Liverpool boss Arne Slot, Lionesses manager Sarina Wiegman and Paris Saint-Germain's Luis Enrique are among the prominent nominees for the Johan Cruyff awards that will be given away at the 2025 Ballon d'Or. Both Chelsea coaches, Enzo Maresca and Sonia Bompastor, have been nominated as well, along with Barcelona's Hansi Flick, who inspired the Blaugranas to a domestic treble.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has heaped praise on Paris Saint-Germain, describing the French club as one of the most exciting and dominant forces in European football and expressed optimism about a potential matchup with the Blaugrana in the upcoming campaign. Luis Enrique’s squad clinched both the Ligue 1 title and the UEFA Champions League and the Barcelona chief was quick to highlight the style and substance of the Parisian outfit.
Liverpool are unlikely to go after Paris Saint-Germain sensation Bradley Barcola this summer, despite reports in France claiming that the Reds have reignited their interest in the French forward. Following Luis Diaz's departure, the Premier League champions have been linked with signing a new left-sided winger, but cold water has been poured on those rumours.
Aston Villa are on the verge of signing Ivory Coast international forward Evann Guessand from Nice, which could open the door to Ollie Watkins' exit from Villa Park this summer. Watkins has been linked with a move away from the club since the start of the summer transfer window, with several teams, including Manchester United, keen on signing the England star.
Monaco are planning to delay Paul Pogba's debut until October as the ex-Manchester United star continues to work on his fitness. The 32-year-old, who signed with the Ligue 1 side on a free transfer earlier this summer, has not featured in a professional match since September 2023.