“I Would Have Loved to Have Everyone Available” – Pimienta Explains Iheanacho’s Bench Role

Published

6 months ago

December 3, 2024

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Sevilla’s head coach, García Pimienta, has explained his decision to leave Kelechi Iheanacho on the bench throughout Monday night’s intense 1-1 draw against Osasuna.

The Nigerian forward, who joined Sevilla on a free transfer during the summer, was expected to feature in the match but was sidelined for the full 90 minutes.

Speaking after the game, Pimienta clarified that unforeseen circumstances forced him to adjust his plans.

Injuries to key players Sambi Lokonga and Lucien Agoumé disrupted his substitution strategy, leading to Iheanacho’s exclusion.

“I would have loved to have all players available,” Pimienta explained.

“Kelechi couldn’t come on because of Lokonga’s discomfort, and Agoumé had to step in instead. Saúl is a very experienced player.

He was brought in to help the team in difficult moments, and he played well considering the circumstances.”

Iheanacho, 28, joined Sevilla after a stint at Leicester City and has featured in seven league games for the Andalusian side this season.

Gary Neville Says Arsenal Will Win Premier League Next Season

Published

2 hours ago

June 3, 2025

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Manchester United legend Gary Neville has tipped Arsenal to win the English Premier League next season, believing it’s finally their time to end the title drought since 2004. Arsenal have been knocking on the door for a while, finishing second for three straight seasons under Mikel Arteta. Their point totals have been impressive — 84, 89, and most recently 74 points in the 2024-25 campaign.

Speaking on The Overlap, Neville shared his prediction for the 2025-26 season, saying, “I have to back Arsenal again. I’ve been saying it the last couple of seasons, and they’ve finished second three years running. I’m sticking with them.” Last season, the Gunners ended the campaign 10 points behind champions Liverpool but Neville clearly believes their breakthrough is near.

Sport

“We’re Not Afraid of Super Eagles, We Must Beat Them at Home” – Krugovoy

Published

2 hours ago

June 3, 2025

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Russia defender Danil Krugovoy has made it clear that his team isn’t intimidated by the upcoming clash with the Super Eagles of Nigeria. The friendly match is set to take place this Friday at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, where Russia will host the three-time African champions.

Nigeria heads into the game with strong momentum, having gone unbeaten in their last four matches and recently winning the Unity Cup in London. Despite the Super Eagles’ solid form, Krugovoy remains confident.

“There’s no pressure—we’re playing at home,” he said in a chat with Match TV. “I’m hoping for a full stadium. Nigeria is a strong side, but we must beat them on our own turf.”

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Gavi Says Yamal Deserves to Win 2025 Ballon d’Or After Exceptional Season

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2 hours ago

June 3, 2025

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Barcelona star Gavi has shared his top picks for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, backing two familiar faces—his teammates Lamine Yamal and Ousmane Dembele. In his view, Dembele deserves a spot in the top three after a brilliant season with PSG, where he played a key role in their Champions League triumph, including a dominant 5-0 win over Inter Milan in the final.

But for Gavi, the real standout is 17-year-old Yamal. He believes the young winger should take home the award, calling him a one-of-a-kind talent. “Dembele’s season has been incredible, no doubt he belongs in the top three. But what Lamine has done is on another level,” Gavi said during an interview with Catalunya Radio.

Yamal wrapped up the season with 18 goals and 25 assists in 55 matches, playing a massive role in helping Barcelona secure a domestic treble—LaLiga, Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup.