Pep Guardiola reveals Kyle Walker has asked to leave Manchester City.
Manchester City and England right-back Kyle Walker is considering a move abroad to explore new challenges, revealed Pep Guardiola following City’s 8-0 FA Cup win over Salford. Walker, 34, was absent from the squad on Saturday and has not started a match since City’s 2-1 Manchester derby loss. The defender, a key figure in City’s historic successes since joining in 2017, has seen his form dip this season amid the team’s struggles late in 2024. Guardiola shared that Walker expressed interest in an overseas move two years ago, with Bayern Munich showing interest, though the deal fell through. “Kyle has been crucial to our success, but his mind and heart are now set on exploring options abroad,” said Guardiola. Walker has reportedly drawn interest from the Saudi Pro League but remains uncertain about his future. He has made 18 appearances for City this season.
🚨 BREAKING: Kyle Walker has asked to leave Manchester City.
“Two days ago, Kyle asked to explore the options to play abroad and end his career”, says Pep Guardiola. pic.twitter.com/ZOZsDhBQBG
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 11, 2025
Barcelona beat Real Madrid 5-2 to clinch the Spanish Super Cup.
Hansi Flick’s men triumphed over Real Madrid with a resounding 5-2 victory in a thrilling El Clasico to claim their 15th Spanish Super Cup title in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Kylian Mbappé gave Madrid an early lead, but Barcelona responded emphatically, showcasing their dominance. Lamine Yamal equalized before Robert Lewandowski’s penalty put the Catalans ahead. Raphinha’s brilliant brace and Alejandro Balde’s goal extended the lead, leaving Madrid reeling. Rodrygo Goes managed to pull one back with a stunning free-kick, but the European champions failed to capitalize on their numerical advantage after Barcelona’s goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny was sent off in the second half. Madrid, eager to avenge their 4-0 La Liga loss to Barcelona in October, were left humiliated as their rivals delivered a commanding performance to seal the trophy in style.
FT: Real Madrid 2-5 Barcelona.
BARCELONA HAVE DESTROYED THEIR BIGGEST RIVALS AND ARE THE SPANISH SUPERCUP CHAMPIONS! 🏆✨🏆✨🏆✨ pic.twitter.com/Ck4vLVHkaV
— TheEuropeanLad (@TheEuropeanLad) January 12, 2025
Manuel Neuer confirms he will extend his contract with Bayern Munich.
Bayern Munich goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer has confirmed he will extend his contract with the club until 2026, marking a significant chapter in his illustrious career. The deal reportedly reduces his fixed salary but adds performance-based bonuses, potentially maintaining his annual earnings near €20 million if he remains a regular starter. At 38, Neuer, nicknamed the “German Wall,” continues to impress, recording seven clean sheets and conceding just eight goals in 12 Bundesliga appearances this season. However, Bayern plans to gradually share game time with their second-choice goalkeeper, preparing for a long-term succession plan. While not explicitly stated in the contract, this rotational strategy reflects Bayern’s future ambitions. Trusted by coach Vincent Kompany, Neuer remains pivotal with his shot-stopping brilliance and leadership. The extension highlights both continuity and a transitional phase as the club balances experience with future readiness.
🚨🔐 Manuel Neuer confirms: “It’s true, I will sign new deal at FC Bayern soon”, told Sport1.
It will be valid until June 2026, one more season for the German legend. pic.twitter.com/ZsVDpVD8m1
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 12, 2025
Altay Bayindir the hero as Man United knocks Arsenal out of the FA Cup.
Manchester United edged past Arsenal in a thrilling FA Cup third-round clash at the Emirates, winning a dramatic shootout despite playing nearly an hour with ten men. Bruno Fernandes opened the scoring early in the second half with a stunning first-time strike. However, Diogo Dalot’s second yellow card for a rash challenge on Mikel Merino shifted momentum. From the resulting free kick, Gabriel’s deflected volley off Matthijs de Ligt brought Arsenal level. The Gunners pressed hard and were awarded a contentious penalty after Harry Maguire was judged to have fouled Kai Havertz. Chaos followed as Maguire, Havertz, and Gabriel were all booked. Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard stepped up, but United’s stand-in goalkeeper, Altay Bayindir, made a brilliant save to deny him. Despite Arsenal’s dominance, United held firm, showcasing remarkable resilience to progress to the next round.
🚨 Manchester United knock Arsenal out of the FA Cup! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/eI7M4E9diL
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 12, 2025
Niclas Füllkrug set to be out for months after sustaining a hamstring injury.
West Ham United have been dealt a major setback as striker Niclas Füllkrug faces several weeks on the sidelines with a hamstring injury. The 31-year-old pulled up during Friday’s 2-1 loss to Aston Villa, Graham Potter’s first match as manager, and had to be helped off the pitch. The club confirmed he will be out for “a number of weeks,” though reports suggest he could miss up to three months. Füllkrug, signed from Borussia Dortmund for £27 million, has struggled with injuries since his arrival, previously missing three months with an Achilles issue. His absence leaves West Ham’s attack further depleted, adding to Potter’s challenges as he seeks to stabilize the team’s season. The manager acknowledged the blow, saying, “It doesn’t look good.” Finding a reliable replacement will now be crucial for the Hammers.
🚨 West Ham confirm Niclas Füllkrug sustained a hamstring injury and will be sidelined for a number of weeks.
Hammers, set to bring in new striker in the next days/weeks. pic.twitter.com/UYyslayEbW
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 12, 2025