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Mohamed Al Fayed: 1929-2023


Everyone at Fulham was incredibly saddened to learn of the death of our former Owner and Chairman, Mohamed Al Fayed.

His successor, Shahid Khan, this evening paid tribute.

"On behalf of everyone at Fulham Football Club, I send my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mohamed Al Fayed upon the news of his passing at age 94. The story of Fulham cannot be told without a chapter on the positive impact of Mr Al Fayed as Chairman. His legacy will be remembered for our promotion to the Premier League, a Europa League Final, and moments of magic by players and teams alike. I always enjoyed my time with Mr Al Fayed, who was wise, colourful and committed to Fulham, and I am forever grateful for his trust in me to succeed him as Chairman in 2013. I join our supporters around the world in celebrating the memory of Mohamed Al Fayed, whose legacy will always be at the heart of our tradition at Fulham Football Club."


Al Fayed purchased Fulham in 1997, following our recent promotion to the old Division Two (now League One). Following his takeover, he announced his intention to reach the Premier League within five years. Fulham did it in four.

With Al Fayed in charge, the Club attracted a new calibre of player to Craven Cottage, breaking our own transfer record on a regular basis. Convincing Chris Coleman to drop down two divisions was an early sign of the ambition in place by the Thames.

Kevin Keegan's appointment was significant in itself, but his title win in 1999 was done in such style that England came calling, a seemingly unheard of notion considering he had been managing in the third tier. After allowing his Manager to talk to the FA, Al Fayed described the move as his "gift to the nation."

Two years later, the Whites were promoted again, realising Al Fayed's dream of bringing Premier League football to Craven Cottage for the first time. The appointment of Jean Tigana surprised many, but it proved inspired as the team dazzled their way to the Division One title.


Now amongst England's elite, where we remained for a subsequent 13 years, Fulham reached a first FA Cup Semi-Final since 1975, secured a highest ever league finish of seventh, and defied the odds to make it all the way to the inaugural Europa League Final in 2010.

In 2013, after 16 years at the Club, Al Fayed sold Fulham to Mr Khan.


"My time of serving as the custodian of Fulham Football Club would one day come to an end, and I feel that time has now arrived," Al Fayed said. "The time is right because I have found a very good man in Shahid Khan to accept the responsibility and privilege that I have enjoyed at Fulham since 1997.

"Fulham will be in very good hands with Shahid, whose success in business and passion for sport is very evident. I ask everyone who loves Fulham and our Craven Cottage home to welcome Shahid as he begins his journey as the next guardian of Fulham Football Club."

Everyone associated with Fulham owes Mohamed a debt of gratitude for what he did for our Club, and our thoughts now are with his family and friends at this sombre time.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/september/01/mohamed-al-fayed-1929-2023/

Palhinha flies to Munich, has medical, watches Bayern move disintegrate
João Palhinha has become the transfer deadline day's tragic figure, as his move from Fulham to Bayern Munich collapsed as he watched on helplessly from Bayern's training facility.

Fulham had allowed the Portuguese midfielder to fly to Munich after reportedly agreeing to a fee in the region of €65 million with the German champions.

Though Palhinha arrived in Munich, the transfer was not completely sealed. Fulham was still reportedly searching for the 28-year-old's replacement, which was a necessity for the Premier League club to allow one of its key players to depart.

Though the likes of Scott McTominay and Pierre-Emile Højbjerg were linked to the Cottagers, no deal went through prior to the 6 p.m. transfer deadline in Germany.

And so Palhinha — having already completed a medical and even taken photos with a Bayern shirt — saw his deadline-day move collapse in heartbreaking fashion.

It was a frustrating conclusion to a fruitless deadline day for Bayern, which also saw rumored moves for Armel Bella-Kotchap, Trevoh Chalobah and João Cancelo fall through.

But it was Palhinha's collapsed deal which will hurt the most, as the Portugal international joins Peter Odemwingie in the annals of failed deadline-day transfers.



https://prosoccerwire.usatoday.com/lists/palhinha-bayern-transfer-fulham-falls-though/

How Bayern Munich failed to sign Palhinha
The transfer deadline has now passed and Bayern Munich continued to be actively pursuing deals for Fulham's Palhinha, Southampton's Armel Bella-Kotchap and Chelsea's Trevor Chalobah today but ended up making no new signings.

Palhinha had been in Munich today completing his medical as well as taking pictures in a Bayern Munich shirt ahead of the club announcement. However, despite an agreement between Fulham and Bayern being reached the deal rested on the fact that the London side could not find a replacement for the Portuguese international.

Fulham had actively tried to find a replacement and had shown interest in Scott McTominay from Manchester United but no deal was able to materialise as the Scottish international rejected the club. Fulham's failure to replace Palhinha meant his move to the Bayern was called off.

The collapse of the Palhinha deal does not hinder Liverpool in completing the signing of Ryan Gravenberch. The 21-year-old will be able to complete his €40m move to the Premier League side. The departure of Gravenberch now means Bayern only have three senior midfielders: Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka and Konrad Laimer.

Moves for Bella-Kotchap and Chalobah also failed to materialise for different reasons. As the transfer window in Germany closes at 6 pm CET, Bayern ran out of time to complete a deal for Bella-Kotchap. Kicker reports Bayern turned their attention away from Chalobah to focus on Bella-Kotchap despite Chelsea being willing to loan the defender to Bayern.



https://www.getfootballnewsgermany.com/2023/how-bayern-munich-failed-to-sign-palhinha/

Manchester City v Fulham: The Opposition
A Look At City's Weekend Opponents

Manchester City look to go into the international break with a 100% record as the entertain Fulham at the Etihad Stadium.

The blues have won all three of their opening fixtures and face a Cottagers side that has very much had mixed fortunes at the start of the new campaign.

Fulham will be looking solidify their place in the Premier League after finishing 10th in the first season back in the top flight. Here, we take an in-depth look at the Cottagers form, star players and the team in general.

Form
Like City, Fulham have played three matches and have won, drawn and lost one each. The Cottagers got their season off to a great start with a 1-0 win at Everton on the opening day, however, they succumbed to a heavy 3-0 home defeat at the hands of Brentford.

Last weekend, Fulham took the lead at Arsenal in the opening minutes, but a penalty for Arsenal in the 70th minute came as a surprise to no one, before the Gunners took the lead two minutes later. Calvin Bassey was then sent off before the Cottagers levelled with three minutes of normal time remaining remaining.

Away from the PL, Fulham put Spurs out of the League Cup in midweek. The match finished 1-1, with Fulham winning 5-3 on penalties

New Signings
Fulham have been busy in the transfer market, with Bassey arriving from Ajax for around £18m and Timothy Castagne from Leicester for around £10m. The Cottagers raided Wolves over the summer, taking Raul Jimenez and Adam Traore to Craven Cottage and goalkeeper Steven Benda arrived from Fulham.



https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com/2023/9/1/23855395/manchester-city-v-fulham-the-opposition

Fulham star devastated as Bayern Munich move '100% off' after medical and media duties
Fabrizio Romano has reported the deal which would have seen Joao Palhinha move from Fulham to Bayern Munich is now '100% off' after the midfielder completed his medical and media duties.

It's been an eventful transfer window for Fulham. They might well have seen three of their best players depart the club in the space of a few weeks.

At the beginning of August, after just re-signing Willian to a new one-year deal, he told them he wanted to leave for Al Shabab after agreeing personal terms, but he was forced to stay. Shortly after, Aleksandr Mitrovic did move to Saudi Arabia, heading to Al Hilal for a Cottagers club-record sale of £44million.

Midfield star Palhinha has been a target for multiple clubs throughout the summer. West Ham identified him as an ideal replacement for Declan Rice, but instead pursued other targets.

Bayern Munich then entered the picture, and Fulham sanctioned a £58million deal, allowing Palhinha to fly to Germany to sign, with the caveat that they needed to sign a replacement themselves before finalising the deal.

They opened talks with Manchester United regarding a move for Scott McTominay, but Fabrizio Romano reports nothing came of that.

Indeed, the transfer insider states there was 'no deal on player side'. That's had a big impact on Palhinha's proposed move to Bayern, as Romano states it's '100% off' with 'no way to change the situation' as Fulham failed to secure a replacement.

That will be devastating for the midfielder, after he reportedly underwent his medical and media duties in Munich, before being told he'll have to return to Fulham.

That move would have been a huge one for the Portuguese. Before moving to Fulham, he'd never played in a top-five European league.

His move to Craven Cottage last summer allowed him that opportunity, and he grabbed it with both hands, being one of the most impressive midfielders in the league while playing for a side that finished 10th in the Premier League.



https://www.football365.com/news/fulham-star-devastated-bayern-munich-move-off-medical

Fulham: Joao Palhinha in 'very strange moment' at Craven Cottage
Bayern Munich's move for Fulham ace Joao Palhinha has collapsed

Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha's move to Bayern Munich has now collapsed and transfer insider Dean Jones has given his verdict on the situation, while speaking to GIVEMESPORT.

While Marco Silva and his entourage will be pleased, the same cannot be said for the Portugal international, who was keen to explore pastures new.

Fulham transfer news – Joao Palhinha
Palhinha, who was a vital cog in Fulham's top-half finish in 2022/23, had been given the club's blessing to travel to Germany to complete a deadline day deal that would see him join Bundesliga giants Bayern. The 28-year-old, who was keen to ply his trade in the Champions League, was expected to join for a fee around the £65m mark, though a deal was not able to rubber-stamped before the German transfer window's 5pm cut-off point.

In light of Palhinha's seemingly inevitable switch to Bavaria, MailOnline reported that Fulham had tabled a bid worth £25m to Tottenham Hotspur for Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg's signature. However, it is expected that the Craven Cottage outfit will firmly put on the brakes off the back of the latest development.

Manchester United had also been approached for outcast Scott McTominay today, though that deal is also expected to be put on the back burner given that Palhinha will be turning to London imminently. Now, transfer insider Jones has given GIVEMESPORT an update on the disheartening situation and how the midfield enforcer must be feeling.

What did Dean Jones say about Fulham and Joao Palhinha?
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Jones said: "Joao Palhinha has fallen victim to the early German deadline as the cut-off meant Fulham could not replace him in time after allowing him to go over to Germany. A blow for the player and obviously a very strange moment for him emotionally - but it's also strange they left it so late to come in for him. Palhinha has been hiding in plain sight all year as the best defensive midfielder in the Premier League. I'm not sure why it took until the final few days of August to realise he was who they needed. It has been a pretty wild ride over at Bayern as deals for Trevoh Chalobah and Armel Bella-Kotchap also collapsed. Simply ran out of time on all of it."

What else is happening at Fulham on deadline day?
Fulham's Harrison Reed has also been touted with a move away from the Premier League in recent days, with Wolverhampton Wanderers emerging as the leading candidates, according to Sky Sports. The would-be buyers have, however, seen their opening £4m offer snubbed, per transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.

Meanwhile, the capital club have re-opened talks with Chelsea for Callum Hudson-Odoi, who has also piqued interest from Premier League club Nottingham Forest. The overriding feeling, however, is that Fulham have left it too late given that BBC Sport have reported the winger is completing his medical ahead of a move to the Tricky Trees.



https://www.givemesport.com/fulham-joao-palhinha-in-very-strange-moment-at-craven-cottage/

Mbabu joins Augsburg on loan
Fulham full back Kevin Mbabu has joined German outfit FC Augsburg on loan for the remainder of the season.

The Swiss international, who has made only seven appearances since signing for the Whites last July, spent a significant chunk of last season on loan with Servette and has now joined Enrico Maaßen's men. Augsburg are eleventh in the Bundesliga and face Bochum at home tomorrow afternoon.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/mbabu-joins-augsburg-on-loan/

Manchester City vs Fulham: Preview, Team News and Prediction
A good test at home.

Manchester City face a stern test at home vs Fulham.

The Premier League is here and we continue the quest for the quad of PL's.

Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England

Time and Date: Saturday 2 September 2023, Kickoff at 15:00 BST, 9.00 am (EST, USA)

Referee: Michael Oliver.

Assistants: Stuart Burt, Dan Cook.

Fourth official: Michael Salisbury.

VAR: Tony Harrington.

Assistant VAR: Adam Nunn.

TV Info: SKY Sports (UK), Peacock/USA Network/Universo (USA), DAZN (Canada), Hotstar VIP (India), Paramount+ (Mexico), SuperSport (Nigeria)

***STREAM THE GAME LIVE, FUBO TV (USA) shows every Manchester City game on USA NETWORK/NBC with a high-quality and legal stream. New to Fubo TV? Click here

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Preview + Form

City is off a nice win in Sheffield and Fulham off a draw to Spurs.

This should make for a fun match and the last with Juanma Lillo in charge. Look for CIty's midfield to take charge and really make it a tough match for the lilywhites.

With that in mind, Haaland should have ample opportunities for goal as the qualitya nd service should be there.

Which team will come out in front?

Team News

City's side have John Stones and Kevin De Bruyne out.

Fulham haveBenda and Willian out.

Prediction

Manchester City 2-0 Fulham



https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com/2023/9/1/23855886/manchester-city-vs-fulham-preview-team-news-and-prediction

Mohamed Al-Fayed dies, aged 94
Former Fulham chairman Mohamed Al-Fayed has passed away, aged 94.

The Egyptian billionaire, the former owner of Harrods, and the father of Dodi Fayed, who was killed in a Paris car crash with Diana, Princess of Wales in 1997, purchased Fulham following their promotion from the Third Division earlier that summer. He promised to take the Whites to the top flight within five years and achieved his aim a year earlier than planned.

His dream of making Fulham 'the Manchester United of the South' didn't quite materialise, perhaps in part due to the departure of key players like Louis Saha and Edwin van der Sar to Old Trafford, but his stewardship of the club ensured thirteen unbroken years in the Premier League until he sold to Shahid Khan in August 2013.

Al-Fayed's tenure was tarnished by the secretive deal to sell Craven Cottage to Fulham River Projects after his ambitions to redevelop the club's historic home were frustrated by local residents. After a fan-led 'Back to the Cottage' campaign, Al-Fayed relented and returned the Whites from exile at Queens Park Rangers. His appointment of Roy Hodgson, who took Fulham from almost certain relegation to the Europa League final, was inspired and also saw the Cottagers record their highest finish of seventh place in 2009.

Al-Fayed is survived by his four surviving children, including Omar, who served on Fulham's board towards the latter end of his father's ownership. There is no doubt that Al-Fayed transformed the fortunes of London's oldest professional club and we send our warmest condolences to his friends and family. Thank you for letting us leave the dream.

Take me home, Al Fayed – as the Hammersmith End still sings today.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/mohamed-al-fayed-dies-aged-94/

Wigan Athletic bring in Martial Godo and Arsenal defender Omar Rekik on loan


Wigan Athletic have completed two deadline-day loan signings by bringing in Fulham winger Martial Godo and Arsenal defender Omar Rekik.

Godo, 20, is yet to play in the Premier League, but has played once for the Cottagers in the EFL Cup.

He signed a new contract with Fulham earlier this month but will spend the rest of the season at the DW Stadium.

Tunisia international Rekik, 21, who joined Arsenal in January 2021, is on loan until January.

He played 11 times for Wigan in a loan spell in the second half of last season.

The Latics, relegated from the Championship, have now made 11 signings in this transfer window.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/66689902

Mohamed Al Fayed dies as tributes paid to ex-owner of Harrods and Fulham football club

Egyptian billionaire and former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed died of old age on Wednesday, said his family in a statement - a day before the anniversary of the death of his son Dodi and Princess Diana

Mohamed Al Fayed, the self-made Egyptian billionaire, former owner of Harrods, and father of Dodi Fayed, has died at the age of 94.

He was buried after Friday prayers following a service at Regent's Park Mosque in London, reported Al Jazeera Egypt. He died one day before the 26th anniversary of the death of his eldest son, Dodi, and Princess Diana.

In a statement released by Fulham FC, his family said: "Mrs Mohamed Al Fayed, her children and grandchildren wish to confirm that her beloved husband, their father and their grandfather, Mohamed, has passed away peacefully of old age on Wednesday August 30, 2023.

"He enjoyed a long and fulfilled retirement surrounded by his loved ones. The family have asked for their privacy to be respected at this time."

The Egyptian businessman was the owner and chairman of Fulham between 1997 and 2013 when he sold it to current owner Shahid Khan. The football club said it was "incredibly saddened" by his death.

In a tweet, the west London club said: "Everyone at Fulham was incredibly saddened to learn of the death of our former owner and chairman, Mohamed Al Fayed. We owe Mohamed a debt of gratitude for what he did for our club, and our thoughts now are with his family and friends at this sombre time."

And in a tribute on the club's website, his successor Mr Khan said: "On behalf of everyone at Fulham Football Club, I send my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mohamed Al Fayed upon the news of his passing at age 94.

"The story of Fulham cannot be told without a chapter on the positive impact of Mr Al Fayed as chairman. His legacy will be remembered for our promotion to the Premier League, a Europa League Final, and moments of magic by players and teams alike.

"I always enjoyed my time with Mr Al Fayed, who was wise, colourful and committed to Fulham, and I am forever grateful for his trust in me to succeed him as chairman in 2013. I join our supporters around the world in celebrating the memory of Mohamed Al Fayed, whose legacy will always be at the heart of our tradition at Fulham Football Club."

Al Shorouk newspaper reported that Ashraf Haider, a member of his family, wrote: "My wife's grandfather, the Egyptian businessman Mohamed Al-Fayed, has died. We belong to God and to Him we shall return."

And Fulham Focus, a podcast created by fans of the football club, said: "Very sad to relate that reports from Egypt state that former Fulham owner & Chairman Mohamed Al Fayed has passed at the age of 94. He brought a lot of energy and drive to reviving Fulham's fortunes and the club and fans owe him a great deal. Our condolences to his family."

In the 1990s, Al Fayed was one of the richest people in the world, with an impressive list of businesses and property to his name. As the owner of luxury department store Harrods and his involvement with high-profile charities brought him into the same circles as the royal family, including Princess Diana.

His eldest son, Dodi, was friends with the royal for about a decade before romance blossomed during a yacht holiday in the south of France. However they were denied the opportunity to spend their lives together, dying side-by-side in a car crash in Paris. Al Fayed spent the rest of his life mourning the loss.

The billionaire's relationship with the royal family was recently depicted in season five of The Crown, where Mr Al Fayed, played by Salim Daw, was seen getting to know Diana. The businessman was born in Alexandria in Egypt and came to London in the 1960s where he set about building his empire.

Mr Al Fayed had taken control of Harrods in 1985 and he had also purchased the Ritz hotel in Paris in 1979; and was known for being the owner of Fulham FC between 1997 and 2013. In 2010, he decided to sell Harrods to Qatar's royal family for a reported £1.5 billion and three years later he sold Fulham FC to Mr Khan, owner of American football team Jacksonville Jaguars.

Mr Al Fayed had once shown the "King of Pop" Michael Jackson around Fulham FC's Craven Cottage in 1999. The Sunday Times Rich List from 2021 reported that Mohamed Al-Fayed and family were worth around £1.7 billion.

Following the news of his passing, we look back at Al Fayed's life, and his rise to fame.

Self-made billionaire was son of a school inspector
Mohamed Al Fayed was born in the Egyptian city of Alexandria on the Mediterranean, the son of a school inspector. He came to London in the 1960s and set about building a business empire. Once there, the flamboyant and extrovert character was rarely out of the newspapers.

In the 1980s, he hit the headlines as he battled for control of the House of Fraser group, including its flagship store Harrods, with rival tycoon "Tiny" Rowland. Al Fayed and his brother bought a 30% stake in House Of Fraser from Mr Rowland in 1984, and took control of Harrods for £615 million the following year.

Mr Rowland's London and Rhodesian Mining Company (Lonrho) had attempted to buy Harrods but was beaten to it by the Egyptian family. Mr Rowland later accused Al Fayed of breaking into his safety deposit box at the department store.

The Egyptian was arrested in March 1998 along with Harrods security director John Macnamara and four other store staff, but was never charged. Al Fayed later expanded his business interests to include the Paris Ritz and Fulham Football Club.

Massive wealth and business deals
 In the past few decades, Mr Al Fayed sold off several of his high-profile businesses. Back in 2010, he sold Harrods to Qatar for a staggering $2.4billion. While he said he would never part ways with his beloved department store, it was a row over dividends and pension funds which finally showed him it was time to say goodbye.

Speaking to the Evening Standard at the time, he said: "Of course it makes me sad ... you can go ask everyone, people don't want me to go. But first of all I can't take this. I am 77 years old, right. I have children, I have grandchildren, you know ... I have done it. And time for me now to rest. And enjoy."

Three years later, in 2013, he also said goodbye to Fulham Football Club, which he sold to billionaire Shahid Khan for $300m. However he remained the proud owner of the famous Ritz Paris Hotel, regarded by many as the most beautiful in the world. In 2016 it underwent a massive refurbishment.

Earlier this year, his wealth was estimated at $2billion (roughly £1.58million), ranking at number 1,493 globally. And in May last year, Forbes listed his wealth at $1.9billion - which is about £1.6billion.

Foray into politics
As well as the worlds of business and royalty, he became embroiled in politics in 1994 when he was at the centre of the "cash-for-questions" scandal that rocked Westminster.

Al Fayed claimed via the Guardian he had paid then Tory MPs Neil Hamilton and Tim Smith thousands of pounds to illegally table questions in the Commons on his behalf. Mr Smith apologised and stepped down at the 1997 election but Mr Hamilton sued Al Fayed for libel, landing himself a seven-figure legal bill and eventual bankruptcy after losing to the businessman.

Mr Hamilton, who was later heavily criticised in a Commons report into the affair, was voted out at the 1997 election and is now the leader of Ukip.

Bond with Princess Diana
While it's unknown where they first met, Princess Diana and Al Fayed's circles would have crossed regularly as he sponsored many of the charities she was involved with. Their unlikely friendship features heavily in season five of The Crown, showing Mr Al Fayed, played by Salim Daw, growing closer to the royals.

In the summer of 1997, the year after Charles and Diana were finally able to officially divorce following their five year separation, Al Fayed invited Diana and her two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, to join his family on his yacht in the south of France.

 The 208ft superyacht was the perfect setting for family time, with photos from the time showing the loving mum playing with her sons on the deck . The boat, which has now changed hands, has nine staterooms and can hold 18 people as well as a crew of 26. Dripping in luxury, it boasted a jacuzzi, office, formal dining room and a swim platform.

And it was during this trip that Diana grew close to Al Fayed's oldest son, 42-year-old film producer Dodi. Pictures of the couple cuddling and kissing on the top deck went around the world, while Diana was photographed sunbathing, jumping into a speedboat and sitting on the stern in a contemplative mood.

They were among the last pictures of the Princess, who told her friend Rosa Monckton in a phone call from the yacht that her time there was "bliss".

Fallout with the royals
Al Fayed spent a decade after the lovers' 1997 deaths in Paris's Alma tunnel repeatedly claiming that they were murdered in a plot by the security services and the Duke of Edinburgh. But he was forced to reluctantly concede defeat after a high-profile six-month inquest in 2007 and 2008.

The jury returned unlawful killing verdicts on both Diana and Dodi, but pinned the blame on the drink-driving of their chauffeur Henri Paul, who also died in the crash. Paul was employed by the Paris Ritz, from where their journey had started on August 31, a hotel owned by Mr Al Fayed.

At the end of the inquest, coroner Lord Justice Scott Baker openly voiced suggestions of "closing ranks" at the hotel over the question of whether they knew Paul was drinking on the night of the smash.

The jury had heard allegations, strenuously denied, that key witnesses were pressurised to back Mr Al Fayed's theories and that there was a "conspiracy to pervert the truth" within the Fayed organisation. Al Fayed later announced he would accept the verdict of the inquest jury, albeit "with reservations".

Grieving son's death
Speaking on the 20th anniversary of the crash, a friend told The Sun that Dodi's apartment remains the same as it did at the time of his death.

They told the newspaper: "He often spends hours on end sitting with Dodi. After 20 years he still misses him terribly. And when he is in London he will take time out to visit Dodi's apartment. Not one thing inside has changed since Dodi died. He will not allow anyone to move anything.

"The apartment is cleaned but it is still exactly the same as when Dodi and Diana used to spend time there."

No stranger to controversy
Fulham were languishing in Division Two when he took over in 1997 but spending on players and high-profile managers including Kevin Keegan and Roy Hodgson saw them rise to the top-half of the Premier League in the early Noughties, peaking in qualification for the Europa League.

Off the pitch, fans were treated to some bizarre spectacles, including a 1999 visit from Al Fayed's friend Michael Jackson. The Harrods boss and the club faced some ridicule when, in 2011, two years after Jackson's death, a statue of him as erected at its Craven Cottage ground.

Al Fayed wanted to pay tribute to the late King of Pop, whom he was friends with and said was a fan of the club. When he sold the club in 2013, he said there would be "big trouble" if the new owner was to remove the sculpture.

But a Fulham spokesperson said at the time: "The statue is not part of the Riverside development of the stadium and will be returned to the former chairman in due course."

Later life
The billionaire's relationship with the royal family was recently depicted in season five of The Crown, where Mr Al Fayed, played by Salim Daw, was seen getting to know Diana.

Mr Daw was nominated for supporting actor at the Baftas for his portrayal of Mr Al Fayed. Al-Fayed was named as the fourth richest person in Scotland on the Sunday Times Rich List 2023 with a fortune of £1.69 billion.

Mr Al Fayed was married twice and had five children.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/breaking-mohamed-al-fayed-dies-30844832

Mohamed Al-Fayed dies aged 94: Former Harrods and Fulham FC owner passes away nearly 26 years to the day since his son Dodi was killed in car crash with Princess Diana

    'Wise, colourful' Egyptian businessman dies 'of old age' in London
    Tributes paid to Mr Al-Fayed, who never got over death of son Dodi in 1997

Mohamed Al-Fayed, the self-made billionaire who owned Harrods and Fulham FC, has died - almost 26 years to the day after his son was killed alongside Princess Diana in a car crash in Paris.

The Egyptian businessman was 94.

He was born in Alexandria in 1929 and moved to the UK in the 1960s, becoming an early driving force in the development of Dubai, and he later bought House of Fraser, including Harrods, with his brothers, as well as the Ritz hotel in Paris, which he owned up until his death.

A funeral service was held at London Central Mosque in Regents Park on Friday - following Islamic conventions to bury the dead as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours.

In a statement released by Fulham FC, his family said: 'Mrs Mohamed Al Fayed, her children and grandchildren wish to confirm that her beloved husband, their father and their grandfather, Mohamed, has passed away peacefully of old age on Wednesday August 30, 2023.

'He enjoyed a long and fulfilled retirement surrounded by his loved ones. The family have asked for their privacy to be respected at this time.'

MailOnline understands that preparations had been in place for his funeral for some time amid concerns for his health.

'The service went ahead as planned,' a source said. 'The prayers were held in the mosque after Friday prayer - the prayer for the deceased.'

Al Shorouk newspaper reported that Ashraf Haider, a member of his family, wrote on social media: 'My wife's grandfather, the Egyptian businessman Mohamed Al-Fayed, has died. We belong to God and to Him we shall return.'

Mr Al-Fayed began his career selling fizzy drinks and then worked as a sewing-machine salesman.

He built his family's fortune in real estate, shipping and construction, first in the Middle East and then in Europe.

A combination of building a business empire in the UK and establishing a charitable foundation saw him mixing with the UK's most illustrious figures - from stars to royalty.

Mr Al-Fayed is believed to have met Diana and the then-Prince Charles at a polo match in the 1980s, and through this connection introduced her to his son Dodi.

Despite his vast business interests Mr Al-Fayed was probably best known for his continued search for answers to questions surrounding the crash that killed Dodi and Diana on August 31 1997 - almost exactly 26 years before his own death.

Diana - who was divorced from Charles in 1992 - and Dodi were pictured together in St Tropez in 1997, sparking rumours of romance, and the pair travelled together as they sought to leave the Ritz Hotel in Paris on the fateful morning of August 31 that year.

The younger Al-Fayed and the Princess of Wales were being driven away from paparazzi by Henri Paul, the deputy head of security at the hotel, when Paul lost control of the car and struck a pillar at around 65mph.

Mr Al-Fayed opened his own private investigation into the crash after being dissatisfied with the official investigations - and promoted a series of conspiracy theories alleging that the establishment had a hand in their deaths.

But a 2008 inquest concluded that Dodi and Diana were unlawfully killed by a combination of Paul's driving under the influence of alcohol, the fact neither were wearing seatbelts - and because of the erratic driving of paparazzi pursuing them through the early morning Paris streets.

Al-Fayed fell out with the British establishment after he was refused UK citizenship despite his vast business interests in the country.

He often threatened to move to France, which gave him the Legion of Honour, its highest civilian award.
He was later immortalised in Netflix series The Crown, played by Israeli actor Salim Daw, who will return to play the businessman in the next series, which will deal with the crash that killed his son and the Princess of Wales.
 
One episode of the show charts Mr Al-Fayed's rise to fame and eventual meeting with Princess Diana, played by Elizabeth Debicki.

Daw described him as an 'incredible, fascinating character' to play, telling Radio Times: 'He's so motivated to be on the top that this actually dictates the way he lives his life and the way he behaves.'

At one time Mr Al Fayed was one of the richest people in the world, with a wealth of businesses and property to his name.

Alongside his brothers, Mr Al-Fayed bought House of Fraser in the 1980s, which included London department store Harrods in Knightsbridge.

The purchase sparked a bitter feud with businessman Roland "Tiny" Rowland, who took the Al-Fayeds to a Department for Trade inquiry claiming their wealth had been exaggerated.

Like many billionaires, al-Fayed spurned convention. He once said he wanted to be mummified in a golden sarcophagus in a glass pyramid on the roof of Harrods.

He retained ownership of the store after the Frasers group entered public trading until 2010, when he sold it to Qatar Holding for $2.4billion.

Speaking to the Evening Standard about the sale, he said: 'Of course it makes me sad...you can go ask everyone, people don't want me to go.

'But first of all I can't take this. I am 77 years old, right. I have children, I have grandchildren, you know..I have done it. And time for me now to rest. And enjoy.'

But he also earned the respect of Fulham FC fans after buying the ailing West London professional side for £6m in 1997 - and his cash injection saw the team punch its way into the Premier League and European competition within a few years.

However, a decision to install a statue of Michael Jackson outside the ground in 2011 after the singer attended a match drew ire from the club's otherwise loyal fanbase.

Mr Al-Fayed sold the side to billionaire businessman Shahid Khan in 2013 for $300 million.

Paying tribute on Friday, Mr Khan said: 'On behalf of everyone at Fulham Football Club, I send my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mohamed Al Fayed upon the news of his passing at age 94.

'The story of Fulham cannot be told without a chapter on the positive impact of Mr Al Fayed as Chairman.

'His legacy will be remembered for our promotion to the Premier League, a Europa League Final, and moments of magic by players and teams alike.

'I always enjoyed my time with Mr Al Fayed, who was wise, colourful and committed to Fulham, and I am forever grateful for his trust in me to succeed him as Chairman in 2013.

'I join our supporters around the world in celebrating the memory of Mohamed Al Fayed, whose legacy will always be at the heart of our tradition at Fulham Football Club.'

A club statement added: 'Everyone at Fulham was incredibly saddened to learn of the death of our former owner and chairman, Mohamed Al Fayed.

'We owe Mohamed a debt of gratitude for what he did for our club, and our thoughts now are with his family and friends at this sombre time.'

Fulham fans came out in droves to pay tribute to Mr Al-Fayed on social media. To them, he was known simply as 'Mo'.

One fan said: 'The man who changed Fulham forever, if there is anyone deserving of a statue, it's Mo. Absolute top man, and a top owner.'

Another wrote: 'So sad. He did incredible things for our little club @fulhamfc and he will always be remembered (not only for the Michael Jackson statue) RIP Mo, reunited with your beloved son Dodi.'

Piers Morgan, writing on X (formerly Twitter), said: 'RIP Mohamed Al-Fayed, 94. An extraordinary tour de force of a man who never got over the death of his beloved son Dodi in the crash that also killed Diana.

'Mohamed wasn't everyone's cup of tea and he was a flawed, complex character, but I liked him.'

Earlier this year, Mr Al-Fayed's wealth was estimated at $2billion (roughly £1.58million), ranking at number 1,493 globally.

And in May last year, Forbes listed his wealth at $1.9billion - which is about £1.6billion.

Before Dodi's death in 1997, Mr Al-Fayed also became known to the British public for his involvement in the 'cash-for-questions' scandal.

It saw Conservative MPs resign in disgrace after failing to declare that they had been paid by the Egyptian to ask questions in parliament.

He approached the Guardian newspaper with the allegations in 1994, which led to the resignation of MP Tim Smith.

Another MP, Neil Hamilton, was found to have accepted bribes, including a holiday at the Ritz and a free shopping spree at Harrods.

He did not stand down, but the scandal led to him being inextricably associated with sleaze and he lost his seat at the 1997 general election.The questions related to controversy over Mr Al-Fayed's ownership of Harrods, and the businessman says he was approached by lobbyist Ian Greer to grease the palms of willing MPs.

Mr Al-Fayed was married twice: first to Saudi Arabian author Samira Khashoggi from 1953 to 1956, with whom he had Dodi.

In 1985, he married Finnish socialite and former model Heini Wathén, with whom he had another four children: Jasmine, Karim, Camilla, and Omar.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12471661/Mohamed-Al-Fayed-dies-age-94-Former-Harrods-Fulham-FC-owner-passes-away-26-years-day-son-perished-car-crash-Princess-Diana.html

Al-Ittihad 3-4 Al-Hilal: Former Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic bags stunning HAT-TRICK as Saudi Pro League champions drop points for the first time this season

    Al-Ittihad's perfect record came to an end on Friday as they lost 4-3 to Al-Hilal
    Former Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic bagged a hat-trick for the visitors

Former Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic bagged a hat-trick on Friday as Al-Hilal pulled off a stunning comeback  to beat 4-3 with Al-Ittihad.

The hosts came into the game as Saudi League Champions and had not dropped a point so far this season.

It looked like their form would continue when Brazilian captain Romarinho opened the scoring after just 16 minutes.

Mitrovic equalised minutes later, but goals from star signing Karim Benzema and Abderrazak Hamdallah meant Ittihad were leading 3-1 at the break.

Jorge Jesus' side did not let their heads drop, though, as Mitrovic added two more goals in five minutes to bring the scores level with 25 minutes remaining.

Nasser Al-Dawsari then completed the turnaround with a 71st minute winner that moved his side top of the Pro League.

Al-Hilal are the only side who remain unbeaten, with four wins and a draw from their opening five games.

Nuno Espirito Santo's side remain just one point behind after picking up four wins before Friday's setback.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12471605/Al-Ittihad-3-4-Al-Hilal-Aleksandar-Mitrovic-bags-stunning-hat-trick-Saudi-Pro-League-champions-drop-points-time-season.html

Lyon's Maxence Caqueret rejects offer from Fulham

L'Équipe report tonight that Premier League outfit Fulham have attempted a last-minute deadline day move for Lyon midfielder Maxence Caqueret – the player himself has turned down their advances.

According to the French outlet, the Cottagers made a lucrative offer to the French youth international, who despite Lyon's recent struggles – they are winless so far this season – had been the subject of little transfer interest so far this summer.

However, Caqueret has immediately turned down the offer. The current 12th-placed Premier League side also look set to hold on to Portuguese international midfielder João Palhinha after a move to Bayern Munich collapsed at the last minute.

Caqueret has made 133 appearances for Lyon since breaking into his formative club's first team during the 2019/20, and has established himself as a consistent fixture in the team over the last three seasons. Last year, he scored four goals and registered seven assists.



https://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2023/lyons-maxence-caqueret-rejects-offer-from-fulham/

Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo's move to AS Monaco falls through
Fabrizio Romano reports that Fulham and Monaco have failed to reach an agreement over defender Tosin Adarabioyo (25) – despite the player wanting to join the principality club.

L'Équipe  reported several days ago that Fulham have opened the door for a departure for Tosin Adarabioyo (25). It spelt good news for AS Monaco, who became increasingly optimistic of pulling off a deal.

Tottenham were competing for his signature before the end of the window, and it was reported that the Cottagers would prefer to sell to their London rivals, in order to receive Eric Dier in return. As reported by Foot Mercato, OGC Nice were also interested in Adarabioyo, in the event of Jean-Clair Todibo leaving the club.



https://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2023/fulham-defender-tosin-adarabioyos-move-to-as-monaco-falls-through/

Mohamed al-Fayed, ex-Harrods owner whose son died with Princess Diana, dead at 94
LONDON, Sept 1 (Reuters) - Mohamed al-Fayed, the self-made Egyptian billionaire who bought the Harrods department store and promoted the discredited conspiracy theory that the British royal family was behind the death of his son and Princess Diana, has died, his family said.

Born in the Egyptian city of Alexandria, al-Fayed began his career selling fizzy drinks and then worked as a sewing-machine salesman. He built his family's fortune in real estate, shipping and construction, first in the Middle East and then in Europe.

Although al-Fayed owned establishment symbols such as Harrods, Fulham and the Ritz hotel in Paris, he was always an outsider in Britain, tolerated but not embraced.

He fell out with the British government over its refusal to grant him citizenship of the country that was his home for decades, and often threatened to move to France, which gave him the Legion of Honour, its highest civilian award.

Al-Fayed - who could be charming, autocratic, vindictive, and at times wildly outspoken – spent 10 years trying to prove Diana and his son Dodi were murdered when their car crashed in a road tunnel in Paris in 1997 as they tried to outrun paparazzi photographers on motorbikes.

Unsupported by any evidence, according to the inquest into Diana's death, he claimed that she was bearing Dodi's child and accused Prince Philip, the queen's husband, of ordering Britain's security services to kill her to stop her marrying a Muslim and having his baby.

Al-Fayed died on Wednesday, his family said, a day before the 26th anniversary of Dodi and Diana's death.

"Mrs Mohamed Al Fayed, her children and grandchildren wish to confirm that her beloved husband, their father and their grandfather, Mohamed, has passed away peacefully of old age," the family statement read.

While al-Fayed was known for self-invention, exaggeration, and boasting, he was also a central figure in key moments in Britain's recent history.

His rancorous takeover of Harrods in 1985 sparked one of Britain's most bitter business feuds, while in 1994 he caused a scandal with the disclosure that he had paid politicians to ask questions on his behalf in parliament.

Like many billionaires, al-Fayed spurned convention. He once said he wanted to be mummified in a golden sarcophagus in a glass pyramid on the roof of Harrods.

At the store, where he instituted a dress code - even for customers - which he enforced in person, he installed a kitsch bronze memorial statue of Diana and Dodi dancing beneath the wings of an albatross.

As the owner of Fulham, he erected a larger-than-life, sequined statue of Michael Jackson outside the ground even though the singer only attended one match. When people complained, he said: "If some stupid fans don't understand or appreciate such a gift, they can go to hell."

HARRODS TAKEOVER
Much of al-Fayed's past remained murky - even his date of birth. He said he was born in then British-ruled Egypt in 1933. However, a British government inquiry into the Harrods takeover said 1929.

Al-Fayed became resident in Britain in 1974 and added the al to his name. Casting this as self-aggrandisement, the satirical magazine Private Eye nicknamed him the "Phoney Pharaoh".

In 1985 he and his brothers beat businessman Roland "Tiny" Rowland to Harrods, one of the most famous shops in the world.

Al-Fayed hoped that buying the store would win him acceptance in British society. Instead, it led to a series of bitter confrontations.

Rowland took al-Fayed and his brothers to a Department of Trade inquiry, claiming that they had misrepresented their wealth.

The inquiry cast doubt on their origins as part of a wealthy business family, past business connections, and their independent financial resources.

After a quarter of century of ownership, al-Fayed sold Harrods to Qatar's sovereign wealth fund in 2010.

Al-Fayed's application for British citizenship was denied by the government in 1995. He said racism kept him on the fringe of acceptability.

A year earlier, al-Fayed had embarrassed the government by disclosing that he had made gifts and payments to politicians in return for them asking parliamentary questions for him. The so-called "cash-for-questions" scandal ended the careers of four politicians, including one minister.

The allegations of sleaze undermined the Conservatives, who lost a landslide election to Labour leader Tony Blair in 1997.

DIANA AND DODI
That summer, al-Fayed's son Dodi began a relationship with Princess Diana, who had divorced Prince Charles, the heir to the British throne. Dodi and Diana were pictured by British tabloids on holiday on a yacht in the south of France.

After travelling to Paris, the couple were killed when their Mercedes, driven at high speed by a chauffeur who had been drinking whisky and was trying to evade the paparazzi, crashed into a concrete pillar in the Pont de l'Alma tunnel.

Beset by grief and an overwhelming sense of injustice, al-Fayed spent millions on legal battles to ensure there was an inquest.

When it started in London a decade after the crash, al-Fayed would accuse everyone from the royal family, prime minister Blair, Diana's sister Sarah, the French embalmers of Diana's body, and the Paris ambulance drivers of being implicated.

But the jury said the couple were unlawfully killed by their chauffeur's driving. Al-Fayed said he accepted the verdict and gave up legal attempts to show they were murdered.

"I'm leaving the rest for God to get my revenge," he said.



https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/mohamed-al-fayed-harrods-owner-whose-son-dated-princess-diana-dead-94-2023-09-01/?rpc=401&

Everton And Wolves Target Set To Stay Put At Fulham
Everton and Wolves target Harrison Reed is set to stay put at Fulham despite speculation of a transfer on deadline day, according to The Athletic.

Reed's future at Fulham came under the scanner on the final day of the transfer due to interest from at least two Premier League sides.

Wolves were in contact with the player to convince him to move to Molineux after losing Matheus Nunes to Manchester City.

Everton also showed an interest in the Fulham midfielder as the potential replacement for Alex Iwobi, who is expected to join the Cottagers soon.

However, it has been claimed that Reed will not be leaving Fulham before the end of the window tonight.

He attracted interest from two Premier League clubs but no move is imminent for the midfielder.

Wolves failed to convince the player to make the switch to Molineux from Craven Cottage on deadline day.

Everton's interest in Reed never firmed up into a concrete offer and he is now set to stay put at Fulham.



https://insidefutbol.com/2023/09/01/everton-and-wolves-target-set-to-stay-put-at-fulham/619277/

Mohamed Al Fayed: Former Harrods owner dies at 94
Mohamed Al Fayed, the former Harrods boss whose son Dodi was killed in a car crash alongside Diana, Princess of Wales, has died aged 94.

Born in Egypt, he built a business empire in the Middle East before moving to the UK in the 1970s.

However, he never realised his ambition to gain a passport for his adopted country.

He spent his later years questioning the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Dodi and Diana.

Mr Al Fayed had remained largely out of the public limelight in the past decade, living in his Surrey mansion with his wife Heini.

In a statement released on Friday, his family said: "Mrs Mohamed Al Fayed, her children and grandchildren wish to confirm that her beloved husband, their father and their grandfather, Mohamed, has passed away peacefully of old age on Wednesday August 30, 2023.

"He enjoyed a long and fulfilled retirement surrounded by his loved ones."

Fulham Football Club, which Mr Al Fayed owned for many years, said that it was "incredibly saddened to learn" of his death.

"We owe Mohamed a debt of gratitude for what he did for our club, and our thoughts now are with his family and friends at this sombre time," it said in a statement.

His successor at the club, Shahid Khan, expressed his condolences in a tribute on the club's website.

"The story of Fulham cannot be told without a chapter on the positive impact of Mr Al Fayed as chairman," he said.

"His legacy will be remembered for our promotion to the Premier League, a Europa League Final, and moments of magic by players and teams alike."

Mr Khan said Mr Al Fayed was "wise, colourful and committed to Fulham" and that his legacy would "always be at the heart of our tradition" at the club.

Journalist Piers Morgan described Al Fayed as an "extraordinary tour de force of a man who never got over the death of his beloved son Dodi in the crash that also killed Diana", adding that he was a "flawed, complex character" but that he liked him.

Mr Al Fayed rose from selling fizzy drinks on the streets of his native Alexandria in Egypt to become a big name in business with all the right contacts.

His break came after he met his first wife, Samira Khashoggi, the sister of Saudi millionaire arms dealer Adnan Khashoggi - who employed him in his Saudi Arabian import business.

The role helped him forge new connections in Egypt, and although the marriage lasted little more than two years, Mr Al Fayed went on to launch his own a shipping business.

In 1966, he became an adviser to one of the world's richest men, the Sultan of Brunei.

He moved to Britain in 1974 and five years later bought the Paris Ritz hotel with his brother Ali for £20m.

They went on to take over Harrods in 1985 for £615m, following a vicious bidding war with mining conglomerate the Lonrho group.

Under his ownership, Fulham FC rose from the third tier to the Premier League.

He gave generously to charities including Great Ormond Street Hospital and, as a father of five, showed a particular interest in helping underprivileged or unwell children.

He set up the Al Fayed Charitable Foundation in 1987 to better the lives of impoverished, traumatised and very sick youngsters.

It was from his Ritz hotel in Paris that his son Dodi, a film producer, and his then-partner Diana, Princess of Wales, departed, before the car crash which killed them both in 1997.

Mr Al Fayed never recovered from the shock of the crash, becoming obsessed with the speculation surrounding the deaths.

His evidence at the inquest in February 2008 included claims that the deaths were on the orders of Prince Philip and with the connivance of MI6.

They were deemed a "conspiracy theory" by the coroner and rejected by the jury.

Mr Al Fayed twice failed in his attempt to secured British citizenship.

On the second occasion in 1995, angered by the rejection, he told the press that he had paid two Conservative ministers, Neil Hamilton and Tim Smith, to ask questions in the House of Commons about his interests.

They both left the government, and Mr Hamilton, who denied the allegation, also lost a libel case against Mr Al Fayed.

A third politician, Jonathan Aitken, who was then a cabinet minister, also resigned after Mr Al Fayed revealed that he stayed for free at the Ritz in Paris at the same time as a group of Saudi arms dealers.

In 2010, Mr Al Fayed sold Harrods to the sovereign wealth fund of Qatar. Nearly half of the purchase price was used to clear the company's debts.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-66690623

Fulham see second deadline day exit fall through despite agreement for defender weeks ago
Tosin Adarabioyo will now not move to AS Monaco despite agreeing personal terms weeks ago, as there is 'no agreement' between the French side and Fulham for the transfer.

Fulham have already seen one deadline day transfer fall through. They had allowed Joao Palhinha to head to Germany to sign for Bayern Munich while they worked on getting a replacement sorted.

However, as they weren't able to do so, Palhinha did his medical and media duties for no reason, and was forced to head back to Craven Cottage rather than see his £58million deal go through.

That all came quite quickly, with the agreement being reached at the back end of the window. Adarabioyo's deal has now fallen through too, but in a completely different manner.

Indeed, Fabrizio Romano states the defender's move to Monaco is 'OFF', as there was 'no agreement with Fulham'. That'll be a sore subject with the defender given how long he had expected he would become a Monaco player.

In July, it was reported Adarabioyo was nearing an agreement with the French side, and on August 22, with over a week left until the transfer deadline, Fabrice Hawkins reported the deal on personal terms had been reached.

However, as per that same report, Fulham would have preferred to sell him to Tottenham, as they reportedly wanted to acquire the services of Eric Dier.

With that being said, it's unclear whether the Cottagers ever actually expected they would reach an agreement with Monaco, or if they would have denied Adarabioyo the chance of a move unless it was the one they specifically wanted.

There's no suggestion of how much Fulham wanted for him, but it was reported by the Independent that Monaco would 'put a new bid in' once a price was agreed.

That would suggest the Cottagers never gave them a price that they were happy with paying. It seems strange that they would ask for a fee that's unable to be reached, if indeed that is the case, as Adarabioyo is only under contract for another year, so they do need to sell to ensure they receive a fee.

Contract negotiations broke down between the defender and the club recently, so he might walk away for free next summer. With that being said, it's odd that an agreement couldn't be reached, as Fulham should have been desperate to recoup a decent sum.



https://www.football365.com/news/fulham-second-deadline-day-exit-fall-through-agreement-weeks-ago

Arsenal sell-on clause claim emerges as Everton ace Alex Iwobi to join Fulham
Arsenal are not set to benefit from the sale of Everton attacker Alex Iwobi to Fulham, according to Football London.

The English media outlet reported on 1 September (19:37) that he will be moving to Craven Cottage for a £22milion fee on deadline day.

He was signed for £35million by Everton back in 2019 and has since become a key player for them.

Good deal?
At the time, £35million seemed to be quite a lot of money for a player who was struggling and was inconsistent at Arsenal.

However, he quickly emerged as one of the hardest-working players not just at Finch Farm but even on the field of play.

His output may not have been at the levels expected but he certainly did a very good job for the club.

Getting £22million for him is not bad business but not signing a replacement and allowing him to leave this late in the day is bad business.

Sean Dyche will be gutted as he was starting to build a side that was getting the most out of Iwobi.
It does not even seem like they'll be getting any replacement through the door.



https://www.goodisonnews.com/2023/09/01/arsenal-sell-on-clause-claim-emerges-as-everton-ace-alex-iwobi-to-join-fulham/

Mohamed Al-Fayed cause of death revealed by family in heartbreaking statement

Mohamed Al Fayed, the former owner of Harrods and owner of Fulham FC between 1997 and 2013, "passed away peacefully of old age" on Wednesday, said his family

Mohamed Al Fayed's family has paid tribute to the "beloved" Egyptian billionaire and former Harrods owner after his death at the age of 94.

In a statement released by Fulham FC, his family said: "Mrs Mohamed Al Fayed, her children and grandchildren wish to confirm that her beloved husband, their father and their grandfather, Mohamed, has passed away peacefully of old age on Wednesday August 30, 2023.

"He enjoyed a long and fulfilled retirement surrounded by his loved ones. The family have asked for their privacy to be respected at this time."

In the years after the death of his son Dodi Fayed, an Egyptian film producer, alongside Diana, Princess of Wales in a car crash in Paris in 1997, Mr Al Fayed repeatedly claimed they were murdered in a plot by the British establishment.

The billionaire's relationship with the royal family was recently depicted in season five of The Crown, where Mr Al Fayed, played by Salim Daw, was seen getting to know Diana. Mr Al Fayed had taken control of Harrods in 1985 and he had also purchased the Ritz hotel in Paris in 1979; and was known for being the owner of Fulham FC between 1997 and 2013.

The tycoon was the owner and chairman of Fulham between 1997 and 2013 when he sold it to current owner Shahid Khan. The football club said it was "incredibly saddened" by his death.

In a tweet, the west London club said: "Everyone at Fulham was incredibly saddened to learn of the death of our former owner and chairman, Mohamed Al Fayed. We owe Mohamed a debt of gratitude for what he did for our club, and our thoughts now are with his family and friends at this sombre time."

And in a tribute on the club's website, his successor Mr Khan said: "On behalf of everyone at Fulham Football Club, I send my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mohamed Al Fayed upon the news of his passing at age 94.

"The story of Fulham cannot be told without a chapter on the positive impact of Mr Al Fayed as chairman. His legacy will be remembered for our promotion to the Premier League, a Europa League Final, and moments of magic by players and teams alike.

"I always enjoyed my time with Mr Al Fayed, who was wise, colourful and committed to Fulham, and I am forever grateful for his trust in me to succeed him as chairman in 2013. I join our supporters around the world in celebrating the memory of Mohamed Al Fayed, whose legacy will always be at the heart of our tradition at Fulham Football Club."

Self-made billionaire was son of a school inspector

Mohamed Al Fayed was born in the Egyptian city of Alexandria on the Mediterranean, the son of a school inspector. He came to London in the 1960s and set about building a business empire. Once there, the flamboyant and extrovert character was rarely out of the newspapers.

In the 1980s, he hit the headlines as he battled for control of the House of Fraser group, including its flagship store Harrods, with rival tycoon "Tiny" Rowland. Al Fayed and his brother bought a 30% stake in House Of Fraser from Mr Rowland in 1984, and took control of Harrods for £615 million the following year.

Mr Rowland's London and Rhodesian Mining Company (Lonrho) had attempted to buy Harrods but was beaten to it by the Egyptian family. Mr Rowland later accused Al Fayed of breaking into his safety deposit box at the department store.

The Egyptian was arrested in March 1998 along with Harrods security director John Macnamara and four other store staff, but was never charged. Al Fayed later expanded his business interests to include the Paris Ritz and Fulham Football Club.

Massive wealth and business deals

In the past few decades, Mr Al Fayed sold off several of his high-profile businesses. Back in 2010, he sold Harrods to Qatar for a staggering $2.4billion. While he said he would never part ways with his beloved department store, it was a row over dividends and pension funds which finally showed him it was time to say goodbye.

Speaking to the Evening Standard at the time, he said: "Of course it makes me sad ... you can go ask everyone, people don't want me to go. But first of all I can't take this. I am 77 years old, right. I have children, I have grandchildren, you know ... I have done it. And time for me now to rest. And enjoy."

Three years later, in 2013, he also said goodbye to Fulham Football Club, which he sold to billionaire Shahid Khan for $300m. However he remained the proud owner of the famous Ritz Paris Hotel, regarded by many as the most beautiful in the world. In 2016 it underwent a massive refurbishment.

Earlier this year, his wealth was estimated at $2billion (roughly £1.58million), ranking at number 1,493 globally. And in May last year, Forbes listed his wealth at $1.9billion - which is about £1.6billion.

Bond with Princess Diana

While it's unknown where they first met, Princess Diana and Al Fayed's circles would have crossed regularly as he sponsored many of the charities she was involved with. Their unlikely friendship features heavily in season five of The Crown, showing Mr Al Fayed, played by Salim Daw, growing closer to the royals.

In the summer of 1997, the year after Charles and Diana were finally able to officially divorce following their five year separation, Al Fayed invited Diana and her two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, to join his family on his yacht in the south of France.

The 208ft superyacht was the perfect setting for family time, with photos from the time showing the loving mum playing with her sons on the deck . The boat, which has now changed hands, has nine staterooms and can hold 18 people as well as a crew of 26. Dripping in luxury, it boasted a jacuzzi, office, formal dining room and a swim platform.

And it was during this trip that Diana grew close to Al Fayed's oldest son, 42-year-old film producer Dodi. Pictures of the couple cuddling and kissing on the top deck went around the world, while Diana was photographed sunbathing, jumping into a speedboat and sitting on the stern in a contemplative mood.

They were among the last pictures of the Princess, who told her friend Rosa Monckton in a phone call from the yacht that her time there was "bliss".

Fallout with the royals

Al Fayed spent a decade after the lovers' 1997 deaths in Paris's Alma tunnel repeatedly claiming that they were murdered in a plot by the security services and the Duke of Edinburgh. But he was forced to reluctantly concede defeat after a high-profile six-month inquest in 2007 and 2008.

The jury returned unlawful killing verdicts on both Diana and Dodi, but pinned the blame on the drink-driving of their chauffeur Henri Paul, who also died in the crash. Paul was employed by the Paris Ritz, from where their journey had started on August 31, a hotel owned by Mr Al Fayed.

At the end of the inquest, coroner Lord Justice Scott Baker openly voiced suggestions of "closing ranks" at the hotel over the question of whether they knew Paul was drinking on the night of the smash.

The jury had heard allegations, strenuously denied, that key witnesses were pressurised to back Mr Al Fayed's theories and that there was a "conspiracy to pervert the truth" within the Fayed organisation. Al Fayed later announced he would accept the verdict of the inquest jury, albeit "with reservations".

Grieving son's death

Speaking on the 20th anniversary of the crash, a friend told The Sun that Dodi's apartment remains the same as it did at the time of his death.

They told the newspaper: "He often spends hours on end sitting with Dodi. After 20 years he still misses him terribly. And when he is in London he will take time out to visit Dodi's apartment. Not one thing inside has changed since Dodi died. He will not allow anyone to move anything.

"The apartment is cleaned but it is still exactly the same as when Dodi and Diana used to spend time there.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/breaking-familys-tribute-beloved-mohamed-30845547

Fulham pay tribute to Mohamed Al Fayed

Shahid Khan says Cottagers' former owner and chairman leaves a 'great legacy and moments of magic'

Fulham have paid tribute to former owner and chairman Mohamed Al Fayed, who has died at the age of 94.

Al Fayed took over the club in 1997 when it was in the third tier of English football and steered Fulham back to the Premier League within four years.

They stayed in the division for 13 years, and got as far as the UEFA Europa League final, before Al Fayed sold the club to the current owner, Shahid Khan. Khan paid tribute to his predecessor.

"On behalf of everyone at Fulham Football Club, I send my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mohamed Al Fayed upon the news of his passing at age 94," Khan said. "The story of Fulham cannot be told without a chapter on the positive impact of Mr Al Fayed as Chairman.

"His legacy will be remembered for our promotion to the Premier League, a Europa League Final, and moments of magic by players and teams alike. I always enjoyed my time with Mr Al Fayed, who was wise, colourful and committed to Fulham, and I am forever grateful for his trust in me to succeed him as Chairman in 2013.

"I join our supporters around the world in celebrating the memory of Mohamed Al Fayed, whose legacy will always be at the heart of our tradition at Fulham Football Club."

Everyone at the Premier League sends their condolences to Fulham and to Al Fayed's family and friends during this difficult time.



https://www.premierleague.com/news/3664822

Godo heads to Wigan on loan
Young Fulham winger Martial Godo has joined League One Wigan Athletic on loan for the rest of the season.

The former Margate wide man has been in sensational form for Fulham's under-21 side this season, scoring six goals in four games – including in the 3-3 draw against Portsmouth in the Football League Trophy earlier this month. The 20 year-old told the Latics' official website tonight:

"I'm very overwhelmed and excited to get started. It's something that has happened last minute, but I'm just ready to get going. I'm prepared to work hard and help the team as much as I can. Wigan has a beautiful stadium, and the calibre of the club (made me want to join). It's a historical club, and I put my trust in the Gaffer here to help me keep growing as a young player and a professional on and off the pitch."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/godo-heads-to-wigan-on-loan/

Tosin will stay with Fulham
Tosin Adarabioyo will remain with Fulham after his proposed move to AS Monaco fell through this evening.

The 25 year-old ball-playing centre back had made clear his preference to join the Ligue 1 side over Tottenham Hotspur having refused to sign a new contract at Craven Cottage. But Monaco and Fulham were some way apart in their valuation of the former Manchester City defender and he is expected to remain with the Whites for the rest of the season.

The tall defender has made just a single first-team appearance this season – the briefest of cameos in Saturday's 2-2 draw with Arsenal at the Emirates.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/tosin-will-stay-with-fulham/

'Deal Sheet Is In': Sky Sports Reveal Huge Update From Everton as Negotiations Now Given 1 AM Deadline

Fulham have moved into over-time in their attempts to make one last signing to improve Marco Silva's squad after a dramatic deadline day.

Fulham Submit Deal Sheet For Alex Iwobi Signing from Everton
Can the Deal Even Be Done?
Sky Sports have confirmed that Fulham and Everton have ensured that a "deal sheet is put in" with the Premier League officials to extend the window for them to get the Alex Iwobi transfer over the line. A deal sheet is an agreement letter put in by two clubs when they want some extra time to confirm the final details of a transfer.

Instead of the 11 PM BST deadline, the two Premier League clubs have until 1 AM BST (September 2) to get this transfer over the line. Sky Sports claims that this deal "should be confirmed" after the deal sheet was submitted.

The London club are reported to be paying a fee that could reach £22 million for the signing of the ex-Arsenal midfielder, who Everton are ready to let go. However, they need to work hard to exchange all the necessary official documents with the Toffees and agree to all the official contracts before the 1 AM BST deadline in order to officially complete this transaction.

Fulham Involved in Frantic Deadline Day
The Cottagers were involved in a lot of drama on deadline day, as they were ready to sell Joao Palhinha to Bayern Munich before that deal shockingly fell through at the very last moment.

With Palhinha now set to stay, Fulham look to improve their attacking force with the addition of an experienced winger like Iwobi. The 27-year-old made 140 appearances for Everton, scoring nine goals and providing 16 assists in all competitions.



https://lastwordonsports.com/football/2023/09/01/fulham-everton-alex-iwobi-deal-sheet/

Milan loan Origi to Nottingham Forest and Ballo-Toure to Fulham
Milan managed to sneak two exits under the Premier League transfer deadline, sending Fode Ballo-Toure on loan to Fulham and Divock Origi to Nottingham Forest.

The Serie A market closed at 19.00 UK time (18.00 GMT), but they could continue to sell or loan out players.

Even then, they left it extremely late, because it took several hours after the deadline in England at 23.00 UK time (22.00 GMT) for them to be made official.

Under the English rules, if clubs submit the paperwork in time, the details can be filled in later and transfers completed anyway.

It was only past midnight that it emerged Milan had sent full-back Ballo-Toure to Fulham on a one-season loan.

He had been in talks with Fulham last week, as well as Werder Bremen and Bologna, but struggled to agree personal terms.

Meanwhile, after undergoing his medical in the afternoon, Origi got his move to Nottingham Forest right down to the wire and it was only confirmed at 00.40 UK time.

This is reportedly a loan with Nottingham Forest paying his full salary, plus an option to make it permanent for €5m.



https://football-italia.net/milan-loan-origi-to-nottingham-forest-and-ballo-toure-to-fulham/

Fulham submit deal sheet for Iwobi
Fulham have an extra hour to conclude a deal to sign Everton's Alex Iwobi after submitting a deal sheet to the Premier League.

Iwobi, who was brought to Goodison Park by Marco Silva when he was Everton boss in 2019, has been at Motspur Park for most of transfer deadline day after Fulham and his current employers reached a deal for a permanent transfer this morning. The Nigerian international, who has less than a year left on his contract on Merseyside, is keen to reignite his career by returning to London to work under his former manager.

The 27 year-old Nigerian international came through the ranks at Arsenal, making 149 first-team appearances for the Gunners before signing for the Toffees in a deal rumoured to be worth £28m. Iwobi, an ever-present as Everton stayed up on the final day of last season, has been troubled by injury this term but started the opening day defeat at the hands of Fulham at Goodison Park. His versatility is viewed as a positive by Silva, who has been desperate to strengthen his squad throughout the summer.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/fulham-submit-deal-sheet-for-iwobi/

Iwobi Joins Fulham


The Club is delighted to announce the signing of Alex Iwobi from Everton for an undisclosed fee.

Iwobi has agreed a contract until the summer of 2028.

Speaking to FFCtv, the 27-year-old said: "I'm buzzing, I just can't wait to get started, I'm excited to start my journey here.

"Marco Silva spoke to me about the ambitions of the Club, and I'm on board. Hopefully I can bring something to the Club."


Tony Khan added: "I'm happy to welcome Alex Iwobi to Fulham! He's an exciting and versatile player whom we've admired for some time.

"He has experience in the Premier League and in international competition with Nigeria. We're excited that Alex has joined us on a long term contract, and we believe that he'll make a valuable contribution to Marco's squad!

"Come on Fulham!"

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Iwobi moved to England at a young age, and was picked up by Arsenal as a six-year-old.

After moving up through the age groups, Iwobi was handed a first team debut in the League Cup by Arsene Wenger at the beginning of the 2015/16 season, with a Premier League bow following four days later in a 3-0 win at Swansea City.


The teenage Iwobi remained in the senior setup from thereon in, making 21 appearances across all competitions – including in the Champions League – and registering four goal involvements (2G, 2A) in his first three Premier League starts, as the Gunners finished as runners-up.

The next year was another productive one for player and club as they won the FA Cup, while in 2017/18 they reached the League Cup Final and Europa League Semi-Finals.

Arsenal went one better the following season by making it all the way to the Europa League Final. Iwobi was on target in the showpiece event in Baku, but they ended up falling to defeat by London rivals Chelsea.

That was Iwobi's final appearance for the club, departing with a record of 15 goals and 25 assists in 149 appearances.


While in North London, Iwobi had built a reputation as an exciting, technically gifted player who can perform in a variety of attacking midfield roles, with his performances prompting Marco Silva to bring him to Everton in a deal worth £35m.

During a difficult few years for the Toffees, Iwobi's displays were one of the positives, particularly last season when his 10 goal involvements helped the club avoid relegation, and also saw him named Players' Player of the Season.

The nephew of Nigeria icon Jay-Jay Okocha, Iwobi made his debut for the Super Eagles in 2015, and featured in all three of their matches at the 2018 World Cup.

He now has 63 caps for his national side, and has scored 10 goals in that time.




https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/september/02/iwobi-joins-fulham/

Fulham back in for Ballo-Toure
Fulham believe they have completed a deal to take AC Milan full back Fode Ballo-Toure on loan, according to various reports this evening.

The Whites have resurrected their interest in the Senegalese international late on transfer deadline day and submitted a deal sheet to the Premier League just after the 11pm deadline – giving them an extra hour to complete the necessary paperwork. Ballo-Toure was a target for the Londoners earlier in the summer but appeared to turn down a permanent move to Craven Cottage – only for the Evening Standard to suggest that a loan move to Marco Silva's side seems imminent.

Fulham have been seeking cover for Antonee Robinson throughout the summer – and Italian outlets also claimed that sources have told him that both the Premier League outfit and AC Milan are expecting the season-long loan will be ratified by the Premier League. The 26 year-old had been expected to join Bundesliga side Werder Bremen but that deal was not concluded by the same 5pm deadline that scuppered Bayern Muncih's move for Joao Palhinha.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/fulham-back-in-for-ballo-toure/

Fulham finally complete Iwobi deal
Fulham have this morning confirmed the signing of Nigerian international Alex Iwobi from Everton.

The 27 year-old has signed a five-year contract at Craven Cottage and will be reunited with Marco Silva, who took him to Merseyside from Arsenal in 2019. The fee could rise to a total of £22m, according to reports this morning.

Iwobi told Fulham's official website:

"I'm buzzing, I just can't wait to get started, I'm excited to start my journey here. Marco Silva spoke to me about the ambitions of the club, and I'm on board. Hopefully I can bring something to the club."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/fulham-finally-complete-iwobi-deal/

Iwobi Completes Fulham Transfer
Alex Iwobi has completed a permanent move to Fulham for an undisclosed fee.

The 27-year-old Nigerian scored nine goals in 140 appearances for Everton, having signed from Arsenal in the summer of 2019.

Iwobi will link up with former Blues manager Marco Silva at Craven Cottage.

Everton thanks Alex for his service to the Club and wishes him all the best for the future.



https://www.evertonfc.com/news/3664894/iwobi-completes-fulham-transfer

Fulham transfer news: Cottagers sign Alex Iwobi late on transfer deadline day


Fulham have completed the signing of Everton midfielder Alex Iwobi in a deal which could reach £22m.

The 27-year-old Nigeria midfielder joined Everton from Arsenal in the summer of 2019 and made 123 league appearances for the Toffees, scoring six times.

He has signed a five-year deal with Fulham as he links back up with his old Everton boss Marco Silva.

Iwobi said: "I'm buzzing, I just can't wait to get started."

The move went through despite Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha's move to Bayern Munich collapsing earlier in the day.

Meanwhile, Fulham also completed a loan deal for 26-year-old AC Milan and Senegal left-back Fode Ballo-Toure.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/66690044

Kongolo joins Rapid Vienna on loan
Fulham defender Terence Kongolo has joined Rapid Vienna on loan for the remainder of the 2023/24 campaign.

The Dutch international, who has managed just four appearances in as many years at Craven Cottage, could make his debut against Austrian Bundesliga league leaders Red Bull Salzburg on Sunday.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/kongolo-joins-rapid-vienna-on-loan/

Ballo-Touré Arrives On Loan


The Club is delighted to confirm the arrival of Fodé Ballo-Touré from AC Milan.

A 26-year-old left-back, Ballo-Touré has signed on loan for the remainder of the 2023/24 season.

Tony Khan said of the signing: "We also welcome Fodé Ballo-Touré this evening, joining the Club on loan from AC Milan.

"He's a talented left-back with great experience, and his arrival will strengthen the depth of the squad.

"We're pleased that Fodé has joined Marco's squad and is ready to compete for us in the Premier League.

"Come on Fulham!"


Ballo-Touré came through the youth system at Paris-Saint Germain, but made his senior breakthrough after moving to Lille.

His performances in the first half of the 2018/19 season would go on to help Lille to a runners-up spot in Ligue 1, but also paved the way for an €11m move to Monaco in the January.

After two-and-a-half years, and 74 appearances which yielded eight assists, Ballo-Touré sampled a new league with Milan in Serie A.

Within his first year he had a league title to his name, following that up with a run to the Champions League Semi-Finals last season.

Born in France, Ballo-Touré qualifies for Senegal through his mother, making his international debut in 2021, before helping them to win the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in their history the following year.

He now has 15 Senegal caps to his name.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/september/02/ballo-toure-arrives-on-loan/

Fulham loan Ballo-Touré
Fulham have signed AC Milan left-back Fodé Ballo-Touré on a season-long loan deal.

The Senegalese international arrives at Craven Cottage to compete with American international Antonee Robinson for a spot in Marco Silva's starting eleven. The 26 year-old came through the famed Paris Saint-Germain youth academy, but emerged in Ligue 1 after joining Lille.

Ballo-Toure starred as Lille finished second in Ligue 1 in 2019 with the attacking full-back's displays earning him a move to Monaco for a reported £9.5m. After making 74 first-team appearances, Ballo-Touré move to Milan, where he won the Scudetto in his first season and followed that up with a run to the Champions' League semi-finals.

Ballo-Touré has won fifteen senior caps for Senegal, whom he helped win the African Cup of Nations title for the first time last year.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/fulham-loan-ballo-toure/

Godo Joins Wigan On Loan

The Club can confirm that in-form Academy winger Martial Godo has joined Wigan Athletic on a season-long loan.

The 20-year-old has made an electric start to the Academy season, scoring six goals in four games across all competitions. He has already had a taste of playing at League One level, scoring in our dramatic EFL Trophy draw with Portsmouth not long ago.

He joins a side who already sit outside of the bottom four despite starting the campaign with an eight point deduction.

Everybody at Fulham wishes Martial the best of luck for the rest of the season.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/september/01/Godo-Joins-Wigan-On-Loan/

Dibley-Dias Wins Johnny Haynes Award!


The Club is delighted to announce that Matt Dibley-Dias has been awarded the 2022/23 Johnny Haynes Trophy.

The trophy is awarded to the Fulham Supporters' Trust Academy Player of the Year and is voted on by Academy staff and players (U16-23s).

Matt is the fifth winner of the annual award with Tyrese Francois, Jay Stansfield, Fabio Carvalho and Sonny Hilton all previous winners.

Our 19-year-old Brazilian midfielder was excellent last season for our Under-21s and his consistent performances saw him catch the attention of Marco Silva, who included him on the First Team bench towards the end of last season.

He went on to feature, and impress, in all three of our PL Summer Series games against Brentford, Aston Villa and Chelsea.

After picking up the prestigious prize, Dibs told fulhamfc.com: "I'm really happy and honoured to pick up this award.

"The names of the players that have won it before me speaks for itself. You've got players like Fabio [Carvalho], Tyrese [Francois] and Jay [Stansfield] who we all look up to so being a part of that list is a great feeling.

"Looking back, it's been a long journey to get to this point with plenty of ups and downs of course, but I'm working hard and I'm currently at the best place I've been at for a long time so hopefully I can keep progressing."

On the previous winners, he added: "Those players have set the blueprint for everyone else to follow so if I can achieve what any of those boys have then great, but the path for each player is very different so we'll wait and see what happens."

Simon Duke of the Fulham Supporters' Trust added: "We are honoured and delighted to be able to support this award on an annual basis and it's a great honour for Matt because it's voted for by the people that work with him.

"The names on the trophy show how prestigious this award is and it will be really interesting to see how Matt develops at the club. Marco has shown a willingness to allow youngsters an opportunity. If they're good enough, they're old enough.

"We certainly saw that on the pre-season tour in America with how some of those players performed and it's further evidence of the excellent work our Academy does in developing young talent from an early age."

"This is a great achievement for Matt, and an acknowledgement of his excellent season last year," said Academy Director Sean Cullen.

"What makes this even more special is the resilience and determination he had to show, through a difficult period with injuries the year before. To then come back and play at the level he did last year, is testament to his character as much as his technical qualities."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/august/31/Dibley-Dias-Wins-Johnny-Haynes-Award/

Kongolo Heads To Austria

The Club can confirm that Terence Kongolo has joined SK Rapid Wien on loan for the duration of the 2023/24 season.

The team currently sit fourth in the Austrian Bundesliga after five matches, and they next face league leaders Red Bull Salzburg on Sunday.

Everyone at Fulham would like to wish Terence all the best during his time in Vienna.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/september/01/kongolo-heads-to-austria/

How Man City should line-up against Fulham in the Premier League

Manchester City take on Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday and Matheus Nunes could make his debut.

Manchester City are back in Premier League action on Saturday.

The Blues welcome Fulham to the Etihad Stadium as they look to maintain their 100 per cent start of the season before the Premier League goes on pause for the international break. City narrowly defeated Sheffield United with a late Rodri winner last week while the Cottagers secured a last-gasp draw against Arsenal with 10 men.

City have been boosted ahead of the match as Phil Foden and Manuel Akanji are fit to play. John Stones is returning to fitness but it's unlikely he will be risked ahead of the deadline. "Right now, Phil is completely recovered from his illness," Juanma Lillo said. "Manu's problem was more prevention. He's more or less there. John is more or less there as well. We're okay, we're fine. It's not decisive."

Jeremy Doku will be hoping to make his debut after being an unused substitute at Bramall Lane but it's not clear if new signing Matheus Nunes will be involved as he hadn't trained with his new teammates on Friday.

Simon Bajkowski
Phil Foden showed what a game-changer he can be even with illness so he surely deserves a start against Fulham to really show what he can do. Mateo Kovacic has slotted in seamlessly to the City midfield and can continue to grow his partnership with Rodri.

Manu Akanji was the other player missing from Fulham that is back, but as he works his way back to full sharpness there is no need to rush him back because the four defenders who played did a fine enough job (barring Walker's error). Walker is improving at the dual role covering the whole right flank and can have another go here.

(https://i2-prod.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article27637526.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_Si-Fulham.png)

Jack Grealish linked up with Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez has performed very well in previous matches against Fulham. Jeremy Doku and Matheus Nunes will both be hoping for some minutes, although that can come from off the bench.

Joe Bray
The temptation is to throw Jeremy Doku or Matheus Nunes into the mix, but it seems like Nunes in particular would only be involved from the bench, if at all. Doku might be better coming off the bench for his first experience of the Etihad. With Foden and Akanji both available, they are the only players I can see coming back in from the start.

(https://i2-prod.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/incoming/article27636309.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_share22_54ac6394905ba6e9ba6f0d2a3b85e43f.png)

Akanji can play instead of Josko Gvardiol, shifting Nathan Ake over to left-back. Gvardiol hasn't started badly, but can be exploited at left-back and Ake is a safer option. I'd also consider keeping Julian Alvarez in the side after three quietly influential performances.

That means a straight choice between Bernardo and Phil Foden. It sounds like Foden was only on the bench at Sheffield United due to illness, so maybe he comes back in against Fulham. Bernardo has welcomed a new baby this week, so may be a logical option to drop out.

Daniel Murphy
Phil Foden was sublime in a central role against Newcastle but wasn't fit enough to start at Sheffield United after a bout of illness. But now he's back to full health he should come back into the fold, possibly in place of Julian Alvarez.

(https://i2-prod.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article27637410.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_dans-fulham-teamPNG.png)

Otherwise, the team should remain unchanged, even with Manuel Akanji available again after he missed the trip to Bramall Lane.

It's not yet clear if Matheus Nunes will be involved after only arriving on deadline day but it would be good to see Jeremy Doku make his debut off the bench.



https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/man-city-fulham-team-news-27635786

Dibley-Dias wins Johnny Haynes trophy

The Fulham Supporters' Trust are delighted to congratulate midfielder Matt Dibley-Dias on becoming the latest winner of the Johnny Haynes Trophy for academy player of the year for the 2022/23 season.

The trophy, which was the brainchild of Trust member Peter Grinham and is named in honour of Fulham's finest footballer, is awarded after a vote of the playing and coaching staff at the club's category one academy. Dibley-Dias is the fifth winner of the annual award, following in the footsteps of Tyrese Francois, Jay Stansfield, Fabio Carvalho and Sonny Hilton.

The Brazilian teenager made 32 appearances for Fulham's under-21 side last term, scoring two goals and making four more. His emergence as a key player in the Premier League 2 side saw Marco Silva name Dibley-Dias as a substitute at Old Trafford in the senior side's final game of last season against Manchester United. His integration into the first team continued with excellent performances in three of Fulham's Summer Series fixtures during the pre-season tour of America and being included as a substitute in Fulham's win at Goodison Park on the opening day of the 2023/204 campaign.

Having been presented with the Johnny Haynes Trophy by the Trust at Motspur Park yesterday, Dibley-Dias said:

"I'm really happy and honoured to pick up this award. The names of the players that have won it before me speaks for itself. You've got players like Fabio, Tyrese and Jay who we all look up to so being a part of that list is a great feeling. Those players have set the blueprint for everyone else to follow so if I can achieve what any of those boys have then great, but the path for each player is very different so we'll wait and see what happens.

Looking back, it's been a long journey to get to this point with plenty of ups and downs of course, but I'm working hard and I'm currently at the best place I've been at for a long time so hopefully I can keep progressing."

Fulham Supporters' Trust chair Simon Duke added:

"We are honoured and delighted to be able to support this award on an annual basis and it's a great honour for Matt because it's voted for by the people that work with him. The names on the trophy show how prestigious this award is and it will be really interesting to see how Matt develops at the club. Marco has shown a willingness to allow youngsters an opportunity. If they're good enough, they're old enough. We certainly saw that on the pre-season tour in America with how some of those players performed and it's further evidence of the excellent work our Academy does in developing young talent from an early age."

Fulham academy director Sean Cullen commended Dibley-Dias for both his progression as a footballer over the past year, but also the character the nineteen year-old has shown to put injury setbacks behind him. He said:

"This is a great achievement for Matt, and an acknowledgement of his excellent season last year. What makes this even more special is the resilience and determination he had to show, through a difficult period with injuries the year before. To then come back and play at the level he did last year, is testament to his character as much as his technical qualities."

You can read more about the Trust's support of Fulham's academy, the Johnny Haynes Trophy and the previous winners here.



https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2023/09/dibley-dias-wins-johnny-haynes-trophy/

Phil Foden and Manuel Akanji to return, new signings on the bench – Predicted XI: Manchester City vs Fulham (Premier League)

The reigning Premier League champions host Fulham at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday afternoon as Manchester City look to maintain their 100 per cent start.

City are looking to follow up from their late win at Bramall Lane last weekend by claiming another three points before the upcoming international break – the first pause for international competitions so far this season.

It has been a flawless start for the treble-winners, acclaiming victory in all four matches this season, as they look to earn a fifth consecutive win, regaining their place at the summit of the Premier League table prior to the imminent hiatus.

Both clubs were active on deadline day; with Fulham strengthening their squad following the arrival of Alex Iwobi from Everton, while Manchester City announced the signing of Matheus Nunes from Wolves.

The arrival of Nunes left a question as to whether the midfielder would be involved on Saturday, however Manchester City assistant manager Juanma Lillo revealed the 25-year-old didn't train with the first-team ahead of this weekend.

The Sky Blues did receive a boost to their squad however, with Lillo confirming the return of Manuel Akanji and Phil Foden.

While there are question marks around the possibility of seeing Nunes feature on Saturday, there's no uncertainty regarding Jeremy Doku, who looks set to make his debut at the Etihad Stadium following the Belgian's arrival from Stade Rennais.

After not featuring against Sheffield United, the right-winger may get his first minutes at the Etihad Stadium against Fulham on Saturday afternoon.

With that being said, here is the Manchester City side we predict to start against Fulham!

Predicted XI:
Ederson will keep his place between the sticks.

Kyle Walker crucially amended his error against Sheffield United with a determined piece of play, and we expect him to retain his place within the side.

Ruben Dias has been an integral part of the early success this season, putting his body on the line at a vital moment last Sunday. We expect the Portugal international to partner the returning Manuel Akanji in defence for the Blues.

We also expect Josko Gvardiol to continue his run of starts and keep his place in the side.

Rodrigo was the match-winner at Bramall Lane, and so we expect him to retain his position and start on Saturday.

Mateo Kovacic had another impressive display before being replaced by Phil Foden, but we predict the pair will start together against Fulham, completing the midfield.

Bernardo Silva made his first start since extending his City contract last Sunday, and we expect him to start on the right of attack – before we see an outing for new signing Jeremy Doku.

It was a mixed afternoon for Erling Haaland, who was left frustrated before he got his goal at Bramall Lane, but we look set to see the newly-crowned UEFA Men's Player of the Year start again and hopefully build on his goal tally.

Jack Grealish provided the assist for Haaland's opener against Sheffield United, and we expect Grealish to keep his starting place, completing the line-up for Saturday's match!

Predicted XI: Ederson; Walker, Dias, Akanji, Gvardiol; Rodrigo, Kovacic, Foden; Bernardo, Haaland, Grealish.

Substitutes: Ortega, Lewis, Ake, Gomez, Phillips, Nunes, Bobb, Doku, Alvarez.



https://cityxtra.co.uk/5969/phil-foden-and-manuel-akanji-to-return-predicted-xi-manchester-city-vs-fulham-premier-league/

Quote from: WhiteJC on January 01, 1970, 05:42:16 AMThe Cottagers raided Wolves over the summer, taking Raul Jimenez and Adam Traore to Craven Cottage and goalkeeper Steven Benda arrived from Fulham.



https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com/2023/9/1/23855395/manchester-city-v-fulham-the-opposition

Great reporting.

 Predictions v Fulham

With VERY little time due to other commitments, it's straight to it. I very-nearly didn't get the chance to do a pre-match piece at all until I then woke up at 'stupid O'clock' this morning.

I intend to get a blog-posting out tomorrow too, looking at all of our summer incoming & outgoing players & prices etc.

v Fulham
Predicted line-up, subs and outcome:

(Number correct from the starting line-up in the last game: 9/11).

A very fluid 4-1-4-1 / 4-2-3-1 / 4-3-3:

____________________Haaland____________________

 

 

Grealish___________________________________Silva

_____________________________Foden____________

___________Kovacic_____________________________

 

_____________________Rodri_____________________

Gvardiol__________________________________Walker

____________Ake________________Dias____________

 

 

____________________Ederson____________________

Subs: Ortega, Gomez, Lewis, Akanji, Phillips, Nunes, Bobb, Doku, Alvarez.

Ederson is 'between the sticks'.

With one defender still out and another just coming back from a brief illness, I think we'll see a back 4 of Josko, Nathan, Ruben & Kyle, as per our last game. In fact, I think we'll only see one change from our last outing...

Rodders to position himself the deepest of our midfielders, apart from when he might fancy another pop at our opponent's goal, of course; Jack, Mateo, Phil & Barnardo provide more of the creative, attacking threat ahead of the Spaniard.

Erling to 'go again' up front.

There's a bit of a doubt about who might make the bench but here goes...

Stefen is a cert to be our back-up stopper; likewise Sergio & Rico as defensive replacement options. Manuel has now recovered from his gastric issues and so, I'm guessing, will be strong enough for a place on the bench as opposed to being a starter. Kalvin, possibly latest signing, Matheus, but doubtful, Oscar & recent-signing, Jeremy make up the midfielders / wingers on the side, while Julian steps back, I recon, as a striker replacement option for this one.



http://blue-chews-daze.blogspot.com/2023/09/predictions-v-fulham.html

Sources: Alex Iwobi agrees Fulham move after rejecting 'huge' Everton offer
Alex Iwobi agreed a last-gasp move to Fulham after rejecting multiple new contract offers from Everton, sources have told Football Insider.

The Cottagers announced the capture of the midfielder, 27, in the early hours of Saturday (2 September) – after the window had formally shut.

It is believed Fulham and Everton agreed a fee of around £22million for Iwobi.

Ultimately, the Merseysiders were forced to cash in on the former Arsenal star as he had entered the last year of his contract and had turned down multiple offers to extend his deal.

Everton were close to an agreement with the star earlier in the window and was offered what is said by sources to have been a "huge" offer to extend.

But Iwobi eventually knocked that back and instead chose to return to London in the closing stages of the window.

Everton also let Jean-Philippe Gbamin, Neal Maupay and Tom Cannon depart the club on Friday (1 September).

Iwobi started in the Toffees' first two games of the season but has missed the last two outings with a hamstring injury.

He notched two goals and nine assists in 41 appearances across all competitions for the Goodison Park club last season as Sean Dyche's side survived relegation.

The ex-Arsenal star, who joined Everton in 2019, can play on both flanks and even as a central midfielder.

Fulham also added the likes of Calvin Bassey, Timothy Castagne, Raul Jimenez and Adama Traore in the summer window.

Marco Silva's side also managed to keep Joao Palhinha at the club despite late interest from Bayern Munich.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/sources-alex-iwobi-agrees-fulham-move-after-rejecting-huge-everton-offer/

Official: Fulham confirm signing of AC Milan outcast Ballo-Toure on loan
Fulham have announced the signing of Fode Ballo-Toure on a season-long loan, having completed the paperwork late last night. In the end, it was the best move available for all of the parties.

AC Milan had been in talks with Fulham during the summer over a permanent deal and they even had an agreement in principle. However, Ballo-Toure rejected the destination up until yesterday, which prompted the loan switch.

On their website, Fulham have confirmed the signing of the Senegalese international: "The Club is delighted to confirm the arrival of Fodé Ballo-Touré from AC Milan. A 26-year-old left-back, Ballo-Touré has signed on loan for the remainder of the 2023/24 season," the statement read.

The English side are expected to cover the player's entire salary (only €1m per season net) and this will save Milan some money for the current season. It remains to be seen if a permanent deal will be worked out with Fulham after the loan, but the player is not expected to return to San Siro.

Milan have decided to rely on Alessandro Florenzi and the youngster Davide Bartesaghi as backups for the left-back role this season, hence why they didn't bring in a left-back.

Milan have now also confirmed the exit on their website.



https://sempremilan.com/official-fulham-signing-milan-ballo-toure-loan

Fulham sign Alex Iwobi from Everton late on deadline day in deal worth up to £22million... as Nigeria international reveals why he is 'buzzing' to be reunited with former boss Marco Silva

    Alex Iwobi signed for Fulham in deal worth £22m late on deadline day
    The Nigeria international played 123 Premier League games for Everton
    Fulham complete the signing despite keeping Joao Palhinha at the club

Alex Iwobi will be reunited with Marco Silva at Craven Cottage after Fulham completed the signing of the Everton midfielder in a deal which could be worth £22million.

The Nigeria international signed a five-year deal with the Cottagers and said Silva had been instrumental in convincing him to move back to London.

'I'm buzzing, I just can't wait to get started, I'm excited to start my journey here,' he told Fulham's official website.

Alex Iwobi will be reunited with Marco Silva at Craven Cottage after Fulham completed the signing of the Everton midfielder in a deal which could be worth £22million.

The Nigeria international signed a five-year deal with the Cottagers and said Silva had been instrumental in convincing him to move back to London.

'I'm buzzing, I just can't wait to get started, I'm excited to start my journey here,' he told Fulham's official website.

'Marco Silva spoke to me about the ambitions of the Club, and I'm on board. Hopefully I can bring something to the Club.'

Silva brought Iwobi to Everton from Arsenal in the summer of 2019, but the Portuguese was dismissed three months later with the Toffees 18th on the table.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/09/02/08/74985881-12472889-image-a-15_1693641401268.jpg)
Alex Iwobi has signed for Fulham from Everton in a £22m deal late on deadline day

In four seasons at the club, Iwobi made 123 Premier League appearances for Everton, scoring six times. He was named Players' Player of the Season and was one of the Toffees' best players as Everton narrowly avoided relegation.

The 27-year-old played the whole 90 minutes as Everton lost 1-0 at home to Fulham on the opening day of the Premier League season.

But he picked up a hamstring injury in Everton's 4-0 loss against Aston Villa and missed his former club's 1-0 defeat at home to Wolves last week.   

The Nigeria international arrived at Craven Cottage, despite Joao Palhinha's move to Bayern Munich collapsing earlier on deadlined day.

The German club put in an initial offer of £47m, though this was subsequently rejected by the London club - who priced him at £90m initially.

The move fell through as the London club were unable to find a replacement in time - not helped by the German window closing earlier than the English one.

Fulham wanted to keep Palhinha, though the player was ready to leave. Bayern made a bid which would 'easily' have smashed Fulham's transfer record - up to £70m.

The Cottagers also completed a loan deal for AC Milan and Senegal left-back Fode Ballo-Toure.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/09/02/08/74985439-0-image-a-2_1693639668027.jpg)
The Nigeria international will be reunited with Marco Silva, who signed him at Everton
 
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/09/02/08/74985883-12472889-image-a-17_1693641414459.jpg)
Iwobi has penned a five-year deal with the Cottages after signing late on Friday
 
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/09/02/08/74985435-12472889-image-a-18_1693641434722.jpg)
The Nigeria international made 123 Premier League appearances for Everton, scoring six times

The 26-year-old managed just 26 appearances in all competitions for the Serie A giants in the past two seasons after joining from Monaco.

Meanwhile, Everton also parted ways with Tom Cannon on Friday, with the striker joining Leicester City for an undisclosed fee.

Cannon first joined the Toffees' academy aged 10 and made his senior team debut against Bournemouth in November last year, before spending the second half of last season on loan in the Championship at Preston North End where he scored eight goals in 21 appearances.

'Everyone at Everton wishes Tom all the best for the future,' the club said in a statement.




https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12472889/Fulham-Alex-Iwobi-Everton-deadline-day-Marco-Silva.html

Up next: Manchester City (a)
After emerging unbeaten from a week that saw his side take on Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur and somehow securing the services of João Palhinha for another at least another four months, Marco Silva's attention turns to the dauting prospect of travelling to Manchester to take on the league leaders, who look as devastating as they did when winning the treble last term. Fulham pushed Pep Guardiola's side all the way in both fixtures last term – and the stoppage-time defeat at the Etihad Stadium, courtesy of a contentious penalty earned by Kevin de Bruyne, still stings.

A brooding Silva will almost certainly be dismayed that his playing squad wasn't strengthened by significant additions on transfer deadline day. He has been reunited with Alex Iwobi, whom he signed from Arsenal when he was in charge of Everton, whilst a last-gasp loan deal for AC Milan left back Fodé Ballo-Touré also went through but Fulham failed to replace Aleksandar Mitrovic despite having more than three weeks to sign another striker after the Serbian number nine departed for Saudi Arabia in acrimonious circumstances.

The collapse of Palhinha's proposed move to Bayern Munich might have caused an outbreak of joy amongst the Fulham fanbase yesterday evening, but any joy was shortlived. Silva and his coaching staff will now have to reintegrate the Premier League's tenacious tackler, who will be perturbed by the failure of his big-money move, into his first-team squad but they are entitled to feel underwhelmed at Fulham hierarchy's floundering which has left London's oldest professional club unable to build on their best season in fifteen years.

Silva will send his charges out to take on City safe in the knowledge that getting a result is a ridiculously tall order. They can draw heart from two terrific displays in the past seven days. Fulham somehow eeked out a draw at the Emirates last weekend despite being 2-1 – and a man – down with three minutes to play. They did produced their best football of a tricky start to the season in the draw against Spurs on Tuesday night before triumphing on penalties, something that must be celebrated given the Whites' woeful record from twelve yards. But Silva is not someone for resting his laurels, as we have already seen. He will want his team to prove their Premier League credentials against this afternoon.

The task is made harder by a series of injury concerns in central midfield – combined by that failure to get bodies in. Sasa Lukic, who put in probably his finest performance in a Fulham shirt against the Gunners, is out whilst Tom Cairney will need a late fitness test on the knee problem that he picked up against Spurs and it is remains to be seen whether Palhinha is in the right frame of mind to face the champions. His old mentor might have no chance but to play him only hours after he was filming an announcement video at the Allianz Arena. Brazilian winger Willian is also ruled out with a thigh complaint.

Silva does at least have both Tim Ream and Calvin Bassey available again after their recent red cards and it will be straight choice between the pair as to who partners Issa Diop, who was immense at Arsenal. The Whites have held onto Tosin Adarabioyo after the former Manchester City defender's move to Monaco also fell through on deadline day, whilst Timothy Castagne is also available having signed too late to make his debut against Spurs on Tuesday.

The Whites will need to be at their very best to record their first win over City in twenty attempts since a brace from Clint Dempsey and a superb strike from Dickson Etuhu secured a stunning success for Roy Hodgson's side at Eastlands in 2009. The hosts, looking equal their own English league record for their most wins against a domestic (currently fifteen against Watford, if you were wondering), could welcome Phil Foden back to the starting line-up after the England playmaker shrugged off sickness to set up the winner at Sheffield United as a second half substitute. John Stones and Manuel Akanji are available again, but Guardiola himself will again be absent as he recovers from back surgery with touchline duties in the hands of his loyal lieutenant Juanma Lillo.

MY FULHAM XI (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, A. Robinson, Diop, Ream; Reed, Palhinha; Traore, Decordova-Reid, Pereira; Jimenez. Subs: Rodak, Bassey, Castagne, Francois, Cairney, Harris, Wilson, Vinicius, Muniz.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/up-next-manchester-city-a-4/

Monaco ready to wait a year to sign Man City-trained Super Eagles prospect for free
The anticipated transfer of Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham to AS Monaco has been cancelled, Soccernet.ng reports.

However, despite this setback, AS Monaco remain determined to secure Adarabioyo's services, albeit with a twist – they plan to sign him for free next summer. [via ASMFC]

Tottenham and Monaco had emerged as the top contenders vying for the signature of the Manchester City-trained defender.

Fulham were inclined towards negotiating with Tottenham, who were willing to meet their financial demands. However, the player himself had his sights set on joining Monaco.

After days of negotiations, Fulham had finally opened the door to the departure of the talented defender. This development buoyed AS Monaco's hopes of striking a deal.

However, the crux of the matter remained unchanged – Fulham did not budge from their €15 million valuation of Adarabioyo. This figure proved to be a stumbling block for his move to Ligue 1.

As a result, Adarabioyo will continue to wear Fulham's colors. However, with only one year left on his contract, Les Monegasques are plotting a strategic move. They aim to secure the player's services on a free transfer next summer, capitalising on his contract situation.

For Adarabioyo, staying put at Fulham means that he will now focus on earning a spot in manager Marco Silva's plans. He faces stiff competition, notably from Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey, who recently joined from Ajax, for one of the two coveted center-back positions.

Notably, Fulham have strengthened their midfield by acquiring dynamic Super Eagles playmaker Alex Iwobi just before the transfer deadline.

Iwobi and Bassey could play pivotal roles in influencing Adarabioyo's international allegiance. Although the England-born defender has shown inclinations towards representing Nigeria, he has yet to announce his decision formally.



https://soccernet.ng/2023/09/monaco-ready-to-wait-a-year-to-sign-man-city-trained-super-eagles-prospect-for-free.html

Report: Palhinha Deal Falls Through As Bayern Fans Rage
The Paradox of Choice: Fulham, Joao Palhinha, and the Deal That Never Was

The Intricacies of a Deadline Day Drama
Even for a seasoned football aficionado, the deadline-day theatre eclipses the realms of believability. The case of Joao Palhinha serves as a masterclass in the anatomy of a transfer that stumbled on the finish line. The Portuguese midfield maestro, so close to kissing the Bavarian turf at the Allianz Arena, now finds himself back in the bosom of the Thames-side outfit Fulham.

Palhinha was all but ready to put pen to paper. He had "spent much of Friday in Munich undergoing a medical and was even spotted wandering around the club's training ground with a home shirt in hand ready to take pictures for his unveiling," according to 90min. Yet, the deal never materialised.

Why Fulham Pulled the Plug: The Replacement Conundrum
It's not every day a club halts a player's transfer after he's had a medical with a footballing giant like Bayern Munich. But, for Fulham, the impediment lay not in letting go, but in the impending emptiness that would follow. They'd cast their eyes on potential replacements like Tottenham's Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Leicester City's Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. Still, no deal could be struck in time.

Fulham were unable to line up a replacement, which meant that they were reluctant to sign off on Palhinha's exit and his move to Germany collapsed at the last minute, as reported by 90min. As a result, Palhinha will be resuming his duties in the heart of Fulham's midfield, albeit with a tinge of 'what might have been'.

Fan Frustration: An Indelible Stain on Fulham's Reputation?
Naturally, the contingent of Bayern fans has voiced their vexation. One passionate supporter didn't hold back, stating that they would keep an eye on the Londoners' results and hoped that they got relegated. As the team strives to progress, the story of a deal almost done could potentially reverberate in the stands of Craven Cottage and beyond.

Ryan Gravenberch's Move to Liverpool: Bayern's Consolation Prize
Despite the unfulfilled saga around Palhinha, Bayern did not leave the transfer window entirely empty-handed. They were happy to let Ryan Gravenberch move on to Liverpool, suggesting that their transfer strategy, while not infallible, have alternatives in place.

The Road Ahead: Where Does Fulham Go From Here?
For Fulham, the non-transfer of Joao Palhinha may feel like both a victory and a defeat. While they retain a proven asset, there are questions over morale and commitment that need to be addressed. As for Palhinha himself, he's got a career to refocus on, a fan base to win over again, and above all, a point to prove. The deadline-day drama may have subsided, but its aftermath will undoubtedly reverberate through the remainder of the season.



https://eplindex.com/95855/report-palhinha-deal-falls-through-as-bayern-fans-rage.html

Ligue 1 Star Rejected Idea Of Deadline Day Fulham Move
Fulham's last-gasp effort to lure away Lyon midfielder Maxence Caqueret was rebuffed by the player himself on deadline day, it has been claimed in France.

Cottagers boss Marco Silva was keen on making room for a holding midfielder in the dying hours of deadline day, with Joao Palhinha poised to join Bayern Munich.

And Caqueret who can play both as a central and defensive midfielder on the pitch, fitted the bill at Craven Cottage.

The London outfit did make an offer for the Lyon star on deadline day, which was an important one financially.

However, according to French sports daily L'Equipe, the player himself gave the cold shoulder to the offer made by Silva's side.

Caqueret, 23, is a midfield mainstay for Lyon this season and he has already featured in three Ligue 1 games for the French giants.

He has still four years remaining on his contract with the Ligue 1 side and could see his suitors lining up for him in the January transfer window.

Fulham's failure to sign a defensive midfielder saw the plug pulled on Bayern Munich's swoop for Palhinha.



https://insidefutbol.com/2023/09/02/ligue-1-star-rejected-idea-of-deadline-day-fulham-move/619302/

Alex Iwobi signs for Fulham in £22m deal
Alex Iwobi, the former Arsenal winger, has finalised a £22m move to Fulham.

The transfer will have repercussions for his current club Everton, and interestingly, for his former club, Arsenal, who stand to miss out on a sell-on fee.

    Alex Iwobi is finalising a £22m move to Fulham, a move that impacts both Everton and Arsenal.
    Everton considered West Ham's Maxwel Cornet as a potential replacement for Iwobi but could not get a deal over the line.
    Arsenal will not benefit from a sell-on clause due to the reduced fee of the transfer.

Alex Iwobi, the 27-year-old Nigeria international, was not keen on extending his contract with Everton. This, coupled with Everton's lacklustre performance in the Premier League, made the winger's transfer almost inevitable.

Iwobi's move to Fulham suggests a step up the Premier League table. While Everton hovered around the relegation zone in the past seasons, Fulham have displayed promising signs since their promotion back to the Premier League.

Arsenal will not benefit from a sell-on clause due to the deal's structure.

Iwobi's transfer from Arsenal to Everton in 2019 was valued at about £28m plus £7m in add-ons, meaning that the Gunners sold him well above market value at the time.

The forward's stats tell a tale of consistent but not spectacular performance; during his time at Arsenal, he appeared in 149 games, scoring 15 goals and assisting 25 times.

At Everton, he has tallied 140 games, netting nine goals and contributing 16 assists.

Alex Iwobi on his move
Iwobi's transfer from Arsenal to Everton in 2019 was valued at about £28m plus £7m in add-ons, meaning that the Gunners sold him well above market value at the time.

The forward's stats tell a tale of consistent but not spectacular performance; during his time at Arsenal, he appeared in 149 games, scoring 15 goals and assisting 25 times.

At Everton, he has tallied 140 games, netting nine goals and contributing 16 assists.
Alex Iwobi on his move



https://dailycannon.com/2023/09/alex-iwobi-fulham-transfer-22m-deal/

Alex Iwobi 'buzzing' to ditch Everton for Fulham as BBC man reveals why Toffees were 'forced into sale'
Alex Iwobi has spoken of his delight after departing Everton for Fulham in a deal that just about beat the transfer deadline in a move that will cost the Cottagers a fee of £22m.

The Nigerian winger departs Goodison Park after four years on Merseyside, returning to his London routes after coming through the academy at Arsenal. He made 140 appearances for the Toffees, scoring nine times.

A regular in their side, his exit was one of four deadline day exits for Everton, with Neal Maupay returning to Brentford and Jean-Philippe Gbamin having his contract terminated by mutual consent. Tom Cannon also signed for Leicester for an undisclosed fee.

Unfortunately for the Toffees, they did not manage a new arrival of their own on transfer deadline day. However, Everton can be fairly satisfied given the much-needed capture of Beto from Udinese earlier in the week, with the Portuguese striker already looking an impressive addition.

Iwobi's exit sees Everton securing a fee that could be worth up to £22m. The 27-year-old has signed a five-year deal at Craven Cottage and he admits he is delighted to be reunited with manager Marco Silva.

"I'm buzzing, I just can't wait to get started, I'm excited to start my journey here," he told Fulham's official website.

"Marco Silva spoke to me about the ambitions of the club, and I'm on board. Hopefully I can bring something to the Club."

Iwobi did not sign in time to make his debut in Saturday's trip to face European champions Manchester City. However, he could debut if he recovers from his current hamstring injury when the Cottagers return to action after the international break when they host Luton.

Everton backed into a corner over Alex Iwobi sale
Everton had been keen to sign a new winger this summer with a prolonged pursuit of Willy Gnonto from Leeds ultimately counting for nothing.

The Toffees did manage to bring in Jack Harrison, though, from the Whites. The loss of Iwobi, however, on deadline day – the winger was one of their best players last season in their successful fight against relegation – leaves Sean Dyche with another hole in his squad.

However, BBC Sport's Phil McNulty says Everton were left with no option but to cash in on the 63-times capped Nigeria forward.

He has revealed that, with Everton "strapped for cash" they were backed into the sale of the player once it became apparent he "won't sign a new contract" at Goodison Park. And with just 10 months left on that deal, the Toffees will relatively happy to have received the £22m offer from Fulham.

Furthermore, once Silva came calling, McNulty reports that Iwobi made it clear to Everton bosses that he wanted to make the move back to London and sign for a side who finished a progressive 10th in their first season back in the Premier League last season.



https://www.teamtalk.com/news/alex-iwobi-buzzing-ditch-everton-for-fulham-bbc-man-reveals-why-toffees-forced-into-sale

Official: Ballo-Touré leaves Milan and joins Fulham on a one-year loan deal
Fodé Ballo-Touré will play in the Premier League next season, but Fulham don't have an option to buy.

Ballo-Touré knew at the start of the summer that he was no longer part of the plans of Stefano Pioli, but Milan struggled to find a new place for him as the offers that arrived were insufficient.

However, the transfer deadline day proved useful and in the very last moments of it, Milan and Fulham reached an agreement over the left-back.

Milan has announced the transfer of Fodé Ballo-Touré to Fulham FC, on loan until 30 June 2024. The Rossoneri wish Fodé the best for next season," a statement reads.

The Senegal international has a contract with Milan until 2025.



https://www.rossoneriblog.com/2023/09/02/official-ballo-toure-leaves-milan-and-joins-fulham-on-a-one-year-loan-deal/

Mohamed Al Fayed: Tributes paid to former owner of Harrods and Fulham FC

Former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed has been described as "an extraordinary tour de force" after his death at the age of 94.

Mr Al Fayed, who was owner and chairman of Fulham Football Club for 16 years, died on Wednesday. His family announced on Friday he had "passed away peacefully of old age".

Paying tribute, journalist and presenter Piers Morgan said the Egyptian-born businessman had struggled to come to terms with the death of his son Dodi in the car crash which also killed Diana, Princess of Wales in Paris in August 1997.

Writing on X, formerly known as Twitter, Mr Morgan said: "An extraordinary tour de force of a man who never got over the death of his beloved son Dodi in the crash that also killed Diana.

"Mohamed wasn't everyone's cup of tea and he was a flawed, complex character, but I liked him."

Shahid Khan, who took over as owner of Fulham in 2013 after a spell which had seen the club rise to the Premier League and reach the Europa League final, paid his condolences in a statement on the club's website.

He said: "The story of Fulham cannot be told without a chapter on the positive impact of Mr Al Fayed as chairman.

"I always enjoyed my time with Mr Al Fayed, who was wise, colourful and committed to Fulham, and I am forever grateful for his trust in me to succeed him as chairman.

"I join our supporters around the world in celebrating the memory of Mohamed Al Fayed, whose legacy will always be at the heart of our tradition at Fulham Football Club."

The family statement said Mr Al Fayed "enjoyed a long and fulfilled retirement surrounded by his loved ones".

According to Sky News, a funeral was held after Friday prayers at London Central Mosque in Regent's Park.

Mr Al Fayed, who was portrayed by Salim Daw in the fifth series of The Crown, repeatedly claimed his son and the late princess were murdered in a plot by the British establishment.

Born in Alexandria in Egypt, he came to London in the 1960s taking control of Harrods in 1985 – which he sold to Qatar's royal family for a reported £1.5 billion in 2010 – having purchased the Ritz hotel in Paris in 1979.

He made his first application for British citizenship in 1993 and in 1999, weeks after his brother Ali was granted British citizenship, but was declared unfit to hold a British passport by then-home secretary Jack Straw.

Mr Al Fayed appealed against the decision and Lords Justice Nourse, Kennedy and Rix dismissed Mr Al Fayed's appeal that Mr Straw had been biased when he refused the citizenship application.

He had previously been rejected in 1993 by former home office minister Charles Wardle who joined the Harrods board of directors in 2000, a move which came as a surprise to some.

The Sunday Times Rich List from 2021 reported that Mohamed Al-Fayed and family were worth around £1.7 billion.

Hannah Roberts and Rob Freeman – PA



https://www.cityam.com/mohamed-al-fayed-tributes-paid-to-former-owner-of-harrods-and-fulham-fc/

Manchester City v Fulham: Head to Head
The Stats Ahead of the Big Weekend Match

Manchester City welcome Fulham to the Etihad Stadium as they attempt to go into the international break with a 100% Premier League record. Victory against the Cottagers will see the blues take maximum points from their first four games and leave them flying high at the top of the table.

Fulham will be looking for their second win of the season and, in doing so, will break the blues stranglehold over the visitors, as the stats will now show.

City's Impressive Hold Over Fulham
The blues are unbeaten in 12 home matches against Fulham and have won the last nine. During that impressive run, the blues have scored 27 goals and conceded just two. Worryingly for blues fans, the two conceded have come in their last two matches.

In the Premier League era, City have lost just three of their 21 matches, including two successive losses in 2008 (2-3) and 2009 (1-3). Prior to the Premier League, the two met 17 times, with the blues winning 11 to Fulham's 3. There have only been seven draws in total in Manchester, the last coming in February 2011.

Usually Goals in This Fixture
City have hit 27 goals in the last 12 matches, however, the blues have scored many more since their first meeting in 1908. The blues have scored 93 while conceding 39. During that time, City have kept 15 clean sheets to Fulham's 2. The last time Fulham stopped City from scoring was March 2004, while the only other time was September 1983 - both were goalless draws.

City have hit at least four goals in this fixture on seven occasions, twice hitting five goals. Fulham have hit five past City just once - a 5-3 win in October 1938. In three out of Fulham's six wins, they have hit three goals, twice winning 3-2.

September Blues For Fulham
The two have met six times in September, with City winning four, losing one and drawing one.

They have met once on 2nd September and the omens are good for the blues - they won 3-1 at Maine Road in 1959.

How will the blues fair on Saturday?



https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com/2023/9/2/23856077/manchester-city-v-fulham-head-to-head

Manchester City v Fulham - Gut Feelings
How Our Team See Saturday's Match

Well, the dreaded international break has come around quickly, and the blues must let most of their team go for these pointless matches. I do remember a time when footballers would play a match on Saturday, play for England in midweek, then turn out for their club the following Saturday. Admittedly, England won nothing btu since the international break came along, we've still won nothing!

Anyway, rant over, sorry, back to the Fulham match. The blues have held the upper hand over the Cottagers and are unbeaten in the last 12 at home. You can read the full stats on this fixture here.

Will they make it 13? Our team seem to think so. Here's their gut feelings and predictions for today.

Saul
Fun match vs a good side. City should be all near fitness and so I see a clean win at home. 2-0.

City 2-0 Fulham

Thomas
In their last 12 visits to the Etihad, Fulham have no wins and two draws. City have beaten the Cottagers in each of the last 14 meetings across all competitions. That is to say, there is a clear trend between the two clubs. I fully expect that trend to continue. City have yet to drop a point and I don't see that happening in this match. Phil Foden is restored to the starting line-up and Alvarez and Harland get a goal-a-piece. City win 2-0.

City 2-0 Fulham

Dillon
Fulham have clearly shown to be decent side so far this season. Their lone loss came to Brentford after an iffy red put them down to 10 men. Other than that it's been solid performances against Everton, Arsenal and Spurs. I wouldn't even classify this as a "banana-slip" game because Fulham have clearly shown their ability so far this season.

All that being said, City have no excuse to not walk away with three points and stay top of the table heading into the break. Little worried about Fulham just packing it in away from Craven Cottage, and Pep still being sidelined, but it'll be a good test. Manchester City 2-0 Fulham.

City 2-0 Fulham

Pete
Fulham have been given a boost with Joao Palhina's move to Bayern Munich collapsing on transfer deadline day. The Portuguese midfielder scored in the 2-2 draw at Arsenal last week and Fulham fans will be delighted he has stayed at the club. The Cottagers gave us a bit of a scare last season and, while they're a decent side, I think City may have too much for them. Jeremy Doku may make his home debut and this might be a good match for him to show what he can do. I don't think it will be a thrashing, but I'm predicting City will win comfortably.

City 3-0 Fulham

How Did We Do Last Time?
Last week, we all got the result right but, once again, we proved that, football seers, we are not! Saul came closest with a 2-0 prediction and none of our team expected United to score. Pete's prediction of 5-0 fell hopelessly short and he won't be doing that again.



https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com/2023/9/2/23856498/manchester-city-v-fulham-gut-feelings

Fulham boss Marco Silva admits it is 'difficult to have control' in the transfer market after selling Aleksandar Mitrovic to Saudi Arabia and nearly losing Joao Palhinha to Bayern Munich on deadline day

    Marco Silva says the 'competitive' transfer market is difficult to control
    Joao Palhinha remained at Fulham but Aleksandar Mitrovic joined Al-Hilal
    Fulham completed the late signings of Alex Iwobi and Fode Ballo-Toure

Marco Silva admitted it is impossible for a club like Fulham to feel in control in the transfer market once better-resourced clubs start to show interest in their players.

The manager lost last season's top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic to Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal last month, and the final days of the transfer window were dominated by Bayern Munich's pursuit of midfielder Joao Palhinha.

The Bundesliga champions' move for the 28-year-old collapsed on Friday afternoon, owing to Fulham's determination not to lose the player so late in the window despite a significant offer from Bayern.

It has complicated Silva's preparations for the his side's trip to the Etihad to face Manchester City on Saturday, with Palhinha's availability for the game still mired in uncertainty.

The club signed Alex Iwobi from Everton, a player that Silva previously bought when he was the manager at Goodison Park, and picked up Fode Ballo-Toure on loan from Monaco, but the Portuguese boss conceded that doing business this late in the window was far from ideal.

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Fulham manager Marco Silva has said it is difficult to have control of transfer market following a hectic deadline day at Craven Cottage
 
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Midfielder Joao Palhinha will remain a Fulham player after a late move to Bayern Munich collapsed

'We knew as a club, all the clubs, knew [the deadline] is [Friday] at 11,' said Silva. 'Everyone knew that. It's up to us to do things early or not, to have control of the situation, even if football is so competitive, the market is so competitive that sometimes it's difficult to have everything under control.'

Of Iwobi's development during the years since the pair last worked together, he added: 'I believe that a player after four or five seasons with more game time, more mature and all that stuff, playing in a club with big pressure every single week should be better, yes.'

It took a penalty from Erling Haaland in the fifth minute of stoppage time for City to defeat Fulham in last season's meeting at the Etihad, that after Andreas Pereira's spot-kick had cancelled out Julian Alvarez's early goal.

And it was a similarly close affair in the reverse meeting at Craven Cottage in April, Haaland and Alvarez again on the scoresheet in another 2-1 win for the champions.

Despite the difficulty in competing with the likes of City in the transfer market, Silva believes his team can still be a match for the European champions over 90 minutes.

'To compete with them in one game or two games is possible,' he said. 'I think last season we were competitive in both games with them.

'We lost by the details. They desired probably to get the points they got. But I think it the results had been different no one would have been really surprised.

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Silva re-united with Alex Iwobi after signing the Nigerian midfielder from former club Everton for £22million
 
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Fulham were narrowly beaten 2-1 by Treble winners Manchester City at the end of last season

'If they are the champions it is for one reason. If they keep doing good things it's because they are a really strong side. But we are going to try to be competitive again.'

Silva also backed his compatriot Matheus Nunes, who agreed to join Pep Guardiola's side from Wolves for £53million this week, to shine in the blue of City.

'Nunes will be a very good addition for them, because he's a young player with quality. He already showed that in the Premier League.

'In my opinion he's going to show, it was just the first season in the league for him. (Now) he's more adapted, growing as a player. He's going to show even more his quality.'



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12473081/Marco-Silva-transfer-market-Fulham-Joao-Palhinha-Bayern-Munich-deadline-day.html

REST IN PEACE, MOHAMED AL-FAYED: 1929-2023
The Fulham Supporters' Trust wish to offer our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of former Fulham chairman Mohamed Al-Fayed, who sadly passed away yesterday aged 96.

Mr. Al-Fayed's impact on London's oldest professional club was seismic from the very day his takeover of the club was announced following Fulham's promotion from 1997. He announced a five-year plan to take the club to the promised land of the Premiership – and, though many scoffed, he achieved his dream a year ahead of time. His investment revolutionised the club from top to bottom and also supported Britain's first professional female football side after a visit to the Women's World Cup in 1999.

His tenure contained countless memories from the run to the 1999 FA Cup fifth round that saw a Second Division side surprise top flight opposition in Southampton and Aston Villa, to the fabulous football that saw Jean Tigana's side storm to the First Division title and thirteen consecutive years in the Premier League that included that remarkable run to the Europa League final in 2010. We are also immensely grateful that Mr. Al-Fayed reversed course and secured Fulham's long-term future at Craven Cottage having listened to our Back to the Cottage campaign.

Every Fulham fan will be forever grateful for the investment of Mr. Al-Fayed and his family as well as the special bond he formed with the Fulham family. Our thoughts are with his children Camila, Omar, Jasmine and Karim and the rest of the Al-Fayed family at this desperately sad time. We look forward to honouring his contribution to our club's illustrious history during this afternoon's fixture at Manchester City and in the weeks to come.



https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2023/09/rest-in-peace-mohamed-al-fayed-1929-2023/

Drama on deadline day: The real reason Tosin's proposed move to Monaco fell through
Contrary to reports, allnigeriasoccer.com can exclusively report that Tosin Adarabioyo's proposed move to Monaco falling through on deadline day had nothing to do with the French Ligue 1 club not meeting his valuation. 

Tosin was linked with possible moves to the Principality club as well as Tottenham Hotspur but the central defender favored a switch to France over remaining in the Premier League and even acquired a Nigerian passport to smooth things out.

This website can report with certainty that Tosin couldn't complete his transfer to Monaco in the end because the Cottagers didn't have a replacement lined up for him, so they pulled the plug on the deal.

Monaco made a final offer of €12 million for Tosin plus three million euros in performance-related add-ons but there was no reaction at all from Fulham on Friday as they didn't have a replacement for the Nigerian.

The Manchester City academy product was training away from the Fulham first team ahead of a potential departure from Craven Cottage.

It is envisaged that Tosin will be reintegrated into Fulham's first team set-up after his failed move to Monaco.

Of the four games played by the Cottagers in the new season, manager Marco Silva has named him in only one matchday squad, bringing him on in the 89th minute to shore up the defence in the impressive 2-2 draw at Arsenal last weekend.

Tosin started 27 games from a possible 44 in all competitions during the 2022-2023 season.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel



https://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=48672

Fulham: Journalist lifts lid on "serious" Hojbjerg bid
The Dane was subject to a dramatic late approach alongside Fode Ballo-Toure.

Journalist Paul Brown has shared some detail behind a "serious" last-gasp deadline day Fulham bid to sign Tottenham star Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.

Fulham deadline day signings
Despite the links to a plethora of stars very late in the window, Fulham did little business yesterday but did manage to seal a dramatic late loan move for AC Milan defender Fode Ballo-Toure.

The Senegal international, who plays as a left-back, joins Adama Traore, Raul Jimenez, Calvin Bassey, Steven Benda, Alex Iwobi and former Leicester City defender Timothy Castagne as Marco Silva's main summer signings.

Fulham were also boosted by star midfielder Joao Palhinha remaining at the club, as his proposed move to Bayern Munich collapsed in the eleventh hour.

The Portugal international had even travelled for a medical with Bayern, but the Whites ultimately didn't give the green light to the move, possibly because they couldn't source a late replacement.

Hojbjerg, who was a mainstay for Spurs under Antonio Conte last season, has found game time difficult to come by in Ange Postecoglou's new-look Tottenham system.

The Dane, as a result, was being chased by Fulham during the latter stages of the summer window - with journalist Brown sharing what he's heard on the matter to GiveMeSport.

Indeed, it is believed Fulham were the "last club" to make a "serious" last-ditch offer to sign Hojbjerg, but the move didn't come to fruition.

The former Southampton star is now left in "limbo" as a result of this, as explained by Brown to GMS:
"Hojbjerg is also one who isn't going to be allowed to leave. I think Fulham were the last club to make a serious offer, but they no longer need to decide what to do about how they replace Joao Palhinha, and I'm not sure he was their first choice there.

"So, he's currently in limbo. It is interesting that Ange Postecoglou also said today that he's not going to be freezing anyone out. If any of the fringe players they're trying to sell end up staying beyond the deadline, they will be reintegrated.

"He's not quite as strict on squad numbers as other managers and he is willing to work with a slightly bigger squad, while he says that right now it's not a problem in terms of numbers in training or anything like that.

How good is Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg?
While Palhinha staying reduces the need for Hojbjerg, in a hypothetical universe, he may well have been a capable deputy for the ex-Sporting CP ace.

The Denmark international ranked as one of Spurs' best-performing players per 90 last term, according to WhoScored, with Hojbjerg also registering the highest pass accuracy (88.6%) of any Tottenham player with over 10 starts.

He chipped in with nine goal contributions in the league, four goals and five assists specifically, and former Spurs keeper Paul Robinson praised Hojbjerg for his performances at the back end of last year.

"I've been surprised by how much he has stepped up this year," said Robinson to Football Insider.

"I thought he was the one who would make way for Yves Bissouma. The club spent a lot of money on Bissouma. I think Hojbjerg recognised that and stepped up.

"He is playing to a level that we have never seen before. He is playing his best football in a Spurs shirt."



https://www.footballfancast.com/premier-league-fulham-news-pierre-emile-hojbjerg-deadline-day/

'Last Minute': Fulham Complete 'Surprise Deal' for International Defender – Romano
The transfer window may have closed at 11 p.m. BST on September 1. But deals were still being completed after this time, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that a "surprise deal" had been done by Fulham for AC Milan defender Fode Ballo-Toure.

Fode Ballo-Toure Joins Fulham as 'Surprise Deal Completed'
Deal Sheet On for Fode Ballo-Toure
Romano had reported that Fulham had a "last minute" deal sheet in for the loan signing of Toure from Serie A giants AC Milan. Initially, it seemed any deal would include an option to buy, but Romano has since confirmed there is no such clause.

Marco Silva Bags 26-Year-Old Left Back
Toure is a Senegalese left-back, and his surprise signing will see him give competition to Antonee Robinson, giving Silva much-needed strength in depth.

At Milan, the defender has struggled to gain the left-back berth on a regular basis and will see the Premier League as an ideal opportunity to try a new challenge with the Cottagers.

Having made just 26 appearances for the red and black side of Milan. Toure will be keen to prove his worth in a new league and country.

Fode Ballo-Toure Swaps Milan for West London
He was not part of AC Milan's pre-season tour, seemingly making him surplus to requirements. In the 2022/23 season, he only managed 650 minutes in 14 appearances.

The full-back is quick and covers a lot of ground. He will provide energy and width for Fulham, as he often overlaps the wide midfielder, who can drift inside to create the space for Toure to attack.

He still has two years remaining on his current deal and will not be giving up on making the grade in Serie A just yet, with a stint in the Premier League a perfect opportunity to show good form and match fitness.



https://lastwordonsports.com/football/2023/09/02/surprise-deal-completed-fulham-ballo-toure/

Iwobi says he had a good relationship with Leno at Arsenal, reveals conversations with Bassey
Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has revealed his familiarity with new Fulham teammates Bernd Leno and Calvin Bassey and the conversation he had with the latter before signing for the Cottagers on transfer deadline day.

Iwobi was one of the last two players signed by Fulham in the just-concluded transfer window with the other being Fodé Ballo Touré.

The Hale End Academy product ended his four-year association with Everton after putting pen to paper on a five-year deal with Fulham.

Iwobi is no stranger to Leno as they were teammates at Arsenal while he is teammates with Bassey at international level.

The 27-year-old has revealed that both have welcomed him and Bassey's excitement to play with him at club level

"I know some couple of the players. Calvin is my little brother and I had a good relationship with Bernd at Arsenal. They've welcomed me already and I am sure everybody in the team is nice as well as them," Iwobi said to FFCtv.

Iwobi revealed that he had conversations with Bassey before his transfer to Fulham.

" I spoke with Calvin quite a lot in the previous week. He was telling me to hurry up, we are waiting for you

"I'm sure I'm going to message him when this is done. He's going to be excited. He's on international duty but he will see me eventually."

Iwobi was Everton's Players' Player of the Year last season and will be hoping to hit the ground running quickly at Craven Cottage.

It is unlikely that the Nigeria international will feature for Marco Silva's side when they face defending champions Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium today on matchday four of the Premier League.

Abdulkareem Abdulhamid



https://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=48673

Sean Dyche reveals Everton are 'stretched' and DIDN'T want to sell £22m Alex Iwobi to Fulham - but admits 'the business model is changing'

    Everton have a limited squad after Alex Iwobi's £22million move to Fulham
    Dominic Calvert-Lewin is unfit to play with Michael Keane also out injured
    Toffees Boss insists they didn't want to sell Iwobi to their Premier League rivals

Everton have named just seven substitutes, including two goalkeepers ahead of their Sheffield United clash.

Speaking to TNT Sports, Dyche said: 'It's not ideal. We're stretched.'

He added: 'The business model of the club is changing.

'We didn't want Alex (Iwobi) to leave but you have to good at the reality of the situation.

Everton's limited substitutes come after the summer transfer window saw Alex Iwobi leave at the end of the transfer window for a fee of £22million to Premier League rivals Fulham.

Conor Coady also departed at the end of his loan spell to Leicester City, alongside Neal Maupay who returned to his former club, Brentford.

Dwight McNeil is on the bench for the Toffees, as well as Vitaliy Mykolenko and two goalkeepers Joao Virginia and Andy Lonergan.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin is not fit enough to return, and Michael Keane and Lewis Dobbin are out injured.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12473185/Sean-Dyche-reveals-Everton-stretched-DIDNT-want-sell-22m-Alex-Iwobi-Fulham-admits-business-model-changing.html

"It's come to an end" – Fulham's newbie Alex Iwobi closes Everton era, pens heartfelt goodbye to Toffees
Alex Iwobi has bid farewell to Everton fans after he completed a transfer to Fulham on deadline day, Soccernet.ng reports.

Everton ended their association with the midfielder, marking the conclusion of his four-year tenure at Goodison Park.

The move to Fulham was confirmed in the early hours of today, following Fulham's submission of a deal sheet, allowing them to finalise the deal until 1 am.

During his time at Merseyside, the 27-year-old playmaker featured in 140 matches across all competitions, establishing himself as a versatile squad member.

The decision for the Nigerian international to leave Everton was reached after unsuccessful contract negotiations between the club and the player's representatives. Everton stand to gain a potential fee of £22 million from this transfer.

Reflecting on his journey at Goodison Park in a social media post, Iwobi expressed,

    "What a journey it's been, Toffees. I've shared some of the most intense moments of my career with you all, and it almost feels surreal that it has come to an end.

    "The Alex that arrived at Goodison Park in 2019 isn't the Alex saying goodbye today. I owe that to the good, the bad, the ugly, and the beautiful game we've lived together.

    "Thank you for an unforgettable ride, and I wish you the best of luck, Blues."


Iwobi was Everton Players' Player of the Year last season after his contributions helped the Toffees narrowly escape relegation from the Premier League.

He will join former Arsenal teammate Bernd Leno and Super Eagles compatriot Calvin Bassey at Fulham.




https://soccernet.ng/2023/09/its-come-to-an-end-fulhams-newbie-alex-iwobi-closes-everton-era-pens-heartfelt-goodbye-to-toffees.html

Gent confident of keeping hold of Tottenham and Fulham target
Het Nieuwsblad are reporting that, with the deadline passed for the Premier League transfer window, Gent will be able to keep hold of Gift Orban. The striker could still attract interest from the Saudi league, where the transfer window remains open until the 7 September. However, with the top leagues in Europe now having their windows shut, the Buffaloes believe that the squad will remain together until at least January. Orban had been of interest to Tottenham after the departure of Harry Kane to Bayern Munich. However, Gent's asking price put Spurs off of trying to sign the young forward. Fulham were also interested.

With Orban remaining, Gent will now certainly be amongst the title favourites. The Nigerian has formed a formidable partnership with Hugo Cuypers, with both being able to score 20 goals in a season. Gent have also been given a reasonably favourable draw in the Conference League. They will face Ukrainian side Zorya Luhansk, Maccabi Tel-Aviv of Israel and Icelandic side Breiðablik.

Orban has scored 26 goals in 30 games for Gent since arriving in January 2023.



https://getfootballnewsbene.com/gent-confident-of-keeping-hold-of-tottenham-and-fulham-target/#google_vignette