Football

In a thrilling pre-season friendly, Celtic emerged victorious over Manchester City with a 4-3 scoreline at the University of North Carolina's Kenan Memorial Stadium. Nicolas Kuhn's brace and Luis Palma's decisive goal in the 68th minute proved crucial for the Scottish champions.Manchester City, led by Erling Haaland wearing the captain's armband for the first time, showed signs of their attacking prowess. Haaland equalized in the 57th minute, but Celtic's resilience shone through as Palma capitalized on a breakaway to secure the win.The match served as a warm-up for both teams ahead of the upcoming 2024-25 season. Celtic, seeking their fourth consecutive Scottish Premiership title, fielded a strong lineup featuring debutant goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel. Manchester City, the reigning English Premier League champions, used the opportunity to assess their younger talent.Kuhn opened the scoring for Celtic in the 13th minute, showcasing his pace and finishing ability. Schmeichel made several impressive saves to deny Haaland, but City equalized through Oscar Bobb's deflected shot in the 33rd minute. Kuhn restored Celtic's lead three minutes later, curling a beautiful shot into the top corner.Celtic extended their advantage to 3-1 just before halftime when Kyogo Furuhashi converted a perfect pass from Kuhn. However, City responded swiftly after the break, with Maximo Perrone scoring within seconds of coming on as a substitute. Haaland's header in the 57th minute brought City level, but Palma's breakaway goal proved decisive.Despite City's late push, Celtic held on for the victory. The match provided valuable insights for both managers as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Gareth Southgate faces a dilemma as he attempts to unlock the potential of Phil Foden at international level. Despite his exceptional form for Manchester City, Foden has struggled to replicate his brilliance for England.In England's 1-0 victory over Serbia, Foden's performance was underwhelming. The 24-year-old, who was named Premier League Player of the Year, appeared uncomfortable on the left wing, a position he is not accustomed to playing.Southgate's decision to deploy Jude Bellingham as the number 10 and Bukayo Saka on the right flank has pushed Foden out wide. However, Foden's strengths lie in the central attacking role, where he can dictate the tempo and create chances.Former England defender Micah Richards believes Southgate is not utilizing Foden's talents effectively. "When you have an extreme talent like Phil Foden, his best work has been in the middle of the pitch," Richards said.Rio Ferdinand suggests that Bellingham's assertive nature may be limiting Foden's influence. "Jude Bellingham has come into this team and his body language has said to everyone 'give me the ball or I will go nuts'," Ferdinand said.Former Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas urges Foden to take responsibility for his international struggles. "It's about if you want the ball enough to make the difference. Do you enjoy getting the ball under pressure?" Fabregas said.Southgate must find a solution to the Foden conundrum. Switching Bellingham to central midfield and giving Foden the number 10 role could be a viable option. Alternatively, Southgate could consider using Cole Palmer or Anthony Gordon on the left wing, allowing Foden to play in his preferred position.Until Southgate finds a way to harness Foden's talent, England will continue to miss out on the full potential of one of their most gifted players.

Manchester City to Kick Off Premier League Title Defense at ChelseaThe Premier League has released its fixture list for the upcoming season, with defending champions Manchester City set to begin their title defense away to Chelsea on August 18. The match will mark a reunion between Pep Guardiola and his former assistant Enzo Maresca, who was recently appointed Chelsea boss.FA Cup winners Manchester United will host the opening game of the campaign when Fulham visit Old Trafford on August 16. Newly promoted Ipswich, back in the Premier League for the first time in 22 years, will welcome Liverpool's new manager Arne Slot on August 17.Leicester, back in the top flight after one season in the Championship, will host Tottenham on August 19. Brighton's new manager Fabian Hurzeler will begin his reign away to Everton, while West Ham's new boss Julen Lopetegui will welcome Aston Villa.Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, who finished as runners-up behind City for a second straight season, will host Wolves.Other notable fixtures include:* Liverpool vs. Manchester United (August 26)* Manchester City vs. Arsenal (September 16)* Chelsea vs. Manchester United (October 22)* Arsenal vs. Manchester City (April 29)The Premier League season will conclude on May 28, 2024.

Chelsea have appointed Enzo Maresca as their new head coach, according to British media reports. The Italian joins the Blues on a five-year contract, with an option for a further year. This move is designed to provide stability after two years of upheaval under the new regime led by US investors Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly.Maresca, 44, was Pep Guardiola's assistant at Manchester City before taking over as Leicester's manager last year. He guided the Foxes to an immediate return to the Premier League after their relegation 12 months ago. His style of football, which emphasizes possession and attacking play, is said to have impressed Chelsea chiefs.Chelsea were in search of a new manager after parting ways with Mauricio Pochettino. The Argentine spent just one season at Stamford Bridge, with Brentford's Thomas Frank and Kieran McKenna also linked with the vacancy.Pochettino's departure came after Chelsea finished sixth in the Premier League, qualifying for the Europa Conference League but missing out on Champions League qualification and a trophy. They lost the League Cup final to Liverpool and the FA Cup semi-final to Manchester City.However, there were signs of progress under Pochettino, particularly during a run of five consecutive wins to end the campaign. This ensured Chelsea's participation in European competition next season.Maresca's appointment is seen as a long-term investment by Chelsea. The club hopes that he can build on the foundations laid by Pochettino and establish a consistent winning culture at Stamford Bridge.

Pep Guardiola's illustrious tenure at Manchester City is nearing its end, with the legendary manager expected to depart next season. Since his arrival in 2016, Guardiola has transformed City into a European powerhouse, guiding them to six Premier League titles in the past seven seasons. This remarkable achievement includes an unprecedented four consecutive league triumphs, a feat no other club has accomplished.Guardiola's departure is anticipated as his current contract expires at the end of the 2024-2025 season. Despite City's desire to extend his stay, the report suggests that Guardiola is likely to seek a new challenge. The club is already initiating succession planning following their FA Cup final defeat to Manchester United.Guardiola has hinted at his impending departure, stating that he is "closer to leaving than staying." However, he has assured City fans that he will remain at the helm for the upcoming season. Replacing Guardiola will be a daunting task for City, given his profound impact on the club's legacy. Under his guidance, City secured their maiden UEFA Champions League title last season.Despite clinching their fourth consecutive Premier League title with a 3-1 victory over West Ham on the final matchday, City's season ended on a sour note with their FA Cup final loss. Guardiola has vowed that the team will bounce back next season, promising to reclaim the FA Cup.The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager has committed to seeing out his contract next season, but his long-term future remains uncertain. Guardiola's departure would mark the end of an era for Manchester City, as they bid farewell to one of the most successful managers in their history.

Manchester United pulled off a stunning upset in the FA Cup final, defeating Manchester City 2-1 to claim their 13th title. The victory was a testament to the resilience and determination of a team that had endured a disappointing Premier League campaign.With speculation swirling about the future of manager Erik Ten Hag, United produced a performance that defied expectations. Teenagers Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo scored first-half goals to give United a commanding lead. City, who were bidding to become the first club to win the double in successive seasons, were left stunned.Despite a second-half siege from City, United held on for a famous victory. Jeremy Doku's late goal set up a nervy finale, but United's defense stood firm to secure the trophy.The victory was a major boost for Ten Hag, who had faced intense scrutiny in recent weeks. It also provided a glimmer of hope for United fans, who have endured a difficult season.Garnacho, who became the first Argentine to score in the Cup final since Ricky Villa for Tottenham Hotspur in 1981, said: "Incredible. Nobody believed in us. But we're a team, all together. We fought, the game of our lives."The build-up to the final had been dominated by talk of the chasm between the two Manchester clubs. City had won an unprecedented fourth successive English title, while United were suffering their worst Premier League campaign.However, on the day, United showed that they were not ready to be written off. They played with passion and determination, and they deserved their victory.The victory was a major boost for Ten Hag, who had faced intense scrutiny in recent weeks. It also provided a glimmer of hope for United fans, who have endured a difficult season.

Erik ten Hag's tactical brilliance led Manchester United to a stunning 2-1 victory over Manchester City in the FA Cup final, potentially saving his job and sparking comparisons to legendary manager Alex Ferguson.Despite a turbulent season, Ten Hag's team executed a masterclass, neutralizing Pep Guardiola's City side with a deep defensive block and clinical counterattacks. Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo scored first-half goals to put United in control.City's double bid was shattered as they struggled to break down United's resolute defense. Jeremy Doku's late strike provided a glimmer of hope, but it was too little, too late.Ten Hag's triumph echoes Ferguson's 1990 FA Cup win against Crystal Palace, which kick-started his remarkable reign. United shareholder Jim Ratcliffe, who has been linked with potential replacements, witnessed the Dutchman's triumph.Despite finishing eighth in the Premier League and crashing out of the Champions League, Ten Hag has now won two trophies in three cup final appearances. He believes injuries were the root of United's problems and points to his success in cup competitions as proof of his capabilities.United's victory also secures Europa League qualification, avoiding a season without European action. City, on the other hand, looked hungover after their Premier League title celebrations and failed to match their usual intensity.Ten Hag's tactical masterclass has given United fans hope for the future. His ability to motivate his team and outsmart Guardiola has earned him a stay of execution and potentially a longer tenure at Old Trafford.

Manchester City and Manchester United, two of England's most storied clubs, will clash in the highly anticipated FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, May 25. The match promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with both teams eager to add another trophy to their illustrious histories.Manchester City, the reigning Premier League champions, are the clear favorites heading into the final. Pep Guardiola's side has been in scintillating form this season, winning the league title with a record-breaking 100 points. They are also looking to become the first team to win the league and FA Cup in successive seasons since Arsenal in 2002.Manchester United, on the other hand, have endured a disappointing campaign, finishing eighth in the Premier League. However, they have shown signs of improvement under interim manager Ralf Rangnick and will be determined to end the season on a high note.The two Manchester rivals have a long and storied history, with their matches often referred to as the "Manchester Derby." City has had the upper hand in recent years, winning six of their past seven meetings in all competitions.The FA Cup Final is one of the most prestigious events in English football, and both teams will be desperate to lift the trophy. City will be looking to continue their dominance, while United will be hoping to salvage something from a disappointing season.The match will be played at Wembley Stadium in London, which has a capacity of over 90,000. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM IST, and the match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag faces a pivotal moment in his tenure as he aims to salvage his job by thwarting Manchester City's historic bid in the FA Cup final on Saturday. The Wembley showdown marks the second consecutive Manchester derby in the showpiece event, with City triumphing 2-1 last year en route to an unprecedented treble.Despite United's League Cup triumph earlier this season, their turbulent campaign has left Ten Hag's future in jeopardy. The Red Devils finished eighth in the Premier League, their lowest final position since 1990, and failed to progress beyond the Champions League group stage. Ten Hag has attributed their struggles to injuries, but his reported clashes with Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford have raised concerns about squad harmony.United's path to the FA Cup final was far from convincing, as they squandered a three-goal lead and survived a penalty shootout against second-tier Coventry in the semi-final. The erratic nature of Ten Hag's team has fueled speculation about his potential replacement, with Gareth Southgate, Mauricio Pochettino, and Kieran McKenna among those linked with the Old Trafford job.Ten Hag's hopes of remaining at United hinge on spoiling City's bid to become the first English club to win both the Premier League and FA Cup two years in a row. "I came here to win trophies," Ten Hag declared. "I'm just focusing on the job I have to do. That is first to win the game on Saturday and then keep going in the project."United, who have lost six of the past seven Manchester derbies, must lift the Cup for the first time in eight years to avoid their first season without European action since 2014/15. Goalkeeper Andre Onana, despite a challenging debut campaign, is determined to repay the fans' support with victory at Wembley.City's dominance in the Premier League has extended to six titles in seven years, solidifying their status as one of the greatest English teams of all time. Pep Guardiola's men pipped Arsenal by two points after winning their last nine league games, setting the stage for more history at Wembley.City captain Kyle Walker attributes their success to Guardiola's relentless drive and intensity. "He's addicted to winning. He is addicted and it rubs off on us," Walker said. Playmaker Bernardo Silva believes City thrive under pressure, stating, "Sometimes at the beginning of the season when we don't have that much pressure, the team relaxes when it shouldn't and at the end of the season we always compensate for it."