Belgium defeated Saudi Arabia 4-0 in Friendlies. The fixture is part of the Friendlies 1 stage in the 2018 season. Matej Jug, Slovenia officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Belgium vs Saudi Arabia meeting in Friendlies with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Belgium and Saudi Arabia. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
FriendliesRecorded meetings: 0 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Belgium defeated Saudi Arabia 4-0 in Friendlies. The fixture is part of the Friendlies 1 stage in the 2018 season. Matej Jug, Slovenia officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Belgium vs Saudi Arabia meeting in Friendlies with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Belgium and Saudi Arabia. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
Friendlies
The American talisman was destined to stand at the epicenter of this emotionally charged preseason reunion, yet his absence has left fans wondering why he will miss the clash. A heavy shadow falls over Jakarta as Christian Pulisic is officially ruled out of a monumental clash against his former comrades at Chelsea. The American talisman was destined to stand at the epicenter of this emotionally charged preseason reunion, yet his absence has left fans wondering why he will miss the clash. Milan will face Chelsea on Saturday at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, with the fixture serving as one of the final tests before the new season. The Italian club arrives after a 1-1 draw with Inter, while the Blues are looking to respond after suffering a 1-0 defeat against Juventus. The match was always expected to carry extra significance because of the number of players with connections to the London club. Fikayo Tomori, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Christopher Nkunku could all feature for the Rossoneri against their former side, while Pulisic would have been another obvious storyline had he been available. The 27-year-old American forward spent four seasons at Chelsea before moving to San Siro in 2023, establishing himself as one of the Italian club’s most important attacking players. His absence therefore leaves Milan without a player who could have provided both quality on the wing and plenty of personal motivation against his former employer. The reason behind Pulisic’s absence The reason Pulisic will miss the friendly is an injury suffered during the United States’ 2026 World Cup campaign. The American winger was hurt during the United States’ Round of 16 meeting with Belgium after attempting a shot and colliding with Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans. According to reports from The Athletic, medical examinations subsequently revealed a bone bruise and microfracture around the tibia-fibula area of Pulisic’s right leg. The winger initially attempted to continue after the collision, but the discomfort eventually forced him out of the match. The injury ended his World Cup campaign and meant that his return to Milan preparations needed to be handled carefully rather than rushed. Christian Pulisic #10 of the United States reacts after challenged by Youri Tielemans #8 of Belgium Instead of joining the squad for the preseason tour of Australia, Indonesia and Poland, Pulisic remained at Milanello to continue his rehabilitation. La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that the club’s priority has been to avoid increasing the player’s workload too quickly after his injury. The decision means he has missed the opportunity to face Inter and Chelsea during the overseas tour, but it could prove important in preventing the setback from becoming a longer-term problem. Pulisic returned to Milanello on July 30 after receiving additional time away following the World Cup and underwent medical checks before beginning individual training. Pulisic’s recovery timeline offers Milan encouragement Although the initial description of the injury understandably raised concerns, there has been some encouraging news surrounding Pulisic’s recovery. The expectation is that he will need weeks rather than months to recover, giving the club hope that he can return relatively early in the Serie A campaign. View this post on Instagram The Rossoneri have therefore avoided taking unnecessary risks during preseason. A friendly against Chelsea can offer valuable preparation, but Ruben Amorim has little reason to gamble with one of his most important players when the competitive season is approaching. Pulisic is currently targeting a return around the beginning of the new Serie A season, with Milan scheduled to face Torino on August 23. If his rehabilitation continues without complications, the American could have a realistic chance of being available for that fixture or returning shortly afterward.
A full breakdown of the 17 managerial changes following the 2026 World Cup, featured by high-profile appointments like Zinedine Zidane and Jürgen Klopp. It would be fair to say that international football management has become a cut-throat business if the 2026 World Cup is anything to go by. Belgium boss Rudi García’s exit following the expiry of his contract on July 31 took the number of managerial departures to 17 this summer. Read on as we look at which managers have left their roles this summer, before assessing some of the noteworthy appointments to replace them. International managerial exits: Summer 2026 Didier Deschamps (France) – Ended his 14-year spell in charge after the World Cup.Roberto Martínez (Portugal) – Resigned after Portugal’s round of 16 defeat to Spain.Julian Nagelsmann (Germany) – Quit after Germany were beaten by Paraguay in the round of 32.Rudi García (Belgium) – Exited following Belgium’s run to the quarter-finals.Zlatko Dalić (Croatia) – Ended his tenure following Croatia’s round of 32 exit against Portugal.Javier Aguirre (Mexico) – Resigned after Mexico lost against England in the round of 16.Ronald Koeman (Netherlands) – Left after the Netherlands exited in the round of 32.Sebastián Beccacece (Ecuador) – Resigned after Ecuador’s round of 32 elimination.Marcelo Bielsa (Uruguay) – Stepped down after Uruguay’s World Cup campaign.Steve Clarke (Scotland) – Resigned after Scotland failed to progress beyond the group stage.Hong Myung-bo (South Korea) – Left after South Korea’s early exit.Sabri Lamouchi (Tunisia) – Sacked after Tunisia’s opening 5–1 defeat at the tournament.Miroslav Koubek (Czechia) – Stepped down following Czechia’s group-stage elimination.Pape Thiaw (Senegal) – Had his contract terminated after Senegal’s exit.Carlos Queiroz (Ghana) – Resigned after Ghana were eliminated in the round of 32.Jamal Sellami (Jordan) – Left his position after Jordan’s early exit.Vladimir Petković (Algeria) – Exited following Algeria’s disappointing campaign. Zidane & Klopp headline new managerial appointments Zinedine Zidane and Jürgen Klopp are the standout names on the list of replacements announced by international federations to date. Zidane, a World Cup winner with France in 1998, has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid for a second time in 2021. The 54-year-old has now been tasked with building on the foundations laid by Deschamps. He will lead France through the 2030 World Cup qualifiers. “I’ve often said it – there’s nothing greater than the French national team,” Zidane said. “So, it’s a joy and obviously a great source of pride to become the manager of this French national team. “It’s also a responsibility. I want to thank [French Football Federation] president Philippe Diallo, the executive committee, and the French Football Federation for their confidence and acknowledge the 14 years of service from Didier and his staff. “I also have a special thought for all my coaches. Needless to say, I have high ambitions for the French national team.” The German Football Association’s decision to turn to Klopp was no real surprise given the lack of viable alternatives. The 59-year-old previously re-established Liverpool as a force in English football, before joining Red Bull GmbH as Head of Global Soccer in January 2025. He will now work to restore the fortunes of a team which has struggled to live up to its billing since last winning the World Cup in 2014. Portugal will embark on a new era after Martínez stepped aside. Jorge Jesus has replaced him after spending the last three years in the Saudi Pro League. Jesus must determine how best to handle veteran forward Cristiano Ronaldo, who has given no indication that he will retire from international football. Martínez made the mistake of pandering to Ronaldo at the World Cup, and his decision ultimately resulted in them making an early exit from the tournament. Jesus, who managed Ronaldo at Al-Nassr last season, has suggested that the 41-year-old wi
Having Nicolas Raskin available to face Jagiellonia Bialystok is "positive for Rangers", says former Ibrox goalkeeper Cammy Bell. Belgium midfielder Raskin, 25, could make his first Rangers appearance of the season in Poland in Thursday's Europa League third qualifying round first leg. "It's a player that's come off the back of playing a lot of minutes at the World Cup for a top side as well," Bell told the BBC's Scottish Football Podcast.
Matthias Jaissle, Eddie Howe's replacement at Newcastle United, might not be too well known given that his only head coaching roles to date have been in Austria and Saudi Arabia. So who is the man arriving to take charge at St James' Park?
New head coach Matthias Jaissle says he "fully and unreservedly" believes in the Newcastle United project. The club have confirmed the 38-year-old's immediate appointment following the departure of Eddie Howe last month. Jaissle joins from Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli, where he lead the club to back-to-back AFC Champions League title, having previously been in charge at RB Salzburg for two seasons, securing the Austrian Bundesliga twice and also the Austrian Cup once.
While the Portuguese superstar continues preparing for another season in Saudi Arabia, developments away from the pitch have placed his growing soccer business interests in the spotlight alongside Al-Ittihad's summer recruitment strategy. Cristiano Ronaldo has unexpectedly found himself connected to one of the biggest transfer stories involving one of Al-Nassr’s fiercest Saudi Pro League rivals. While the Portuguese superstar continues preparing for another season in Saudi Arabia, developments away from the pitch have placed his growing soccer business interests in the spotlight alongside Al-Ittihad’s summer recruitment strategy. The latest move has raised eyebrows across the league, especially as Al-Ittihad moved quickly to strengthen its squad while Al-Nassr is still waiting to complete its first major signing of the transfer window. Ronaldo’s investment outside Saudi Arabia has now played an indirect role in helping one of the club’s biggest domestic competitors. Al-Ittihad has officially completed the signing of Senegal midfielder Dion Lopy from Spanish club Almeria, making him the club’s first overseas arrival of the summer transfer window. According to reports from Al-Riyadiah and several other outlets, the 24-year-old signed a long-term contract after the Tigers agreed to pay approximately $15 million, with the transfer fee scheduled to be paid in installments. The deal also reportedly includes a 10% sell-on clause in favor of Almeria should Lopy be transferred again in the future. The Tigers’ midfield is under the Black Panther’s command 🇸🇳🐅 pic.twitter.com/wDtEPNLc6U— Al-Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) August 5, 2026 The Saudi club confirmed the transfer through an announcement on its official social media channels, although it did not disclose the financial details. Ronaldo’s Almeria investment creates unexpected link The transfer carries an unusual twist because Almeria is partially owned by Cristiano Ronaldo. Earlier in 2026, Ronaldo acquired a 25% ownership stake in the Spanish club, expanding his soccer portfolio while continuing his playing career with Al-Nassr. That investment means one of Ronaldo’s clubs has now completed a profitable sale to Al-Ittihad, a direct Saudi Pro League rival that continues to challenge Al-Nassr for domestic honors. The timing has attracted attention because Al-Ittihad has already secured its first major foreign signing, while Al-Nassr has yet to bring in a new player during the current transfer window. Cristiano Ronaldo of team Al-Nassr FC competes for the ball with Ahmed Al-Julaydan of team Al-Ittihad FC The Senegal international joins Al-Ittihad following the departure of Brazilian midfielder Fabinho, whose contract expired at the end of last season. Lopy primarily operates as a defensive midfielder, although he is also capable of playing in a deeper central role. His versatility is expected to provide additional balance in midfield as the club prepares for the upcoming Saudi Pro League campaign. Since arriving at Almeria from Stade Reims in 2023, Lopy made 105 appearances, scoring four goals and contributing six assists across all competitions. Tansfer that benefits everyone The midfielder built a reputation in Spain through his physical presence, defensive awareness and ability to recover possession. During the 2025-26 campaign, he featured regularly in midfield while also contributing going forward with three goals and two assists in league competition. Statistical reports highlighted his impact in defensive situations, including strong numbers for tackles, interceptions, ball recoveries and aerial duels. His passing range also made him an attractive option for a possession-based side looking to strengthen its midfield. From the Land of Teranga 🇸🇳 to the Tigers’ Den 🐅 pic.twitter.com/9qz0cG9wQO— Al-Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) August 5, 2026 For Al-Ittihad, the signing addresses an important gap left by Fabinho’s departure while adding an experienced international midfielder entering
Cammy Devlin is impressed with Nico Raskin's impact in training since his World Cup exploits and hopes they get the chance to team up in Rangers' midfield. Raskin, who has been linked with an Ibrox exit this summer, is back in the Rangers squad for Thursday's Europa League third-round qualifier first leg against Jagiellonia Bialystok after helping Belgium reach the World Cup quarter-finals.
German officially announced as Howe’s successor‘This an incredibly compelling place to be’Matthias Jaissle has described Newcastle “as an incredibly compelling place to be” after finally formalising his managerial move from Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ahli.The 38-year-old German has been with his new players at their training camp in La Manga, southern Spain, since last Saturday but, despite also falling under the ownership of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Al-Ahli took time to provide Newcastle with some vital paperwork regarding the release of a head coach they were extremely reluctant to lose. Continue reading...
Marcus Rashford is contracted to Manchester United until 2028. United's transfer activity has slowed since Belgium midfielder Youri Tielemans joined them for £35m on 14 July. While uncertainty over Rashford's future is not the entire reason for this, it is a basic truth that United's search for a left-sided attacking player, or another striker, will be affected if he stays at the club because he can play in both positions.
With Milan crossing oceans to battle its eternal rival under the Australian sun, the glaring absence of their attacking superstar has ignited fierce speculation, completely dominating the narrative ahead of this unprecedented preseason war. A shadow has been cast over the historic first-ever Derby della Madonnina in the Southern Hemisphere, as American talisman Christian Pulisic is ruled out of the monumental clash against Inter. With Milan crossing oceans to battle its eternal rival under the Australian sun, the glaring absence of their attacking superstar has ignited fierce speculation, completely dominating the narrative ahead of this unprecedented preseason war. Milan and Inter will meet at Optus Stadium in Perth on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, as both clubs continue preparations for the new Serie A campaign. While the rivalry remains intense despite the friendly setting, the Rossoneri will enter the match without several important players, including Pulisic, as the club carefully manages its squad ahead of the new season. The match in Perth represents a historic moment because it will be the first time the Derby della Madonnina has been played in Australia. The two sides have previously taken their rivalry outside Italy, but this fixture marks the first meeting between the two clubs on Australian soil. Milan arrives at the match during a period of transition under new head coach Ruben Amorim. The club finished the 2025-26 Serie A season in fifth place with 70 points, missing out on Champions League qualification despite enjoying a 24-match unbeaten run during the campaign. However, Milan struggled during the final stages of the season, losing seven of its last 13 league matches and allowing fourth place to slip away. Christian Pulisic of AC Milan competes for the ball with Piotr Zielinski of FC Internazionale Inter, meanwhile, enters the derby in a stronger position after a successful campaign. The club won the Serie A title with 87 points and lifted the Coppa Italia, giving head coach Cristian Chivu a dream first full season in charge. The Nerazzurri also finished with the league’s best attack, scoring 89 goals, while conceding only 35 times. However, Christian Chivu will also be without several important players as the club manages its squad following the 2026 World Cup. The real reason Christian Pulisic is missing against Inter Pulisic is unavailable for Milan’s clash with Inter because he is recovering from an injury suffered during the United States’ 2026 World Cup campaign. The American winger did not travel with Milan’s squad for the Australian tour and instead remained at Milanello to continue his rehabilitation program. According to reports from The Athletic, Pulisic suffered the injury during the United States’ Round of 16 defeat against Belgium after attempting a shot and colliding with Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans. Although he initially tried to continue, the pain eventually forced him to leave the match. Medical examinations later revealed that the 27-year-old star suffered a bone bruise and a microfracture around the tibia-fibula area of his right leg. Earlier reports from Italian media also described the issue as a microfracture to his right fibula. Christian Pulisic #10 of the United States reacts after challenged by Youri Tielemans #8 of Belgium Despite the injury sounding serious, the recovery timeline has provided some optimism. Medical staff believe the problem requires weeks rather than months of recovery, meaning Pulisic could potentially return early in the new Serie A season. When could Pulisic return to action? Milan has decided against rushing Pulisic back into action and has created a controlled rehabilitation plan for the winger. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the club’s priority is ensuring that the American fully recovers before increasing his workload. Pulisic returned to Milanello after receiving additional time away following the World Cup. He completed medical checks before sta
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The American talisman was destined to stand at the epicenter of this emotionally charged preseason reunion, yet his absence has left fans wondering why he will miss the clash. A heavy shadow falls over Jakarta as Christian Pulisic is officially ruled out of a monumental clash against his former comrades at Chelsea. The American talisman was destined to stand at the epicenter of this emotionally charged preseason reunion, yet his absence has left fans wondering why he will miss the clash. Milan will face Chelsea on Saturday at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, with the fixture serving as one of the final tests before the new season. The Italian club arrives after a 1-1 draw with Inter, while the Blues are looking to respond after suffering a 1-0 defeat against Juventus. The match was always expected to carry extra significance because of the number of players with connections to the London club. Fikayo Tomori, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Christopher Nkunku could all feature for the Rossoneri against their former side, while Pulisic would have been another obvious storyline had he been available. The 27-year-old American forward spent four seasons at Chelsea before moving to San Siro in 2023, establishing himself as one of the Italian club’s most important attacking players. His absence therefore leaves Milan without a player who could have provided both quality on the wing and plenty of personal motivation against his former employer. The reason behind Pulisic’s absence The reason Pulisic will miss the friendly is an injury suffered during the United States’ 2026 World Cup campaign. The American winger was hurt during the United States’ Round of 16 meeting with Belgium after attempting a shot and colliding with Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans. According to reports from The Athletic, medical examinations subsequently revealed a bone bruise and microfracture around the tibia-fibula area of Pulisic’s right leg. The winger initially attempted to continue after the collision, but the discomfort eventually forced him out of the match. The injury ended his World Cup campaign and meant that his return to Milan preparations needed to be handled carefully rather than rushed. Christian Pulisic #10 of the United States reacts after challenged by Youri Tielemans #8 of Belgium Instead of joining the squad for the preseason tour of Australia, Indonesia and Poland, Pulisic remained at Milanello to continue his rehabilitation. La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that the club’s priority has been to avoid increasing the player’s workload too quickly after his injury. The decision means he has missed the opportunity to face Inter and Chelsea during the overseas tour, but it could prove important in preventing the setback from becoming a longer-term problem. Pulisic returned to Milanello on July 30 after receiving additional time away following the World Cup and underwent medical checks before beginning individual training. Pulisic’s recovery timeline offers Milan encouragement Although the initial description of the injury understandably raised concerns, there has been some encouraging news surrounding Pulisic’s recovery. The expectation is that he will need weeks rather than months to recover, giving the club hope that he can return relatively early in the Serie A campaign. View this post on Instagram The Rossoneri have therefore avoided taking unnecessary risks during preseason. A friendly against Chelsea can offer valuable preparation, but Ruben Amorim has little reason to gamble with one of his most important players when the competitive season is approaching. Pulisic is currently targeting a return around the beginning of the new Serie A season, with Milan scheduled to face Torino on August 23. If his rehabilitation continues without complications, the American could have a realistic chance of being available for that fixture or returning shortly afterward.
A full breakdown of the 17 managerial changes following the 2026 World Cup, featured by high-profile appointments like Zinedine Zidane and Jürgen Klopp. It would be fair to say that international football management has become a cut-throat business if the 2026 World Cup is anything to go by. Belgium boss Rudi García’s exit following the expiry of his contract on July 31 took the number of managerial departures to 17 this summer. Read on as we look at which managers have left their roles this summer, before assessing some of the noteworthy appointments to replace them. International managerial exits: Summer 2026 Didier Deschamps (France) – Ended his 14-year spell in charge after the World Cup.Roberto Martínez (Portugal) – Resigned after Portugal’s round of 16 defeat to Spain.Julian Nagelsmann (Germany) – Quit after Germany were beaten by Paraguay in the round of 32.Rudi García (Belgium) – Exited following Belgium’s run to the quarter-finals.Zlatko Dalić (Croatia) – Ended his tenure following Croatia’s round of 32 exit against Portugal.Javier Aguirre (Mexico) – Resigned after Mexico lost against England in the round of 16.Ronald Koeman (Netherlands) – Left after the Netherlands exited in the round of 32.Sebastián Beccacece (Ecuador) – Resigned after Ecuador’s round of 32 elimination.Marcelo Bielsa (Uruguay) – Stepped down after Uruguay’s World Cup campaign.Steve Clarke (Scotland) – Resigned after Scotland failed to progress beyond the group stage.Hong Myung-bo (South Korea) – Left after South Korea’s early exit.Sabri Lamouchi (Tunisia) – Sacked after Tunisia’s opening 5–1 defeat at the tournament.Miroslav Koubek (Czechia) – Stepped down following Czechia’s group-stage elimination.Pape Thiaw (Senegal) – Had his contract terminated after Senegal’s exit.Carlos Queiroz (Ghana) – Resigned after Ghana were eliminated in the round of 32.Jamal Sellami (Jordan) – Left his position after Jordan’s early exit.Vladimir Petković (Algeria) – Exited following Algeria’s disappointing campaign. Zidane & Klopp headline new managerial appointments Zinedine Zidane and Jürgen Klopp are the standout names on the list of replacements announced by international federations to date. Zidane, a World Cup winner with France in 1998, has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid for a second time in 2021. The 54-year-old has now been tasked with building on the foundations laid by Deschamps. He will lead France through the 2030 World Cup qualifiers. “I’ve often said it – there’s nothing greater than the French national team,” Zidane said. “So, it’s a joy and obviously a great source of pride to become the manager of this French national team. “It’s also a responsibility. I want to thank [French Football Federation] president Philippe Diallo, the executive committee, and the French Football Federation for their confidence and acknowledge the 14 years of service from Didier and his staff. “I also have a special thought for all my coaches. Needless to say, I have high ambitions for the French national team.” The German Football Association’s decision to turn to Klopp was no real surprise given the lack of viable alternatives. The 59-year-old previously re-established Liverpool as a force in English football, before joining Red Bull GmbH as Head of Global Soccer in January 2025. He will now work to restore the fortunes of a team which has struggled to live up to its billing since last winning the World Cup in 2014. Portugal will embark on a new era after Martínez stepped aside. Jorge Jesus has replaced him after spending the last three years in the Saudi Pro League. Jesus must determine how best to handle veteran forward Cristiano Ronaldo, who has given no indication that he will retire from international football. Martínez made the mistake of pandering to Ronaldo at the World Cup, and his decision ultimately resulted in them making an early exit from the tournament. Jesus, who managed Ronaldo at Al-Nassr last season, has suggested that the 41-year-old wi
Having Nicolas Raskin available to face Jagiellonia Bialystok is "positive for Rangers", says former Ibrox goalkeeper Cammy Bell. Belgium midfielder Raskin, 25, could make his first Rangers appearance of the season in Poland in Thursday's Europa League third qualifying round first leg. "It's a player that's come off the back of playing a lot of minutes at the World Cup for a top side as well," Bell told the BBC's Scottish Football Podcast.
Matthias Jaissle, Eddie Howe's replacement at Newcastle United, might not be too well known given that his only head coaching roles to date have been in Austria and Saudi Arabia. So who is the man arriving to take charge at St James' Park?
New head coach Matthias Jaissle says he "fully and unreservedly" believes in the Newcastle United project. The club have confirmed the 38-year-old's immediate appointment following the departure of Eddie Howe last month. Jaissle joins from Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli, where he lead the club to back-to-back AFC Champions League title, having previously been in charge at RB Salzburg for two seasons, securing the Austrian Bundesliga twice and also the Austrian Cup once.
While the Portuguese superstar continues preparing for another season in Saudi Arabia, developments away from the pitch have placed his growing soccer business interests in the spotlight alongside Al-Ittihad's summer recruitment strategy. Cristiano Ronaldo has unexpectedly found himself connected to one of the biggest transfer stories involving one of Al-Nassr’s fiercest Saudi Pro League rivals. While the Portuguese superstar continues preparing for another season in Saudi Arabia, developments away from the pitch have placed his growing soccer business interests in the spotlight alongside Al-Ittihad’s summer recruitment strategy. The latest move has raised eyebrows across the league, especially as Al-Ittihad moved quickly to strengthen its squad while Al-Nassr is still waiting to complete its first major signing of the transfer window. Ronaldo’s investment outside Saudi Arabia has now played an indirect role in helping one of the club’s biggest domestic competitors. Al-Ittihad has officially completed the signing of Senegal midfielder Dion Lopy from Spanish club Almeria, making him the club’s first overseas arrival of the summer transfer window. According to reports from Al-Riyadiah and several other outlets, the 24-year-old signed a long-term contract after the Tigers agreed to pay approximately $15 million, with the transfer fee scheduled to be paid in installments. The deal also reportedly includes a 10% sell-on clause in favor of Almeria should Lopy be transferred again in the future. The Tigers’ midfield is under the Black Panther’s command 🇸🇳🐅 pic.twitter.com/wDtEPNLc6U— Al-Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) August 5, 2026 The Saudi club confirmed the transfer through an announcement on its official social media channels, although it did not disclose the financial details. Ronaldo’s Almeria investment creates unexpected link The transfer carries an unusual twist because Almeria is partially owned by Cristiano Ronaldo. Earlier in 2026, Ronaldo acquired a 25% ownership stake in the Spanish club, expanding his soccer portfolio while continuing his playing career with Al-Nassr. That investment means one of Ronaldo’s clubs has now completed a profitable sale to Al-Ittihad, a direct Saudi Pro League rival that continues to challenge Al-Nassr for domestic honors. The timing has attracted attention because Al-Ittihad has already secured its first major foreign signing, while Al-Nassr has yet to bring in a new player during the current transfer window. Cristiano Ronaldo of team Al-Nassr FC competes for the ball with Ahmed Al-Julaydan of team Al-Ittihad FC The Senegal international joins Al-Ittihad following the departure of Brazilian midfielder Fabinho, whose contract expired at the end of last season. Lopy primarily operates as a defensive midfielder, although he is also capable of playing in a deeper central role. His versatility is expected to provide additional balance in midfield as the club prepares for the upcoming Saudi Pro League campaign. Since arriving at Almeria from Stade Reims in 2023, Lopy made 105 appearances, scoring four goals and contributing six assists across all competitions. Tansfer that benefits everyone The midfielder built a reputation in Spain through his physical presence, defensive awareness and ability to recover possession. During the 2025-26 campaign, he featured regularly in midfield while also contributing going forward with three goals and two assists in league competition. Statistical reports highlighted his impact in defensive situations, including strong numbers for tackles, interceptions, ball recoveries and aerial duels. His passing range also made him an attractive option for a possession-based side looking to strengthen its midfield. From the Land of Teranga 🇸🇳 to the Tigers’ Den 🐅 pic.twitter.com/9qz0cG9wQO— Al-Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) August 5, 2026 For Al-Ittihad, the signing addresses an important gap left by Fabinho’s departure while adding an experienced international midfielder entering
Cammy Devlin is impressed with Nico Raskin's impact in training since his World Cup exploits and hopes they get the chance to team up in Rangers' midfield. Raskin, who has been linked with an Ibrox exit this summer, is back in the Rangers squad for Thursday's Europa League third-round qualifier first leg against Jagiellonia Bialystok after helping Belgium reach the World Cup quarter-finals.
German officially announced as Howe’s successor‘This an incredibly compelling place to be’Matthias Jaissle has described Newcastle “as an incredibly compelling place to be” after finally formalising his managerial move from Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ahli.The 38-year-old German has been with his new players at their training camp in La Manga, southern Spain, since last Saturday but, despite also falling under the ownership of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Al-Ahli took time to provide Newcastle with some vital paperwork regarding the release of a head coach they were extremely reluctant to lose. Continue reading...
Marcus Rashford is contracted to Manchester United until 2028. United's transfer activity has slowed since Belgium midfielder Youri Tielemans joined them for £35m on 14 July. While uncertainty over Rashford's future is not the entire reason for this, it is a basic truth that United's search for a left-sided attacking player, or another striker, will be affected if he stays at the club because he can play in both positions.
With Milan crossing oceans to battle its eternal rival under the Australian sun, the glaring absence of their attacking superstar has ignited fierce speculation, completely dominating the narrative ahead of this unprecedented preseason war. A shadow has been cast over the historic first-ever Derby della Madonnina in the Southern Hemisphere, as American talisman Christian Pulisic is ruled out of the monumental clash against Inter. With Milan crossing oceans to battle its eternal rival under the Australian sun, the glaring absence of their attacking superstar has ignited fierce speculation, completely dominating the narrative ahead of this unprecedented preseason war. Milan and Inter will meet at Optus Stadium in Perth on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, as both clubs continue preparations for the new Serie A campaign. While the rivalry remains intense despite the friendly setting, the Rossoneri will enter the match without several important players, including Pulisic, as the club carefully manages its squad ahead of the new season. The match in Perth represents a historic moment because it will be the first time the Derby della Madonnina has been played in Australia. The two sides have previously taken their rivalry outside Italy, but this fixture marks the first meeting between the two clubs on Australian soil. Milan arrives at the match during a period of transition under new head coach Ruben Amorim. The club finished the 2025-26 Serie A season in fifth place with 70 points, missing out on Champions League qualification despite enjoying a 24-match unbeaten run during the campaign. However, Milan struggled during the final stages of the season, losing seven of its last 13 league matches and allowing fourth place to slip away. Christian Pulisic of AC Milan competes for the ball with Piotr Zielinski of FC Internazionale Inter, meanwhile, enters the derby in a stronger position after a successful campaign. The club won the Serie A title with 87 points and lifted the Coppa Italia, giving head coach Cristian Chivu a dream first full season in charge. The Nerazzurri also finished with the league’s best attack, scoring 89 goals, while conceding only 35 times. However, Christian Chivu will also be without several important players as the club manages its squad following the 2026 World Cup. The real reason Christian Pulisic is missing against Inter Pulisic is unavailable for Milan’s clash with Inter because he is recovering from an injury suffered during the United States’ 2026 World Cup campaign. The American winger did not travel with Milan’s squad for the Australian tour and instead remained at Milanello to continue his rehabilitation program. According to reports from The Athletic, Pulisic suffered the injury during the United States’ Round of 16 defeat against Belgium after attempting a shot and colliding with Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans. Although he initially tried to continue, the pain eventually forced him to leave the match. Medical examinations later revealed that the 27-year-old star suffered a bone bruise and a microfracture around the tibia-fibula area of his right leg. Earlier reports from Italian media also described the issue as a microfracture to his right fibula. Christian Pulisic #10 of the United States reacts after challenged by Youri Tielemans #8 of Belgium Despite the injury sounding serious, the recovery timeline has provided some optimism. Medical staff believe the problem requires weeks rather than months of recovery, meaning Pulisic could potentially return early in the new Serie A season. When could Pulisic return to action? Milan has decided against rushing Pulisic back into action and has created a controlled rehabilitation plan for the winger. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the club’s priority is ensuring that the American fully recovers before increasing his workload. Pulisic returned to Milanello after receiving additional time away following the World Cup. He completed medical checks before sta
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