After losing out in the Championship playoffs semi-finals last season, West Bromwich Albion are looking to improve their squad during the summer transfer window by providing Carlos Corberan with a new attacking talent.

Baggies targeting summer signings

The latest news out of The Hawthorns has suggested that West Brom are eager to bring in a number of new signings this summer. Moussa Diarra is the most recent name linked with a move to the West Midlands with the Baggies reportedly keen on adding the free-agent defender to their ranks this summer.

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With reinforcements at the back clearly a priority for the Baggies, the club are now set to confirm the signing of IF Brommapojkarna defender Torbjorn Heggem. The 25-year-old is set for a medical with West Brom ahead of a permanent move to the Hawthorns.

Whilst defensive recruits are clearly high on West Brom's shopping list, the club are still eager to bring in fresh faces in attack with the club set to battle their rivals for a Championship proven free agent.

West Brom move for Wednesday want-away

As first reported by Birmingham World, West Bromwich Albion are expected to challenge Birmingham City to sign Josh Windass on a free transfer. The 30-year-old's current deal with Sheffield Wednesday is set to expire on the 30th June and with talks over a new deal stalling Windass now looks set to depart Hillsborough at the end of this month.

Whilst the two Midlands outfits are among the numerous Championship sides expressing an interest in the attacker, the report from Birmingham World states that the Baggies have now made contact with the player’s representatives to gauge his level of interest in a move to the Hawthorns.

Windass has endured something of a mixed spell with the Owls but ended last season as one of Danny Rohl's most important players. The attacker scored in all three of Wednesday's final league games as the South Yorkshire outfit defied the odds to stave off relegation.

The 30-year-old may be best remembered by the Baggies' faithful from Wednesday's victory against West Brom back in April in which Windass notched the winning goal as his side ran away 3-0 winners on the day.

Rohl has been outspoken on Windass' performances this season with the Owls' boss taking the time to praise the attacker's development, telling the press:

"For Josh the last weeks were not easy, a big injury and (fitness problems) again and again."

"But I said to him he also has to take responsibility. If you want to be a good player and a strong leader on the pitch you have to show up. It makes no sense just to talk. He fought for every inch, he showed his quality."

With Coberan's side massively struggling for depth in attack, a player like Windass would be perfect for the Baggies. Able to play anywhere across the forward line including as a central striker, the 30-year-old would be a massive asset for West Brom next season.

كشف الإعلامي أحمد شوبير عن أحدث الترشيحات والخيارات المطروحة أمام النادي الأهلي لتعويض إصابة اللاعب يزن النعيمات، وتناول التفاصيل المتعلقة بأسماء اللاعبين المحتمل انضمامهم خلال الفترة المقبلة.

وقال شوبير في تصريحات عبر برنامجه الإذاعي: “بعد إصابة يزن النعيمات، هناك البديل المحتمل من الأردن، لكن هذا الكلام لست متأكدًا منه بنسبة 100%”.

وأضاف: “هناك علي علوان، لاعب جيد، وسنرى كيف ستسير الأمور، لكن البعض يرشح للنادي الأهلي لاعبًا شابًا يدعى الفخوري، يبلغ من العمر 20 سنة، ويُلقب بـ (ميسي الأردن)”.

وتابع: “اللاعب كان جزءًا من منتخب الشباب ولعب لنادي الحسين إربد، وشارك في العديد من المباريات وقدم نتائج جيدة جدًا”.

طالع أيضًا | خاص | سيد عبد الحفيظ يحسم ملف تجديد أليو ديانج مع الأهلي

وأشار: “الأمر بالنسبة له جيد، فهو يلعب في الجهة اليسرى وليس كرأس حربة أساسي، لكن علي علوان من مواليد 2000 ويبلغ حوالي 25 سنة، ويتطور بشكل جيد جدًا”.

وأوضح: “شارك اللاعب في نادي الجزيرة الأردني والحسين من إربد، ثم لعب مع الشمال والخور، ثم مع سيلنجور الماليزي، وبعدها انتقل إلى نادي الكورمة العراقي في بداية هذا الموسم”.

وأردف: “قيمته السوقية حوالي 450 ألف يورو، وشارك في 61 مباراة دولية، منها 50 كأساسي و11 كبديل، وسجل 26 هدفًا، وقدم أرقامًا جيدة”.

وأكد: “هذا الاسم مرشح، لكن لو سألت هل النادي الأهلي يتفاوض معه رسميًا؟ سأقول لك لا، لم يتفاوض الأهلي معه بشكل رسمي، لكنه من الأسماء التي يرددها الناس باستمرار”.

واختتم: “هذا الترشيح يظهر بشكل شبه دائم في قوائم النادي الأهلي، سواء من خبراء كرة القدم أو من وكلاء اللاعبين، وعلى فكرة وظيفة الوكيل لا فيها أي عيب أو حرام، لكنها أحيانًا تُستغل بشكل خاطئ من بعض الأشخاص للترويج لأنفسهم فقط”.

Asad Shafiq doesn’t figure in the squad of 35, to be led by Pakistan’s new all-format captain Babar Azam, for a series of three T20Is and two Tests in New Zealand, to be played in December-January. Mohammad Rizwan, the wicketkeeper-batsman, will be Azam’s deputy for the Tests, while legspinning-allrounder Shadab Khan has been named second-in-command for the T20Is.Apart from Shafiq, Mohammad Amir and Shoaib Malik also found their names missing from the expanded squad, with Misbah-ul-Haq, the chief selector and head coach, explaining that the team was looking to invest in youth as much as possible. Fast bowler Amad Butt, middle-order batsmen Danish Aziz and Imran Butt, and wicketkeeper-batsman Rohail Nazir, also named captain of the Shaheens team, were among the uncapped players selected.”The matches in New Zealand are critical for us as we aim to improve our T20I rankings and also gain valuable points in the ICC World Test Championship. In this background and taking into consideration recent player performances, we have selected the best available players,” Misbah said in a PCB statement. “I want to congratulate uncapped Amad Butt, Danish Aziz, Imran Butt and Rohail Nazir who have impressed the selectors with their form, technique, temperament and ability to secure places in the 35-player pool.ESPNcricinfo Ltd

“There are three major omissions from the side that toured England. Asad Shafiq has been left out due to lack of form after he managed 510 runs in his last 15 innings, including a total of 67 runs in England. Asad is an experienced batsman and I am sure he will utilise this time to work harder on his game in the domestic first-class matches so that he, like Sarfaraz Ahmed, can reclaim his form and be back in contention for the upcoming Tests against South Africa and Zimbabwe.”Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Amir are not part of the white-ball matches as for this tour we have opted to invest, develop and focus on the promising and emerging players who are likely to be available to Pakistan for all formats. We have kept faith in Mohammad Hafeez and Wahab Riaz purely on the basis of their outstanding and consistent performances as well as the value they bring to the T20I squad.”Shafiq’s exclusion is the most noteworthy takeaway from the squad. Since making his debut against South Africa in 2010, he has missed just one Test, and none of the last 72. That is the longest consecutive streak of Test matches for a Pakistan cricketer, soaring past Javed Miandad, who managed 53.An ever-present in the middle order, Shafiq has not grown into the batsman Pakistan wanted him to be, remaining a solid, reliable option in the lower middle order instead of a ruthless, high-scoring accumulator higher up. His wretched series in England in the summer was perhaps the first time in his career he met what could genuinely be called a slump, but the sense that Shafiq had plateaued for several years now appears to have forced the PCB’s hand.Babar Azam has taken over as the new full-time Pakistan Test captain•Getty Images for ECB

The dovetailing of the senior tour with the tour of the Pakistan “A” team, called the Shaheens, has meant a significant contingent on tour comprises young, promising cricketers. While the Shaheens side is primarily going to New Zealand to play against their counterparts there, the players from that side will be available to Pakistan too, which means the likes of Nazir – appointed captain of the Shaheens – Imran Butt, Aziz, Haider Ali and Abdullah Shafique could find themselves called up for senior duty over the course of the tour.While former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed travels with the team on tour, naming Rizwan as the vice-captain appears to have established the pecking order. Rizwan has enjoyed a remarkable rise in Pakistan cricket; a year ago, he had played just one Test in his career, and none in three years. Since he was included, a stellar tour of Australia and home series against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh cemented his place, before a standout series in England with both bat and behind the stumps established him as one of the first names on the Pakistan team-sheet. The vice-captaincy, given to him after just nine career Tests, merely confirms that status.Another key point of interest is the inclusion of Yasir Shah. Shah has been particularly ineffective throughout his career in the Southern Hemisphere; his average in Test cricket in Australia, South Africa and New Zealand is just under 97 runs per wicket. The inclusion of Usman Qadir and Shadab Khan means he is by no means a guaranteed starter, while the nature of the pitches Pakistan find may compel them into playing an all-pace attack anyway.Pakistan last toured New Zealand for a Test series four years ago, in 2016, with the hosts winning 2-0. Just two members from that side, Azhar Ali and Babar Azam, are guaranteed starters. The first Test takes place in Mount Maunganui on December 26, with the second being played at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on January 3.

After ending last season a safe distance from the Premier League's relegation zone, Everton are hoping to build upon their strong finish to the campaign by signing a highly sought after free agent.

Toffees target attacking reinforcements this summer

The latest rumours out of Goodison Park have centered around a number of attacking talents who could make the move to Merseyside during the window. Everton have now confirmed the signing of Marseille attacker Iliman Ndiaye, as the former Sheffield United man joins for a fee worth roughly £15m.

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Wilfried Gnonto is another name linked with the Toffees with the Leeds United winger expected to depart Elland Road this summer after his side lost out in the Championship playoff final. Everton launched a series of bids for the player back in the summer of 2023, making this return for the Italian not unexpected.

A striker also appears high on Sean Dyche's list of priorities with recent news suggesting that Everton could make a move for Chelsea wantaway Armando Broja. The Albanian has a reported price tag of £35 million which the Toffees could be inclined to meet if they are to lose the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin during the window.

With the fees associated with some of these targets appearing somewhat out of reach for Everton, the club are also looking towards the free agent market as they look set to compete for a striker who won't cost them a penny.

Everton make contact with ex-Barcelona ace's agent

As first reported by Sport Witness, Everton are one of a number of clubs talking to the representatives of Martin Braithwaite about a potential move this summer.

The outlet claims that the Toffees are joined by Leicester City and Southampton in their pursuit of the former Espanyol striker. The 33-year-old scored 22 goals last season as his side finished fourth in the Spanish second division, earning promotion back to the La Liga Santander.

Despite possessing a CV boasting spells in Denmark, France and England, Braithwaite is probably best known for his spell with FC Barcelona. The Danish striker joined the Catalan side in February 2020 in an emergency deal, going on to score 10 goals in 58 appearances during his near 18-month spell with the club.

Michael Pedersen, who mentored Braithwaite during his time at Danish outfit Esbjerg, spoke highly of the striker's move to Barcelona: “He has the tactical ability to fit into different tactical set-ups depending on the clubs he has represented in his career so far, and I know that he can play with a vision and anticipation in his game that is quite extraordinary."

Whilst Braithwaite did not manage to write himself into the history books at the Nou Camp, there is no doubt that he would be a strong addition to Dyche's side, especially since he won't cost the Toffees a penny.

He had tested negative a day ago, but then developed a fever while isolating in the team hotel in Lahore

ESPNcricinfo staff22-Nov-2020

Fakhar Zaman hits one through the off side•Getty Images

Fakhar Zaman will miss Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand, with the Pakistan batsman dropped from the touring party as a precautionary measure after developing potential Covid-19 symptoms. The PCB announced in a press release that Zaman had tested negative as recently as Saturday, but after developing a fever while isolating with the rest of the team at a hotel in Lahore, he was left out as a precautionary measure.”Fakhar’s Covid test report was received on Saturday which came out negative but today he picked up fever. As soon as his condition was reported, he was isolated from the rest of the squad in the team hotel. We are constantly monitoring his condition and remain hopeful of his quick recovery; however he is not fit to travel with the squad and as such has been withdrawn from the touring party,” Pakistan team doctor Sohail Saleem said.The practical implication of Zaman’s absence means Pakistan will need a replacement at the top of the order for the three T20Is they are scheduled to play against New Zealand; the left-handed opener is not currently a contender for a Test slot. Zaman’s international form, particularly in the shortest format, has been something of a lingering concern for Pakistan; he has scored more than 25 runs in an innings only once for more than two years.In the recent T20I series against Zimbabwe, where most of Pakistan’s batsmen made hay chasing low targets against bowling opposition that was, by international standards, less than intimidating, he managed 45 runs at an average of 15. His form in domestic T20 competitions has been vastly more impressive, he was the top scorer in the National T20 Cup, and the second highest scorer in this year’s PSL.ESPNcricinfo understands there is no chance of the player linking up with the team at a later date due to the stringent quarantine measures the touring party will need to observe upon touching down in New Zealand. They tourist will be isolated in separate rooms, not permitted to mix with each other for the fortnight to be spent in quarantine. They will be tested on the third and twelfth days of isolation. Once they return negative tests, they will not need to form a bio-secure bubble within the country, given the near-total absence of community transmission of Covid-19 in New Zealand.Pakistan will not name a replacement for Zaman. Abdullah Shafique and Haider Ali, both of whom batted in the top order at some point during the T20I series against Zimbabwe, are likely to be frontrunners to partner captain Babar Azam at the top.

Under-pressure Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag had a long conversation with Wrexham coach Phil Parkinson as they collected awards on Sunday.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

• Managers exchange views at awards ceremony
• Ten Hag eased pressure with Brenford win
• Parkinson chasing third-successive promotion

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• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Ten Hag picked up a prize at the Football Writers Association (FWA) Northern Managers Awards for leading United to win the FA Cup over arch rivals Manchester City last season. Parkinson was also honoured at the dinner for inspiring Wrexham to League One, the Red Dragons' second-successive promotion.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Ten Hag, who enjoyed a much-needed win over Brentford the day before the awards ceremony, was seated next to Parkinson, who was also celebrating after Paul Mullin had fired his side to a 1-0 win at Rotherham. And the two managers were seen deep in conversation throughout the dinner.

• WHAT TEN HAG SAID

  "I can say as I have some experience, it's not so easy to win titles, all the levels in English football are very competitive, to win a title demands huge sacrifice, sacrifice with your family but also sacrifice to get the team doing what you want," Ten Hag said in his speech. "You don't do this alone. You need good players, without good players, any manager is poor. Players can't do it without coaching so thanks also to my coaches, we did an incredible job to win this FA Cup."

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  DID YOU KNOW?

  Pep Guardiola also won a prize for retaining the Premier League title with Manchester City although the Catalan was unable to attend the ceremony, as his side were in action against Wolves. Guardiola gave an acceptance speech via video. Jurgen Klopp was honoured for leading Liverpool to win the Carabao Cup in his final season, but he was also not in attendance.

The football legacy of France is one of brilliance, inventiveness, and success. Those special French players who have transformed into World Cup heroes and Ballon d'Or winners have personified the spirit of French football.

It's safe to say that this France team certainly knows how to win, which is backed up by the fact that they've won two World Cups and two European Championships.

With that, here is the list of who we believe are the ten greatest French footballers, based on their overall impact at either club or international level during their careers…

Rank	Player	Career span
1	Zinedine Zidane	1989-2006
2	Thierry Henry	1994-2012
3	Michel Platini	1972-1988
4	Raymond Kopa	1949-1967
5	Patrick Vieira	1993-2011
6	Just Fontaine	1950-1960
7	Lilian Thuram	1991-2008
8	Olivier Giroud	2005-present
9	Kylian Mbappé	2015-present
10	Marcel Desailly	1986-2006

All stats correct as of 14th June 2024.

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10

Marcel Desailly

1986-2006

Marcel Desailly is well-known for his strength, agility and strength on the pitch. The Frenchman's career is distinguished by notable accomplishments and contributions to some of Europe's finest clubs as well as the French national team.

The defender won two Champions Leagues in 1993 and 1994, becoming one of just four players to win back-to-back European Cups with different teams. He also won Serie A titles while at Milan and also won the FA Cup in 2000 with Chelsea.

He was also a key member of the French national team, winning 116 caps and contributing significantly to the country's triumphs at Euro 2000 and the 1998 World Cup.

International caps	116
International goals	3
Clubs played for	Nantes, Marseille, Milan, Chelsea, Al-Gharafa, Qatar SC
France honours	1998 World Cup, Euro 2000

9

Kylian Mbappé

2015-present

Some of you may feel that Kylian Mbappé deserves to be higher up this list, but let's not forget that he's just 25 years of age with a large part of his career still ahead of him.

The Frenchman already has an outstanding record on the international stage, with 47 goals to his name in just 79 appearances. And he's even more lethal at club level for Paris Saint-Germain, having bagged 256 goals in 308 games. Who knows how many he'll bag for Real Madrid next season and beyond…

His achievements at such a young age are astounding. He's already got a World Cup and UEFA Nations League medal to his name internationally, as well as 14 domestic trophies. That's not including the seven Player of the Season awards he's received in France.

International caps	79
International goals	47
Clubs played for	Monaco, Paris Saint-Germain
France honours	2018 World Cup, 2021 Nations League

8

Olivier Giroud

2005-present

Olivier Giroud is a name that many may not have expected to be on this list, but that's simply because he's massively underrated.

The 37-year-old is France's record goalscorer with 57, which is a sensational achievement when you think of all the greats to have pulled on the blue jersey. He helped Les Bleus lift the World Cup in 2018 and the UEFA Nations League in 2021, and even grabbed four goals in the most recent World Cup.

At club level, he managed to lift the Champions League back in the 2020/21 season with Chelsea. His career tally sits at 283 goals and 101 assists in 708 games, which includes stints at current club AC Milan and Arsenal.

International caps	133
International goals	57
Clubs played for	Grenoble, Istres, Tours, Montpellier, Arsenal, Chelsea, Milan
France honours	2018 World Cup, 2021 Nations League

France's top international goalscorers of all time

France have had some wonderful players over the years – here are the very best goalscorers for Les Bleus…

By
Stephan Georgiou

Mar 16, 2024

7

Lilian Thuram

1991-2008

Lilian Thuram is recognised by many as one of the best defenders in football history. His career is notable for its extraordinary longevity and accomplishments at club and international level, when he demonstrated his versatility by playing at centre-back and right-back.

Throughout his playing career, Thuram represented Monaco, Parma, Juventus and Barcelona. He had great success during his tenure at Parma, where he won the 1999 UEFA Cup. The Frenchman also established himself as a world-class defender at Juventus by helping the team win several Serie A titles.

With 142 caps, he is the second-most-capped player in the French team's history. Thuram demonstrated his leadership qualities, defensive skill and capacity to step up to the plate when it mattered most during France's victories at Euro 2000 and the 1998 World Cup. Notably, the only two goals he ever scored for his nation came in the World Cup semi-final against Croatia, which helped seal France's place in the final.

International caps	142
International goals	2
Clubs played for	Monaco, Parma, Juventus, Barcelona
France honours	1998 World Cup, Euro 2000

6

Just Fontaine

1950-1960

Just Fontaine is regarded as one of the greatest attackers in football history and has a special position in World Cup history. Despite having a brief career owing to injuries, Fontaine scored a lot of goals for club and country, displaying his remarkable pace, cleverness and finishing touch.

During the 1958 FIFA World Cup in Sweden, Fontaine's most illustrious accomplishment was setting a record of scoring 13 goals in a single tournament, which is a record that still remains today.

This incredible accomplishment, which included a hat-trick in his World Cup debut and a four-goal showing against West Germany in the third-place play-off, launched him to global prominence and solidified his position as a World Cup legend.

Highlights of Fontaine's career at club level include successful seasons with Nice and Reims. He was a major factor in Reims' domestic and European accomplishments, winning several French league titles and reaching the inaugural European Cup final.

Even though Fontaine's injury ended his career at the age of 28, he had a significant impact on the game. With 30 goals in 21 games for the French national team, he retired with an outstanding scoring record.

International caps	21
International goals	30
Clubs played for	USM Casablanca, Nice, Stade Reims

5

Patrick Vieira

1993-2011

Patrick Vieira is regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation. During his playing career, Vieira stood out due to his outstanding defensive and attacking performances, as well as his ability to control the midfield.

The Frenchman's club career took off at Arsenal, where he contributed significantly to his side's accomplishments under manager Arsène Wenger. His arrival in 1996 had an instant and significant impact on the team, as he helped Arsenal win four FA Cups and three Premier League crowns, which included captaining the Invincibles in 2003/04.

Following his unforgettable time at Arsenal, Vieira went on to play for Juventus, Inter and Manchester City. He added more trophies to his collection during this time, winning an FA Cup with City and several Serie A titles with Inter before retiring in 2011.

Vieira was also an important member of the French national team, winning 107 caps and helping the team win Euro 2000 and the World Cup in 1998.

International caps	107
International goals	6
Clubs played for	Cannes, Milan, Arsenal, Juventus, Inter, Man City
France honours	1998 World Cup, Euro 2000

4

Raymond Kopa

1949-1967

Raymond Kopa was a legendary French football player renowned for his exceptional dribbling skills, playmaking talents and vision.

Real Madrid and Reims are most famously linked to Kopa's club career. He was instrumental in Reims' 1956 run to the European Cup final and their domestic victories.

Real Madrid were drawn to his skills, and he ended up being a key member of Madrid's 1957 La Liga-winning squad and went on to win three straight European Cups from 1957 to 1959.

He won 45 caps and bagged 18 goals on the international stage. His contribution to France's 1958 FIFA World Cup voyage to the semi-finals was pivotal, and it ended up being their best finish prior to winning the competition in 1998. Playing with another man on the list, Just Fontaine, at the tournament, Kopa's exploits earned him the Ballon d'Or that year, establishing himself as Europe's finest player.

International caps	45
International goals	18
Clubs played for	Angers, Stade Reims, Real Madrid

3

Michel Platini

1972-1988

Michel Platini is a legendary football player known for his amazing goalscoring ability, innovative playmaking and incredible skill as a midfielder. Platini had a successful club career, where he won multiple titles with Juventus in Italy, including the European Cup, the Coppa Italia, and Serie A. He also enjoyed success with AS Nancy and Saint-Étienne in France.

Platini had an equally remarkable international career with Les Bleus. He was the tournament's top scorer and best player at the European Championship in 1984 to help France win the tournament, scoring a record nine goals in a single tournament.

His contributions in the 1982 and 1986 World Cups saw France advance to the semi-finals in both competitions, firmly establishing his reputation as one of the all-time great French players, with 41 goals in total in his 72 caps.

International caps	72
International goals	41
Clubs played for	Nancy, Saint-Etienne, Juventus
France honours	Euro 1984

2

Thierry Henry

1994-2012

No one can dispute that Thierry Henry is one of the most legendary forwards in football history.

Henry's Premier League career at Arsenal took off, and he went on to become the team's all-time top scorer with 228 goals in all competitions. He played a major role in Arsenal's Invincibles season of 2003/04, as well as winning two Premier Leagues, three FA Cups, and four Premier League Golden Boots. After his triumph in England, he relocated to Barcelona, where he won two La Liga titles, a Copa del Rey, and the Champions League in 2009.

There's no doubting that he played with distinction for France at international level, notching 51 goals and accumulating 123 caps. His contributions to France's victories at Euro 2000 and the 1998 World Cup helped him lay the foundations for his legacy, despite the controversy during the 2010 World Cup campaign that tainted his latter years.

International caps	123
International goals	51
Clubs played for	Monaco, Juventus, Arsenal, Barcelona, New York Red Bulls
France honours	1998 World Cup, Euro 2000

1

Zinedine Zidane

1989-2006

One of the most recognisable players in football is Zinedine Zidane. Throughout his playing career, Zidane stood out for clubs like Juventus and Real Madrid, as well as the French national team, due to his skill with the ball, vision and exceptional ability to score important goals.

Zidane made a name for himself as one of the best midfielders in the world at Juventus, winning two Serie A titles in Turin. His famous volleyed goal in the 2002 Champions League final, which secured the trophy for Real Madrid, was the pinnacle of his time in the Spanish capital. His tenure at Madrid also saw him win the Intercontinental Cup and La Liga, which he also led Los Blancos to as manager.

His talent was crucial to France's success at Euro 2000 and the 1998 World Cup, emerging as a key player in both competitions. His reputation as a national hero was solidified with his two headers against Brazil in the 1998 World Cup final. Despite the controversy of his red card in the World Cup final of 2006, Zidane's contributions to the sport as a whole are not overshadowed.

International caps	108
International goals	31
Clubs played for	Cannes, Bordeaux, Juventus, Real Madrid
France honours	1998 World Cup, Euro 2000

MatériaMais Notícias

O domingo do Grêmio vai terminar de maneira tranquila. Após dias tensos e com direito a protesto da torcida, o Tricolor venceu o Ceará por 2 a 0, em duelo válido pela 20ª rodada do Brasileiro.

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+ Veja no aplicativo do LANCE! o resultado dos jogos da rodada

O experiente Diego Souza foi um dos destaques do triunfo. Na reta final da primeira etapa, ele subiu no segundo andar e abriu caminho para a vitória.

Na entrevista pós-jogo, o meio-campista não escondeu a alegria pelo resultado e deu valor ao trabalho de intertemporada.

– O mais importante foi a vitória. Fizemos o que treinamos. Tivemos 10 dias para trabalhar. Na situação que nos encontramos, há pressão. Sabíamos a dificuldade do jogo. O Tiago conhece nossa equipe, mas conseguimos envolver e fizemos um grande primeiro treino. Fizemos o dever de casa. Tem muito campeonato pela frente. Continuar nesta pegada. Temos condições de sair e, quem sabe, lá na frente pensar em algo melhor, declarou ao Premiere.

Agora, o Tricolor ganha um descanso para voltar a campo no próximo fim de semana e encarar o Flamengo.

Nottingham Forest have a huge summer ahead of them to avoid any further breach of the Premier League’s PSR rules whilst improving their squad to maintain their top-flight status.

Nuno Espírito Santo’s side endured a tricky second half of the 2023/24 campaign, especially considering a four-point deduction which plunged them into fresh relegation woes.

With the summer transfer window now open, the club will undoubtedly need to bolster their ranks if they are to build on the end of the season which saw Nuno’s side win two of their last three matches.

However, given their financial troubles, they may have to sell multiple players to cut the wage bill and give themselves a huge chance of avoiding a second PSR punishment in as many seasons.

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One player in particular must be sold, especially considering his lack of impact since his move to the East Midlands last summer.

Odysseas Vlachodimos’ stats at Forest in 2023/24

After arriving in Nottingham following a £7.7m move from Portuguese side Benfica, goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos had ambitions of becoming the club's number one despite the addition of Matt Turner just a couple of weeks prior.

The 30-year-old, who is Greece's number one, had to bide his time before making his debut for the club, failing to make a single appearance until the 2-0 win over Aston Villa in November.

His clean sheet against Unai Emery's side is his only during his time in the Premier League, with his game time decreasing massively since the turn of the year.

Vlachodimos has only featured twice under Nuno, with both starts coming in the FA Cup against Blackpool. Insteaad, January addition Matz Sels started every Premier League match after his move to the City Ground.

The former Benfica shot-stopper has since become the third choice behind Sels and Turner, failing to appear in a single matchday squad since the 2-1 defeat against Arsenal in January.

A summer move must be on the cards for the 30-year-old, with the club needing to shift his hefty wages to avoid another punishment from the Premier League for breaking their PSR rules.

Games

17

16

5

Clean sheets

2

1

1

Goals conceded

28

27

12

Save percentage

66%

59%

46%

Pass accuracy

64%

65%

79%

How much Odysseas Vlachodimos earns at Forest

A recent report from Football Insider claims that the Reds are willing to part ways with the shot-stopper this summer, hardly a surprise given his hefty wages at the City Ground.

The goalkeeper signed a four-year deal upon his move to the East Midlands, on a reported £45k-per-week, as per Capology – a huge figure given his lack of impact on Trentside.

His weekly wage of £45k-per-week sees the Greece international take home £2.3m a season, with the club needing to cut such a figure off the bill this summer.

Vlachodimos’ subsequent wage sees him earn nearly two times more than attacker Anthony Elanga, who only earns a reported £25k-per-week, despite his stellar first campaign at the City Ground which saw him register 14 goal contributions.

Whilst at the time it was seen as a brilliant piece of business signing a player of his calibre, it has, unfortunately for both parties, been a complete disaster.

Given his experience in Portugal and internationally, he certainly won’t be short of interest, with the Reds needing to cash in as soon as possible to avoid missing the June 30th PSR deadline.

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Chelsea have been busy in the transfer market this summer, selling a score of players and bringing in a host more. Business, it should be known, is far from done.

Enzo Maresca has now been welcomed as the Blues' new manager and, having now conducted his opening press conference has commented on his desire to instil "the right mentality and culture" in west London.

Todd Boehly and Co can hardly be rebuked for a lack of ambition since assuming ownership at Chelsea in 2021, but market strategy has been errant and must be streamlined if the canyon between the Blues and those at the forefront of Premier League and European football is to be narrowed.

There is much to do, but Mauricio Pochettino's efforts last term have ensured that optimism has taken root in the Stamford Bridge soil, with purposeful moves being made and the outfit's flotsam being sifted through and disposed of for financial gain.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (£30m)

Ian Maatsen (£37.5m)

Omari Kellyman (£19m)

Lewis Hall (£28m)

Marc Guiu (£5m)

Omari Hutchinson (£20m)

Tosin Adarabioyo (free)

Thiago Silva (free)

Hakim Ziyech (free)

There's an undeniable emphasis on establishing a youthful foundation, and while recent reports suggest that another teenage talent is being targeted, this one might just be the cream of the crop.

Chelsea transfer news

According to reports relayed by Football Transfers, Chelsea have made signing Stade Rennais starlet Desire Doue their top priority this summer.

The 19-year-old has been linked with most of the Premier League's heavy hitters already at this fledgling phase of his career but Chelsea – alongside Tottenham Hotspur – are now gearing up for a concerted approach toward securing his signature having held talks with representatives.

Rennes hope to make Doue their record sale, and after Manchester City signed Jeremy Doku for £55.5m last summer, this is expected to be in the ballpark of £60m.

Why Desire Doue is so sought-after

Despite his youth, Doue has established himself as a mainstay in Julien Stéphan's Ligue 1 side, having already completed 76 senior matches, scoring eight goals and adding seven assists.

Left winger

16

4

4

Central midfield

10

0

1

Attacking midfield

8

3

0

Right winger

7

0

1

Centre-forward

3

1

1

Highly versatile, Doue is silky-skilled and tactically flexible, with fluidity in his overall play and a capering sparkle to his movements that speak highly of his future presence at the top of the continental game.

It's no surprise that talent scout Jacek Kulig has already gushed over his qualities, calling him a "fantastic mix of dribbler and creator" and a "pure joy to watch".

After stepping onto the major stage during the 2022/23 campaign and starting 11 league matches, Doue played a starring role last term, scoring four goals and supplying six more across 43 matches in all competitions, starting 17 Ligue 1 fixtures – including the final eight in succession.

He is blooming into a highly-talented player, and given his breezy gait and elegance with the ball at his feet, he might be the perfect player to lift Maresca's Chelsea side to the desired level, perhaps even proving to be the west London club's own version of Jamal Musiala.

Desire Doue could be Chelsea's own Jamal Musiala

Chelsea once had Musiala in their clutches, but sold the prodigious talent to Bayern Munich when he was just 16 years old, with the bloated Cobham academy holding its fair share of potential and requiring a sacrifice.

BBC presenter Gary Lineker hailed the German's "magical" qualities during one sublime showing at Euro 2024, with Musiala evoking awe through his ball-carrying expertise.

As per FBref, he ranks among the top 16% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for shot-creating actions, the top 8% for pass completion, the top 15% for progressive carries and the top 1% for successful take-ons per 90.

Chelsea must rue the day they allowed him to waltz out of England's capital, but now they could rectify past wrongs by moving to sign Doue.

The up-and-coming Frenchman carries a similarly dynamic sheen to his skill set, ranking among the top 6% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for progressive passes and successful take-ons and the top 15% for tackles per 90.

Clearly both progressive players with a knack for wrong-footing their opponents with their slick and stylish movements into the final third, shuttling through on goal with ease.

Analyst Ben Mattinson has noted the player's semblance to Musiala's kind of profile. Simply, he's an entertainer. And while Chelsea are crafting a team with variegated options and an impressive range of talent, Doue could be the kind of player to lift Stamford Bridge's roof and offer something truly unique at the start of an exciting new project.

Mattinson has also pronounced Doue a "special talent" and it's clear to see that with apt nurturing, he could flower into one of the standout players of his position – whatever that ends up being.

In Ligue 1 last year, the teenager averaged 2.1 dribbles per game (winning 67% of his efforts). Musiala, in comparison, averaged 3.0 dribbles per match in the German Bundesliga, succeeding 60% of the time.

Doue is fast establishing himself as one of the most talented young midfielders on the continent, and while Chelsea are pushing to land a variety of teenage talents, this one could bypass such peers in west London and earn an instant place at the front of Maresca's first team.

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