## PSG's Historic Bid Hinges on Key Absences

**French giants face Tottenham in Super Cup showdown**

Paris Saint-Germain are poised to make history tonight as they take on Tottenham Hotspur in Udine for the UEFA Super Cup. A victory would etch them as the first French club to ever claim this prestigious trophy.  But Luis Enrique's squad faces some significant hurdles, with several key players unavailable for the clash. 

**Defensive Woes**

The Parisian side will be without midfielder Vitinha due to suspension. Additionally, defender Kimpembe remains sidelined while recovering from injury. Alongside him on the sidelines are Mayulu and Zabarnyi, who has only participated in one training session since his arrival.   




## PSG's Historic Bid Hinges on Key Absences

**French giants face Tottenham in Super Cup showdown**

Paris Saint-Germain are poised to make history tonight as 

UEFA Super Cup: Probable lineups for PSG vs Tottenham

## Dortmund's Midfield Scramble: Buonanotte and Chukwuemeka in Sight

The Bundesliga season looms, and Borussia Dortmund are scrambling to fill key gaps in their squad. While they've reached an agreement with Wolves striker Fabio Silva, facing competition from RB Leipzig, the club's midfield woes demand immediate attention. 

**Attacking Options on Loan?**

Dortmund have already signed Jobe Bellingham from Sunderland, but two more additions are reportedly desired for the attacking midfield and overall midfield positions.  Brighton's Facundo Buonanotte and Chelsea midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka have emerged as top targets. Both players could be brought in initially on loan, with Dortmund aiming to secure a permanent deal later.

For Buonanotte, a €25 million purchase option is reportedly being considered, but the 20-year-old Argentine is also attracting interest from Bayer Leverkusen who are demanding €45 million for a permanent transfer this summer.  

Chukwuemeka, meanwhile, is eager to return to Dortmund after a successful loan spell in the second half of last season. He has reportedly told Chelsea he's unhappy with how they treat players and no longer wants to play for them, making a return to Dortmund appealing.

**Sancho's Potential Return?**


The possibility of Jadon Sancho returning to Dortmund for a third time is also being discussed. While doubts exist within management about signing the 25-year-old again, support for his return stems from a belief that he could be a game-changer for the team.





## Dortmund's Midfield Scramble: Buonanotte and Chukwuemeka in Sight

The Bundesliga season looms, and Borussia Dortmund are scrambling to fill key gaps in thei

Borussia Dortmund pursuing both Chelsea&#8217;s Carney Chukw

Borussia Dortmund pursuing both Chelsea&#8217;s Carney Chukwuemeka and Brighton&#8217;s Facundo Buonanotte

## Donnarumma Benched: Enrique's Keeper Choice Sparks Debate

**PSG Star Left Out of Super Cup Squad**

The exclusion of Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain’s squad for the European Super Cup clash against Tottenham has sent shockwaves through the football world. The Italian goalkeeper's absence from Wednesday's match in Udine, Italy, raised eyebrows and questions ahead of the encounter.

**"I Want a Different Type of Goalkeeper" - Enrique Explains Decision**

Speaking to Sky Sport microphones, PSG manager Luis Enrique offered his reasoning behind Donnarumma’s bench time: 
 "This is my choice. I want a different type of goalkeeper."  




## Donnarumma Benched: Enrique's Keeper Choice Sparks Debate

**PSG Star Left Out of Super Cup Squad**

The exclusion of Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-G

🚨 Luis Enrique: I want a different type of goalkeeper, the 

🚨 Luis Enrique: I want a different type of goalkeeper, the choice is mine

## Corinthians Slammed With FIFA Transfer Ban

**Brazilian giants hit with sanctions over unpaid transfer fee**

FIFA officially slapped Corinthians with a transfer ban on Tuesday, preventing the club from registering new players. The punishment stems from an outstanding debt of $6.1 million (R$ 33.4 million) owed to Mexican side Santos Laguna for the January 2022 signing of defender Félix Torres.

Corinthians now faces pressure to settle the debt with Santos Laguna through a negotiated agreement. Failure to do so will result in a three-window transfer ban, effectively starting this season.

Aware of the impending sanctions, Corinthians hastily announced midfielder Vitinho last Monday. The move came after the club signed left-back Angileri earlier this year, leaving them with just two new additions for the season.  Vitinho joins from Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq after becoming a free agent. 


Torres, a 28-year-old Ecuadorian, played 52 games last season and has already featured in 25 matches this campaign, scoring once.   


## Corinthians Slammed With FIFA Transfer Ban

**Brazilian giants hit with sanctions over unpaid transfer fee**

FIFA officially slapped Corinthians with a tran

⚠️ Corinthians hit with transfer ban as FIFA makes it offici

⚠️ Corinthians hit with transfer ban as FIFA makes it official

## Augsburg: Sandro Wagner Takes the Helm in Bavarian Swabia 

FC Augsburg's preseason hasn't exactly set the world on fire, but that hasn't dampened fan excitement for a new era under charismatic coach Sandro Wagner. After years of punditry, Wagner has finally stepped onto the touchline at his hometown club, replacing Jess Thorup.  

The former striker's appointment was met with widespread enthusiasm – German football fans have long been eager to see what he could bring as a manager.  Wagner's playing career, filled with both triumphs and setbacks, might foreshadow his coaching journey. 

"It isn’t the 37-year-old’s first rodeo," reads a recent piece on the club. "He spent two years in the Munich suburbs coaching SpVgg Unterhaching. He helped the Bobsledders earn promotion to the 3. Liga at the end of the 2022/23 campaign, actually leaving just a few months before Haching knocked Enrico Maaßen’s Augsburg out in the opening round of the 2023/24 Pokal."

This time around, Wagner faces the challenge of avoiding a similar fate against his former club. He'll likely lean on the familiar 3-4-3 formation implemented by Thorup, prioritizing structure and motivation over tactical experimentation.


**A New Era for Augsburg**

The offseason saw significant changes at FC Augsburg beyond the coaching switch. Sporting Director Marinko Jurendic was replaced by Benjamin Weber, leading a fresh approach to transfers.  While still early in their tenure, new sporting directors Marc Lettau and Julian Baumgartlinger have yet to leave their mark on the squad. 

Several high-profile departures saw Dion Drena Beljo, Patric Pfeiffer, Lasse Günther, and Irvin Cardona sold for a tidy profit, while loan fees were secured for Nathanaël Mbuku and David Colina.  Incoming transfers include Burnley's Han-Noah Massengo, Troyes' Kyliane Dong, St. Pauli's Elias Saad, and Elversberg's Robin Fellhauer. 

**Camp Champions: The Standouts**

While preseason can be a fickle barometer of success, several players have emerged as early stars for Augsburg.  

* **Keven Schlotterbeck**:  The elder brother of Borussia Dortmund star Nico Schlotterbeck has proven his doubters wrong by securing a starting position in Wagner's back-three. A late bloomer who only recently found his scoring touch, Keven Schlotterbeck consistently impressed during the friendlies.

* **Han-Noah Massengo**: The Belgian midfielder has already endeared himself to fans with his smooth style of play and genuine efforts to integrate into German culture. He's a favorite amongst analysts for his potential to replicate Frank Onyeka’s success at Brentford. 

* **Steve Mounie**: After a disappointing first season, the Benin international striker seems revitalized under Wagner.  A brace against Pisa and a hat trick against FC Memmingen suggest he could be a key figure in Augsburg's attack.

**Early Struggles:**


Not everyone has impressed during preseason. 
* **Elias Saad**: The St. Pauli transfer struggled to make an impact due to injury, highlighting his history of inconsistency.

* **Henri Koudossou**: The young German prospect was loaned out again, raising questions about his future at Augsburg despite his exciting potential.

**Tactical Outlook:**


For the opening round Pokal fixture against Hallerscher FC, expect Wagner to field a strong starting lineup with some tactical adjustments to accommodate injuries and ensure a comfortable victory.  The 3-4-3 formation will likely remain in place, with focus on exploiting the strengths of Massengo and Mounie.


With a charismatic new coach at the helm and a refreshed squad, FC Augsburg enters the season brimming with optimism. It remains to be seen if Wagner's tactical nous and motivational skills can translate into tangible results, but the early signs are promising for the Bavarian Swabians.  





## Augsburg: Sandro Wagner Takes the Helm in Bavarian Swabia 

FC Augsburg's preseason hasn't exactly set the world on fire, but that hasn't dampened fan excite

Bundesliga 2025/26 Tactical Previews: FC Augsburg

## Fans Hold Fire on Protest as Ratcliffe Awaits Verdict

The Premier League's opening clash between Manchester United and Arsenal was set to be a battle both on and off the pitch. 

**Protest Postponed After Fan Survey**

A planned protest by The 1958, a prominent supporters' group, targeting minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS has been called off.  The decision came after a fan survey revealed mixed feelings about Ratcliffe's tenure so far. Nearly 26,000 fans participated in the poll. While 63% believe Ratcliffe and INEOS should be judged on their actions, a surprising 68% think they deserve more time – from Christmas to over a season – to prove themselves.

“It would be irresponsible to risk creating a situation that could result in any ‘red on red’ conflict inside or outside the stadium,” The 1958 stated in their announcement. The group emphasized unity, suggesting that rushing into action could be detrimental.

**Mixed Messages in the Red Devils' Camp**

The postponement comes amidst significant changes at Old Trafford. Ratcliffe assumed control of football operations in February 2024. Since then, he has overseen unpopular job cuts but also substantial spending, including the $100 million acquisition of Benjamin Sesko. The Glazers remain majority owners and continue to face intense criticism.

Fans will be watching closely as Ratcliffe's next moves unfold. The 1958 hinted that August 23, when a share freeze ends, could be a pivotal date in the ownership battle.

**For Now, All Eyes on the Pitch**

The focus shifts back to the field for the clash between United and Arsenal, where three points might not solve off-field issues but could at least offer some respite from the boos. As they say, it's easier to unite over goals than ownership disputes. 






## Fans Hold Fire on Protest as Ratcliffe Awaits Verdict

The Premier League's opening clash between Manchester United and Arsenal was set to be a battle both o

Why Man Utd fans call off protest for Premier League opener 

Why Man Utd fans call off protest for Premier League opener against Arsenal

## Swiss Star Lehmann Leaves Juventus After Trophy-Laden Season

Alisha Lehmann is moving on from Juventus Women after a successful season that saw her help secure both the Serie A title and the Italian Cup. The Swiss forward signed with Como Women on a permanent deal following one season in Turin.

Lehmann arrived at Juventus last July from Aston Villa, making an immediate impact. Her first appearance came against Sassuolo on the opening day of the 2024/25 season, where she scored her first Serie A goal, becoming the first Swiss player to net for Juventus in the league.  "With her debut goal against Sassuolo, Lehmann became the first Swiss player to score in Serie A for Juventus," a statement released by the club said.


She made 22 appearances in total for the Bianconere, contributing to their triumphant season.

"Alisha continued to play her part for the Bianconere as the season went on, having a hand in a campaign that ended with two trophies being won - Serie A and the Italian Cup," reads a statement from the club.  


Lehmann joins an exclusive group of players who have scored on their Juventus debut in the last four years, alongside Lineth Beerensteyn, Maelle Garbino, Valentina Bergamaschi, and Amalie Vangsgaard. 

While Vangsgaard (17) recorded more appearances from the bench than Lehmann (10), both tied with Lindsey Thomas and Chiara Beccari for the second highest number of substitute appearances in Serie A 2024/25. 





## Swiss Star Lehmann Leaves Juventus After Trophy-Laden Season

Alisha Lehmann is moving on from Juventus Women after a successful season that saw her help sec

Alisha Lehmann joins Como Women

## Red Devils Set Sights on £100M Star

Manchester United are gearing up for renewed negotiations with Brighton for Carlos Baleba. Sources indicate 'new talks' will take place this week as the club believes the 21-year-old midfielder is now "keen" on a move to Old Trafford.  

Agreement on personal terms is expected to be relatively smooth, according to Fabrizio Romano. However, securing Baleba's signature won't come cheap. Brighton are reportedly demanding upwards of £100 million for their prized asset, valuing him in the same bracket as Moises Caicedo who fetched a hefty £115 million when he joined Chelsea earlier this year.

**United's Firm Pursuit**

The Athletic's Laurie Whitwell suggests that United wouldn't be pushing so hard for Baleba if they didn't feel confident about landing him. The club has already held discussions with both the player's representatives and intermediaries at Brighton's Amex Stadium.

Whitwell also points out that INEOS, Manchester United's owners, see this summer as the optimal time to secure Baleba's transfer before other clubs enter the race and potentially drive up the price in a bidding war.  At present, United appear to be the only club seriously pursuing the Cameroonian talent.

 **Baleba Could Be the Final Piece**

United's summer window has already seen several high-profile acquisitions. 
Ruben Amorim now boasts a completely revamped attacking lineup with the signings of Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha. 


With the frontline strengthened, focus can now shift to other areas needing bolstering ahead of Amorim’s first full season in charge.  


## Red Devils Set Sights on £100M Star

Manchester United are gearing up for renewed negotiations with Brighton for Carlos Baleba. Sources indicate 'new talks' 

Romano: ‘New talks’ in coming days &#8211; United believe £1

Romano: ‘New talks’ in coming days &#8211; United believe £100m ace is now ‘keen’ on Old Trafford move

## Dortmund's Balancing Act: Can Kovac Build on Last Season's Success?

Borussia Dortmund fans have seen it all in recent years: exhilarating highs and crushing lows. After a disastrous start to the 2024/25 season under Nuri Sahin, the arrival of Niko Kovac revitalized the team, guiding them from 11th place to a crucial Champions League spot on the final day with a hard-fought victory against Holstein Kiel.

Dortmund's cup campaigns were a mixed bag. A disappointing second-round exit in the DFB-Pokal at the hands of VfL Wolfsburg contrasted with their impressive run in the Champions League, where they defeated Sporting Lisbon and LOSC Lille before falling to a 5-3 aggregate loss against Real Madrid in the quarterfinals.  

With eight wins and a single draw in their last eight matches of the season, Kovac appears to have the full backing of the club's hierarchy as he enters his first full campaign at the helm. But can Dortmund strengthen their squad enough to build on last season’s success?


## Transfers: A Balancing Act

The retention of Champions League football has undoubtedly played a crucial role in Dortmund's transfer activity this summer. Key players like Gregor Kobel, Nico Schlotterbeck, Karim Adeyemi and Serhou Guirassy remain at the club. 

However, Jamie Gittens' €56 million move to Chelsea highlights a trend:  young talent leaving for bigger clubs. Soumaila Coulibaly (Strasbourg) and Youssoufa Moukoko (Copenhagen) have also departed for a combined €12 million, while Diant Ramaj and Kjell Watjen have gone out on loan.

Dortmund's marquee signing is Jobe Bellingham, who joins from Sunderland for €30.5 million after an impressive season with 4 goals and 3 assists in 43 appearances. The 19-year-old will be hoping to follow in his brother Jude’s footsteps at the club.  Yan Couto's loan move has been made permanent, and Daniel Svensson arrives for €6.5 million after a successful six-month loan spell last season.

Despite these additions, some fans feel the window has been underwhelming. There is a noticeable lack of a talismanic player akin to Haaland or Jude Bellingham, leading to speculation about potential returns for Jadon Sancho or Carney Chukwuemeka, whose price tag has reportedly dropped to €25 million.


## Pre-Season Preparations

Following a semi-successful FIFA Club World Cup campaign, which ended in a 3-2 defeat to Real Madrid in the quarterfinals, Dortmund players enjoyed a well-deserved break before returning for pre-season on July 26th at their Brackel training ground.  They started with an impressive 8-1 victory over fourth-tier side Sportfreunde Siegen and followed it up with a 3-2 win against Ligue 1 outfit LOSC Lille.

A challenging five-day training camp in Saalfelden, Austria, was followed by a 2-1 defeat to Juventus in Mats Hummels' farewell game upon their return to Dortmund.  The club’s first competitive fixture of the season sees them face off against third-tier Rot-Weiss Essen in the first round of the DFB-Pokal on August 18th.


## Predicted Lineup: A Familiar Face

3-4-1-2: Kobel – Ryerson, Anton, Bensebaini – Couto, Gross, Nmecha, Svensson – Jobe – Guirassy, Adeyemi

New signing Jobe Bellingham is set to start from the off after a promising pre-season display. However, the injury to Niklas Sule casts a shadow over their opening fixture.  Kobel starts in goal as usual, with Julian Ryerson showcasing his versatility in a three-man defense alongside Waldemar Anton and Ramy Bensebaini.

On the flanks, Yan Couto and Daniel Svensson are expected to bring tireless energy, while Pascal Gross and Felix Nmecha form the midfield duo behind Jobe in an advanced No.10 role. 

With pre-season tactics suggesting a shift towards a double-pronged strike force, Serhou Guirassy will likely be supported by Karim Adeyemi's pace.


## Season Predictions: A Quest for Consistency

The retention of key players provides much-needed stability under Kovac, provided injuries don't derail their progress. Nico Schlotterbeck's return in late October will bolster the defense, and Guirassy's clinical finishing poses a threat to opposing defenses. 

After several tumultuous campaigns, Dortmund desperately needs a season of consistency. However, the lack of a standout star player is a concern. While a top-three finish seems realistic if they can maintain their late 2024/25 form, challenging for the Meisterschale appears unlikely at this stage.  


## Dortmund's Balancing Act: Can Kovac Build on Last Season's Success?

Borussia Dortmund fans have seen it all in recent years: exhilarating highs and crushing

Borussia Dortmund 2025/26 season preview: Transfers, pre-sea

Borussia Dortmund 2025/26 season preview: Transfers, pre-season, predicted lineup & predictions

## Garnacho Saga: Chelsea's "Stepped Up" Talks Fall Flat

The Alejandro Garnacho transfer saga continues, leaving Chelsea fans in limbo. Fabrizio Romano, the self-proclaimed "transfer guru," offered a fresh update, but it's more of the same agonizing waiting game.

**No Progress, Just Reheated Phrases:**

Romano claims Chelsea have "stepped up club to club talks" with Manchester United, indicating discussions are "not well underway."  This echoes his previous statement about Chelsea and Man U engaging in talks after agreeing personal terms with Garnacho. Essentially, there's been no tangible progress in almost a week. 

**Chelsea Plays the Waiting Game:**

Sources suggest Chelsea aims to secure a bargain by pressuring Manchester United into accepting a lower offer. They know they don't need to rush and can afford to wait, especially while Christopher Nkunku's potential sale looms. If Nkunku departs, Chelsea will need Garnacho's replacement sooner rather than later, potentially shifting the power dynamic in negotiations.

**The Deal Could Explode at Any Moment:**

While this latest update is frustratingly vague, Romano's history suggests a sudden explosion of activity could occur at any time.  Chelsea fans can only hope their patience will eventually pay off.




## Garnacho Saga: Chelsea's "Stepped Up" Talks Fall Flat

The Alejandro Garnacho transfer saga continues, leaving Chelsea fans in limbo. Fabrizio Romano, the se

Why Romano&#8217;s latest transfer update will disappoint ma

Why Romano&#8217;s latest transfer update will disappoint many Chelsea fans

## Reds Eye Center Back Amidst Transfer Chaos

Liverpool are on the hunt for a new defender after selling Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen for a hefty sum. This leaves the club light at the back, echoing a familiar situation from 2020 when Liverpool entered a season with only three center-backs, ultimately leading to a disastrous campaign plagued by injuries and defensive woes.

**Familiar Concerns Re-emerge**


The Reds seem determined to avoid repeating that mistake.  Reports indicate they are actively pursuing new signings in the center back position. Two names stand out: Marc Guehi, considered the top target if secured, and Giovanni Leoni, an 18-year-old prospect who could offer long-term value.

Leoni's potential is undeniable, but the club will be looking for a more immediate solution in the form of Guehi.


## Reds Eye Center Back Amidst Transfer Chaos

Liverpool are on the hunt for a new defender after selling Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen for a hefty sum. Th

Liverpool positioned to SIGN star as deal is confirmed

##  Could Guehi Be Chelsea's Championship Ticket?

Chelsea continue to make moves in the transfer window, with Alejandro Garnacho seemingly on his way from Manchester United. 

**Defense Woes and a Bold Prediction**

But the Blues face a defensive crisis after Levi Colwill’s ACL injury is expected to sideline him for most of the season. Manager Enzo Maresca has publicly called for a new center-back, though a move for Marc Guehi, formerly of Chelsea's youth academy, hasn't materialized yet. 

TalkSPORT pundit Adrian Durham claims that if Chelsea secure Guehi’s return from Crystal Palace, they would be unstoppable. 

“If Chelsea go and get Marc Guehi back from Crystal Palace I think Chelsea probably win the league,” he boldly stated.


**A Skeptical View**

While acknowledging Guehi's talent,  another voice questions if a single signing is enough for Premier League glory. "I still worry about our goalkeepers as well," they express. 


##  Could Guehi Be Chelsea's Championship Ticket?

Chelsea continue to make moves in the transfer window, with Alejandro Garnacho seemingly on his way from Manc

#Soccer

UEFA Super Cup: Probable lineups for PSG vs Tottenham

Borussia Dortmund pursuing both Chelsea’s Carney Chukwuemeka and Brighton’s Facundo Buonanotte