Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has shared his profound disappointment after his club failed to secure a place in next season's UEFA Champions League, stating that there are "absolutely no excuses" for this outcome.

Salah took to social media shortly after Manchester United's victory over Chelsea confirmed Liverpool's fifth-place finish, which means they will participate in the Europa League instead.

In his heartfelt post, the 30-year-old Egyptian international acknowledged the team's letdown, expressing remorse to the fans and himself. Despite winning seven of their last eight matches in a late surge for fourth place, Liverpool's inconsistent form throughout the season ultimately proved too difficult to overcome.

Manchester United's draw against Chelsea in their penultimate game secured their Champions League qualification, joining Manchester City, Arsenal, and Newcastle United as England's representatives in the elite European competition next season.

Salah, who was part of Liverpool's triumphant Champions League campaign in 2018-19 and the runner-up team in the subsequent year, acknowledged that Liverpool possessed all the necessary ingredients to secure a spot in next year's tournament but ultimately fell short.

As a club with high expectations, Salah emphasized that qualifying for the Champions League is the bare minimum for Liverpool. He sincerely apologized to the fans but expressed that it is too soon for an uplifting or optimistic message.

The disappointment within the Liverpool camp is palpable, and Salah's candid statement reflects the collective sentiment as the team prepares for their Europa League campaign next season.

Ivan Toney, the talented striker of Brentford, has been granted a reduced ban from football following the diagnosis of a gambling addiction.

Earlier this month, Toney accepted the violation of Football Association (FA) betting rules, resulting in an initial eight-month ban.

During the FA's regulatory commission proceedings, a psychiatry expert provided evidence that confirmed Toney's gambling addiction and emphasized the need for professional assistance.

Consequently, the commission decided to reduce Toney's original 11-month sanction by three months.

In its recently published written statement explaining the decision, the commission highlighted that Toney had admitted to repeatedly lying during his initial interviews with the FA.

However, it also acknowledged that Toney has since ceased gambling on football, though he continues to bet on other sports.

Furthermore, the commission recognized his determination to address his gambling problem through therapy.

The reduced ban allows Toney an opportunity to seek the necessary support and treatment for his addiction. It is hoped that this decision will not only aid his personal recovery but also serve as a reminder of the importance of addressing and supporting individuals facing gambling-related challenges within the sporting community.

Renowned French footballer and Juventus midfielder, Paul Pogba, and his wife, Zulay, are overjoyed to announce the birth of their third child.

On Wednesday night, Pogba took to his Instagram account to share the heartwarming news and precious photos of himself, his wife, and their newborn baby.

In a heartfelt caption, he expressed his gratitude and happiness, stating, "Al Hamdullilah © a new Pogba member has arrived. So proud of my Queen * #zulaypogba I'm so so so happy #Daddyofthree."

The couple's joy knows no bounds as they welcome their newest addition to the family.

As Paul Pogba continues to shine on the football field, captivating fans around the world with his exceptional skills, he now embarks on an equally rewarding and fulfilling journey as a devoted father of three.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Paul Pogba and Zulay on the arrival of their precious bundle of joy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Paul Labile Pogba (@paulpogba)

PSV Eindhoven has announced that head coach Ruud van Nistelrooy has left the club before their final game of the season, citing "a lack of support within the club" as the reason for his departure, according to a statement released by the club.

Since taking over the role in March 2022, Van Nistelrooy has led PSV to victory in the Dutch Cup and Dutch Super Cup.

Discussions about his future at the club were scheduled for Sunday, but the 46-year-old coach decided to resign beforehand.

PSV expressed their regret over Van Nistelrooy's decision and acknowledged his achievements during his tenure. Currently occupying the second position in the Eredivisie, PSV is 10 points behind league leaders Feyenoord and holds a three-point advantage over third-placed Ajax.

With an important game against AZ Alkmaar on the horizon, PSV aims to secure a spot in the qualification stage of the Champions League by avoiding defeat.

The club stated that Van Nistelrooy informed the first-team squad and coaching staff about his immediate resignation due to a lack of support within the organization.

PSV will now rely on assistant coach Fred Rutten to take over on a temporary basis as they strive to conclude the season strongly.