Off-Pitch & Press

Saka and Saliba Committed to Arsenal’s Future

Bukayo Saka, William Saliba (Arsenal)
September 2025

Arteta revealed Saka and Saliba want to stay long-term, despite ongoing contract talks. Both have two years left and remain key to Arsenal’s project. Saliba also handed the club a boost by returning early from injury ahead of Nottingham Forest. Arsenal are optimistic of securing extensions, with sporting director Andrea Berta leading negotiations. Interest from Real Madrid lingers, but Arteta stressed both players are motivated to write history at the Emirates, joining teammates who already signed new deals this season.

Ex-City Winger Musampa Arrested in Tax Fraud Probe

Kiki Musampa
September 2025

Dutch authorities arrested former Manchester City winger Musampa over alleged €100k tax fraud, accusing him of misreporting residency while earning income in the Netherlands. Investigators seized documents and luxury watches during a raid at his home. Released after questioning, Musampa denies wrongdoing. He played 45 games for City from 2005–06 and now serves as Ajax reserves’ assistant coach. The case raises questions over financial transparency for ex-players involved in coaching and side ventures.

Tottenham Legend Roberts Reveals Cancer Battle

Graham Roberts
September 2025

Former Spurs defender Graham Roberts announced he is undergoing radiotherapy and brachytherapy for prostate cancer. Sharing a heartfelt message, he launched a fundraising appeal for Prostate Cancer UK, aiming to raise awareness while undergoing treatment himself. Tottenham and fans rallied behind Roberts, reposting his call. His daughter Hollie is walking 5km daily throughout October to support the Prostate United campaign. Roberts vowed to join her when possible, turning his fight into a platform for saving lives.

Martino Explains Miami Exit, Calls for MLS Growth

Gerardo “Tata” Martino
September 2025

Martino stepped down as Inter Miami coach for personal reasons, saying he needed to spend six months in Argentina. While proud of his MLS success, he admitted leaving was bittersweet given the club’s growth potential with Lionel Messi and others. He stressed the league must tweak rules to help strong teams remain competitive, citing reliance on designated players and reduced squads after success. Martino, linked with jobs in South America, says he’s open to returning to MLS if reforms are made.

FA hits Chelsea with 74 historical charges

Chelsea FC
September 2025

The FA charged Chelsea with 74 alleged breaches tied to agents, intermediaries, and third-party investment—largely from 2010/11 to 2015/16 during Roman Abramovich’s ownership era. The club must formally respond by mid-September. This is separate from on-pitch matters but could bring fines, oversight, or other regulatory outcomes. Expect complex legal wrangling over legacy practices, documentation, and accountability across ownership transitions. Timelines may stretch, but the volume underscores the FA’s scope.

Mac Allister vs Hincapié sparks new PL rivalry

Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool)
September 2025

Tempers flared in stoppage time after a heavy challenge involving Mastantuono. Mac Allister shoved Hincapié; words flew; Ecuador won. Later, Mac Allister posted “YOU ARE NOT LIKE THAT!” on Instagram, hinting at unfinished business before their Premier League clashes. Beyond international heat, this tees up a tasty domestic subplot: Hincapié’s £45m Arsenal move and Mac Allister’s Liverpool status put them on a collision course in title-race territory. Expect physical duels, mind games, and narrative fuel when Anfield meets Emirates.

Abramovich Loses EU Sanctions Appeal

Roman Abramovich
September 2025

Roman Abramovich has failed in his attempt to overturn European Union sanctions imposed in 2022 after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The EU court ruled travel bans and asset freezes remain “necessary and appropriate,” rejecting Abramovich’s claims of reputational harm. Judges cited Abramovich’s ties to Evraz, accusing the steel giant of fueling Russian state revenues. Despite denying links to Putin, the court deemed his wealth inseparable from Kremlin influence. Abramovich’s appeal for damages was also dismissed, leaving sanctions intact indefinitely.

Lalas Blasts Pochettino for ‘Training Session’ Remark

Alexi Lalas
September 2025

U.S. legend Alexi Lalas hit out at Mauricio Pochettino for framing September friendlies as “training sessions,” saying the coach undermined the honor of representing the national team. Lalas insisted matches still matter deeply to players and fans, regardless of competitive stakes. Speaking on his podcast, Lalas urged Pochettino to “read the room,” stressing respect for supporters. He highlighted America’s traditional strength in the underdog role, pointing to their resilient draw with England at the 2022 World Cup as proof the U.S. can rise against giants.

Hjulmand Takes Over at Leverkusen After Ten Hag Exit

Kasper Hjulmand
September 2025

Bayer Leverkusen have appointed Kasper Hjulmand as their new head coach after sacking Erik ten Hag just three games into the season. The former Denmark boss has signed a deal until 2027, aiming to restore stability at last year’s Bundesliga runners-up. Ten Hag’s reign ended abruptly after one point from two league games, with Sporting Director Simon Rolfes admitting his hiring was a mistake. Hjulmand, praised for guiding Denmark to the Euro 2021 semi-finals, brings calm leadership and a player-focused approach to reignite Leverkusen’s ambitions.

Onana Clashes With Fan After Cameroon Loss

Andre Onana (Manchester United/Cameroon)
September 2025

Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana was filmed angrily shoving a fan after Cameroon’s 1-0 World Cup qualifying defeat to Cape Verde, a game in which he was criticised for failing to close down the scorer Dailon Livramento for the winning goal. Frustration boiled over as Onana, already under fire for frequent errors, clashed with a supporter seeking a selfie, leading to a scuffle and a thrown water bottle. His decline has prompted United to sign Senne Lammens, with Onana expected to join Trabzonspor on loan.

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