Manchester United duo Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo have withdrawn from international duty with injuries, the club has confirmed. The pair have been crucial to the Red Devils' recent turnaround, helping to fire Michael Carrick's side up to third in the Premier League, but will now spend the March break at home rather than represent Slovenia and Cameroon respectively.
Since the announcement of changes to the biennial tournament, the governing body has been putting out fires, repeatedly trying to reassure stakeholders and clarify what the new era will look like for the tournament. Recently, rumours emerged again that the next edition could be postponed, owing to the unpreparedness of the host countries.
Bafana Bafana's squad for the Africa Cup of Nations finals was dominated by players from the Soweto giants. Even though South Africa were eliminated in the Round of 16, lessons learnt in the continental competition have been linked to the current form shown by the Sea Robbers.
It is a matter of just over a month before the continental competition kicks off, but confusion has emerged over the potential host. Reports now claim that Morocco has withdrawn as the host of the women's football bonanza, and South Africa is ready to step in. However, the government has clarified its stance after a top official had stated that the country has secured the hosting rights already.
South Africa is expected to submit a bid to host the continental tournament. According to the top government official, a joint bid is expected alongside neighbouring countries. If South Africa wins the hosting rights, it will have another chance to try and win the AFCON trophy on home soil, having done so in 1996.
In a wide-ranging blog interview, the former AFCON winner revealed his views on the tournament's semi final stage, the battle between Mane and Salah, the upcoming final and picks his standout players.
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 Kaizer Chiefs founded?
Kaizer Chiefs were founded in January 1970 when Kaizer Motaung returned to South Africa from the USA where he played as a striker for the Atlanta Chiefs of the North American Soccer League (NASL).
How did Kaizer Chiefs get their name?
Club founder Kaizer Motaung combined his own first name with the second name of the club (Atlanta Chiefs) he played for while in the USA.
Who are the owners of Kaizer Chiefs?
Kaizer Motaung is the owner and chairman of the club with various other undisclosed individuals and entities holding shares in the club.
What is Kaizer Chiefs stadium called?
The club’s official home ground is the FNB Stadium but the club regularly plays home matches at other grounds, most notably the Moses Mabhida Stadium and New Peter Mokaba Stadium.
What are Kaizer Chiefs nicknames?
The club is known as Amakhosi or The Glamour Boys by fans.
How many trophies have Kaizer Chiefs won?
52 domestic trophies and one African Cup Winners Cup (2001).
How many times have Kaizer Chiefs won the top-flight league title?
Chiefs have won a total of 12 league titles under the auspices of the PSL (4), NSL (3) and NPSL (5).
Who has made the most appearances for Kaizer Chiefs?
Doctor Khumalo holds this record with 497 appearances.