Latest news with #DiogoCosta
Yahoo
23-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Manchester City Are Eyeing A Move For This Talented Keeper: Good Option For Pep?
In a recent report, Fichajes stated that Manchester City are eyeing a move for FC Porto keeper Diogo Costa this summer. It has been stated that the Mancunian club have identified the Portuguese goalie as a target for this transfer window. Costa's Impressive Form In Portuguese Football Costa enjoyed an excellent run of form at the Portuguese club after he put in a handful of impressive displays for them in Liga Portugal. The 25-year-old conceded 45 goals and kept 19 clean sheets in 43 matches for FC Porto last season across all competitions. The gifted talent proved his worth as one of the best keepers in Portuguese football. He even distributed the ball relatively well from the back based on his pass completion rate of 83.1% in Liga Portugal (stats via His current contract at the Portuguese club will run out in the summer of 2027. Hence, it won't be easy for Man City to get a deal done for him on the cheap this off-season. ATLANTA, GEORGIA – JUNE 19: Diogo Costa #99 of FC Porto arrives at the stadium prior to the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group A match between Internacional CF Miami and FC Porto at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on June 19, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) Will Costa Be A Good Option For Manchester City Boss Pep Guardiola? Costa is a solid handler of the ball and can be a safe pair of hands in between the sticks as he can use his quick reflexes to make a few solid saves at the back. The Portuguese sensation can even use his strong 1.86m frame to dominate his penalty area. Costa is a tidy passer of the ball as well. However, it remains to be seen whether he can make a smooth transition to life in the Premier League. Costa would undoubtedly enhance the quality of Man City head coach Pep Guardiola's first XI. He is more than capable of serving as a decent replacement for Ederson at the Mancunian club. At 25, Costa has his best years ahead of him which makes him a good option for Man City to consider in this summer transfer window. He might even help the Mancunian giants challenge for a lot of major trophies over the next few years. Thus, Guardiola should focus on trying everything in his power to lure him to the Etihad Stadium ahead of the new campaign.
Yahoo
22-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Ederson fielding eye-watering financial offers from Saudi Arabia and Turkey
Manchester City's mainstay number one goalkeeper is weighing up blockbuster financial proposals from both Saudi Arabia and Turkey, it has been reported. This is not the first time Ederson has been linked with a potential move away from the Etihad Stadium, after the Brazilian was subject to serious interest from Saudi clubs last summer, but ultimately remained in Manchester for the 2024/25 season. With just one full season remaining on his current contract and a potential long-term successor reportedly identified — with FC Porto's Diogo Costa heavily linked in recent weeks — the situation around Ederson's future is reaching a new level of intensity. Despite having completed eight full seasons at City, winning every major honour in the game including the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup, Ederson is now considering a lucrative final chapter to his career. The 32-year-old's stature, experience, and distribution continue to attract top-level interest from across Europe and the Middle East, and with one eye perhaps on one last challenge at the top of the game, a move could appeal given the proposals reportedly emerging. According to the latest information provided by Fanatik journalist Yakup Çınar, as translated by Sport Witness, Galatasaray and an unnamed Saudi Arabian club have now made moves for the Manchester City goalkeeper. Çınar claims that a massive offer has come in from a club in the Saudi Pro League, but if the Brazil international were to ultimately sign for Galatasaray then he would be looking for a salary of €15 million a season. The Turkish journalist said: 'Galatasaray made contact with Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson last week through Gardi. There is an offer of €25 million per year for the player from Arabia. He is demanding a salary of €15 million from Galatasaray.' From the side of the UEFA Champions League-positioned club, it has been widely reported in recent weeks that Galatasaray are looking to a sign an experienced new number one choice goalkeeper after Fernando Muslera left for Uruguay last month. From City's perspective, Ederson's potential exit would open the door to a new chapter, with Diogo Costa continuing to emerge as the club's primary replacement. The 25-year-old Portugal international is admired for his own ball-playing ability and composure under pressure. City also retain Stefan Ortega, who has deputised effectively throughout his time at the club to date. However, the German himself has drawn interest from Bundesliga clubs and may not be content with a long-term backup role, should City pursue a marquee addition in goal. Ederson's exit would mark a shift in leadership dynamic of the dressing room. The Brazilian has been a quiet but consistent figure across multiple title-winning campaigns, forming a critical part of the defensive backbone alongside Ruben Dias, Kyle Walker, and John Stones. There is also the broader financial consideration; Ederson remains one of the club's highest earners, and should a sizeable fee be received from either Saudi Arabia or Turkey, City could look to reinvest in multiple squad areas. No decision has yet been made, and it remains unclear whether Manchester City would sanction a move without a clear replacement. But the scale of the offers involved, particularly from the Gulf region, suggest a genuine crossroads has been reached in Ederson's career.
Yahoo
17-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Portugal squad World Cup 2026: Which players will make it to the showpiece in USA, Mexico and Canada?
Portugal are going to be an interesting team to watch at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Cristiano Ronaldo-led side recently won their second Nations League title and are currently one of the strongest teams in Europe, despite having slightly less squad depth compared to other European powerhouses like England and France. They are yet to win the coveted World Cup title, and this might very well be the last chance for the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo to achieve that dream for his nation. Alongside the veteran forward, Portugal have a well-balanced squad with quality players across every department. Another emotional element tied to Portugal's World Cup campaign next year is the tragic passing of forward Diogo Jota. The news of Jota's death came as a shock to the footballing world. He was only 28 and had recently celebrated a Premier League title with Liverpool as well as a Nations League triumph with Portugal. It has been a difficult loss to accept for the entire football community, especially his teammates. His absence may serve as extra motivation for the Portuguese side, who will be determined to give their all and lift the trophy in his memory. Goalkeepers Portugal are well covered in the goalkeeping department, with Porto's Diogo Costa leading the charge as the front-runner to start at the showpiece event next year. Costa was integral to Portugal's 2025 success in the Nations League, making several crucial saves throughout the tournament. His composure, shot-stopping ability, and confidence with the ball at his feet make him a reliable presence between the posts. Meanwhile, Jose Sa remains an excellent backup option. The Wolves keeper has consistently performed at a high level in the Premier League and could prove valuable for Robert Martinez's side Player Club Diogo Costa Porto Jose Sa Wolves Rui Silva Sporting CP Rui Patricio Atalanta Defenders Defensively, Portugal have a sound and well-balanced setup. The center-back duo of Ruben Dias and Goncalo Inacio has performed consistently for Robert Martinez's side. In the wider areas, Portugal are blessed with one of the top talents in world football right now - Nuno Mendes. The young PSG star has been exceptional for both club and country, playing as a left-back. Mendes was a key figure in PSG's treble-winning campaign in the 2024-25 season and also for the Portuguese in the Nations League. On the right, both Diogo Dalot and Nelson Semedo are excellent choices and have been performing consistently for their respective clubs in the Premier League. Manchester City's Matheus Nunes is also an interesting choice to be played on the right. Although not a traditional right-back, Nunes has played solidly for the Premier League side. Antonio Silva and Tomas Araujo of Benfica are also valuable assets and could make the final cut. Player Club Nuno Mendes PSG Ruben Dias Manchester City Mathues Nunes Manchester City Diogo Dalot Manchester United Goncalo Inacio Sporting CP Nelson Semedo Wolves Joao Cancelo Al Hilal Nuno Tavares Lazio Renato Veiga Chelsea Tomas Araujo Benfica Francisco Moura Porto Toti Gomes Wolves Joao Mario Porto Antonio Silva Benfica Midfielders Similar to the backline, Portugal are well covered in the midfield region. Joao Neves and Vitinha have been at the top of their game playing for PSG in Ligue 1 and, similar to Nuno Mendes, played instrumental roles in PSG's treble-winning campaign. Meanwhile, Premier League stars Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes have been consistent performers for their respective Manchester sides. Bruno, especially, has been the only beacon of hope during the recent tough times at Old Trafford. Ruben Neves has also been key, playing for the Al Hilal superteam in the Saudi Pro League. PSG's Renato Sanches seems to have found his footing during his loan spell with Benfica and could play a part in Martinez's side. Back in 2016, Sanches played a big role in Portugal's Euros triumph; however, the youngster's career has been on a downward spiral since then. Player Club Joao Neves PSG Vitinha PSG Bernardo Silva Manchester City Joao Palhinha Bayern Munich Pedro Goncalves Sporting CP Bruno Fernandes Manchester United Ruben Neves Al Hilal Andre Gomes Lille Renato Sanches PSG Dario Essugo Chelsea Attackers In attack, Portugal will be highly motivated by the presence of Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese superstar will be 41 by the time the World Cup arrives. Although he is no longer in his prime, Ronaldo outscored everyone to finish as the top scorer of the Nations League, helping Portugal lift the title. Having already won the Euros in 2016, the World Cup remains the only major trophy that has eluded the iconic number 7, and he will not be alone in his quest to clinch the gold. Serie A forwards Rafael Leao and Francisco Conceicao have also been in great form and will carry huge responsibilities in the attacking third alongside Ronaldo. Francisco Trincao has been performing exceptionally for Sporting in the Primeira Liga and could be in Martinez's plans for the World Cup. The likes of Pedro Neto and Goncalo Ramos are also solid options for Martinez to consider. Player Club Cristiano Ronaldo Al Nassr Rafael Leao AC Milan Goncalo Ramos PSG Francisco Trincao Sporting CP Joao Felix Chelsea Goncalo Guedes Wolves Fabio Silva Wolves Fabio Carvalho Brentford Geovany Quenda Chelsea Pedro Neto Chelsea Francisco Conceicao Juventus Portugal's star players Portugal have a set of star players at their disposal for the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico next year. Cristiano Ronaldo will undoubtedly be their main man going into the tournament, carrying the weight of a nation on his shoulders. Meanwhile, AC Milan's Rafael Leao has been one of the top performers in Serie A and is a valuable asset for Roberto Martinez's Portuguese side. Francisco Conceicao has also been performing brilliantly during his loan spell at Juventus. The young winger recently scored a stunning equalizer against Germany in the semi-final of the Nations League for Portugal. In midfield, all attention will be on Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha, who will be key in dictating the tempo of the game and creating chances from the middle of the park. Moving on to the backline, Nuno Mendes will be a crucial figure for Portugal, both offensively and defensively. Mendes has been in the form of his life under Luis Enrique at PSG and will have a significant role to play at the World Cup next year. Predicted Portugal Starting XI for World Cup 2026 As mentioned previously, Diogo Costa is expected to be the first-choice keeper for Portugal at the World Cup. The Porto goalkeeper has been a regular in the starting XI and is likely to continue in that role at the showpiece event, with Jose Sa serving as his backup. In defense, the back four of Nuno Mendes, Ruben Dias, Goncalo Inacio, and Nelson Semedo offers a well-balanced setup. This combination provides Portugal with both defensive stability and attacking freedom from the wider areas. In the middle of the park, Vitinha is set to play a key role for the Portuguese alongside Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva. The young and talented Joao Neves could also be a potential threat coming off the bench. Up front, Portugal are expected to start the pacy Rafael Leao and Francisco Conceicao on the wings, with Cristiano Ronaldo leading the line as the primary threat in front of goal. Predicted Portugal starting XI (4-3-3): Costa; Mendes, Dias, Inacio, Semedo; Vitinha, Bruno, Bernardo; Leao, Ronaldo, Conceicao
Yahoo
09-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Portugal edge Spain on penalties, clinch second Nations League title 🏆🏆
The Nations League final was defined in a dramatic way this Sunday (8) at the Allianz Arena. In a duel decided on penalties, Portugal came out on top over Spain and won the trophy for the second time in history. Advertisement Goalkeeper Diogo Costa became a hero by defending the last penalty of the Spanish team, kicked by Álvaro Morata. After that, Rúben Neves scored the title shot, starting the Portuguese party in Germany. The game Spain opened the scoring at 20 minutes of play in the way they know best: with a beautiful collective play. After João Neves poorly cleared a ball inside the area, Martín Zubimendi appeared to finish it into the net. The advantage lasted only five minutes, until Nuno Mendes appeared inside the area and finished well to tie the game. Just before halftime, Spain took the lead again thanks to a goal from Mikel Oyarzabal. Advertisement The second half had fewer balls in the net, but it featured the brilliance of the great star on the field. Cristiano Ronaldo took advantage of a cross from Nuno Mendes that was deflected and pushed the ball into the goal, leaving the score at 2-2. The Portuguese legend fell to the ground in pain near the end of the final stage and had to be substituted. Lamine Yamal, the other great star on the field, left the field at the interval between the first and second half of extra time after a dull performance. In the penalties, all shots were converted until Álvaro Morata was stopped by Diogo Costa. Next, Rúben Neves converted his shot and gave Portugal its second Nations League title in history. Advertisement This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here. 📸 ALEXANDRA BEIER - AFP or licensors
Independent Singapore
09-07-2025
- Sport
- Independent Singapore
Lion City Sailors bolster squad with Safuwan loan deal, extends coach Rankovic's contract
SINGAPORE: Singapore Premier League champions Lion City Sailors have strengthened their squad ahead of the new season, signing national defender Safuwan Baharudin, and extending the contracts of head coach Aleksandar Rankovic and Portuguese left-back Diogo Costa. Head coach Rankovic was offered a two-year extension with the club, as the Sailors are looking to continue building on the strong foundation laid during a historic 2024-2025 season, including leading the club to the final of the inaugural Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two. The Sailors became the first Singaporean side to reach the final of a major Asian club competition. Although the team narrowly fell 2-1 to UAE's Sharjah FC, the campaign firmly cemented the Sailors' reputation on the continental stage. 'It's an honour to continue this journey with the Lion City Sailors. The trust from the management, the players, and the fans means a huge deal to me. What we've achieved last season was extraordinary and will be difficult to replicate, but we relish this challenge,' said 46-year-old Rankovic, who has a record of 50 wins and 12 draws in 79 matches in charge. Aleksandar Ranković signs a two-year extension with Lion City Sailors after historic treble-winning season. (Photo credit: Lion City Sailors) Since taking the reins in June 2023, the Serbian native has guided the Sailors to four trophies, including a domestic treble last season, winning the Singapore Premier League (SPL) title, Singapore Cup, and Community Shield. Rankovic also lifted the Singapore Cup in 2023, just six months into his tenure with the club. 'We're in the midst of assembling a strong squad for the season ahead, and we're determined to write new chapters in the club's history,' added Rankovic, who previously held coaching roles at Dutch Eredivisie sides Vitesse Arnhem, Sparta Rotterdam, ADO Den Haag, and FC Utrecht. The club will also welcome the return of Singapore national defender Safuwan to the Singapore league after he played nearly ten years abroad, including a stint with Australia's Melbourne City in 2015. Safuwan, who had been with Selangor since 2023, was reportedly not in their new head coach Katsuhito Kinoshi's plans for the upcoming Malaysia Super League campaign. With a year left on his contract, the lanky defender was allowed to leave the Malaysian club and join the Sailors on loan. 'I'm very excited to be part of a team that's doing everything it can to raise the bar for Singapore football,' said Safuwan in a media release by the Sailors. 'Safuwan is a proven top player in the region. His calming presence, winning mentality and versatility will add valuable strength and depth to our squad,' commented Sailors executive director Bruce Liang. There will be familiar faces when Safuwan joins his new team for the pre-season training, as he will be reunited with national teammates such as Hariss Harun, Hami Syahin, Lionel Tan, and Shawal Anuar. 'I followed the club's run in last season's ACL Two closely — it was something truly inspiring for the country. The club's lofty ambitions are very much aligned with my own goals, and I'm ready to help us reach even greater heights this season,' added the 33-year-old. Diogo Costa (left), and Rui Peres winning the 2025 Singapore Cup. (Photo credit: Lion City Sailors) The Sailors have also decided to convert Diogo Costa's loan spell into a permanent move after a successful season in which he played a key role in the club's historic treble-winning campaign. Blending European pedigree with a fearless style of play, Costa added steel to the Sailors' defence while posing a constant attacking threat with his overlapping runs and pinpoint deliveries. 'From the moment I arrived, I felt something special building here — from the players and fans to the club's ambition, I feel a deep connection and a strong desire to contribute to this project,' expressed Costa, who came through the youth ranks at Primeira Liga side FC Famalicão. 'It's an honour to be a Sailor for the next five years, and I'm committed to doing my part to help us realise our dream of becoming one of Asia's top football clubs.' The 21-year-old arrived in Singapore during the mid-season transfer window in January 2025 and wasted no time in making his mark as he quickly became a fan favourite, earning plaudits for his dynamism, grit, and relentless work rate down the left flank. Costa recorded 11 assists in 21 appearances across all competitions, including four in the Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two, where he played a pivotal role in the club's dream run to a first-ever continental final. The Sailors have begun their pre-season preparations as they have a massive campaign ahead, with the club not only aiming to defend their domestic titles, but also make further strides in both the ACL Two and the ASEAN Club Championship (ACC) Shopee Cup. In the regional ACC Shopee Cup, Sailors have been drawn in Group B alongside Johor Darul Ta'zim (Malaysia), Bangkok United (Thailand), Nam Dinh FC (Vietnam), and Svay Rieng (Cambodia). The competition will begin with qualifying play-off matches on Aug 8 and 15 involving clubs from Brunei, Laos, Myanmar, and the Philippines. The winners will advance and join 10 top ASEAN clubs in the group stage proper, which is scheduled to kick off on Aug 20.
