This week in soccer news brought us heated refereeing debates, a surprise signing worthy of a Hollywood script, and a potential blockbuster defensive move. Let’s dive right in!
Former Referees Blast Barcelona Penalty Decision During Getafe Draw
Former referees have heavily criticized the decision not to award Barcelona a penalty in their 1-1 draw with Getafe, after Jules Kounde appeared to be pulled down in the box. Despite replays clearly showing contact from Chrisantus Uche, the referee waved play on, backed up by VAR. Multiple former officials described it as “a resounding penalty,” leaving Barcelona feeling robbed of vital points at a time when direct rivals like Atletico Madrid are also dropping points.
“The Incredible Finisher Spotted by Giggs” – How Marmoush Fits Man City
Manchester City’s surprising £59m signing, Omar Marmoush, has captured headlines. Discovered by Ryan Giggs at a youth tournament in Dubai, the Egyptian forward was described as “an uncut diamond” at Wolfsburg. After netting 20 goals at Eintracht Frankfurt, he’s drawn comparisons to Mohamed Salah and now arrives at City as their third January capture. Marmoush’s pace, technical skill, and lethal finishing have turned him into one of Europe’s most promising strikers.
Real Madrid Considering Pursuit of Second Liverpool Defender Amid Contract Talks
Meanwhile, Real Madrid are reported to be considering a move for Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate. The French center-back, whose contract situation at Anfield is not fully settled, has attracted interest from both Madrid and PSG. With Trent Alexander-Arnold also linked with a free transfer move to Los Blancos, Liverpool might find themselves juggling multiple big decisions to keep their defensive core intact. Real Madrid, keen to rejuvenate an aging back line, see Konate as a potential long-term partner for Eder Militao.
Weekly Big Game Updates
⚽ PSG 4-2 Man City: Dramatic Comeback Stuns the Visitors
Starting with an emphatic Champions League comeback for PSG, who overturned a 2-0 deficit to beat Manchester City 4-2. After Jack Grealish and Erling Haaland scored within minutes of each other early in the second half, PSG roared back with goals from Ousmane Dembele, Bradley Barcola, and Ruben Neves, before Goncalo Ramos sealed it in stoppage time. City’s away woes continue, while PSG’s hopes stay alive.
⚽ Real Madrid 5-1 Salzburg: Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr. On Fire
Another Champions League highlight was Real Madrid’s 5-1 victory over Salzburg, with Rodrygo firing home two goals in the first half. A fumble by Salzburg’s goalkeeper allowed Kylian Mbappe to extend the score, and Vinicius Junior added a brace—his first goal marking his 100th for the club. Though Salzburg managed a late consolation, Madrid’s passage into the knock-out rounds was never in doubt.
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