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Joachim Low reveals why he’s surprised Florian Wirtz is set to join Liverpool

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Joachim Low, the former Germany national team coach, has admitted he’s surprised by Florian Wirtz’s likely move to Liverpool, especially given the strong ties the midfielder shares with Xabi Alonso, now at Real Madrid.

Wirtz has been heavily linked with a transfer to Anfield this summer, despite Bayer Leverkusen rejecting Liverpool’s opening offer of approximately £109 million. Liverpool are currently leading the race for the 22-year-old, fending off interest from European heavyweights like Bayern Munich and Manchester City.

The Premier League champions are reportedly willing to increase their bid to around £126 million in order to finalize the signing, and some reports suggest Wirtz has already begun searching for property in northwest England.

If the deal goes through, Wirtz would become the second player from Bayer Leverkusen to join Liverpool this transfer window, following Jeremie Frimpong’s recent arrival.

Joachim Low, who gave Wirtz his first international call-up at just 17, believes the move to the Premier League represents a significant step forward for the young playmaker.

Speaking to Bild, Low noted that moving to England means adjusting to a different rhythm and style of football, but he remains confident in Wirtz’s ability to adapt quickly and thrive at the highest level.

Low expressed some surprise that Wirtz didn’t opt to follow Alonso to Real Madrid, given the close relationship the two developed at Leverkusen. He remarked that the midfielder has grown immensely under Alonso’s guidance and that such trust is crucial for a young player.

Still, Low is confident Wirtz has the talent and mentality to succeed no matter where he plays, praising the German international’s natural flair and unteachable instincts on the pitch. He highlighted Wirtz’s combination of technical ability, intelligence, and relentless off-the-ball movement as key traits that set him apart.

Bayern Munich, who once appeared to be in pole position to sign Wirtz, reportedly spoke with him during their Bundesliga title celebrations. However, they now seem resigned to losing the battle for his signature to Liverpool.

Low reflected that a move to Bayern would have also made sense, especially considering Wirtz’s past success alongside Jamal Musiala in the German national team. He noted that the two attacking midfielders played a significant role in rejuvenating the squad’s style and competitiveness, helping Germany become serious contenders for silverware once again.

Wirtz’s rise to prominence has been swift and steady. Low, who was at the helm when Wirtz made his senior debut, saw signs early on that the youngster was destined for greatness. He spoke highly of Wirtz’s vision, spatial awareness, and work ethic, particularly his ability to make deep, unpredictable runs without the ball.

According to Low, these qualities make Wirtz one of the most complete young talents in world football today, and the upcoming move to Liverpool could be the stage where he truly blossoms into a global star.

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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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