Sources: U.S. investors eye Genoa ownership bid
Serie A club Genoa's existing owners are seeking up to €170 million ($180m) to sell the club, sources have told ESPN. Serie A club Genoa's existing owners are seeking up to €170 million ($180m) to sell the club, sources have told ESPN. Serie A club Genoa's existing...
Romania awarded win over Kosovo after walk-off
Romania awarded win over Kosovo after walk-off
Romania have been awarded a 3-0 victory over Kosovo after their Nations League match in Bucharest was abandoned, UEFA said on Wednesday.
Romania have been awarded a 3-0 victory over Kosovo after their Nations League match in Bucharest was abandoned, UEFA said on Wednesday. Romania have been awarded a 3-0 victory over Kosovo after their Nations League match in Bucharest was abandoned, UEFA said on Wednesday.
Romania have been awarded a 3-0 victory over Kosovo after their Nations League match in Bucharest was abandoned when the visiting team walked off, UEFA said on Wednesday.
The game between Group C2 leaders Romania and second-placed Kosovo was abandoned in stoppage time on Friday after the Kosovo players left the field with the score at 0-0 when they heard pro-Serbia chanting from home fans, which Romania has denied.
The Romanian Football Federation (FRF) was fined €128,000 ($135,000) for a range of charges relating to “xenophobic anti-Hungarian chants,” “provocative political messages not fit for a sports event,” and disturbing the national anthems.
The FRF has also been ordered to close its stadium for the next home match due to racist and discriminatory behaviour by the team’s supporters.
The Football Federation of Kosovo will pay a fine of €6,000 for the improper conduct of its team.
The state of Romania does not recognise Kosovo’s declaration of independence in 2008 from Serbia.
The match in Bucharest was suspended in stoppage time and later abandoned. There were scuffles between players from both sides and Kosovo players walked off the pitch.
Information from Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report
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Romania have been awarded a 3-0 victory over Kosovo after their Nations League match in Bucharest was abandoned, UEFA said on Wednesday.
Spurs appeal length of Bentancur’s 7-game ban
Spurs appeal length of Bentancur’s 7-game ban
Tottenham have said they have appealed the length of the seven-match ban given to midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur by the Football Association.
Tottenham have said they have appealed the length of the seven-match ban given to midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur by the Football Association. Tottenham have said they have appealed the length of the seven-match ban given to midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur by the Football Association.
Tottenham have appealed the length of the seven-match ban given to midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur by the English Football Association (FA) for comments he made about teammate Son Heung-Min in a television interview earlier this year.
Bentancur, 27, was handed a seven-game suspension and a £100,000 ($126,710) fine by the FA on Tuesday for using abusive language and bringing the game into disrepute during a Spanish-language interview on Uruguayan television in June.
The charge by the FA stemmed from a clip posted on social media after Bentancur was interviewed on Uruguayan Television programme “Por La Camiseta.” Host Rafa Cotelo asked Bentancur for a Spurs player’s shirt, to which he replied, “Sonny’s?” [Son Heung-Min], adding: “It could be Sonny’s cousin too as they all look the same.”
He denied the FA charge. Spurs have said that they accept the charge, but believe the length of the ban given to the Uruguay international is too harsh.
“We can confirm that the Club has appealed against the length of Rodrigo Bentancur’s FA suspension, issued earlier this week,” Spurs said in a statement on Wednesday.
“While we accept the guilty finding against Rodrigo by the independent regulatory commission, we believe the subsequent sanction is severe.
“Rodrigo will remain suspended from domestic competitions while the appeal is heard and the Club will make no further comment during this time.”
The ban, if it is upheld, does not apply to European competitions, meaning Bentancur can still play against Roma and Rangers in the Europa League, but he would miss Premier League clashes with Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool, as well as a Carabao Cup quarterfinal against Manchester United.
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Tottenham have said they have appealed the length of the seven-match ban given to midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur by the Football Association.
FC Dallas names Eric Quill to replace Luccin
FC Dallas names Eric Quill to replace Luccin
FC Dallas has named New Mexico United manager Eric Quill to be its next manager, the team announced on Wednesday.
FC Dallas has named New Mexico United manager Eric Quill to be its next manager, the team announced on Wednesday. FC Dallas has named New Mexico United manager Eric Quill to be its next manager, the team announced on Wednesday.
FC Dallas has named New Mexico United manager Eric Quill to be its next manager, the team announced on Wednesday.
Quill replaces Nico Estevez, who was fired in June and was replaced on an interim basis by assistant coach Peter Luccin. Luccin was among the finalists to get the full-time job, but FCD ultimately went with Quill.
“I’m extremely excited and truly honored to get the opportunity to lead FC Dallas into the 2025 season and beyond,” Quill said via a news release. “This club has a rich history, values player development and prioritizes competitive excellence.”
The appointment amounts to a homecoming of sorts for Quill, as he managed FCD’s reserve team, North Texas SC, from 2019-21.
During that spell, he led NTSC to the inaugural USL League One Championship in 2019 and earned USL League One Coach of the Year honors.
Among the players he coached on that team are current U.S. internationals Ricardo Pepi and Tanner Tessmann.
“We are so excited to welcome Eric Quill back to the FC Dallas family,” said FC Dallas Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt. “Eric is a championship-caliber coach who has experience leading teams to the top of the table. He has a deep knowledge of the game built over three decades as a player and coach at the collegiate, professional, and national team levels, and his keen focus on player development makes him an excellent fit to lead FC Dallas.”
Following his departure from NTSC in 2021, Quill served as an assistant with the Columbus Crew.
In June of 2023, he took over the reins at New Mexico United, and this season led the team to the Western Conference title with a record of 18-5-11. The team also reached the quarterfinals of the U.S. Open Cup.
“Eric’s coaching philosophy and methodology align perfectly with FC Dallas’ commitment to player development and attacking soccer,” Chief Soccer Officer André Zanotta said. “He has a deep understanding of our ecosystem and the values that drive our club, from the Academy to the first team. Eric’s ability to maximize player potential and his innovative approach to the game make him an ideal leader for this next chapter of FC Dallas.”
As a player, Quill joined MLS in 1997 with the Tampa Bay Mutiny, where he tallied eight goals and 19 assists across 79 appearances.
He later played for the Kansas City Wizards (now Sporting Kansas City), scoring seven goals and assisting seven over 49 matches, and joined the Dallas Burn in 2004, contributing a goal and three assists in 23 games.
Quill retired in 2005 after a season with the New York MetroStars (now New York Red Bulls). Internationally, Quill played for the U.S. at U-16 and U-20 levels.
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FC Dallas has named New Mexico United manager Eric Quill to be its next manager, the team announced on Wednesday.
Ex-Man United star Mata buys stake in San Diego
Ex-Man United star Mata buys stake in San Diego
Former Spain international and World Cup winner Juan Mata has joined the ownership group of MLS expansion side San Diego FC, the club announced on Wednesday.
Former Spain international and World Cup winner Juan Mata has joined the ownership group of MLS expansion side San Diego FC, the club announced on Wednesday. Former Spain international and World Cup winner Juan Mata has joined the ownership group of MLS expansion side San Diego FC, the club announced on Wednesday.
Former Spain international and World Cup winner Juan Mata has joined the ownership group of MLS expansion side San Diego FC, the club announced on Wednesday.
Mata, currently playing with Australian A-League Men side Western Sydney Wanderers, is the first active international soccer player to hold an ownership stake in an MLS team, and joins Inter Miami CF co-owner David Beckham as only the second international player to be involved in MLS ownership.
San Diego, which will begin play next season, is owned by Egyptian businessman and club chairman Sir Mohamed Mansour, with the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, a Native American tribe whose reservation is located near El Cajon, California, also in the ownership group.
Mansour also owns Danish club FC Nordsjælland and the Right to Dream Academy, a soccer academy which has facilities in Ghana, Egypt, and Denmark.
“We are absolutely delighted that Juan Mata has joined the club as a partner,” said Mansour. “Juan has been an active and long-term supporter of Right to Dream, and he shares our values of wanting to use football to deliver long-term social impact and change.”
Mata, 36, founded the Common Goal initiative in 2017, pledging one percent of his salary to social causes. Common Goal is a partner of Right to Dream (RTD).
“Joining San Diego FC as a partner is an exciting opportunity to help build something truly special in a city and league that are experiencing incredible growth,” said Mata in a statement released by the team. “The commitment of both this Club and Right to Dream to community impact, excellence, and a vision for long-term success aligns perfectly with my own values. I look forward to contributing my experience and passion for the game and working alongside everyone here to build a Club that inspires both on and off the pitch.”
Mata has enjoyed a glittering career as a player, one that, in addition to his World Cup exploits has seen him win Euro 2012 with Spain, and the 2011-12 UEFA Champions League with Chelsea.
“Juan’s addition to SDFC’s ownership group brings a global perspective and a commitment to positive social impact that perfectly aligns with our Club’s mission,” said SDFC CEO Tom Penn. “As a World Cup champion, Champions League winner, and a leader both on and off the field, Juan embodies excellence and purpose in everything he does. His passion for using football as a force for good resonates deeply with our vision for our SDFC and our community, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome him to our Club.”
A product of Real Madrid‘s youth academy, Mata began his professional career with Real Madrid Castilla before transferring to Valencia CF in 2007, where he won the Copa del Rey the following year.
Mata signed for Chelsea in 2011, and in addition to the Champions League, he was part of sides that claimed the 2012 FA Cup, and the 2013 UEFA Europa League titles. He also earned Chelsea’s Player of the Year honors twice in that span.
Mata also enjoyed success upon joining Manchester United in January of 2014, winning the FA Cup, Europa League and EFL Cup during his nine seasons with the club. He later won league titles in Turkey with Galatasaray, and in Japan with Vissel Kobe.
He joined Western Sydney Wanderers in September of this year.
Mata is a strategic investor in Alpine Racing Ltd, a Formula 1 team backed by Renault Group through Otro Capital, a private investment fund focused on sports, media, and entertainment ventures.
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Former Spain international and World Cup winner Juan Mata has joined the ownership group of MLS expansion side San Diego FC, the club announced on Wednesday.
New owners seek Klopp’s aid to transform Paris FC
New owners seek Klopp’s aid to transform Paris FC
The Arnault family, owners of the LVMH luxury empire, plan to draw on Jürgen Klopp’s expertise as part of an ambitious project to transform Paris FC into a force in French soccer.
The Arnault family, owners of the LVMH luxury empire, plan to draw on Jürgen Klopp’s expertise as part of an ambitious project to transform Paris FC into a force in French soccer. The Arnault family, owners of the LVMH luxury empire, plan to draw on Jürgen Klopp’s expertise as part of an ambitious project to transform Paris FC into a force in French soccer.
The Arnault family, owners of the LVMH luxury empire, plan to draw on Jürgen Klopp’s expertise as part of an ambitious project to transform Paris FC into a force in French soccer.
The family’s takeover of the second-tier club includes bringing energy drink giant Red Bull on board as a minority stakeholder. Klopp, the former Liverpool manager, is set to join Red Bull as head of global soccer in January.
“I’ve spoken with Klopp several times, and he’s very, very excited about working with us,” said Antoine Arnault, son of billionaire Bernard Arnault.
Arnault spoke Wednesday at a news conference at the team’s training ground in Orly, located 14 miles south of Paris.
“We’re not coming in alone,” Arnault said. “Red Bull is by our side because we know what we’re good at and what we’re not. We have management skills, but none in football operations.”
Arnault highlighted plans to leverage Red Bull’s tools to tap into the Paris region’s deep pool of soccer talent.
“Paris has probably the best talent pool in the world, rivaling only São Paulo,” he said. “Red Bull’s revolutionary data tools will greatly aid our scouting efforts.”
Arnault also outlined plans for the family’s majority stake.
“This is a family project we started with my brothers and sister,” Arnault told reporters. “We thought it was a good idea to venture into something more thrilling than our usual activities. Football has been my passion since I was 10 years old.”
The family’s holding company, Agache, will acquire a 52% stake in the club, while Red Bull will hold 11%. Arnault will represent Agache on Paris FC’s board.
Current club president and owner Pierre Ferracci will retain 30% for now. He said the takeover has been approved by the French league, with the deal expected to be finalized on Nov. 29.
By 2027, the Arnault family is set to hold around 80% of the shares, with Red Bull increasing its stake to 15%.
The acquisition positions Paris FC as a potential rival to Paris Saint-Germain, the Qatari-backed powerhouse. However, Arnault downplayed any rivalry.
“PSG is a club I’ve loved since I was 12 years old,” he said. “You’ll never hear me say anything negative about it. I don’t exclude supporting two clubs in the capital.”
Arnault described the project as a long-term effort to elevate Paris FC’s men’s and women’s teams to top-tier success.
Ferracci, who has led Paris FC since 2012, emphasized the importance of sustainable growth for the club.
“There’s a sovereignty issue in football,” Ferracci said, referring to the dominance of foreign ownership in French clubs. “If Paris FC can stand out with French investment, it would be a very good thing.”
Created in 1969, Paris FC’s men’s team has yet to achieve any significant success. This year, they lead the Ligue 2 standings with more than half of the season remaining, and their women’s team competes in France’s top-tier league and the Women’s Champions League.
“We’re not doing this to make money,” Arnault said. “We want to provide emotional experiences for fans. We were deeply inspired by the Olympics and their positive impact. While we are not used to wasting money, we’ll work toward financial balance.”
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The Arnault family, owners of the LVMH luxury empire, plan to draw on Jürgen Klopp’s expertise as part of an ambitious project to transform Paris FC into a force in French soccer.
U.S. to face Japan, Australia in SheBelieves Cup
U.S. to face Japan, Australia in SheBelieves Cup
The United States women’s national team will host Japan, Australia and Colombia in the 2025 SheBelieves Cup, the U.S. Soccer Federation said.
The United States women’s national team will host Japan, Australia and Colombia in the 2025 SheBelieves Cup, the U.S. Soccer Federation said. The United States women’s national team will host Japan, Australia and Colombia in the 2025 SheBelieves Cup, the U.S. Soccer Federation said.
The United States women’s national team will host Japan, Australia and Colombia in the 2025 SheBelieves Cup, the U.S. Soccer Federation said on Wednesday.
The USWNT, currently ranked first in FIFA’s women’s soccer rankings, will open the competition on Feb. 20 against 21st-ranked Colombia at Shell Energy Stadium in Houston, Texas.
That will be followed three days later with a match against 15th-ranked Australia at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz. Feb. 26. The final day of the competition will see the U.S. face seventh-ranked Japan at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, Calif.
This is the 10th edition of the tournament.
“This will be my first SheBelieves Cup, but I’ve followed the tournament, and it always produces close games between top teams,” U.S. head coach Emma Hayes said. “All four of these teams were in the last World Cup and Olympics, and all are in the building process to qualify for the next World Cup, so to get three games against talented teams and players in a format that replicates group play at a world championship is valuable in our process. All the games will be great tests for the teams and fun for all the fans.”
The USWNT has never been beaten by Las Cafeteras, holding an all-time record of 11-0-2. The two teams last met at the W Gold Cup, with the USWNT prevailing 3-0.
The United States women have played the Matildas 35 times, with the USWNT holding a record of 28W-1L-5D. Australia is managed by former U.S. head coach Tom Sermanni. The U.S. and Australia met in the final group match of this summer’s Olympics, a 2-1 U.S. victory that knocked the Matildas out of the tournament.
The U.S.-Japan rivalry dates back to 1986. Starting in 2011, the teams met in three straight world finals, with Japan winning the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup on penalties, while the U.S. won the London 2012 Olympic Games and the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The USWNT holds a 32W-1L-8D all-time record against the Nadeshiko. The most recent meeting between the two teams took place at last summer’s Olympic Games, as the Americans claimed a 1-0 victory in the quarterfinals.
Australia and Colombia will make their first appearances in the SheBelieves Cup, while Japan returns to the field for the third consecutive year and the fifth time overall. The USA has won the last five SheBelieves Cups and has seven titles overall, while France won in 2017, and England took top honors in 2019.
The SheBelieves Cup will be the second event for the USWNT in 2025 as the team will start the new year with a training camp in Los Angeles that will run from Jan. 14-21.
No official matches are associated with that camp, but it will run concurrently with the “Futures Camp” that will feature up-and-coming USWNT prospects.
Rosters for both camps will be announced early next year.
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The United States women’s national team will host Japan, Australia and Colombia in the 2025 SheBelieves Cup, the U.S. Soccer Federation said.
Predicting Amorim’s first 11 games at Man United — and how he compares to prior coaches
Predicting Amorim’s first 11 games at Man United — and how he compares to prior coaches
Ahead of Rúben Amorim’s first game as manager of Manchester United, ESPN predicts the remaining 11 games in 2024 for the club and how they’ll fare.
Ahead of Rúben Amorim’s first game as manager of Manchester United, ESPN predicts the remaining 11 games in 2024 for the club and how they’ll fare. Ahead of Rúben Amorim’s first game as manager of Manchester United, ESPN predicts the remaining 11 games in 2024 for the club and how they’ll fare.
On Sunday, Rúben Amorim begins his highly anticipated tenure as Manchester United manager away to Ipswich Town in the Premier League. The 39-year-old Portuguese manager will introduce himself to a fanbase anxiously hoping for a change of fortune after a dismal start to the campaign.
We’ll have to wait and see what kind of football we get, but it’s safe to say that to coach in the Premier League is one thing, but to do it as United’s manager is an entirely bigger mountain to climb. Why? Because this isn’t just about being 13th in the table, aching to enter the top four again. It’s not even about the shadows of Sir Alex Ferguson’s era continuously clouding the present. This is about a club with a prodigious history and a colossal global brand.
Amorim has 11 matches for the remainder of the calendar year to make an immediate impact, so why not predict their outcomes and compare them to previous Man United managers, including his mentor Jose Mourinho?
Before we begin, I am not using a statistical, data-driven, analytical formula here. This is driven by the ultimate guide that every analyst relies on: gut.
Ipswich Town, Nov. 24 (Premier League, Away)
This is the beginning of Amorim’s era and funnily enough it comes against Kieran McKenna, who was part of Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s coaching staff at Carrington. Due to the international break, Amorim will have only two days of full training sessions with the whole squad, meaning many players will have a limited understanding of his ideas and those on national team duty might not be at 100% fitness.
That’s why Amorim’s main task is to be defensively strong. Don’t concede and everything else will follow. United fans see fragments of his 3-4-3 vision, but it won’t be complete, and that’s OK. The 39-year-old wants to see character that he can build into an identity.
At halftime, it’s a stalemate, but as the game passes the hour mark, Amorim’s tactics come through. Marcus Rashford needs to make an impact for club and country, and Amorim challenges the English attacker, using him more centrally in this matchup.
It’s also an important game for Rasmus Højlund. With only one league goal all season, the Dane knows he needs to impress. Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes pulls all the strings, setting up a goal and scoring another. The new manager bounce pays off and Amorim’s United take the three points back to Manchester.
Predicted score: Ipswich Town 0-2 Man United
Bodo/Glimt, Nov. 28 (Europa League, Home)
For the first time, Old Trafford welcomes Amorim as its manager, which should make for an electric atmosphere. The crowd welcomes him with open arms and there’s a newfound sense of optimism. The charismatic Portuguese coach soaks it all in before kickoff and wants his team to make a statement.
It’s clear that the Premier League remains the biggest priority in his to-do list, but Amorim, who knows how special European nights can be, comes out with an attack-minded lineup. Look out for Alejandro Garnacho: His role under Amorim is intriguing to watch as he is required to cover a lot more ground on the left-hand side.
Man United are currently 15th in Europa League’s phase standings, one point below tonight’s visitors. Amorim won’t like that one bit, and he’ll make sure the squad holds nothing back. The Red Devils demolish the Norwegians, concluding the night with a strong victory and a satisfied Old Trafford.
Predicted score: Man United 4-0 Bodo Glimt
Everton, Dec. 1 (Premier League, H)
With momentum under their wings, Man United are feeling good and seeing as this is Amorim’s first league game at home, the team hope to make it three wins from three. But Sean Dyche aims to counter the Portuguese manager’s tactics with some resilient defending and counterattacking ploys of his own. He also knows that the last time these sides met, his Toffees should have gotten something out of it.
Last March under Erik Ten Hag, United came out victorious with a 2-0 win, but it wasn’t a convincing performance as it required two penalties as well as stout defending against Everton, who took 23 shots. But today is a different story. It’s a physical game and even though the visitors get the opening goal, in the end Man United seal the three points.
One of Amorim’s goals is to ensure his team gives a 90-minute performance and that’s what happens here. Hojlund is now finding his feet and scores twice for United. Amorim promised goals and that’s exactly what United fans are seeing, making it nine goals in three games.
Predicted score: Man United 3-1 Everton
Why Mark Ogden believes Ruben Amorim is the ‘real deal’
Mark Odgen praises the appointment of Ruben Amorim by Manchester United and says he’s inheriting a better situation than people think.
Arsenal, Dec. 4 (Premier League, A)
The biggest test of Amorim’s tenure comes only three days after the Everton victory against an Arsenal side desperate for results in order to keep in the title race and the top four. Meanwhile, United are also back in the European race thanks to the impressive start under their new manager.
However, Mikel Arteta’s Gunners have not lost at home all season and this game, which is a midweek affair in the busiest month of the Premier League calendar, is a real test of how Amorim can handle his squad. December is a nightmare because there are matches every three or four days, so a lot depends on the health of the roster. Arsenal are also undefeated against Man United in their last three encounters so they’re not exactly the dream opponent.
Regardless, this is also the type of fixture that Amorim relishes. This is why he took the job at Manchester United. He wants to awaken the giant. It ends as an entertaining affair with Manuel Ugarte, who played for Amorim at Sporting and delivered a man-of-the-match performance in 2023 against Arsenal, shining in this one, too. The Red Devils show more progress and salvage a draw.
Predicted score: Arsenal 2-2 Man United
Fatigued after the battle against Arsenal, Man United encounter an uncomfortable matchup against Amorim’s compatriot Nuno Espírito Santo as Nottingham Forest find themselves in surprising waters, high up the table. But Forest are also tired, having played against Man City in their previous fixture. Forest’s record away from City Ground is remarkable, but November and December are major tests for the Tricky Trees on the road.
This is not a game for aesthetics and quickly becomes a physical back and forth. There might be a red card in this one and Amorim will see how feisty this league can be. But after being part of many tough matchups in the Portuguese league as player and manager, he’s no stranger to a good scrap. Casemiro scores the winner and United see themselves in top-five territory.
Predicted score: Man United 2-1 Nottingham Forest
The matches continue to pile up but this is the last Europa League game of the year for Man United and Amorim wants to finish 2024 in strong fashion. A victory would further cement their place in the top eight, which would secure a Round of 16 spot.
But Czech side Viktoria Plzen are no pushovers, especially in this competition. They are undefeated and despite multiple draws, they beat Real Sociedad in the previous matchday. Ghanaian star Prince Adu is a handful and Man United, feeling the effects of a packed December schedule, find it hard to get much from this game. The home side score first and make it difficult for United to find opportunities, but the perseverance from Amorim’s team rewards them. Rashford finds the back of the net in the second half and the Red Devils earn a valuable point on matchday six.
Predicted score: Man United 1-1 Viktoria Plzen
The biggest game of Amorim’s career as Man United manager is here and if you think Pep Guardiola has forgotten what happened on Nov. 5 when Sporting destroyed Man City 4-1 in the Champions League, then think again.
That victory at José Alvalade Stadium remains a thorn in the Catalan manager’s side and he will want to make sure City respond in this highly-anticipated Manchester derby. Let’s not forget that this season has become one of the most competitive title races in recent history, too. The battle for top spot is tight, while the European places are contested by almost the entire top half of the table.
City need this game, while Amorim knows that a result can propel United’s momentum. They remain undefeated under the Portuguese head coach, but City have finally found form after the international break. Erling Haaland notches first for City, but Fernandes equalizes before the halftime whistle thanks to a penalty. It’s a relentless back and forth as Mateo Kovacic puts Man City ahead once again but Hojlund continues his strong streak and equalizes for the Red Devils.
Then, in the final moments of the game, a Hollywood finale presents itself as Garnacho writes himself in United folklore. Man United take three points and the game goes down as a classic.
Back when Amorim managed Braga, he led them to earn their first away victory at Benfica in 65 years, so nothing is impossible.
Predicted score: Man City 2-3 Man United
Bernardo Silva: I don’t wish Rúben Amorim well at Man United
Bernardo Silva speaks ahead of Man City’s clash with Sporting CP in Rúben Amorim’s penultimate game with the club.
United’s euphoria after their victory over Manchester City ends against Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham, who aims for a trophy in his second season as Spurs manager. There’s heavy squad rotation for United, as they have to prepare for a league game against Bournemouth in three days time.
This matchup comes too soon for the Red Devils, especially against an energetic, determined Tottenham who eased past a struggling Southampton side the game before. Spurs are at home and desperate for a trophy and as a result, Amorim suffers his first defeat. In the end, it might prove to be a blessing in disguise as Amorim’s goals for Man United go beyond the League Cup.
Predicted score: Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 Man United
Bournemouth, Dec. 22 (Premier League, H)
Andoni Iraola’s Cherries have kept improving week after week and they prove to be a challenging opponent for United. After rotating his team against Tottenham, Amorim brings back his best XI for this one. Ugarte and Luke Shaw deliver strong performances and despite conceding first, the Red Devils earn a victory and are now in top four territory.
By this game, United fans are finally seeing what consistency in the league looks like. There’s a long way to go, but the team is showing signs of a new era. Leny Yoro‘s return is a massive boost this month.
Predicted score: Man United 2-1 Bournemouth
Fixtures on Boxing Day are daunting as the wrath of December takes its toll on Premier League teams. Gary O’Neill’s Wolves are struggling this season but by the end of this month, they have found some momentum. Amorim’s first game at Molineux is a scrappy encounter and surprisingly, it’s his team that concedes first.
United find it hard to get going until the last 15 minutes when the substitutes impact the game. This match, however, turns into an anomaly under Amorim as United, looking tired, leave Wolverhampton with only a point.
Predicted score: Wolves 1-1 Man United
No money, no wing-backs: The challenges Amorim already faces at Man United
On “The Football Reporters”, Mark Ogden and Rob Dawson break down the challenges Ruben Amorim will have to overcome to make a fast start at Manchester United.
Historically speaking, this fixture has almost always delivered. Last May at Old Trafford, for example, United won 3-2 thanks to goals from Kobbie Mainoo, Amad and Hojlund to boost their European ambitions. In this encounter, Newcastle arrive at Manchester after a thrilling battle with Aston Villa at St. James’ Park on Boxing Day.
But Newcastle have done reasonably well in December and continue to have European aspirations of their own. So this game is another thriller that ultimately ends in a Manchester United win, thanks to a brace from Fernandes, another one from Rashford and a goal from Yoro, his first for the club.
Predicted score: Man United 4-2 Newcastle
How does Amorim’s predicted first 11 games compare to previous five permanent managers?
Record of Manchester United’s previous five managers in first 11 games (W-D-L):
Erik ten Hag, 2022: 7-0-4Ole Gunnar Solsjkaer (caretaker role), 2018-19: 10-1-0José Mourinho, 2016: 7-1-3Louis van Gaal, 2014: 3-4-5David Moyes, 2013: 6-2-3
LME’s prediction for Rúben Amorim’s record after 11 matches: 7-3-1
After making my predictions for Amorim’s first 11 games, we can see that his win record is the same as Erik ten Hag and Jose Mourinho’s. Only Ole Gunnar Solskajer has a better run after this number of games, and I don’t see any other head coach replicating what he did in that timeframe. It was quite remarkable, hence why Solskajer was offered the permanent job shortly after taking over.
However, I think Amorim’s immediate impact will be more impressive because he will instill identity into the way Man United play and make them a tougher side to win against. Confidence will return to Old Trafford. I think Amorim is the kind of manager that Man United have been waiting for. He is the man to finally help the club move beyond Sir Alex Ferguson’s shadow, and that’s not to say they need to forget what Ferguson brought to the club. This is about the future of Man United and how Amorim can bring in a new era of resilient optimism.
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Ahead of Rúben Amorim’s first game as manager of Manchester United, ESPN predicts the remaining 11 games in 2024 for the club and how they’ll fare.
Record-breaking jockey leaves hospital but faces months of recovery from multiple fractures
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Business
Bauchi, Galaxy Backbone sign pact to deploy ICT infrastructure
The Federal Government-owned digital infrastructure company, Galaxy Backbone, and the Bauchi State Government have signed an agreement to deploy digital infrastructure and ICT services across the state. The company made this announcement in a statement issued by the Head of Corporate Communications at Galaxy Backbone, Chidi Okpala, on Wednesday. The pact was formalised during a
The Federal Government-owned digital infrastructure company, Galaxy Backbone, and the Bauchi State Government have signed an agreement to deploy digital infrastructure and ICT services across the state. The company made this announcement in a statement issued by the Head of Corporate Communications at Galaxy Backbone, Chidi Okpala, on Wednesday. The pact was formalised during a
Read More The Federal Government-owned digital infrastructure company, Galaxy Backbone, and the Bauchi State Government have signed an agreement to deploy digital infrastructure and ICT services across the state. The company made this announcement in a statement issued by the Head of Corporate Communications at Galaxy Backbone, Chidi Okpala, on Wednesday. The pact was formalised during a
Read More Punch Newspapers – Business
The Federal Government-owned digital infrastructure company, Galaxy Backbone, and the Bauchi State Government have signed an agreement to deploy digital infrastructure and ICT services across the state. The company made this announcement in a statement issued by the Head of Corporate Communications at Galaxy Backbone, Chidi Okpala, on Wednesday. The pact was formalised during a
Read More
Vessel funds not missing – NIMASA
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency has said that the $350m accrued under the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund is intact and currently with the Central Bank of Nigeria under the Single Treasury Account. The agency reacted to a recent media publication that alleged that funds had disappeared from the CVFF account. In a statement
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency has said that the $350m accrued under the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund is intact and currently with the Central Bank of Nigeria under the Single Treasury Account. The agency reacted to a recent media publication that alleged that funds had disappeared from the CVFF account. In a statement
Read More The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency has said that the $350m accrued under the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund is intact and currently with the Central Bank of Nigeria under the Single Treasury Account. The agency reacted to a recent media publication that alleged that funds had disappeared from the CVFF account. In a statement
Read More Punch Newspapers – Business
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency has said that the $350m accrued under the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund is intact and currently with the Central Bank of Nigeria under the Single Treasury Account. The agency reacted to a recent media publication that alleged that funds had disappeared from the CVFF account. In a statement
Read More
Fast credit launches kiddies swag account
Fast Credit Limited has introduced a savings product, the KiddiesSwag account, designed for children and young adults aged 0-18 years. In a statement made available to our correspondent on Tuesday, the account aims to instill early saving habits while offering benefits, including a 15 per cent annual interest rate. According to the statement, the fully
Fast Credit Limited has introduced a savings product, the KiddiesSwag account, designed for children and young adults aged 0-18 years. In a statement made available to our correspondent on Tuesday, the account aims to instill early saving habits while offering benefits, including a 15 per cent annual interest rate. According to the statement, the fully
Read More Fast Credit Limited has introduced a savings product, the KiddiesSwag account, designed for children and young adults aged 0-18 years. In a statement made available to our correspondent on Tuesday, the account aims to instill early saving habits while offering benefits, including a 15 per cent annual interest rate. According to the statement, the fully
Read More Punch Newspapers – Business
Fast Credit Limited has introduced a savings product, the KiddiesSwag account, designed for children and young adults aged 0-18 years. In a statement made available to our correspondent on Tuesday, the account aims to instill early saving habits while offering benefits, including a 15 per cent annual interest rate. According to the statement, the fully
Read More
ASULAND elects new officers
The Association of University of Liberia Alumni in Nigeria and Diaspora has elected new executive officers. A statement signed by ASULAND’s Social Secretary, Benjamin Osibodu, noted the appointment of Mr Kola Abdul as President, Mr Israel Okujagu as Vice President, and Mr Taiwo Awoniyi, was elected as the General Secretary. Others include Mr Tammy Amadi
The Association of University of Liberia Alumni in Nigeria and Diaspora has elected new executive officers. A statement signed by ASULAND’s Social Secretary, Benjamin Osibodu, noted the appointment of Mr Kola Abdul as President, Mr Israel Okujagu as Vice President, and Mr Taiwo Awoniyi, was elected as the General Secretary. Others include Mr Tammy Amadi
Read More The Association of University of Liberia Alumni in Nigeria and Diaspora has elected new executive officers. A statement signed by ASULAND’s Social Secretary, Benjamin Osibodu, noted the appointment of Mr Kola Abdul as President, Mr Israel Okujagu as Vice President, and Mr Taiwo Awoniyi, was elected as the General Secretary. Others include Mr Tammy Amadi
Read More Punch Newspapers – Business
The Association of University of Liberia Alumni in Nigeria and Diaspora has elected new executive officers. A statement signed by ASULAND’s Social Secretary, Benjamin Osibodu, noted the appointment of Mr Kola Abdul as President, Mr Israel Okujagu as Vice President, and Mr Taiwo Awoniyi, was elected as the General Secretary. Others include Mr Tammy Amadi
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NPA seeks collaboration to boost regional trade
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Abubakar Dantsoho, has called for enhanced technological collaboration among African littoral states to accelerate transit cargo transportation, particularly in regions requiring multiple waterway transits. Speaking on Monday at the 44th Annual Council and 19th Roundtable of the Directors General of the Port Management Association of West and
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Abubakar Dantsoho, has called for enhanced technological collaboration among African littoral states to accelerate transit cargo transportation, particularly in regions requiring multiple waterway transits. Speaking on Monday at the 44th Annual Council and 19th Roundtable of the Directors General of the Port Management Association of West and
Read More The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Abubakar Dantsoho, has called for enhanced technological collaboration among African littoral states to accelerate transit cargo transportation, particularly in regions requiring multiple waterway transits. Speaking on Monday at the 44th Annual Council and 19th Roundtable of the Directors General of the Port Management Association of West and
Read More Punch Newspapers – Business
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Abubakar Dantsoho, has called for enhanced technological collaboration among African littoral states to accelerate transit cargo transportation, particularly in regions requiring multiple waterway transits. Speaking on Monday at the 44th Annual Council and 19th Roundtable of the Directors General of the Port Management Association of West and
Read More
WAPCO, others boost equity market by N136bn
The Nigerian equity market closed on a positive note on Tuesday, as key stocks, led by Lafarge WAPCO, lifted the market to N136bn gain. The market capitalisation of the Nigerian Stock Exchange increased by 0.23 per cent to close at N59.4tn, while a total of 333,948,810 shares were traded in 9,187 deals, with a market
The Nigerian equity market closed on a positive note on Tuesday, as key stocks, led by Lafarge WAPCO, lifted the market to N136bn gain. The market capitalisation of the Nigerian Stock Exchange increased by 0.23 per cent to close at N59.4tn, while a total of 333,948,810 shares were traded in 9,187 deals, with a market
Read More The Nigerian equity market closed on a positive note on Tuesday, as key stocks, led by Lafarge WAPCO, lifted the market to N136bn gain. The market capitalisation of the Nigerian Stock Exchange increased by 0.23 per cent to close at N59.4tn, while a total of 333,948,810 shares were traded in 9,187 deals, with a market
Read More Punch Newspapers – Business
The Nigerian equity market closed on a positive note on Tuesday, as key stocks, led by Lafarge WAPCO, lifted the market to N136bn gain. The market capitalisation of the Nigerian Stock Exchange increased by 0.23 per cent to close at N59.4tn, while a total of 333,948,810 shares were traded in 9,187 deals, with a market
Read More
51% of Nigerian startups struggle to secure funding — Report
A new report by TLP Advisory, a Nigerian venture law firm, has revealed that 51 per cent of startups in Nigeria face difficulties securing funding, primarily due to currency volatility and limited access to investors. The report, titled “A Decade of the Nigerian Venture Ecosystem: Numbers, Insights & Stories,” launched on Tuesday, provided a comprehensive
A new report by TLP Advisory, a Nigerian venture law firm, has revealed that 51 per cent of startups in Nigeria face difficulties securing funding, primarily due to currency volatility and limited access to investors. The report, titled “A Decade of the Nigerian Venture Ecosystem: Numbers, Insights & Stories,” launched on Tuesday, provided a comprehensive
Read More A new report by TLP Advisory, a Nigerian venture law firm, has revealed that 51 per cent of startups in Nigeria face difficulties securing funding, primarily due to currency volatility and limited access to investors. The report, titled “A Decade of the Nigerian Venture Ecosystem: Numbers, Insights & Stories,” launched on Tuesday, provided a comprehensive
Read More Punch Newspapers – Business
A new report by TLP Advisory, a Nigerian venture law firm, has revealed that 51 per cent of startups in Nigeria face difficulties securing funding, primarily due to currency volatility and limited access to investors. The report, titled “A Decade of the Nigerian Venture Ecosystem: Numbers, Insights & Stories,” launched on Tuesday, provided a comprehensive
Read More
Firm inaugurates organic sesame hulling plant
Agventure Commodities Limited on Monday inaugurated an organic and natural sesame hulling plant in Kano State as part of efforts to expand agro export in the country. The new sesame hulling plant is expected to generate employment opportunities for the local community, creating over 600 direct and indirect new jobs. The General Manager of the
Agventure Commodities Limited on Monday inaugurated an organic and natural sesame hulling plant in Kano State as part of efforts to expand agro export in the country. The new sesame hulling plant is expected to generate employment opportunities for the local community, creating over 600 direct and indirect new jobs. The General Manager of the
Read More Agventure Commodities Limited on Monday inaugurated an organic and natural sesame hulling plant in Kano State as part of efforts to expand agro export in the country. The new sesame hulling plant is expected to generate employment opportunities for the local community, creating over 600 direct and indirect new jobs. The General Manager of the
Read More Punch Newspapers – Business
Agventure Commodities Limited on Monday inaugurated an organic and natural sesame hulling plant in Kano State as part of efforts to expand agro export in the country. The new sesame hulling plant is expected to generate employment opportunities for the local community, creating over 600 direct and indirect new jobs. The General Manager of the
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Tinubu sacks PTAD boss
President Bola Tinubu has relieved Dr Chioma Ejikeme of her duties, 13 months after she was reappointed for another four years in office as the Executive Secretary of the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate. In a statement issued on Monday by the Head of the Corporate Communications Unit of PTAD, Olugbenga Ajayi, the President announced that
President Bola Tinubu has relieved Dr Chioma Ejikeme of her duties, 13 months after she was reappointed for another four years in office as the Executive Secretary of the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate. In a statement issued on Monday by the Head of the Corporate Communications Unit of PTAD, Olugbenga Ajayi, the President announced that
Read More President Bola Tinubu has relieved Dr Chioma Ejikeme of her duties, 13 months after she was reappointed for another four years in office as the Executive Secretary of the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate. In a statement issued on Monday by the Head of the Corporate Communications Unit of PTAD, Olugbenga Ajayi, the President announced that
Read More Punch Newspapers – Business
President Bola Tinubu has relieved Dr Chioma Ejikeme of her duties, 13 months after she was reappointed for another four years in office as the Executive Secretary of the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate. In a statement issued on Monday by the Head of the Corporate Communications Unit of PTAD, Olugbenga Ajayi, the President announced that
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Entertainment
Braxton Sisters Stand Ten Toes Behind Their Late Sister Traci’s Last Wishes
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Sport
Romania awarded win over Kosovo after walk-off
Romania awarded win over Kosovo after walk-off
Romania have been awarded a 3-0 victory over Kosovo after their Nations League match in Bucharest was abandoned, UEFA said on Wednesday.
Romania have been awarded a 3-0 victory over Kosovo after their Nations League match in Bucharest was abandoned, UEFA said on Wednesday. Romania have been awarded a 3-0 victory over Kosovo after their Nations League match in Bucharest was abandoned, UEFA said on Wednesday.
Romania have been awarded a 3-0 victory over Kosovo after their Nations League match in Bucharest was abandoned when the visiting team walked off, UEFA said on Wednesday.
The game between Group C2 leaders Romania and second-placed Kosovo was abandoned in stoppage time on Friday after the Kosovo players left the field with the score at 0-0 when they heard pro-Serbia chanting from home fans, which Romania has denied.
The Romanian Football Federation (FRF) was fined €128,000 ($135,000) for a range of charges relating to “xenophobic anti-Hungarian chants,” “provocative political messages not fit for a sports event,” and disturbing the national anthems.
The FRF has also been ordered to close its stadium for the next home match due to racist and discriminatory behaviour by the team’s supporters.
The Football Federation of Kosovo will pay a fine of €6,000 for the improper conduct of its team.
The state of Romania does not recognise Kosovo’s declaration of independence in 2008 from Serbia.
The match in Bucharest was suspended in stoppage time and later abandoned. There were scuffles between players from both sides and Kosovo players walked off the pitch.
Information from Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report
www.espn.com – SOCCER
Romania have been awarded a 3-0 victory over Kosovo after their Nations League match in Bucharest was abandoned, UEFA said on Wednesday.
Spurs appeal length of Bentancur’s 7-game ban
Spurs appeal length of Bentancur’s 7-game ban
Tottenham have said they have appealed the length of the seven-match ban given to midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur by the Football Association.
Tottenham have said they have appealed the length of the seven-match ban given to midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur by the Football Association. Tottenham have said they have appealed the length of the seven-match ban given to midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur by the Football Association.
Tottenham have appealed the length of the seven-match ban given to midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur by the English Football Association (FA) for comments he made about teammate Son Heung-Min in a television interview earlier this year.
Bentancur, 27, was handed a seven-game suspension and a £100,000 ($126,710) fine by the FA on Tuesday for using abusive language and bringing the game into disrepute during a Spanish-language interview on Uruguayan television in June.
The charge by the FA stemmed from a clip posted on social media after Bentancur was interviewed on Uruguayan Television programme “Por La Camiseta.” Host Rafa Cotelo asked Bentancur for a Spurs player’s shirt, to which he replied, “Sonny’s?” [Son Heung-Min], adding: “It could be Sonny’s cousin too as they all look the same.”
He denied the FA charge. Spurs have said that they accept the charge, but believe the length of the ban given to the Uruguay international is too harsh.
“We can confirm that the Club has appealed against the length of Rodrigo Bentancur’s FA suspension, issued earlier this week,” Spurs said in a statement on Wednesday.
“While we accept the guilty finding against Rodrigo by the independent regulatory commission, we believe the subsequent sanction is severe.
“Rodrigo will remain suspended from domestic competitions while the appeal is heard and the Club will make no further comment during this time.”
The ban, if it is upheld, does not apply to European competitions, meaning Bentancur can still play against Roma and Rangers in the Europa League, but he would miss Premier League clashes with Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool, as well as a Carabao Cup quarterfinal against Manchester United.
www.espn.com – SOCCER
Tottenham have said they have appealed the length of the seven-match ban given to midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur by the Football Association.
FC Dallas names Eric Quill to replace Luccin
FC Dallas names Eric Quill to replace Luccin
FC Dallas has named New Mexico United manager Eric Quill to be its next manager, the team announced on Wednesday.
FC Dallas has named New Mexico United manager Eric Quill to be its next manager, the team announced on Wednesday. FC Dallas has named New Mexico United manager Eric Quill to be its next manager, the team announced on Wednesday.
FC Dallas has named New Mexico United manager Eric Quill to be its next manager, the team announced on Wednesday.
Quill replaces Nico Estevez, who was fired in June and was replaced on an interim basis by assistant coach Peter Luccin. Luccin was among the finalists to get the full-time job, but FCD ultimately went with Quill.
“I’m extremely excited and truly honored to get the opportunity to lead FC Dallas into the 2025 season and beyond,” Quill said via a news release. “This club has a rich history, values player development and prioritizes competitive excellence.”
The appointment amounts to a homecoming of sorts for Quill, as he managed FCD’s reserve team, North Texas SC, from 2019-21.
During that spell, he led NTSC to the inaugural USL League One Championship in 2019 and earned USL League One Coach of the Year honors.
Among the players he coached on that team are current U.S. internationals Ricardo Pepi and Tanner Tessmann.
“We are so excited to welcome Eric Quill back to the FC Dallas family,” said FC Dallas Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt. “Eric is a championship-caliber coach who has experience leading teams to the top of the table. He has a deep knowledge of the game built over three decades as a player and coach at the collegiate, professional, and national team levels, and his keen focus on player development makes him an excellent fit to lead FC Dallas.”
Following his departure from NTSC in 2021, Quill served as an assistant with the Columbus Crew.
In June of 2023, he took over the reins at New Mexico United, and this season led the team to the Western Conference title with a record of 18-5-11. The team also reached the quarterfinals of the U.S. Open Cup.
“Eric’s coaching philosophy and methodology align perfectly with FC Dallas’ commitment to player development and attacking soccer,” Chief Soccer Officer André Zanotta said. “He has a deep understanding of our ecosystem and the values that drive our club, from the Academy to the first team. Eric’s ability to maximize player potential and his innovative approach to the game make him an ideal leader for this next chapter of FC Dallas.”
As a player, Quill joined MLS in 1997 with the Tampa Bay Mutiny, where he tallied eight goals and 19 assists across 79 appearances.
He later played for the Kansas City Wizards (now Sporting Kansas City), scoring seven goals and assisting seven over 49 matches, and joined the Dallas Burn in 2004, contributing a goal and three assists in 23 games.
Quill retired in 2005 after a season with the New York MetroStars (now New York Red Bulls). Internationally, Quill played for the U.S. at U-16 and U-20 levels.
www.espn.com – SOCCER
FC Dallas has named New Mexico United manager Eric Quill to be its next manager, the team announced on Wednesday.
Ex-Man United star Mata buys stake in San Diego
Ex-Man United star Mata buys stake in San Diego
Former Spain international and World Cup winner Juan Mata has joined the ownership group of MLS expansion side San Diego FC, the club announced on Wednesday.
Former Spain international and World Cup winner Juan Mata has joined the ownership group of MLS expansion side San Diego FC, the club announced on Wednesday. Former Spain international and World Cup winner Juan Mata has joined the ownership group of MLS expansion side San Diego FC, the club announced on Wednesday.
Former Spain international and World Cup winner Juan Mata has joined the ownership group of MLS expansion side San Diego FC, the club announced on Wednesday.
Mata, currently playing with Australian A-League Men side Western Sydney Wanderers, is the first active international soccer player to hold an ownership stake in an MLS team, and joins Inter Miami CF co-owner David Beckham as only the second international player to be involved in MLS ownership.
San Diego, which will begin play next season, is owned by Egyptian businessman and club chairman Sir Mohamed Mansour, with the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, a Native American tribe whose reservation is located near El Cajon, California, also in the ownership group.
Mansour also owns Danish club FC Nordsjælland and the Right to Dream Academy, a soccer academy which has facilities in Ghana, Egypt, and Denmark.
“We are absolutely delighted that Juan Mata has joined the club as a partner,” said Mansour. “Juan has been an active and long-term supporter of Right to Dream, and he shares our values of wanting to use football to deliver long-term social impact and change.”
Mata, 36, founded the Common Goal initiative in 2017, pledging one percent of his salary to social causes. Common Goal is a partner of Right to Dream (RTD).
“Joining San Diego FC as a partner is an exciting opportunity to help build something truly special in a city and league that are experiencing incredible growth,” said Mata in a statement released by the team. “The commitment of both this Club and Right to Dream to community impact, excellence, and a vision for long-term success aligns perfectly with my own values. I look forward to contributing my experience and passion for the game and working alongside everyone here to build a Club that inspires both on and off the pitch.”
Mata has enjoyed a glittering career as a player, one that, in addition to his World Cup exploits has seen him win Euro 2012 with Spain, and the 2011-12 UEFA Champions League with Chelsea.
“Juan’s addition to SDFC’s ownership group brings a global perspective and a commitment to positive social impact that perfectly aligns with our Club’s mission,” said SDFC CEO Tom Penn. “As a World Cup champion, Champions League winner, and a leader both on and off the field, Juan embodies excellence and purpose in everything he does. His passion for using football as a force for good resonates deeply with our vision for our SDFC and our community, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome him to our Club.”
A product of Real Madrid‘s youth academy, Mata began his professional career with Real Madrid Castilla before transferring to Valencia CF in 2007, where he won the Copa del Rey the following year.
Mata signed for Chelsea in 2011, and in addition to the Champions League, he was part of sides that claimed the 2012 FA Cup, and the 2013 UEFA Europa League titles. He also earned Chelsea’s Player of the Year honors twice in that span.
Mata also enjoyed success upon joining Manchester United in January of 2014, winning the FA Cup, Europa League and EFL Cup during his nine seasons with the club. He later won league titles in Turkey with Galatasaray, and in Japan with Vissel Kobe.
He joined Western Sydney Wanderers in September of this year.
Mata is a strategic investor in Alpine Racing Ltd, a Formula 1 team backed by Renault Group through Otro Capital, a private investment fund focused on sports, media, and entertainment ventures.
www.espn.com – SOCCER
Former Spain international and World Cup winner Juan Mata has joined the ownership group of MLS expansion side San Diego FC, the club announced on Wednesday.
New owners seek Klopp’s aid to transform Paris FC
New owners seek Klopp’s aid to transform Paris FC
The Arnault family, owners of the LVMH luxury empire, plan to draw on Jürgen Klopp’s expertise as part of an ambitious project to transform Paris FC into a force in French soccer.
The Arnault family, owners of the LVMH luxury empire, plan to draw on Jürgen Klopp’s expertise as part of an ambitious project to transform Paris FC into a force in French soccer. The Arnault family, owners of the LVMH luxury empire, plan to draw on Jürgen Klopp’s expertise as part of an ambitious project to transform Paris FC into a force in French soccer.
The Arnault family, owners of the LVMH luxury empire, plan to draw on Jürgen Klopp’s expertise as part of an ambitious project to transform Paris FC into a force in French soccer.
The family’s takeover of the second-tier club includes bringing energy drink giant Red Bull on board as a minority stakeholder. Klopp, the former Liverpool manager, is set to join Red Bull as head of global soccer in January.
“I’ve spoken with Klopp several times, and he’s very, very excited about working with us,” said Antoine Arnault, son of billionaire Bernard Arnault.
Arnault spoke Wednesday at a news conference at the team’s training ground in Orly, located 14 miles south of Paris.
“We’re not coming in alone,” Arnault said. “Red Bull is by our side because we know what we’re good at and what we’re not. We have management skills, but none in football operations.”
Arnault highlighted plans to leverage Red Bull’s tools to tap into the Paris region’s deep pool of soccer talent.
“Paris has probably the best talent pool in the world, rivaling only São Paulo,” he said. “Red Bull’s revolutionary data tools will greatly aid our scouting efforts.”
Arnault also outlined plans for the family’s majority stake.
“This is a family project we started with my brothers and sister,” Arnault told reporters. “We thought it was a good idea to venture into something more thrilling than our usual activities. Football has been my passion since I was 10 years old.”
The family’s holding company, Agache, will acquire a 52% stake in the club, while Red Bull will hold 11%. Arnault will represent Agache on Paris FC’s board.
Current club president and owner Pierre Ferracci will retain 30% for now. He said the takeover has been approved by the French league, with the deal expected to be finalized on Nov. 29.
By 2027, the Arnault family is set to hold around 80% of the shares, with Red Bull increasing its stake to 15%.
The acquisition positions Paris FC as a potential rival to Paris Saint-Germain, the Qatari-backed powerhouse. However, Arnault downplayed any rivalry.
“PSG is a club I’ve loved since I was 12 years old,” he said. “You’ll never hear me say anything negative about it. I don’t exclude supporting two clubs in the capital.”
Arnault described the project as a long-term effort to elevate Paris FC’s men’s and women’s teams to top-tier success.
Ferracci, who has led Paris FC since 2012, emphasized the importance of sustainable growth for the club.
“There’s a sovereignty issue in football,” Ferracci said, referring to the dominance of foreign ownership in French clubs. “If Paris FC can stand out with French investment, it would be a very good thing.”
Created in 1969, Paris FC’s men’s team has yet to achieve any significant success. This year, they lead the Ligue 2 standings with more than half of the season remaining, and their women’s team competes in France’s top-tier league and the Women’s Champions League.
“We’re not doing this to make money,” Arnault said. “We want to provide emotional experiences for fans. We were deeply inspired by the Olympics and their positive impact. While we are not used to wasting money, we’ll work toward financial balance.”
www.espn.com – SOCCER
The Arnault family, owners of the LVMH luxury empire, plan to draw on Jürgen Klopp’s expertise as part of an ambitious project to transform Paris FC into a force in French soccer.
U.S. to face Japan, Australia in SheBelieves Cup
U.S. to face Japan, Australia in SheBelieves Cup
The United States women’s national team will host Japan, Australia and Colombia in the 2025 SheBelieves Cup, the U.S. Soccer Federation said.
The United States women’s national team will host Japan, Australia and Colombia in the 2025 SheBelieves Cup, the U.S. Soccer Federation said. The United States women’s national team will host Japan, Australia and Colombia in the 2025 SheBelieves Cup, the U.S. Soccer Federation said.
The United States women’s national team will host Japan, Australia and Colombia in the 2025 SheBelieves Cup, the U.S. Soccer Federation said on Wednesday.
The USWNT, currently ranked first in FIFA’s women’s soccer rankings, will open the competition on Feb. 20 against 21st-ranked Colombia at Shell Energy Stadium in Houston, Texas.
That will be followed three days later with a match against 15th-ranked Australia at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz. Feb. 26. The final day of the competition will see the U.S. face seventh-ranked Japan at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, Calif.
This is the 10th edition of the tournament.
“This will be my first SheBelieves Cup, but I’ve followed the tournament, and it always produces close games between top teams,” U.S. head coach Emma Hayes said. “All four of these teams were in the last World Cup and Olympics, and all are in the building process to qualify for the next World Cup, so to get three games against talented teams and players in a format that replicates group play at a world championship is valuable in our process. All the games will be great tests for the teams and fun for all the fans.”
The USWNT has never been beaten by Las Cafeteras, holding an all-time record of 11-0-2. The two teams last met at the W Gold Cup, with the USWNT prevailing 3-0.
The United States women have played the Matildas 35 times, with the USWNT holding a record of 28W-1L-5D. Australia is managed by former U.S. head coach Tom Sermanni. The U.S. and Australia met in the final group match of this summer’s Olympics, a 2-1 U.S. victory that knocked the Matildas out of the tournament.
The U.S.-Japan rivalry dates back to 1986. Starting in 2011, the teams met in three straight world finals, with Japan winning the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup on penalties, while the U.S. won the London 2012 Olympic Games and the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The USWNT holds a 32W-1L-8D all-time record against the Nadeshiko. The most recent meeting between the two teams took place at last summer’s Olympic Games, as the Americans claimed a 1-0 victory in the quarterfinals.
Australia and Colombia will make their first appearances in the SheBelieves Cup, while Japan returns to the field for the third consecutive year and the fifth time overall. The USA has won the last five SheBelieves Cups and has seven titles overall, while France won in 2017, and England took top honors in 2019.
The SheBelieves Cup will be the second event for the USWNT in 2025 as the team will start the new year with a training camp in Los Angeles that will run from Jan. 14-21.
No official matches are associated with that camp, but it will run concurrently with the “Futures Camp” that will feature up-and-coming USWNT prospects.
Rosters for both camps will be announced early next year.
www.espn.com – SOCCER
The United States women’s national team will host Japan, Australia and Colombia in the 2025 SheBelieves Cup, the U.S. Soccer Federation said.
Predicting Amorim’s first 11 games at Man United — and how he compares to prior coaches
Predicting Amorim’s first 11 games at Man United — and how he compares to prior coaches
Ahead of Rúben Amorim’s first game as manager of Manchester United, ESPN predicts the remaining 11 games in 2024 for the club and how they’ll fare.
Ahead of Rúben Amorim’s first game as manager of Manchester United, ESPN predicts the remaining 11 games in 2024 for the club and how they’ll fare. Ahead of Rúben Amorim’s first game as manager of Manchester United, ESPN predicts the remaining 11 games in 2024 for the club and how they’ll fare.
On Sunday, Rúben Amorim begins his highly anticipated tenure as Manchester United manager away to Ipswich Town in the Premier League. The 39-year-old Portuguese manager will introduce himself to a fanbase anxiously hoping for a change of fortune after a dismal start to the campaign.
We’ll have to wait and see what kind of football we get, but it’s safe to say that to coach in the Premier League is one thing, but to do it as United’s manager is an entirely bigger mountain to climb. Why? Because this isn’t just about being 13th in the table, aching to enter the top four again. It’s not even about the shadows of Sir Alex Ferguson’s era continuously clouding the present. This is about a club with a prodigious history and a colossal global brand.
Amorim has 11 matches for the remainder of the calendar year to make an immediate impact, so why not predict their outcomes and compare them to previous Man United managers, including his mentor Jose Mourinho?
Before we begin, I am not using a statistical, data-driven, analytical formula here. This is driven by the ultimate guide that every analyst relies on: gut.
Ipswich Town, Nov. 24 (Premier League, Away)
This is the beginning of Amorim’s era and funnily enough it comes against Kieran McKenna, who was part of Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s coaching staff at Carrington. Due to the international break, Amorim will have only two days of full training sessions with the whole squad, meaning many players will have a limited understanding of his ideas and those on national team duty might not be at 100% fitness.
That’s why Amorim’s main task is to be defensively strong. Don’t concede and everything else will follow. United fans see fragments of his 3-4-3 vision, but it won’t be complete, and that’s OK. The 39-year-old wants to see character that he can build into an identity.
At halftime, it’s a stalemate, but as the game passes the hour mark, Amorim’s tactics come through. Marcus Rashford needs to make an impact for club and country, and Amorim challenges the English attacker, using him more centrally in this matchup.
It’s also an important game for Rasmus Højlund. With only one league goal all season, the Dane knows he needs to impress. Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes pulls all the strings, setting up a goal and scoring another. The new manager bounce pays off and Amorim’s United take the three points back to Manchester.
Predicted score: Ipswich Town 0-2 Man United
Bodo/Glimt, Nov. 28 (Europa League, Home)
For the first time, Old Trafford welcomes Amorim as its manager, which should make for an electric atmosphere. The crowd welcomes him with open arms and there’s a newfound sense of optimism. The charismatic Portuguese coach soaks it all in before kickoff and wants his team to make a statement.
It’s clear that the Premier League remains the biggest priority in his to-do list, but Amorim, who knows how special European nights can be, comes out with an attack-minded lineup. Look out for Alejandro Garnacho: His role under Amorim is intriguing to watch as he is required to cover a lot more ground on the left-hand side.
Man United are currently 15th in Europa League’s phase standings, one point below tonight’s visitors. Amorim won’t like that one bit, and he’ll make sure the squad holds nothing back. The Red Devils demolish the Norwegians, concluding the night with a strong victory and a satisfied Old Trafford.
Predicted score: Man United 4-0 Bodo Glimt
Everton, Dec. 1 (Premier League, H)
With momentum under their wings, Man United are feeling good and seeing as this is Amorim’s first league game at home, the team hope to make it three wins from three. But Sean Dyche aims to counter the Portuguese manager’s tactics with some resilient defending and counterattacking ploys of his own. He also knows that the last time these sides met, his Toffees should have gotten something out of it.
Last March under Erik Ten Hag, United came out victorious with a 2-0 win, but it wasn’t a convincing performance as it required two penalties as well as stout defending against Everton, who took 23 shots. But today is a different story. It’s a physical game and even though the visitors get the opening goal, in the end Man United seal the three points.
One of Amorim’s goals is to ensure his team gives a 90-minute performance and that’s what happens here. Hojlund is now finding his feet and scores twice for United. Amorim promised goals and that’s exactly what United fans are seeing, making it nine goals in three games.
Predicted score: Man United 3-1 Everton
Why Mark Ogden believes Ruben Amorim is the ‘real deal’
Mark Odgen praises the appointment of Ruben Amorim by Manchester United and says he’s inheriting a better situation than people think.
Arsenal, Dec. 4 (Premier League, A)
The biggest test of Amorim’s tenure comes only three days after the Everton victory against an Arsenal side desperate for results in order to keep in the title race and the top four. Meanwhile, United are also back in the European race thanks to the impressive start under their new manager.
However, Mikel Arteta’s Gunners have not lost at home all season and this game, which is a midweek affair in the busiest month of the Premier League calendar, is a real test of how Amorim can handle his squad. December is a nightmare because there are matches every three or four days, so a lot depends on the health of the roster. Arsenal are also undefeated against Man United in their last three encounters so they’re not exactly the dream opponent.
Regardless, this is also the type of fixture that Amorim relishes. This is why he took the job at Manchester United. He wants to awaken the giant. It ends as an entertaining affair with Manuel Ugarte, who played for Amorim at Sporting and delivered a man-of-the-match performance in 2023 against Arsenal, shining in this one, too. The Red Devils show more progress and salvage a draw.
Predicted score: Arsenal 2-2 Man United
Fatigued after the battle against Arsenal, Man United encounter an uncomfortable matchup against Amorim’s compatriot Nuno Espírito Santo as Nottingham Forest find themselves in surprising waters, high up the table. But Forest are also tired, having played against Man City in their previous fixture. Forest’s record away from City Ground is remarkable, but November and December are major tests for the Tricky Trees on the road.
This is not a game for aesthetics and quickly becomes a physical back and forth. There might be a red card in this one and Amorim will see how feisty this league can be. But after being part of many tough matchups in the Portuguese league as player and manager, he’s no stranger to a good scrap. Casemiro scores the winner and United see themselves in top-five territory.
Predicted score: Man United 2-1 Nottingham Forest
The matches continue to pile up but this is the last Europa League game of the year for Man United and Amorim wants to finish 2024 in strong fashion. A victory would further cement their place in the top eight, which would secure a Round of 16 spot.
But Czech side Viktoria Plzen are no pushovers, especially in this competition. They are undefeated and despite multiple draws, they beat Real Sociedad in the previous matchday. Ghanaian star Prince Adu is a handful and Man United, feeling the effects of a packed December schedule, find it hard to get much from this game. The home side score first and make it difficult for United to find opportunities, but the perseverance from Amorim’s team rewards them. Rashford finds the back of the net in the second half and the Red Devils earn a valuable point on matchday six.
Predicted score: Man United 1-1 Viktoria Plzen
The biggest game of Amorim’s career as Man United manager is here and if you think Pep Guardiola has forgotten what happened on Nov. 5 when Sporting destroyed Man City 4-1 in the Champions League, then think again.
That victory at José Alvalade Stadium remains a thorn in the Catalan manager’s side and he will want to make sure City respond in this highly-anticipated Manchester derby. Let’s not forget that this season has become one of the most competitive title races in recent history, too. The battle for top spot is tight, while the European places are contested by almost the entire top half of the table.
City need this game, while Amorim knows that a result can propel United’s momentum. They remain undefeated under the Portuguese head coach, but City have finally found form after the international break. Erling Haaland notches first for City, but Fernandes equalizes before the halftime whistle thanks to a penalty. It’s a relentless back and forth as Mateo Kovacic puts Man City ahead once again but Hojlund continues his strong streak and equalizes for the Red Devils.
Then, in the final moments of the game, a Hollywood finale presents itself as Garnacho writes himself in United folklore. Man United take three points and the game goes down as a classic.
Back when Amorim managed Braga, he led them to earn their first away victory at Benfica in 65 years, so nothing is impossible.
Predicted score: Man City 2-3 Man United
Bernardo Silva: I don’t wish Rúben Amorim well at Man United
Bernardo Silva speaks ahead of Man City’s clash with Sporting CP in Rúben Amorim’s penultimate game with the club.
United’s euphoria after their victory over Manchester City ends against Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham, who aims for a trophy in his second season as Spurs manager. There’s heavy squad rotation for United, as they have to prepare for a league game against Bournemouth in three days time.
This matchup comes too soon for the Red Devils, especially against an energetic, determined Tottenham who eased past a struggling Southampton side the game before. Spurs are at home and desperate for a trophy and as a result, Amorim suffers his first defeat. In the end, it might prove to be a blessing in disguise as Amorim’s goals for Man United go beyond the League Cup.
Predicted score: Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 Man United
Bournemouth, Dec. 22 (Premier League, H)
Andoni Iraola’s Cherries have kept improving week after week and they prove to be a challenging opponent for United. After rotating his team against Tottenham, Amorim brings back his best XI for this one. Ugarte and Luke Shaw deliver strong performances and despite conceding first, the Red Devils earn a victory and are now in top four territory.
By this game, United fans are finally seeing what consistency in the league looks like. There’s a long way to go, but the team is showing signs of a new era. Leny Yoro‘s return is a massive boost this month.
Predicted score: Man United 2-1 Bournemouth
Fixtures on Boxing Day are daunting as the wrath of December takes its toll on Premier League teams. Gary O’Neill’s Wolves are struggling this season but by the end of this month, they have found some momentum. Amorim’s first game at Molineux is a scrappy encounter and surprisingly, it’s his team that concedes first.
United find it hard to get going until the last 15 minutes when the substitutes impact the game. This match, however, turns into an anomaly under Amorim as United, looking tired, leave Wolverhampton with only a point.
Predicted score: Wolves 1-1 Man United
No money, no wing-backs: The challenges Amorim already faces at Man United
On “The Football Reporters”, Mark Ogden and Rob Dawson break down the challenges Ruben Amorim will have to overcome to make a fast start at Manchester United.
Historically speaking, this fixture has almost always delivered. Last May at Old Trafford, for example, United won 3-2 thanks to goals from Kobbie Mainoo, Amad and Hojlund to boost their European ambitions. In this encounter, Newcastle arrive at Manchester after a thrilling battle with Aston Villa at St. James’ Park on Boxing Day.
But Newcastle have done reasonably well in December and continue to have European aspirations of their own. So this game is another thriller that ultimately ends in a Manchester United win, thanks to a brace from Fernandes, another one from Rashford and a goal from Yoro, his first for the club.
Predicted score: Man United 4-2 Newcastle
How does Amorim’s predicted first 11 games compare to previous five permanent managers?
Record of Manchester United’s previous five managers in first 11 games (W-D-L):
Erik ten Hag, 2022: 7-0-4Ole Gunnar Solsjkaer (caretaker role), 2018-19: 10-1-0José Mourinho, 2016: 7-1-3Louis van Gaal, 2014: 3-4-5David Moyes, 2013: 6-2-3
LME’s prediction for Rúben Amorim’s record after 11 matches: 7-3-1
After making my predictions for Amorim’s first 11 games, we can see that his win record is the same as Erik ten Hag and Jose Mourinho’s. Only Ole Gunnar Solskajer has a better run after this number of games, and I don’t see any other head coach replicating what he did in that timeframe. It was quite remarkable, hence why Solskajer was offered the permanent job shortly after taking over.
However, I think Amorim’s immediate impact will be more impressive because he will instill identity into the way Man United play and make them a tougher side to win against. Confidence will return to Old Trafford. I think Amorim is the kind of manager that Man United have been waiting for. He is the man to finally help the club move beyond Sir Alex Ferguson’s shadow, and that’s not to say they need to forget what Ferguson brought to the club. This is about the future of Man United and how Amorim can bring in a new era of resilient optimism.
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Ahead of Rúben Amorim’s first game as manager of Manchester United, ESPN predicts the remaining 11 games in 2024 for the club and how they’ll fare.
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