Big Bash League (BBL) franchises are looking to rope in the Indian trio of MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina and Yuvraj Singh. All three of Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj have retired from international cricket with the former two still participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.&nbsp;

With BBL allowing three foreign players per team, all the franchises are eyeing Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj to not only bolster their squads but also to gain massive popularity in India. However, they will have to get NOC from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) first.

According to a report in cricket.com.au, BBL is keen on adding some Indian firepower to their arsenal with Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj leading the pecking order.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kapil-dev-suffers-heart-attack-undergoes-angioplasty-surgery-337402" hreflang="en">Kapil Dev suffers heart attack, undergoes angioplasty surgery</a>

The BCCI has clearly stated that it won’t allow their players to play in foreign leagues due to the exclusivity factor in IPL and domestic competitions. However, few players like Yuvraj, Manpreet Gony, Pravin Tambe among others have participated in overseas leagues after retiring from the BCCI. They are no more allowed to take part in Indian domestic tournaments including the IPL.

Notably, all three of Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj will be free when BBL 2020-21 kicks off in December. Interestingly, in December 2016, Dhoni had said that he will see how the future goes after retirement as the quality of BBL demands a lot of physical fitness.&nbsp;

“We are quite focused on international cricket for now so I can’t really make any comment on that [BBL future]. We’ll see how the future goes. It depends on when I retire and whether I’m in a position to play international cricket. The Big Bash, the quality of cricket is high so a lot depends on the physical fitness and the will to carry on and play more cricket,” the Ranchi superstar had said. 
&nbsp;

Big Bash League (BBL) franchises are looking to rope in the Indian trio of MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina and Yuvraj Singh. All three of Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj have retired from international cricket with the former two still participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.

Big Bash League (BBL) franchises are looking to rope in the Indian trio of MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina and Yuvraj Singh. All three of Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj have retired from international cricket with the former two still participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. With BBL allowing three foreign players per team, all the franchises are eyeing Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj to not only bolster their squads but also to gain massive popularity in India. However, they will have to get NOC from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) first. According to a report in cricket.com.au, BBL is keen on adding some Indian firepower to their arsenal with Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj leading the pecking order. ALSO READ: Kapil Dev suffers heart attack, undergoes angioplasty surgery The BCCI has clearly stated that it won’t allow their players to play in foreign leagues due to the exclusivity factor in IPL and domestic competitions. However, few players like Yuvraj, Manpreet Gony, Pravin Tambe among others have participated in overseas leagues after retiring from the BCCI. They are no more allowed to take part in Indian domestic tournaments including the IPL. Notably, all three of Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj will be free when BBL 2020-21 kicks off in December. Interestingly, in December 2016, Dhoni had said that he will see how the future goes after retirement as the quality of BBL demands a lot of physical fitness. “We are quite focused on international cricket for now so I can’t really make any comment on that [BBL future]. We’ll see how the future goes. It depends on when I retire and whether I’m in a position to play international cricket. The Big Bash, the quality of cricket is high so a lot depends on the physical fitness and the will to carry on and play more cricket,” the Ranchi superstar had said.

MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina and Yuvraj Singh in Big Bash League? Australian franchises eye Indian trio

Chennai Super Kings are set to take on defending champions Mumbai Indian at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday. The action in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> continues with ‘El Clasico’ of cricket set to enthral the cricket fans.

While MI are currently sitting at third spot with 12 points to their name after nine matches, Chennai Super Kings are lying at the bottom of the table with just six points.&nbsp;

While CSK are still ‘mathematically’ in the competition despite going off to a horror start in IPL 2020, MI are hot favourites to win the encounter given their form and team-balance.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-hurts-me-to-say-this-scott-styris-on-chennai-super-kings-hopes-in-ipl-2020-337393" hreflang="en">'It hurts me to say this...' - Scott Styris on Chennai Super Kings' hopes in IPL 2020</a>

<h2>CSK vs MI - Head-to-head:</h2>

Talking about head-to-head statistics, CSK and MI have played each other 27 times with the former winning 12 and four-time IPL winners clinching 17 wins.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kapil-dev-suffers-heart-attack-undergoes-angioplasty-surgery-337402" hreflang="en">Kapil Dev suffers heart attack, undergoes angioplasty surgery</a>

In the last three matches, MI have won twice with CSK being victorious only once. Both the top teams in IPL kicked off the 13th edition of IPL in the UAE with CSK winning the clash by five wickets.

Given the fact that Sharjah track has drastically slowed down in last week or so, score of 200-plus will be hard to achieve. However, if batsmen fire all cylinders then it is a mountain that can be climbed with ease.

<h2>MI vs CSK - Squads:</h2>

Mumbai Indians Squad: Rohit Sharma(c), Quinton de Kock(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Rahul Chahar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Dhawal Kulkarni, Saurabh Tiwary, James Pattinson, Aditya Tare, Mitchell McClenaghan, Chris Lynn, Jayant Yadav, Anmolpreet Singh, Anukul Roy, Mohsin Khan, Sherfane Rutherford, Digvijay Deshmukh, Prince Balwant Rai

Chennai Super Kings Squad: Sam Curran, Faf du Plessis, Shane Watson, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni(w/c), Ravindra Jadeja, Kedar Jadhav, Deepak Chahar, Piyush Chawla, Shardul Thakur, Josh Hazlewood, Murali Vijay, Karn Sharma, Imran Tahir, Lungi Ngidi, Monu Kumar, Mitchell Santner, Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore, N Jagadeesan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KM Asif

Chennai Super Kings are set to take on defending champions Mumbai Indian at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday. The action in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 continues with ‘El Clasico’ of cricket set to enthral the cricket fans.

Chennai Super Kings are set to take on defending champions Mumbai Indian at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday. The action in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 continues with ‘El Clasico’ of cricket set to enthral the cricket fans. While MI are currently sitting at third spot with 12 points to their name after nine matches, Chennai Super Kings are lying at the bottom of the table with just six points. While CSK are still ‘mathematically’ in the competition despite going off to a horror start in IPL 2020, MI are hot favourites to win the encounter given their form and team-balance. ALSO READ: 'It hurts me to say this...' - Scott Styris on Chennai Super Kings' hopes in IPL 2020 CSK vs MI - Head-to-head: Talking about head-to-head statistics, CSK and MI have played each other 27 times with the former winning 12 and four-time IPL winners clinching 17 wins. ALSO READ: Kapil Dev suffers heart attack, undergoes angioplasty surgery In the last three matches, MI have won twice with CSK being victorious only once. Both the top teams in IPL kicked off the 13th edition of IPL in the UAE with CSK winning the clash by five wickets. Given the fact that Sharjah track has drastically slowed down in last week or so, score of 200-plus will be hard to achieve. However, if batsmen fire all cylinders then it is a mountain that can be climbed with ease. MI vs CSK - Squads: Mumbai Indians Squad: Rohit Sharma(c), Quinton de Kock(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Rahul Chahar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Dhawal Kulkarni, Saurabh Tiwary, James Pattinson, Aditya Tare, Mitchell McClenaghan, Chris Lynn, Jayant Yadav, Anmolpreet Singh, Anukul Roy, Mohsin Khan, Sherfane Rutherford, Digvijay Deshmukh, Prince Balwant Rai Chennai Super Kings Squad: Sam Curran, Faf du Plessis, Shane Watson, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni(w/c), Ravindra Jadeja, Kedar Jadhav, Deepak Chahar, Piyush Chawla, Shardul Thakur, Josh Hazlewood, Murali Vijay, Karn Sharma, Imran Tahir, Lungi Ngidi, Monu Kumar, Mitchell Santner, Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore, N Jagadeesan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KM Asif

IPL 2020, CSK vs MI Preview: Super Kings look to stay 'mathematically' alive in tournament

Legendary Indian cricketer Kapil Dev has suffered a heart attack and is said to be undergoing angioplasty surgery at a hospital in New Delhi. Former India captain and one of the finest all-rounders that the cricket world has produced, Kapil Dev led India to their first World Cup triumph in 1983.

Kapil Dev has been pretty active with his views on cricket in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. The former Indian skipper was also dealing with diabetes-related health issues. However, the news of Kapil Dev's heart attack has left the entire social media shocked as fans took to different platforms to wish the 'Haryana Hurricane' a speedy recovery.&nbsp;

<h2>Statement by&nbsp;Fortis Escorts, Okhla, Delhi on Kapil Dev's health</h2>

"Cricketer Kapil Dev came to Fortis Escorts Heart Institute (Okhla Road) emergency department at 1:00 am on 23rd October with a complaint of chest pain. He was evaluated and an emergency coronary angioplasty was performed in the middle of the night. Currently, he is admitted in ICU and under close supervision of Dr Atul Mathur and his team. Kapil Dev is stable now and he is expected to get discharged in a couple of days": Fortis Escorts, Okhla, Delhi

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-premier-league-or-super-over-premier-league-336375" hreflang="en">Indian Premier League or Super Over Premier League!</a>

The Indian great inspired India to an unforgettable World Cup victory in 1983 where they defeated the mighty West Indies in the final at the Lord's. Dev was instrumental in India's World Cup triumph as he scalped 12 wickets while scoring 303 runs at an average of 60.6. Furthermore, he also grabbed seven catches in eight encounters as India lifted the coveted trophy.&nbsp;

Kapil Dev made headlines after he emerged as a hot trend on social media a few months ago, during the lockdown, as he shared his new look.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-dont-want-my-game-to-be-limited-to-googlys-says-kings-xi-punjabs-ravi-bishnoi-329890" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Don't want my game to be limited to googlys, says Kings XI Punjab's Ravi Bishnoi</a>

Kapil Dev was also in the news and had emerged as a top trend on social media a few months ago for flaunting his new look. Coming back to the story, we wish him a speedy recovery.

Legendary Indian cricketer Kapil Dev has suffered a heart attack and is said to be undergoing angioplasty surgery at a hospital in New Delhi. Former India captain and one of the finest all-rounders that the cricket world has produced, Kapil Dev led India to their first World Cup triumph in 1983.

Legendary Indian cricketer Kapil Dev has suffered a heart attack and is said to be undergoing angioplasty surgery at a hospital in New Delhi. Former India captain and one of the finest all-rounders that the cricket world has produced, Kapil Dev led India to their first World Cup triumph in 1983. Kapil Dev has been pretty active with his views on cricket in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. The former Indian skipper was also dealing with diabetes-related health issues. However, the news of Kapil Dev's heart attack has left the entire social media shocked as fans took to different platforms to wish the 'Haryana Hurricane' a speedy recovery. Statement by Fortis Escorts, Okhla, Delhi on Kapil Dev's health "Cricketer Kapil Dev came to Fortis Escorts Heart Institute (Okhla Road) emergency department at 1:00 am on 23rd October with a complaint of chest pain. He was evaluated and an emergency coronary angioplasty was performed in the middle of the night. Currently, he is admitted in ICU and under close supervision of Dr Atul Mathur and his team. Kapil Dev is stable now and he is expected to get discharged in a couple of days": Fortis Escorts, Okhla, Delhi ALSO READ: Indian Premier League or Super Over Premier League! The Indian great inspired India to an unforgettable World Cup victory in 1983 where they defeated the mighty West Indies in the final at the Lord's. Dev was instrumental in India's World Cup triumph as he scalped 12 wickets while scoring 303 runs at an average of 60.6. Furthermore, he also grabbed seven catches in eight encounters as India lifted the coveted trophy. Kapil Dev made headlines after he emerged as a hot trend on social media a few months ago, during the lockdown, as he shared his new look. ALSO READ: Exclusive: Don't want my game to be limited to googlys, says Kings XI Punjab's Ravi Bishnoi Kapil Dev was also in the news and had emerged as a top trend on social media a few months ago for flaunting his new look. Coming back to the story, we wish him a speedy recovery.

Kapil Dev suffers heart attack, undergoes angioplasty surgery

Mumbai City FC on Friday announced the signing of goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa. The 22-year-old joins the Islanders on a contract that will keep him at the club until 2024.&nbsp;

A graduate of the Shillong Lajong FC Academy, Lachenpa signed a professional contract with the Meghalaya-based club in 2015. The Sikkimese shot-stopper made 24 appearances during his four seasons there, before signing for fellow I-League club Real Kashmir in 2019.&nbsp;

A regular starter in Real Kashmir’s fourth-place finish last season in the I-League, Lachenpa impressed as he kept 8 clean sheets in 19 appearances across all competitions, conceding only 17 goals in the process. The youngster will join goalkeeper Amrinder Singh in the goalkeeping contingent at Mumbai City.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/isl-2020-21-mumbai-city-sign-midfielder-ahmed-jahouh-337098" hreflang="en">ISL 2020-21: Mumbai City sign midfielder Ahmed Jahouh</a>

Phurba Lachenpa&nbsp;said:&nbsp;“It’s a proud moment for me, taking the next step of my career and committing my future to a club of Mumbai City’s stature. I’ve enjoyed my football and my journey so far but I’m only getting started. I know I have to work harder and I am really looking forward to working with and learning from my teammates. It’s a huge challenge and an even bigger opportunity for me and I am ready to give it my all.”&nbsp;

Head coach,&nbsp;Sergio Lobera&nbsp;said:&nbsp;“Phurba was one of, if not the best goalkeeper in the I-League last season, and we are delighted to have him here at Mumbai City. He is young and has tremendous potential to improve a lot in the future. Phurba’s reflexes and command during the games is something that caught our eye, and we are hoping he can continue his development here at Mumbai City, and play a huge role in the Club’s successes for years to come.”&nbsp;

Mumbai City FC on Friday announced the signing of goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa. The 22-year-old joins the Islanders on a contract that will keep him at the club until 2024.

Mumbai City FC on Friday announced the signing of goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa. The 22-year-old joins the Islanders on a contract that will keep him at the club until 2024. A graduate of the Shillong Lajong FC Academy, Lachenpa signed a professional contract with the Meghalaya-based club in 2015. The Sikkimese shot-stopper made 24 appearances during his four seasons there, before signing for fellow I-League club Real Kashmir in 2019. A regular starter in Real Kashmir’s fourth-place finish last season in the I-League, Lachenpa impressed as he kept 8 clean sheets in 19 appearances across all competitions, conceding only 17 goals in the process. The youngster will join goalkeeper Amrinder Singh in the goalkeeping contingent at Mumbai City. ALSO READ: ISL 2020-21: Mumbai City sign midfielder Ahmed Jahouh Phurba Lachenpa said: “It’s a proud moment for me, taking the next step of my career and committing my future to a club of Mumbai City’s stature. I’ve enjoyed my football and my journey so far but I’m only getting started. I know I have to work harder and I am really looking forward to working with and learning from my teammates. It’s a huge challenge and an even bigger opportunity for me and I am ready to give it my all.” Head coach, Sergio Lobera said: “Phurba was one of, if not the best goalkeeper in the I-League last season, and we are delighted to have him here at Mumbai City. He is young and has tremendous potential to improve a lot in the future. Phurba’s reflexes and command during the games is something that caught our eye, and we are hoping he can continue his development here at Mumbai City, and play a huge role in the Club’s successes for years to come.”

ISL 2020-21: Mumbai City FC sign goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa

Mikel Arteta admitted he has failed to get the best out of Mesut Ozil after the German expressed his anger at being left out the Gunners' Premier League squad.

The 32-year-old is the highest-paid player in Arsenal's history on a reported £350,000 ($450,000) a week, but has also been omitted from the Arsenal's Europa League squad, casting doubt he will ever play for the club again.

Ozil has not played a single minute for Arteta's side since March 7 and is out of contract at the end of the season.

"My job is to get the best out of every player, to contribute to the team performance. Here I feel at the moment, today, that I have failed," Arteta said at a pre-match press conference ahead of Thursday's Europa League trip to Rapid Vienna.

"I want the best possible Mesut for the team. In some moments I was able to get close to that, and at the moment I have not been able to do it because I have to make the decision to leave him out of the squad."

Earlier on Wednesday, Ozil expressed his frustration at being sidelined and suggested he had not been treated fairly.

"Upon signing my new contract in 2018, I pledged my loyalty and allegiance to the club that I love, Arsenal, and it saddens me that this has not been reciprocated," said Ozil in a statement posted on social media.

"I can promise you that this hard decision won't change anything in my mindset - I will continue to train as best as I can and wherever possible use my voice against inhumanity and for justice."

Last December Arsenal distanced themselves from comments Ozil made criticising China's treatment of the Uighur population in Xinjiang.

The World Cup winner also refused to take a 12.5 percent pay cut in line with the rest of the Arsenal squad when the economic crisis caused by coronavirus hit in April.

However, Arteta insisted that his decision was purely a football one.

"My conscience is very calm because I have been really fair with him. My level of communication with him has been really high and we know what to expect with each other," added Arteta.

"Obviously a player of that dimension, with the career he has had, everything that happens around him has a big impact.

"It has been the case for the last eight years, it is nothing new that is just happening now. A lot of things have happened over these eight years."

Earlier this month, Ozil offered to pay the salary of Arsenal's popular mascot Gunnersaurus after Jerry Quy, who has played the role of the dinosaur since 1993, was let go by the club with stadiums empty during the Covid-19 crisis.

Mikel Arteta admitted he has failed to get the best out of Mesut Ozil after the German expressed his anger at being left out the Gunners' Premier League squad. The 32-year-old is the highest-paid player in Arsenal's history on a reported £350,000 ($450,000) a week, but has also been omitted from the Arsenal's Europa League squad, casting doubt he will ever play for the club again.

Mikel Arteta admitted he has failed to get the best out of Mesut Ozil after the German expressed his anger at being left out the Gunners' Premier League squad. The 32-year-old is the highest-paid player in Arsenal's history on a reported £350,000 ($450,000) a week, but has also been omitted from the Arsenal's Europa League squad, casting doubt he will ever play for the club again. Ozil has not played a single minute for Arteta's side since March 7 and is out of contract at the end of the season. "My job is to get the best out of every player, to contribute to the team performance. Here I feel at the moment, today, that I have failed," Arteta said at a pre-match press conference ahead of Thursday's Europa League trip to Rapid Vienna. "I want the best possible Mesut for the team. In some moments I was able to get close to that, and at the moment I have not been able to do it because I have to make the decision to leave him out of the squad." Earlier on Wednesday, Ozil expressed his frustration at being sidelined and suggested he had not been treated fairly. "Upon signing my new contract in 2018, I pledged my loyalty and allegiance to the club that I love, Arsenal, and it saddens me that this has not been reciprocated," said Ozil in a statement posted on social media. "I can promise you that this hard decision won't change anything in my mindset - I will continue to train as best as I can and wherever possible use my voice against inhumanity and for justice." Last December Arsenal distanced themselves from comments Ozil made criticising China's treatment of the Uighur population in Xinjiang. The World Cup winner also refused to take a 12.5 percent pay cut in line with the rest of the Arsenal squad when the economic crisis caused by coronavirus hit in April. However, Arteta insisted that his decision was purely a football one. "My conscience is very calm because I have been really fair with him. My level of communication with him has been really high and we know what to expect with each other," added Arteta. "Obviously a player of that dimension, with the career he has had, everything that happens around him has a big impact. "It has been the case for the last eight years, it is nothing new that is just happening now. A lot of things have happened over these eight years." Earlier this month, Ozil offered to pay the salary of Arsenal's popular mascot Gunnersaurus after Jerry Quy, who has played the role of the dinosaur since 1993, was let go by the club with stadiums empty during the Covid-19 crisis.

Arteta feels he has 'failed' Arsenal over Ozil omission

Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford has warned MPs not to "turn a blind eye" to vulnerable families as the House of Commons prepared to vote on an opposition &nbsp;to extend free school meals over the holidays

The 22-year-old Rashford, who has led a campaign on the issue, said Wednesday he would be "paying close attention" to the vote.

The British government has so far refused to extend the provision of free school meals in England over the half-term and Christmas breaks.

But Robert Halfon MP, the chairman of the Commons Education Select Committee and a member of the governing Conservative Party, has urged the Government to continue providing meals over the holidays while the Covid-19 crisis is ongoing.

But Prime Minister Boris Johnson told MPs on Wednesday: "We support kids on low incomes in school and we will continue to do so.

"We will continue to use the benefits system and all the systems of income to support children throughout the holidays as well."

Earlier Rashford, urged his 3.4 million Twitter followers to lobby MPs to back his campaign.

He said: "Paying close attention to the Commons today and to those who are willing to turn a blind eye to the needs of our most vulnerable children, 2.2 million of them who currently qualify for free school meals."

Rashford said the pandemic had made the situation worse than it was at the start of the crisis.

"We aren't in the same position we were in in the summer, it's much worse," he said.

"The number of children with little to no access to food has risen significantly."

The main opposition Labour Party's motion calls for the scheme to be extended over school holidays until Easter 2021.

Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford has warned MPs not to "turn a blind eye" to vulnerable families as the House of Commons prepared to vote on an opposition to extend free school meals over the holidays The 22-year-old Rashford, who has led a campaign on the issue, said Wednesday he would be "paying close attention" to the vote.

Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford has warned MPs not to "turn a blind eye" to vulnerable families as the House of Commons prepared to vote on an opposition to extend free school meals over the holidays The 22-year-old Rashford, who has led a campaign on the issue, said Wednesday he would be "paying close attention" to the vote. The British government has so far refused to extend the provision of free school meals in England over the half-term and Christmas breaks. But Robert Halfon MP, the chairman of the Commons Education Select Committee and a member of the governing Conservative Party, has urged the Government to continue providing meals over the holidays while the Covid-19 crisis is ongoing. But Prime Minister Boris Johnson told MPs on Wednesday: "We support kids on low incomes in school and we will continue to do so. "We will continue to use the benefits system and all the systems of income to support children throughout the holidays as well." Earlier Rashford, urged his 3.4 million Twitter followers to lobby MPs to back his campaign. He said: "Paying close attention to the Commons today and to those who are willing to turn a blind eye to the needs of our most vulnerable children, 2.2 million of them who currently qualify for free school meals." Rashford said the pandemic had made the situation worse than it was at the start of the crisis. "We aren't in the same position we were in in the summer, it's much worse," he said. "The number of children with little to no access to food has risen significantly." The main opposition Labour Party's motion calls for the scheme to be extended over school holidays until Easter 2021.

Rashford urges MPs not to 'turn blind eye' to vulnerable children

Jurgen Klopp saluted Liverpool's fighting spirit as the Reds proved they can cope without Virgil van Dijk by grinding out a 1-0 win at Ajax in the opening game of their Champions League campaign on Wednesday.

Klopp's side are likely to be without Van Dijk for the rest of the season after the influential Dutch centre-back suffered anterior cruciate ligament damage against Everton last weekend.

Critics have claimed Liverpool will struggle without Van Dijk, but Brazilian midfielder Fabinho filled in impressively alongside Joe Gomez at the heart of the defence.

While Liverpool weren't at their best and rode their luck at times, never more so than when Nicolas Tagliafico diverted Sadio Mane's scuffed effort into his own net in the first half, it was an encouraging Group D opener for Klopp.

There was enough spirit about the 2019 Champions League winners to suggest they will use the Van Dijk blow to fuel their Premier League title defence and European challenge.

"It was not perfect but they fought brilliantly," Klopp said. "We did not take our chances, which was a shame, and Ajax had a big one which hit the post.&nbsp;

"When you're 1-0 up, these things can happen. But overall I'm happy with the game.&nbsp;

"It was not sunshine football but we wanted three points and we got it."

Van Dijk will need knee surgery after being pole-axed by Everton keeper Jordan Pickford's ugly foul and his injury came at a time when Liverpool looked vulnerable after losing 7-2 at Aston Villa before the international break.

Against that backdrop, keeping a clean-sheet for just the third time this season was a big lift for Liverpool, who won for the first time in three games despite also being without defender Joel Matip and midfielder Thiago Alcantara after the brutal Merseyside derby.

"I think both teams could play better football. At moments it was wild. The pitch was deep and muddy," Klopp said.

"Xherdan Shaqiri was lively and Takumi Minamino was unbelievable. He is like a machine. It helps when you can make five substitutions."

Praising Fabinho for an acrobatic goalline clearance, Klopp added: "I didn't know how it happened in the beginning. That's a good example of how the boys did today."

<h2>- Backs to the wall -</h2>

&nbsp;

Liverpool's makeshift defence was easily carved open early on when Quincy Promes advanced down the left and found Dusan Tadic, who set up Ryan Gravenberch for a fierce strike that flashed just wide.

There was another major scare as David Neres' pass found the unmarked Promes six yards from goal, but he shot straight at Adrian to let Liverpool off the hook.

Making the most of that escape, Liverpool took the lead in bizarre fashion in the 35th minute.

Mane eluded Perr Schuurs as he broke into the Ajax area but when the Senegal forward went to shoot, he stubbed his foot into the turf, sending a miscued effort towards Tagliafico, who lost his balance and prodded the ball into his own net under no pressure.

Klopp has been fostering a siege mentality among his players since the Everton game and their backs to the wall spirit was on full display when Fabinho raced back to clear Tadic's lob off the line with a superb overhead kick.

Van Dijk couldn't have done it better himself, but while Fabinho was impressing, Ajax still carried a threat.

Taking aim from the edge of the area, Davy Klaassen smashed a fierce strike off the far post in the first minute of the second half.

Ajax went close again when Noussair Mazraoui took a Neres cutback and forced Adrian into a fine save.

Klopp took off Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Mane, with the latter needing ice on his right leg as he sat on the bench.

Jurgen Ekkelenkamp almost snatched a late equaliser after a mistake from Adrian, but Liverpool held their nerve to provide a morale-boosting start to life without Van Dijk.

Jurgen Klopp saluted Liverpool's fighting spirit as the Reds proved they can cope without Virgil van Dijk by grinding out a 1-0 win at Ajax in the opening game of their Champions League campaign on Wednesday.

Jurgen Klopp saluted Liverpool's fighting spirit as the Reds proved they can cope without Virgil van Dijk by grinding out a 1-0 win at Ajax in the opening game of their Champions League campaign on Wednesday. Klopp's side are likely to be without Van Dijk for the rest of the season after the influential Dutch centre-back suffered anterior cruciate ligament damage against Everton last weekend. Critics have claimed Liverpool will struggle without Van Dijk, but Brazilian midfielder Fabinho filled in impressively alongside Joe Gomez at the heart of the defence. While Liverpool weren't at their best and rode their luck at times, never more so than when Nicolas Tagliafico diverted Sadio Mane's scuffed effort into his own net in the first half, it was an encouraging Group D opener for Klopp. There was enough spirit about the 2019 Champions League winners to suggest they will use the Van Dijk blow to fuel their Premier League title defence and European challenge. "It was not perfect but they fought brilliantly," Klopp said. "We did not take our chances, which was a shame, and Ajax had a big one which hit the post. "When you're 1-0 up, these things can happen. But overall I'm happy with the game. "It was not sunshine football but we wanted three points and we got it." Van Dijk will need knee surgery after being pole-axed by Everton keeper Jordan Pickford's ugly foul and his injury came at a time when Liverpool looked vulnerable after losing 7-2 at Aston Villa before the international break. Against that backdrop, keeping a clean-sheet for just the third time this season was a big lift for Liverpool, who won for the first time in three games despite also being without defender Joel Matip and midfielder Thiago Alcantara after the brutal Merseyside derby. "I think both teams could play better football. At moments it was wild. The pitch was deep and muddy," Klopp said. "Xherdan Shaqiri was lively and Takumi Minamino was unbelievable. He is like a machine. It helps when you can make five substitutions." Praising Fabinho for an acrobatic goalline clearance, Klopp added: "I didn't know how it happened in the beginning. That's a good example of how the boys did today." - Backs to the wall - Liverpool's makeshift defence was easily carved open early on when Quincy Promes advanced down the left and found Dusan Tadic, who set up Ryan Gravenberch for a fierce strike that flashed just wide. There was another major scare as David Neres' pass found the unmarked Promes six yards from goal, but he shot straight at Adrian to let Liverpool off the hook. Making the most of that escape, Liverpool took the lead in bizarre fashion in the 35th minute. Mane eluded Perr Schuurs as he broke into the Ajax area but when the Senegal forward went to shoot, he stubbed his foot into the turf, sending a miscued effort towards Tagliafico, who lost his balance and prodded the ball into his own net under no pressure. Klopp has been fostering a siege mentality among his players since the Everton game and their backs to the wall spirit was on full display when Fabinho raced back to clear Tadic's lob off the line with a superb overhead kick. Van Dijk couldn't have done it better himself, but while Fabinho was impressing, Ajax still carried a threat. Taking aim from the edge of the area, Davy Klaassen smashed a fierce strike off the far post in the first minute of the second half. Ajax went close again when Noussair Mazraoui took a Neres cutback and forced Adrian into a fine save. Klopp took off Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Mane, with the latter needing ice on his right leg as he sat on the bench. Jurgen Ekkelenkamp almost snatched a late equaliser after a mistake from Adrian, but Liverpool held their nerve to provide a morale-boosting start to life without Van Dijk.

Klopp hails spirit as Liverpool show they can cope without Van Dijk

Pep Guardiola said an injury to Fernandinho late in Manchester City's 3-1 win over Porto to begin their Champions League campaign will be far from the last his side suffer with a gruelling schedule ahead.

City face another 17 games in 2020 with all six Champions League group-stage matches packed into a seven-week stretch either side of the November international break.

Guardiola's men have struggled to hit the ground running this season with a short pre-season, coronavirus infections and injuries taking their toll.

On Wednesday City missed the presence of the injured Kevin De Bruyne, but battled back to get their latest quest to win a maiden Champions League off to a winning start after Luis Diaz's solo effort put the visitors in front in the first half.

Sergio Aguero levelled with a contentious penalty seven minutes later and the Premier League side's quality shone through after half-time as Ilkay Gundogan's free-kick and substitute Ferran Torres' fine finish moved City to the top of Group C.

"It's a good start for us," said Guardiola. "We knew the games at home you have to win in this competition.

"(Fernandinho) is the bad news, he has a muscular problem so he will be a big loss. In this period we need everyone, but with this calendar it happens."

Guardiola admitted on Tuesday to still feeling guilty over the experimental line-up and formation that led to City's latest Champions League calamity in last season's quarter-finals against Lyon in August.

The Catalan is into the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium and so this is potentially his last chance to land the prize City most desired when they brought him to Manchester in 2016.

However, in the early weeks of this season City have look a faded force from the prime of Guardiola's reign, when they won back to back Premier League titles in 2018 and 2019.

<h2>- Gundogan's moment of magic -</h2>

A sluggish start against Porto was punished by Diaz who opened the scoring with a brilliant solo run and finish.

City levelled with a good deal of fortune when Gundogan inadvertently caught Porto goalkeeper Agustin Marchesin as he tried to direct the ball goalwards and, after the German's shot came off the post, Raheem Sterling was barged over in the box by Pepe.

After a lengthy VAR review, Gundogan's challenge was not deemed a foul that would have overturned the initial decision to award a penalty, and Aguero smashed home his first goal of the season.

City regained control after the break, but it wasn't until a moment of magic from Gundogan 25 minutes from time that they went in front.

The midfielder won a free-kick on the edge of the area and then curled the ball over the wall and into the net to the relief of Guardiola, who was about to replace him.

Gundogan was starting for the first time since testing positive for coronavirus and he was replaced seconds after scoring as Guardiola added a fresh injection of pace in Phil Foden and Torres, who combined for the latter to make it 3-1 in style.

Gundogan, though, said City will need a squad effort to get through the next few months.

"We are struggling at this moment," said Gundogan. "Fernandinho went off, we have a few injured players. Even me, I am not 100 percent because I was out with Covid for a couple of weeks.

"That's the challenge this season and it's not going to end for a while, but we will take every game as it comes. We have enough players who have the quality to play."

Pep Guardiola said an injury to Fernandinho late in Manchester City's 3-1 win over Porto to begin their Champions League campaign will be far from the last his side suffer with a gruelling schedule ahead.

Pep Guardiola said an injury to Fernandinho late in Manchester City's 3-1 win over Porto to begin their Champions League campaign will be far from the last his side suffer with a gruelling schedule ahead. City face another 17 games in 2020 with all six Champions League group-stage matches packed into a seven-week stretch either side of the November international break. Guardiola's men have struggled to hit the ground running this season with a short pre-season, coronavirus infections and injuries taking their toll. On Wednesday City missed the presence of the injured Kevin De Bruyne, but battled back to get their latest quest to win a maiden Champions League off to a winning start after Luis Diaz's solo effort put the visitors in front in the first half. Sergio Aguero levelled with a contentious penalty seven minutes later and the Premier League side's quality shone through after half-time as Ilkay Gundogan's free-kick and substitute Ferran Torres' fine finish moved City to the top of Group C. "It's a good start for us," said Guardiola. "We knew the games at home you have to win in this competition. "(Fernandinho) is the bad news, he has a muscular problem so he will be a big loss. In this period we need everyone, but with this calendar it happens." Guardiola admitted on Tuesday to still feeling guilty over the experimental line-up and formation that led to City's latest Champions League calamity in last season's quarter-finals against Lyon in August. The Catalan is into the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium and so this is potentially his last chance to land the prize City most desired when they brought him to Manchester in 2016. However, in the early weeks of this season City have look a faded force from the prime of Guardiola's reign, when they won back to back Premier League titles in 2018 and 2019. - Gundogan's moment of magic - A sluggish start against Porto was punished by Diaz who opened the scoring with a brilliant solo run and finish. City levelled with a good deal of fortune when Gundogan inadvertently caught Porto goalkeeper Agustin Marchesin as he tried to direct the ball goalwards and, after the German's shot came off the post, Raheem Sterling was barged over in the box by Pepe. After a lengthy VAR review, Gundogan's challenge was not deemed a foul that would have overturned the initial decision to award a penalty, and Aguero smashed home his first goal of the season. City regained control after the break, but it wasn't until a moment of magic from Gundogan 25 minutes from time that they went in front. The midfielder won a free-kick on the edge of the area and then curled the ball over the wall and into the net to the relief of Guardiola, who was about to replace him. Gundogan was starting for the first time since testing positive for coronavirus and he was replaced seconds after scoring as Guardiola added a fresh injection of pace in Phil Foden and Torres, who combined for the latter to make it 3-1 in style. Gundogan, though, said City will need a squad effort to get through the next few months. "We are struggling at this moment," said Gundogan. "Fernandinho went off, we have a few injured players. Even me, I am not 100 percent because I was out with Covid for a couple of weeks. "That's the challenge this season and it's not going to end for a while, but we will take every game as it comes. We have enough players who have the quality to play."

Guardiola bemoans gruelling schedule as sluggish Man City see off Porto

Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti on Thursday defended goalkeeper Jordan Pickford over a reckless tackle that left Liverpool defender Virgil Van Dijk with a serious injury as he said that suggesting it was pre-meditated tackle was “not fair”.

The England international has been central to widespread criticism, mostly from Liverpool fans, after his challenge in last week’s Merseyside derby, which left the Dutch centre-back with knee ligament damage.

Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum said that the goalkeeper was “stupid” and made the challenge without any concern for his opponent’s welfare.

However, Ancelotti has dismissed the tack while saying that everyone at Everton is sorry about Van Dijk’s injury, which will keep him out for several months.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-tests-positive-for-covid-19-yet-again-could-miss-face-off-with-lionel-messi-337213" hreflang="en">Cristiano Ronaldo tests positive for COVID-19 yet again, could miss face-off with Lionel Messi</a>

"To be clear, we are really sorry for the injury of Virgil van Dijk. Every one of us hopes he can recover soon and well," he told Everton TV.

"There was this contact with Jordan Pickford. It was mistimed contact but the fact the Premier League is so fast, it is not so difficult to arrive a little bit later."

The Everton boss said his goalkeeper's intention had been to win the ball, not to hurt Van Dijk.

"To say it was pre-meditated and this and that, in my opinion, is too much," he said. "Virgil van Dijk knows this. This is football and unfortunately, you can be injured.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/klopp-hails-spirit-as-liverpool-show-they-can-cope-without-van-dijk-337062" hreflang="en">Klopp hails spirit as Liverpool show they can cope without Van Dijk</a>

"Jordan is really sad, really disappointed (Van Dijk is injured) but to say it was pre-meditated, it was stupid, is not fair.

"It was a strong contact, maybe mistimed, but sometimes in football, it can happen."

Ancelotti further revealed that James Rodriguez and Seamus Coleman will miss Sunday’s visit to Southampton due to injury.

Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti on Thursday defended goalkeeper Jordan Pickford over a reckless tackle that left Liverpool defender Virgil Van Dijk with a serious injury as he said that suggesting it was pre-meditated tackle was “not fair”.

Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti on Thursday defended goalkeeper Jordan Pickford over a reckless tackle that left Liverpool defender Virgil Van Dijk with a serious injury as he said that suggesting it was pre-meditated tackle was “not fair”. The England international has been central to widespread criticism, mostly from Liverpool fans, after his challenge in last week’s Merseyside derby, which left the Dutch centre-back with knee ligament damage. Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum said that the goalkeeper was “stupid” and made the challenge without any concern for his opponent’s welfare. However, Ancelotti has dismissed the tack while saying that everyone at Everton is sorry about Van Dijk’s injury, which will keep him out for several months. ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo tests positive for COVID-19 yet again, could miss face-off with Lionel Messi "To be clear, we are really sorry for the injury of Virgil van Dijk. Every one of us hopes he can recover soon and well," he told Everton TV. "There was this contact with Jordan Pickford. It was mistimed contact but the fact the Premier League is so fast, it is not so difficult to arrive a little bit later." The Everton boss said his goalkeeper's intention had been to win the ball, not to hurt Van Dijk. "To say it was pre-meditated and this and that, in my opinion, is too much," he said. "Virgil van Dijk knows this. This is football and unfortunately, you can be injured. ALSO READ: Klopp hails spirit as Liverpool show they can cope without Van Dijk "Jordan is really sad, really disappointed (Van Dijk is injured) but to say it was pre-meditated, it was stupid, is not fair. "It was a strong contact, maybe mistimed, but sometimes in football, it can happen." Ancelotti further revealed that James Rodriguez and Seamus Coleman will miss Sunday’s visit to Southampton due to injury.

Premier League: Carlo Ancelotti defends Jordan Pickford over Van Dijk tackle row

El Clasico, the most-watched club game in world football, is back, with FC Barcelona set to host Real Madrid at the Camp Nou on Saturday&nbsp;at 7:30 pm. An unpredictable, live-action drama shown all over the world by over 100 LaLiga partners and now into its 90th&nbsp;season – a feat unprecedented in the entertainment world. The LaLiga El Clasico saga has gifted us a stream of incredible storylines over the years, including the greatness of legends such as Johan Cruyff, Alfredo Di Stefano and more recently Ronaldinho, Sergio Ramos and Lionel Messi, unforgettable moments of both showmanship and sportsmanship, and technological and broadcast landmarks.

<h2>The first El Clasico of the COVID-19 era</h2>

Enjoying El Clasico, or LaLiga football in general, seemed unlikely just months ago, with the world in lockdown in the midst of the global COVID-19 pandemic. But LaLiga’s comprehensive #BackToWin strategy – which laid out an extensive multi-phase plan to restart the season with regular COVID-19 testing covering personal behaviour away from training facilities, in homes and daily lives – ensured not only that the 2019/20 LaLiga Santander season could be completed in the space of just 39 days without a single positive case but also that the 2020/21 season started on time in early September.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-rolls-out-red-carpet-in-new-delhi-and-multiple-cities-around-the-world-to-celebrate-el-clasico-336891" hreflang="en">La Liga rolls out red carpet in New Delhi and multiple cities around the world to celebrate El Clasico</a>

<h2>Over 100 ElClasico-themed actions organised all over the world</h2>

Though governmental health restrictions mean fans won’t be in the Camp Nou stands for this first-ever El Clasico behind closed doors, LaLiga has ensured that fans around the world will still be able to come together for the greatest show in club football.

Over 100 ElClasico-themed actions are being organised across the world, among them a public viewing for up to 700 fans in Shanghai, watch parties in Vietnam, Dubai, South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya and other locations across the African continent. Over in Latin America, meanwhile, fans will be able to enjoy the action from the comfort of their own cars in a series of drive-in cinema locations across Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador and Argentina. LaLiga will also celebrate the ‘premiere’ of its flagship show by lining red carpets at well-known landmarks in the United States, United Kingdom, India, Australia, Senegal, Colombia and Tajikistan to remind fans that El Clasico offers entertainment like no other.

<h2>An unrivalled broadcast and digital experience</h2>

No matter their location in the world, a potential audience of 650 million fans will be able to watch El Clasico like never before. New match broadcast graphics and statistics powered by cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence and Augmented Reality now provide fans with a more complete viewing experience than ever before, and pioneering virtualised crowd and audio technology complements the on-field action while fans are yet to return to LaLiga stadiums. With 14 LaLiga Santander stadiums kitted out with aerial cameras and aerial drones now capturing new and exclusive angles, the action never looked so good on a screen. El Clasico will be shown live in India on Facebook for free.

LaLiga’s 22 international social media channels publishing exciting content in the week leading up the match as well live streaming the all-important pre-match buildup in the two hours before kick-off to over 120 million followers around the world. A special online Fan Zone will be created giving fans a chance to win replica shirts of their favourite clubs, while a brand new mobile game, Score Words LaLiga, will be launched in line with the match offering fun challenges and online gameplay. In short, fans’ second screens will also be as busy and engaging as ever.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-sets-record-by-scoring-in-16th-straight-champions-league-season-336807" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi sets record by scoring in 16th straight Champions League season</a>

<h2>The stars of El Clasico</h2>

As always, the greatest stars in world football will be on show for the millions of viewers around the globe. Superstars such as all-time ElClasico top scorer and six-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi and Ramos, the man with the most ElClasico appearances in history, are back this season, as are established international stars like Luka Modric, Gerard Pique, Karim Benzema, Frenkie de Jong and Thibaut Courtois.

A key talking point of ElClasico Season 90 will also be the plethora of exciting new faces on show. Dutch coach and former Barça legend Ronald Koeman returned to the Camp Nou this summer charged with leading an ambitious wholescale rebuilding project and has made some of the most talked-about moves in this summer’s European transfer market, welcoming the likes of Sergiño Dest – the first American to ever represent Barcelona in LaLiga – Trincao and Miralem Pjanic to the Catalan capital. On the other side of the El Clasico divide, Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane – like Koeman, one of the most iconic players in his club’s history and in the ElClasico story – leads a mostly unchanged squad to that which steamrolled its way to the LaLiga Santander title after the break forced by COVID-19 last season.

Add in the fact that this season’s ElClasico boasts some of the most exciting young talents in world football under the age of 21, among them teenage prodigy Ansu Fati – Barcelona’s youngest-ever goalscorer – the aforementioned Dest, and at Real Madrid Norwegian wonderkid Martin Odegaard and Vinicius Jr, and this ElClasico is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling and intriguing clashes between the two sides in recent memory.

Everything is in place for the return of ElClasico, the best footballers in the world and the best fan experience possible.

El Clasico, the most-watched club game in world football, is back, with FC Barcelona set to host Real Madrid at the Camp Nou on Saturday at 7:30 pm. An unpredictable, live-action drama shown all over the world by over 100 LaLiga partners and now into its 90th season – a feat unprecedented in the entertainment world.

El Clasico, the most-watched club game in world football, is back, with FC Barcelona set to host Real Madrid at the Camp Nou on Saturday at 7:30 pm. An unpredictable, live-action drama shown all over the world by over 100 LaLiga partners and now into its 90th season – a feat unprecedented in the entertainment world. The LaLiga El Clasico saga has gifted us a stream of incredible storylines over the years, including the greatness of legends such as Johan Cruyff, Alfredo Di Stefano and more recently Ronaldinho, Sergio Ramos and Lionel Messi, unforgettable moments of both showmanship and sportsmanship, and technological and broadcast landmarks. The first El Clasico of the COVID-19 era Enjoying El Clasico, or LaLiga football in general, seemed unlikely just months ago, with the world in lockdown in the midst of the global COVID-19 pandemic. But LaLiga’s comprehensive #BackToWin strategy – which laid out an extensive multi-phase plan to restart the season with regular COVID-19 testing covering personal behaviour away from training facilities, in homes and daily lives – ensured not only that the 2019/20 LaLiga Santander season could be completed in the space of just 39 days without a single positive case but also that the 2020/21 season started on time in early September. ALSO READ: La Liga rolls out red carpet in New Delhi and multiple cities around the world to celebrate El Clasico Over 100 ElClasico-themed actions organised all over the world Though governmental health restrictions mean fans won’t be in the Camp Nou stands for this first-ever El Clasico behind closed doors, LaLiga has ensured that fans around the world will still be able to come together for the greatest show in club football. Over 100 ElClasico-themed actions are being organised across the world, among them a public viewing for up to 700 fans in Shanghai, watch parties in Vietnam, Dubai, South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya and other locations across the African continent. Over in Latin America, meanwhile, fans will be able to enjoy the action from the comfort of their own cars in a series of drive-in cinema locations across Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador and Argentina. LaLiga will also celebrate the ‘premiere’ of its flagship show by lining red carpets at well-known landmarks in the United States, United Kingdom, India, Australia, Senegal, Colombia and Tajikistan to remind fans that El Clasico offers entertainment like no other. An unrivalled broadcast and digital experience No matter their location in the world, a potential audience of 650 million fans will be able to watch El Clasico like never before. New match broadcast graphics and statistics powered by cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence and Augmented Reality now provide fans with a more complete viewing experience than ever before, and pioneering virtualised crowd and audio technology complements the on-field action while fans are yet to return to LaLiga stadiums. With 14 LaLiga Santander stadiums kitted out with aerial cameras and aerial drones now capturing new and exclusive angles, the action never looked so good on a screen. El Clasico will be shown live in India on Facebook for free. LaLiga’s 22 international social media channels publishing exciting content in the week leading up the match as well live streaming the all-important pre-match buildup in the two hours before kick-off to over 120 million followers around the world. A special online Fan Zone will be created giving fans a chance to win replica shirts of their favourite clubs, while a brand new mobile game, Score Words LaLiga, will be launched in line with the match offering fun challenges and online gameplay. In short, fans’ second screens will also be as busy and engaging as ever. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi sets record by scoring in 16th straight Champions League season The stars of El Clasico As always, the greatest stars in world football will be on show for the millions of viewers around the globe. Superstars such as all-time ElClasico top scorer and six-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi and Ramos, the man with the most ElClasico appearances in history, are back this season, as are established international stars like Luka Modric, Gerard Pique, Karim Benzema, Frenkie de Jong and Thibaut Courtois. A key talking point of ElClasico Season 90 will also be the plethora of exciting new faces on show. Dutch coach and former Barça legend Ronald Koeman returned to the Camp Nou this summer charged with leading an ambitious wholescale rebuilding project and has made some of the most talked-about moves in this summer’s European transfer market, welcoming the likes of Sergiño Dest – the first American to ever represent Barcelona in LaLiga – Trincao and Miralem Pjanic to the Catalan capital. On the other side of the El Clasico divide, Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane – like Koeman, one of the most iconic players in his club’s history and in the ElClasico story – leads a mostly unchanged squad to that which steamrolled its way to the LaLiga Santander title after the break forced by COVID-19 last season. Add in the fact that this season’s ElClasico boasts some of the most exciting young talents in world football under the age of 21, among them teenage prodigy Ansu Fati – Barcelona’s youngest-ever goalscorer – the aforementioned Dest, and at Real Madrid Norwegian wonderkid Martin Odegaard and Vinicius Jr, and this ElClasico is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling and intriguing clashes between the two sides in recent memory. Everything is in place for the return of ElClasico, the best footballers in the world and the best fan experience possible.

La Liga braces itself for the first El Clasico of the COVID-19 era

Portuguese megastar Cristiano Ronaldo has once again tested positive for COVID-19 and is now set to miss Juventus’ UEFA Champions League against Barcelona next week while denying the footballing world with a grand reunion with Lionel Messi.

Ronaldo first tested positive for COVID-19 just days after playing for Portugal against Spain and France instilling the Juventus faithful with fear that the star forward would miss the club’s UCL encounter against Barcelona – which seems to have come true.

The 35-year-old has tested positive for coronavirus again, as per Spanish outlet Marca while a report in Correio da Manha claims that Ronaldo’s test gave a very low viral load despite the Portuguese testing positive. Juventus haven’t given up on Ronaldo’s return for their match against Barcelona.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arteta-feels-he-has-failed-arsenal-over-ozil-omission-337064" hreflang="en">Arteta feels he has 'failed' Arsenal over Ozil omission</a>

Juventus are now set to ask UEFA for permission to test Ronaldo 48 hours before their encounter against Barcelona on October 28 with the final call lying with the European body. UEFA protocols say that a player must test negative at least one week before a match to be eligible for selection.

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Thursday style! 😉 <a href="https://t.co/OlNhOit0vh">pic.twitter.com/OlNhOit0vh</a>
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano/status/1319254937335902209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Ronaldo, who has shaved his head, has been seen training in his house as per Instagram activities while flexing his finely crafted physique.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/guardiola-bemoans-gruelling-schedule-as-sluggish-man-city-see-off-porto-337059" hreflang="en">Guardiola bemoans gruelling schedule as sluggish Man City see off Porto</a>

Ronaldo and Messi, who ruled the last decade, have not faced each other in the UEFA Champions League since the semi-final between Real Madrid and Barcelona on 2011-12 season.

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“El éxito en la vida no se mide por lo que logras, sino por los obstáculos que superas” 😉💪🏽 <a href="https://t.co/XCdeSqFv9Y">pic.twitter.com/XCdeSqFv9Y</a>
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano/status/1318885562602954758?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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On Thursday, Ronaldo posted a selfie of himself on social media platform Instagram as he was seen sitting at his dinner table and captioned the photo: “Thursday style!” 
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Portuguese megastar Cristiano Ronaldo has once again tested positive for COVID-19 and is now set to miss Juventus’ UEFA Champions League against Barcelona next week while denying the footballing world with a grand reunion with Lionel Messi.

Portuguese megastar Cristiano Ronaldo has once again tested positive for COVID-19 and is now set to miss Juventus’ UEFA Champions League against Barcelona next week while denying the footballing world with a grand reunion with Lionel Messi. Ronaldo first tested positive for COVID-19 just days after playing for Portugal against Spain and France instilling the Juventus faithful with fear that the star forward would miss the club’s UCL encounter against Barcelona – which seems to have come true. The 35-year-old has tested positive for coronavirus again, as per Spanish outlet Marca while a report in Correio da Manha claims that Ronaldo’s test gave a very low viral load despite the Portuguese testing positive. Juventus haven’t given up on Ronaldo’s return for their match against Barcelona. ALSO READ: Arteta feels he has 'failed' Arsenal over Ozil omission Juventus are now set to ask UEFA for permission to test Ronaldo 48 hours before their encounter against Barcelona on October 28 with the final call lying with the European body. UEFA protocols say that a player must test negative at least one week before a match to be eligible for selection. Thursday style! 😉 pic.twitter.com/OlNhOit0vh — Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) October 22, 2020 × Meanwhile, Ronaldo, who has shaved his head, has been seen training in his house as per Instagram activities while flexing his finely crafted physique. ALSO READ: Guardiola bemoans gruelling schedule as sluggish Man City see off Porto Ronaldo and Messi, who ruled the last decade, have not faced each other in the UEFA Champions League since the semi-final between Real Madrid and Barcelona on 2011-12 season. “El éxito en la vida no se mide por lo que logras, sino por los obstáculos que superas” 😉💪🏽 pic.twitter.com/XCdeSqFv9Y — Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) October 21, 2020 × On Thursday, Ronaldo posted a selfie of himself on social media platform Instagram as he was seen sitting at his dinner table and captioned the photo: “Thursday style!”

Cristiano Ronaldo tests positive for COVID-19 yet again, could miss face-off with Lionel Messi

Women's T20 Challenge: From Smriti Mandhana to Mithali Raj, players arrive at UAE in full PPE kits

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Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.