The new app would be based on the Shots function that was tested on Instagram.

In a revealing interview following his return to the pitch, Ronald Araújo decided to open up about the most difficult process of his career.

The FC Barcelona defender confessed that, behind his image of strength, he went through a deep mental health crisis that kept him from being at his best for more than eighteen months.

The brave call for help

"I was battling anxiety for a year and a half, and that turned into depression," admitted the Uruguayan. Araújo explained that, due to his roots and personality, he tried to keep everything to himself and "carry on" by inertia, but the lack of confidence ended up affecting his performance and personal life.

The turning point came when he realized he needed to "raise his hand" and seek support from his family, spirituality, and specialized professionals.

The fight continues today

Now, feeling "completely different" and recovered after a recent goal, the defender sent a message of awareness to the sports world: "We are people, beyond being footballers. It's not all about money or fame."

Araújo emphasized that working with experts gave him the necessary tools to handle the pressure and, finally, enjoy football with happiness once again.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are in the midst of one of the worst drouts in franchise history. Sure, they have made it to the postseason in each of the last three seasons, but they’ve lost their three playoff games by a combined score of 89-37. Nine years without a playoff win marks the most in franchise history, and their seven consecutive playoff losses are just two behind the Detroit Lions from 1991-2016 for the most in NFL history.

All of these factors have added up and put Team President Art Rooney II under a microscope, with many believing it’s time for him to step aside and hand the keys to his son, Dan. One of those who is especially critical of Rooney is ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, who went scorched Earth on the Steelers’ President.

“You go out and get a coach that’s considered a lateral move who, by the way, is 27 years older than the previous coaches that you hired when you hired them, giving an infusion to the Steeler Nation and the Steelers fanbase,” Smith said on First Take, via Chris Ward of Steelers Now. “I’m just looking at this man here, I’m talking about Art Rooney and the quotes. You’ve given the Pittsburgh Steeler fanbase nothing to be excited about.”

Smith continued, taking what some perceived as a low blow, saying that Rooney II is a Rooney in name only.

“You’re a Rooney, but you ain’t them because your record proves you ain’t them,” Smith said.

The hiring of Mike McCarthy has fans concerned about the direction of the team, as the Steelers opted not to hire a younger coach to lead this new era. Should the Steelers go yet another season without a playoff win, the criticism will only grow louder.

Let us know what you think in the comments. Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more!

• Steelers have some of the worst Super Bowl LXI odds
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• Steelers given price tag for Mac Jones trade
• Steelers free agents 2026: Aaron Rodgers, Isaac Seumalo headline list
• Another assistant coach turns down Steelers job

Slovenia’s fans had waited long enough. Long enough meaning three days.

First, gold medal favorite Nika Prevc landed in silver in the women’s normal hill on Saturday — commendable, for sure, but not enough for this crowd and not enough for her. On Monday, her brother, Domen Prevc, another favorite, landed in sixth.

But on Tuesday night, Slovenia reminded everyone why it is one of ski jumping’s most dominant nations, winning gold in the mixed team normal hill with a team consisting of Nika, Domen, Nika Vodan and Anže Lanišek.

Norway, which entered the second round ranked third, snuck ahead of Japan in the final jump for silver, with Japan winning bronze.

All events have concluded. See full medal count.

Slovenia led by 9.2 points over Japan after the first round of jumps, with Norway the only other country in medal contention. Though Norway’s Kristoffer Eriksen Sundal produced the night’s longest jump, 104.0 meters, Slovenia was far more consistent, led by Lanišek bouncing back from disappointment in Monday night’s individual competition to leap 102.0m.

With two rounds remaining, Slovenia knew that solid jumps from the Prevc siblings would bring home their first gold of the games. Having been in tears after missing out on gold in the women’s normal hill, Nika produced a jump of 98.5m to extend Slovenia’s lead, ensuring that her brother only needed to produce the bare minimum to give both siblings their first Olympic gold.

Domen, competing away from his favoured large hill, duly obliged. His jump of 102m gave Slovenia a 30.9-point lead over silver medalists Norway, who overhauled Japan after world record holder Ryōyū Kobayashi blinked with his second-round jump.

On landing, Domen skied into his sister’s arms — ensuring that Slovenia defended ots title from 2022 in Beijing, where older brother Peter was part of the team.

Standing in parts of Tuesday’s crowd, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in Ljubljana, the capital; or maybe Planica, the mountain town that hosts World Cup ski jumping events; the Slovenian border is only a few hours’ drive away. There were shirts reading, “I feel very Olympic today;” top hats in white, blue and red; scarves saying, “I feel sLOVEnia;” and many, many flags.

“It’s incredible,” Lanišek said. “After yesterday’s performance, it couldn’t go any worse. First of all, I’d like to (thank) the whole coaching staff, they have trust and belief in me. It’s perfect. Yesterday, the pressure was in my head. It was like a worm. I tried to stay calm. It’s sport, sometimes you get your reward, sometimes you don’t.”

This article originally appeared in The Athletic.

Olympics, Global Sports, Women's Olympics

2026 The Athletic Media Company

Texas A&M (17-6, 7-3 SEC) will host Missouri on Wednesday night, looking to earn its eighth win in SEC play after suffering back-to-back losses to Alabama on the road and Florida at home amid one of the toughest three-game stretches in the regular season.

While Saturday's 86-67 loss to the Gators was a blowout and a clear by-product of poor shooting, the news that Alabama center Charles Bediako, who was officially deemed ineligible by the NCAA after Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court Judge Daniel F. Pruet denied his motion for a preliminary injunction, ending the former NBA G-League player's 2025-2026 season.

In five games this season with Bediako in the lineup, Alabama went 3-2, including close wins over Texas A&M (100-97) and Auburn on the road (96-92), scoring five points and grabbing four rebounds against the Aggies, and 12 points and three boards against Auburn. In both games, Bediako's size and strength in the paint played a big role on defense and likely prevented several possessions that could have gone the other way.

Immediately after the news, it was assumed that Texas A&M head coach Bucky McMillan would comment on the matter, leading to Tuesday's press conference, where he was asked if the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee should factor in Bediako's ineligibility, especially for the Aggies, Auburn Tigers, and Tennessee Volunteers, who all fell to the Crimson Tide with the 7-footer in the lineup.

"How is it made right for us? Because they're not going to be able to play with their full roster against the other teams when we had to play against their full roster."

McMillan "hopes" that the Selection Committee will factor in Bediako when the time comes, and while it's highly unlikely these three wins will be vacated, it's important to note that Texas A&M's road loss to Alabama is considered a Quad 1A loss, and likely won't impact the Aggies' tournament seeding more than "bad losses" against Quad 3 and Quad 4 opponents.

Here is the entire quote from Bucky McMillan regarding Charles Bediako's ineligibility:

Texas A&M basketball coach Bucky McMillan on if the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee should factor Charles Bediako (who is no longer eligible) playing in Alabama’s 100-97 win over A&M when determining seeding: “You hope it’s got to be.” pic.twitter.com/DjiHgn6LUd

— Carter Karels (@CarterKarels) February 10, 2026

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.

This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M coach Bucky McMillan on Alabama players' ineligibility

HENDERSON, Nev. — What do our parents always teach us? Learn from your mistakes.

The Las Vegas Raiders and owner Mark Davis appear to have gotten the memo.

Tuesday, the Raiders introduced Klint Kubiak, a 38-year-old offensive guru and Super Bowl champion as their new head coach after he was officially named the team’s latest head coach on Monday. He replaces Pete Carroll, a 74-year-old defensive guru and Super Bowl champion. Both coached in Seattle, both got their ring while with the Seahawks.

But that’s where the difference ends.

The Raiders needed to get younger. They needed someone more in sync with modern football the way it is being played and coached in the second quarter of the 21st Century. They needed someone who can work with, not resist general manager John Spytek. And they needed someone who can develop their next quarterback, most likely Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza.

Kubiak checks all of those boxes. Especially when it comes to working with quarterbacks. And that’s why this is a good hire. He may not be an eloquent speaker or witty like Petey was, but if Kubiak can get the Raiders to win, does it really matter?

I like that the Raiders took their time, did their homework, interviewed a wide range of candidates, let Spytek lead the search, make sure everyone was on the same page with the decision and then threw their support behind the call to bring Kubiak on board. No knee-jerk actions. No “Patriot Way” or some other nonsense. No fretting over head coaching experience of lack of it. It was all about making sure that end the end, they go the guy they wanted, and needed to turn this franchise around.

For what it’s worth, Kubiak said all the right things Tuesday, from thanking Raiders legends like Marcus Allen, Charles Woodson, Howie Long, Mike Haynes, Jim Plunkett and Rich Gannon sharing the dais with him, to Spytek for having the faith in him to hire him as a first-time head coach, to promising a tough, physical brand of football from his team to being grateful to all those who helped him along the way to get to this moment.

I’m sure he has a sense of humor and we’ll see it come out at some point. But Tuesday was a day for honesty and straightforwardness, and there’s nothing wrong in that. Besides, what would you rather see from him, a guy who wins the press conference but goes 3-14 on the field? Or someone who tried to get comfortable in his new role but will be best suited wearing a headset on the sidelines and figuring out how to win come Sunday?

You may think the Silver and Black have been down this road before when they selected Josh McDaniels in 2022. Like Kubiak, McDaniels had made his name as a play-caller, an offensive mind who teamed with Tom Brady to win six Super Bowls.

The difference? McDaniels had previous head coaching experience and it didn’t go well for him when he was in charge of the Denver Broncos. And things certainly didn’t work out for him in his year-plus in Las Vegas. Kubiak is in charge for the first time. I look at his hire much like the ones in Chicago with Ben Johnson, with Liam Coen in Jacksonville, young guys who are attuned to modern-day football, can relate to today’s players and have spent years honing their craft to prepare for the opportunity to be an NFL head coach.

“The NFL is all about competing,” Kubiak said. “With the resources in this building, Mr. Davis has set us up for success. Now we have to go out and earn it.”

How can you not like what Kubiak did with Sam Darnold, a journeyman quarterback who finally achieved the ultimate success after coming up short with the Jets, Panthers, 49ers and Vikings? Kubiak himself has gone from team to team — Vikings, Broncos, 49ers, Saints —as he honed his craft before it all came together for him with the Seahawks, a team that had a dominant defense and enough weapons on offense to give Kubiak a chance to contribute to Seattle’s success.

He’s going to enjoy coaching running back Ashton Jeanty in Las Vegas. He’s going to love working with tight ends Brock Bowers and Michael Mayer. He’ll look to make receivers Tre Tucker, Dont’e Thornton and Jack Bech more productive. And whoever he gets to coach the Raiders’ offensive line will get some talent to work with, assuming they can stay healthy, along with whoever the team drafts and signs in free agency.

I don’t know if he’ll get to coach Maxx Crosby. The latest rumors have the All-Pro edge rusher wanting out of Las Vegas and we’ll see if that turns out to be the case. But that’s Spytek’s call to make. If Crosby is here, I’m sure Kubiak will be excited to work with him. If he leaves, you’ve got to believe the Raiders will receive some assets in return that will make them an improved team at some point.

Kubiak said he talked to Crosby Tuesday morning and looked forward to more conversations going forward. We’ll see if that manifests itself into a relationship that keeps Crosby a Raider long-term.

Kubiak reportedly has a five-year deal in place. That’s longer than Carroll had, which was three years. If he and Spytek develop a working chemistry and can see things in the same prism this will work. If it doesn’t, then we’re looking at yet more change, probably at the GM’s office.

But I believe these two will get along, work together for the betterment of the franchise and ultimately get it right.

Davis is sure hoping he got it right. He is now paying five, count ‘em five head coaches — Jon Gruden ($10 million), McDaniels ($10 million), Antonio Pierce ($8 Million), Carroll ($16 million) and now, Kubiak, whose deal is reportedly in the range of $75 million over the five years. In addition, the Raiders are paying Chip Kelly, who was Carroll’s former offensive coordinator, $6 million. That’s a lot of money to spend on people who are no longer in your employ. But if the investment in Kubiak ultimately pays off with the Raiders making it back to the Super Bowl, a place they last visited in 2003, it will have been worth it.

Manchester City return to the Etihad Stadium in Premier League action after two away matchdays in a row as they take on Marco Silva’s Fulham.

In the reverse fixture, the two teams produced a 4-5 thriller at Craven Cottage with City coming out on top thanks to goals from Erling Haaland, Tijjani Reijnders, Phil Foden and a Sander Berge own goal.

Pep Guardiola’s men into this one off the back of an exciting 1-2 comeback win at Anfield against Liverpool – only the third triumph the Blues have earned at the Merseyside ground this century.

Josko Gvardiol, Mateo Kovacic, Jeremy Doku and Savinho are currently in Manchester City’s medical department and will miss Wednesday’s match, while for the visitors, Tom Cairney and Sasa Lukic are both injured.

During his usual pre-match media duties, Pep Guardiola confirmed that Abdukodir Khusanov is fit and available for the clash against Fulham after his head injury sustained against Liverpool, while John Stones’ return to availability was also confirmed.

Since Manchester City play before Arsenal this midweek, the game will be a great chance to reduce the gap to three points and put pressure on the current league leaders ahead of their clash away at Brentford.

Here is how we predict the hosts will line-up against their West London opponents this week!

Predicted XI

Arguably Manchester City’s saviour against Liverpool, Gianluigi Donnarumma continues to show why he currently holds the Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper in the world, and the Italian will feature in between the posts.

Matheus Nunes has consolidated himself as arguably one of the best right-backs in the Premier League this season, and the now-former midfielder may start once again for the Blues this week.

The rise of Abdukodir Khusanov is admirable as the Uzbek centre-back lives his best moments since he arrived at the Etihad Stadium over a year ago, and the No.45 may be in line to continue as a starter despite Rúben Dias’ return.

We predict that the recently signed and already impressive Marc Guéhi will once again form a partnership with Khusanov in the back line for City this week, in a pairing that is already working out pretty well for the club.

As for Rayan Ait-Nouri, the Algerian has been gaining increased game time after his AFCON pause over winter, proving exactly why Manchester City bought him from Wolves during the last summer market. The left-back should be in the initial eleven one more time.

Rodri’s performance at Anfield on Sunday afternoon was one of his best since coming back from injury, and if physically capable of playing almost 50 hours after another masterclass, the Spaniard simply should.

Captain Bernardo Silva is a leader by example, making him essential in such a match. The legendary No.20 is also key for the new formation as a second holding midfielder with freedom to roam on the pitch, making the Portuguese a likely presence on this team sheet.

Rayan Cherki gives pleasure when on the ball, and against Fulham he should return to the line-up. After being left on the bench at Anfield, Tijjani Reijnders may start to complete an advanced midfield duo.

Manchester City’s striking partnership should be composed by goal scorers Erling Haaland and Antoine Semenyo, and with this tactical set-up, Pep Guardiola could use a 4-2-2-2 formation on the ball while defending in a classic 4-4-2.

Starting XI: Donnarumma; Nunes, Khusanov, Guéhi, Ait-Nouri; Rodri, Bernardo, Cherki, Reijnders; Haaland, Semenyo.

Substitutes: Trafford, Lewis, Dias, Ake, Alleyne, O’Reilly, Nico, Foden, Marmoush.

Arsenal will face off against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium this Thursday night as they look to secure a good result on the road in the Premier League. The Gunners managed to earn an impressive 3-0 win over Sunderland recently, which should give them a lot of confidence going into this game.

Mikel Arteta will set his players up in a 4-3-3 formation and is expected to make some changes to his first XI for this clash. Piero Hincapie, Gabriel Martinelli and Viktor Gyokeres could all play from the start of this game.

4-3-3 Arsenal Predicted Lineup To Face Brentford

Defence

David Raya will feature in between the sticks for the Gunners after he kept a clean sheet in his last league outing. William Saliba will continue to operate alongside Gabriel at the heart of the Arsenal backline as they look to keep things solid at the back during the game.

Jurrien Timber will try to put in a solid performance at right-back, while Piero Hincapie looks to catch the eye on the other side as the left-back. Both of them will have to pick and choose their moments to join in on the attack.

Riccardo Calafiori and Cristhian Mosquera will provide cover for the defensive positions on the bench.

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 07: Viktor Gyoekeres of Arsenal holds off Nordi Mukiele of Sunderland during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Sunderland at Emirates Stadium on February 07, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Midfield

Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi and Kai Havertz will make up Arsenal’s midfield. Their main focus would be to move the ball well and engineer some decent chances in the final third.

Eberechi Eze and Christian Norgaard will be named on the bench as they wait for their chance to make an impact in the second half, if needed.

Attack

Gabriel Martinelli will try to catch the eye on the left flank, while Noni Madueke hopes to put his pace to good use as the right-winger. Viktor Gyokeres will lead the line for the Gunners down the middle. He managed to score a brace versus Sunderland, which should give him a ton of confidence going into this game.

Gabriel Jesus will have to settle for a spot on the bench and might come on to influence the game in the latter stages if the North London club are in need of a goal by then. However, Leandro Trossard is a major doubt for this clash.

Newcastle United Eye Etta Eyong Move as Premier League Dream Grows

Transfer speculation has a habit of arriving in waves, and few names are riding the current tide quite like Etta Eyong. As reported by Fichajes, the Levante striker finds himself at a crossroads, his future “once again located far from Spain and increasingly closer to English football.”

For Newcastle United, a club recalibrating its attacking options, this is more than idle gossip. It speaks to recruitment planning, stylistic alignment, and the relentless pull of the Premier League’s financial gravity.

Levante Spell Lacks Expected Spark

Eyong’s time at Levante has not unfolded with the upward surge many anticipated. There have been flashes, moments that reaffirm why Europe’s elite once circled, yet the consistency required to anchor long term belief has wavered.

As outlined in the original report, “Etta Eyong’s current spell at Levante UD has been more inconsistent than anticipated by the club’s management.” That inconsistency matters. For strikers, rhythm is currency, and LaLiga offers little patience when output dips.

Levante, for their part, retain faith. They still view Eyong as a player of consequence, though no longer untouchable. Financial reality sharpens that perspective. A significant sale would ease pressure and fund squad reinforcement, a dynamic increasingly common across Spanish football’s middle tier.

Newcastle Monitoring Situation Closely

Where Spain’s interest has cooled, England’s has intensified. Newcastle United, according to Fichajes, “continue to be highly regarded” suitors, tracking Eyong’s trajectory even through quieter periods.

Recruitment staff reportedly admire his “physical profile, power, and potential for growth.” Those traits translate well to Premier League demands, where transitional speed and duelling strength shape attacking success.

Importantly, this is framed as forward planning. With concerns around Nico Woltemade’s fitness and output, Newcastle’s interest represents strategic layering rather than reactive buying. The club appears to be identifying players who can evolve alongside its project.

Photo IMAGO

One scout is said to view Eyong as “a striker built for English tempo, capable of stretching defensive lines in ways data alone cannot measure.”

Financial Landscape Shapes Negotiations

Money, inevitably, frames the conversation. Eyong’s mooted €30 million valuation places him in a curious bracket, steep for many Spanish sides, attainable for Premier League investors.

Levante recognise that leverage. Negotiating with English clubs alters the economic equation, offering what the report describes as a “financial advantage.”

The fee would mark a landmark sale, yet Newcastle’s ownership structure means such figures sit within calculated risk territory. Particularly for a player viewed as developmentally unfinished.

Premier League Appeal Driving Decision

Equally significant is the player’s own stance. “Etta Eyong himself wouldn’t be opposed to a change of scenery that would allow him to relaunch his career,” the report states.

The allure is obvious. Exposure, wages, competitive intensity, global visibility. England offers a stage that can reignite stalled momentum.

Developmental pauses are not terminal. Environment, tactical fit, and confidence often dictate resurgence. Eyong’s camp appears to believe a Premier League move could provide precisely that ignition point.

With summer approaching, all parties hover in evaluation mode. Levante weigh timing, Newcastle weigh value, Eyong weighs destiny.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Newcastle supporter’s perspective, this report lands in an intriguing space between opportunity and calculated gamble.

Eyong’s profile fits the recruitment model the club has leaned into recently, high ceiling, physically equipped, tactically adaptable. Fans have seen how the Premier League can sharpen raw attributes into elite output when coaching structure aligns.

There would, however, be natural caution. Inconsistency in LaLiga raises questions about week to week reliability. Supporters would want reassurance that this is not another developmental project without immediate impact, particularly if Champions League ambitions remain active.

That said, the €30 million valuation feels aligned with modern squad building. Not bargain territory, yet far from prohibitive. If Newcastle believe, as suggested, that “this is a strategic move, not an emergency operation,” patience may already be baked into expectations.

There is also stylistic curiosity. Eyong’s pace and counter attacking instincts could complement Newcastle’s transitional threat, offering tactical variation against deeper defensive blocks.

Ultimately, supporters tend to rally behind players who choose the project as much as the platform. If Eyong views Tyneside as the place to “relaunch his career,” that intent alone would generate early goodwill.

Excitement, cautious optimism, and recruitment intrigue, all familiar emotions on the road to another transformative summer.

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Matthew Stockman/Getty Images

The U.S. figure skating team has already won gold at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. But perhaps even more importantly, Amber Glenn and her teammates’ already iconic “Blade Angels” trio are officially a part of athletic history.

This year’s Olympics already marked a major LGBTQ+ milestone within the event, with Glenn, who is pansexual, becoming the first openly queer Olympic women’s figure skater. Fellow athletes Alysa Liu and Isabeau Levito round out the 2026 U.S. Olympic women’s figure skating dream team. And while they’re dominating on the ice, their friendship is also the envy of young fans.

As TikToker @jessaugustyn perfectly explained in a recent video, the trio is so appealing because they represent three key subgroups: “alt, gay, and from New Jersey.”

Once Glenn, Liu, and Levito were named to the U.S. team, they immediately did what any sane people would do: brainstorm an official name for their triple threat of a team in their group chat. They eventually settled on one of Liu’s suggestions, “Blade Angels,” announcing the name in a January 27 U.S. Figure Skating social media post.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DUBSFiiAFQX

“Isabeau was really set on Powerpuff Girls,” Liu shared in a February 2 interview. “I came up with Blade Angels, but I had a ton of horrible ideas, too. It was a group decision.”

Another frontrunner? “Babes of Glory,” which Liu said was tossed out because, “Hello! Copyright!”

While I’d like to believe that Blades of Glory star Will Ferrell and the eponymous Power Puff Girls would’ve let copyright issues slide, “Blade Angels” has become a pretty legendary moniker for the skaters all on its own. Look no further than your local TikTok “For You” page, where fan edits celebrating Glenn, Liu, and Levito’s team have been blowing up for the past few weeks. Is it too soon to start fancasting an Avengers-style team up movie about them?! (For the record, my money is on McKenna Grace, Natasha Liu Bordizzo, and Hannah Cheramy).

Between the “Blade Angels’” success and Bad Bunny’s recent Super Bowl halftime show, watching Americans perform on the global stage actually feels… good, somehow? What a concept!

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Olympian Amber Glenn Says She Got “Scary” Threats for Supporting LGBTQ\+ Rights

“I did anticipate this but I am disappointed by it,” Glenn wrote on Instagram.

As much of a palate cleanser as the “Blade Angels” have been these past few weeks, representing the U.S. hasn’t necessarily been easy on the skaters themselves. On Sunday, Glenn wrote in a post to her Instagram stories that she would be taking a social media break for mental health reasons after facing “outlandish” backlash for her comments supporting LGBTQ+ rights.

During a February 4 Olympic press conference, Glenn was asked about President Donald Trump’s “approach toward the LGBT community.” The second Trump term has made sports a cornerstone of its attacks on trans athletes, as the administration seeks to ban trans athletes from competing across the board.

“It isn’t the first time that we’ve had to come together as a community and try and fight for our human rights,” Glenn said. “Now, especially, it’s not just affecting the queer community, but many other communities, and I think that we are able to support each other in a way we didn’t have to before, and because of that, it’s made us a lot stronger.”

Glenn added that she won’t “shut up about politics,” because “it is something that affects us in our everyday lives.”

“Of course there are things that I disagree with, but as a community, we are strong and we support each other, and brighter days ahead,” she continued.

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Originally Appeared on them.

New York Jets named top landing spot for Super Bowl 60 MVP originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Jets could potentially go from one 2022 NFL draftee in the backfield to another.

The Jets are in danger of losing Breece Hall in free agency, but could Super Bowl 60 MVP Kenneth Walker III be a potential replacement?

Jets named top potential landing spot for Kenneth Walker III 

Zachary Pereles of CBS Sports seems to think so, as he recently named New York as a top landing spot for Walker, who will be headed for free agency after helping the Seattle Seahawks come out victorious in the Big Game.

"The Jets also fall into the category of lead running back potentially going elsewhere. Breece Hall is a free agent. Selected five picks before Walker in the 2022 NFL Draft, Hall has been less explosive but significantly more consistent down to down," Pereles wrote. 

"The Jets' offense was dismal in 2025, but with a new offensive coordinator in Frank Reich, a new quarterback almost certainly coming to town, a solid young offensive line and some of the deepest pockets in free agency, New York could be a fit." 

This story will be updated. 

More NFL news: 

• Key coach announces departure from Philadelphia Eagles
• Patriots legend calls out Tom Brady for Super Bowl prediction
• Dallas Cowboys' 2026 breakout candidate revealed by Pro Football Focus

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As pitchers and catchers start to report to their teams’ camps this week, signaling the official return of baseball, it’s time to take a look back at each club’s offseason and give them a final grade for their work.

On this episode of Baseball Bar-B-Cast, Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman go through all 30 teams division by division, talking about the newest additions and subtractions for each side, as well as which teams could’ve done a little bit more.

Did the Los Angeles Dodgers do enough to bolster their squad and try for a three-peat? Did the New York Yankees and Philadelphia Phillies do the right thing by essentially running back their rosters? Are the Milwaukee Brewers and Cleveland Guardians throwing away a golden chance during a championship window? With at least one team getting an A and another getting an F, find out how your squad did this offseason.

5:45 – AL East

25:04 – NL East

38:52 – AL West

51:11 – NL West

1:01:08 – AL Central

1:17:30 – NL Central

Photo by Brandon Sloter/Chicago Cubs/Getty Images Photo by Daniel Shirey/MLB Photos via Getty Images Photo by Daniel Shirey/MLB Photos via Getty Images

🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTube

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PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (AP) — New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor is being evaluated for a stress reaction in his left hand.

Lindor experienced some soreness in the area around his left hand and wrist over the past couple days. David Stearns, the president of baseball operations for New York, said Lindor is going to visit a hand specialist on Wednesday to check his hamate bone.

“It is possible this will result in hamate surgery. If it does, that's a six-week recovery, which puts us right at opening day,” Stearns said. “So at this point, even if it does require surgery, we would remain optimistic that Francisco would be back for opening day.”

Lindor was left off Puerto Rico's roster for the upcoming World Baseball Classic over insurance coverage.

Stearns also announced that Juan Soto is going to shift from right to left field. The change was finalized after discussions between the slugger and manager Carlos Mendoza.

Soto also is going to play left for the Dominican Republic in the WBC.

“Over the last month or so, as Mendy and Juan were talking about the season, Juan was working out in left field because he's going to play left field for the D.R. in the WBC,” Stearns said. "As they had their conversations, he felt really comfortable there.

“It made sense for us from a roster perspective, so we're going to go forward with it and everyone's on board with it.”

___

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB

How USA-Canada women's hockey rivalry has Dunne family split over Olympic allegiances originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The USA and Canada continue to hold top spots in women's hockey, both starting the Olympics undefeated.

They finally clashed on Tuesday, Feb. 10, with no affection between them.

The rivalry between the USA and Canada is considered one of the most intense in Olympic history, driven by their longstanding dominance, numerous gold-medal matchups, and the significant competitiveness between the two, especially in ice hockey.

In Canada, hockey is a key part of the national identity, so a loss to the U.S. often feels like a major disappointment. In most cases, there is no sitting on the fence for this rivalry, but why is that different for the Dunne family?

The Sporting News breaks down why the USA-Canada women's hockey rivalry has divided the Dunne family.

MORE 2026 OLYMPICS: Live medal tracker | Viewer's guide | Day-by-day schedule

Why USA-Canada women's hockey rivalry has divided Dunne family

The USA-Canada women's hockey rivalry has really stirred up feelings within the Dunne family, mainly because of a relationship that crosses borders.

Josh Dunne, who plays as a forward for the Buffalo Sabres, is dating Ella Shelton, a talented defenseman for the Canadian national team.

Meanwhile, Josh’s younger sister, Joy Dunne, is making her mark as a promising forward for Team USA.

"We've got Benedict Arnold in the family... He's got seats with USA tomorrow we may not let him in..." 😂

The USA/Canada rivalry is a unique one for the Dunne family. NHL son Josh is dating Canadian player Ella Shelton... while his sister Joy plays for #TeamUSA. #Olympicspic.twitter.com/vILvar2mIN

— Corey Miller (@corey_miller5) February 10, 2026

Although the siblings cheer each other on, the rivalry on the ice stays fierce. Joy Dunne compared the USA-Canada matchup to the passionate Ohio State-Michigan rivalry, illustrating just how intense it can be.

MORE: USA vs. Canada women's hockey history

Who is Joy Dunne?

Joy is an American hockey forward proudly representing Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. As a junior at Ohio State University, she is celebrated as one of the sport's bright rising stars, especially after being named the 2024 National Rookie of the Year.

In her Olympic debut, Dunne has been a wonderful offensive force for Team USA, helping them stay undefeated through the preliminary rounds.

Who is Josh Dunne?

Josh Dunne is an American professional ice hockey forward currently serving with the Buffalo Sabres in the NHL. 

Josh is Joy Dunne's older brother, the forward for Team USA.

Dunne has become a consistent NHL depth player this season after spending most of his early career in the American Hockey League. Hockey certainly runs in the Dunne family.

MORE: Meet Laila Edwards, first Black woman to play for USA in women's hockey

Who is Josh Dunne's girlfriend?

Dunne's romantic partner is Ella Shelton, a star defenseman of the Canadian National Women's Hockey Team.

Their relationship gained media attention during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, especially because Josh's younger sister, Joy, is on Team USA.

The couple met at Clarkson University, where Shelton won consecutive national championships in 2017 and 2018.

Who is Ella Shelton?

Shelton is a talented Canadian ice hockey defenseman playing for the Toronto Sceptres in the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL).

She is also an important member of the Canadian National Team, highlighting her skill in the sport.

Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal has cut a miserable figure on the bench over recent weeks, and after he watched David Jimenez start ahead of him on Sunday night against Valencia, and then Trent Alexander-Arnold come on instead of him, his frustration seemed to reach boiling point. It seems that Carvajal and manager Alvaro Arbeloa have lowered the temperature at the Valdebebas training ground though.

Carvajal was seen venting his frustrations to fitness coach Antonio Pintus after the match on Sunday night at Mestalla, which have cumulatively built up after five straight games on the bench. The 34-year-old has played just 27 minutes since returning to fitness, during which time Los Blancos have played 10 matches. Carvajal was reportedly baffled by Arbeloa’s decisions, feeling fit to play, and at the very least, fit for the final 15 minutes of a match. Alexander-Arnold has recovered more recently, and from a more serious injury, but was chosen ahead of him.

Carvajal and Arbeloa hold peace talks

Image via Reuters

According to Marca, Carvajal and Arbeloa spoke to each other during Real Madrid’s training session on Tuesday morning at Valdebebas, in a relaxed manner. The two exchanged their opinions without tension, and they put to bed the matter, agreeing to look forward from now on. Diario AS add that both now consider the matter resolved, and have viewed their conversation positively.

Will Carvajal return to action now?

Real Madrid host Real Sociedad in a tricky encounter this weekend at the Bernabeu, and all eyes will be on Arbeloa’s line-up. It would be bold to start any of his three options, given Jimenez is in theory the lowest down the pecking order, and both Alexander-Arnold and Carvajal have not started games for the past three months. Fede Valverde could also drop into right-back, although the word from the Bernabeu has been that he will be playing in midfield from now on.

The Minnesota Vikings are going to bring in a quarterback this offseason. At the very least, they will bring in a veteran who can compete with J.J. McCarthy for the starting spot. But would the Vikings be willing to give up the requisite capital to land a top-tier quarterback?

Joe Burrow has been rumored to want out of Cincinnati after a cryptic press conference in December. He played with Justin Jefferson at LSU in 2018 and 2019, and Burrow would fit in perfectly in Kevin O'Connell's pass-happy scheme.

However, Dianna Russini of The Athletic poured cold water on the rumors, saying it doesn't sound like Cincinnati wants to trade Burrow anywhere.

Despite the hopes and dreams of Minnesota Vikings fans, the Cincinnati Bengals have no intention of trading Joe Burrow — to Minnesota or anywhere else. As for Burrow’s overall happiness? Bengals star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase told me he isn’t worried about Burrow’s future, despite late-season speculation after another missed playoff opportunity.

“Everything gets blown out of proportion with him,” Chase said. “He still loves to work on his craft and become the best every day.”

That likely won't stop the Vikings from trying to acquire Burrow, but the report isn't surprising. When healthy, Burrow is a top-three quarterback in the league and gives the Bengals a chance to win every week.

We'll see if this changes at all during the offseason. But right now, it sounds like dreams of Burrow in purple are just that – dreams.

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Vikings fans shouldn't expect a Joe Burrow trade anytime soon

How the Warriors almost traded for Jaren Jackson Jr. instead of Kristaps Porzingis originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Warriors were one of a few teams in trade rumors over the last few weeks, as they looked to make an impact move before the trade deadline.

They ultimately decided to trade for Hawks' center Kristaps Porzingis, but there was almost a different reality where they traded for former DPOY Jaren Jackson Jr. instead.

How the Warriors almost traded for Jaren Jackson Jr. instead of Kristaps Porzingis

*The following intel was provided by NBA insider Brett Siegel

Kristaps Porzingis is a trade deadline addition the Warriors were happy with, but he wasn't their first or even their second trade deadline target when it came to a big addition at the forward/center position.

The obvious first option was Giannis Antetokounmpo, but as we know, the Bucks decided to hold off on trading the former MVP and NBA champion.

MORE: The Bucks only listened to trade offers on Giannis Antetokounmpo for this clever reason

This brings us to their second option, which was Jaren Jackson Jr.

Jackson Jr. did get moved at the deadline, as the Grizzlies found common ground with the Jazz on a deal.

However, the Warriors were in talks to try to get Jackson Jr. before that eventually happened.

"Jackson became the Warriors' Plan B before the trade deadline, but their pursuit came with clear concerns and caveats," said NBA insider Brett Siegel.

He detailed that there was a world where Golden State made room and got assets to try to put a real trade together for Jackson Jr., but "Butler's injury and other teams' pursuit of Jackson only raised his price right before the deadline."

MORE: Celtics' NBA champions Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford reunite after Warriors trade

Siegel said the Grizzlies had a request for a haul that consisted of an enticing package of players, and most importantly, three draft picks, but the Warriors were unwilling to give up that much draft capital.

We were able to get the framework on what the Warriors' best offer was for Jackson Jr., as Siegel detailed it to be "some variation of two clear draft picks, some sort of swap, Kuminga, Buddy Hield, and another contract for salary purposes."

The Warriors ultimately parted ways with Kuminga and Hield in the Porzingis trade, but the extra assets appear to be what they were unsteady about giving up.

MORE: Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo puts out hilarious social media post after NBA trade deadline

Lastly, Siegel said the Grizzlies had interest in Moses Moody, but that Golden State was reluctant to part ways with him and the draft capital they were asking for.

It certainly could have been a very different deadline if the Warriors struck on a deal for Jackson Jr., but it appears they were satisfied with a less risky move in the end, which was Porzingis.

Although the Warriors want to be competitive, especially while Steph Curry and Draymond Green are playing, they are aware of the value of draft picks further down the line, which in the end was enough to prevent them from making a risky trade for Jackson Jr.

More NBA articles:

• Hornets trade for guard who once had 17 assists in a single game
• Grizzlies offseason plans for Ja Morant revealed, less than a day after trade deadline
• Bucks acquire 6-foot-11 center after shutting down trade offers on Giannis Antetokounmpo
• Celtics trade away 6-foot-8 former NBA champion
• Timberwolves to sign guard less than 48 hours after trading him
• Pistons' Isaiah Stewart explains why he got involved in a fight against the Hornets

Carlton Davis III sees the New England Patriots as a hot destination for upcoming free agents to desire playing for in 2026.

The Patriots advanced to the Super Bowl this year, losing to the Seattle Seahawks 29-13. Davis III started all 17 games of the regular season, as well as all four games in the 2025 NFL playoffs at cornerback. The 29-year-old finished with two interceptions in the postseason. Despite the loss, the Patriots went 9-0 on the road, regular season and playoffs included. New England became AFC champions behind AP NFL MVP runner-up Drake Maye.

According to Sports Illustrated’s Mike Kadlick, Davis III believes the Patriots offer a fun, winning culture for players to want to join in the offseason:

“Why wouldn’t you want to be here if we’re gonna compete for championships? We’re gonna win games and we have a good time doing it… I don’t see a reason why you wouldn’t wanna play here,” Davis said.

Patriots linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson, defensive lineman Khyiris Tonga, safety Jaylinn Hawkins, as well as offensive tackle Thayer Munford Jr., will all be unrestricted free agents when the market opens for players to start signing with teams on March 11. According to Over the Cap, New England has $42.7 million in cap space for 2026 to strengthen their roster for another hopeful run to the Super Bowl next season.

Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook.

This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Carlton Davis thinks Patriots should be top free agent destination

Seahawks urged to re-sign offensive playmaker that's not Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Seattle Seahawks are Super Bowl 60 champions. It's an incredible accomplishment, and it's their second Super Bowl title in franchise history.

But now that the Super Bowl is past them, the Seahawks have more work to do regarding their offseason plan. Free agents, trades, and the NFL Draft are all coming up shortly, and those decisions will be major ones.

Kenneth Walker, the Super Bowl MVP, is a free agent, and a big looming decision for the Seahawks. And while ESPN's Brady Henderson has an offensive player as the Seahawks top priority this offseason, it's not Walker.

Seahawks' top offseason priority isn't Kenneth Walker, but another offensive player

"What is their top offseason priority?" Henderson writes. "Te-sign wide receiver Rashid Shaheed. The Seahawks have other key unrestricted free agents... But arguably none would be as hard to replace as Shaheed, a productive No. 2 receiver and a Pro Bowl kick returner."

With Walker a free agent, along with Coby Bryant, Tariq Woolen, and a few other key players on the defensive side of the ball hitting free agency, Hendrson believes Shaheed is the top priority for the Seahawks this offseason.

The reason is clear: it's a whole lot more difficult to find a player like Shaheed than it is to find a good cornerback, running back, or safety.

More: Who won Super Bowl MVP in 2026? Kenneth Walker III wins honor in commanding Seahawks win

Bryant and Woolen are great players, and the Seahawks have the money to bring them back. But, Henderson believes Shaheed signing an extension should be the Seahawks top priority this offseason.

Running backs are especially easy to come by, and there will be plenty of solid free agent options this offseason. J.K. Dobbins, Rico Dowdle, Travis Etienne Jr., and Breece Hall are just a few of the alternative options for the Seahawks.

Narratively, letting Walker walk after his Super Bowl MVP would be a mistake. Seattle's front office should re-sign Walker this offseason.

But the order of operations, at least for Henderson, should begin with re-signing Shaheed to a long-term extension to keep one of the more explosive playmakers in Seattle.

More Seahawks news:

• Seahawks get $43 million contract projection on Coby Bryant ahead of Super Bowl
• Seahawks Super Bowl parade 2026 time, route and how to watch Seattle celebration
• What's the NFL record for most sacks in a single Super Bowl game?
• Who won the Super Bowl 2026? Final score, results as Sam Darnold, Seahawks rout Patriots
• How Seahawks built Super Bowl 60 roster, from Sam Darnold signing to 'Dark Side' defense
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Something very uncommon happened to me while browsing my totally illegal streaming service of choice to find the Juventus game this past weekend. In a truly shocking turn of events, I wasn’t tuning in just for the responsibility I have as a writer of your friendly neighborhood blog BWRAO. It wasn’t something I needed to watch because I’m nothing if not a diligent journalist with integrity and morals.

I don’t just write hot fiery takes in this here blog. I write correct, well-researched, accurate takes thank you very much.

I was tuning in because I was legitimately excited and looking forward to watching my team. Ladies and gentlemen, they let Juventus be a fun team again. The fools, the absolute fools.

Notice I said, fun, not great … yet. The baffling defeat against Cagliari, the Coppa Italia elimination by a not-very-impressive Atalanta side, the draw against an extremely mid Lazio side and the wasted opportunity against AS Monaco in Champions League — with a decent chance at the time to get into the top eight and an automatic berth into the round of 16 — are proof that this team is not quite there yet in terms of consistency.

But man, when it’s fun, it’s fun, isn’t it? They can play good, fun ball. Juventus throttled Napoli, Cremonese and Parma in Serie A and convincingly beat Benfica in Europe during that same time period. And did it all with a combined 14-1 scoreline.

(How fun is it to beat the brakes out of Napoli again? A lot. Was it a tad bit more fun to do it with Antonio Conte patrolling the touchlines for the south siders? Yes, yes it was.)

Again, a seriously challenging team does not drop points the way Juventus have, and if we are realistic the Serie A title looks all but done with Inter Milan holding a 12-point advantage over the Bianconeri. But the fact that Juventus is playing well is not something we have seen too much recently.

Consider me … intrigued, Mr. Spalletti.

(The closest pursuer to Inter? Their crosstown rival, the Max Allegri-led AC Milan! Good luck, I did not throw out my massive Allegri tifo.)

Let’s cook.

Having a good time

Not every team with gimmicks is a good team. But every good team has gimmicks.

I have no scientific evidence of this statement, but it feels true, right? I think it’s just a natural consequence of a place with good chemistry. Very often, you end up spending a ton of time with the people you work with. Inside jokes, traditions, rituals. They all start to naturally develop in these environments and you can tell something like that is happening with this Juventus team. You start seeing the group celebrations, players having their own silly little gestures and things that everyone on the team joins in. These are all good things.

Are they a bit dumb, sometimes even going into the realm of cringey? Of course they are, but that’s the point! The entire concept of an inside joke is that everyone not in on it doesn’t get it.

(Also, I’m 32 years old, officially older than all but three (3) active players in the Juventus squad. It is natural and logical that I find that the silly things younger people do are kind of dumb. They are not for me, it’s fine. Have fun, young guns.)

(Arek Milik, Carlo Pinsoglio and Mattia Perin are the three players older than me, for what that’s worth. I’m playing a bit fast and loose with the definition of “active” players, I understand that.)

Let’s not forget that there is a direct correlation between Juventus having players doing silly celebrations with signature moves and the Bianconeri being a good football team. Have we forgotten about the Dybala Mask? Paul Pogba’s Dab? Cristiano Ronaldo’s SIUUUU? All stupid to various degrees, all relevant to the team being successful. When we don’t have that the team loses, this is all very scientific.

I, for one, welcome all the silly gimmicks that our players want to do, if we are not going to be in any sort of title race, at least let’s have some fun doing it.

Starboy

Speaking of contrived celebrations!

There is no scenario in which renewing Kenan Yildiz to a contract through 2030 is not good news for Juventus. Despite his young age, Yildiz has already shown enough this season to prove that he is not only the future of this club but the present as well. The fact that they could re-sign him until the end of the decade while also not paying him anywhere near a massive deal shows me two things.

Juventus, despite everything, is still a destination type of club that can tie up top-tier talent that is coveted by every club in Europe. There is finally a player that is worth building around for the upcoming years.

This is no small thing. Really ever since Ronaldo left the team, there hasn’t been a true game-breaking type of player in Juve’s employment and definitely not one that combines Yildiz’s talent with his age. If everything goes right, we are talking about someone who has the potential to lead this team for the next ten years, at least.             

Of course, signing Yildiz is the first step. In today’s game it’s hard — or impossible — to hold on to elite talent if you are not consistently challenging for silverware. Juventus is just not at a stage where they can be characterized as a team that will challenge for those accolades every year so Yildiz might be a lifelong Juventus fan all he wants but if this current trend continues for a couple more years, how long do you think it will take for the Turkish star to get a wandering eye around Europe?

All that being said, it’s much easier to start building the next great iteration of the Bianconeri with the angular rock set in place.  

Parting Shot of the Week

Thanks to Atalanta shellacking Juventus a week ago, the Bianconeri were unceremoniously dumped out of the Coppa Italia. The domestic cup competition is always important if you win it and very easy to disregard if you lose it, then again, for a “big” club you should aim to win every competition you participate in.

We are very far from the halcyon days of last decade when anything outside of a domestic double was seen as an irredeemable failure of a year, but at least on paper, the fact that Juventus is staring straight at the barrel of another season with no realistic chance at lifting a major trophy should raise some red flags.

(In theory, it’s a possibility that Juventus makes a miracle run in the Champions League, sure. Inter could also self-destruct in league play, but both those scenarios look pretty unlikely, as fun as it would be especially to see Inter Milan choke the title away.)

Spalletti has managed to right the ship and as previously discussed it has been more fun to see this team play recently, but at some point the expectation should be higher for a club with Juve’s pedigree. Because if you don’t, well, you blink and you have almost the exact same amount of major trophy wins this decade as Manchester United. You never want to be in that spot.

(Man United has won two domestic cups to Juve’s two domestic cups. However, the Bianconeri also claim a Supercoppa victory which in theory counts as a major trophy. Yup, we have been exactly one Supercoppa better than the poster club of mismanagement and inadequacy.Whether the Supercoppa should count as a major trophy is a subject for another day.)

See you next time.

England Test captain Ben Stokes has successfully undergone surgery for a facial injury, he confirmed on social media.

The 34-year-old all-rounder posted an image on Instagram showing his bruised and swollen right eye and cheek, accompanied by the message: "May not look like it… but the surgery was a success."

Stokes had earlier this month disclosed he was hit in the face by a ball, sharing an initial photograph with the caption, "You should see the state of the cricket ball."

It was later reported he sustained the injury while coaching academy players at Durham’s indoor cricket centre.

His return to England follows the 4-1 Ashes series defeat in Australia over the winter, a tour currently subject to an extensive review.

While his future leadership has faced scrutiny, England coach Brendan McCullum has labelled some of the fallout as "out of order”.

England had headed Down Under with high hopes of claiming a first series win in Australia since 2010/11.

However, they lost the opening three Tests in Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide as Australia wrapped up a series victory inside 11 days of cricket.

Stokes’ men did pick up a consolation win in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, coming out on the right side of a thrilling two-day match.

However, the series ended on a low as England suffered another defeat in Sydney.

Stokes is now recovering at home while some of his team-mates headed on to a subsequent limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka before playing in the T20 World Cup.

England survived a major scare in their first match of the tournament on Sunday, beating Nepal by four runs. They play their second game against West Indies on Wednesday.

Stokes is anticipated to play for Durham in the initial County Championship rounds before England commence their Test summer against New Zealand at Lord’s on June 4.

King Leatherbury, a Hall of Fame trainer known as “King of the Claimers” for his ability to turn cheaper horses in lower-level claiming races into winners for more than six decades, died Tuesday. He was 92.

He died at his home, according to the Maryland Jockey Club, which was informed by his son Taylor Leatherbury. No cause of death was provided.

Leatherbury retired in 2023 as the third trainer in history, behind Dale Baird and Jack Van Berg, to win at least 6,000 races. His final total was 6,508 to go with purse earnings of $64,693,537, according to Equibase. He won 52 training titles in Maryland — 26 each at Pimlico and Laurel — and four at Delaware Park.

“He’s one of a kind,” Taylor Leatherbury told Laurel Park. ”There’s never been a man more appropriately named than my father.”

Leatherbury, along with fellow Hall of Famer Bud Delp, Richard Dutrow Sr., and John Tammaro Jr., were known as the Big Four of Maryland racing. They dominated the state in the 1960s and '70s and helped modernize training of thoroughbreds for speed and stamina.

“I really enjoyed the days of the Big Four,” Leatherbury told Laurel Park in 2013. "It was fun trying to compete with them and it made us all better trainers.”

Leatherbury led North American trainers in wins in 1977 and 1978, and won 300 or more races each year from 1975 to 1978.

He was a first-ballot inductee to the National Museum of Racing’s Hall of Fame in 2015.

Leatherbury saddled one horse in the Kentucky Derby, with I Am the Game finishing 13th in 1985. That horse was fourth in the Preakness that year, one of Leatherbury's four starters in the second leg of the Triple Crown.

A Maryland native, Leatherbury took out his trainer's license in 1958 and won his first race the next year at Sunland Park, now known as Tampa Bay Downs.

"I got started because my father had horses, a breeder and owner and I just enjoyed betting on them, really, so I decided to get in the game,” Leatherbury told Laurel Park in 2013. “I have never really considered this work. I enjoy it, which has probably made the difference.”

After earning a business administration degree from the University of Maryland, he mastered the claiming game, in which owners buy horses from designated races for a specific price, by studying race charts and past performance statistics. He did much of his work from home rather than at his barn, where a devoted staff carried out his orders.

“Back in those days, the early '60s, no one claimed horses,” Leatherbury told The Washington Post in 2005. “Those were the days people started managing horses in a business-like way.”

The best horse of Leatherbury’s career was Ben’s Cat, whom he bred, owned and trained to 32 wins — 26 in stakes races — and more than $2.6 million in purse earnings from 2010-17. Ben’s Cat died in 2017 and his remains are buried near the paddock at Laurel.

He also trained Grade 1 winners Catatonic and Taking Risks. He claimed Port Conway Lane three times, and the horse won 52 of 242 starts from 1971 to 1983, racing until age 14.

He is survived by Linda, his wife of 62 years, and twin sons Taylor and Todd.

___

AP horse racing: https://apnews.com/hub/horse-racing

The NASCAR Cup season officially gets underway this weekend with the 68th running of the Daytona 500 on February 15.

Before that, NASCAR sent eighth-generation watermelon farmer and Trackhouse Racing star Ross Chastain to New York City for a very unique activation.

As part of the sport's new 'Hell Yeah' campaign, NASCAR fitted a mock 1:1 replica of a Chevrolet Cup engine to a billboard, complete with sound, and set a Guinness World Record for the world's loudest billboard. The engine was built in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, while both Hendrick and ECR Engines helped to ensure authenticity. 

This morning in Times Square, @NASCAR set the @GWR for the loudest billboard! 🔊

To celebrate, we got a watermelon smash from Ross Chastain! pic.twitter.com/XtNYqeeicp

— Motorsport (@Motorsport) February 10, 2026

"Setting a Guinness World Records title is a proud moment for our sport and serves as a bold statement to get the 2026 season started,” said Tim Clark, NASCAR’s Chief Brand Officer. “The billboard puts the visceral energy of NASCAR front and center and invites everyone to experience what makes our sport so unique.”

Chastain pushed the button and mashed the gas to set the new record, and just as he does after every race win, proceeded to smash a celebratory watermelon -- but this time in the middle of Times Square. The engine reached 133.7 decibels with smoke billowing from the billboard, smashing the previous record of 100 decibels. A representative from GWR was on site to measure the attempt and certify the new record. They then presented Chastain with an official plaque.

NASCAR is aiming to get back to its roots this year, while also putting the sport in front of new eyeballs with its 2026 marketing strategy. A recent high-energy commercial that has been positively received is also part of this 'Hell Yeah' campaign.

Watch: Watch Super Bowl Sunday ad that put NASCAR's 'Hell Yeah!' attitude on display

To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.

After tragedy nearly made him step away from the sport, Maxim Naumov made his Olympic debut in men’s figure skating.

Ones to Watch: Max Naumov

Naumov skated to Chopin’s Nocturne No. 20 in the qualification round.

While scores were read, Naumov held up a childhood photo of himself and his parents, who died in a plane crash outside of Washington, D.C., last year.

Maxim Naumov is an Olympian, and ALWAYS will be! 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/KC3zFj5hjf

— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) February 10, 2026

According to NBC, Naumov scored 85.65, a new season’s best.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

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There's an incredible amount of interest in a 200-game Liverpool star. Clubs are in contact.

The January transfer window has been shut for a week now but that only means clubs are fully focused on what's to come this summer. And Liverpool will absolutely be busy.

For one, last summer's transfers simply haven't delivered the squad they want. The Reds spent enormous amounts in an attempt to improve a title-winning group. Instead, things have gone backwards.

Not only that, but Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate are out of contract this summer. Both will need replacing if they don't agree to new deals with the club.

Then there's the fact that interest from Saudi Arabia has returned for Mo Salah. That promises to be possibly the biggest decision the club or Salah faces in 2026.

He's far from the only one with interest in him, however.

Curtis Jones is a wanted man

There's significant interest in Curtis Jones heading into the summer transfer window. The Scouser will enter the final year of his contract, sparking a rush for his services.

Of course, there was an offer in January. Inter tried to get him on loan with a buy option, while Tottenham Hotspur considered a move before signing Conor Gallagher.

Boca Juniors dreams of bringing Paulo Dybala back home

Paulo Dybala, 32, could soon be heading back to Argentina. The forward, who has spent the last three and a half years at AS Roma, currently earns an annual salary of €8.5 million, including bonuses.

Facing the need to cut costs, the Italian club is now only offering a contract extension worth €4 million per year—a reduction of over 50%. This significant pay cut could prompt Dybala to consider leaving.

Boca Juniors, the club where Dybala began his career, is closely monitoring the negotiations and, according to expert Ekrem Konur, is preparing an offer for the summer transfer window. The Argentine giants are eager to seize this opportunity to bring back one of their former stars and thrill their fans with the long-awaited return of “La Joya.”

Francisco Lindor has a stress reaction in his left hamate bone, New York Mets president David Stearns said Feb. 10, and the All-Star shortstop is expected to miss six weeks, putting his status for Opening Day in doubt.

Lindor, 32, had already been ruled out of competing for Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic due to insurance concerns regarding past offseason surgeries, but Stearns said this injury emerged recently and wasn't part of the WBC decision. Lindor will see a hand specialist Feb. 11, says Stearns, which should determine whether Lindor requires surgery.

Hitters often have surgery to remove the hamate bone once it fractures, with recoveries ranging from a few weeks to a couple of months. Lindor is coming off his fifth All-Star season, and the fourth consecutive year he's finished in the National League's top 10 in MVP voting.

"Knowing Francisco, I’m optimistic, even if he has to go the surgery route," Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said on a video call with news reporters. "Found out a couple days ago and didn’t think much of it because this is a guy who’s played through a lot. For him to say something this early, I was like, hmm.

"But if he has to go that route, I’m optimistic he’ll play shortstop for us on Opening Day."

Meanwhile, Mendoza confirmed that Juan Soto will move from right to left field this year, a move that evolved from conversations they had about him playing left for the Dominican Republic in next month's WBC.

The Mets acquired Luis Robert to play center field, and Soto − in the second year of a 15-year, $765 million contract − might be better suited for left, anyway. Former center fielder Tyrone Taylor and rookie Carson Benge are, for now, expected to command most of the playing time in right field.

"I asked him, 'How would you feel playing left field for us?" Mendoza said. "He said, 'I'm willing to do whatever. If you want me to pitch, Mendy, I'll pitch.' I asked if it made sense for both.

"He said, 'Absolutely.'"

The Mets won 83 games but missed out on a playoff berth by one game last season.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Francisco Lindor hamate bone injury news, updates

Jim Shank, a beloved, longtime WWE production employee, died last week after a battle with colorectal cancer, and various members of the WWE roster and corporate office paid tribute to him on Monday. "WWE Raw" went off the air with a graphic remembering Shank, who worked for WWE for over 26 years, according to PWInsider.

Paul "Triple H" Levesque posted to X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, sharing the graphic that aired following "Raw." He wrote that Shank was a "fixture backstage and an incredible teammate," and someone who helped "create the magic" during WWE shows.

"Raw" General Manager Adam Pearce called Shank, who was WWE's Technical Operations Manager, an "unsung hero" in a post to X. He thanked Shank for his friendship. Both Rusev and Nattie also shared tributes to Shank on their own X accounts, with Rusev also sharing the graphic. Like Pearce, Nattie also called him an "unsung hero" behind-the-scenes.

"Jim was always thinking of others, always showing up for everyone else," Nattie wrote. "His memory will stay in our hearts."

Godspeed, Jim Shank.

WWE has many unsung heroes: Incredible men and women that perhaps aren't seen on screen, yet truly make everything we do shine. Jim is unquestionably one of those, and has been a respected member of our family for years.

I thank you, Jimmy... for your... pic.twitter.com/OYK9YBV5lZ

— Adam Pearce (@ScrapDaddyAP) February 10, 2026

World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk shared the "RIP" graphic to his Instagram story on Monday. "Rest easy my friend," Punk wrote, accompanied by the saluting emoji

According to PWInsider, Shank celebrated his 60th birthday in January. He started with WWE during the Attitude Era when he joined the company in November 1999. In 2025, WWE employees, as well as and friends and family, of Shank raised over $200,000 to help him with a new therapy for his treatment. PWI reported that former WWE chairman Vince McMahon contributed over $122,000 to the GoFundMe.

Read more: What These Famous 70s Wrestlers Are Doing Today

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Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.

Speaking from Radio Row ahead of Super Bowl LX, Brandon Graham reconnected with former teammates Chris Long and Beau Allen on his ‘Brandon Graham Unblocked’ podcast, and gave an update on his retirement status.

“If Howie [Roseman] makes that call, I’m coming back, one more.”

Graham talked about coming in halfway through last season and having to learn some new techniques when he moved inside. Still, he had fresh legs after resting most of the year, and was able to have a huge impact. He noted that it was a great group of guys on defense that weren’t selfish for a stat line and all worked together, which resulted in BG’s impressive sack numbers in just a few games.

The veteran also talked a bit about how the Eagles will have to pay Jalen Carter big money soon and how that will affect some upcoming roster decisions. He quipped that Jaelan Phillips, Reed Blankenship, and one other contract would combine to total what the organization will need to pay Carter.

If the only thing BG needs to come back is an invite from Howie, the Eagles GM should absolutely make the call. He’s earned the opportunity to come back, was still playing at an elite level, and is probably a much cheaper option when considering the salary cap.

Do you want Brandon Graham back for one more season? Or should the team allocate that salary elsewhere? Let’s talk about it in the comments!

If you are wholly unfamiliar with how Major League Baseball arbitration cases work, this headline could sound somewhat ominous. The reality, though, is that MLB’s arb system is something of a binary system if salaries for eligible players are not hammered out and finalized by a certain date, and an independent arbiter simply gets to pick which side – the player, or the team – has a number that is most deserved.

That’s precisely what went down today between Tyler Stephenson and the Cincinnati Reds. The team’s veteran catcher had submitted a $6.8 million request for the upcoming 2026 season, and the Reds had come in with a $6.55 million number, and despite those two being incredibly close (by baseball salary standards) it was up to an arbiter to decide between the two. And, as MLB.com’s Mark Sheldon relayed, they picked Stephenson’s $6.8 million mark.

The $250K is even less significant in the grand scheme given that the 2026 season will be Stephenson’s final year of team control before he reaches free agency. Since arb salaries become benchmarks on which future year salaries are built, a difference of even that amount in a first year of arbitration could end up escalating further in each of the subsequent trips through the process, but in Stephenson’s case, this is obviously the last time he’ll be doing that.

It remains to be seen whether this February will also be the final time he reports to Goodyear, Arizona as a catcher in a Reds uniform. The Reds went out and acquired Jose Trevino this time last winter to augment the catching mix and immediately signed him to a contract extension through at least 2027 (and potentially 2028), and top catching prospect Alfredo Duno has rocketed up the rankings after his monster 2025 in the minors. That means the writing may be on the wall for Cincinnati’s 1st round pick from back in 2015, but it could also be the right kind of fuel for him to do everything he can to have a monster platform season in 2026 before hitting free agency.

Regardless, one final, major piece of the roster puzzle for 2026 has been adjudicated.

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We have an action-packed episode of 'The Dunker Spot' coming your way!

To kick us off, Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones take a look at how the big movers from the trade deadline have already affected their new squads. James Harden making his impact on Cleveland, Jaren Jackson Jr. doing what he can on a tanking Utah and more!

From there, the fellas dive into the fracas from the Charlotte Hornets and Detroit Pistons matchup, where the Hornets also saw their 9-game win streak snapped.

Finally, to round out the show, Nekias and Steve break down all the Unrivaled action from the weekend, break down a trade, and preview the highly anticipated 1-on-1 tournament.

If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.

1:24 James Harden debuts with Cavs
11:57 Jaren Jackson Jr. debuts with Jazz
18:43 NBA tanking?
24:36 Nikola Vucevic debuts with Celtics
33:25 Jose Alvarado debuts with Knicks
38:09 Ayo Dosunmu debuts with Timberwolves
46:20 Chicago Bulls’ newest guards
51:29 Jared McCain debuts with OKC
54:00 Pistons vs. Hornets brawl
57:41 Cam Thomas debuts with Bucks
1:00:26 Unrivaled thoughts & takeaways

David Zalubowski

🖥️ Watch this full episode on the Yahoo Sports NBA YouTube channel

Check out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Indiana men’s basketball has extended its latest offer in the high school class of 2028 as head coach Darian DeVries and staff look to the future.

Michai White, the No. 1 point guard prospect in the class of 2028 as of this writing per the 247Sports Composite, landed an offer from the Hoosiers per Dushawn London of 247Sports. He attends Brewster Academy in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, and has offers from Louisville, Northwestern and Stanford, among others. Indiana is one of his earlier offers.

White attended St. Benedict’s Preparatory School in Newark, New Jersey, prior as a freshman last season. Notable alumni of Brewster Academy include Donovan Mitchell, TJ Warren, Matas Buzelis, Devin Carter and current Hoosier Reed Bailey.

Indiana’s staff has a few connections to former Brewster players outside of Bailey. Former Brewster guard Mason Moses spent one year with Kenny Johnson at Georgetown last season and Tennessee forward JP Estrella signed with the Volunteers during Rod Clark’s time on staff.

The Hoosiers’ other offers in 2028 are both 5-star small forwards: AJ Williams out of Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy in McDonogh, Georgia, and Colton Hiller out of Coatesville Area Senior High School in Coatesville, Pennsylvania.

LOS ANGELES − Director Tyree Dillihay pushed Stephen Curry hard making the animated movie "GOAT" (in theaters Feb. 13) − so hard that the two-time NBA All-Star MVP cracked, at least vocally.

Curry was so "fully committed" to the vocal performance of rebounding and rapping giraffe Lenny Williamson that the Golden State Warrior's voice squeaked in the recording studio, says Dillihay. And it was awesome.

"There’s a line about Lenny and his sick rhymes, and I took my voice up, and it cracked," Curry told USA TODAY at the "GOAT" world premiere on Feb. 6. "And (Dillihay) loved it. He started laughing."

After some discussion, the goof seemed so good that Dillihay and Curry, a producer on the movie, opted to keep it in. The decision came after consultation with Stephen's wife of 14 years, Ayesha Curry, who voices a goat named Carol.

Exclusive: Stephen Curry says 'GOAT' 'brings family together'

"Ayesha was like, 'Keep the audience guessing if that was me,' " says Curry.

Oh, it's him. And we have proof with the clip. Curry says voice work is all part of learning the business as Unanimous Media, his production company with Erick Peyton, takes flight.

"It was cool to collaborate with (Dillihay) in the studio, and see what kind of range I had as a voice actor," says Curry. "It was challenging but it was fun."

Stephen also "1,000 percent" sought advice from Ayesha during the process, running lines with the more experienced actress.

"I actually got to watch one of her (vocal) sessions before I went," says Curry. "She has been acting her whole life and is the talented one in this space So she kind of broke the ice for me, which was cool."

The voice cast of the family-friendly sports comedy includes Gabrielle Union, Nick Kroll, David Harbour and Andrew Santino. The animated underdog film follows a determined young goat, Will Harris (Caleb McLaughlin), who dreams of making it big in an ultra-competitive animal sports league, pushing past doubters to play pro roarball.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Steph Curry's voice cracked making 'GOAT' and wife Ayesha loved it

Former LSU Tigers linebacker Greg Penn always felt like an extra coach on the field due to his high football IQ. Now, he's becoming the real thing.

Matt Moscona of LouisianaSports.net broke the news on Monday night that Penn would be joining Lane Kiffin's Tigers staff as a defensive analyst.

The linebacker spent a full four years on the LSU roster as a player, joining as a four-star recruit from the 2021 class. He was the No. 221 overall recruit in the country, No. 23 linebacker and No. 10 player out of Maryland per the 247Sports rankings.

He wasn't someone who raked in a ton of accolades throughout his career, but was always a solid player. It's probably why his career evolved into coaching. He had the instincts, but didn't test well athletically and never made it to the NFL.

Penn did have 264 tackles across his Tigers career. He had 17.5 go for a loss with 5.5 sacks, two interceptions, three forced fumbles and four passes broken up. There was an argument to be made for him being All-SEC in 2023, but that was a stacked year, and Harold Perkins had all the attention from LSU.

The biggest accomplishment of his playing career was earning the No. 18 over his final season, proving his leadership and the respect he had earned from his teammates/coaches.

He should fit right in and will be able to learn from a fantastic linebackers coach in Blake Baker during his first year on the staff.

It appears that he will be replacing another former Tigers player, as Moscona also reported that Jermauria Rasco will be leaving his defensive analyst role for a defensive line assistant role with the Mississippi State Bulldogs.

Rasco joined LSU's staff in 2024. He has also coached for the Arizona Wildcats and the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin' Cajuns. He played for LSU from 2011 to 2014.

Nearly four months after his first UFC title defense ended in trauma, Tom Aspinall is still trying to get his vision back to full strength.

UFC heavyweight champ Aspinall (15-3 MMA, 8-1 UFC) was badly poked in the eyes by Ciryl Gane (13-2 MMA, 10-2 UFC) at UFC 321 in October, resulting in a no contest and leading to significant complications for the Brit.

There's no certainties around Aspinall's UFC future, but it's clear he is trying to get back to 100 percent, and on February shared a medical update confirming he has completed a surgical procedure on both eyes (via Instagram):

View this post on Instagram

The statement from Aspinall's medical team at Optegra indicated the UFC champ will be working toward returning to competition, which would likely set up an immediate rematch with Gane.

Aspinall has minced no words on his feelings about his French rival, and said he will make him pay for cheating in the first fight.

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: UFC champion Tom Aspinall completes double eye surgery

Tottenham vs. Newcastle score, stats, talking points, highlights as Thiaw puts Toon ahead against sorry Spurs originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

JUMP TO:

• Tottenham vs. Newcastle score
• Tottenham vs. Newcastle key moments, updates
• Tottenham vs. Newcastle team news
• Tottenham vs. Newcastle upcoming fixtures

Two Premier League teams absolutely desperate for points at all costs will clash in London as Tottenham host Newcastle on Tuesday.

Both clubs are suffering through poor runs of form and are in need of any positive results, giving this match a nervy and tense feel.

The hosts are in the most dire situation, languishing 15th in the league standings, just six points above the drop as Thomas Frank is on thin ice at Spurs.

For Eddie Howe and the visiting Magpies, they aren't under threat of relegation, but their position in 12th leaves their chances of qualifying for Europe next season on life support. Their total of 33 points through 25 matches puts them 10 points back of fifth-place Chelsea, meaning a shot at a Champions League place next year is almost certainly out of the question.

The Sporting News is following the Tottenham vs. Newcastle match live, providing score updates, commentary, and analysis.

MORE:Busting the myth that Arsenal are "boring" with their set-piece focus in the new tactical meta

Tottenham vs. Newcastle live score

Location: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (London, England)
Referee: Anthony Taylor

Keep track of every game and every goal via SN's live Premier League scoreboard.

Starting lineups:

Tottenham (4-3-2-1, right to left): Vicario (GK) — Gray, Dragusin, Van de Ven, Spence — Sarr, Bissouma, Gallagher — Odobert, Simons — Solanke

Newcastle (4-3-3, right to left): Pope (GK) — Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Hall — Guimaraes, Ramsey, Willock — Elanga, Gordon, Barnes.

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Tottenham vs. Newcastle talking points, analysis

Following the game, this section will be updated with analysis of the Tottenham vs. Newcastle match.

Tottenham vs. Newcastle key moments

1 hour to kickoff: Let's have a look at the starting lineups. Dan Burn, Jacob Ramsey and Anthony Elanga all come back in for Newcastle, who have Anthony Gordon leading the line and both Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade on the bench.

How we line-up at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this evening 💪 pic.twitter.com/gatlQw67nX

— Newcastle United (@NUFC) February 10, 2026

Radu Dragusin comes in for suspended Tottenham captain Cristian Romero, while Djed Spence is fit to start and Yves Bissouma slots into the midfield.

Our team to take on Newcastle 👊

🔢 @krakenfxpic.twitter.com/ZCYhZxhx6F

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) February 10, 2026

2 hours to kickoff: For the second straight season, Tottenham are experiencing polar opposite fortunes in Premier League and European competitions. While they sit 15th in the Premier League table 25 matches into Thomas Frank's debut season, they managed to secure a fourth-place finish in the league phase of Champions League action.

That's key for Frank who now gets room to breathe as they recover their Premier League position, not scheduled to compete in the Round of 16 in Europe until the middle of March. Thanks to their early FA Cup exit, Spurs won't play again after this match until February 22.

With a debilitatingly long injury list to push through, that extra time will be vital to get the squad back closer to full fitness.

Tottenham vs. Newcastle reaction

Following the game, this section will be updated with post-match reaction from Thomas Frank, Eddie Howe, and players.

Tottenham vs. Newcastle team news

Tottenham team news

MORE:An in-depth rundown of all the latest Tottenham team news and injuries

• Cristian Romero is suspended for four matches after his red card last time out against Manchester United. His challenge on Casemiro was deemed serious foul play, meaning a three-match ban. An additional game is added on to the suspension because it was Romero's second Premier League red card of the season.
• Destiny Udogie, Kevin Danso, Pedro Porro, and Djed Spence are all dealing with injuries. Spence is the only one with a chance to play in this match, while the others need a few more weeks.
• Long-term absentees include Rodrigo Bentancur, Mohammed Kudus, Lucas Bergvall and James Maddison, all of whom need until at least April before returning, if not longer.

Newcastle team news

• Anthony Gordon and Lewis Miley are both considered game-time decisions, with the former recovering from a minor hamstring injury and the latter working through a dead leg.
• Joelinton will not take part in this match, Eddie Howe confirmed, as he battles back from a groin injury.
• Tino Livramento, Fabian Schar, and Emil Krafth are also out, with the latter potentially back soon while the other two need significantly more time before returning.

Tottenham, Newcastle upcoming schedules

Tottenham upcoming fixtures

Newcastle upcoming fixtures

Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo has given a new interview where he has discussed his mental health issues after taking a break earlier in the season.

Araujo was granted a leave of absence after being sent off in Barcelona’s Champions League defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

The defender has been asked about that game and says that after he was sent off he realised that he had been struggling with his mental health for some time and needed some help.

“In the moment, with the adrenaline rush, you just go for it. You feel sad, but then, when the game is over, it all comes crashing down on you. I already felt like I wasn’t okay, that’s the truth, but out of habit you try to keep going, and sometimes you need help,“ he told Mundo Deportivo.

“I’d been dealing with anxiety for a year and a half that turned into depression, and I was playing like that. That doesn’t help, because on the field you don’t really feel like yourself. You know your worth and what you can contribute on the field, and when I wasn’t feeling well, I knew something was wrong. That day I realized that was it, that I needed to talk to professionals and the club so they could help me.”

Araujo visited Israel in search of some spiritual guidance during his time away from Barcelona and has revealed why he needed to take a break from football.

“Things have changed quite a bit because I’ve learned so much during this time. I think it was the right thing to do after that decision I made. I feel different and I’m happy about it, because I’m more at ease, happier. I can enjoy what I love to do, which is playing football, and that helps a lot,” he added.

“Well, it’s different… you see things from another perspective. I felt like the worst of the worst was over, and now I see things differently. The time I took off was for a reason, because in the end I was able to work through it with professionals, with my family, and spiritually, which is what I needed. So I think that did me a lot of good, and today I feel like a completely different person.

“The time I took off was for a reason, because in the end I was able to work through it with professionals, with my family, and spiritually, which is what I needed. So I think that did me a lot of good, and today I feel like a completely different person.”

Arauoj has since returned to action with Barcelona and scored his first goal since his comeback in the Copa del Rey win over Albacete.

SUNDERLAND VS. LIVERPOOL

| Wednesday, February 11th |
Premier League | Stadium of Light
8:15PM BST/3:15PM EST

Sunderland are unbeaten at home, and are the only Premier League team able to claim such a record. Indeed, their unbeaten home record is the longest by a newly promoted side since Nottingham Forest’s 21-game-streak in the 1977-78 season (yes, they went unbeaten all season at home and then won the title). They come into this match sitting 9th on the table in comparison to Liverpool’s 6th, but it’s apparent which team is more pleased with the current state of affairs. Nonetheless, they’ve had a mixed run in the last five, losing last match against Arsenal 3-0 after beating Burnley by the same scoreline the match previous. Shockingly they subsequently lost to West Ham United after beating Crystal Palace at home: their two home games have been wins, while their away efforts resulted in two losses, having shipped three goals in each. They did beat Everton away in the FA Cup, but did so via penalties, drawing 1-1 at full time.

They’ll be pleased to have Liverpool at home is what I’m saying, as their record at the Stadium of Light is very different than their wider one; that Liverpool at present seem a team able to be got at will only spur on a home crowd under the lights. Historically, all three of Liverpool’s defeats to Sunderland in the Premier League era have come at the Stadium of Light, though their last win was back in 2012.

The Black Cats have struggled in midweek fixtures thus far this season, and likely are not built to play at these intervals — though this caveat is limited both by Liverpool’s own squad depth struggles, the fact that they played on Saturday and thus have an extra day to prepare, and the fact that their last goal in these challenging midweek fixtures came against Liverpool at Anfield. Meanwhile, Liverpool have only won two away matches this season, drawing three and losing five.

Nilson Angulo, Sunderland’s January signing, will be available for this match, and Noah Sadiki has returned to fitness and could feature as well. Bertrand Traoré remains sidelined with injury for the Black Cats, as, importantly, does captain Granit Xhaka.

Trai Hume has filled in as captain in Xhaka’s absence, and the hard-working, vocal Hume has done well to maintain Sunderland’s high standard. Xhaka’s creativity will be a continued miss for Sunderland, however, as the midfielder had been crucial for his side’s creativity in front of goal.

Brian Bobbey is Sunderland’s top scorer with five goals, while 20-year-old Chemsdine Talbi will be looking to score to make it a goal both home and away against the league champions.

Predicted Liverpool Lineup (4-3-3)

Alisson; Jones, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Wirtz, Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Ekitiké, Gakpo

Liverpool have had six players play at right back this season, but will be missing (likely) four of them given ongoing injuries to Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley, and Sunday’s suspension to Dominik Szoboszlai — the latest of Liverpool’s self-inflected wounds. Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s match, Arne Slot confirmed that Joe Gomez will train for the first time with the team on Tuesday, and could thus be involved on Wednesday night. Should be not be fit, though, Slot has confirmed that natural right back Calvin Ramsay will not be called upon, hinting instead at the other two league-used options: Curtis Jones and Wataru Endō.

This further limits Slot’s choices in midfield, as Jones would be a natural replacement for the absent Szoboszlai should the Hungarian be asked to play his more natural position. Slot will likely move Florian Wirtz into the 10 role behind a front three, but this would mean fielding his strongest starting XI — not something he’s been wont to do this season, preferring to leave at least one strong option on the bench. Federico Chiesa might play a role as the only player on the bench with senior experience, but Slot has not liked to use the Italian given any other option. Rio Ngumoha, too, will be available. (Full disclosure: I did just Google the squad list to see if it’s possible I had forgotten someone. I had hoped there was a midfielder I had forgotten. Alas.)

Liverpool have drawn their last four games against newly promoted side, and are facing the potential to go winless in five straight such meetings for the first time since 1981 — not a record the Reds will want to add to a season of frustration.

A squad stretched thin in a challenging atmosphere will want to cash in on their individual superiority early if possible, and a bright start from the Reds would go a long way toward making this one manageable. Given that the Reds have very little when it comes to reinforcements, now would certainly be a good time for attacking fluidity to come to the boil to take the pressure off a defense spread thin and characterized by lapses in concentration.

The Managers Have Their Say

Arne Slot: “But it’s not only that they [Sunderland] have a good record at home, they have had a very good season. But the record at home, I was aware of that as well. And already played against City and Arsenal at home, so that tells you how good of a season they are having and how strong and good they are at home.”

Régis Le Bris: “To be fair I think we played the game we wanted to play [in the loss v. Arsenal]. We were bold and aggressive in our high press. I think our mid-press was better compared with the home game. Our deep press was good as well but they found solutions with shots from outside the box. We had good control of the ball. The main difference was the level of threat. They were really good with that and created five or six chances while we made one and a half. It is positive as we know where we are in our journey but there’s a long way to go to achieve this challenge. It’s really positive, confidence is getting better and we have more solutions now to fix different problems.”

The Officials

Referee: Chris Kavanagh Assistants: Dan Cook, Marc Perry Fourth Official: Thomas Bramall VAR: Darren England Assistant VAR: Craig Taylor

If you haven’t done so already, we’d love if you signed up for an SB Nation account and join the community at TLO. We’ll bring you and your fellow Liverpool fans from around the world full coverage of every match from the 2025-26 season in the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cups along getting you breaking news, insight and opinion, tactical discussion, and post-match reactions as the new season plays out. Hopefully you’ll join us for it!

Lindsey Vonn suffered heartbreak in potentially her last ever Olympic event as she crashed in the women’s downhill skiing.

Vonn required surgery on a left-leg fracture from the crash in Cortina, Italy, for which she was airlifted to hospital.

It arrived shortly after the 41-year-old American ruptured ligaments in her left knee, with Vonn requiring lengthy treatment for her latest injury.

She has now addressed the disappointment, with her social media message already attracting over one million likes.

Coco Gauff inspired by Lindsey Vonn after Winter Olympics heartbreak

Vonn posted on Instagram: “Yesterday my Olympic dream did not finish the way I dreamt it would. It wasn’t a storybook ending or a fairytale, it was just life.

“I dared to dream and had worked so hard to achieve it. Because in downhill ski racing the difference between a strategic line and a catastrophic injury can be as small as 5 inches.

“I was simply 5 inches too tight on my line when my right arm hooked inside of the gate, twisting me and resulted in my crash. My ACL and past injuries had nothing to do with my crash whatsoever.

“Unfortunately, I sustained a complex tibia fracture that is currently stable but will require multiple surgeries to fix properly.

“While yesterday did not end the way I had hoped, and despite the intense physical pain it caused, I have no regrets.

“Standing in the starting gate yesterday was an incredible feeling that I will never forget. Knowing I stood there having a chance to win was a victory in and of itself.

“I also knew that racing was a risk. It always was and always will be an incredibly dangerous sport. And similar to ski racing, we take risks in life.

“We dream. We love. We jump. And sometimes we fall. Sometimes our hearts are broken. Sometimes we don’t achieve the dreams we know we could have. But that is the also the beauty of life; we can try.

“I tried. I dreamt. I jumped. I hope if you take away anything from my journey it’s that you all have the courage to dare greatly.

“Life is too short not to take chances on yourself. Because the only failure in life is not trying. I believe in you, just as you believed in me.”

The post has almost 60,000 comments, one of which from tennis superstar Coco Gauff simply read: “So inspiring.”

Her fellow tennis players Jannik Sinner and Jakub Mensik have also reacted to the post with heart emojis, which Gauff added to her words.

Coco Gauff needs inspiration after shock Qatar Open exit

It is truly inspirational from Vonn, who has enjoyed a fantastic career and will long be remembered for her fantastic achievements.

And it’s amazing to see that her motivation and determination are not only transcending her sport, but the entire sporting world.

Tennis players are just one group that she is continuing to inspire, with Vonn clearly having a big impact on her fellow American Gauff.

At 21, Gauff is at the other end of her career, although like Vonn she has already inspired plenty of others herself.

Right now, however, the youngster will be in need of motivation, having just lost her first match at the Qatar Open.

The two-time Grand Slam champion suffered a shock defeat to Elisabetta Cocciaretto, having also lost her doubles opener with Victoria Mboko in Doha.

READ MORE:Jessica Pegula ‘excited’ to return to WTA tournament that she won in 2025

The Los Angeles Chargers’ most recent addition to the coaching staff has been away from the NFL for five seasons. Adam Gase, who the Chargers are reportedly hiring as a passing game assistant coach, is a former head coach of the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets.

Gase has not coached in the NFL since the 2020 season. The Jets fired Gase after the team went 2-14 in 2020. He is now 47 years old and will make his return to NFL coaching in 2026 with the Chargers.

He is the third reported addition to the Chargers’ offensive coaching staff this offseason. Los Angeles hired Mike McDaniel as the new offensive coordinator to replace Greg Roman in January. Then, the Chargers hired Butch Barry as the offensive line coach and Max McCaffrey as the running backs coach.

Gase is believed to be replacing Marcus Brady, who was the Chargers’ passing game coordinator for two seasons. Brady is joining former Chargers defensive coordinator and now head coach Jesse Minter in the Baltimore Ravens’ coaching staff.

Gase Was One of the Top Offensive Minds in NFL in 2016

Gase was successful as an offensive coordinator for the Chicago Bears and as a quarterbacks coach for the Denver Broncos early in his career. He eventually earned his first NFL head coaching job with the Dolphins in 2016.

But Gase was not able to replicate that same level of success as a head coach. Miami fired Gase after three seasons, and the Jets fired him after two seasons. Between coaching both teams, Gase held a 32-49 record, which also included one playoff loss in 2016 with the Dolphins.

After New York fired Gase, he did not coach in the NFL for five seasons.

Now, he will return to coaching within an offensive staff and will hopefully be able to be successful like he was earlier in his career.

Photo Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

The post Chargers Hire Experienced Assistant Coach Returning to NFL After Five-Year Hiatus appeared first on LA Sports Report.

Klint Kubiak breaks silence on speculation surrounding Maxx Crosby’s Raiders future originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

After winning the Super Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks as offensive coordinator, Klint Kubiak has arrived in Las Vegas as the Raiders’ next head coach.

As expected, one of the first questions for Kubiak focused on All-Pro pass rusher Maxx Crosby, whose goal is to win. Speculation about his future with the organization recently surfaced after he allegedly told minority owner Tom Brady that he plans to leave Las Vegas, according to Fox Sports’ Jay Glazer.

Those rumors were addressed on Tuesday when Kubiak spoke to the media, revealing that Crosby was the first player in the Raiders’ building and that they shared a cup of coffee together.

“I got to a cup of coffee with Maxx this morning. Love talking with him,” Kubiak said. “And I look forward to continuing those conversations. He was the first one in here working out. So that fired me up.

“We want him to be a part of our success going forward, there’s no doubt about that.”

MORE:Early mock draft has Patriots prioritizing defense over offensive line help

More Klint Kubiak on Maxx Crosby: “We want him to be a part of our success going forward, there’s no doubt about that.” https://t.co/1NI2c5GtgY

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 10, 2026

If Kubiak’s comments are accurate — which seems likely — it doesn’t sound like Crosby is ready to walk away from the Raiders just yet. 

Crosby is under contract through 2029, so the Raiders aren’t obligated to trade him even if there’s some potential drama. While that could complicate Kubiak’s first offseason, Crosby hasn’t given any clear signals that he plans to leave, and it doesn’t appear the Raiders have any intention of moving their franchise centerpiece.

More NFL news:  

• Rams linked to electrifying Colts QB as trade target to back up Matthew Stafford
• Bad Bunny 'Ocasio 64' jersey, explained: What to know about Super Bowl 60 halftime show's outfit
• Kid Rock reveals the truth on whether he was lip syncing during Turning Point USA halftime show

Since the start of the season, Noahkai Banks has established himself as a regular starter in FC Augsburg’s three-man backline, making 17 Bundesliga appearances this term.

The 19-year-old is widely regarded as a bright prospect, with United States coach Mauricio Pochettino previously saying that Banks has the potential to become one of the best centre-backs in Europe.

For now, Banks is enjoying gaining his first experiences in the Bundesliga, but if his rapid rise continues, he may eventually look to take the next step elsewhere. The question is: where could he see himself playing?

“It's difficult to say. I really enjoy playing in the Bundesliga to be honest. But there are a lot of great leagues, such as the Premier League, Serie A and La Liga," Banks told Bulinews.com and reporters from other publications during a roundtable on Wednesday.

He went on to name a specific club that he's always particularly liked.

“One of the clubs I idolized while growing up was Barcelona. I think I can say that's my favorite club. So yeah, maybe one day it would be a dream to play for them, but let's see what happens,” said Banks.

It’s no surprise, then, that Banks mentioned Lionel Messi as one of his biggest footballing idols and “the best player of all time.” As he also pointed out, however, the Argentine superstar plays in a very different role to himself.

In terms of defenders, Banks looked up to a 2014 German World Cup winner.

“My biggest idol growing up was Jérôme Boateng at Bayern," he revealed.

“I really admired his playing style, and after the 2014 World Cup, where he performed so well, I became a big fan. I think there are some similarities in the way we play. Obviously I’m not at his level yet, but I can see a bit of that similarity.” 

Banks will be hoping for his second call-up to the senior United States national team in March. The Augsburg defender earned his first call-up to Mauricio Pochettino’s squad in September, but didn’t get to make his debut at that time.

West Ham vs. Man United score, stats, talking points, highlights for Premier League match originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

JUMP TO:

• West Ham vs. Man United score
• West Ham vs. Man United key moments, updates
• West Ham vs. Man United team news
• Upcoming fixtures for West Ham, Man United

Suddenly in blistering form since their change in management, Manchester United put a four-match Premier League winning streak to the test as they visit relegation-threatened West Ham on Tuesday.

Since discarding Ruben Amorim and installing Michael Carrick as interim boss, the Red Devils are on fire, having toppled Manchester City, Arsenal, Fulham, and Tottenham in successive games.

The sudden burst has launched them into contention for Champions League qualification, with United sitting fourth in the league standings. Yet Carrick's side cannot let up if they wish to return to Europe's top competition, as a litany of clubs are just behind them waiting to pounce.

For West Ham, the situation is far more dire. Three wins in their past four have given the Hammers life, but they still sit 18th in the standings, three points back of fourth-bottom Nottingham Forest.

The Sporting News is following the West Ham vs. Man United match live, providing score updates, commentary, and analysis.

MORE:A Fernandes-Carrick connection has brought warmth to a chilly Manchester

West Ham vs. Man United live score

Location: London Stadium (London, England)
Referee: Simon Hooper

Keep track of every game and every goal via SN's live Premier League scoreboard.

Starting lineups:

West Ham (4-4-1-1, right to left): 1. Hermansen (GK) — 29. Wan-Bissaka, 4. Disasi, 15. Mavropanos, 12. Diouf — 20. Bowen, 28. Soucek, 32. Potts 7. Summerville — 18. M. Fernandes — 11. Castellanos.

Man United (4-2-3-1, right to left): 31. Lammens (GK) — 2. Dalot, 5. Maguire, 6. L. Martinez, 23. Shaw — 18. Casemiro, 37. Mainoo — 16. Diallo, 8. B. Fernandes, 10. Cunha — 19. Mbeumo.

📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp

West Ham vs. Man United talking points, analysis

This section will be updated with commentary and analysis of the match once it concludes.

West Ham vs. Man United key moments

13th min: Chance, West Ham! SENNE LAMMENS MAKES A HUGE FULL-STRETCH SAVE! He keeps out a curling shot from Crysencio Summerville which was destined to tuck inside the far post!

Kickoff: They're under way at the Olympic Stadium in London in the pouring rain! Both teams have every reason to go for all three points here, will that make for an exciting 90 minutes? Let's hope so!

1 hour to kickoff: Lineups are in! There are no surprises whatsoever, as both XI's are exactly as predicted.

2 hours to kickoff: Michael Carrick has rejuvenated Manchester United seemingly in an instant. His first task after being hired as interim boss was to put Bruno Fernandes back in a starring role on the pitch.

The move has worked wonders, as Carrick has suggested — not without merit — that Fernandes is playing like the MVP of the league right now. "Yeah, quite possibly," the United manager pondered when asked if that were the case.

Since returning from injury, Fernandes has delivered a goal and five assists in five Premier League matches. The Portugal star now has 74 chances created this season in league play, twenty-seven more than anyone else, an astonishing total compared to the rest of the league.

Most chances created in the Premier League this season:

74 — Bruno Fernandes 🥇
73 —
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47 — Declan… pic.twitter.com/XO8rnUgrdG

— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) February 9, 2026

West Ham vs. Man United reaction

Following the game, this section will be updated with post-match reaction from Thomas Frank, Eddie Howe, and players.

West Ham vs. Man United team news

West Ham team news

• Defender Jean-Clair Todibo is serving the second match of a three-game ban after his clash with Joao Pedro during the defeat to Chelsea.
• Experienced goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski remains a long-term absentee with a back problem.

Man United team news

MORE:An in-depth rundown of all the latest Man United team news and injuries

• Mason Mount picked up a muscle injury that kept him out of matches against Fulham and Tottenham, and he's expected to miss one more game before potentially returning against Everton next time out.
• Matthijs de Ligt has been missing since November with a back issue, but could return soon. This game is likely too soon, but a late February return could be on the cards.
• Patrick Dorgu had been in good form this season, but a hamstring injury suffered in late January will keep him sidelined up to 10 weeks.

West Ham vs. Man United upcoming schedules

West Ham upcoming fixtures

Man United upcoming fixtures

Rarely, in a 3-0 defeat, is your goalkeeper also your best player. Yet in Dundee United's recent loss to Hearts, that may well have been the case.

Factor in that Ashley Maynard-Brewer was making his debut, and hadn't played a game since August, and the story becomes more surprising.

"When I spoke to the manager and the goalie coach [Paul Mathers], the intention was to come here and play – it was a show of faith from the manager for me to come straight into that Hearts game," Maynard-Brewer said.

"It's definitely been an eventful few weeks, but I think it's helped just coming straight into games and being part of the team.

"I wanted my debut to be a positive result and a positive performance, but we found ourselves two goals down with 10 men quite early on and that was pretty tough."

The Australian, who previously featured in the Premiership while on loan at Ross County, arrived in January from Charlton on a six-month deal.

The 26-year-old was promoted to the Championship with the Addicks last year but found playing time almost impossible to come by in the first half of the campaign.

"But personally, after not playing for a while, it was just about controlling what I could control and looking at my performance," the keeper said. "Then the Hibs game was, I thought as a team, we performed really well.

"There were definitely some positives to take from that performance, it was just frustrating to concede two set-piece goals late on.

"The training standards have been really high and the performance at Hibs, I thought we definitely deserved something. A positive result against Aberdeen would just get us back on track."

The Clemson women's basketball team took down Boston College Sunday afternoon, 83-59 in dominant fashion.

Seventeen Ws in the chat 🤩 pic.twitter.com/1CCWEUPke2

— Clemson Women's Basketball (@ClemsonWBB) February 8, 2026

Senior guard Mia Moore was the star of the show on the day, putting up 30 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists. She excelled from outside the arc, going six for five from three, and went 10-of-13 overall from the field.

Moore's point tally was the most of her collegiate career and her third time getting over the 20-point mark.

NEW CAREER HIGH FOR MIA MOORE!! 🏆

30 POINTS (10-13 FG, 4-5 3FG, 6-10 FT).

📺 ACCNX pic.twitter.com/uXOa32yC3n

— Clemson Women's Basketball (@ClemsonWBB) February 8, 2026

Behind Mia Moore’s big night, Clemson still delivered a balanced and physical team performance, led by DemeAra Hinds and Rusne Augustinaite. Hinds was dominant inside, finishing with 14 points on 7-of-8 shooting, 11 rebounds, two steals, and a block, anchoring a Clemson frontcourt that controlled the paint.

Augustinaite added 15 points on 6-of-14 shooting and 2-of-8 from three, providing steady scoring on the perimeter while finishing with a +23 plus-minus, a statistic that measures a player's impact by calculating the point differential between their team and the opponent while that specific player is on the court.

As a team, Clemson shot an efficient 56.9 percent from the field and 50 percent from three, while overwhelming Boston 42–18 in points in the paint.

The Tigers also received strong bench production, outscoring Boston’s reserves 27–12, reinforcing a complete, multi-level effort that extended well beyond Moore’s scoring outburst.

Contact us @Clemson_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Clemson Tigers news and notes, plus opinions.

This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Clemson women's basketball and Mia Moore beat Boston College

Liverpool Eyeing Christian Pulisic Return Amid AC Milan Contract Uncertainty

Reports from Tuttomercato, suggest Liverpool are monitoring Christian Pulisic’s situation at AC Milan as talks over a new deal stall. The United States international, now 27, has long been on the club’s radar, dating back to his Borussia Dortmund days when interest from Anfield was well documented.

The latest update indicates the winger had been close to renewing only three months ago, yet no formal offer has arrived. That delay has reportedly left the player ‘taken aback’. His confusion is said to be heightened by Milan securing fresh terms for Mike Maignan during the same period. Even so, Pulisic is described as ‘very happy’ in Milan, and there remains an expectation that San Siro officials will table a proposal soon. His current contract runs until June 2027, which gives the Italian side a degree of control over any negotiations.

Form in Serie A Turning Heads

Pulisic’s output this season strengthens the case for renewed interest from Premier League clubs. He has delivered 10 goals in 20 appearances across all competitions, a return that underlines his value in Max Allegri’s attacking structure. His broader creative metrics across Serie A also place him among the elite performers in his role, with strong numbers for successful passes, chance creation and shots on target.

Liverpool supporters will recall his ability to influence big fixtures. He has scored three times against the Reds during his career, including an early strike at San Siro in last season’s Champions League meeting, a match Liverpool went on to win 3-1. Performances of that calibre tend to keep recruitment departments attentive, especially when a player combines goal threat with consistent ball progression.

Financials and Fitness Concerns

From a financial standpoint, the deal would appear manageable. Pulisic is currently earning just over £85,000 per week, a figure that could be improved without unsettling Liverpool’s existing wage structure. His estimated market value, around £40.2m, sits within a bracket that would not stretch Anfield’s resources in a typical summer window.

Photo: IMAGO

There are, however, clear considerations around durability. Since the start of the 2023-24 campaign he has recorded seven separate absences through injury, each brief, yet collectively enough to prompt caution. Liverpool’s recent recruitment has leaned towards availability as much as quality, and any serious pursuit would require robust medical confidence.

Transfer Timing Hinges on Europe

Another factor shaping the outlook is Liverpool’s competitive trajectory under Arne Slot. The head coach stated in his press conference that Champions League qualification has an ‘enormous impact’ on transfer policy. With European participation still to be secured, decision makers may delay firm moves until the club’s status for next season is clearer.

Unless Pulisic’s situation in Milan deteriorates sharply, this story feels exploratory rather than advanced. Interest from Liverpool and Arsenal aligns with his profile, yet tangible progress would likely depend on contract talks at San Siro stalling further and on clarity around Anfield’s European schedule.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This link carries intrigue but limited urgency. Pulisic’s quality is evident, and his numbers in Italy deserve respect, yet the Reds already have established options across the forward line. Recruitment under the current regime has prioritised durability and tactical fit, and his recent injury history raises legitimate questions about reliability across a full Premier League season.

There is also the matter of squad balance. If funds are available, many fans would argue they are better directed towards positions that have shown greater need during the campaign. Adding another wide attacker, even one with Pulisic’s pedigree, could create congestion without clearly elevating the starting XI.

European qualification remains a decisive variable. If Champions League football is secured, Liverpool may target a younger profile with resale value and long term upside. If it is not, committing £40m plus wages to a player approaching his late twenties may feel like a short term fix rather than strategic planning.

In short, it is a rumour worth monitoring, though supporters may prefer patience until stronger, locally sourced confirmation emerges.

In a recent report, journalist Graeme Bailey stated that Liverpool are in the running for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali. It is understood that the Reds would have to compete with Arsenal and Manchester City in the race to land the Italy international next summer.

Tonali’s Impressive Form In The Premier League

Tonali has enjoyed a decent campaign at the Tyneside club as he has put in a series of eye-catching performances for them at the centre of the park. The Italian talent has participated in 37 matches for the Reds this season, securing five assists in the process across all competitions.

The 25-year-old is currently among the best central midfielders in the Premier League. Thus, Liverpool would do well to get a deal done for him this summer.

His current contract at St. James’ Park will run out in the summer of 2028, which could make it difficult for the Reds to sign him on the cheap later this year.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JANUARY 21: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD7 match between Newcastle United FC and PSV Eindhoven at St James’ Park on January 21, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Should Liverpool Boss Arne Slot Snap Tonali Up?

Tonali is a good tackler of the ball and can read the danger well to secure the ball back for his side inside his half. He usually puts his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the front foot and is a tidy passer as well.

The Italian talent can even create some meaningful openings for his teammates in the final third when he is playing regularly and with confidence on the field. However, Tonali has to find a way to add more goals to his game. Still, he has got a wealth of experience in the Premier League and won’t take much time to settle into life at the Merseyside club.

We can expect Tonali to bring more quality and depth to Liverpool boss Arne Slot’s midfield department. He is more than capable of earning a regular first-team spot at Anfield in the coming years.

At 25, Tonali has his peak years ahead of him, which makes him a decent choice for the Reds to pursue at the end of this campaign. All in all, Slot would be wise to go all out to snap him up later this year.

Air India has unveiled its first flagship Maharaja Lounge at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) in New Delhi, marking a significant milestone for premium travelers and the airport hospitality scene in India. Located in Terminal 3, this expansive 16,000 sq ft lounge promises to transform the luxury travel experience, attracting not just frequent flyers but also enhancing New Delhi’s appeal as a global tourism hub.

The lounge’s grand opening represents a key element of Air India’s ongoing efforts to enhance its premium ground services. With its impeccable blend of traditional Indian aesthetics and contemporary luxury, the lounge is set to become an international symbol of comfort, cultural heritage, and sophistication. Air India’s Maharaja Lounge is more than just a space; it embodies the airline’s refreshed brand identity, rooted in Indian culture while offering world-class amenities for travelers from all over the globe.

A Heritage-Inspired Design with Modern Luxury

The lounge’s design has been meticulously crafted by Hirsch Bedner Associates, an international design studio known for creating spaces that combine cultural legacy with modern luxury. The lounge’s interior design mirrors India’s rich heritage, incorporating opulent elements with cutting-edge technology. It reflects a fusion of tradition and modernity, offering travelers a serene and elevated atmosphere before their flights.

Tailored Spaces for Every Traveler’s Needs

The lounge is divided into various distinct zones that cater to different traveler preferences:

• Business and First Class Areas: Spacious, ergonomic seating arrangements designed for productivity and comfort.
• Aviator’s Bar: A chic, speakeasy-style bar offering fine wines and whiskeys, perfect for unwinding.
• Globetrotter’s Study: A peaceful zone with curated reading materials and dedicated workspaces for those who prefer a quiet retreat.
• Serenity Area: Relaxing recliners and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for pre-flight rest.
• Crystal Bar: An upscale bar space in the First Class section, offering bespoke cocktails and premium champagnes.
• First Class Sleep Suites: Private suites for travelers seeking complete rest before their journey.
• Tarmac Views: Dining and seating areas designed to offer a scenic view of the runway and aircraft movements.

A Dining Experience Like No Other

Air India promises a culinary experience that caters to both Indian and international tastes. The lounge will feature live cooking stations, where passengers can watch chefs prepare delicious meals from a variety of cuisines. The dining options will reflect the rich diversity of Indian cuisine, complemented by premium wines and a range of hand-crafted cocktails.

“We aim to provide not just food but a true gastronomical journey, showcasing the essence of India while catering to global tastes,” said a spokesperson for Air India.

Special Cultural Touches

The Maharaja Lounge offers unique cultural elements that add an authentic Indian touch:

• A Tea Programme featuring freshly brewed Indian teas served alongside traditional snacks.
• ‘Beverage on Wheels’ services inspired by the Indian tradition of gueridon dining.
• Exclusive Maharaja-designed postcards, offered to guests as a souvenir to take home a piece of India’s cultural legacy.

These thoughtful details further elevate the experience, allowing travelers to connect with the rich cultural traditions of India even before boarding their flight.

An Experience That Will Boost Tourism

The launch of the Maharaja Lounge is expected to have a positive impact on tourism to India. The luxurious new lounge will appeal to international travelers seeking world-class experiences, enhancing New Delhi’s reputation as a premium travel destination. By offering a seamless and sophisticated travel experience, Air India aims to attract high-spending tourists, making the country more appealing as a destination for both business and leisure travelers.

“The introduction of the Maharaja Lounge aligns perfectly with New Delhi’s ambitions to be a leading destination in the global tourism market,” a tourism official from India commented. “It is expected to not only attract more international travelers but also boost India’s standing in the global luxury travel scene.”

Access for Premium Travelers

The lounge will be accessible to First and Business Class passengers, as well as Gold and Platinum Maharaja Club members and qualifying Star Alliance frequent flyers. Air India is offering this exclusive access to its most loyal customers starting 16 February 2026, with further plans to expand lounge access as part of the airline’s larger premium services strategy.

Part of a Larger Global Strategy

Air India has plans to expand its presence in major international airports by introducing more signature lounges in key cities worldwide. This move is part of a broader strategy to reposition itself as a global leader in premium services. The new lounge in New Delhi is the first step in this ongoing transformation, reflecting the airline’s commitment to elevating customer experiences.

The Future of Travel at New Delhi’s IGI Airport

The launch of the Maharaja Lounge aligns with a growing trend of airport luxury services globally. New Delhi, already a major hub for international tourism and business travel, is poised to become a center of luxury airport experiences in Asia. This new addition to IGI Airport is a clear indicator of the airport’s growing significance as a world-class international hub.

The Maharaja Lounge is expected to play a pivotal role in drawing tourists who appreciate high-end travel experiences. Its opening marks an exciting development for both Air India and New Delhi, enhancing the appeal of India as a top destination for luxury travelers and furthering the country’s goals to be a global leader in the tourism industry.

Travelers heading to Oregon in February 2026 will have to prepare for odd weather. With an unprecedented warm weather front heading to Oregon, February will likely become the warmest ever recorded. However, rising temperatures do not indicate the absence of potentially dangerous unexpected weather patterns. Traveling to Oregon in February requires close observation of the weather to ensure the best travel experience.

Record Breaking Temperatures in Oregon

Currently, Oregon has recorded the highest temperatures ever seen in February, and that record seems to continuously shatter over time. The National Weather Service and Weather.com record the predicted temperatures during February to range consistently between 30° and 50°. Because of these temperature records, travelers to Oregon during February will experience milder and more temperate winters than previous years. Because of these record temperatures, it may be wise to invest in or make the use of previously neglected outdoor adventure gear.

February of this year could break records from previous years such as February of 1963 and 2015 where Oregon reached an average temperature of 41.7 degrees F. This February could be one of the warmest in Oregon history and could be one of the warmest in the history of recorded temperatures in Oregon. Because of these high temperatures, it is a perfect time for winter travel. Whether you are a fan of the warm travel or winter travel, you can travel to Oregon and enjoy the warm winter temperatures.

What Does This Minimum Temperature Mean for Your Travels?

This February, temperatures are above average, meaning there is almost guaranteed to be perfect hiking and skiing weather. With these temperatures and possible snow, you have tons of options for outdoor activities. Go hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, or just enjoy the beautiful Oregon scenery.

While traveling, the ever-changing weather in Oregon can not only create delays, but also perplex and confuse travelers. Even in the present moment, snow, and potential snow, is a variable on the road. Forecasts show snow may show at the end of February, with Portland having the greatest chances. Last year, Portland had a snowstorm that surprised both residents and travelers that pushed the snowstorm to Valentine’s Day. Check the weather often, and adjust your plans to stay safe in Portland.

Expect the Unexpected: Snow May Be On The Move

While temperatures may seem manageable, avoid traveling to Oregon if you want to avoid all snow. Weather changes alter plans. Snow can appear at moments that seem perfect in Oregon. For the remainder of winter and early spring, the prediction is to have temperatures close to 40 degrees. With that said, temperatures can easily drop in the early morning or late evening hours to bring snow.

In February 2025, Portland experienced an unexpected seasonal snowstorm, leaving visitors guessing if winter was coming to an end. It is wise to prepare for a quick dusting of snow if you’re traveling to the region at the end of the month. Bringing some extra layers to stay warm, and preparing for rain, or slippery roads will help ensure you have a pleasant trip.

What to Pack for Your Trip to Oregon This February

When visiting Oregon in February, it is best to prepare for a little bit of everything. With the rapidly changing weather, pack accordingly. Showers can come at any moment, so be sure to pack a jacket that can stand up to the rain, and even layers you can remove for the warmer periods. It is best to pack a good set of shoes and a jacket for exploring the outdoors. If you will be visiting areas such as the Oregon Coast, or even Mount Hood, you will need a good set of shoes as well.

February may not have the snowstorms that some guests are looking forward to, but still make sure you are ready for anything. Weather for the Crater Lake National Park and Multnomah Falls can change rapidly, so be sure to check the weather before heading to the snow and remote spots.

February 2026 Warm Weather Activities

February’s warm weather gives travelers yet another chance to experience the splendors of nature that Oregon has to offer. Portland’s warm weather presents great opportunities to walk around the city, visit the Japanese Gardens, and relax as well as participate in outdoor activities at Washington Park to do some hiking, or visit Mount Hood for skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing.

For anyone that is considering a trip to Oregon in February, you will be able to enjoy pleasant weather walks along the coast or a trip to the world-famous Cannon Beach where you can see the picturesque snow-covered mountains of Oregon can be enjoyed this month, if you plan your trip to Oregon at the right time.

Thoughts of Travelers Visiting Oregon This February

For anyone that is considering a trip to Oregon in February, it will be a month of pleasant weather and memorable adventures. Take advantage of the warm temperatures in the state and the ability to do various activities outdoors. Depending on the weather, snow may even drop, so skiing or snowball fights may be a fun addition to your trip. Oregon is perfect for people with various interests, ranging from hiking, driving around to explore the lesser-known areas, and even visiting urban sites.

Weather can be expected to shift in the state, but it is good for travelers visiting the state in winter and it will be even better for travelers visiting Oregon in early February.

Sweden is capturing global attention in 2026 not just as a beautiful Nordic country but as a breathtaking model of sustainable progress. The Swedish Government’s bold commitment to become the world’s first fossil‑free welfare state by 2045 is reshaping how locals and visitors live, work and travel. This vision forms the backdrop for a tourism revolution that positions Sweden as a top sustainable travel destination in 2026.

From pristine forests to innovative eco experiences, Sweden is humanising sustainability for travellers. Visitors now arrive not just to see dramatic landscapes but to engage with a culture that blends nature, social responsibility and climate action like no other place on Earth.

Sweden’s National Mission: Fossil‑Free by 2045 Inspires Tourism

The Swedish Government’s climate ambition goes far beyond slogans. Sweden aims to reach net‑zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045, a powerful pledge enshrined in national policy and aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. This commitment responds directly to the global climate agenda and sets a blueprint for long‑term societal transformation.

This framework includes a Climate Act, a Climate Policy Council and rising milestone targets which guide both public and private sectors. It is these robust policies that have earned Sweden top rankings in sustainable development indices – making the destination not only environmentally responsible but genuinely transformative for travellers seeking purpose‑driven journeys.

Eco‑Experiences that Elevate Travel Beyond Sightseeing

Sweden’s approach to sustainable tourism is immersive and meaningful. Official tourism platforms highlight nature‑centred lifestyles, supporting responsible travel choices that respect local culture and ecosystems.

Visitors can embark on eco tours such as dog‑sledding in Arctic terrain or timber‑rafting through forested waterways in Värmland. Whale‑watching in Skåne, glamping in the High Coast and slow‑paced exploration of national parks all offer powerful ways to connect with the natural world while treading lightly.

This focus extends beyond activities – Swedish sustainable tourism principles emphasise informed, respectful behaviour that benefits local communities and preserves the environment for future generations.

Local Initiatives Show How Communities Are Driving Green Travel

Across Sweden, regional partnerships and destination collaborations are further boosting sustainable travel. In the west, climate‑smart holiday packages encourage low‑carbon stays, with electric last‑mile transport from train stations to lodgings.

Projects like “Stepping up Sustainability” unite tourism businesses around common green principles, promoting rural and urban destinations alike. This collective effort means visitors find authentic experiences that directly support local cultures and economies.

Nature, Culture & Accessibility: Why Sweden Is Unique

A distinctly Swedish concept called allemansrätten – the Right of Public Access – invites everyone to enjoy nature responsibly. It grants people freedom to roam forests, lakes and countryside respectfully, blending tourism with everyday life in a way few nations offer.

This access, paired with Sweden’s extensive hiking and outdoor infrastructure, opens unparalleled opportunities for mindful interaction with the landscape. In 2024, the Stockholm Archipelago Trail – a 270km sustainable hiking network across 20 islands – was recognised for promoting responsible trail tourism that protects fragile ecosystems while enthralling travelers.

Government & Tourism Bodies: Driving Responsible Travel Together

Sweden’s sustainable travel success is not accidental. National tourism authority Visit Sweden joined the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), emphasising long‑term environmental responsibility in marketing and tourism strategy.

This partnership highlights Sweden’s proactive role in global sustainable tourism. It aligns destination marketing and industry standards to ensure greener choices for travellers, vibrant local economies, and reduced ecological footprints.

Sweden’s Ministry of Climate and Enterprise also champions sustainable outdoor life and environmental policies, playing a central role in linking climate strategy with destination development.

Small Towns & Big Ideas: Sweden’s Ecovillage Innovation

Away from the cities, pioneering sustainability communities offer transformative experiences. On Gotland, Suderbyn Ecovillage showcases permaculture and environmentally friendly living, drawing travelers eager to learn and participate in eco‑living practices. These meaningful stays turn vacations into educational journeys, blending culture, community and sustainability.

Sweden’s 2026 Sustainable Travel Legacy: Soaring Beyond Limits

Sweden’s travel narrative in 2026 is more than spectacular scenery – it’s about purposeful journeys that enrich both the visitor and the destination. By aligning shrewd climate policy with responsible tourism experiences, Sweden is rewriting what it means to travel sustainably.

For visitors seeking more than a holiday, this Nordic nation offers a chance to witness and participate in a living model of environmental stewardship. Whether through slow exploration of ancient forests, immersive eco tours, or sustainability education in unique communities, Sweden invites the world to travel greener, travel deeper, and travel smarter.

The US tourism sector is undergoing a major transformation as Tennessee leads the charge, uniting New York, Pennsylvania, Idaho, Massachusetts, and 45 other US states in an unprecedented tourism marketing campaign aimed at attracting more tourists in 2026. This new wave of tourism strategies and policies promises to turbocharge the US tourism industry like never before. Tennessee, New York, Pennsylvania, and Idaho are not only redefining their tourism strategies but also setting new standards for tourism marketing across the country. These states, along with many others, are rolling out innovative policies and bold new campaigns to ensure they capture the attention of domestic and international visitors.

With 2026 fast approaching, these US states are pulling out all the stops to ensure US tourism reaches new heights. From global campaigns to locally-focused initiatives, each state is now competing to become the ultimate US travel destination.

Whether it’s Pennsylvania’s history, New York City’s vibrancy, or Idaho’s outdoor adventure, these states are taking tourism marketing to a whole new level. You don’t want to miss what’s coming next! Read on to discover the exciting updates that are sure to make 2026 the best year yet for US tourism!

Most Visited States

Pennsylvania ~216.6 million total annual visitors

Florida ~143.0 million total annual visitors

Tennessee ~126.9 million total visitors

Colorado ~86.9 million total visitors

New York (state) ~72.6 million total visitors

Ultimate US Tourism Boom: Why 2026 Is the Year to Travel to America

The US tourism sector is gearing up for an explosion of opportunities, with US states unveiling game-changing tourism campaigns for 2026. From the bustling streets of New York City to the breathtaking landscapes of Colorado, the US is setting the stage for the most unforgettable travel year in recent history. US travel is being redefined as states prepare to launch jaw-dropping campaigns that will captivate the world. The Americas are calling, and US tourism is going all-in. Let’s dive into the 2026 US tourism revolution that promises to redefine everything we know about American travel.

Tennessee: A Cultural Mecca for Global Tourists in 2026

Tennessee is ready to light up US tourism in 2026 with a revamped tourism approach that showcases new attractions and unmissable experiences. The state’s tourism office is rolling out campaigns designed to capture the attention of travelers worldwide, particularly focusing on its rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. With the introduction of new music events, Tennessee will solidify itself as a top destination for visitors in 2026. Whether it’s the Graceland Museum or the rolling hills of Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee is positioning itself as one of the US tourism jewels. (press.tnvacation.com)

Tennessee’s Revolutionary Sound Bites Campaign

Tennessee is rewriting the rulebook for US tourism with the launch of its sensational new campaign, Sound Bites. What if food could be transformed by the power of music? That’s exactly what Tennessee is offering with its bold new initiative. This innovative campaign unites two of the state’s most cherished traditions—music and food—in a way that’s never been seen before. Forget about music as mere background noise. Now, it’s an essential part of the dining experience. Tennessee’s Sound Bites campaign invites visitors to savor food in an entirely new way, one that uses the power of music to elevate the dining experience and amplify the flavor. Tennessee’s hospitality industry is proving that music is much more than just a sound – it’s a vital ingredient in what makes food taste even better.

From Nashville to Memphis and beyond, Tennessee is setting a new standard for culinary experiences. US travel has never looked this exciting. US tourism in Tennessee is about to explode, and the world is taking notice of the incredible food-and-music pairing offered by the state’s vibrant cities. If you want a sensory adventure that will shake your taste buds and your ears, Tennessee is calling.

Ben Rector, Lee Brice, and DJ Paul Team Up with Tennessee’s Top Chefs in Groundbreaking Food and Music Pairings

Tennessee’s Sound Bites campaign is a star-studded celebration of all things US tourism. The campaign has brought together renowned chefs and world-class musicians to create a truly groundbreaking collaboration. Picture this: Ben Rector, the celebrated singer-songwriter, teams up with Chef Philip Krajeck of Rolf and Daughters in Nashville to create a culinary masterpiece designed to be paired with an original song. It’s a combination of two of Tennessee’s greatest strengths—music and food—that will leave your senses reeling.

This isn’t just about good food or good music. This is sonic seasoning—a concept pioneered by Dr. Charles Spence—that uses elements like pitch, tempo, and rhythm to enhance how we perceive taste. Tennessee’s Sound Bites campaign leverages this powerful science, allowing visitors to experience flavors like never before. Whether you’re in East Tennessee enjoying the sounds of Lee Brice and Chef Jeff Carter or rocking out in West Tennessee with DJ Paul and Chef Felicia Willett, the experience is nothing short of magical.

Tennessee’s US tourism sector is thriving, with tourists flocking to cities like Nashville and Memphis to experience this unique blend of music and cuisine. The world of US travel will never be the same again. With Sound Bites, Tennessee is making waves across the globe and positioning itself as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking more than just the usual.

From Memphis to Nashville, Tennessee Reimagines the Dining Experience with Music

Imagine sitting down at a table in Nashville, the heart of US music culture, while a live performance enhances the taste of your food. This is exactly what the Sound Bites campaign offers. Tennessee has long been famous for its musical roots, but now the state is blending its deep history in US music with the vibrant flavors of its culinary scene.

The Sound Bites campaign is offering an immersive dining experience that goes far beyond what you might expect from your average US tourism trip. It’s an experience that will captivate all your senses. Every bite of food is carefully curated to pair with the sound of live music, creating a whole new world of flavor. Whether you’re indulging in smoky Memphis barbecue or tasting fresh Southern specialties in Nashville, the music enhances every bite.

Tennessee’s innovative campaign, in collaboration with celebrity chefs and musicians, is rapidly gaining attention. This is not your typical US travel experience. Sound Bites is a game-changer. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey where music and food come together to form a truly unforgettable experience, and US tourism is poised to be forever transformed.

Pennsylvania: A State Poised for Unprecedented Growth in 2026

Pennsylvania is taking the tourism game to the next level with its bold new initiative, tied to the America250 anniversary celebrations. This is more than just a tourism campaign; it’s a full-on experience aimed at attracting tourists from across the globe. Major events like the FIFA World Cup, MLB All‑Star Game, and NFL Draft are making Pennsylvania the hottest destination of 2026. The Pennsylvania tourism department is throwing a massive spotlight on the state’s rich heritage, diverse culture, and jaw-dropping attractions. This is just the beginning of a tourism boom that will make US tourism unstoppable in 2026. You won’t want to miss it. (dced.pa.gov)

New York City: The Ultimate Global Destination for 2026

If there’s one place you can’t afford to miss in 2026, it’s New York City. With its new campaign, “Where the World Comes to Play,” targeting international markets, NYC is preparing to show off its best side to the world. With 2026 FIFA World Cup matches hosted in the city, you can expect an influx of tourists, eager to soak in all the culture, nightlife, and iconic attractions that make New York City a global tourism hub. The city is officially calling on the world to visit, and the world is listening. This is US tourism at its finest. (business.nyctourism.com)

Colorado: Digital Marketing Meets Epic Outdoor Adventures in 2026

If you’re an adventure seeker, Colorado is pulling out all the stops for 2026. Visit Colorado Springs has secured a 2026 tourism marketing grant to launch a powerful digital campaign that’s set to capture the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and skiing to exploring rugged national parks, Colorado is ready to showcase the US tourism sector at its best. The state’s official tourism office is investing in targeted promotions that will make it the go-to destination for anyone craving the ultimate outdoor experience. Get ready for an adrenaline rush like never before in 2026! (visitcos.com)

Connecticut: From Heritage to Gastronomy – A 2026 Tourism Goldmine

Connecticut’s tourism office is setting the stage for a bumper year in 2026. The official launch of the “Pizza Capital of the U.S.” campaign puts the state front and center in the hearts and minds of food lovers worldwide. By linking its rich heritage to gastronomic experiences, Connecticut is ready to welcome US tourism in ways never seen before. This campaign isn’t just about food – it’s about highlighting everything that makes Connecticut unique, from historical landmarks to scenic views. This is a must‑visit destination for anyone planning to explore the best of US tourism. (ctvisit.com)

Idaho: Your 2026 Road to Adventure

Idaho’s 2026 Official Travel Guide has hit the shelves, showcasing everything this amazing state has to offer. From idyllic mountain retreats to thrilling outdoor activities, Idaho is pulling out all the stops for its tourism marketing efforts in 2026. Whether you’re exploring the Sawtooth Mountains or sipping wine in the state’s finest wineries, Idaho offers an escape for every kind of traveler. Get ready to see Idaho rise in the ranks of US tourism this year. (commerce.idaho.gov)

North Dakota: The Heart of America’s Great Outdoors

North Dakota’s tourism office has just unveiled a new set of promotional materials for 2026 that spotlight the state’s most breathtaking outdoor experiences. With major marketing pushes focused on the International Peace Garden, the Badlands, and cultural tours, this campaign is designed to draw US tourism to the less‑explored areas of the country. The state is ready to welcome tourists who are looking for something new and exciting in the Americas. (dctourismonline.com)

Wisconsin: Set Sail Into the 2026 Great Lakes Tourism Boom

Wisconsin is making waves in the tourism sector with its bold push to promote Great Lakes cruising in 2026. US tourism is getting a whole new look thanks to Wisconsin’s official promotions, which spotlight the state’s scenic coastline, historic lighthouses, and vibrant waterfront festivals. With record‑breaking visitor numbers expected, Wisconsin is set to become the number‑one destination for those looking to explore the Great Lakes in 2026. (content.govdelivery.com)

Massachusetts: Discover the History, Culture, and Beauty of 2026

Massachusetts has just launched its “Made Possible” campaign, which emphasizes the best of what the state has to offer. From historic tours in Boston to exploring the stunning Cape Cod coastline, this campaign highlights the rich history and culture that has made Massachusetts a must‑visit destination in 2026. Whether you’re a history buff or an adventure seeker, Massachusetts promises an unforgettable experience for all. (mass.gov)

Florida: Sunshine, Beaches, and 2026 Trade Show Glory

While Florida may not have unveiled a brand new, consumer‑facing campaign specifically for 2026, its trade shows and industry‑focused events are putting the state on the map for US tourism in the coming year. The “Never Lose Your Splash” campaign highlights Fort Lauderdale’s charm, bringing tourists from across the world to bask in the state’s sun and surf. With major events planned throughout 2026, Florida’s tourism sector is primed for an epic year ahead. (visitfloridamedia.com)

A Year of Unprecedented Growth and Innovation

2026 is set to be an extraordinary year for US tourism, as states across the country unveil new campaigns that promise to draw millions of visitors, both domestic and international. From the urban vibrancy of New York City to the rugged outdoor experiences in Colorado and the historic charm of Tennessee, US travel is on the brink of a major revolution. With tourism numbers set to soar, 2026 will be a landmark year for the US tourism sector. Let’s dive into the states that are poised to dominate US tourism this year and beyond.

Pennsylvania: A State Ready to Make History with America250 Celebrations

In 2026, Pennsylvania is set to lead the charge with its massive tourism initiative tied to the America250 celebrations. This campaign is not just about celebrating history — it’s a dynamic marketing push aimed at attracting global tourists for major events like the FIFA World Cup, the MLB All‑Star Game, and the NFL Draft. Pennsylvania’s tourism sector is going all-in, with multimillion-dollar investments to market its historical sites, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene. The Pennsylvania tourism department is already preparing for a record number of visitors, with some estimates predicting over 200 million total visitors in 2026. Major events combined with the America250 campaign will make Pennsylvania the US tourism epicenter this year. (dced.pa.gov)

Key Takeaways:

• Massive event tourism for major global sports events.
• The America250 campaign will drive historic tourism numbers.

New York City: The Ultimate Global Travel Destination in 2026

New York City is gearing up for one of its biggest years in history. With its newly launched global campaign, “Where The World Comes to Play”, NYC is positioning itself as the top destination for international visitors. This campaign is specifically targeted at international tourists, with a focus on FIFA World Cup 2026 visitors. In 2026, NYC will be one of the host cities for the World Cup, and the city’s tourism sector is preparing for an influx of global visitors.

The NYC tourism department is leveraging its world-famous landmarks, vibrant culture, and thriving arts scene to attract tourists from around the world. In 2024, NYC saw a staggering 9.8 million international visitors, and 2026 is set to break that record. With more than 64 million visitors expected overall, New York is ready to welcome the world like never before. (business.nyctourism.com)

Key Takeaways:

• The World Cup 2026 will be a major draw for international visitors.
• New York is preparing for record-breaking tourism numbers in 2026.

Florida: The Sunshine State Shines Even Brighter in 2026

When it comes to US tourism, Florida has long been one of the most sought-after destinations, and 2026 will see the Sunshine State step up its game even further. In 2024, Florida welcomed nearly 9 million international visitors, ranking second only to New York for overseas tourism. With an array of beaches, theme parks, and vibrant cultural experiences, Florida is set to continue its reign as a top US tourism destination.

Florida tourism is heavily influenced by domestic visitors, but international markets, particularly from Europe and South America, are expected to grow significantly in 2026. The state’s tourism board has already rolled out marketing campaigns targeting eco-tourism, beach tourism, and even trade shows like Florida Huddle. The upcoming 2026 tourism season will be a crucial year for Florida’s tourism sector. (mize.tech)

Key Takeaways:

• Florida remains one of the most popular US tourism destinations.
• The state’s beaches, theme parks, and cultural attractions are major draws for global tourists.

Tennessee: A Hotspot for Cultural Tourism and New Attractions

In 2026, Tennessee is bringing the US tourism sector to new heights. From Nashville’s country music scene to the awe-inspiring beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee offers a diverse tourism experience that attracts millions of visitors. In 2024, Tennessee recorded a massive 126.9 million total visits, reflecting its widespread appeal.

Tennessee’s official tourism marketing campaign for 2026 will focus on its musical heritage, outdoor adventures, and new attractions like the upcoming Songteller Hotel. The state’s tourism sector is prepared for another record year, thanks to its iconic landmarks and unparalleled hospitality. The state’s ongoing commitment to cultural tourism and its natural beauty make it a prime destination for both domestic and international visitors. (press.tnvacation.com)

Key Takeaways:

• Tennessee’s musical heritage and outdoor attractions are central to its 2026 tourism push.
• Cultural tourism and new attractions will fuel Tennessee’s tourism growth.

Colorado: A Destination for Adventure Seekers and Nature Lovers

Known for its majestic mountains and stunning national parks, Colorado continues to be a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The state’s tourism office has already secured a 2026 marketing grant to promote its outdoor activities, cultural events, and adventure tourism. While Colorado has seen steady growth in tourism over the years, the state is expected to see a significant uptick in domestic tourism and international visitors.

As part of the tourism push, Colorado will focus on showcasing the state’s hiking trails, ski resorts, and wildlife experiences. With an estimated 87 million total visitors expected for 2026, Colorado is positioning itself as a top destination for adventure tourism. (visitcos.com)

Key Takeaways:

• Outdoor adventures and cultural tourism will drive visitation to Colorado in 2026.
• Colorado is poised to see record numbers of both domestic and international visitors.

Massachusetts: A Cultural and Historical Hotspot

Massachusetts has launched its “Made Possible” campaign, focusing on the state’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. With nearly 1.5 million international visitors recorded in 2024, Massachusetts remains a top US tourism destination. Its stunning coastline, historic landmarks, and world-renowned museums make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Americas.

In 2026, Massachusetts is expected to see a rise in visitors thanks to new marketing initiatives aimed at expanding heritage tourism. With Boston’s iconic sites, such as the Freedom Trail and Harvard University, the state is making a strong push to attract international tourists. (mass.gov)

Key Takeaways:

• Cultural tourism will remain a key pillar for Massachusetts tourism.
• Historic sites like Boston will continue to attract millions of visitors in 2026.

The Future of US Tourism in 2026: A Record-Breaking Year

The US tourism sector is preparing for an explosion of visitors in 2026. From Pennsylvania’s historic celebrations to New York’s global outreach during the FIFA World Cup, states across the country are pulling out all the stops to attract visitors. The US tourism industry is on track to surpass previous records, with Florida, Tennessee, Colorado, and California all expected to see significant growth.

With over 200 million total visits expected across the US tourism sector in 2026, the Americas are ready for an unforgettable year. Don’t miss out on experiencing the best of US travel — from cultural tourism to adventure sports, 2026 is shaping up to be the most exciting year for US tourism yet.

Oman’s capital, Muscat, is set to host a new family-oriented destination with the announcement of a Nickelodeon-branded hotel. This new hotel will be part of the sprawling Aida development project, which began construction in 2023. Developed by Dubai-based Dar Global, Aida is a mixed-use development that spans across approximately 865 acres, including hotels, residences, and golf facilities. The Nickelodeon Hotel will be one of the major highlights of this ambitious project, aiming to attract families from around the globe with its fun and unique offerings.

A First of its Kind in Oman

The Nickelodeon Hotel in Muscat will feature 120 rooms, with a range of accommodation options designed for families. The hotel’s offerings will include one-bedroom units as well as more spacious three-bedroom residences, catering to different family sizes and preferences. This move reflects the growing demand for family-centric vacation experiences in the region, particularly in Oman, which has seen an increase in family-friendly tourism infrastructure in recent years.

The hotel’s design will align with Nickelodeon’s signature style, incorporating bright colors, fun designs, and interactive experiences for guests of all ages. This theme will complement the Aida development, which is envisioned as a world-class leisure destination for residents and visitors alike.

The Aqua Nick Waterpark and Themed Entertainment

Guests staying at the new Nickelodeon hotel will be able to enjoy a wide range of family-friendly amenities, ensuring that the property will be a hit with both kids and parents. One of the main attractions will be the Aqua Nick waterpark, an expansive water play area that will feature a variety of slides, splash zones, and interactive water features. This waterpark is set to become one of Muscat’s top attractions for both hotel guests and the public.

In addition to the waterpark, the hotel will offer a range of themed dining venues that will immerse guests in the beloved characters and worlds of Nickelodeon. These family-friendly dining spots will be designed to provide fun and interactive meals, ensuring that every moment spent at the hotel is filled with excitement. For younger guests, the hotel will include a Club Nick kids’ clubhouse, a dedicated space where children can take part in various activities and enjoy games, arts and crafts, and other entertainment. Live performances will also be a key feature of the Nickelodeon Hotel, with game shows, character appearances, and the famous “slime” experiences that have become a hallmark of the brand.

A Global Expansion for Nickelodeon Resorts

The Nickelodeon Hotel in Oman adds to an expanding portfolio of Nickelodeon resorts around the world. The brand is already well-established in several popular destinations, including the Dominican Republic, Mexico’s Riviera Maya, and Turkey. The resort in Muscat will be the latest addition to this growing network of family-friendly hotels, bringing the brand’s signature fun and interactive experiences to the Middle East.

Nickelodeon’s hotel developments are known for their emphasis on luxury family-friendly amenities, ensuring that parents and children can enjoy a relaxing yet exciting holiday experience. The expansion into Oman is part of a larger trend of global hospitality brands catering to the growing demand for high-quality family vacations.

New Nickelodeon Resort Set for the United States

In addition to the Oman property, Nickelodeon’s expansion into the global resort scene includes an exciting new development in the United States. Set to open later in 2026, the Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Orlando will be located in the heart of the theme park capital of the world. This resort will feature more than 400 hotel rooms and condo units, with some of the accommodations available for purchase.

The Orlando resort will offer a series of unique and imaginative themed suites, including rooms inspired by Nickelodeon’s most iconic characters. These will include suites dedicated to characters such as SpongeBob SquarePants, PAW Patrol, Dora the Explorer, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The Orlando Nickelodeon resort will allow guests to interact with these beloved franchises in person, adding an exciting layer to the immersive vacation experience.

This new development in Orlando will complement the brand’s commitment to creating destinations where families can experience the magic of Nickelodeon in an immersive, upscale environment. It will provide the perfect blend of relaxation, fun, and themed entertainment for families seeking a once-in-a-lifetime vacation experience.

Expanding Family-Centered Tourism in Oman

With the announcement of the Nickelodeon Hotel in Muscat, Oman is positioning itself as an emerging family-friendly destination in the Middle East. The country’s tourism sector has seen a steady rise in international visitors, and projects like the Aida development aim to attract high-end family travelers who seek a blend of adventure and luxury.

The Aida development will offer a wide variety of activities for guests, with the Nickelodeon hotel being one of its standout features. This expansion into Oman reflects a growing global trend where family-friendly resorts and themed hotels are becoming increasingly popular, as parents look for destinations where children can have just as much fun as the adults.

A New Chapter for Family Holidays in the Middle East

The introduction of a Nickelodeon-branded hotel to Muscat marks a significant step forward in the region’s tourism development. It brings a globally recognized family brand to Oman, one of the most up-and-coming destinations in the Middle East. As the region continues to invest in its tourism infrastructure, the new hotel will help to attract both regional and international visitors looking for an exciting, family-oriented vacation spot. The combination of luxury accommodations, themed experiences, and an immersive waterpark at the Nickelodeon Hotel promises to make Muscat a major player in the family vacation market in the Middle East. The hotel’s opening is expected to further boost tourism numbers and offer a new dimension to Oman’s rapidly developing leisure tourism sector.

The rolling hills and lakes of the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania, are pulsing with renewed energy as The Great American Getaway 400 — NASCAR’s premier Cup Series race — is scheduled to roar back to Pocono Raceway on Sunday, June 14. This event not only marks another thrilling chapter in Pennsylvania’s motorsport tradition but also plays a major role in energising travel and tourism throughout the Commonwealth. For families planning a summer vacation, race fans plotting a getaway, and road-trip adventurers seeking new experiences, the Poconos are calling.

Local travel businesses and destination planners have started reporting rising inquiries for hotel stays, campground bookings, and flight reservations as visitors from across the United States prepare to turn the historic race weekend into a multi-day experience.

Historic Return of a Motorsport Classic

Pocono Raceway has been a fixture on the NASCAR calendar for more than five decades, originally hosting races as early as 1974. Today, the Great American Getaway 400 is the headline event of a tripleheader weekend that includes support races, fan activities, and community celebrations.

This year’s race is part of Governor Josh Shapiro’s tourism strategy, which places Pennsylvania’s breadth of natural beauty and outdoor adventure alongside world-class sporting occasions on the travel map. The event is broadcast internationally — reaching millions of viewers — and is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors to the region.

Tourism Economics: Big Numbers, Bigger Impact

State tourism officials estimate that the NASCAR weekend at Pocono Raceway injects $75 million to $100 million annually into the Pennsylvania economy, benefiting hotels, restaurants, gas stations, retail outlets, and local attractions.

More than 60% of race fans travel from out of state or abroad to attend the event, turning a single-day race into a multi-day vacation for many families and motorsport enthusiasts. Travel planners have noted an uptick in bookings at resorts, rentals, and campsites across Monroe, Carbon, Pike, and Wayne counties.

Road-trip visitors are also increasingly combining their NASCAR weekend with explorations of nearby state parks, scenic trails, and local history museums — making the Pocono region a holistic destination rather than just a racing stop.

From Ferris Wheels to Fan Zones: Planning Your Trip

For visitors flying into the region, Harrisburg International Airport and other nearby hubs are reporting spikes in travel interest for mid-June arrivals. Leisure travellers are encouraged to secure accommodations early as hotels fill up quickly during the race weekend, and rates tend to rise sharply closer to the event.

The area also offers a rich calendar of activities beyond the racetrack — from relaxing hikes around scenic lakes to exploring vibrant downtown districts filled with local crafts, boutique eateries, and heritage sites. Families with children can balance the high-octane excitement with nature trails, paddleboarding, and regional festivals that often coincide with the NASCAR weekend.

Travel advisors recommend visitors build flexible itineraries that allow time before and after race day to fully experience the diversity of the Poconos. With its forests, waterfalls, golf courses, and lakefront beaches, the region is ideal for travellers seeking both thrills and tranquillity.

Governor’s Vision: Tourism at the Forefront

In recent years, Pennsylvania’s government has placed tourism at the heart of its economic development strategy, realising that travel expenditures support thousands of jobs and contribute billions in revenue. The NASCAR partnership — particularly under the “Pennsylvania: The Great American Getaway” brand — showcases how major events can spotlight the state’s attractions while driving sustainable economic growth.

“NASCAR Cup Series races are some of the biggest and best sporting events in the world — and nobody does it better than Pennsylvania,” Governor Shapiro said, highlighting the race’s twin role in sporting excellence and travel appeal.

Beyond the Track: Explore Pennsylvania’s Hidden Gems

Race weekend visitors are increasingly turning their Pocono itinerary into a broader Pennsylvania exploration. Scenic drives through rolling countryside, historic town centres, craft breweries, and artisan markets are all part of the visitor experience. Nature lovers often pair the race with excursions to state parks, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks that define the region’s summer charm.

Road-trippers from nearby states like New York, New Jersey, and Maryland are especially drawn to the convenience of combining a high-energy sporting event with relaxed outdoor exploration — a perfect recipe for family and friend getaways.

Looking Ahead: Travel and Tourism Momentum

As the Poconos prepare to welcome another wave of motorsport fans, local businesses are optimistic that the spill-over benefits will last far beyond race day. Many restaurants and attractions reported that visitors extend their stay by several days, boosting shoulder-season tourism and reinforcing the region as a year-round destination.

With its blend of adrenaline, scenic beauty, and hospitality, the Pocono Mountains continue to demonstrate that major sporting events — when combined with rich travel experiences — can transform a traditional race weekend into a full-fledged tourism phenomenon.

This year’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Pocono Raceway isn’t just about fast cars and roaring engines — it’s about the Poconos’ economic revival, tourism influx, and summer adventure. Whether you’re a racing fan or a nature lover, the Poconos promises an unforgettable getaway experience. Make sure you book your trip early, as the magic of the race weekend is just the beginning of the great things Pennsylvania has to offer.

Hambleden is tucked away in the beautiful Chiltern Hills in Buckinghamshire, and is all so beautiful, it is a regular feature in major Hollywood films. The lovely English village is a great place for people wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life, and as such is very popular for films and TV shows.

A Hollywood Favourite

Hambleden’s unique blend of stunning landscapes, historical architecture, and timeless English charm has drawn production teams from Hollywood for decades. Its charming streets, rural vistas, and characterful cottages make it an ideal setting for films and TV shows looking for a quintessential British feel.

Over the years, Hambleden has appeared in several well-known films, including the 1968 classic Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, the adventure-packed The Avengers, the animated 101 Dalmatians, and Tim Burton’s Sleepy Hollow starring Johnny Depp. More recently, the village played host to Nanny McPhee Returns and the 2022 sequel to Enchanted, starring Amy Adams and Patrick Dempsey.

Why Filmmakers Choose Hambleden

The village’s timeless appeal lies in its perfect combination of natural beauty and historical authenticity. With its beautiful stone cottages, narrow lanes, and unspoiled countryside, Hambleden offers a picture-postcard setting that brings a touch of old-world charm to any production. Its proximity to London also makes it easily accessible for film crews while maintaining a peaceful, rural atmosphere.

Well-known directors, such as Tim Burton, have chosen Hambleden as a setting for their films due to its cinematic quality. Burton’s Sleepy Hollow, which required an eerie, gothic backdrop, benefited greatly from the village’s secluded, atmospheric nature. The enchanting landscape of Hambleden, with its rolling hills and ancient woodlands, fits perfectly with the themes of many films, enhancing the storytelling experience.

Explore the Village

Beyond its cinematic appeal, Hambleden offers plenty for travelers looking to immerse themselves in British village life. The heart of the village boasts its local amenities, including a quaint post office, café, and village shop that serve as a hub for locals and visitors alike. The village’s gastropub, The Stag and Huntsman, offers a warm welcome, serving delicious meals in a cosy setting that makes it a perfect stop after a leisurely stroll.

Visitors to Hambleden can also enjoy walking tours through the picturesque countryside surrounding the village. From charming lanes to expansive fields, the area is a haven for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. The nearby Culden Faw Estate, with its 3,500 acres of woodlands and parklands, is another gem that adds to the appeal of the area.

A Hub for Film Buffs and Nature Lovers Alike

For film enthusiasts, a trip to Hambleden is a chance to walk in the footsteps of iconic movie scenes. The village offers guided tours that take visitors to locations featured in famous films and TV series. Whether you’re a fan of Agatha Christie’s Poirot or Good Omens, Hambleden allows you to experience the magic of these productions firsthand.

For nature lovers, the stunning countryside surrounding the village offers an array of walking and cycling routes. The landscape of the Chiltern Hills, with its beech woodlands and chalk downs, is perfect for those looking to enjoy the outdoors. The area is home to a rich variety of wildlife and boasts some of the most beautiful views in England.

Stay in Style: Where to Sleep

If you’re planning to stay overnight, Hambleden offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different tastes. The village is home to The Stag and Huntsman, a boutique inn that blends traditional English charm with modern comforts. Perfect for those looking to experience a genuine village atmosphere, this inn provides a peaceful retreat with the added benefit of being close to filming locations and the village’s other attractions.

For those seeking a more rustic experience, the nearby countryside offers several charming bed and breakfasts and self-catering cottages. These options allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the rural English lifestyle.

How to Get There

Hambleden is located in Buckinghamshire, easily accessible by car from London and other major cities in southern England. The village is a short drive from the M40 motorway, making it an ideal day trip for those staying in or near London. Trains to the nearby town of Henley-on-Thames provide easy access to the village, with a short bus or taxi ride from the station to the heart of Hambleden.

Conclusion

Whether you love watching movies and want to see popular filming sites, or you are just looking to getaway to a calm little village, you’ll find what you need in Hambleden. The village’s beautiful setting, engaging story, and amazing appeal are the reasons this wonderful location is popular with film makers. Why not see the charm of Hambleden and walk the path of the movie stars?

Arch RoamRight has teamed up with Tern to revolutionize the travel insurance experience for both travelers and advisors. This groundbreaking partnership makes it easier than ever to purchase travel insurance directly during the booking process. As the first travel insurance provider integrated into Tern’s platform, Arch RoamRight is offering a seamless solution to travelers and advisors alike. With this collaboration, travel advisors can now conveniently provide insurance options alongside other travel services, streamlining the booking experience. Travelers benefit from instant access to trusted protection, ensuring they are covered from the start of their journey.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to innovation, making travel planning simpler and safer. By integrating travel insurance into Tern’s all-in-one platform, Arch RoamRight and Tern are paving the way for more efficient, accessible, and comprehensive travel solutions, enhancing the overall customer experience.

A Game-Changing Partnership for Travel Advisors

For years, travel advisors have faced challenges in offering travel insurance to clients at the right time—often struggling to integrate insurance options within their existing workflows. The collaboration between Arch RoamRight and Tern solves this issue by offering insurance solutions directly on the platform, ensuring that travelers and advisors can access and purchase the necessary protection easily as part of the travel planning process.

This partnership reflects both companies’ commitment to innovation and enhancing the travel experience. With Tern’s advanced technology, travel advisors are now able to offer Arch RoamRight’s trusted travel protection products seamlessly as part of their booking process. The result? A smoother journey for both the travel advisor and the customer.

The Integration: A Smooth Experience for Travelers

Travelers booking their trips via the Tern platform will now have immediate access to Arch RoamRight’s comprehensive travel insurance coverage, ensuring that they can easily purchase travel protection during the booking process. Whether it’s trip cancellation, emergency medical coverage, or lost baggage protection, Arch RoamRight’s insurance products are designed to cater to every travel need.

For many travelers, purchasing insurance can often be a last-minute afterthought. However, by offering travel protection products directly within the Tern platform, Arch RoamRight is removing the hassle of seeking insurance separately, which can often be confusing and time-consuming. Now, travelers can add insurance coverage while finalizing their bookings, offering them peace of mind from the very beginning of their journey.

Focus on Technology and Customer Experience

One of the key factors driving the partnership is the shared commitment to technology and improving the customer experience. Arch RoamRight has long been an industry leader in offering innovative travel insurance solutions. With its easy-to-use mobile app and robust online platform, Arch RoamRight provides customers with instant access to their insurance policies, claims tracking, and travel resources, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience while traveling.

On the other hand, Tern’s platform is specifically designed to simplify the travel planning process for both travelers and advisors. Tern’s ability to integrate a wide range of services, from booking flights to securing insurance, aligns perfectly with Arch RoamRight’s mission to streamline travel-related decisions for customers. This collaboration strengthens both brands’ efforts to make travel planning a more efficient, comprehensive, and enjoyable process.

Tern’s platform serves as a one-stop solution for all travel-related needs, providing advisors and travelers with the tools they need to navigate the complex world of travel. The inclusion of Arch RoamRight’s products means that travel insurance can now be seamlessly incorporated into the broader travel booking ecosystem, providing an all-inclusive, hassle-free experience for users.

The Future of Travel Insurance: Innovation at Its Core

The partnership between Arch RoamRight and Tern not only demonstrates a shift toward more integrated and seamless travel solutions but also highlights the broader trend of innovation in the travel insurance space. As the travel industry evolves, providing customers with quick, easy access to essential services like travel protection is becoming a top priority for companies looking to stay ahead in a competitive market.

The introduction of direct booking capabilities for travel insurance via Tern represents an important step forward in making travel insurance more accessible and user-friendly. As consumers continue to seek convenience, Arch RoamRight’s efforts to align itself with cutting-edge platforms like Tern signal a commitment to meeting the changing needs of today’s modern traveler.

Travel advisors, who often act as the key decision-makers for travelers, now have a powerful tool at their disposal, enabling them to offer clients enhanced value and streamlined service. The ability to offer travel protection products during the booking process not only boosts their operational efficiency but also enhances their relationship with customers by providing them with greater value at every stage of the booking process.

What This Means for Travelers

For travelers, this partnership signifies a significant shift in how travel protection is offered. No longer will travelers have to go through the tedious process of finding insurance products separately from their travel arrangements. The integration of Arch RoamRight’s insurance products within Tern’s platform ensures that travelers can purchase protection seamlessly as part of their booking experience.

Whether traveling for business, leisure, or a special occasion, travelers will have peace of mind knowing that their trips are protected from unexpected events. The ease with which they can access these insurance products directly through Tern’s platform reflects the growing demand for convenience in the travel industry. As a result, travelers are now more equipped than ever to protect their trips and ensure a safe, enjoyable journey.

Looking Ahead: The Growing Role of Technology in Travel Protection

As travel continues to rebound and evolve post-pandemic, technology will play an increasingly important role in shaping how the industry operates. The collaboration between Arch RoamRight and Tern is an excellent example of how travel companies are leveraging technology to improve the customer experience and meet the demands of modern travelers.

The partnership exemplifies the shift towards more integrated, user-friendly travel experiences that prioritize convenience, safety, and peace of mind. By providing a seamless solution for booking both travel and insurance in one place, Arch RoamRight and Tern are paving the way for a new era in travel insurance.

Conclusion

This innovative partnership between Arch RoamRight and Tern is set to redefine how travel insurance is offered and experienced. By integrating Arch RoamRight’s products directly into Tern’s platform, travelers can now purchase travel protection as part of their booking process, eliminating the hassle of seeking insurance separately. For travel advisors, this collaboration means greater efficiency and the ability to provide added value to their clients. As both companies continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what’s possible, travelers can look forward to an increasingly seamless and secure travel experience in the future.

Source: Stock Titan

Travelers will encounter delays on Oregon 99E due to maintenance work on the Abernethy Bridge. Bridge maintenance work is underway, and the hours will impact construction, planning, working, and other traffic. Because of this, planners will have to look for alternative routes to take.

Oregon 99E Closures

Oregon 99E will be closed for two nights to traffic for the construction of one of the bridge girders. Oregon 99E will be closed for the first time at 10 p.m. on Friday, February 12, and will be reopened at 5 a.m. on Saturday, February 13. It will have its last closure at 10 p.m. on Saturday at 7 a.m. and will be reopened on Sunday.

There may be a third overnight closure February 14-15 (Saturday to Sunday) depending on the progress of the bridge construction, which may impact the work zone traffic. For any immediate changes, travelers are advised to check the ODOT website or follow other local news sources.

Traffic Detour for Drivers and Pedestrians

Driver detour and traffic redirection along the construction zones and work areas will be directed to I-205 for bypass access, even along the overnight construction zone areas on Oregon 99E. Commuters are encouraged to travel along that route, as it is expected to be a lengthy closure and delay along the through-traffic section of I-205.

There will be access restrictions along the routes and areas available for pedestrians and bicyclists. Expected delays should be accounted for outside of the designated closure time. For the safety of construction personnel and for their own safety, adherence to provided construction safety control devices or zone controls is expected from the public and cyclists.

ODOT officials state that the closure will keep workers and the public safe. Crews will follow guidelines to keep the area safe and to make sure construction runs smoothly. I-205 will be the main detour, and walking on 99E will be open, but there will be some construction interruptions. Anticipate delays.

Construction on the Abernethy Bridge

Construction on the Abernethy Bridge will involve system girder installation, which is critical for the bridge’s future. These construction upgrades will help the bridge, which is essential to the city’s transportation system. Bridge upgrades are essential.

Keeping Oregon 99E open is a priority for the sake of the businesses and people who live there, but the area will be impacted. Planning ahead is recommended for residents, and businesses will see a change in customers.

Oregon City has road closures for maintenance, pending possible third closures over the weekend and the possible long-term closure of the bridge. This will change your travel for a few days. Check road closure updates from ODOT for the changes and adjust your travel strategies.

In Perspective: New Goals from Abernethy Bridge Construction

We appreciate your patience and understanding while we repair this crucial transportation resource and expand the bridge’s lifespan. This is part of the bridge’s overall upgrade project and maintenance work. ODOT considers this to be the “final stretch of the project.”

Please check ODOT’s website for updates and be mindful of the bridge roadwork and potential closures so you can organize your travel to avoid disruptions.

Conclusion

Travelers to Oregon City will need to adapt to the construction in the short term. The state will be closing Oregon 99E underneath the Abernethy Bridge from February 12 to 14. The closure will be necessary in the short term to preserve the state structure. Drivers will be required to use the detour via Interstate 205. Pedestrians and cyclists will be able to access the area and will have no more than a minor delay. Closures of this kind are quite disruptive, and ODOT and state authorities will work with travelers to ease the burden of the closures.

In the construction of new facilities in Oregon City, the goal will be to provide even more reliable and safe options. While necessary, the bridge construction will help provide even more safe options for those who travel on Oregon 99E.

West Virginia and Western Maryland are advised to closely monitor weather conditions as a fast-moving winter storm is expected to bring hazardous snow, freezing drizzle, and gusty winds on Wednesday morning. These conditions are likely to cause slippery roads, unsafe travel, and potential power outages, making it vital for residents and travelers to stay informed and prepared, particularly during the morning commute.

The storm will impact both regions, creating dangerous travel conditions from the early hours of the morning through the afternoon, as snow and freezing drizzle combine to make roads hazardous.

From about 3 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, light snow accumulation of up to one inch is expected in several areas, including western Garrett County in Maryland, as well as neighboring western Grant and Pendleton counties in West Virginia. In addition to the snow, periods of freezing drizzle are anticipated, which will likely create a glaze of ice on roads, bridges, and elevated surfaces. The combination of snow and ice will create dangerously slippery conditions.

Wind gusts could reach speeds of up to 45 mph, further complicating travel as the gusty winds may blow snow and ice across roadways. This could cause additional hazards, including fallen branches and isolated power outages, as trees weakened by the ice struggle to withstand the strong winds.

The most dangerous time for travel is expected to be late tonight through the Wednesday morning commute, with untreated roads and bridges potentially becoming slick. Even small amounts of ice can lead to hazardous driving conditions, particularly in areas like U.S. 219 and I-68 near the Backbone Mountain corridor. Secondary mountain roads will also be susceptible to ice buildup, making them a concern for early commuters.

Transportation crews from the Maryland Department of Transportation and the West Virginia Department of Highways will be actively treating priority routes to prevent icing, but drivers are urged to remain cautious, especially as road conditions can change rapidly. Higher elevations and shaded areas are more likely to experience freezing conditions, and sudden icy patches can appear unexpectedly. The gusty winds may also blow snow and ice across the roads, further impairing visibility and making driving more treacherous. Additionally, these strong winds could bring down tree limbs that have already been weakened by the freezing rain.

Residents and travelers in the affected areas should be prepared for difficult conditions on Wednesday morning. Schools and businesses in these regions should keep an eye on the weather and make adjustments accordingly. Given the hazardous travel conditions, it is highly recommended that non-essential travel be avoided, especially during the morning commute. Drivers should allow extra space between vehicles, slow down on curves, bridges, and overpasses, and exercise caution when approaching intersections or entering roads that might be covered in a thin layer of ice.

In addition to road safety, residents are advised to secure any loose outdoor items, such as patio furniture, trash bins, and decorations, which could be blown around by the high winds. Power outages are also a possibility due to fallen branches or downed power lines, so it’s wise to have backup plans for charging devices and to keep extra batteries on hand in case of an extended power disruption.

Travelers are urged to monitor weather conditions closely throughout the day, as winter storm conditions may persist longer than initially anticipated. Anyone planning to head out during the storm should check local forecasts and travel advisories before leaving. It’s crucial to keep updated on any potential road closures, delays, or service interruptions, especially in areas prone to more significant ice accumulation.

West Virginia and Western Maryland are urged to monitor weather conditions as hazardous winter weather, including snow, freezing drizzle, and gusty winds, is forecasted for Wednesday morning, creating dangerous travel and potential power outages.

In conclusion, residents and travelers in West Virginia and Western Maryland should stay vigilant as a winter storm brings hazardous conditions on Wednesday. With snow, freezing drizzle, and strong winds expected to create dangerous travel and potential power outages, it’s crucial to monitor updates and take necessary precautions. Limiting travel, securing outdoor items, and preparing for brief power disruptions will help ensure safety during this challenging weather event.

Google Maps lets you pick a vehicle to show where you are on the map. You can choose the type of car or truck and even its color. Right now, if you want to change your car, you have to do it on your phone. On Android Auto, you can see your chosen vehicle while driving, but you can’t change it from your car’s screen. That is about to change.

The Android Auto version 16.2.660604 shows a new option, Driving avatar, in the navigation settings. With this, you could pick your vehicle directly from your car’s screen. You can choose the style, like an SUV or a sports car, and even the color. It works just like the interface you see on your phone.

This change will also sync with your Google account. That means if you change your vehicle in the car, it will update on your phone too, and vice versa. So, you can pick up your car either way, in the car or on your phone.

Image via Android Authority

Most people may not change their avatar very often, but it’s a fun way to personalize your Maps experience. You can pick a car that looks like yours or even a dream car you wish you had.

Google hasn’t officially released this feature yet, but it seems ready and polished. Once it’s available, Android Auto users can make their navigation more fun and personal without touching their phone. Even though it’s a small feature, it adds a little extra enjoyment to everyday driving.

The post Android Auto to let users pick Google Maps vehicle avatars on the go appeared first on Sammy Fans.

State Street argues the US dollar could fall to multi-year lows if the Fed cuts rates more aggressively, a scenario that could shift capital toward Bitcoin and risk assets.

The integration allows Ledger users to execute multichain token swaps directly from the Wallet app while retaining hardware-based custody.

Multiple long-term Bitcoin valuation models suggest that BTC’s drop to $60,000 opened up a rare discounted buying opportunity. Do traders and institutional investors agree?

The six-month central bank pilot brings together market infrastructure providers, banks and Web3 companies to assess how core UK markets could move onchain.

New Grayscale research shows Bitcoin’s price behavior is increasingly tied to equities, particularly software stocks, challenging its long-held safe-haven narrative in the short term.

Apple is widely rumored to be introducing variable aperture on the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max later this year, and Samsung is apparently paying very close attention to iPhone-related rumors. That's because the Korean company is now said to be considering re-adding the feature to its lineup as well. The Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S10 both had variable aperture main cameras, but the feature was dropped with the Galaxy S20 generation in 2020. If Samsung does adopt it again, then expect to see it on the Galaxy S27 family next year, so after a seven-year hiatus. It's quite interesting how...

Following the drama surrounding Mohamed Salah, Arne Slot has restored him to the starting lineup in Liverpool’s most recent matches. However, the Egyptian’s future seems increasingly likely to move away from Anfield by the end of the season. In this context, the veteran is reportedly edging closer to a move to the Saudi Pro League, as Karim Benzema’s departure has opened the door for him to take on a leading role.

According to Santi Aouna of Footmercato, Al Ittihad are already in talks with Mohamed Salah’s agent to secure his arrival for the 2026–27 season. With the Egyptian still under contract at Liverpool until 2027, his departure could involve a transfer fee—something the club may be open to amid the issues they have experienced with the veteran this season. As a result, Salah could become the face of the Saudi Pro League.

Following the departures of N’Golo Kanté and Karim Benzema, Mohamed Salah could be offered an extremely high salary at Al Ittihad, valued at £400,000 per week (nearly $544,000 per week), reports the Daily Mirror. As a highly recognizable figure in the Middle East, the Egyptian’s arrival could have a significant cultural impact and head coach Sérgio Conceição would gain a prolific goalscoring figure, having lost his two biggest stars.

The Reds seem open to Mohamed Salah’s departure, but they would require a £30–50 million fee from a Saudi Pro League club to make it happen. With interest from Al Hilal and Al Qadsiah, Al Ittihad are moving quickly to finalize the operation, aiming to secure the Egyptian’s arrival for the 2026–27 season, according to Topskills Sports UK. Moreover, the veteran has supposedly already agreed to the proposal, leaving only the clubs to reach an agreement.

Liverpool face a major attacking shakeup as Salah’s exit looms

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Liverpool have experienced a rather particular offensive downturn, as the departure of Luis Díaz left the team without a true dribbling winger. Moreover, Mohamed Salah’s exit is approaching, which would leave the team without a range of wingers. In addition, the Reds are also looking to allow Federico Chiesa to leave for Serie A. For this reason, they are reportedly seeking to reinforce their offense.

According to several reports in England, the Reds are determined to target a dribbling winger to strengthen their offense. Backing the continuity of Dominik Szoboszlai as a right winger, they are instead looking toward Bradley Barcola or Yan Diomande to reinforce the left flank. With the sales of Chiesa and Salah, Liverpool could afford a move for either of the two stars, a deal that would exceed €100 million, TEAMtalk reports.

Neymar and Lionel Messi are close friends and never miss an opportunity to show their bond. In this case, the Brazilian forward gave the Argentine star a gift that also pays tribute to the FIFA World Cup icon Pele.

On Tuesday, Santos shared a photo on their official social media accounts showing Messi posing with the No. 10 Santos jersey featuring Neymar Jr’s name, accompanied by his sons Thiago and Mateo, who also received identical gifts.

“From Neymar Jr to Lionel Messi. From the Prince to the Genius,” the Brazilian club wrote in the post. “The Sacred Jersey, of immeasurable value, with the number eternalized by the King. 10 of Neymar. 10 of Messi. 10 of Pelé. An infinite legacy in the history of football. Greetings from Vila Belmiro, Lionel Messi!”

Indeed, it is a jersey with a glorious history. Pele was, of course, the most important player to wear it between 1956 and 1974, achieving six Brazilian Serie A titles, two Copa Libertadores, and two Intercontinental Cups. During that period, Pele also established himself as the most important player of his generation, leading Brazil to three World Cup titles in 1958, 1962, and 1970.

In more recent years, other stars have worn the No. 10 at Santos, including Robinho, Diego, Paulo Ganso, and Gabriel Barbosa. Neymar wore the No. 11 during his first spell at the club, but upon his return in early 2025, he assumed his superstar status and finally took the jersey that Pele wore for nearly two decades.

The friendship between Messi and Neymar goes beyond the present

Neymar and Messi first crossed paths on the field during the 2011 FIFA Club World Cup, when Barcelona beat Santos 4-0 to claim the title. Two years later, the Brazilian forward was signed by Barcelona and began a successful four-year spell alongside Messi.

That time together helped forge a deep friendship that endured even after Neymar’s controversial move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017. Four years later, Messi followed a similar path, and they were teammates in France for two more seasons.

Their friendship has remained strong since then, despite often being rivals at the international level. In fact, after defeating Neymar’s Brazil in the final of the 2021 Copa America, Messi briefly stepped away from Argentina’s celebrations to spend time talking with his friend on the sidelines.

Will Messi and Neymar meet again on the field?

Messi seems destined to finish his career with Inter Miami, where his contract runs until December 31, 2028, when he will be 41. Neymar, meanwhile, likely has several years left as a professional, having just turned 34. However, his future beyond this season remains uncertain.

Given the unlikely scenario of Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr. crossing paths again at the club level again—either as teammates or rivals—their next possible encounter may be at the international level.

Neymar’s main goal is to regain his best physical and sporting form to return to the Brazil national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. At the same time, while Messi has not confirmed it, everything indicates he will play his sixth World Cup with Argentina this summer. If both teams win their respective groups, Argentina and Brazil could meet in the semifinals.

Lionel Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami has fueled exponential growth for the franchise over the past few years, culminating in the club reaching the top of Major League Soccer in overall valuation. With Inter Miami now valued at $1.45 billion, questions naturally arise over where other star-linked franchises, such as Son Heung-min’s LAFC and Thomas Müller’s Vancouver Whitecaps, rank across the league.

Sportico, the sports business publication, released its annual MLS franchise valuation rankings for 2026, and for the first time in the list’s history, Inter Miami sits atop the league. The club’s valuation of $1.45 billion places it ahead of every other MLS franchise, reflecting both on-field success and rapid commercial growth.

Compared to the 2025 edition of Sportico’s rankings, the Messi-captained side ranked second with a valuation of $1.19 billion. Following their MLS Cup triumph and with the opening of Miami Freedom Park approaching, the Herons posted a one-year valuation increase of 22 percent, the largest jump in the league, ahead of Chicago Fire FC, which recorded a 20 percent rise.

Where do LAFC and the Whitecaps rank?

With Inter Miami now leading MLS in valuation, attention shifts to where the rest of the league’s marquee clubs fall in the rankings. Son Heung-min’s LAFC, which had topped Sportico’s MLS valuations in every previous edition, now sits second with a valuation of $1.4 billion.

Despite losing the top spot, LAFC have hardly experienced a downturn. After being valued at $1.28 billion in 2025, the club posted a 9 percent annual increase, reinforcing its status as one of the league’s most financially successful and stable franchises.

Rounding out the top 10 are LA Galaxy ($1.17 billion), Atlanta United ($1.14 billion), New York City FC ($1.12 billion), Seattle Sounders FC ($915 million), Austin FC ($910 million), Columbus Crew ($800 million), and FC Cincinnati ($790 million). Meanwhile, despite being one of the headline moves of the 2025 summer transfer window, Vancouver Whitecaps are notably absent from the league’s top tier.

In fact, the Thomas Müller-led Whitecaps saw a decline year over year, both in position and valuation. Vancouver ranks 29th among MLS franchises at $450 million, reflecting a 4 percent annual decrease, ahead of only CF Montréal, which sits last at $430 million.

How much were Inter Miami worth before Lionel Messi?

Since their founding in 2018, Inter Miami’s most recognizable figure had been co-owner David Beckham, with the club steadily growing but remaining outside the league’s top valuation tier. In Sportico’s 2022 report, the Herons ranked 10th in MLS with a valuation of $585 million.

Messi’s arrival in 2023 proved transformative. Inter Miami surged to a $1.02 billion valuation in the 2024 report, and with nearly another half-billion added since then, Messi’s impact has extended well beyond the pitch, reshaping the club’s global profile and financial standing.

Galatasaray Daikin Kadın Voleybol Takımı, Vodafone Sultanlar Ligi'nin 21. haftasında Aras Kargo ile karşılaştı. Galatasaray mücadeleyi 3-1 kazandı.

Galatasaray Daikin Kadın Voleybol Takımı, Vodafone Sultanlar Ligi'nin 21. haftasında konuk ettiği Aras Kargo'yu 3-1 yendi.

Salon: Burhan Felek Vestel

Hakemler: Ramazan Çevik, Yasin Çalışkan

Galatasaray Daikin: İlkin Aydın, Yasemin Güveli, Carutasu, Sylla, YuanYuan, Bongaerts (Eylül Yatgın, Aslı Tecimer)

Aras Kargo: Aslıhan Kılıç, Kalandadze, Merve Atlıer, Anthouli, Perez, Özgenur Çetiner (Simay Kurt, Sude Taşbaş, İrem Çor, Defne Başyolcu, Olaya)

Setler: 20-25, 25-19, 25-21, 25-14

Süre: 107 dakika (27, 26, 29, 25)

Beşiktaş GAİN Erkek Basketbol Takımı, BKT Avrupa Kupası B Grubu 18. ve son haftasında Yunanistan temsilcisi Panionios ile karşılaştı. Ev sahibi takım taraftarları "çirkin" bir pankart açtı. Beşiktaş ise cevabı 74-114'lük galibiyetle verdi.

Beşiktaş GAİN Erkek Basketbol Takımı, BKT Avrupa Kupası B Grubu 18. ve son haftasında konuk olduğu Yunanistan temsilcisi Panionios'u 40 sayı farkla 114-74 yendi.

Başkent Atina'daki Makis Liougas Spor Salonu'nda oynanan mücadeleye iyi başlayan taraf, ev sahibi Panionios oldu. Yunanistan temsilcisi, mücadelenin 5. dakikasını 15-13 önde geçti. Bu bölümden sonra üstünlüğü ele geçiren siyah-beyazlılar, ilk çeyreği 31-26 önde tamamladı. İkinci çeyreğe 10-0'lık seriyle giren Beşiktaş, farkı çift haneye çıkardı. Periyodun sonuna kadar etkili oyununu sürdüren siyah-beyazlı ekip, devre arasına 59-37 üstün girdi.

Maçın ikinci yarısında da hücumda etkili olan Beşiktaş, 25. dakikada 31 sayılık fark (41-72) yakaladı. Rakibine farkı kapatma şansı vermeyen siyah-beyazlılar, 29. dakikada farkı 34 sayıya (46-80) çıkardı. İyi bir maç çıkartan Beşiktaş, bitime 2 dakika 36 saniye kala 45 sayılık (65-110) fark buldu. Siyah-beyazlılar, kalan bölümde rahat bir oyun sergileyerek sahadan 114-74 galip ayrıldı.

Grubunu ilk 2 sırada bitirmeyi ve çeyrek finale yükselmeyi geçen hafta garantileyen Beşiktaş GAİN, 13. galibiyetini alarak maç fazlasıyla liderliğe yükseldi. Beşiktaş, grup liderliği için ikili averajda üstün olduğu ve haftaya zirvede giren Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse'nin yarın yapacağı maçı kaybetmesini bekleyecek.

Panionios ise 15. yenilgisini yaşayarak grubu son sırada tamamladı.

Yedi oyuncu çift haneye ulaştı

Beşiktaş'ta süre alan tüm oyuncular skor üretirken 7'si çift haneye ulaştı.

Siyah-beyazlılarda Vitto Brown ile Anthony Brown on beşer, Morgan 14, Thomas 12, Yiğit Arslan 11, Dotson ve Kamagate onar, Zizic 8, Lemar 7, Mathews ile Sertaç Şanlı beşer, Berk Uğurlu ise 2 sayı üretti.

Mücadeleyi 10 ribauntla tamamlayan Kamagate, "double-double" yaparak galibiyete katkı verdi.

Yunan takımında ise 19 sayı kaydeden Watson, maçın en skoreri olmasına rağmen farklı mağlubiyeti önleyemedi.

Beşiktaş Avrupa Kupası'nda rekor kırdı

Siyah-beyazlı takım, BKT Avrupa Kupası'nda en fazla sayı bulduğu maçı oynadı.

Panionios karşısında 114 sayı atan Beşiktaş, kulüp tarihinin bu turnuvadaki sayı rekorunu kırdı.

"Kara Kartal" geçen sezon BKT Avrupa Kupası A Grubu dördüncü haftasında sahasında Almanya'nın Ratiopharm Ulm ekibini 107-74 yenerek sayı rekoru kırmıştı.

Yunan taraftarlardan "çirkin" pankart

Panionios-Beşiktaş müsabakasında ev sahibi takım taraftarları "çirkin" bir pankart açtı.

Başkent Atina'daki Makis Liougas Spor Salonu'nda yapılan mücadelede Yunan taraftarlar, Beşiktaş Kulübüne ve siyah-beyazlı taraftarlara küfür ve hakaret içeren ifadelerin yer aldığı pankartı tribüne astı.

Fenerbahçe'nin galibiyetinde başrol oynayan Marco Asensio, hem oyun kurucu kimliği hem de bitiriciliğiyle Süper Lig'e damga vurmaya devam ediyor. 2026 Dünya Kupası öncesi İspanya Milli Takımı teknik heyetine de güçlü bir mesaj gönderiyor.

Fenerbahçe'nin sahadan 3-1 galip ayrıldığı Gençlerbirliği maçında Marco Asensio takımın beyni olarak sahnedeydi. Asensio, 3-1'lik skorla biten mücadelede oyunun her alanına dokunarak komple bir performans sergiledi. 1 asist yapmasının yanı sıra, 3 kilit pas ve 1 yaratılan büyük şans ile hücumun merkezindeydi.

Rakip yarı sahada %92 pas isabeti (23/25) ile oynayarak baskının sürekliliğini sağladı. 2 şutundan birinin direkten dönmesi, maçın skorunun onun adına daha da farklı olabileceğini gösterdi. 0.64 Asist Beklentisi (xA), yaptığı asistin tesadüf olmadığını, doğru pozisyon almada ne kadar usta olduğunu kanıtladı.

Matador bu sezon ulaştığı 9 gol ve 7 asistlik performansıyla kariyerindeki en fazla gol katkısı sağladığı dönemi yaşıyor. Real Madrid ve PSG gibi devlerde geçirdiği dönemlerin ardından Türkiye'de "ikinci baharını" yaşıyor.

Fenerbahçe Teknik Direktörü Domenico Tedesco, maç sonrası yaptığı açıklamalarda Asensio'nun milli takım kapısını sonuna kadar zorladığını belirtti:

Asensio, çok üst düzey bir oyuncu ve Dünya Kupası'nda olmak için tüm kaliteye sahip. İyi ki kararı ben vermiyorum; İspanya'da çok fazla iyi oyuncu var ve seçim yapmak zor, ancak Marco'nun kalitesi tartışılmaz.

Dursun Özbek yönetiminin Fabian Ruiz, Fofana ve Gueye gibi bahsi geçen yıldızların kulüpleriyle hiç görüşmediği geçen sezon Mario Lemina gibi bir süreç yaşamamak için isimlerini kullandığı iddia edildi.

Galatasaray camiası transfer döneminin kapanmasıyla birlikte büyük bir hayal kırıklığı ve "yönetimsel strateji" tartışmalarıyla çalkalanıyor.

Özellikle teknik direktör Okan Buruk’un süreç boyunca yaptığı açıklamalar ile gerçekleşen hamleler arasındaki uçurum, "Buruk kandırıldı mı?" sorularının yüksek sesle sorulmasına neden oldu.

Okan Buruk, transfer dönemi boyunca taraftara ve camiadan sabır istedi. Hedefin "direkt katkı sağlayacak" isimler olduğunu vurguladı. 28 Ocak tarihini işaret etti.

- Şampiyonlar Ligi'nde bu oyuncuları oynatamayacağımız için biraz daha zamana ihtiyacımız var. Doğru zamanda, doğru oyuncuları getireceğiz. Sıkı bir çalışma yapıyoruz.

Ancak gelinen noktada, "direkt katkı" beklenen 8 numara transferi yapılmadı. Kadroya güçlü rotasyon için Noa Lang ve Boey dahil edildi. Asprilla, Nhaga ve Can Armando ise sadece "yatırımlık" oyuncular olarak geldi.

İddianın büyüğü ise yönetimin taraftar baskısını kırmak adına Fabian Ruiz, Fofana ve Gueye gibi dünya yıldızlarıyla ilgilendiği algısını yarattığı oldu. Yine aynı iddialara göre yönetim bahsi geçen yıldızlar için kulüplerine hiçbir zaman resmi bir bonservis teklifi iletilmedi. İlk amaç daime önce oyuncuları ikna edip ardından kulüplerine "Biz oyuncuyla anlaştık, satın alma opsiyonuyla kiralayın" stratejisi oldu.

Geçtiğimiz Ocak ayında Mario Lemina transferi taraftarın yoğun baskısı sayesinde gerçekleşti. Bu sezon da benzer bir baskı oluşmaması için yönetimin "yıldız isimlerle görüşülüyor" imajı çizdi. Ancak somut bir adım hiç atılmadı. Okan Buruk her ne kadar kamuoyu önünde nezaketini korusa da, transferlerin yetişmemesi yüzünden kırgın ve kızgın.

Matteo Guendouzi'nin bonservisi 28 milyon Euro... ancak kolay (4 milyon Euro) ve zor bonuslarla (8 milyon Euro) 40 milyon Euro'ya yükselme riski var. Aynı şekilde maaşı 4.5 milyon Euro... ancak kolay (2 milyon Euro) ve zor bonuslarla (2 milyon Euro) maaşının da 8.5 milyon Euro'ya yükselme ihtimali bulunuyor.

Fenerbahçe'nin oyuncusu Mattéo Guendouzi transferinde rakamlar netleşmeye başladı. Toplam maliyeti ve maaş yapısıyla dikkat çeken transferin detayları "En-Nesyri modelini" anımsatan bir bonus sistemine dayanıyor.

Lazio ile yapılan anlaşmaya göre Fransız oyuncunun transferin en dikkat çekici yanı peşinat ödenmemesi. Toplam 28 milyon Euro’luk ana bonservis bedeli iki taksite bölünmüş durumda. İlk taksit Temmuz'da 15 milyon Euro olarak ödenecek. 13 milyon Euro'luk ikinci taksit ise lig başladığında.

Guendouzi’nin transferinin toplam bonservis maliyetinin başarıya endeksli maddelerle birlikte 40 milyon Euro seviyesine ulaşacağı iddiası ise camiada "neler oluyor" dedirtmeye başladı. Oyuncunun sahaya çıktığı maç sayısına bağlı olarak devreye girecek olan 4 milyon euro'luk bir bonus maddesi var. Ayrıca şampiyonluk ve Şampiyonlar Ligi’ne katılım gibi kulüp başarılarına endeksli toplamda 8 milyon euro'luk bir de zor bonusun bahsi geçiyor.

Guendouzi'nin maaş tablosu da başlangıç rakamı olan 4.5 milyon euro'nn çok üzerine çıkabilecek bir esnekliğe sahip. Tıpkı En-Nesyri transferinde olduğu gibi "düşük" görünen baz maaşın üzerine eklenen bonuslar toplam kazancı ikiye katlayacak cinsten. Kolay bonuslar (maç sayısına bağlı) 2 milyon Euro civarında. Zor bonuslar da (başarı odaklı) yine 2 milyon Euro civarında.

Sergen Yalçın'ın "kazanmak için inanmadığım şeyleri söyledim" dediği Rafa Silva'nın Beşiktaş'tan ayrılığının arasında "güven ve samimiyet" sorunun yattığı iddia edildi.

Rafa Silva gitti ancak Portekizli oyuncuyla ilgili dedikodular bitmedi... bitecek gibi de durmuyor. Sergen Yalçın’ın Portekizli yıldızla yaptığı görüşmeye dair "İnanmadığım şeyleri söyledim" itirafının ardından, cepheler arasındaki gerilim yeni bir boyut kazandı.

Sergen Yalçın, Rafa Silva’nın antrenmanlara çıkmayı reddettiği dönemde oyuncuyu geri kazanmaya çalıştığını ancak bunu samimi olmayan bir yöntemle denediğini dile getirdi.

- Rafa'yı çağırdım, 'Sen bizim en iyi oyuncumuzsun, hedefe bizi sen götüreceksin' dedim. Bunları söylerken aslında inanmıyordum, sadece durumu kurtarmaya çalışıyordum ama yine de ikna olmadı.

İddialara göre Rafa Silva’nın Sergen Yalçın ile arasındaki köprüleri tamamen atmasının temelinde bu "güven ve samimiyet" sorunu yatıyor. Silva’nın, hocasnın kendisine karşı dürüst olmadığını hissettiği ve bu konuşma tarzından ciddi şekilde rahatsızlık duyduğu iddia ediliyor.

Yıldız oyuncunun, profesyonellikten uzak bulduğu bu yaklaşım sonrası takımdan tamamen koptuğu ifade ediliyor. Yalçın, oyuncuyu idare etmenin imkansız olduğunu savunurken, kulübün bu ayrılıktan sağladığı ekonomik ferahlığın göz ardı edilmemesi gerektiğini vurguladı.

En az 20 milyon euro'luk bir karları olduğunu savundu. Ancak 18 milyon Euro, stoper Agbadou'ya yatırıldı.

Youssef En Nesyri devre arasında Fenerbahçe'den Al Ittihad'a transfer olmuştu. Faslı golcü ilk golünü Şampiyonlar Ligi'nde attı.

Youssef En Nesyri devre arasında Fenerbahçe'den Al Ittihad'a transfer oldu. En-Nesyri ilk maçına 2-0 kaybedilen Al Nassr maçında çıktı. İkinci maçına ise Asya Şampiyonlar Ligi'nde çıktı ve maça ilk 11'de başladı.

28 yaşındaki futbolcu, 3. dakikada ağları sarsarak yeni takımında ilk golünü attı.

Torreira'nın saha içindeki performansını korumak, saha dışındaki ruhsal dengesini sağlamak için Galatasaray yönetimi konusunun uzmanı Grisel Marachlian'ı spor psikoloğu olarak görevlendirdi.

Lucas Torreira üst üste yaşadığı ailevi dramlar ve Güney Amerika’ya dönme arzusuyla kariyerinin en zorlu virajında. Uzman Spor Psikoloğu Grisel Marachlian’la terapilere başlayan Uruguaylı yıldız derin krizlerde çözümün sadece sahada olmadığını da anlamış durumda.

Spor Psikoloğu Grisel Marachlian’ın uzmanlık alanına giren "yas yönetimi", Torreira gibi elit sporcular için kritik bir süreç. Marachlian’ın metodolojisine göre, Torreira'ya verilecek destek çok değerli.

Torreira’nın profesyonel bir "savaşçı" kimliğinin ötesinde, yas tutan bir evlat olduğu gerçeği ön plana çıktı. Marachlian, sporcunun bastırılmış duygularının sahada "odak kaybı" veya "ani öfke patlamalarına" yol açmaması için güvenli bir dışavurum alanı oluşturulmasını sağlamaya çalışıyor olmalı.

Torreira'nın Arjantin (Boca Juniors) veya Brezilya seçeneklerini değerlendirmesi, ailesine yakın olma güdüsüyle doğrudan bağlantılı olduğu kabul ediliyor.

Bu noktada psikolojik destek Uruguaylının isteğini duygusal bir kaçış istediğine işaret ediyor gibi duruyor.

Okan Buruk'un 750 gün sonra Galatasaray formasıyla sahaya dönen Sacha Boey'den beklentisi Juventus maçlarına karşısına koyacağı Kenan Yıldız'ı sahadan silmesi.

Galatasaray taraftarının sevgilisi Sacha Boey tam 750 gün aradan sonra yeniden parçalıyı sırtına geçirdi. Dönüşüyle camiada büyük heyecan yaratan Fransız sağ bekin kısa süreli (75'nci dakikada oyuna girdi) performansı ve Juventus maçı öncesi Okan Buruk’un planlarına giriş şekli dikkat çekiyor.

Uzun bir aranın ardından Galatasaray forması giyen Boey'un maç sonunda duyguları çok netti.

- Çok çok mutluyum yeniden burada olmaktan. Geri dönmekten mutluyum. Yolumuza iyi şekilde devam ediyoruz.

Boey, ayağının tozuyla çıktığı ilk maçta fiziksel gücü ve oyun disipliniyle bıraktığı yerden devam ettiğinin sinyallerini verdi. Özellikle hücum bölgesindeki pas isabeti göz doldurdu.

Topla Buluşma  20

Rakip Yarı Sahada Pas İsabeti 10/10 (%100)

Kazanılan İkili Mücadele  2

Savunma Katkısı / Geri Kazanma  1 / 1

Top Kaybı  3

Teknik direktör Okan Buruk, Boey'in dönüşüyle birlikte Şampiyonlar Ligi’ndeki Juventus maçı için stratejisini belirlemeye başladı. Buruk’un, İtalyan devinin parlayan yıldızı Kenan Yıldız'ı etkisiz hale getirmek için sağ bekte fizik gücü ve hızıyla bilinen Sacha Boey’i görevlendirmesi bekleniyor.

Rizespor maçının yıldızlarından Noa Lang için "30 milyon Euro verilir mi?" tartışması çok erken başladı... destek ve köstek olan mesajların daha ikinci maçtan ortaya çıkması herkesi şaşırttı.

Galatasaray yeni transferi Noa Lang, adaptasyon sürecinin takım arkadaşlarının desteğiyle hızlandığını itiraf etti. Taraftarın enerjisinden övgüyle bahsetti. Sampiyonluk yarışı hakkındaki soruya özgüven dolu bir yanıt verdi:

- Sadece kendimize odaklanıyoruz. Şu an sürücü koltuğunda olan biziz!

Takım içindeki kimyanın her hafta daha iyiye gittiğini vurgulayan Lang, henüz %100 performansına ulaşmadığını ve maç ritmi kazandıkça daha iyisini yapacağını da sözlerine ekledi.

Okan Buruk da Noa Lang’ın enerjisinden oldukça memnun.

- Noa, oynadığı oyundan zevk alan bir isim. Sadece skor üretmiyorlar, öndeki tüm oyuncularımız (Barış, Yunus, Osimhen) savunmaya da katkı sağlıyor. Takım içindeki bu rekabet, başarı için en önemli anahtarımız.

Noa Lang’ın performansı camiada iki farklı görüşü beraberinde getirdi.

- Olumlu Görüşler

Osimhen için muazzam bir servisçi ve "faydalı" bir partner. Dikine pasları ve içeri kateden oyun yapısıyla yaratıcı. Barış Alper ile yakaladığı uyum umut verici.

- Negatif Düşünceler

30 milyon Euro'luk değerine dair mali şüpheler. Fiziksel olarak daha agresif ve dirençli olması gerekliliği. Savunma yardımı konusunda Sane'nin gerisinde kalması.

Rizespor maçı öncesi ısınmasında Barış Alper ile Noa Lang’ın özel olarak çalıştığı "gol provası" aksiyonları, sahada meyvesini verdi.

Galatasaray yönetimi ve teknik heyeti tam da Fotospor'un yazdığı gibi Renato Nhaga'yı kısa vadeli değil, gelecekteki büyük yatırımı olarak görüyor. Genç oyuncu, fiziksel açıklarını kapattıktan sonra asıl patlama yapacağı planlar üzerinde çalışılıyor.

Galatasaray’ın genç yeteneği Renato Nhaga, Şampiyonlar Ligi listesinin dışında kalınca gözler teknik heyete çevrilmişti. Fotospor, Okan Buruk’un bu kararı, sadece taktiksel bir tercih değil, oyuncuyu korumayı amaçlayan bilimsel bir veriye dayandıran bir haber yaptı.

O haberinde Fotospor, Nhaga'nın dışarıda kalmasının nedeninin 3 test olduğunu yazdı.

1. Kas Kütlesi ve "Fiziksel Çarpışma" Riski

2. İzokinetik Testler: Hız Var, Fren Yok

3. Kemik Gelişimi Henüz Tamamlanmadı

Rizespor maçı sonrası açıklamalarda bulunan Okan Buruk, genç oyuncuya olan güvenini ve izledikleri stratejiyi şu sözlerle özetledi:

- Nhaga'ya durumu anlattık. Galatasaray'ın geleceği için çok önemli bir potansiyel. Ancak Şampiyonlar Ligi farklı bir arena; orada daha tecrübeli isimlerle devam etmeyi seçtik. Nhaga'yı bugün kullanıp bitirmek yerine, gelişimini tamamlamasını bekleyip onu bir yıldız olarak inşa etmek istiyoruz.

Fenerbahçe'de basketboldan sorumlu yönetici Cem Ciritci'nin 'isim sponsorluğunda bir değişiklik olabilir' açıklaması sonrasında gözler Beko'nun yerine Ülker'in geçmesi sürecine kilitlendi.

Fenerbahçe Beko'dan sezon sonu itibarıyla dev isim değişikliği bekleniyor. Basketboldan sorumlu yönetici Cem Ciritci’nin geçtiğimiz günlerde yaptığı “isim sponsorluğunda bir değişiklik olabilir” açıklaması kulisleri zaten hareketlendirmişti.

Mevcut isim sponsoru Beko’nun, sezon başında belirlenen bütçe sınırlarının dışına çıkmadığı (Nigel Hayes-Davis transferi için ekstra ödenek sağlanmadı) şu dönemde, Ülker'in yeniden isim sponsoru olarak döneceği iddiası iyice arttı.

Cem Ciritci’nin daha önce vurguladığı, “nütçeyi kısmayacağız. Fenerbahçe hep Final Four ve şampiyonluk kovalayacak seviyede kalacak. Bunun için plan ve programlarımızı yapıyoruz” sözleri, olası bir Ülker anlaşmasıyla finansal gücün yeniden eski haline getirilmesi için hazırlık yapıldığı konuşuluyor.

İddialara göre Beko ile olan iş birliğinin ardından Ülker’in yeniden ana sponsor ve isim ortağı olması için görüşmeler sürüyor. Değişikliğin zamanlaması henüz netlik kazanmadı. Hedef sezon sonu olarak öne çıktı.

Beşiktaş'tan ayrılmak istediği iddia edilen Vaclav Cerny'den iddialar hakkında net cevap geldi.

Beşiktaş'ta Çekyalı yıldızı Vaclav Cerny'nin "ayrılmak istiyor" iddiaları gündeme gelmişti. İddialardan kısa süre sonra, Beşiktaş Kulübü resmi açıklama yayımlayarak 28 yaşındaki oyuncunun ayrılmak istediğine dair iddiaları yalanladı.

Cerny'den de iddialara için bir cevap geldi. Vaclav Cerny, sosyal medya hesabından Fenerbahçe'yi mağlup ettikleri Ziraat Türkiye Kupası karşılaşmasının sonunda siyah-beyazlı taraftarlara üçlü çektirdiği videoyu paylaşarak "stres yok" anlamına gelen "No stress" notunu düştü ve yanına kartal emojisi ekledi.

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Giovanni Manna insists the Coppa Italia quarter-final against Como is ‘a very important competition,’ but he wishes Napoli had played this season ‘with a normal number of injuries.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

The winner will be decided after 90 minutes or go straight to a penalty shoot-out, as there is no extra time, to decide who faces Inter in the semi-final.

Como are well-rested, because their Serie A Week 24 fixture against Milan was rescheduled to February 18 due to San Siro being used for the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony.

Napoli reshuffle again in Coppa Italia

“This is part of the sport, it’s not our fault and not theirs either, so we are not seeking any alibis,” Manna told Sport Mediaset.

“It is a very important competition, we want a prestigious semi-final against Inter. We are accustomed now to playing in difficult circumstances, so we’ll give our best.”

Scott McTominay aggravated an inflammation of the tendon in his thigh and is therefore rested, with David Neres, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Billy Gilmour and Kevin De Bruyne injured.

It means January signing Giovane gets his first start for Napoli, while Alisson Santos is on the bench. Are they the buys Manna wanted in mid-season?

“It was certainly more complicated than we had hoped, we tried to do some other deals, but the parameters weren’t suitable. So we decided to focus on two young players with margin for significant improvement and in my view can be functional for our style of football both today and in future.

“So we are eager to see them in action, but also in no rush.”

Others like Matteo Politano and Romelu Lukaku are only fit for the bench, while Alessandro Buongiorno is left out after his disastrous performance against Genoa.

Goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic returns after several weeks out with a muscular problem, especially as his penalty save allowed Napoli to earn a 0-0 draw here with Como in November.

“I would prefer to have seen how things would’ve gone if we’d had the full squad at our disposal, or at least a normal number of injuries. I’d have loved to be able to see how this team would’ve handled the season in normal circumstances,” noted Manna when asked how the campaign was going.

“Seeing as that was not possible, we have to look forward. We already won the Supercoppa Italiana, we have the chance to progress in the Coppa Italia, it’s true we went out of the Champions League, but in Serie A we are pretty much where we expected to be.

“What happened is not an alibi. We are fortunate enough to have a great squad, a real coach, and a group with guts. That has allowed us to stay pretty much on track, then we’ll see what happens.”

Khephren Thuram reveals what it feels like to face his brother Marcus and why he thinks their father Lilian will be cheering on Juventus against Inter. ‘Our whole family will be in the stands.’

The Derby d’Italia kicks off at San Siro on Saturday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

Neutrals will be hoping for a repeat of the extraordinary thriller that saw Juve emerge 4-3 winners in stoppages, with both Thuram brothers on target.

Thuram brothers face off in Derby d’Italia

“When you grow up with a brother who plays football, it’s natural you would always love to be in the same team,” Khephren told Sky Sport Italia.

“In school, we would always pick each other first to go into our sides. But now we are professionals, we both play for big Italian clubs, and that is good too. I hope to play many games alongside him for France.

“I expect a great game, because these are two big teams, both playing well, and tough on a tactical level. It will be difficult for both sides.”

Will the two brothers speak before the big match this weekend?

“We speak every day, but never about matches. We discuss more important things than football. Our whole family will be in the stands this time, though.”

It is a situation where their father, former Juventus and Parma defender Lilian, is going to feel a little torn.

However, Khephren has an idea of why the Bianconeri might get the benefit of a smile from their dad.

“He will be neutral, but I am the baby, so perhaps he’ll have a little bit more attention towards me.”

Juventus have certainly boosted their form since Luciano Spalletti took over from Igor Tudor, so how does the coach differ from his predecessor?

“He asks me to always keep moving, to anticipate the play, but the most important thing is to play with my qualities and know that I am strong,” said Khephren Thuram.

“He is one of the coaches who most in my career has tried to make me understand my own strength. I enjoy working with him, he also gives me tips on where to improve, but I’ll keep those details to myself.

“Spalletti is very demanding with the team, he asks us for many things, and we try to deliver for him.”

With Scott McTominay out of action, Napoli rely on Rasmus Hojlund, Giovane and returning Vanja Milinkovic-Savic against Nico Paz’s Como in the Coppa Italia quarter-final.

It kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

The winner will be decided after 90 minutes or go straight to a penalty shoot-out, as there is no extra time.

Whoever goes through can then prepare for the semi-final against Inter.

Napoli earned a controversial last-gasp 3-2 victory away to Genoa in Serie A at the weekend, but McTominay felt pain from a recurring inflammation after scoring one of the goals.

He is therefore rested, with the usual list of absentees like David Neres, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Billy Gilmour and Kevin De Bruyne.

The good news is that goalkeeper Milinkovic-Savic is available after a couple of weeks out, with Matteo Politano and Romelu Lukaku fit for the bench.

January signing Giovane therefore steps into the trident attack with Hojlund and Antonio Vergara, dropping Eljif Elmas into midfield to replace McTominay.

Como have been the surprise outfit of this season under coach Cesc Fabregas, and already held Napoli to a 0-0 draw here in Serie A.

Nico Paz is the star man in attack, with impressive Martin Baturina and Jayden Addai, but with Tasos Douvikas and Alvaro Morata on the bench, it’s possible the Argentine will be used as a False 9.

Edoardo Goldaniga and Assane Diao are on the treatment table, but the squad is rested because their Serie A Week 24 fixture with Milan was postponed to February 18 so San Siro could prepare for the Winter Olympics opening ceremony.

Of course, this is a big reunion for Fabregas and Antonio Conte, who worked together to win the FA Cup at Chelsea.

It could also be the first Coppa Italia semi-final for Como in 40 years, since eliminating then reigning Champions of Italy Verona in 1986.

Napoli vs. Como official line-ups

Napoli: Milinkovic-Savic; Beukema, Rrahmani, Juan Jesus; Mazzocchi, Lobotka, Elmas, Olivera; Giovane, Vergara; Hojlund

Como: Butez; Smolcic, Ramon, Diego Carlos, Valle; Perrone, Sergi Roberto; Addai, Caqueret, Baturina; Nico Paz

10-02-2026 20:00

1/4 Final

Stadio Diego Armando Maradona

Napoli

Como

vs

Season Analytics

Napoli

Positions

Como

SEASON TOTAL

NAP HOME

0

1

0

0

1

0

Last matches

03-12-2025

Cagliari

D

1 - 1

03-12-2025

Cagliari

D

1 - 1

SEASON TOTAL

COM AWAY

1

0

0

3

0

0

Last matches

	1 - 3	W	Fiorentina		27-01-2026
	3 - 0	W	Sassuolo		24-09-2025
	3 - 1	W	Südtirol		16-08-2025

1 - 3

W

Fiorentina

27-01-2026

Napoli

Como

Starting lineups

32

Vanja Milinković-Savić

Goalkeeper

13

Amir Rrahmani

Defender

5

Juan Jesus

Defender

17

Mathías Olivera

Defender

30

Pasquale Mazzocchi

Defender

31

Sam Beukema

Defender

26

Antonio Vergara

Midfielder

20

Eljif Elmas

Midfielder

68

Stanislav Lobotka

Midfielder

23

Giovane

Attacker

19

Rasmus Højlund

Attacker

1

Jean Butez

Goalkeeper

3

Álex Valle

Defender

34

Diego Carlos

Defender

28

Ivan Smolcic

Defender

14

Jacobo Ramón

Defender

20

Martin Baturina

Midfielder

6

Maxence Caqueret

Midfielder

23

Máximo Perrone

Midfielder

10

Nico Paz

Midfielder

8

Sergi Roberto

Midfielder

42

Jayden Addai

Attacker

Substitutes

37

Leonardo Spinazzola

Defender

1

Alex Meret

Goalkeeper

21

Matteo Politano

Attacker

14

Nikita Contini

Goalkeeper

4

Alessandro Buongiorno

Defender

9

Romelu Lukaku

Attacker

3

Miguel Gutiérrez

Defender

27

Alisson Santos

Attacker

98

Emmanuele De Chiara

Midfielder

95

Vincenzo Prisco

Midfielder

31

Mërgim Vojvoda

Defender

7

Álvaro Morata

Attacker

22

Mauro Vigorito

Goalkeeper

77

Ignace Van Der Brempt

Defender

18

Alberto Moreno

Defender

11

Anastasios Douvikas

Attacker

33

Lucas Da Cunha

Attacker

2

Marc Oliver Kempf

Defender

19

Nicolas Kühn

Attacker

17

Jesús Rodriguez

Attacker

21

Noel Törnqvist

Goalkeeper

98

Samuele Pisati

Attacker

Adrian Lahdo

Midfielder

Vincenzo Italiano outlines where Bologna must be more alert and effective if they are to break the crisis against Lazio in the Coppa Italia quarter-final. ‘We must battle for every ball.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Dall’Ara on Wednesday at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

The winners will be decided after 90 minutes or go directly to a penalty shoot-out, as there is no provision for extra time.

Whoever emerges will then go on to play Atalanta in a two-legged semi-final.

Italiano dealing with Bologna crisis

Although Bologna are the reigning Coppa Italia holders and reached the Supercoppa Italiana Final, losing to Napoli in December, their recent Serie A form has been dismal.

Since the start of December, they scraped just one Serie A victory, three draws and eight defeats, crumbling 1-0 at home to Parma over the weekend.

“We must battle for every ball, knowing that any situation can become favourable, for example in the build-up to the Christian Ordonez goal for Parma,” said Italiano in his press conference.

“This is when we need determination and presence. I ask all the players to read the game, to have a greater sense of danger.

“We also must create more scoring opportunities, that is the key to emerging from this difficult moment. We know the path that we have to take.”

Balancing Serie A, the Coppa Italia, Europa League and Supercoppa Italiana is proving to be quite a strain on Bologna’s resources this season.

“What surprised me the most is how much energy we waste, we are struggling to recover from one match to the next. Our focus has to be on preparation and studying the opponents.”

Lazio have changed quite a bit in the January transfer window, with some players leaving and others like Kenneth Taylor and Petar Ratkov arriving.

“Lazio achieved a great result against an on form Juventus at the weekend, but Maurizio Sarri and I know each other well. We’ve got to put in an impeccable performance if we are to reach the semi-final,” concluded Italiano.

Torbjorn Heggem and Lorenzo De Silvestri are out of action.

Bologna squad for Lazio

Pessina, Ravaglia, Skorupski, Casale, Helland, Lucumì, Joao Mario, Miranda, Vitik, Zortea, Ferguson, Freuler, Moro, Pobega, Sohm, Bernardeschi, Cambiaghi, Castro, Dallinga, Dominguez, Odgaard, Orsolini, Rowe

Manchester United have been told to sign Cristian Romero from Tottenham Hotspur.

According to a report from Fichajes, Manchester United icon Paul Scholes has urged the club to sign the Argentine defender at the end of the season. The 27-year-old has been linked with a move away from Tottenham, and it will be interesting to see if Manchester United is willing to provide him with an exit route.

The defender will cost around £70-80 million. Manchester United certainly have the financial muscle to avoid him, and he could prove to be an excellent acquisition for them. It is no secret that they need a quality central defender, and the South American could be ideal. Apart from his qualities as a defender, his leadership skills could prove to be invaluable as well. He could be the ideal long-term replacement for Harry Maguire at Old Trafford.

The opportunity to join Manchester United could be tempting for the South American. He will look to fight for major trophies, and the chance to represent Manchester United will be hard to pass up.

They have shown great improvement in recent weeks, and they will look to fight for trophies in the coming seasons. The defender will certainly be attracted to the idea of taking the next step in his career and joining a bigger club. He is well settled in the Premier League, and he could make an immediate impact at Old Trafford. Even though the transfer would be a substantial investment, the player’s quality would justify the move and establish him as an indispensable asset for the club.

Manchester United need elite players like him if they want to compete regularly for major trophies.

The post Man United icon wants the club to land £70-80m-rated South American star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Saudi Arabian giants Al Ittihad have reportedly opened talks with the representative of Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah, reigniting speculation over one of football’s longest-running transfer sagas.

According to French outlet Foot Mercato, the Egyptian international is now significantly “more open” to a move to Saudi Arabia, marking a notable shift in his stance compared to previous windows.

Mohamed Salah open to Saudi Pro League move as Al Ittihad open talks

Despite signing a lucrative contract extension with Liverpool until 2027 following a stellar 2024–25 season, Salah’s position has evolved.

While the 33-year-old had previously prioritised staying in the Premier League, reports claim his agent, Ramy Abbas Issa, is now actively engaging with Al Ittihad.

The Jeddah-based club are desperate to land a global superstar to spearhead a new era and view Salah as the ultimate marquee signing capable of restoring them to the summit of the Saudi Pro League.

Liverpool could sell Salah after difficult 2025–26 season

Momentum towards a potential exit has gathered pace amid a turbulent 2025–26 campaign at Anfield.

Liverpool have struggled domestically and currently sit sixth in the Premier League, while tensions reportedly escalated when Salah publicly clashed with head coach Arne Slot after being benched for three consecutive matches.

Although Salah has since returned to the starting XI, there are growing suggestions that relations behind the scenes remain strained.

The forward previously hinted that someone at the club no longer wants him at Liverpool, sparking speculation over internal discussions about cashing in.

From Liverpool’s perspective, this summer could represent their final opportunity to secure a massive transfer fee while also removing Salah’s significant wage package.

Salah will go down as one of Liverpool’s greatest ever

Should Salah depart this summer, he would do so as an undisputed Liverpool legend.

Since joining from Roma in 2017, the “Egyptian King” has been the driving force behind the club’s modern success, registering 251 goals and 119 assists in 426 appearances across all competitions.

Mohamed Salah’s stats for Liverpool across all competitions

Salah has shattered numerous club and Premier League records, establishing himself as not only one of Liverpool’s greatest-ever players, but one of the Premier League’s all-time greats.

Last season, he single-handedly powered Liverpool to a Premier League title, scoring 29 goals and providing 18 assists in 38 league games.

Across all competitions, he finished with 34 goals and 23 assists, in what many considered should have won him the Ballon d’Or.

During his nine years at Anfield, Salah has helped Liverpool win a Champions League, two Premier League titles, two League Cups, and an FA Cup, while also becoming the club’s all-time leading Premier League goalscorer.

If this truly marks the end of Salah’s chapter on Merseyside, the farewell at Anfield would be one befitting a genuine footballing icon.

The post Mo Salah makes surprise Saudi U-turn as Al-Ittihad approach his agent – report appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United are reportedly keeping tabs on the Gambian defender Sedi Kinteh.

According to a report from The Daily Mail, Manchester United are keeping tabs on the 19-year-old, and his performance has impressed Jason Wilcox.

Kinteh has done quite well for Tromso and has attracted Chelsea’s attention as well. The 19-year-old is not just a quality defender; his recovery pace has been extremely impressive. The defender clocked a top speed of over 37 km/h this season, which makes some as fast as the Tottenham star Micky van de Ven.

Kinteh is capable of operating centrally as well as a fullback. His versatility could be a huge bonus for Manchester United or Chelsea in future. It remains to be seen if either of the two clubs decides to come forward with an offer to sign him. The opportunity to join a premier league will be exciting for the youngster. It would be a step up in his career, and he would get to test himself at the highest level.

Meanwhile, the defender could be available for a fee of €6 million. Manchester United and Chelsea certainly have the financial muscle to get the deal done, and it remains to be seen where the 19-year-old ends up. He should look to join a club where there is a prominent role for him. He needs ample first-team exposure in order to improve further and fulfil his potential. Sitting on the bench at a big club would be detrimental to his development. Therefore, he should choose his next destination very carefully. At the reported asking price, he could be a major bargain for either club.

The post Report: Man United wowed by 19-year-old speedster on Chelsea radar appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Antonio Rudiger at the end of the season, and the player is ready to return to the Premier League.

According to a report from TeamTalk, the German International will be out of contract at the end of the season, and the 33-year-old is unlikely to sign a new deal with the Spanish club. The player is currently exploring his options and has already held talks with multiple clubs in England.

The defender is reportedly open to taking a pay cut to return to the Premier League. It will be interesting to see if Spurs sign the player on a free transfer. They need more depth in the defensive unit, and the 33-year-old could be ideal.

He has played in the Premier League with Chelsea, and he should be able to settle in quickly and make an immediate impact. Apart from his quality as a defender, Spurs could use his leadership skills and winning experience as well. The 33-year-old could prove to be an excellent acquisition for them. The defender helped Chelsea win the UEFA Champions League during his time at the London club, and he will help the club win trophies as well.

Cristian Romero is expected to leave the club at the end of the season, and the German International could be a short-term replacement for him. Signing a player of his quality on a free transfer could prove to be an excellent move for Tottenham. It remains to be seen whether they can secure an agreement with the player in the coming weeks. The defender is eligible to secure a pre-contractor agreement with Tottenham now.

The post Report: Tottenham keen on Champions League winner, star ready to take a paycut to join appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arne Slot believes this has been the toughest season of his career “by a mile” as his Liverpool side prepare to take on Sunderland on Wednesday. The Reds suffered their eighth loss of the Premier League season on Sunday, when they fell to a late 2-1 defeat against Manchester City at Anfield. The reigning champions […]

The post This is the toughest season I´ve had ´by a mile´, says Slot appeared first on Soccer News.

The post This is the toughest season I´ve had ´by a mile´, says Slot appeared first on Soccer News.