French midfielder Mathias Amougou has opened up and revealed just how happy he is to have signed with CHELSEA.
Amougou was a regular starter for Saint-Etienne in the first few months of the season under their previous head coach Olivier Dall’Oglio, but he has been used more as a substitute under new boss Eirik Horneland.
Chelsea have been keeping a very close eye on the development of the midfielder and decided to make the move to bring him to Stamford Bridge for a fee of around £12 million, he has also signed a massive eight-year deal.
And after making the move to Chelsea, Amougou has opened up and admitted that he is very happy with the move: ‘I’m very happy,’ Amougou said. ‘It’s an honour for me to sign for such a big club like Chelsea. They believe in young players and the process they have in place to develop us is fantastic.’
Reporter Iomie Stanley says…
‘He may be very happy right now, he may be glad that such a massive club like Chelsea have come calling and offered him a move to the Premier League, he may be happy until the summer.
‘The squad that Chelsea have, the midfielders already at Stamford Bridge, players like Amougou coming in at this stage of their careers to try and make an impact, it will be very difficult for the lad.
‘I am not saying that he doesnt have the potential to be a big star, what i am saying is that he will probably be shipped out on loan for the next few seasons, forgotten about and then sold for a fee that is similar to what CHELSEA paid.
‘We have seen it in the past and we will see it in the future, he did not need to leave for Chelsea, i have said it before, this is a move that he will surely come to regret.’
Andre Onana’s start to life as a Manchester United player was far from smooth, with huge errors in the Champions League causing the Red Devils to crash out in the group stages last season.
The Cameroonian was expected to come into his own in his sophomore campaign, but things have been far from smooth with the shot-stopper continuing his trend of making high-profile mistakes both in Europe and in the Premier League.
Former United midfielder Nemanja Matic had termed him the worst keeper in the club’s history, with many pundits opining that Ruben Amorim must let him go in the summer.
Now, former assistant manager Mitchell van der Gaag, who along with former boss Erik ten Hag brought the Cameroon international to the club, said the job of a goalkeeper at United was the hardest and Onana, like all other United players, has not performed to the best of his ability this term.
“It’s an emotional rollercoaster [being a goalkeeper for United],” he told BBC. “That’s what I think looking from the outside now but from last year’s experience as well.”
“Then you need results as well. Coaches, players need results. You need consistency from the team. I already knew Andre from Ajax and he’s a good goalkeeper. He showed that at Inter as well.”
But he backed the 29-year-old to come good. The Dutchman claimed that the former Ajax star had shown his mental fortitude to come back from low points earlier in his career as well and he is confident that shot-stopper can do the same now.
Backed Onana to come good
“We cannot forget the impact Man Utd has on everyone. That criticism is there, excellence is expected and players have to deal with that. The other part is that there will always be comparisons.
“He is under pressure and scrutiny but he has overcome many challenges in his career before. At the start of last season, everyone was saying he was United’s best and most consistent player so it can change quickly.”
The Peoples Person has relayed that given Amorim’s need to strengthen up top, there might not be too much budget left over for goalkeeping reinforcements.
It really is why we go, why we go again, and why we keep doing it to ourselves.
It’s a sport where scoring happens less than in many other sports. How many goals do you get in a game of football? Sometimes none at all, other times maybe a maximum of five. Often somewhere in between. Goals are like gold dust. They are each and every one of them moments of real meaning, much more so than many other sports.
Combine that with the tribal, quasi-religious nature of football, and you have all the ingredients for the moment that engulfed us all in the 97th minute of yesterday’s game.
And, oh boy – ay caramba, hell’s bells – were we engulfed by it. Come about the 85th minute I had resigned myself to suffer the kind of mixed emotions that I can only describe as a ‘spirited disaster’. A nod of approval at the sheer courageousness of our response and a dogged will to win, combined with a sense of frustration at the foot-shooting that had got us into the mess in the first place.
Then Odegaard fires over the final corner in the final moment of this most breathtaking of games. I see it spin out to Nelson – whose presence on the pitch is a whole other story in itself – and the next thing I see is the ball arrowing like an Exocet towards my actual head. This clip was pretty much our view. Had there been no net, the blog would currently be being written by a headless man.
As it was, the net saved me from being a headless man only momentarily. Let’s just say there were limbs aplenty, limbs akimbo – it was unremittingly limbtabulous. There have been moments of ecstasy like this at the Emirates Stadium, even this season. But in these circumstances, at that time, having been two down and with a goal that would grace a World Cup final? I don’t remember anything like it short of going back to Platt and Henry v United. I will never forget this moment.
“The best game I’ve ever been to”, said my 14-year-old son. And who can argue otherwise?
Want to see it again? Who am I kidding – you’ve all watched it a trillion and twelve times but if you want more and haven’t seen it, this thread from Dan Critchlow covers all the bases. Arsenal fans the world over hurling themselves everywhere, going utterly mental, jumping into pools, gyrating. Imagine Reiss Nelson watching a thread like that? This is what your left foot did. You reduced – or is elevated? – us to this. It doesn’t matter how the rest of the season pans out, or his Arsenal career, because that strike has gone down into folklore already.
The celebrations on the pitch were no less pandemonious. Men down, men shooting off in competing directions, other men coming on the pitch. Everyone lost their absolute shit and I am completely here for it.
There were other goals too, should I mention them? I won’t talk of Bournemouth’s, why ruin the moment? But a hat tip to Nelson (again) for his cross and another hat-tip to Ben White for a magnificent strike to level it. Just.
What does this mean for our season? Had we drawn it would have been another momentum-swinger. But we won and what that says about this team is the kind of thing that, if you could bottle it, would make you millions. Can we do it? Hold your horses. There are 12 games to go, and trust me every game is going to feel as decisive as this.
I am here for the challenge, whether we make it or not. This team is magnificent. We’re there for them, they’re there for us, and that they’re there for each other is unquestionable. Just enjoy the ride. And try to breathe.
(I told you I’d write a blog Mr C – hope your hangover subsided, and that you have another one today).
Ronaldo and his teammates competed in the tournament’s final rounds in Saudi Arabia, where the top Asian clubs battled through the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final in a tightly scheduled week of matches. ..Continue Reading
After dominant performances from Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, and Jhon Duran helped Al Nassr secure a decisive victory over Yokohama F. Marinos—who currently sit at the bottom of the J1 League following the dismissal of former England assistant coach Steve Holland—the Saudi side faced another Japanese opponent in the semi-finals.
Kawasaki Frontale, the lone non-Saudi team in the last four, proved too strong for Al Nassr, securing a 3-2 win and advancing to Saturday’s final against Al Ahli.
Ronaldo had two chances to equalize in stoppage time. His first opportunity—a free kick—was denied by Kawasaki goalkeeper Louis Yamaguchi, and his second was a clear scoring chance after dribbling past Yamaguchi, only to be denied by Asahi Sasaki’s impressive goal-line defense.
Given Ronaldo’s pedigree, the miss was unexpected, and his reaction spoke volumes.
They knocked Ronaldo out of the AFC Champions League and my G started speaking to ghosts! ???????? pic.twitter.com/UM9dYluZEG
Standing in the middle of King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, the 40-year-old appeared to analyze his mistake, visibly frustrated, gesturing and even mimicking the left-footed strike he felt he should have used to force extra time.
Earlier in the match, Kawasaki took the lead with a spectacular volley from Tatsuya Ito, though Mane quickly leveled the score.
Goals from Yuto Ozeki and club legend Akihiro Ienaga put the J.League side 3-1 ahead with just 15 minutes remaining, but Ayman Yahya’s deflected shot reignited Al Nassr’s hopes.
Ronaldo’s late opportunity ultimately went unconverted, sealing Al Nassr’s exit as Stefano Pioli’s squad fell short.
Since joining the Saudi club in 2023, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has yet to claim a trophy in either domestic or AFC competition.
Clearly, Reiss Nelson’s goal was all a bit much for me. Surfing on a wave of excitement, I extolled the virtues of his winning goal against Bournemouth that kept our title challenge alive.
And then… nothing. I don’t know why. But I stopped blogging again, thereby missing recording the agony of falling short (along with the glee at coming second and getting back into the Champions League).
And then I missed it all again, swerving the quill for the entirety of this season, during which we came second again but only by several points, and were better in almost all discernible ways. Almost.
But enough about me, what about poor old Reiss Nelson? His cameo may well have sealed his place in the Arsenal hall of fame, but at the time you’d have been forgiven for thinking that it may have been a kick-start for his Arsenal career.
And then what? He played just 257 minutes of league football this season, starting just once, and had one shot on goal. His sole goal came in the League Cup.
His rocket that day in March 2023 turned out to be his high-water mark for the club – I think we can say that now, barring some unlikely change of fortune. I suppose it’s not a bad way to be remembered, but his career has hit the buffers and at 24 years old, he desperately needs regular football. It seems almost impossible to see him here next year (and it would be a waste of his talent too).
As we sit back and enjoy the glow of a season that, as a fan, was about as enjoyable as it can get, we see many winners, from this season’s new boys Declan Rice, David Raya and Kai Havertz, to the rock solid partnership of Gabriel and Saliba, and beyond to White, Saka, Odegaard and Trossard.
Reiss Nelson, sadly, was not among them, and that is the brutal reality of competing at the highest level.
The Bundesliga is Germany’s top-tier professional football league, recognized worldwide for its competitive nature and passionate fan base. Established in 1963, the league has become one of the most prestigious in Europe, producing legendary players, world-class clubs, and thrilling football experiences. Unlike many other European leagues, the Bundesliga is known for its strong emphasis on homegrown talent, financial sustainability, and fan-friendly policies.
Before the Bundesliga’s formation, German football was fragmented into various regional leagues, lacking a unified system. The introduction of a nationwide league helped streamline professional football in Germany, allowing clubs to compete at a higher level and ensuring better organization. Since then, the Bundesliga has undergone numerous transformations, including structural changes, increased commercial appeal, and advancements in player development programs.
A key characteristic of the Bundesliga is its remarkable attendance figures. It consistently boasts one of the highest average attendance rates in global football, surpassing leagues like the English Premier League and La Liga. This is largely due to its affordable ticket prices and a culture that prioritizes fan involvement. The iconic 50+1 rule, which prevents private investors from owning a controlling stake in clubs, ensures that supporters maintain significant influence over their teams.
Another defining aspect of the Bundesliga is its fast-paced, high-scoring matches. Compared to other top European leagues, Bundesliga games tend to feature more goals per match on average, making it an attractive spectacle for fans. Clubs like Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, and RB Leipzig have played significant roles in shaping the league’s identity, competing in both domestic and international tournaments.
Understanding what is Bundesliga is crucial for any football enthusiast looking to explore the dynamics of European football. It is a league built on history, tradition, and a commitment to excellence. Whether through its top-class football, passionate supporters, or impressive youth development programs, the Bundesliga remains a cornerstone of the global football landscape.
Structure and Format of the Bundesliga
The Bundesliga operates under a unique league format that distinguishes it from other major European football competitions. Unlike leagues such as the English Premier League or Serie A, which have 20 teams, the Bundesliga consists of 18 teams. This structure results in a slightly shorter season, with each club playing 34 matches—17 at home and 17 away.
One of the key features of the Bundesliga is its promotion and relegation system, which connects it to the 2. Bundesliga, the second division of German football. At the end of each season, the bottom two teams in the Bundesliga are automatically relegated to the second tier, while the top two teams from the 2. Bundesliga are promoted. The 16th-placed Bundesliga team then plays a two-legged relegation playoff against the third-placed team from the 2. Bundesliga to determine which club will compete in the top division the following season.
3 points for a win
1 point for a draw
0 points for a loss
If two or more teams finish the season with the same number of points, the league uses several tie-breaking criteria to determine rankings. The first tiebreaker is goal difference, followed by total goals scored. If teams are still tied, head-to-head results between the clubs are considered.
Bayern Munich
Borussia Dortmund
RB Leipzig
Bayer Leverkusen
Eintracht Frankfurt
SC Freiburg
VfL Wolfsburg
Union Berlin
Borussia Mönchengladbach
Werder Bremen
VfB Stuttgart
TSG Hoffenheim
FC Augsburg
FSV Mainz 05
VfL Bochum
FC Heidenheim
Darmstadt 98
While the list of teams may change from season to season due to the promotion and relegation system, certain clubs like Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund have consistently remained in the top flight, shaping the league’s competitive landscape.
The league schedule runs from August to May, with a winter break in December and January, a tradition that accommodates Germany’s colder climate. Unlike some leagues, the Bundesliga also has a balanced fixture calendar, ensuring that each team faces every opponent twice in a fair and organized manner.
This structured format, combined with financial regulations and youth development programs, makes the Bundesliga one of the most sustainable and well-managed leagues in world football.
Historical Evolution of the Bundesliga
The Bundesliga has undergone significant changes since its establishment in 1963, evolving into one of the most respected football leagues in the world. Initially, German football was divided into multiple regional leagues known as the Oberliga, with no centralized national competition. The need for a unified, professional league became evident when Germany failed to compete effectively on the international stage in the 1950s.
After the German Football Association (DFB) approved the formation of a national league, the Bundesliga was launched with 16 teams, a number that later expanded to 18. The league’s early years were dominated by clubs like 1. FC Köln and Borussia Mönchengladbach, but it wasn’t long before Bayern Munich emerged as the most dominant force.
Major Transformations Over the Decades
One of the most significant moments in Bundesliga history was the reunification of Germany in 1990. This allowed clubs from East Germany to participate in the league structure, integrating teams that had previously competed in the separate DDR-Oberliga. This shift increased the league’s competitiveness and broadened its national appeal.
The 1990s and early 2000s saw increased commercialization and global reach, with the Bundesliga negotiating lucrative broadcasting deals. The introduction of modern stadiums before the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany also helped the league attract more international attention.
Today, understanding what is Bundesliga requires looking at its legacy as a league that balances financial stability with high-level competition. With strict financial regulations, an emphasis on youth development, and a tradition of exciting, attacking football, the Bundesliga continues to set itself apart as one of the world’s premier football leagues.
Bundesliga’s Impact on German Football
The Bundesliga has played a crucial role in shaping German football, both at the club and international levels. It is not just a competition; it serves as a platform for talent development, financial sustainability, and strategic football innovation. The league’s commitment to youth development and tactical evolution has made Germany one of the most successful football nations in history.
One of the biggest contributions of the Bundesliga is its youth academy system. Clubs invest heavily in their academies, focusing on technical and tactical training from a young age. The introduction of strict youth development regulations in the early 2000s has resulted in a steady pipeline of world-class players. This system produced stars such as Thomas Müller, Joshua Kimmich, and Jamal Musiala, who have become key figures for both their clubs and the national team.
Additionally, the Bundesliga’s financial model has been widely praised for its sustainability. Unlike other major European leagues, German clubs follow the 50+1 ownership rule, which ensures that fans retain majority control over club decisions. This prevents reckless spending and financial mismanagement, making the Bundesliga one of the most stable leagues in global football.
The league has also had a significant impact on Germany’s international success. Many key players in the German national team play in the Bundesliga, providing a strong domestic core that has led to victories in major tournaments, including the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Year
Number of Bundesliga Players in Squad
Major Tournament Played
2010
19 out of 23
FIFA World Cup (3rd Place)
2014
16 out of 23
FIFA World Cup (Winners)
2018
15 out of 23
FIFA World Cup (Group Stage)
2022
17 out of 26
FIFA World Cup (Group Stage)
The table above shows the influence of the Bundesliga on the German national team. Despite fluctuating performances in recent tournaments, Bundesliga-based players remain the backbone of the squad.
Beyond player development, the league has also influenced tactical approaches in world football. The high-pressing style used by clubs such as RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich has been adopted by teams across Europe. Coaches trained in the Bundesliga, including Jürgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel, have brought German tactical ideas to leagues like the Premier League and La Liga.
As a result, the Bundesliga continues to be a vital component of German football’s success. Through its commitment to sustainable growth, player development, and tactical evolution, the league will likely remain at the forefront of European football for years to come.
International Influence and Broadcast Reach
Over the years, the Bundesliga has expanded its influence beyond Germany, establishing itself as one of the most-watched football leagues in the world. While traditionally dominated by German fans, the league has successfully reached a global audience through strategic broadcasting deals, international partnerships, and marketing campaigns. Today, millions of viewers across different continents tune in to watch Bundesliga matches every week, making it a truly international football competition.
A key factor in this expansion is the league’s commitment to accessibility. The Bundesliga International division has actively worked to secure broadcasting deals in over 200 countries, ensuring that fans from Asia, North America, and Africa can watch live matches. The league has also tailored its scheduling to accommodate international time zones, helping to increase viewership in growing markets such as China, India, and the United States.
The Role of Global Stars in Popularizing the Bundesliga
One of the driving forces behind the Bundesliga’s global appeal is the presence of international football stars. Players from different regions bring their own fan bases, helping to increase viewership and media coverage. Over the years, world-class players like Robert Lewandowski, Erling Haaland, and Jadon Sancho have made the league more attractive to international fans. Additionally, the Bundesliga has become a stepping stone for emerging talents who later move on to other top European leagues.
Understanding what is Bundesliga also involves recognizing how its clubs engage with fans worldwide. Teams like Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund frequently organize international tours, participate in friendly matches abroad, and run social media campaigns in multiple languages. These initiatives help strengthen the Bundesliga’s global presence and ensure that it remains a key player in international football.
Bundesliga’s Unique Fan Culture and Matchday Experience
One of the defining characteristics of the Bundesliga is its vibrant fan culture and unmatched matchday atmosphere. Unlike other top European leagues, where corporate influence has steadily increased, German football remains deeply rooted in traditions that prioritize fan engagement and accessibility.
Bundesliga clubs have some of the highest average attendance rates in the world, with stadiums regularly filled to capacity. The affordability of tickets is a major reason for this. While leagues like the Premier League have faced criticism for rising ticket prices, the Bundesliga ensures that football remains accessible to all fans. The 50+1 rule, which prevents external investors from taking full control of clubs, helps maintain this supporter-first mentality.
Another key feature of Bundesliga matchdays is the incredible fan displays in stadiums. Clubs like Borussia Dortmund are famous for their Yellow Wall, a sea of passionate supporters who create a breathtaking visual spectacle. Choreographed tifo displays, coordinated chants, and colorful banners are all part of what makes Bundesliga matches a unique experience.
Affordable Ticket Prices – Compared to other top European leagues, Bundesliga tickets are significantly cheaper.
Standing Terraces – Unlike most leagues that have eliminated standing areas, Bundesliga stadiums still feature safe-standing terraces, allowing for a more dynamic atmosphere.
Strong Club-Fan Relationships – The 50+1 rule ensures that clubs prioritize their supporters’ interests over profit-driven motives.
Impressive Choreography and Chants – Fans organize large-scale tifo displays, which contribute to the electric stadium environment.
Local Identity and Loyalty – Unlike in some leagues where club ownership frequently changes, Bundesliga teams have maintained strong regional ties, fostering deeper community connections.
Despite the increasing commercialization of modern football, Bundesliga clubs have found a way to balance financial success with fan engagement. The atmosphere inside German stadiums remains unmatched, with clubs ensuring that their supporters continue to be at the heart of the game.
Additionally, the presence of family-friendly policies in Bundesliga stadiums has helped attract a broader demographic of fans, including younger audiences. Many clubs actively promote youth involvement by offering discounted tickets and organizing interactive events on matchdays.
Ultimately, the Bundesliga’s approach to fan culture has set a benchmark for leagues worldwide. The combination of affordable prices, standing terraces, and deeply rooted traditions ensures that matchdays remain an unforgettable experience for every supporter who walks through the stadium gates.
The Legacy and Future of The Bundesliga
The Bundesliga has firmly established itself as one of the most exciting and well-structured football leagues in the world. With a strong foundation built on financial sustainability, youth development, and fan engagement, the league continues to thrive both domestically and internationally. Its unique approach to club ownership and governance ensures that teams remain closely connected to their supporters, preserving the integrity of German football.
Throughout its history, the Bundesliga has adapted to various changes in global football while staying true to its core values. The league has been home to some of the greatest footballers and managers, influencing tactical developments and shaping the future of the sport. The presence of legendary clubs such as Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, and RB Leipzig has contributed to its competitive nature, making every season an exciting spectacle for fans.
Despite its many successes, the Bundesliga faces challenges in maintaining its position among Europe’s elite leagues. The financial power of the Premier League and the global appeal of La Liga have led to increased competition for top talent. However, Bundesliga clubs have consistently found ways to remain competitive by developing young players and implementing innovative coaching methods.
Understanding what is Bundesliga means recognizing it as more than just a football league—it is a cultural phenomenon that represents the passion and dedication of German football. As the league looks to the future, its commitment to sustainability, competitive balance, and fan engagement will ensure that it remains a powerhouse in world football for years to come.
Everton are plotting a sensational move to bring Richarlison back to Goodison Park this summer, with the Brazilian forward emerging as a top target ahead of the transfer window.
Richarlison’s Tottenham Move Hasn’t Gone to Plan
Back in 2022, Richarlison’s £60 million switch to Tottenham was billed as a blockbuster deal. He arrived in North London after playing a pivotal role in helping Everton avoid relegation. However, his time at Spurs has been turbulent. A lacklustre first season saw him net just once, and while he found some form with 11 Premier League goals in his second campaign, injuries have wrecked his momentum this season, limiting him to only 12 appearances.
Everton Sensing an Opportunity
Now, with Tottenham reportedly open to offers, Everton smell an opportunity. The Brazilian’s stock has dipped, and the Toffees are weighing up a cut-price bid to reunite with a fan favourite. Richarlison is also said to be on the radar of Saudi clubs, but a return to Brazil looks unlikely. That leaves Everton with a chance to swoop in—if they can convince both Spurs and the player.
With Dominic Calvert-Lewin potentially on his way out as his contract winds down, David Moyes is eager to bolster his attack. Richarlison, with his passion, Premier League experience, and deep connection to the club, fits the bill perfectly.
Bringing him back to lead the line in Everton’s brand-new stadium could be the perfect way to kick off a new chapter.
Ruben Amorim, who took over as manager from Erik ten Hag in November, has endured a challenging start at Old Trafford. ..Continue Reading
United has struggled in the Premier League, averaging just over a point per game since his arrival, but has shown resilience in the Europa League, keeping hopes of Champions League qualification alive.
So far, Amorim has yet to bring in new players, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe prioritizing the upcoming summer transfer window instead of making moves in January.
However, United is now securing its first summer signing after reaching an agreement for Enzo Kana-Biyik from Ligue 1 club Le Havre.
French journalist Benjamin Quarez reports that the 18-year-old striker is traveling to Manchester to sign his contract on Wednesday.
Despite not yet featuring in a senior match for Le Havre, Kana-Biyik has been training with the first team this season.
He was an unused substitute in a Ligue 1 win over Lille in February and during Le Havre’s Coupe de France defeat to Stade Briochin in December.
Since the start of 2025, he has been a consistent presence for Le Havre U19, playing full matches in their last eight league fixtures and netting four goals, bringing his season tally to eight.
Kana-Biyik has also represented France U18s this season, though he has yet to score on the international stage.
Although born and raised in France, he comes from a footballing lineage—his father, Andre Kana-Biyik, had a successful career, earning 80 international caps for Cameroon during the 1990s.
United managed to beat competition from clubs such as Monaco and Marseille to secure his signature.
Reports from Le Parisien suggest that he may immediately return to mainland Europe, likely on loan to Lausanne, the Swiss Super League side owned by Ineos.
Jose Fonte has slammed CHELSEA over their failure to sign ‘the next Didier Drogba’ Victor Osimhen in the January transfer window, as the Blues failed to make that big signing fans really wanted.
Chelsea have been spending money for fun over the last few transfer windows, have signed some quality players, and have signed some stars that are not good enough to play on a regular basis, but they are still lacking a quality striker.
Nicolas Jackson works hard for Enzo Maresca and does put in the good performances every now and then, but many Blues fans were hoping that a new striker was going to make the move to London in the January window, and Osimhen was a player linked with a move to the Blues.
Obviously Chelsea didnt even make a move for Osimhen, and now Former Crystal Palace, Southampton, West Ham and Portugal defender Fonte feels the Blues may come to regret not securing a deal for Osimhen.
‘Chelsea are crying out for a striker like Victor Osimhen,’ Fonte told BoyleSports, who offer the latest Premier League betting. ‘Look at CHELSEA and all the greats they have had up front. As a striker he could be another Didier Drogba for them, he is a winner.
‘They have a different style of play and Drogba is a legend, but he has pace, power and technical quality. He wins his duels and is such a handful for defenders.’
Fonte added: ‘When I saw Victor Osimhen go to Galatasaray, I thought it was foolish that no Premier League club had signed him.
‘Once Osimhen gets into the Premier League I think he will bully defenders, he is aggressive, fast, clever and powerful. ‘I played against him in the Champions League and I’m sure he took it easy on me as a friend at almost 40, but it was still a nightmare.
‘He’s a player that has been a hardworking kid, that came from nothing, as a grafter, and all the success that he’s having, he deserves it.
‘I can’t wait to see him in the Premier League because he’s one of those guys that you want to see against the very best.
‘You want to see him in the Premier League week in and week out and we will see that this is where he belongs.’
Manchester United are reportedly “leading the race” to sign Rodrygo as the Real Madrid winger draws closer to a dramatic exit from the Bernabeu.
Rodrygo, 24, was a crucial part of the Madrid side which secured an imperious Liga and Champions League double last season.
The Brazilian international scored 18 goals and provided nine assists in all competitions during the campaign, but it was his unrelenting work-rate and selflessness which made the skilful winger stand out.
The signing of French superstar Kylian Mbappe on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer has unsettled the balance of the Madrid attack this season, however.
Carlo Ancelotti has struggled to find a formula which fits Mbappe and Rodrygo into a functioning attack alongside Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior. Rodrygo has often been the victim of this imbalanced ‘quadro’ with less goals, assists and minutes on the pitch this season than last.
As a result, Madrid crashed out of the Champions League in the quarter-final stage against Arsenal and are currently second in La Liga, four points off leaders Barcelona.
Los Blancos’ bitter rivals also triumphed in the Copa del Rey final last weekend, beating Madrid 3-2, in what proved to be the final straw for Ancelotti’s time in the Spanish capital as it was confirmed the Italian coach would be leaving at the end of the season.
However, it now appears Rodrygo could be set to follow his manager through the exit door at the Bernabeu if a “big-money bid lands from the Premier League,” The Sun relays – with Old Trafford suggested as the most likely destination for the 24-year-old this summer.
“The 20-time Brazil international is ready to pack his bags and seek a new challenge, according to reports in the Spanish media.
“Real are believed to be looking for around £85million to let the Brazilian leave. Arsenal have been linked with a move, but it’s Manchester United who are reportedly leading the chase as they search for a statement signing for next season.”
The exorbitant transfer fee would prove difficult for the Red Devils to meet given the club’s financial difficulties, owing to the acute pressure of PSR.
But success in the Europa League this season – with a semi-final clash against Athletic Club this week – could offer both the prospect of Champions League football and a huge cash injection for United to use as negotiating gambits with Rodrygo’s representatives.
This remains a report The Peoples Person are sceptical of, given the unlikely idea Rodrygo would choose a side currently languished in 14th in the Premier League as his next destination, but if INEOS could pull off a sensational swoop it would arm Amorim with one of Europe’s elite attacking prospects to radically improving his misfiring forward line.
