أكد محمود الخطيب، رئيس النادي الأهلي، أنه اتخذ قراره بخوض انتخابات النادي واستكمال مهمته، رغم ظروفه الصحية التي دفعته للتفكير أكثر من مرة في الابتعاد عن العمل العام، مشيرًا إلى أن القرار جاء استجابةً لرغبة منظومة النادي وجماهيره في استمرار المسيرة وتحقيق المزيد من الإنجازات.

وخلال الندوة التي عقدتها قائمته الانتخابية بفرع الشيخ زايد، كشف الخطيب عن أن الفريق الطبي المعالج له طالبه بالحصول على راحة تامة والابتعاد عن الضغوط، وهو ما دفعه في البداية لاتخاذ قرار بعدم الاستمرار، وإبلاغ مجلس الإدارة بهذا القرار، قبل أن يتراجع عنه استجابةً لإجماع داخل النادي من أعضاء المجلس ومسؤولي الشركات والجماهير.

طالع| خاص | خلال الكشف الطبي.. الأهلي يخسر صفقة هامة بسبب توقيعه لنادي آخر

وقال محمود الخطيب: «أُقدّر كثيرًا كل من طالبني بالاستمرار، سواء من داخل النادي أو من جماهيره، والذين رفعوا لافتات تطالبني بعدم الابتعاد، وهو ما أشعرني بالمسؤولية أكثر تجاه الكيان، لذلك قررت أن أواصل المشوار بطريقة تتيح لي في الوقت نفسه متابعة ظروفي الصحية».

وأضاف: «سيتم توزيع الملفات داخل المجلس الجديد، وسأتغيب لفترات محددة بناءً على توصيات الأطباء، وثقتي كبيرة في كل أعضاء القائمة، فكل واحد منهم يمثل إضافة حقيقية للنادي الأهلي وأعضائه وجماهيره، والهدف هو مواصلة العمل من أجل بقاء الأهلي في موقع الريادة على كل المستويات».

وأشار رئيس النادي إلى أنه من حق الجمعية العمومية أن تتعرف على ما تحقق من إنجازات خلال السنوات الماضية، وما يجري العمل عليه ضمن خطة التطوير المستقبلية، مؤكدًا أن رؤية المجلس ترتكز على الحفاظ على تاريخ النادي ومبادئه، وتطوير أصوله وموارده ليتقدم بخطى ثابتة نحو العالمية.

وتابع: «منذ عام 2017 وضعنا رؤية واضحة بأن الأهلي هو مبادئ وتاريخ وتطوير، وهذه المحددات كانت منهجًا للعمل في كل الملفات الرياضية والخدمية والإنشائية. وقد احتاج الأمر إلى إدارة محترفة واستثمار حقيقي وابتكار في الموارد المالية لتمويل المشاريع وتطوير الخدمات، وهو ما تحقق بجهود الجميع».

وشدد الخطيب على أن الأهلي ملك لكل من ينتمي له ويخلص له من أعضاء وجماهير، وهو ما يمثل أحد أسرار نجاح النادي عبر تاريخه الطويل، مضيفًا أن دورتي مجلس الإدارة 2017-2021 و2021-2025 شهدتا جهودًا كبيرة من أبناء النادي المخلصين الذين قدموا كل ما لديهم من أجل الكيان.

وحرص الخطيب على الإشادة بالراحل العامري فاروق، نائب رئيس النادي السابق، مؤكدًا أن تاريخه وما قدمه من عطاء سيبقى خالدًا في ذاكرة النادي.

وأشار رئيس الأهلي إلى أن مجلس الإدارة عمل على صياغة لائحة النظام الأساسي عبر حوار مجتمعي موسع، شارك فيه ممثلو مختلف فئات المجتمع، وأسفر عن «دستور الأهلي» الذي يحمي النادي ويحدد طريقه نحو المستقبل.

وواصل: الأهلي تاريخ ومبادئ وتطوير، تاريخ عظيم في زيادة ومبادئ وقيم متمسك بها، الأهلي ليس نادي كرة، الأهلي له دور في المجتمع، وملك جمهوره وأعضائه وكل إنسان مخلص للكيان.

Virat Kohli believes India have a squad “ready to take on the world” for the next eight years, following their victory in the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in Dubai.”When you leave, you want to leave the team in a better place, I feel we’ve a squad that’s ready to take on the world for the next eight years,” Kohli said on the broadcast after the game. “Shubman [Gill] has been outstanding, Shreyas [Iyer] beautiful, KL [Rahul] has finished games, and Hardik [Pandya] has been superb with the bat.”Kohli said the Champions Trophy triumph somewhat made up for India’s Test series loss in Australia. “It’s been amazing. We wanted to bounce back after a tough Australian tour, and wanted to win a big tournament, and we ended up doing that. So it’s an amazing feeling.”Related

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Standing beside Gill during the celebrations, Kohli was asked for his thoughts on leaving the dressing room a better place when he eventually finishes up. “There’s so much talent in the dressing room,” he said. “They’re trying to take their game further and we [seniors] are just happy to be of help, sharing our experience and that’s what makes this Indian team so strong.”These are the things you want to play for [titles], playing under pressure and putting your hand up. The whole team, everyone has put their hands up sometimes or other during the course of the tournament. Everyone has put up impactful performances, we’ve been part of an amazing team, the amount of work we’ve done in the practice sessions, it feels great.”Kohli had words of appreciation for New Zealand. “Amazing, we’ve always been in awe with what they can do with the limited number of players they have had over the years, and just maximise their talent,” he said. “Every time we played against them in big games, we knew they were going to come with a set plan. No team in world cricket executes plans as well as they do.”Every fielder knows where the bowler is going to bowl, you can sense it, they’re all attacking the ball, they know the bowler is going to be accurate. Credit to them for being the most consistent team in the last few tournaments. The reason for that is the immense belief in their skills, and the amount of talent they have they utilise that to the maximum.”They’re easily the best fielding side in the world, a huge shout-out to them. They continue to display why they are one of the top teams in the world. Again, a great campaign. It’s sad to see a very good friend [Kane Williamson] on the losing side, but I’ve been on the losing side a couple of times when he has been on the winning side, so only love between us.”

The visitors eased to their target on the final morning after a dominant display over the game

AAP09-Mar-2025

Queensland revived their Sheffield Shield hopes with a thumping nine-wicket win against Tasmania.Set just 81 runs to win, they cruised to 82 for 1 on the final day at Bellerive Oval in Hobart. Test stalwart Usman Khawaja (33 not out) and Jack Clayton (34no) were untroubled in peeling off the last 56 runs to win on Sunday.The result ended Tasmania’s hopes of reaching the Shield final, leaving them last on the table with just one match to come – against New South Wales.Queensland are still alive and kicking, and will finish the round as high as second or as low as fourth. Even if they drop to fourth, they still have a chance to reach the final if they can beat ladder leaders South Australia in the final round.Khawaja helped set up Queensland’s big win over Tasmania by scoring 127 Tasmania were rolled for 161 in reply, with man-of-the-match Michael Neser snaring 6 for 37.Tasmania were forced to follow-on, and although their second-innings total of 345 was much better, the 82-run victory target wasn’t nearly enough to pose Queensland any problems.”Maximising that new ball [was the key], that new ball nipped around a bit,” Neser said. “And then it went dead and it was a lovely batting wicket.”It was a no-brainer to [enforce the] follow on. That wicket was getting flatter. The way Uzzie batted was superb. He set the game up for us.”Queensland’s win over Tasmania was a perfect response from their recent flop at the WACA, where they were thumped by an innings and 12 runs by Western Australia.”We have a massive game in Adelaide now. It’s going to be tough there,” Neser said. “We know it can be flat at times, so spin will be a huge factor for us. Going in with a win is massive for us, so hopefully we can carry that momentum through.”Tasmania opener Jake Weatherald rued his team’s poor batting display.”If we had got [a lead of] 200, 230, we would have been a good chance,” Weatherald said. “We’re just not batting or bowling well enough. Michael Neser was just too classy. He bowled very well throughout this game in good batting conditions.”

Ipswich Town have had a torrid start to life in the Championship following last season’s Premier League relegation. Kieran McKenna’s side currently sit 18th in the Championship and were knocked out of the first round of the League Cup following the loss of a number of star players.

Omari Hutchinson and Liam Delap both secured their Premier League futures with moves to Nottingham Forest and Chelsea, respectively. So far this window, Ipswich have actually made a profit of over £50 million.

They have brought in some players such as Kasey McAteer and Azor Matusiwa on permanent deals, Ashley Young on a free transfer and Chuba Akpom on loan. However, these signings are yet to bring McKenna’s side a win.

While there is still time left in the transfer window, Ipswich are pushing to bring in another signing to help reinforce them defensively.

Ipswich close to finalising Furlong

Ipswich Town are close to signing a deal with West Bromwich Albion for Darnell Furlong. The deal for the defender will initially cost the Tractor Boys £3.5 million.

The agreement also includes a unique clause that means Ipswich will be required to pay West Brom a further £500,000 if they secure promotion. However, given their start to the season, this clause currently looks unlikely to be achieved. West Brom are set to make an impressive profit on Furlong as he only cost them just over £1.4 million when he joined from QPR back in 2019.

Ipswich have recently worked with Furlongs agency, New Era Global Sports Management Limited, as they represent Corbin Mthunzi, who joined their academy from Brighton in April.

"One of the best full-backs of the Championship"

With Furlong, Ipswich will have a capable defender on their hands who ranked highly among his peers in the second tier last season. In the 2024/25 campaign, Furlong ranked in the top 3% of players for both aerial duels and ground duels won.

A unique area in which Furlong shines is winning fouls. Furlong won 72 free kicks last season, putting him in the top 3% of similar players. These fouls were often won in his own defensive third and are the result of his nous when dealing with pressing opposition players.

These achievements are part of the reason that Furlong has left positive impressions on coaches he’s worked with in the past. Valencia boss Carlos Corberen, who managed Furlong for two years as West Brom boss, was full of praise for the full-back when he was his manager:

Based on these defensive stats and his former manager’s praise for him, Ipswich might be about to recruit the catalyst that can kick-start their season and get them climbing up the table.

It was a mixed transfer window at West Ham United in the end, but things could have been so much different had they signed the attacking target that they set their sights on.

West Ham's transfer window in review

To say it was a slow start for the Hammers would be an understatement. It looked as though they were going to stand still entirely at one stage, opting to welcome just Callum Wilson and El Hadji Malick Diouf, until they finally returned to the transfer market late on and signed the likes of Mateus Fernandes.

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It could be that late flurry that sparks a much-needed turnaround under Graham Potter. Before their 3-0 victory against Nottingham Forest before the international break, the Hammers had lost all three of their first games, and had conceded 11 goals in the process. Pressure, as a result, was increasing on Potter.

The former Brighton manager would have breathed a greater sight of relief than anyone else involved at the City Ground, but West Ham must now kick on when they return to action.

Only time will tell whether late deals for Fernandes, Igor Julio and Soungoutou Magassa are enough to turn things around permanently at West Ham and save their transfer window, but Potter can no longer say that he wasn’t backed.

Up next for the Hammers after the international break is the visit of Tottenham Hotspur in a London derby. The Lilywhites have looked much-improved under Thomas Frank, although West Ham are no strangers to defeating their rivals and will be hoping to pick up where they left off against Forest.

It is, of course, the type of game that Aleksandar Mitrovic would have thrived in, but West Ham can thank one reason why he’s not lining up for Potter’s side after the summer transfer window.

West Ham made late Mitrovic offer

As reported by The Boot Room’s Graeme Bailey, West Ham made a late offer to sign Mitrovic after he was granted an exit from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. Alongside Leeds United, the Hammers were pushing to welcome the forward back to the Premier League to solve their attacking problems.

Ultimately, however, he opted against returning to English football as he didn’t want to tarnish the relationship that he has with Fulham, having spent five years at the West London club.

Once dubbed “outstanding” by Fulham boss Marco Silva, there’s no doubt that Mitrovic would have been an instant upgrade on West Ham’s current options.

يشهد اليوم السبت 18-10-2025، مواجهات نارية على المستويين المحلي والقاري والعالمي، إذ تتجه الأنظار إلى انطلاق مشوار الأهلي والزمالك في البطولات الإفريقية، بينما يخوض بيراميدز أول نهائي سوبر إفريقي في تاريخه أمام نهضة بركان المغربي، في واحدة من أبرز مواجهات اليوم.

على الصعيد الإفريقي، يلتقي الأهلي مع إيجل نوار البوروندي ضمن ذهاب دور الـ32 من دوري أبطال إفريقيا، في مواجهة تُقام على استاد “إنواري” بمدينة بوجومبورا، حيث يسعى المارد الأحمر لقطع خطوة مهمة نحو التأهل لدور المجموعات.

أما الزمالك، فيبدأ مشواره القاري بمواجهة ديكاداها الصومالي في ذهاب دور الـ32 من بطولة كأس الكونفدرالية الإفريقية، تحت قيادة مدربه البلجيكي يانيك فيريرا الذي يبحث عن عودة قوية للفريق بعد تراجع نتائجه في الدوري المحلي.

وفي بطولة كأس السوبر الإفريقي، يخوض بيراميدز مواجهة تاريخية أمام نهضة بركان المغربي على استاد الدفاع الجوي، في أول ظهور للفريق السماوي في السوبر بعد تتويجه بلقب دوري أبطال إفريقيا الموسم الماضي، بينما يشارك الفريق المغربي بصفته بطل الكونفدرالية.

وفي أوروبا، تتواصل المتعة الكروية بمواجهات نارية في الدوريات الكبرى، أبرزها قمة مانشستر سيتي وإيفرتون في الجولة الثامنة من الدوري الإنجليزي الممتاز، حيث يسعى بيب جوارديولا لاستعادة نغمة الانتصارات وملاحقة صدارة البريميرليج.

وفي إسبانيا، يواجه برشلونة بقيادة هانز فليك نظيره جيرونا على ملعب “مونتجويك” ضمن الجولة التاسعة من الليجا، في لقاء يسعى فيه الفريق الكتالوني لمصالحة جماهيره بعد خسارتين متتاليتين أمام باريس سان جيرمان وإشبيلية.

طالع أيضًا | لاعب إيجل نوار يعترف لـ “بطولات”: أشعر بالخوف وسأحقق حلمي أمام الأهلي مواعيد مباريات اليوم السبت 18-10-2025 والقنوات الناقلةمواعيد مباريات دوري أبطال إفريقيا اليوم

إيجل نوار ضد الأهلي، الساعة 4 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة ON Sport 1. موعد نهائي كأس السوبر الإفريقي اليوم

بيراميدز ضد نهضة بركان، الساعة 8 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS 2 HD وTime Sport (بث أرضي). مواعيد مباريات كأس الكونفدرالية الإفريقية اليوم

ديكداها ضد الزمالك، الساعة 7 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة ON Sport 1. مواعيد مباريات الدوري المصري اليوم

الجونة ضد البنك الأهلي، الساعة 5 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة ON Sport 2.

الإسماعيلي ضد حرس الحدود، الساعة 8 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة ON Sport 2. مواعيد مباريات الدوري الإنجليزي اليوم

نوتينجهام فورست ضد تشيلسي، الساعة 2:30 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS 1 HD.

مانشستر سيتي ضد إيفرتون، الساعة 5 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS 2 HD.

سندرلاند ضد وولفرهامبتون، الساعة 5 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS 3 HD.

كريستال بالاس ضد بورنموث، الساعة 5 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS 4 HD.

بيرنلي ضد ليدز يونايتد، الساعة 5 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS 5 HD.

برايتون ضد نيوكاسل، الساعة 5 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS 6 HD.

فولهام ضد آرسنال، الساعة 7:30 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS 1 HD. مواعيد مباريات الدوري الإسباني اليوم

إشبيلية ضد مايوركا، الساعة 3 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS 9 HD.

برشلونة ضد جيرونا، الساعة 5:15 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS 1 HD.

فياريال ضد ريال بيتيس، الساعة 7:30 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS 3 HD.

أتلتيكو مدريد ضد أوساسونا، الساعة 10 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS 3 HD. مواعيد مباريات الدوري الإيطالي اليوم

ليتشي ضد ساسولو، الساعة 4 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة الرابعة 1 وSTARZPLAY.

بيزا ضد فيرونا، الساعة 4 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة STARZPLAY.

تورينو ضد نابولي، الساعة 7 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة STARZPLAY.

روما ضد إنتر ميلان، الساعة 9:45 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة STARZPLAY. مواعيد مباريات الدوري الألماني اليوم

كولن ضد أوجسبورج، الساعة 4:30 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر منصة شاهد.

هايدنهايم ضد فيردر بريمن، الساعة 4:30 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر منصة شاهد.

ماينتس ضد باير ليفركوزن، الساعة 4:30 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر منصة شاهد.

لايبزيج ضد هامبورج، الساعة 4:30 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر منصة شاهد.

فولفسبورج ضد شتوتجارت، الساعة 4:30 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر منصة شاهد.

بايرن ميونخ ضد بوروسيا دورتموند، الساعة 7:30 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة MBC Action ومنصة شاهد. مواعيد مباريات الدوري الفرنسي اليوم

نيس ضد ليون، الساعة 6 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS 9 HD.

أنجيه ضد موناكو، الساعة 8 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS 5 HD.

مارسيليا ضد لوهافر، الساعة 10:05 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS 4 HD. مواعيد مباريات الدوري السعودي اليوم

الاتفاق ضد الهلال، الساعة 5:45 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة “ثمانية 1”.

الخلود ضد النجمة، الساعة 6:10 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة “ثمانية 2”.

الأهلي ضد الشباب، الساعة 9 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة “ثمانية 1”. مواعيد مباريات كأس العالم تحت 20 عامًا اليوم

كولومبيا ضد فرنسا، الساعة 10 مساءً بتوقيت مصر والسعودية، وتُذاع عبر قناة beIN SPORTS HD.

ويُمكنكم متابعة أحداث مباريات اليوم لحظة بلحظة من مركز المباريات من هنـــا

In the end, Xabi Alonso had just one word for Real Madrid's 5-2 loss to Atletico Madrid on Saturday: "bad". Well, duh!

Los Blancos had enjoyed an undefeated start to the season and, heading into the first Madrid derby of the year, seemed well-equipped to make something happen – perhaps even continue that run. Atleti were an unpredictable shambles of a side, a summer spending spree leading to mid-table irrelevance (albeit in a small sample size). Madrid were in fine form. Kylian Mbappe was scoring for fun. Arda Guler looked a wonderful fit under Alonso. All of the pieces were in place here. 

That prediction aged like milk. Madrid were woeful against their crosstown rivals, a self-inflicted mess of disastrous defending and lack of effort in central areas, leading to a comprehensive 5-2 defeat. And in truth, it really could have been more. 

It all leaves Madrid searching for answers a bit. They have leaned heavily on Mbappe thus far, but also looked really rather good as a unit. However, as soon as they faced a team that likes to disrupt, they crumbled. And that's the bigger worry. Madrid derbies are testy things, full of hard tackles and fierce individual duels. 

And under real pressure for the first time this season, Los Blancos collapsed, meaning Alonso has had his rude awakening at Real. Now the new boss has to figure out how to react, maybe even rebuild, and prepare for more stern challenges that lie ahead. This job is never easy. But Alonso now knows just how hard it can be. 

Getty Images SportEarly warning signs

Some will tell you that they could have seen this coming. Madrid's first real test under Alonso, arguably, came earlier this summer. Whether Madrid truly to win the Club World Cup is up for debate. But they certainly approached the transfer window like they wanted to. 

A glut of new arrivals showed up in America for the tournament, and Alonso was the man tasked with piecing them all together – despite having less than two weeks as actual manager of the club.

They looked beleaguered in the group stage, and when it came down to the big names, they were miles off the pace. Madrid were battered by somehow-not-champions PSG in the semi-final, and, in truth, never appeared remotely capable of turning that result around. Alonso claimed after the game that the loss was the final match of the previous season, and by no means an indication as to how things might look going forward.

"At the moment, we need a proper break. This is not the beginning of next year, this is just the end of this season," he said after the defeat.

And there's some sense to that. Los Blancos endured a disastrous 2024-25 campaign. The Club World Cup felt like a bit of a wash. Sure, the loss stung, but it was perhaps a chance to refresh – not an indictment on the strength of the side. Well, so much for that idea…

AdvertisementAFPGetting the XI wrong

Atleti are not as good as PSG, but they certainly exposed the same weaknesses in Madrid's team. 

The first, and most obvious problem that Alonso will repeatedly face here is the lack of balance in the side. For the first time this season, the manager started Mbappe, Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham together. It's a dangerous thing, trying to get all three into the same side. Say what you want about tactical adjustments and positional play, one fact is simple: the trio don't quite click together on either side of the ball.

Yes, there were some moments of individual magic, but when Los Blancos lost the ball, the results were calamitous. It was laughably easy to see how Atletico might attack. Mbappe doesn't like to run. Vinicius and Bellingham don't either. As soon as Los Rojiblancos counter, they are playing against eight, taking on a remarkably disorganised unit immediately. And although set-pieces proved to be their ultimate undoing, all of the moves started from direct vertical counters. 

It was a familiar story, the way Madrid have been attacked by opponents for 12 months now. Alonso simply fell into the same trap as his predecessor Carlo Ancelotti in the Italian's final year at the Santiago Bernabeu.

GettyLeaning on Mbappe

And that won't be easy to counter. In all likelihood, one of Bellingham or Vinicius will need to be benched – especially in the big games. Madrid's remedy to that – or, at least, their method for picking up results – is to lean on their stars. And in Mbappe, they have arguably the best forward in the world. 

The Frenchman has been in electric form to start the campaign. Alonso seems to have won him over somehow, encouraging him to play in a more central role, and simply getting better consistent showings out of the team's talisman. Against the lesser sides, that helped paper over some cracks. Madrid haven't been excellent to start the season, but Mbappe's penchant for finding the net has ensured that some of the shortcomings – and there are a fair few – haven't proven fatal. 

However, against a far more organised Atleti, he couldn't play hero-ball. Sure, he scored a wonderful goal – a clinical dart in behind and finish. But that alone could not save a Madrid team that actively struggled. 

Mbappe's reluctance to defend was also illustrated. Ancelotti, the great vibes guy who was able to lay down the law in a dressing room full of egos, could never solve that conundrum in the big games. Thus far, Alonso hasn't, either. That goal was lovely for the highlight reel. Substantively, though, it meant little.

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Getty Images SportA midfield imbalance

The midfield could also do with some scrutiny here. Thus far, Alonso has stuck with a familiar formula: a trio of Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, and one other (usually Arda Guler as a No.10). It has worked well enough. But against Atleti, who simply packed the middle of the pitch, it was underwhelming. 

There are a number of reasons why. A lot of them surround a certain Englishman who was regarded as a Ballon d'Or candidate not 12 months ago. 

Bellingham isn't lazy per se. But his work rate isn't excellent, either. He doesn't quite seem to know how to defend as a No.10. When the attackers don't press, Bellingham never knows when to run forward or drop deep. The result is a bit of lethargy, half-committed to defending. It leaves Madrid wide open. 

Furthermore, for all of his undoubted talent, Bellingham clearly doesn't like it when things don't go his way. Too often, he throws his arms in the air in frustration, or doesn't track back at all. Atleti took advantage of that ill-discipline. 

And then there is the form of Federico Valverde. Last year, he was immense, full of legs and providing some attacking quality, too. This year, he is still a willing runner, but looks a little slower. There were times, last season, where he could play two vs one. Not anymore.

After submitting their offer, Sunderland could now receive a major boost in pursuit of their late transfer target amid reports that the selling club are now set to discuss his departure.

Sunderland still chasing late targets

It’s already been a hectic summer for all involved at the Stadium of Light. As many as 12 fresh faces have arrived to join up with Regis Le Bris’ side, who are vying for survival at the first time of asking in the Premier League. But Sunderland aren’t done there. After suffering defeat at the hands of Burnley, a defensive reinforcement is still on the cards.

After losing Daniel Ballard to a groin injury against Burnley, it’s not a surprise that Sunderland have turned straight to the transfer market. Whilst the extent of his injury is yet to be revealed, the Black Cats will be keen to ensure that the drop-off in quality without their defensive leader isn’t so alarming.

As such, Chelsea’s Axel Disasi has reportedly emerged on their radar. The centre-back is part of the Stamford Bridge ‘bomb squad’ and doesn’t even have a place in Enzo Maresca’s dressing room as he continues to train away from the first-team. In desperate need of a move away, Sunderland would be an ideal option.

They’re not the only side interested, however. Battling alongside Sunderland, Bournemouth have also set their sights on the central defender and can offer a loan with an option to buy. Sunderland, of course, are not in a position to put a loan deal together, having already welcomed Marc Guiu on a temporary basis from the London club.

That said, Disasi is not the only name that those in Wearside have in mind. Reports are also suggesting that they’ve already tabled an offer to sign an alternative target.

Bologna now discussing Lucumi sale

According to reports in Italy, as relayed by Sport Witness, Bologna are now set to discuss the sale of Jhon Lucumi in a potential boost for Sunderland with their €30m (£26m) offer still on the table.

Although Bologna’s CEO, Claudio Fenucci, told reporters that the “timeframe for the offer didn’t materialise”, Sunderland have now been handed a glimmer of hope by reports claiming that the Italian club are already attempting to welcome Union Berlin’s Diogo Leite to replace Lucumi.

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What’s more, the defender’s agent has been far from private when it comes to detailing his client’s desire to leave the club, saying via Fabrizio Romano: “Last year we were asked to stay and we did so with great availability. This year, however, since the beginning of the season, the message has always been clear on both sides: if the right offer had arrived, Jhon would have had the possibility of a transfer.”

With less than a week to go until the window slams shut, Sunderland’s offer remains on the table and Lucumi’s stance seemingly remains the same. But whether the defender ends the summer as a Premier League player still remains to be seen.

Manchester City are already looking ahead to the January window and appear primed to commence talks with a prime target to strengthen their forward line.

Manchester City prepare to face Manchester United in derby clash

Despite their dominance in the fixture since 2010, Manchester City take on Manchester United this Sunday in a match that Pep Guardiola will be hoping to see a vast improvement from his side in following a poor Premier League start.

The Citizens’ opening day victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers delivered some early promise for supporters to work with, but back-to-back defeats against Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton & Hove Albion have left the club in an unusual position of 13th.

In what could be a potential baptism of fire for Gianluigi Donnarumma, the Italy international has signalled his excitement to work under Guardiola and outlined his hopes to be a major part of future success at the Etihad Stadium.

“I think his history speaks for itself. The fact that he wanted me here is a reason to be proud of. It’s an indescribable emotion. Being coached by him I think is the best for a football player.

“I can’t wait to follow him and take to the pitch with him. I’m sure he will help me a lot and we will do great things together, this season as well as in the following years. As we said, it’s been an era of unbelievable success here.”

Looking ahead, January could be a big month at the club and Manchester City are reportedly plotting a mid-season move for Real Madrid attacker Rodrygo, though he isn’t the only high-profile star they are considering to add some inspiration to their forward line.

Manchester City preparing bid to sign Bradley Barcola

According to reports in Spain, Manchester City are set to commence talks as they prepare to bid for Bradley Barcola in January, who has been identified as a target due to uncertainty over Savinho’s future at the Sky Blues.

Establishing himself as a key figure at Paris Saint-Germain, the France international is said to be valued at around £87 million and has registered 27 goals and 31 assists in 107 appearances across all competitions.

The report states Guardiola thinks Barcola could be key in the second half of the season alongside Erling Haaland, Phil Foden, and Jeremy Doku.

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Dubbed “one of the best dribblers in Europe” by Luis Enrique, he has already put that to the test this campaign, evading his marker four times and creating six chances in Ligue 1, per Fotmob.

Guardiola sees the arrival of Barcola as a priority to strengthen his frontline, which already includes the likes of Erling Haaland, Phil Foden and Oscar Bobb and his versatility on both flanks is something that he feels would offer balance in the long-term.

Manchester City have enacted a notable squad refresh this summer and being able to secure another talented star with a high level of pedrigree would be a statement to their competitors across Europe.

Everton’s summer transfer window has been defined by a need to strengthen both in attack and defence.

After the addition of Jack Grealish on loan from Manchester City, attention has now turned to shoring up the back line.

The Toffees were caught short in their opening Premier League defeat away at Leeds, with James Garner deputising at left-back in Vitaliy Mykolenko’s absence.

Jarrad Branthwaite’s injury further compounds the situation, leaving manager David Moyes eager to explore options that could reinforce the defensive spine of his team.

To complement a backline that conceded only 44 times last season, the joint fourth-best defensive record in the league, Everton must identify players capable of adding both experience and quality at the back.

Against this backdrop, Everton have begun exploring defensive reinforcements who could address immediate gaps while providing long-term stability.

Everton hold talks over Manchester City defender

According to TEAMtalk, Everton have entered exploratory talks regarding a move for Manchester City defender, Nathan Ake.

Described as an “exceptional guy” by Pep Guardiola, the 30-year-old is being considered as a potential addition to help strengthen a defence that Moyes is keen to build on.

Manchester City are reportedly open to selling the player, largely because of the depth of their squad and recent acquisitions in defence, including Rayan Ait Nouri.

Guardiola’s known preference for a smaller squad makes a move more feasible, though any transfer is likely to require a substantial fee, with City valuing the player in the £30-35m range.

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While a loan deal with an obligation-to-buy clause could be considered, Everton cannot pursue that route due to rules that prevent them from taking two players on loan from the same club in one window, as they have already signed Grealish.

The defender is reportedly eager for consistent first-team football and is understood to prefer a club competing in European competitions, which could complicate negotiations, especially considering Newcastle hold an interest.

However, Everton are determined to find a solution before the window closes.

What Nathan Ake can bring to Everton

Ake offers versatility because he is capable of playing at both centre-back and left-back and brings extensive Premier League experience.

Since joining City from Bournemouth for £41m in 2020, he has been a reliable squad player, regularly competing with the likes of Ruben Dias, John Stones, Manuel Akanji, and Josko Gvardiol for minutes.

Last season, he featured 29 times in the league, showcasing his composure on the ball and technical reliability.

According to FBref, he ranks in the 99th percentile for pass completion rate at 94.4% and the 95th percentile for progressive passes per 90 minutes, with 6.17 per match.

His progressive carries per 90 also place him in the 90th percentile, highlighting an ability to advance the ball effectively from deep positions.

Despite these attributes, the player is less remarkable in traditional defensive metrics, ranking in the bottom 20 percentiles for tackles, blocks, interceptions, and dribblers tackled.

However, at City, his role has often been more focused on ball progression and positional play than on direct defensive duels, suggesting that under Moyes, who may deploy him with different responsibilities, he could adapt and improve in these areas.

Everton’s acquisition of Grealish on loan from Manchester City has added creativity to the squad, but the limitations of the forward are clear.

At 29, he has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, missing 17 games over the past two campaigns.

In 2023/24, Grealish played just 721 minutes, starting only seven matches and making 13 substitute appearances, per Transfermarkt.

His output last season was modest, with a single goal and one assist, though his quality on the ball and ability to create chances has never been in doubt.

Thomas Tuchel has emphasised that consistent first-team football is vital for Grealish if he has plans to play at the World Cup next year.

By contrast, Ake could provide a more immediate and reliable impact in a key area of need. The contrast between these two summer moves underlines Everton’s evolving priorities.

With the squad already strengthened in attack by the likes of Grealish and Thierno Barry, the remaining requirement is to ensure defensive stability.

Injuries to Branthwaite and Mykolenko have exposed the need for experienced and adaptable players who can seamlessly slot into multiple positions. The City defender’s Premier League experience, technical quality, and leadership make him a more impactful addition relative to the immediate threat posed by injuries.

His presence could allow Moyes to maintain balance across the pitch, protect the defensive line, and build a platform from which the team can attack more confidently.

While City value him at £30-35m, the investment is aligned with the type of secure, experienced reinforcement that Everton require.

In comparison, Grealish’s loan structure provides creative options but comes with limitations on continuity and availability, particularly if injuries recur.

For a manager focused on building a resilient and balanced squad capable of competing across a demanding Premier League season, the addition of a versatile centre-back offers more tangible returns than an attacking loan.

Everton’s interest in the Manchester City defender reflects a pragmatic approach to squad building.

By prioritising defensive reinforcement over additional offensive firepower, Moyes is targeting the most pressing weakness in his side.

The player’s Premier League experience, positional versatility, and technical skill offer a solution that addresses immediate needs while providing scope for adaptation and growth.

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