## Botafogo Aims for Victory as Danilo Prepares for Debut Against Second-Place Cruzeiro

**Sunday's Brazilian Championship clash at Nilton Santos Stadium pits sixth-place Botafogo against second-place Cruzeiro.** 

Botafogo enters the match on a high note, fresh off a 2-0 victory over Bragantino in the Copa do Brasil round of 16.  While they drew 1-1 with Corinthians in their last Brasileirão outing, the Rio de Janeiro side boasts 26 points and is eager to climb the table.

Cruzeiro, however, seeks to regain its winning form after a three-game winless streak consisting of two draws and one loss against Ceará and Corinthians in the league, along with a draw against CRB in the Copa do Brasil. Despite this slump, the Minas Gerais team remains within striking distance of the league leaders, trailing Flamengo by just two points with 34 points.

**Botafogo Coach Davide Ancelotti retains the core lineup from previous matches.** The spotlight will be on midfielder Danilo, Botafogo's most expensive signing ever, who could make his official debut coming off the bench after a period of physical reconditioning.

**Cruzeiro faces its own tactical challenges with right-back Fagner sidelined due to injury.**  William steps into the starting eleven in his place. Coach Leonardo Jardim also brings back Lucas Silva, Villalba, and Matheus Pereira to the lineup.




## Botafogo Aims for Victory as Danilo Prepares for Debut Against Second-Place Cruzeiro

**Sunday's Brazilian Championship clash at Nilton Santos Stadium pits s

📋 With Danilo on the bench, Botafogo face Cruzeiro in BR 25

📋 With Danilo on the bench, Botafogo face Cruzeiro in BR 25 – see more

## Milan Closes in on Young Boys Starlet Athekame for €10M

**Swiss Right-Back Eager to Make Move to Serie A**


Milan is poised to bolster its defensive line with the acquisition of talented Young Boys right-back Zachary Athekame. The club has been locked in negotiations, aiming to secure a deal worth between €7-8m plus performance-related bonuses, ultimately reaching the targeted €10m asking price.

While the transfer isn't finalized, sources indicate the agreement is nearing completion.  


**Atekame Pushes for Move**

Young Boys initially had no pressing need to sell Athekame, but Milan's interest sparked a shift in the situation. The young defender has expressed his strong desire to join the Rossoneri, viewing this opportunity as an invaluable stepping stone in his career.

**Affordable Alternative Secures Milan's Target**


The €10m price tag for Athekame represents a significant contrast to Milan's previous pursuit of Strasbourg's Guela Doué. The French club's €30m valuation forced the Italian side to explore alternative options, leading them to Athekame as a more attainable target.



Milan's relentless efforts in securing this deal demonstrate their commitment to strengthening their squad and capitalizing on promising talent. 


## Milan Closes in on Young Boys Starlet Athekame for €10M

**Swiss Right-Back Eager to Make Move to Serie A**


Milan is poised to bolster its defensive line w

Athekame is ready for Milan move at 10m including bonus

## David Luiz Shocks Football World: Brazilian Legend Joins Cypriot Club Pafos FC

In a move that stunned fans worldwide, former Chelsea star David Luiz has chosen Cyprus as his next destination, signing with FC Pafos on a contract until 2027. This unexpected turn of events sees the Brazilian legend returning to Europe after spending time in his home country.


**David Luiz Lands in Cyprus: Fan Frenzy Erupts**

Luiz's arrival on the island was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from Cypriot supporters.  Pictures and videos quickly flooded social media, capturing the moment the 38-year-old touched down in Cyprus.

"🇧🇷🛬 David Luiz (38) has landed in Cyprus to sign for Pafos FC!" tweeted EuroFoot (@eurofootcom). 


**Champions League Dreams on the Horizon?**

Pafos FC's impressive run in the Champions League qualifiers has opened the door to a possible top-tier return. After defeating Maccabi Tel Aviv, the Cypriot champions will face Dynamo Kiev next week for a spot in the prestigious competition. Should they succeed, Luiz could find himself back on the European stage, showcasing his skills against some of the world's best teams. 


**An Unlikely Return:**

Luiz's return to Europe was considered improbable by many, with speculation suggesting he would finish his career in his homeland or perhaps explore opportunities in other leagues. This unexpected move demonstrates the enduring appeal of football and the desire for legendary players to continue competing at a high level.  





## David Luiz Shocks Football World: Brazilian Legend Joins Cypriot Club Pafos FC

In a move that stunned fans worldwide, former Chelsea star David Luiz has cho

🚨 No one saw this coming: former world star returns to Euro

🚨 No one saw this coming: former world star returns to Europe

## Milan Sets Sights on Young Boys Star Athekame

**€7 Million Offer Submitted as Rossoneri Close In on Right-Back Target**


Serie A powerhouse AC Milan appears poised to land promising young talent Zachary Athekame from Swiss club Young Boys. 

After shifting focus away from Strasbourg's Gela Doue due to cost concerns, Milan has made significant strides in securing the highly-rated right-back. The Rossoneri have been closely monitoring Athekame for some time and have now submitted an offer of €7 million to Young Boys. 

Personal terms are reportedly already agreed upon. While Athekame was also presented to Udinese and Bologna, he has expressed a clear preference for joining Milan.  The club anticipates finalizing the deal as early as tomorrow. Bonuses are expected to play a crucial role in securing the transfer.

This acquisition could benefit significantly from Igli Tare's strong existing relationship with Young Boys, a factor that may prove particularly important next week should the transfer fee be accepted. 


## Milan Sets Sights on Young Boys Star Athekame

**€7 Million Offer Submitted as Rossoneri Close In on Right-Back Target**


Serie A powerhouse AC Milan appear

Milan nearing move for Young Boys talent Zachary Athekame

## Assist Kings: Who Truly Created Chances This Season?

The dust has settled on the 24/25 season, and now it's time to analyze who truly shone when it mattered most: the assist providers. We delve into the data, examining Expected Assists (xAG) across Europe's top five leagues to reveal who excelled – or perhaps underperformed.

**Salah Reigns Supreme with Clinical Creativity**

Mohamed Salah takes the crown, topping both the xAG and actual assists charts with a commanding 14.2 xAG and an impressive 18 recorded assists. His Premier League dominance is undeniable: two assists in three separate matches, adding to his already formidable tally of 29 goals.

**Yamal's Promise Showcased Despite Barcelona Squad Depth**

Hot on Salah's heels, Lamine Yamal boasts a respectable 13.9 xAG and 13 actual assists. While his numbers might seem slightly below par, the competition for playing time within Barcelona's star-studded squad certainly played a role. His most impressive performance saw him deliver two assists in a single game against Valladolid on matchday four.

**Raphinha: A Season of High Potential and Frustration**

Barcelona's other talismanic winger, Raphinha, occupies the third spot with 12.7 xAG. However, his actual assists tally falls significantly short at 9, raising questions about decisive finishing from his teammates or perhaps a degree of imprecision in his own delivery. Regardless, this season marked a career-best for Raphinha.

**Olise's Breakout Season Exceeds Expectations**

Michael Olise, enjoying a stellar debut campaign in the Bundesliga, rounds out the podium with 12 xAG.  He managed an impressive "double-double" of 12 goals and 15 assists – three more than his expected figures. Serving alongside stars like Harry Kane undoubtedly contributed to this feat.

**Baena's Underperformance Amidst Villarreal's Attacking Prowess**

Alex Baena, now plying his trade at Atletico Madrid, completes our top five with 11.7 xAG produced during his time at Villarreal.  Despite contributing 9 actual assists and playing for the third-best attack in LaLiga, this figure represents a notable underperformance.

 **Murphy's Magic: Outperforming Expectations**

Jacob Murphy stands out as a unique case study. Despite only creating 8.9 xAG, he managed an astonishing 12 actual assists – placing him fourth among all players in Europe's top five leagues. This remarkable feat highlights the unpredictable nature of football and Murphy's ability to consistently deliver when it matters most.  






## Assist Kings: Who Truly Created Chances This Season?

The dust has settled on the 24/25 season, and now it's time to analyze who truly shone when it mattered

❗Assists, who should have done more? The top 5 (+1) of the s

❗Assists, who should have done more? The top 5 (+1) of the season 📊

##  Partey Returns to Spain: Veteran Midfielder Joins Villarreal on Two-Year Deal

**Arsenal Exit Marks Next Chapter for 32-Year-Old Ghanaian**

Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is poised for a return to Spanish football, according to reports. The 32-year-old's contract with the Gunners recently expired, leading him to seek new opportunities in LaLiga, where he will aim to secure more Champions League experience.

Multiple sources indicate that Partey will join Villarreal on a two-year deal until 2027.  Athletic journalist David Ornstein confirmed on Sunday that the player has successfully completed his medical and is expected to finalize the transfer shortly. 


This move will see Partey reunited with LaLiga after previously playing for Atlético de Madrid before his transfer to Arsenal in 2020.

**Legal Proceedings Loom:**


Despite this impending transfer, Partey faces upcoming legal proceedings. He is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on August 5th, charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.  


##  Partey Returns to Spain: Veteran Midfielder Joins Villarreal on Two-Year Deal

**Arsenal Exit Marks Next Chapter for 32-Year-Old Ghanaian**

Former Arsenal 

🚨 BREAKING: Thomas Partey set to join LaLiga side after Ars

🚨 BREAKING: Thomas Partey set to join LaLiga side after Arsenal exit

## Maddison Stunned by Another Knee Injury Blow in Newcastle Friendly

**Fresh Worry for Spurs as Key Player Stretchered Off During Preseason Match**

Tottenham Hotspur suffered a major setback on Sunday as James Maddison was stretchered off during a friendly match against Newcastle United. The English midfielder, who only entered the game late in the second half, lasted just ten minutes before collapsing in pain following a challenge. 

Heartbreaking scenes unfolded at St. James' Park as Maddison was carried off the pitch, leaving fans and teammates stunned.

Manager Thomas Frank confirmed the severity of the injury, stating: "It looks like a bad injury," adding that the incident occurred in the same knee which sidelined Maddison for a significant period last season.  This "brutal" moment leaves another question mark hanging over Tottenham's Premier League campaign as Dejan Kulusevski remains unavailable.

The club has yet to disclose a definitive timeframe for Maddison's recovery, leaving fans anxiously awaiting further updates on the star player's status. 




## Maddison Stunned by Another Knee Injury Blow in Newcastle Friendly

**Fresh Worry for Spurs as Key Player Stretchered Off During Preseason Match**

Tottenham

🚨 BREAKING: Frank confirms fresh Tottenham injury blow

## Inter Milan Stand Firm on Bisseck as Frattesi Interest Mounts

**Nerazzurri Unwilling to Part Ways with German Defender Amidst Growing Interest in Midfielder**

Inter Milan are seemingly prepared to hold onto defender Yann Bisseck this summer despite reported interest from clubs like Crystal Palace. According to Italian transfer journalist Matteo Moretto, the Nerazzurri view Bisseck as "a very important player for Chivu" and have no intention of selling him. 

Meanwhile,  attention is turning towards midfielder Davide Frattesi. While Inter are considering extending his contract, several teams have reportedly expressed interest in acquiring the Italian international.


**Potential Departures at San Siro?**

Moretto suggests that Benjamin Pavard could be a player Inter would entertain offers for, while defender Yann Bisseck remains firmly off the table. 

Inter Milan has already made significant moves this summer, bringing in new talent like Petar Sucic, Luis Henrique, and Ange-Yoan Bonny. The club has also seen departures including Aleksandar Stankovic and Tajon Buchanan, who secured decent fees for Inter.  


## Inter Milan Stand Firm on Bisseck as Frattesi Interest Mounts

**Nerazzurri Unwilling to Part Ways with German Defender Amidst Growing Interest in Midfielder

Inter Milan Not Keen To Sell Germany Star This Summer – Inte

Inter Milan Not Keen To Sell Germany Star This Summer – Interest Growing In Italy International

## Isak Tells Teammates: Liverpool Move is On!

Liverpool's pursuit of Alexander Isak intensifies as the Swedish striker reportedly informs his Newcastle teammates of his desire to join the Reds.  Despite already spending £260 million on other transfers this window, including Florian Wirtz, Liverpool remains committed to securing their top striking target.


### Isak Signals Intent 

While other forwards like Benjamin Sesko and Jonathan David have been linked with moves to Anfield, Isak has consistently been Liverpool's primary objective.  Isak's recent actions suggest a strong desire for a transfer.

He initially informed Newcastle of his unwillingness to sign a new contract, which expires in 2028. Then, he surprised manager Eddie Howe by indicating openness to leaving St. James' Park this summer.


### Missing From Preseason

Isak was absent from a preseason friendly against Celtic and declined the Asia tour due to a minor thigh injury. Reports later confirmed that Isak was training at his former club Real Sociedad. 

Now, Spanish journalist Edu Burgos reports on X (formerly Twitter) that Isak has informed both Newcastle officials and teammates of his intention to move to Liverpool.


###  Liverpool and Newcastle Set for Talks

"The player has already informed the club and dressing room of his desire to leave," writes Burgos. "This week negotiations will officially open between both entities." 

It is expected that Liverpool's initial bid will exceed £120 million.   


## Isak Tells Teammates: Liverpool Move is On!

Liverpool's pursuit of Alexander Isak intensifies as the Swedish striker reportedly informs his Newcastle teamma

Alexander Isak informs teammates of Liverpool transfer decis

Alexander Isak informs teammates of Liverpool transfer decision

## West Ham Secures Striker Duo: Callum Wilson Arrives on Free Transfer

**Experienced Forward Pens Incentive-Based Contract After Newcastle Departure**

West Ham United have solidified their attacking force with the signing of veteran striker Callum Wilson on a free transfer. The 33-year-old has completed his medical and is ready to commit to a one-year deal heavily incentivized by performance, according to reports.  

Wilson's journey takes him to east London after leaving Newcastle United following the expiration of his contract on June 30th. Despite discussions for an extended stay on revised terms, neither party could reach an agreement.


**Goalscoring Prowess and Injury Concerns**

The former England international (capped nine times) enjoyed a prolific spell at St James' Park since joining from Bournemouth in the summer of 2020, reuniting with then-Cherries manager Eddie Howe. Over his four years on Tyneside, Wilson amassed 49 goals in 130 appearances across all competitions, peaking with an impressive 18 Premier League goals during the 2022-23 season.  

However, injury setbacks plagued the latter stages of his Newcastle tenure. A back injury sustained in pre-season last July kept him sidelined for the first 15 matches of the 2024-25 campaign. Although he returned to feature in four Premier League fixtures, a hamstring injury in December forced another lengthy absence, ultimately limiting him to just one goal — against Birmingham City in the FA Cup — across 22 appearances.

**Filling the Void at West Ham**

Wilson's arrival aims to bridge the gap left by departing striker Michail Antonio, who exited the club in June following the expiration of his contract. New manager Graham Potter is actively reshaping his forward line, and Wilson brings both experience and a proven goalscoring ability — contingent on maintaining fitness — to the Hammers' attack.


This move marks a new chapter for Wilson as he seeks to regain his Premier League prominence and lead West Ham's offensive charge in the upcoming season. 


## West Ham Secures Striker Duo: Callum Wilson Arrives on Free Transfer

**Experienced Forward Pens Incentive-Based Contract After Newcastle Departure**

West H

West Ham &#39;set to sign&#39; Callum Wilson as free agent

## Captain's Century: Wanitzek Leads Karlsruhe to Victory on Milestone Day

**Karlsruhe, Germany:** Marvin Wanitzek celebrated a truly special day on the pitch today, marking his 200th game for Karlsruher SC with a dazzling performance and a crucial contribution to his team's victory.  

Wanitzek wasted no time in making the occasion memorable, setting up his club's first goal just twenty minutes into the match with a deft header following a corner kick. He then personally doubled their lead, sending the home crowd into raptures. 

The captain's early dominance seemed to set the stage for a comfortable win, but Preußen Münster had other plans. Etienne Amenyido brought them back into contention, reducing the deficit to 2-1 before halftime. In the second half, Lars Lokotsch even managed to level the score at 2-2, leaving both teams with everything to play for.

However, Lilian Egloff ensured Wanitzek's milestone day ended on a high note, scoring the winning goal just moments before the final whistle blew. The thrilling 3-2 victory represents a perfect start to the season for the 32-year-old captain and his team.




## Captain's Century: Wanitzek Leads Karlsruhe to Victory on Milestone Day

**Karlsruhe, Germany:** Marvin Wanitzek celebrated a truly special day on the pitch 

🥳 Second division star celebrates a real red-letter day

## Inter Milan's Lookman Pursuit Hits a Wall: Will Oaktree Give the Green Light?

**Nerazzurri Face Atalanta Standoff Over Nigerian Forward**


Inter Milan's bid to sign Ademola Lookman from Atalanta has hit a snag, leaving the club's pursuit of the 27-year-old forward in limbo.  After initially offering €40 million for Lookman, Inter increased their offer to €45 million, only to be met with a firm rejection from La Dea.

Now, Inter finds itself at a crossroads. While they haven't abandoned their pursuit of the Nigerian star, a further increase in the bid will likely be necessary unless Lookman pushes for a move away from the Gewiss Arena.  

**Oaktree Capital Holds the Key**


However, any escalation in Inter's offer hinges on approval from club owners Oaktree Capital.  The North American fund has already authorized significant bids for Lookman but must now decide whether to green light an even larger offer, potentially pushing the deal into uncharted territory. 



Inter Milan is eager to bolster its attacking lineup, and Lookman has emerged as a prime target. The situation remains tense as both clubs await a crucial decision that could determine the future of the talented forward.  


## Inter Milan's Lookman Pursuit Hits a Wall: Will Oaktree Give the Green Light?

**Nerazzurri Face Atalanta Standoff Over Nigerian Forward**


Inter Milan's bi

#Soccer