The Euros and another premature English exit from a major tournament have dominated the headlines in recent days, but believe it or not, there was life before Euro 2016 and it’ll continue once the tournament finishes. Let’s have a look at a few things that have been glossed over in the news in recent days.
Sadio Mané
Jurgen Klopp has revisited Liverpool’s recent feeder club Southampton for his first major transfer as manager of the Reds. They’ve paid £34 million for the Senegalese forward and he’s their second most expensive signing after Andy Carroll.
Sofiane Feghouli
West Ham signed the Algerian winger on a free transfer from Valencia just over a fortnight ago, and he’s Slaven Bilic’s second signing of the summer after Harvard Nordtveit. The Hammers are still after a top class striker and they’ve been linked with pretty much anyone who’s ever scored a goal.
Lionel Messi
The Argentine striker retired from international duty after losing in the Copa America final to Chile on penalties. It was the third major final loss for Messi in an Argentina shirt, and this one looks to be the final straw for him. At the age of 29, it’s not unthinkable that he could change his mind and appear at the 2018 World Cup.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAOybRttU2Y
The Rio Olympics
The Rio Olympics are set to take place later on this summer, but the Zika virus is causing havoc for athletes. Rory McIlroy and Jason Day are the latest big names to pull out, adding to an already rather lengthy list.
Wimbledon
Wimbledon is underway and as is tradition, the tournament has already been hampered by rain and poor conditions.
Hulk
The Brazilian footballer with no outstanding attributes apart from being built like a brick wall has moved from Zenit to Shanghai SIPG for £48 million. At 29 years old, this looks set to be the end of his career and it’s unlikely that any side in Europe will be able to match the wages that he’s now on.
Ronald Koeman
Koeman has been named as Everton’s new manager and his first job will be to keep John Stones and Romelu Lukaku at the club.
Nathan Redmond
The Norwich City winger made a £10 million move to Southampton and looks set to be Mane’s replacement. He’s represented England at every youth level and after the Euros disaster, could well be due a call up to the senior squad if he performs well.
England Rugby
The England rugby team claimed a 3-0 test whitewash over Australia in their summer tour. Eddie Jones is still yet to lose a game as England coach. Their performances make the England football team even more of an embarrassment.
Michy Batshuayi
Earlier in the week, someone at Crystal Palace thought of a very high number, stuck a pound sign in front of it and offered it to Marseille. Chelsea have since squashed this with a £33 million bid and Batshuayi looks set to be playing at Stamford Bridge next season.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
After a disappointing Euro 2016, the Swedish striker is set to complete his “100% definitely will happen” move to Manchester United and reunite with Jose Mourinho. The home dressing room at Old Trafford is set for an extension in order to house two giant egos.