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  • Lions Post-OTAs Defensive Depth Chart

    Lions Post-OTAs Defensive Depth Chart

     

    The Detroit Lions’ defense will have a new feel in 2025 under the direction of new coordinator Kelvin Sheppard.

     

    In his first season with the new title, Sheppard will be tasked with mixing and matching the right pieces on a defense that appears to have plenty of versatility. If he’s able to make the right moves, the defense could anchor a potential postseason run.

     

    Here’s an updated defensive depth chart prediction following the conclusion of the Lions’ OTAs.

     

    Nose tackle

    Starter: DJ Reader

    Backup: Roy Lopez

    Reserves: Tyleik Williams, Chris Smith, Brodric Martin.

     

    Reader will be the defensive anchor as long as he’s healthy, and Lopez provides very reliable veteran depth. For the rookie Williams, a rotational role on run-stuffing downs may be the baseline with the opportunity to earn more as he develops.

     

    Few players will have as much at stake as Martin does heading into training camp. The clock is ticking on his development, so it will be time for him to prove he has grown. Smith is a well-liked player who has been reliable in spot duty throughout his time with the organization.

     

    Defensive tackle

    Starter: Levi Onwuzurike

    Backup: Pat O’Connor

    Reserves: Mekhi Wingo, Myles Adams, Raequan Williams

    PUP: Alim McNeill

     

    Onwuzurike is the leader in the clubhouse to fill the void left by McNeill, who will return at some point in 2025. Exactly when he’s back remains to be seen, and as a result it will be important for players like Onwuzurike and O’Connor to step up.

     

    Wingo is an intriguing option, but he’s also coming off a knee injury suffered on Thanksgiving and could be a PUP candidate if he’s not ready at the start of training camp. Adams is back for another go after playing a small role last season, and Williams is an intriguing veteran.

     

    Defensive end (2)

    Starters: Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport

    Backups: Josh Paschal, Ahmed Hassanein

    Reserves: Al-Quadin Muhammad, Mitchell Agude, Isaac Ukwu, Nate Lynn, Keith Cooper Jr.

     

    Hutchinson and Davenport appear to be the lead pairing, with one of the biggest questions being whether Davenport can remain healthy and impactful. With Hutchinson, the Lions have one of the league’s best, and if they can find a reliable option opposite him they would benefit greatly.

     

    Paschal will be steady as a run defender, and anything he can provide as a pass-rusher would be a massive bonus. Hassanein is a player to keep an eye on, as he plays with a relentless motor and could rise into having a role earlier than expected as a result.

     

    Linebacker (3)

    Starters: Alex Anzalone, Jack Campbell, Derrick Barnes

    Backups: Grant Stuard, Zach Cunningham, Trevor Nowaske

    Reserves: Anthony Pittman, Ezekiel Turner, DaRon Gilbert

    PUP: Malcolm Rodriguez

     

    Anzalone was absent from OTAs, and could be for the start of training camp as well if a new deal is not reached. As a result, Jack Campbell could begin camp as the defensive play-caller. Regardless, the trio of those two and Barnes will be the lead group.

     

    Adding Cunningham to the mix is intriguing, as he was the NFL’s leader in tackles at his peak in 2020. Nowaske showed upside in his time amidst the team’s numerous injuries, while Pittman and Turner are strong special teamers. Rodriguez will provide a shot of life when he returns to the lineup.

     

     

     

    A big jump from Arnold in his second season would be a big boost for the secondary, and he has the tools to be a shutdown corner. Right now, the veteran Reed is the top option, but the hope is that Arnold will prove capable of handling the various tough matchups on Detroit’s schedule.

     

    Rakestraw has had another strong spring, and could put himself into a competition for a big role if Arnold doesn’t demonstrate the desired growth. Dorsey will likely assume his role as a gunner and can play in spot duty. Ya-Sin has plenty of experience and Thomas-Oliver was a late-season practice squad addition who will get a chance to show the coaches what he can do with a full offseason.

     

     

     

    Before moving to the boundary out of necessity due to injuries last season, Robertson emerged as a reliable player at the nickel position. He handles the nuances of the position well, and his physicality and demeanor fits Detroit’s culture.

     

    Maddox is a savvy veteran with experience playing all over the secondary, and as a result will be an asset for the defense. Ya-Sin also is a veteran playing in the slot, but his production has dipped over the last several seasons and as a result will need to earn his spot.

     

     

    Reserves: Loren Strickland, Morice Norris, Ian Kennelly, Erick Hallett

     

    The Lions have one of the best safety duos in the entire league, with Joseph and Branch both serving as dynamic talents who can hold down the back-end of the defense. Joseph was an All-Pro last season, and Branch could also challenge for that level of honor in 2025.

     

    Maddox’s versatility will be extremely helpful, and he is the top backup option behind the two standouts. Jackson has the leg-up in the competition for the fourth and potentially final spot at this position, but Strickland and Norris each tasted opportunities last year, and Kennelly’s athleticism caught the eye of the coaching staff during the pre-draft process.

  • Bayern Munich offer counterparts for Leao operation in vain amid salary dilemma – SempreMilan

    Bayern Munich offer counterparts for Leao operation in vain amid salary dilemma – SempreMilan

     

     

     

     

    Bayern Munich are serious in their pursuit of Rafael Leao, while AC Milan are hesitant to let go of their No.10 this summer. Nevertheless, as highlighted by a report, the situation could always change with a big offer.

     

    As reported by Gazzetta dello Sport this morning (see photo at the bottom), while Leao’s situation remains complicated as always, there are three certainties. First of all, Milan want to keep him, with Igli Tare and Max Allegri convinced that they can make the most of his talent.

     

    Secondly, there is a very hefty €175m release clause in Leao’s contract, and it’s clear that no club will pay that kind of money for the winger. Finally, Bayern Munich have expressed a concrete interest and could change everything with a high offer, having also attracted Leao’s attention.

     

    Milan keen on keeping Leao

    Above all, it will have to be understood what the Milan management considers to be an irrefutable offer. Leao earns €7m per season including bonuses and he would earn even more at Bayern, seeing as much of the big get above €8m per year at the club.

     

    Milan, on the other hand, has no need to sell their No.10. Tijjani Reijnders has confirmed his move to Manchester City, Mike Maignan is one step away from Chelsea and Theo Hernandez has one foot out the door, despite the rejected Al-Hilal approach.

     

     

     

    If the problem was initially cash, that is no longer the case thanks to those sales. Leao could thus remain at the club without any problems and this is something that both Allegri and Tare have stressed. They see the winger as a focal point for the project.

     

    The club, on the other hand, has no need to sell. Reijnders is essentially from City, Maignan close to Chelsea, Theo Hernandez has rejected Al Hilal but remains with one foot out of Milanello. If the problem was to cash in, the solution has been found. The challenge with Leao would be different: Allegri and Tare want to keep him to give him new motivation.

     

    Counterpart solution not without issues

    Bayern Munich’s interest is concrete and it’s possible that this could change the situation. It doesn’t depend on the Club World Cup either, with the Germans willing to welcome him in July instead. The bigger question is whether they can get close to Milan’s asking price with a counterpart.

     

    Some key candidates have emerged in that sense: Kim Min-jae, Kingsley Coman, Bryan Zaragoza, Joao Palhinha and Leon Goretzka. These are some very notable names, it goes without saying, but the path to all of them is not downhill.

     

    Min-jae, for example, has a very high salary of around €9m per season and this is far too much for Milan. The same argument can be applied to Coman, Goretzka and Palhinha, with the youngster Zarahoza the only one with a reasonable salary.

     

    In short, even with a counterpart involved, some negotiation skills would be needed to convince the player to l

     

  • Thompson and Broadbell shine at Racers Grand Prix

    Thompson and Broadbell shine at Racers Grand Prix

     

     

    Olympic silver medallist Kishane Thompson produced an emphatic run to win the men’s 100m in 9.88 (0.0m/s) at the Racers Grand Prix, a World Athletics Continental Tour Silver meeting, in Kingston, Jamaica, on Saturday (7).

     

    Thompson, drawn in lane four, reacted quickly to the starter’s gun and pulled away from the field at the midway mark. His compatriot Oblique Seville finished with a flourish to clinch second place in a season’s best of 9.97 ahead of the South African pair of Gift Leotlela (10.04) and world U20 champion Bayanda Walaza (10.06).

     

    “Today, I put together a decent race,” said Thompson, who registered a season’s best. “I went through my phases as best as I could, and I’m super grateful for finishing injury-free. I want everyone to be patient because great things are going to happen.”

     

    Seville, last year’s winner, was also satisfied with his performance. “I am pleased with dipping under 10 seconds because I had to run conservatively due to a niggle that I picked up in the Atlanta City Games,” he said. “Tonight’s run has given me the confidence that I will do well at the national senior championships in three weeks’ time.”

     

    In the women’s equivalent, two-time world U20 champion Tina Clayton ran a season’s best of 10.98 (1.8m/s) to defeat USA’s Jacious Sears (11.04).

     

    In the men’s 110m hurdles, Olympic bronze medallist Rasheed Broadbell defeated the red-hot US athlete Trey Cunningham in a tight contest – 13.06 to 13.08 (0.7m/s). It was Broadbell’s third win against Cunningham in five finals.

     

    “Each time I compete, I get better and better. Tonight, my execution was clean, my aim was to be in front after the first six hurdles, and once I achieve that, I will not be caught,” said Broadbell, who set a meeting record.

     

    USA’s Alia Armstrong clocked 12.54 (1.1m/s) to equal the meeting record in the women’s 100m hurdles. Following in Armstrong’s wake was world indoor champion Devynne Charlton of The Bahamas in a season’s best of 12.65.

     

    The men’s 200m was one of the most highly anticipated events on the night, and it almost lived up to its billing. Jamaican champion Bryan Levell solidified his growing reputation with a scintillating run, bursting the tape at 19.79. However, the celebrations from the 15,000 spectators were muted when the wind reading of 2.5m/s appeared on the scoreboard. Levell’s compatriot Christopher Taylor, returning from a two-year suspension, came through for second place in 20.39.

     

    World champion Shericka Jackson won the women’s 200m in a season’s best of 22.53 (1.0m/s).

     

    Returning from a serious-looking injury suffered a month ago at the Miami Grand Slam Track meeting, Jamaica’s Roshawn Clarke showed no signs of discomfort as he triumphed in the 400m hurdles in 48.65. The world U20 record-holder had to withstand a late surge in the home straight from his compatriot Assinie Wilson, who clocked 48.77.

     

    USA’s world indoor champion Christopher Bailey continued his love affair with Jamaica’s stadium track, winning the 400m in 44.74. Bailey dragged Jamaica’s Delano Kennedy to a 45.22 PB.

     

    “I felt a little sloppier than normal at the start, but I knew I could rely on my finish. I have a great finish, and I was happy to go sub-45 here again,” said Bailey, who opened his outdoor season in Kingston in April with an impressive 44.34 clocking. His compatriot Lynna Irby-Jackson made it a US sweep of the 400m when she ran a season’s best of 50.23 to deny Jamaica’s Stacy-Ann Williams (50.56).

     

    Elsewhere, world and Olympic silver medallist Wayne Pinnock scored his first long jump win of the year, cutting the sand at 7.97m in the third round.

     

     

  • GdS: Theo Informs Milan of Desire to Leave – Price Set with Agent Given Mandate”

    GdS: Theo Informs Milan of Desire to Leave – Price Set with Agent Given Mandate”

     

    AC Milan’s dynamic left-back, Theo Hernández, has reportedly informed the club of his desire to leave this summer, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport. The French international, who has been a vital figure in Milan’s recent successes, now looks set to explore a new chapter in his career, prompting the Rossoneri hierarchy to begin preparing for a potential departure.

    Theo, who joined Milan from Real Madrid in 2019, has grown into one of the best full-backs in Europe, known for his blistering pace, attacking flair, and physical dominance. His contributions have been instrumental in Milan’s resurgence in Serie A and their return to the UEFA Champions League spotlight. However, after five seasons in red and black, it appears the 26-year-old feels the time is right for a new challenge.

    According to GdS, Hernández has made his intentions clear to the club, and his agent has now been formally mandated to explore options on the market. Milan, understanding the realities of modern football, have not stood in his way. Instead, they have set a valuation believed to be in the region of €60–70 million, a fee that reflects his quality, experience, and importance to the team.

    Several top European clubs are already monitoring the situation. Real Madrid, where Theo began his senior career, could be interested in bringing him back as a long-term replacement for Ferland Mendy. Similarly, Bayern Munich and Manchester United have both been linked in recent months, each looking to reinforce their full-back options with a player of Hernández’s caliber.

    Milan’s stance is pragmatic. While they would prefer to keep Theo, they are aware of the financial benefits a sale of this magnitude could bring. The funds could be reinvested into multiple areas of the squad, particularly with a new head coach set to arrive and potential rebuild plans underway. Paolo Maldini, who had a key role in signing Theo and nurturing his development, is no longer at the club, and his absence may also be a factor in the player’s decision to move on.

    Should the departure materialize, it would be a significant blow to Milan, both on and off the pitch. Theo’s personality, leadership, and attacking influence are hard to replace. However, Milan have shown in the past that they are capable of bouncing back from key exits, as seen with Donnarumma and Kessié.

    The coming weeks will be crucial. If a suitable offer arrives and personal terms can be agreed, Theo Hernández could be one of the headline moves of the summer transfer window. For Milan, the challenge will be not only to replace him but also to reaffirm their ambitions as a top European club amid evolving dynamics.

    Until then, fans will anxiously await clarity, knowing that the potential exit of one of their most beloved stars could mark the end of an era—and the start of a new one.

     

  • Legal, Yes — But Is It Fair? The Start Line Technicality Changing Sprinting Forever

    Legal, Yes — But Is It Fair? The Start Line Technicality Changing Sprinting Forever

     

    In the high-stakes world of elite sprinting, the difference between gold and obscurity is measured in hundredths of a second. So when a subtle yet legal technique begins to redefine what’s possible at the start line, it forces us to ask a deeper question: is it fair?

     

    This controversy revolves around a new interpretation of how sprinters position themselves on the blocks. Traditionally, athletes are expected to maintain a still, balanced posture before reacting to the starting gun.

     

    But some sprinters — taking full advantage of biomechanical precision and a gray area in the rulebook — are using micro-adjustments and pre-launch tension loading to trigger explosive starts. The results are undeniably effective. These athletes aren’t jumping the gun, but they’re bending the definition of a “reaction.”

     

    The technique involves an intentional loading of the hamstrings and calf muscles, creating a barely perceptible shift in body weight just milliseconds before the gun fires. This allows a more forceful and immediate push-off — all within the legal reaction time threshold of 0.1 seconds. Critics argue this borders on a false start disguised by science; proponents say it’s the evolution of athletic performance.

     

    World Athletics, the sport’s governing body, has yet to classify this movement as illegal. And why would they? There’s no specific rule that prohibits pre-tensioning, as long as the athlete doesn’t move before the gun. However, this tactic gives a distinct advantage to those who have both the coaching sophistication and technological support to master it. It’s a loophole — a legal one — but potentially an unfair one.

     

    The controversy mirrors similar debates in other sports. Think of the super suits in swimming, which shattered records before being banned. Or the carbon-fiber shoes in distance running, which revolutionized marathon times. In each case, the innovation was within the rules — until it wasn’t. Sprinting now finds itself at a similar crossroads.

     

    More troubling is the equity issue. Wealthier nations with access to cutting-edge sports science can train athletes to exploit this start-line gray area. Meanwhile, competitors from less-funded programs may never even be aware of the biomechanical edge they’re missing, let alone train for it. The playing field becomes skewed — not because one athlete is more talented, but because one athlete is better resourced.

     

    Athletes have always sought every possible edge. That pursuit is part of what makes sports great. But when a legal advantage begins to erode the principle of fair competition, the sport must reassess. Sprinting is meant to test raw reaction, power, and speed — not who can most precisely manipulate technical ambiguities.

     

    World Athletics faces a difficult choice. Do they let the innovation stand and risk compromising the spirit of equal competition? Or do they step in and clarify the rules, even at the cost of stifling performance evolution?

     

    One thing is clear: the future of sprinting will be shaped not only by who crosses the line first, but by how they left the blocks. And in that instant between stillness and motion, fairness may hang in the balance.

     

     

  • Sky Germany: ‘Desire to leave’ – Leao tells Milan of exit wish as Bayern Munich loom

    Sky Germany: ‘Desire to leave’ – Leao tells Milan of exit wish as Bayern Munich loom

     

     

    Big news has arrived this afternoon, as Rafael Leao has told AC Milan that he wants to leave, which is massive.

     

    It seemed that Leao was going to be one of the only big players to stay this summer. However, it seems this may no longer be the case. Massimiliano Allegri has assured the Portuguese of his hopes to make him a central part of his project, however, it may not be enough.

     

     

    In fact, it seems it will not be enough, as Sky Germany, via Calciomercato.com, reports that the winger has told Milan that he wants to leave the club this summer. The interest has emerged and become serious very quickly, with the two parties in discussions.

     

    This morning, reports suggested that Bayern had offered a cash plus player proposal to the Rossoneri, but no official offers have been prepared just yet, as this afternoon’s update states.

     

    At least €70 million will be required for the player to leave, without considering things like bonuses or options to further raise the price. So it will be interesting to see if the Bavarian club are willing to cough up that much upfront.

     

    Almost all of the key players from the Scudetto win are now market-bound, it seems, what a turn of events.

  • Racers Grand Prix: Shericka Jackson Wins 200m in Season’s Best

    Racers Grand Prix: Shericka Jackson Wins 200m in Season’s Best

     

    Jamaican sprint sensation Shericka Jackson lit up the track at the 2025 Racers Grand Prix, delivering a powerful performance in the women’s 200 meters to clinch victory with a season’s best time. The highly anticipated event, held at the National Stadium in Kingston, was a thrilling showcase of athletic talent, but it was Jackson who stole the show with her smooth, dominant run.

     

    Clocking an impressive 21.78 seconds, Jackson reaffirmed her position as one of the world’s top sprinters. Her time not only marked a season’s best but also stood out as one of the fastest 200m runs globally so far this year. It was a significant statement as athletes continue to prepare for the upcoming World Championships in Tokyo.

     

    From the moment the gun went off, Jackson took control of the race. Exploding out of the blocks and navigating the curve with trademark efficiency, she transitioned into the straight with a clear lead. Her stride remained composed and powerful, and there was no sign of her slowing down. The crowd, fully aware of her world-class capabilities, roared as she crossed the finish line well ahead of her competitors.

     

    This victory carries extra weight for Jackson, who has been steadily building momentum throughout the 2025 season. After a strong showing in earlier Diamond League meets, her performance in Kingston confirms she is peaking at just the right time. Known for her incredible versatility across the 100m and 200m distances, Jackson continues to grow into her role as the torchbearer of Jamaican sprinting in the post-Usain Bolt era.

     

    Speaking after the race, Jackson said, “It’s always a great feeling to run at home in front of Jamaican fans. Tonight was about execution and testing where I am in my training. I’m happy with the time, and I know there’s more to come.” Her comments reflect a growing confidence and focus as she eyes a major title later this year.

     

    The Racers Grand Prix has long been a cornerstone of Jamaica’s athletics calendar, and the 2025 edition lived up to expectations. In addition to Jackson’s standout performance, the meet featured a strong lineup of local and international athletes, making it a valuable mid-season test ahead of global competition.

     

    Fans were especially thrilled to witness Jackson’s race in person, a reminder of how electrifying live athletics can be. Her win also highlighted Jamaica’s continued dominance in sprinting, especially in the women’s ranks, where athletes like Jackson, Elaine Thompson-Herah, and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce have consistently delivered on the world stage.

     

    As the season progresses, Shericka Jackson’s performance in Kingston sends a clear message: she is not just a contender—she is a favorite. With the World Championships looming, her rivals will be taking serious note of her form. If her 21.78-second statement at the Racers Grand Prix is anything to go by, Jackson is ready to claim the top of the podium.

     

  • Cardinals sign intriguing starter with strong connection to new front office regime

    Cardinals sign intriguing starter with strong connection to new front office regime

     

    The St. Louis Cardinals’ starting pitching depth is razor thin at the moment, but their recent signing of former Cleveland Guardians starter Zach Plesac should help ease some of those concerns.

     

    The Cardinals announced the signing of Plesac Friday afternoon, who most fans would recognize from his early career success with the Guardians but has struggled to maintain a rotation spot at the big league level in recent years.

     

    Before you get upset about the Cardinals signing another starter who has struggled in recent years mid-season, I hate to break it to you, but that’s the only way that a player like that is available right now.

     

    Zach Plesac has connections with new Cardinals’ front office members and gives them much needed depth

    Plesac, now 30, debuted with the Guardians back in 2019 and posted a 3.81 ERA in 21 starts for the club and followed that up with an awesome 2020 season, where his ERA dropped to 2.28 in the eight starts he made in the COVID-shortened season. He looked like he was going to be a member of their rotation for many years.

     

    While 2021 and 2022 weren’t flashy by any means, Plesac made 49 starts and one relief appearance, posting a 4.49 ERA and covering 274.1 innings of work for Cleveland. His 4.59 FIP was right in line with his actual numbers, and he maintained most of his success by avoiding walks and allowing soft contact. Sound familiar?

     

    While his makeup is not exciting by any means, as a potential depth starter for the Cardinals the rest of this season, that’s a really intriguing find by the front office, who one of their newest members has a strong connection with Plesac.

     

    Rob Cerfolio, who is the Cardinals’ new assistant general manager, player development and performance, came over from the Guardians after working with the organization for the last decade, most recently overseeing their player development organizationally.

     

    Cerfolio’s role has him being pretty hands-on with all levels of the organization, so he would have worked with Plesac throughout his time with the Guardians. Larry Day, the Cardinals’ new director of player development, also spent time with Plesac in Cleveland.

     

    Plesac has really struggled in recent years, as the Guardians let go of him after five terrible starts in 2023, and he only made three starts with the Los Angeles Angels in 2024 to the tune of an 8.25 ERA. Plesac signed on with the Long Island Ducks, an Atlantic League Baseball team, back in April and posted a 2.84 ERA while striking out almost eight batters per nine innings.

     

    Plesac’s pedigree as a starter and big league experience make him an ideal fit as a depth option for St. Louis right now.

    While the big league rotation has remained healthy this year, outside of Michael McGreevy in Memphis, there isn’t much the Cardinals can turn to if they need innings. Quinn Mathews and Tink Hence have missed significant time due to injuries this year, Tekoah Roby is still in Double-A, and guys like Cooper Hjerpe, Sem Robberse, Brian Holiday, and other pitching prospects are done for the year.

     

    While the Cardinals probably don’t hope they have to turn to Plesac, he is an option that they can go to if needed and not feel like they are rushing an arm or instantly giving up a game.

     

    This is the second depth signing the Cardinals have made this week, as the club brought in left-handed reliever Tyler Matzek on a minor league deal as well to shore up their bullpen options. Both are expected to report to Memphis and try and work their way into options for the big league club at some point this year.

     

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  • Biggest reasons to be confident in the 2025 Detroit Lions

    Biggest reasons to be confident in the 2025 Detroit Lions

     

    It’s been a tough week for Detroit Lions fans. With many already predicting the downfall of the team simply due to the loss of both offensive and defensive coordinators, the retirement of Frank Ragnow only adds another arrow to the quiver of doubters. It’s a massive loss, no doubt, and one Detroit now has months to try and recover from.

     

    But let’s not spend all week mourning the loss of Detroit’s center. There are still plenty of good things to anticipate for the Detroit Lions’ 2025 season because this still remains one of the best rosters we’ve seen in this city in some time.

     

    So today’s Question of the Day is:

     

    What is the biggest reason to remain optimistic about the 2025 Detroit Lions?

    My answer: The massive amount of blue-chip talent still on this team. Earlier this week, our own John Whiticar asked how much top-end talent the Lions have, and he concluded nine players. While that prediction dropped just hours before Ragnow reduced the list to eight, the following players remain on the team: Penei Sewell, Jahmyr Gibbs, Sam LaPorta, Amon-Ra St.

     

    Brown, Aidan Hutchinson, Alim McNeill, Kerby Joseph, and Brian Branch. And that doesn’t even include some potential up-and-coming players, particularly on defense. Can Tyleik Williams make his way into the conversation? What about Terrion Arnold? And don’t forget a pretty deep foundation of role players who have proven to be solid contributors. I’m talking players like Kalif Raymond, David Montgomery, Alex Anzalone, D.J. Reed, DJ Reader, Tim Patrick, Taylor Decker, Derrick Barnes, Jack Campbell, Amik Robertson—and a quarterback and special teams unit that has become very reliable.

     

    Losing Ragnow is a massive loss. There is no getting around that. But this team has always been about much more than any single player. They’ll be just fine.

     

    Why are you confident about the Lions going forward? Share your answer in the comment section.

  • Why Crystal Palace may miss Europa League despite qualification – The Nation Newspaper

    Why Crystal Palace may miss Europa League despite qualification – The Nation Newspaper

     

     

    English Premier League club Crystal Palace qualified for the Europa League after beating Manchester City in the FA Cup final but the historic achievement is under threat due to UEFA’s multi-club ownership regulations.

     

    UEFA prohibits individuals from holding influence over multiple clubs participating in its competitions simultaneously. This rule aims to maintain the integrity of European tournaments by preventing conflicts of interest.

     

    Two major shareholders of Crystal Palace are at the centeyr of this issue:

     

    John Textor: Holds a 45% stake in Crystal Palace and is the majority owner of Olympique Lyonnais, a French club that also qualified for the Europa League.

     

    David Blitzer: Owns an 18% share in Crystal Palace and has significant holdings in Brøndby IF, a Danish club set to compete in the Europa Conference League.

     

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    The simultaneous qualification of these clubs for European competitions has triggered UEFA’s scrutiny.

     

    In an attempt to comply with UEFA regulations, Textor and Blitzer proposed transferring their shares in Crystal Palace to a blind trust, a strategy previously accepted by UEFA in similar situations.