Off-Pitch & Press

Malaysia Appeals FIFA Ban on Seven Naturalised Players

Football Association of Malaysia
October 2025

Malaysia will appeal FIFA’s ruling that banned seven players for falsifying documents to gain eligibility for the national team. FIFA’s disciplinary report revealed the players’ claimed Malaysian ancestry was fabricated, with roots actually in Spain, Argentina, Brazil, and the Netherlands.
The players received 12-month bans and fines, while FAM was hit with a 350,000 Swiss franc penalty. FAM said it already prepared documents to support its appeal and will file promptly. The controversy threatens to destabilize Malaysian football, as the national team risks losing key squad members for an extended period.

Owen Warns England May Struggle at 2026 World Cup Under Tuchel

Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Kyle Walker (Burnley), John Stones, Phil Foden (Manchester City)
October 2025

Ex-England striker Michael Owen has warned that the Three Lions could struggle at the 2026 World Cup due to ageing stars, dips in form, and harsh conditions in North America. He doubts Tuchel’s squad is improving compared to recent years.
Owen noted Kane and Stones are past their peak, Walker will be absent, and players like Foden haven’t maintained prior levels. He also flagged squad depth issues in defence and concerns over fitness in hot U.S./Mexico conditions. Tuchel’s challenge will be building chemistry around younger talents like Bellingham and Saka while phasing out fading veterans.

Rooney Defends Postecoglou Amid Forest Sack Rumors

Ange Postecoglou (Nottingham Forest)
October 2025

Wayne Rooney branded calls for Ange Postecoglou’s sacking at Nottingham Forest “absolutely crazy,” urging fans and ownership to give him time. Forest remain winless in seven matches under Postecoglou, sparking chants for Nuno Espirito Santo’s return and speculation that the international break could trigger a review of his future.
Rooney argued that Forest’s struggles stem from a drastic tactical shift and poor board-level decisions rather than Postecoglou’s ability. He highlighted positive moments against Burnley and Real Betis, saying fans need patience with a coach who “has won trophies everywhere he’s been.” Owner Evangelos Marinakis will reportedly review the situation ahead of Forest’s October 18 clash with Chelsea, a fixture that could determine Postecoglou’s fate.

Saka Eyes England Breakthrough Under Tuchel

Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
October 2025

Saka earned an England recall for games against Wales and Latvia, determined to prove himself to Thomas Tuchel after missing previous camps through injury. He marked his 200th Premier League appearance by scoring in Arsenal’s win over West Ham.
With Bellingham, Foden, and Grealish omitted, Saka’s return offers Tuchel a creative spark. The winger has three goals in seven appearances this season and stressed his desire to stay fit and become a regular starter for the Three Lions moving forward.

Vladimir Smicer Urges Gerrard to Take Wrexham or Birmingham Job

Steven Gerrard
October 2025

Ex-Liverpool star Vladimir Smicer has advised Steven Gerrard to restart his managerial career at Wrexham or Birmingham, seeing them as ideal stepping stones towards eventually managing Liverpool. Gerrard has been out of work since leaving Al-Ettifaq in January.
Smicer told Boyle Sports that Gerrard needs a strong, ambitious project to rebuild credibility before eyeing Anfield. Both Championship sides face off this Friday, with speculation swirling around Gerrard as pressure mounts on Rangers boss Russell Martin, another club linked to him.

Bournemouth Push to Extend Iraola Amid United Links

Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth)
October 2025

Bournemouth have stepped up talks to extend Andoni Iraola’s deal beyond 2026 as speculation grows over Manchester United’s interest. The unbeaten Cherries currently sit sixth in the Premier League after a strong start despite losing several key players in the summer.
TalkSPORT reports United’s uncertainty around Ruben Amorim has prompted Bournemouth to move early. Iraola, 43, has drawn praise for reshaping the squad under pressure, keeping his side resilient. Securing him to fresh terms is seen as vital to maintaining their progress and fend off suitors.

Liverpool, Rivals Await Verdict in Man City’s FFP Case

Manchester City, Liverpool
October 2025

Manchester City await a ruling on 115 FFP charges dating back to 2009–2018. Rivals like Liverpool could launch major compensation claims if City are found guilty, potentially leading to points deductions, transfer embargoes, or expulsion from the Premier League.
Independent hearings concluded in 2024 but judgment remains pending. Finance experts suggest clubs, including FSG, may cover hefty legal costs to claim lost revenue. Everton’s case with Leeds over PSR breaches sets precedent. City maintain innocence, while Premier League chief Richard Masters insists on independent process patience.

Beckham’s Empire Hits £73m Revenue Amid Inter Miami Push

David Beckham
October 2025

David Beckham’s company DRJB Holdings has posted £73m in consolidated revenue, up 1% year-on-year, with profits rising 24% thanks to lucrative partnerships with Boss menswear, Safilo eyewear, Stella Artois and others. The ex-England captain has matured into a boardroom-focused businessman.
While still the face of global campaigns, Beckham now drives growth behind the scenes, leveraging Inter Miami’s Messi-led momentum and deals across lifestyle brands. With Inter Miami pushing for their first MLS Cup, Beckham’s off-pitch success is matching his sporting ambitions.

Álvarez Dismisses Barca Links After Champions League Heroics

Julián Álvarez (Atlético Madrid)
October 2025

Julián Álvarez cooled speculation about a Barcelona move after inspiring Atlético Madrid’s 5-1 Champions League win over Eintracht Frankfurt, where he scored once and set up two. The Argentine has six goals in three games amid renewed links with top European clubs.
Álvarez said rumours don’t distract him, insisting he’s focused on Atlético and daily improvement. Simeone echoed that stance, calling Álvarez “extraordinary” and committed to the team. With his form soaring, Atlético see him as central to their ambitions despite speculation swirling.

Mourinho Thanks Chelsea Fans Despite Benfica Defeat

José Mourinho (Benfica)
October 2025

Mourinho was warmly welcomed back to Stamford Bridge as Chelsea fans serenaded him during their 1-0 Champions League win over Benfica. He expressed gratitude but admitted he thrives on victories, not memories, as Richard Ríos’ early own goal sealed his first Benfica defeat in Europe.
The Portuguese coach, who won eight trophies across two Chelsea spells, acknowledged the fans with gestures during the match but was visibly frustrated at full-time. Despite disappointment, he embraced Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca and reflected on the UK’s culture of honoring past achievements, saying he will “always be a Blue.”

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