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Latest bits in football transfers and news

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By Timothy Akintola

Read stories on Pochettino, Nathan Aké, James Rodríguez, Fofana and Elliot.

Team USA officially unveils Mauricio Pochettino as their new head coach.

Mauricio Pochettino has been officially named the head coach of the United States men’s national team, signing a deal to guide them through the 2026 World Cup, which the U.S. will co-host with Mexico and Canada. The former manager of Tottenham, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain said the decision to join US Soccer was about more than just football; it was about embracing the journey and passion of the team and country. Pochettino, 52, expressed his excitement about leading a talented group of players and building something special for the nation. He left Chelsea last summer after one season and previously took Spurs to the 2019 Champions League final and won Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France with PSG. Now, Pochettino aims to lead the U.S. team to success in the upcoming World Cup.

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Nathan Aké suffers a hamstring injury in Netherland’s 2-2 draw against Germany.

Manchester City suffered a major setback as defender Nathan Aké was stretchered off during the Netherlands’ 2-2 draw with Germany in the Nations League on Tuesday. Aké appeared to suffer a hamstring injury and was in visible pain when he pulled up, prompting immediate medical attention. The Manchester City player was clearly emotional as he was taken off the field, raising concerns about the extent of his injury. He is set to undergo tests to determine its severity, and City will be anxiously awaiting the results. The Premier League champions are heading into a busy period following the international break, with crucial matches against Brentford, Inter, Arsenal, Watford, and Newcastle all scheduled before the end of the month. Aké’s potential absence could be a significant blow to City’s defensive options.


James Rodríguez and Colombia hold Argentina to a 2-1 victory.

On Tuesday, Colombia defeated Argentina 2-1 in a South American qualifier for the 2026 World Cup, avenging their loss in the Copa America final. The match, held in Barranquilla, saw Yerson Mosquera give Colombia an early lead with a header in the 25th minute. Argentina equalized in the 48th minute through Nico González. However, Colombia’s captain, James Rodríguez, proved to be the difference-maker with an assist and a winning goal from the penalty spot. Argentina struggled without Lionel Messi, and Colombia took advantage to secure a crucial victory. Reflecting on his decisive penalty, Rodríguez remarked, “I don’t think I’ve ever scored against them; there’s a first time for everything. Today was just another game, but against a team that has won everything, this victory tastes even better.”

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David Datro Fofana makes a season-long loan move to AEK Athens.

Chelsea striker, David Datro Fofana is poised to join AEK Athens on a season-long Loan with an option to buy for around £20 million. The 21-year-old’s transfer is still pending final paperwork and a medical clearance, with the Greek transfer window closing on Wednesday night. Talks between the clubs, which began shortly after August 30, have seen multiple delays, but a breakthrough has now been reached, placing AEK Athens in a strong position since transfer windows in Europe’s top five leagues have closed. For Chelsea, this loan serves to put Fofana in the “shop window” and move him closer to a potential sale, as the club views him as surplus to requirements. Fofana originally joined Chelsea from Molde in January 2023 for £8.4 million.


Harvey Elliot sustains a foot fracture, to be out until late October.

Liverpool midfielder, Harvey Elliott is set to be sidelined for several weeks after suffering a foot fracture. The 21-year-old has had limited involvement under Arne Slot in the 2024-25 season, making just one brief appearance as a substitute in Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Brentford in gameweek two. Elliott did not feature in victories over Ipswich Town or Manchester United and was called up to the England Under-21 squad for the September international break. However, he withdrew from the squad and returned to Liverpool for “further medical assessment.” According to The Times, Elliott experienced discomfort during training, which led to the diagnosis of a foot fracture. The injury is expected to keep him out of action for at least six weeks, sidelining him until late October.

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