FOOTBALL

Getafe Closing in on Free Agent Patrick Bamford

Patrick Bamford (free agent)
September 2025

Getafe are close to signing Patrick Bamford after the striker’s release from Leeds. The 32-year-old, twice a Championship winner, is expected to travel to Madrid to finalise a move following Crystal Palace’s swoop for Uche on deadline day. Bamford, who scored 60 goals in 205 games for Leeds, rejected Chelsea earlier in his career before becoming a key figure at Elland Road. His arrival would strengthen Getafe’s attack and offer valuable experience after losing Christantus Uche to Palace.

Rashford Criticised for ‘Self-Sabotage’ After Lateness

Marcus Rashford (Barcelona, on loan from Manchester United)
September 2025

Marcus Rashford was dropped for Barcelona’s clash with Getafe after arriving late to a team meeting, just days after scoring twice against Newcastle. Pundit Troy Deeney accused him of “self-sabotage,” reigniting concerns over his discipline despite his match-winning talent. Rashford impressed off the bench in a 3-0 win but faced criticism for repeating old habits, having previously been punished for lateness at United. Hansi Flick has also disciplined Raphinha and Jules Kounde, making punctuality a non-negotiable at Barcelona.

De Jong Commits Future to Barcelona Until 2029

Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona)
September 2025

Frenkie de Jong has agreed to a contract extension with Barcelona until 2029, accepting reduced wages after months of stalled talks. His renewal secures one of Hansi Flick’s most important midfield pillars and brings stability to Barca’s long-term rebuild. Fresh negotiations under agent Sebastien Ledure moved quickly, reviving a deal Joan Laporta called “close.” De Jong, central in Flick’s double pivot, will remain a captain and leader, ending speculation of European rivals circling amid uncertainty earlier this year.

OUSMANE DEMBÉLÉ WINS THE 2025 BALLON D’OR! 🏆 | Emotional Speech ❤️ | CBS Sports Golazo

From rising star to global icon! Ousmane Dembélé secures the Ballon d’Or after an incredible season. Watch the UEFA Champions League live on Paramount+ http://bit.ly/UCLonParamount

Donnarumma Wins Yashin Trophy Before Man City Switch

Gianluigi Donnarumma (Manchester City, ex-PSG)
September 2025

Gianluigi Donnarumma claimed the Yashin Trophy after helping PSG to their quadruple before his summer move to Manchester City. The Italian dethroned Emiliano Martinez to become a two-time winner, having first lifted the award in 2021 after Italy’s Euro triumph. Donnarumma posted 17 clean sheets in 43 matches for PSG last season, before joining City. He has since started strongly in England, conceding just twice in three games, and impressed with a dominant display against Arsenal, showcasing his new accolade at the Etihad.

Enrique and Wiegman Land Top Coaching Prizes at Ballon d’Or

Luis Enrique (PSG), Sarina Wiegman (England)
September 2025

Luis Enrique and Sarina Wiegman were named Coaches of the Year at the Ballon d’Or gala. Enrique led PSG to a historic treble, while Wiegman guided England’s Lionesses to Euro 2025 glory, cementing her reputation as the most consistent coach in the women’s game. Enrique became just the second manager, alongside Pep Guardiola, to achieve the treble twice, having also done so with Barcelona. Wiegman, meanwhile, made history by reaching five consecutive major finals, proving her unmatched ability to sustain success at international level.

PSG and Arsenal Named Clubs of the Year at Ballon d’Or

Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal Women
September 2025

PSG were named Men’s Club of the Year after winning a historic quadruple under Luis Enrique, while Arsenal earned Women’s Club of the Year after dethroning Barcelona in the Champions League. The recognition underscored both clubs’ landmark achievements in Europe last season. PSG lifted the Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and Trophée des Champions, capping a record-breaking year. Arsenal, led by Renee Slegers, became the first English side to conquer the Women’s Champions League, cementing their status as Europe’s premier women’s team.

Gyokeres Crowned Best Striker with Gerd Muller Award

Viktor Gyokeres (Arsenal, Sweden)
September 2025

Arsenal’s summer signing Viktor Gyokeres won the Gerd Muller Award at the Ballon d’Or gala, sparking debate over his recognition as Europe’s best striker. His 54-goal haul with Sporting Lisbon and Sweden, plus domestic trophies, ensured he outshone more established names. Gyokeres delivered a prolific year, winning the Primeira Liga, Taça de Portugal, and player of the year honours before joining Arsenal. In his acceptance speech, he credited hunger and resilience, vowing to make new memories in London after dominating Portuguese and international football.

Dembele Beats Yamal to Ballon d’Or, Teen Wins Kopa Again

Ousmane Dembele (PSG)
September 2025

Ousmane Dembele claimed the 2025 Ballon d’Or after inspiring PSG to a historic quadruple, edging out Barcelona’s teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal. Though disappointed with second place, Yamal retained the Kopa Trophy, his father boldly insisting the top prize will be his next year. PSG’s treble-winning season, capped by a 5-0 Champions League final win over Inter, sealed Dembele’s triumph. Yamal congratulated his compatriot warmly but left Paris motivated, his dazzling rise already cementing him as a Ballon d’Or favourite for 2026 as Barcelona rebuild around him.

Navas Sparks Pumas’ Defensive Revival in Liga MX

Keylor Navas (Pumas)
September 2025

Since Keylor Navas’ debut in Week 3, Pumas have transformed defensively, going unbeaten in seven matches. The Costa Rican veteran has conceded only four goals, earned three shutouts, and lifted Pumas to seventh place after a shaky start with young keeper Rodrigo Parra. Navas’ leadership has reshaped Efraín Juárez’s team into the league’s toughest defense, outpacing Cruz Azul and Tijuana in goals conceded. Though still outside Liga MX’s top five, Pumas’ resurgence has given fans belief they can climb further and avoid the play-in route.