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Nassef Sawiris: From Egyptian Billionaire to Global Sports and Business Icon

Ashry — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 12:59:10 +0000

By SME News Europe

Egyptian businessman Nassef Sawiris continues to solidify his position as one of the most influential figures in global business and sports. Known for his strategic investments and diversified portfolio, Sawiris has successfully bridged two seemingly different worlds: professional football and global sportswear business. His rise offers a blueprint for modern entrepreneurs looking to expand their influence internationally.

Early Career and Business Foundations

Born into the prominent Sawiris family, Nassef inherited a strong foundation in business. He currently chairs and owns stakes in major corporations including OCI N.V., a global fertilizer company, and Orascom Construction, a leading construction and engineering firm. These ventures provided him with the capital, expertise, and network necessary to venture into international investments in sports and fashion.

Investment in Adidas: From Shareholder to Potential Chairman

In 2015, Sawiris purchased approximately 6–7% of Adidas shares, making him the largest individual shareholder in the company. This move demonstrated not just his financial acumen but also his strategic vision in the sportswear industry.

His stake in Adidas is valued at over $3 billion, reflecting the company’s growth and Sawiris’ foresight in acquiring shares during market fluctuations.
In 2026, he was nominated for the position of Chairman of Adidas, a role that would give him unprecedented influence over one of the world’s leading sportswear brands.

This investment highlights a deliberate strategy: aligning with global brands to influence both business and sports culture.

Aston Villa: Football as a Global Business Platform

In 2018, Sawiris partnered with Wes Edens to acquire a controlling stake in Aston Villa Football Club, a historic Premier League team. The purchase was initially valued at £30 million, rescuing the club from financial instability.

Since the acquisition:

Aston Villa returned to the Premier League and increased its global fan base.
Investments in players, stadium infrastructure, and marketing elevated the club’s value to over £600 million.
The club now represents a platform for Sawiris to leverage global sports marketing opportunities, including partnerships with leading sportswear brands.

Sawiris’ model demonstrates that football clubs are more than sports entities—they are strategic assets for global brand positioning and investment.

Bridging Football and Fashion: A Unique Strategy

Sawiris’ dual investments in Adidas and Aston Villa illustrate a modern approach to business: integrating sports performance with brand influence. This strategy has three key advantages:

Brand Synergy: Football clubs create demand for sports apparel and merchandising.
Global Network Expansion: Ownership connects him directly to leagues, sponsors, and international markets.
Asset Appreciation: Strategic investments in undervalued assets like clubs and stock holdings maximize returns.

By positioning himself at the intersection of sports, entertainment, and business, Sawiris sets a model for cross-industry investment success.

Economic and Social Impact

Beyond personal wealth accumulation, Sawiris’ investments have broader economic implications:

Job creation in sports, marketing, and merchandising sectors.
Increased international exposure for Egyptian and Middle Eastern investors in European markets.
Strengthened ties between sports, media, and global retail industries.

Conclusion: A Global Business Vision in Motion

Nassef Sawiris is more than a billionaire; he is a strategic visionary who combines financial insight with passion for sports. His story demonstrates how modern entrepreneurship transcends borders and industries, blending finance, sports, and global branding.

For investors, sports enthusiasts, and business analysts alike, Sawiris represents a case study in leveraging capital, influence, and vision to achieve global prominence.

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Guardiola Laments Injury Blow as Man City’s Title Push Stalls Against Chelsea

Ashry — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 13:50:25 +0000

SME News Europe. Pep Guardiola admits “it doesn’t look good” for Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol after both defenders were forced off in Manchester City’s late 1-1 draw with Chelsea, leaving the champions six points behind Arsenal.Pep Guardiola has expressed concern over fresh injury problems after Manchester City’s Premier League title challenge suffered another setback in a dramatic 1-1 draw with Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium.City were heading for victory after Tijjani Reijnders’ first-half opener, but Enzo Fernandez struck in stoppage time to earn a point for managerless Chelsea. The late equaliser came after City were forced into defensive reshuffles following injuries to Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol during the second half.Defensive injuries raise alarm for GuardiolaBoth Dias and Gvardiol were withdrawn after sustaining injuries, leaving City to finish the match with Abdukodir Khusanov and Nathan Aké at centre-back.Speaking to the BBC after the match, Guardiola admitted the situation is worrying.“Apparently, it doesn’t look good,” he said. “We will see tomorrow. I think they will be on the sidelines for a few weeks.”The City boss added:“When you have all the squad, you can compete and rotate. But now it is a situation.”Gvardiol was helped off shortly after the restart following a challenge with Malo Gusto, appearing to injure his right ankle. Dias was substituted nine minutes from time but walked off unaided, suggesting his issue may be less serious.City’s injury list grows amid hectic scheduleThe defensive setbacks come just days after City lost Nico Gonzalez and Savinho to injuries in their draw at Sunderland, with both players missing Sunday’s clash. Guardiola’s side now face a demanding run of fixtures, starting with Brighton & Hove Albion on Wednesday, one of nine matches scheduled this month.Asked whether the injuries could affect January transfer plans, Guardiola admitted uncertainty.“I cannot change the schedule,” he said. “I have no idea if this will change our plans.”There were positives for City, however, as Rodri made his first start since early October, while Jeremy Doku continued his return from injury with another substitute appearance.Guardiola praises performance despite dropped pointsDespite surrendering points late on, Guardiola was pleased with City’s overall display.“Chelsea is a world champion team,” he said. “To control a team like that for 90 minutes is so difficult.“We missed chances in the second half — four or five situations where we should have finished the game. But how we defended, how we ran, how we played was extraordinary.”The result leaves City six points behind league leaders Arsenal in the title race.Reece James proud of Chelsea response after Maresca exitChelsea captain Reece James praised his side’s resilience after a turbulent week that saw head coach Enzo Maresca depart on New Year’s Day following a poor run of results.With Under-21 coach Calum McFarlane taking charge on an interim basis, Chelsea battled back to secure a valuable point.“It’s been difficult, of course,” James told Sky Sports. “But we had to fight for each other. We dug in and got the point.“We missed many players, but others stepped up. We fought as a team, and I’m proud of the boys.”James also credited the coaching staff for adapting quickly under pressure.“To come to Manchester City away as your first first-team game is difficult,” he said. “We grew into the game and adapted well.”Chelsea future still uncertainChelsea remain without a permanent head coach, with Liam Rosenior widely reported as a leading candidate. However, James insisted the players are focused solely on performances.“We know nothing at the moment,” he said. “This week was about this game. What happens behind the scenes is not down to us.”The draw leaves Chelsea fifth in the Premier League, three points off the top four and level on points with Manchester United, ahead only on goal difference.As City assess the extent of their injury concerns and Chelsea continue their search for stability, both clubs face crucial weeks that could define their seasons.

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Napoli Set £74m Rasmus Højlund Release Clause as Manchester United Defender Considers Loan Exit – Paper Round

Ashry — Sun, 04 Jan 2026 10:55:11 +0000

SME News Europe Napoli are reportedly planning to safeguard their investment in Rasmus Højlund by inserting a substantial £74.3 million release clause into the striker’s contract once his move from Manchester United is completed this summer. Elsewhere, United defender Harry Amass is weighing up a fresh loan move, Fulham face resistance in their pursuit of Arthur Atta, and Celtic are considering multiple managerial options should Wilfried Nancy depart.Napoli Move to Protect Højlund InvestmentNapoli are confident they will complete the permanent signing of Rasmus Højlund and are already preparing long-term protections for the Danish forward.According to the Daily Mail, the Serie A club paid £5.24 million for an initial loan and are obligated to buy the striker for £38.46 million on July 1, provided Antonio Conte’s side qualify for the UEFA Champions League. Even if they fail to secure qualification, Napoli still retain an option to make the deal permanent.Sporting director Giovanni Manna has downplayed any uncertainty surrounding the transfer, describing it as “a formality,” while stressing that both player and club already view the arrangement as permanent.Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has reportedly moved swiftly to insert a £74.3m release clause, effective from the summer of 2027. The valuation is already being described internally as conservative given Højlund’s age, development trajectory, and market demand.Harry Amass Open to Sheffield Wednesday ExitManchester United left-back Harry Amass could be on the move again, with the teenager considering an early end to his loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday.The Sun reports that Stoke City, currently eighth in the Championship and pushing for promotion, are monitoring the 18-year-old as they look to strengthen their defensive options.Amass has been a regular at Hillsborough, starting all 20 Championship matches when available. However, Wednesday sit bottom of the table following two separate points deductions, while Stoke can offer a more competitive environment and a potential Premier League pathway.Despite guaranteed minutes at Wednesday, the opportunity to compete at a higher level could prove decisive.Fulham Face Resistance Over Arthur Atta DealFulham may need to significantly improve their opening bid if they are to sign Arthur Atta from Udinese this month.The Italian club have no intention of selling the 22-year-old midfielder, who only joined permanently last summer but has already attracted interest from across Europe. Described as tall, athletic, and technically gifted, Atta is viewed as a long-term asset in Udinese’s squad.Fulham have been active early in the January transfer window as they seek reinforcements following a difficult summer of recruitment, but it remains unclear whether they will return with an improved offer.Celtic Line Up Four Managerial AlternativesCeltic are reportedly drawing up contingency plans amid speculation surrounding Wilfried Nancy’s future following defeat to Rangers.The Daily Express names Ange Postecoglou, Ralph Hasenhüttl, Gary O’Neil, and Kieran McKenna as potential replacements should the club decide to make a change.Postecoglou remains a popular figure in Glasgow after his successful tenure before joining Tottenham, while Hasenhüttl is currently unattached and would not require compensation. O’Neil has previously been linked with the role, and McKenna is viewed as an ambitious but costly option.If Nancy is dismissed, Celtic would be appointing their third permanent manager this season, underlining the growing pressure .

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‘Absolutely Horrendous’ Recruitment Has Left Danny Rohl With ‘No Chance’ at Rangers, Says Ally McCoist

Ashry — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 13:13:09 +0000

SME News Europe. Oslo — Ally McCoist has launched a scathing assessment of Rangers’ recruitment strategy, claiming new head coach Danny Rohl has “absolutely no chance” of restoring the club to former glories following their 3-0 defeat to Brann in the UEFA Europa League.The loss in Norway marked Rohl’s first game in charge since replacing Russell Martin, but McCoist believes the German has inherited a squad ill-equipped to compete at the level expected of the Ibrox side.> “Can he improve them? He probably can,” McCoist told. “Can he take that squad of players to a level that Rangers should be at? Absolutely no chance, no chance.“The recruitment’s been horrendous, absolutely horrendous. It’s agony for me to say, but they look like wee boys sometimes in the majority of games I’ve seen.“It’s a heavy jersey, and it’s a really heavy jersey when things aren’t going well. [Rohl] might be the best coach on the planet, but I’m not sure he’s got an awful lot to work with at this moment in time.”Rohl, who previously worked alongside Hansi Flick at Bayern Munich and with the German national team, left Sheffield Wednesday in July before taking over at Ibrox earlier this month.Rangers’ defeat in Norway was their third in three Europa League outings this season, leaving them bottom of the league phase table. No side in the competition has conceded more goals, with six shipped in just three matches.The Glasgow giants’ struggles have also carried into domestic competition — they currently sit sixth in the Scottish Premiership after eight games, 13 points behind league leaders Hearts.Former Rangers defender Alan Hutton echoed McCoist’s criticism, describing the club’s European performance as “painful to watch.”> “To have one shot on target against the lowest-seeded team in the competition is really poor,” Hutton said. “Defensively, it’s the same story we’ve seen all season — gaps everywhere.“This goes deeper than managers. You can’t judge Danny Rohl on one game, it’s going to take time. But recruitment’s the big issue for me. It was crying out for experience and leadership at the start of the season. They didn’t get that, went down a different route, and now look where they are.”As Rohl begins the daunting task of reviving Rangers’ fortunes, both McCoist and Hutton believe only a major overhaul in recruitment can give the German coach a fighting chance of success.

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Brendan Rodgers Hits Back at ‘Experts’ as Celtic Rally to Defeat Sturm Graz in Europa League

Ashry — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 12:53:05 +0000

SME News Europe. By [Ahmed Elashry]Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has fired back at “outside experts” after his side produced a stirring comeback to beat Sturm Graz 2-1 in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday night.The Scottish champions arrived in Austria under heavy scrutiny, having suffered a 2-0 defeat to Dundee at the weekend and gone seven European matches without a win since January. That pressure only intensified when Tomi Horvat put the hosts ahead with a stunning 30-yard strike in the first half.But Rodgers’ men responded in style. Goals from Liam Scales and Benjamin Nygren after the break secured Celtic’s first Europa League victory of the season and lifted the mood among travelling supporters.> “It was a brilliant performance,” Rodgers told. “I mentioned beforehand that after setbacks, you need that motivation to go and show leadership. From pressure — and there was pressure going into the game — you can make progress. I thought the players did that. Our attacking play and energy were much more like what we want.”The result came just days after Rodgers made headlines for comparing his current squad to a “Honda Civic” when asked about expectations following Celtic’s sluggish start to the campaign — a remark some pundits took as a dig at his players.Responding to the criticism after the win in Graz, the Celtic boss didn’t hold back.> “Maybe all the outside experts will say it was poor management and it would never work,” Rodgers said. “But for me, these players know how much I trust them. Sometimes you have to be harsh to be clear. These are men — at a big club where competition and effort are everything.”Rodgers praised the mentality of his side for overturning their deficit, insisting the performance represented the true Celtic spirit.> “We were so good in the game. We had to come from behind to a brilliant goal, but we didn’t get disappointed — we stayed focused, and the football was excellent,” he added. “As poor as we were on Sunday, tonight was the total opposite.”The victory eases some of the growing pressure on Rodgers and restores belief ahead of a crucial run of domestic fixtures as Celtic look to close the gap on Premiership leaders Hearts.

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Ally McCoist Identifies Missing Player Who Could Cost Liverpool the Premier League Title

Ashry — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 19:54:57 +0000

SME News Europe. Liverpool’s hopes of retaining their Premier League crown could be undermined by one key omission in the transfer window — according to Scottish football legend Ally McCoist.Speaking on The Breakdown, McCoist analyzed Liverpool’s mixed start to the season, with Arne Slot’s side sitting second in the table, one point behind Arsenal. Despite being widely tipped as favourites to defend their title, the Reds have endured a shaky opening, losing twice in their first seven league games and conceding nine goals — more than any other team in the top six.McCoist believes Liverpool’s defensive frailties stem from a failure to strengthen in one crucial position.> “I’ve gone for Liverpool right at the start of the season [to win the title] as I thought they had an unbelievable window,” McCoist said.“I thought they were brilliant last year, and I thought they’d strengthened. What might — time will tell — cost Liverpool is a player they never got, never mind the players they did get.”Pressed to reveal which player he meant, McCoist pinpointed Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi as the missing piece in Liverpool’s back line. The Reds reportedly came close to securing a deal for the England international before Palace pulled out at the last minute after failing to find a replacement.Former England midfielder Joe Cole echoed McCoist’s concerns, suggesting the aborted move has had a negative impact on Ibrahima Konaté’s form.> “Konaté looks like he’s been space-jammed so far this year — he’s not at it,” Cole said.“He would have been reading the news, expecting Marc Guehi to come in. How much has his head been turned, the ego bruised a little bit?Once you come off that focus a little bit, as a professional, you can have a bad game and it can go. He’s a top player, and if he comes back, those stats will change.”Liverpool have managed only two clean sheets so far this season, conceding six more goals than Arsenal. Analyst Owen Hargreaves believes their defensive instability also stems from uncertainty in other positions.> “I think [Slot] has to figure out who his right-back is,” Hargreaves noted.“He’s got Conor Bradley, and I think that is affecting Konaté. The structure of the midfield is different. If they sort things out defensively, they’ll be fine.”Fernandes Shines Amid Manchester United’s StrugglesWhile Liverpool battle to rediscover their defensive solidity, upcoming opponents Manchester United face problems of their own. The Red Devils sit tenth in the table, with just three wins from seven games under Rúben Amorim.Hargreaves was quick to single out Bruno Fernandes as United’s standout performer, but questioned the manager’s decision to alter his position following the arrivals of Benjamin Šeško and Matheus Cunha.> “Bruno is by far their best player by a country mile,” Hargreaves said.“And then they go and sign two No. 10s to play his position, so he has to play almost as a defensive midfielder.He’s probably the best No. 10 in the division along with Cole Palmer — so why move him? Sign a central midfielder and let Bruno do his thing.”With Liverpool looking to tighten up defensively and United desperate for consistency, the two clubs’ meeting this weekend promises to be one of the most fascinating fixtures of the season so far.

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WSL Round-Up: Walsh Fires Chelsea to Derby Win as United Shine at Hill Dickinson Stadium

Ashry — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 15:49:06 +0000

SME News Europe. Keira Walsh’s second-half strike ensured Chelsea maintained their unbeaten start to the Women’s Super League season with a hard-fought victory over Tottenham, while Manchester United continued their impressive run with a comeback win against Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.Walsh Strike Seals Chelsea’s Derby TriumphKeira Walsh’s decisive goal kept defending champions Chelsea two points clear at the top of the WSL table after a 1–0 win over Tottenham Hotspur.The Blues dominated large spells of the London derby but had to wait until the 61st minute to find the breakthrough. Walsh latched onto Ellie Carpenter’s clever lay-off before firing beyond Lize Kop with a precise finish.Chelsea’s fifth win in six games sees them extend their unbeaten start under new boss Emma Hayes, while Spurs remain fourth on 12 points after a spirited display.—Manchester United Battle Back to Win at Hill Dickinson StadiumManchester United overcame an early setback to claim a commanding 4–1 victory over Everton in the first-ever WSL fixture at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.The hosts took the lead through Honoka Hayashi, who pounced on a misjudged clearance from Phallon Tullis-Joyce. But United rallied in the second half, with Melvine Malard levelling the score in the 62nd minute after breaking clear to slot past Emily Ramsey.An unfortunate own goal from Hikaru Kitagawa handed United the lead eight minutes later before Jess Park sealed the win with two late strikes.The result keeps United within touching distance of league leaders Chelsea, while Everton remain 10th with just one win this season.—West Ham Still Searching for First WinWest Ham United’s wait for a first WSL victory goes on after a 1–0 defeat to London City Lionesses.Despite a promising first-half display, the Hammers were undone by a costly error from goalkeeper Kinga Szemik, whose misplaced clearance allowed Kosovare Asllani to score from close range.The loss leaves West Ham bottom of the table with six defeats from six, while newly promoted London City climb to fifth with nine points following another solid performance.—Villa and Leicester Share the PointsAston Villa and Leicester City played out a goalless draw at Villa Park, with both sides left to rue missed opportunities.Villa dominated the opening half, only to be denied by a string of fine saves from Leicester goalkeeper Janina Leitzig. In the second half, Georgia Mullett came close to snatching a winner for the hosts but headed Kirsty Hanson’s pinpoint cross over the bar.The result leaves Villa eighth in the standings, one place ahead of Leicester on goal difference.

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Harry Kane ‘More Than Welcome’ Back at Tottenham, Says Thomas Frank After Release Clause Revealed

Ashry — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 12:17:17 +0000

SME News Europe. Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank has admitted he would be delighted to see Harry Kane return to north London, following revelations that the striker’s Bayern Munich contract includes clauses favouring a Spurs reunion.Kane left Tottenham in the summer of 2023 for a reported £100 million move to Bayern Munich, where he has enjoyed a prolific spell in front of goal. Since arriving in Bavaria, the England captain has netted an extraordinary 98 goals in 103 matches, helping Bayern to a Bundesliga title and the German Super Cup.His most recent outing was another reminder of his lethal finishing ability, as he scored a hat-trick in Bayern’s 4-1 victory over Hoffenheim — his ninth treble in the Bundesliga, moving him to seventh on the league’s all-time list for hat-tricks.Despite his stellar form, reports suggest Kane’s contract contains clauses that could pave the way for a Tottenham return. Bayern are said to have inserted a £67m release clause active in January 2025, which will reportedly drop to £54m in the following transfer window. Spurs are also believed to have ‘first option’ rights, meaning they would have the chance to match any accepted bid.When asked about the possibility of reuniting with the club’s all-time leading scorer, Frank gave a candid response.> “There are a lot of Tottenham fans, including myself, who would like to see Kane back,” he said.“Personally, I don’t think he will do it right now, if I’m honest. He’ll probably stay in Bayern and continue performing well. He was the top scorer last year. He won the title and he’s doing fantastic now. But if he wants to join us, he’s more than welcome.”Kane has started the new season in typically ruthless fashion, scoring 13 goals in just seven games. He also delivered on the Champions League stage with a brace against Chelsea in a 3-1 win, underlining his continued influence against Premier League opposition.However, despite his exploits, Kane missed out on a top-10 finish in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings, finishing 13th overall.Kane’s legacy at Tottenham remains untouchable. A product of the club’s academy, he rose through the ranks with loan spells at Leyton Orient, Millwall, Norwich City and Leicester City before establishing himself as Spurs’ talisman. By the time he departed, he had scored 280 goals in 435 appearances, making him the club’s record goalscorer.For now, Kane looks set to continue his journey in Munich, but with the release clause in place and Frank’s open invitation, Tottenham supporters can dream of a future chapter for their former No. 10 back in Lilywhite.

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Men’s 2025 Ballon d’Or Power Rankings: Will Ousmane Dembélé or Lamine Yamal Claim the Crown?

Ashry — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 13:53:23 +0000

SME News Europe. The wait is almost over. The 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony takes place on Monday, September 22, and the football world is braced to see who will succeed Lionel Messi as the next holder of the game’s most prestigious individual award.With the voting period covering performances across the 2024/25 season, the die is already cast. Now, it’s simply a matter of anticipation before the winner is revealed. The debate has raged all year—particularly between Barcelona duo Ousmane Dembélé and Lamine Yamal—but only one name can be etched into history.Here is our final Top 10 Ballon d’Or Power Rankings ahead of the big night.10. Gianluigi Donnarumma (Manchester City)No goalkeeper has won the Ballon d’Or since Lev Yashin in 1963, and Donnarumma is unlikely to break that drought despite a stellar season.The Italian produced plenty of standout moments, but without defining performances in the Champions League final or Club World Cup, he falls short of the near-impossible standards required for goalkeepers to win this award.9. Cole Palmer (Chelsea)Palmer was instrumental in Chelsea’s Conference League and Club World Cup triumphs, delivering when it mattered most.His finishing ability and calmness in big moments have drawn comparisons with the game’s greats, and pundits believe he is a future Ballon d’Or winner. For now, though, the absence of Champions League football and a major international tournament keeps him on the outside looking in.8. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)A debut season of 43 goals for Real Madrid would usually be enough to put Mbappé in contention. But without any major team trophies, even the French superstar knew his chances were slim—so much so that he has confirmed he won’t even attend the ceremony. His time will come, but 2025 isn’t his year.7. Nuno Mendes (Paris Saint-Germain)Mendes enjoyed an excellent season with PSG, capped by a UEFA Nations League win with Portugal. Arguably the best left-back in world football right now, his defensive solidity and attacking flair made him stand out. Still, as history shows, defenders rarely get the recognition they deserve at Ballon d’Or level.6. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)For much of the season, Salah looked destined to finally win the award. He spearheaded Liverpool’s Premier League triumph but fell short in the Champions League, while narrowly missing out on a record-breaking 20+ goals and 20+ assists season.Salah remains world-class, but without European or international success, the wait for a Ballon d’Or goes on.5. Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain)Hakimi continues to redefine the modern full-back role. His ability to attack inside or out wide, create chances, and chip in with goals makes him one of PSG’s most influential players.Though Mendes lifted silverware with Portugal, Hakimi’s overall impact was greater. Still, history suggests a Ballon d’Or for a defender will take something extraordinary.4. Raphinha (Barcelona)Once deemed expendable, Raphinha has become one of Barcelona’s leaders and most important players.His remarkable tally of 34 goals and 22 assists highlights both consistency and productivity. While his young teammate (ranked higher) may prevent him from ever lifting the Ballon d’Or, Raphinha’s rise has been inspirational—and he has cemented himself as a world-class performer. The Top 3 — featuring Lamine Yamal and Ousmane Dembélé — will be revealed shortly. Who will take the crown? Stay tuned.

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Paper Round: Rashford’s Barcelona Move in Doubt, Guehi Eyes Real Madrid, Potter Under Pressure, Arsenal Chase Brazilian StarRashford’s Barcelona Future in Jeopardy

Ashry — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 10:48:12 +0000

SME News Europe. Marcus Rashford’s hopes of a permanent move to Barcelona have been dealt a blow after La Liga slashed the club’s spending limit by nearly £100 million.The Manchester United forward, currently on loan at the Camp Nou, has impressed with two goals in Barca’s Champions League victory over Newcastle at St James’ Park. However, despite his strong start in Spain, Barcelona’s ability to secure his long-term services is under threat.La Liga confirmed on Friday that the Catalan giants’ salary cap for the 2025/26 season has been reduced from €463 million to €351 million – a drop of €112m (£96m). This cap covers salaries, transfer fees, and other squad costs. Should clubs exceed the limit, new signings will not be registered, regardless of their profile.Guehi Turns Down Liverpool for Real MadridMarc Guehi looks set to reject Liverpool and pursue a move to Real Madrid.According to The Mirror, the Crystal Palace and England defender has informed his advisors that his priority is a switch to the Bernabéu after his £35 million move to Anfield collapsed late in the summer window. Palace pulled the plug after failing to find a replacement, leaving Guehi to run down his contract.The 25-year-old could now leave as a free agent, with Madrid also monitoring Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté, who is allowing his contract to expire. Guehi’s decision represents a significant setback for Arne Slot’s Premier League champions.Potter on the Brink at West HamGraham Potter’s tenure at West Ham United hangs by a thread after a 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace left the Hammers languishing in 18th place.Supporters voiced their frustration with chants of “you’re getting sacked in the morning”, and while Potter insists he retains the board’s backing, club officials are already exploring alternatives.The Daily Mail reports that former West Ham boss Slaven Bilic and ex-Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo are among the candidates being considered should results not improve swiftly.Arsenal Join Race for BenedettiArsenal are set to battle Barcelona and Napoli for Palmeiras’ highly rated left-back Luiz Benedetti.The 19-year-old Brazilian has attracted widespread attention in South America, with Mundo Deportivo reporting that the Gunners are ready to rival Barcelona in pursuit of his signature ahead of the 2026 winter transfer window.Despite already boasting strong depth at left-back – including Riccardo Calafiori, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and £45 million signing Piero Hincapié – Mikel Arteta is believed to see Benedetti as a long-term investment.

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