Shina Oludare

Elche, led by defender Bambo Diaby, is determined to prove their LaLiga return was no fluke by delivering strong performances in the 2025-26 season. Despite being labeled underdogs, the team remains motivated to compete against top clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid. Their unbeaten start showcases their readiness for the challenges ahead.

Former Cameroon AFCON-winning coach and legendary player Winfried Schafer sees potential for Borussia Monchengladbach to return as a top German team. Despite financial constraints and player departures, Schafer believes the club's tradition of developing young talent and exciting football can lead to a resurgence, emphasizing the importance of nurturing youth in the face of talent drain to bigger clubs. His love for the club endures, hoping it can reclaim its former glory.

RB Salzburg midfielder Frans Kratzig reflects on the team's experience at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, emphasizing the lessons learned and the importance of facing top-level opponents. Despite mixed results, Kratzig believes the tournament was crucial in the team's growth and preparation for the upcoming season. Looking ahead, RB Salzburg aims to bounce back stronger in the 2025-26 campaign.

Former Dortmund star Otto Addo is optimistic about the club’s future after a challenging 2024-25 season, urging star striker Guirassy to stay. Addo believes the team, who secured Champions League qualification, has the quality to improve and succeed next year.

Nigeria's Maduka Okoye hails Udinese’s improved 2024-25 season, credits coach Runjaic, and eyes Premier League return. Okoye praises Udinese's performance and his personal growth. Despite a successful season, he hasn't ruled out a return to England but is currently happy at Udinese.

Nigeria's Samuel Chukwueze criticizes AC Milan's disappointing 2024-25 season due to managerial changes. Despite transfer rumors, he is determined to stay and succeed in Serie A, inspired by the club's history. Chukwueze aims to make his mark and contribute to Milan's success in the future.

Despite Nantes' tough season, Moses Simon is content to stay but open to a move. The Nigerian international highlights his impressive performances and urges the club to sign experienced players. Paris FC has expressed interest in him, presenting a potential €12 million offer. Simon emphasizes the club's need for quality additions to regain its competitive position.

Mutiu Adepoju warns Real Madrid faces a tough challenge in the Champions League following a 3-0 loss to Arsenal. He discusses their La Liga title hopes, relying on Barcelona's form, and dismisses any crisis despite recent struggles. Madrid must score at least four goals against Arsenal to reach the semi-finals.

Rangers' Leon Balogun recognises team inconsistency as a major obstacle in their title challenge, despite success in Europa League. He believes significant improvement is needed to close the gap on leaders Celtic. Balogun remains hopeful of challenging for the title and is uncertain about how far Rangers can go in the Europa League.

Since joining Club Brugge, Raphael Onyedika has become a key player and is content at the club, despite interest from top European sides such as AC Milan, PSG, Bayern Munich, and Dortmund. The Nigerian midfielder is committed to helping his team achieve its objectives, including securing the Belgian league title and advancing in the Champions League.

Cote d'Ivoire coach praises Amad Diallo's performance at Manchester United, calling him vital to the team's success. Diallo's impressive form has been highlighted, with hopes he can join the ranks of Ivorian Premier League legends through dedication and continued success for club and country.

African football legend Yakubu praises David Moyes' return to Everton as a brilliant move, believing Moyes' passion and dedication will guide the Toffees back to success. Moyes' focus on rebuilding confidence and goal-scoring is seen as crucial for securing stability and restoring the club's glory days.

Angola's Zito Luvumbo remains confident in Cagliari's survival in Serie A despite a tough season start. The striker is determined to regain his scoring form to help the team avoid relegation. With recent improvements, Cagliari aims to climb out of the relegation zone.

David Hancko's optimism for Feyenoord's Champions League progression is fueled by their thrilling 3-3 draw with Manchester City. Hancko describes his goal as "special" and the result has revived Feyenoord's qualification hopes. The defender is focused on future matches to secure advancement, starting with hosting Sparta Prague in their next match.

Former Udinese midfielder Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu praises his ex-club’s strong Serie A start but emphasizes the difficulty of winning the title, highlighting their focus on youth development over trophies.

Ex-defender Juwon Oshaniwa highlights the vital roles of Craig Gordon and Lawrence Shankland in Hearts’ European run and backs Celtic to continue their Scottish league dominance.