Author: Gabby

Omaka Anthony, a midfielder for Rivers United, has officially exited the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) club after his contract came to an end. His departure marks the conclusion of a one-season stint with the Pride of Rivers at their Port Harcourt base.

Before joining Rivers United, Anthony had a brief period with ASVO FC, a club based in Benin Republic. His return to the NPFL alongside Rivers United became a notable career highlight for the player. During his time with the team, he played a key role in securing a spot in the CAF Champions League group stage last season. His displays in continental fixtures further demonstrated his importance to the squad.

Now a free agent, Anthony is preparing to pursue fresh challenges as he looks to write the next chapter of his professional journey.

Spain’s head coach, Luis de la Fuente, has revealed which international star he would most want to bring into his squad. Speaking ahead of Spain’s second World Cup group match against Saudi Arabia in Atlanta this Sunday, De la Fuente was asked to select one player from another national team that he would hypothetically add to La Roja.

Surprisingly, the Euro 2024-winning coach chose Argentina’s Julian Alvarez over more globally recognized names like Brazil’s Vinicius Junior and France’s Kylian Mbappe. De la Fuente explained that the Atletico Madrid forward’s attributes align perfectly with his tactical philosophy.

According to a report from @AlbicelesteTalk on X, De la Fuente stated: “Which player would I sign from another national team? Julián Álvarez. He’s a fantastic player.” He elaborated further: “For my idea, he’d fit perfectly; he’d be very important. Mbappe and Vinicius are great players, but in my footballing idea, he would fit perfectly.”

The coach’s preference highlights how he values specific tactical suitability over mere star power. Alvarez, known for his versatility and work rate, seems to embody the style De la Fuente wants to implement as Spain aims for World Cup glory.

In a recent interview with talkSPORTS, former Manchester City defender Kyle Walker has openly declared his admiration for Lionel Messi, labeling the Argentine superstar as the most outstanding forward in this year’s World Cup. Walker, who played alongside some of the world’s best strikers during his tenure at Manchester City, did not hesitate to single out Messi over other elite talents such as England’s Harry Kane, France’s Kylian Mbappe, and Norway’s Erling Haaland.

Walker pointed out that Messi is frequently underestimated by critics who question his age or recent form. “People seem to write him off all the time, or say he’s getting a little bit too old,” Walker said. “But what he does with a football is scary; it shouldn’t really happen.” The English international emphasized that Messi’s skill set remains unmatched, despite the emergence of younger forwards.

Discussing the possibility of this being Messi’s final World Cup, Walker expressed hope that the Inter Miami captain could lift the trophy again. “If they retain the World Cup, what a dream that will be for him to go with,” Walker added, acknowledging the historic significance such an achievement would hold for Messi’s legacy.

Walker’s comments come as the World Cup progresses, with Messi leading Argentina’s campaign. The defender’s praise highlights the respect Messi commands among his peers, even as skeptics continue to debate his place among football’s elite.

Former Arsenal forward Ian Wright has tipped the United States to exceed expectations at the 2026 World Cup, suggesting they could advance to the final four. Speaking to FourFourTwo, the ex-England international highlighted the team’s defensive strength, midfield quality, and attacking prowess as key reasons for his bold forecast.

Wright specifically pointed out the solid backline, competent midfielders, and the goal-scoring ability of striker Folarin Balogun. The US have already made a strong impression in Group D, defeating Paraguay 4-1 and Australia 2-0 to secure a spot in the round of 32. Their final group match against already-eliminated Turkey is seen as a formality before the knockout stages.

“I believe the USA can reach the semi-finals,” Wright stated. “Their defense looks reliable, their midfield operates at a high standard, and with Balogun up front, they have a genuine goalscorer.” The co-hosts are under the guidance of manager Mauricio Pochettino, who has instilled a disciplined yet dynamic style of play.

The football world is buzzing with the news that Brazilian icon Ronaldinho is coming out of retirement at age 46. The former Barcelona and AC Milan star has inked a deal with Ravenna FC, a Serie C side in Italy. This marks his return to professional football after his last stint with Fluminense back in 2015.

Ronaldinho will be officially unveiled by the club during a special event in Miami on June 23. As part of the agreement, he also becomes a shareholder in Ravenna. The club is owned by businessman Ignazio Cipriani, who took over in 2024, and boasts former AC Milan executive Ariedo Braida as its vice-president.

In his first statement since the signing, Ronaldinho expressed his excitement: “New colors, same smile. I can’t wait to dance with the ball and create a beautiful new story with Ignazio Cipriani and the Cipriani family. Football has always been a joy for me, and I look forward to bringing that spirit to Ravenna. Let the magic begin!”

This unexpected move has captured the attention of fans worldwide, as one of the game’s most beloved entertainers prepares to grace the pitch once again.

Inter Miami has secured the services of Brazilian midfielder Casemiro on a free transfer, marking a significant addition to their squad. The former Manchester United player left Old Trafford after his contract concluded this summer.

Casemiro, currently representing Brazil at the 2026 World Cup, is set to embark on a new chapter in Major League Soccer. Renowned football transfer insider Fabrizio Romano confirmed the agreement, stating that all parties have reached a verbal understanding and are now finalizing the paperwork before an official announcement.

According to Romano, the 32-year-old is eager to play alongside Lionel Messi in Miami, highlighting the allure of the MLS project. This move brings one of the most decorated midfielders of his generation to the American league, adding immense experience and quality to Inter Miami’s roster.

In a candid assessment on Sky Sports, former England striker Jay Bothroyd has delivered a stark message to Cristiano Ronaldo: despite his illustrious career, the Portugal star will never reach the level of Lionel Messi. Bothroyd urged Ronaldo to consider stepping down from the Portugal starting eleven for the 2026 World Cup, arguing that the Al-Nassr forward cannot match the impact of his eternal rival.

Bothroyd emphasized that Ronaldo, at 41, should embrace a role as an impact substitute rather than holding a place in the starting lineup. He remarked, “I honestly think if Ronaldo’s a team player, he needs to accept being a player who comes off the bench. Will he ever do that? No, I don’t think so. That’s my point. It looks like it’s all about him, and he’s always chasing Messi. He’s never going to be Lionel Messi, but he has made the absolute most of his career.”

The comments have sparked debate, as Bothroyd acknowledged that Ronaldo’s loyal fans may disagree. However, he insisted that Ronaldo’s pursuit of Messi is futile, as the Argentine remains the benchmark for greatness. Bothroyd concluded by praising Ronaldo’s achievements but made it clear that the Portuguese star cannot replicate Messi’s magic on the world stage.