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Lionel Messi names Chelsea, Liverpool & Brighton players in 10 of world’s best young fotballers

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The iconic attacker highlighted the young athletes he believes are the ‘future of football’ as part of a promotional effort with Adidas. ..Continue Reading

Young Premier League stars are among those chosen, likely gaining a confidence boost from being acknowledged by someone widely regarded as the GOAT.

Liverpool’s 17-year-old prospect Rio Ngumoha features on Messi’s list, alongside Chelsea’s midfield talent Andrey Santos.

One more Chelsea player received recognition from the Inter Miami icon—Kendry Paez, currently on loan at Strasbourg, is also included.

Rounding out the Premier League names, Brighton’s German midfielder Brajan Gruda has been identified as one of the top young players.

Messi’s other male selections include Rodrigo Mora from Porto, Belgian forward Mika Godts of Ajax, Como’s Nico Paz, and Renne’s teenage talent Kader Meite.

Among the female athletes, Messi spotlighted Lyon’s Lily Yohannes and Barcelona’s Clara Serrajordi as future stars.

This isn’t the first occasion Messi has highlighted rising talent, though his previous picks haven’t always proven accurate.

Back in 2015, he named 10 players who ultimately didn’t live up to the expectations.

Those earlier selections were: Accursio Bentivegna, Marcos Lopes, Kenedy, Maxwel Cornet, Jeremie Boga, James Wilson, Timo Werner, Gyasi Zardes, Khiry Shelton, and Aleksey Miranchuk.

At 38, Messi revealed this week that the Lionel Messi Cup will debut in Miami this December, featuring eight under-16 teams.

Chelsea and Manchester City will participate, along with Barcelona, Newell’s Old Boys, Inter Milan, River Plate, Atletico Madrid, and Inter Miami.

He wrote on Instagram: ‘Thrilled to finally share this with you.

‘This December, Miami will host a very special youth football tournament featuring some of the top clubs from around the world.

‘The future of the game will be on full display, and it’s more than just matches – we’ve got an incredible few days planned with lots of other exciting activities.

‘This is about the next generation. Hope you like it!’

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16/10/2025
Cole Palmer names shock Man Utd flop in his dream five-a-side team

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The Chelsea and England playmaker thrives in the small-sided format—and his teammates are likely better than yours. ..Continue Reading

That’s just how it goes. In a recent clip shared on the club’s official Instagram page, Palmer revealed his dream five-a-side lineup, and one particular inclusion is bound to spark conversation.

Palmer included himself, of course, and selected some major stars to join him.

“In net, Courtois,” said the 23-year-old, his voice barely audible over the oddly chosen lift music in the background.

“[For] the four players I’d have [Lionel] Messi, Neymar, Ravel and me.”

‘Ravel’ refers to Ravel Morrison, the 32-year-old midfielder from Palmer’s hometown of Wythenshawe. He rose through the youth system at Manchester United with immense promise but never secured a regular spot in the senior squad. Across his career, he hasn’t played more than 36 league games for any single club.

Morrison has faced legal issues and moved frequently between teams over the past 15 years.

After departing Old Trafford for West Ham United in 2012, the gifted yet inconsistent player went on to represent eight clubs permanently and had five loan stints.

His career has taken him across England, Wales, Sweden, Italy, the Netherlands, and the USA. Most recently, he featured in Dubai’s second tier for Precision FC, alongside players like Matt Lowton and Harry Arter.

The Jamaican international is currently unattached.

Despite the setbacks during his time at United, Morrison still holds a place of admiration in Sir Alex Ferguson’s eyes.

“Another thing about Ravel, which I’ve always treasured because no other young player who made their debut did it, was after the first game in the first team that he played, the next morning he came to my office and gave me a letter thanking me for giving me his debut,” Ferguson told Rio Ferdinand in 2021.

“I was gobsmacked, Rio. The boy had a good heart, he was just beaten by his background.”

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04/10/2025
Enzo Maresca names two Chelsea players not good enough to replace Colwill

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With Colwill sidelined for much of the season, Maresca made headlines by stating that neither Wesley Fofana nor Benoît Badiashile are currently good enough to fill the void left by the young England international.

Speaking to reporters, Maresca didn’t mince words. He referenced past performances to support his stance, recalling a particularly poor first half against Bournemouth where Fofana struggled in Colwill’s role.

Also a Conference League final where Badiashile’s presence coincided with Chelsea trailing before Colwill’s introduction turned the tide.

When asked if either Wesley Fofana or Benoit Badiashile could replace Colwill in the team, Maresca said: “He needs to be fit, first of all, and then he can do it.

“He played 45 minutes in that position and it was the first half against Bournemouth away if you remember – probably one of the worst halves since we started.

“Benoit playing in the middle, the Conference League final, first half, we were losing 1-0. Then we changed with Levi and we won 3-1. So it’s not the same.”

These examples, Maresca argued, highlight the irreplaceable quality Colwill brings—not just defensively, but in building play from the back.

The manager’s comments underscore a growing tension between Chelsea’s recruitment strategy and the immediate needs of the squad.

Despite a summer filled with attacking signings, Maresca insists the club must prioritize bringing in a new centre-back before the transfer window closes.

His call for reinforcements is not just about plugging a gap—it’s about maintaining the tactical integrity of a team that relies heavily on Colwill’s composure and distribution.

This public critique of Fofana and Badiashile may raise eyebrows, but it also reflects Maresca’s high standards and his unwillingness to compromise on quality.

It’s a bold move that could either galvanize the squad or create internal pressure, depending on how the players respond.

For Chelsea fans, it’s a reminder of how crucial Colwill has become to the team’s identity—and how fragile that identity may be without him.

As the season kicks off, all eyes will be on Chelsea’s defensive setup and whether the club heeds Maresca’s warning before it’s too late.

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16/08/2025
US President Donald Trump names the Premier League team he supports

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Trump, 78, was inaugurated on January 20th, in a ceremony at the United States Capitol rotunda in Washington D.C.

This marked the 60th event of its kind and Trump’s second term as president of the US. ..Continue Reading

As with many high-profile figures, people worldwide are curious about various aspects of their lives, including football fans.

So, which club does the 79-year-old support?

During a January 2018 interview with journalist and Arsenal fan Piers Morgan on ITV, the topic of football (or soccer, as Trump might call it) came up.

“The moment I invite President Trump to be Arsenal’s new manager – because he’d build a strong defensive wall, have an attacking philosophy & want to win big trophies at all costs,” Morgan tweeted in January 2018.

In the interview, Trump mentioned that his son Barron “loves” the sport. Morgan then asked if Trump was an Arsenal fan while presenting an Arsenal shirt with ‘Trump 45’ printed on the back.

“That’s beautiful, I have a son who does love this sport,” said Trump.

“And he loves Arsenal, right?” quipped Morgan.

“Are you an Arsenal fan, too?” added the British journalist.

“Not particularly, no,” replied Trump.

A disappointed Morgan then joked Trump had “killed the dream”. But, no one expected the New Yorker to hint at his support for one of Arsenal’s Premier League rivals.

“I have a friend who owns Manchester United,” revealed the US president.

The “friend” Trump mentioned was Edward Glazer, son of Malcolm Glazer, who acquired a majority stake in Manchester United for $5.4 billion in 2005.

In 2023, Edward and his five siblings sold 25 percent of their 68 percent stake to British chemical billionaire Jim Ratcliffe.

The Glazers continue to own the NFL team Tampa Bay Buccaneers, which their father purchased for $192 million in 1995, according to Forbes. Edward co-chairs the club’s board with his brothers Joel and Bryan.

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02/08/2025
Messi vs Ronaldo – Sergio Ramos names the best player football ever produced

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The debate over who is the greatest footballer of all time has raged on for years, with fans and pundits alike passionately arguing the merits of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Both players have achieved extraordinary success, breaking records and winning numerous titles.

However, when it comes to naming the best player football has ever produced, former Paris Saint-Germain defender Sergio Ramos has made his choice clear. ..Continue Reading

In an interview, Ramos, who has had the unique experience of playing alongside both Messi and Ronaldo, revealed that he considers Lionel Messi to be the greatest footballer of all time.

This admission is particularly noteworthy given Ramos’s long history with Ronaldo during their time together at Real Madrid, where they won countless trophies and formed a formidable partnership.

Ramos explained that his opinion is based on the years of “suffering” he endured while playing against Messi in La Liga.

As a defender for Real Madrid, Ramos faced Messi numerous times in the intense El Clasico matches against Barcelona.

The Spanish center-back admitted that Messi’s skill and ability to change the course of a game single-handedly made him the toughest opponent he ever faced.

Ramos expressed his admiration for Messi, stating that he enjoyed playing alongside the Argentine forward and witnessing his brilliance up close.

He described Messi as the best player football has ever produced, a sentiment echoed by many fans and experts around the world.

While Ramos’s comments may come as a disappointment to Ronaldo and his supporters, they highlight the respect and recognition that Messi has earned from one of the game’s top defenders.

Messi’s numerous Ballon d’Or awards, league titles, and recent World Cup victory with Argentina further solidify his status as one of the greatest players in football history.

The Messi vs Ronaldo debate is unlikely to be settled anytime soon, as both players continue to dazzle fans with their performances.

However, Sergio Ramos’s endorsement of Messi adds another layer to the ongoing discussion and provides a unique perspective from someone who has played alongside both legends.

In conclusion, while the debate over the greatest footballer of all time may never be definitively resolved, Sergio Ramos’s admiration for Lionel Messi offers a compelling argument in favor of the Argentine maestro.

As fans, we can only appreciate the incredible talent and achievements of both Messi and Ronaldo, who have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the beautiful game.

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18/06/2025
Randal Kolo Muani names his preferred transfer destination amidst interest from Manchester United – Man United News And Transfer News

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French striker Randal Kolo Muani has indicated a desire to continue at Juventus and make his stay at the club permanent, even as he continues to be linked to Manchester United.

United are actively searching for a new, dependable striker following another challenging season for Rasmus Hojlund. The Dane notched just four Premier League clubs as the club finished a lowly 15th place, having suffered 18 defeats.

There are strong rumours that Hojlund is on his way out of Old Trafford, with Inter Milan strongly interested in signing him. United identified Liam Delap as their top choice to replace Hojlund but the England youth international snubbed the Red Devils in favour of joining Chelsea.

United have been forced to explore deals for alternative targets and Kolo Muani is understood to feature on their list.

Kolo Muani sealed a loan move to Juventus in January after struggling for minutes at Paris Saint-Germain. He enjoyed an uptick in fortunes at Juventus, scoring eight goals and providing one assist in 16 appearances.

Juventus don’t have an option to keep Kolo Muani permanently, so they will need to reopen talks with PSG to secure his services. Their pursuit is further complicated by strong interest from United, who are also keen on the player.

However, the 26-year-old has made it clear that he hopes to stay at Juventus.

He spoke to L’Equipe [via GOAL] and remarked, “I’m very happy to have been able to play a little more, whether for the national team or for my club.”

“I’m very happy at Juventus, I hope to continue there. They welcomed me well, and I’m enjoying it.”

“I’m going with them to the Club World Cup.”

It remains unclear if Juventus will match PSG’s demands, though the player’s stated preference is a significant dent in United’s transfer plans.

Kolo Muani’s contract with PSG runs until 2028.

Feature image Mike Hewitt via Getty Images

Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

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10/06/2025
Leny Yoro names shock player as ‘toughest striker’ he’s ever faced

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Despite being early in his career, Yoro has already tested himself against some of football’s biggest names, including Erling Haaland, Alexander Isak, and Kylian Mbappe. ..Continue Reading

At just 19 years old, the French center-back has many more challenges ahead, but he has already developed a strong appreciation for Lacazette’s skill and experience.

With Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee struggling to meet expectations at Old Trafford, Yoro might welcome the arrival of a top-class striker at United.

Before his £52 million move from Lille, Yoro had only completed one full season of senior football with his hometown club.

His latest encounter with Lacazette came in the second leg of United’s Europa League quarter-final against Lyon in April, marking their fifth meeting.

Lacazette has managed to score four times in those matchups, leaving a lasting impression on the young defender.

‘The toughest striker [I’ve faced]? I would say Lacazette, even in Ligue 1. He was very good,’ Yoro told Rising Ballers.

‘He’s got a lot of experience because he played Premier League and Ligue 1.

‘And his positioning in games, sometimes it’s difficult for defenders, always in your back.’

Yoro opened his account for Man United in the first leg of the team’s quarter-final with Lyon, directing home Manuel Ugarte’s effort with a precise header from close range.

‘Honestly, I was not ready to score!’ Yoro joked when looking back on the 2-2 draw at Lyon’s Groupama Stadium.

‘But I didn’t want to celebrate because I wanted to play quick to try to win the game.

‘I was really happy because my family was there and after the game, they said they were really happy for me and proud so it was good.’

Going forward, Yoro wants to add another string to his bow by bringing more ‘aggression’ to his game.

Asked which area he most needs to improve, Yoro said: ‘Maybe I would say, sometimes, my aggression, being more aggressive.

‘With the ball, I need to improve, of course, but I think I’m good so maybe, sometimes, I need to be more aggressive.’

Yoro sees his long-term future at Old Trafford and is desperate to start adding major trophies to his collection sooner rather than later.

Quizzed on where he sees himself in five years’ time, he responded: ‘I hope I will stay here, for sure, in Manchester.

‘[Hopefully] I can say that I’ve won some titles and something has changed, maybe I have a child.’

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05/06/2025
Enzo Fernandez names the player he wants Chelsea to sign this summer

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The Blues have been linked with several potential signings as manager Enzo Maresca looks to strengthen the squad ahead of next season. ..Continue Reading

Reports suggest Chelsea are eager to bring in a new striker, and Fernandez has expressed his desire for the club to target Julian Alvarez from La Liga.

Fernandez shares a close bond with Alvarez, having played alongside him for Argentina and during their early years at River Plate.

Alvarez previously spent two seasons in the Premier League with Manchester City before making the switch to Atletico Madrid.

Since joining the Spanish club, Alvarez has delivered an impressive return, scoring 29 goals and providing six assists in 53 appearances.

Fernandez, asked in a Gaston Edul interview which of his international teammates he’d most like the Blues to sign this summer, said: ‘Julian.

‘I talk to Julian often, even more so now. We’ve shared youth teams, the reserve team, the national team, River Plate.

‘There is no longer any discussion about what a great player he is, and he has proven it with his goals.’

Fernandez has been linked with a potential move away from Chelsea this summer, with Real Madrid reportedly interested, though he is said to be content at Stamford Bridge.

The midfielder has expressed his admiration for Spanish football, hinting that he might consider a switch to La Liga at some point in the future.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are actively monitoring several attacking options, including Victor Osimhen, who recently declined an offer from Juventus.

The club is also reportedly interested in Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, who has drawn attention from multiple Premier League teams.

Former manager Harry Redknapp has backed Chelsea to outmaneuver Manchester United and Arsenal in the race to sign Delap.

‘I’ve heard that Chelsea are quite hot on Liam Delap – I could see him going to Stamford Bridge this summer,’ Redknapp told BetVictor.

‘I also wonder if Arsenal would take a chance on him too because they’re also looking for a striker – he could definitely be worth a gamble.

‘I would say Delap is an upgrade on Nicolas Jackson if Chelsea were to move for him. Jackson has shown flashes this season but hasn’t been at his best since coming back from injury.

‘Signing Delap would at least give Chelsea that option of switching it round if things aren’t going well for them in games.’

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23/05/2025
Ferdinand names four players Man Utd should never have sold

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The Red Devils have suffered a major fall from grace since Ferguson walked away in 2013 and currently find themselves just 16th in the Premier League table. .Continue Reading

Poor displays on the pitch have been mirrored by questionable decisions off it, with billions worth of talent coming and going from the club.

A number of signings have failed to deliver but Ferdinand believes some questionable sales have been just as damaging to Man United.

The former England defender was disappointed by United’s decision to sell Danny Welbeck and Javier Hernandez and full-back siblings Rafael and Fabio da Silva.

Welbeck came through United’s academy and was closing in on his 150th first-team appearance before being sold to Arsenal in 2014.

The former underwhelmed for Arsenal but has enjoyed the best period of his career in his 30s and Ferdinand believes he would still be starting for his boyhood team United.

Hernandez was a consistent performer in his five-year spell at Old Trafford and helped Ferguson win two Premier League titles before the Mexico goalscorer was sold in 2014.

Rafael and Fabio da Silva were also sold after Ferguson’s retirement in decision that also left Ferdinand scratching his head.

Discussing Man United’s transfer strategy in recent years, Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel: ‘There’s players I would have kept.

‘Danny Welbeck, Chicharito, Rafael de Silva, Fabio de Silva. Has anyone come into those positions and done better than what they would have done?

‘There’s no full-backs who have come in and done much better than Rafael or Fabio.

‘When I heard we were letting Chicharito go, I thought, “what am I hearing here?” When I heard him and Welbeck were going, I couldn’t believe it.

‘I was like, “What? Why?“ Those were great squad players but could have become starters when a few of the bigger and older players were leaving.

‘The generation was changing and I could see a place for them at the club.

‘You’re letting Chicharito go when he’s scoring mad amount of goals on a regular basis, Welbeck is impacting games with and without the ball. Look at Welbeck now, what United would do to have him in the team now.’

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20/05/2025
Carlo Ancelotti names three most unforgettable games as Real Madrid manager

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Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has reflected on his three most memorable matches from his two spells in charge at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Speaking ahead of Real Madrid’s highly anticipated LaLiga clash against Barcelona on Sunday, Ancelotti shared his thoughts during a pre-match press conference. ..Continue Reading

The Italian tactician is widely expected to depart Los Blancos at the end of the season, marking the conclusion of his latest tenure with the club.

Ancelotti is set to take over as Brazil’s national team coach, while Xabi Alonso has emerged as a strong candidate to succeed him at Madrid.

Speaking about the most unforgettable matches at Madrid, Ancelotti said (via Madrid Xtra): “The three most unforgettable games at Real Madrid? Lisbon 2014, Paris 2022, London 2024. It’s not difficult.”

Ancelotti is often hailed as the greatest manager in UEFA Champions League history, having amassed an unprecedented five titles.

The 65-year-old has secured two of these trophies with AC Milan and three with Real Madrid, solidifying his legacy as a master of European football.

Interestingly, the three matches he highlighted as his most unforgettable moments all come from Champions League finals during his time at Madrid.

Ancelotti guided Los Blancos to victory against Atletico Madrid in 2014, Liverpool in 2022, and Borussia Dortmund in 2024, cementing his status as one of football’s most accomplished tacticians.

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11/05/2025