August 18, 2022
The brief from today:
Differential treatment at Metz
A strange situation recently unfolded in France when Metz defender, Boubacar Kouyate, received a four-day suspension from the club. Metz hosted Valenciennes this past weekend in round three of Ligue 2, but the Mali international was nowhere to be found despite being called up as part of the match day squad. The reason for his unreported absence, and subsequent suspension, is what has grabbed significant attention. Apparently Kouyate was incensed at Metz’s decision to sell Tunisian defender, and now former teammate, Dylan Bronn, to Salernitana, and as a result refused to show up for the game. The source of Kouyate’s frustration stems from the fact that Metz recently rejected an offer for him, also from Salernitana, despite that proposal being €7 million, compared to the to €1.2 million transfer accepted for Bronn. In addition to that, Kouyate was further angered with the denial because a move would’ve resulted in an astounding seven-fold increase to his current salary. Metz are said to be holding out for €10 million before Kouyate is allowed to leave, and now the player himself is also holding out from taking part in matches. He is currently attracting interest in Italy—in addition to Salernitana—from Cremonese and Hellas Verona, while Galatasaray and Burnley are also rumored to be considering bids. It seems to be just a matter of time before he departs with the current situation clearly untenable.
Kouyate (left) is ready to leave Metz, but the club are still waiting for higher offers
La Liga working to build African football
An announcement was made today confirming the partnership between Spain’s La Liga, and Zambian football club Zanaco. The objective of the deal is for La Liga to assist Zanaco by providing them insight on the sport that will aid in the growth of the club’s coaches. Some of the consulting work will begin in September where La Liga coaches will conduct physical training sessions—once every six months. Once these are completed, there will also be digital monitoring reviews, as well as a discussion covering the sporting and business side of the game. Zanaco is one of Zambia’s most successful club sides having won: 7 Super League trophies, 4 Charity Shields, 1 Coca Cola Cup, 1 Most Cup, and 3 BP Cups, so the appeal of such a project for La Liga is understandable. The partnership marks the third such agreement signed in Africa by La Liga, following similar deals with other successful teams including: Yanga SC of Tanzania, and Angolan side, Petro Atletico de Luanda. This push from the Spanish organization began in 2016, and is part of their vision to promote dialogue, as well as share intellectual property between various continents and leagues.
La Liga and Zanaco Football Club confirm their partnership