CAF's Four Repeated Slights: When Africa's Best Player Award Eluded Nigeria’s Super Eagles

• Yaya Touré has acknowledged that John Obi-Mikel rightfully earned the title of 2013 CAF Men’s Player of the Year.
• Mikel has joined the ranks of notable Nigerian celebrities who haven't been granted the esteemed individual CAF award throughout their careers.
• Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman have recently reinstated Nigeria's pride by consecutively claiming the award.

Nigerian soccer players have continually impressed in their clubs and for national teams, but they haven’t received proportional acknowledgment from the esteemed CAF African Player of the Year accolade.

Although Nigeria has seen some achievements with players such as Nwankwo Kanu, Emmanuel Amunike, and Rashidi Yekini claiming the title before, the nation has mostly faced disappointment over the years.

Not long ago, ex-Ivorian legend Yaya Toure mentioned during an appearance on the ObiOne podcast that Mikel deserved to win the 2013 title, which has reignited disappointment among numerous Nigerian soccer supporters.

Even though Victor Osimhen broke the streak for Super Eagles players in 2023, he became the first Nigerian male footballer to claim the CAF award in 24 years since Kanu Nwankwo achieved this feat back in 1999.

Ademola Lookman created history for Nigeria by becoming the nation's second successive winner of the accolade, overthrowing Osimhen to claim the title in 2024. This marked Nigeria as the first country to produce back-to-back victors for this honor.

4 Nigerian Players Robbed by CAF

Diwida >.ng examines four cases where Super Eagles players were potentially snubbed by CAF for Africa’s premier individual soccer award.

1. John Obi Mikel – 2013

Straight from a remarkable year during which he claimed victory at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Nigeria and was instrumental in Chelsea’s success at the UEFA Europa League, John Obi Mikel appeared to be the obvious favorite for the 2013 CAF award.

Throughout AFCON, he demonstrated his prowess as a central midfielder and also excelled on the European platform.

Nevertheless, the award was presented to Yaya Touré, an undoubtedly talented player, yet he hadn’t reached the level of collective and continental accomplishments achieved by Mikel that year.

Toure has since acknowledged that Mikel rightfully deserved the award, casting this omission as one of CAF’s most contentious choices.

2. Jay-Jay Okocha – 2004

The highly skilled Jay-Jay Okocha was unstoppable in 2004.

He guided Nigeria to secure a third-place spot at the Africa Cup of Nations, netting four goals and impressing everyone with his signature style throughout the competition.

In his time at Bolton Wanderers, the agile playmaker guided the team to the finals of the English League Cup and maintained their competitiveness in the Premier League.

Instead, CAF presented the accolade to Cameroonian forward Samuel Eto'o, whose performances were not as spectacular compared to Okocha’s remarkable displays throughout the year.

A lot of supporters continue to see this as an injustice against one of Africa’s most talented performers.

3. Obafemi Martins – 2006

Just at the age of 21, Obafemi Martins experienced a remarkable season with Inter Milan, consistently finding the back of the net in both Serie A and the UEFA Champions League.

Martins played a crucial role in Nigeria's journey to qualify for the World Cup.

Even though he was in outstanding form and had an impressive goal count, the accolade went to Didier Drogba, leaving the Super Eagles forward in third place.

While Drogba had a strong case, Martins' rise and performance were arguably more impactful that year, especially considering his youth and consistency across competitions.

4. Vincent Enyeama – 2014

Goalkeepers seldom attract attention, yet Vincent Enyeama managed to grab everyone’s focus in 2014.

The goalkeeper from Lille maintained 21 clean sheets in Ligue 1, nearly securing a Champions League position for his team, and he also excelled spectacularly representing Nigeria at the World Cup.

Even though he was brilliant, Enyeama came in third place after Yaya Touré and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Numerous commentators and supporters felt he deserved to secure the highest honor for revolutionizing performance as a goalkeeper.

Okocha expresses disappointment over missing out on the CAF award.

Earlier, Diwida >.ng It was reported that Okocha spoke about how CAF prevented him from having the chance to win the African Footballer of the Year award during his career.

He was so impressive he earned two names; Okocha stands out as one of the most gifted African football players in history, yet he fell short of securing the prestigious individual accolade.

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Morocco's Football Success: A Testament to King's Visionary Leadership, Says Patrice Motsepe

The achievements of Moroccan soccer alongside the notable progress Morocco has made in athletics stand as evidence of King Mohammed VI’s forward-thinking guidance, stated Patrice Motsepe, CAF president, during a statement made on Wednesday in Johannesburg.

"This achievement is also due to the relentless endeavors made by the government and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation to nurture this burgeoning field and enhance both the kingdom's and its teams' prominence not just throughout Africa but globally," Motsepe stated to MAP during the margins of an event signifying the extension of the strategic alliance between CAF and Africa Global Logistics (AGL), a significant logistical entity on the continent.

Motsepe expressed his satisfaction with the response he got after visiting Morocco recently for the U17 Africa Cup of Nations final, as the Atlas Lions secured the African championship.

"Throughout our tour of multiple stadiums in Morocco, the CAF delegation expressed admiration for the exceptional quality of top-tier sports infrastructure," he stated, additionally praising Morocco’s progress in updating sporting venues, enhancing accessibilities, and fostering comprehensive athletic growth.

During the same signing event, Motsepe also commended the Atlas Lions for their groundbreaking achievement at the Qatar World Cup—their status as the inaugural African and Arab team to advance to the semifinals—alongside the successes of the U17 team and other Moroccan national squads.

At CAF, we take pride in Morocco's outstanding accomplishments in sports, particularly in football," he stated, further noting, "The kingdom's triumphs are also victories for the entire African continent.

The CAF has officially extended its collaboration with Africa Global Logistics, designating AGL as the official logistics partner for African football.

"The rejuvenation of our partnership underscores our robust and common dedication to progressing football throughout Africa," stated Motsepe.

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From Tragedy to Draft: Dante Barnett's Journey to the 2025 NFL

• READ MORE: EXCLUSIVE: Passing game specialist uncovers overlooked prospect for the 2025 draft

Picture, then, the path of an American football player. Starting from when they first take up the game as children, moving through the bright lights illuminating Friday night high school games, and onward to playing under the roar of tens of thousands of spectators during university matches, culminating in eagerly awaiting hearing their name called out.

This aspiration is shared by countless young American males who take up the game with dreams of establishing their legacy—yearning for that moment when bright spotlights illuminate them as they strive for greatness.

These floodlights generally do not extend to England. They fail to illuminate the roads of Birmingham. Even the assembly line at a Jaguar factory remains beyond their reach.

Maybe Dante Barnett will be the one to change that: a young man who turned to a foreign game in a time of need and hoped to reach the heights of the sport, only to have his dream nearly turn to ash before his eyes.

However, persistence has opened up possibilities he likely never imagined just a year prior: the chance to recover, to demonstrate his abilities in front of talent evaluators during a professional showcase at the University of Southern Florida. Florida , to hear him being announced in Green Bay, Wisconsin In the 2025 NFL Draft.

Barnett’s aspirations remain vibrant, even after facing life’s toughest challenges. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch with a weight of 279 pounds as a defensive tackle prospect, he is keen to leap into the country’s favorite sport league and demonstrate his capabilities to the entire nation.

Barnett faced an uncertainty growing up. Despite being aware of his athletic abilities, he was unsure about which avenue would be most suitable for showcasing his talents.

When I was in high school, between 15 and 16 years old, I wasn’t quite sure about my future plans," Barnett said to the Daily Mail just under two months prior to the NFL Draft.

'Naturally, I focused on my studies and all related activities, yet I didn’t excel academically. Figuring out my path beyond adolescence was quite challenging.'

Having dabbled in several sports including football (known as soccer in the United States), hockey, rugby, and swimming, he found an immediate affinity for American football.

A coach named Steve Kilvington encouraged a 16-year-old Barnett to think about joining the NFL Academy situated at Loughborough University in Leicestershire when he was younger. Barnett successfully went through trials held at New River Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, which led to him being accepted into the program.

Barnett expressed his admiration for defensive players such as Ray Lewis, Aaron Donald, and Calais Campbell. However, he mentioned that what truly attracted him to the sport was the sense of community within the game.

"It was reassuring to know that the individual behind me or beside me shared the same responsibilities as I did," Barnett stated.

He mentioned that he enjoyed ' Feeling like I belong with a crowd who shared similar circumstances, all aiming for success and putting in maximum effort every single day.

Football entered his life when that community was desperately needed. Barnett acknowledges that the setting he grew up in "didn't suit me well." Moreover, those surrounding him were not positive role models.

Shortly after he enrolled in the academy, Barnett's father died.

[Football] was simply something that helped me stay grounded," Barnett remembered. "I didn’t use it as a diversion, but rather as a means to maintain my equilibrium. It turned out to be an incredible chance that presented itself at exactly the right moment.

Following his three-year stint at the NFL Academy, Barnett attempted to make the transition to American collegiate football.

It was evident from his athletic prowess. Barnett participated in camps at three institutions in Texas: Texas Christian University (TCU), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and the University of Houston. Each of these universities competes at the highest tier of college football—Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).

For those new to the scene, college football in the South is akin to a religious experience comparable to the Baptist Convention – drawing huge audiences every Saturday eager to see up-and-coming talents shine.

For instance, TCU consistently fills up Amon G. Carter Stadium, which has a capacity of 47,000 spectators. This attendance figure would rank it as the eighth-largest stadium in the Premier League.

However, even though he received proposals from all three universities — perhaps shocked by his impressive 4.60-second 40-yard dash — he was unable to enroll at any of them because of his subpar academic performance.

Instead of packing it in, he went off to a Division III school - Dickinson College in Pennsylvania - in the hopes of improving his grades and getting an offer back on the table.

Despite being at a lower level than his talent maybe deserved, Barnett recalls Dickinson fondly: 'Everyone really had their best interest and just really wanted me to do well over there.

'So I have nothing bad to say about Dickinson. The culture there is amazing. I loved them every minute while I was at Dickinson.'

But that desire to play in Division I remained. Barnett attended camps for a chance of getting those previous offers back, but 'it just didn't work out the way I'd hoped'. When tuition at Dickinson became too burdensome, he was left with no other option but to return back to England.

'I think for the first month or so, it was just a bit of a blur because for the past four or five years, it'd just been football,' Barnett explained. 'All I've ever done is football. So adjusting to doing nothing for a minute was just a bit difficult for me. So I think I was still processing my feelings and how I was going about that.'

So that's what led him to working the line at a Jaguar-Land Rover plant - putting together luxury cars while his high-end dreams began slowly dying in each piece of welded metal that passed him by.

Barnett continued to work out and stay in shape in the off chance there could be something that came along to resuscitate his NFL dream.

That's where the NFL's IPP came in. Barnett persevered and worked his connections to become a part of the program and was able to work out in front of scouts at USF.

Now comes the wait. Whether he hears his name called or he signs with a team in free agency, Barnett has put in the work to earn the chance.

It's an opportunity he's not going to waste any time soon. He told Daily Mail that if any team chooses him, 'they're going to get my 100 percent commitment, my focus as well.

'I'm extremely dedicated. I just love the sport of football.'

Talking to him, it’s evident that the journey hasn’t dampened his spirits. Barnett is utterly delightful to converse with, always smiling and candidly sharing his experiences with poise and honesty.

This is the type of narrative that’s difficult not to cheer for and simple to back. The current uncertainty lies solely in whether there’s a group ready to assist him in penning that subsequent page.

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What It's Really Like Being a WAG in Saudi Arabia: Footballers’ Wives Reveal Life Behind Closed Doors

• Taylor Ward, Riyad Mahrez's spouse, explains her newfound love for Saudi Arabia.
• Others dedicate their time to desert excursions, modeling, and crossing over the frontier.
• LISTEN NOW: It's All Kicking Off! Chris Sutton explains why Trent Alexander-Arnold might be better off staying at Liverpool

Bathed in sun, luxurious yet possibly somewhat impersonal—life for footballers and their families in Saudi Arabia comes with exhilarating peaks and isolating troughs.

Football teams in the traditionally conservative Middle Eastern country spend staggering amounts to secure the services of top players, with an expenditure of £164 million per season as seen in the case of Cristiano Ronaldo - But that doesn't simplify things for their loved ones.

Their spouses must navigate a society where they are expected to remain covered during scorching weather, tolerate gender-separated facilities in sports centers, and travel to Bahrain or the UAE for an alcoholic drink if desired.

Taylor Ward, who married former Manchester City star Riyad Mahrez in January 2022 (in the first of three ceremonies!), is one of those. One day she was living in England. Then a sudden phone call from her husband, announcing that he was joining Jeddah-based Al-Ahli, changed her life - and caused the tears to flow.

'I just burst into tears. I was honestly inconsolable,' she tells The Times . 'Being married to a footballer, we’re so privileged. It’s an amazing life, don’t get me wrong. But there are parts that are hard as well, like moving abroad and being away from your family.'

Ward is a star of the Amazon series Married to the Game, which affords viewers a deep dive into the lives of footballers' wives and girlfriends, warts and all. She is one of many partners who have had to adapt to life in the Middle East.

As the group of wives and girlfriends in Saudi has expanded gradually, it still doesn’t compare to the entourage found in Cheshire or London. However, this circle now features notable members such as Georgina Rodriguez, who is dating Cristiano Ronaldo; Rebeca Tavares, Fabinho’s wife; and Larissa Pereira, Roberto Firmino’s spouse. When his husband Steven Gerrard coached Al-Ettifaq, Alex Curran was also among their ranks.

Mahrez and Ward reside in an eight-bedroom home along with their young daughter Mila, who is two years old, as well as his daughters Ayla and Inaya from his previous marriage to Rita Johal. Indeed, such a luxurious abode featuring eight bedrooms comes at the price of a salary amounting to £750,000 per year.

This opulent residence features cream-colored carpets and couches, numerous walk-in closets, a bar area, and an entertainment section along with a spacious kitchen. However, it might appear somewhat stark as well.

Ward has put considerable effort into the interior design and regularly updates her 50,000 Instagram followers through a specific account for this purpose. Her mom, Real Housewives of Cheshire cast member Dawn Ward, lends her assistance whenever needed.

It was challenging in Saudi Arabia to find a house that was small enough for our needs," she shared with the Times. "They have homes with sixteen bedrooms. I thought, 'This is absurd.'

Ward humorously mentions that he has about three friends, contrasting it with the larger circle of friendships he had in Manchester. At Mahrez’s Al-Ahli club, there are just a few former Premier League players along with their families, including Firmino, Ivan Toney, and Edouard Mendy.

Instead of embracing the country, Alex Curran went so far as to avoid Saudi Arabia altogether. For a more liberated way of living beyond the borders in Bahrain, she experienced an idyllic existence in a spacious six-bedroom house costing £10,000 per month, located in Manama, the country’s capital. Here, her neighbors included members of the royalty, and both dress codes and leisure activities were subject to fewer limitations compared to some stricter regions.

They had free membership of the country’s two most exclusive health clubs, based at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel and the Ritz Carlton Hotel, and hung out at the Bahrain Rugby Club, an exclusive expat hangout. The Moda Mall at the World Trade Centre in Bahrain offered an array of designer stores, salons, and spas.

Ward and her family go to the cinema and bowling regularly, and have taken circus trips, while she watches from a VIP seat in Jeddah’s Alinma Stadium. At the weekend, they were special guests of Red Bull Racing at the Saudi Arabian F1 Grand Prix.

Others fill their time differently. Fabinho and his wife Rebeca Tavares go quad biking in the desert, hang out at the beach in Jeddah, and cross into Dubai to visit the zoo.

Larisa Pereira, wife of Roberto Firmino and a co-founder of an evangelical church in Brazil, enjoys the peace of her Bible studies and theology books. Like a lot of the other footballing families, they have mutliple kids to entertain, so recently visited a Barbie exhibit to burn off some steam.

Georgina Rodriguez loves exploring Saudi Arabis's desert landscapes. A visit to AlUla, an ancient Arabian oasis city, left her stunned. She has also been able to expand the horizons of her modelling career, and taken to the culture so much that she has got an Arabic tattoo.

We hesitated to speak... [we preferred] not to break the ambiance. The quietness— it’s something you can’t experience elsewhere," she mentioned. "AlUla is among the most remarkable locations I have visited. It takes your vitality and returns it refreshed.

After Ronaldo signed with Al-Nassr, they had to remain at a hotel for about a month, which required some acclimation. "Initially, I went through periods of highs and lows since living in a hotel for such an extended time was new to us all," explained Rodriguez. "There were moments when I wished not to be seen by others, yet generally, I felt enthusiastic." This sentiment resonated with Ward as well; she too has grown fond of the place over time.

Ward stated that they receive so many guests from their hometown that there could nearly be "a hundred" people wandering around the house, which abruptly underscores the necessity for having eight bedrooms.

I genuinely enjoy living in Saudi now," Ward stated on Married to the Game. "People often visit me here. My buddies travel from the UK, and since my parents reside in Dubai, they frequently stop by, which is truly wonderful.

It feels great being out in the sunshine; everyone around seems very friendly, and I’ve gotten much better at navigating this place. The children are enrolled in daycare, I discovered an excellent gym nearby, these small conveniences truly make everyday living much more pleasant and effortless.

Language poses a significant obstacle. While Ward has acquired some knowledge of Arabic, he still finds it challenging to locate specific items at the grocery store. Additionally, he mistakenly drove on the incorrect side of the motorway (since women gained permission in 2018).

A report by Mail Online in 2024 claimed that spouses of footballers playing in the top league of a Gulf nation experienced public harassment and were denied access to stores and eateries due to their attire.

It can get isolating," Ward shared with Married to the Game. "I have had to leave behind my entire family and reside on the opposite side of the globe, in a nation with a wholly distinct culture.

In Bahrain, where Gerrard's family resided, an expatriate shared insights into what makes the country attractive.

Daniel McRae, a devoted Liverpool supporter, mentioned: "Gerrard frequents this place (Bahrain Rugby Club bar) rather often. He enjoys having a drink, mingling with others, and discussing football; something you can't do as freely in Saudi Arabia."

“And it’s simpler for women to reside here, which might be why his spouse likely preferred being here. You can walk around wearing shorts or a sleeveless top without drawing unwanted attention, making Bahrain quite appealing.”

However, one significant advantage of their new life is the enhanced security. Numbeo ranked Saudi Arabia as the 14th safest nation for living this year. The United Kingdom was placed at 87th position.

"I can finally get some rest at night," Ward said. the Sun 'We've experienced theft before, which makes us hesitant to own valuable items.'

'The house I have in Saudi Arabia is ten times larger than the one in England, and if I were to be alone somewhere, I would opt for Saudi without hesitation any day of the week.'

There are numerous break-ins and negative incidents happening, particularly in Cheshire. This poses a significant issue.

I used to tell Riyad, “Don’t get me a watch for my birthday; I don’t want to stand out.” But now that we reside in Saudi Arabia, you have the chance to really appreciate and sport fine items.

Ronaldo, Georgina, and their family had different feelings about the situation. Early this month, it was reported that they hired a new head bodyguard and dismissed some members of his security team due to safety worries while in Saudi Arabia.

Since Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in 2023, the pair has apparently enjoyed a mostly low-profile existence, often taking strolls and going out with their kids in Riyadh.

However, upsetting messages directed at the Portuguese star and his partner Georgina on social media have apparently put the family on high alert, leading Ronaldo to respond accordingly.

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Yaya Toure Reveals Barcelona's Secret to Stopping Ronaldo in the 2009 UCL Final: "We Jumped on Him"

• The Ivory Coast icon Yaya Toure shared insights into how Barcelona managed to stifle Portuguese ace Cristiano Ronaldo in the 2009 UEFA Champions League final.
• In the 2008/09 final, Barcelona beat Manchester United 2-0, thanks to scores from Samuel Eto'o and Lionel Messi.
• In the 2007/08 UEFA Champions League semi-finals, Manchester United edged past Barcelona with a score of 1-0, owing solely to Paul Scholes' solitary goal.

The AFCON-winning player Yaya Toure has said that the five-time Ballon d'Or recipient Cristiano Ronaldo ranks among the finest athletes he has encountered in the UEFA Champions League.

The player who has won La Liga twice clinched the Champions League with Barcelona during the 2008/09 season prior to his transfer to Manchester City.

The assistant coach from Saudi Arabia expressed his views on facing Ronaldo when he was at the peak of his career.

Toure addresses the frustration with Ronaldo

Yaya Touré disclosed that during the 2008/09 Champions League final, his fellow players needed to devise another plan to contain Cristiano Ronaldo since the strategies suggested by their coach were not sufficient.

In an interview on the Obi One Podcast, the ex-captain of the Ivory Coast revealed that Gerard Piqué sought his counsel on strategies to contain the former Real Madrid player.

The footballer who has won the CAF Player of the Year award four times stated that prior to the finale, the defensive players were nervous. However, they ended up resorting to "targeting" Ronaldo to break his concentration, which was successful according to UEFA reports. He commented as follows:

Making it to the finals was amazing. There were moments when Cristiano Ronaldo would receive the ball and hold onto it. He poses a threat whether he uses his left or right foot.

“Before the match started, during the line-up and handshakes, Pique turned to me and said, ‘Yaya, what can we do?’ Then Puyol jumped in and said, ‘Hey boy, my heart is gone.’ I was already sweating, thinking about how we were going to stop Ronaldo.

Following the handshakes, right before the referee sounded the whistle, Puyol stated, 'Let’s go, this is for real now.' I glanced at Busquests, and we were all focused and ready.

There was a instance where we conceded possession during an offensive play. Ronaldo began sprinting forward, and Pique attempted to bring him down from behind with a sliding challenge. Despite this, Ronaldo pushed through and managed to get off a left-footed shot, which struck the crossbar. We exchanged glances, thinking to ourselves, 'This could be problematic.'

“I told Pique, 'This is our plan: if he makes it through, I'll tackle him. You guard the opposite side.' Additionally, I instructed Busquets to contest him aerially, and I would stay close to him as he moved with the ball.”

That's how we succeeded in managing him. We developed the strategy all by ourselves, right on the field.

Audience Responds to Toure's Remarks About Confining Ronaldo

Fans of Manchester United have applauded how Barcelona successfully thwarted Cristiano Ronaldo during the Champions League final.

One X user pointed out that Yaya Touré’s plan came from his experience playing against Ronaldo at both the international and club levels, while another fan remarked that the Portuguese star was the only standout player on the pitch.

@FareedAbdallah6 wrote:

“Yaya Toure knows him very well because he faced the GOAT in both club and national team matches. Please y’all should watch Drogba reaction after Cristiano’s power shot.”

@UsGarba said:

“You just have to be so great to be on the mind of 4 good players at their prime in the Super Barcelona team; Pique, Puyol, Toure and Busquet all on him.”

@White_Osimehn9 added:

“They will all say the truth when the time comes. I'm still waiting for Pique and Puyol”.

@McmanuelAbefe posited:

“This was why Manchester United lost that game. We had no player to run Messi down like Barca did with Ronaldo.

I recall that game, and I felt frustrated since PARK wasn't playing. Ronaldo was our top performer, but Barcelona had sufficient talent to contain him yet continue with inventive plays.

Toure mentions that Drogba was keen on joining Chelsea

Diwida >.ng earlier reported that Four-time CAF Player of the Year Yaya Toure said that Manchester City were more eager to sign him than Chelsea.

Ivory Coast legend Yaya Toure has revealed that his teammate Didier Drogba did everything he could to convince him to join Chelsea after his contract at Barcelona ended.

He added that City made him a top priority and built the team around him.

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Eddie Nketiah: England Star Ready to Represent Ghana's Black Stars

• Eddie Nketiah has expressed his willingness to play for Ghana's national team, the Black Stars, at the international level.
• Despite having represented England a couple of years ago, the 25-year-old remains eligible to play for Ghana.
• After departing from Arsenal during the previous summer, Nketiah has found it difficult to secure a place in the starting lineup at Crystal Palace.

Eddie Nketiah, who plays for Crystal Palace, has stated that he is willing to play for Ghana's national team, the Black Stars.

The individual, who is 25 years old and hails from Lewisham, England, traces his ancestry back to Ghana via his mother, Elizabeth Asaam, and father, Edward Nketiah.

This qualifies him to represent Ghana, despite his upbringing in England and his participation with English youth squads at levels U18 through U21.

Nketiah made his first appearance for England's senior team in a 1-0 friendly win against Australia on October 13, 2023, and at first, he aspired to continue his international career with the Three Lions.

Nevertheless, as England's reservoir of talent continues to strengthen, Nketiah’s opportunities for frequent selections have diminished.

This change could potentially pave the way for a transition to represent the Ghana national squad under coach Otto Addo.

On The Beautiful Game podcast, Nketiah stated:

My parents are both from Ghana, so yes, it's definitely an option. I'm open to representing either country—Ghana or England. In my earlier years, joining the English team seemed logical after progressing through the youth system. However, if Ghana reaches out to me, I would certainly join them.

His remarks suggest a high likelihood that he might soon don the Black Stars shirt, potentially strengthening Ghana’s offense before impending tournaments.

In 2022, he was close to changing his international affiliation to represent a West African nation, obtaining a Ghanaian passport; however, the transfer did not materialize in the end.

Nketiah's professional journey: Seeking consistency

Nketiah commenced his professional journey with Arsenal’s youth setup, showcasing such impressive performances that he was elevated to the main squad in 2020.

Over his four-year tenure with the Gunners, he scored 38 goals and contributed seven assists across 168 matches, as reported by Transfermarkt.

Even though he displayed moments of exceptional skill, his restricted playing opportunities under Mikel Arteta prompted him to pursue a new beginning at Crystal Palace during the summer transfer window in 2024.

Nevertheless, his move to Selhurst Park has not been smooth at all; he has mustered just one goal and two assists across 20 Premier League matches.

As the 2024/25 season approaches its end, Nketiah will likely be keen to make an impression on Oliver Glasner and solidify his role as a crucial member of the team for the subsequent season.

What do FIFA’s regulations state about changing nationalities?

By September 2020, FIFA implemented revised rules concerning players' nationality changes. The regulation states that players may alter their national allegiance provided they have participated in no more than three competitive senior games prior to reaching the age of 21.

Furthermore, these appearances should exclude any matches played in the latter phases of significant competitions such as the FIFA World Cup or various continental championship events.

The guidelines also indicate that at least three years should elapse after a player's most recent senior match before they can represent their first national team.

Additionally, the player needs to qualify for the new national squad when they initially played for the original country. FIFA’s guidelines strive to uphold the fairness of global tournaments alongside respecting individual and career concerns of athletes.

Nketiah explains her choice to retain her Ghanaian last name.

Earlier, Diwida >.gh It was reported that Nketiah disclosed his reasons for choosing to display his Ghanaian surname on the back of his jersey.

Although he represented England two years ago, the 25-year-old remains eligible to play for Ghana.

After departing from Arsenal during the previous summer, Nketiah has found it difficult to secure a place in the starting lineup at Crystal Palace.

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PSG vs Nice – Luis Enrique: "Count Me In for Tuesday's Clash in London"

Paris Saint-Germain suffered a defeat with a score of 1-3 against Nice. video highlights PSG/Nice This Friday at the Parc des Princes will see the 31st matchday of Ligue 1 2024-2025 take place. Following the game, Paris coach Luis Enrique addressed the media during a press conference. Despite the outcome, he maintained an optimistic stance.

Enrique said, "We thoroughly deserve a favorable outcome."

Football works this way; we need to acknowledge it and applaud Nice. However, I should also commend my squad since they put up an excellent performance, particularly during the first half when we thoroughly merited achieving a favorable outcome.

In the second half, we scored a goal quite swiftly, which came as a surprise. Although we can no longer maintain an undefeated streak, this does not alter our goals for the Champions League and the upcoming French Cup final."

Enrique "I can assure them that we will compete in every game from start to finish."

At the conclusion, you requested additional backing from the supporters. Does this imply that you remain unperturbed about Tuesday’s match even though you observed certain things tonight?

What I witnessed today, I'm registering for the match on Tuesday in London as well as the second leg. The team demonstrated an impressive performance by generating around 30 scoring opportunities during today's game, which is exactly what I am committing to.

If your squad consistently engages without hesitation, maintains a high tempo, and constantly presses and runs, there should be no cause for concern. Additionally, when the goalkeeper produces remarkable saves, this is simply part of the game, and such moments must be accepted as they come.

When you have supporters such as those at PSG, who continue to sing regardless of the 3-1 scoreboard, I cannot promise championships or victories, but I can assure you that we will compete in every game with our full effort from start to finish.

We're about to take some time to recharge before our upcoming semi-final. This season has clearly demonstrated that we are head and shoulders above the competition in France. Staying aligned with our identity and objectives, we will be giving it our all to secure victory in this semi-final."

Enrique "In football, what matters is the number of goals scored, not the opportunities."

Do you believe it's possible for heads to be touched in your game, or should they never be allowed to be touched at all?

Currently, the players are feeling affected, indeed, as they did not deserve to lose. We definitely merited winning that match. However, it’s clear that if the opponent performs at 100% realism and you aren’t operating at your typical level of performance, the outcome of the game shifts.

It's complex, yet that's how soccer works. Congratulations once more to your opponents. In soccer, what matters isn't the number of opportunities, but the number of goals scored."

You've essentially put together your usual lineup; what was the reasoning behind this decision?

You're free to reach your own conclusions, but I won't be giving Mr. Arteta any advice. That responsibility lies with you. However, I don't verify the leads. Instead, I'll select the team I believe will perform optimally. I'm quite pleased with how my players have played. We didn't get the result we wanted today, but I want to extend my congratulations to both my players and the team.

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Korea's Youngest Footballers Vie for Spot in U19 Standing Army Team: Match Set for July 27th

The Korea College Football Association plans to implement a reserve corps system for university footballers.

The Korea University Football Federation plans to form a technical committee and create designated teams based on age groups to implement a structured operational framework. These teams will include Under 19 (U-19), Under 20 (U-20), Under 21 (U-21), and Under 22 (U-22) categories. The aim is to address the issue where the university national team had been hastily assembled before major competitions, which often led to inadequate preparation and suboptimal performance.

The objective of the standing army system is to enhance abilities by efficiently overseeing top-tier athletes participating at the collegiate level. This initiative seeks to boost overall national competitiveness by elevating the standard of university-level football across the board. Additionally, it anticipates facilitating the transition of these athletes into both local and global professional circuits, thereby broadening the pool of talent within South Korea’s soccer ecosystem.

The initial phase begins with the U-19 standing army selection tournament at Dankook University in Cheonan on the 27th. Subsequently, other age-specific teams will continue their selections throughout May. Over 370 prospective athletes chosen from various universities across the country will take part in this U-19 standing army selection event. Ultimately, candidates will be picked based on an overall assessment of their skills, fitness levels, and growth prospects.

The standing army functions under a tripartite training regimen categorized by age, region, and holistic development. Age-specific training involves tailored reinforcement programs designed for different age groups. Weekly regional sessions focus on enhancing personal abilities. Comprehensive team exercises bolster collective strength, with participants chosen based on an all-around assessment. The federation aims to enhance both the technical prowess of the athletes and their character traits as student-athletes, encompassing aspects like personality improvement.

Park Han-dong, president of the Korea Football Association, said, `College soccer is a stage for elite players who dream of becoming professional leagues. By introducing a permanent standing army system, it is intended to help college players grow not only as a member of society but also as a soccer player. Through this, if it is strengthened to the base of university soccer, Korean soccer will be enriched,' he said.

epi17@Diwida >

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Photos: Andre Onana Buys £3.5M Mansion in Manchester as Man Utd Exit Rumors Swirl

• Andre Onana has strongly hinted at what might happen with his career at Manchester United following speculation about him leaving.
• The Cameroonian goalie has spent £3.5 million on an opulent house in Greater Manchester.
• His position with the team is still unclear, as there were claims that Saudi teams tried to secure his services during the previous summer.

Andre Onana, the goalkeeper for Manchester United, has suggested his plans for the future following his purchase of an upscale property in Greater Manchester, as speculations circulate about him potentially being transferred during the upcoming summer.

In 2023, Onana moved from Inter Milan to Manchester United for £47.2 million. During his tenure, he faced challenges maintaining consistent performance and received criticism both from supporters and the press.

After committing two mistakes that resulted in goals and prevented United from winning their UEFA Europa League fixture against Olympique Lyon, Ruben Amorim left him out of the team for the Newcastle encounter.

Nevertheless, he reclaimed his position for the thrilling 5-4 victory in the second leg following his substitute Altay Bayındır conceding four goals during the 4-1 defeat against Newcastle.

Onana purchases a grand estate in Manchester.

As reported in United in Focus, the goalkeeper has invested £3.5 million in a lavish home close to Altrincham in Hale Barns, Greater Manchester. Previously, he was leasing this property until he chose to purchase it.

This estate features a spacious four-bedroom manor complete with amenities such as a private movie theater, fitness center, basketball court, and tennis court. Additionally, it boasts a temperature-controlled swimming pool along with an outdoor relaxation zone designed for gatherings of family and friends.

Converting a rental agreement into permanent possession suggests that the Cameroonian goalkeeper plans to stay for a considerable time, as he has recently switched representatives with the aim of negotiating a more profitable deal.

David Ornstein states that United will require a substantial bid, exceeding the amount spent on him two years prior, to agree to his sale and comply with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations.

Peter Schmeichel defends Onana

Peter Schmeichel, a legendary figure from Manchester United, has come forward to support Andre Onana and criticized those who criticize him, stating that it is unfair to target the goalkeeper amidst the club’s challenging season.

It has indeed been a challenging year, and this holds true for everybody involved," he stated during his talksport interview. "It wouldn’t be right to single out individuals. Just consider Manchester United’s position in the Premier League; clearly, things aren't going well for the players at the moment.

He mentioned that being a goalkeeper is challenging, and representing Manchester United adds another layer of complexity to this role. For instance, he pointed out a Danish newspaper from his home country which does not cover sports but still covers updates about Manchester United.

"If you commit an error with numerous other teams in the Premier League, it may only end up in the newspapers the following day. However, nobody will discuss it the next day or the one after," he concluded.

Manchester United are interested in signing Aaron Ramsdale.

Diwida >.ng Earlier reports indicated that Manchester United are among the teams showing interest in signing Aaron Ramsdale following Southampton’s descent to the Championship.

The ex-Arsenal goalkeeper is drawing attention from Premier League clubs, with these teams feeling his standing remains strong even though the Saints have had a terrible campaign.

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Tottenham Shock Fans by Adding Former Player to Postecoglou Replacement Shortlist as Spurs Boss Nears Exit

According to recent reports, Tottenham has included Burnley manager Scott Parker in their list of potential replacements for Ange Postecoglou when his term ends this season.

Tottenham is experiencing a terrible season in the Premier League, with Postecoglou’s team currently struggling. 16th place in the Premier League standings and just one point ahead of 18th-placed West Ham.

Their 2-1 defeat against Nottingham Forest on Monday marked their fifth loss in their past seven Premier League games. Tottenham failing to win their 18th out of 33 matches.

Rumors were circulating that Postecoglou might be dismissed before the season concluded, but a report in the Daily Telegraph on Tuesday night has disclosed that Postecoglou is likely to leave Tottenham Hotspur regardless of whether his team wins the Europa League or not.

The report added:

'Tottenham is set to compete against the Norwegian team Bodo/Glimt in the UEFA Europa League semi-finals, and the Australian manager might be dismissed if his squad doesn’t advance or loses in the final against either Athletic Bilbao or Manchester United.'

'Winning the trophy and continuing his tradition of securing titles in his second year at various clubs would allow Postecoglou the chance to depart—potentially amicably—with dignity intact and after fulfilling his pledges to alter the team’s playing style and achieve victory.'

READ: Who might take over as Tottenham’s next manager following Ange Postecoglou?

And now the Daily Mail who share a comparable narrative with the Telegraph , have suggested several names as possible alternatives if Tottenham chooses to dismiss Postecoglou.

The report suggests that Andoni Iraola of Bournemouth and Marco Silva of Fulham would be top contenders for the position, whereas it also reveals unexpectedly that Parker—who has recently secured promotion to the Premier League with Burnley—enjoys support from some individuals within the club.

On Parker, the Daily Mail Adds: 'Parker played for Spurs, was popular among fans, and also served as a coach in the club’s academy system.'

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Tottenham is considering more high-profile managers following the dismissal of Ancelotti's recommendation, which was met with laughter.

Senior football writer for ESPN James Olley has previously suggested that Fulham manager Silva could be a suitable substitute for Postecoglou, and Chelsea was reportedly interested in him as well in the past.

"I find Marco Silva to be another intriguing choice," Olley stated.

I believe he would depart from Fulham. I think he was very interested in joining Chelsea, particularly if they had seriously considered offering him the position before.

“I believe he has ambition, Silva. Clearly, Fulham would undoubtedly put up a fierce struggle to retain his services, but there could be a situation where Marco Silva actively seeks out some interest if such an opportunity presents itself.”

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French Wonderkid Set to Join Manchester United as Free Agent This Summer

• Le Havre is poised to lose their talented young player when his current contract expires.
• The young forward, who is 18 years old, will depart from the team, and he has firmly decided on this course of action.
• TUNE IN NOW: It's All Kicking Off! Available on all podcast platforms. Fresh episodes released every Monday and Thursday.

The French prodigy Enzo Kana-Biyik is said to have agreed to sign with them. Manchester United This summer, when his contract with Le Havre comes to an end.

The young forward, just 18 years old, is considered a promising talent; however, he decided against renewing his contract with the team based in Normandy.

Earlier this week, according to Mail Sport, it was reported that Discussions between Kana-Biyik and the Old Trafford club were progressing. .

And now, according to Le Parisien , the player along with his family has decided to make the transition to join United.

Le Havre was clinging to the possibility that he might prolong his contract to continue developing with the team facing relegation threats. Ligue 1 side.

However, the son of renowned Cameroonian footballer André Kana-Biyik is anticipated to make a transfer soon. Premier League .

The report states that he has received concrete strategies for advancement but will be spending his initial season on loan at Lausanne-Sport, an additional INEOS-owned team based in Switzerland.

The forward, born in Paris, has not played in Ligue 1 at the senior level but netted eight times in 14 matches in the U19 Championnat National.

Manchester United are actively seeking a forward who can bolster the team right away, as Ruben Amorim’s squad moves nearer to securing a deal for Wolves’ Matheus Cunha.

The United team needs to trigger the £62.5 million release clause for the Brazilian player, but they are optimistic about finalizing all conditions by next month.

Amorim openly expresses his appreciation for Cunha, commending his adaptability and ability to score goals.

The manager of Manchester United was seen talking with Cunha following the match between United and Wolves at Molineux and again in the tunnel at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Due to PSR, financial resources are limited for Amorim, and future hiring initiatives will depend on their sales performance and qualification for European markets.

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Jeju SK FC Celebrates Union Day at Pohangjeon Hall: A Trusted Marketing Restaurant

'Steadfast Marketing Restaurant' Jeju SK FC's endeavors have once more come to light.

On the afternoon of January 20th at 4:30 PM, Jeju SK played their ninth-round home match against the Pohang Steelers as part of "Jeju Inhabitant Day" during the Hana Bank K League 1 season in 2025, securing a victory with a score of 2-0. The event was organized jointly by NH Nonghyup Bank’s Seogwipo branch, along with organizations such as the Jeju Pig Agricultural Cooperative, Jeju Tangerine Agricultural Cooperative, Seogwipo City Livestock Cooperative, and Seogwipo Agricultural Cooperative. These groups collaborated to host several activities aimed at benefiting the local community through mutual cooperation and growth.

The event was much more than just a regular home game. Seogwipo City, having closely followed Jeju SK’s capacity to organize such events, joined forces with local agriculture, animal husbandry, and cooperatives on Jeju Island to propose this initiative first. This wouldn’t have been feasible without the expertise of Jeju SK. Starting from 2023, Jeju SK has focused on enhancing its skills for managing major events as part of efforts to improve club operations and bolster financial stability through the "K League Financial Consolidation System." The main objective is to diversify income sources using innovative marketing approaches beyond traditional sports-related ventures.

In the past year, Jeju SK brought various external events like the 'Black Korean Beef Fair,' 'Discount Seafood Expo,' and 'Social Enterprise Festival' to their stadium. Through these initiatives, they gained comprehensive expertise and emergency management skills encompassing planning, structuring, and running events smoothly. To further enhance trust and facilitate event operations, they included 'Event Agency Services' in their business license.

Specifically, the participation in the event surged considerably because of engagement with attendees from nearby games. During this time, it also offered chances for stronger connections with different institutions, organizations, and local communities. This evolution in Jeju played a key role in rejuvenating both direct and indirect aspects of the regional economy. Consequently, numerous questions regarding the organization of additional events kept coming up persistently.

The participation of "Jeju, Jeju Union Member Day" was equally appreciated. To offer substantial benefits and boost consumer interest through membership engagement, Jeju SK organized an array of activities and initiatives. Slogans like “Let’s enjoy some rice cakes! Let’s get excited and move forward!” highlighted key offerings such as the ‘Pork Sampling Event’, ‘Experience Booth for Jeju Mandarin Agriculture Co-op’, ‘Taste Test for Mandarins from Jeju Agriculture Association’, ‘Sampling Delight: Horsemeat Edition’, and ‘Beef Extravaganza’.

Nevertheless, it holds little value unless there is some benefit associated with the medium of ‘soccer.’ In pursuit of this, Jeju SK organized an air guitar competition involving pig farmers during halftime. Additionally, Jeju citrus growers contributed to the spirit of mutual gain by gifting a caraway-scented item to visiting supporters near the S-seok gate. The players also got involved enthusiastically. Kim Hyun-woo joined a meet-and-greet session, which elevated the festive mood significantly.

Jeju SK’s endeavor persists as they aim to assess numerous tangible and intangible impacts via the management and representation of major regional festivals. Their vision extends beyond merely excelling in football, striving instead for a fresh approach in how professional sports clubs market themselves. A representative from Jeju SK stated, “Our commitment remains focused on initiating novel experiences, amplifying promotional synergies, and ensuring unparalleled customer contentment.”

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Mitoma's Liverpool Move Confirmed: The Ultimate Stage for Glory as Diaz Makes Way

Kaoru Mitoma, renowned for his exceptional ball control skills in Japanese football, has strong ties with Liverpool. The club views Mitoma as an asset who could bolster their attacking capabilities, particularly as they plan to bring in several new players next season.

Currently, Liverpool intends to allow their central forward Darwin Núñez to leave the team, and they may also see aggressive right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold transferring to Real Madrid next season. To enhance their chances of success for the upcoming campaign, the club desperately needs fresh attacking talent.

On the 19th (local Korean time), The British Football Insider reported that Arne Slot, the manager of Liverpool, intends to sign Brighton's star player Kaoru during the upcoming summer transfer window to strengthen their attacking lineup.

Liverpool has already begun unofficially searching for candidates for recruitment at a time when rumors of transfers are rampant about the future of various strikers in the team.

Liverpool is working hard to recruit a new striker at a time when their break-up with Darwin Núñez is almost certain.

Regarding this matter, ex-England footballer Paul Robinson asserted that Mitoma is prepared to take on the challenge at Liverpool. He believes Mitoma possesses the talent suited for a higher level of competition.

Forward Mitoma, playing for Brighton in the English Premier League (EPL), has caught the eye of multiple clubs such as Chelsea. There’s an increasing likelihood of him potentially moving to another team this summer.

Paul Robinson has previously mentioned that both Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez might depart from Liverpool during this summer. The club’s transfer director is advocating for a thorough overhaul of the attacking lineup.

Robinson stated, “Currently, there isn’t room for Mitoma within the Liverpool attack lineup due to players such as Díaz, Jota, and Salah being part of it along with additional options; however, his growth hasn’t been as significant as anticipated.” He further clarified, “Should a winger capable of playing on the left similar to Gakpo join the club, then Mitoma could serve as a valuable backup option.”

If both Diaz and Gakpo can operate effectively on the left flank, then Mitoma might not be essential," he stated. "The club has other areas they wish to strengthen initially due to the significant transfer cost Brighton would require. However, should the forward depart from the squad, Mitoma would be well-suited as an option for Liverpool.

Liverpool is currently considering recruiting new players like Mitoma, while also focusing on renewing contracts with existing players.

On the 17th, Liverpool announced the extension of captain Virgil van Dijk’s contract by an additional two years. Consequently, the team’s defensive duties will continue to rely heavily on him moving into the next season.

Previously, Liverpool also confirmed the contract extension for their star player and leading goalscorer, Mohamed Salah. With these key players staying with the team for another season, the squad’s confidence is at an all-time high as they look back on their glorious era.

Liverpool should also consider renewing their contract with Díaz. It is known that Diaz is interested in Saudi Arabian professional league clubs and Barcelona.

Díaz does not have as much weight as players like Van Dijk or Salah. If a reasonable offer arrives, Liverpool is expected to consider negotiations.

Liverpool paid 50 million pounds (about 95 billion won) when Diaz was recruited. It is said that if more than 60 million pounds (about 110 billion won) is offered, it plans to respond to the negotiations.

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Former Croatian Midfielder Killed in Tragic Karlovac Crash

• Nikola Pokrivac, a former Croatian national team player, has tragically died at the age of 39 in Karlovac.
• The ex-Shakhter Karagandy midfield player was apparently part of a four-car crash on April 18.
• Pokrivac represented multiple European teams such as Red Bull Salzburg, Dinamo Zagreb, and he particularly excelled during his time at Puskas Akademia FC.

Nikola Pokrivac, a prominent Croatian soccer player, tragically died at the age of 39 after being involved in a serious automobile crash on Friday, April 18.

The ex-Croatia U21 player was traveling with three previous teammates from NK Vojnic, with two still in serious condition.

Pokrovic was also included in the Croatian team that notably beat Germany during the group stage of UEFA Euro 2008.

Croatia FF honors Pokrivac

The Croatian Football Federation, known as the CFF, honored their 2010 FIFA World Cup midfielder through a post on social media.

As reported by the Daily Mail, the President of CFF stated that the passing away represents a profound sorrow for their football community. He mentioned:

At this profoundly shocking and unbearably sorrowful time, when we have lost a young life, it is impossible to find words of solace.

I can only extend my sincerest sympathies to Nikola’s family and close relatives regarding this irreplaceable loss. The Croatian Football Federation and the broader Croatian football community will stand beside them during these incredibly challenging times.

Nikola was an exceptional footballer, devoted to the game till his final breath, and demonstrated remarkable bravery in facing a severe illness throughout his life.

The player competed for Croatia at both the U19 and U21 levels as a midfielder, accumulating 39 caps in total.

He participated in the UEFA Euro 2008 finals and subsequently played in the 2010 FIFA World Cup as reported by Football London.

Despite earning 15 appearances for the senior national side, the ex-AS Monaco player failed to score a goal.

Clubs, fans mourn Pokrivac

Monaco and Red Bull Salzburg have taken the lead in honoring the Croatian ace with their tributes.

The club expressed sorrow over the passing of ex-midfielder Nikola Pokrivac, as stated in the Monaco announcement.

"We deeply regret the passing of our ex-player Nikola Pokrivac, who sadly lost his life in a car crash. Our hearts go out to his loved ones. May he rest in peace, Nikola," Red Bull Salzburg posted on Twitter.

Selmir Draganovic said:

First, he fought against cancer—twice—and then came this accident. He will forever remain our hero, particularly for our Dinamo Zagreb! 💙

Rest in peace, dear Nikola! 🕯️😔

Matej Duckic wrote:

Nikola Pokrivac; he conquered cancer thrice and is now facing this new challenge."

Info Atx added:

Repose in Peace, Nikola Pokrivac

We are profoundly distressed to learn about the heartbreaking death of ex-Croatian national team player Nikola Pokrivač in a vehicular crash.

Ludovic Robin posited:

All genuine sympathies go out to his family, loved ones, and AS Monaco. Rest in peace, Nikola Pokrivac 🕊️🙏🏼"

Chinese soccer player passes away at 19

According to Diwidi >.ng, a young Chinese football player passed away just a few hours shy of his 19th birthday following several months in a coma due to a head injury sustained during a game in Spain.

Guo Jiaxuan participated in a worldwide young footballer program initiated by Bayern Munich. He represented the Beijing Guoan youth squad up until he passed away last month.

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Dallas Cowboys' Jake Ferguson: From Football Legacy to Controversial Star Dating Haley Cavinder

Raised in Madison, Wisconsin, and participating in collegiate football at the nearby university, Ferguson stayed near his origins until he was selected by the Cowboys in 2022.

Jake Ferguson played football even when he technically wasn't playing football.

In 2022, he shared with Cowboys Wire, “I was expelled from my youth soccer team because of how aggressively I tackled opponents.” He recalled, “During a game, there was this small boy dribbling the ball. It seemed like he took it from my teammate. As one of the defenders, I felt compelled to make a play, so I ran after him and brought him down. After picking him up, they removed me from the league.”

That intuition, despite being frequently misdirected—such as initiating snowball battles at school or setting up touch football during break time until it was prohibited—evenually proved beneficial.

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Currently, he plays as a professional tight end for the Dallas Cowboys and is recognized for his relationship with an influencer who is also a college basketball player. Haley Cavinder This is how he arrived at his destination.

He hails from an American football dynasty.

Jake Ferguson, who came into this world in 1999, was raised in an environment saturated with football enthusiasm. His dad, Brad Ferguson, once tackled opponents as a linebacker for the University of Nebraska, and his mother’s father, Barry Alvarez, coached the team at the University of Wisconsin over two decades. This rich sporting legacy led Ferguson to embrace the sport himself.

By middle school, he had already taken over youth leagues. In one match, he caused injuries severe enough to send two players to the hospital; meanwhile, his teammate Billy Wilson contributed another injury with an unexpected tackle from behind. This led parents to wonder if both of them might not really be in sixth grade at all.

Wilson recounted in an interview with The Dallas Morning News that people were eager to see Jake get what they perceived as his just desserts.

Attending high school was quite similar.

During his freshman year at James Madison Memorial High School, Ferguson alternated between playing for the junior varsity andvarsity teams. In one particular JV match, he tackled the opposing quarterback repeatedly until the player decided to leave the game midway through. Even after replacing him with another player, Ferguson continued his aggressive play by taking down this new opponent as well.

“I’m not one for hurting people,” Ferguson said to the Morning News. “It’s something I really dislike. It’s unfortunate when it happens. However, after hitting him, I recall he emitted this loud cry, so I stepped back. I thought, ‘Whoa, we should call someone.’ Then suddenly, his mother started swinging punches at me unexpectedly. … All I could think was, ‘Wow, that was definitely a mom,’” he recalled.

He remained at home for his college education.

When Ferguson needed to make his choice, he received offers from Nebraska, Iowa State, Iowa, Northern Illinois, and Wisconsin, according to Cowboys Wire. Given that his elder sibling Joe was attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison and his grandfather was working as the university’s athletic director following his tenure as head coach since 2005, he opted to stay within the family circle.

At Wisconsin-Madison, he emerged as a crucial component of the offense, concluding his collegiate career with 145 receptions for 1,618 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns. This placed him among the leaders in almost all tight-end receiving records in the program’s annals.

In 2022, following his performances at the NFL Draft Combine and a regional Pro Day, he was chosen by the Dallas Cowboys in the fourth round of the draft.

He's dating Haley Cavinder

Away from sports, Ferguson is involved with Miami Hurricanes basketball player Haley Cavinder. They connected via social media in 2023 and frequently attend games to cheer for one another.

Their relationship appears quite serious, as evidenced by Ferguson getting Cavinder's initials, "H.C.," inked onto his right ring finger.

Whenever he isn’t on the field or spending time with Cavinder, Ferguson frequently stops by Fort Myers Beach, Florida, which became his mother’s new home once he went off to college.

“It becomes quite stressful,” he shared with Cape Coral Breeze. “It’s important to have activities that help you unwind.”

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Brits Abroad: How all 38 British players in Europe’s major leagues have fared in 2024-25

Academy graduates from Manchester United , Chelsea , Arsenal , Tottenham and Leeds United include several British athletes participating in Europe’s leading leagues during the 2024-25 season.

It's growing more common for both up-and-coming young talents and seasoned, established players to challenge themselves abroad. We compile such lists annually, and with each passing season, these rosters expand further.

We've closely examined the performances of all 38 British players who have played significant minutes in Serie A, Ligue 1, La Liga, and the Bundesliga this season and assessed their progress.

Jude Bellingham

Bellingham's first season with Real Madrid couldn't have been more successful.

He scored two Injury-time match-winning performances against Barcelona and numerous crucial goals, culminating in him concluding the season with titles from both La Liga and the Champions League — earning him the distinction of being the first Englishman to stand on the Ballon d'Or podium since Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard in 2005.

The second year hasn't been as impressive.

He has frequently appeared as a frustrated figure within Carlo Ancelotti’s often malfunctioning team, forced to compensate for the lack of effort from both Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe by doing extra work.

The newest Galactico's arrival at the club has hindered his chances as an emergency center-forward, a role in which he excelled frequently during the previous season.

Nevertheless, there's still a possibility that Bellingham will secure a domestic double by the end of the 2024-25 season. Stay tuned.

Conor Gallagher

The picture of Gallagher’s first season in Madrid is indelibly etched with Diego Simeone passionately celebrating a crucial defensive effort during a tight win against Athletic Bilbao.

You have always been aware that the Argentine would appreciate the Chelsea academy product's determination and commitment.

He has had some highlights — such as equalizing against Real Madrid in the Champions League — but Gallagher’s season seems destined to conclude with disappointment.

Just a couple of weeks back, Atlético were performing well across multiple competitions, but they have since significantly faltered in their pursuit for the La Liga title. Additionally, they've been eliminated from both the Champions League and Copa del Rey at the hands of rivals Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Gallagher has frequently fallen prey to Simeone’s rotational policy, managing to start approximately half of Atletico Madrid’s league matches.

Even though he seems ready for this fresh challenge and new surroundings, it wouldn’t shock us to witness him emulate Kieran Trippier’s example and make his way back to the Premier League within one or two years.

Max Aarons

This campaign, Aarons has been the overlooked third English player in Spain’s top division. He moved to Valencia on loan in January, having found limited playing time under Andoni Iraola at Bournemouth.

Carlos Corberan has made an impressive turnaround for Valencia's performance, though Aarons hasn't been significantly involved.

He has only featured in three matches across all competitions — two of which were heavy losses to Barcelona (7-1 and 5-0), with the third being a memorable 2-1 win over Real Madrid.

Talk about throwing him in at the deep end. Limited opportunities mean we can’t see this move being made permanent. Might a return to the Championship beckon?

Oli McBurnie

The ex-Sheffield United player had a stronger beginning in La Liga compared to Kylian Mbappe, providing two assists in just his initial three matches with Las Palmas.

However, he wasn’t expected to surpass Mbappe’s performance for an extended period, and subsequently, his goal-scoring record declined. It was just last month when he eventually began registering goals in Spain’s highest division, scoring in consecutive matches against Real Sociedad and Getafe.

It appears McBurnie is thoroughly enjoying his time in Gran Canaria and has lately demonstrated his remarkably fluent Spanish skills.

But things could be going better on the pitch, with Las Palmas finding themselves in the relegation zone ahead of the run-in.

Scott McKenna

McBurnie isn't the only pale Scottish international player struggling to adapt in the Canary Islands.

The 28-year-old defender has almost always been present for Las Palmas, accumulating more appearances and playing time compared to McBurnie. He recently delivered an outstanding performance in a crucial 1-0 win against Atletico Madrid.

An essential figure for their chances of making it through.

Harry Kane

England's captain will soon see their title drought come to an end.

Kane has performed reasonably well with 24 goals in his 28 Bundesliga appearances this season, and he might still keep his European Golden Shoe .

More importantly, Bayern have resumed normal service and are on the brink of sealing yet another Bundesliga title.

They lead the defending champions Bayer Leverkusen by eight points, with only four matches remaining.

QUIZ: Could you list all 26 British players who have played in the Bundesliga since the year 2000?

Jamie Gittens

The 2024-25 season has been extremely disappointing for Borussia Dortmund, as they currently occupy the seventh position in the Bundesliga and seem unlikely to secure a spot in the Champions League.

However, despite having a challenging season, Gittens (who has dropped the Bynoe) continues to stand out as a significant talent.

The young player, at just 20 years old, has made significant progress in his growth and appears poised to emulate Jadon Sancho and Bellingham by being transferred for a substantial profit.

Various reports suggest he plans to depart Dortmund during the upcoming summer, however, sporting director Lars Ricken asserts these rumors are inaccurate. Stay tuned for further updates.

Eric Dier

The defender’s powerful header against Inter sadly did not make a difference in Bayern’s Champions League elimination, yet it showed that he can still be an effective team member when performing well.

Despite not making it into the starting lineup for the Bundesliga’s upcoming champions, the 31-year-old still earns recognition from his coach.

"Eric is an experienced player who understands exactly what needs to be done in such situations," states Vincent Kompany.

Eric has great character and always puts the team first.

Carney Chukwuemeka

Among approximately ten thousand promising young players signed by Chelsea in recent years, Chukwuemeka naturally found it difficult to secure playing time at Stamford Bridge. In an effort to gain more match experience, he moved to Borussia Dortmund on loan during January.

The young midfielder, at 21 years old, has so far had just one starting appearance in the Bundesliga along with one goal. However, his recent role in leading Dortmund to an impressive come-from-behind win against Borussia Mönchengladbach has led Fabrizio Romano to suggest that the team plans to secure his services past this summer.

The Athletic asserts he possesses a €50 million (£43m) escape clause within his agreement, as reported by a German source. Kicker assert they were able to secure him for €35 million (£30m).

Oladapo Afolayan

Lesser-known Afolayan departed Bolton Wanderers to join FC St. Pauli in January 2023.

The forward achieved promotion in his first full season and has played his part in them looking home and dry from the threat of relegation in 2024-25.

Afolayan has scored three goals and provided one assist in 29 Bundesliga appearances (15 starts) this campaign.

Oliver Burke

To some extent, he has become somewhat overlooked, and we can safely conclude that Burke hasn't fully reached his potential following predictions about him becoming a future luminary.

The transition from Nottingham Forest to RB Leipzig didn’t pan out, and since then, his career has followed an unusual, up-and-down path as he moved between clubs.

Following unsuccessful stints on loan at Millwall and Birmingham City, Burke came back to his parent club, Werder Bremen, last summer. He has since taken up a supporting role within the team this season.

Burke has scored three goals in his past three Bundesliga matches, which were all wins, but he is anticipated to leave the club once this season concludes, with Union Berlin being considered a probable next stop for him.

Scott Banks

Banks, who previously represented Scotland at the youth level, was acquired by St. Pauli after playing for them on loan from Crystal Palace during their successful campaign to get promoted from the 2. Bundesliga.

However, the attacking midfielder has largely been relegated to a minor part, featuring as a substitute only 11 times, accumulating merely 92 minutes of playing time in the Bundesliga this season.

Fin Stevens

A third English player in St. Pauli’s team, international Welsh player Steven has found it difficult to get playing time since joining from Brentford last summer.

So far, his Bundesliga experience consists of just one brief appearance in stoppage time to secure a 3-0 win against Union Berlin.

Charlie Cresswell

Hyped as the future of Leeds United’s defense, Cresswell was unable to secure consistent playing time at his hometown club and departed to sign with Ligue 1 team Toulouse during the previous summer.

The English player at the under-21 level has had an impressive first season in France’s top division, and his $5 million move now looks like a steal.

Toulouse appeared ready to vie for a spot in Europe, but their performance has drastically declined recently.

However, during this decline, Cresswell has shown his prowess in set-pieces, scoring three goals in his past ten Ligue 1 matches.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles

Maitland-Niles recently caught the attention of the broader football community again during Lyon's chaotic Europa League exit against Manchester United - however, he has been performing admirably behind the scenes in France.

"Angel Gomes demonstrated that it's achievable for players in Ligue 1 to receive acknowledgment from England," French football journalist Matt Spiro remarked via Twitter in December.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles deserves consideration now. He is playing the finest football of his career at Lyon and is a crucial player for Pierre Gagne’s squad.

Once settled in France, the Hale End graduate has shown significant improvement and continues to be a trusted starter following the replacement of Sage with Paulo Fonseca as manager.

Chuba Akpom

Somewhat of a late bloomer, Akpom experienced a sudden surge in form, culminating in winning the Championship Golden Boot, which led to his transfer to Eredivisie powerhouse Ajax in 2023.

The forward had difficulties performing in the Dutch capital and was loaned out to Ligue 1 club Lille in January.

So far, he has netted two goals in 10 Ligue 1 matches, with most of these appearances coming as a substitute. It seems improbable that the transfer will become official.

Angel Gomes

Nearly a breakthrough with his limited appearances for England so far, Gomes showcased the ability to secure a position next to Declan Rice at the heart of the national team’s midfield.

However, despite bursting onto the international scene over the last 12 months, he appears to be struggling this fourth and presumably final season with Lille. Since December, playing time has been scarce for him.

The player, who is 24 years old, is nearing the end of his contract with Stade Pierre-Mauroy, and it seems Lille is planning for a future without him.

They say he has turned down a proposal from West Ham, and Roma is also being mentioned. One can assume there will be plenty of potential takers.

Jonathan Rowe

Last summer, Marseille secured the signing of highly-rated young Norwich City winger Rowe after defeating Leeds United in negotiations.

In retrospect, staying in the Championship could have been more beneficial for him.

He has played for Roberto De Zerbi’s Marseille, scoring three goals and providing two assists in Ligue 1, however, he has started only four out of his 24 league appearances this season.

"I've found it challenging on a personal level; the entire season has been tough," Rowe stated to journalists earlier this month.

The transition from Norwich, where I played a crucial role in the squad, to this new environment has been quite challenging, with high expectations for me to deliver.

I've accepted the challenges, and they haven’t been easy. I’ve often found myself benched, which naturally had an impact on me, I believe anyone could notice that. Nonetheless, I kept pushing forward, and that really matters.

It seems probable that they will return to England.

Jordan James

Last summer, Rennes signed the promising young player from Birmingham City.

At just 20 years old, the Welsh international still shows promising progress in his growth.

"Traveling to France has significantly shaped my personality, both off and on the field," James stated. BBC Sport .

I believe I have much greater impact on games nowadays. Though I'm still young, I no longer feel like that youthful child.

Sorba Thomas

It isn’t very common for a player from League One to be competing in one of Europe’s top divisions, but Huddersfield Town’s Welsh winger Thomas will spend the 2024-25 season on loan with Ligue 1 side Nantes.

This season, he has scored one goal and provided two assists in France's top division. After assisting twice in a 3-1 win against Kazakhstan during the previous international break, he continues to be an integral player in Craig Bellamy’s strategies.

Fikayo Tomori

This season, similarities can be drawn between Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan, as both teams have struggled significantly in Serie A and decided to make a coaching change.

Tomori recently went through six consecutive league matches without playing from the bench (during which Milan lost four), following reports that he had prevented potential transfers to Tottenham and Juventus in January.

However, he has lately come back into favor and performed exceptionally well as Milan thwarted Inter's ambitions for an unprecedented treble with a resounding 3-0 win in the Coppa Italia semifinals.

Recent reports from Italy indicate that the defender might be put up for sale this summer. This move could help AC Milan finance a "defensive overhaul," putting English teams on high alert.

Tammy Abraham

After being considered excess baggage at Roma following his gradual comeback from an extended injury absence, Abraham has been on loan at Milan for the 2024-25 season.

He’s notched 10 goals and seven assists in all competitions this season, frequently turned to as a super-sub.

Yet another English international from the past faces a choice this summer, wouldn’t you say?

Tino Anjorin

Anjorim, who came through Chelsea’s youth system, ultimately departed his original club during the previous summer after experiencing several mediocre loan spells elsewhere, joining Italian side Empoli in Serie A.

Roberto D'Aversa's team had a strong beginning to the season, emerging as somewhat of an unexpected force, but their performance has significantly declined since December. They have only managed four draws, zero victories, and suffered 12 losses in their past 16 matches in Serie A.

Anjorin has recorded only three assists, but he scored his first goal for the team fighting against relegation in last weekend’s crucial 2-2 tie with Venezia.

Lloyd Kelly

Last summer, Eddie Howe welcomed back Kelly, but the defender found it difficult to secure playing time following his move to Newcastle United as a free agent from Bournemouth.

Kelly subsequently signed with Juventus before the winter transfer window closed, and reports suggest there's a mandatory £20 million purchase option in the summer. A good move for the Magpies, indeed.

So far, the outcomes have varied; the player from Bristol was part of a 4-0 loss against Atalanta and a 3-0 defeat against Fiorentina. Juventus' spot in next year's Champions League is not yet secure.

Keinan Davis

The Aston Villa youth product had limited appearances during his first year at Udinese, yet he emerged as an unexpected hero, securing their place in Serie A with a winning goal in the 76th minute against Frosinone.

Unfortunately, the forward hasn’t fully recovered since then. This season, he has only managed six starting appearances in Serie A and scored just two goals with one assist to his name.

READ: 5 overlooked Aston Villa youth system players who achieved legendary status with other clubs

Ruben Loftus-Cheek

Tomori and Abraham have seen their appearances fluctuate within the starting lineup at the San Siro this season, much like their former Chelsea teammate.

Most of his appearances this season have come as a substitute, and he hasn't played much recently due to an urgent operation for acute appendicitis.

Loftus-Cheek did come back into the team as a later substitution to assist in maintaining the 3-0 win against Inter.

Kyle Walker

After quickly dropping in status due to Manchester City’s dramatic difficulties prior to Christmas, Walker concluded he needed to seek fresh opportunities following his eight successful years at the Etihad where he won multiple titles.

It is anticipated that he will remain with AC Milan once his loan concludes; however, various disappointments have occurred since he joined the team.

A month ago, he became an internet sensation by informing João Félix that he isn’t Messi.

It wasn't me telling Joao, 'you're not Messi, so pass the ball.' Instead, I said, 'we should ensure we follow a proper process,' " Walker stated on his podcast. Joao concurred and mentioned they needed to increase their passing and maintain better control.

I didn't only tell this to João. It wasn't clear there was a camera present. Nonetheless, I wouldn't alter anything I said.

Brooke Norton-Cuffy

Although Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly have had remarkable seasons with Arsenal, their teammate Norton-Cuffy has developed his skills on a different journey.

The 21-year-old right-back joined Genoa after gaining experience on loan at Millwall last season.

However, he has had to wait for chances, managing only three appearances in the highest tier of Italian football.

Patrick Vieira, a legendary figure for the Gunners, took over in November, yet it seems he hasn't gained their confidence any more than his predecessor Alberto Gilardino did.

Samuel Iling-Junior

Last summer, Aston Villa brought in the promising England Under-21 player from Juventus but promptly lent him back to Italy, where he joined Bologna.

Iling-Junior had difficulty securing playing time in Serie A, leading to him being called back by his parent club halfway through the season.

Since then, he has been featured more frequently in the second part of the season with Michael Carrick's Middlesbrough team, which is aiming for playoff contention.

Daniel Oyegoke

Another lesser-known figure, Oyegoke hasn't followed the most illustrious career trajectory since his time in the youth systems at Arsenal and Brentford.

The right-back from Barnet, who has played for MK Dons, Bradford City, and Hearts in his professional career, moved to Hellas Verona last summer.

This season, Oyegoke has only had five short cameo appearances in Serie A, as Verona remains comfortably positioned in the middle of the table.

Omari Forson

Touted as a promising player following his debut under manager Erik ten Hag at Manchester United during the previous season, Forson ultimately departed from Old Trafford when his contract was not renewed.

It seems that allowing him to depart was proven correct.

The young forward, just 20 years old, has not started a single game in the league for Monza, who currently occupy the last position in the Serie A standings and seem almost certain to face relegation.

Ben Godfrey

Last summer, Atalanta opted for an intriguing move by signing Godfrey from Everton in a £10 million transfer.

Even more intriguing was granting the defender a brief 22-minute appearance in Serie A.

Gian Piero Gasperini apparently did not have faith in him, leading to his loan to Ipswich Town for the second part of the season, where things haven't improved significantly.

It’s anticipated that Gasperini will leave Atalanta once the season concludes. This might result in Godfrey coming back to his parent club for the following term.

Dele Alli

Dele's highly anticipated Serie A start was cut short after just nine minutes when he received a direct red card.

He hasn't shown up since then, but we're still hoping he manages to improve his situation.

READ: Kyle Walker’s response to Dele Alli’s red card has somewhat improved our view of him.

Scott McTominay

McSauce is quite possibly the most successful tale on this roster. Priced at an incredible £25 million, it’s truly a steal.

In his first season with Antonio Conte’s championship-contending Napoli, he has managed to score nine league goals (a tally higher than any player at Manchester United this season, interestingly enough).

Only Marcus Thuram and Ademola Lookman boast higher average WhoScored ratings in Serie A, and he could very well be in contention for Player of the Season if Napoli secure the Scudetto title.

The midfielder also enjoys the warmer weather.

"Oh wow, the tomatoes. Simply magnificent," he said. The Athletic in April 2025.

I never consumed them at my place; they were merely reddish liquid. However, here they genuinely have a tomato flavor. Nowadays, I enjoy them as a treat. I consume every vegetable and fruit available. Everything tastes incredibly fresh. It’s amazing.

Billy Gilmour

Although McTominay remains one of Conte’s top deputies, his fellow Scottish international Gilmour has found himself somewhat on the periphery.

Nevertheless, he has participated significantly with 11 starting appearances in Serie A and an additional 10 substitute appearances.

From the start, he made a strong impression in a recent 3-0 win against Empoli after seizing his opportunity when Frank Anguissa, Conte’s preferred choice, was injured.

Che Adams

After helping Southampton get promoted last season, the forward appears set to depart without any second thoughts.

Adams has netted 10 goals across all competitions for Torino, matching the same number of goals that the renowned Denis Law achieved for the team during the 1961-62 season.

Liam Henderson

Who could have predicted this large-scale Scottish migration to Italy?

Henderson was quite influential as a trailblazer, initially signing with Bari way back in 2018 following his departure from Celtic. Since then, he has played for clubs like Hellas Verona, Lecce, and Palermo. Currently, he is enjoying his second tenure at Empoli and stands out as the inaugural Scottish player to achieve the remarkable feat of playing 100 Serie A matches.

The midfielder, who remains uncapped at the senior level for Scotland, has played significantly more often for the struggling team compared to Anjorin.

When his contract ends this summer, it will be intriguing to observe if he remains in Italy or decides to pursue opportunities somewhere else.

Lewis Ferguson

The Scottish national team player was sidelined for the initial part of the season as they recovered from an anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained in April.

Ferguson returned in November, yet the season has been an exasperatingly inconsistent one for him as he strives to regain his form.

Bologna's captain has been sidelined due to muscle and hamstring injuries, preventing him from playing consistently despite making sporadic appearances in 13 Serie A matches.

He still has the chance to conclude the season by winning the Coppa Italia, however. Bologna will face AC Milan in the final.

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