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PGMOL chief Howard Webb makes shocking VAR change days before Premier League season

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The Video Assistant Referee system was first implemented in the Premier League during the 2019–20 season and has remained a fixture in the game ever since. ..Continue Reading

At present, VAR is authorized to intervene only in situations deemed to have a significant impact on the match.

As outlined by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), VAR involvement is restricted to instances involving penalties, straight red cards, goals or disallowed goals, and cases of mistaken identity — and only when a “clear and obvious error” has occurred.

Also, the “referee must always make a decision, i.e. the referee is not permitted to give ‘no decision’ and then use the VAR to make the decision; a decision to allow play to continue after an alleged offence can be reviewed”.

But how VAR is used could soon change, according to Howard Webb.

In an interview with BBC Sport, the former Premier League and FIFA international referee explained IFAB is reviewing how VAR operates and he is “open to discussion” regarding possible changes.

“There will definitely be discussions around possible extensions,” Webb said.

“We try to align VAR delivery with the expectations of those involved in the English game, based on consultation with fans, coaches and players. The message we get is ‘less is more’ with VAR, and we’ve done pretty well in aligning our delivery with that expectation.”

The 54-year-old then focused on VAR not currently interfering with yellow card calls that are incorrect or missed opportunities for a yellow card, which should be brandished, as well as the awarding of corners.

“I understand the impact of a wrongly awarded corner that’s clearly wrong – easy to see on video – and the impact of a wrongly issued yellow card,” he added.

“But equally, there’s also a feeling that VAR already exists to rectify clear errors in big situations, so we’ll have those discussions and make sure to consult with the English game as well.”

This comes after the ‘eight-second rule’ was approved for use ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Goalkeepers will now have only eight seconds to release the ball, with referees issuing a five-second countdown to warn players.

If a ‘keeper takes longer than the permitted eight seconds, a corner will be awarded to the attacking side.

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14/08/2025
Man City star makes his feelings clear on club signing Donnarumma as he announces PSG exit

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Manchester City forward Erling Haaland has responded to the news that Gianluigi Donnarumma is set to leave Paris Saint-Germain this summer, amid speculation linking the goalkeeper with a move to The Etihad.

On Tuesday, PSG manager Luis Enrique revealed he was seeking a ‘different type’ of goalkeeper, having dropped Donnarumma from the squad for their Super Cup fixture against Tottenham. ..Continue Reading

Speaking to the media, the Spaniard stated: “Donnarumma is out of the squad as it’s my own decision, I am 100% responsible.”

Donnarumma played a crucial role for PSG last season, helping them secure their long-awaited Champions League title. Following his unexpected exclusion, the Italian international responded publicly.

On Wednesday night, the 26-year-old shared an emotional and pointed message on Instagram, seemingly addressing Enrique’s decision directly.

He wrote: “Unfortunately, someone has decided that I can no longer be part of the group and contribute to the team’s success. I am disappointed and disheartened.

“I hope to have the opportunity to look the fans at the Parc des Princes in the eyes one more time and say goodbye as it should be done.”

He added: “If that doesn’t happen, I want you to know that your support and affection mean the world to me, and I will never forget it.”

Fabrizio Romano reports that Manchester City have initiated talks regarding a possible move for Gianluigi Donnarumma, despite recently bringing James Trafford back into the squad.

Paris Saint-Germain are said to be asking for €50 million to part ways with the Italian goalkeeper.

However, City are unlikely to proceed unless Ederson departs during the current transfer window, making Donnarumma’s arrival contingent on the Brazilian’s exit.

As speculation around the transfer intensifies, fans were quick to notice Erling Haaland’s subtle reaction — the Norwegian striker liked Donnarumma’s Instagram post addressing his exclusion from PSG’s squad, sparking further intrigue.

Though Haaland and Donnarumma have never played together and have only faced each other a few times on the pitch, their similar age and status in world football make it entirely plausible that they share a friendship off the field.

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13/08/2025
Nick Woltemade makes his decision amid Manchester United’s interest – Man United News And Transfer News

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Manchester United are reportedly going full steam ahead in pursuit of Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig.

But owing to the Bundesliga side’s demands, INEOS have been forced to keep alternatives ready. Randal Kolo Muani is one name doing the rounds as is that of Nick Woltemade of VfB Stuttgart.

The German enjoyed a breakthrough 24/25 season, scoring 17 goals while also registering three assists in what was his debut campaign for Stuttgart.

And naturally, that kind of form has attracted the attentions of the Red Devils, along with Newcastle while Bayern Munich remain long-term admirers.

Nick Woltemade doesn’t want the Premier League

Journalist Christian Falk has now claimed that the 23-year-old is not keen on a move to the Premier League at this stage of his career.

Instead, he wants Bayern but his parent club have proven to be a tough nut to crack. As per the report, Sebastian Hoeneß’ side have rejected a €45 million and €55 million offer from the Bavarians

The Bundesliga champions are remaining patient, as they are aware not too many other teams will submit as lucrative an offer as theirs.

With a move to United or the Magpies ruled out, Stuttgart are under pressure to accept.

“Manchester United and Newcastle had Nick Woltemade on their shortlists. However, the VfB Stuttgart striker is still focused on Bayern Munich. He doesn’t want to leave the Bundesliga at this stage.

All eyes on Bayern

“On Wednesday, there was a meeting between the Bayern bosses where they discussed how they’ll move in the window for Woltemade. There have already been two offers rejected – one of €40m [£34.5m] plus €5m and the second of €50m [£43.2m] plus €5m.

“Now they’ve decided to play on time, as they don’t want to raise their offer again. They hope Stuttgart will come back to the table, as it’s a lot of money for the club as it stands, and they can’t guarantee that another club will be prepared to pay this fee next year. So, it’s a tactic by Bayern to put pressure on Stuttgart.”

This update will not hurt United as much as it affects Newcastle. INEOS seem to be focussed on Sesko, and Woltemade was only backup.

As for Eddie Howe’s side, they have failed to land multiple priority targets, and following Sesko’s snub, even his fellow Bundesliga striker Nick Woltemade seems to arriving at a similar conclusion.

Feature image Stuart Franklin via Getty Images

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02/08/2025
Lionel Messi makes his feelings clear on Hugo Ekitike with three-word nickname ahead of Liverpool transfer

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Reports on Thursday suggested that Liverpool have made an official offer to acquire Ekitike from Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt. ..Continue Reading

Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano wrote on social media: “EXCL: Liverpool have submitted official bid to Eintracht for Hugo Ekitike!

“Eintracht already informed Liverpool that they want more, proposal rejected but it was initial contact as talks continue. Ekitike said ???????????? Liverpool, no issues on personal terms. He wants #LFC.”

Here’s a rewritten version of each sentence with varied language and structure, Bolu:

At 23, Hugo Ekitike is considered one of Europe’s top young strikers, having tallied 22 goals and 12 assists in 48 matches across all competitions.

Liverpool, the reigning Premier League champions, have been actively searching for a new frontman this summer, with names like Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyokeres, and Benjamin Sesko all linked to the club.

After encountering setbacks in their pursuit of Isak from Newcastle, Liverpool now appear focused on securing a swift agreement for Ekitike.

Ekitike began his professional journey with Reims before making the move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2022.

While at PSG, he shared the locker room with global stars such as Lionel Messi, Sergio Ramos, and Kylian Mbappe.

In October 2022, it came to light that Messi had dubbed Ekitike “the iron rod,” a playful reference to his ‘wiry frame’.

French news outlet Get Football News France wrote: “Messi, meanwhile, has taken to naming him “the iron rod” in reference to his wiry frame. The inury-prone forward has also hired a personal trainer and a physio in order to develop his body for the highest level.”

So far this transfer window, Liverpool have brought in Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, and Milos Kerkez to bolster their squad.

In addition to Hugo Ekitike, several other names—Marc Guehi, Rodrygo, and Anthony Gordon—have also been linked with potential moves to Anfield.

Liverpool are set to kick off their Premier League title defense next month with a home fixture against Bournemouth at Anfield on August 15.

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18/07/2025
Casemiro makes typically combative return to international action for Brazil – Man United News And Transfer News

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Manchester United had three players involved in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers.

Casemiro made his return to the Brazil national team after his former boss at Real Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti, was named manager. He was captain at the 2022 World Cup but has not been involved in the national team set-up for about a year.

The 33 year old started in the centre of the park and put in an impressive shift in his side’s 0-0 draw against Ecuador.

He played the entire 90 minutes, completing 72% of his passing attempts.

Casemiro was also an attacking threat, having one shot on target and one off as his side failed to break down a stubborn Ecuador side in Guayaquil.

As usual though, his most impressive work came in the middle of the park as he won six out of nine ground duels.

He also impressively won all four of his aerial battles, dominating the middle of the park like he had never been away.

The midfield enforcer was also heavily involved defensively, making six clearances and a total of five tackles.

Commenting in a post-match interview, Casemiro lamented the state of the pitch in Ecuador.

He claimed, “I think the pitch didn’t really help the match. I always say you can’t have excuses but the pitch, the field, didn’t help a lot.”

NO ESTABA BIEN LA CANCHA ❌|| Casemiro, mediocampista de Brasil 🇧🇷 : “El campo, el césped no ayudó mucho, no puede ser excusa” pic.twitter.com/jRGYaZKXQo

— ON TV DIGITAL (@ontvdigital__) June 6, 2025

United also had new signing Matheus Cunha on the bench and he played the final 26 minutes.

Unfortunately, he failed to have much of an impact on the game, as he could only complete seven passes and failed in his only dribble attempt.

Cunha was also unable to get off any shots on goal in the stalemate.

United’s loan star at Real Betis, Antony, was named on the bench but he did not manage to get any minutes of action.

Brazil will next be in action on Tuesday evening (Wednesday morning UK time) when they face Paraguay at home.

Manuel Ugarte also started for Uruguay in their 0-2 defeat to Paraguay.

He played the entire 90 minutes of action and made 79% of his passes.

Ugarte impressively connected with all six of his long range passes as he tried to propel his team forward. He won 100% of his aerials duels and was typically combative in the middle of the park, winning eight ground duels.

Ugarte as usual, was highly involved in the defensive dirty work, making five clearances and four tackles.

He will hope his side can bounce back from defeat when they host Venezuela on Tuesday evening (Wednesday morning UK time).

Featured image Franklin Jacome via Getty Images

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06/06/2025
What Makes the Premier League the Biggest Football League on the Planet?

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When it comes to football, few leagues can match the allure, scale, and impact of the English Premier League (EPL). Since its rebranding in 1992, the Premier League has not only revolutionised English football but has also become the most-watched and commercially successful football league in the world.

Star Power on Display

One of the Premier League’s greatest strengths lies in its sheer depth of talent. From Thierry Henry to Cristiano Ronaldo, and now Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah, the league has consistently attracted global superstars. The presence of elite players across all 20 clubs ensures that each fixture is a potential headline-grabber. Even mid-table clashes can produce moments of brilliance that dominate sports media across continents.

Moreover, the league’s competitive nature means that no single team dominates season after season. Leicester City’s fairytale title win in 2015–16 remains one of the most compelling underdog stories in modern sport—an outcome almost unthinkable in most other top-tier leagues.

Broadcasting Might and Global Reach

The Premier League’s commercial success is underpinned by its unparalleled broadcast deals. From NBC Sports in the United States to Star Sports in Asia and SuperSport in Africa, the EPL reaches over 200 territories with an estimated cumulative audience of over 3 billion people each season. The latest cycle of domestic TV rights alone is worth over £5 billion, with international rights catching up quickly.

This global saturation has not just filled the league’s coffers—it has created an ecosystem where fans from Lagos to Los Angeles can follow their favourite clubs, often with greater fervour than local teams.

Financial Firepower

Money talks in football, and the Premier League speaks louder than anyone. Thanks to its lucrative broadcast deals, the EPL boasts financial muscle unmatched by its European rivals. This has allowed even bottom-half clubs to outbid some of Europe’s elite for top talent.

Take Nottingham Forest, who spent over £150 million after promotion in 2022. That kind of spending power from a newly-promoted side is simply inconceivable in Italy’s Serie A or France’s Ligue 1. Financial might doesn’t just buy players—it funds world-class infrastructure, youth academies, and global marketing strategies that perpetuate the Premier League’s dominance.

Iconic Clubs, Global Brands

The Premier League is home to some of the biggest clubs in football history. Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City are not just successful on the pitch—they are globally recognised brands.

Their fanbases stretch across continents. You’ll find Arsenal jerseys in Nairobi, Manchester United chants in Bangkok, and Liverpool fan clubs in New York City. These clubs transcend sport and have become cultural icons, strengthening the league’s grip on the global football audience.

Managerial Elite

It’s not just players who shine in the Premier League. The managerial talent in the league is second to none. From tactical masterminds like Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta to charismatic leaders like Jurgen Klopp and Ange Postecoglou, the Premier League hosts a tactical battleground every week.

These managers bring global narratives, fierce rivalries, and elite footballing philosophies that shape the modern game. Their presence only adds to the league’s allure and competitive drama.

A League Like No Other

The English Premier League isn’t just a football competition—it’s a global phenomenon. With its unmatched competitiveness, commercial acumen, and cultural impact, the EPL has established itself as football’s true global giant. Whether it’s a relegation six-pointer on a rainy Tuesday in Burnley or a title-decider at the Etihad, every moment feels monumental.

It’s more than a league—it’s the theatre of dreams, and the world is always watching.

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01/06/2025
Viktor Gyokeres makes decision over Man Utd transfer as player & club on same page

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The Swedish striker had been considered a potential target for United, given his impressive performances under Ruben Amorim at Sporting. ..Continue Reading

Gyokeres finished the season as Europe’s top league goalscorer, netting an astonishing number of times and outscoring stars like Kylian Mbappe and Mohamed Salah.

Both United and Arsenal have been linked with a move for the prolific forward, but reports indicate that a transfer to Old Trafford is now highly improbable.

Gyokeres is reportedly not prioritizing a move to United, and the club has shifted its focus to securing Matheus Cunha instead.

Cunha, who has been a standout performer for Wolves, is expected to take on a key attacking role in Amorim’s system at United.

Despite Cunha’s imminent arrival, there would still be room for Gyokeres, but United’s attention has reportedly turned to Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap as their preferred striker option.

Amorim’s failure to secure Champions League qualification has impacted United’s financial flexibility, making a more affordable signing like Delap a practical choice.

Sporting is said to be open to selling Gyokeres for a significant fee, but United’s withdrawal from the race could benefit Arsenal, whose sporting director, Andrea Berta, has placed Gyokeres at the top of his transfer priorities.

The towering striker, who has amassed an impressive goal tally at Sporting, has not ruled out a summer move but remains noncommittal about his future.

“Let’s see,” he said. “It’s hard for me to say, because yeah, it is football and you never know what’s going to happen in the summer. So for me to say anything else than that is impossible.

“I’ve tried to focus on the last games because it’s so important and I don’t want to think about anything else. So yeah, if anything is true, let’s see in the summer.”

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29/05/2025
Antony breaks down in tears as he makes shocking revelations about time at Man Utd

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Signed by former manager Erik ten Hag for a significant fee, the Brazilian winger was immediately under pressure to justify his price tag. ..Continue Reading

However, he struggled to adjust to the demands of the Premier League and gradually fell out of favor at Old Trafford.

During the first half of the season, he failed to start a single league match and eventually moved to Real Betis on loan, having played only a limited number of minutes for United.

Despite his previous success at Ajax, Antony was unable to replicate his form in England and often found himself the subject of criticism from frustrated fans.

“I didn’t feel that desire to play football,” he told TNT Sports Brasil. “I needed to find myself and be happy again because playing football was always something I loved. I went through difficult times when I no longer felt that pleasure. I even always told my brother, I told him that I couldn’t take it anymore.

“They were very hard days for me. Only I know what it was like to be there at home, not having the strength to even play with my son, going days without eating, staying locked in my room.

“So, for me it was very complicated, but thank God, with the help of my family and mainly with the help of God, I managed to get ahead and today I am very happy here.”

Antony has been in excellent form since joining Betis, contributing with both goals and assists while playing a vital role in their journey to the UEFA Conference League final.

His performances have significantly boosted Manchester United’s chances of securing a profitable transfer, as interest in the winger continues to grow.

Atletico Madrid and Juventus have emerged as potential suitors, setting the stage for a possible bidding war with Betis, who are eager to make his stay permanent.

In February, Betis chief Ramon Alcaron said: “The other day the CEO of United called me. We sent them details of the player throughout the week so they can see we’re looking after their asset.

“We have very good chemistry with United and the player, who is happy here. It is a possibility that he will continue next season, why not?”

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27/05/2025
Matheus Cunha makes final decision over Man Utd transfer after Arsenal approach

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Manchester United are on the verge of finalizing a deal for Matheus Cunha, despite competition from Arsenal, according to reports from Brazil.

Cunha has been a standout performer for Wolves this season, scoring 15 goals in the Premier League, and is set to leave the club in the summer. ..Continue Reading

United have identified the 25-year-old as a key transfer target and have already begun negotiations for his signing.

Sources indicate that Cunha is eager to work under Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford.

According to Goal Brasil, Arsenal have also shown interest in securing Cunha in recent weeks, but the Brazilian forward is now close to reaching an agreement with United.

The report states that discussions over personal terms are in the final stages, with United prepared to pay his £62.5 million release clause, along with an additional £2.5 million in performance-related add-ons.

Alongside Cunha, United are also targeting Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap.

The 22-year-old, who has a £30 million relegation release clause in his contract with Ipswich, is attracting interest from Chelsea as well ahead of the summer transfer window.

Amorim is reportedly a strong admirer of Cunha and sees both him and Delap as crucial elements of his squad rebuild.

Despite uncertainty surrounding United’s future, the club has no intention of dismissing Amorim, even if his side loses to Tottenham in the Europa League final on May 21.

United’s latest setback—a 2-0 home defeat to West Ham—has left them in 16th place in the Premier League, with 39 points from 36 games.

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14/05/2025
Serhou Guirassy makes Chelsea decision

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Borussia Dortmund star Serhou Guirassy has turned down interest from Chelsea and informed club bosses he has no intention of leaving this summer, it has been claimed in the media this week.

Guirassy has been a revelation across a magnificent debut season with Dortmund, having swapped Stuttgart for the Westfalenstadion, scoring 32 goals in his opening 43 games.

His performances over the past few seasons has caught the attentions of Chelsea, who have struggled to find a goal-scorer that has the ability to score 30-plus goals a season ever since the days of Diego Costa and Didier Drogba.

The transfer window means that the Blues hope to bring in greater support for Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer in the goalscoring department and Guirassy finds himself on a shortlist of possible targets at Stamford Bridge, along with the likes of Liam Delap, Benjamin Sesko and Hugo Ekitike.

However, Bild suggests the Blues will be forced to look elsewhere for a new centre-forward given Guirassy has ‘clearly committed’ his future to Dortmund for next season.

Reporter Iomie Stanley told icfootballnews: ‘If this is true, if Guirassy has decided that he would like to stay in the Bundesliga rather than coming to the Premier League at this stage of his career, it is probably the right decision to make.

‘His style suits the Bundesliga, it suits Dortmund and he could really struggle to make an sort of impact on the Premier League in that Chelsea side, who play a completely different way to the German side.

‘Chelsea will probably sign a new striker in the summer window, they would be fools not too because what they have right now is solid, but not good enough.

‘It will be interesting to see what Enzo Maresca gets, but Guirassy is a player that is right for the Bundesliga and not the Premier League.

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09/05/2025