Fabrizio Romano: Tottenham take "formal steps" for next signing after medical

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has just watched Spurs legend Son Heung-min confirm that he will be leaving the club in an emotional press conference, with the north Londoners poised to continue making headlines this transfer window.

Tottenham talks "underway" to hijack deal for PSG player alongside Palhinha

Spurs are after another player after sealing the Portugal international.

1

By
Emilio Galantini

Aug 1, 2025

It has been a fairly eventful summer at N17 thus far, having spent over £110 million in total on the signings of Kevin Danso, Mathys Tel, Kota Takai and Mohammed Kudus.

Their recruitment expenditure would’ve been £170 million if Morgan Gibbs-White had sealed his £60 million move to Spurs – as was widely expected around three weeks ago. However, after a very unexpected chain of events, including legal threats from Nottingham Forest, his transfer was blocked, and he’s since signed a new contract at the City Ground.

Tottenham’s best-performing regulars in the Premier League – 2024/2025

Average match rating

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

Tottenham are still in the market for a new playmaker and alternative to Gibbs-White, with chairman Daniel Levy also reportedly considering an audacious move for Real Madrid forward Rodrygo.

Their need to sign a new left-winger is also emphasised by Son’s now-imminent departure.

The South Korean burst into tears after he announced that this year would be his last in a Tottenham shirt, and the Lilywhites must now begin the search for his potential replacement after Son’s stellar decade in north London.

“Before we start, I just want to share the information that I have decided to leave this club this summer,” said Son.

“Respectfully, this club is helping me to make my decision. It was the most difficult decision I have made in my career. The main reason is I have achieved everything I can at Tottenham. I need a new environment for a fresh challenge.

“I have been here for 10 years. It’s a beautiful club with beautiful fans. I have such amazing memories. I just felt like I need a new environment to push myself to get more out of me. I think I need a little bit of change. Ten years is a long time.”

As one big name looks set to depart, another comes through the door.

Joao Palhinha completes Tottenham medical with "formal steps" to follow

According to Fabrizio Romano, midfielder Joao Palhinha is on the verge of completing his move to Spurs on loan from Bayern Munich.

The Portugal international agreed a temporary deal with an option to buy for around £26 million next summer, and Romano claims that Palhinha has now completed his Tottenham medical with “formal steps” to follow between the clubs.

Palhinha’s debut campaign at Bayern, after he sealed a long-awaited move there from Fulham last year, wasn’t exactly ideal.

The 30-year-old fell down Vincent Kompany’s pecking order following a season blighted by injury and suspension, with Palhinha now returning to London just 12 months after waving goodbye to Craven Cottage.

Spurs will cover his full £166,000-per-week salary, but Frank is apparently “really excited” about signing Palhinha as he’s exactly the type of player Tottenham’s new head coach has been looking for (Fabrizio Romano).

Bigger signing than Antman: Rangers must swoop for "complete" £7m star

Glasgow Rangers are back in action in the Champions League again this evening as they prepare to take on Viktoria Plzen in the first leg of their third-round qualifier at Ibrox.

The Light Blues will once again be without summer signing Thelo Aasgaard, who has yet to make his debut for the club, after Russell Martin confirmed that he is out injured, alongside Moroccan forward Hamza Igamane.

Signed from Luton Town last month, the Norway international has been injured for all three of the club’s competitive games so far this season, with tonight being the fourth match that he will miss.

There is a new signing who could make his debut for the Scottish Premiership giants this evening, though, as Oliver Antman has arrived on a permanent deal from Go Ahead Eagles.

Rangers have reportedly agreed a deal worth up to £4m to bring the Finland international to Ibrox, but what can supporters expect from the right-sided attacker?

What Oliver Antman could bring to Rangers

The 23-year-old forward is a creative and forward-thinking player who constantly looks to open up the opposition’s defence to create high-quality chances for his teammates.

Sporting director Kevin Thelwell described him as an “exciting talent who has demonstrated great technical ability and maturity at a young age”, which is backed up by his form for Go Ahead Eagles in the Eredivisie last season.

The Finnish wing wizard ended the season with a return of seven goals and 17 assists in all competitions for the Dutch side. It does not take a genius to work out what his main strength is as a player from that haul of goal contributions; he’s a creator.

Starts

28

Goals

6

Key passes per game

1.6

Big chances created

16

xA

6.54

Assists

15

As you can see in the table above, Antman created 16 ‘big chances’ in just 28 starts in the Eredivisie for Go Ahead Eagles last term, which suggests that he could be an incredibly creative force for Martin on the right wing with his deliveries into the box.

However, the winger also only managed six goals from 6.99 xG in those 28 starts. This suggests that Gers supporters should expect a few big misses in front of goal from the forward, who has not proven himself to be clinical with the chances that come his way.

It is also worth noting that Antman is coming over from the Dutch top-flight and has not experienced Scottish football before, which means that there is no guarantee that he can translate his performances over to the Premiership.

If he can adapt to the country and the league, though, then Rangers will have an exciting winger who could create plenty of chances for the team this season.

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The Light Blues, however, could land an even bigger signing for the team than Antman by signing a proven Premiership performer who could come in and hit the ground running at Ibrox.

Rangers have been linked with an interest in Girona centre-forward Bojan Miovski, who left Aberdeen to move to Spain for a reported fee of £7m last year, and the Macedonia international would come in as a terrific addition to the squad if they could get a deal over the line.

Why Rangers should sign Bojan Miovski

Martin and Thelwell should push to bring the left-footed number nine back to Scotland and the Premiership before the end of the summer transfer window at the start of September.

Bojan Miovski for North Macedonia.

This is because Miovski is a proven star who has been there and done it over multiple seasons in the Scottish top-flight, which means that he would not be a risky signing like Antman, who may or may not adapt to the league.

The 26-year-old star only managed four goals in 22 matches for Girona in all competitions during the 2024/25 campaign, but his form in the previous two seasons with Aberdeen is what the Gers should be focused on.

Aberdeen striker Bojan Miovski.

Miovski scored 44 goals in 98 matches in all competitions for the Dons during his two-year spell at the club, which is an impressive return that works out at just under a goal every other game.

The £7m-rated centre-forward also proved himself in the biggest games in Scotland. He scored four goals in nine matches against Rangers and three goals in seven outings against Celtic in those two seasons, which shows that the forward stepped up to produce quality against the top two teams in the division.

Miovski has been there and done it against the two Old Firm clubs and has shown that he can deliver in the biggest games, hence why he would be such a huge signing for Rangers.

Cyriel Dessers has only scored two goals in ten games against Celtic for Rangers, compared to the former Aberdeen star’s return of three in seven against the Hoops, which suggests that Martin could increase his side’s chances of winning the Old Firm clashes by signing the Girona forward.

xG

15.60

17.08

xG on target

18.36

17.60

Goals

16

16

Shots on target

36

44

Chances created

27

23

Assists

2

2

As you can see in the table above, Miovski scored 32 goals in two Premiership seasons with the Dons, and he could have scored even more if opposition goalkeepers had not been in top form.

His xG on target (the xG value of the quality of shot taken) was higher than his xG in both campaigns, which essentially means that the quality of his attempts on goal outweighed the quality of chances that were created for him.

This suggests that Miovski, who was once dubbed a “complete number 9” by journalist Josh Bunting, is a ruthless and clinical striker who can more than make the most of the chances that come his way.

All of this put together is why the Macedonia international would be an even bigger signing for Rangers than Antman, because he is a Premiership and Celtic proven goalscorer who can hit the ground running as an instant star.

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Antman may need time to adapt to the league and the culture in Scotland, and there is no guarantee that he will be able to do that, which is why he is a far riskier signing who may not be able to bring the level of quality that Miovski would guarantee.

Romero will love him: Spurs chasing "one of the best defenders in the PL"

Whilst Thomas Frank managed to win his first Premier League game as Tottenham Hotspur manager, the club still have work to do before the end of the summer transfer window.

He’s already been backed by the board, landing a £55m deal for Mohammed Kudus, but ultimately, further big-money reinforcements are needed to avoid a repeat of the 2024/25 campaign.

The Lilywhites ended the previous year in 17th place, still managing to win the Europa League, with the Dane the man to lead them into the Champions League this season.

However, if the 51-year-old is to be successful in either of the competitions in the near future, he will need added quality in depth within key areas of the pitch.

Big money will likely need to be spent if added success is to be achieved, but one of the club’s key dealings may have already taken place over the last couple of days.

Tottenham Hotspur managerThomasFrankcelebrates after the match

Cristian Romero’s new contract at Tottenham Hotspur

Back in the summer of 2021, Spurs completed the loan signing of Cristian Romero from Italian outfit Atalanta, making the centre-back’s move permanent 12 months later – costing around £42.5m in the process.

Whilst his disciplinary record has often been brought into question, he’s been a key component of the Lilywhites’ backline, making 126 appearances over the last four years.

The 27-year-old was named the club’s captain last week, highlighting the trust new boss Frank has placed in him – understandably so given his Man of the Match showing in the European final against Manchester United.

The good news has continued for the Argentine, penning a new four-year deal until the summer of 2029, with such a move arguably one of the best pieces of business conducted by the club this window, amid interest from Spanish giants Atlético Madrid.

However, despite Romero’s new contract, the hierarchy are looking to add further quality into the club’s backline, handing Frank the added depth he needs to help the side challenge at the top of England’s top-flight.

Spurs targeting move for a new Romero partner

Over recent days, Spurs have entered talks with Manchester City over a potential deal for 20-year-old right-back Rico Lewis – potentially providing competition for Pedro Porro.

The Englishman has also been subject to interest from Nottingham Forest, but it’s been confirmed that the youngster wants to remain at the Etihad beyond the summer window.

However, he’s not the only defender in their sights, with the club also strongly considering a move to land Brentford star Nathan Collins, according to the Daily Mail.

Their report claims that the Lilywhites have been closely monitoring the Irish international, who featured in every single minute of the previous Premier League campaign.

It also states that Manchester United and Liverpool are also plotting a move for the 24-year-old, but Spurs could hold the key to any move, given the centre-back’s previous time playing under Frank at the GTEC.

Why Spurs’ latest target could be perfect for Romero

Whilst Frank has only overseen two competitive games as Spurs boss, he’s already showcased his versatility in the role, operating with various different systems.

In the UEFA Super Cup final against PSG, the Dane utilised a back-five, whilst switching back to a more familiar back four in the win against Burnley on Saturday.

However, if the club are to be a success, adapting the side based upon the opposition is vital, something which was hugely lacking during Ange Postecoglou’s tenure.

A move for Collins could offer the new boss the depth he craves, adding another option to the heart of the defence, which could allow for a centre-back trio of Micky van de Ven, Romero and the Irishman.

It’s unclear how much a deal for the Bees star would set the hierarchy back before the September 1st deadline, but it would be a transfer that would add the needed quality to the defensive unit.

Brentford'sNathanCollinsapplauds

When comparing his stats to those of Romero from 2024/25, the 24-year-old managed to outperform the Argentine in key areas, even ranking highly among other defenders in the division.

Collins, who’s been labelled “one of the best defenders in the Premier League” by journalist Mario Marra, ranked in the 97th percentile for blocks made (2.1) whilst ranking in the 89th percentile for aerials won (3.1), according to FBref.

Games played

38

18

Goals & assists

5

1

Progressive carries

0.9

0.7

Progressive passes

4.8

4.5

Blocks made

2.1

1.1

Clearances made

5.9

3.6

Aerials won

3.1

2.6

Aerial success rate

63%

60%

Such figures are both higher than those produced by Romero, which would subsequently hand Frank the quality at the back to improve the record of 65 league goals conceded last season.

The Irishman also achieved a better aerial success rate last season, whilst making nearly two times more clearances per 90 – further highlighting the quality he possesses without the ball.

Nathan Collins

However, despite Collins’ ability without the ball, he’s also showcased his talent in possession, something which has been vital in Frank’s system – as seen by the Bees’ average possession of 48% in the Premier League during 2024/25.

He managed to achieve more progressive passes and carries per 90 last season, able to seamlessly fit into the manager’s plans given his previous stint under his guidance.

Whilst it’s unclear how much the Bees will be demanding to part ways with their captain, it’s a deal that could transform the Lilywhites’ fortunes within the defensive third.

If he can replicate such numbers from 2024/25, he could prove to be the perfect partner for Romero, which could provide added success for the club in the not-too-distant future.

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Barcelona stars join Real Madrid in skipping Ballon d'Or ceremony as Pedri & Robert Lewandowski make 'surprising' decision

Barcelona stars Pedri and Robert Lewandowski will join Real Madrid players in skipping the Ballon d'Or ceremony in Paris on Monday. The Barca duo, along with team-mates Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, have been nominated for the Golden Ball while manager Hansi Flick is in contention to win the best coach's award after guiding the Catalan giants to three titles in his maiden season.

Pedri and Lewandowski achieved success last season

Both Pedri and Lewandowski had tremendous outings with Barcelona and the duo played a pivotal role in the Catalan club's three trophy wins, including the La Liga title triumph. Lewandowski was the team's highest scorer with 42 goals to his name across all competitions. 

AdvertisementAFPBarcelona duo to skip Ballon d'Or ceremony

According to , Pedri and Lewandowski have decided not to travel to Paris on Monday for the Ballon d'Or ceremony as they do not consider themselves front-runners to win the Golden Ball. Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal and their Brazilian star Raphinha are contesting with Paris Saint-Germain's Ousmane Dembele for the top award. further reports that Pedri has informed the Catalan side that he is prioritising rest over the ceremony to maintain fitness amid a hectic schedule. 

Barcelona women's stars in contention for Ballon d’Or Feminin

Other than the Barcelona men's star, several players from their women's team are nominated for the Ballon d'Or Feminin award. The list includes Aitana Bonmati, Alexia Putellas, Caroline Graham Hansen, Patri Guijarro, Ewa Pajor, Claudia Pina, Vicky Lopez and Cata Coll.

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GettyMbappe to skip Paris ceremony

Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe will join Pedri and Lewandowski in skipping the ceremony, as he had earlier confirmed that he would watch it on television and is backing compatriot Dembele to win the ultimate prize.

Gruev upgrade: Leeds contenders to sign a star who's "similar to Busquets"

Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has revealed that he is sweating on the fitness of Ao Tanaka after the 5-0 defeat to Arsenal at The Emirates on Saturday.

Speaking after the game, the German head coach explained: “After a tackle in the first half, he had problems with his MCL.

“He kept going and I hope it’s not too bad. I hope the assessment is not too bad. There are a few concerns that it would be an injury but it’s normally positive that he could play further on. But we will have to assess him and we will see how long it takes to get him fit and back to full fitness.”

Farke says that he hopes that it is not a bad injury for Tanaka, and that feeling may be compounded by a similar injury to club captain Ethan Ampadu last week.

The Wales international is due to be out until after the international break, at least, with an MCL injury that was sustained against Everton on the opening day.

That injury to the skipper allowed Ilia Gruev to test himself at Premier League level against the Gunners on Saturday, but he was unable to impress with his showing in midfield.

Why Ilia Gruev may not be the answer for Leeds

Speaking ahead of the clash with Arsenal, Farke revealed that Sean Longstaff is more suited to playing as a number eight instead of as a replacement for Ampadu in the number six role, which is why Gruev was then selected against Arsenal.

Unfortunately, though, the Bulgaria international failed to show the defensive strength and quality that was needed to protect the back four, in what turned out to be a hammering by Mikel Arteta’s side.

The left-footed maestro only started 20 times in the Championship last season, per Sofascore, and won 52% of his duels in the second tier as Leeds largely dominated games with the ball.

Gruev’s lack of physicality meant that there was always going to be a question mark over his head going into the Premier League season, and his performances in the first two games have not changed that.

Ilia Gruev

Vs Everton

Vs Arsenal

Minutes

13

90

Pass accuracy

80%

92%

Key passes

0

0

Tackles

0

1

Interceptions

0

1

Duels won

0/1

1/3

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, the former Werder Bremen star has only won one of his four duels in 103 minutes of action in the top-flight to date.

His lack of physicality was on display in the 5-0 defeat to Arsenal as he only won one duel in 90 minutes against a side that was constantly attacking his half of the pitch, which shows that he was not offering enough protection in front of the back four.

The Championship champions are now reportedly keen on bringing in another option in that area of the pitch who could come in as an upgrade on Gruev.

Leeds eyeing move for Bundesliga midfielder

According to Monday’s edition of Bild, as relayed by Sport Witness, Leeds United are one of the teams in the race to sign Borussia Monchengladbach defensive midfielder Julian Weigl.

The report claims that the Premier League side and Al-Shabab FC are both contenders to land a deal for the Germany international before the end of the summer transfer window.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

It states that the Bundesliga outfit are set to allow him to move on before the deadline after the player requested to be allowed to explore a move elsewhere.

Sport Witness relay quotes from Gladbach director Roland Virkus explaining the situation: “The important thing was: He asked us to release him for talks. We are also in talks. That’s the way it is. That doesn’t mean he won’t return to the squad if they fail. That’s open. It was important for Julian to be able to hold talks with the clubs.”

It is said that Weigl is available for a fee of around £5m, amid interest from Leeds and Al-Shabab, and it is now down to the 49ers to get a deal done for the German star.

Why Leeds should sign Julian Weigl

Off the back of the injuries to Ampadu and Tanaka, securing a cut-price deal to sign Weigl from Gladbach as an upgrade on Gruev in the number six position could be a shrewd move by the club.

The 29-year-old star is a natural number six who could slot into that role at the base of the midfield when Ampadu is unavailable, or off the bench when needed.

Speaking about Weigl’s style of play, defender Marc Bartra once said: “He is very similar to Busquets. He dictates play from midfield and helps us a lot when we lose the ball, it looks like he always has everything under control. He really reminds me of Busquets a lot, even if there is obviously still some distance between the two of them.”

As someone who played alongside Busquets at Barcelona and Weigl at Borussia Dortmund, Barta is possibly the best-placed person to make such a connection, and it speaks to the profile of player that Leeds would be signing.

Sergio Busquets for Spain

The German ace could be Farke’s own Busquets at the base of the midfield as an upgrade on Gruev who can offer more to the team out of possession in what is set to be a scrap to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

24/25 Bundesliga

Julian Weigl per 90

Percentile rank vs midfielders

Tackles + interceptions

3.16

Top 37%

Clearances

2.69

Top 20%

Shots blocked

0.84

Top 2%

Percentage of dribblers tackled

60.9%

Top 13%

Blocks

1.69

Top 28%

Challenges lost

0.56

Top 13%

Aerial duel success rate

67.2%

Top 2%

Stats via FBref

As you can see in the table above, Weigl ranked highly among his positional peers in the Bundesliga last season in a host of defensive metrics, including his success rate in duels on the deck and in the air.

These statistics show that he can be a dominant defensive force against opposition players at the top level, whilst Gruev was not outstanding physically in the Championship and has struggled with the physicality of the Premier League so far.

Weigl, who started 33 games in the Bundesliga last season, per Sofascore, is an experienced campaigner who has played for Farke in the past and has proven himself in one of Europe’s major leagues.

This is why he could come in as a fantastic bargain signing for £5m as an upgrade on Gruev due to the defensive and physical qualities that he can bring to the number six position as a Busquets-esque figure.

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This is why Farke should be pushing the club to get this deal done before the deadline because he could be an experienced alternative to Ampadu at the base of the midfield, as a strong and dependable option who can be relied upon as a defensive force.

Farhan Ahmed shines with bat and ball for England in Under-19s Test

Nottinghamshire allrounder adds three-wicket haul after top-scoring on day one

ECB Reporters Network27-Jan-2025

Muhammed Bulbulia held the South Africa innings together with 88•Gallo Images/Getty Images

Spin duo Tazeem Ali and Farhan Ahmed claimed three wickets each to inspire a strong England Men Uunder-19s fightback late on day two of the first Youth Test against South Africa Men U19s in Stellenbosch.Jason Rowles and Muhammed Bulbulia shared a 139-run third wicket stand before the Young Lions took 6 for 57 to leave the hosts 269 for 8 at stumps – still 30 runs behind.Farhan had helped the Young Lions recover on day one with a composed 90 and the 16-year-old Nottinghamshire allrounder was at it again with the ball as he first bowled Adnaan Lagadien on way to figures of 3 for 74.Tazeem broke the Rowles and Bulbulia partnership, when the latter was bowled by the perfect legspinner’s delivery that pitched on leg and took the top of off stump.England captain Archie Vaughan removed Rowles, top-edging a slog-sweep that was easily held by wicketkeeper Thomas Rew, who then produced a sharp catch down leg to give Farhan his second wicket.Farhan then struck from the final ball of the day, with fielders crowding the bat, when Ben Dawkins held a low catch at first slip to remove Lethabo Phahlamohlaka.

Tottenham "hoping for a twist" with £69m+ bid for "brilliant" star now ready

Tottenham Hotspur have held a fresh round of talks over a deal for a “brilliant” star, and they are now ready to submit a huge bid, with chiefs “hoping for a twist” as we enter the final week of the transfer window.

Tottenham pushing to sign forward before transfer deadline

Thomas Frank has made a fantastic start to life as Tottenham boss, winning his opening two Premier League games, and the most recent victory was undoubtedly the most impressive, with his side extending their fantastic record against Manchester City.

Spurs ran out 2-0 winners at the Etihad Stadium, with Brennan Johnson and Joao Palhinha getting on the scoresheet, while Richarlison grabbed an assist, with the Brazilian following up a brilliant performance against Burnley on the opening day, during which he bagged a brace.

The Lilywhites’ attacking quality has been on full display in their first two matches, but they are evidently a little light on options, given that Wilson Odobert, who the north Londoners are willing to sell, has featured in both Premier League games thus far.

As such, it is vital that Daniel Levy brings in another winger before the rapidly approaching deadline, and according to a report from TEAMtalk, a huge bid for Man City’s Savinho is now ready, with Tottenham prepared to pay over £69.2m for the Brazilian.

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Spurs have held a fresh round of talks over a deal for the winger, but City have been reluctant to sanction a departure, which means many club chiefs now believe that a deal will not be possible.

However, according to reporter Rudy Galetti on X, the north Londoners are still attentive to the situation, and are “hoping for a late twist”.

Savinho could be "brilliant" signing for Tottenham

A fee of over £69m would be a huge outlay for the Brazil international, but he could kick on at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, where he would be more likely to receive more game time, given the lack of depth at Frank’s disposal.

The starlet made a fantastic start to life in the Premier League last season, picking up 11 goal contributions in 29 outings, and Pep Guardiola described the City forward as “brilliant” back in May.

Savinho still needs to improve some aspects of his game, with Guardiola admitting the youngster struggles in “final positions”, which is evidenced by the fact he scored just one Premier League goal last season, but the City ace clearly has a lot of potential.

Luka Modric makes 'everything easier' – AC Milan star named one of Serie A's 'strongest' and compared to legend Andrea Pirlo as 40-year-old continues to thrive since Real Madrid exit

AC Milan legend Demetrio Albertini has praised midfielder Luka Modric, saying he brings calmness to the team and is helping his team-mates perform at their best. Albertini also compared Modric to former Italian midfielder Andrea Pirlo, noting that both players reinvented themselves with age to meet the needs of their teams.

  • Modric’s move to Milan

    Modric joined Milan from Real Madrid on a free transfer after his contract with the Spanish club expired. Milan have won three of their four games so far, with Modric contributing a goal and an assist. His performances have drawn widespread praise, with coach Massimiliano Allegri noting that he is often a step ahead of his opponents.

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    Albertini's praise and comparison to Pirlo

    In an interview with , Albertini hails Modric for the quality he has transmitted not just on the field but in off the field as well, saying: “Modric has brought calm and serenity to the group. Only a great champion who plays in that position can get his team-mates to perform better than expected. With Luka, everything is easier. Both for the young players and the new ones.

    “Modric shouldn't chase opponents, but rather give direction to the play. He needs midfielders who can find him, and he dictates the passing. You can't ask him to have the physical stamina of a twenty-year-old or run for 90 minutes. But with those feet, he makes the difference.”

    Albertini also compared Modric to another Milan midfielder who re-invented his, adding: “The comparison between the two holds true, and it's no coincidence that they are two attacking midfielders who, over the course of their careers, have moved back to put their skills to work for the team. Previously, the front 10, from [Michel] Platini to Giannini, were protected by midfielders and played high up the pitch. Then, players like Ancelotti and myself were deployed in the middle, who could play both as holding midfielders and as playmakers. Pirlo changed football in that role, and now Milan has another champion in front of the defence.”

  • Milan's Scudetto Challenge and their improved defence

    Pirlo became a Serie A legend across his spell at AC Milan, where he won two Serie A titles, before he was allowed to leave for Juventus due to his age. He went on to claim a whopping four league crowns with the Bianconeri before ending his career at New York City. Modric is hoping to have a similar late-career impact in the Italian top-flight, and Albertini says the Rossoneri are obligated to challenge for the title.

    "Milan can't, but they must, fight for the Scudetto," he added. "When you wear the Rossoneri shirt, you're forced to aim for the top, also to understand what you're missing the following year. Managing moments during the season is an unknown for everyone, but these first few days have shown that the Rossoneri can stay at the top.

    "[Allegri] knows how to win and how to build something. If you have a solid group, that follows you and works well, transmitting your tactical beliefs is easier. Against Bologna and in Udine I saw a team with clear ideas."

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  • Getty Images Sport

    Modric's target this season

    Modric will hope to guide Milan to their 20th Scudetto title while keeping himself in peak condition to join the Croatian national team for the 2026 World Cup.

فيديو | إبراهيم عادل يسجل هدف منتخب مصر الأول أمام جيبوتي

تمكن منتخب مصر من تسجيل الهدف الأول أمام نظيره جيبوتي، في اللقاء الجاري الآن ضمن التصفيات المؤهلة إلى كأس العالم 2026.

وتقام المباراة بين مصر وجيبوتي، على أرضية استاد العربي الزاولي، في إطار لقاءات الجولة التاسعة من تصفيات كأس العالم.

وجاء الهدف عن طريق إبراهيم عادل في الدقيقة 8 من عمر اللقاء، من رأسية بعد عرضية من أحمد سيد زيزو.

ويتصدر منتخب مصر ترتيب المجموعة الأولى من تصفيات كأس العالم، برصيد 20 نقطة، وتأتي بوركينا فاسو في المركز الثاني برصيد 15 نقطة.

وتضم المجموعة الأولى من تصفيات كأس العالم، منتخبات “مصر وجيبوتي وغينيا بيساو وبوركينا فاسو وسيراليون وإثيوبيا”. هدف إبراهيم عادل أمام جيبوتي

 

Escalação do São Paulo: Nestor deve ser principal novidade em time titular que busca classificação na Sul-Americana

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De todos os jogadores do São Paulo, apenas dois deles já devem saber que estão com escalação garantida para o duelo das 19h (de Brasília) desta quinta-feira (8) contra o Tolima, no Morumbi, pela Copa Sul-Americana: o goleiro Rafael e o meia Nestor.

O camisa 11 deve ser a principal novidade nos titulares do Tricolor para o confronto. Totalmente recuperado de uma fadiga muscular no reto femoral direito que o tirou dos últimos quatro jogos, deverá começar como titular no meio-campo.

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+ Di Maria livre no mercado, Corinthians se distancia de dupla “apalavrada”… o Dia do Mercado!

Quem também deverá ser relacionado é o atacante Erison. Depois de voltar a trabalhar com o restante da equipe na segunda-feira (5), o jogador deu sinais de estar em recuperação avançada pelo estiramento em fibrose da coxa esquerda e voltou a trabalhar sem limitações. Não atua há 14 partidas.

Para o duelo ante o Tolima, o técnico Dorival Júnior vive um dilema. Isso porque o Tricolor assegura a classificação como líder do Grupo D com um triunfo diante do rival. Entretanto, por outro lado, o desgaste pode ser prejudicial para o clássico contra o Palmeiras, às 16h (de Brasília) de domingo (11), no Morumbi, pelo Campeonato Brasileiro. Após a derrota para o Grêmio, de virada, no último final de semana, se recuperar ante um rival se torna fundamental para evitar que o clima de otimismo se transforme em crise.

Por conta disso, todo planejamento é fundamental para as decisões que Dorival irá tomar nos próximos jogos. Titular ou reservas? Ou um ‘mistão’? O esquema com três zagueiros utilizado em Porto Alegre (RS) pode voltar a ser usado, até como forma de aperfeiçoamento ante um adversário mais frágil, como o Tolima?

Dúvidas e mais dúvidas que o treinador não quis dar nenhuma pista para antecipar respostas.

– Temos que ter uma equipe forte no próximo fim de semana (contra o Palmeiras), mas temos que ter uma equipe muito bem preparada para o meio de semana, que será um jogo decisivo, que poderá nos dar a classificação e a possibilidade de uma ida às fases mais importantes da Copa
Sul-Americana. Para nós, o jogo será decisivo. Podem ter certeza de que voltaremos a fazer um grande jogo perante o nosso torcedor e vamos buscar o melhor resultado – disse Dorival, após a derrota para o Grêmio.

Nos trabalhos desta quarta-feira (7), no CT da Barra Funda, após um vídeo no auditório, os jogadores seguiram para o gramado, onde realizaram um aquecimento sob a supervisão da preparação física.

Na sequência, o técnico Dorival Júnior e seus auxiliares comandaram três atividades diferentes. A primeira, de parte técnica, teve como objetivo aprimorar a troca de passes, os cruzamentos e as finalizações para o gol. A segunda, tática, teve foco na movimentação e posicionamento da equipe. E por último houve um treino de bolas paradas ofensivas e defensivas.

O provável São Paulo para enfrentar o Tolima vem com Rafael; Rafinha (Nathan), Arboleda (Diego Costa), Beraldo e Caio; Pablo Maia, Gabriel Neves e Nestor; Alisson (Wellington Rato), Luciano (Marcos Paulo) e Calleri.

+ Todos os jogos do Brasileirão você encontra no Prime Video. Assine já e acompanhe o seu time do coração!

+ Clique aqui e veja como apostar no Brasileirão

+ Confira os jogos e classificação resultados da Sul-Americana-23 na tabela do LANCE!

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