Off-Pitch & Press

Basler Blasts Kimmich’s Midfield Role

Joshua Kimmich
September 2025

Former Germany star Mario Basler slammed Julian Nagelsmann’s reliance on Joshua Kimmich in midfield, arguing his free role destabilises Germany’s balance and unfairly sidelines Leon Goretzka. He even suggested dropping the captain altogether and pairing Goretzka with Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller instead. Despite Kimmich’s strong display against Northern Ireland, Basler claimed his dominance over set-pieces and positioning creates holes, while Goretzka is consistently sacrificed. He insisted Nagelsmann must empower other players like Stiller to avoid overdependence on Kimmich and restore Germany’s midfield cohesion before bigger tests arrive.

Thierry Henry urges USMNT to solve issues before 2026

Thierry Henry
September 2025

Thierry Henry voiced concerns over the USMNT’s poor run under Mauricio Pochettino, stressing the need for urgency ahead of the 2026 World Cup on home soil. The U.S. remain winless in seven games against FIFA top-25 opponents. Speaking at a CBS press event, Henry said Pochettino’s side lacks a defined system and cutting edge, despite having quality players like Christian Pulisic and Tim Weah. Drawing parallels to France’s 1998 turnaround, he urged the U.S. to regroup before next summer’s tournament.

Kane praises Levy after Spurs chairman’s exit

Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
September 2025

Harry Kane has hailed Daniel Levy following the Tottenham chairman’s surprise departure after two decades. Despite reported past tensions, Kane described Levy as a “fantastic chairman” who transformed Spurs into a global force and wished him well for the future. Kane admitted Levy’s resignation shocked him but praised their long-standing relationship. With Spurs entering a new chapter after recent Europa League success, Kane stressed Levy’s off-pitch leadership was key in shaping Tottenham’s evolution during his 20-year reign.

Carragher slams Sancho as lacking standout qualities

Jamie Carragher
September 2025

Jamie Carragher has savaged Jadon Sancho, claiming the Manchester United winger lacks “much ability” and offers no standout trait. Sancho, returning from Chelsea, joined Aston Villa on loan after Amorim relegated him to United’s “bomb squad” ahead of his expiring deal. Speaking on The Overlap, Carragher contrasted Sancho with Rashford, saying he cannot pinpoint Sancho’s defining strength. With United unlikely to extend his contract beyond 2026, the winger faces a decisive spell under Unai Emery to salvage his career at Villa.

Kane confirms England prepared for racism protocol in Serbia

Harry Kane (England)
September 2025

Harry Kane revealed England discussed contingency plans if subjected to racial abuse in their World Cup qualifier in Belgrade. The Serbian FA has urged fans to behave, with part of the stadium closed due to repeated past offences. Kane said the team is ready to follow UEFA’s three-step protocol, as they did in Bulgaria in 2019. England remain on alert, knowing Serbia has faced heavy fines and sanctions for discriminatory behaviour in recent years.

Gomez blasts Pochettino after USMNT’s defeat to South Korea

Herculez Gomez
September 2025

Herculez Gomez slammed the USMNT’s 2-0 loss to South Korea, calling it an “abysmal performance” and criticising Pochettino’s inability to win against FIFA top-30 nations. He highlighted tactical shortcomings, poor selections, and a lack of identity under the Argentine coach. Gomez pointed to a pattern of defeats against Mexico, Canada, Panama, Turkey, Switzerland, and South Korea as evidence of systemic failure. He accused Pochettino of failing to build a recognisable system or evaluate talent effectively, leaving the team directionless ahead of qualifiers.

Mourinho sacked by Fenerbahce over playing style, says club president

Jose Mourinho
September 2025

Fenerbahce president Ali Koc confirmed Jose Mourinho was dismissed for his defensive football, despite recording 37 wins in 62 games. A Champions League exit to Benfica exposed flaws, and the board demanded a more dominant style to suit Turkish football expectations. Koc described Mourinho’s exit as a “bitter parting,” praising his achievements but insisting the team needed attacking ambition. He said failing to adapt risked stagnation, with fans demanding control in domestic games. The board opted for change to push the squad forward.

Burley slams Bayindir and Onana as United’s goalkeeping woes deepen

Craig Burley
September 2025

Craig Burley blasted Manchester United’s goalkeepers, calling Altay Bayindir “absolutely useless” at handling set pieces and criticising Andre Onana for failing to live up to expectations. He argued Ruben Amorim must drop Bayindir, with new signing Senne Lammens under pressure already. Burley said Bayindir might save shots but lacks authority, while Onana regressed badly since his Inter Milan days. He believes Lammens must immediately prove himself by commanding his box. Rivals are expected to target United’s keepers with aerial bombardments to expose weaknesses.

Rodri urges Yamal to stay grounded amid Ballon d’Or hype

Rodri (Manchester City)
September 2025

Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal has been warned by Rodri to remain focused after his rapid rise at just 18 years old. The teenager already boasts La Liga and European Championship titles, sparking Ballon d’Or talk among pundits and fans. Rodri was caught telling Yamal during Euro 2024’s final to “keep working” to reach greatness. He cautioned against distractions, stressing hard work and consistency. The message echoes concerns many young stars face when sudden fame threatens long-term focus.

Chicago Sky suspend Angel Reese for critical comments

Angel Reese (Chicago Sky)
September 2025

Angel Reese has been suspended for half a game by the Chicago Sky after making outspoken remarks demanding the franchise sign “great players” to avoid another poor season. The two-time All-Star forward criticised the team’s recruitment strategy in an interview. Reese told media she was unwilling to “settle” for mediocrity, calling for urgent roster upgrades. The Sky responded with disciplinary action, citing team respect and accountability. Reese, averaging 14.7 points and 12.6 rebounds this season, has already missed the Indiana Fever game.

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