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'Street-smart' Vázquez: A fine contrast to Frimpong
Compared to his predecessor Jeremie Frimpong, he offers a clear contrast. In his debut for Bayer, Lucas Vázquez played less spectacularly but no less effectively – and is expected to pass on his experience to his teammates.
Shaky defense: Sommer looks flat, Akanji loses focus. Inter, so many gaps
Inter’s back line was supposed to be rejuvenated, but that hasn’t happened. And the Swiss goalkeeper has kept a clean sheet in only one match.
FIFA does not understand the presence of a coach on the refereeing appointment committee
FIFA is closely monitoring reforms in Spain’s refereeing system. While it welcomed transparency measures, it strongly questioned LaLiga’s appointment of coach Gregorio Manzano to the referee designation committee, breaking with the tradition of using only former referees.
Arda Güler’s leap: from the frustrating number 142 to untouchable under Xabi
At just twenty, Arda Güler returns to the Champions League as a starter for Real Madrid. From frustration and waiting on the sidelines to Xabi Alonso’s trust and a budding partnership with Mbappé, the Turkish midfielder has become a source of pride for his country and a new creative force for Madrid’s European ambitions.
Back pain, Lautaro skips training session and is doubtful for the Ajax match
Inter face Ajax in their Champions League opener with doubts over Lautaro Martínez, who skipped training due to back pain but still traveled with the squad. Darmian is ruled out, while Chivu weighs tactical changes and the possibility of starting Bonny or Pio Esposito alongside Thuram.
Renan Lodi unilaterally terminates his contract with Al Hilal
Renan Lodi unilaterally ends his contract with Al Hilal after being excluded from the Saudi Pro League squad. The Brazilian left-back cites legal support for his decision, while the club threatens legal action. Now a free agent, Lodi could return to Europe or South America, but his next step may be influenced by a looming legal dispute.
Chelsea take advantage of UEFA’s new rule and make a change to their Champions League squad
Chelsea register Facundo Buonanotte for the Champions League, taking advantage of UEFA’s new injury-replacement rule after Dário Essugo’s thigh surgery. The Argentine talent joins the squad ahead of Wednesday’s clash with Bayern Munich.
City lets slip the chance to hurt United even more in the Manchester derby
The first Manchester Derby of this season went to Manchester City on Sunday. At their own Etihad Stadium, Pep Guardiola’s team was dominant against arch-rivals Manchester United. And it was a very welcome victory for the blue side of the city.
Two squad surprises at Juve – Will Openda annoy Dortmund again?
A Juventus duo has surprisingly made it into the squad for today’s home game against Dortmund. Meanwhile, new signing Lois Openda is eyeing a debut.
FIFA sets aside 300 million euros for clubs of World Cup players
FIFA will allocate 300 million euros to clubs supplying players for the 2026 World Cup, including those involved in qualifiers. The expanded Club Benefits Programme nearly doubles the payout from Qatar 2022 and aims to strengthen ties with clubs globally.