In a stunning turn of events, they secured the reigning Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema’s services and even brought Brazilian superstar Neymar to Saudi Arabia following his departure from PSG. Offering wage packets up to ten times higher than those in Europe, they’ve also lured some of the Premier League’s top talents, with Chelsea’s N’Golo Kante and Wolves’ Ruben Neves among the names making the move.

As the Saudi Arabian summer transfer window controversially nears its September 7th deadline, some Premier League superstars are still linked with blockbuster moves to the Middle East.

1. Mohamed Salah – Liverpool

While Saudi Arabia has secured big-name signings like Benzema and Kante this summer, the potential arrival of Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah would be nothing short of a remarkable coup. Despite Liverpool’s insistence that Salah is not for sale, rumors persist that the 31-year-old could complete a historic move before the September 7th deadline.

ESPN reported last weekend that Jurgen Klopp’s side rejected an initial £150 million offer from Al-Ittihad. Still, a Saudi Arabian delegation has traveled to England for further discussions on a record-breaking £200 million bid. Reports also suggest that Salah himself may be open to the move. Liverpool faces a difficult decision regarding their attacking icon’s future, leaving fans anxious about his potential departure from Anfield.

2. Pablo Fornals – West Ham

Despite playing a pivotal role in West Ham’s Europa Conference League triumph over the summer, Spanish international Pablo Fornals has faced persistent speculation about his departure from the London Stadium. While West Ham can extend Fornals’ contract for another year, the 27-year-old has entered the final year of his current deal.

Fornals, a favorite of West Ham manager David Moyes, has seen limited Premier League action this season, leading to frustration. Football Insider reported that several Saudi Pro League clubs are interested in the versatile midfielder. While he remains a fan favorite in East London, a bid in the region of £28 million could tempt West Ham to part ways with him.

3. Jamaal Lascelles – Newcastle

As Newcastle’s club captain, Jamaal Lascelles finds himself on the fringes of the first team under manager Eddie Howe. Despite Sven Botman’s ankle injury, Lascelles has struggled to secure a spot in the starting XI, making just one brief cameo appearance in the Premier League.

With only eight Premier League appearances last season and entering the final year of his contract at St. James’ Park, Lascelles’ future at the club is uncertain. There’s speculation that Pro League side Al-Shabab is interested in him, and Newcastle may be open to selling their skipper. Lascelles’ career could take an unexpected turn before the Saudi deadline, with the once-promising defender potentially moving to Saudi Arabia.

As the Saudi Pro League continues its aggressive recruitment drive, these Premier League stars could be among the next high-profile signings, adding even more excitement to an already dynamic transfer window.

The post Premier League Stars Who Could Still Make a Move to Saudi Arabia in the Coming Days appeared first on Sports News.

South African forward Lyle Foster played a pivotal role for the Clarets, breaking the deadlock late in the first half at Kenilworth Road. However, Luton’s Elijah Adebayo managed to level the score with just six minutes remaining, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. Norway midfielder Bruun Larsen ultimately proved to be the hero, scoring his first-ever Premier League goal in the dying moments to snatch the victory for Burnley.

Championship winners Burnley had endured a challenging start to their Premier League campaign, with just one point from their first six games, resulting in five losses. However, this long-awaited triumph breathed new life into their season, propelling them to 18th place in the standings, narrowly trailing Luton on goal difference.

After the match, a jubilant Vincent Kompany expressed his delight at securing the crucial victory, stating, “It feels great, three points in the Premier League. We had to battle for it, and I am proud of the team for what they showed.”

He emphasized the importance of the team’s work ethic, saying, “We showed what got us through in the Championship last season. Too much is said about what we do on the ball. If you want to judge us, watch us in the battles. This is a team that enjoys this type of work.”

The defeat served as a reality check for Luton after their recent victory against Everton. The Hatters, who last graced the top flight in the 1991-92 season, had been on a two-game unbeaten run but could not continue their positive momentum.

Luton’s manager, Rob Edwards, expressed disappointment at the result but commended his team’s effort, saying, “We’re disappointed. They’re difficult to play against, but we showed our true selves tonight. We kept fighting to get back in the game. This is where we want to be. We want to compete and win games. I do think we deserved to tonight.”

Initially scheduled for August but postponed due to ongoing stadium improvements at Kenilworth Road, the match saw Burnley dominate early on. Zeki Amdouni’s header forced a stunning save from Luton goalkeeper Thomas Kaminski, while Josh Brownhill narrowly missed the target with a long-range effort.

Burnley’s breakthrough came in first-half stoppage time when Sander Berge’s precise pass found Lyle Foster, who clinically dispatched the ball into the bottom corner, giving his team a well-deserved lead.

Although Burnley nearly doubled their advantage soon after the break, with Brownhill testing Kaminski, Luton began to rally. A crucial goal-line clearance from Josh Cullen denied Jacob Brown’s header.

In the 84th minute, Luton found the equalizer when Reece Burke headed the ball down to Elijah Adebayo, who made no mistake from close range. However, the jubilation among Luton’s faithful was short-lived as Bruun Larsen, cutting in from the right flank, delivered a stunning curling strike into the top corner moments later.

The victory was a testament to Burnley’s resilience and determination, providing renewed hope for their Premier League campaign. Meanwhile, Luton will look to bounce back from this setback as they aim to become a competitive force in the top flight once more.

The post Burnley Triumph Over Luton to Secure First Premier League Win This Season appeared first on Sports News.

¡GO-LA-ZO!

Con el sello de la casa, Messi de tiro libre la puso en el ángulo y llega a 104 goles con la albiceleste en 176 partidos.

Argentina 1-0 Ecuador

EN VIVO por @Telemundo #RumboAlMundial #Somos26 #EliminatoriasSudamericanas pic.twitter.com/nuiFtoK1fJ

— Telemundo Deportes (@TelemundoSports) September 8, 2023

67th min: Ecuador attempts to capitalize on a rare opportunity in the Argentina third, but the shot at the top of the penalty area is mishandled, allowing Dibu Martinez to make a comfortable collection. The visitors then make their initial substitutions of the match, introducing Kevin Rodriguez and Julio Ortiz in place of Gonzalo Plata and Jose Cifuentes.

62nd min: Jose Cifuentes receives the first yellow card of the match for a foul on Alexis Mac Allister. Argentina is preparing to make their first substitution as Angel Di Maria gets ready on the touchline. He will replace Nico Gonzalez, who has had a quiet performance.

60th min: Enner Valencia falls in the 18-yard box, but the referee dismisses the penalty appeals. Cristian Romero, who executed the tackle, is furious with Valencia, and rightly so, as the replay demonstrates it was a clean ball tackle, and Valencia was attempting to deceive the referee.

59th min: Opportunity for Argentina! The hosts are increasing the pressure, coming close twice! First, Nicolas Tagliafico narrowly misses with a powerful shot just inches over the crossbar. Moments later, there is a scramble in the penalty area, but Enzo Fernandez fails to make contact with the ball!

54th min: Opportunity for Argentina! The hosts have a dangerous free-kick just outside the upper-right corner of the penalty area, which Lionel Messi expertly curls toward the doorstep. However, Ecuador somehow manages to clear the ball in a frantic scramble! How did no one in an Albiceleste jersey find the net???

Watch in the USA:

¡Se la perdió Argentina!

Ni Cuti Romero, ni Alexis Mac Allister pudieron abrir el marcador.

Argentina 0-0 Ecuador

EN VIVO por @Telemundo#RumboAlMundial #Somos26 #EliminatoriasSudamericanas pic.twitter.com/232SstnufY

— Telemundo Deportes (@TelemundoSports) September 8, 2023

50th min: Argentina appears to lack fresh ideas coming out of halftime. Enzo Fernandez expresses his frustration by sending a long-range shot well over the crossbar.

Kickoff: The second half is underway with no changes from either side. We’ll see how long Argentina goes before making substitutions.

HALFTIME: Argentina 0-0 Ecuador

The first 45 minutes were a significant struggle for both teams. Argentina dominated possession, accounting for 70 percent, but achieved very little with it. The few opportunities they had in front of the net were squandered by the in-form Lautaro Martinez, and Argentina supporters will be eager to see Julian Alvarez get involved.

Ecuador, on the other hand, had almost no attacking possession, mustering three shots, although that may be generous. Moises Caicedo had a tough time in midfield, but the rest of the La Tri squad managed to keep Argentina in check.

Argentina vs. Ecuador: First Half 45+2 min: Opportunity, Argentina! Another long ball disrupts Ecuador’s defense, and this time Lautaro Martinez strikes the post just before halftime! There’s a hint of offside, but it won’t matter as his sliding attempt is denied by the woodwork!

Watch in the USA:

¡El palo salvó a Ecuador!

Rodrigo De Paul envió un centro que remató Lautaro, pero se estrelló en el poste.

Argentina 0-0 Ecuador

EN VIVO por @Telemundo#RumboAlMundial #Somos26 #EliminatoriasSudamericanas pic.twitter.com/RZ8N5CuhRV

— Telemundo Deportes (@TelemundoSports) September 8, 2023

45+1 min: Opportunity, Argentina! Frustrated by Ecuador’s solid defense, Argentina resorts to a direct approach, sending a long ball into the penalty area for a header opportunity. Felix Torres clears it, but nervously, causing the Ecuador defense to send the ball over their own crossbar!

The resulting corner is dealt with, but in the aftermath, Moises Caicedo commits a hard foul on Alexis Mac Allister. The Chelsea midfielder is fortunate not to receive a booking.

25th min: It’s been a challenging start for Chelsea midfielders Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo. Caicedo has already committed three fouls and struggled in one-on-one situations, while Enzo Fernandez made a poor pass, conceding possession at the center circle. Not an ideal start for Todd Boehly’s team.

21st min: Enzo Fernandez fouls Pervis Estupinan in midfield, giving Ecuador a brief break from Argentina’s dominance in possession. The hosts have controlled 66 percent of the ball so far.

16th min: Opportunity, Argentina! Lionel Messi narrowly misses to the right! Alexis Mac Allister advances into the left side of the penalty area and lays it back for Messi, who is waiting at the top of the penalty area, but his first-time shot veers wide of the target! Lautaro’s clever dummy created space for Messi to take the shot.

Cerca #Messi de abrir el marcador para la #Argentina

EN VIVO por @Telemundo #RumboAlMundial #Somos26 #EliminatoriasSudamericanas pic.twitter.com/G6vsaYUWXs

— Telemundo Deportes (@TelemundoSports) September 8, 2023

12th min: Opportunity, Argentina! Lionel Messi takes the free-kick and delivers it perfectly into the penalty area. However, Lautaro Martinez, at full stretch, fails to make contact with the cross, and the ball ends up safely in the arms of Hernan Galindez! A missed opportunity for Argentina on their first chance at goal!

10th min: Moises Caicedo fouls Lionel Messi in midfield, awarding Argentina a set-piece from approximately 45 yards out. It’s too far for a direct shot on goal, even for the skilled Messi. We’ll see who takes the free-kick from this deep position. Following the foul, Caicedo requires treatment but signals to his teammates that he’s okay before rejoining the game.

5th min: Ecuador is making an effort to push Argentina toward the flanks, and this tactic is proving effective so far. The hosts are finding it challenging to penetrate centrally as they advance, being forced to distribute the ball out wide. Nahuel Molina is actively supporting Nico Gonzalez, while Lionel Messi operates more centrally.

This strategy appears to be an attempt to contain Messi and compel other Argentine players to take on Ecuador. It remains to be seen how successful this approach will be throughout the match.

pic.twitter.com/tbe0fKfz8z

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) September 8, 2023

Kickoff: The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign has commenced for Lionel Messi and Argentina! With the expanded World Cup format and CONMEBOL qualifying process, the reigning champions are almost guaranteed to secure a spot.

Just 20 seconds into the match, Ecuador is flagged for an offside offense, with Gonzalo Plata being caught offside directly from the kickoff.

The reigning champions are back on the road to the #FIFAWorldCup! ​​#WeAre26

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) September 8, 2023

The post Argentina vs Ecuador score, result, highlights as Lionel Messi delivers again to begin World Cup qualifying appeared first on Sports News.

Vilda was among those who publicly supported Rubiales when he adamantly refused to step down, despite facing widespread backlash for an incident during the title celebrations in Sydney last month. During the celebration, Rubiales kissed player Jenni Hermoso on the lips without her consent, a move that triggered outrage and condemnation.

Rubiales further exacerbated the situation by making a crude and offensive gesture by grabbing his crotch after the final match. These actions led FIFA to provisionally suspend him, and he is now facing a legal case initiated by the Spanish government over his conduct. The storm of criticism surrounding Rubiales has resulted in numerous calls for his resignation.

In retrospect, Vilda expressed his disapproval of Rubiales’ behavior, acknowledging its impropriety. Meanwhile, men’s coach Luis de la Fuente had initially applauded Rubiales’ controversial remarks, referring to “false feminists,” but he later apologized, acknowledging that his applause had been a regrettable lapse in judgment.

The post Spanish soccer federation fires women’s national team coach Jorge Vilda amid Rubiales controversy appeared first on Sports News.

Sánchez joined Tottenham from Ajax 2017 for a club-record fee of €42 million. In his first two seasons, he was a key player for the London side, helping them reach the Champions League final in 2019. However, his form and confidence have declined, and he has fallen out of favor under several managers.

The 27-year-old made only 12 starts in all competitions last season and has featured just once as a substitute this season under new boss Ange Postecoglou. He has also been left out of the Colombia squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

With only one year left on his contract, Sánchez is looking for a fresh start elsewhere. Rennes have emerged as his potential destination, as they need defensive reinforcements. The French club is competing in the Europa League this season and has also seen Premier League interest in their center-back Arthur Theate.

According to L’Equipe, Rennes has submitted a new bid of €12 million for Sánchez after Tottenham5 rejected their initial offer of €9 million. The Spurs chairman, Daniel Levy, initially held out for €20 million but lowered his demands as the deadline approached.

The report claims that Sánchez wants to join Rennes and is ready to travel to France as soon as an agreement is reached. He is also willing to sign a five-year contract with the Brittany-based side.

If the deal goes through, Sánchez will become Rennes’ sixth summer signing, following Enzo Le Fee, Ludovic Blas, Nemanja Matic, Gauthier Gallon, and Geoffrey Lambert. He will also reunite with former Ajax teammate Donny van de Beek, who joined Rennes on loan from Manchester United earlier this week.

Sánchez has made 205 appearances for Tottenham in all competitions, scoring six goals. He has also won 54 caps for Colombia, scoring one goal.

The post Rennes submit €12M offer for Tottenham’s appeared first on Sports News.

I’m not leaving! pic.twitter.com/kVwGkOz7i9

— Manchester City (@ManCity) September 14, 2023

“My future is with Manchester City and that is the best thing for me,” he said. “I am delighted to continue at a club that competes for trophies every year and I can’t wait to see what the next few years bring.”

During his tenure with the club, Walker has clinched five Premier League titles, the Champions League, two FA Cups, and four League Cups, accumulating an impressive total of 15 trophies with Manchester City. His remarkable contribution has been reflected in 260 appearances for the club, while he has also proudly represented England on 78 occasions.

City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain, lauded Walker’s exceptional footballing prowess, emphasizing his unmatched combination of speed, strength, and experience. He hailed Walker as the world’s premier right-back, a player whose unique attributes add a distinct dynamism to their team.

The post Kyle Walker announces Manchester City extension with ‘Wolf of Wall Street’ parody appeared first on Sports News.

Neymar: A Star Dimmed

A recurring image that has haunted fans and Neymar himself is that of the Brazilian star leaving the field in tears due to injury. This time, a torn ACL and meniscus have forced him to confront a daunting road to recovery. The injury transpired during Brazil’s 2-0 World Cup qualifying loss to Uruguay, casting a shadow over Neymar’s ambitions. Al Hilal, his Saudi club, confirmed the injury and the need for surgery, adding another chapter to Neymar’s storied career filled with highs and lows.

Neymar’s journey has been marked by incredible talent overshadowed by heartache. The 2014 World Cup in Brazil saw him ruled out of the tournament with a fractured vertebra, thanks to a fateful collision with Colombia’s Juan Zuniga. In the 2022 World Cup, he was on the brink of facing another injury-related setback, only for a quarterfinal loss to Croatia to dash his hopes of winning the coveted trophy.

Ronaldo and Messi: New Horizons

In stark contrast, Neymar’s contemporaries, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, have embraced new chapters with renewed vigor. Both football giants turned the Ballon d’Or award, recognizing the world’s best player, into a personal duel during their prime years. However, they have since embarked on fresh journeys.

In his early 30s, Ronaldo led the way by moving to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia in December. He was subsequently joined by Champions League-winning peers such as Karim Benzema, Sadio Mane, and N’Golo Kante. This migration of footballing royalty was part of Saudi Arabia’s grand plan to establish itself as a force in soccer.

On the other side of the globe, Messi opted for Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States with Inter Miami. His career ambition of winning the World Cup became a reality, and he’s now making waves in Florida. He has led Inter Miami to victory in the Leagues Cup and attracted superstar fans like LeBron James and Selena Gomez to witness his magic firsthand.

The Tale of Their Careers

Neymar may have been part of Barcelona’s formidable forward line alongside Messi and Luis Suarez when they clinched the 2015 Champions League. However, he was never the linchpin of that trio. Despite his jaw-dropping transfer to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017, he struggled to assert himself as the lead figure, failing to secure the Champions League title for his club. Instead, Kylian Mbappe emerged as the prime candidate to become soccer’s next icon.

Neymar’s decision to move to Saudi Arabia was a part of the nation’s efforts to attract the sport’s biggest names, and he was arguably their most significant coup after missed opportunities with Messi and Mbappe.

As for Ronaldo’s career trajectory, he seemed uncertain after a challenging stint with Manchester United in 2022 and a disappointing World Cup. However, his move to Al-Nassr revitalized his fortunes, with nine goals in European Championship qualifying and continued success in the Saudi league.

Neymar’s Shadow

In contrast to Ronaldo and Messi’s rejuvenation, Neymar’s journey in Saudi Arabia hasn’t gone as planned. He’s been limited to just a handful of appearances due to injury, a far cry from the high-profile move that broke records in the league.

Neymar might have broken Pele’s Brazil scoring record recently, but it’s clear that, at the moment, he remains in the shadows of Ronaldo and Messi.

As the world watches the following chapters in the lives of these footballing titans, one can’t help but ponder the unpredictable paths their careers may take. With Ronaldo and Messi thriving in new environments, Neymar’s journey has hit a roadblock. Yet, in football, as in life, the story is never truly over, and Neymar’s resilience may yet script another thrilling chapter in his career.

The post Neymar’s ACL Injury: A Troubled Start to His Next Chapter as Ronaldo and Messi Thrive appeared first on Sports News.

US Women’s National Team: World-Class Dominance

The US Women’s National Team (USWNT) stands as a beacon of excellence in women’s soccer. With a rich history of success, the team has consistently set high standards, culminating in dominant performances on the global stage.

1. World Cup Triumphs:

The USWNT has claimed four FIFA Women’s World Cup titles, with victories in 1991, 1999, 2015, and 2019. The 2019 World Cup triumph in France was particularly historic, as the team showcased exceptional skill, teamwork, and resilience throughout the tournament. Stars like Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan became household names, inspiring a new generation of soccer players.

2. Olympic Glory:

The team’s success extends to the Olympic Games, where they have secured four gold medals (1996, 2004, 2008, and 2012) and a memorable bronze in 2021. The USWNT’s ability to consistently perform at the highest level in major tournaments has solidified its reputation as a global soccer powerhouse.

3. Trailblazing Players:

Individual brilliance has been a hallmark of the USWNT, with players like Abby Wambach, Mia Hamm, and Hope Solo leaving an indelible mark on the sport. The team’s commitment to excellence and its impact on the growth of women’s soccer globally have elevated its status and influence.

US Men’s National Team: Rising to Prominence

While the US Men’s National Team (USMNT) has faced its share of challenges, recent years have seen a resurgence, marked by promising talent, notable victories, and a renewed sense of optimism.

1. Emergence of Young Talents:

A new generation of American soccer talent has emerged, headlined by players like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Tyler Adams. These young stars have gained prominence in top European leagues, bringing a level of skill and competitiveness that bodes well for the future of the USMNT.

2. Historic Concacaf Nations League Triumph:

In June 2021, the USMNT secured a historic victory by winning the inaugural Concacaf Nations League. The team’s triumph over Mexico in a thrilling final showcased their ability to compete against top regional rivals and marked a significant milestone in the team’s journey.

3. Qualification for 2022 FIFA World Cup:

The USMNT successfully navigated the challenging qualification process to secure a spot in the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The team’s qualification reflects a positive trajectory and signals its intent to compete at the highest level on the global stage.

4. Unity and Team Spirit:

Under the guidance of head coach Gregg Berhalter, the USMNT has fostered a sense of unity and team spirit. The players’ commitment to representing their country with pride and determination has resonated with fans, creating a renewed enthusiasm for men’s soccer in the United States.

Looking Ahead: Aspirations and Expectations

As both the USWNT and USMNT continue their respective journeys, aspirations and expectations are high. The USWNT aims to defend its World Cup title in Australia and New Zealand in 2023, while the USMNT seeks to make a statement at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

The success stories of these national teams have transcended the sport, inspiring millions and contributing to the growth of soccer in the United States. With a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, the future looks bright for American soccer, promising exciting moments and achievements that will further solidify the nation’s standing in the global soccer community.

The post Soccer Spotlight: US Men’s and Women’s National Teams’ Success Stories appeared first on Sports News.

Turkey initially withdrew from the bid to host Euro 2028 and joined forces with Italy’s request for the 2032 edition. This collaborative effort paved the way for the UK and Ireland to secure the hosting rights for the 2028 tournament.

I’ll never forget the summer of 1996 as a teenager – the whole country was buzzing because of the Euros.

Now a new generation will get to experience what that was like – because the UK and Ireland have won the bid to host #EURO2028

Bring it on pic.twitter.com/6L9HZrEwCT

— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) October 10, 2023

Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to co-host Euro 2028, the five football associations that comprise the UK and Ireland bid, including England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland, extended their congratulations to Italy and Turkey for being appointed as hosts for Euro 2032. This joint statement emphasized the unity between the two islands and their commitment to delivering a successful event.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak welcomed the decision, highlighting the chance to create memorable experiences for millions of fans and inspire a new generation of football enthusiasts.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar expressed his delight over the UK and Ireland’s joint hosting of Euro 2028, emphasizing that it will be the most significant event ever hosted by the two islands working in tandem.

This announcement marks a significant moment in European football history, with the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland co-hosting a tournament. The last time England organized a full men’s European Championship was in 1996, which featured 16 teams and was won by Germany.

The proposed venues for Euro 2028 are primarily located in England, including iconic stadiums such as Wembley Stadium, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, St. James’ Park in Newcastle, Villa Park in Birmingham, and Everton’s new stadium in Liverpool, which is currently under construction. In addition to these English locations, Belfast, Dublin, Glasgow, and Cardiff are set to host matches, with Cardiff bidding for the opening game.

This decision underscores the success of a unified effort to secure the hosting rights for these prestigious football tournaments and reflects the growth and collaboration in European football. As the preparations for Euro 2028 and Euro 2032 get underway, fans worldwide can look forward to exciting and memorable competitions in these iconic host nations.

The post Euro 2028 Heading to UK and Ireland, Italy and Turkey to Host Euro 2032 appeared first on Sports News.

A mere three months ago, Milan was a club mired in uncertainty. New ownership, helmed by Gerry Cardinale of RedBird Capital Partners, had raised eyebrows with the controversial departure of club icon Paolo Maldini from his role as sporting director. Furthermore, fan-favorite Sandro Tonali was sold to Newcastle United for a staggering sum. Milan seemed destined for a tumultuous summer akin to Tottenham Hotspur’s post-Gareth Bale era in 2013.

However, the start of the 2023-2024 season has ushered in a new era of optimism for Milanisti. With three wins from three matches, eight goals scored, and only two conceded, AC Milan currently shares the Serie A summit with rivals Inter Milan. So, how did this transformation occur?

The answer lies in the astute signings of Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Christian Pulisic, acquired from Chelsea after being deemed surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge. These two talents, aged 27 and 24 respectively, were not merely investments for the future; they brought immediate impact to Milan’s midfield.

Loftus-Cheek’s Role

Ruben Loftus-Cheek, in particular, has brought a fascinating dimension to Milan’s tactics. Last season, manager Stefano Pioli predominantly employed a 4-2-3-1 formation with Sandro Tonali and Ismael Bennacer as double pivots. While this setup aimed to facilitate the team’s connection with left-winger Rafael Leao through a creative No. 10, it often faltered as opposition defenses stifled Milan’s attacking flow.

This season, Pioli has masterminded a shift to a 4-3-3 formation. Loftus-Cheek, partnered with fellow newcomer Tijjani Reijnders, occupies one of the two box-to-box No. 8 roles, with Rade Krunic providing defensive cover as the sole sweeper. The outcome has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Milan’s fluidity and unpredictability have markedly improved with this tactical adjustment. Loftus-Cheek’s ability to make piercing runs from the right wing, complemented by the explosive duo of Theo Hernandez and Leao on the left, has revitalized Milan’s attack. His knack for dribbling past defenders, shielding the ball, and providing key passes makes him a unique and invaluable presence in midfield.

The Pulisic Factor

Christian Pulisic, too, has found his niche in this resurgent Milan side. Pulisic’s versatility as a right-winger, capable of coming inside and hugging the touchline, offered Milan a multifaceted attacking approach. With support from Loftus-Cheek and the presence of Leao on the opposite wing, Pulisic remains unmarked by opposition defenders. Moreover, Olivier Giroud’s willingness to link up with his teammates adds another dimension to Milan’s attacking playbook.

The partnership between Loftus-Cheek and Pulisic is auspicious. Their synergy is evident in their movement on the pitch, with Loftus-Cheek often making wide runs to create space for Pulisic’s incisive passes.

Pulisic’s role as a goalscoring winger was precisely what Milan had been searching for. His ability to both cut inside and provide crosses, along with his unpredictability, has enhanced Milan’s offensive firepower.

As Milan seeks to build on this impressive start to the season, the contributions of Loftus-Cheek, Pulisic, and their midfield partner Reijnders will be pivotal. Their goalscoring prowess, combined with Milan’s formidable attacking quartet, including Giroud and Leao, has the potential to make the Rossoneri a dominant force in Serie A.

AC Milan is no longer predictable and sluggish in attack. Thanks to these space-changers, Milan is back on track to recapture its glory days in Italian football. With a team growing in confidence and creativity, Milan’s resurgence could be just the beginning of a new era of success for the club.

The post SERIE A: How Space-Changers Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Christian Pulisic Have Reinvigorated AC Milan appeared first on Sports News.