🗞️ Daily Digest: Vini Jr signs, Barça star disappointed, Saudi World Cup? | OneFootball

The biggest stories of the day but so much more digestible, so you know everything you need to.

Vini Jr extends Real Madrid stay

Real Madrid have extended Vinicius Junior’s contract until 2027 with a €1bn release clause included in his deal. The Brazilian will reportedly be among the club’s top earners, earning at least €10m/year. Vinicius is a key player for Los Blancos, poised to lead the team alongside Jude Bellingham in the coming years.

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Saudi Arabia favourites to host World Cup in 2034

Football Australia has decided not to bid for the 2034 World Cup, clearing the path for Saudi Arabia to host the tournament. The AFC’s support for Saudi Arabia’s bid and FIFA’s regional restrictions have influenced this decision. Instead, Australia will focus on hosting the 2029 Club World Cup and the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup.

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Barcelona planning Messi homecoming

After winning his eighth Ballon d’Or on Monday evening, Lionel Messi expressed his desire to say a proper farewell to his former club Barcelona. Barcelona are reportedly now planning a special tribute for Messi in front of fans at the new Camp Nou, with the aim to do it around the end of November 2024, rather than waiting until 2026 when renovations will be completed.

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Gündoğan left ‘disappointed’ by Barcelona

İlkay Gündoğan’s critical post-match comments after Barcelona’s defeat to Real Madrid raised eyebrows at the weekend. Reports in Spain now suggest Gündoğan and his family received minimal support upon his arrival at Barcelona, leading to disappointment in the club. The club later apologised, but the initial experience is said to have left the former Manchester City midfielder less than impressed.

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Arteta expecting ‘beautiful’ Rice return to West Ham

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expects Declan Rice to play against his former club, West Ham, in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday. Rice, who moved to Arsenal for £105m in the summer, will return to the London Stadium for the first time, and Arteta hopes the fans will give him a warm reception, considering his strong ties to the Hammers. Arsenal will be without Gabriel Jesus and Thomas Partey due to injuries, while captain Martin Ødegaard might be rested.

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