. We can only grow individually and as a team. We want to use this opportunity.

For Dambrauskas, it is the latest - and perhaps most extraordinary - chapter in a football story that began with 4,000 Lithuanian litas and an unlikely dream.

The next time he walks into a Champions League stadium, he will do so not as a former quiz-show contestant chasing an ambition, but as the coach who turned that gamble into reality.

Atlético Madrid block Julián Alvarez Barcelona transfer before deadline

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 07:48:46 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Atlético Madrid have ruled out negotiations with Barcelona over Julián Alvarez.
Barcelona's €100m-plus offer remains on the table, according to Joan Laporta.
Arsenal could still emerge as an alternative if Alvarez leaves Atlético.

Atlético Madrid have taken a definitive stance on Julián Alvarez's future, insisting they will not negotiate with Barcelona over the Argentina international before the transfer deadline.

The club's board unanimously backed the decision on Thursday, effectively shutting down Barcelona's pursuit of the 26-year-old striker despite his reported desire to move to the Spanish champions.

Atlético draw a line under Barcelona negotiations

In a strongly worded statement, Atlético said their board had given its full backing to the decision not to negotiate Alvarez's transfer to Barcelona.

Atlético Madrid are open to negotiations typical of the transfer market, but always in an ethical and professional manner and with mutual respect between the clubs. We fully endorse the position previously communicated by the club that Barcelona have not met these requirements and, consequently, there have been no negotiations with them - nor will there be any - regarding the transfer of Alvarez.

Atlético are convinced that our player will understand the decision, focusing on performing to the best of his ability to help the club achieve their objectives, as he has already done in the two seasons he has spent representing our colours.

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Laporta keeps Barcelona's offer on the table

Barcelona have made Alvarez their priority attacking target this summer as they look to replace Robert Lewandowski.

Their interest increased further after Ferran Torres completed a €50 million move to Paris Saint-Germain, leaving Barça with another gap to fill in their forward line.

Laporta attempted to keep the door open on Wednesday, confirming that Barcelona's offer would remain available if Atlético changed their stance.

He also indicated that the player himself wants the move, a claim that appears to have further frustrated Atlético.

The Madrid club's position, however, has not shifted.

Alvarez caught in an increasingly tense situation

The dispute has also created uncertainty around Alvarez's immediate future at Atlético.

The forward was subjected to heavy jeering from sections of the home support when he came on during the 2-2 draw with Villarreal at the Metropolitano on Sunday.

He then missed training on Wednesday and Thursday, reportedly because of illness, further fuelling speculation about his relationship with the club and his desire to leave.

The situation has prompted Atlético chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín to speak publicly about the dispute.

I know him and he's a great person, a great professional. And right now he's in a very difficult situation, both personally and professionally. People have misled and confused him.

I insist that we won't negotiate with Barcelona under any circumstances. He won't move to Barcelona, with absolute certainty.

Our intention is for him to stay with us. Obviously if he arrives at the conclusion that he can't continue Atlético Madrid, we'll have to look for an alternative, but it will never, never be Barcelona.

Could Arsenal still sign Alvarez?

Although Barcelona have been at the centre of the saga, they are not the only club interested in Alvarez.

Arsenal remain in contention and could potentially benefit from the increasingly hostile relationship between Atlético and Barcelona.

Whether Atlético would actually negotiate with Arsenal is another matter.

The Spanish club's public comments are primarily aimed at Barcelona, but their broader stance also suggests that they are not under pressure to sell.

Why the Alvarez transfer has become so complicated

Alvarez's situation has developed into one of the defining transfer sagas of the summer, largely because it now involves more than simply a disagreement over price.

Barcelona's approach has damaged relations between the clubs, according to Atlético, whilst the player's apparent desire to leave has added another layer of tension.

The dispute has also attracted attention beyond Spain.

At the Champions League draw in Monaco, the conduct of Barcelona's pursuit was reportedly discussed among European football executives. Reports from Spanish media suggested that some clubs viewed Barça's approach as an attempt to bypass conventional negotiating channels.

Those claims remain part of the wider dispute rather than independently established facts, but they illustrate how contentious the transfer has become.

What happens next for Julián Alvarez?

With the deadline approaching, Alvarez's position is becoming increasingly difficult.

Atlético want him to stay, Barcelona still want to sign him and Arsenal continue to monitor his position. The player is therefore at the centre of a transfer battle in which the selling club appear to have drawn their strongest possible line.

Unless that stance changes before the deadline, Julián Alvarez will not be moving to Barcelona.

Romano Floriani Mussolini makes Lazio debut amid fascist legacy

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 07:12:25 +0000

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Romano Floriani Mussolini made his Lazio debut against Bologna.
Lazio fans reportedly chanted "Duce" during his first appearance.
His family history continues to attract attention alongside his football career.

Romano Floriani Mussolini made his long-awaited Lazio debut on Sunday, bringing fresh attention to the football career of the great-grandson of former Italian fascist dictator Benito Mussolini.

The 23-year-old defender came off the bench after only 19 minutes of Lazio's Serie A opener against Bologna at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara, replacing the injured Adam Marušić at right-back.

It was his first senior appearance for the club, having joined Lazio's youth setup at the age of 13 in 2016.

Fascist legacy overshadows Lazio debut

Whilst Floriani Mussolini is attempting to establish himself as a professional footballer, his family history has repeatedly attracted attention.

According to reports in the Italian media, sections of the Lazio support chanted "Duce" during his debut, a reference to Benito Mussolini's title as leader of Italian fascism.

Lazio have previously faced controversy over associations between sections of its fanbase and fascist symbolism. In 2019, the club distanced themselves from supporters after a banner honouring Mussolini was displayed.

The presence of Floriani Mussolini in a Lazio shirt therefore carries a political and historical dimension that is difficult to separate completely from his sporting career.

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Who was Benito Mussolini?

Benito Mussolini founded the Italian fascist movement and became Prime Minister of Italy in 1922.

He later transformed the country into a fascist dictatorship and maintained his position as "Duce" whilst aligning Italy with Nazi Germany during the Second World War.

Mussolini was removed from power in 1943 and was eventually captured and executed by Italian resistance fighters in 1945.

More than eight decades after his death, his name remains deeply controversial in Italy, making any public connection to the Mussolini family particularly sensitive.

A Lazio debut with an unusual historical connection

Floriani Mussolini's first appearance for Lazio also came at a stadium with its own connection to his great-grandfather.

Lazio's match against Bologna was played at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara, which has been Bologna's home since 1927.

Mussolini was involved in the construction and opening of the original stadium. According to historical accounts, he arrived on horseback to lay the foundation stone whilst the ground was being built.

A statue depicting Mussolini on horseback was later installed beneath the stadium's distinctive arch. It was destroyed in 1943 following the collapse of fascist rule in the city.

The location gave Floriani Mussolini's debut an added historical resonance, even though the defender's role on the day was purely sporting.

From Roma's academy to Lazio's first team

Floriani Mussolini began his youth career at Lazio's city rivals AS Roma before moving across the capital to join Lazio's academy.

His route to the first team has included several loan spells. He spent time at Pescara, Juve Stabia and Cremonese before returning to Lazio.

His appearance against Bologna was his 99th senior club game.

Last season, he played alongside former Premier League striker Jamie Vardy at Cremonese. However, the club ultimately suffered relegation from Serie A.

Previous controversy at Juve Stabia

Floriani Mussolini's career has already been accompanied by controversy.

After scoring the winning goal for Juve Stabia against Cesena in December 2024, reports in the Italian media alleged that he celebrated with a fascist salute.

Juve Stabia strongly denied the allegation at the time.

The incident added another layer of scrutiny to a player whose surname already carries significant historical baggage.

Floriani Mussolini looks to build his own career

For Floriani Mussolini, the challenge now is to establish himself on the pitch whilst navigating the attention inevitably generated by his family name.

His Lazio debut was notable for footballing reasons: an early introduction because of an injury, a booking soon afterwards and a full 90-minute contribution in a valuable away win.

Yet his background means his performances are likely to continue attracting interest well beyond the usual focus placed on a young defender making his first-team breakthrough.

The coming months will show whether Floriani Mussolini can make his football the defining part of his story.

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