Brazilian journalist says it would be “complete madness” for a Man United player to stand in for Neymar

Manchester United Forward Matheus Cunha has become one of the faces of the club’s revival this season. Now, the Brazilian media is pushing for that situation to continue at the World Cup.

Brazilian journalist Fernando Callas used a column Earth There’s no argument to be made that Cunha should start for Brazil under Carlo Ancelotti. This will also apply if Neymar is left on the bench.

This stance says a lot about how Cunha’s first year at Old Trafford is viewed at home.

Callas said that the attacker reached Manchester United surrounded by suspicion. Despite his impressive performances at Wolves, there were concerns about whether he would be able to maintain that level. This was especially true A club that exerts far more pressure and scrutiny.

According to the journalist, Cunha has responded to those concerns strongly.

“No Brazilian attacking player has had a better season this year than Matheus Cunha”Kallas said.

He also wrote that forward became “One of the pillars of United’s rebirth, along with compatriot Casemiro” After helping the club achieve third place. This was after fears of relegation the previous season.

The article also highlights Cunha’s influence in decisive matches. Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Liverpool and Aston Villa are all referred to as games where the Brazilian scored important goals or contributions.

Kallas pointed to the numbers as further evidence. Cunha scored 10 league goals this season after scoring 15 goals the previous campaign with Wolves. None of them were penalties.

For a player operating between midfield and attack, those figures are seen as typical Premier League production in Brazil. And this has happened consistently all season.

The Neymar debate takes center stage

Fernando Callas made the Neymar debate central to this article.

“This column is about Matheus Cunha, with many suggesting he should be benched to make room for Neymar.” He has written.

Then the journalist strongly supported ‘Selfless Manchester United player’ To retain his place in Brazil’s starting team.

“Regardless of who is behind him, Cunha was one of the best players of the season in the best league in the world. The idea of ​​not having him in Brazil’s starting team seems like complete madness to me.”

Of course, Neymar’s current physical condition has also been criticized. Callas wrote that there are “numerous inconsistencies” surrounding the veteran’s call-up and suggested he may have already been re-injured.

Why does Cunha fit into Ancelotti’s Brazil?

Fernando Callas also explained why he thinks Cunha is a good fit for Ancelotti’s tactical ideas.

The columnist praised the Manchester United player’s ability to carry the ball under pressure and carry the team forward in difficult moments.

“That’s an ant-man’s buffoon. Engine and escape valve,” Kailas wrote. “Basically, when the team is under pressure, you give the ball to Cunha and he will do everything possible to take it 10 to 15 meters closer to the box.”

The comparison then became even more interesting from a Premier League perspective.

Callas argued that Cunha could play a role similar to that performed by Jude Bellingham for Ancelotti at Real Madrid. He also claimed that the Brazilian movement could create a ‘perfect combination’ with Vinicius Junior.

Cunha arrived at Old Trafford with doubts over his fee and his potential at one of the biggest clubs in the world.

After one season, respected voices in Brazil are openly campaigning for him to be named ahead of Neymar for the national team.

#Brazilian #journalist #complete #madness #Man #United #player #stand #Neymar

“It would be complete madness” – agent talks about transfer to Newcastle United

newcastle united FC Porto have been linked with interest in winger Oscar Pietuszewski in recent weeks, but the player’s camp now appear keen to calm expectations surrounding a summer transfer.

The 17-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable start to life in Portugal since arriving from Jagiellonia in January. Pietuszewski already has 15 appearances, three goals and two assists for Porto, helping the club win the Portuguese title before he was even 18 years old.

Those performances immediately put him on the radar of several European clubs. Newcastle United were recently nominated Between the sides monitoring the winger, with manchester united, liverpool, manchester city And chelsea.

However, according to the player’s agent, an immediate move away from Porto would not make sense.

“Complete madness”

As relayed to ball In Portugal, agent Mariusz Piekarski insisted that Pietuszewski planned to stay at Porto next season despite the increased attention.

“I think he will stay at Porto for another season,” Piekarski said. “There remains a lot of interest, but we have no plans to change clubs. That would be complete madness.”

The agent made it clear that the current priority is development rather than a quick transfer to one of the richest clubs in Europe.

“Oscar feels very good in Porto. He is happy and gaining experience.” he explained.

“Maybe in a year, after another season in the Portuguese league and playing in the UEFA Champions League, there will be a re-evaluation and he can think about what to do next.”

Piekarski also stressed that there is no specific time frame for the departure.

“Still, it doesn’t necessarily mean that he’ll have to go in a year. Maybe in two years.”

Porto is seen as the ideal next step

Reports in Portugal have already stated that the club are preparing a new contract for Oscar Pietuszewski when he turns 18 on May 20. The deal is expected to extend his stay until 2031 and could also include an increase to his current €60m (£52m) release clause.

From the player’s camp, there seems to be complete agreement with that viewpoint.

Pietuszewski has quickly become a key player under manager Francesco Farioli, his aggressive dribbling and direct style making him one of the breakout stories in Portugal during the second half of the season.

The winger puts up strong attacking numbers on average, while also showing impressive intensity on the ball. That combination has helped to increase interest from clubs like Newcastle.

School exams after graduation ceremony

Piekarski also revealed an unusual detail from the player’s recent program after Porto secured the league title.

The young player went back to Poland immediately after the ceremony to complete his secondary school exams.

“There were fears about how school, final exams and the Oscars would combine everything with FC Porto, but everything worked out well,” The agent said.

“They played at 9:30 pm on a Sunday and had final exams in the morning. I booked a jet to Modlin airport and had a driver waiting there so he could take a quick shower and go straight to the exam.”

At the moment, despite interest from Newcastle and increasing attention from across Europe, both Porto and the player’s representatives are convinced that staying where he is is the next wise move.

#complete #madness #agent #talks #transfer #Newcastle #United

‘Can’t use him anymore’ – Southampton loan turns into complete disaster

We’ve all seen the disastrous debt situation over the last few years and Damien Downes’ move southampton HSV Hamburg falls into that category.

BILD report on the Southampton striker today And this is not good. The newspaper reports that the striker’s criticism has become so bad that his manager ‘can no longer use him’.

bundesliga clash

After a poor few months at Southampton the 21-year-old moved to Hamburg on loan in the January transfer window.

He joined Southampton last summer for €8m But he managed only one assist in 14 games for the Saints before his departure.

It was expected that the kick would be held in Hamburg, but this did not happen. He has failed to score or assist in nine games so far, and has only been in charge for 506 minutes in total.

BILD reports that criticism has been abundant. In fact, the Southampton loanee ‘has faced such intense criticism’ that it will now be ‘extremely difficult’ for the manager to field him. This is despite the existing issues facing the German side.

southampton return

So, all indications are that Damien Downs is going to suffer a disappointing end to the season. His performance in Hamburg has turned his fans completely against him.

This would certainly mean he would move back to Southampton in the summer as well. Hamburg will certainly not consider any permanent agreement.

But then what? “Southampton have progressed a lot without him. Now they have Syl Larin to score the goals and revive his career at St Mary’s. This would certainly close the door for a Downes comeback.

But he cost €8 million last summer and to say the least, getting him back this summer will be a tough task. This loan in Germany was going to bring him back on track. Instead, it appears he’s not even on track anymore, so much so that even his manager won’t come to his side in the middle of a crisis.

#anymore #Southampton #loan #turns #complete #disaster

Arsenal asked to complete €60m valuation for defender – Gunners keen to make serious move

Andrea Cambiaso
Andrea Cambiaso of Italy (Juventus) is seen during the UEFA Nations League 2024 match between Italy and Belgium at the Olimpico Stadium in Rome, Italy on October 10, 2023.

Andrea Cambiaso has been linked with a move before Manchester City And armory Now in the mix for Defender.

sports witness The saga involving the civilians was covered extensively last year. Pep Guardiola’s side looked serious and made early contact, but Juve remained highly rated.

Since then, things have been up and down. He struggled earlier in the campaign, but improved under Luciano Spalletti and has been a key player in recent weeks.

Arsenal’s interest in the defender is growing, with the Gunners appearing keen on a move.

The valuation is now clear

alljuve The report states that Arsenal’s move is in the early stages, with the outlet seemingly indicating an initial contact. It has been hinted that things could move forward, even if Juve are not keen to make a sale.

Spalletti considers Cambiasso an important part of his squad, but the Old Lady are currently valued at €60m. This would give them massive capital gains and enough money to sign a replacement.

The sale could be crucial for the Bianconeri, especially if they fail to qualify for the Champions League. They are currently fourth in the table but were fifth last week.

So far, Arsenal have not been able to exceed €40m, but they will have to move to have the chance to sign him.

Our opinion: Deal would make sense for the Gunners

Cambiasso can fill multiple positions due to his versatility. He has played wide on both sides before, and has performed equally well at full-back. At Bologna and Genoa, he also played centrally.

This makes him a useful player who adds a lot of value to any team. Maybe that’s why Manchester City wanted him.

The current price is probably a bit high, given the circumstances. This was very low last summer and that is why Arsenal should demand a discount.

#Arsenal #asked #complete #60m #valuation #defender #Gunners #keen #move

Chelsea commit €85 million to complete signing – Enzo’s replacement in line

Chelsea target Victor Froholdt
Chelsea target Victor Froholdt

Chelsea are heading into a summer where their midfield plans are already being shaped by uncertainty around Enzo Fernandez, and the situation is starting to affect goals across Europe.

The Argentine remains a central figure at Stamford Bridge in terms of minutes and responsibility. However, there are increasing signs of instability around him.

Reports in recent weeks have revealed that Enzo has hinted wish to live in madrid At some point in his career. This has naturally attracted attention, but also created tension internally.

There have been suggestions that his relationship with Liam Rosenior has cooled, particularly following the manager’s reaction. At the same time, the midfielder is seen to be undergoing a greater personal decline in positive influence around the club.

As we covered earlierPeace seems to be restored, but Enzo creates a lot of smoke. And of course none of this signals an immediate exit, but it does explain why Chelsea are preparing for different outcomes.

That preparation has now led him to Victor Frohold.

The FC Porto midfielder has quickly gone from being a smart signing to one of the most talked-about young players in Europe.

At the age of 20, he has become an important part of Francesco Farioli’s system and is one of the most used players in the team. He appeared in 44 of Porto’s 46 matches, accumulating 3,466 minutes. Only Diogo Costa and Jan Bednarek have played more.

There has also been a jump in his output. Fröholdt has seven goals and seven assists this season, already surpassing his previous best numbers at FC Copenhagen. He’s also on track to surpass his career highs in minutes and games played, underscoring how quickly his role has grown.

Chelsea’s interest and increasing competition

The rise of Victor Froholdt did not go unnoticed. in portugal, morning mail The report comes as Chelsea are one of a number of clubs keeping an eye on him, with their interest directly linked to the uncertainty surrounding Enzo Fernandez’s future.

The important thing is that this is not a club race. The Portuguese newspaper says teams from England, Spain, Italy and Germany are pursuing the midfielder. That level of competition strengthens Porto’s position.

Chelsea scouts have already had the chance to take a closer look at Froholdt. The Blues were among the clubs that had representatives in the stands During Porto’s recent Europa League clash against Nottingham Forest in England. That match provided them another chance to assess against stronger opposition.

His profile is in line with Chelsea’s expectations. Froholdt is a high-intensity midfielder who can operate as both a number six and number eight. That tactical flexibility makes him a natural choice in an ever-evolving team.

The club have repeatedly made moves into the Portuguese market in recent years, including deals for Giovanny Quenda and Dario Essugo, which together brought around £63m (€73m) to Sporting. Fröholdt is now firmly on that path.

Porto sets values ​​and long-term vision

Victor Frohold is not being put in line for a concessional transfer. Correio da Manha has made it clear that Porto will only consider offers close to his £73m (€85m) release clause.

The club’s stance goes beyond simple resistance. There is speculation internally that the freehold could become the biggest sale in Porto’s history.

The current benchmark sits around €60m from deals involving players like Otavio and Nico Gonzalez. Frohold is seen as someone who could surpass that figure.

Porto’s priority is to keep him for at least one more season. However, they are also aware of the increasing market pressure.

He was heavily linked with a move to Tottenham last year, but talks were not concrete and at one point it was even said the player “Aiming higher” than Spurs.. This could be a good opportunity.

The midfielder joined from FC Copenhagen for £17.2m (€20m), plus an additional £1.7m (€2m). The Danish club also secured 10% of any future profits, which adds another layer to any negotiations.

what happens next

Victor Froholdt’s situation now largely depends on how Chelsea’s midfield develops in the coming months.

If Enzo Fernandez remains in place and regains stability, the club may delay any major moves. If the current uncertainty develops further, freehold is already positioned as a leading option.

Porto are holding firm. With interest growing across Europe and players raising their standards, any club will need to come close to the full £73m (€85m) to proceed.

For Chelsea, it’s about being prepared for whatever comes next.

#Chelsea #commit #million #complete #signing #Enzos #replacement #line

Aston Villa and West Ham have been chasing the free agent ‘for months’ – Villa in good position to complete transfer

oscar mingueza

Aston Villa And west ham united Celta Vigo are in the transfer picture to sign Oscar Mingueza.

The right-back joined the La Liga team from Barcelona in 2022 and has been a regular since then.

His contract situation has already attracted the attention of Aston Villa, West Ham and several other clubs.

He has less than three months left on his contract and the Spanish club have offered an extension.

Last week, Sports Witness Covered claims from Spain Celta Vigo have given up on keeping the 27-year-old.

This is because he changed agents and is now managed by British agency Unique Sports Group. There have been no discussions with their new representatives on contract renewal.

Transfer boost for Aston Villa and West Ham

Sports stadium Cover the latest information on Oscar Mingueza’s future and name Unai Emery’s side and the Hammers.

Celta Vigo has already made renovation proposals worth a total of €4m per year.

Both he and his family are comfortable with their life in Vigo and the club hope this will convince them to extend their stay.

Their sporting director, Marco Garces, told DAZN that the former Barça man has to make a final decision on his future.

La Liga teams will not be able to match what other Premier League clubs have to offer.

“The situation is in his hands. All he knows is that he has an offer from us, and we hope he will take a decision. He has not responded yet.” He said.

Estadio then gives the latest on his suitors and immediately mentions Aston Villa and West Ham United. The Premier League duo, along with Marseille, have been knocking on their door for ‘months’.

Juventus, who failed to sign him in the winter market, are still interested. As well as Serie A teams, Como and Newcastle United are also in the mix.

The Estadio are now insisting Mingueza’s future lies in England, where their new representatives have a firm grip.

Our opinion: Aston Villa may have the edge over West Ham

The Villans are now fourth in the table and five points ahead of fifth-placed Liverpool. On the other hand, Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are in 18th place, one point behind 17th-placed Tottenham Hotspur.

Aston Villa are favorites to qualify for the Champions League while the London club is struggling to avoid relegation. This, along with the presence of Unai Emery, should give the former an edge over West Ham United.

transfer market Oscar Mingueza, now valued at €18 million, can also operate as a left-back.


#Aston #Villa #West #Ham #chasing #free #agent #months #Villa #good #position #complete #transfer

‘Complete disaster’ – The Nottingham Forest defender’s gamble already looks wrong as summer exit looms

nottingham forest

Nottingham Forest’s January signing of Luca Netz is already emerging as one of the quieter misfires of the window, The situation is now attracting renewed attention in Germany.

Nottingham Forest bet on Luka Netz in January

German outlet Gladbach Live Report the former Borussia Monchengladbach defender’s move to Nottingham Forest ‘has not come to fruition so far’.

The 22-year-old was signed for €2.5m on a contract running until 2030, which was seen as a long-term investment with significant returns.

Gladbach also secured a sell clause, expecting future returns if its value increased.

This step was also celebratedNetz fulfilled his childhood dream after turning down Manchester City at the age of just 15.

Limited minutes and the new manager’s priorities

Instead, his immediate future at the club already looks uncertain.

Netz has featured only twice, both brief appearances, as Nottingham Forest struggle to avoid relegation.

premier league 2025/26
appearances2
will start0
total minutes24
minutes per game48
Target4

New coach Vitor Pereira has so far shown little interest in using his experience, instead relying on it in the fight for survival.

For a player who moved to England to accelerate his development, it has been a tough start. Gladbach live move on, calling Nottingham Forest move a ‘complete disaster’.

summer uncertainty

Now the attention is turning towards summer. If Nottingham Forest loses in the Championship, the team is being restructured.

Netz, with minimal minutes and a long contract, would become an obvious candidate for a quick exit.

Even if he remains at Nottingham Forest, GladbachLive believe a summer move is already being discussed if his situation does not change.

gladbach taking a closer look

Borussia Monchengladbach in Germany are monitoring the situation closely. His sell-on clause means that any future sale, even a reduced one, sends the money back to the foals.

Netz is currently valued at €6m by TransfermarktHowever any final fee may be quite low due to his lack of playing time. Either way, the German side may again have the advantage.

At this point, Nottingham Forest’s gamble has not paid off. They’ve got a deal in place for a young full-back with long-term potential, but so far, he’s been exploring on the sidelines.

Unless something changes rapidly, Netz’s Premier League adventure could be over before it really begins, with Gladbach potentially benefiting from the next chapter.


#Complete #disaster #Nottingham #Forest #defenders #gamble #wrong #summer #exit #looms

Refund complete! Marner, Golden Knights rally to snap skid

The Vegas Golden Knights have a problem: They don’t play a full 60 minutes.

Throughout the season, they have struggled to get off to timely starts and only find their game when falling behind by several goals. However, they have managed to score points from most of those attempts. In the 62 games played this season, the Golden Knights have entered the third period trailing by at least one goal in exactly half of them. His record in those 31 games is 6-16-9.

These Golden Knights are nothing if not determined. This cardiac-return method is not a recipe for success; However, it is thoroughly entertaining.

History repeated itself on Wednesday when the Golden Knights played the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena. They scored the first goal, but entered the second round trailing by two goals. After an ineffective second period, they were able to tie the game in the third period. And in overtime, Tomas Hertl scored on the power play to complete the comeback, snapping a three-game losing streak, and giving his team a 4–3 victory.

For the first time in three games, the Golden Knights scored first Wednesday, striking just 1:50 after puck drop. Pavel Dorofeyev forced a turnover behind the Red Wings’ net, and Mitch Marner found Reilly Smith in the left circle for a short-side snipe.

His strong start could not last long. The Golden Knights did not manage another shot on goal for the next 8:24 of the game, and recorded only seven shots in the first period. The Red Wings tested Adin Hill 11 times and created seven scoring chances.

The Red Wings got the equalizing goal at 5:58 of the first period. Tomas Hertl lost his defensive assignment, and Emmitt Feeney fired a shot from just above the right circle. Marco Casper provided the screen, and Feeney’s shot sailed home.

The Red Wings took the lead 15:15 of the first. Brayden Bowman picked off Andrew Copp’s pocket to deny him a chance to score, but Simon Edvinsson became active from the point and got to the puck first. Edwinsson stepped into the spot unopposed and defeated Adin Hill with a sneaky wristlock.

The Red Wings increased their lead just 59 seconds later. The Golden Knights tried to break the puck, but Axel Sandin-Pellica forced a turnover at center ice. Lucas Raymond took it the other way, drove into the zone, and found Alex DeBrincat all alone in the high slot. DeBrincat fired a shot from distance that hit Adin Hill at wide receiver.

The Golden Knights fared better in the second period – but not by much. They missed their power play opportunities, but killed the two minor penalties they took. Despite spending a good portion of the period on the penalty kill, they managed to defeat the Red Wings 8–6.

If you looked at the box score, you would assume that the Golden Knights were dominant in the third period; You would be wrong. They defeated the Red Wings 8–7, but gave up 12 scoring chances and left Adin Hill out to dry on multiple occasions. However, Hill was up to the task and made one big save after another.

The Golden Knights got within one at 11:37 of the third. Rasmus Andersson tipped Noah Hanifin’s blast from the point, and the puck found Ivan Barbashev next to the crease. Barbashev scored his second goal in a row and his seventh in ten games.

Barbashev’s goal gave the Golden Knights some life and they finally started applying offensive pressure. They equalized with 3:24 remaining in regulation.

Mitch Marner forced a turnover, and Tomas Hertl got the loose puck first down. Hertl worked hard for Shea Theodore, who fired a wrist shot. Simon Edvinsson blocked Theodore’s shot; Hertl moved the puck behind the net and delivered a centering pass to Marner across the crease. Hertl’s pass was found and Marner shot over Cam Talbot.

In overtime, the Golden Knights were unquestionably the better team. They created three high-danger scoring chances, one of which led to a penalty for Noah Hanifin.

The Golden Knights completed the comeback just 19 seconds into the ensuing power play. Mitch Marner found Tomas Hertl next to the crease and Hertl headed in to give his team a 4–3 victory.

This Golden Knights team is far from perfect. They are inconsistent, their defensive positioning is prone to be poor, and they struggle to score in a way that such a talented team shouldn’t. And yet, despite all their shortcomings, they have a 29-19-14 record and lead the Pacific Division with 72 points.

Just imagine where they could end up if they could reach their full potential.

Avatar
Hannah Kirkel is a beat writer who covers the Vegas Golden Knights for Vegas Hockey Now on SportsNote. She studied more about Hannah Kirkel

#Refund #complete #Marner #Golden #Knights #rally #snap #skid

Complete schedule, TV information and start times for the Cup & O’Reilly Auto Parts Series

Where is NASCAR racing this weekend? We head into the fourth points race of the season and the second weekend of stock car racing in March. NASCAR’s schedule takes us to Phoenix Raceway this weekend, with the top two series set to hit the track Friday through Sunday for practice, qualifying and two races.

Here is this weekend’s NASCAR schedule for the Cup Series and O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Worth noting that there are no Truck Series races this weekend. Note, all times listed are Eastern.

RELATED: NASCAR Power Rankings Today, 10 Best NASCAR Drivers Before Phoenix

NASCAR Weekend Schedule: Phoenix Raceway

Friday, March 6

  • 7:00 PM ET – O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Practice – The CW App
  • 8:05 PM ET – O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Qualifying – The CW App

RELATED: NASCAR explains situation ahead of Phoenix

Saturday, March 7

  • 12:00 PM ET – Cup Series Practice – Amazon Prime Video
  • 1:10 PM ET – Cup Series Qualifying – Amazon Prime Video
  • 7:30 PM ET – GOVX 200 (OARS Race) – The CW Network

READ MORE: NASCAR race winners, losers at COTA

Sunday, March 8

  • 3:30 PM ET – Straight Talk Wireless 500 (Cup Series race) – Fox Sports 1

NASCAR Cup Series schedule this weekend

Here is the complete NASCAR weekend schedule for the Cup Series at Phoenix Raceway.

eventsdatetime (ET)how to see
PracticeSaturday12:00 PMamazon prime video
AbilitySaturday1:10 pmamazon prime video
racesunday3:30 pmFox Sports 1, Max

NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Schedule This Weekend

Here is the complete NASCAR O’Reilly Series schedule for Phoenix this weekend.

eventsdatetime (ET)how to see
PracticeFriday7:00 pmcw app
AbilityFriday8:00 pmcw app
raceSaturday7:30 pmcw network

RExcited: NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series results from COTA

Avatar
Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

#Complete #schedule #information #start #times #Cup #OReilly #Auto #Parts #Series

“That’s why I quit” – coach on ‘complete chaos’ at Sunderland

Former Sunderland coach Mark McCormick has explained why he left the club just one year into his three-year contract at the Stadium of Light.

Kicker today had an interview with the former Sunderland coach. He explains why he left North East prematurely.

McCormick served as Head of Coach Development at Sunderland between 2017 and 2018. He was appointed in September that year to lead the development of coaches within the Black Cats academy service.

He joined Australian club Northern Tigers FC, where he was first team manager. However, his time at Sunderland would only last for a year.

Instead, he found himself in the midst of one of the most turbulent periods in Sunderland’s history. That season saw a high turnover of first-team managers, including Simon Grayson and Chris Coleman, which ultimately led to their relegation to League One.

All of this was detailed in full during the first season of the Netflix drama Sunderland ‘Til I Die. This sometimes featured the Academy’s work at the Stadium of Light, although McCormick was not personally involved.

His departure was a piece of chaos but ultimately made sense to him. Since his exit, he has established a significant coaching career in Austria, progressing from youth development to several high-level support management roles in the Austrian Bundesliga and Second League.

Why was Sunderland a mixed bag?

McCormick is now the assistant manager at SKN St. Pölten, where he earned his UEFA Pro License at the end of November 2025.

That was the main focus of his interview with Kicker, but he still couldn’t resist asking about Sunderland.

“The work at Sunderland was fantastic,” He said.

“The whole city is behind this working-class club. In the Championship, we would usually have 40,000 spectators. But it was complete chaos, as anyone can see in the documentary Sunderland ‘Till I Die.

“That’s why I left after a year, even though I had a three-year contract. And I also wanted to get back on the field myself and not just watch other people all the time. Thankfully, Cem (Sekarlioglu) took me back to Austria Vienna.”

#quit #coach #complete #chaos #Sunderland

Tennis Rules: A Complete Guide to Scoring and Gameplay for Beginners


Tennis Rules: A Complete Guide to Scoring and Gameplay for Beginners

Tennis is one of the most popular individual sports in India, thanks to the legacy of legends like Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi, and Sania Mirza. Whether you are heading to a local club in Mumbai or a public court in Delhi, understanding the tennis rules and the unique tennis scores system is the first step toward enjoying the game.

The Basics: Equipment and Court

Tennis is played on a rectangular court, which can be grass, clay, or hard court (the most common in India). The game is played as ‘Singles’ (one-on-one) or ‘Doubles’ (two-on-two). To start, you need a racket and a yellow felt-covered ball. The objective is simple: hit the ball over the net and into the opponent’s court in a way that they cannot return it.

Understanding Tennis Scores: The 15, 30, 40 System

The most confusing part for beginners is often the scoring. Unlike cricket or football, tennis uses a specific set of terms:

  • 0 Points: Referred to as “Love”.
  • 1st Point: 15
  • 2nd Point: 30
  • 3rd Point: 40
  • 4th Point: Game (End of the game)

If both players reach 40-40, it is called a Deuce. From here, a player must win two consecutive points to win the game. The first point won after deuce is called “Advantage.” If that player wins the next point, they win the game. If they lose it, the score returns to Deuce.

The Structure: Game, Set, and Match

To win a match, you need to navigate through three layers of scoring:

  1. Games: Usually, you need to win 6 games to win a set, but you must lead by at least 2 games (e.g., 6-4).
  2. Sets: Most matches are “Best of Three” sets. In Grand Slams, men’s matches are “Best of Five.”
  3. Tie-break: If the game score reaches 6-6 in a set, a tie-break is played to decide the winner of that set. In a tie-break, points are counted numerically (1, 2, 3…).

Basic Gameplay Rules

Every point starts with a Serve. The server must stand behind the baseline and hit the ball into the diagonal service box on the opponent’s side. You get two chances (First Serve and Second Serve). If both hit the net or land outside, it’s a “Double Fault,” and your opponent gets the point.

During a rally, the ball must stay within the boundary lines. If the ball touches the line, it is considered “In.” In singles, you use the inner side-lines; in doubles, the court “widens” to the outer lines (the alleys).

Conclusion

While the tennis rules might seem complex at first glance—especially the “Love” and “Deuce” terminology—they become second nature once you hit the court. Tennis is a fantastic way to stay fit and build mental discipline. Now that you understand how tennis scores work, grab a racket and start practicing your serve!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is zero called “Love” in tennis?

While the exact origin is debated, many believe it comes from the French word “l’oeuf,” meaning egg, which represents the shape of a zero.

2. What is a “Let” in tennis?

A “Let” occurs if a serve hits the net but still lands in the correct service box. The point is replayed without any penalty.

3. How long does a typical tennis match last?

In a best-of-three format common in India, a match usually lasts between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the skill level of the players.

4. Can I play tennis if I am a complete beginner?

Absolutely! Tennis is highly accessible in India. Most sports complexes offer coaching for beginners to help master the basic strokes like the forehand and backhand.

Are you new to the game of tennis? Looking for a quick and easy guide to understanding how tennis scoring works? Coach Joseph has got you covered with this comprehensive video. You’ll benefit from his straightforward explanation of tennis scoring.

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Tennis Scoring Rules Explained: A Complete Guide for Beginners


Tennis Scoring Rules Explained: A Complete Guide for Beginners

With the rising popularity of stars like Sumit Nagal and the legacy of legends like Leander Paes and Sania Mirza, more Indians are picking up tennis rackets than ever before. However, for a beginner, the tennis scores system can seem a bit cryptic. Why is the first point “15” and not “1”? What exactly is a “Deuce”?

In this guide, we break down the fundamental tennis scoring rules to help you follow the game on TV or compete on the local courts of Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore with confidence.

The Hierarchy of Tennis Scoring

Tennis scoring is divided into four main levels: Points, Games, Sets, and the Match. Think of it like a ladder where you must climb each rung to win.

1. Scoring Points in a Game

Instead of the traditional 1, 2, 3, 4, tennis uses a unique numerical system. The points progress as follows:

  • 0 Points: “Love”
  • 1st Point: 15
  • 2nd Point: 30
  • 3rd Point: 40
  • 4th Point: Game (Over)

When announcing the score, the server’s score is always mentioned first. For example, if the server has 30 and the receiver has 15, the score is “30-15”.

2. Deuce and Advantage

If both players reach 40-40, it is called a Deuce. To win a game from a deuce, a player must win two consecutive points:

  • Advantage In (Ad-In): The server wins the next point after deuce.
  • Advantage Out (Ad-Out): The receiver wins the next point after deuce.
  • If the player with the advantage loses the next point, the score returns to Deuce.

Winning a Set

To win a set, a player must win at least six games. However, there is a catch: you must win by a margin of at least two games (e.g., 6-4). If the score reaches 5-5, the set continues. If it reaches 6-6, a Tie-break is played.

The Tie-break

In a tie-break, the scoring switches to 1, 2, 3, etc. The first player to reach 7 points with a 2-point lead wins the game and the set (recorded as 7-6).

Winning the Match

In most professional tournaments and local Indian club matches, tennis is played in one of two formats:

  • Best of Three Sets: The first player to win two sets wins the match. This is the standard for women’s professional matches and most ATP tour events.
  • Best of Five Sets: The first player to win three sets wins. This format is primarily seen in Men’s Singles at Grand Slam events (like Wimbledon or the Australian Open).

Conclusion

While the tennis scoring rules may seem unusual at first glance, they provide the sport with its unique rhythm and high-stakes drama. Whether you are playing a friendly match at your local gymkhana or watching a Grand Slam final, understanding how tennis scores work enhances your appreciation for the tactical depth of the game. Now that you know the basics of Love, 15, 30, and 40, you are ready to hit the court!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is zero called “Love” in tennis?

The most popular theory is that it comes from the French word “l’oeuf,” meaning “the egg,” because an egg looks like a zero. Over time, English speakers mispronounced it as “Love.”

2. What is “No-Ad” scoring?

In some amateur or doubles matches (common in India to save time), “No-Ad” scoring is used. At deuce, a single “sudden death” point is played to decide the game winner.

3. What does “Set Point” and “Match Point” mean?

A set point is a situation where the player leading needs only one more point to win the current set. A match point means they need only one more point to win the entire match.

4. How many sets are played in the Olympics?

In the Olympics, both men and women typically play a best-of-three-sets format to determine the winner.

How to keep score in tennis, explained by high school tennis players, Joellen and Rebecca. By JuniorTennisUSA.com – 100% free tennis, by junior players, for junior players. @JrTennisUSA.

You will learn Love – 15 -30 – 40 – Game; ad in and ad out; moving from side to side and when to change sides.

Please see our other instructional videos:

-How to Hit a Backhand
-How to Hit a Forehand
-How to Keep Score in Tennis
-How to Score a Tennis Tiebreaker
-Interviews with top pro players by junior players

How to Learn Tennis for Beginners: A Complete Guide for Indians (2024)


How to Learn Tennis for Beginners: A Complete Guide for Indians (2024)

In a cricket-crazy nation, tennis has carved out a prestigious profile, thanks to legends like Leander Paes, Sania Mirza, and Rohan Bopanna. Whether you are looking to improve your fitness, join a social club, or nurture a professional dream, learning tennis in India has never been more accessible. This 2024 guide will walk you through everything a beginner needs to know to step onto the court with confidence.

1. Finding the Right Tennis Academy in India

The first step in your journey is choosing a place to play. Most major Indian cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Chennai have excellent facilities. You can choose between:

  • Private Academies: Often found in urban hubs, offering professional coaching and clay or synthetic hard courts.
  • Government Sports Complexes: Managed by bodies like the SAI (Sports Authority of India) or state associations, these are highly affordable for beginners.
  • Club Memberships: Gymkhanas and social clubs often have premium courts and a vibrant community of amateur players.

2. Essential Gear for Indian Conditions

Before your first lesson, you need the right kit. Given India’s varied climate, comfort and durability are key.

  • The Racket: As a beginner, look for a “head-light” or “oversized” racket. Brands like Babolat, Wilson, and Yonex are widely available on Indian e-commerce sites. Ensure the grip size is comfortable for your hand.
  • Footwear: Do not use running shoes on a tennis court; they lack lateral support and can damage the surface. Invest in specific “Non-Marking” tennis shoes.
  • Apparel: Opt for moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics to handle the Indian humidity. High-quality cotton is also a local favorite for breathability.

3. Master the Basic Grips and Strokes

Tennis is a game of rhythm and technique. Focus on these three fundamentals in your first month:

  • The Forehand: Usually the strongest weapon. Most modern coaches in India teach the semi-western grip, which helps in generating “topspin”—crucial for keeping the ball in play on hard courts.
  • The Backhand: Beginners usually start with a two-handed backhand for better stability and power.
  • The Serve: The most complex movement. Start with a basic “pancake” serve to get the ball over the net before moving to more advanced technical motions.

4. Physical Fitness and Hydration

Playing tennis in the Indian sun requires stamina. Focus on agility drills and core strength. Most importantly, stay hydrated. With temperatures often crossing 35°C, always carry a bottle of water or an electrolyte drink like electoral or coconut water to prevent heat exhaustion.

Conclusion

Learning tennis in India is a rewarding experience that offers a perfect blend of mental strategy and physical workout. By choosing the right academy, investing in basic gear, and staying consistent with your practice, you can transition from a novice to a confident player within months. Remember, every Grand Slam champion started with a single swing—2024 is your year to take that swing!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best age to start learning tennis in India?

While most pros start between ages 5 and 8, tennis is a “sport for a lifetime.” Adults in their 30s, 40s, or even 50s can start playing for fitness and recreation at most Indian clubs.

How much do tennis lessons cost in India?

Prices vary significantly. Government facilities may charge between ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 per month, while elite private academies in metro cities can charge anywhere from ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 per month for group coaching.

Which court surface is best for beginners?

In India, you will mostly find Hard Courts (synthetic) and Clay Courts. Hard courts are great for beginners as the ball bounce is predictable, making it easier to time your shots.

Do I need an expensive racket to start?

No. For a beginner, a racket in the range of ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 is more than sufficient. You can upgrade to professional-grade graphite rackets once you develop your playing style.

How does Norman Powell being an All-Star this season ‘complete the story’?

As the Miami Heat are in the midst of a much-needed All-Star break, one of the few players representing the team this weekend is Norman Powell. With Powell earning All-Star honors for the first time with the Heat, which has been a goal of his for some time, he mentioned why this season has come full circle in a certain way.

Powell was considered an All-Star candidate by many last season with the Los Angeles Clippers, as he stood out as an offensive lineman for the team, especially when they were dealing with injuries to Kawhi Leonard and others.

Fast forward to this year, Powell has shined for Miami, leading the way with 23 points per game, but he believes it “completes the story” given that the All-Star festivities take place in his former home of Los Angeles.

“I think that wraps up the story,” Powell said, according to The Miami Herald. “I think it’s something you can’t even write about or think about. It wasn’t like, ‘Oh, the All-Star Game is in L.A., now I’m definitely trying to make it.’ “I guess that’s just the way it is.”

“I really thought I’d be an All-Star with the team last year, and it didn’t happen,” Powell continued, referencing this time with the Clippers. “Moves are made, and then that spot is actually the same place you were just traded from, and you get selected to be one and go back in front of that organization, in front of the fans. I think it’s just a nice little Easter egg to the story of my career.”

At any rate, Powell is looking to help the Heat further as the team’s record is 29-27, which gives them the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference.


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