Manchester City and Spain sensation Rodri claimed the 2024 Ballon d'Or on Monday in one of the most controversial moments in the award's history. Almost all saw Real Madrid winger Vinicius as the clear frontrunner to win the award that goes to the best player in the world for any given season. Real Madrid, with […]

Manchester City and Spain sensation Rodri claimed the 2024 Ballon d’Or on Monday in one of the most controversial moments in the award’s history. Almost all saw Real Madrid winger Vinicius as the clear frontrunner to win the award that goes to the best player in the world for any given season. Real Madrid, with Vinicius leading the way, won the Champions League and LaLiga. He scored 24 goals and tacked on eleven assists in all competitions in the 2023/24 season. That included a brace against Bayern Munich in the semifinals of the Champions League. He also dethroned Rodri and Manchester City in the quarterfinals, providing a brace at the Etihad in a 3-3 draw.

Rodri’s claim to success was his performance at the European Championship with Spain. While Vinicius and Brazil floundered in the United States this summer, Spain was dominant. Rodri won the award for Player of the Tournament as Spain did not lose the entire tournament. Yet, that was one international tournament. Rodri was not the best player on his club team this past season, much less the best in the world. Vinicius, who won the award as the best player in the UEFA Champions League, is a far more deserving candidate.

This is not to discredit Rodri. He is assuredly one of the best players in the world currently. Had Vinicius not performed so well with Real Madrid in the 2023/24 season, few would argue against Rodri being a deserving recipient of the 2023/24 Ballon d’Or. Yet, the Ballon d’Or has lost credibility as a true representation of the best player in the world.

Instead, it goes to the best player in an international tournament. In 2024, the award goes to Euro 2024 champion Rodri. In 2023, Lionel Messi won the award because of his World Cup performance in Qatar, not necessarily what he did with PSG and especially Inter Miami. Before then, Karim Benzema won the award as something of an undisputed champion. Yet, even before that, Lionel Messi won again because of the Copa America.

Ballon d’Or for Rodri draws more controversy to once proud award

Benzema’s triumph in 2022 is a rare occurrence of a player winning the Ballon d’Or as the player with both the best statistics and trophies. That means we are now in the third straight year of the player having the best season not winning the Ballon d’Or. The verbiage in this case is also important. Lionel Messi may have been the best player in the world in 2021 or 2023. In 2021, Robert Lewandowski had more goal contributions, including scoring in all but four games that he played in for the Bundesliga. However, the Ballon d’Or voters were enamored with the Copa America win.

Before then, Luka Modric won the Ballon d’Or after guiding Croatia to the World Cup Final. That was a fantastic achievement. However, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi both had stronger cases for what they brought to their clubs and countries.

Over the years, the Ballon d’Or has become a popularity contest. It is refreshing in some regard to see Rodri win the award from his role as a defensive midfielder. Still, this is a product of his time with the Spanish national team. Had the award been given out at the immediate conclusion of the 2023/24 season, Vinicius would have won. It is hard to fathom that seven games at the Euros are enough to take that award away from him.

Inconsistency has become common for the Ballon d’Or, and it is leading to the overall distrust of the award as a true measure of greatness. The Real Madrid conglomerate of players and staff are not going to Paris because of their disappointment in Vinicius not receiving the Ballon d’Or. On one hand, it is disrespectful to Rodri and the other candidates. Yet, everyone thought Vinicius was the frontrunner. Broadcasters in El Clasico even said that Vinicius was going to win the award during the game against Barcelona. Now, though, the soccer world is left confused by the latest iteration of the popularity contest.

PHOTOS: IMAGO

Once again, the European Super League is rearing its head with a new launch date and revised aspirations. The original plan for the Super League was to create a new competition that would give the biggest teams and players more freedom. Not only would this give them more money, but it would help the fans. […]

Once again, the European Super League is rearing its head with a new launch date and revised aspirations. The original plan for the Super League was to create a new competition that would give the biggest teams and players more freedom. Not only would this give them more money, but it would help the fans. The contentious league met harsh criticism from fans and clubs alike. Now, though, the organizers of the league are working to get it going again.

Bernd Reichart, the CEO of Super League organizing group A22, now has a defined starting time for the competition. Speaking to German outlet Kicker, Reichart identified a time less than one year from now as the point he wants the league to start. That time is September 2025. There has not been significant discussion about teams that would be interested in joining the European Super League. Regardless, Reichart remains confident that the league fits the desires of fans and clubs alike.

For example, the original aim of the Super League was to create intriguing matches on a European scale. At one point, clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, Juventus, Liverpool, Manchester City and Inter Milan expressed an interest in the league. Any time those teams play, fans tune in.

Reichart pointed to the new-look Champions League that, in some ways, incorporates aspects of the European Super League. Bayern Munich defeated Dinamo Zagreb 9-2 before Borussia Dortmund blasted Celtic for a 7-1 win. In Reichart’s eyes, the European Super League will give fans more matchups like Manchester City against Inter Milan or Arsenal against PSG. The former of those fixtures happened in this season’s Champions League, but that was a drab and scoreless draw.

Reichart: Super League launch date will also be more affordable for fans

In addition to having highlight-level matches, Reichart went on to add that the European Super League will also be more cost-effective. Currently, one of the biggest complaints among soccer fans is how expensive it is to watch. For example, watching a top Premier League club involves three different providers to watch all the games. ESPN has the FA Cup, NBC holds the rights to the Premier League and CBS wraps up the European competitions and the EFL Cup.

“We are studying new technologies and the business model based on them because we believe that football fans deserve a better and more affordable experience on their screens,” Reichart said.

In fairness, he did not mention how he and A22 achieve a more affordable product. In the past, the organizers had mentioned free streaming of all games in the European Super League. It would make money based on advertisements. However, this cannot rival the money that partnerships with TV providers would bring in. Clubs would certainly need assurances that they will still be able to make money if they are to join this competition.

Regardless, the launch date that A22 wants for the Super League is less than a year away. By that measure, it must work quickly to round up enough clubs that would bring in considerable interest to drive the product’s viewership.

PHOTO: IMAGO

A dreary evening in the UEFA Champions League was made worse after an injury to Kevin De Bruyne in the first game of the competition. Manchester City hosted Inter Milan in a rematch of the 2023 UEFA Champions League Final. Unlike that game in Istanbul, Manchester City drew with the Italian champions in a scoreless […]

A dreary evening in the UEFA Champions League was made worse after an injury to Kevin De Bruyne in the first game of the competition. Manchester City hosted Inter Milan in a rematch of the 2023 UEFA Champions League Final. Unlike that game in Istanbul, Manchester City drew with the Italian champions in a scoreless affair. Kevin De Bruyne’s injury will be far more concerning than picking up one point instead of three on Wednesday night.

In the first half, star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne limped after a challenge late in the first half. In the 43rd minute, De Bruyne was stuffed as Inter Milan goalkeeper Yann Sommer denied the Belgian from close range. The interchange looked awkward for De Bruyne, who may have slightly rolled his ankle. Although he continued for the closing minutes of the first half, De Bruyne was unfit to continue.

Kevin De Bruyne’s injury critically affected Manchester City’s play. Having been instrumental in the side’s attack going forward, Manchester City looked devoid of creativity in the second half. Granted, much of that comes from Pep Guardiola’s style of play. City controlled the ball just outside the Inter Milan area. Yet, at no point did Manchester City look like a legitimate threat. Sommer made a handful of saves, but seldom were those legitimate tests on his goal.

As the injury is so fresh, there is minimal indication as to the severity of the knock. However, De Bruyne had played all but two minutes in the Premier League this season. He has been instrumental in the side picking up four wins from four games and racing out to a lead in the Premier League. The Belgian has previously been at the center of injury concerns, and that could be the problem once again for City.

Significant game at the weekend changes due to De Bruyne injury

Depending on how serious the injury is, De Bruyne could miss time. How much time is anyone’s guess. However, City has one of its most important games of the season on Sunday. Arsenal travels to the Etihad in a contest between the two teams most picked to finish first and second in the Premier League this season. Even if it is a slight knock for De Bruyne, Pep Guardiola would be cautious not to press De Bruyne. At the age of 33, De Bruyne would be more susceptible to injuries.

On the brighter side for City, this differs from the injuries that have kept him out for an extended period over recent seasons. For example, De Bruyne missed around 30 games last season because of a hamstring injury. That does not appear to be a considerable issue, and this current ankle injury does not seem to be a continuation of any previous injury that he has suffered.

In the Champions League, Manchester City returns to action in two weeks. City is taking on a Slovan Bratislava team that just lost 5-1 to Celtic. If De Bruyne misses the Arsenal game, it would not be surprising to see him out for several games to ensure he returns to full fitness.

PHOTOS: IMAGO

A League One clash between Wrexham AFC and Birmingham City FC was a who's who of stars in the crowd. On the pitch, league-leading Wrexham and Birmingham City played out a thrilling contest that finished 3-1 in favor of Birmingham City. However, cameras could not stay away from the crowd that featured movie stars, Premier […]

A League One clash between Wrexham AFC and Birmingham City FC was a who’s who of stars in the crowd. On the pitch, league-leading Wrexham and Birmingham City played out a thrilling contest that finished 3-1 in favor of Birmingham City. However, cameras could not stay away from the crowd that featured movie stars, Premier League winners and legends from other sports.

Some of these were based on ownership. Wrexham owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney are regulars at the Racecourse Ground to watch Wrexham play. On Monday evening, Rob McElhenney was at St. Andrew’s to watch his Red Dragons look to maintain their perfect start to life in League One. Birmingham City majority owner Tom Wagner was also in attendance to watch the game as Birmingham City was also unbeaten.

However, the more notable owner of Birmingham City to be in attendance was future NFL Hall of Fame inductee Tom Brady. The New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers icon is part of the ownership group of Birmingham City. He was alongside Wagner throughout the contest. Many of those cameos showed the American fully involved in the emotion of the game, too. He looked disappointed following Wrexham’s early opener. Yet, he was boisterous on his feet following Birmingham City’s goals. He also got to experience a proper heckling from Wrexham fans who berated Brady with jeers as he walked by the away section.

Alongside Brady were two icons of the Premier League. Fans in the stands may have more of a connection to these athletes. David Beckham and one of his sons were in the crowd next to Brady to watch the game on Monday night. Also, one of Beckham’s former teammates, Gary Neville, made his way to Birmingham to watch the game. Neville, who works as a pundit for Sky Sports, was in the same box as Brady and Beckham.

Birmingham City, Wrexham to draw more stars as season progresses

This game was significant not just for the people in the seats. Wrexham entered the game as the League One frontrunner. Thirteen points in the side’s opening five games was as strong a start as McElhenney could have hoped for. This loss against Birmingham City will sting. The Blues controlled the contest after Wrexham’s early goal. However, it will not be the end of the battle between two sides vying for promotion to the Championship. The Racecourse Ground will be an equally raucous atmosphere when Birmingham City comes to visit later in the season.

That game may feature both Reynolds and McElhenney, as the two have been spotted together many times cheering on the team they own. If that game has significance for the promotion race later in the season, it would not be surprising to see Tom Brady there, either.

That is all in the future, and Wrexham will return to the Racecourse Ground after suffering its first loss of the season. After Monday, Wrexham remains at the top of the table. However, Birmingham City is also on 13 points, and the Blues have a game in hand on the Red Dragons.

PHOTOS: IMAGO.

EFL League One holds clubs steeped in history. That includes teams who have recent stints in the Premier League. For instance, Reading, Birmingham City, Wigan Athletic, and Huddersfield Town have each played in the top flight since 2010. They may have fallen on harder times, but there is always the potential for promotion. After all, […]

EFL League One holds clubs steeped in history. That includes teams who have recent stints in the Premier League. For instance, Reading, Birmingham City, Wigan Athletic, and Huddersfield Town have each played in the top flight since 2010. They may have fallen on harder times, but there is always the potential for promotion. After all, many top clubs in the modern game have spent time in EFL League One throughout its history.

For reference, League One dates back to 1920 when it was created in the English pyramid as a professional division. The 1920/21 Football League Third Division, as it was known, included many teams that modern fans have no issue recognizing. Southampton, Brighton and Hove Albion, and Brentford, all current Premier League clubs, played in the third tier. Additionally, Crystal Palace won the first iteration of League One.

That is just the surface, though. Many of the top clubs in England have played at least one season in EFL League One. Some of those may be more recent than others, but they still stand as former League One sides. Ipswich Town may not have the history of some of these other clubs. However, it is the Premier League side to play in League One most recently. That was in the 2022/23 campaign. Back-to-back promotions have sent the Tractor Boys up to the Premier League.

Most famous League One clubs

Here are ten of the top clubs to have played in the third tier of English soccer in its over 100-year history. Note that some of these teams played in the division before it rebranded to League One ahead of the 2004/04 season.

Club	Last season played in League One
Manchester City	1998/99
Aston Villa	1971/72
Leeds United	2009/10
Leicester City	2008/09
Nottingham Forest	2007/08
Wolverhampton Wanderers	2013/14
Southampton	2010/11
Birmingham City	2024/25
Fulham	1998/99
Brighton and Hove Albion	2010/11

Going back into history, though, Manchester City stands out as the top side to have played in the league. City spent the 1998/99 season in the third tier of English soccer. At the time, it was known as the ‘Second Division,’ but it was two tiers under the Premier League. That was the only campaign City spent outside the top two divisions. In that season, City finished third, which was good enough for promotion to Division One via a win in the playoff final.

As seen, Birmingham City’s fall from grace is remarkable. Having played in the Premier League and producing top talents, Birmingham City has fallen into the third tier this season. Before then, the last time the Blues played in League One was back in the 1994/95 season.

League One records over the years

Many of those famous clubs spent just one season in the third tier. Yet, the side with the longest stay in the third division of English soccer belongs to Bournemouth. The Cherries spent a stunning 40 seasons in the third tier before eventually succumbing to relegation. That stint lasted from 1923 to 1970.

Over that time, Bournemouth watched the most successful team in League One history, Plymouth Argyle, win the division three times. In total, Plymouth has won League One on five occasions. The most recent of those was this past season in 2023/24. Plymouth Argyle earned promotion to the Championship for the 2024/25 season as a result of its success in the third tier.

PHOTO: IMAGO.

Beginning March 4, MLS 360, the whiparound show for Major League Soccer, is available at no extra cost for all Apple TV+ subscribers. Even if consumers do not subscribe to MLS Season Pass, they can watch the whiparound show that dips into each game during simultaneous kickoffs. Subscribers to MLS Season Pass continue to have […]

Beginning March 4, MLS 360, the whiparound show for Major League Soccer, is available at no extra cost for all Apple TV+ subscribers. Even if consumers do not subscribe to MLS Season Pass, they can watch the whiparound show that dips into each game during simultaneous kickoffs.

Subscribers to MLS Season Pass continue to have access to MLS 360. However, MLS games are not included with Apple TV+ (other than the whiparound show).

MLS 360 being added to Apple TV+ is great news for subscribers to the streaming service that also include Ted Lasso. The availability of MLS 360 on Apple TV+ was first reported by Jonathan Tannenwald from the Philadelphia Inquirer.

It is welcome news for casuals or fans not affiliated with a specific team. Or, the news caters to those looking to save some money or were hesitant on subscribing to MLS Season Pass. Now, there is a way to get a glimpse at the league with a cheaper subscription.

MLS 360 made its debut on the opening weekend of the 2023 MLS season. Among other first impressions on MLS Season Pass, MLS 360 showed that it can be the center of this endeavor from Apple. Granted, it needs some work, particularly with showing more of the games themselves instead of an over-talkative team of analysts. However, the potential is certainly there.

If MLS 360 can continue to grow and show the league’s true colors, the announcement on the spread of the show could be the bridge for fans wanting to watch Major League Soccer but do not need all the in-depth content MLS Season Pass provides.

MLS 360 available with Apple TV+

MLS 360, along with the rest of MLS Season Pass and that experience, was free for the opening weekend in Major League Soccer. However, MLS Season Pass is behind its paywall for the season. The base monthly fee is $14.99 per month, or $99 for the entire season.

Includes every MLS match, MLS Cup, Leagues Cup, select MLS NEXT Pro games + exclusive content

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However, Apple TV+ subscribers, paying $6.99 per month as it is, had the options of $12.99 per month or $79 for the season. If those prices were a little jarring for the more casual MLS fans, MLS 360 appearing in Apple TV+ can save serious money. Moreover, if users already subscribed to Apple TV+ to watch programs like Ted Lasso or War for Football, MLS 360 is just an added bonus.

Each of the FA Cup games on Wednesday had drama to round out the FA Cup fifth round. But the biggest stories were FA Cup giantkillers Grimsby and Sheffield Utd, who both advanced to reach the quarterfinal after knocking out Premier League clubs. First, starting at Old Trafford, West Ham got a second-half lead against […]

Each of the FA Cup games on Wednesday had drama to round out the FA Cup fifth round. But the biggest stories were FA Cup giantkillers Grimsby and Sheffield Utd, who both advanced to reach the quarterfinal after knocking out Premier League clubs.

First, starting at Old Trafford, West Ham got a second-half lead against Manchester United courtesy of a great finish from Saïd Benrahma. However, despite trailing with 12 minutes to go, Manchester United scored three times. An own goal leveled the game. Then, teenager Alejandro Garnacho had a gem of his own to give United the lead at the stroke of 90 minutes. Finally, Fred added the insurance goal with one of the last kicks of the game.

A night of FA Cup giant killing

Burnley, Sheffield and Grimsby Town all managed one-goal wins in their ties. The most dramatic, at least in terms of timing, was Burnley’s goal in the 90th minute to knock out 10-man Fleetwood Town. Still, the biggest upset in the cup in this round is Grimsby Town going to St. Mary’s Stadium to beat Southampton. A major achievement, even if Southampton is bottom of the top flight.

UNBELIEVABLE SCENES 🤯@officialgtfc have made the #EmiratesFACup final 8️⃣! pic.twitter.com/59lypODYfx

— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) March 1, 2023

Southampton was not the only top flight team to bow out. Sheffield United, who barely escaped Wrexham in the previous round, defeated Tottenham at Bramall Lane.

After the conclusion of the 5th Round on Wednesday night, the FA Cup quarterfinal draw immediately took place.

With Manchester United, Manchester City, Brighton and Fulham highlighting the top teams in the last eight, they are not the storyline.

In fact, those are the only four teams from the Premier League remaining in the tournament. Sheffield United, Burnley and Blackburn all hail from the Championship. Finally, League Two outfit Grimsby continues its magical run into the sixth round after defeating Premier League side Southampton on Wednesday.

The draw for the quarterfinals between those eight teams is as follows.

Manchester City vs. Burnley
Manchester United vs. Fulham
Brighton and Hove Albion vs. Grimsby Town
Sheffield United vs. Blackburn

Storylines for FA Cup quarterfinals

The City-Burnley contest has storylines of its own. Vincent Kompany returns to the Etihad for the first time as a manager. He takes Championship-leading Brighton to Manchester City to face his former boss, Pep Guardiola.

Manchester United is at home to a Premier League side in the FA Cup for the third time in this season’s FA Cup. In fact, United has not been on the road in this edition of the tournament.

The fact that there are two Premier League sides playing one another means there is a guaranteed team from outside the Premier League going to Wembley for the semifinals. Sheffield United and Blackburn are two teams towards the top of the Championship that look to take up that mantle.

Grimsby Town, the underdog story of the tournament so far, has a tall task at Brighton. However, Grimsby has been the visiting team before in the tournament, including when it defeated Southampton on Wednesday.

These games are set to take place March 18 and 19.

Photo: IMAGO / PA Images

Apple TV+ is preparing to introduce an ad-supported option for potential subscribers. This level of Apple TV+ will cost less than the current monthly subscription offer, which is $6.99 per month. However, that comes at the cost of having commercials run during shows and movies on the platform. According to media news website The Information, […]

Apple TV+ is preparing to introduce an ad-supported option for potential subscribers. This level of Apple TV+ will cost less than the current monthly subscription offer, which is $6.99 per month. However, that comes at the cost of having commercials run during shows and movies on the platform.

According to media news website The Information, Apple hired Lauren Fry. Fry is an executive with a background in digital video advertising. According to the report, Apple plans to use Fry’s expertise to introduce the ad-supported version of its paid-streaming service.

Reportedly, Apple has been seeking advertisers to run on this potential ad-supported version of Apple TV+. Commercials on sports programming are just the beginning for what Apple could do. In fact, it could rival Netflix Basic.

For those unaware, Netflix launched its ‘Basic’ version launched in early November for $6.99 per month. For reference, this is $3 cheaper than the standard, ad-free version of Netflix. Interestingly, it launched without the full complement of Netflix’s TV shows and movies due to licensing.

As the Apple TV+ ad-supported is still just a rumor, there is no indication of price or offering list.

Apple TV+ ad-supported option still has plenty

That being said, a version of Apple TV+ with ads could open some doors for those not willing to spend the full $6.99 per month. If it is, for example, $3 cheaper, the same difference between Netflix and Netflix Basic, audiences can watch shows like Ted Lasso or documentaries like War for Football at a discount.

Moreover, Apple recently announced plans for a Real Madrid documentary only on Apple TV+. That, along with MLS Season Pass debuting in February, shows Apple’s further commitment to bringing soccer content to audiences.

Includes every MLS match, MLS Cup, Leagues Cup, select MLS NEXT Pro games + exclusive content

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There is, however, no mention of whether or not this will affect MLS Season Pass pricing. Right now, Apple TV+ users get a discount on MLS Season Pass. Subscribers paying $6.99 per month on Apple TV+ can get MLS Season Pass for $12.99 per month ($79 per year).

Apple is releasing its latest documentary series, this time going into a historical season for Real Madrid. The three-part series, titled Real Madrid: Until the End, details the club's historic 2021/22 campaign. It gives fans an inside and behind the scenes look at a club that managed to win both LaLiga and the UEFA Champions […]

Apple is releasing its latest documentary series, this time going into a historical season for Real Madrid. The three-part series, titled Real Madrid: Until the End, details the club’s historic 2021/22 campaign. It gives fans an inside and behind the scenes look at a club that managed to win both LaLiga and the UEFA Champions League.

The documentary series is available March 10, 2023, exclusively on Apple TV+.

The series features deep dives into some incredible comebacks and late drama. Notably, in each of the three Champions League knockout rounds before the final, it had fireworks. A rapid comeback against PSG, avoiding a collapse against Chelsea and two stoppage time goals against Manchester City sent Los Blancos to the final.

In the end, Real Madrid won its record-14th Champions League crown. On the way, Karim Benzema won Ballon d’Or, the Santiago Bernabeu underwent construction and much more happened.

This new Apple documentary gives fans of the sport a look at one of the most historic clubs in soccer during one of its more memorable seasons. Viewers get exclusive interviews, kit room cameras and match highlights.

Real Madrid is latest topic for Apple documentary

Apple’s announcement of this Real Madrid docuseries is the latest for the media company’s endeavor into soccer. Ted Lasso got the ball rolling, before other docuseries such as Super League: War for Football. Of course, Apple TV has live streaming rights to Major League Soccer, which began at the end of February.

This style of documentary, though, is similar to those like F1’s Drive to Survive or Full Swing from the PGA Tour. Both of those are on Netflix and deliver a similar viewing experience to what Real Madrid: Until the End will do.

Tie-ins between Apple TV+ and MLS Season Pass

While the Real Madrid documentary isn’t included in MLS Season Pass, there is a way to watch Real Madrid: Until the End for free and save money with a MLS Season Pass subscription (which is normally $99 per year).

Take these steps:

1. Sign up for Apple TV+ through Best Buy. This deal is offering THREE MONTHS for FREE on Apple TV+. You will get an email confirmation after checking out.
2. Activate the offer from Best Buy at the Apple TV website.
3. Using the same Apple ID login information that you used when signing up for Apple TV+ for three months free, subscribe to the ANNUAL option for MLS Season Pass. It should say $79, the yearly cost for Apple TV+ subscribers.
4. After signing up, you have all the access to MLS Season Pass with major savings. Plus it’ll give you access to Apple TV+ so you can watch Ted Lasso and Real Madrid: Until the End.

The three-episode Real Madrid: Until the End series is available beginning Friday, March 10. Again, it is exclusive to Apple TV+.

After The Athletic released an interview with Inter Miami manager Phil Neville, the club banned the publication from its media day event. The interview with Neville included criticism of the lack of a finite playoff structure a week before the regular season started. However, the most interesting note was Neville's support of promotion and relegation […]

After The Athletic released an interview with Inter Miami manager Phil Neville, the club banned the publication from its media day event. The interview with Neville included criticism of the lack of a finite playoff structure a week before the regular season started. However, the most interesting note was Neville’s support of promotion and relegation in Major League Soccer.

Inter Miami banned Pablo Iglesias Maurer and Felipe Cardenas from the club’s media festivities. However, the two writers from The Athletic stood by their reporting and the story.

In fact, the original story included an editor’s note with a comment from Inter Miami. The club wanted to ensure that the sentiments of pro/rel and the criticism of a playoff structure was entirely Neville’s personal opinion, not that of the club.

Regardless, Maurer said on Twitter that the club was unhappy with the content and timing of the release of the interview with Phil Neville.

.@FelipeCar and I were informed today that Inter Miami banned The Athletic from its media day event because they disagreed with the timing and framing of our coverage over the weekend.

We're disappointed this is the action they've taken and we stand by our coverage.

— Pablo Iglesias Maurer (@MLSist) February 21, 2023

The MLS season starts on Feb. 25, and The Athletic published the interview with the Inter Miami manager on Feb. 19.

Inter Miami targets The Athletic before playoff format release

Since the story went live, MLS did finally come to a conclusion on a revised playoff structure. It differs heavily from the seven teams per conference from a season ago.

This season, there is a play-in game for the eight and nine seeds in each conference. Then, the opening round of the competition is a best-of-three series, which is seldom done in soccer. Those games cannot be settled by draws. Then, the conference semifinals, conference finals and MLS Cup are all single-elimination games.

In total, 18 of the league’s 29 teams in the 2023 season will make the playoffs, even if four of those teams are in a wildcard matchup in the first round of the playoffs.

Even then, this announcement comes just four days before the beginning of the season. Neville says that delay makes the league look unprofessional.

Disappointed but not surprised by Inter Miami's decision to ban these two journalists.

What Miami doesn't realize is that it reflects poorly on the club. It generates a culture of conformity and encourages other writers to toe the line in order to retain access. https://t.co/3xX0JRvrWF

— Christopher Harris (@thegaffer) February 21, 2023

Of course, Neville also hoped for promotion and relegation. That much seems unlikely given the risk on owners spending hundreds of millions on franchises.

Photo: IMAGO / ZUMA Wire

This weekend's slate of games just misses out on perhaps the most-anticipated match of the season, Arsenal hosting Manchester City. That is a midweek game on Wednesday, Feb. 15. Still, this weekend brings about some major clashes. Many of those come at the bottom of the table, as the relegation battle involves six teams, at […]

This weekend’s slate of games just misses out on perhaps the most-anticipated match of the season, Arsenal hosting Manchester City. That is a midweek game on Wednesday, Feb. 15. Still, this weekend brings about some major clashes. Many of those come at the bottom of the table, as the relegation battle involves six teams, at least.

Look no farther than Southampton hosting Wolverhampton Wanderers. Wolves has seven points in its last four games. Not a screaming record, but a strong one for a side that was 19th not long ago. Wolves now sits in 15th while the Saints of Southampton remain rooted at the bottom. Southampton is desperate for points, two behind Bournemouth and four from safety.

Another game to focus on is Leeds hosting Manchester United. The two played out a thrilling 2-2 draw, with the Whites getting a much needed point at Old Trafford. Having sacked Jesse Marsch, the club now hunts just its fifth win on the season against one of the more in form teams in the league.

Capping off the weekend’s action is the Merseyside Derby between Everton and Liverpool. While there is still 11 points of separation between the two, this is a pivotal game for both. Liverpool is massively behind the pace when it comes to looking for a Champions League spot. Everton, coming off a shock win over league leaders Arsenal, is still in the drop zone. A win on Monday would be massive for a number of reasons.

NBC coverage

Rebecca Lowe returns for her role behind the desk on Premier League Mornings, Premier League Live and Goal Zone on Saturday and Sunday. Joining her are Robbie Earle and new face Stephen Warnock. Warnock has previously been an analyst on games, but now makes his studio debut with NBC. Paul Burmeister then fills in on Monday for Lowe.

You can watch GOAL RUSH at 10 a.m. ET on Saturday on Peacock. during the five kickoffs in that window. The whiparound show focuses on one game, but brings in the highlights from the other games as they happen.

In terms of 4K Premier League games this weekend, those are West Ham against Chelsea, Leeds’s game against Manchester United and the Merseyside Derby.

EPL commentators on NBC: Matchday 23

Saturday, Feb. 11

7:30 a.m. — West Ham United vs. Chelsea. USA Network, Universo, fubo TV, Sling Blue, DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV. — IN 4K. —  Conor McNamara and Andy Townsend.

10 a.m. — Southampton vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers. USA Network, Universo, fubo TV, Sling Blue, DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV. — Paul Gilmour and Dave Edwards.

10 a.m. — Crystal Palace vs. Brighton and Hove Albion. Peacock Premium — Gary Taphouse and Efan Ekoku.

10 a.m. — Arsenal vs. Brentford. Peacock Premium — Tony Jones and Matt Upson.

10 a.m. — Fulham vs. Nottingham Forest. Peacock Premium — Pien Meulensteen and Tony Gale.

10 a.m. — Leicester City vs. Tottenham Hotspur. Peacock Premium — David Stowell and Paul Robinson.

12:30 p.m. — Bournemouth vs. Newcastle. NBC, Universo, Peacock Premium, fubo TV, Sling Blue, DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV. — Peter Drury and Graeme Le Saux.

Sunday, Feb. 12

9 a.m. — Leeds United vs. Manchester United. USA Network, Telemundo, fubo TV, Sling Blue, DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV. — IN 4K. —  Jim Proudfoot and Matt Holland.

11:30 a.m. — Manchester City vs. Aston Villa. USA Network, Telemundo, fubo TV, Sling Blue, DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV. — Joe Speight and Lee Dixon.

Monday, Feb. 13

3 p.m. — Liverpool vs. Everton. USA Network, Universo, fubo TV, Sling Blue, DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV. — IN 4K. —  Peter Drury and Lee Dixon.

Wednesday, Feb. 15

3 p.m. — Arsenal vs. Manchester City. Peacock Premium — Peter Drury, Lee Dixon and Graeme Le Saux.

The Premier League has charged Manchester City with breaking the financial rules set in place more than 100 times. The five-year investigation reviewed breaches that occurred over a time span from 2009/10 to 2017/18. According to the Premier League, Manchester City broke the rules in the sense that the club failed to provide the league […]

The Premier League has charged Manchester City with breaking the financial rules set in place more than 100 times. The five-year investigation reviewed breaches that occurred over a time span from 2009/10 to 2017/18.

According to the Premier League, Manchester City broke the rules in the sense that the club failed to provide the league an accurate account of its financial situation. Moreover, the club failed to disclose monetary contracts issued to players and coaches. Then, it did not assist the league upon investigation.

Manchester City did release a statement countering the charges. In it, the club said it worked with investigators, providing them with “extensive engagement and vast amount of detailed materials.”

The years for which the charges stem is of note. In the summer of 2008, Abu Dhabi United Group purchased City. Before the 2009/10 season, City started its trend of lavish spending. It spent over $125 million prior to the 2009/10 season. Since 2012, Manchester City spent more than almost any other club in the world. Only Chelsea has more total spending, buoyed by a busy revelation in spending under Todd Boehly.

According to The Guardian, some of City’s financial issues come from City’s Abu Dhabi ownership group disguised its own funding as independent sponsorships by the state’s commercial companies. It used the money on transfer fees, but then allegedly had a secret contract to increase the salary of manager Roberto Mancini. That information came about from information Football Leaks found in 2018.

Manchester City previously faced punishment for breaking financial rules in Europe. In February 2020, UEFA banned City from the Champions League for many of the same reasons the Premier League’s ruling against City. Financial irregularities and failure to work with investigators led to a ban. However, City appealed UEFA’s ban successfully, so there was minimal punishment.

Manchester City break financial rules, run risk of relegation

UEFA instituted a two-year ban for Manchester City. As stated, that never happened, as City appealed with the Court of Arbitration of Sport. The punishment for City based on the Premier League’s rule breaks is also stiff.

While proceedings and hearings are in private, the consequence for breaking financial rules includes a number of possibilities. For example, if found guilty, City could have a points reduction, fines or reprimands. In an extreme case, the Premier League can expel City.

Juventus suffered a 15-point deduction for financial irregularities. The Old Lady sank from third in Serie A to 10th, practically overnight.

However, according to Martyn Ziegler from The Times, Manchester City will not be able to appeal any final decision to the Court of Arbitration of Sport, as it did for the UEFA ban.

PHOTO: IMAGO / PA Images

Joao Cancelo, a standout defender over recent seasons with Manchester City, is on his way to Bayern Munich via loan. The surprising transfer only materialized the morning of Jan. 30, on the eve of the January transfer window. The loan move, first reported by David Ornstein of The Athletic, includes an option to buy for […]

Joao Cancelo, a standout defender over recent seasons with Manchester City, is on his way to Bayern Munich via loan. The surprising transfer only materialized the morning of Jan. 30, on the eve of the January transfer window.

The loan move, first reported by David Ornstein of The Athletic, includes an option to buy for Bayern Munich. That buy option after the half-season loan would be $76.3 million.

Recently, Cancelo fell out of favor at Manchester City. The emergence of Rico Lewis and strong performances from John Stones, Kyle Walker and Nathan Ake made the talented Portuguese excess to requirement. However, he is immensely talented.

📊 Joao Cancelo's playing record from before and after the World Cup 👇 pic.twitter.com/qLqz2DKe2k

— Football Daily (@footballdaily) January 30, 2023

Cancelo spent three and a half seasons at the Etihad, coming over from Juventus in the summer of 2019. His two most recent full seasons, 2020/21 and 2021/22, were huge successes. He secured a spot in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year at right back in both seasons. Along the way, Manchester City won both of the Premier League titles.

However, this season, Cancelo has not been his usual brilliant self. The downtick in form led to his spot on the bench at City. In the side’s last three games, Cancelo remained an unused substitute. This comes off the back of playing 36 out of 38 games in last season’s Premier League.

Bayern makes loan move for Joao Cancelo

That bench spot made him available to other teams. Bayern Munich came calling for Joao Cancelo with this loan move.

The club with 10-consecutive Bundesliga championships leads the league again. However, it has not been smooth sailing like previous years. Injuries and poor performances led to four clubs within three points of Bayern at the top of the table. That is largely due to three-straight 1-1 draws against RB Leipzig, Koln and Eintracht Frankfurt. The latter two were at home.

On the left side, Alphonso Davies is a lock. The Canadian is among the best fullbacks in the game. On the right side, however, there is some concern. Noussair Mazraoui is dealing with an injury, and Bayern does not want to jump straight in to playing him. Benjamin Pavard tends start on the right side, but even he found a bench spot in the most recent fixture. His replacement was Josip Stanišić, a 22-year-old academy product.

Therefore, Joao Cancelo has a natural spot to make Bayern’s defense one of the most threatening in Europe.

PHOTO: IMAGO / ZUMA Wire

Some of the clubs in Premier League have the longest stretches of remaining in the top flight. Their period atop English soccer stretches far beyond 1992, which was the inception of the Premier League. For instance, six of the 22 charter members of the Premier League have not exited the competition. Those are Arsenal, Manchester […]

Some of the clubs in Premier League have the longest stretches of remaining in the top flight. Their period atop English soccer stretches far beyond 1992, which was the inception of the Premier League.

For instance, six of the 22 charter members of the Premier League have not exited the competition. Those are Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Everton. Others are new to the Premier League in the modern season. Brighton, Brentford, Bournemouth, Nottingham Forest and Wolverhampton Wanderers are still in the single digits when it comes to seasons in the Premier League.

Still, English soccer dates well beyond 1992. In fact, some clubs cling to that history when trying to argue against the modern day giants. Aston Villa is sixth on the total top flight wins chart with seven triumphs. However, six of those seven league wins came before World War I.

However, in terms of actual tenures in the league, certain Premier League clubs may surprise you with their longest time in the top flight.

Longest tenures in the top flight for Premier League clubs

Perhaps surprisingly, at least based on current form, Everton holds the record for most seasons played in the top flight. The 2022/23 season is the 124th official season of league play in English soccer. Everton participated in 120 of those. The four seasons away from the top flight came in two spells. One was just a season away in 1930/31. Then, Everton missed out on three-successive seasons from 1951/52 through 1953/54.

Everton’s tenure in the top flight for the last 69 seasons is second-best to Arsenal, which is approaching 100 consecutive seasons of top flight soccer. Arsenal’s 97 seasons in the English first division and Premier League is a longstanding record that should continue to grow.

Club	Consecutive seasons in top flight	Total seasons in top flight	Last promotion
Arsenal	97	106	1919/20
Everton	69	120	1954/55
Liverpool	61	108	1962/63
Manchester United	48	98	1976/76
Tottenham Hotspur	45	88	1978/79
Chelsea	34	88	1988/89

However, it is Aston Villa that is second to Everton in terms of total seasons in the top flight. The seven-time winners have just one more seasons of top division play than Liverpool and three more than Arsenal. Villa put that standing to the test when it was relegated for three seasons in the late 2010s.

Manchester United rounds out the top five at 98 seasons, before Manchester City, Newcastle United, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur also feature on the list.

Concluding the top 10 is the only club on the list not in the Premier League, Sunderland. A former staple of the Premier League and top flight play, Sunderland’s fall from grace, now back in the Championship, sunk it down into League One just two years after competing in the top flight.

PHOTO: IMAGO / Action Plus

Chelsea is not done with its January shopping spree, and Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo are next on the wish list. The pair of midfielders play for Benfica and Brighton respectively. According to The Guardian, Todd Boehly and company want to shore up the midfield with what could be two expensive signings. Chelsea already submitted […]

Chelsea is not done with its January shopping spree, and Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo are next on the wish list.

The pair of midfielders play for Benfica and Brighton respectively. According to The Guardian, Todd Boehly and company want to shore up the midfield with what could be two expensive signings. Chelsea already submitted bids for both players. Benfica turned down an eye-watering $110 million from Chelsea for the World-Cup-winning Fernández, while Brighton denied an offer over $60 million.

🇦🇷🥇 A homenagem a @Enzo13Fernandez!#EuAmoOBenfica pic.twitter.com/G3ZjKxC9tw

— SL Benfica (@SLBenfica) January 15, 2023

Those are high fees for some clubs, but par for the course at Stamford Bridge. Just this winter, Chelsea spent individual sums of $100 million, $40 million, $35 million and $11 million just for the loan of Joao Felix.

However, these signings are all either defenders or forwards. Or, these signings are young. Chelsea did purchase Vasco da Gama midfielder Andrey Santos. It would be a tall task to have the 18-year-old midfielder step right into the Premier League.

Therefore, Chelsea wants Fernández and Caicedo. These are proven players in the midfield, an area of openness for Chelsea.

Fernández and Caicedo on list of heavy-spending Chelsea

Despite all the spending, Chelsea continues to seek its next transfer market gem. Chelsea’s spending this winter more than quadruples the team that spent the second most, Arsenal.

There is some debate over the purpose and tactics of this record spending. On one hand, some of these signings are for the future. Young players loaded with potential signed contracts reaching eight years, a major gamble for Chelsea. Or, these signings are purely desperate. Chelsea sit in 10th in the Premier League table. The Blues have two wins in the last 11 Premier League games played. On top of that, it is out of the FA Cup and Carabao Cup. Manchester City made sure of that.

Official. Moises Caicedo has picked Futbol Division as new agents — it’s now confirmed by agency statement 🚨🔵🇪🇨 #CFC

One to watch in the final days of Jan window — Brighton want to keep him but Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal are well informed on Moises situation ⤵️ https://t.co/7CmaFU3Y4Z

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 23, 2023

Not content with that performance, Boehly went on a splurge in the market, and Chelsea linked itself with any name near the rumor mill. In fact, UEFA is looking at modifying its Financial Fair Play rules to ensure no club can go as wild as Chelsea has, according to The Times. The long-term deals to step around FFP could be maximized at five years soon.

Regardless, Chelsea wants to capitalize on a major transfer window with Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo.

PHOTO: IMAGO / ZUMA Wire

Manchester City announced the beginning of feasibility studies for an expansion to Etihad Stadium. The City of Manchester Stadium, as it is known without sponsorships, is already one of the biggest in the country. It has a soccer capacity of just around 55,000. That, alone ranks it as the sixth biggest soccer stadium in England. […]

Manchester City announced the beginning of feasibility studies for an expansion to Etihad Stadium.

The City of Manchester Stadium, as it is known without sponsorships, is already one of the biggest in the country. It has a soccer capacity of just around 55,000. That, alone ranks it as the sixth biggest soccer stadium in England. Only Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham and Arsenal have grounds with higher capacities. Then, Wembley Stadium is the biggest in the country.

This announcement for a possible expansion of Etihad Stadium centers around the north stand of the stadium. The ground has complete rings of tiers on the first and second level. However, the third tier is only applicable to the sidelines and the south end. The south end is where visiting fans have designated sections.

Therefore, Manchester City wants to complete those rings. In doing so, it estimates the capacity of the stadium can reach over 60,000. Consequently, it could jump Arsenal, West Ham and Tottenham, all of which have stadiums with capacities just over 60,000. Manchester United’s Old Trafford will not be caught any time soon, with a capacity over 74,000.

Manchester City was able to add the two-level advertising sideboard effect around Etihad Stadium by removing the first few rows of seating this summer. pic.twitter.com/qBnzZmMpgu

— World Soccer Talk (@worldsoccertalk) August 28, 2021

Manchester City capacity at games

City often has criticism due to a lack of fans. For example, in the 2022/23 campaign, Manchester City averaged 96.8% capacity. A strong turnout, but still 13th in the Premier League in that statistic. Also, it is the worst of the traditional ‘big six’ clubs.

The argument is that more seats are harder to fill. Yet, this potential expansion to Etihad Stadium would certainly bring in more revenue over a campaign. Few teams play as many games as Manchester City in the world of club soccer.

Etihad Stadium expansion and more

Plans to add more seats is just the beginning of what City has in store for its expansion. The club also included a designated fan zone with shops just outside the stadium to add to the experience. Plus, it mentioned a museum and on-site hotel for fans and patrons.

The goal of the feasibility studies is to grow the fan experience, both on matchdays and off days. Manchester City also welcomes comments from fans to add their takes on what should be added to the experience in the area surrounding Etihad Stadium.

PHOTO: IMAGO / Revierfoto

Arsenal promoted Edu to the club's sporting director on Friday. Previously, the Brazilian held the position of technical director at Arsenal. The difference between sporting and technical director is what Edu oversees. In his prior role, Edu played a key role in transfers involving the men's and women's teams. Now, Edu adds the academy to […]

Arsenal promoted Edu to the club’s sporting director on Friday. Previously, the Brazilian held the position of technical director at Arsenal.

The difference between sporting and technical director is what Edu oversees. In his prior role, Edu played a key role in transfers involving the men’s and women’s teams. Now, Edu adds the academy to his collection of control at Arsenal.

Arsenal is surely pleased with the work Edu is doing with the first team. The squad’s bold transfers in the summer of 2021 seemed like a gamble. Last season, the additions of Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Aaron Ramsdale and Martin Ødegaard made Arsenal the youngest squad in the league. Not only did the squad pay heavily in terms of money, the team struggled early on.

However, Arsenal showed incredible promise in the latter stages of 2021/22. Despite a fifth-placed finish in the league, the groundwork existed.

That carried over into the present. Arsenal currently leads the Premier League table, including pivotal wins over Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham. After 14 league games, Arsenal has 12 wins and one draw. The lone loss in the campaign came at Manchester United.

Much of that stems from Arsenal’s key signings. Gabriel Jesus may have tempered off slightly, but he is still pivotal to the Gunners. Ukrainian Oleksandr Zinchenko has been a revelation at full back, a position Arsenal battles injuries with.

Edu: Sporting Director at Arsenal

We are delighted to announce that Edu Gaspar has been appointed as our first-ever Sporting Director.

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 18, 2022

Interestingly, Edu is the first ever sporting director at Arsenal. Of course, he retains his roles from his technical director position. He simply adds the academy in for more oversight.

According to Mail Sport, other clubs expressed interest in getting Edu on their staffs. It speaks as a testament to Edu’s achievements in returning Arsenal to glory.

Edu, as a player, was part of the Arsenal Invincibles of 2003/04. While the unbeaten season is not possible this campaign, Arsenal positioned itself to compete against Manchester City for a title.

PHOTO: IMAGO / PA Images

This is the final matchday before the entire league takes a monthlong hiatus for the World Cup. On one hand, clubs welcome this. Those that are not sending players to the World Cup have six weeks to get healthy and train. Also, it is a chance for clubs on poor runs of form to try […]

This is the final matchday before the entire league takes a monthlong hiatus for the World Cup. On one hand, clubs welcome this. Those that are not sending players to the World Cup have six weeks to get healthy and train. Also, it is a chance for clubs on poor runs of form to try and answer some questions over their struggles.

For other clubs, the World Cup poses challenges. There is the ever-present risk of injury. That risk seems more prevalent now more than ever with the load of games in the first half of this campaign. Also, just like some clubs get a break to recuperate, the World Cup cancels some clubs on a high. Brighton, Newcastle, Manchester City and Arsenal are all on stellar form over the last couple weeks. Now, there is a six-week break in between games.

Matchday 16 starts at 7:30 a.m. ET as Manchester City host Brentford. City sits in second behind Arsenal, but the Citizens’ three straight wins in league play are not necessarily comfortable. One-goal wins over both Fulham and Leicester set the stage for this clash with Brentford.

The highlight game of the week is the midpoint on Saturday. Newcastle, a club on blistering form, is unbeaten in its last nine games in league play. The Magpies’ lone loss this season was that stoppage time heartbreak at Anfield when Fábio Carvalho scored in the 98th minute. On the other hand, Chelsea is on the struggle bus right now. Winless in its last four Premier League fixtures and knocked out of the Carabao Cup, Graham Potter wants to send his club out to the World Cup on the right note. St. James Park presents a challenge for that hope.

NBC Coverage this weekend

Rebecca Lowe, Robbie Earle and Tim Howard are the names behind the desk for NBC’s studio coverage of the Premier League this weekend. The trio has Premier League Mornings starting at 7 a.m. on Saturday and 8 a.m. on Sunday. Premier League Live is between each game, while Goal Zone wraps up all the action.

GOAL RUSH is extra busy this weekend. The whip-around show covers all the notable moments during the 10 a.m. kickoffs on Saturday. During that time, there are five games. Consequently, there should be goals galore.

Also, be sure to check out the Premier League in 4K. This weekend, the pair of games in higher resolution are the aforementioned Newcastle-Chelsea contest. Then, on Sunday, the weekend finale of Manchester United’s trip to Fulham is also in 4K. Make sure you have the proper tools to watch the Premier League in 4K.

EPL Commentators on NBC: Nov. 12-13

Saturday, Nov. 12

7:30 a.m. — Manchester City vs. Brentford. USA Network, Universo, fubo TV, Sling Blue, DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV. — Jim Proudfoot and Jim Beglin.

10 a.m. — Liverpool vs. Southampton. USA Network, Universo, fubo TV, Sling Blue, DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV. — David Stowell and Michael Bridges.

10 a.m. — Bournemouth vs. Everton. Peacock Premium — Gary Taphouse and Glenn Murray.

10 a.m. — Tottenham vs. Leeds United. Peacock Premium — Pien Meulensteen and Efan Ekoku.

10 a.m. — West Ham vs. Leicester City. Peacock Premium — Tony Jones and Tony Gale.

10 a.m. — Nottingham Forest vs. Crystal Palace. Peacock Premium — Steve Banyard and Garry Birtles.

12:30 p.m. — Newcastle vs. Chelsea. NBC, Universo, Peacock Premium, fubo TV, Sling Blue, DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV. — IN 4K. — Peter Drury and Graeme Le Saux.

2:45 p.m. — Wolverhampton Wanderers vs. Arsenal. USA Network, Universo, fubo TV, Sling Blue, DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV. — Jon Champion and Andy Townsend.

Sunday, Nov. 13

9 a.m. — Brighton and Hove Albion vs. Aston Villa. USA Network, fubo TV, Sling Blue, DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV. — Joe Speight and Matt Holland.

11:30 a.m. — Fulham vs. Manchester United. USA Network, Universo, fubo TV, Sling Blue, DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV. — IN 4K. — Peter Drury and Lee Dixon.

Brazil, the odds-on favorites to win this year's tournament, announced its World Cup squad for Qatar 2022. Unsurprisingly, the contingent of 26 names features some of the world's best and most famous talents. In fact, there are many similarities to the side that reached the Copa America Final in 2021. Moreover, there are select players […]

Brazil, the odds-on favorites to win this year’s tournament, announced its World Cup squad for Qatar 2022.

Unsurprisingly, the contingent of 26 names features some of the world’s best and most famous talents. In fact, there are many similarities to the side that reached the Copa America Final in 2021. Moreover, there are select players still plying their trade in the Brazilian top flight. Yet, 23 out of the 26 names represent clubs outside Brazil. Also, there is one player who plays in Liga MX, a veteran for the national team.

So, here is how the roster shakes out for the Seleção.

GOALKEEPERS

Ederson (Manchester City), Alisson (Liverpool), Weverton (Palmeiras).

DEFENDERS

Danilo (Juventus), Dani Alves (Pumas UNAM), Alex Sandro (Juventus), Alex Telles (Sevilla), Thiago Silva (Chelsea), Marquinhos (PSG), Eder Militão (Real Madrid), Bremer (Juventus).

MIDFIELDERS

Casemiro (Manchester United), Fabinho (Liverpool), Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle United), Fred (Manchester United), Lucas Paquetá (West Ham United), Everton Ribeiro (Flamengo).

FORWARDS

Neymar (PSG), Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid), Gabriel Jesus (Arsenal), Antony (Manchester United), Raphinha (Barcelona), Richarlison (Tottenham Hotspur), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Rodrygo (Real Madrid), Pedro (Flamengo).

Brazil World Cup squad

Brazil's squad for the World Cup 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/en8JnQha8D

— B/R Football (@brfootball) November 7, 2022

Breaking it down from the back to the front, the Brazil World Cup squad is perhaps deeper than any other side. Goalkeepers Alisson and Ederson from Liverpool and Manchester City, respectively, are two of the elites of world soccer. Also, Weverton was in goal when Brazil won its Olympic gold medal via penalty shootout.

Dani Alves and Thiago Silva bring the experience, while a player like Bremer brings the youth to Brazil’s back line. This is a decent mix of the two. However, with three Juventus players featured, form could be something of a concern at the World Cup.

Brazil’s midfield is dominated by the Premier League. Casemiro and Fabinho are two elites at their position, while Fred and Bruno Guimarães bring something different to the fold. Also, Everton Ribeiro is a familiar name to those that follow the Copa Libertadores. The midfielder for Brazil was names to the Team of the Tournament in the 2022 campaign, only as a defender.

Pedro, another Flamengo player in Brazil’s squad, was on the Copa Libertadores Team of the Tournament as the competition’s top scorer with 12 goals. However, he faces a tough challenge of featuring with Richarlison regaining fitness before the tournament. Other players, namely Vinicius and Neymar, are sure to be higher on the pecking order for Tite.

Brazil kicks off its World Cup on Thursday, Nov. 24, against Serbia.

PHOTO: IMAGO / nogueirafoto