La Liga

Subterms

    More stories

    • 250 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Barcelona fans hail ‘our new queen’ as it emerges Gundogan’s stunning wife is to thank for his Arsenal transfer snub

      by

      BARCELONA fans thanked Ilkay Gundogan’s wife after reports she helped convince her husband to sign for the Spanish champions.Gundogan, 32, is said to have reached an agreement with the Catalan giants as he prepares to complete a free transfer.
      Ilkay Gundogan’s wife Sara Arfaoui has been praised by Barcelona fansCredit: Getty
      She is said to have been integral in her husband moving to the LaLiga championsCredit: Getty
      His Manchester City contract expires at the end of June.
      The German international was heavily linked with a move to City’s Premier League rivals Arsenal.
      But Spanish media have now claimed his wife Sara Arfaoui – a French model and TV presenter – has been calling on Gundogan to join Barcelona “for years”.
      She is said to have been the “one who pushed the hardest to make it happen”.
      READ MORE ON MAN CITY
      And supporters of the LaLiga winners were quick to praise her for helping complete her husband’s transfer – which is set to be a two-year deal.
      One said: “Our new queen.”
      Another added: “Ladies and gents, we have a new favourite 💐.”
      A third responded: “Her Majesty The Queen. Thank you for your service.”
      Most read in Football
      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST NO DEPOSIT CASINO OFFERS
      Sara married Gundogan last yearCredit: Instagram @sarabenamira
      She is understood to have wanted to move to Barcelona for a number of yearsCredit: Instagram @sarabenamira
      Sara has immediately received positives messages from Barcelona fansCredit: Rex
      And a fourth replied: “Legend in my book.”
      Gundogan, 32, who came to England from Borussia Dortmund in 2016, was instrumental in Man City’s historic Treble-winning season – in which they captured the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup.
      The former Borussia Dortmund lit the blue touch paper in the FA Cup final against Manchester United with a superb volley after just 12 seconds – before he added the winner in the second half.
      But he was coy about his future after helping City secure their second of three trophies.
      He said: “To be honest, I don’t need these kinds of days to feel appreciated and to feel special in this club.
      “I know that, that’s why I’m here seven years, all the ups and downs that I’ve had so far.
      “Nothing is decided yet, so we’re going to see what is going to happen.”
      Sara is a French model and TV presenterCredit: Instagram @sarabenamira
      Sara has nearly 650,000 followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram @sarabenamira More

    • 238 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      lkay Gundogan’s transfer to Barcelona ‘CONFIRMED’ in bitter blow for Arsenal as LaLiga giants swoop in at eleventh hour

      by

      BARCELONA have reportedly agreed a deal to sign Ilkay Gundogan, it’s been claimed.The Manchester City midfielder is set to become a free agent at the end of the month following the expiration of his contract at Eastlands.
      Ilkay Gundogan will become a free agent at the end of the monthCredit: GETTY
      Spanish giants Barcelona have reportedly swooped for the Germany internationalCredit: REX
      The 32-year-old is said to have agreed a two-year deal at the Nou CampCredit: REX
      Gundogan was offered a new one-year deal at the Etihad but snubbed the offer in order to move onto pastures new.
      And according to reports, the Germany international has decided to join Spanish giants Barcelona.
      It’s claimed Gundogan has inked a two-year deal at the Nou Camp with the option of a further 12 months.
      Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano tweeted: “Ilkay Gundogan to Barcelona, here we go!
      “Final approval arrived on [the] club side to register him as [a] new signing, green light from the player.
      “It’s done deal, signed [a] few minutes ago.
      “Gundogan has agreed a two-year deal valid until June 2025 with option for [a] further year.”
      Barcelona’s reported snapping up of Gundogan will be a hammer blow to City’s Premier League rivals Arsenal.
      Most read in Football
      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST NO DEPOSIT CASINO OFFERS
      Gunners boss Mikel Arteta was hoping to lure the City fan favourite to the Emirates this summer to boost his side’s chances of Prem glory next season.
      But the prospect of playing his football at the Nou Camp and winning a third domestic title in as many countries has seemingly been too much for the midfielder to resist.
      Gundogan, 32, was instrumental in Manchester City’s historic treble-winning season – in which they captured the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup.
      The former Borussia Dortmund lit the blue touch paper in the FA Cup final against Manchester United earlier this month with a superb volley after just 12 seconds.
      Ilkay Gundogan lifted the Champions League trophy in his final Manchester City appearanceCredit: GETTY
      But he was coy about his future after helping City secure their second of three trophies.
      He said: “To be honest, I don’t need these kinds of days to feel appreciated and to feel special in this club.
      “I know that, that’s why I’m here seven years, all the ups and downs that I’ve had so far.
      “Nothing is decided yet, so we’re going to see what is going to happen.” More

    • 238 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Tottenham flop closes in on shock Barcelona transfer as Xavi seeks ‘low cost’ option after missing out on Neves

      by

      BARCELONA are closing in on a transfer for Tottenham flop Giovani Lo Celso, according to reports.The LaLiga giants are keen to bolster their midfield this summer.
      Giovani Lo Celso could join Barcelona from Tottenham this summerCredit: PA
      And Mundo Deportivo state Xavi has identified Lo Celso as a suitable low-cost option and ideal addition to the squad.
      Ruben Neves was a target but the Catalan club have set their eyes on Lo Celso after Wolves sold their captain to Al-Hilal for £47million.
      The Argentine playmaker, 27, has spent the last 18 months on loan at Villarreal and has impressed with his performances.
      And it is unlikely Tottenham would stand in his way of leaving this summer, two years before his contract expires.
      READ MORE TOTTENHAM NEWS
      The former PSG and Real Betis star has managed just nine goals in 84 appearances, initially joining Spurs on loan in 2019 and then completing a £27m transfer a year later.
      Lo Celso would be up against the likes of Gavi, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Franck Kessie for a place in the Spanish giants’ midfield.
      But the news of Barcelona’s interest will come as a big blow to Aston Villa.
      Unai Emery was keen to be reunited with Lo Celso after getting the best out of him at Villarreal.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      But the chance to join the LaLiga champions and compete in the Champions League at the Nou Camp could be the perfect move for Lo Celso to end his struggles in the Premier League.
      And Barcelona could sweeten the deal for Tottenham by offering Clement Lenglet to the North Londoners.
      French defender spent last season on loan at Spurs and the club are keen to make the switch permanent.
      Barca, though, may try and land 44-cap Lo Celso – who missed the World Cup with injury – on loan instead due to their financial struggles. More

    • 238 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Neymar ‘is not giving up on sensational transfer return to Barcelona’ with PSG eager to ‘get rid of Brazilian’

      by

      NEYMAR has not given up hope of a sensational return to Barcelona this summer.This comes despite Barcelona manager Xavi brutally shutting down rumours of Neymar’s return earlier this month.
      PSG are encouraging Neymar to find a new club this summerCredit: Getty
      Commenting on rumours that Neymar would offer himself to Barcelona, Xavi said: “I’m surprised… he’s not in our plan.
      “I really like Ney as a friend, but we have different priorities.”
      Despite this, Spanish outlet Sport report that the forward has not given up hope and is “insistent” on a move.
      This being despite rumoured interest from Manchester United, Chelsea and Saudi Arabian sides.
      READ MORE ON FOOTBALL
      It is not the first time Neymar has attempted to return to Barcelona.
      In 2018, just a year after joining PSG, the forward pushed to leave.
      He also told Brazil legend Ronaldo that he “tried everything” to return to Barcelona in the summer of 2019.
      Both times his exit was blocked because PSG were unwilling to sell after signing the winger for a world record £198million transfer fee.
      Most read in Football
      But circumstances are different this time around as the Paris club are desperate to get the 31-year-old’s salary off their wage bill.
      ROYAL ASCOT BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET RACING DEALS
      ROYAL ASCOT LIVE – ALL THE LATEST ON EVERY RACE
      The club have told Neymar he is free to leave and have encouraged him to find a club.
      His preference is a move to Barcelona and he has hired super agent Pini Zahavi to help broker the move.
      Zahavi is a close friend of Barca president Joan Laporta according to Sport.
      Given Barcelona’s delicate financial situation it is unlikely that any transfer would be permanent.
      But given PSG’s need to get the striker off the wage bill a loan move could be an option.
      Neymar is also willing to lower his wages in order to get his dream move back to Barcelona this summer. More

    • 163 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Ex-Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez ‘closing in’ on return to management with FIFTEENTH club

      by

      RAFA BENITEZ is reportedly closing in on a return to management and a FIFTEENTH job.Benitez, 63, has been out of work since January 2022 when he was dismissed by Everton.
      Rafa Benitez looks set to become the new Celta Vigo managerCredit: AFP
      Talks with Leicester failed to materialise as Dean Smith headed to the King Power.
      But now reports state Benitez looks set to take over at LaLiga outfit Celta Vigo.
      The Spanish side are without a manager after Carlos Carvalhal left by mutual consent earlier in June.
      And Benitez seems ready to replace him.
      READ MORE ON FOOTBALL
      According to Relevo, negotiations have hotted up today and a deal is said to be imminent.
      President Carlos Mourino and daughter and new director general Marian Mourino have given the green light to seal the legendary boss’ football comeback.
      His status in the game and experience were key factors in Benitez being the No1 target.
      Andoni Iraola was on the Celta Vigo shortlist before he secured a deal to replace Gary O’Neil at Bournemouth.
      Most read in Football
      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST SPORTS BETTING APPS IN THE UK
      Benitez has managed some of the biggest clubs in Europe after starting out with Real Madrid’s youth then Castilla sides.
      He worked around Spain, winning two LaLigas and the Uefa Cup with Valencia, before joining Liverpool, famously lifting the 2005 Champions League.
      Since then, the Spaniard has been in the dugouts at Inter Milan, Chelsea, Napoli, Real Madrid, Newcastle, Dalian Professional and Everton.
      His stint at Goodison Park did not go to plan, though, with Benitez sacked five months into the season after ten defeats from his 22 games.
      Celta Vigo ended the 2022-23 LaLiga season in 13th – three points above the relegation zone.
      But they did finish the campaign with a 2-1 win over champions Barcelona. More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Super League ‘could be brought back by Saudi Arabia with Barcelona and Juventus among clubs considering link up’

      by

      THE Super League could be brought back by Saudi Arabia with Barcelona and Juventus interested, according to reports.Two years ago, 12 founding clubs proposed a breakaway from European football but the plan quickly fell apart after huge backlash.
      Juventus could join Saudi Arabia’s version of the Super LeagueCredit: Getty
      Bareclona are also reportedly keenCredit: Getty
      But the idea of a Super League could return via Saudi Arabia.
      Chiefs in the Middle East are looking to grow their division following the signings of Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema amongst other stars.
      And to help their sides become more attractive, they want to compete with teams from Europe and rival the Champions League.
      The Saudis supposedly plan to convince Barca and Juve to be part of the new competition.
      READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS
      Tuttosport claim they are both interested amid ongoing issues at both clubs.
      Barca are struggling financially and could also be hit with a ban from Uefa competitions over the Negreira case.
      The governing body are investigating claims that the Catalan giants allegedly paid £6.5million to former refereeing chief Jose Mara Enriquez Negreira.
      Meanwhile, Juventus are under scrutiny for potential FFP breaches, having already been slapped with a ten-point deduction for a false accounting scandal.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      Both the Serie A side and Barcelona were original European Super League members.
      Saudi Arabian clubs would also reportedly welcome other big teams that fail to qualify for the Champions League.
      Uefa are supposedly concerned by the plan. More

    • 213 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Brazil ‘keen to appoint Carlo Ancelotti’s SON’ as coach as bid to hire Real Madrid boss stalls

      by

      CARLO ANCELOTTI’S son is reportedly being considered for a coaching role in the Brazil National Team.Davide, who works with his father at Real Madrid, is being earmarked for a role ahead of Ancelotti’s expected appointment in 2024.
      Davide Ancelotti is being earmarked for a coaching role with BrazilCredit: Getty
      It comes with Carlo Ancelotti in line to take over the Brazil team next yearCredit: PA
      Ancelotti is said to be the first choice of Brazil football association (CBF) president Ednaldo Rodrigues to take over.
      However, the Italian’s contract with Madrid does not expire until 2024, leaving Brazil in the lurch with interim boss Ramon Menezes.
      Brazil are looking at how best to deal with the transition period after Tite’s departure at the end of the World Cup, with ESPN claiming Davide’s appointment is one path they are considering.
      The intention of the move would be to help smooth over the period before Ancelotti senior is appointed.
      READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS
      The report adds a meeting to address the situation is set to be held at the end of this month.
      Davide, 33, started working under his father at Bayern Munich.
      Since then he has also joined him at Napoli, Everton and now Madrid.
      Brazil won their most recent match against Guinea 4-1, with the South Americans due to face Senegal tomorrow.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      Ancelotti has an illustrious career at club level, standing as the only manager to win the Champions League four times.
      However, the 64-year-old is yet to take charge of a national team, though has been backed by Manchester City star Ederson to take the job. More

    • 200 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Two former Premier League stars look unrecognisable as they star for Real Madrid in legends match

      by

      TWO former Premier League stars looked completely unrecognisable as they recently lined-up for Real Madrid in a legends match.One was a Croatian striker that was almost unplayable at the 1998 World Cup.
      Two former Prem stars looked unrecognisable as they returned to match actionCredit: Twitter
      The pair both played recently for a Real Madrid legends teamCredit: Twitter
      One of the icons posed with ex-ref Mark Halsey and posted the snap on TwitterCredit: Twitter
      The hotshot grabbed the Golden Boot as he fired his team to a fourth-place finish and eventually ended up as his country’s all-time top scorer.
      Domestically, he starred for Sevilla before going on to shine at Real Madrid during a three-year spell from 1996.
      Then, to a lesser extent, the ace headed to England to join Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal for a season before moving across London to West Ham for a 12-month stint.
      He scored eight goals in 22 Premier League appearances for the Gunners, with just two in 11 for the Hammers, and then moved to Germany to finish his career at 1860 Munich.
      READ MORE FOOTBALL
      The ex-forward was then president of the Croatian Football Federation.
      Meanwhile, the other was a team-mate of the Croatian striker briefly at the Bernabeu after Real snapped him up from Mallorca in 1998.
      He became a huge favourite and a stand-out star due to his famed perm haircut, winning the Champions League twice at Madrid.
      However, he was shipped out on loan to Bolton Wanderers in the 2002/03 campaign and eventually made that move permanent.
      Most read in Football
      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST NO DEPOSIT CASINO OFFERS
      Under Sam Allardyce, the Spanish international midfielder played for the Trotters for another five years and achieved icon status at the club before going on to join Ipswich Town for a season prior to ending his career at Cypriot club AEK Larnaca.
      The two players in question, of course, are Davor Suker and Ivan Campo.
      The pair were recently reunited as they starred for a Real Madrid legends team.
      An ex-Premier League referee was also involved with Mark Halsey being the man in charge of the action.
      And Campo, now 49, even shared a shot of himself with the whistleblower and captioned it with: “Today I was with a special person and big friend : @RefereeHalsey.
      “Very very very happy to see you again in Orihuela playing with @VeteranosRM.”
      He also posted numerous other shots from the match, including one with him next to now 55-year-old Suker.
      And some of his followers were quick to jump into the comments, with one writing: “Look at those legends.”

      “Dream team right there,” declared another as a fellow fan tweeted: “Ivan Campo Ivan Campo my hero … Baller end of .. love this man ..”
      And the two men both showed they still possessed some of the magic as they helped Madrid to a 5-0 win over an Alicante XI thanks to a brace from Edwin Congo and goals from Jose Amavisca, Fernando Moran and Alberto Rivera.
      Davor Suker went on to star for Arsenal after Real MadridCredit: Reuters
      Ivan Camp achieved legend status after a switch to England with Bolton WanderersCredit: PA:Press Association More