Serge Gnabry’s latest display against Real Madrid proved that the “Bestia Negra” tag still suits him. The winger is flourishing in his new role, delivering performances that reinforce his value to both Bayern Munich and the German national team as the World Cup approaches. For fans of both outfits, his form is a welcome boost. However, the same cannot be said for teammate Jamal Musiala, who now faces stiffer competition for a starting berth.
Gnabry’s ability to operate across the forward line—cutting inside from the right, drifting into the No. 10 slot, or leading the line as a false nine—gives coaches a versatile weapon. His understanding with Thomas Müller and Robert Lewandowski has grown, allowing Bayern to recycle possession high up the pitch and punish teams on the break. Defenders struggle to track his movement, and his left foot remains a threat from distance.
For Bayern, having Gnabry in this kind of form is a luxury. His pace and directness provide an alternative to the side’s
Manuel Neuer remains the world's best after a vintage display in Bayern’s 2-1 win over Real Madrid. While experts demand his World Cup return, it has been claimed Julian Nagelsmann is blocking the legend's international comeback. Despite the pressure, the coach's stance prevents Neuer from reversing his retirement for the tournament.
Harry Kane named Juventus and Italy legend Alessandro Del Piero as one of his childhood heroes as the Bayern Munich striker basked in his decisive goal against Real Madrid on Tuesday. The Englishman revealed that Del Piero was an inspiration to him, hailing him as "one of the best" to ever play in the position.
Stuttgart are bracing for a busy summer as Europe's heavyweights circle their prize assets. Midfield lynchpin Angelo Stiller has emerged as a primary target for Real Madrid and Manchester United. To ward off these elite suitors, Stuttgart have slapped a €50 million asking price on their star, making it clear they will only part with him for a premium fee.
Former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich midfielder Hamit Altintop has weighed in on the heavyweight Champions League quarter-final clash between his two former employers, firmly pinning his colours to the mast. The Turkish veteran also addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding Mohamed Salah’s future at Liverpool as the Egyptian enters a pivotal stage of his career.
Prominent names on the list
As expected, the provisional squad features several high-profile stars whose experience and talent could prove decisive when the tournament kicks off next month.
Up front, fans will recognize two-time African Player of the Year Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, whose pace and clinical finishing have made him one of the continent’s most feared strikers. He will be joined by the versatile Riyad Mahrez, known for his dribbling ability and set-piece expertise, providing creativity from wide positions.
In midfield, the selection committee has entrusted the anchoring role to Idrissa Gueye, a combative ball-winner whose energy and distribution have earned him a reputation as one of Europe’s most reliable holding midfielders. His partnership with the technically gifted Thomas Partey should give the team both solidity and flair in the centre of the park.
At the back, the back line will be led by the seasoned defender Kalidou Koulibaly, whose commanding presence and reading
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.
Questions fréquentes
When were Sunderland founded?
Initially founded as Sunderland and District Teachers A.F.C. in 1879, the club was renamed to Sunderland A.F.C. in October 1880. The club turned professional a decade later, when it joined The Football League ahead of the 1890-91 campaign.
Who are the owners of Sunderland?
Kyril Louis-Dreyfus (64% stake) and Juan Sartori (36% stake) are the co-owners of Sunderland. The former first acquired shares in February 2021, joining the latter who has been associated with the club since 2018.
What is Sunderland's stadium called?
Sunderland's home stadium is known as The Stadium of Light, which replaced the iconic Roker Park in 1997. Roker Park served as Sunderland's home ground for almost a century, from 1898 to 1997.
What is Stadium of Light's capacity?
The Stadium of Light has a capacity of 49,000, making it England's ninth-largest football stadium.
How many trophies have Sunderland won?
Sunderland have won a total of nine trophies, which includes six top-flight titles as well as two FA Cups.
How many Premier League (top flight) titles have Sunderland won?
Sunderland have clinched the English top-flight title on six occasions. Their first win came in the 1891-92 season, while they haven't won a single league title since going all the way at the end of the 1935-36 campaign.
Who has made the most appearances for Crystal Palace?
Former English goalkeeper Jimmy Montgomery holds the record for making the most appearances in Sunderland history. Montgomery made 627 appearances between 1960 and 1977 and was a part of the Sunderland team that won the 1973 FA Cup.
Who is Sunderland's all-time top goalscorer?
The Sunderland faithful will never forget the contributions of legendary striker Bobby Gurney, who churned out 228 goals in 390 appearances in what is a club record.
Which famous players have played for Sunderland?
Charlie Hurley, Simon Mignolet, John O'Shea, Jordan Pickford, Jermain Defoe, Bobby Kerr, and Jimmy Montgomery are among the most prominent players to have donned the Sunderland shirt.
Which famous managers have been in charge of Sunderland?
Bob Kyle, Roy Keane, and Sam Allardyce are among Sunderland's most famous managers.
What is Sunderland's nickname?
Previously known as The Rokermen when they played at Roker Park, Sunderland are now officially nicknamed The Black Cats based on 10,000 votes cast by the supporters through the official magazine in 2000. The nickname originates from the names of battery guns which protected the mouth of the River Wear in the 18th century.