logo
Bayern's Neuer and Upamecano return to training

Bayern's Neuer and Upamecano return to training

Daily Tribune22-04-2025

Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer and French international defender Dayot Upamecano returned to training yesterday, raising hopes they could play again this season.
Bayern issued a statement saying Upamecano, Neuer and back-up goalie Daniel Peretz had returned to training with the ball.
Both Neuer and Upamecano have been out since March.
Upamecano suffered a left knee injury in the Nations League quarterfinal penalty shoot-out victory over Croatia. Neuer suffered a calf injury during Bayern's Champions League last-16 first leg win over Bayer Leverkusen in early March.
Bayern are on course to win the Bundesliga title, they are eight points clear of defending champions Leverkusen with four matches remaining

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

‘Italian genius' Inzaghi to coach Saudi Arabia's Al Hilal
‘Italian genius' Inzaghi to coach Saudi Arabia's Al Hilal

Daily Tribune

time15 hours ago

  • Daily Tribune

‘Italian genius' Inzaghi to coach Saudi Arabia's Al Hilal

Former Inter boss Simone Inzaghi was revealed as the new coach of Saudi Arabia's Al Hilal yesterday, days before they take part in the new-look Club World Cup. The Italian, who led Inter to a heavy defeat in Saturday's Champions League final, had earlier played down rumours of a two-year deal worth 50 million euros. 'I am Simone Inzaghi and today begins my story with Al Hilal,' he said in a slickly produced video posted on X, in which he sips Arabian coffee and pins an Al Hilal lapel badge on his suit. Inzaghi, 49, becomes just the latest high-profile footballing acquisition for oil-rich Saudi Arabia, which will host the World Cup in 2034. 'The Italian genius is here,' Al Hilal posted. 'Welcome, Simone Inzaghi.'

Ronaldo Rolls Back Years, Portugal Stun Germany
Ronaldo Rolls Back Years, Portugal Stun Germany

Daily Tribune

time2 days ago

  • Daily Tribune

Ronaldo Rolls Back Years, Portugal Stun Germany

TDT | Manama The 40-year-old scores again as Portugal reach the Nations League final for the second time. Portugal Break Longstanding German Hoodoo Cristiano Ronaldo delivered yet another decisive moment on Wednesday night, scoring the winner in Portugal's 2-1 comeback victory over Germany to book a place in the UEFA Nations League final. His 137th international goal came five minutes after Francisco Conceição's equaliser, completing a dramatic turnaround in Munich. The result marks Portugal's first win over Germany in 24 years, the last coming at Euro 2000 — a game remembered for a Sergio Conceição hat-trick. On this occasion, it was Sergio's son Francisco who played a key role, highlighting the symbolic passing of a generational baton. Portugal will now face either Spain or France in Sunday's final, aiming to reclaim the title they won in the inaugural edition of the competition in 2019. Costa the Early Hero Germany had the better of the first half, pressing high and creating chances, but Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa stood firm. The Porto shot-stopper was in inspired form, making key early saves from Leon Goretzka and Nick Woltemade before denying Goretzka again with a sharp low stop. Despite their dominance, Germany couldn't find a breakthrough before half-time — largely thanks to Costa's quick reflexes and assured positioning. Second Half Sparks Into Life Germany took a deserved lead in the 48th minute, Florian Wirtz nodding in from close range after a clever lofted assist from Joshua Kimmich. But the goal seemed to awaken Portugal, and Roberto Martínez's side gradually imposed themselves. Conceição, introduced from the bench, levelled the match in the 63rd minute, arriving at the far post to turn in a low cross. Then, with the German defence momentarily disorganised, Nuno Mendes burst forward and found Ronaldo for a simple tap-in — a typically clinical finish from the Portugal captain. Ronaldo's Longevity, Portugal's Composure Ronaldo's decisive goal underscored not only his longevity but his continued value in high-stakes fixtures. While he now plays a reduced club role, his instincts and leadership remain sharp at international level. The 40-year-old celebrated with his teammates as Portugal completed a landmark win — their first over Germany this century. Head coach Roberto Martínez praised both the tactical application and mental resilience of his squad. 'Tactically we were exceptional and our commitment helped... it was a team victory,' he said. Germany Left to Reflect For Germany, the loss was a blow on what should have been a milestone evening for captain Joshua Kimmich, earning his 100th cap. After a bright start and a 1-0 lead, the hosts faded as Portugal gained control. Karim Adeyemi struck the post late on, and goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen had to make two sharp saves to prevent a third. Kimmich didn't hold back in his assessment. 'The defeat is absolutely deserved... If we're not at 100%, we can't beat a top European team,' he said post-match. Main Takeaways Did you know?

Fernandes Stays Loyal, Rejects Al Hilal
Fernandes Stays Loyal, Rejects Al Hilal

Daily Tribune

time2 days ago

  • Daily Tribune

Fernandes Stays Loyal, Rejects Al Hilal

TDT | Manama Bruno Fernandes, the heartbeat of Manchester United's midfield, has turned down a lucrative offer from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, opting to chase glory at the highest level with the Reds. The Portuguese star's decision speaks to his ambition to compete in Europe's elite competitions, despite a turbulent season for the club. A Tempting Offer from the Desert Al Hilal's approach was bold. A month ago, their president personally reached out to Fernandes, presenting an offer reported to be four times his current salary. The financial package was staggering, a testament to the Saudi Pro League's growing ambition to attract global stars. Fernandes admitted the proposal gave him pause. 'It was a big offer, very ambitious,' he told reporters while on international duty with Portugal. 'There was a waiting period for me to think about the future.' The allure of such wealth would test any player, but Fernandes' deliberations went beyond the paycheck. This was a decision about legacy, ambition, and where he sees his career at 30. Old Trafford's Pull Ultimately, Fernandes chose to stay, a decision shaped by conversations with his family and Manchester United's head coach, Ruben Amorim. The club made their stance clear: they had no intention of letting their captain go unless he pushed for an exit. Amorim's influence was pivotal, with the coach urging Fernandes to remain and help steer United through their rebuild. 'I spoke to the coach, who really tried to talk me out of it,' Fernandes revealed. 'The club said they would not be willing to sell me, only if I wanted to leave.' His family played an equally crucial role. 'I spoke to my wife and family, and she asked me what my personal goals were in my career,' Fernandes said. Those goals, it seems, are tied to the Premier League and the Champions League, competitions where United aim to reassert themselves. 'I want to keep myself at the highest level, playing in the big competitions, and I feel capable of it,' he added. 'I am happy with my decision.' A Season of Highs and Lows Fernandes' commitment comes after a bittersweet campaign. The 30-year-old delivered 19 goals and 19 assists in 57 appearances across all competitions, earning Manchester United's Player of the Year award for the fourth time. His performances were a rare bright spot in a season that saw United slump to 15th in the Premier League—their lowest finish in 50 years—and fall to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final. Despite the team's struggles, Fernandes' individual brilliance never wavered. His vision, work rate, and knack for decisive moments have made him indispensable, both as a player and as a leader. His decision to stay signals belief in United's potential to climb back to the top under Amorim's guidance. Statement of Intent By rejecting Al Hilal, Fernandes has drawn a line in the sand. This is a player driven not by financial gain but by the pursuit of silverware and the challenge of restoring Manchester United to their former heights. The Saudi Pro League's riches will continue to tempt, but Fernandes' focus remains on the Theatre of Dreams, where he believes he can still shape the club's future. As United prepare for the next season, Fernandes' loyalty offers a foundation to build upon. With Amorim's vision taking shape and a squad eager to redeem last season's disappointments, the captain's resolve could be the spark that ignites a revival. For now, Old Trafford breathes a sigh of relief: their talisman is staying put.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store