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Tonight’s final Serie A games were thrown into chaos when Juventus ultras ordered their players not to take to the field, so the other four matches went ahead regardless.
The Derby della Mole between Torino and Juventus has not kicked off yet, and Bianconeri ultras don’t want to play it at all.
Ultras of Juventus and Torino clashed outside the stadium hours before kick-off, and one Bianconeri fan was hospitalised in a critical but not life-threatening condition, according to Sky Sport.
Why is Torino vs. Juventus not being played?
TURIN, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Juventus players acknowledge the fans at the end of the Serie A match between Juventus and Venezia at Allianz Stadium on December 14, 2024 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Therefore, Juventus ultras asked that the game not be played, talking directly to their players multiple times during the warm-up.
Torino-Juventus was among the final five games of the Serie A season, all of which were scheduled to kick off at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).
The final matches are all meant to begin simultaneously to ensure fairness and no unfair advantage from knowing the other results.
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 08: Fans of Torino FC during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Torino FC at on November 08, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
However, that means Milan-Cagliari, Verona-Roma, Lecce-Genoa and Cremonese-Como were all waiting around for Juventus to emerge from the dressing room.
After a ten-minute wait, Lega Serie A gave the green light to start the other four matches, while Juventus and Torino players are still waiting inside the dressing room.
According to Sky, police and authorities fear that if the derby begins, Juventus ultras will enter the field, causing even more security concerns.
Torino ultras, in the meantime, have removed banners from the Curva Maratona, suggesting that they agree with not playing the game, while Juventus and Torino do want the match to go ahead.
Juventus CEO Damien Comolli says he and Luciano Spalletti have ‘clear ideas’ on how to improve the team in 2026-27, but is ‘sad’ that some Bianconeri fans have been hospitalised after clashes before the Turin derby.
Juventus visit Torino on Sunday in the derby della Mole that ends the 2025-26 Serie A campaign.
Comolli: ‘Very worried’ after clashes between Juventus and Torino ultras
“We are very worried, it’s very sad. I apologise, I get emotional when I talk about the fans,” Comolli told Sky Sport Italia.
“We are worried about what is going on. It’s very sad. We are worried because some of the fans have gone to the hospital, and I’ll surely go to see them later. I hope they recover soon. When I came here, I learned that some fans needed medical attention, so my mood immediately changed.”
SASSUOLO, ITALY – JANUARY 06: (L-R) Francois Modesto, Juventus Technical Director, Marco Ottolini, Sporting Director of Juventus and Damien Comolli, General Manager of Juventus talk prior to the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Juventus FC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on January 06, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Juventus ultras who have entered the stadium have told their players they don’t want the game to be played, but it’s expected the match will go ahead.
Juventus sit sixth in the standings with just 90 minutes remaining. Therefore, they need a win in today’s derby to qualify for the Champions League, but also hope that two between Roma, Como and Milan drop points today.
“First, we must win the game; it’s very important to the club, the fans, and the players. There isn’t a Plan A or B. There’s a unique plan: to build a winning team in the short-term future, whether we qualify for the Champions League or not,” Comolli said.
“Everyone has responsibility, but the biggest responsibility is mine, surely. It’s important to understand what didn’t work. It’s all clear for Luciano, it’s all clear for the club and me. The only thing to do now is to build a strong team with the coach, Luciano, and a clear idea of what we need.”
TURIN, ITALY – MAY 17: Players of Juventus FC face the fans after the Serie A match between Juventus FC and ACF Fiorentina at Allianz Stadium on May 17, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Chris Ricco/Getty Images)
Where exactly do Juventus need to improve?
“Many things, because we are sixth. Today we want to win, but it might be enough for the Champions League,” Comolli said.
“There have been problems, but it’s important to analyse them internally with the club rather than talk today. As I said, for us, it’s very clear what we need to change.”
BOLOGNA, ITALY – APRIL 25: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma looks on during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on April 25, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
The Giallorossi put themselves in a strong position with victory in the Derby della Capitale over rivals Lazio, also taking advantage of Juventus suffering a shock 2-0 home defeat to Fiorentina.
It means if they win here today, then it will guarantee qualification for the Champions League and a top four Serie A finish.
However, although Verona were relegated weeks ago, they have drawn three of their last four games, including against Juve and Inter.
Gasperini confident for Roma
PARMA, ITALY – MAY 10: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma, looks on pose for a team photograph prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and AS Roma at Stadio Ennio Tardini on May 10, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“There was excitement, but also calm, because we are aware that we’ve had a good season and winning the derby was also reassuring. Now there is the final step and it would be positive for everyone,” Gasperini told DAZN Italia.
“We’ll see how the game goes, but we always stay true to our characteristics. Verona are causing difficulties for every opponent despite their relegation, we know how tough this will be, but that just adds to our motivation.”
Wesley is suspended following his red card against Lazio, with Evan Ndicka, Bryan Zaragoza, Lorenzo Pellegrini and Evan Ferguson injured.
“We just need to get out there and play our game, because I feel the right concentration in the team,” concluded Gasperini.
The Antonio Conte era at Napoli is over, and Partenopei fans honoured the Italian tactician after a 1-0 win over Udinese on Sunday.
Napoli fans paid tribute to Conte after the final game of the season on Sunday.
COMO, ITALY – MAY 02: SSC Napoli coach Antonio Conte looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Italian tactician is expected to confirm his exit during a post-match press conference today, but his departure from the Stadio Maradona after two years has already been confirmed by all Italian media outlets.
The whole stadium clapped Conte at full-time today with Partenopei supporters singing ‘Olé Olé Olé, Mister.’
NAPLES, ITALY – MAY 11: Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Bologna FC 1909 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on May 11, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Ultras also showed a banner that read: “You honoured the shirt at home and away, even when our help wasn’t there. Today, the coach and the team receive a deserved tribute.”
Milan director of sport Igli Tare insists Luka Modric ‘will say yes’ to a new season at San Siro, but his own future is up in the air. ‘We are paid to get results.’
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).
The Rossoneri had struggled recently, but last week’s 2-1 win away to Genoa and Juventus crumbling at home to Fiorentina mean that a victory here would guarantee qualification for the Champions League.
Tare and Milan keep focused
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Igli Tare of AC Milan looks on prior to the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
“We tried to close ourselves off to all these rumours, because this is a fundamental match and it must take us to the target we set at the start of the season, so we can celebrate together with our fans,” Tare told DAZN Italia.
Although Rafael Leao, Alexis Saelemaekers and Pervis Estupinan are all back from suspension, only the Belgian is chosen to start, with Leao and Christian Pulisic benched in favour of Santiago Gimenez and Christopher Nkunku.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Luka Modric of AC Milan is assisted off by medical staff after going down injured during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Modric is on the bench this evening after surgery for a facial fracture, but has not yet decided whether to stay on with the Rossoneri or go elsewhere.
“I think ultimately he will remain, as he is a Milanista, he is very fond of everyone here and the fans, so I am convinced he will say yes.”
There was a summit this afternoon between patron Gerry Cardinale, RedBird advisors Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Massimo Calvelli, plus chief scout Geoffrey Moncada.
However, director of sport Igli Tare and CEO Giorgio Furlani were notably absent.
VERONA, ITALY – APRIL 19: Igli Tare, Sporting Director of AC Milan looks on prior to the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and AC Milan at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on April 19, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
There were protests outside the stadium before kick-off, including a huge banner reading: ‘Furlani out, Ibra, Moncada and Scaroni follow him quickly!’
Does Tare think tonight’s result will decide his future as well?
“I don’t know. We are paid to get results, as Max said yesterday, the important thing is to focus together on this target. From tomorrow, we can play for the future.”
Milan ultras staged a new protest ahead of the final game of the season against Cagliari, hitting out at Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Giorgio Furlani and Geoffrey Moncada, but defending Igli Tare.
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Igli Tare of AC Milan looks on prior to the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
There was a summit this afternoon between patron Gerry Cardinale, RedBird advisors Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Massimo Calvelli, plus chief scout Geoffrey Moncada.
However, director of sport Igli Tare and CEO Giorgio Furlani were notably absent.
epa10157496 AC Milan owner Gerry Cardinale (R) before the Italian Serie A soccer match between AC Milan and FC Inter at Giuseppe Meazza stadium in Italy, 03 September 2022. EPA-EFE/ROBERTO BREGANI
There were protests outside the stadium before kick-off, including a huge banner reading: ‘Furlani out, Ibra, Moncada and Scaroni follow him quickly!’
“The time will come for verdicts, thanking those who allowed us to challenge for a Champions League spot in the final round, despite everything.
“They are Coach Allegri and Igli Tare, with rumours of a dismissal at the end of the season leaving a bitter taste in the mouth. If that were true, the director of sport would be just the latest victim of someone else’s incompetence, of directors who do nothing but poke their noses into the choice of signings and transfer strategy, without forgetting the devastating effect that the behaviour of some Rossoneri ‘managers’ had on the squad.
“This is the situation every year, and once again they’ve managed to find the scapegoat, another head to roll into the path of the American to hide their own failure, when Furlani, Ibrahimovic and Moncada ought to be the first to recognise their errors and pack their bags, freeing Milan from the mediocrity they brought over the last four years.”
Milan know that a victory over Cagliari will suffice to guarantee a Champions League spot, as they have a two-point advantage over Juventus and Como going into the final round.
Juventus and Torino ultras clashed outside the Stadio Grande Torino on Sunday, just a few hours before the Derby della Mole kick-off.
Torino host Juventus at the Stadio Grande Torino on Sunday in the last game of the 2025-26 Serie A campaign.
Torino and Juventus ultras clash before Turin derby
Ultras members of the two Turin-based clubs violently clashed outside the stadium hours before kick-off, throwing fireworks, bottles and stones.
As reported by Repubblica, the police intervened a few minutes later, using smoke grenades to disperse the two factions.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: A detailed view of the corner flag inside the Juventus Stadium prior to the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)TURIN, ITALY – MAY 17: Players of Juventus FC face the fans after the Serie A match between Juventus FC and ACF Fiorentina at Allianz Stadium on May 17, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Chris Ricco/Getty Images)
Days before the game, Torino had warned ticket buyers in the Distinti and Curva Primavera sectors not to enter the stadium wearing Juventus merch, sparking an angry reaction from the Bianconeri.
As reported by Sportitalia, the Juventus team bus was hit by several bottles thrown by Torino supporters upon arriving at the stadium.
The Stadio Grande Torino is sold out for the first time in four months tonight, as Granata supporters boycotted the previous home games in protest against owner Urbano Cairo.
Antonio Conte bowed out as Napoli coach with a victory over 10-man Udinese thanks to Rasmus Hojlund, but yet more injury problems.
The Partenopei locked down a top four finish last week and Champions League qualification, so could say goodbye to their coach after two seasons and as many trophies, the Scudetto and Supercoppa Italiana.
Matteo Politano returned from suspension and Kevin De Bruyne still dealing with a head injury, with Alessandro Buongiorno and Leonardo Spinazzola joining Romelu Lukaku on the absentee list. Udinese had Hassane Kamara on a one-match ban, with Nicolò Zaniolo, Jurgen Ekkelenkamp, Juan Arizala and Alessandro Zanoli sidelined.
NAPLES, ITALY – MAY 24: Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Udinese Calcio at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on May 24, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Maduka Okoye needed a fingertip save to deny Alisson Santos on an Eljif Elmas assist within 70 seconds, but the same player pulled up mid-sprint clutching the back of his left thigh soon after and was forced into an early ending to his season, replaced by De Bruyne.
NAPLES, ITALY – MAY 24: Alisson Santos of SSC Napoli injured during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Udinese Calcio at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on May 24, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Alex Meret got down for a great save on Jesper Karlstrom’s half-volley from the edge of the area, but it was Napoli who took the lead.
De Bruyne placed a simply perfectly weighted pass into the path of Hojlund, who ran forward and finished while sliding in from eight yards.
Hojlund went down in the box under pressure from Christian Kabasele, but the referee waved away penalty appeals, then Stanislav Lobotka also limped off with a suspected calf strain.
Kabasele wrestled Hojlund to the ground during a lay-off, but the tussle continued after the ball had gone and the Udinese player kicked out at his opponent. At first it was a yellow card, but changed to red following a VAR review.
Nonetheless, Udinese threatened an equaliser with Idrissa Gueye on a corner, denied by a desperate defensive block almost on the line.
NAPLES, ITALY – MAY 24: Rasmus Hojlund of SSC Napoli battles for possession with Christian Kabasele of Udinese Calcio during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Udinese Calcio at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on May 24, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Napoli had a huge chance too when Hojlund got away from two with a lovely bit of skill and pulled back from the by-line only for McTominay to balloon over from six yards.
It proved enough to lock down second place in the final Serie A table.
Going into the final games of the Serie A season, two of the top four and one last relegation berth are still to be decided.
Those two races collide in Cremona, where Cremonese know even a victory might not be enough to save them from the drop, and Como are in a similar position for the Champions League.
Lecce have only a one-point advantage, and if they finish level with Cremonese, there will be a relegation play-off.
COMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 27: Anastasios Douvikas of Como 1907 competes for the ball with Romano Floriani Mussolini of US Cremonese during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and US Cremonese at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on September 27, 2025 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Cremonese vs. Como
Cremonese had the worst build-up to this match, as a stomach bug swept through the squad, ruling out Warren Bondo, Martin Payero, Faris Moumbagna and Mikayil Faye. Antonio Sanabria, Federico Baschirotto and Federico Ceccherini are also injured, so all hopes are pinned on Jamie Vardy.
Como only have Nico Paz fit for the bench, with Alex Valle and Jayden Addai long-term absentees, so Jesus Rodriguez steps in with Martin Baturina, Assane Diao and Tasos Douvikas.
Como: Butez; Smolcic, Ramon, Kempf, Moreno; Perrone, Da Cunha; Diao, Baturina, Jesus Rodriguez; Douvikas
UDINE, ITALY – MAY 17: Jamie Vardy of Cremonese celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and US Cremonese at Stadio Friuli on May 17, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Lecce vs. Genoa
Lecce know a victory would guarantee their Serie A safety, but have only a one-point advantage over Cremonese. Medon Berisha and Riccardo Sottil miss out, with Lameck Banda, Ylber Ramadani and Santiago Pierotti not at 100 per cent either.
Vitinha is suspended for Genoa, with Ruslan Malinovskyi, Leo Ostigard, Tommaso Baldanzi, Caleb Ekuban, Jeff Ekhator, Junior Messias, Maxwel Cornet and Jean Onana injured.
Milan know a win against Cagliari would guarantee Champions League football, but Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic are benched in favour of Santiago Gimenez and Christopher Nkunku.
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).
Coach Max Allegri is far from secure either, and he takes a bold swing tonight by leaving Leao on the bench, even after the Portugal international returned from suspension.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Rafael Leao of AC Milan warms up prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Alexis Saelemaekers and Pervis Estupinan are also back after missing the win away to Genoa on bans, while Pulisic is struggling with his fitness.
Luka Modric is again on the bench just a month after surgery on a facial fracture, so if he does make his comeback, would wear a protective mask.
Ardon Jashari gets the nod to replace him rather than Samuele Ricci or Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
Gimenez and Nkunku form the front two once more in a gamble from the coach.
Cagliari guaranteed their Serie A safety with last week’s 2-1 win over Torino and there are reports coach Fabio Pisacane is being courted by bigger clubs.
Semih Kilicsoy and Michael Folorunsho have been left behind, with Leonardo Pavoletti and Riyad Idrissi injured.
Several players are brought along from the youth team that just won the Primavera Play-Out against Napoli.
Marco Palestra plays his last game for Cagliari and is widely expected to play at San Siro next season for Inter.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – FEBRUARY 16: Marco Palestra of Cagliari in action during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and US Lecce at Stadio Sant’Elia on February 16, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
It’s a must-win game for Juventus, who sit sixth in the Serie A table, level on points with Como and two points below Roma and Milan in fourth.
In order to qualify for the Champions League, Juventus must win and hope that at least two between Milan, Roma and Como fail to win.
TURIN, ITALY – MAY 08: Roberto D’Aversa Head Coach of Torino FC gestures during the Serie A match between Torino FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on May 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Tino Anjorin, Zakaria Aboukhlal and Luca Marianucci are injured for Torino, while Guillermo Maripan is suspended.
Juventus are without the suspended Gleison Bremer and the injured Kenan Yildiz.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Jeremie Boga of Juventus celebrates after scoring the his team’s fourth goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
Mattia Perin starts in goal for the Old Lady, replacing a disappointing Michele Di Gregorio. Khephren Thuram is not fully fit but starts in the middle of the park alongside Manuel Locatelli.
Dusan Vlahovic gets the nod up front, so Canada international Jonathan David begins on the bench alongside Lois Openda.
Roma are forced to reshuffle for this decisive final trip to relegated Verona, but look to Paulo Dybala, Donyell Malen and Matias Soulé for Champions League qualification.
The Giallorossi know that a victory here would guarantee a top four finish and ticket to the Champions League, as they go into the last round with a two-point advantage over both Juventus and Como.
However, Gian Piero Gasperini does not have a full squad at his disposal, as Wesley is suspended following his red card in the fiery Derby della Capitale.
Evan Ndicka picked up an injury in that game, missing out with Bryan Zaragoza, Lorenzo Pellegrini and Evan Ferguson.
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Daniele Ghilardi of AS Roma in action during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Cremonese at Stadio Olimpico on February 22, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Daniele Ghilardi therefore steps into the back three, with Neil El Aynaoui and Devyne Rensch starting.
The big decision was believed to be between Matias Soulé and Niccolò Pisilli in support of centre-forward Malen and revitalised Dybala.
Instead, Gasperini starts all of them, leaving Neil El Aynaoui on the bench instead.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 17: Matteo Cancellieri of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Paulo Dybala of AS Rom during the Serie A match between AS Roma and SS Lazio at Stadio Olimpico on May 17, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Verona were relegated weeks ago, but are fresh off a 1-1 draw with Scudetto winners Inter and have drawn three of their last four games, including away to Juventus.
Roberto Gagliardini sits out a ban, with Daniel Mosquera, Suat Serdar and Daniel Oyegoke injured.
Roberto De Zerbi’s Tottenham celebrated survival on Sunday, beating Everton 1-0, but there was tension on the touchline in the opening stages with the Italian tactician and Guglielmo Vicario angrily arguing with David Moyes and Seamus Coleman.
A Joao Palinha goal allowed Tottenham to beat Everton 1-0 on Sunday to secure Premier League survival.
LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 24: James Maddison and Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham Hotspur celebrate after the team secured safety from relegation during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Everton at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on May 24, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
De Zerbi and Vicario took centre stage during the match, first by arguing with Everton coach Moyes and defender Coleman and then when the goalkeeper almost choked De Zerbi while celebrating Palinha’s goal.
LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 24: Roberto De Zerbi, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur, celebrates after the team secured safety from relegation during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Everton at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on May 24, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
Tottenham hired De Zerbi at the end of March, and the Italian tactician has collected three wins, two draws and two losses during his time in North London.
Vicario and De Zerbi argue with Everton’s coach and defender
Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi and Everton manager David Moyes arguing…
Then Guglielmo Vicario and Seamus Coleman go at it as well
Jarrod Bowen will be among the most sought after players this summer after West Ham’s relegation, with reports linking several Premier League giants with the winger.
Despite the club’s devastating drop from the top flight, the England international’s stock remains incredibly high after another impressive individual campaign.
However, despite intense speculation surrounding his future, the winger has dropped a massive hint that he intends to spearhead the Hammers’ promotion charge next season.
Liverpool, Man United, Chelsea among Premier League clubs chasing Jarrod Bowen
Unsurprisingly, West Ham’s relegation has put Europe’s elite on high alert.
Liverpool, Manchester United, and Chelsea are all reportedly monitoring Bowen’s situation closely, viewing him as a proven Premier League talent available at a potentially cut-price fee.
The financial pressure on West Ham only intensifies the situation. Reports suggest the club could need to raise upwards of £100 million in player sales if they are to navigate life in the Championship and with Bowen earning a reported £150,000 per week and contracted until 2030, a sizeable transfer fee could be on the cards should a suitor come calling.
Bowen’s comments suggests he will stay at West Ham next season
Despite the chorus of clubs queuing up for his signature, Bowen’s post-match words after the Leeds defeat sent a powerful message about where his loyalties lie.
Speaking to BBC Match of the Day, he refused point-blank to entertain questions about his future, calling any such discussion disrespectful given how raw the pain of relegation felt.
“I’ve been here six and a half years now. Had a lot of good moments and this outweighs all of it. Getting this club relegated… it hurts.”
Asked directly about potential interest from elsewhere, Bowen shut the conversation down emphatically:
“It’s disrespectful to everyone to start talking about that. I want this club to be in the Premier League. It’s a club that means so much to me and has given me so much so my vision is to get this club back in the Premier League.”
"My vision is getting this club back in the Premier League." ?
West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen says it hurts to see the club relegated to the Championship for the first time in 16 years ?? pic.twitter.com/6JVG2tO8G6
Those are the words of a man who, at least for now, sees his future in east London. Whether sentiment alone can keep one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers in the Championship this summer remains the question that will dominate the window.
So, that’s it – after 38 games the Premier League season is done and dusted for 2025/26, with Tottenham surviving relegation on the final day.
Arsenal had already been confirmed as Premier League champions earlier this week, but there was still a lot to play for in today’s final round of matches.
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There were also records broken and some emotional farewells, so take a look at our round-up below in case you missed any of it!
Tottenham survive as West Ham go down
Tottenham beat Everton 1-0 thanks to a goal from Joao Palhinha, meaning West Ham’s 3-0 win against Leeds wasn’t enough to keep them up.
See below for wild scenes as Roberto De Zerbi celebrated securing Spurs’ place in the top flight, even if overall this was another hugely disappointing campaign, with the north Londoners finishing in 17th place for a second year in a row…
It’s OVER at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium and Spurs secure their spot in the Premier League next season! pic.twitter.com/TLnhVYNK0m
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 24, 2026
West Ham beat Leeds pretty comfortably in the end, but they needed an Everton win or a crazy goal difference swing to secure survival, so they’re now preparing for life in the Championship.
Bruno Fernandes breaks assist record
Manchester United didn’t have a lot to play for on the final day as they’d already secured Champions League football and third place in the table.
It’s been a superb season for Fernandes, who has once again fully established himself as Man Utd’s most important player, and indeed perhaps the best player in the English top flight right now.
Arsenal win again ahead of trophy lift
Arsenal knew they were champions going into this game, but they picked up another three points with a 2-1 win against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
The Gunners rested a lot of their first XI as they have a Champions League final to prepare for, but scored first through Gabriel Jesus and added a second through Noni Madueke.
Jean-Philippe Mateta pulled one back for Palace, but that result puts Arsenal on a final tally of 85 points, more than the 84 Liverpool won the league with last year.
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Manchester City lose in emotional final game for Pep & Bernardo
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 24, 2026
Today was more about saying farewell to Pep Guardiola than anything else, but of course Manchester City will be disappointed to have finished with a defeat.
Antoine Semenyo put MCFC in front but a double from Ollie Watkins gave Aston Villa the final day victory, meaning a seven-point gap between first and second place.
City paid special tributes not only to Guardiola, but also to departing legends Bernardo Silva and John Stones, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.
What else happened on the final day?
We also had some big news on the European football front, as newly-promoted Sunderland beat Chelsea to secure a pretty sensational 7th place finish and Europa League football for next season.
Bournemouth will also be in the Europa League, with Villa’s win at City and Liverpool’s draw against Brentford denting their Champions League hopes, though fans will still be delighted with a superb season and a 6th place finish.
Brighton, meanwhile, will be in the Europa Conference League, while Chelsea’s defeat saw them slip to 10th and miss out on Europe altogether.
On a day of farewells, it was also emotional at Anfield as Mohamed Salah and Andrew Roberson played their final games for Liverpool and said goodbye to the fans.
In his 10 starts this season, Cabrera has compiled a 4.00 ERA with 47 strikeouts and 20 walks in 50 innings. That strikeout total is tied with Jameson Tallion for the second-most among Cubs starters behind Shota Imanaga’s 61.
Cabrera, 28, left his start last Wednesday in the fourth inning after throwing 61 pitches, 32 of them for strikes. He allowed four runs (three unearned due to errors on Carson Kelly and Pete Crow-Armstrong) with four hits and two walks in a 5-0 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers.
Looking like another pitcher injury for the Cubs as Edward Cabrera exits the game in the fourth inning pic.twitter.com/RHIf0MiRFI
— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) May 21, 2026
Since beginning the season with no runs allowed in his first two starts, Cabrera has been tagged for three runs or more in eight consecutive appearances.
Expected to miss at least two weeks, Cabrera is the latest Cubs starting pitcher to go on the injured list, joining Matthew Boyd (left knee), Justin Steele (left elbow) and Cade Horton (right elbow). Horton will miss the rest of the 2026 season after undergoing an internal brace procedure. Steele is recovering from the same surgery performed in April 2025.
Cabrera, 28, was acquired from the Miami Marlins during the offseason in exchange for three prospects, including outfielder Owen Caissie. Last season was a career-best performance for Cabrera, who finished with a 3.53 ERA in 26 starts and 150 strikeouts in 137 2/3 inning.
Jordan Wicks was called up from Triple-A Iowa to take Cabrera’s place in the Cubs’ starting rotation. In seven starts, the 26-year-old has a 4.44 ERA with 20 strikeouts in 26 1/3 innings. He made eight relief appearances for the Cubs last season, compiling a 6.28 ERA and strikeout rate of 8.2 per nine innings.
This will be the fourth MLB stint for Wicks, the Cubs’ first-round pick (No. 21 overall) in 2021 out of Kansas State.
The Cubs held a 3.5-game first-place lead in the NL Central before their losing skid began. Since losing 13 of 15 games — including a three-game sweep by the Brewers —they’ve fallen 2.5 games behind, leaving them in third place by a half-game behind the St. Louis Cardinals going into Sunday’s play.
CINCINNATI (AP) — The St. Louis Cardinals' game against the Cincinnati Reds was postponed because of rain Sunday and rescheduled as part of a day-night doubleheader on Aug. 17.
After Friday's series opener between the NL Central rivals was postponed, the teams split a doubleheader on Saturday. St. Louis won the first game 8-1 and Cincinnati took the nightcap 7-6 in 11 innings.
The Cardinals (29-22) have gone 15-9 since April 27, the fourth-best mark in the NL. They also have at least 29 wins through the first 50 games for the first time since 2015, when they won the NL Central.
The Reds have not been swept in their last 40 series at home, the team's longest run since 2011 through ‘13, when they weren’t swept in 52 consecutive series at Great American Ball Park.
St. Louis heads to Milwaukee for a series starting Monday while Cincinnati is at the New York Mets.
Amad put in his best performance of 2026 vs Brighton
Manchester United swept Brighton & Hove Albion aside 3-0 in their final Premier League game of the season away at the Amex Stadium on Sunday.
Patrick Dorgu opened the scoring from another Bruno Fernandes assist, while Bryan Mbeumo handed the visitors a two-nil lead heading into the break.
In the second half, the Dane returned the favour to his skipper as the Portugal international rounded off the scoring.
The Denmark international and the club captain will rightly take most of the credit for the Red Devils’ excellent end to the season, but Michael Carrick will be pleased with the performance put in by Amad.
Amad registered his first assist of the year
The Ivorian and Mason Mount combined to perfection, before the 23-year-old served it on a plate for Mbeumo to score United’s second of the day.
It was the former Atalanta ace’s first assist of 2026, and a welcome return to form for a player who is among the very few to have struggled since Carrick’s arrival.
stats via sofascore
Amad ended the game with an impressive pass completion rate of 91%, with 96% of his passes in the opposition half finding their target.
He was not shot-shy, unlike in previous encounters, as he made the goalkeeper work with two decent attempts.
His best performance under Carrick
The right winger completed one dribble and was rock solid without the ball as well, winning all his tackles and making two interceptions.
Relentless on the counter-press, he recovered the ball on seven occasions (all stats via sofascore).
Since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, the Ivory Coast international has looked a shadow of his former self.
He has struggled to beat his man and has chosen to pass when there was an opportunity to shoot, which just highlighted that his confidence was shot to bits.
Time for Amad to start performing
Why and how? Nobody knows, but an assist on the final day of the season will please both the head coach and the winger himself.
There were murmurs that the 20-time English league champions should look to strengthen on the right given the struggles of Amad.
Hopefully, he can use today’s performance as fuel and show up and start performing in pre-season to change the narrative around his future.
The New England Patriots are making some changes to their WR depth chart this offseason.
One is already locked in: Romeo Doubs signed in free agency, essentially taking the spot vacated by Stefon Diggs.
It could get more crowded as soon as June 2, though. The Pats are looking at a trade for Philadelphia Eagles star A.J. Brown. It's better for Philly's salary cap situation if they trade Brown away after June 1, so that's the rhythm this is operating on.
One guy who would be greatly impacted if Brown comes to town is second-year wideout Kyle Williams.
Williams was a third-round pick last season but had just 10 catches the whole year.
The Pats still have Kayshon Boutte, so the best Williams would potentially do is seize the No. 4 WR role.
Clearly, that's not a spot where he can maximize his potential.
"Williams hopes to do more work in the middle of the field," Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio wrote on Sunday. "He’s also intent on building chemistry with quarterback Drake Maye and mastering the team’s playbook. The passing attack in New England undoubtedly will be very different this season. Stefon Diggs has been released. Romeo Doubs has arrived. And A.J. Brown could still be on the way. Williams will have extra competition for reps and targets. The offseason work seems to be all about getting more than his 336 snaps in 2025 (31 percent) and 21 total regular-season targets."
Florio mentioned an ESPN report that says Williams gained between five and eight pounds this offseason.
It's a good sign that Williams is putting the work in. That's the first step toward breaking through.
But if the Pats do get Brown, it'll hold back Williams' development. That's not to say they shouldn't do it, but it's certainly a potential consequence.
After dropping two straight games to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the San Antonio Spurs will look to tie the Western Conference finals up at two games apiece with a victory in Game 4 on Sunday night.
The good news for the Spurs is that health appears to be on their side for the critical contest.
De'Aaron Fox will play in Game 4 of Western Conference finals vs. Thunder
After missing the first two games of the series with San Antonio due to a right ankle injury, star guard De'Aaron Fox returned to the active lineup for San Antonio in the third game of the series and tallied 15 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists in 31 minutes of action.
Fox clearly didn't further injure the ankle in the third game, as he's not listed on the official injury report for Game 4 on Sunday night, indicating that he'll be available for the game.
"I feel all right, good enough to play," Fox said after the game. "So, that's all that matters."
Fox has been averaging 18.5 points, 5.8 assists, 3.8 rebounds and 1.1 steals per performance this postseason.
In addition to Fox, no other Spurs players were listed on the injury report either, so San Antonio should be at full-strength for the game.
With the Cincinnati Reds sitting through a rain delay Sunday at Great American Ball Park, general manager Brad Meador could have had a moment of free time to reach out to thank his Athletics counterpart, David Frost, for non-tendering JJ Bleday last offseason, leading to his Cincinnati Reds' one-year, $1.4 million deal.
Did Meador deliver a text or two when Bleday clubbed six home runs in his first 17 games with the Reds? Wonder what emojis accompanied the messages?
At the time, with a glut of outfield prospects in the system, few MLB insiders overly criticized Frost's financial philosophy.
Reds' JJ Bleday benefiting from Athletics' roster miscalculation
With rising centerfield prospect Danzel Clarke apparently ready to assume a starter's role and corner outfielders Tyler Soderstrom and Lawrence Butler in the corners set for a breakout, Frost calculated the franchise couldn't afford Belday's projected arbitration salary, which would fall around the $2.2 million mark.
In three seasons with the Athletics, Bleday appeared in 339 games and posted a .224 batting average with 44 home runs and 126 RBI. In 98 appearances last season, he connected on 14 homers, but only batted .212 and drove in 39 runs. In '24, Bleday received his most extensive playing time. His defensive metrics remained pedestrian and he struck out 125 times in 572 at-bats.
Frost likely believed he was investing the franchise's money more wisely by focusing on Clarke, Soderstrom and Butler.
Opps.
Clarke, who opened this season with a .170 batting average in 22 games, remains on the 10-day injured list. Soderstrom, who entered Sunday with the team's second-most at-bats (185), was hitting .195 with five home runs. Butler was batting .168 in 137 at-bats.
Utilized up and down the Reds' batting order, Bleday continues to develop into a versatile piece of the lineup. On Saturday, he batted leadoff during the 8-1 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals in the opener of a doubleheader and drew a walk in four plate appearances. In the nightcap, a 7-6 win in 11 innings, he batted third and went 0-for-5 with three strikeouts. His average dipped to .271.
Before going a combined 0-for-9 Saturday, Bleday delivered at least one hit in 15 of 22 games.
The Athletics (26-26), who entered Sunday's matchup against the host San Diego Padres on a two-game losing streak, paced the AL West by 1.5 games over the Seattle Mariners. With their outfielders going a combined 1-for-9 Saturday, the Athletics were shut out, 2-0 at Petco Park.
Wonder which emojis Frost would have selected if he messaged Meador on Saturday?
ST. CLAIRSVILLE — For the area's elite track and field student-athletes, the first hurdle of the postseason is now officially cleared. Following a spectacular week of breakout performances at the district championships, local track and field standouts are shifting their focus to next week's regional meets (May 27-30). Leading the charge for the local contingent are the Cambridge girls, who clawed out a thrilling Division III district team title at St. Clairsville High School with 77 points, narrowly pushing past local rival John Glenn (73 points) on Saturday, May 23.
The road only gets steeper from here, as surviving the upcoming regional weekend is the only way to earn a spot at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium for the historic , newly expanded OHSAA Jesse Owens Track and Field State Championships scheduled for June 4-7 in Columbus.
Top of the Podium: Local stars dominate districts
The battle for the top spot on the podium at St. Clairsville featured some of the finest individual performances of the season, fueled by a championship mindset.
"We are super excited about the team win and extremely proud of all the girls. Throughout the entire season, we have stressed the importance of trusting the process, and their hard work is truly paying off," Cambridge girls coach Tamara Gibson said. "This week, we talked a lot about faith — what true faith in themselves looks like — and once they fully believe in themselves, anything is possible. Our regional qualifiers now have the opportunity to continue their season for two more weeks, and we are excited to see what they can accomplish next."
That belief translated into top level efforts on the track and in the field as well. Audrina Gibson dominated the sprints for the Lady Bobcats, capturing district titles in the 100-meter dash with a time of 12.76, before clocking a personal-best 46.94 time to win the 300-meter hurdles. Gibson also anchored the first place CHS 4x100 relay team to secure their regional ticket. Freshman teammate Paisley Williams stole the show with an impressive 12-10 to break the Eastern District record and claim the Division III district title in the pole vault.
John Glenn pushed the Bobcats to the absolute brink, heavily anchored by a sensational distance triple effort from Ashlynn Kuklica who put forth a huge day. Kuklica was unstoppable, sweeping the 800-meter run (2:18.34), the 1600-meter run (5:16.95), and the 3200-meter run (11:17.44) before turning around to run a leg on the Muskies' runner-up 4x400-meter relay team.
The individual performance of the postseason belonged to Shenandoah senior Braxton Barnett at the Newcomerstown district meet. Barnett put together a historic effort with four first place showings. He swept the hurdle events taking the 110-meter hurdles (14.55), and the 300-meter hurdles (37.92). He then took his talents to the field events, claiming the top spots in the long jump (22'8") and the high jump (6'6"). Also finding championship success was Barnesville's Kali Jones who took the district title in the long jump with a leap of 15 feet, 9 inches.
On the boys side, host St. Clairsville ran away with the team crown with 142.50 points, but local teams were able to make plenty of noise. Meadowbrook finished as the district runner-up with an impressive 96 points, followed by Cambridge in sixth (60.5 points), and John Glenn in seventh (54 points).
The Colts' second-place charge featured a historic performance from freshman Vincent Campbell, who shattered the school record in the 3200-meter run with a winning time of 9:36.10. Campbell also added a second-place finish in the 1600-meter, setting another school record with a time of 4:23.13. Meadowbrook also took a top spot in field events, with Jamarcus Berger claiming the district title in the long jump with a winning leap of 21'5.25".
The Cambridge boys were paced by Tate Sikora, who swept the short sprints by winning both the 100-meter dash (11.61) and the 200-meter dash (23.52), while qualifying for the regionals with both the Bobcats' 4x100 and 4x200 meter relay teams. John Glenn added an individual district crown of its own, with Kaid Ritchey racing to victory in the 400-meter dash with a time of 51.1.
Regional Qualifiers: Team-by-Team Breakdown
Here is complete list of area student-athletes moving on to regional competition this week, organized by their official OHSAA tournament division under the new five-division alignment:
The qualifying Bobcats will compete at the Division III Regional Championships at Muskingum University on Thursday, May 28, 2026 and Saturday, May 30, 2026.
Meadowbrook Colts (OHSAA Division 3)
Vincent Campbell − 3200-meter run (1st/9:36.10), 1600-meter run (2nd/4:23.13).
Jamarcus Berger − Long jump (1st/21'5").
Jahyden Black − 110-meter high hurdles (2nd/15.51).
Mason Kackley − Shot put (2nd/47'7"), Discus (2nd/142'8").
Opener KL Rahul top-scored for Capitals with 60 from 30 balls, setting a platform that helped his side move past 200 having been put into bat.
Ajinkya Rahane struck 63 from the top of the order in KKR's reply, but his dismissal started the first of two occasions where his side lost three wickets for one run.
Kuldeep Yadav (3-29) had the KKR captain and Rinku Singh caught from consecutive deliveries, then saw Tejasvi Dahiya dropped by wicketkeeper Abishek Porel from the hat-trick ball.
Axar Patel bowled Dahiya in the following over as the home side slipped from 128-3 to 129-6.
More misery was to follow for the hosts as Rovman Powell was run out from the first ball of the 17th over, Anukul Roy was caught and bowled by Mitchell Starc from the second and Kartik Tyagi was caught off the fourth.
Varun Chakravarthy was the last wicket to fall as Lungi Ngidi claimed figures of 3-27, with KKR seeing their final four wickets fall for nine runs as they lost inside 18.4 overs.
Capitals' victory is the last match of the regular season with the top four in the table moving into the play-offs, which start with Royal Challengers Bengaluru facing Gujarat Titans on 26 May.
Anfield said farewell to Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson with an emotional display of gratitude before, during and after Sunday's draw with Brentford.
Mosaics and flags were displayed pre-match, while their songs were sung consistently during the match by supporters in the stands.
The Liverpool squad also formed a guard of honour at full-time and Robertson and Salah were met by Reds royalty Sir Kenny Dalglish and Ian Rush at the end of the line.
The honours they have won during their magnificent Anfield careers were read out and they were joined by their families on the pitch.
Comolli: ‘Clear’ Juventus ideas, but ‘very sad’ about fans hospitalised after clashes
Juventus CEO Damien Comolli says he and Luciano Spalletti have ‘clear ideas’ on how to improve the team in 2026-27, but is ‘sad’ that some Bianconeri fans have been hospitalised after clashes before the Turin derby.
Juventus visit Torino on Sunday in the derby della Mole that ends the 2025-26 Serie A campaign.
“We are very worried, it’s very sad. I apologise, I get emotional when I talk about the fans,” Comolli told Sky Sport Italia.
“We are worried about what is going on. It’s very sad. We are worried because some of the fans have gone to the hospital, and I’ll surely go to see them later. I hope they recover soon. When I came here, I learned that some fans needed medical attention, so my mood immediately changed.”
Juventus ultras who have entered the stadium have told their players they don’t want the game to be played, but it’s expected the match will go ahead.
Juventus sit sixth in the standings with just 90 minutes remaining. Therefore, they need a win in today’s derby to qualify for the Champions League, but also hope that two between Roma, Como and Milan drop points today.
“First, we must win the game; it’s very important to the club, the fans, and the players. There isn’t a Plan A or B. There’s a unique plan: to build a winning team in the short-term future, whether we qualify for the Champions League or not,” Comolli said.
“Everyone has responsibility, but the biggest responsibility is mine, surely. It’s important to understand what didn’t work. It’s all clear for Luciano, it’s all clear for the club and me. The only thing to do now is to build a strong team with the coach, Luciano, and a clear idea of what we need.”
Where exactly do Juventus need to improve?
“Many things, because we are sixth. Today we want to win, but it might be enough for the Champions League,” Comolli said.
“There have been problems, but it’s important to analyse them internally with the club rather than talk today. As I said, for us, it’s very clear what we need to change.”
Chelsea miss out on Europe altogether after 2-1 defeat against Sunderland
Chelsea have ended a nightmare campaign in the worst possible way as defeat to Sunderland confirmed that the Blues will miss out on European football next season.
The Blues were already reeling from missing out on a top-five finish that could have sealed a place in the Champions League.
Having already settled for a Europa League slot, Chelsea only needed to avoid defeat at the Stadium of Light to confirm their place in Europe for next season.
However, Chelsea fell to a shocking 2-1 defeat that has helped Sunderland to secure European football for the first time since 1973.
Sunderland produced an energetic and confident performance in front of their home crowd.
Defender Trai Hume opened the scoring in the first half with an impressive volley that gave the hosts a deserved lead. Chelsea struggled to respond and looked short of ideas throughout much of the contest.
Things became even worse for the visitors shortly after the break when Malo Gusto accidentally turned the ball into his own net, doubling Sunderland’s advantage and increasing the pressure on Chelsea.
There was a brief moment of hope when Cole Palmer pulled a goal back for the Blues.
The England international has endured one of his most difficult campaigns in a Chelsea shirt this season, but there has been an uptick in his performances in recent weeks.
His 56th-minute strike against Sunderland was a sign of his late resurgence.
However, Chelsea’s hopes of a comeback quickly faded after defender Wesley Fofana was sent off just six minutes after Palmer pulled one back for the Blues.
Finishing the game with ten men means Chelsea couldn’t salvage a draw, meaning the Blues have now ended the season 10th on the log.
Attention will now turn to incoming manager Xabi Alonso, who faces the difficult task of rebuilding the squad and restoring Chelsea’s competitive edge.
While some may argue that a season without European football could allow the new manager plenty of time to rebuild the squad and imprint his tactical ideas, missing out on Europe is still a massive setback for a club of Chelsea’s stature.
It could also lead to an upheaval at the club, with a few key players heavily linked with a summer exit.
Jumping to the professional ranks is an adjustment for everyone, even if you’re fresh off of an All-American season. Former UCLA Bruin center Lauren Betts has found that out this spring as she’s adjusting to the WNBA in her rookie season with the Washington Mystics.
Betts’ college career couldn’t have ended any better, starring for the Bruins during the team’s NCAA title run. Betts’ overall scoring numbers went down in her senior season but the 6’7” Betts showed she can still carry an offense throughout the tournament.
Her reward was being taken fourth overall by the Mystics. Overall, Betts has had a quiet rookie season, putting up 5.5 points and 3.0 rebounds per game. Betts’ WNBA debut didn’t go as planned, scoring zero points but she caught up with former UCLA teammate Kiki Rice postgame who offered some words of wisdom.
“I was talking to Ki about that, I remember the first game I was so pissed. I don’t remember the last time I had zero points,” Betts said of the Bird’s Eye View podcast with Sue Bird. “She’s like ‘Some days you’re going to be the shit and other days you’re going to be a fire hydrant.’ I was like ‘You’re right. I am the fire hydrant today and that’s OK.’ and that’s just how it is your rookie year. I think the biggest thing is that you can’t compare your process to other people.”
“You can’t compare your process to other people because everyone is in different situations.” @laurenbetts12 gets real about adjusting to rookie life 🎙️
It’s tough for the six UCLA Bruins WNBA draft picks to not get compared to one another as they’re all beginning their professional journey shortly after a dominant season of college basketball.
"This is an exciting day for our organization and for baseball fans across Kentucky," Legends general manager Justin Ferrarella said, per the team announcement. "Nick Senzel is a player that fans know, respect, and immediately recognize from his Major League career and his time with the Reds. Bringing a player of Nick's caliber to Lexington is another example of the level of talent and entertainment we are committed to providing our fans at Legends Field."
Senzel signed in March 2025 with the Mexican League's Tecolotes De Los Dos Laredos.
"This is an exciting day for our organization and for baseball fans across Kentucky," Legends general manager Justin Ferrarella said, per the team announcement. "Nick Senzel is a player that fans know, respect, and immediately recognize from his Major League career and his time with the Reds. Bringing a player of Nick's caliber to Lexington is another example of the level of talent and entertainment we are committed to providing our fans at Legends Field."
Senzel signed in March 2025 with the Mexican League's Tecolotes De Los Dos Laredos.
San Antonio Spurs coach Mitch Johnson said he expects injured guards De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper to both play Sunday night in Game 4 of the Western Conference finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Frost Bank Center.
The Spurs trail the best-of-seven series 2-1 after Oklahoma City earned a 123-108 victory in Game 3 on Friday. San Antonio is hoping the return of both guards can help swing momentum back in its favor and prevent the Thunder from taking a commanding lead heading into Game 5.
Fox, a 2026 NBA All-Star, missed the first two games of the series because of a sprained right ankle suffered during the previous playoff round. He returned in Game 3 and finished with 15 points, seven rebounds and six assists in 31 minutes despite aggravating the injury during the second half. Johnson praised Fox’s toughness after the game, saying the veteran guard continues to fight through pain to remain on the floor for the Spurs.
Game 4 is a must win for the Spurs
During the regular season, Fox averaged 18.6 points per game for San Antonio and provided a steady scoring presence alongside franchise star Victor Wembanyama. He also averaged nearly seven assists after joining the Spurs, quickly becoming one of the team’s primary playmakers.
Harper, meanwhile, has emerged as one of the breakout rookies of the postseason. The 20-year-old guard scored 24 points, grabbed 11 rebounds and recorded six assists and seven steals in the Spurs’ Game 1 victory over Oklahoma City. He later suffered a hamstring and adductor issue during Game 2 but managed to play through discomfort in Game 3, contributing six points and valuable defensive minutes off the bench.
San Antonio will likely need stronger production from its backcourt to slow Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and even the series before it shifts back to Oklahoma City for Game 5.
Russ hasn't signed yet in part because he's considering working in a TV gig with CBS.
There are other factors at play, too.
The Jets don't want to overcrowd their quarterback depth chart in a way that stops them from seeing what Klubnik might be able to provide.
Klubnik was a top-tier recruit who went to Clemson and was great in 2024 before regressing a bit in 2025.
"Quarterback Geno Smith is the undisputed starter for 2026," ESPN's Rich Cimini wrote recently. "Beyond that, it's anybody's guess. There's no heir apparent on the roster. Perhaps that player will arrive via the 2027 draft. For now, Klubnik will get a chance to show he belongs."
So if Wilson came in, it would further prevent Klubnik from getting any chance to prove himself.
The Giants just did that last year with Russ and Jameis Winston on board, although Jaxson Dart broke through quickly anyway.
Keep an eye on Wilson, but nothing is a given when it comes to the Jets.
INDIANAPOLIS -- Winning at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway usually comes with a bottle of milk and a place in history.
For Curt Cignetti, it came with a lap around the Brickyard.
The no-nonsense Indiana football coach traded the sidelines for the driver’s seat Sunday, climbing into the 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X as this year’s honorary Indianapolis 500 pace car driver. And true to form, Cignetti approached the assignment the same way he approached Indiana’s run to its first national championship: by wanting to finish first.
“I like being No. 1,” Cignetti said. “I get to start in front and finish in front.”
Before Sunday’s “Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” Cignetti reached 177 mph during his final practice laps around the speedway, getting a feel for the massive oval under the guidance of Indy 500 veteran Sarah Fisher.
Fisher, who holds the record for most Indy 500 starts by a woman with nine, rode alongside Cignetti during Saturday’s preparation sessions, helping ease the football coach into one of racing’s most recognizable ceremonial roles.
For Cignetti, accepting the opportunity meant stepping away from the routine that helped build Indiana’s unbeaten 2025 season. He's turned down most public appearances after the championship run, but the Indy 500 was different.
Cignetti said the race’s deep roots and importance to the “fabric of the state” made the invitation impossible to pass up.
The honorary pace car role is one of the Indy 500’s most visible traditions. Cignetti led the 33-car field through ceremonial warmup laps and brought the field to the green flag before handing duties over to this year’s official pace car driver, Fisher, for caution periods.
Could they fit your team? Five veterans who could return in 2026 🇧🇷
The mid-year window is getting closer, and negotiations will soon HEAT UP behind the scenes. Whoever moves first, therefore, could gain a huge advantage.
In this scenario, OneFootball brings a list of FIVE veterans who are emerging as interesting options for Brazilian clubs from the second half of the year onward.
Would any of them fit your team? Check out the names below and leave your comment!
Douglas Santos, 32
Left-back Douglas Santos, 32, is under contract with Zenit until June 30, 2027 — which could be an obstacle.
Russian clubs, however, are barred from competing in continental tournaments (such as the Champions League).
As a result, if he stays at Zenit, Douglas Santos will continue playing only domestic competitions in Russia.
📸 OLGA MALTSEVA - AFP or licensors
Fabinho, 32
Fabinho is under contract with Al-Ittihad only until June 30. He was already on the radar of Fluminense and Palmeiras at the start of the year.
At the time, no agreement was reached. But now, with Fabinho becoming a free agent, Brazilian clubs may have a bit more ease.
Fabinho will be at the World Cup.
📸 Gualter Fatia - 2025 Gualter Fatia
Andrei Girotto, 34
Former Palmeiras player Andrei Girotto will be a free agent when his contract with Al-Taawoun expires at the end of June.
Andrei Girotto has been playing as a center-back, but he can also play as a defensive midfielder.
📸 JEAN-FRANCOIS MONIER - AFP or licensors
Rodinei, 34
Former Flamengo player Rodinei, a right-back, is under contract with Olympiacos until June 2027. In 2025/26, he played 37 matches, with five goals and five assists.
At the end of the year, Rodinei will be able to sign a pre-contract with another club. To avoid the risk of losing him, Olympiacos could negotiate the right-back's sale.
Athletico are interested in Rodinei.
📸 Alex Grimm - 2026 Getty Images
Fred, 33
Fred is under contract with Fenerbahçe until June 2027, but the midfielder is constantly the subject of inquiries from Brazilian clubs.
In 2025/26, Fred played 45 matches for Fener (25 as a starter and 20 coming off the bench), with four goals and five assists.
Arsenal celebrate with the Premier League trophy (Adrian Dennis)
Arsenal lifted the Premier League trophy after celebrating their first game as champions with a 2-1 win against Crystal Palace on Sunday.
Mikel Arteta's side clinched their first English title for 22 years on Tuesday when second-placed Manchester City drew at Bournemouth.
In action for the first time since the celebrations of their long-awaited triumph, the Gunners took the lead through Gabriel Jesus late in the first half at Selhurst Park.
Noni Madueke scored Arsenal's second goal after the interval to ensure the champions ended the league campaign with 26 wins from 38 games.
Since losing at City on April 19 in a game that appeared to have tilted the balance of power in their rivals' favour, Arsenal have reeled off five successive league victories to finish seven points above Pep Guardiola's team.
Once the match was over, the main event could take place as Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard got his hands on the trophy after medals were presented to Arteta and his squad.
Red confetti and fireworks exploded into the air as he hoisted the silverware, while Arsenal's stars sprayed champagne in front of thousands of Gunners fans in the Arthur Wait Stand.
Arteta was tossed into the air by his players, while Arsenal's United States-based owner Stan Kroenke and his son Josh had carried the trophy onto the pitch for the presentation ceremony.
Those ecstatic supporters kept the party going, singing songs of praise for the champions, waving inflatable replicas of the trophy and joining the players in a rendition of club anthem 'North London forever'.
Raising the trophy away from the Emirates Stadium couldn't detract from the glorious moment for Arteta and his players, who will display the silverware to many more of their adoring fans at a parade in north London on May 31.
Now Arteta's men will turn their attention to their bid to win the Champions League for the first time in the final against Paris Saint-Germain on May 30.
Winning the title was good enough but bringing home the Champions League as well would make this Arsenal's greatest season.
- Guard of honour -
Arteta made a host of changes ahead of the final in Budapest, leaving Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Gabriel Magalhaes, Eberechi Eze, David Raya and Viktor Gyokeres on the bench.
Arsenal forward Max Dowman became the youngest ever player to start a Premier League match at 16 years and 144 days, surpassing the previous record set by Jose Baxter, aged 16 years and 198 days old, in 2008.
Palace boss Oliver Glasner also rested several of his key players prior to Wednesday's UEFA Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano.
Arsenal were given a guard of honour by Palace's players when they emerged onto the pitch before responding to Arteta's demand that they play with "new standards" befitting their status as champions.
On a blazing hot afternoon in south London, Jesus hit the post in the fifth minute and shot straight at Palace keeper Dean Henderson from a good position soon afterwards.
Jesus broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute, converting the trickiest of his three chances.
Gabriel Martinelli slipped a deft pass towards Jesus and the striker drilled a low drive past Henderson at his near post.
Madueke bagged Arsenal's second goal in the 48th minute and fittingly it came from a corner.
Arsenal's set-piece prowess has been the calling card of their campaign and once again they crafted a perfect dead ball goal as Kai Havertz headed back to Madueke, who volleyed home from just inside the area.
Jean-Philippe Mateta reduced the deficit with an 89th minute header, but Arsenal's celebrations were all that mattered.
Rasmus Hojlund’s 12th league goal of the season secured a second-placed Serie A finish for Napoli as they edged past 10-man Udinese.
The on-loan Manchester United frontman applied an accomplished finish to Kevin de Bruyne’s delicious 24th-minute through-ball to fire Partenopei to a 1-0 win at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, in which Christian Kabasele was sent off, to ensure Antonio Conte’s men could not be caught by AC Milan.
In what speculation has suggested could be Conte’s last game in charge, Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye was called upon for the first time with less than two minutes played to palm away Alisson Santos’ shot.
However, it was opposite number Alex Meret who had to be at his best to keep out Jesper Karlstrom’s well-controlled 14th-minute strike.
Eljif Elmas fired over from distance and Hojlund stabbed a close-range effort at Okoye as the hosts responded, but the Denmark international needed no second invitation when he ran on to De Bruyne’s defence-splitting pass to give Napoli the lead.
Hojlund saw appeals for a penalty waved away after he went down under Kabasele’s challenge, and Arthur Atta tested Meret with a 35th-minute drive from a narrow angle.
A more combative Bianconeri emerged to dominate possession as the second half got under way, but their afternoon took a turn for the worse with 64 minutes gone when Kabasele was dismissed following a VAR review after kicking out at Hojlund.
Scott McTominay blazed wastefully over after running on to Hojlund’s pullback with 18 minutes remaining, but there was no way back for the visitors.
After all, we now know the entire 26-man squad that USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino selected for the World Cup. On Friday, early reports about players who were informed of their World Cup fates started hitting social media.
And then, The Guardian acquired the full roster on Saturday. The leaked squad was later confirmed by ESPN.
So while Fox is probably going to try to manufacture suspense about the roster unveiling, we can just go ahead and break down the surprises and snubs now.
The reported USMNT World Cup roster
Goalkeepers (3): Matt Freese, Chris Brady, Matt Turner
Defenders (10): Max Arfsten, Sergiño Dest, Alex Freeman, Mark McKenzie, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Antonee Robinson, Miles Robinson, Auston Trusty, Joe Scally
Midfielders (6): Tyler Adams, Sebastian Berhalter, Cristian Roldan, Weston McKennie, Gio Reyna, Malik Tillman
Forwards (7): Brenden Aaronson, Haji Wright, Folarin Balogun, Christian Pulisic, Ricardo Pepi, Tim Weah, Alejandro Zendejas
Surprise: Gio Reyna and Sebastian Berhalter are in
Gio Reyna was nearly sent home from the 2022 World Cup in Qatar due to his behavior after Gregg Berhalter informed him he'd have a limited role in the tournament. That eventually led to an entire scandal between the Berhalter and Reyna families. Berhalter was re-hired for this World Cup cycle but fired after an embarrassing showing in the Copa America in 2024.
But what should have been a huge four years for the ultra-talented Reyna, has been a major disappointment. He's battled injuries and has seen limited playing time with Borussia Mönchengladbach. Still, the skill is undeniable, and he does perform with the USMNT. So, it did make sense for Reyna to get the call.
In another twist, Gregg's son, Sebastian, also made the team. The Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder somewhat recently broke into the squad after a call-up in the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup — a secondary tournament these days.
His goal against Uruguay last year clearly left a lasting impression on Pochettino.
Pochettino is opting to play with fire in choosing to bring just four true midfielders to the World Cup. And many expected Tanner Tessmann to be safely among those chosen for the squad. The 24-year-old Lyon midfielder was shut down for the final few weeks of the Ligue 1 season with a muscle injury. But he was expected to be healthy in time for the World Cup. Yet, we have seen Pochettino leave players home due to fitness concerns in other international breaks.
Still, it's difficult to see how Tessmann was left off the roster if it wasn't an injury-related decision. Another injury to a midfielder, and the USMNT could be in a ton of trouble from a depth standpoint.
Diego Luna was also a surprising omission. He broke out during last year's Gold Cup and brought a kind of energy and tenacity that Pochettino theoretically should have wanted from his players. His inclusion seemed so likely that Luna had even been among the most prominent U.S. players in World Cup marketing. All that to not even make the team.
The world’s biggest tournament is almost here. Tap into something greater this @FIFAWorldCup 2026™ — What would you like the power to do?® pic.twitter.com/eQggXsPczi
We'll have to wait to hear what went into the decision to leave the Real Salt Lake forward home.
Not really a snub, but kind of? ... Yunus Musah
Anyone who has followed the USMNT since the 2022 World Cup knew that this news was coming for Musah. Once considered among the most promising players in the entire talent pool, the 23-year-old midfielder has seen his performances fall off a cliff. He struggled mightily with AC Milan and his loan to Atalanta hasn't gone much better.
Musah had a chance to earn his place back into Pochettino's good graces, but he opted to skip last summer's Gold Cup. Despite expressing his desire to play in the World Cup, turning down a call-up sealed his fate with Pochettino.
Sunderland head coach Regis le Bris, speaking to BBC Match Of The Day: "It's amazing. Outstanding. The stadium is crazy now and the fans deserve this. The planets aligned today but we needed to do the job and it was good management at the end. We were only focused on our game, not even at half-time.
"It's a massive collective achievement. What we showed last season and this was being together. We can be ambitious but we have to work hard. The fans are really important - they are a huge part of this club. It's a community and we are proud to represent them."
Did you know?
Sunderland won 54 Premier League points this season, the most by a newly promoted side since Leeds United in 2020-21 (59 points), while their seventh place finish is the best by a newly promoted team since Wolves in 2018-19 (seventh).
The Black Cats are one of just three sides that didn't lose a single Premier League game when scoring first in 2025-26 (P13 W8 D5), alongside Manchester United and Nottingham Forest.
Video: Napoli fans’ tribute for Conte as coach leaves
The Antonio Conte era at Napoli is over, and Partenopei fans honoured the Italian tactician after a 1-0 win over Udinese on Sunday.
Napoli fans paid tribute to Conte after the final game of the season on Sunday.
COMO, ITALY – MAY 02: SSC Napoli coach Antonio Conte looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Italian tactician is expected to confirm his exit during a post-match press conference today, but his departure from the Stadio Maradona after two years has already been confirmed by all Italian media outlets.
The whole stadium clapped Conte at full-time today with Partenopei supporters singing ‘Olé Olé Olé, Mister.’
NAPLES, ITALY – MAY 11: Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Bologna FC 1909 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on May 11, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Ultras also showed a banner that read: “You honoured the shirt at home and away, even when our help wasn’t there. Today, the coach and the team receive a deserved tribute.”
Napoli fans’ tribute for Conte
The Antonio Conte era at Napoli comes to an end 🇮🇹
Gallery: Fond farewells for Pep, Stones and Bernardo
View the best images as City emotionally bid farewell to Pep Guardiola, John Stones and Bernardo Silva.
The Blues’ final assignment of 2025/26 - a Premier League clash with Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium - represented the final time the Catalonian took charge of the Club.
It was to bring the curtain down on an illustrious era under Guardiola who led us to 20 major trophies since his arrival in the summer of 2016.
Bernardo and Stones - two of his most trusted lieutenants during that time - were also to call time on their City careers after the meeting with the Villans with a combined 754 appearances between them in sky blue.
On the pitch, Antoine Semenyo’s strike on the final day was overturned by an Ollie Watkins’ double as Unai Emery’s side prevailed 2-1.
Following the full-time whistle, though, supporters, staff and teammates alike came together to thank Guardiola, Stones and Bernardo for their wonderful contributions to City’s success across the past 10 years.
What’s more, there were special appearances from Ederson and Ilkay Gundogan who also said goodbye to the Etihad faithful.
View a selection of images from an emotional day at the Etihad Stadium via the gallery below...
BOLOGNA, ITALY – APRIL 25: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma looks on during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on April 25, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
The Giallorossi put themselves in a strong position with victory in the Derby della Capitale over rivals Lazio, also taking advantage of Juventus suffering a shock 2-0 home defeat to Fiorentina.
It means if they win here today, then it will guarantee qualification for the Champions League and a top four Serie A finish.
However, although Verona were relegated weeks ago, they have drawn three of their last four games, including against Juve and Inter.
Gasperini confident for Roma
PARMA, ITALY – MAY 10: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma, looks on pose for a team photograph prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and AS Roma at Stadio Ennio Tardini on May 10, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“There was excitement, but also calm, because we are aware that we’ve had a good season and winning the derby was also reassuring. Now there is the final step and it would be positive for everyone,” Gasperini told DAZN Italia.
“We’ll see how the game goes, but we always stay true to our characteristics. Verona are causing difficulties for every opponent despite their relegation, we know how tough this will be, but that just adds to our motivation.”
Wesley is suspended following his red card against Lazio, with Evan Ndicka, Bryan Zaragoza, Lorenzo Pellegrini and Evan Ferguson injured.
“We just need to get out there and play our game, because I feel the right concentration in the team,” concluded Gasperini.
Rider University pitcher PJ Craig delivered a legendary performance in the MAAC Tournament | Courtesy of Rider Athletics
WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. — For 38 minutes in between the last pitch of the bottom of the fourth, and the final out of the top of the fifth, everybody in Heritage Financial Park assumed that PJ Craig’s day was done.
Except for Craig, his team, and his coaches. The long layoff wasn’t due to a big inning from his Broncs that put the winner-take-all MAAC Championship Game far out of reach. Rider did put up two runs to extend its lead to 5-0, but that’s hardly comfortable, especially not after the Broncs gave up nine runs in an inning just a few hours earlier.
It took 15 minutes in the pouring rain for the grounds crew to refurbish home plate and the pitchers mound. Fairfield made two pitching changes in the inning as well, taking their time on each. But the Broncs’ starter was still locked in.
“(I was going to) keep throwing until I couldn’t throw anymore,” Craig, who pitched a complete game against Merrimack just two days prior in Rider’s first MAAC Tournament game, told Mid-Major Madness.
He ended up going three more innings, allowing just one more hit, and facing just one batter over the minimum. By the time he came out of the game, Rider’s staff only needed to get the final six outs. Four high-stakes games in three days is an impossible spot for a college pitching staff at the end of a long season, as most staffs aren’t built with a rotation or bullpen deep enough to handle it comfortably.
But Craig, a senior hoping for just one more opportunity to put on that jersey, covered 16 of those 36 innings by himself, and it led to a 6-1 win over Fairfield on Saturday, and a MAAC Championship for Rider.
After finishing each inning, Craig was greeted by his entire team outside the dugout. They surrounded him on both left and right as he walked back from the mound, giving him high-fives and words of encouragement.
In his seventh inning of work, he faced the top of Fairfield’s order for the third time. This was the Stags’ chance to get him. Zach Stephenson, sporting a nine-game hit streak, leading off, followed by MAAC Player of the Year Matt Bucciero, and then career .300 hitter JP Kuczik were. But they couldn’t string anything together.
Stephenson struck out, Bucciero’s was stranded at second with his double when the next two hitters flew out. This time, Craig’s work was done. Seven innings, two hits, six strikeouts, one walk.
“This might’ve been the best my fastball has been all year,” Craig said. “Fastball and the cutter was working, and I just wanted to stick with it, keep pumping strikes.”
“The only thing I could think of was just throwing the next pitch and executing the next pitch.”
There would be no repeat of the game from earlier in the day, which forced Craig into action. Had Rider held onto a 6-2 lead on Saturday morning, it would’ve won the MAAC Championship without Craig taking the mound in a winner-take-all game.
Six pitchers threw for the Broncs in that game. In the other three, only three covered all 27 innings. Craig, Kyle Batt, and Christian Aiello combined to allow just four runs over the three games, giving head coach Barry Davis what he needed to manage the tight-rope act that is a conference tournament.
Rider first grabbed the lead in the decider in the second inning on a Fairfield error, and then added to it with an RBI groundout, and an Erich Hartmann single. The three runs from that inning were all the Broncs would end up needing.
Craig allowed back-to-back homers in the top of the second inning on Thursday against Merrimack, but then went the next 14 frames without allowing a run with his college career in the balance.
“Knowing the guys have my back is the biggest part of it,” he said. “We’ve done this all year, and I was just trying to give this team a chance to win.”
He wouldn’t allow anything that wasn’t in front of him to enter his head.
“The adrenaline is pumping,” Craig said. “You don’t even think about that. The only thing I can think about is just throwing the next pitch.”
Craig said he took it one batter at a time.
And for that, he earned the right to wear the jersey one more time.
The Broncs will learn their NCAA Regional fate on Monday, and he’ll have until Friday before he may be called upon again in the opening game of the Tournament.
“(My arm) is a little numb right now,” Craig said. “The whole right side of my body is a little tired, but I’m feeling good. (The next few days will be) a lot of rest, a lot of rehab, just getting ready, seeing where we’re going.”
But for now, it’s euphoria.
“This is the best feeling you can have as a college baseball player,” he said.
They wouldn’t actually believe they’d done it until they actually got to hold it; to feel how heavy it was.
It had been weighing over them for so long, after all. This proved it was real. Every part of its 25.4kg testament to that, nothing left to waste.
That’s a bit like Arsenal themselves, given how much went into this arduous title win. Nothing was left on the training ground.
This Premier League season demanded everything from them.
If there has been some commentary on how the Premier League also needed a different winner to underline its vaunted competitiveness, that touches on one of the key themes of the campaign.
The 2025-26 season has been one which rewarded efficiency and punished waste, much more so than any other in recent years.
The point is emphasised right through the division, going down to the very bottom.
They have risen because their sophisticated recruitment has maximised resources, taking advantage of the complacency of those wealthier.
One of them, of course, was West Ham United.
West Ham were relegated with 39 points and went down despite beating Leeds on the final day (Reuters)
Going by the last Deloitte Football Money League, the Championship’s newest entrants are also the 20th richest club in the world.
Only eight Premier League clubs are wealthier, and none of them - naturally - are the new middle class.
West Ham instead as the new grand example of football’s historic propensity for waste only just ahead - or perhaps below - Tottenham Hotspur.
This is a consequence of years of both bad management also squandering every single advantage.
The strangely open spaces of their tax payers’ stadium reflect the chasm between what has been earned and what has actually been achieved.
It is all the worse when you look at the bookend that is their last promotion.
West Ham came up in 2012, which was when the Premier League was in final negotiations for the £5bn international broadcast deal that changed everything.
There was now more money than clubs knew what to do with.
Now, in 2026, the Premier League demands that you have a very strong idea of what you do with it.
Roberto De Zerbi rescued Tottenham from the unthinkable: relegation from the Premier League (Reuters)
It’s also plays into something of an irony to the Premier League in 2026.
It’s got so much money, to produce… this: set-pieces, wrestling in the box, and much more laboured football than we saw in the season’s great counterpoint: Paris Saint-Germain-Bayern Munich.
As fashionable as it has been to dismiss this as some kind of English reductiveness, it is the opposite. Thirteen of the managers are from continental Europe, after all, all bolstered by the legions of expensive coaching staff.
This evolution, or devolution, really comes from so much money ensuring these coaches have to think about this even more.
That’s not just about the cost of success or failure, either. It’s because, with an expanded European calendar, it has made the Premier League so rich in all kinds of talent. It’s not like 20, or even five years ago. Every week, coaches are coming up against the most complex pressing and tactical plans.
The effect of this can be seen in one stat. There were only eight wins by four goals or more, a historic low.
More games were in the balance for longer, as Arsenal know all too well.
After three runners-up finishes, Arteta banished Arsenal ‘doubts’ to make the Gunners champions again (Reuters)
One reason that Arteta’s staff actually tilted towards set-pieces away from the aggression of 2022-23, in fact, was because they were increasingly facing more massed defences. That brought more set-pieces, that invited specialism.
Hence we’re seeing so much more of that, as well as the wrestling in the box that only brings increased use of VAR.
It is the Premier League sapping everything out of its teams.
Set-pieces are just the ultimate manifestation of this. Why leave such a potential advantage unexplored?
It could be argued this might have the adverse effect of making the Premier League less appealing, but the very competitiveness also keeps it so compelling
The 2025-26 campaign might not have the richest football, but it was abundant in storylines, maybe more than ever before.
Pep Guardiola, defeated in a title race, waves goodbye to Man City after 10 incredible years (AP)
Nottingham Forest had four managers.
It’s incredible to think that Ruben Amorim’s tactics board, Rio Ngumoha’s goal to win the Alexander Isak derby and Graham Potter’s stint at West Ham were all this season.
By the end, even the debacle of Liam Rosenior’s brief tenure at Chelsea was overtaken by stories of more historic dimensions, like the departures of greats such as Mohamed Salah and Pep Guardiola.
And still no outcome to the Manchester City case. The club insist on their innocence.
Amid such headlines, it can be easy to forget Keith Andrews’ impact at Brentford or Daniel Farke’s impressive adaptability to keep Leeds United up.
One of England’s great soap operas might be concluding, though, as Manchester United have restored a seriousness. Michael Carrick perpetuated the theme of the season by showing Amorim the value of using players efficiently - putting them in their right positions.
Liverpool, amid other tests, found that huge signings in a season like this were a massive risk rather than any kind of guarantee.
Mohamed Salah departs Liverpool to leave Anfield with an uncertain future (Reuters)
If Arne Slot will continue to face scrutiny, Spurs should still feel the most embarrassment. They should never have even come close to relegation.
West Ham now take the mantle of the worse relegation ever, if only because of the worth. The club have taken in billions since their last promotion, and this is the result of it: a shambolic and furious relegation.
It was still one game from being Tottenham, and that game might have been the controversial win at Aston Villa.
They had to go to a Hail Mary of paying a respected manager in Roberto De Zerbi a reported £16m. There is perhaps another lesson there, given the success of coaches like Arteta and Unai Emery.
If best practice in football is still to bring in head coaches under a sporting director, there is a strong argument that you can properly maximise everything you’ve got after that if the coach proves he can be a manager and you empower them.
Everyone will now be looking to Arsenal in that regard, even if so many claim they don’t enjoy looking at their football.
Arteta’s side have been the model of efficiency. It has been the crucial quality, in a campaign that has punished waste.
Iran’s build-up to the 2026 World Cup has been shaped by political tensions involving Israel and the United States, with their place in the tournament becoming a wider debate.
Last month, FIFA president Gianni Infantino stepped in to confirm that Iran would remain part of the competition, despite questions around security, visas and diplomacy remaining.
With all three of Iran’s Group G fixtures taking place inside the US, the location of their training base quickly became a focal point, and it has now undergone a major shift.
Iran’s switch from Arizona to Tijuana should ease more than visa concerns
Photo by Wu Zhizhao/VCG via Getty Images
FIFA has approved Iran’s request to relocate their training camp from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico.
The move was motivated partly by worries over potential visa and travel issues for players, staff and support personnel entering the US.
But there are soccer reasons as well. Iran’s first two group games, against New Zealand on 15 June and Belgium on 21 June, are both at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.
Tijuana, just across the border from California, offers much easier access to those matches than Arizona would have done.
Iran’s final group match is against Egypt at Lumen Field in Seattle on 26 June, which will still require a longer trip.
Even so, the switch should reduce travel strain across the opening phase, particularly before two key matches in California.
For a team already under political scrutiny, the move gives Iran one clear advantage: a base camp built around control, convenience and fewer avoidable complications.
Roberto De Zerbi celebrates after Tottenham beat Everton 1-0 to ensure Premier League survival (Ben STANSALL)
Roberto De Zerbi said Tottenham must invest to build a "top, top team" next season after narrowly avoiding a first relegation from the Premier League for nearly half a century.
Spurs came into the final day of the season two points ahead of West Ham with a significantly better goal difference, meaning a draw would realistically be enough to secure their survival.
Joao Palhinha scored the only goal of the game in London as Tottenham beat Everton 1-0, rendering West Ham's 3-0 win at home to Leeds irrelevant.
De Zerbi was appointed in late March -- the club's third head coach of the season -- with a brief to keep them in the English top flight.
"We worked well but I'm lucky because we have a lot of big players," the relieved Italian told Sky Sports.
"You can see the game today and see that under big pressure they played fantastic with the ball. Maybe it was the best performance in my time here.
"It was an incredible game. The football was nice because if you give your best then the results will come."
De Zerbi said Tottenham already had a strong squad but needed to invest in top-quality players.
"Next season we have to build a top, top, top team," he said. "We don't have to change too many players in our squad but we have to bring in some first-level players."
With billionaire owner Stan Kroenke watching on, Arsenal’s players finally got their hands on the Premier League trophy as they lifted the biggest prize in English soccer to the backdrop of tickertape and fireworks on Sunday.
Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard looked up to the sky and back down at the trophy, shaking his head in disbelief, before walking in front of his celebrating teammates and lifting it aloft inside Selhurst Park after a campaign-ending 2-1 win at Crystal Palace.
Kroenke made his way to London for the trophy lift and watched the game against Palace next to his son, Josh. About an hour after the game finished, they walked out onto the field with the trophy ahead of the ceremony.
It marked the latest success in Kroenke’s sporting empire. The Denver Nuggets won the NBA Championship in 2023, a year after the LA Rams won the Super Bowl and Colorado Avalanche won the Stanley Cup in NHL. All three of those teams are in the Kroenke Sports & Entertainment portfolio that also now includes the best soccer team in England.
For Sunday's big occasion, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and his players wore the team’s classic red-and-white jersey with “Champions 2026” on the back.
The season could get even better for Arsenal, which also has reached the Champions League final for the first time since 2006. Paris Saint-Germain will be the opponent in Budapest, Hungary, next Saturday.
Tonight's clash between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the San Antonio Spurs gives us a real chance at a nice pay day. If you want to get in on the action, new customers can take advantage of a lucrative welcome offer by signing up here with the Novig promo code TSNEWS50.
Just make a simple $5 purchase within the platform, and you will receive $50 in Novig coins to use for your upcoming predictions. I love the flexibility here—we can use this bonus for today's NBA matchup, or apply it toward any NBA, NHL playoffs, or MLB games this week.
Novig Promo Code TSNEWS for NBA Prediction Markets
Novig Promo Code
TSNEWS50
New User Offer
Spend $5, Get $50 in Novig Coins
Terms and Conditions
21+ and Present in Participating States
Date Last Verified
May 24, 2026
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Trading Markets for Game 4
If you are looking to place a wager on tonight’s playoff matchup, we've got some great numbers on the morning line. Let's break down the latest consensus odds for the Oklahoma City Thunder at the San Antonio Spurs:
Team
Moneyline
Spread
Total (O/U)
San Antonio Spurs
-123
-1.5 (-113)
Over 219.5 (-107)
Oklahoma City Thunder
+104
+1.5 (-107)
Under 219.5 (-113)
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Oklahoma City Thunder +1.5 (-107): I'm a big fan of this spot. The Thunder have been highly profitable here, going 4-1 against the spread as an underdog over their last five games. Plus, Oklahoma City is an impressive 9-1 overall in their last ten. They bring a formidable Net Rate of 14.3 into the contest, making them a very live underdog with a real chance to outright win.
Over 219.5 (-107): Recent history points toward a high-scoring affair, and I'm placing this bet expecting plenty of buckets. The over has hit in each of the last four games between the Spurs and the Thunder. Both squads are also cleaning up on the glass, which means extra possessions; San Antonio secures 53.1% of available rebounds, while Oklahoma City grabs 50.1%.
San Antonio Spurs Moneyline (-123): If you prefer backing the home favorite, San Antonio has been an absolute wagon on their own court. The Spurs are 15-5 at home over their last 20 games and 23-7 across their last 30 overall. With a strong Net Rate of 11.7, they have the metrics to justify laying the juice.
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INDIANAPOLIS -- Alexander Rossi got help being lifted out of his car and over the wall in pit lane, hopping on his left foot, after his car caught fire and was smoking during the 93rd lap.
The car stopped at Kyle Kirkwood's pit box, and Kirkwood's Andretti Global pit crew was the one to help him out of the car.
He was seen sitting in Kirkwood's pit box. He was cheered by fans as he received his crutches and walked back down pit lane.
IndyCar veteran and 2016 Indy 500 champion, Rossi has been seen on crutches a number of times since he was part of a multi-car crash during Monday's practice session at IMS. He broke a bone in his right ankle in the crash.
INDIANAPOLIS -- Alexander Rossi got help being lifted out of his car and over the wall in pit lane, hopping on his left foot, after his car caught fire and was smoking during the 93rd lap.
The car stopped at Kyle Kirkwood's pit box, and Kirkwood's Andretti Global pit crew was the one to help him out of the car.
He was seen sitting in Kirkwood's pit box. He was cheered by fans as he received his crutches and walked back down pit lane.
IndyCar veteran and 2016 Indy 500 champion, Rossi has been seen on crutches a number of times since he was part of a multi-car crash during Monday's practice session at IMS. He broke a bone in his right ankle in the crash.
Raducanu had played just one match on clay this season before the French Open [Getty Images]
Emma Raducanu's French Open campaign came to an early end as she suffered a frustrating first-round defeat by Argentina's Solana Sierra.
After failing to win a single game in a dismal first set that only lasted 25 minutes, the British number one fought back from a double-break down in the second to force a tie-break.
However, she could not see through the turnaround as world number 68 Sierra regrouped to win 6-0 7-6 (7-4).
Raducanu's 2026 season has been disrupted by a post-viral illness that kept her off the WTA Tour for more than two months following Indian Wells in March.
Her build-up to the French Open had been far from ideal, with a first-round defeat at the Strasbourg Open earlier this week her only match on clay - and Raducanu's unfamiliarity with the red dirt was evident from the offset.
Sierra, who grew up playing on clay, broke Raducanu's serve in the opening game, and things went downhill from there for the Briton.
Raducanu hit 15 unforced errors to zero winners as Sierra broke twice more on her way to a first-set 'bagel'.
A downcast Raducanu took time off court before returning for the second set, and while she managed to get a game on the board early on, it remained plain sailing for Sierra, who put away a series of booming forehand winners to storm to a 4-1 lead.
A break back gave Raducanu a glimmer of hope and belief started to creep in when she levelled the set at 5-5 with Sierra serving for the match.
Sierra broke back immediately but once again failed to serve out the win as a resurgent Raducanu forced a tie-break.
However, after clawing her way back to 5-4 from 5-1 down in the tie-break, Raducanu's resistance let up and Sierra secured victory after an hour and 45 minutes.
Raducanu has been blighted by illness and injuries in recent years and has only gone beyond the third round of a major once since her US Open win in 2021.
Her focus will now turn to the British grass-court season as she continues to work with coach Andrew Richardson, who helped guide her to the Flushing Meadows title as a teenage qualifier and was re-hired by Raducanu earlier this month.
Sierra will face either Italian 13th seed Jasmine Paolini or Dayana Yastremska of Ukraine in the second round.
Despite failing to replicate the success of her 2021 US Open run, Raducanu has - for the most part - been able to navigate the opening rounds at majors.
This is the first time she has lost in the first round at Roland Garros and is just her third first-round exit at a Grand Slam overall.
Playing in baking hot conditions, Raducanu looked laboured as she planted balls into the net and struggled to keep up with Sierra's powerful baseline game.
She showed little emotion as the Argentine condemned her to a 6-0 scoreline in the opening set, and rather than voicing her frustration, she coughed in between points.
Even when she found some rhythm in the second set, Raducanu - who has previously let out a roar after winning a crucial point - kept her celebrations to a minimum.
There was little Richardson could say to inspire a comeback, with Raducanu committing 42 unforced errors throughout the match, and she made a hasty retreat off court after Sierra secured victory.
Northwestern Lacrosse (18-3, 7-1 B1G) defeated the University of North Carolina (19-1, 10-0 ACC 14-11, using a 5-0 fourth quarter, clutch plays and players rising up to the ocassion to win its first national championship since 2023. The ‘Cats became the first team to win a title on its home turf since Maryland did it in 1986.
Under partly cloudy skies that dried up the pregame rain, over 8,000 fans filled nearly every seat in the lakefront stadium, turning out in historic numbers. Both teams clearly fed off the raucous crowd with a contentious and physical battle on the field.
Gabrielle McCollester was the MVP of this game, shattering her career-high with four goals. Aditi Foster and Taylor Lapointe each had hat tricks, while Madison Taylor had a game-high six assists. Abby LoCascio also netted two scores. Jenika Cuocco was resilient in goal, earning 11 saves and shutting out a tough UNC offense in the fourth quarter. NU forced 19 turnovers from UNC and were 22-of-25 on clears.
Northwestern got off to a hot start, with Madison Smith winning the draw for the ‘Cats. Mckenzie Brown powered down the field, and Northwestern held possession in the UNC fan for just under a minute before Lapointe triumphantly converted a cross-body shot past UNC’s Betty Nelson for the game’s first score.
Right off the second draw, Taylor fought through to take control of the draw. Northwestern continued to put pressure on the Tar Heels with another extended period in the fan, and Lapointe doubled the ‘Cats’ lead just two minutes into the game, knocking down a Tar Heel defender and powering her way through the 8-meter arc.
It felt as though the Wildcats could not lose momentum in the opening five minutes. After Northwestern won its third draw of the game, Maddie Epke found Kate Ratanaproeksa, but she could not convert on her shot. UNC regained control of the ball, but was stopped just a few yards into its attacking half after Jaylen Rosga cleaned up a ground ball.
The Tar Heels’ zone defense seemed to fail itself over and over again. Foster ducked between gaps left by UNC and fired past Nelson to make the score 3-0 with 11:32 to go in the first quarter. Having little to say, North Carolina called a timeout.
Out of the break, the Tar Heels won their first draw control of the game. Mary Carroll quickly put a stop to any offensive ambition UNC had, however, as she checked the ball out of Kaleigh Harden’s hand and allowed Cuocco to keep the ball in Northwestern’s possession.
UNC’s first two promising shots came from Eliza Osburn and Chloe Humphrey, who fired just wide of the net. Though Rosga won the ball back for the ‘Cats, a coach’s challenge from UNC put Lucy Munro in the penalty box and allowed UNC to take back its offensive momentum.
Humphrey capitalized on the man-down opportunity, receiving the ball just outside of the fan and running through Northwestern’s defense to get on the board and make it a 3-1 Northwestern lead.
The Heels continued to put pressure on NU, but the ‘Cats didn’t budge with their marking even as the Tar Heels fired three shots in the span of 34 seconds. A dangerous shot from Addison Pattillo almost got UNC back on the board, but Cuocco did well to interfere with her stick.
Just seconds later, a great screen from Taylor allowed Foster on the right side of the UNC net to find Abby LoCascio, who released quickly to make Northwestern’s lead 4-1 with 6:14 to go.
Munro then went down with a non-contact injury to her left leg and had to be escorted off the field. The play after, Osburn beat a Northwestern defender and streaked through the 8-meter arc to slam one past Cuocco. Osburn scored in an identical fashion 40 seconds later, leaving Northwestern with just a one-goal lead with 3:20 left in the first quarter.
The back half of the first quarter saw Northwestern become a little flustered. At times, the ‘Cats seemed to struggle maintaining their poised zone system, and Cuocco had to clean up their messes with an incredible foot save. Northwestern finished the first 15 up 4-3, though it felt like it had lived 1,000 lives in the process.
Kaleigh Harden’s massive check to Noel Cumberland in the North Carolina box started the second quarter off as a shock to Northwestern, and Cuocco had to make a quick save against Humphrey. Northwestern then surged into the UNC fan, and Ratanaproeksa won a free position for the ‘Cats. Her shot to the lower right corner, however, was unable to sneak past Nelson.
Northwestern’s defense powered back to life thanks to a forced turnover by Ratanaproeksa with 11:41 to go in the second. Foster injected more life into the ‘Cats with an impressive run behind the Tar Heels’ net as she slung an underhanded shot past Nelson, making the game 5-3.
Cuocco continued to provide a major boost to the ‘Cats as she got her fifth save on the day off a shot from Kiley Mottice. Northwestern kept its defense tight on the Tar Heels, but that wasn’t enough to stop Darcy Felter from scoring a no-look behind-the-back shot through traffic. With 8:42 remaining in the first half, the ‘Cats maintained a tight 5-4 lead.
Osburn kept up the Tar Heels’ defensive pressure and picked a ball off Rosga to keep the ball in Northwestern’s defensive end. The ball made its way to Chloe Humphrey, who found Addison Pattillo. Pattillo was able to feint her way through the fan and fire a close-range shot at Cuocco, tying the game 5-5 with 6:50 to go.
One minute later, Taylor snagged her second assist of the game as she found an unmarked Locascio coming behind the right post. With that pass, Taylor broke the career points record in the NCAA tournament.
Though Northwestern did its best to keep its defensive restrained, a foul on Addison Pattillo allowed her to score off a free position, again leveling the game at 6-6.
A subsequent linkup between Epke, Lapointe and Taylor almost got Taylor her first goal of the game, but her shot clinked off the left post. Epke tried to convert inside the fan just a minute later, but Nelson made a confident stop.
The ‘Cats’ turnover woes began to catch up to them as the first half came to a close, and a nervy 2-on-1 Tar Heel play on the attack saw Northwestern on the defensive. Fortunately for the Wildcats, a Cuocco save and block allowed the game to remain level at 6-6 at halftime.
After two quarters, Northwestern and UNC were head-to-head on draw controls (the ‘Cats had six to the Tar Heels’ seven), and each had seven turnovers. The ‘Cats tallied just 16 shots to UNC’s 21. Cuocco made seven saves to Nelson’s four.
Bursting into the third quarter, North Carolina won its eighth draw of the game. A physical sequence of plays allowed Northwestern to regain possession of the ball off a Pattillo foul, but the ball ended up back in Tar Heel hands. Eva Ingrilli bounded around the net and tucked one under Cuocco, letting UNC get its first lead of the game at 7-6.
In an instantaneous turnaround from the ‘Cats, Taylor heaved a ball to McCollester just outside of the crease, who rapidly fired past now Lexi Zenk to tie the game 7-7. But Pattillo responded just a minute later, getting a hat-trick and putting the Tar Heels at the advantage once again.
A series of contentious foul calls, which left head coach Kelly Amonte Hiller visibly frustrated, led to UNC’s ninth goal of the game off a free position. Northwestern’s tight marking in the 8-meter arc began to taper off, and Caroline Godine exploited space left by the ‘Cats by finding Reese King to push UNC’s lead to three. The call, however, was overturned due to a crease violation by King, leaving the score as 9-7 Northwestern.
Epke then capitalized on the overturned call, leaving a UNC defender in the dust to fire a shot that trickled into the bottom-right corner of the net past Zenk. The game, which a few minutes before, seemed to be out of Northwestern’s hands, then had the ‘Cats down just 9-8.
With 6:36 to go, Northwestern let Eva Ingilli slip outside the crease completely unmarked. Ingilli then received a quick pass from Godine and easily put it in the back of the net, increasing UNC’s lead to 10-8.
A silky smooth linkup between a behind-the-net Taylor, a top-of the 8-meter-arc-Epke and an unmarked McCollester outside the crease allowed McCollester to score her second of the game.
Cuocco made a jaw-dropping save on a point-blank shot from Felter minutes later, keeping the ‘Cats alive for what felt like the millionth time. But Kate Levy and Humphrey got the better of Cuocco with 2:24 to go in the third quarter, maintaining UNC’s lead at 11-9, which held through the quarter’s close.
Lapointe opened the fourth quarter for Northwestern with a last-second goal against the winding shot clock. Even as the ball tipped back and forth between halves and physicality ramped up between squads, Northwestern maintained possession
For her third goal of the game, McCollester made an incredible solo run through the fan to absolutely slam one past Zenk. Her goal was the ninth of her career, meaning that at that point, a third of her career goals had come from this NCAA National Championship. She tied the game at 11-11.
The ‘Cats clawed their way back out of their third-quarter deficit thanks to Foster, who ran to the crease and beat out three UNC defenders to put Northwestern up 12-11. The lead was Northwestern’s first since halfway through the second quarter.
Out of the media timeout, Charlotte Corkins won the draw for the Tar Heels, which set UNC up for a game-tying goal from Godine. Amonte Hiller then challenged the goal, and after three minutes of review, the call was overturned. With 6:37 to go, the ‘Cats maintained their 12-11 lead.
For her sixth assist on the day, Taylor found McCollester standing completely unmarked outside the crease, increasing Northwestern’s lead 13-11 with 6:03 to go in the fourth. Northwestern then ran the clock down on UNC’s attack the next play, forcing the Tar Heels to release a last-second shot that went straight to Cuocco. The ‘Cats found themselves caught in a similar bind on the attack the next play, but Amonte Hiler called a Northwestern timeout.
Out of the break, the Tar Heels ramped up their tempo on the attack, forcing Northwestern to make quick marking decisions. The ‘Cats handled it with grace, and they eventually got the ball up to Taylor, who held her position before streaking into the fan and grabbing her first goal of the game, pushing Northwestern up 14-11 with 1:18 to go in the game.
It was at this point that Amonte Hiller, who usually doesn’t jump to conclusions, put her hands on her head. The players followed suit. Surely, and totally, Northwestern had won the national championship on its home turf, in a fashion a master screenplay writer couldn’t have done a better job of creating.
Manchester City Identify This Chelsea Midfielder As A Target: What Will He Bring To The Etihad?
In a recent post on X, journalist Florian Plettenberg stated that Manchester City have identified Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez as a target. It has been claimed that the Mancunian giants are eyeing a move to secure the services of the Argentine talent this off-season.
Fernandez’s Excellent Numbers In English Football
Fernandez has enjoyed a decent run of form at the West London club during this campaign as he has put in a series of impressive displays for them at the centre of the park. The 25-year-old has scored 15 times and earned seven assists in 53 matches for Chelsea this season across all competitions.
The Argentine sensation is currently one of the best central midfielders in the Premier League. Hence, it is no wonder that Man City are showing interest in recruiting Fernandez in this summer transfer window.
His current contract at Stamford Bridge will run out in the summer of 2032, which could make it difficult for the Mancunian giants to sign him on the cheap later this year.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – MAY 09: Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea reacts during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Chelsea at Anfield on May 09, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
What Will Fernandez Bring To Manchester City?
Fernandez loves a tackle and can time his challenges well to earn the ball back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind clearing the danger when required and can shoot the ball with power from long range.
The Argentine sensation has got the vision to create some decent chances in the final third and is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet. Fernandez mainly operates as a box-to-box midfielder, but can also play as a defensive midfielder or an attacking midfielder if told to do so. He already knows the Premier League well and won’t take much time to adjust to life at the Mancunian club.
We can expect Fernandez to bring more quality to Man City‘s midfield department. He has what it takes to nail down a regular first-team spot at the Etihad Stadium in the coming seasons.
At 25, Fernandez has his best years ahead of him, which makes him a decent choice for the Mancunian outfit to pursue at the end of this campaign. He might even help Man City compete for some major trophies in the future. All in all, the Premier League giants would be wise to get a deal done for him this off-season.
‘We let the fans down’ – McFarlane after Chelsea let Europe slip on the final day
Calum McFarlane says Chelsea have let the fans down following their 2-1 defeat to Sunderland on the final day, which means they will have no European football next season.
“The feeling in the dressing room is obviously disappointment,” interim head coach Calum McFarlane said after the game. “We wanted to make the best of a bad situation.”
Chelsea’s defeat to Sunderland drew the curtain on a disappointing campaign for the west London club, a season in which the Blues lost as many games as they managed to win.
When asked to sum up the season, McFarlane said: “Disappointing. We should be in the Champions League with the talent we have.
“This group has shown that when they’re at their best they’re a match for anyone across Europe,” he added.
McFarlane is in his second spell as interim head coach, and is the third man at the helm for the Blues this season following Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior’s respective dismissals. He is expected to join incoming head coach Xabi Alonso’s first-team coaching staff next year.
“I’m looking forward to it, of course,” McFarlane said when asked about Alonso’s arrival and his new role. “Xabi is a top coach and I’ve enjoyed working with this group.”
Wesley Fofana was given his marching orders in the 61st minute of the chaotic game against Sunderland, the 11th red card Chelsea have been shown this season.
On discipline issues, McFarlane said “It’s definitely an issue and a problem. Arsenal didn’t have one red card and they won the league.
“It’s something we need to look at and improve.”
When asked if his players gave it their all this season, McFarlane replied: “I don’t think it’s fair for me to comment on the whole season, but I have no qualms or desire to question their mentality.
“They gave us everything every single day. They can compete with anyone,” McFarlane said of his group. “We’re as disappointed as the fans. They’ve been brilliant this year. We’ve let them down.”
Tare: ‘Convinced Modric will stay at Milan, we are paid to get results’
Milan director of sport Igli Tare insists Luka Modric ‘will say yes’ to a new season at San Siro, but his own future is up in the air. ‘We are paid to get results.’
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).
The Rossoneri had struggled recently, but last week’s 2-1 win away to Genoa and Juventus crumbling at home to Fiorentina mean that a victory here would guarantee qualification for the Champions League.
Tare and Milan keep focused
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Igli Tare of AC Milan looks on prior to the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
“We tried to close ourselves off to all these rumours, because this is a fundamental match and it must take us to the target we set at the start of the season, so we can celebrate together with our fans,” Tare told DAZN Italia.
Although Rafael Leao, Alexis Saelemaekers and Pervis Estupinan are all back from suspension, only the Belgian is chosen to start, with Leao and Christian Pulisic benched in favour of Santiago Gimenez and Christopher Nkunku.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Luka Modric of AC Milan is assisted off by medical staff after going down injured during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Modric is on the bench this evening after surgery for a facial fracture, but has not yet decided whether to stay on with the Rossoneri or go elsewhere.
“I think ultimately he will remain, as he is a Milanista, he is very fond of everyone here and the fans, so I am convinced he will say yes.”
There was a summit this afternoon between patron Gerry Cardinale, RedBird advisors Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Massimo Calvelli, plus chief scout Geoffrey Moncada.
However, director of sport Igli Tare and CEO Giorgio Furlani were notably absent.
VERONA, ITALY – APRIL 19: Igli Tare, Sporting Director of AC Milan looks on prior to the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and AC Milan at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on April 19, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
There were protests outside the stadium before kick-off, including a huge banner reading: ‘Furlani out, Ibra, Moncada and Scaroni follow him quickly!’
Does Tare think tonight’s result will decide his future as well?
“I don’t know. We are paid to get results, as Max said yesterday, the important thing is to focus together on this target. From tomorrow, we can play for the future.”
Gasperini before Verona kick-off: “We need one last step.”
The match between Hellas Verona and Roma, the thirty-eighth and final matchday of Serie A, kicks off at 8:45 PM at the Bentegodi Stadium.
Shortly before kickoff, Gian Piero Gasperini spoke to reporters. Here are the words of the Giallorossi coach.
“What I saw from the players this week? Peace of mind, as they know they’ve come a long way. Winning the derby was a great satisfaction. Today is the final step toward achieving a goal that would be positive for everyone.”
“Let’s see how the match unfolds. We’ll try to maintain our strengths, which have led us to fourth place with 90 minutes remaining in the league. We’ll have to be good because Verona is making things difficult for all the other teams and has achieved excellent results. We know the difficulties of the match, but also our motivations.”
“We need to play and take control of the game. We have the right concentration.”
MIAMI GARDENS, FL - JANUARY 19: Perry the Pylon, the College Football Playoff mascot, during the Indiana Hoosiers versus the Miami Hurricanes College Football Playoff National Championship Game Presented by AT&T on January 19, 2026, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL. (Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The Athletic’s Stewart Mandel has taken a stand on Fox’s initial movement in pushing for a College Football Expansion that would bring the future playing field to 24 programs from its current 12-team format. However, despite the obvious push by Fox (the Big Ten) and the countering pushback by ESPN (the SEC, which includes Texas football), Mandel asks, who would pay for expansion?
From The Athletic:
“For all the public shows of support, media consultants for the CFP only recently began modeling TV projections. It’s no mystery why the ACC’s coaches and athletic directors support expansion (more berths for their own schools), but industry sources were surprised that commissioner Jim Phillips went public while also putting this statement out there: “ESPN made it clear that it wants it to stay at 12 or 14, but no more than 16.”
Texas Longhorns infielder Viviana Martinez (23) celebrates a score by designated player Victoria Hunter (12) during the NCAA Softball Championship Super Regional against Arizona State at Red & Charline McCombs Field on Saturday, May 23, 2026 in Austin. (Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-Statesman)
Texas softball pulled out a dramatic 4-3 win over Arizona State in Game 2 of the Austin Super Regional against Arizona State at McCombs Field on Saturday in order to keep its dreams of a second straight national championship alive.
Now, the No. 6 Longhorns (46-11) and No. 19 Arizona State (45-17) meet in a third and decisive game Sunday in order to determine a spot in next week’s Women’s College World Series.
Read below for live scores and updates Saturday as the Texas Longhorns face Arizona State Sun Devils in Game 3 of the Austin Super Regional of the NCAA Tournament.
Texas Longhorns infielder Katie Stewart (20) celebrates a hit for a double during the NCAA Softball Championship Super Regional against Arizona State at Red & Charline McCombs Field on Saturday, May 23, 2026 in Austin. (Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-Statesman)
🔴 Milan v Cagliari | Tare: Modric? He cares, I think he'll stay
Milan arrive at San Siro with one objective only: to win. Tonight’s match against Cagliari is do-or-die for the Rossoneri, who in these 90 minutes are fighting for a place in next season’s Champions League. And they will do so under the watchful eyes of RedBird’s top man, Gerry Cardinale, who will be at the Meazza tonight to attend the match at a hugely delicate moment for Milan.
On the other side, the Rossoblù arrive at San Siro with survival already secured and the certainty of remaining in Serie A next year as well. Pisacane’s men, in fact, are on 40 points, six clear of Cremonese, who will be fighting for survival tonight.
🔴 Article constantly being updated: click the match card above for live text commentary.
🎙️ Tare: "Modric? I think in the end he’ll stay"
Rossoneri sporting director Igli Tare spoke to Dazn microphones shortly before kickoff against Cagliari: "We tried to shut out the rumours, it happened last week and again this week. Tonight’s match is crucial for the objective we set ourselves at the start of the season and we want to celebrate with our fans. He also made reference to his own future and that of Luka Modric: «I think in the end he’ll stay, he’s a Milan fan, he really cares about this team. I’m convinced that in the end he’ll stay. As for me, I don’t know whether my future is linked to the Champions League. We’re paid to get results. As Allegri said, it’s important for all of us to stay focused on this target. If we win tonight, we’ll have achieved what they brought me here for. Starting tomorrow we’ll plan everything concerning the future».
🤬 Chants and banners outside San Siro against the club
The Rossoneri fans’ protests are not stopping and once again, as already happened in recent weeks during the 3-2 defeat to Atalanta, they protested against the club outside San Siro: "Furlani, get out. Ibra, Moncada and Scaroni, follow him quickly."
FAYETTEVILLE — Arkansas baseball has flipped the script, and it's now a toss-up if there will be postseason games played inside Baum-Walker Stadium.
The Razorbacks (39-19) are in the midst of a late-season surge that could result in a home regional. With the SEC Tournament championship still to play, Arkansas has 20 total wins over SEC teams and is second in the country with 18 Quad 1 victories. The Hogs' RPI remains outside the top-20 at No. 21 overall.
Arkansas improved its résumé in recent weeks by winning four consecutive SEC series. Dave Van Horn's squad went on the road and won two-of-three against Kentucky to close out the regular season.
The Hogs then kept the positive momentum rolling this week at the SEC Tournament. They beat Tennessee, Texas and Auburn to set up a date with Georgia in the final. All four of those teams will play in the NCAA Tournament, with the final three opponents all likely to host a regional.
The NCAA Tournament begins May 29 with the College World Series scheduled to end June 22. Below is a look at where the Razorbacks stand in four postseason projections.
Arkansas baseball bracketology, May 24
Baseball America is predicting Arkansas to be the final regional host as the No. 16 overall seed. The Razorbacks are joined by Southern California, Boston College and Lamar in these projections. Their first game would be against Lamar, and these four teams would be paired with the Los Angeles regional, hosted by No. 1 UCLA.
PeaRatings sends the Razorbacks to the Los Angeles Regional with No. 16 Southern California. The other opponents in this projection are High Point and Southeast Missouri State, with the Hogs facing the Panthers in the opening game of the tournament. This bracket would have a West Coast theme for Arkansas as the No. 1 seed and Super Regional pairing would again be UCLA.
D1Baseball's latest projections have Arkansas hosting as the No. 15 overall seed. A familiar theme is developing with Southern California joining the Razorbacks in the Fayetteville Regional. The other two teams would be TCU and Lamar, and they would be paired with the Atlanta Regional, hosted by No. 2 Georgia Tech.
USA TODAY's latest batch of projections say the Razorbacks will be the No. 14 seed. They would be matched with No. 3 Georgia for a potential super regional. These projections do not list any potential regional opponents.
Jackson Fuller covers Arkansas football, basketball and baseball for the Southwest Times Record, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at jfuller@usatodayco.com or follow him @jacksonfuller16 on X, formerly known as Twitter.
No. 9 Texas A&M (39-14, 18-11 SEC) enters Monday's NCAA Tournament Selection Show hoping that a top-8 national seed is still in play, but after falling to Auburn in the SEC Tournament Quarterfinals, combined with Florida and Southern Miss making deep runs, the Aggies are likely headed towards earning the 10-seed, based on recent projections.
Before Georgia faces Arkansas in the SEC Tournament Championship on Sunday, it's clear that the Aggies' 4-6 regular-season finish has likely kept them from earning a national seed, despite finishing the regular season with 18 conference wins, including six SEC series victories.
Still, this roster is beat up, especially with star LHP Aiden Sims and freshman third baseman Nico Partida sidelined, whose combined absences have left the Aggies searching for answers, especially after giving up seven runs and registering just two hits against Auburn on Friday night. However, second-year coach Michael Earley stated last week that he expects Sims to return for the Regional Round, while Partida is also on track to return.
On Sunday, less than 24 hours before every tournament matchup is announced, D1Baseball's latest NCAA Tournament projections did not change from Saturday's release, with the Aggies still considered the 10-seed and hosting Oklahoma State, UCLA, and Rider in the College Station Regional.
Texas A&M will find out its postseason fate on Monday, May 25, at 11 a.m. on ESPN2.
🔮LATEST D1 FIELD OF 64🔮
The very latest @d1baseball Field of 64 Projections, presented by @CWSOmaha, are OUT!
- Top 8 remains the same - ONE new Top 16 host - One stolen bid/team removed.
Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.
BOSTON (AP) — Red Sox ace left-hander Garrett Crochet is set to throw batting practice off the Fenway Park mound on Tuesday as he returns from inflammation in his pitching shoulder.
Crochet was 3-3 with a 6.30 ERA when he went on the injured list on April 29. He had a bullpen session before Saturday’s loss to the Minnesota Twins, his fourth side session.
“I think right now we’re on track for a live BP on Tuesday,” interim manager Chad Tracy said before Boston faced Minnesota Sunday.
After his bullpen Saturday, Crochet seemed encouraged.
“Feeling good, feeling confident in the throw,” he said. “Mechanics are in a good spot. That’s kind of the sucky part of all this, is that’s all I have to focus on right now.”
Last year he went 18-5 with a 2.59 ERA in his first season with the Red Sox, who signed him to a $170 million, six-year contract that started this year.
Draymond Green routinely called Karl-Anthony Towns soft and a frontrunner early in their NBA careers. The Warriors forward even falsely claimed Towns skipped a game to avoid Jimmy Butler.
Green later used playful on-court trash talk to spark a competitive fire in his rival. This tough talk forced the Knicks star to play with an aggressive dog mentality. Green now takes full credit for provoking that big change in Towns' tough attitude.
But now Green is showing some major respect for Towns and his impressive defensive turnaround in the Eastern Conference Finals. During a recent episode of Inside the NBA, Green expressed surprise at how Towns has transformed his game.
Towns has been the defensive anchor for the New York Knicks against the Cleveland Cavaliers. New York holds a commanding 3-0 series lead heading into Game 4 on Monday.
"I've never seen Karl Anthony Towns defend and be as engaged as he is on the defensive end," Green said. "What we've seen for years is him get these dumb fouls. He's not even doing that anymore!"
Draymond Green on Karl Anthony Towns:
“I’ve never seen Karl Anthony Towns defend and be as engaged as he is on the defensive end. What we’ve seen for years, and this year some, is him get these dumb fouls. He’s not even doing that anymore!” pic.twitter.com/D9UB42g7Rr
The comment is significant because it comes from one of the league's most respected defenders. Green won Defensive Player of the Year in 2017 and has four NBA championships.
Towns recorded 13 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists in New York's Game 3 victory. He added three steals and committed zero turnovers across 36 minutes of play.
Knicks coach Mike Brown praised his center's two-way performance after the win. "KAT, he was our hub offensively and defensively with three steals," Brown said.
The 30-year-old is using his seven-foot frame to disrupt opponents in the pick-and-roll. His improved discipline has eliminated the careless fouls that plagued him in previous seasons.
New York has won 10 consecutive playoff games heading into a potential closeout. No NBA team has ever overcome a 3-0 series deficit in league history.
The Knicks can secure their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999 with one more victory. Game 4 tips off Monday night in Cleveland at 8 p.m. Eastern on ESPN.
Epic Games teases Unreal Engine 6 with Rocket League At the Rocket League Paris Major, Epic Games and Psyonix have teased a “new era” and a “new engine” for Rocket League. At the end of their teaser below, an Unreal Engine logo with a 6 was showcased. Clearly, Rocket League is moving to Unreal Engine […]
During the Rocket League Championship Series 2026 in Paris, developer Psyonix and parent company Epic Games revealed that the popular free-to-play vehicular soccer game will be the first game to use the new Unreal Engine 6. That's really all we know right now, as neither Psyonix nor Epic provided any details about the update or the engine. Thus, we have no choice but to fall back on Epic's previous comments on the next generation of its game-making suite. In May 2025, Epic president and majority owner Tim Sweeney said UE6 was “a few years away” and that Epic may seed preview versions […]
Google is apparently gearing up to introduce one of its biggest design revamps ever with the upcoming Pixel 11 Pro, going so far as to grant the unreleased smartphone a cameo within its recent I/O keynote. Unfortunately for Google, the tantalizing teaser of the Pixel 11 Pro was a bit too brief, managing to evade getting noticed by virtually the entire tech-related blogosphere, until now that is. Google's tantalizing Pixel 11 Pro teaser suggests a new design language is in the works, one that borrows heavily from the Nothing Phone's Glyph interface As you can see in the cover image, […]
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One UI 8.5 and One UI 9 are the latest software versions available on Samsung Galaxy smartphones. The difference between the two versions isn’t significant, but some aspects are literally seeing welcome changes.
Samsung’s Android 17-based One UI 9 update brings changes to the Quick Panel, Media Player, Now Bar, Lock Screen, Settings page, Galaxy AI interface, and Accessibility.
The new One UI 9 Beta is yet to be available widely, but a video posted by the YouTube channel Mr Android FHD showcases a side-by-side comparison of key changes over the One UI 8.5 update.
Lock Screen
Samsung isn’t bringing many changes to the lock screen. The Adaptive Clock has added another font style, which looks familiar. Meanwhile, the UI tweaks connected to Now Bar and Media Player elevate the user experience.
For instance, the upgraded media player UI shows dynamic waveforms on Now Bar.
Lock Screen Media Player
The expanded version of Media Player shows colorful waveforms on the lock screen. The visuals change as per the audio and media thumbnail.
The bottom card has also been removed, offering a more streamlined appearance on the lock screen. The buttons now sit independently, and the expansion animations have also become fluid.
Quick Panel
Quick Panel has become much cleaner in One UI 9. The sliders of brightness and media sound have become open for personalization.
Users can customise them according to their preferences, such as alignment, size, and orientation. The dark/light mode buttons have also been separated from the sliders.
Individual toggles now look cleaner in One UI 9, as they no longer have circular borders.
Galaxy AI feature suite
Samsung’s focus continues to be on refinements in One UI 9. The biggest beneficiary is the Galaxy AI features page, which no longer has that lengthy description tagged with each feature.
This is a major change, which cleans up the entire page and makes navigation easier. Opening a feature shows the related information and description of the function.
Accessibility
Samsung’s One UI 9 Beta press release focused much on Accessibility. One UI 8.5 has all the necessary features inside the Accessibility page, but One UI 9 takes it to another level.
The software has added a dedicated tab called “What’s new in One UI 9” in the Accessibility section. Opening the tap displays the newly added Accessibility tools, which ease the use cases in certain cases.
One UI 9 is still in development, and more changes will emerge as the Beta testing progress. We will conduct a continuous deep dive once the Beta software lands in the remaining Beta markets, highly expected on May 26.
As someone who has used Samsung phones for years, I have watched the company improve its software updates from just 10 points to a massive 90 points out of 100. Samsung is now promising up to 7 years of Android updates and security patches to its smartphones. And it’s not just for expensive flagship phones. Mid-range phones are also getting these longer software updates.
But many loyal Galaxy users still feel frustrated. But Why? When your phone has a problem, getting actual help often feels like a big struggle. Is it time for Samsung to pay more attention to excellent customer support instead of just throwing software updates?
I genuinely appreciate Samsung’s extended software update policy. Samsung Galaxy devices from the Galaxy S24 to S26 series will get new features for many years, security fixes, and One UI improvements.
But installing software updates doesn’t always go smoothly. Many Galaxy phone users report new issues after updating, such as green lines on the display, battery draining quickly, or the phone slowing down. With such issues, there’s only one place to visit – Samsung support. Service centers sometimes just say it’s the user’s fault instead of investigating software-related causes. That makes the long support period feel less useful.
If you look on social media including Reddit, X, or Samsung’s official communities, you will find so many stories of long wait times, unhelpful reps, and repairs that drag for weeks.
Users are facing broken screens, battery issues, and numberous glitches after installing a software update. There’s one big complaint, Samsung is blaming hardware faults on software (and the other way around), which leaves customers paying big repair bills or being told to just buy a new phone. Even in some cases Samsung is offering free repairs or replacement, but the process is messy and differs from region to region. In simple words, amazing software is useless if support isn’t good when things go wrong.
Let’s be honest, most Galaxy phone owners don’t get excited about every new One UI version. They simply want their phone to work without issues. When something goes wrong, quick and friendly support can make all the difference and turn customers into loyal fans. Apple is excellent at this, people often praise how easy and hassle-free the repairs are. Samsung could learn from that.
Better support doesn’t mean fewer software updates. Samsung should give better training to its staff so that they can understand software bugs, quicker fixes for widespread issues, honest communication about problems, and more convenient repair options.
Here’s what I think. Samsung needs to put more effort into customer support. It will make the 7-year update promise feel real and trustworthy, instead of just marketing.
Samsung doesn’t have to choose one over the other. The long software support already makes Samsung stand out among other Android phones. Improving customer service would make the whole experience much better and help users feel valued. Samsung is doing great with the software part. It’s time to make support equally impressive.
If you buy a premium Galaxy device and know that if anything goes wrong, you will get fast and fair help. That builds a real Sammy Fan.
Amid Manchester United’s resurgence, Bruno Fernandes has once again emerged as the undisputed leader of the attack. Through his outstanding impact, the Portuguese star has managed to break the Premier League assist record previously held by Kevin De Bruyne and David Beckham.
Despite an unstable start to the season, Manchester United have managed to turn things around, even securing their place in the UEFA Champions League. For this resurgence, head coach Michael Carrick has placed his trust in Bruno Fernandes, who has once again been the leader of the attack. Thanks to his outstanding season, the Portuguese midfielder has managed to break the Premier League assist record previously held by Kevin De Bruyne and David Beckham.
Bruno Fernandes scored a goal and provided an assist in the Red Devils’ victory over Brighton & Hove Albion F.C. With this, the 31-year-old star reached 21 assists in the Premier League during the 2025–26 season, becoming the league’s standout player in that category. In addition, he surpassed Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry who previously held the record with 20 assists, writing his name into the history of the league’s greats.
Since his arrival at Manchester United in 2020, Bruno has become the team’s best player year after year, standing out amid the storm. Through his historic impact, the 31-year-old star has already recorded 107 goals and 108 assists in 327 appearances, making it clear that he has been one of the best signings in the club’s history. With a contract running until 2027, along with an optional extension, he looks set to further grow his legacy at the club.
Not only has Bruno surpassed Henry’s record, but he has also overtaken him in total Premier League assists. While the Portuguese midfielder now has 108 assists, the French legend recorded 79. However, the 31-year-old star still remains behind Kevin De Bruyne, who has registered 121 assists in 288 appearances, underlining his enormous impact on the league’s history.
Michael Carrick’s tenure at Man United pushes Bruno Fernandes to stay
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Bruno Fernandes’ future was a major topic of debate, as Manchester United’s sporting project was marked by significant instability. Nevertheless, Michael Carrick has transformed the team into one of the most competitive sides, giving them a clear playing style that has led them back to the UEFA Champions League. With continuity now secured, the Portuguese midfielder’s future could remain at Old Trafford.
Although he is under contract until 2027, Bruno has reportedly requested a significant improvement in the squad’s competitiveness. With them set to compete in the Champions League, the Red Devils may need to strengthen both midfield and the wings, as they currently lack depth in those areas. With these changes and Carrick in charge, the 31-year-old star could, for the first time in many years, see a truly competitive team capable of fighting for titles again.
Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United celebrates scoring a goal.
While claiming the record of most assists in a single Premier League season, Bruno Fernandes has joined Lionel Messi and Thomas Muller in history of Europe's top 5 leagues.
Bruno Fernandes brought the curtain down on his 2025-26 season with Manchester United in historic fashion, breaking the Premier League single-season assist record and joining an exclusive company in the process. The milestone has placed the Portuguese midfielder alongside Lionel Messi and Thomas Muller in the history books of Europe’s top five leagues.
After a disastrous previous campaign in which the club sank to the lowest Premier League finish in their history and missed out on European soccer entirely, United redirected all of their focus toward securing a return to the UEFA Champions League. Fernandes was the engine behind that mission, posting eight goals and 20 assists heading into the final matchday.
On Matchday 38, United traveled to Brighton with Fernandes needing just one more assist to break the all-time record. In the 33rd minute, he delivered a precise corner from the right that Patrick Dorgu met with a header to find the net, giving Fernandes the record-breaking 21st assist of his campaign.
🚨🚨| GOAL: BRUNO FERNANDES ASSISTS DORGU AS UNITED TAKE THE LEAD!!!
With that, Bruno Fernandes became the first player in the history of the Premier League to register 21 assists in a single season, surpassing the long-standing benchmark of 20 shared by Thierry Henry with Arsenal in 2002-03 and Kevin De Bruyne with Manchester City in 2019-20.
Fernandes joins Messi and Müller in a league of their own
With 21 assists in the Premier League, Fernandes has become just the third player in the history of Europe’s top five leagues to reach that mark in a single season, joining Messi and Muller, who both achieved the feat during the 2019-20 campaign.
In a league of his own.
Bruno Fernandes breaks the record for the most assists in a Premier League season! pic.twitter.com/f4bDg5O5WW
In the 2019-20 La Liga season, Messi delivered 21 assists alongside 25 goals for Barcelona, while Muller matched that assist total in the 2019-20 Bundesliga campaign, adding eight goals for Bayern Munich. Those figures had stood as the ceiling for any player across the continent’s elite leagues until Fernandes matched them on Sunday.
Single-season assist records across Europe’s top five leagues
Premier League (England): Bruno Fernandes, Manchester United, 2025-26 — 21 assists.
La Liga (Spain): Lionel Messi, Barcelona, 2019-20 — 21 assists.
Bundesliga (Germany): Thomas Muller, Bayern Munich, 2019-20 — 21 assists.
Ligue 1 (France): Angel Di Maria, PSG, 2015-16 and Jerome Rothen, Monaco, 2002-03 — 18 assists.
Serie A (Italy): Federico Dimarco, Inter Milan, 2025-26 — 18 assists.
Lionel Messi (L) of FC Barcelona, Bruno Fernandes (M) of Manchester United, and Thomas Muller (R) of Bayern Munich.
Tottenham managed to avoid relegation to the EFL Championship by winning/drawing against Everton in a hard-fought match. With Arsenal crowned Premier League champions and Spurs securing their survival, the 2025–26 standings now have a definitive order.
Following Ange Postecoglou’s dismissal, Tottenham Hotspur endured a rather tense season, suffering defeats for most of the campaign that left them fighting to avoid relegation to the EFL Championship. Despite the competitiveness, Roberto de Zerbi’s team managed to secure a draw against Everton, ensuring their place in the Premier League for another season. With Arsenal as champions and Spurs avoiding disaster, the 2025–26 standings are now finalized.
Even though Everton had absolutely nothing at stake in this match, they still delivered a highly competitive performance. In the middle of a rather inconsistent season, they were looking to finish on a positive note, aiming to prepare properly for the next campaign and improve their competitiveness. Nevertheless, Tottenham’s urgency and pressure made the difference, allowing them to secure the result expected by supporters.
After the disappointments under Thomas Frank and Igor Tudor, Spurs decided to take a radical turn, committing to a long-term project by placing Roberto De Zerbi in charge. Although he did not seem like the most promising option to avoid relegation, the Italian head coach managed to build a promising squad, making the team quite solid defensively while implementing a highly exciting style of play.
While Tottenham Hotspur struggled to avoid relegation to the EFL Championship, Arsenal, their biggest rival, won the Premier Leagueand now appear on course for a historic season. With a sporting project built over the long term, they managed to surpass Manchester City in the league and are set to face PSG in the UEFA Champions League, with the chance to secure a historic campaign. Following all 38 matchdays, the 2025–26 standings have now taken shape.
Micky van de Ven of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates his team’s first goal.
How do the final 2025–26 Premier League standings look?
With Tottenham’s victory, they reached 41 points, maintaining 17th place in the Premier League standings. With this, head coach Roberto De Zerbi manages to avoid a massive disaster, keeping together a highly promising squad filled with numerous young talents. In addition, Spurs’ victory condemns West Ham United to relegation to the EFL Championship regardless of their result, causing a huge disaster for the club.
2025-26 Premier League standings
Alongside the Hammers, Burnley and Wolves join the relegation list for the 2025–26 season. Not only has the relegation battle now been decided, but also the UEFA Champions League spots, with Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, Aston Villa, and Liverpool securing qualification. Alongside them, AFC Bournemouth and Sunderland have secured their places in the UEFA Europa League. Finally, Brighton & Hove Albion will compete in the UEFA Conference League.
Mathys Tel of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates scoring a goal.
Türkiye Sigorta Türkiye Basketbol Ligi play-off final serisi üçüncü maçında Parmos Bordo ile Gaziantep Basketbol karşılaştı. Parmos Bordo, Gaziantep Basketbol'u 79-65 mağlup ederek Süper Lig'e yükseldi.
Türkiye Sigorta Türkiye Basketbol Ligi play-off final serisi üçüncü maçında Parmos Bordo, Gaziantep Basketbol'u 79-65 mağlup ederek Süper Lig'e yükseldi.
Karataş Şahinbey Spor Salonu'nda oynanan maçın ilk çeyreğini Parmos Bordo 18-28 önde tamamlarken devreye ise 45-37 üstünlükle girdi.
Üçüncü çeyreği 63-55 önde bitiren konuk ekip, karşılaşmadan 79-65 galibiyetle ayrıldı.
Bu galibiyetle seride durumu 3-0 yapan Balıkesir ekibi, gelecek sezon Türkiye Sigorta Basketbol Süper Ligi'nde mücadele etmeye hak kazandı.
A Milli Kadın Voleybol Takımı, Sırbistan'a 3-1 mağlup oldu.
A Milli Kadın Voleybol Takımı, 2026 FIVB Voleybol Milletler Ligi hazırlıkları kapsamında İtalya'da katıldığı AeQuilibrium Kupası'ndaki üçüncü ve son maçında Sırbistan'a 3-1 yenildi.
Türkiye Voleybol Federasyonunun açıklamasına göre milliler, Cenova kentinde oynanan karşılaşmayı 25-23, 19-25, 18-25 ve 22-25'lik setlerle kaybetti.
Ay-yıldızlı ekip, turnuvayı 1 galibiyet ve 2 mağlubiyetle tamamladı.
A Milli Kadın Voleybol Takımı, Milletler Ligi'nin ilk haftasında 3-8 Haziran tarihlerinde Brezilya'da mücadele edecek.
Trendyol 1. Lig play-off final maçında, Esenler Erokspor ile Arca Çorum FK karşılaştı. Mücadeleyi 2-0 kazanan Çorum FK, Süper Lig'e yükselen son takım oldu.
İngiltere Premier Lig'in son haftasında West Ham United ile Leeds United karşılaştı. West Ham United maçı 3-0 kazanmasına rağmen küme düşmekten kurtulamadı.
İngiltere Premier Lig'in son haftasında West Ham United, Leeds United karşısında 3-0 kazanmasına rağmen küme düşmekten kurtulamadı. West Ham United, ligden düşen son takım oldu.
Premier Lig'de gelecek sezon Coventry, Ipswich ve Acun Ilıcalı'nın takımı Hull City mücadele edecek.
Ziraat Türkiye Kupası'nı kazanarak büyük bir moral depolayan Trabzonspor gözünü gelecek sezona dikti. Bordo-mavililerin gündemindeki isim ise Boca Juniors forması giyen 20 yaşındaki ön libero Milton Delgado.
Fatih Tekke yönetimindeki Trabzonspor, Ziraat Türkiye Kupası'nı kazanarak taraftarına büyük bir mutluluk yaşattı. Bordo-mavililerin yeni hedefi ise gelecek sezon için en iyi kadroyu oluşturmak. Trabzonspor'un gündemine gelen ismi ise Arjantin basını duyurdu.
Arjantin basınından César Luis Merlo, sosyal medya hesabından yaptığı paylaşımda Trabzonspor’un Boca Juniors forması giyen 20 yaşındaki ön libero Milton Delgado için 8 milyon euroluk transfer teklifinde bulunduğunu öne sürdü. Merlo, söz konusu teklifin kabul görmediğini ancak görüşmelerin açık olduğunu da aktardı.
Üst üste 4.kez şampiyon olarak bu sezonu da zaferle bitiren Galatasaray gelecek sezonun kadro planlaması için harekete geçti. Takımda gelecek ve gidecek olan oyuncular yavaş yavaş netlik kazanmaya başlarken Mauro Icardi'deki belirsizlik bir türlü bitmiyor.
Galatasaray, Mauro Icardi ile yeni sözleşmeye sıcak bakıyor ancak bazı şartları da var. Sarı-kırmızılıların şartları ise oyuncunun menajerini zora sokuyor. İşte gittikçe belirsizliğe koşan Icardi'nin yeni sözleşmesinde son durumlar:
-Galatasaray, 1+1 yıllık 5 milyon euro teklif etti.
-Icardi'nin menajeri 7 milyon euro talep etti.
-Galatasaray, teklifin yükselmeyeceğini dile getirdi.
-Galatasaray oynama garantisi vermiyor.
-Okan Buruk'un 'kalmalı' raporu yok.
-Haziran'ın ilk haftasında konu netleşir.
-Üçüncü kişiler; Icardi'nin mevzusunun para olmadığını, rolü olduğunu dile getirdiler.
-Ana planda yer alacağı konjonktürde Galatasaray'da devam etmek istediğini söylemiş.
SEZON PERFORMANSI
Bu sezon Galatasaray formasıyla 47 maçta sahne alan Mauro Icardi, 2.093 dakika sahada kalarak 16 gol ve 3 asistlik performans sergiledi. Gol yollarındaki etkinliğiyle taraftarın sevgilisi haline gelen Arjantinli yıldızın, sözleşmesinin bitimine kısa bir süre kala vereceği karar merakla bekleniyor.
Bayern Münih forması giyen Harry Kane, Alman ekibinde çok mutlu olduğunu ve Dünya Kupası'nın ardından kulüple yeni sözleşme için görüşeceklerini söyledi.
İngiltere Premier Lig'in son haftasında Brentford ile 1-1 berabere kalan Liverpool, sezonu 5. sırada tamamladı ve UEFA Şampiyonlar Ligi biletini kaptı.Devamı için tıklayınız
İngiltere Premier Lig'in son haftasında West Ham United sahasında Leeds United'ı konuk etti. West Ham rakibini 3-0'lık skorla mağlup etti fakat bu skor Londra ekibine yetmedi. West Ham, Premier Lig'de...Devamı için tıklayınız
İngiltere Premier Lig'in son haftasında Manchester City, sahasında Aston Villa'yı 2-1 mağlup oldu. Etihad Stadyumu'nda sezon sonunda takıma veda eden isimler nedeniyle duygusal anlar yaşandı. İşte detaylar...Devamı için tıklayınız
İngiltere Premier Lig'in 38. ve son haftasında şampiyon Arsenal deplasmanda Crystal Palace ile kozlarını paylaştı.Mikel Arteta'nın öğrencileri bu karşılaşmadan 2-1'lik skorla galip ayrıldı. İşte detaylar...Devamı için tıklayınız
İngiltere Premier Lig'in 38. ve son haftasında Manchester United deplasmanda Brighton ile kozlarını paylaştı. Bu karşılaşmadan Manchester United 3-0'lık skorla galip ayrıldı. İşte karşılaşmaya dair detaylar...Devamı için tıklayınız
Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasında mübarizə aparan “Şamaxı”nın dayaq yarımmüdafiəçisi Alfons Mabula Msanqa Tanzaniya millisinə dəvət alıb.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə əyalət klubunun mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb.
Xəbərdə bildirilir ki, Tanzaniya yığması iyunun 1-dən 10-na qədər Mərakəşdə təlim-məşq toplanışında olacaq. 22 yaşlı yarımmüdafiəçi də bu toplanışda millinin düşərgəsində yer alacaq. Bu komandanın toplanış müddətində yoxlama oyunları keçirməsi də gözlənilir.
Alfons Mabula Msanqa “Alyans” klubunun yetirməsidir. O, 2022-ci ilin fevralında Serbiyanın “Spartak” klubuna cəlb olunub. Serbiyada “Novi Sad”da da icarədə olmuş Msanqa 2024-cü ilin iyulunda “Spartak”dan ayrılandan “Şamaxı”ya keçənə kimi işsiz olub. Azərbaycana klubu yarımmüdafiəçini 2025-ci ilin yanvarında azad agent kimi heyətinə qatıb. Onun “Şamaxı” ilə 2026-cı ilin 30 iyununa qədər müqaviləsi mövcuddur. Tanzaniyalı futbolçu Azərbaycan klubunun heyətində bütövlükdə 49 oyuna çıxıb, 6 qol və 1 assistlə yadda qalıb.
Yarımmüdafiəçi daha öncə Tanzaniyanın U-17 və U-20 yığmalarına da cəlb edilib. O, 2025-ci ilin iyun ayında əsas millidə debüt edib və hələlik meydana çıxdığı 8 oyunda qol hesabını aça bilməyib.
Liverpool and Barcelona have reportedly contacted the agents of Inter right wing-back Denzel Dumfries to confirm their interest for the summer transfer window.
Liverpool and Barcelona have confirmed their interest in Dumfries through talks with the representatives of the Netherlands international, according to FcInterNews.
Liverpool and Barcelona are interested in Dumfries
The report claims that Liverpool executives have been in contact with the right-back’s agents in recent weeks, and the same is true for Barcelona.
The Catalans, however, would only consider a move for Dumfries if they sell Jules Koundé for at least €60m.
Dumfries has a €25m release clause in July, and strong performances at the World Cup would likely attract interest from even more European clubs.
Dumfries has had a troubled season due to injuries, but still collected five goals and two assists in 28 appearances across all competitions.
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 04: Denzel Dumfries of Internazionale looks on during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Cremonese at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 04, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Mattia Zaccagni of SS Lazio competes for the ball with DFanzel Dumfries of FC Internazionale during the Coppa Italia final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
His contract at San Siro expires in June 2028.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Liverpool already showed interest in Dumfries during the January window, when the Reds tried to include the Dutchman in a deal for Inter target Curtis Jones.
Napoli end the season the way it started and indeed continued, with fresh injury problems for Alisson Santos, Stanislav Lobotka, Leonardo Spinazzola and Alessandro Buongiorno.
The Partenopei are on the field this evening with their final game of the campaign, hosting Udinese at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
Antonio Conte has said many times that it is remarkable his squad managed to secure a Champions League finish when dealing with numerous injuries.
Those started in pre-season with Romelu Lukaku tearing a thigh muscle, and in the last game there was room for yet more difficulties.
Napoli with fresh injury setbacks
NAPLES, ITALY – MARCH 09: Stanislav Lobotka of Napoli during the Serie A match between Napoli and Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on March 09, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
The Brazilian left the field in tears to a standing ovation from the crowd, but it could be a serious hamstring or flexor strain, which if confirmed could even eat into his pre-season preparations.
Incredibly, Lobotka then followed suit after receiving treatment for a suspected calf injury just 36 minutes into the same match.
This wasn’t the only issue, because Spinazzola and Buongiorno were unexpectedly not in the squad either this evening.
It was later confirmed that both had suffered minor knee injuries in training and would not be risked.
UDINE, ITALY – MAY 17: Cremonese manager Marco Giampaolo reacts during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and US Cremonese at Stadio Friuli on May 17, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
This is the final round of the season, and Cremonese know that even a victory might not be enough to guarantee their Serie A safety, as Lecce go into the weekend one point clear of the relegation zone.
To make matters worse, they are up against a Como side who are still chasing Champions League qualification.
Coach Marco Giampaolo couldn’t believe his bad luck when preparation for this last match was ruined by a stomach virus that swept through the squad.
The curtain came down on one of Anfield’s greatest love stories on Sunday, as Mohamed Salah was substituted off in what is expected to be his final appearance at the iconic stadium.
The Egyptian King, who has been at the heart of Liverpool’s most successful modern era, was met with an emotional standing ovation from every corner of Anfield as he made his way to the touchline.
As Salah’s number was raised by the fourth official, the entire stadium rose to its feet. Chants of his name echoed around the ground in a moment that reduced players, staff, and supporters alike to tears.
Salah visibly took in the moment, pressing his hands to his heart, and casting one long, emotional look back at the pitch he has called home since 2017.
Salah leaves a Liverpool and Premier League legend
(Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
True to his nature, Salah did not depart quietly. Before his substitution, the winger produced a moment of pure brilliance, producing a stunning trivela assist for Curtis Jones to help Liverpool take the lead and also break one final record, overtaking Steven Gerrard’s assist record for the club.
It was a reminder, as if one were needed, of the extraordinary talent Liverpool are saying goodbye to.
In his eight seasons at the club, Salah registered over 230 goals, two Premier League titles, a Champions League, and countless individual records.
He finishes the season with 12 goals and 10 assists across all competitions, taking his overall record for Liverpool to 257 goals and 123 assists.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola and Bernardo Silva shared an emotional moment in today’s final game for the pair at the Etihad Stadium.
Guardiola has recently announced his decision to leave Man City at the end of this season, while Silva is also moving on this summer as he’s come to the end of his contract.
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See below for the moment Bernardo went off in City’s game against Aston Villa, with the Portugal international unsurprisingly given a superb ovation, with Guardiola also very clearly emotional as he subbed him off for the las time…
Bernardo and Guardiola, both with tears in their eyes, hug on their final game together. pic.twitter.com/0PTuKqhN3B
It’s Guardiola’s final match in charge after an amazing ten years at City, and Silva has been one of his most important players in that time.
The pair have enjoyed great success together, both winning six Premier League titles, the Champions League, and numerous other major honours.
What next for Pep Guardiola and Bernardo Silva?
Guardiola will likely take a break from football after deciding to step down as City manager, while Silva is likely to make a decision on his next club soon as he weighs up his options as a free agent.
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City will find it hard to replace two such important figures, with Enzo Maresca linked strongly as Guardiola’s incoming replacement, as per BBC Sport and others.
MCFC will also surely be active in the transfer market to bring in a new midfielder to help replace Silva.
Mohamed Salah has produced a stunning trivela assist to help Liverpool take the lead in his final game for the club.
Liverpool’s Egyptian King has been involved in most of the attack so far against Brentford, having hit the woodwork from a freekick earlier in the first half.
And he delivered the goods in the second half, as the ball broke to Salah, he made his run towards the byline before executing his trademark pass from outside the boot, straight to the arriving Curtis Jones, who finished it from close range to give Liverpool the lead.
Salah, who has looked his best had to be involved in his final game for the club.
Watch the goal below:
Curtis Jones taps in from Mo Salah's cross to put Liverpool in front against Brentford ? pic.twitter.com/QwAVPpIuOb
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 24, 2026
Liverpool’s lead did not last long as Schade made it 1-1 just 6 minutes later with a great header.
A clearance from Jones falls to Lewis-Potter on the right side of the box, who puts in a cross inside the six yard box.
His pass is deflected off the back of a Liverpool defender before falling for Schade who stoops down low and heads it in rather courageously ahead of Robertson to make it 1-1.
Watch the goal below:
Kevin Schade's diving header gets Brentford level at Anfield as they continue to fight for European football next season ? pic.twitter.com/lONMqMkqx0
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 24, 2026
The Portuguese maestro has had a superb season for the Red Devils, and he’s set up yet another goal today.
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Fernandes’ corner led to Patrick Dorgu giving Man Utd the lead away to Brighton, meaning a 21st league assist of the season for the former Sporting Lisbon man.
? Bruno Fernandes makes history – the FIRST player to register 21 Premier League assists! ? pic.twitter.com/Zrvo9FBof2
Eight goals is quite low by Fernandes’ high standards, with the Portugal international once hitting 28 goals in an entire season, while this is the first time in his Old Trafford career that he hasn’t hit double figures.
Still, Fernandes is now on 21 assists and he has moved ahead of some all-time great Premier League creative players in the process…
Player
Club
Assists
Season
Bruno Fernandes
Man United
21
2025/26
Thierry Henry
Arsenal
20
2002/03
Kevin De Bruyne
Man City
20
2019/20
Mesut Ozil
Arsenal
19
2015/16
Cesc Fabregas
Chelsea
18
2014/15
Frank Lampard
Chelsea
18
2004/05
Kevin De Bruyne
Man City
18
2016/17
Mohamed Salah
Liverpool
18
2024/25
Cesc Fabregas
Arsenal
17
2007/08
Fernandes won the Premier League player of the season award for his fine individual campaign, but should the prize perhaps have gone to one of the players involved in Arsenal’s title win?
Tottenham Hotspur has survived relegation from the Premier League, beating Everton 1-0 on Sunday.
The Spurs entered the day sitting 17th in the table and had two scenarios that could lead to relegation.
If Tottenham had lost to Everton and West Ham had beaten Leeds United, Tottenham would have been relegated. The other scenario involved Tottenham and Everton ending in a draw, and the Spurs would have then been relegated if West Ham beat Leeds United by 12 goals.
Instead, Tottenham avoided getting relegated for the first time in the Premier League era, which began in 1992.
In fact, the last time the Spurs were not in the top English football league was in 1977. They went down to the second tier for only one season and then were promoted back.
Tottenham scored a first-half goal with João Palhinha sneaking a shot past Jordan Pickford that just barely crossed the goal line.
🚨🏴 JOAO PALHINHA OPENS THE SCORING FOR TOTTENHAM !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It was all the Spurs needed as they held on for the 1-0 victory.
West Ham United needed to win for Tottenham to have a chance of relegation, and they did so 3-0 over Leeds. Tottenham came extremely close to relegation, avoiding it only by not losing their game.
With Tottenham avoiding relegation, the three teams going down to the Championship after this season will be West Ham United, Burnley and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Spurs finish the 2025-2026 season with a 10-11-17 record over 38 games. Tottenham’s 10 wins are the fewest the team has had in a season since 1935.
That year, the Spurs ended 10-10-22 and were relegated to Division 2. It took Tottenham eight seasons to return to Division 1 in 1950.
Katherine Legge was going for history on Sunday. She was aiming to be the first woman to complete “The Double,” which is racing the full Indianapolis 500 and Coca-Cola 600 on the same day.
Legge wrecked on lap 18 of the Indianapolis 500. She will miss the remainder of the race, but is now expected to travel to Charlotte, North Carolina, to race in the Coca-Cola 600 later this afternoon.
Pep Guardiola took charge of Manchester City for the final time on Sunday (Darren Staples)
Pep Guardiola bid an emotional farewell to Manchester City as a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa on Sunday brought down the curtain on a glittering decade under the Catalan.
The 55-year-old announced Friday that he is set to depart after winning 20 trophies in 10 seasons that made City the dominant force of English football.
Guardiola made his entrance to a rousing reception alongside a giant banner bearing his face and the message "Game changer. History maker. City forever."
Catalan flags were unfurled behind one goal, while at the other end the newly named and expanded Pep Guardiola Stand was in operation for the first time.
The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss won six Premier League titles and City's only Champions League among his haul of 17 major pieces of silverware.
Bernardo Silva and John Stones were part of the squads that won all of those trophies and were also given a fitting send-off in their final game for the club after a combined 19 seasons of service.
Silva was in tears even before kick-off as he led City out as captain for the day.
But there was little on the line for both sides on the field.
City fell short in their quest to chase down Arsenal at the top of the table as a 1-1 draw at Bournemouth on Tuesday saw the Gunners crowned champions.
Villa were still in celebratory mood after winning their first trophy for 30 years on Wednesday by claiming the Europa League.
But victory for Unai Emery's men did ensure they finished in fourth ahead of Liverpool.
Guardiola made nine changes from the side that started at Bournemouth with Erling Haaland among those to not even make the bench.
Antoine Semenyo was one of the few City regulars to start and he put the home side in front with a clever finish from a corner.
Decked in a resplendent white t-shirt and khaki trousers for the uncharacteristically searing temperates in England's north-west, Guardiola remained an animated figure on the touchline despite the dead rubber nature of the contest.
However, he suffered a rare home defeat after Ollie Watkins struck twice in the second half to further justify his inclusion in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the World Cup.
Watkins pounced on a poor header by England team-mate Stones to prod home from a corner.
Both sides then stopped to make a guard of honour for Silva as he was substituted, prompting more tears from the Portugal international and Guardiola.
Villa took advantage as City struggled to compose themselves moments later, Watkins surging clear and producing a classy finish for his 21st goal of the season.
The testimonial nature of the afternoon continued as play was stopped once more for Stones to this time receive a guard of honour and appreciation from the City support.
City thought they had salvaged at least a point when Phil Foden crashed in off the underside of the crossbar.
But a controversial VAR review deemed Foden was offside despite inconclusive evidence.
LAS VEGAS - This past week, in a city built on risk and reward, billionaire biohacker Christian Angermayer went about his wellness routine.
He injected himself with weight loss drugs, testosterone, and legal-but-off-label growth hormones, designed to reduce deep layers of fat and regenerate his cells. To feel more outgoing, he added the peptide oxytocin, typically used by doctors to stimulate labor. For focus, he popped a pill of his usual stimulant, normally prescribed for sleep apnea. He logged tens of thousands of steps, sprinting to meetings at his hotel and doing circles around a large swimming pool.
Angermayer was getting ready to show the world that the experimental health protocols embraced by longevity-obsessed business elites like himself can work for top athletes - and, ultimately, the entire world.
Angermayer, who at 48 looks a decade younger, is the co-founder and funder of the Enhanced Games, a Silicon Valley-backed athletic tournament that breaks a cardinal rule of sports by encouraging athletes to take steroids, hormones, peptides and any legal performance-enhancing drug.
The 42 inaugural participants who will compete Sunday in Vegas are elite swimmers, runners and weightlifters, some of whom are Olympic medalists. They are souped up on proprietary drug regimens prescribed by the organization’s team of doctors - an effort athletes hope will enable them to beat their personal records and earn millions in prize money.
But Angermayer, co-founder and CEO Max Martin, and their team of heavyweight investors have a decidedly bigger ambition for their new sports franchise. They aim to mainstream experimental therapies just as those treatments are gaining cultural momentum and political acceptance.
Enhanced, their telehealth platform, will sell testosterone and other supplements deemed “enhancements” to a wellness-crazed public. What better marketing for these therapies, the founders reason, than enabling the public to witness top athletes surpass peak performance goals, providing living proof that the science behind longevity drugs is real?
The company went public earlier this month with a $1.2 billion valuation and has ties to some of the biggest names in business and politics. One of its main funders is billionaire investor Peter Thiel, who has long been a fan of life-extension treatments, including a process called parabiosis, which involves older people getting transfusions of younger people’s blood. Another backer is 1789 Capital, a venture firm that counts JD Vance strategist Chris Buskirk and Donald Trump Jr. as partners.
Wellness and supplements are a $6.8 trillion global industry, fueled by celebrities, Make America Healthy Again influencers and the “manosphere” on social media, according to the Global Wellness Institute, an industry group. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. - who said he takes testosterone, experimental hormones and amino acid chains known as peptides for antiaging - moved in April to legalize seven peptides that had been restricted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration over safety concerns.
While sports officials and medical experts have raised ethical concerns with the unorthodox event, Angermayer, a serial entrepreneur who controls a $1.6 billion company dedicated to psychedelic medicine, had a different take. He said in an interview he believes it is immoral not to give athletes performance-enhancing substances.
Being a professional athlete “is very cumbersome and puts hard wear and tear on your body,” he said. Withholding drugs that could improve their performance is like sending a miner “into a coal mine but denying them a helmet.”
Enhanced Games executives insist the competition is a legitimate sports enterprise, but others have cast it as a carefully crafted marketing scheme, designed to turn athletics into advertising for a telehealth business that promotes controversial compounds whose benefits and risks remain unclear.
Travis Tygart, chief executive of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, has called the Enhanced Games a “dangerous clown show that puts profit over principle,” warning that the event could encourage children and young athletes to believe they need performance-enhancing drugs to chase athletic dreams.
Pieter Cohen, an associate professor at Harvard Medical School and practicing internist at Cambridge Health Alliance who studies the boundary between drugs and supplements, said it was “really insidious” to use athletes as both test subjects and marketing tools.
“You can take any athletic performance, claim that it was based on these athletic-performing peptides, and then convert that into a marketing campaign,” Cohen said.
Chief executive and co-founder Martin, who at age 29 is also on a cocktail of longevity regimens, told The Post that he was completely against the “glorification” of supplements and opposed the black market that has emerged for longevity products. He said that “enhancements” should be taken with medical supervision, even when they are being prescribed off-label.
But he said it was unfair that an Olympian is banned from taking FDA-approved drugs that any person can buy at a pharmacy. If drugs are legal, “people should have their freedom of choice,” he said.
The company is not just built for athletes, Martin said. It is for anyone who wants to enhance their everyday life, including a grandparent seeking the energy to take a grandchild to the playground, he said, someone trying “to be the best 65-year-old they can possibly be.”
Biohacking the podium
Barring performance-enhancing substances has long been one of the most sacred rules of sports, a sacrosanct line that determines whether competition is fair, authentic and safe.
Enhanced organizers say elite athletes have always searched for an edge - through training, technology, nutrition, equipment and banned drugs. Their argument is that the Enhanced Games will make the last part transparent, medically supervised and financially rewarding.
Of the 42 athletes expected to compete Sunday in a newly constructed competition venue at the Resorts World hotel and casino in Las Vegas, event officials said 36 have been doping in preparation for the event. (Four athletes are competing “naturally.”)
The athletes were stationed together this spring in Abu Dhabi, where they trained and were administered doping regimens that would violate traditional rules and earn hefty bans from competition under normal circumstances. The individualized protocols included performance-enhancing substances and regular medical testing, according to Enhanced Games officials. An Institutional Review Board-approved clinical study is tied to the company’s medical program.
Organizers have not released individual athletes’ regimens but revealed this past week that 91 percent used testosterone, 79 percent used human growth hormone, 62 percent used stimulants such as Adderall, 50 percent used metabolic modulators, 41 percent used EPO and 29 percent used an anabolic steroid agent such as Deca-Durabolin.
The athletes are not just aiming to challenge the limits of human potential: They are lured with hefty financial rewards. Athletes who manage to break certain records can earn a $1 million bonus, a life-changing sum in a field where even Olympians often struggle to build financially secure careers.
“I’ll be very straightforward: It’s about the money,” said English swimmer Ben Proud, who won a silver medal competing at the 2024 Olympics in Paris. “This is not what an Olympic athlete would say is the epitome of sport.”
Even before the first event Sunday, organizers say they already have proof of concept. In February 2025, an early signee named Kristian Gkolomeev, a Greek Olympic swimmer who had finished fifth in the 50 freestyle at the Paris Olympics, swam 20.89 seconds in a secret time trial in Greensboro, North Carolina, topping Cesar Cielo’s official world record time by two hundredths of a second. Enhanced celebrated the swim as a breakthrough and awarded him the bonus money, though the mark is not recognized as an official record.
Enhanced’s defense starts with a simple claim: its medically supervised protocol is safer than the secret doping that athletes have been doing for years.
According to Enhanced officials, athletes in the study were permitted to consider substances across five categories: testosterone esters, anabolic agents, peptides and growth factors, metabolic modulators and stimulants.
Medical and anti-doping experts say Enhanced’s framing leaves important questions unresolved. A drug can be legal. A doctor can prescribe it. A study can monitor athletes for short-term harms. But none of that proves that powerful substances are safe for athletes using them to chase records, especially when used off-label, in combinations or doses that have not been well studied.
The World Anti-Doping Agency polices drug use across the sprawling Olympics world, and a spokesman for the global body called the Enhanced Games “a dangerous and irresponsible concept.”
“Just because a drug is FDA approved … or is provided under medical supervision, does not mean it can be taken risk-free,” said WADA’s James Fitzgerald. “These are powerful drugs and they can cause serious harm - sometimes immediately, sometimes months or years later.”
He noted that steroids, testosterone, human growth hormone and EPO can carry serious risks, including heart attack, stroke, blood clots, liver damage, diabetes, hormonal disruption, infertility, psychiatric effects and sudden cardiac death.
“The reality is that sports medicine still doesn’t fully understand the long-term consequences of stacking multiple substances together at the doses elite athletes might use to chase records,” he said.
While Enhanced officials aren’t detailing individual athlete protocols, James Magnussen, the Australian Olympic medalist who became the first prominent athlete publicly tied to the games, spent months on a regimen of daily injections in his stomach and backside. Magnussen told the Sydney Morning Herald that regimen included testosterone, the peptides BPC-157 and thymosin, and ipamorelin and CJC-1295, which are used to stimulate growth-hormone release.
That kind of stack is precisely what worries medical experts. Cohen, the Harvard professor, said while many of these compounds “might have significant benefit,” it could take years to understand their full effects, with dangers often not obvious in the moment.
“Risks are usually subtle, and it takes time and scholarship and studies and costs a lot of money to try to sort it out,” he said.
A convert to enhancement
Angermayer isn’t the most obvious person to make a career selling controversial drugs. He describes himself as maniacally cautious by nature. Growing up in the 1980s in a small town in the German countryside, where heavy drinking is a rite of passage, he abstained from alcohol and mind-altering substances. He tried coffee for the first time at age 29.
Self-control was a survival skill, he said, honed during childhood by fear that imbibing any such product might cause him to slip up and reveal the secret of his homosexuality.
“Where I come from, heavy drinking starts at age 14,” he said. “I was popular, but I was like, if I drink alcohol, I’m gonna spill it. … That’s when I decided I would never touch anything.”
A competitive overachiever in everything except sports, he did make an exception for one product: fructose, a crystallized fruit sugar that is popular in Germany. He kept a pack on his desk every time he took a test at school.
But overachievement was also a form of self-protection. Even if people did find out he was gay, “you’re kind of protected by success.”
By his late 20s, he had left Bavaria behind and had become a successful entrepreneur. One evening in 2013, he was invited to a dinner party where he happened to be sitting next to a scientist studying the potential of psychedelics to heal trauma and improve mental health. The men spent the evening in animated conversation, but Angermayer said he left feeling deeply skeptical.
He also wasn’t interested: He felt that he was a generally happy person without psychological wounds.
Instead, he asked the researcher for recommendations for what might improve his looks, along with his physical and cognitive performance. The researcher recommended the stimulant modafinil, which he takes to this day.
He became fascinated by the subject, doing his own research. A year later, at an Easter party, he was offered homegrown “magic” mushrooms containing the compound psilocybin. He called the scientist, who had been sending research for a year, “and he was like, ‘Do it!’” Angermayer recalled.
He said his trip was unexpectedly powerful, the most profound experience of his life. He connected to inner truths about the person he was becoming, he said. From that moment on, he was a believer.
While most friends thought he was crazy to start a pharmaceutical company to develop psilocybin - years before author Michael Pollan published a best-selling book on magic mushrooms - Thiel and cryptocurrency investor Michael Novogratz backed his plan.
By 2023, he had become one of Europe’s best known biotechnology investors and his psilocybin company, Atai, had gone public on Nasdaq. Around that time, an Australian businessman, Aron D’Souza, approached him about a different idea, a sports tournament that he framed as a libertarian challenge to the anti-doping system.
“He came to me saying … you’ve done it once with psychedelics,” Angermayer recalled. Here’s “another similarly crazy idea.”
D’Souza needed helped raising money. So Angermayer went to Thiel and other friends in the billionaire’s network of libertarian techno-futurists. A year later, Enhanced publicly announced its seed round of financing, which included Thiel, Angermayer’s Apeiron Investment Group, former Coinbase chief technology officer Balaji Srinivasan, brothers Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss, and a Saudi prince. The venture firm 1789 Capital, where Trump Jr. is a partner, became a major investor in 2025. A spokesman for Trump Jr. did not respond to a request for comment.
The first Enhanced Games were initially floated for late 2024, but they never happened, feeding skepticism that the venture would never move beyond provocation. D’Souza left the company last year, and Angermayer tapped a mentee from his investment company, co-founder Martin, to become CEO.
Martin said they spent much of the past year recruiting athletes, scientists and doctors to join the league. At first, this was slow going, but over the past two years, the enterprise slowly added athletes to its roster - including Proud, American sprinter Fred Kerley and the burly Icelandic weightlifter Hafthor Björnsson. Now Martin says he has world record holders, doctors and Olympians “in my Instagram DMs.”
The company’s U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings suggest Sunday’s event is less the core business than the billboard. Enhanced noted that the competition is a way to build brand awareness, generate media content, engage athletes and acquire consumers.
“What works for a world record holder informs what works for consumers,” the company said in a recent news release.
Angermayer and his team have spent months building out a $20 million competition venue on the Vegas Strip, and on Sunday they’ll host 2,500-invite only spectators - including 16 luxury boxes - and stream the spectacle to the world, including a post-event concert by the Vegas rock band the Killers.
The athletes have long ago come to terms with what the competition is - and what it isn’t.
“It should be seen for now as entertainment, in the future as human optimization and human performance,” said Magnussen, the Aussie swimmer.
Magnussen made his comments Friday in a hotel ballroom, meeting with reporters and explaining his journey from Olympic swimming to Sunday’s doped-up pool. His veins were popping and muscles nearly busting through skin. At 35, he said he’s never felt healthier in his life.
“For the past decade, it’s really only been available to the elite. We’re bringing this to the everyday person,” he said. “I want everyone to have the potential to live longer and have access to these products, like we do.”
Angermayer said that he was watching the FDA, which has begun reconsidering whether some restricted peptides could be produced by compounding pharmacies, a move that Kennedy said could bring powerful substances out of the black market. It could give Enhanced a whole new set of products to sell.
But the billionaire said only handful of the peptides noted by Kennedy had enough scientific data to consider them worth selling.
“The power of the idea is that we’re going against everything people were told for decades [about] how sports should function,” he said. “But we have science, ethics, and morals on our side.”
The final day of the Premier League season delivered twists and turns and now the qualification places for next season’s European competitions has been confirmed.
Unai Emery’s side then defeated City on Pep Guardiola’s send-off match at the Etihad to finish fourth ahead of Liverpool, who themselves waved farewell to club legends Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson but were held to a 1-1 draw by Brentford.
Those results had huge implications for one club: with sixth-placed Bournemouth qualifying for the Europa League after the door to the Champions League was closed off to them. They will be joined in the Europa League by Sunderland, with Brighton going into the Conference League.
And there could be one more English team in next season’s European competitions to come: if Crystal Palace beat Rayo Vallecano in the Conference League final on Wednesday, they will qualify for the league phase of the Europa League.
Champions League
Qualified: Arsenal (1st), Manchester City (2nd), Manchester United (3rd), Aston Villa (4th and Europa League winners), Liverpool (5th)
For six teams to qualify for the Champions League, Aston Villa had to win the Europa League AND finish fifth. Unai Emery’s team did the first part of that by beating Freiburg, but ensured they finished fourth by beating Manchester City. Ollie Watkins’ double spoiled Pep Guardiola’s send-off at the Etihad.
Liverpool, meanwhile, had to settle for fifth after finishing their season with a 1-1 draw against Brentford at Anfield.
Europa League
Qualified: Bournemouth (6th), Sunderland (7th)
Two remarkable stories here: Bournemouth qualify for European football for the first time in their history, while Sunderland, promoted last season, return to Europe for the first time in 53 years.
Bournemouth sold up to £200m of first-team stars last summer, then lost Antoine Semenyo in January. But Andoni Iraola has managed a sensational job at the Cherries, who have been unbeaten in the Premier League since early January. Remarkably, he is now set to leave the club, so Bournemouth will be looking for a new manager for their European campaign.
And how about Sunderland? Down in League One as recently as 2021-22, the Black Cats finish a remarkable seventh in their first season back in the Premier League under Regis Le Bris. Starting the day in 10th, Sunderland jumped three places with a 2-1 win over Chelsea at the Stadium of Light, knocking the Blues out of the race for Europe in the process. Not since 1973-74 have Sunderland competed in Europe, where they entered the Cup Winners’ Cup.
Conference League
Qualified: Brighton (8th)
The Seagulls could have qualified for the Europa League with a win over Manchester United but record-breaking Bruno Fernandes inspired the visitors to a final-day win on the south coast. But Brighton will get a second taste of European football, having reached the last-16 of the Europa League in 2023-24. As Crystal Palace have proved this season, Brighton may start next season’s Conference League as the favourites to go all the way.
Brentford won at Liverpool to finish with the same record as Brighton (W 14, D 11, L 13) but they missed out on goal difference (+6 to +3). Chelsea’s defeat at Sunderland means Xabi Alonso will have no European football to contend with next season in his first campaign at Stamford Bridge. And, as outlined above, if Crystal Palace beat Rayo Vallecano in the Conference League final on Wednesday, they will qualify for the league phase of the Europa League as well.
Bolton Wanderers have secured their return to the Championship for the first time since 2019, triumphing over Stockport County with a commanding 4-1 victory in the League One play-off final at Wembley.
Substitute Sam Dalby proved instrumental in the decisive win, scoring a crucial third goal and playing a key role in an earlier own goal that restored Bolton’s lead, sparking wild celebrations among their nearly 30,000 fans.
Ruben Rodrigues bookended the scoring for Bolton, netting the opener in the third minute and converting a late penalty to seal the victory. Stockport’s day was further marred by the stoppage-time dismissal of former Bolton right-back Josh Dacres-Cogley, who received a red card for a hair pull on Ibrahim Cissoko, marking County’s second Wembley defeat of the season.
Steven Schumacher’s side, who had experienced play-off final disappointment against Oxford in 2024, took an early advantage when Rodrigues capitalised on a goalkeeping error.
Stockport’s Corey Addai needlessly scooped a relatively tame 30-yard shot from Thierry Gale into the path of Mason Burstow, whose attempt was then cleared by Ethan Pye straight to Rodrigues, who fired home.
Bolton intensified their attack in the second half, with Addai making another unconvincing save from Josh Sheehan early on (Getty Images)
Stockport believed they had equalised eight minutes later through Adama Sidibeh, but a controversial VAR intervention – a technology notably absent throughout the regular season – saw referee Josh Smith overturn his on-pitch call, awarding Wanderers a free-kick for a "careless foul" on George Johnston.
Despite this, Sidibeh did eventually level for the Hatters in the 29th minute, heading home an Odin Bailey cross, as temperatures on the pitch soared above 30 degrees.
Bolton intensified their attack in the second half, with Addai making another unconvincing save from Josh Sheehan early on. The turning point arrived when Dalby replaced Xavier Simons on the hour mark.
Just three minutes later, his pass sent Amario Cozier-Duberry through, whose weak effort was pushed by Addai onto Kyle Wootton, who inadvertently deflected the ball into his own net. Bolton goalkeeper Jack Bonham then showed his worth, making a crucial block to deny substitute Tanto Olaofe a goal-bound strike.
This proved a pivotal intervention as Dalby then added a brilliant overhead kick for his 14th goal of the season, before Rodrigues sealed the victory from the spot after Dacres-Cogley’s dismissal, ensuring Bolton’s seventh play-off final appearance ended in glory.
This emphatic win marks Bolton’s successful return to the second tier, two years after their previous play-off final heartbreak, and signals a triumphant end to their League One campaign.
PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 11: Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates during an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on January 11, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Kyle Shanahan and the San Francisco 49ers lost to Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2020 Super Bowl. Just months later they traded multiple first round picks to take a shot at a physically talented and ultra-toolsy quarterback in Trey Lance. Shanahan was chasing the next Mahomes.
Lance was traded to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a mid-round pick in 2023. The experiment failed, and such a move would ordinarily set a franchise back for years.
Instead the 49ers found gold when they selected Brock Purdy with the final pick in 2022. Purdy hit the ground running as a rookie and elevated Shanahan’s offense beyond its historical ceiling with Jimmy Garoppolo at the helm. Purdy is a better pocket passer and processor than Garoppolo ever was. He’s not nearly as athletic as Lance, but he still can scramble to extend players and find solutions even when the play design does not initially hold the answers.
Is he Mahomes? Absolutely not. Should teams emulate the 49ers’ approach and reel back the athletic profile that have led to misses in Lance, Anthony Richardson, Justin Fields, Zach Wilson, and others? Probably, and we are already seeing the fruits of that shift.
Because when the Los Angeles Rams decided it was time to draft a quarterback this offseason, their needle did not move towards the prospects that check every box from an athletic profile standpoint: Drew Allar or Taylen Green. Instead LA opted Ty Simpson, who draws closer comparisons to Purdy in the fact he’s a strong processor and excels more in the mental aspects of the game rather than physical.
The selection of Simpson signals multiple truths: (1) the NFL has re-aimed its target at the quarterback position in terms of what they value coming out of college, and (2) Sean McVay must admire what Purdy has done with the 49ers and is using that as a mold for the future of the Rams.
The Rams aren’t chasing Mahomes, Josh Allen, or Matthew Stafford 2.0. Simpson does not have near the caliber of arm these players do, and he’s certainly not as mobile as Mahomes or Allen.
However, if Simpson is going to find success in Los Angeles, the path is very similar to how Purdy earned staying power in San Francisco. He must be able to find open receivers on second and third reads. When the defense seems to hold the answers initially, Simpson must be able to dip into his mobility and processing to find creative answers outside of what the scheme presented to him.
These are the traits that McVay is betting on with Simpson. Purdy is a proof of concept. The key distinctions are that (1) Purdy had much more playing experience coming out of Iowa State and Simpson was a one-year starter with injuries diminishing his performance over the second half of the season, and (2) Simpson was a first-round talent while Purdy was on the fringe of getting drafted at all. In some ways Purdy should be Simpson’s floor. This could give the Rams an advantage over a divisional foe whenever Stafford decides to call it a career.
In terms of replacing Matthew Stafford, Sean McVay could have found the next reclamation project similar to how the Seahawks rejuvenated Sam Darnold’s career. He could have attempted to replicate the elite quarterbacks in the NFL in Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, or Lamar Jackson. Instead, McVay set his sights on Brock Purdy and told the league how he really feels about his NFC West rivals. This is how the Rams landed on Ty Simpson.
SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND - MAY 24: Joao Pedro of Chelsea reacts during the Premier League match between Sunderland and Chelsea at the Stadium of Light on May 24, 2026 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Not sure what’s a stronger word than cacophony, but that’s what greeted the teams as they walked out onto the pitch at the Stadium of Light. Glorious noise, glorious sunshine, and some glorious football — well, glorious from the home side at least.
It was far from glorious from the Blues, and the constant attack-v-defense exercise would eventually result in a conceded goal: a long ball from the goalkeeper catching out the left side of our defense (2-v-1), and Trey Hume producing a rather outstanding first-time finish to beat Robert Sánchez on 25 minutes.
A tame effort from Cole Palmer was all Chelsea had to show up to that point; and though we’d start to come forward a bit more after the goal, João Pedro’s header was the only time we threatened Robin Roefs’ goal. JP nodded wide unfortunately and we’d head into half time a goal down.
Coming back against the league’s fourth best defense was always going to take a bit effort … and to no one’s surprise given the way this season has gone, we’d produce very little in the way of any effort in the second half.
Sánchez made a great save to keep the deficit at one just moments after the restart, but not even he could prevent a ridiculous own goal from Malo Gusto to double Sunderland’s lead five minutes into the period.
And that goal loomed even larger five minutes later, when Palmer got a helping hand from Roefs, who pushed a long-range effort into the net rather than around it.
The goal galvanized Chelsea a little bit, but not nearly enough. And then Wesley Fofana got himself sent off for his latest bit of lazy defending — the second yellow may have been a bit harsh, especially with Levi Colwill also right there and doing just as much shirt-pulling, but why even put yourself in that situation when you’re the only player on a booking.
As we headed into the final 20 minutes of the game, results elsewhere meant that we would’ve needed just a goal (and a draw) to get into Europa League. Alas, those hopes would die a slow and extended death, as we endured nearly a quarter hour of stoppage time at the end. We never looked like scoring.
Thankfully, the match and this terrible season would eventually end.
Carefree.
Three changes from midweek, with João Pedro, Colwill, and Gusto coming back in and Liam Delap, Josh Acheampong, and Andrey Santos dropping to the bench
Also a formation change, trying a back-three once again — with slightly less inspiration than at other times
Chelsea finish tenth, on just 52 points — not quite as bad as 2022-23, but pretty close
Sunderland get 7th and Europa; Brighton lose 3-0, but finish 8th and get Conference League; Brentford manage just a draw against Liverpool and thus finish 9th
West Ham win but so do Spurs, so they avoid relegation and West Ham go down
Northwestern beat North Carolina 14-11 in the 2026 NCAA Women's Lacrosse National Championship Game.
The Wildcats were led by three goals each by Taylor Lapointe and Aditi Foster. Both were explosive but it was a scoreless forth period by UNC that was the difference
Northwestern and North Carolina met in last year's championship game with the Tar Heels coming out on top. A much different story this year.
Final
2026 NCAA Women's Lacrosse National Championship
1
2
3
4
Total
No. 2 North Carolina Tar Heels (19-1)
3
3
5
0
11
No. 1 Northwestern Wildcats (18-3)
4
2
3
5
14
North Carolina vs. Northwestern live box score NCAA women's lacrosse national championship
North Carolina Tar Heels
NO
Name
POS
G
A
SH
SOG
GB
17
KALEIGH HARDEN
M
0
0
0
0
1
16
ADDISON PATTILLO
A
3
0
5
5
1
15
ELIZA OSBURN
M
2
0
6
4
1
27
GRACEANN LEONARD
M
0
0
0
0
4
88
BETTY NELSON
GK
0
0
0
0
0
13
KATE LEVY
M
1
1
2
1
2
55
SOPHIE STRAKA
D
0
0
0
0
1
10
CHARLOTTE CORKINS
M
0
0
0
0
0
2
CHLOE HUMPHREY
A
2
2
11
5
1
8
SAM FORREST
D
0
0
0
0
0
6
CHARLOTTE RATHJEN
M
0
0
0
0
0
4
CAROLINE GODINE
A
0
2
2
0
2
23
EVA INGRILLI
2
1
4
3
0
21
REESE KING
0
0
0
0
0
20
AVERY ROBERTS
0
0
0
0
0
30
ELLA CABRERA
0
0
1
0
0
47
LEXI ZENK
0
0
0
0
1
39
SARAH GRESHAM
0
0
0
0
0
11
DARCY FELTER
1
1
4
3
1
3
KILEY MOTTICE
0
0
1
1
2
Total
11
7
36
22
17
Goalies
POS
MIN
SAVES
GA
BETTY NELSON
GK
30
4
6
Total
60
7
14
Northwestern Wildcats
NO
Name
POS
G
A
SH
SOG
GB
2
JAYLEN ROSGA
M
0
0
0
0
4
3
ADITI FOSTER
A
3
1
5
3
0
5
MCKENZIE BROWN
D
0
1
0
0
2
45
ANNABEL CHILD
M
0
0
0
0
3
28
TAYLOR LAPOINTE
M
3
0
3
3
0
33
LUCY MUNRO
A
0
0
0
0
0
31
MARY CARROLL
D
0
0
0
0
0
30
NOEL CUMBERLAND
M
0
0
0
0
1
23
JENIKA CUOCCO
GK
0
0
0
0
2
21
MADISON SMITH
M
0
0
0
0
1
20
MADDIE EPKE
A
1
1
4
3
0
25
MADISON TAYLOR
A
1
6
4
2
2
4
REESE HANSEN
0
0
0
0
0
6
ALEX BLAKE
0
0
0
0
0
7
LAUREN ARCHER
0
0
1
0
0
9
G MCCOLLESTER
4
0
4
4
0
11
ABBY LOCASCIO
2
0
2
2
0
13
KATE RATANAPROEKSA
0
0
5
4
0
42
HANNAH RUDOLPH
0
0
0
0
1
Total
14
9
28
21
16
Goalies
POS
MIN
SAVES
GA
JENIKA CUOCCO
GK
60
11
11
Total
60
11
11
How to watch North Carolina vs. Northwestern : 2026 NCAA women's lacrosse national championship
Date: Sunday, May 24
Time: Noon ET
TV: ESPN
Location: Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium (Evanston, Illinois)
May 17, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Boston Red Sox second baseman Marcelo Mayer (11) runs to the dugout after the end of the inning against the Atlanta Braves during the third inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images | Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
The Red Sox are looking to avoid a three-game sweep at the hands of the Minnesota Twins today on a rainy s Sunday. They’ll give the ball to Sonny Gray, who probably hopes the game is postponed so he can pitch on a day that is better described by his first name rather than his last. Pitchers don’t like wet baseballs. Anywho, Marcelo Mayer makes his 2026 debut at shortstop exactly one year after making his major league debut. In an ideal world, he mans that spot nearly every day for the next ten years. 1:35 pm scheduled first pitch on NESN and WEEI.
While the ACC might consider changing its name after expanding to the Pacific and Texas a couple of years ago, the decision to add California, Stanford, and SMU to the mix has clearly paid off from a revenue standpoint.
According to a recent report by Brian Murphy of WRAL, the ACC notched a 16% increase in revenue for the first academic year to include California, Stanford, and SMU. The league’s revenues jumped from $711.3 million in the year ending in June 2024 to $826.5 million in the year ending in June 2025.
As expected, the lion’s share of the revenue increases came from expanding ACC Network’s in-market footprint into California and Texas. Under the distribution agreements between ESPN, which owns ACC Network, and cable and satellite companies, distributors pay per-subscriber rates that are several times higher for ACC Network when the channel is being distributed to subscribers within the market of an ACC school. By adding two teams in California and a team in Texas, the ACC began earning in-market rates in those states, greatly expanding the footprint of pay-TV subscribers being charged the higher fees.
Per WRAL, the ACC’s television revenue jumped by more than $100 million year-over-year — from $487 million to $588.8 million — after adding the western schools.
In total, the ACC distributed $736.6 million to its 18 member schools. That figure is still substantially below both the SEC and Big Ten, which each distributed over $1 billion to its schools this year, but perhaps isn’t as large a gap as one would expect given the disparity in media rights agreements between the ACC and the Power-2 conferences.
The ACC is still operating under a media rights deal implemented in 2016 which, before expanding, paid the conference an average of $240 million annually over its 20-year term. By comparison, the Big Ten is bringing in an average of over $1 billion per year under its set of media agreements, and the SEC is earning about $710 million per year. Given that context, the ACC’s ability to payout its schools at about 75% of the level that the Big Ten and SEC are can be seen as an unlikely success.
For the first time, the ACC implemented its success initiative that provides unequal revenue distribution based on certain performance-based benchmarks in football and men’s basketball. Such benchmarks include participation in the College Football Playoff, or finishing in the CFP Top 25. Part of the revenue is also distributed based off of television ratings, with more money going to schools that attract larger television audiences.
Clemson led the conference with a $55.1 million payout, with the average payout for schools receiving a full share clocking in at $47.1 million. Cal and Stanford, who agreed to reduced shares when joining the conference, received $22.9 million and $19.5 million, respectively. SMU agreed to forego its entire media rights payout for the first several years of membership, but was awarded $17 million for its CFP berth.
After sweeping a doubleheader on Saturday, the Oregon Ducks are rolling with momentum into the program's first Big Ten Tournament championship game, taking on top-ranked UCLA at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha, Nebraska.
The Ducks were forced to play two yesterday after rain delays pushed their quarterfinal matchup against Washington to early Saturday morning. That didn't faze the Ducks, however, as they blasted a season-high five home runs and slugged their way to a 9-4 victory over the rival Huskies.
Oregon dethroned last year's tournament champion by crushing Nebraska 8-0 in the semifinal in front of the Cornhuskers' own crowd. Will Sanford was on cruise control on the mound, allowing just two hits and striking out eight over six scoreless innings.
UCLA needed walk-off hits to earn victories in the quarterfinal against Purdue and the semifinal against USC. The Ducks and Bruins played a contentious series in Los Angeles a couple of weeks ago, and it wouldn't be shocking to see that same fiery play translate to the field again today. Although UCLA took the series, Oregon handed the Bruins their first conference loss of the season.
Miles Gosztola will get the ball for the Ducks with the conference championship on the line. He turned in one of his best outings of the season against UCLA two weeks ago, tallying a season-high nine strikeouts and allowing just two runs over 5 ⅓ innings on the mound.
UCLA will roll with Landon Stump to start the game. The Ducks tagged the junior pitcher for a run earlier this season and ran him from the game after just 2 ⅔ innings.
Oregon mashed eight home runs in yesterday's doubleheader, and they will need to continue the slugging success at the plate to bring home a Big Ten title. Brayden Jaksa hit a pair of home runs on Saturday and led the way as the Ducks collected 11 extra-base hits.
Follow along with live inning-by-inning updates as the Ducks take on the Bruins in Omaha in the Big Ten Tournament championship game. First pitch is scheduled for noon PST, and the game will air live on Big Ten Network.
Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.
Folds of Honor founder Dan Rooney’s favorite saying is that freedom isn’t free.
United States Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Michael Lammey is living proof. He honorably served his country for over nine years. But on Dec. 1, 2006, while aboard the U.S.S. Frank Cable in Guam, he was injured when a damaged boiler exploded, filling the room with 700-degree steam. He sustained third-degree burns on 56 percent of his body. He spent 4 ½ years undergoing multiple surgeries and a lengthy process of healing.
“I lost my profession; I lost my whole sense of self. It was a big thing that I had to rehabilitate,” he said, “not just my body but my mind.”
When he was medically retired, Lammey suddenly had all this free time on his hands. “I heard that retired people played golf, so, I went to Walmart and bought a driver and I went to the driving range and started trying to crush golf balls,” said Lammey, who wears two batting-cage style gloves when he plays because of the damage to his skin.
During his recovery process, his three daughters – Francine, Alexis and Mackenzie, began attending a Catholic private school.
“We didn’t know how we were going to keep the kids in school,” he recalled. “My wife, Rose, went on a retreat for caregivers and they mentioned Folds of Honor, and we looked it up on online and applied and were accepted and able to keep the kids in school, which was awesome.”
Francine is currently following in her father’s footsteps, serving in the Navy. Alexis and Mackenzie are both Folds of Honor scholarship recipients. So, too, is Rose, underscoring the profound impact Folds of Honor has had on their family. Since its founding in 2007, Folds of Honor has awarded nearly 73,000 educational scholarships totaling more than $340 million.
“This is such a big blessing for us, and I wanted to do something to say thanks,” Lammey said.
Since 2019, he has been a member of the Folds of Honor Speaker’s Bureau, turning his life-changing experience into a source of hope and inspiration for others.
Golf facilities around the country are celebrating Patriot Golf Days, recognized annually throughout the month of May. Over the past 19 years, golf clubs nationwide have formed impactful partnerships with Folds of Honor, contributing to the transformative work of providing educational scholarships for the families of our brave military and first responders.
“There’s still thousands of other people that apply that there isn’t enough money to fund those scholarships,” Lammey said. “We need to keep getting the word out and let more people know the good work that Folds of Honor does so we can get all the rest of these families supported as well.”
On Memorial Day weekend, Lammey said it is time to reflect on the sacrifices that he and so many others made for their country. And a reminder that freedom isn’t free.
Adam Schupak is a senior writer for Golfweek, covering the PGA Tour.
Brighton & Hove Albion 0-3 Manchester United: Match Report
Manchester United beat Brighton & Hove ALbion 3-0 in their final game of the 2025/26 Premier League season, concluding the campaign in brilliant style.
Having been confirmed as the permanent head coach on Friday, Michael Carrick named a slightly rotated side for the contest.
Senne Lammens started in goal with a back-four of Noussair Mazraoui, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw ahead of him.
Carrick had confirmed that Casemiro wouldn’t play against Brighton, so Kobbie Mainoo was given the nod as United’s deepest lying-midfielder, forming the pivot with Mason Mount. Bruno Fernandes assumed his preferred playmaking role.
Bryan Mbeumo was tasked with leading the line, with Patrick Dorgu and Amad flanking him on either side.
First half
With a Champions League place at stake, Brighton began as the far more assertive side, dominating possession and looking to keep United pinned back in their own half. The hosts applied a high press in an effort to force Lammens and his defenders into errors, but United had an answer for every challenge thrown their way.
Brighton’s first crack at goal came inside 12 minutes as their Player of the Season, Ferdi Kadıoğlu, attempted a powerful shot from inside the box, but he couldn’t keep it under control and it flew well over the bar.
United responded through Mount five minutes later as the England international delivered a dangerous low cross inside the box. Bart Verbruggen came out of his line to claim the ball.
Maxim De Cuyper then fashioned some space in front of Noussair Mazraoui to send a shot just inches wide of the post.
There was an injury scare for United at the half-hour mark when Luke Shaw went down after some contact, but he managed to pick himself up and continue.
The Red Devils finally broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute through Dorgu, who got on the end of a sublime corner-kick delivery from Fernandes to head home. The assist means that Fernandes has now surpassed Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne to register the most assists in a single Premier League season (21).
The goal galvanised United and a minute later, Shaw came close to doubling the lead with a powerful attempt, but he couldn’t quite hit the target. United maintained their pressure and Mbeumo was played into a promising position, but the Cameroonian was just dispossessed as he prepared to pull the trigger.
Mainoo produced a moment of magic when he dribbled past a sea of bodies and broke into the box, but there was no one to cross the ball to and the chance dissipated.
United finally extended their lead in the 44th minute through Mbeumo, who finished off a brilliant move. Mount and Amad played crucial roles, with Amad providing the assist.
Mainoo was booked in the first-half added time.
Second half
United picked up where they left off, enjoying a dream start to the second half. Fernandes added a third with a stunning finish after being sent through by Dorgu.
The linesman had initially ruled it out for offside but the goal was restored after a VAR check.
The third goal prompted United to lay siege to Brighton’s goal and pepper it with chances. In the 51st minute, Mbeumo flicked the ball to Dorgu, who covered ground brilliantly to get there, but Verbruggen thwarted him with a save.
Amad also wanted in on the party, firing a good shot from the edge of the area. Verbruggen produced another fine save to keep it out and keep the scoreline respectable for the Seagulls. Dorgu was handed another opportunity to double his tally, but again, he found an inspired Verbruggen impossible to beat.
Carrick made his first change in the 61st minute, taking off Dorgu and bringing on Shea Lacey in his place.
With the win virtually in the bag, United took control and neutralised Brighton’s threat. The visitors held the ball effectively and enjoyed the lion’s share of possession.
Carrick made three more changes in the 73rd minute. The United boss took off Mbeumo, Mount and Mazraoui and replaced them with Joshua Zirkzee, Tyler Fletcher and Leny Yoro.
Maguire drove into the box in the 76th minute looking to add to the tally but his cross failed to locate a teammate. Lacey then attempted to curl an effort on goal, though it didn’t trouble Verbruggen unduly.
Tyrell Malacia was introduced in the 82nd minute for his final United appearance.
Fernandes almost had his 22nd assist of the season when he set up Yoro, but the Frenchman’s header hit the crossbar.
But United were well worth all three points at the Amex to bring the curtain down on a very positive season that was turned around by Carrick’s arrival at the start of the year.
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - SEPTEMBER 28: Chris Jones #95 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates after making a sack during an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images
For instance, in 2025, we were bullish on the pass rush and set the team’s sack total at 49, despite the Chiefs coming off a 2024 season in which they generated only 39 sacks. Instead of taking the big step forward we expected, Kansas City’s pass rush took another step back, securing just 33 sacks in 2025.
In fact, the only line the Chiefs exceeded expectations on was the metric that actually matters at the end of the day — points allowed per game. We set the line at 20 points per game, and the Chiefs came in under at 19.3.
Last season, we did our best to ground our predictions in historical data, but the outcome was less than accurate, so this year I’m following a stronger metric: my gut and the team’s vibe.
So let’s dive in and see where we land on how the defense will do this year.
Sacks
Chris Jones led the team in sacks in 2025 with seven. That pretty much tells you everything you need to know about this team’s pass rush last year. Modern wisdom would say that, with the added investment in the pass rush in the draft (selecting defensive linemen in both the first and second rounds), coupled with the extremely low 2025 number, it will be hard for the Chiefs to regress any further than the team did last year.
But still, nothing suggests a big jump in 2026. It’s still clear how rookie edge rusher R Mason Thomas fits in with what the Chiefs want to do on defense, and defensive tackle Peter Woods needs to show more consistency to be more than an inconsistent player who flashes and then disappears for long stretches of time.
Chris Jones needs more help on the interior, and George Karlaftis needs someone who can set the edge opposite of him and keep containment so he doesn’t have to try to chase the QB all over the yard.
So the biggest wildcards heading into this season for me are edge rusher Ashton Gillotte and defensive tackle Omarr Norman Lot. If each of these guys can give you even four to five sacks this year, then you have a chance at getting enough on the whole to see a bump of 10 sacks in the numbers this season.
And call me a homer, but I think it could happen.
Projected sacks: 43
My take: Over
The Chiefs haven’t topped 40 sacks in a season since 2023. That’s a bad stat. And although I don’t think this team will suddenly lead the league in sacks, it’s hard to invest as much as the Chiefs have in the pass rush and not see at least some results.
Interceptions
Former Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie may have been an All-Pro, but he was far from a turnover machine. On the contrary, in his final season at California, cornerback Nohl Williams led all of college football in interceptions. Now entering his second season in the league, the Chiefs will be counting on him to step up and give them similar numbers at the pro level.
The Chiefs also traded up in the first round to select cornerback Mansoor Delane with the sixth overall selection. Delane profiles as a set-and-forget lockdown corner. The Chiefs also selected cornerback Jadon Canady in the fourth round to fortify their secondary, and brought in safety Alohi Gilman via free agency. All things considered, I feel like the Chiefs have to top their 2025 number of 10 interceptions.
Projected interceptions: 12
My take: Over
I think the Chiefs’ recent investment in the secondary pays dividends this year, as we see the birth of Kansas City’s “no-fly zone.” I think we will remember this as one of the Chiefs better secondaries in years to come.
Forced fumbles
Forced Fumbles are probably one of the most overlooked skills in football, and while they are completely preventable, learning how to punch the ball out or strip the ball from the quarterback is a skill that is more than just dumb luck.
The Chiefs weren’t great at this in 2025, forcing only seven fumbles over the course of the year. And without evidence that Kansas City has made this a point of emphasis this season, it’s hard to predict the unit will do any better than last season.
Projected forced fumbles: 7
My take: Push
Of all the predictions so far, this is the one that has the greatest ability to be flipped completely. This team could easily have five more forced fumbles, and it wouldn’t surprise me.
Defensive touchdowns
This one feels like a flip of the coin. There is a lot that has to go right for a team to score a defensive touchdown. It’s probably why the Chiefs didn’t have any in 2025.
Projected defensive touchdowns: 1
My take: Push
You never know when it’s going to happen, or if it’s going to happen, but I feel like it has to happen at least once this season.
Points allowed per game
In 2025, the Chiefs held opponents to 19.3 points per game, despite their sack and interception numbers regressing. It feels like 2026 is the tipping point. The 2025 season was fluky in many ways, and how the team performs in 2026 will set the tone for the defense over the next couple of years.
Projected points allowed per game: 19.3
My take: Under
If it’s one thing the Chiefs have been good at the last couple of years, it’s keeping opposing teams out of their endzone. I’m taking the under.
West Ham are minutes away from being relegated from the Premier League despite earning a 3-0 win over Leeds, as rivals Tottenham are beating Everton and are set to end the Hammers’ 15 years in the top flight.
Taty Castellanos headed home from Jarrod Bowen’s corner after the hour mark in a nervy encounter, having failed to convert chances either side of half time, but it was redundant as long as Spurs preserved their priceless lead over the Toffees.
Jarrod Bowen and Callum Wilson struck late in the second half to seal the victory, but it wasn’t enough for the Hammers to remain in the division with Roberto De Zerbi’s side set to avoid a first relegation from the top division in 49 years.
As it happened
West Ham’s nervy opening saw Brendon Aaronson afforded far too much space 30 yards out before Thomas Soucek intervened, before an unmarked Dominic Calvert-Lewin failed to steer James Justin’s wayward shot towards goal seven minutes in.
But the Hammers soon settled and were looking the more likely to score what would be a priceless goal, as Karl Darlow cheaply gave the ball away kicking it against his standing leg and had to palm aside Matheus Fernandes’ effort from distance.
Calvert-Lewin would have a second chance to put Leeds in front on 35 minutes only to drive it into a defender from inside the penalty area, as the hosts’ nerves resurfaced at the London Stadium.
News was soon spreading around the ground that Joao Palinha had put rivals Tottenham in front against Everton, rendering whatever the Hammers could conjure up after the break irrelevant in the relegation picture.
Callum Wilson was introduced at half-time by Nuno Espirito Santo to try and increase his team’s firepower up front, desperate for a goal that would at the time only haul them to the brink of safety with their local rivals ahead in their match.
And the Englishman was involved right from the off, teeing up Taty Castellanos as the home faithful held its breath, only for the Argentine to lose his feet right before taking aim at full stretch and the shot rolled into the arms of Darlow.
Castellanos was gifted another chance by Ao Tanaka getting in the way of Pascal Struijk’s pass back to his goalkeeper, but fired over from a tight angle on the right as time began to run out for the Hammers to grab a goal.
And it would come with just over 20 minutes remaining when West Ham’s number 11 rose highest to head Jarrod Bowen’s corner past Darlow and into the net, to give themselves the best chance of staying up and handing over to Spurs.
Darlow denied Wilson the third for the Hammers as Leeds cheaply gave the ball away and looked as though they had surrendered the match with two minutes left of added time, as the result puts the hosts on the brink of relegation.
West Ham analysis: slow start to season hurts Hammers as proud run almost at an end
Prior to the final day, West Ham were the proud holders of the longest stint in the Premier League for a team promoted via the Championship playoffs.
And they did their part in trying to extend their 15-year stay in England’s top division, doing well to survive a nervy first half and head into the break level with Leeds.
The pressure was all on them with Daniel Farke’s men already safe, and Taty Castellanos held his own nerve to finally convert after failing to do so on two prior occasions.
But his and Bowen’s strikes weren’t enough for the Hammers, as Spurs were in control of their own destiny and had a priceless lead courtesy of loan signing Joao Palhinha’s goal at a ground that has seen as few as two victories over the course of the season.
West Ham were exactly where they’ve now ended the season at the halfway stage, collecting just three wins and 14 points from 19 matches while Spurs, who ended as their main rivals in the fight to beat the drop, were 12th under Thomas Frank.
Particularly damaging was a 2-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest, also at the London Stadium, to start the new year, a result that began the Trees’ gradual rise away from the bottom three.
Bowen drilled home the winner in typical Bowen fashion, released by an incisive through ball by Matheus Fernandes and keeping his composure to the right of goal as he broke into the penalty area – both of whom now more likely than ever to leave the club in the summer.
While many Hammers fans will look to VAR ruling out what would’ve been the winner against champions Arsenal for a foul on David Raya, it was the slow start that will have ultimately decided their fate of second tier football next season.
Brighton & Hove Albion 0-3 Manchester United: Player Ratings
Manchester United beat Brighton 3-0 in their final game of the 2025/26 Premier League season. Here are our player ratings from the game.
(A score of 6 is around average)
Ratings
Senne Lammens 7 – Had surprisingly little to do, but was excellent when called upon.
Noussair Mazraoui 7 – Somehow the defence always seems a little more solid when he’s playing. Reads the game well and offers calm composure on and off the ball. His biggest problem seems to be his propensity to get injured easily.
Harry Maguire 6.5 – Didn’t put a foot wrong until the hour mark, when he gave away a clumsy and needless foul that could have been costly.
Lisandro Martinez 7 – Flawless. His passing is a big asset to the team.
Luke Shaw 6.5 – Another good showing to complete a superb all-round defensive effort.
Mason Mount 6.5 – A couple of decent touches, was neat and tidy, but did not impose himself enough on the game.
Kobbie Mainoo 7.5 – Bossed the midfield. Went on a couple of mazy runs in the box that deserved more reward. So hard to wrestle off the ball.
Bruno Fernandes 9 – Another masterclass. He seems to have the ability to see where every player is on the pitch even with his back to goal. Goal and assist – that’s if the dubious goals panel doesn’t get involved.
Amad 7.5 – His best outing since AFCON and a good assist to cap it off.
Patrick Dorgu 8.5 – A slow start but came into his own with a superb headed goal and assist and all-round energetic performance. Caused havoc in the Brighton defence.
Bryan Mbeumo 7 – An easy tap-in making it 11 for the season, he’s not finished the campaign on top form but still played his part in this game.
Substitutes
Shea Lacey 6 – Had little impact. Tried a curler from the edge of the box but it was a bit feeble.
Josh Zirkzee 6 – Had little impact.
Tyler Fletcher 6.5 – Slotted in well, looked comfortable in central midfield.
Leny Yoro 6.5 – A decent cameo at right-back. Good last-ditch tackle at the death.
Tyrell Malacia 6.5 – Did OK in what will be his last match in a United shirt.
NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - MAY 09: UFC President and CEO Dana White speaks with media after the UFC 328 event at Prudential Center on May 09, 2026 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Michelle Farsi/Zuffa LLC)
The UFC and Dana White got a lot of heat online when they announced the long-awaited return of Conor McGregor at UFC 329 via an Instagram Live video at the exact moment that former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou began his walkout to fight on MVP MMA’s first card.
Back in the day, the UFC used to counter-program events like MVP MMA ruthlessly. Back in 2008, the UFC booked an Anderson Silva fight on SpikeTV for free to counter Affliction MMA’s first big pay-per-view. These days, the promotion doesn’t respect it’s competition enough to bother with such behavior. But it sure seemed like an attempt to suck the oxygen out of Francis Ngannou’s fight that McGregor’s return was announced just as Big Fran made his walk.
“Not a coincidence, I had a f–king fight here that night,” White told Fred Talks Fighting. “Anyone who thinks I gave a s–t what was going on anywhere else was out of their minds. We announced it as soon as we got it done and we were in the middle of our event.”
“I could give a f–k what those guys were doing, are you kidding me?” White concluded.
If the UFC was trying to take some shine off Ngannou’s fight at MVP MMA 1, it didn’t work. If anything, announcing McGregor’s return during a generic Instagram Live announcement from Dana White made the return of “The Notorious” seem less impactful. Maybe way back in the day when White first started doing Instagram Live announcements, it felt like the ink wasn’t dry on freshly signed contracts and we were getting special news.
These days? White can’t do the announcements without a printout in front of him, and he still messed up Gable Steveson’s name while reading the UFC 329 announcement. Fans wondered why there was no big event trailer … not even an AI one! Nothing from McGregor but a few tweets. No presser, no interview on a major outlet. Just a suspiciously timed Instagram Live video.
If it was at least a petty jab at MVP MMA, at least there’d be some reason to undersell McGregor’s return. As it stands, it’s just more lazy par for the course from the comfortable giant untouchable atop the MMA mountain.
Joe Rogan has his eye on a heavyweight outside the UFC who he believes could make a real impact.
Rogan, who has spent years calling fights for the promotion, knows what top-tier talent looks like, especially in a division that’s seen better days.
The heavyweight scene isn’t what it once was, with names like Stipe Miocic, Cain Velasquez, Fabricio Werdum and Brock Lesnar now part of the past.
The landscape is quite different these days. Miocic remains under contract but hasn’t fought since losing to Ngannou in March 2021. Werdum retired after his last fight in 2021.
Velasquez hasn’t competed since 2019 due to legal issues and injuries. Lesnar returned to WWE full-time after leaving MMA behind.
The division hasn’t seen much fresh blood lately, either. Jon Jones is still recovering from an injury sustained while preparing for his bout with Miocic last year, and Tom Aspinall continues to defend the interim title in Jones’ absence.
Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty Images
Joe Rogan backs Sergey Bilostenniy after KO win over former Francis Ngannou opponent Renan Ferreira
With 15 wins from 19 fights, Bilostenniy has picked up five victories from his last six appearances across both PFL and Bellator. The only loss in that stretch came against Valentin Moldavsky, a former interim Bellator heavyweight champion.
The Russian made headlines earlier this month with a knockout of Renan Ferreira at PFL Sioux Falls, landing a huge right hand to finish the fight. The Brazilian had previously faced Francis Ngannou and walked away without a victory.
“Who’s that guy who just knocked out Renan Ferreira? That guy is legit,” Rogan said. “Him vs anybody is interesting. That guy is legit. I watched that Ferreira fight and I was like, holy.”
Rogan added: “He moves like Fedor (Emelianenko) too. He trained with Fedor? That is interesting. He just looked so dominant throughout the fight, man, right away.
The UFC commentator also said: “This kid is very, very legit. The speed,” he continued. “The world needs another big heavyweight, man, and it’s awesome that this guy exists. That guy can compete with anybody.”
Ferreira lost three straight fights – starting with his stoppage defeat to Ngannou in the first round of the former UFC champion’s lone PFL appearance.
Meanwhile, Bilostenniy has emerged as one of the top heavyweights outside MMA’s main promotion and has trained under Red Devil Sport Club – an academy led by Emelianenko himself – considered by many as the greatest heavyweight fighter ever.
BARCELONA, SPAIN - APRIL 11: Ferran Torres of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team's first goal with Lamine Yamal during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and RCD Espanyol de Barcelona at Spotify Camp Nou on April 11, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) | Getty Images
La Liga’s 2025-26 season is officially over which means individual awards are now being handed out to some of the division’s best players.
Barcelona have already been crowned champions again, while Joan Garcia has won the Zamora Trophy given to the goalkeeper with the lowest goals-to-games ratio.
Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres have also been handed an award, taking home the Zarra Trophy as the top Spanish goalscorers in La Liga.
Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres will share the 2025/26 Zarra Trophy, awarded to the top national goalscorer in La Liga. 🏆 pic.twitter.com/XDljhvGuLt
Torres ended the campaign with 16 goals from 33 La Liga outings, while Yamal finished with the same amount of goals from 28 appearances in the Spanish top flight.
The Barcelona stars ended the season just above Real Sociedad forward Mikel Oyarzabal (15) and Celta Vigo’s Borja Iglesias (14) as the top Spanish scorers in La Liga.
Both Ferran and Yamal will now shortly head to the World Cup with Spain and will be eyeing more silverware. Luis de la Fuente’s side are one of the big favorites for glory at this summer’s tournament.
The boxing industry, and its media, saw Rico Verhoeven’s involvement and arrival in Egypt as little more than a punchline ahead of Saturday’s WBC heavyweight title fight. The challenger, a 37-year-old veteran from another discipline, was largely unknown among Queensberry rules purists, and was treated as such throughout the promotion.
Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury, Murat Gassiev and Mairis Briedis all lost to Oleksandr Usyk, one of the most respected boxing champions of the past decade — some of them twice. Verhoeven, as good as he may be with his kicks, would have no chance against the pound-for-pound staple with only punching allowed. And the event, though staged in a spectacular setting by the side of the Pyramids of Giza, was little more than a circus — nothing but the latest in a long line of self-inflicted embarrassments, many thought, akin to Misfits, Jake Paul, and any other upstart fight firm that has grand intentions but ends up vomiting crossover fights while proclaiming them as something else.
Many were wrong.
On Saturday night, Verhoeven refused to accept that status. With his busy, herky-jerky fists, extraordinary physique, and brutal one-two moves, Verhoeven put Usyk — and the sport of boxing itself — into uncomfortable positions from the opening bell.
Rico Verhoeven stunned Oleksandr Usyk from the opening round Saturday in Egypt.
Mark Robinson via Getty Images
There tends to be a granting of the benefit of the doubt with boxers like Usyk and fellow Ukrainian Vasiliy Lomachenko, suggesting fighters like this simply “download the data” before really getting themselves going. This prevents credit from being given where it’s due, and for the case of Verhoeven, Usyk was simply second-best from the opening round toward the middle stages of the fight and beyond.
Verhoeven is listed at 6-foot-5 and so has two inches in height over Usyk, an additional half-inch in reach, and 25 pounds in weight — all of which he used in the opening rounds, roughing the champion up, even driving him back to the ropes and punching while in the clinch. Though Usyk had his moments, they were few and far between when compared to Verhoeven, who landed a thudding right hand over and over to keep the long-reigning king neutralized from the outside, where he struggled to assert himself in the fashion the kickboxer did.
Fights may be judged on paper, but they are won in the ring.
And so, if Usyk really were downloading data, he should have used that knowledge before the halfway point when Verhoeven, in the ring — not on-paper — should at that point have been well ahead, if the scoring were fair and actually reflective of the action.
But he never did.
Usyk looked legitimately lost.
Excuses will be made. He’s 39 years old and perhaps he really did get old overnight.
But Verhoeven entered the ring as a one-fight boxing novice, and was on the path to shaking up combat sports history with his unorthodox fighting style.
He deserved more than the scorecards alone suggested at the end.
Two of the three judges, Manuel Oliver Palomo and Fabian Guggenheim, somehow had the fight level after 10 rounds. Only Pasquale Procopio had Verhoeven ahead 96-94.
Rico Verhoeven was only ahead on one judge's scorecard entering the 11th round and even on the other two 😲
Considering the way in which Verhoeven hunched over and boxed smaller than his size, he was always vulnerable to an uppercut. And sure enough, the fight-changing shot came with less than 30 seconds remaining in the 11th round — a knockdown that, per the scoring up until that point, would have granted Usyk a near-insurmountable lead had the fight been allowed to go the distance. Yet at the end of the 11th, with Usyk spamming shots at Verhoeven — and with the bell already rung and the DJ already lining up the next track — referee Mark Lyson waved the fight off.
It should not have even been called. The round was already over.
But, in the eyes of Lyson alone, Verhoeven needed withdrawing from the fight — a championship one, with the world watching, and with many seeing a surprisingly competitive bout that could, clearly, have continued.
Verhoeven was robbed.
“It was an early stoppage,” he said simply after the fight.
Uncrowned’s Ariel Helwani called it all “a disgrace.”
Lyson has a history of controversial decision-making. He counted out Charlie Edwards after Julio Cesar Martinez hit him while taking a knee on the floor in 2019. WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman overruled the decision there and then, declaring it a no-contest.
Three years later, Lyson stopped Dillian Whyte when Tyson Fury seemingly had pushed him. Whyte should have been granted time to recover but instead had to deal with an unjust finish.
Four years later, it was Verhoeven forced to deal with the consequences of Lyson’s unnecessary involvement.
Had the Dutchman been permitted to continue, the result he deserved is not one that would have come, considering the scorecards. It was as if the sport’s golden boy, Usyk, was always destined to leave Egypt with the crown jewels, regardless of what played out in the ring.
For Texas Tech and Florida softball, this is it. One final game with the winner advancing and the other eliminated. The winner of Sunday's Game 3 of the Gainesville Super Regional will be headed to Oklahoma City for the Women's College World Series.
The Red Raiders will be looking to play in the WCWS for a second consecutive year behind NiJaree Canady, who's a two-time National Player of the Year.
First pitch will be at noon ET from Gainesville's Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium.
*Game 3 of the Gainesville Super Regional between Florida and Texas Tech softball is in a weather delay starting at 1:02 p.m. ET. The contest is scheduled to resume at 2:55 p.m. ET.
2026 NCAA Softball Super Regionals
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Texas Tech vs. Florida live box score NCAA Softball Super Regional
The Kansas City Royals have had a very disappointing 2026 season so far. While Bobby Witt Jr. might be putting together an MVP-caliber season, the rest of the team is struggling mightily.
They're 21-31 on the season, and nine games behind the Cleveland Guardians for the AL Central lead. But simply avoiding winding up as trade deadline sellers is going to be a difficult task this season.
USA Today's Bob Nightengale, while giving the Royals a lousy, bus deserved, "F" grade for their 2026 season, warned that the Royals might not have a choice but to trade away a pair of All-Star pitchers at this year's deadline.
Royals might have no choice but to trade 2 All-Star pitchers
"The season has badly unraveled, and unless their fate dramatically changes, they could have no choice but to trade starters Michael Wacha and Seth Lugo at the deadline. And rebuild. Once again," Nightengale writes.
The Royals winding up as sellers at this year's deadline would mean things went very wrong, but so far, through the first 52 games of the season, that's exactly what's happened.
At 21-31, the Royals are well outside of the playoff hunt, and unless they can turn things around quickly, a sell-off at the deadline is very possible for this team.
If they do sell, starting pitchers Seth Lugo and Michael Wacha, both All-Stars in their careers, might have to be traded.
Lugo is 36 years old and is under contract through the 2027 season on a $46 million deal with a club option for 2028. They don't have to trade him, but they might not be able to get better value than they could right now for Lugo.
Wacha is very similar, as he's also under contract through the 2027 season on a $51 million deal with a club option in 2028. He also doesn't have to be traded, but this year might be the best time to recoup the most value out of Wacha.
Lugo has a 3.68 ERA this season, while Wacha has a 2.70 ERA. Both would fetch fairly strong returns at the 2026 trade deadline, especially if they maintain their strong pace from now until the August 3rd deadline day.
Nightengale writing that the Royals might not have a choice but to trade Wacha and Lugo is a little bit of an exaggeration, but it might be the best path forward, to have a soft reset, or rebuild, to plan for a future with younger and better players.
While the Indy 500 finally arrives on Sunday, weather could factor into the plans at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Forecasts have shown the potential for some rain in recent days. Over the years, bad weather has resulted in interrupted or postponed races at "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing."
With rain possible on Sunday afternoon in Indianapolis, Mother Nature could have an impact on the 2026 results as well.
Here's the latest on the weather at the 2026 Indy 500.
12:55 p.m. — The Indy 500 is underway, as rain has held off for the time being. They're 10 laps in at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, but weather could factor in throughout the afternoon.
11:37 a.m. — For now, the storms in Indiana are staying out of the way. With the race approaching, rain is expected at some point in the day in Indianapolis, but it's mostly a matter of when. On-and-off light rain seems to be a strong possibility.
The latest from Accuweather is around a 66% chance of light rainfall over the next three hours, then an additional 69% chance of a thunderstorm around 4 p.m. But there could be enough dry spots in the afternoon to get the race in, especially with lighter rain.
INDY 500: Alright, here we go. A few light, spotty showers are possible for the first part of the day today. We could see some dry windows long enough to run the Indianapolis 500. More showers will develop later this afternoon between 3 and 4 pm. None of the thunderstorms are… pic.twitter.com/zJ7sSroq8k
#indy500 update - we cont to keep showers south of that line and it needs to hold. IF we get no pop-ups & rain stays south then we wait on the front to the west. Staying cautiously optimistic and cheering on lap 101. @ims cc @Indycar_Wxman@raceweatherpic.twitter.com/9C4m0LLMXE
Sunday's forecast as of May 24 (11:44 a.m. ET): "A slight chance of showers before 2pm, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 2pm and 5pm, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 5pm. Cloudy, with a high near 74. West southwest wind around 6 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms."
WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 11: A view of the Atlanta Braves logo on a baseball cap during the game against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on September 11, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)
Getty Images
The Atlanta Braves have surged to the top of the Major League Baseball standings thanks to a surprisingly strong roster in multiple facets.
Standout players in the batting order, rotation and bullpen have all helped drive perhaps the most surprising success story of the season so far.
“First baseman Matt Olson is an MVP candidate,” Bob Nightengale wrote for USA Today. “Chris Sale could win another Cy Young. Michael Harris is having a comeback year. Catcher Drake Baldwin is a star. Relievers Robert Suarez and Raisel Iglesias have been lights out. And infielder Mauricio Dubon and DH Dom Smith, cheap offseason pickups, are unsung heroes.”
Perhaps the least surprising aspect of the surge has been the bullpen, though, given that the team reloaded it with star talent during the offseason. After signing Suarez as a free agent and re-signing Iglesias, the Braves signaled that a strong relief corps was a priority.
And that is fairly typical for the franchise, with recent stars like Craig Kimbrel and Kenley Jansen playing high-leverage roles.
Atlanta Braves’ Former Pitcher Nick Anderson Ends All-MLB Career
Now, as the team remerges as a threat in the National League, it has received news that a former standout reliever has decided to retire.
“Veteran reliever Nick Anderson, who has pitched well at Triple-A for the A’s, has retired, according to his agent, Matt Gaeta,” ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported on X, formerly Twitter. “Anderson, 35, submitted the paperwork (on Saturday). Anderson was a first-team All-MLB reliever In 2020 and threw 173 innings over six big league seasons.”
Braves fans will recall that Anderson was a member of the team in 2023, when he logged a 3.57 ERA with 36 strikeouts in 35 total games.
Anderson signed a one-year split contract with the Braves shortly before that season began and was optioned to Triple-A ahead of Opening Day. But after Iglesias was placed on the injured list before the season started, though, Anderson was placed on the big-league roster.
However, Anderson went down with an injury himself after his first 35 games and that ended up marking the end of his tenure with the Braves. In the next offseason, he was traded to the Kansas City Royals for cash considerations.
Former Atlanta Braves Pitcher Nick Anderson Retires After Just 15 Games
Anderson’s All-MLB nod came for his 2020 campaign with the Tampa Bay Rays, which shortened for all teams due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Anderson went on to pitch for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Baltimore Orioles, St. Louis Cardinals, Colorado Rockies and Seattle Mariners organizations before joining the Athletics. He had a strong 2.16 ERA in 15 games this season before deciding to end his career entirely.
It was not immediately clear what Anderson’s next career might be, but he seems to have plenty of big-league experience to share with younger players if he is interested in coaching.
This article was originally published on Forbes.com
The Saints may be willing to part ways with Alvin Kamara, who the team has not yet fully committed to for the 2026 campaign.
Kamara is coming off a down, injury-plagued season, the Saints signed Travis Etienne to a big-money deal, and general manager Mickey Loomis continues to leaves Kamara's future with the team up in the air.
"We're just trying to see how he's going to fit on our roster," Loomis said of the veteran running back. "Obviously there's a resource management element to it. We'll get to that over the next week or two."
To his credit, Kamara has not complained at all about the addition of Etienne and he appears set to play out the final year of his contract.
“I think a lot of people be thinking there’s a beef or something when moves like this happen,” Kamara said. “It’s like, shoot, I couldn’t be happier. One, my boy got paid, and two, ain’t nothing but some help in the backfield. That’s the name of the game. One person can’t do it by themselves. I’m cool with it. Whichever direction that we can take it, I’m with it. I haven’t had too much a chance to talk to him, but definitely excited that he’s got a fleur-de-lis on his helmet, and he got paid.”
On the flip side, it's pretty clear the Saints are not sold on him staying, at least with his contract as is, so a trade simply cannot be ruled out.
Another talented but aging running back whose team made an upgrade, Kamara’s tenure in New Orleans might be approaching sunset.
Kamara played like a shell of himself in 2025, as his 51.7 overall and 61.0 PFF rushing grades were easily career lows. Because of Kamara’s poor performance across only 12 games, New Orleans ranked 28th in rushing success rate.
Kellen Moore found a long-term solution at running back by signing Travis Etienne Jr., and trading the 30-year-old is the logical follow-up. Kamara’s large contract becomes more palatable to move after June 1, when his dead cap falls from $21.3 million to hardly over $7 million.
Kamara would make sense for Washington, Denver and Jacksonville.
After the entire football world expected the Commanders to do something big at the running back position this offseason, general manager Adam Peters has been mostly quiet there.
Peters has only added a pair of backups behind the unproven Jacory Croskey-Merritt in Rachaad White and Jerome Ford, and a rookie in Kaytron Allen, who was taken in the sixth round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Broncos are in much better shape with a duo of J.K. Dobbins and RJ Harvey, but Dobbins has been unable to stay healthy throughout his career — and that was once again the case in 2025 — and Harvey has yet to prove himself fully.
In Jacksonville, we already touched on Etienne leaving the Jags to go to the Saints. The Jags responded by signing Chris Rodriguez, who joins a backfield that also includes second-year back Bhayshul Tuten.
Not exactly a secure backfield for a team looking to contend in 2026.
Assuming Kamara doesn't retire if traded or cut, something he threatened to do at last year's trade deadline, he's likely going to want to join a contender.
If that's the case, the Broncos are his best bet, seeing as how Denver was one win away from the Super Bowl in 2025. Kamara also has a strong connection to head coach Sean Payton, who coached him in New Orleans.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers return from their bye week in Week 11 with one of the toughest road assignments on their entire 2026 schedule, traveling to Detroit to face the Lions. Coming off a midseason break designed to reset and recover, Tampa Bay is immediately thrown back into the fire against one of the NFC’s most complete and physically dominant teams in a game that could have major playoff implications down the line.
The Storyline
The biggest storyline is simple: no easing back in after the bye week. The Buccaneers will face a Lions team that has built itself into one of the NFC’s premier contenders, especially at home in Ford Field, where the crowd noise and energy consistently create one of the league’s most difficult environments. Detroit’s identity is built on physicality, balance and explosive offensive execution, making them a dangerous opponent for any team coming off extended rest.
For Tampa Bay, this becomes an early second-half measuring stick against a roster many expect to be firmly in the NFC playoff race. This game also carries potential postseason seeding weight. Matchups between NFC contenders in November often end up mattering in tie-break scenarios, and both teams will likely view this as a statement opportunity.
Key Matchups
Buccaneers linebackers vs. Lions rushing attack
Detroit’s offense can attack defenses in multiple ways, one of which and the most dangerous is on the ground, and Tampa Bay will be tested immediately. Although David Montgomery has moved on to the Texans, the Lions still have Jahmyr Gibbs and have now teamed him up with Isiah Pacheco, one of the hardest runners in the NFL. Having someone as electric as Gibbs in open field and someone as hard-nosed as Pacheco for the tough yards means the Lions' run game will be just as dangerous.
Buccaneers offensive line vs Lions defensive front
Detroit’s defensive line is one of the more physical units in the NFC, capable of generating consistent pressure and controlling the line of scrimmage. Aidan Hutchinson will be back healthy after missing extended time last season, so the Buccaneers' offensive tackles will need to be on alert. While the focus will be on Hutchinson, the Buccaneers offensive line must not neglect the middle of the Lions front 7 and find a way to keep Baker Mayfield upright. In previous matchups, Baker has made mistakes against this same defense when he is sped up in the pocket.
Keys to Winning
For Tampa Bay, the biggest key is surviving the early momentum surge from Detroit. The Lions are known for fast starts at home, and the Buccaneers cannot afford turnovers or stalled drives that fuel the crowd. Offensively, maintaining balance and controlling possession will be crucial to slowing the game down.
Defensively, Todd Bowles’ unit must generate pressure without sacrificing coverage integrity, as Detroit is dangerous both vertically and after the catch. Coming out of the bye, this matchup will quickly reveal how prepared Tampa Bay is for the stretch run against elite NFC competition.
TODAY’S GAME: The Astros and Cubs will wrap up their 3-game series this afternoon at Wrigley Field.
RHP Peter Lambert (2-4) will start for the Astros vs. Cubs LHP Shota Imanaga (4-4).
SWEEPSTAKES: A win today would give the Astros their 2nd series sweep of the season and 1st on the road…their other sweep in 2026 came March 30-April 1 vs. BOS at Daikin Park.
At Wrigley: The last time that the Astros swept the Cubs at Wrigley Field was in a 3-game series, May 30-June 1, 2011.
IN THE DAYTIME: Today is the 4th of 4 consecutive scheduled day games for the Astros.
Wednesday’s series finale at Minnesota had a 12:40 p.m. start and all 3 games this weekend at Wrigley Field had 1:20 p.m. start times.
The last time that the Astros played 4 consecutive day games was April 2-6 of last season (source: Elias).
ROADIES: Today is the 6th game (3-2 thus far) of a 10-game, 3-city road trip for Houston.
HOU went 1-2 at Minnesota on the 1st stop of the trip and are 2-0 with 1 game left to play in Chicago.
After today’s game, they will travel back to Texas for a 4-game series vs. the Rangers at Globe Life Field (Mon.-Thurs).
VS. THE CUBS: Dating back to last season, the Astros have won 4 of their last 5 games vs. the Cubs.
They took 2 of 3 vs. Chicago, June 27-29 of 2025 at Daikin Park.
Prior to the current series, the Astros last visit to Wrigley Field was a 3-game series in April of 2024 (3-gm sweep by Chicago).
The Astros are 9-5 vs. the Cubs since 2019, and all-Time they are 387-338.
Their 387 wins vs. them are their 2nd-most vs. any opponent (404-455 vs. Cincinnati).
RARE VISIT TO WRIGLEY FIELD: The current series marks just the 2nd visit to Wrigley Field for the Astros since 2013 when the Astros moved to the American League.
THE LAMMA: RHP Peter Lambert will make his 7th start of the season this afternoon.
In his 2 previous road starts, Lambert is 1-1 with a 1.74 ERA (2ER/10.1 IP)
Vs. Cubs: Lambert is 2-0 in 3 career apps. (2 GS) vs. the Cubs with a 2.57 ERA (4ER/14IP) with 14 K’s.
Where It All Started: Lambert’s Major League debut came in a start at Wrigley Field on June 6, 2019 while with Colorado. In that start, he had a no-decision, but pitched well (7 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 9 SO) in a 3 Rockies win.
YESTERDAY’S RECAP: The Astros topped the Cubs yesterday, 3-0, behind the strong pitching of starter RHP Kai-Wei Teng and a 2-HR day from 1B Christian Walker.
Teng hurled 6.0 shutout innings to earn the win while Walker went 3×3 with 2 HR and 3 RBI.
LHP Bryan King hurled a scoreless 9th to earn his 6th save of the season.
BLANKINGS: Yesterday’s 3-0 win was the Astros 5th shutout of the season, which is T-3rd in the AL.
FOR STARTERS: Astros starters have a combined ERA of 2.56 (13ER/45.2IP) over the last 8 games.
Yesterday was the 3rd time in the last 4 games that an Astros starter did not allow a run in their start, and Astros starters have allowed no runs 4 times in the last 8 games.
WALKER, TEXAS HAMMER: 1B Christian Walker had his 17th career 2-HR game in yesterday’s 3-0 win.
For the season, he has been one of the top hitting 1st basemen in the AL…overall, he currently ranks 4th the AL in RBI (34), 6th in TB (100), T-6th in HR (13) and 7th in SLG (.521).
RECENT STROS: The Astros are 5-3 in their last 8 games and 6-4 in their last 10 games.
PEN PALS: As a group, the Astros bullpen has had a decent run of success recently.
Since May 8, they have a combined ERA of 3.35 (18ER/48.1IP).
Individually, several relievers are currently pitching well: -RHP Bryan Abreu: 0.00 ERA in last 7 outings (6.2 IP, 0 R). -RHP AJ Blubaugh: 2.18 ERA in last 8 outings (12.1 IP, 3 ER). -LHP Bryan King: 1.42 ERA in last 10 outings (12.2 IP, 2 ER) -LHP Steven Okert: 8 K’s in his last 4.2 IP (5 apps)
Game Info
Game Date/Time: Sunday, May 24, 1:20 p.m. CT
Location: Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL
TV: Space City Home Network
Radio: KBME 790 AM & 94.5 FM HD2; TUDN 102.9 FM HD2 (Spanish)
Wilfried Zaha will depart Charlotte FC in June after spending a year and a half with the team.
Zaha’s loan agreement with Charlotte FC is ending on June 30, 2026.
The forward featured in 46 matches across Major League Soccer league play and playoffs. He recorded 13 goals and 14 assists, contributing to 27 total goals, which ranks him fifth all-time in Charlotte FC history.
Charlotte FC will start the summer transfer window with a Designated Player and an international roster spot open.
“Wilfried has been an important part of Charlotte FC since his arrival on loan last winter and has played a key role in our attack since joining,” said Zoran Krneta, general manager of Charlotte FC.
Krneta said Zaha “helped us reach the top four in the Eastern Conference for the first time” last season and “approached every match with a hunger and desire to perform for our supporters.”
Zaha is returning to his parent club, Galatasaray.
Charlotte FC will now take a two-month break for the FIFA World Cup.
The team is scheduled to return to league play on Wednesday, July 22 against Atlanta United.
The race to determine a spot in the Women's College World Series has hit an unexpected pause.
The winner-take-all matchup between No. 11 Texas Tech and No. 6 Florida softball at the Gainesville Super Regional at Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium in Gainesville, Florida is in a weather delay.
The game was stopped in the bottom of the first inning with the Gators holding on to an early 4-3 lead due to lightning in the area.
The Red Raiders, the reigning national runner-up, won the first game of the best-of-three series on Friday, but Florida responded on Saturday with a 10-2 victory in which it teed off on Texas Tech star pitcher NiJaree Canady.
USA TODAY Sports will be providing live updates from the stoppage in play between Florida and Texas Tech softball.
Arthur Gea at the French Open; Gea running off the court to use the bathroom on May 24, 2026 Credit: Marleen Fouchier/BSR Agency/Getty; tntsports/X
NEED TO KNOW
Arthur Gea abruptly ran off the tennis court for an emergency bathroom break during his French Open debut
“I cannot wait, it’s not a joke,” the 21-year-old French pro tennis player said to the umpire before sprinting to the bathroom
Following the match, the French tennis star said that he woke up that morning feeling unwell
Arthur Gea paused the first set of his French Open debut to take an emergency bathroom break.
On Sunday, May 24, the 135th-ranked French tennis star, 21, dramatically dashed off the Suzanne-Lenglen Court in Paris after telling the umpire that he had to urgently use the restroom in the middle of his match against Karen Khachanov.
“I need to go to the bathroom. I can't move anymore,” Gea said to the chair umpire before running off, according to the Associated Press. “I'm going to (go) on the court.”
“I cannot wait. It's not a joke,” he added, as seen in a TNT Sports video.
While Gea was trailing Khachanov 4-2 when he abruptly paused the match, Khachanov protested to the umpire as three minutes passed before they were able to resume.
According to a rule introduced by the Association of Tennis Professionals in 2022, players can take a maximum of three minutes once they have entered the toilet. Additionally, a player may only take one toilet break per match during a set break.
In this case, Gea said that the umpire allowed him the break because of “medical circumstances,” noting that he was given medications to ease his stomach pain.
Ultimately, Khachanov won the match 6-3, 7-6 (3), 6-0.
Arthur Gea during 2026 French Open Credit: Franco Arland/Getty
Following the match, Gea said that he woke up that morning feeling unwell after not feeling any symptoms the night before.
“I was feeling really, really bad this morning in particular. But during the match was even worse because it was a bit hot and I had to go to the toilet really quick and they didn't allow it,” he said during a press conference. “I was asking the referee because I was feeling really, really bad and then the doctor came and obviously I could go out and it was not so long.”
In addition to Gea's illness, his match against Khachanov took place during a grueling heat wave in Paris with temperatures nearing 90 degrees Fahrenheit. As spectators fanned themselves with newspapers in the stands, players attempted to keep cool and stay hydrated on the court.
“I was feeling a bit better but it was still really bad,” Gea continued of his condition after returning the bathroom. “It was really, really hard physically with my health.”
Texas Tech had just begun a pitching change after starter Kaitlyn Terry had surrendered four runs. Nijaree Canady was warming up in relief when the game was called for a delay.
The delay will last 30 minutes but restarts after each lightning strike within a 10-mile radius.
According to Weather Channel, rain is expected in the area around 2 p.m.
The winner of the game will advance to win the Women’s College World Series in Oklahoma City and face either Oklahoma or Mississippi State.
A man who is running the entire length of the UK in a continuous relay with his brother admits the challenge is "a pretty brutal beast".
Joe Pritchard, from Worcester, and sibling Alfie left John O'Groats six days ago and are due to arrive on Monday at Land's End, about 837 miles (1,497 km) away.
Between them, they have been running 24 hours a day, with the goal being to raise £10,000 for veterans charity, Help for Heroes.
Joe, who described returning to Worcester on Saturday as "one of the high moments", said they had tried to have quicker changeovers to cope with the heat.
Asked what was the first thing he would do after completing the challenge in Cornwall, the runner replied he would have a "cold pint straight away, maybe a little cigarette".
"But, no, I'm just looking forward to waking up and not think 'oh wow, [I've] got to run', just being able to relax and do nothing."
Joe Pritchard, pictured while running in Worcester, said the week had been "a lot tougher than I thought it'd be" [BBC]
Initially, they were running in shifts of half an hour each, before switching to blocks of two hours during the day and four hours at night.
While one was running, the other has been eating or sleeping in their camper van, driven by someone else.
Joe said the night shifts were "tricky to tackle, but we've got through plenty of them now".
Asked what was the most amount of sleep he had had, the Worcester resident replied it was "in one go probably about two hours 45, maybe three if we're lucky, but it's not real proper sleep".
Joe admitted the challenge was "a lot tougher than I thought it'd be, maybe that's very naive of me".
Temperatures were about 27C or 28C in Worcester and Joe said they had "tried [to] turn the shifts down to like quicker changeovers, at half an hour, 45 minutes, rather than an hour and a half".
"But I'm glad it's towards the end this heat and not at the start," he added.
The video tribute, which aired ahead of the race on FOX, featured commentary from fellow racing legends Jimmie Johnson, Danica Patrick, and Tony Stewart.
“Kyle Busch wasn’t born in a race car. It just seemed that way. With raw talent, confidence, and a fearless edge, he started racing at six and was NASCAR Rookie of the Year at just 19,” the video began. “He went on to build one of the greatest careers the sport has ever seen, earning 234 wins across all three national series.
“But all that winning did little to smooth Kyle’s rough edges. That took a very special person. Samantha. As their love and family grew, so did he, and Victory Lane became the place shared with the people he loved most. In 21 years chasing greatness, the talented teenage wild thing grew into the husband, father, and champion everyone wanted to see win at least one more time. And we did.”
You can expect the tributes to continue on Sunday night, when the Coca-Cola 600 takes place at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
May 23, 2026; Concord, North Carolina, USA; Richard Childress Racing driver Austin Hill (33) wears a tshirt with the photo of deceased Kyle Busch during qualifying at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Report: Newcastle United have the chance to sign Juventus star
Newcastle United Transfer News: Jonathan David Loan Opportunity Emerges
Newcastle United have been offered encouragement in their pursuit of Juventus striker Jonathan David, with TeamTalk reporting that intermediaries have made contact over a possible summer move.
David only joined Juventus from Lille last summer but his time in Turin has not developed as expected. Eight goals and five assists across 45 appearances points to a player still searching for rhythm, confidence and the right tactical fit.
Newcastle Assess Summer Forward Options
Eddie Howe’s side are preparing for a significant rebuild after missing out on European football. Attacking depth has become a priority, especially after difficult seasons for both Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade.
With Anthony Gordon also expected to attract serious interest from Bayern Munich, Newcastle may need flexibility in the final third. A loan move for David would offer exactly that, giving the club access to a proven international forward without committing immediately to a major permanent fee.
X: @FabrizioRomano
Juventus Open Door for David Exit
Juventus are understood to be willing to let David leave this summer, and Newcastle have reportedly been given the green light over a potential loan deal.
That matters. Newcastle’s recruitment has to be smart, especially after a season that exposed gaps in squad balance. David’s record at Lille showed a sharp, mobile and intelligent striker, but his Juventus spell raises valid questions over whether he can adapt quickly to the Premier League.
Premier League Move Could Revive Career
David is also said to be open to the move, with the Premier League believed to be a competition he has long wanted to experience.
For Newcastle, this would be a calculated gamble rather than a reckless one. A loan deal limits financial exposure, while giving Howe a forward with Champions League, Serie A and international experience. The concern is whether David can make an immediate impact, because Newcastle cannot afford another attacking signing who needs months to settle.
Smart Gamble or Transfer Risk?
TeamTalk’s report presents this as an opportunity, but Newcastle must be careful. David has pedigree, yet form matters. If Howe can rebuild his confidence and place him in a system that suits his movement, this could become one of the summer’s shrewder deals.
If not, it risks becoming another short term fix for a problem Newcastle thought they had already solved.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
From a Newcastle United perspective, this is the type of deal that feels both exciting and slightly nerve wracking.
Jonathan David has the name, the reputation and the underlying quality to make fans sit up. Anyone who watched him at Lille knows there is a proper striker there, someone clever with his movement, calm around the box and capable of linking play rather than simply waiting for service.
But Newcastle need certainty now. Missing out on Europe changes the mood around the club, and supporters will want signings who raise the floor immediately. David’s Juventus numbers are not disastrous, but they do not scream guaranteed Premier League success either.
That is why a loan makes sense. It protects Newcastle from a big mistake while giving Howe a player with serious upside. If David adapts, Newcastle could have a hungry forward entering his prime. If he struggles, the club can walk away without being tied to a long contract.
For me, this would be worth exploring, provided it does not stop Newcastle from chasing a more explosive wide forward or a proven Premier League goal threat. David could be a smart move, but he cannot be the whole attacking plan.
Liverpool and Barcelona call Dumfries’ agents ahead of summer transfer window
Liverpool and Barcelona have reportedly contacted the agents of Inter right wing-back Denzel Dumfries to confirm their interest for the summer transfer window.
Liverpool and Barcelona have confirmed their interest in Dumfries through talks with the representatives of the Netherlands international, according to FcInterNews.
Liverpool and Barcelona are interested in Dumfries
The report claims that Liverpool executives have been in contact with the right-back’s agents in recent weeks, and the same is true for Barcelona.
The Catalans, however, would only consider a move for Dumfries if they sell Jules Koundé for at least €60m.
Dumfries has a €25m release clause in July, and strong performances at the World Cup would likely attract interest from even more European clubs.
Dumfries has had a troubled season due to injuries, but still collected five goals and two assists in 28 appearances across all competitions.
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 04: Denzel Dumfries of Internazionale looks on during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Cremonese at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 04, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Mattia Zaccagni of SS Lazio competes for the ball with DFanzel Dumfries of FC Internazionale during the Coppa Italia final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
His contract at San Siro expires in June 2028.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Liverpool already showed interest in Dumfries during the January window, when the Reds tried to include the Dutchman in a deal for Inter target Curtis Jones.
After losing the first game of the Western Conference finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder will be seeking a third straight win over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 4 on Sunday night.
Unfortunately, they'll be missing a key contributor for the contest.
Ajay Mitchell ruled out for Game 4 vs. Spurs due to right soleus strain
Reserve guard Ajay Mitchell has been officially ruled out of Game 4 against San Antonio due to a right soleus strain. It will be the first playoff game missed by Mitchell this postseason for Oklahoma City.
In 11 playoff games this year, Mitchell has averaged 15.1 points, 4.3 assists, 3.7 rebounds and 1.5 steals per performance.
Mitchell has started in seven games this postseason in place of Jalen Williams, who has been dealing with a lingering hamstring injury. Williams, who missed the third game of the series, is listed as "questionable" for Game 4 due to the hamstring injury. His final status will be determined prior to tipoff.
The Thunder are a deep team, but that depth could be tested if both Mitchell and Williams are forced to miss Game 4.
Charles Bassey had a hectic 2025-26 season to say the least, as the fifth-year center played games for four different NBA teams, including the Golden State Warriors. After appearing in five games with the Boston Celtics on two 10-day contracts, the Warriors brought him in for the final four games of the regular season and the NBA Play-In Tournament.
To finish the year, Bassey looked like a solid rotation piece, averaging 10.6 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.4 blocks on 67.7% shooting from the field. That said, despite his solid play, he wasn't able to affect the Warriors' push for the postseason, playing zero minutes in the Play-In Tournament against the Clippers and one minute of garbage time against the Suns. Although Bassey didn't have the biggest opportunity to make an impact, he was impressive when on the floor. Looking ahead to next year, Bassey will be an unrestricted free agent.
The Reacts dugout is seen before an NCAA baseball game at Bainton Field in Piscataway, United States, on May 9, 2026. (Photo by Dan Squicciarini/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images
The college baseball transfer portal is a week away from opening, and three Scarlet Knights have already made clear their intentions to transfer, according to The Knight Report. Unlike the Basketball and Football transfer portals, the college baseball transfer portal window is much longer, opening on Monday, June 1st, and closing on Tuesday, June 30th.
The three players who already announced their intentions to transfer are freshman infielder Julius Rosado, freshman infielder Joey Erace, and sophomore RHP Andrew Rondini.
During his freshman season with Rutgers, Rosado recorded 7 hits, 12 RBI’s, and 10 runs for the Knights. On defense, Rosado recorded 27 put-outs, 47 assists, and 4 errors while recording a fielding average of .949. He was the No.184 prospect overall in the 2026 recruitment class.
Erace, on the other hand, recorded 13 hits, 1 home run, 7 RBI’s, and 13 runs for the Knights during his freshman season. On defense, Erace recorded 41 put-outs, 42 assists, and 3 errors while recording a fielding average of .965. He was the No.19 prospect in New Jersey coming out of the 2026 class.
Rondini, the only pitcher to announce his departure so far, pitched in 11 games for 25 innings in 2026, recording 20 strikeouts and an estimated runs against average of 2.16. He surrendered 17 hits, 2 home runs, and 10 walks during his time at the plate last season.
Rutgers baseball had a rough go of it in the transfer portal last season, losing a lot of pitching depth in the process, and it showed this season. However, with the changes made in positions of power at the university, in particular, the hiring of AD Keli Zinn, they should have more resources to go out and get what they need while retaining those they want to keep.
The Los Angeles Angels are likely to be one of the clearest sellers at the 2026 MLB trade deadline among all teams around baseball.
They are sporting the worst record in the league and are far from being a contender for the postseason, let alone the World Series. Selling is an obvious outcome this year for the Angels, but most of the questions, of course, will be about Mike Trout.
MLB insider Bob Nightengale of USA Today revealed a significant trade update on Trout that should finally clear the air on whether Trout is actually available for trade this season or not.
MLB insider reveals what should be the final Mike Trout trade update for Angels
"No, Trout will not be traded," Nightengale writes. "He has zero interest in waiving his no-trade clause. The reality is that with about $160 million remaining on his contract through 2030, no team would even touch him unless the Angels ate nearly three-quarters of the contract. And that's not happening."
While there surely would be plenty of fanbases that dream about their team acquiring Mike Trout at the 2026 trade deadline, like the Philadelphia Phillies and New York Yankees, the odds of a trade are essentially zero.
Unlike most players, Trout has a full no-trade clause, meaning the only way he could be traded is if he accepted an offer to head to another team.
And Nightengale is reporting that Trout has no such intention, meaning that any trade inquiries on Trout are dead on arrival.
Teams seeking a right-handed slugger like Trout will have to look elsewhere, as the Angels veteran and future Hall of Famer looks more likely to finish his career with the Angels on his $26.5 million deal in 2030 than he is to head elsewhere.
At 34 years old, Trout is having a resurgent 2026 season, as he has 13 homers with 2.2 bWAR and an .896 OPS. It might not be as good as his prime, but it's more than enough to be considered an All-Star, which he hasn't done since 2023.
And as much as teams would love to acquire Trout now that he's playing better, this update from Nightengale effectively confirms that Trout is going nowhere now or in the future.
Ukraine's Oleksandr Usyk (L) fights Netherlands' Rico Verhoeven (R) during their WBC World Heavyweight Championship 'Glory in Giza' boxing match at the Pyramids of Giza on May 23, 2026. Heavyweight boxing king Oleksandr Usyk retained his titles after a dramatic and controversial stoppage victory over kick-boxer Rico Verhoeven with a second left of the 11th round in Egypt on May 23. (Photo by Khaled DESOUKI / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images
Rico Verhoeven is at least considering an appeal of yesterday’s controversial TKO loss to Oleksandr Usyk, telling Boxing News that after reviewing footage, he believes referee Mark Lyson stopped the fight after the bell to end the 11th round.
If you look at the video, he’s got a good argument.
“I just saw the end, because of all the comments I was reading. They stopped the fight after the bell. So the bell went, then they stopped the fight. I think we might just go and appeal it … That’s something [the referee] should be aware of. Of course, mistakes can be made, but looking back at it, the referee needs to admit his mistake. It’s either a no contest or we go to the scorecards, and if we do that, I was ahead.”
Verhoeven’s assessment of the score card situation is a bit flawed, to clear that up somewhat. Verhoeven did lead on one card, with two even, after 10 rounds. That would be a majority draw, not “Verhoeven ahead.” But all three judges would have scored the 11th round 10-8 for Usyk thanks to a knockdown, which would have left one card even and two with Usyk holding the edge, had the 11th round been scored. And that would have been a majority win on the cards for Usyk.
Realistically, as trainer Peter Fury said, we’ll just never really know what the 12th round might have brought. Most figure that Usyk, with big momentum and Rico sincerely hurt, would have gotten the stoppage or at least sealed a narrow points win.
Michael Carrick confirms why another Red is absent along with Casemiro vs Brighton after summer exit agreement
Diogo Dalot has missed Manchester United’s final game of the campaign through injury.
The full-back was replaced by Noussair Mazraoui in the starting XI for today’s clash with Brighton and Hove Albion, meaning his focus is now fully on a swift recovery ahead of Portugal’s World Cup opener on June 17.
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Diogo Dalot turns attention to international duty
29 of Dalot’s 34 Premier League appearances this term have come as a starter, so he’ll be feeling aggrieved to have had to sit out this afternoon, especially with the Reds currently cruising to a comfortable victory at 3-0.
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It’s already been confirmed that the defender has been included in Roberto Martinez’s Portugal squad, where he’ll link up with his club skipper Bruno Fernandes, who enters the tournament in world-class form after setting his own PL assist record.
Mourinho signed the Braga native back in 2018 in a £19 million deal from Porto, and has seemingly set his sights on a reunion at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Long-serving right-back Dani Carvajal has bid farewell to Los Blancos before his contract expires at the end of June, while Trent Alexander-Arnold has also failed to impress in his maiden season, hence the new links to Dalot.
When pressed on why the 27-year-old had been left out of his side, Michael Carrick told reporters at the Amex: “He’s absolutely fine. Just rotation and getting the younger players into the squad.
“He’s been fantastic and played a lot of games. He’ll be with Portugal next week, so there are no worries.”
Why has Casemiro been left out?
Elsewhere, Casemiro has also been omitted on the final day.
He reached an agreement with United to be dropped for the fixture in order to begin his World Cup preparations early, as well as finalise an imminent switch to Inter Miami.
Napoli injury crisis drags on to final game with Alisson Santos and Lobotka hurt
Napoli end the season the way it started and indeed continued, with fresh injury problems for Alisson Santos, Stanislav Lobotka, Leonardo Spinazzola and Alessandro Buongiorno.
The Partenopei are on the field this evening with their final game of the campaign, hosting Udinese at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
Antonio Conte has said many times that it is remarkable his squad managed to secure a Champions League finish when dealing with numerous injuries.
Those started in pre-season with Romelu Lukaku tearing a thigh muscle, and in the last game there was room for yet more difficulties.
Napoli with fresh injury setbacks
NAPLES, ITALY – MARCH 09: Stanislav Lobotka of Napoli during the Serie A match between Napoli and Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on March 09, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
The Brazilian left the field in tears to a standing ovation from the crowd, but it could be a serious hamstring or flexor strain, which if confirmed could even eat into his pre-season preparations.
Incredibly, Lobotka then followed suit after receiving treatment for a suspected calf injury just 36 minutes into the same match.
This wasn’t the only issue, because Spinazzola and Buongiorno were unexpectedly not in the squad either this evening.
It was later confirmed that both had suffered minor knee injuries in training and would not be risked.
Florida high school football schedules for the 2026 season are coming out one-by-one out of every state around the country and one region that is always a breeding ground for college prospects is over in the North Central Florida region (Alachua, Baker, Levy, Marion counties), with a number of squads finalizing their fall slates.
A team that’s always in the playoff mix come November are the Gainesville (Fla.) F. W. Buchholz Bobcats, which just recently released their 2026 schedule. The Bobcats were knocking on the door again, trying to reach the 6A state championship game but fell to state finalist West Broward.
Buchholz will have a chance to a state championship contending team once again as they return 2028 three-star quarterback Andrew Whittemore and wide receivers Marquel Brooks, Camron Fuse. The Bobcats will have one of the state’s bigger offensive line units, led by 2027 three-star Bryce Daniels (6’4, 320), who transferred in from Starke (Fla.) Bradford.
The full F.W. Buchholz 2026 football schedule can be seen below, with all official game times to be announced at a later date.
F.W. Buchholz Football 2026 Schedule
Aug. 14 – at Lake Mary (Fla.), 7 p.m. – Kickoff Classic Aug. 21 – at Ocala (Fla.) Vanguard, 7 p.m. Aug. 28 – Gainesville (Fla.), 7:30 p.m. Sep. 4 – at Gainesville (Fla.) Eastside, 7:30 p.m. Sep. 11 – at Ocala (Fla.) West Port, 7 p.m. Sep. 18 – at Tampa (Fla.) Jesuit, 7:30 p.m. Sep. 24 – Ocala (Fla.) Forest, 7 p.m. Oct. 1 – at Alachua (Fla.) Santa Fe, 7 p.m. Oct. 9 – at Palm Coast (Fla.) Matanzas, 7 p.m. Oct. 23 – Orange Park (Fla.) Oakleaf, 7 p.m. Oct. 30 – at Jacksonville (Fla.) The Bolles School, 7 p.m.
For this Fall we mixed in some familiar foes with some fresh challengers. New district, same goals. #GoCatspic.twitter.com/J1SWOTkOLu
The Bobcats ended this past season with a 13-2 record and finishing at No. 17 in the final 2025 Florida High School Football Massey Rankings
More about F.W. Buchholz High School
F. W. Buchholz High School, located in Gainesville, Florida, is a public school recognized for its strong academics, competitive athletics, and diverse extracurricular activities. The school offers a variety of AP and honors courses to prepare students for higher education and future careers. Buchholz’s athletic teams frequently achieve regional and state recognition. Emphasizing leadership, community involvement, and personal development, the school ensures students are well-rounded and prepared for future success.
How to Follow Florida High School Football
For Florida high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the Sunshine State, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the state, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the Florida high school football excitement across the state.
Detroit Red Wings 2025 draft pick Brent Solomon (109th) scored his first goal of the series to help the Sioux Falls Stampede record a 4-3 double-overtime triumph against the Muskegon Lumberjacks to capture the USHL’s Clark Cup championship.
Solomon gave the Stampede their first lead of the game when he tapped in a backdoor pass from Cooper Soller for a power play to make it a 2-1 game. It was Solomon’s fifth power play goal of the postseason.
Brent Solomon Last Night: "The power play hasn't been there for us and we've got to step up. I take responsibility for that"
The Lumberjacks had rallied from a 3-1 deficit to force overtime. Joey McCrina scored the game-winner at 6:43 of the second overtime.
Solomon, headed to Wisconsin to play college hockey, has had a strong 2025-26 season. He put up 53 points with 24 goals in 54 games for the Stampede. In the Clark championship series, he two points and 16 shots on goal in four games.
In Case You Missed It
Veteran James van Riemsdyk probably has to go to make room for Red Wings prospects coming aboard.
Carter Bear (15th, 2025) scored the winning goal in the Everett Silvertips’ 5-3 defeat of the Chicoutimi Sagueneens on Saturday night in their opening game at the Memorial Cup. Bear boasts eight goals and 15 assists for 23 points in 19 postseason games.
Boston: Bruins player Lukas Reichel had a four-point game to lead Germany to an important 6-2 win against Austria at the World Championships. Boston Bruins.
New Jersey: James Nichols has a good list of Devils’ offseason trade targets. New Jersey Devils.
Philadelphia: William James explores an underrated trade possibility for the Flyers. Check out his work covering the Philadelphia Flyers.
Pittsburgh: Dan Kingerski, our wired-in Penguins writer, offers the latest trade rumors about a Buffalo Sabres goalie. Pittsburgh Penguins.
San Jose: SJHN’s Sheng Peng weighs in on realistic trade offers for the Sharks’ No. 2 picks. San Jose Sharks.
The Egypt international has written himself into Liverpool lore, setting multiple club records and placing himself amongst the pantheon of greats to have ever played on Merseyside.
As his career is not believed to be ending upon his exit from Anfield, The Sporting News looks at possible new pastures Salah could seek out as he scours Europe and the world for his next club — perhaps his last before riding off into retirement.
There are a few potential landing spots for Salah once he departs Anfield this summer, but one stands out above the rest as the most likely final outcome.
It should be noted that Salah's agent Remy Abbas stated no decision has been made on Salah's next club, in somewhat colourful terms.
We do not know where Mohamed will play next season. This also means that no one else knows. Beware of the click-whoring attention seekers.
While the club he could end up at isn't yet known, it's believed that by far the most likely outcome for Salah this summer is to sign with a top Saudi Pro League club.
As one of the most visible and iconic Muslim players of all time, Salah's move to Saudi Arabia would be highly unsurprising, as he fits the mould for the profile of high-impact target the league usually chases.
It's unlikely that Salah's capture would require a significant transfer fee, if any at all, leaving the league to flex its financial muscles in a wage package that would be nearly impossible for anyone else to top.
As for the Saudi club he could land with, there are a few possibilities. The most notable club was previously Al Hilal, who boast a star-studded squad including Karim Benzema, Darwin Nunez, and Saudi international Salem Al-Dawsari along the front line, along with Ruben Neves, Theo Hernandez, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Yassine Bounou elsewhere on the pitch. However, Al Hilal were sold by the Saudi Public Investment Fund as part of that body's change in investment priorities, meaning the club may not have the financial power it previously did.
He could also end up at Al Nassr to partner with Cristiano Ronaldo, a mouth-watering prospect that could help satiate Ronaldo's growing frustration with PIF's transfer policy. They would have to fit Salah in along with Joao Felix and Sadio Mane, but that would be a natural transition as his position on the right would complement Mane on the left and Ronaldo up top quite well.
The Athletic reported on March 25 that Al Ittihad were heavily in for Salah last summer and could go in again as they look to replace Benzema after his move to Al Hilal, while Al Qadsiah have the finances to make a move happen.
Major League Soccer
While MLS will surely make a play for Salah's signature this summer, likely already laying the groundwork for a run at his services, it's hard to imagine them having the financial wherewithal to challenge the Saudi Pro League's financial might and Muslim ties.
Clubs in the MLS structure have to play within their strict financial rules, which can hamper their ability to make a splash for such a superstar player that will likely command a massive financial package. Sure, they wooed Lionel Messi to the United States, but that took enormous heavy lifting that would be difficult to recreate, especially after recently securing the signature of Antoine Griezmann at Orlando City.
Even given MLS's antiquated discovery rights system, Salah would likely have his pick of club, with the LA Galaxy and LAFC sure to be strong players. It's hard to predict which club would make the strongest case, but in the end, this outcome is unlikely. Chicago Fire had a sustained interest in Kevin De Bruyne last season before the Belgium star left Manchester City for Napoli and might take another punt at a marquee signing. NYCFC could also make a move, hoping to secure a big signing to help them open their new stadium next season.
Tom Bogert of The Athletic reported on March 25 that neither the Fire nor San Diego FC were actively working on a deal for Salah. San Diego is owned by British-Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Mansour, but the report states signing a big-money superstar does not align with their sporting philosophy.
Europe
Despite a significant downturn in production this season, it's possible that Salah still believes he can compete on the European level and does not wish to leave the continent until he's certain he can no longer keep up.
Clubs such as Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain are the likeliest landing spots in Europe, given their long-held appreciation for his services. PSG especially would be a real possibility, given their propensity for heavy rotation in Ligue 1 play under Luis Enrique. Salah could rest himself during league play and save his best for European competition, adding to the club's already extreme depth.
At this point, however, it's unlikely Salah will stay in Europe. If the Saudi league comes in with a significant financial offer, Salah may feel this is his last opportunity to secure such a windfall, and if he waits much longer, they could grow frustrated with his repeated rejections, especially after turning them down last year to recommit to Liverpool.
Why is Mohamed Salah leaving Liverpool?
Salah has been in Red for nine seasons since joining from Italian side Roma in the summer of 2017, becoming one of Liverpool's all-time greatest players.
His greatest triumphs include winning the Premier League title in 2019/20 and 2024/25, while also leading Liverpool to a Champions League title in crown in 2018/19. On an individual level, he won Premier League Player of the Year twice, and was voted African Footballer of the Year twice while playing for Liverpool.
Since then, it has been anticipated that Salah would leave at the end of the season, despite signing a two-year contract with the club last summer.
Salah again hit out on social media after the May defeat to Aston Villa. He appeared to criticise their style of play under Slot, stating: "I want to see Liverpool go back to being the heavy metal attacking team that opponents fear and back to being a team that wins trophies."
The apparent tensions behind the scenes, plus Salah's own drop-off in performances, make a parting of the ways now seem like the best solution for all concerned.
Scottie Scheffler is two shots back heading into the final round of the 2026 CJ Cup Byron Nelson.Getty Images
The final round of the 2026 CJ Cup Byron Nelson begins Sunday morning at TPC Craig Ranch. Here’s everything you need to know to watch the tournament on Sunday, including full CJ Cup Byron Nelson TV coverage, streaming details and complete Round 4 tee times.
How to watch CJ Cup Byron Nelson on Sunday
After firing rounds of 64-60, the CJ Cup Byron Nelson’s 36-hole leader, Si Woo Kim held a five-shot lead heading into the third round. But at given the prime scoring conditions in Texas this week, no lead is safe. Kim’s Saturday 68 opened the door to his closest competitors, some of whom managed to gain some ground with one round remaining.
Third rounds of 65 from Scottie Scheffler and Wyndham Clark brought them to 19 under par overall and have the two major winners within two shots of Kim’s lead of 21 under par.
There are seven total players within five shots of Kim: the above-mentioned Scheffler and Clark, as well as Stephan Jaeger, Tom Hoge, Sungjae Im and Zach Bauchou.
Kim and Scheffler will play together in Sunday’s final pairing at 1:40 p.m. ET.
You can watch the final round of the CJ Cup Byron Nelson on TV via Golf Channel beginning at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, followed by the CBS broadcast at 3 p.m. ET. PGA Tour Live on ESPN+ will provide exclusive early streaming coverage starting Sunday at 7:45 a.m. ET, as well as featured group and featured hole coverage all day long. The GOLF App will carry a simulcast of Golf Channel’s TV coverage.
Below you will find everything you need to know to watch the final round of the 2026 CJ Cup Byron Nelson.
Get ESPN+
With an ESPN+ subscription, you gain access to PGA Tour Live, where you can stream the best PGA Tour events live from wherever you want.
Golf Channel will air final-round TV coverage of the 2026 CJ Cup Byron Nelson from 1-3 p.m. ET on Sunday, followed by the CBS broadcast from 3-6 p.m. ET.
How to stream online Sunday
You can stream the final round of the 2026 CJ Cup Byron Nelson via PGA Tour Live on ESPN+, which will offer streaming coverage starting on Sunday at 7:45 a.m. ET in addition to featured group and hole coverage. You can also stream a live simulcast of Golf Channel’s TV coverage on the GOLF App, while the CBS broadcast will stream on Paramount+.
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Perhaps in anticipation of a slew of upcoming premium products from Apple that are rumored to carry the 'Ultra' label, Samsung has apparently decided to peg this hype-inducing appellation on to the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8, but without the specs to truly classify the next-gen foldable as an Ultra-class product. Samsung is trying to preempt a slew of Ultra-class products from Apple by slapping the Ultra label on to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 According to SamMobile, Samsung is planning to rebrand the direct successor to the Galaxy Z Fold 7 as the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, while […]
Polymemo is a global publishing platform where your posts reach readers in any language. Readers can invest in translations up front and share view-based revenue, while you set flexible viewing fees, including negative pricing for promotions. Teams use shared wallets to monetize organizational knowledge, and an AI agent powered by Claude helps with writing, summaries, and analysis. Real-time translated chats, MCP integrations, and an insight dashboard help you grow across borders.
The Azamara Journey has become the second Azamara Cruises ship to debut new onboard entertainment developed in partnership with RWS Global. Two exclusive new productions were launched during the Spain Intensive Cruise visiting Barcelona, Ibiza & Majorca, departing on May 21, 2026, the cruise line said in a press release. “Entertainment is an essential part...
This past week, Samsung released the One UI 8.5 software update for several Galaxy S-series phones, revamping their user experience and ending a months-long wait.
Earlier this month, One UI 8.5 was released for the Galaxy S25 series in Korea after months of beta testing. Though the Galaxy S24 and S23 series also joined the program, they received the update a little later.
However, the company didn’t delay the rollout any further. So, the first update has been released for the Galaxy S24 series in Korea, followed by a global expansion, including the Galaxy S24 FE. This week, the update covered the Galaxy S23 series globally.
The majority of the device owners are reporting that the update has been released, but some are still waiting. That’s due to the staged rollout, but this year, the simultaneous rollout is way faster than in 2025.
We took feedback from the Galaxy S24 and S23 series users on X, and their response was quite positive about the One UI 8.5.
This update focuses on UI upgrades and feature optimizations. Starting with the quick panel, which now supports adjusting the size of the elements just like a widget. This makes the quick panel personalization more robust.
Samsung has introduced new photo assist tools to improve your photo editing. On the other hand, you will experience AI features such as real-time background audio removal with Audio Eraser and better AI image generation with Creative Studio.
Some of you may even notice a revamped wallpaper section with interactive options. One UI 8.5 for these Galaxy S-series phones brings system app redesigns over their predecessors. Moreover, you can dive into new camera filters to change the way your photographs look.
This update rollout for the Galaxy S23 or S24 series is still in progress. Users who haven’t received this update should wait for further expansion.
The Urtopia Carbon 1 ST is not only a very good bike with a relaxed, motor-assisted ride, but also offers a variety of smart features. The following takes a closer look at these.
Deal | Total War: Warhammer III, the turn-based real-time strategy game developed by Creative Assembly, is currently on sale on Steam for just $8.99 — that's an 85% discount off its usual $59.99 price. The offer ends on May 28, 2026.
The Realme 16T combines a massive 8,000mAh battery with a reasonably-specced base for an affordable price - starts at INR29,999 (around €270, converted).
Realme says you can expect up to three days of endurance, and that the power pack would last for 7 years, which would give frugal-minded buyers some nice peace of mind.
The Realme 16T
We finished our battery life and charging tests on the Realme 16T, so let's see how it did.
The Realme 16T scored close to 23 hours in our Active Use Score, which breaks down with solid call, web, and video runtimes, and a...
Following a historic and successful spell, Pep Guardiola has decided to leave Manchester City at the end of the season. In light of his departure, the Spanish head coach has sent a warning to his successor at the club, making clear the path that must be followed to continue the Citizens’ legacy.
Pep Guardiola has managed to transform Manchester City from a competitive team into a Premier League giant. By winning six league titles in the last eight years, they established a level of dominance not seen since Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United. Despite this, the Spanish head coach has decided to leave the Citizens at the end of the season, sending a strong message to his successor.
Looking ahead to the future of the Citizens, Guardiola decided to issue a stern warning to his successor as the team’s head coach. “It doesn’t work to copy and paste in this kind of job. You have to be unique, natural and yourself and the new manager will be himself. The moment it starts to be a copy for another one … Everyone is everyone. It has to be like that. And that’s why everything is going to be good,” he said in the latest press conference.
Despite deciding to leave Manchester City, Guardiola claims to maintain an excellent relationship with the club and its board, making it clear that his departure is driven by personal reasons. In light of this, Enzo Maresca appears to be the ideal candidate to replace the Spaniard as the Citizens’ head coach. Not only does he have Premier League experience, but he also served as Pep’s assistant at the club, already being familiar with the team’s methods.
Far from being a jab at Maresca, Pep Guardiola’s words were valuable advice, as his legacy in Manchester could be quite difficult to live up to. With this in mind, the Italian’s potential arrival would bring a change to the team’s style of play, because while they share the same philosophy, their approach is quite different. Furthermore, the Spaniard has proven himself to be one of the best in history, so replicating his ideas are very difficult.
Enzo Maresca, Manager of Chelsea, embraces Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City.
Pep Guardiola to stay involved in Manchester City’s future
As one of the greatest managers in soccer history, Pep Guardiola’s departure from Manchester City has excited numerous clubs and national teams pursuing his arrival in the summer of 2026. Nevertheless, he has already stated that he will not return to the touchline anytime soon, as he plans to take a sabbatical, something he has done before in his professional career. In addition, the 55-year-old coach will not leave the City Football Group structure.
As announced by Manchester City, Guardiola will take on the role of Global Ambassador for the City Football Group. In this position, he will provide technical guidance to clubs under the ownership structure such as Manchester City, Girona FC, Palermo FC, ESTAC Troyes, Lommel SK, New York City FC, Esporte Clube Bahia, Montevideo City Torque, Yokohama F. Marinos, Melbourne City, Mumbai City, Shenzhen Peng City FC, and Club Bolívar.
Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City, looks on prior to the Premier League match.
Tottenham enters the final day of the Premier League season with their top-flight status hanging by a thread. The mission is brutally simple: secure at least one point to guarantee survival. A loss, coupled with a West Ham victory over Leeds, would result in a catastrophic relegation to the Championship. The pressure on Roberto De Zerbi’s squad is immense as they face a do-or-die scenario on their home turf, where they have struggled all season.
Everton, meanwhile, arrives in London with the luxury of playing without pressure. A recent six-match winless streak has extinguished their European ambitions, leaving them locked into a mid-table finish. However, David Moyes‘ sides are never ones to coast. The Toffees have been formidable on the road, boasting the league’s third-best away record, and will be motivated to end their season on a high by playing the role of spoilers and confirming Tottenham‘s devastating drop.
Tactical Analysis & Match Context
The season trajectories of these two clubs tell a story of struggle and inconsistency. Tottenham has been plagued by abysmal home form, winning just twice all season, and their underlying metrics are alarming. They possess the fourth-lowest expected goals (xG) in the league, a clear indicator of a team that has failed to create chances consistently. While De Zerbi has brought a slight improvement, a mountain of injuries has hampered any real progress.
Everton‘s campaign has been a tale of two halves. They were positioned as high as 8th after 28 weeks, but their recent slump has been defined by a lack of creativity, with their goal average and xG both falling below the league standard. Tactically, this match presents a classic clash of styles. Tottenham will be expected to dominate possession, utilizing a double pivot of Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur to control the midfield. However, their high defensive line is a glaring weakness that Everton will aim to exploit on the counter-attack.
The motivations couldn’t be more different. For Tottenham, this is a final. The singular goal is to avoid defeat at all costs, which could lead to a tense, cautious approach focused on minimizing risks. For Everton, the objective is to execute a professional away performance. David Moyes’ teams are experts at frustrating opponents, sitting deep, and capitalizing on mistakes. The longer the game remains scoreless, the more the pressure will build on the home side, a dynamic Everton will look to leverage.
Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends
Historically, Tottenham has held the upper hand in this fixture, particularly in recent meetings. Over the last five encounters, Spurs have claimed three victories to Everton‘s one, with a single match ending in a draw. This recent dominance gives Tottenham a psychological edge, despite their dire league position.
Looking at the recent results, Spurs secured a commanding 3-0 victory at Goodison Park earlier this season and thrashed the Toffees 4-0 in their last home meeting in August 2024. Everton’s last victory in this fixture came in January 2025, a narrow 3-2 win on their own turf. The last draw between the sides was a 2-2 thriller in February 2024, highlighting the potential for goals even in tight contests.
Statistically, this matchup has consistently produced goals. The last five games have seen an average of 3.8 goals per game, with three of those five contests featuring four or more total goals. Furthermore, both teams have found the net in three of the last five clashes. While the high stakes of this particular game might suggest a cagey affair, the historical data points towards an open and eventful match.
Squad News & Projected Lineups
Both managers are contending with significant injuries, but Tottenham‘s absentee list is far more damaging as they fight for survival.
Spurs are decimated by injuries to key personnel. Long-term absentees who are out for the season include Cristian Romero, Dejan Kulusevski, Xavi Simons, Mohammed Kudus, and Wilson Odobert. Adding to their woes, Ben Davies and Dominic Solanke are also unavailable, forcing De Zerbi to field a depleted lineup in the most critical match of the year.
Everton is also missing several important players. Midfielder Idrissa Gueye and defender Jarrad Branthwaite are sidelined with muscle and hamstring injuries, respectively, while Jack Grealish is out with a broken foot. While Everton has less at stake, these absences will still impact their ability to field a full-strength side.
Tottenham Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Vicario; Udogie, van de Ven, Danso, Porro; Bentancur, Palhinha; Tel, Gallagher, Kolo Muani; Richarlison. This lineup reflects De Zerbi‘s preferred system, with Palhinha and Bentancur tasked with shielding a vulnerable defense and controlling the game’s tempo. The attacking burden will fall on Richarlison to provide a moment of magic that can secure their Premier League status.
Everton Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Pickford; Mykolenko, Tarkowski, Keane, O’Brien; Iroegbunam, Garner; Ndiaye, Dewsbury-Hall, Rohl; Beto. This is a pragmatic and organized Everton side built to be solid defensively. They will likely cede possession and look to hit on the break, using the physical presence of Beto as a focal point to trouble Tottenham‘s high line.
More details on how to watch
You can watch the Tottenham vs Everton live stream on DirecTV Stream. The service is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and mobile devices, ensuring you can catch the action from anywhere.
In addition to this crucial Premier League match, a subscription toDirecTV Stream gives you access to other top soccer competitions from around the world. Enjoy coverage of La Liga, Liga MX, and major tournaments like the DFB-Pokal.
A subscription to the platform is available for $69.99 per month, providing an affordable way to follow all the season-ending drama. The package offers comprehensive coverage of multiple leagues and sports.
Beyond soccer, the service boasts a deep library of content. Subscribers can watch thousands of movies, popular TV shows, and other live sporting events, making it a complete entertainment package.
If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as Nord VPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming.
Newcastle United'ın eski oyuncusu Chris Waddle, Victor Osimhen'in İngiltere'ye gelmek istemesi durumunda ülkenin en büyük 6 takımının sıraya gireceğini söyledi.
İngiliz ekibi Newcastle United'ın eski futbolcularından Chris Waddle, "Victor Osimhen'i Newcastle United'da görmeyi çok isterim. Türkiye'ye gitmesi beni çok şaşırtmıştı. Şu anda 'Geliyorum' dese Top 6 takımları onun transferi için sıraya girer" açıklamasında bulundu.
İngiltere'nin Top 6 ekipleri; Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City ve Tottenham olarak kabul ediliyor. Victor Osimhen'in Galatasaray'la 30 Haziran 2029 tarihine kadar mukavelesi var. Yönetim onu satmayı düşünmüyor. Oyuncu cephesi de düzenli olarak İstanbul'da mutlu olduğunu söylüyor.
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Galatasaray yaz döneminde kesin olarak bir 10 numara transferi gerçekleştirecek.
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Yeni sezon hazırlıkları kapsamında transfer çalışmalarına hız veren Trabzonspor, Beşiktaş’ın da radarında bulunan Arjantinli genç yıldız için resmi girişimde bulundu. Bordo-mavililerin teklifine Güney...Devamı için tıklayınız
“İmişli”ın baş məşqçisi Xorxe Kaskilya Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasının 33-cü turu çərçivəsində “Karvan”a qarşı keçirdikləri oyunu şərh edib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, sözügedən komandaların bu gün Qubada baş tutmuş görüşü 1:1 hesablı bərabərliklə yekunlaşıb.
Xorxe Kaskilya oyundan sonra təşkil edilmiş mətbuat konfransında bunları söyləyib:
“İstədiyimiz nəticəni qazanmışıq. Futbolçulara, texniki heyətə, klubda çalışan hər kəsə təşəkkür edirəm. Təbii ki, fanatlara da minnətdaram. Mövsüm ərzində uzun yollar qət edərək, bizə dəstək göstərirdilər. Azarkeşlər daim qəlbimdə qalacaqlar. Azərbaycanda olmaqdan məmnunam, həyatımda böyük təcrübə oldu. İstər şəxsi, istərsə də peşəkar biri kimi müsbət düşüncələrim var. “İmişli”yə uğurlar arzu edirəm. Biz bu gün gənc futbolçulara şans verdik. “Karvan”la matçın start heyətində 10 azərbaycanlı yer almışdı. Fikrimcə, nəticə də ədalətli oldu.
Mən bu gecə Portuqaliyaya gedəcəyəm. Gələcək haqda isə heç nə deyə bilmərəm. İndi hələ ki ailəmi düşünürəm.
Mənə digər klublardan heç bir təklif yoxdur. Mətbuatda haqqımda çox xəbərlər yazılıb. Lakin həmin məlumatlar səhvdir. Hətta bir xəbər də yayılmışdı ki, “İmişli”də qalmaq istəmirəm və guya şərtlər yaxşı olmayıb. Bu da doğru deyil.
Azərbaycan çempionatında çıxış edən yerli oyunçuların keyfiyyəti yüksəkdir. Limitin ləğvi ilə çempionatın səviyyəsi də artıb. Yerli oyunçular legionerlərdən çox şey öyrənə bilərlər”.
“Karvan”ın baş məşqçisi Füzuli Məmmədov Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasının 33-cü turunda “İmişli”yə qarşı keçirdikləri oyunu şərh edib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, sözügedən komandaların bu gün Qubada baş tutmuş görüşü 1:1 hesablı bərabərliklə yekunlaşıb.
Füzuli Məmmədov oyundan sonra təşkil edilmiş mətbuat konfransında bunları söyləyib:
“Oyunun turnir cədvəli baxımından heç bir əhəmiyyəti yox idi. Amma futbolçular qalib gəlmək istəyirdilər, meydanda yaxşı mübarizə gördük. Mövsümü bitirdik, ağır yol keçdik. Təəssüf ki, komandamız Birinci Liqaya yuvarlandı. Futbolçular meydanda əziyyət çəkdilər. Bütün mövsümə görə, futbolçularıma “çox sağ ol” deyirəm. Əziyyətə olan hər kəsə minnətdaram. Baxmayaraq ki, istədiyimizə nail ola bilmədik. Amma artıq mövsüm bitdi, hər bir futbolçuya uğurlar arzulayıram.
Birinci Liqaya düşsək də, orada iddialı olmağı və yenidən Premyer Liqaya geri qayıtmağı çox istəyirəm. Yəqin ki, sabah rəhbərliklə bu yöndə görüşümüz olacaq. Təbii ki, mən istədiyim şərtlər, istədiyim tələblər olarsa, komandada qalacağam. Bəli, bu komandada yaxşı futbolçular var ki, bizə Birinci Liqada da kömək edə bilərlər. Şərtlər yaxşı olarsa, futbolçularla danışarıq, onlar komandada qalarlar. Amma öncəlik rəhbərliyin istəyidir. Rəhbərliklə sabahkı görüşümüzdən çox şey asılıdır. Ondan sonra digər məsələlərə qayıdacağıq”.
İsveçin “Yurqorden” klubunun qambiyalı mərkəz hücumçusu Zəkəriyyə Savo bundan sonra “Qarabağ”ın uğurları üçün çalışacaq.
Arena.az bu barədə Ağdam klubunun rəsmi saytına istinadən xəbər verir.
Bildirilir ki, “Qarabağ” növbəti transferini gerçəkləşdirib. İsveçin “Yurqorden” klubu ilə danışıqlar müsbət nəticələnib və Savo “Qarabağ”a keçib.
26 yaşlı hücumçu ilə 3 illik müqavilə imzalanıb. O, Ağdam klubunda 11 nömrəli formanı geyinəcək.
2025-ci ildən “Yurqorden”də çıxış edən forvard 2026-cı ildə icarə əsasında Kipr təmsilçisi AEL-də forma geyinib. Savo Limassol klubunda 22 oyuna 10 qol vurub, 1 məhsuldar ötürmə verib.
İsveç vətəndaşlığı da olan qambiyalı hücumçu karyerası ərzində İsveçdə “Olimpik”, “Rosenqard”, “Oskarshamns”, Norveçdə “Start”, Kiprdə “Aris” kimi klublarda da çıxış edib.
Qeyd edək ki, Savonun “Yurqorden”lə 2028-ci ilin 30 iyununadək müqaviləsi mövcud idi. Bazar dəyəri 550 min avro qiymətləndirilən forvardın Ağdam klubuna müəyyən təzminat qarşılığında keçib. Amma bu barədə detallar açıqlanmır.
Xatırladaq ki, Zəkəriyyə Savo yay transfer pəncərəsində “Qarabağ”a qoşulan ikinci futbolçudur. Ondan öncə Jali Mauddibin keçidi rəsmiləşmişdi.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, İsveçin “Yurqorden” klubu ilə danışıqlar müsbət nəticələnib və Zakria Savo kluba keçib.
26 yaşlı isveçli hücumçu ilə 3 illik müqavilə imzalanıb. 2025-ci ildən “Yurqorden”də çıxış edən forvard 2026-cı ildə icarə əsasında Kipr təmsilçisi AEL-də forma geyinib. O, karyerası ərzində İsveçdə “Olimpik”, “Rosenqard”, “Oskarşamns AIK”, Norveçdə “Start”, Kiprdə “Aris”də çıxış edib.
Qeyd edək ki, Savo yay transfer pəncərəsində komandaya qoşulan ikinci futbolçudur. Onadək Jali Mauddibin keçidi rəsmiləşmişdi.
Portuqaliyalı mütəxəssis Jorj Kaşkilya “İmişli”dən ayrılacaq.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, o, bu barədə “Karvan-Yevlax”la oyundan sonra baş tutan mətbuat konfransında bildirib. Mütəxəssis kluba uğurlar arzu edib.
“Azərbaycanda olmaqdan məmnunam, həyatımda böyük təcrübə oldu. İstər şəxsi, istərsə də peşəkar biri kimi müsbət düşüncələrim var. “İmişli”yə uğurlar arzu edirəm”.
Misli Premyer Liqasının XXXIII turunun “İmişli” – “Karvan-Yevlax” oyunundan (1:1) sonra meydan sahibi komandanın baş məşqçisi Jorj Kaşkilya jurnalistlərin suallarını cavablandırdı.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, mütəxəssis əvvəlcə görüşlə bağlı fikirlərini bölüşdü:
– İstədiyimiz nəticəyə nail olmuşuq. Futbolçulara, texniki heyətə, klubda çalışan hər bir işçiyə təşəkkürümü bildirirəm. Əlbəttə, fanatlara da minnətdaram. Çempionatboyu uzun məsafələr qət edib, bizə dəstək olublar. Bu azarkeşlər daim qəlbimdə olacaq. Azərbaycanda olmaqdan məmnunam, həyatımda böyük təcrübə oldu. İstər şəxsi, istərsə də peşəkar biri kimi müsbət düşüncələrim var. “İmişli”yə uğurlar arzu edirəm. Oyuna gəlincə, gənclərə şans verdik. Start heyətdə 10 azərbaycanlı futbolçu var idi. Ümumi götürəndə, nəticə ədalətlidir.
– Sanki klub və “İmişli” ilə vidalaşırsınız…
– Bu gecə vətənimə qayıdıram. Gələcək barədə heç nə deyə bilmərəm.
– Başqa klublardan təklif var?
– Hələ yox. Hazırda ailəmi düşünürəm.
– Azərbaycan oynayan hansı futbolçu ilə gələcəkdə yenidən birlikdə işləmək istərdiniz?
– Bu suala cavab vermək çətindir. Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasında oynayan yerli futbolçuların keyfiyyəti yüksəkdir. Limitin ləğvi ilə çempionatın səviyyəsi də artıb. Yerli oyunçular legionerlərdən çox şey öyrənə bilər.
– Quba stadionu haqqında tənqidi fikirlər çox oldu. Bu arenadan qaçırsınız?
– Meydança haqqında danışmaq istəmirəm.
– Azərbaycandan hansısa sıfırdan qurulan bir klubdan təklif gəlsə, qəbul edərsiniz? Ya hazır komanda istəyirsiniz?
– “İmişli” haqqında yox, ümumi danışacağam. Hər məşqçi daha yaxşı heyətlə işləmək istəyər. Lakin hər futbolçunu inkişaf etdirmək lazımdır. Suala konkret cavab vermək çətindir. Amma hər məşqçi daha yaxşı şəraitdə işləmək istəyər.
– Adınız “Kəpəz” və “Sumqayıt”la hallanır…
– Heç bir təklif yoxdur. Mətbuatda haqqımda çox xəbərlər gedib, amma hamısı səhvdir. Bir xəbər də çıxmışdı ki, mən “İmişli” ilə davam etmək istəmirəm, şərtlər yaxşı olmayıb. Bunlar düzgün deyil.
Rasmus Hojlund confirms he is ‘very happy to stay here for a long time’ after Napoli bought him outright from Manchester United, but reveals Antonio Conte ‘hasn’t told us’ he’s leaving.
The final game of the season with Udinese kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 17.00 UK time (18.00 CEST).
NAPLES, ITALY – MAY 11: Giovanni Di Lorenzo of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his side first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Bologna FC 1909 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on May 11, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
“I’m very happy to continue here at Napoli. I think I’ve got a good connection with the fans, the players, the staff, manager and the whole football club, so I’m very happy to stay here for a long time,” Hojlund told DAZN Italia.
That agreement was an initial one-season loan worth €6m with an obligation to buy in case of Champions League qualification for another €44m.
There was a barbecue at the Castel Volturno training ground this week, which was seen as a farewell party for coach Conte.
However, when asked what message the tactician had passed on to his players, Hojlund revealed there was no big speech or even statement yet.
“We’ve not been told anything. We had a barbecue during the week, getting some nice food, but that’s everything. You probably know more than me if he’s leaving, because he hasn’t told the squad yet.”
Conte has dropped multiple hints, including this evening before kick-off, that this is his last game with Napoli after two years where he won the Scudetto and Supercoppa Italiana.
Fhuair sinn facal le Rasmus Højlund air thoiseach air a' gheam againn an-diugh.
He won the Scudetto last season, then the Supercoppa Italiana this term, steering his side to Champions League qualification again.
Conte set for Napoli exit
PISA, ITALY – MAY 17: Antonio Conte manager of SSC Napoli celebrates the victory after during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and SSC Napoli at Arena Garibaldi on May 17, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“It is important to get a positive result always, whether it’s the last, first or in between, we must always try to achieve the maximum objective,” Conte told DAZN Italia.
“I said in the post-Pisa press conference that you can only really understand Napoli and what it means for the fans by working here. It is so passionate, and everything gets dialled up to the maximum, which also makes it more difficult than in other clubs.
“Winning here really is more satisfying than anywhere else.”
NAPLES, ITALY – APRIL 24: Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and US Cremonese at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on April 24, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
How does Conte feel going into the final game of his Napoli career?
“My first emotion is the same as usual before games, the first thing I think about is trying to have a good game, get a good result. We must end the season well, because this is a season where in my view we did some very important things that were perhaps under-rated.
“The lads deserve to end the campaign on a positive note,” concluded the coach, who did not push back on the framing of the question.
Today is also the 77th birthday of Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis, who was in the news this week with reports he had turned down an offer worth over €2 billion from an American consortium to buy the club.
Conte has all but confirmed this is his last outing for the Partenopei, having won the Scudetto last season and steered them to second place this time despite a campaign-long injury crisis.
That has finally abated, with only Romelu Lukaku unavailable this evening, as Matteo Politano returns from suspension and Kevin De Bruyne is again only on the bench following a clash of heads in training two weeks ago.
Alessandro Buongiorno and Leonardo Spinazzola are late absentees with knocks to the knees.
Alisson Santos completes the attack with Hojlund and Eljif Elmas, so McTominay and Stanislav Lobotka pull the midfield strings.
PISA, ITALY – MAY 17: Amir Rrahmani of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring a goal with Scott McTominay of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and SSC Napoli at Arena Garibaldi on May 17, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Udinese have impressed this season and hope to finish in the top 10, but are smarting after last week’s 1-0 defeat to Cremonese.
Hassane Kamara is suspended here, with Nicolò Zaniolo, Jurgen Ekkelenkamp, Juan Arizala and Alessandro Zanoli on the treatment table.
Kingsley Ehizibue is back in the squad following his one-match ban, but Davis and Napoli-linked midfielder Arthur Atta start.
The hosts missed Zion Suzuki, Nesta Elphege, Adrian Bernabé, Gaetano Oristanio, Gabriel Strefezza, Enrico Delprato, Benja Cremaschi, Nahuel Estevez, Filippo Rinaldi, Matija Frigan and Jacob Ondrejka. The Neroverdi were without Sebastian Walukiewicz, Aster Vranckx, Daniel Boloca, Filippo Romagna, Fali Candé and Darryl Bakola.
PARMA, ITALY – MAY 24: Fabio Grosso, Head Coach of US Sassuolo Calcio, and Carlos Cuesta, Head Coach of Parma Calcio 1913, pose for a photo prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Ennio Tardini on May 24, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Hans Nicolussi Caviglia and Mateo Pellegrino flashed efforts just wide in the opening minutes, while Daniel Mikolajewski couldn’t keep the finish down after a meek punch.
Lautaro Valenti’s header was also close from a free kick, but Sassuolo finally created a real chance when Edoardo Corvi flapped at the Domenico Berardi free kick, with debutant Tommaso Macchioni failing to turn in the rebound.
Corvi was also decisive to deny Ismael Kone the tap-in, but Armand Laurienté horribly wasted with a scuffed finish when sent clear in a give and go with Berardi.
PARMA, ITALY – MAY 24: Woyo Coulibaly of US Sassuolo Calcio controls the ball while under pressure from Mandela Keita of Parma Calcio 1913 during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Ennio Tardini on May 24, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Jay Idzes had been in doubt and he limped off during the second half, but Stefano Turati flew to fingertip the Nicolussi Caviglia scorcher over the bar.
Pontus Almqvist also saw his curler skim the base of the far post from a tricky angle, but Parma finally broke through when Almqvist stood up a cross from the right for the towering header of Pellegrino.
PARMA, ITALY – MAY 24: Mateo Pellegrino of Parma Calcio 1913 scores his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Ennio Tardini on May 24, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
It was the ninth headed goal of the Serie A season for the Ducali, six of them scored by Pellegrino, more than any other player in the league.
“I gave my all to try to get there, but the coach made other choices,” said Bisseck in his press conference after last night’s 3-3 draw with Bologna.
Bisseck targeted by big clubs
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Yann Bisseck of Inter competes for the ball with Pervis Estupinanof AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
There have been reports of interest from several big clubs this summer too, above all a return to Germany with Bayern Munich.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Bayern Munich are ready to spend big for the centre-back, and Inter are in turn prepared to sacrifice him for the right price.
“I am happy in Milan,” replied the player when questioned on his future.
“It is always flattering to be linked with big clubs, but at this moment I am not thinking about it. I just want to go on vacation now and then we’ll see what happens.”
The 25-year-old was signed from Aarhus for €7.2m plus bonuses in 2023 and this season he scored three goals with three assists in 36 competitive appearances for Inter.
A major Milan summit is taking place today, including Gerry Cardinale, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Geoffrey Moncada and Massimo Calvelli, but not Giorgio Furlani.
The Rossoneri are in action at San Siro tonight against Cagliari at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).
ROME, ITALY – MAY 14: Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Football Advisor at AC Milan, looks on after the team’s defeat in the Coppa Italia Final match between AC Milan and Bologna at Stadio Olimpico on May 14, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Cardinale, who is the head of owner RedBird, flew in from America to be present at the big match this evening.
Before that, he is already dealing with the power struggle behind the scenes, with reported clashes between coach Max Allegri and special advisor Ibrahimovic, then between director of sport Igli Tare and CEO Furlani.
It is believed that two of these men will be pushed out at the end of the season, but which ones remain is not decided yet.
epa11607798 Former AC Milan forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic (L) and chief scout Geoffrey Moncada watch the team’s training session at the club’s Milanello Sports Center in Canargo, Italy, 16 September 2024. EPA-EFE/MATTEO BAZZI
MilanNews and transfer pundit Daniele Longo spotted Ibrahimovic, Cardinale and RedBird Development Group CEO Calvelli at lunch together this afternoon at a noted local hotel.
There could be some very significant Liverpool transfer news coming as Ben Jacobs has posted on X about Ibrahima Konate’s future.
According to Jacobs, a decision on Konate is expected imminently, with there still being no update for now on whether or not the France international will be signing a new contract or leaving on a free transfer this summer.
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See below as Jacobs has posted about Konate being in today’s Liverpool line up, and fans will hope it’s not for the final time…
Mo Salah and Andy Robertson both start in their final game for Liverpool.
Ibrahima Konate also in the XI. Clarity over his future expected imminently.? pic.twitter.com/OYLc3Cf5n2
“Mo Salah and Andy Robertson both start in their final game for Liverpool. Ibrahima Konate also in the XI. Clarity over his future expected imminently,” Jacobs posted on X.
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Liverpool could do with keeping Ibrahima Konate
Even if Konate hasn’t always been at his best this season, the 26-year-old is a key player and not someone you’d want to lose on a free transfer.
Liverpool would do well to strengthen at the back this summer after a disappointing campaign, so that could mean bringing in an upgrade on Konate.
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The Frenchman will be in the Palace team to take on Arsenal at Selhurst Park for the final day of the Premier League season, with journalist Fabrice Hawkins claiming a transfer away is “scheduled” for this summer.
Liverpool and Chelsea have previously been among the clubs linked with Lacroix by TEAMtalk, while there have been further links with the Reds in the Daily Mail.
See below as Hawkins reports that this is indeed set to be Lacroix’s last appearance for the Eagles at Selhurst Park, though he will of course be in Oliver Glasner’s team for the upcoming Europa Conference League final…
Maxence Lacroix s’apprête à jouer son dernier match à Selhurst Park cet après-midi contre Arsenal. Un transfert du défenseur central de Crystal Palace est programmé. Il n’y a pas de discussion avec les Eagles pour prolonger son contrat. Plusieurs clubs de Premier League…
“Maxence Lacroix is set to play his final match at Selhurst Park this afternoon against Arsenal,” Hawkins posted from his official X account.
“A transfer for the Crystal Palace center-back is scheduled. There are no discussions with the Eagles to extend his contract. Several Premier League clubs are interested in the 26-year-old French international.”
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What next for Maxence Lacroix as transfer scheduled?
One imagines there’ll be a lot of interest in Lacroix after his fine form for Palace, and Liverpool makes sense as a destination due to the Merseyside giants’ need for a new central defender.
The 26-year-old could be ideal to give LFC a long-term replacement for the ageing Virgil van Dijk, while there’s also a chance that Ibrahima Konate will be leaving Anfield soon as he nears the end of his contract, though this has not yet been confirmed.
Chelsea striker Joao Pedro is reportedly a genuine transfer target for Barcelona this summer, with some initial exploratory talks even taking place.
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The Brazil international has been superb for Chelsea in his first season for the club, netting a total of 20 goals in 49 appearances in all competitions.
This has led to a lot of speculation about Barca’s interest in Pedro, with the Catalan giants in need of a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski as the veteran Polish forward will be moving on this summer.
Still, Ben Jacobs has posted the following update on X today:
Although Barcelona’s interest in Joao Pedro is genuine, and some exploratory talks have taken place, Chelsea are not prepared to sell.
There is no price that will change the club’s stance this summer, even a world-record bid.?? pic.twitter.com/z2x8va9I3M
The journalist said: “Although Barcelona’s interest in Joao Pedro is genuine, and some exploratory talks have taken place, Chelsea are not prepared to sell. There is no price that will change the club’s stance this summer, even a world-record bid.”
Joao Pedro to Barcelona transfer timeline
See below for a summary of recent reports on Pedro and interest from Barcelona:
Pedro has been a rare success story in the transfer market for Chelsea in recent times, so it makes sense that they’re determined to hold on to him despite Barcelona’s interest.
The 24-year-old looks like he could have a really bright future at Stamford Bridge, so new manager Xabi Alonso will likely want to build his side around him next season and beyond.
Pep Guardiola's time at the helm of Manchester City now over, fans can reflect on what was an all-time great run as manager of the Premier League giants.
Signed in 2016 after stints at Barcelona and Bayern Munich, Guardiola joined City and won every single trophy available to him.
While dominating the Premier League with six league titles in a 10-year span, Guardiola also led City to its first-ever UEFA Champions League title in 2023, a trophy the club craved under City Football Group ownership.
The Sporting News looks at the most decorated managers in English football and where Guardiola falls into the country's overall history. Spoiler alert: it's very, very high.
Unsurprisingly, Sir Alex Ferguson and his record 13 Premier League titles stand atop the trophies list in English football history. He also won 10 Community Shield trophies to help prop up his total, while winning the Champions League twice as well.
Modern football legends are on the list just behind him, as Pep Guardiola sits second and Arsene Wenger third. Historical greats like George Ramsay and Brian Clough are next, while Jose Mourinho sits just behind them.
Below is a list of managers with the most trophies won while at the helm of an English top-flight club.
Manager
Trophies Won
Club(s)
Competition
Titles
Alex Ferguson
38
Man United
Premier League
13
FA Cup
5
EFL Cup
4
UEFA Champions League
2
FA Community Shield
10
FIFA Club World Cup
1
FIFA Intercontinental Cup
1
Pep Guardiola
20
Man City
Premier League
6
FA Cup
3
EFL Cup
5
FA Community Shield
3
UEFA Champions League
1
UEFA Super Cup
1
FIFA Club World Cup
1
Arsene Wenger
17
Arsenal
Premier League
3
FA Cup
7
FA Community Shield
7
George Ramsay
14
Aston Villa
First Division
6
FA Cup
6
FA Charity Shield
2
Brian Clough
12
Derby County, Nottingham Forest
First Division
2
League Cup
4
FA Charity Shield
1
UEFA European Cup
2
UEFA European Super Cup
1
Full Members' Cup
2
Jose Mourinho
11
Chelsea, Man United
Premier League
3
FA Cup
1
EFL Cup
4
FA Community Shield
2
UEFA Europa League
1
Manager with most Premier League titles
Since the inception of the Premier League in 1993, legendary Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has by far the most Premier League titles in football history, winning 13 of them in his illustrious time at Old Trafford.
That also gives him the most English football league titles throughout the history of the nation too, more than the six of Pep Guardiola, George Ramsay, and Bob Paisley who are all tied on second, although only Guardiola coached in the Premier League era.
Manager
Titles won
Club(s)
Alex Ferguson
13
Man United
Pep Guardiola
6
Man City
Jose Mourinho
3
Chelsea
Arsene Wenger
3
Arsenal
Manager with most FA Cup titles
Arsene Wenger won three Premier League titles, but was most successful in the FA Cup where he lifted the trophy a whopping seven times, more than any other manager.
Guardiola, meanwhile, won three FA Cups, which puts him joint-fourth with James Fielding, Charles Foweraker, and Bill Nicholson.
Manager
Titles won
Club(s)
Arsene Wenger
7
Arsenal
George Ramsay
6
Aston Villa
Alex Ferguson
5
Man United
John Nicholson
4
Sheffield United
Manager with most League Cup titles
Pep Guardiola has the most English League Cup (now known as the Carabao Cup for sponsorship reasons) titles in managerial history, having won a whopping five times during his 10 seasons at Manchester City.
Unlike the Premier League/Division One or FA Cup, this competition has been around for a shorter time, first contested in 1960.
The Boston Red Sox are still trying to compete for a playoff spot this season and could look to add some more pop to the lineup.
Boston has gotten off to a slow start this season, but the entire American League has struggled, so the Red Sox are still in playoff contention. With that, MLB insider Buster Olney of ESPN reported on Sunday that Boston is looking to add a right-handed bat ahead of the trade deadline.
“The Red Sox are in the market for a right-handed hitter with thump,” Only wrote on X.
Who exactly Boston would be looking for is uncertain, but the insider believes Craig Breslow and the Red Sox’s front office are looking for a power bat.
Boston’s lineup is missing a power hitter, especially with Roman Anthony and Trevor Story both on the injured list.
As a team, Boston is hitting just .239, which ranks 15th in the majors, while the team only has 36 home runs, which is 29th in the MLB. So, adding another power bat would do wonders for Boston’s lineup and make them that much better.
The Red Sox are off to a 22-29 start and will look to avoid a series sweep by the Minnesota Twins at Fenway Park on Sunday afternoon.
The Chicago Bears will have several position battles to monitor this summer, but one of the more under-the-radar competitions will come at long snapper following Scott Daly's departure in free agency.
The Bears have two young players in first-year pro Luke Elkin and undrafted rookie Beau Gardner vying for the long snapper job. Elkin, an undrafted free agent in 2025, spent last season with Chicago's practice squad, and he has experience playing with punter Tory Taylor at Iowa. Meanwhile, Gardner is coming off six seasons in college and having just won the Patrick Mannelly Award as the nation's top long snapper.
Special teams coordinator Richard Hightower previewed the position battle between Elkin and Gardner, which kicks into gear when the pads come on, where speed and accuracy and just two things he'll be evaluating.
"Those things for sure. Then you have to consider the way they work with the other two players (the kicker and holder) because that's a team," Hightower said, via ChicagoBears.com. "Those three together in operation, you have to make sure that's always flowing smoothly. Then you have to look at the punt piece of it too. That's two guys, the punter and the long snapper. And if they can protect or not. A lot of guys can snap a ball, but not [all of them] can protect. That's often the downfall of long snappers."
It's not to feel that Elkin has the upper hand going into this competition given his experience playing with Taylor for three years at Iowa (2021-23), and the pair already have that working relationship down. But Gardner, who was recognized as college football's best long snapper, certainly has a chance to make a strong impression and earn the job.
MUMBAI, India (AP) — England pacer Jofra Archer put in an all-round performance as Rajasthan Royals advanced to the Indian Premier League playoffs with a 30-run win against Mumbai Indians on Sunday.
Rajasthan’s victory also knocked out Punjab Kings, which had occupied the fourth and last playoff spot, and Kolkata Knight Riders.
Archer hit 32 off 15 balls to help Rajasthan score 205-8 in its must-win final league game, and then took 3-17 in four overs as Mumbai was restricted to 175-9.
Rajasthan (16 points) secured fourth spot — a point ahead of Punjab — with its eighth win in 14 games,
Kolkata (13 points) is sixth and hosts already eliminated Delhi Capitals in Sunday’s late game.
Mumbai finished ninth with 10 losses in 14 games, just above Lucknow on net run-rate.
Coming up
Points table winner and defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will take on second-place Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 on Tuesday at Dharamsala.
Third-place Sunrisers Hyderabad will play Rajasthan in the Eliminator on Wednesday in New Chandigarh, which will also host Qualifier 2 on Friday.
Ahmedabad will host the final next Sunday.
Archer on target with bat and ball
Put into bat, Rajasthan lost 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for four. Yashasvi Jaiswal provided a quick start with 27 off 17 balls, including three sixes.
Rajasthan scored 54-3 in the powerplay – Jaiswal was caught off Will Jacks in the fourth over, with Sooryavanshi out four balls later to Deepak Chahar. Skipper Riyan Parag (14) was caught on the final ball of the powerplay.
Dhruv Jurel (38) and Dasun Shanaka (29) added 45 off 27 balls. Shanaka was run out just past the halfway stage.
Rajasthan slipped to 139-6 in 15.3 overs, with Jurel and Donovan Ferreira (18) losing their wickets.
Archer came to the rescue. He hit three sixes in his 15-ball innings and Ravindra Jadeja scored 19 not out off 11 as Rajasthan eventually crossed 200.
Archer then struck with the ball – Rohit Sharma was caught behind for a duck and Naman Dhir was bowled for six with Mumbai down to 18-2 in 2.3 overs.
Nandre Burger sent back Ryan Rickelton for 12 in the next over and Brijesh Sharma bowled Tilak Varma for three. Mumbai was 38-4 in 5.1 overs and finished the powerplay with 49-4.
Suryakumar Yadav scored 60 off 42 balls – only his second half-century this season – and rebuilt the chase, first with Jacks (33) and then skipper Hardik Pandya (34).
Yadav and Jacks added 63 off 38 balls, and then another 48 off 25 balls with Pandya, as Mumbai fought back.
But Archer returned to have Pandya caught in the 16th over and Mumbai's hopes faded.
Yadav was out caught in the 18th over as Mumbai’s disappointing season approached its end. Burger finished with 2-43, while Sharma took 2-26 and wrist spinner Yash Raj Punja 2-44.
Álex Palou, the four-time IndyCar Series champion who broke through with his first Indianapolis 500 victory last year, starts from the pole on Sunday for the 110th running of The Greatest Spectacle in Racing at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
May 22, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; IndyCar Series driver Santino Ferrucci during Carb Day final practice for the Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
How to Watch The 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500
Palou held off David Malukas at the finish in 2025 by 1.1426 seconds to head to Victory Lane for the first time at Indy on his way to his third consecutive series title. He arrived in Indianapolis with a 27-point lead over Kyle Kirkwood in the standings and has three wins in six starts this season. Malukas sits third with a 52-point gap, with Christian Lundgaard 55 points behind and Josef Newgarden facing a margin of 75 points.
The front row for Sunday’s race includes Palou, Alexander Rossi, and Malukas, with Felix Rosenqvist, Santino Ferrucci, and Pato O’Ward on Row 2. Kyffin Simpson, Conor Daly, and Scott McLaughlin make up the third row while Scott Dixon, Rinus Veekay, and Takuma Sato start on Row 4.
Lundgaard comes off a win at the last stop on the series, the Sonsio Grand Prix at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course on May 9.
The full 2026 NTT IndyCar Series schedule airs on FOX, which is available to stream live now on Fubo. Start your free trial now to get started watching!
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We’ve got an incredible NBA postseason matchup today between the San Antonio Spurs and the Oklahoma City Thunder. If you’re like me and always looking for a solid edge when handicapping the games, there’s nothing better than padding your bankroll with house money. Right now, new customers can take advantage of the latest OG promo code offer here: get up to a $100 sign-up bonus when you register and meet the platform's requirements.
There’s no specific OG promo code to memorize or type in. You just need to follow the links provided in this guide to claim your offer. We can use this up to $100 bonus to get in on today’s Spurs-Thunder action, any other NBA games this weekend, or even take a swing at futures trades, like picking either the Thunder or the Spurs to win the Finals. Let's get our strategy straight and secure that nice payday.
OG Promo Code: Details of the Welcome Offer
Claiming your bonus is as simple as it gets. Use the details below to understand the offer before the Spurs and Thunder hit the court at Frost Bank Center:
OG Promo Code
Click the Links Provided (No Code Required)
New User Offer
Up to $100 Bonus
Date Last Verified
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As the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder prepare to clash in this pivotal postseason game, new OG customers have a real chance to maximize their starting bankroll. By registering through our links and making a first-time deposit of at least $1, you will be well on your way to claiming up to a $100 sign-up bonus to use on the action.
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Making Trades on Game 4 in San Antonio
Team
Probability
San Antonio Spurs
53.0%
Oklahoma City Thunder
47.0%
If we place a $10 trade on the favored San Antonio Spurs, a victorious outcome nets a profit of $8.13. On the flip side, backing the underdog Oklahoma City Thunder with that same $10 trade returns a $10.40 profit if they can secure the upset on the road.
When evaluating which team represents the better bet, I always look at the underlying stats, and these highlight two closely matched rosters with very different strengths. The Thunder boast a superior Net Rate of 14.3 compared to the Spurs' 11.7, meaning Oklahoma City has been much more efficient at outscoring opponents per 100 possessions.
However, San Antonio absolutely commands the glass, posting a Total Rebound Percentage of 53.1% against Oklahoma City's 50.1%. While the Thunder might dictate the game's overall scoring efficiency, the Spurs' ability to secure available rebounds and cash in on second-chance opportunities makes them a very worthy favorite on their home court.
How to Activate This OG Promo Code Offer
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Keep in mind that you don't have to put all your eggs in one basket. You can spread your predictions across multiple different markets—for example, making a few smaller trades on today's Spurs-Thunder game, or looking ahead and placing futures on either squad to take home the Finals trophy. Once you meet the straightforward trading requirements, your bonus will be unlocked and waiting in your account for the next big play.
Summer is here, sort of, and it is everyone’s favorite time of the year, scouting time. Every year, we do Summer Scouting to preview college football for Vikings fans, but also give them an idea of names to follow and watch in the fall as needs pop up for Minnesota.
Are we going to write about quarterbacks? Offensive tackles? Edge rushers? You know it, but why? Because other NFL teams will draft them, just as they will draft every other position. It all matters whether these players end up on the Vikings, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Vikings fans can be the most informed fans.
So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.
Film
Miami (FL)
Texas A&M
Background Info
Listed at 6-2/235 lbs.
4-Star recruit according to 247 Sports
Mr. Football in Indiana in high school
Indiana Gatorade Player of the Year x2
Played running back and linebacker in high school
Top-ten baseball recruit out of high school
Played football and baseball at Notre Dame
Notable career stats heading into 2026
159 tackles
13.5 combined tackles for a loss and sacks
Generated 4 turnovers
Notable numbers from PFF heading into 2026
78 Career PFF Run Defense Grade
65.5 Career PFF Coverage Grade
18 Hurries
Missed tackle rate of 10.7%
60 Stops
Strengths
Physical tackler who patrols the middle of the field
High motor player who roams with a purpose
Rangy in both the run and pass game
Unique athlete for the position
Good awareness to always be in a position to make a play
Player Summary
His athleticism pops off on film whenever he is working his way in coverage and supporting the run. He is rangy and efficient in covering ground in defending the run and pass, not quite sideline-to-sideline range, but darn close. Bowen is a physical tackler who can make his presence known in the middle of the field to affect routes. He needs to work on some technical things, but his base as a prospect heading into 2026 is enough that he could be a project worth investing in for a coaching staff in 2027.
After trading away their best player, a unique talent when he is at his best in Dexter Lawrence, can the New York Giants find a way to be better on the defensive line in 2026? Let’s examine the question as we continue our position-by-position “better or worse” series.
Key additions: D.J. Reader, Shelby Harris, Zacch Pickens, Sam Roberts, Leki Fotu, Bobby Jamison-Travis
The roster: Darius Alexander, Anquin Barnes Jr., Ben Barten, Leki Fotu, Chauncey Golston, Shelby Harris, Bobby Jamison-Travis, Zacch Pickens, D.J. Reader, Sam Roberts
*** Rookies in bold
Why they could be better
With the trade of Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals and the loss of 17-game starter Roy Robertson-Harris for the season to a torn Achilles tendon, this is not an easy case to make.
They “could” be better, though, because they “could” have more depth. And, they “could” get better play from a couple of returning players.
Veteran nose tackle D.J. Reader is about as well as the Giants could have done in finding a replacement for Lawrence. Reader will never be the player the 2022-2024 version of Lawrence was, but can be a reasonable facsimile of the run defender Lawrence was in 2025.
The 35-year-old Harris vs. the 32-year-old Nunez-Roches is probably a wash. Maybe Jamison-Travis is a better nose tackle backup for Reader than Davidson was for Lawrence.
Pickens, Roberts, and Fotu have all had nondescript careers to this point. The Giants have to hope to get adequate rotational play from at least a couple of them.
Maybe the biggest hope for improvement lies in holdovers Alexander and Golston.
A third-round pick a year ago, it took a while for Alexander to earn consistent playing time. The 6-foot-4, 310-pound Alexander’s run defense (30.3 Pro Football Focus grade) left much to be desired as a rookie. Entering his age 26 season, Alexander doesn’t have a lot of time for development. His run defense is either going to get better or he isn’t going to find a lot of playing time.
The signing of Golston as a free agent last offseason was looked at as an excellent move. Unfortunately, injuries and the drafting of Abdul Carter limited him to just 10 games and a career-low 174 defensive snaps. The injury to Robertson-Harris could open the door to the 6-5, 277-pound Golston seeing full-time duty as a base 3-4 defensive end, and more snaps for Golston could be a good thing for the Giants’ defense.
There is one other factor — coaching.
Under then-defensive coordinator Shane Bowen, the Giants’ 2025 run defense was the worst in the NFL. After Bowen was fired and Charlie Bullen placed in charge, that facet of the defense improved dramatically. Dennard Wilson is now the defensive coordinator, with Bullen as outside linebackers coach and run game coordinator. With Lawrence gone, this group will not have a star. With Wilson and Bullen, it might, though, have a better plan.
Lawrence, at his best, has done things no man his size should do from the nose tackle position. The Giants cannot replace him with a single player who is equally as talented. He wanted out of New York, and the Giants did the right thing by obliging — as head coach John Harbaugh said, you want players who want to be on your team. Still, losing Lawrence was unfortunate.
Maybe Reader, a sixth-round pick in Jamison-Travis and scheme, isn’t enough to make up for the loss of Lawrence. Maybe Golston and Alexander don’t give the Giants more this season. Maybe the loss of Robertson-Harris is felt more than we want to believe. Maybe none of the journeyman free agents or undrafted players the Giants signed will prove to be reliable rotational pieces.
The verdict
Harbaugh has said he wants to build the best offensive and defensive lines in the NFL. Losing Lawrence was not the way he had hoped to start building the defensive line. The Giants did a good job in collecting options on the line after trading Lawrence. Did they do a good job actually collecting talent? Only time will tell.
There is no way to credibly say they are better now than they were last year on the defensive line. They are less talented than they were with Lawrence and Robertson-Harris. That is undeniable. Could they end up playing better as an overall group? Yes, but that is something they are going to have to prove.
Summer is here, sort of, and it is everyone’s favorite time of the year, scouting time. Every year, we do Summer Scouting to preview college football for Vikings fans, but also give them an idea of names to follow and watch in the fall as needs pop up for Minnesota.
Are we going to write about quarterbacks? Offensive tackles? Edge rushers? You know it, but why? Because other NFL teams will draft them, just as they will draft every other position. It all matters whether these players end up on the Vikings, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Vikings fans can be the most informed fans.
So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.
Film
Clemson
Ole Miss
South Carolina
Background Info
Listed at 6-2/225 lbs.
4-Star recruit according to 247 Sports
Invited to the All-American Bowl in High School
First-Team All-SEC in 2024
Dad played for Georgia
Notable career stats heading into 2026
115 tackles
21.5 combined tackles for a loss and sacks
Generated 3 turnovers
Notable numbers from PFF heading into 2026
68.4 Career PFF Run Defense Grade
56.6 Career PFF Coverage Grade
28 Hurries
Missed tackle rate of 12.7%
88 Stops
Strengths
Leader in the middle of the defense
Has sideline-to-sideline speed and range
Physical tackler who doesn’t allow runners to break through him
Decent coverage ability
Processes everything quickly and efficiently
Player Summary
Whit Weeks is a really fun linebacker prospect as he plays with literally every ounce of his being. Not many more players use the effort that he does, and as a result, he overcomes some shortcomings. What he showed on top of that effort was the ability to move sideline to sideline, provide decent zone coverage, and play a controlled physical style. All of that rolls him into one of the safer linebacker prospects this next draft cycle with some upside to boot.
Thanks to skyrocketing financial might over the past two decades, the Premier League has emerged as a behemoth among European competitions.
While the best teams in England must still battle tooth and nail for European silverware, the Premier League has proven its superiority in terms of depth.
The likes of Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool and England's other top clubs have largely met their match against other European giants across UEFA's top leagues, but the league's ability to place its other clubs in European competitions and perform at every level makes it a titan among the forest.
As more English clubs enjoy success on the European stage, the league continues to gain more qualifying places across UEFA competitions, and 2025/26 is no different.
The Sporting News takes a look at which clubs are in the hunt for Champions League, Europa League and Conference League qualification, and what potential scenarios could play out to help the most English clubs find themselves among European tournament fields next season.
Which Premier League teams have qualified for Europe?
As things stand, the following teams are in a position in the Premier League to qualify for European football in 2026/27:
Bold = already qualified for that competition
UEFA Champions League
Arsenal
Manchester City
Manchester United
Aston Villa
Liverpool
UEFA Europa League
Bournemouth
Brighton and Hove Albion
UEFA Conference League
Chelsea
Premier League standings in race for Europe
Here is a breakdown of the Premier League teams seeking to qualify for Europe in 2025/26.
Rankings and places updated ahead of all final-day matches on May 24.
Champions League
Pos
Club
GP
Pts
W-D-L
GD
1.
Arsenal
37
82
25-7-5
+43
2.
Man City
37
78
23-9-5
+43
3.
Man United
37
68
19-11-7
+16
4.
Aston Villa
37
62
18-8-11
+6
5.
Liverpool
37
59
17-8-12
+10
Europa League
Pos
Club
GP
Pts
W-D-L
GD
6.
Bournemouth
37
56
13-17-7
+4
7.
Brighton
37
53
14-11-12
+9
Conference League
Pos
Club
GP
Pts
W-D-L
GD
8.
Chelsea
37
52
14-10-13
+7
Outside the qualifying positions — In the hunt
Pos
Club
GP
Pts
W-D-L
GD
9.
Brentford
37
52
14-10-13
+3
10.
Sunderland
37
51
13-12-12
-7
11.
Everton
37
49
13-10-14
-2
12.
Fulham
37
49
14-7-16
-6
How the Premier League's European qualifying places can change
Throughout the course of the season, many things can affect how the Premier League hands out its various European qualifying places.
So far, with two full matchweeks remaining to be played and still the FA Cup final to be contested, a number of things can change moving forward.
Here is a look at what has already been decided up to this point, and what can still be determined moving forward.
Will the Premier League get a fifth Champions League place?
With the reorganisation of the Champions League to the Swiss Model, UEFA has earmarked two places in the Champions League group stage to be given to teams from the two best-performing associations across European competition the previous season. This is known as the European Performance Spot
The Premier League has already mathematically confirmed a fifth spot in next year's Champions League competition, one of two leagues to be given an extra slot.
What happens if a Premier League team wins a European title?
The winner of each European competition in 2025/26 will earn an automatic berth in the competition above the one they won. If a Premier League club wins a European competition and has already qualified via the table, its place will fall to the next club that has not already qualified for the indicated competition.
A total of six Premier League clubs theoretically could qualify for the Champions League, with the additional fifth-place slot plus Aston Villa potentially winning the Europa League after failing to secure a Champions League berth through table finish.
If a Premier League team wins the Champions League or Europa League title while having qualified already via table position (namely, Arsenal win the Champions League or Aston Villa win the Europa League while finishing in the top four domestically), it would not affect the European qualifying places for England next season.
However, if Villa finish in fifth place and beat Freiburg in Europa League on May 20, the team finishing sixth WOULD qualify for the Champions League.
This is because fifth is not a designated Champions League place, but awarded as the European Performance Spot. If Villa finish fifth having already qualified for the Champions League through winning the Europa League, then the EPS will be passed down to sixth.
This is because if one of these two European winners have already qualified via table position in their respective domestic league, the extra slot does not fall to another team in their association. Instead, their place in the league phase falls to the reigning European domestic champion with the highest individual club coefficient that has not already qualified directly to the league phase. If the team in sixth ends up in the Champions League, that Europa League spot will not drop down to seventh position. It will instead be passed on to another country.
A similar situation will occur in relation to a Champions League spot if Villa win the Europa League but finish above Liverpool in fourth. In this instance, the highest-ranked club from outside the top-10 European leagues (currently Shakhtar Donetsk from Ukraine) would be upgraded to guaranteed league-phase qualification. From there, the upgrades trickle all the way down, qualifying until an extra team is added to the early stages of qualification that would otherwise not have been included.
How does the FA Cup winner affect European qualification?
The winners of the FA Cup qualify automatically for the Europa League league phase.
IF the winner of the FA Cup has already qualified for the Champions League or Europa League via table position, this qualifying position will fall to the next-highest team in the table not to have qualified for the Europa League.
As Man City won the FA Cup in 2025/26 and had already qualified for the Champions League via their league position, seventh place in the league standings now carries Europa League qualification.
How does the Carabao Cup winner affect European qualification?
City also won the 2025/26 EFL Cup, meaning they would have an automatic route into the Conference League playoff round.
However, because of the circumstances detailed above, eighth place in the Premier League is now a Conference League position.
How many Premier League clubs could qualify for Europe?
A high number of English clubs could potentially be playing in Europe next season.
At minimum, the Premier League will see eight teams qualify for Europe. The base number each season is seven, with the additional Champions League place they have already earned added to the mix.
Across all three European competitions, the maximum number of clubs that could potentially qualify is 10. However, there is only one specific scenario in which that could occur.
Aston Villa win the Europa League title but finish exactly fifth in the Premier League table.
Crystal Palace win the Conference League title.
In this scenario, the following European places would be handed out as such:
Champions League (6):
Arsenal
Man City
Man United
4th place in Premier League table
6th place in Premier League table
Aston Villa (Europa League winners)
Europa League (3):
7th place in Premier League table
8th place in Premier League table (via FA Cup winners Man City)
Crystal Palace (Conference League winners)
Conference League (1):
9th place in Premier League table
If Aston Villa finish top four, then England would have eight or nine participants in Europe regardless of their fate in the Europa League final. Only Crystal Palace's finish in the Conference League final would affect the number of qualifiers.
How the Premier League could get six Champions League places
There is one particular scenario which would see sixth place in the Premier League table awarded a Champions League qualifying spot.
Should Aston Villa finish top four and win the Europa League title, their Champions League qualifying spot for winning the Europa League crown would fall to another club in Europe, per UEFA rules. This is because no league can earn an "extra" Champions League place for their member nation by qualifying twice.
However, should Aston Villa finish outside the top four and win the Europa League, they would qualify for the Champions League via their European title.
In this scenario, the fifth Champions League place awarded to England by UEFA for European performance is not locked into the fifth-place finisher. Instead, it is awarded to the "highest-placed team not already qualified for the competition," it would fall to sixth place in the standings. This is almost always given to the fifth-place qualifier, but if Aston Villa secure a Champions League place by other means, the fifth performance-based Champions League place would fall to the sixth-place finisher.
Jofra Archer starred for Rajasthan Royals as they secured the final play-off spot in the Indian Premier League with a 30-run win over Mumbai Indians.
The England seamer struck 32 from 15 balls in the Royals innings, then returned figures of 3-17 as Mumbai closed on 175-9 chasing 206.
The result sees Archer's side leapfrog Punjab Kings into fourth place and also knocks Kolkata Knight Riders, who cannot reach Royals' total of 16 points, out of play-off contention before their Sunday match with Delhi Capitals is completed.
Royals slipped from 33-0 to 33-2 after being put into bat, losing 15-year-old opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for four and his partner Yashasvi Jaiswal, caught off the bowling of Will Jacks, for 27.
The middle-order all chipped in runs, with Dhruv Jurel top-scoring with 38, while Archer was promoted up the order to seven and provided acceleration with three sixes late in the innings as Royals finished on 205-8.
Archer swiftly removed the openers in Mumbai's reply, dismissing Rohit Sharma for a duck from the fourth ball of the innings and bowling Naman Dhir for six in the third over.
Suryakumar Yadav scored 60 for the home side, helping them to recover from 33-4 via 63 and 48-run partnerships with Jacks (33) and captain Hardik Pandya (34).
Archer returned to break-up the latter pairing, having Pandya caught by Nandre Burger, and Yadav was dismissed two overs later as Mumbai lost four wickets for 18 runs on their way to defeat.
Mumbai finish their campaign in ninth with four wins and 10 defeats, while Royals will now face third-placed Sunrisers Hyderabad in their first play-off match on 27 May.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans, who finished first and second respectively, will play each other on 26 May, with the winners progressing straight to the final on 31 May.
The losers face the victors of Royals-Sunrisers on 29 May for the second place in the final.
Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah are playing for Liverpool for the final time (Paul ELLIS)
Mohamed Salah was in the starting line-up in his Liverpool farewell against Brentford on Sunday, days after making explosive comments about the team's playing style under manager Arne Slot.
The "Egyptian King" leaves Anfield after a glittering nine-year spell at the club, bidding farewell alongside Scotland defender Andy Robertson, who also joined in 2017.
Salah, 33, was last to emerge from the tunnel into bright sunshine at Anfield, accompanied by his two daughters. Robertson, 32, was accompanied by his three children.
Both names were met with a deafening roar when introduced by the stadium announcer in a party atmosphere.
Banners in the crowd celebrated both players, one saying "Thank you legends". Another said: "We Have Gone From Great To Glory. Salah Is Our King".
In a social media post following last week's defeat at Aston Villa, Egypt forward Salah said he wanted to see a return to "heavy metal football", referring to the approach under former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp.
The post was liked by multiple members of the current squad, who have endured a painful campaign after winning the Premier League last season.
Slot, speaking on Friday, said he did not think Salah's comments had undermined him.
"I think Mo was really happy with the style we played last year as it lead to us winning the league," he said in a pointed remark.
"Football has changed, football has evolved but we both want what is best for Liverpool and that is for us to compete for trophies, which we haven't done this season."
Salah has scored 257 goals since his arrival at Anfield, behind only Ian Rush (346) and Roger Hunt (285) in Liverpool's list of leading goalscorers.
He has also won multiple trophies at the club including the Champions League and two Premier League titles.
Salah, whose departure was announced in March, told reporters in December his relationship with Slot had broken down.
He was the Premier League's top-scorer last season, with 29 goals, but his form has dipped dramatically in the current campaign and he has managed just seven goals in the league.
Liverpool are set to take the fifth Champions League spot. They went into Sunday's final day of the Premier Leage season three points ahead of sixth-placed Bournemouth with a significantly better goal difference.
🔵 Premier League, LIVE table | Tottenham all to play for in 90 mins 🤯
The Premier League is ready to deliver its final verdicts after the one that came last week, which crowned Arsenal champions after 22 years. However, the other English teams that will take part in next season’s Champions League still have to be decided - with the possibility of sending as many as six teams into Europe’s top competition - as well as the last team that will instead be forced to start again from the Championship.
With this in mind, all eyes are on Tottenham led by Roberto De Zerbi. Spurs have 38 points, two more than West Ham, and a clearly superior goal difference, -10 compared to -22.
Baltimore — The Tigers on Sunday placed left-handed reliever Brant Hurter on the 15-day injured list.
Hurter tweaked his lower back after making a pitch in the fifth inning Friday night. The initial diagnosis is lumbar spine inflammation.
“He’s going to get further evaluation to see the extent of it,” manager AJ Hinch said. “But it’s enough to where he needs to go on the injured list.”
Hurter was pitching on a wet mound Friday and Hinch was asked if that was a factor in the injury.
“I don’t know; I hope not,” Hinch said. “Nobody wants any injury at any point. We did play through tough conditions, but I don’t want to speculate whether that had anything to do with it. There were no other major incidents in the game. I mean, maybe, but I don’t feel like it’s fair to say it was that.”
Hurter did not make himself available for comment.
Right-hander Ricky Vanasco, who was optioned to Triple-A Toledo on May 15, was recalled to replace Hurter on the active roster.
The Tigers also called up left-hander Drew Sommers to serve as the 27th man for both games of the doubleheader Sunday.
Sommers, who debuted with the Tigers last season, has a 3.10 ERA with the Mud Hens, with 33 strikeouts and 11 walks in 20.1 innings.
“It’s tough to lose Brant,” Hinch said. “He’s part of our attack plan against every lineup. Especially against lefties. This is a place (against the Orioles) where he was used a lot because of the Orioles’ left-handed roster. I trust him. He’s a tough look. He can go long and he can go short.
“It’s just another injury we need to deal with.”
The Tigers are expected to make another roster move between games Sunday. Right-hander Troy Melton is expected to be activated off the 60-day IL and make the start in Game 2. That will require corresponding moves both on the active roster and 40-man roster.
Kamara entered the game in the first inning as a pinch-runner and trotted to the plate on a home run by the Bananas’ Dan Oberst. The Texas Tailgaters earned a 4-3 victory over Savannah before the second-largest crowd in Banana Ball history.
After being introduced, Kamara came skipping onto the field to hype up the crowd. As he got to first base, Kamara faked a hamstring injury before launching into a dance battle with Bananas first-base dance coach Maceo Harrison to “Walk It Out” by DJ Unk.
Kamara’s contract status
The reception he got Saturday in Tennessee probably felt especially good for the 30-year-old Kamara considering his uncertain NFL future.
The nine-year pro is entering the final year of his contract after a subpar 2025 season. Kamara missed the final six games of the campaign after suffering an MCL sprain on Nov. 23. He finished with career lows in rushing yards (471) and receiving yards (178) and scored just one touchdown.
Last week, Saints GM Mickey Loomis was noncommittal about Kamara’s future in New Orleans. The versatile back has a $10.5 million cap hit for 2026 and is a candidate for release after June 1.
“We’re just trying to see how he’s going to fit on our roster,” Loomis said, per NFL.com. “Obviously there’s a resource management element to it. We’ll get to that over the next week or two.”
As she enters her third year in the WNBA, Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark is finally getting an opportunity to be the Grand Marshal in the Indy 500.
Clark was officially named the Grand Marshal on Tuesday of last week for the event that will take place on Sunday afternoon.
“Since being drafted by the Fever, fans have been clamoring to share the epic celebration and thrilling excitement of Indy 500 Race Day with Caitlin,” INDYCAR and IMS president J. Douglas Boles said. “Through our incredible partnership with Gainbridge, everyone joining us for the world’s largest single-day spectator sporting event will get to do just that. Caitlin will bring unique energy and presence to a quintessentially Hoosier experience and an absolutely bucket list global sporting spectacle.”
“I’m honored to represent Gainbridge as Grand Marshal of the Indy 500,” Clark said in a statement. “I’m looking forward to experiencing an iconic piece of what makes Indiana so special and being part of the time-honored tradition of ‘The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.'”
Ahead of taking on her responsibility at the Indy 500 on Sunday, Clark walked the red carpet and signed autographs for fans in the process.
Why Caitlin Clark hasn’t been Indy 500 Grand Marshal before
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) reacts to the action during Fever’s season opener game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Credit: Imagn Images.
With Clark being the biggest star in the WNBA, arguably the biggest active sports figure in the state of Indiana and one of the most recognizable sports figures on the planet, it’s surprising she hasn’t gotten this honor before.
However, there’s a good explanation for that. The Fever’s schedule has conflicted with the race in the past, which has left Clark unable to participate.
This year’s race falls at the perfect time because the Fever don’t have another game until Thursday, when they travel to the west coast to take on the Golden State Valkyries.
“I’m not sure if she’s been yet or not, but to experience that as the grand marshal, it’s one of the highest honors you can get in the state of Indiana,” Fever coach Stephanie White said.
What does the Grand Marshal do?
Indianapolis, IN, USA; Detailed view of the 104th Running of the Indianapolis 500 logo during IndyCar Series qualifying for the 104th Running of the Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
In her role as the Grand Marshal for the race, Clark is going to be tasked with giving the command for drivers to report to their cars before the 110th Indy 500 begins.
At around 12:29 p.m. ET, you’ll hear Clark say: “Drivers, to your cars!”
Several sports figures have taken on the role over the years, including Peyton Manning, Larry Bird, Reggie Miller and President Gerald Ford.
The most notable WNBA player to have the honor was Hall of Famer Tamika Catchings, who spent her entire career with the Fever.
After Clark does her duty as Grand Marshal, the Indy 500 will begin at about 12:45 p.m. ET.
The Jets have four quarterbacks on the roster. Beyond once-and-current starter Geno Smith, there are major questions about the depth chart.
They added Bailey Zappe, who has nine career starts between stints with New England and Cleveland, after the 2025 season. They have Brady Cook, who started four games last year as an undrafted rookie.
And they added fourth-round rookie Cade Klubnik, who slid to round four after entering the 2025 college football season as a potential first-round draft pick.
As explained by Rich Cimini of ESPN, the Jets want to see what Klubnik can do in the upcoming OTAs before possibly adding a more established veteran backup.
They've met with Russell Wilson, who says he’s weighing an offer with the Jets against an opportunity at CBS. (To date, he has accepted neither.)
Klubnik, as Cimini notes, looked good at the rookie minicamp. It will be a tougher test during practices including veteran players. If he passes, the Jets could eventually decide to make him the primary understudy to Smith for 2026.
Which would lay the foundation for Klubnik eventually becoming the starter for the Jets.
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kaleb Johnson may have been responsible for one of the biggest rookie blunders in NFL history, but he's apparently ready to turn the page on his 2025 season following a strong performance at OTAs.
On a new episode of Steel City Insider, Jim Wexell reported that he was wowed by Johnson's performance at OTAs and believes the young running back made massive improvements heading into Year 2.
“Kaleb Johnson has gotten first-team reps, and he looks like he’s all business,” Wexell said. “He looks like a guy that wants to make amends. … As a rookie, he couldn't pick up blitzes. And his pass-catching looks a lot better this year, let me tell you that. Now, what does he know about picking up blitzes now? Probably has been working on it. He's probably been working on his faults. There's a guy who's totally determined — would not surprise me if he shines in preseason."
Johnson, who was selected by the Steelers with the 83rd overall pick in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, failed to make an impact in his rookie season, recording 69 rushing yards on 28 attempts with limited playing time behind Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell.
Despite his strong showing at OTAs and the departure of Gainwell, Johnson still faces an uphill battle for snaps, as Warren and new Steelers running back Rico Dowdle are expected to control the workload this upcoming season.
For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.
Sam Curran starred with the bat as Surrey eased to a six-wicket win over Middlesex at Lord's, with older brother Tom chipping in with one of the most bizarre dismissals seen in the Blast.
Needing 144 for victory after a hapless Middlesex batting display, Surrey were momentarily wobbling at 18-2 before Sam Curran's unbeaten 71 and an 88-run partnership with Laurie Evans steered them home.
Yet the match also featured one of the strangest dismissals, when Ryan Higgins lost a grip on his bat trying to drive Tom Curran to the rope only for the bat to loop up back over his head and land on his stumps.
Higgins' comedic exit rather summed up a performance from Middlesex which failed to gather momentum - and when it did tripped over its own feet.
After a decent start at 37-0, Middlesex lost three wickets in four deliveries, with Jordan Clark dismissing Adam Rossington with the final ball of the fifth over and Reece Topley taking two in three balls at the start of the sixth.
Middlesex never really recovered from those blows, with only Luke Hollman (35*) and Eathan Bosch (31) belatedly nudging up the total with some late-order hitting.
Surrey made a stodgy start to their reply, with Noah Cornwell removing Jason Roy (the opener made two from 13 balls) and Tom Helm taking 2-24.
But with Sam Curran and Evans combining for the fifth wicket and striking nine fours and six sixes between them, Surrey were able to ease home.
The Mets are doing little to pad their stature in the NL East.
After a series split against the Nationals last week, the Mets have ensured that they will drop their first series of the season to the Marlins. They dropped the first two games of the series after scoring two combined runs on six hits in two defeats.
Now, the Mets will be looking to avoid a sweep in the series finale at 1:40 p.m. on Sunday afternoon at loanDepot Park.
The Mets scored one run on Friday on a first-inning Juan Soto home run. One night later, the Mets waited until the ninth inning to break through on a Mark Vientos RBI single.
NY Mets, Marlins probable starting pitchers for today
Christian Scott will be returning to his home state as he faces the Marlins on Sunday afternoon.
Scott has made five starts this season, registering a 0-0 record with a 4.12 ERA and 1.47 WHIP. He allowed three earned runs on four hits and three walks with five strikeouts in his last start against the Nationals.
The Marlins are rolling with a long reliever in 28-year-old Tyler Phillips. The right-hander, who is a South Jersey native, has made 15 appearances, allowing four earned runs in 30 innings (1.20 ERA) with a 1.27 WHIP and 27 strikeouts.
Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya won the toss and elected to bowl first against Rajasthan Royals in a high-stakes IPL 2026 encounter at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday. While Mumbai are already out of playoff contention, the match carries massive importance for Rajasthan, who can directly qualify for the playoffs with a victory and avoid depending on other results.
RR skipper Riyan Parag admitted the team is treating the contest like a virtual knockout and stressed the importance of capitalising on the opportunity in front of them.
''We would have bowled first as well. We know this could be our last game of the season and we want to play as if it is, aiming for the win. If you look at the season overall, there have been some terrific performances. Everything that we've put together so far this season has really been an inspiration. I feel all the praise, all the energy that went into this tournament, this is the right time, the right opportunity. Just really maximise those opportunities, go ahead and win. Toda is a must win, if we win, we qualify and won't need any help from the other match. Three changes - Nandre (Burger) comes in, so does (Ravindra) Jadeja and myself,'' Parag said at the toss.RR made three changes to their playing XI, bringing in Nandre Burger, Ravindra Jadeja and Parag himself.
Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya said Mumbai chose to chase because of the expected improvement in batting conditions later in the evening.
''We will bowl first. It looks like a good track and it tends to get better in the evening. It's a very special day, overall, the Reliance Foundation has helped and impacted 29 lakh people. It’s a privilege to be part of this. Every year we come here, we know this specific game will have the loudest and best atmosphere. We just want to play good cricket for the kids and make sure they leave with some great memories. The pitch looks hard and it should get better once the sun goes down. It’s been a tough season for us, but we want to finish on a high. Jassi (Jasprit Bumbrah) is resting and Deepak Chahar is in,'' Hardik said at the toss
Mumbai also made a key change to their lineup, resting Jasprit Bumrah while bringing back Deepak Chahar into the playing XI.
📸 Arsenal receive guard of honour as newly-crowned PL champion
Arsenal's celebration as newly-crowned Premier League champions continued in the run-up to their clash with Crystal Palace.
Before locking horns with Olivier Glasner's Europa Conference League finalists, the Gunners received a traditional guard of honour at Selhurst Park.
It's been a long time coming for Arsenal, with the process now complete under Mikel Arteta as the club ended its 22-year league trophy drought.
Featuring a heavily rotated side on the final day ahead of their Champions League final meeting with Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest, a sunny Sunday afternoon was the picture-perfect ending to years of agony.
Conte has all but confirmed this is his last outing for the Partenopei, having won the Scudetto last season and steered them to second place this time despite a campaign-long injury crisis.
That has finally abated, with only Romelu Lukaku unavailable this evening, as Matteo Politano returns from suspension and Kevin De Bruyne is again only on the bench following a clash of heads in training two weeks ago.
Alisson Santos completes the attack with Hojlund and Eljif Elmas, so McTominay and Stanislav Lobotka pull the midfield strings.
PISA, ITALY – MAY 17: Amir Rrahmani of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring a goal with Scott McTominay of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and SSC Napoli at Arena Garibaldi on May 17, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Udinese have impressed this season and hope to finish in the top 10, but are smarting after last week’s 1-0 defeat to Cremonese.
Hassane Kamara is suspended here, with Nicolò Zaniolo, Jurgen Ekkelenkamp, Juan Arizala and Alessandro Zanoli on the treatment table.
Kingsley Ehizibue is back in the squad following his one-match ban, but Davis and Napoli-linked midfielder Arthur Atta start.
Lawrence Shankland could join Rangers as captain James Tavernier leaves Ibrox [SNS]
Rangers chairman Andrew Cavenagh spoke last Sunday about the club's need for leaders, ideally Scottish leaders and gnarled professionals.
He never mentioned Lawrence Shankland but almost didn't need to. The striker is everything he was describing. Rangers are not particularly lacking for goals - they outscored Celtic and Hearts in the Scottish Premiership in the season just gone - but they need steel and presence and Shankland provides that.
It was evident on Friday that things were moving quickly. It's still not definite - as of now he has not signed and there's still a medical to complete - but everything is heading rapidly in the right direction from a Rangers perspective, if not from a Hearts point of view.
Shankland is returning from holiday and final agreement would appear to be imminent. Pending any departures he would join Youssef Chermiti, Ryan Naderi, Bojan Miovski and Danilo as Danny Rohl's options up front. It's unlikely that all of those will be Rangers players come the start of the season. Shankland, if it gets done, would be the main man.
People with knowledge of the negotiations are being coy about what Rangers are paying Hearts for Shankland. Both sides are not comfortable talking about a supposed break clause in Shankland's Hearts contract that would allow him to leave for nothing, a scenario that would, no doubt, infuriate Hearts fans even further.
Losing their captain and principal scorer is bad enough but losing him for little or no money might be deemed insult added to injury. Right now, the phrases being used are 'undisclosed fee' and 'Rangers paid the required amount'.
Shankland has a prolific record for Hearts against Rangers, scoring both in a 2-0 win at Ibrox in September, getting what turned out to be the winner against them in December and in May, both times at Tynecastle.
He scored against Rangers in a 3-3 draw in May, 2024 and scored in a 3-1 loss and a 2-1 loss in November and October 2023. He's the most prolific scorer Hearts have had since the great John Robertson.
Shankland netted 20 goals for Derek McInnes' team in their near-glory season, part of which he missed through injury. He's pushing hard to start for Scotland against Haiti in the opening game of the World Cup.
For McInnes, this will come as a bitter blow. Shankland and Hearts were at a bit of a stand-off at the end of season 2024-25, a long-running dispute over salary between the club and the player's representatives threatening to see an end of him at Tynecastle.
When McInnes was appointed manager, one of the main items on his list was to keep Shankland. He was insistent he needed the striker and a deal was done. McInnes and Shankland have worked excellently together. Those days would appear to be over. Shankland to Rangers will take a lot of beating as the signing of the summer.
Summer is here, sort of, and it is everyone’s favorite time of the year, scouting time. Every year, we do Summer Scouting to preview college football for Bucs fans, but also give them an idea of names to follow and watch in the fall as needs pop up for Tampa Bay.
Are we going to write about quarterbacks? Offensive tackles? Edge rushers? You know it, but why? Because other NFL teams will draft them, just as they will draft every other position. It all matters whether these players end up on the Bucs, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Bucs fans can be the most informed fans.
So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.
Film
Miami (FL)
Texas A&M
Background Info
Listed at 6-2/235 lbs.
4-Star recruit according to 247 Sports
Mr. Football in Indiana in high school
Indiana Gatorade Player of the Year x2
Played running back and linebacker in high school
Top-ten baseball recruit out of high school
Played football and baseball at Notre Dame
Notable career stats heading into 2026
159 tackles
13.5 combined tackles for a loss and sacks
Generated 4 turnovers
Notable numbers from PFF heading into 2026
78 Career PFF Run Defense Grade
65.5 Career PFF Coverage Grade
18 Hurries
Missed tackle rate of 10.7%
60 Stops
Strengths
Physical tackler who patrols the middle of the field
High motor player who roams with a purpose
Rangy in both the run and pass game
Unique athlete for the position
Good awareness to always be in a position to make a play
Player Summary
His athleticism pops off on film whenever he is working his way in coverage and supporting the run. He is rangy and efficient in covering ground in defending the run and pass, not quite sideline-to-sideline range, but darn close. Bowen is a physical tackler who can make his presence known in the middle of the field to affect routes. He needs to work on some technical things, but his base as a prospect heading into 2026 is enough that he could be a project worth investing in for a coaching staff in 2027.
Near the end of Stage 2 of the thrice-postponed NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race, Corey Day was involved in a scary and unusual crash on the backstretch.
Day was brought into this race to drive the No. 7 Spire Motorsports entry following the shocking death of NASCAR legend Kyle Busch, who was only 41.
Busch won last weekend's Truck race at Dover Motor Speedway, his 234th NASCAR victory.
Thanks to that final win, Day started the Truck race from pole position with Busch's name still on the back window.
On Lap 47 of the race, Day and Gio Ruggiero tangled, sending Day spinning to the inside. At that point, the No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado lifted up off the ground and went completely airborne as it rapidly approached the inside wall where there was no catch-fencing.
Thankfully, the truck sat back down, only to slam the inside wall and get bounced back into traffic. The field scattered to avoid and while he avoided a direct hit, Mini Tyrrell did collide with the No. 7, finishing off both trucks. It's not often you see a truck fully airborne at Charlotte Motor Speedway...
No one was injured in the frightening incident, and Day was promptly checked and released from the infield care center.
"The 17 (Ruggiero) just got a big run off of (Turn) 2 and he kind of started to shade down, so I shaded with him, he shaded back up and that was it," said Day. "My spotter didn't do anything wrong...I just thought I was clear and i wasn't.
"I just hate it for the 7 guys. This is exactly what i didn't want to do today. I just wanted to deliver them a good run. I feel terrible. I hate it."
Heading into another prove-it season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, third-year receiver Roman Wilson recently chose to switch his jersey number from No. 10 — which he wore for his first two seasons as a professional — to No. 14.
Wilson sported the latter digit during his first three campaigns at Michigan before donning No. 1 as a senior. He explained why he claimed No. 14, last worn by tailback Kenneth Gainwell, on Wednesday.
“It’s a number I changed to when I was in high school,” Wilson said. “It’s been my number for a long time. It’s just something I feel comfortable in, that’s me, so it was available, so I just took a shot at it.”
Back in a familiar jersey number, Wilson hopes to finally enjoy a breakout season. He had 12 receptions for 166 yards and two touchdowns last go-round.
Burnley and Wolves wave goodbye to the Premier League with a clash to stay off the bottom of the table and bring a bit more money down to the Championship.
For live updates and highlights throughout Burnley vs Wolves, check out PST's live blog coverage below.
How to watch Burnley vs Wolves live, stream link and start time
Kick off time:11am ET Sunday Venue:Turf Moor — Burnley, Lancashire TV Channel: Peacock Streaming: Stream live on Peacock
Burnley vs Wolves score: 0-1
Armstrong 5'
Burnley vs Wolves live updates! — By Joe Prince-Wright
Mane hits the post!
Mateus Mane is some talent, isn't he? The Wolves teenager cuts inside and curls a beauty towards goal which Weiss tips against the post. Almost 2-0 to Wolves.
Penalty to Wolves! Armstrong scores!
Wolves want a handball in the box after Krejci's flick hits Florentino. VAR asks the referee to go to the monitor. He decides it is a handball. Adam Armstrong steps up to slot home. Wolves 1-0 up and in 19th place, as it stands.
Sa; Mosquera, Bueno, Krejci; R. Gomes, A. Gomes, Andre, Moller Wolfe, Hwang, Mane; Armstrong
Burnley team news, focus
OUT: Josh Cullen (knee), Jordan Beyer (hamstring) | QUESTIONABLE: Connor Roberts (fitness)
Wolves team news, focus
OUT: Leon Chiwone (knee), Enso Medina (knee), Sam Johnstone (knock)
Burnley vs Wolves preview
Turf Moor is the scene for this matchup of Nos. 19 and 20 on the Premier League table, where Wolves enter the game two points behind the Clarets. Burnley interim boss Michael Jackson would be happy to stay off the bottom and leave his second interim spell of the club with a win after drawing once and losing twice since taking the reins for Scott Parker. Burnley have not won since February 11 at Crystal Palace.
Rob Edwards and Wolves are slumping, too, without a win since back-to-back home defeats of Aston Villa and Liverpool at the end of February and early March. They've drawn two of three and moving off the bottom would feel a just reward for their efforts to make the most of a lost season.
Burnley vs Wolves prediction
The easy bet is a draw but we do feel there's enough here for both teams to score and a mild upset, as Wolves pull off the bottom of the table. Burnley 1-2 Wolves.
Johnny Manziel has been out of the NFL for about a decade, but he returned to competitive sports in a different capacity on Saturday night.
Manziel fought podcaster and social media influencer Bob Menery in a UFC Apex event that featured many former athletes. While Michael Beasley and Lance Stephenson were also duking it out, it's Manziel vs. Menery that was the main event on a stacked card.
As expected between two public figures like Manziel and Menery, there was been a good bit of trash talk in the lead-up to the fight. UFC CEO Dana White even put $10,000 on Menery not even showing up for the event in Las Vegas.
So, who won win the fight between Manziel and Menery? Here's the latest.
While neither brought much fighting experience, Manziel beat Menery on Saturday night via first-round stoppage.
The former quarterback landed a few kicks on Menery, then took the social media star down and proceeded to land some hard strikes before the referee waved the fight off at 2 minutes, 16 seconds.
Johnny Manziel just stopped Bob Menery in the first round of their MMA fight
The San Diego Padres could use some help at this year's trade deadline, and it wouldn't be a surprise if they wound up targeting help for the starting rotation.
However, a sneaky need for the team is the bullpen. Even with Mason Miller and some elite relievers, the Padres need a bit more help. They've already begun eyeing some trade targets over two months away from the deadline.
According to USA Today's Bob Nightengale, the Padres have their sights set on one very interesting closer from the Boston Red Sox who could form the best reliever duo in baseball with Mason Miller.
Padres have sights set on trade for Red Sox 0.51 ERA closer
"The San Diego Padres are looking for more bullpen help and have their eyes on Aroldis Chapman of the Boston Red Sox and Antonio Senzatela of the Colorado Rockies," Nightengale writes.
This is a fascinating target for the Padres. For a team with arguably the best closer in baseball already in Miller, adding another elite closer would be interesting.
But, with Miller being a righty and Chapman a lefty, this closer duo could easily be the best 1-2 punch coming out of a team's bullpen in baseball.
It would be hard to imagine many teams being able to mount a comeback if they're down heading into the eighth inning with Miller and Chapman coming out of the bullpen.
Chapman won't be cheap, as the lefty eight-time All-Star reliever has a 0.51 ERA this season for the struggling Red Sox. He is under contract for just one more season, although there is a mutual option for 2027 that is unlikely to be exercised.
But, even just half a season of Chapman together with Miller could lock down the last two innings of every postseason game for the Padres.
With A.J. Preller more than willing to part with prospects to acquire talent when needed, it would not be a surprise if the Padres did pull off a blockbuster like this at the deadline.
Padres fans should keep an eye out for more rumors as the deadline approaches, and the Red Sox become more likely sellers, as Chapman might come to San Diego to help the Padres pursue the NL West crown and a World Series title this year.
The St. Louis Cardinals are turning to an unfamiliar name for Sunday’s series finale against the Cincinnati Reds, and many fans are now asking the same question:
Who exactly is Brycen Mautz?
The 24-year-old left-hander is set to make his MLB debut Sunday after the Cardinals called him up following Saturday’s doubleheader shuffle. While the move was initially viewed as a temporary roster adjustment to help reorganize the pitching rotation, Mautz’s arrival is quickly generating real intrigue around St. Louis.
That is because the former second-round pick has quietly become one of the organization’s most interesting pitching prospects over the last year.
Lefty Brycen Mautz will start (and debut) Sunday vs. Reds, help Cardinals reset rotation https://t.co/mNHJ7XVgge
Brycen Mautz has rapidly climbed the Cardinals system
Brycen Mautz was selected by the Cardinals in the second round of the 2022 MLB Draft out of the University of San Diego. Since then, the 6-foot-3 southpaw has steadily worked his way through the minor league system while building a reputation for deception, swing-and-miss stuff and difficult angles against hitters.
The Cardinals named Mautz their Minor League Pitcher of the Year in 2025 after an impressive season in Double-A, where he posted a 2.98 ERA across 25 starts. This season at Triple-A Memphis, he has continued producing results with a 2.90 ERA and 43 strikeouts in 40.1 innings entering Sunday’s start.
Perhaps most encouraging for St. Louis is Mautz’s ability to generate whiffs. Reports surrounding his promotion highlighted a strikeout-heavy profile that already stands out compared to much of the Cardinals’ current rotation.
The timing of the move largely comes down to scheduling chaos.After Saturday’s doubleheader against Cincinnati, the Cardinals needed an extra starter to help reset the rotation and provide additional rest for pitchers like Matthew Liberatore.
According to reports, Sunday’s start allows Liberatore to shift into Monday’s game against Milwaukee while giving the rest of the rotation an extra recovery day as well. But while the move solves a short-term problem, it also gives St. Louis an opportunity to evaluate whether Mautz can become part of the organization’s long-term pitching plans.
Cardinals fans already have reasons to be intrigued
Mautz is not considered one of baseball’s elite national prospects, but evaluators inside and outside the organization have increasingly pointed to his upside. His low three-quarters arm slot creates deception, his slider has become a legitimate weapon and he has done a strong job limiting hard contact throughout the minors. Left-handed hitters especially have struggled against him.
There are still concerns. His walk rate remains higher than ideal, and some advanced metrics suggest possible regression could eventually come. Still, the Cardinals clearly believe the upside is worth the opportunity.
And after the emotional MLB debut of Bryan Torres earlier this weekend, St. Louis now gets another chance to see whether a young player can provide unexpected energy to a roster trying to stay competitive in the National League Central race.
Sunday now becomes much more than a routine series finale. For Brycen Mautz, it is the biggest moment of his baseball career so far.
The New York Jets received plenty of praise for their work at the 2026 NFL Draft. The team ended up with three selections in Round 1 which turned into edge David Bailey, receiver Omar Cooper Jr. and right end Kenyon Sidiq.
Even The Ringer praises that hauled... but the outlet still buried the Jets on their latest 2026 NFL offseason power rankings.
In lining up each team head-to-head, the Jets were placed in dead last in the league, No. 32 overall.
How did The Ringer get there? While there is praise for the Jets' draft, there are questions raised, too.
The breakdown can be found below:
If we were ranking based only on the results of the 2026 NFL draft, New York wouldn’t be at the bottom. The Jets made a couple of surprising moves, taking edge rusher David Bailey second (instead of edge-linebacker hybrid Arvell Reese); drafting tight end Kenyon Sadiq with the no. 16 pick, a year after selecting Mason Taylor in the top 100; and then trading back up into the first round to get receiver Omar Cooper Jr. at no. 30. Each of these players should be an immediate starter and can contribute to this rebuild, setting up a better landing spot for the next rookie (or veteran) quarterback the Jets add in 2027.
But we’re not giving New York points for what might happen in the future. Geno Smith might be an upgrade over Justin Fields at quarterback, but Smith was still one of the five worst starters in the league in 2025, when he was with the Raiders. Aaron Glenn’s defense also added a bunch of aging or underwhelming veterans to an already bad unit, which is an early candidate to be the worst in football. Success for this team would be getting the no. 1 pick in 2027, which makes it deserving of the 32nd spot in these rankings.
Buffalo Bills linebacker Terrel Bernard has plenty of reason to look forward to what's ahead in 2026.
It's a new NFL season and another chance to chase a Super Bowl. His team has had plenty of changes, too.
However, this is all about personal reasons for Bernard.
The linebacker and team captain was setback by injury throughout last season as he was held to 11 starts. Those issues included hamstring and ankle injuries which began at training camp.
“It was tough,” Bernard admitted. “It was probably my hardest year as a football player."
With Buffalo's transition to a new defense led by coordinator Jim Leonhard, the Bills know Bernard can be a valuable assistant in that change. Head coach Joe Brady is lending an understanding hand to Bernard early this offseason as well.
“When you’re injured, he had a ‘C’ on his chest and it was deserved. But it’s hard when you’re not out there. And so I think his leadership has strengthened just from that experience," Brady told reporters.
For more from Bernard during spring practices, see the attach clip below:
Terrel Bernard had offseason ankle surgery that was long overdue after fighting through nagging injuries dating back to 2023.
“I’ve grown up a certain way & if I’m able to go, I’m gonna go.”
PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - MAY 13: Mitch Keller #23 of the Pittsburgh Pirates pitches in the first inning during the game against the Colorado Rockies at PNC Park on May 13, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Pittsburgh Pirates are on the road today against the Toronto Blue Jays looking to grab a win.
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May 22, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter George Springer (4) runs to first base on an RBI double against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the eighth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Toronto has taken the first two games of the series, winning 6-2 on Friday and 5-2 on Saturday, and enters Sunday at 25-27 with four straight wins. The Blue Jays will start Dylan Cease, who has been excellent so far at 3-2 with a 2.98 ERA and 84 strikeouts over 57.1 innings, giving Toronto a strong chance to finish off the sweep.
Pittsburgh comes in at 26-26 after dropping back-to-back games in Toronto, but the Pirates still have a solid run differential and a competitive pitching staff. Mitch Keller gets the ball for Pittsburgh with a 4-2 record, 3.86 ERA and 1.06 WHIP, while the offense leans on Oneil Cruz, who leads the club with 33 RBIs, and Brandon Lowe, who has 13 home runs.
This is a great MLB matchup that you will not want to miss; make sure to tune in and catch all the action.
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📸 Cue the tears! City unveil three huge tifos in honour of legends
There won't be a dry eye at the Etihad on Sunday, as Manchester City see three legends walk away from the club.
Pep Guardiola, Bernardo Silva and John Stones all bid farewell in front of a home crowd against Aston Villa, and were gifted a stunning tifo reveal from the fans.
This photo taken on Sept. 21, 2025 shows an elephant with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background at Amboseli National Park in Kajiado County, Kenya. Located at the border between Kenya and Tanzania and at the foot of Africa's highest peak Mount Kilimanjaro, the park is known for its unique scenery and is one of the best places in Kenya to see various wild animals. (Photo by Li Yahui/Xinhua via Getty Images)
Hickory was rained out.
Hub City played a pair.
In Game One, Ismael Agreda allowed seven runs in four innings, walking 4 and striking out 7. Case Matter made his 2026 full season debut, throwing a scoreless inning.
Rafe Perich homered. Maxton Martin, Paxton Kling and Gleider Figuereo each singled.
In Game Two, Kling and Perich each had a hit and a walk. Chandler Pollard had a hit.
Frisco starter Leandro Lopez struck out seven in 4.2 IP, but allowed four runs on 10 hits and a walk, including a home run. Josh Sborz walked two in a scoreless inning.
Dylan Dreiling had a hit. Arturo Disla was 3 for 5. Cody Freeman had a hit.
For Round Rock, Robbie Ahlstrom threw 1.1 scoreless innings, striking out one. Michel Otanez struck out three in two scoreless innings. Gavin Collyer struck out two and walked one in a scoreless inning. Emiliano Teodo threw a scoreless inning.
Izack Tiger, making his way back from Tommy John surgery, threw a scoreless inning for the ACL Rangers, striking out one and walking one. Josh Owens walked two and struck out two in 0.2 IP.
Jay McQueen was 3 for 4 with a walk and a homer. Rashawn Pinder had a pair of homers.
The NBA offseason is usually centered around top players around the association finding out where the next chapter of their careers are going to be spent, or what moves the various front offices have been cooking up.
But a quieter part of the offseason is centered around those same front offices, as members and executives move to different organizations. This has been the case for the Philadelphia 76ers, who cut ties with Daryl Morey in mid-May after their exit from the NBA playoffs.
While there has been plenty of speculation and reports about who will fill the all-important role in Philadelphia, some existing members of their current brass have caught the eye of other organizations.
“According to league sources, the Mavericks have expressed interest in adding Philadelphia’s Prosper Karangwa to their front office,” writes Scotto.
Karangwa is currently the vice president of player personnel at the Sixers, having served as the Delaware Blue Coats' General Manager, overseeing their G-League-winning season in 2023.
Prior to his time in Philadelphia, the 48-year-old spent eight years with the Orlando Magic, serving as director of college scouting and a scout, according to Karangwa’s LinkedIn page.
The Mavericks’ interest in Karangwa comes as Masai Ujiri takes over Dallas’ front office and looks to fill in the various positions.
LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 16: Joao Pedro of Chelsea during the Emirates FA Cup Final match between Chelsea and Manchester City on May 16, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Barcelona have reportedly held “exploratory talks” with Chelsea over a potential summer move for Joao Pedro but have been told there is “no price” that will convince the Blues to part ways with the Brazilian.
Pedro has emerged as an alternative to Julian Alvarez as Barcelona search for a replacement for outgoing striker Robert Lewandowski.
Reporter Ben Jacobs says that Barcelona’s interest is “genuine” but has played down talk of a possible move to Barcelona.
He posted on X: “Although Barcelona’s interest in Joao Pedro is genuine, and some exploratory talks have taken place, Chelsea are not prepared to sell. There is no price that will change the club’s stance this summer, even a world-record bid.”
Although Barcelona’s interest in Joao Pedro is genuine, and some exploratory talks have taken place, Chelsea are not prepared to sell.
There is no price that will change the club’s stance this summer, even a world-record bid.🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/z2x8va9I3M
Hearts coach Paschalis Xanthos and head coach Eva Olid with the SWPL trophy [SNS]
Eva Olid said she was "in shock" after overseeing Hearts' SWPL title victory in her last match in charge.
The Spaniard will move on this summer and leaves as a title-winning head coach.
Hearts lost 2-0 to Edinburgh rivals and last season's champions Hibernian but Rangers' 6-0 defeat at Glasgow City meant Olid's side finished with a two-point advantage at the top.
"I'm in shock," Olid told BBC Alba. "You come with the mindset of 'win the game'. You don't win but you win the league. It's a strange feeling. We won the league, that is bigger than winning a game of football.
"We were the more consistent team. Last two weeks the players, you could feel were nervous. It's normal, it's a young team. First time that all of them are in this situation."
On her impending departure, Olid added: "It's just football things. I wanted to stay but competing as we were competing this year, it's not possible. I need to step away."
Hibernian counterpart Joelle Murray paid tribute to Olid, telling BBC Alba: "I said it to her before the game, whatever happens today, she can be so proud of herself. From where she came into the club to where she's leaving the club, she can be proud of herself.
"A breath of fresh air. They're a hard team to play against and to beat. We were just fortunate today that we managed to do that."
And Hearts captain Georgia Hunter told BBC Alba: "It's such a surreal feeling. It's been a long time coming for us.
"This season's been hard, it's had its highs, it's had its lows but I think the girls deserve this so much.
"We got the league win and that's all that matters."
The Magpies trailed in the 18th minute as Diop reacted quickly to nod the ball into an empty net from close-range after Kevin's impressive free-kick initially struck the crossbar.
Eddie Howe made three changes to the starting XI which claimed a 3-1 win against West Ham United last weekend as Dan Burn, Jacob Murphy and Joe Willock replaced Kieran Trippier Harvey Barnes and Sandro Tonali respectively, with the Italian midfielder unable to start after suffering an injury during the warm-up.
The Magpies, who occupied 11th place before kick-off, have won five of their last six trips to Craven Cottage, scoring 12 goals and recording four clean sheets in the process.
Eddie Howe's men seek a third victory in a row against the Cottagers after back-to-back 2-1 triumphs earlier this season.
The last Premier League encounter between the two sides came in October as Bruno Guimarães' 89th minute strike sealed maximum points at St. James' Park before Lewis Miley's stoppage-time header proved the difference in December's Carabao Cup quarter-final win.
Newcastle United: Nick Pope, Lewis Hall, Sven Botman, Malick Thiaw, Will Osula, Jacob Murphy, Nick Woltemade, Joe Willock, Dan Burn, Bruno Guimarães, Jacob Ramsey.
Subs not used: Aaron Ramsdale, John Ruddy, Kieran Trippier, Yoane Wissa, Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, Anthony Elanga, Alex Murphy, Sean Neave.
The New York Knicks turned in another impressive team effort in their 121-108 Game 3 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday night.
Three Knicks players finished with 20 points or more, highlighting the balance that has put New York firmly in control of the series.
OG Anunoby was among the standouts, posting 21 points, seven rebounds and four assists while shooting 60% from the field.
But his post-game appearance on Inside the NBA took an unexpected turn when Charles Barkley steered the conversation away from basketball.
Charles Barkley throws OG Anunoby a curveball after Knicks win
Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images
Speaking on the Inside the NBA show, Barkley asked the 28-year-old forward: “OG, can I ask you a question? What is your real name?”
Anunoby grinned and replied: “My real name is Ogugua.”
The light-hearted moment quickly made the rounds, offering a fun contrast to the Knicks’ focused performance.
Still, the bigger story was Anunoby’s impact in yet another New York win. His efficiency gave the Knicks a boost on a night when their depth again mattered.
The victory extended New York’s franchise-record playoff winning streak to 10 games, adding another layer of historical significance to their run.
According to ESPN, the Knicks are just the tenth team to win ten straight playoff games in a single postseason.
Of the previous nine teams to reach that milestone, five went on to win the NBA title.
Barkley’s question provided the night’s viral moment, but Anunoby’s performance kept the Knicks’ remarkable run rolling.
PHILADELPHIA -- The Philadelphia 76ers have been excellent in terms of developing Tyrese Maxey into a legitimate star in this league. The No. 21 overall pick of the 2020 draft, Maxey has taken big steps forward in each of his six seasons on his way to being one of the top stars in the NBA at such a young age.
In his sixth season in the league, Maxey averaged 28.3 points, 6.6 assists, and 4.1 rebounds on his way to being named to the All-Star team for the second time in his career. He has been excellent in every sense of the word on the floor while also growing as a leader both with his voice and as an example on the court.
Kelly Oubre Jr. has played with Maxey now for three seasons and he has been impressed with his development as a player.
"More seasoned," Oubre said of Maxey. "He’s been through a lot, very battle-tested. I mean, I wouldn't even say—he's a mature individual as well, so, it's not like his maturity is a question, but you know, I think he's found his voice. He's been able to back that up on the court, and he's fought through some nagging things that a lot of people could have pretty much just chucked the deuces up and gave up and gave in, but he's fought through a lot of things. So, he's resilient."
Maxey comes from a family of hard workers. That family and support system is important for a player like him to continue growing in this league. That is what Oubre singles out when it comes to Maxey continuing to develop.
"He has a good family and a good supporting cast around him," Oubre added. "So, I know that they'll keep him level headed throughout this off season, and you know he'll be in the gym. I’ll see him in the gym this summer, for sure. He works out early, though, sheesh. I'm coming in there when he done, but it's like 9:00. He's been here since like 7. I'm like...but yeah, so I know we're both gonna work our butts off to just improve our game."
Being in the NBA for 11 years, Oubre has taken big steps forward as a player in his own right on a regular basis. The veteran sees it in Maxey. There aren't going to be a lot of players better than him in the NBA as he continues his journey in the league. The growth has been fascinating to watch from his development as a 3-point shooter to being a serviceable defender to becoming a better playmaker. It's all right there.
"The same trend that I said about myself, he's been able to show that, too, and he's been able to show that in front of you guys' eyes, right?" Oubre finished. "And he's gonna continue to develop. Anything that you may critique of him this year, he's probably gonna come back and fix it, and make you eat your words. So, that's one thing about Tyrese that I love."
Summer is here, sort of, and it is everyone’s favorite time of the year, scouting time. Every year, we do Summer Scouting to preview college football for Bucs fans, but also give them an idea of names to follow and watch in the fall as needs pop up for Tampa Bay.
Are we going to write about quarterbacks? Offensive tackles? Edge rushers? You know it, but why? Because other NFL teams will draft them, just as they will draft every other position. It all matters whether these players end up on the Bucs, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Bucs fans can be the most informed fans.
So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.
Film
Clemson
Ole Miss
South Carolina
Background Info
Listed at 6-2/225 lbs.
4-Star recruit according to 247 Sports
Invited to the All-American Bowl in High School
First-Team All-SEC in 2024
Dad played for Georgia
Notable career stats heading into 2026
115 tackles
21.5 combined tackles for a loss and sacks
Generated 3 turnovers
Notable numbers from PFF heading into 2026
68.4 Career PFF Run Defense Grade
56.6 Career PFF Coverage Grade
28 Hurries
Missed tackle rate of 12.7%
88 Stops
Strengths
Leader in the middle of the defense
Has sideline-to-sideline speed and range
Physical tackler who doesn’t allow runners to break through him
Decent coverage ability
Processes everything quickly and efficiently
Player Summary
Whit Weeks is a really fun linebacker prospect as he plays with literally every ounce of his being. Not many more players use the effort that he does, and as a result, he overcomes some shortcomings. What he showed on top of that effort was the ability to move sideline to sideline, provide decent zone coverage, and play a controlled physical style. All of that rolls him into one of the safer linebacker prospects this next draft cycle with some upside to boot.
The Los Angeles Angels, back in 2023, were faced with a tricky decision: they either were meant to build around Shohei Ohtani and go all in, or trade him away to recoup some value in case he left in free agency.
They decided to keep Ohtani and not trade him. That didn't work at all, as the Angels missed the playoffs, and then Ohtani walked in free agency, joining the Los Angeles Dodgers.
However, according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale, the fault for this Ohtani situation for the Angels falls squarely on the shoulders of owner Arte Moreno. He actually had the chance to bring Ohtani back, but let him go to the Dodgers instead.
Arte Moreno is to blame for Shohei Ohtani leaving Angels in free agency
"The Angels were given the opportunity to match the $700 million offer with $680 million deferred, and Ohtani would have returned if the Angels agreed," Nightengale writes. "Yet, owner Arte Moreno passes, with Ohtani's price tag exceeding expectations."
Ohtani signed with the Dodgers on a massive $700 million deal, which is now second only to Juan Soto's $765 million deal for the biggest contracts in MLB history.
It would've been a ton of money to hand out, but for a superstar player like Ohtani, it would've been worth it. He's already proven his worth for the Dodgers, helping them to back-to-back World Series titles to go with significant interest and revenue.
The Angels had the chance to bring Ohtani back and get all of the success he's had since leaving for the 2024 season. But Moreno passed, balking at the high price tag.
While it might be easy to pin the blame on Ohtani, the player who left the team in free agency and accepted the Dodgers' offer, this report from Nightengale sheds some light on the situation.
If Moreno wanted to, he could've brought Ohtani back on the same deal he signed with the Dodgers, according to this report.
Angels fans can essentially solely blame Moreno for Ohtani signing with the Dodgers a few winters ago, as Ohtani seemingly would've come back on the $700 million contract the Dodgers offered if the Angels matched it.
As the most popular and illustrious football league in the world, the Premier League is considered the gold standard for professional players around the globe hoping to prove themselves at the highest level.
For young stars, emerging as a viable Premier League option is a dream come true, and as the famous saying goes, "if you're good enough, you're old enough."
That was the case for Arsenal youngster Max Dowman, who has set multiple youthful records having broken onto the scene for Arsenal at just 15 years old.
The Sporting News breaks down which players top the list of youngest-ever goal scorers in the Premier League after the rebrand in 1992 ushered in the modern age of English football.
At just 16 years, 74 days old, Max Dowman became the youngest goal scorer in Premier League history when he bagged a stoppage-time goal against Everton on March 14, 2026, helping the Gunners to a dramatic 2-0 victory.
He broke the record held by James Vaughn, who himself snatched it from future iron man James Milner who had scored his first career goal three years prior in December of 2005.
Wayne Rooney's legendary winner against Arsenal just three months before that had made him the record-holder at the time, which ended the Gunners' 30-match Premier League unbeaten streak.
While scoring a goal is a dream achievement for young players in their early Premier League days, simply getting on the pitch is an accomplishment in and of itself.
Vaughan's record for youngest-ever Premier League goal scorer may have stood for over 20 years, but the record for youngest-ever player continues to fall repeatedly.
Ethan Nwaneri of Arsenal set the record for youngest player to ever appear in a Premier League match when he entered for Arsenal back in 2022, one of just three 15-year-olds ever to enter a match. His teammate fell just days short of beating that mark as new academy product Dowman appeared in the 2025/26 season opener against Leeds.
Dowman would set the record for youngest Premier League starter on the final day of the 2025/26 season, as the Arsenal youngster began their match against Crystal Palace at 16 years, 144 days old.
Microsoft upgraded its Surface Laptop for Business (8th Edition) with an integrated privacy screen unlike the others. I went back into our archives to figure out which laptop brand did it first, who followed up, and why Surface has the new best implementation.
This year’s Spring Surface drop arrived with no event, no excitement, and no clear strategy; just another quiet refresh at a time when the brand needs direction.
The hardware looks straightforward at first glance: a waist belt connected to hinged braces along the thighs, but the mechanics beneath do more than stabilize movement. The system uses dual hip-mounted motors that can draw up to 1,000 watts, pushing carbon-fiber linkages that add force to each step. Instead of...
There's little doubt that Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag is among the dearest franchise entries to fans, which makes it easy to understand why Ubisoft would pick it as the first proper remake (others will probably follow, starting with the first installment): Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced. While naval gameplay had been introduced by Assassin's Creed III one year prior, Black Flag took it to the next level and empowered players to freely roam the Caribbean, therefore embodying any pirate's true mandate: freedom. Now, Edward Kenway returns in a refreshed game that features several changes both over and under the […]
Creality's excellent Ender 3 V3 is on sale with a Co-Print multicolor upgrade kit that unlocks the final hurdle of the platform, allowing you to use the Ender 3 V3 as a multi-color powerhouse. This is a fantastic, extremely fast and well-built 3D printer with all the features you could ask for, regardless of your status as an expert or an entrant into the hobby.
A YouTuber duo unofficially broke the world record using a custom-made carbon fiber propeller blade that featured exotic sawtooth leading edges. The first test ended in a disaster, though, after the drone lost contact and crashed at 393 mph.
Live Like the River offers a personal AI thinking partner with memory for coaching and healing. Through Claudie@liveliketheriver and Claudie@coach, it guides you from symptoms to root causes, clarifies purpose, and supports deliberate transformation with privacy and continuity. Follow a five-stage journey from inventory to integration, try a free session, and choose monthly memberships for healing or coaching as you build momentum across all areas of life.
LettingGuru is a cloud-based letting agency platform for UK agents to manage properties, tenants, maintenance, compliance, finances, and communications from one place. It combines CRM, digital onboarding with AML and deposit protection, guided inspections, e-signing, and automated maintenance workflows. The platform offers AI-powered assistance, stakeholder mobile portals, Xero integration, multi-branch reporting, and RRA-ready compliance tools to cut costs and stay on top of deadlines.
Cunard has unveiled the itinerary for its cruise celebrating America’s 250th birthday in New York. As previously reported, the Queen Mary 2 will join over 100 vessels passing through the New York Harbor as part of the Sail4th meetup of tall ships. The cruise line said in a press release that this will be the...
Amid a disappointing season, Tottenham face Everton seeking either a win or a draw to remain in the Premier League. Nevertheless, the absence of Cristian Romero remains crucial in the defensive line, potentially proving decisive.
Despite being the recent UEFA Europa League champions, Tottenham Hotspurare enduring a disappointing season, fighting to avoid relegation to the EFL Championship. To achieve this, they face Everton today, looking to avoid defeat in order to remain in the Premier League. However, head coach Roberto De Zerbi faces a major challenge, as he will be without Cristian Romero in defense, a highly significant absence.
After suffering a serious knee injury against Sunderland, Cristian Romero has remained sidelined since April 12, 2026, missing the remainder of the season. While he is expected to return just in time for the 2026 World Cup with Argentina, he will miss Tottenham Hotspur’s decisive match for Premier League survival. In addition, the 28-year-old defender’s future appears to be in serious doubt, with numerous transfer rumors.
Even though he had permission from Tottenham Hotspur to continue his recovery process in Argentina, Cristian Romero decided to return to London, even being seen at a barber shop through social media posts. Following this, Ben Jacobs, well-known journalist within Premier League, reported that the 28-year-old defender will be present in the stands to support his team, demonstrating his commitment to the dressing room.
Tottenham captain Cristian Romero.
Tottenham Hotspur lineup vs Everton
Tottenham Hotspur enter as clear favorites to defeat Everton, as they are fighting for their survival in the Premier League. In the absence of Cristian Romero, head coach Roberto De Zerbi will once again rely on Kevin Danso and Micky van de Ven, who have impressed in recent matches. In addition, Richarlison and Mathys Tel will expected to lead the attack, looking to make the difference against David Moyes’ team.
With this in mind, Spurs will lineup as follows: Antonín Kinský; Djed Spence, Kevin Danso, Micky van de Ven, Destiny Udogie; Rodrigo Bentancur, João Palhinha; Pedro Porro, Conor Gallagher, Mathys Tel; Richarlison.
Everton lineup vs Tottenham Hotspur
Unlike Tottenham, Everton no longer have anything at stake in the Premier League, as they are neither at risk of relegation nor able to qualify for European competitions. However, head coach David Moyes will still field his strongest roster, as they have not enjoyed a particularly impressive season and would look to finish with a solid victory. To achieve this, the goalscoring presence of Thierno Barry and the contribution of Iliman Ndiaye could prove completely decisive.
Considering this, Everton will play as follows: Jordan Pickford; Jake O’Brien, James Tarkowski, Michael Keane, Vitali Mykolenko; James Garner, Tim Iroegbunam; Merlin Röhl, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Iliman Ndiaye; Thierno Barry.
Cristian Romero of Tottenham Hotspur in action during the Premier League match.
Victor Osimhen'in gazeteci arkadaşı Buchi Laba, Galatasaray Yönetimi ve Icardi arasındaki sözleşme görüşmelerindeki son durumu açıkladı. İşler epey karışık...
Galatasaray'ın Nijeryalı yıldızı Victor Osimhen'in en yakın arkadaşlarından biri Buchi Laba... Laba sık sık Türkiye'ye gelerek oyuncuyu ziyaret ediyor.
Sosyal medyasında ise spor haberleri yayınlıyor. Cim-Bom ve Icardi arasında yaşanan yeni sözleşme görüşmelerindeki son durumu da anlattı.
DAHA CAZİP TEKLİFLER
Buchi Laba, "Galatasaray, Icardi'ye 1 senelik ve ciddi bir maaş indirimi içeren bir sözleşme önerdi. Oyuncu bunu kesin bir dille reddetti. 1 yıldan fazlasını bekliyor. Değerinin takdir edilmesini istiyor. Oynama garantisi gibi bir durum söz konusu değil. Güney Amerika ekipleri ona daha cazip teklifler yaptı" dedi.
ŞU ANDA DÜŞÜNÜYORLAR
Laba ayrıca, "Yönetim şu anda Icardi'ye yeni bir teklif yapıp yapmayacağını düşünüyor. Eğer hamle gelmezse, Icardi bedelsiz ayrılacak" ifadelerini kullandı. Öte yandan alınan bilgilere göre; Galatasaray Yönetimi'nin Arjantinli yıldıza ikinci bir sözleşme önerme olasılığı son derece düşük! Çok büyük bir ihtimalle bu hikaye bitecek...
Beşiktaş'ın teknik direktör adayları arasında özellikle Roger Schmidt çok konuşuluyordu. Alman çalıştırıcıyla temas kurulduğu öğrenildi. 59 yaşındaki hoca, Siyah-Beyazlılar'a çok net bir yanıt verdi.
Sergen Yalçın'ın ayrılığı sonrasında Beşiktaş'ın yeni teknik direktör arayışları sürüyor. Listede en çok dikkat çeken isimlerden biri Roger Schmidt'ti... Şu anda Japonya J League'in Küresel Sportif Direktörü olan 59 yaşındaki çalıştırıcıyla temas kurulduğu öğrenildi.
TÜRKİYE'Yİ DÜŞÜNMÜYOR
Alman hoca, Beşiktaş cephesine Türkiye'de çalışmak istemediğini iletti. Böylece bu transfer dosyası tamamen kapandı. Roger Schmidt son olarak Benfica'yı çalıştırmıştı. 1 Ekim 2025 tarihinde Japonya'daki görevine başladı. Siyah-Beyazlılar doğal olarak alternatiflere ağırlık verdi.
FENERBAHÇE İDDİALARI DA DÜŞTÜ
Roger Schmidt'in, Beşiktaş'a verdiği yanıt sonrasında Fenerbahçe iddiaları da son bulmuş oldu. Başkan adaylarından birinin, Schmidt'le ilgilendiği konuşuluyordu. 59 yaşındaki teknik adamın, Japonya'da son derece mutlu olduğu öğrenildi. Yeni görevindeki stres seviyesi de normal olarak hocalığa göre çok daha düşük...
Beşiktaş'ta Sergen Yalçın ayrıldıktan sonra Frank Anguissa transferinin yatabileceği konuşuluyordu. Ancak Başkan Serdal Adalı'nın da Kamerunlu orta saha oyuncusunu istediği öğrenildi.
Beşiktaş'ın eski hocası Sergen Yalçın, Napoli'de forma giyen Frank Anguissa için yönetimden istekte bulunmuştu. Yalçın bilindiği üzere sonraki süreçte kulüpten ayrıldı. Bu sebeple transferin yatabileceği öğrenildi. Ancak konuyla ilgili girişimlerin devam ettiği öğrenildi...
SON SENESİNE GİRDİ
Çünkü sadece Sergen Yalçın'ın değil, Başkan Serdal Adalı'nın da Kamerunlu orta saha oyuncusunu istediği ortaya çıktı. 30 yaşındaki yıldızın Napoli'yle mukavelesi 30 Haziran 2027'de tamamlanacak. Yani kontratının son senesine girdi. İtalyan ekibi, onu satarak para kazanmayı amaçlıyor.
TEMASLAR SÜRÜYOR
Kartal hem oyuncu hem de Napoli'yle anlaşmak üzere... Özetle; Sergen Yalçın'ın ayrılığı, durumu değiştirmedi. 1.84 boyundaki merkez orta saha, 2022 yazında Fulham'dan transfer edilmişti. Napoli o dönemde 16 milyon euro bonservis bedeli ödedi. Yine bu civarda bir rakam karşılığında ikna olmaları bekleniyor.
Fotospor'un bir hafta önce duyurduğu dev vizyon, İtalyan La Repubblica tarafından da manşete taşındı. Başkan adayı Hakan Safi'nin futbol aklı Paolo Maldini'nin önerdiği teknik direktörün Milan'ı İtalya'da zirveye taşıyan ve Stefano Pioli olduğunu doğruladı!
Fenerbahçe’de yaklaşan başkanlık seçimi öncesi kulisler alev aldı... başkan adayı Hakan Safi’nin gizlice yürüttüğü ve Türk futbolunun çehresini değiştirecek dev projenin detayları netleşti. Fotospor’un yaklaşık bir hafta önce manşete taşıdığı "Maldini ve Pioli" harekatı, İtalya’nın dünyaca ünlü köklü gazetesi La Repubblica tarafından da resmen doğrulandı.
MALDINI KISA SÜRE ÖNCE GELDİ
Seçilmesi durumunda Safi, futbol aklı olmasını kararlaştırdığı Paolo Maldini ile önce İtalya’da, sonra da Türkiye’de bir araya geldi. Safi’nin seçim kozu olarak öne çıkan Maldini ile "Futbol Anayasası" üzerinde uzlaşma sağladığı konuşuluyor. İtalyan efsanesi şimdiden Safi’nin kampanyasındaki en güçlü figür haline geldi.
İtalyan La Repubblica, Maldini’nin Fenerbahçe'ye getirmek istediği teknik direktörün 2019-2024 yılları arasında Milan’ı birlikte başarıya koşturduğu Stefano Pioli olduğunu yazdı.
İkilinin geçmişteki güçlü bağı futbol dünyasında iyi biliniyor. Öyle ki, Maldini’nin 2023 yılında Milan’dan ayrılmasının en büyük nedenlerinden biri, kulübün Pioli’yi görevden alma kararına karşı çıkması ve hocasının arkasında durmasıydı.
FIORENTINA'DAN KISA SÜRE ÖNCE AYRILDI
Fotospor’un günler öncesinden duyurduğu iddiayı güçlendiren hamle ise İtalya'dan geldi... Pioli, Al-Nassr macerasının ardından geçtiğimiz günlerde başına geçtiği ve yalnızca 14 resmi maça çıktığı Fiorentina’daki görevinden ani bir şekilde ayrıldı. Çizme basını, bu istifanın arkasında tamamen Fenerbahçe projesinin olduğunu yazdı.
Galatasaray devre arasında Tottenham'dan Mathys Tel'i almak için girişimlerde bulunmuştu. 10+4 kontenjanının ardından Sarı-Kırmızılılar'ın genç futbolcu konusunda yeniden harekete geçtiği öğrenildi.
Galatasaray'da Mathys Tel gündemi yeniden hareketlendi.
Sarı-Kırmızılılar, kış döneminde Tottenham'la pazarlıklarda bulunmuştu. Ancak sonuç alınamadı. Türkiye Futbol Federasyonu'nun 10+4'lük yabancı kontenjanı sonrasında tekrar konuyla ilgili planlamalara başlandığı öğrenildi. Fransız yıldız, 27 Nisan 2005 doğumlu...
MUTSUZ DURUMDA
21 yaşındaki futbolcunun asıl yeri santrfor... Ancak hem sol hem de sağ kanatta görev yapabiliyor. Bu profildeki bir isim de Teknik Direktör Okan Buruk'un beklentilerini tam olarak karşılıyor. Mathys Tel, az forma süresi bulması sebebiyle mutsuz durumda... Ayrıca Galatasaray'ın farklı kozları da var.
SATIN ALMA OPSİYONLU
Sarı-Kırmızılılar önümüzdeki sezon yine Şampiyonlar Ligi'nde mücadele edecek. Tel cephesinin iyi bir maaş ve Avrupa artısıyla birlikte ikna edilebileceği düşünülüyor. Ayrıca Leroy Sane'nin de eski takım arkadaşıyla arası son derece iyi... Tottenham, genç yeteneği bu sezon başında Bayern Münih'ten kadrosuna katmıştı. 35 milyon euro bonservis bedeli ödediler. Sarı-Kırmızılılar'ın satın alma opsiyonlu kiralama formülü üzerinde çalıştığı belirtildi. Kısa süre içinde sıcak gelişmeler yaşanabilir.
Fenerbahçe'de başkan adayı Aziz Yıldırım'ın transfer listesi netleşmeye başladı. Nijerya basını, sarı-lacivertlilerin Galatasaray'ın hegemonyasını yıkmak için Premier League'de forma giyen o dünya yıldızını savunmanın merkezine koyacağını iddia etti.
Nijerya'dan Pulse Sports, Fenerbahçe, ezeli rakibi Galatasaray'ın ligdeki hegemonyasını kırmak ve savunma hattını güçlendirmek adına Calvin Bassey'i listesine eklediğini yazdı.
Faruq Ibrahim imzasıyla yayınlanan habere göre bu transfer hamlesinin arkasında, haziran ayındaki seçimler öncesi taraftara üst düzey ve elit yetenekler getirme sözü veren başkan adayı Aziz Yıldırım'ın ve scout ekibinin planlaması yer alıyor.
Sarı-lacivertliler, son 4 sezondur Süper Lig'de ciddi bir dominasyon kuran ezeli rakibi Galatasaray'a karşı, Victor Osimhen gibi dünya yıldızlarıyla mücadele edebilecek güçte bir savunma duvarı inşa etmek istiyor.
Fenerbahçe başkan adayı Aziz Yıldırım, 7 Haziran'daki tarihi kongre öncesi geri dönüşü olmayan dev bir transfer sözü verdi!
Kendisini tamamen bağlayan o iddialı takvimi açıklayan Yıldırım'ın, seçilmesi halinde sözünü tutmak için sadece 13 ila 18 günü olacak.
Fenerbahçe’de 7 Haziran’da yapılacak başkanlık seçimi öncesi Aziz Yıldırım’dan kendisini bağlayacak çok iddialı bir açıklama geldi.
Göreve gelmesi halinde taraftara şampiyonluk sözü veren Yıldırım, bu kez kendisini tamamen bağlayacak net bir takvim ve sayı vererek transfer operasyonunun startını verdi.
- Önce 2 santrfor alacağız. Sonra 4 oyuncu daha gelecek ve 6 transferle ana iskeleti tamamlayacağız. 20-25 Haziran arasındaki sezon açılışına kadar bu oyuncuların hepsi gelmiş olacak. Ondan sonra gidenlere göre ihtiyaç varsa transferi yeniden elden geçireceğiz.
Eğer Yıldırım 7 Haziran'da sandıktan zaferle çıkar ve başkanlık koltuğuna oturursa, önünde bu sözü gerçekleştirmek için yalnızca 13 ila 18 günlük çok dar bir zaman dilimi kalacak. Bu da demek oluyor ki Aziz Yıldırım ve ekibi, göreve geldikleri andan itibaren her 2-3 günde en az 1 dünya yıldızını Kadıköy’e indirmek zorunda!
Grayscale filed to convert its Zcash Trust into the first US privacy coin ETF. Here's what the ZCSH filing actually does and why it changes the category.
Azat Kaya, antrenörü Burhan Deme eşliğinde Türkiye şampiyonluğundan sonra milli takıma girip Avrupa Şampiyonası'nda Türkiye'yi temsil etmeyi hedefliyor.
Konya'da güvenlik personeli olarak çalışan Mustafa Altuntaş, Masterler Atmalar Türkiye Şampiyonası'nda gülle, disk ve çekiç atma branşlarında, bilek güreşinde ise Avrupa ve Türkiye Şampiyonası'nda birincilik elde etmenin gururunu yaşıyor.
Tunceli'de kick boks sporcuları, Munzur Vadisi'nin yüksek rakım ve zorlu arazi koşullarında yaptıkları 10 kilometrelik koşu ve kuvvet antrenmanlarıyla dayanıklılıklarını artırarak güç depoluyor.
Enes Özdemir, Almanya'nın Frankfurt kentindeki Avrupa Karate Şampiyonası'nda kata kategorisinde altın madalya kazanarak kariyerinin 6. Avrupa şampiyonluğuna ulaşırken hem başarısını hem de karatenin olimpiyatlarda yer almamasına duyduğu üzüntüyü dile getirdi.
Hollanda Eredivisie Konferans Ligi play-off finalinde Ajax, Utrecht'i penaltı atışları sonucunda 4-3 mağlup ederek gelecek sezon Konferans Ligi ön eleme turunda mücadele etme hakkı kazandı.
2025-2026 Süper Lig sezonunda 252 Türk futbolcu süre alırken en golcü Türk oyuncu 9 golle Umut Nayir, en çok süre alan kaleci Muhammed Şengezer, en genç oyuncu Ayaz Özcan, en "hırçın" oyuncu Orkun Kökçü olurken en tecrübeli isim Veysel Sarı olarak öne çıktı.
Göztepe'nin Kamerunlu stoperi Malcom Bokele'ye Almanya'dan Augsburg ve Fransa'dan bazı kulüplerin ilgi gösterdiği ve kulübün iyi bir teklif gelirse satışa açık olduğu belirtiliyor.
Trabzonspor'un Nijeryalı golcüsü Paul Onuachu, 2025-2026 sezonunda ortaya koyduğu performansla bordo-mavililerin son yıllardaki en etkili yabancı santrforlarından biri oldu. Ligde attığı 22 golle dikkatleri çeken 2.01'lik Onuachu, maç başına gol ortalamasında 2019-2020 sezonu gol kralı Alexander Sörloth'u geride bırakarak önemli istatistiğe de imza attı.
Trabzonspor, Fatih Tekke yönetiminde 5 sezonluk Türkiye Kupası hasretine son verirken, Süper Lig'de de 69 puanla son 4 sezonun en iyi performansını sergiledi. Bordo-mavililerde Tekke, 1,95 puan ortalamasıyla Ertuğrul Doğan döneminin en başarılı teknik direktörü oldu.
Galatasaray için konuşan Evren Göz, Gabriel Sara'ya Aston Villa'nın ciddi ilgisi olduğunu, olası transferde ise Youri Tielemans takasının gündeme gelebileceğini söyledi.
Beşiktaş'ta gelecek sezonun transfer çalışmaları başlarken siyah-beyazlıların gündemine David Alaba'yı aldığı öğrenildi. Alaba'nın da siyah-beyazlılarda oynayamaya sıcak baktığı öne sürüldü. İşte detaylar......Devamı için tıklayınız
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Kayseri'nin Develi ilçesinde oturan 49 yaşındaki Metin Arslan, kırsal mahallesine yaptırdığı evin duvarlarını sarı-laciverte boyattıDevamı için tıklayınız
Gençlik ve Spor Bakanı Osman Aşkın Bak, 2026 Açık Hava Avrupa Okçuluk Şampiyonası'nda altın madalya kazanan klasik yay karışık takımını kutladı.Devamı için tıklayınız
Bu gün keçiriləcək son bir oyunla futbol üzrə Azərbaycan çempionatında (Premyer Liqa) 2025/2026 mövsümünə yekun vurulub.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, sonuncu – 33-cü turun sonuncu oyun günündə bir qarşılaşma baş tutub.
Mövsümün qapanış matçında “İmişli” “Karvan”la üz-üzə gəlib. Quba Olimpiya İdman Kompleksinin stadionunda keçirilmiş oyunu İnqilab Məmmədov idarə edib. Tərəflər bu görüşdə hərəyə 1 qol və 1 xalla kifayətləniblər.
Beləcə, 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünə heç-heçə ilə yekun vurulub.
Premyer Liqa 33-cü tur 24 may
“İmişli” – “Karvan” 1:1 Qollar: Dioqo Kardozo, 90+5 – Peter Kinqs, 28. Hakimlər: İnqilab Məmmədov, Namik Hüseynov, Tərlan Talıbzadə, Kamran Əliyev. VAR: Rəşad Əhmədov. AVAR: Rahil Ramazanov. Hakim-inspektor: Zöhrab Qədiyev. Quba Olimpiya İdman Kompleksinin stadionu. 16:00.
İmişli: 99. İmam Əli, 77. Elmir Rəhimzadə, 21. Abbas Ağazadə, 97. Xəzər Mahmudov, 5. İdris İnqilablı, 70. Mehdi Tahirov, 44. Həzrət İsayev, 11. Vüsal Qənbərov, 3. Tuncay Yusifli, 20. Nazim Hüseynov, 29. Edvin Banqera (k). Ehtiyat oyunçular: 1. Hüseynəli Quliyev, 33. Andrey Sinenka, 90. Riad Abbaszadə, 47. Orxan Fərəcov, 30. Xəlil Mürsəlli, 94. Rafael Vyeqas, 10. Nikola Karaklaiç, 6. Yav Mozes, 79. Dioqo Kardozo, 17. Ezekiel Morqan. Baş məşqçi: Xorxe Kaskilya.
Karvan: 1. Kamran İbrahimov, 33. Eltun Turabov (k), 42. İbrahim Qədirzadə, 13. Vüsal Məsimov, 17. Samir Abdullayev, 16. Rauf Rüstəmli, 5. Emin Rüstəmov, 2. Şakil Sno, 11. Kayl Spens, 37. Mois Nqvisani, 8. Peter Kinqs. Ehtiyat oyunçular: 25. Əmrah Bulud, 18. Süleyman Əhmədov, 14. Uğur Cahangirov, 19. Tompson Qavi, 10. Samuel Durrant. Baş məşqçi: Füzuli Məmmədov.
Premyer Liqada çıxış etmək uğrunda “Qəbələ” və “Mingəçevir” arasında keçiriləcək pley-off matçının proqramı müəyyənləşib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə Peşəkar Futbol Liqasının (PFL) rəsmi saytı məlumat yayıb.
Xəbərdə bildirilir ki, həlledici görüş mayın 28-də Sumqayıtda baş tutacaq. Qarşılaşmaya saat 18:30-da start veriləcək.
Xatırladaq ki, “Qəbələ” Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasında 33 oyuna 27 xal toplayaraq 12 iştirakçı arasında 11-ci yeri tutub. Sözügedən komanda cari mövsümdə Birinci Liqanı ikinci sırada başa vurmuş “Mingəçevir”lə üz-üzə gələcək. Bir matçdan ibarət olan bu dueldə qələbə qazanacaq tərəf 2026/2027-ci illər mövsümündə Premyer Liqada çıxış etmək hüququ qazanacaq. Məğlub tərəf isə Birinci Liqada mübarizə aparacaq.
Premyer Liqaya vəsiqə uğrunda pley-off oyunu 28 may
Misli Premyer Liqasının XXXIII turunun “İmişli” – “Karvan-Yevlax” oyunundan (1:1) sonra qonaq komandanın baş məşqçisi Füzuli Məmmədov jurnalistlərin suallarını cavablandırdı.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, mütəxəssis əvvəlcə görüşlə bağlı fikirlərini bölüşdü:
– Nəticənin turnir cədvəli baxımından mahiyyəti olmasa da, qələbə qazanmaq istəyirdik. Meydanda yaxşı mübarizənin şahidi olduq. Ağır yol keçdik, mövsüm bitdi. Təəssüf ki, komandamız I Liqaya yuvarlandı. Oyuna gəlincə, futbolçular meydanda əziyyət çəkdi. Yekunda istədiyimizə nail ola bilmədik. Hər kəsə uğurlar arzu edirəm.
– Komanda ilə davam edəcəksinizmi? Edəcəksinizsə, heyətdə nə qədər dəyişiklik olacaq?
– Çox istəyirəm ki, I Liqada iddialı olaq, yenidən Premyer Liqaya qayıdaq. Arzum budur. Yəqin, sabah rəhbərliklə görüşümüz olacaq. Şərtlərim, tələblərim qəbul olunsa, davam edəcəyəm. Bu heyətdə yaxşı futbolçular var. Şərtlər də yaxşı olsa, onlarla da danışılacaq.
– Samuel Durrantın oyununu necə dəyərləndirirsiniz?
– Bir oyuna görə futbolçunu şərh etmək istəmirəm. Meydanda əzmkar oyun gedirdi. Rəqib böyük təzyiqlə üzərimizə gəlirdi. Durrant keyfiyyətli oyunçudur, ancaq bu gün ondan istədiyimi ala bilmədim. Həm də futbolçular üçün belə matçlarda psixoloji çətinlik olur. Komanda liqadan düşüb, iddia qalmayıb. Ruh düşkünlüyü normaldır. Durrantı başa düşürəm, klubla müqaviləsi başa çatıb. Ona uğurlar arzu edirəm.
– Başqa təklifləriniz var?
– Əvvəlcə klubun rəhbərliyi ilə danışacam. Bu görüşdən çox şey asılıdır.
– Mövsümlə bağlı fikirləriniz nədir?
– Səmimi deyirəm, nəticəyə görə üzgünəm, belə şeyləri sevmirəm. Ağır mövsüm keçirdik. Heyfislənmirəm, böyük təcrübə qazandıq. Premyer Liqada lazımi yol keçdik. Karyeram üçün yaxşı təcrübəm oldu, möhkəmləndim, məşqçi kimi çox şey gördüm. Amma yenə deyirəm, istəməzdim belə olsun. Çox çalışdım ki, komanda liqada qalsın. Premyer Liqa haqqında danışası olsaq, maraqlı mövsüm keçdi. “Neftçi”nin, “Sabah”ın, “Turan Tovuz”un oyunlarını qeyd etmək olar. Avrokuboklarda olacaq komandalara uğurlar arzu edirəm. Sürətli çempion oldu.
Misli Premyer Liqasının XXXIII turunda “Zirə”ni 3:2 hesabı ilə məğlub edən “Araz-Naxçıvan” yubiley qələbəsini qazanıb.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu, komandanın Premyer Liqada 30-cu ev qələbəsi olub.
Naxçıvan təmsilçisi öz meydanında keçirdiyi 74-cü oyunda “30”a çatıb. Digər qarşılaşmalarda 20 heç-heçə və 24 məğlubiyyət qeydə alınıb.
“Araz-Naxçıvan” ilk ev qələbəsini 2000/01 mövsümündə əldə edib. 2001-ci il martın 12-də Quba “Şahdağ”ı ilə matç baş tutmadığı üçün naxçıvanlılara texniki qələbə verilib.
Qeyd edək ki, “Araz-Naxçıvan” turnirin tarixinə öz meydanında ən azı 30 dəfə qalib gələn 26-cı komanda kimi düşüb.
“Qarabağ” bu yay ikinci transferini reallaşdırıb. Msport.az xəbər Ağdam təmsilçisi 26 yaşlı qambiyalı hücumçu Zakaria Savonu heyətinə qatıb. Forvard son […]
Mario Gila posted a message that felt like a goodbye to the Lazio fans, as his agent claims there has been no new contract offer. ‘I gave everything and am proud of what I became here.’
This is because his contract only runs to June 2027, and his agent repeatedly stated that Lazio have not contacted him to discuss a renewal.
Gila played in last night’s 2-1 victory over Pisa at the Stadio Olimpico and his message on Instagram today seemed to be reflecting on more than just the end of the current campaign.
Gila message to Lazio fans and teammates
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Mario Gila of SS Lazio reacts during the Coppa Italia final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
“Dear Laziali, we say goodbye to a very important season in my career, certainly not in terms of results, but I was fortunate to live these moments with a truly incredible team,” wrote Gila.
“I gave everything for his badge and am truly proud of what I became here at Lazio.
“First of all, I want to thank all my teammates for the support we gave each other in the most difficult moments, for the unforgettable memories we experienced together, and also for the daily ones that make every day happier.
“I want to especially thank my partner for supporting me in the toughest times, and above all for giving me the greatest joy possible in my life: our family. I love you Eleonora.
“And finally, I wish to thank the legend of football that is Pedro. You leave here, I know you have a bitter taste in your mouth at not being able to win something, because this is what makes you so special: humility, the courage and desire to always win, which you passed on over the years.
“We thank you and I thank you for being by our side during these five years. We’ll miss you a lot, Pedro. You were a very important reference point.”
ROME, ITALY – MAY 23: Pedro #9 with his teammates of SS Lazio celebrate after scoring the team’s second goal during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Pisa SC at Stadio Olimpico on May 23, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Pedro’s contract expires on June 30 and he is not going to sign a renewal, but is also not expected to hang up his boots just yet either.
Gila has been at Lazio since 2022 and this season made 36 appearances between Serie A and the Coppa Italia.
SAO PAULO, BRAZIL – FEBRUARY 11: Hernan Crespo, head coach of Sao Paulo smiles during a Brasileirao 2026 match between Sao Paulo and Gremio at MorumBIS Stadium on February 11, 2026 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images)
The 50-year-old Argentine was a legend in Italian football when playing upfront for Parma, Lazio, Inter, Milan and Genoa, closing his career back at the Stadio Tardini in January 2012.
He scored 153 goals in 340 Serie A games, winning three Scudetto titles, the Coppa Italia, UEFA Cup, five editions of the Supercoppa Italiana and one Capocannoniere crown.
Crespo began his management career in Italy with the Parma Under-19 team in 2014-15, then had 35 games with Modena in Serie B.
He since sat on the benches of Banfield, Defensa, Al-Duhail, Al-Ain and most recently his second spell at Sao Paulo, which concluded in March.
This is all hypothetical and based on Safi winning the election, but the Italian legend would represent a powerful figure in the campaign.
Maldini and Pioli ready for Fenerbahce
FLORENCE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 2: Head coach Stefano Pioli manager of ACF Fiorentina looks on during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and US Lecce at Artemio Franchi on November 2, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
It is suggested that Maldini would want to reunite with his old coach Pioli, who was on the Rossoneri bench from 2019 to 2024.
Since then, Pioli has worked for Al-Nassr and very briefly at Fiorentina, where he was sacked just 14 competitive games into the current season.
Among the reasons for Maldini’s dismissal from Milan in 2023 was his insistence that the club not fire Pioli, so the pair do have a strong history together.
Interim Italy coach Silvio Baldini is set to name a largely experimental squad for June’s friendly matches against Greece and Luxembourg, with Lazio goalkeeper Edoardo Motta and Borussia Dortmund teenager Samuele Inacio among those under consideration for surprise call-ups.
Italy will take to the field without the majority of the senior players who failed to qualify for the World Cup, with the exception of captain Gianluigi Donnarumma, who has volunteered to lead a squad drawn almost entirely from Baldini’s Under-21 pool.
According to Goal, the confirmed core includes Kayode, Bartesaghi, Ahanor, Ndour, Casadei, Koleosho, Palestra, Pisilli and Francesco Pio Esposito.
DORTMUND, GERMANY – MAY 08: Samuele Inacio of Borussia Dortmund celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Bundesliga match between Borussia Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt at Signal Iduna Park on May 08, 2026 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Leon Kügeler/Getty Images)
Inacio’s senior debut for Italy could come before Under-21 call-up as father reveals World Cup dream
Motta’s potential inclusion is subject to a fitness check, with the Lazio stopper having missed the club’s final two matches of the season against Roma and Pisa due to a hamstring problem.
Should he be passed fit, he would compete alongside Palmisani and Daffara, both standout performers in Serie B this season.
The more eye-catching potential selection is Inacio.
The 18-year-old son of former Italian striker Inacio Pià has never been called up to the senior squad, and remarkably has not featured for the Under-21s either despite progressing through every age group from Under-15 to Under-19.
Having recently broken into Borussia Dortmund’s first team, scoring his first professional goal against Eintracht Frankfurt, and renewed his contract until 2029, a senior call-up would leapfrog him past the youth ranks entirely.
His father made his son’s allegiances clear. “He feels 100% Italian,” Pià told Tuttosport. “He dreams of winning the World Cup with the Azzurri shirt. He has never seen Italy play in a World Cup finals. We are all very sad about that.”
Guardiola names Bernardo and Stones in line-up for final City game
John Stones and Bernardo Silva will start their final games for Manchester City against Aston Villa today as Pep Guardiola names his last line-up as our manager.
Bernardo will captain the side on his 460th appearance for the Blues – more than any other player under Guardiola – while Stones features for the 295th time after 10 years with the Club.
Ahead of our final match of the season, City are guaranteed to finish second in the Premier League having won two trophies this season with the FA Cup and Carabao Cup taking Guardiola’s haul to 20 in 10 years.
After a gruelling end of season schedule, the boss has made nine changes from the side that drew at Bournemouth with only Bernardo and Antoine Semenyo starting both games.
No doubt Guardiola will want to go out on a win to cap an extraordinary time with the Club.
Villa meanwhile, will want to mark their Europa League triumph after winning a major trophy for the first time in 30 years.
James Trafford returns in goal for City with a back-four that is likely to be Rico Lewis and Nathan Ake as full-backs either side of a defensive pairing of Ruben Dias and Stones.
Nico will take the holding midfield role with a flexible midfield of Bernardo, Tijjani Reijnders and Phil Foden with Savinho and Semenyo lead the attack.
Etihad celebration
There is set to be a record crowd here today to say goodbye to three City legends.
Under development since late 2023 the newly expanded North Stand adds over 7,000 new seats to Etihad Stadium, bringing the stadium capacity to over 61,000.
And appropriately it has been renamed ‘The Pep Guardiola Stand’ as he takes charges for a last time.
Today is set to break City’s Premier League attendance record set on the final day of the 2023/24 season when 55,097 fans were here as we secured our title for a record fourth successive year with a win over West Ham in May 2024.
Emotional day
It’s the end of an era today and will be a day of celebration as well as one where a lot of tears will be shed.
We have an extraordinary decade under Guardiola and sadly it comes to an end after an unprecedent period of success.
On top of that we’re losing two of our greatest players of all time with Stones and Bernardo bidding a fond farewell.
There’s too many memories to recall from three of the greatest servants of all time but there was one famous end of season clash against Aston Villa that will forever.
That 3-2 victory on the final day of the 2021/22 campaign when we fought back from two goals down to win the Premier League is just one reminder of everything that has been achieved in the greatest decade of the Club’s history.
Match stats
City have won 19 of our last 20 Premier League home games against Aston Villa, winning each of the last 15 since April 2007.
Aston Villa have won three of their last five Premier League games against City and are looking to complete a league double over us for the first time since 1962/63.
We have won our final league match in eight of our previous nine seasons under Pep Guardiola, losing the other when we were already champions at Brentford in 2022/23. We have won our last six when finishing the season at home since 2012/13.
Villa have lost their final Premier League match of the season more often than any other side (16), including a 3-2 loss at the Etihad in 2021/22.
When playing their final league match of the season away from home, Villa have won just one of their last 27 games and are winless in 13 since a 3-1 win at Chelsea in 2001/02.
City are unbeaten in our last 15 Premier League games since January. Only in 2023/24 have we had a longer unbeaten run at the end of a Premier League campaign.
Following their 4-2 win against Liverpool last time out, Aston Villa are looking to win consecutive Premier League games for the first time since a run of eight in November/December.
With 27 goals already, Erling Haaland is likely to win his third Premier League golden boot in four seasons in the competition. He would be the fifth player to win the award as many times, after Thierry Henry (4), Mohamed Salah (4), Alan Shearer (3) and Harry Kane (3).
Ollie Watkins has been involved in eight goals in his last nine Premier League appearances (six goals, two assists), just one fewer than in his first 29 this season (eight goals, one assist).
Join us at Co-Op Live for the ‘After Party’
To mark the achievements of Manchester City men’s, women’s and academy teams during the 25/26 season, we can confirm that an open top bus parade will take place on Monday 25th May, followed by ‘The After Party’ a special celebration event at Co-op Live.
Kenny Atkinson used the word "process" so many times after Games 1 and 2 that it became a running conversation on Cleveland sports radio. Nick Pedone of 92.3 The Fan had heard enough of it before Saturday's Game 3 even tipped off. Then the Knicks won again.
New York beat the Cavaliers 121-108 at Rocket Arena to take a 3-0 series lead, putting Cleveland on the brink of elimination.
Jalen Brunson scored 30 points, Mikal Bridges added 22 on 11-of-15 shooting, and OG Anunoby chipped in 21 more. The Knicks extended their postseason winning streak to 10 straight games.
New York is now one win from its first NBA Finals appearance since 1999.
"I don't care what your process says. I don't think Cavs fans want to hear about your process being right and you patting yourself on the back for taking open shots when you can't even make 30 percent of them."
Why Pedone's pre-game frustration with the process narrative lands differently now Earlier Saturday, before tip-off, Pedone made his position clear on-air alongside Scott Ruiter.
"I don't care what your process says. I don't think Cavs fans want to hear about your process being right and you patting yourself on the back for taking open shots when you can't even make 30 percent of them," Pedone said.
Atkinson had leaned heavily on the process framing after both losses at Madison Square Garden, including telling reporters after Game 2 that he thought "the process was right tonight" despite dropping a 109-93 decision.
Knicks have now won all but one of 11 postseason games by double digits. New York's average margin of victory across the series sits at 22.5 points.
No team in NBA history has come back from 0-3. Game 4 is Monday night in Cleveland. Atkinson will be ready to face the same questions he has faced since Game 1. It's one thing if he tries mentioning the 'process' again; it's another if there's still anyone who listens.
On Sunday afternoon, the Seattle Storm are slated to welcome the Washington Spirit into the Climate Pledge Arena, as they look to build on its win against the Connecticut Sun earlier in the week. Zia Cooke went off for Seattle, dropping 25 points on 50 percent shooting from the field, along with five rebounds.
While all eyes will be on Cooke to see if she can replicate her production off the bench again, there is another storyline to follow for Sunday’s match: the potential debut of Awa Fam. According to the WNBA’s injury report, Fam is listed as “probable” due to reconditioning.
Why was Fam out for the Storm’s previous matches?
The 19-year-old was taken with the third overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft by Seattle, but was unavailable for a short period of time as she was still playing for Valencia in Spain’s Liga Femenina, as the team secured its third-straight title.
During her time with Valencia, Fam averaged nine points, 4.9 rebounds, and 0.5 blocks per game, meaning that she’ll provide some meaningful depth in the front court for Seattle. Fam will share time under the basket with the likes of Stefanie Dolson, and Dominique Malonga, who is in the WNBA’s concussion protocol following a physical match against the Toronto Tempo.
The Storm take on the Spirit on Sunday afternoon, with tip-off from Seattle slated for 3:00 p.m. PST.
Liverpool face Brentford in their final game of the season, where avoiding defeat would secure Champions League qualification for the Reds.
Arne Slot’s side currently sit 5th in the table, after suffering a 4-2 away defeat to Aston Villa last week.
Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson’s farewell to Anfield add another emotional layer to this one. The likes of Joe Gomez, Alisson Becker and Curtis Jones could all play their final game in red today.
Confirmed Starting XI
Liverpool XI vs Brentford: Alisson, Jones, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson, Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Salah, Gakpo, Ngumoha
Sky Sports: Manchester United in ‘advanced talks’ to sign £45m-rated midfielder
Manchester United Transfer News: Ederson Talks Advance
Manchester United’s midfield rebuild appears to be gathering pace, with Sky Sports reporting that the club are in advanced talks with Atalanta over Brazilian midfielder Ederson.
Sky Sports News’ Dan Khan, Vik Varange and Dharmesh Sheth report: “Manchester United are in advanced talks with Atalanta over Brazilian midfielder Ederson.”
That line alone will excite supporters. United have needed more authority, athleticism and control in midfield, and Ederson has long looked like the type of player capable of adding steel without slowing the team down.
Ederson Valuation Gap Remains
Sky Sports state there is “still a gap in the player’s valuation between the two clubs”, with Atalanta wanting around £45m. However, there is confidence that an agreement can be reached at a lower price soon.
That matters. Ederson is out of contract next summer, which naturally weakens Atalanta’s negotiating position. United, under Michael Carrick, appear to be moving with purpose rather than panic.
Photo: IMAGO
Personal Terms Boost United Hopes
Perhaps the most encouraging part of the report is that “personal terms are not thought to be an issue.” That suggests the player is open to the move, and United are unlikely to face a major obstacle once the clubs agree a fee.
Sky also note that United have held a “long-term interest in Ederson during his time at Atalanta.” That points to planning, not opportunism.
Atalanta Admission Adds Weight
Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino added intrigue by confirming that Ederson was an unused substitute against Fiorentina because a “‘major club’ is following him.”
That is rarely accidental language. Clubs protect assets when talks become serious, and this feels like a transfer moving into its decisive stage.
United are also continuing background work on Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes, but Ederson looks the most advanced option right now.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
From a Manchester United perspective, this is exactly the sort of move that feels smart, aggressive and necessary. Ederson is not a vanity signing. He is not a shirt seller first and footballer second. He is a proper midfield operator, someone who can bring legs, bite and composure to a side that has too often looked stretched in central areas.
Michael Carrick knows midfield better than most, so if United are pushing hard for Ederson, that should carry weight with supporters. Carrick built his own playing career on positioning, passing angles and game intelligence. If he sees Ederson as a key piece, fans should be encouraged.
The £45m asking price may sound steep, but with the player’s contract situation, United should be able to negotiate. This is where the club must be sharp. No overpaying, no delays, no drawn out saga.
Baleba and Mateus Fernandes are interesting names, but Ederson feels ready for the Premier League battle now. If United can land him at a sensible fee, this could be one of those signings that looks better every month.
This marks the Bruins’ 34th appearance in the WCWS, which is the most for any NCAA softball program in history. UCLA also has an NCAA-record 12 national championships, with Arizona and Oklahoma tied for the second-most with eight titles.
UCLA head coach Kelly Inouye-Perez contributed to eight of those national championships as both a player and coach. As the Bruins look to win their first NCAA title since 2019, Inouye-Perez said this season’s squad resembles previous UCLA championship teams.
“I still have visuals of how we went about [winning national championships,] that there’s a good magic feeling of really everyone committing to sticking to a plan on how we’re going to find a way to win,” Inouye-Perez said, per the Los Angeles Times. “And this team, you can feel it.”
UCLA celebrate with fans after beating UCF 14-4 on Saturday to advance to the Women’s College World Series. (Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times)
UCLA Hits NCAA-Record 200 Home Runs
UCLA pulled off a sweep over Central Florida in the best-of-three super regional at Easton Stadium. On Friday, the Bruins run-ruled the Knights 9-1 in five innings. Then, on Saturday, UCLA defeated UCF 14-4 to clinch a spot in the WCWS.
The Bruins have one of the best offenses in NCAA history and proved that on Saturday when it became the first NCAA Division I softball team to hit 200 home runs in a season.
UCLA hit seven home runs across both super regional game to reach the mark. Redshirt freshman infielder Aleena Garcia hit two, three-run homers on Saturday, while freshman third baseman Bri Alejandre hit a home run on both nights.
Defensively, ace Taylor Tinsley pitched all 12 innings for UCLA in the super regional. The Third Team All-American senior pitcher struck out 13 batters while giving up 12 hits and five runs throughout the series.
“She’s a true competitor,” UCF coach Cindy Ball-Malone said of Tinsley, per the Los Angeles Times. “She’s good, and she got better as she kept going and her offense makes her really lethal, too.”
Who Will UCLA Play in WCWS?
UCLA will kick off the WCWS against Alabama on Thursday at Devon Park in Oklahoma City. The Bruins and Crimson Tide will be part of Bracket 1.
Bracket 1 will also include the winner between Oklahoma and Mississippi State and the winner between Texas Tech and Florida. Oklahoma, Texas Tech and Florida all made appearances at the WCWS last season, while Mississippi State has never been to a WCWS.
In the other bracket, Arkansas, Tennessee and Nebraska have punched their tickets to the WCWS. The final team in that bracket will either be defending champions, Texas, or Arizona State.
Teenage sensation Blades Brown is on the verge of another impressive accomplishment.
Brown, 19, carded seven birdies at TPC Craig Ranch in Dallas on Saturday, signing for a 6-under 65 in the third round of The CJ Cup Byron Nelson. He climbed to T-12 at 14-under 199. That makes the final round an important day for the Tennessee native who turned pro at age 17.
Brown, who is a member of the Korn Ferry Tour this season, entered this week 42.553 points short of the threshold for Special Temporary Membership on the PGA Tour, which he can reach with a solo 21st this week. Special Temporary Membership grants unlimited sponsor exemptions for the remainder of the 2026 season. It can be earned by gaining enough FedEx Cup points to match the 150th player from the previous season's standings. As a non-member, Brown is limited to taking a maximum of seven sponsor exemptions. This week didn’t count as one as he earned his spot in the field by virtue of finishing T-9 at the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic two weeks ago.
Brown has made six Tour starts this season, recording two top-10s, including a third-place finish at the Puerto Rico Open, and missing just one cut.
Brown has experience going the special temporary membership route to earning full-time status. In 2025, he did just that on the Korn Ferry Tour, securing his full card for this season and in eight starts has a runner-up and third-place finish to his credit. But if Brown can finish 21st or better, he may be saying so long to the Tour’s developmental circuit and hello to special temporary membership and full pursuit of his playing privileges in the big leagues for 2027.
Adam Schupak is a senior writer for Golfweek, covering the PGA Tour.
🎥 Spurs fans swarm team bus to inspire PL survival
Hope is a thing with feathers, and Tottenham fans will need it today!
Ahead of Sunday's decisive clash against Everton, the Lilywhites are hoping to secure Premier League safety and see fellow Londoners West Ham United drop instead.
Ahead of kickoff at the grounds, Tottenham fans have rallied around their team with a fitting send-off, showing great support ahead
Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing sensation, Tyler Reddick, will start the race on the pole as he aims to continue his hot streak this season, followed by Ty Gibbs in the No. 54 Toyota on the outside.
The 2026 Coca-Cola 600 is set to begin at 6:00 p.m. ET on Prime Video.
May 23, 2026; Concord, North Carolina, USA; Richard Childress Racing driver Austin Hill (33) wears a tshirt with the photo of deceased Kyle Busch during qualifying at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
The Coca-Cola 600 will run 400 laps around Charlotte’s 1.5-mile track for a total of 600 miles. Adam Alexander, Dale Earnhardt Jr., and Steve Letarte will be on the call.
Where will your favorite driver start Sunday afternoon’s race?
A full look at the starting lineup for the Coca-Cola 600 can be seen below.
NASCAR at Charlotte, Coca-Cola 600 Starting Lineup
May 23, 2026; Concord, North Carolina, USA; 23XI Racing driver Tyler Reddick (45) during qualifying at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
With two huge commitments yesterday, Penn State has achieved what had seemingly been impossible: being the No. 1 recruiting class in the Big Ten. While both signees were only three-star players, they completely fit the profile of what Campbell is trying to build. Sean Currie is only the second tight end in the class, but he could develop into a solid blocker up front. Aniti Paiva is a three-star defensive tackle, but his ability to open up space for other players up front cannot be denied.
As it currently stands after this weekend's newest additions to the Class of 2027 lineup, Penn State ranks No. 5 in the nation in the updated class rankings from 247Sports. Penn State also leads the Big Ten with the No. 1 recruiting class at the moment.
This adjustment to Campbell's recruiting style is a bit of a risk, but at Iowa State, Campbell was able to make all his new recruits work in a system that fits them. The fact that his first class at Penn State is regarded so highly is a good sign of a potentially smooth adjustment process even in a much more grueling conference. This also marks one of the largest classes in the nation this cycle, ranking only second behind Oklahoma State. That volume could also be a massive factor to the success of Penn State's incoming class.
Most importantly though is that all the players that Campbell recruits are either versatile enough to be molded or fit in, no matter what recruiting rankings say about them. For Sean Currie, football may not have even been his top sport, as he was also a highly ranked lacrosse recruit and had committed to Virginia to play both sports. Still, when he de-committed, it was a sign to the Penn State staff that this kid could improve and be useful at the same time. In Paiva's case, Campbell was simply following his Iowa State blueprint: find a player with a low recruiting ranking that still fits our team's profile, and work on building him up.
At this point, no one truly knows what the future holds for this class. However, due to its rank, it may be time to start thinking big about what it could become.
Dan Burn and Jacob Murphy replace Kieran Trippier and Harvey Barnes respectively for this afternoon's clash at Craven Cottage, who both drop to the substitutes' bench.
Murphy, who has recorded three goal involvements in his last three Premier League matches against Fulham, is set for his 150th competitive start for his boyhood club.
Nick Pope, who has recorded 11 clean sheets in all competitions so far this season, continues in-between the sticks while Malick Thiaw and Sven Botman feature at the heart of United's backline.
Bruno Guimarães, who scored a late winner in October's 2-1 reverse league win against Fulham, captains the visitors in the capital and lines up alongside Sandro Tonali and Jacob Ramsey in the middle of the park.
Nick Woltemade, who scored his first Premier League goal of the calendar year in last weekend's 3-1 win against West Ham United, will aim to provide attacking support for Will Osula, with the in-form Dane scoring six goals in his last eight league outings.
Yoane Wissa, who netted his first Newcastle goal in December's Carabao Cup quarter-final victory against Fulham, is named on the bench as well as Joe Willock, Anthony Elanga and Anthony Gordon.
Sean Neave, who celebrates his 19th birthday on Wednesday, targets a Premier League debut for his boyhood club while Alex Murphy will be aiming for a first league appearance since January.
Aaron Ramsdale is the substitute goalkeeper.
Newcastle United: Nick Pope, Lewis Hall, Sven Botman, Sandro Tonali, Malick Thiaw, Will Osula, Jacob Murphy, Nick Woltemade, Dan Burn, Bruno Guimarães, Jacob Ramsey.
Substitutes: Aaron Ramsdale, Kieran Trippier, Yoane Wissa, Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, Anthony Elanga, Joe Willock, Alex Murphy, Sean Neave.
SAO PAULO, BRAZIL – FEBRUARY 11: Hernan Crespo, head coach of Sao Paulo smiles during a Brasileirao 2026 match between Sao Paulo and Gremio at MorumBIS Stadium on February 11, 2026 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images)
The 50-year-old Argentine was a legend in Italian football when playing upfront for Parma, Lazio, Inter, Milan and Genoa, closing his career back at the Stadio Tardini in January 2012.
He scored 153 goals in 340 Serie A games, winning three Scudetto titles, the Coppa Italia, UEFA Cup, five editions of the Supercoppa Italiana and one Capocannoniere crown.
Crespo began his management career in Italy with the Parma Under-19 team in 2014-15, then had 35 games with Modena in Serie B.
He since sat on the benches of Banfield, Defensa, Al-Duhail, Al-Ain and most recently his second spell at Sao Paulo, which concluded in March.
Confirmed Liverpool v Brentford team news: Henderson starts on Anfield return
Brentford head coach Keith Andrews has made two changes to the starting XI for this afternoon’s Premier League game against Liverpool at Anfield (4pm kick-off BST, live on Sky Sports).
The Bees close their 2025/26 campaign against Arne Slot’s side knowing a win or a draw could earn a place in European football for the first time in the club’s history, depending on results elsewhere.
Jordan Henderson starts for the first time since March’s draw at Leeds United on his return to the side where he spent 12 years, captaining the Reds to both Premier League and Champions League glory.
Kevin Schade also comes back into the team, with Mikkel Damsgaard moving onto the bench and Yehor Yarmoliuk not named in the matchday squad.
Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah are both named in Arne Slot's starting XI for the duo's respective last Liverpool games.
Liverpool (4-3-3): Alisson; Jones, van Dijk, Konaté, Robertson; Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Gravenberch; Ngumoha, Gakpo, Salah
Michael Carrick has selected his final Manchester United side of the 2025/26 season as his Red Devils face Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium.
It was decided in advance that last week’s home game against Nottingham Forest would be Casemiro’s last in a red shirt, so he has not travelled with the squad.
Benjamin Sesko and Matthijs de Ligt are still injured and also miss the game. With a third-place finish in the Premier League guaranteed, Carrick has still fielded a strong starting line-up as the Seagulls are fighting for a European place.
The back four are Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martínez and Luke Shaw.
The historically injury-prone Shaw completes a full season in the starting line-up today.
Midfield and Attack
Kobbie Mainoo is partnered by Manuel Ugarte in central midfield.
Ahead of them, Bruno Fernandes is in the number 10 role, with Matheus Cunha on the left wing and Amad on the right.
Fernandes equalled Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne’s record of 20 assists in a Premier League season and will be in the hunt for another today to claim the record outright.
Bryan Mbeumo is up front.
Substitutes
On the bench are reserve keeper Altay Bayindir, Noussair Mazraoui, Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven, Patrick Dorgu, Tyrell Malacia, Jack Fletcher, Tyler Fletcher, Mason Mount, Joshua Zirkzee and Shea Lacey.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JANUARY 11: Demarcus Robinson #5 of the San Francisco 49ers catches a touchdown against Quinyon Mitchell #27 of the Philadelphia Eagles during the first quarter in the NFC Wild Card Playoff game at Lincoln Financial Field on January 11, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) | Getty Images
So, some good news about the 2026 San Francisco 49ers schedule is that most of their last wins against each of their opponents don’t go further back than a year. Well, except for one team that the 49ers beat over a decade ago. We’ll get to that.
Regardless, even though they have beaten most of their opponents recently, there are still some painful losses after that win. But we won’t talk about all that. This is the last time the 49ers beat each of their opponents on the 2026 schedule:
Seattle Seahawks Last Win: September 7, 2025 Final Score: 17-13
Well, at least the last win doesn’t go back to 2024. The 49ers opened with an impressive Week 1 victory that had some unfortunate consequences following the end of the fourth quarter. Both Brock Purdy and Ricky Pearsall showed up. So did George Kittle, until he got sidelined with an injury following a first-quarter touchdown. Without Kittle, Purdy continued to impress and ended things with a dart to then-unknown tight end named Jacob Tonges.
Purdy didn’t play his best game, there were interceptions, but he still showed up when it mattered to put his team on top. Nick Bosa would seal the deal with a fumble
What’s funny is that Bosa would not be around for the second game of the season. Kittle would join Bosa on the injured list for the NFC Divisional loss. While it’s Week 1 and sloppy football is expected, it does show you that when the 49ers are fully healthy, they can hang with the Super Bowl champs.
This also would be the final game for Jake Moody, an experiment at kicker that just simply didn’t work out as Moody whiffed a few more chipshots. Enough for the 49ers coaching staff to say enough was enough.
Miami Dolphins Last Win: December 4, 2022 Final Score: 33-17
The win is not what we remember in this game. No, what we remember is the second-string quarterback, Jimmy Garoppolo, going down with a foot injury and some rookie third-stringer named Brock Purdy getting sent out on the field.
Purdy would hold onto the starting job and never give it back.
That’s not to say Purdy’s inexperience wasn’t for everyone to see. He threw some errant passes and didn’t have much trust in the coaching staff when things got started. Maybe his passing would need (quick) work, but one thing was clear: Purdy wasn’t afraid of the NFL, as evidenced by this play at the end of the first half.
Awesome throw and read by Brock Purdy here. Stood talk in the pocket, took a hit and delivered a great throw pic.twitter.com/ecliagowGc
Purdy would solidify things the next week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Arizona Cardinals Last Win: November 16, 2025 Final Score: 41-22
The Cardinals have a habit of being annoying at times and beating the 49ers in a game the Cardinals probably shouldn’t win on paper. Some of that might no longer be an issue with Kyler Murray’s departure. In 2025, the Cardinals put up a fight in both games, but the 49ers swept them.
The Cardinals had a chance in their second meeting. Sure, they had Jacoby Brissett throwing the ball, but the 49ers had a defense with a laughably bad pass rush. None of that really affects the special teams unit because this game began with Skye Moore taking a kickoff a yard away from the end zone. The 49ers punched it in shortly thereafter.
The Cardinals managed to make a game of things until the end of the second quarter when the 49ers went up 22-10. From there, it was just a matter of getting off the field with little injuries. The Cardinals will be a different team in 2026 with a new coach. We don’t know who the quarterback is, but we know it won’t be Kyler Murray.
Denver Broncos Last Win: December 9, 2018 Final Score: 20-14
There wasn’t much to write about for the 2018 season. Starting quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo went down with a torn ACL in Week 3, and that put the 49ers in the Nick Bosa Sweepstakes.
But the Broncos did give us more of the George Kittle show. Kittle would set the record for most receiving yards by a tight end in a single season at the end of 2018 with 1,377 yards receiving, and a lot of that came here.
Kittle walked away from this game with 210 yards and became the 49ers’ first tight end to reach the 1,000-yard milestone. He almost got the record for most yards receiving in a single game with this performance, just four yards shy of Shannon Sharpe.
There weren’t many good things from 2018, but we’ll always remember the George Kittle show.
Los Angeles Rams Last Win: October 2, 2025 Final Score: 26-23 (Overtime)
How the 49ers pulled this off, we may never know. They didn’t have Brock Purdy, Ricky Pearsall, Nick Bosa, and others, yet they hung with the Rams in Los Angeles and gave them stuff after stuff when the Rams tried to hit paydirt.
There are a lot of things we can bring up, like how Mac Jones took an absolute beating (and should have had more flags), or Kendrick Bourne getting signed due to the injuries and looking like he never left.
This was a statement by the 49ers defense to say 2024 (a very bad year) was behind them. First, they stop the Rams at the one-yard line with a fumble. Then, when overtime hits, they stop the Rams again on a weird call to go for it on the ground (the Rams had been getting great success in the air all night).
This was also the game when Eddie Pinerio made us feel better about the kicker position, since he was hitting anything he could get his hands—or foot— on. All extra points and four of his field goals, including a 59-yarder (his career-long).
Washington Commanders Last Win: December 31, 2023 Final Score: 27-10
Once upon a time, the Brock Purdy/Brandon Aiyuk connection was a thing of beauty. This game was a good example of it. The 49ers had things just about wrapped up for the season and managed to stay relatively healthy. They reached a quick 10-0 lead, but in true 49er fashion, played with their food and the Commanders were in it until midway into the third when Purdy put his foot on the gas.
Purdy went 22 for 28, 230 yards, and two touchdowns. Aiyuk accounted for 114 of those yards and the final touchdown to put things out of reach.
Atlanta Falcons Last Win: October 19, 2025 Final Score: 20-10
The playbook for this game was simple: run with Christian McCaffrey, pass to Christian McCaffrey. McCaffrey got 129 yards on the ground and another 72 yards catching passes from Mac Jones, who was filling in for Brock Purdy.
The Falcons kept a close game and wouldn’t go away. The 49ers were in the lead 13-10 and some (not all of you) probably wondered how the 49ers could blow this one. The Falcons had the ball on a crucial fourth-and-1 almost midway into the fourth quarter and the 49ers got the stop. They then put it up 20-10 and went to 5-2, proving again how impressive things were despite all the issues.
This was a very crucial game for the 49ers, given they were dealing with so much adversity, and the Falcons (at the time) were starting to get a bit warm. At the end of the day, it was an impressive night by a defense decimated by injuries.
Las Vegas Raiders Last Win: January 1, 2023 Final Score: 37-34
A few of us were definitely wondering what the hell was going on in this one. On one side, you had Brock Purdy and an electric 49ers offense. On the other side, you had…Jarrett Stidham? Somehow, the Raiders stayed in this thing until the very end. Even taking the lead—and adding to it.
Purdy played well when it mattered, but still had a weird interception, forcing a ball to George Kittle in the third quarter.
And then Robbie Gould, Mr. Automatic, somehow misses a crucial game-winning field goal, something he never does, and the game goes to overtime. Luckily, he made the kick in overtime to seal the deal.
Meanwhile, Stidham goes 23 for 34, 365 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions. Brock Purdy had a 95.4 passer rating; Stidham had a 108.1. Just a weird game.
At the end of the day, the 49ers managed to beat the Raiders after it went to overtime and hold onto their playoff seeding for the postseason.
New York Giants Last Win: November 2, 2025 Final Score: 34-24
What do you give a 49ers team that had struggled to run the ball in 2025? A defense that was terrible at stopping the run in 2025 in the Giants.
The Giants struck blood early, but the 49ers, even injured, were still a better roster. Even with a 7-0 start, there wasn’t much fear of the 49ers falling too far behind. Once it got to 20-7 in the third quarter, it was pretty much all over.
The more notable thing from this game was yet another victim claimed by MetLife Stadium. Mykel Williams went down with an ACL injury, stunting his development and adding yet another defensive piece to the injured list.
Dallas Cowboys Last Win: October 27 2024 Final Score: 30-24
When it’s not the playoffs, it’s National TV. Either way, the Cowboys have a knack for losing to the 49ers. That looked to change in the opening moments of this game.
The 49ers had all sorts of issues in 2024, going into this 3-4 with questions about the defense under Nick Sorensen and about their ability to finish games. In this game, the questions were going unanswered until the start of the second half, when the 49ers scored 21 points. Add a field goal in the fourth quarter, and it’s 30-17 with the Cowboys trying to claw back into it.
They almost did, getting 14 points due to coverage misfires from the 49ers. At the end, the 49ers beat the Cowboys again and stayed alive, and the 49ers avoided any questions of something being seriously wrong for another week.
Minnesota Vikings Last Win: November 28, 2021 Final Score: 34-26
The series between these two is tied at 25-25-1. That lone tie comes from 20-20 standoff in 1966. The 2021 win comes from an absolute slugfest between Kirk Cousins and Jimmy Garoppolo. Everyone was talking about this game, and it didn’t disappoint.
Things started with the Vikings taking control. The 49ers followed very close behind and tied the game up seconds before the end of the first half.
The 49ers started coming alive, making it 28-14. Unfortunately, as the 49ers’ special teams did, there was a gaffe at the worst possible moment: 31-20, and fresh off a field goal, the Vikings took the ensuing kickoff to the house. At least they failed the two-point conversion. Had they made that, it would have been a very, very different game.
The 49ers got another field goal, and from the final minutes of the third quarter through the fourth, it was a matter of keeping the Vikings out of the end zone. No further points were scored, but that didn’t mean that the final quarter wasn’t exciting.
The Vikings mentioned how the 49ers were getting away with penalties, George Kittle would have none of it saying the Vikings “flopped a lot” and said they needed to play better defense.
Los Angeles Chargers Last Win: November 13, 2022 Final Score: 22-16
One of Jimmy Garoppolo’s final games with the 49ers. Justin Herbert vs. DeMeco Ryans. Herbert finished with a 73 passer rating. Garoppolo with a 94.3.
This was one of those nail-biter games, however. The Chargers got out to a 13-3 lead with the 49ers clawing back into it—thanks largely in part to a Brandon Aiyuk fumble and they wouldn’t see the lead until midway in the fourth quarter.
The Chargers made it 16-10 at halftime, but that was all they would score for the rest of the game. The 49ers got back into it with a touchdown and a pair of field goals to turn things around in what was a very tense night.
Kansas City Chiefs Last Win: October 5, 2014 Final Score: 22-17
Ugh. The 49ers haven’t beaten the Chiefs in over a decade. The last time they beat them? Colin Kaepernick was the quarterback for the 49ers, and Alex Smith was the quarterback for the Chiefs.
In fact, this game was called the “That’s why you were traded, Alex” with Smith trying to get something together in the Chiefs’ final drive, but throwing an interception to Perrish Cox to end any sort of a comeback. This was the first game Smith and Kaepernick played against each other in the regular season, and it had all sorts of hype going in.
And, that’s the last time the 49ers beat the Chiefs.
Philadelphia Eagles Last Win: January 11, 2026 Final Score: 23-19
Even I didn’t think the 49ers were going to pull this one off. That’s what I get for thinking. This one is so fresh in everyone’s minds, what can I say that hasn’t been said about this? Putting the win aside for a moment, you couldn’t ask for a better season for the rookies from the 2025 and 2024 draft classes. Not only did they get playoff experience, but they got to win a playoff game. Brock Purdy did what he could do with what he had, and the defense stepped up at the most crucial of times to seal it.
The game itself was what you’d expect from a hobbled 49ers team. Things got worse when George Kittle was knocked out with an Achilles injury. But then the Jauan Jennings play happened, and the 49ers looked like they might win it. Most don’t talk about the second touchdown from Brock Purdy to Christian McCaffrey as part of the series of events to win this thing, but it deserves mention as well.
Of all the games we have listed here, this one might have been the most significant over the last few years—and not for just advancing in the postseason. The 49ers went on the road, into the defending champions’ house, and beat them to advance in the playoffs. That will carry benefits long past the date of the win.
May 23, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CANADA; Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen (3) during the sprint race of the Lenovo Grand Prix Du Canada at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve
Canada is one of the trickiest circuits on the calendar, with unbalanced chicanes, the Virage Senna, and the hairpin. It’s showing, as a lot of drivers are struggling. Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc said this has been the worst weekend of his whole Formula 1 career. However, Red Bull — particularly Max Verstappen — may be having a more difficult time, even though he qualified two places above Leclerc.
Red Bull brought an upgrade package to Miami that worked well. Verstappen finished in the top five in the Sprint Race, qualified second later on in the day, but after spinning in the first turn, he ended up finishing in fifth once again. Teammate Isack Hadjar crashed out of the race.
Red Bull brought a few more toys to Montréal; however, the car looks to be back to pre-Miami form, where both drivers are stuck in no man’s land. Verstappen finished FP1 in P5, ahead of both McLaren's and right behind both Mercedes' and Ferrari’s. It looked like a promising weekend was ahead, but it fell off quickly.
Verstappen would qualify P7 for the Sprint and finish it there. He was right there with the cars, but he struggled to gain any serious time needed to make an attempt at an overtake. Qualifying was where things really went downhill, as Verstappen just couldn’t get anything going. Hadjar, on the other hand, either topped the timesheets or got close to doing so in all of Q1 and Q2. Out of nowhere, all of that pace went away, and Hadjar ended up qualifying one place behind Verstappen in P8.
It was one thing after another for Verstappen, who qualified P7 for Sunday’s Grand Prix. Whether he couldn’t get any temperature into his front tires, or his steering was off, he couldn't maximize the car. When asked about qualifying by the media, Max said, “I don't know. That's the honest answer. I have no idea what is going on. Everything is so confusing.”
Verstappen was vocal about his issues on the radio, and when asked about it, he said that every lap just got worse, “Every lap I did, no matter how more I drove, the slower I went on the straights. I make up lap time in the corners, and I lost more than I won on the straights. No clue if we did stuff correctly there. I asked a few times, [but] didn't hear anything back. Got no feedback.” When asked about why he didn’t get any feedback, Verstappen replied, “Yeah, they probably didn't know why themselves.”
The real problem here is Verstappen told the team that this setup wasn’t going to work many times, but Red Bull was so adamant they wanted to do it, so he said fine, go ahead. “I tried something with the car; the team wanted that. I told them, ‘Go ahead, but that's clearly not the right direction.’ I already could've guessed that, but at least we now know for sure. I tried it a lot of times, and it never works, but they're convinced it does, but it's clear it doesn't.”
Red Bull having Verstappen, whom many consider to be the best driver in the world, on their team and not listening to him is certainly a choice. Verstappen may be loud on the radio when things go south, but he never throws his team under the bus in post-interactions. He must’ve been really over the edge, or just not have cared anymore, because the team went their own way anyway. He sees where this ship is going.
There’s rain scheduled on the forecast, and that always shakes things up. Plus, Verstappen is a wizard in the wet. But, he wasn’t too confident about it, as he stated again how he’ll struggle to get heat into his intermediate or full wet tires if it gets to that point.
The bottom line is Verstappen, Hadjar, and the whole team have no idea what is wrong with the car, are still collecting data (data in which they have done nothing with), and have no idea where to make their first step. We’ll see how things go for Red Bull when the lights go out; Verstappen doesn’t seem so confident.
Confirmed Line-Ups: Manchester City vs Aston Villa (Premier League)
Pep Guardiola will take charge of a Manchester City game for the final time against Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
The 55-year-old is bringing the curtain down on an illustrious decade at the Etihad Stadium this summer, having led the Blues to the Carabao Cup and FA Cup double in his final season.
Guardiola was under contract at the Etihad Stadium till 2027 but decided against seeing out the final year of his deal, admitting in a press conference on Friday that he is running out of energy and thinks the club needs new ideas.
City finally gave in to Arsenal in the title race in midweek as Mikel Arteta and co were crowned Premier League champions after Guardiola’s side were held to a 1-1 draw by Bournemouth.
Gallery: Pep Guardiola’s daughter Maria posts emotional Instagram album ahead of Man City farewell
As Enzo Maresca prepares to succeed Guardiola as manager, City have commissioned a statue to commemorate the Catalan’s illustrious decade at the Etihad Stadium and renamed their home ground’s North Stand as ‘The Pep Guardiola Stand’.
Guardiola will depart as Manchester City manager after Sunday but take up a Global Ambassador role within the City Football Group as City’s owners seek the Catalan’s expertise in their world-wide setup.
Sunday’s fixture will mark final games in sky blue for Bernardo Silva and John Stones, the pair of whom are leaving Manchester City on free transfers in June.
Ahead of Sunday’s 16:00 UK kick-off between City and Aston Villa, here are the confirmed line-ups from the Etihad Stadium.
‘Here we go’ – Fabrizio Romano reveals Liverpool ‘agreement’ for South American prodigy
Fabrizio Romano has given the ‘here we go’ to Liverpool’s pursuit of a much sought-after teenage prodigy from South America.
Last month, it was reported that Anfield scouts had been keeping tabs on Samuel Martinez, a playmaker for Colombian outfit Atletico Nacional who turned 17 in early April and is understood to have been eager for a move to Europe.
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FIFA rules prohibit the international transfer of players under the age of 18, which means he’ll remain in his homeland for the next year, but it appears that the Reds have won the race for his signature.
Romano gives ‘here we go’ to Martinez to Liverpool
In an update on his eponymous YouTube channel, Romano revealed that Liverpool have agreed a deal to sign the Colombian teenager ahead of multiple European suitors, with the Merseysiders also understood to have arranged a sell-on clause if he goes on to join another club in the future.
The Italian transfer reporter outlined: “Samuel Martinez has agreed terms with Liverpool. He will join when he turns 18 in 2027.
“Borussia Dortmund were ready to make a deal happen with a big attack. There was also another European giant club – not from England, but another country – trying to enter the race for Martinez, considered a very interesting target, but Liverpool have an agreement with the boy.
“Liverpool have an agreement with Atletico Nacional. There will be also a small percentage of future sale that Liverpool have agreed in order to accelerate talks and close the deal as soon as possible, so Samuel Martinez to Liverpool is a ‘here we go’.”
Image via SVMM on YouTube
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It has the makings of a magnificent coup by Liverpool
It might not be a blockbuster signing to immediately raise the level of the Reds’ first team, but for Liverpool to fend off widespread European interest for Martinez must go down as an impressive coup by the Anfield hierarchy.
The 17-year-old has earned stylistic comparisons to former AC Milan and Brazil icon Kaka for his ‘lanky frame, upright style of running and deceptive speed in short bursts’ (The Athletic), and he starred with three assists in Colombia’s South American U-17 Championship triumph lastmonth.
The teenager has yet to make his senior debut for Atletico Nacional, but that’ll surely change between now and when he relocated to Merseyside after his 18th birthday next year.
Liverpool’s extensive scouting appears to have paid dividends, and while it might be some time before Martinez breaks into the first team at Anfield, his burgeoning reputation would suggest that a senior breakthrough with the Reds seems a matter of when rather than if.
It’ll be exciting to see what the teenager can produce in his homeland over the next few months before he comes to England. If he can make even half the impact over here that Kaka did in his playing career, this’ll go down as a massive win for the LFC recruitment and scouting team.
Rangers have agreed a deal for Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland, subject to a medical, which will take place in the coming days.
The Scotland forward, 30, has been consistently linked with the Ibrox club and is set to become Danny Rohl's first summer signing.
Shankland led Hearts to second place this season, with the Tynecastle side missing out on the title to Celtic on the final day. Since joining in 2022, the forward has scored 88 goals in 171 appearances.
He has the fourth most goals in the Premiership since the league was established in 2013, with a league haul of 77 putting him one behind former Rangers forward Alfredo Morelos.
In total, Shankland has scored 236 goals in 494 club games and four times in 18 Scotland matches.
[BBC]
Shankland moved to Hearts in 2022 after a year in Belgium with Beerschot. He previously played in his homeland with Aberdeen and Dundee United in the Premiership and Ayr United and Queen's Park in the lower leagues. He was also loaned out by Aberdeen to Dunfermline Athletic, Greenock Morton and St Mirren.
His most recent Scotland goal came in the World Cup qualification-clinching win over Denmark in November and he was one of five strikers named in Steve Clarke's squad for this summer's finals.
After the Scots face Curacao at Hampden on Saturday, they travel to the United States for a final warm-up game with Bolivia in New Jersey before Group C games with Haiti, Morocco and Brazil. The first two fixtures are in Massachusetts and the final group game takes place in Florida.
Rangers chairman Andrew Cavenagh spoke last Sunday about the club's need for leaders, ideally Scottish leaders and gnarled professionals.
He never mentioned Lawrence Shankland but almost didn't need to. The striker is everything he was describing. Rangers are not particularly lacking for goals - they outscored Celtic and Hearts in the Premiership in the season just gone - but they need steel and presence and Shankland provides that.
It was evident on Friday that things were moving quickly. It's still not definite - there's still a medical to complete - but everything is heading rapidly in the right direction from a Rangers' perspective, if not from a Hearts point of view.
Pending any departures he would join Youssef Chermiti, Ryan Naderi, Bojan Miovski and Danilo as Danny Rohl's options up front. It's unlikely that all of those will be Rangers players come the start of the season. Shankland, if it gets done, would be the main man.
People with knowledge of the negotiations are being coy about what Rangers are paying Hearts for Shankland. Both sides are not comfortable talking about a supposed break clause in Shankland's Hearts contract that would allow him to leave for nothing, a scenario that would, no doubt, infuriate Hearts fans even further.
Lawrence Shankland could join Rangers as captain James Tavernier leaves Ibrox [SNS]
Losing their captain and principal scorer is bad enough but losing him for little or no money might be deemed insult added to injury. Right now, the phrases being used are 'undisclosed fee' and 'Rangers paid the required amount'.
Shankland has a prolific record for Hearts against Rangers, scoring both in a 2-0 win at Ibrox in September, getting what turned out to be the winner against them in December and in May, both times at Tynecastle.
He scored against Rangers in a 3-3 draw in May, 2024 and scored in a 3-1 loss and a 2-1 loss in November and October 2023. He's the most prolific scorer Hearts have had since the great John Robertson.
Shankland netted 20 goals for Derek McInnes' team in their near-glory season, part of which he missed through injury. He's pushing hard to start for Scotland against Haiti in the opening game of the World Cup.
For McInnes, this will come as a bitter blow. Shankland and Hearts were at a bit of a stand-off at the end of season 2024-25, a long-running dispute over salary between the club and the player's representatives threatening to see an end of him at Tynecastle.
When McInnes was appointed manager, one of the main items on his list was to keep Shankland. He was insistent he needed the striker and a deal was done. McInnes and Shankland have worked excellently together. Those days would appear to be over. Shankland to Rangers will take a lot of beating as the signing of the summer.
'Don't see how Hearts replace him'
Former Hearts player Ryan Stevenson worries how the club will cope without their captain.
"Straight away, you're losing 20 to 30 goals a season if Shankland leaves," Stevenson told BBC Scotland. "You're losing your captain, who is pivotal on and off the park.
"One of Hearts' title rivals is potentially taking their best player. It's a bitter blow. They're going to somehow have to try to replace him and I just don't see how Hearts do that.
"They need to find solutions, maybe that's signing two players. They are going to have to put their money where their mouth is."
Stevenson also feels Shankland could take the captain's armband for Rangers with James Tavernier departing Ibrox after 11 years.
"From Rangers' point of view, what a signing," he said.
"I would be very surprised if he wasn't in with a shout of being Rangers captain too, with Tavernier leaving.
"I think he would score more goals for Rangers than he does for Hearts. If it goes through, it's a tremendous signing for Rangers."
Former Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel made his MMA debut on Saturday night, defeating podcaster and social media influencer Bob Menery at the the UFC Apex Center in Las Vegas.
Manziel, 33, quickly dispatched Menery, connecting with several kicks before taking him down to the canvas. The former Texas A&M star then kept Menery pinned down and pummeled him with several punches. With Menery unable to defend himself and losing his mouthpiece, the referee stopped the match at the 2:16 mark of the first round.
MAIN EVENT: Johnny Manziel takes the WIN over Bob Menery in ROUND 1 by REFEREE STOPPAGE 😳🥊 pic.twitter.com/Oh4zNOgdan
The former NFL first-round pick had a height and weight advantage over Menery, 38, known for his comedy videos on Instagram, voice acting and broadcasting. He put up little resistance, immediately going on the defensive while Manziel aggressively attacked him.
Lance Stephenson just submitted Michael Beasley in the first round
Manziel versus Menery was the co-main event of a UFC Apex card held by internet personality Adin Ross and his Brand Risk Promotions. The card included several other matches between social media personalities.
In another featured match, former NBA players Lance Stephenson and Michael Beasley also squared off. Stephenson defeated Beasley with a first-round submission.
Manziel won the 2012 Heisman Trophy, the first freshman to earn the honor. He passed for 3,706 yards and 26 touchdowns, leading the Aggies to an 11-2 record under head coach Kevin Sumlin. He improved on that performance the following season, throwing for 4, 114 yards and 37 TDs. Yet Manziel finished fifth in Heisman voting behind winner Jameis Winston.
The Cleveland Browns selected Manziel with their first-round pick (No. 22 overall) in 2014. In two seasons, Manziel started eight games and appeared in 14, passing for 1.675 yards, seven TDs and seven interceptions.
The Browns released him after the 2015 season, after which he played for the Montreal Alouettes and Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the Canadian Football League, in addition to the Memphis Express of the short-lived Alliance of American Football.
French hopeful Arthur Gea made a memorable, if uncomfortable, French Open debut Sunday, dramatically dashing from his first-round match for an emergency bathroom break early in the first set.
Trailing 13th-seeded Karen Khachanov 4-2, Gea urgently informed the chair umpire in French, "I need to go to the bathroom. I can’t move anymore. I’m going to (go) on the court," before hastily running off Court Suzanne-Lenglen.
This unscheduled mid-set departure, typically reserved for breaks between sets, drew a protest from Khachanov as three minutes passed without play. The 135th-ranked Gea ultimately fell to his opponent 6-3, 7-6 (3).
Gea later explained the umpire permitted the break due to "medical circumstances," and he was given medicine for stomach pain. He said he had woken up feeling unwell, a condition that intensified during play.
"During the match it was even worse," he said. "I had to go to the toilet really quick."
Karen Khachanov of Russia returns to Arthur Gea of France during the first round men's singles tennis match at the French Open tennis tournament in Paris, Sunday, May 24, 2026 (AP Photo/Aurelien Morissard)
The intense Roland Garros heat, with lunchtime temperatures hitting 31 degrees Celsius (88 Fahrenheit), likely compounded his discomfort.
"It was harder than usual, because I was ill," the 21-year-old added.
Gea had received a wild card invitation from organizers to participate in the main draw.
Among the early matches on Day 1 of the clay-court Grand Slam were 13th-seeded Khachanov against Gea on Court Suzanne-Lenglen and 15th-seeded Marta Kostyuk against Oksana Selekhmeteva on Court Simonne-Mathieu.
Spectators folded newspapers in half and fanned themselves to keep cool as players on court attempted to stay hydrated.
The opening match on Court Philippe-Chatrier, the main stadium, was due to start an hour later with 11th-seeded Belinda Bencic playing Sinja Kraus.
The night match on Chatrier features three-time champion Novak Djokovic against Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard.
Two days after his 39th birthday, Djokovic will play a men’s record 82nd Grand Slam tournament — one more than Roger Federer and Feliciano Lopez.
In five games, Ewing batted .643 with nine hits, including five home runs and two doubles, 10 RBIs, nine runs and no strikeouts. She had two homers and for RBIs against Olentangy Liberty and two homers and five RBIs against Thomas Worthington. She also didn’t commit an error from her shortstop position.
Ewing received 58.6% of the vote and was followed by Thomas Worthington softball player Ireland Bulger, who received 28.4%, and Dublin Coffman softball player Madison O'Malley (9.1%).
Also nominated were Centerburg softball player Abby Herren, Gahanna Lincoln softball player Kira Bailey, Hamilton Township softball player Logan Baker and Mount Gilead softball player Livie Brannon.
Bulger, the runner-up, went 6 for 8 in three games with two home runs, a double, three singles and eight RBIs.
O’Malley batted .562 (9 for 16) for the week with a .611 on-base percentage, .875 slugging percentage, two doubles and a home run. In the last two games, she was 6 for 9 with two doubles and a homer. She also has 21 putouts in 23 total chances for a .913 fielding percentage.
Herren set the state record for home runs in a single season, hitting her 24th in a 9-5 win at Loudonville. She tied the record the day before in a 12-1 win over Marion Pleasant.
Bailey went 9 for 9 in three games with 16 stolen bases, including six against Granville and five each against Lakewood and Watkins Memorial. She also had four RBIs and no strikeouts.
Baker went 6 for 8 with four doubles and five RBIs in wins over Whitehall and Beechcroft.
Brannon went 4 for 5 with a double, home run and six RBIs in a 16-10 win over East Knox.
The Athlete of the Week voting recognizes athletes across all sports.
Nominations are due Monday mornings for competitions that took place the previous week. The boys poll is live until 4 p.m. Fridays. The girls poll is live until 4 p.m. Saturdays.
Once athletes win during the regular season, they're not eligible to be back on the ballot until the postseason. Athletes who have not been a recipient of one of the weekly awards can be nominated more than once.
The San Antonio Spurs received a big boost ahead of Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals, as the team’s final injury report released Saturday night confirmed that no players will be unavailable. Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder were dealt another setback after guard Ajay Mitchell was ruled out for Game 4 because of a right calf strain.
The Thunder are now missing its second and third primary ball handlers, shot creators, and playmakers, along with two of its top four scorers. Even though the Thunder still lead the best-of-seven series 2-1, sports analyst Skip Bayless believes the advantage now shifts toward Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs.
“Now the Thunder will also be without Ajay tomorrow night, a 20-a-game scorer in place of JDub. Spurs should win Game 4 easily,” Bayless tweeted.
Mitchell started in the Thunder's 123-108 win over the Spurs in Game 3 on Friday night at Frost Bank Center while filling in for Jalen Williams at forward. He recorded two points and five rebounds before leaving during the third quarter and not returning, and the Thunder still managed to secure the road win.
Mitchell has now started seven of the Thunder's 11 playoff games. Meanwhile, Williams remains listed as questionable because of a sore left hamstring, the same injury that kept him sidelined in Game 3.
For the Spurs, both De'Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper are expected to suit up in Game 4. Fox played a key role in helping the Spurs jump out to a 15-0 start in Game 3 and finished with 15 points, seven rebounds, six assists, and one steal. Harper initially suffered his injury during the third quarter of Game 2 but still managed to log 17 minutes in Game 3.
Kelvin van der Linde has claimed his first DTM victory for BMW. The South African, who started the race from pole position, temporarily lost the lead to Thierry Vermeulen (Emil Frey Ferrari) after a mistake. However, he fought his way back to the front after the second pit stop - and subsequently drove to an unchallenged victory with a lead of more than six seconds.
Yet, the Schubert BMW driver was already considered a hot contender for the win before the race started. Not only had the Balance of Performance been adjusted once again in favor of the M4 GT3 Evo on Saturday evening, but Kelvin van der Linde also benefited in Sunday's second race from a fresh set of tyres, which he had saved due to his early retirement the previous day.
"I knew we had the fresh tyres for the end," said the jubilant race winner in an interview with ProSieben. "A mega team result with Marco, but my heart almost stopped after that slide out there. I had a brief moment before the final corner where I thought the race was over."
"But fortunately, the outlap was good," added van der Linde, who stormed back to the front after the second pit stop. "We got through well, many cars ahead of me were positioned correctly, and we were able to bring the victory home."
Ben Dörr claims maiden podium for Dörr-McLaren
Behind the victorious BMW driver, Ben Dörr delivered another DTM premiere. The McLaren junior drove sensationally to second place, celebrating not only his first DTM podium but also handing the Dörr squad its maiden podium finish. Marco Wittmann (Schubert BMW) completed the podium in third.
Maro Engel (Winward Mercedes) crossed the line in fourth position, reclaiming the championship lead. He was followed by Emil Frey Ferrari driver Thierry Vermeulen, who was shuffled down the order in the closing stages of the race. Luca Engstler and Marco Mapelli (both Abt Lamborghini) finished Sunday's race in sixth and seventh places.
Thomas Preining (Manthey Porsche, 8th) and Mirko Bortolotti (Grasser Lamborghini, 9th) battled for eighth place in the final stages, while Manthey Porsche driver Ricardo Feller completed the top 10. Previous championship leader Lucas Auer (Landgraf Mercedes) endured a difficult race and ultimately crossed the finish line in 13th position.
Bastian Buus retires following puncture
At the start, pole-sitter Kelvin van der Linde managed to hold onto the lead, followed by Abt Lamborghini driver Luca Engstler, who squeezed past Thierry Vermeulen. Just like the previous day, the local hero did not get a good launch and dropped back to third position within the opening meters.
Behind them, Ben Dörr slotted into position, followed by Thomas Preining and Mirko Bortolotti, the latter losing two positions on the opening lap. Further back in the field, there were more duels and contacts, though without any major incidents.
However, for the Land squad, the difficult weekend in the Netherlands continued following Saturday's disqualification: Bastian Buus had to pit after just three laps due to a puncture. The Dane even fell off the lead lap as a result and permanently parked his Porsche shortly thereafter.
Pit stop drama at Winward Mercedes
The order at the front remained unchanged until the opening of the first mandatory pit stop window. Engstler, Auer, and Cairoli were among the first drivers from the leading group to come in for a tyre change. The service was far from optimal for the championship leader, causing Auer to drop out of the top 10 early on.
Things did not go smoothly for the Winward squad either: first, Maro Engel lost nearly 15 seconds in the pits because a wheel gun apparently caused issues. Shortly afterwards, teammate Jules Gounon was also hit, losing valuable time as well because the problem could not be resolved in time.
"We don't know exactly what the problem is right now, whether it's the air pressure or the wheel gun," Winward team boss Christian Hohenadel said in an interview with ProSieben. "The problem, of course, is that in this sequence we are in now, we only had two laps and couldn't solve the problem."
However, the AMG team was not alone with a poor stop: the tyre changes were not quite perfect at Dörr either, meaning Dörr and Glock lost valuable seconds during their pit stops. Meanwhile, everything went smoothly for leader Kelvin van der Linde, allowing the BMW driver to initially defend his lead after the first stop.
Jules Gounon triggers sole Safety Car period
After the first pit stop window closed, the Safety Car had to be deployed briefly. Gounon had lost control of his Winward Mercedes during a duel with Arjun Maini (HRT Ford) and drove through a polystyrene sign at the side of the track, which subsequently had to be cleared from the track.
At the restart, Vermeulen snatched position from Engstler's Abt Lamborghini, while Lucas Auer was hit and spun around by Nicki Thiim (Comtoyou Aston Martin). The Dane had to complete the penalty lap three times as a punishment and dropped back as well.
"A truly great maneuver," an ironic Auer said in an interview with ProSieben, adding: "That was important for both of us, absolutely. Now we finished second to last and last. There's nothing to say, after that, it was a day to forget."
Shortly afterwards, contact occurred between Maximilian Paul (Grasser Lamborghini) and HRT Ford driver Finn Wiebelhaus, resulting in an early retirement for both drivers. Soon after, the lead changed hands: Kelvin van der Linde ran slightly off the racing line in the final corner, a mistake Vermeulen capitalized on immediately.
The South African was unable to counter, having to let the Ferrari driver pull away and even look in his mirrors over the following laps, where Abt Lamborghini driver Luca Engstler sensed his chance at second place. However, BMW driver van der Linde managed to defend his position.
Vermeulen loses victory chance during second stop
"Of course, we had to put the tyres on relatively early, and the Ferrari is simply superior at the moment," Schubert team boss Torsten Schubert explained to ProSieben, addressing why the BMW driver's pace suddenly dropped after the halfway mark of the race.
"He has opportunities to overtake, but we will give it a try in the third stint, maybe if the pit stop goes well, he can get back into the fight," Schubert said. Kelvin van der Linde pitted immediately as the second pit stop window opened, while leader Vermeulen followed one lap later.
While the tyre change at Schubert worked perfectly once again, Emil Frey made a fateful mistake with the leading Vermeulen: the Dutchman's Ferrari was released too early, even though the front-left wheel had not yet been fitted. As a result, the team lost crucial seconds in the battle for the lead.
Although the Dutchman returned to the track ahead of Kelvin van der Linde, the BMW driver's tyres were already in their operating window. Van der Linde therefore got back past and quickly pulled away. A difficult final phase began for Vermeulen: he lost his podium spot to Dörr and Wittmann before Maro Engel also overtook him.
With his fourth-place finish, the Winward Mercedes driver also reclaims the lead in the overall standings. Engel now has 67 points, pushing Auer (61 points) down to second place. Marco Wittmann (51 points) moves up to third place overall, followed by Thomas Preining (46 points) and Matteo Cairoli (43 points).
The third race weekend of the 2026 DTM season will take place from June 19 to 21 at the Lausitzring.
Real Madrid presidential candidate talks RMTV, privatisation, Florentino Perez and more – “Best players will come”
Real Madrid is heading toward its first presidential election since 2006, and the contest now has a formal challenger to the incumbent leadership.
Enrique Riquelme, a businessman from Alicante and executive chairman of Grupo Cox, submitted his candidacy to the club’s Electoral Board and sat down for an interview as a candidate with MARCA.
Riquelme has framed his bid as a democratic alternative after two decades without an electoral contest, and he has been openly critical of what he sees as a drift away from member-centric governance.
On why he is running
Riquelme described his decision as the culmination of a long-held ambition, rooted in a belief that the club needs a serious alternative after 20 years without elections.
Enrique Riquelme is going all out against Florentino Perez. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
“This comes from a dream. Many children seek to be Real Madrid football players, great athletes, and on my side, my dream has been to support Real Madrid for many years, from the offices.”
“We believe that, after 20 years, a healthy alternative, a serious alternative and a professional alternative is healthy so that the members can vote.”
On privatisation and the members
The candidate has repeatedly pointed to privatisation as the core issue motivating his campaign, arguing that the membership model is under threat.
“As things stand today, there have been no presidential elections at Real Madrid for 20 years, in a structure where governance is privatised, the member ceases to be the foundation and the club ceases to belong to them.”
“We want a Real Madrid that continues to belong to its members for more than 120 years.”
On the sporting project
Riquelme confirmed there is a sporting plan in place, though he stopped short of revealing names.
“I confirm that we have important names who will come. The best players that Real Madrid needs at this moment will come, along with the part of sporting professionalisation.”
“Real Madrid has to once again have the values that have been, fortunately, they have not been lost, but they have been worn down over a long time.”
On Real Madrid Televisión
The candidate was also asked about the club’s in-house channel, and he made clear he sees significant scope for change there too.
“Real Madrid Television has a budget of around 40 or 45 million euros, with an approximate share of 0.1; when they air Winsor movies, 0.2.”
“I believe Real Madrid Television can improve financially; it has the ability to draw on the youth academy, the entire Real Madrid club, and players to create certain content, to inform members, to inform Madridistas, and it should not become a sectarian outlet.
“Rather something that attracts Madridismo, and first informs current supporters, entertains current supporters, but is also a magnet to attract Madridistas around the world. And that must be profitable, not with a budget of €40 or €45 million.”
On the club’s institutional standing
Asked about Real Madrid’s strained relations with footballing institutions, he was unequivocal.
“It cannot be that we are at odds with everyone.”
“I do not need a strong Barcelona; I need a strong Real Madrid to compete against the rest. So we need them to respect us again, not fear us; it is very different.”
On his first move as president
“My first decision is for Real Madrid to professionalise, and from there, build.”
This is all hypothetical and based on Safi winning the election, but the Italian legend would represent a powerful figure in the campaign.
Maldini and Pioli ready for Fenerbahce
FLORENCE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 2: Head coach Stefano Pioli manager of ACF Fiorentina looks on during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and US Lecce at Artemio Franchi on November 2, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
It is suggested that Maldini would want to reunite with his old coach Pioli, who was on the Rossoneri bench from 2019 to 2024.
Since then, Pioli has worked for Al-Nassr and very briefly at Fiorentina, where he was sacked just 14 competitive games into the current season.
Among the reasons for Maldini’s dismissal from Milan in 2023 was his insistence that the club not fire Pioli, so the pair do have a strong history together.
Oct 13, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) smiles after a victory against the Cleveland Browns at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images | Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Let’s get to the Philadelphia Eagles news and links …
New Eagles OC Mannion starting out on optimistic note with Hurts – ESPN There were myriad reasons for the downturn, from injuries along the offensive front to coaching shortfalls. The offense grew stale. Some of the internal frustration was directed toward Hurts, whose strong preferences for how the operation should look played a part in the offense becoming calcified, sources said. One team source, though, said Hurts is “as open as he’s ever been to changes.” Early signs indicate the Hurts/Mannion collaboration is going well. “It starts really just connecting with him on a personal level, get to know him, get to know what his interests are, what makes him tick. Then once you start to get to know a guy on a personal level, I think the football connection becomes pretty easy,” Mannion said. “It’s been a great process with Jalen. He’s been a pleasure to work with, and really since I got the job, being able to connect with him on a personal level and then on football has been great.” Mannion is a former signal-caller himself. The Oregon State product was a third-round pick of the St. Louis Rams in 2015 and played nine years in the league. He started his coaching career in 2024 as an offensive assistant for the Green Bay Packers and was elevated to quarterbacks coach last season.
How will Jalen Hurts, Baker Mayfield and 11 other QBs fit with new coordinators, offenses? – The Athletic Sean Mannion comes from the Packers, who were one of the best gun-run teams in the league without involving Jordan Love as a runner. They did so with motion, creative backfield actions and varying mesh points on run concepts. A lot of the backfield actions looked inspired by the wing-T offense. The Packers ranked fourth in explosive rush rate from shotgun in the last two seasons. The Packers also lined up under center over 10 percent more than the Eagles. The Eagles tried to incorporate more under-center concepts into their offense last season, so Mannion will presumably be tasked with adding a coherent under-center package. If A.J. Brown is traded after June 1, first-round pick Makai Lemon will likely become the Eagles’ No. 2 receiver. Lemon specializes in winning in the middle of the field on short and intermediate routes. Since 2020, Hurts ranks 85th out of 88 eligible quarterbacks in percentage of throws between the numbers below 15 air yards. Love didn’t attack the middle of the field frequently in the Packers’ system, but he did more than Hurts. It’ll be interesting to see whether Hurts can truly evolve his game going into his seventh season and if Mannion can give the Eagles offense a much-needed infusion of creativity.
Eagles Deadzone Debate: Is Jalen Hurts the best QB in franchise history? – BGN Maybe, for you, there is little debate. The Eagles have had a lot of good-to-great quarterbacks over the last few decades. Ron Jaworski, Randall Cunningham, Donovan McNabb, Michael Vick, Nick Foles, Carson Wentz, Jalen Hurts and, of course, Bobby Hoying. Well, maybe not the last one. For this week’s Deadzone Debate, we’re going to dive into a simple question. Who is the best QB in Birds history? No doubt everyone has their favorites. Cunningham was a unique talent and the first of his kind, a quarterback who was just as dangerous a runner as a passer. Vick wasn’t here long, but put together one of the most exciting regular seasons in franchise history. Jaworski was an old school quarterback who was the team’s first Pro Bowl QB of the Super Bowl era. Foles won a Super Bowl with a run to the title that will live forever in NFL history. Wentz put together what was likely to be the greatest single season in 2017 before the injury torpedoed his career. But that leaves us with two real choices.
Eagles player review: iDL Ty Robinson edition – PhillyVoice If you look back at the top of this post at Robinson’s college highlights, you see an active bully with a great motor. He looked nothing like that guy as a rookie. Sometimes rookies are thinking too much, and not just playing. Maybe that’s what happened with Robinson his rookie season? Sometimes when guys go long stretches without playing in real games they’re out of rhythm. Maybe that played a part? Whatever the case, he looked tentative, unconfident, and overmatched. A couple weeks ago, we listed Robinson among six Eagles players who should have an elevated role in 2026. That was before I watched the tape. Oops. Robinson will not have a bigger role in 2026 unless he improves drastically. The ability is there. It will be on Robinson and D-line coach Clint Hurtt to unlock his traits.
In Roob’s Observations: What if it comes down to Jalyx Hunt or Nolan Smith? – NBCSP ARE YOU CHOOSING NOLAN SMITH OR JALYX HUNT? Nolan Smith is due to earn $3.82 million this year and has a one-year tender of $13.76 million in 2027 and then he’ll probably be a free agent. Jalyx Hunt is due $1.54 million this year and $1.79 million next year. And then he in theory will be a free agent. So what happens? With Jonathan Greenard on the books for $24.5 million per year through 2029, I’m not sure the Eagles can afford to keep both Smith and Hunt. It’s not Howie Roseman’s style to pay big money to three guys at any position. So if it comes down to Hunt or Smith, who does Howie prioritize? Smith was a 1st-round pick and you never want to let your 1st-round picks walk, but he has 10 ½ sacks in 48 regular-season games and as good as he was in the 2024 postseason if he doesn’t become a double-digit pass rusher this year I don’t know if it’s worth committing to him beyond 2027. Hunt had 6 ½ sacks last year in his first year as a full-time player and he has boundless upside. I’ll be surprised if he doesn’t out-play Smith again in 2026. I still think Smith has a lot of ability and maybe we’ll see it consistently this year. He’s fast, tough and physical, has good bend and can set the edge. The potential is there. We just haven’t seen it on a regular basis other than late in 2024. Hunt, a 3rd-round pick in 2024, is a relentless pass rusher who was a safety until he transferred from Cornell to Houston Christian in 2022. So he’s still new to this and if he continues the progress he made last year he’s going to be a 12-sack guy. Either of these guys could blow up this year. Maybe both will. That would give the Eagles a darn good group of edge rushers, assuming Greenard returns to his double-digit form. If it does eventually come down to Hunt or Smith, I think Hunt night be the guy.
The final countdown to an A.J. Brown trade begins – PFT Could another team swoop in with a better offer? If the Patriots and Eagles have unofficially worked out a deal, and if both sides honor a transaction that remains unofficial until it becomes official, it’s too late for that. Some are still suggesting the Rams could make a run at Brown. That ship sailed in March, when the Rams decided not to proceed based on the available medical information — and when the Rams allowed $24 million in 2026 compensation for receiver Davante Adams to become fully guaranteed. If the Rams had done the deal, they would have traded Adams. It’s not impossible for someone else to enter the A.J. fray, especially if the Chiefs are suddenly having misgivings about whether Rashee Rice can be trusted after his recent probation violation. For now, all signs are still pointing to Brown becoming a Patriot as soon as June 2.
Patriots Mailbag: What will the A.J. Brown trade package look like? – Pats Pulpit The most likely outcome at this stage appears to be a 2028 first-round pick heading from New England to Philadelphia for A.J. Brown. I’ve been against surrendering any first-rounder in this deal — and would still prefer a package centered around a 2027 second-round pick — but a 2028 first-rounder is more reasonable. It would give the Patriots another full offseason to continue building the roster while also allowing them to keep a valuable 2027 first-round pick in what is expected to be a strong draft class. There could also be late-round picks added on either side, but it’s hard to envision Kayshon Boutte being involved given Philadelphia’s depth additions at wide receiver this offseason. New England would likely look to find a separate trade partner for Boutte in order to recoup some late-round draft capital.
Eagles Want Rocco Underwood To Exceed Hefty Expectations – SI Clay believes Underwood is an NFL-level long snapper, though. “Rocco, a couple weeks in, he’s jelled really well with the veteran guys,” said Clay. “Athletic individual.” With the Gators, Underwood was able to work with Joe Houston, a former NFL special teams coach. “It’s nice [that] he played under Joe Houston, who had coached in the NFL. [Underwood] knows the rigors of the NFL probably from talking to Joe, but he’s doing a really good job,” Clay noted. The most difficult step for Underwood could be when the pads come on because he’s undersized at 6-foot-3 and 231 pounds. That said, the NFL has lightened the load on long snappers with rule changes in recent seasons, taking head-on rushes out of the game.
Cowboys add two new minds to analytics department – Blogging The Boys Essentially, this position amounts to being an extra body in the offseason to help manage the increased workload of the department. Other organizations, like the Eagles and Ravens, frequently use similar roles to process everything they need to do in the offseason while also deepening their bench of full-time staffers going forward. As for the two that are joining the Cowboys, Nick Fullerton comes to the Cowboys after spending the 2025 season working as a research analyst with the NFL’s Next Gen Stats department. Prior to that, Fullerton held multiple roles with the SMU football team while completing his master’s in data science and applied statistics.
Washington Commanders schedule doesn’t favor a winning season – Hogs Haven The Commanders are favored for the first time in Week 4, when they are the “home” team against the Indianapolis Colts in London, England. There’s no early bye after the international game, instead they play their third division game in the first five weeks, with Washington favored over New York when they host the Giants. Washington isn’t favored in another game until Week 12, and if they can’t pull off some upsets before that, it will be a long season that brings even more changes next year. That 5-game stretch has the Commanders as underdogs at home against the 49ers (MNF) and Eagles (SNF); on the road against the Giants (TNF), and back at home vs the Rams and Bengals (MNF). That’s a rough stretch of prime-time games, but they have a Week 7 bye for an early break in the first half of the season.
Philosoraptor’s corner: The Giants’ unlikely 2026 offseason – Big Blue View When I put put my flag on a 10-7 record flag for the Giants, I wasn’t viewing them as a team that only won four games off of bottom feeders. I was projecting a team that stunned two playoff teams and built double-digit leads over five other teams as underdogs. That was a team with an unsettled quarterback position and missed two of its best offensive weapons for much of the year. And even with all their problems, they were still able to compete with playoff caliber teams. I’m not going to say that the 2025 Giants were good, but their 4-13 record was still “get hit by a meteorite” levels of unlikely. That was the team I was projecting to rebound to a 10-7 record.
NFL Draft consensus boards: How they inform team strategy, and why they matter – SB Nation The wisdom of crowds can be a useful concept when deciding which course to take at any given time, especially in higher-stress moments, when the effects of decisions can be specifically job-defining or job-eliminating based on the results. Such packaged wisdom can also serve as a useful balm when one is trying to save one’s job or reputation. If you’re close to the consensus every time, and things still don’t work out? Well, hey — at least you weren’t an outlier. A primary disadvantage to such aggregate thinking is that you risk being swept away by that same crowd. If you’re never an outlier — if you never dare to take a risk — why are you there in the first place? Why can’t you be replaced by a bot?
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When Colin Cowherd said the Spurs were the better team after Mitchell Johnson’s squad lost Game 2, it hit like a truck in OKC. Three games into the series now, the Thunder are up 2-1 and headed back to San Antonio for Sunday's Game 4. At this point, Cowherd's take on calling the Spurs the better team seems to have lost its merit.
Right after the Spurs dropped Game 2, Cowherd didn't sugarcoat his feelings, saying, "We have to be totally honest about this, and nobody wants to hear this in OKC. San Antonio has been the better team: better field goal percentage and better three-point percentage. They have the best player in the series and points in the paint. Oklahoma City is looking up."
The argument wasn't about the scoreboard. It was about which team was playing better basketball. Through two games, the numbers backed him up. But then in Game 3, OKC's bench just shut down the narrative by delivering a dominant 123-108 victory.
What changed in Spurs vs. Thunder Game 3?
The Spurs started Game 3 solid at home, going on a 15-0 run and leading 19-4 right away. For a second, it looked like Cowherd was actually right about San Antonio being the better team. But OKC’s bench had a better plan to flip the script completely.
Alex Caruso, Jaylin Williams, Jared McCain, and Cason Wallace turned a potential blowout into a 123-108 Thunder win. The second unit dropped 76 points, breaking the franchise playoff record they literally just set the game before. McCain had 24, Williams put up 18, and Caruso added 15.
Four of the Thunder's starters actually finished with a negative plus-minus, but three bench guys were over +20. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander didn't even score in the first quarter, which has only happened twice in four years.
But he still ended up with 26 points, 12 assists, and only two turnovers. Instead of forcing bad shots or hunting for fouls when the Spurs threw double-teams at him, he just made the right pass.
Right before the game, Cowherd called SGA the "Mayor of Flop City," complaining that he falls to the floor way too much compared to guys like James Harden, Jalen Brunson, or Victor Wembanyama. He even said SGA wasn't fun to watch.
"We have to be totally honest about this. Nobody wants to hear this in OKC: San Antonio's been the better team. Oklahoma City is looking up."
But as long as the Thunder keep winning, all these complaints just feel like unnecessary noise. Winning cures everything. Still, heading into Game 4, injuries are definitely clouding both sidelines. Jalen Williams missed Game 3 entirely and is still on the Thunder's injury report.
Over on the San Antonio side, the backcourt is looking a bit fragile. Stephon Castle’s ball security is becoming a live issue after some sloppy play in the first few games, and the Spurs need to clean up their mistakes if they want a chance to tie this thing up.
There’s a lot of speculation that former Tennessee Vols baseball coach Tony Vitello, who is in his first season as the manager of the San Francisco Giants, will eventually return to the college game.
Thanks to the San Francisco Giants’ tough start to the season, there’s already speculation that Tony Vitello will soon return to the college game.
Vitello, who is in his first season as the Giants’ manager after spending eight seasons as the head coach of the Tennessee Vols, has had a rocky start to his MLB career.
The Giants are 10 games under .500 on May 24 and they’ve scored the fewest runs in the league.
With plenty of outside noise swirling, Giants President of Baseball Operations Buster Posey, the man who hired Vitello, gave the former Tennessee coach a vote of confidence this week.
"Tony's been solid," said Posey during an appearance on KNBR. "You talk about frustration or anybody that's wearing this hard, I don't think there's anybody out there that's wearing it harder than him… Nobody's happy about where we started. And I can promise you Tony's wearing it harder than anybody is."
If you’ve been following pro sports any length of time, you know the “vote of confidence” doesn’t mean much. In fact, it’s usually the first sign that it’s the beginning of the end for a coach.
If things don’t work out for Tony Vitello in MLB, then a return to college seems likely
If things don’t work out for Vitello in San Francisco, then it seems likely he’d return to the college game. It’s hard to imagine Vitello grinding it out in the big leagues as a third base coach if he’s eventually fired by the Giants — especially when numerous high profile programs would go out of their way to hire him.
Another SEC program, however, has put itself in a very strong position to hire Vitello if he becomes available in the next year or so.
And it’s a program Vitello knows very, very well: The Missouri Tigers.
Vitello, a St. Louis native, played college baseball at Missouri before joining the Tigers’ coaching staff from 2003 to 2010. It goes without saying that Missouri is a massive part of Vitello’s baseball identity.
Mizzou hasn’t fared very well the last three seasons under head coach Kerrick Jackson (63-102 over the last three years, including a 24-31 record in 2026).
But despite the lack of success, Missouri is planning to bring Jackson back for a fourth season.
SOURCES: @MizzouBaseball head coach Kerrick Jackson is expected to return for his fourth season as head coach of the program, I'm told. Jackson's Tigers had a tough 2025 campaign, but showed clear improvement in 2026. I am expecting Missouri to very much ramp up internal support… pic.twitter.com/oZs9VB5Dl3
It’s possible the program truly believes in Jackson. It’s also possible that Missouri realizes that if they fire Jackson right now, they have no shot at landing Vitello.
There’s just little to no chance that Vitello would leave the Giants in the middle of his first season because the Missouri job comes open. You never say never, but it’s highly unlikely that Vitello would abandon ship in the middle of the season. That’s just not who he is as a person.
Even through rough games, the support from the crowd at Oracle Park hasn't wavered. Tony Vitello appreciates Giants fans showing up.
"It's kind of been astounding how positive everyone's been and how much I think they are sticking with the team." pic.twitter.com/fTb9NQmbSx
Bringing Jackson back for another season, however, puts the Tigers in a position where they could choose to move on from the embattled coach at any time if Vitello becomes available (which, realistically, could be as soon as next spring/summer, depending on how things with the Giants go).
Let’s say the Giants miss the playoffs and finish the 2026 season with a worse record than last season. And then let’s say the Giants get off to another dreadful start in 2027 (assuming there’s no MLB lockout, but that’s a story for another day). Could San Francisco push the eject button and move on early next season if it’s not working out with Vitello? It sure seems possible.
At that point, Mizzou could easily move on from Jackson and make their pitch to Vitello.
There’s no guarantee, though, that Vitello would take the job — I don’t think it’s automatic that he’d return to his alma mater. Remember, he was passed over for the Mizzou job in 2017 (and Vitello was not a fan of the coach who got the job over him).
But while there are no guarantees on what Vitello would do if offered the Missouri job, I do think it’s a very real scenario that could be in play in 2027 depending on how things work out in San Francisco.
For now, I truly believe Vitello is focused on the job he has. I think he is still determined to be a successful MLB manager. And maybe he will be. None of us have any clue how his run with the Giants will play out.
But there’s no denying that Missouri has put itself in a strong position to bring Vitello home if the opportunity arises.
The situation between George Pickens and the Dallas Cowboys has become one of the biggest topics for discussion of the 2026 NFL offseason. Tension continues to build regarding his long-term future with the franchise, as he is currently playing under the franchise tag.
However, NFL insider Jeremy Fowler shared some encouraging updates on Saturday.
"He signed the franchise tag, $27 million, hasn't really been a fixture in the building, kind of stayed away a little bit but I'm told he has worked with Dak Prescott this offseason offsite," Fowler said via Adam Wells of Bleacher Report while appearing on ESPN's Sportscenter.
"Loves being a Cowboy, loves a long-term deal more. They weren't able to get one, but they're hopeful down the road they can work it out. But I don't expect a holdout at this point, should be locked in for the Cowboys in 2026.”
The franchise tag guarantees Pickens a salary of $27.3 million for the upcoming season. Since he still lacks long-term financial security, he has chosen to skip voluntary offseason workouts. That situation has fueled trade speculation, with prediction markets even connecting him to several other teams.
NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero also spoke on the situation during an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show. He said that while he currently expects Pickens to stay with the Cowboys for the 2026 season, he could not completely rule out the possibility of circumstances changing. He explained that factors such as injuries, roster needs, and unexpected developments can quickly alter situations in the NFL, but at this moment he still believes Pickens will remain with the Cowboys.
According to multiple NFL insiders, Jerry and Stephen Jones reportedly want to see a larger body of work before committing record-level money to Pickens in a long-term extension. Part of that hesitation reportedly comes from past concerns surrounding his maturity and consistency dating back to his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, Pickens delivered an outstanding 2025 season, emerging as the centerpiece of the Cowboys’ offense after recording 93 receptions, 1,429 receiving yards, and 9 touchdowns.
Josh Allen has, over the last few years, become the blueprint for how quarterbacks should be developed in the NFL. He was not the top quarterback in the NFL when he started. He got better every season, and in Year 3, he hit his stride, similar to other winning quarterbacks. Josh Allen still is the ceiling for other athletic developmental quarterbacks. The Bears are hoping for that same Year 3 jump for Caleb Williams.
Caleb Williams was amazing at moments last season in his second year in the NFL. Setting for him to have a superstar, top 10 quarterback in the NFL level season 3. In his 3rd season, he gets a primetime matchup vs Josh Allen. That will be a great litmus test to see exactly where Caleb Williams is. Everyone knows Josh Allen is going to bring it. The key factor will be whether or not Caleb Williams will match Josh Allen.
Week 15 on Saturday night will be a great matchup of two talented quarterbacks. It will also be even more entertaining seeing D.J. Moore for the first time on his new squad and catching passes for Josh Allen. It will be up to the Bears' young weapons to make Ryan Poles look right in his decision to move off of D.J. Moore.
These are the types of games where you see whether or not you have one of the elite quarterbacks. So far, it is more evident than not that Caleb Williams steps up to the plate for games like this. It still will be really fun to watch him prove himself as a top quarterback in the league vs the best of the best. This game will be the potential highlight of his year 3 ends up being.
The Dallas Stars' offseason depth chart is still not where it needs to be. Through two stories breaking down six free agent forwards that could help Jim Nill address the team's glaring depth issues, the reality remains that the problem runs deep enough to warrant continued attention.
Being exposed by a Minnesota Wild team built from the bottom up was a wake-up call for an organization that has leaned on its star power for far too long, and the work to fix it is not yet done.
Cap constraints continue to shape what is and isn't possible for Nill this summer, but creativity and calculated decision-making can go a long way in a market that still has legitimate value waiting to be unlocked.
The right additions to the bottom half of Dallas' forward group could quietly become the difference between another early playoff exit and a genuine championship run. Here are four more free agents Nill should be considering as he looks to finally build the kind of well-rounded, battle-tested roster the Stars need to go the distance.
Jason Dickinson, C, Edmonton Oilers
Finding reliable center depth is never easy, which is precisely why the Edmonton Oilers gave up a first-round pick and Andrew Mangiapane to acquire Jason Dickinson. The 30-year-old Georgetown native is not a player who fills up the scoresheet, but his value lies in something far harder to find elite two-way reliability night in and night out.
Over the last three seasons, Dickinson posted a minus-14 rating despite skating for Chicago Blackhawks teams that went 77-138-31 during that span, the second-worst record and fewest wins in the league over that stretch. The fact that he held his own on one of the league's worst rosters speaks volumes about how dependable he is on both sides of the puck.
Dickinson is also a proven penalty kill contributor, which is an area where the Stars could use a meaningful upgrade. Adding a player of his caliber in that role alone could make a noticeable difference for a Dallas team looking to sharpen up in all situations.
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Evander Kane, LW/RW, Vancouver Canucks
At 34 years old, Kane is still delivering dependable depth scoring, posting 31 points in 71 games this past season while averaging roughly 16 minutes a night, a workload that would translate comfortably into a middle-to-bottom-six role with the Stars.
The offensive production is useful, but it is what Kane brings beyond the scoresheet that makes him such an appealing addition for a team with championship aspirations.
Kane carries the kind of grit and playoff pedigree that Dallas has been searching for in its depth group. His 13 goals and four assists for 17 points in 15 playoff games with Edmonton during their 2021-22 run remains one of the more memorable postseason performances in recent memory, and as recently as the 2024-25 playoffs he chipped in 12 points in 21 games.
If Kane can remain healthy over a full season, he has the potential to be the power forward difference-maker the Stars would love to have when the postseason arrives, and could help push this group past the hurdles that have historically held them back from going all the way.
Scott Laughton, C/LW, Los Angeles Kings
Elite two-way play, penalty killing reliability and high hockey IQ are the terms that consistently define Scott Laughton's game, and they are terms the Stars should find very appealing.
The veteran center brings a rare blend of skills that allow him to stabilize a depth line on a legitimate Stanley Cup contender, drawing comparisons to the role Nicholas Roy played for this year's Colorado Avalanche championship team, while also contributing 20 to 40 points and adding a physical edge when the situation calls for it.
Laughton has been far from short of suitors in recent years, with the Toronto Maple Leafs sending a first-round pick to Philadelphia to acquire him before he was later moved to the Los Angeles Kings for a second-round pick. Those kinds of returns are not generated by an ordinary depth player, and the market for his services this summer figures to be quietly substantial.
Laughton is the kind of player that does not always dominate a box score but consistently makes every team he plays for better, and the Stars should not hesitate to make a strong push for one of the most underrated free agents available this offseason.
Michael McCarron, RW/C, Minnesota Wild
There is perhaps no sweeter way to address a weakness than by poaching the player who helped expose it. McCarron was one of the standout depth performers during Minnesota's playoff run, delivering a pair of timely goals that helped the Wild edge out the Stars in the first round, and seeing him switch sides this offseason would be a striking but savvy move by Nill.
It raised eyebrows when the Wild parted with a second-round pick to acquire McCarron at the deadline, but those who look beyond the surface numbers quickly understand why Minnesota made the move.
MICHAEL MCCARRON SNIPES IT FOR THE WILD'S 3RD STRAIGHT GOAL 🚀
At the time of the deal, McCarron led the Nashville Predators in hits, ranked third in blocked shots and topped their forwards in short-handed ice time at 2:29 per game, a profile that speaks to just how valuable he is in the right system.
He continues to rank among the Wild's leaders in hits, blocked shots and takeaways, and bringing that brand of elite defensive forward play to Dallas would immediately revitalize a bottom-six that has been lacking exactly that kind of impact for far too long.
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SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - MAY 23: Ty France #25 of the San Diego Padres poses for a photograph before the game against the Athletics at Petco Park on May 23, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images) | Getty Images
San Diego Padres first baseman Ty France put on a defensive clinic which helped pitcher Lucas Giolito and the Padres squeak past the Athletics with a 2-0 win at Petco Park on Saturday. The win also gave San Diego another series win with a chance for a sweep with Michael King taking the mound in Game 3.
San Diego broke the scoreless tie in the bottom of the third inning after Fernando Tatis Jr. was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded to give the Padres a 1-0 lead. San Diego was unable to find a hit to break the game open before the inning ended.
France erased an Athletics runner with an unassisted double play in the top of the third inning. Carlos Cortes walked to open the inning, but Nick Kurtz hit a groundball at France. The first baseman fielded the ball, tagged Cortes who was trying to go back to first base, and the stepped on the bag to complete the double play. San Diego added a run to its total in the bottom half of the inning when France hit a ground ball through the middle of the infield with runners at second and third that allowed Nick Castellanos to score from third base.
France struck again in the top of the fourth inning when the Athletics loaded the bases with one out. Jeff McNeil hit a groundball to France who fielded the grounder and threw to second for the front end of the double play and then retreated back to the base to receive the return throw to end the inning and the scoring threat.
Darell Hernaiz opened the top of the fifth inning for the Athletics with a leadoff single. Cortes then hit a line drive down the first base line and France snared the ball over the bag for an out and stepped on first base to double off Hernaiz who never had a chance to get back to the bag.
After those highlight-type plays, it was only fitting that France fielded a ground ball off the bat of McNeil and flipped the ball to closer Mason Miller who was covering the base for the final out of the game. The play secured the two-run win for the Padres and gave Miller his 16th save of the season.
San Diego will try to sweep the Athletics at Petco Park today at 1:10 p.m.
Padres News:
Rodolfo Duran has been making a name for himself at the MLB level. After a long wait to get to the big-leagues, Duran is making his case to remain with the club when Luis Campusano returns from injury.
Fernando Tatis Jr. is looking at a debt of $3.74 million dollars that is owed to Big League Advance Fund, but he plans to appeal a court decision that says he must pay it.
Former Padres pitcher Stephen Kolek pitched a complete game and kept the Seattle Mariners off the scoreboard and helped the Kansas City Royals win, 5-0.
Benches cleared between the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins after a collision at home plate.
Chicago White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas lost a flyball in the sun that dropped in foul territory. Harrison Bader took advantage of his second life at the plate and hit a grand slam to help the San Francisco Giants win the game.
26 year old Premier League regular available for over €40m and Chelsea are certain to interested
Maxence Lacroix will be leaving Crystal Palace this summer and we’re sure Chelsea are going to be sniffing around him.
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Well connected French journalist Fabrice Hawkins of RMC Sport has today claimed that Maxence Lacroix will play his final game for Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park this afternoon.
A transfer is on the way – there are “no talks” to extend his contract in South London. Others have reported that Palace will listen to offers above €40m, although they could likely ask for a lot more.
His contract is until 2029, but clearly he’s informed them he won’t extend and they’re hoping to sell him while his value is high.
Everything points to Chelsea interest in 26 year old defender
Lacroix has been linked with Chelsea before, and we expect those rumours to come back with force now. He’s 26, Premier League experienced, plays in a position where we want a reliable starter, and is available for a reasonable price.
We may not end up with him, but we’re sure we’ll be in for him at some stage. It’s all lined up too perfectly. Our priority now must be selling several of our cluster of central defenders who have shown they’re not good enough to free up funds for a move like this.
Victor Wembanyama and his San Antonio Spurs will now travel to Oklahoma City for Game 4, where winning is essentially mandatory if they want to avoid falling into a 3-1 deficit. Meanwhile, discussion about the Oklahoma City Thunder players being physical remains a hot topic of discussion heading to Game 4.
However, Hall of Famer Charles Barkley has had enough with this narrative, as he called it out with a joke.
“I think we need to all pray for Wimby because he can't play too many minutes,” Barkley said. “They're going to kill him out there. I am damn sure joking because these people, man, they're pissing me off. I'm watching the whole games.
They ain't playing dirty. These are some of the softest files I've ever seen in my life.
“You got these clowns on TV talking about who they're gonna hurt poor Wimby. I was like, ‘Honey, are you kidding?’ It drives me crazy watching these shows.”
The Thunder are playing Wembanyama with the maximum allowable physical intensity because it's the only way to make him work for his points. It is aggressive, playoff-level basketball, but as Wembanyama himself knows it as he spoke about the physical style the Thunder have brought throughout the series.
"There's no place for frustration,” Wembanyama said following the Game 3 loss. “It's annoying, of course, but we gotta use that as energy... Being physical, the difference maybe with this team is their experience, they're maybe being more smart about it. But we just got to find the answers. "
As for Wembanyama's Game 3 performance, he finished with a team-high 26 points while shooting an efficient 8-for-15 from the field. However, questions remained about his overall impact throughout the game while he remains confident that the group can find answers in Game 4 from their errors in last games.
The Philadelphia Phillies have been one of the more notable teams when it comes to producing pitching talent over the last few years. This season has seen the rise of Andrew Painter, who was selected by the Phillies with the 13th pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, as he finally broke into the major league level, striking out eight batters in his debut in late March.
Some could even point to Mick Abel, who made his major league debut with Philadelphia last season, going blow-for-blow with eventual Cy Young award winner Paul Skenes in that outing, fanning nine batters to get the win. While Abel was later dealt to the Twins in exchange for Jhoan Duran, he was still a product of the Phillies’ farm system.
While there lies another top pitching prospect in Gage Wood, who was recently promoted to the Double-A Reading Fightin Phils, it appears that Philadelphia just took a big swing on another pitching prospect, Chan-Min Park.
Who is Chan-Min Park?
Signed & sealed✍️ Welcome to the Phillies family, Chan-Min Park!
We have signed Korean RHP prospect Chan-Min Park as part of our 2026 International Signing Class. pic.twitter.com/MZAGqfO0Ua
— Phillies Player Development (@PhilsPlayerDev) May 23, 2026
On Saturday, the Phillies announced the signing of Park as part of their international signing class. According to Over Slot’s Joe Doyle, the Korean ace has four pitches in his arsenal, with his top speed in April reaching up to 94 miles per hour. While these numbers aren’t groundbreaking by any means, given that Park is only 17 years old, there is more than enough time to grow and improve his presence on the mound.
In a report by The Athletic’s Charlotte Varnes, Philadelphia’s front office isn’t certain on where their recently announced prospect will begin his time in the farm system, with their academy in the Dominican Republic or Clearwater both being choices.
“The organization is unsure where Park will start. The Phillies’ Dominican Republic academy or their Clearwater, Fla., complex are options,” Varnes writes.
USC football faces Ohio State this year, the first time the two programs will meet on the gridiron as Big Ten football opponents. USC brings back its quarterback and most of its offensive line. Meanwhile, as ESPN notes, Ohio State has lost key members of its 2025 defense, among other things:
"The Buckeyes will have a different offensive coordinator for the fourth consecutive season as Arthur Smith, the former Atlanta Falcons coach and NFL coordinator, will direct the unit this fall. Smith, who called plays for both the Tennessee Titans and Pittsburgh Steelers in between his Falcons stint, gives OSU coach Ryan Day the freedom to oversee the whole program. Smith has spent almost his entire career at the NFL level. The Buckeyes also hired new special teams coordinator Robby Discher from Illinois and Cortez Hankton, a longtime SEC assistant, to coach Jeremiah Smith and the wide receivers.
"Ohio State is replacing the stars of its defense for the second straight year as Downs, Reese and Kayden McDonald all skipped their final seasons of college eligibility, and the team also lost Sonny Styles. The team also lost offensive coordinator Brian Hartline, who has overseen a historic stretch of elite wide receivers and been among the nation's top recruiters, to a head coaching role at South Florida. Ohio State had several notable transfer departures on offense, from guard Tegra Tshabola (Kentucky) and running back James Peoples (Penn State) to emerging wide receivers Mylan Graham and Quincy Porter, both ESPN top-65 national recruits, joining Notre Dame. Tight end Max Klare declared early for the draft, and defensive backs Faheem Delane and Aaron Scott also transferred out."
With Ohio State changing a lot on defense, it's up to USC's offense to max out and exploit favorable matchups. Lincoln Riley beat Ohio State when he was at Oklahoma. It's time for him to deliver at USC.
Head to NBCSN and Peacock this Sunday for an exciting slate of MLB action. Coverage begins at 12:00 PM ET with an MLBSunday Leadoff showdown featuring the Pittsburgh Pirates vs Toronto Blue Jays. Then, at 7:00 PM ET, it’s the Texas Rangers vs Los Angeles Angels on Sunday Night Baseball. See below for additional information on how to stream both games.
The Blue Jays enter Sunday’s matchup sizzling, riding a season-high four-game winning streak following Saturday’s 5-2 victory against Pirates’ ace Paul Skenes. They have rode this wave on the strength of their pitching and defense, allowing just five runs in total during this four-game stretch.
Going for the sweep on Sunday, the Jays will give the ball to their ace, Dylan Cease. The 30-year-old right-hander has been exceptional in his first season in a Jays’ uniform, registering a 2.98 ERA and leading the American League with 84 strikeouts in 57 1/3 innings through his first 10 starts.
The Pirates are heading in the opposite direction. They enter play on Sunday as losers of two straight and six of their last eight. That brings them back to the .500 mark for the season at 26-26. That unfortunately puts them in the cellar in the extremely competitive National League Central division and has them three games back of a potential Wild Card berth.
The Pirates will turn to right-hander Mitch Keller to stop the slide on Sunday. The 30-year-old hurler is off to the best start of his career through his first 10 starts, sitting at 4-2 with a 3.86 ERA across 58 1/3 innings.
Former All-Star reliever Matt Capps and World Series champion outfielder Dexter Fowler will join play-by-play voice Dave Flemming and reporter John Fanta on this week’s edition of MLB Sunday Leadoff.
How to watch Pittsburgh Pirates vs Toronto Blue Jays:
MLB Sunday Leadoff is a weekly Major League Baseball showcase featuring live Sunday daytime games. It highlights marquee matchups throughout the regular season and streams primarily on Peacock, with some games also airing across NBC Sports and NBC.
MLB Sunday Night Baseball is a weekly primetime Major League Baseball showcase, featuring marquee matchups each Sunday night during the regular season. The games air on NBC and Peacock and anchor NBC Sports’ Sunday night programming lineup.
On Sunday, July 5, all 15 MLB games will be presented nationally across Peacock and NBC as part of a special all-day “Star-Spangled Sunday” showcase.
NBC Sports will also stream one out-of-market game each day of the 2026 MLB season nationally on Peacock. Telemundo Deportes will present all NBCUniversal-produced MLB games in Spanish, with Universo televising all games broadcast on NBC.
How to sign up for Peacock:
Sign up here to watch all of our LIVE sports, sports shows, documentaries, classic matches, and more. You’ll also get tons of hit movies and TV shows, Originals, news, 24/7 channels, and current NBC and Bravo hits for whatever suits your mood.
Why are some MLB games unavailable to stream on Peacock?
Due to territorial blackout restrictions, select regular season, special event, and Postseason games may be unavailable on Peacock. Television territory blackout restrictions apply regardless of whether a Club is home or away and regardless of whether a game is televised in that Club’s home television territory. For more information visit, Peacock’s Help Center.
Ukrainian tennis player Marta Kostyuk celebrates defeating Russia's Oksana Selekhmeteva during their women's singles first round match of the French Open tennis tournament (Roland Garros 2026), at Roland Garros Stadium. Matthieu Mirville/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk was overcome with emotions after winning "one of the most difficult matches of my career" at the French Open, after a Russian missle exploded near her parents' home earlier Sunday.
Kostyuk won 6-2 6-3 over Russian-born Oksana Selekhmeteva, who now competes for Spain, to reach the second round at Roland Garros.
There was no handshake like at all matches between Ukrainian and Russian players since the start of the Russian invasion in 2022.
Kostyuk then shared her emotions in the on-court interview after Russia had launched large-scale missile and drone attacks overnight in which several people were killed and dozens injured.
"This morning, 100 metres away from my parents' house, a missile destroyed the building," she said.
"I'm incredibly proud of myself. I think it was one of the most difficult matches of my career."
"It was a very difficult morning for me, I didn't know how this match would turn out for me or how I would handle it. I have been crying this morning. I don't want to talk about myself today.
"Of course I am happy to be in the second round. But all my heart and all my thoughts go to the people of Ukraine today."
Russian tennis player Oksana Selekhmeteva in action against Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk during their women's singles first round match of the French Open tennis tournament (Roland Garros 2026), at Roland Garros Stadium. Marcin Cholewinski/ZUMA Press Wire/dpaUkrainian tennis player Marta Kostyuk in action against Russia's Oksana Selekhmeteva during their women's singles first round match of the French Open tennis tournament (Roland Garros 2026), at Roland Garros Stadium. Matthieu Mirville/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
The San Antonio Spurs opened the Western Conference Finals with a 122-115 double-overtime road win over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1. However, after dropping Game 2 and suffering the 123-108 loss at home in Game 3, the Spurs now trail 2-1 in the series.
Meanwhile, in the Eastern Conference Finals, the Cleveland Cavaliers are facing a 3-0 deficit against the New York Knicks after a hard-fought 121-108 home loss in Game 3. The Knicks have looked dominant throughout the series and now sits just one win away from reaching its first NBA Finals since 1999.
Following the Knicks’ Game 3 win over the Cavaliers, two-time NBA All-Star Isiah Thomas shared his thoughts on social media.
“Losing game 1 the way Cleveland did messed up the whole series now they gon get swept. Finals in NYC is going to be crazy!!! Spurs/Knicks finals rematch from 1999,” Thomas tweeted.
The 1999 NBA Finals represented both the close of one chapter and the rise of another. That series featured the heavily favored Spurs against the underdog Knicks, who became the first No. 8 seed in NBA history to advance to the Finals.
The Spurs went on to win the championship in five games, which was the franchise’s first NBA title. It ultimately laid the groundwork for a dynasty that eventually produced five championships across two decades.
The Spurs are now led by Victor Wembanyama and a talented young core, as they are aiming to build another championship era. Game 4 tips off at 7 p.m., and the Spurs will need a win to even the series.
The Brazilian goalkeeper, who departed the Club last summer after eight memorable years at the Club, has been presented with the bespoke mosaic by Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, located alongside the men’s first team goalkeeper pitch at City Football Academy.
The artwork captures Ederson’s heroic performance in the UEFA Champions League Final against Inter Milan, a defining moment in which helped City secured the trophy for the first time, serving as a lasting tribute to his impact and legacy.
A player that redefined the role of the modern goalkeeper, Ederson made 372 appearances during his time at the Club, winning 18 major trophies. He becomes the second goalkeeper to be recognised with a dedicated training pitch after Joe Hart.
He joins former players including Vincent Kompany, Sergio Aguero, David Silva as well as Bernardo Silva and John Stones on a list of those recognised with a mosaic, created by local Manchester sculptor and City supporter Mark Kennedy.
Manchester City Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said: “For eight seasons Ederson delivered against the incredible demands of Pep’s reimagining of what a modern goalkeeper should be. In doing so, he helped to set the standard for the future of the game. His imprint is therefore not only on the history of our club but also on the history of goalkeeping.
“His uncompromising style and commitment underpinned so much of our success during his time with us. The achievements he contributed to will be part of this Club forever, as will he.”
Ederson added: “As soon as I saw the mosaic, I felt immense pride. You never expect when you join a club to have the level of success I enjoyed at City. You just work hard everyday and hope the trophies will follow.
“I was so lucky to have amazing teammates and work with the best staff in the world. It meant we could win consistently and make the Manchester City fans happy along the way.
“I want to thank the club for this gesture. To be honoured like this is a dream for me.”
Exit route blocked for Barcelona goalkeeper facing an uncertain future at the club
The coming summer will be an uncertain one for Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
Currently on loan at Girona, ter Stegen has played very little football owing to the injury that ruled him out not only for the season but also from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ter Stegen is slated to return to Barcelona at the end of the season and what happens after that is anyone’s guess.
Exit route blocked for ter Stegen
What does the future hold for Ter Stegen? (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
According to Mundo Deportivo, one potential destination has already been closed off. Girona’s relegation following their 1-1 draw with Elche means a return to Montilivi next season is no longer a viable option for the German goalkeeper.
Ter Stegen was present at the stadium on Saturday to support his Girona teammates as relegation was confirmed, going down to the pitch afterwards to console the squad.
It was a gracious gesture from a goalkeeper who managed just two appearances for the club before suffering a significant hamstring injury that effectively ended his season.
No clear path at Barcelona either
Returning to Barcelona presents its own complications. The club now have Joan Garcia established as the undisputed number one.
Barcelona are more than ready to offload ter Stegen. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Wojciech Szczesny remains as backup and young options in Diego Kochen and Aron Yaakobishvili are also in the picture.
With Inaki Pena’s loan at Elche also ending, the goalkeeper department is already well stocked.
Ter Stegen holds a contract until 2028 and carries one of the highest salaries in the squad, a factor that makes finding a solution all the more pressing for Barcelona.
The club will not stand in the way of his departure, but his recent injury record is unlikely to attract a flood of attractive offers.
With the World Cup no longer a possibility, the German will at least have additional time to complete his rehabilitation before the new season begins.
The 2025-26 season was a successful one for Philadelphia Flyers prospect Alex Bump. The 22-year-old forward played in his first 17 career NHL games this campaign, where he had five goals and nine points. He also played in six playoff games for Philadelphia, where he scored two goals.
Overall, Bump showed plenty of promise during his first chance on the Flyers' roster. He also played well while in the AHL with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms this season, posting 11 goals and 26 points in 36 games. With this, there is a lot to like about the 2022 fifth-round pick's play so far.
However, now that Bump has gotten a taste of NHL action and has finished his first full professional season split between the NHL and AHL, it is clear that he is a prime breakout candidate to watch next season for the Flyers.
The potential for Bump to emerge as a key part of the Flyers' forward group is there, and it would not be surprising if he takes another big step in the right direction next season because of it. He is one of the Flyers' most promising prospects, and it is going to be interesting to see if he can hit a new level in 2026-27.
May 8, 2026; Berea, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Taylen Green (15) throws a pass during rookie minicamp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images | Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Green originally started his career at Boise State, where he spent two years with the Broncos before eventually transferring to Arkansas for the remainder of his collegiate career. The one thing that stands out about Green is his athletic profile. 6’6, 227 lbs. If there is one thing that Green has that most, if not all, NFL GM’s like in terms of quarterbacks is the rare athletic profile. One of the reasons why teams loved Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen coming out of school is because of his athletic profile, as well as his uber-talented arm.
Green isn’t in the same stratosphere as Allen, but he put on a show during the NFL Combine this past February.
Taylen Green is a QB prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored an unofficial 9.99 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 2 out of 1052 QB from 1987 to 2026.
He has the physical makeup, but in terms of the quarterback position, he is a project. His footwork is a work in progress, and he needs to work on going through his progressions. Green also has a tendency (similar to Sanders) to go big play hunting instead of taking the easy plays that are given to him. Green isn’t like most projects in terms of his starts (he started over 46 games in college), but he has key areas that he has to work on if he wants to find a path in the NFL as a quarterback.
The things mentioned earlier are all things that Green can improve with time. In terms of his footwork, he has to learn how to quiet his feet and improve upon his lower body mechanics. He also needs to work on his accuracy in terms of hitting the short throws.
Green has immense upside as a runner and could be used in RPO situations, which this Browns offense will utilize. Green has a path to making the roster, and it’s unlikely he clears waivers if the Browns choose to cut him. If Cleveland has to choose between either Gabriel or Green, it’s likely Green makes the roster. Gabriel might be further in terms of the mental makeup of playing quarterback, but Gabriel’s skillset doesn’t translate to the current iteration of this Browns offense.
No one is in a rush to see Green play right away, but there is a path for him to be on this roster as QB3 and potentially develop into something more if the team chooses to stick with him.
SOVOL teases a “Step Forward” for its 3D printing technology SOVOL plans to open up a “new frontier for your creativity”, teasing a new 3D printer design that appears to have at least 6 toolheads. Last month, SOVOL teased a 3D printer that promised to be both “multi-colour” and “multi-material”. This newly unveiled printer appears […]
Maingear impressed us with its MG-1 pre-built gaming PC in 2025, and the company has now returned with an MG-1 MK.II model that addresses most of the complaints I had. Here's what you need to know before buying.
It has been nearly two years since the iPad mini 7 became everyone’s favorite compact tablet to enjoy, but that’s also because no one in the Android camp believed that introducing a competitor of their own was necessary, until now. OnePlus, which has had some experience in this segment, is allegedly planning to introduce a rival that’s outfitted with flagship specifications, but that also means the slate will fetch a significantly higher price. Looking at Apple’s unparalleled dominance in the tablet space, companies don’t dare take on the Cupertino firm, so this is a refreshing start. The iPad mini 7 rival […]
The first Cray T3D supercomputer ever produced, serial number 6001, was recently put up for auction, with opening bids from £60,000 (~$81,000) invited.
The Khronos Group, which created the Vulkan API standard and continues to develop and maintain it, added the Steam Machine to its list of conformant products. This does not indicate how far or soon a product will come to the market, but it's a step in the right direction showing that much-awaited console will arrive... someday.
Today, we will take a look at Advanced Shader Delivery (ASD) – a new gaming feature aimed at improving the overall user experience by reducing load times dramatically and improving 1% low FPS. We tested six games, measuring up to a 95% improvement in game loading times and solid improvements in 1% Low FPS in some titles.
PeppaRose silk scarves have been added to the onboard offering of cruise retailer Harding+, available on select ships throughout this Mediterranean season. According to a statement, listings have been secured across nine ships spanning the Cunard, Princess and Viking fleets. “We are delighted to officially launch with Harding+ and to see PeppaRose introduced across such a strong selection of premium and luxury...
TUI has launched what it says is its first-ever global loyalty program, the TUI Smiles Rewards Club. The club, which is free to join, allows guests to collect Smiles, or points, across the company’s portfolio, by purchasing flights, hotels, packages, cruises and experiences. These can then be turned into access to members-only rewards, offers, partner...
Samsung is readying three foldable phones for the Summer Unpacked event, and one of the two book-type models may launch as the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra.
Last year’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 will be getting successors this year, and the company is also working on another book-type foldable, which reportedly features a passport-style form factor with a wider display.
It was widely expected that this wider model could be called Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide or simply the Galaxy Z Fold Wide. Meanwhile, Samsung appears to have finalized the branding, which incorporates an Ultra surprise.
Our friends over at SamMobile report that Samsung could launch the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. The branding shift is noticeable as the branding decision isn’t the same as we’re expecting for the devices.
Galaxy Z Fold 7’s sequel is getting an Ultra identity
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8 would arrive as the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. It will succeed last year’s Galaxy Z Fold 7, with the company tagging an Ultra tag along.
The wide-screen model is expected to be marketed as the Galaxy Z Fold 8. It’s completely different than what we’ve heard and almost every Samsung fan expected.
Samsung’s decision is strategic as the Wide model is coming as a preemptive model to compete with the first foldable iPhone from Apple, potentially launching as iPhone Ultra later this year.
Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is bringing some notable upgrades over its predecessor, including a bigger battery (5,000mAh), faster charging (45W), and a high-res ultrawide camera (50-megapixel).
Last year’s Fold model sold so well compared to previous foldable models. Now with some Ultra-level upgrades, it’s shaping up to enter the market with an Ultra identity.
Galaxy Z Fold 8 CAD Render (Source – Androidheadlines)
Video | The Leica Leitzphone is a globally available update to the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, already one of the best smartphones for photography. So does the new chassis, unique software experience, and the red dot really make a difference?
This is the first price leak for the Basic Bundle of the upcoming Insta360 Luna Ultra gimbal camera, with the premium Creator Bundle potentially reaching a price of €1,000. These prices align with reported US pricing of approximately $780, positioning the camera as a pro-grade competitor to compact DLSRs and the unannounced DJI Osmo Pocket 4P.
Vasiliy Lomachenko could land an immediate world title shot, but only if he chooses to campaign at 130lbs. Either way, the 38-year-old is set to return to action later this year, having allowed his deal with Top Rank to expire earlier this month. As a promotional free agent, ‘Loma’ is now expected to fight for […]
A past foe of has described the Ukrainian’s battle with Rico Verhoeven as a robbery. Usyk was defending his heavyweight crown against kickboxing legend Verhoeven at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, in a bout that most believed would be a straightforward outing for the unified champion. It certainly didn’t unfold that was, as despite […]
RWA tokenization just crossed $29B, with BlackRock, Franklin Templeton, and Ondo leading. Here's why this matters more than any token price chart in crypto
A New York Times investigation found that senior CFTC officials who raised concerns about Polymarket, Crypto.com and Gemini were suspended and pushed out.
Acun Ilıcalı'nın sahibi olduğu Hull City'yi 9 yıl sonra Premier Lig'e taşıyan İskoç golcü Oli McBurnie, İspanyolların radarına girdi. Real Betis, Wembley kahramanı için 15 milyon euroluk çılgın bir teklif hazırlıyor.
Real Betis transfer piyasasını salladı... Fichajes’in paylaştığı habere göre Endülüs temsilcisi, Acun Ilıcalı’nın sahibi olduğu ve dün Wembley’de oynanan dplay-off finaliyle adını Premier Lig'e yazdıran Hull City'nin İskoç golcüsü Oli McBurnie için kesenin ağzını açtı.
İspanyol ekibinin, golcü oyuncu için 15 milyon euro civarında bir bonservis bedelini gözden çıkardığı belirtiliyor.
Maçın 90+6. dakikasında sahneye çıkarak attığı altın değerindeki golle Hull City'yi tam 9 yıl aradan sonra yeniden İngiltere'nin en üst ligine taşıyan Oli McBurnie, bu performansıyla Avrupa devlerinin radarına girdi.
Bu sezon Hull City formasıyla harikalar yaratan 29 yaşındaki İskoç santrafor, tüm kulvarlarda 18 gol ve 8 asistlik göz kamaştırıcı bir istatistik yakalayarak takımın Premier Lig yürüyüşündeki en büyük mimarı oldu.
Beşiktaş Futbol Direktörü Önder Özen, Azerbaycan basınına yaptığı açıklamada, adı siyah-beyazlı kulüple anılan teknik direktör Kurban Kurbanov iddialarını kesin bir dille yalanlayarak, "Gündemimizde böyle bir konu yok" dedi.
Beşiktaş'ta teknik direktör arayışları ve transfer iddiaları gündemi meşgul etmeye devam ederken, siyah-beyazlı kulübün Futbol Direktörü Önder Özen'den taraftarı ve spor kamuoyunu aydınlatan önemli bir açıklama geldi.
Azeri Telegraf konuşan Önder Özen, Karabağ takımıyla başarıdan başarıya koşan tecrübeli teknik adam Kurban Kurbanov'un Beşiktaş'ın başına geçeceği yönündeki iddiaları kesin bir dille yalanladı.
- Kurban Kurbanov çok değerli, son derece başarılı bir teknik direktör ve kendisine büyük saygı duyuyoruz. Ancak şu anda Beşiktaş kulübünün gündeminde böyle bir konu yok. Çıkan haberlerin doğru olmadığını belirtmek isterim.
Azerbaycan futbolunun en başarılı teknik direktörlerinden biri olarak gösterilen Kurban Kurbanov, Karabağ kulübünde yakaladığı istikrar ve Avrupa kupalarındaki başarılarıyla dikkat çekiyor.
Fenerbahçe Başkan Adayı Aziz Yıldırım, kongre öncesi elindeki en büyük kozu oynayarak camiaya net bir rest çekti: "Bu son gelişim, bir daha gelmem! Kan akıyor ve bu kanı durdurmamız lazım. Sırf Fenerbahçeli çocuklar mutlu olsun diye bu yola girdim."
Fenerbahçe’de yaklaşan seçim öncesi başkan adayı Aziz Yıldırım, kongre üyelerine ve camiaya seslenerek çok konuşulacak bir "son koz" hamlesini oynadu.
Seçimi kazanamaması durumunda bir daha asla aday olmayacağını açıklayan Yıldırım, mevcut gidişata dair sert ve duygusal uyarılarda bulundu.
- Kan akıyor... Bu kanı durdurmamız lazım! Bakın, bu son gelişim. Bir daha gelmem, bunu bilin. Çünkü ihtiyacım yok Fenerbahçe başkanlığına. Artık belli bir yaşa, belli pozisyona gelmiş bir insanım. Bundan sonra hayatımı yaşamak istiyorum. Sırf Fenerbahçeli çocuklar mutlu olsun diye bu yola girdim.
Aziz Yıldırım’ın "Bu bir son tango" mesajı içeren açıklamaları, kongre üyeleri üzerinde büyük bir yankı uyandırdı. Camianın kaderini belirleyecek olan bu kritik seçim öncesi, Yıldırım'ın "Bir daha beni göremezsiniz" restinin sandığa nasıl yansıyacağı ise büyük bir merak konusu.
Süper Lig'de sezonu 10. sırada tamamlayan Kocaelispor'da mevcut başkan Recep Durul, genel kurulda güven tazeledi.
Kocaeli Kongre Merkezi'nde düzenlenen genel kurulda divan başkanlığına Muammer Çelik, üyeliklere de Nebi Gönenç, Erçin Bayırlı, Faruk Kurnaz ve Mesut Yılancı getirildi.
Yönetim kurulunun idari ve mali yönden ibra edilmesine ilişkin oylama öncesi, salona delegeler dışında kişilerin de alındığının belirtilmesi üzerine genel kurula 15 dakika ara verildi.
Aranın ardından delegeler, üyelik durumları kontrol edilerek salona alındı. Genel kurulda yönetim kurulu, mali ve idari yönden oy çokluğuyla ibra edildi.
Tek listeyle gidilen kongrede Recep Durul, yeniden başkanlığa seçildi.
Recep Durul başkanlığındaki yeni yönetim kurulunda şu isimler yer aldı:
Ahmet Arık, Burak Gülener, Engin Arat, Erkan Bilgiç, Gürhan Darcan, Haşmet Uçar, İsmail Yaman, Kadir Genç, Kamil Sert, Kani Furkan Kaçar, Mert Kavşut, Mustafa Tanrıkulu, Niyazi Şahin Gündoğdu, Ömür Öztürk, Rafet Kırgız, Sefa Ertuğ, Serkan Akpolat, Serkan Bulut, Veli Başkurt, Zeynel Abidin Akyol.
"Kocaelispor'un hedefi her zaman Avrupa'dır"
Recep Durul, basın mensuplarına yaptığı açıklamada, genel kurula katılan taraftarlara ve kongre üyelerine teşekkür ederek, seçimin Kocaelispor camiasına hayırlı olmasını diledi.
Bundan sonraki süreçte de Kocaelispor'u en iyi şekilde temsil etmeye çalışacaklarını belirten Durul, "Kocaelispor'un başarısı için tüm şehir olarak, taraftarlar olarak hep birlikte elimizden geleni yapmaya çalışacağız. Taraftarlarımıza, camiamıza hayırlı olsun. Kocaelispor'un hedefi her zaman Avrupa'dır, kümede kalmak değildir. Bunun altını çizerek yineliyorum." ifadelerini kullandı.
Fenerbahçe'de hem Aziz Yıldırım hem de Hakan Safi, 2 forvet transferi yapmayı planlıyor. Bu durumda, Sidiki Cherif'in takımdan ayrılması kesin gibi... Genç santrforun en kötü ihtimalle kiralanması bekleniyor.
Devre arasında elindeki forvetleri gönderen Fenerbahçe, bu bölgeye sadece Angers Kulübü'nden Sidiki Cherif takviyesini yapmıştı. Genç santrforun hem performansı hem de maliyeti ciddi şekilde sorgulandı:
Kiralama bedeli: 4 milyon euro
Satın alma maddesi: 18 milyon euro
Bonuslar: 3 milyon euro
HANGİ AKIL ALDI!
Fenerbahçe'nin başkan adaylarından Aziz Yıldırım daha önce 19 yaşındaki futbolcuyla ilgili, "Bu Sidiki'yi kim aldı? Hangi akıl aldı?" açıklamasında bulunmuştu. Yıldırım, 2 santrfor takviyesi planlıyor. Bu durumda 1.88 boyundaki futbolcu, 3. golcü durumuna düşecek...
TABLO PEK PARLAK DEĞİL
Hakan Safi cephesinde de durum aynı... O da en az 2 santrfor getireceğini söylemişti. Yani Sidiki Cherif açısından 2 ihtimalde de tablo pek parlak değil... Herhangi bir kulübün, Fenerbahçe'nin ödediği rakamları önerip önermeyeceği bilinmiyor. En kötü ihtimalle 1.88 boyundaki futbolcunun kiralanması bekleniyor.
Antalya'da düzenlenen 2026 Açık Hava Avrupa Okçuluk Şampiyonası'nda Elif Berra Gökkır-Mete Gazoz ikilisinden oluşan klasik yay karışık takımı şampiyonluğa ulaştı.
Türkiye'nin ev sahipliğinde Antalya 100. Yıl Okçuluk Tesisleri'nde gerçekleştirilen şampiyonada, 41 ülkeden 307 okçu mücadele ediyor.
Turnuvanın son gününde karışık takımlar altın madalya maçında Elif Berra Gökkır-Mete Gazoz ikilisi, Fransız rakiplerini yenerek Avrupa şampiyonu oldu.
Karışık takımlarda üçüncülüğü ise Almanya'yı yenen İspanya elde etti.
Hakan Safi'nin seçim hesabından Rafael Leao hakkında bir açıklama yayınlandı. Yapılan açıklamada, "Kongre üyelerinin sandığa kafaları rahat, hiçbir soru işareti olmadan gelmesi sağlanacaktır." sözleri kullanıldı.
Fenerbahçe Başkan Adayı Hakan Safi'nin seçim hesabından yapılan açıklamada şu ifadeler kullanıldı:
"Dün gece Rafael Leao transfer çalışması hakkında bir ajans tarafından gönderilen ve maksadı belli olan hesaplar tarafından kelimesi dahi değiştirilmeden kullanılan sözde haber yalandır.
Fenerbahçe SK Başkan Adayı Sn. Hakan Safi, bugüne kadar temiz, etik ve ilkeli bir iletişim stratejisi sürdürülmesi için çok net bir duruş sergilemiştir. Seçim kampanyası sürecinde de herkesten beklentisi budur.
Fenerbahçe'nin futbol planlaması hakkında açıklamalar 7 Haziran öncesinde yapılacak ve kongre üyelerinin sandığa kafaları rahat, hiçbir soru işareti olmadan gelmesi sağlanacaktır.
Bu kalitesiz operasyon çabasını Fenerbahçe kamuoyunun takdirine bırakıyoruz.
Dezenformasyon yapan sosyal medya hesapları hakkında hukuki işlem başlatılacağını da siz kıymetli Fenerbahçelilerle paylaşmak isteriz. Kimsenin ucuz seçim stratejileriyle Fenerbahçelileri kandırmasına izin vermeyeceğiz."
Galatasaray'ın, Palmeiras forması giyen 22 yaşındaki sağ kanat oyuncusu Allan ile ilgilendiği ortaya çıktı. Brezilya ekibi ise resmi teklifi bekliyor...
Önümüzdeki sezon 10+4'lük kontenjan sebebiyle genç yabancıların önemi arttı. Galatasaray'ın transfer planlamalarında da bu durum doğal olarak öne çıktı. Cim-Bom'un, Palmeiras forması giyen Allan'ı listesine eklediği öğrenildi. Sambacı, 19 Nisan 2004 doğumlu... Yani +4'e uyuyor...
ALTYAPIDAN ÇIKTI
1.74 boyundaki futbolcu, Palmeiras altyapısından çıktı. 2025'in Ocak ayında A Takım kadrosuna alındı. Allan'ın tahmini piyasa değeri 15 milyon euro civarında... Bu sezon Brezilya Ligi'nde 16 karşılaşmaya çıktı. Sahada 1.183 dakika kaldı. 4 gol ve 2 asist üretti...
RAKAM BELİRLEYECEKLER
Allan sağ kanat, orta sahanın sağı ve 10 numarada görev yapabiliyor. Palmeiras Yönetimi'nin, Galatasaray'ın ilgisinden haberdar olduğu belirtildi. Brezilya ekibi, resmi teklifi bekliyor. 22 yaşındaki futbolcunun 31 Aralık 2029 tarihine kadar mukavelesi var. Sarı-Kırmızılılar'ın, oyuncu için sunulacak teklif konusunda rakamı belirlemeye çalıştığı öğrenildi.
We'll show you how to watch Sunderland vs Chelsea live streams from anywhere in the world, as the race for Europe concludes today with this crucial clash.
We'll show you how to watch West Ham vs Leeds live streams from anywhere in the world – it's now or never in the Hammers' bid for Premier League survival.
We'll show you how to watch Tottenham vs Everton live streams from anywhere in the world as 48 years of top-flight soccer could come to an end in north London.
Fenerbahçe başkan adayı Aziz Yıldırım, Fenerbahçeli İş Adamları Derneği'nin düzenlediği "Başkan Adayları ile Sohbetler" programında dikkat çeken açıklamalar yaptı.
Fenerbahçe'de Hakan Safi cephesi, Rafael Leao transferiyle ilgili ortaya atılan iddiaların yalan olduğunu açıklayarak, dezenformasyon yapan hesaplar hakkında hukuki süreç başlatılacağını duyurdu.
Galatasaray'ın transfer gündeminde yer alan Can Uzun hakkında flaş bir iddia gündeme geldi. Sarı-kırmızılıların milli futbolcunun bonservisi için ayırdığı rakam belli olurken Uzun'un kulübü Frankfurt'un...Devamı için tıklayınız
Seçime kısa bir süre kala Fenerbahçe'de başkan adaylarından Aziz Yıldırım'ın kadro planlaması netleşti. Yıldırım, kadroya düşündüğü 5 yıldız isimden en az 3'ünü transfer etmek isterken, aradığı kanat oyuncusunu...Devamı için tıklayınız
Kocaelispor’da mevcut başkan Recep Durul, genel kurulda güven tazeledi. Kocaelispor’un kimsenin oyuncağı olmadığını belirten Durul, "Görevde ısrarla durmak doğru değil. 'Kulübe fayda sağlayacağına inanan...Devamı için tıklayınız
Futbol üzrə Azərbaycan çempionu “Sabah”ın UEFA Çempionlar Liqasının (ÇL) 1-ci təsnifat mərhələsindəki mümkün rəqibləri müəyyənləşib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, ÇL-in 1-ci təsnifat mərhələsinin püşkü iyunun 16-da atılacaq.
“Sabah” püşkatmada “səpələnməmişlər” səbətində yer alacaq. Azərbaycan çempionunun rəqibləri isə “səpələnmişlər” səbətindəki bu 14 komandadan biri olacaq:
Qeyd edək ki, UEFA Çempionlar Liqasında 1-ci təsnifat mərhələsinin oyunları iyulun 7/8-də və 14/15-də keçiriləcək.
Azərbaycan çempionu “Sabah” ÇL-də ilk raundu uğurla adlaya bilsə, növbəti mərhələdə qarşılaşmaq ehtimalı olan klublardan 7-si artıq bilinir. Belə ki, təmsilçimiz turnir uğurlu start götürsə, 2-ci raundun püşkatmasında “səpələnməmişlər”də qərarlaşacaq.
Valdas Dambrauskasın yetirmələrinin həmin mərhələdəki mümkün rəqibləri “Srvena Zvezda” (Serbiya), “Dinamo” (Zaqreb, Xorvatiya), “Slovan” (Slovakiya), “Lex” (Polşa), “Çelye” (Sloveniya), “Omoniya” (Kipr) və “Hapoel”dir (Beer-Şeva, İsrail). Digər 5 potensial rəqib 1-ci təsnifat mərhələsinin nəticələrindən asılı olacaq.
“Orhus” (Danimarka), “Tyun” (İsveçrə) və “Myalbü” (İsveç) isə zəiflərin səbətində yer alacağı üçün “Sabah”a rəqib olmayacaqlar.
Qeyd edək ki, Çempionlar Liqasında 2-ci təsnifat mərhələsinin püşkü iyunun 17-də atılacaq. Bu raundun oyunları 22-23 və 28-29 iyul tarixlərində baş tutacaq.
Premyer Liqaya vəsiqə uğrunda pley-off oyununun nominal meydan sahibinin müəyyənləşdirilməsi məqsədilə püşkatma mərasimi keçirilib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, mərasimdə Peşəkar Futbol Liqasının (PFL), Premyer Liqanın 11-cisi “Qəbələ”nin və Birinci Liqanın son turunda 2-ci yeri tutmağı bacarmış “Mingəçevir”in nümayəndələri iştirak ediblər.
PFL Yarışların təşkili və qeydiyyatı şöbəsinin baş mütəxəssisi Elvin Yaqubov, “Qəbələ” idman direktoru Səbuhi Səfiyarlı, “Mingəçevir” isə İdarə Heyətinin sədr müavini Ruslan Həmidov ilə təmsil olunub. Püşkatmaya əsasən “Qəbələ” nominal meydan sahibi olub.
Püşkatmadan sonra klub nümayəndələri ilə Peşəkar Futbol Liqası arasında görüş keçirilib. Görüşdə Peşəkar Futbol Liqasının texniki-idman direktoru Elgiz Abbasov pley-off oyunu ilə bağlı ilkin təşkilati məsələlər, pley-off oyununun qaydaları, nəzərə alınacaq digər məqamlarla bağlı ətraflı məlumat verib, klub rəsmilərinin oyunla bağlı planları dinlənilib.
PFL-in qərarına əsasən, Premyer Liqa uğrunda pley-off oyunu mayın 28-də “Sumqayıt Arena”da keçiriləcək. Həlledici görüşə saat 18:30-da start veriləcək. Bu oyunda VAR sistemi tətbiq ediləcək. Qalib gələcək Premyer Liqaya yüksələcəksə, məğlub tərəf Birinci Liqada çıxış etmək məcburiyyətində qalacaq.
Misli Premyer Liqasının XXXIII turunun “Araz-Naxçıvan”la səfər oyununda vurulan sonuncu qol “Zirə” üçün əlamətdar olub.
Futbolpress.az PFL-ə istinadən xəbər verir ki, qəsəbə klubu Premyer Liqada 400-cü dəfə qol sevinci yaşayıb.
Yubiley topuna Junior Martins imza atıb. Bununla da “Zirə” Azərbaycan çempionatları tarixində yüksək dəstədə 400 və daha çox qol vuran 10-cu komanda olub.
Bakı klubunun 400-cü qolu Premyer Liqadakı 337-ci matça təsadüf edib. Qəsəbə komandası evdə 218, səfərdə 182 dəfə fərqlənib.
Debütü 2015/16 mövsümünə təsadüf edən klubun Premyer Liqadakı ilk qoluna Viktor İqbekoyi imza atıb. O, 2015-ci il avqustun 9-da AZAL-la ev görüşünün (1:0) 5-ci dəqiqəsində rəqib qapısına yol tapıb.
Qeyd edək ki, “Zirə” “Araz-Naxçıvan”la səfər görüşündə 2:3 hesabı ilə uduzub.
Misli Premyer Liqasının 2025/26 mövsümündə 500-cü qol vurulub.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, yubiley XXXIII turun “Sumqayıt” – “Qarabağ” görüşünə (3:4) təsadüf edib.
Rüstəm Əhmədzadənin vurduğu top mövsümdə 500-cü olub. Bu, çempionatdakı 195-ci qarşılaşmaya təsadüf edib.
Ölkə çempionatları tarixində yüksək dəstədə mövsümün 500-cü qolunun vurulması 21 ildən sonra qeydə alınıb. Sonuncu dəfə 2004/05 mövsümündə belə hadisə yaşanıb. Sonrakı turnirlərdə qol sayı 500-dən aşağı olub.
Qeyd edək ki, 2004/05 mövsümündə 684 qol vurulub. Bir mövsümdəki qol sayındakı rekord isə 1992-ci ilə təsadüf edib. Həmin vaxt 1177 qol vurulub.
Lothar Matthaus has publicly backed Leon Goretzka to join AC Milan, insisting he can picture the German midfielder thriving alongside Luka Modric at San Siro as the Bayern Munich man’s future remains unresolved ahead of the World Cup.
Speaking on Sky Deutschland following Bayern’s DFB Pokal final victory over Stuttgart, via CalcioMercato, the Germany and Inter Milan legend was effusive in his praise for Goretzka before endorsing a potential move to the Rossoneri.
“Leon is a model player,” Matthaus said. “I would like to thank him because these eight years with him have been enjoyable. Leon has always been an example.”
FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY – MARCH 26: TV expert Lothar Matthäus looks on after the international friendly match between Germany and Netherlands at Deutsche Bank Park on March 26, 2024 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Matthaus backs Goretzka & Modric partnership as Bayern man keeps options open before World Cup
On a potential move to Milan specifically, Matthaus was encouraging. “I would see him well alongside Modric,” he said. “In the coming years I can picture him taking on that challenge.”
Goretzka himself, also speaking on the broadcast, was deliberately non-committal about his next destination. “I have not decided yet and I would not say the choice will happen between the end of the season and the start of the World Cup,” he said. “I will simply decide when I feel the moment is right.”
The 31-year-old is out of contract at Bayern this summer and will head to the World Cup as a free agent, a status that makes him one of the most attractive targets available at zero cost this summer.
For Milan, who are in the market for midfield reinforcement and may yet retain Allegri, a player of Goretzka’s profile, physical, technically accomplished and experienced at the highest level of European football, would represent a compelling addition.
His potential partnership with Modric, should both end up at San Siro next season, would give Allegri a midfield axis combining youth, power and elite-level craft in equal measure.
Parma host Sassuolo at the Stadio Ennio Tardini this afternoon, as both sides hunt a win that could give them an extra place in the league table, even though both sides have nothing left to play for but pride.
It kicks off at 14.00 UK time (15.00 CEST).
Parma have had a solid season under former Arsenal coach Carlos Cuesta, who joined from the Gunners last summer to become the youngest head coach of the modern Serie A era.
Their season has been marked by a defensive resilience and expertise from set pieces – mirroring that of Cuesta’s former club.
Sassuolo, meanwhile, can move into the top half of the table with a win today, if Udinese fall to defeat against Napoli.
The Neroverdi have impressed under Fabio Grosso, although the coach looks set to feature in the merry-go-round as a number of Serie A clubs prepare to change technicians over the summer.
This local derby sees both teams in celebratory mood after securing comfortable mid-table safety, but also with decimated squads for this final round.
The hosts are without Zion Suzuki, Nesta Elphege, Adrian Bernabé, Gaetano Oristanio, Gabriel Strefezza, Enrico Delprato, Benja Cremaschi, Nahuel Estevez, Filippo Rinaldi, Matija Frigan and Jacob Ondrejka.
The Neroverdi, meanwhile, are missing Sebastian Walukiewicz, Aster Vranckx, Daniel Boloca, Filippo Romagna, Fali Candé and Darryl Bakola.
GENOA, ITALY – APRIL 12: Ismael Koné of Sassuolo (2nd from left) celebrates with his team-mates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on April 12, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Zion Suzuki has emerged as one of the most sought-after goalkeepers in European football following an impressive season at Parma, with Napoli, Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Galatasaray all understood to be monitoring the Japanese international.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, via TuttoMercatoWeb, Napoli are the most concrete Italian suitor, while the interest from United and Bayern underlines the scale of attention Suzuki has attracted after playing a key role in Parma’s comfortable Serie A survival under Carlos Cuesta.
The 23-year-old was not included in the starting lineup for Sunday’s final day fixture against Sassuolo.
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Giovanni Manna of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Parma determined not to sell Suzuki cheaply as Napoli join list of suitors
No formal negotiations are underway and no decisions have been made, but the sense within the club is that Suzuki’s future could well lie away from the Tardini.
Parma owner Kyle Krause is aware of the player’s value and has no intention of allowing a cut-price exit.
It has not been a straightforward season for Suzuki, who went through a difficult period earlier in the campaign dealing with injury and inconsistent form.
His recovery in the second half of the season, including a remarkable performance saving four penalties in a single match, is what reignited interest from clubs across Europe and drew widespread attention to his abilities.
For Napoli, Suzuki would represent a long-term option in goal as the club begins planning for life after the current goalkeeping setup.
Tony D’Amico has emerged as the frontrunner to become Roma’s new sporting director, with the outgoing Atalanta director considered the ideal profile by the club’s hierarchy as they prepare to replace Frederic Massara.
According to TuttoHellasVerona, D’Amico, who leaves Atalanta this summer following Cristiano Giuntoli’s imminent appointment as his successor in Bergamo, has moved to the top of Roma’s shortlist ahead of Verona’s Sean Sogliano, who had previously been under consideration but now appears to have fallen behind in the race.
PARMA, ITALY – MAY 10: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma, looks on pose for a team photograph prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and AS Roma at Stadio Ennio Tardini on May 10, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
D’Amico’s Atalanta experience makes him ideal fit for Gasperini’s Roma project
The appointment would make considerable sense on a footballing level.
D’Amico worked alongside Gian Piero Gasperini at Atalanta, where the pair developed a strong and productive working relationship during one of the most successful periods in the Bergamo club’s history.
Gasperini has made clear he wants a sporting director he trusts and can collaborate with closely, and D’Amico fits that brief precisely.
Igli Tare’s exit from AC Milan may not be as inevitable as recently reported, with Massimiliano Allegri’s expected continuation as head coach potentially changing the dynamic around the sporting director’s future at the club.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, via MilanNews24, Allegri holds Tare in high regard, and should the coach be confirmed for next season, which appears likely if Milan secure Champions League football against Cagliari on Sunday, that relationship could prove decisive in persuading the club to retain the Albanian director despite the widespread expectation of his departure in recent days.
VERONA, ITALY – APRIL 19: Igli Tare, Sporting Director, looks on prior to the Serie A match at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on April 19, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Moncada future also uncertain as Nice make approach for Milan recruitment chief
The situation represents a significant shift from the narrative of the past week, during which Tare’s exit had appeared all but confirmed amid the broader turbulence surrounding Milan’s leadership structure.
The club’s hierarchy remains in flux, with owner Gerry Cardinale set to make sweeping decisions once the season concludes.
The recruitment director has attracted interest from Nice, though he is reported to be keen on remaining at San Siro.
With Furlani’s departure expected and multiple roles potentially changing hands, Milan’s summer off the pitch looks set to be as dramatic as the season itself.
Fabio Capello has delivered his verdict on the four-way Champions League race heading into the final day of the Serie A season, backing Roma as the side in the best shape while warning that Como will feel the absence of the injured Nico Paz acutely.
The former Milan and England coach spoke to Gazzetta dello Sport, via MilanNews, ahead of a dramatic evening in which Milan, Roma, Como and Juventus all go into their final fixtures with the top four still undecided, and with only two of the quartet guaranteed to finish there.
Fabio Capello (Photo by Jurij Kodrun/Getty Images)
Capello backs Roma and warns Juventus they need collective response not individual heroics
On Roma, Capello was glowing. “Roma are in very good shape,” he said. “They have done some important things recently, shown continuity of play and performance as a team. They have also recovered all their players, for example Dybala, which means Gasperini only has to get his selections right.”
Milan’s prospects, Capello suggested, hinge on the collective rather than on the return of any single player.
“The return of Modric can give a little serenity to the squad,” he said. “But you should not think that if he plays then everything is already resolved. Everyone must give more, as they have done in certain moments in recent matches. But from the first minute.”
“Como must keep winning, but without Paz it is a fine team that is missing his genius,” Capello said. “He is the man who has always made the difference, both with the goals he has managed to score and with his illuminating passes.”
On Juventus, who face the Turin derby, Capello stressed the need for a collective response.
“Here we must not name one player alone, it is not enough,” he said. “It is the team that must find itself again, forget the last defeat, win and hope the results at the end of the evening are favourable.”
Arne Slot’s position at Liverpool has come under serious scrutiny after reports claimed there is growing unrest inside the dressing room, with Mohamed Salah’s public frustration adding another dramatic layer to an already difficult end to the season.
According to Football Insider, there are concerns that Slot has “lost” parts of the Liverpool dressing room following a tense spell between the manager and Salah.
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Slot, however, has publicly played down suggestions of a major mood change within the squad.
This is not the kind of situation Liverpool would have wanted heading into the final days of the campaign.
Issues between Arne Slot and Mo Salah continue
The Reds are still fighting to secure a Champions League place, and their final league game against Brentford has become even more important because of the noise around the manager and Salah.
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The Guardian reported that Liverpool have not won any of the nine league matches in 2026 where Salah did not start, which shows just how awkward this situation is for Slot.
Dropping Salah for disciplinary reasons could send a message, but it could also damage Liverpool on the pitch at the worst possible time.
Salah’s frustration seems to be based around Liverpool’s playing style and the change from Jurgen Klopp’s high-energy football to Slot’s approach.
That was always going to be a difficult transition. Klopp was not just a manager at Liverpool, he was the emotional centre of the club for years.
He argued that Liverpool’s problems are not just about the manager, but also about recruitment, squad balance and the influence of big personalities such as Salah.
Marta Kostyuk said none of her family or close friends had been injured in the attacks on Kyiv [Getty Images]
Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk says she is grateful her family are alive after Russian missiles narrowly missed their Kyiv home the night before her French Open first-round match.
Russia launched a wave of overnight strikes against Ukraine on Saturday, firing hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles.
Four people were killed in Kyiv and the wider region and about 100 were injured.
Kostyuk beat Russian-born Oksana Selekhmeteva 6-2 6-3 on Sunday and gave an emotional on-court interview afterwards, describing it as "one of the most difficult matches" of her career.
The 23-year-old showed journalists in her post-match news conference a photograph of a building on fire just 100 metres from her family home, where her mother, sister and great-aunt were sleeping.
Kostyuk said none of her family or close friends had been injured in the attacks but remained "scared".
"Most of the morning I felt sick because I thought if it was 100m closer, I probably wouldn't have a mum and a sister today," Kostyuk said.
"I had to live through it, deal with it and go out and play.
"I didn't know how I'm going to be able to control my emotions or thoughts."
Kostyuk did not acknowledge Selekhmeteva, who was playing her first match under the Spanish flag after switching allegiance earlier this week.
Ukrainian players have a long-standing policy of not shaking hands with opponents from Russia and its ally Belarus.
Kostyuk was cheered by the crowd during her on-court interview as she told them: "I have been crying this morning. I don't want to talk about myself today.
"All my heart and all my thoughts go to the people of Ukraine today."
The 15th seed later added: "I think [the damage] was the closest that it has ever been to my house, and this what probably makes it the most emotional.
"There are better days, worse days, but this one was in the top three worst days, for sure."
Madrid Open champion Kostyuk is one of the contenders for the Roland Garros title, having won all 12 of her matches on the clay this year.
Kostyuk, whose best French Open result was reaching the fourth round in 2021, will face Katie Volynets next after the American beat France's Clara Burel 6-3 6-1.
BATTLE CREEK — Meet the most recent nominees for Battle Creek Enquirer Athletes of the Week, presented by Bronson Battle Creek Hospital.
Each week during the high school sports season, we will ask our readers to vote for the top performance of the week in all high school sports, taking a look at events from Monday-Saturday.
MORE: Enquirer Top Performances for high school sports for May 18-24
Make sure to vote early and often for your pick, as the winner will be featured in an Athlete of the Week spotlight story in the Sunday edition of the Enquirer. Fans can vote for their favorite athlete until Wednesday at 5 p.m.
Nominees for Bronson Battle Creek Athlete of the Week
Brendan Daugherty
Harper Creek Boys Golf
Harper Creek senior Brendan Daugherty and Harper Creek junior Mack King shared medalist honors as they finished tied for first at the 2026 All-City Boys Golf Tournament at Marywood Golf Club. Both Daugherty and King finished with a round of 83 for the 18-hole tournament. Those two golfers helped Harper Creek win the team title for the fifth season in a row. Harper Creek finished with a team score of 346.
Mack King
Harper Creek Boys Golf
Harper Creek senior Brendan Daugherty and Harper Creek junior Mack King shared medalist honors as they finished tied for first at the 2026 All-City Boys Golf Tournament at Marywood Golf Club. Both Daugherty and King finished with a round of 83 for the 18-hole tournament. Those two golfers helped Harper Creek win the team title for the fifth season in a row. Harper Creek finished with a team score of 346.
Josh Ilgenfritz
Harper Creek Boys Track
Harper Creek claimed the Interstate 8 Conference championship in boys track as the Beavers finished first at the league meet. The No. 2 state-ranked Harper Creek squad had 165.5 team points to outdistance second-place Parma Western with 130. Josh Ilgenfritz won the 800 (1:58.4). Harper Creek took first in the 3,200 relay (8:19.19) with the team of Ilgenfritz, Logyn Katsarsky, Cooper Gardner, Christian Ayres.
Lola Saber
Marshall Girls Soccer
Lola Saber helped the Marshall girls soccer team clinch the Interstate 8 Conference title after earning a tie with Harper Creek 1-1. Saber scored the lone goal for the Redhawks in the game off pass from Nyla Whittaker. With the result, Marshall finished the league season at 5-0-1 for the outright title.
Bill Broderick can be reached at bbroderi@battlecreekenquirer.com. Follow him on X/Twitter: @billbroderick
Rajasthan Royals will be hoping to clinch the playoff spot in the Indian Premier League 2026 as they take on Mumbai Indians on Sunday at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
After a prolonged injury break, Rohit Sharma first made a comeback against Lucknow Super Giants, where he scored 84 runs in 44 balls and helped MI chase down 229 runs.
However, in the next match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, he started well but was dismissed early in the innings as he could score just 22 runs in 10 balls.
Against Punjab Kings, he struggled to get going. The lack of feet movement was evident as Yuzvendra Chahal broke through his defence with a hint of spin, and the stumps were rattled. Although he hit two sixes, there were no boundaries in his innings of 25 runs off 26 balls.
In the previous match, against Kolkata Knight Riders, he was dismissed for just 15 runs in 13 balls.
According to MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene Rohit is "100 per cent fit," and is likely to play the team's final match of the season.
“Yes, he had a hamstring injury. We gave him the time that he needed to recover from that and then he came back," Jayawardene said.
“The first game also, we were cautious even with his batting, the way he was running because he had to adapt to it slowly, gradually coming back into it. But for me, the medical team, everything is 100 per cent."
How many runs did Rohit Sharma score in today's MI vs RR IPL 2026 match?
Rohit Sharma came on as an impact sub in the second innings as MI were looking to chase 206 runs but the star opener departed for a duck in four balls.
What is Rohit Sharma's record in IPL?
Rohit has played 281 matches in IPL and has 7314 runs at an average of 30.10 and a strike rate of 133.05.
MUMBAI: Jofra Archer is “not bothered” by criticism back home over missing England’s first Test against New Zealand due to his IPL commitments, according to Rajasthan Royals assistant coach Trevor Penny.
Former England captains Michael Atherton and Michael Vaughan had questioned Archer prioritising the IPL over national duty, with Atherton describing the situation as “incredibly frustrating” in his column for The Times.
Speaking ahead of RR’s must-win IPL clash against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday, Penny said Archer had hardly discussed the issue inside the dressing room.
“It’s a big tournament. Everybody knows IPL is the thing to come to as well. If he misses one game for England, then so be it for him,” Penny said. “I don’t think it bothers him. Maybe he’d be a bit annoyed, but he’s just getting on as normal. Guys haven’t even spoken about it.”
England recently left Archer out of their squad for the opening Test against New Zealand as the ECB continues to manage his return to red-ball cricket after a lengthy injury layoff.
Injured Bethell returns home
Jacob Bethell has ended his IPL campaign with Royal Challengers Bengaluru after suffering a finger injury. The 22-year-old missed RCB’s defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad on Friday, with captain Rajat Patidar confirming the youngster had injured his finger.
Asa Tribe continued to stake his claim for a senior England call-up by holding together England Lions' second innings against South Africa A.
Skittled out for 157 in the first innings after opting to bat first, the tourists faced an uphill task at the Arundel Castle Cricket Club Ground after South Africa A posted 331.
Tribe and fellow opener Ben McKinney made an encouraging start to the second innings, but McKinney's departure for 32 saw a steady fall of wickets as the Lions finished on 218-4 overnight.
Standing firm though was Glamorgan's Jersey-born batter Tribe, the 22-year-old ending the day unbeaten on 88 before turning that into a century on Sunday as he and wicket-keeper Ben Mayes dug in.
"I definitely felt like it was tricky early on. It seamed around with the new ball and they put it in the right spots," Tribe said.
"I felt like you really have to earn the right to get into your innings and face a few extra balls before you could feel in on that wicket.
"I looked to judge well and leave well, and then when they did come straight I would punish that. That was my game-plan early on.
"It was about getting through that tough period rather than looking to punish bad bowling or really try to get on top of the bowlers. Once I got through that I was more fluid."
Tribe is developing the nice habit of scoring heavily once he gets his eye in.
Last September he hit his maiden double century in first class cricket for Glamorgan against Northamptonshire, while earlier in 2025 he hit three centuries in the space of a week for Jersey in the ICC Challenge League against Papua New Guinea.
Given his chance by England Lions last year, Tribe impressed with an unbeaten 129 in defeat to Australia A in Brisbane last December and kept his place in the squad for the two four-day matches against South Africa A.
Tribe has made no secret of his ambition to play for England, and as the selectors try to find a long-term opening combination he has quietly gone about stating his case.
Despite playing internationally for Jersey, he can represent England as they are full members of the International Cricket Council (ICC), rather than his home island which is an associate member.
"I feel like my batting is in a good spot. It isn't in an amazing spot but it isn't in a bad spot. It is somewhere in the middle, probably better than average side," he said.
"It was nice to get a little mention at the start of the year to be part of the Test stuff and I do want to push that for sure. When my time comes, I'll be ready. Right now isn't the time that the England guys see that, so that is fine.
"I spoke to (England managing director) Rob Key yesterday and he mentioned that my name was in the hat and in the discussions. That was great to hear and tells me I am doing all the right things.
"It isn't to be at the moment but who knows, a big hundred here and I might be knocking on the door."
If Tribe does realise his ambition and become the first Glamorgan player since Simon Jones in 2005 to play for England, it will have come off the back of a willingness to pack his bags and head for wherever there were opportunities to play and improve.
He had never played a game outside of Jersey until he left the island to study in Cardiff when he was 18, but joined Glamorgan on a rookie contract in 2023 before signing an improved deal last year.
Since then, his travels have taken Tribe to the National Cricket League in Texas, a stint in Adelaide playing Grade cricket, then onto a Nepalese T20 competition, before he was picked up by Paarl Royals to play in the South African T20 tournament last winter - as well as getting a deal to play grade cricket in Australia.
His stint with Paarl Royals in particular is bearing fruit, with Tribe having been able to tweak his technique ahead of this tour in South Africa.
"I have made a couple of technical changes and they have served me well here," he said.
"I am now more side on and added a little trigger in there and made sure I have added a few other shots.
"So if the lads are missing slightly short on the off-side I can still punch that, and I'm trying to narrow the margin for error on the bowler's side.
"My movement is a bit more precise and accurate as well.
"It has given me the ability to know what their bowlers do with the ball.
"It has definitely helped me against their skilful bowlers and has given me a clue on what they do.
"The reason we have this type of cricket where we play against the second team of other countries is that it is going to be a better standard that what we potentially face in the County Championship.
"In the Championship you talk about slightly slower bowling whereas on this wicket it has had more pace and bounce. It is different challenges.
"I like the idea we get the opportunity to play in these because if you are then exposed to Test cricket then it will be faster."
Whether Tribe is on the fast track to an England cap remains to be seen, but the already much-travelled young player continues to do all he can to make his dream a reality.
Peter Fury during a press conference at The Pelligon in Canary Wharf, London. Picture date: Tuesday April 14, 2026. (Photo by Ben Whitley/PA Images via Getty Images) | PA Images via Getty Images
Immediately following Oleksandr Usyk’s 11 round stoppage of kickboxer Rico Verhoeven last night, trainer Peter Fury gave his immediate reaction to what transpired in the ring, particularly with Rico performing much better against Usyk than anyone anticipated.
“I’m very proud of him,” Fury said. “It was nice what Turki Alalshikh said about it. As soon as it was stopped, ‘I want a rematch.’ That’s what he seen so, you know, it was an incredible event and we thank [Alalshikh] and Usyk for giving Rico a chance. And Usyk said to me, he said ‘Peter, I know Rico, I know what he’s about and I know this is going to be a hard fight.’ He knows, he’s trained for a hard fight.
“But let’s not take anything away from Oleksandr Usyk because Rico is a monster. He’s a serious, serious fighter, and to do what he’s done and take them shots, Usyk, and ride the storm and come back, it is incredible credit as well.
“The only thing that’s let Rico down tonight is ring experience, that’s it. It’s a new sport for him. He had a six month training camp to get that performance. But when he first started there was no footwork, he was on the back leg, chin in the air — you can imagine, ‘cause he’s a kickboxer. So to do what he’s done, that transformation, is incredible. It’s amazing.”
“Yeah, he could’ve let it go. He should’ve let it go because as soon as they’d have put him back together again the round was over. There was like two seconds left, so he should’ve been allowed, he’s on his feet, come back to the corner, refresh him up, give him instructions, and we’ll never know what [could’ve] happened. Usyk could’ve stopped him in the 12th round, or he could’ve revived and got on with it, we could’ve went to the scorecards. We’ll never know now, will we.”
June 1 is eight days away. An A.J. Brown trade is as little as nine days away.
As of June 2, the Eagles can trade Brown and spread the dead-money charge over two years. Most believe it's just a matter of time before the trade happens. Most believe Brown will be traded to the Patriots.
Watch the video attached to this post. Patriots safety Kevin Byard and receiver Romeo Doubs recently spoke openly about the arrival of Brown as if it's a done deal.
It's entirely possible that the deal is unofficially done. Trade terms agreed to, and both teams keeping their mouths shut until Brown passes a physical and both teams communicate the terms of the transaction to the league office.
The Maxx Crosby fiasco from March was a lesson to all teams about not letting the cart get in front of the horse. Say nothing until the deal is official.
Could another team swoop in with a better offer? If the Patriots and Eagles have unofficially worked out a deal, and if both sides honor a transaction that remains unofficial until it becomes official, it's too late for that.
Some are still suggesting the Rams could make a run at Brown. That ship sailed in March, when the Rams decided not to proceed based on the available medical information — and when the Rams allowed $24 million in 2026 compensation for receiver Davante Adams to become fully guaranteed.
If the Rams had done the deal, they would have traded Adams. It's not impossible for someone else to enter the A.J. fray, especially if the Chiefs are suddenly having misgivings about whether Rashee Rice can be trusted after his recent probation violation.
For now, all signs are still pointing to Brown becoming a Patriot as soon as June 2.
How to watch Liverpool vs Brentford match today – Live TV and streaming details
How to Watch Liverpool vs Brentford as Emotional Anfield Farewell Awaits
Liverpool close the Premier League season with an afternoon charged by emotion, reflection and uncertainty as Brentford arrive at Anfield with European ambitions still flickering. For supporters wondering how to watch Liverpool vs Brentford, the final-day fixture carries far more than routine end-of-season significance.
There is a sense of transition around Merseyside. Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson are both expected to bid farewell to the Anfield crowd after glittering careers that helped shape one of Liverpool’s modern golden eras. Salah leaves behind astonishing numbers, with 257 goals and 122 assists in 441 appearances across all competitions, while Robertson departs having lifted every major honour available during his time at the club.
Original source reporting from The Standard revealed that supporters are preparing for an emotional send-off as Liverpool attempt to finish a disappointing campaign with dignity and purpose.
Liverpool Face Emotional Afternoon at Anfield
Football rarely pauses for sentiment, but this occasion feels different. Even after a frustrating title defence and inconsistent performances across multiple competitions, Anfield is expected to deliver a fitting backdrop for two players who transformed Liverpool under pressure and expectation.
Salah’s influence stretched far beyond goals. He became the heartbeat of Liverpool’s attacking identity, capable of deciding matches in moments that bordered on inevitability. Robertson, meanwhile, embodied relentless energy and aggression down the left flank, setting standards that became synonymous with Liverpool’s rise back to domestic and European prominence.
Ahead of the match, reports highlighted the significance of the occasion for supporters. One line stood out naturally from the original source: “Salah has enjoyed a highly decorated nine years on Merseyside.”
That sentence barely scratches the surface of what he represented. From Champions League triumphs to Premier League glory, Salah became one of the defining footballers of his generation in English football.
Brentford, though, will have little interest in the emotional narrative. Thomas Frank’s side still have outside hopes of European qualification and arrive with genuine motivation. Their season has again demonstrated smart recruitment, tactical discipline and resilience against clubs with far greater financial muscle.
How to Watch Liverpool vs Brentford Live
Supporters searching for details on how to watch Liverpool vs Brentford in the UK will be able to follow the match live on Sky Sports+.
Coverage begins at 3pm BST as part of Sky Sports’ extensive final-day Premier League schedule, with all ten fixtures broadcast simultaneously across various channels. Subscribers can also stream the game through the Sky Go app, offering mobile and desktop access throughout the afternoon.
For fans unable to watch live, match updates and minute-by-minute coverage will be widely available online through live blogs and social media channels.
Need a VPN to watch the match? Our preferred VPN to watch UK TV from anywhere is LibertyShield.com – they offer a 48 hour no-obligation free trial and have apps or all popular devices including Mac, Windows, FireTV, iPhone/iPad and Android.
Anfield is expected to produce a powerful atmosphere from well before kick-off, particularly once the teams emerge from the tunnel. Final home matches often carry emotion, but few involve departures with this level of significance.
Brentford Chase Historic European Dream
While Liverpool’s narrative centres around farewells and reflection, Brentford arrive fuelled by opportunity.
European qualification would represent another extraordinary chapter in the club’s remarkable rise. Brentford have already earned admiration across the Premier League for their progressive recruitment model and fearless football, but continental qualification would elevate this period into club folklore.
The original source noted that Brentford’s hopes depend not only on victory at Anfield but also results elsewhere, including fixtures at the Stadium of Light and the Amex Community Stadium.
That complexity changes little for Thomas Frank’s players. Their task is brutally simple. Win first, then hope.
Liverpool’s vulnerability this season means Brentford will believe chances will emerge. Defensive inconsistency and a lack of control in midfield have undermined Liverpool repeatedly throughout the campaign. Even so, Anfield on an emotional afternoon rarely offers a straightforward environment for visiting teams.
Final-Day Atmosphere Could Shape Result
Premier League final days often drift towards chaos. Nerves, sentiment and unpredictability can overwhelm tactical planning. This fixture feels perfectly positioned for exactly that sort of drama.
Liverpool will want to deliver a performance worthy of the occasion. The supporters will demand intensity from the opening whistle, particularly for players leaving the club after years of service and success.
Brentford, meanwhile, are unlikely to retreat into caution. Frank’s side play with courage and intelligence, pressing aggressively and attacking quickly when transitions appear.
There may be tactical intrigue beneath the emotion, but this feels like one of those football afternoons driven more by atmosphere than systems or formations.
For neutrals, it offers compelling viewing. For Liverpool supporters, it represents the closing chapter of an era. For Brentford, it could become the most significant afternoon in the club’s Premier League history.
Whatever unfolds, the demand around how to watch Liverpool vs Brentford reflects the scale of the occasion.
Napoli join Manchester United and Bayern Munich in race for Parma goalkeeper Suzuki
Zion Suzuki has emerged as one of the most sought-after goalkeepers in European football following an impressive season at Parma, with Napoli, Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Galatasaray all understood to be monitoring the Japanese international.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, via TuttoMercatoWeb, Napoli are the most concrete Italian suitor, while the interest from United and Bayern underlines the scale of attention Suzuki has attracted after playing a key role in Parma’s comfortable Serie A survival under Carlos Cuesta.
The 23-year-old was not included in the starting lineup for Sunday’s final day fixture against Sassuolo.
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Giovanni Manna of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Parma determined not to sell Suzuki cheaply as Napoli join list of suitors
No formal negotiations are underway and no decisions have been made, but the sense within the club is that Suzuki’s future could well lie away from the Tardini.
Parma owner Kyle Krause is aware of the player’s value and has no intention of allowing a cut-price exit.
It has not been a straightforward season for Suzuki, who went through a difficult period earlier in the campaign dealing with injury and inconsistent form.
His recovery in the second half of the season, including a remarkable performance saving four penalties in a single match, is what reignited interest from clubs across Europe and drew widespread attention to his abilities.
For Napoli, Suzuki would represent a long-term option in goal as the club begins planning for life after the current goalkeeping setup.
West Ham seeking £80m for Manchester United target Mateus Fernandes
West Ham United have placed a hefty £80m valuation on breakout midfielder Mateus Fernandes as Manchester United step up their pursuit ahead of the summer transfer window. The 21-year-old Portuguese midfielder has emerged as a primary target for the Red Devils, who are eager to overhaul their midfield under head coach Michael Carrick.
Fernandes has been a rare bright spot in an otherwise gruelling Premier League campaign for the Hammers. Having arrived from Southampton last summer in a deal worth around £40m, the youngster has adapted seamlessly to top-flight life. Renowned for his combative work rate, press resistance, and intelligent passing, the box-to-box midfielder has quickly established himself as one of the league’s most coveted assets.
His impressive displays have drawn praise from pundits and attracted interest from European heavyweights, including Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, and Arsenal.
However, Manchester United have firmly placed themselves in the driving seat. The Red Devils are plotting a major midfield reshuffle, with Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte set to depart, and view Fernandes as a long-term cornerstone. Significantly, Fernandes is understood to be extremely keen on a move to Old Trafford and is known to idolise United captain Bruno Fernandes.
While West Ham are publicly holding out for an £80m package, their leverage in negotiations is precarious as they remain locked in a fierce relegation battle.
Should the Hammers drop to the Championship, they may be forced to raise over £100m in player sales to stabilise their finances—a reality their rivals are poised to exploit.
Serie A | Parma vs Sassuolo: Official line-ups and live updates
Parma host Sassuolo at the Stadio Ennio Tardini this afternoon, as both sides hunt a win that could give them an extra place in the league table, even though both sides have nothing left to play for but pride.
It kicks off at 14.00 UK time (15.00 CEST).
Parma have had a solid season under former Arsenal coach Carlos Cuesta, who joined from the Gunners last summer to become the youngest head coach of the modern Serie A era.
Their season has been marked by a defensive resilience and expertise from set pieces – mirroring that of Cuesta’s former club.
Sassuolo, meanwhile, can move into the top half of the table with a win today, if Udinese fall to defeat against Napoli.
The Neroverdi have impressed under Fabio Grosso, although the coach looks set to feature in the merry-go-round as a number of Serie A clubs prepare to change technicians over the summer.
This local derby sees both teams in celebratory mood after securing comfortable mid-table safety, but also with decimated squads for this final round.
The hosts are without Zion Suzuki, Nesta Elphege, Adrian Bernabé, Gaetano Oristanio, Gabriel Strefezza, Enrico Delprato, Benja Cremaschi, Nahuel Estevez, Filippo Rinaldi, Matija Frigan and Jacob Ondrejka.
The Neroverdi, meanwhile, are missing Sebastian Walukiewicz, Aster Vranckx, Daniel Boloca, Filippo Romagna, Fali Candé and Darryl Bakola.
GENOA, ITALY – APRIL 12: Ismael Koné of Sassuolo (2nd from left) celebrates with his team-mates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on April 12, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Travis Kelce came to Rocket Arena hoping to watch his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers climb back into the Eastern Conference Finals. Instead, he watched the New York Knicks move one win away from the NBA Finals.
The Cavaliers suffered a brutal 121-108 loss Saturday night in Game 3, falling into a nearly impossible 3-0 series deficit despite a desperate atmosphere inside the building. Kelce attended the game courtside alongside Taylor Swift, and cameras frequently showed the Kansas City Chiefs superstar reacting emotionally as Cleveland struggled to slow down New York’s offense.
But after the final buzzer, Kelce grabbed attention for a different reason. Rather than quickly leaving the floor following the crushing defeat, Kelce stayed courtside and shared several respectful postgame moments with Knicks players. In a video shared by the NBA, Kelce could be seen shaking hands and talking with players including Jordan Clarkson, Landry Shamet and Miles McBride.
Even after watching his favorite team fall apart late, Kelce still made sure to give the Knicks credit.
Postgame scenes in Cleveland!
Travis Kelce, John Starks and Richard Jefferson congratulate the Knicks for taking a 3-0 series lead in the NBA Conference Finals presented by @Google 👀
Travis Kelce experienced a nightmare night as a Cavaliers fan
The night started with energy and optimism inside Rocket Arena. Cleveland desperately needed a response after dropping the first two games of the series in New York, and the crowd treated Game 3 like a must-win situation from the opening tip.
Instead, the Knicks slowly took control behind another dominant performance from Jalen Brunson, who scored 30 points and repeatedly delivered in big moments. OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges piled on as well, combining for 43 points while helping silence Cleveland’s crowd throughout the second half.
By the fourth quarter, cameras caught Kelce looking visibly frustrated as the reality of the series started setting in. For Cavaliers fans, it felt like watching the season slip away in real time.
The Cavaliers now face one of the toughest situations in sports. No team in NBA history has ever come back from a 3-0 playoff deficit, leaving Cleveland one loss away from elimination heading into Monday’s Game 4.
Meanwhile, the Knicks suddenly sit on the verge of their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999. That made Kelce’s postgame interaction stand out even more online. Despite the disappointment, he showed respect toward a Knicks team that has completely controlled the series.
It was a classy response during a night that could not have gone much worse for Cleveland fans.
The Lions had their 2026 offseason team workouts in late-April and early-May. It was our first chance to see some returning Lions who may have had injuries last season. Who was seen working out and who was not and what does it tell us?
November 2025 - Left fibula fracture caused 6 missed games but able to return for final 3 games of season.
An isolated fibula fracture (no sig ligament damage, high ankle sprain, other fracture) could be back in ~8wks. Chris Godwin came back this year in 7wks.
What results do PBKS need from MI vs RR and KKR vs DC to qualify for IPL 2026 playoffs?
Punjab Kings finally ended their six-match losing streak in the second half of the IPL 2026 season on Saturday as they comfortably thrashed Lucknow Super Giants by 7 wickets in their final league game at the Ekana Stadium.
Captain Shreyas Iyer delivered with his bat when it mattered the most for his team as he scored an unbeaten century to guide his team to an important win and kept PBKS's hopes alive in the playoffs race.
With the victory, PBKS reached 15 points at the end of the league stage and they are currently placed at the fourth position on the league table.
However, their playoff berth is still not confirmed as it will depend on the result of the Mumbai Indians vs Rajasthan Royals match in Mumbai and Kolkata Knight Riders vs Delhi Capitals tie in Kolkata on the final matchday on May 24.
For PBKS to qualify for the playoffs:
RR must lose their final game against MI at Wankhede Stadium, as RR's victory will take them to 16 points and confirm their progress to the playoffs.
After the RR game, if they lose, PBKS will keep their eyes on the KKR game, where they will hope that the three-time champions do not go past their net run rate, even if they win against DC.
For KKR to qualify for the playoffs, they will have to beat DC by 77 runs if they score 200, or they will have to win the match within the 13th over (12 to 12.4 overs) if they are chasing 180 runs.
The Cricket News Opinion: A nail-biting final league stage matchday on the cards in IPL 2026
The IPL 2026 league stage has gone down to the wire as three teams are still in the hunt for a final playoff spot, even on the final matchday of the league stage.
PBKS's win over LSG has opened up the playoffs race wide open and the final matchday promises to be a nail-biting affair. However, RR could end the suspense after the first match of the double-header, if they beat MI, as then KKR's clash against DC would be a formality.
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For KKR, though, it is a do-or-die game, as they have to win and maintain a better run rate than PBKS to qualify for the last ISL playoff spot.
In this article, The Sporting News takes you through all the details related to how and where to watch the IPL 2026 match between Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals.
KKR vs DC IPL 2026: Win probability and toss result
After six overs, KKR are 55/1
A steady start from KKR, notching up 55 runs in the powerplay. They have lost Allen, but Rahane and Pandey are going strong.
After 20 overs, DC are 203/5
DC have just got past the 200-mark. KKR will be happy with their efforts. Saurav Dubey was in stellar form, giving just 28 runs and picking up two wickets.
After 16 overs, DC are 150/3
KKR have pulled back nicely since the departure of KL Rahul for 60. Now, they would like to restrict DC to under 200.
After 11 overs, DC are 108/2
DC are going steady and happen to be on course for another 200+ total. A flat deck, and KL Rahul is relishing it. Narine has been expensive today, conceding 38 in his four overs.
After six overs, DC are 53/1
DC have got off to a decent start. They have lost the wicket of Abhishek Porel, but KL Rahul is going strong.
May 24—It was almost 1 a.m. when the Lewis-Clark State Warriors walked into their locker room, having lost by eight runs to the eighth-seeded Tennessee Wesleyan Bulldogs in an Avista NAIA World Series opening game that started on Friday but ended early Saturday
They didn't talk about it.
Instead, LC State coach Jeremiah Robbins, a veteran of six World Series in the last decade, gave his team a choice.
"'Move on right now or ... cry about this game,'" Robbins said he told his team. "They all said, 'We're moving on right now.' I said, 'Right on, let's go.' I sent them home. That was all that there is to say. When you get into this side of the bracket, there's no talking; it's about your actions, your mentality ...
"And obviously they listened."
It started with senior starting pitcher Mason Goodson firing a quick 1-2-3 first inning, continued with left fielder Brandon Nguyen blasting a leadoff home run to spark a nine-run first inning and ended with a 12-1 LC State victory in seven-inning mercy rule over the second-seeded Georgia Gwinnett Grizzlies on Saturday.
A Harris Field crowd of 3,133 headed for the exits around 9 p.m. — much earlier than the post-midnight departure the night before.
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"Just a heart-to-heart. (Robbins) didn't say much," Goodson said of the team's late-night rally. "We got our backs to a wall, he's like, 'You guys better play like you mean it.' So it's nothing new. We always feel the pressure. We got our boys rolling, so we're not scared."
LC State will play top-seeded Taylor (Ind.) at 11 a.m. Monday.
Georgia Gwinnett's season is done.
Nine-run first
Nguyen has been the Warriors' leadoff man for most of the season. Leadoff home runs like the one he slapped on Saturday are precisely why.
We knew we were going, and that's exactly what happened," second baseman Izzy Madariaga said. "One through nine, we just raked it."
From there, the Warriors were off to the races, working their way through the order and then some.
Jackson Jaha followed up Nguyen's solo shot with a double straight to the center-field wall. Soon after, Jackson Reed cranked a two-run double to make it 3-0 and then scored on a GGU error.
Already leading 4-0, GGU pitcher Gavin LeBlanc's day was done after just a third of an inning.
The Warriors kept the temperature up, leading 5-0 after a full turn through the order just in time for Nguyen to deliver another huge hit as he blasted a two-run triple to the center-field wall.
Jaha hit Nguyen home right after and Madariaga smacked his own center field-bound extra-base hit to raise the Warrior lead to 9-0.
Those straightaway center blasts have been something the Warriors have shied away from, Robbins said.
That changed Saturday with the Warriors' firm approach.
"When you're putting a barrel on the ball straight away, your hitters are locked in, and we stayed with the approach, and we're able to get to their pen."
Redemption
LC State second baseman Izzy Madariaga found himself on the end of a nightmare scenario Friday night — an error on a routine grounder that led to a run scored and preceded a two-run home run that sent the game into blowout territory.
Baseball, like life, has an almost karmic rhythm, an arc toward justice, if you will.
So, on the very first pitch of Saturday's game, Madariaga gloved a grounder and threw it over to first base for a lightning-quick first out.
That was just the beginning.
In the top of the fifth, Jackson Legg hit a chopper Madariaga's way with one out and one on first.
The senior second baseman snagged the ball, tagged Georgia Gwinnett's Grant Pohlman and slung the ball to Sam Weber at first for the double play.
"I saw Izzy come up and attack it, and I only thought we were going to get one, and it was just a true surprise that he got two," Goodson said. "And it was a hell of a play, honestly, the best play I might have seen."
Madariaga wasn't finished with his redemption tour either, answering GGU's lone solo home run with a solo shot of his own that sparked a three-run bottom of the sixth.
"We've been punched before, and we know how to punch back," Madariaga said. "So a loss isn't going to affect us, and (Robbins) always tells us to be where our feet are, and that's exactly what we did today."
Near perfection
Goodson began the year in the bullpen after getting hit around in fall ball.
Fall was a long time ago, though, and since then, Goodson has been brilliant, with a fifth-best 1.82 ERA entering the Series.
He proved exactly what he was capable of Saturday, using 89 pitches to log a complete seven-inning game with one run allowed on three hits.
He held an otherwise stout Grizzlies lineup that was among the best in the NAIA to minimal damage.
"They're a good swinging team, like I've seen the statistics and all that," Goodson said. "But that's something you don't got to think about. As a ball player, you just go out there and you play your game, you do whatever you do, and see what happens after that."
Goodson struck out six, walked three and took advantage of several double plays to send the Grizzlies to the bus when they created a bit of traffic.
"You see what happens for a pitcher when there's a nine up there," Robbins said. "They can nestle in, they can miss on a few pitches, they don't have to pitch so fine, and that's what happened."
The blood rounds
After beating the two seed, the third-seeded Warriors will need to beat the top-seeded Taylor Trojans.
Robbins said it's arguably easier to motivate a one-loss team than it is to motivate an undefeated team in the Series.
"The choices that you get to make, they're minuscule; either you win or you go home, so it makes it pretty easy, actually," Robbins said. "They know what this means."
Georgia Gwinnett 000 001 0— 1 3 1
Lewis-Clark State 900 003 x—12 14 0
LeBlanc, Smith (1), Cothran (4), Sells (6) and Pohlman; Goodson and Westerlund.
Lewis-Clark State starter MASON GOODSON fired seven one-run innings in a mercy-rule
complete game to stave off Georgia Gwinnett's highly ranked offense. Goodson struck out six and induced a number of key double plays.
The Warriors' senior second baseman IZZY MADARIAGA turned an eye-popping double play in the top of the fifth, tagging out a runner and gunning the ball to first base. Then clubbed a leadoff home run in the top of the sixth to spark a three-run frame.
LC State's 1-2 punch of BRANDON NGUEYN and JACKSON JAHA combined for a cycle in the first inning alone, with Nguyen smacking a leadoff home run and a two-run triple and Jaha doubling and singling to constitute a tone-setting sensation in the Warriors' nine-run first frame.
QUOTE OF NOTE
"When you get into this side of the bracket, there's no talking; it's about your actions, your mentality. ... And obviously they listened." — Lewis-Clark State coach Jeremiah Robbins on what it takes to advance in Series elimination games — what he calls the "blood rounds."
The Wankhede Stadium has been the home to the five-time champions of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Mumbai Indians, since the inaugural edition in 2008.
One of the most iconic stadiums in India, as it hosted the memorable 2011 World Cup final, which India won, the Wankhede Stadium has provided fans plenty of entertainment over the years.
What is the highest successful run chase at Wankhede Stadium in IPL?
Sunrisers Hyderabad hold the record of registering the highest successful run chase at the Wankhede Stadium. In the current 2026 edition, MI scored 243 runs in their first innings, with SRh chasing down the target in 18.4 overs.
Patience is always required when driving to the Indianapolis 500. Maybe more so than usual this year.
With a sold-out crowd and ever-evolving traffic patterns near Indianapolis Motor Speedway, plenty of fans found familiar routes blocked and parking lots already full or exceptionally long lines.
Some felt the need to vent on social media
Reaction to traffic, parking around Indianapolis Motor Speedway for Indy 500
It’s here! Race Day.
Here’s the sch and traffic map to help you get in.
6 am: Gates Open 9 am: Cars to Pit Road 9:20 am: Engine Warmup 1 9:30 am: Red Carpet 10:15 am: Engine Warmup 2 10:30 am: Cars to Grid 10:37 am: Past Winners Lap 10:59 am: Historic Cars Lap 11:35 am:… pic.twitter.com/JPEmEvdY6G
We went up there to check it out… cars parked in North 40 from 2-5am and they’re still clearing those in before they let anyone else into the line - there was 100 cars or so left 15 mins ago
I also want to second my curiosity with the parking situation? Trying to get into LOT 1C (we've parked here the last 2 years and never had issues) but we've been in stand still traffic for 90 minutes now, little to no movement? Any updates? @IMS#Indy500https://t.co/FZBvvyVRQy
That's stopped traffic on W. 10th St. over I-465. The grind stretches all the way into Speedway to Lynhurst Dr. and then some. Also, there's a line of traffic about a half a mile long from NB-465 to W. 10th St.
Alright @IMS@jdouglas4 this is getting out of hand. Got a feeling T3 front row parking is one of if not the most pricey parking options. No one directing had a clue where to send you. Last yr I thought a one-off, now it’s a trend. Easy fix, folks directing gotta know what’s up.
Don't be a knucklehead. Follow the traffic patterns and listen to the volunteers in the lot. At 0445, I already saw 3 people making their own parking spots and multiple not following traffic pattern #indy500https://t.co/xZgL5HhZ76
United set for massive cash injection after Carrick performs miracle
Manchester United’s third-placed finish in the Premier League is set to hand them a significant financial boost ahead of a crucial summer. The Red Devils were staring at oblivion midway through the season following the departure of former head coach Ruben Amorim.
The Portuguese failed to build on an impressive summer of 2025, during which INEOS invested wisely in the attack and goalkeeping departments. While the performances were significantly better than the previous season, results did not improve, prompting United to let Amorim go at the beginning of January.
The Red Devils appeared to be lagging behind in the top-four race, but Michael Carrick’s arrival changed everything. Tasked with getting the season back on track and pushing for a top-four finish, the Englishman secured his objectives well before the end of the campaign.
United have now finished third in the Premier League with one game left in the season, thanks to a run of 11 wins and three draws in 16 games under Carrick. With a place in next season’s Champions League also secured, an update has now emerged on how much the Red Devils will earn from their third-placed finish in the league.
United set to pocket £48.6m
According to the Manchester Evening News, United are likely to pocket £48.6 million thanks to their league position this season. The report states: “Arsenal will be entitled to the largest slice of the prize money pot following their first league title since 2004.”
“This is anticipated to amount to roughly £54m, while runners-up City are set to receive approximately £51.3m, while United’s share is anticipated to be roughly £48.6m.”
The report points out that Wolverhampton Wanderers, who are set to finish at the bottom of the table, are likely to earn around £2.7m, the lowest of the 20 teams.
Estimated Premier League Prize Money: 2025/26 Season
How much did clubs earn last season?
The report goes on to add that the sum allocated to each position depends on many factors and can change annually. It states: “The sum allocated per position varies annually and can be affected by inflation and other factors.”
“Last season’s amount stood between £2.6million and £2.7m, which represented what bottom side Southampton collected simply for competing, alongside approximately £100m more in various payments.”
“Approximately £90m of that figure comprised international and domestic broadcast revenue, which is distributed equally among all 20 clubs. Furthermore, each side also pocketed £7.9m from central commercial revenue streams, a sum expected to remain broadly similar this season.”
The report also points out that bigger clubs secure larger portion of the broadcast revenue due to their worldwide appeal, adding: “Clubs then collect merit payments determined by their final league position, alongside facility fees calculated on how frequently their matches were broadcast throughout the campaign.”
“Unsurprisingly, several of the larger clubs command a greater portion of this fund, owing to their appeal to broadcasters.”
Final Thoughts
A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person suggests that United could earn as much as £70 million from their participation in the Champions League. With INEOS preparing for further investments in the squad, bringing in Carrick in January this year is once again proving to be a masterstroke.
The two sides, among the surprise packages of the season, have secured survival with complete peace of mind. The Neroverdi will try to snatch 10th place from Udinese, while the Ducali can overtake Torino in 12th.
Click on the match card above to follow the live commentary
There are baseball fans who politely clap through adversity. Then there was Livvy Dunne on Saturday night. As soon as George Springer crushed a leadoff home run off Paul Skenes during the Pittsburgh Pirates matchup against the Toronto Blue Jays, cameras immediately caught Dunne’s brutally honest reaction from the stands.
“F—!”
Honestly, plenty of Pirates fans probably yelled the exact same thing. The moment quickly exploded online because Dunne’s reaction did not look staged, filtered or celebrity-polished. It looked exactly like someone watching their boyfriend give up a homer on the third pitch of the game in real time. And baseball fans absolutely loved it.
Livvy Dunne accidentally became the most relatable Pirates fan alive
The funniest part of the viral moment was how quickly fans started treating Dunne like a lifelong baseball diehard. Many of the comments became quite popular throughout the day on social media.
Others were impressed by how emotionally invested Dunne looked throughout the entire sequence. Instead of the typical celebrity cutaway where someone barely reacts, Dunne looked genuinely devastated by the crack of Springer’s bat. For Pirates fans, the reaction may have been painfully familiar.
Even Livvy Dunne later realized the moment was hilarious
Dunne eventually leaned fully into the viral attention afterward. She reposted the clip to Instagram and jokingly captioned it, “Me just trying to listen to meditation music.”
That somehow made the entire thing even funnier. The combination of immediate panic, accidental live-TV comedy and self-awareness afterward turned the clip into one of the more entertaining MLB moments of the weekend.
Meanwhile, Skenes endured one of his rougher outings of the season, allowing four runs on nine hits in Pittsburgh’s 5-2 loss. It also marked the second consecutive shaky start for the reigning NL Cy Young winner. The Pirates dropped to 26-26 on the season.
Still, the internet spent almost as much time talking about Dunne’s reaction as the actual game itself. Which probably says everything about how viral the moment became.
24-year-old American tennis player Caty McNally had never won a main draw singles match at the French Open until May 24, 2026.
Sidelined by injuries in recent years, McNally faced Australian Ajla Tomljanovic in the first round. In the blistering heat and slippery red clay, McNally, who never lost to Tomljanovic in two previous meetings fell behind a set and a break.
Gaining her confidence and finding her way with a Superman-like wardrobe change between the second and third set, McNally got over the finish line in over 2 1/2 hours.
McNally is one of 19 American women in the 2026 Roland Garros main draw. That is the most in over twenty years. She is the first American to advance to the second round.
The path becomes harder with Belinda Bencic as her next opponent.
Mar 22, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Caty McNally (USA) hits a volley against Aryna Sabalenka (not pictured) on day six of the 2026 Miami Open at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
McNally is also playing doubles with Australian Storm Hunter.
Day 1 is beginning with unusual and oppressive heat, near 80 degrees. It is also very sunny which poses a glare problem for players serving and playing in the wide open outer courts.
In addition to Bencic, a potential French Open contender, Marta Kostyuk, the Madrid Open champion, won her first round match. She broke down after the match confessing that her parents narrowly missed a missile attack in Ukraine today.
Another American in action today with an intriguing first round match is Hailey Baptiste who faces 2021 French Open champion Barbora Krejcikova.
Watch Roland Garros matches on TNT Sports, the US broadcaster for the French Open. Tennis Channel has some outer court live match coverage.
The NFL offseason may be in the workout phase, but teams still are evaluating their rosters. Every day and week, organizations identify areas they may need to address. Some teams, like the Los Angeles Chargers, already have significant depth at the skill positions. That does not mean they have stopped considering additional moves.
If there’s one thing fans love more than watching their teams win, it’s watching them win with a familiar face back in the fold. The Chargers reportedly are leaving the door open for a franchise legend to return to Los Angeles.
After a surprisingly productive 2025 season, Keenan Allen may not be finished with his second stint alongside his original team.
Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz has not ruled out Allen’s return. Given Allen’s impact in a limited role last season, the Chargers’ continued interest makes sense. The biggest question may be whether the interest is mutual.
Jan 11, 2026; Foxborough, MA, USA; Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen (13) and teammates react in the last seconds of the game against the New England Patriots in an AFC Wild Card Round game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
When asked about a possible reunion during Thursday’s Up & Adams, Hortiz acknowledged that a return remains on the table. “Right now we’re in a spot where we’re looking at the roster and letting these young guys get a chance, but I’ve had some communication with Keenan’s representation,” he said.
“We talk. Right now, our guys that we have here, we’re letting them grow and develop, but nothing but love for Keenan. That door is not closed,” Hortiz said.
Allen may recognize that his role in the offense likely would remain limited despite his unexpectedly strong 2025 campaign. He recorded 777 receiving yards and four touchdowns across 17 games with the Chargers.
Dec 8, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen (13) celebrates after defeating the Philadelphia Eagles at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
The reunion helped fuel a playoff run that ended in New England. Since then, the Chargers have strengthened the interior of their offensive line, retained both starting tackles, and recently added David Njoku.
All signs point to an offense capable of putting up points in a hurry. Allen’s role likely would mirror the WR3 role he filled last season. The Chargers also hope Tre Harris takes a significant step forward while rookie Brenen Thompson emerges as a contributor.
Allen remains a free agent, and his current market remains unclear. Could he run it back for one more season in pursuit of a Super Bowl in Los Angeles?
🎥 Is Urbig turning into a Neuer clone? These images are eerie!
There is no question that Jonas Urbig is a highly talented young goalkeeper. In the long term, he is expected to follow in Manuel Neuer’s footsteps at FC Bayern. One day, the youngster could also succeed the 40-year-old in the German national team.
But the two goalkeepers do not only share certain similarities on the pitch. Urbig also seems to have picked up quite a bit from Neuer in front of the camera and in TV interviews. His attitude and communication style are noticeably reminiscent of the five-time World Goalkeeper of the Year.
Neuer himself also seems interested in playing a part in shaping his successor. After the DFB-Pokal final win against VfB Stuttgart, which he had missed due to injury, the veteran grabbed his teammate and took him on a lap of honor.
That very lap then produced quite a few entertaining images. Because apparently Neuer is not only showing the 23-year-old how to dive or how to play with the ball at his feet.
No, the Neuer school of goalkeeping also teaches a young keeper how to wave properly. I guess that’s what they mean by “learning from the best”...
FOOTBALL
Final Premier League matchday with 10 matches at 1500, including Tottenham v Everton, West Ham v Leeds, Crystal Palace v Arsenal and Manchester City v Aston Villa
- Final La Liga season match Villarreal v Atletico Madrid at 1900
- Final seven Serie A season matches, including Napoli v Udinese at 1600 and Torino v Juventus at 1845
- Neuer fit for Cup title jig but slow World Cup preps start expected, moved
- Wolfsburg's Hecking: 'We wanted this final. Now we are playing it', moved
- Kane's fitting finale as Bayern end high-scoring season in style, moved
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TENNIS
- French Open, first round since 0900
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MOTORSPORT
Canadian Formula One Grand Prix at 2000, with Mercedes driver George Russell on pole
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CYCLING
Giro d'Italia, stage 15 over 157km from Voghera to Milan, since 1155
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GYMNASTICS
European Gymnastics follows FIG and lifts Russia, Belarus sanctions, moved
Incoming Real Madrid manager set to draw the same salary as Xabi Alonso
Jose Mourinho’s arrival at Real Madrid is now a formality, with the only remaining question being when the appointment will be made official.
Alvaro Arbeloa has already confirmed his departure, and Florentino Perez is once again turning to his Special One to restore order at the Bernabeu after two difficult seasons.
Mourinho’s salary and compensation fee
According to Diario SPORT, Mourinho is set to earn around €6 million net per season at Real Madrid, a figure almost identical to what the club offered Xabi Alonso just a season ago.
Mourinho to earn the same salary as Xabi Alonso. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
To bring the Portuguese coach to Madrid, Real Madrid will also need to pay Benfica his exit clause, which stands at €7 million.
That is exactly half of what it cost to sign Alonso from Bayer Leverkusen last summer, making it a comparatively straightforward financial operation.
Timing complicated by elections
The announcement had initially been planned for Sunday or Monday at the latest, with a formal presentation to follow a few days later.
Can Mourinho fix Real Madrid’s woes? (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Real Madrid are also studying who will cover Mourinho’s release clause payment, with fiscal considerations and the uncertainty around the electoral process both factoring into that decision.
Should Florentino Perez win the election, as widely expected, the path will be clear for Mourinho’s appointment to be confirmed swiftly.
The Whites are ready to pay, the salary is agreed in principle, and the coach is willing. All that remains is the formality of the process playing out.
Jake Paul has criticised the pacing of Matchroom and Ring Magazine events after Saturday’s high-profile card at the Pyramids of Giza.
The setting was spectacular, with Oleksandr Usyk headlining against Rico Verhoeven in one of the most eye-catching boxing spectacles of the year.
Yet Paul, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions, was not convinced the broadcast matched the occasion, as he took aim at the downtime between fights.
Jake Paul says Matchroom and Ring events are giving fans too much talking
Photo by Mark Robinson/Getty Images
Last Saturday, Paul wrote on X: “Today is a prime example of why people hate these Matchroom-Ring events or whoever is doing it. So much talking and time in between events.
“How have these peeps been doing it for so long and not realized that running back to back fights is what fans want? These British accents talking about this and that bro come on….”
He added: “I’ve been tuned in since 1pm and I still just here [hearing] Tony Bellew talking about what he once did. There’s a reason MVP is on top.”
The complaint was blunt, but it also matched MVP’s wider public stance. Nakisa Bidarian recently argued that mainstream athlete identity made MVP’s Netflix card more successful than the upcoming UFC Freedom 250, at the White House.
That makes Paul’s comment more than a swipe at a rival event. It was another attempt to frame MVP as a promotion built around pace and star power.
Whether fans accept that argument is another matter, but the YouTuber-turned-boxer clearly believes boxing broadcasts should move faster. For him, the Pyramids backdrop was not enough if the rhythm tested patience.
The card features a 10-round world title fight between El Paso's Stephanie Han and Albuquerque's Holly Holm for Han's WBA lightweight title. The Han vs. Holm fight will be a rematch of Han's technical decision win vs. Holm on Jan. 3 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The open workout will be at 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 27
Fighters will workout at Han's Martial Arts Gym at 6910 N. Mesa Space G. The workouts begin at 6 p.m. The event will feature Han, Holm, Amanda Serrano, Yokasta Valle, Lourdes Juarez, Desley Robinson, Cheyenne Hanson, and MVP CEO Nakisa Bidarian.
Han, Holm, Amanda Serrano, Cheyenne Hanson, Lourdes Juarez, Yokasta Valle, Desley Robinson, and Mary Spencer will be present.
The weigh-in will be at 6 p.m. Friday, May 29
Fighters will weigh-in for Saturday's fight card at the El Paso County Coliseum at 4100 E Paisano Dr, El Paso, TX 79905. The event will feature all fighters on the card.
Stephanie Han vs. Holly Holm prelim fight lineup, which begins at 1:30 p.m.
Stephanie Han (12-0, 3 Ko's) vs. Holly Holm (34-3-3, 9 KO's), 10 rounds, WBA lightweight title.
Raul Marquez to provide commentary for Han vs. Holm TV coverage
Marquez, a 1992 Olympic Boxing team member and former junior middleweight IBF world champion will provide expert commentary on the main event portion of the May 30 card.
Felix F. Chavez can be reached at fchavez@elpasotimes.com; @Fchavezeptimes on X
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - MAY 22: Max Muncy #13 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts after being hit by a pitch during the eighth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field on May 22, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) | Getty Images
During Friday’s loss against the Milwaukee Brewers, Max Muncy was plunked in the right wrist on an inside pitch from Aaron Ashby and was forced to leave the game. Although X-rays came back negative, he was out of the lineup on Saturday as Santiago Espinal got the start at third base.
Muncy will once again be out of the lineup for Sunday’s series finale in Milwaukee, and he will undergo an MRI on Monday once the team is back in Los Angeles, per Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register. Both Muncy and Dave Roberts are optimistic about his wrist, as his wrist guard caught some of the brunt from Ashby’s pitch.
“For me, I think we skipped the worst, because I’ve been hit in that spot before, and I’ve broken that spot before,” Muncy said after the game. “The biggest thing I always took with me from that was just the nauseous feeling that you get, and I didn’t quite have that tonight. So that’s why I’m feeling pretty optimistic about it.”
“I think we’re good right now,” Roberts said. “But once we get to Monday, get back home, I think we’ll see where we’re at to see if we need to get a CT scan on it.”
After allowing three runs in the first inning, Roki Sasaki completed four scoreless innings and earned the win on Saturday against the Brewers, his second winning decision in as many starts. Sasaki now has a sub-5.00 ERA for the first time since his early April, and Dave Roberts is seeing his gradual progression truly blossom, per Jackson Stone of MLB.com.
“It’s a sign of a young player really starting to grow up and understand his responsibility to the team,” Roberts said. “You need to take down innings and outs as a starting pitcher, and it’s not always going to be easy. That’s a learning moment that he could have folded, and last year it might have been tougher for him to get through that first inning, but he got through [it] and went four more scoreless.
“I’m really impressed because it seems like every outing he’s learning and getting better as a Major League pitcher.”
Teoscar Hernández has been hitting in the bottom third of the lineup routinely, but he’s been one of the Dodgers’ best hitters on this road trip, posting a .345 batting average with three home runs and 13 RBI. He was instrumental in Saturday’s 11-3 win over Milwaukee by going 3-4 with a home run and six RBI.
Dave Roberts has seen a great awareness of the zone from Hernández, as he has been more competitive in the box on the road trip, leading to drastically better results at the plate, notes Maddie Lee of the Los Angeles Times.
“For me personally, early on, I think that there was a couple of at-bats per night that he was just giving away. And now the last eight days, something like that, I don’t see him giving away any at-bats. And the production has reflected that.”
For RR, though, it is a do-or-die game, as they have to win to qualify for the last ISL playoff spot.
In this article, The Sporting News takes you through all the details related to how and where to watch the IPL 2026 match between Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals.
While the Penn State offense has gotten a lot of attention over the past couple of weeks, it is the Penn State defense that should be receiving more praise amidst its retooling efforts. With new defensive coordinator D'anton Lynn and D-line coach Ikaika Malloe, they have been focused on building with size up front. With key transfers such as Armstrong Nnodim and Dallas Vakalahi up front, they wish to maintain a size advantage over opposing O-lines. With new commits as well, including a brand new three-star prospect on board.
Aniti Paiva may only be a three-star, but he represents what the Nittany Lions could want out of a potential nose tackle. While playing a lot of snaps at the nose tackle position in high school, Lynn and Malloe could move him all around their four-man front, as someone who could look to shed blockers and open up holes for others to record big plays as well as getting tackles for loss himself. He could allow the better pass rushers along the line to do the dirty work.
Paiva is 6-3, 320 pounds, which is the image of Penn State's new look defense. Along with four-star recruit and 300-pounder Stanley Montgomery, they could become one of the most unheralded D-tackle tandems in the Big Ten. Knowing Matt Campbell and his recruiting philosophies, this may be exactly what he wants.
Cameron Brink continues proving she is one of the WNBA’s biggest stars both on and off the court. Before the Los Angeles Sparks earned one of their biggest wins of the season Saturday night against the Las Vegas Aces, Brink already had social media buzzing thanks to another eye-catching pregame arrival.
The Sparks forward showed up wearing a coordinated all-white outfit featuring a bandeau crop top, asymmetrical mini skirt and oversized textured blazer. The look immediately started circulating online once the Sparks and WNBA social media accounts shared photos and videos from her arrival at Michelob ULTRA Arena.
It did not take long for fans to flood the comment sections.
“Supermodel vibes”
“Cam Killin her Barbie look as usual.”
and “Sorry did anyone see Brink’s abs?”
Attention has become increasingly common for Brink, who has quickly developed a reputation as one of the league’s top fashion personalities. Her tunnel fits and pregame looks routinely generate major engagement online, helping elevate her profile far beyond basketball.
Cameron Brink backed up the spotlight on the court
What made Saturday even bigger for Brink was that she followed the viral fashion moment with one of her strongest performances of the season. Making her first start of the year, Brink played an important role in the Sparks’ impressive 101-95 victory over the Aces. She finished with 16 points on 7-of-11 shooting while adding eight rebounds, one steal and one block in 24 minutes.
The victory improved Los Angeles to 3-3 on the season while also snapping Las Vegas’ four-game winning streak. For a young Sparks team still trying to build consistency, beating the Aces represented a major early-season statement. Brink’s growing comfort offensively was one of the biggest reasons why.
Brink’s influence continues growing around the WNBA
Brink’s popularity has steadily climbed since entering the league, but moments like Saturday continue showing how quickly her reach is expanding. She already has become one of the WNBA’s most recognizable personalities thanks to her combination of on-court production, social media presence and fashion influence. That crossover appeal has helped make her one of the faces of the league’s younger generation alongside several other rising stars.
Saturday was simply the latest example. Brink grabbed attention before the game even started, then helped deliver one of the Sparks’ most important wins of the season once the ball tipped.
Through the 2024-25 season, the Los Angeles Lakers have had a total of 506 players suit up for them, going back to their days in Minneapolis. Some were forgettable, some were serviceable, some were good and a select few were flat-out legendary.
During the Lakers' 80th season of existence (they were founded back in 1946 as the Detroit Gems in the National Basketball League), LeBron Wire is taking a look at each player who has worn their jersey, whether it has been a purple and gold one or the ones they donned back in the Midwest during their early years.
In 1966, the Lakers took Jerry Chambers, a 6-foot-5 forward, with the No. 7 pick in the NBA draft. As a rookie, he averaged 7.5 points and three rebounds in 14.7 minutes a game before spending the following two years serving in the military. While he was away, the Lakers sent him, Archie Clark and Darrall Imhoff to the Philadelphia 76ers for Wilt Chamberlain, a trade that would eventually get them their first NBA championship since moving to L.A.
Chambers returned to the league for the 1969-70 season as a member of the Phoenix Suns and would remain in the league until 1972, when he jumped to the American Basketball Association (ABA) for two seasons. He retired with lifetime averages of 8.3 points and 3.2 rebounds in 16.1 minutes a game across both the NBA and ABA.
Two weeks ago, the Oregon Ducks and UCLA Bruins met for a highly anticipated weekend series in Los Angeles with a lot of bragging rights on the line. Tempers raised, and things got heated between the two, with Oregon giving the Bruins their first conference loss in 27 games, and almost taking the weekend series before an 8th-inning grand slam changed things for UCLA.
Now, we get a rematch, and this time, there will be more than bragging rights on the line.
This time, in Omaha, the Ducks and Bruins are playing for the Big Ten Championship. If you are wondering how to watch the action live, you have come to the right place.
At this point, a win would certainly seal the Ducks' position as a host team for the NCAA Tournament, and there's a decent chance that they already have that locked up by making it to the conference title game.
Miles Gosztola will get the ball for the Ducks with the conference championship on the line. He turned in one of his best outings of the season against UCLA two weeks ago, tallying a season-high nine strikeouts and allowing just two runs over 5 ⅓ innings on the mound.
UCLA will roll with Landon Stump to start the game. The Ducks tagged the junior pitcher for a run earlier this season and ran him from the game after just 2 ⅔ innings.
Here's where to watch Oregon vs. Washington on Friday night, including TV channel, time, and streaming information.
Where to watch Oregon baseball vs. UCLA game today?
The game between Oregon and UCLA will be aired on Big Ten Network, and will also be streamed live on B1G+.
What time does Oregon baseball play today?
Time: 12:00 p.m. PT
Location: Omaha, Nebraska
The game between Oregon and UCLA is set to start at 12:00 p.m. PT at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha, Nebraska. The Ducks are 10-7 on the road this season.
Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.
The No. 12 Oregon baseball team had to win two games in a single day to advance to the Big Ten tournament championship game, and it did just that May 23 at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha to set up a Sunday rematch against No. 1 UCLA.
After taking down No. 11 seed Washington in the early morning in a game postponed due to weather, the No. 3 seed Ducks (40-15, 20-10 Big Ten) took down No. 2 seed Nebraska in the semifinal in the evening, 8-0.
The Ducks will face the Bruins (50-6, 28-2) in the Big Ten tournament title game at noon PT Sunday, just ahead of the host sites for NCAA regionals being announced at 5 p.m. PT later than day.
UCLA took two out of three when the teams played in Los Angeles earlier this month in a contentious series that featured ejections.
Here's how to watch.
What TV channel is Oregon vs. UCLA baseball on today?
The New York Giants have been in business for over a century and have a long, illustrious history. They have scores of Pro Football Hall of Famers and over 50 members in their Ring of Honor, which was established in 2010.
Most of the franchise's great players, owners, executives, and coaches have been enshrined in the Ring, which raises the question: Who might be next?
The first name is former general manager Jerry Reese, who was run out of town back in 2017 after he and Ben McAdoo made the mistake of benching Eli Manning in favor of Geno Smith, ending Manning's consecutive starting streak.
There are two general managers who are in the Ring of Honor, though: George Young and Ernie Accorsi. They deserve to be there for their impact not only on winning but on the culture of the organization — but Reese’s record is better than each of theirs and he won just as many Super Bowls as Young did.
The popular knock against Reese is that he won those titles with Accorsi’s roster. It’s true that he took over in 2007, just in time to reap the rewards of a slew of acquisitions that were poised to pay off: Manning, Justin Tuck, Chris Snee, Osi Umenyiora and Michael Strahan as draft picks, Antonio Pierce and Plaxico Burress as free agents and Tom Coughlin as coach. But Reese was Accorsi’s lieutenant for almost all of those fateful decisions.He had been with the organization as a scout and then an executive since 1994. All of those moves were Accorsi’s, but Reese played a role in them. And when they were ready to blossom into a championship-caliber squad, he, too, was ready to steer the ship.
It’s also worth noting that those who have followed Reese have added to his luster. Dave Gettleman replaced him in 2017 and in four years posted a winning percentage of .292. Gettleman’s departure begot Schoen and his .329 mark.
Some of the other names are nearly as polarizing as Reese's, such as Bill Belichick and Tom Landry. Both were instrumental in building championship teams, but went on to bigger things elsewhere.
Two players, one from the early days of the franchise, quarterback Benny Friedman, and one from the Giants' most recent Super Bowl team, wide receiver Victor Cruz, were also suggested by Rock. They are both deserving, and fans would have no issue with their induction.
The last name Rock proposes is long-time Giants radio voice Bob Papa, who is still calling games for the club. He could go up in the Ring, but maybe not until after his career comes to an end.
The Florida Southern College men's golf team won its 14th NCAA national championship on Friday, May 22, defeating Wingate University of North Carolina 3-2 in the D-II title match.
Friday's win gave the storied athletic program its 31st overall national championship in all sports. The men's golf program last one a championship in 2017. All three FSC seniors won their finals Friday at the Boulder Creek Golf Club in Boulder City, Nevada.
Tyler Mistretta beat Wingate's Brandon Skidmore by one, 70-71. The graduate student from North Palm Beach went down on the opening hole before tying on hole 2. He then went 1-up and held on to the advantage for most of the front nine. He worked all the way to 4-up on the back nine. Skidmore closed the gap to one stroke but Mistretta held on to clinch his match.
The Moccasins' Donte Groppuso dominated his match against Mattia D'Errico, winning by five strokes, 66-71. Groppuso, a graduate student from Kingston, New York, carded five birdies and an eagle, losing only two holes and tying his tournament-low 66 from the semifinal round. The highlight of his round was sinking a 30-foot eagle putt on 15.
Max Barile clinched the title for the Mocs, beating Wingate's Cole Rouse by four strokes, 68-72. The senior from Land O' Lakes led the entire match and carded six birdies in the round.
Anthony Monteleone fell by two strokes to Wingate's Alfie Storer, 70-68. Monteleone led through the first six holes, but Storer tied on hole 7. A bogey on No. 8 gave Storer a brief lead, but a Monteleone birdie on 9 evened it at the turn. Monteleone managed one birdie on the back nine, on hole 13, But a birdie on 10 and an eagle on 16 gave Storer the 68-70 win.
Colton Swartz, a junior from Fleming Island, was the only Moc to not shoot under par, carding an even-par 72. Wingate's Lewis Beeden recorded six birdies and an eagle in the match. Back-to-back bogeys by Beeden on 11 and 12 helped Swartz close within one stroke. But Beeden recorded three straight birdies and an eagle to pull away and win 68-72.
The Mocs reached the championship round after beating Colorado Christian 3-2 in the quarterfinals, and Lee 4-1 in the Semifinals.
Against Colorado Christian, Mistretta, Monteleone and Swartz won their matches, while Groppuso and Barile lost by narrow margins. Earlier in the week, the No. 3-ranked Mocs secured the top spot in medal match play with a stroke play score of 829, or 35 under.
Mistretta shot a career-low 64 on the final day of stroke play to finish in third place with an 11-under 205. Monteleone shot 10-under over three days to tie for fourth. Barile finished stroke play tied for 14th at 7 under. Swartz and Groppuso tied for 23rd at 4 under.
USC Beaufort's Octavio Laurent won the individual title on Wednesday, finishing 17 under in the championship.
During a conversation with offensive line expert Brandon Thorn in his film session, Kansas City Chiefs offensive tackle Josh Simmons shares his thoughts on improving ahead of the 2026 season.
Simmons notes several elite tackles, including retired Green Bay Packers tackle David Bakhtiari, as guides for his game.
"You can tell he's just in his own world," Simmons said, "That's just kind of what I feel like O-line is about, just getting in your own world and just spanking something."
Talking technique with Josh Simmons; V handle, one-vs-two hand strikes, decision-making process between being aggressive, settling or expanding the set point and more pic.twitter.com/PXaNWkNapU
Former Chiefs players mentioned in the technique training conversation were Andrew Wylie and Mitchell Schwartz. Thorn described several factors needed to improve upon heading into Simmons' second season.
"You have a bigger spoonful of what to expect coming into your second year," said Simmons. "You're going into year two with all these tools in your toolbox, and you still have so much to learn."
In 2025, Simmons was a Day 1 starter on Patrick Mahomes' blind side. He fit the part, giving up just one sack in the first five games of the season, according to Pro Football Focus. He missed four games while handling a family matter and then, later, a season-ending wrist surgery.
Everywhere Harrisburg’s softball players go, Marley is with them.
She is written on their arms with streaks of eye-black, attached to their batting helmets with vibrant stickers bearing her name, and always kept close in the form of a steel crucifix with her initials engraved.
Her favorite walk-up song — The Beastie Boys’ bouncing anthem ‘Brass Monkey’ — blares through the Eagles’ ballpark on game days. It is the last song that plays during warmups at their home field, and the first to play when they arrive at away games.
Her double-zero jersey hangs in the dugout every game as a constant, gentle reminder.
“It’s just little Easter eggs from her all over,” Harrisburg senior Tess Cudmore said. “It’s nice because in the middle of the game you just go, ‘Oh, this is what we’re playing for this year. This is what Harrisburg will play for for a long time to come.’”
In early March, Marley Moser, a 14-year-old freshman at Harrisburg, took her own life. A standout softball player, she was so much more to her friends and loved ones. The notes written by her teammates for her memorial service tell the story of a passionate daughter, sister and classmate who always sought to put others before herself: ‘She was the first person to check up on me’; ‘If I was having a bad day, she always had something positive to say’; ‘She was so nice to me.’
“She was just a force. Being around her, it just felt like she had fire in her soul,” Marley’s mother, Maliah Moser said. “Everything she did, she was passionate about.”
As her family and community mourn her loss, Marley’s Harrisburg teammates are doing everything in their power to keep her legacy alive and find meaning in an unspeakable tragedy.
'I watched her walk through life with such grace'
Maliah Moser doesn’t hesitate for a split second when describing her daughter.
“Tenacious,” she said. “She had such a work ethic, on and off the softball field. She found something that she loved and she was all about it.”
From a young age, it was clear to Marley’s parents that their daughter was a force to be reckoned with.
A bike wreck in the driveway would immediately be followed by reassuring shouts of, ‘I’m OK! I’m OK!’ as Marley sprang up to try again.
“And I’m like, ‘Well, you’re bleeding and there are rocks sticking out of your knee. So maybe I should check it out,’” Maliah recalled with a laugh.
When her older brother, Mason, began playing tackle football as a child, Marley wondered aloud when it would be her turn to play. The way she saw it, if he got to play, why couldn’t she?
So, there she was on the first day of practice with a bob haircut crammed under her helmet. She took to football so well that after a week her coach admitted to Maliah, ‘I didn’t know she was a girl until today because she didn’t correct me all week.’
When it came time to play ‘king of the ring’ — a game that pits two players 1-on-1 with the goal of pushing your opponent out of the circle — Marley went through the entire team twice without losing.
When she made the difficult decision to give up football and focus on club softball in the eighth grade, the boys on her team begged her to play one more year.
“She wasn’t just the girl on the team you had to be careful with,” Maliah said. “They knew she would take them out if they weren’t careful. I think it meant a lot to her that the boys respected her in that way and wanted her on the field.”
Marley carried that tenacity and toughness everywhere she went. In a household where giving each other a hard time is "kind of our love language," according to Maliah, Marley was always ready to spar at a moment's notice.
"Mason is 18, but she was so quick-witted that she would roast him left and right," Maliah recalled. "He’d just be like, ‘Well, yup, you got me.’ They would fight like cats and dogs and act like they hate each other. Then, five minutes later, they’re headed to Dari Mart to get snacks together. They had this love-hate relationship, which I think is pretty typical between brothers and sisters."
As she grew older, two of Marley’s main loves, softball and music, became interwoven. Oftentimes after practice, she would head straight to the family's driveway with a tee, a bucket of balls and her headphones and smash line drives into the net for hours on end while listening to everything from Prince to Billie Eilish.
When it came time to pick a walk-up song for her club team, the Harrisburg Cyclones, many of her teammates chose modern pop hits or catchy rap choruses.
At the time, Marley was going through her “90’s and grunge” phase and knew immediately what song would serve as the soundtrack to her plate appearances.
The Beastie Boys’ 1987 hit “Brass Monkey” — released more than two decades before Marley was born — was impossible to miss each time she came up to bat.
Her teammates rolled their eyes at the choice, and her family begged and pleaded for her to stop when she insisted on listening to the song multiple times during drives to club tournaments.
Marley didn’t care. That was her style.
“She was unapologetically herself. I was so in awe of her,” Maliah said. “She was everything at her age that I wanted to be at that age. I was insecure and not confident and maybe put on this persona that I was, when I really wasn’t.
“I watched her walk through life with such grace.”
A life filled with tenacity, passion and grit
Marley’s tenacity and passion shone through to her Harrisburg softball teammates, even those who only got to know her this season.
“She would go home after practices or tryouts and she would just work more,” junior Dylan Hayworth said. “She was just that person who was always wanting to do more for herself and for her team. I think her impact was so big, but she did it in such a quiet way that made it more powerful and meaningful for everybody.”
“She is one of the toughest kids I have ever met,” added Harrisburg junior Brooklynn Huddleston. “She had that grit. I want to have that grit just like her; I think just remembering her however we can helps a lot.”
Cudmore, Harrisburg’s senior captain, knew the school’s incoming group of freshmen would be hit the hardest by the loss of Marley. Some of them were unsure if they could cope with playing this season, and Cudmore assured them the team would support whatever decision they made.
If they opted to play, she and the rest of the Eagles’ players would have their backs.
After Marley’s memorial service, Cudmore asked Harrisburg coach Dave Hughes if she could keep her jerseys and carry them with her throughout the season.
Although she admittedly was not as close with Marley as some of the Eagles’ other players, she did not want that weight to fall on her younger teammates as they mourned the loss of a close friend.
“She was going to be my teammate. I’m team captain, and that was going to be my freshman. I remember when I was a freshman; I looked up to our captain so much. I wanted to be that way for them,” Cudmore said. “I wanted Marley to still be able to be at the games with us. … Everyone is keeping her close in some way. I just wanted what was truly going to be hers to be here with us.”
So, Marley’s three jerseys — purple, black and white — hang on Cudmore’s bedroom wall.
On game days, she packs whichever color Harrisburg will wear.
As the Eagles go, so goes Marley, with her jersey draped over the bus railing on road trips and hanging prominently at the front of the dugout during games.
So, too, goes a boom box that blares ‘Brass Monkey’ every time her teammates step off the bus.
“It’s kind of bittersweet, I suppose,” Maliah said. “I love that they’ve honored her and gone out of their way to make her be a part of the season. I think that’s incredible. She would have loved that. I’m sure she’s watching and I’m sure she’s getting a kick out of it.”
In a year that has been about so much more than simply wins and losses on the diamond, Harrisburg’s players and coaches aren’t ready for the journey to stop. The Eagles recently locked up the Mountain Valley Conference title and earned the No. 8 seed in the Class 3A state playoffs. They will host No. 9 Burns/Crane on May 27 in the opening round of the tournament.
“It’s definitely on everyone’s minds that we want to keep this going for as long as possible,” Cudmore said. “Win or lose, just play your hardest. That’s the best way to honor someone, just play with your heart.”
OMAHA, NEBRASKA - MAY 21: Gavin Kuzniewski #48 of Ohio State throws a pitch during the third inning against Michigan at Charles Schwab Field on May 21, 2026 in Omaha, Nebraska. (Photo by Big Ten/University Images via Getty Images)
From now until preseason camp starts in August, Land-Grant Holy Land will be writing articles around a different theme every week. This week is all about cause and effect. We will explore domino-effect scenarios that could impact OSU’s season. You can catch up on all of the Theme Week content here and all of our ”If This, Then That” articles here.
In Ohio State baseball’s second season under head coach Justin Haire, the team has shown tremendous year-over-year improvement.
After finishing 2025 in dead last in the Big Ten—winning just five conference games and 13 overall—Haire brought in 23 new names (16 transfers and three freshmen). The massive roster overhaul worked, turning the program around seemingly overnight. The Buckeyes finished the 2026 regular season No. 6 in the Big Ten, going 18-12 in conference and 30-24 overall.
They advanced in the Big Ten Tournament before falling to Michigan Thursday night in an elimination game to conclude the impressive season.
Now that the foundation for success has been set, it’s become easier to identify areas for future improvement, all in service of continuing on this upward trajectory. In particular, pitching stability is one facet of the game that could further solidify the Buckeyes as legitimate Big Ten contenders.
This season, Ohio State had a solid trio of core starters in Pierce Herrenbruck, Gavin Kuzniewski, and Chris Domke. All three have remaining eligibility, though Herrenbruck and Domke are MLB Draft-eligible, and there are still no guarantees about who will return next season.
The trio played particularly well to end the regular season and start the Big Ten Tournament, but only Herrenbruck, whose 3.72 ERA is top 10 in the Big Ten, boasts a sub-4.00 ERA. Kuzniewski and Domke, for their parts, have ERAs of 4.90 and 5.55, respectively, though both have had absolutely standout moments this season (including Kuzniewski’s outing against Michigan in what wound up being the final game of their season. Despite the loss, Kuzniewski gave up just one hit in 7.2 innings pitched, striking out six in the process.
Their late-season performance marked a tremendous stabilization just from the beginning of this season. At one point early on, the Buckeyes carried a team ERA of 6.73, which ranked 212th nationally at the time. By the end of the year, this had improved drastically.
Still, in order for the Buckeyes to reach the Big Ten Tournament final in 2027, even early wins are important. In addition to the pitching stamina needed to sustain the team through the tournament, when rest time between games is more limited, it also needs to position the team well enough in the regular season to earn a high tournament seed.
Successful pitching usually amounts to a really solid ace plus two or three consistently solid starters in rotation and a reliable bullpen. The ace needs to not just be able to consistently win Game 1 of a three-game series in the regular season but also has to be capable of shutting down top offenses and, in tournament play, of returning to the mound on little rest.
The latter two are particularly important in the context of the Big Ten Tournament, when even one mistake can end a season (just look at Kuzniewski’s unbelievable outing against Michigan a few days ago).
Should all three pitchers return, another year of experience could put the Buckeyes in a good spot if they can start the season as strong as they finished this one and then continue on that trajectory, though again, it remains to be seen who will be back next season.
But while the starters shoulder a lot of the burden, the team also needs additional bullpen depth, especially when we consider the strain conference tournaments put on pitchers. Having a few steady relievers who can rack up a few strikeouts and throw swing-and-miss-type pitches can help the team avoid late-game collapses, something that becomes even more likely as Tournament play goes on.
If the Buckeyes can stabilize these elements of their pitching game even further, whether through roster additions or year-over-year improvements, they could build upon this season’s commendable success to become serious threats in the Big Ten Tournament next year.
Bentley had a breakout year in his final season with the Utes, hauling in 48 receptions for 620 yards and six touchdowns in 13 games.
“Biggest strengths, I think I’m a really great hybrid tight end who’s able to go out there and make some big plays in the passing game and stick my hand in the dirt and make some big plays there," Bentley said during a conference call after being picked by Denver in April. "I have great hands, so I don’t drop balls, so you can trust me in some situations."
Bentley was also asked how he can improve. Like many tight end prospects coming out of college, Bentley has work to do to improve his blocking.
"I’m always looking for things to improve on," Bentley said. "Specifically right now, some things I’m working on are just getting a lot of improvement on my hand strength in the blocking game.”
Bentley will now join an offense led by coach Sean Payton, who has produced several star tight ends in his career.
“I’m super excited," Bentley said. "I’m thrilled, super excited to be part of the Broncos team and work under him, and his offense and be a part of that tight end group. So I’m super thrilled.”
Following rookie minicamp earlier this month, Bentley will report back to the team's facility for organized team activities (OTAs) in early June, followed by a mandatory minicamp in mid-June. After that, training camp will be on deck, with practices expected to begin in late July.
The Diamondbacks host the Colorado Rockies on Sunday, May 24, with right-hander Ryne Nelson on the mound for Arizona in the final game of a seven-game homestand at Chase Field.
Then it is off to San Francisco and Seattle for three games each, as the Diamondbacks finish up a stretch of 13 straight games against National League West opponents before tackling the AL West-contending Mariners.
The Diamondbacks swept a three-game series against the San Francisco Giants May 18-20. They'll be at Oracle Park for the first time in 2026.
The Giants have had a rough season under first-year manager Tony Vitello. They were one game ahead of Colorado in fourth place in the NL West going into games on Thursday, May 21.
Luis Arraez, who bats near the top of the San Francisco lineup, has been the Giants' top hitter this season, and Casey Schmitt, who homered at Chase Field Wednesday, May 20, had a team-high eight home runs after that one against Arizona's Merrill Kelly.
The Mariners have been a disappointment after reaching Game 7 of the American League Championship Series last season.
In addition to star catcher Cal Raleigh playing hurt and eventually landing on the injured list with an oblique injury, the Mariners offense has been tepid. Seattle's team batting average on Wednesday, May 20, was .225, tied for second-lowest in Major League Baseball.
The starting rotation including Bryan Woo, Emerson Hancock, Luis Castillo, Logan Gilbert, Bryce Miller and George Kirby has been solid and is the main reason for most of the Mariners' wins.
The Giants series times are 2:05 p.m. on Monday, May 25, followed by 6:45 p.m. on May 26 and 12:45 p.m. on May 27. After a day off on May 28, the Seattle series starts with a 7:10 p.m. first pitch on Friday, May 29, then 7:10 on May 30 and 1:10 p.m. on Sunday, May 31.
It’s been a productive postseason for the Arizona State athletic teams.
The coming week features men's and women's golf at the NCAA Championships, as well as baseball beginning the NCAA tournament.
Coach Megan Bartlett’s softball program continued its remarkable postseason run with an upset over No. 15 Texas A&M in the Bryan-College Station Regional. ASU became the 13th consecutive Big 12 tournament champion to reach the super regionals.
ASU is facing the defending NCAA champion Texas in the Austin Super Regional, which could extend to Sunday, May 24, if the best-of-three series is tied. Bartlett was an assistant coach at Texas before becoming ASU’s head coach in 2022.
May 24
Softball vs Texas at Austin Super Regional (if necessary). Austin. Format is best-of-three. TBD.
Women's golf at NCAA Championships. Carlsbad, California. Time TBD.
May 25
Women's golf at NCAA Championships. Carlsbad, California. Time TBD.
May 26
Women's golf at NCAA Championships. Carlsbad, California. Time TBD.
May 27
Women's golf at NCAA Championships. Carlsbad, California. Time TBD.
Track and field at NCAA West Regionals. Fayetteville, Arkansas. Time TBD.
May 28
Track and field at NCAA West Regionals. Fayetteville, Arkansas. Time TBD.
May 29
Men's golf at NCAA Championships. Carlsbad, California. Time TBD.
Track and field at NCAA West Regionals. Fayetteville, Arkansas. Time TBD.
May 30
Men‘s golf at NCAA Championships. Carlsbad, California. Time TBD.
Track and field at NCAA West Regionals. Fayetteville, Arkansas. Time TBD.
Catch the best high school sports coverage in the state. Sign up for Azcentral Preps Now. And be sure to subscribe to our daily sports newsletters so you don't miss a thing.
The Phoenix Mercury are heading east for the first time this season.
The Mercury faced some chemistry struggles during the four-game homestand, including two late losses to the Minnesota Lynx and Toronto Tempo. Point guard Monique Akoa Makani’s absence was felt throughout the homestand as she finished her overseas play in France.
Although it’s early in the season, the Mercury will need to find a way to stay competitive on the road against the Atlanta Dream on May 24, and in two games against the New York Liberty on May 27 and 29.
The Dream’s front court got stronger in the offseason with the addition of Angel Reese via trade, while most of the team’s contributors from 2025 returned.
Reese struggled offensively in an 85-84 loss against the Las Vegas Aces on May 17, but she impacted the game defensively through her screening and rebounding.
Former Mercury star Satou Sabally hasn’t played for the Liberty yet, but has made progress in her recovery from a cyst. Sabally has yet to play since going down with a concussion in Game 3 of the WNBA Finals on Oct. 8.
Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu missed the start of the season with a left foot injury suffered in the final preseason game. Forward Breanna Stewart has shared the scoring load with French guards Pauline Astier and Marine Johannes.
Astier has made an impact in her rookie season, posting 20 points in 22 minutes, including three 3-pointers in the Liberty’s 18-point win over the Portland Fire on May 14.
Entering their Thursday, May 21, home matchup against the Los Angeles Sparks, Phoenix star Kahleah Copper was averaging 17.8 points per game, Alyssa Thomas 16.6 points and Natasha Mack 8.6 rebounds per game.
Rookie Jovana Nogic, a Serbian guard who played at Providence, scored 27 points with five 3-pointers in a victory over the Chicago Sky on May 15.
Catch the best high school sports coverage in the state. Sign up for Azcentral Preps Now. And be sure to subscribe to our daily sports newsletters so you don't miss a thing.
Bryan Reynolds was an afterthought the day he reached the
major leagues.
The outfielder was recalled from Triple-A Indianapolis by the
Pittsburgh Pirates along with infielder Cole Tucker on April 20, 2019, for a
game against the San Francisco Giants at PNC Park in Pittsburgh. This move came
after shortstop Erik Gonzalez and center fielder Starling Marte were injured
the night before when they collided while chasing a fly ball.
Before the game, the reporters crowded around Tucker’s locker.
As the charismatic first-round draft pick from 2014, he had long been touted as
a future star, making him a clear focal point.
In contrast, Reynolds went basically unnoticed while sitting
at his locker at the other end of the clubhouse. The quiet Tennessean was one
of two prospects acquired from the Giants the previous winter in a trade for
star outfielder Andrew McCutchen.
Operating mostly in obscurity during his debut, Reynolds went
1 for 2 in a game shortened to five innings because of rain, striking out and
hitting a single off Derek Holland.
"It was kind of a spur-of-the-moment thing,"
Reynolds recalled Saturday while talking to reporters before the Pirates played
the Blue Jays at Rogers Centre in Toronto. "A lot of things had to go
right, a lot of guys got banged up a little bit. I remember pretty much
everything about it. Strike out, first setback, get that out of the way early,
and then get a hit."
Since that day, Reynolds has stayed in the major leagues. He
played in his 1,000th career game on Saturday as the Pittsburgh lost 5-2, going 2
for 3 with a walk. The Blue Jays can sweep the three-game series on Sunday.
Now a staple in the lineup, Reynolds is hitting .250/.377/.380
with four home runs in 52 games. He is under contract through 2030 on an
eight-year, $106.75-million deal and has been selected for two All-Star Games
during his eight-year career.
Meanwhile, Tucker’s playing career ended last season, and he
is now a SiriusXM broadcaster.
"It's special," Reynolds said of playing in 1,000
games. "Just taking a step back and realizing that I was a kid who played
local travel ball. Didn't play the national teams, didn't really do showcases.
Went to the best college (Vanderbilt) you could go to, but I wasn't recruited
other than that. So, in the big leagues, to play 1,000-plus games, it's pretty
cool.”
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AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT hit near-MSRP prices in the UK At several UK retailers, the price of many AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT models has dipped to £599.99, bringing it exceptionally close to the GPU’s MSRP of £569.99. For most of this year, Radeon RX 9070 XT models have been priced far above AMD’s […]
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Bambu Lab is once more in hot water after user Moreiras3D posted a video of a melted A1 3D printer to Instagram. The footage shows an A1 with its side completely melted down to the metal chassis, but some of the key details behind the incident remain unknown.
These Russian satellites are getting uncomfortably close to a U.S.- and European-operated radar satellite, particularly in Ukraine, used for reconnaissance missions. While their intentions are unclear, these maneuvers consume a lot of fuel and are not typically undertaken by other satellites.
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