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“It’s the best one because it’s the one that’s right now” : LeBron James shares his thoughts after clinching historic gold in Paris

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“It’s the best one because it’s the one that’s right now” : LeBron James shares his thoughts after clinching historic gold in Paris An instantly iconic modern classic was played out in the fully packed Paris Bercy Arena on Saturday, as the USA won their fifth consecutive Olympic gold, beating the hosts France for the second time in a row. The veterans in the team were vividly emotional, seeing that this was their last ever Olympics, and what a way it was to say goodbye to the competition. Wardell Stephen Curry once again pulled a rabbit out of his hat and produced moments of magic that the world will never forget. Add that to the FIBA Olympics MVP’s performance of 14-6-10 and Kevin Durant doing his usual thing, the USA beat France 98-87 in a nail-biting finish. The LA Lakers superstar specifically addressed the media that this may well have been his last Olympics, as he could not see himself playing till 2028. The 39-year-old joined the USA Olympics team after a 12-year hiatus, and has now won three Olympic gold medals (Beijing 2008, London 2012 and Paris 2024) including a bronze in Athens 2004. “I can’t see myself playing in LA (in 2028). Although I also didn’t see myself playing in Paris. But four years from now, I can’t see it.” said the Olympics MVP (as quoted by Reuters). LeBron James says that he is living in the moment At the age of 39, LeBron James dropped an all-timer of a campaign and was far and away the best player in each game. He was the outright leader of the team and was often seen instructing and correcting each teammate, including having regular conversations with coach Steve Kerr. The veteran commented post match that he feels humbled to still be able to play at the highest level. “It’s a big moment for USA basketball, I’m just living in the moment. I feel super humbled that I can still play this game and play it at a high level, play with 11 other great players, and a great coaching staff go out and do it for our country.” said James. Also in the post-match interview, the media took to LeBron James about the ‘Dream Team’ in 1992, the ‘Redeem Team’ in 2008 and asked what nickname would fit this current team, to which the veteran jokingly replied to as ‘The Avengers’. LeBron James added that this win felt nearest to his heart, which suggested that this was his final Olympics, as he was seen content to be able to finish it off on such a high note. “It was great. I think you wouldn’t want it any other way to be able to face off against the host team. It was a great atmosphere, It’s the best one because it’s the one that’s right now.” the NBA all-time top scorer added. The ‘King’ has achieved everything in his 21-year long career, but if the past has taught us anything, he still will not show any signs of slowing down. LeBron James will be creating history yet again in the 24/25 season, as he is set to play with his own son Bronny James Jr. as teammates in the Los Angeles Lakers. Also Read: Horrible scenes as France and Argentina football quarterfinals ends in a heavy altercation as hosts go through

Stephen Curry
Featured

“It was just a regular Steph game” : Kevin Durant shows admiration towards former Warriors teammate’s semi-final performance

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In one of the great basketball comebacks in Olympics history, USA were barely able to beat Serbia, 95-91. The current ‘big 3’ of NBA and basketball in general – LeBron James, Steph Curry and Kevin Durant were the main protagonists in sealing this most important victory. The USA were down and out up until the third quarter of the game, with Steph Curry and Joel Embiid carrying all the load for the team. Credits to Serbia, as they were impressive defensively, and offensively were shooting threes for fun, thanks to Nikola Jokic and Bogdan Bogdanovic. Starting the final quarter, team USA were down 13 points to Serbia. But something had changed. While 12,213 people at the Paris Bercy Arena booed Joel Embiid, he quickly launched three consecutive buckets, as James’s layup and Curry’s three helped USA reclaim the lead in a historic 32-15 fourth quarter. Kevin Durant : “It was God talking through him tonight” Warriors legend Steph Curry came to the Olympics with no form and looked like a shadow of his previous self, but he proved in this semi-final performance as to why he is rated as the greatest shooter of all time. Countless former and current NBA players sang the veteran’s praises on social media, as Curry scored 36 points with 8 rebounds and 2 assists to his name, just one point short of Carmelo Anthony’s record, who was also present at the game passionately shouting instructions. But the ‘Slim Reaper’ of the USA, Kevin Durant had some special words for his friend post-match. “Steph, man, that was a God-like performance, dang, (Curry) was tough. He felt like he was struggling throughout the whole tournament, and we always said each night it could be somebody different (every game). And tonight, he showed up in a way that, man… shot after shot, getting a steal and then finishing with the layup. He was everywhere tonight. It was one of the greatest games I’ve ever seen him play,” said the 35-year-old (per The Athletic). “Guys were looking for him. His energy was high. He was shooting the ball, turning around, shooting the ball, turning around. It was just a regular Steph game, and I think he was searching for that type of game the whole Olympics and to have it right here, especially when we needed it, it was special to see. It was God talking through him tonight,” the Phoenix Suns player added. Kevin Durant was not the only teammate who praised Stephen Curry, as Lebron James, who himself scored a triple-double, admired the performance of ‘Chef Curry’ as the duo was seen wildly celebrating after the end of the game. Looking at the context and the high stakes this match held, it would not be far-fetched to say that this was Curry’s best performance in recent years. Without him, USA would be competing for the bronze medal against Germany. The star-studded team are now favorites to win the Olympics once again, as the USA will face hosts France in the highly awaited gold medal match this Saturday. Also Read: Horrible scenes as France and Argentina football quarterfinals ends in a heavy altercation as hosts go through

Lewis Hamilton
Formula 1

“He doesn’t come to Ferrari to enjoy his retirement” : Ferrari chairman confident that Lewis Hamilton will win eighth F1 title

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“He doesn’t come to Ferrari to enjoy his retirement” : Ferrari chairman confident that Lewis Hamilton will win eighth F1 title John Elkann is a prominent figure in the business world, and is known for making strategic and key investments. He serves as the chairman and CEO of Exor, which has made significant contributions in various industries including sports teams like Juventus FC and Ferrari. John Elkann specifically has remained in close ties with Ferrari, and is leading them to restore its previous storied excellence and heritage. This can be seen from the groundbreaking transfer for F1 legend Lewis Hamilton from Mercedes. Lewis Hamilton has joined Ferrari and is preparing for a ‘new challenge’ in his career, although many think this he is on his way to retirement. But the Ferrari chairman has different thoughts on this matter, and believes the Briton will bring back greatness for the Italian team, breaking an 18 year long wait for an F1 drivers’ title. Ferrari director believes age will not be a factor for Lewis Hamilton to break records In an interview with Italy’s Corriere dello Sport, the Italian revealed that he is very excited for the seven-time champion’s arrival, and that the 39-year-old (40 by the time he joins) will not slow down in pursuit to win his eighth title. “Certain things happen very quickly. This was the moment when he and Ferrari found each other. Lewis wants his eighth world title, Ferrari also wants to win and with Lewis we are stronger. He is not coming to us to enjoy his retirement and it is important that he has motivated people around him,” stated the 48-year-old. John Elkann believes that competition is getting much higher than before, and the experience of Lewis Hamilton will provide extra motivation for the team to reach its fullest potential. “It is really exciting in Formula 1 now, with four teams very close to each other. It is important to aim for maximum potential. Those with more experience tend to be more consistent and that could be a deciding factor,” the Ferrari director added. In the world of sports, it is not very unusual seeing athletes who were at the top of their respective sports in their prime continue their dominance even in their latter years. Examples like Lionel Messi who won the World Cup while being the best player of the tournament at 35, Cristiano Ronaldo still scoring goals for fun at 39, LeBron James who has arguably been the best player in the Olympics at 39, and most recently, Novak Djokovic who won the Olympic gold at 37 years of age. Similarly, the Ferrari director ensures that Hamilton’s stint at Ferrari will be no different.  “The two of them, Federer, Biles, Ronaldo, Messi and Paltrinieri himself, with dedication and sacrifices they are overcoming the physical limits due to age. It is also true that we are in a historical phase in which we live longer and the careers of sportsmen and women are also extended.” Elkann concluded. Lewis Hamilton has been at the pinnacle of his sport for over a decade now, and if someone can bring home an eighth F1 title at the age of 40, he is certainly the man to put your money on the line. Also Read: “The fact that I am not the bookmakers’ favorite is just a motivation for me” : Novak Djokovic ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics

Arsene Wenger
Football

“If you’re not doing your job, you’re out” : Arsenal icon addresses key difference between Arteta and Wenger

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Mikel Arteta has slowly but surely made an impact at Arsenal over his tenure. While the team’s performances were lack-luster in the earlier seasons, drastic changes were made which led Arsenal close to the coveted Premier League title in the previous two seasons, a trophy which they have not won since the past two decades. The 24/25 season is looking bright for the Gunners, as they are set to be favorites to win the league with the help of new signings like Riccardo Calafiori and David Raya, but stiff competition from Arteta’s ‘mentor’ awaits them yet again. Pep Guardiola will want to create new history with Manchester City, as they look to become the first side to win the Premier League on five consecutive occasions. The Spaniard’s mindset and approach has been liked by many, with most recently Arsenal legend Ray Parlour appreciating the ‘tenacity’ of the 42-year-old, and that things were different during his time at the club. Raymond Parlour’s thoughts over Mikel Arteta’s management Football pundit and former Arsenal player Ray Parlour shared his view over the Spaniard’s coaching ideology. He was part of the famous Arsenal ‘Invincibles’ squad, and notices key differences between Mikel Arteta and the legendary Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger. “Arteta is ruthless. He has learned that from Pep. If you’re not doing your job, you’re out. It could be argued that in my time, Arsene Wenger was too loyal and wanted continuity with the same players — but Arteta is fearless. Managers live by decisions and he hasn’t made many bad ones. I doubted him for dropping Aaron Ramsdale for David Raya but now no one talks about it. Fair play to him for having the balls to leave people out and sell them,” said the 51-year-old (via The Sun). He also mentioned that Wenger was not able to make tough decisions, unlike Mikel Arteta, who recently had to make a call on whether or not to axe Emile Smith Rowe from his boyhood club, which he ultimately did. Mikel Arteta is on his way of becoming one of the best managers in Europe, but the trophy cabinet says otherwise. Arsenal under Arsene Wenger were one of the most dangerous and successful clubs in history, having won multiple titles. The Spaniard has won only two FA Cups and a Community Shield over the past five years, and the hope to earn a major silverware title continues this season. The young manager will soon need to embrace all the praises and turn them into titles to be considered as one of the greats in his era. Also Read: “Sometimes you have to make unpopular decisions” : Arsenal sporting director Edu admits making tricky choices

Is Novak Djokovic playing Laver Cup?
Tennis

“Nobody that can tell me that Novak shouldn’t get some benefit to his ranking” : Andy Roddick criticizes ‘dumb’ Olympics rule

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“Nobody that can tell me that Novak shouldn’t get some benefit to his ranking” : Andy Roddick criticizes ‘dumb’ Olympics rule Novak Djokovic’s recent glory at the Olympics has been well received by fans around the world, seeing the Serbian finally add the missing piece of the puzzle to his historic career. But ever since the end of the tennis Olympics in Paris, controversy has been sparked around the world about the lack of points system and prize money. Many big personalities have commented on the fact that players participating in the Olympics do not receive any points, unlike other ATP and grand slam tours. This has made players feel that their efforts do not receive much rewards in the Olympics, with many notable players like Frances Tiafoe, Ben Shelton and Aryna Sabalenka opting out to focus on other tournaments which will benefit their career ranking more. Tennis icon and analyst Andy Roddick and Coco Gauff’s coach Brad Gilbert have been the latest to criticize on this matter, with the latter commenting on this ‘ridiculous’ rule on X (formerly known as Twitter): Andy Roddick’s spiteful words on absurd Olympics rule The former American tennis player remains an influential figure, with his thoughts and analysis taken seriously around the world of tennis. Roddick recently reflected his views of the tennis Olympics on his ‘Served’ podcast, and said that it was the best it could possibly be – games and performance wise. But he was very disappointed regarding the issue of having no points or prize money. “I think, there is nobody that can tell me that Novak shouldn’t get some benefit to his ranking, we used to have points, we took him away. There’s nothing to show for him (Novak). He should have points at least. No one’s getting paid. I’m not saying anyone should get paid you should not get paid to play in the Olympics at least not directly and but like you should have points,” said the 41-year-old (via Served). “It’s no disrespect that any playing that but it’s the strength of draws is weak and they’re still giving out 500 points to the winner. I can’t be told that Novak doesn’t deserve more points for what he did at the Olympics. You’re playing the same game the best play anytime you get all the best players that are taking it as seriously as possible in one place. And you’re beating them; you should get something like that’s it’s just dumb I don’t get it they should get points,” added the former US Open champion. Andy Roddick was visibly frustrated and confused over this rule, and was disappointed for his friend and rival Novak Djokovic among others, whom he has gained a lot of respect for post-retirement. The American has always praised the Serbian for his incredible achievements and his ability to sustain success over such a long period. Novak Djokovic had also previously commented on the tennis Olympics rule, stating that he would definitely encourage more voices to get on this in hope for change. “To be quite frank, I don’t see a reason why not. You know, we have the best players in the world participating in arguably the fifth Grand Slam. It’s of that important for all of us, even more, because it happens every four years. I would definitely encourage people to rethink of getting points out there,” said the 37-year-old. As many important people of tennis have spoken about this matter, it could be a matter of time we see the rule revised and the Olympics add points for increased participation and competition, ahead of the next Summer Olympics held in Los Angeles. Also Read: “The fact that I am not the bookmakers’ favorite is just a motivation for me” : Novak Djokovic ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics

Formula 1

“He clearly wants to have another chapter in his career” : Andrew Shovlin reveals reason behind Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes departure

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“He clearly wants to have another chapter in his career” : Andrew Shovlin reveals reason behind Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes departure Lewis Hamilton was set to extend his Mercedes contract by two more years, but the bombshell news of him leaving the Silver Arrows to join the Prancing Horses earlier this season left everyone in shock. Many were left wondering the reason behind his switch to Ferrari. Although after making this announcement, things have not looked that bad at Mercedes, as the team has overall performed on a better level than before. Lewis Hamilton has claimed two victories this season in Silverstone and Spa, his first coming at home after a lengthy dry spell of almost three years. The Briton has also been taking part with the engineering team, particularly the trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin, providing crucial feedbacks on the car’s performances and weaknesses. He remains a key central figure in the team, and looks forward to the remainder of the season. During this resurgence, questions were led to be asked whether or not the 39-year-old will regret leaving Mercedes. “I think his biggest reasons are not necessarily ones of car performance” : Mercedes engineering director Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin have had a significant professional relationship over the years, with many successes coming along the way. Having worked closely with the Briton, Shovlin addressed the reason as to why he is leaving Mercedes at this point in his career. “I think his biggest reasons are not necessarily ones of car performance. He clearly wants to have another chapter in his career beyond his very successful one with Mercedes. He’s of an age where if he was going to do that, he would need to do it sooner rather than later,” said the 50-year-old (via GP Fans). Andrew Shovlin also said that the Briton is looking for a different challenge in his already storied career. Add that to his childhood dream of dawning the Italian colors, it was a timely decision made by the 39-year-old, as his racing days are gradually coming to an end. “As I said, if we were dominating a championship, I suspect it would have been difficult for him to do that [exit], but I think a big part of Lewis is wanting to have another team and another challenge in his career. I think when someone’s decided that they want to do that, it can be quite difficult to persuade them otherwise,” the Mercedes director added. The successful pair will part ways after this season, as Mercedes remains optimistic about their performance and the potential for further successes, while the legend of Lewis Hamilton will continue at the Scuderia, teaming up with Charles Leclerc on the way. Also Read: “That’s not my problem either” : Max Verstappen responds to Lewis Hamilton’s ‘act like a world champion’ claim

Novak Djokovic
Tennis

“He is the man to beat at the US Open” : Former coach says Novak Djokovic will not stop after Olympic gold

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“He is the man to beat at the US Open” : Former coach says Novak Djokovic will not stop after Olympic gold Fairytale endings do exist, especially in sports. There is nothing sweeter than winning the only title which has escaped your hands throughout your career, that too in your last try (Lionel Messi will surely agree with that statement). Tennis and Serbian legend Novak Djokovic just played out one of his best games ever, at the ripe age of 37, winning the Olympic gold medal. Court Philippe-Chatrier was exuberant the whole day, as Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic played out for almost three hours in an instant classic. Both players went toe-to-toe with each other, winning close sets one after the other, as the winner was finally decided by two tie-breakers, with Djokovic pulling through and claiming the win, with the final score being 7-6(3) 7-6(2). Novak Djokovic is the most decorated tennis player of all time, winning 74 total titles, but in his first Olympics final with the goal medal win, he was vividly emotional. His hands were shaking as he went through the crowd to celebrate with his family while proudly raising Serbia’s flag across his shoulders. “We almost played three hours in just two sets, An incredible battle and fight. When the last shot went past him, it was the only moment I thought I could win the match. I mean I believed I could win, but to actually win it… To win Olympic gold at 37, I finally did it. Most of all, it’s my country,” said the emotional Serbian (via Eurosport). Goran Ivanisevic admits Djokovic will not slow down after Olympics win After six successful years together, where Novak Djokovic won 12 grand slam titles, the Eastern Europeans decided to part ways in March of this year. But there is no love lost between them, as Goran Ivanisevic had nothing but sheer admiration for his former player. Goran Ivanisevic admitted that the Serbian fell short in the Wimbledon finals against the same opponent, but if this match would have been played for five more hours, the outcome would have been the same. “Only a crazy person would say that he doesn’t have it in him anymore. I’m so glad he finally won this gold. People forgot that this was his first Olympics final, he felt that this is it, that he has to seize this opportunity. Although, considering how crazy he is, it wouldn’t surprise me to see him in Los Angeles in 2028 as well.” said the former coach (via Tennis Majors). Novak Djokovic was only the fifth ever player to complete the career golden slam, as Ivanisevic thinks that this Olympics win would give him extra motivation to perform in the US Open. “I wish him 25th Slam, to break the absolute record, and then he can retire, although he will never retire, this guy. I think he can find the motivation, the gold will lift him. If he plays like this, he is the man to beat at the US Open. At Wimbledon, it was a miracle that he even played, let alone reached the finals, but we never know if something similar to this year’s Australian Open can happen. Against Sinner there, he didn’t show up – we don’t have a crystal ball, but if he is motivated like here, he will be the favourite in New York.” the Croatian added. Novak Djokovic will have a much-needed break from tennis as he will not take part in the Canadian Open this week. The US Open starts in three weeks, and fans will be expecting the ‘GOAT’ of tennis to win his 25th Major. Also Read: “The fact that I am not the bookmakers’ favorite is just a motivation for me” : Novak Djokovic ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics

Noah Lyles
Featured

“I did this against the best of the best on the biggest stage with the biggest pressure” : Noah Lyles after clinching historic gold in Paris

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“I did this against the best of the best on the biggest stage with the biggest pressure” : Noah Lyles after clinching historic gold in Paris After the end of one of the most iconic 100 m races in recent Olympics history, reigning world champion Noah Lyles came out on top, and to say by the barest of margins would be an understatement. The current world champion in 100m, 200m, and the 4x100m relay just added an Olympic gold medal to his collection, unanimously earning him the title of the ‘fastest man alive’. The Stade de France arena was in shock after witnessing the race, as no one could figure out who won, because the time difference in between first and last place were in milliseconds. Even the commentators had no idea because of this, and each of them picked a different winner. But the whole stadium erupted after the American flag was displayed on screen. Kishane Thompson could not believe his luck, as the difference between the Jamaican and eternal glory was five-thousandths of a second (yes, you heard that right). For context, the human eye takes between 100 and 150 milliseconds to blink. Noah Lyles finished at 9.784 seconds, while Thompson clocked at 9.789 seconds, getting the silver. “I went up to Kishane and I was like, I’m gonna be honest, I think you had that one, I was fully prepared to see his name pop up, and to see my name pop, I’m like, goodness gracious, I’m incredible,” said the victorious gold medalist. Noah Lyles backs up his talk as he delivers on the biggest stage of all Two months ago, Lyles took to X (formerly known as Twitter) and challenged Jamaican runner Oblique Seville. In a viral photo in which Seville stared Lyles down before beating him, the world champion commented that he will have the final say in Paris. Fair enough, he backed it up and more, as the Jamaican finished at last. For the first time all eight men broke 10-seconds as this was the closest 100m race in Olympics history. It set the internet ablaze, with fans, athletes and even celebrities hyping up the newly crowned champion. Noah Lyles even broke his own previous personal best of 9.83 seconds during the US Olympic trials, but he would hardly care about that. The American runner had a huge smile and a feeling of contempt around him, as he proudly admitted how he kept his cool and handled his nerves in such a knee-shaking circumstance. “When I saw my name [on the scoreboard], I was like, I didn’t do this against a slow field,” Lyles said in a press conference after the race. “I did this against the best of the best on the biggest stage with the biggest pressure.” said the 27-year-old. Safe to say, this victory will be celebrated and talked about for years to come, as Paris has witnessed something very special. Also Read: Horrible scenes as France and Argentina football quarterfinals ends in a heavy altercation as hosts go through

Football

“Sometimes you have to make unpopular decisions” : Arsenal sporting director Edu admits to making tricky choices

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“Sometimes you have to make unpopular decisions” : Arsenal sporting director Edu admits making tricky choices Over the past five years, Arsenal have gone from a mid-table club fighting for the top four spots, to now competing for the Premier League title while finding ways to achieve success in Europe. The Gunners manager Mikel Arteta has been widely praised for training and developing this new young side, among other accomplishments. The Spainard’s efforts have received its flowers, although it might have overshadowed key contributions of others. Arsenal’s current sporting director and former player Edu Gaspar joined the club in July of 2019 as a technical director, and made formidable changes which enhanced the club’s overall performance. He then became the Gunners’ first ever sporting director in 2022, and since then has made important signings which made the club even more competitive and a serious threat for rival clubs. Apart from this, Gaspar has also toned down the average age of the squad, while getting rid of underperforming players on a big payroll, like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and most recently Nicolas Pepe. Edu Gaspar’s ideology of squad balance revolves around looking at the age, salary and performance of a player. Depending upon that, he determines whether or not to put the player up for sale. In a recent interview, the Brazilian spoke about the difficult choices a sporting director needs to make for the prosperity of the club. “When you live in the football world, sometimes you have to make decisions simple and sometimes you have to make decisions even if it is not popular. When I joined, I looked at the squad balance, the positions, and the age of the group. There are three elements that you have to be really aware of. First of all, we have to see the age of the player. Then you have to see the salary of the player. And third, you have to see the performance of the player. If you have a player over 26 or 27 years, you need attention. If his salary is high, you need attention. And if he is not performing, you are dead,” Edu said.  “When I came to Arsenal, I saw all the squad, with respect, almost everyone was over 26, 27, on big salaries and not performing. If you have those three elements, which club in the world wants to come here and buy one of our players? No-one. Then unpopular decisions started to come. Because most of the players that have those elements, they have a fanbase and a media that love them. But for the club, it is not healthy sometimes to keep the player in that situation,” said the 46-year-old (via GOAL). What are Edu Gaspar’s future plans? The sporting director’s vision and strategy continue to shape up the club’s ambitions, with the main aim of dethroning the seemingly unbeatable side of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City in the English league. They also target to make a  deep run in the Champions League. Edu Gaspar has already provided Arteta big name signings such as Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus. As for the new season, he has had a busy summer, with already signing Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna for £42 million and goalkeeper David Raya from Brentford for £27 million​. Real Sociedad player Mikel Merino is the latest to be linked to the North London club, as Gaspar is closing in on the deal for around £30 million with personal terms already agreed. Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez’s name has also been brought up, although unlikely but the Brazilian has been closely monitoring on the situation. With the transfer window still open and important players up for grabs, Arsenal fans can surely rejoice and expect a few more signings coming towards them. Also Read: “114 points”! If we do that, we win the league for sure: ” Mikel Arteta on what Arsenal can do to topple Manchester City

Football

“Jadon can play as a false striker” : Erik ten Hag has new plans amidst injury crisis

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“Jadon can play as a false striker” : Erik ten Hag has new plans amidst injury crisis Never a dull day in your life if you are a Manchester United fan. Ever since the introduction of the Dutch manager in 2022, the Red Devils have been experiencing a phase of transformation and rebuilding, although some may say it has been going on a loop. This issue is mainly due to the huge amount of injuries they have faced over the past two seasons, and they are not over yet. Apart from continuous injuries in the defence like Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw, and the latest signing of wonderkid Leny Yoro, there is a major striker shortage with lack of attacking options, as Rasmus Hojlund was the latest to get injured during pre-season. This has led the Red Devils’ manager to adapt to other options and change his tactics. The names of Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford have come up on the list, with the former making a return at the club after an impressive loan spell at the black and yellow brand in Germany. After a public dispute with Erik ten Hag last season, the 24-year-old was exiled and did not participate in any games, which ultimately was the reason for his departure. But the loan turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as Jadon Sancho surprised everybody at Borussia Dortmund and regained his form back, while almost clinching a Champions League title as well. What Erik ten Hag has in store for Jadon Sancho Following their reconciliation and positive talks, the Englishman has been reintegrated into the first team dynamics as ten Hag is willing to give him another chance to shine at Old Trafford, in hope to finally unlock his true potential. The 54-year-old hinted that Jadon Sancho’s new role could be in the middle as a ‘false nine’ or even at striker, with captain Bruno Fernandes hovering around him. Although the Englishman can play at wider areas as well, Erik ten Hag believes Marcus Rashford would be a more effective option for that, driving in from the left and cutting inside. “There is also, of course, Jadon, who can play as a striker. We know he can play in wide areas, but also as a false striker, he’s an option. Marcus has done it before [played up front] and he can do it, and it’s definitely an option. But I think he is most productive from the left, starting wide and coming inside. So when he can arrive there, he is most effective. But we have other options. We have Bruno who can play as a striker as well.” said Erik ten Hag (via GOAL). Ten Hag also addressed the option of newly signed fellow Dutch player Joshua Zirkzee, who is on a high after a fantastic season in Italy, although admitted he needs time to adapt to Premier League football. “Joshua Zirkzee, he’s coming in, he’s started training. But you also have to consider that he’s not so long in training, so that will take time, and he has to adapt to English football and our way of playing as well.” said the Dutchman (via GOAL). Erik ten Hag will face Pep Guardiola in a much-awaited Manchester Derby for the Community Shield this Saturday, and it will be interesting to see where (or if) Jadon Sancho plays in it. Also Read: “114 points”! If we do that, we win the league for sure: ” Mikel Arteta on what Arsenal can do to topple Manchester City

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