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Everyone makes mistakes – Super Eagles coach Chelle defends Russia goalkeeper Safonov

Published

4 weeks ago

June 7, 2025

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has defended Russia goalkeeper Matvey Safonov following his error during the two sides’ 1-1 international friendly draw on Friday in Moscow.

Recall that Safonov mistakenly passed the ball to substitute Tolu Arokodare, who slotted home the Super Eagles’ equalising goal in the 71st minute. Semi Ajayi had earlier scored an own goal in the first half of the encounter at the Luzhniki Stadium.

Reacting to the error made by the Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper, Chelle expressed his support for the 26-year-old by insisting that everyone makes mistakes.
“Everyone makes mistakes – it’s part of the game,” Chelle said at his post-match interview when asked about Safonov’s error.
“Goals are scored precisely because of mistakes. I don’t think the goalkeeper is the only one to blame – it’s the result of the entire team’s actions. I follow the French championship and I can say: you’ve a great goalkeeper,” he added.

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Transfer: Gyokeres agrees deal with Arsenal

Published

5 hours ago

July 6, 2025

Ekwutos Blog

Sporting striker, Viktor Gyokeres, has reached agreement on contract terms with Arsenal, as he seeks to complete a move to the Premier League this summer.

Gyokeres has already threatened to go on strike, after claiming the Portuguese champions reneged on a gentleman’s agreement from last year.

It now appears the 27-year-old will get this wish, as club-to-club negotiations are now on over a structure for the transfer fee.

This was revealed by football transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano, via X on Sunday.

Romano tweeted: “Gyökeres has reached TOTAL agreement with Arsenal on contract terms and informed Sporting about his desire to join #AFC.

“No intention to discuss other options, only to proceed with Arsenal as soon as possible.

“Deal well underway.”

SportsNews

EPL: Zubimendi’s shirt number at Arsenal confirmed

Published

5 hours ago

July 6, 2025

Ekwutos Blog

New Arsenal midfielder, Martin Zubimendi, will wear the no. 36 shirt at the Emirates.

This was confirmed on Sunday, after he was officially unveiled by the Gunners.

Zubimendi becomes Mikel Arteta’s second summer signing after Kepa Arizzabalaga joined from Chelsea.

Arsenal will pay Real Sociedad €65m for the Spain international.

“Martin Zubimendi is a player who will bring a huge amount of quality and football intelligence to our team,” manager Mikel Arteta speaking on Zubimendi, said.

He will fit in really well & he has all the attributes to be a key player for us.

“The standard he has consistently performed at over the last few seasons for both club and country is exactly why we are so excited to have him with us.”

Zubimendi is widely seen as replacement for Jorginho, who signed for Flamengo as a free agent this summer.

SportsNews

Zubimendi explains decision to join Arsenal

Published

5 hours ago

July 6, 2025

Ekwutos Blog

Newly signed Arsenal midfielder, Martin Zubimendi, has explained why he chose to join the north London side.

Zubimendi, 26, who joined the Gunners just hours ago, cited Mikel Arteta’s style of play as the key factor behind his decision.

The Spanish international made 236 appearances for Real Sociedad, scoring 10 goals and providing 9 assists.

Arsenal reportedly paid £60 million to secure his services in a deal that will keep him at the club until 2030.

Following the completion of his move to north London, Zubimendi told the club’s website: “Once I made the decision to leave, I set my sights on Arsenal because I think their style of play is a good fit for me.”

He described Arsenal as a youthful, highly motivated, and ambitious team.

Zubimendi added that the best of Mikel Arteta’s side is yet to come, and vowed to give his all to help restore the former Premier League champions to glory.