Lead:
The Arab sports calendar entered a crucial phase with multiple domestic league campaigns launching their second phases and pre-season fixtures underway across the region. Key transfer movements dominated headlines, including reported negotiations between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City over Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush and Brazilian winger Savinho, valued at 160 million pounds sterling combined.
Top Stories:
Al-Hilal (Saudi Arabia) — Defeated Al-Fihaa 3-0 in the opening match of the Saudi Professional League's second round on Thursday evening. Forward Aleksandar Mitrovic scored and Emiliano Sala netted, with an own goal contributing to the margin of victory, lifting Al-Hilal to the top of the standings.Tottenham Hotspur transfer pursuit — The English club is in advanced negotiations with Manchester City to acquire Egyptian striker Omar Marmoush and Brazilian winger Savinho for a combined fee of 160 million pounds. Manchester City has granted Marmoush permission to depart following competitive limitations within the squad.Barcelona contract extension — Portuguese defender Joao Cancelo signed a new contract with La Liga champions Barcelona through 2029 on Thursday. The defender joined Barcelona as a free agent after spending the previous season on loan with the club.UAE women's football — Emirates Women's team secured a dominant 9-0 victory over Laos-based Masters in Asian Cup qualification matches held in Uzbekistan. The result marked progress in regional competition as the nation pursues qualification advancement.Emirati mixed martial arts — The UAE increased its medal tally to 18 at the World Mixed Martial Arts Youth Championship, with competition concluding Thursday at Abu Dhabi's Mubadala Arena.What to Watch:
Al-Nassr faces Al-Riyadh on Friday in the Saudi Professional League second round, with Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo expected to lead the visitors. The UAE Pro League's first-division season begins Friday with 15 clubs participating in the 2026-27 campaign.