Mikel Merino Completes Move From Real Socieded to Arsenal

Posted on August 27, 2024 by Tom Castaneda

Mikel Merino is officially switching sides…

The 28-year-old Spanish professional footballer has completed his move to Arsenal from Real Sociedad in a deal reportedly worth €37.5 million ($41.9m), per ESPN.

Merino, who has agreed to a four-year deal, was part of the Spain team that lifted the Euro 2024 title, contributing most notably with an extra-time winner against Germany in the quarterfinals.

The deal is thought to be €32.5m plus €5m in add-ons.

Arsenal sporting director and former midfielder Edu said of the transfer: “We are so happy to have completed the transfer of Mikel Merino. This has been another great team effort from many people at the club to finalize the transfer of a player who attracted interest from a number of clubs over the summer.

“Mikel was a key target for us this summer, and we identified him as a player who can fit perfectly into our squad and profile to improve us, as we aim to build on our strong performances of last season.”

Real Sociedad coach Imanol Alguacil left Merino out of the squad for their LaLiga opener against Rayo Vallecano due to talks advancing with Arsenal at the time of the match, and he also did not feature in the team’s win over Espanyol last weekend.

Merino played 242 times for Real Sociedad, scoring 27 goals and adding 30 assists after signing for the Basque club in 2018.

Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta has been a fan of the player for some time, and believes his profile — and evolution in recent seasons — is what his team needs to pursue the Premier League title.

“Mikel will make our squad significantly stronger, with his technical ability, together with his strong and positive character and personality,” Arteta said in the news release announcing Merino’s arrival.

Lautaro Martinez Wins 2024 Copa America Golden Boot Award

Posted on July 16, 2024 by Tom Castaneda

Lautaro Martinez is getting the boot!

The 26-year-old Argentine professional footballer, who scored the sole goal to lead Argentina to the title in the Copa America final against Colombia, has been awarded the tournament’s Golden Boot award.

Copa America 2024 Golden Boot winner: Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan):
Martinez, who plays as a striker for Serie A club Inter Milan, earned some redemption at this year’s Copa America. After tons of criticism in Qatar and fans around the world saying they won in spite of his performances, the Inter Milan striker lifted the Golden Boot after scoring five goals this summer, including the tournament winner in extra time against Los Cafeteros.

Martinez has been one of the best strikers in Europe for years winning Serie A, Coppa Italia and Supercoppa Italiana titles with Inter Milan. His performances at the 2022 World Cup, along with the rise of Manchester City‘s Julian Alvarez saw the striker lose his starting position. Though, after this summer, he’s quieted the doubters and haters whether starting or off the bench.

Copa America 2024 Golden Glove winner: Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa):
Another international tournament, another Golden Glove for Emiliano Martinez. Three straight Golden Gloves at international competitions for the 31-year-old Argentine professional footballer and Aston Villa player has cemented himself as an Argentinian legend.

The meteoric rise he’s been on since his last season at Arsenal winning the FA Cup and Community Shield to helping Aston Villa qualify for the Champions League this past Premier League season has been one of the best stories in the sport.

Copa America 2024 Golden Ball winner: James Rodriguez (Sao Paulo):
If James Rodriguez announced himself to the world at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, this summer he reminded the world why he’s such a talented and special player.

The 33-year-old Colombian professional footballer and Sao Paulo player won the Golden Ball signifying himself as the best player of the tournament, a consolation prize after heartbreak in the final.

James assisted six times in the tournament, four more than Nicolas de la Cruz and Alexis Mac Allister.

He also overtook Radamel Falcao this tournament as the fourth-most capped player in Los Cafeteros history. A remarkable tournament for the player despite it ending in disappointment.

Arsenal F.C. Complete Permanent Signing of David Raya from Brentford

Posted on July 4, 2024 by Tom Castaneda

David Raya is making things permanent…

Arsenal F.C. has completed the permanent signing of the 28-year-old Spanish professional footballer from Brentford, the club has confirmed.

Arsenal paid an initial £3 million ($3.8m) to take Raya on loan last season and have now triggered an option worth £27m ($34.3m) to sign him on a long-term contract.

Raya kept 20 clean sheets in 41 appearances last season and won the Premier League Golden Glove award as Arsenal finished runners-up to Manchester City.

“After a year on loan as a Gunner, I can finally say that I’m an Arsenal player for the coming years,” Raya said.

“I’m excited to see what the future holds but always living in and enjoying the present. It’s a dream come true to be here and I want to thank you for all the support you have already given me throughout the last year.”

The deal for Raya — although widely expected — casts further doubt over the future of Aaron Ramsdale, who has been linked with a move to Newcastle but has put any talks on hold while with England at Euro 2024.

“David showed us last season what an important player he is for us, so we are delighted he is now officially our player,” Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said. “He is a big presence in our dressing room and we are really pleased to keep working with him.

“We know he will take the strong foundations he put in place last season and build on them in the years to come, and that he will enjoy more success with us.

“We have a very talented group of goalkeepers and I love to see connections like the one I see in our goalkeeping unit.”

Sporting director Edu added: “David’s signing is another strong example of our recruitment strategy in action, as we continue to build a team that will challenge for major trophies.

“We know there’s so much more to come from him and we are excited that he will continue to be a big part of the journey we are all on.”

Pep Guardiola Named Premier League Manager of the Year

Posted on May 21, 2024 by Tom Castaneda

Pep Guardiola is in a premier class all his own…

The 53-year-old Spanish professional football manager and former player has been named Premier League Manager of the Year after guiding Manchester City to an unprecedented fourth successive title.

Guardiola has previously won the award four times since he joined the club in 2016.

With six league titles, he’s now the joint second-most successful coach in the history of English football.

Only former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, with 11, has won the award more times.

Guardiola saw off competition from Arsenal‘s Mikel Arteta, Aston Villa’s Unai Emery, Bournemouth‘s Andoni Iraola and Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp.

“I want to share it, yes, oh yes! Especially with Mikel for the incredible job he has done until the last game, bringing us to our limits,” Guardiola said.

“Of course, for Jurgen, for the unforgettable battles for many, many years. And Unai Emery, making something unbelievable again to bring Aston Villa to the Champions League.

“And Andoni Iraola, with Bournemouth, being his first season in the Premier League, doing what he has done, coming back from the tough start of the season.

“It is an honor to be alongside all of them and to win this trophy. We will defend this award as best as possible in the future.”

Added Guardiola: “Winning four titles in a row is one of the proudest achievements of my career. This is the toughest league in the world and our competitors have played some incredible football.”

Paris Saint-Germain Reportedly Reach Agreement to Sign Gabriel Moscardo from Corinthians

Posted on December 27, 2023 by Tom Castaneda

Gabriel Moscardo is headed to The City of Light…

Paris Saint-Germain has reached an agreement to sign the 18-year-old Brazilian soccer phenom, a midfielder for Corinthians, per ESPN sources.

PSG sporting director Luís Campos traveled to Brazil earlier this month to watch Moscardo, and the club have now agreed to a €20 million deal for the midfielder.

ESPN reported last summer that Chelsea had a bid of $22m rejected.

Other teams in Europe, such as Arsenal, Manchester United and Atlético Madrid, also made inquiries about the Corinthians player but did not make offers.

Sources have told ESPN that Moscardo recently visited Paris and will sign a five-year contract at the club.

Before Moscardo turned professional, Barcelona also showed interest in the player but talks did not go ahead.

Promoted to the first team this season, Moscardo has made 25 senior appearances for Corinthians, registering one goal and one assist.

Douglas Luiz Remains Atop Arsenal F.C.’s Wish List

Posted on November 27, 2023 by Tom Castaneda

Douglas Luiz remains a leading target for the Arsenal F.C.…

The English professional football club is eyeing a reshuffle of its midfield in January with the 25-year-old Brazilian professional footballer, who plays for Aston Villa, a leading target and the future of Thomas Partey uncertain, according to ESPN.

Arsenal had three bids for Luiz rejected in September 2022 — the final offer totaling around £25 million ($31.6m) — and the Brazil international subsequently signed a new contract which ties him to Villa Park until 2026.

Luiz has been a key figure for Unai Emery‘s side this season, starting all 13 Premier League games with Aston Villa fourth in the table following Sunday’s 2-1 win at Tottenham.

Arsenal’s interest remains but they would likely have to make a dramatically improved offer to convince Aston Villa to allow Luiz to leave in the middle of such a promising campaign.

Arsenal have limited funds available after spending more than £200m in the summer — significantly, their deal to sign goalkeeper David Raya from Brentford was structured initially as a £3m loan with an option for a permanent move worth around £27m specifically to aid Arsenal’s compliance with financial rules.

They could raise money for new signings with Partey’s departure. The midfielder has started just three league games this season amid ongoing injury problems.

The 30-year-old is now sidelined until the New Year with a hamstring issue and is due to join up with Ghana for the Africa Cup of Nations, which runs from January 13 to February 11

Reports in Italy said Juventus are tracking Partey, and sources have told ESPN that Arsenal considered allowing the midfielder to leave in the summer but a suitable offer failed to materialize amid reports clubs in Saudi Arabia were also interested at the time.

Arsenal are open to keeping Partey but it remains to be seen whether a club formalizes their interest as his departure would give Arsenal more financial clout to test Aston Villa’s resolve in keeping Luiz.

Mikel Arteta may choose to prioritize other areas, however, given they are also tracking Brentford striker Ivan Toney and Wolves winger Pedro Neto.

Cesc Fabregas Named Temporary Manager of Italy’s Serie B Side Como

Posted on November 13, 2023 by Tom Castaneda

Cesc Fabregas is steppin’ in to lead…

The 36-year-old former Spain midfielder will take temporary charge of Italian Serie B side Como, the club confirmed on Monday.

Fabregas will replace Moreno Longo as manager, after the Italian won just 16 of his 45 games in charge.

The job will mark Fabregas’ senior managerial debut.

The former Arsenal, Barcelona and Chelsea midfielder retired from his playing career in July.

Fabregas played 17 games in Italy’s second-tier with Como last season before taking on the role of the club’s youth team coach.

Como are sixth in the standings and take on Feralpisalo at home on November 25.

West Ham United F.C. Signs Edson Álvarez from Ajax

Posted on August 10, 2023 by Tom Castaneda

Edson Álvarez is ready to Ham it up…

West Ham United F.C. has signed the 25-year-old professional soccer play and Mexico midfielder from Ajax on a five-year deal, the Premier League club has announced.

West Ham did not disclose terms, but Ajax said the two clubs had agreed a transfer fee of €38 million ($41.90m), which could increase to €41m with add-ons.

“We’re really pleased to add Edson to our squad,” West Ham manager David Moyes said after his first signing of the summer transfer window.

“The midfield area was one we were especially keen to strengthen this summer, and Edson will complement the other options we have in that department.

“He’s an experienced international player who has enjoyed great success for both club and country during his career to date.”

Alvarez had twice helped Ajax to win the Eredivisie since his arrival in 2019, making 147 appearances and scoring 13 goals in all competitions.

Álvarez has been capped 69 times for Mexico, playing at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.

His arrival will be a boost for the Hammers, who sold England midfielder Declan Rice to Arsenal in a deal worth £105m — a record transfer between two British clubs.

Fulham F.C. Agrees to Deal with Wolverhampton Wanderers to Sign Raul Jimenez

Posted on July 23, 2023 by Tom Castaneda

Raul Jimenez is switching sides…

Fulham F.C. has agreed to a £5 million ($6.42m) deal with the Wolverhampton Wanderers to sign the 32-year-old Mexican professional footballer, according to ESPN.

Jimenez is set to finalize personal terms, and a medical is expected to take place early next week.

Fulham’s interest comes amid ongoing uncertainty over the future of Aleksandar Mitrovic, who is not available for selection after being frustrated at being denied a move away from the club.

The Serbia forward is keen on joining Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, who’ve had a £25m bid rejected with Fulham valuing him in excess of £50m.

Jimenez has been at Wolves since 2018 — initially on loan from Benfica before joining permanently a year later — and was later sidelined for nine months after fracturing his skull during a game against Arsenal in 2020.

Fulham boss Marco Silva had on Saturday expressed his frustration at the club’s lack of signings this summer, but Jimenez is now close to becoming their first arrival.

Alexia Putellas Wins Ballon d’Or Feminin for Second Consecutive Year

Posted on October 17, 2022 by Tom Castaneda

Alexia Putellas has earned a place in soccer history…

The 28-year-old Spanish professional footballer and Barcelona midfielder has won the Ballon d’Or Feminin for the second consecutive year, becoming the first woman to win the award twice since it launched in 2018.

Putellas was named the best women’s player in the world at the Monday gala in Paris despite being sidelined since June with a torn anterior cruciate ligament.

She finished ahead of Arsenal‘s Beth Mead and Chelsea‘s Sam Kerr, who were second and third, respectively.

“Without my teammates this would not have been possible,” Putellas said after receiving the award. “I want to thank the staff and the coach and everyone involved at Barcelona.

“I’m very happy to be back here and pleased because a year ago I was able to win this prize and it pushed me to want to be even better.”

Prior to her injury in the summer, Putellas captained Barcelona to a third successive Primera Division title. The Catalan side made history by winning all 30 of their league games throughout the 2021-22 campaign.

She also led Barcelona to success in the Spanish Super Cup and the Copa de la Reina to complete a domestic treble, although they came up short in the Champions League.

Putellas’ strike in the final was not enough to stop French side Lyon from beating Barcelona 3-1 in Turin.

However, after scoring 11 goals in the Champions League, more than any other player in the competition, Putellas was later named UEFA Women’s Player of the Year ahead of Mead and Lena Oberdorf.

In addition to those 11 goals in Europe, she scored 18 league goals from midfield, four in the Copa de la Reina and one in the Super Cup.

Putellas had hoped success would follow for Spain in the summer, but she tore her left ACL in training with the national team ahead of the European Championship in England.

She has not played since and is expected to remain out of action for several more months.

Last year, Putellas became the first Spanish winner of a Ballon d’Or since Luis Suarez in 1960. She was also named the Best FIFA Women’s Player.

The Ballon d’Or Feminin was launched in 2018 when it was won by Lyon’s Ada Hegerberg. Megan Rapinoe won it the following year before it was suspended in 2020 because of the pandemic.

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