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Updates across sport new and injury reports

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By Timothy Akintola

Latest on Toni Kroos, Gravenberch, Lautaro Martínez, Raúl Asencio and Morata.

Toni Kroos joins sport agency, Sports 360 as a shareholder and mentor.

Former Real Madrid and Germany midfielder, Toni Kroos has become the latest shareholder in Sports 360, the agency that represented him during his playing career. Retiring in 2024 after winning La Liga and the Champions League in his final season, Kroos is now shifting his focus to guiding young talents. Expressing his enthusiasm, Kroos said, “I’m excited to offer advice to players on their sporting journeys and share my experiences.” His involvement strengthens Sports 360’s ties with its athletes, reinforcing its reputation for representing elite footballers. Known for his intelligence both on and off the pitch, Kroos will now serve as a mentor, helping players navigate career choices, professional growth, and the demands of top-level football. His transition into this advisory role marks a new chapter, and fans will keenly watch how his expertise shapes future stars, just as he dominated the midfield for over a decade.

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Ryan Gravenberch Withdraws from Netherlands Squad Due to Injury.

Liverpool midfielder, Ryan Gravenberch has withdrawn from the Netherlands squad ahead of their UEFA Nations League quarterfinal against Spain. The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) confirmed the news on Wednesday, citing an injury he sustained during Liverpool’s Carabao Cup final defeat to Newcastle United at Wembley on Sunday. “Ryan Gravenberch left the Oranje training camp this evening. The midfielder is still suffering from an injury sustained over the weekend which will prevent him from playing against Spain,” the KNVB stated. Dutch coach Ronald Koeman has chosen not to call up a replacement for the two-legged tie, with the first match in Rotterdam on Thursday and the return leg in Valencia on Sunday. Gravenberch, who has started every league match this season for title-chasing Liverpool, will now focus on recovery ahead of his club’s crucial Premier League fixture against Everton on April 2.


Lautaro Martínez ruled out of Argentina’s World Cup Qualifiers due to injury.

Argentina striker Lautaro Martínez will miss the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil due to a hamstring injury. The Inter Milan forward has withdrawn from the national team after scans confirmed an issue in his left leg, the Argentine Football Association announced. Argentina, leading the qualifiers with 25 points, will face Uruguay in Montevideo on March 22 before hosting Brazil in Buenos Aires on March 26. Martínez’s absence is a major setback for the Albiceleste as they seek to maintain their top spot. Initially, fatigue from a recent match against Atalanta raised concerns, but further tests revealed a more serious injury. Inter Milan will also feel the impact, with Martínez potentially sidelined for their Serie A clash against Udinese on March 30 and the Coppa Italia semi-final against AC Milan on April 2. Having scored 11 goals in 17 matches this season, his absence will be felt as both club and country navigate crucial fixtures.

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Raúl Asencio set for new long-term contract with Real Madrid.

Real Madrid defender, Raúl Asencio has been one of Real Madrid’s standout performers this season, seizing his opportunities to become a first-team regular under Carlo Ancelotti. The 22-year-old centre-back has capitalized on defensive injuries, cementing his place in the squad with consistently strong displays. His impressive performances have now earned him his first call-up to the Spanish national team. In recognition of his rapid rise, Real Madrid have been working on a contract renewal to reward Asencio with improved terms. According to Fabrizio Romano, the agreement for a long-term extension is nearly finalized. Since making his first-team debut in November, Asencio has made 30 appearances, providing two assists and excelling in high-profile matches against teams like Manchester City and Atlético Madrid. With his current deal expiring in 2026, Real Madrid are eager to secure his future, ensuring the La Fábrica graduate remains a key part of the club’s long-term plans.


Álvaro Morata reflects on career moves, speaks on regretting Atletico Madrid exit.

Spain captain, Álvaro Morata has admitted he regrets leaving Atletico Madrid last summer, following his swift moves to AC Milan and then Galatasaray. Despite initially expressing his desire to remain in Madrid after Euro 2024, he unexpectedly joined Milan. During the tournament, he hinted at frustration with Atletico’s transfer strategy, saying, “If Atleti want to sign eight forwards, I imagine I’m not a priority.” Speaking to Cadena SER, Morata acknowledged his decision-making was clouded by difficult times. “I should have thought more about leaving Atletico,” he admitted, adding that Milan coach Paulo Fonseca’s persistence influenced him. Despite warnings from his father and agent Juanma Lopez, Morata later moved to Galatasaray after Fonseca’s departure. He explained he left Istanbul when he felt he had become a burden. The 32-year-old still dreams of retiring at Getafe, where his career began. Meanwhile, Atletico revamped their attack, signing Alexander Sørloth and Julián Álvarez for €110m.

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