Today's top global international football news, transfers and more - 16th Jan

Catch Up On Today's Top Global International Football News.

David Escudé, Barcelona's Councillor for Sports, has expressed strong confidence in the Spotify Camp Nou as the ideal host for the 2030 FIFA World Cup final. In an interview with EFE, Escudé emphasized the venue's unmatched capacity, its ongoing transformation, and the city's undeniable appeal as key factors in favor of its selection.

The stadium, currently undergoing a major reconstruction, is Barcelona's flagship in the joint World Cup bid with Spain, Morocco, and Portugal. Escudé noted that the technical assessment by the candidacy evaluation commission had already positioned Camp Nou as a prime contender, further boosting the city’s aspirations to host the closing event of the tournament.

The Brazilian scored in the 48th minute to level the match in the Copa del Rey. Vinicius came up with goals again and when Real Madrid needed it most, as he made the 1-1 draw against Celta de Vigo in the Copa del Rey for the first time in the Copa del Rey.

Old Trafford witnessed a moment that left fans with their hands on their heads. Alejandro Garnacho, Manchester United's young prodigy, missed a gilt-edged chance against Southampton, denying his team the opportunity to take the lead in a match that promises excitement until the final whistle. Despite the miss, there's plenty of football left to play, and the Red Devils will be pushing to turn the tide.

The match between Manchester United and Southampton began with high intensity, both teams looking to impose their style of play. However, it was Garnacho who was involved in the most significant moment of the first half, though not for the reasons he would have hoped. Following a well-worked team move, the ball fell to the young Argentinian with the goal gaping. To everyone's astonishment, his shot went wide, squandering a golden opportunity to put the home side ahead.

Several lower-division clubs have requested the English Football Association (FA) to allow them to play their FA Cup matches away from home, in hopes of benefiting financially from the ticket sales of larger teams.

The proposal comes after a dramatic match between National League club Tamworth and Tottenham Hotspur, where Tamworth managed to force extra time. In the past, this situation would have seen a replay at Tottenham's home stadium, giving Tamworth the opportunity to earn 50% of the ticket revenue, which could have amounted to between £850,000 and £1 million.

In addition to the elimination of replays, the FA is considering removing extra time and deciding matches with a penalty shootout if the game is still tied after 90 minutes. This would prevent situations like the one seen in the Tamworth-Tottenham match, where Spurs, clearly the superior team, were able to bring on key players like Heung-min Son, Dejan Kulusevski, and Djed Spence during extra time.

The Brazilian will have to find a new destination after being left out of the Arab team's roster. Al Hilal coach Jorge Jesus revealed that Neymar is no longer fit for the demands of the Saudi Arabian League, so he was left out of the list of players and would have to leave the club. In view of this, there are already three teams interested in signing him: Chicago Fire and Inter Miami from MLS and Santos from Brazil.

Renowned football journalist Fabrice Hawkins has reported that the Premier League champions have reached a full agreement with the Bundesliga side for the transfer of the highly-rated 25-year-old. Marmoush, who has been in impressive form for Eintracht Frankfurt this season, is set to bolster Pep Guardiola's attacking options at the Etihad Stadium.

The deal, which is expected to be finalized in the coming days, will see Marmoush become one of the most expensive African players in Premier League history. His versatility and ability to play in multiple attacking positions make him an attractive prospect for City, who have been looking to add depth to their forward line.

The football world is holding its breath over the potential arrival of Trent Alexander-Arnold at Real Madrid. According to reports in the esteemed newspaper Marca, the England full-back's signing is practically a done deal, with only one detail yet to be ironed out: the precise timing of his arrival at the Casa Blanca. This news, if confirmed, would represent a real bombshell in the transfer market and a significant coup for the Merengues.

Trent Alexander-Arnold: a modern full-back with a winning mentality:

Trent Alexander-Arnold has established himself as one of the best right-backs in the world thanks to his exceptional performances for Liverpool. Developed in the English club's academy, the young player has shown a maturity and talent beyond his years. His speed, pinpoint crossing, vision and ability to contribute to attacks make him a fundamental player in Jürgen Klopp's system.

The Dutch striker has been living a dream life since arriving in Brazil. Memphis Depay is treated like a true world star at Corinthians of Brazil as he has revealed all the luxuries he has, which even Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo could not boast. A house in a gated community. An apartment for his agent. ARMED private security. Two armored cars with private chauffeur. 24 business class airline tickets to travel between Brazil and Europe. A private chef. A box at the Neo Química Arena.

Alexander Isak led Newcastle United to a dominant 3-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers, scoring a brace and providing an assist, while closing the gap to the Premier League’s top scorer, Erling Haaland.

Isak now has 15 goals for the season, just one behind Haaland and three shy of Mohamed Salah, who currently leads the race for the Golden Boot. The Swedish striker has been in sensational form, scoring in his last six matches and netting nine goals during that span, including two against Wolves on Wednesday.

Isak opened the scoring with an individual effort, shrugging off a defender and seeing his shot deflect off another player, wrong-footing Wolves goalkeeper José Sá and finding the back of the net. In the second half, Isak completed his brace with a clinical finish after a brilliant assist from Bruno Guimaraes, who evaded two defensive lines to set up the striker. Isak calmly slotted the ball past a stranded Sá, sealing the win for the Magpies.

The transfer market continues to deliver surprises, and a bombshell has just dropped, impacting both the Bundesliga and the Premier League. According to Fabrice Hawkins, Manchester City and Eintracht Frankfurt have reached an agreement for the transfer of Egyptian attacker Omar Marmoush for a fee of around £50 million. This move, if officially confirmed, would represent a significant outlay for the Citizens and a considerable loss for the German side, who will lose one of their most exciting players. The deal is reportedly so imminent that Marmoush will not feature in Frankfurt's Bundesliga clash against Borussia Dortmund.

This news has sent ripples of excitement and speculation through the footballing world. Marmoush, with his youth and burgeoning talent, has become a sought-after prospect for several European clubs. His explosiveness, dribbling ability, and eye for goal have established him as one of the most promising attackers in the Bundesliga. Now, the opportunity to step up to the Premier League and join a team of Manchester City's stature represents a huge leap in his career.

The Mirror has reported that the decision by Guardiola to extend his stay at the Etihad Stadium beyond the 2025-2026 season could have been a significant factor in Serra considering a separation. While specific details about the nature of the alleged marital issues have not been disclosed, sources close to the couple have indicated that the demanding nature of Guardiola's job and the constant pressure that comes with managing a top-flight football club have put a strain on their relationship.

The news of Guardiola's contract extension was met with widespread celebration among Manchester City fans, as the Catalan coach has transformed the club into a dominant force in English and European football. However, behind the scenes, it appears that the decision may have had a more personal and complex impact on Guardiola's family life.

Liverpool has slapped a hefty £75 million price tag on Uruguayan striker Darwin Núñez amid growing interest from Newcastle United.

According to Football Insider, the Reds have made it clear to the Magpies that they are unwilling to part ways with their prized asset for anything less than this substantial fee. Núñez, who joined Liverpool from Benfica in a club-record deal just last year, has shown glimpses of his immense potential but has yet to fully establish himself as a regular starter at Anfield.

Newcastle, buoyed by their recent resurgence and backed by wealthy owners, are on the lookout for a world-class striker to lead their line and help solidify their place among the Premier League elite. Núñez's blend of pace, power, and technical ability makes him an attractive target for Eddie Howe's side.

However, Liverpool are under no immediate pressure to sell and are likely to resist any offers that fall short of their valuation. The Reds see Núñez as a long-term project and believe that the 25-year-old can develop into one of the best strikers in the world.

Juan Bernabé, the former falconer for Lazio's symbol, Olympia the eagle, publicly apologized on Wednesday after posting photos of his penile implant, which led to his immediate dismissal from his position.

In a video posted on social media, Bernabé expressed his deep regret: "I must apologize for what happened, I am sorry, it saddens and embarrasses me before the Italians, and especially before the parents of the minors. I also apologize to Lazio fans who suffered because of me."

Acknowledging the impact

Bernabé also issued an apology to Lazio’s president, Claudio Lotito, who not only fired him but also criticized the Spanish falconer for his actions. "I apologize to the president of the club because he represents Lazio, not him personally, Claudio Lotito. I hope that one day, when he speaks with me, he will also show consideration for what Olympia represents for children. I did everything I could in 15 years at Lazio, and I take responsibility because I am a man, and I am here to pay the consequences," he added.

Reflecting on the situation

The 38-year-old, who has lived at Lazio's sports complex for the past 15 years, refused to leave his home until his surgical wound healed. "Talking to some friends, I shed tears, and I think it's normal. It’s a tough time, but Lazio's falconer, Juan Bernabé, is not a bad person," he explained.

According to British newspaper 'The Sun', Al-Hilal of Saudi Arabia have tabled an astronomical offer for Mohamed Salah: a two-year contract worth a staggering £65 million per year (approximately €77 million), along with a substantial signing-on bonus. This mega-money proposal is shaking up the football transfer market and casting serious doubt over the Egyptian star's future at Liverpool. The reported figures, if confirmed, would place Salah among the highest-paid footballers on the planet, potentially surpassing even other global sporting icons. 'The Sun's' report details the sheer scale of the offer, designed to entice the forward away from Anfield and into the Saudi Pro League.

The news of Al-Hilal's approach for Mohamed Salah has sent shockwaves through the football world. The sheer amount of money on offer is unprecedented and presents a complex dilemma for Liverpool, who face the very real prospect of losing one of their key players. Salah, who has enjoyed a glittering career at Anfield, now faces a major decision: remain at a club where he is adored and a pivotal figure, or accept a proposal that guarantees him an extraordinary financial windfall.

Manchester City are reportedly eyeing Juventus left-back Andrea Cambiaso as they look to bolster their squad for the remainder of the season and beyond. The Premier League champions have faced a challenging campaign, with injuries playing a significant role in their inconsistent form.

As the Citizens find themselves in a precarious position in the Champions League, speculation has intensified regarding potential January signings. According to Tuttosport, Pep Guardiola's side has set their sights on Juventus' Italian international, Andrea Cambiaso.

The 24-year-old full-back has impressed in Serie A this season, contributing two goals and two assists in 25 appearances for the Old Lady. His versatility and attacking prowess have made him a sought-after target for several top European clubs.

However, Juventus are reluctant to part ways with Cambiaso and are expected to demand a fee in excess of €50 million. The Italian giants view the young defender as a key part of their long-term plans and will only consider selling him for a significant fee.

Manchester City's interest in Cambiaso is understandable. The club has been plagued by injuries to key players this season, particularly in defense. A versatile player like Cambiaso could provide much-needed depth and quality in multiple positions.

Neymar Jr.'s impending departure from Al-Hilal has set the Saudi club's machinery in motion as they search for a high-calibre replacement. Aware of the void the Brazilian star will leave, the club's management have set their sights on a name that resonates strongly in world football: Mohamed Salah. According to reports from L’Equipe, the Egyptian maestro has become Al-Hilal's primary target to fill Neymar's shoes. This news has sparked a wave of speculation and generated considerable excitement about the Liverpool forward's future and his potential move to Saudi Arabian football.

Mohamed Salah: a superlative present positioning him at the pinnacle of world football:

Mohamed Salah, at 32 years old, is experiencing one of the best periods of his career. His performances for Liverpool have propelled him to the elite of world football, establishing him as one of the most lethal and game-changing forwards on the planet. His speed, skill, goalscoring prowess and vision make him a complete and decisive player.

While claiming he is "the best player in the world" may be debatable, it's undeniable that Salah is in exceptional form, comparable to any other leading figure in football today. His impact at Liverpool has been transformative, leading the team to significant titles and leaving an indelible mark on the club's history.

Neymar revealed that Mbappe is very irritating and that is why despite having good chemistry on the pitch he could never have a good personal relationship with him. He said this during an interview with Romario, the former Brazilian player who was world champion in 1994.

Neymar and Mbappé: A Toxic Rivalry

The relationship between Neymar Jr. and Kylian Mbappé at Paris Saint-Germain has been the subject of much speculation and media attention. What was once seen as a dream partnership has evolved into a toxic rivalry that has had a profound impact on the team's dynamics.

A Match Made in Football Heaven?

When Neymar joined PSG in 2017, it was seen as a coup for the Parisian club. Teaming up with the young and prodigious Kylian Mbappé, who arrived a year later, seemed to create a formidable attacking duo that would dominate European football for years to come. The initial chemistry between the two was undeniable, as they combined effortlessly on the pitch and celebrated goals with exuberance.

The football world is buzzing with the possibility of another major signing in Major League Soccer (MLS). According to reports from the respected French publication L’Equipe, Chicago Fire are reportedly prepared to offer Neymar Jr. a higher salary than Lionel Messi currently earns at Inter Miami. This news has sent shockwaves through the transfer market and generated huge excitement about the Brazilian superstar’s future.

An offer that redefines the MLS wage landscape:

The information from L’Equipe reveals that Chicago Fire aren't holding back in their pursuit of Neymar. The Illinois franchise are reportedly ready to break all MLS salary records, offering the Brazilian a contract that would even surpass the astronomical figures that brought Messi to Miami.

This audacious move by Chicago Fire not only represents an attempt to attract one of the biggest names in world football, but it also marks a turning point in how the MLS market is perceived. While the league has experienced consistent growth in recent years, the possibility of a player earning more than Messi, widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time, demonstrates the ambition and financial clout the competition is now achieving.

Inter Miami, the club led by Lionel Messi, announced on Wednesday that Argentine goalkeeper Óscar Ustari has signed a one-year contract extension. The 38-year-old will remain with the team through the 2025 season, continuing his role as a reserve goalkeeper and veteran presence in the squad.

Raúl Sanllehí, the club's president of football operations, praised Ustari's contributions to the team: "His experience and leadership have been valuable in our locker room over the past months of the 2024 season, and he will continue to be an asset for our club."

Ustari's long and successful career has seen him play for numerous top clubs across the globe, including Getafe in Spain, Sunderland in England, Pachuca in Mexico, and his home club Boca Juniors in Argentina. His vast experience has made him a reliable figure in the dressing room.

The Argentine goalkeeper helped Inter Miami secure the MLS Supporters' Shield last year, marking a major achievement for the club. However, the team’s playoff campaign ended early, as they were eliminated in the first round by Atlanta United.

The Major League Soccer (MLS) has seen a significant uptick in star power in recent years, with the arrival of global icons like Lionel Messi. With rumors swirling about Neymar Jr.'s potential move to the league, fans are left wondering: How does the Brazilian's potential salary compare to that of his former Barcelona teammate?

Lionel Messi's move to Inter Miami was one of the biggest sports stories of 2023. The Argentine superstar signed a lucrative contract that reportedly makes him one of the highest-paid athletes in the United States. While exact figures vary, it's estimated that Messi earns around $50 million per year. His deal includes a combination of base salary, signing bonus, and revenue sharing from various sources, such as merchandise sales and ticket revenue.

Neymar's Potential Payday

Neymar Jr., another footballing legend, has been linked with a move to the MLS for some time. Reports suggest that the Chicago Fire could be a potential destination for the Brazilian star. If these rumors prove to be true, Neymar could command a similarly hefty salary. Sources indicate that he could earn around $45 million per year, making him one of the highest-paid players in the league alongside Messi.

Guardiola showed off alleged fans who always come up to him to ask for autographs, for supposedly being the ones who sell these items for thousands of dollars. A video that went viral showed a group of alleged fans who tired Pep Guardiola because he identified them for always asking for autographs, but to sell the items. According to different reports, a shirt signed by the Spanish coach can be sold online for up to 2 thousand dollars.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) announced on Wednesday that Deportivo Riestra has been fined 20 million pesos (approximately $20,000) for including streamer Iván ‘Spreen’ Buhajeruk in their starting lineup during a 2024 Liga Profesional match. The fine is equivalent to the revenue from 1,000 general admission tickets.

In addition to the monetary penalty, the AFA has ordered the club to issue a public apology through national media, describing the incident as a “serious violation” of professional football values. The club’s head coach, Cristian Fabbiani, and ‘Spreen’ have also received formal warnings, with the action labeled as a “promotional stunt” that undermines the sport’s principles.

The Spreen controversy

The young streamer, who has no prior experience in professional football, played just 59 seconds in a 1-1 draw between Deportivo Riestra and Vélez Sarsfield on November 11. His appearance sparked widespread backlash across the football community, including fans, players, and officials.

The Argentine football world is buzzing with the potential of a historic transfer. According to reports from journalist Nacho Genovart, San Lorenzo de Almagro have reached an agreement in principle with experienced Costa Rican goalkeeper Keylor Navas. The news has generated huge excitement among the Ciclon faithful, who dream of seeing a multi-time Champions League winner guarding their net. However, the completion of the signing depends on one crucial factor: securing sponsors who can cover the goalkeeper's substantial wages.

An Elite Goalkeeper for San Lorenzo: World-Class Pedigree and Experience

Keylor Navas, with a glittering career that includes spells at clubs of the stature of Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as outstanding performances for the Costa Rican national team, represents a top-quality addition to any squad. His trophy cabinet, which boasts multiple Champions League titles, league titles, cups, and super cups, speaks volumes about his quality and pedigree.

Barcelona, in their ongoing quest to maintain competitiveness at the highest level of European football, have reportedly set their sights on a forward with considerable potential: Darwin Nunez. According to Fichajes.net, the Uruguayan attacker, currently playing for Liverpool, is on the Catalan club's radar as an option to bolster their attacking line. The Blaugrana hierarchy are not only seeking an ideal complement for Robert Lewandowski in the present but also a player capable of leading the attack in the future, when the veteran Polish striker decides to step aside.

This information generates significant anticipation within Barcelona. The potential arrival of Nunez would represent a significant investment in a young player with great potential, capable of bringing a new dimension to the team's attack. His pace, physical power, and goalscoring instinct make him an attractive profile for Barcelona's style of play.

Real Madrid's resounding defeat to FC Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup has left a deep wound within the white club. Beyond the loss of the title, the image presented by the team, especially defensively, has set off alarm bells and prompted Carlo Ancelotti to speak out. According to Fichajes.net, the Italian manager has been blunt with Florentino Perez: Real Madrid needs reinforcements, and the absolute priority is to shore up the defence.

The defensive fragility displayed during the Clasico against Barcelona was a decisive factor in the lopsided result. Individual errors, a lack of decisiveness in challenges, and vulnerability to opposing attacks highlighted the need to strengthen a line that has historically been a cornerstone of Real Madrid's success.

The White defence, once known for its solidity and hierarchy, has shown certain shortcomings in recent matches. Injuries, the physical wear and tear of some key players, and the lack of reliable alternatives have contributed to this situation. While Real Madrid has important names in defence, the lack of squad depth in this area of the pitch has become a clear problem.

Ancelotti, aware of the importance of a solid defence to compete at the highest level, has conveyed to Florentino Perez the urgent need for signings in this area. The Italian manager believes that strengthening the defence is fundamental to returning to winning ways and fighting for all the titles at stake.

Presidio Investors, a private equity firm based in Austin, Texas, has officially completed the acquisition of Hellas Verona Football Club, taking full control of the Serie A team. The announcement was made on Wednesday through an official statement from the club.

The statement confirmed that Maurizio Setti, who had been the club's owner and president for the past 13 years, has sold 100% of the club's shares to Presidio Investors. "Presidio is committed to building a new path, based on the foundation Maurizio Setti has built during his management of the club over the last 13 seasons," the statement read.

The deal, which is reported to have closed between 120 and 130 million euros, will see Italo Zanzi, an American attorney of Italian descent, assume the role of the club's new Executive Chairman. Zanzi previously served as the CEO of AS Roma between 2012 and 2016 and has held various leadership roles, including as CEO of FOX Sports Asia and Vice President of Major League Baseball (MLB).

Maurizio Setti, while stepping down as president, will continue to be involved with the club in a new role as Football Operations Advisor, providing support to the technical staff and sporting management.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have made a significant statement in the transfer market by preparing a substantial contract renewal for their talented Brazilian attacker, Matheus Cunha. According to reports in The Telegraph, the Wolves are not only looking to secure the player’s long-term future at the club but also plan to set an astronomical asking price of £83 million to ward off potential suitors. This strategic decision demonstrates the club’s confidence in Cunha’s potential and their determination to build an ambitious sporting project around him.

The news has caused a stir in the football world, particularly among those clubs that had expressed an interest in the young forward. The £83 million figure represents a virtually insurmountable barrier for most, making Cunha, at least for the time being, a key and untouchable asset for Wolverhampton.

Dani Carvajal's serious injury has triggered a crisis at Real Madrid's right-back position. While Lucas Vazquez has stepped up admirably as a starter and Fede Valverde has shown his versatility in covering the role provisionally, the lack of a natural, reliable backup is a major concern for Carlo Ancelotti. The club's sporting directors have begun urgently seeking solutions to address this deficiency, which could jeopardise their season's objectives.

In this context of need, Trent Alexander-Arnold's name has emerged as Real Madrid's primary target to bolster the right flank. The talented English full-back, whose contract with Liverpool expires in June, presents an appealing option due to his quality, potential, and future prospects. However, securing his services, especially in this winter transfer window, looks to be a complex undertaking.