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Flashscore’s Exclusive Interview With Sulley Muntari

In Italy, the dreams of young football talents often revolve around wearing the iconic jerseys of Inter Milan or AC Milan. Few players have had the rare privilege of representing both of these storied clubs, with only 37 individuals achieving this feat. Among them is Sulley Muntari (40), a name synonymous with tenacity and skill on the pitch.

Muntari, renowned for his powerful left foot, enjoyed a trophy-laden tenure at Inter Milan, where he was part of the legendary squad that clinched a historic treble. Before his time in Milan, he contributed to Portsmouth’s unforgettable FA Cup victory in 2008.

In an exclusive interview with Flashscore, Muntari reflected on his journey, sharing insights about the Portsmouth team that made history, his experiences working under the astute Harry Redknapp, and how Jose Mourinho played a pivotal role in convincing him to join Inter. He also weighed in on the controversial debate surrounding whether Wesley Sneijder deserved the 2010 Ballon d’Or.

Read the rest at https://www.flashscore.com/news/exclusive-muntari-on-portsmouth-glory-working-with-mourinho-ibrahimovic-s-impact/G4trmPI8/ including Muntari’s thoughts on Ibra as a team mate.

Week 22: Milan – Parma

Milan – Parma Serie A matchday 22 January 26 2025 12:30CET

A rare early afternoon game versus Parma feels like another chance for Conceicao and Milan to start a push for a top 4 (or as it is unfolding a top 5) spot and Champions League place. Having fallen to Juventus but beaten Girona the team needs consistency, effort and reinforcements too. Injuries have now eased though Emerson Royal got himself injured moments into the game versus Girona and perhaps days before being shipped out of Milan. The Brazilian right back has been labeled a flop and was to be cut loose six months after arriving. He may now become part of another summer of change.

Calabria, seemingly destined to leave on a free in the summer, looks to be the starter but recently signed Kyle Walker – complete with his chosen #32 jersey – stands to become a starter. The Englishman arrives from Manchester City with an option to buy in what is a familiar looking Milan signing. Thiaw is still out therefore Gabbia should partner Tomori at the back. Pavlovic had a somewhat praiseworthy game versus Girona but is unlikely to become a starter, he may not even remain at Milan much longer. Theo needs to rediscover his speed and with the speedy Walker on the other flank they could provide Milan with a dual threat. Bennacer and Musah are the expected pivots but Fofana may start instead of the latter. The Frenchman may not be risked because he is one yellow away from missing the Milan derby next weekend. Reijnders, Pulisic and Leao should get the start behind Morata. The rumour mill regarding a starting center forward role has focused on Feyenoord’s Santiago Gimenez. The 23 years old Mexican is the subject of a formal Milan bid but the Dutch team may not want to sell this January and will likely receive higher bids than any Milan offer any way. As history suggests one can never be confident about any player linked to Milan actually becoming a rossoneri.

Parma’s indifferent form and long injury list has them flirting with the relegations spots. Milan fans know what that could mean. Conceicao will not want to see more points dropped.

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Kyle Walker joins on loan

Player Summary
Name:
Kyle Walker
Date of Birth:
May 28, 1990
Age:
34
Height:
1.83 m
Citizenship:
England
Position:
Fullback
Foot:
Right
Agency:
None
Ownership:
AC Milan
Contract Expires:
Jun 30, 2025
Current Club:
AC Milan
Joined:
Jan 24, 2025

Kyle Walker joins from Manchester City on loan. There is an option to buy the speedy fullback this coming summer for €5 million. The 34 years old has 93 English caps and has played 319 times for City since joining them from Tottenham in 2017.

Emerson Royal’s recent long term injury, the player is said to be out for two months, and Calabria’s uncertain future at Milan made this transfer a more urgent need.

Week 21: Juventus – Milan

Juventus – Milan Serie A matchday 21 January 18 2025 18:00CET

The inability to come away with the full three points versus a lowly team like Cagliari looked familiar to fans and the midweek come back win at Como looked like the team could do more. Conceicao has voiced dissatisfaction but no matter it all the team has to do with two big absences for this important match against Juventus. Thiaw and Pulisic came out of the midweek match injured and while neither are long term absences they will be missed. Gabbia should replace the former and Reijnders move further up to play in place of the latter.

With a Champions League place the only realistic looking objective the team heads into the second half hoping for better finishing up front and help on the transfer market. Various rumours point to Manchester City’s Kyle Walker and Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford as possible additions. Neither will come with a cheap salary and Milan’s apparent unwillingness to spend big means one or both of high transfer fees or salaries are off the table. This of course limits the options and almost certainly means the team will be outspent by most. When the transfer window closes in just over two weeks Milan might be no closer to their stated ambition.

Theo and Emerson Royal will the full backs with Bennacer and Fofana the pivots in what is likely to remain a 4-2-3-1 line up. Musah, Reijdners and Leao are the starters behind Abraham. Morata’s form has a lot to be desired but he is suspended for this one and so Abraham will get the start regardless of his frustrating form when chances arrive.

Tomori is again linked with a Juventus move and whether or not the rumour is accurate it is almost certain the Old Lady will be more active as far as spending – and selling – goes this January. Juventus remain the only unbeaten team in the Serie A this season but with 13 ties in the first 20 games.

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SuperClubs vs. Underdogs: The Dynamic of Competition in Professional Soccer

Professional soccer is more than a game – it’s a clash of dreams, skill, and sheer determination. At its heart lies the captivating rivalry between super clubs and underdogs, a dynamic that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. Superclubs dazzle with star players and unmatched resources, dominating leagues and setting records.

Yet, the underdogs, fueled by grit and heart, bring the unpredictable magic that makes soccer so beloved. These moments define the sport, no matter if it’s a stunning upset or a hard-fought draw.

The Rise of Super Clubs: Powerhouses of Modern Soccer

Modern soccer has seen the emergence of “super clubs” – teams that transcend their local leagues to become global icons.

These powerhouses dominate the sport and the cultural landscape, boasting worldwide fanbases, state-of-the-art facilities, and unmatched financial resources. Clubs that were once neighborhood favorites are now household names, shaping how the world experiences soccer.

The influence of super clubs stems from their ability to consistently attract top-tier talent. With access to the best players, elite coaching staff, and cutting-edge sports science, they’ve turned soccer into a spectacle of precision and artistry.

This level of dominance ensures their presence in major tournaments and keeps their fans eagerly watching every match. It’s a magnet for excitement, and platforms like FanDuel Sportsbook amplify that thrill by allowing fans to engage with the game on a deeper level, adding layers of strategy to every play.

While the prominence of super clubs brings glamour and high-stakes drama to soccer, it also sparks debates about the sport’s competitive balance. Despite the criticisms, their rise has elevated the game’s global profile, attracting millions to the beautiful game and proving that soccer’s magic can inspire across borders, generations, and time zones.

The Role of Underdogs: Heart and Determination

The underdog narrative resonates across society, inspiring people to root for those who overcome steep odds to succeed. While common in sports, brands like IBM and T-Mobile have embraced this approach to highlight their journeys of reinvention and competition.

Research from the University of South Florida reveals that leaders can foster an underdog spirit within organizations by creating shared goals, emphasizing collective strength, and building trust.

However, this narrative must evolve to maintain relevance and avoid unethical practices, ensuring sustainable growth and motivation.

Underdogs in soccer embody heart and determination, showcasing the beauty of the sport’s unpredictability. With limited resources, they defy expectations through teamwork and resilience. Their victories inspire fans worldwide, proving that grit can overcome talent. These stories remind us why soccer is more than a game—it celebrates possibility.

Financial Disparities: A Double-Edged Sword

In modern soccer, financial disparities create both opportunities and challenges. Wealthy clubs dominate with vast resources, attracting top players, building state-of-the-art facilities, and securing global sponsorship deals. These advantages lead to consistent success, making them household names and elevating the sport’s visibility worldwide.

However, this financial clout often comes at the expense of smaller clubs. Many struggle to compete in leagues where revenue from broadcasting rights and sponsorships is unevenly distributed. As transfer fees and player wages soar, these clubs face challenges retaining talent or breaking into elite competitions, widening the gap further.

Underdog stories continue to captivate fans despite these inequalities, proving that heart and strategy can sometimes outshine money.

Reforms like salary caps or equitable revenue sharing could be considered to maintain soccer’s competitive edge. These would ensure financial stability while keeping the sport’s unpredictability alive. Soccer thrives when everyone has a fair chance to succeed.

The Thrill of Upsets: Why Fans Love an Underdog Victory

People naturally gravitate toward underdogs, drawn by their resilience and the thrill of seeing them defy expectations. Psychologists suggest this stems from our desire for fairness, a preference for unexpected triumphs, and even a sense of satisfaction when dominant figures are challenged.

Studies reveal that people support those perceived as less advantaged, rooting for them to overcome obstacles. However, this support has limits; when personal stakes are high, practicality often outweighs sentiment.

While underdogs inspire hope and a belief in possibilities, our enthusiasm fades when reliability becomes important. Ultimately, rooting for underdogs reflects our complex values and emotions.

The Future of Competition: Balancing Power and Fairness

The future of competition in sports hinges on finding a balance between power and fairness. As financial disparities grow, dominant teams often overshadow smaller ones, leading to predictable outcomes and waning excitement.

To preserve the spirit of competition, initiatives like salary caps, revenue sharing, and fair play regulations are essential. These measures can ensure that all teams, regardless of resources, have a fighting chance to succeed.

Fairer competition enriches the game and fosters stronger connections between fans and their teams. A balanced approach keeps the playing field level and the passion for sports alive for generations.

Conclusion

The dynamic between super clubs and underdogs defines the heart of professional soccer. Superclubs bring the glamour, while underdogs remind us of the game’s magic and unpredictability. Financial disparities may widen the gap, but true competition thrives on heart and fair play. Balancing power and opportunity ensures soccer remains exciting and inclusive, captivating fans across the globe.

Week 20: Milan – Cagliari, On Conceicao And The Second Half

Milan – Cagliari Serie A matchday 20 January 11 2025 20:45CET

Sergio Conceicao was hired after Fonseca was sacked in less than professional manner, such that Ibra had to apologize for the manner of his dismissal with news leaking before the now former coach knew. Character and reputation wise the two coaches are different and it has showed already. Conceicao was the tough, hard to play against player and his coaching – on pitch (and training) – demands are harder than most modern coaches. New strict training, locker room rules have already been handed down. The coach opened his Milan account steering Milan to a SuperCoppa win in Saudi Arabia and this quick trophy has enhanced his ability to put in the rules and, hopefully, move the team forward.

The team is way behind Napoli for the top spot in the Serie A and even a Champions League spot is a hard reach. A busy January continues with Serie A and champions League games. As Milan history shows eighteenth placed Cagliari won’t be an easy three points. It is hoped that Leao and Theo will be revitalized for this second half of season. The coach mostly known for a 4-4-2 formation has claimed that formations don’t matter much and he may continue with a 4-2-3-1 for now. January market action, with a center forward like Marcus Rashford on loan from Manchester United, expected may change the coach’s thinking. Okafor is on the verge of an exit on loan to Leipzig, freeing such spot.

Maignan was handed the captaincy for a game in Saudi Arabia and the goalkeeper will of course be the starting goalie when healthy. Calabria or Emerson Royal will likely alternate in right back. Thiaw and Tomori look to be the preferred center back pairing. Gabbia being the odd man out would be surprising if his recent form is anything to go by. Theo will be the left back and as mentioned his desire and form will go a long way to dictate the second half of the season.

While the team might retain something like a 4-2-3-1 changes are predicted for this game at least. Musah and Fofana would be the pivots and the front four will feature a more advanced Reijnders with Pulisic and Leao behind Morata. Loftus-Cheek and Chukwueze’s returns from injury later in the month might mean that the front four change is only temporary.

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Week 18: Milan – Roma

Milan – Roma Serie A matchday 18 December 29 2024 20:45CET

Milan close out the calendar year amidst a crisis. Sitting in eighth place and some 13 points behind surprise league leaders Atalanta is not what any fan would want. Management and ownership exacerbate the poor season with business like statements. Claims that the aim is to return Milan to the top are interspersed with the need for prudent spending and taking opportunities to make 70 million (from a Tonali sale). The 70 million is apparently well reinvested and of course there are bright spots in the likes of Pulisic, Reijnders and arguably more but the position of the team and the quality on the pitch don’t show it.

Fonseca has hardly convinced as well. His appointment was of course not the most popular and his chosen 11s often perplex as well. As is customary with Milan injuries don’t help the cause either. As it stands at the end of 2024 Bennacer is back for the bench after a lengthy absence but Leao, Pulisic, Okafor, Musah, Loftus- Cheek join Florenzi as absentees. Indications are that all short term and most could be back as early as the next Serie A game vs Cagliari – which comes after the January 3rd Supercoppa Italiana match against Juventus in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The predicted starting 11 for this week 18 match versus Roma doesn’t deviate from the recent norm too much. Earlier in the week indications were that Theo would be left out again but he looks to start. The back four in front of Maignan should be Emerson Royal, Gabbia, Thiaw and the Frenchman. The absences might push Terracciano to the midfield alongside Fofana. This will push Reijnders further forward allowing him to be more of the goal threat that he has been so far this season. Chukwueze will be the right winger and Jiminez looks to use his skills on the left. Morata should start as the center forward.

Claudio Ranieri re-took over the reins of Roma in November after the capital team underperformed under Daniele De Rossi and Ivan Juric. I Giallorossi are nevertheless still struggling.

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Week 17: Verona – Milan

Verona – Milan December 20 2024 20:45CET

A tie versus Genoa at home on a night of 125th birthday celebrations highlighted the crisis the team is in. The absentees in the celebrations, notably Maldini, added to the frustrations and anger of fans and Curva Sud. All in all Fonseca and up the team has turned the fans against the current ownership. Rumours of Elliott retaking over the team naturally appeared and were ofcourse denied.

On the pitch Fonseca opted for some youth and leaving Theo on the bench. The game didn’t provide much to reassure fans. Liberali showed glimpses but at 17 it is impossible to fully judge a player with little senior experience. Jimenez showcased his talents as well but his future is as much in Milan’s hands as it is in Real Madrid’s.

Word is Fonseca will perhaps keep the same lineup for the trip to Verona. Injuries are of course forcing his hand and the list is not getting smaller this week and into the new year. Add to that Morata is ill and won’t even be on the bench for this trip. Expect to see Maignan, Emerson Royal, Thiaw, Gabbia and Jimenez again. Theo staying on the bench again seems somewhat risky and perplexing but Fonseca did the same with Leao weeks earlier, and it is very debatable if anything was achieved. Fofana, Reijnders, Chukwueze, Leao and Abraham will play further up but as Loftus-Cheek, Pulisic, Musah, Okafor are out it remains to be seen who the 11th player will be.

On the good news front reports indicate the likes of Pulisic, Reijnders and Maignan will sign extensions and will perhaps be joined by the aforementioned Theo.

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Week 16: Milan – Genoa Happy Birthday Milan

Week 16: Milan – Genoa December 16 2024 20:45CET

Ahead of the team’s 125th anniversary some but not all of the club’s legends will be present for the celebrations. Controversy surrounds the team in several areas. First the absentees as mentioned, second Fonseca’s comments about referees, third the coach’s comments about specific player mistakes and of course the position of the team in the table. A coach calling out referees is not new but only adds to the negativity when results are not as expected. Many would agree that mentioning specific mistakes is best kept in the locker room.

Milan sit in eighth place as this game versus Genoa is to start. The loss against Atalanta highlighted the team’s limitations and the struggle to beat Red Star Belgrade 2-1 with a late goal solidified the evidence. As is now customary for Milan injuries have piled up as well. Pulisic, Loftus-Cheek and Musah are going to be out and Morata is unlikely to be ready and could only make the bench. Bennacer, Florenzi and Jovic remain out as well. Latest reports say that Pulisic is close to a contract extension and he is set to miss games until early January after injuring his calf. The absences mean Mattia Liberali is a candidate to start as playmaker behind Abraham. The 17 year old is a promising and talented prospect but it remains to be seen if he is ready for senior minutes after getting none since the preseason.

Fueling further controversy is the apparent decision to start Theo on the bench. Fonseca seems to be gambling on his starting 11 as he did with leaving Leao out earlier in the season. Terracciano or Jimenez are set to start as left back. This also highlights how the team is poorly built with a natural Theo backup missing from the team as neither are true left backs.

Milan will meet Patrick Vieira as the Frenchman recently took the helm of the Il Grifone in place of the fired Alberto Gilardino.

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Week 15: Atalanta – Milan

Atalanta – Milan Serie A matchday 15 December 6 2024 20:45CET

Defensively lapses and not quite impressive play but the 6-1 Coppa Italia win versus Serie B leading Sassuolo has Milan winning three in a row and undefeated for over a month. With all that Milan lie 10 points behind Napoli and first first place – with a game in hand.

Atalanta are flying high, in second place on a eight game winning streak. With the team nearing its 125th birthday it will be a big win if Milan can come away from Bergamo with a win. The line up is expected to be slightly more settled and predictable. Maignan will start behind Emerson Royal, Thiaw, Gabbia and Theo. The latter remaining the subject of question marks on and off the pitch. Fofana and Reijnders will be the midfield pivots., The latter doing much more offensively than otherwise. The Dutch midfielder has been the star of the team in recent weeks. Musah shpuld be preferred in a nominal right wing role, giving more solidity eventhough Chukwueze is coming off a two goal performance against Sassuolo. Pulisic in the middle and Leao on the left will complete the lineup behind Morata. Leao’s (lack of) usage remains controversial but it is felt he will now get more starts as expected.

Atalanta present goal scoring threat in Mateo Retegui and Ademola Lookman with the former leading the Serie A in goals. Other familiar names on the host’s lineup sheet are of course Charles De Ketelaere and Mario Pasalic.

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