Flash Mercato: Textor Fires a Coach, Galtier Finds a New Bench, Sancho Loaned Back?
**John Textor Fires Botafogo’s Coach, Not at OL**
Despite Botafogo’s current first-place standing in the Brazilian championship, leading by 7 points over Bragantino after 25 matchdays, American businessman John Textor, who holds a majority share of the club, has decided to part ways with coach Bruno Lage. Bruno Lage had briefly been mentioned as a possible candidate to replace Laurent Blanc at Olympique Lyonnais. Botafogo released a statement: « Botafogo informs that, by decision of John Textor and the Football Department, Bruno Lage is no longer the head coach of the first team. Despite a successful start with 10 consecutive matches without defeat, the recent results have not met expectations. The club wishes to thank Bruno and his entire coaching staff for their services to Glorioso in recent months, wishing him much success in his future endeavors. »
**Christophe Galtier Heads to Al-Duhail**
Former Paris Saint-Germain coach Christophe Galtier, who was recently approached to take over Olympique de Marseille, is set to return to coaching. According to the latest information from L’Équipe, he has decided to join Al-Duhail, where he will replace Hernan Crespo with a two-year contract. At Al-Duhail, Galtier will have the opportunity to manage renowned players, including Philippe Coutinho, currently on loan from Aston Villa. He will reunite with Isaac Lihadji, a player he had previously worked with during his time at Lille in the 2020-2021 season.
**Alphonso Davies’ Future at Bayern Munich Uncertain**
Alphonso Davies, the Bayern Munich full-back, may be on the move. Davies, who joined the club from Vancouver Whitecaps in January 2019 and has 41 international caps, is reportedly considering a change of scenery. Although he is currently under contract with Bayern Munich until 2025, he has attracted interest from several clubs, including Real Madrid. In an interview with 365Scorses, the 22-year-old’s agent, Nedal Huoseh, hinted at the possibility of Davies leaving. « There is interest from numerous teams. I am sure Real Madrid could be one of the clubs interested in recruiting (Alphonso) Davies. There are also several Premier League clubs that all want one of the best left-backs in the world. We will see what happens, » his agent said.
**Jadon Sancho’s Possible January Exit from Manchester United**
It appears that Jadon Sancho, the Manchester United forward, could leave the Red Devils, likely on loan, in January 2024. Sancho’s relationship with Erik Ten Hag has soured, and the club is actively seeking an exit strategy for the player. According to SkySports, Edin Terzic, the Borussia Dortmund coach, has been in regular contact with Sancho in hopes of persuading him to return to the German club in three months. However, SkySport deems this possibility « highly unlikely » due to Sancho’s high salary. The British player is under contract with Manchester United until 2026, and his current market value is estimated at €45 million according to Transfermarkt. Manchester United had acquired him for €85 million in 2021.