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Newcastle have confirmed the permanent signing of midfielder Joe Willock from Arsenal in a deal that could be worth up to £25 million ($35m).

The 21-year-old starred for the Magpies on a half-season loan from the Gunners last term, scoring eight goals after joining the club in January.

Willock has signed a long-term deal with Newcastle and will wear the No 28 shirt, as he did last term.

What was said?

"I'm buzzing to be here," Willock told Newcastle's official website. "I loved my time here last season and I'm really happy to be back and to be a Newcastle United player.

"Leaving Arsenal is obviously a big step, and I'd like to thank everyone involved with the club for all their support over the years, but this is the right move to the right club at the right time for me.

"I only got one chance to play in front of a smaller number of Newcastle fans as a home player last season, so I can't wait to step out in front of a packed St. James' Park and experience that atmosphere."

Head coach Steve Bruce added: "I'm absolutely delighted to secure our No 1 target. We have had to be patient and persistent, but it has been worth the wait to bring Joe back."

Why did Arsenal let Willock go?

Willock developed through Arsenal's academy and emerged as one of the club's most talented midfield prospects, making his senior debut in the 2017-18 season. The midfielder broke through in 2019-20 by making 44 appearances for the club, most of which came off the bench. 

Arsenal were unable to offer Willock a guaranteed run of starts last term, which saw him make the move to Newcastle for the second half of the campaign.

The Gunners are eyeing a move for another attacking midfielder before the transfer window shuts, with Martin Odegaard and James Maddison on the agenda.

Goal has confirmed that Real Madrid are open to selling Odegaard for €40 million (£34m/$47m) this summer, with Arsenal now poised to accelerate transfer talks.

In order to fund a move for either Odegaard or Maddison, Arsenal needed to raise funds through sales, which has led to Willock's departure.

Further reading

Kaizer Chiefs attacker Khama Billiat says he is well and feels fresh after coming back from injury.

The Zimbabwe international was substituted in Amakhosi's Carling Black Label Cup win over Orlando Pirates after sustaining an injury.

It was a worry for the supporters considering his extended time on the sidelines last season owing to the same reason.

He has now assured the fans he is okay ahead of the MTN8 quarter-final on Sunday against Mamelodi Sundowns.

It is amazing to be back

"It has been difficult for me, but for the first time I am feeling good, fresh and it is just refreshing to be training with everyone in the tactical side of the game," Billiat told the media ahead of the Sunday game.

"It is just amazing to be training, meeting the guys every day, and doing what we love to do.

"I do not want to give myself a lot of pressure because we have good players who can change the game at any given time. It is going to be a different season for the supporters, we are going to give our best and ensure we bring a trophy home."

'The guys are looking sharp'

The attacker has further explained the energy in the team, stating everybody is working towards the right goal.

"I think it is so refreshing to have the guys. the energy is different, and the coach," Billiat continued.

"It is a very good start; we know Sundowns are not an easy team to play against and it is the reason why we need to get everything from the coach before the weekend.

"I strongly believe we are feeling good and we are working towards the right goal. It is just interesting to come to training every day and we see a lot of smiles. The guys are looking so sharp.

"Coming to a club like this, you want to be part of good history... we are still very hungry [to win trophies] and this is a right chance to start with a good result in the MTN8.

"We appreciate the support the fans have been giving us through thin and thick, and we want to repay them this season."

Last season, Sundowns won the PSL while Chiefs finished eighth. 

Chelsea have apologised to their angry supporters after failing to complete work on adding rail seating at Stamford Bridge.

It means some fans will miss the opening match of the season against Crystal Palace despite having season tickets.

Issues in the Matthew Harding Lower Stand mean Chelsea's stadium won't be quite full for their opening Premier League game of the season.

What have Chelsea said?

"We realise we have let these supporters down and sincerely apologise for the fact this has happened," read a club statement about the seating issue.

"If you are a season ticket holder you will receive a pro-rata refund for the match plus a refund of any reasonable pre-booked travel costs. Affected members will receive a full refund, plus a refund of any reasonable pre-booked travel costs.

"All affected season tickets holders and members will retain loyalty points for this match. In addition, after discussions with the Fans Forum and several supporter groups, affected season ticket holders and members will also receive a complimentary ticket to one of the first three home Champions League Group stage games this season.

"You will be contacted at the end of next week regarding the process for redeeming this.

"When we embarked upon this project we had detailed plans to complete it on time and written undertakings from the manufacturer they could meet the schedule. Everyone at the club is very upset that we weren’t able to achieve this and recognise that we should have done."

How have supporters reacted?

The Chelsea Supporters' Trust (CST), which is the biggest fan organisation at the club, has spoken of their anger.

"The Chelsea Supporters’ Trust is angered and frustrated that a number of supporters with season tickets have been let down by CFC and their contractors," a statement read. "This is the first Premier League game with full capacity in over 17 months and it is unacceptable that deadlines have not been met.

"We understand the contractors used have previously encountered delays on a similar project. As with the decision to join the Super League, this again calls into question the extent to which the club undertakes due diligence with their decision-making process.

"We appreciate that supply and delivery issues have caused delays, however it is totally unforgivable that supporters have been left in this position.

"The club committed in the spring to do better for their supporters and stated that they wanted to rebuild a connection with supporters after the Super League fiasco. It is really poor that the first opportunity to do so has tarnished."

Further reading

Liverpool legend John Barnes has predicted Mohamed Salah will sign a new long-term contract at Liverpool that takes him through to at least 2026.

A flurry of new deals have been thrashed out at Anfield this summer, with Virgil van Dijk following Alisson, Fabinho and Trent Alexander-Arnold in penning fresh terms.

Egyptian talisman Salah is among the next in line for discussions after four goal-laden seasons on Merseyside, and Barnes believes the 29-year-old will commit to the Reds.

What has been said?

Liverpool icon Barnes, speaking in association with BonusCodeBets, told Goal: "With Mohamed Salah set to sign a new long-term contract at Liverpool, which will take him up to the age of 34 or 35, I’d imagine this would be his final big contract. There’s a great chance he'll remain at Anfield long-term.

"If Salah signs this new deal, maybe when he’s 35 he might leave for China or Qatar. But right now, he has his best years ahead of him, and it's great news for Liverpool if they get a deal done."

Do Liverpool need to add in attack?

Keeping Salah around would be of obvious benefit to Liverpool, as he has scored 125 goals in 203 appearances for the club.

There have however been suggestions another attacker would not go amiss in Jurgen Klopp's squad, with pressure still being piled on the established front three.

Barnes is not convinced that a deal needs to be done in the current window, with faith being shown in Salah, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and their supporting cast.

"Liverpool don’t need another number nine to compete with Roberto Firmino or to cover potential injuries," Barnes said. "They already have Diogo Jota and Sadio Mane, who can play down the middle. Mohamed Salah also scores plenty, so they have viable options as a replacement if Firmino is off the pitch.  

"Divock Origi is still at the club, and as much as we expected him to be gone, Xherdan Shaqiri remains too. With all these options, attacking reinforcements won’t be a priority for Liverpool in the summer window."

Liverpool, who Klopp hinting at a quiet run to the next recruitment deadline, are set to open their 2021-22 Premier League campaign on Saturday away at newly-promoted Norwich.

Further reading

Tusker FC took a massive step towards their 12th Football Kenya Federation Premier League title after a 2-0 win over Kakamega Homeboyz.

In a match played at Ruaraka Grounds on Thursday, evening, an own goal by Brian Eshihanda and a Michael Madoya strike was all the Brewers needed to open a three-point gap on top of the table.

The visitors started the match on a high note and were almost rewarded inside three minutes. A swift counter-attack ended with Emery Mvuyekure well beaten, but Vincent Ngesa was there to clear the ball off the line.

David Odhiambo would have, at least, connected the rebound but he shot over from close range. 

That was a dangerous sign and the Brewers had to settle fast. They eventually did and ensured they attacked with every chance that came their way.

However, they had to wait until the 38th minute before getting their goal. Homeboyz conceded a free-kick which was delivered by Rodgers Aloro. Henry Meja flicked it but Francis Omondi was there to make a goal-line clearance. 

Unfortunately, for him, the ball hit fellow defender Eshihanda and bounced into the back of the net.

Two minutes later, the league leaders doubled the advantage. This time around, it was Madoya who rose highest to connect an Aloro cross and ensure his team went to the break with a two-goal advantage.

Neither of the two teams would get a goal after the break. 

KCB's ambitions of winning their maiden title suffered a major blow after losing 2-1 away to Vihiga United. Samuel Mwangi opened the scoring for the Bankers in the 14th minute, but two minutes later, Lawrence Luvanda equalised.

The winner came in the 34th minute through Otieno Isaac. KCB are now second on 58 points, while Tusker lead the race for the title with 61.

Kariobangi Sharks defeated Nzoia Sugar 3-1.

Tusker XI: Emery Mvuyekure, Jimmy Mbugua, Hillary Wandera, Rodgers Aloro, Eugene Asike, Vincent Ngesa, Luke Namanda, Kevin Okoth, Henry Meja, Michael Madoya, Boniface Muchiri  

Subs: Michael Wanjala, Sammy Meja, Erick Ambunya, Humphrey Mieno, Apollo Otieno, Jackson Macharia, Christopher Ochieng, Brian Marita, George Ogutu. 

Kakamega Homeboyz XI: David Otieno, Benjamin Oketch, Collins Odhiambo, Brian Eshihanda, George Odiwuor, Francis Omondi, Stephen Mukongolo, Stephen Opoku, Derrick Onyango, Shami Mwinyi, David Odhiambo. 

Subs: Geoffrey Oputi, Thomas Wainaina, Sylvester Owino, Stephen Etyang, Estone Esiye, Fasanmi Ojo, Emmanuel Amwehe

The agent of Arsenal striker Alexandre Lacazette claims to have had no contact with Roma as speculation continues to link his client with a move to Serie A.

The France international striker has seen his future in north London speculated upon for some time, with an expiring contract ticking the rumour mill into overdrive.

Former Chelsea and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho, now in charge at Stadio Olimpico, is said to be keen on doing a deal for Lacazette but no formal approach has been made from the Italian capital.

What has been said?

Jeremy Sutter, who works for Score Agencies and looks after Lacazette's career, told LaRoma24 of the gossip surrounding the 30-year-old frontman: "No, there are no ongoing negotiations in progress with Roma for Lacazette. I have not had any contact with (Roma director of sport) Tiago Pinto."

Could Lacazette be on the move?

A man Arsenal snapped up from Lyon in 2017 has entered the final 12 months of his current deal at Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners have plenty of recent history when it comes to players running down their deals, and the Premier League heavyweights will be reluctant to lose another experienced star as a free agent, meaning that a big decision on his future needs to be made now.

Are Arsenal after another striker?

The rumours linking Lacazette with Roma are intertwined with those regarding the future of Chelsea star Tammy Abraham.

The England international is another of those to be interesting Mourinho, with Goal able to confirm that €40 million (£34m/$47m) bid for the 23-year-old has been accepted.

Abraham is however eager to remain in England when leaving Stamford Bridge and has seen a move across London mooted.

Further reading

Thomas Tuchel has joked about Chelsea's efforts to sign a striker this summer having been asked about Borussia Dortmund's Erling Haaland, after seeing the club bring in Romelu Lukaku.

Lukaku's £98 million ($136m) move from Inter to Stamford Bridge was announced on Thursday after several weeks of talks to bring him back to Chelsea.

However, for much of the summer, Chelsea were linked with signing Haaland who looks set to stay at the Bundesliga club. Having been asked about Haaland, Tuchel began jokingly criticising his club's efforts in the transfer market.

What did he say?

"Yes, we tried to sign both and wanted Lewandowski as a No 10 in behind," Tuchel joked ahead of a match against Crystal Palace in the Premier League. "Unfortunately, the board didn't listen and we only have Romelu."

"Yes, we missed a lot of opportunities," he sarcastically continued when Lionel Messi was brought up. "That's why you find me very upset and not wanting to continue.

"No! We had a certain profile and we are very happy with the mentality and attitude of the group. We wanted it to stay like this. It is not a given to have this in a group. it is precious and can be decisive in football.

"In my opinion, it is decisive and we are very careful and want to protect it. It was not about bringing the most possible amount of players into this group. We had to be sure that the player was good enough, in the right state of mind and can give with his personality to improve us.

"We wanted to be as sure as we can with this transfer. There are always doubts about transfers but we are very sure with Romelu because he knows the club and what Chelsea is about. It is like this.

"We think that Romelu, coming through here and always having Chelsea in his heart, is the perfect addition to our group because he embodies all that. We are proud of that in this club.

"We had, of course, some exchanges on the phone but right now he is following the protocol and quarantining some more days and we will work on the details."

Who is out of the Palace match?

Hakim Ziyech will be out for two weeks having avoided surgery amid fears that he had dislocated his elbow in the Super Cup win over Villarreal, and N'Golo Kante is a doubt for the upcoming match with an unspecified injury, with Lukaku in quarantine after signing for the Blues.

"Hakim will miss the game for sure because of his injury," Tuchel added. "The decision is made, it will be treated conservatively. At the moment the situation is like this that we don’t need the surgery, which is very, very good news for this kind of problem.

"We hope it continues like this and he can be back on the pitch in the next two weeks. We cannot promise but this is what we hope. We have some issues with N’Golo Kante, we need to sort it out, from the game. It is from the final."

Further reading

Paris Saint-Germain boss Mauricio Pochettino is staying relaxed about talk of a possible summer exit for Kylian Mbappe, who he insists remains "one of our players".

Mbappe has entered the final 12 months of his contract at Parc des Princes, having initially been signed from fellow Ligue 1 outfit Monaco in 2017.

The 22-year-old has been a talismanic figure for PSG over the past four years, but they have yet to reach an agreement with the forward over a renewal and Real Madrid are being tipped to test the club's resolve by launching a big-money bid for his signature before the transfer window closes.

What's been said?

It has been reported Real are ready to offer around €120 million (£102m/$141m) for Mbappe, but PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi insisted there is "no excuse" for him not to stay put following Lionel Messi's arrival in Paris on a free transfer earlier this week.

Pochettino has reiterated the Parc des Princes chief's comments ahead of his team's Ligue 1 clash with Strasbourg on Saturday, telling his pre-match press conference: "It's not for me to comment on just any statement. The president and Leonardo do not have to reassure me because as the president said, Kylian is one of our players."

Pressed on whether Messi's presence will help Mbappe make a final decision on his future, the Argentine tactician added: "I am the coach of PSG and I want to have the best players, like the other coaches. We have a very well balanced workforce.

"The arrival of Messi has produced something that everyone can feel. We know Messi is the best player in the world or one of the best. We have several players and Mbappé is also one of the best players in the world.

"We have to make sure that all these talents are put to the service of the collective, that it be fluid so that we can create something important in the team."

Mbappe's achievements at PSG

Mbappe has scored 132 goals in 172 games across all competitions for PSG to date, while also recording 62 assists. The World Cup winner's contribution in the final third has helped the club win ten trophies, including three Ligue 1 titles, and he also played a key role in their run to the Champions League final in 2019-20.

Pochettino on Messi's fitness

Pochettino was also asked when Messi is likely to make his debut for PSG, but could give no specific date due to the fact his compatriot is still playing catchup with the rest of the squad - having only just returned from holiday after inspiring Argentina's triumph at the Copa America.

"Today was Leo's second training session, a month after the Copa final," he said. "The idea is to see how he feels so he can make his debut. Everyone has seen it, the last few days Leo has had an amazing reception. He is a special boy and we are a staff that listens to the players and we are going to talk to him to find out what he needs and when he will be ready."

Further reading

Football Kenya Federation has moved to deduct sponsorship grants for AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia in order to partially settle the combined Ksh10 million fines imposed on the Premier League giants.

FKF's President, Nick Mwendwa, announced the two local giants would be fined for failing to turn up for a league game in late July at Thika Stadium.

K'Ogalo and Ingwe did not honour the Mashemeji Derby as they protested the federation's delay in settling their Shield Cup prize money.

"The federation has, further, made a decision to deduct half of the grants owed to AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia, moving forward, to go towards the settlement of the Ksh10 million incurred by the two clubs for failing to honour FKF PL match number 260 pitting the two sides," said FKF's statement obtained by Goal on Friday.

"Moving forward, following the withdrawal of the top league’s title partner, FKF has agreed with the clubs to review downwards the monthly grants, up until when the Federation will secure partners other than its broadcast and radio partner."

In a letter to both clubs, FKF revealed the amount that will be deducted from the first batch of sponsorship grants.

"Please be advised that further to Gor Mahia’s failure to respond to the FKF on how the club’s fine of Ksh4 million for failing to honour FKFPL match no 260 will be settled, the federation has made a final decision to deduct half of Gor Mahia’s monthly grants moving forward to go towards the settlement of the said fine," the letter to Gor Mahia and obtained by Goal read.

"In this regard, and in order to enable Gor Mahia to meet its obligations both at the federation and club level, Ksh1,324,500 will be transferred to your bank account immediately upon receipt of the requested documents, while Ksh1,324,500 will be retained by the federation to go towards the partial settlement of Gor Mahia’s four million fine."

The letter to AFC Leopards stated: "In this regard, and in order to enable AFC Leopards to meet its obligations both at the federation and club level, Ksh1,124,500 will be transferred to your bank account immediately upon receipt of the requested documents.

"While Ksh1,524,500 will be retained by the federation to go towards the partial settlement of AFC Leopard’s Ksh6 million fine and the subsequent settlement of KSh200,000 being AFC Leopards cash advance," a letter to Ingwe read.

After failing to feature in the Mashemeji Derby, K'Ogalo and Ingwe have played in the subsequent games.

Pep Guardiola refused to be drawn on renewed interest in Harry Kane with the Tottenham striker set to face Manchester City in Sunday's Premier League opener.

The City boss confirmed the club's interest in Kane at his news conference ahead of the Community Shield final and Goal reported in June that City were set to make a £100 million ($139m) offer in June.

City travel to Tottenham on Sunday in the Premier League opener adding another level of intrigue to the transfer saga which has rumbled on for much of the season.

What has been said?

Kane returned to first-team training at Hotspur Way on Friday with new boss Nuno yet to make a decision on whether he will be available for the game.

Amid reports of a £127million ($175m) bid for Kane, Guardiola said: "I answered this question the previous press conference. He's a player from Tottenham, I'm not going to talk about him. I made an exception last time, usually I don't talk about transfers."

Asked if City can be as successful as last season playing without a striker, he added: "We played with recognised strikers with [Sergio] Aguero and Gabriel [Jesus]. Unfortunately Aguero was injured, always when he was fit he was an important part of the team.

"He was a proper striker and Gabriel is a proper striker. Sometimes we play with a different approach, but the intention is the same to control the game and score as much as possible, with or without a striker."

The bigger picture

Goal understands Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is still not considering selling the England international, although a huge bid could yet change his mind.

Kane wants the move to go through and has made no secret about his desire to want to win trophies, and views City as the place to make those ambitions a reality.

Now 28, this could be his last opportunity for Tottenham to attract a large fee for their star striker, but they are under no pressure to sell with Kane still having three years remaining on a six-year deal signed in 2018.

City have already broken the British transfer record by completing the signing of Jack Grealish for £100m ($139m) from Aston Villa.

Further reading

Jadon Sancho has revealed what he will bring to Manchester United after "waiting a long time" for his switch to Old Trafford from Borussia Dortmund.

Sancho completed his long-awaited £73 million ($101m) move to United at the end of July, bringing to an end his four-year stint at Dortmund by committing to a five-season deal with the Manchester outfit.

The Red Devils had to be patient in their pursuit of the winger, who Ole Gunnar Solskjaer initially identified as a primary target in the summer of 2020, and he is eager to make his mark ahead of their Premier League season opener against Leeds United on Saturday.

What's been said?

Solskjaer has hinted that Sancho might not be ready to start at Old Trafford as he continues to get up to speed following his summer holidays, but the 21-year-old insists he is raring to go.

"I’ve been waiting for a long time for this move and I’m just glad it’s over now and I can get ready to start the season against Leeds and I’m buzzing," Sancho told United legend Rio Ferdinand in a pre-match interview for BT Sport.

Asked what unique qualities he can offer Solskjaer's side, the ex-Dortmund star added: "Goals, assists and a bit of flair and I’m definitely eager to win. That’s one of those things I’ve always done, always eager to help the team to win, I love winning it’s my mentality and hopefully I can win some games for Man United if it’s a close game or something like that. I’m looking forward to it."

Sancho on Fernandes and Co

Sancho, who recorded 50 goals and 64 assists in 137 outings for BVB, went on to express his excitement after linking up with Portuguese playmaker Bruno Fernandes, while also outlining his desire to complete United's deadly strike force alongside Mason Greenwood, Edinson Cavani and Marcus Rashford. 

"I can see [the winning mindset] in a few of the players like Bruno, today we were on the same team and we linked up very well," he said.

"Me and him love winning so I’m glad we have the mindset because it’s needed, especially in a big team like this. If you want to win things you have to learn how to win in training and matches, it’s important. 

"I watched some of the games last season and the attack is very good so to be a part of that now is going to be kind of crazy. I’ve seen what Bruno and Marcus have been doing and Greenwood and Cavani so to add more goals and assist to this is exciting."

Sancho reacts to Messi's PSG move

Sancho also weighed in on Lionel Messi's stunning free transfer to Paris Saint-Germain, insisting that he is striving to reach the same level as the former Barcelona captain and his new Parc des Princes' teammates Kylian Mbappe and Neymar.

"I think I use that as motivation," he said of the six-time Ballon d'Or winner's arrival in France.

"PSG are a great side, they’ve got great players like Neymar, Mbappe and Messi so as a young player I’m looking at that like I have to step up my game and try and show the world that I’m not at that level yet but I can get to that level.

"Especially as it’s good competition every young player should thrive for big games like that so if we did ever face them in the CL I would be buzzing to go. They’ve got a great side definitely."

Further reading

Manchester City are the team to beat this season should anyone hope to wrestle away their Premier League crown.

After strolling to the title last term, the reigning champions have once again strengthened their squad and are outright favourites to take the title at -160, well clear of Liverpool and Chelsea in joint-second.

Pep Guardiola will be looking to claim his fourth title in six seasons in England’s top-flight, and history is on his side - only twice in seven attempts has a Guardiola side failed to retain its league title.

His side will once again enter a new season looking stronger than they did last time out, with the British transfer record £100 million acquisition of Jack Grealish having bolstered an attack that already outscored everyone in the country last term.

City’s league-leading 60% average possession per 90 mins last season was well clear of second-placed Liverpool (54%), but their complete dominance of the ball regularly sees teams defending deep in heavy numbers and challenges Pep’s side to find a way through.

“[He] controls the tempo,” said Guardiola. “I love when he has the ball he stops before the dribble and the opponent stops as well. He controls the tempo when he accelerates and decelerates.

“We believe that he will be perfect for us and for the age, quality plus he is English. I'm sure he will be an incredible player for the national team and we’re delighted to have him with us.”

The England man’s creativity will also alleviate some of the burden on Kevin De Bruyne, City’s creative fulcrum who led the league in key passes last season and was second only to Harry Kane in assists.

Grealish however was almost level with De Bruyne in both of those metrics and even created one more chance than the latter’s 81 over the course of the campaign.

"Kevin De Bruyne is my favourite player,” revealed Grealish. “He's probably the most perfect footballer in the Premier League.

"Although I had a good season last year, my big chances created weren't as high as other people in my position. I think now my expected assists and big chances created are up there as well. So that's what I wanted to improve on, and that was obviously because of looking at De Bruyne, looking at his game and what he does."

City will certainly have no problem creating chances, no matter how many opposition defenders lay in wait - but with Sergio Aguero having now departed the club, who will score the goals?

Despite City hitting 10 more goals than the next highest scorers, Manchester United, last season, only midfielder Ilkay Gundogan appeared in the top 10 of the Premier League goalscoring charts with 13.

City will look to address that by bringing in the man who topped that list, Harry Kane. Should the England international join Grealish at City, Pep’s side will look unstoppable, particularly when they are so accomplished at stopping the opposition.

The champions not only outscored everyone last term, but they conceded the fewest number of goals, too, their mean defence giving up just 32 goals all season. City are, without doubt, the team to beat.

Manchester City are favourites to win the Premier League with SBD

Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman is excited by the potential in Jamal Musiala's game and has joked that the 18-year-old midfielder is destined for the top because he boasts similar attributes to himself.

A France international with a Champions League-winning goal to his name burst onto the scene as a teenage talent at Paris Saint-Germain and now boasts title triumphs in France, Italy and Germany.

Musiala is looking to tread a similar path, having made a senior breakthrough for Bayern and Germany in 2020-21, and he is being tipped to become a modern-day superstar by an experienced colleague at the Allianz Arena.

What has been said?

Asked for his take on Musiala by bundesliga.com, Coman has said: "I think he's getting really good and he played really well last season. 

"It was the first season when he started playing a lot more and he did really good. 

"We're all looking forward to his development because he has a lot of talent and he is motivated. 

"I'm sure the more the season goes on, the more he will become a top, top player."

Why is Musiala held in such high regard?

A youngster that spent eight years with Chelsea between 2011 and 2019 and represented England at youth international level has been causing quite a stir in Germany.

He has pledged allegiance to the country of his birth as a senior star, making Joachim Low's squad for Euro 2020, and has taken in 37 competitive appearances for Bayern.

Seven goals have been recorded across those outings, including history-making efforts in the Bundesliga and Champions League.

He is expected to hit even greater heights in 2021-22, with Coman seeing shades of himself in a hot prospect.

The Frenchman added on a highly-rated team-mate: "He's still shy sometimes, but he is still young and quiet. 

"He's really motivated and he is young, so he still has time to improve and to become more of a man. But this is normal and it will come with time. 

"He reminds me a little of myself when I was his age, which is why I really like him!"

Further reading

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) Technical Committee has decided to appraise India U-17 national women's team coach. Thomas Dennerby, as the women's senior national team head coach.

The Swede is a UEFA Pro Diploma holder and has guided the Swedish women's national team to a third-place finish in the 2011 World Cup in the past. Also under his tutelage, the Sweden eves side reached the quarter-finals at the 2012 London Olympic Games.

The 62-year-old has also worked as the head coach of the Nigerian women's national team and led the Super Falcons to the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup. He also helped the Nigerian women's side win the AWCON Award 2018, and was awarded the 2018 Coach of the Year in Nigeria.

What was said?

"I am grateful to the All India Football Federation for finding me suitable for the job. It’s an honour to be taking over as the head coach of the Indian senior women’s national team," Dennerby commented on his new role. 

"I have been in India and am aware of the huge potential. It is a big challenge to get the girls ready for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. Life is all about challenges, and I relish it."

AIFF general secretary Kushal Das stated, "With his vast experience, Thomas will bring in immense value addition to the women’s team. He is acquainted with India and we look forward together for him to improve our team technically, and competitively."

What will be Thomas Dennerby's tenure as India women's national team head coach?

With the U-17 Women's World Cup that was initially supposed to be held in India in November 2020, subsequently postponed by FIFA to February and March in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tournament is now set to be staged in the country from October 11 to October 30, 2022.

Meanwhile, the 2022 AFC Women's Asian Cup, also to be held in India, will start on January 20, 2022, and will finish on February 6, 2022.

Dennerby will return to take charge of the India U-17 women's national team following the conclusion of India's Asian Cup campaign. Till then his assistant at the U-17 side, Alex Ambrose, will take over the proceedings.

Which players are named by Dennerby in the 30-member probable national squad?

Upon taking charge of the senior women's team, Dennerby has named 30 probables who are set to join the women's national team camp at Jharkhand from August 16, 2021.

AIFF Women's Footballer of the Year 2020-21, Bala Devi, will not be among the 30 players as her medical condition is yet to be assessed. Other than the Rangers Women's FC forward, Dalima Chibber has an arrangement to leave the camp after 10 days in order to partake in the League football with Manitoba Bisons in Canada.

Dennerby has made it clear that no senior women's team player will be released to clubs that will be part of the forthcoming Indian Women's League (IWL) - tentatively between March and April 2022 in Bhubaneshwar - before the Women's Asian Cup, while the Senior national championships are expected to be held in November this year.

The 30-member probable squad:

Goalkeepers: Aditi Chauhan, Sowmiya Narayanasamy, M Linthoingambi Devi, Shreya Hooda

Defenders: Jabamani Tudu, Ashalata Devi, Sweety Devi, Hemam Shilky Devi, Michel Castanha, Ritu Rani, Ranjana Chanu Sorokhaibam, W Linthoingambi Devi, Kritina Devi Thounaojam, Anju Tamang, Asem Roja Devi

Midfielders: Indumathi Kathiresan, Sangita Basfore, Martina Thokchom, Dangmei Grace, Soumya Guguloth, Sumithra Kamaraj, Mariyammal Balamurugan, Sanju, Manisha.

Forwards: Renu, Karishma Shirvoikar, Sandhiya Ranganathan, Sumati Kumari, Daya Devi, Pyari Xaxa.

Chelsea and Manchester City have dominated the nominations for the Champions League player awards after reaching the final of the 2020-21 competition.

Porto's Estadio do Dragao staged the Champions League showpiece between Chelsea and City on May 29, which was only the third final in history to be contested by two English clubs.

The Blues ended up winning 1-0 courtesy of a first-half strike from Kai Havertz, but both teams have been strongly represented in the nominations for the best individual players in each position on the pitch.

Who has been nominated?

Chelsea No.1 Edouard Mendy is up for the best goalkeeper award alongside Manchester City shot-stopper Ederson, with Real Madrid's Thibaut Courtois completing the final shortlist.

In defence, Cesar Azpilicueta and Antonio Rudiger have made the cut for the Blues, while Ruben Dias has been acknowledged for a stellar first season in Europe with Pep Guardiola's Premier League champions.

Chelsea once again lead the nominations in midfield, with Jorginho and N'Golo Kante getting the nod, and City are represented by Kevin de Bruyne, who won the accolade in 2019-20.

The two finalists do not have anyone up for the best forward prize though, as Borussia Dortmund's Erling Haaland, Paris Saint-Germain striker Kylian Mbappe and Bayern Munich talisman Robert Lewandowksi have all been recognised for their impressive exploits in front of goal.

Europa nominees

The final nominees for the 2020-21 UEFA Europa League Player of the Season award have also been announced, with the competition having been won by Villarreal.

The Spanish outfit beat Manchester United on penalties to win the final, and talismanic frontman Gerard Moreno is up for the best player accolade, with one of his seven goals in the tournament coming in normal time at Stadion Gdansk in Poland.

Cavani also scored in the showpiece event, which ended 1-1 after 120 minutes, and he will be competing against Moreno and Red Devils team-mate Bruno Fernandes for the individual accolade.

Who is up for the Women's awards?

Another 12 players have been nominated in the women's competition, which was won by Barcelona last term as they recorded a thumping 4-0 final victory over Chelsea.

Seven members of the Barca squad are in contention for the positional awards, starting with goalkeeper Sandra Panos, who is up against Chelsea's Ann-Katrin Berger and former PSG net minder Christiane Endler - who joined Lyon earlier this summer.

Blaugrana duo María Pilar Leon and Irene Paredes are in contention for the best defender prize alongside Chelsea's Magdalena Eriksson, while in midfield the Spanish outfit have seen Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas nominated and the Blues are represented by Ji So-yun.

Barcelona occupy all three spots in the final shortlist for the best striker, with Caroline Graham Hansen, Jennifer Hermoso and Lieke Martens competing for the honour after a final vote from coaches and journalists.

When will the prizes be given out?

The 2020-21 award winners in both the men's and women's games will be announced after the group stage draw for this season's Champions League, which is due to take place on August 26 in Istanbul.

Further reading

Chelsea‘s Edouard Mendy has been shortlisted for the best Uefa Champions League goalkeeper award.

According to a statement from Uefa, the Senegal international will fight it out for the award with Thibaut Courtois of Belgium and Real Madrid, and Ederson of Brazil, and Manchester City.

“Uefa has today [Friday] announced the names of the players shortlisted for the 2020-21 Uefa Champions League positional awards,” read part of the statement.

“The awards will honour the best Goalkeeper, Defender, Midfielder and Forward from the 2020-21 Uefa Champions League season, and will be announced during the 2021-22 Uefa Champions League group stage draw, which takes place on Thursday 26 August in Istanbul, Turkey.

“The jury comprises the coaches from the 32 clubs which participated in the group stage of the 2020-21 Uefa Champions League, together with 55 journalists from each of Uefa’s 55 member associations, selected by the European Sports Media (ESM) group.

“The coaches were not allowed to vote for players from their own teams.”

The statement continued: “Coaches and journalists were requested to select a shortlist of three players in each category by allocating respectively five points, three points, and one point to each of them. The final result was based on the total number of votes cast by the coaches and the journalists.”

The defender's category will see two Chelsea players - Cesar Azpilicueta of Spain and Antonio Rudiger of Germany - battle it out with Ruben Dias of Portugal and Man City.

In the midfielder’s category, the battle will be between Kevin De Bruyne of Belgium and Man City, Jorginho of Italy and Chelsea, and N’Golo Kante of France and Chelsea.

Erling Haaland of Norway and Borussia Dortmund is among those shortlisted for the striker’s award and he will battle it out with Kylian Mbappe of France and Paris Saint-Germain and Robert Lewandowksi of Poland and Bayern Munich.

During the Uefa Super Cup final between Chelsea and Villarreal, the 29-year-old Mendy set a record for making the squad as he became the first African keeper to play in the final since Bruce Grobbelaar versus Juventus in 1985.

After Chelsea and Villarreal had tied 1-1, Mendy was pulled out for goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who came on to save two penalties and help the team win the trophy.