Baller League is a mix of amateur players, former professionals and famous faces - with some of those calling shots as celebrity managers. The likes of Alisha Lehmann, Maya Jama, Idris Elba, Ian Wright, KSI and Angry Ginge have all passed through the Copper Box Arena. What do these A-list stars offer to the collective cause? Former Tottenham academy graduate and current Yanited star Paul-Jose M’Poku has answered that question during an exclusive interview with GOAL.
Alisha Lehmann has been labelled a "rabbit in the headlights" after her latest subdued display for Leicester City Women. Her struggles highlight the team's dire situation as they plummet closer to a devastating Women's Super League relegation, with a 1-0 defeat to Brighton on Sunday leaving them four points adrift at the bottom with just four matches left to play.
Two England prospects have made the Women's NXGN 2026 list, but that is just scratching the surface when it comes to the talent coming through in one of the best and most successful nations in women's football. Sarina Wiegman's Lionesses have won back-to-back European Championship trophies and reached the final of the most recent World Cup, and it looks like they are set up for future success with the quality coming through the pipeline.
Switzerland forward Alisha Lehmann finally opened her account for Leicester City, but her first-half strike was not enough to prevent a devastating 2-1 defeat against Aston Villa. Despite taking an early lead, the Foxes collapsed in the second half, suffering their sixth consecutive Women's Super League loss and deepening their fears of a looming relegation battle.
Swiss international forward Alisha Lehmann has hit back at her critics, firmly denying claims that she prioritises social media over her football career. After cutting short a stint in Italy to join Leicester City's relegation battle, the 26-year-old insists her focus remains entirely on the pitch, relying on her strong work ethic to prove the persistent doubters wrong.
Alisha Lehmann is only a matter of weeks into her spell at Leicester City, but the WSL outfit have been warned that on-field struggles could lead to the “commercial titan” beating a hasty retreat. Switzerland international Lehmann returned to English football in January following stints in Italy with Juventus and Como Women. Emile Heskey has told GOAL what she offers to the Foxes.
Manchester United, often simply referred to as "United," are one of the most iconic and successful football clubs in the world, based in Old Trafford, Greater Manchester, England. The club was founded as Newton Heath LYR Football Club in 1878 by the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway depot at Newton Heath. The team changed its name to Manchester United in 1902 and moved to its current home, Old Trafford, in 1910.
Famous players
Manchester United have been home to some of the greatest footballers in history. Sir Bobby Charlton, a World Cup winner with England in 1966, is arguably the most iconic figure in the club's history. Other legendary players include George Best, known for his flair and skill, and Eric Cantona, who brought a winning mentality to the club during the 1990s. More recent stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, and Paul Scholes have also contributed significantly to the club's success.
Honours
Manchester United are one of the most decorated clubs in English football, having won a record 20 Premier League titles (formerly the First Division). They have also lifted the FA Cup 12 times, the League Cup five times, and the UEFA Champions League three times. The club's dominance in English football was particularly evident during the 1990s and early 2000s under manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Managers
Sir Alex Ferguson is undoubtedly the most successful manager in Manchester United's history. He spent 26 years at the club, leading them to an unprecedented era of success. Before Ferguson, managers like Matt Busby and Wilf McGuinness played crucial roles in shaping the club's identity. More recent managers, including David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, and José Mourinho, have faced the challenge of maintaining the club's high standards.
Stadium
Old Trafford, often referred to as the "Theatre of Dreams," is one of the most famous stadiums in the world. With a capacity of roughly 75,000, it is among the largest football stadiums in the United Kingdom. The stadium has hosted numerous major matches, including UEFA Champions League finals and FIFA World Cup matches.
Location
Manchester United are based in the city of Manchester, which is located in the northwest of England. The club's home ground, Old Trafford, is situated in the Trafford borough. Manchester is a major industrial city with a rich footballing heritage.
Owners
In February 2024, British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe's company, INEOS, acquired a significant 25% stake in Manchester United. This acquisition granted Ratcliffe sporting control over the club, placing him in a position to influence key decisions related to its operations.
Ratcliffe has already made a substantial financial commitment to Manchester United. His large investments demonstrate his dedication to the club's success and his willingness to provide the necessary resources for its growth.
Frequently asked questions
When were Blackburn Rovers founded?
Blackburn Rovers were founded in 1875, following a meeting that took place between two men of the Shrewsbury School. Blackburn Rovers are among the founding members of the Football League, the oldest football league in the world.
Who are the owners of Blackburn Rovers?
Blackburn Rovers are owned by Venky's, an Indian poultry company which is part of the V H Group.
What is Blackburn Rovers' stadium called?
Blackburn Rovers played their games at four grounds – Oozehead Ground, Pleasington Cricket Ground, Alexandra Meadows, Leamington Road – before making a permanent shift to Ewood Park in 1890.
What is Ewood Park's capacity?
Ewood Park has a capacity of 31,367. In 1913, a double-tiered Riverside Stand saw the capacity exceed the 70,000-mark.
How many trophies have Blackburn Rovers won?
Blackburn Rovers have won 10 trophies in total - three first division titles, six FA Cups, and one League Cup.
How many Premier League (top flight) titles have Southampton won?
Southampton are yet to be crowned the champions of the Premier League. They have never won an English top flight title.
Who has made the most appearances for Blackburn Rovers?
Blackburn Rovers have won three English top-flight titles, with only one league triumph in the Premier League era (1994-95).
Who is Blackburn Rovers' all-time top goalscorer?
Derek Fazackerley is Blackburn Rovers' all-time leading appearance maker in club history, featuring in 671 games in an 18-year span for the club.
Which famous players have played for Blackburn Rovers?
Blackburn Rovers' leading goalscorer of all-time is former English striker Simon Garner, who netted 194 goals in a 14-year stint at the club.
Which famous managers have been in charge of Blackburn Rovers?
David Raya, Bob Crompton, Alan Shearer, Andy Cole, Simon Garner, Brad Freidel, Roque Santa Cruz, and David Dunn are some of the most famous players to have represented Blackburn Rovers.
What is Blackburn Rovers' nickname?
Blackburn Rovers are nicknamed The Riversiders, a reference to one of the stands at Ewood Park, the Riverside Stand, being adjacent to a river.