Vinicius Jr. reportedly rejects Real Madrid’s first contract renewal offer.
Amid growing interest for Vinicius Jr. from Saudi Arabia in recent weeks, Real Madrid have moved to extend his contract beyond 2027. The 24-year-old winger recently held renewal talks with the club, but their initial offer was rejected, as per Relevo and The Athletic. Saudi officials have reportedly tabled a staggering €1 billion proposal, while Real Madrid’s improved salary offer fell short of expectations. Vinicius, who signed his last contract in 2022 with a €1 billion release clause, currently earns €15 million net annually. A January meeting with his representatives and a family member ended without an agreement, but discussions will continue. Despite this, the Brazilian remains committed to the club, expressing his desire to “make history” at Madrid. Having scored 101 goals and provided 83 assists in 293 appearances since 2018, Los Blancos remain confident of securing their star’s future despite the looming Saudi interest.
🚨 BREAKING: Vini Jr & his camp have REJECTED Real Madrid’s first offer for renewal. @MarioCortegana pic.twitter.com/yM8j5ObBpr
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) February 7, 2025
Maguire’s last-minute goal helps Manchester United edge Leicester in the FA Cup.
Manchester United staged a late comeback to defeat Leicester City 2-1 in the FA Cup fourth round at Old Trafford. Harry Maguire’s controversial 93rd-minute header from Bruno Fernandes’ free kick sealed the victory, denying Leicester a chance at extra time. The Red Devils once again fell behind after defensive lapses allowed Bobby De Cordova-Reid to score just before halftime. Returning Leicester boss Ruud van Nistelrooy seemed on course to match Ruben Amorim’s Old Trafford win tally this season. However, Erik ten Hag responded decisively, introducing Alejandro Garnacho at halftime. The Argentine energized United, hitting the crossbar before setting up Joshua Zirkzee’s equalizer. United dominated the closing stages, and Maguire’s winner sparked controversy, with Van Nistelrooy criticizing the decision to let it stand. The victory marked only United’s third win in eight home games but provided a much-needed lift after halftime boos from frustrated fans.
FT: Manchester United 2-1 Leicester City.
MANCHESTER UNITED ARE THROUGH IN THE FA CUP TOURNAMENT! pic.twitter.com/cWfZdfAFsR
— TheEuropeanLad (@TheEuropeanLad) February 7, 2025
Ugochukwu and Chukwuemeka Reportedly set to switch nationality to Nigeria.
Reports from OwnGoalNigeria.com suggest that Chelsea stars Lesley Ugochukwu and Carney Chukwuemeka are applying to switch nationality to Nigeria and have been named in Nigeria’s squad for March fixtures against Zimbabwe and Rwanda, though official confirmation from the Nigeria Football Federation is still pending. New Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has included both midfielders, who previously represented France and England at youth level. Ugochukwu, on Loan at Southampton, has already submitted his nationality switch papers, while Chukwuemeka, currently at Borussia Dortmund, has also applied. However, there are concerns over whether their paperwork will be completed in time, with Chukwuemeka’s process requiring approval from all UK football associations. Struggling for game time this season, both players could benefit from international appearances to regain form and boost their profiles. While Chelsea seems unlikely to include them in long-term plans, their potential addition to Nigeria’s squad could strengthen the team in future AFCON and World Cup campaigns.
Chelsea's Carney Chukwuemeka and Lesley Ugochukwu have applied to switch nationality to Nigeria
They're in the 31-man provisional squad for World Cup qualifiers pic.twitter.com/vUFZXSnLJA
— Naija (@Naija_PR) February 7, 2025
Bournemouth claims three Premier League Awards for the month of January.
Coming off an outstanding month, Bournemouth swept the Premier League’s January awards. Justin Kluivert was named Player of the Month, Andoni Iraola won Manager of the Month, and David Brooks claimed Goal of the Month. Kluivert played a pivotal role in Bournemouth’s success, scoring five goals and providing two assists in four league matches. He netted in the 2-2 draw against Chelsea, scored a hat-trick and assisted in the 4-1 win over Newcastle, and added a goal and assist in the 5-0 victory over Nottingham Forest. He became the first Dutch winner since Virgil van Dijk in 2018, beating competition from Phil Foden, Cody Gakpo, and others. Iraola secured his second Manager of the Month award after guiding Bournemouth to three wins and a draw, surpassing Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta. Brooks completed the club’s dominance by winning Goal of the Month for his stunning volley against Everton, capping a remarkable run for the Cherries.
Just the THREE Premier League awards for @afcbournemouth in January 🏆🏆🏆 pic.twitter.com/WoqcaNsIlh
— Premier League (@premierleague) February 7, 2025
Rodri named in Man City’s Champions League quad despite injury.
Manchester City have included Rodri in their UEFA Champions League squad for the knockout phase, despite the midfielder recovering from an ACL injury suffered in September. Initially ruled out for the season, Pep Guardiola had stated, “Next season he will be here, this season is over.” However, there is now cautious optimism that the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner could return before the campaign ends. Rodri has been actively involved with the team, traveling for the Champions League clash against PSG and attending domestic matches. While Guardiola remains uncertain about his recovery timeline, his inclusion is a significant boost for City as they prepare to face Real Madrid in the knockout play-offs on February 11 and 19. Meanwhile, January signings Omar Marmoush, Nico González, and Abdukodir Khusanov have also been added to the squad, while Vitor Reis misses out. Rodri’s potential return could be crucial for City’s European ambitions.
🚨🔵 Rodri has been included into Man City squad for Champions League knockout stages.
Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, and Nico Gonzalez also included. ✅
Vitor Reis, out of the list. 🚫 pic.twitter.com/6Om6mJTb1w
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 7, 2025