Bayern Munich sporting director Christoph Freund has provided an update on Jamal Musiala’s recovery, with the Germany midfielder potentially able to feature in the club’s next match against Schalke.

Musiala remains sidelined after continuing his rehabilitation, but the latest assessment has raised the possibility of a return when Bayern travel to Schalke on Saturday, 5 September. The match is scheduled to begin at 19:30 Moscow time.

The 23-year-old has not played a single minute for Bayern Munich this season. His absence means the club have started the campaign without one of their leading midfielders, while his recovery has remained a matter of interest ahead of the trip.

Freund spoke about Musiala’s condition as Bayern prepared for their upcoming away fixture. Although the midfielder is still working his way back to fitness, the information surrounding his rehabilitation suggests he could be considered for the match.

No confirmation has been given that Musiala will definitely be selected or take part against Schalke. His possible involvement will depend on his condition as Bayern complete their preparations for the game.

The fixture will be played away from home, with Bayern facing Schalke in the next scheduled match on their calendar. The start time is set for 19:30 Moscow time, and supporters will be able to follow the action through LiveResult’s text commentary.

Musiala’s continued absence has been particularly notable because he has yet to appear for Bayern this season. The club therefore face the possibility of welcoming him back after he completes his recovery, although the precise extent of his involvement against Schalke remains unclear.

Freund’s comments provide the latest indication that the midfielder is moving closer to a return. For now, however, Musiala remains in the recovery process, and Bayern will assess him before deciding whether he is ready to rejoin the squad for competitive action.

The match against Schalke will therefore offer the first possible opportunity for Musiala to make his seasonal debut. Bayern’s travelling party and the midfielder’s final fitness assessment will determine whether that opportunity becomes a reality.

Real Sociedad have confirmed that Arsen Zakharyan is not injured, despite the Russian midfielder spending a third consecutive match on the substitutes’ bench.

The club’s press attache, Yon Ander Munduate, said Zakharyan’s omission was a selection decision rather than the result of a fitness problem. He also confirmed that the 23-year-old would be released for Russia’s upcoming international friendlies if the national team coach decides to select him.

Munduate made the comments in an exclusive interview with online publication Euro-Football.Ru after Zakharyan again remained an unused substitute.

Asked whether the player was carrying an injury, Munduate said: “Arsen Zakharyan is not injured, he did not play because of that. Against Celta, Zakharyan warmed up with all the other players in the second half.”

Zakharyan has now been on the bench for three consecutive matches for Real Sociedad without making an appearance. His latest absence prompted questions over whether the midfielder had been left out as a disciplinary measure after previously expressing frustration at not being brought on.

Munduate rejected that suggestion and said the decision was based on competition within the squad.

“No, the coach spoke very well about him earlier. He has team-mates who are currently ahead of him,” he said.

The comments indicate that Zakharyan remains available for selection at Real Sociedad, but has not been preferred by the coaching staff in recent matches. The club did not suggest that his current situation was linked to any medical issue.

Zakharyan is included in Russia’s extended squad for the forthcoming friendly matches. Munduate was asked whether Real Sociedad would allow the player to join up with the national team if he was called into the final group.

“Of course, we will release him if the coach wants that,” Munduate said.

The midfielder has made only one appearance in the Spanish league this season. His limited involvement means he has spent the latest three matches watching from the substitutes’ bench, although he was involved in the warm-up during the second half against Celta.

Zakharyan joined Real Sociedad from Dynamo Moscow and is Russia’s representative at the Spanish club, but his current role has been restricted as other players have been selected ahead of him. The club’s explanation provides no indication of an injury or a suspension and instead points to the manager’s assessment of the available squad.

His possible involvement with Russia will therefore depend on the national team coach’s final decision, with Real Sociedad stating that they would release him if requested.

Atletico de Madrid manager Diego Simeone has highlighted the gap between his side and Spain’s two dominant clubs, saying: “In Spain there is Real Madrid and Barcelona, and after them come everyone else.”

Simeone was speaking about the strength of Atletico de Madrid’s squad in comparison with Real Madrid and Barcelona, the two teams he believes set the standard in Spanish football. His comments underline the scale of the challenge facing the Madrid club as it attempts to compete with the country’s most established powers.

Atletico de Madrid are currently third in La Liga after three matches. Simeone’s side have collected seven points from their opening fixtures, leaving them behind the leading teams in the early league table.

Their next opportunity to build on that start comes away from home against Athletic Club in the fourth round of matches. The game will be played on Saturday, 5 September, with kick-off scheduled for 17:15 Moscow time.

The meeting with Athletic Club will give Atletico de Madrid the chance to strengthen their position near the top of the table. With seven points already secured, the team has made a positive beginning to the campaign, although Simeone’s assessment places that progress within the wider hierarchy of Spanish football.

His comparison with Real Madrid and Barcelona focuses on the depth and quality available to the leading clubs. While Atletico de Madrid sit third after the first three rounds, Simeone’s comments suggest that he considers the two traditional giants to occupy a separate level above the rest of the division.

The fixture against Athletic Club will therefore be the immediate focus for the Atletico de Madrid manager and his players. It is the fourth-round contest in their La Liga schedule and will take place away from home on Saturday afternoon.

For Simeone, the early league position provides evidence of a strong start, but his wider remarks point to the continuing difficulty of competing with Real Madrid and Barcelona. Atletico de Madrid have seven points from three games, while their manager has made clear how he views the structure of Spanish football beyond those opening results.

The match is due to begin at 17:15 Moscow time, with Atletico de Madrid seeking to add to their points total and maintain their place among the leading sides in La Liga.

Hull City have extended Algeria international Bachir Belloumi’s contract until June 2029, with the agreement also including an option for a further year.

The 24-year-old winger has chosen to remain with the English club despite reported interest from Villarreal and several other European sides during the summer. His new deal rewards a steady rise since arriving from Portugal and confirms Hull City’s desire to build around a player who has quickly become an important part of their squad.

Belloumi’s representative, Madjid Bouameur, welcomed the agreement in an interview with Maghreb-Foot, as the player committed his immediate future to the Tigers.

Belloumi makes an impact in the Premier League

The Algeria international established himself as a key figure for Hull City after returning to full fitness from a serious knee injury suffered in November 2014. He featured in 25 matches last season and played a significant role in the club’s promotion to the Premier League.

Belloumi has made an encouraging start to life in England’s top division. He delivered an all-round performance in Hull City’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United, showing his attacking threat as well as his contribution to the team’s wider play.

The winger followed that display by recording his first assist in his next appearance, further strengthening the impression that he can operate effectively at the highest level of English football.

Hull City’s directors moved quickly to secure his long-term future after those early performances. Belloumi is currently valued at 6 million euros, while his annual salary in England is reported to be 426,190 euros, equivalent to 277,023,500 FCFA.

The new contract represents a notable step in the career of the former Farense player, who has opted to continue his development at Hull City rather than pursue a move elsewhere in Europe. His decision comes as the club prepares for another Premier League fixture.

Hull City are due to play Aston Villa in their third match of the English championship. The published betting prices for the game list Hull City at 4.20 to win, with a draw priced at 3.60 and an Aston Villa victory at 1.85.

Ilaix Moriba is expected to remain at Celta de Vigo this season after the Spanish club rejected interest from Besiktas and reaffirmed its intention to keep the Guinea international.

According to information from Matteo Moretto, the 23-year-old midfielder will not leave Celta de Vigo during the current transfer window, despite approaches from several European clubs. Besiktas is the latest side to have registered an interest, with the Turkish club making contact in recent hours.

That enquiry was swiftly dismissed by the Galician club, which does not appear willing to negotiate Moriba’s departure. Celta de Vigo had already turned down a number of proposals for the player and has consistently maintained that he remains an important part of its plans.

Ajax Amsterdam previously explored the possibility of signing Moriba on a paid loan with an option to buy 50% of his rights. That structure failed to persuade Celta de Vigo’s directors, who rejected the offer.

Bayer Leverkusen also made an attempt to take the midfielder on loan, but its proposal included an obligation to buy and was rejected as well. The two approaches underline the level of interest in Moriba, although neither produced an agreement with the Spanish club.

Celta de Vigo view Moriba as a key member of their squad for the season ahead and are not currently prepared to consider his sale. The player remains under contract until 30 June 2029, giving the club a strong position in discussions with potential suitors.

Moriba’s estimated market value is €15m. He earns an annual salary of €1,620,000 in Spain, equivalent to 1,053,000,000 CFA francs.

The midfielder joined Celta de Vigo’s plans despite the competing offers because the club considers him central to its sporting project. Unless there is a significant change before the transfer window closes, Moriba is set to continue his spell in Spain rather than move to Besiktas, Ajax Amsterdam or Bayer Leverkusen.

Celta de Vigo’s next fixture will come against Getafe in the fourth round of the Spanish championship. The match is also accompanied by betting prices from 1xBet, with Celta de Vigo listed at 3.40 to win, a draw priced at 2.85 and a Getafe victory at 2.30.

For now, the club’s stance on Moriba is clear: European interest has not altered its position, and Celta de Vigo intend to retain the Guinea international for the forthcoming campaign.

Real Madrid will seek a fourth consecutive victory at the start of the 2026/27 LaLiga season when they face Real Betis at Estadio La Cartuja on Friday evening, with Jose Mourinho considering changes to his side ahead of their UEFA Champions League opener.

Mourinho’s team have taken maximum points from their first three league matches against Real Sociedad, Espanyol and Malaga. The results have given the returning Real Madrid manager an ideal beginning to his second spell in the Spanish capital as he attempts to win LaLiga, having finished behind Barcelona in each of the past two campaigns.

Barcelona have also won all three of their opening fixtures, meaning Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points in Andalucia if they are to maintain the early pace at the top of the table.

The match also comes four days before Real Madrid begin their UEFA Champions League campaign at home to Inter Milan on 8 September. Bernardo Silva, Eduardo Camavinga and Arda Guler are all suspended for that European fixture because of bans carried over from last season, and their unavailability could lead to all three being included in the starting XI against Real Betis.

That situation would allow Mourinho to manage the workload of several key players. Jude Bellingham is a potential candidate to begin the game on the bench as Real Madrid look to preserve his fitness for the meeting with Inter Milan.

Bellingham has made an impressive start to the domestic campaign, scoring twice from midfield. However, he is still working his way back to full fitness after representing England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The fixture will also reunite Mourinho with Troy Parrott, his former Tottenham forward. Mourinho famously questioned whether Parrott had the ability to establish himself at the highest level, and the pair will now meet again with Parrott representing Real Betis.

The predicted Real Madrid line-up is: Thibaut Courtois; Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konate, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella; Bernardo Silva, Eduardo Camavinga; Arda Guler, Brahim Diaz, Vini Jr.; Kylian Mbappe.

Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 UK time on 4 September 2026.

Real Madrid’s recent record at Real Betis provides an additional test for Mourinho’s side. They have failed to win on any of their last four league visits, a run that goes back to their most recent victory at the club, a 1-0 success in 2021.

Record spending by Premier League clubs has provided a crucial source of income for French teams, which are increasingly being forced to sell their leading young players to remain financially stable.

English clubs spent about 800m euros (£687m) on players from Ligue 1 during the summer transfer window. That represented roughly one-fifth of the Premier League’s total expenditure of 4.1bn euros (£3.5bn).

More than 20 players moved from France to England, according to figures compiled by Transfermarkt, including five transfers worth more than 50m euros. The two most prominent deals saw Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi move from Lille to Manchester City for 100m euros (£85.6m), while France winger Bradley Barcola joined Liverpool from Paris Saint-Germain for a total of 145m euros (£124m).

There was also a steady stream of less-publicised transfers, underlining how Ligue 1 continues to develop talented players before selling them to wealthier clubs abroad.

Qatar-owned Paris Saint-Germain, ranked the fourth-richest club in the world in this year’s Deloitte Football Money League, remain the notable exception to the trend.

PSG coach Luis Enrique said Barcola had left because “he wanted to have more importance in the team, and that is something you have to earn in training. I can't guarantee that to any player”.

For most other French clubs, however, major sales have become essential to balancing their finances.

Mali midfielder Mamadou Sangare moved from Lens to Brentford for 48m euros (£42.9m), just below the 50m-euro threshold. Jeremy Jacquet’s transfer from Rennes to Liverpool was agreed in January before being completed in July, while Belgium forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo joined Newcastle United from Lille.

Senegal winger Ibrahim Mbaye left PSG for Aston Villa. The age of many of the players involved was particularly striking: Mbaye and Bouaddi are both 18, Jacquet and Fernandez-Pardo are 21, while Barcola is a comparatively experienced 24-year-old.

French clubs have long been willing to give opportunities to young players. Bouaddi was named player of the match for Lille in a Champions League victory over Real Madrid on his 17th birthday.

Players have been leaving France for more glamorous neighbouring leagues for decades. But whereas Lyon were once able to retain Karim Benzema until he had made almost 150 appearances before selling him to Real Madrid, clubs now often have to cash in much earlier. Jacquet had made only 33 appearances for Rennes before departing.

The pressure is being driven not only by the attraction of the Premier League but also by the worsening financial position of French football.

Ligue 1 is home to back-to-back Champions League winners PSG. By selling Barcola, the club recouped the money it had already invested in three new forwards, including Spain World Cup-winner Ferran Torres.

Across the rest of the division, revenues have fallen sharply following the collapse of Ligue 1’s domestic television deal. With broadcasters unwilling to pay enough for the rights, the league launched its own streaming service last year.

Reports suggest the total television revenue distributed among all 18 Ligue 1 clubs last season was about 200m euros (£172m). That was approximately the same amount as Arsenal, last season’s Premier League champions, received on their own, according to The Athletic.

“We are waiting for there to be more money flowing down to the clubs,” said Lille president Olivier Letang. “At the moment there is very little and I, like my colleagues, am very worried about that.”

Several of France’s traditional powers were left trying to manage the consequences. Lyon sold Malick Fofana to Sunderland after failing to qualify for the Champions League.

Marseille made no new signings because of their financial position, while Monaco were frustrated when an anticipated major transfer to England fell through.

Monaco abandoned plans to sell Senegal midfielder Lamine Camara to Chelsea when it appeared Folarin Balogun was about to join Everton for £40m. The United States striker subsequently changed his mind.

“We needed to reduce our wage bill by around 20 per cent, so we still need to find solutions,” said Monaco managing director Thiago Scuro.

For French football, keeping the books balanced has become more important than ever, with Premier League spending offering both a valuable lifeline and a stark reminder of the financial gap between the two leagues.

Ayoub Bouaddi has made such a strong impression on Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca that the teenager is now expected to receive more playing time than originally planned.

The 18-year-old newcomer has stood out in training since arriving at Manchester City, according to journalist Jeremy Cross. Maresca had been prepared to give the Moroccan time to adapt, taking into account his age and the demands of playing for the club.

However, Bouaddi’s performances have changed the manager’s thinking. The teenager’s work on the training ground has reportedly impressed Maresca to such an extent that the former plans to involve him more quickly and more regularly than had first been anticipated.

Bouaddi made his Manchester City debut in the second round of the English championship, coming on in the 4-1 victory against Crystal Palace. It was his first appearance for the club after joining the squad and beginning work under Maresca.

Maresca’s initial approach was understood to centre on patience. At 18, Bouaddi is still at the beginning of his senior career, and the manager was ready to allow him time to adjust to a new environment before placing greater responsibility on him.

That cautious plan appears to have been revised following the player’s early displays in training. Although the available information does not specify the role Bouaddi is expected to take on, his progress has clearly attracted the attention of the Manchester City head coach.

His debut against Crystal Palace provided the first opportunity to see him involved in a competitive match for the club. Manchester City recorded a 4-1 win, and Bouaddi has now begun his time with the team after making the transition from newcomer to first-team player.

The next match for Manchester City is scheduled for 5 September against Coventry. That fixture could offer another opportunity for Bouaddi to build on his debut and demonstrate why Maresca has become more willing to use him.

The change in expectations reflects the impression Bouaddi has made since his arrival rather than any alteration to the manager’s assessment of his age. Maresca was initially ready to wait, but the teenager’s performances have encouraged him to consider a faster route into the team.

According to Cross, Bouaddi’s impact in training has therefore become the key factor in Manchester City’s revised plans. The club’s next match against Coventry will show whether that increased confidence leads to another appearance for the Moroccan youngster.

Nigeria’s D’Tigress have been backed by the National Sports Commission (NSC) to launch their 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup campaign with victory against South Korea in Berlin on Friday.

The reigning African champions are seeking a response against the Asian side, who defeated Nigeria at the World Cup Qualifying Tournament in France earlier this year.

D’Tigress go into the Group B fixture encouraged by an intensive training camp and a sustained period of preparation under head coach Rena Wakama.

NSC Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade said he believed Nigeria possessed the quality and character to perform strongly on the international stage. He also praised the players for the discipline, patriotism and professionalism they have shown while representing their country.

Olopade said the team had the ability to raise its performance when faced with a major challenge and expressed confidence in Nigeria’s prospects at the tournament.

“I have no doubt that our girls will leave everything on the court in every game, starting with today’s match against the Koreans,” Olopade told the NSC media.

“That is one thing you cannot take away from D’Tigress and their coaching staff.

“I want every Nigerian to rally around the team and put them in their prayers because they definitely need all our support to have a good campaign at the World Cup.”

Friday’s match will be the fourth encounter between Nigeria and South Korea. D’Tigress currently hold the edge in the head-to-head record, with two victories compared with one defeat.

The result will be important in setting the tone for Nigeria’s campaign, with the African champions also scheduled to play Hungary and European powerhouse France in Group B.

The format gives the group winners a direct route to the quarter-finals. Teams finishing second and third will instead need to come through qualification games to secure places in the last eight.

Nigeria’s preparations have taken place under Wakama, who has overseen the team’s build-up to a tournament in which D’Tigress will be aiming to compete strongly against opposition from Asia and Europe.

The NSC has called on supporters across Nigeria to back the team as they begin their World Cup challenge in Berlin. Olopade said the players and coaching staff would need that encouragement during what could be a demanding group-stage campaign.

South Korea’s earlier victory over Nigeria at the qualifying tournament adds an extra competitive edge to the opening fixture. D’Tigress, however, will take confidence from their superior head-to-head record and their status as reigning African champions as they attempt to start the competition on a winning note.

Bayern Munich head coach Vincent Kompany has responded to reports that he asked the club to complete another major signing during the summer transfer window, saying the information came as a surprise to him.

The report concerns an alleged request for Bayern to make one more significant addition to their squad after the club had already committed €100m to the arrivals of Ismael Saibari and Nathaniel Brown.

Kompany was asked to comment on the claims as Bayern prepare for their second match of the German championship season. The Belgian did not provide further details of the reported transfer request in the information available, but the subject was raised in connection with the club’s substantial summer spending.

Bayern’s reported investment in Saibari and Brown is the central background to the story. The club had already spent €100m on the two players before reports emerged that Kompany wanted another major transfer.

The nature of the additional signing was not specified. Nor was any particular player named in the report about Kompany’s alleged request. The available information only states that the Bayern manager was said to have asked the club to carry out another major transfer during the previous summer.

Kompany’s comments come before Bayern’s away fixture against Schalke in the second round of the German championship. The match is scheduled for Saturday, 5 September, with kick-off set for 19:30 Moscow time.

The meeting with Schalke will therefore provide the immediate focus for Bayern after the discussion surrounding their transfer activity. The claims about a further signing remain the subject of Kompany’s comments, while the club’s confirmed spending mentioned in the report stands at €100m for Saibari and Brown.

The headline surrounding the story presents the manager’s reaction as one of surprise: “That became a surprise for me.” His response was directed at the information that he had requested another major transfer, rather than at a confirmed announcement of a new arrival.

No details were given about whether Bayern acted on the alleged request, whether negotiations took place or whether another deal was close to completion. The report also does not identify the position Kompany supposedly wanted to strengthen.

For now, the known points are that Kompany has addressed the claims, Bayern have spent €100m on Ismael Saibari and Nathaniel Brown, and the German champions are due to travel to face Schalke on 5 September.

Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has spoken about Jamal Musiala’s recovery, with the midfielder yet to feature for the club in the new season.

Musiala has not played in any of Bayern Munich’s matches so far this campaign. The Germany international was also involved in two worrying incidents during pre-season, when he lost consciousness.

Kompany has now provided a comment on the progress of the 22-year-old’s recovery. However, the available report does not include a projected date for Musiala’s return to competitive action or indicate whether he will be considered for Bayern Munich’s next fixture.

His absence means Bayern Munich must continue preparing without one of their most important attacking midfielders. Musiala’s return remains a matter of interest as the club move into the early stages of the new season, although there is no suggestion in the report that he is ready to play.

Bayern Munich are due to travel to face Schalke on 5 September. The Bundesliga match, which will be the second round of the German championship, is scheduled to begin at 19:30 Moscow time.

The fixture will take place while Musiala remains unavailable for selection, unless his recovery develops sufficiently for him to be involved. No such involvement has been confirmed.

Kompany’s comments therefore provide an update on Musiala’s situation without changing the immediate picture: the midfielder has not appeared this season, and his comeback remains pending following the two pre-season episodes in which he lost consciousness.

The report contains no further medical information about those incidents and does not specify the nature of the issue affecting Musiala. It also does not state when he will resume team training or return to matches.

For now, Bayern Munich’s next confirmed fixture is the away game against Schalke. The match will be played on 5 September and is scheduled for a 19:30 start in Moscow time, with Musiala’s availability still unresolved.

The main development is that Kompany has addressed the midfielder’s recovery. The German club are still waiting for Musiala to make his first appearance of the season, while no return date has been given.

Real Betis host Real Madrid on 4 September, with the Primera meeting scheduled to kick off at 22:00 Moscow time. The match will be shown on Match TV, while supporters will also be able to watch a free online stream via Winline and follow live text coverage on LiveResult.

Real Betis began the campaign with two successive victories, beating Real Sociedad and Valencia by the same 1-0 scoreline. Those results gave Manuel Pellegrini’s side an ideal start and left them among the early pace-setters in the table.

That momentum disappeared in the third round, however, when Real Betis suffered a heavy defeat away to Levante. The Seville club conceded five goals and lost 5-2, a result which halted their perfect beginning to the season.

Real Betis have collected six points from their opening three matches and currently sit seventh in the standings. They will now face the only side in the fixture to have won every game so far.

Real Madrid have gone through the opening stage of the championship without dropping a point. Jose Mourinho’s team have recorded three victories from three matches and have nine points, giving them a three-point advantage over Real Betis before the meeting.

The fixture therefore presents Real Betis with the chance to respond immediately to their defeat by Levante, while Real Madrid will aim to maintain their flawless record. The contrast in recent form is clear: Pellegrini’s side have won twice but were heavily beaten in their most recent outing, whereas Mourinho’s team have continued to take maximum points in every match.

The game is due to begin at 22:00 Moscow time on 4 September. Television coverage is planned for Match TV.

A free broadcast of the match will be available on the Winline website. Football fans who prefer to follow developments through written updates can use the LiveResult portal’s live text commentary.

Africafoot’s live football news feed is tracking the latest transfer developments involving African players on 4 September 2026, with deals, loan moves and club announcements involving players in Belgium, Italy, Turkey and elsewhere.

The day’s leading moves include Galatasaray’s loan signing of Franco-Congolese defender El Chadaille Bitshiabu from RB Leipzig, while Nigerian winger Elijah Olaniyi Odede has joined Lommel SK from ESTAC Troyes.

Odede leaves Troyes for Lommel

ESTAC Troyes have confirmed the departure of left winger Elijah Olaniyi Odede, who has moved to Lommel SK on a season-long loan.

The 19-year-old Nigerian will play in the Jupiler Pro League during the 2026/27 campaign. The agreement does not include an option to buy.

Odede joined Troyes last summer and remains under contract with the French club until 30 June 2030. His estimated market value is €600,000.

Cercle Brugge sign Zagadou on loan

Cercle Brugge have announced the arrival of Ivorian forward Prince Zagadou from FC LYS Sassandra.

The 18-year-old has joined the Belgian club on a one-season loan which includes an option to buy. He is expected to play for Jong Cercle, Cercle Brugge’s reserve side.

The move was confirmed by Cercle Brugge on Instagram.

Bitshiabu arrives at Galatasaray

Galatasaray have added central defender El Chadaille Bitshiabu to their squad on loan from RB Leipzig.

The 21-year-old Franco-Congolese player has signed for one season, with the Turkish club holding an option to make the move permanent.

Bitshiabu, who came through the Paris Saint-Germain academy, joined Galatasaray from RB Leipzig. He is contracted to the German club until 30 June 2029 and has an estimated market value of €18m.

Keller set for Belgium move

Cameroon central defender Stephane Keller is temporarily leaving Al Ittihad to continue his career in Belgium with SK Beveren.

Keller has agreed a season-long loan, according to journalist Ben Jacobs, and will now look to establish himself with his new club while continuing his development.

The player remains contracted to Al Ittihad until 30 June 2029. His estimated market value is €400,000.

Dagba joins Carrarese

Franco-Beninese right-back Colin Dagba has found a new club after being without a team since 1 July 2026.

The 27-year-old has signed for Carrarese, who play in Serie B. His transfer was confirmed on the club’s Instagram account.

Dagba has agreed a contract running until 30 June 2028, with the option of extending it by a further year. His estimated market value is €500,000.

Diomansy Kamara has criticised clubs for blocking African players from pursuing transfers, after Crystal Palace rejected Liverpool’s approaches for Ismaila Sarr and AS Monaco kept hold of his Senegal team-mate Lamine Camara.

The player agent made his criticism in a message shared by transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano shortly after the European transfer window closed. Kamara strongly objected to what he sees as clubs preventing players from leaving against their wishes.

The situations involving Sarr and Camara have become prominent examples of the tensions that can arise when a player’s preferred move conflicts with his club’s plans.

Kamara argued that a football contract should not be treated simply as a financial arrangement between two institutions. In his view, the wishes and ambitions of the player must also be given proper consideration when transfer decisions are made.

Liverpool made several proposals for Sarr during the summer, but Crystal Palace turned down each of them. The Senegal winger then took his disagreement with the club further by refusing to play in matches and declining to take part in training.

Sarr also removed references to Crystal Palace from his social media accounts, making his desire to leave clear. Despite that public show of protest, the club maintained its refusal to sanction a transfer.

Kamara used the dispute to emphasise what he believes is the importance of the players themselves to football’s success. His argument is that the sport depends first on the people who compete on the pitch, rather than only on the financial calculations made by clubs and institutions.

Camara found himself in a similar position at AS Monaco. The Senegal international was also retained by his club despite interest and the possibility of a move elsewhere.

The closure of the transfer window in Europe’s five major leagues has now left both players with limited immediate options. They could still move to a club in Turkey or the Middle East, where the transfer window may remain open, or wait until the winter window before seeking a new solution.

For Sarr, the immediate focus could return to Crystal Palace’s domestic schedule. The club are due to play Fulham in their third match of the English league season.

Ahead of that fixture, betting company 1xBet lists Crystal Palace at 3.00 to win, with a draw priced at 3.30 and a Fulham victory at 2.20. The company also provides an option to download its 1xBet application.

The latest developments leave Sarr and Camara facing an uncertain period. Unless a move to Turkey or the Middle East can be arranged, both Senegal internationals may have to remain with their current clubs until the winter transfer window.

Arsenal can bring Ethan Nwaneri back from Borussia Dortmund in January, should Mikel Arteta need reinforcements because of injuries or decide the midfielder’s form merits a return to the Premier League champions.

Nwaneri, 19, joined Borussia Dortmund on loan for the 2026-27 season after finding his opportunities limited under Arteta. However, the agreement does not necessarily rule out an earlier return to North London, with Sky Sports Germany reporting that Arsenal have retained a mid-season recall option.

The clause gives Nwaneri an opportunity to continue his development in the Bundesliga while keeping open the possibility of rejoining Arsenal during the second half of the campaign. A decision could depend either on the Premier League club’s injury situation or on whether the teenager performs strongly enough in Germany to convince Arteta that he should be brought back.

Nwaneri’s move to Dortmund follows a familiar path for promising English players. Jadon Sancho, Jude Bellingham and Jamie Gittens have also made the switch to the Bundesliga club, where they continued their development after facing competition for regular first-team football elsewhere.

For Nwaneri, the loan represents another stage in a career that appeared to be moving quickly after his Arsenal breakthrough. He remains the youngest player in Premier League history, having made his club debut against Brentford in 2022 at the age of 15 years and 181 days.

That appearance raised expectations that Nwaneri could become a regular member of Arsenal’s senior side. His current spell in Germany suggests that immediate first-team involvement in North London has not materialised, but the January provision means his long-term future may still lie with the Premier League champions.

Nwaneri will hope that regular opportunities at Borussia Dortmund can help him regain momentum and demonstrate that he remains capable of establishing himself at Arsenal. His loan therefore offers the midfielder a chance to prove his form away from the pressures of competing for selection in Arteta’s squad, while also leaving Arsenal with the ability to change the arrangement before the season ends.

The earliest opportunity for Nwaneri to begin that process could come on his potential Borussia Dortmund debut. He could play for the Bundesliga club tomorrow in an away match against Hoffenheim.

His arrival places him alongside a group of English players who have previously taken the route to Dortmund, while the recall option ensures that the move is not necessarily a full-season separation from Arsenal. For now, Nwaneri’s immediate focus will be on making an impression in Germany, with his performances potentially influencing whether he remains abroad for the rest of the 2026-27 campaign or returns to Arteta’s squad in January.

Michael Carrick says he has no desire to take part in Manchester United training sessions, insisting his players do not want him “hanging around” and trying to recreate methods from his playing career.

Carrick’s side responded to their opening-day Premier League defeat by newly promoted Hull City with an impressive 5-2 victory over Ipswich Town last weekend.

Despite conceding twice, United produced a performance that suggested they are returning to their best. New signings Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans have also appeared to settle quickly, both on and off the pitch, since moving to the club.

Carlos Baleba is expected to return to training in the coming weeks, providing a significant boost to a United team targeting a title challenge this season.

Carrick, who has extensive experience from his playing career, was asked about the extent to which he becomes involved in practical work during training. He made clear that his role is now focused on coaching rather than joining in with the players.

"No," he smiled. "I genuinely haven't missed playing and I don't really have an urge to get involved in training either.

"I think the odd time I've had to do it, maybe. Not so much now.

"Time's passed too long where I'm not at the stage where when... The first year or two you can maybe get away with it. But I think you've kind of got to move on and play your role.

"The boys don't want me hanging around trying to get involved, trying to say 'This is what we used to do, lads, and this is how you do it,'" Carrick said.

"I don't think that works. I know where my role is now, and it's very different to that, and I'm quite happy with that."

Carrick’s comments underline his belief that United’s current squad must develop its own standards rather than rely on lessons taken directly from his time as a player.

The club’s first match after the transfer window closes will be away at Everton. That fixture will be followed by United’s opening Champions League match, which will take place at home against Sabah.

With preparation for the Everton game under way, Carrick will continue to oversee proceedings from outside the playing group. He will instead monitor the squad closely as he assesses which players are best placed to make an impact on Sunday.

United’s victory over Ipswich gave them an immediate response after the setback against Hull City, while the early form of Santos and Tielemans has added encouragement. Baleba’s anticipated return is another positive development for a side aiming to compete for the title over the course of the season.

Paris Saint-Germain’s difficult start to the Ligue 1 season continues with a meeting against Monaco, who have made a perfect opening to the campaign and currently lead the table.

The reigning French champions are 12th after two rounds, with two points from a possible six. Paris Saint-Germain have avoided defeat so far, but they have been unable to claim a win, drawing both of their matches 2-2.

Their first stalemate came against Rennes before they recorded the same scoreline against Lille. Those results have left Paris Saint-Germain eight points behind Monaco at this early stage of the season.

Monaco, by contrast, have won both of their opening league matches. The six points collected by the side have taken them to the top of the Ligue 1 standings.

The start to the campaign has been particularly impressive defensively, with Filipe Luis’ team yet to concede a goal. That record gives Monaco the strongest possible platform ahead of their trip to face the reigning champions, while Paris Saint-Germain will be seeking their first victory of the season.

The match is scheduled to begin on 4 September at 22:05 Moscow time. Live coverage of the game will be shown on the Okko Sport channel.

A free broadcast of the match is available on the Winline website. Live text coverage will also be provided by the LiveResult website.

The contrast between the two teams’ starts makes the fixture an important early test for both sides. Paris Saint-Germain have collected points in each of their first two matches but remain outside the leading places because both games ended in draws. Monaco have taken maximum points and have not allowed an opponent to score.

For Paris Saint-Germain, the immediate objective is to turn their unbeaten record into a first league win. The two 2-2 results have produced four goals in total across their opening matches, but the champions have also failed to protect either lead well enough to secure victory.

Monaco arrive with six points and an unblemished defensive record. Filipe Luis’ side can therefore begin the match from the summit of the table, while Paris Saint-Germain start it in 12th position.

Viewers can follow the match through Okko Sport, with Winline offering a free online broadcast and LiveResult providing text updates throughout the encounter.

Paris Saint-Germain have been named clear favourites to beat Monaco in the French championship on Friday, 4 September 2026, with analysts giving the home side a 71.2% chance of victory.

The match, which puts the spotlight on the meeting between Aleksandr Golovin and Matvey Safonov, is scheduled to begin at 22:05 Moscow time. PSG will have home advantage, while Monaco will attempt to repeat the result from the clubs’ most recent meeting.

Bookmakers’ analysts have rated a PSG win considerably more likely than either a Monaco victory or a draw. Their forecast gives Monaco an 11.3% chance of taking all three points, while the probability of the match finishing level is assessed at 17.5%.

Those figures make the Parisian club the strong pre-match favourite, according to the available predictions. The expected outcome is therefore a home victory, although the analysts’ percentages do not rule out either a draw or an away win.

Monaco won the last encounter between the two sides, defeating PSG 3-1 on 6 March 2026. That result provides the immediate background to Friday’s fixture, with PSG looking to respond and Monaco seeking another positive result against the same opponents.

The previous meeting ended with a two-goal margin in Monaco’s favour. The latest forecasts, however, point towards a different result this time, with PSG receiving the highest probability by a significant distance. Monaco’s 11.3% rating is below both the projected chance of a draw and the likelihood assigned to the hosts.

The match will be played on 4 September, with the opening whistle due at 22:05 Moscow time. The fixture will also be available as a live broadcast on our sports portal.

The contrasting predictions ensure that PSG begin the game under the greater weight of expectation. Monaco’s earlier 3-1 success remains the most recent head-to-head result, but the bookmakers’ assessment places the emphasis firmly on the home side ahead of this meeting.

In percentage terms, the three possible outcomes account for the complete forecast: 71.2% for a PSG win, 11.3% for a Monaco win and 17.5% for a draw. Based on those calculations, analysts have identified PSG as the most likely winners of the match involving Golovin and Safonov.

Ferran Torres says Luis Enrique’s confidence in him was the key reason he joined Paris Saint-Germain from Barcelona last summer.

The Spain forward discussed his relationship with the Paris Saint-Germain head coach after completing his move to the French club. Torres summed up the motivation behind the transfer by saying: “Enrique believes in me, so he called me to PSG.”

Torres, 26, joined the Paris club in a deal worth €48.5m. He signed a long-term contract that runs until the end of June 2031.

The move brought the forward from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain after his spell with the Catalan club came to an end last summer. His decision to join the French giants was closely linked to the presence of Luis Enrique, who Torres says showed confidence in his ability.

That backing was central to the player’s explanation of the transfer. Rather than focusing only on the financial details or the length of his contract, Torres highlighted the role played by the manager in persuading him to move to Paris.

His comments also underline the importance of the coach-player relationship at the beginning of his Paris Saint-Germain career. Luis Enrique’s faith in Torres was the principal reason given by the Spain international for choosing the club.

The transfer fee of €48.5m made Torres one of Paris Saint-Germain’s significant summer arrivals, while the agreement until June 2031 represents a long-term commitment from both the player and the club.

For Torres, the move marks a change from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain and places him under the management of a coach he believes in him. Luis Enrique’s involvement was decisive in bringing the forward to the French capital, according to the player.

Paris Saint-Germain have therefore secured Torres on a contract lasting through the end of June 2031, with the 26-year-old now beginning his association with the club. His first comments have focused on the manager’s influence and the confidence that helped shape the transfer.

The Spanish forward’s explanation is straightforward: Luis Enrique wanted him at Paris Saint-Germain, and that trust convinced him to make the move from Barcelona.

Cercle Brugge have completed the signing of Nigerian winger Tunde Akinsola from Portuguese club AVS Futebol SAD.

The 23-year-old has agreed a contract with the Belgian Pro League side until June 2030, with Cercle Brugge holding an option to extend the deal by a further year.

Akinsola is expected to strengthen the club’s attacking options, with his pace, explosiveness and individual ability viewed as key assets. He can operate on either flank and is capable of playing in several attacking positions.

The winger will join up with his new team-mates once the remaining administrative formalities have been completed.

Cercle Brugge technical director Luciano Murchio said the club were convinced Akinsola’s qualities would suit their style of play.

“Tunde is a strong one-v-one player who can be very dangerous in the final third and in transition moments,” Murchio told Cercle Brugge’s official website.

“Thanks to his versatility, he can play across several attacking positions and adds extra quality to our offensive options.

“He is the type of attacker who fits the way Cercle wants to play, and we are convinced he will create many dangerous attacking moments.”

Akinsola started his career in Nigeria with Valiant FC before moving to Sweden as a teenager. He joined Vasalund at the age of 17, beginning his development in European football with the Swedish club.

His next move took him to Spain, where he signed for Real Valladolid in 2022. The forward initially played for the club’s reserve side before progressing to the first-team squad.

Akinsola made his La Liga debut the following year, appearing as a substitute against Sevilla.

He moved to Portugal at the beginning of 2024, joining AVS Futebol SAD on loan. The transfer was made permanent later in the same year, allowing him to continue his development with the Portuguese club.

During his time at AVS, Akinsola established himself as one of the side’s standout performers. His performances were built around his acceleration, technical ability and direct approach in attack.

Cercle Brugge will now hope those qualities can translate to the Belgian Pro League as Akinsola begins the next stage of his career.

The move gives the Belgian club a versatile attacking option under a long-term agreement, while Akinsola will continue his progress in Europe after spells in Sweden, Spain and Portugal.

By Adeboye Amosu