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November 1, 2023

November 1, 2023 IFMSPORTS

Inter Miami’s China Tour Canceled, Disappointing Messi Fans

Inter Miami's eagerly anticipated plan to play two games in China this month, featuring football legend Lionel Messi, has been called off, the club announced on Wednesday. Inter Miami revealed that the cancellation was at the behest of the tour's promoter, citing "unforeseen circumstances in China" in an online statement.

The tour organizer also confirmed the cancellation in a post on a Chinese social media platform, expressing deep regret for the decision but refraining from providing specific reasons for the change in plans.

Originally, the team was set to play two friendly matches against Chinese Super League teams, with the first match against Qingdao Hainiu scheduled for Sunday and the second against Chengdu Rongcheng three days later.

Lionel Messi, the recent World Cup champion, enjoys immense popularity in China, where the men's national team has faced challenges in recent years and the domestic league has grappled with corruption-related issues. Messi's visit to China has traditionally been met with great enthusiasm from football fans.

In June, Messi led the Argentinian national team to a 2-0 victory over Australia in an international friendly match, delighting thousands of fans in Argentina, known for their blue-and-white striped jerseys.

The 36-year-old football icon was recently awarded his eighth Ballon d'Or trophy in Paris, further solidifying his record as the player with the most Ballon d'Or awards in history, surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo's five.

Messi's arrival at Inter Miami in July substantially impacted the club's global social media following. The team achieved a significant milestone on the field by winning its first trophy with a Leagues Cup triumph in August.

The cancellation of the China tour is undoubtedly disappointing for both Inter Miami and Messi's enthusiastic Chinese fans. However, it underscores the unpredictability and challenges faced in organising international sports events, and fans will eagerly await the next opportunity to see Messi in action.

October 31, 2023

October 31, 2023 IFMSPORTS

Australia Leaves 2034 World Cup Bid For Saudi

Australia has decided not to pursue a bid for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, solidifying Saudi Arabia's position as the frontrunner to host the prestigious event.

Football Australia withdrew its bid on the October 31 deadline following the Asian Football Confederation's endorsement of Saudi Arabia.

Football Australia explained their decision in a statement, saying, "We have thoroughly considered the opportunity to host the FIFA World Cup and, after weighing all relevant factors, we have chosen not to pursue the 2034 competition."

FIFA, the global governing body of football, had opened the bidding process for the rotating World Cup hosting rights in Asia and Oceania. This move came after announcing that Morocco, Spain, and Portugal would be joint hosts for the 2030 edition. It's worth noting that Australia and New Zealand successfully co-hosted the Women's World Cup this year, receiving positive reviews for their efforts.

Saudi Arabia's aspiration to host the 2034 Men's World Cup represents the latest milestone in its campaign to establish the kingdom as a prominent force in global sports.

October 30, 2023

October 30, 2023October 30, 2023 IFMSPORTS

I Am Happy At Napoli, Osimhen Insists

Victor Osimhen, the Nigerian football star, has quashed rumors linking him to a move to English Premier League clubs Liverpool and Chelsea. He's made it clear that he is content playing in Serie A with Napoli.

Throughout the summer transfer window, Napoli had to repel interest in Osimhen, who emerged as their top scorer last season with 26 goals in 32 Serie A matches. Manchester United, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain were reportedly interested, but Napoli's president, Aurelio de Laurentiis, set a hefty price tag of over £100 million for the Nigerian international.

Consequently, interested clubs turned their attention elsewhere, and Osimhen continued with Napoli, starting the 2023-24 season with a commendable record of six goals and one assist in 10 games.

Despite his success on the field, Osimhen's future remains uncertain, with just two years left on his contract and reported difficulties in contract renewal negotiations. Additionally, there were concerning TikTok videos from Napoli that appeared to mock the player, leading to a brief threat of legal action by his agent, followed by a private apology.

Osimhen's season also included a dispute with manager Rudi Garcia and rumors of a strained relationship between De Laurentiis and the player. De Laurentiis had suggested he might sell Osimhen in 2024 if he doesn't agree to a contract extension, which attracted attention from Liverpool and Chelsea.

In a recent interview with Mario Balotelli and Emiliano Viviano, the 24-year-old affirmed his loyalty to Napoli, stating, "I am happy at Napoli. People don’t know how difficult it is to play in Serie A. From a tactical and physical point of view, it’s one of the most difficult leagues to play in."

October 27, 2023

October 27, 2023 IFMSPORTS

Newcastle Midfielder Sandro Tonali Is Still Eligible Despite A 10-month Ban For Violating Betting Rules

Newcastle are in an unusual situation of ambiguity, with midfielder Sandro Tonali set to travel with the squad for Saturday’s game against Wolves despite a 10-month suspension.

According to an Italian source, the 10-month ban is still subject to approval by Italian authorities. Tonali is open for selection until formal ratification occurs on Friday afternoon.

The 23-year-old, a £55 million summer transfer from AC Milan, will miss the rest of Newcastle’s season as well as Italy’s Euro 2024 finals campaign if they qualify. Tonali will be unable to play competitive football until August 2024, although he will be able to train with Newcastle and play in friendlies until then.

Tonali had been cooperating with the inquiry, and his legal team was working on a plea bargain after admitting to betting on AC Milan to win games in a session at the Italian Federation in Turin.

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Author: IFMSPORTS

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