Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

Birmingham City, Hull City, and Sierra Leone defender Curtis Davies has announced his retirement from football.
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Former Villa, Leicester City and Sierra Leone defender retires

Birmingham City, Hull City, and Sierra Leone defender Curtis Davies has announced his retirement from football.

Davies, 39, who began his career at Wimbledon, made 686 first-team career appearances, including three for England U21, and has finally hung up his boots.

In October 2023, at age 38, Davies was called up to the Sierra Leone national team squad for their friendly matches against Benin and Somalia.

On 5 June 2024, Davies scored his first Sierra Leone international goal in a 2–1 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification win against Djibouti.

“The day has finally come… After much deliberation over the last few months, I have decided to retire from football. Growing up as a kid, I simply wanted to be a footballer.

So, to have been able to play and score at Wembley, play in the Premier League, and represent both England U21 and Sierra Leone during my 23 years truly was a dream come true.

There have been plenty of ups and maybe even more downs, but all combined it made my journey a very special one.” Davies announced his retirement on Twitter.

In 2005, Davies joined West Bromwich Albion, where he made 35 starts and scored two goals in his first season with Albion, which ended with the club being relegated to the Championship.

In July 2006, he signed a new four-year contract and was appointed captain permanently, having captained the team on several occasions during the previous season to become the club’s second-youngest captain of all time.

Davies had spells at Aston Villa, Leicester City, Hull City, and Cheltenham Town.

Watanga FC confirm week-long training camp in Sierra Leone
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Watanga FC confirm week-long training camp in Sierra Leone

Liberia’s topflight side Watanga F has officially announced its upcoming training camp in Sierra Leone, setting the stage for an exciting and pivotal pre-season endeavour.

The team is poised to engage in a friendly match against the formidable Bo Rangers, champions of Sierra Leone, at the illustrious Southern Arena in August.

This event will mark the centrepiece of a comprehensive week-long training camp, showcasing the team’s commitment to rigorous preparation and competitive excellence.

Departing for Bo, Sierra Leone, on Friday, August 2nd, Watanga FC eagerly anticipates a series of international club friendlies, including a potential doubleheader against Bo Rangers.

The Liberian side might also face East End Lions Football Club and Tornado FC.

As the team gears up for the high-stakes CAF Champions League’s first-leg preliminary against MC Algiers this month, this immersive and dynamic training camp is primed to fortify Watanga FC’s readiness and unity for the challenges ahead.

Senegal striker Ismaïla Sarr is Crystal Palace's latest acquisition
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal striker Ismaïla Sarr is Crystal Palace’s latest acquisition

Crystal Palace has signed Senegal’s forward Ismaïla Sarr on a five-year deal, making him the club’s third summer transfer window signing.

The 26-year-old forward has extensive experience in English football, playing for Watford and Marseille. He also played in France for Metz and Rennes.

Ismaïla Sarr has 64 appearances for the Senegal national team, scoring 13 goals. He won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2021. He received Goal of the Season awards in the Football League and the Europa League.

Crystal Palace’s management has expressed belief in Sarr’s abilities. Manager Oliver Glasner highlighted Sarr’s successes and expressed confidence in his potential contribution to the squad.

Sarr expressed delight in joining Crystal Palace and his commitment to making a valuable contribution. Crystal Palace extends a warm welcome to Ismaïla Sarr and best wishes for his upcoming career with the team.

Yayah Kallon joins Serie B Salernitana on loan from Hellas Verona
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Yayah Kallon joins Serie B Salernitana on loan from Hellas Verona

Sierra Leone’s Yayah Kallon has sealed a season-long loan transfer from Hellas Verona to Serie B outfit Salernitana.

During his loan spell at Bari last season, Kallon made 14 appearances and scored two goals. He is hopeful to continue performing well on the field.

In 2018, Kallon made a significant move by signing for the Italian Serie D side, Savona. This opportunity came after he had undergone a trial with Virtus Entella in the Serie C.

Fast forward to 22nd May 2021 and Kallon had his debut for Genoa in a thrilling 1-0 Serie A victory against Cagliari.

Then, on 13th August 2021, Kallon showcased his skills by scoring his first goal for Genoa in a spectacular 3-2 win over Perugia in the Coppa Italia.

Moving on to 26th August 2022, Kallon seized another exciting opportunity by joining Hellas Verona on loan, which included an option to buy and a conditional obligation to buy.

This move was followed by a loan to Bari, adding further experience to his journey.

Yayah Kallon unveiled by new Italian side U.S. Salernitana 1919
Yayah Kallon unveiled by new Italian side U.S. Salernitana 1919
Gabonese Yannis M'bemba joins Dordrecht to strengthen defense
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Gabonese Yannis M’bemba joins Dordrecht to strengthen defence

Yannis M’bemba, a French-Gabonese player, has joined the Dutch Eerste Divisie club Dordrecht to strengthen the team’s defence.

He is transferring from FC Nantes in France and will not require a transfer fee. The 1.94-meter-tall centerback has signed a two-year contract with an option for a third year at the Krommedijk.

During his time at Nantes, he played two matches in Ligue 1 and mostly featured for the club’s second team. M’bemba made his international debut earlier this year in the Gabon vs. DR Congo match.

Having trained with Dordtenaren for several weeks, M’bemba has already played in several practice matches.

General Director Hans de Zeeuw expressed his satisfaction with M’bemba’s decision to join FC Dordrecht, noting, “Yannis is a very complete defender who can play in both centre positions.

In addition to his height, he is also very comfortable on the ball. We are delighted that Yannis chose to join us!”