London: Former France international and Cristiano Ronaldo’s ex-teammate at Manchester United, Louis Saha, has publicly voiced his desire to see the Portuguese superstar return to the English club. Saha believes that Ronaldo still holds a deep passion and sincerity towards Manchester United, and suggested that the 39-year-old could return in a different role, such as a coach or a manager.
Ronaldo’s second stint at Manchester United was marked by challenges, contrasting sharply with his first tenure at the club. During his first period at United, Ronaldo experienced immense success, becoming a superstar. However, upon his return, he found that the enthusiasm and fighting spirit he once received from his teammates were lacking. Saha emphasized that Ronaldo should adopt a different approach to communication and leadership, moving away from his previously intense demeanor. Instead, he should focus on leveraging his vast experience for the benefit of the club's success.
Ronaldo originally rose to prominence at Manchester United, where he played from 2003 to 2009, scoring 84 goals in 196 appearances. Afterward, he moved to Spanish giants Real Madrid, where he became one of the world’s best players, netting 292 goals in 311 matches until 2018. Following a successful stint at Juventus from 2018 to 2021, Ronaldo returned to Manchester United. However, his second spell was marred by issues, particularly with manager Erik ten Hag, leading to the mutual termination of his contract. Ronaldo then moved to Saudi club Al Nassr, where he continues his football career.
Endrick to Leave Real Madrid on Loan?
Madrid: Brazilian wonderkid Endrick is reportedly considering leaving Real Madrid on loan during the upcoming January transfer window. Real Madrid secured the signing of Endrick alongside Kylian Mbappé during the recent summer transfer window. While Mbappé has already made his debut for the club, Endrick is still waiting for his first official match.
The fierce competition for forward positions at Real Madrid is said to be the primary reason for Endrick's potential departure. With star players like Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé, Rodrygo, Arda Güler, Brahim Díaz, and Jude Bellingham already competing for spots in the attacking lineup, Endrick finds himself struggling to break into the first team. Although he featured in pre-season friendly matches against teams like AC Milan and Barcelona, he failed to make a significant impact.
Endrick's contract with Real Madrid runs until 2030, but the club is expected to make a decision regarding his loan move in December.
Mbappé Files Complaint Against PSG Over Unpaid Wages
Paris: Kylian Mbappé has lodged a complaint against his former club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), demanding payment of three months' worth of unpaid wages and bonuses totaling 55 million euros. The French forward claims that PSG owes him salary for April, May, and June. Mbappé has taken his case to the legal department of the French Professional Football League (LFP), which stipulates that clubs must pay players by the end of each month.
Under French football regulations, if a player’s wages are not paid on time, the matter must be reported to UEFA by the French Football Federation. Mbappé's complaint comes just weeks after he left PSG to join Spanish giants Real Madrid. The French national team captain, who spent seven years at PSG, is the club’s all-time leading goal-scorer, having netted 256 goals and provided 108 assists in 308 appearances.
German Captain Ilkay Gündoğan Retires from International Football
Berlin: Germany’s national football team captain, Ilkay Gündoğan, has announced his retirement from international football. Gündoğan, who earned 82 caps and scored 19 goals for Germany since making his debut in 2011, revealed that he has been contemplating retirement for several weeks. The 33-year-old midfielder also announced his decision to leave Barcelona at the end of the current season.
Gündoğan expressed pride in his international career, particularly in leading Germany during the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament held on home soil earlier this year. However, he admitted that physical discomforts before the tournament prompted him to consider stepping down from international duty.
During his club career, Gündoğan played for Borussia Dortmund in Germany and Manchester City in England before joining Barcelona. At Dortmund, he scored 10 goals in 106 appearances, and at Manchester City, he netted 44 goals in 188 matches. Since joining Barcelona, Gündoğan has scored five goals in 36 appearances.
Argentina Announces World Cup Qualifying Squad Without Lionel Messi
Buenos Aires: Argentina has announced its squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers in September, notably excluding team captain Lionel Messi. The decision comes after Messi sustained an injury during the Copa América tournament final. Messi’s absence marks the first time in two years that Argentina will compete without their talisman.
The squad also sees the continued absence of forward Paulo Dybala, who failed to secure a spot in the national team once again. Under the leadership of coach Lionel Scaloni, Argentina will face Chile on September 6 and Colombia on September 9 in the World Cup qualifying round. Argentina currently tops the qualifying table, having won all five of their matches so far.
Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martínez, Walter Benítez, Jerónimo Rulli, Juan Musso.
Defenders: Gonzalo Montiel, Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Germán Pezzella, Leonardo Balerdi, Nicolás Otamendi, Lisandro Martínez, Nicolás Tagliafico, Valentín Barco.
Midfielders: Leandro Paredes, Guido Rodríguez, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández, Giovani Lo Celso, Exequiel Fernández, Rodrigo De Paul.
Forwards: Nicolás González, Alejandro Garnacho, Matías Soulé, Giuliano Simeone, Valentín Carboni, Julián Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez, Valentín Castellanos.
Premier League Champions Manchester City Start Season with a Win, Defeat Chelsea
London: Reigning Premier League champions Manchester City began their title defense with a solid victory, defeating Chelsea 2-0 at Stamford Bridge. Goals from Erling Haaland and Mateo Kovačić secured the win for City, marking a strong start to their campaign.
Despite the loss, Chelsea put up a commendable fight against the champions. However, City took the lead in the 18th minute when Haaland, assisted by Bernardo Silva, broke through Chelsea’s defense to score. Chelsea responded with vigor but failed to find the back of the net.
In the second half, both teams continued to attack, but it was City who doubled their lead in the 84th minute. Kovačić, a former Chelsea player, scored a stunning goal, beating Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez to secure the victory for City.
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