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Gor Mahia coach Steven Polack has castigated the club for letting go of some of his key players whom he wanted to use in the coming season.

The British coach has admitted the financial situation at the club has forced him to start a rebuilding process after losing key players Joash Onyango, Charles Momanyi, Boniface Omondi, Peter Odhiambo, and Kenneth Muguna - and conceded it might affect the team's performance next season.

“That is not a good question to ask me, because you know from the word go, my intentions were to keep my best players for the new season,” Polack told Goal when asked why the league champions were losing key players this transfer window.

“I think you know why [the players are leaving] and why I am mad, all the players that are leaving they are quality players and I will be a selfish coach to say now I want to say I will want to keep them because you know the financial situation at the club.

“First of all, they have made their decisions to leave because of the circumstances the club finds itself in [in terms of finances], it is the big reason why they have left, I would have loved them to stay, but players come and go but the club will still be there.”

Polack continued: “It is a very big issue when you lose your quality players, it is a blow to any team be it at Barcelona, Arsenal or Real Madrid, it is not good to lose your quality players, but the problems we are facing now [financial issues] have even made the situation worse.”

On what he will do the fill the void left by the departing players, Polack said: “I don’t know, I don’t know what plans the club have, I have convened a meeting with the officials and I hope it will give us the direction now that the window is open.

“I have a number of players I want to sign but it can only happen with finances on the table, I am waiting for the office to give me direction, we might sign more players, I don’t know if we will, but I am waiting.”

K'Ogalo have only managed to sign keeper Levis Opiyo from Nairobi City Stars so far.

Liverpool have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Thiago Alcantara as Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has admitted that the club are willing to sell a prized asset for a "fair transfer fee".

Thiago only has one year left to run on his current contract with Bayern, and has been heavily linked with a move to Liverpool over the past few months.

Rummenigge confirmed in July that the 29-year-old has turned down the opportunity to extend his stay at the Allianz Arena, with it his desire to experience a new challenge away from Germany after seven successful years in the Bundesliga.

Reds boss Jurgen Klopp has admitted to being a great admirer of the Spain international, but Bayern have yet to receive any offers for a man who is reportedly being valued at around €35 million (£31m/$41m).

Bayern head coach Hansi Flick addressed speculation over Thiago's future before his side's Champions League win over Chelsea on Saturday, conceding that he is not sure whether the midfielder will still be on the club's books next season.

“If he wants to try again in the Premier League now, I totally understand," said Flick. "But it would be a shame because Thiago gives our game that certain something.

“That's why I would like, as a coach, to have him on the team for the next few years, but that's life. It would go on.”

Rummenigge has now doubled down on his previous comments regarding Thiago's current situation, while admitting that Bayern are ready to sanction his departure if an appropriate bid is lodged in the coming weeks.

"Regarding Thiago, it's known that he told us he wanted to do something new," the Bayern chief told German publication Bild.

"If a club approaches us that is willing to pay a fair transfer fee, we will work on it."

The Spanish playmaker played 70 minutes of Bayern's 4-1 last-16, second-leg victory against Chelsea, which ensured that they progressed to the quarter-finals of this season's European Cup 7-1 on aggregate.

Flick is now preparing his team for a huge last-eight clash with Barcelona in Lisbon on Friday, when Thiago will look to mastermind the downfall of the club that gave him his start in the professional game back in 2009.

Celtic have blasted Boli Bolingoli's "stupidity" and apologised to the SPFL for his "irresponsible action" after the player breached quarantine restrictions. 

Bolingoli travelled to Spain without the club's knowledge and did not follow quarantine rules when returning from the country. 

He then featured in Celtic's 1-1 draw against Kilmarnock on Sunday, with his indiscretion coming after two Aberdeen players had tested positive for coronavirus. 

Eight Aberdeen players issued an apology for breaking guidelines by visiting a bar in the aftermath of their opening-weekend defeat to Rangers. 

The Scottish government threatened to pause the Scottish Premiership season and Celtic did not hold back in their condemnation of Bolingoli, who the club said has tested negative for Covid-19. 

"Celtic Football Club unreservedly condemns and apologises for the behaviour of the player Boli Bolingoli in travelling to Spain without informing the club and in failing to observe quarantine restrictions," a statement from the club read. 

"It is difficult to imagine a more irresponsible action in current circumstances and we find it beyond explanation. The club will take immediate action through our own disciplinary procedures. 

"Celtic are in touch with every SPFL club, and with all relevant authorities, to apologise for the fact that one of our employees has created so much additional difficulty through his actions. 

"All of our playing and backroom staff have been tested twice for Covid-19 since this incident and all, including the player in question, have tested negative. While this comes as a relief to all concerned, it in no way diminishes the seriousness or stupidity of the player's actions. 

"Since the Covid-19 crisis began, we have had a safe and healthy squad of players, recording not one positive test. As a club, we have worked tirelessly to ensure a sustained, safe environment for all.    

"We have led the way in working with the football authorities and Scottish Government to establish the most rigorous, effective protocols and working practices, which ultimately led to the resumption of football. We could have done no more in this area. 

"It is a matter of the deepest regret to us that the behaviour of one individual has jeopardised that reputation and reflected discredit on football more generally." 

Bolingoli apologised for his error, saying: "I have made a huge mistake. I want to apologise to my manager, my team-mates, the supporters, everyone at Celtic and so many others for letting them down so badly. 

"I am guilty of a major error of judgement. I know what I did was wrong and I know that I must now deal with the consequences." 

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said Celtic and Aberdeen's upcoming matches will likely be postponed as a result of their players' conduct, telling reporters: "I regret that some football players seem incapable of living up to their responsibilities. We can't have privileged players just deciding they won't bother.

"Don't expect Aberdeen or Celtic to play over the coming week. This is a yellow card. Next time will be red."

Former Ghana League Clubs Association (Ghalca) president Alhaji Ali Raji believes poor handling of the dispute between 2019 Ghana Football Association (GFA) presidential aspirant Wilfred Kwaku Osei 'Palmer' and the football's governing body has left the nation's sport in jeopardy.

Seemingly on a new lease of life and calm after almost two years of impasse, Ghana football risks being thrown off balance once again as an imminent Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) judgement could land the nation's sport leadership in fresh trouble.

Palmer, president of former Ghana Premier League (GPL) club Tema Youth, was disqualified from contesting the October election which was ultimately won by Kurt Edwin Simeon Okraku.

Displeased, the former is seeking redress from the global tribunal.

A verdict in his favour could see the new football administration terminated after just 10 months at the helm of affairs.

"Palmer was not treated well. Kurt didn’t manage it well; there was a lot of ego at play on the part of the GFA and now we are at the mercy of CAS," Raji told Graphic Sports.

"If things were handled well by this current FA and the aggrieved parties were given a hearing and brought on board, we would not have to contend with CAS."

Ghana football landed in chaos in June 2018 when an Anas Aremeyaw Anas-inspired bribery and corruption scandal crashed the Kwesi Nyantakyi-led GFA administration.

The Government of Ghana, Fifa and Caf then jointly set up a Normalisation Committee (NC) to run the nation's sport in the interim and oversee a new presidential election to restore normalcy.

Ahead of the polls, the NC disqualified Palmer from contesting the election on the recommendation of a Vetting Committee for breaching financial regulations following a transfer of a Tema Youth player abroad.

After an unsuccessful internal appeal, Palmer hauled the GFA to CAS, seeking a new election altogether and for clearance to compete in the polls.

The global tribunal initially set July for the announcement of its verdict before first postponing to August 5 and now to September 1.

In Palmer's disqualification, six contenders went head-to-head for the FA presidency. 

Sheffield United defender George Baldock has named Liverpool forward Sadio Mane as the toughest and best opponent he faced has in the Premier League.

Baldock played every minute of the Blades’ games in the English top-flight, and he featured against the 2019 African Footballer of the Year twice during the 2019-20 campaign.

Mane sealed the Reds' 2-0 victory against Sheffield United at Anfield earlier in January and the England-born defender recalled how daunting the challenge was against the 28-year-old.

“I always say the toughest opponent by far was Sadio Mane,” Baldock told the Telegraph via Liverpool Echo.

“If he’s not running at you with the ball then he’s running in behind you without it.

"He’s coming short, going long, making diagonal runs. He’s always looking to get behind you and that’s a nightmare for you."

Mane ended the 2019-20 season with 18 goals and seven assists as Jurgen Klopp's men clinched the league crown, ending the Liverpool’s 30-year wait for a top-flight title.

Baldock, meanwhile, helped Sheffield United finished ninth in the Premier League and revealed his eagerness to play against Mane next season.

“Sometimes when wingers want the ball to feet, it can be slightly easier, but he’s just a world-class player and by far the best I’ve played against," he continued.

"I want to play against him again, 100 per cent, and have another go, I relish playing against the best players and I want to play at this level for the rest of my career.”

Thanks to his outstanding displays in the Premier League this season, the Senegal international is in the running for the Premier League Player of the Season award.

He battles teammates Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jordan Henderson, Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne, Southampton's Danny Ings, Leicester City's Jamie Vardy and Burnley goalkeeper Nick Pope for the honour.

Since he moved to Merseyside in 2016, Mane has established himself as a key player in the Liverpool side and he completes the formidable attacking trio of Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino.

He played a crucial role in helping the Reds win the Uefa Champions League title last season, and he was also involved in their Uefa Super Cup and Fifa Club World Cup triumphs last year.

Gwambina FC have appointed Mwinyi Zahera ahead of the new Tanzanian Mainland Premier League season.

The Congolese tactician is returning to handle a team in the top-flight after his stint with Young Africans (Yanga SC) in the 2018-19 season ended when he was fired for poor results, with Belgian Luc Eymael taking over.

The promoted side have now unveiled the tactician after he agreed to pen a two-year contract with options of extending the deal if the team keeps their status in the top-flight.

“We have reached an agreement with Zahera to coach our side in the coming season, he arrives with experience having coach Yanga previously and we wish him well as he takes up the challenge of making sure that we remain in the league,” the club said in a statement seen by Goal.

Zahera has promised to do his best and help the club achieve its targets.

“I know what it means handling a promoted side in the top tier, the expectations are very high because their main target is to make sure they keep their status first and then start building from there,” Zahera told reporters after being unveiled.

“I will do my best and I know with the support of the management, we will do well and hit the targets they have already set.”

Gwambina were promoted to the Tanzanian Mainland Premier League from the First Division League (FDL) after they beat Pamba FC 1-0 in their final match of the season.

The club, which was only founded a year ago, earned promotion with two matches to spare as they had accumulated 44 points from 20 matches.

Gwambina won 13 games, drew in five and lost in two other matches. 

Gwambina were promoted alongside Ihefu and Dodoma Jiji while Mbao FC were relegated alongside Alliance FC, Lipuli FC, Ndanda FC, and Singida United. 

Ghana U17 women's coach Yusif Basigi has explained reasons for the the team's inability to commence camp as originally scheduled. 

After receiving special clearance from the national government to regroup amid a ban on all contact sports, including football, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Black Princesses were unable to kick off preparations for an upcoming 2021 Fifa U17 Women's World Cup showdown with arch-rivals Nigeria on August 1 as planned. 

The U17 women's side joined the U20 women's team and the U17 male team to receive special dispensation to regroup ahead of various national assignments.

“We have not been able to go to start camping yet due to the safety measure being put in place by the Ghana Football Association as instructed by the government," Basigi told Happy FM. 

“I cannot tell when we will be given the go-ahead to be at camp but I am hopeful by the close of this week, something positive will come up. The players are all going to be tested before we begin preparations.

“For now, we have asked all the players to train on their own even before we resume camping."

Ghana's U17 women's clash with Nigeria is scheduled for October/November.

"Our female Under-20 and Under-17 national football teams have been given the clearance to go into their respective training camps to begin preparations towards their Fifa and Caf-sanctioned international matches, which begin in September," Akufo-Addo said in an address to the nation in June.

"Whilst in training, the playing, technical and management teams must observe strictly all the protocols issued by Government, Caf and Fifa against Covid-19. All other team and contact sports, and competitive sporting events remain suspended till further notice."

The first leg of the World Cup qualifier takes place in Ghana in October while the return fixture is set for Nigeria in November.

The matches were originally scheduled to take place in May but the coronavirus situation forced their postponement.

The Black Princesses are hoping to continue with their fine record as the only African nation to have secured qualification for all editions of the U17 Women's World Cup since its inception.

Legon Cities are looking to become a regular top three outfit in Ghana and to join the elite league of clubs in Africa.

Formerly known as Wa All Stars, the Ghana Premier League club rechristened to Legon Cities ahead of comments of the 2019-20 football season last December and moved their base from Northern Ghana to national capital Accra.

The new management has invested heavily into the club's development, one which has earned them applause for a successful re-branding exercise and saw them gain a significant rise in social media following.

"We have a mission to be one of the top three teams after each league [season] in Ghana and also become one of the top five teams in Africa. This is part of our five-year development plan," management member John Paintsil, a former Ghana international, told Graphic Sports Online.

"There is a projected action plan to construct our own stadium to add value to the club. We are also establishing our own training facilities, and hostels to accommodate our players to motivate them to excel.

"We also want to groom many of our young players to play actively for the various national teams in Ghana and at the international level.

"We have now started a football academy to develop our young and talented footballers to enable them to play prominently locally as well as for clubs in Europe and beyond.

"Within the five-year period, we should be able to complete all these laudable projects to transform Legon Cities to be one of the most attractive and successful football clubs in Africa."

As part of their new ambition, Legon Cities made a big signing by bringing in Ghana's 2014 World Cup goalkeeper Fatau Dauda ahead of the commencement of the 2019-20 season.

The club also brought in Bosnian-German coach Goran Barjaktarevic to lead their technical team.

Despite strides off the pitch, Cities struggled to perform in matches as they sat just one place above the relegation zone when the Premier League was cancelled at matchweek 15 due to the coronavirus pandemic in March.

The club has also seen a significant increase in their social media following, their official Twitter account, for example, increasing from 19 300 before the start of the season to 53 300 at the end of the term - all within just three months.

Alphonse Areola has returned to Paris Saint-Germain from Real Madrid amid reports he is set for a Premier League move.

The goalkeeper joined Los Blancos on a season-long loan last September to provide cover for number one Thibaut Courtois, with Keylor Navas having moved in the opposite direction in a permanent deal.

Areola made just nine appearances for La Liga's champions, though, and the Frenchman has been tipped to move on again with game time unlikely at PSG.

"Real Madrid confirmed they have brought Alphonse Areola's loan spell to an end," a team statement read.

"The club would like to thank Areola for his dedication, professionalism and exemplary conduct this season and wishes him the best of luck in this new chapter.

"Real Madrid also thanks PSG for the chance to have had Alphonse Areola as part of our squad."

Reports in the English media said 27-year-old Areola has bought a house in London ahead of a potential move to the Premier League.

Last month Areola's wife, Marrion, posted a picture on social media of the pair standing outside their new house in the English capital with the caption: "A few years ago our dream was to have our home in London. Our dream came true."

Chelsea have been credited with an interest as the Blues appear keen to find a buyer for Kepa Arrizabalaga, who was dropped for the final Premier League game of the season against Wolves as well as the Champions League defeat to Bayern Munich last week.

Arsenal were also touted as a potential destination to provide extra cover after Emiliano Martinez deputised when Bernd Leno sustained a knee injury in June, although the Argentinian's brilliant performances mean such a scenario may be unlikely.

France international Areola joined PSG's youth academy at the age of 16 and made his first-team debut in 2013 before being sent on loan to Lens followed by temporary spells at Bastia and Villarreal.

He returned to the French capital to compete with Kevin Trapp for a place in the starting XI and went on to feature 107 times for the club before the switch to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Josh Onomah and Neeskens Kebano have been nominated for Fulham Player and Goal of the Season awards.  

Onomah teamed up with the Craven Cottage outfit last summer from Tottenham Hotspur as part of the £25 million transfer that saw Ryan Sessegnon join Spurs.

The Anglo-Nigerian immediately became a key component of the Cottagers side and featured in 37 appearances across all competitions, scoring four goals and providing three assists.

The midfielder played 31 Championship games and made three appearances in the playoffs to help Scott Parker’s men secure promotion to the Premier League.

His performances in the campaign have seen him nominated for the best player of the season, while his well-struck effort in their playoff semi-final victory over Cardiff City has been shortlisted for the best goal in the campaign.

The 23-year-old will compete for the awards with his other teammates including the Democratic Republic of the Congo international Kebano.

Kebano has been with Fulham since the summer of 2016 when he arrived from Belgian First Division A side Genk.

The 28-year-old winger scored five goals in 19 appearances, including two in the promotion playoffs as his contribution for the Cottagers in the campaign.

Kobano is shortlisted for the best player award while his strikes against Wigan Athletic and Cardiff have also been nominated for the Goal of the Season.

While the winger has represented the Democratic Republic of the Congo 19 times, Onomah is yet to make his international debut.

The 23-year-old has featured for England U16, U17, U18, U19, U20 and U21 but he still eligible to play for Nigeria.

Onomah will join the likes of Victor Moses, Alex Iwobi, Shola Ameobi and Ola Aina who previously starred for the European country before representing the Super Eagles, should he end up switching his allegiance.

The African stars will be expected to play a key role for Fulham in the 2020-21 Premier League season, which begins on September 12.

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) presidential candidate Sam Nyamweya has hit out at the current office for dishonesty regarding information sharing from world football governing body Fifa.

The Federation opted to share the letter from Fifa to secretary-general Barry Otieno dated August 5 regarding the elections, while the ones dated July 11 and August 2 were not shared.

The administrator believes the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT) March 17 ruling should also be exercised as a whole and not a mere part which favours the current regime.

"For the purpose of openness and transparency and for us to be able to have a clear view, the email letters of August 2 and the letter of July 11 should have been made public," Nyamweya said in a statement obtained by Goal. 

"Reading from the contents of this email letter, the author selectively and partially chooses to implement the [SDT] ruling."

The former Federation president states, per the ruling, the whole FKF electoral process was nullified. This included all the processes leading to the purported elections, the voter register and the shortlisted candidates fell on the same premise.  

"It is clear that the ruling by the Sports Disputes tribunal is emphatic on the nullification of the FKF electoral process and therefore the call for a fresh electoral process is not anything new," he continued.

"For a fresh FKF electoral process to commence on the right footing, such a process should include a comprehensive review... by the stakeholders... [and] should generate a new all-inclusive voter register." 

Nyamweya is demanding a new inclusive register which should include all clubs from the grassroots.

He has also pointed out that the content of the letter is not addressed to the Electoral Board.

"[The letter] is not in any way addressed to the FKF Electoral Board nor its action anticipated. It is therefore unethical and erroneous for the Chairperson of the Board to claim that the directives were directed to the board," he maintained.  

"The purported attempt by the FKF Electoral Board to introduce and or amend the eligibility criteria is illegal, ultra vires and void.  

"We reject the road map given by the FKF Electoral Board. We treat it as a well-orchestrated plot hatched by the incumbent, executed by his hirelings masquerading as Board officials, with the ultimate goal of rigging in the incumbent and his cronies."

Nyamweya concludes by stating a consultative meeting with all the stakeholders is the only way forward.

"We the football stakeholders hold the view and right that only an all-inclusive roundtable stakeholders forum as advocated and driven by the Sports Disputes Tribunal can unlock the electoral impasse," he concluded.

"We remain committed to the process of having transparent, free, fair, credible, and verifiable FKF elections."  

Axel Witsel is convinced that Manchester United-linked Jadon Sancho will remain at Borussia Dortmund after Michael Zorc's insistence that the winger will not be sold this summer.

Sancho has reportedly reached an agreement to sign a five-year contract at Old Trafford worth £220,000 a week, but Dortmund's valuation of the youngster is proving to be a sticking point in negotiations with United.

Goal has learned that Dortmund are holding out for a final fee of €120 million (£108m/$142m) for a prized asset, who recorded 20 goals and 20 assists for the club in 2019-20.

Earlier this month, Dortmund managing director Hans-Joachim Watzke denied having received any offers for the England international, and Zorc moved to squash speculation surrounding his future conclusively on Monday.

Speaking ahead of the club's pre-season training camp, Dortmund's sporting director told reporters: "Jadon Sancho will play with us next season. The decision is final. I think that answers all the questions."

Zorc's comments haven't dissuaded United from finalising a deal for Sancho, who is thought to be eager to join up with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's squad,  but Witsel is now certain that he will continue to play alongside the talented attacker for at least one more year.

"He stays and we are all happy," the Dortmund midfielder told Sky Sports . "Last year and the first year when I came he’s been one of the most important players offensively for our team.

"This is really good news for us to keep him – at a minimum – one more season."

Dortmund centre-back Mats Hummels also expressed his delight after hearing Zorc's update on Sancho, as he told the club's official website : "He can be the player who makes the difference. I’m happy that he is staying."

Solskjaer was quizzed on United's interest in the 20-year-old once again after watching his side beat Copenhagen 1-0 in the quarter-finals of the Europa League.

The Norwegian refused to be drawn on his transfer plans as he stated in his post-match interview: "I can't comment on other team's players, I can't do that."

Sancho has scored 34 goals in 99 appearances across all competitions for Dortmund since joining the club from Manchester City in 2017, and is currently tied to remain at Westfalenstadion through to 2023.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic took time out of his summer holiday to wind up England fans by recreating his incredible goal for Sweden in their 4-2 win in 2012.

The striker netted all four of his side's goals as they beat the Three Lions at the Friends Arena in an international friendly that November.

Ibrahimovic's most impressive goal of the game was a stunning overhead kick from distance which flew over Joe Hart and in after the goalkeeper's poor clearance.

The former Manchester United, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward won the Puskas Award in 2013 for the goal and he is clearly still revelling in the glory. 

The ex-Sweden international posted a video on social media of him leaping out of the water to send the ball flying in a re-enactment of his goal against England.

He added the caption: "God Save the Queen".

Then England boss Roy Hodgson was shocked to see the veteran forward pull off the feat, telling reporters afterwards that it was a "work of art".

He added: "It's a wonderful goal to see on a football field, though I would rather have seen it against someone else."

Ibrahimovic explained his thinking after the game: "Hart was a long way out and I was just trying to get it into the goal. I was on the ground when it was on the way in.

"I saw a defender sliding in to try to get rid of it and I wanted to scream 'No' but the ball went in."

The 38-year-old is currently contracted to AC Milan after returning to the San Siro side in January.

His deal with the Rossoneri expires at the end of August, but the club are trying to convince him to extend, and director Paolo Maldini admits it will not be easy to tie him down.

"Zlatan is part of this project," he said earlier this month. "It won't be an easy negotiation, but we fully intend to keep him with us. We have many young players who can grow exponentially with Ibra by their side."

Victor Lindelof was critical of Manchester United’s performance against Copenhagen in the Europa League quarter-final but is confident they have what it takes to win the tournament.

The Swede came off the bench in the second half of United’s nervy 1-0 win in Cologne on Monday night, with Bruno Fernandes penalty in extra time proving to be the difference.

And Lindelof knows the Red Devils will have to improve if they are to reach the final of the competition, with Wolves or Sevilla next up for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side in the semi-final.

"I think we could have done a lot of things better but when we had the ball they made it difficult for us," Lindelof said after the game.

"Sometimes they pressed high and when they didn't they dropped deep and defended compact as a unit. It was hard to create chances there but I think we should have scored a few more goals. It is very difficult to say just why [United struggled]. It happens sometimes in football.

"Of course it's been a long season but we played a quarter-final in a European Cup so I think everyone had to be ready for that. Like I said, it happens sometimes in football that you don't perform at the level you want to. But the important thing is that we won and we're through to the semi-finals."

The victory means Solskjaer’s side have reached the semi-final of three competitions this season and they will be hoping it's third time lucky in reaching a final, having missed out in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.

And Lindelof is confident they have learned lessons from their previous two semi-final defeats, believing that they have the mentality and ability to go all the way and lift the trophy.

"I think we have a lot of confidence in the team right now. We've been performing to a very high level, especially after the league ended," the 26-year-old added.

"We got the third spot and we've been playing some really, really good football. I think everybody has a lot of confidence and we know we can do some great things.

"Obviously even if we play against Sevilla or Wolves, they are two tough teams but we're going to be ready and hopefully we can go out and perform a really, really good game."

Should United beat Wolves or Sevilla, they will then face either Inter, Shakhtar Donetsk or Basel in the final on August 21.

FC Copenhagen captain Zeca expressed his gratitude to Manchester United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after Monday's Europa League quarter-final tie.

The Red Devils beat the Danish side 1-0 to progress to the last four of the competition, with midfielder Bruno Fernandes scoring the decisive goal from a penalty in the first half of extra time.

Despite his side's disappointment, United supporter Zeca took the opportunity to praise the coach for the progress the team have made since he took over, while Solskjaer turned it into an embarrassing moment for his star player Fernandes.

"Thank you very much for everything you're doing with Manchester United," Zeca said to Solskjaer when he came up to shake his hand after the final whistle.

"We're trying to get it back. He's helping. This boy is helping," the United boss replied, gesturing towards Fernandes as the midfielder walked alongside them smiling.

"He's a little bit angry that I was going to take him off. He was giving you the ball all the time."

Zeca revealed his love for the Old Trafford side in the build-up to the encounter in Germany, reserving particular praise for Portuguese star Fernandes, who went on to make the difference on Monday.

"United have been my favourite team since I was little. My dream was to play at Old Trafford, so it's a bit of a shame that we play in Germany," he told Danish newspaper  Bold earlier last week.

"I love Bruno Fernandes. He is really good, and one player cannot shut him down, so we must work well together as a team to succeed."

United will meet the winner of Tuesday's clash between Sevilla and Wolves in the final four of the Europa League, while Inter will face either Shakhtar Donetsk or Basel in the other semi-final.

"Now it's time to hopefully take the next step and go to the final and hopefully win it," Solskjaer said in the wake of the win over Copenhagen. "It's Wolves or Sevilla, two good teams, we don't mind."

For Cyriel Dessers, the 2019/20 season may be reviewed with a tinge of sadness given a hugely prolific campaign with Heracles Almelo was truncated with eight games to go.

The 25-year-old was joint-top scorer in the Eredivisie after 26 games, level with Feyenoord’s Steven Berghuis, even though he was playing in a side with lesser technical quality. Interestingly, of his haul, only one came from the penalty spot, whereas Berghuis netted seven from 12 yards. While this isn’t a slight on penalties, given they still have to be converted, it remains arguably the easiest way to score.

Last year’s turnaround was pleasing to see given he’d endured a frustrating 18/19 at Utrecht where he made only 11 appearances all season, scoring three goals. This immediately put him on Nigerians’ radar given he’s eligible to represent the West African nation through his mother, and his willingness to play for the country was music to the ears of Super Eagles supporters.

“I know it's a strong ambition of mine, but sometimes you need to stay focused and not get distracted as a professional footballer,” Dessers told BBC Sport in February. "Everyone in the family is hoping — and to be involved with Nigeria would be incredibly amazing for my career. To get a chance to stand at the door is a step forward.”

Those words were gratifying to hear as Nigerians had grown tired and frustrated with the tendency to chase players not interested in representing the three-time African champions. This time, however, it was no fool’s errand on the Nigeria Football Federation’s part with the forward enthused by the prospect of representing the Super Eagles.

He’d secured a 'dream' call-up for Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Sierra Leone in March but the pandemic put his aspirations on ice.

Dessers has since reiterated his desire to play for Gernot Rohr’s team after recent reports claimed he’d been in contact with Belgium, the country of his birth.

“They made a story from nothing. I didn’t even talk with Belgium and then they make a story,” Dessers told AOI last week “I said I hoped for a call [from Nigeria] in September, but that’s not even sure. That’s the coach who decides, it’s not in my hands. It’s just the click-bait sites who take things out of context and make juicy titles.”

In truth, those words will have further endeared him to the African nation’s followers, who probably kept a keen eye on his Genk debut vs Zulte Waregam on Sunday afternoon. He scored from the spot to complete the away side’s comeback win, but his involvement in countryman Paul Onuachu’s equalizer was striking.

Dessers made the most of a long punt downfield from Tobe Leysen, held the ball up well to occupy the home side’s centre-backs Olivier Deschacht and Ewoud Pletinckx. This allowed Onuachu ghost into the box unmarked, and the towering forward finished expertly on his weaker foot to level for the Smurfs nearly 20 minutes after his introduction.

The turnaround was just what the doctor ordered for Hannes Wolf’s side, who wanted to begin this campaign with a win after last season’s disastrous title defence. De Smurfen, led to a first title in eight years by Philippe Clement, were disappointingly in seventh before the First Division was halted and they’ll hope their new main striker is as successful as Mbwana Samatta was before the Tanzania striker’s move to Aston Villa in January.

From a Nigerian perspective, the emergence of Dessers has opened up more possibilities for Rohr, given the upward trajectory of current main striker Victor Osimhen, who was the undoubted star of 2019. After Odion Ighalo’s retirement, there were doubts as to where the goals will come from but Osimhen’s expedited development, Dessers’ rise to prominence and even Kelechi Iheanacho's mini-resurgence at Leicester City proves those fears were somewhat premature.

Still, as an observer, returning to Belgium seemed a bizarre choice by the ex-Heracles man. The First Division isn’t a significantly stronger league than the Eredivisie, evidenced by Uefa’s coefficient ranking of Belgium (eighth) and the Netherlands (ninth) at the start of 19/20.

Genk haven’t also been consistent participants in the Champions League – this season was their first appearance the UCL in eight years – so it was strange that Dessers opted to return to the Belgian top flight when he, maybe, could have waited for that big move to one of Europe’s top five leagues.

At 25, he’s about to enter his prime years, and a sideways move to the First Division not only seemed ill-advised but also short-sighted.

A lot can change in a year, as Osimhen’s last 12-to-18 months have proved. Regardless, the Napoli man’s age and higher ceiling were major elements on his side and the jury remains out on whether Dessers can truly be Nigeria’s star of 2021.

Babu Salim has stated he has not degraded himself by leaving his head coach role at Western Stima and joining Wazito FC as an assistant coach.

Prior to his recent move, the tactician served as the head coach for Sony Sugar as well and some people have reportedly questioned his ambitions after what they felt is a step behind.

"Coming to Wazito does not mean I have degraded myself as some critics put it," Babu told Goal on Tuesday.

"It is another challenge for me and I am taking it with both hands. Sometimes in life, some decisions need you to be bold and this is one of them, it needed me to be bold."

The youthful tactician admits a big challenge awaits him but he is keen helping his new team perform well.

"Stability is what we are going for first to ensure the team starts delivering," Babu continued.

"As you are aware, my main job is to assist [Fred] Ambani who is my head coach. I understand the immense pressure for the team to perform and I am ready for it.

"We are building a team that will consistently perform and compete in all the competitions we will be taking part in."

So what was the reaction of Western Stima owner Laban Jobita when he learned of [Babu's] exit?

"The truth is that I have not told him I am leaving? This has just happened and I could not tell him over the phone because of my respect for him," he revealed.

"I will meet him in person either [Tuesday] or Wednesday and discuss the move and explain why I had to take it. He is an understanding person and I believe he will support my move."

Babu was confirmed on Monday, August 10, and spoke of his ambition at the club.

"Joining Wazito is a great opportunity because I am joining a team with big ambitions and I want to be successful here. My role is that of an assistant coach and my duty is to help the head coach, that is what I will stick to," he concluded. 

Bruno Fernandes netted an extra-time penalty as Manchester United edged past Copenhagen and into the semi-finals of the Europa League with a 1-0 win.

United secured Champions League qualification through their Premier League position but headed to Germany hoping to secure a first piece of silverware for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as manager.

The Old Trafford outfit were frustrated for long periods on Monday, struggling to negotiate the woodwork, a series of VAR reviews that repeatedly found fairly in Copenhagen's favour and a remarkable display from goalkeeper Karl-Johan Johnsson.

But Stale Solbakken's side - playing their first major European quarter-final - could not hold out and, with Anthony Martial in inspired form, Fernandes settled the one-legged tie with 95 minutes on the clock.

United survived a couple of early scares, but they then looked to have been awarded a spot-kick as Martial was bundled over, only for a VAR check to identify an offside against Harry Maguire in the build-up.

The technology went against United again in first-half stoppage time. Mason Greenwood raced through and fired into the net via the post but, like Maguire, had been stationed beyond the last defender.

That same theme continued after the break as Greenwood's shot bounced back out off the foot of the post and Marcus Rashford, on the rebound, was flagged offside when he routinely netted.

And the woodwork foiled United once more with 27 minutes remaining as Fernandes sent a dipping drive cannoning into the opposite upright.

But then Martial came to the fore. Johnsson got a strong right hand to a swirling strike and the United forward was denied a dazzling solo effort by Victor Nelsson's crunching last-gasp challenge that took the match into extra-time.

Johnsson blocked with his legs as Martial prodded goalwards from a tight angle and then won that battle again as the dominant striker danced through.

The goalkeeper's hard work was swiftly undone, though, as Andreas Bjelland knocked Martial to the ground and Fernandes proved clinical from the penalty spot.

Johnsson was determined to keep Copenhagen in contention and saved smartly from Mata, then instinctively from Fernandes and finally, with the end of his toe, from Mata once more. It was not enough to rescue a result.

What does it mean? Red Devils survive rollercoaster

United started the match by gifting Copenhagen two presentable chances, while they astonishingly netted only once, but this developed into an encouraging performance.

Admittedly against tiring opponents, Solskjaer's men controlled the tempo and created chance after chance, clinching a fine if frustrating win.

Martial both mesmerising and maddening

The best and worst of United's number nine was in evidence as he rose to the occasion but somehow failed to score. Relatively quiet until the closing stages of normal time, Martial soon had the ball on a string as he weaved in and out of despairing challenges, only to find Johnsson his equal time and again.

Contest catches up with Copenhagen

The underdogs were good value for parity through 80 minutes, even as they rode their luck, with United enduring the odd nervy moment at the other end.

But their exertion eventually told as Bjelland conceded a slightly harsh penalty. Johnsson was required to make a ludicrous 13 saves by the final whistle.

Key Opta Facts

- United have reached the Europa League semi-finals for the second time in the last four seasons – most recently managing to do so in 2016-17 when they went on to win the competition under Jose Mourinho.

- United have kept a clean sheet in 73 per cent of their games under Solskjaer in the Europa League (8/11); the highest percentage of any manager to have taken charge of 10+ games at a club in the competition.

- Fernandes has scored 100 per cent of the 13 penalties he has taken in 2019-20 for both Sporting CP (6) and current club United (7).

- United's opener was the 21st penalty they have been awarded this season, more than any other side within the top five European leagues in 2019-20.

- Since the start of the 2017-18 Europa League, Fernandes (13 goals, 8 assists) has had a direct hand in 21 goals in the competition, more than any other player during this period.

- Johnsson made 13 saves this evening, the joint-most by a goalkeeper in a single Europa League game since the competition's re-branding in 2009-10.

What's next?

United are through to face either Wolves or Sevilla, semi-final opponents against whom they surely cannot afford to be so profligate.

Romelu Lukaku and Nicolo Barella were on target as Inter saw off Bayer Leverkusen 2-1 to reach the Europa League semi-finals.

Inter led 2-0 inside 21 minutes at Merkur Spielarena in Dusseldorf – Barella opening the scoring before Lukaku squeezed in a record-setting goal.

Leverkusen star Kai Havertz pulled one back three minutes later, with VAR then denying Lukaku – the first player to score in nine successive UEFA Cup or Europa League games – the chance to double his tally from the spot, a fate he would suffer again in second-half stoppage time.

Alexis Sanchez went close to marking his first appearance since signing permanently for Inter with a goal midway through the first half, but the Nerazzurri's blistering start ultimately proved enough to book their semi-final place.

In a frantic opening, it was Inter who went ahead after 15 minutes – Barella sending a brilliant outside-of-the-boot finish into the bottom-left corner.

Barella latched onto a rebound from a blocked Lukaku shot for Inter's opener, but the former Manchester United striker had his goal six minutes later when he held off Edmond Tapsoba and turned in a low finish.

Lukaku squandered a golden chance to extend Inter's lead moments later, and he was swiftly made to pay as Havertz drilled in from close range.

Momentum appeared to have swung back in Inter's favour within two minutes – Daley Sinkgraven adjudged to have handled in the area – but referee Carlos del Cerro Grande changed his decision after consulting VAR.

Roberto Gagliardini might have restored Inter's two-goal cushion following the restart, had Lukaku not got in the way of his effort.

Lukas Hradecky made fine saves to deny Sanchez – who played on through an apparent hamstring injury suffered late on – and Victor Moses as Inter pressed for a third, though it looked as if they would have the final say when Christian Eriksen was awarded a penalty.

However, VAR worked against Inter for a second time, the referee overturning his initial decision due to an accidental handball from Barella but, fortunately for Inter, they were not made to rue the call. 

What does it mean? Inter looking strong

Leverkusen were arguably the strongest side Inter would have to face in this side of the draw, and the Nerazzurri have passed the test. While Shakhtar Donetsk or Basel will be no pushovers, Conte's side should be confident of reaching their first European final since 2010.

Record-setting Lukaku rolls on

With his brilliantly taken goal, Lukaku cemented himself in the Europa League record books, adding another accolade to what has been a fantastic first season with Inter.

Tah and Tapsoba found lacking

With Sven Bender suffering a late injury, Peter Bosz was left without one of his most experienced players, and the former Borussia Dortmund man was certainly missed as Inter got at Leverkusen's youthful centre-back pairing of Jonathan Tah and Tapsoba time and time again.

Key Opta Facts

- Leverkusen have been eliminated in each of their last three quarter-final appearances in the UEFA Cup/Europa League, having previously exited against Osasuna in 2006-07 and Zenit St Petersburg in 2007-08. 

- Inter are the first Italian team to reach the semi-finals of the Europa League since 2014-15 (Napoli and Fiorentina), while two of the four Italian teams to do so in the competition have been managed by Antonio Conte (also Juventus in 2013-14).

- Romelu Lukaku has been directly involved in nine goals in European competition for Inter this season (six goals and three assists); excluding qualifiers, the most by a player for the club in a single season since Samuel Eto'o in 2010/11 (13).

- Among players aged 21 or under within the top five European leagues, only Kylian Mbappe (69) has scored more goals than Bayer Leverkusen's Kai Havertz (38) across all competitions since the start of last season.

- Inter's Ashley Young made his 50th appearance in major European competitions (excluding qualifiers), while he has finished on the winning side in exactly half of those games (25/50).

What's next?

Shakhtar or Basel, who play on Tuesday, will face Inter on August 17. Leverkusen, meanwhile, will now prepare for the new Bundesliga season, which starts in September.