by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 17, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
In what could be a sensational return, Atletico Madrid are reportedly preparing a summer move for Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey, as his Arsenal future remains uncertain.
The 31-year-old’s contract with the Gunners is set to expire at the end of the season, and with no renewal in sight, several European clubs have begun circling — with Atletico leading the charge.
According to reports from Spanish outlet Marca, Atletico are keen to bring Partey back to the Wanda Metropolitano, four years after he left for the Premier League. The Spanish giants are believed to be plotting a compelling offer that could see the Ghanaian become a central figure in Diego Simeone’s plans for next season.
Partey enjoyed a strong campaign with Arsenal, notching four goals in the Premier League and starring in their dramatic Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid. His consistent displays have reignited interest from his former club, who appear ready to welcome him back into the fold.
The midfielder’s departure in 2020 was marred by frustration from Atletico fans, as the club failed to meet his release clause before Arsenal swooped in. However, there is now optimism that Partey could follow in the footsteps of club legends like Antoine Griezmann and Filipe Luís, who returned to the Rojiblancos and thrived once more under Simeone.
If the deal materializes, it would not only mark a homecoming for Partey, but also provide Atletico with a proven, experienced figure to anchor their midfield next season.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 17, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
For English-born Ghanaian forward Charles Sagoe Jr, September 27, 2023, is a date forever etched in memory—a night when a childhood dream blossomed into reality.
The 20-year-old made his senior debut for Arsenal in a Carabao Cup clash against Brentford, a game the Gunners won 1-0. Reflecting on the moment, Sagoe Jr described it as “an incredible experience,” one that still fills him with pride and gratitude.
It all began unexpectedly during a routine training session. “The day before the game, I was in a first-team session when Fabio Vieira limped off injured. Mikel [Arteta] asked me to fill in at right wing,” Sagoe Jr recounted. “After training, he pulled me and Ben White aside to show me specific movements—how to receive the ball and make runs. I wasn’t sure if he was preparing me to play or just offering advice.”
Later that evening, everything changed. A WhatsApp message confirmed his place in the matchday squad. But the real shock came the next morning: “I walked into the team meeting and saw my name in the starting XI. My heart was racing—I couldn’t believe it.”
Sagoe Jr’s parents, originally from Ghana, were there in the stands of the Gtech Stadium, witnessing their son’s breakthrough. “Stepping onto the pitch was surreal. I grew up supporting Arsenal, so wearing that shirt was a dream come true. Sharing that moment with my family made it even more special.”
Since his debut, the promising forward has continued his development on loan at Swansea City and Shrewsbury Town, gaining valuable experience with hopes of more Premier League nights to come.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 17, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian forward Charles Sagoe Jr has set his sights on cementing a place in Arsenal’s first team, following a series of loan spells and a promising return to the club’s U21 setup.
The 20-year-old, who made his senior debut for the Gunners in 2023, spent time gaining experience with Swansea City and more recently Shrewsbury Town. Returning to North London in January 2025, Sagoe Jr has quickly reintegrated into the U21 squad competing in the Premier League 2, where he has already found the net once in four appearances.
Speaking to Arsenal’s official media, Sagoe Jr outlined both his short- and long-term ambitions.
“Now that I’m back with the under-21s, my goal for the rest of the season is to play as much as possible and contribute to the team. I want us to go on a deep play-off run in April and hopefully pick up some silverware,” he said.
But his aspirations don’t stop there. The talented striker is determined to prove himself, whether within the Arsenal setup or elsewhere on loan.
“From a long-term perspective, I want to establish myself – whether that’s out on loan or in a first-team environment – to get my name out there and show people what I can do. Wherever I play, I just want to score and assist as much as possible, improve my game, and help my team,” he added.
Sagoe Jr’s hunger and drive could soon make him a name to watch at the Emirates Stadium as he continues his journey toward becoming a regular in Mikel Arteta’s plans.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 16, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, International, Soccer
It was an ordinary night in Douala. Samuel Eto’o sat quietly at home, wrapped in his thoughts, when his phone rang. The number was unfamiliar, but something tugged at his heart — “Answer, Samuel.”
He picked up.
“Samu? You still got the same number from 2009?” came the voice, warm and unmistakable.
Eto’o chuckled. “Lionel?! Even if I changed my number a hundred times, you’d still be the first to know. But why are you calling at this hour? Finally ready to admit I’m better than you at pikey-pikey?”
They both laughed, just like old times. But then, Messi’s tone shifted.
“I’ve been watching what you do in Africa,” he said. “I’ve seen the light in children’s eyes when you visit. I want in. But my way.”
Eto’o paused. Messi? Speaking about Africa with such genuine passion? Before he could respond, Messi continued:
“I want to build schools and hospitals. Not in my name, but in the name of football — the game that brought us together.”
A week later, Messi flew into Yaoundé. No press. No cameras. Just two legends, walking dusty roads in a forgotten village, unnoticed but unforgettable.
There, they met a little girl named Ama. Her shoes were worn, her football even more so. She looked up at Messi with a grin and said, “You’re magical. But my ball doesn’t fly like yours.”
Messi’s eyes welled up.
He pulled out his phone and turned to Eto’o: “We’re building a playground. Every child here deserves to feel the magic. And we’ll teach them that true magic is giving without expecting anything back.”
From that day, Messi began a silent movement — a program called “10.” It brought football legends together to uplift Africa’s forgotten corners. The only rule? “No media. No noise. Just action.”
Eto’o knew then: Messi’s greatness wasn’t in his goals. It was in the quiet moments when no one watched — when he chose to touch lives rather than lift trophies.
“When people ask me what sets Messi apart,” Eto’o says today, “I tell them this — some live to love football. Messi lives to make football love people.”
Because Africa doesn’t need heroes on screens. It needs those who walk its earth and hold its children’s hands.
And Lionel Messi came down.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 16, 2025 | Africa, Soccer
The football world is mourning the tragic death of Gabonese international Aaron Boupendza, who has died at the age of 28. The talented striker, known for his flair and finishing, reportedly fell from the 11th floor of his apartment building in China.
Boupendza was currently playing for Zhejiang FC in the Chinese Super League and had quickly become a fan favorite. His untimely passing has shocked teammates, fans, and the international football community.
Chinese authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fall. Police say they are exploring three possible scenarios: suicide, accidental fall, or homicide. As of now, details remain unclear, and the investigation is ongoing.
Boupendza previously played in leagues across Europe and the Middle East, earning respect for his skill on the pitch and his contributions to the Gabon national team. His loss is a significant blow to African football and those who followed his career with admiration.
