Caroline Celico, the ex-wife of the former World Best footballer, Kaka has disclosed why their marriage fell apart.
According to Caroline, the Brazilian football legend ‘was too perfect for her’.
In her own words “Kaka never betrayed me, he always treated me well, he gave me a wonderful family, but I was not happy, something was missing. The problem was that, he was too perfect for me”
The African footballing sphere has in recent times seen many phenomenal stars. Domestically and internationally, the continent has put some of the very best on the scene.
While some of these players have gone on to achieve good fortunes with both club side and nation in the past decade, some have failed to live up to the expectation of staying at the very top.
Here are some of the lot who have not given a decent return on investment over the past decade.
Nicolas Pepe
Arsenal FC brought on the Ivorian international fresh off leading Lille OSC to the French Ligué un title. Signed for the then record for an African player, Pepe didn’t quite transcend the levels of his previous team to Arsenal.
Ivorian international Nicolas Pepe in a football match for Arsenal FC (Source The Telegraph)
His time at North-London had few moments of brilliance that could have justified the heavy price tag he commanded while the other part off the field issues, time on the bench and squabbles with the managerial team.
This window of missed opportunities gave time to youngster of Nigerian descent Bukayo Saka to fully cement the right wing spot of the London heavyweights as his.
Jordon Ibe
Ibe of Nigerian and English descent became a big part of the Liverpool team in 2015. 3 years after joining from Wycombe Wanderers.
Jordon Ibe during his time with AFC Bournemouth in the English first division (Source Goal.com)
The former English youth international scored 4 senior goals in over half a century appearances. With Klopp’s arrival at Merseyside, he made a move to AFC Bournemouth where he racked up 96 appearances in the ensuing 4 years.
Post lockdown, he made just an appearance in combined stints for Derby county and Adanaspor. The exciting and explosive Jordon Ibe tipped for greatness by the Kop faithful now currently plies his trade in the national league having joined Ebbsfleet as a free agent.
Dele Alampasu
The 2013 U-17 golden gloves winner was encouraged by many quarters to be the heir apparent to Vincent Enyeama.
Dele Alampasu in action with the Golden Eaglets (via Brilla FM)
The 6ft6 goalkeeper had a tournament to remember as the Golden Eaglets won their 4th world championship. Having undergone trials with Genk, Braga and Real Oviedo, he finally secured a contract with Estoril in Portugal.
He spent 3 months at the club over contractual issues and signed for Feirense in the same country where he kick-started his career.
Many would have expected Alampasu to have morphed into a world-class goalkeeper and amongst the lead ones in the continent by this time.
Georges Kevin N’koudou
Spurs acquired his services with Clinton Njie going the other way in 2016. He quickly became a fan favourite before even making his Spurs debut as certain complexities surrounded his transfer.
Cameroonian forward Georges Kevin N’koudou with Turkish outfit Besiktas (source Transfermarkt)
N’koudou tipped to be the next big thing in North-London, performed below par going on loan to Burnley and AS Monaco whilst remaining a fringe player for the rest of his Tottenham Hotspur career.
His attempt to rejuvenate his career took him to the Turkish Super Ligue with Besiktas and now plying his trade with Damac FC in the Saudi Pro division.
Saido Berahino
The Burundi international polled 20 goals in all competitions during the 2014/15 season as West Brom ended up 13th in the English top-flight. Triggering interest from Mauricio Pochettino’s Tottenham.
Burundi forward Saido Berahino with West Bromwich Albion FC (Photo via The Guardian)
Amidst rejected bids by the West Bromwich Albion management, Berahino was caught in between transfer drama that summer. Reacting to these events, Berahino tweeted he’ll never play for the Magpies again.
A decision he admitted ultimately derailed his career. On moving to Stoke City 11 months later, he had already become a shadow of the player he was evolving too.
Wilfried Bony
Bony’s time at Manchester city was complicated by injuries, international inclinations, form concerns and injury concerns. City paid exceeses of £25 million to pry away the 2014 calendar year top scorer amongst premier league players from Swansea city.
Wilfried Bony representing Manchester City FC (Photo credit: mancity.com)
Unfortunate that his time at the Ethaid was a period they boasted the likes of Sergio Aguero, Edin Dzeko, Stevan Jovetic and the young Kelechi Iheanacho.
The Ivorian international never quite it off with Manuel Pellegrini’s side suffering unfortunate injuries and not taking in a full season under the belt for the Cityzens.
Nampalys Mendy
Fresh off being crowned English league champions, the Foxes paid a then club record fee of £13 million to sign Papy Mendy from OGC Nice.
Nampalys Mendy extending his Leicester city contract (Photo credit lcfc.com)
The Leicester city player of the year N’golo Kante rejected a new contract offer with the club meaning Claudio Ranieri had to reunite with his former player.
Dubbed “the next Kante”, the Senegalese international went off injured on his debut and continued to battle it with fitness all through his stay in England.
Isaac Success
Nigerian footballer, Isaac Success burst onto the scene with his explosive performances alongside Kelechi Iheanacho at the African U17 Championship in 2013.
Isaac Success celebration a goal scored for Watford FC (Photo credit
He sadly picked up an injury in the world cup opener later in UAE that year against Mexico which ruled him out of the tournament.
Tipped to be one of the most successful of Manu Garba’s Golden Eaglets, it’s been rather contrasting fortunes for the Nigerian international over his time at Granada, Watford and now Udinese.
Bebé
Tiago Manuel Dias Correia – popularly known as “Bebé”. Bebe went from scoring 40 goals in 6 matches at the homeless world cup for Portugal to signing for Manchester United in just under a year.
Former Manchester United forward Bebé with his Cape Verde teammates following his long range free kick at the 2023 AFCON (Source Goal.com)
For him, Sir Alex Ferguson broke his rule of signing players he hadn’t seen play, United’s backroom staff had faith in Bebe’s potential at Old Trafford, confirming he wouldn’t be loaned out and would join up with the first-team squad.
Now representing the Cape Verde national team, Bebé never hit the heights many expected him to take. Sir Alex Ferguson expected more from Bebe and remarked in his book. He said: “Bebe came with limitations but there was a talent there. He had fantastic feet.”
Also, “He struck the ball with venom, off either foot, with no drawback. He was not the complete player, but we were coaching him to be better. On the big pitch his concept of team play needed work. With feet like his, he was capable of scoring 20 goals a season.”
Sunday Mba
The home based player was Nigeria’s hero at the 2013 African cup of nations. Netting winners against Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso in the final.
Building on the laurels of that surreal tournament, he could only secure a move to French side CA Bastia were he spent the 2014/2015 season. Followed by a move to Turkish outfit Yeni Malatyaspor.
Sunday Mba representing the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the 2013 African cup of nations (Source Goal.com)
In 2019, expressed interest in wanting to return to competitive football after 2 years out of action. Many would have expected the former Super Eagles attacking midfielder to take big steps in his career following that AFCON triumph.
The tournament which as always showcases the very best of players the continent has to offer is undoubtedly the pinnacle of the round leather game in Africa.
Expectedly, big names such as Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, current African player of the year Victor Osimhen, newly wedded Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly from defending champions Senegal amongst others are expected to grace the occasion.
However, there is still a strong contingent of players sitting this edition out owing to unfortunate injuries, fitness woes, selection worries and issues at club level.
Here we highlight some of the notable absentees:
THOMAS TEYE PARTEY
Ghanaian footballer, Thomas Partey
The Black Stars midfielder continues to struggle with injuries which has plagued the better part of his time with Arsenal FC. He sits out this edition with a hamstring injury which has kept him out of action since October with his last minutes of football coming in the 4-nil defeat to the USMNT that month.
The Ghanaian national team gaffer, Chris Houghton did confirm that he most likely would have been a part of the squad featuring in this tourney.
BRYAN MBEUMO
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Seokyong Lee/Penta Press/Shutterstock (13423778ai)
Bryan Mbeumo of Cameroon during the friendly soccer match between South Korea and Cameroon at the Seoul World Cub Stadium in Seoul, South Korea, 27 September 2022.
South Korea v Cameroon, friendly soccer match, football, Seoul World Cub Stadium, Seoul, South Korea – 27 Sep 2022
The Bees midfielder made his debut for the national team in September 2022, and has been a mainstay of Rigobert Song’s team. He was taken off just 13 minutes after scoring in the 2-1 defeat to Brighton in early December and has been sidelined with an ankle injury ever since.
He is accompanied by Bayern Munich’s Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting as the big name attacking absentees in the Cameroonian squad.
WILFRED ONYINYE NDIDI
Ndidi will be a big miss for the Super Eagles as they look to challenge for glory since their last cup triumph in 2013. Initially named as part of the 5 senior midfielders in Jose Peseiro’s final squad.
The African giants will be without their defensive shield as he is out for the next 12 weeks as confirmed by Italian manager Enzo Maresca. Royal Antwerp’s Alhassan Yussuf has now replaced him in the squad.
ABDUL FATTAWU ISSAHAKU
The electric Ghanaian forward was sandwiched in between country and club drama as he chose to remain with the Foxes so as to satisfy the conditions spelt out in his loan from Portuguese outfit Sporting CP.
In a twisting turn of events, he was red carded in their championship fixture with Coventry city which will keep him out of action till at least the 3rd of February.
ABDOULAYE DOUCOURE
The Malian midfielder has rediscovered his brilliant form since Sean Dyche’s arrival. With their 10 points deduction throwing them amidst relegation waters, the midfielder chose to remain at Goodison Park to help the Tofees avoid relegation.
Cheick Doucoure also joins him on the absentee list as he continues recuperation from his anterior cruciate ligament injury.
VICTOR OKOH BONIFACE
Red-hot Leverkusen forward and 4 times Bundesliga Rookie of the season winner Boniface is another absentee for the Super Eagles as he picked up an injury in camp.
The 23-year-old expressed his disappointment on social media having also missed the U-20 edition of the tournament back in the days with injury. He’s since been replaced by OGC Nice’s Terem Moffi.
Boniface’s might be covered for by Nigeria’s heavy offensive arsenal but surely a big miss for Xabi Alonso’s side as they commence their title run-in with Bayern Munich.
ERIC BERTRAND BAILLY
The former Manchester United defender has had the past couple of months tough with employers Besiktas releasing a statement about his training and commitment levels before eventually terminating his contract.
A return to Villareal CF was not enough to secure him a spot in Jean-Louis Gasset’s defensive contingent. The nation’s backline marshalled by Willy Boly, Evan N’dicka, Ousmane Diomande, Odilon Kossonou amongst others should be more than enough protection.
ADEBAYO ADELEYE
The Israeli based shot-stopper didn’t get the nod as part of the goalkeeping unit in the Super Eagles final selections and will definitely have to wait for his first international tournament.
With questions continually raised about who stands in between the sticks for the Nigerian national team since Vincent Enyeama’s retirement, it’s left to see what the department featuring Francis Uzoho, Ojo Olorunleke and Stanley Nwabili can conjure.
It’s another edition of NRTC WEEKLY Roundup —in this week’s edition, we are focusing on five trending stories across the country.
As usual, the stories will cut across the top five beats in our media organization, NRTC [your one-stop hub for rich and reliable content covering entertainment, sports, politics, metro, and leading stories].
As we all know, a day can’t pass without trending stories and we have tracked many of them for you this week. Why not scroll down and treat yourself?
Politics: Political crisis in River State, entertainment: Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham, Mercy Aigbe, others light up December with movies, sport: Manchester United becomes first team to concealed fifteen goals in UCL— metro: The death of former Anambra Governor, Ezeife; business: Commodities price ahead of 25th are the stories to discuss this week NRTC WEEKLY.
Politics: Political crisis in River State
This week, River State seized the spotlight due to escalating political tensions following the fallout between Governor Sim Fubara and his key ally, Nyesom Wike.
Governor Sim Fubara. Source: Google.
The turmoil took a new twist as several lawmakers defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, expressing loyalty to the FCT Minister. Subsequently, despite this political shift, the governor proceeded to present a substantial N800 billion budget to the House of Assembly.
NRTC WEEKLY reported that only five lawmakers were present at the budget presentation, highlighting the impact of the crisis on the State House of Assembly, which has also faced structural challenges.
In the latest update, the Attorney-General of the state and some commissioners followed the lead of the defected lawmakers by submitting their resignation letters.
NRTC WEEKLY uncovered that the political upheaval has reverberated across the nation, sending shockwaves through the Nigerian populace.
Nigerians express worry about escalating tensions and potential violence, urging dialogue and restraint from all sides— as they called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene the same way he did to the Ondo State political brouhaha.
Others voice frustration with the perceived lack of transparency and accountability, demanding swift action to uphold the rule of law.
Entertainment: Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham, Mercy Aigbe, and others light up December with movies
This December has witnessed a captivating trend in the Nollywood industry, with several actresses and actors bringing a fresh allure to the cinema experience.
Notably, NRTC WEEKLY reports that Funke Akindele’s riveting “A Tribe Called Judah” showcases brothers engaging in a mall heist, while Mercy Aigbe’s compelling “Ada Omo Daddy” delves into the complexities of Ireti’s seemingly perfect life, shaken by the return of a past love. Toyin Abraham enchants audiences with “Malaika,” skillfully exploring love across diverse cultures.
These accomplished women in the industry are leaving an indelible mark, seamlessly transitioning from comedy to action, illuminating screens, and establishing themselves as influential producers and storytellers.
Reacting to the anticipated movies, Nigerians stated that the movies are not going to light up December alone but also ignite a fire in Nollywood, as they expressed their eagerness to grab popcorn to witness the blaze.
Sport: Manchester United becomes first team to conceed fifteen goals in UCL
It’s that time of the season once more, and Manchester United has inflicted heartbreak upon their devoted fans. NRTC WEEKLY reports that the dream of European glory for the Red Devils crumbled on Tuesday night, leaving their Champions League aspirations in ruins.
Manchester United. Source: NRTC Library.
The devastation struck as they suffered a 1-0 defeat at home to Bayern Munich, marking the culmination of a disastrous group stage campaign. NRTC WEEKLY has confirmed that this unexpected turn of events has left their loyal supporters in a profound state of despair and disbelief.
NRTC WEEKLY learned that as the Red Devils struggled, they conceded a staggering 15 goals in the group stage, the most of any Premier League team in UCL history.
Their fans attributed this to a leaky defense that proved to be their Achilles heel, frustrating their attacking efforts and ultimately condemning them to elimination.
The club returns to action on Sunday, as they will be hosted by Liverpool Football Club in Anfield.
Metro: The death of former Anambra Governor, Ezeife
Politicians and well meaning Nigerians have continued sending in condolences messages to the family of former Anambra State Governor, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife who died this week.
Former Anambra State Governor, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife. Source: NRTC Library.
Chief Ezeife died on Thursday at the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja, according to a statement by the family signed by Chief Rob Nwakaire Ezeife.
The statement added that more details about the deceased and the arrangements for his State Burial will be announced later.
Politicians in their sympathy identified Chief Ezeife as a significant figure in Nigerian history, particularly in the development of Anambra state, reflecting on his contributions and impact, with his passing undoubtedly leaving a void.
Business: Commodities price ahead of 25th
As the Christmas jingle bells ring in Nigeria’, the festive spirit is tinged with a bittersweet note with the annual price hike of commodities. This year, the increase seems particularly sharp, leaving many households juggling excitement and anxiety.
NRTC WEEKLY gathered that in bustling markets, the familiar banter of vendors and shoppers now carries a new undercurrent— pepper has reached where it has never reached before.
The hike is not limited to pepper alone as it cuts across other edible goods but amidst the grumbling, there’s also a quiet resilience because Nigerians are known for their adaptability and resourcefulness, NRTC WEEKLY confirmed.
Here, the cotton of this week’s episode of NRTC WEEKLY will drop. Join us for another edition next week as we take you around the trending stories in Nigeria.
Frank & Ronald de Boer (Photo Credit: Telegraph India)
There isn’t really a better place to start an article about football twins than those who have set the benchmark for every pair of twins thinking about lacing up each other’s boots.
Ronald was the older twin; Frank was the better one.
They played together at five club’s: Ajax, Barcelona, Rangers, Al-Rayyan and Al-Shamal.
Together at Ajax they won five Eredivisie titles and the Champions League; La Liga at Barcelona; while Ronald also won five trophies in Scotland. They have a combined 179 caps for Holland (112 of those belonging to Frank), and both scored 13 times for their country.
Rene & Willy van de Kerkhof (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
Staying in Holland, with more double Dutch, it’s the van de Kerkhof’s. A generation before, and PSV’s answer to the de Boer’s, the VDK’s were a major part of both PSV and Holland’s success during the 70s.
Rene appeared in the 1974 World Cup, which included being a substitute in the final (though Willy was also in the squad for the tournament) and is the more celebrated of the two.
However, it was arguably Willy who enjoyed the better career – with 63 caps for Holland compared to his brother’s 47; and over 500 games played for PSV. Together at PSV the pair won three Eredivisie titles.
One of these arrived in 1978, when they also won the Dutch Cup, the Uefa Cup, and both played in the 1978 World Cup final – which they were to lose to Argentina.
3. Ebbe & Peter Sand
Ebbe & Peter Sand (Photo Credit: NRTC Library)
It’s said that fans used to chant ‘you look like Ebbe Sand’ to his twin brother Peter. Sadly for Peter, while he may have shared Ebbe’s looks, he did not match him in terms of talent or success.
Ebbe would go on to play in World Cup’s; win the Danish Superliga on three occasions with Brondby; German Cups with Schalke; be top scorer of both the Superliga and Bundesliga (in different seasons, obviously); be twice crowned Danish Player of the Year and so on. Peter, erm, ‘notably’, played a few games for Barnsley in the 2001/2 season, in between journeying around Denmark’s clubs. I’d say at least he got the looks, but…
Another tale of one twin having considerably more success than the other syndrome (you could say he was twinning…but you probably won’t, sorry), this originates in Georgia.
Shota is something of a legend in his home country, being the national side all time leading goal scorer, while enjoying great success in his club career with the likes of Ajax and Rangers.
His brother, meanwhile, had a decent career that included 32 caps for Georgia, and relatively successful spells with hometown club Dinamo Tbilisi, Trabzonspor and NAC Breda. Unfortunately for him, he is probably best remembered for being Shota’s twin.
Yet another story of siblings born in 1973 (Arveladze twins were also born that year) and yet another fable of footballers whose fortunes were far different.
Gustavo, much like Archil Arveladze and Peter Sand, has been something of a journeyman, unable to move out of his brother’s shadow.
While he was on his travels around various Argentinian clubs (and a brief stint with Villarreal), his twin was becoming a bit of a Boca legend alongside Martin Palermo.
He made well over 200 appearances for the club, and helped them win four Copa Libatadores and a host of other trophies, being going on to repeat that success in the MLS with Columbus Crew. Daniel Passarella and some bloke named Diego Maradona (nope, me neither) were amongst those to contribute to his biography.
6. Halil & Hamit Altintop
Halil & Hamit Altintop (Photo Credit: Google Image)
Two Turkish twins still playing, it is Hamit who has overshadowed Halil, but the latter has enjoyed a successful career in his own right.
He has a decent scoring record, including 20 Bundesliga season in 2005/6, and 37 caps for the Turkish national team, while he has enjoyed spells at Kaiserslautern and Schalke. Hamit, meanwhile, has made 68 appearances for Turkey, and played for two of Europe’s biggest sides – Wattenscheid and Schalke – while also playing for Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, and winning the FIFA Puskas Award in 2010 for a stunning volley against Kazakhstan.
7. David & Philipp Degen
David & Philipp Degen (Photo Credit: Gety Images)
David and Philipp are arguably equal in terms of their careers.
Philipp has played for the bigger clubs, and will obviously be remembered fondly by Liverpool fans for his glorious spell there.
David, meanwhile, spent that time with Young Boys, where, if nothing else, he was playing regularly. Both have won three league titles with FC Basel, two of them together, while David has two Swiss Cups to Philipp’s one. Philipp has 32 caps for Switzerland to David’s 14; and both were selected in the Swiss squad for the 2006 World Cup – although only Philipp played.
8. Aleksei & Vasili Berezutsky
Aleksei & Vasili Berezutsky (Photo Credit: X)
For almost a decade now, Aleksei and Vasili have been playing together in defence – at both club and international level. Between them they have over 100 caps for Russian (Vasili has 60, Aleksei 45), and a collective 500+ appearances for CSKA Moscow. This has seen them finish third at Euro 2008, and win three Russian Premier League titles; six Russian Cups; four Russian Super Cups and a Uefa Cup.
9. Lars & Sven Bender
Lars & Sven Bender (Photo Credit: Google Images)
I started this list with the best, and I’m ending it with (possibly) the current best.
They certainly have the potential to be great, although the only stumbling block for the young midfielders is the sheer amount of talent available to Germany.
They played together at 1860 Munich, before Lars went off to Bayer Leverkusen, and Sven went to win the Bundesliga title with Borussia Dortmund. They’ve both been capped by the Nationalmannschaft, and are regular’s at their respective club sides. Individually, they are very good players. If Germany, or a club side, reunites them, then it could be a very special partnership, one that has the potential to last for the next decade.
10. Fabio & Rafael da Silva
Fabio & Rafael da Silva (Photo Credit: Google Images)
Two of the best young full back’s in the game just happen to be twins, and both just happen to be playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world.
The pair started out at Fluminese, but were spotted by Manchester United scouts before even playing a game for the Brazilian outfit.
There isn’t a great deal separating them; Rafael has played more games for United, but Fabio has been capped by Brazil. Indeed, the fact Fabio has a wedding ring (and a daughter) is seemingly the only way people can tell them apart. The majority of twins on this last have had rather different careers; these two may just have extremely similar ones.
In the realm of football, these 10 sets of twin players have etched a unique legacy. From the famed Nevilles to the dynamic Hazards, their genetic synergy goes beyond shared blood, shaping the beautiful game’s narrative. Through synchronized moves and shared triumphs, these brothers have proven that, in football, family bonds can create a legacy that transcends the pitch and leaves an indelible mark on the sport’s history.
Footballers showcase their love for the game on the field and express their personal style with striking back tattoos.
These intricate and artful designs add a unique dimension to their personas. Meet 10 footballers whose striking back tattoos add flair to their on-field brilliance and personal narratives.
On this list, News Round The Clock will be unravelling some footballer stars with incredible artworks designed on their backs.
Footballers with back tattoos (Photo Credit: NRTC Library)
See the list below:
1. Memphis Depay
Memphis Depay (Photo Credit: IG)
The Dutch striker has a tattoo of a lion on his back, which he says represents his strength and power.
2. Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Ibrahimovic (Photo Credit: Instagram)
The Swedish legend has a large tattoo on his back that depicts a dragon and a samurai warrior. He has said that the tattoo represents his duality as a person: he is both powerful and elegant.
3. Sergio Ramos
Sergio Ramos (Photo Credit: Pinterest)
The Spanish defender has a number of tattoos on his back, including a portrait of his wife, a lion, and a wolf. He has said that his tattoos represent his family and his values.
4. Arturo Vidal
Arturo Vidal (Photo Credit: Pinterest)
The Chilean midfielder has a back tattoo that depicts a religious scene, as well as the names of his children. He has said that his tattoo represents his faith and his family.
The Italian winger has a full-back tattoo of a leopard. He has not said what the tattoo means to him, but it is certainly eye-catching.
6. Andre Gray
Andre Gray (Photo Credit: Instagram)
The Jamaican striker has a back tattoo that features a collage of black icons, including Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, Nelson Mandela, and Bob Marley. He has said that the tattoo is a tribute to his heritage and his culture.
7. Leroy Sane
Leroy Sane (Photo Credit: Instagram)
The German winger has a back tattoo of a Japanese dragon. He has said that the tattoo represents his strength and determination.
8. Nicholas Otamendi
Photo Credit: Kieran McManus/BPI/REX
The Argentine defender has a back tattoo of a skull and a pair of wings. He has said that the tattoo represents his strength and his warrior spirit.
9. Roberto Firmino
Photo Credit: X
The Brazilian striker has a back tattoo that depicts a religious scene, as well as the names of his wife and daughter. He has said that his tattoo represents his faith and his family.
10. Ederson Moraes
Photo Credit: Pinterest
The Manchester City goalie has a lot of tattoos on his body, on his chest, his Christian faith is clear with ‘I belong to Jesus’ and a dove on his chest.
On his back there are inscriptions of a Christ like image on the cross, gloves holding a ball to show his profession, an eagle, a lion and big bird on his back.
Ederson is presumed as one of the best goalkeepers in the world and arguably the most expensive goalkeeper ever in world football.
And there you have it, a lineup of 10 footballers who not only shine on the pitch but also sport some stunning back tattoos.
From intricate designs to powerful symbols, these athletes demonstrate their individuality both in and out of the game.
It’s a beautiful blend of art and athleticism, showcasing the diverse passions and personalities within the world of football. Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll catch you in the next episode!
Located in the town of Virton, which is very close to the border of France and Luxembourg, Royal Excelsior have never played in the top flight of Belgian football. They were also relegated to the third tier of Belgian football this season.
Meanwhile, the club announced the change in ownership with the statement: “N’Golo Kanté’s will is to continue the structuring of the club in order to consolidate its foundations, stabilise the squad and, finally, reconnect with the tradition of building RE Virton, through its youth academy.
“The club aims to establish its local roots in order to become a driving force for football in Gaume and the province of Luxembourg. The transfer of power will be effective as of 1 July next. The intention of Kanté and his trusted group is to make Royal Excelsior Virton one of the flagships of Belgian football in the medium to long term.”
In a recent interview with Kiss FM in the United kingdom, the self-acclaimed Star Boy, Wizkid has stated that several of his friends who are footballers are mad at him for failing to show up at their football matches.
The Afrobeat musician also mentioned during the interview that he doesn’t watch football. Additionally, the singer-songwriter mentioned that his friends often frown at him when he fails to contribute to conversations pertaining to football.
The father of four said he plays as centre-forward.
He said, “I actually don’t watch football, to be honest. I have a lot of footballers as friends, they get mad at me when they are talking football, and I don’t know what they’re talking about.
“I don’t watch football but I play. I play centre-forward.”
Manchester City made light work of Arsenal, beating them 4-1 in a top-of-the-table clash to pile more pressure on a Gunners team that has soared for large parts of the season.
As the ever-reliable Kevin De Bruyne raced City to an early lead against Arsenal on Wednesday night, I was reminded of a joking profession by a football fan who stated, prior to the clash, that if City did not score up to four goals against the Gunners, then the referee must have been bribed.
Manchester City beat Arsenal 4-1 at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday (Image: Twitter)
It was a terrific start to the encounter at the Etihad Stadium. Lanky Norwegian striker Erling Braut Haaland controlled a long pass before setting up De Bruyne whose pace and body placement helped him release a great shot from just outside the box for the first goal.
It was the Belgian playmaker’s seventh goal against Arsenal.
Moments later, Haaland made a mess of the Arsenal defence and almost got City’s second but for Aaron Ramsdale’s strong right arm that denied the striker before the ball was cleared from the area.
Arsenal had drawn their previous three matches, greatly reducing the deficit between them and Pep Guardiola’s men. In fact, Arsenal have only won one out of their past five matches.
John Stones extended the lead just before the break from a De Bruyne assist. In the second half, De Bruyne scored again, meaning he contributed directly to all the first three goals.
Erling Haaland is the most prolific goal scorer in Europe this season (Image: @ManCity)
City dominant yet again
City dominated, having more possession and more attempts on goal. However, Arsenal got a goal of theirs late in the game.
Rob Holding converted substitute Leandro Trossard’s assist into the net. But there was still time for a record breaking moment.
Haaland scored the fourth to break the goals record for a 38-game Premier League season. The former Salzburg and Dortmund striker scored his 33rd goal of the league season to complete the massacre.
The previous record of 32 goals was held by Mohamed Salah.
Erling Haaland scores the fourth against Arsenal to set a new record for most goals in a 38-game #PremierLeague season (33 goals).
Manchester City’s win extends their dominance against the Emirates Stadium outfit. City have now won 12 successive Premier League games against Arsenal, winning by an aggregate score of 33-5.
Slim hope for Arsenal now
Arsenal fans all over the world held a firm belief of eventually landing the title for the first time since the 2003/2004 season. Their expectation during the long spell in which the club pitched at the climax of the league table this season is beginning to fade away.
The ray of hope still exists though but every Arsenal lover is now getting increasingly worried about the a City side already capitalizing on the north Londoners recent slip.
It will be more difficult for Mikel Arteta’s side to truly claim the title now. Although two points clear of the Cityzens, City have two outstanding matches to prosecute.
If the Manchester team win both, that means they automatically usurp Arsenal at the top of the table.
The duo of Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne have been fantastic. Kudos must also go to the likes of Ilkay Gundogan, Bernardo Silva, Phil Foden, Ruben Dias and others for their brilliance and tenacity (Image: @goal)
Praises and encomiums have been showered on the entire Arsenal team including the manager, and rightly so.
Great season for Arsenal already
Whether they win the title or not, it is undeniable that the Gunners have won many hearts with their beautiful, attacking football. It is a young set-up but everyone has stepped up all season when called upon.
There is great improvement in the Arsenal style of play and general team ability when compared to previous seasons and that’s highly commendable.
Players like Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard and Gabriel Martinelli have been particularly pinpointed for the team’s spirited displays this season.
The trio have been a major reason Arsenal are where they are – the top. With goals and assists galore, they are some of the best players in the Premier League, and Europe, this season.
Thomas Partey has been a rock-solid, incisive player who keeps controlling things from the middle of the park. The understanding between Gabriel and William Saliba at the back is telepathic. The likes of Ben White, Takehiru Tomiyasu and Oleksandr Zinchenko have been impressive as well.
Gabriel Jesus was on fire before his long term injury but Eddie Nketiah deputised adequately when the Brazilian forward was away. Vintage performances by Reiss Nelson who’s largely come off the bench makes the Arsenal story even more interesting.
Arsenal players getting tired?
However, some of these players are visibly fatigued. Club captain Ødegaard and Saka are looking like they cannot replicate their earlier performances any longer.
The theory still holds, in many quarters, that one of the most productive right wingers in Europe, Saka ghosts away in big matches. He’s been criticised for being ineffective when his team needs him the most.
Patrick Vieira described Saka and Martinelli as “brilliant” players who score “some really important goals” (Image: @Arsenalnewschan)
Ødegaard has led by example and is one of the finest midfielders in the Premier League this season but he needs rest too.
For the remainder of the season, it is left to be seen how Arteta will inspire his charges to restore the hope and belief triggered for large parts of the season.
Meanwhile, if both City and Arsenal win their remaining matches, City would claim the league title. Arsenal needs to win their matches and hope for some slip from City in order to conquer England again.
It’s another edition of NRTC WEEKLY Roundup — in this week’s edition, we are focusing on five trending stories across the country.
As usual, the stories will cut across the top five beats in our media organization, NRTC [your one-stop hub for rich and reliable content covering entertainment, sports, politics, business, and more].
As we all know, a day can’t pass without trending stories and we have tracked many of them for you this week. Why not scroll down and treat yourself?
Politics: Governorship and house of assembly elections, business: Naira deadline extended, sport: Champions League, metro: Corper involved in Lagos train and BRT clash buried, entertainment: Burna Boy to perform at UCL final are the stories NRTC WEEKLY will be discussing.
Politics: Governorship and house of assembly elections
Some weeks back on the NRTC WEEKLY episode, we discussed the presidential and national assembly elections where millions of Nigerians elected their new president as well as lawmakers. It’s yet another Saturday for Nigerians in 28b states out of the 36 states to determine their governors for the next four years.
Nigerians queuing to vote.
While the governorship election will only be held in 28 states because the governorship elections of eight states (Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi, Osun, and Ondo have been held off-season due to litigations and court judgments, the house of assembly will hold across the 36 states.
The 28 states are Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Enugu, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, Zamfara.
NRTC WEEKLY gathered that before the postponement of the election from March 11 to March 18, 2023, which is today, the main focus is on Lagos and Oyo states. In Lagos state, Babajide Sanwo-Olu was the talk of the town and in Oyo State, it’s Seyi Makinde.
In the just concluded presidential and national assembly elections, Labour Party won Lagos and some states as well as swept most of the representative seats which made Nigerians conclude that the party will pull the same score to defeat the incumbent Governor, Mr. Sanwo-Olu.
Mr. Seyi Makinde of Oyo, he’s the remaining contestant among the G-5 governors Nigerians are looking up to perform magic today because three of them lost their Senatorial elections to opposition parties.
“They’re now on the street begging, spending the money they’ve embezzled for people just to vote for them because if they fail to do this, they’ll lose.
“They are now barbers, hairstylists helping people to make the hair at their salon which you’ll never see unless the election is fast approaching.
“It’s high time for Nigerians to wise up because politicians are always desperate to get what they want from the masses.” Some Nigerians said.
Will Mr. Sanwo-Olu and Mr. Makinde win as citizens of Lagos and Oyo States go to the polls tomorrow? Let’s wait for the results to be announced by INEC returning officers.
Business: Naira deadline extended
For months, NRTC WEEKLY had reported on how Nigerians have been groaning as scarcity of the newly redesigned naira hit hard. Our findings for the past months show that many businesses are not working, and death records among others.
The new notes.
But, there’s excitement in the air this week as President Muhammadu Buhari and Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele bowed to pressure and ordered the old N200, N500, and N1000 naira notes to remain legal tender till December 31, 2023.
Nigerians couldn’t hold their excitement as the order was given, but upon their excitement, NRTC WEEKLY investigation revealed that both the old and new notes are minimal in circulation.
Most Nigerians who spoke with us lamented the stress they went through in getting the old notes in Banks, adding that some Banks are not dispensing and Point of Sales (PoS) Operators are still charging high.
“When they know the old notes will remain legal tender, they shouldn’t have stressed Nigerians. We waited months to hear from the CBN Governor to address Nigerians, only to come out after Buhari had denied him.
“Many have died from this scarcity of naira, many lost jobs, etc which was as a result of disobedient to a court order.”Nigerians say.
NRTC WEEKLY earlier reported that the Supreme Court judge ordered the old notes to remain legal tender but traders were adamant because Emefiele and Buhari didn’t talk.
Now that the old notes remain legal tender, Nigerians are finding it hard to see. “Where do we go from here?”
During the week, many stories have surrounded the ongoing UEFA Champions League, starting from overrated teams crashing out at the Round of 16, and breaking records among others.
Erling Haaland, a 22-year-old Manchester City player became the third player to score five times in a UEFA Champions League match rewriting record books since he announced himself in the competition with a first-half hat-trick on his debut.
Haaland.
Haaland has scored 33 goals in just 25 UEFA Champions League appearances, making the 19th list of all-time Champions League scorers.
Haaland and his club (Manchester City) will be facing the Bundesliga team, Bayern Munich in the quarterfinal of the competition.
The draw was announced yesterday by UEFA. According to the draw, Napoli will take on rival AC Milan, Inter-Milan will play Benfica while Real Madrid and Chelsea Chelsea will be meeting again.
The UCL quarterfinal draw.
Last UCL, it was a tough battle between the England and Spain clubs as they met again. In 2021/2022, Chelsea beat Real Madrid at home 3:2, and the La Liga club retaliated by beating Chelsea 3:1 to advance to the semifinal of the cup.
NRTC WEEKLY found out that immediately after the draw was announced, social media went agog as fans of the two clubs took to their social media pages to debate who’ll win.
To Chelsea fans, it’ll be revenge for the last meeting while Real Madrid fans are confident the blues will cry again.
Metro: Corper involved in Lagos train and BRT clash buried
Tears flowed freely as the remains of Oreoluwa Aina, a 28-year-old National Youth Corps member, who was involved in the Lagos train accident which occurred on Thursday, March 9 laid to rest.
Babajide-Sanwo-Olu-Lagos
Oreoluwa who was serving with the Curriculum Services Department of the Lagos State Ministry of Education in Alausa was among the six victims who were confirmed dead by the state government.
The late corps member’s burial was attended by a delegation of the state government led by the Commissioner for Education, Folasade Adefisayo was present at the burial.
Speaking after the burial, the deceased father, Femi Aina said his daughter was preparing for a master’s degree in the United Kingdom, UK, after completing her service year before the tragic incident.
The bereaved father added that the late corps member was dear to “everyone around including church, school and at work.
Reacting to the tragic incident, Nigerians who took to their social media handle condemned the BRT driver [alleged to have been responsible for the accident] for reckless driving.
“He should be prosecuted for killing innocent Nigerians — it’s very sad seeing a serving dead body being sent back home to her parents.
“Any other person involved should not go unpunished.” They said.
Entertainment: Burna Boy to perform at UCL final
The Internet went buzzing on Thursday, as UEFA Champions League announced that Ebunoluwa Ogulu, professionally known as Burna Boy will be performing at the competition final in Istanbul.
Burna Boy.
Reacting to the announcement, Burna Boy stated that he was elated to have been selected to perform at the Pepsi stage this year.
According to the Grammy award winner, music and football are the ultimate combinations.
Congratulatory him, netizens wish him success ahead, urging him to continue making the country proud.
“It can only be Odogwu. This is huge. Go and make Nigerians proud.”
The netizens added that it’ll be nice seeing him perform on the stage with Napoli striker, Victor Osimhen playing the final in Istanbul.
Here, the cotton of this week’s episode of NRTC WEEKLY will drop. Join us for another edition next week as we take you around the trending lists in Nigeria.
NRTC is your one-stop hub for rich and reliable content in Nigeria and beyond – for breaking stories, politics, entertainment, sports updates, business, education, lifestyle, metro news and more…
