Football
Premier League boss vows to help Athletic Bilbao beat Man Utd in Europa League
AFC Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has pledged his support to former club Athletic Bilbao as they prepare to face Manchester United in the Europa League semi-finals.
The Spanish side will host United in the first leg at San Mames, aiming to gain an edge in the tie and move one step closer to European glory.
Despite United’s turbulent domestic season, they remain hopeful that European success could redeem their campaign.
Iraola, who spent the majority of his playing career at Athletic Bilbao, revealed his intention to speak with current manager Ernesto Valverde to provide insights into United’s tactics.
Having already guided Bournemouth to a 3-0 victory at Old Trafford earlier this season and a 1-1 draw in the recent encounter at the Vitality Stadium, Iraola possesses valuable knowledge of the Premier League giants.
When asked about the possibility of contacting Valverde for tactical discussions ahead of the clash, Iraola responded affirmatively, stating that their strong personal relationship makes it likely.
The Basque coach played more than 500 games for the club and regards Valverde as one of the most influential figures in his football journey.
He expressed admiration for his former mentor, calling him the most special coach he ever had and wishing him success in the tournament.
Iraola also made it clear that his support for Athletic Club remains strong, expressing hope that they can go all the way and lift the Europa League trophy. He fondly recalled Bilbao’s 2012 victory over United, a career highlight for him as captain during their famous win in that edition of the competition.
In a separate development, Bournemouth have filed an appeal with the Premier League following the red card shown to striker Evanilson during the weekend’s draw with United. The Brazilian was dismissed in the 70th minute after a challenge on Noussair Mazraoui, a decision that left Iraola visibly frustrated.
He argued that Evanilson had slipped during the incident and did not make dangerous contact, stressing that such accidents should not result in suspensions.
Iraola pointed out the harsh consequences of the decision, noting that the forward now faces a three-match ban. He also highlighted a first-half incident where Casemiro appeared to catch Evanilson in the chest, which went unpunished.
The Bournemouth boss criticized the use of VAR, suggesting that only the worst angle was reviewed, leading to an unfair outcome.
As Bournemouth focus on their appeal, Iraola will also keep a close eye on his beloved Athletic Club, hoping his advice can help them overcome Manchester United and move a step closer to European triumph.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly growing concerned that Ruben Amorim might walk away from Manchester United.
After Erik ten Hag’s dismissal in October 2024 following a 2-1 loss to West Ham, United moved swiftly to bring in Amorim on the back of his success at Sporting CP.
Yet translating his tactics at Old Trafford has proven challenging, with the Red Devils languishing in 16th place in the Premier League.
Despite domestic struggles, United have excelled in Europe and stand one win away from securing Champions League football by beating Tottenham Hotspur in Wednesday’s Europa League final.
Amorim himself hinted at the possibility of an early exit if results don’t improve, saying, “It’s a decisive moment in the history of the club. We need to be really strong in the summer and to be brave because we will not have a next season like this. If we start like this, if the feeling is still here, we should give the space to different people.”
According to The Sun, Ratcliffe—United’s minority owner and INEOS chairman—“remains concerned” that Amorim may decide “enough is enough after a campaign of chaos.”
The report suggests Ratcliffe views the 40-year-old Portuguese as somewhat of a “loose cannon” and wants reassurance that Amorim will honour the final two years of his contract rather than depart and leave the club in disarray.
Ahead of the crucial final, Amorim appeared undeterred, insisting on his belief in the squad’s readiness. “I am really confident. I feel that my players are ready for this game. They know what it means, not just for us but for our fans and for the club.
After this season, we are ready to fight for the one thing that can help us remember this season in a different way.
So I am really confident.” With both Ratcliffe’s concerns and Amorim’s resolve laid bare, all eyes will be on Wembley to see whether the Europa League final serves as a turning point for United’s tumultuous season.
Football
Ex Arsenal star Lacazette’s home burgled while playing final game for Lyon with cash and jewellery stolen
Alexandre Lacazette’s home was targeted by burglars while he was on the pitch for Lyon last night, according to French outlet Le Progrès.
The 33‑year‑old, playing his 391st and final match for his boyhood club, was facing Angers at Groupama Stadium when two intruders are reported to have broken into his residence in Lyon’s fifth arrondissement around 9.30 pm local time.
Once inside, they accessed a safe and made off with jewellery, luxury leather goods and cash, with the stolen haul “claimed to be tens of thousands of pounds.”
Security cameras captured the suspects, and police launched an investigation after the burglary was officially reported at 1.30 am.
Lacazette rose through Lyon’s youth system before joining Arsenal in 2017, then returned to France in 2022.
Manager Paulo Fonseca recently confirmed that Lacazette will depart when his contract expires this summer, as Lyon look to balance the books amid financial concerns.
In recognition of his service, supporters unveiled a giant tifo before kick‑off, and Lacazette honored them by scoring both goals in a 2-0 victory over Angers—his 200th and 201st for the club—securing a sixth‑place finish.
He joins several teammates who have suffered similar crimes in recent seasons, including Georges Mikautadze, who was robbed at gunpoint last December, and Dejan Lovren, who faced an attempted break‑in in October 2023.
Football
Inside Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool ‘leaving party’ as Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk attend
Liverpool recently held a summer celebration to honor Trent Alexander-Arnold as he prepares to leave Anfield after the 2024-25 season. The 26-year-old fullback, who has been with the club since he was just six, confirmed his departure earlier this month.
Despite spending two decades with Liverpool and making over 350 appearances, the news has divided fans—some even booed him during the recent 2-2 draw against Arsenal.
The event, which appeared to take place at Liverpool’s training base in Kirkby, featured teammates, family, and festive touches including food vendors, games, and a “Summer of 66” theme—referencing Alexander-Arnold’s shirt number.
TikTok user Nevada Linton shared footage from the event with a heartfelt message encouraging the defender to chase his dreams.
Key players including Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson, Darwin Nunez, Diogo Jota, and Luiz Diaz were spotted enjoying the gathering.
The party served as an internal gesture of appreciation despite the tension from parts of the fanbase.
Throughout the season, Liverpool pushed to secure contract extensions for Alexander-Arnold, Salah, and Van Dijk. While the latter two signed new deals, Alexander-Arnold opted to move on, with Real Madrid widely expected to be his next destination.
His farewell statement emphasized how difficult the decision had been, citing the need to step outside his comfort zone for new personal and professional challenges.
The backlash from some supporters has sparked reactions from fellow players. Salah voiced disappointment over the treatment Alexander-Arnold received, saying fans should recognize the defender’s loyalty and contributions over the years.
Van Dijk echoed the sentiment, stating that the team aims to win their final matches and celebrate together, including honoring Alexander-Arnold’s legacy.
Liverpool’s final fixtures of the season include a clash with Brighton and a home finale against Crystal Palace at Anfield, where the hope remains for a more appreciative farewell from the stands.
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