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Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t hesitate when naming who should win the Ballon d’Or out of Yamal & Dembele

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The two stars are leading contenders for the award after delivering exceptional performances for both club and country. ..Continue Reading

Yamal and Dembele faced off in the UEFA Nations League semi-final between Spain and France, where Yamal stole the spotlight with a brace in Spain’s thrilling victory.

After playing a key role in Spain’s recent international success, another strong performance could further strengthen Yamal’s case to become the youngest-ever Ballon d’Or winner.

The 17-year-old sensation was instrumental in Barcelona’s league and cup victories, contributing numerous goals and assists throughout the season.

Meanwhile, Dembele remains a strong contender after enjoying the best campaign of his career, scoring consistently and helping Paris Saint-Germain secure a major European title.

Ronaldo, a multiple-time Ballon d’Or winner, has now weighed in on the debate, outlining his personal criteria for selecting the rightful recipient of football’s most prestigious individual honor.

Speaking in a press conference ahead of the Nations League final between Portugal and Spain, Ronaldo said: “The individual awards have lost some consensus; I can’t say anything about who should win. In my opinion, those who stand out and win the Champions League should win.

“But there is no consensus. I don’t believe much in individual awards because I know what goes on behind the scenes. Lamine could win, like Dembele or Vitinha, other emerging players… But individual awards are irrelevant.”

The showdown at the Allianz Arena marks the first time Ronaldo will face Lamine Yamal, who is 23 years his junior and was only a year old when Ronaldo claimed his first Ballon d’Or.

Reflecting on his own rise to stardom at Manchester United, Ronaldo advised the media to avoid placing excessive expectations on Yamal as he continues to develop.

“Lamine Yamal? I ask you to let the boy grow for the good of football,” he stated.

“Let him grow calmly and take the pressure off him. You can help him by leaving him alone because he doesn’t lack talent.”

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09/06/2025
The final 2024/25 Premier League table if every VAR ‘error’ was erased

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Despite its goal of providing clear-cut rulings, the system’s inconsistency and subjective interpretations have prevented it from fully achieving that purpose.

Even with the season now concluded, VAR remains a hot topic. Throughout the campaign, Squawka engaged fans in discussions about whether the technology had correctly handled key decisions. ..Continue Reading

Now that the Premier League season has ended, they have revealed how the standings would have looked if VAR had ensured every call was flawless.

Arsenal, initially expected to challenge for the title, saw their hopes fade well before the final matchday.

However, Squawka’s findings suggest that officiating controversies may have widened the gap at the top more than necessary.

Mikel Arteta’s side faced three contentious red card incidents, including one where VAR upgraded William Saliba’s yellow card against Bournemouth to a dismissal.

Had those decisions gone differently—or if VAR had not intervened—the Gunners might have finished just two points behind the champions instead of ten.

This shift comes from Arsenal gaining five additional points while Liverpool lost three.

The top four remains unchanged in terms of the teams occupying those spots, with Manchester City and Chelsea securing third and fourth place, but there is a significant shake-up in fifth position.

Nottingham Forest have long voiced their frustrations with VAR, and this season has given them even more reason to feel aggrieved.

Without controversial officiating errors, they would have secured the final Champions League spot, pushing Newcastle and Aston Villa down a place each.

Brentford, meanwhile, had an impressive campaign despite losing their star striker Ivan Toney. Bryan Mbeumo’s 20-goal haul and key contributions from Yoane Wissa helped Thomas Frank’s side finish 10th.

However, they should have placed even higher, with VAR decisions costing them crucial points.

Had officiating been flawless, Brentford would have ended the season with 60 points instead of 56, securing eighth place and coming within touching distance of UEFA Conference League qualification.

This adjustment would have also seen Brighton and Bournemouth drop further down the table.

Brentford suffered four unfavorable VAR calls without a single decision going their way, a ratio only worse for Arsenal and Aston Villa. In contrast, Brighton benefited from five favorable calls while avoiding any setbacks.

Elsewhere, Crystal Palace’s FA Cup-winning season could have been even sweeter, as they would have overtaken Fulham in the standings.

Manchester United’s struggles were further highlighted by VAR’s impact. Without officiating errors, Wolves—Matheus Cunha’s former club—would have finished above United, making his move to Old Trafford seem like a step down.

Wolves would have climbed to 14th, leaving United stuck in 15th, while Tottenham would have gained an extra place to move up to 16th.

The biggest losers in this scenario were West Ham United, who would have ended up just above the relegation zone.

Among the relegated teams, the standings wouldn’t have changed much, except for Ipswich Town, who would have edged above Ruud van Nistelrooy’s Leicester into 18th. While not a major shift, it would have slightly improved their merit payment.

VAR’s influence on the season has once again sparked debate, with clubs left wondering how different things could have been without its interference.

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03/06/2025
Mbappe breaks his silence on PSG winning the Champions League after he left club

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The French forward departed PSG last summer, making a high-profile move to Real Madrid on a free transfer. ..Continue Reading

Since his exit, Luis Enrique’s squad has continued their dominance in France, clinching another Ligue 1 title and now adding the prestigious Champions League trophy to their collection.

PSG delivered a commanding performance in Munich, with Desire Doue netting twice, while Achraf Hakimi, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Senny Mayulu also found the back of the net.

Mbappe, who was closely following the match, took to social media to congratulate his former teammates on their historic achievement.

Taking to Instagram, he wrote: “The big day has finally arrived. Victory and with the manner of a whole club. Congratulations, PSG.”

Speaking ahead of the match, Dembele refuted claims that PSG are a ‘better team’ without Mbappe, amid contrasts between their current playing style and that of the time when they had Messi, Neymar and Mbappe as their front three.

He told reporters: “Is the game easier without Mbappe? No. Maybe with him we would have been even better this season.

“Mbappe had a dream in his career to play at Real Madrid… and PSG continued on its path. There is a before and an after Kylian.”

Mbappe is now setting his sights on securing Champions League glory with Real Madrid next season.

The Spanish giants have strengthened their squad with the arrivals of Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool and Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth.

Additionally, Xabi Alonso has taken over as head coach, replacing Carlo Ancelotti.

Alonso’s primary challenge will be to restore Real Madrid’s dominance in European football, beginning with the Club World Cup this summer and culminating in next season’s Champions League campaign.

Mbappe will be eager to play a key role in achieving both of these ambitions.

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02/06/2025
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
The Truth About Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ Goal

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He scored during the 1986 FIFA World Cup quarter-final between Argentina and England, this goal became a symbol of both Maradona’s genius and the complex dynamics of the game.

On June 22, 1986, at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Argentina faced England in a match that would go down in history for its dramatic events…Continue Reading

The stakes were high, and tensions were running even higher due to the recent Falklands War between the two nations. The game was intensely contested, but what happened in the 51st minute is what made it unforgettable.

The Goal

Maradona’s first goal, famously known as the ‘Hand of God,’ was a result of a clear act of cheating. As a cross was delivered into the box, Maradona used his left hand to punch the ball into the net.

The referees, positioned poorly and unable to see the infraction, allowed the goal to stand. Maradona later claimed that the goal was scored a little “with his head, and a little with the hand of God,” thus giving the controversial goal its iconic name.

???? On this day in 1986, Diego Maradona did the “hand of god” ????????pic.twitter.com/aE6OTL02dx

— Sportive23 (@Sportive_23) June 22, 2022

The Controversy

The controversy surrounding the ‘Hand of God’ goal stems from the clear breach of the rules. According to the Laws of the Game, any use of the hand or arm to control the ball is an infringement.

Despite this, Maradona’s goal was allowed to stand, much to the dismay of English fans and players.

The situation was exacerbated by the fact that Maradona had been an outstanding player throughout the match and had scored another brilliant goal shortly after, often overshadowing the ‘Hand of God’ incident.

Maradona’s Legacy

The ‘Hand of God’ goal, while controversial, is only one part of Maradona’s legacy. His second goal in that match, often referred to as the ‘Goal of the Century,’ was a stunning display of skill and creativity as he dribbled past multiple English defenders to score. This goal is celebrated as one of the greatest in World Cup history, showcasing Maradona’s extraordinary talent.

Maradona’s overall impact on football remains profound. Despite the controversy, his performances in the 1986 World Cup were pivotal in securing Argentina’s victory, and his ability to influence games with both skill and cunning made him one of the sport’s greatest icons.

Conclusion

Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ goal is a reminder of the human elements in sports—error, controversy, and the occasional bending of rules. It also highlights the significance of the moments of brilliance that define great players.

While the goal itself was an example of bending the rules, Maradona’s contribution to football remains immense and his legacy, complex but undeniable.

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31/05/2025
Newcastle United Leading the Race for Lazio Midfielder Matteo Guendouzi

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Newcastle United are reportedly frontrunners to secure the signature of French midfielder Matteo Guendouzi from Lazio in the upcoming summer transfer window.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport via Sport Witness, the 26-year-old has emerged as a top target for Eddie Howe’s side as they search for a dynamic box-to-box midfielder to bolster their engine room. Lazio are believed to be open to selling Guendouzi, but only for a fee in the region of €40 million.

Guendouzi’s Revival Sparks Premier League Interest

Once a promising youngster at Arsenal, Guendouzi has reignited his career in Italy. After a successful spell at Marseille, Lazio initially brought him in on loan in 2023 before making the move permanent last summer. Since then, he’s been a mainstay in the Biancocelesti midfield, clocking over 4,000 minutes in 48 appearances and contributing one goal and five assists.

His consistent performances in Serie A haven’t gone unnoticed, drawing interest from several clubs across Europe. But Newcastle are said to be in pole position, thanks to their ambition and a clear midfield need.

Perfect Fit for the Magpies?

With uncertainty looming over the futures of Sean Longstaff and Joe Willock, Newcastle are eyeing reinforcements that can provide depth and quality. Guendouzi, with his Premier League experience and renewed form, fits the bill perfectly.

Lazio’s failure to qualify for the Champions League could pave the way for a summer exit. Whether this is Guendouzi’s return to England or a move for leverage in contract talks remains to be seen—but Newcastle appear ready to pounce.

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31/05/2025
Key Liverpool star confirms he will leave the club this summer

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The club has had an outstanding season, securing the Premier League title in Arne Slot’s first year as manager.

Slot faced the challenging task of succeeding Jurgen Klopp but quickly earned the trust of the Liverpool supporters. ..Continue Reading

With preparations underway for the transfer window, Liverpool is expected to make significant moves to strengthen the squad.

Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to depart when his contract ends, with a move to Real Madrid anticipated.

Meanwhile, Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, and Milos Kerkez have all been strongly linked with a switch to Anfield.

Following Liverpool’s draw against Crystal Palace, second-choice goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher appeared to signal his intention to leave the club.

He said to Optus Sport: “I think I’ve said it before as well that I feel like I’m good enough to be a number one.

“I feel like I’m good enough to play week in, week out – and that’s what I’m looking to do.”

Kelleher added: “This season I was lucky enough to play a lot of games, but it’s definitely something I’m looking at.”

Caoimhin Kelleher has frequently stepped in as Liverpool’s backup goalkeeper behind Alisson Becker, proving to be a dependable option when called upon.

Throughout the latest season, he featured in multiple matches across various competitions, delivering solid performances and securing several clean sheets.

In recent months, speculation about his future has intensified, with several clubs—including Chelsea, West Ham United, and Newcastle United—reportedly interested in securing his services.

His situation has been under discussion ever since Liverpool finalized a deal to bring in Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia.

The Georgian goalkeeper is expected to compete for the starting role next season, potentially reshaping Liverpool’s goalkeeping hierarchy.

Speaking recently, Mamardashvili said: “They are looking at me as the Liverpool goalkeeper for the next ten years. So my next step will be the same as it was in Valencia, that I go and prove myself and show what I can do.

“The main thing is patience, training, and hard work. Everything else will come. I’m not considering another loan. I will spend next season at Liverpool, I think it will be good and training with Alisson will help me grow and gain experience.”

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28/05/2025
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
Ruben Amorim fires back at Garnacho after ‘throwing him under the bus’

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Following Manchester United’s loss to Tottenham in Bilbao, speculation surrounding Garnacho’s future at Old Trafford intensified. ..Continue Reading

The Argentine winger was left on the bench as Amorim opted for Mason Mount and Amad Diallo in the attacking midfield roles behind Rasmus Hojlund.

Garnacho was introduced late in the game and quickly tested Guglielmo Vicario with a shot on target.

Despite featuring in every previous knockout round of the competition, Garnacho was overlooked for a starting role, having also started many of United’s Premier League matches this season.

‘There were a lot of things missing – when you don’t score goals, you always need more at the end,’ Garnacho told the Argentine media after the match.

‘I played every round until we reached the final, I helped the team, and to play twenty minutes today… I don’t know.’

Garnacho’s brother, Roberto, took to Instagram to criticize Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, accusing him of unfairly sidelining the young winger.

Mason Mount, whom Amorim has consistently praised since taking charge at United, cemented his place in the starting lineup with an impressive performance in the semi-final against Athletic Bilbao, scoring twice to help secure the team’s spot in the final.

After the match, Garnacho spoke to the Argentine media, expressing his frustration over his limited role.

In that same semi-final, Garnacho squandered a golden opportunity in a one-on-one situation with the goalkeeper—a moment Amorim referenced when justifying his selection choices for the final.

‘Some players come in, like Mason Mount, against Bilbao and changed the game,’ Amorim said in his post-match press conference.

‘So now it is easy to say. Who missed the big opportunity in the first half against Bilbao? Garnacho.

‘Of course, now it is easy for us to talk about a lot of views. I just look at the game and try to manage things and improve the team and try to win games.

‘I can see it both ways. I remember everything about the past so it is easy for me to respond to that question.’

Garnacho was dropped from the United squad in December but forced his way back into the first-team at the turn of the year with Amorim praising his determination and eagerness to adapt to his system.

But the player’s post-match comments last night have now cast huge doubt on his future.

When asked about his future, Garnacho said: ‘The game has an impact, but the season itself, the club’s situation… I’m going to try to enjoy the summer and see what happens next.’

Chelsea and Napoli both showed interest in signing the Argentine winger during the January transfer window.

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22/05/2025
Man Utd Leading the Race to Land Brazilian Midfield Dynamo Ederson

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Manchester United are reportedly in pole position to sign Atalanta’s dynamic Brazilian midfielder Ederson, as they prepare to revamp their midfield for the upcoming season.

The Red Devils have tracked the 24-year-old for over a year, and after narrowly missing out on him last summer, they’re ready to launch a renewed push. With the Europa League final looming, United are expected to step up their pursuit of Ederson once the curtain falls on the current campaign.

According to fresh reports, United are currently ahead of both Manchester City and Juventus in the race, and Atalanta are bracing themselves for a serious offer. However, the Serie A side won’t let him leave on the cheap — a fee in the region of £50 million is believed to be the starting point.

United’s midfield rebuild has been a key focus, with last summer’s signing of Manuel Ugarte offering some solidity. But Erik ten Hag’s side clearly see Ederson as a long-term upgrade who can bring flair, aggression, and control in the centre of the park.

Having previously sold Rasmus Hojlund and Amad Diallo to United, Atalanta have done business with the Premier League giants before — but don’t expect any discounts this time around.

Could Ederson be the missing piece in United’s midfield puzzle? Stay tuned.

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20/05/2025