Luciano Spalletti was confirmed as the new Juventus head coach Thursday on a deal that runs until...

<p>Luciano Spalletti was confirmed as the new Juventus head coach Thursday on a deal that runs until the end of the season.</p><p>The contract includes an option to extend if Juve qualify for the Champions League, according to <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1983451641258135750">soccer insider Fabrizio Romano</a>.</p><p>Former Salernitana boss Giovanni Martusciello, who previously worked at Juventus under Maurizio Sarri, joins Spalletti in Turin as a member of the coaching team, <a href="https://gianlucadimarzio.com/martusciello-spalletti-juventus-news-30-ottobre-2025/">Sky Sport Italia's Gianluca Di Marzio</a> reports.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Igor Tudor was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3379701" href="https://thescore.com/news/3379701">sacked</a> as head coach Monday with the team on an eight-game winless run, compounded by consecutive away defeats to Como, Real Madrid, and Lazio. Juve are 25th out of 36 teams in the opening phase of the Champions League.</p><p>Juventus beat Udinese 3-1 at Allianz Stadium on Wednesday. Massimo Brambilla, who oversees the club's Next Gen team, served as interim coach for the match. The result improved Juve's Serie A record to 15 points from nine matches, six points adrift of league-leading Napoli.</p><p>Juventus are the 10th club of Spalletti's managerial career. His lengthy resume includes two separate stints with both Udinese and Roma and over four years with Zenit St. Petersburg in Russia. He won the Coppa Italia twice in his first spell with Roma and won four trophies with Zenit, but guiding Napoli to the 2022-23 Serie A title is widely considered his finest moment in the dugout.</p><p>The 66-year-old was dismissed as Italy coach in June amid a faltering World Cup qualification campaign, though he signed off with a 2-0 win over Moldova. He was also in charge for the Azzurri's round-of-16 elimination at Euro 2024. Since Spalletti departed the role, his successor, Gennaro Gattuso, has revived Italy's hopes of World Cup qualification by following the Moldova match with four more wins.</p><p>"Juventus are a great club with a great history," Spalletti said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Serie-A/28-10-2025/spalletti-presentazione-spot-totti-live_amp.shtml">La Gazzetta dello Sport</a>. "Everyone would gladly coach Juventus."</p>

Luciano Spalletti, an Italian football coach, is seen during the press conference to present the new Amaro Montenegro commercial starring the two icons of Italian football, Francesco Totti and Luciano Spalletti, at the Anteo Palazzo del Cinema in Milan, Italy, on October 28, 2025.

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Juventus appoint veteran coach Spalletti as Tudor's successor

Australia and England lock horns once again starting Nov. 21. The latest Ashes series starts in P...

<p><em>Australia and England lock horns once again starting Nov. 21. The latest Ashes series starts in Perth before further Tests in Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney will determine which country has bragging rights in one of sports' greatest rivalries.</em></p><h3>Will Cummins be fit?</h3><p>Pat Cummins is likely to miss at least one Ashes Test due to a stress injury in his back. His expected absence will be a big loss for Australia, depriving the team of his incredible on-field leadership and the skills of one of the finest fast bowlers ever to grace the game. Cummins isn't a prolific batter, but he has a knack for eking out crucial runs near the end of the order. The 32-year-old heroically scored an unbeaten 44, including the winning runs, in one of the all-time great Ashes Tests at Edgbaston in 2023.</p><p>Steve Smith would presumably step up as captain in Cummins' absence. He's led the Aussies in the past and regularly guides the field when Cummins is bowling.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>As for filling the bowling void, Scott Boland appears to be in pole position to play in Perth. The 36-year-old seamer is fit and firing and became the 10th Australian to claim a Test hat-trick in July when the West Indies team was restricted to a paltry second-inning total of 27 runs in Jamaica. But there could be a late dash into the lineup for the uncapped Fergus O'Neill, who should be on the Australian selectors' radar after some tremendous displays on the domestic scene.</p><h3>Ollie's time might be up</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806114/cropped_GettyImages-2228081701.jpg?ts=1760807549" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806114/w220xh124_GettyImages-2228081701.jpg?ts=1760807549 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806114/w320xh180_GettyImages-2228081701.jpg?ts=1760807549 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806114/w640xh360_GettyImages-2228081701.jpg?ts=1760807549 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806114/w768xh432_GettyImages-2228081701.jpg?ts=1760807549 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806114/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2228081701.jpg?ts=1760807549 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Stu Forster / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>England's decision in September to oust Ollie Pope as vice-captain and appoint the supremely talented Harry Brook as Ben Stokes' second-in-command signaled the possibility of a shakeup to the batting order. Wicketkeeper Pope isn't spectacular at the crease, passing the half-century mark only twice in the summer series against India, and now his status as England's No. 3 batter is under threat from Jacob Bethell.</p><p>Bethell, 21, is better aligned to the optimistic and daring approach - commonly known as Bazball - preferred by head coach Brendon McCullum and Stokes. Currently auditioning in New Zealand for Pope's place with the white ball, Bethell didn't have his best performance in the opening outing of his trial. The left-hander logged just 15 runs before top-edging a steepler back to Kiwi bowler Matt Henry in Saturday's T20 international.</p><p>Even if Bethell smashes the ball around in Auckland during Thursday's third T20 and then impresses in the ODIs later in October, his selection over Pope would still represent a risk given his inexperience and how late in the day England might make this change.</p><h3>Aussies' top order slowly getting solved</h3><p>One of the biggest concerns about Australia is that its lineup doesn't boast the same consistency as it has in the lead-up to most Ashes series, especially compared to past victorious campaigns. There have notably been question marks over the top of the batting order, but the picture is gradually getting clearer.</p><p>Usman Khawaja appears to have a stronger hold on an opening spot over Sam Konstas despite both batters underwhelming during Australia's summer Tests in the Caribbean. And a hard-fought competition is brewing to find a partner for Khawaja, with Jake Weatherald, who's yet to represent Australia, using some of his recent performances to turn heads. While Marnus Labuschagne is a strong candidate to be the No. 3 batter after recording big numbers for Queensland, there are calls for him to be an opener with Khawaja.</p><h3>Sledging and other mind games</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806115/cropped_GettyImages-2231352665.jpg?ts=1760807763" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806115/w220xh124_GettyImages-2231352665.jpg?ts=1760807763 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806115/w320xh180_GettyImages-2231352665.jpg?ts=1760807763 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806115/w640xh360_GettyImages-2231352665.jpg?ts=1760807763 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806115/w768xh432_GettyImages-2231352665.jpg?ts=1760807763 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806115/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2231352665.jpg?ts=1760807763 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Philip Brown / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The rivalry between Australia and England can be both hotheaded and hilarious, and some of the old boys have already traded barbs in the media.</p><p>Former Aussie opener David Warner recently predicted that his country would win the series 4-0, suggesting that England's commitment to Bazball would contribute to its downfall. Stuart Broad retorted by claiming Australia has its "worst" team since 2010, which was the last time England won an Ashes series Down Under. However, his forthright assessment may have been partly fueled by his roguish dedication to the bad-guy role. In 2013, Broad's level of villainy in Australia prompted a Brisbane-based newspaper to refuse to print his name, instead referring to him only as "the 27-year-old medium pace bowler."</p><p>Although the mind games between former players will continue, the intensity will rise once the first Test begins. Not only will the current players be more visible in the media, but the brutal yet quick-witted sledging will begin out on the field. Some of the insults traded between fielders and batters are box office.</p>

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Ashes countdown: 4 storylines to watch ahead of Australia-England

Manchester United turned the knife on their struggling archrivals Sunday with a battling 2-1 win ...

<p>Manchester United turned the knife on their struggling archrivals Sunday with a battling 2-1 win at Liverpool.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/13942" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/13942">Harry Maguire</a> headed in the visitors' winning goal in the 84th minute after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/102362" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/102362">Cody Gakpo</a> gave Liverpool hopes of a comeback victory with his equalizer from close range.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/99561" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/99561">Bryan Mbeumo</a> shocked the hosts with a well-worked opening goal in just the second minute.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Liverpool have now lost in four straight matches for the first time since November 2014 under Brendan Rodgers. They've fallen to Crystal Palace, Galatasaray, Chelsea, and Manchester United over that miserable spell. Their latest setback is their first home defeat to United since 2016.</p><p>The result also marked the first time that Ruben Amorim has recorded back-to-back wins as Manchester United boss. The Portuguese coach's first match at the helm was in November 2024.</p><p>Liverpool weren't at their best but were frustrated at Anfield, breaching <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/165236" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/165236">Senne Lammens</a> in United's goal only once despite outshooting Amorim's side 19-12. Gakpo hit the woodwork three times through one curling effort, a deflected cross, and a powerful drive before he scored from a couple of yards. He then failed with an opportunity to level again in the 86th minute when he rose unmarked for a header and somehow sent it wide.</p><p>Gakpo wasn't the only player who endured a difficult outing. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/17673" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/17673">Mohamed Salah</a>, the reigning PFA Player of the Year after Liverpool won last season's Premier League title, was also largely ineffectual and is yet to complete a dribble in the Premier League this campaign.</p>

Liverpool's Mohamed Salah reacts after a missed opportunity during the Premier League match at Anfield, Liverpool. Picture date: Sunday October 19, 2025.

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Man United condemn Liverpool to 4th straight defeat

Nottingham Forest dismissed head coach Ange Postecoglou around 20 minutes after Saturday's 3-0 ho...

<p>Nottingham Forest dismissed head coach Ange Postecoglou around 20 minutes after Saturday's 3-0 home defeat to Chelsea ended.</p><p>Postecoglou lasted just 39 days at the helm, losing six and drawing twice during his brief spell in charge.</p><p>"Nottingham Forest Football Club can confirm that after a series of disappointing results and performances, Ange Postecoglou has been relieved of his duties as head coach with immediate effect," the club statement <a href="https://x.com/NFFC/status/1979543591023259803">read</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Club owner Evangelos Marinakis, who made the controversial decision to part with Postecoglou's predecessor Nuno Espirito Santo on Sept. 8, wasn't in his seat with a quarter of the match remaining, according to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3371533" href="https://thescore.com/news/3371533">Agence France-Presse</a>.</p><p>Chelsea won at the City Ground with second-half goals from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/206534" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/206534">Josh Acheampong</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/92789" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/92789">Pedro Neto</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/100545" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/100545">Reece James</a>. The result put Forest in 17th place in the Premier League table and at risk of falling into the relegation zone once the weekend's fixtures are over.</p><p>Forest finished seventh last season under Nuno.</p><p>Postecoglou expressed confidence during the press conference ahead of the Chelsea match that he could turn Nottingham Forest's fortunes around.</p><p>"Maybe I'm a manager that if you give them time, the story always ends the same," <span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left">Postecoglou<a href="https://thescore.com/news/3370806" target="_blank"> said</a></span> Friday. "At all my previous clubs, it ends the same - with me and a trophy."</p><p>The 60-year-old won the Europa League with Tottenham Hotspur last season, ending a 17-year trophy drought at the club. However, the north London side still axed the Aussie after placing 17th in the Premier League - its worst top-flight finish since the 1976-77 campaign.</p><p>Postecoglou won silverware with South Melbourne, Brisbane Roar, Yokohama F. Marinos, and Celtic before joining Tottenham.</p><p>Former Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini, Fulham boss Marco Silva, and Sean Dyche, who has overseen Burnley and Everton in the Premier League, are potential candidates to replace Postecoglou, <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/clyqvv94p0go">BBC Sport</a> reports.</p>

Nottingham Forest head coach Ange Postecoglou following the Premier League match at the City Ground, Nottingham. Picture date: Saturday October 18, 2025.

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Postecoglou sacked as Forest boss immediately after 8th winless game

Manchester United CEO Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox are convinced Ruben Amor...

<p>Manchester United CEO Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox are convinced Ruben Amorim has the support of the dressing room, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/46517195/man-united-bosses-believe-players-back-ruben-amorim-sources">ESPN's Rob Dawson</a>.</p><p>The prominent executives, who were appointed by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, have reportedly held informal talks with key members of the first-team squad, including captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcquefa/players/23312" href="https://thescore.com/wcquefa/players/23312">Bruno Fernandes</a>, and the overall feedback on the embattled head coach was positive.</p><p>The discussions weren't intentional attempts to "sound out" players on Amorim's future, Dawson adds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Senior members of Amorim's team have also publicly voiced their backing for the former Sporting CP boss. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/96214" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/96214">Mason Mount</a> said after scoring in Saturday's 2-0 win over Sunderland that the players are "100% behind the gaffer."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/85691" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/85691">Matthijs de Ligt</a> stressed after a recent 3-1 loss at Brentford that the players need to take responsibility for poor performances. "You guys always talk about the system," the defender said of the media's tendency to focus criticism on Amorim's game plans rather than individual flaws, according to the Press Association via <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/46407512/forget-amorim-system-man-utd-players-get-blame-de-ligt">ESPN</a>.</p><p>Significant improvements were expected at Manchester United this season after they recorded 18 defeats and finished in 15th place in the Premier League last term. It was their worst top-flight campaign since they were relegated at the end of the 1973-74 season.</p><p>Amorim's side is currently 10th in the table with three wins, one draw, and three defeats. United's Premier League losses were in tough fixtures against Arsenal, Manchester City, and Brentford, but their worst result of the season thus far was their elimination from the League Cup second round at the hands of fourth-tier Grimsby Town.</p>

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim at half time during the Premier League match at Old Trafford, Manchester. Picture date: Saturday October 4, 2025.

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Report: Man United bosses believe Amorim has players' support

The Minnesota Wild signed goaltender Filip Gustavsson to a five-year contract with a $6.8-million...

<p>The Minnesota Wild signed goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9896" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9896">Filip Gustavsson</a> to a five-year contract with a $6.8-million cap hit, the team announced Saturday.</p><p>The extension comes days after franchise player <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7294">Kirill Kaprizov</a> inked the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3357833" href="https://thescore.com/news/3357833">biggest contract</a> in NHL history in total money and AAV. <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2582">Vladimir Tarasenko</a> and <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1658">Mats Zuccarello</a> are still prominent unrestricted Wild free agents heading into the new season.</p><p>The 27-year-old netminder posted a .914 save percentage with a 2.67 goals-against average across 58 games last season. He recorded five regular-season shutouts. In six playoff outings, he had a 2.71 goals-against average with a .913 save percentage.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Gustavsson is entering the final season of a three-year pact inked with the Wild in 2023 that carries a $3.75-million cap hit. He was set to become an unrestricted free agent next summer. He's currently in line to be the 11th-highest paid goaltender in the 2026-27 campaign.</p><p>A second-round pick by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2016 draft, Gustavsson was traded to the Ottawa Senators in 2018 and made his NHL debut with Ottawa in 2021. He's set for his fourth full season with the Wild after moving from the Senators in 2022.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - APRIL 22: Filip Gustavsson #32 of the Minnesota Wild tends net during the first period of Game Two of the First Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Vegas Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena on April 22, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Wild sign Gustavsson to 5-year, $34M contract

United States President Donald Trump said Friday that he will move 2026 World Cup matches from ci...

<p>United States President Donald Trump said Friday that he will move 2026 World Cup matches from cities he believes are too unsafe to carry out hosting duties.</p><p>The United States will host 78 World Cup fixtures across 11 different venues in June and July. Canada and Mexico get 13 matches each.</p><p>"It will be safe for the World Cup," Trump promised reporters in the Oval Office, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/czdjqvyvdd1o">BBC Sport's Tom Mallows</a>. "If I think it isn't safe, we'll move it into a different city."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Trump was asked specifically about Seattle and San Francisco, cities with Democratic mayors that have six World Cup games apiece (although the venue in the Bay Area is located in Santa Clara, California). The Republican leader said the cities are "run by radical left lunatics who don't know what they're doing," according to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/sep/26/donald-trump-warns-world-cup-games-may-be-moved-from-dangerous-cities">PA Media</a>.</p><p>"If any city we think is going to be even a little bit dangerous for the World Cup, or for the Olympics, but for the World Cup in particular, because they're playing in so many cities, we won't allow it to go. We'll move it around a little bit," Trump said, per Mallows.</p><p>The 2028 Summer Olympics will be staged in Los Angeles.</p><p>It's unclear whether Trump has the authority to switch host cities for the World Cup, Mallows reports. Nevertheless, Trump has indicated that he will attempt to exert influence over the global event, including Thursday when his administration said it will <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3353705" href="https://thescore.com/news/3353705">"stop any effort"</a> to ban Israel from potentially competing at the World Cup.</p><p>Trump also <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3282077" href="https://thescore.com/news/3282077">suggested</a> in May that offering Russia the opportunity to play at the World Cup could be an "incentive" for the country to end its war with Ukraine. Russia is suspended by FIFA and UEFA, and its men's team last played an official match in November 2021.</p><p>Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino have appeared together on numerous occasions in the buildup to 2026 World Cup, including when the President <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3329413" href="https://thescore.com/news/3329413">controversially held the famous trophy</a> at the Oval Office in August.</p><p>Infantino referred to the superstition that only the victorious team can handle the trophy when he noted that it's "for winners only." Infantino then added: "And, since you are a winner, of course you can as well."</p><p>In May, Infantino was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3286481" href="https://thescore.com/news/3286481">more than two hours late</a> when he arrived in Paraguay for FIFA's Congress, an annual meeting of over 200 nations to discuss soccer's most important issues. He was late after he attended meetings in Saudi Arabia and Qatar with Trump.</p><p>The draw for the World Cup is scheduled for Dec. 5 in Washington.</p>

US President Donald Trump joined by FIFA president Gianni Infantino (R) holds the World Cup Trophy as he makes an announcement in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on August 22, 2025. Trump announced the 2026 World Cup draw will be held on December 5 at Washington's Kennedy Center.

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Trump warns World Cup matches will be moved from 'dangerous' cities

The administration of United States President Donald Trump has vowed to help Israel resist increa...

<p>The administration of United States President Donald Trump has vowed to help Israel resist increasing pressure for its teams to be suspended from soccer.</p><p>"We will absolutely work to fully stop any effort to attempt to ban Israel's national soccer team from the World Cup," a State Department spokesperson told media Thursday, including <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cx2xpwedy5no">BBC Sport's Dan Roan and Sean Kearns</a>.</p><p>European soccer body UEFA is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3353605" href="https://thescore.com/news/3353605">reportedly</a> moving toward a vote on whether to ban Israeli teams over the war in Gaza, and a majority of its executive committee is expected to support the country's suspension. A ban would likely affect Israel's women's and men's teams of various age groups in international soccer and also result in the expulsion of Maccabi Tel-Aviv from the Europa League.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>FIFA and UEFA banned Russia from competitive international fixtures and continental club competitions four days after the country invaded Ukraine in February 2022.</p><p>Numerous voices have spoken out against Israel's participation in soccer since its military campaign in Gaza started following a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. A group of United Nations experts <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3352314" href="https://thescore.com/news/3352314">said</a> Tuesday that suspending Israeli teams was "a necessary response to address the ongoing genocide."</p><p>Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and the Italian Soccer Coaches' Association are among other figures and organizations that have called for Israel to be banned in recent weeks. Some matches in Europe's elite domestic leagues and continental competitions have featured anti-Israel and pro-Palestine banners and chants from fans.</p><p>The Oct. 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people while 251 others were taken hostage. At least 65,419 people in Gaza have been killed in retaliatory Israeli attacks since, according to figures from the territory's health ministry cited by <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz9j4190171o">BBC News' David Gritten</a> on Wednesday.</p><p>Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, sports and culture minister Miki Zohar, and soccer federation president Moshe Zuares have been working "intensively behind the scenes" to block efforts to drive Israel out of UEFA, Zohar's office told The Associated Press on Thursday.</p><p>The seemingly close relationship between FIFA president Gianni Infantino and President Trump also casts doubts on whether Israel would be excluded should it qualify for the World Cup. FIFA oversees the prestigious international tournament, and the 2026 edition will feature 78 matches in the United States, plus 13 each for Canada and Mexico.</p><p>Israel is currently placed below Norway and Italy in Group I of UEFA's World Cup qualification cycle. Norway has a strong hold on first place, which offers a direct route to the tournament in North America, with five wins from five matches. Teams that finish second in their group enter playoffs for a spot at the World Cup; Italy and Israel are both on nine points, but Italy is above Israel courtesy of its superior goal difference.</p>

US President Donald Trump speaks during a meeting with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC on September 25, 2025.

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Trump administration will 'stop any effort' to ban Israel from soccer

The Champions League returned this week, and we broke down all the action. Check out our key take...

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Analysis from opening round of Champions League matches

Erling Haaland smashed another scoring record Thursday after racing to his 50th Champions League ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/159222" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/159222">Erling Haaland</a> smashed another scoring record Thursday after racing to his 50th Champions League goal in Manchester City's 2-0 win over Napoli.</p><p>The Norwegian striker reached the half-century mark in his 49th tournament appearance, smartly lifting a header past the outstretched Napoli goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic after a clever assist by Phil Foden.</p><p>Ruud van Nistelrooy was previously the fastest player to amass 50 goals after he reached the milestone in 62 outings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Fastest to 50</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Matches</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Erling Haaland</td>
<td>49</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ruud van Nistelrooy</td>
<td>62</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lionel Messi</td>
<td>66</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Robert Lewandowski</td>
<td>77</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kylian Mbappe</td>
<td>79</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Karim Benzema</td>
<td>88</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cristiano Ronaldo</td>
<td>91</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Haaland is averaging 1.07 goals every Champions League match. Cristiano Ronaldo, the all-time leading scorer in the competition with 140 goals after the qualification phase, struck at a rate of 0.77 goals per game.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Erling Haaland scores his 50th goal in the UEFA Champions League in just his 49th game, reaching a half century faster than anyone in the competition's history.<br><br>He comfortably beats the previous record set by Ruud van Nistelrooy (62 games).<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/N409fJk9bj">pic.twitter.com/N409fJk9bj</a></p>— Opta Analyst (@OptaAnalyst) <a href="https://twitter.com/OptaAnalyst/status/1968772722495775201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"The numbers speak for themselves and how fortunate we are to have him," Pep Guardiola said of Haaland. </p><p>"Along with the two monsters of the past 15 to 20 years Ronaldo and (Lionel) Messi, Erling is there. In terms of goals he is unbelievable," Guardiola added. "In that rhythm (he can break the record). If he can play 10 to 12 more years and maintain this progression, absolutely."</p>

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 18: Erling Braut Haaland of Manchester City celebrates after scoring their side's first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Manchester City and SSC Napoli at City of Manchester Stadium on September 18, 2025 in Manchester, England.

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Haaland obliterates record as fastest player to 50 Champions League goals

Each month during the 2025-26 season, we debate which clubs are among Europe's elite. In the firs...

<p><em>Each month during the 2025-26 season, we debate which clubs are among Europe's elite. In the first edition of the new campaign, we're overreacting to early-season results and trends.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to</strong>:<br><a href="#Arsenal">ARS</a> | <a href="#Bilbao">ATH</a> | <a href="#Barca">BAR</a> | <a href="#Bournemouth">BOU</a> | <a href="#BVB">BVB</a> | <a href="#Chelsea">CHE</a> | <a href="#Bayern">FCB</a> | <a href="#Feyenoord">FEY</a> | <a href="#Gala">GS</a> | <a href="#Inter">INT</a> | <a href="#Juve">JUV</a> | <a href="#Lille">LIL</a> | <a href="#Liverpool">LIV</a> | <a href="#Man%20City">MCI</a> | <a href="#Napoli">NAP</a> | <a href="#Porto">POR</a> | <a href="#PSG">PSG</a> | <a href="#Real%20Madrid">RMA</a> | <a href="#Benfica">SLB</a> | <a href="#Spurs">TOT</a></p><h3>1. <a id="PSG" name="PSG">Paris Saint-Germain</a> 🇫🇷</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793930/cropped_GettyImages-2223702569.jpg?ts=1752259376" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793930/w220xh124_GettyImages-2223702569.jpg?ts=1752259376 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793930/w320xh180_GettyImages-2223702569.jpg?ts=1752259376 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793930/w640xh360_GettyImages-2223702569.jpg?ts=1752259376 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793930/w768xh432_GettyImages-2223702569.jpg?ts=1752259376 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793930/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2223702569.jpg?ts=1752259376 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Steph Chambers - FIFA / FIFA / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>There's a conspiracy against PSG. Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue were injured on international duty with France, and the team then lost Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Lee Kang-in, and Lucas Beraldo ahead of its Champions League opener. The football gods don't want PSG to retain their European crown.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>2. <a id="Liverpool" name="Liverpool">Liverpool</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</h3><p>Liverpool's performance at Burnley on Sunday was unimpressive, but it felt inevitable that Arne Slot's side would eventually win. And that's how it turned out: Mohamed Salah scored a 95th-minute penalty to take all three points. The fact that Liverpool are already winning while playing ugly is a clear sign they'll easily defend their Premier League title.</p><h3>3. <a id="Real Madrid" name="Real%20Madrid">Real Madrid</a> 🇪🇸</h3><p>Is Dean Huijsen overrated? The 20-year-old defender has been heralded by basically everybody as the second coming of Franz Beckenbauer, but he's now received two red cards in just nine official Real Madrid games. Thankfully for Madrid, Kylian Mbappe is ready to put the team on his back this season.</p><h3>4. <a id="Bayern" name="Bayern">Bayern Munich</a> 🇩🇪</h3><p>Vincent Kompany expressed satisfaction with Bayern Munich's team chemistry after Saturday's 5-0 thumping of Hamburg. The players have a better understanding of their roles and one another's strengths, resulting in more rhythmic and incisive football. Bayern could have an unbeaten league season just two years after Bayer Leverkusen completed that feat for the first time in Bundesliga history.</p><h3>5. <a id="Arsenal" name="Arsenal">Arsenal</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798611/cropped_GettyImages-2230830970.jpg?ts=1755974499" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798611/w220xh124_GettyImages-2230830970.jpg?ts=1755974499 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798611/w320xh180_GettyImages-2230830970.jpg?ts=1755974499 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798611/w640xh360_GettyImages-2230830970.jpg?ts=1755974499 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798611/w768xh432_GettyImages-2230830970.jpg?ts=1755974499 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798611/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2230830970.jpg?ts=1755974499 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">HENRY NICHOLLS / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Viktor Gyokeres will lead the Premier League in scoring after acclimating quickly to his new club. At the other end of the pitch, Mikel Arteta's insistence on fielding at least four center-backs at all times will see Arsenal establish a new league record for the fewest goals allowed in a single season.</p><h3>6. <a id="Barca" name="Barca">Barcelona</a> 🇪🇸</h3><p>Barcelona can withstand Lamine Yamal's absence. The Catalan giants were winless in three league matches without the teen phenom last season, but their 6-0 destruction of Valencia showed they aren't as reliant on the Ballon d'Or contender this term thanks to some shrewd summer additions.</p><h3>7. <a id="Napoli" name="Napoli">Napoli</a> 🇮🇹</h3><p>Rasmus Hojlund is going to flourish in Naples. With a reinvigorated Kevin De Bruyne providing exquisite service, the Dane will quickly put his Manchester United struggles behind him. Even when he returns from injury, Romelu Lukaku will have a tough time displacing Hojlund in Antonio Conte's lineup.</p><h3>8. <a id="Chelsea" name="Chelsea">Chelsea</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</h3><p>Joao Pedro is the summer's most overrated transfer. The former Brighton &amp; Hove Albion forward earned rave reviews for his Club World Cup performances, but he only scored five non-penalty goals in the Premier League last season, and he's never been a prolific finisher. Chelsea have accumulated so many attackers but still lack an elite striker.</p><h3>9. <a id="Juve" name="Juve">Juventus</a> 🇮🇹</h3><p>Igor Tudor is a genius. The Juventus manager has the respect of his players on a human level, but he's proving to be a more astute tactical mind than anyone previously gave him credit for. His substitutions decided the Derby d'Italia, and his team is the only one capable of challenging Napoli for the title.</p><h3>10. <a id="Spurs" name="Spurs">Tottenham Hotspur</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801116/cropped_GettyImages-2234592884.jpg?ts=1757788620" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801116/w220xh124_GettyImages-2234592884.jpg?ts=1757788620 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801116/w320xh180_GettyImages-2234592884.jpg?ts=1757788620 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801116/w640xh360_GettyImages-2234592884.jpg?ts=1757788620 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801116/w768xh432_GettyImages-2234592884.jpg?ts=1757788620 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801116/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2234592884.jpg?ts=1757788620 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Vince Mignott/MB Media / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The early days of Thomas Frank's Tottenham reign are extremely promising after last season's 17th-placed finish. The Danish coach simply sees things that his contemporaries don't: Mohammed Kudus rarely hit a cross at West Ham United, but his deliveries are already a valuable weapon for Spurs. Frank can win the Premier League Manager of the Season award.</p><h3>11. <a id="Man City" name="Man%20City">Manchester City</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</h3><p>The recent scrutiny of Gianluigi Donnarumma's ball-playing skills was an overreaction in itself. He's fine with his feet, connecting with six long passes and confidently moving the ball around with his defenders during Sunday's Manchester derby win, and he makes saves no other goalkeeper could dream of. At just £26 million, he's the best signing of the summer by far.</p><h3>12. <a id="Porto" name="Porto">FC Porto</a> 🇵🇹</h3><p>There are flashier names in Porto's squad, like striker Samu Aghehowa and goalkeeper Diogo Costa, but Alberto Costa will soon be pursued by Europe's leading clubs. The right-back recorded four assists in the opening four matches of the Primeira Liga campaign. He pairs confident and slick dribbling with strong and stubborn defending. Juve were wrong to let him go.</p><h3>13. <a id="BVB" name="BVB">Borussia Dortmund</a> 🇩🇪</h3><p>After finishing behind Harry Kane in each of the last two seasons, Serhou Guirassy will finally upstage the Bayern Munich striker and take home the Torjagerkanone<em> </em>as the Bundesliga's top scorer this year. The continued development of Maximilian Beier will help free up more space and scoring chances for Guirassy, who'll push for the European Golden Shoe.</p><h3>14. <a id="Gala" name="Gala">Galatasaray</a> 🇹🇷</h3><p>Galatasaray have some tricky fixtures in the Champions League's opening phase, but this squad can cause upsets and make a deep run in the competition. Most European clubs dream of selecting Victor Osimhen and Leroy Sane in attack, while Mauro Icardi, Ilkay Gundogan, and Turkish stars Baris Alper Yilmaz and Yunus Akgun ratchet up the fear factor even more.</p><h3>15. <a id="Benfica" name="Benfica">Benfica</a> 🇵🇹</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801409/cropped_GettyImages-2229082705.jpg?ts=1757950822" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801409/w220xh124_GettyImages-2229082705.jpg?ts=1757950822 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801409/w320xh180_GettyImages-2229082705.jpg?ts=1757950822 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801409/w640xh360_GettyImages-2229082705.jpg?ts=1757950822 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801409/w768xh432_GettyImages-2229082705.jpg?ts=1757950822 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801409/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2229082705.jpg?ts=1757950822 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">MB Media / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Benfica's incredible run of finding hidden gems and flipping them for massive profits is coming to an end. Sporting director Rui Pedro Braz is reportedly leaving the club, which will force a huge philosophical shift within the scouting department and could change the landscape of the Primeira Liga.</p><h3>16. <a id="Bournemouth" name="Bournemouth">Bournemouth</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</h3><p>Andoni Iraola is one of the best managers in the world, full stop. While other coaches require huge investment in the transfer market to succeed, the Basque tactician works with what he has. Bournemouth lost nearly their entire backline in the summer, but Iraola still has them rolling right along.</p><h3>17. <a id="Feyenoord" name="Feyenoord">Feyenoord</a> 🇳🇱</h3><p>Quinten is the superior Timber twin. The emerging Feyenoord star, whose twin brother Jurrien plays for Arsenal, is a complete midfielder. He'll get his big-money move to one of Europe's top leagues after leading Feyenoord to the Eredivisie title and shining at the 2026 World Cup with the Netherlands.</p><h3>18. <a id="Lille" name="Lille">Lille</a> 🇫🇷</h3><p>Not only have Lille not missed a beat this season after several marquee summer departures, they may actually be even better. Despite losing Jonathan David, Edon Zhegrova, and Angel Gomes - among others - Les Dogues are the top scorers in Ligue 1 right now. Olivier Giroud, 38, has plenty left in the tank.</p><h3>19. <a id="Bilbao" name="Bilbao">Athletic Bilbao</a> 🇪🇸</h3><p>Athletic Club will be one of the most pleasant surprises of this season's Champions League, and they'll push Atletico Madrid all year for the "best of the rest" title in Spain behind Real Madrid and Barcelona. Aymeric Laporte's return will be one of the most astute pieces of business anywhere this season.</p><h3>20. <a id="Inter" name="Inter">Inter Milan</a> 🇮🇹</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801007/cropped_GettyImages-2233144887.jpg?ts=1757690432" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801007/w220xh124_GettyImages-2233144887.jpg?ts=1757690432 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801007/w320xh180_GettyImages-2233144887.jpg?ts=1757690432 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801007/w640xh360_GettyImages-2233144887.jpg?ts=1757690432 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801007/w768xh432_GettyImages-2233144887.jpg?ts=1757690432 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801007/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2233144887.jpg?ts=1757690432 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mattia Pistoia - Inter / FC Internazionale / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Cristian Chivu needs to go. The inexperienced manager is a massive downgrade from Simone Inzaghi. Inter only lost five league games all of last season, but they've already dropped two of their opening three fixtures under Chivu's leadership, and the once-vaunted defense is suddenly full of holes. A title push already seems unlikely.</p><p><strong>On the cusp:</strong> Lyon, PSV, Cremonese</p>

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Soccer Power Rankings: Early overreactions for every team

There are plenty of debuts to look out for in the Premier League after a flurry of transfer busin...

<p><em>There are plenty of debuts to look out for in the Premier League after a flurry of transfer business late in the summer window was followed by World Cup qualifiers and international friendlies. Here, we highlight eight newcomers at some of England's leading clubs.</em></p><h3>Gianluigi Donnarumma (Manchester City)</h3><p>💰 <strong><a href="https://thescore.com/news/3335872">Details</a>:</strong> £26M transfer</p><p>Donnarumma has made costly errors with his feet, which makes him a less natural replacement for Ederson. The departed Brazilian could intricately build up play from the back or quickly slice through opponents with flat, powerful passes toward the attackers. Last season, Ederson notched four Premier League assists in 26 Premier League outings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>During the international break, Donnarumma was asked about Pep Guardiola's preference for ball-playing goalkeepers. "I always try to help the team and do what the coach asks of me. I do everything; you can always improve in everything, but regarding what the coach asks of me, I try to improve," he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3337566" href="https://thescore.com/news/3337566">said</a>. The Italian could face more scrutiny than Claudio Bravo, who struggled at City after replacing Joe Hart between the sticks in 2016.</p><h3>Harvey Elliott (Aston Villa)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800348/cropped_GettyImages-2233496198.jpg?ts=1757262117" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800348/w220xh124_GettyImages-2233496198.jpg?ts=1757262117 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800348/w320xh180_GettyImages-2233496198.jpg?ts=1757262117 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800348/w640xh360_GettyImages-2233496198.jpg?ts=1757262117 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800348/w768xh432_GettyImages-2233496198.jpg?ts=1757262117 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800348/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2233496198.jpg?ts=1757262117 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Neville Williams / Aston Villa FC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>💰 <strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3336403" href="https://thescore.com/news/3336403">Details</a>:</strong> Season-long loan with £35M option to buy</p><p>Much like Marcus Rashford last January, Jadon Sancho has arrived on loan at Aston Villa from Manchester United this summer in an effort to get his career back on track. Available on a free transfer after his United contract expired, Victor Lindelof also joined Unai Emery's side.</p><p>But the capture of Elliott is most interesting. He never became a regular starter for Liverpool, and last season's foot injury felt especially harmful to his chances of establishing himself as a key player for the eventual Premier League champions. Yet, the 22-year-old midfielder's potential remains extremely high - he was named the best player after England's European Under-21 Championship success this summer (even though Elliot Anderson was arguably better). Elliott could slot neatly into a No. 10 role behind Ollie Watkins or on the right flank at Aston Villa. The No. 10 position didn't really exist at Liverpool during Elliott's six-and-a-bit seasons with the club.</p><h3>Alejandro Garnacho (Chelsea)</h3><p>💰 <strong><a href="https://thescore.com/news/3333719">Details</a>:</strong> £40M transfer</p><p>Chelsea can't stop signing attacking players. Garnacho got the move he craved when Manchester United approved his £40-million switch to the capital, and he certainly doesn't lack the confidence required to battle for minutes in Enzo Maresca's top-heavy squad.</p><p>Garnacho's technical skills and speed are obvious, but he's wasteful in the final third, most frustratingly through his habit of bungling inviting opportunities to score. Chelsea fans got on Noni Madueke's back for selfishness and poor decision-making, so the Argentine winger will need to find greater consistency in his game to avoid falling victim to supporters' ire. And, of course, many attacking recruits before Garnacho have struggled under Chelsea's unforgiving squad-rotation policy in the Todd Boehly era.</p><h3>Alexander Isak (Liverpool)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799686/cropped_GettyImages-2233247829.jpg?ts=1756762772" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799686/w220xh124_GettyImages-2233247829.jpg?ts=1756762772 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799686/w320xh180_GettyImages-2233247829.jpg?ts=1756762772 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799686/w640xh360_GettyImages-2233247829.jpg?ts=1756762772 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799686/w768xh432_GettyImages-2233247829.jpg?ts=1756762772 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799686/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2233247829.jpg?ts=1756762772 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Nikki Dyer - LFC / Liverpool FC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>💰 <strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3335655" href="https://thescore.com/news/3335655">Details</a>:</strong> £130M transfer</p><p>Regular Premier League viewers know what to expect from the man who was at the center of this summer's ugliest transfer saga. A clinical finisher with balletic feet, Isak would improve any team in world football. He finished runner-up to Mohamed Salah in last season's Golden Boot race with 23 goals.</p><p>The biggest questions are where and when he fits in. Offseason signing Hugo Ekitike, Cody Gakpo, and Salah have all had strong starts to the season, so who drops out for Isak? The Swede's fitness is another concern: his summer strike at Newcastle United meant he had few team training sessions and no on-pitch action until he was brought on in the 72nd minute of his country's surprise 2-0 World Cup qualifying loss to Kosovo on Monday. Expect Isak's Liverpool debut to be from the bench.</p><h3>Kevin (Fulham)</h3><p>💰 <strong><a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cpwywrxv828o">Details</a>:</strong> £34.6M transfer</p><p>Kevin is flashier than his pleasingly simple name. The Brazilian winger - signed from Shakhtar Donetsk for just under £35 million - obsessively dribbled into dangerous positions and duped opponents with his trickery in the Ukrainian Premier League. He has also delivered at a higher level, scoring fine goals in competitive fixtures against Bayern Munich and Besiktas within the past 10 months.</p><p>Fulham lacked a player who could get fans off their seats, and the 22-year-old Kevin can do that while contributing on the defensive side of the game with a surprising number of interceptions and tackles.</p><h3>Senne Lammens (Manchester United)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798496/cropped_GettyImages-2226204520.jpg?ts=1755884101" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798496/w220xh124_GettyImages-2226204520.jpg?ts=1755884101 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798496/w320xh180_GettyImages-2226204520.jpg?ts=1755884101 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798496/w640xh360_GettyImages-2226204520.jpg?ts=1755884101 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798496/w768xh432_GettyImages-2226204520.jpg?ts=1755884101 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798496/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2226204520.jpg?ts=1755884101 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">BSR Agency / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>💰 <strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3336421" href="https://thescore.com/news/3336421">Details</a>:</strong> €21M transfer before add-ons</p><p>With a refreshed attack and goalkeeping shakeup among the sweeping changes at Old Trafford, Manchester United tried to give Ruben Amorim everything he wanted this summer. Lammens' arrival is a direct result of that strategy.</p><p>Lammens is quick off his line when an attacker takes a heavy touch and swiftly spreads his body to block close-range shots. He's also more aggressive in trying to claim aerial deliveries than Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir. However, there's definitely a risk in placing complete trust in a 23-year-old who has played only one full season in the Belgian Pro League.</p><h3>Xavi Simons (Tottenham Hotspur)</h3><p>💰 <strong><a href="https://thescore.com/news/3334110">Details</a>:</strong> €60M transfer</p><p>Simons was among a group of players who left RB Leipzig after appearing to lose commitment to the Red Bull-backed project. While €60 million seems a little steep for an attacker who never reached 20 goal involvements in a single Bundesliga campaign, Simons is just 22, and other English clubs were guilty of more blatant overspends during the summer.</p><p>The Dutchman should complement Mohammed Kudus, who has sparkled during his opening few weeks with Tottenham. Kudus makes inroads in attack with his immense dribbling ability. Simons is also mobile, with his acceleration particularly noteworthy. However, his excellent vision and passing skills, especially when operating in tight areas between the lines, really stand out.</p><h3>Nick Woltemade (Newcastle United)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799227/cropped_GettyImages-2232257646.jpg?ts=1756419151" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799227/w220xh124_GettyImages-2232257646.jpg?ts=1756419151 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799227/w320xh180_GettyImages-2232257646.jpg?ts=1756419151 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799227/w640xh360_GettyImages-2232257646.jpg?ts=1756419151 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799227/w768xh432_GettyImages-2232257646.jpg?ts=1756419151 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799227/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2232257646.jpg?ts=1756419151 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ronny Hartmann / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>💰 <strong><a href="https://thescore.com/news/3334531">Details</a>:</strong> £69M transfer</p><p>For much of the summer, Newcastle couldn't be trusted to sign a birthday card, let alone a Champions League-level player. Whether late-window additions Woltemade and Yoane Wissa possess the quality to unlock the likes of Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain during the competition's league phase remains to be seen.</p><p>At 29, Wissa has likely reached his peak after four seasons of steady improvement with Brentford, making it extremely unlikely that the striker gets close to singlehandedly compensating for Isak's exit. Woltemade, who was a long-term target of Bayern Munich, is the most intriguing recruit. Standing 6-foot-6, the German should probably be more dominant in the air, but he's more of an on-the-ground creative weapon. He tended to drop deeper than the other frontman in Stuttgart's 4-4-2 formation, carrying the ball forward and providing chances for his teammates.</p>

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<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcqcaf/players/40714" href="https://thescore.com/wcqcaf/players/40714">Andre Onana</a> has joined Turkish side Trabzonspor on a season-long loan, Manchester United confirmed Thursday.</p><p>The Super Lig club will cover the oft-criticized goalkeeper's wages before boosting them with numerous bonuses, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6608350/2025/09/07/andre-onana-loan-man-united-news-trabzonspor/">The Athletic's Laurie Whitwell</a>. The loan agreement doesn't include an option or obligation to buy.</p><p>Trabzonspor were desperate to bring Onana to the Black Sea coast in time for their trip to Fenerbahce on Sept. 14.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Turkish transfer window closes Friday.</p><p>Onana's new teammates at Trabzonspor include experienced former Manchester City and Atletico Madrid defender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcquefa/players/12588" href="https://thescore.com/wcquefa/players/12588">Stefan Savic</a>, and towering ex-Southampton striker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/60073" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/60073">Paul Onuachu</a>.</p><p>Onana joined United as David De Gea's replacement in a €55-million move from Inter Milan in 2023. He reunited with former Ajax boss Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford. However, his time at the club was soon defined by high-profile errors, leading former midfielder Nemanja Matic to <a href="https://www.thescore.com/fra_fed/news/3262506">label him</a> as "one of the worst goalkeepers in Man United's history" in April.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcquefa/players/163652" href="https://thescore.com/wcquefa/players/163652">Altay Bayindir</a> has started all three Premier League matches between the sticks for United this season. Onana was given a chance in the League Cup second round against Grimsby Town, but he conceded two goals before losing a drawn-out penalty shootout to the fourth-tier minnows.</p><p>The 29-year-old's prospects of being United's first-choice goalkeeper this campaign dwindled further when the club completed the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3336421" href="https://thescore.com/news/3336421">deadline-day signing</a> of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/165236" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/165236">Senne Lammens</a> from Royal Antwerp for an initial €21-million fee.</p><p>Onana started both of Cameroon's World Cup qualification matches during the recent international window. The Indomitable Lions beat Eswatini before falling 1-0 to Cape Verde in a crucial result that puts them in danger of missing the World Cup.</p><p> </p>

Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana before the Premier League match at Old Trafford, Manchester. Picture date: Saturday August 30, 2025.

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<p>Norway ripped Moldova to shreds Tuesday in a relentless 11-1 World Cup qualification win.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcquefa/players/159222" href="https://thescore.com/wcquefa/players/159222">Erling Haaland</a> scored five goals, taking his overall tally to 48 goals in 45 outings for his country. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcquefa/players/167263" href="https://thescore.com/wcquefa/players/167263">Thelo Aasgaard</a> struck four times after being called off the bench in the 64th minute for his third Norway cap. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcquefa/players/34831" href="https://thescore.com/wcquefa/players/34831">Martin Odegaard</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcquefa/players/209398" href="https://thescore.com/wcquefa/players/209398">Felix Horn Myhre</a> scored a goal apiece.</p><p>Norway's men's team has impressively notched 11 goals in two other matches across its history, albeit in two friendlies. It trounced Finland 12-0 in 1946 and thrashed the United States 11-0 in 1948.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The biggest World Cup qualification victory under UEFA's umbrella was a 12-0 success for Germany against Cyprus in 1969, according to <a href="https://x.com/SweeperPod/status/1965514660754677980">The Sweeper podcast</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">5 - Erling Haaland has scored in each of his last eight international appearances, scoring 14 goals, while he's the first European player to score five times in a World Cup qualifier since Hans Krankl scored six for Austria v Malta in 1977. Unstoppable. <a href="https://t.co/6d7Dz8aZ9u">pic.twitter.com/6d7Dz8aZ9u</a></p>— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) <a href="https://twitter.com/OptaJoe/status/1965526265676660980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Aasgaard is just the third player to score four goals as a substitute in World Cup qualifiers, according to respected soccer statistician <a href="https://x.com/2010MisterChip/status/1965517238930133077">MisterChip</a>. He follows Portugal's Nuno Gomes (2001) and Vanuatu's Seule Solomon (2007).</p><p>Norway is top of Group I in UEFA's World Cup qualification cycle with five wins from five matches. Second-placed Italy and Israel, which is third, are six points behind the Norwegians.</p><p>Norway hasn't participated in the men's World Cup since its round of 16 elimination in 1998.</p>

Norway's forward #09 Erling Braut Haland (R) celebrates scoring the 6-0 goal during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers Europe zone group I football match between Norway and Moldova on September 9, 2025 in Oslo, Norway.

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<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/166409" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/166409">Xavi Simons</a> signed a contract with Tottenham Hotspur rather than Chelsea after reportedly traveling to London on Thursday to determine which club to join.</p><p>Spurs encouraged the Dutch attacker to ink terms on a five-year deal with an option for two additional years, according to transfer insider <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1961460787777548744">Fabrizio Romano</a>. His move to Tottenham from RB Leipzig cost a fixed €60-million fee.</p><p>Simons approved personal terms to join Chelsea back in July, but the Club World Cup winners ultimately failed to reach an agreement with Leipzig for his transfer, Romano <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1961215818177409431">reports</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The arrival of Simons, who will wear <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/12696" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/12696">Son Heung-min</a>'s old No. 7 shirt at Tottenham, follows around a week after Arsenal beat Spurs to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/90906" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/90906">Eberechi Eze</a>'s signature. Tottenham also reportedly missed out on signing Nottingham Forest's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/91051" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/91051">Morgan Gibbs-White</a> earlier this summer. Simons is similarly versatile to Eze, but his statistics bear more similarities to Gibbs-White because his attacking penetration often comes courtesy of his passing instead of his dribbling.</p><p>"I will bring flair to the team but also hard work and discipline. I want to do everything I can to win, for the team and also for the fans," Simons said in Friday's announcement.</p><p>The 22-year-old recorded 18 goals and 17 assists in 58 Bundesliga appearances for Leipzig. He previously won Ligue 1 while playing a bit part for Paris Saint-Germain in the 2021-22 campaign, and he won the KNVB Cup with PSV Eindhoven in 2023. Leipzig paid an initial €50-million fee to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3204697" href="https://thescore.com/news/3204697">sign</a> Simons from PSG on a permanent basis in January.</p><p>Simons boasts 28 caps for the Netherlands. He represented his country at the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024.</p>

LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 30: New signing Xavi Simons of Tottenham Hotspur is introduced to the fans ahead of the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Bournemouth at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on August 30, 2025 in London, England.

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<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/90906" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/90906">Eberechi Eze</a> completed his return to Arsenal ahead of the team's 5-0 win over Leeds United on Saturday.</p><p>The Gunners reached an agreement to sign Eze from Crystal Palace for around £68 million, beating out local rivals Tottenham Hotspur to his signature, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6565048/2025/08/20/eberechi-eze-arsenal-transfer-agreement/">The Athletic's David Ornstein</a>.</p><p>The 27-year-old signed a long-term contract with Arsenal before he was introduced to fans at the Emirates Stadium. He wasn't part of Mikel Arteta's matchday squad to face Leeds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"He is a powerful and exciting player who will give us a new dimension in our attacking game," Arteta <a href="https://www.arsenal.com/news/eberechi-eze-signs-arsenal">said</a>. "What stands out just as much as his talent and intelligence as a player, is the way he has worked hard throughout his career to get where he is today. "</p><p>Eze told <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cn85d82q55zo">BBC Sport</a> in May that representing Arsenal's academy "was everything" before he was released at 13. He was subsequently released by Fulham and Millwall, and had numerous unsuccessful trials elsewhere, until Queens Park Rangers took a chance on him.</p><p>Eze broke into QPR's first team after an excellent loan spell with Wycombe Wanderers. He soon developed a reputation for his slippery movement, tricks and, most crucially, his consistency. The playmaker joined Crystal Palace in the summer of 2020 and quickly established himself as a fan favorite en route to making 169 appearances, scoring 40 goals and recording 28 assists. He scored the winner in Palace's FA Cup final triumph over Manchester City.</p><p>Now, Eze is returning to the club that he first joined aged nine.</p><p>"The better the feeling, the stronger the feeling, I think the better," manager Arteta <a href="https://www.thescore.com/eng_fed/news/3329299">said</a> Friday of the attacking midfielder's Arsenal allegiance.</p><p>"It brings a different edge, a different will and emotion to what you do. I think that always brings something extra."</p><p>Eze expected to sign for Tottenham, but he called Arteta on Wednesday to see if there was any possibility of Arsenal turning their interest into an official approach, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6568120/2025/08/23/inside-eberechi-eze-arsenal-transfer/">The Athletic's James McNicholas</a> reports. Arsenal matched the financial package offered by Spurs later that day, leaving Eze with the straightforward decision to become his boyhood club's seventh senior signing of a busy summer.</p><p>The move follows news of an injury to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/86595" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/86595">Kai Havertz</a>. However, Arteta said there was no relation between the German forward's knee issue and Eze's arrival.</p><p>"We are not reacting to anything," he insisted. "We've been very prepared and understanding what we could do, and we have decided this is the moment to do it."</p><p>His arrival gives Arteta another creative force who can operate in multiple positions.</p><p>Though most comfortable as a No. 10, Eze will likely slot into Arsenal's lineup as a left-sided attacker, further strengthening a positional group that already includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/161088" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/161088">Gabriel Martinelli</a> and summer signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/162571" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/162571">Noni Madueke</a>. Madueke was picked to start ahead of Martinelli against Leeds.</p><p>Arteta said before Eze's transfer was announced that it's proof the club is "showing the ambition" that's required to win major trophies.</p><p>"We want to be in front in the league, not just chasing or reacting or being behind, but in front of it, and every decision that we make in every area of the club is to achieve that," he stressed.</p>

LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 23: Eberechi Eze is presented to the fans prior to the Premier League match between Arsenal and Leeds United at Emirates Stadium on August 23, 2025 in London, England.

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<p>CF Montreal signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/102879" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/102879">Ivan Jaime</a> on loan from FC Porto with an option to buy Friday.</p><p>The 24-year-old midfielder becomes the club's second designated player after Italian forward Giacomo Vrioni.</p><p>Jaime's loan spell runs until June 30, 2026. Should Montreal exercise the option to make his stay permanent, the Spaniard will be under contract until the end of the 2027 MLS season. There are additional options for the 2028 and 2029 campaigns.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Jaime cost Porto around $10 million to sign from fellow Portuguese side Famalicao in 2023, according to <a href="https://x.com/tombogert/status/1958181831280345339">GiveMeSport's Tom Bogert</a>.</p><p>"We are very pleased to welcome Ivan Jaime to our squad," said Luca Saputo, the club's managing director of recruitment and sporting methodology. "His profile and qualities are fully in line with the sporting vision we want to build within our club. His technical talent and ability to make a difference in the offensive third will bring a new dimension to our team."</p><p>CF Montreal were busy in the days leading up to Jaime's arrival.</p><p>The club sent Joel Waterman to Chicago Fire on Wednesday in exchange for $500,000 in general allocation money (GAM) spread over the 2025 and 2026 seasons. Montreal also sent $175,000 in GAM to Sporting Kansas City to acquire an international roster spot.</p><p>On Thursday, Montreal sold Caden Clark to D.C. United for a guaranteed $700,000 fee plus $100,000 in add-ons and a percentage of his resale value. Later that day, Montreal acquired Bode Hidalgo from Real Salt Lake for $200,000 in 2025 GAM, plus a conditional amount of up to $150,000 in GAM and a second-round pick in the 2026 MLS Superdraft.</p>

Ivan Jaime of FC Porto reacts during the UEFA Europa League match between FC Porto and FC Midtjylland at Estadio Do Dragao in Porto, Portugal, on December 12, 2024.

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<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/17673" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/17673">Mohamed Salah</a> was crowned the Professional Footballers' Association Men's Player of the Year for a record third time Tuesday after he starred during Liverpool's 2024-25 Premier League title-winning campaign.</p><p>The Egyptian attacker dominated the scoring and assists charts as he struck 29 times while creating 18 goals for his teammates, equaling the record for goal involvements in a single Premier League season. Salah also claimed his fourth Golden Boot, tying Arsenal icon Thierry Henry's record.</p><p><strong>Most goal involvements in a season</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Season</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Goal involvements</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>2024-25</td>
<td>Mohamed Salah</td>
<td>47</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1994-95*</td>
<td>Alan Shearer</td>
<td>47</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1993-94*</td>
<td>Andy Cole</td>
<td>47</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2022-23</td>
<td>Erling Haaland</td>
<td>44</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2002-03</td>
<td>Thierry Henry</td>
<td>44</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>* <em>42-game Premier League season. England's top flight changed to a 38-game season for the 1995-96 campaign.</em></p><p>Salah, 33, won the 2024-25 PFA Player of the Year prize ahead of Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes, Newcastle United's Alexander Isak, Chelsea's Cole Palmer, Arsenal's Declan Rice, and Liverpool teammate Alexis Mac Allister.</p><p>Salah was also voted the country's top player by his contemporaries after the 2017-18 term - his first campaign with Liverpool after moving to Merseyside from Serie A side Roma - and following the 2021-22 season.</p><p>Aston Villa's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/101913" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/101913">Morgan Rogers</a> was named the PFA Young Player of the Year after registering eight goals and 10 assists in the first full Premier League season of his career. The other nominees were Arsenal duo Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri, plus three players who've cost around £120 million in transfer fees since the 2024-25 season concluded: Liam Delap, Dean Huijsen, and Milos Kerkez.</p><p>Versatile Arsenal star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///olymsw/players/122481" href="https://thescore.com/olymsw/players/122481">Mariona Caldentey</a> won the PFA's distinction for the best women's player in the 2024-25 season. Twenty-one-year-old Canadian forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wwcup/players/199855" href="https://thescore.com/wwcup/players/199855">Olivia Smith</a>, who recently joined Arsenal in a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3310264" href="https://thescore.com/news/3310264">record-breaking transfer</a>, became the first overseas recipient of the PFA Young Player of the Year award.</p><p>Liverpool earned four selections and Arsenal claimed three in the 2024-25 season's Premier League Team of the Year. In the women's lineup, European champions Arsenal had the most representatives with four.</p><p><strong>PFA Premier League Team of the Year</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The PFA Premier League Team of the Year - voted for by the players. 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PFAawards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PFAawards</a> <a href="https://t.co/j85lXebf9d">pic.twitter.com/j85lXebf9d</a></p>— PFA (@PFA) <a href="https://twitter.com/PFA/status/1957885902342013093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>PFA Women's Super League Team of the Year</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The PFA <a href="https://twitter.com/BarclaysWSL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BarclaysWSL</a> Team of the Year - voted for by the players. 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PFAawards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PFAawards</a> <a href="https://t.co/IUyQqywz1U">pic.twitter.com/IUyQqywz1U</a></p>— PFA (@PFA) <a href="https://twitter.com/PFA/status/1957884527373676960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Ex-England manager Gareth Southgate and Emma Hayes, the legendary Chelsea boss now in charge of the United States women's national team, picked up PFA Merit Awards for their contributions to the country's game.</p>

Liverpool's Egyptian striker Mohamed Salah poses with the Men's PFA Players' Player of the Year award backstage during the 2024-2025 Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) awards, at the Opera House in Manchester, northern England, on August 19, 2025.

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