Bayer Leverkusen are set to face VfL Bochum on Friday without two key players, as Nigerian striker Nathan Tella and Burkina Faso defender Edmond Tapsoba have been ruled out due to injuries. 

German outlet Kicker reported the news, leaving fans and pundits alike assessing the impact on the reigning Bundesliga champions.Tella, known for his pace and flair on the wing, could make a swift return. The 25-year-old has a chance to be back in action for the DFB-Pokal semi-final against Arminia Bielefeld next week."There is hope for Nathan Tella," head coach Xabi Alonso said earlier this month when discussing the forward's recovery timeline, offering optimism for a speedy comeback.Tapsoba's situation, however, looks trickier. The towering centre-back, a linchpin in Leverkusen's defence, is lagging about a week behind Tella in his rehabilitation.The club expect him to resume training around the time of the Bielefeld clash, but a return to the pitch might not come until later.Sources suggest he could miss not only Bochum but also the league trip to Heidenheim, with a potential comeback slated for April 12 against Union Berlin. "Edi might need a bit more time," Alonso has said, reflecting caution about rushing the 26-year-old back.The injuries pile pressure on Leverkusen, who are already juggling a packed schedule across the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and Champions League.Posts on X from Bayer Leverkusen, confirmed both players were absent from training on Monday, alongside other sidelined stars like Florian Wirtz and Mario Hermoso. "Nathan Tella and Edmond Tapsoba will both be out for Friday's game against Bochum," the update read, aligning with Kicker's report.Tella has been a spark for Leverkusen this season, netting two goals and providing two assists in the Bundesliga, while Tapsoba's commanding presence has anchored their backline.Their absence could force Alonso to shuffle his pack, with the likes of Nordi Mukiele and Piero Hincapié likely to step up defensively, and Amine Adli potentially filling the void in attack.For a club chasing silverware on multiple fronts, these setbacks test their depth. Leverkusen have shown resilience before, think back to Tella's match-winning header against Bayern Munich in the DFB-Pokal last December, but keeping the momentum without these two could prove a stern challenge. Fans will be watching closely to see how Die Werkself adapt as the season heats up.

Nathan Tella and Edmond Tapsoba sidelined for Bayer Leverkusen

Manchester City are facing a growing unease within their ranks as players have expressed private worries about Phil Foden's alarming dip in form during the 2024-25 season. 

The 24-year-old, once a cornerstone of their success, appears to be a shadow of the dynamic talent who lit up the Premier League last term.Foden scooped the PFA Player of the Year award in 2023-24, firing Manchester City to the title with an impressive haul of 19 goals and eight assists. That sparkling form, however, deserted him at Euro 2024, where he struggled to shine for England, and the slump has followed him back to club football.Since netting in City's 3-1 victory over Chelsea in January, he has failed to score or assist in the Premier League, a stark contrast to his previous heroics.Manager Pep Guardiola has taken notice, dropping Foden to the bench for two of City's last three league outings. Even when handed a start against Nottingham Forest, he lasted just 69 minutes before being substituted."When a manager selects an XI, whether it's right or wrong, it's because they believe they're going to win that game," Guardiola said earlier this month, brushing off suggestions that Foden's lack of energy was behind his reduced role.Across the international stage, new England boss Thomas Tuchel included Foden in his first squad but was left unimpressed by his showing on the wing against Albania.Tuchel has since opted for Jarrod Bowen ahead of Monday's clash with Latvia, signaling a shift in faith. "We hope for more impact in these positions, more dribbling, more aggressive runs towards the box," Tuchel said after the Albania game. "Phil is just maybe not finding the momentum at the moment that he can have."Tuchel acknowledged Foden's struggles, adding, "For Phil, it's a difficult season at the club. He comes from several weeks where he does not find the rhythm that he found last season. We called him up to show him our support and our love and commitment." Yet, with the World Cup looming, reports suggest Tuchel won't hesitate to axe underperformers, putting Foden's spot in jeopardy.Behind the scenes, the Daily Mail has reported that Manchester City players are increasingly concerned for their teammate. Some have noted he's lost weight during this challenging spell, while others point to his frustration over being shifted to the left wing at the Euros to accommodate Jude Bellingham centrally, a role he's also struggled to master back at City this season.As Manchester City prepare for their next test, the question looms: can their once-unstoppable star reignite his spark? Football fans across the globe are watching closely.

Phil Foden's fading fire sparks concern at Man City

Carlo Ancelotti was awarded the prestigious Pianchina D'oro in Florence, a prize handed out by Italian coaches to recognise the Real Madrid boss as the standout manager of the previous season.

The former AC Milan and Juventus midfielder was all smiles, surrounded by familiar faces from his playing days and ex-players he's coached during his illustrious career.The likes of Fabio Cannavaro, Gian Piero Gasperini, and Filippo Inzaghi, figures who share a deep bond with Ancelotti—were there to celebrate his success. It was a heartfelt reunion, steeped in mutual respect.For Ancelotti, the day was about reconnecting with his football family, sharing warm embraces, and soaking up the admiration of those who've known him as both a player and a manager."It's a true honour and a immense pride to receive this recognition from my colleagues," he said. "It was a wonderful day in Florence."The ceremony took place at Coverciano, the renowned training base of the Italian national team. Inside the auditorium, Ancelotti delivered a masterclass on his football philosophy, offering insights into the game that have made him a legend in the dugout.Real Madrid fans have been buzzing on X, with one user posting: "Ancelotti picking up the Pianchina D'oro just proves he's still at the top of his game, class act!" Another added: "Seeing Carletto honoured by his peers in Italy is pure football heritage."The updates reflect the pride supporters feel for their manager's latest accolade.

Carlo Ancelotti honoured as Italy's finest coach in Florence

Bayern Munich are on the move, actively scouring the market for a striker to support their talisman Harry Kane, and two young talents have emerged as prime targets.

Sky Germany has reported that the Bavarian giants are keeping a close eye on VfB Stuttgart's towering forward Nick Woltemade, while Southampton's breakout star Tyler Dibling is also firmly on their radar.Woltemade, a 23-year-old German U21 international, has caught attention with his impressive form for Stuttgart this season. The striker has notched nine goals and two assists in 21 Bundesliga appearances, proving his worth for the Swabians.Though not the hottest name in transfer circles just yet, Bayern's scouts have taken note of his potential.Meanwhile, Bayern are also tracking Southampton's 19-year-old sensation Tyler Dibling, according to Sky journalist Florian Plettenberg.Despite the Saints' struggles at the bottom of the Premier League, Dibling has enjoyed a standout campaign at St. Mary's. Bayern's sporting director Max Eberl and football chief Christoph Freund have both expressed glowing opinions about his long-term potential.However, no official bid has landed on Southampton's table yet.The competition is heating up. Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly joined the chase for Dibling, drawn by his flair and promise. RB Leipzig are also in the mix, refusing to be counted out of the race for the young Englishman.Bayern have cast a wider net too, with links to Lille's Jonathan David and Mainz's Jonathan Burkardt surfacing in recent weeks, showing their determination to bolster their attack.Woltemade himself has stayed quiet on the speculation, but X posts from @VfBStuttgartFr suggest he might not be keen to play second fiddle to Kane if a move materializes.For now, Bayern's pursuit of fresh striking talent is gathering pace, and fans will be watching closely as the transfer window looms.

Report: Bayern Munich launch striker hunt with Nick Woltemade in sights

England have kicked off their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with a hard-fought 3-0 victory over Latvia at Wembley on Monday, but it was far from a stroll in the park.

Thomas Tuchel's side leaned on a moment of brilliance from Reece James and a late flurry to see off the stubborn minnows, ranked 136th in the world, while Jude Bellingham's lack of discipline nearly cost them dear.The Real Madrid star, booked in the first half, was fortunate to stay on the pitch after a reckless challenge on Raivis Jurkovskis shortly after the break. Tuchel didn't hesitate, hauling Bellingham off for Phil Foden to avoid a red card that could have shifted the game's momentum. "A bit lucky," Tuchel admitted post-match. "We took the decision straight away to not take the risk and get him off."England had taken the lead just before halftime through James, who marked his first Three Lions start since September 2022 with a stunning free-kick.The Chelsea right-back, a Champions League winner under Tuchel in 2021, bent the ball into the top corner with precision that left Latvia's Krisjanis Zviedris rooted. "The quality the boy has is amazing," Tuchel said of James. "He's in excellent shape, sharp, and his quality is at the highest level."Despite their dominance, England struggled to put Latvia away. The visitors, 136 places below their hosts in FIFA's rankings, frustrated Tuchel's men with a dogged defensive display.Harry Kane squandered a golden chance in the first half, heading over from close range, and the Three Lions lacked their usual cutting edge. "It was not an easy match," Tuchel conceded. "We saw good things, created chances, but needed a free-kick to unlock it. The second half, we slowed down and made little movement, which makes no sense."The breakthrough finally came in the 68th minute when Declan Rice's pinpoint cross found Kane, who tapped in his 71st England goal to double the lead. Eberechi Eze, on as a substitute, sealed the win with a low, deflected strike for his first international goal.Latvia's resistance crumbled late on, though Zviedris denied Morgan Rogers and Kane in the dying moments to keep the scoreline respectable.Tuchel also praised Rogers, the Aston Villa midfielder thriving in their Champions League run this season, who impressed on his first England start. "He deserved to start," Tuchel said. "A match where we're so dominant suits him. He felt more freedom on the wing, and he did good."The result extends England's unbeaten home record in World Cup qualifiers to 30 matches (27 wins, 3 draws), but Tuchel knows there's work ahead. After a 2-0 win over Albania in his debut last Friday, he added, "I'm happy with the attitude, energy, and desire. We'll get there."Next up, England face Andorra in June, but for now, they've banked six points from two games, gritty rather than glamorous, with Bellingham's close call a reminder of the fine margins in international football.

Jude Bellingham dodges red as England grind past Latvia in WC qualifier

The long-awaited outcome of Manchester City's 115-charge financial fair play showdown with the Premier League could be just around the corner, and whispers from the football world suggest the Citizens might come out on top. 

Keith Wyness, a former Everton CEO with deep ties in the game, has hinted that the defending champions are in a strong position as the independent commission's verdict nears.The Premier League first launched their probe into Manchester City back in 2018, digging into the club's financial dealings over several seasons.After years of legal wrangling, they slapped the Citizens with 115 charges in February 2023, sending the case to an independent panel. The hearing kicked off in September 2024 and wrapped up in December, leaving fans, pundits, and rival clubs on edge ever since.These charges aren't small fry. They cover everything from allegedly fudging sponsorship values to dodging rules on reporting manager and player wages. The Premier League have also accused Manchester City of breaching UEFA's financial regulations and their own profitability and sustainability guidelines, rules designed to keep the competition fair.On top of that, the club face claims of not playing ball with the league's investigation. The charges stretch across every season from 2009-10 to 2022-23, painting a picture of a decade-plus of alleged rule-breaking.Wyness, speaking to Football Insider, shared his take based on chatter he's picked up from trusted sources. "All the rumours are swirling—some say Manchester City will escape, others reckon the Premier League might strike a deal behind closed doors," he said. "My gut, and the people I've relied on so far, point to City doing quite well in this case. But neither side's walking away spotless. We'll see soon enough."The timing of the verdict remains a mystery, though. Stefan Borson, a former financial advisor to Manchester City, weighed in on Football Insider just a day before Wyness, expressing frustration at the lack of clarity. "The Premier League and City could've handled this better," Borson said."I've argued from the start for a clear timetable, when the hearing would happen, when the decision might drop. Right now, it's anyone's guess. It could land this week, next week, or even drag into the summer. No one knows."Borson added that the secrecy's so tight, even insiders are in the dark. "I've spoken to plenty of people over the last week—nobody's got a clue," he said. "It's not like there's a buzz it's imminent. If it hits today, it'll be a total surprise. That's not ideal for a case this big—not just for football, but for the real people at City whose jobs could be on the line if it goes badly."On the pitch, Manchester City have kept their focus, with Pep Guardiola's side still chasing silverware in 2025. No fresh updates have trickled out from the club, Guardiola, or the players on the case this week, but the tension's building.Will the Citizens dodge a points deduction, a hefty fine, or worse? Or will the Premier League land a blow that shakes the football world? For now, all eyes are on that verdict, and the clock's ticking.

Are Man City set to dodge the bullet in Financial Fair Play battle?

Bayer Leverkusen are reportedly on the brink of securing a new contract with their talisman Florian Wirtz, but the 21-year-old has yet to give his final approval, according to Kicker.

The Bundesliga champions have been locked in talks with the German sensation, and while the framework of a fresh deal is in place, the decision now rests firmly with Wirtz himself.Back in December, Kicker reported that Leverkusen and Wirtz had settled on an extension stretching beyond 2027. However, the club quickly dismissed those claims, and no official word has emerged since.Now, the latest update suggests the two sides have ironed out the details once more, leaving Die Werkself anxiously awaiting the green light from their star man."Everything is essentially agreed," Kicker noted, "but Leverkusen are still waiting for Wirtz to make his move."The young playmaker, currently sidelined by injury, has remained tight-lipped about his next step. Despite speculation swirling around head coach Xabi Alonso's future, &nbsp;with Real Madrid among the clubs linked, Wirtz has made it clear he won't let Alonso's plans dictate his own. "My decision isn't tied to the coach," he has said, according to the report.Wirtz's stock has never been higher. The attacking midfielder has lit up the season with 15 goals and 13 assists in 39 appearances for Leverkusen, drawing admiring glances from Europe's elite. Bayern Munich, Manchester City, and others are circling, ready to pounce if he opts against staying put.For now, the football world watches and waits. Will Wirtz commit his future to Leverkusen, or will Europe's heavyweights tempt him away? The ball, as Kicker put it, is firmly in his court.

Report: Florian Wirtz holds the key as Leverkusen await star's big call

No matter where on the pitch Diego Simeone needs Marcos Llorente, the Atletico Madrid star is always ready to deliver his very best.

The Madrid-born midfielder has once again proven himself one of the most vital cogs in Simeone's machine, with his numbers this season speaking volumes. With 10 La Liga matches still to play and a Copa del Rey semi-final second leg on the horizon, Marcos Llorente has already notched five goals and seven assists, matching his tally from the previous campaign.It feels a long way off from the heady days of the 2020/21 season when Llorente powered Atletico to the La Liga title with a stunning 13 goals and 12 assists. Back then, he thrived as an attacking midfielder, but since that dream campaign, the versatile 29-year-old has had to adapt to a variety of roles.This term, he's spent much of his time at right-back, where he's gone toe-to-toe with the likes of Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior and Barcelona's Raphinha, and come out on top in both duels.As mentioned, Llorente has already equalled last season's goal-and-assist haul with plenty of games still to go. Given the starring role he's playing under Simeone in 2024/25, those figures look set to climb even higher.Despite missing eight matches through injury this season, he ranks as the fourth-most-used outfield player in the squad, trailing only Antoine Griezmann, Julian Alvarez, and Rodrigo De Paul. Llorente has racked up 2,529 minutes across 35 appearances, averaging 72 minutes per game, more than any other Atletico player.Those eight absences, five in La Liga, two in the Champions League, and one in the Copa del Rey opener against Vic, mean he lags behind eight teammates in total matches played. Yet his minutes on the pitch tell a different story. Simeone has leaned heavily on the No.14, who has featured in every game he's been fit for, barring a Copa del Rey tie against Getafe that Atletico won in a romp.With club captain Koke sidelined in recent weeks, Llorente has been thrust back into his old stomping ground in central midfield. It's a position he knows well but hasn't occupied regularly in Simeone's setup for some time. During Koke's seven-game absence, Llorente has been on the pitch for 602 of the 660 minutes played, including extra time in a Champions League derby clash, underlining just how indispensable he's become."He's a manager's dream," Simeone has said of his trusty utility man in the past. "Wherever you put him, he delivers."For Atletico fans, Llorente remains a jack-of-all-trades and a master of most. Whether bombing forward from midfield or locking down the right flank, his adaptability and relentless work rate make him a cornerstone of this side. With the season still in full swing, the red-and-white faithful will be hoping their do-it-all dynamo keeps firing on all cylinders.

Atletico Madrid's ever-reliable ace Marcos Llorente shines again

There's good news for Pau Cubarsi and Barcelona, the young centre-back underwent tests, and the results have brought a sigh of relief to the Camp Nou faithful.

Medical staff confirmed that Cubarsi has suffered only a minor strain to the anterior tibiofibular ligament in his right ankle.The 18-year-old will follow a conservative treatment plan, and Barcelona have not ruled him out of their upcoming match against Osasuna on 27 March.Cubarsi picked up the injury during Spain's first clash with the Netherlands last Thursday. He limped off in the first half after a challenge from Memphis Depay and returned to Barcelona on Friday.Tests conducted at the club's training ground on Saturday ruled out any serious damage. Both the player, manager Hansi Flick, and the Barcelona hierarchy are feeling much more relaxed about the situation.Spain's medical team had initially suggested the ankle issue didn't look severe, but they opted to release Cubarsi from international duty ahead of their second meeting with the Netherlands on Sunday.The Spanish FA agreed to Barcelona's request for the player to return early and undergo further assessment with his club. "He'll follow a conservative recovery plan, and we'll reassess his tolerance for activity in 48 hours," read a statement from the Catalan giants.Barcelona are quietly optimistic about Cubarsi's availability, especially with their defensive options looking thin for the Osasuna fixture. Andreas Christensen is already confirmed out, Inigo Martinez is highly doubtful, and Ronald Araujo's involvement seems unlikely as he'll return from Uruguay duty with little time to recover.Cubarsi, who has five senior caps for Spain, has become a mainstay in Barcelona's backline this season.The teenage star, widely regarded as one of the brightest prospects in world football, has missed just one game for Barcelona this term, a Champions League last-16 second-leg tie against Benfica due to suspension. Across 42 appearances, Pau Cubarsí has notched one goal and three assists, underlining his importance to the Blaugrana cause.

Barcelona breathe easy as Pau Cubarsi set to return ahead of Osasuna clash

Bayern Munich's midfield dynamo Leon Goretzka has staged a remarkable comeback, defying the odds after former boss Thomas Tuchel tried to push him out the door in the summer of 2023.

The 30-year-old, once on the chopping block, has clawed his way back into the Bavarians' starting lineup and even reclaimed his spot in the German national team.Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, a big hitter on Bayern's supervisory board, dropped a bombshell about the saga.Speaking at the ‘Infinity League' football event recently, he set the record straight. "I'd like to make it clear that in 2023, during the summer transfer window, it wasn't a club official who wanted Leon gone, it was the coach at the time," Rummenigge said."No official ever spoke a bad word about him. It was tough enough with Thomas, and the constant media noise only made it worse."Tuchel, who parted ways with Bayern at the end of the 2023-24 season, had his sights set on a squad overhaul, and Goretzka was in the crosshairs.Despite the pressure, the midfielder stayed put, refusing to let his Bayern story end. Rummenigge couldn't hide his admiration for the player's grit. "I think it's fantastic that Leon has launched himself back into the spotlight," he added."I'm thrilled because he's earned it. He's handled it with real seriousness and smarts."Fast forward to March 2025, and Goretzka's resurgence is the talk of the town. Bayern have seen him shine under current gaffer Vincent Kompany, with recent posts on X from fans buzzing about his form. One supporter wrote, "Leon's proving Tuchel wrong every week, absolute warrior." Another chimed in, "Kompany's got him firing again. What a turnaround."The Bavarians, sitting pretty at the top of the Bundesliga, have leaned on Goretzka's tenacity. His brace in a 3-2 thriller against Wolfsburg back in January showed he's still got the goods.With Tuchel now history and Kompany steering the ship, Goretzka's revival is a testament to his fight, and a reminder that at Bayern, the players often outlast the managers. &nbsp;

Leon Goretzka fights back at Bayern as Thomas Tuchel's exit wish revealed!

vodacom-soccer/uploads/authors/author_thumb_jw399.jpeg

Rob Fleming is a sports writer and can cover all sports, but specialises in football, tennis, Formula One, boxing, rugby and cricket. 
A lifelong Liverpool supporter, is well-travelled and a 'Jack of all trades'. He previously worked in finance and spent time sailing around the Mediterranean.
From 1999-2002, was Sports Editor at iAfrica, then from 2002-2014 was at Touchline Media as KickOff Magazine online editor and content provider (First online editor ever at Media 24 in 2002). 
He has been a content provider for SuperSport, BBC and Goal at various times. Joined TEAMtalk Media in 2014 to work on FOX Asia, left in 2019 and joined Ole Connect in 2021.
Rob is now part of the Vodacom Soccer content team, bringing his vast experience to the brand.

Despite Kaizer Chiefs' inconsistent form this season, Marketing and Commercial Director Jessica Motaung has reaffirmed that the club's technical team has full backing from management as they navigate their first season in charge.

Head coach Nasreddine Nabi took over at the start of the season from Moroccan side ASFAR, inheriting a squad that had just finished 10th in the league - the worst finish in the club's PSL era.While Chiefs have struggled in the league, currently sitting in eighth place, they remain in contention for silverware in the Nedbank Cup semi-finals."I really don't want to get into that right now. All I can say is we have a technical team and a coach, they have the support to do the work, and then it's for them to do the work," Motaung told IdiskiTimes."We obviously know this is a long-term project. We didn't go into this expecting quick results, but certainly, lessons are being learned, and the necessary analysis is being done."Since his arrival, Nabi and his backroom staff - consisting of Khalil Ben Youssef, Cedric Kaze, Ilyez Mzoughi, and Majdi Safi - have overseen 28 matches, winning 10, drawing five, and losing 13 across all competitions.While the league campaign has been underwhelming, the club's hierarchy remains patient, emphasizing the importance of long-term development rather than instant success."It's important that we learn from the challenges we face. I encourage our supporters to stand by the team as we push towards the end of the season. There is a need for more consistency, and there's work happening behind the scenes to ensure we achieve that," Motaung added.As Chiefs continue their push for a strong finish and a potential Nedbank Cup triumph, the pressure remains on the coaching staff.However, with the club's leadership showing faith in the process, it appears Amakhosi are committed to long-term stability rather than making reactionary changes. &nbsp;