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Category: Soccer

Luka Modric Announces Departure from Real Madrid

Fola Badmus03 mins

Croatian Luka Modric, Real Madrid player, announced on Thursday his departure from the club after a historic career filled with achievements and trophies. Modric said in an official statement: “The time has come for a moment I never hoped for, but this is football, and everything in life has a beginning and an end. On Saturday, I will play my last match at the Santiago Bernabeu.” He added, “I arrived in 2012 with the desire to wear the shirt of the best team in the world and the ambition to achieve great things, but I could not have imagined what would happen next.” He continued: “Playing for Real Madrid changed my life as a footballer and as a person. I felt proud to have been part of one of the most exciting periods in the club’s history.” He added, “I would like to thank the club from the bottom of my heart, especially President Florentino Perez, my teammates, the coaches, and everyone who has helped me throughout these years. I have experienced unforgettable moments, comebacks that seemed impossible, finals, celebrations, and magical nights at the Bernabeu. We won everything, and I was extremely happy.” He continued, “But beyond the titles and victories, I also carry in my heart the love of all the Real Madrid fans. I don’t know how to describe how connected I am to you, and how much support, respect, and love I have felt and continue to feel. I will never forget every applause and every gesture of affection you have shown me.” He concluded, “I leave with a full heart, filled with pride, gratitude, and unforgettable memories. Although I won’t be wearing this shirt on the pitch after the Club World Cup, I will always be a Real Madrid fan.” The Croatian star joined Real Madrid on August 27, 2012, from Tottenham Hotspur for £30 million.

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Chelle Picks Simon, Musa, Nwabali, Ndidi, 21 Others for Unity Cup Tourney in London

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Head Coach Eric Chelle has selected rave-of-the-moment in France, Moses Simon, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, midfielder Wilfred Ndidi and forward Ahmed Musa among a total of 25 Super Eagles who will execute this month-end’s Unity Cup Tournament in London. Chelle, who admitted that “we’re looking forward to taking part in the Unity Cup as it will give us the chance to try out a few new players in different roles, helping us to strengthen our squad before the matches in September and October,” has included a number of standout Nigeria Premier Football League players in the Unity Cup houseparty. Junior Harrison Nduka, captain of the CHAN-bound Super Eagles B and of champions Remo Stars, will seek a slot in the defence that also has Semi Ajayi, Bruno Onyemaechi, Igoh Ogbu and fellow home-boys Ifeanyi Onyebuchi, Sodiq Ismaila and Waliu Ojetoye, while Papa Daniel Mustapha, Saviour Isaac and Collins Ugwueze will have to contend with Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and Chrisantus Uche in midfield. At the fore, Ahmed Musa, Adamu Abubakar and Sikiru Alimi are up against Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Cyriel Dessers, Nathan Tella, Tolu Arokodare and Kelechi Iheanacho. The Unity Cup Tournament, involving Nigeria, Jamaica, Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago, will be staged at the 17,250-capacity Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford, West London. The tournament will kick off with the first semi-final on Tuesday, 27th May as Trinidad & Tobago tackle Jamaica in the first-ever ‘Trini-Jam’ on UK soil. The following day, three-time African champions Nigeria will take on four-time African champions Ghana in the second semi-final, which will come with all the intrigues and variables of a 74-year rivalry between the two continental giants. All four teams will return on Saturday, 31st May for the grand finale, with the losers of the semi-final fixtures featuring in the third-place game, before the Final to determine The Unity Cup 2025 champions. For the friendly with Russia’s senior men team at the Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow on Friday, 6th June, Chelle has picked a total of 21 players, with captain William Ekong, fellow defenders Olaoluwa Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel, midfielders Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Raphael Onyedika, and forwards Victor Boniface and Sadiq Umar joining a number of picks from the Unity Cup cohort. SUPER EAGLES FOR UNITY CUP TOURNAMENT: Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa); Maduka Okoye (Udinese FC, Italy); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania) Defenders: Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos FC, Greece); Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England); Igoh Ogbu (SK Slavia Prague, Czech Republic); Junior Harrison Nduka (Remo Stars); Ifeanyi Onyebuchi (Enugu Rangers); Sodiq Ismaila (Remo Stars); Waliu Ojetoye (Ikorodu City) Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Frank Onyeka (Augsburg FC, Germany); Saviour Isaac (Enugu Rangers); Chrisantus Uche (Getafe CF, Spain); Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes); Collins Ugwueze (Enugu Rangers) Forwards: Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy); Kelechi Iheanacho (Middlesbrough FC, England); Simon Moses (FC Nantes, France); Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany); Cyriel Dessers (Glasgow Rangers, Scotland); Sikiru Alimi (Remo Stars); Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium); Ahmed Musa (Kano Pillars); Adamu Abubakar (Plateau United) Available for training only: Felix Agu (Werder Bremen, Germany) SUPER EAGLES FOR RUSSIA FRIENDLY: Goalkeepers: Maduka Okoye (Udinese FC, Italy); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania) Defenders: William Ekong (Al-Kholood FC, Saudi Arabia); Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce SK, Turkey); Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos FC, Greece); Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England); Igoh Ogbu (SK Slavia Prague, Czech Republic) Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Frank Onyeka (Augsburg FC, Germany); Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium); Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio FC, Italy); Chrisantus Uche (Getafe CF, Spain); Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes) Forwards: Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany); Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy); Kelechi Iheanacho (Middlesbrough FC, England); Simon Moses (FC Nantes, France); Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany); Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium); Sadiq Umar (Valencia CF, Spain)

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NFF President, Gusau, Becomes President of WAFU B

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President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON) was on Monday installed as President of the West African Football Union (Zone B). Gusau’s instalment followed the resignation of the Mr. Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, the President of the Ghana Football Association, who left the WAFU B number one seat following his election into the Executive Committee of the Confederation of African Football two months ago. WAFU B headquarters in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire reported that Gusau “enjoys strong support among the zone’s members to bring continuity and dynamism to WAFU Zone B.” Gusau has been President of the NFF since 30th September 2022, and was First Vice President of WAFU B before this fresh elevation. The instalment comes less than 24 hours after the Nigeria U20 boys, Flying Eagles, won the bronze medals at the 2025 Africa U20 Cup of Nations finals in Egypt, with a ticket to the FIFA U20 World Cup finals to boot.

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Unity Cup: Super Eagles Legends Commend Chelle’s Balanced Squad for Showdown in London

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As Nigeria prepares for the highly anticipated Unity Cup Tournament in London, two Super Eagles greats—Garba Lawal and Mutiu Adepoju—have thrown their weight behind current head coach Eric Chelle for his commendable decision to blend homegrown talents from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with established foreign professionals. Their endorsement comes as Chelle names a 25-man squad set to face off against Ghana in the semi-finals of the Unity Cup on May 28, with the tournament finale billed for May 31 at the Gtech Community Stadium in West London. Chelle’s approach evokes memories of legendary Nigerian coaches such as Clemens Westerhof, Stephen Keshi, and Bonfrere Jo, all of whom famously integrated domestic league players into the national team fabric. That tradition, which played a crucial role in Nigeria’s golden football era of the 1990s, appears to be receiving a modern-day revival. In an interview with reporters, Mutiu Adepoju—fondly remembered as “The Headmaster” for his aerial prowess—noted that Chelle’s inclusion of nine-ten NPFL players is not only strategic but inspirational for local talents. “Yes, I think it’s a good one, a good development,” Adepoju said. “Counting the number of home-based players, I could see nine—this is great for the NPFL. It’s a way of encouraging our domestic league and showing belief in the talent available at home.” When asked whether Chelle is intentionally following in the footsteps of former coaches like Westerhof and Keshi, Adepoju affirmed: “Yes, I think it’s always good. Chelle did something similar while he was coaching in Mali. It’s best to ensure the local league is encouraged—it’s very important. Adepoju also expressed optimism about Nigeria’s chances at the tournament: “Why not? They are going there to compete. If they put everything they have into it, I believe they can win.” Similarly, Garba Lawal—a versatile midfielder from Nigeria’s golden generation—hailed the squad list as a refreshing nod to player development. “It’s a good one. I believe Chelle wants to give some other people a chance to play, which is good,” said Lawal. “It’s a mix of foreign and home-based players. I hope the home-based will take advantage of this opportunity.” Lawal emphasised the significance of performance for local players in such international settings: “There aren’t too many professionals in there, so the home-based players need to showcase their talents. As a player, this is the kind of opportunity you’re looking for. When you’re called upon, you have to give your best because the coach has already done his part.” He also echoed sentiments on the historical context, saying: “People like Westerhof, Keshi, Bonfrere Jo—they all did similar things. It’s not new. This is a traditional way of bringing in the local players.” Strategic squad selection The Unity Cup is more than just another friendly tournament—it carries historical significance for Nigeria. The Super Eagles won the last two editions of the competition in 2002 and 2004. Notably, the 2004 edition saw the international debut of Obafemi Martins in a clash against Ireland. Martins would go on to become one of Nigeria’s most celebrated strikers, a testament to how impactful opportunities like the Unity Cup can be for emerging talents. Chelle seems keen to continue that legacy. His selection includes marquee foreign-based names like Moses Simon (FC Nantes), Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City), and Kelechi Iheanacho (Sevilla), balanced with standout NPFL performers such as Remo Stars’ captain Junior Harrison Nduka and Sikiru Alimi. In goal, Stanley Nwabali returns alongside Maduka Okoye and Amas Obasogie. The 2025 Unity Cup, featuring Nigeria, Ghana, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago, will serve as a platform for Chelle to assess squad depth ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers in September and October. The Franco-Malian himself acknowledged this in a recent statement: “We’re looking forward to taking part in the Unity Cup as it will give us the chance to try out a few new players in different roles, helping us to strengthen our squad.” This blend of youth and experience, domestic and diaspora, signals a strategic evolution under Chelle’s stewardship. Beyond just winning the Unity Cup, the bigger victory may lie in building a more inclusive and competitive Super Eagles squad.

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Real Madrid Beat Premier League Rivals to £50m Signing of Bournemouth Star Dean Huijsen

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Real Madrid have pulled off a major transfer coup by securing the signing of AFC Bournemouth’s breakout star Dean Huijsen, beating strong interest from Premier League clubs including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Newcastle United. The 20-year-old defender, who joined Bournemouth from Juventus for £12 million just last summer, has signed a five-year contract with the Spanish giants. The deal, reportedly worth £50 million, will see Huijsen join Los Blancos following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season. Sky Sports confirmed on Saturday morning that the contract was formally signed overnight, with Huijsen set to be available for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup. Bournemouth later confirmed the news, revealing that Real Madrid activated the centre-back’s release clause. “AFC Bournemouth can confirm that defender Dean Huijsen will join Real Madrid following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season,” a club statement read. “The Spanish side have activated a £50 million release clause.” Huijsen has been instrumental in Bournemouth’s record-breaking Premier League campaign under manager Andoni Iraola, making 30 top-flight appearances and scoring crucial goals against Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, and Arsenal. His standout performances also earned him a call-up to the Spanish national team in March. The highly rated youngster’s calm and composed style has drawn praise from pundits and former players alike. Speaking after Bournemouth’s victory at Arsenal—where Huijsen scored and was named Player of the Match—Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp said:“Everybody looks up to this young man. He’s so cool, so composed. For a 20-year-old to be playing at this level and doing what he is— that’s why he’s coveted by pretty much everybody in Europe.” Despite heavy interest from Arsenal, whose technical director Andrea Berta has been active in the market pursuing midfield targets like Martin Zubimendi and Viktor Gyökeres, the Gunners have lost out to Real Madrid in the race for Huijsen. The defender, speaking to Sky Sports amid the speculation, kept a level head:“I think I’m pretty relaxed. I’m just a chill guy. I don’t really think about it too much. I enjoy my football and enjoy myself. At the moment I’m just having fun playing football and it’s going well, so I’m really happy.” Huijsen will complete the final two games of the season with Bournemouth before making his high-profile switch to the Santiago Bernabéu, marking a remarkable rise for the young Spaniard and a major windfall for the Cherries.

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Champion League War As Manchester United Face Tottenham in Europa Final

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May 20 , 2025 – Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur will meet in an all-English UEFA Europa League final on May 21, after both clubs sealed commanding semifinal victories on Thursday night. United overturned an early deficit to defeat Athletic Club 4-1 at Old Trafford, securing a 7-2 aggregate triumph. Meanwhile, Spurs delivered a professional 2-0 win away to Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt, finishing 5-1 over two legs. The results set up the third all-English final in Europa League and UEFA Cup history. Tottenham previously featured in the inaugural UEFA Cup final in 1972, beating Wolves across two legs. In 2019, Chelsea defeated Arsenal in an all-Premier League showdown in Baku. The 2025 final will be played at San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao — the home ground of Athletic Club, adding a dramatic twist for United, who just eliminated the Basque side in the semifinals. This showdown promises a gripping conclusion to the European campaign, with both clubs eyeing continental silverware and a guaranteed spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League.

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Which Premier League teams will qualify for the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League?

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How the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League qualifying spots will be decided this season, including what Crystal Palace’s FA Cup win means for the Eagles and other Premier League sides… How eighth can still qualify for Europe and it hinges on Chelsea and Newcastle If Chelsea win the Conference League and then finish seventh and Newcastle finish inside the top six – or Chelsea finish sixth and Newcastle seventh – eighth place in the Premier League will qualify for Europe. Chelsea would enter the Europa League as Conference League winners and Newcastle’s Conference League spot for winning the Carabao Cup would be passed on, with the Magpies going into the Europa League through league position. This would mean the Premier League has 10 teams in Europe. So who could finish eighth?

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Marc Guehi Rushed to Hospital after Palace FA Cup Win

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Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi and team-mate Adam Wharton were unable to join their club’s FA Cup victory celebrations after both were rushed to hospital from Wembley Stadium. Both Guehi and Wharton featured in the starting line-up for the prestigious match at the national stadium. The Eagles clinched their first-ever major honour by triumphing over favourites Manchester City. The solitary goal of the match was netted by Eberechi Eze, 16 minutes into the game, following a brilliant counter-attack from Palace. Goalkeeper Dean Henderson made a crucial penalty save towards the end of the first half, diving low to his right to deflect Omar Marmoush’s spot-kick. There was controversy earlier in the half when Henderson could arguably have been shown a red card for handball. Captain Guehi had to be substituted 57 minutes into the game after sustaining an injury to his eye, while Wharton was taken off towards the end after blocking a Kevin De Bruyne shot with his head. Despite his injury, Guehi managed to lead his team up the iconic Wembley steps to hoist the FA Cup trophy aloft after the final whistle and celebrate on the pitch with his team-mates. However, the 24 year old was subsequently rushed to hospital in an ambulance due to fears he had fractured his eye socket, with the defender also reporting slight loss of vision. Thankfully, tests have indicated that he has not suffered a fractured eye socket, reports the Mirror. It remains uncertain whether he will be fit to participate in Palace’s final two Premier League matches of the season. Newcastle United have tracked Guehi for some time, with several transfer bids turned down last summer. The Magpies are thought to be keen to revisit a deal this year, with the defender’s contract due to expire in 12 months.

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