Paradise News

Category: Sports

  • Antony’s agent comments on move to Real Betis

    Antony’s time at Manchester United has been anything but smooth, with the Brazilian winger struggling to justify his hefty price tag since arriving from Ajax.

    Despite showing flashes of brilliance early on, his lack of consistency and productivity in the final third left fans frustrated.

    His time under both Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim has been marred by poor form, with questions over his decision-making and end product.

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    With just one goal and two assists in all competitions for United this season, it was clear that a change of scenery was needed to revive his confidence.

    A move to Real Betis on loan provided Antony with a fresh start, and early signs suggest it has been a turning point.

    The Brazilian has hit the ground running in Spain, scoring two goals in his first three games across all competitions and earning two Man of the Match awards in La Liga.

    His performances have been sharper, his dribbling more decisive, and his attacking threat more consistent than anything he had shown in recent months at Old Trafford.

    While his long-term future remains uncertain, his resurgence at Betis has at least reopened the conversation about whether he could still have a role under Amorim at United.

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    Antony’s agent, Emerson Pedroso, spoke on his transfer and confirmed that the player had multiple options but chose Betis as the best fit.

    “Saudi and Premier League clubs wanted him, but Real Betis was the best solution—he’s so happy there,” Pedroso told GiveMeSport.

    He also clarified that, “There’s NO buy option and he respects Amorim a lot… his future at Man United remains an open story,” meaning Antony remains contracted to United despite the temporary switch.

    Pedroso emphasized that Antony continues to hold great respect for Ruben Amorim, leaving the door open for a possible return.

    His future at United remains undecided, and his performances in La Liga could determine what happens next.

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    Source: Centred Devils

  • NPFL Match Day 24: Enyimba strengthen continental push as Akwa United struggle for survival

    Matchday 24 of the NPFL delivered thrilling encounters across the country, with Enyimba securing a crucial 1-0 victory over Rivers United in Aba to boost their continental qualification hopes, while Akwa United’s relegation worries deepened following another disappointing defeat in Ikenne.

    Enyimba claimed a vital 1-0 win over Rivers United at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba, courtesy of a spectacular free-kick from Imo Obot in the 41st minute. This result propels Enyimba to 10th place with 34 points, strengthening their push for a top-three finish.

    Akwa United’s Relegation Woes Deepen

    Akwa United’s battle against relegation suffered another setback as they fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat against Sunshine Stars at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne. Matthew Samuel’s 29th-minute strike, assisted by Waheed Adebayo, proved decisive, leaving Akwa United in a precarious position.

    With this latest loss, Akwa United remain entrenched in the NPFL relegation battle, struggling to find the form necessary to escape the drop as the season enters its decisive stages.

    Lobi Stars and Katsina United Share the Spoils

    Lobi Stars were held to a 1-1 draw at home by Katsina United at the Tafawa Balewa Stadium Bauchi. Tope Akande fired Lobi into the lead in the 69th minute, but a late equalizer from Promise Damala ensured the visitors returned home with a valuable point.

    Meanwhile, Ikorodu City secured crucial away points after playing out a goalless draw against Nasarawa United in Lafia.

    Plateau United Bolster Survival Hopes with Convincing Win

    Plateau United took a significant step in their bid to avoid relegation with a commanding 2-0 victory over El-Kanemi Warriors at the New Jos Stadium in Jos. Emmanuel Ihezuo converted from the penalty spot in the 41st minute, while Olawale Doyeni sealed the win in the 81st minute after an excellent assist from Albert Hillary.

    Despite the victory, Plateau United remain in 15th place with 28 points and still face a challenging fight to secure safety.

    READ MORE:Super sub Umar Sadiq late heroics secure vital draw for Valencia

    Kano Pillars Edge Past Abia Warriors

    A first-half goal from Mustapha Umar in the 42nd minute was enough for Kano Pillars to earn a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Abia Warriors at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.

    The result lifts Kano Pillars to eighth place with 35 points, keeping them within touching distance of the top half of the table.

    Kwara United Grind Out Win Against Bayelsa United

    Wasiu Jimoh’s 78th-minute strike handed Kwara United a narrow but crucial 1-0 victory over Bayelsa United at the Kwara State Stadium in Ilorin. The win keeps Kwara United’s continental football aspirations alive as they move up to seventh place with 35 points, while Bayelsa United remain in 14th place with 29 points.

    League Standings Update

    Remo Stars continue to lead the NPFL standings with 48 points from 23 matches, maintaining an eight-point gap over second-placed Shooting Stars, who have 40 points. Rivers United remain third with 38 points, followed by Abia Warriors (36 points) and Enugu Rangers (35 points), completing the top five.

    Imo Obot celebrating his match winning free kick for Enyimba against Rivers united.

    At the foot of the table, Sunshine Stars remain in the relegation zone with 27 points, while Akwa United and Nasarawa United sit in 18th and 19th positions, respectively. Lobi Stars occupy the bottom spot with 22 points from 24 matches.

    As the NPFL season unfolds, the battle for continental qualification and the fight for survival promise more twists and turns in the coming weeks.

    Source: The Athletic NG

  • Ex Manchester United star speaks out after being subject to racist abuse

    Racism continues to cast a dark shadow over football, with incidents of discrimination still occurring at all levels of the game.

    Despite campaigns like Kick It Out and increased awareness, players continue to face unacceptable abuse both on and off the pitch.

    Clubs and organizations have repeatedly stressed that there is no place for racism in football, yet these incidents persist, highlighting the work that still needs to be done.

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    Manchester United, like many clubs, has a proud history of promoting diversity and inclusivity, with academy graduates from various backgrounds making their mark at the highest level.

    Over the years, United’s youth system has produced stars who have gone on to represent their countries and excel across Europe, carrying the club’s values with them.

    However, racism remains a reality that many players still endure, and one former United academy talent has now spoken out after being targeted.

    The latest incident has once again sparked discussion on how football can better protect players from such abuse and ensure real consequences for those responsible.

    While strong words of condemnation are expected from governing bodies, the focus must be on taking meaningful action to drive lasting change in the sport.

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    Former United player Hannibal Mejbri has publicly condemned the racist abuse he suffered during a match, vowing to speak out against discrimination.

    Taking to social media platform X, he wrote: “I will not be silent about what happened today. I will always call out racism whenever I hear or see it.”

    Mejbri emphasized that challenging racism is essential for progress, stating, “That is the only way we change as a sport and a society.”

    The midfielder expressed his resilience but made it clear that no player should have to endure such treatment, saying, “I am a strong person, but nobody should have to experience this disgusting abuse on the pitch.”

    His words have sparked widespread support, with many urging football authorities to take stricter measures against racism in the game.

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    Source: Centred Devils

  • Calvin Bassey nets first goal of the season as Fulham edge Nottingham Forest

    Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey was the hero as Fulham secured a 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest, extending their dominance in this fixture with a fifth win in six Premier League meetings.

    Fulham started strongly, capitalizing on Forest’s slow start. Adama Traoré tormented Neco Williams down the right flank before delivering a perfect cross that Emile Smith-Rowe headed home to give the hosts an early lead. Fulham nearly doubled their advantage when Raúl Jiménez’s header forced a brilliant save from Matz Sels.

    Despite being outplayed in the first half, Forest found an equalizer before the break. Morgan Gibbs-White’s lofted ball found Chris Wood, who controlled well before smashing in his 18th league goal of the season.

    READ MORE:Super Eagles to face Russia in controversial International Friendly

    With the game finely poised, Fulham needed a moment of magic—and Bassey provided it. Early in the second half, the Super Eagles defender pounced at the back post, steering in Jiménez’s flick-on to restore Fulham’s lead.

    The goal was Bassey’s first of the season and only his second-ever Premier League goal, ending a 24-game scoring drought.

    Beyond his goal, Bassey put in a commanding defensive display, shutting down Forest’s late attempts to snatch a point. Callum Hudson-Odoi tested Bernd Leno in the dying moments, but the Fulham shot-stopper was equal to the effort.

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    The victory keeps Fulham in the hunt for European football, while Forest’s top-half ambitions took a hit. For Bassey, it was a moment to savour—his first goal of the season arriving at the perfect time to seal three crucial points.

    Source: The Athletic NG

  • Manchester United redundancies set to hit scouting department next

    Manchester United’s restructuring under Sir Jim Ratcliffe is continuing at full pace as the club looks to cut costs and create a more sustainable financial model.

    With tight financial constraints and concerns over Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), United have been forced to rethink their long-term spending strategy.

    The club’s January transfer window was quiet, with no major attacking reinforcements arriving, as United shifted focus toward a major summer rebuild instead.

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    However, to fund future signings, the club must first reduce operational expenses, with redundancies and cost-cutting measures already affecting several departments.

    A new stadium project is also in the works, with Ratcliffe considering a complete redevelopment of Old Trafford, which would require significant financial backing.

    Balancing these ambitions while ensuring the team remains competitive on the pitch has led to difficult decisions behind the scenes, and more cuts are expected.

    With United needing to increase revenue streams and streamline operations, the club is making adjustments in areas that were previously untouched.

    Now, the latest department facing sweeping changes is United’s scouting network, which has been a key part of the club’s recruitment strategy for years.

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    United’s department of around 80 scouts is now expected to face significant cuts as part of Ratcliffe’s next round of up to 200 redundancies, according to The Observer.

    The club’s scouting structure, which has long been responsible for identifying talent across multiple markets, is being reduced as part of the ongoing financial overhaul.

    Meanwhile, Christopher Vivell, who was recently appointed in a temporary role, is now expected to take over as United’s permanent recruitment director.

    The move signals a shift in how United will approach player identification and recruitment moving forward, with a more data-driven and efficient process likely to be implemented.

    With major changes continuing behind the scenes, United’s recruitment strategy could look very different in the coming years under Ratcliffe’s leadership.

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    Source: Centred Devils

  • Semi Ajayi returns action after three-month injury layoff

    Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi marked his return to West Bromwich Albion’s starting XI, playing the full 90 minutes in their 1-1 draw against Millwall in the SkyBet Championship.

    The Nigerian international had been sidelined since October 26 after suffering a hamstring injury in a goalless draw against Cardiff City. Following a successful surgery and months of recovery, he finally made his first start in over three months.

    Ajayi was an unused substitute in West Brom’s midweek loss to Blackburn Rovers but was reinstated to the lineup against Millwall, delivering a strong defensive display. He won five duels and made five successful tackles, helping his side secure a hard-fought point.

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    Millwall took the lead in the 19th minute through Femi Azeez, but West Brom responded just seven minutes later when Joe Bryan’s own goal leveled the score. Both teams pushed for a winner, but a resilient defensive effort ensured the match ended in a draw.

    OXFORD, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 19: Semi Ajayi of West Bromwich Albion during the Sky Bet Championship match between Oxford United FC and West Bromwich Albion FC at The Kassam Stadium the home stadium of Oxford United on October 19, 2024 in Oxford, England. (Photo by Adam Fradgley/West Bromwich Albion FC via Getty Images)

    READ MORE:Calvin Bassey nets first goal of the season as Fulham edge Nottingham Forest

    Before his injury, Ajayi had been a key figure in West Brom’s defense, starting 10 of the team’s first 12 league matches. His return comes at a crucial time for the Baggies as they push for a Championship playoff spot.

    It’s also a boost for the Super Eagles, with head coach Eric Chelle expected to count on Ajayi’s experience when Nigeria resumes their CAF World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March.

    Source: The Athletic NG

  • Manchester United exile Antony sends another statement to Ruben Amorim


    Image Credits: GETTY IMAGES

    Antony has had a dream start to life at Real Betis.

    The Brazilian winger struggled at Manchester United after his £86million move from Ajax in 2022.

    Neither Erik ten Hag nor Ruben Amorim found a consistent role for him this season.

    Despite United sitting in the bottom half, Antony was allowed to leave on loan in January.

    He has wasted no time making an impact in Spain under Manuel Pellegrini.

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    After a man-of-the-match display on his debut, he scored his first Betis goal in just his second appearance.

    The game ended in disappointment, though, with Celta Vigo overturning a 2-0 deficit to win 3-2.

    Still, Antony bounced back in style during Betis’ UEFA Conference League play-off against Gent.

    His goal in Belgium on Thursday night added to an already impressive highlight reel.

    Just a minute into the second half, he picked up the ball out wide on the right.

    With two defenders closing in, Antony spun away before curling a superb strike past Davy Roef.

    His confidence appears to be growing, something Amorim hinted could happen back at United.

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    “He needs more confidence,” Amorim said after United’s Carabao Cup exit to Tottenham.

    “If you remember the Antony at Ajax, he lacks a little bit of confidence to go one-v-one, so he will improve.”

    Despite those words, Antony was rarely used under the Portuguese coach.

    Now, it has been left to Pellegrini to unlock the 24-year-old’s best form.

    Betis thought they had a second goal through Ez Abde, but it was disallowed for handball.

    They did make it 2-0 with less than 20 minutes remaining, with Antony involved in the build-up.

    Cedric Bakambu doubled their lead before Sergi Altimira came off the bench to add a third.

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    Source: Centred Devils

  • Tolu Arokodare hits 15th goal of the season as Genk defeat Standard Liege

    Super Eagles hopeful and Genk star striker Tolu Arokodare continued his prolific form, netting his 15th league goal of the season in a crucial 2-1 away victory against Standard Liege on Matchday 26 of the Belgian Pro League.

    In the 78th minute, Arokodare displayed his aerial prowess, leaping high to connect with a cross and powering a header inside the right post to give Genk a 2-0 lead. His goal from a difficult position showcased his sharp instincts and finishing ability, further cementing his reputation as one of the league’s top scorers.

    With this victory, Genk solidify their position at the top of the Belgian Jupiler Pro League, amassing 60 points—nine points ahead of defending champions Club Brugge. Club Brugge, who feature Nigerian international Raphael Onyedika, remain in pursuit but face an uphill battle to close the gap.

    READ MORE:Super Eagles defender Jamilu Collins on the brink of Cardiff City exit

    Arokodare’s latest goal extends his impressive tally to 15 goals in 26 matches, keeping him at the top of the scoring charts. Having been rested in the previous match against Cercle Brugge, the Nigerian forward returned in style, proving to be an essential piece in Genk’s title ambitions.

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    With just a few matches left in the regular season, Genk will look to maintain their dominance and push for the championship playoff spots. Arokodare’s form will be crucial in determining the club’s success as they aim for league glory.

    Source: The Athletic NG

  • Erik ten Hag offers advice to Manchester United man


    Image Credits: GETTY IMAGES

    Tyrell Malacia was one of the first signings under Erik ten Hag at Manchester United.

    He initially impressed with his balance in both defence and attack.

    The left-back provided solid performances as a deputy for Luke Shaw, showing promise in his first season at Old Trafford.

    However, his progress was derailed by a knee injury in July 2023.

    This later required two surgeries and kept him sidelined for over 500 days.

    Now back in action, Malacia has been loaned to PSV Eindhoven for the rest of the season.

    The Dutch side have an option to sign him permanently.

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    Speaking to Voetbal International, Erik ten Hag shared his thoughts on Malacia’s move.

    He has urged him to make the right choices under Peter Bosz.

    “It’s a shame for him and also for United that things went wrong afterwards and that two operations were needed instead of one,” he said.

    “Hopefully for him all the misery is over.

    “Hopefully, he can focus again on getting completely fit and playing matches.

    “It is especially important that Tyrell now continues to make the right choices.

    “In the attacking game that Peter Bosz wants to play, he must be able to handle his qualities well.”

    The former United manager also explained how Malacia’s strengths could suit PSV’s system.

    “Tyrell is a back that is good in the structure if he can play inverted when he comes on the inside.

    “He is good at the ball and can manage well in the small space.

    “These are all things he needs in PSV football. A bit like [Sergino] Dest also plays.

    “Standing up and then going over it on the outside, he can, but he misses a bit of the real power.

    “The content and a good last pass for it.”

    United fans will be hoping Malacia returns in good form and sharp fitness.

    However, with Patrick Dorgu’s arrival pushing him further down the pecking order, it remains difficult to see him becoming a key player under Ruben Amorim.

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    Source: Centred Devils

  • Manchester United player picks up issue in training


    Image Credits: GETTY IMAGES

    Ruben Amorim spoke to the media ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with Tottenham.

    Amorim confirmed one player is unwell, while the other issues were picked up during training.

    However, he refused to disclose the names of those affected.

    Speaking in his press conference, Amorim provided an update on the squad’s condition.

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    “No, was a good week until two days ago,” he said.

    “We had some problems also.

    “So we don’t have players back, maybe we have one or two issues but we are waiting.

    “We have one player also who is sick so we will see the team at the weekend.

    “But was good to work with the team, to feel the players and to try to improve our performance.”

    United remain without long-term absentees Jonny Evans, Mason Mount, and Luke Shaw.

    Lisandro Martinez is also unavailable after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

    With first-team options looking thin, Amorim hinted that some academy players may well be drafted into the squad for the trip to Spurs.

    United’s U18s impressed in midweek, thrashing Chelsea 5-1 in the FA Youth Cup fifth round.

    Hat-trick hero Chido Obi was among those who shone.

    But Amorim stopped short of naming specific players who could be involved.

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    “I don’t want to say names because we have to be careful with that,” Ruben Amorim stressed.

    “They are working with us.

    “We had some problems this week, we called some young players to be in our training.

    “So we will have the data and evaluation and he is one of them.”

    Meanwhile, Amorim chose to sympathise with under-pressure Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou.

    Spurs currently sit 14th in the Premier League.

    United are two points ahead in 13th, and Amorim acknowledged the similarities between their struggles.

    “I’m a huge fan of Ange Postecoglou,” he said.

    “We are not winning games and I can understand the connection between me and Ange.

    “In my opinion, with all due respect, I am in a bigger club with bigger pressure so I understand the pressure.

    “I think it’s important for the coach to follow all of these principles.”

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    Source: Centred Devils