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Newcastle and Aston Villa Surge as Spurs Nottingham Forest Tumble in Final Premier League Rankings

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago03 mins

As the curtain falls on the 2024–25 Premier League season, ESPN’s final power rankings have revealed major shifts across the table, with Newcastle United and Aston Villa emerging as the biggest winners, while Tottenham Hotspur and Nottingham Forest suffer significant drops in form and standing. Newcastle United completed a remarkable campaign, finishing 3rd in the league and securing their highest position in years. Under manager Eddie Howe, the Magpies also lifted the EFL Cup— their first major domestic silverware in seven decades. Striker Alexander Isak starred with 23 league goals, helping to power the team’s charge into the UEFA Champions League. Aston Villa also impressed, climbing steadily throughout the season to secure European qualification. Their consistent performances and tactical discipline saw them rise in ESPN’s power rankings, earning praise for squad balance and resilience. On the other end of the spectrum, Tottenham Hotspur endured a late-season collapse. Once viewed as top-four contenders, Spurs fell out of European spots altogether after a string of poor results, including a heavy 5–1 loss to Liverpool. Analysts point to squad inconsistency and depth issues as key factors behind the slump. Nottingham Forest, who had surged early in the season with eye-catching victories— including a record 7–0 win over Brighton— also faltered down the stretch. While they still managed a 7th-place finish and secured European football for the first time in nearly three decades, the steep fall from early promise raised concerns about squad durability and long-term competitiveness. The final power rankings reflect a season marked by dramatic turns in fortune. ESPN analysts noted that nearly every team experienced periods of both brilliance and struggle, underscoring the Premier League’s status as one of the most unpredictable competitions in world football. For MORE Visit:https://africa.espn.com/football/story/_/id/45167481/every-premier-league-team-reranked-man-united-spurs-forest-plummet

Real Madrid Sign Spain Defender Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth for £50mv

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago03 mins

By: Kamal Yalwa Spanish football powerhouse, Real Madrid, have officially secured the signing of Dean Huijsen from AFC Bournemouth for a fee of £50 million, after activating the 20-year-old defender’s release clause. The transfer, which will be completed at the end of the ongoing 2024/2025 season, brings to a close speculation linking the Spanish international with a host of top Premier League clubs including Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Newcastle United. Huijsen, who was born in the Netherlands and raised in Spain, has been a standout performer for Bournemouth this season, following his £12.6 million move from Juventus last summer. The talented defender has featured in 34 matches across all competitions, scoring three goals — notably against Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, and Arsenal. A statement issued by Bournemouth on Saturday read: “AFC Bournemouth can confirm that defender Dean Huijsen will join Real Madrid following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season, with the Spanish side having activated a £50 million release clause.” The 20-year-old’s impressive displays also earned him a call-up to the Spanish national team in March 2025, where he has since made his senior debut. According to reports, the £50 million transfer fee will be paid in three instalments over 18 months, with Juventus and Malaga CF — Huijsen’s former clubs — set to receive 10% and 5% of the fee, respectively, as part of previously agreed sell-on clauses. Real Madrid’s acquisition of Huijsen aligns with their ongoing strategy to invest in youth, adding the defender to a growing list of young talents at the Bernabéu, including Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Arda Güler. Bournemouth stated that they look forward to working with Huijsen for the final two matches of the Premier League season before he begins his new journey in Spain.

Premier League Rookie of the Year: Ranking the Best U19 Breakthrough Stars

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago08 mins

The PFA Young Player of the Year award, while once a fair celebration of emerging talent, no longer accurately reflects the spirit of breakthrough success. Its eligibility threshold—21 years old at the start of the season—has allowed seasoned stars like Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, and Cole Palmer to dominate the honor. The Premier League’s own version pushes the limit further, permitting players up to 23, leading to Erling Haaland lifting the award in 2022-23 at age 22. And while that’s still an improvement on 2010’s winner—24-year-old James Milner—it fails to spotlight the genuine rookies: teenagers in their first full top-flight campaign, taking their first major steps in professional football. Borrowing a page from the NBA, we’ve reimagined the award as Premier League Rookie of the Year, recognizing players who started the 2024-25 season as teenagers (under 20 on Aug. 16, 2024) and are in their first full campaign in the Premier League. Let’s rank the best of this exciting class. ❌ Who Just Missed Out Some standout young players weren’t eligible: The Top 10 Premier League Rookies of 2024-25 10. Oliver Scarles – LB, West Ham United At just 18, Scarles filled a major void in West Ham’s back line as Aaron Cresswell winds down and Emerson struggles for consistency. He shone in a defensive masterclass at the Emirates, making four tackles and seven interceptions in a memorable 1-0 win over Arsenal. Closing in on 600 league minutes, he’s a player to watch. 9. Patrick Dorgu – LB, Manchester United Thrown into a turbulent Manchester United side after a £25m January switch from Lecce, the Danish left-back quickly adapted. Amid poor team performances, his athleticism and poise offered a glimmer of hope, particularly in United’s promising Europa League run. 8. Leny Yoro – CB, Manchester United A €62m summer arrival from Lille, Yoro’s season began with a broken foot but still saw him rack up nearly 2,000 minutes. His composure, passing range, and defensive anticipation mark him as a long-term anchor in United’s backline under manager Ruben Amorim. 7. Nico O’Reilly – CM/LB, Manchester City Manchester City’s £150m January splurge made headlines, but it was academy graduate O’Reilly—deployed out of position at left-back—who quietly proved invaluable. His versatility, work rate, and attacking thrust helped City reach the FA Cup final and stay in top-five contention. 6. Archie Gray – CB/RB/CM, Tottenham Hotspur Already experienced from his Leeds United stint, Gray was tested in all areas of Spurs’ struggling side—central midfield, right-back, and even centre-back. Though he endured difficult moments, the £40m teenager showed courage and adaptability that belied his age. The Top Five 5. Tyler Dibling – FW, Southampton Despite Southampton’s relegation woes, Dibling lit up the league with fearless dribbling and dynamism. He led all rookies in metres gained per carry (7.8) and ranked second in long carries (100). Though his end product (2 goals) could improve, he stood out in a weak squad—and is now on Manchester United’s radar. 4. Ethan Nwaneri – CM/FW, Arsenal At 18, Nwaneri finally broke through after debuting at age 15. Filling in for Bukayo Saka, he tallied 9 goals and 2 assists while showcasing strength, aggression, and a lethal left foot from the right wing. With more minutes in central midfield expected next season, his future looks bright. 3. Lucas Bergvall – CM, Tottenham Hotspur Following his £8.5m transfer from Djurgården, Bergvall gradually earned his place in Spurs’ XI. His engine, intelligent passing, and composure provided a rare bright spot in an otherwise disappointing season. A key figure in the rebuild under Ange Postecoglou. 2. Myles Lewis-Skelly – LB, Arsenal Initially a central midfielder, Lewis-Skelly reinvented himself as Arsenal’s go-to left-back, displacing senior options like Zinchenko and Tierney. Logging over 2,000 minutes—including starts against Real Madrid and PSG in the Champions League—the 18-year-old thrived in a demanding hybrid role. He also scored on his England senior debut. Simply exceptional. 1. Dean Huijsen – CB, Bournemouth The clear winner. Huijsen joined Bournemouth from Juventus for just £15m and has blossomed into one of the league’s most composed ball-playing centre-backs. Ranking in the 93rd percentile for progressive carries and 87th for progressive passes among top-five league defenders, the Spain international has become a £50m-rated asset—earning interest from Real Madrid. Smartly nurtured by manager Andoni Iraola, Huijsen has made the leap from talent to transformative player. A true Rookie of the Year. This reimagined award offers a clearer lens through which to view the stars of tomorrow, today. These U19s didn’t just arrive—they adapted, excelled, and in some cases, redefined their clubs’ seasons. In a league dominated by stars, these rookies have carved out their place.

Taiwo Awoniyi in induced coma after surgery

Taiwo Awoniyi to Stay in Hospital For Another Five Days

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago02 mins

Taiwo Awoniyi is expected to stay in the hospital for another five days after having emergency surgery on an abdominal injury, Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo said Friday. The Nigeria striker had two operations to repair internal damage after he collided with a post during the 2-2 draw with Leicester in the Premier League on Sunday. He was placed in an induced coma to aid his recovery but is now awake and talking with his family, Britain’s Press Association reported. Espirito Santo said he hopes Awoniyi will be able to attend the final game of the season – against Chelsea on May 25. “He went to surgery – surgery went well,” Espirito Santo said. “He is under observation now, but he is recovering. We still have to wait for the doctors to allow visits. We are concerned but it is positive. It has been very difficult because of the concern of the injury, the situation he went through.” “I hope,” he added, “that next week he can join us and be around because he´s a wonderful boy.” Seventh-place Forest is one point off the top five in its bid for Champions League qualification and travels to West Ham on Sunday.

Osimhen Breaks Turkish Goal Record Fires Galatasaray to Cup Glory

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago02 mins

Victor Osimhen etched his name into Turkish football history on Wednesday night, scoring twice to lead Galatasaray to a 3-0 win over Trabzonspor in the Turkish Cup final. His brace took his tally to 35 goals in all competitions, breaking Mario Jardel’s 24-year record of 34 goals by a foreign player in a single season. Baris Yilmaz opened the scoring for Galatasaray in the fifth minute, but it was Osimhen who stole the show. The Nigerian striker struck in the 46th minute with a low drive, then added a second in the 63rd with a sublime curling effort to seal the club’s record 19th Turkish Cup title. Osimhen has now surpassed Jardel in Galatasaray’s all-time foreign goalscorers list, with 35 goals in just 38 games. Only seven foreign players have scored more, with Romania’s Gheorghe Hagi still leading the list with 72 goals. Galatasaray now eyes a domestic double as they face Kayserispor on Sunday. A win would secure their 25th league title and mark their fourth-ever domestic double, the last coming in the 1998–99 season.

Arsenal’s Trophy Drought Continues After Champions League Exit: What’s Next for Arteta’s Gunners?

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago02 mins

Arsenal’s 2024–25 campaign ended in heartbreak as they were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League semi-finals by Paris Saint-Germain, losing 3-1 on aggregate. The result extends the Gunners’ trophy drought under Mikel Arteta, who last lifted silverware with the club in the 2020 FA Cup. Despite dominating large parts of the tie, Arsenal were undone by clinical finishing from PSG and a heroic performance from goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Arteta, however, praised his team’s effort, stating, “I don’t think there’s been a better team than us in the competition, but we are out.” The exit has reignited debate over Arteta’s future. While critics question the lack of trophies, many supporters point to the club’s steady progress and tactical development under his leadership. Arsenal remain a competitive force in both domestic and European competitions, but are yet to turn their promise into tangible success. With the summer transfer window approaching, Arsenal now face a pivotal moment. Reinforcements, particularly in attack, will be essential if the team hopes to take the final step and finally break their silverware drought. The club’s board appears committed to Arteta’s long-term vision, signaling continued backing for the Spanish manager. As the Gunners look ahead to the 2025–26 season, the challenge is clear: convert potential into trophies and reclaim their place among Europe’s elite.

Egypt 2025: South Africa’s Amajita Condemn Flying Eagles to Third Place Match

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago03 mins

Nigeria failed to reach the final of the 18th Africa U20 Cup of Nations as a calm and composed Amajita soaked up all the pressure and intensity from the Flying Eagles, and then landed the sucker punch midway into the second half to win by the odd goal and condemn the seven-time champions to Sunday’s third-place match. The Flying Eagles started with so much intensity and muscle-flexing, butcould have done with a lot more coordination and composure in the final third as the opportunities came and went without any one being utilized. Forward Kparobo Arierhi could not get his head to a teasing cross byClinton Jephta in the 22nd minute, and then missed target from six yardswith only the goalkeeper to beat on the half-hour. Three minutes later, Thabang Mahlangu could have profited from Amajita’s first real incursion upfront when goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt missed an inswinger, but captain Daniel Bameyi spirited the ball away from goal. Arierhi, always with the chances, bundled over the bar another cross byJephta in the 37th minute, and two minutes later, after turning his marker, saw his shot diverted away from goal. On the hour mark, Nigeria lost the dependable goalkeeper Harcourt toinjury, and one minute later, substitute goalkeeper Ajia Yakub cameclose to bungling a simple cross with Kgomotso Madiba waiting for aslip. The slip came five minutes later, as Yakub again miscalculated the ballfrom a pull-out and defender Tylon Smith rose above him to head into the net. Opportunities fell to substitute Mendos Rickson and Auwal Ibrahim lateron, but the Flying Eagles could not find parity and must now play the loser of the second semi-final (between hosts Egypt and Morocco) for the bronze medals on Sunday.

Ola Aina: Offside Flag Could Have Prevented Awoniyi Injury

Fola Badmus4 months ago4 months ago03 mins

Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina has said the injury that saw teammate Taiwo Awoniyi placed in an induced coma could have been avoided if the the offside flag had gone up in time. The incident in question took place in the closing stages of Forest’s 2-2 draw against Leicester City, where Awoniyi clattered against the post. The forward finished the game despite being in significant pain and sources told ESPN he later underwent “urgent” surgery on an abdominal injury and was placed in a coma to aid recovery. Awoniyi collided with the post in an attempt to get on the end of a cross from Anthony Elanga. The winger had strayed offside in the buildup but as per protocol, the assistant referee only raised his flag once the play was done. “Anthony was miles offside. The whole world could see and so could I from where I was,” Aina told the Daily Mail. “You think ‘offside’ straight away. Surely you could just lift the flag up? Personally I liked how it was back in the day when for offside they just put it up straight away. “A simple decision and get on with the game. Having to see it out and then just see this happen … well none of this would have happened to T [Awoniyi] if the flag had just gone up would it?” In the aftermath of the game, Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis stormed onto the pitch and remonstrated with manager Nuno Espirito Santo. Forest later released a statement explaining that the owner’s emotional reaction was due to seeing Awoniyi in immense pain and his frustration at the medical staff for letting him continue the game.