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  • ‘Will not compromise’: Spurs transfer blow heaps pressure on Ange as potential replacements line up

    ‘Will not compromise’: Spurs transfer blow heaps pressure on Ange as potential replacements line up

    Tottenham are reportedly lining up several possible replacements for Australian manager Ange Postecoglou as chairman Dan Levy hit back at his club’s own fans.

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    With the international break followed by the FA Cup quarter-finals providing a two-week Premier League hiatus, the British press have been highly focused on what is going on off the pitch.

    One of the key stories is Postecoglou’s future with it being no secret that the former Celtic boss is under the pump in north London.

    Spurs’ league campaign went down the drain before Christmas and they presently sit 14th on the table with 15 losses from 29 games.

    The only reason Postecoglou remains in charge is the allure of silverware.

    FA Cup and League Cup runs ended within four days of each other in February, but the Europa League persists as the great white hope to end Tottenham’s highly publicised trophy drought which dates back to 2008.

    The first leg of their quarter-final against Eintracht Frankfurt, who are third in the Bundesliga, kicks off at 5am AEST on Friday 11 April with the return bout to be played in Germany a week later.

    So while Postecoglou and his squad still have ample time to ramp up their preparations, behind the scenes plans are being made for impending doom.

    Levy released a statement on Monday on the club financial situation, which included a thinly veiled way of reading the riot act to the manager he hired in 2023, and revealed that Spurs recorded a £26.2 million loss.

    A big hit to the coffers has been the absence of Champions League football with UEFA prize money decreasing from £56.2 million to £1.3 million after Spurs’ absence from Europe during the 2023/24 season.

    “As we announce our financial results for the year to 30 June 2024, we currently find ourselves in 14th position in the Premier League, navigating what has been a highly challenging season on the pitch,” Levy said.

    “We are, however, in the quarter-finals of the Europa League. Winning this competition would see welcome silverware and mean qualification for the Champions League. We must do everything we can to support the team in these final key stages.

    “I want to thank everyone who supports us through good times and bad. We are resilient and passionate about our club. We shall aim to finish this season as strongly as we can and continue to build for success on the pitch.”

    Watching the likes of Nottingham Forest, Brighton, Fulham and even Bournemouth, who were fifth on the Premier League table before only picking up a single point in their last four games, enter the race for a Champions League berth this season must be a bitter pill for Levy to swallow.

    It is well-known that Spurs have suffered an injury crisis this campaign, but as the finances tell us, money talks and that is why Tottenham are looking at other options.

    Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola and Fulham manager Marco Silva are two names that have come up regularly in reports as potential Postecoglou replacements.

    The Tottenham hierarchy reportedly admire Spaniard Iraola’s tactical nous and see similarities in style to former Spurs manager Mauricio Pocchettino, who is now in charge of the US men’s national team, but surprisingly said in a recent interview that he would like to comeback to Spurs.

    Iraola appears gettable with a reported release clause of £10-11 million, the same as Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim had at Portuguese outfit Sporting CP.

    Meanwhile, Silva has impressed at Craven Cottage with the fourth lowest budget in the league.

    A trait that is clearly endearing to Levy given he shut down fans calls to pay up during the upcoming summer transfer window to help rejuvenate the squad.

    The Tottenham chair has long been ridiculed for his reluctance to match the spending of many of their rivals, despite earlier this year being reported as the ninth richest club in the world behind only Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal in England.

    Part of Levy’s statement on the finances was very clear that he will not change his ways in the transfer market.

    “Since opening our new stadium in April 2019, we have invested over £700 million net in player acquisitions. Recruitment remains a key focus, and we must ensure that we make smart purchases within our financial means,” Levy said.

    “I often read calls for us to spend more, given that we are ranked as the ninth-richest club in the world. However, a closer examination of today’s financial figures reveals that such spending must be sustainable in the long term and within our operating revenues.

    “Our capacity to generate recurring revenues determines our spending power.

    “We cannot spend what we do not have, and we will not compromise the financial stability of this club – indeed, our off-pitch revenues have significantly supplemented the lower football revenues this year, testament to our diversified income strategy.”

    Those other revenue streams include hosting concerts and NFL games at their stadium.

    But the financial demand for better results on the pitch place even more weight on Postecoglou’s shoulders in the coming weeks.

    If they are bundled out of the Europa League, Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi is another reportedly in Spurs’ sights.

    But a possible move would be a step down for the Italian given his side are top of Serie A and play a two-leg Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich this month.

    The first step for Tottenham however is at Stamford Bridge against London rivals Chelsea on Friday morning Australian time.

    The Blues inflicted Postecoglou his first Premier League loss when they smacked Spurs 4-1 but the Australian was still lauded for his commitment to trying to score goals and obtain a result despite being reduced to nine men,

    Times have changed massively from that honeymoon period when Spurs sat top of the league ten games into Postecoglou’s reign.

    Defeat in the first game back from the international break and Postecoglou will become the first Spurs manager to lose their first four matches against Chelsea.

    It is an unwanted slice of history he will be keen to avoid, but most importantly, he will be eager to find form in his squad in that outing as well as hosting cellar dwellers Southampton on Sunday before taking on Eintracht Frankfurt.

    For now, the “I always win things in my second year” proclamation remains alive, but the backing he receives is thinning.

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  • Every team qualified for 2026 World Cup so far as Iran books spot at North American event

    Every team qualified for 2026 World Cup so far as Iran books spot at North American event

    Iran became the second Asian side to secure their place at the 2026 World Cup after twice coming from behind to draw 2-2 with Uzbekistan in Tehran, handing organisers a likely diplomatic headache.

    Iran, the second-highest ranked AFC side in the FIFA standings, needed only a point to join Japan in qualifying for the finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

    Iran will, however, head to North America with relations strained as US President Donald Trump takes a hard line over opening new nuclear talks with Tehran.

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    SOCCEROOS: Crucial step puts Poppa’s Aussies on the brink

    The Group A leaders were made to work hard at the Azadi Stadium by upward-trending Uzbekistan, with Mehdi Taremi scoring seven minutes from time – his second of the match – to seal the point.

    “We have to thank the fans who filled the stadium today, and thank God they did not leave empty-handed,” said Iran captain Alireza Jahanbakhsh.

    Seeking to qualify for a first World Cup, Uzbekistan opened the scoring on 16 minutes through Khojimat Erkinov, before Inter Milan striker Taremi scored his first of the night shortly after half time.

    Parity lasted only one minute, with Abbosbek Fayzullaev restoring Uzbekistan’s lead.

    Again, Taremi was the man to pull his team back into the game and ultimately book a spot in North America, when he finished past goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov late on.

    Iran will be appearing at a fourth successive World Cup and seventh in all. Taremi expressed his “happiness” with the result but admitted his team had “tactical problems” after conceding twice.

    Uzbekistan remain on course for an inaugural appearance at the finals. Sitting second on 17 points, they require a win from the concluding double-header in June either away to third-placed UAE or at home to Qatar, in fourth.

    The UAE climbed to four points behind Uzbekistan following their 2-1 victory in injury time against North Korea in Riyadh, with Qatar three points further back after their 3-1 defeat to Kyrgyzstan in Bishkek.

    The top two go straight to the World Cup, with teams finishing third and fourth in the three Asian groups entering a further round of qualifying.

    Iran’s players celebrate after the FIFA World Cup 2026 Asia zone qualifiers group A football match between Iran and Uzbekistan, on March 25, 2025 in Tehran. (Photo by AFP)Source: AFP
    Iran’s players celebrate after scoring during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Asia zone qualifiers group A football match between Iran and Uzbekistan, on March 25, 2025 in Tehran. (Photo by AFP)Source: AFP

    Earlier on Tuesday, the Socceroos beat China 2-0 to boost their chances of automatic qualification, but Saudi Arabia stayed in touch in Group C with a goalless draw in Japan.

    Australia’s victory, courtesy of first-half goals from Jackson Irvine and Nishan Velupillay, left the Socceroos second in Group C on 13 points with two to play, three points ahead of Saudi Arabia with a much better goal difference. Japan are already sure to finish top.

    Australia host Japan and travel to Saudi Arabia for their final qualifiers in June, leaving the race for the second direct qualification place on a knife edge. China stay bottom on six points, but they can progress to a further qualifying stage by finishing third or fourth.

    Indonesia moved into fourth on nine points thanks to a 1-0 win over Bahrain. Oxford United forward Ole Romeny scored his second goal in as many games to give Netherlands and Barcelona great Patrick Kluivert his first victory since becoming manager.

    In Group B, Son Heung-min’s South Korea remain top and favourites to progress, but they put in another toothless performance as they were held at home for the second match in a row – this time 1-1 by Jordan.

    Iraq could have gained ground but conceded late twice to lose 2-1 to Palestine in Amman.

    One-nil down from the 34th minute, Palestine equalised two minutes from time before grabbing a winner in the 97th minute, for their first victory of the third round.

    Iraq stay third and one point behind second-placed Jordan, who are three off the summit.

    Leaders South Korea face a tricky trip to Basra in June before a final home clash against Kuwait.

    Oman are fourth on 10 points following their 1-0 win against Kuwait in Ardhiyah, with Palestine fifth and Kuwait rooted to the bottom.

    TEAMS QUALIFIED FOR THE 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP SO FAR

    USA (co-host)

    Canada (co-host)

    Mexico (co-host)

    Japan (AFC)

    Iran (AFC)

    New Zealand (OFC)

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  • Axe rumours to player rift claim: Why Ange’s Spurs plea could be his last…or end doom spiral

    Axe rumours to player rift claim: Why Ange’s Spurs plea could be his last…or end doom spiral

    The defining moment of Ange Postecoglou’s time at Tottenham has arrived.

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    Spurs host Dutch outfit AZ Alkmaar on Friday morning Australian time in the second leg of their Round of 16 tie, needing to come from behind to keep their hopes of winning a trophy alive this season after losing the first leg 1-0 in the Netherlands a week ago.

    Postecoglou’s statement back in September that “I always win things in my second year”, in reference to titles with Celtic, Yokohama F. Marinos, the Socceroos, Brisbane Roar and South Melbourne, has seemingly become a rod for his own back during his second season in north London.

    It is a quote that is brought up constantly, and when asked about it again in his match eve press conference, he passionately defended his words once again.

    “I wasn’t making anything up. I was asked the question, and I answered it,” Postecoglou explained.

    “Critics have used it for their own purposes, suggesting I’m making a bold claim, but I was stating a fact.

    “Usually in my second season, I win things.

    “That’s the whole idea. The first year is about establishing principles and creating a foundation. Hopefully, the second year is going to win things.

    “If that doesn’t happen this year, then I can’t say that anymore. What am I supposed to say? I’ve always won in the second year; I have in the past, everywhere I’ve been, but here (at Tottenham) it won’t happen.

    “Is that what people want to hear? People can twist these things, use them, and you know what, maybe we defy all the odds and we do win something.”

    With the FA Cup and Carabao Cup gone, and Tottenham sitting a lowly 13th place on the Premier League table, Postecoglou is all-in on the Europa League.

    Spurs won five, drew two and lost one of their league phase matches to avoid a playoff and gain automatic passage to the Round of 16.

    But a second poor showing in the first knockout stage would end Postecoglou’s stunning second-year streak and the knives are sharpening in preparation.

    Tottenham are winless in their past three matches in all competitions despite clearly playing better football as the cavalry returns following their injury crisis.

    Key players getting out of the medical room and back on the pitch built positivity, which was boosted by a hat-trick of league wins before an arguably unlucky 1-0 loss to Manchester City started their current winless stretch, but the discontent, that has bubbled away for several months, quickly resurfaced.

    Spurs salvage draw against Bournemouth | 01:30

    Reports from Italian outlet TuttoSport emerged this week that Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is keeping a close eye on Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi as a possible replacement for Postecoglou.

    Meanwhile, former Tottenham and England striker Jermain Defoe revealed to TalkSport that he and other coaches at Spurs in 2023 wanted now England manager Thomas Tuchel appointed instead.

    The Athletic’s Tottenham-focused podcast, ‘The View from The Lane’, spent much of their most recent episode debating whether Spurs would be more likely to win the Europa League if they moved on the Australian now.

    Former Tottenham and Barcelona striker Gary Lineker also poured fuel on the fire, suggesting on the Rest is Football podcast that Postecoglou may have had a falling out with attacking midfielder James Maddison because he started on the bench in their 2-2 draw with Bournemouth on Sunday.

    Defender Cristian Romero made his return from injury in the same game, having not played since December, but the World Cup winner increased speculation of unrest by thanking the Argentinian physiotherapists, and not Tottenham’s, on Instagram for getting him back on the park.

    But despite the huge amounts of negativity swirling about, Postecoglou is pushing ahead with trying to orchestrate a memorable comeback victory.

    Son Heung-min started on the bench along with Maddison against Bournemouth, in a call seemingly made to ensure they are fresh for this European clash.

    Romero played a little over an hour before making way for Micky van de Van, who has also returned from injury to offer Postecoglou the chance to start his preferred pairing in central defence.

    But midfielders Rodrigo Bentancur, after a third booking in the competition, and Dejan Kulusevski, foot injury, will be absent because Tottenham could not possibly have their first-choice team available at the same time this season.

    The key addition that Postecoglou is most counting on, however, is a supportive home crowd.

    Reds fall in penalty shootout to PSG | 03:28

    Tottenham fans are routinely ridiculed for their negative antics, and Postecoglou has experienced a testy relationship with the supporters.

    It was all sunshine and roses when they sat atop of the Premier League table ten games into the Australian’s maiden season at the helm.

    He was serenaded with “I’m loving big Ange instead” to the sounds of Robbie Williams’ hit Angels upon the full-time whistle after home wins, but by the end of the season, Postecoglou blasted the club’s fragility as fans pleaded for the team to lose the penultimate game of the season to eventual champions Manchester City to deny rivals Arsenal the title.

    The tension increased throughout the current campaign as Postecoglou clashed with verbally abusive fans on several occasions after disheartening losses.

    He was also met with choruses of boos instead of jubilation upon the final whistle as well as calls for his sacking on social media and talkback radio.

    But the 59-year-old has asked the faithful to channel their passion into supporting the team rather than ridiculing.

    Postecoglou believes the players need a vibrant crowd to feed off rather than becoming engulfed by an anxious one.

    “Yeah, look, again I said before, I can’t sort of dictate to people how they sort of interact, but, AZ’s crowd certainly helped them on Thursday night,” he said after the Bournemouth match.

    “We need our crowd to get behind the boys on Thursday to make it an atmosphere where maybe we lose some of that nervousness and anxiety within our game.

    “But the reality is, we as a team have to respond irrespective of the atmosphere and one may follow the other. If we start the game strong, it’ll get the place nice and loud, which will help us.”

    Utd eyes historic move from Old Trafford | 01:24

    Tottenham have undeniably been a team of moment throughout the Postecoglou era.

    When they are good, they have ran over the top of teams and piled on goals, proven by the fact only league leaders Liverpool have scored more goals than them despite such an underwhelming campaign.

    When they are poor, the reverse is true. Unable to stem any bleeding with defensive frailties causing unrest in the stands.

    An early goal would be a nightmare for Postecoglou’s side, while like Liverpool in their Round of 16 defeat to PSG in the Champions League, the fans would scarcely be able to handle the drama of a penalty shootout.

    But the reality of the situation is that the feeling of impending doom will not disappear if they can advance to the quarter-final.

    Tottenham have infamously not won a trophy since the 2008 League Cup, and their European drought dates back to the 1984 UEFA Cup, the precursor to the Europa League.

    Patience has not been Tottenham’s strong suit in the 17 years following their 2-1 triumph against Chelsea at Wembley, with Postecoglou their eighth full-time manager since Spaniard Juande Ramos, who lifted the trophy that day.

    The nerves will likely get greater if they can make it deeper into the competition, but that is far better than Postecoglou being given his marching orders.

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  • Liverpool pull off ‘one of the biggest robberies’ as star shot stopper delivers ‘greatest performance of his career’ – CL Wrap

    Liverpool pull off ‘one of the biggest robberies’ as star shot stopper delivers ‘greatest performance of his career’ – CL Wrap

    Liverpool pulled off one of the great Champions League heists with an 87th minute goal from substitute Harvey Elliott handing the Reds a 1-0 advantage after the first leg of their Round of 16 clash with PSG in Paris.

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    The hosts were dominant, taking a whopping 27 shots, ten of which were on target as well as having 72% possession but they could not find a way past Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker.

    The Brazilian was comfortably the best player on the pitch, making nine saves as he seemingly built a brick wall in front of goal.

    Arne Slot’s side meanwhile, needing only two shots, and just one on target, to secure a lead before next week’s second leg at Anfield.

    “That’s one of the biggest robberies you will ever see in football,” Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher said on CBS Sports post-match.

    “I can’t believe what I’ve just seen. PSG were absolutely outstanding. Brilliant, battered Liverpool and the last time Liverpool won this competition, Alisson Becker, the goalkeeper, made a save against Napoli in the last group game. Liverpool could have gone out if Napoli had have scored, and that’s always looked back on as a defining moment.

    “That wasn’t a save tonight. That was arguably the greatest performance of his career or certainly in a Liverpool shirt.

    “If Liverpool go on to win this competition, which they have a great chance of, that performance will be remembered for years to come.”

    Elliott ended up being a hero with the 21-year-old driving a low shot off the hand of PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma and into the far corner of the goal, only one minute after coming off the bench to replace superstar Mohamed Salah.

    Alisson blasted a long ball forward, Darwin Nunez knocked it down and regathered before playing it out to Elliott, who was charging forward and buried the chance with his first touch.

    The substitution clearly turned out to be a stroke of genius from Slot as Salah had a very quiet night by his lofty standards, but the Egyptian was not helped by the fact the Premier League leaders struggled to get their counter attack going.

    The home fans at the Parc des Princes were simply baffled that their team was unable to find a goal, as despite Alisson’s brilliance, they were made to pay for several wasted opportunities.

    Ousmane Dembele was simply electric early as he could have set up PSG’s first with an exquisite piece of dribbling down the right wing before finding Joao Neves in the box but the Portuguese midfielder bounced at a fairly open goal over the crossbar.

    The chances kept coming in the opening 20 minutes as PSG dominated.

    A deflected Dembele shot went wide much to Liverpool’s relief, but the hosts thought they had the lead when Khvicka Kvaratskhelia curled a stunner into the far corner of the net.

    The Parisian celebrations were short-lived however as VAR stepped in, ruling that the Georgian has been offside by barely the length of hit boot in the build up.

    It was then unbelievable how PSG did not score on the half-hour mark as Alisson charged off his line to stop another Dembele shot one-on-one but the ball could only spill towards Fabian Ruiz.

    But the Reds got back in time to set up a barricade in front of goal, attacking midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai retreated to blocking Ruiz’s shot before Bradley Barcola sprayed another shot over the bar.

    After half time the near misses continued with Alisson completing yet another superb save off another Dembele shot in the 84th minute after also stopping a Desire Doue shot after he came off the bench, and even making a miraculous save despite the offside flag being raised among his highlight reel.

    – 10-men Barca get the job done –

    In Portugal, Barcelona were down to ten men after 22 minutes but still managed to secure a 1-0 victory against Benfica.

    Centre back Pau Cubarsi was shown a straight red card for bringing down striker Vangelis Pavlidis just outside the penalty area.

    But it was a Benfica defensive blunder to proved most costly.

    Antonio Silva coughed up the ball to Raphinha in his own half and the Brazilian pounced, bursting past his opponents and finishing calmly in the bottom right corner once he made it to the edge of the box.

    The hosts had the better of much of the game, having 26 shots to ten, eight on target compared to five.

    It is the most amount of shots Benfica have recorded in a Champions League match without scoring, but Barcelona managed to stay firm to ensure they take a lead into the second leg at home.

    They also extended their unbeaten run in the competition to eight matches, seven wins and a draw.

    – Bayern clinical as consistent Kane reaches impressive mark again –

    Bayern Munich had no such troubles, claiming a 3-0 win in an all-German clash with Bayer Leverkusen at the Allianz Arena.

    Harry Kane unleashed a powerful header to open the scoring in the ninth minute for Bayern, finding the back of the net for the 30th time this season in all competitions.

    It is the third straight season that Kane has reached that feat, two in Munich and one at Tottenham, and he also boasts ten assists this campaign.

    Jamal Musiala scored Bayern’s second in the 54th minute after a cross created a scramble in the box before the midfielder could tap it home.

    Hopes of a Leverkusen comeback were later dashed as they were reduced to ten men in the 62nd minute with defender Nordi Mukiele shown a second yellow card for a late challenge and given his marching orders.

    Kane then sunk another blow, converting a penalty with 15 minutes remaining to secure a brace.

    Bayern did not come out of the clash without any concerns however, as almost on the hour mark, goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who made his 150th Champions League appearance, was subbed off with an injury concern.

    – Inter’s strike force seize control –

    Inter Milan’s powerful strike duo of Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez combined to give the Italians a handy 2-0 advantage over Dutch side Feyenoord after an absorbing Champions League last-16 first leg Wednesday.

    Quality finishes either side of half-time from the French and Argentinian strikers proved the difference between the two teams, who meet again in Milan for Tuesday’s second leg, with the winner of the Bayern Munich-Bayer Leverkusen German derby lying in wait.

    A lively opening quarter in Rotterdam’s ever-atmospheric De Kuip saw three-time European champions Inter enjoy most possession but Feyenoord carve out the clearest opportunities.

    Ibrahim Osman, the pacy 20-year-old Ghana international winger on loan from Premier League side Brighton and Hove Albion, was the main threat for the hosts, twice forcing Josep Martinez into sharp saves.

    For the visitors, Thuram found himself with a clear run at goal but decided to pass square rather than shoot and the danger was snuffed out.

    It was a moment of quality from the French striker that broke the deadlock with just eight minutes until the half-time whistle, latching onto a curling cross from Nicolo Barella to hook it in with the outside of his boot at the far post.

    The goal, slightly against the run of play, galvanised the Serie A side, who suddenly looked much more dangerous going forward.

    Feyenoord legend and recently installed manager Robin van Persie would have been glad to get his side into the dressing room just 1-0 down after an entertaining first half.

    But his side’s arrears doubled just five minutes into the second period, as Martinez drilled an unstoppable shot into the top corner, giving the hosts a mountain to climb.

    Jakub Moder came close to getting Feyenoord back into the game when his lunging deflection skimmed the bar.

    Inter had their own chance to put the game — and probably the tie — beyond reach when Jeyland Mitchell brought down Thuram in the box, the referee awarding a penalty after a long VAR check.

    But Timon Wellenreuther in the Feyenoord goal produced an excellent save from Piotr Zielinski’s penalty, moving smartly to his right.

    Feyenoord pressed to the end looking for something to take to the San Siro but the Inter defence held firm in a pleasing night for Simone Inzaghi’s men.

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  • ‘Inhumane and immoral’: Football icon facing criminal action over ugly accusation

    ‘Inhumane and immoral’: Football icon facing criminal action over ugly accusation

    Galatasaray have vowed to file a criminal complaint against Jose Mourinho amid claims he made “racist statements” after Monday’s Istanbul derby.

    Mourinho’s Fenerbahce side drew 0-0 away with their bitter Turkish rivals but the match was overshadowed by allegations of racism.

    Former Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham boss Mourinho claimed after the stalemate that Galatasaray had tried to get one of his team booked early on, The Sun reports.

    He told a press conference that “everyone on the opposing bench was jumping around like monkeys”.

    Galatasaray immediately hit back and accused the Portuguese manager, 62, of “regularly using derogatory words towards the Turkish people” since moving to Istanbul.

    In a damning statement, accompanied by a #SayNoToRacism tag, the reigning Turkish champions added: “[He] has now added inhumane rhetoric to his immoral statements.

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    “We would like to inform you that we will file a criminal complaint with the prosecutor’s office and that we will also file a complaint with UEFA and FIFA regarding these racist statements against Jose Mourinho.

    “Furthermore, we shall diligently observe the stance adopted by Fenerbahce — an institution professing to uphold ‘exemplary moral values’— in response to the reprehensible conduct exhibited by their manager.”

    Fenerbahce’s Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho looks on from the technical area during the UEFA Europa League knockout phase play-off 2nd leg football match between Fenerbahce SK (TUR) and RSC Anderlecht (BEL) at the Lotto Park Stadium in Brussels, on February 20, 2025. (Photo by Simon Wohlfahrt / AFP)Source: AFP

    In his post-match press conference, Mourinho claimed Galatasary players had played for a draw and tried to get one of his players a yellow card.

    Praising Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic, who was reportedly drafted in from abroad following a string of controversies surrounding Turkish officials, Mourinho said: “The reason this was a good match was because of the referee’s performance.

    “He had enough honesty to manage this match well. They tried to get a yellow card for our 18-year-old player from the first minute, but the referee managed the game well.”

    However, it was his comments that followed which are believed to have caused uproar.

    Mourinho continued: “In the situation I mentioned, everyone on the opposing bench was jumping around like monkeys.

    “If it were a Turkish referee, they would have immediately given the card, and I would have had to take the player off in a minute.

    “It was a great match for him.”

    Thirty thousand police were deployed. Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images.Source: Getty Images

    “After the match, I went to the referee’s room. I said to the first referee, ‘Thank you for managing this big match well.’

    “I said to the [Turkish] fourth official, ‘If it was you, this match would have been a disaster’. It was a very, very good match in terms of emotion and competition.”

    Mourinho is yet to respond to the allegations made against him. The former Manchester United boss has previously spoken out on how football is plagued by racist incidents.

    The feisty derby saw seven yellow cards dished out, and the match was also stopped momentarily when Fenerbahce fans launched flares into the home fans beneath them.

    Some 30,000 police officers were believed to be on duty for Monday night’s match.

    Galatasaray star Victor Osimhen later shared his club’s statement to his Instagram story.

    Mourinho had previously criticised Osimhen for his on-pitch antics, labelling him a fantastic player, but claiming he “dives too much”.

    Jose Mourinho is a multiple Premier League winning manager. Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images.Source: Getty Images

    Galatasaray boss Okan Buruk later took aim at the “Special One” for going into the referee’s dressing room to talk to him.

    Buruk said: “Mourinho took a long time to cry. The Crying One… He’s famous for crying. He went into the referee’s room and cried. Let him keep crying.

    “Mourinho entered the referee’s room. It is very wrong for him to speak insultingly to the Turkish referee. He said that if they were the ones managing, it would be like this.

    “This is very wrong. I cannot believe that he is humiliating the Turkish referees so much, I condemn it.”

    Former Porto, Real Madrid and Inter Milan boss Mourinho took over at Fenerbahce last year.

    Monday’s result leaves them in second place, six points behind Galatasaray with 12 Super Lig games remaining.

    — This story originally appeared on The Sun and has been republished with permission

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  • Spicy blockbusters galore as mouth-watering Champions League fixtures revealed

    Spicy blockbusters galore as mouth-watering Champions League fixtures revealed

    Liverpool will take on Paris Saint-Germain in the last 16 of this season’s Champions League while the draw also threw up a showdown between reigning champions Real Madrid and their city rivals Atletico.

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    Arne Slot’s Liverpool finished first in the 36-team league phase of the competition to qualify directly for this stage, while PSG finished 15th and had to come through a two-legged play-off tie in which they crushed fellow French side Brest 10-0 on aggregate.

    The first leg will take place at the Parc des Princes in Paris on Wednesday, March 5, with the return at Anfield six days later, on Tuesday, March 11.

    The clubs last met in the Champions League in the group stage in 2018/19, when PSG won 2-1 at home after Liverpool triumphed 3-2 in England.

    The only previous knockout tie between the sides came in the semi-finals of the now defunct Cup Winners’ Cup in 1997, when PSG won 3-2 on aggregate before losing the final to Barcelona.

    Liverpool are currently eight points clear of Arsenal at the top of the English Premier League having played a game more than their closest rivals, while Luis Enrique’s PSG are unbeaten in Ligue 1 this season and sit 10 points clear at the summit.

    With the draw being made up to and including the semi-finals, PSG and Liverpool know the winner of their tie will face either Club Brugge or Aston Villa in the last eight.

    Red card awarded for bizarre brain snap | 00:30

    That raises the possibility of an all-English quarter-final between the teams who succeeded each other as European Cup winners in the early 1980s.

    Villa will face Club Brugge seeking revenge for their 1-0 defeat against the same opponents in Belgium in the league phase in November.

    Real, fresh from eliminating Manchester City in the play-offs, will be at home in the first leg against Atletico on March 4.

    The rivals from the Spanish capital met in the competition in four straight seasons in the last decade, with Real coming out on top every time.

    They won the finals of 2014 and 2016, as well as in the quarter-finals in 2015 and in the semi-finals in 2017.

    EPL Wrap: Ange claims back-to-back wins | 02:53

    “It’s an amazing tie, and we are ready for it,” insisted Atletico coach Diego Simeone, who was in charge for all of the past Champions League meetings between the sides.

    “We have to play two magnificent games because of the quality of our opponents, but we have full confidence in our players and their ability to overcome all difficulties,” said Emilio Butragueno, the former Real player who is now the club’s director of institutional relations.

    “It was everything” – Spurs sweep Man U | 01:49

    The winners of that tie will progress to a last-eight clash against either PSV Eindhoven or Arsenal.

    The Gunners, who came third in the league phase, will be coming up against a club they faced in the group stage of last season’s Champions League — Mikel Arteta’s team won 4-0 at home before drawing 1-1 in the Netherlands.

    “We’ve played against them, they are a really good team. We have experienced it and it will be really difficult,” Arteta said of the reigning Dutch champions.

    “We know what we are facing. When you are at this stage every team is really, really good. When the time comes we will be ready for it.”

    EPL Wrap: Arsenal close Liverpool gap | 03:15

    Another standout tie will see Bayern Munich, the current Bundesliga leaders, take on reigning German champions Bayer Leverkusen.

    Leverkusen, coached by former Bayern midfielder Xabi Alonso, are unbeaten in the last six meetings of the clubs, including a 1-0 win in the German Cup earlier this season. The teams have never previously met in a European tie.

    Feyenoord, the 1970 European Cup winners, will play Italian champions Inter Milan, their reward for knocking out AC Milan in the play-offs. The winners of that tie will face Bayern or Leverkusen in the last eight.

    ‘Bigger club with bigger pressure” | 00:46

    It is the first time two Dutch clubs have been in the last 16 since 2005/06. Current La Liga leaders Barcelona will face Benfica, who they defeated 5-4 away in Lisbon last month on their way to finishing second in the league phase.

    Last season’s beaten finalists Borussia Dortmund will take on French side Lille. The semi-final draw raises the possibility of last-four showdowns between Liverpool and Arsenal, or between Kylian Mbappe’s Real Madrid and his old club PSG.

    Barcelona are on the same side of the draw as Bayern and Leverkusen. This season’s final takes place in Munich on May 31.

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  • Last minute scramble saves German giants; ‘horror show’ knocks out seven-time champs – CL Wrap

    Last minute scramble saves German giants; ‘horror show’ knocks out seven-time champs – CL Wrap

    Alphonso Davies scrambled the ball in with seconds left to give Bayern a 3-2 aggregate victory over Celtic and a place in the last 16 of the Champions League.

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    Bayern started the playoff second leg leading 2-1 from the first game in Glasgow but the visitors cancelled out that lead after 63 minutes.

    Nicolas Kuhn, a former Bayern reserve team player, pounced on an error by Kim Min-jae to sweep the ball home.

    Bayern dominated and peppered the Celtic goal but could not beat Kasper Schmeichel, until, with regular time almost up, the goalie could only parry Leon Goretzka’s header to substitute Davies. The ball bounced in off the Canadian’s shin to give Bayern a 1-1 draw in the match.

    MUNICH, GERMANY – FEBRUARY 18: Alphonso Davies (C) celebrates with Josip Stanisic (L) and Leon Goretzka (R) of Munich his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Knockout Play-off second leg match between FC Bayern München and Celtic FC at on February 18, 2025 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Markus Gilliar – GES Sportfoto/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

    – Feyenoord advance as Hernandez lets down AC Milan –

    Feyenoord reached the last 16 of the Champions League on Tuesday after taking advantage of Theo Hernandez’s damaging sending off to draw 1-1 at AC Milan and go through 2-1 on aggregate.

    Julian Carranza thumped home the winning header in the 73rd minute at a frigid San Siro, sending around 5,000 away fans wild at the same ground where Feyenoord won the old European Cup in 1970.

    Argentine attacker Carranza, who told reporters he was too sick with fever to start the match, cancelled out Santiago Gimenez’s first-minute opener for the seven-time European champions Milan and sent the Dutch through to meet either Inter Milan or Arsenal in the next round.

    The only sour note for Feyenoord was right-back Givairo Read being sent off after the final whistle as tempers flared on the touchline between both sets of players.

    “The 25 minutes that I played, or 30, I was not feeling great and I think everyone could see it, because after every single sprint there was coughing,” said Carranza.

    “It’s the most important goal I’ve ever scored so I’m really happy for that.” Carranza struck for Feyenoord shortly after coming on as substitute as the away side pushed to reach the next round following Hernandez’s red card five minutes after half-time.

    Already on a booking for a needless foul on Anis Hadj-Moussa just before half-time, Hernandez was ruled by referee Szymon Marciniak to have dived in the penalty box when under pressure from Read.

    – Hernandez horror show –

    The France full-back, who went close to putting Milan ahead in the 23rd minute when he crashed a close-range effort off the post, was dismissed, leaving Milan on the back foot after having dominated up to that point.

    Hernandez’s sending off and Carranza’s tie-winning header ruined what looked to be Gimenez’s night when he nodded home the opener against his old team after just 36 seconds.

    Mexico forward Gimenez, who transferred to Milan from Feyenoord during the winter transfer window, pushed the ball home from practically on the line after Malick Thiaw did brilliantly to keep in Christian Pulisic’s cross.

    “Yes, today Theo was sent off but that could happen to anyone. That’s football,” said Gimenez to Sky.

    “We all have great respect for Theo and we ask that he is supported because he always gives everything for Milan and is one of the best full-backs in the world “Now we can’t look back, we have to look forward. We’re still in the (Italian) cup and have work to do in the league so all we can do is keep our heads down and work hard.”

    The 23-year-old Gimenez has already scored three times for Milan since signing from Feyenoord but his sixth goal in the Champions League this season was also his last.

    Milan coach Sergio Conceicao was quick to deflect blame away from Hernandez. “You can talk about whether Theo was touched or not but we need to be stronger emotionally and mentally,” said Conceicao.

    “This elimination is down to me, not Theo or anyone else. I’m the one who’s responsible. Theo has given a lot to Milan.” Milan are by no means assured of a spot in next year’s tournament as they sit seventh in Serie A, five points off the top four with a game in hand.

    And their season has been greatly compromised by the dismal way they lost the first leg in Rotterdam and Hernandez’s poor discipline which led to Tuesday’s painful elimination.

    – Benfica hold off Monaco –

    Benfica snatched a nailbiting 3-3 draw against Monaco on Tuesday to reach the Champions League last 16 with a 4-3 aggregate victory in the play-off round.

    Monaco twice led on the night and came close to forcing extra-time but Orkun Kokcu’s 84th minute equaliser helped Benfica scrape through in Lisbon, with Barcelona or Liverpool awaiting in the next round.

    Kerem Akturkoglu put the hosts ahead against the run of play, with Takumi Minamino levelling for Monaco after 32 minutes.

    Eliesse Ben Seghir fired the visitors ahead but Vangelis Pavlidis struck from the spot to keep the score tied on the night.

    French youngster George Ilenikhena netted in the 81st minute for Monaco but Kokcu prodded home to send Benfica through.

    “It was a tough night, we knew Monaco would put pressure on us from the start and we felt it, we didn’t play our best game,” Kokcu told SportTV.

    “Still, we’re happy to have progressed to the last 16, I’m happy to have contributed to the result.”

    Monaco hammered Nantes 7-1 on Saturday in the French top flight, sharpening their pencils ahead of their crucial exam at the Estadio da Luz.

    Both sides were without key players through injury and suspension, with Benfica missing Angel Di Maria among others, while Monaco started with just one recognised midfielder.

    Wingers Maghnes Akliouche and Ben Seghir played more centrally than usual and both shone in Lisbon, despite ending up on the losing side.

    Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin made a good save to deny Monaco’s Krepin Diatta early on, as the Ligue 1 side looked to get back on level terms in the tie and had the better of the first half.

    However it was the hosts who took the lead after superb work by Benfica striker Pavlidis.

    The Greek attacker, who netted a hat-trick against Barcelona in the group stage, turned provider on this occasion and, after darting into the area, crossed to the back post for Akturkoglu to turn home.

    Swiss international Breel Embolo almost levelled for Monaco but his header hit the post, although the visitors netted less than a minute later.

    Embolo did well to hold off veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi, allowing former Liverpool attacker Minamino room for a shot and he drilled home at the near post.

    Monaco should have taken the lead just before half-time but Embolo fired a glorious chance high over the crossbar after the impressive Akliouche surged through the middle and teed him up.

    – ‘A lot of fight’ –

    The Moroccan winger produced a deadly accurate first-time finish inside the near post after Akliouche cut the ball back to him from the right.

    Bruno Lage’s side struggled to find a foothold in the match but Thilo Kehrer handed the hosts a lifeline when he went to clear the ball but arrived late and kicked Fredrik Aursnes in the box.

    Pavlidis, who netted the only goal of the first leg, powered home from the spot for his seventh of the tournament.

    Ilenikhena put Monaco back ahead on the night mere seconds after coming on from the bench, with Trubin unable to keep his low rifled effort out despite getting a hand to it.

    Adi Hutter’s side could not hold on for more than three minutes, with Alvaro Carreras firing in a dangerous cross which Benfica midfielder Kokcu flicked home.

    Benfica were awarded another penalty in stoppage time when Diatta seemed to bring down Samuel Dahl, but the referee changed his mind after a VAR review.

    “What made the difference today was 100 percent the team’s spirit, with a lot of fight,” said Dahl.

    “The game had its ups and downs, they attacked, we attacked… in the end, we scored three goals.

    “We also conceded three, but we advanced, which was the main objective.”

    – Club Brugge knock Atalanta out –

    Club Brugge of Belgium claimed a shock 3-1 win over Atalanta in Italy on Tuesday to win their Champions League play-off tie 5-2 on aggregate and progress to the last 16.

    Leading 2-1 from last week’s first leg, Club Brugge scored three times in the first half with Chemsdine Talbi netting twice and Ferran Jutgla once.

    Ademola Lookman pulled one back for Atalanta but the Belgians go through to play either Lille or Aston Villa next.

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  • Howler gifts underdog who sacked their manager 48 hours ago lead; clinical Kane – CL Wrap

    Howler gifts underdog who sacked their manager 48 hours ago lead; clinical Kane – CL Wrap

    A catastrophic mistake by AC Milan’s French goalkeeper Mike Maignan handed troubled Dutch side Feyenoord a precious 1-0 advantage after the first leg of the Champions League play-offs Wednesday.

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    The surprise win was a welcome tonic for Feyenoord, who came into the match in disarray after axing manager Brian Priske less than 48 hours before the game.

    In driving Rotterdam rain, the crowd had barely settled from the raucous pre-match singalong when the hosts took the lead thanks to Maignan’s inexplicable howler.

    With only three minutes on the clock, Feyenoord’s Brazilian winger Igor Paixao cut in from the left and fired a speculative shot along the sodden turf.

    The strike should never even have troubled the French international keeper but he somehow failed to collect it cleanly and it ricocheted off his body into the top corner.

    Buoyed by a feverish atmosphere inside De Kuip, the Dutch side had the better of the opening exchanges, winning most of the 50-50 balls and adapting well to the slow surface.

    Seven-time European champions AC Milan in contrast were sloppy and could not match the work rate of the home side.

    Paixao was causing chaos with scything runs down the left-wing and saw a curling shot glance off the bar just before the break, with Maignan well beaten.

    Defensively solid and Paixao in particular dangerous in attack, the unfancied hosts were good value for their 1-0 half-time lead, showing interim boss Pascal Bosschaart plenty of heart and commitment.

    The second half lacked clear-cut chances until the 71st minute when the outstanding Paixao dispossessed England’s Kyle Walker and nearly scored with a lob from the halfway line.

    Milan had one of their first meaningful shots on target when substitute Samuel Chukwueze tried his luck from distance but could only find Feyenoord keeper Timon Wellenreuther.

    The one goal proved enough on the night for Feyenoord to take the upper hand back to Milan, who will need to show far more penetration in the return leg at the San Siro on February 18.

    The match was a disappointing homecoming for AC Milan’s new striker Santiago Gimenez, who had only left De Kuip two weeks earlier after two and a half years and 65 goals in 105 appearances.

    The visitors lacked bite up front in general and Gimenez was largely anonymous until he was substituted on 82 minutes, receiving a warm ovation from the Feyenoord fans.

    Feyenoord will be hoping a win over AC Milan could herald the start of something special.

    In the only previous European meeting between the two, the Rotterdam club took out the Italian giants in their run to their only European Cup title, in 1969-1970.

    Awaiting the winner will be a clash with either Inter Milan or Arsenal.

    – Bayern sink Celtic to seize control of Champions League playoff –

    Bayern Munich took a major step towards the Champions League last 16 as Michael Olise’s thunderbolt and Harry Kane’s clinical finish secured a 2-1 win at Celtic in the playoff round first leg on Wednesday.

    Vincent Kompany’s side dominated the first half and a stunning strike from Olise gave them a deserved lead before Kane maintained his red-hot scoring streak after the interval.

    Daizen Maeda netted in the closing stages to give Scottish champions Celtic hope of a miraculous escape act in the second leg.

    The Japan forward was only playing after his two-game ban was unexpectedly reduced on appeal this week following his red card against Young Boys.

    But Bundesliga leaders Bayern will still be favourites to advance to the last 16 when Celtic visit Munich on February 18.

    Celtic finished just three points behind Bayern in the league phase, yet there is a huge gulf between the clubs’ European pedigree.

    Six-time European champions Bayern lead the Bundesliga by eight points, while Celtic are attempting to reach the last 16 for the first time since 2012-13.

    For the first 70 minutes that chasm in quality was clear to see before Bayern eased up in the closing stages, nearly allowing Celtic back into the tie as a result.

    Celtic’s first defeat in 33 home matches across all competitions was a welcome confidence boost for Bayern, who had shown a weakness on the road in league phase defeats at Barcelona, Aston Villa and Feyenoord.

    Celtic thought they had preyed on that weakness when former Bayern forward Nicolas Kuhn fired home from 20 yards inside the first minute, only for the goal to be disallowed for off-side against Adam Idah.

    Bayern could have been swept away by the tidal wave of noise cascading down from the Parkhead stands.

    But Kompany’s men are too experienced for that and they quickly seized control with a steady diet of possession.

    – Predatory Kane –

    Olise nearly put Bayern ahead with a powerful strike that forced Kasper Schmeichel to save at his near post.

    Schmeichel was forced into action again moments later as Kane’s curler was pushed away by the Dane.

    Bayern were camped on the edge of the Celtic area as they probed for an opener. Kane should have broken the deadlock when he nodded Olise’s corner into the side-netting from close-range.

    But the England captain’s blushes were spared by Olise on the stroke of half-time.

    Cutting inside Greg Taylor to reach Dayot Upamecano’s long pass, Olise unleashed a blistering drive that arrowed into the top corner from 15 yards.

    It was no more than Bayern deserved for their territorial dominance and the Germans struck again four minutes after the interval.

    Joshua Kimmich’s corner swung all the way to the far post without a Celtic clearance and the unmarked Kane guided a composed volley past Schmeichel from five yards.

    Kane’s typically predatory finish took his season tally to 29 goals in 29 games in all competitions.

    Upamecano’s challenge on Arne Engels prompted a long VAR check for a potential penalty, but Celtic’s appeal was correctly rejected.

    That was the signal for Celtic to mount a late bid to haul themselves back into the tie.

    Bayern had grown increasingly sloppy and Rodgers’ men earned their lifeline in the 79th minute when Maeda met Yang Hyun-Jun’s shot with a header from virtually on the line.

    Kompany’s men had to cling on for dear life in the final minutes, with Manuel Neuer producing a crucial save to deny Alistair Johnston.

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  • ‘Feels like a derby’: Football heavyweights to meet AGAIN as huge Champions League knockout draw revealed

    ‘Feels like a derby’: Football heavyweights to meet AGAIN as huge Champions League knockout draw revealed

    Reigning champions Real Madrid will face 2023 winners Manchester City in the plum tie of the playoff round of this season’s Champions League.

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    It is the fourth year running in which the sides have been drawn against each other in a knockout tie, with Real emerging victorious in a penalty shoot-out in the quarter-finals last season.

    City, who scraped through after finishing 22nd in the league phase in this first season of the new format for Europe’s elite club competition, knew they faced a tough draw with Bayern Munich their other possible opponents.

    Pep Guardiola’s team will be at home in the first leg on February 11 before going to Spain for the return on February 19.

    “It feels like a derby already,” Guardiola said at a press conference on Friday.

    Real Madrid CF and Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal on April 9, 2024. Picture: Pierre-Philippe MARCOU / AFPSource: AFP

    “Four years in a row facing Real Madrid. But Bayern or Madrid — both was really tough. Hopefully we can arrive in the first leg here, and then at Madrid, as best as possible.” Real won a dramatic semi-final tie on the way to lifting the trophy in 2022, but City gained revenge at the same stage in 2023 as they went on to become champions.

    Carlo Ancelotti’s side then came out on top last season, while Real won a semi-final tie between the sides in 2016 and City won in the last 16 in 2020.

    “We know each other very well,” said Emilio Butragueno, Real’s director of institutional relations, to Spanish media.

    “They are a really great team who have the experience and are used to these types of games, so they will be very difficult opponents.

    “But this competition is very special for us and we will play the second leg at home, at the Bernabeu.”

    Elsewhere, Celtic will face six-time European champions Bayern, after the Scottish champions reached the knockout stage for the first time in 12 years — Celtic will be at home in the first leg on February 12 and go to Germany six days later.

    Paris Saint-Germain will play surprise package Brest in an all-French tie, while Juventus play PSV Eindhoven and Feyenoord take on AC Milan in two ties between former winners of the competition.

    Tension eases as Spurs advance in Europa | 01:57

    Last season’s Europa League winners Atalanta, who finished one place outside the top eight which offered a direct path to the last 16, will face Club Brugge of Belgium.

    Sporting of Portugal were drawn against last season’s runners-up Borussia Dortmund, while Monaco will take on Benfica having lost at home to the Portuguese club in the league phase.

    The playoff ties will take place next month, with the eight winners going through to the last 16 along with the eight highest-placed sides from the league phase.

    Liverpool, Barcelona, Arsenal, Inter Milan, Atletico Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, Lille and Aston Villa are the sides already through to the last 16.

    Those teams finished in the top eight in the standings in the 36-team league phase — the first season of the new format for the competition saw all competing clubs placed together in one giant pool, each playing eight games against eight different opponents.

    The draw for the remainder of the competition is partly pre-determined, meaning that whoever emerges triumphant in the tie between City and Real knows they will play either Atletico Madrid or Bayer Leverkusen in the last 16.

    Jovial Ange jokes before crucial goal | 00:57

    The draw for the last 16 onwards will take place on February 21, and it remains to be seen if Liverpool derive any advantage from having come first in the league phase.

    Arne Slot’s team will play either PSG or Brest, or Monaco or Benfica, in the last 16 in March.

    This season’s Champions League final will be played at the Allianz Arena in Munich on Saturday, May 31.

    DRAW FOR THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE KNOCKOUT PHASE PLAY-OFFS

    Tuesday February 11 (GMT)

    Brest (FRA) v Paris Saint-Germain (FRA)

    Juventus (ITA) v PSV Eindhoven (NED)

    Manchester City (ENG) v Real Madrid (ESP)

    Sporting (POR) v Borussia Dortmund (GER)

    * Return legs February 19

    Wednesday February 12 (GMT)

    Club Brugge (BEL) v Atalanta (ITA)

    Monaco (FRA) v Benfica (POR)

    Celtic (SCO) v Bayern Munich (GER)

    Feyenoord (NED) v AC Milan (ITA

    * Return legs February 18

    — AFP

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  • City’s fresh controversy as furious Spanish side accuses PL giants of dodgy transfer tactics

    City’s fresh controversy as furious Spanish side accuses PL giants of dodgy transfer tactics

    Manchester City are embroiled in a new transfer controversy with Spanish club Real Valladolid accusing the reigning English Premier League champions of trying to unfairly pinch one of their young stars.

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    Teenage defender Juma Bah has been accused of breaching his contract by Real Valladolid, and they believe City are behind the saga.

    The 18-year-old, who was born in Sierra Leone, and his agent told the club on Tuesday that they intended to unilaterally break the contract between player and club.

    The following day, Juma did not attend at training and he subsequently lodged his release clause with the Royal Spanish Football Federation.

    Real Valladolid then released a scathing statement which alleged that City had attempted to screw them over, and said they were willing to take legal action.

    “The club holds the player responsible for the breach of his contractual commitments and has asked its legal department to initiate disciplinary action,” the club statement said.

    “The club considers that Manchester City, belonging to the City Football Group (CFG), is behind the decision. It seems they have advised the player to take this route, which leaves Valladolid defenceless.”

    Juma has made a dozen first team appearances for the La Liga side after initially joining them on loan from AIK Freetong in Sierra Leone.

    Real Valladolid then made the move permanent on January 1.

    He remains registered with their youth team, but refused to be registered with the senior side as that would have pushed up the price of his release clause.

    “The player’s intention, allegedly supported and guided by Manchester City and his agent, has caused great disappointment and indignation within Real Valladolid, who welcomed Juma with open arms and gave him the opportunity of a lifetime,” the statement added.

    “The RFEF has confirmed that the player has deposited the necessary amount for the unilateral termination of the contract.

    “In this regard, Real Valladolid informs that it reserves the right to take the appropriate legal and sporting jurisdictions to exercise its rights and defend its interests.”

    City, as well as Inter Milan, are among several teams who reportedly showed interest in Juma during the current January transfer window.

    City Football Group is the parent company for Manchester City and owns many other clubs around the world, and Juma could continue his career at any of those clubs, or be sent out on loan.

    Pep Guardiola’s side have been active so far in the transfer period, signing Uzbek Abdukodir Khusanov from Lens and Brazilian youth international Vitor Reis from Palmeiras to bolster their defensive stocks.

    They have struggled to cover injuries, and their form has dropped away, as City sit fifth in the Premier League and are facing a league phase exit from the Champions League with one matchday remaining.

    Off the pitch, they are also awaiting the outcome of the hearing into the 115 breaches of Premier League financial fair play rules they have been accused of.

    That trial began in September and wrapped up in December, but the verdict will be announced later this year.

    They were also involved in a separate legal battle with the Premier League over associated party transaction rules last year.

    City have not responded to several media requests for comment on the Juma matter.

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