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Spain's women's national team is displaying exceptional cohesion at the Euros, attributed largely to the high number of players from Barcelona. This club connection creates a style of play unusually sophisticated for the international level, leading them to win all three group games, score 14 goals (the highest), and advance to a quarter-final against Switzerland. The influence of Barcelona players is profound. In the 5-0 win against Portugal, five Barcelona players started: Ona Batlle, Patri Guijarro, Vicky Lopez, Alexia Putellas, and Claudia Pina. This number could have been higher; Irene Paredes was suspended, Cata Coll had tonsillitis, and Aitana Bonmati started on the bench due to recovery from meningitis (she was replaced by another Barcelona player, Lopez). Two more Barcelona players, Salma Paralluelo and Jana Fernandez, came on as substitutes, making eight of the 16 players used in the match affiliated with Barcelona. This pattern continued. Against Belgium (6-2), the starting lineup mirrored the Portugal game but included Paredes. Against Italy (3-1), six Barcelona players started despite changes. Leila Ouahabi, though now at Manchester City, spent most of her career at Barcelona. Eight of the eleven players used against Italy either currently play or have played for Barcelona, even though expected starting goalkeeper Coll hasn't yet played at the Euros. The reliance on Barcelona players isn't new. In a previous 7-1 Nations League win over Portugal, coach Montse Tomé fielded a starting XI entirely composed of players who were either current or former Barcelona players. This included eight active Barcelona players plus former players Mariona Caldentey, Laia Aleixandri, and Leila Ouahabi. Of the 23-player squad for Euro 2025, 10 are current Barcelona players (11 if counting Aleixandri, who just re-signed), and 13 players in total either currently play for or have played for Barcelona at some point.
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Trevor Lawrence, the Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback and 2021 No. 1 overall NFL draft pick, has experienced significant ups and downs during his first four seasons. His rookie year was marked by interception struggles, followed by a strong second season where he earned a Pro Bowl selection and led an epic playoff comeback. However, his 2023 campaign was again plagued by interceptions, and an injury-marred 2024 saw him and the Jaguars' offense struggle throughout Doug Pederson's final season as coach. Entering his fifth season and carrying the weight of a massive contract extension signed last year ($55 million annually), Lawrence feels an urgency to reset his career trajectory. He expressed on the Pardon My Take podcast that he believes he is entering his prime and needs to "really turn it on," praising the team's offseason moves as a positive start. Lawrence's career has featured streaks of elite, top-five quarterback play, but these have been consistently undermined by turnover issues, offensive inconsistency, mental errors, and surrounding deficiencies like offensive line play and lack of playmakers. The Jaguars' offense struggled significantly in 2024 even before Lawrence suffered a season-ending concussion on December 1st. In his 10 appearances, he surpassed 300 passing yards only twice and failed to reach 200 yards in six games. While he has faced substantial criticism for the team's mediocre results, the Jaguars have actively worked this offseason to support him. Key moves include hiring offensive coordinator Liam Coen, drafting wide receiver Travis Hunter, and upgrading the offensive line. Lawrence has voiced strong enthusiasm for the new offensive system under Coen, stating it fits his skill set better than previous schemes and praising the new staff and free-agent additions. On paper, the Jaguars appear much improved. While optimism exists for a swift turnaround, the article notes that pressure remains high, especially on the highly paid quarterback, and early-season struggles could quickly sour expectations. The article also includes brief updates on other NFL news: Rams WR Puka Nacua is excited to play with new teammate Davante Adams; the New York Jets signed CB Sauce Gardner to a four-year, $120.4 million extension; the Los Angeles Chargers revealed new uniforms, including a gold "Charger Power" alternate jersey and powder blue pants; and the Kansas City Chiefs signed G Trey Smith to a four-year, $94 million extension with $70 million guaranteed.
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The FIFA Club World Cup held in the United States from June 14 to July 13, 2025, served as a stark preview of heat challenges facing soccer, with players like Al Ain’s Park Yong-woo, Palmeiras’ Vitor Roque, Auckland City’s Gerard Garriga, and Al-Hilal’s Renan Lodi visibly struggling against extreme temperatures. Scientists warn that rising global temperatures make hosting tournaments like the upcoming 2026 World Cup—co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada—increasingly hazardous for players and spectators. Experts emphasize that FIFA may need to fundamentally adjust soccer’s calendar to mitigate heat risks. Professor Piers Forster of the Priestley Centre for Climate Futures urged governing bodies to consider "more dramatic measures," such as shifting matches to winter months or cooler latitudes, cautioning that current trends heighten the threat of heat-related tragedies. This concern is amplified by data showing global June-August temperatures have risen 1.05°C (1.89°F) since 1930, with European summers warming 1.81°C—accelerating since the 1990s. Climatologist Friederike Otto stressed that high-intensity outdoor sports must adapt scheduling to safer hours, stating matches should occur "in the early morning and late evening" to avoid life-threatening heat exhaustion. The recent Club World Cup’s disruption by extreme heat and thunderstorms underscores the urgency, as FIFA begins implementing adaptive measures ahead of future tournaments.
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The article describes how summer football coverage has changed, shifting from being largely football-free in the past (except during major tournaments) to a near non-stop experience with constant tournaments and transfer market activity. It announces the start date of the Premier League 2025-26 season (Friday, August 15), highlighting key opening fixtures: Liverpool vs Bournemouth, Aston Villa vs Newcastle United, Manchester United vs Arsenal, and Leeds United vs Everton. The article introduces a new weekly Premier League predictions game hosted by The Athletic. Each week, a different subscriber will predict the scorelines for all matches. These predictions will be compared against the author's picks, an algorithm-based model, and a child's predictions. The author humorously questions if the setup is designed to embarrass them. Subscribers interested in being selected as a weekly predictor must read the terms and submit their name, email address, location, and supported club via a provided Google Form or direct link. Participation requires acceptance of the Reader Submission Terms. Important data handling terms are specified: individual responses (display name and email) will be permanently deleted by May 24, 2026, with an option to request earlier deletion via email. Contact emails for questions ([email protected]) and privacy requests ([email protected]) are provided.
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Transfer expert Mike Brown reports that Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, and Brighton & Hove Albion are interested in signing Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott. German clubs have also shown interest. Elliott, 22, fell out of favour under Liverpool manager Arne Slot last season, starting only three times in the Premier League and Champions League, though he still contributed to six goals, including scoring against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last-16. Despite his limited playing time at Liverpool, Elliott was an integral part of the England U21 team that won the European Championship this summer. Liverpool reportedly do not see Elliott as part of their long-term project and are ready to sell him. Tottenham, in particular, watched him closely during the U21 Euros and, impressed by his performances, are now prepared to make a move. Spurs plan to hold talks with Elliott's representatives to understand his demands and will also contact Liverpool to enquire about the transfer details. Brown states there is "no shortage of interest" and describes Elliott as a "very talented player" who "could be an asset to any of those clubs." He confirms Newcastle and Tottenham will "test the waters" regarding a potential transfer. Elliott is valued at around £26 million by Transfermarkt and has entered the final two years of his Liverpool contract, putting the club in a strong position to demand a significant fee. He is noted for his versatility, capable of playing on the right flank, as a central attacking midfielder (CAM), or in a box-to-box midfield role.
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The Kansas City Chiefs secured offensive guard Trey Smith with a four-year, $94 million contract extension on Tuesday, ensuring he remains with the team through the 2028 season. This deal makes Smith the highest-paid guard in the NFL. His quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, expressed immediate excitement upon hearing the news, celebrating with a single emoji (😁) on social media. Smith, originally a sixth-round draft pick in 2021, has surpassed expectations to become a crucial part of the Chiefs' offensive line. He earned his first Pro Bowl selection in 2024 and has started 67 games over the past four seasons, missing only one game. The extension replaces the franchise tag placed on Smith earlier in the offseason, which would have paid him just over $23 million for one year. The Chiefs and Smith's agents successfully negotiated this new long-term agreement, providing stability for the standout player.
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Major League Soccer featured numerous highlight-worthy goals during Matchday 24. Anders Dreyer scored a beautifully constructed team goal for San Diego in their second goal against the Chicago Fire, marking his second of the match and 11th of the season overall. Charlotte forward Kerwin Vargas secured three points against NYCFC with a well-executed volley, recovering from an initial awkward touch to set himself up for the strike. Martín Ojeda delivered a precisely practiced low free-kick that split the player wall and nestled near the near post, enhancing its impressive quality. The Hell is Real derby between the Crew and Cincinnati culminated in a six-goal showdown, with the Crew winning; however, Cincinnati's Evander scored an unforgettable, powerful strike that stood out regardless of the result.
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Manchester United and manager Ruben Amorim face missing out on striker target Viktor Gyokeres, with reports indicating the Swedish international is now expected to join Arsenal. Gyokeres, 27, desires to leave Sporting CP this summer, attracting interest from both United and Arsenal. He has an £85m (€100m) release clause at Sporting, but Arsenal are reportedly close to securing a deal worth around £63.5m (€73.5m). Consequently, Manchester United must pursue alternative options. One such alternative is Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, 25, who has also been linked with AC Milan. Vlahovic's contract with Juventus expires in 2026, and the club is reportedly keen to sell him this summer. He scored 17 goals and provided 5 assists in 44 appearances last season, with Juventus open to offers as low as £20m; however, Vlahovic is reportedly negotiating for a compensation fee. United have suffered a "significant setback" in their pursuit of Vlahovic. According to reports, the Serbian striker is set to reject a move to Old Trafford and instead join AC Milan, reuniting with his former Juventus manager, Massimiliano Allegri.
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The Dallas Cowboys, facing diminished expectations after a disappointing 7-10 season in 2024 where quarterback Dak Prescott suffered a season-ending injury in Week 9, are surprisingly viewed as an under-the-radar team heading into the 2025 NFL season. Despite Prescott's expected full recovery and offseason roster upgrades, external expectations outside the organization are reportedly low. However, analyst Mike Jones labeled the Cowboys as underrated, citing Prescott's healthy return as key to improving an offense that struggled without him. Jones suggested the pairing of new receiver George Pickens with holdovers CeeDee Lamb, Jalen Tolbert, and tight end Jake Ferguson could create a potent attack if Pickens matures, making a playoff push behind Philadelphia and contending with Washington plausible. The analysis argues the Cowboys should not be overlooked. Before his injury, Prescott was performing near an MVP level. With new head coach Brian Schottenheimer, Prescott is anticipated to return to the upper echelon of quarterbacks. While acknowledging some roster weaknesses, the piece concludes the Cowboys possess enough offensive firepower to compete significantly in the NFC. The team faces a challenge in the highly competitive NFC East division, but with a healthy Prescott and a dynamic new receiver duo, Dallas is positioned as a team requiring close attention in the upcoming season.
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Terrance Ferguson, a rookie tight end for the Los Angeles Rams, married his high school sweetheart, Sophia Ferguson (maiden name Meyer), this weekend at Spruce Mountain in Larkspur, Colorado. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and former Oregon Ducks teammates, including notable athletes such as Cleveland Browns quarterback Dillon Gabriel (a close friend), Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Patrick Herbert, Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Jeffrey Bassa, and former Oregon quarterback Ty Thompson. The wedding took place on a 450-acre ranch an hour outside of Denver, reflecting the couple's strong ties to Colorado; Ferguson attended Heritage High School in Littleton, while Sophia went to a nearby school. Ferguson proposed to Sophia in July of last year during a trip to Telluride in Western Colorado, presenting her with a ring from Happy Jewelers, an Orange County-based jeweler known for working with athletes and celebrities. In an Instagram post about the proposal, Ferguson quoted Bible verses (1 Corinthians 13:4-7) emphasizing love's virtues. Dillon Gabriel shared enthusiastic praise for the wedding on Instagram, highlighting Ferguson's speeches and dance moves, and attended the rehearsal dinner the previous day with his partner, Zo Caswell. Photos from the event were shared by the bride, and Caswell's Instagram story showed the couples enjoying pool time in Denver ahead of the wedding. Professionally, Ferguson was drafted by the Rams with the No. 46 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft but has not yet signed a contract, as he and other recent draft picks seek fully guaranteed deals following examples like Jayden Higgins and Carson Schwesinger. At Oregon, Ferguson was a key player in the 2024 undefeated season, recording 43 receptions for 591 yards and three touchdowns. He is expected to be the Rams' No. 2 tight end behind veteran Tyler Higbee, with potential for increased playing time due to Higbee's injury history.
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The Los Angeles Rams nearly upset the eventual Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional playoff round last season, trailing by only six points and possessing the ball at the 13-yard line in the final two minutes. This position was remarkable given their disastrous 1-4 start earlier in the season, which led to trade rumors involving key players like Cooper Kupp and Matthew Stafford, making a playoff run seem implausible at the time. However, the Rams underwent a dramatic transformation over the final three months. Their young defense improved significantly after a rough beginning, and the offense surged as Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp returned from early injuries. A series of close wins built confidence, aided by the San Francisco 49ers' collapse. The team won their division, defeated the 14-3 Minnesota Vikings in the wild-card round at a neutral site (due to Southern California fires), and provided the Eagles with their only serious postseason challenge. Head coach Sean McVay was widely credited for orchestrating this impressive turnaround from a 1-4 start to the second playoff round. Reflecting on the season, McVay expressed gratitude and fulfillment in the difficult journey, while acknowledging the disappointment of falling just short of hosting the NFC Championship Game after such an improbable resurgence.
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The 2025/26 Premier League season commences on August 15, with Liverpool defending their title after securing a record-equalling 20th top-flight championship. The relegation battle is highlighted as a key storyline, where the three teams finishing in the bottom positions (20th to 18th) will be demoted to the Championship. Leicester, Ipswich, and Southampton were relegated in the 2024/25 season, and established Premier League clubs are now less vulnerable due to financial advantages, making promoted teams more likely to drop straight back down—a trend seen in the last two seasons where all three promoted teams were immediately relegated. This page provides up-to-date Premier League relegation odds for the 2025/26 season, sourced from recommended betting sites licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. Odds are regularly updated to reflect events and ensure readers get the best value for wagers. The promoted teams for 2025/26—Leeds United, Burnley, and Sunderland—are the current favorites for relegation. This prediction is based on the widening gap between the Premier League and Championship, which has made it increasingly difficult for newly promoted clubs to survive, as evidenced by recent seasons.
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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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ESPN conducted a poll surveying NFL executives, scouts, and coaches to rank the top 10 quarterbacks, placing Philadelphia Eagles' Jalen Hurts ninth—an improvement from last year's honorable mention. Some voters ranked him as high as sixth, while others excluded him entirely. The debate centers on whether Hurts can ascend into the top five despite concerns about his pocket-passing abilities, with comparisons drawn to Russell Wilson's career trajectory requiring strong run support. Hurts ranked below Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes (the consensus top four), Jared Goff, Justin Herbert, Matthew Stafford, and rookie Jayden Daniels. Goff and Herbert's higher placements sparked controversy given their playoff struggles, contrasting with Hurts' Super Bowl MVP credentials. Critics argue Hurts benefits from Philadelphia's elite supporting cast, including receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, a top-tier offensive line, and star running back Saquon Barkley—factors potentially limiting his ranking. Despite roster advantages, Hurts demonstrated elite capability in critical 2024 postseason games, delivering career-best performances against the Washington Commanders in the NFC Championship and the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl. His regular-season inconsistency—marked by hesitant play and fluctuating passing rhythm—reportedly hindered a higher ranking. Since becoming the Eagles' starter, Hurts maintains a 46-20 record and finished second in 2022 MVP voting behind Mahomes, underscoring his winning impact when performances peak.
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Real Betis have established clear conditions for potentially re-signing Dani Ceballos from Real Madrid. According to reports, the La Liga club would only consider the transfer if Real Madrid agrees to release the midfielder on a free transfer. Additionally, Betis would require Ceballos to accept a significant pay cut of nearly 50% to align with their existing wage structure. Ceballos, a product of Betis's youth system, has publicly stated his desire to return to his boyhood club. He has found playing time limited under manager Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid and is eager to revive his career in Seville. However, Betis are determined to avoid creating unrealistic expectations, as they have in past transfer windows, and their board has been direct about not engaging in complex negotiations or making financial sacrifices that could disrupt their plans. Currently, signing Ceballos is not a top priority for Betis. The club's sporting directors are primarily focused on finding replacements for midfielders William Carvalho and Johnny Cardoso, both of whom are expected to depart soon. While these exits will free up squad space and reduce the wage bill, Betis intend to maintain a simple and realistic transfer strategy. Dani Ceballos remains under contract with Real Madrid until 2027. Although he has openly expressed his dream of returning to Betis, the final outcome of any potential move depends on factors beyond his personal wishes, including the agreement between the clubs and the financial terms.
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Inter Miami climbs to the top spot in the ESPN MLS Power Rankings after Lionel Messi scored both goals in a 2-1 win against Nashville SC. This marks Messi's fifth consecutive MLS game with a brace, setting a new league record. Miami is on a five-game winning streak and has three games in hand. Philadelphia Union moves up to second place. They solidified their position at the top of the Eastern Conference and Supporters' Shield standings by easily defeating the eighth-place New York Red Bulls 2-0. Nashville SC drops to third after their 15-game unbeaten run ended with the 2-1 loss to Inter Miami. While Messi's performance was key, a second-half gaffe by goalkeeper Joe Willis, passing directly to Messi, led to Miami's winning goal. San Diego FC rises to fourth following a 2-1 victory over Chicago Fire, powered by a brace from Anders Dreyer. Dreyer now leads the league in combined goals and assists (11 goals, 13 assists) and trails only Messi in goals and assists per 90 minutes, making him a strong MVP contender. Columbus Crew jumps to fifth after a remarkable comeback in the Hell is Real derby against FC Cincinnati. Despite falling behind 2-0 within the first five minutes, goals from Diego Rossi and Max Arfsten leveled the score by halftime. The Crew then scored twice more in the second half to win 4-2. FC Cincinnati falls to sixth after their derby collapse against Columbus. Despite scoring twice in the opening five minutes, they conceded four goals (including a Miles Robinson own goal) to lose 4-2. Despite the humbling loss, they remain third in the Supporters' Shield standings.
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Chelsea's emphatic 3-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup final has significantly heightened expectations surrounding the club. This success has prompted questions about whether the team can now challenge for the Premier League title next season. Premier League legend Alan Shearer has weighed in on this question, strongly backing Chelsea's title credentials for the upcoming campaign. The former Newcastle and Blackburn star believes Enzo Maresca's squad possesses the necessary qualities to contend for the Premier League crown, citing their dominant Club World Cup triumph as evidence. Speaking on 'The Rest Is Football', Shearer stated it would take "a very, very brave person" to exclude Chelsea from next season's title race. He justified this view by pointing to their achievements this season, their recent Club World Cup success, the players they have already signed, and the players they are expected to sign. Shearer concluded that Chelsea "will be involved in the title race." The summary notes that Chelsea finished fourth in the league last season, 15 points behind champions Liverpool. It highlights the added pressure the team will face next term and questions how they will respond to these heightened expectations.
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Juventus and Smart Good Things Holding have launched a new collaboration, introducing the J Pay by Smart Wallet app. This innovative payment method, developed by Smart Good Things Holding, is designed to protect and enhance users' purchasing power. The 100% free solution will be available starting July 15th, initially for French fans and subsequently for Italian users. Adopting J Pay by Smart Wallet automatically creates a personal wallet for users. This wallet, set to be fully operational by year-end, will provide access to services and benefits aimed at sustainably boosting purchasing power for both the user and others. The app functions by growing the wallet balance with each everyday purchase transaction. Users can then choose how to utilize this balance: to purchase services or enjoy various benefits for themselves and loved ones. Juventus CEO Maurizio Scanavino expressed pleasure with the partnership, stating it confirms the club's commitment to innovation and aligns with their desire to be at the forefront. Serge Bueno, Chairman and CEO of Smart Good Things Holding, emphasized that the partnership demonstrates protective economics can extend to sport, reaching millions globally, with J Pay symbolizing this vision. Tony Parker, Deputy CEO of Smart Good Things Holding, added that the project transcends football, uniting a community around shared values and common solutions to improve everyday life.
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Everton have inquired about RC Lens midfielder Neil El Aynaoui during the summer transfer window, introducing competition despite Roma's reported agreement with the player. El Aynaoui, who scored eight goals in 24 Ligue 1 appearances last season, has a contract with Lens until 2027, and the club demands at least €30 million (£25.9 million) for his transfer. Lens manager Pierre Sage emphasized their firm stance by stating El Aynaoui wouldn't have played in a recent match if a departure were imminent. David Moyes seeks to bolster Everton's midfield, as Idrissa Gueye's new one-year deal leaves long-term questions at age 35, while James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam require creative support. El Aynaoui's box-to-box dynamism and goal threat align with Everton's needs. Additionally, Everton are exploring a move for Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz, a former Aston Villa player with Premier League experience. Although Everton and Roma share ownership under the Friedkin Group, both maintain independent recruitment strategies. Roma have yet to finalize a decision between El Aynaoui and Palmeiras' Richard Rios, creating an opportunity for Everton. If Roma prioritize Rios, Everton could lead the pursuit of El Aynaoui, though Crystal Palace's interest may escalate the transfer fee. With weeks remaining in the window, Everton's immediate focus remains midfield reinforcement, though a right-winger is also on Moyes' list. The club's ambition is evident, with potential bids for El Aynaoui or Luiz expected soon.
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In just 250 days, Aurélien Tchouaméni has undergone a remarkable transformation from a jeered player to a vital tactical piece for Xabi Alonso. On November 5, 2024, he endured a nightmare performance for Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu, being booed off the pitch at halftime after costly mistakes against Milan. This marked a low point, with intense criticism following him for weeks. The turning point arrived on January 16 in a Copa del Rey match against Celta. Despite whistles when his name was announced, Tchouaméni delivered an outstanding performance, signaling the start of his resurgence. His recovery began step by step from this point onward. Today, Tchouaméni is indispensable in Xabi Alonso's system. He operates as a pivot and a third center-back alongside Huijsen, a complex and demanding role that allows Alonso to implement a three-center-back formation. Tchouaméni has excelled, becoming a "compass" for the team and consistently performing well, even standing out during difficult team performances like the loss to PSG, where he led in passes completed (36) and was second in ball recoveries (5). His pass accuracy in this role is nearly 98%. Within the club, Tchouaméni is now viewed as irreplaceable due to a lack of natural backup. Güler is learning the number 6 role, Valverde has filled in unconvincingly, and Camavinga appears better suited to an interior position than Tchouaméni's specific pivot/third center-back role. The club's failure to sign Zubimendi further underscores Tchouaméni's essential status. This dramatic shift, from being a targeted player seemingly at rock bottom 250 days ago to becoming an undisputed starter and tactical cornerstone, highlights his extraordinary turnaround.
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The Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen and general manager Chris Ballard are under significant pressure entering the season. Their Week 4 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams could be critical, potentially becoming a "win or be fired" situation. The Colts face a challenging start, playing the Dolphins, Broncos, and Titans in the first three weeks. There's a real possibility they could be 0-3 entering the Rams game. A loss to the Rams might prompt new owners Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson to initiate a full-scale rebuild. Conversely, desperation could lead the Colts to win early games, setting up a crucial test against the Rams. Optimism exists that the Colts could contend for the division title by relying on running back Jonathan Taylor and a significantly improved defense. Key defensive additions include cornerback Charvarius Ward and safety Camryn Bynum. The hiring of defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, credited with developing strong Bengals defenses, is expected to benefit the team. Consistent, turnover-free play from either quarterback Anthony Richardson or Daniel Jones could be enough for the Colts to rise in the standings. The Rams' offense will be tested by this formidable Colts defense, built by Anarumo (who developed Trey Hendrickson) and featuring rookie Laiatu Latu, along with established stars DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart. Furthermore, the Colts bolstered their secondary. For the Rams, this game serves as a key evaluation of their offseason improvements against the run. The Colts are expected to heavily utilize Jonathan Taylor, providing a clear assessment of the Rams' run defense depth and their newly formed linebacker group.
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The Houston Texans' decision to fully guarantee second-round receiver Jayden Higgins' contract has created division among NFL teams and their unsigned second-round draft picks. Only two of this year's 32 second-round selections—Higgins and Cleveland Browns' Carson Schwesinger—have finalized contracts so far. This split is intensifying as the Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Chargers, who will play in the Hall of Fame Game, begin early training camp. Chargers receiver Tre Harris is officially holding out from camp, while a Lions offensive lineman is expected to follow suit when rookies report. The Los Angeles Rams situation highlights the broader issue: though most Rams rookies signed contracts on May 10, second-round tight end Terrance Ferguson remains unsigned despite fourth-round pick Jarquez Hunter finalizing his deal in late May. With 30 second-round picks still unsigned league-wide and two already holding out, Ferguson risks missing the start of Rams practices. Ferguson's potential absence could significantly impact his development, as the tight end position has a steep learning curve. Any delayed start might reduce his opportunities to earn offensive playing time. This developing situation warrants close attention ahead of the Rams' July 22 training camp report date.
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Arsenal are planning for Chelsea forward Noni Madueke to potentially join their pre-season training camp in La Manga, Spain, depending on the timing of his transfer completion. This would require a quick turnaround for the 23-year-old, who recently participated in the Club World Cup with Chelsea, and it remains to be seen how Arsenal manage his condition upon arrival. Madueke is considered a significant, costly signing for the Gunners. Arsenal's transfer activity extends beyond Madueke. They are seriously interested in signing Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze. Manager Mikel Arteta views Eze as a versatile talent capable of operating on the left wing and across other attacking positions. According to reports, Arsenal are now ready to open negotiations with Palace for Eze, who has a £68m release clause this summer. Palace were previously open to accepting installment payments for Eze during talks with Tottenham Hotspur, though Spurs ultimately pursued other targets. Bukayo Saka publicly praised Eze's quality almost a year ago during England training, calling him "class" and stating he had been the most impressive player. Saka and Eze have since played together seven times for England, including at Euro 2024. Furthermore, Arsenal are actively pushing to sign striker Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP. The club emphasizes that pursuing deals for Gyokeres or Madueke will not affect their interest in securing Eze. In addition to Madueke and a new striker (potentially Gyokeres), Eze remains a key target.
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The weather forecast indicates light rain early followed by decreasing clouds overnight, with a low temperature of 67 degrees Fahrenheit. Winds are expected to be light and variable, with an 80% chance of rain. This forecast was updated on July 12, 2025, at 7:26 pm. In sports news, Peru's women's national soccer team posed for a group photo prior to their Copa America match against Chile in Quito, Ecuador, on Saturday, July 12, 2025. An obituary reports the passing of an individual from Bluefield, West Virginia, on July 9, 2025. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, July 15, at the Mercer Funeral Home Chapel. Friends may gather starting at 1 p.m. A private interment will follow at Maple Hill Cemetery in Bluefield, Virginia. The news section notes there are no recent popular videos or recently commented articles available for readers. Readers are invited to sign up to receive breaking news coverage delivered directly to their inbox.
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At least one MLS club, reported to be Los Angeles FC, has expressed interest in signing Borussia Dortmund midfielder Giovanni Reyna. Dortmund is struggling to find a buyer for the 22-year-old American, whose market value has significantly declined to €7 million following another disappointing Bundesliga season. Reyna's career, once highly promising with a peak value of €42 million and dubbed "The American Dream," has suffered due to persistent injuries and concerns about his work ethic for both club and country. During the last season, Reyna managed only three Bundesliga starts and three Champions League starts for Dortmund. He made 25 appearances across all competitions, contributing two goals and one assist, and was generally fit to play. Reyna is entering the final year of his Dortmund contract, which he extended shortly before being loaned to Nottingham Forest in January 2024. This six-month Premier League loan proved unsuccessful. Previous links to a move to Spanish side Real Sociedad have reportedly cooled, with interest from the La Liga club drying up. His recent involvement includes earning one cap for the USMNT this year in the CONCACAF Nations League third-place playoff and making one brief 12-minute substitute appearance for Dortmund at the recent Club World Cup.
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Real Madrid have decided against bringing midfielder Nico Paz back from Como this summer, despite previously triggering an €8 million buy-back clause that has since expired. Manager Xabi Alonso, focused on defensive reinforcements and adhering to squad limits, has opted not to pursue alternative agreements for Paz at this time. Paz was sold to Como for €6 million last summer under Carlo Ancelotti, with Real Madrid securing three future buy-back options (for 2025, 2026, and 2027). The first €8m option was activated earlier this summer but lapsed, and Alonso has now ruled out an immediate return. The situation will be re-evaluated in 2026, contingent on Paz maintaining his performance level in Serie A. He enjoyed a strong debut season under manager Cesc Fabregas, playing a key role in Como's promotion and subsequent 10th-place finish in Serie A. Paz contributed 6 league goals and 8 assists during the 2023/24 campaign. A similar performance level in the 2025/26 season will keep Paz under consideration at Real Madrid, even as Alonso plans to give opportunities to Arda Guler.
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The Los Angeles Rams' running back room for 2025 appears well-stocked with three young prospects: Kyren Williams (ranked 85th best player by peers), rookie Jarquez Hunter (noted for big plays in college), and Blake Corum. Blake Corum, drafted in the Top 100 last year, saw limited action (119 offensive reps) before breaking his arm early in the season finale. His rookie season stats included 207 rushing yards on 58 carries (3.6 YPC), 7 catches for 58 yards, and 186 kickoff return yards, with no touchdowns. Corum is described as a natural runner with good feel for the game. At just under 5'8" and 205 lbs (he prefers 210 lbs), he possesses quick darting moves, jump cuts, lateral agility, burst, balance, and change of direction skills, reflected in strong Combine times (3cone: 6.82, shuttle: 4.12). While his long speed (4.53) and 10-yard split (1.58) are solid but not outstanding, film suggests he accelerates quickly (reaching 21.1 mph in 4 seconds). He is not a scat back or a true power back, despite a powerfully built, compact frame (like a "fire hydrant") and exceptional strength (27 bench press reps). His low center of gravity and leg drive make him difficult to tackle without a full wrap-up. Corum excels at pressing the line of scrimmage with exceptional vision to identify holes and read blocks. He hits creases decisively but also shows patience and nimbleness, waiting for blocks to set up before exploding tightly off them, particularly gaining extra yards at the second level. While draft previews questioned his receiving ability due to limited use at Michigan, his film shows good hands, quick transition from run to catch, and reliability on check downs. Improvement is possible, but the Rams' offense doesn't require extensive route running from backs. The Rams, under GM Snead and Coach McVay, have consistently drafted running backs with mixed results. While Kyren Williams (Round 5) is a success, Cam Akers (Rd2) and Darrell Henderson (Rd3) underperformed relative to draft position. Later picks like Zach Evans, Jake Funk, John Kelly, and Sam Rogers did not pan out. Drafting Hunter (Rd3 #90) and Corum (Rd3 #83) in consecutive years mirrors the Henderson/Akers selections in 2019/2020. Overall, the Rams enter 2025 with a running back group flush with potential.
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