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Players must be on international duty on December 15
FIFA has issued a statement to the national federations to prepare the release of the players who will take part in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), between December 21 and January 18.
Almeyda, his staunch defence of Alexis and the call from Chile
Matías Almeyda strongly defended Alexis from recent criticism, highlighting his effort, low salary and love for the game, and revealed that he was close to coaching Chile during the pandemic but a high release clause blocked the move, turning it into a family disappointment.
The sacrifice of Lamine at Barça
Lamine Yamal is evolving from a pure attacking talent into a complete winger at Barcelona. Under Hansi Flick he has hugely improved his defensive work and pressing, while still leading the league in dribbles, assists and final passes, confirming his status as one of the most decisive young players in world football.
Mbappé is on his way to making history, just as Ronaldo did
Xabi Alonso believes Kylian Mbappé is on track to make history at Real Madrid just like Cristiano Ronaldo, praising the French forward’s ambition, numbers and leadership while stressing that both stars are exceptional in their own unique way.
Yamal is fouled in 90 percent of cases but wants to keep going
Hansi Flick heaps praise on 18-year-old Lamine Yamal ahead of Barcelona’s trip to Betis, highlighting his defensive work, attacking impact and fearless mentality, with seven goals and eight assists already this season.
League leaders Arsenal lose at Villa Park after a goal in the very last second
Arsenal have suffered a last-gasp defeat away to Aston Villa. Substitute Emiliano Buendía smashed in the 2-1 in the very last second of the match, after a spectacular goalmouth scramble.
English media harsh on sleepwalking Liverpool
Jamie Carragher has serious concerns about the current state of Liverpool. In his view, Arne Slot’s team took another step backwards against Sunderland. The English media are also critical of the struggling champions, with Virgil van Dijk playing a negative leading role.
Toppmöller responds to the criticism – Eintracht with the most away goals
Eintracht coach Dino Toppmöller showed understanding for the recent criticism at the press conference before the away game in Leipzig, but also pointed to some positive aspects. In midfield, a duo is close to returning to the squad.
Neymar helps Santos in the relegation battle with his first hat-trick since 2022
Neymar scored his first hat-trick in three years in the night from Wednesday to Thursday. Thanks to the goals of their 33-year-old star player, Santos beat relegation strugglers Juventude and are now virtually certain of staying in Brazil’s top flight.
Slot responds to Salah’s reserve role and the battle for Gakpo’s place at Liverpool
Mohamed Salah’s role as a substitute at Liverpool is currently a much discussed topic in England. The experienced Egyptian has been dropped from the starting line up for two games in a row, but he still has an influential role at the Reds.