Ghana Sports News

The latest Ghana sports news: the Black Stars, the Ghana Premier League, boxing, athletics, and the stories fans are following. Curated from Ghana's leading newsrooms and updated through the day, newest first.

Tottenham Hotspur Sign Savio from Manchester City in Landmark £85 Million Transfer
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Tottenham Hotspur Sign Savio from Manchester City in Landmark £85 Million Transfer

Tottenham Hotspur have completed the high-profile signing of Brazilian winger Savio Moreira de Oliveira from Manchester City in a deal that could reach £85 million. The 22-year-old, who has opted to drop the diminutive "Savinho" in favor of his full name as he begins this new chapter, joins Spurs for an initial fee of £75 million plus an additional £10 million in performance-related add-ons. The acquisition is part of a massive summer recruitment drive by Tottenham, which has seen the club invest approximately £312 million to bolster their squad for the current campaign. Savio arrives at North London seeking more consistent first-team opportunities after a period of limited game time under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Despite making 84 total appearances for the Cityzens—tallying seven goals and 16 assists—the Brazilian international was restricted to just seven Premier League starts last season. His true potential was most recently highlighted during a standout loan spell at Girona, where he became one of La Liga’s most exciting prospects by contributing nine goals and eight assists. This creative spark is exactly what Spurs hope he will bring to their attacking front as they look to climb the Premier League table. The Brazilian international, who has earned 13 caps for his country, expressed immense enthusiasm about working under Tottenham head coach Roberto de Zerbi. Savio indicated that the chance to develop under De Zerbi’s tactical system was a primary motivator for the move, stating his desire to reach "new heights" in London. The winger's arrival is expected to provide immediate energy and flair to the Spurs' flanks, fitting the high-intensity style favored by the current coaching staff. As the transfer deadline approaches, Tottenham shows no signs of slowing down, with reports suggesting the club is also pursuing Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush to further strengthen their options. The signing of Savio represents a significant statement of intent from the Spurs board, demonstrating a willingness to compete for top-tier talent from their direct rivals. Fans will be eager to see how the young Brazilian integrates into the squad as Tottenham prepares for its upcoming domestic and continental challenges.

Ethiopia Launches Official Bid for 2028 Africa Cup of Nations, Aiming to End 52-Year Hosting Hiatus
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Ethiopia Launches Official Bid for 2028 Africa Cup of Nations, Aiming to End 52-Year Hosting Hiatus

Ethiopia has officially submitted a government-backed bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), marking a determined effort to bring the continent’s premier football tournament back to the country for the first time since 1976. The Ethiopian Football Federation (EFF) emphasized the nation’s readiness and historical significance as a founding member of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), having previously hosted the event three times in 1962, 1968, and 1976. Despite a current global ranking of 143rd for the national team, the Walia Ibex, the EFF maintains that the tournament would serve as a catalyst for sporting growth in East Africa. However, the bid faces significant scrutiny regarding the country’s current football infrastructure. At present, Ethiopia has only one stadium—Bahir Dar Stadium—that meets the stringent requirements set by CAF for international matches. To accommodate the modern 24-team format, the nation is pinning its hopes on the completion of the Adey Abeba International Stadium and sports complex in Addis Ababa. While the government expects construction to conclude within the next year, critics point to the recent necessity of moving Ethiopia's 2026 World Cup qualifiers to neutral venues as a concerning indicator of the nation’s current lack of compliant facilities. Beyond physical infrastructure, the proposal must navigate complex logistical and security challenges. While the capital city is considered relatively stable, ongoing regional conflicts and political unrest in other parts of the country have raised alarms regarding the safety of visiting teams and spectators. Hosting a tournament of this magnitude requires not only elite stadiums but also high-standard training facilities, reliable transportation networks, and extensive hotel accommodations across multiple host cities, many of which are currently lacking in the necessary upgrades. Ethiopia enters a competitive field for the 2028 hosting rights, facing a formidable joint bid from a Southern African bloc including Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Morocco and Burkina Faso have also expressed interest in future hosting opportunities. Following the decision to award the 2027 AFCON to the East African trio of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, Ethiopia’s success would further cement the region’s emerging status as a hub for African football. The CAF executive committee is expected to weigh these infrastructure and security concerns against Ethiopia's rich footballing heritage before making a final determination.

Aduana FC Faces Penalties After Pitch Walk-off as Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ Ball Fetches $3.3 Million
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Aduana FC Faces Penalties After Pitch Walk-off as Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ Ball Fetches $3.3 Million

Ghanaian Premier League side Aduana FC has made headlines following a dramatic walk-off during their pre-season engagement in the Nsenkyire Cup. The incident occurred during a match against Etoile Filante at the Nsenkyire Arena, where the Dormaa-based club abruptly halted play at half-time. The decision to leave the pitch was a direct protest against what club officials deemed controversial refereeing decisions. While the act served as a strong statement of dissatisfaction, it has come at a cost, as the club now faces a financial penalty for failing to complete the fixture. The theme of match disruptions extended to the European stage, specifically in the Dutch Eredivisie, where a league encounter between SC Cambuur and Feyenoord was marred by crowd violence. SC Cambuur reported that several of its supporters sustained serious injuries, including burns, hearing damage, and eye injuries, after fireworks were launched into the stands by Feyenoord fans. The match at the Kooi Stadion was suspended for approximately 10 minutes during the first half as officials and emergency services responded to the chaos caused by the ignition of multiple red flares and projectiles launched by the away supporters. While current matches grapple with discipline and safety, the historical side of the "beautiful game" continues to command massive financial investment. The iconic Adidas Azteca football used by Diego Maradona to score his legendary "Hand of God" goal during the 1986 FIFA World Cup was recently auctioned by Heritage Auctions. The ball fetched a staggering $3.3 million, highlighting the enduring legacy of the late Argentine maestro. Despite the multi-million dollar price tag, the final sale fell significantly short of the initial pre-auction estimate of $10 million. These events highlight the varied landscape of modern football, where the passion of the game often collides with the necessity for professional conduct and spectator safety. From the local fields of Ghana to the high-stakes auction houses and European league stadiums, the sport remains a focal point of intense emotion and historical reverence. As Aduana FC prepares to navigate its financial sanctions, the broader football community is reminded of the ongoing challenges in maintaining order and protecting the heritage that makes the game a global phenomenon.

Accra Turf Club Petitions President Mahama Following Forced Demolition of Borteyman Race Course
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Accra Turf Club Petitions President Mahama Following Forced Demolition of Borteyman Race Course

The Accra Turf Club has issued a fervent appeal to President John Mahama to intervene following the forceful entry and demolition of its historic Race Course at Borteyman. On August 22, the site was reportedly stormed by approximately 200 armed men, accompanied by police personnel, resulting in the destruction of vital infrastructure and the eviction of those who maintain the facility. The club has condemned the action as a direct threat to the country’s equestrian heritage and is calling for immediate executive protection to secure the property against what it describes as unlawful land-grabbing activities. According to the Accra Turf Club, the demolition was led by individuals identified as Clement Dzato and Azuma, who directed the destruction of approximately 100 horse stables. The operation forced jockeys and their horses off the premises, creating a chaotic scene and leaving the future of the sport in jeopardy. The club members expressed shock at the scale of the destruction and the presence of law enforcement officers during an act they characterize as an illegal seizure of land that has long served as a hub for competitive horse racing in Ghana. Beyond the physical destruction, the club emphasizes that the Race Course is the backbone of an equestrian sector that supports over 30,000 livelihoods across the country. From trainers and jockeys to stable hands and fodder suppliers, the industry provides significant economic opportunities that are now at risk. The Turf Club argues that the loss of this facility would not only undermine the sport’s development but also devastate the families whose incomes depend on the daily operations of the course and the care of the horses housed there. In its official statement, the Accra Turf Club vowed to use all lawful means available to defend its rights and recover the property. While the club pursues legal avenues, it insists that the situation requires the urgent attention of President Mahama and other relevant government officials to ensure that the rule of law prevails over land encroachment. The club maintains that preserving the Borteyman site is essential for maintaining Ghana's cultural and sporting identity, urging the state to take a firm stand against the unauthorized demolition of national sporting assets.

Former Black Stars Striker Prince Tagoe Appointed Sporting Director at JP FC Amid Heightened European Transfer Activity
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Former Black Stars Striker Prince Tagoe Appointed Sporting Director at JP FC Amid Heightened European Transfer Activity

In a significant development for Ghanaian football management, former Black Stars attacker Prince Tagoe has been officially appointed as the Sporting Director for Joseph Paintsil (JP) Football Club. This appointment comes as the club prepares for the 2026/2027 season, signaling a strategic move to leverage Tagoe’s extensive experience on the international stage. Tagoe, who was a key figure for the Ghana national team during his playing days, is expected to oversee all essential football operations at the club, bringing a professional edge to the institution founded by current Black Stars winger Joseph Paintsil. The appointment of Tagoe is seen as a major boost for JP FC, as the club looks to solidify its administrative and technical structures. By bringing in a veteran with deep roots in the game, the club aims to streamline its recruitment, player development, and overall competitive strategy. Tagoe’s transition into a high-level executive role follows a trend of former Ghanaian internationals taking up leadership positions within the local football ecosystem to foster growth and professionalism. While the local scene celebrates this administrative milestone, the international football market is witnessing intense activity as the transfer deadline approaches. Manchester City has reportedly intensified its efforts to secure the signatures of high-profile talents Enzo Fernandez and Cody Gakpo. The Premier League champions are looking to bolster their squad depth with the addition of Fernandez’s midfield creativity and Gakpo’s clinical finishing, as they continue their quest for domestic and continental dominance. The transfer window drama extends to a burgeoning rivalry in youth recruitment, with Manchester United reportedly in talks to sign Arsenal’s promising youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly. This move highlights the ongoing trend of top-tier English clubs competing for the best emerging talent to secure their long-term futures. For Manchester United, securing a player of Lewis-Skelly's caliber from a direct rival like Arsenal would represent a significant coup in their ongoing rebuilding phase. As these developments unfold across both the Ghanaian and European landscapes, they reflect the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of modern football. From Prince Tagoe’s new leadership responsibilities at JP FC to the multi-million-pound negotiations involving Manchester City and United, the sports world remains in a state of constant transition. The coming months will be crucial for these clubs as they finalize their rosters and leadership teams ahead of their respective upcoming campaigns.

Serena Williams and Carlos Alcaraz are applauded by the crowd at the US Open
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Serena Williams and Carlos Alcaraz Headline High-Stakes Mixed Doubles Experiment at US Open

The US Open recently witnessed a historic pairing on the court as Carlos Alcaraz and Serena Williams joined forces for a revamped mixed doubles competition that captured the imagination of tennis fans worldwide. In a move that signaled her unexpected return to competitive tennis after a four-year hiatus, Williams stepped back onto the hallowed grounds of Arthur Ashe Stadium, drawing a crowd of approximately 15,000 spectators. The electric atmosphere underscored the enduring star power of the 23-time Grand Slam champion, who expressed her own surprise at returning to the professional stage alongside the young Spanish sensation. The partnership served as more than just an exhibition of talent; for Alcaraz, it provided a crucial opportunity to gain match fitness and court time as he continues his recovery from a recent wrist injury. The duo demonstrated immediate chemistry in their opening encounter, securing a hard-fought victory against the experienced pair of Lloyd Glasspool and Erin Routliffe. However, their run was ultimately halted in the quarter-finals, where they were eliminated by the tandem of Flavio Cobolli and Belinda Bencic. Despite the loss, the presence of such high-profile singles players brought unprecedented attention to the mixed doubles draw. The inclusion of elite singles stars like Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, and Aryna Sabalenka in the mixed doubles bracket is part of a controversial new format designed to boost the event's profile. While the strategy successfully generated significant fan engagement and high attendance, it has faced sharp criticism from the professional doubles community for allegedly sidelining established specialists. The tournament saw mixed results for these high-profile entries, with many top-tier singles players facing early exits. As the tennis world evaluates the impact of this experimental format, the Alcaraz-Williams partnership remains the defining highlight of a tournament seeking to bridge the gap between individual stardom and team competition.

Sports Minister Kofi Iddie Adams Proposes Systemic Overhaul as George Afriyie Questions National Team Rewards
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Sports Minister Kofi Iddie Adams Proposes Systemic Overhaul as George Afriyie Questions National Team Rewards

Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Iddie Adams, has intensified calls for a comprehensive rebuilding of Ghana’s football ecosystem, advocating for a shift toward sustainable, grassroots-driven development. Speaking at a Ghana Football Association (GFA) Ordinary Congress, the Minister expressed significant concern over the decline in youth development and criticized previous government interventions for failing to produce lasting results. Adams’ vision for the next five years involves moving beyond the short-term goal of player sales to building robust club structures, improving stadium safety, and significantly increasing investment in women’s football. The call for structural change coincides with ongoing debates regarding the incentives provided to national team players versus those in the domestic league. Former GFA Vice President George Afriyie has recently challenged the criteria used for rewarding talent, specifically questioning the decision to honor Black Stars goalkeeper Benjamin Asare. In a recent interview, Afriyie argued that local league standouts, such as Medeama SC’s Salim Adams, deserve greater recognition and more substantial incentives to reward their commitment to the Ghana Premier League (GPL). He suggested that prioritizing domestic players is essential for maintaining the health of the local game. These developments underscore a growing consensus among stakeholders that the current model of Ghanaian football requires a fundamental realignment. While the Ministry focuses on high-level systemic changes and infrastructure, figures like Afriyie highlight the need for a reward system that prioritizes and retains domestic talent. As the GFA and the Ministry of Sports navigate these internal and external pressures, the focus remains on whether these various calls for reform will translate into a cohesive strategy that can restore Ghana's prominence on the continental and global football stages.

Cole Palmer and Xabi Alonso Lead Chelsea to Thrilling 3-2 Opening Day Victory Over Fulham
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Cole Palmer and Xabi Alonso Lead Chelsea to Thrilling 3-2 Opening Day Victory Over Fulham

Chelsea's new era under manager Xabi Alonso began with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Fulham at Stamford Bridge, marking a successful Premier League debut for the Spanish tactician. The match was defined by a masterclass from Cole Palmer and a resilient team performance that gave the Blues their first opening-day win since the 2022-23 season. The victory provides an immediate boost to morale as the club seeks to re-establish itself as a dominant force in English football under its new leadership. The contest ignited almost immediately when Cole Palmer found Joao Pedro with a precise pass, allowing the forward to find the back of the net in the very first minute. While Fulham responded through Josh King to level the score, Chelsea's attacking intent remained clear. Morgan Rogers, making his debut for the London club, announced his arrival in style by netting his first goal for the team to restore the lead. However, the visitors refused to back down, with Gonzalo Garcia scoring to bring Fulham level for a second time, testing the tactical resolve of Alonso’s reconstructed side. Ultimately, it was Cole Palmer who proved to be the difference-maker, following up his earlier assist with a clinical winning goal to seal the three points. Beyond the scoreline, the performance showcased a renewed sense of clinical finishing and tactical fluidity that had been missing in previous campaigns. As Chelsea looks ahead to the rest of the season, this victory provides the necessary momentum to build confidence within the squad and among the supporters, effectively ending a multi-year drought of opening-match disappointments.

Asante Kotoko Strengthens Squad with Ibrahim Danlad and Foreign Signings Ahead of Democracy Cup Clash
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Asante Kotoko Strengthens Squad with Ibrahim Danlad and Foreign Signings Ahead of Democracy Cup Clash

Asante Kotoko is undergoing a significant transformation as the club prepares for the upcoming Ghana Premier League season, headlined by the high-profile return of goalkeeper Ibrahim Danlad. The 23-year-old shot-stopper returns to the Porcupine Warriors after a two-season stint with Ethiopian side Coffee SC, bringing what he describes as a newfound maturity and international experience. Danlad is one of 12 new additions to the squad, a massive recruitment drive intended to restore the club's competitive edge. His first major test is expected to be the high-stakes Democracy Cup match against rivals Hearts of Oak, currently scheduled for August 28. In a strategic shift toward international talent, the club has also confirmed the signing of six foreign players from across the continent. These new acquisitions hail from Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Morocco, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This move toward external talent extends to the technical bench as well. Solomon Ofosu-Ware, Chairman of the Asante Kotoko National Circles Supporters, recently explained that the decision to appoint a foreign coach was driven by a need for stricter discipline. According to Ofosu-Ware, local coaches have historically struggled to maintain the necessary professional standards required to keep the team performing at its peak. Preparations for the upcoming Democracy Cup have extended beyond the training pitch, with the trophy recently embarking on a high-profile tour of national institutions. A parliamentary delegation, led by Clerk Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, presented the trophy to the National Police Headquarters and the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE). Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno has pledged full security support for the event, ensuring a safe environment for what is expected to be a massive turnout. NCCE Chairperson Kathleen Addy lauded the initiative, noting that using a football rivalry as iconic as Kotoko versus Hearts of Oak is a powerful way to promote democratic values and civic engagement. The Democracy Cup fixture serves as a critical barometer for Kotoko's new-look squad before the domestic league commences. The event will feature a unique curtain-raiser involving a match between a Parliamentary XI and a Judiciary XI, adding a layer of civic significance to the sporting spectacle. As the inaugural champions of the cup face off against the defending champions, Hearts of Oak, the match represents more than just a trophy; it is the first real glimpse for fans into whether the club’s recent investments in foreign talent and disciplined leadership will pay immediate dividends on the field.

Antoine Semenyo Makes History in PFA Team of the Year as Oscar Naasei Nears Real Madrid Move
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Antoine Semenyo Makes History in PFA Team of the Year as Oscar Naasei Nears Real Madrid Move

Ghanaian football has reached a significant milestone as Antoine Semenyo became the first Ghanaian player ever to be named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year. Honored at the PFA Awards on August 25, 2026, Semenyo’s inclusion follows an exceptional 2025/26 season where he stood out alongside elite players from clubs such as Manchester City, Arsenal, and Manchester United. This historic recognition underscores Semenyo’s individual brilliance and elevates the profile of Ghanaian athletes in the world’s most-watched football league. Adding to the momentum of Ghanaian talent on the European stage, 21-year-old defender Oscar Naasei is reportedly on the verge of a high-profile move to Real Madrid. Currently with Granada, the promising centre-back has seen negotiations with the Spanish giants accelerate recently, with Real Madrid leading a pack of interested clubs. Naasei, who has already made two appearances in La Liga 2 this season, is expected to initially join Real Madrid’s reserve team to facilitate his technical development. His rise has been rapid, having already made his senior debut for the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While Semenyo and Naasei represent the European frontier, midfielder Kwasi Sibo is finalizing a landmark move on the continent to join Libyan champions Al-Swehly. Sibo’s transfer has been described as a complex saga that involved a collapsed deal in Turkey followed by a lucrative financial offer from the North African side. The move, which reportedly involves a significant $10 million valuation, was finalized after intensive family consultations and a last-minute ultimatum. Sibo’s transition to the Libyan champions marks one of the most high-profile intra-continental transfers for a Ghanaian player in recent years. These diverse movements across the global football landscape highlight a period of transition and growth for Ghana’s national team prospects. With Semenyo performing at a historic level in England, Naasei entering the ecosystem of the world’s most successful club, and Sibo securing a major deal in Africa, the Black Stars are seeing their personnel gain experience in various high-stakes environments. As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the success of these individuals is expected to provide national team selectors with a broader and more experienced pool of talent to draw from.

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin Rules Out FIFA Presidency Bid Amid Growing Pressure on Gianni Infantino
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UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin Rules Out FIFA Presidency Bid Amid Growing Pressure on Gianni Infantino

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has officially declined to enter the race for the FIFA presidency, even as current leader Gianni Infantino faces intensified scrutiny. Despite ruling himself out of the 2027 contest, Ceferin suggested that Infantino is unlikely to run unopposed, signaling a turbulent period ahead for world football's governing body. This development follows a wave of criticism directed at Infantino over a failed and controversial proposal to involve private investors in a "selloff" of FIFA tournaments, including the flagship World Cup. The push for leadership change has gained momentum among high-profile former players who argue that the organization requires a fresh perspective. Premier League winners Emmanuel Petit and Mikael Silvestre, along with former French international Olivier Dacourt, have publicly voiced their demands for a new direction at FIFA. These former stars expressed deep concerns that the current leadership is failing to separate personal interests from the broader needs of the sport, particularly following the collapsed initiative to bring private equity into the World Cup. However, the embattled FIFA President still maintains significant support within the football community, most notably from Samuel Eto’o. The former Barcelona striker and current president of the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT) has urged stakeholders to stand by Infantino, asserting that the President "hasn’t done anything wrong" despite the backlash. Eto’o’s defense highlights a persistent divide between those who see the failed investment plan as a calculated financial strategy and those who view it as a threat to the sport’s foundations. As the dust settles on Ceferin's withdrawal from the race, the global football community is looking toward the FIFA Congress scheduled for March 2027. While the UEFA President has removed himself from the equation, his prediction of a potential challenge indicates that Infantino's path to another term may not be as clear as it once seemed. The coming months are expected to see further debate over FIFA’s commercial ambitions and whether the calls for reform from former players and European officials will coalesce into a formal opposition candidate.

Carlos Baleba signs his Manchester United contract
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Manchester United Secures Midfielder Carlos Baleba in £70 Million Transfer from Brighton

Manchester United has finalized the signing of 22-year-old Cameroonian midfielder Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion in a deal worth a total of £70 million. The agreement includes an initial payment of £65 million with an additional £5 million in potential performance-related add-ons. Baleba has committed to a five-year contract at Old Trafford, which includes an option for a further year, marking a significant investment as the club seeks to stabilize its midfield following a disappointing start to the Premier League season, including a loss against Hull City. Baleba arrives at Old Trafford with a reputation for athleticism and defensive prowess, having made 112 appearances for Brighton since his move from Lille. His versatility and physical presence are intended to address gaps in United's tactical setup that were exposed during their opening matches. Upon signing, Baleba expressed his excitement about the move, stating that playing for Manchester United has been a lifelong dream. He also noted his enthusiasm for working under the guidance of the coaching staff, specifically mentioning his eagerness to develop his game under Michael Carrick. Despite the high expectations surrounding his arrival, Baleba is currently sidelined as he recovers from an ankle injury sustained during pre-season training. This acquisition brings Manchester United's total summer spending to approximately £153 million, highlighting the board's commitment to reinforcing the squad for their upcoming return to the UEFA Champions League. The club’s medical team will be working closely with the midfielder to ensure he is integrated into the first-team squad as soon as his rehabilitation is complete. As United prepares for a demanding season across multiple competitions, the addition of Baleba is seen as a strategic move to provide both long-term stability and immediate physicality to the team’s core. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the young Cameroonian adapts to the pressure of Old Trafford once he is fit to play. His transition from a key player at Brighton to a foundational piece of United’s revamped midfield will be a critical storyline as the Red Devils aim to compete for top honors this year.