Soccer

Subterms

    More stories

    • 213 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Tottenham 0 Arsenal 1: Gabriel’s bullet header seals crucial three points for Gunners in North London derby

      by

      HERE was a thoroughly impressive display of Arsenal’s title credentials. Just four games into a season in which they might not even have to finish above Manchester City to win the crown, Mikel Arteta’s side entered a seething Tottenham Hotspur Stadium without two of their best players and strolled away with all three points. Arsenal made the trip across North London to take on their bitter rivals TottenhamCredit: APThe game was a tetchy and tense affair in the first halfCredit: GETTYGabriel Martinelli wasted a golden opportunity to break the deadlock in the first halfCredit: GettyGabriel broke the deadlock shortly after the hour mark with a towering headerCredit: RexShorn of injured captain Martin Odegaard and the suspended Declan Rice, Arsenal claimed a third successive win at the home of their bitterest rivals thanks to a second-half header from Gabriel Magalhaes. As in the corresponding fixture last year, Arsenal’s set-piece prowess – and Tottenham’s deficiency in the same area, proved decisive.   Back in April, Arsenal cruised into a three-goal lead here, courtesy of two set-piece goals and this time, it was a single corner which proved the difference. Tottenham were bold and aggressive, they dominated possession and the shot-count but were ultimately beaten by a calmer, more methodical team. READ MORE ON SPURS VS ARSENALAnge Postceglou’s men have now lost their last seven matches against top-half sides and the big Aussie’s position will come under serious scrutiny before long if he cannot reverse that trend.  But, with champions City facing trial over their 115 Premier League charges, Arsenal – runners-up in the last two seasons – know that this could be their best chance to land a first Premier League title since Arsene Wenger’s Invincible campaign 21 years ago. Their first two away fixtures show how serious they are – wins at Aston Villa and Spurs are outstanding results. Postecoglou’s team sheet was adventurous, potentially reckless, but certainly in keeping with his club’s ‘To dare is to do’ ethos. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWith an attacking front five supported by marauding wing-backs, there was no chance of this Spurs line-up trying to bore Arsenal to death. If Arsenal had an unfamiliar look it was not just the absence of Rice and Odegaard but the black away kit they were forced to wear after a bizarre edict that their traditional colours contained too much white.Premier League’s Biggest Spenders: Top 10 SeasonsThe derby-day spite was ramped up in the tunnel when a lone Arsenal mascot started kicking off at a gang of his Tottenham counterparts.On the pitch, it was Spurs who started as if the importance of the fixture had been drilled into their skulls. They pressed and harried Arsenal as if fed on red meat and twice in the first seven minutes, Dejan Kulusevski forced David Raya into decent saves. First, Son Heung-Min cut back and the Arsenal keeper denied the Swede at his near post.    Then Kulusevski’s cross evaded everyone and Raya was forced into a sprawling stop.Arsenal had started scruffily, their passing off-beam, but soon they settled. Gabriel Martinelli, whose pace was causing havoc down the left, crossed and a downward header from Kai Havertz forced Guglielmo Vicario into an excellent diving stop.  Soon after Leandro Trossard released Martinelli but the Brazilian’s shot was too close to Vicario. The bookings swiftly began to mount up, ref Jarred Gillett strictly following the early-season edict of clamping down on the delaying of free-kicks.  By the break, the Aussie had dished out seven yellow cards – five of them to Spurs, the obvious downside of Postecoglou’s fire-and-brimstone approach. At times, it resembled one of those mass pancake-day matches between rival villages – with occasional outbreaks of handbags.Gabriel’s header fired the Gunners into second place in the Premier League tableCredit: AlamyIn keeping with this, Kulusevski then ploughed through three Arsenal defenders to tee up Brennan Johnson, who skied his shot. As in the first half, Spurs were at it straight from the restart.Dominic Solanke, on his home debut, robbed Trossard with a full-blooded tackle, then got on the end of a Porro cross, his header deflected wide. After the corner was taken short, Micky van de Ven’s header was kept out by a diving Raya.  But Arsenal were calmer, more methodical than their rivals. Havertz led a counter-attack from which they won a corner and scored. Bukayo Saka delivered into a crowded dancefloor and Gabriel timed his run, nudging Romero out of the way, leaping above Kulusevski and heading home from close range. The atmosphere was transformed. From bearpit to teddy bear’s picnic. Except for one delirious corner hosting the Gooners.Soon the home crowd were getting on the back of James Maddison, who chose a poor pass to Solanke when he ought to have shot. After the horse had bolted, Postecoglou sent on Pape Matar Sarr in an attempt to gain greater discipline in midfield.READ MORE SUN STORIESSoon, Arteta introduced Raheem Sterling for his Arsenal debut, as well as Gabriel Jesus and the boy-wonder Ethan Nwaneri. Spurs continued to do most of the attacking and Kulusevski fired over from the edge of the box. Mikel Arteta embraces his staff after the final whistleCredit: REUTERS More

    • 200 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Bukayo Saka leaves fans fearing worst as Arsenal star shakes head before being taken off injured

      by

      ARSENAL’S injury crisis may have just got even worse after Bukayo Saka was seemingly taken off injured in the Gunners’ 1-0 North London derby win.Saka was replaced by Ethan Nwaneri in the final 10 minutes of the match after dropping to floor and shaking his head, hinting at an injury.Bukayo Saka appeared to pick up an injury during the North London derbyCredit: PAThe star was taken off after going down in the middle of the pitchCredit: GettyYoungster Ethan Nwaneri replaced SakaCredit: GettyArsenal are already without Mikel Merino, Martin Odegaard, Riccardo Calafiori, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Oleksandr Zinchenko due to injury.And now Arsenal fans are fearing the worst with an away trip to Atalanta in the Champions League and a visit to Man City in the Premier League on the horizon.On social media, one supporter wrote: “I don’t like how much Saka is shaking his head…please don’t be serious.”While another added: “I hope Saka off is just a precaution and nothing serious…”.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA third fumed: “The Saka injury is the last thing we needed!”And a fourth posted: “I can’t lie that Saka injury is concerning.” With two tricky games around the corner Mikel Arteta will be hoping his star winger will be fit to take part.Arsenal managed to see out the final 10 minutes of the Spurs clash without the England international, grinding out a hard-earned 1-0 win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd the 23-year-old seemed in good spirits at full-time, smiling and walking around on the pitch – offering a glimmer of hope for concerned Gooners.However, Mikel Arteta didn’t exactly offer a positive update on the injury in his post-match press conference, casting even more doubt on Saka’s fitness.Piers Morgan says ‘even our mascot is harder than Tottenham’s’ as Arsenal kid pushes counterparts before derbyHe said: “I don’t know [what happened]. I made two changes with the front players and suddenly he’s down. I don’t know exactly what it is but he could not continue.”Captain Martin Odegaard has already been sidelined for a nasty ankle injury while on international duty with Norway.While Mikel Merino was the victim of a heavy fall during his first training session with the Gunners, causing the Spaniard to suffer a fractured shoulder.Fellow summer signing Riccardo Calafiori picked up a knock while away with Italy and was nowhere to be seen in today’s matchday squad.Oleksandr Zinchenko was another omission from the team with reports that he too has picked up an injury, while Takehiro Tomiyasu remains out with a knee problem.Arsenal, incredibly, still managed to come through as 1-0 victors in spite of all their absences .Gabriel Magalhaes nodded home a second-half header to win the game and earn his side the North London bragging rights.Gabriel Magalhaes fired home the winner for Arsenal against SpursCredit: GettyArsenal have a tricky run of fixtures on the horizon More

    • 263 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Meet Tyler Dibling, 18, who is dubbed the ‘new Jack Grealish’ and tormented Man Utd in his first Premier League start

      by

      TYLER DIBLING was handed his first Premier League start against Manchester United and made sure everyone took note.Southampton may have collapsed after their bright start, losing 3-0, but it was still an afternoon to remember for Dibling.Tyler Dibling has been tipped to be one of the Premier League’s bestCredit: AlamyHe gave Diogo Dalot a tough afternoon on his first Prem startCredit: GettyDiogo Dalot will be glad he does not have to see the winger again until January.He quick turns and direct runs causing the full-back all sort of issues, ending in Dibling winning a penalty from the Portuguese international, which was eventually missed by Cameron Archer.For a teenager tipped to go right to the top, this looks like only the start.PLAYING STYLE Despite being only 18, Dibling is built like a far more senior player – making him a nightmare for defenders to wrestle off the ball.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWith his socks tucked almost around his ankles – inspired by former academy teammate Jimmy Jay Morgan – and a swashbuckling style on the ball, it is hard to avoid comparisons to Jack Grealish.At his best, Dibling looks like a throwback to Grealish at Aston Villa, bursting with confidence and given licence to roam and make things happen.While he looks unfazed on the ball, the youngster is more of an introverted character away from the pitch – but Russell Martin’s style is getting the best from him.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHis apparent ability to impact games with creativity on the ball has fans also comparing him to fellow academy graduate Adam Lallana, who has returned ten years after his departure this season and is helping out the youngsters at St Mary’s.Most read in FootballDibling said recently: “Lallana has been most helpful. He’s done it at the top level already and is always asking me questions and giving us advice.”Dibling has been compared to Jack Grealish when he was at Aston VillaCredit: GettyRISE TO THE TOPDibling really caught the eye outside of keen academy watchers with an incredible identical hat-trick at Newcastle two years ago.In a Premier League 2 game at St James’ Park, his first start for the Saints Under-21s, the midfielder drove forwards to the edge of the box and picked out the bottom right corner – three times.Boy Wonders: Spurs star Will Lankshear the next Harry Kane?That moment drew interest from the Magpies as well as Chelsea.Growing up idolising Eden Hazard, Dibling left the Saints for the Blues but returned just two months later, having struggled to settle due to homesickness while he was not getting enough minutes.Following his return, Dibling has had to wait for his chance but has now been brought into the first-team fold by Martin and has looked Southampton’s sharpest attacking talent this season.HIGH PRAISE Former Southampton first-team and academy coach David Horseman was in charge when Dibling scored his incredible identical hat-trick.He told SunSport: “To watch it, we knew he had the potential but to execute it at St James’ Park against young men, it was jaw-dropping. To do it three times is mind-blowing.”That was the bit which ticked a lot of boxes for clubs outside.”Tyler could be a top Premier League player, under the current manager and his style he could be a star of the future for sure.”He could go all the way, he looks like he’s loving life and he’s found his perfect fit. He looks like he could be the next big thing out of Southampton.”Team-mate Yuki Sugawara added: “I cannot believe he is still 18-years-old. He is a top, top, top player already and showed some really good stuff in the game and created big chances and he got a penalty.“He also defended well and is a top talent. He will be one of the best players in the Premier League. Yuki Sugawara says he was wowed by Dibling from their first training session togetherCredit: Getty”I really enjoyed the game with him. I felt comfortable playing on the right with him. We had good communications.“He was just incredible when I saw his first session. I asked how old he was and he said 18. I said ‘that is crazy’.”For sure he will be one of the best players in the Premier League or the world. “His mentality is top level. He is still young but I think he will be a top, top player.”WHAT’S NEXT?Next year could bring anything for the England Under-19 international. Saints fans will pray he is not another one who breaks out of the academy only to move on – but clubs will be watching carefully.READ MORE SUN STORIESFor the here and now, the big challenge is how much exposure Martin is prepared to give Dibling.After a first Prem start everyone will want to see him in the XI every week, though the manager is cautious as to just what his young body can handle.Adam Lallana (left) has been giving Dibling adviceCredit: Rex More

    • 213 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Fans fume at ‘pure robbery’ after Arsenal star Jurrien Timber avoids red card after referee ‘bottles it’

      by

      JURRIEN TIMBER should have been sent off against Tottenham as fans claim the referee “bottled” showing him a red card.The defender featured in his first North London Derby and sparked a melee with a tackle in the first half.Fans claimed Jurrien Timber should have seen red for his tackle on Pedro PorroCredit: X @SkySportsPLJamie Redknapp believes he was ‘lucky’ not to be sent offCredit: X @SkySportsPLTimber risked a second yellow card after he grabbed Gugliemo Vicario by his shirtCredit: GettyThe incident sparked a mass brawl but only Vicario was bookedCredit: X @SkySportsPLHe went into a 50-50 challenge with Pedro Porro and the Spurs defender came off second best.Timber caught him on the ankle after he went over the ball with his studs, which referee Jarred Gillett deemed a yellow card.Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp believes the Arsenal star was “lucky” to escape a red card, claiming other refs would have sent him off.He said: “It’s an unusual action because he does definitely go over the top of the ball. He rolls his foot, it’s an unusual action you would usually come in with a side foot to make a challenge like this.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”He is very very lucky. Has he gone in with excessive force to do him like in the olden days? No.”He has given the referee a massive decision to make. I think he’s incredibly lucky because other referees might have sent him off.”He doesn’t need to go in like that, it’s such a strange one. Has he caught him badly? No, but it’s not the point.”It’s excessive force, I think he’s lucky.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSArsenal ratings vs Spurs as Gabriel is the hero in feisty North London derbyGABRIEL headed in the only goal of the game as a depleted Arsenal snatched all three points in the North London Derby.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the Gunners players…DAVID RAYA – 8/10Commanded his area well, and was a safe pair of hands throughout the game. Another great showing in what has been a spectacular start for the Spanish stopper. JURRIEN TIMBER – 7Did well from an attacking perspective, charging down the left hand side on various occasions. Solid defensively too against Spurs’ flying right side of Johnson and Porro.Some would argue he should’ve been sent off for a challenge on Pedro Porro in the first half, but he escaped despite squaring up to Vicario in the aftermath.WILLIAM SALIBA – 8A really good recovery challenge in the first half to deny Dominic Solanke, despite being booked early on.You can always count on Saliba to put in a solid display, and he didn’t disappoint today with fantastic passing out from the back too. GABRIEL – 9A fantastic defensive showing throughout, reinforced with a towering header inside the box to give his side the lead from a set piece (shock). Has formed an impeccable partnership with Saliba, personified by their heartwarming celebration together after the opener. He’s the man. BEN WHITE – 6Gave away the ball in a dangerous position in the first half, with Solanke failing to capitalise and had a tough first half against the quick feet of Heung Min-Son.Was not able to demonstrate the dangerous right-hand side overlap we saw work so effectively last season, but wasn’t threatened in the second 45.JORGINHO – 4Struggled to replace the suspended Declan Rice for this North London derby, whom the Gunners really missed.A tough task, but didn’t come close to matching Rice’s intensity or ability to drive the ball up the pitch which left Arsenal weak in the forward areas.THOMAS PARTEY – 5Struggled in transition with Jorginho alongside him, another player who felt the full force of no Rice and Odegaard.Not fast enough with or without the ball, and will need to perk his ideas up for City next week. GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 6Looked like a bright spark with his running and forward movement, but was let down by his end product or lack thereof.Worked really really hard throughout, just looks short of confidence in the last actions. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Dropping deeper into more of a midfield role than he’s used to today, it should be noted that he did a job for the team when they needed him. Not the flying efficiency machine we have seen him be from the bench, but his versatility will be needed this season it seems. BUKAYO SAKA – 7Didn’t make the kind of impact on the game we are used to seeing from the brilliant Bukayo Saka, and looked less of a threat without Martin Odegaard to combine with. Did some really good defensive work nonetheless, and delivered the perfect corner to claim the assist for Gabriel’s opener. KAI HAVERTZ – 6A good header in the first half was saved well by Vicario in the spurs net – actually made more clearances (3) than he managed shots on target (2) in the first 45. Was a handful for the Spurs defence, but largely nullified by the pace and power of Mickey Van de Ven and Cristian Romero. Some fans agreed with Redknapp while others argued Timber should have picked up a second booking for his coming together with Tottenham keeper Gugliemo Vicario.He grabbed the Italian by the shirt in an aggressive coming together yet only Vicario was yellow carded.Piers Morgan says ‘even our mascot is harder than Tottenham’s’ as Arsenal kid pushes counterparts before derbySupporters claim the ref bottled the double booking for Timber, suggesting he was fortunate to stay on the pitch.One fan said: “Timber didn’t get a red card for all these btw. Pure robbery.”Another added: “Bad tackle, yellow. Grab a player’s shirt, 2nd yellow. But only player booked was Vicario. If you book one, you give the 2nd yellow to Timber. Ref bottled it. Pure and simple.”A third wrote: “If Vicario is booked (and he should be), Timber should get a second yellow.” More

    • 250 Shares119 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘Is this a common phrase?’ – Gary Neville confuses fans after accusing Tottenham star of ‘having frogs in his pants’

      by

      GARY NEVILLE left fans baffled by his bizarre turn of phrase on commentary.The former Manchester United defender, 49, was on the gantry alongside Peter Drury for Sky Sports during the North London Derby. Guglielmo Vicario organised his defenders at a cornerCredit: RexGary Neville produced the strange piece of commentaryCredit: SplashTempers had already flared before kick-off in the tunnel with the MASCOTS and then again as Jurrien Timber sparked a mass brawl.And Tottenham were desperate to get in at half-time goalless and allow things to calm down.So goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario was busy organising his defenders as Spurs prepared to face an Arsenal corner. But Neville made the most of the opportunity to deliver his strange line.READ MORE ON ARSENALHe said: “Look at Vicario. He’s got frogs in his pants.”The insinuation being that Vicario was very busy and frantically moving around nervously in the goalmouth. But why he used “frogs” rather than “ants” left supporters watching the match on TV confused.One said: “Is ‘frogs in his pants’ a common phrase or is this like mini retirement again from Neville?”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArsenal ratings vs Spurs as Gabriel is the hero in feisty North London derbyGABRIEL headed in the only goal of the game as a depleted Arsenal snatched all three points in the North London Derby.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the Gunners players…DAVID RAYA – 8/10Commanded his area well, and was a safe pair of hands throughout the game. Another great showing in what has been a spectacular start for the Spanish stopper. JURRIEN TIMBER – 7Did well from an attacking perspective, charging down the left hand side on various occasions. Solid defensively too against Spurs’ flying right side of Johnson and Porro.Some would argue he should’ve been sent off for a challenge on Pedro Porro in the first half, but he escaped despite squaring up to Vicario in the aftermath.WILLIAM SALIBA – 8A really good recovery challenge in the first half to deny Dominic Solanke, despite being booked early on.You can always count on Saliba to put in a solid display, and he didn’t disappoint today with fantastic passing out from the back too. GABRIEL – 9A fantastic defensive showing throughout, reinforced with a towering header inside the box to give his side the lead from a set piece (shock). Has formed an impeccable partnership with Saliba, personified by their heartwarming celebration together after the opener. He’s the man. BEN WHITE – 6Gave away the ball in a dangerous position in the first half, with Solanke failing to capitalise and had a tough first half against the quick feet of Heung Min-Son.Was not able to demonstrate the dangerous right-hand side overlap we saw work so effectively last season, but wasn’t threatened in the second 45.JORGINHO – 4Struggled to replace the suspended Declan Rice for this North London derby, whom the Gunners really missed.A tough task, but didn’t come close to matching Rice’s intensity or ability to drive the ball up the pitch which left Arsenal weak in the forward areas.THOMAS PARTEY – 5Struggled in transition with Jorginho alongside him, another player who felt the full force of no Rice and Odegaard.Not fast enough with or without the ball, and will need to perk his ideas up for City next week. GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 6Looked like a bright spark with his running and forward movement, but was let down by his end product or lack thereof.Worked really really hard throughout, just looks short of confidence in the last actions. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Dropping deeper into more of a midfield role than he’s used to today, it should be noted that he did a job for the team when they needed him. Not the flying efficiency machine we have seen him be from the bench, but his versatility will be needed this season it seems. BUKAYO SAKA – 7Didn’t make the kind of impact on the game we are used to seeing from the brilliant Bukayo Saka, and looked less of a threat without Martin Odegaard to combine with. Did some really good defensive work nonetheless, and delivered the perfect corner to claim the assist for Gabriel’s opener. KAI HAVERTZ – 6A good header in the first half was saved well by Vicario in the spurs net – actually made more clearances (3) than he managed shots on target (2) in the first 45. Was a handful for the Spurs defence, but largely nullified by the pace and power of Mickey Van de Ven and Cristian Romero. That is a reference to Neville’s infamous comment to the Diary of a CEO podcast that he goes on holiday – also known as taking “mini retirements”.Another viewer wrote: “Cheers Gary.”How much every Premier League club earns in shirt sponsorsA third added: “What does that even mean? Is it a Manchester thing?”And a fourth typed: “I get that he hasn’t looked particularly composed from set pieces… but Gary Neville saying Vicario looks like he’s ‘got frogs in his pants’ because he’s instructing his defenders where to be… whilst funny… feels harsh! Every goalkeeper commands his defenders pre corners!”Incredibly, a tweet from May references Neville mentioning “frogs in his pants” again – implying he may well have used the unusual phrase on commentary at the end of last season as well. Vicario did not organise his defenders well enough at a corner during the second half, though.He got crowded out in his own six-yard box as Gabriel made a run on Cristian Romero and headed powerfully into the back of the net as Arsenal took the lead. More

    • 200 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      North London derby descends into chaos as Arsenal star grabs Tottenham goalkeeper Vicario after nasty tackle

      by

      THE North London derby descended into CHAOS in the first half after a face-off between Jurrien Timber and Guglielmo Vicario sparked fury.Players from both teams rushed into a melee by the goal line after Timber had put in a reckless challenge and been confronted by the Spurs keeper.Arsenal and Tottenham players clashed during the first half of the North London derbyCredit: X @SkySportsPLHeated exchanges took place before the situation was calmed downCredit: X @SkySportsPLJurrien Timber had been confronted by Spurs keeper Guglielmo Vicario for a tackle he made on Pedro PorroCredit: GettyThe pair went head to headCredit: GettyBukayo Saka was one of many payers to step in and protect his teammateCredit: ReutersThe incident was sparked from Timber leaving Pedro Porro on the floor after a tackle that was deemed as ‘reckless’ by VARCredit: AFPTimber’s leg came close to rolling over the ball and hurting Porro during the challengeCredit: XIt wouldn’t be the North London derby without some boiling tempers and on-pitch drama – and Timber ensured that this clash was no different.The Dutchman went into a 50/50 challenge with Pedro Porro and saw his foot slide on top of the ball, giving Jarred Gillett no choice but to reach for a yellow card.However, Timber had other ideas, continuing with the ball at his feet until he reached the byline next to Vicario’s goal.The Spurs keeper was less than impressed with what he had seen from Timber and confronted his Arsenal counterpart.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe versatile Gunners full-back didn’t take kindly to being questioned and immediately grabbed Vicario’s shirt round the collar with both hands.The fracas sparked a reaction from both teams with players from both sides rushing to their team-mates’ aid.Thankfully things didn’t get much further than some heated exchanges before referee Gillett was able to calm things down.Ultimately the Aussie official dished out a yellow card for Timber’s tackle and another one to Vicario for his aggressive confrontation of the Dutchman.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSpurs fans watching on began chanting for Timber to be dismissed, but a lengthy VAR check ruled that the tackle was “reckless” rather than “dangerous” – meaning a yellow card was the appropriate punishment.However, the Dutchman could easily have received an immediate second booking for his confrontation with Vicario.Mikel Arteta signs three-year Arsenal contract amid fears he would join Barcelona in boost ahead of North London derbyGillett wasn’t scared to dip in his pocket throughout the first half, giving out SEVEN yellow cards in the first 45 minutes.That tied the all-time Premier League record.As for the football, it was a relatively even first half – perhaps a surprise given Arsenal’s depleted options in the middle of the park.Neither side were able to break the deadlock before the break, setting up a huge second half for the bragging rights of North London.And it was Arsenal who took advantage, despite fielding an injury-depleted side. Towering centre-half Gabriel rose head and shoulders above everyone else to nod home a second half header – the only goal of the game.The Gunners worked hard for their 1-0 victory, especially given the absences of Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice, Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino.Both Vicatrio and Timber were shown yellow for the scuffleCredit: Getty More

    • 263 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      I’m a football agent – Dubai will be world’s next footie capital with Prem stars in sight… they’ll get ‘unlimited’ cash

      by

      DUBAI could become the world’s next football capital, but it will need to play catch up with Saudi Arabia, a football agent has said.Charles Cardoso says the Emirate city is the talk of the town as it’s investing millions in football in a bid to not to be left behind by the booming Saudis.Dubai could become the world’s next football capital, according to an agentCredit: GettyThe expert told The Sun the Emirate town has all the potential to grow a competitive industryCredit: AlamyPlayers of Al Ahli Dubai celebrates as they receive the cup after their victory following the Arabian Gulf Super Cup in 2016Credit: GettyFootball agent Charles Cardoso said Dubai has plenty of money to spend in the sportCredit: AlamyDubai was once one of the promising football powerhouses as it had its “Golden Age” in the sport  from the late 1970s to the early 1990s. The difference, Cardoso told The Sun, was that Saudi Arabia was the one able to properly attract the West to the Middle East.He said: “The Saudis attracted the big names and managed to gain prominence.“And that’s Dubai’s focus now – bringing in its own top-level athletes and taking the spotlight back to them.read more on Saudi Arabia“In this transfer window alone, I had requests from several athletes whose names I cannot reveal at the moment, but two of them play for top-league Brazilian clubs and another in the Premier League.“The agents in Dubai even told me: ‘Don’t worry about the money’.”Saudi Arabia’s aggressive and strategic investments in football have made it more difficult for Dubai and the UAE to maintain their earlier prominence in the sport.This shift has created a more competitive landscape in the Gulf, with Saudi Arabia emerging as a dominant force in regional football.Most read in FootballCardoso explained: “After Saudi Arabia signed big names like Cristiano Ronaldo, Dubai fell into oblivion, so Dubai’s intention today is to take their name back to the world stage and rekindle the flame of football in the Emirates.”Dubai has the potential to be as strong as its Saudi counterpart, the football agent said, as the city is also very strong financially as it is also a major oil exporter.Cristiano Ronaldo leaves fans convinced he’s ‘racking up the retirement money’ as he throws weight behind latest projectBut it missed the chance to get the big football stars back in the day as great offers were first made to the Emirates.Cardoso said: “They decided to begin investing in the sport again soon after Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo were signed to play in Saudi Arabia.“But Dubai has lost momentum and now that the Saudis are skyrocketing, it will need to play some catch-up to get back on track.“It had the chance to get the big football stars, but clubs and agents in Dubai did not believe that the big players would be so successful in the Middle East.“At that time the focus was on Europe, with the Prem and Spain’s La Liga being the big favourites.”Cardoso, who owns a football club in his native Brazil, says any top-level athlete who goes to play in Dubai will have a very similar lifestyle as those who go to Saudi Arabia.The warm climate is very appealing as many players adapt very easily.The amenities that Dubai offers – cars, housing, security – are also a big selling point, according to the agent.And just like in Saudi Arabia, he said, top-level players in Dubai pay no fees and receive very competitive salaries, approximately $1 million per month, or around $250,000 per week.But one advantage that Dubai may have over Saudi Arabia is that it is a slightly more westernised community.Football agent Charles Cardoso said Dubai has a big potential to become a football powerhouseCredit: SuppliedBut it will need to play catch with booming Saudi ArabiaCredit: Getty – ContributorFans of United Arab Emirates Shabab Al Ahli Dubai during during last year’s round of 16 AFC Champions LeagueCredit: GettyCardoso revealed: “There might be less chance of wives being required to wear a headscarf or covered clothing.”The football agent hopes Dubai gets the spotlight back, as he believes it has a huge chance of becoming the next great football capital.He said: “It will need to chase Saudi Arabia, but I don’t think Dubai will have much difficulty, as the Emirates have as much money as the Saudis.“Dubai also already has clubs with great infrastructure and means to improve the sport, they just need dedication and time to bring the spotlight back to the United Arab Emirates.”DUBAI’S GOLDEN AGE OF FOOTBALLDubai’s “Golden Age of Football” is generally considered to be the period from the late 1970s to the early 1990s. This era was marked by the rise of strong local clubs, increased investment in football infrastructure, and the emergence of talented players who gained recognition both regionally and internationally.During this time, clubs like Al Nasr, Al Wasl, and Al Shabab became dominant forces in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) football scene. Al Wasl, in particular, was highly successful, winning several league titles and cups.The UAE national team also saw significant progress, with a key highlight being their qualification for the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Italy, marking the first time the UAE participated in the tournament.This period was also marked by a strong sense of local pride in football, with packed stadiums and a vibrant football culture that permeated through Dubai and the wider UAE.But Dubai’s golden era soon fell into decline in the 1990s and early 2000s, sending the promising Middle Eastern football capital into oblivion.The rapid economic growth and urbanisation in Dubai and the UAE led to significant social changes.As Dubai evolved into a global financial and tourism hub, there was a shift in public interests and priorities.The influx of expatriates with different cultural backgrounds also diversified the local population’s interests, leading to less focus on local football.The rise of other sports, such as cricket and basketball, along with the growing availability of international sports broadcasts, gave people more options for entertainment – diluting the previously concentrated interest in football.As Dubai’s clubs sought to maintain their dominance, there was an increasing reliance on foreign players, which sometimes stunted the development of local talent. While these players brought short-term success, it led to a decline in the nurturing of homegrown talent that had been key to the earlier successes.After the UAE’s successful qualification for the 1990 World Cup, the national team struggled to replicate this success. The lack of strong performances on the international stage dampened the excitement and investment in local football.Some clubs faced administrative challenges and financial mismanagement, which affected their operations and ability to attract top talent, both locally and internationally.This instability often led to inconsistent performances and reduced fan engagement.Football in Dubai, like in many parts of the world, became more commercialised. READ MORE SUN STORIESThe focus shifted from community-based clubs and local talent development to commercialization and profit-making. This shift alienated some fans who felt disconnected from the increasingly corporatised football scene.Dubai had its ‘golden age’ of football back in the late 70sCredit: AlamyThe 10 biggest deals in Saudi Arabian footballSAUDI Arabia has made significant investments in football, particularly in recent years, aiming to raise the profile of its domestic league.Some of the biggest transfers include:Cristiano Ronaldo: Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in December 2022 on a free transfer after leaving Manchester United. His contract reportedly included a salary worth around $200 million (£158m) per year, including commercial deals.Karim Benzema: Benzema signed with Al-Ittihad in June 2023 on a free transfer from Real Madrid. His salary was reported to be around $200 (£158m) million over two years.Neymar: Neymar moved to Al-Hilal in August 2023 for an estimated transfer fee of around £90 million ($100 million). His contract was worth approximately £150 million ($165 million) per year.Sadio Mané: Mané joined Al-Nassr from Bayern Munich in 2023 for a fee of approximately £30 million ($32 million).Sergej Milinković-Savić: Milinković-Savić moved to Al-Hilal from Lazio in 2023 for around £40 million ($43 million).Aleksandar Mitrović: Mitrović moved to Al-Hilal from Fulham in 2023 for around £46 million ($55 million).Jordan Henderson: Henderson transferred to Al-Ettifaq from Liverpool in 2023 for an estimated fee of £12 million ($15 million).Kalvin Phillips: Phillips transferred to Al-Ittihad from Manchester City in 2023 for around £45 million ($55 million).Roberto Firmino: Firmino joined Al-Ahli on a free transfer in 2023 after leaving Liverpool, with his contract reportedly worth around £20 million ($22 million) per year.Edouard Mendy: Mendy transferred to Al-Ahli from Chelsea in 2023 for a fee of around £18 million ($19.5 million). More

    • 213 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Piers Morgan says ‘even our mascot is harder than Tottenham’s’ as Arsenal kid pushes counterparts before derby

      by

      PIERS MORGAN joked “even our mascot is harder than Tottenham’s” after Sky Sports cameras caught an Arsenal kid SHOVING his counterpart.The North London Derby is always a feisty affair on the field.An Arsenal mascot pushed his Tottenham counterpart in the tunnelCredit: X @SkySportsPLThe Spurs youngsters high-fived some of the Arsenal subsCredit: X @SkySportsPLBut the Gunners mascot showed the rivalry continues off it, too – and starts at a very young age.The Sky cameras gave a look inside the tunnel before the players lined up to come out for kick-off in the crunch clash at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.And the Arsenal youngster, decked out in the away kit like his heroes, proved he was up for the fight.After seeing the Spurs kids high-five a few of the Arsenal subs, the visiting mascot ran over towards his rivals.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThen he jokingly shoved one of the Tottenham counterparts and gave it large ahead of one of the biggest games of the season.That prompted Arsenal-mad Piers to tweet a series of laughing emojis then added: “Even our mascots are harder than Tottenham’s…”And that prompted a wave of replies from fellow excited Gooners.One said: “Yes 100%. Arsenal blood.”Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesAnother added: “He’s so cheeky.”A third wrote: “The hatred is real.”Mikel Arteta signs three-year Arsenal contract amid fears he would join Barcelona in boost ahead of North London derbyArsenal ratings vs Spurs as Gabriel is the hero in feisty North London derbyGABRIEL headed in the only goal of the game as a depleted Arsenal snatched all three points in the North London Derby.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the Gunners players…DAVID RAYA – 8/10Commanded his area well, and was a safe pair of hands throughout the game. Another great showing in what has been a spectacular start for the Spanish stopper. JURRIEN TIMBER – 7Did well from an attacking perspective, charging down the left hand side on various occasions. Solid defensively too against Spurs’ flying right side of Johnson and Porro.Some would argue he should’ve been sent off for a challenge on Pedro Porro in the first half, but he escaped despite squaring up to Vicario in the aftermath.WILLIAM SALIBA – 8A really good recovery challenge in the first half to deny Dominic Solanke, despite being booked early on.You can always count on Saliba to put in a solid display, and he didn’t disappoint today with fantastic passing out from the back too. GABRIEL – 9A fantastic defensive showing throughout, reinforced with a towering header inside the box to give his side the lead from a set piece (shock). Has formed an impeccable partnership with Saliba, personified by their heartwarming celebration together after the opener. He’s the man. BEN WHITE – 6Gave away the ball in a dangerous position in the first half, with Solanke failing to capitalise and had a tough first half against the quick feet of Heung Min-Son.Was not able to demonstrate the dangerous right-hand side overlap we saw work so effectively last season, but wasn’t threatened in the second 45.JORGINHO – 4Struggled to replace the suspended Declan Rice for this North London derby, whom the Gunners really missed.A tough task, but didn’t come close to matching Rice’s intensity or ability to drive the ball up the pitch which left Arsenal weak in the forward areas.THOMAS PARTEY – 5Struggled in transition with Jorginho alongside him, another player who felt the full force of no Rice and Odegaard.Not fast enough with or without the ball, and will need to perk his ideas up for City next week. GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 6Looked like a bright spark with his running and forward movement, but was let down by his end product or lack thereof.Worked really really hard throughout, just looks short of confidence in the last actions. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Dropping deeper into more of a midfield role than he’s used to today, it should be noted that he did a job for the team when they needed him. Not the flying efficiency machine we have seen him be from the bench, but his versatility will be needed this season it seems. BUKAYO SAKA – 7Didn’t make the kind of impact on the game we are used to seeing from the brilliant Bukayo Saka, and looked less of a threat without Martin Odegaard to combine with. Did some really good defensive work nonetheless, and delivered the perfect corner to claim the assist for Gabriel’s opener. KAI HAVERTZ – 6A good header in the first half was saved well by Vicario in the spurs net – actually made more clearances (3) than he managed shots on target (2) in the first 45. Was a handful for the Spurs defence, but largely nullified by the pace and power of Mickey Van de Ven and Cristian Romero. A fourth quipped: “What a blinder. This kid deserves a medal.”And a final user labelled the mascot a “legend”. But one Spurs fan hit back, jokingly calling the child “feral” for his rascal behaviour. Ten minutes before half-time, tempers flared on the field, too.Jurrien Timber was penalised for a questionable foul on Pedro Porro but did not hear the whistle and carried on into the Tottenham penalty area.He then squared up to Guglielmo Vicario, grabbing his shirt before players from both sides piled into the brawl – and both antagonists were booked.Timber got the last laugh though, as his team-mate Gabriel headed in the only goal of the game. The Gunners kid gave it large to his Tottenham counterpartsCredit: X @SkySportsPLA member of Spurs staff came across to separate the rivalsCredit: X @SkySportsPL More