<p>Manchester City`s Kevin de Bruyne and Chelsea pair N`Golo Kante and Jorginho are in the running for UEFA`s 2020-21 male player of the year award after topping an all-midfield shortlist published on Thursday.<br />
<br />
All featured in Euro 2020 -- De Bruyne for Belgium, Kante with France and Jorginho with winners Italy -- and the shortlist is the first in the 11-year existence of the award to feature only midfielders.<br />
<br />
UEFA did not reveal the number of votes cast for the three.<br />
<br />
Barcelona`s Lionel Messi, the six times Ballon d`Or winner who has moved from Barcelona to Paris St Germain, was fourth on the list.<br />
<br />
Bayern Munich`s Polish striker Robert Lewandowski, last year`s winner, came in fifth with PSG`s Gianluigi Donnarumma and Kylian Mbappe sixth and seventh.<br />
<br />
The top player from Euro 2020 finalists England was Manchester City`s Raheem Sterling in eighth. Portugal and Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo was ninth and Norway and Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland 10th.<br />
<br />
The votes were cast by coaches of the 24 national teams that featured at Euro 2020 as well as 80 coaches of clubs that played in the group stages of UEFA`s competitions and journalists from each of UEFA`s 55 member associations.<br />
<br />
The winner will be named on Aug. 26, along with UEFA`s women`s player of the year and Champions League positional award winners, at the Champions League group stage draw in Istanbul.<br />
<br />
The women`s shortlist is comprised of three Barcelona midfielders -- Jennifer Hermoso and Lieke Martens along with Alexia Putellas.<br />
<br />
The shortlist for men`s coach of the year featured Champions league finalists Pep Guardiola of Manchester City and Thomas Tuchel of Chelsea along with Italy`s Roberto Mancini.<br />
<br />
The women`s team coach of the year has two men in the running with Barcelona`s Lluis Cortes and Sweden`s Peter Gerhardsson up against Chelsea`s Emma Hayes.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Manchester City`s Kevin de Bruyne and Chelsea pair N`Golo Kante and Jorginho are in the running for UEFA`s 2020-21 male player of the year award after topping an all-midfield shortlist published on Thursday.

Manchester City`s Kevin de Bruyne and Chelsea pair N`Golo Kante and Jorginho are in the running for UEFA`s 2020-21 male player of the year award after topping an all-midfield shortlist published on Thursday. All featured in Euro 2020 -- De Bruyne for Belgium, Kante with France and Jorginho with winners Italy -- and the shortlist is the first in the 11-year existence of the award to feature only midfielders. UEFA did not reveal the number of votes cast for the three. Barcelona`s Lionel Messi, the six times Ballon d`Or winner who has moved from Barcelona to Paris St Germain, was fourth on the list. Bayern Munich`s Polish striker Robert Lewandowski, last year`s winner, came in fifth with PSG`s Gianluigi Donnarumma and Kylian Mbappe sixth and seventh. The top player from Euro 2020 finalists England was Manchester City`s Raheem Sterling in eighth. Portugal and Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo was ninth and Norway and Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland 10th. The votes were cast by coaches of the 24 national teams that featured at Euro 2020 as well as 80 coaches of clubs that played in the group stages of UEFA`s competitions and journalists from each of UEFA`s 55 member associations. The winner will be named on Aug. 26, along with UEFA`s women`s player of the year and Champions League positional award winners, at the Champions League group stage draw in Istanbul. The women`s shortlist is comprised of three Barcelona midfielders -- Jennifer Hermoso and Lieke Martens along with Alexia Putellas. The shortlist for men`s coach of the year featured Champions league finalists Pep Guardiola of Manchester City and Thomas Tuchel of Chelsea along with Italy`s Roberto Mancini. The women`s team coach of the year has two men in the running with Barcelona`s Lluis Cortes and Sweden`s Peter Gerhardsson up against Chelsea`s Emma Hayes.

Football - De Bruyne, Kante and Jorginho up for UEFA Player of the Year

<p>Jose Mourinho was never going to walk into a new job quietly, with all eyes on the new AS Roma coach on the eve of the Serie A campaign after a close season full of fireworks.</p>

<p>The final enduring image of Mourinho's first and trophy-laden spell in Italy, was of distraught Inter Milan defender Marco Materazzi being consoled by the Portuguese after hearing of his coach's decision to leave for Real Madrid.</p>

<p>Having steered Inter to an unprecedented treble in 2010, Mourinho, also in tears, departed after winning everything he could in a short two-year tenure. Now back in Serie A with Roma, he returns a different proposition entirely.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-im-breaking-my-silence-cristiano-ronaldo-reacts-to-real-madrid-move-406454">'I'm breaking my silence...': Cristiano Ronaldo reacts to Real Madrid move</a></strong></p>

<p>Mourinho has suffered declining levels of success since leaving Italy 11 years ago, having won two league titles in that time, compared to six in the previous eight campaigns.</p>

<p>After several much publicised bust-ups with players during his previous two jobs in England, the new image of Mourinho is not one of player adulation and unrivalled glory, but one of a fiery, confrontational figure who is back in Italy to ruffle some feathers.</p>

<p>He is, however, fully aware, that the Italian media will be hanging on his every word.</p>

<p>"I am smiling because I had a record of 40 days without interviews," Mourinho joked on Instagram this week.</p>

<p>"(I had an) Amazing time where I only focused on work and forgot my friends from the press. Nothing interesting really to be honest. Love the press, (I have) missed them a lot."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zakia-khudadadis-dream-of-becoming-first-afghan-female-paralympian-shattered-due-to-taliban-takeover-chaos-406300">Zakia Khudadadi's dream of becoming first Afghan female Paralympian shattered due to Taliban takeover chaos</a></strong></p>

<p>He has already been causing a stir, even before the season is under way.</p>

<p>Roma were beaten 5-2 by Spanish side Real Betis earlier this month in a friendly. They finished a bad tempered match with just eight men, having seen three of their players sent off.</p>

<p>Not to be outdone, Mourinho himself was sent off by the referee for being over-zealous in his protests, getting right in the face of the official, despite the match being a friendly.</p>

<p>All the histrionics that come with Mourinho will all be in vain if the results do not go Roma's way, however, such is the expectation that the club need to be challenging at the top of the table.</p>

<p>There is already a huge mural of Mourinho on a Vespa scooter in the Testaccio neighbourhood of Rome, with the Portuguese also having a flavour of ice cream named after him in one of the Italian capital's gelato parlours.</p>

<p>With champions Inter Milan having lost several star players as they were forced to cut costs this summer, and Juventus entering the new campaign on the back of a below par 2020-21 season, there is renewed hope that Mourinho can get Roma challenging quickly.</p>

<p>"Here I go on another Mission: Impossible," Mourinho said in an interview with GQ magazine last month. "I say impossible because people tend to look at me and in their eyes there’s only one way to measure success, which is that I have to win."</p>

<p>Tammy Abraham's big-money arrival from Chelsea gives Mourinho an immediate replacement for outgoing veteran striker Edin Dzeko, while the return to full fitness of Nicolo Zaniolo has provided his coach with a further boost.</p>

<p>But without other major arrivals this summer, it is the coach that fans will be turning to for that immediate improvement.</p>


Jose Mourinho was never going to walk into a new job quietly, with all eyes on the new AS Roma coach on the eve of the Serie A campaign after a close season full of fireworks.

Jose Mourinho was never going to walk into a new job quietly, with all eyes on the new AS Roma coach on the eve of the Serie A campaign after a close season full of fireworks. The final enduring image of Mourinho's first and trophy-laden spell in Italy, was of distraught Inter Milan defender Marco Materazzi being consoled by the Portuguese after hearing of his coach's decision to leave for Real Madrid. Having steered Inter to an unprecedented treble in 2010, Mourinho, also in tears, departed after winning everything he could in a short two-year tenure. Now back in Serie A with Roma, he returns a different proposition entirely. ALSO READ | 'I'm breaking my silence...': Cristiano Ronaldo reacts to Real Madrid move Mourinho has suffered declining levels of success since leaving Italy 11 years ago, having won two league titles in that time, compared to six in the previous eight campaigns. After several much publicised bust-ups with players during his previous two jobs in England, the new image of Mourinho is not one of player adulation and unrivalled glory, but one of a fiery, confrontational figure who is back in Italy to ruffle some feathers. He is, however, fully aware, that the Italian media will be hanging on his every word. "I am smiling because I had a record of 40 days without interviews," Mourinho joked on Instagram this week. "(I had an) Amazing time where I only focused on work and forgot my friends from the press. Nothing interesting really to be honest. Love the press, (I have) missed them a lot." ALSO READ | Zakia Khudadadi's dream of becoming first Afghan female Paralympian shattered due to Taliban takeover chaos He has already been causing a stir, even before the season is under way. Roma were beaten 5-2 by Spanish side Real Betis earlier this month in a friendly. They finished a bad tempered match with just eight men, having seen three of their players sent off. Not to be outdone, Mourinho himself was sent off by the referee for being over-zealous in his protests, getting right in the face of the official, despite the match being a friendly. All the histrionics that come with Mourinho will all be in vain if the results do not go Roma's way, however, such is the expectation that the club need to be challenging at the top of the table. There is already a huge mural of Mourinho on a Vespa scooter in the Testaccio neighbourhood of Rome, with the Portuguese also having a flavour of ice cream named after him in one of the Italian capital's gelato parlours. With champions Inter Milan having lost several star players as they were forced to cut costs this summer, and Juventus entering the new campaign on the back of a below par 2020-21 season, there is renewed hope that Mourinho can get Roma challenging quickly. "Here I go on another Mission: Impossible," Mourinho said in an interview with GQ magazine last month. "I say impossible because people tend to look at me and in their eyes there’s only one way to measure success, which is that I have to win." Tammy Abraham's big-money arrival from Chelsea gives Mourinho an immediate replacement for outgoing veteran striker Edin Dzeko, while the return to full fitness of Nicolo Zaniolo has provided his coach with a further boost. But without other major arrivals this summer, it is the coach that fans will be turning to for that immediate improvement.

Football: Expectations high as Jose Mourinho's Roma tenure looks set for fireworks

<p>Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk said he was excited to return from his "mentally tough" injury layoff as the Netherlands international played Premier League&nbsp;football&nbsp;after nearly 10 months in Saturday's 3-0 win at promoted Norwich City.</p>

<p>Liverpool eased into the new Premier League season as goals by Diogo Jota, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah earned them a comfortable victory.</p>

<p>The Merseyside club enjoyed a relatively trouble-free evening at Carrow Road with defensive linchpin Van Dijk making his first top-flight appearance after picking up a serious knee injury in last season's Merseyside derby in October.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/football-its-cool-football-is-back-says-liverpool-manager-juergen-klopp-405459" hreflang="en">Football: 'It's cool, football is back,' says Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp</a></p>

<p>Van Dijk played just five league games last season before his injury and Liverpool felt his absence as they were unable to defend their league title, finishing in third place.</p>

<p>"Mentally it's tough," Van Dijk told Sky Sports. "One day you're fully fit, the next you're full of medication and in pain.</p>

<p>"We had more injuries in key positions (last season) so couldn't play our game, the way we want to play, with high pressure.</p>

<p>"To be back out there helping the boys, I hope to continue that. I need games - the manager knows it, I know it. It's a good start. Now we have time to recover for next week," the BBC quoted the Dutchman as saying.</p>

<p>Liverpool host Burnley on Aug. 21.</p>


Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk said he was excited to return from his "mentally tough" injury layoff as the Netherlands international played Premier League football after nearly 10 months in Saturday's 3-0 win at promoted Norwich City.

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk said he was excited to return from his "mentally tough" injury layoff as the Netherlands international played Premier League football after nearly 10 months in Saturday's 3-0 win at promoted Norwich City. Liverpool eased into the new Premier League season as goals by Diogo Jota, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah earned them a comfortable victory. The Merseyside club enjoyed a relatively trouble-free evening at Carrow Road with defensive linchpin Van Dijk making his first top-flight appearance after picking up a serious knee injury in last season's Merseyside derby in October. ALSO READ: Football: 'It's cool, football is back,' says Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp Van Dijk played just five league games last season before his injury and Liverpool felt his absence as they were unable to defend their league title, finishing in third place. "Mentally it's tough," Van Dijk told Sky Sports. "One day you're fully fit, the next you're full of medication and in pain. "We had more injuries in key positions (last season) so couldn't play our game, the way we want to play, with high pressure. "To be back out there helping the boys, I hope to continue that. I need games - the manager knows it, I know it. It's a good start. Now we have time to recover for next week," the BBC quoted the Dutchman as saying. Liverpool host Burnley on Aug. 21.

Football: Liverpool's Virgil Van Dijk relishing Premier League return after 10-month absence

<p>Mainz 05, who have around a dozen players in COVID-19 quarantine, struck early to stun last season`s Bundesliga runners-up RB Leipzig 1-0 on Sunday and spoil new coach Jesse Marsch`s first league match in charge.<br />
<br />
The game had been in doubt after several Mainz players and coaching staff tested positive for COVID-19 and 11 players and three staff were sent into isolation.<br />
<br />
Mainz`s Moussa Niakhate tapped in at the far post in the 13th minute, however, after a disastrous Leipzig attempt to clear the ball sent it into his path.<br />
<br />
Lee Jae-sung also hit the woodwork for Mainz but Leipzig gradually took control and made their own chances for Christopher Nkunku and Angelino.<br />
<br />
In a largely one-sided second half, Leipzig pushed Mainz back deep but struggled to create openings, although they did come close with Mohamed Simakan`s double chance on the hour and Mukiele`s shot.<br />
<br />
"It wasn`t how we were hoping to start the season," Leipzig coach Marsch, who succeeded Julian Nagelsmann, said.<br />
<br />
"Mainz sat back and defended after their goal and fought for every ball. That didn`t leave much space for us. It definitely wasn`t our best game, but we will continue to work.<br />
<br />
"In total not our best day. It is okay that when we have the first tough result we are still a work in progress," American Marsch added.<br />
<br />
Champions Bayern Munich kicked off their season on Friday with a 1-1 draw at Borussia Moenchengladbach while fellow title contenders Borussia Dortmund crushed Eintracht Frankfurt 5-2 on Saturday.</p>


Mainz 05, who have around a dozen players in COVID-19 quarantine, struck early to stun last season`s Bundesliga runners-up RB Leipzig 1-0 on Sunday and spoil new coach Jesse Marsch`s first league match in charge.

Mainz 05, who have around a dozen players in COVID-19 quarantine, struck early to stun last season`s Bundesliga runners-up RB Leipzig 1-0 on Sunday and spoil new coach Jesse Marsch`s first league match in charge. The game had been in doubt after several Mainz players and coaching staff tested positive for COVID-19 and 11 players and three staff were sent into isolation. Mainz`s Moussa Niakhate tapped in at the far post in the 13th minute, however, after a disastrous Leipzig attempt to clear the ball sent it into his path. Lee Jae-sung also hit the woodwork for Mainz but Leipzig gradually took control and made their own chances for Christopher Nkunku and Angelino. In a largely one-sided second half, Leipzig pushed Mainz back deep but struggled to create openings, although they did come close with Mohamed Simakan`s double chance on the hour and Mukiele`s shot. "It wasn`t how we were hoping to start the season," Leipzig coach Marsch, who succeeded Julian Nagelsmann, said. "Mainz sat back and defended after their goal and fought for every ball. That didn`t leave much space for us. It definitely wasn`t our best game, but we will continue to work. "In total not our best day. It is okay that when we have the first tough result we are still a work in progress," American Marsch added. Champions Bayern Munich kicked off their season on Friday with a 1-1 draw at Borussia Moenchengladbach while fellow title contenders Borussia Dortmund crushed Eintracht Frankfurt 5-2 on Saturday.

Football - COVID-hit Mainz upset Leipzig in season opener

From setting records to battling personal demons: Life of German legend Gerd Muller

<p>Bayern Munich's legendary striker Gerd Muller has died at the age of 75, the club said on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-pep-guardiola-defends-manchester-citys-big-spending-in-transfer-market-405661" hreflang="en">Football: Pep Guardiola defends Manchester City's big spending in transfer market</a></p>

<p>"Today is a sad, black day for FC Bayern and all of its fans. Gerd Muller was the greatest striker there has ever been -- and a fine person, a personality in world football," Bayern president Herbert Hainer said in a statement.</p>

<p>"We are united in deep sorrow with his wife Uschi and his family. Without Gerd Müller, FC Bayern would not be the club we all love today. His name and the memory of him will live on forever."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Muller was an absolute legend in&nbsp;the game. He had scored 68 goals in 62 appearances for West Germany. The German footballer played a crucial role in the 1975 World Cup as he scored the winning goal in the finals against the Netherlands.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The footballer scored a record 365 goals in 427 Bundesliga games and 66 goals in 74 European matches during his 15 years at Bayern.</p>

<p>In 2015, Muller was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease shortly before his 70th birthday. The legendary striker is survived by wife Uschi and daughter Nicole.</p>


Bayern Munich's legendary striker Gerd Muller has died at the age of 75, the club said on Sunday. ALSO READ: Football: Pep Guardiola defends Manchester City's big spending in transfer market "Today is a sad, black day for FC Bayern and all of its fans.

Bayern Munich's legendary striker Gerd Muller has died at the age of 75, the club said on Sunday. ALSO READ: Football: Pep Guardiola defends Manchester City's big spending in transfer market "Today is a sad, black day for FC Bayern and all of its fans. Gerd Muller was the greatest striker there has ever been -- and a fine person, a personality in world football," Bayern president Herbert Hainer said in a statement. "We are united in deep sorrow with his wife Uschi and his family. Without Gerd Müller, FC Bayern would not be the club we all love today. His name and the memory of him will live on forever." Muller was an absolute legend in the game. He had scored 68 goals in 62 appearances for West Germany. The German footballer played a crucial role in the 1975 World Cup as he scored the winning goal in the finals against the Netherlands. The footballer scored a record 365 goals in 427 Bundesliga games and 66 goals in 74 European matches during his 15 years at Bayern. In 2015, Muller was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease shortly before his 70th birthday. The legendary striker is survived by wife Uschi and daughter Nicole.

Football - Bayern Munich legend Gerd Muller passes away at 75

<p>Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has defended the Premier League champions' transfer spending in the wake of the British record signing of midfielder Jack Grealish, saying the club adheres to Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules.</p>

<p>European soccer governing body UEFA's FFP rules were introduced in 2009 to prevent clubs from spending beyond their means and distorting the market, requiring teams to break even and keep wages and transfer fees in line with income.</p>

<p>In July last year, City's two-year suspension from European&nbsp;football&nbsp;was overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after it ruled that City did not breach FFP rules.</p>

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<p>The club's spending has raised questions again after they signed Grealish for 100 million pounds&nbsp;from Aston Villa, but Guardiola said the deal was possible because of 60 million pounds worth of sales by the club over the past 12 months.</p>

<p>"We have limits because of FFP," Guardiola said. "We are on the same page like everyone. After that, each club decides what they want to do.</p>

<p>"Every season we have passed the controls that are there for everyone. If we are wrong, prove it.</p>

<p>"I have said before, there are owners who want the benefits for themselves. Our owners don't want to lose money but if they can spend, they will."</p>

<p>British media have reported City are also ready to pay in excess of 120 million pounds to sign Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane as they look to replace Sergio Aguero, who left City&nbsp;at the end of last season after a decade-long association.</p>

<p>City begins their Premier League title defense with a trip to Tottenham Hotspur later on Sunday.</p>


Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has defended the Premier League champions' transfer spending in the wake of the British record signing of midfielder Jack Grealish, saying the club adheres to Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has defended the Premier League champions' transfer spending in the wake of the British record signing of midfielder Jack Grealish, saying the club adheres to Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules. European soccer governing body UEFA's FFP rules were introduced in 2009 to prevent clubs from spending beyond their means and distorting the market, requiring teams to break even and keep wages and transfer fees in line with income. In July last year, City's two-year suspension from European football was overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after it ruled that City did not breach FFP rules. ALSO READ: Football: Chelsea not Premier League title favourites, says manager Thomas Tuchel The club's spending has raised questions again after they signed Grealish for 100 million pounds from Aston Villa, but Guardiola said the deal was possible because of 60 million pounds worth of sales by the club over the past 12 months. "We have limits because of FFP," Guardiola said. "We are on the same page like everyone. After that, each club decides what they want to do. "Every season we have passed the controls that are there for everyone. If we are wrong, prove it. "I have said before, there are owners who want the benefits for themselves. Our owners don't want to lose money but if they can spend, they will." British media have reported City are also ready to pay in excess of 120 million pounds to sign Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane as they look to replace Sergio Aguero, who left City at the end of last season after a decade-long association. City begins their Premier League title defense with a trip to Tottenham Hotspur later on Sunday.

Football: Pep Guardiola defends Manchester City's big spending in transfer market

<p>Real Madrid's star defender Raphael Varane has joined Premier League giants Manchester United on Saturday. The defender joined the Red Devils on a four-year contract, the Premier League club said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/football-here-is-how-much-lionel-messi-will-be-%20making-at-paris-saint-germain-check-out-the-mind-blowing-figures-404840" hreflang="en">Football: Here is how much Lionel Messi will be making at PSG - Check out the mind-blowing figures</a></p>

<p>"The chance to come here and play in the Premier League is something I couldn't turn down," said Varane, who has 79 caps for France and was part of their World Cup-winning side in 2018.</p>

<p>"I will give everything to become part of this club's illustrious history."</p>

<p>According to British media reports, Real Madrid and Manchester United reached an agreement for the transfer last month, with the English club paying 34 million pounds ($47 million) for Varane.</p>

<p>Raphael Varane is another big name to depart Real Madrid, who already will miss the services of Sergio Ramos. Varane played for Madrid in 360 matches, since joining them in 2011.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He has won 18 major honours during his time in Spain, including four Champions League and three LaLiga titles.</p>

<p>The 28-year-old played every minute of France's European Championship campaign this summer, where they were eliminated by Switzerland in the last 16.</p>

<p>Varane is United's third signing of the summer as manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looks to build a squad with the aim of improving on last season's second-placed finished in the Premier League.</p>

<p>Varane will join fellow new signings Jadon Sancho, who arrived from Borussia Dortmund for 85 million euros, and goalkeeper Tom Heaton, who returned to Old Trafford on a free transfer from Aston Villa.</p>

<p><em>(Inputs from Agency)</em></p>


Real Madrid's star defender Raphael Varane has joined Premier League giants Manchester United on Saturday. The defender joined the Red Devils on a four-year contract, the Premier League club said.

Real Madrid's star defender Raphael Varane has joined Premier League giants Manchester United on Saturday. The defender joined the Red Devils on a four-year contract, the Premier League club said. ALSO READ: Football: Here is how much Lionel Messi will be making at PSG - Check out the mind-blowing figures "The chance to come here and play in the Premier League is something I couldn't turn down," said Varane, who has 79 caps for France and was part of their World Cup-winning side in 2018. "I will give everything to become part of this club's illustrious history." According to British media reports, Real Madrid and Manchester United reached an agreement for the transfer last month, with the English club paying 34 million pounds ($47 million) for Varane. Raphael Varane is another big name to depart Real Madrid, who already will miss the services of Sergio Ramos. Varane played for Madrid in 360 matches, since joining them in 2011. He has won 18 major honours during his time in Spain, including four Champions League and three LaLiga titles. The 28-year-old played every minute of France's European Championship campaign this summer, where they were eliminated by Switzerland in the last 16. Varane is United's third signing of the summer as manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looks to build a squad with the aim of improving on last season's second-placed finished in the Premier League. Varane will join fellow new signings Jadon Sancho, who arrived from Borussia Dortmund for 85 million euros, and goalkeeper Tom Heaton, who returned to Old Trafford on a free transfer from Aston Villa. (Inputs from Agency)

Football - Star defender Raphael Varane joins Manchester United on a four-year deal

<p>Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, who retired from Mixed Martial Arts in October last year, has been signed by third-tier Russian soccer club FC Legion Dynamo.</p>

<p>Nurmagomedov announced his retirement following his submission victory over American Justin Gaethje on Oct. 24, his first fight following the death of his father Abdulmanap from complications caused by COVID-19.</p>

<p>Fulfilling a promise made to his mother, the 32-year-old left the cage after a stunning run of 13 wins in eight years and a professional record featuring eight knockouts and 11 submission wins in his 29 victories.</p>

<p>In January, Nurmagomedov revealed his intentions to transition to soccer, tweeting&nbsp;that he was preparing for his debut in the sport and "ready to accept offers".</p>

<p>Legion Dynamo, who play in the third-tier Russian Professional Football League and are third in the competition this season, announced the signing on Instagram with a photo of Nurmagomedov shaking the hand of a club official.</p>


Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, who retired from Mixed Martial Arts in October last year, has been signed by third-tier Russian soccer club FC Legion Dynamo.

Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, who retired from Mixed Martial Arts in October last year, has been signed by third-tier Russian soccer club FC Legion Dynamo. Nurmagomedov announced his retirement following his submission victory over American Justin Gaethje on Oct. 24, his first fight following the death of his father Abdulmanap from complications caused by COVID-19. Fulfilling a promise made to his mother, the 32-year-old left the cage after a stunning run of 13 wins in eight years and a professional record featuring eight knockouts and 11 submission wins in his 29 victories. In January, Nurmagomedov revealed his intentions to transition to soccer, tweeting that he was preparing for his debut in the sport and "ready to accept offers". Legion Dynamo, who play in the third-tier Russian Professional Football League and are third in the competition this season, announced the signing on Instagram with a photo of Nurmagomedov shaking the hand of a club official.

Former UFC champion Khabib signed by Russian football club

<p>Aston Villa could be missing striker Ollie Watkins for their Premier League opener at promoted Watford on Saturday but new signing Emiliano Buendia is fit, manager Dean Smith told a news conference on Friday.<br />
<br />
Watkins hurt his knee in a friendly against Salernitana and Smith said it was touch and go whether he would be available.<br />
<br />
"We`re not too sure about Ollie at the moment, he went off with a knee injury (against Salernitana) which was bone bruising, so if he`s pain free today he`ll train, if he`s not then he won`t train and he won`t be available.<br />
<br />
"So we`ll pretty much be guided by Ollie himself."<br />
<br />
Buendia, signed from Norwich City for a fee of around 43 million pounds ($59.37 million), has recovered from a niggle says Smith.<br />
<br />
"Emi had a slight injury so we didn`t risk him in the game against Salernitana, but he`s available, he`s trained all week," Smith said.<br />
<br />
Playmaker Buendia will be expected to be fill the boots of Jack Grealish who signed for champions Manchester City in a British record deal of 100 million pounds.<br />
<br />
Smith says that while it was disappointing to lose club talisman Grealish, the signings of the likes of Buendia, striker Danny Ings and winger Leon Bailey means the squad is actually in better shape than last season.<br />
<br />
"That was the important thing for us that we strengthened the squad depth this season," Smith said. "We felt we had an XI who could compete against anybody, including the top teams last season. Now we`ve got more variation, more adaptability and more depth, and that`s really important for us this season.<br />
<br />
"Obviously Jack going is a big loss, we wanted to keep him here. But I think we`re in a good place, our business has been good, we`ve raised 100 million pounds for a young lad who came through the academy here at Aston Villa. And we`ve made him into a British record transfer."</p>


Aston Villa could be missing striker Ollie Watkins for their Premier League opener at promoted Watford on Saturday but new signing Emiliano Buendia is fit, manager Dean Smith told a news conference on Friday.

Aston Villa could be missing striker Ollie Watkins for their Premier League opener at promoted Watford on Saturday but new signing Emiliano Buendia is fit, manager Dean Smith told a news conference on Friday. Watkins hurt his knee in a friendly against Salernitana and Smith said it was touch and go whether he would be available. "We`re not too sure about Ollie at the moment, he went off with a knee injury (against Salernitana) which was bone bruising, so if he`s pain free today he`ll train, if he`s not then he won`t train and he won`t be available. "So we`ll pretty much be guided by Ollie himself." Buendia, signed from Norwich City for a fee of around 43 million pounds ($59.37 million), has recovered from a niggle says Smith. "Emi had a slight injury so we didn`t risk him in the game against Salernitana, but he`s available, he`s trained all week," Smith said. Playmaker Buendia will be expected to be fill the boots of Jack Grealish who signed for champions Manchester City in a British record deal of 100 million pounds. Smith says that while it was disappointing to lose club talisman Grealish, the signings of the likes of Buendia, striker Danny Ings and winger Leon Bailey means the squad is actually in better shape than last season. "That was the important thing for us that we strengthened the squad depth this season," Smith said. "We felt we had an XI who could compete against anybody, including the top teams last season. Now we`ve got more variation, more adaptability and more depth, and that`s really important for us this season. "Obviously Jack going is a big loss, we wanted to keep him here. But I think we`re in a good place, our business has been good, we`ve raised 100 million pounds for a young lad who came through the academy here at Aston Villa. And we`ve made him into a British record transfer."

Football - Aston Villa waiting on fitness of Watkins for opener

<p>Goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga came off the bench to make two shootout saves as Champions League winners Chelsea beat Spain's Villarreal 6-5 on penalties to add the UEFA Super Cup to their trophy collection on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Extra time had ended 1-1 at Belfast's Windsor Park Stadium, with Chelsea bringing on Kepa for Edouard Mendy in the final seconds in what turned out to be the game's tactical master-stroke.</p>

<p>The freshest player on a field of tired legs saved first from Aissa Mandi at 1-1, after Kai Havertz had missed for Chelsea, and then made the winning stop at 6-5 when Villarreal captain and 2010 World Cup winner Raul Albiol hit the ball to the bottom left.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messis-first-press-conference-with-psg-dreams-of-champions-league-win-with-them-404653" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi's first press conference with PSG: 'Dreams of Champions League win' with them</a></p>

<p>Mendy was one of the first to congratulate his teammate, with Chelsea lifting the trophy for a second time.</p>

<p>"It was certainly not spontaneous," Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel said of the goalkeeper switch.</p>

<p>"We had some statistics, we were well-prepared. Kepa is the best percentage in saving penalties. The analyzing guys, the goalkeeper coaches showed me the data and then we spoke with the players that this can happen.</p>

<p>"And since then they know and it's fantastic how Edu accepts it," added the German. "Kepa is better in this discipline and these guys are true team players."</p>

<p>Mendy said he had no hard feelings at all. "Of course I'm happy because we won," the Senegal international told BT Sport television.</p>

<p>Hakim Ziyech had put Chelsea ahead in the 27th minute, sweeping in from 12 yards after a perfectly measured cross from Kai Havertz on the left.</p>

<p>The Morocco international, an unused substitute when Chelsea beat Manchester City 1-0 in the Champions League final in Porto on May 29, then went off injured four minutes before the break following a collision with Juan Foyth.</p>

<p>Ziyech returned with his right arm in a sling to watch the rest of the match from the bench while Christian Pulisic took his place.</p>

<p>Villarreal, the Europa League holders with a noisy contingent of some 1,000 fans among the 13,000-strong crowd on a clear evening in Northern Ireland, hit the woodwork either side of halftime.</p>

<p>Their equalizer came as no surprise in a lively match with several scoring chances squandered on both sides and both keepers making key saves.</p>

<p>Gerard Moreno -- who scored against Manchester United before the Europa League final in Gdansk went to penalties -- rescued Unai Emery's side in the 73rd with a side-foot finish after a back-heel from Boulaye Dia.</p>

<p>It was Moreno's eighth goal in his last nine European appearances for Villarreal.</p>

<p>"It was tough, 120 minutes," said Tuchel. "We were very strong in the first 30-35 minutes and then we lost a bit easy balls after our goal... the equalizer was well-deserved.</p>

<p>"Right after we conceded the goal we were very strong again, right until the end."</p>

<p>Pulisic had a good chance in the 99th, the ball just running wide, while Mason Mount had a shot pushed out for a corner in the 108th.</p>

<p>Chelsea now turn their thoughts to the start of the Premier League season, and the imminent signing of striker Romelu Lukaku from Inter Milan, with an opening match at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday.</p>


Goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga came off the bench to make two shootout saves as Champions League winners Chelsea beat Spain's Villarreal 6-5 on penalties to add the UEFA Super Cup to their trophy collection on Wednesday.

Goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga came off the bench to make two shootout saves as Champions League winners Chelsea beat Spain's Villarreal 6-5 on penalties to add the UEFA Super Cup to their trophy collection on Wednesday. Extra time had ended 1-1 at Belfast's Windsor Park Stadium, with Chelsea bringing on Kepa for Edouard Mendy in the final seconds in what turned out to be the game's tactical master-stroke. The freshest player on a field of tired legs saved first from Aissa Mandi at 1-1, after Kai Havertz had missed for Chelsea, and then made the winning stop at 6-5 when Villarreal captain and 2010 World Cup winner Raul Albiol hit the ball to the bottom left. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi's first press conference with PSG: 'Dreams of Champions League win' with them Mendy was one of the first to congratulate his teammate, with Chelsea lifting the trophy for a second time. "It was certainly not spontaneous," Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel said of the goalkeeper switch. "We had some statistics, we were well-prepared. Kepa is the best percentage in saving penalties. The analyzing guys, the goalkeeper coaches showed me the data and then we spoke with the players that this can happen. "And since then they know and it's fantastic how Edu accepts it," added the German. "Kepa is better in this discipline and these guys are true team players." Mendy said he had no hard feelings at all. "Of course I'm happy because we won," the Senegal international told BT Sport television. Hakim Ziyech had put Chelsea ahead in the 27th minute, sweeping in from 12 yards after a perfectly measured cross from Kai Havertz on the left. The Morocco international, an unused substitute when Chelsea beat Manchester City 1-0 in the Champions League final in Porto on May 29, then went off injured four minutes before the break following a collision with Juan Foyth. Ziyech returned with his right arm in a sling to watch the rest of the match from the bench while Christian Pulisic took his place. Villarreal, the Europa League holders with a noisy contingent of some 1,000 fans among the 13,000-strong crowd on a clear evening in Northern Ireland, hit the woodwork either side of halftime. Their equalizer came as no surprise in a lively match with several scoring chances squandered on both sides and both keepers making key saves. Gerard Moreno -- who scored against Manchester United before the Europa League final in Gdansk went to penalties -- rescued Unai Emery's side in the 73rd with a side-foot finish after a back-heel from Boulaye Dia. It was Moreno's eighth goal in his last nine European appearances for Villarreal. "It was tough, 120 minutes," said Tuchel. "We were very strong in the first 30-35 minutes and then we lost a bit easy balls after our goal... the equalizer was well-deserved. "Right after we conceded the goal we were very strong again, right until the end." Pulisic had a good chance in the 99th, the ball just running wide, while Mason Mount had a shot pushed out for a corner in the 108th. Chelsea now turn their thoughts to the start of the Premier League season, and the imminent signing of striker Romelu Lukaku from Inter Milan, with an opening match at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Football: Goalkeeper Arrizabalaga Kepa the hero as Chelsea win Super Cup 6-5 on penalties

<p>Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa`s contract situation has been "resolved", the Argentine said on Thursday, ahead of his side`s Premier League opener against Manchester United over the weekend.<br />
<br />
Bielsa did not specify if he had signed a new deal but indicated that he would be at Elland Road for at least another season.<br />
<br />
"The contract situation is one that is already resolved... one year is habitual," Bielsa told reporters.<br />
<br />
The 66-year-old, who took charge of Leeds in 2018 and led them to promotion to the Premier League two seasons later, commended the owners for investing in training facilities and infrastructure, calling Leeds an extraordinary club.<br />
<br />
"Leeds have made a significant contribution economically to provide the tools for a manager to prepare to be the ideal ones," said Bielsa, who guided the side to a ninth-placed finish last season.<br />
<br />
Bielsa confirmed that defender Diego Llorente will miss the opening two weeks of the season, while midfielder Kalvin Phillips, who arrived late for pre-season following his involvement with England at Euro 2020, could be in line for selection at Old Trafford on Saturday.<br />
<br />
"I`m satisfied with the group I`m working with... I couldn`t tell you about hypothetical situations but what I can tell you is the group of players I have I`m happy with," he added.</p>


Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa`s contract situation has been "resolved", the Argentine said on Thursday, ahead of his side`s Premier League opener against Manchester United over the weekend.

Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa`s contract situation has been "resolved", the Argentine said on Thursday, ahead of his side`s Premier League opener against Manchester United over the weekend. Bielsa did not specify if he had signed a new deal but indicated that he would be at Elland Road for at least another season. "The contract situation is one that is already resolved... one year is habitual," Bielsa told reporters. The 66-year-old, who took charge of Leeds in 2018 and led them to promotion to the Premier League two seasons later, commended the owners for investing in training facilities and infrastructure, calling Leeds an extraordinary club. "Leeds have made a significant contribution economically to provide the tools for a manager to prepare to be the ideal ones," said Bielsa, who guided the side to a ninth-placed finish last season. Bielsa confirmed that defender Diego Llorente will miss the opening two weeks of the season, while midfielder Kalvin Phillips, who arrived late for pre-season following his involvement with England at Euro 2020, could be in line for selection at Old Trafford on Saturday. "I`m satisfied with the group I`m working with... I couldn`t tell you about hypothetical situations but what I can tell you is the group of players I have I`m happy with," he added.

Football - Contract situation 'resolved', says Leeds boss Bielsa

<p>Arsenal are trying to adapt to the demands of the "most difficult transfer market" as the north London club aims to strengthen the squad ahead of the new Premier League season, manager Mikel Arteta said on Thursday.</p>

<p>Arsenal, who finished eighth last season and failed to qualify for European&nbsp;football, have signed centre back Ben White from Brighton &amp; Hove Albion, left back Nuno Tavares from Benfica, and midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga from Anderlecht in the summer transfer window.</p>

<p>British media have also linked the club with a host of other players, including Leicester City attacking midfielder James Maddison and Sheffield United goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-goalkeeper-arrizabalaga-kepa-the-hero-as-chelsea-win-super-cup-6-5-on-penalties-404792" hreflang="en">Football: Goalkeeper Arrizabalaga Kepa the hero as Chelsea win Super Cup 6-5 on penalties</a></p>

<p>"We are talking about the most difficult transfer market over the last years for sure and we are trying to adapt," Arteta said ahead of Friday's Premier League season-opener at newly-promoted Brentford.</p>

<p>"The club, the owners, and myself all have the same interest which is to make this team much stronger and we know we still have things to do to get what we want.</p>

<p>"Things take time. There are all the time different parties involved to get deals done but we are trying."</p>

<p>Arteta said the Arsenal are keen to build a "healthy" squad and will strive for stability, which the Spaniard said they lacked last season.</p>

<p>"We have ownership willing to invest in the team and get the team better with big names," Arteta added. "We are trying to be careful and find the balance because we need to be in a good financial situation."</p>

<p>Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey, striker Eddie Nketiah (both right ankle) and centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes (right knee) will miss Friday's game due to injuries.</p>

<p>Partey is expected to return by the end of this month, while Nketiah and Magalhaes will be out until early September, the club said https://www.arsenal.com/news/team-news-latest-partey-gabriel-eddie.</p>


Arsenal are trying to adapt to the demands of the "most difficult transfer market" as the north London club aims to strengthen the squad ahead of the new Premier League season, manager Mikel Arteta said on Thursday.

Arsenal are trying to adapt to the demands of the "most difficult transfer market" as the north London club aims to strengthen the squad ahead of the new Premier League season, manager Mikel Arteta said on Thursday. Arsenal, who finished eighth last season and failed to qualify for European football, have signed centre back Ben White from Brighton & Hove Albion, left back Nuno Tavares from Benfica, and midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga from Anderlecht in the summer transfer window. British media have also linked the club with a host of other players, including Leicester City attacking midfielder James Maddison and Sheffield United goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale. ALSO READ: Football: Goalkeeper Arrizabalaga Kepa the hero as Chelsea win Super Cup 6-5 on penalties "We are talking about the most difficult transfer market over the last years for sure and we are trying to adapt," Arteta said ahead of Friday's Premier League season-opener at newly-promoted Brentford. "The club, the owners, and myself all have the same interest which is to make this team much stronger and we know we still have things to do to get what we want. "Things take time. There are all the time different parties involved to get deals done but we are trying." Arteta said the Arsenal are keen to build a "healthy" squad and will strive for stability, which the Spaniard said they lacked last season. "We have ownership willing to invest in the team and get the team better with big names," Arteta added. "We are trying to be careful and find the balance because we need to be in a good financial situation." Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey, striker Eddie Nketiah (both right ankle) and centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes (right knee) will miss Friday's game due to injuries. Partey is expected to return by the end of this month, while Nketiah and Magalhaes will be out until early September, the club said https://www.arsenal.com/news/team-news-latest-partey-gabriel-eddie.

Football: Arsenal adapting to 'most difficult' transfer window, says Mikel Arteta

India Independence - From Olympics to Cricket: When 'free India' shined in the world of Sports

<p>For quite a long time they were rivals, however presently Sergio Ramos and Lionel Messi are teammates at Paris Saint-Germain, with the former Real Madrid defender inviting the ex-Barcelona player to the French capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two men were captain of their clubs, and both have finished the late spring paperwork done for PSG on free exchanges given they couldn't resolve their particular agreement issues with Real Madrid and Barcelona.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Lionel Messi's signing being made official on Wednesday, Sergio Ramos took to social media to invite the Argentine to PSG&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Who would have thought it, right Leo?" Sergio Ramos posted on Twitter with a picture of their PSG jerseys. Where curiously, Sergio Ramos' is white, and Lionel Messi's jersey is blue.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="es">¿Quién nos lo iba a decir, verdad <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LeoMessi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LeoMessi</a>?<br />
¡Bienvenido! / Welcome! / Bienvenue !<a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_espanol?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PSG_espanol</a> <a href="https://t.co/vHcpBY6z08">pic.twitter.com/vHcpBY6z08</a></p>
— Sergio Ramos (@SergioRamos) <a href="https://twitter.com/SergioRamos/status/1425516699172933635?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Lionel Messi's transition to PSG was made official after the six-time Ballon d'Or champ was joined by club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi in a press conference. Lionel Messi was given the number 30 jersey which he last wore during his first season with Barcelona.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Barcelona's misfortune was PSG's benefit. The Parisians have at long last rejoined Lionel Messi with his companion Neymar Jr. What's more, the pair, alongside Kylian Mbappé will make PSG's frontline the most threatening front three.</p>


For quite a long time they were rivals, however presently Sergio Ramos and Lionel Messi are teammates at Paris Saint-Germain, with the former Real Madrid defender inviting the ex-Barcelona player to the French capital.

For quite a long time they were rivals, however presently Sergio Ramos and Lionel Messi are teammates at Paris Saint-Germain, with the former Real Madrid defender inviting the ex-Barcelona player to the French capital. The two men were captain of their clubs, and both have finished the late spring paperwork done for PSG on free exchanges given they couldn't resolve their particular agreement issues with Real Madrid and Barcelona. With Lionel Messi's signing being made official on Wednesday, Sergio Ramos took to social media to invite the Argentine to PSG "Who would have thought it, right Leo?" Sergio Ramos posted on Twitter with a picture of their PSG jerseys. Where curiously, Sergio Ramos' is white, and Lionel Messi's jersey is blue. ¿Quién nos lo iba a decir, verdad #LeoMessi? ¡Bienvenido! / Welcome! / Bienvenue !@PSG_espanol pic.twitter.com/vHcpBY6z08 — Sergio Ramos (@SergioRamos) August 11, 2021 × Lionel Messi's transition to PSG was made official after the six-time Ballon d'Or champ was joined by club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi in a press conference. Lionel Messi was given the number 30 jersey which he last wore during his first season with Barcelona. Barcelona's misfortune was PSG's benefit. The Parisians have at long last rejoined Lionel Messi with his companion Neymar Jr. What's more, the pair, alongside Kylian Mbappé will make PSG's frontline the most threatening front three.

Football: 'Who would have thought,' Sergio Ramos welcomes Lionel Messi to Paris Saint-Germain

<p>After making two transformative signings in Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane, Manchester United have no excuse for not giving champions Manchester City a proper run for their money in the Premier League title race.</p>

<p>United finally landed England winger Sancho for 73 million pounds ($101 million) in July before making another eye-catching move by signing serial winning defender Raphael Varane from Real Madrid.</p>

<p>Varane should bring much-needed pace and control to a defence that has relied too much on Harry Maguire in the last two seasons while Sancho can light up a powerful attack and share the team's creative responsibility with Bruno Fernandes.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-chelseas-manager-thomas-tuchel-takes-responsibility-for-tammy-abrahams-lack-of-game-time-404588" hreflang="en">Football: Chelsea's manager Thomas Tuchel takes responsibility for Tammy Abraham's lack of game time</a></p>

<p>United made another big investment this summer in handing Ole Gunnar Solskjaer a three-year contract and the much-loved former striker must now turn the 20-times English champions back into the force they were before Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.</p>

<p>Champions City, once dismissed by Ferguson as "noisy neighbours", are undoubtedly the biggest force in Manchester now and are clear favourites to retain their crown after adding Jack Grealish to their squad for a league-record 100 million pounds.</p>

<p>Yet Solskjaer has been given more time and money than any of Ferguson's successors and if he cannot sustain a serious title charge, he will face renewed questions about his suitability to coach England's biggest and most successful club.</p>

<p>"Last season was more than acceptable in terms of on the journey but this year they’ve got to get nearer," said former United captain and Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville, who called Varane "the last piece in the jigsaw".</p>

<p>"They’ve got to get close to challenging for the title and that’s going to be really tough."</p>

<p>United, however, will not just face competition from City.</p>

<h2>CHELSEA THREAT</h2>

<p>Chelsea will pose a serious threat in their first full season under Thomas Tuchel, who transformed a team short on ideas under Frank Lampard into Champions League winners in only four months in charge.</p>

<p>The German proved a wily tactician and turned a team with a soft centre into an ultra-competitive side who conceded only two goals in their first 14 games in all competitions.</p>

<p>He has also solved the problem of striking firepower by signing Belgium's Romelu Lukaku, who scored 64 goals in all competitions in two season with Inter Milan, for 97.5 million pounds.</p>

<p>Liverpool should also be a force to be reckoned with again after last season's limp title defence.</p>

<p>They have their defensive leader Virgil van Dijk back as well as Joe Gomez and the Merseysiders will hope for better luck with injuries in this campaign.</p>

<p>Juergen Klopp has further boosted his team's backline with French centre back Ibrahima Konate in a bid to improve on the 42 goals they shipped last season, their worst defensive record in four years.</p>

<p>Leicester City, meanwhile, will make a third bid to gatecrash the top four after agonisingly missing out on a Champions League berth in the last two seasons while north London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham will also be desperate to return to Europe's elite competition.</p>


After making two transformative signings in Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane, Manchester United have no excuse for not giving champions Manchester City a proper run for their money in the Premier League title race.

After making two transformative signings in Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane, Manchester United have no excuse for not giving champions Manchester City a proper run for their money in the Premier League title race. United finally landed England winger Sancho for 73 million pounds ($101 million) in July before making another eye-catching move by signing serial winning defender Raphael Varane from Real Madrid. Varane should bring much-needed pace and control to a defence that has relied too much on Harry Maguire in the last two seasons while Sancho can light up a powerful attack and share the team's creative responsibility with Bruno Fernandes. ALSO READ: Football: Chelsea's manager Thomas Tuchel takes responsibility for Tammy Abraham's lack of game time United made another big investment this summer in handing Ole Gunnar Solskjaer a three-year contract and the much-loved former striker must now turn the 20-times English champions back into the force they were before Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. Champions City, once dismissed by Ferguson as "noisy neighbours", are undoubtedly the biggest force in Manchester now and are clear favourites to retain their crown after adding Jack Grealish to their squad for a league-record 100 million pounds. Yet Solskjaer has been given more time and money than any of Ferguson's successors and if he cannot sustain a serious title charge, he will face renewed questions about his suitability to coach England's biggest and most successful club. "Last season was more than acceptable in terms of on the journey but this year they’ve got to get nearer," said former United captain and Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville, who called Varane "the last piece in the jigsaw". "They’ve got to get close to challenging for the title and that’s going to be really tough." United, however, will not just face competition from City. CHELSEA THREAT Chelsea will pose a serious threat in their first full season under Thomas Tuchel, who transformed a team short on ideas under Frank Lampard into Champions League winners in only four months in charge. The German proved a wily tactician and turned a team with a soft centre into an ultra-competitive side who conceded only two goals in their first 14 games in all competitions. He has also solved the problem of striking firepower by signing Belgium's Romelu Lukaku, who scored 64 goals in all competitions in two season with Inter Milan, for 97.5 million pounds. Liverpool should also be a force to be reckoned with again after last season's limp title defence. They have their defensive leader Virgil van Dijk back as well as Joe Gomez and the Merseysiders will hope for better luck with injuries in this campaign. Juergen Klopp has further boosted his team's backline with French centre back Ibrahima Konate in a bid to improve on the 42 goals they shipped last season, their worst defensive record in four years. Leicester City, meanwhile, will make a third bid to gatecrash the top four after agonisingly missing out on a Champions League berth in the last two seasons while north London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham will also be desperate to return to Europe's elite competition.

Football: No more excuses - big-spending Manchester United must push Manchester City all the way

<p>Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden will be out of action for three to four weeks more, ruling him out of the start of the Premier League season, he said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The 21-year-old England international missed last month's European Championship final defeat by Italy on penalties and has been absent from City's pre-season training.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-christian-eriksen-sends-message-of-support-to-girl-ahead-of-heart-operation-404591" hreflang="en">Football: Christian Eriksen sends message of support to girl ahead of heart operation</a></p>

<p>"It (the foot) is still a little bit sore, it's such a shame to do it just before the Euro final, it was really unfortunate but I'm working hard in the gym," Foden told Sky Sports. "Hopefully, I can get back as soon as possible.</p>

<p>"I'd say around three to four weeks more. Hopefully, it flies by and I can just get back out on the pitch."</p>

<p>Champions City kick-off the season at Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday and Foden also looks likely to miss the games at promoted Norwich City and Arsenal.</p>

<p>England have World Cup qualifiers against Hungary, Andorra, and Poland in early September.</p>

<p>City's first league match after the international break is at Leicester City, who beat them in the Community Shield, on Sept. 11.</p>


Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden will be out of action for three to four weeks more, ruling him out of the start of the Premier League season, he said on Wednesday.

Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden will be out of action for three to four weeks more, ruling him out of the start of the Premier League season, he said on Wednesday. The 21-year-old England international missed last month's European Championship final defeat by Italy on penalties and has been absent from City's pre-season training. ALSO READ: Football: Christian Eriksen sends message of support to girl ahead of heart operation "It (the foot) is still a little bit sore, it's such a shame to do it just before the Euro final, it was really unfortunate but I'm working hard in the gym," Foden told Sky Sports. "Hopefully, I can get back as soon as possible. "I'd say around three to four weeks more. Hopefully, it flies by and I can just get back out on the pitch." Champions City kick-off the season at Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday and Foden also looks likely to miss the games at promoted Norwich City and Arsenal. England have World Cup qualifiers against Hungary, Andorra, and Poland in early September. City's first league match after the international break is at Leicester City, who beat them in the Community Shield, on Sept. 11.

Football: Manchester City's Phil Foden ruled out for three to four weeks more

<p>Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel said he understood striker Tammy Abraham's frustration over his lack of playing time last season and took some responsibility for it, as speculation grows over the England international's future at the Premier League club.</p>

<p>British media have linked Abraham with a move to Serie A club AS Roma, who are managed by former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho.</p>

<p>The 23-year-old ended last season as Chelsea's joint-top scorer with 12 goals in all competitions but found himself marginalized at the London club since Tuchel replaced Frank Lampard as the manager in January.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-jack-grealish-says-he-cried-like-lionel-messi-over-leaving-aston-villa-404390" hreflang="en">Football: Jack Grealish says he cried like Lionel Messi over leaving Aston Villa</a></p>

<p>Chelsea have also been reported to welcome back Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku from Inter Milan, a move which would further cut short Abraham's opportunities.</p>

<p>"I will not comment on the actual situations - how far this is and if it's true and not true," Tuchel said before Wednesday's Super Cup match against Villarreal. "Tammy is right now in the squad.</p>

<p>"He was clearly not happy with the last half a year and maybe he has reason also not to be happy. Maybe it was also my fault not to push him, not to trust him on the same level I maybe trusted other players.</p>

<p>"I can absolutely understand that he wants more minutes. So the decision will be 'how do we plan, what are Tammy's plans, does he fight his way back into the team from the position where he ended last season, or does he want to change the club to have the chance of being a regular starter?'"</p>

<p>Tuchel was tight-lipped over the imminent signing of Lukaku, who is reported to return to Chelsea after seven years in a club-record 115 million euro ($134.79 million) deal.</p>


Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel said he understood striker Tammy Abraham's frustration over his lack of playing time last season and took some responsibility for it, as speculation grows over the England international's future at the Premier League club.

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel said he understood striker Tammy Abraham's frustration over his lack of playing time last season and took some responsibility for it, as speculation grows over the England international's future at the Premier League club. British media have linked Abraham with a move to Serie A club AS Roma, who are managed by former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho. The 23-year-old ended last season as Chelsea's joint-top scorer with 12 goals in all competitions but found himself marginalized at the London club since Tuchel replaced Frank Lampard as the manager in January. ALSO READ: Football: Jack Grealish says he cried like Lionel Messi over leaving Aston Villa Chelsea have also been reported to welcome back Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku from Inter Milan, a move which would further cut short Abraham's opportunities. "I will not comment on the actual situations - how far this is and if it's true and not true," Tuchel said before Wednesday's Super Cup match against Villarreal. "Tammy is right now in the squad. "He was clearly not happy with the last half a year and maybe he has reason also not to be happy. Maybe it was also my fault not to push him, not to trust him on the same level I maybe trusted other players. "I can absolutely understand that he wants more minutes. So the decision will be 'how do we plan, what are Tammy's plans, does he fight his way back into the team from the position where he ended last season, or does he want to change the club to have the chance of being a regular starter?'" Tuchel was tight-lipped over the imminent signing of Lukaku, who is reported to return to Chelsea after seven years in a club-record 115 million euro ($134.79 million) deal.

Football: Chelsea's manager Thomas Tuchel takes responsibility for Tammy Abraham's lack of game time

<p>Denmark midfielder Christian Eriksen has recorded a touching video to reassure a nine-year-old girl who is due to undergo the same operation he had after collapsing while playing at Euro 2020.</p>

<p>The Inter Milan player suffered a cardiac arrest during his country’s opening game of the tournament, against Finland, and received life-saving treatment on the pitch.</p>

<p>He later had an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) device implanted, a type of pacemaker which can prevent fatal cardiac arrests by discharging a jolt to restore a regular heart rhythm.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-liverpool-defender-andy-robertson-out-with-ligament-damage-404388" hreflang="en">Football: Liverpool defender Andy Robertson out with ligament damage</a></p>

<p>The 29-year-old received a letter from Evie before she was due to have an ICD fitted at Great Ormond Street hospital in London, and his response was shared by her mother Nicci Martin on Facebook after a campaign through the platform to reach Eriksen for support after hearing about his operation.</p>

<p>“Thanks for the lovely letter, I just read it through tonight,” Eriksen said in the video message.</p>

<p>“I hope you are feeling comfortable and confident going into the operation. It is never fun to be in a hospital, but I am sure the doctors know what they are doing, and they will help you and tell you what they know and think.</p>

<p>“I am sure you will get back to normal life very quickly afterward, I know I did. I am sure it will be the same with you."</p>

<p>Martin said on Facebook her daughter, who "has a huge phobia of needles, cannulas, and blood", was a fan of Eriksen's former club Tottenham Hotspur and was a keen soccer player herself. She said no date had yet been set for the operation after a postponement.</p>

<p>Eriksen returned to the Inter training ground for the first time since his collapse last week, when a club statement said he was "in excellent physical and mental shape".</p>

<p>His playing career remains unclear, though, as he will not be allowed to play in Italy unless the ICD device is removed.</p>


Denmark midfielder Christian Eriksen has recorded a touching video to reassure a nine-year-old girl who is due to undergo the same operation he had after collapsing while playing at Euro 2020.

Denmark midfielder Christian Eriksen has recorded a touching video to reassure a nine-year-old girl who is due to undergo the same operation he had after collapsing while playing at Euro 2020. The Inter Milan player suffered a cardiac arrest during his country’s opening game of the tournament, against Finland, and received life-saving treatment on the pitch. He later had an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) device implanted, a type of pacemaker which can prevent fatal cardiac arrests by discharging a jolt to restore a regular heart rhythm. ALSO READ: Football: Liverpool defender Andy Robertson out with ligament damage The 29-year-old received a letter from Evie before she was due to have an ICD fitted at Great Ormond Street hospital in London, and his response was shared by her mother Nicci Martin on Facebook after a campaign through the platform to reach Eriksen for support after hearing about his operation. “Thanks for the lovely letter, I just read it through tonight,” Eriksen said in the video message. “I hope you are feeling comfortable and confident going into the operation. It is never fun to be in a hospital, but I am sure the doctors know what they are doing, and they will help you and tell you what they know and think. “I am sure you will get back to normal life very quickly afterward, I know I did. I am sure it will be the same with you." Martin said on Facebook her daughter, who "has a huge phobia of needles, cannulas, and blood", was a fan of Eriksen's former club Tottenham Hotspur and was a keen soccer player herself. She said no date had yet been set for the operation after a postponement. Eriksen returned to the Inter training ground for the first time since his collapse last week, when a club statement said he was "in excellent physical and mental shape". His playing career remains unclear, though, as he will not be allowed to play in Italy unless the ICD device is removed.

Football: Christian Eriksen sends message of support to girl ahead of heart operation

Lionel Messi leaves Barcelona: A record breaking career in pictures

Football: Only one Lionel Messi? Turns out, there's quite a few

<p>Manchester City centre back John Stones has signed a new five-year contract with the club, the Premier League side announced on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The 27-year-old made 22 league appearances last season as City won the title. He was also part of the England team that finished runners-up to Italy in the European Championship.</p>

<p>Stones' contract with the club was due to expire next summer, but he will now remain at the Etihad Stadium until 2026.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-jack-grealish-says-he-cried-like-lionel-messi-over-leaving-aston-villa-404390" hreflang="en">Football: Jack Grealish says he cried like Lionel Messi over leaving Aston Villa</a></p>

<p>The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.</p>

<p>"I love being part of this squad. There are so many quality players here and I know we can continue winning trophies, which is my main focus," Stones told the club's website.</p>

<p>"The success we've had in the last four years has been incredible. To be a part of it has been a dream come true and I just want to continue winning."</p>

<p>Stones has made 168 appearances for City and won three Premier League titles, one FA Cup and two League Cups since joining from Everton in 2016.</p>

<p>He was an integral part of manager Pep Guardiola's squad last season as they reclaimed the league title, forming a strong partnership with Ruben Dias in the heart of the defence.</p>

<p>City will begin their title defence with a trip to Tottenham Hotspur on Aug. 15.</p>


Manchester City centre back John Stones has signed a new five-year contract with the club, the Premier League side announced on Tuesday. The 27-year-old made 22 league appearances last season as City won the title.

Manchester City centre back John Stones has signed a new five-year contract with the club, the Premier League side announced on Tuesday. The 27-year-old made 22 league appearances last season as City won the title. He was also part of the England team that finished runners-up to Italy in the European Championship. Stones' contract with the club was due to expire next summer, but he will now remain at the Etihad Stadium until 2026. ALSO READ: Football: Jack Grealish says he cried like Lionel Messi over leaving Aston Villa The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. "I love being part of this squad. There are so many quality players here and I know we can continue winning trophies, which is my main focus," Stones told the club's website. "The success we've had in the last four years has been incredible. To be a part of it has been a dream come true and I just want to continue winning." Stones has made 168 appearances for City and won three Premier League titles, one FA Cup and two League Cups since joining from Everton in 2016. He was an integral part of manager Pep Guardiola's squad last season as they reclaimed the league title, forming a strong partnership with Ruben Dias in the heart of the defence. City will begin their title defence with a trip to Tottenham Hotspur on Aug. 15.

Football: Manchester City defender John Stones pens new deal until 2026

<p>Fans attending Premier League games are set to face random spot checks of their COVID-19 status at some stadiums in the opening weeks of the new season.</p>

<p>Ticket holders should be prepared to provide proof of full vaccination or a negative lateral flow test result within 48 hours before the game via the NHS COVID Pass, the English Premier League said in a statement.</p>

<p>It added it was working to introduce checks in "a staged way so there is the least disruption and maximum safety possible".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-we-lost-the-best-player-of-all-time-gerard-pique-on-lionel-messis-exit-from-fc-barcelona-404182" hreflang="en">Football: 'We lost&nbsp;the best player of all time,' Gerard Pique on Lionel Messi's exit from FC Barcelona</a></p>

<p>Supporters must also adhere to a new code of conduct, the league said, which includes wearing masks indoors, avoiding close contact with people they do not know and following one-way signage around stadiums.</p>

<p>"Even though the nation is reopening, the government has made it clear that this pandemic is still far from over. It is possible the safety measures for matches could be subject to change at short notice," the statement added.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Boris Johnson lifted COVID-19 restrictions in England on July 19. Britain's COVID-19 cases increased by 5% over the past week, with the country reporting 25,161 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday.</p>

<p>The 2021-22 season kicks off on Friday with newly-promoted Brentford hosting Arsenal.</p>


Fans attending Premier League games are set to face random spot checks of their COVID-19 status at some stadiums in the opening weeks of the new season. Ticket holders should be prepared to provide proof of full vaccination or a negative lateral flow test result within 48 hours before the game via the NHS COVID Pass, the English Premier League said in a statement.

Fans attending Premier League games are set to face random spot checks of their COVID-19 status at some stadiums in the opening weeks of the new season. Ticket holders should be prepared to provide proof of full vaccination or a negative lateral flow test result within 48 hours before the game via the NHS COVID Pass, the English Premier League said in a statement. It added it was working to introduce checks in "a staged way so there is the least disruption and maximum safety possible". ALSO READ: Football: 'We lost the best player of all time,' Gerard Pique on Lionel Messi's exit from FC Barcelona Supporters must also adhere to a new code of conduct, the league said, which includes wearing masks indoors, avoiding close contact with people they do not know and following one-way signage around stadiums. "Even though the nation is reopening, the government has made it clear that this pandemic is still far from over. It is possible the safety measures for matches could be subject to change at short notice," the statement added. Prime Minister Boris Johnson lifted COVID-19 restrictions in England on July 19. Britain's COVID-19 cases increased by 5% over the past week, with the country reporting 25,161 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday. The 2021-22 season kicks off on Friday with newly-promoted Brentford hosting Arsenal.

Football: Premier League to introduce random COVID-19 status checks for ticket holders

<p>Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson said on Monday he had sustained ligament damage in Sunday's 1-1 friendly draw with Athletic Bilbao.</p>

<p>The injury will rule the Scotland international out of Liverpool's Premier League season-opener at newly-promoted Norwich City on Saturday.</p>

<p>"Scan suggests nothing too major but there’s some ligament damage which will need to mend. I will be grafting every day so I can help the team again sooner rather than later," he said on Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thanks to everyone for the kind messages and support. Scan suggests nothing too major but there’s some ligament damage which will need to mend. I will be grafting every day so I can help the team again sooner rather than later. Good luck to the boys playing tonight <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YNWA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YNWA</a> <a href="https://t.co/urKPCLmHgS">pic.twitter.com/urKPCLmHgS</a></p>
— Andy Robertson (@andrewrobertso5) <a href="https://twitter.com/andrewrobertso5/status/1424793683963043852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Andy Robertson limped off at the end of the first half of the match at Anfield as he attempted to block a cross.</p>

<p>Liverpool wrapped up their pre-season friendlies with a 3-1 win against Osasuna on Monday.</p>

<p>Jordan Henderson and Thiago Alcantara both made their first pre-season appearances for Liverpool in Monday's match at Anfield.</p>


Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson said on Monday he had sustained ligament damage in Sunday's 1-1 friendly draw with Athletic Bilbao. The injury will rule the Scotland international out of Liverpool's Premier League season-opener at newly-promoted Norwich City on Saturday.

Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson said on Monday he had sustained ligament damage in Sunday's 1-1 friendly draw with Athletic Bilbao. The injury will rule the Scotland international out of Liverpool's Premier League season-opener at newly-promoted Norwich City on Saturday. "Scan suggests nothing too major but there’s some ligament damage which will need to mend. I will be grafting every day so I can help the team again sooner rather than later," he said on Twitter. Thanks to everyone for the kind messages and support. Scan suggests nothing too major but there’s some ligament damage which will need to mend. I will be grafting every day so I can help the team again sooner rather than later. Good luck to the boys playing tonight #YNWA pic.twitter.com/urKPCLmHgS — Andy Robertson (@andrewrobertso5) August 9, 2021 × Andy Robertson limped off at the end of the first half of the match at Anfield as he attempted to block a cross. Liverpool wrapped up their pre-season friendlies with a 3-1 win against Osasuna on Monday. Jordan Henderson and Thiago Alcantara both made their first pre-season appearances for Liverpool in Monday's match at Anfield.

Football: Liverpool defender Andy Robertson out with ligament damage

<p>Jack Grealish said leaving Aston Villa to join Manchester City carried him to tears and caused him to feel exactly the same way as Lionel Messi did about departing &nbsp;Barcelona.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 25-year-old midfielder joined Manchester City last week for £100m in the greatest monetary deal in English football history, leaving the club where he had spent his whole profession.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-us-forward-josh-sargent-joins-norwich-from-werder-bremen-404347" hreflang="en">Football: US forward Josh Sargent joins Norwich from Werder Bremen</a></p>

<p>"It was so tough. I think everyone knows that," said Jack Grealish to a media outlet.</p>

<p>"I reported back for the pre-season as I was meant to. That's when the manager wanted me back so I obviously went back for a few days. It was obviously difficult because in the back of my head, I knew that I might be going."</p>

<p>"Everyone's seen the way Messi was at his final press conference and that is the exact way I felt myself.</p>

<p>"Before I left, at the hotel, I spoke to the team, the staff, and the players and I teared up a little bit myself."</p>

<p>Jack Grealish joined Manchester City on a six-year deal after the Premier League champions actuated the £100m provision in his Villa contract.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The exchange expense broke the past record in English football held by Paul Pogba when he rejoined Manchester United for £93.25m from Juventus in 2016.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-more-problems-for-barcelona-as-sergio-aguero-ruled-out-for-10-weeks-404265" hreflang="en">Football: More problems for Barcelona as Sergio Aguero ruled out for 10 weeks</a></p>

<p>Jack Grealish, who was skipper at Aston Villa and left the club having scored 32 goals in 213 appearances, made his first appearance for Manchester City in Saturday's Community Shield loss to Leicester at Wembley.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dissimilar to at Aston Villa, Grealish will confront extraordinary contest for a beginning spot at Manchester City, however, he is sure he can give various characteristics to any semblance of Raheem Sterling, Riyad Mahrez, and Phil Foden</p>


Jack Grealish said leaving Aston Villa to join Manchester City carried him to tears and caused him to feel exactly the same way as Lionel Messi did about departing Barcelona.

Jack Grealish said leaving Aston Villa to join Manchester City carried him to tears and caused him to feel exactly the same way as Lionel Messi did about departing Barcelona. The 25-year-old midfielder joined Manchester City last week for £100m in the greatest monetary deal in English football history, leaving the club where he had spent his whole profession. ALSO READ: Football: US forward Josh Sargent joins Norwich from Werder Bremen "It was so tough. I think everyone knows that," said Jack Grealish to a media outlet. "I reported back for the pre-season as I was meant to. That's when the manager wanted me back so I obviously went back for a few days. It was obviously difficult because in the back of my head, I knew that I might be going." "Everyone's seen the way Messi was at his final press conference and that is the exact way I felt myself. "Before I left, at the hotel, I spoke to the team, the staff, and the players and I teared up a little bit myself." Jack Grealish joined Manchester City on a six-year deal after the Premier League champions actuated the £100m provision in his Villa contract. The exchange expense broke the past record in English football held by Paul Pogba when he rejoined Manchester United for £93.25m from Juventus in 2016. ALSO READ: Football: More problems for Barcelona as Sergio Aguero ruled out for 10 weeks Jack Grealish, who was skipper at Aston Villa and left the club having scored 32 goals in 213 appearances, made his first appearance for Manchester City in Saturday's Community Shield loss to Leicester at Wembley. Dissimilar to at Aston Villa, Grealish will confront extraordinary contest for a beginning spot at Manchester City, however, he is sure he can give various characteristics to any semblance of Raheem Sterling, Riyad Mahrez, and Phil Foden

Football: Jack Grealish says he cried like Lionel Messi over leaving Aston Villa

<p>Following Barcelona's success over Juventus in the Gamper Trophy, manager Ronald Koeman said that the team needs to move on after Lionel Messi's departure from the club.</p>

<p>Following Barcelona's persuading 3-0 win over Juventus in the Joan Gamper Trophy, Koeman said there was no ideal opportunity to harp on the deficiency of Lionel Messi. He showed that the team needs to work much harder to adapt without their charm.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="Football: Liverpool's Andy Robertson twists ankle in Bilbao friendly">Football: Liverpool's Andy Robertson twists ankle in Bilbao friendly</a></p>

<p>"It's normal that when a player like Messi leaves, it's hard for everyone, but we have to move on because we can't change the situation. We have to play well, win and work even harder," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There are other players who can play in his position and play an important role in the team. We don't have Leo now, though. We have to move on and look forward," he added.</p>

<p>Lionel Messi has left Barcelona after 21 years. The six-time Ballon d'Or champ is currently on the cusp of joining PSG and re-joining companion Neymar Jr.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Barcelona, then again, will be taking a gander at any semblance of Sergio Agüero, Ansu Fati, and Antoine Griezmann to move forward without Lionel Messi. Barcelona's manager is attempting to stay idealistic for the new season notwithstanding losing Lionel Messi this mid-year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-brazils-olympic-committee-vows-action-in-sponsor-spat-404106" hreflang="en">Football: Brazil's Olympic Committee vows action in sponsor spat</a></p>

<p>"We've signed Memphis Depay, who has shown today that he can be really effective. The midfielders need to score more and the squad needs to improve. The best player in the world will always be missed, but you have to accept it and get to work," he said.</p>

<p>The exit of Lionel Messi may have harmed Barcelona's odds for next season. Although, his departure could be a surprisingly beneficial turn of events for certain players in Barcelona.</p>


Following Barcelona's success over Juventus in the Gamper Trophy, manager Ronald Koeman said that the team needs to move on after Lionel Messi's departure from the club.

Following Barcelona's success over Juventus in the Gamper Trophy, manager Ronald Koeman said that the team needs to move on after Lionel Messi's departure from the club. Following Barcelona's persuading 3-0 win over Juventus in the Joan Gamper Trophy, Koeman said there was no ideal opportunity to harp on the deficiency of Lionel Messi. He showed that the team needs to work much harder to adapt without their charm. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ronald Koeman (@ronaldkoeman) × ALSO READ: Football: Liverpool's Andy Robertson twists ankle in Bilbao friendly "It's normal that when a player like Messi leaves, it's hard for everyone, but we have to move on because we can't change the situation. We have to play well, win and work even harder," he said. "There are other players who can play in his position and play an important role in the team. We don't have Leo now, though. We have to move on and look forward," he added. Lionel Messi has left Barcelona after 21 years. The six-time Ballon d'Or champ is currently on the cusp of joining PSG and re-joining companion Neymar Jr. Barcelona, then again, will be taking a gander at any semblance of Sergio Agüero, Ansu Fati, and Antoine Griezmann to move forward without Lionel Messi. Barcelona's manager is attempting to stay idealistic for the new season notwithstanding losing Lionel Messi this mid-year. ALSO READ: Football: Brazil's Olympic Committee vows action in sponsor spat "We've signed Memphis Depay, who has shown today that he can be really effective. The midfielders need to score more and the squad needs to improve. The best player in the world will always be missed, but you have to accept it and get to work," he said. The exit of Lionel Messi may have harmed Barcelona's odds for next season. Although, his departure could be a surprisingly beneficial turn of events for certain players in Barcelona.

Football: 'It is hard for everyone, but we have to move on,' Ronald Koeman on Lionel Messi's departure

<p>Argentinian football ace Lionel Messi has opened up on his shocking exit from Barcelona and stated that a move for Paris club PSG is a "possibility". Messi was in tears at the beginning of Sunday's press conference, during which he was energetically applauded by teammates and reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He started by confirming that he is leaving Barcelona, where he spent his entire professional career.</p>

<p>Lionel Messi turned into a free agent upon the termination of his last agreement at Barcelona&nbsp;in June, and the club affirmed on Friday that they have not been able to secure him to another arrangement because of monetary and structural deterrents.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-i-am-not-ready-tearful-lionel-messi-breaks-down-while-bidding-barcelona-good-bye-watch-403985" hreflang="en">Football: 'I am not ready': 'Tearful' Lionel Messi breaks down while bidding Barcelona good bye - WATCH</a></p>

<p>The Blaugrana couldn't re-sign the 34-year-old without surpassing La Liga's compensation limit, which means the six-time Ballon d'Or victor will currently be compelled to track down another club, and he concedes that the entire circumstance has come as an extraordinary shock to him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I gave everything for this club from the first day I arrived to the last. I never imagined having to say goodbye as I didn't think about it. What's clear is I did everything possible, and they couldn't do it because of La Liga.</p>

<p>"A lot of things have been said about me, but on my behalf, we did everything I could because I wanted to stay. Last year I didn't want to stay and I said it. This year I did and I couldn't.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-2020-tokyo-games-in-the-shadow-of-the-pandemic-403963" hreflang="en">Olympics 2020: Tokyo Games in the shadow of the pandemic</a></p>

<p>The Argentine was likewise inquired as to whether reports of Paris Saint-Germain being his most probable next objective are valid, to which he reacted: “Paris Saint-Germain is a possibility, yes. At the moment nothing is confirmed, I received a lot of calls after the Barcelona statement. We’re talking about it."</p>

<p>“The picture with Paris Saint-Germain was a coincidence, completely. I met them in Ibiza, we got together one day, we are friends. He called me and said I'm in Ibiza, we'll get together and there was a joke at the time, come to Paris. But it was a joke,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Cash-rich Paris Saint-Germain is one of the few clubs able to afford the Barcelona legend. A move to Paris would reunite him with his close friend Neymar Jr. with whom he played at&nbsp;Barcelona.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 34-year-old, who has been at the club for 21 years, becoming its all-time goalscorer with 682, broke down in tears before giving a speech and was greeted by a lengthy standing ovation from the media, current and former team mates and coaches in attendance.</p>


Argentinian football ace Lionel Messi has opened up on his shocking exit from Barcelona and stated that a move for Paris club PSG is a "possibility". Messi was in tears at the beginning of Sunday's press conference, during which he was energetically applauded by teammates and reporters.

Argentinian football ace Lionel Messi has opened up on his shocking exit from Barcelona and stated that a move for Paris club PSG is a "possibility". Messi was in tears at the beginning of Sunday's press conference, during which he was energetically applauded by teammates and reporters. He started by confirming that he is leaving Barcelona, where he spent his entire professional career. Lionel Messi turned into a free agent upon the termination of his last agreement at Barcelona in June, and the club affirmed on Friday that they have not been able to secure him to another arrangement because of monetary and structural deterrents. ALSO READ: Football: 'I am not ready': 'Tearful' Lionel Messi breaks down while bidding Barcelona good bye - WATCH The Blaugrana couldn't re-sign the 34-year-old without surpassing La Liga's compensation limit, which means the six-time Ballon d'Or victor will currently be compelled to track down another club, and he concedes that the entire circumstance has come as an extraordinary shock to him. "I gave everything for this club from the first day I arrived to the last. I never imagined having to say goodbye as I didn't think about it. What's clear is I did everything possible, and they couldn't do it because of La Liga. "A lot of things have been said about me, but on my behalf, we did everything I could because I wanted to stay. Last year I didn't want to stay and I said it. This year I did and I couldn't. ALSO READ: Olympics 2020: Tokyo Games in the shadow of the pandemic The Argentine was likewise inquired as to whether reports of Paris Saint-Germain being his most probable next objective are valid, to which he reacted: “Paris Saint-Germain is a possibility, yes. At the moment nothing is confirmed, I received a lot of calls after the Barcelona statement. We’re talking about it." “The picture with Paris Saint-Germain was a coincidence, completely. I met them in Ibiza, we got together one day, we are friends. He called me and said I'm in Ibiza, we'll get together and there was a joke at the time, come to Paris. But it was a joke,” he added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by NJ 10 🇧🇷 (@neymarjr) × Cash-rich Paris Saint-Germain is one of the few clubs able to afford the Barcelona legend. A move to Paris would reunite him with his close friend Neymar Jr. with whom he played at Barcelona. The 34-year-old, who has been at the club for 21 years, becoming its all-time goalscorer with 682, broke down in tears before giving a speech and was greeted by a lengthy standing ovation from the media, current and former team mates and coaches in attendance.

Football: Paris Saint-Germain is a 'possibility', admits Lionel Messi

<p>Lionel Messi and Barcelona stunned the world when it arose that the Argentine star would leave the club after an agreement that had been concurred on a basic level was broken by the club's monetary hazard at the last moment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Catalan side declared that their best forward is set to leave, with Messi's future now progressively unsure.</p>

<p>Lionel Messi broke down as soon as he addressed the press.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-closing-ceremony-when-and-where-to-watch-ist-time-theme-venue-indian-flag-bearers-403843" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020 closing ceremony: When and where to watch; IST time, theme, venue, Indian flag bearers</a></p>

<p>"In recent days I have been thinking about what I could say and the truth is that I cant think of anything, This is really difficult for me after so many years. I am not ready with this," he said.</p>

<p>"Since I was 13 I am here. I am really grateful for everything. My teammates, the former players, this club, So many beautiful things have happened in this club and have made me the person I am today," he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>.. Heartbreaking..💔😔<a href="https://t.co/PSqyV5O1dA">pic.twitter.com/PSqyV5O1dA</a></p>
— Leo Messi 🐐 (@LeoCuccittini_) <a href="https://twitter.com/LeoCuccittini_/status/1424316244447178753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Lionel Messi was struggling to hold himself together. He said, 'he never imagined leaving and especially not like this.'</p>

<p>Lionel Messi has been one of the two standout players in Barcelona. His performances have been a sheer joy to watch through the course of this decade. His performances have often left commentators speechless due to the sheer brilliance he exhibits on the field.</p>

<p>"It is difficult to choose one memorable moment. But, maybe the time when I made my debut - it was my dream come true. I will always remember the moment it all started," when he was asked about one of the memorable moments.&nbsp;</p>


Lionel Messi and Barcelona stunned the world when it arose that the Argentine star would leave the club after an agreement that had been concurred on a basic level was broken by the club's monetary hazard at the last moment.

Lionel Messi and Barcelona stunned the world when it arose that the Argentine star would leave the club after an agreement that had been concurred on a basic level was broken by the club's monetary hazard at the last moment. The Catalan side declared that their best forward is set to leave, with Messi's future now progressively unsure. Lionel Messi broke down as soon as he addressed the press. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020 closing ceremony: When and where to watch; IST time, theme, venue, Indian flag bearers "In recent days I have been thinking about what I could say and the truth is that I cant think of anything, This is really difficult for me after so many years. I am not ready with this," he said. "Since I was 13 I am here. I am really grateful for everything. My teammates, the former players, this club, So many beautiful things have happened in this club and have made me the person I am today," he added. Leo #Messi.. Heartbreaking..💔😔pic.twitter.com/PSqyV5O1dA — Leo Messi 🐐 (@LeoCuccittini_) August 8, 2021 × Lionel Messi was struggling to hold himself together. He said, 'he never imagined leaving and especially not like this.' Lionel Messi has been one of the two standout players in Barcelona. His performances have been a sheer joy to watch through the course of this decade. His performances have often left commentators speechless due to the sheer brilliance he exhibits on the field. "It is difficult to choose one memorable moment. But, maybe the time when I made my debut - it was my dream come true. I will always remember the moment it all started," when he was asked about one of the memorable moments.

Football: 'I am not ready': 'Tearful' Lionel Messi breaks down while bidding Barcelona good bye - WATCH

<p>Brazil retained their Olympic football title with substitute Malcom scoring an extra-time winner in a 2-1 victory over Spain in the men`s gold medal match on Saturday.<br />
<br />
After the game ended 1-1 in normal time, Malcom raced onto a diagonal ball from Antony and got the better of Jesus Vallejo before driving the winner into the far corner in the 108th minute to ensure Brazil repeated their Rio 2016 triumph.<br />
<br />
Dani Alves, Brazil`s 38-year-old captain, who had led the team as an over-age player in a bid to win a major global tournament with his country, collapsed to his knees at the final whistle and buried his face in his hands.<br />
<br />
The Brazilian players made up for the absence of fans in the 65,000 Yokohama stadium by going through the full repertoire of celebratory songs after the final whistle.<br />
<br />
An Olympic gold in football will never match a World Cup title but for 120 minutes there was no doubt that this match meant plenty to both sides.<br />
<br />
Brazil were awarded a penalty in the 39th minute when Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon came out to punch clear a cross but crashed into Matheus Cunha, only for Richarlison to blast the spot-kick high over the bar.<br />
<br />
The South Americans grabbed the lead on the stroke of halftime, however, when a deep Claudinho cross was hooked back across the area by Dani Alves and Cunha brought the ball down to slot home.<br />
<br />
Spain threatened little but got on level terms in the 61st minute when substitute Carlos Soler broke down the right and whipped a cross to the back post where Mikel Oyarzabal connected with a sweet left-foot volley that whistled past Santos.<br />
<br />
With Brazil looking to break on the counter and Spain moving the ball well, the game was tightly balanced in the latter stages but the Spaniards came closest to grabbing a win in normal time.<br />
<br />
Oscar Gil`s cross shot from the right caught out Santos and struck the top of the bar in the 86th minute and two minutes later Bryan Gil`s thundering shot from outside the box blasted against the bar.<br />
<br />
That meant extra-time and the introduction of Malcom by Brazil coach Andre Jardine, which proved to be crucial as the Zenit St Petersburg winger wrote his name into Brazilian football folklore.</p>


Brazil retained their Olympic football title with substitute Malcom scoring an extra-time winner in a 2-1 victory over Spain in the men`s gold medal match on Saturday.

Brazil retained their Olympic football title with substitute Malcom scoring an extra-time winner in a 2-1 victory over Spain in the men`s gold medal match on Saturday. After the game ended 1-1 in normal time, Malcom raced onto a diagonal ball from Antony and got the better of Jesus Vallejo before driving the winner into the far corner in the 108th minute to ensure Brazil repeated their Rio 2016 triumph. Dani Alves, Brazil`s 38-year-old captain, who had led the team as an over-age player in a bid to win a major global tournament with his country, collapsed to his knees at the final whistle and buried his face in his hands. The Brazilian players made up for the absence of fans in the 65,000 Yokohama stadium by going through the full repertoire of celebratory songs after the final whistle. An Olympic gold in football will never match a World Cup title but for 120 minutes there was no doubt that this match meant plenty to both sides. Brazil were awarded a penalty in the 39th minute when Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon came out to punch clear a cross but crashed into Matheus Cunha, only for Richarlison to blast the spot-kick high over the bar. The South Americans grabbed the lead on the stroke of halftime, however, when a deep Claudinho cross was hooked back across the area by Dani Alves and Cunha brought the ball down to slot home. Spain threatened little but got on level terms in the 61st minute when substitute Carlos Soler broke down the right and whipped a cross to the back post where Mikel Oyarzabal connected with a sweet left-foot volley that whistled past Santos. With Brazil looking to break on the counter and Spain moving the ball well, the game was tightly balanced in the latter stages but the Spaniards came closest to grabbing a win in normal time. Oscar Gil`s cross shot from the right caught out Santos and struck the top of the bar in the 86th minute and two minutes later Bryan Gil`s thundering shot from outside the box blasted against the bar. That meant extra-time and the introduction of Malcom by Brazil coach Andre Jardine, which proved to be crucial as the Zenit St Petersburg winger wrote his name into Brazilian football folklore.

Tokyo Olympics: Malcom grabs golden glory for Brazil in football

<p>Barcelona joined rivals Real Madrid&nbsp;on Thursday in denouncing a proposed multi-billion-dollar investment and revenue-sharing deal between Spain's top soccer league, La Liga, and private equity firm CVC.<br />
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The statement came in the aftermath of the club announcing all-time top scorer Lionel Messi would leave the Camp Nou after 18 years due to financial constraints put on them by La Liga. [L1N2PC2AX]<br />
<br />
The Spanish football league on Wednesday announced that CVC would inject 2.7 billion euros ($3.2 billion) into La Liga in exchange for 10% of its revenue and a 10% stake in most of its business, with 90% of the injection going to clubs.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-to-leave-barcelona-due-to-financial-and-structural-obstacles-says-club-403279">Lionel Messi to leave Barcelona due to 'financial and structural obstacles', says club</a></strong><br />
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"FC Barcelona considers that the operation that has been announced has not been sufficiently discussed with the clubs (the owners of the TV rights); that the amount is not congruent with the years of duration, and the deal affects part of all clubs'&nbsp;audiovisual rights for the next 50 years," a club statement read.<br />
<br />
"The terms of the contract that La Liga is describing condemn Barcelona’s future with regard to broadcasting rights.<br />
<br />
"FC Barcelona wishes to express its surprise at an agreement driven by LaLiga in which the teams’ opinions, including those of FC Barcelona, have not been taken into account.<br />
<br />
"There has not even been a presentation of options offered by other competitors in order to evaluate the pros and cons in a post-pandemic situation in which there are still many questions that are left unanswered."<br />
<br />
Barca, along with Real and Juventus of Italy, remain wedded to the ill-fated European Super League idea that was announced earlier this year, but collapsed after fan backlash as nine of the 12 founder clubs pulled out.<br />
<br />
The Spanish football league's Executive Committee, which includes the bosses of Atletico Madrid and Sevilla but not those of Real or Barca, approved the planned CVC deal on Wednesday and it will now be put to a vote by all league members from the top two divisions.</p>


Barcelona joined rivals Real Madrid on Thursday in denouncing a proposed multi-billion-dollar investment and revenue-sharing deal between Spain's top soccer league, La Liga, and private equity firm CVC.

Barcelona joined rivals Real Madrid on Thursday in denouncing a proposed multi-billion-dollar investment and revenue-sharing deal between Spain's top soccer league, La Liga, and private equity firm CVC. The statement came in the aftermath of the club announcing all-time top scorer Lionel Messi would leave the Camp Nou after 18 years due to financial constraints put on them by La Liga. [L1N2PC2AX] The Spanish football league on Wednesday announced that CVC would inject 2.7 billion euros ($3.2 billion) into La Liga in exchange for 10% of its revenue and a 10% stake in most of its business, with 90% of the injection going to clubs. ALSO READ | Lionel Messi to leave Barcelona due to 'financial and structural obstacles', says club "FC Barcelona considers that the operation that has been announced has not been sufficiently discussed with the clubs (the owners of the TV rights); that the amount is not congruent with the years of duration, and the deal affects part of all clubs' audiovisual rights for the next 50 years," a club statement read. "The terms of the contract that La Liga is describing condemn Barcelona’s future with regard to broadcasting rights. "FC Barcelona wishes to express its surprise at an agreement driven by LaLiga in which the teams’ opinions, including those of FC Barcelona, have not been taken into account. "There has not even been a presentation of options offered by other competitors in order to evaluate the pros and cons in a post-pandemic situation in which there are still many questions that are left unanswered." Barca, along with Real and Juventus of Italy, remain wedded to the ill-fated European Super League idea that was announced earlier this year, but collapsed after fan backlash as nine of the 12 founder clubs pulled out. The Spanish football league's Executive Committee, which includes the bosses of Atletico Madrid and Sevilla but not those of Real or Barca, approved the planned CVC deal on Wednesday and it will now be put to a vote by all league members from the top two divisions.

Football: Barcelona join Real Madrid in rejecting La Liga's proposed CVC investment

<p>Players from all 20 Premier League clubs will continue to take the knee ahead of games this season to highlight their opposition to racism, the league said on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The Premier League said it "wholeheartedly supported" the decision, adding that players and match officials will continue to wear a No Room For Racism badge on their shirts.</p>

<p>Players and staff have been taking a knee prior to kickoff since the league returned to action in June last year to show their support for the Black Lives Matter movement.</p>

<p>"We feel now, more than ever, it is important for us to continue to take the knee as a symbol of our unity against all forms of racism," the players said in a statement.</p>

<p>"We remain resolutely committed to our singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect, and equal opportunities for all."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-american-sydney-mclaughlin-shatters-world-record-to-win-womens-400-hurdles-402723" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: American Sydney McLaughlin shatters world record to win women's 400 hurdles</a></p>

<p>Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said they would continue to work with players, clubs, and&nbsp;football&nbsp;partners to bring about "tangible change" and remove inequality from the sport.</p>

<p>Earlier on Tuesday, the English&nbsp;Football&nbsp;League (EFL) said it would back any players and staff who want to take the knee during the 2021-22 season.</p>

<p>"For over a year, players have made the personal choice to perform this simple act of protest... helping shine a light on these issues in society and continue a conversation that has been heard across the world," the EFL said in a statement.</p>

<p>The EFL will also be promoting a new "Together Against Discrimination" matchday message that will see clubs across its three divisions adopting a unified position reiterating that racism, discrimination and abuse are not welcome in&nbsp;football.</p>

<p>The Championship, League One and League Two all kick off this weekend, while the Premier League begins on Aug. 13 with promoted Brentford hosting Arsenal.</p>


Players from all 20 Premier League clubs will continue to take the knee ahead of games this season to highlight their opposition to racism, the league said on Tuesday.

Players from all 20 Premier League clubs will continue to take the knee ahead of games this season to highlight their opposition to racism, the league said on Tuesday. The Premier League said it "wholeheartedly supported" the decision, adding that players and match officials will continue to wear a No Room For Racism badge on their shirts. Players and staff have been taking a knee prior to kickoff since the league returned to action in June last year to show their support for the Black Lives Matter movement. "We feel now, more than ever, it is important for us to continue to take the knee as a symbol of our unity against all forms of racism," the players said in a statement. "We remain resolutely committed to our singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect, and equal opportunities for all." ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: American Sydney McLaughlin shatters world record to win women's 400 hurdles Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said they would continue to work with players, clubs, and football partners to bring about "tangible change" and remove inequality from the sport. Earlier on Tuesday, the English Football League (EFL) said it would back any players and staff who want to take the knee during the 2021-22 season. "For over a year, players have made the personal choice to perform this simple act of protest... helping shine a light on these issues in society and continue a conversation that has been heard across the world," the EFL said in a statement. The EFL will also be promoting a new "Together Against Discrimination" matchday message that will see clubs across its three divisions adopting a unified position reiterating that racism, discrimination and abuse are not welcome in football. The Championship, League One and League Two all kick off this weekend, while the Premier League begins on Aug. 13 with promoted Brentford hosting Arsenal.

Football: Premier League players to continue taking the knee next season

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