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Sunday, September 1, 2024

Jamie Carragher names ‘brilliant’ Liverpool star who was even better than Ryan Gravenberch vs Man Utd

Liverpool maintained their 100% record in the Premier League with a comfortable win against rivals Manchester United.

Two goals from Luis Diaz coupled with a Mohamed Salah strike in the second-half were enough for Liverpool to win all three points at Old Trafford, with Erik Ten Hag’s side off the boil once again against the Reds.

With Ryan Gravenberch winning praise from Jamie Carragher for his performance against the Red Devils, the Dutch international enjoyed what might have been the midfielder’s best game yet for Liverpool since joining last year.

Yet Carragher believes another Liverpool player was even better against United.
Luis Diaz of Liverpool celebrates after scoring his side's first goal during the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Liverpool FC...
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Luis Diaz named Liverpool’s MOTM in 3-0 Manchester United win
Speaking on Sky Sports coverage of the match, the pundit named Diaz as the Man of the Match for the fixture, with the Colombian international adding to his impressive tally already for the season.

The attacker has started off the year in fine form with three goals and assist in three Premier League games, with Diaz making the left-wing position his own despite strong competition in the Liverpool squad.

And for Carragher, Diaz was the best player on the pitch, with the former FC Porto star showcasing why he can be such an important figure for Liverpool this season under new manager Arne Slot.

Carragher said: “I have gone for Diaz because he has got the two goals and that just took the game away from Manchester United. You never felt Manchester United will get really back into the game. He has made a brilliant start to this season under a new manager, almost feels like a different type of player.”

Luis Diaz of Liverpool celebrates after scoring his side's second goal during the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Liverpool F...
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Liverpool could be about to see the best version of Diaz yet

Diaz has had a hit-and-miss time at Liverpool since joining from Porto, yet early signs this season have been very encouraging under Slot and playing a somewhat new brand of football.

The Colombian international is finding himself in better positions and willing to take more chances for himself rather than sharing the load or missing out on the space to create danger for Liverpool.

And for Liverpool fans, they could now be about to see the best version of Diaz yet, with the 27-year-old attacker hitting his prime and showing why he can be a top threat in the Premier League this season

This is my last year at Liverpool, says Salah

Liverpool forward, Mohmamed Salah, has stated that 2024/2025 season would be his last in a Liverpool shirt, noting that there have been no contract talks between him and Liverpool.

According to Skysports, the forward stated this on the sidelines after Liverpool thumped Manchester United 3-0 at Old Trafford on Sunday.

“As you know, it’s my last year at the club. I want to enjoy it and I don’t want to think about it. I feel like I’m free to play football and then we’ll see what happens next year,” he said.

However, Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher has predicted Salah might stay on.

“I would be shocked if Salah isn’t playing for Liverpool next season,” said Carragher.

Salah set up Luis Diaz’s double and then scored a third to silence Old Trafford on Super Sunday, before appearing to confirm his Liverpool exit would be at the end of this season when interviewed post-match.

He continued, “Coming into the game, I said it could be the last time (I play here with Liverpool).

“No one at the club has spoken to me about contracts, so I’m just like, ‘OK, I’m playing my last season’ and see what happens at the end of the season.


“It’s not up to me, but nobody’s talked to me from the club. We will see.”

Salah, whose contract expires next summer, has been at Anfield since the summer of 2017 when he signed from Roma for a then club-record fee.

Nigerian Superstar Victor Osimhen Headlines FIFA’s Campaign Against Racism

Napoli’s prolific goal-scorer, Victor Osimhen, has been chosen by FIFA to be the face of their latest campaign against racism in football. The Nigerian international’s rise to prominence and his personal experiences make him the perfect ambassador for this crucial initiative.
Osimhen, who has been subjected to racist abuse in the past, is determined to use his platform to spread awareness and promote inclusivity. “I’m honored to be part of this campaign,” he said. “Racism has no place in football or society. We must work together to create a more tolerant and respectful environment for all.”

The campaign, titled “Kick Out Racism,” aims to educate players, officials, and fans about the devastating effects of racism and discrimination. FIFA will release a series of videos, social media posts, and educational materials featuring Osimhen and other top players.

FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, praised Osimhen’s commitment to the cause. “Victor’s passion and dedication to fighting racism are truly inspiring. He is a role model for millions of young players around the world.”
Osimhen’s involvement in the campaign is expected to amplify its reach and impact, especially in Africa, where he is a beloved figure. The Nigerian Football Federation has expressed its support for the initiative, urging all stakeholders to join the fight against racism.

By choosing Osimhen as the face of their campaign, FIFA has sent a strong message that racism will not be tolerated in football. Together, we can create a more inclusive and beautiful game.

Raphinha hints at Nico Williams' possible move to Barcelona

Brazil winger Raphinha scored a hat-trick as Barcelona thrashed Real Valladolid 7-0 on Saturday to make it four wins from four in La Liga under new coach Hansi Flick.

The former Leeds player had to put up with criticism last year and seems to have had to work harder than the rest, which is getting him good results. His place in Flick's squad was threatened by Nico Williams' possible arrival from Athletic, to which he referred in his post-match remarks.

"Today's game has taught us that there is no need for other players to arrive. We are in very good shape. The team is giving its best in the games and the training sessions. Today's result shows what we're working on," he told reporters after his side's win.

"I feel good. I've been working hard since I came back from my holidays. I knew that this season would be very important for me and I'm trying to do my best to help my teammates and have more confidence to keep playing good games," the Brazilian added.