Tag: Psg

Super Falcons captain Ajibade moves to PSG

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) Feminines have completed the signing of Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade on a free transfer.

The French giants announced the arrival of the 25-year-old attacker on Tuesday after she signed a two-year contract that will keep her in Paris until June 30, 2027.

Ajibade joins PSG following the expiration of her deal with Atletico Madrid Femenino, where she spent three seasons after leaving Norwegian side Avaldsnes IL in 2021. She will now team up with fellow Nigerian international Jennifer Echegini, who also plays for the Paris club.

The Lagos-born forward began her career at FC Robo Queens, before moving abroad to Norway at just 17. Her steady rise saw her establish herself in Spain with Atletico Madrid, where she became a key figure.

Ajibade recently captained Nigeria’s Super Falcons to their 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Morocco this July. She not only lifted the trophy but was also named the best player of the tournament, underlining her status as one of Africa’s leading footballers.

Beyond her on-field success, Ajibade has often spoken about her humble beginnings. She grew up in Mushin, Lagos, in what she described as a compound of “almost 100 people,” where she supported her family by hawking olive oil and soft drinks during church programmes. At times, she also washed toilets and bathrooms to earn money.

Her move to PSG marks a significant step in her career as she joins one of Europe’s biggest clubs, with expectations high for her to make an impact in both domestic and continental competitions.

27/08/2025
Luis Enrique calls PSG’s super cup victory a miracle

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique has described his team’s UEFA Super Cup victory over Tottenham Hotspur as a “miracle.”

PSG defeated Spurs 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a thrilling 2-2 draw in Italy on Wednesday. Tottenham had taken the lead through Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero in the first 84 minutes. However, late goals from substitutes Gonçalo Ramos and Lee Kang-in forced the game into penalties, where the French Ligue 1 champions ultimately triumphed.

Speaking to PSG TV after the match, Enrique praised his players’ resilience but admitted that the result defied expectations. “How crazy! That is the word, crazy… I have to say I’m very happy,” he said.

“I don’t think we deserved to win, because the difference between a team like Tottenham, who have had a lot of training, and us, who have only had five training sessions… It’s so different, I think it is a miracle,” he

15/08/2025
Donnarumma excluded from PSG squad for Super Cup

The relationship between Gianluigi Donnarumma and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has completely deteriorated.

According to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, this breakdown followed PSG’s decision to exclude Donnarumma from their squad for the UEFA Super Cup match against Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday.

This move strongly suggests that Donnarumma is set to leave the French champions either this summer or next.

The Italian goalkeeper has attracted interest from Premier League clubs and is reportedly keen on a move.

Recent reports indicate that Donnarumma is interested in joining Manchester United this summer.

PSG’s recent signing of goalkeeper Lucas Cheval has added competition, further complicating Donnarumma’s position.

With just one year remaining on his contract, Donnarumma has yet to renew his deal with the club managed by Luis Enrique.

12/08/2025
UEFA Super Cup final kicks off Wednesday night

The stage is set for Wednesday night as UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) face UEFA Europa League champions Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Super Cup final at Italy’s Bluenergy Stadium.

Both teams will battle to claim the title of Europe’s supreme club.

PSG secured the Champions League trophy last season with a dominant 5-0 victory over Inter Milan, powered by goals from Désiré Doué, Achraf Hakimi, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Senny Mayulu.

Tottenham claimed the Europa League crown after a narrow 1-0 win over Manchester United, courtesy of Brennan Johnson’s decisive strike.

Ahead of the clash, both squads have undergone changes since last season.

Tottenham have lost star forward Son Heung-min, who moved to MLS club Los Angeles FC this summer.

However, Spurs have reinforced their lineup with new signings including Mohammed Kudus, Mathys Tel, João Palhinha, and Kevin Danso, aiming to steer manager Thomas Frank’s side to Super Cup glory.

Their recent form shows a mixed bag: one win, one loss, and three draws in their last five games against Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Newcastle United, Luton Town, and Wycombe.

For PSG, this will be their first-ever UEFA Super Cup final.

The French giants also secured the Ligue 1 title and the French Cup last season.

Notable departures include Milan Škriniar and Ilyes Housni, who transferred to Fenerbahce and Le Havre respectively, while Lucas Chevalier joined the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 runner-up.

Since their recent defeat to Chelsea in the Club World Cup final last month, PSG have yet to play an official pre-season match.

Isa Saleh, co-founder of Borno Junior League, shared his thoughts on the upcoming final with DAILY POST.

He said, “The UEFA Super Cup final promises to be a tough encounter in Italy. Both teams had fantastic campaigns last season.

“PSG have not played pre-season friendlies due to their extended Club World Cup participation. Their last competitive match was the loss to Chelsea.

“Tottenham, meanwhile, have played several pre-season games with mixed results, including a 1-0 win over Arsenal.

“I expect a high-intensity, tightly contested match. PSG will be cautious facing an English side after their recent defeat to Chelsea.

“Tottenham could cause an upset — we saw surprises like Crystal Palace beating Liverpool in the Community Shield.”

When asked for his prediction, Saleh said, “2-1 to PSG, as they will be eager to learn from their last defeat.”

The UEFA Super Cup final kicks off at 8 p.m. Nigerian time on Wednesday.

12/08/2025
PSG’s Hakimi: “I have nothing to hide”

Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi has broken his silence on the rape allegations made against him, declaring his innocence in an interview with Foot Africa.

The Moroccan international is accused of raping a 24-year-old woman in March 2023, with French prosecutors in Nanterre recently calling for the case to go to trial.

Hakimi, however, maintains he has done nothing wrong.

“I am calm. Being falsely accused is horrible and unfair. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. I know the truth will come out,” he said.

“I have nothing to blame myself for, and those who know me are aware of that. I remain composed and focus on the important things in my life — namely family and football.”

The allegations claim Hakimi invited his accuser to his home in Boulogne-Billancourt while his wife and children were away on holiday.

11/08/2025
PSG Star Donnarumma Dismisses Exit Talks

Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma has ruled out a summer exit from the club, despite ongoing speculation about his future.

The 25-year-old, who won the UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, and French Cup last season, remains under contract with PSG until June 2026. Reports had suggested Donnarumma was seeking a salary increase, allegedly aiming to match the earnings of Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen.

However, football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Donnarumma and his representatives have no intention of leaving the French champions this summer.

Despite interest in other goalkeepers and internal competition, including the expected arrival of Lucas Chevalier, Donnarumma is reportedly committed to staying at PSG and fighting for his place, as he previously did against former teammate Keylor Navas.

Donnarumma joined PSG from AC Milan in 2021.

31/07/2025
Chelsea crush PSG in final to crown landmark season with global glory

Chelsea secured a historic 3–0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain on Sunday night at the MetLife Stadium, clinching the maiden edition of FIFA’s expanded 32-team Club World Cup in emphatic fashion.

The Premier League side stunned the UEFA Champions League winners, with Cole Palmer delivering a standout performance — scoring a brace and assisting once — to seal the triumph.

Palmer struck first midway through the opening half and doubled Chelsea’s lead by the 30th minute. He later turned provider, setting up Joao Pedro for the third goal in the 43rd minute, as Chelsea raced to a commanding 3–0 lead by halftime.

PSG, who had demolished Real Madrid 4–0 in the semifinals, entered the match as strong favourites. However, the French giants failed to replicate their previous form and were undone by Chelsea’s clinical execution and defensive discipline.

The game further soured for PSG late on, as midfielder Joao Neves was sent off in the 86th minute following a VAR review for violent conduct against Marc Cucurella.

The win caps a remarkable season for Chelsea, who not only became the first champions of the expanded Club World Cup, but also lifted the UEFA Conference League trophy and secured a fourth-place finish in the Premier League.

The Blues are also set to earn approximately $125 million in prize money from the tournament — a financial windfall that makes their packed fixture schedule and shortened off-season worthwhile.

Cole Palmer was named Most Valuable Player of the Tournament, while Robert Sánchez took home the award for Best Goalkeeper.

14/07/2025
Luis Enrique: ‘Real Madrid Game Is Special, Not About Mbappe’

Luis Enrique

Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has described the upcoming Club World Cup semi-final against Real Madrid as a “special” occasion but dismissed the significance of his reunion with former PSG star Kylian Mbappe, now at the Spanish club.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where the clash will take place on Wednesday night, Enrique emphasized the importance of the fixture while downplaying past tensions involving Mbappe.

“Playing against Real Madrid is always special,” Enrique stated. “We’re thrilled to be in this position. A Club World Cup semi-final is a huge achievement and a chance to fight for another title.”

This match will mark PSG’s first competitive meeting with Mbappe since the French forward’s high-profile summer switch to Real Madrid, following a season of controversy in Paris. During his final year at PSG, Mbappe was benched for refusing to sign a contract extension and saw limited playing time as a result.

Asked about the nature of his relationship with Mbappe, Enrique responded, “That belongs in the past. We’re focused on the present. This game is important on its own merit—we are one step away from another final, and that’s our motivation.”

PSG, fresh off winning their first-ever UEFA Champions League title, are chasing more silverware to cap a historic season. However, they will be without defenders Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernandez, both suspended following red cards in their dramatic quarter-final win over Bayern Munich.

On the opposite side, Real Madrid are entering a new chapter under freshly appointed head coach Xabi Alonso. The Spanish legend was unable to address the media after Madrid’s travel plans were disrupted by severe weather in Florida, delaying their flight to New York.

Enrique, who once played for both Barcelona and Real Madrid, had warm words for his former Spain teammate.

“Real Madrid are the most successful club in the world. Xabi is just starting out in this role, but he has everything needed to succeed. It’s always a pleasure to face them,” he said.

The winner of Wednesday’s match will face Chelsea in Sunday’s final. The Premier League side secured their spot with a 2-0 victory over Brazilian club Fluminense in the other semi-final.

09/07/2025
Palmeiras hold Miami in thriller as Messi eyes clash with former club

Lionel Messi is poised for a high-stakes reunion with former club Paris Saint-Germain after Inter Miami secured a spot in the last 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup with a dramatic 2-2 draw against Palmeiras.

The Brazilian side mounted a late comeback at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, cancelling out earlier goals from Tadeo Allende and Luis Suarez to claim a crucial point. The result ensured progression for both teams, with Inter Miami now set to face European champions PSG, while Palmeiras will meet fellow Brazilian side Botafogo in the next round.

Few had predicted Inter Miami’s advancement from Group A, but the MLS club’s strong tournament run has been a surprise package. For Messi, who turns 38 on Tuesday, the upcoming clash in Atlanta marks the first time he will face PSG since departing the French club in 2023.

“It’s a historic night for MLS,” said Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano. “We are among the best 16 teams in the world, and all of MLS should be proud.”

The match saw a fast-paced opening with Palmeiras nearly scoring early through Gustavo Gomez, only for Miami goalkeeper Oscar Ustari to make a crucial save. Miami responded in the 16th minute as Suarez brilliantly set up Allende, who sprinted through and finished clinically.

The Brazilian side struggled to contain Miami’s midfield, where Messi, Busquets, and Redondo controlled the tempo. Suarez doubled the lead in the 65th minute with a vintage solo effort, beating two defenders before firing into the top corner.

However, Palmeiras struck back with goals in the 80th and 87th minutes. Substitute Paulinho finished off a clever Allan Andrade pass, and Mauricio leveled the match after a defensive lapse left him unmarked.

Despite the disappointment of losing top spot in the group, Mascherano praised his side’s overall performance. “It’s tough to draw like that, but playing at this level against these teams is something I would’ve gladly taken before the tournament,” he said.

Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira was blunt in his halftime assessment, calling his team’s first-half display “unacceptable,” but he credited their second-half fightback. “We showed the character needed to stay in the competition,” he said.

Meanwhile, Egyptian giants Al Ahly and Portugal’s FC Porto bowed out after a thrilling 4-4 draw in New Jersey failed to produce a clear qualifier.

24/06/2025
PSG suspends Lionel Messi for two weeks over unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia

Lionel Messi suspended for two weeks by Paris Saint-Germain for making unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia
Superstar footballer, Lionel Messi has reportedly been suspended by Paris Saint-Germain for two weeks for making an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia on Monday May 1.

The Argentina World Cup winner had pre-arranged the visit for one of his commercial commitments as an ambassador for tourism there.

PSG players were supposed to be off on Monday, but following their 3-1 defeat to Lorient on Sunday, manager Christophe Galtier called the squad in for training instead.

Messi was already in transit to Saudi Arabia and unable to turn back.

When PSG players were photographed at their Camp des Loges training ground on Monday, Messi was a notable absentee.

The 35-year-old was pictured in Riyadh on Monday, with French outlet L’Equipe reporting he has been docked two weeks wages and will not train with the team during that time.

The trip was not sanctioned by Galtier, nor by sporting advisor Luís Campos, so the club have opened disciplinary proceedings.

As a result, the Argentina captain will miss the next two PSG games, at Troyes this Sunday, and against Ajaccio on Saturday, May 13.

Messi has been offered a new contract by PSG on the same financial terms. But he is yet to commit his future to the French club with Barcelona pushing for his return to Spain.

03/05/2023