THE move by 12 of Europe's top clubs to launch a Super League on Sunday (18) has kicked off what is likely to be a bitter struggle for control of the game but the idea of a breakaway competition has been bubbling away for more than 20 years.
Top clubs from England, Spain and Italy announced the breakaway competition to rival UEFA Champions League, with the plans being condemned by soccer authorities, political leaders and former players.
JP Morgan on Monday (19) said that it was financing the new breakaway Super League. A spokesman for JP Morgan confirmed in an email of its involvement with the new league.
In 1998, Milan-based sports marketing group Media Partners held talks with leading clubs, including AC Milan and Manchester United, seeking to build support for a breakaway league.
Global soccer body FIFA threatened national associations, clubs and players with suspension if they linked up with the proposed competition.
UEFA finally killed off the plan by expanding the Champions League, offering clubs a greater slice of TV and sponsorship revenue, and upping prize money.
The idea resurfaced in 2009 as Real Madrid's Florentino Perez, who had returned for a second stint as president, criticised UEFA's handling of the Champions League and called for teams to work with the body to ensure top clubs always play each other.
UEFA announced significant changes to the Champions League in 2016, saying they had managed to "keep it in the family" after staving off the threat of a breakaway league.
As a result, the top four European leagues - Spain, Germany, England and Italy - would be guaranteed four places in the group stage from the 2018-19 season.
To Sunday's development, UEFA have expressed their disapproval, claiming players participating in the Super League could be "banned from all UEFA and FIFA competitions, European or International level."
FIFA too on Sunday (18) disapproved of the proposed breakaway European Super League as it was outside of international football structures.
"FIFA can only express its disapproval to a "closed European breakaway league" outside of the international football structures and not respecting the aforementioned principles," it said in a statement.
"FIFA always stands for unity in world football and calls on all parties involved in heated discussions to engage in calm, constructive and balanced dialogue for the good of the game and in the spirit of solidarity and fair play.
"We will, of course, do whatever is necessary to contribute to a harmonised way forward in the overall interests of football."
Spanish indie duo unveil studio version of Charli XCX and Lorde collaboration
Cover marks one year since Hinds’ album Viva Hinds
New video mixes live tour moments with scenes from Madrid
Band says song resonates with their decade-long journey as a girl group
Madrid-based indie rock band Hinds have released their own version of Girl, so confusing featuring Lorde, the collaboration track from Charli XCX’s Brat remix album. The Charli XCX song has been a staple of their live shows in recent months, and the group, formed by Carlotta Cosials and Ana Perrote, have now shared a studio recording to mark the first anniversary of their album Viva Hinds.
Hinds cover Charli XCX and Lorde’s Girl so confusing calling out decade of rivalry culture in music industry Instagram/hindsband/ Getty Images
Why did Hinds cover Girl, so confusing featuring Lorde?
The original track drew attention for pairing Charli XCX with Lorde, transforming an earlier solo cut from Brat into an anthem of female solidarity. Hinds explained that they connected deeply with the message, reflecting on their decade as a girl band in an industry that often pits women against one another.
In a statement, the duo said: “Everything about this song resonates with us. We have been a girl band for four albums now, more than a decade. A decade in a world that tries to put girls against each other, comparing everything, our bodies, our songs, our way of talking and existing.”
How is Hinds’ version different from Charli XCX’s original?
While Charli XCX and Lorde’s version leans into electronic textures, Hinds reimagine the track with a raw, guitar-driven sound. Their cover strips back the polished synths and replaces them with crunchy riffs, layered harmonies, and a lo-fi garage rock energy.
Fans of the band will recognise this as part of their signature style, which has run through their four studio albums. The cover also fits seamlessly into their recent setlists, having already been road-tested on stages across Europe and the US.
Hinds released an accompanying video alongside the studio track. The visual combines footage from Madrid, where the duo recorded much of the cover, with scenes captured on the road. It shows the band performing live, working in the studio, along with candid moments backstage, in cars, and at airports.
Around 60 per cent of the video was filmed in their hometown, while the rest came from international tour stops. Shot largely by collaborator Felipe Olaya, the clip brings out the free-spirited and DIY aesthetic that has defined Hinds since their early days.
The release comes as Hinds continue their busy touring schedule in support of Viva Hinds. The band has performed more than a dozen shows across multiple continents this year, with dates scheduled through early 2025. Highlights include upcoming US shows in Brooklyn, Chicago, and a slot at California’s Ohana Festival.
In interviews, the duo have been vocal about their commitment to staying creative on the road and writing new material between concerts while balancing their relentless live energy.
Their take on Girl, so confusing featuring Lorde shows both their admiration for Charli XCX’s work and their ability to reshape contemporary pop into something that feels unmistakably their own.
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England manager Thomas Tuchel gives instructions to England's Djed Spence before he comes on as a substitute.
TOTTENHAM Hotspur defender Djed Spence made his England debut on Tuesday, becoming the first Muslim to play for the national team.
The 25-year-old came on as a substitute in the 69th minute, replacing Chelsea’s Reece James during England’s 5-0 World Cup qualifying win in Belgrade.
"I was surprised because I didn't know I was the first, so it's a blessing," Spence, who was born in London, said after the match.
"It's good to make history and hopefully inspire young kids around the world that they can make it as well. They can do what I am doing."
Spence’s debut was described as a significant moment for British Muslims, who remain under-represented in professional football despite making up 6 per cent of the UK population.
"It's a moment of celebration for British Muslims," said Ebadur Rahman, founder of Nujum Sports, an organisation that supports more than 400 Muslim athletes.
"Djed has big responsibility on his shoulders - not only is he playing for England, he is playing for Muslims around the world because he is now a role model breaking a barrier."
Spence started his career at Middlesbrough before moving to Tottenham in 2022. After loans to other clubs, he became a regular in the squad and featured in their Europa League final win last season.
His selection for England is being seen as a breakthrough for Muslim players in the country.
"We just haven't had the Muslim players coming through," said Yunus Lunat, grassroots coach and former chair of the FA's race equality advisory board.
"Muslims haven't had enough opportunities or enough role models for young, aspiring players to follow. It's not particularly good that it's taken until 2025 for a Muslim to play for England."
Spence said the moment carried deep meaning for him.
"Whatever religion you believe in, just believe in God," he said.
"Days like today are special because of God, for me. I was a little bit emotional because the journey hasn't been easy. But I am officially an England player now and I am over the moon."
(With inputs from Reuters)
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Emma Roberts and Julia Roberts share laughs on the New York red carpet during Fashion Week
Emma Roberts and Julia Roberts reunited publicly at a Jacquemus and Veuve Clicquot event in New York.
The family duo were seen in matching black ensembles with strikingly similar red hair.
Their last joint red carpet was over a decade ago in Los Angeles.
Fans praised the rare sighting after Vogue shared the moment on Instagram.
Emma Roberts made headlines after joining her aunt Julia Roberts for a rare red carpet appearance in New York, with the family pair spotted together at a Simon Porte Jacquemus and Veuve Clicquot fashion event. The video of the actresses instantly caught attention, as the stars of Pretty Woman and American Horror Story surprised fans with their stylish reunion at New York Fashion Week.
Emma Roberts and Julia Roberts share laughs on the New York red carpet during Fashion Week Instagram Sreengrab/voguemagazine
Why was Emma Roberts with Julia Roberts in New York?
The Roberts family reunion unfolded on 9 September, when Julia and Emma were captured greeting each other warmly before posing for photographers at the Jacquemus and Veuve Clicquot celebration in Central Park. The event celebrated the launch of a public immersive experience created by the French fashion designer and champagne brand.
Julia wore a sharp tailored black suit with a crisp white shirt, while Emma opted for a floor-length black gown featuring a mesh panel detail. Their flame-red hair, almost identical in shade, became a talking point online, with fans calling them “twins” in the comments under Vogue’s video.
When was the last time Emma and Julia Roberts appeared together?
Although both actresses are regulars on the red carpet, they rarely attend events side by side. Their last major outing together was in 2012 at the Los Angeles premiere of Jesus Henry Christ, a film Julia co-produced. Before that, the pair appeared at the 2010 premiere of Valentine’s Day, in which they both featured on screen.
The New York Fashion Week sighting was therefore significant for fans who have long admired their bond. Many took to social media to celebrate the reunion, with one comment reading: “LOVE seeing you both together!!! #auntiegoals.”
Julia Roberts arrives actress Emma Roberts at the "Valentine's Day" Los Angeles PremiereGetty Images
What have Emma Roberts and Julia Roberts said about their bond?
Emma has previously spoken about Julia’s impact on her career and outlook. In a June 2024 interview on the Table for Two podcast, she reflected on witnessing her aunt’s global fame up close.
“I saw very up close what that really looks like with my aunt Julia,” Emma explained. “It’s fun and it’s great, but there is a part of it that’s really scary.”
Julia herself has been supportive of her niece’s career, with the two often talking about family ties despite years of distance in the Roberts household. Emma is the only daughter of Julia’s brother, actor Eric Roberts, and Kelly Cunningham.
What are Julia Roberts and Emma Roberts working on now?
Julia Roberts’s most recent project, After The Hunt, premiered at the 82nd Venice Film Festival in August 2025, earning applause from audiences. She continues to be a leading figure in Hollywood, decades after her breakthrough in Pretty Woman.
Julia Roberts arrives at Hotel Excelsior during the 82nd Venice International Film FestivalGetty Images
Emma Roberts, meanwhile, has been balancing acting with producing. She stars in and executive produces the Hulu thriller series Tell Me Lies, which is currently filming its third season. The actress has promised fans “a lot of twists and turns” in the upcoming instalment, hinting at possible new cast members.
Emma Roberts attends the Jacquemus Menswear Spring/Summer 2026 show as part of Paris Fashion WeeGetty Images
With both women maintaining busy careers, their rare joint red carpet at New York Fashion Week just reminded fans of the enduring strength of their family bond.
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Shwetha Menon calls for fixed working hours in cinema
AMMA president Shwetha Menon calls for structured work shifts for women in cinema
She recalled working in four films during her pregnancy with director support
Deepika Padukone earlier demanded 8-hour workdays after becoming a mother
The debate on shift rules continues to divide actors and filmmakers
Actor Shwetha Menon, the first woman president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA), has added her voice to the growing call for fixed working hours in the film industry. Speaking at the India Today South Conclave 2025, she echoed Deepika Padukone’s earlier demand for eight-hour workdays, stressing that clear schedules are essential for working mothers balancing careers and family.
Shwetha Menon calls for fixed working hours in cinema Instagram/sudheesh_muthukad_and shwetha_menon
Why is Shwetha Menon calling for fixed working hours?
Shwetha Menon used her own journey to underline the need for change. She revealed that she worked on four films while pregnant and only managed because she communicated openly with directors about avoiding early morning shoots.
“I told my directors I wasn’t comfortable with early mornings, and they understood,” she said. For Menon, dialogue between filmmakers and artistes is key, but she acknowledged that many women hesitate to raise concerns out of fear of losing work.
During her time as AMMA’s first female vice president, she urged women to speak up about their struggles, but most remained silent. “Everyone is worried about their careers,” she noted. “But slowly, we will bring these issues to light.”
Shwetha Menon moves Kerala High Court to quash FIR over ‘obscene scenes’ in films Instagram/shwetha_menon
What did Deepika Padukone say about 8-hour shifts?
The debate first caught public attention when Deepika Padukone, who recently welcomed her daughter Dua with Ranveer Singh, demanded eight-hour shifts to accommodate her role as a new mother. Reports suggested her exit from the upcoming film Spirit was partly due to disagreements with director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, who refused to agree to limited working hours.
Deepika has long been vocal about the need for work-life balance. Reflecting on her battle with depression years earlier, she explained how overwork takes a toll on mental health. “If you don’t replenish and rest, you cannot put energy back into your work,” she said. She also stressed that better quality output comes from well-rested crews, not endless shooting marathons.
Deepika Padukone makes a stunning runway comeback, opening Sabyasachi’s 25th anniversary show in signature elegance Deepika Padukone makes a stunning runway comeback, opening Sabyasachi’s 25th anniversary show in signature elegance
Do all actors support fixed shifts in film shoots?
Not everyone agrees with the idea of regulated workdays in cinema. Actor Adivi Sesh argued that filmmaking cannot be compared to corporate jobs and often requires 12–18 hour schedules. “Acting is not a 9-to-5 job,” he said, pointing out that budgets and time constraints often dictate shoot lengths.
Ali Fazal, who has also produced films, echoed a similar view, noting that each project demands different hours depending on genre, VFX, or action sequences. “You can’t put a template on creativity,” he explained, adding that shift rules must be mutually decided between creators, technicians and actors rather than imposed.
The contrasting views actually highlight a growing conversation in Indian cinema about workplace reforms. For decades, long shooting hours have been the norm, often at the cost of performers’ health and family life. With high-profile voices like Deepika Padukone and Shwetha Menon pushing for structured shifts, the issue is gaining prominence.
Shwetha Menon’s election as AMMA’s first woman president has further spotlighted the topic. She has promised to advocate for better systems of communication and support for women in Malayalam cinema. Her call resonates with Padukone’s, suggesting a possible shift towards more family-friendly and humane working conditions in an industry where women have traditionally been expected to adjust without complaint.
Meanwhile, Deepika continues to balance motherhood with her career. She was last seen in Singham Again and is currently filming King alongside Shah Rukh Khan, with discussions ongoing about future projects. Shwetha, on the other hand, has been celebrated for breaking barriers in South Indian cinema, both on screen and now as a leader in industry reform.
The debate over fixed hours is far from settled. While some argue that cinema thrives on flexibility, others believe that structured shifts could bring long-overdue respect for artistes’ personal lives. With both Deepika Padukone and Shwetha Menon making the demand, the conversation around work-life balance in Indian cinema may finally be entering the mainstream.
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The event also included a financial report, a documentary on the organisation’s history, and an exhibition on Hindu genocide in the subcontinent.
THE BANGLADESH Hindu Association UK marked its 25th founding anniversary with a silver jubilee programme on Saturday, August 30, at the Ravidassia Community Centre in Manor Park, East London.
Members from Birmingham, Bradford, Loughborough, Portsmouth, Hull, Sheffield, Leeds and Coventry attended the event.
President Proshanta Purokayastha BEM presided and general secretary Sujith Chowdhury conducted the programme, which began with recitations from the Sri Sri Bhagavad Gita, conch sounds and Rabindra Sangeet.
UK minister for works and pensions Sir Stephen Timms MP was chief guest and former MP Virendra Sharma was special guest. The president unveiled the anniversary magazine Roots with them.
Sir Stephen Timms MP said he was delighted to see the large turnout and praised “BHAUK's remarkable progress, social cohesion and consensus.” Referring to the youth presence, he said, “the new generation will continue the activities of BHA in the future.”
Virendra Sharma said, “it is the responsibility of the new generation to carry forward the exemplary success achieved by BHA UK over the last 25 years.” He added, “the consensus and collective efforts of the Hindu community will further strengthen the bonds of peace and harmony in the society.”
The event also included a financial report, a documentary on the organisation’s history, and an exhibition on Hindu genocide in the subcontinent.
A new committee was announced, awards were distributed, and cultural performances were staged.
President Proshanta Purokayastha thanked members for their support over 25 years.