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TOP‘I don’t want to leave’… 23-year-old Barcelona player talks about his future, more competition, and the Nico Williams operation
FC Barcelona's summer transfer window has focused on internal adjustments rather than major signings. The club prioritized player renewals and exits, securing extensions for Wojciech Szczesny and finalizing Lamine Yamal's renewal. Departures like Pablo Torre and Ansu Fati generated income and freed up significant funds. Amidst exit discussions, 23-year-old left-back Gerard Martin's future has been a topic. Despite Alejandro Balde being the undisputed starter, Martin expressed clear motivations in an interview. He stated his collective goal is to "win everything" and his personal aim is to "always improve on last season and keep growing." He firmly denied wanting to leave, saying, "I'm really happy here at Barça, and I don't want to leave," and emphasized his hope for the coach and club's faith in him. Martin also addressed potential squad competition calmly, stating, "No, I'm calm... competition is good—it helps everyone improve." He commented positively on new signing Joan Garcia, calling him a "great signing" who was "good and happy." Regarding the failed move for Nico Williams, Martin admitted limited knowledge, simply noting, "It seemed like he was going to come, but in the end, he didn't." Martin enters the new season as an established Barcelona player, benefiting from coach Hansi Flick already knowing him from the previous campaign.
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TOPColin Cowherd Makes Opinion On Jalen Hurts' Ranking Clear
Despite leading the Philadelphia Eagles to two Super Bowls, including a win in 2022, quarterback Jalen Hurts was ranked only ninth among NFL quarterbacks in a poll of league executives, coaches, and scouts. Sports commentator Colin Cowherd expressed intrigue by this ranking and defended it on his show "The Herd." Cowherd argued that statistics suggest Hurts isn't as impressive upon closer examination as he might appear at first glance. He believes Hurts is a good quarterback but attributes the Eagles' success more to the team's coaching philosophy than Hurts' individual passing skills. Cowherd specifically stated that Hurts is not an elite pocket passer, quoting, "The Eagles basically had one of those philosophical resets and what they decided was, 'This offense is great as long as we pass the ball fewer times.'" While acknowledging Hurts might not be an elite passer like Patrick Mahomes or Joe Burrow, the summary notes he has consistently succeeded in getting the Eagles to the playoffs. In four seasons as a full-time starter, Hurts has led the Eagles to the playoffs each time, reached the Super Bowl twice, and won the NFC East division title in both Super Bowl seasons. His career statistics include a 65.4% completion rate and a 45-17 record as a starter. However, the summary points out limitations in Hurts' passing production: he has never thrown for 4,000 yards or 25 touchdowns in a single season. His mobility compensates for this, but it also leads to criticism that he is a less polished passer. Furthermore, it suggests the Eagles' success in 2024 might be more attributable to star running back Saquon Barkley than any significant improvement in Hurts' passing abilities.
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Olivia Culpo Reacts to Getting "Roasted" Over Her Hospital Baby Bag
Olivia Culpo responded to criticism about the contents of her hospital bag after giving birth to her first child with husband Christian McCaffrey on July 13. She defended her choices in a July 15 Instagram Story, specifically highlighting her flameless candles as "AMAZING" during her post-C-section recovery. Culpo addressed backlash from fans about her packed items, stating she ultimately used everything during her 3-4 day hospital stay. She emphasized the importance of "creature comforts" during recovery and shared her list hoping to help other "comfort queens." In a July 11 TikTok, Culpo revealed her extensive packing list required two large suitcases. Key items included her own pillows ("I'm such a pillow snob"), fluffy blankets, twin-sized comforters for both parents, sleep masks, mini fans, aromatherapy spray, and the flameless candles—which she humorously called "the most ridiculous thing." Additionally, she prepared post-birth kits for both vaginal and C-section scenarios, along with luxury self-care items: multiple pajamas, makeup, hair/skin products, and breastfeeding aids. Culpo acknowledged many items were "luxuries as opposed to essentials" but aimed to make her hospital stay more comfortable.
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Rams newcomer named 'most important non-QB' for 2025 season
The article reports on CBS Sports analyst Jared Dubin's selection of the most important non-quarterback player for the Los Angeles Rams, identifying veteran wide receiver Davante Adams as that key figure. Dubin emphasizes that while multiple players could fit this role, Adams stands out due to his potential impact on the team's success despite not being a quarterback. Adams, a recent acquisition, was chosen because he fills a critical offensive need. The analysis notes that Adams was considered a strong fit for the Rams even before free agency opened, primarily because quarterback Matthew Stafford has historically thrived with two elite receivers. Despite his age, Adams remains a top-tier player and offers greater versatility in lining up both inside and outside compared to his predecessor, Cooper Kupp. The article suggests Adams could significantly elevate the Rams' offensive potential if he maintains his recent high level of play. While acknowledging that other newcomers like Puka Nacua, an offensive lineman, or Jared Verse might also be impactful, it underscores that the Rams specifically targeted Adams as Kupp's replacement, prioritizing his elite skillset above other offensive additions. Dubin's reasoning centers on Adams' comprehensive value: his ability to play anywhere on the field, his extensive veteran experience, and his status as one of the NFL's best current receivers, making him the most vital non-QB component for the Rams.
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Green Bay Packers Linked to Big Reunion Before Entering 2025 Season
The Green Bay Packers enter the 2025 NFL season as a team to watch, aiming to prove they are legitimate contenders after making the playoffs in both seasons since Aaron Rodgers' departure, despite falling short in the playoffs both times. Jordan Love leads the team into his third season as starting quarterback, supported by an elite offense. Defensively, the Packers have potential under second-year coordinator Jeff Hafley, but questions remain about their secondary. Analyst Matt Holder suggests the Packers are a top landing spot for veteran free agent cornerback Rasul Douglas to address the secondary concerns. Holder argues Douglas, who had a successful stint with Green Bay a few years ago and is well-liked by fans, would make sense. He notes that after trading Jaire Alexander, the Packers plan to start Nate Hobbs and Keisean Nixon at outside cornerback, but both are considered better at nickelback; adding Douglas could allow one to move back inside. Douglas' production declined slightly with the Buffalo Bills in 2024 (58 tackles, 1 FF, 5 PD in 15 games) compared to his strong 2023 season split between Green Bay and Buffalo (61 tackles, 1 sack, 3 FR, 5 INTs, 1 TD, 14 PD). A reunion with Douglas is presented as a logical option for the Packers to shore up their defensive backfield, though the team's interest remains unknown.
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Hale End graduate rejects Dortmund model to fight for his place at Arsenal
Ethan Nwaneri has decided to reject interest from other clubs, including Borussia Dortmund, and is set to sign a new contract with Arsenal. This comes after weeks of speculation about his future, with only one year left on his previous deal and reported hesitation due to concerns over securing sufficient first-team playing time. Borussia Dortmund had specifically targeted Nwaneri, offering a long-term midfield prospect role and a tailored development plan similar to the one that helped Jude Bellingham succeed. Their model promised significant game time and a central role, an offer many young talents would find hard to refuse. Despite this enticing alternative and the recent arrivals strengthening Arsenal's attack (like Noni Madueke and the potential signing of Eberechi Eze), Nwaneri has chosen to stay at his boyhood club. His decision signals a strong belief in his ability to earn a long-term role and compete for a starting spot within Mikel Arteta's squad. The 18-year-old forward already has significant experience for his age, making 26 Premier League appearances (4 goals, 2 assists) and featuring in 7 Champions League matches (2 goals). His new contract represents the next step in his development at Arsenal, where he could potentially become a deputy for Martin Ødegaard.
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Six NAIA Football student-athletes nominated to the 2025 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team
A record-breaking 197 nominees have been announced for the 2025 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team®, the highest number in the award's 34-year history. College football student-athletes and head coaches from all levels are recognized for their commitment to community service and leadership beyond football. Sam Acho, ESPN analyst, former NFL player, and 2010 Good Works Team member, praised the nominees, stating their commitment creates lasting change and inspires others. This year's nominees are addressing critical issues including youth mentorship, mental wellness, homelessness, and healthcare access. Allstate is partnering with the Wuerffel Foundation for the second year to align the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team recognition with the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy, honoring excellence in community service, academics, and athletics. Danny Wuerffel, namesake of the trophy, emphasized the significant "ripple effect" created by nearly 200 young athletes choosing to serve, noting their community leadership deserves recognition equal to their on-field performance. The final roster of 23 award recipients will be announced in September. It will comprise 11 players from the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), 11 players from the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), Divisions II, III, and the NAIA, plus one head coach. A voting panel of former team members, head coaches, and journalists will select the team based on outstanding leadership on and off the field. Established in 1992, the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team honors college football players and staff for their off-field community efforts. The Southeastern Conference (SEC) leads all conferences with 89 selections since the award's inception, followed by the Atlantic Coast Conference (55) and the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (43). The University of Georgia has the most honorees (24), followed by Kentucky and Bethel (Minn.) with 18 each.
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Camron Cooper named nominee for Allstate AFCA Good Works Team
Camron Cooper, a redshirt junior linebacker at UTSA, has been nominated for the 2025 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team®, as announced by Allstate and the American Football Coaches Association. This year saw a record-breaking 197 nominees, the highest number in the award's 34-year history. Established in 1992, the award recognizes college football players and student staff for their off-field community service efforts. Since 2008, Allstate has presented the award, and for the second year, is partnering with the Wuerffel Foundation to align this honor with the Wuerffel Trophy, recognizing excellence in community service, academics, and athletics. Cooper's nomination highlights his extensive volunteer work. His efforts include mentoring and reading to students through UTSA's Rowdy Readers program at Virginia Meyers Elementary, making regular visits to Christus Children's Hospital patients, serving as a course monitor for the Diploma Dash, supporting the San Antonio Food Bank, participating in the Get in the Game, Save a Life Campaign, mentoring youth at local sporting events, and being active in UTSA's Fellowship of Christian Athletes. During the 2023 Frisco Bowl trip, he volunteered with Frisco Fastpacs, building food care packages for children. On the field, Cooper played in all 13 games last season for UTSA, contributing at outside linebacker and on special teams. Notable performances include a season-high four tackles in his first start at Army, a blocked punt against Florida Atlantic, recording two tackles (including a sack) and causing a fumble at Tulsa, another sack against Temple, and two stops in the Myrtle Beach Bowl win against Coastal Carolina. The award honors college football student-athletes and coaches for their commitment to community service and leadership beyond football. Quotes from Danny Wuerffel (namesake of the Wuerffel Trophy) and Sam Acho (former Good Works Team member) emphasized the significant impact and inspiration created by the nominees' service. The final roster of 23 award recipients will be announced in September, selected by a panel of former team members, head coaches, and journalists based on outstanding on and off-field leadership. The article concludes with details about UTSA's upcoming 15th football season, starting with a nationally televised game against Texas A&M on August 30th. The Roadrunners will host several home games at the Alamodome, including matchups against Texas State, UIW, Rice, Tulane, East Carolina, and Army. Information is provided on purchasing season or single-game tickets, renewals for season-ticket holders, and free admission for current UTSA students. Merchandise commemorating UTSA Football's 15th season is also available.
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Fox Sports Names Two Falcons to 2020s Future Half-Decade Team
Two Atlanta Falcons players, running back Bijan Robinson and right guard Chris Lindstrom, were selected by Fox News NFL Reporter Ben Arthur for his 2020s Future Half-Decade team (projected 2025-29). Robinson earned the nod over Detroit's Jahmyr Gibbs. Arthur cited Robinson's impressive 2024 season: 1,866 total yards (1,456 rushing, 410 receiving) and 15 total touchdowns, ranking him fourth in scrimmage yards and tied for third in touchdowns, leading to his first Pro Bowl selection. Arthur argued Robinson is likely to receive a heavier workload than Gibbs in the coming years due to Atlanta's unproven quarterback situation (Michael Penix Jr.) and less high-end talent at wide receiver, coupled with the fact Robinson doesn't share carries with a Pro Bowl-caliber running back like Gibbs does. The report noted that while Arthur expects Robinson to get more usage, the talent level of the top wide receiver duos for both Atlanta (Drake London, Darnell Mooney) and Detroit (Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams) was comparable, with both duos featuring two top-25 receivers in yards; specifically, Mooney and London were the only duo where both receivers were top 25 in yards and each had 60+ catches. Arthur also selected guard Chris Lindstrom, highlighting his status as PFF's top-ranked guard for each of the last three seasons. Lindstrom's 2024 performance was exceptional, allowing just one sack and eight quarterback hits over nearly 1,100 snaps. Arthur pointed out Lindstrom had the NFL's best run-blocking grade among qualified guards in both 2022 and 2023 according to PFF, and has been a top-five run-blocking guard every season since 2021. Over the last two seasons combined, he has surrendered only four total sacks, a feat noted as particularly impressive given the pocket mobility issues of Atlanta's quarterbacks Kirk Cousins, Desmond Ridder, and Taylor Heinicke during that period. Lindstrom was also recently ranked as ESPN's No. 7 interior lineman for next season.
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Liverpool Make ‘Club to Club Approach’ for Player ‘Better Than Mohamed Salah’
Liverpool have made a "club to club approach" for Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak, though no formal offer has been submitted. Newcastle are reluctant to sell their key player, described as "better than Mohamed Salah", and Liverpool are aware of this stance. The Reds have communicated their interest in a potential deal worth around £120 million. Should they fail to sign Isak, Liverpool are considering entering the race for Hugo Ekitike. However, this puts Newcastle in a predicament, as they themselves submitted a bid for Ekitike yesterday with the intention of him playing *alongside* Isak. It now appears Newcastle will likely have to choose between keeping Isak or signing Ekitike for the coming season. Liverpool's pursuit of a striker like Isak is driven by their need for attacking reinforcements. The likely departures of Darwin Nunez and Federico Chiesa, combined with Luis Diaz's potential move to Bayern Munich, would leave manager Arne Slot with only three forwards: Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Diaz. All three are naturally wide players, creating a need for a strong central striking option. Isak is seen as an ideal solution. He is a prolific striker who also offers the versatility Liverpool value in their forwards. Slot could tactically deploy Isak on the left flank when needed, providing flexibility. Signing the 25-year-old Isak is viewed as crucial for Liverpool's ambitions of winning back-to-back league titles.
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Ronaldo Backs Lionel Messi to Play in 2026 World Cup: ‘He Still Sprints 40 Metres’, Will Give Argentina a Big
On July 15, 2025, Cristiano Ronaldo publicly expressed his support for longtime rival Lionel Messi to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The endorsement, reported at 19:26 IST, highlights Ronaldo's belief that Messi should extend his international career despite their historic rivalry.
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Arsenal in final stages of Ethan Nwaneri talks over new contract
Arsenal are finalizing a new long-term contract for midfielder Ethan Nwaneri, effectively ending any possibility of his departure. Nwaneri, whose current deal had entered its final 12 months, attracted significant interest from Premier League and foreign clubs. However, the England Under-21 international prioritized staying at Arsenal, the club he joined at age eight. Negotiations accelerated upon his return from representing England and taking a holiday, as Arsenal could only propose new terms after he turned 18 in late March. The academy graduate is now ready to commit. Nwaneri enjoyed a breakthrough 2024-25 season, contributing nine goals and two assists across 37 appearances for Mikel Arteta's team. This substantial playing time for a young talent meant game time assurances were not a demand during contract talks. He was primarily deployed on the right side of Arsenal's attack, featuring prominently when Bukayo Saka was injured, and is expected to soon occupy a more central role, providing competition and back-up for captain Martin Odegaard. Analysis highlights Nwaneri's clear ambition. Despite his nine-goal season, he publicly stated he aimed for ten. He identified his goal against Manchester City as his standout moment from the season. Nwaneri also achieved notable Champions League milestones, becoming the youngest player to score in successive Champions League games (against Girona and PSV Eindhoven) and is now the third-youngest scorer in a Champions League knockout game, behind Jude Bellingham and Bojan.
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Arsenal verbally agree £13m deal for La Liga player
Arsenal are advancing towards signing Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera, with multiple reports confirming the deal is progressing significantly. Following initial bids, Valencia attempted to secure a contract extension for Mosquera, but Fabrizio Romano states there is "no chance" of that as the player is solely interested in joining Arsenal. David Ornstein confirms Arsenal are working to complete the deal, which is now very advanced. Personal terms between Mosquera and Arsenal are already agreed, and the two clubs are close to reaching a formal agreement. Romano reports a verbal agreement is in place for a €15m (£13m) fee plus add-ons, bringing the total package to less than €20m (£17.3m), with the medical scheduled for this week if plans proceed. Valencia journalist Hector Gomez, who previously highlighted significant differences in valuation, now acknowledges Arsenal have substantially improved their offer and that negotiations are advanced and moving quickly. Sam Dean adds that Arsenal expect Mosquera to join their pre-season tour later this week. The 21-year-old centre-back made 41 appearances for Valencia in the 2024/25 season and has debuted for the Spanish senior national team, though he played for the U21s at the Euros this summer. Born in 2004, he will qualify as an U21 player in the Premier League squad lists this season, meaning he won't occupy a non-homegrown spot domestically. However, he will need to be registered as a non-homegrown senior player in the Champions League, as UEFA requires two seasons at a club for U21 list eligibility. Mosquera was in the final year of his contract with Valencia, which contributed to Arsenal securing a cut-price agreement.
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New England Patriots links 7/14/25 - Diggs digging into McDaniels’ playbook
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Luka Modric signs with AC Milan after 13 seasons at Real Madrid
The weather forecast indicates a mix of sunshine and clouds with possible stray showers or thunderstorms, reaching a high of 91°F. Winds will be WNW at 5-10 mph. Evening conditions will be partly cloudy with a low near 70°F and light winds, as updated on July 14, 2025. A group from Martha Davis Baptist Church in Jefferson City recently completed a historic Civil Rights tour, visiting key movement landmarks in Birmingham, Montgomery, Lowndes County, and Selma. In sports, the Morristown 11U All-Stars were eliminated from the Nolensville Little League State Tournament after losing 5-3 to Clarksville in extra innings. Morristown's Howard earned academic recognition by being named to the Wofford Dean's List. Tennessee Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley will step down in Q3 2025 after nearly seven years in Governor Bill Lee’s cabinet. Oaks Orlando Bowen, 89, of Rutledge, passed away on July 10, 2025, surrounded by family. A brick house property is listed for sale with minimal details, noted as likely requiring relocation or demolition by potential buyers. Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric participated in Club World Cup matches in the U.S., including a July 9 semifinal against PSG in East Rutherford and a July 1 round-of-16 game against Juventus in Miami Gardens.
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Report De Winter prefers Inter to Tottenham Hotspur for 25m deal
Belgian reports indicate Inter Milan are close to finalizing a €25 million deal (including add-ons) to sign Genoa defender Koni De Winter. The 23-year-old Belgian international centre-back is said to prefer a move to Inter over Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur. De Winter, who has impressed over the last two seasons at Genoa, attracted interest from several clubs this summer, including Bologna and Atalanta. However, Tottenham and Inter emerged as the primary contenders for his signature. Despite De Winter reportedly choosing Inter, the transfer is not considered imminent. Inter must first sell a player to free up space in their defensive lineup before completing the move. Personal terms between De Winter and Inter are reported to be agreed. De Winter, who has three senior caps for Belgium, moved to Italy in 2018 to join Juventus. He transferred permanently to Genoa for €8 million in 2024 after an initial loan spell. As part of that deal, Genoa still owes Juventus a 20% cut of any future sell-on fee.
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SEC commissioner Greg Sankey talks CFP format, differences with the Big Ten, March Madness expansion (and everybody listens)
SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey addressed key issues in college sports during his opening remarks at SEC Football Media Days in Atlanta. He reiterated his support for exploring expansion of the men's and women's NCAA Tournaments, stating "nothing else in college basketball is static." Sankey commented on the bipartisan SCORE Act legislation in Congress, which aims to assist college sports with antitrust protection. He also advised patience regarding the new revenue-sharing model and efforts to crack down on fake Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. Regarding football scheduling, Sankey noted that all SEC teams play at least nine games against Power Four opponents and suggested no Big Ten, ACC, or Big 12 team would want to exchange schedules with an SEC lineup. Sankey made four significant comments about the future of the College Football Playoff (CFP) starting in 2026. First, he clarified that control over the CFP format has been frequently discussed with little clarity recently. This follows Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark's suggestion last week that governance is shared by the Big 12, ACC, Big Ten, and SEC.
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Trump kept FIFA Club World Cup trophy for himself - leaving champions Chelsea to lift a replica
President Donald Trump revealed that FIFA officials presented him with the original FIFA Club World Cup trophy, which is currently displayed in the Oval Office. Trump explained that during FIFA President Gianni Infantino's visit to the White House in March, officials asked him to hold the trophy temporarily. However, they later informed him they would not retrieve it and were making a new trophy instead, allowing the original to remain in the Oval Office "forever". This situation meant that Chelsea FC, despite winning the inaugural competition's final against Paris Saint-Germain at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, received only a replica trophy for their victory. During an interview with broadcaster DAZN before the final, Trump also joked about the possibility of issuing an executive order to change the name of "soccer" to "football" in the US, stating "I think I could do that." Trump's appearance at the final generated significant attention. He and First Lady Melania Trump were jeered by fans when shown on the stadium screens and again when he walked onto the pitch alongside Infantino to present medals to the players. Infantino had recently confirmed FIFA opened a new office in New York City's Trump Tower. Further confusion occurred online when Trump remained on stage celebrating with the Chelsea players after presenting the replica trophy to captain Reece James.
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Which teams have already qualified for the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup?
The 2029 FIFA Club World Cup, featuring 32 teams, already has its first four participants confirmed, despite the recent conclusion of the previous edition where Chelsea defeated Paris Saint-Germain. These four teams secured their spots based on the qualification cycle covering the period 2025-2028. While the tournament will host 32 teams distributed across various slots, only these four spots out of the total 32 are currently filled.
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New club confirmed as goalkeeper agrees deal to leave Liverpool
Liverpool have implemented several changes to their goalkeeping department this summer, aiming to provide experience to certain players and strengthen the pool with individuals showing potential to eventually challenge for the first-team starting role. One key move involves Caoimhin Kelleher securing a permanent transfer to Brentford. This allows him to play regular Premier League football, moving out of Alisson Becker's shadow at Liverpool. Another departure is Polish goalkeeper Jakub Ojrzynski. The 22-year-old, who joined Liverpool in 2019, made a Premier League matchday squad during the 2020/21 season under Jurgen Klopp but never made a senior appearance. He developed steadily through the academy, signing a professional contract and undertaking loan spells to improve. Ojrzynski consistently struggled to break into the first-team setup, finding himself behind Alisson Becker and Caoimhin Kelleher in the pecking order, with Adrian also ahead of him for a period. His contract expired at the beginning of the summer, making him a free agent. He has now completed a permanent transfer to Swedish club Orebro SK, signing a contract that runs until 2026.
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Has run to Club World Cup final been worth it for Chelsea?
Chelsea will receive over 10% of the $1 billion Club World Cup prize fund regardless of the final result against Paris St-Germain, a significant financial boost after their summer spending. The tournament offers more than just money for manager Enzo Maresca's team. It represents a chance to win a second trophy following their June Conference League victory, potentially silencing critics of the club's strategy of signing young players on long contracts. It also provides an opportunity to claim the title of world champions until the next tournament in 2029. Reaching the final involved significant effort amidst challenges. Chelsea had a shorter pre-season before the Premier League begins on August 16th and had to contend with potential injuries. Their non-international players had a 10-day break after the Conference League final, while others joined the squad just a week after international duty. Extensive travel across the United States was required: training at Cobham, a match in Atlanta, basing in Philadelphia for the group stage, moving to Miami, and finally settling in New York for the semi-final and final. The intense heat encountered everywhere impacted their training capabilities. Managing player happiness presented another challenge. Manager Maresca afforded players significant freedom to enjoy downtime in US cities while demanding professionalism. Crucially, players were allowed to meet friends and family, especially from the knockout stages, which helped maintain morale. The club also brought in Football Association staff to organize the camps, including arranging entertainment and accommodation for players' families.
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Bills Overcoming ‘Big Brother’ Chiefs Could Come Down to Centimeters
The central question revolves around whether the Buffalo Bills can finally overcome the Kansas City Chiefs in the playoffs, drawing an analogy to younger siblings surpassing older ones in competitive families. Domonique Foxworth asserts the Chiefs remain the "big brothers" of the AFC, noting their regular-season struggles last year didn't prevent success, and he anticipates evaluating the gap between Kansas City and other AFC contenders this season. Patrick Mahomes holds a dominant 4-0 playoff record against Josh Allen, despite Allen leading the regular-season series 4-1. Harry Douglas is skeptical of Buffalo's chances, stating Kansas City missing the playoffs would require "pigs to fly" and that the Bills could only win a postseason matchup if another team first upsets the Chiefs. He recounted a young Bills fan’s resignation after the 2023 AFC playoff loss, emphasizing the psychological toll an 0-5 playoff record against Mahomes and coach Andy Reid would inflict on the organization and fans. Bills fans are divided on whether Buffalo has equipped Allen adequately to challenge Kansas City. While the team extended contracts for Khalil Shakir, Christian Benford, and Terrel Bernard, they did not retain James Cook. ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell ranked Buffalo’s non-quarterback skill players 28th in the NFL, citing unthreatening receivers like Keon Coleman, Dawson Knox, and Dalton Kincaid. Allen’s MVP-caliber ability to elevate teammates and improvise with his legs was highlighted, exemplified by his game-winning touchdown run against the Chiefs in Week 11 when receivers failed to get open. In contrast, during the AFC Championship Game, Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo confidently blitzed with top cornerback Trent McDuffie on a critical fourth down. Allen nearly completed a spectacular play, but Kincaid dropped the pass. The article concludes that Buffalo’s capacity to create separation against Kansas City’s defense will be pivotal in determining the AFC’s Super Bowl representative.
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Wales relishing chance to eliminate England from Euro 2025: ‘We get to spoil the party’
Wales faces a significant challenge to advance to the quarter-finals of the 2025 Women's European Championship. To progress, they must defeat England by four goals in their final group game on Sunday and rely on France to beat the Netherlands. However, Wales also recognizes the opportunity to prevent England from reaching the knockout stages. Manager Rhian Wilkinson stated her team will not feel like they are "just here to participate" and will celebrate their achievements. She emphasized the players' long fight for this opportunity and embraced the rivalry, believing pushing England benefits the women's game. Wilkinson highlighted the tight group standings and goal difference, positioning Wales to potentially "spoil the party" for England. Currently ranked lowest in the competition, Wales has lost both its previous matches (4-1 to France and 3-0 to the Netherlands) and sits fourth with 0 points. Despite this, the team celebrates small victories, such as scoring their first major tournament goal against France. Midfielder Angharad James acknowledged the deep-seated rivalry with England, calling it "in our blood, our DNA," while focusing on delivering the game plan. She confirmed the desire to knock England out is inherent. England defender Alex Greenwood responded to being the team others relish beating, stating it's a pressure they are used to and invited by their success, something they take pride in. She emphasized England focuses on their own game plan and objectives.
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Ravens Sixth-Round Pick Tabbed As Possible Surprise in 2025
The Baltimore Ravens selected wide receiver LaJohntay Wester in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft to address their punt return deficiencies, with USA Today Ravens Wire identifying him as a potential surprise contributor. ESPN analyst Jamison Hensley noted that while Wester may see limited offensive snaps, he directly fills Baltimore's need for a return specialist after the team ranked 16th in punt return average (9.7 yards) using four different players last season. Wester demonstrated exceptional return abilities at Colorado, averaging 12.2 yards per punt return during his final collegiate season, including a 76-yard touchdown. His acceleration metrics at the Shrine Bowl (6.2 yards per second squared) ranked as the second-fastest offensive performance in the event's partnership with Zebra Sports. The 5-foot-10, 163-pound receiver also earned Honorable Mention All-Big 12 honors in 2025 after starting 12 games for Colorado, extending his streak to 50 consecutive games with at least one reception. NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein highlighted Wester's "speed and above-average production" in his draft profile, projecting him as an undersized slot target best suited for longer routes. While acknowledging concerns about Wester's limited catch radius and 2023 drops, Zierlein emphasized his big-play potential both as a slot receiver and punt returner. Wester additionally has ties to Baltimore's staff, having played under current Ravens running backs coach Willie Taggart at Florida Atlantic.
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Report – Saudi Pro League Clubs Could Still Raid Inter Milan This Summer
Saudi Pro League clubs may renew their pursuit of Inter Milan's top players later in the summer transfer window, according to La Repubblica via FCInterNews. This follows Inter already losing manager Simone Inzaghi, who left after four years to join Saudi club Al-Hilal for a lucrative contract. Saudi clubs have been actively recruiting from Serie A, securing players like Mateo Retegui from Atalanta for Al-Qadsiah and showing interest in Fiorentina's Moise Kean. They previously targeted Inter stars Nicolo Barella and Alessandro Bastoni this summer, but Inter successfully resisted those approaches. Interest from Saudi Arabia in Inter players reportedly remains active, with midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu also under consideration. La Repubblica indicates that Saudi clubs are not finished and could make another attempt to sign Inter players before the transfer window closes.
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Real Madrid are counting on Kylian Mbappe more than Vinicius Junior
Real Madrid concluded a trophyless 2024-25 season with a defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup, sparking analysis of the reasons behind their disappointing campaign. A prominent issue identified is the perceived lack of compatibility between star forwards Kylian Mbappé, who joined from PSG last summer, and Vinícius Junior. The article highlights concerns over the pair's lack of effort, citing the Club World Cup as a recent example, and notes rising tensions, particularly from Vinícius' side. Adding to the situation, Vinícius has reportedly paused contract negotiations with Real Madrid, raising concerns about his future at the club despite his current deal expiring in 2027, with the possibility of a departure emerging. Furthermore, reports indicate that Real Madrid, specifically club president Florentino Pérez, would favor retaining Mbappé over Vinícius if a choice had to be made. Pérez's long-standing pursuit of the French international is cited as a likely reason for this stance. Looking ahead to next season, manager Xabi Alonso faces the challenge of finding an effective balance. While there is a chance he might opt to start only one of the two forwards, his preference is to play both Mbappé and Vinícius together, acknowledging their world-class abilities. The key challenge remains ensuring they can perform effectively as a duo.
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Report: Serie A giants increase offer as Liverpool stick to £60m valuation
Napoli are intensifying efforts to sign Liverpool's Uruguayan striker, preparing a new bid exceeding €55 million as their primary summer attacking target. The 26-year-old player has reportedly agreed to personal terms with Napoli and is open to the move, with ongoing discussions potentially pushing Napoli's revised offer beyond €60 million in total value. Liverpool remain firm on their €65-70 million valuation despite Napoli's willingness to compromise. Negotiations continue actively, but sources indicate Napoli is unlikely to meet Liverpool's upper price threshold. The eventual success of the deal may hinge on structural elements like add-ons and payment terms rather than the base fee. The striker's Liverpool performance has been inconsistent since his transfer from Benfica, with 40 goals in 143 appearances falling short of expectations. His modest return of 7 goals in 47 games last season fueled transfer speculation. Napoli believes his style suits Serie A better, citing the league's history of revitalizing Premier League players from clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United. As Liverpool's new coach Arne Slot oversees preseason preparations, the club acknowledges that selling the striker would require attacking reinforcements. However, any departure must align with their valuation strategy. Napoli's imminent improved offer maintains engagement in this high-profile transfer saga, though a significant gap in valuation persists between the clubs.
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