Cristiano Ronaldo has elevated his longstanding partnership with luxury watchmakers Jacob & Co. by unveiling an exclusive limited-edition watch collection. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is making significant strides in the high-end fashion and luxury timepiece arena.

The Al Nassr captain collaborated with Jacob Arabo, the founder of Jacob & Co., to create a collection that beautifully blends athletic excellence with intricate watchmaking artistry.

Ronaldo shared the exciting news with his fans on X (formerly Twitter), posting photos of the stunning timepieces and stating, “I’ve always dreamed of having my own watch collection. The Jacob & Co. Flight of CR7 & the Heart of CR7 takes inspiration from some of my most iconic moments on the field. I hope you like them as much as I do.”

Among the standout pieces in this exclusive collection is the Twin Turbo Furious Baguette, renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship and staggering price tag of $1.3 million per piece. Ronaldo’s new venture not only showcases his passion for luxury but also cements his status as a global icon in both sports and fashion.

Former Manchester City star Benjamin Mendy has made shocking revelations regarding his time at the club, stating that “several” of his teammates, including the club captain, regularly attended his alcohol-fueled parties, where they “all had casual relations with women.” This bombshell confession comes amidst Mendy’s ongoing legal battle against Manchester City.

Mendy is currently embroiled in a tribunal against the club, seeking a staggering £11 million in unpaid wages after being sidelined while facing serious allegations of rape and sexual assault, for which he was later acquitted.

According to Mendy, he is not alone in his party lifestyle, as his teammates were actively involved. He stated, “Several Manchester City first-team players, including the club captain, were all present at the parties that I attended and hosted.” He went on to emphasize that the atmosphere at these gatherings was characterized by heavy drinking and casual relationships, adding, “We all drank alcohol. We all had casual relations with women. We all breached Covid-19 restrictions. This does not excuse my behaviour, but I feel that it is unfair for Manchester City to single me out in the way that they have.”

These revelations come as part of Mendy’s defense in the legal proceedings, highlighting a culture within the team that he argues should not have resulted in him facing the consequences alone.

In a thrilling encounter at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Super Eagles legend Ahmed Musa and Rabiu Ali played pivotal roles as Kano Pillars emerged victorious in a seven-goal spectacle against the Nigerian champions, Rangers. The match ended 4-3 in favor of the visitors, showcasing a tale of two halves, with Pillars dominating the first and Rangers mounting a remarkable comeback in the second.

First Half: Pillars’ Dominance

The Super Eagles skipper, Musa, alongside Rabiu Ali, both boasting a combined age of 75, was instrumental in Kano Pillars’ impressive first-half performance, contributing to their four goals. The scoring opened in the 15th minute when Musa’s cross led to a handball in the box, allowing Rabiu Ali to convert from the spot for his third goal of the season.

Zulkifilu Rabiu doubled Pillars’ lead in the 28th minute, finishing off a brilliant run and assist from Musa. The captain’s influence continued as he won a penalty in the 37th minute, which Ali again converted for his fourth of the season.

The first-half onslaught was completed in stoppage time when Musa showcased his brilliance, dribbling past four Rangers defenders before slotting home his third goal of the season, giving Pillars a commanding 4-0 lead at the break.

Second Half: Rangers’ Resurgence

Rangers came out fighting in the second half, determined to salvage something from the game. Isaac Saviour spearheaded the comeback, netting a brace within the first 11 minutes of the restart to halve the deficit. The hosts continued to press, and their efforts were rewarded in added time when Silas Nenrot scored to make it 4-3.

Despite the late surge from Rangers, Pillars managed to hold on for a thrilling victory, securing their first away win of the season in the Football League.

Key Performances

• Ahmed Musa (Kano Pillars): A masterclass performance with one goal and two assists.
• Rabiu Ali (Kano Pillars): Two goals from the penalty spot.
• Isaac Saviour (Rangers): Inspired the failed comeback with a second-half brace.

This victory is a significant boost for Kano Pillars’ campaign as it marks their first win on the road, while Rangers will rue their first-half defensive lapses despite showing great character in the second half.

Manchester United are reportedly keen on signing Bayern Munich left-back Alphonso Davies, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the season. This situation allows him to sign a pre-contract agreement with European clubs starting in January for a potential summer transfer.

Despite some fitness issues, Davies remains one of the world’s top left-backs, making the prospect of signing him without a transfer fee attractive to elite teams. According to Sky Sport Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, United have begun scouting the 23-year-old.

However, the Red Devils face stiff competition for his signature from clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester City, making their pursuit challenging. With current left-backs Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia struggling, United boss Erik ten Hag is eager to bolster his defense and views Davies as an ideal candidate.

Fortunately, no casualties have been reported following the earthquake in Turkey, and authorities have taken precautionary measures by closing schools in the affected areas. The tremor impacted various regions, including parts of Syria and several Turkish districts such as Diyarbakir and Elazig.

As for the Super Eagles players currently in Turkey, their safety remains a priority, and there are no concerns regarding their well-being. The football community continues to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that the players are safe and secure during this time.

In the wake of a recent earthquake in Turkey, Galatasaray has issued a statement expressing concern for those affected by the natural disaster. The earthquake, which registered a magnitude of 5.9, struck the Kale district of Malatya on Wednesday morning at 10:46 a.m. local time. While the tremor caused partial collapses of several structures, there have been no reports of injuries as of yet.

Nigerian Players in Turkey

The earthquake comes at a time when over 20 Nigerian footballers, including eight Super Eagles players, are playing in the Turkish Super League. Among them are notable players like Kenneth Omeruo and Bright Osayi, alongside newly joined Victor Osimhen at Galatasaray.

Galatasaray’s Response

Galatasaray’s statement on X emphasized their hope that the earthquake would not result in any loss of life or property, conveying their well-wishes to all citizens impacted by the tremor. As the situation unfolds, the football community will be watching closely to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected, including the Nigerian players in the league.

After a tumultuous period for the England national team, Thomas Tuchel has stepped in as the new manager, following Gareth Southgate’s departure after seven years in charge. Tuchel, known for his successes at clubs like Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the Three Lions.

Tuchel’s Decision to Join England

Tuchel’s decision to accept the England job comes on the heels of a notable moment in his career. Earlier this year, he turned down an opportunity with INEOS to manage Manchester United, which led to Erik ten Hag remaining in his position despite a disappointing season. During his first press conference, Tuchel elaborated on his motivations:

“I like the idea here at the FA… and the way their CEO Mark presented it. That was a decision for this job, and not against anyone else or any club.”

Commitment to England

While some have criticized Tuchel’s foreign nationality, he has expressed deep pride in representing England. He aims to instill passion and drive within the team:

“I’m proud to be here, I’m proud to represent England. I want to put the second star on this shirt.”

Tuchel emphasized his dedication to achieving success, particularly with the upcoming 2026 World Cup in sight:

“We will work hard for the biggest target in football, making our dream come true at the World Cup 2026.”

Fan Reception and Future Goals

Former England international Rio Ferdinand has praised Tuchel’s appointment, referring to him as a “serial winner,” which bodes well for the team’s aspirations. The new manager acknowledged the skepticism regarding his nationality but expressed his commitment to integrating into the English football culture and earning the supporters’ trust:

“I just have a German passport… but all of these supporters can feel my passion for the English Premier League, how I love to work here, how I love to live here… hopefully, I can convince them I am proud to be an England manager.”

With Tuchel at the helm, England looks forward to revitalizing its approach and aiming for significant achievements on the international stage.

Former Arsenal star Mesut Ozil recently added a twist to the long-standing debate over who is the superior player: Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. While many football fans and personalities have been drawn into this discussion, Ozil’s answer caught everyone off guard.

The Age-Old Debate

Messi and Ronaldo have dominated football for over a decade, consistently pushing each other to new heights. Their rivalry has sparked countless comparisons, with fans often debating their respective legacies and achievements. Given Ozil’s history, it would have seemed natural for him to side with either player.

Ozil’s Unique Response

However, during a recent press conference, when asked to choose between the two legends, Ozil surprised everyone by not naming either Messi or Ronaldo. Instead, he pointed to Arda Guler, a young Turkish international. This unexpected mention elicited laughter from those present, showcasing Ozil’s light-hearted approach to a question that often evokes serious debate.

Connection with Arda Guler

Ozil’s shout-out to Guler is particularly noteworthy, as the young player has previously cited Ozil as an inspiration. By returning the favor, Ozil highlights the importance of mentorship and influence within the sport, emphasizing that greatness can emerge from new talent rather than solely focusing on established legends.

In a football landscape dominated by the Messi-Ronaldo narrative, Ozil’s choice serves as a reminder that the sport is constantly evolving, with fresh talent waiting to make its mark.

Ademola Lookman, the Super Eagles ace, is determined to leave Atalanta and plans to make another attempt during the upcoming January transfer window. Despite a failed exit last summer, where he was linked to Paris Saint-Germain, Lookman remains a sought-after talent after an impressive season, culminating in a hat-trick during the Europa League final that earned him a Ballon d’Or nomination.

Previous Transfer Attempt

Lookman’s standout performance at Atalanta caught the attention of several top clubs, including PSG, which reached an agreement on personal terms with the Nigerian international. However, negotiations broke down as Atalanta’s management was unwilling to part with their prized asset unless a significant financial offer was made. Their reluctance to lose Lookman reflects his importance to the team, especially following his successful run in the Europa League.

Future Prospects

According to reports from German journalist Florian Plettenberg, Lookman is set to initiate another move away from Atalanta in January. The Italian club is reportedly open to negotiations but will only let him go if their valuation of €25-30 million is met. Lookman’s desire to leave the club could reshape his career trajectory, especially if he can secure a move to a top European side.

Manager’s Praise

Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has publicly praised Lookman’s abilities, even suggesting that he has the potential to reach the heights of football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. This endorsement not only highlights Lookman’s talent but also sets high expectations for his future performances.

As January approaches, the football world will be watching closely to see if Lookman can secure a move that matches his aspirations and career ambitions. His previous achievements, including a memorable performance in the Europa League, have undoubtedly set the stage for what could be a pivotal moment in his career.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the iconic Swedish footballer, left an indelible mark on the sport during his illustrious career, which spanned over two decades and included stints with some of Europe’s elite clubs, including Ajax, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain. His retirement in June 2023 marked the end of an era characterized by unmatched talent, fierce self-belief, and remarkable achievements.

Career Highlights

Ibrahimovic’s journey began in Malmo before he made his way up the ranks in European football, becoming a household name synonymous with excellence. His unique playing style, combined with his impressive height of 1.95 meters (6 feet 5 inches), allowed him to dominate on the field, scoring spectacular goals and contributing to his teams’ successes.

Financial Success

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Ibrahimovic’s net worth is estimated at around $190 million in 2024, making him the richest Swedish footballer of all time and the eighth richest footballer globally. This wealth is a culmination of lucrative contracts throughout his career, as well as savvy business ventures and endorsement deals.

On-Field Earnings

Ibrahimovic’s financial success is rooted in his high-paying contracts with various top clubs. His early earnings at Malmo were modest, but as his talent became evident, he moved to Ajax, earning around €1.5 million per year. This figure increased dramatically over the years, with reports indicating he earned €4.5 million at Juventus, and approximately €14 million ($16 million) at Paris Saint-Germain. His peak earnings came during his time with Manchester United, where he made around €13 million ($15 million) in his first year, and later $7.2 million (€7 million) at LA Galaxy.

Endorsements and Sponsorships

Beyond his football earnings, Ibrahimovic became a master of branding, securing endorsement deals with global giants like Nike, Volvo, Microsoft, Nivea Men, and Vitamin Well. His unique personality and global appeal have allowed him to build a powerful brand, further enhancing his financial portfolio. He also launched his own sportswear line, A-Z, demonstrating his business acumen.

A Testament to Sporting Excellence

Ibrahimovic is more than just a footballer; he embodies the fusion of sporting excellence and business savvy. His ability to leverage his fame into a global empire serves as an inspiration to many athletes looking to capitalize on their success beyond the field. As he enjoys his retirement, Zlatan Ibrahimovic remains a significant figure in both football and business, showcasing the potential for athletes to thrive in multiple arenas.

Brazilian star Vitor Roque has shared candid insights into his challenging time at Barcelona, detailing the personal struggles he and his family endured during his brief stint with the Catalan club.

Troubled Six Months at Barcelona

Roque joined Barcelona in the summer of 2023, with the initial plan to integrate him into the team for the 2024/25 preseason. However, due to a string of injuries within the squad, he was brought in earlier than anticipated. Despite the club’s expectations, the former Athletico Paranaense forward struggled to secure a place in the starting lineup, managing only two league starts.

At one point, Barcelona considered offloading him after receiving a lucrative offer from a Saudi Arabian club. However, Roque expressed his desire to remain in Spain and opted for a loan move to Real Betis instead.

Life at Real Betis

Now thriving at Real Betis, Roque conveyed his happiness in Andalusia, stating his desire to extend his stay beyond the current loan agreement. Reflecting on his time at Barcelona, he emphasized the emotional toll it took on him and his family:

“My family and I went through very difficult times, and now they smile with me. I didn’t smile for 6 or 7 months,” he said in a recent interview. “I’m very happy at Betis! I’m smiling again here. I live very well and I would like to keep on playing here.”

Communication Issues with Xavi

Roque has previously criticized Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez for a lack of communication regarding his role within the team. This sentiment was echoed in his recent remarks, as he highlighted the dissatisfaction that stemmed from his experience at the club.

Overall, Vitor Roque’s story serves as a reminder of the pressures athletes can face both on and off the field, as well as the importance of finding a supportive environment to thrive in.

Business mogul Alexis Ohanian is celebrating the success of the inaugural ATHLOS Track Meet, which has set a new standard in athletics by surpassing the viewership record previously held by Caitlyn Clark’s WNBA debut.

Event Overview

The ATHLOS Track Meet took place on September 26 at Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island in New York City. This unique event was groundbreaking as it featured only female athletes, including Olympic champions and world record holders, showcasing their talents in a competitive yet entertaining atmosphere.

Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit and husband to tennis legend Serena Williams, sponsored the meet, which offered the largest purse ever for a women-only competition in athletics history. Each of the six races—100m hurdles, 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, and 1500m—provided substantial financial incentives: winners received $60,000, second place earned $25,000, and third place took home $10,000, with smaller amounts for subsequent finishers.

A Historic Achievement

The event garnered an impressive 3 million views across various media platforms, including ESPN, DAZN, YouTube, and X, marking it as one of the highest viewership figures in track and field history. This achievement eclipsed the 2.1 million viewers of Caitlyn Clark’s WNBA debut for the Indiana Fever, which had previously set a record for the highest viewership on ESPN for a women’s basketball game.

For context, Clark’s debut drew significant attention, peaking at 2.3 million viewers during the game against the Connecticut Sun, which also highlighted the rising popularity of women’s sports.

Ohanian’s Response

Following the successful event, Ohanian took to X to announce the groundbreaking viewership milestone, thanking the athletes and his team for their hard work. He wrote:

“3 MILLION. That’s right—3 million viewers saw @Athlos around the world, across our streaming partners @ESPN, @dazngroup, @YouTube, & @X. Amazing job. Credit to these incredible athletes. To the team that put this together. To everybody for watching and supporting.”

Conclusion

The ATHLOS Track Meet not only celebrated female athleticism but also modernized the sport by blending competition with entertainment, featuring a performance by popular musician Megan Thee Stallion. The event has been widely praised by athletes and fans alike, signaling a bright future for women’s athletics and setting a new benchmark for viewership in the sport.

American star sprinter Kenny Bednarek has enjoyed a remarkable 2024 season, marked by his Olympic medal win in Paris and a Diamond League title victory against the pre-race favorite, Letsile Tebogo.

Career Highlights

Bednarek’s journey to success began at the US Olympic Trials, where he secured his place for the Paris Games by finishing second in both the 100m and 200m events behind Noah Lyles. Both athletes broke the long-standing meet record set by Michael Johnson in 1996, with Bednarek clocking a personal best of 19.59s in the 200m.

Despite having previously represented the United States at three World Championships and Olympics in the 200m, this season marked Bednarek’s debut on a global stage in the 100m, where he achieved a personal best of 9.87s in the final.

At the Paris Olympics, Bednarek faced a tough challenge in the 100m final, finishing in seventh place with a time of 9.88s. However, he rebounded spectacularly, securing the silver medal in the 200m with a strong run of 19.62s, finishing behind Tebogo, who set an African record of 19.45s.

Diamond League Victory

Bednarek capped off his season on a high note at the Diamond League final in Brussels, where he triumphed with a time of 19.67s, defeating Tebogo and showcasing his consistency and dominance in the event.

Coach’s Influence

The two-time Olympic silver medalist and Diamond League champion attributes much of his success to the guidance of his coach, Dennis Mitchell. In a pre-Olympics interview with CBS News, Bednarek revealed that embracing a more relaxed and fun approach to his training was crucial in achieving his goals this season.

Mitchell advised him to “stay calm, relax, have fun, and just go,” which Bednarek took to heart, stating, “I’ve been to a point that I try to do too much and failed, but this year I’m having a lot more fun, and all my races have been good and solid.”

Looking Ahead

Bednarek’s impressive performances in 2024 have solidified his status as one of the top three elite 200m sprinters in the world, alongside Tebogo and Lyles. As the athletics world anticipates the 2025 season, fans can look forward to exciting rivalries and spectacular showdowns among these three speed kings.