Juventus Posts A Year Of 199.2 Million Euros Loss
Italian football team Juventus posted yet another disappointing year in the books with a loss of 199.2 million euros for the last 12 months that ended in June. That makes the club’s fifth successive annual loss. Still, it says it is on the way to recovery and will break even at the operating level this financial year. Loss Linked To European Ban Revenue for the 2023/24 fiscal year declined by 22% to 395 million euros primarily because of the disqualification from European competitions owing to accounting issues. In comparison to last year’s returns, at 124 million euros, the loss is an increase of 271 million euros. Shareholders cautioned to strengthen the finances. Being quoted on the Milan Stock Exchange and controlled by the Agnelli family for over a century, the club has had no other option but to go to shareholders for capital support. For three consecutive years from 2008 to 2011, Juventus managed to raise about 900 million euros through separate cash calls operations so as to strength balance sheet. To Be Continued: Champions League and Cost Cutting Forward-looking, the club is banking on a return to the Champions League and cost-cutting measures taken recently to strengthen financials. “Operating result and cash flow are expected to break even during the financial year 2024/2025,” said the club, terming these two as the prime reasons behind the improvement. Target Net Profit 2026-27 The Turin-based club, according to the business plan approved last year, is looking to regain net profitability by 2026-27. The club last saw net profit during the 2016-17 season. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Concussion Concerns Rising Among Young Athletes
As youth sports get more competitive, we’re seeing a surge in elbow and shoulder injuries, particularly among pint-sized pitchers. The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL)-the superhero of elbow stability-is sporting some serious battle scars, leaving countless young athletes whining in pain. Most of these are overuse and with kids playing more than a game of hot potato, experts raise an alarm call regarding a potential epidemic in the making! Concussion: The Sneaky Villain in Sport Just when you thought the injuries were over, comes the sneaky culprit: concussions. Coaches, trainers and physicians are taking on the role of sleuths, conducting very thorough sideline investigations. They look for clues by symptom checklists and memory games as well as neurological exams to determine whether or not the player has taken one too many hits to the head. Dizziness, headaches and an uncanny ability to forget your favorite pizza topping can all signal trouble. When to Get Back in the Game? The million-dollar question all young athletes want an answer to – when can I play again? Return to play is only safe if all symptoms have resolved and if a qualified healthcare provider clears you for play. Only when an athlete is asymptomatic and has had an opportunity for evaluation by a health care provider should they be allowed to return to play. Neurocognitive testing often is compared with baseline results to determine whether the brain is safe to resume physical activity. Experts note that even though symptoms may recede, the brain is not necessarily healed, so comprehensive evaluation is necessary to avoid further damage. Both elbow injuries and concussions raise just-needed attention to injury prevention and proper recovery protocols in youth sports. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Ter Stegen Tumbles: Surgery Awaits Barcelona’s Safe Hands
It does not happen very often that one has seen goalkeeper stretches off the field. However, Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen had such a day that would be erased from the memories when his side thrashed Villarreal 5-1. During the 44th minute, the German shot-stopper went all Superman by leaping to catch a corner kick-and landed like Clark Kent after a rough day. Result: he ended up with a nasty knee injury straight to the surgery table. Ouch. What’s the latest from ter Stegen’s knee? Well, to just say the least: he snapped a tendon. Envision the patellar or quadriceps tendons as the ropes holding your knee together. Snap one of them and your knee is as useful as a door without hinges. The tears usually happen due to awkward landing, and ter Stegen was the poster child for such. Months of Rehab Ahead Now the not-so-good news: surgery’s on the menu for ter Stegen and it’ll be a long haul, folks. Not weeks, but months. So, here’s some good news for Barcelona’s fans- they can get snug with Peña, because he’s going to be holding the fort for some time. Here’s hoping he’s up for the task. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Nutrition Trend At ISL 2024
The Indian Super League (ISL) has clearly transformed Indian football since its launch back in 2014. For ISL players to give their very best, top physical and mental well-being would be the need of the hour. Nutrition comes in as an important aspect of this requirement. Football is quite rigorous and ISL footballers are on specific nutrition plans that ensure they are fit, recover faster, and give their best on the football field. So, let’s look at the key nutrition trends for ISL footballers in 2024:. Protein: The Muscle Repair Tool Proteins help in repairing and rebuilding the muscles- a fundamental need in the body, especially true for the ISL players who bring their bodies under a tough test. Good quality protein from food or supplements allows your body to recover fast and keeps your body strong throughout the season. Carbohydrates: The Main Energy Source Carbs provide the energy players need for tough training and matches. They fuel the body with glucose, making it impossible for footballers to get winded in the field. Adequate carbs to back it up: the magic formula for replenishment of energy. BCAAs: Rapid Recovery Recovery is always in a hurry. With such a jam-packed schedule, this treatment helps prevent breakdown, which causes muscle soreness. Therefore, faster recovery is the goal of an ISL player to deliver well. Healthy Fats: Energy and Nutrient Absorption Dietary fats must be taken wisely. Healthy fats such as omega-3 and monounsaturated fats help players absorb nutrients while giving sustained energy to keep them in action until the next meal. Hydration: Stay Energized and Focused Since India is a hot region, Indian footballers should always keep themselves hydrated. Dehydration could cause cramps and fatigue and thus, electrolyte drinks would give ISL players easy ways of regaining fluids lost in games and practice. Conclusion: Right Nutrition for Success With the best competition at hand, ISL players need the best nutrition to successfully compete. Following global trends, teams are thus better equipping themselves for the game and, at the same time, their playing position on the field. Proper nutrition is indeed a force toward attaining new heights in Indian football. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
ISL 2024: Jamshedpur FC vs Mumbai City FC: What To Expect
Defending Indian Super League (ISL) champions, Mumbai City FC will visit the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur to play Jamshedpur FC in Jamshedpur’s first home game of the season on Saturday. After a closely contested battle, The Men of Steel emerged 2-1 winners against FC Goa, where Jordan Murray’s stoppage-time winner came in after Javi Siverio’s successful penalty had kept them in the contest. However, head coach Khalid Jamil has asked his team to remain grounded and focused ahead of the crucial clash. Defensive Focus And Key Challenges For Jamshedpur Jamshedpur FC have been on the back foot for most of the games played so far, whereas their defensiveness in that previous match was evident. Goalkeeper, Albino Gomes will have to be much more effective and cannot afford to give up a soft goal like he did at Fatorda. For Jamshedpur’s Jamil, who also coached NorthEast United FC earlier, has an upper hand against the Mumbai City over his last five games – with just one defeat – he will be keen not to allow that to change at the Furnace. Mumbai City FC Seeks First Win Mumbai City FC, however, head into this game riding on the crest of a pulsating 2-2 draw against Mohun Bagan Super Giant. The Islanders did show some remarkable performance when they came back from being two goals down in the first half of play to garner the point. Under head coach Petr Kratky, the Islanders would seek their first win of the season as the players eye something that came close for them last season. Thrilling Battle Anticipated at the Furnace Jamshedpur would love to continue their winning spree while Mumbai City is eager to end their losing run. The stage is well set for an exciting encounter in Jamshedpur as the two teams would approach the game with caution, however would certainly be full of attacking flair throughout the game. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
ISL 2024-25: Team Strengths, Concerns And Key Players – Part 2
The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season is back and better than ever! Mark September 13th, 2024 as the grand return of the tournament, hailed as a spectacle of footballing fireworks. We are set for a rollercoaster of thrilling matches with rivalries that are destined to run hot. Here’s part 2 of the team previews at the ISL 2024-25 season. Punjab FC Imagine a team which reached the Durand Cup quarters with the zeal of a lion’s cub, in the hands of a coach who probably dreams in ancient Greek-the Greek maestro Panagiotis Dilmperis-managed Punjab FC saga. Luka Majcen, last season’s goal machine, will again be hunting for goals, however with the squad’s firepower looking like a damp squib, do not be surprised if they turn out to be the league’s underdogs. East Bengal Cue the dramatic music, as East Bengal is back for revenge, with Carles Cuadrat’s watchful eyes guiding the charge for glory, aided by none other than Golden Boot-wielding Dimitrios Diamantakos. But hang on-what’s this? Anwar Ali’s four-month ban is the ultimate cliffhanger this season. Will East Bengal’s defense fall apart like a deck of cards, or can they avoid the drama and make their way into the playoffs? Stay tuned! Bengaluru FC The Bengaluru FC makeover is the stuff of football fairy tales. In come Jorge Pereyra Diaz and Rahul Bheke, the new knights in shining armor. With the squad resembling it has just come off the sets of some sci-fi reboot, the big question remains as to whether Diaz-Sunil Chhetri can shape this attacking woes into an epic comeback. Playoffs? Maybe. ISL Shield? That’s the stuff of legends. Jamshedpur FC Meet the coach, Khalid Jamil, the football version of Jack, who conjured magic with a handful of beans! With Javi Hernandez in their lineup, Jamshedpur FC’s season is going to be quite an adventure. But beware-the squad depth looks as deep as a puddle of water during the monsoon season. They will be fighting tooth and nail for that playoff spot, but will their charm and tenaciousness be good enough to see them on top? Hyderabad FC The season of Hyderabad FC is shaping up to be a high-stakes drama with new faces such as Saviour Gama and Devendra Murgaonkar. This squad still appears to be finding its lines and choreography and making it into the playoffs may be like winning a wild card entry on some game show. However, of course, each blockbuster has an underdog story. Mohammedan SC Mohammedan SC are in for a rollercoaster ride under the stewardship of Andrey Chernyshov. With a squad that has undergone a bit of reconstruction, they hope to avoid the dreaded basement position. Will they turn out to be the dark horse or become casualties of the storm this season? We will get to know about it soon. Season’s Verdict: Brace for Impact As the second set of the ISL 2024-25 team previews have arrived-new dramas and thrills are going to run riot this season. With just a few new faces in the coaching box and some of India’s most storied clubs coming into the fray, each of these teams brings its own unique mix of strengths, weaknesses and star players. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
ISL 2024-25: Team Strengths, Concerns And Key Players – Part 1
The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season is here and it’s already looking crazier than a last-minute VAR call. The teams are locked in and the fans are ready to back them. Here’s part 1 of the team previews at the ISL 2024-25 season. Mohun Bagan Super Giant Once again, they are the Goliaths everyone wants to topple. The new mastermind behind their charge? None other than Jose Molina, the coach who already has an ISL crown on his CV. With a dream team featuring dynamo Dimi Petratos and the ever-dangerous Greg Stewart, Mohun Bagan look primed to run the show. However their stunning defeat in the Durand Cup final reveals they have chinks in their armor. Do they sail through or fall on star power? Mumbai City FC If Mohun Bagan are Goliath, then Mumbai City FC are David with a sling named Lallianzuala Chhangte. The defending ISL champions lost big names like Apuia, however with the deadly combination of Jon Toral and Nikos Karelis, this ship is still cruising smoothly under Petr Kratky. Whether they would retain the silverware in the City of Dreams or get it slipped off just like that soap bar because of wet hands, the question remains. FC Goa Here comes FC Goa, led by the man who has “building champions” on his business card—Manolo Marquez. With Armando Sadiku leading the charge at the front and Iker Guarrotxena coming back for more, Goa’s plan is pretty simple: crash the top four party. With key departures looming as some unwanted referee, it is going to be one heck of a hustle. Odisha FC Odisha FC have pretty much put together an FC Goa reunion tour, bringing Sergio Lobera back to his old squad. With experience not only comes wisdom, but also the dreaded enemy of all athletes—aging legs. Will it be a case of Lobera being able to roll back the years and lead Odisha to glory, or will Father Time strike again? Kerala Blasters Let’s talk Kerala Blasters, where Adrian Luna is literally carrying the team on his back and new coach Mikael Stahre is praying that back doesn’t break. The talent of Luna is a feast to watch for the football fans, unless he gets more to support him, Kerala may struggle to keep pace with the big guns. Chennaiyin FC Chennaiyin FC is abuzz with fresh hope as Owen Coyle returns to the hot seat of managers with big plans of restoring the old glory of the club. Having experience from previously guiding the team to success, Coyle’s experience would come in handy to revive Chennaiyin this season. The team has, however, had a major rebuild this offseason. It could be that just the right mix of fresh youthful talent and more experienced players will yield the perfect blend to fashion a strong playoff push and reinvigorate their winning ways. NorthEast United The appointment of a new coach, Juan Benali, is going to herald a new era in their pursuit of excellence. After NorthEast United had to confront those lean spells for almost a season or so, with the innovative tactics of Benali, everything needs a change. NorthEast United hope that their underdog spirit may bring some surprises to the league this season. Thanks to key new signings and restructuring, they are the dark horses of the season that might well crash into the elite party, break the established pecking order and pull off an unforgettable playoff run. So, get the popcorn ready, as this ISL 2024-25 season is going to be a mouthful of goals, drama and magical football. Shall we see dominance from the Big Three or some upsets? The only sure thing is that it will be quite a ride. Stay tuned for part 2 of the team previews at the ISL 2024-25 season. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
ISL 2024-25: Who Can Take Over The Throne?
The wait is over as the Indian Super League (ISL) is back into action. The roast, after official confirmation from AIFF, will begin on 13 September 2024 with a high voltage clash between the reigning champions Mumbai City FC and last year’s runner-up Mohun Bagan Super Giant at the Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata. But hang on, with Mohammedan Sporting in the fray now, things just got spicier. So, who’s got the chops to wear the crown this time around? Well, here are the top 3 contenders that could rule the roost this season. Mohun Bagan Super Giant Well, the appetite wasn’t quite full for Mohun Bagan after winning the ISL Shield last season, as they wanted the whole buffet, which Mumbai City FC managed to snatch away in the final by beating them 3-1, thus leaving the Mariners with nothing but a silver platter. Now, under the new boss Jose Francisco Molina, the Super Giants are back, hungrier than ever. Can they turn the tables and grab their second ISL title? Keep your eyes peeled! Mumbai City FC Last season, Mumbai City FC wasn’t just about winning; they ruled with iron fists. A 3-1 victory over Mohun Bagan in the final was a tactical masterclass from Petr Kratky. They have added firepower this time, with the likes of Brandon Fernandes as their newest recruits to keep the engines purring. Can the defending champions make it three successive ISL titles? Spoiler alert: They are not slowing down. FC Goa FC Goa’s run last season was like watching an underdog movie-12 games unbeaten, flying! But, alas, a few stumbles cost them the Shield. With Manolo Marquez now at the helm of affairs and key players moving on, the work is cut out for the Gaurs. Will they defy the odds and take the title this year? Well, only time will tell, but definitely they have got some tricks up their sleeves! The ISL 2024-25 season will be a true explosion for the battle of the throne. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
ISL 2024-25: 5 Fresh-Faces Ready To Set The Field Ablaze
The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season gets underway on 13 September, 2024 and it’s not just going to be all about the seasoned pros hogging the limelight. This season, a troop of bright youngsters is primed to take centerstage. Here’s a rundown of the top five young future stars who are about to set the turf ablaze: David Lalhlansanga (East Bengal FC) Meet David Lalhlansanga, the striker who’s hungrier for goals than a teenager on a midnight snacking spree. Having scored 21 goals and clinched the Golden Boot with Mohammedan SC, Lalhlansanga has joined East Bengal FC. While big names like Cleiton Silva and Dimitrios Diamantakos will no doubt command a starting spot in the squad, Lalhlansanga will be worth his weight in gold once he gets his shot. Expect fireworks. Mohammed Sanan K (Jamshedpur FC) Mohammed Sanan is like a live wire on the pitch, quick and so unpredictable-one can never afford to ignore him. The 20-year-old left winger had oodles of flair and creativity last season. Mohammed Sanan has already netted two in the Durand Cup and if his maiden ISL season was an example, this season may see him break through as a household name. Tekcham Abhishek Singh (Punjab FC) The teenage dynamo, Tekcham Abhishek Singh has the endurance of a marathon runner and the speed of something quicker than a cheetah. Known for his runs from right-back, Singh always gets the fans’ hearts racing. This season, though, he seems all set to play a much larger role. The teenager’s talent is expected to explode into performances that will catapult Punjab FC up the table. Vibin Mohanan (Kerala Blasters FC) Vibin Mohanan is the Kerala Blasters’ very own midfield magician. 21 years into his life, Mohanan has already sent fans into a tizzy with his ball control and spot-on passing. With Jeakson Singh off to East Bengal, Vibin Mohanan is set to become the midfield maestro Kerala fans will rally behind. There is much one can expect from this dazzling young talent. Chingambam Shivaldo Singh (Bengaluru FC) Chingambam Shivaldo Singh is the ultimate multitasker-once a defender, now a right winger with a penchant for scoring. The 20-year-old did make a decent debut last season, with one goal and an assist and is all set to make the right flank his playground this season. Watch out for Shivaldo adding some sparkle to Bengaluru’s attack. Get ready for these shining stars to take to the pitch in the ISL 2024-25 season. Buckle up, as this season is going to be a thrilling rollercoaster of emerging talent and unforgettable moments. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Lessons From the Greatest Coaches Across Sports
Teachers’ Day isn’t just about celebrating the ones who teach in classrooms; it’s about honoring those who shape lives in every arena, especially sports. Here’s a tribute to five legendary coaches who’ve not only mastered their craft but also transformed their sports. Rahul Dravid (Cricket) In a world of flashy personalities, Rahul Dravid stands out for his quiet strength and ability to build without noise. Nicknamed ‘The Wall’ for his defense as a batter, Dravid’s coaching reflects the same grit. He’s not just training cricketers; he’s molding future leaders of Indian cricket. The world saw his brilliance as a coach during the Indian Cricket Team’s successful campaign at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, where India lifted the title under Dravid’s guidance. His lesson? “Patience builds greatness.” Behind every victory lies the hours of disciplined work he instills in his players, even when no one’s watching. Dinesh Lad (Cricket) The Dronacharya awardee, Dinesh Lad, is the mastermind behind a couple of renowned cricketing faces in India . Rohit Sharma and Shardul Thakur are household names in cricket. It was Lad’s vision and mentorship that laid their foundations. What sets him apart? He doesn’t just coach skills; he coaches resilience, teaching his players to rise from setbacks stronger. His philosophy? “Talent needs a guiding hand,” and his role as that steady hand has led to the rise of some of the best cricketers in India. José Mourinho (Football) Call him The Special One and it’s not just about his winning record—it’s about the mind games, the psychological edge and the tactical genius. José Mourinho sees football like a chess game, where every move counts and it’s all about staying ten steps ahead. What can we learn from him? “Confidence is everything.” His players don’t just play—they believe. Under Mourinho, confidence isn’t an option, it’s a requirement. His story is a lesson in self-belief and creating an unbeatable mindset. Pullela Gopichand (Badminton) Pullela Gopichand may not hog the limelight, however his academy has produced champions who do. Behind every Saina Nehwal and P.V. Sindhu is Gopichand’s pursuit of perfection. He teaches more than badminton—he teaches discipline, the fine art of never being satisfied with ‘good enough.’ His approach? “Precision is power.” Gopichand’s lessons extend beyond the game; they’re about living with intent and constantly striving for excellence. Red Auerbach (Basketball) Red Auerbach wasn’t just a coach—he was a visionary. The Boston Celtics’ rise under his leadership changed the game, both literally and figuratively. Known for lighting a victory cigar when he knew the game was won, Auerbach believed in “winning with class.” His lesson? Leadership is about empowering others. His players didn’t just play for him; they became better leaders under his watch and his legacy lives on through their success. Lessons Beyond the Scoreboard These coaches show us that sports, like life, are about more than just the final score. It’s about the discipline, the confidence, the patience and the vision we apply to everything we do. Whether you’re stepping onto a field or into a meeting room, their lessons resonate far beyond the game. On this Teachers’ Day, let’s celebrate these mentors who coach not just athletes , but champions in life. The Sportz Planet Desk,Nitya Sutrave