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SPORTS

Latest bits in football news and highlights

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By Timothy Akintola

Stories on Cristiano Ronaldo, Lookman, Mário Rui, Carvajal and De Jong.

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Cristiano Ronaldo reaffirms that the Saudi League is better than Ligue 1.

Al Nassr star, Cristiano Ronaldo has reignited debate over football league quality, claiming the Saudi Pro League (SPL) surpasses France’s Ligue 1. Speaking at the 2024 Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, the Al-Nassr star dismissed critics, stating, “The Saudi Pro League is better than Ligue 1. I’m not saying this because I play here, but players should come and see for themselves. In France, only PSG competes; everyone else is finished.” Ronaldo emphasised the SPL’s intensity, highlighting its challenging conditions and growing competition compared to Ligue 1. This isn’t Ronaldo’s first critique of the French league; in January, he praised the SPL for its parity, contrasting it with Ligue 1’s dominance by PSG. Ronaldo also made headlines at the event by addressing topics like the Ballon d’Or and Manchester United if Ruben Amorim is given time.

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Ademola Lookman’s late assist secures a point for Atalanta against Lazio.

Atalanta secured a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Lazio, extending their unbeaten run in Serie A to six games and keeping their title hopes alive. The match featured a face-off between Nigerian stars Ademola Lookman and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, both pivotal in their teams’ performances. Lazio dominated early and broke the deadlock in the 27th minute. Dele-Bashiru latched onto a precise pass from Nicolò Rovella, unleashing a stunning volley to give the hosts the lead. Atalanta, however, refused to back down and pressed for an equalizer late in the game. In the 88th minute, Lookman delivered a perfectly placed cross, allowing Marco Brescianini to head the ball into an open net, salvaging a crucial point for the visitors. Atalanta’s resilience keeps them firmly in the Serie A title race, while Lazio will rue their missed opportunity to seal the win.

Napoli close to terminating Mário Rui’s contract after six years at the club.

According to sources, Napoli is reportedly close to terminating the contract of long-serving defender Mário Rui. The two parties are said to be finalising the agreement, with only minor details left to resolve. Rui joined Napoli in July 2017, initially on Loan from Roma before completing a permanent move for €5.75 million. Over the years, he became a key figure in the team, contributing significantly to their defensive setup. In the summer of 2024, the Portuguese full-back rejected several offers from clubs such as Nice, Lille, Istanbul, São Paulo, Aris, Beşiktaş, and Valladolid. Despite these opportunities, Rui’s future now appears to be away from Napoli, as the club prepares to part ways with the player after more than six years of service.

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Dani Carvajal opens up on potentially moving to Qatar if he leaves Real Madrid.

Real Madrid full-back, Dani Carvajal has expressed his unwavering loyalty to Real Madrid, vowing never to compete against the club in Europe or Spain if he were to leave. Speaking to *Esquire*, the veteran right-back emphasised his deep connection to the club that has been his home for many years. “If I ever leave Real Madrid, I will not play in Europe,” Carvajal said. “I will not compete against Real Madrid in the Champions League or in Spain.” His statement underscores the respect and bond he shares with the club and its fans. Carvajal also shared a lighthearted moment involving teammate Joselu, who often encourages him to explore opportunities abroad. “Joselu tells me, ‘I’m saving the RB spot for you,’” Carvajal revealed, hinting at a potential move outside Europe. For now, Carvajal remains dedicated to Real Madrid, prioritising loyalty and respect above all.

Frenkie de Jong’s agent dispels rumours of his potential exit from Barcelona.

Speculation over Frenkie de Jong’s future at Barcelona has intensified recently, with reports suggesting the midfielder could be sold amid his refusal to extend his contract, which expires in the summer of 2026. De Jong has reportedly fallen down the midfield pecking order under new manager Hansi Flick, prompting Barcelona to explore potential suitors. One rumor linked the Dutchman with a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League. However, De Jong’s agent, Ali Dursun, has firmly denied these claims. Speaking to De Telegraaf, as cited by Fabrizio Romano, Dursun stated: “The reports about a move to Saudi are nonsense. It distracts Frenkie from what he really wants: shining at Barça, the club that he loves the most.” Dursun also hinted at the possibility of a long-term future in Catalonia, adding, “Who knows, maybe Barça and Frenkie stay together for a longer time.”

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