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Tag: Cristiano Ronaldo

  • Ballon d’Or 2023: Messi and Aitana Bonmati Leading the Way

    Ballon d’Or 2023: Messi and Aitana Bonmati Leading the Way

    By Milcah Tanimu

    Welcome to our live coverage of the Ballon d’Or 2023 awards ceremony, where Lionel Messi and Aitana Bonmati are the frontrunners for the top honors. TNT Sports will be broadcasting the 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony starting at 18:00 UK time, so stay tuned for the free live stream and updates on all the significant moments as prominent figures from the world of sports come together.

    **Joe Cole’s Take on Messi’s Ballon d’Or Chances**

    Former footballer Joe Cole believes that Lionel Messi’s World Cup triumph makes him the standout candidate to win the Ballon d’Or. Cole’s sentiment is shared by Joleon Lescott, who thinks Erling Haaland should take home the award. Cole said, “What Messi did at the World Cup and it looks like FIFA, because of the change of the dates, are putting that in this section. I just think that was just outstanding, almost spiritual.”

    **Manchester City’s Dominance Reflected at Ballon d’Or**

    Manchester City’s historic treble campaign in the UEFA Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup has been mirrored with six players nominated for the men’s Ballon d’Or. This includes stars like Josko Gvardiol, Kevin de Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, Erling Haaland, Ruben Dias, and Julian Alvarez.

    **British Players Who Have Won the Ballon d’Or**

    A brief look at the history of the Ballon d’Or reveals that British players have had their moments of glory. Stanley Matthews, Denis Law, Bobby Charlton, Kevin Keegan, Michael Owen, and the last British winner so far, Michael Owen, have all claimed the coveted award.

    **Pep Guardiola’s Perspective**

    Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, who has coached both Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland, playfully suggested that Messi should have his Ballon d’Or, while also acknowledging Haaland as a worthy contender. Haaland’s impressive performance last season with 52 goals across all competitions adds another layer of intrigue to this year’s award.

    **Cristiano Ronaldo’s Night Out at Boxing**

    Although Cristiano Ronaldo is not in the running for a sixth Ballon d’Or, he enjoyed an evening at heavyweight boxing in Riyadh. Ronaldo, who currently represents Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, has been prolific on the field, scoring 25 goals in 26 games for his team.

    **Bookmakers’ Odds**

    Lionel Messi is the strong favorite to win the Ballon d’Or for a record eighth time, given his World Cup victory in December. The odds are heavily in his favor. Messi has previously won the award in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, and 2021.

    **Nominees for Ballon d’Or Awards**

    The article provides a comprehensive list of nominees for both the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or awards, as well as the Kopa Trophy and Yachine Trophy nominees.

    **How to Watch Ballon d’Or 2023**

    The article includes details on how to watch the 2023 Ballon d’Or, including live streaming on TNT Sports and discovery+.

    **Key Timings**

    The red carpet arrivals for the Ballon d’Or will begin at 18:00 UK time, with the main ceremony commencing at 19:45 and scheduled to end at 21:30. The article also highlights other categories and awards to be presented during the ceremony.

  • Napoli Turns Down Al-Hilal’s €130 Million Offer for Victor Osimhen

    Napoli Turns Down Al-Hilal’s €130 Million Offer for Victor Osimhen

    By Daniel Edu

    Saudi Pro League club, Al-Hilal, made an ambitious bid of €130 million to acquire Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from Italian Serie A champions, Napoli. However, Napoli swiftly rejected the offer, indicating their intention to keep the 24-year-old forward and value him at no less than €200 million.

    Reports suggest that Al-Hilal, backed by the multi-billion-dollar royal wealth fund PIF, sought to convince Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis to sell Osimhen to them after failing to secure the services of Paris Saint Germain’s Kylian Mbappe.

    Osimhen’s outstanding performances played a pivotal role in Napoli’s triumphant Scudetto-winning campaign last season. With 26 goals and five assists in 32 games, the Nigerian striker helped the Italian side secure the Serie A title for the first time in over three decades during the 2022-2023 season.

    His exceptional form earned him the prestigious Golden Boot title and the best striker of the Season award, making him the first African player in Serie A history to achieve such an honor.

    Despite Al-Hilal’s substantial offer, Napoli remains firm in their desire to retain Osimhen and is instead focusing on negotiating a new, long-term contract with him to secure his future at the club. Napoli values the player at over €200 million, reflecting his importance to the team and his potential in the transfer market.

    The Saudi Pro League has witnessed a significant influx of European players this summer, with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo making a move to Al Nassr in December 2022, which may have motivated other elite players to join the league as well.

  • I’ll Never Give Up Playing For My Portugal National Team – Ronaldo

    I’ll Never Give Up Playing For My Portugal National Team – Ronaldo

    Cristiano Ronaldo said on Monday he would “never give up” playing for Portugal as he prepares to make his 200th international appearance against Iceland in Euro 2024 qualifying.

    The 38-year-old set a new men’s international record when he won his 197th cap against Liechtenstein in March.

    “I will never give up coming here (to the Portugal national team), because it’s always a dream,” he told a press conference in Reykjavik ahead of Tuesday’s match.

    “Reaching 200 international matches isn’t for just anyone, it shows the love I have for my country and my team.”

    Ronaldo has scored four goals in three games since Roberto Martinez took over as Portugal coach earlier this year, but failed to find the net in last week’s 3-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina.

    “It would be spectacular to crown my 200th international game with a goal,” added Ronaldo, the all-time men’s record international scorer with 122 goals.

    “I’m not chasing records, they’re chasing me. I’m happy because it’s part of my motivation to continue at the highest level with the team.

    “It’s something I never thought I’d accomplish.”

    Martinez confirmed that the striker, who now plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, would start the game.

    “A player reaching 200 matches, that’s unique,” said the former Belgium boss.

    “It’s a source of pride for Portuguese football.”

    Portugal are already cruising towards a place at next year’s Euro in Germany, sitting top of Group J after scoring 13 goals without reply in three straight wins.

  • Saudi Arabia Bend Marriage Law To Suite Ronaldo, Partner

    Saudi Arabia Bend Marriage Law To Suite Ronaldo, Partner

    Saudi Arabia is reportedly set to bend its marriage law to allow Al Nassr new star signing Cristiano Ronaldo to live with his partner, Georgina Rodriguez.

    Saudi Arabia marriage law forbids couples that are not married from living together.

    However, Spanish news outlet, Sport, revealed that Ronaldo and Rodriguez will be living together in Saudi Arabia and are most likely not going to be punished for breaking the law.

    Ronaldo joined Al Nassr from Manchester United after his contract with the club was terminated by mutual agreement following an explosive interview the Portuguese star had in November with British presenter, Piers Morgan.

    The 37-year-old heavily criticised the management of Man United saying there had been no improvement at the club since Sir Alex Ferguson left. He also lashed United coach Erik ten Hag, saying he had no respect for him.

  • Cristiano Ronaldo Officially Joins for Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr

    Cristiano Ronaldo Officially Joins for Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr

    Cristiano Ronaldo has completed a transfer to Saudi Arabian side, Al-Nassr following his bitter departure from Manchester United.

    The 37-year-old had been without a club since United mutually terminated his contract in November, ending a tumultuous second spell at Old Trafford.

    He was sacked after an explosive and unsanctioned interview with Piers Morgan, in which he criticised manager Erik ten Hag and club owners the Glazers while claiming that he was “betrayed” by the club.

    Now the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has found a new team in Al-Nassr where he is expected to earn around £173million per year in the Middle East.

    Cristiano Ronaldo completes ?173m-a-year transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr (photos)

    A statement from the club on Friday night, December 30 read: “This is more than history in the making.

    “This is a signing that will not only inspire our club to achieve even greater success but inspire our league, our nation and future generations, boys and girls to be the best version of themselves. Welcome, Cristiano, to your new home.”

    Ronaldo added: “Al Nassr’s vision is very inspiring and impressive. I look forward to a different league experience in a different country. I am excited to join my team-mates as soon as possible.”

    Al-Nassr currently sit at the top of the Saudi Pro League, having won seven of their opening 10 matches.

  • Man Utd Issue Statement After Ronaldo’s Interview With Piers Morgan

    Man Utd Issue Statement After Ronaldo’s Interview With Piers Morgan

    Manchester United have issued a statement following their forward Cristiano Ronaldo’s explosive interview with British veteran journalist Piers Morgan.

    Ronaldo recently did an exclusive interview with Morgan and hit out at Manchester United and their manager Erik ten Hag.

    The Portugal captain said Man United had betrayed him and that he does not respect Ten Hag.

    However, reacting to the development, Man United, in a statement via its website on Monday, said: “Manchester United notes the media coverage regarding an interview by Cristiano Ronaldo.

    “The club will consider its response after the full facts have been established.

    “Our focus remains on preparing for the second half of the season and continuing the momentum, belief and togetherness being built among the players, manager, staff, and fans.”

  • Ronaldo To Miss Man Utd Game Against Chelsea

    Ronaldo To Miss Man Utd Game Against Chelsea

    Manchester United have confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo will not be part of their squad for the trip to Chelsea this Sunday.

    This was confirmed in a statement released by the club on Thursday.

    “Cristiano Ronaldo will not be part of the Manchester United squad for this Saturday’s Premier League game against Chelsea.

    “The rest of the squad is fully focused on preparing for that fixture,” the statement read.

    The punishment was imposed by United manager, Erik ten Hag, a day after Ronaldo left Old Trafford early during their 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur.

    The decision has been backed by the club’s hierarchy.

    It is believed Ten Hag would approve Ronaldo leaving in the January window given the 37-year-old’s discontent at being at the club.

  • Cristiano Ronaldo makes History in Football

    Cristiano Ronaldo makes History in Football

    Manchester United forward, Cristiano Ronaldo, on Sunday night, made history after scoring a goal in his side’s Premier League 2-1 win over Everton.

    Man United defeated Everton at Goodison Park, thanks to goals from Ronaldo and Antony.

    Alex Iwobi scored a goal for Frank Lampard’s side against Man United.

    However, Ronaldo’s goal against Everton means the Portugal captain has now become the first player in football history to score 700th club goal of his illustrious career.

    Ronaldo has played for four clubs, Sporting Lisbon, United (twice), Real Madrid and Juventus, during his career so far.

    The 37-year-old scored five goals in 31 appearances for Sporting, 450 in 438 matches for Real and 101 in 134 games for Juventus.

    In his first spell for Man United, Ronaldo netted 118 times in 298 fixtures for the club and in his current second stint, he has scored 26 in 48 matches.

    Meanwhile, on the international stage, Ronaldo has scored a world record 117 goals in 191 international games since making his Portugal debut back in 2003.

  • Cristiano Ronaldo Charged for Breaching of FA Rule

    Cristiano Ronaldo Charged for Breaching of FA Rule

    Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo has been charged with ‘improper and/or violent conduct following the incident where he appeared to knock a mobile phone out of a supporter’s hand.

    The incident happened at Everton’s Goodison Park after Manchester United’s 1-0 defeat last April.

    Footage shared on social media showed the Portugal international appearing to smash a phone out of a young fan’s hand as he left the pitch and headed towards the tunnel.

    Ronaldo was cautioned by police regarding the incident in August and later issued an apology to 14- year-old Jacob Harding on his Instagram account, admitting his emotions after such a damaging result had got the better of him.

    United have announced they will be supporting their player in response to the charge.

    A statement from the FA read: ‘Cristiano Ronaldo has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3 for an incident that took place after Manchester United’s Premier League match against Everton FC on Saturday 9 April 2022.

    ‘It is alleged that the forward’s conduct after the final whistle was improper and/or violent.’

  • Ronaldo Dismisses International Retirement Talk, Plans for Euro 2024

    Ronaldo Dismisses International Retirement Talk, Plans for Euro 2024

    Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed his desire to continue playing international football and hopes to feature at Euro 2024.

    The 37-year-old will captain Portugal at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, which will be his 10th major international tournament. He has earned 189 senior caps and netted 117 goals – making him the highest scorer in men’s international football history.

    The Portuguese Football Federation held their annual Quinas de Ouro awards ceremony on Tuesday night September 20, and Ronaldo picked up an honorary accolade for being his country’s record goal scorer.

    In his acceptance speech, the Manchester United striker insisted that his time with the national team is not yet over.

    ‘I hope to be a part of the Federation for a few more years,’ Ronaldo said. ‘I still feel motivated, my ambition is high. My path in the national team is not over. We have many quality youngsters. I will be at the World Cup and I want to be at the European.’

    ‘I am proud to receive an award of this magnitude. I never thought that one day I could achieve it. I thank everyone who was important in my career. It has been a long road, but I would like to say that my road is not over yet.’

    Ronaldo will be 39 years old by the time Euro 2024 takes place in Germany. Qualifying begins in March 2023.

    Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed his desire to continue playing international football and hopes to feature at Euro 2024.

    The 37-year-old will captain Portugal at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, which will be his 10th major international tournament. He has earned 189 senior caps and netted 117 goals – making him the highest scorer in men’s international football history.

    The Portuguese Football Federation held their annual Quinas de Ouro awards ceremony on Tuesday night September 20, and Ronaldo picked up an honorary accolade for being his country’s record goal scorer.

    In his acceptance speech, the Manchester United striker insisted that his time with the national team is not yet over.

    ‘I hope to be a part of the Federation for a few more years,’ Ronaldo said. ‘I still feel motivated, my ambition is high. My path in the national team is not over. We have many quality youngsters. I will be at the World Cup and I want to be at the European.’

    ‘I am proud to receive an award of this magnitude. I never thought that one day I could achieve it. I thank everyone who was important in my career. It has been a long road, but I would like to say that my road is not over yet.’

    Ronaldo will be 39 years old by the time Euro 2024 takes place in Germany. Qualifying begins in March 2023.