Football
“It was an honor” – Ronaldinho Shares Heartfelt Tribute to Andres Iniesta as the Barcelona legend Retires
Football icon Ronaldinho has paid a heartfelt tribute to his former Barcelona teammate Andrés Iniesta, following the Spanish midfielder’s retirement from professional football.
The two legends shared unforgettable moments at Barcelona, where they helped usher in one of the most successful eras in the club’s storied history.
In an emotional Instagram post, Ronaldinho praised Iniesta’s grace and exceptional abilities on the pitch, expressing his admiration for the man he once played alongside.
Ronaldinho wrote:
“Today we celebrate your career. We’ll miss your elegance and quality on the field. It was an honor to play with you! Hope to see you soon, brother.”
Iniesta, regarded as one of the best midfielders ever, enjoyed an illustrious career. His time at Barcelona was marked by immense success, including nine La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League trophies.
Known for his vision, composure, and incredible skill, Iniesta played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s dominance, cementing his legacy as one of Spanish football’s most decorated players.
After leaving Barcelona in 2018, Iniesta continued his career in Japan with Vissel Kobe, before finishing his playing days at the UAE’s Emirates Club.
His retirement has prompted an outpouring of tributes from former teammates, coaches, and fans, all highlighting his profound impact on the football world.
Football
Cristiano Ronaldo Reacts to Lionel Messi Chants from Al-Hilal Fans
Cristiano Ronaldo found himself at the center of some playful teasing from opposing fans during Al-Nassr’s match against Al Hilal on Friday.
The 39-year-old has been in impressive form in the Saudi Pro League, scoring nine goals across competitions for Al-Nassr this season.
Despite his strong performance, Ronaldo has frequently been met with chants of “Lionel Messi” from rival fans.
Earlier in the year, after Al-Nassr’s victory over Al-Shabab, Ronaldo responded to similar taunts with a controversial gesture, which led to a one-match suspension and a fine of 10,000 riyals ($2,081).
This time, however, Ronaldo took the chants in stride, giving fans a cheeky thumbs-up during the 1-1 draw.
While the crowd’s taunts didn’t faze him, Ronaldo did express frustration with the officiating at Al-Awwal Park.
After Talisca gave Al-Nassr an early lead, the game turned physical, with Ronaldo, Marcelo Brozovic, and Sadio Mane all receiving yellow cards in the first half.
Frustrated by the perceived disparity in calls, Ronaldo approached referee Felix Zwayer at halftime, voicing his concern: “We receive three yellow cards. Al Hilal have zero. Be fair for both teams!”
Al-Nassr’s lead slipped in the final moments as Sergej Milinkovic-Savic scored an equalizer for Al Hilal, salvaging a point for the visitors.
Following the match, Ronaldo took to social media, stating, “The battle is far from over. Thank you all for the support today!” The draw extended Al-Nassr’s unbeaten start to the season, though they still sit six points behind league leaders Al Hilal after four draws in their first nine games.
EPL
Ruben Amorim’s Last Old Trafford Match Shows Exactly What Man Utd Are Missing
Ruben Amorim’s last visit to Old Trafford with Braga is a stark reminder of the tenacity Manchester United has been missing.
Now, as Erik ten Hag’s tenure comes to an end, United has appointed Amorim as the club’s new manager, hoping he will inject the fighting spirit his Sporting CP side has exemplified, winning two league titles and three domestic cups.
The Red Devils’ lack of resilience this season has been evident, particularly in disheartening 3-0 defeats to Liverpool and Tottenham.
However, Amorim’s 2012 visit to Old Trafford with Braga during the Champions League shows a different type of United—a team that never shied away from a comeback.
In that memorable match, Amorim’s Braga stunned the home crowd, with Brazilian striker Alan scoring twice within the first 20 minutes to give Braga a 2-0 lead. But under Sir Alex Ferguson, United’s resilience was legendary.
Javier Hernandez halved the deficit just five minutes later, Jonny Evans scored an equalizer in the 62nd minute, and ‘Chicharito’ completed the comeback with a winning goal 15 minutes before the final whistle.
The last time United staged a similar comeback was in December 2023, when Rasmus Hojlund’s late goal sealed a 3-2 Boxing Day victory over Aston Villa. Unfortunately, these moments have been rare in recent years.
Ten Hag’s response to United’s loss against Tottenham earlier this season only underscored the team’s lack of self-belief. Reflecting on that game, he said, “I ignore that game against Spurs because we were down to 10, and the red card was later overturned.
Everyone agreed it wasn’t the right decision; it was an injustice to assess the team on that performance.”
If Ten Hag lacked confidence in the team’s ability to fight back, it’s no wonder the players have struggled with resilience. Now, with Amorim’s arrival, there’s hope that he can inspire a revival, driving United to display the grit and determination that once defined the club.
EPL
David de Gea Sends Another Message to Erik ten Hag After Man Utd Sacking
David de Gea continues to prove former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag wrong, earning the Man of the Match award in Fiorentina’s 1-0 win over Genoa.
Since signing with Fiorentina on a one-year contract over the summer, De Gea has shown he still has what it takes after spending 14 months away from professional football.
United released him in 2023 despite his Golden Glove win, choosing to replace him with Andre Onana to align with Ten Hag’s focus on ball-playing ability from the back.
At the time of his departure, De Gea had reportedly agreed to a contract extension before United withdrew the offer.
Following Ten Hag’s sacking this week, De Gea shared his reaction with a simple “pinched fingers” emoji, a symbol often used in Italy to convey frustration or disbelief.
In Thursday’s match, the 33-year-old delivered several critical saves, securing a clean sheet and lifting Fiorentina to fourth in Serie A.
Fiorentina manager Raffaele Palladino praised the victory: “It was a hard-fought, gritty win in a challenging environment. These types of victories build character and give us confidence.”
Palladino has previously described De Gea as “world-class,” applauding him for saving two penalties in Fiorentina’s 2-1 win over AC Milan earlier this month.
“He’s a true champion and role model,” Palladino said. “Every day, we’re grateful to have such a top goalkeeper.”
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