FOOTBALL

Enzo Fernandez skips training, irritates Benfica

Published

2 years ago

January 3, 2023

admin

Enzo Fernandez’s antics after Argentina won the World Cup haven’t gone down well with his current club, Benfica.

Fernandez was one of the stars for Argentina of the World Cup and it appears that the adulation has gone to his head!

In a totally unjustified move, he returned to Argentina without the club’s permission on New Year’s Eve.

Naturally, the Benfica management is very upset.

Fernandez missed two training sessions on Monday after returning to Argentina for New Year’s Eve.

While Benfica have refused to comment on how Fernandez will be disciplined, the playmaker has been warned that he ‘must show up for training’ on Tuesday.

The reason for this behaviour is not hard to fathom.

Fernandez, 21, has been linked with a move away from the Portuguese giants in recent weeks as many clubs seem to be interested in signing him on.

The midfielder, who was crowned as the Young Player of the Tournament, reportedly has a huge €120million (£105.6m) release clause written into his contract – which hasn’t deterred several interested suitors.

Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United have expressed interest and it appears that the youngster is edging closer to an exit.

Fernandez’ trip to Argentina came shortly before reports claiming that Chelsea are edging closer to sealing a blockbuster deal for the coveted midfielder.

There were rumours that the Blues were thrashing out the ‘final details of a €127m (£112.5m) agreement.

The fee, which is slightly higher than Fernandez’ release clause, would be paid in instalments if the final formalities can be wrapped up in the coming days.

Fernandez was coy when quizzed over his future by Argentine media last week but he stopped short of ruling out a big January switch.

He said: “I don’t know about my future or proposals, that’s what my representative is taking care of. I don’t want to get into the subject. I am focused on Benfica, we have a game on Friday.”

Benfica chief Rui Costa insisted last month that the Portuguese giants had no appetite to cash in on any of their players.

Currently, they are focussed on winning a 38th domestic crown under Roger Schmidt.

It seems likely, though, that Costa has changed his mind softened in the wake of Chelsea’s mammoth proposal. Or he could be playing hard-to-get, which is a common negotiation tactic.

Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly was expected to spend big in January after spending in excess of £250m in the summer.

That spending spree was concluded before Thomas Tuchel was axed back in September.

The current manager, Graham Potter, was always likely to be handed funds in the New Year to stamp his own mark on the Blues squad.

It is believed that Chelsea are also closing in on a £35m deal for Monaco defender Benoit Badiashile.

FC Goa

FC Goa Triumphs Over Mohun Bagan with a 2-1 Victory

Published

2 days ago

December 21, 2024

Maadhav

FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan! FC Goa secured a memorable 2-1 victory against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League at Fatorda Stadium. This high-stakes encounter ended Mohun Bagan’s unbeaten streak, marking a significant moment in the league.

Brison Fernandes opened the scoring for FC Goa in the 13th minute, assisted by Borja Herrera. His shot deflected off Mohun Bagan’s Tom Aldred, giving Goa an early lead. Despite pressing attacks, Mohun Bagan failed to capitalize on opportunities during the first half, keeping FC Goa ahead.

The second half saw Mohun Bagan equalize through Dimitrios Petratos’ penalty, awarded after a handball by Armando. With the match level, momentum shifted briefly in favor of Mohun Bagan. However, FC Goa struck again in the 68th minute as Brison Fernandes headed in Herrera’s precise cross, sealing the lead and eventual victory for the home side. FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan!

FC Goa’s defense stood firm during the closing stages, with Sandesh Jhingan and Odei Onaindia effectively countering Mohun Bagan’s attempts to find another equalizer. This win elevated FC Goa to third place in the league standings with 22 points from 12 matches, showcasing their strong form this season.

The match underscored FC Goa’s resilience and tactical discipline, while Mohun Bagan will aim to bounce back from this setback. Fans were treated to an exciting contest, reflecting the competitive spirit of the league.

FC Goa

FC Goa Host League Leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant in ISL Clash

Published

3 days ago

December 20, 2024

Maadhav

FC Goa Host League Leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant in ISL Clash

FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant! The Indian Super League (ISL) promises an intense showdown as FC Goa faces league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant this Friday at Fatorda. With playoff positions at stake, both teams are set for a thrilling encounter.

FC Goa aims to break into the top three with a win, continuing their unbeaten six-match streak. Striker Armando Sadiku leads the Goa attack with eight goals in ten matches, while midfielders Iker Guarrotxena and Dejan Drazic add creativity. Young goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari’s three clean sheets in five matches provide defensive assurance. FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant!

Mohun Bagan, atop the league with 26 points, has relied on Jamie Maclaren’s scoring consistency and Greg Stewart’s midfield mastery. Although Stewart will miss the match due to injury, the Mariners boast six clean sheets this season, anchored by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith.

Both teams have impressive records, with Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season. The match could define playoff aspirations as Mohun Bagan aims to solidify their position, and Goa seeks to climb the rankings. Fans anticipate a tightly contested game between two strong sides showcasing Indian football’s growing quality.

The match is critical for both teams’ playoff aspirations. FC Goa looks to capitalize on their home advantage and attacking prowess, while Mohun Bagan seeks to extend their dominance at the top of the league. With FC Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season, the battle promises to be a showcase of quality football.

Fans are eagerly anticipating this high-stakes clash, which could significantly impact the league’s playoff picture. Both teams have shown resilience and skill, ensuring a thrilling contest.

FC Goa

Mohun Bagan SG and FC Goa Face Off in ISL 2024-25 Thriller

Published

3 days ago

December 20, 2024

Maadhav

Mohun Bagan SG faces FC Goa in a thrilling ISL 2024-25 encounter, promising intense action and crucial league implications.

The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 features a highly anticipated clash between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and FC Goa at Fatorda’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday. Both teams come into this encounter in solid form, aiming to strengthen their campaigns at a crucial juncture in the season.

Mohun Bagan leads the standings with an unbeaten streak, registering seven wins and a draw in ISL 2024-25. Their defensive strength is evident, having kept six clean sheets. FC Goa, sitting fourth on the table, boasts a dynamic attacking style, with nine different players contributing goals this season.

This battle between Mohun Bagan’s resolute defense and Goa’s attacking versatility promises to be a high-stakes showdown. Goa seeks to overcome the league leaders and secure vital points to narrow the gap. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan looks to extend its dominance and consolidate its position at the top.

Key players to watch include Mohun Bagan’s defensive stalwarts and Goa’s offensive playmakers. Both sides have demonstrated their capability to adapt to challenging situations, setting the stage for a thrilling contest. With the mid-season point approaching, the match carries significant implications for both teams’ playoff aspirations.

Fans can expect an intense, action-packed game as two of the ISL’s top teams vie for supremacy. Mohun Bagan’s strategic discipline will be tested against Goa’s creative and relentless attacks. This matchup is a must-watch for football enthusiasts, showcasing the best of Indian football talent.