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‘I didn’t like it’ – Declan Rice warns Arsenal fans Noni Madueke will ‘shock’ you as he disagrees with transfer reaction

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‘I didn’t like it’ – Declan Rice warns Arsenal fans Noni Madueke will ‘shock’ you as he disagrees with transfer reaction

Declan Rice has stepped up to defend Noni Madueke amid growing skepticism surrounding his move to Arsenal, insisting that the winger is ready to make a serious impact.

Madueke’s £52 million transfer from Chelsea sparked backlash online, with thousands of fans signing a petition opposing his signing. But Rice believes his new teammate will silence those critics with his energy, skill, and determination.

Though Madueke is not part of Arsenal’s pre-season trip to Singapore and Hong Kong—having just returned from duty with Chelsea at the Club World Cup—he is expected to debut in the Emirates Cup next month.

Reacting to the online negativity, Rice expressed his disapproval and praised Madueke’s resilience. He noted that the winger is focused and driven to prove his worth this season, describing him as a strong personality with an intense hunger to succeed. According to Rice, Madueke has a rare attacking instinct—the kind of player who naturally looks to take on defenders, which is exactly what Arsenal needs to add spark and variety up front.

Rice acknowledged that last season, Arsenal struggled with depth due to injuries. He sees Madueke’s arrival as a game-changer that will allow for more rotation and flexibility across competitions.

He also shared his excitement, saying that people will be surprised by what Madueke brings to the pitch. The two players connected during England camps, having first crossed paths while representing West Ham and Chelsea respectively.

Rice spoke highly of Madueke’s character off the pitch as well. He was impressed by his vibrant personality and how seriously he takes his craft—something many might not realize about him. Describing him as someone who lifts the mood in the dressing room, Rice added that Madueke has high standards and a relentless drive on the training ground. From his positive, direct style of play to his dedication, Rice is convinced his arrival is a major boost for the team.

When Madueke joined Arsenal, he was seen reading a heartfelt welcome note from Rice. In the letter, Rice congratulated him on the move, calling it a statement signing and expressing confidence in his potential. He also assured Madueke of the squad’s support and encouraged him to reach out if he needed anything.

Rice said he was eager to be part of the welcoming gesture and was glad Madueke appreciated the message. He recalled how excited the winger was when he signed, bringing several people with him to celebrate the moment. That passion, Rice said, shows exactly the kind of mindset the team values.

Internally, both players and staff have been discussing the quality Madueke brings. There’s a shared sense of anticipation around what he can add to the squad.

On a personal note, Rice also reflected on his own ambitions. After a challenging start to the previous season—caused by fatigue from a short break following England’s Euro 2024 final and playing through a toe injury—he now feels rejuvenated. He looked sharp in Arsenal’s recent win over AC Milan, playing a solid 66 minutes.

Rice, who scored seven goals across competitions in 2025, emphasized how important this full pre-season and extended rest have been. He admitted he didn’t meet his own standards early last season, citing mental and physical exhaustion. But now, he’s setting higher goals: more goals, more assists, and greater consistency throughout the entire campaign.

He made it clear that he wants to contribute at the highest level all season long—not just in short bursts. And with Mikel Arteta pushing him to raise his game, Rice is determined to elevate his performance and be among the best.

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FIFA finally sanctions Israel and sounds message for peace: Here’s why

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FIFA finally sanctions Israel and sounds message for peace: Here's why

FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has taken action against the Israel Football Association (IFA) after finding breaches of its rules relating to offensive conduct, fair play, and incidents involving discrimination and racist behavior.

As part of the ruling, the IFA has been fined CHF 150,000 (around €165,000), with conditions attached. The federation is required to roll out preventive measures, including displaying a clear anti-discrimination message at its next three home matches in FIFA competitions. The message, which promotes unity and rejects discrimination, must appear alongside the federation’s emblem, with its design, size, and placement submitted to FIFA for approval at least 15 days before each fixture.

Beyond matchday requirements, the IFA must also take longer-term action. Within 60 days, it is expected to allocate one-third of the fine toward a detailed anti-discrimination initiative. This program is set to include structural improvements, defined protocols, monitoring systems, and educational campaigns across stadiums and official platforms throughout an entire season, all subject to FIFA’s approval. The remaining portion of the fine must be settled within 30 days. FIFA has also issued a formal warning regarding future conduct, with the option for the IFA to appeal the decision.

In relation to a separate complaint raised by the Palestinian Football Association concerning teams based in disputed territories, FIFA chose not to impose any measures. The governing body pointed to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the legal status of the West Bank under international law, but emphasized its willingness to encourage dialogue and mediation between both sides.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino reiterated the organization’s stance on the role of football during periods of political tension, stressing that while the sport cannot solve global conflicts, it can still play a part in bringing people together and fostering understanding through competitions like the World Cup.

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New angle emerges of massive brawl in Brazil: Brutal close-range fight footage (VIDEO)

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New angle emerges of massive brawl in Brazil: Brutal close-range fight footage

The Minas Gerais state championship final between Cruzeiro Esporte Clube and Clube Atlético Mineiro ended in chaos on Sunday, with a massive on-field brawl. Cruzeiro secured a 1-0 victory, but the match will be remembered for the violent fallout.

Reports from Brazilian media indicate that the referee issued an additional 23 red cards following the melee.

The incident that sparked the conflict occurred in the 97th minute inside Atletico’s penalty area after a collision between Christian of Cruzeiro and home goalkeeper Everson. Everson reacted aggressively, first pushing Christian and then pinning him to the ground with both knees.

Close-range footage of the altercation later surfaced online, showing the intensity of the clash and adding fuel to an already controversial derby.

This extraordinary sequence will likely result in disciplinary action from the league and raises questions about player conduct in high-stakes matches.

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Michael Carrick blow as ‘prominent’ target on Man Utd’s managerial shortlist is ‘keen’ on Old Trafford job

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Michael Carrick blow as ‘prominent’ target on Man Utd’s managerial shortlist is ‘keen’ on Old Trafford job

Former Brighton & Hove Albion FC boss Roberto De Zerbi is reportedly “keen” on becoming the next manager of Manchester United FC.

The 46-year-old is currently without a club after leaving Olympique de Marseille by mutual agreement last month. Both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur FC have been linked with a summer move for the Italian as they search for a permanent head coach.

According to reports from The Telegraph, De Zerbi would favour the Old Trafford role if given the choice.

His potential appointment could be a setback for interim United boss Michael Carrick, who has largely impressed since taking charge in January.

Carrick suffered his first defeat on Wednesday as United lost to Newcastle United FC, with goals from Anthony Gordon and William Osula sealing the result.

Despite that setback, several United players are believed to support Carrick being given the role permanently. Senior figures such as Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw are reportedly impressed by his tactical ideas and deep understanding of the game.

United’s hierarchy have yet to decide whether to stick with the former England international or appoint a new manager. Other names linked with the role include Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto Martínez.

De Zerbi has also been mentioned as a potential candidate at Tottenham. Spurs currently sit 16th in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation zone.

The club dismissed former head coach Thomas Frank last month and appointed Igor Tudor as interim manager.

Tudor has yet to register a win, but after a recent defeat to Crystal Palace FC he insisted the team is still moving in the right direction.

“Unfortunately this is the moment we pay for everything. One red card changes everything,” Tudor said.

“Maybe it will sound strange, but I believe more after this game than before. I saw something. I need to choose the right players because the boat is going in the direction that I want it to go.

“When the injured players return, I’m sure we will have a good team and the victories will come. It’s not easy to accept where we are now, but it is how it is.”

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