Here are the latest Premier League titles for Monday June 20.
Rudiger reveals Barca snub
Antonio Rudiger says joining Real Madrid from Chelsea was a ‘huge step’ as he revealed he rejected an approach from bitter rivals at his new club Barcelona. The 29-year-old defender was unveiled in the Spanish capital on Monday afternoon after signing a four-year deal to join the European champions on a free transfer.
Rudiger, who turned down a lucrative new contract to stay at Stamford Bridge, had been in demand across Europe but insisted he had never been tempted by Barca’s advances. The Germany international is relishing the opportunity to represent La Liga giants Real and was reminded of the immense responsibility of doing so on his way to the club’s trophy cabinet.
“Yes, there was interest from Barcelona,” he told a press conference. “But I told my brother it was Real Madrid or nothing. What I can promise is that I will give everything for the club and I want to win as many trophies as possible.
“You come to a big, big, massive club – it’s a big step for me. But I try to enjoy the pressure. I consider myself lucky to be here, doing what I love. I I was in Real Madrid’s trophy cabinet and there the pressure starts. It’s something you can’t run away from. You have to try to take advantage of it.”
READ MORE: Arsenal look to steal march on Barcelona as Raphinha Leeds United saga continues
West Ham land Aguerd
West Ham have signed Moroccan defender Nayef Aguerd from French club Rennes. The 26-year-old, who has been capped 25 times by his country, has signed a five-year contract with the Premier League club.
Hammers manager David Moyes was eager to sign a left-footed centre-back during the summer window. Aguerd will compete against Craig Dawson, Issa Diop, Angelo Ogbonna and Kurt Zouma at the London Stadium.
Moyes told the club’s website: “I am delighted to welcome Nayef to West Ham United. We have been following his progress for some time and I am very happy that we were able to complete the signing. He is a great addition which will add to our defensive options.
“I was really impressed with Nayef’s character and attitude during our discussions. He has a great desire to improve and succeed, and I’m sure he will fit in very well with the environment. that we have at Rush Green (training ground).”
Boehly takes the reins of Chelsea
Todd Boehly is set to become Chelsea chairman when Bruce Buck steps down at the end of the month. Chelsea co-owner Boehly’s expected move to the presidency once again signals the US billionaire’s desire for hands-on management at Stamford Bridge.
Buck worked at Chelsea for almost 20 years and will remain with the Blues in an advisory capacity when he steps down as chairman. Buck has reportedly earned a lot of respect from new Chelsea consortium chiefs Boehly and Clearlake Capital during the club’s record £4.25billion sale process.
Boehly, 48, has reportedly found himself highly engaged and fascinated by the challenge ahead at Chelsea, which has prompted him to move into the central role of chairman. Buck helped negotiate the purchase of Chelsea by Roman Abramovich in 2003, before becoming chairman as the Blues became a dominant global force. The New York-born lawyer was on hand as the Blues won 21 men’s trophies and 12 women’s titles under the Abramovich era.
“I’m proud to have helped Chelsea achieve great success on the pitch and have a positive impact on the community,” Buck said. “Now is the right time to step aside and let the new ownership build on the solid foundations we have in place. The owners have a compelling vision for Chelsea’s future, and I look forward to them. help achieve that in this new role alongside our incredible staff, players, coaches and supporters.”
