football

Real Madrid has said that it “firmly rejects” having a regular-season Spanish league game played in the United States and warned of “a turning point in the world of football”.

Villarreal, in contrast, is promising free travel and tickets for season-ticket holders if its match against Barcelona in Miami is approved, in what would be a first for the league. The 17th-round match in La Liga would be played at Hard Rock Stadium, the home of Barca legend Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami.

Madrid said on Tuesday that it has taken action to keep the December 20 match from happening in the US, claiming it would hurt the “integrity of the competition” and the “legitimacy of the results”.

“The measure, which was taken without prior information or consultation of the clubs participating in the competition, infringes the essential principle of territorial reciprocity, which applies in two-legged league competitions (one match at home and the other at the home of the opposing team), upsetting the competitive balance and giving an undue sporting advantage to the applicant clubs,” Madrid said.

The club said the match would set “an unacceptable precedent that opens the door to exceptions based on non-sporting interests, clearly affecting sporting integrity and risking the adulteration of the competition”.

“If this proposal were to be carried out, its consequences would be so serious that it would be a turning point in the world of football,” Madrid said.

The Europe-wide fan group Football Supporters Europe (FSE) said it was “liaising” with members, soccer stakeholders, affected groups and partner organisations to “collectively resist the latest threat to the very nature of football”.

“We are following the broader impact on football with the utmost concern,” the group said. “Moving games from their domestic territories strikes at the heart of the relationship between fans and their teams, breaking vital links between clubs and their communities.”

The group also criticised a similar move by the Italian league to play a match abroad.

The Italian football federation said in July that a plan was in motion to play the Serie A match between AC Milan and Como in the Australian city of Perth in February.

Madrid asks FIFA and UEFA to withhold permission for Barcelona game

Madrid said it has asked FIFA, UEFA and Spain’s top sport body to not authorise the game in the US. The Spanish football federation on Monday approved a request for the match to be played in Miami. UEFA and FIFA now have to approve the request before it can be made official.

“Any modification of this nature must, in any case, have the express and unanimous agreement of all the clubs participating in the competition, as well as strictly respecting the national and international rules governing the organization of official competitions,” Madrid said.

Madrid and the Spanish league president, Javier Tebas, have often been at odds on various issues.

The club said UEFA should deny the request to play the game abroad, based on the “criterion established in 2018 that prevents official matches in domestic competitions from being played outside national territory, except in duly justified exceptional circumstances, which are not present here”.

Madrid said it asked the country’s high sport council “not to grant the necessary administrative authorization without such unanimous consent”.

“Real Madrid reaffirms its commitment to respect the national and international rules that guarantee the fairness and proper functioning of official competitions, and will defend its compliance with them before all competent bodies,” the club said.

Villarreal hoping to expand its brand in US

Villarreal earlier on Tuesday said that its season ticket-holders can travel for free and receive free tickets for the match. It said those who do not want to go, or cannot go, will get a 20 percent discount on their season tickets.

“We would be the first [Spanish] team to play a league match abroad,” Villarreal’s president, Fernando Roig, told a news conference. “It would greatly help us expand our brand in a key market like the United States.”

Staging a match abroad has long been part of the league’s goal to promote football and its brand in other countries.

It first tried to stage a match in the US in 2018, with a game between Barcelona and Girona, but the idea was dismissed after criticism from players, fans and clubs. Subsequent attempts to play there also failed.

The league had offered compensation packages for Girona fans in 2018.

It was not clear whether it would be Villarreal or the league paying for the travel and tickets for the club’s fans this time.

The attempts to play in the US are part of the league’s long-term partnership with sport and entertainment group Relevent Sports, which is part of Stephen Ross’s portfolio of companies, including Hard Rock Stadium, the Miami Dolphins, the Formula One’s Miami Grand Prix and the Miami Open tennis tournament.

Earlier this year, it was announced that New York-based Relevent Sports has exclusive negotiating rights over the global commercial rights to the UEFA men’s club competitions for the period 2027-2033.

FIFA moved last year towards ending decades of football tradition by ordering a review of its policy that blocks domestic league games from being played in other countries.

Some fan groups in Spain and the country’s players’ association on Monday expressed their disapproval of the plan to move the match thousands of kilometres away.

It has become routine, though, for US pro sport leagues to stage games in Europe, Asia and South America that help build their brands and fan bases.

England beat Sweden on penalties in the Euro 2025 quarterfinal before going on to beat Spain in the final.

England defender Jess Carter said she felt a sigh of relief when her non-Black teammates missed penalties during their shootout win over Sweden in the Women’s Euro 2025 quarterfinals, fearing Lauren James would suffer “astronomical” racist abuse if the forward had been the only player to miss her spot-kick.

England overcame a two-goal deficit to force penalties in Zurich, eventually triumphing 3-2 in a dramatic shootout that featured 14 attempts.

Sweden goalkeeper Jennifer Falk saved four England penalties, including James’ second effort. Beth Mead, Alex Greenwood and Grace Clinton, who are all white, also missed their spot-kicks for England.

“It’s horrible to say but it’s almost like a sigh of relief when other players that weren’t Black missed a penalty, because the racism that would have come with LJ (James) being the only one that missed would have been astronomical,” Carter told United Kingdom broadcaster ITN on Monday.

“It’s not because we want them to fail – it’s about knowing how it’s going to be for us (England’s Black players) if we miss.”

Carter said in July that she had been the target of online racist abuse since Euro 2025 began in Switzerland and announced that she is stepping away from social media for the duration of the tournament.

“It makes you feel really small. It makes you feel like you’re not important, that you’re not valuable,” the 27-year-old said about the effect the abuse had on her.

“It makes you second-guess everything that you do – it’s not a nice place to be. It doesn’t make me feel confident going back on to the pitch. My family was so devastated by it as well and so sad.”

England, who traditionally take a knee before matches as a gesture against racism, opted not to do so before their semifinal against Italy, following Carter’s revelations about the abuse she faced.

She also admitted to feeling fear when England manager Sarina Wiegman informed her she would be playing in the final against Spain, which England won 3-1 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.

“That’s the first time I’ve ever been scared – too scared to play,” Carter said.

“I think it was a mixture of such a big game, but then on top of that (I was) scared of whatever abuse might come with it, whether it’s football-based or whether it was going to be the racial abuse that was going to come with it because I did something wrong.”

Who: Paris Saint-Germain vs Tottenham Hotspur
What: UEFA Super Cup
Where: Bluenergy Stadium in Udine, Italy
When: Wednesday, August 13 at 9pm (19:00 GMT)

How to follow: We’ll have all the build-up on Al Jazeera Sport from 5pm (15:00 GMT) in advance of our live text commentary stream.

The first major trophy of the season is up for grabs and UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain will be targeting a fourth title in the calendar year when they face Europa League champions Tottenham Hotspur.

Luis Enrique’s Parisians swept all before them on home soil and in Europe last year, although success wasn’t to follow on the global stage in the summer.

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank inherits a side that secured their first European trophy in more than four decades. The north Londoners, however, finished only one place above the relegation zone in the English Premier League.

Al Jazeera Sport takes a closer look at the match being played at the home of Italian side Udinese.

What is the UEFA Super Cup?

The competition pits the winners of the previous season’s UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League competitions.

How did PSG and Tottenham qualify for the Super Cup final?

PSG hammered Inter Milan 5-0 in the final of last season’s UEFA Champions League.

French teenage sensation, Desire Doue, scored twice and provided an assist as the Italians were swept aside in Munich.

Tottenham overcame Manchester United 1-0 in the final of the UEFA Europa League.

Brennan Johnson scored the only goal of the game in the first half. It wasn’t enough to save Ange Postecoglu’s job as manager, as the Australian was sacked two weeks later following the 17th-place finish in the Premier League.

What trophies did PSG win in their treble last season?

PSG sealed the 2024-25 Ligue 1 season by an incredible 19 points – despite easing off for the final three-winless matches.

The Parisians also sealed the French Cup, beating Reims 3-0, a week before the Champions League final.

What happened to PSG at the UEFA Club World Cup?

Following their treble, PSG had the chance to follow in the footsteps of Manchester City, who lifted five trophies in a calendar year in 2023.

Pep Guardiola’s side followed up the domestic and European treble with wins in the Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup (CWC) that year.

PSG’s chance to replicate that unique achievement was ended by a shock 3-0 defeat by unfancied Chelsea in the final of this year’s expanded CWC.

Every winner since 2000…

Who’s next? 🤷‍♂️#SuperCup pic.twitter.com/j0Ykxaj94m

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) August 12, 2025

Who are the UEFA Super Cup holders?

Spanish giants Real Madrid beat Italian side Atalanta 2-0 in the final in Monaco last year.

Real were the Champions League holders, having overcome Germany’s Borussia Dortmund 2-0 in the final the previous season.

Atalanta also topped a German side in the Europa League final the year before, as they beat Bayer Leverkusen 3-0.

Are Real Madrid the record UEFA Super Cup winners?

Yes. The Spanish giants’ victory against Atalanta in 2024 was a record-extending sixth Super Cup victory. It was also the fifth time in 11 years that Los Blancos lifted the trophy.

What happens if you win the UEFA Super Cup?

Both finalists have already qualified for this season’s UEFA Champions League based on their European victories last season.

UEFA retains the official trophy, but a replica, alongside 40 gold medals, are presented to the winners to keep.

How much money does the UEFA Super Cup winner get?

The winners will receive a cheque for 5 million euros ($5.8m) in prize money.

The runners-up don’t fare too badly, receiving 4 million euros ($4.64m).

PSG team news

Midfielder Joao Neves is suspended following his red card in the FIFA World Cup final defeat by Chelsea.

Conversely, Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernandez were both suspended for that final but are free to return for this match.

New signing from Lille, Lucas Chevalier, could start in goal with rumours that Gianluigi Donnarumma could be about to leave the club.

Tottenham team news

James Maddison tore his ACL in the preseason friendly with Newcastle United and is now set to miss most of the forthcoming campaign.

Dejan Kulusevski, Radu Dragusin and Dominic Solanke all remain sidelined, while Destiny Udogie is also a doubt.

Spurs last week waved goodbye to their captain, Son Heung-min, who joined Major League Soccer side Los Angeles.

Paris Saint-Germain predicted starting XI:

Chevalier; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz; Doue, Dembele, Kvaratskhelia

Tottenham Hotspur predicted starting XI:

Vicario; Pedro Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence; Bentancur, Palhinha, Sarr; Johnson, Richarlison, Kudus

Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain sign Ukraine international defender Illia Zabarnyi from Bournemouth.

Paris Saint-Germain have signed centre back Illia Zabarnyi from Premier League club Bournemouth on a five-year contract, with the 22-year-old becoming the French club’s first Ukrainian player in history.

Financial details were not disclosed but media reports on Tuesday said the transfer fee was worth about 63 million euros ($73m).

The Ukraine international was a key part of Bournemouth’s defensive lineup last season, making 36 appearances as the club achieved positive goal difference in a Premier League campaign for the first time, finishing ninth.

Zabarnyi is the latest Bournemouth defender to depart this summer after Dean Huijsen joined Real Madrid and Milos Kerkez signed for Liverpool.

“I’m very happy to join Paris Saint-Germain, the best club in the world, with the best project. I am here to give everything I have on the pitch and I’m looking forward to making my debut and meeting the fans,” Zabarnyi said in a statement.

Zabarnyi made his senior debut at his hometown club Dyanmo Kyiv before joining Bournemouth in January 2023 on a five-and-a-half year contract.

The English club awarded Zabarnyi, known for his aggressive defending and dominance in aerial duels, with a contract extension until 2029 after an impressive 2023-2024 campaign.

“We’re delighted to continue the strengthening of our squad with the signature of Illia Zabarnyi. Illia is a talented international player and a great professional. He will make a major contribution to everything that we are building long-term at Paris Saint-Germain,” PSG President Nasser Al-Khelaifi said.

Champions League winners PSG, who also lifted the Ligue 1 and French Cup titles last season, face Tottenham Hotspur for the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday.

The Parisians have also already had nine players nominated for this year’s Ballon d’OR award.

Players from six Valley League football schools came to Granada Hills Kennedy High on Monday for a media day, and you can say without any doubts that Van Nuys senior quarterback Carlos Herrera has been changed by his experiences.

When he decided to try football for the first time as a freshman, he said he knew little about the sport such as putting on shoulder pads. By last season, he was the City Section Division III offensive player of the year after passing for 2,158 yards and 23 touchdowns and running for 807 yards and 12 touchdowns.

“It never crossed my mind,” he said of his football success. “It’s changed my life physically and mentally. It helps me mentally. When I go into the real world, nothing will be as tough a challenge.”

Cousins Diego Montes (left) and James Montes of Kennedy.

(Eric Sondheimer / Los Angeles Times)

Defending league champion Kennedy has the Montes cousins, quarterback Diego Montes and defensive lineman James Montes. Diego has a 4.6 grade point-average, made All-City and is known for his versatility.

“Every time I try to sack him, he runs away,” James said.

Kennedy lineman Lazara Barajas has made big changes physically.

Last season he weighed 298 pounds. Now he’s 262 pounds after he stopped eating chips and used better cardio techniques to drop weight.

First-year Reseda coach Ed Breceda is a Reseda grad and former Regent assistant.

(Eric Sondheimer / Los Angeles Times)

First-year Reseda coach Ed Breceda, who graduated from the school in 2006 and was an assistant coach under former head coach Alonso Arreola, is going back even further, bringing back smash-mouth football from the days of coach Joel Schaeffer. He brought three running backs to the media day — Innis Marquez, Erick Figueroa and Jonathan Orantes.

Many of Reseda’s players are enrolled in the school’s police magnet program. Orantes also is part of the school’s cheer team.

Canoga Park coach Lucius Mills has spent months trying to convince one of his school’s top soccer players, Gabriel Trigueros Estrada, to join the football team. He finally arrived this summer and is showing promise as a senior safety with no football experience. Mills is hoping if Estrada has a good experience, other soccer players will follow in future years.

San Fernando coach Charles Burnley played for the Tigers and is always reminding his players about their strong football tradition. San Fernando produced a Heisman Trophy winner, Charles White.

The Tigers have been strengthened by two transfers from Heritage Christian, quarterback Julian Zarzo and running back Brandon Marshall. But the player to watch could be 6-foot-4, 290-pound junior tackle Paul Villegas.

San Fernando 6-4, 290-pound junior Paul Villegas.

(Eric Sondheimer / Los Angeles Times)

Only 16 years old and part Samoan, he’s gaining physicality and adding strength. And what about his eating skills?

“What didn’t I eat,” he said.

San Fernando plays Sylmar at the Coliseum on Oct. 17.

Brothers Rayleo (left) and Elizeo Reyes of Sylmar might be small in stature but they play with heart and toughness.

(Eric Sondheimer / Los Angeles Times)

Brothers Rayleo and Elizeo Reyes are key players for Sylmar as defensive backs. Never doubt their toughness, for Rayleo is a 5-6, 150-pound senior and Elizeo is a 5-5, 149-pound junior.

“We like to fly around and hit people,” Rayleo said.

Both can’t wait to play at the Coliseum. “I’ve always been a USC fan,” Elizeo said. “It’s a dream come true.”

Panorama is excited about sophomore safety Brandon Hernandez, who ended up starting as a 14-year-old freshman last season.

Asked how do you get someone so young ready to play on varsity, coach Adrian Beltran said, “You make them be best friends with the linemen. He hung out with them at lunch, after school.”

Barcelona’s domination of Real Madrid last season resulted in Los Blancos bringing an end to Carlo Ancelotti’s second tenure – even though he had delivered a league and European double a year previous.

Rumours rumbled for most of the season, after a low-key start at home and abroad, that former Real midfielder Xabi Alonso would be making the switch from Bayer Leverkusen to replace Ancelotti.

With their La Liga and UEFA Champions League defence over, the Madrid-based club wasted little time in announcing Alonso, conveniently at a time when Brazil cranked up their interest in Ancelotti.

All seemed well for a dignified departure for the Italian, club football’s most decorated manager, who now will lead the record World Cup winners into next year’s 2026 edition.

For the perfectly written script to continue, however, Alonso will need to make a strong start on all fronts. Al Jazeera Sport takes a look at the new La Liga season.

When does the La Liga season begin?

The first match of the new Spanish campaign is on Friday, August 15 and sees Girona, who finished only a point above the relegation zone last season, entertain a Rayo Vallecano side that claimed ninth spot in La Liga last year.

Girona were the league’s surprise package two seasons ago when they finished third – only four points behind Barcelona.

When are Barcelona and Real Madrid’s first La Liga fixtures?

Barcelona kick off their La Liga defence on Saturday, August 16, when they make the trip to Mallorca.

Real Madrid are not in action until Tuesday, August 19, when they complete the first round of Spanish top-flight fixtures with a trip to Espanyol.

What transfers have Real Madrid and Barcelona made?

It has been a quiet transfer window for Barcelona, whose finances had been heavily in the spotlight last year with La Liga rules limiting spending on wages and transfers – complicating the registration of Dani Olmo.

The Spanish international arrived from RB Leipzig in Germany for a fee of $62.5m in the summer of 2024, but was nearly forced into a free transfer away from the Catalan club due to their dire financial situation.

The loan of Marcus Rashford, who made his debut in the 5-0 pre-season demolition of Como, from Manchester United is Barca’s only major addition in the off season to their ranks so far.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, have been quick to bolster a defence that has been hampered by injury and suspension throughout last season.

Trent Alexander-Arnold was a much-heralded arrival at a snip from Liverpool for $11.3m. Little expense was spared, however, in the capture of Spanish defensive duo Alvaro Carreras from Benfica for $57.7m and Dean Huijsen for $67m from Bournemouth.

What were the results between Barcelona and Real Madrid last season?

Barcelona won all four El Clasico matches between the football clubs last season, including the decisive La Liga clash, a May 11 meeting in Catalonia. The 4-3 win all but sealed the title for Barca, and also ended any thought that Ancelotti may stay on as manager of Real.

A 4-0 demolition of Real in Madrid on October 26 kicked off the derbies last season, the first major warning signs that Los Blancos may have a turbulent ride ahead.

That defeat for Ancelotti’s side was compounded by a 5-2 hammering in the Spanish Super Cup final in January, before a 3-2 Copa Del Rey final win for Barca in late April left Real facing up to the prospect of a trophyless season.

Where will the spotlight focus on Barcelona and Real Madrid?

The lack of any major additions to Barcelona’s title-winning squad will throw doubt on whether manager Hansi Flick will be able to push the players to go again without further competition for places.

An early-season injury to Robert Lewandowski may mean an early opportunity for Rashford to make his mark in attack alongside Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. The England international has many questions himself to answer following his demise from his status as the star of Old Trafford.

Ferran Torres, the 25-year-old Spanish international, will also be a candidate to start in the place of Lewandowski in the early-season games.

With the resolution of Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s dispute, both the backlines and midfield appear well-resourced for Barca. Flick’s side will be fully expected to put up a stern defence of their La Liga title and to go all the way in the Champions League, a competition they were heavily favourites to win last season until their shock semifinal elimination by Inter Milan.

Real Madrid will have to cope with the loss of Luka Modric in midfield, only a year after the retirement of Toni Kroos – an absence believed to have heavily contributed to Real’s demise last season.

The link-up between the front three of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo was another area of concern for Real. Indeed, so much so that it affected the role of Jude Bellingham, who was forced to sit deeper in midfield following the arrival of the former.

Mbappe eventually silenced the critics. The French international’s tally of 40 goals in all competitions surpassed that of Cristiano Ronaldo in his first season with Madrid.

Nonetheless, the link-up between an attack and midfield, which is now missing both of its mainstays for more than a decade, will be the major problem for Alonso to solve.

Can Atletico Madrid challenge Real and Barcelona?

Atletico finished 14 points off top spot last season, but had offered hope at one stage, with a 15-game winning streak, that glory was on the cards.

Diego Simeone’s side finished sixth in the League Phase of the Champions League, but were eventually eliminated by Real, who themselves had to reach the knockout stage via playoffs. They did also have a disappointing group-stage exit at the Club World Cup, including a 4-0 defeat by Paris Saint-Germain.

Simeone’s side are always based on a solid defence, and the permanent capture of Clement Lenglet following his loan from Barcelona last season ensures that is likely to continue.

An already formidable forward line is boosted by the arrival of Thiago Almada from Botafogo, for an undisclosed fee, following a season-long loan at Lyon last season.

The 24-year-old helped Argentina to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the Copa America last year and was part of his country’s side at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Alongside fellow countryman Julian Alvarez, France and Atletico legend Antoine Griezmann, and Giuliano Simeone, the son of the manager, Almada could well sprinkle the magic needed to elevate Atletico to the top of the pile.

Spain’s football federation has approved a request for Villarreal’s home La Liga game with Barcelona to move to Miami.

The Spanish league is closer to playing a regular-season game in the United States.

The Spanish football federation on Monday approved a request for the match between Villarreal and Barcelona to be played in Miami, Florida on December 20.

The federation will now seek approval from football’s governing bodies UEFA and FIFA.

The 17th-round match in La Liga would be played at the Hard Rock Stadium, the home stadium of former Barcelona star Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami.

The league first tried to stage a match in the US in 2018, but the idea was dismissed after criticism from some players, fans and clubs. Its subsequent attempts to play there also failed.

Staging a match abroad has been part of the league’s goal of promoting football and its brand in other countries. The league is in a long-term partnership with sports and entertainment group Relevent Sports, which is part of Stephen Ross’s portfolio of companies including the Hard Rock Stadium, the Miami Dolphins, Formula One’s Miami Grand Prix, and the Miami Open tennis tournament.

FIFA moved last year towards ending decades of football tradition by ordering a review of its policy that blocks domestic league games being played in other countries.

Fans are likely to object to their teams’ home matches potentially being moved thousands of miles (and kilometres) away, though it has become routine for US pro sports leagues to stage games in Europe, Asia and South America that help build their brands and fan bases.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be staged across the US, Canada and Mexico next year, while FIFA’s expanded Club World Cup has just been hosted in the US.

Hi, and welcome to another edition of Prep Rally. The Times begins a nine-part series previewing Southern California’s top high school football players Tuesday. In a final sneak peek, let’s look at defensive backs and kickers/punters.

Secondary power

Oregon commit Davon Benjamin of Oaks Christian returned three interceptions for touchdowns last season.

(Eric Sondheimer / Los Angeles Times)

The hardest projection this coming season involves which school has the best secondary. That’s how much depth and talent some teams have at defensive back.

Sierra Canyon has two USC commits, Madden Riordan and Brandon Lockhart, plus an LSU commit, Havon Finney Jr., and a terrific junior safety, Myles Baker.

Gardena Serra is loaded with Duvay Williams, Marcellous Ryan, Wesley Arce and Devohn Moutra Jr. Mater Dei has Cory Lavender, Aaryn Washington and Ace Leutele. St. John Bosco counters with USC commit Josh Holland, standout junior safety Isala Wiley-Ava and improving junior cornerback Dorian Franklin.

Murrieta Valley has the Johnson brothers, Derrick Johnson Jr., an Oklahoma commit, and junior Darius Johnson. Long Beach Poly has juniors Julius Johnson and Donte Wright Jr. Rancho Cucamonga has cornerbacks Joshua Mensah and Justin Lewis, both committed to UCLA.

There’s top defensive backs throughout the region, from Jeron Jones of Mission Viejo to Davon Benjamin of Oaks Christian. Sophomore Jalen Flowers of Palos Verdes is coming off an exceptional freshman season and keeps getting better and better. Sophomore Jordan Slye Jr. of Salesian is someone to keep your eye on because of his athleticism and size. Sophomore Micah Hannah of Simi Valley already has proven himself as a freshman.

They can kick

San Pedro junior kicker Dylan Moreno was seven of nine on field goals last season.

(Eric Sondheimer / Los Angeles Times)

The band of kickers and punters keeps getting better aided by an army of private coaches.

Aiden Migirdichian of Orange Lutheran was nine of nine on field goals last season. Jacob Kreinberg of Loyola could be doing double duty after making 11 field goals.

Dylan Moreno of San Pedro is headed for All-City honors for his accuracy. Oscar Reyes Ramirez of Hemet returns after making 15 field goals as a junior. Jackson Shevin of Mira Costa is headed toward averaging better than 40 yards on punts. Washington commit CJ Wallace of St. John Bosco reaches his senior year ready for a big season.

Sophomore Jerry Shifman has left Agoura for Mater Dei and junior Carter Sobel has left Chaminade for Sierra Canyon. Each has shown strong kicking skills. Gabriel Goroyan of Westlake is a junior who figures to receive lots of kicking opportunities. Carter Montgomery of Claremont holds a school-record 48-yard field goal.

Top 25 preseason rankings

Mater Dei coach Raul Lara receives Division 1 championship plaque after win over St. John Bosco last season.

(Craig Weston)

Drum roll, please. The Times’ top 25 preseason football rankings are out, and Mater Dei starts out as the No. 1 team.

The Monarchs went unbeaten last season and there’s no reason they can’t go unbeaten again. Their receiving group is exceptional but there are top players throughout positions.

Here’s a look at the top 25 rankings.

Practice notes

Los Alamitos and Inglewood will open the football season on Friday night at Inglewood in an official game a week ahead of most schools. Los Alamitos has a game scheduled in Hawaii on Aug. 22, so it gets to have a double zero week game. Simi Valley is playing Spanish Springs at Simi Valley. Santa Monica is traveling to Honolulu to play Kaimuki on Saturday.

Long Beach Millikan is also opening on Friday in Nevada against Foothill in Henderson. Most schools will be playing scrimmages this week, such as Corona Centennial hosting Sierra Canyon on Thursday night. Scrimmages are considered practices, so players who won’t be eligible because of a sit-out transfer period are allowed to play.

The Moore League, led by Millikan and Long Beach Poly, held its first media preview session. Here’s a report.

The Meeker twins, quarterback Liam (left) and receiver Luke, are key players for Mira Costa.

(Eric Sondheimer / Los Angeles Times)

Mira Costa is turning to twins Liam and Luke Meeker, surfer and football dudes. Here’s a report.

The Tri County League held a media day in Ventura. Here’s a report.

The Marmonte League held its media day at Oaks Christian. Here’s a report.

Narbonne is engaged in another rebuilding year after an exodus of players because the team is banned from the playoffs for the next three years. Here’s a report.

Dymally has canceled its scheduled season opener against Palisades on Aug. 22 for lack of players.

Orange Lutheran quarterback Makena Cook throws a pass.

(Steve Galluzzo For The Times)

The flag football season has begun with new rules and new pressure on quarterbacks to adapt to having defensive players only one yard away from the line of scrimmage to start a play instead of seven yards.

Here’s The Times’ flag football preview.

Panorama has some key players returning and could be a factor in the City Section. Here’s a report.

Anthony Barr retires

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Anthony Barr (51) warms up in 2022.

(Ashley Landis/AP)

Former Loyola High, UCLA and NFL linebacker Anthony Barr, 33, has retired from football.

His coach at Loyola in 2009, Jeff Kearin, said, “He was real pleasure to coach. High level and high profile and he knew his hard work would get him to where he wanted to be. Never felt a need to thump his own chest or transfer three times to feed his own ego. And believe me, the sharks were swimming around. His mom and family were well grounded. Different time. And different kind of guy.”

Here’s a look at Barr in a story from 2009 when he was a star running back.

Notes . . .

Transfers in California during the 2024-25 school year totaled 17,041, according to CIF stats. That’s down from the record 17,068 the previous school year. . . .

The CIF announced a record number of students — more than 820,000 — participated in high school sports during the last school year in California. . . .

Brock Livingston, Crespi’s long-time lacrosse coach, has resigned to move back east to take care of his family. . . .

Max Luchs is the new boys lacrosse coach at Chaminade. . . .

Mater Dei and Santa Margarita have won the Southern Section Commissioner’s Cup for boys and girls sports as the top athletic programs for 2024-25. . . .

Pitcher Grayson Martin of Temecula Valley has committed to Cal Baptist. . . .

The girls volleyball season begins this weekend with teams traveling to Hawaii for the Ann King Invitational. Top teams entered include Mira Costa, Sierra Canyon, Redondo Union, JSerra, Los Alamitos, Huntington Beach and Harvard-Westlake. . . .

Golfer Hill Wang from La Serna has committed to Pepperdine. . . .

Standout girls soccer and flag football quarterback Makena Cook of Orange Lutheran has committed to Georgia. . . .

Pitcher Juju Diaz-Jones from Sherman Oaks Notre Dame has committed to Cal. . . .

Junior pitcher Roy Kim from Great Oak has committed to Stanford. . . .

Softball pitcher Liliana Escobar of JSerra has committed to Florida. . . .

Outfielder Ethan Price of Harvard-Westlake has committed to Santa Clara. . . .

Cory Skinner is the new softball coach at Chaminade. . . .

Standout junior guard Grayson Coleman is leaving Calabasas for Milken. His father, Ryan, will take over the Milken program after being head coach for many years at Shalhevet. . . .

Incoming Harvard-Westlake freshman baseball players Louis Lappe and Mateo Mier have made the U.S. 15U national baseball team. Also selected was Mira Costa sophomore Kekoa Delatori. Lappe was the hero on El Segundo’s championship Little League team in 2023. They will compete at the U-15 Pan American Championship in Mexico Sept. 13-18. . . .

Former Mira Costa and UCLA third baseman Kyle Karros made his major league debut for the Colorado Rockies on Friday and got a single and RBI in his first at-bat.

From the archives: Giancarlo Stanton

Sherman Oaks Notre Dame baseball coach Tom Dill with his former pupil, Giancarlo Stanton.

(Eric Sondheimer / Los Angeles Times)

Former Sherman Oaks Notre Dame standout Giancarlo Stanton continues to move forward in his pro baseball career with the New York Yankees. Last week he hit his 438th career home run, tying him for 46th on the all-time list.

Stanton will go down as one of the three greatest athletes in Southern California high school history, having been All-CIF in football, basketball and baseball.

Here’s a story from 2016 on Stanton talking about being a multi-sport athlete in high school.

Here’s a story from 2007 when Stanton’s first name was Mike and his skills were becoming known.

Recommendations

From FIBA basketball, a story that shows former Harvard-Westlake guard Robert Hinton playing for Taiwan.

From Gpb.org, a story on a high school in Georgia opening its $62 million stadium.

From Newstribune.com, a story on a high school football player in Tacoma who got too big to be a UFC fighter.

Tweets you might have missed

Until next time….

Have a question, comment or something you’d like to see in a future Prep Rally newsletter? Email me at [email protected], and follow me on Twitter at @latsondheimer.

Did you get this newsletter forwarded to you? To sign up and get it in your inbox, click here.

Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford debuts for Barca as Lamine Yamal scores twice in 5-0 win against Como.

Reigning Spanish champions Barcelona completed their pre-season preparations by thrashing Italian side Como 5-0 in a game which signalled a thawing of relations with goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen.

Barca also gave Marcus Rashford a substitute’s appearance on Sunday, two weeks after the England forward joined on loan from Manchester United.

Double strikes from Fermin Lopez and Lamine Yamal and a first-half goal from Brazilian Raphinha completed the rout in the Joan Gamper Trophy.

With the game played at the Johan Cruyff Stadium within the team’s training complex, while Barcelona wait for the heavily delayed modernisation of the Camp Nou to be completed, Hansi Flick’s team showed fluency as they prepare to begin their Liga title defence away to Mallorca on Saturday.

Before kickoff on Sunday, Ter Stegen gave the traditional captain’s speech from the pitch, just days after his dispute with the club over the handling of his back injury broke to the surface.

“I think it was important to resolve the issue between the club and me, and now it’s time to look forward,” said the 33-year-old German goalkeeper, two days after having his captaincy restored.

“We’re going to fight again for all the trophies and we hope that with your help we can win all the titles possible,” Ter Stegen told the fans.

Rashford saw mixed fortunes, providing the cross for Raphinha to score but also blowing the chance to tap into an empty net.

Como, who are managed by former Barcelona and Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas, had seen their previous match – at Real Betis – descend into violence.

The Italians are touring Spain as part of their warm-up for the new season, but the friendly on Wednesday with former Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini’s Betis saw two players sent off as punches were exchanged during a brawl. Como eventually won the match 3-2.

Jack Grealish agrees to Everton loan, Chelsea and RB Leipzig in talks over swapping Xavi Simons for Christopher Nkunku, and Nicolas Jackson favours Newcastle move.

England winger Jack Grealish, 29, has agreed to join Everton on loan from Manchester City. (Teamtalk), external

Chelsea are in talks with RB Leipzig over a potential swap deal for Netherlands midfielder Xavi Simons, 22, that could mean France forward Christopher Nkunku, 27, returning to the German club. (Guardian), external

Nicolas Jackson favours a move to Newcastle United should the Senegal striker, 24, leave Chelsea during the summer transfer window. (Telegraph – subscription required), external

Newcastle will wait to resolve the future of Sweden striker Alexander Isak, 25, before deciding whether to move for Chelsea striker Jackson. (PA news agency), external

Newcastle have made a bid for Brentford’s Yoane Wissa but Liverpool are monitoring the situation as they see the DR Congo forward, 28, as an alternative if they fail to sign Isak. (Caught Offside), external

France forward Randal Kolo Muani, 26, would prefer to join Juventus than Newcastle after spending the second half of last season on loan with the Italian club from Paris St-Germain. (Teamtalk), external

Sunderland have enquired about signing 26-year-old English defender Lloyd Kelly, who has just joined Juventus on an obligation-to-buy move after an initial loan from Newcastle. (Gazzetta dello Sport – in Italian), external

AC Milan are in talks over signing Denmark striker Rasmus Hojlund, 22, but they want a loan with a buy option whereas Manchester United would prefer a permanent sale. (Sky Sports), external

After signing Slovenia striker Benjamin Sesko, Manchester United have shifted focus to offloading England winger Jadon Sancho, 25, Argentina winger Alejandro Garnacho, 21, and Brazil forward Antony, 25. (Standard), external

Manchester United are considering signing free agent Dominic Calvert-Lewin after the former England striker, 28, left Everton at the end of last season. (Caught Offside), external

Nottingham Forest have made an offer for Monaco’s 21-year-old French midfielder Soungoutou Magassa. (L’Equipe – in French), external

Kostas Tsimikas is edging nearer to leaving Liverpool after being left out of their Community Shield squad, with Nottingham Forest having been interested in the 29-year-old Greece left-back. (Echo), external

Besiktas and Fenerbahce might make a move for Marseille’s Jonathan Rowe, while Rennes and Atalanta have also been linked with the 22-year-old English winger. (L’Equipe – in French), external

Jamaica forward Michail Antonio, 35, says he is talking to clubs in England and abroad after leaving West Ham at the end of last season. (Talksport), external

Enzo Fernandez will not leave Chelsea this summer despite reports in Spain linking the Argentina midfielder, 24, with a move to Paris St-Germain. (Fabrizio Romano), external

Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr have reached an agreement with France winger Kingsley Coman, 29, over a move from Bayern Munich. (Bild – in German), external

Mali midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure, 32, has joined newly promoted Saudi club Neom as a free agent after leaving Everton. (L’Equipe – in French), external

FA Cup winners Crystal Palace upset Premier League champions Liverpool in English season opening Community Shield.

Crystal Palace twice came from behind to stun a new-look Liverpool and win the FA Community Shield for the first time on penalties after a 2-2 draw at Wembley.

New signings Hugo Ekitike and Jeremie Frimpong scored for the Premier League champions, but Palace responded through Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr before winning an error-strewn shootout 3-2 on Sunday.

Mohamed Salah blazed over from the spot, while Alexis Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott were denied by an inspired Dean Henderson as Palace built on winning their first ever major trophy by beating Manchester City in May’s FA Cup final.

The traditional curtain-raiser to the English football season was given extra significance after a summer marked by tragedy for Liverpool.

Forward Diogo Jota was killed in a car accident alongside his brother Andre Silva.

Reds legend Ian Rush and Palace chairman Steve Parish laid wreaths on the side of the pitch before kickoff, while the Liverpool end was awash with banners and flags paying tribute to the Portuguese international.

A minute’s silence, however, had to be cut short due to disturbances in the crowd.

Jota’s death has dampened the excitement over Liverpool’s transfer spending spree to build on a squad that romped to a record-equalling 20th league title last season.

All four of their new signings at a cost of 260 million pounds ($350m) – Ekitike, Frimpong, Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez – started.

Ekitike’s role this season could depend on whether Liverpool are successful in their pursuit of Newcastle striker Alexander Isak.

But the Frenchman – signed from Eintracht Frankfurt last month for an initial 69 million pounds ($93m) – made his case to be Liverpool manager Arne Slot’s preferred number nine, no harm at all.

Wirtz also bagged his first assist for the Reds when Ekitike spun onto the German’s pass and fired into the far corner in just the fourth minute.

Palace were making their first-ever appearance in the fixture, but the Eagles again showed their ability to match one of the Premier League’s giants over 90 minutes.

Mateta missed a glorious chance to level when he failed to beat Alisson Becker one-on-one.

But from the rebound Sarr charged into the box and was tripped by an out-of-sorts Virgil van Dijk.

Mateta coolly sent Alisson the wrong way from the penalty spot to equalise.

Liverpool’s players were sporting a “Forever 20” emblem, referencing Jota’s now-retired shirt number, that they will wear all season.

The Liverpool fans had risen to chant Jota’s name as the game entered the 20th minute when their side retook the lead.

Frimpong’s chipped cross caught out Henderson and flew into the far corner.

Ekitike wasted a great chance for his second early in the second half from another Wirtz pass, as this time he fired over.

However, Slot’s new-look side are still to find the right balance between attack and defence, as has been evidenced during pre-season.

Palace were a constant threat with balls in behind the Reds defence and levelled again 13 minutes from time.

Sarr sped onto Adam Wharton’s through ball and calmly slotted past Alisson for his fourth goal in seven games against Liverpool.

Liverpool also survived a VAR review for a penalty against Mac Allister for handball before the match went to a shootout without extra time.

Youngster Justin Devenny was the unlikely hero as he blasted the winning spot kick high past Alisson, showing Salah, Mac Allister and Elliott how it is done.

The Times’ preseason top 25 high school football rankings:

1. MATER DEI: It’s very possible the Monarchs can go unbeaten again with their exceptional receiver group, strong lines and top two-way player Tomuhini Topui, a USC commit.

2. ST. JOHN BOSCO: Experience on defense and improving sophomore QB Koa Malau’ulu will be key for the Braves to break through and finish on top.



3. ORANGE LUTHERAN: Strong offensive and defensive lines will help Lancers overcome inexperience at quarterback.


4. SIERRA CANYON: Trailblazers’ defense will be the best in Southern California, led by impressive depth on the line and in the secondary.



5. CORONA CENTENNIAL: Coach Matt Logan has scheduled three straight Trinity League opponents in attempt to prepare team for Division 1 playoffs.



6. MISSION VIEJO: QB Luke Fahey, an Ohio State commit, is the real deal and will have lots of weapons to help the Diablos succeed.



7. SANTA MARGARITA: With good coaches, improved line play and a healthy Trent Mosley, the Eagles are capable of making a big jump.


8. GARDENA SERRA: It’s a yearly challenge for the Cavaliers to stay healthy enough for their immense talent to make it through a 14-game schedule.



9. SERVITE: The offensive line is outstanding, which will help the Friars stay competitive in the tough Trinity League.



10. NEWBURY PARK: QB Brady Smigiel must gain chemistry with a new group of receivers, but the talent is there for the Panthers to have another big season.


11. CATHEDRAL: The Phantoms are ready to rise to prominence behind quarterback Jaden Jefferson.


12. JSERRA: New quarterback Koa Smith-Mayall is better than people think, and there’s young players ready to step forward.


13. VISTA MURRIETA: Coach Casey Candaele trusts quarterback Bryson Beavers, an Oregon commit.


14. YORBA LINDA: Coach Jeff Bailey keeps being underrated, but the Mustangs keep producing big wins.


15. EDISON: Junior quarterback Sam Thomson received lots of playoff experience during state championship run.



16. SAN JUAN HILLS: A strong summer performance showed the skill position players are ready, led by quarterback Timmy Herr.


17. OAKS CHRISTIAN: There’s talent throughout the lineup, including speedy running back Deshonne Redeaux, who will try to stay healthy.


18. INGLEWOOD: After reaching Division 1 playoffs last season, Sentinels are still the favorite to win the tough Bay League.

19. CHAPARRAL: Quarterback Dane Weber continues to progress, making his team very dangerous.



20. CORONA DEL MAR: The Sea Kings have returnees at key positions, making them a possible Bravo League title contender.

21. DAMIEN: Quarterback Isaiah Arriaza passed for nearly 3,000 yards as a junior, allowing Spartans to build around him.


22. PALOS VERDES: Defending state champions have junior QB Ryan Rakowski, CB Jalen Flowers and DB Cameron Hughes for challenging schedule.


23. DOWNEY: Quarterback Oscar Rios, an Arizona commit, can pass, run and lead.


24. SHERMAN OAKS NOTRE DAME: Transfer QB Wyatt Brown will combine with WR Luc Weaver to provide the Knights with offensive explosiveness.


25. OXNARD PACIFICA: Juniors Isaiah Phelps and Alijah Royster showed as sophomores they’re ready to become stars.


Others to watch: Los Alamitos, Long Beach Poly, Leuzinger, Long Beach Millikan, Tustin, Valencia, San Clemente.

Uruguay striker Darwin Nunez completes $62m move from Premier League champions Liverpool to Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal.

The Saudi Arabian soccer league has secured its latest marquee signing after Darwin Nunez completed the move from Liverpool to Al Hilal on Saturday.

The Uruguay international cost a reported 46.3 million pounds ($62m) and has signed a three-year contract.

Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia’s most successful team, has been searching for another star signing after releasing Brazil great Neymar in January.

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes rejected a move before the Club World Cup in June, and there was also reported interest in former Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.

Nunez leaves Liverpool after a mixed time in the Premier League, where he produced some spectacular moments but could not establish himself as the Merseyside club’s first-choice centre forward. He scored 40 goals in 143 games and won the Premier League title last season.

But he made only one league start from the turn of the year and scored just seven goals in 47 total appearances last term.

In a summer when Liverpool has reinforced its attack with the signings of Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz, along with interest in Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, Nunez’s position had been in doubt.

He follows a slew of players who have left Europe’s top leagues for Saudi Arabia since Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr in 2022.

Karim Benzema, Sadio Mane and Riyad Mahrez are some of the high-profile names to make the switch as Saudi Arabia has mounted an ambitious recruitment drive to establish itself as a major player in global soccer.

Al Hilal, which produced one of the biggest upsets at the Club World Cup by eliminating Manchester City, already has a host of marquee players, including Kalidou Koulibaly, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, Joao Cancelo and Aleksandar Mitrovic.

It is also coached by two-time Champions League runner-up Simone Inzaghi.

It has won a record 19 Saudi league titles as well as four Asian championships, but was beaten to the title by Al-Ittihad last season.

Former Palestinian international player Suleiman Al-Obeid was killed by an Israeli attack on aid seekers in Gaza on Wednesday.

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has criticised the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA)’s tribute to the late Suleiman Al-Obeid, known as the “Palestinian Pele,” after European football’s governing body failed to reference the circumstances surrounding his death this week.

The Palestine Football Association said that Al-Obeid, 41, was killed by an Israeli attack on civilians waiting for humanitarian aid in the southern Gaza Strip on Wednesday.

In a brief post on the social media platform X, UEFA called the former national team member “a talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times”.

Salah responded: “Can you tell us how he died, where, and why?”

Can you tell us how he died, where, and why? https://t.co/W7HCyVVtBE

— Mohamed Salah (@MoSalah) August 9, 2025

UEFA was not immediately available to comment when contacted by the Reuters news agency.

One of the Premier League’s biggest stars, the 33-year-old Egyptian, Salah, has previously advocated for humanitarian aid to be allowed into Gaza during the nearly two-year-long war.

The United Nations says that more than 1,000 people have been killed near aid distribution sites and aid convoys in Gaza since the launch of the GHF, a United States- and Israel-backed aid distribution system, in late May.

The new Premier League season kicks off on Friday, August 15, when champions Liverpool entertain Bournemouth.

Arne Slot’s Reds will be favourites to lift the trophy once more, but can Arsenal improve on three consecutive second-placed finishes? Manchester City are expected to bounce back from an uncharacteristically quiet season under Pep Guardiola, while Chelsea are the FIFA Club World Cup (CWC) champions.

Al Jazeera Sport takes a look at the likely candidates.

Liverpool

Slot’s side stormed to a record-equalling 20th Premier League title last season. The Reds finished 10 points clear of Arsenal – and that after taking their foot off the gas in a winless four-game run to finish.

Florian Wirtz is the big name summer arrival from Bayer Leverkusen and comes with a hefty price tag of $156m. The German midfielder follows French forward Hugo Ekitike and Dutch wide man Jeremie Frimpong through the Anfield gates.

The latter will be utilised both in covering for Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has joined Real Madrid, and Mohamed Salah, who will depart midseason to represent Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Securing the ongoing services of both Salah and Virgil van Dijk, however, was undoubtedly the biggest piece of business the Reds needed.

Egyptian forward Salah was heavily linked with the Saudi Pro League and, having topped the goalscoring charts against last season with 29 goals, would have been a huge loss.

Dutch defender and Liverpool captain van Dijk has been the rock upon which the Reds’ fortunes have been built since his arrival from Southampton in 2018.

The pursuit of Aleksander Isak from Newcastle United has been ongoing for some time. Slot has teased the Reds may return with a second bid, and if one position has been in question, it is an out-and-out striker – Isak’s 23 goals last season proved he is one of the hottest talents in that role.

“Every team in the Premier League is spending money,” Slot said in the run-up to the new campaign. “So if we are only favourites because we’ve spent a bit, I would see that as weird because we’ve lost a lot as well. But that we are favourites because we won it last season and we played so well, that’s clear.”

The tragic death of Diogo Jota, in a car crash in Spain in July, supersedes all concerns of success. Coming to terms with his loss will be painful in training and in matches, with his absence felt in ways far beyond the gap the Portuguese forward leaves in the starting XI each week.

Arsenal

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have been the form team of the last three seasons in the Premier League, but three second-place finishes in a row are starting to burn deeply in north London.

Substantial reinforcements have been sought to help the Gunners end their 22-season wait to lift the Premier League title once again.

Viktor Gyokeres is the headline news, given Arteta made little secret of his frustration with the club’s lack of striking options last season.

The signing of the Swedish striker from Sporting Lisbon for 63 million pounds ($85m) will be seen as the best chance to close the gap on Liverpool.

Noni Madueke’s capture from Chelsea, meantime, divided Arsenal fans. The England international does, however, bring further depth and additional quality to a forward line, whose top scorer last season was Kai Havertz with a paltry nine goals.

The arrival in midfield from Real Sociedad of Martin Zubimendi, a Euro 2024 winner with Spain, can only solidify the already meticulously manufactured system Arteta has arranged.

Chelsea

Chelsea will surely hit the ground running following their stunning FIFA Club World Cup success against European champions Paris Saint-Germain last month.

Enzo Maresca’s side stormed to a 3-0 win against the Parisians, who swept through the UEFA Champions League – culminating in their own 5-0 demolition of Inter Milan – to complete the treble.

Joao Pedro’s three goals across the semifinal and final at the CWC have already gone a long way towards validating his 60-million-pound ($80.7m) signing from Brighton before the tournament. That move came on top of the capture of fellow strikers, Liam Delap from Ipswich and Estevao from Palmeiras.

Estevao scored against the west London club in his last game with his Brazilian outfit during the quarterfinals of the CWC.

Disjointed has long been a word associated with Chelsea on and off the pitch, certainly since their last Premier League title win in 2017.

Whether Maresca can continue to tie the team together following the CWC triumph, and whether that tournament will test the legs of the Blues players later in the season, could well be deciding factors in Chelsea’s title challenge.

Manchester City

Will Pep Guardiola’s team bounce back to the form that saw them claim a record fourth consecutive Premier League title only a season ago? Or will the light blues of Manchester continue to feel the heavy burden of a side that conquered all before them, only to seemingly lose control of their own success last season?

The injury to Ballon d’Or holder Rodri undoubtedly hit City hard last term, and the news that he will miss the start of the new campaign will also come as a huge concern to Guardiola.

For a team that won an unprecedented five trophies in 2023, and the record-setting Premier League title the following year, to fall so far last season came as a huge shock to all, not least their manager.

Indeed, many believed last season may well have been Guardiola’s final term. Even with a two-year contract extension signed midway through the last campaign, a slow start to this season will once again cast doubt where once it seemed unthinkable.

The departure of Kevin De Bruyne marks a passing of the guard, and that absence will now be doubly felt in the early stages with the unavailability of Rodri.

Their nine league losses last season were more than their two previous seasons combined and resulted in a first finish outside the top two since 2016-2017. The Blues also crashed out of the Champions League and League Cup early, and their FA Cup final defeat by Crystal Palace meant no silverware for the first time in eight years.

Midfielder Tijjani Reijnders, defender Rayan Ait-Nouri, winger Rayan Cherki and goalkeeper James Trafford have all been recruited in the close season.

The summer spree pushed City’s spending for 2025 past the 300-million-pounds ($403.5m) mark, following the arrivals of Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, Nico Gonzalez and Vitor Reis in the January window.

“I’m pretty sure it’ll be good, but it won’t be a red carpet season,” Guardiola said.

“The expectation at the beginning of the season is always, let’s go and try to do our best, win the first games, get confidence and move forward. We want to try and do better than last season, especially with consistency.”

A cloud that continues to hang over the club, however, is that they still face 115 charges of breaking Premier League financial regulations.

City, who have always denied any wrongdoing, were charged with the alleged breaches in February 2023. A verdict during the October international break.

Manchester United and the rest

United have defied their financial woes to reinvent their front three with Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo signed earlier in the window, and the big-money move for Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig.

The Red Devils’ captain Bruno Fernandes hit out at a “lazy” preseason performance following the 2-2 preseason draw with Everton, and also called for more reinforcements.

One of the longest serving players at the club, England international Luke Shaw, also criticised a “toxic” dressing room culture that manager Ruben Amorim was trying to change.

Just like Guardiola, his opposite number across the Manchester divide, how long the reversal in fortunes takes is likely to take will define how much longer Amorim has at the helm.

A slow start may mean his tenure barely lasts a year having replaced Eric ten Hag as manager last November.

Newcastle United narrowly missed out on a top-four spot, and with it Champions League qualification, last season, having been seen as early-season title contenders.

The doubts surrounding their star name, Isak, cast huge doubts heading into the new season for Eddie Howe’s side. Should the Swede depart, and with their own top target, Sesko, moving to Old Trafford, the Geordies look the most under threat of falling short of last season’s progress.

Aston Villa were another side that have threatened to break into the Premier League’s elite, having secured Champions League football two years ago, which resulted in a run to the quarterfinals last year.

Ivory Coast forward Evann Guessand has been signed from French club Nice for a reported fee of at least 30 million euros ($35m). The 24-year-old winger scored 13 goals last season.

If the transfer merry-go-round continues, however, then Villa striker Ollie Watkins could be the next on the move, with all of last season’s top four having been linked with a move for the England international at some stage.

Indeed, Isak’s future at Newcastle could well be the trigger for whether Watkins remains at Villa Park when the transfer window shuts on September 1.

The Spanish midfielder missed the majority of last season due to injury and will miss the start of the new campaign.

Midfielder Rodri is recovering from a “big injury” sustained during the Club World Cup, likely limiting the Ballon d’Or winner’s playing time in the early stages of the new Premier League season, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says.

Guardiola did not disclose the details of the injury but said the 29-year-old Spain international picked up the problem during City’s 4-3 loss against the Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal in the round of 16 of the Club World Cup in July.

British media reported Rodri has suffered a groin injury.

Rodri only made his return to competitive action in May after eight months out of action due to a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.

“Rodri is getting better, but he had a big injury in the last game against Al Hilal,” Guardiola told reporters on Friday before Saturday’s friendly match against the Italian side Palermo.

“He has trained better in the last few days. Hopefully after the international break [in September], he will be really fit.

“Hopefully in these [first three Premier League] games, he can play some minutes, but what is important is that he doesn’t have pain because we don’t want Rodri coming back injured. We will try desperately to avoid that.

“He has been training the last two sessions with us, and that’s good.”

City, who finished third last season, begin their Premier League campaign away against Wolverhampton Wanderers on August 16.

The Slovenia striker was also a target for Newcastle United, having scored 39 times in two years for RP Leipzig.

Manchester United have signed Slovenia striker Benjamin Sesko from Germany’s RB Leipzig on a contract until 2030, the Premier League club have announced.

The transfer fee is 76.5 million euros ($89m) with 8.5 million euros ($9.9m) in bonuses.

The 22-year-old, who joined Leipzig from the Austrian club RB Salzburg in 2023, scored 39 goals in 87 appearances across all competitions for the German side.

“The history of Manchester United is obviously very special, but what really excites me is the future,” Sesko said upon completing the deal on Saturday.

“When we discussed the project, it was clear that everything is in place for this team to continue to grow and compete for the biggest trophies again soon.

“From the moment that I arrived, I could feel the positive energy and family environment that the club has created. It is clearly the perfect place to reach my maximum level and fulfil all of my ambitions.

“I cannot wait to start learning from [manager] Ruben [Amorim] and connecting with my teammates to achieve the success that we all know we are capable of together.”

Manchester United, who finished 15th in the Premier League last season, have also signed forwards Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo for the new campaign, which starts at home against Arsenal on August 17.

It was only ever United. pic.twitter.com/JpzKueYSIc

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 9, 2025

Sesko had also been a target for Newcastle United, who are actively seeking replacements for wantaway striker Alexander Isak.

“Benjamin possesses a rare combination of electrifying pace and the ability to physically dominate defenders, making him one of the most exceptional young talents in world football,” Jason Wilcox, Man Utd’s director of football, said in the club’s announcement.

“We have followed Benjamin’s career closely; all of our data analysis and research concluded that he has the required qualities and personality to thrive at Manchester United.

“Working under the guidance of Ruben and our excellent performance team, Benjamin is joining the perfect environment to support him to reach his world-class potential.

“The desire that all of our new signings have shown to join the club this summer highlights the appeal and stature of Manchester United, as we continue to build and develop a team capable of challenging for the biggest honours.”

Current United strikers Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee scored just 18 goals between them in all competitions last term as United fell to a club-record 18 losses in the Premier League era and its lowest points total of 42.

Only four teams scored fewer goals than United in the top flight last term — including the three relegated clubs – as the 20-time English champion recorded its lowest finish in the modern era when it placed 15th, just three places above the relegation zone.

Sesko has been compared to former Paris Saint-Germain and United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic because of his height – both are 1.95 meters (6 feet, 5 inches) tall – and flashes of technical skill.

Of his goals, the striker has six goals in 28 Champions League games for Leipzig and his previous club Salzburg. He has also tallied 16 goals in 41 games for Slovenia.

Paris St-Germain expect offers for Gianluigi Donnarumma, Newcastle are set to make improved bid for Yoane Wissa and open talks over move for Randal Kolo Muani.

Paris St-Germain expect offers from Chelsea, Manchester United or Inter Milan for Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, 26, who has become surplus to requirements at the French club. (ESPN), external

Newcastle are set to make an improved bid of £30m for Brentford’s 28-year-old DR Congo forward Yoane Wissa. (Times – subscription required), external

Newcastle have opened talks with PSG over a deal for 26-year-old France striker Randal Kolo Muani. (Florian Plettenberg), external

The Magpies are also considering a move for Porto and Spain striker Samu Aghehowa, 21, to reinforce their attack. (Athletic – subscription required), external

Senegal forward Nicolas Jackson, 24, would prefer to stay in the Premier League if he leaves Chelsea this summer with Newcastle a possible destination. (Sun), external

Jackson would like to explore a transfer away from Chelsea this month, with AC Milan and Juventus also interested in signing him. (Mail), external

Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, 28, is top of Atalanta’s transfer list and the Serie A side could offer up to 40m euros (£29.7m) for the Frenchman next week. (Football Italia), external

Atalanta and Nigeria forward Ademola Lookman, 27, is determined to move to Inter Milan, despite being offered to Premier League clubs. (Gazzetta dello Sport – in Italian), external

Manchester United will look to sign a defensive midfielder and a goalkeeper now they have finalised their pursuit of Slovenia striker Benjamin Sesko, 22, from RB Leipzig. (Telegraph – subscription required) , external

Southampton are holding out for at least £50m for their England Under-21 winger Tyler Dibling, 19, with Everton hoping to do a deal. (Liverpool Echo), external

French side Lille are targeting a loan move for Spurs’ Czech goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky. The 22-year-old is on their radar should current first-choice stopper, Frenchman Lucas Chevalier, 23, join PSG. (L’Equipe – in French), external

Brentford are interested in signing Bournemouth winger Dango Ouattara. The 23-year-old Burkina Faso international made 32 Premier League appearances for the Cherries last season. (Sky Sports), external

Newly promoted Leeds United are interested in 20-year-old Brighton midfielder Facundo Buonanotte. The Argentina international is also wanted by Borussia Dortmund. (Yorkshire Evening Post), external

Al-Nassr have made an offer to Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman, 29, but the France international has yet to make a decision over the move as the German club await a bid. (Sky Sport Germany), external

Beitar Jerusalem fans sparked chaos in Riga, hurling pyrotechnics and setting off flares during their loss to Riga FC, yet faced no repercussions.
Al Jazeera’s Nils Adler explores why Israeli clubs like Beitar continue to play in Europe despite fans chanting genocidal slogans and glorifying Palestinian hate.