Dayot Upamecano has officially departed the France national camp to link back up with Bayern following his late dismissal against Italy. The central defender picked up a second yellow card in Friday's 1-1 draw in Paris, triggering an automatic one-match ban that rules him out of Monday's UEFA Nations League encounter against Belgium.
France were held to a 1-1 draw by Italy at the Stade de France as Michael Olise's opener was cancelled out by Alessandro Bastoni. A late red card for Dayot Upamecano compounded a frustrating night for Les Bleus in the UEFA Nations League.
Dayot Upamecano could not hide his admiration after witnessing Zinedine Zidane showcase his trademark quality during his first training session in charge of France. The Bayern Munich centre-back joined twelve members of the 23-man squad at Clairefontaine on Monday, relishing the chance to absorb wisdom from their celebrated new head coach.
FIFA has sparked a massive debate ahead of the World Cup quarter-finals by appointing an entirely Argentine officiating crew for France's clash against Morocco. The decision has raised eyebrows across the footballing world given the intense recent history and bubbling rivalry between Les Bleus and the Albiceleste, as well as the fact Argentina are likely to be a main challenger to France winning the entire tournament.
Dayot Upamecano has dismissed speculation linking Michael Olise with a move to Real Madrid, insisting the Bayern Munich winger is staying put. The France defender's comments come amid reports suggesting Los Blanco could make a record-breaking €223 million bid for the 24-year-old.
Dayot Upamecano has detailed his tactical blueprint to nullify the immense threat of Erling Haaland ahead of a highly anticipated World Cup showdown. The French defender faces his ultimate test of the international tournament in Boston as Les Bleus square off against an in-form Norway side.
Bayern Munich have eliminated Real Madrid and reached the Champions League semi-finals. After a 2-1 first-leg win, the Bavarians prevailed 4-3 in a thrilling return match. Player ratings for the FCB squad.
In light of last year’s momentous events, FC Bayern are looking ahead to the upcoming international break with concern – but also with a touch of historical grandeur.
Ahead of FC Bayern Munich’s Champions League round of 16 second-leg match against Atalanta Bergamo, Vincent Kompany is considering not fielding two of Munich’s usual first-team regulars at all.
Bayern Munich honorary president Uli Hoeness has declared war on player agents following the protracted contract negotiations with Dayot Upamecano. The 74-year-old is no longer willing to tolerate the immense power wielded by representatives and has threatened to create a "blacklist" to ban those who behave unfairly from future dealings with the club. Hoeness believes the financial demands of agents have become disproportionate and is ready to take radical steps to curb their influence at the Allianz Arena.
Bayern Munich have officially secured the long-term future of Dayot Upamecano, confirming that the French international has signed a contract extension until 2030. The 27-year-old was in the final months of his previous deal, sparking intense speculation that he would leave for free. However, the defender has opted to commit his peak years to the Bavarian giants, dealing a massive blow to his high-profile suitors in Spain and France.
Real Madrid are set to intensify their efforts to sign Nico Schlotterbeck from Borussia Dortmund after suffering a major blow in their pursuit of Dayot Upamecano. The Bayern Munich defender was identified as the club's primary target but is now on the verge of signing a new deal in Bavaria, forcing Los Blancos to pivot towards the German international who could cost upwards of €50 million.
Real Madrid have reportedly 'rejected' the signing of three big-name stars ahead of the January transfer window, as Los Blancos plan for their future amidst the intense recent pressure placed upon head coach Xabi Alonso. The three players in question all see their contracts expire on June 30, 2026, and so will be free to negotiate with foreign clubs from January 1. Real have often used this tactic to secure top signings, but have reportedly been offered and rejected the trio.
With the halfway stage of the season upon us, the time has come to shine a spotlight on the players who have made the biggest impact across Europe's major leagues. But first, let's run through the lay of the land.