Sports

Evra Claims Pogba’s Manchester United Return Was a Commercial Move

Published

2 months ago

August 29, 2024

Patrice Evra, a former Manchester United defender, has suggested that Paul Pogba’s 2016 return to the club was more about making a statement than addressing on-field needs.

Evra claimed on the *Stick to Football* podcast that Pogba’s re-signing, for a then-record £89 million, was intended to “humiliate” Sir Alex Ferguson, who had let Pogba go to Juventus in 2012 after failing to secure regular playing time under him. Evra expressed skepticism about the Glazer family’s motives behind the transfer, suggesting it was driven more by commercial interests than footballing merit.

“The club was happy because they were selling shirts, you know the kids love Pogba – it was more commercial than anything on the pitch,” Evra said. He had actually advised Pogba to consider a move to Real Madrid instead.

Despite Pogba’s mixed performances and off-field controversies during his second stint at United, Evra defended his countryman, attributing some of the issues to Pogba’s entourage and his own lack of focus. He emphasized his support for Pogba, stating, “It’s not about being a big fan of Paul Pogba, it’s about being his big brother.”

Evra also addressed criticism from pundits like Graeme Souness, who found Pogba “frustrating” due to his unfulfilled potential. According to Evra, high expectations placed on Pogba contributed to him being “exposed” in midfield.

Pogba left Manchester United on a free transfer to rejoin Juventus in 2022 after a challenging six-year second spell at the club.

Sports

CAF Confirms Morocco as Host for 2024 Women’s Champions League

Published

7 hours ago

October 16, 2024

Online Editor

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially designated Morocco as the host for the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League finals. The tournament will take place from November 9 to November 23, as announced on CAF’s official website.

Morocco previously hosted the last edition of this prestigious competition. Among the eight teams competing this year is Nigeria’s champions, Edo Queens. The current title holders are Mamelodi Sundowns from South Africa.

The tournament offers significant financial incentives, with winners receiving $400,000 and runners-up taking home $250,000.

Sports

Messi Matches Ronaldo’s Record with Hat-Trick Against Bolivia

Published

7 hours ago

October 16, 2024

Online Editor

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has equaled Cristiano Ronaldo’s record of 10 international hat-tricks after scoring three times in a dominant 6-0 victory against Bolivia in a 2026 World Cup qualifier.

In addition to his goals, the 37-year-old forward also provided two assists, showcasing his playmaking abilities. With this win, Argentina solidifies its position in the South American qualifiers, currently leading the table three points ahead of second-placed Colombia and six points clear of their arch-rivals Brazil.

On the same evening, Ronaldo’s Portugal faced Scotland in the UEFA Nations League but was held to a frustrating 0-0 draw, leaving the superstar visibly upset post-match.

Sports

Mourinho Targets Barcelona’s Ansu Fati for January Transfer to Fenerbahce

Published

7 hours ago

October 16, 2024

Online Editor

Fenerbahce manager, Jose Mourinho, is reportedly planning a January transfer move for Barcelona forward Ansu Fati. After spending last season on loan at Brighton in the Premier League, Fati, now 21, returned to Barcelona but has struggled for game time under new coach Hansi Flick.

Once considered a potential successor to Lionel Messi, Fati’s limited opportunities at Barça have fueled speculation about a possible departure. According to *AS*, Mourinho is keen to bring the Spain international to the Turkish league, offering him the chance for regular football at Fenerbahce.

Fenerbahce’s sporting director, Mario Branco, is expected to initiate discussions with Fati’s representatives soon, confident that the promise of consistent playing time will help secure the forward’s move.