International Football often finds itself in the periphery with club games and competitions dominating the international calendar. 

Though it takes the front seat during World Cups and continental championships, the number of games played otherwise are few and far between in international football compared to club games. 

Also, the qualifiers for major tournaments and international friendlies do not happen regularly. So players have to hit the ground running to quickly get used to the prevailing system and to sync up with other players in the national set-up.

As a result, it becomes difficult to get things on track and churn out wins for their national side, even for highly skilled players. The number of matches and wins in a player’s international career will be much less compared to their club numbers.

In that light, a player with more than a hundred wins would have had a long career at the international level achieving something special. It is not often that we come across players having such levels of longevity and consistency, which is also an ode to their fitness levels.

Having said that, let us glance through the list of players with the most wins in international football.

Most wins by a player in international football

Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo leads the list of players with the most wins in international football with 132 victories. The Spanish duo of Sergio Ramos and Iker Casillas are second and third, respectively, with 131 and 121 wins.

Argentine Lionel Messi is fourth on the list with 119 wins in international football.

Most wins by a player in international football

Player	Country	International wins
Cristiano Ronaldo	Portugal	132
Sergio Ramos	Spain	131
Iker Casillas	Spain	121
Lionel Messi	Argentina	119

Cristiano Ronaldo | 132 wins

Cristiano Ronaldo is on top of the list of players with the most wins in international football having won 132 matches for Portugal. 

The 39-year-old Ronaldo made his senior debut with Portugal in August 2003 at the age of 18. He went on to represent his country in six European Championships, the most by any player, and five World Cups.

Ronaldo also led Portugal to the UEFA EURO 2016 title, their first major title in international football. He is also on top of the scoring charts in the international scene with 135 goals.  

Sergio Ramos | 131 wins

Sergio Ramos is second on the list of players with the most wins in international football with 131 victories for Spain. He made his debut for Spain’s senior side in an international friendly against China in March 2005.

The former Real Madrid defender was part of the golden generation of Spanish football that won three major titles in a row from 2008 to 2012. He was part of the team that won back-to-back European championships in 2008 and 2012 along with the World Cup in between, in 2010.

Ramos also has a tally of 23 goals from 180 senior appearances for Spain.

Iker Casillas | 121 wins

Iker Casillas, who was the captain of the Spanish football team during their golden reign, is in third place for most wins by a player in international football with 121 victories in his career. 

The former Real Madrid goalkeeper made his senior debut in June 2000 and went on to lift three consecutive major trophies with Spain from 2008 to 2012. He kept a clean sheet in each of the final matches in those tournaments.

Spain notched up identical 1-0 wins over Germany in the EURO 2008 final and against the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final before thrashing Italy 4-0 in the final of EURO 2012.

Photo credit: Imago

Football is one of the most physical sports in the world. Sometimes, a match becomes so intense that players do not back off from committing serious fouls or confronting fellow players or referees, resulting in a booking. 

On some occasions, these fouls are grievous to such an extent that the referee shows a straight red card and sends the player off for the remainder of the game, which often results in a prolonged suspension or a ban for several matches.

Talking about the players who have received the most red cards in football, former Colombia international Gerardo Bedoya sits at the top of the pile. Bedoya has received a staggering 46 red cards throughout his career.

In September 2012, Santa Fe’s Bedoya elbowed and subsequently kicked the head of Millonarios player Jhonny Ramirez in a heated Bogota derby of the Colombian top-flight. He was sent off by the referee and was subsequently slapped with a 15-match ban.

Known as the ‘World’s Dirtiest Footballer�? Gerardo Bedoya was sent off 21 minutes into his coaching debut for Sante Fe in 2016 as his short-temperedness continued in his post-playing career as well.

Next up on the list of most red cards in football history is Sergio Ramos, who has been sent off 28 times in his career so far. The Spanish international is a fearless defender who often goes for dangerous tackles that often put him in the referee’s book.

Ramos is also the player to get sent off the most number of times in La Liga history, with 21 out of the 28 coming while playing in the Spanish top division. The PSG player’s most recent red card came against Reims for arguing with the referee. 

Another player to feature on the list of most red cards in football is Cyril Rool. The French defender was known for his ruthless tackling and has amassed an astonishing 27 red cards. Moreover, he has also received another 187 yellow cards, a Ligue 1 record.

With 22 send-offs, Alexis Ruano Delgado is next on the list of most red cards in football history. The versatile defender was La Liga’s Breakthrough Player for the 2006-07 season. However, his disciplinary issues often saw him sitting on the sidelines rather than playing on the pitch.

A former Getafe player, Alexis Delgado is remembered for the infamous red card which he received for punching Atletico Madrid’s Mario Mandzukic in the 2014-15 La Liga season. He received a four-match suspension for his actions.

Uruguayan Paolo Montero completes our list of the top five players with most red cards in football history. He spent the majority of his playing career in Italy, plying his trade for Atalanta and Juventus. Having retired more than a decade ago, Montero received 21 red cards, which, to date, is a record in Serie A.

Most red cards in football

No.	Player	Red Cards
1	Gerardo Bedoya	46
2	Sergio Ramos	28
3	Cyril Rool	27
4	Alexis Ruano Delgado	22
5	Paolo Montero	21
6	Rafael Marquez	21
7	Felipe Melo	20
8	Matteo Contini	20
9	Fernando Amorebieta	19
10	Gary Medel	18

 

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Featured photo: FABIAN GREDILLAS / AFP

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) will kick-off their pre-season tour of Japan with a clash against reigning J1 League champions Kawasaki Frontale at the Japan National Stadium on Wednesday. The match will start at 4:00 PM IST (Indian Standard Time).

Under the tutelage of new head coach Christophe Galtier, a star-studded PSG outfit defeated Ligue 2 club Quevilly-Rouen 2-0 in the first fixture of their pre-season 2022-23.

Former Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos converted a penalty for PSG while 18-year-old winger Djeidi Gassama netted the other goal in the 54th minute to start their pre-season with a convincing victory.

PSG’s 25-man squad including the deadly trio of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Neymar have already reached Japan ahead of their first friendly of the tour.

Meanwhile, the Ligue 1 champions have left several of their unwanted players at home during their pre-season tour of Japan. The list includes Georginio Wijnaldum, Ander Herrera, Julian Draxler, Layvin Kurzawa and Rafinha.

On the other hand, Kawasaki Frontale are currently placed third in the J1 League 2022 standings with 37 points from 20 matches. Toru Oniki’s Kawasaki have been the most dominant team recently in J1 League, winning back-to-back league titles in 2020 and 2021 and their fourth since 2017.

Apart from Kawasaki Frontale, PSG are also scheduled to play two other J1 clubs during their stay in Japan - Urawa Reds on July 23, followed by their showdown against Gamba Osaka on July 25. 

After the completion of their Japan tour, PSG will travel to Israel to face FC Nantes in the Trophee des Champions fixture on July 31.

Paris Saint Germain squad vs Kawasaki Frontale

Goalkeeper: Keylor Navas, Sergio Rico, Alexandre Letellier, Gianluigi Donnarumma

Defenders: Achraf Hakimi, Presnel Kimpembe, Sergio Ramos, Marquinhos, Juan Bernat, Abdou Diallo, Nuno Mendes, Warren Zaïre-Emery

Midfielders: Marco Verratti, Danilo Pereira, Vitinha, Leandro Paredes, Pablo Sarabia, Thilo Kehrer, Nuno Mendes, Idrissa Gueye, Eric-Junior Dina-Ebimbe

Forwards: Kylian Mbappé, Neymar, Arnaud Kalimuendo, Lionel Messi, Mauro Icardi

Where to watch PSG vs Kawasaki Frontale pre-season friendly live in India?

Live streaming of Paris Saint Germain vs Kawasaki Frontale pre-season friendly will be available on PSG TV Premium and the official Paris Saint-Germain Twitch channel.

There will be no live telecast of PSG vs Kawasaki Frontale pre-season friendly on any TV channel in India.

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Featured photo: TOSHIFUMI KITAMURA / AFP

Following the completion of the top five leagues in Europe, several clubs have already started their preparations for the 2021-22 season by appointing new managers and signing new players. 

Ahead of an exciting new football season, we bring to you all the transfer news and updates from the top five leagues and across the world.

August 31: 12:00 PM: Moise Kean returns to Juventus

Everton forward Moise Kean has returned to boyhood club Juventus on a two-year loan deal, with an obligation to buy if certain criteria is met. The 21-year-old, Bianconeri's youngest-ever debutant, arrives as a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.

in ⚪️⚫️!http://t.co/zFjHLDqUGi#WelcomeBackMoise pic.twitter.com/u3UVyAIpMW

�?JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) August 31, 2021

Kean, who departed Turin for Everton in 2019, was last seen in action with Paris Saint-Germain where he scored 17 times for the Ligue 1 side during his solitary campaign in Paris.

The 21-year-old has won two Serie A titles and a Coppa Italia with Juventus, and will be eager to claim more silverware upon his return to the Serie A giants. 

August 31: 8:00 AM: Bayern Munich sign Marcel Sabitzer

Bayern Munich have announced the signing of RB Leipzig captain Marcel Sabitzer for a reported fee of £13.7m plus add ons. The 27-year-old attacking midfielder reunites with former manager Julian Nagelsmann and Dayot Upamecano.

Tuck in! #ServusMarcel pic.twitter.com/HrR5s7gmcu

�?FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) August 30, 2021

Sabitzer, who initially joined Leipzig from Rapid Vienna in 2014, made 229 appearances across all competitions for Die Rotten Bullen and registered 52 goals. He becomes Bayern's fourth signing of the summer transfer window after Upamecano, English left-back Omar Richards and former Germany Under-21 goalkeeper Sven Ulreich.

August 31: 2:00 AM: Willian re-joins Corinthians

Brazilian midfielder Willian terminated his Arsenal contract with mutual consent and returned home to join Corinthians as a free agent. The 33-year-old arrives at his boyhood club where he made his professional debut in 2006.

Aqui eu nasci como jogador de futebol.

Após 14 anos estou de volta para continuar a escrever minha história no clube que amo.

Vai @Corinthians!!! #Willianédotimao #willian #cotinthians #vaicorinthians pic.twitter.com/VrvO8n6X6P

�?Willian (@willianborges88) August 31, 2021

Willian, who joined Arsenal on a free transfer after seven seasons with Chelsea, managed to score once in 37 matches for the north London side across all competitions. The former Chelsea man was earning a reported £190,000 per week - making him Arsenal's second-highest earner at the club - despite having no place in Mikel Arteta's first team this season.

The Brazilian international held constructive talks with the Gunners and agreed to terminate his contract, which had two years left.

August 30: 10:00 PM: Tiémoué Bakayoko returns to AC Milan on two-year loan deal from Chelsea

France midfielder Tiémoué Bakayoko has returned to Italy to join AC Milan on a two-year loan deal from Chelsea, the clubs announced on Monday. The 27-year-old's loan deal with the Rossoneri includes an option to make the move permanent.

✍️ @TimoeB08 ✍️
You know the drill ⚫️#SempreMilan #NewPlayerUnlocked pic.twitter.com/OPvvWog4Gf

�?AC Milan (@acmilan) August 30, 2021

“AC Milan is delighted to announce the signing of Bakayoko from Chelsea FC on a two-year loan, which could turn into an obligation if certain conditions are met,�?the Serie A club said in a statement.

The 27-year-old Frenchman moved to Chelsea in 2017 from Monaco, but was sent out on loan to Milan for the 2018-19 season, when he made 42 appearances in all competitions.

August 27, 10:00 PM: Manchester United sign Cristiano Ronaldo

Manchester United have completed the signing of Cristiano Ronaldo from Juventus for an initial fee reported to be around �?0m plus up to �?m in bonuses. Right until Friday morning, Manchester City was seeming like a possible destination, but Ronaldo's agent, Jorge Mendes, held talks with Manchester United to complete the reunion.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Manchester United (@manchesterunited)

“Manchester United is delighted to confirm that the club has reached an agreement with Juventus for the transfer of Cristiano Ronaldo, subject to agreement of personal terms, visa and medical,�?read an official statement from the club.

Ronaldo had less than 12 months left on his Juventus contract and Manchester City were reluctant on paying a fee for Ronaldo, who turns 37 next year. 

August 23, 10:00 PM: Xherdan Shaqiri ends Liverpool stay to join Lyon

Switzerland playmaker Xherdan Shaqiri has completed a £9.5m move from Liverpool to Ligue 1 side Lyon, the clubs announced on Monday, August 23. The 29-year-old, who joined the Merseysiders from Stoke in a £13m deal in 2018, departs with a record of eight goals and nine assists in 63 appearances across all competitions.

Plenty of memorable moments ⚽️

Best of luck in the future, @XS_11official pic.twitter.com/dxWcTbV7H8

�?Liverpool FC (@LFC) August 23, 2021

Shaqiri won the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, UEFA SuperCup and the FIFA Club World Cup in his three-year association with Liverpool, and leaves after being reduced to a peripheral figure in Jurgen Klopp's squad in the 2020-21 campaign. The Swiss captain has signed a three-year contract with Lyon. 

August 20, 11:30 PM: Martin Odegaard and Aaron Ramsdale join Arsenal on permanent basis

Norway captain Martin Odegaard, who spent the second half of the 2020-21 Premier League season at Arsenal, has made a permanent switch from La Liga giants Real Madrid for a reported fee of £30m. The 22-year-old midfielder has signed a four-year deal with the Gunners, with the option of an extra year.

Welcome høme, Martin Ødegaard pic.twitter.com/OUlG9YGDKj

�?Arsenal (@Arsenal) August 20, 2021

Odegaard made 20 appearances across all competitions for Arsenal last term, and arrives in England after six years with Real Madrid, but making just eight senior appearances in La Liga. With four loan spells away from the Santiago Bernabeu, the Norwegian fell down the pecking order and was finally notified that he won't be a part of Carlo Ancelotti's plans for the latest season.

Arsenal also confirmed the arrival of England goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale from Sheffield United. The 23-year-old, who made his Premier League debut with Bournemouth back in 2016-17, arrives after a solitary campaign with the Blades that saw them suffer relegation.

Signed. Sealed. Delivered.

We're right behind you, @AaronRamsdale98! �?pic.twitter.com/rp9AZhdnFA

�?Arsenal (@Arsenal) August 20, 2021

Ramsdale has signed a long-term contract reportedly for an initial fee of £24m, plus £6m in add-ons.

August 18, 6:00 PM: Juventus sign Manuel Locatelli from Sassuolo

Italy midfielder and EURO 2020 winner Manuel Locatelli has joined Juventus from Sassuolo on an initial two-year loan deal, the clubs announced on Wednesday.

? ➡️

✍️ http://t.co/Ijw91pHjIS
#LocatelliAnnounced pic.twitter.com/AJT368qvJx

�?JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) August 18, 2021

The deal, which included an obligation to buy, could become a permanent transfer in June 2023 for a further three years, with the transfer fee set to be around £32m.

The 23-year-old, who originally joined Sassuolo from AC Milan in 2018, was linked with a move to the Premier League with Arsenal vying for his signature. But Locatelli, however, indicated his preference was to remain in the Serie A and is the Bianconeri's first signing of the summer transfer window.  

August 17, 8:00 PM: Tammy Abraham leaves Premier League to join Jose Mourinho's AS Roma

England striker Tammy Abraham has completed his £34m transfer from Chelsea to AS Roma, the clubs announced on Tuesday, August 17. The 23-year-old has put pen to paper on a five-year contract with the club that runs until 30 June 2026.

New No. 9�?...

Welcome to Roma, @tammyabraham!
#ASRoma | @NBFootball pic.twitter.com/RdxjcL5br5

�?AS Roma English (@ASRomaEN) August 17, 2021

Abraham, who came up through the ranks at Chelsea and registered 30 goals in 82 games across all competitions for the Blues, will don the number nine jersey. Its previous owner was former Manchester City forward Edin Dzeko, who has replaced Romelu Lukaku at Inter Milan following the Belgian's club-record return to Chelsea.

Tammy Abraham will be coached by a familiar face in Jose Mourinho and is Roma's fourth signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Rui Patricio, Eldor Shomurodov and Matias Vina.

August 13, 9:00 PM: Jannik Vestergaard leaves Southampton for Leicester City

Danish defender Jannik Vestergaard has signed for Leicester City in a three-year deal reported to be around £15m. The Danish defender arrives at Leicester after three seasons with Southampton.

#Leicestergaard pic.twitter.com/kadyQ4DJ9w

�?Leicester City (@LCFC) August 13, 2021

Vestergaard will link up with fellow Dutchman and Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, who is said to have convinced the former to sign up for the Foxes.

"I’m very happy and I’m really excited to get going. It’s a special club that has done very well over many years and I think the project is very, very exciting, even from the outside looking in. To be a part of it is a big thing for me," Vestergaard said.

The 29-year-old could make his Leicester City debut as early as Saturday, when the Foxes host Wolves at the King Power Stadium.

August 13, 1:00 PM: Romelu Lukaku re-joins Chelsea in club-record deal

Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku returned to Stamford Bridge after seven years, signing a five-year deal for a club-record fee of £97.5m after two seasons at Inter Milan.

"I came here as a kid who had a lot to learn, now I'm coming back with a lot of experience and more mature," Lukaku said. "I have supported Chelsea as a kid and now to be back and try to help them win more titles is an amazing feeling," the Belgian added.

The fee Chelsea paid to re-sign Lukaku is just short of the British transfer record set by Manchester City earlier this window, when they paid £100m to recruit Jack Grealish from Aston Villa.

In his first spell at Chelsea, Romelu Lukaku Lukaku made 10 appearances without scoring a single goal.

August 11, 9:30 AM: Lionel Messi seals much-anticipated transfer to Paris Saint-Germain

Six-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi has joined French giants Paris Saint-Germain after ending his 21-year association with Barcelona. The Argentine legend, a free agent after his contract expired this summer, has signed a two-year contract with the option of another year.

A new in Paris!

PSGxMESSI ❤️ pic.twitter.com/scrp1su9a6

�?Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) August 10, 2021

The 34-year-old, who scored a record 672 goals in 778 games and won 35 titles with Barcelona, becomes PSG's fourth free signing this summer after Georginio Wijnaldum, Sergio Ramos and goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

"I am impatient to start a new chapter of my career in Paris. The club and its vision are in perfect harmony with my ambitions," Lionel Messi said following the official announcement.

"I know how talented the players and staff are here. I am determined to build, alongside them, something great for the club and for the fans. I can't wait to set foot on the Parc des Princes pitch," he added.

August 8, 6:30 PM: Aston Villa sign Axel Tuanzebe on loan

Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe signed a new contract extension with the club that runs until 2023 and moved to Aston Villa on a season-long loan. It will be his second stint with Villa after having been a part of the team which won the promotion back to the Premier League in 2019.

Tuanzebe becomes Aston Villa's fifth summer signing after Danny Ings, Leon Bailey, Emi Buendia and Ashley Young. They recently sold club captain Jack Grealish to Manchester City for £100m. 

"Axel Tuanzebe will spend the 2021-22 campaign on loan at Aston Villa after agreeing a season-long move to the Premier League club," the club's press release reads.

"The 23-year-old has also signed a new contract at Manchester United, lasting until June 2023 with the option of an additional year's extension.

"Having endured a difficult campaign last time out due to a couple of injuries, the highly-rated centre-back will use this loan as a vital opportunity to assert himself and make an impression.

"Axel will return to the United set-up at the end of the 2021-22 season."

August 7, 12:07 am: Cristian Romero joins Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham have completed the signing of Cristian Romero from Atalanta on a five-year deal, with the club splashing �?5m (£46.7m) for the 23-year-old defender.

It's time to hear from @CutiRomero2... pic.twitter.com/R5IKpojaMB

�?Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) August 6, 2021

Romero becomes the second most expensive signing in Spurs' history with only Tanguy Ndombele costing (£55m) more. Tottenham will pay Atalanta an initial fee of �?0m with the rest being add-ons. Romero won the “best defender�?award in Serie A last season and was also a standout performer at the Copa America this year. His arrival comes after Toby Alderweireld moved to Al-Duhail in Qatar last month.

August 6: 7:00 PM: Manchester City seal British record deal for Jack Grealish

Jack Grealish completed his much-anticipated move from boyhood club Aston Villa to champions Manchester City for a record £100 million deal. The English forward has put pen to paper a six-year year deal, and arrives after registering 32 goals and 43 assists in 213 appearances for Villa.

Ready for the next chapter! So proud to have joined the Premier League champions, can’t wait to get started! pic.twitter.com/snoKdNQSpT

�?Jack Grealish (@JackGrealish) August 5, 2021

Grealish inherits the number 10 jersey at City from the now-departed Sergio Aguero, and will link up with fellow English forward Raheem Sterling at the Etihad Stadium.

August 6: 3:00 PM: Aston Villa confirm Bailey, Ings signings

Aston Villa have brought in two attacking reinforcements in winger Leon Bailey and forward Danny Ings, announcing deals for the players on August 4. While Leon Bailey arrives from Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen, Englishman Ings arrives at Villa Park after three seasons with Southampton.

ℹ️ Leon Bailey has transferred to @AVFCOfficial after 4.5 years in Leverkusen.

Thank you for everything @leonbailey and we wish you all the best in your new challenge! ⚫️❤️ pic.twitter.com/jCYiaVpn9K

�?Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) August 4, 2021

Checking in. @IngsDanny pic.twitter.com/nY98eNoBsD

�?Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) August 5, 2021

Villa have reportedly spent a combined £60 million on their latest arrivals, who are tipped to fill in the void left behind by the imminent departure of club captain Jack Grealish. 

July 30: 10:00 PM: Ben White signs for Arsenal

England defender Ben White has joined Arsenal on a five-year deal from Brighton, with an option to extend for a further year. The England defender has become the Gunners' third-most expensive signing of all time, with the transfer estimated at around £50m.

A new city. A new start.

A new place to call home pic.twitter.com/PLADE7lCUu

�?Arsenal (@Arsenal) July 30, 2021

White is the club's third summer signing, after left-back Nuno Tavares (£8m transfer from Benfica) and midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga (Anderlecht).

July 27: 5:30 PM: Toby Alderweireld completes transfer to Al-Duhail

Belgium defender Toby Alderweireld has completed a permanent transfer to Qatari side Al-Duhail from Tottenham Hotspur, the Premier League side announced on Tuesday.

The 32-year-old, who joined Spurs from Atletico Madrid in 2013, made 236 appearances across all competitions in a six-year spell and was regarded for his partnership with compatriot Jan Vertonghen. The pair registered Tottenham's best defensive record in a Premier League campaign (26 goals conceded) in the 2016/17 season where the Lilywhites finished second.

"It's been an honour to play for Spurs."

Toby's goodbye message. pic.twitter.com/AWWfJAZjcN

�?Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) July 27, 2021

Welcome @AlderweireldTob #AlDuhail ❤️ pic.twitter.com/TcpamH2B7q

�?نادي الدحيل ALDUHAIL (@DuhailSC) July 27, 2021

Toby Alderweireld has signed a three-year deal with Al-Duhail.

July 26: 10:00 PM: Tottenham and Sevilla complete Bryan Gil - Erik Lamela swap deal

Tottenham Hotspur has signed young Spanish winger Bryan Gil on a five-year deal from Sevilla, with Argentina winger Erik Lamela moving in the opposite direction as part of the swap deal.

Spurs have reportedly paid £21m for the 20-year-old Gil, who is currently on national duty with Spain at Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Lamela, who signed for Tottenham in 2013, departs after eight years in England where he registered 37 goals in 255 games.

Gracias, agent @sergio_regui

Welcome to Spurs, @11BryanGil! pic.twitter.com/S9782r48eI

�?Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) July 26, 2021

Welcome to Lagos, @ErikLamela!#WeareSevilla #NeverSurrender pic.twitter.com/3sIOUJ30Vj

�?Sevilla FC (@SevillaFC_ENG) July 26, 2021

July 23: 5:30 PM: Jadon Sancho completes Manchester United switch

England international Jadon Sancho has formally completed his much-anticipated transfer to Manchester United from Borussia Dortmund. A deal for the 21-year-old, which is estimated to be £73 million, was announced by both clubs at the end of June subject to medicals post UEFA Euro 2020.

This is his home.
This is where he belongs.

Jadon Sancho is .#MUFC x @Sanchooo10 pic.twitter.com/LAIBn7ie7V

�?Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 23, 2021

"The chance to join Manchester United is a dream come true and I just cannot wait to perform in the Premier League. This is a young and exciting squad and I know, together, we can develop into something special to bring the success that the fans deserve," Sancho told Manchester United's website.

The England winger also thanked Borussia Dortmund for shaping him into the player that he is today. "I’ll always be grateful to Dortmund for giving me the opportunity to play first-team football, although I always knew that I would return to England one day," the 21-year-old added.

“Jadon epitomises the type of player I want to bring to the club, he is a forward player in the best traditions of Manchester United," said Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

“Old Trafford will give him the platform he needs to release his untapped talent and perform at the highest level. For a player of his age, Jadon has already achieved a great deal and showed the courage to go and prove himself abroad. We all look forward to welcoming Jadon to the squad as we prepare for the new campaign,�?the Red Devils boss added.

Jadon Sancho arrives at Old Trafford with a record of 50 goals and 64 assists in four seasons with Borussia Dortmund and was part of the England team that reached the final of UEFA Euro 2020.

Furthermore, Sancho is now the second most expensive English player of all time behind his new United teammate Harry Maguire.

July 21: 12:00 AM: Everton sign Andros Townsend and Asmir Begovic

Everton have confirmed the signings of Andros Townsend and Asmir Begovic. While Townsend has joined on a two-year deal, 34-year-old Begovic has signed an initial 12-month contract. Both players arrived as free agents following the end of their contracts with Crystal Palace and Bournemouth.

Welcome, @andros_townsend! pic.twitter.com/eWwvhawJKT

�?Everton (@Everton) July 20, 2021

Welcome, @asmir1! pic.twitter.com/VRV9mKpWSX

�?Everton (@Everton) July 20, 2021

Both players come with prior Premier League experience to Goodison Park, while Andros Townsend reunites with manager Rafael Benitez. The pair worked together at Newcastle United and the former Crystal Palace man said it was a 'no-brainer' decision to join the Spaniard at Everton.

July 19: 8:45 PM: Arsenal sign Belgium U-21 international Albert Sambi Lokonga

Arsenal have completed the signing of Belgium U-21 international Albert Sambi Lokonga from Anderlecht. The 21-year-old has signed a long-term contract with the Gunners.

"It's a big move because I have been playing for Anderlecht for 10 years so it's going to be my first big move to another country," Lokonga told Arsenal's website.

"It's a big step, but I feel confident because we have to be. In the football world, you have to feel confident about yourself, but I'm looking to play in this league and I can't wait to start."

So... Albert? Or Sambi?

We asked the man himself pic.twitter.com/ohpQXm2T1W

�?Arsenal (@Arsenal) July 19, 2021

Although the fee is undisclosed, it is said that the Gunners have spent somewhere around £17.2m for the midfielder. Lokonga joined Anderlecht at the age of 15 and made his first-team debut in December 2017. He went on to make 78 appearances for the Belgian side, scoring three goals.

“Albert is a very intelligent player who has shown great maturity,�?said Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.

“He has been coached well by Vincent Kompany and his team at Anderlecht. I know Vincent very well and he talks so highly about Albert and the positive impact he had to Anderlecht in recent seasons.

“We’re confident Albert’s ready for the next stage in his development and we’re looking forward to welcoming a new member to our squad with his quality and presence.�?/p>

July 17: 8 PM: Olivier Giroud ends nine-year England stay to sign with AC Milan

2018 World Cup winner Olivier Giroud has opted for a new challenge as he has sealed a switch to AC Milan from Chelsea. The 34-year-old French centre-forward arrives from England as UEFA Champions League winner and one of the most under-rated strikers in modern football.

Ready to strike �?#NewPlayerUnlocked: @_OlivierGiroud_ �?a href="http://twitter.com/hashtag/SempreMilan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">#SempreMilan pic.twitter.com/pspvgedNGK

�?AC Milan (@acmilan) July 17, 2021

Giroud has signed a two-year deal with the Rosssoneri, and will reunite with former Chelsea defender Fikayo Tomori who earlier completed a permanent transfer to the Serie A giants.

July 15: 11 PM: Ryan Bertrand seals free transfer to Leicester City

English defender Ryan Bertrand has joined Leicester City on a two-year deal, the club announced on Thursday. Bertrand, who spent seven years at Southampton before becoming a free agent, will reunite with Brendan Rodgers who coached him at Chelsea's academy.

#WelcomeRyan! pic.twitter.com/MYu7vYGSSy

�?Leicester City (@LCFC) July 15, 2021

The 31-year-old is the Foxes' third signing of the summer transfer window and comes in with the experience of over 240 games in the Premier League. Bertrand, who started his career at Chelsea, has won an FA Cup, UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League in his career and will could make his league debut against Wolves on August 14.  

July 14: 11:30 AM: PSG sign Gianluigi Donnarumma on free transfer

Ligue 1 club Paris St-Germain have completed the signing of Italy national football team goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma on a free transfer.

The 22-year-old, who was adjudged the player of the tournament at UEFA Euro 2020, have signed a five-year deal with PSG after his contract expired at AC Milan.

Buongiorno #WelcomeGigiopic.twitter.com/ZTpxzdLJTi

�?Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) July 14, 2021

"I am delighted to be part of this huge club," Donnarumma told PSG's club website. "I feel ready to take on this new challenge and continue to grow here. With Paris, I want to win as much as possible and to bring joy to the supporters."

July 14: 7:00 PM: Rui Patricio signs for Roma, Wolves rope in Sa as his replacement

Jose Mourinho's AS Roma have announced the signing of Portugal goalkeeper Rui Patricio from Premier League side Wolves. The 33-year-old has inked a three-year deal for a reported fee of £9.8m. Patricio leaves Wolves after three seasons, where he registered 31 clean sheets in 112 Premier League outings.

New No. 1�?...

Welcome to Roma, Rui Patricio!
#ASRoma | @NBFootball pic.twitter.com/otd2nDvqDc

�?AS Roma English (@ASRomaEN) July 13, 2021

Rui Patricio will be replaced by compatriot Jose Sa at Wolves, with the 28-year-old custodian arriving from Olympiakos as a two-time league champion. Sa has signed a five-year contract that will see him stay at the Molineux Stadium at least till 2026.

✍️ #SaSigns pic.twitter.com/vGMSV5nn7d

�?Wolves (@Wolves) July 15, 2021

July 10: 5:30 PM: Arsenal sign Nuno Tavares as Kieron Tierney back-up

Portuguese U21 defender Nuno Tavares became Arsenal's first signing of the season as he joined the Gunners from Benfica for a reported fee of £8m. Coming through the ranks of the Benfica youth system, Navares has made 25 senior appearances for the club since August 2019.

Welcome to The Arsenal, Nuno Tavares pic.twitter.com/379qyLXrxG

�?Arsenal (@Arsenal) July 10, 2021

With Arsenal struggling to fill the gap left by an injured Tierney last season, Mikel Arteta made a backup left-back his priority this season. With Sead Kolasinac leaving the club soon, Navares is the first signing signalling Arsenal's rebuild under Edu and Arteta.

July 9: 4:30 PM: Michael Olise joins Crystal Palace as Vieira's first signing

Patrick Vieira has begun his Crystal Palace era with the signature of highly-rated midfielder Michael Olise from Reading. The 19-year-old, who won the EFL's Young Player of the Season award in the 2020-21 season, joins the Eagles on a five-year contract after registering seven goals and 12 assists in 46 games last term.

On recruiting Olise, Vieira said, “We have the tools in our football club to make him (Michael Olise) a better player, and we’ve known him quite well because he’s a player the football club have been following for a long time. I think it is important to refresh the squad, to bring some new faces, to bring young talent here, and this is a really good signing for us.�?/span>

English-born Michael Olise, who represents France at the international level, started his youth career with Chelsea and Manchester City before moving to Championship side Reading. An academy graduate, Olise made his first-team debut in March 2019 against Leeds United, aged just 17.

July 7: 2:30 PM: Sergio Ramos joins PSG

Paris Saint-Germain have completed their second summer signing in two days, with former Real Madrid captain, Sergio Ramos arriving in the capital city on a two-year contract. 

“I am very happy to join Paris Saint-Germain," Ramos was quoted as saying by PSG. “This is a big change in my life, a new challenge and it’s a day I will never forget. I am very proud to be a part of this ambitious project, to be a part of this squad with so many great players."

̃ ! ✍️

#WelcomeSergio
pic.twitter.com/n6vciD7YxU

�?Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) July 8, 2021

“Paris Saint-Germain is a club that has already proven itself at the highest level. I want to continue to grow and improve at Paris and help the team to win as many trophies as possible," he added.

Ramos captained Madrid between 2015 and 2021 and during his 16-year stint with the club he won five La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League honours.

July 6: 10:00 PM: PSG sign Achraf Hakimi

Paris Saint-Germain have completed the signing of Morocco full-back Achraf Hakimi from Inter on a five-year contract. Hakimi was also a target for Chelsea, who matched PSG's �?0m bid for the player. BBC claims that the Blues wanted to include Marcos Alonso as part of the deal too. But the personal terms between PSG and the player were agreed more than a month ago.

"I feel a lot of pride today. After my experiences in Spain, Germany and Italy, Paris Saint-Germain offers me the opportunity to discover a new championship under the colours of one of the most prestigious clubs in the world," said Hakimi after completing the move.

✍️ #WelcomeAchraf@AchrafHakimi

❤️ # pic.twitter.com/w0TrN39JvI

�?Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) July 6, 2021

Fabrizio Romano says that Inter will receive a direct payment of �?0m while the other variables include �?m easy add ons, �?m difficult add ons.

"I can't wait to meet my new team-mates, the fans and feel the extraordinary fervour that reigns at the Parc des Princes.

"I share the same very high ambitions with the staff and the players and will do everything to give my club what it expects of me. "

July 6: 4:30 PM: Matteo Guendouzi joins Marseille on loan

Arsenal and Marseille have reached an agreement over the transfer of 22-year-old midfielder Matteo Guendouzi on a season-long loan. The French team has an option to make his deal permanent in the summer of 2022.

Guendouzi spent the 2020/21 season on loan at Hertha Berlin, making 24 appearances in all competitions. The midfielder joined Arsenal from French side Lorient in 2018 for a fee reported to be worth £7m plus bonuses. He went on to make 82 appearances for the Gunners in his two years with the club.

"Matteo Guendouzi has signed up with Marseille for a one-year loan with an option to buy," read an official statement from Marseille.

┈┈┈┈╭╯╰╰╰╰╰╮┈┈�?br />┈┈┈┈▕╭▅╮╭▅╮▏┈┈�?br />┈▕▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▏�?br />╭━�?a href="http://twitter.com/MatteoGuendouzi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">@matteoguendouzi╭━�?br />┃┳�?┈est Olympien�?╰┳�?br />┃┣�?┈┈ ⚪️ ┈┈┈▕┫┃
╰▕▂▂▂▂▂▂▂▂▂▂▂▏�?pic.twitter.com/trk3WAKEDC

�?Olympique de Marseille (@OM_Officiel) July 6, 2021

"Guendouzi is a modern midfielder, technically strong and with good passing ability. 

"A player of character, he has a good view of the game. These qualities he will undoubtedly be able to share with the Marseille team."

According to Goal, Marseille have made an initial payment of £850,000 for the midfielder, and if they decide to trigger the clause of a permanent move, they will have to pay £9 million.

July 4: 6:40 PM: Patrick Vieira appointed as Crystal Palace manager

Former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira has signed a three-year deal to succeed veteran English manager Roy Hodgson as Crystal Palace manager.

The 45-year-old Frenchman, who was last seen as the head coach of Ligue 1 side Nice, emerged as a top candidate to replace Hogdson after former Borussia Dortmund manager Lucien Favre pulled out of the race to become Palace manager.

Vieira previously managed Major League Soccer (MLS) team New York City from 2016 to 2018 before a two-and-a-half season stint with Nice, which ended in December 2020.

Proud and excited to be part of this new journey. I want to thank the @CPFC board for their trust & thank the fans for the amount of support I've been getting for the past few days. I can't wait to see you there, back where it all started @premierleague. Come on you Eagles ❤️ pic.twitter.com/fa8BO6LZgW

�?Patrick Vieira (@OfficialVieira) July 4, 2021

July 2: 4:30 PM: Manchester United sign Tom Heaton

Veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton has completed his move to Manchester United on a two-year deal, the club has officially confirmed. 

July 1: 7:15 PM: Jadon Sancho moves to Manchester United

Manchester United have finally confirmed the signing of England winger Jadon Sancho from Borussia Dortmund for a fee worth £73m. It is said that the 21-year-old will undergo a medical after England's run in the ongoing UEFA Euro 2020.

"Manchester United is delighted to announce it has reached agreement in principle with Borussia Dortmund for the transfer of Jadon Sancho," the Premier League club said in a statement.

"The signing is subject to contractual terms and a medical, which will be completed after Jadon's involvement in the UEFA European Championship."

It took Manchester United immense bargain to confirm the move as Dortmund initially demanded £85m for the player. Be that as it may, the asking price was lower than their previous price tag of £108m from last summer.

According to Fabrizio Romano, the 21-year-old will sign a contract until 2026, with an option of extending it to another year. Furthermore, his former club, Manchester City will receive around �?3m as part of the deal.

July 1: 1:15 AM: Nuno Espirito Santo signs for Tottenham

Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed the appointment of former Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo as their new manager, with the 47-year-old signing a two-year deal with the north London club.

Spurs were on the lookout for a new manager following the conclusion of the 2020/21 Premier League season. They reportedly held talks with Antonio Conte, Mauricio Pochettino, Paulo Fonseca, Gennaro Gattuso and Julen Lopetegui, but nothing really materialized. The Lilly Whites opened talks with Santo's camp only last week.

Looking good, boss. #WelcomeNuno pic.twitter.com/SdxXNnsZFs

�?Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) June 30, 2021

"When you have a squad with quality and talent, we want to make the fans proud and enjoy," Nuno told Spurs' club website.

"It's an enormous pleasure and honour [to be here], there's joy and I'm happy and looking forward to starting work. We don't have any days to lose and we must start working immediately as pre-season starts in a few days."

June 30: 5:00 PM: Rafa Benitez appointed as new Everton manager

Former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez returns to Merseyside after 11 years, signing a three-year deal to become the new Everton boss until 2024. The Spanish coach has been out of work after mutually terminating his contract with Chinese Super League (CSL) team Dalian Professional earlier this year.

Our new manager. pic.twitter.com/1FulLthzyF

�?Everton (@Everton) June 30, 2021

With this move, Benitez joins William Edward Barclay as the only two football managers to be in the hot seat at Liverpool and Everton.

June 30: 4:30 PM: Leicester City sign RB Salzburg's Patson Daka

Leicester City have announced that RB Salzburg striker Patson Daka will join the Premier League club on a five-year contract. The 22-year-old Zambian international, who netted 68 goals in 125 appearances for Salzburg in all competitions, arrives in the English top-flight league having guided his former employers to four successive league titles.

We can confirm that exciting young striker @PatsonDaka20 will join the Club on a five-year-deal from 1 July, subject to Premier League and international clearance #WelcomePatson

�?Leicester City (@LCFC) June 30, 2021

Patson Daka, who will link up with his new club from July 1, is the latest RB Salzburg star to complete a move to the Premier League, after Liverpool trio Sadio Mane, Naby Keita and Takumi Minamino. 

June 22: 10:05 PM: Hakan Calhanoglu joins Inter from AC Milan

Serie A champions Inter Milan have announced the signing of Turkish midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu from city rival AC Milan on a free transfer. The 27-year-old has signed a three-year contract with Inter lasting until 30 June 2024. 

| #WELCOMEHAKAN@hakanc10 �? pic.twitter.com/CrZMVrbR20

�?Inter (@Inter_id) June 22, 2021

"It's a great thing, we know that Inter are a great team, a great club with a nice atmosphere, and great fans," Calhanoglu said.

"I'm very happy to be here, I'm going on vacation now, but I already have good feelings. We want to win the Scudetto this year too, so we'll see," the midfielder added.

June 19: 10:25 PM: Depay joins Barcelona for free

The Netherlands winger Memphis Depay has joined La Liga giants Barcelona on a free transfer, ending his four-year stay at Ligue 1 club Olympique Lyonnais. The 27-year-old has inked a two-year contract with the Catalan club that will run till the end of the 2022/23 season. Depay is currently involved with Holland in the ongoing EURO 2020, and has scored one goal in two games.

✒️ Heart of a Lion
❤️ pic.twitter.com/F7YZw6Y71m

�?FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) June 19, 2021

June 17: 4:00 PM: Buffon rejoins Parma

Legendary Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has returned to his boyhood club Parma after 20 years. The 43-year-old stopper has signed a two-year deal with the club which he joined as a 13-year-old. He eventually made his Serie A debut with the club at the age of 17. 

"He is back where he belongs. He is back home," wrote Parma in a tweet.

He is back where he belongs.
He is back home.#SupermanReturns @gianluigibuffon @Kyle_J_Krause @ParmaCalcio_en pic.twitter.com/bh2FO6P8YX

�?Parma Calcio 1913 (@1913parmacalcio) June 17, 2021

June 10: 6:30 PM: Georginio Wijnaldum signs for PSG

Paris Saint-Germain have announced the signing of former Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum on a free transfer for a deal that will run until 2024. The Netherlands midfielder is expected to earn �?.5m per season as reported by Fabrizio Romano. Wijnaldum was a long-term target for FC Barcelona and the Catalan club were hopeful of acquiring his services, but a last-minute swoop from PSG, who offered doubled salary, took the deal away from Barcelona.

✍️ #WelcomeGini@GWijnaldum

#WeAreParispic.twitter.com/qHd7Se42cV

�?Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) June 10, 2021

"Paris Saint-Germain is delighted to announce the transfer of Georginio Wijnaldum," said PSG in an official statement. "Arriving from Liverpool, the Netherlands international midfielder has signed with the club from the French capital until 30 June 2024.

June 7: 5:45 PM: Buendia seals club-record Aston Villa move

Aston Villa have agreed on a club-record 33 million pound deal with Premier League newcomers Norwich City for the transfer of Argentina midfielder Emiliano Buendia. The 24-year-old, who was the Canaries' player of the season as they sealed a return to the English top-flight league, has inked a deal that will keep him with Villa until June 2026.

Aston Villa and Norwich City have reached an agreement for the transfer of Emiliano Buendía.

�?Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) June 7, 2021

The deal, which could rise to 38 million with add-ons, was announced by both clubs on Monday with Buendia set to complete his medicals after Argentina's World Cup qualifying game against Colombia on Tuesday night. 

June 3: 4:30 PM: Inzaghi appointed as Conte's successor at Inter

Serie A champions, Inter, have confirmed that former Lazio manager Simone Inzaghi has been appointed as Antonio Conte's successor. The 45-year-old has signed a two-year contract with the club.

"FC Internazionale Milano would like to welcome Simone Inzaghi to the club, as our new first-team coach: the Italian manager has signed a two-year deal with the Nerazzurri," read an official statement from the club.

It was on May 27 that Antonio Conte left Inter by mutual consent after a disagreement with the board. It is said that the former Chelsea coach was asked to cut his wage bill to 15-20 per cent and sell players worth up to £70m in the upcoming transfer window. While Conte has left, the problem still persists, with Inzaghi being at the centre of it.

Striker Romelu Lukaku has attracted interest from across Europe while Lautaro Martinez is yet to sign a new contract. Wing-back Achraf Hakimi is gathering from Paris Saint-Germain too. 

June 2: 2:40 PM: Barcelona sign Emerson Royal

Only a day after completing the deal for Eric Garcia, Barcelona completed their third signing for the 2021/22 season by exercising their option to buy for Emerson Royal from Real Betis. The 22-year-old right-back has signed a contract until 2024 with the Spanish club. The Brazil international arrived in La Liga in January 2019 in a joint financial operation between Barcelona and Real Betis. Each club paid half of his transfer fee. 

See you on the other side @Emerson_Royal22 #EmersonCuler pic.twitter.com/z6H4U3FGCi

�?FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) June 2, 2021

Barcelona exercised their option to buy the player for �? million. The 22-year-old right-back made 79 appearances in all competitions for Betis, scoring five goals and providing 10 assists. 

June 1: 12:30 PM: Eric Garcia rejoins FC Barcelona

La Liga giants FC Barcelona have confirmed that they have signed back defender Eric Garcia from Manchester City. The 20-year-old player will sign a contract until the end of the 2025/26 season and his buy out clause is set at 400 million euros. 

The defender joined the Barça Academy in 2008 and continued his development at La Masia until 2017 when he left for Manchester City where he spent four seasons featuring at U-19, U-23 level and for the first team.  

Home is where the heart is. pic.twitter.com/FQRV2L4n4R

�?FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) June 1, 2021

May 31: 7:30 PM: Sergio Aguero signs for Barcelona

Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero has finalised his move to FC Barcelona, joining the Catalan club on a free transfer. The Argentina striker has signed a deal that will keep him with Barcelona until the end of the 2022/23 season. Barcelona have explicitly mentioned that his 'buy out clause is set at 100 million euros'. 

AGÜEROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO pic.twitter.com/LHIsGVRzsV

�?FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona_es) May 31, 2021

Aguero leaves City as a club legend and their all-time top scorer. Since making his Premier League debut in the 2011-12 season, the forward made 390 appearances for the Cityzens, scoring 260. During his 10-year stint with the Manchester club, Aguero won five Premier League titles, six League Cups and one FA Cup. He came close to winning the UEFA Champions League this season, but fell short as City lost to Chelsea 1-0 in the final.

May 28: 09:30 PM: David Alaba joins Real Madrid from Bayern Munich

Real Madrid have confirmed the signing of defender David Alaba on a five-year contract after leaving Bayern Munich. Alaba will be presented as a Real player after Euro 2020, the statement added.

The 28-year-old is leaving Bayern after 431 games in 13 years at the club, where he won 10 German titles and the Champions League twice.

#WelcomeAlaba pic.twitter.com/acS6QDtNkb

�?Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) May 28, 2021

May 28: 06:30 PM: Massimiliano Allegri returns as Juventus manager after Andrea Pirlo sacking

Juventus have appointed Massimiliano Allegri for the second time after the Turin giants sacked coach Andrea Pirlo following a single season in charge. Allegri won five Serie A titles in a row in his first spell in Turin between 2014 and 2019, as well as lifting the Coppa Italia four times and finishing as Champions League runners-up twice.

Bentornato, Max! ⚪⚫#AllegriIN

�?JuventusFC (@juventusfc) May 28, 2021

May 28: 05:42 PM: Liverpool sign defender Ibrahima Konate from RB Leipzig

Premier League club Liverpool have announced that they have signed centre back Ibrahima Konate from German side RB Leipzig on Friday. The Reds triggered the reported 36 million pounds (50 million dollars) release clause in the 22-year-old's Leipzig contract to seal his switch to Anfield. 

Quality and potential

�?Liverpool FC (@LFC) May 28, 2021

May 27: 07:18 PM: AC Milan sign Lille's Mike Maignan to replace Gianluigi Donnarumma

Serie A giant AC Milan have signed goalkeeper Mike Maignan from French champions Lille on a five-year contract. The 25-year-old is set to replace Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. 

Official Statement: @mmseize �?http://t.co/MIwn2c65hp

Comunicato Ufficiale: Mike Maignan �?http://t.co/hZ2oj2NYzp #SempreMilan pic.twitter.com/TSSX56sTX4

�?AC Milan (@acmilan) May 27, 2021

While free agent Lionel Messi has been dominating the headlines after his previous contract with Barcelona FC expired on Wednesday, it’s worth noting that the 2021-22 summer transfer window has a plethora of serial winners who have run out of contracts and are available for free.

The conclusion of the 2020-21 European football season spelt the end of numerous top footballers�?associations with clubs that they served and won titles with for a lengthy spell. From Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos to AC Milan’s Gianluigi Donnarumma, there are plenty of top players who are on the market for free in the summer transfer window.

Here is a list of the top five footballers, who can be signed for free during this transfer window.

David Luiz

The former Arsenal FC, Chelsea FC and Paris Saint-Germain defender is looking for a new club. The 34-year-old Brazilian defender has won one Premier League as well as a UEFA Champions League title with Chelsea and two Ligue 1 titles with PSG. A centre-back who excels in long-range passing, David Luiz's most successful stint came with Chelsea where he scored 18 goals and provided 12 assists. He also has more than 50 caps for the Brazil national team.

Sergio Ramos

The former Real Madrid skipper is probably the most decorated name on this list. In his 16-year-long glittering career with Los Blancos, Sergio Ramos won La Liga five times and the UEFA Champions League four times. With the Spain national football team, Ramos has won the FIFA World Cup once and the UEFA Euro Cup twice. He also boasts 104 club career goals and 40 assists. Having played alongside some of the best footballers, Ramos is the biggest free agent available in the transfer market at the moment.

Jerome Boateng

Yet another FIFA World Cup winner who is looking for a club is Germany's Jerome Boateng, whose contract with Bundesliga giants FC Bayern Munich ended last month. With two UEFA Champions League winners medals and nine Bundesliga titles to his name, the 32-year-old veteran can be an enormous addition to any club. The robust centre-back also scored 10 goals and provided 25 assists during his time with Bayern.

Diego Costa

A proven striker in the most competitive leagues in Europe, Diego Costa is another prominent name on this list. The 32-year-old Spaniard had severed his ties with current La Liga winners Atletico Madrid in January earlier this year and has since been searching for a new club. Diego Costa has won two Premier League, two La Ligas and one UEFA Europa League title in what’s been a glittering career. The robust centre-forward, who scored 83 goals for Atletico and 58 goals for Chelsea, still remains a lethal option for upfront.

Gianluigi Donnarumma

The most promising name on this list, Gianluigi Donnarumma is just 22-year-old and has 30 caps for the Italian national football team already. An AC Milan academy product, Donnarumma burst onto the scene in 2015 when his steady reflexes and shot-stopping ability between the sticks drew a lot of attention. The towering shot-stopper has since grown in stature and is currently the second-best custodian in UEFA Euro 2020 after England's Jordan Pickford in terms of goals conceded.

Featured photo: AFP / PIERRE-PHILIPPE MARCOU

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos has been left out of Spain’s 24-member squad for the upcoming UEFA Euro 2020.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, each participating team was allowed to have 26 players in the squad, but Spain coach Luis Enrique opted to name a 24-man contingent instead and left out Sergio Ramos.

"Ramos has not been able to compete this season, he has not been able to train with the group. I called him last night, it was difficult and hard,�?Enrique told reporters while explaining his decision.

“I clearly see that it’s a complicated decision. I recommended that he be selfish and that he regains his level to play in his club and in the national team.�?/span>

In his absence, Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets has been named captain of the Spain national football team. The former Barcelona coach, Enrique, in fact, decided not to include any player from Real Madrid in the team; this includes Nacho Fernandez, Dani Carvajal and Marco Asensio. Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Aarrizabalaga missed out on making the cut too. 

“It is possible (to leave them out) as players like Dani Carvajal and Sergio Ramos [had] injuries during the season.

“Apart from that I cannot pick the squad based on whether some people will be happy or not.�?/span>

It is the first time in history that no Real Madrid player will play a major tournament for Spain. For Ramos, he had not missed an international tournament for Spain since his appearance in Euro 2004. 

His 2020/21 season, however, was plagued with unfortunate injuries. He was out for a total of 35 matches across all competitions for Real Madrid and played the full 90 minutes in just three games in 2021.

Taking Ramos�?position are Manchester City center-backs Eric Garcia and Aymeric Laporte. Garcia played just 12 games for the Premier League champions this season while Laporte’s season was also disrupted with injuries.

“The Aymeric Laporte decision has nothing to do with the Ramos situation,�?Enrique said.

“He is a top player, can help our national team a lot, plays at one of the best clubs in history. Please don’t mix Ramos not being in the squad with call-ups for others. I'd have liked him to be here, to have recovered.�?/span>

Spain are in Group E alongside Sweden, Poland and Slovakia for Euro 2020. They begin their campaign against Sweden on June 15 (per IST) at the Estadio de La Cartuja in Sevilla.

Spain football squad for Euro 2020

Goalkeepers: David De Gea, Unai Simon, Robert Sanchez

Defenders: Aymeric Laporte, Jordi Alba, Jose Gaya, Pau Torres, Eric Garcia, Diego Llorente, Cesar Azpilicueta, Marcos Llorente

Midfielders: Sergio Busquets, Rodri, Pedri, Thiago, Koke, Fabian

Forwards: Dani Olmo, Mikel Oyarzabal, Alvaro Morata, Gerard Moreno, Ferran Torres, Adama Traore, Pablo Sarabia

Featured photo: AFP / Mladen Antonov

Thirteen-time champions Real Madrid host six-time winners Liverpool FC in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League 2020-21 quarter-final at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stefano in the small hours of Wednesday (as per Indian Standard Time).

Zinedine Zidane’s men are looking to defend their La Liga title as they are currently three points behind table-toppers Atletico Madrid. The Los Blancos have been in good form as they have remained unbeaten in their last 11 matches, winning nine of those fixtures. 

Real Madrid will depend on their talisman Karim Benzema, who has scored 24 goals in all competitions, including 11 in the past 10 games. Watch Real Madrid vs Liverpool live in India!

On the other hand, Liverpool will look to avenge their 3-1 loss in the 2017-18 UEFA Champions League final.

The Reds, however, have struggled for consistency throughout the season as they are placed in the sixth spot in the Premier League points table and are currently two points behind fourth-placed Chelsea. 

In the Real Madrid vs Liverpool head-to-head record in the UEFA Champions League, both the teams have won three games apiece in the six matches played between these two footballing giants.

Real Madrid team news

The hosts have suffered a massive blow as their talismanic captain Sergio Ramos has been ruled out of the UCL match due to a calf injury that he picked up on international duty. Not only that but his partner in central defence, Raphael Varane, will be missing the fixture as, well after testing positive for the global virus. 

Real Madrid will also miss the services of their record signing Eden Hazard, who has been ravaged by injuries since joining the club from Chelsea in 2019. Furthermore, Dani Carvajal and Federico Valverde have also been sidelined against Liverpool.

Liverpool FC team news

Liverpool will be without their first-choice central defenders Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez. The visitors will also be without their captain Jordan Henderson and Joel Matip, which further adds to their defensive woes.

Divock Origi and Caoimhin Kelleher have also been ruled out of this UCL match.

Where to watch Real Madrid vs Liverpool live in India?

The Real Madrid vs Liverpool UCL match will be telecast live at 12:30 AM IST on Sony TEN 2, Sony TEN 2 HD, Sony SIX and Sony SIX HD TV channels in India, on Wednesday, April 7.

Live streaming of Real Madrid vs Liverpool will be available on SonyLIV along with other UEFA Champions League quarter-final clashes.

SportsAdda will bring you Real Madrid vs Liverpool live scores.

For Real Madrid vs Liverpool football odds and betting, visit Sportsbet.io and look under Top Events - International Clubs - UEFA Champions League.

Feature image courtesy: Paul ELLIS / AFP

Spanish left-back Sergio Reguilon is heading to the Premier League but will be joining Tottenham Hotspur and not Manchester United, as had been widely speculated for most of the transfer window.

The Red Devils seemed in pole position to secure Reguilon’s signature but were unwilling to meet Real Madrid’s asking price and their condition of including a buyback clause for the player �?which proved to be a major stumbling block in the deal between the clubs.

Tottenham have conceded to Real Madrid BOTH clauses they’ve asked for Reguilon: buy back and pre-emption.#MUFC have always refused any clause to bring back the player - it was the main issue. ⚪️ #THFC

The final price of the clauses and more details: http://t.co/CrRIIC5XOA

�?Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 16, 2020

Spurs�?acceptance of Madrid’s terms paved the way for a swift deal for Reguilon, leaving United a bit red-faced and with the feeling of being used to entice more bidders for the player.

It isn’t the first time United have been left in this position by Madrid and history suggests that it won’t be the last. The truth is the Red Devils and Los Blancos haven’t been on the best of terms for some time now and this latest episode is just another reminder of that.

The seeds of mistrust

The souring of the two football giants�?relationship, in fact, can be traced all the way back to 2008 when then United manager Sir Alex Ferguson took offence to nature of Madrid’s pursuit of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Unimpressed by the tactics used by Madrid to lure Ronaldo to the Bernabeu, Ferguson labelled the Spanish heavyweights as the ‘mob�?and said that ‘I wouldn't sell them a virus�?let alone Ronaldo.

Ultimately Ferguson managed to ward off the Spanish outfit’s interest for another year before Ronaldo joined Los Blancos for 80m pounds �?then a world record transfer fee �?in 2009. It was here that seeds of animosity between the two clubs started to grow.

Fasttrack to 2013 in the post-Fergie era and the relationships between the two began to get even more strained following the last-minute collapse of a move that would have seen Portuguese left-back Fábio Coentrão join United from Madrid.

The next episode in the already fractured relationship between the two teams came in the form of Angel Di Maria, who Los Blancos were eager to get rid off from their books despite the Argentine's dazzling display in their Champions League triumph.

Sensing the mood at the Spanish capital, Di Maria was ready for a move away from the club and wanted to join Paris Saint-Germain. However, Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations meant that it wasn’t possible for PSG to bid for Di Maria in that transfer window.

As a result, Di Maria was shipped off to United and in hindsight, it now looks like a stop-gap both Real and the Argentine were possibly aware of. Di Maria would go on to spend just 12 destabilizing months at Old Trafford before joining PSG in the following summer to leave United and their fans with a bitter taste on the tongue.

A dodgy fax machine

However, the tipping point in the relationship between the clubs came in the summer of 2016 when United goalkeeper David de Gea looked destined to join Real only for a deadline day collapse due to paperwork not being submitted in time, which has since been infamously blamed on a faulty fax machine.

The cold stand-off between the two clubs only intensified over the next summer when United outbid Real to sign French midfielder Paul Pogba, who had long been on Los Blancos�?radar.

Real captain Sergio Ramos�?future was another flashpoint in the tumultuous relationship between the teams. While angling for a salary hike and contract extension at Real, Ramos made it clear that he was ready to join the red side of Manchester.

Reguilon not the first Sergio that got away

It even looked like he was United-bound at one stage, but Real came good at the last minute and secured their captain’s future to leave United a bit embarrassed and with the feeling of being used solely for the purpose of getting a better deal.

"There was an offer from United," Ramos told COPE. "I considered changing for a while but Real Madrid was always my priority and there were no economic reasons."

That feeling seems to have resurfaced in the ongoing transfer window with another Sergio who is on Madrid’s books. United for the longest part looked like they were to get their man but once again Real seem to have played their hand perfectly.

Not only will Spurs meet Madrid’s asking price of 30m euros for Reguilon, they have also agreed to insert the buyback clause that Real wanted in the contract �?a major obstacle to the deal for United.

With Reguilon now London-bound, it’s important for United to ask themselves if it’s worth being dragged into business with Madrid. Going by their past record, the Red Devils have been used to drum up interest for Madrid and their players more than once.

Reguilon is merely the latest chapter in a long and dodgy recent past that the clubs share. United will do well to finally learn from this experience and ensure that they don’t continue repeating their naïve mistakes while dealing with Real Madrid �?a club which unlike United is way more competent in dealing in transfers and contract extensions behind the scenes.

Feature image courtesy: AFP / Lars Baron

Sergio Ramos scored his 22nd consecutive penalty on Sunday as Real Madrid held on for another 1-0 win over Athletic Bilbao to inch closer to winning La Liga. 

Ramos' fifth goal in seven games since the restart gives Madrid a four-point lead over Barcelona, who defeated Villarreal 4-1 on Sunday.

This was Madrid's toughest fixture left and they might have been content even with a point against a robust, well-organised Bilbao side. 

But after edging out Getafe on Thursday, through a Ramos spot-kick, Madrid repeated the trick at San Mames, their captain's nerve from the spot combining with a gutsy display to grind out a pivotal win. 

Ramos was perhaps fortunate not to concede a penalty himself when, off the ball, he seemed to slip and tread on the foot of Raul Garcia, but Madrid escaped. 

Instead, the defender's 10th goal of the season, the best tally of his career, gave Madrid their third 1-0 win in a row, as well as a fourth consecutive clean sheet. 

"It's a massive win," said Ramos. "We knew today was going to be one of the biggest games that we have left. It's always a difficult game away at Bilbao and we saw it like that. We're happy with another crucial three points that put more pressure on Barcelona." 

Ramos said he is always confident on penalties. 

"In those moments of doubt that's when I feel most comfortable. I wanted to take the responsibility," he said. "But if I wanted individual recognition I would play tennis." 

Bilbao's Iker Munain said Madrid had again been lucky with decisions. 

"We're not going to win it thanks to the referees," said Ramos. "People have to look at themselves and be critical of their own performances. Based on the points, it seems we're doing well at the moment." 

Madrid were without key players, with Raphael Varane nursing a neck injury and Eden Hazard out with pain in his ankle. 

Eder Militao replaced Varane while Marco Asensio made his first start in 14 months up front. 

There were chances at both ends in the first half and Bilbao had the best of them. Williams twice went close but was denied by a block by Marcelo and then a superb tackle by Militao while Raul Garcia's header was pushed out by Thibaut Courtois. 

Karim Benzema would have had a tap-in had Dani Carvajal executed a cushioned pass across the box but his touch was too high.

Asensio's free-kick had created the chance and he swung in two more brilliant crosses before half-time, only for Rodrygo and Benzema to miss with their heads. 

The second half was tighter as both teams slowed in the heat and a more cautious contest seemed to suit Madrid, whose moment came in the 73rd minute. 

Marcelo was rewarded for a lung-busting run into the box, where he reached the ball just ahead of Dani Garcia, who twisted his body into the left-back and bundled him over. 

Referee Jose Gonzalez consulted VAR and awarded the penalty, which Ramos whipped into the bottom corner. 

Bilbao looked tired and never really threatened an equaliser but could have been gifted one had Ramos been penalised for the clumsy collision with Raul Garcia. Ramos survived and Madrid held on. 

Feature image courtesy: AFP / Gabriel Bouys