Match Overview

Matchday 6 of Liga MX brings the league’s marquee rivalry back to center stage as Chivas put their perfect Clausura record on the line against Club America. Guadalajara have opened the season with five straight wins to claim sole possession of first place.

On the other hand, America counter with momentum after stringing together two consecutive victories following a shaky start. Standings rarely matter in this showdown—intensity, pride, and statement-making performances always do. With first place and bragging rights at stake, this is must-see soccer you won’t want to miss.

Pep Guardiola is always a headline in every press conference he attends. He normally backs his players no matter what, but his tone was different after Manchester City’s narrow FA Cup win over Salford City.

The FA Cup is the oldest competition in the world for a reason; there is always room for exciting matches between teams from very different levels. This time an emphatic score was expected, with a powerful Premier League side facing a League Two team.

It was only a 2-0 victory, which prompted the criticism. Guardiola said he wasn’t pleased with how they performed: “We didn’t read the spaces. It depends on how they defend it and we didn’t read it. That is the reason why the match was boring. The only good news is that we went through. That’s all.”

Guardiola says the calendar isn’t an excuse

Salford City currently play in the fourth tier of English soccer. The most dominant club in the country in recent years shouldn’t have had problems posting a big score. That looked possible when Manchester City opened the scoring in the 6th minute with an own goal.

It’s true that Guardiola named a lineup that included nine changes compared to their most recent match against Fulham in the Premier League last Wednesday. Even so, Marc Guehi’s goal to extend the margin wasn’t enough to please the manager.

Guardiola also said that the short turnaround isn’t an excuse: “It would be easy for me to say mentally we’re exhausted, we’re tired, that it has been a tough two or three weeks for many reasons. But it’s our job. The calendar demands we play every few days. We just didn’t read where the spaces were and everything was flat, slow and not good.”

Manchester City’s bright note

There was one positive from the match for the Spanish manager in the return of John Stones to the team. The defender had been out for over two months with a thigh muscle injury.

Guardiola was cautious about his inclusion in future lineups: “He’s back. He still needs time; he’s not the John Stones we knew, but his body language was really good in terms of pressing and aggression. It’s important that he played 65 minutes.”

Barcelona are coming off a tough 4-0 loss to Atletico Madrid last Thursday in the Copa del Rey. While they continue to look ahead to the second leg of that tie, they must first shift their focus to Monday’s La Liga matchup against Girona, with particular attention on the physical condition of Raphinha and Marcus Rashford.

In the defeat to Los Colchoneros, head coach Hansi Flick was unable to count on Raphinha due to a hamstring issue. The same injury had already sidelined the winger for the previous Copa del Rey match against Albacete, as well as the La Liga game against Mallorca.

However, Raphinha’s recovery is trending in a positive direction, and he is expected to return against Girona. According to Sport, he took part in Saturday’s training session with the rest of the squad and showed no setbacks, much like he did during Friday’s workout.

The Brazilian star’s return would be a major boost for Flick, who considers him a key piece of the team and has only left him out when forced to do so by injury. So far this season, Raphinha has recorded 13 goals and five assists in 22 appearances across La Liga, the Copa del Rey, the Spanish Super Cup and the UEFA Champions League.

Bad news regarding Marcus Rashford

While Raphinha’s progress is encouraging, the same cannot be said for Marcus Rashford. The England forward also missed the match against Atletico Madrid and, unlike his teammate, appears unlikely to recover in time to face Girona.

Sport reports that Rashford did not participate in Saturday’s training session, as he has not fully recovered from a knee knock suffered last weekend against Mallorca. Given the circumstances, it seems doubtful that Marcus will be able to train at full capacity on Sunday, which all but rules him out for Monday’s game.

Problems for Hansi Flick

When assembling the squad for this season, it was clear that Barcelona planned to prioritize their primary attacking trio of Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, a combination that delivered strong results last year. However, injuries have complicated those plans.

Lewandowski has dealt with physical issues that allowed Ferran Torres to take on a bigger role. Meanwhile, Raphinha has at times had to give up his spot on the left wing to Marcus Rashford for similar reasons. The England forward has delivered when called upon, tallying 10 goals and 13 assists in 34 appearances.

At the moment, though, Barcelona may be without both options on the left side, as Raphinha and Rashford are each dealing with fitness concerns. Last Thursday, Flick addressed the issue by inserting Dani Olmo into the lineup, but the move did not produce the desired results. Heading into the Girona match, it remains to be seen whether the coach sticks with that approach or looks for alternative solutions.

Cristian Chivu admits Inter’s dismal record in big games ‘weighed’ on them in a hard-fought 3-2 win over Juventus, but denied Alessandro Bastoni dived to get Pierre Kalulu sent off.

The Nerazzurri had failed to beat any of the other big clubs so far this season, but even here they were forced to wait until the 90th minute to finally break 10-man Juve down.

Andrea Cambiaso bizarrely scored at both ends for 1-1 before the controversial Pierre Kalulu red card, then Francesco Pio Esposito’s header was cancelled out by Manuel Locatelli.

It was eventually decided by a Piotr Zielinski shot that wrong-footed Michele Di Gregorio when going through Locatelli’s legs for the 3-2 result.

Chivu balances criticism and praise of Inter

“We wanted to focus on the performance more than the result this season, but as you’ve been reminding me constantly, Inter had not beaten a big club in Serie A for two years, so the lads felt that pressure,” Chivu told Sky Sport Italia.

“With heart and character, we did what we needed to in order to bring home the victory. I will take the determination and the desire to always damage a team that has been causing problems for every opponent since Luciano Spalletti arrived. They are an impressive team, both collectively and individually.”

Juventus were so angry over the “unacceptable and embarrassing” refereeing with regards to that Kalulu red card that Spalletti refused to speak to the media, instead sending directors Giorgio Chiellini and Damien Comolli.

Chivu famously tries to avoid discussing the refereeing in any situation, but this was a very difficult incident to ignore.

“I think it is a light touch, but it’s still a touch. When I dealt with similar situations in the Champions League, I told my players not to put themselves in a situation where they force the referee to make the call,” noted the coach.

He was of course referring to the incredibly soft and decisive penalty awarded to Liverpool in their victory over Inter.

“Even if it’s light, and we have to admit it is a light touch, my player still felt the touch and was running at full speed. Kalulu is an experienced player and he ought to know that in these situations, you keep your hands to yourself.”

Chivu evidently knew that Bastoni was at risk, because the defender was already on a yellow card and arguably was just as likely to get sent off for simulation in that move as Kalulu was for the challenge, so he substituted the Italian at half-time.

“I changed Bastoni because I was afraid of Conceicao, but seeing as Conceicao then was substituted, I would’ve left him on,” insisted the Inter boss.

The Romanian was a defender, so how would he have honestly reacted if that red card had been given against him on the field?

“If I am on a yellow card, I don’t put my hands on an opponent, especially on a counter-attack when I am anticipated by the opponent,” insisted Chivu.

Inter were at the top of the Serie A table despite not managing to win a single head-to-head battle, and the coach fully admits this statistic affected them psychologically.

“I hope that tonight’s game is the turning point for the mental and even physical block that this team has. I didn’t like the performance, we didn’t have the legs or sharpness to do what we had prepared or play our football.

“At the end of the day, I will take the victory, and was trying to tell them that they won in Dortmund. You sensed tonight the anxiety of a side that hadn’t been able to win a big game for two years, it was weighing on them,” confessed Chivu.

“We must also give credit to Juventus, who caused us problems with their movement, their quality, and the style of football proposed by Spalletti. They are in good shape, and even down to 10 men managed to equalise. When we were 2-1 up, we should’ve controlled the situation better, the fear set in, but I am glad we pushed to the end for the victory and won it with a great Zielinski goal.”

Juventus directors Giorgio Chiellini and Damien Comolli protested the ‘totally unacceptable’ and ‘embarrassing’ refereeing in their 3-2 defeat to Inter, asking Gianluca Rocchi to resign.

It was a chaotic Derby d’Italia and a controversial one too, with Andrea Cambiaso scoring at both ends, then Manuel Locatelli replying to the Francesco Pio Esposito header.

Even when down to 10 men, Juve kept fighting back for 2-2 and eventually capitulated at the 90^th minute when Piotr Zielinski’s strike went through Locatelli’s legs to wrong-foot an uncertain Michele Di Gregorio.

That Pierre Kalulu red card just before half-time changed the game, as the second yellow was awarded for no contact with Alessandro Bastoni.

Juventus take unprecedented stand against refereeing

Luciano Spalletti therefore did not speak to the media, as Juventus sent directors Chiellini and Comolli instead.

“We cannot talk about football after what happened today,” Chiellini told Sky Sport Italia.

“Something completely unacceptable happened today, it doesn’t matter whether it happens to us or someone else, and from tomorrow presumably VAR will have to change, because this is not acceptable that so many errors keep happening even in big games like this.

“We’ve been trying to say since the start of the season that the level of refereeing is not up to the task, and this unfortunately is the spectacle we showed to the rest of the world today. It happened to many teams this season, we have to change, we cannot keep procrastinating the way we always do in Italian football.”

Kalulu made the ‘VAR’ gesture with his hands, but they could not intervene, as the protocol bans them from getting involved with yellow card situations.

This too is something that might be changed when IFAB re-evaluates the rules going forward, along with giving coaches the option of requesting a certain number of VAR appeals.

“It has been since the start of the season that many clubs have been complaining the infrastructure is just not at the level of Serie A. I don’t know if they’re not trained properly, not up to the task, whatever the reason for it, the fact is the referees are not up to the standard of Serie A football.”

So are Juventus calling for refereeing designator Gianluca Rocchi to stand down?

“If you want to make it clear, it is obvious that the group of referees are not working, so if Rocchi keeps saying he’ll go, then we’ll see now if he does go,” added Chiellini.

“Last week De Rossi complained, before that Gasperini and Conte, so we are not the first and not the last. Something clearly isn’t working and one of the first things we can do is change the protocol.

“Look, it’s disappointing, the referees are just like players and coaches, but it is obvious La Penna was not up to this game.”

Spalletti had already complained about refereeing in Serie A and the Coppa Italia last week, so his mood certainly would not have been improved by La Penna’s performance this evening.

“Obviously, as a club we feel today is an embarrassing,” Comolli told Sky Sport Italia.

“It’s embarrassing what happened today, and we feel strongly as a club from the ownership, to the fans, to the players, to the coach, it cannot happen again. It’s been happening again and again, again and again, tonight was the summary of what we’ve seen this season.

“For a game like this, with the whole world watching, it’s just embarrassing.”

La rabbia di #Comolli, #Chiellini e #Spalletti urlata in faccia a #LaPenna alla fine del primo tempo di #InterJuventus (video @fedel.96 via TikTok) pic.twitter.com/NOnv5e3xQn

— Giovanni Capuano (@capuanogio) February 14, 2026

There was footage of Chiellini, Comolli and other Juventus figures screaming angrily at referee La Penna in the tunnel going into half-time, so did they speak to him afterwards?

“No, we have not spoken to La Penna after the game,” confirmed Comolli.

“It is very difficult to accept injustice like this, very difficult. We have to say something. We spoke to Luciano, Francois and Giorgio. I didn’t speak to the players, I just told them well done, they fought very well, but I don’t think we can talk about football tonight.

“The coach is extremely frustrated and disappointed, it’s totally unacceptable.”

Join Football Italia editor Lorenzo Bettoni live from San Siro and our writer Giancarlo Rinaldi as they examine Inter’s 3-2 win over Juventus.

It was another amazing Derby d’Italia as, after Juventus’ 4-3 win in September, Inter took home all three points in the reverse fixture at San Siro tonight with a thrilling 3-2 win.

It was intense and controversial as you’d expect in every Derby d’Italia, and Football Italia brought to you the live action straight from San Siro.

Now, it’s time to examine the match, from Pierre Kalulu’s debatable red card to Piotr Zielinski’s late winner. Follow the live show below, starting at 23:20 CET.

Piotr Zielinski and Francesco Pio Esposito are relishing Inter’s 3-2 victory over 10-man Juventus. ‘Nights like this are what you dream of when you start playing football.’

It was another dramatic Derby d’Italia at San Siro, in the same vein as the 4-4 draw from last season and Juve’s 4-3 victory back in September.

Andrea Cambiaso bizarrely scored at both ends before the controversial Pierre Kalulu red card, then Manuel Locatelli replied to Esposito’s header, but Zielinski won it at the death drilling through Locatelli’s legs to wrong-foot Michele Di Gregorio.

Esposito and Zielinski get the Inter party started

“It is very important, but the whole team played well and deserved this, so we will enjoy the victory, it’s a big deal,” Zielinski told Sky Sport Italia.

“We’ve got to avoid situations like the equaliser, as we had taken the lead with a great Pio goal and then showed a lack of concentration, but the important thing is that we won it.”

Inter had famously failed to beat any of the other big clubs so far this season, but this was an important turning point in their campaign, especially as it sees them break away at the top of the table.

“All teams have to face all other teams in the league. Juve are a great team, but even when we didn’t bring home the three points, we still put in strong performances.”

Check the Football Italia Player Ratings for Inter 3-2 Juventus

Esposito is a lifelong Inter supporter and his season just keeps going from strength to strength, finding the net in every competition.

“Nights like this are what you dream of when you start playing football as a child,” 20-year-old Esposito told Sky Sport Italia.

“The maximum I could ask for tonight was a victory and a goal, and I got them.”

Inter continue to surge away at the top of the Serie A table, awaiting Milan’s rescheduled clash with Como on Wednesday.

“We can’t talk about reaching the finish line yet, as there is a long way to go, but this is certainly a very important result for us.”

Inter: Sommer 6; Bisseck 6.5, Akanji 5.5, Bastoni 6 (46′ Carlos Augusto 5.5); Luis Henrique 6 (66′ Pio Esposito 7), Barella 5.5 (54′ Calhanoglu 6), Zielinski 7.5, Sucic 6 (66′ Diouf 6), Dimarco 7.5; Lautaro Martinez 6, M Thuram 5.5 (85′ Bonny N/A). Coach: Chivu 7.

Best Inter player: Dimarco and Zielinski 7.5 – Zielinski scored a late winner after another fantastic performance: 96% passing accuracy. Another assist for Dimarco, his 13th in Serie A this season. Outstanding to say the least. A constant threat down the left flank. The number of accurate passes in the opposition half was particularly impressive, 47 out of 52, 90%, as per Sofascore.

Lowest Inter rating: Akanji 5.5 – Often out of position and only won one aerial duel from 7. Pretty solid with the ball at his feet, but should have done much more defensively.

Inter coach: Chivu 7 – Inter had not won any of the previous 14 meetings against Juve, Napoli or Milan in Serie A. The Nerazzurri boss was brave to introduce Pio Esposito in the second half, keeping Lautaro and Thuram on the pitch. It wasn’t a given despite the numerical advantage.

Juventus: Di Gregorio 6; Kalulu 5.5, Bremer 7, Kelly 6.5, Cambiaso 6 (77′ Openda N/A); McKennie 7.5, Locatelli 7, Miretti 5.5 (61′ Koopmeiners 6); Conceicao 5 (46′ Holm 5.5), David 5 (61′ Cabal 5.5), Yildiz 6 (75′ Boga 5.5). Coach: Spalletti 6.

Best Juventus player: McKennie 7.5 – Two assists in a tricky night for the Old Lady. McKennie played as a right winger, central midfielder, attacking midfielder and even striker. Once again, an ideal player for Spalletti, who once again played a key role tonight.

Lowest Juventus ratings: Conceiçao and David 5 – They didn’t create much, even before the red card for Kalulu. David even lost possession in the build-up to Inter’s first goal with a misplaced header.

Juventus coach Spalletti 6 – Could Juventus do much more? Probably not. They did what they could, down to ten men for over 45 minutes. They even reacted to Pio Esposito’s goal, scoring a late goal with Locatelli, but it wasn’t enough. Juventus still have many issues, but at least they have an identity now.

Juventus kept coming back even after a controversial Pierre Kalulu red card, but Inter snatched the dramatic 3-2 win with Francesco Pio Esposito and Piotr Zielinski.

The Derby d’Italia had seen some chaotic recent clashes, including a 4-4 draw last season and a 4-3 Juve victory back in September. Both Thuram brothers were on target in that game, but Khephren was out injured here with Dusan Vlahovic and Arek Milik, so the midfield was reshuffled for a new 4-3-3 formation. Nicolò Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu returned to the squad, leaving only Denzel Dumfries on the treatment table, but the Turkish veteran started from the bench.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

The hosts took the lead in bizarre circumstances, as Luis Henrique was trying to roll across for the return pass to Marcus Thuram, but it took a deflection off Andrea Cambiaso and surprised Michele Di Gregorio, who clumsily tried and failed to kick it away at the near bottom corner with his trailing foot.

Juve threatened moments later, Weston McKennie’s header straight at Yann Sommer on a Pierre Kalulu cross, while Francisco Conceicao curled over from a tricky angle.

Cambiaso made up for the howler by scoring the equaliser in the right net this time, as Jonathan David failed to connect with a McKennie cross, so it kept going to find the full-back to tap in at the far post.

Nine minutes after scoring an own goal, Andrea Cambiaso equalises for Juventus against Inter!

@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/714MVTyn93

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 14, 2026

Sommer flew to palm away the Kenan Yildiz right-foot curler, then Gleison Bremer had to clear practically off the line from Piotr Zielinski on Thuram’s back-heel flick.

There was chaos on the stroke of half-time and the game changed completely. Di Gregorio flew to parry a Thuram header on a corner, then Alessandro Bastoni tried to prod in the rebound, somehow managing to hit both uprights with the same effort.

Juve then tried to play their way out and Bastoni went down under a Kalulu challenge, with the referee showing a second yellow card. VAR cannot intervene on bookings, so the understandably frustrated Juventus defender couldn’t call on them to confirm there was no contact with Bastoni.

A controversial moment in the Serie A title race as Pierre Kalulu is sent off for Juventus for not a great deal

Inter Milan's players were celebrating the decision

@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/Hoy3g0IWPp

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 14, 2026

Despite being down to 10 men, Juventus still had a triple chance after the restart, as Sommer parried the Cambiaso strike, then the Kenan Yildiz rebound, and finally smothered a Miretti effort.

Calhanoglu made his first appearance since January 11 and immediately forced a flying save out of Di Gregorio with his rocket from the edge of the box.

McKennie had timid appeals rejected for a Carlos Augusto challenge, while Thuram cut inside from the left for a right-foot scorcher that skimmed the crossbar.

Inter finally broke down the 10 men with Dimarco’s 14^th assist of the season, whipping in a cross from the left for substitute Pio Esposito, who peeled away from Manuel Locatelli for a looping header into the far top corner.

Dimarco could’ve scored another on the Andy Diouf counter-attack, but couldn’t keep his finish down, as the Bianconeri were unbalanced seeking an equaliser.

Locatelli made up for the earlier error to draw Juve level with a first-time sweeping finish from just inside the area on the McKennie roll across from the right.

Incredible celebrations from 10-man Juventus as Manuel Locatelli equalises against Inter

@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/s5A4V3Xgpu

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 14, 2026

It remained wide open, Di Gregorio getting across to push a Yann Bisseck towering header off the line, then Zielinski restored Inter’s lead with a strike through Locatelli’s legs from the D to wrong-foot the goalkeeper again.

Inter score in the 90th minute and take a 3-2 win over Juventus

@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/4rUeIFscVN

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 14, 2026

Teun Koopmeiners had his header plucked out of the air, then sprinted back to make practically a goal-line clearance after Ange-Yoan Bonny’s dummy sent McKennie to ground.

Inter 3-2 Juventus

Cambiaso og 17 (I), Cambiaso 26 (J), Esposito 76 (I), Locatelli 83 (J), Zielinski 90 (I)

Sent off: Kalulu 42 (J)

14-02-2026 19:45

MatchDay 25

San Siro Stadium (Stadio Giuseppe Meazza)

Inter

Juventus

3 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

Alessandro Bastoni		9'
Andrea Cambiaso		17'
		26'		Andrea Cambiaso (Assist: Weston McKennie)
		32'		Pierre Kalulu
		42'		Pierre Kalulu

2nd half

Nicolò Barella		53'
Pio Esposito (Assist: Federico Dimarco)		76'
Hakan Calhanoglu		79'
		83'		Manuel Locatelli (Assist: Weston McKennie)
Piotr Zielinski (Assist: Yann Bisseck)		90'
Piotr Zielinski		90+1'

Match statistic

60

Possession %

40

21

Total shots

11

9

Shots on target

8

7

Shots off target

2

5

Blocked shots

1

4

Corners

1

1

Offsides

1

15

Fouls

7

Inter

Juventus

Starting lineups

1

Yann Sommer

Goalkeeper

95

Alessandro Bastoni

Defender

46'

32

Federico Dimarco

Defender

25

Manuel Akanji

Defender

8

Petar Sucic

Defender

67'

31

Yann Bisseck

Defender

23

Nicolò Barella

Midfielder

54'

7

Piotr Zielinski

Midfielder

10

Lautaro Martínez

Attacker

11

Luis Henrique

Attacker

66'

9

Marcus Thuram

Attacker

86'

16

Michele Di Gregorio

Goalkeeper

27

Andrea Cambiaso

Defender

78'

3

Bremer

Defender

6

Lloyd Kelly

Defender

15

Pierre Kalulu

Defender

21

Fabio Miretti

Midfielder

61'

5

Manuel Locatelli

Midfielder

22

Weston McKennie

Midfielder

7

Francisco Conceição

Attacker

46'

30

Jonathan David

Attacker

61'

10

Kenan Yıldız

Attacker

75'

Substitutes

22

Henrikh Mkhitaryan

Midfielder

15

Francesco Acerbi

Defender

16

Davide Frattesi

Midfielder

36

Matteo Darmian

Defender

6

Stefan de Vrij

Defender

13

Josep Martínez

Goalkeeper

12

Raffaele Di Gennaro

Goalkeeper

43

Matteo Cocchi

Defender

30

Carlos Augusto

Midfielder

46'

20

Hakan Calhanoglu

Midfielder

54'

94

Pio Esposito

Attacker

66'

17

Andy Diouf

Attacker

67'

14

Ange-Yoan Bonny

Defender

86'

23

Carlo Pinsoglio

Goalkeeper

1

Mattia Perin

Goalkeeper

4

Federico Gatti

Defender

18

Filip Kostic

Midfielder

11

Edon Zhegrova

Attacker

17

Vasilije Adžić

Midfielder

2

Emil Holm

Defender

46'

8

Teun Koopmeiners

Midfielder

61'

32

Juan Cabal

Defender

61'

13

Jeremie Boga

Attacker

75'

20

Loïs Openda

Attacker

78'

Harry Kane today scored his 500th career goal in Bayern Munich’s 3-0 win over Werder Bremen, and he managed to hit that landmark in fewer games than Cristiano Ronaldo.

The 32-year-old has undoubtedly been one of the greatest strikers of his generation, producing the goods over and over again for Bayern, as well as for his former club Tottenham, and for the England national team.

Read on for some stats and facts about Kane’s 500 goals after this memorable moment in his tremendous career at the highest level.

Harry Kane managed to reach 500 goals in 743 games

If you’re interested, that’s ten games fewer than it took Ronaldo, though of course he won’t be too worried about that as he now closes in on a frankly ridiculous 1000 career goals.

Lionel Messi managed it quicker, though, with the Barcelona and Argentina legend only needing 632 games to hit 500 goals.

Apart from Messi and Ronaldo, the only other footballers who are still active with over 500 goals are Robert Lewandowski (690), Luis Suarez (600), and Karim Benzema (517).

100 of Harry Kane’s goals were penalties

Kane is certainly Mr Reliable from the spot, so it’s perhaps not too surprising that one of his goals today was also a penalty.

Harry Kane is all-time top scorer for both Tottenham and England

Kane has the privilege of being the all-time leading scorer for one of his clubs, as well as for his national team.

The prolific front-man notably overtook the legendary Jimmy Greaves towards the end of his Spurs career, finishing on 280 goals for the north London club in total.

Kane also overtook Wayne Rooney as England’s record goal-scorer not that long after the former Manchester United and Everton man himself overtook the legendary Bobby Charlton, whose record looked safe for a very long time.

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Kane is now so far ahead, however, that it’s probably going to be a very long time before we see someone else move ahead of him, as he still has a few years left in him to add to his total of 78 England goals…

Kane probably won’t ever be in the running to be Bayern’s top goal-scorer, but, arguably still quite impressive, he’s already only seven goals away from breaking into their top ten, which is not bad considering it’s only just over halfway through his third season at the club.

The post Harry Kane reaches 500 career goals and betters Cristiano Ronaldo stat in the process appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Cristiano Ronaldo has built a career on rewriting history, but now another chapter of that legacy is quietly beginning to take shape. His eldest son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., is stepping onto the international stage with the Portugal U-16 national team, carrying a surname that guarantees global attention long before he becomes a senior professional.

At just 15 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. represents the Al-Nassr youth academy and has already experienced elite development environments across Europe and the Middle East. With Portugal’s youth setup calling him up for the 2026 Algarve Tournament, the soccer world turned its attention to a familiar name in a new generation. The intrigue peaked when he was handed his first-ever start for Portugal U-16 against the Netherlands, sparking debate and curiosity: how did he handle the pressure on his first major international stage?

Portugal’s U-16 squad called the teenager for the Algarve Tournament between February 12 and February 17, facing Japan, the Netherlands, and Germany. The tournament marks his first youth international competition on Portuguese soil, increasing the emotional significance of the moment.

In the opening match against Japan, the Selecao won 3-0, and Ronaldo Jr. came off the bench due to an injury to Rafael Cabral. He made an immediate impression, forcing a goalkeeper save and bagging an assist. Observers noted his composure and tactical awareness, a contrast to his father’s explosive youth style, suggesting a more measured and team-oriented profile.

Watch how Ronaldo Jr. played vs. the Netherlands

The major milestone arrived when Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. earned his first-ever start for Portugal U-16 against the Netherlands, playing 45 minutes on the left wing. His performance, closely monitored by scouts and analysts, revealed a promising but still developing young winger.

During the lone half that he featured in, he maintained width on the left flank, stretching the Dutch defense and making diagonal runs inside. He showed awareness of space rather than simply hugging the touchline, suggesting a developing tactical understanding.

What’s more, his first touch looked composed, and he attempted to take defenders on with body feints rather than relying solely on pace. Ronaldo Jr. carried the ball inside and released passes into the attacking third, participating in buildup rather than forcing individual moments.

The 15-year-old winger also displayed smooth movement and moderate acceleration, comfortable receiving under pressure, but still developing explosiveness and physical strength typical for his age.

Lionel Messi’s fitness has become one of the most closely monitored storylines ahead of the 2026 MLS season, as the global icon races against time to recover from a worrying pre-season injury. With Inter Miami preparing for a high-stakes opener and a packed campaign across multiple competitions, every training session and medical update is being scrutinized.

The Argentine star’s influence on the club remains unparalleled, and even a short absence could reshape the early trajectory of the season. As questions swirl about his availability for the season opener, a clearer picture is beginning to emerge behind the scenes. Inter Miami’s preparations for the new campaign were disrupted when Lionel Messi picked up a hamstring injury during a friendly against Barcelona SC in Ecuador.

The issue forced the club to postpone a scheduled pre-season friendly against Independiente del Valle, originally planned for February 14. In an official statement, the club explained: “We know how much our fans look forward to every match involving our team. We hope to see you all very soon.” The match has since been rescheduled for February 26, a move designed to allow the Argentine forward time to recover while still delivering a major event for fans.

Medical examinations confirmed that Messi suffered a muscle strain in his left hamstring, raising immediate concerns just weeks before the MLS season opener. The club emphasized that his recovery will be closely monitored and handled cautiously. The Herons stated: “Messi did not participate in training this Wednesday, Feb. 11 due to a muscle strain in his left hamstring sustained during the match against Barcelona SC in Ecuador, which has persisted since then.”

Inter Miami faces a demanding calendar in 2026, competing in MLS, the Leagues Cup, and the Concacaf Champions Cup. The opening of Miami Freedom Park in April also adds symbolic importance, as the new stadium represents a new era for the club and a showcase for its global superstar, who is under contract until 2028. Last season, the 38-year-old recorded 48 goal contributions, including 29 goals and 19 assists, ranking among the most productive campaigns in MLS history. His presence remains the cornerstone of Inter Miami’s sporting and commercial identity.

The likely return date revealed

The chatter coming from the club’s hallways indicates that Messi’s left hamstring injury would take at least two weeks to heal, ESPN Argentina claims. While the club initially avoided setting a timeline, reports now suggest a clearer window for the Argentine’s comeback. The report adds that the expectation is that Lionel Messi could return for the rescheduled friendly on February 26.

Thus, there is cautious optimism that he could be fit for the MLS opener against LAFC on February 21 if his recovery progresses smoothly. This timing places the Argentine star in a race against the calendar, with the club weighing whether to risk him in the opening match or prioritize his fitness for the long season ahead.

Will he feature against LAFC?

Miami’s season opener against LAFC represents one of the biggest fixtures of the opening weekend, featuring two title contenders and star-studded squads. The possibility of Messi missing that match would be a significant blow, but the coaching staff remains focused on the bigger picture.

Manager Javier Mascherano and the medical team are expected to take a conservative approach, understanding that having Messi available for most of the season is more important than rushing him back for a single game. Past injuries have shown that premature returns can lead to setbacks, something the club is eager to avoid.

Harry Kane reached the remarkable milestone of 500 career goals, placing him in an exclusive group of players to achieve that mark. The England forward did it in fewer matches than Cristiano Ronaldo, though he still cannot match the pace set by Lionel Messi.

On Saturday, Bayern Munich secured a convincing 3-0 road win over Werder Bremen, strengthening their position at the top of the Bundesliga standings with a six-point lead over Borussia Dortmund. Kane played a decisive role, scoring the team’s first two goals in the opening half.

With that performance, Harry Kane became the 27th player in soccer history to reach 500 career goals, according to the IFFHS. What makes the achievement stand out is the speed at which he got there: just 743 matches, an average of 0.67 goals per game.

Not even Cristiano Ronaldo reached the milestone that quickly. Although he is currently the all-time leading scorer in soccer history, the Portuguese forward needed more matches to score his first 500 goals. He reached that mark in September 2015 while playing for Real Madrid, doing so in 753 games.

Of course, Ronaldo maintained his scoring pace afterward, and over the past 10 years he has nearly doubled that tally. CR7 now has 962 career goals and is closing in on a feat no player has ever achieved: 1,000 official goals.

How long did it take Messi to score 500 official goals?

When discussing the greatest scorers in soccer history, it is impossible not to mention Lionel Messi. He has gone head-to-head with Cristiano Ronaldo throughout his career and continues to do so, as he currently ranks second on the all-time scoring list and remains the other active player with a realistic chance of reaching 1,000 goals.

Messi’s greatness is also reflected in how quickly he has reached those milestones. He is the fastest player ever to score 500 official goals, achieving the feat with Barcelona in April 2016 after just 632 matches. In other words, Messi needed 111 fewer games than Kane to hit the same number.

Where has Harry Kane scored most of his goals?

The vast majority of Harry Kane’s 500 career goals have come at the club level. Most of them were scored with Tottenham Hotspur, where he spent the bulk of his career, netting 280 goals between 2011 and 2023. Early in his career in England, he also had brief spells with clubs such as Leyton Orient, Millwall, Norwich City and Leicester City, totaling 16 goals combined.

However, Kane’s most efficient stretch has come in Germany. Since joining Bayern Munich in the summer of 2023, he has scored 126 goals in 131 matches, averaging nearly one goal per game.

All told, Kane has scored 422 goals at the club level. The remaining goals that bring him to 500 have come with the England national team. He is The Three Lions’ all-time leading scorer, with 78 goals in 122 appearances between 2015 and 2025.

Most players want to play for Real Madrid at some point in their careers. It’s common to see huge names willing to change clubs even if they are at great institutions, just like Trent Alexander-Arnold or Kylian Mbappé. Apparently, there’s now another Liverpool star who could be thinking about the idea.

The protagonist of the story is Dominik Szoboszlai. What makes it more noteworthy is that it isn’t a traditional transfer rumor that always flies around. It was Marco Rossi, the Hungarian national team manager, who told this story in an interview with WinWin, as cited by Diario AS.

Rossi was clear about the bond he has with Szoboszlai and spoke about his true feelings regarding the Spanish club: “For the close and direct relationship I have with him since he started playing football as a kid, Real Madrid has always been his dream.”

Rossi on the likelihood of the transfer

Liverpool have had an inconsistent season so far. Their strong Champions League group-stage performance, which put them directly into the round of 16, helped offset some poor domestic results, but sitting sixth in the Premier League is concerning.

In the context of doubts over Arne Slot remaining in England, Szoboszlai has arguably been the brightest player in the team. That’s why Rossi believes a transfer to the Madrid club does not look very likely.

Rossi also said: “I don’t know if he can take that step. It’s his decision and his club’s too. I don’t absolutely rule out the possibility of him staying at Liverpool and renewing his contract there, especially because he’s highly valued by the club. He’s very important to them. It’s one of the biggest clubs in the world.”

Szoboszlai’s season with Liverpool

Szoboszlai will be unavailable for Liverpool in the Premier League for the next three matches after the incident that ended in the defeat to Manchester City. A foul on Erling Haaland with no goalkeeper in front led to a red card and his suspension.

The unfair part is that minutes earlier he had scored a phenomenal free kick to put his team ahead. It was a goal reminiscent of another important strike against Arsenal. His season totals 35 appearances with nine goals.

Refereeing experts Luca Marelli and Graziano Cesari both agree Pierre Kalulu’s red card was ‘a very serious error’ in Inter vs. Juventus, and Alessandro Bastoni could’ve been sent off instead, but VAR could not intervene.

Follow all the action as it happens on the Liveblog.

The incident transformed the Derby d’Italia at San Siro this evening, as just before half-time Kalulu was already on a yellow card when he cut across Alessandro Bastoni.

Referee Federico La Penna immediately pulled out the second yellow card and sent the Juventus defender off.

A controversial moment in the Serie A title race as Pierre Kalulu is sent off for Juventus for not a great deal

Inter Milan's players were celebrating the decision

@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/Hoy3g0IWPp

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 14, 2026

Kalulu was incredulous and made the ‘VAR’ gesture with his hands, but the protocol forbids technology being used in a yellow card situation.

Inter vs. Juventus controversy will drag on

Analysing the footage on television, Italy’s refereeing pundits were in agreement that La Penna was taken in by the Bastoni simulation.

“It is a very serious error from La Penna, but there’s nothing that can be done because VAR can’t intervene on second yellow cards,” said DAZN official Marelli.

“There was no contact between Kalulu and Bastoni.”

Juventus are down to ten men as Pierre Kalulu is sent off after picking up his second yellow card pic.twitter.com/LYzerA9uRV

— CBS Sports Golazo (@CBSSportsGolazo) February 14, 2026

On Sport Mediaset’s coverage, refereeing expert and former official Cesari was even more harsh on La Penna.

“It is a huge mistake. The second yellow card is non-existent. There is no contact between Bastoni and Kalulu, there is clear distance between the players.

“La Penna should have a clear view, but he gets it all wrong. It’s a total howler. In fact, the referee’s error also saves Bastoni from a second yellow card for simulation.”

Cristian Chivu seemed to realise this was a possibility and substituted the Italy international at half-time.

Bastoni’s unsporting behaviour went beyond the yellow card, as he was visibly celebrating behind the distraught Kalulu.

Italy international Sandro Tonali inspired Newcastle’s victory over Aston Villa in the FA Cup with his first two goals this season: ‘Yesterday I was telling him, ‘you never score goals,” said his teammate Nick Woltemade.

Italy star Tonali scored a brace in Newcastle’s 3-1 win over Aston Villa on Saturday, inspiring the Magpies’ qualification for the FA Cup fifth round.

As reported by Squawka on X social media, Tonali has now scored three of his nine Newcastle goals against Aston Villa.

“Yesterday I was telling him, ‘you never score goals’, and today he scored two,” Newcastle striker Woltemade, who scored the other goal for the Magpies, said at full-time.

“We are both happy, of course.”

Tonali went on to praise his teammate, too.

“He plays as a midfielder, like an experienced midfielder. He plays very well,” the Italian said.

As reported by Opta, Tonali is the first Newcastle player to score two goals from outside the box in a single game since Mohamed Diamé vs Preston in the League Cup back in October 2016.

“I was saying to Sandro ‘you never score goals’, and today he scored two!”

Nick Woltemade and Sandro Tonali are full of compliments for each other after Newcastle’s 3-1 victory over Aston Villa

@Becky_Ives_ | @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/GpOwdCSUie

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 14, 2026

Sublime from Sandro Tonali

Two quick goals from the midfielder surge @NUFC into the lead.

Watch live on @BBCMOTD, @footballontnt and @discoveryplusUK #EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/jPVP1h2m49

— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) February 14, 2026

What a hit from Sandro Tonali!

His second strike completes Newcastle’s comeback from a goal down to taking the lead against Aston Villa pic.twitter.com/cP0sROWt87

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) February 14, 2026

Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu received two yellow cards in the first half of an away game at Inter, and VAR could not intervene when he was given his marching orders.

Juventus visit Inter at San Siro on Saturday, but will have to play the second half down to ten men following a red card shown to Pierre Kalulu in the opening 45 minutes.

Why Kalulu was sent off in Inter vs. Juventus

The French defender was given a second yellow card late in the first half, but replays indicated he made no contact with Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni, who seemed to go down too easily in an attempt to draw the booking.

Kalulu and Juventus players vehemently protested and the Bianconeri defender even asked to review the incident on the pitchside monitor, but VAR could not intervene, given that technology can only be used in case of a straight red card and not when a second yellow card leads to a sending off.

The first half ended in a 1-1 draw with Juventus’ defender Andrea Cambiaso scoring a goal and an own goal.

Football Italia is among the accredited media at San Siro. You can follow live updates on the liveblog.

Il secondo giallo per #Kalulu è inesistente: il francese sfiora a malapena il braccio di #Bastoni, che crolla a terra, mentre le gambe restano ben distanti
Incredibile come non possa intervenire da regolamento il Var#InterJuventus #Inter #Juve pic.twitter.com/8EY5FfQieM

— calciomercato.it (@calciomercatoit) February 14, 2026

Juventus are down to ten men as Pierre Kalulu is sent off after picking up his second yellow card pic.twitter.com/LYzerA9uRV

— CBS Sports Golazo (@CBSSportsGolazo) February 14, 2026

Watch as Andrea Cambiaso makes Derby d’Italia history by scoring in both nets, as after a Michele Di Gregorio howler, he allowed Juventus to equalise against Inter.

You can follow all the action as it happens on the Liveblog.

The full-back certainly had a complicated start to the big match at San Siro this evening, with the Bianconeri trying out a 4-3-3 formation.

Cambiaso with dubious record in Inter vs. Juventus

Cambiaso was in the wrong place at the wrong time when accidentally deflecting the Luis Henrique roll across from the right for Marcus Thuram, but still assumed Michele Di Gregorio would be able to kick it out of the near bottom corner.

An Andrea Cambiaso own goal gives Inter the lead in the Derby d'Italia pic.twitter.com/seW5y25E6s

— CBS Sports Golazo (@CBSSportsGolazo) February 14, 2026

Unfortunately for him, the Juve goalkeeper decided to go with his trailing foot instead, and made a hash of it.

Just nine minutes later, Cambiaso managed to turn into the correct net at the other end, as Jonathan David failed to connect with a Weston McKennie cross, letting it come through for the full-back at the far post.

Nine minutes after scoring an own goal, Andrea Cambiaso equalises for Juventus against Inter!

@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/714MVTyn93

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 14, 2026

Before this, no player had ever managed to score at both ends in an edition of the Derby d’Italia, so he has his somewhat unfortunate place in the history books.

Andrea Cambiaso has a goal at both ends of the pitch as he equalizes for Juventus pic.twitter.com/7JKdDOyZAf

— CBS Sports Golazo (@CBSSportsGolazo) February 14, 2026

Raffaele Palladino confirms the Giacomo Raspadori injury issue against Lazio and wants Atalanta to ‘keep our foot on the gas,’ but admits to a future Premier League ambition too.

They emerged from the Stadio Olimpico with a 2-0 victory thanks to the Ederson penalty for a Danilo Cataldi handling offence, and Nicola Zalewski’s wonderful curler into the far bottom corner.

The woodwork came to their rescue twice on Kenneth Taylor and Petar Ratkov in the Eternal City.

Palladino has revitalised Atalanta

La Dea are on a roll with 29 points in 14 rounds since he took over from sacked Ivan Juric, so does a whole new season begin this evening?

“Not tonight, it started three months ago,” assured Palladino in his press conference.

“I always said our objective was to climb the table and we will keep doing that. We’ve achieved some important results, those performances helped us to develop the right mentality and self-belief.

“We faced a Lazio side in good shape today, but we were clinical in an overall balanced encounter. Lazio did better in the first 20 minutes, then we improved and did well to pick up all three points.”

Raspadori was a second half substitute, but he limped off with five minutes to go and all the substitutions completed, leaving Atalanta down to 10 men.

“Raspadori hadn’t been playing regularly in Spain, so he needs consistency on the field and we are trying to give that to him,” noted Palladino.

“He is an important player for us, a young Italian, and a proven winner. He settled in very quickly, today unfortunately he sustained a slight muscular issue and we hope it is nothing serious.”

This result saw Atalanta surge past Como, who have a game in hand, into sixth place, so is their target Europe or a top four finish?

“We mustn’t look at the Champions League zone or anything else, we just have to focus on ourselves. The objective was to climb back up, to have this hunger and mentality, but we must never lose our humility either,” warned Palladino.

“There were many difficulties when I arrived, but we are now in three different competitions, in about 80 hours or so we’ll play in the Champions League, then again Serie A and the Coppa Italia. We’ve got to keep our foot on the gas.”

Curiously, Atalanta will face Lazio again in the Coppa Italia semi-final, with the first leg scheduled for March 4.

“I don’t know what kind of game that will be, but certainly a difficult one against a strong opponent. I was impressed by Lazio today, they have pace in attack and are well-drilled. The Coppa Italia is a very important objective for us.”

Former Juventus coach Igor Tudor has just been hired by Tottenham Hotspur, so does Palladino have ambitions of working in the Premier League too?

“For anyone in our line of work, it is an intriguing style of football. I would like to go there in future and I have been studying the English language lately,” confessed the coach.

“Right now, the objective is to concentrate on Atalanta.”

Dominik Szoboszlai has scored to make it 2-0 to Liverpool against Brighton, but Mohamed Salah deserves huge credit for a lovely touch to set it up.

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The Reds now look in a strong position to get past the Seagulls and into the fifth round of the FA Cup, with this well-worked Szoboszlai goal following on from Curtis Jones’ opener in the first half.

Watch below for this absolutely delightful move by Liverpool, with Salah playing a perfect first-time pass into the path of Szoboszlai, exploiting the space and just slicing Brighton open with ease…

A perfectly executed goal from Liverpool and Dominik Szoboszlai ?

? @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/TQKtB4Xif2

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 14, 2026

Szoboszlai then did very well with the finish as well, but the firs-time touch from Salah was just genius.

Dominik Szoboszlai continues superb Liverpool form

Szoboszlai really is having an outstanding season for LFC, with this strike this evening making it ten goals in all competitions.

That’s the first time the Hungary international has hit double figures for the Merseyside giants, and it’s matched the best ever tally he managed at his former club RB Leipzig.

Still only 25 years of age, it’s a sign of just how far Szoboszlai can go in the game as he fast becomes Liverpool’s most important player.

More Stories / Latest News

Harry Kane reaches 500 career goals and betters Cristiano Ronaldo stat in the process

Feb 14 2026, 22:16

Dominik Szoboszlai makes it 2-0 to Liverpool but it’s all about this sublime Mohamed Salah assist

Feb 14 2026, 21:27

Report: Liverpool aware of club being keen to sign €50m-rated star but still hope he’ll choose LFC

Feb 14 2026, 20:56

Mohamed Salah now on the score sheet as well

Liverpool are now 3-0 up at the time of writing thanks to this Salah penalty putting some gloss on the score-line…

Mo Salah earns and converts an emphatic penalty to seemingly seal the win for Liverpool ?

? @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/nsjGVZNpqB

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 14, 2026

The Egypt international was out of favour with Arne Slot not that long ago, and it looked like the whole saga could really unravel the club’s season, but he’s now back in the team and looking something like his best again.

The post Dominik Szoboszlai makes it 2-0 to Liverpool but it’s all about this sublime Mohamed Salah assist appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool reportedly still have hope of keeping Ibrahima Konate despite him also having transfer interest from Real Madrid, according to Fichajes.

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The France international has been a hugely important player during his time at Anfield, but he’s now coming towards the end of his contract.

Real had cooled their interest in Konate, according to the Athletic, but it may be that the Spanish giants are once again considering him for this summer.

Fichajes claim that Los Blancos have rekindled their interest in Konate, though Liverpool still have some hope of being able to keep him.

Liverpool need to do what they can to keep Ibrahima Konate

Konate has rarely let Liverpool down since joining them from RB Leipzig back in 2021, and he could have a key role for their future as he’s still only 26 years of age.

That means he’s arguably yet to even reach his peak, and he could have a fair few years left ahead of him to replace Virgil van Dijk as the experienced head in this LFC side.

Van Dijk surely can’t play 90 minutes week in, week out for too much longer, so it would be a big help for Liverpool if Konate could stay.

More Stories / Latest News

Harry Kane reaches 500 career goals and betters Cristiano Ronaldo stat in the process

Feb 14 2026, 22:16

Dominik Szoboszlai makes it 2-0 to Liverpool but it’s all about this sublime Mohamed Salah assist

Feb 14 2026, 21:27

Report: Liverpool aware of club being keen to sign €50m-rated star but still hope he’ll choose LFC

Feb 14 2026, 20:56

As much as anything else, the Reds would be losing a valuable asset on a free, when Transfermarkt has his true market value at more like €50m.

It’s easy to see why a big club like Real Madrid would want Konate, and there’d surely be other suitors if he were to become a free agent.

Liverpool will likely do all they can to avoid this scenario after the heartache of losing Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid in a similar fashion last summer.

The post Report: Liverpool aware of club being keen to sign €50m-rated star but still hope he’ll choose LFC appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool have reportedly already had face-to-face talks with the representatives of Wolves wonderkid Mateus Mane over a potential £50m transfer.

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Manchester United are also keen on Mane, but Liverpool want to ensure they move ahead of their competition for the talented 18-year-old, according to Fichajes.

The Reds are big fans of Mane and believe they need to get a deal done for him now or else his value will just continue to skyrocket.

The England youth international will surely earn a big move sooner or later, especially as Wolves’ likely relegation from the Premier League this season will surely put them under more pressure to sell their best players.

Will Mateus Mane join Liverpool or Manchester United?

Mane is wanted by both LFC and MUFC, according to Fichajes, but it seems it’s Arne Slot and co. currently showing the strongest interest.

The report states that Man Utd also won’t rule out making a big move for Mane, but Liverpool are already working on this deal and view his £50m price tag as reasonable.

It will be interesting to see how this progresses, but it sounds positive for the Merseyside giants as they look to invest in a potentially world class talent.

This is not the first we’ve heard about Mane and Liverpool, with a recent report from DaveOCKop, claiming that the player’s representatives recently visited the AXA training centre for talks.

More Stories / Latest News

Harry Kane reaches 500 career goals and betters Cristiano Ronaldo stat in the process

Feb 14 2026, 22:16

Dominik Szoboszlai makes it 2-0 to Liverpool but it’s all about this sublime Mohamed Salah assist

Feb 14 2026, 21:27

Report: Liverpool aware of club being keen to sign €50m-rated star but still hope he’ll choose LFC

Feb 14 2026, 20:56

Still, United could also be a tempting project for Mane right now, and might also realistically afford Mane more of a chance of regular first-team football.

Wolves rate Mateus Mane highly

Mane made his debut for Wolves last season when he was still only 17, with former manager Vitor Pereira previously speaking very highly of him.

“Mane, I’m sure that he will be a surprise in England, in this league, because he’s a player with talent,” Pereira said, as quoted by Birmingham World.

“For sure, next season he’ll be in the first-team squad with us. He’s not only a talent, he’s a worker and for me, in that moment of the game, it was not just to give him the minutes. It was because I thought he could do something. He’s special.”

The post Face-to-face talks: Liverpool moving quickly to beat Man Utd to £50m star before his value skyrockets appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Alexander Isak exemplifies one of Europe’s most discussed strikers, a unique blend of subtlety
and efficiency. In a world dominated by throwers, he is the opposite, a unicorn forward combining the ball carrying skill with high conversion rates.

Headlines, however, have focused on injury concerns rather than his brilliance. While the headlines mostly concern injury, and his ability cannot be questioned given his 23% conversion rate, this is not a moment to argue with.

In order to discuss his injuries, we must start at the beginning, with Alexander Isak’s Origin Country (Sweden) and the Early Career that brought him to the Premier League.

Alexander Isak’s Origin Country and Early Life

To understand Isak’s journey, we must ask: where is Alexander Isak from? Born on September
21, 1999, he hails from Solna, Sweden, a municipality within the Stockholm metropolitan area,
foundational to his football identity. Although of Eritrean descent via his parents, the Alexander
Isak nationality and citizenship is Swedish. This dual heritage plays a minor role compared to
his comprehensive upbringing in the Swedish football system.

Raised in Solna, Isak’s development was rooted in the structured pathway at AIK, a 12-time
national championship club from his hometown. Enrolling in the academy at age six, he honed
his skills over a decade before debuting for the senior team. He quickly rose to prominence as a
prodigy, achieving feats like becoming the youngest-ever goal scorer in AIK’s history in February 2016 at 16 years old. He also set records as the youngest scorer in the Swedish Allsvenskan for AIK and netted his first international goal for Sweden as their youngest scorer. By January 2017, he had firmly established his elite pedigree.

Career Timeline: Sweden to Europe

Breakthrough at AIK

The 2016 season at AIK propelled Isak into the European football limelight. At just 16 years old,
he dispelled notions of being a mere prospect, netting 10 goals across 24 Allsvenskan matches.
Throughout his tenure, he showcased positional specialization, predominantly operating as a
central striker, resisting tendencies to drift wide—a trait observed in anticipation of his move to
elite leagues.

Development Years Abroad

Entering the upper echelons of European football requires bridging gaps between youth potential and Champions League realities. Isak’s time at Borussia Dortmund initially posed challenges with limited playing minutes, but he elevated his training intensity, cultivating resilience. A significant milestone came with his 2019 loan to Willem II in the Netherlands, where he became the first foreign player in Eredivisie history to score 12 goals within his initial 12 league appearances. This achievement helped consolidate his potential into tangible performance, facilitating a subsequent move to Real Sociedad where he evolved into a comprehensive striker.

Analysis: Premier League and Isak’s Rise

Isak’s transfer to Newcastle United confirmed his Premier League ascent. On Tyneside, he
distinguished himself by remarkable efficiency, amassing the second most non-penalty goals in
the league over recent seasons, trailing only Erling Haaland. Surpassing Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s
record for the most Premier League goals by a Swede further cemented his status.

Tactically, Isak exhibited “gravity,” disrupting defensive frameworks and drawing defenders away, complementing wingers like Jacob Murphy. The partnership between Isak and Murphy registered the highest statistical combination of assists to goal scorers during their peak periods.

By 25 years old, pundits pointed to his technical qualities and footballing IQ as justifying a valuation in the £120-150m range. However, his tenure at St. James’ Park ended with controversy as Isak ultimately went on strike and issued a public statement to facilitate a transfer.

The September 2025 Record-Transfer to Anfield

In September 2025, Alexander Isak finalized a move to Liverpool for a guaranteed fixed fee of
£125m, establishing a new British transfer record. He was immediately presented with the
prestigious Liverpool No 9 shirt, signing a six-year contract with wages approximating £300k per
week.

This signing drastically altered the contextual framing of the player. Where at Newcastle, Isak
was a high-potential prospect, arriving at Liverpool as a £125m investment meant he was
expected to be an immediate star. These expectations were amplified by a slow start, resulting
from a disrupted preparation period. Having trained in isolation while forcing the transfer, Isak
missed a proper preseason, leaving him underprepared physically for a title-contending squad.

Alexander Isak Injury Update

The optimism around the record-breaking transfer was punctured on Saturday, December 20,
2025, during Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. In the 60th minute, while scoring a
goal, Isak’s left ankle was trapped by a sliding defender, Micky van de Ven. Medical
examination confirmed a fibula fracture involving the ankle joint.

Subsequently, Isak underwent surgery on Monday, December 22, wherein a plate was inserted
for ankle stability and ligaments were repaired. Liverpool has ruled the striker out indefinitely,
with confirmed absence for at least 10 consecutive matches until February 11, 2026. The
overarching goal during rehab at the AXA Training Centre is preventing ankle joint instability.
The latest Arne Slot Alexander Isak injury update at Liverpool on the squad’s tactical adaptation
remains pertinent.

Club and National Team Implications

Isak’s absence has immediate and long-lasting tactical implications for both club and country.
The managerial strategy implemented by Arne Slot at Liverpool relies on Isak’s ability to disrupt
defensive lines for wingers like Florian Wirtz. Without the Isak effect, the system loses a key
component, reducing overall efficacy.

The impact on Sweden’s national team is equally significant, with head coach Graham Potter
compelled to adopt a managed-risk approach given the absence of their key offensive player.
Sweden’s World Cup qualification campaign is complicated by this absence, which impacts the
playoff route. Crucially, Potter has stated he will not play Isak for consecutive full matches as he
returns, placing long-term availability over immediate national team participation.

Optional: Keeping Up with Football Developments

The contemporary landscape of football media ensures that injury updates for record-transferred players receive granularity and coverage that might appear excessive. For those interested in staying current with football developments and trends in the sport’s betting landscape, football betting sites provide insights into competitive dynamics and how injuries affect market odds. Fans are encouraged to distinguish between “Media Watch” content derived from social media, injury rumours, and random narratives versus actual club-issued medical statements. Additionally, the Injury-Rotation Trap should be observed, where injuries to key players increase rotation risk for healthy players. The League Adaptation Gap remains notable, as players still require physical prep periods even in top leagues.

Conclusion

The Alexander Isak story from his Origin Country in Sweden to Europe epitomizes elite efficiency. From his record-breaking youth accolades at AIK to his £125m transfer to Liverpool, Isak has proven himself a unique ‘unicorn’ striker. When fit, his importance is unquantifiable.

However, the forward-looking analysis is predominantly one of patience. Injury rehabs like fibula
fractures require consistent training loads and should not be rushed. If Liverpool can successfully manage his rehabilitation, Alexander Isak remains the central figure poised to define the club’s future.

The post Alexander Isak: Origin Country, Career Timeline, and Latest Injury Update appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Barcelona was clearly the inferior team last Thursday in their visit to the Spanish capital. The 4-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid left many areas to improve for the players, but the referees were in the spotlight. Today the club formally complained after the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinal match.

The referee of the match was Juan Martínez Munuera, who did not have a good performance according to Barcelona. Their biggest complaint is the disallowed goal to Pau Cubarsí, while also claiming he did not apply the same criteria when he showed a red card to Eric García for a similar foul that Giuliano Simeone committed earlier.

This statement included five points the club wanted to highlight. Number one was the lack of coherence in disciplinary decisions. It explains: “This disparity creates a sense of a double standard, which is incompatible with the principles of fairness, equality, and legal certainty that should govern the competition.”

More of Barcelona’s complaint

Among the five points the club’s advisors presented to the Real Federación Española de Fútbol was one titled “contradictory criteria in hand plays.” It states: “The club highlights the incoherence in the interpretation of handballs inside the box. The lack of uniformity reinforces the arbitrariness of the application of the rules.”

The third point refers to a long list of mistakes against their side over time: “Beyond isolated cases, Barcelona sees the recurrence of flagrant mistakes throughout the season, many of them decisive for the club. This accumulation directly affects the integrity of the competition.”

The fourth focused on the VAR action. They described: “The club expressed reasonable doubts about the use and application of the technology, especially in marginal decisions that have not been supported by conclusive technical explanations. It also denounces the lack of transparency in the publication of the audio recordings.”

Barcelona’s last complaint about VAR

The use of the tool sparked much debate because it took six minutes for the referee to disallow Cubarsí’s goal. This was the final point in the long complaint the club presented.

They wrote the following about this controversy: “Barcelona questions the lack of a clear and coherent criterion for sending referees to the field to review plays on the monitor, which contributes to a perception of insecurity and inequality in decisions.”

Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence on modern soccer remains impossible to ignore, and now his legacy is quietly unfolding in the next generation. During Portugal’s youth preparations for the 2026 Algarve Tournament, attention turned to a familiar surname, sparking debate over whether history might be repeating itself. The teenager carrying the Ronaldo name drew headlines for an eye-catching moment that left fans questioning just how far the family dynasty could extend.

For Cristiano Ronaldo, who continues to shape the game with record-breaking feats and relentless ambition, seeing his eldest son step into the spotlight is both symbolic and intriguing. And while the journey is only just beginning, the signs of talent are already difficult to overlook.

The 15-year-old was captured performing spectacular trick moves with ease, showcasing technical control, ball mastery, and confidence with both feet. The video instantly went viral, sparking reactions from fans around the world who were stunned by the teenager’s natural ability. “Talent is so genetic it should be illegal,” wrote one supporter. 

“Kid’s got some serious moves just like his dad, wonder if he’ll break records too,” added another. Others echoed the sentiment, saying, “Talent clearly runs in the family. The future of football looks bright.” The footage reinforced a growing belief: Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. is not just living off his surname; he is beginning to show genuine promise of his own.

Growing under the Ronaldo shadow

Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. has grown up in elite soccer environments, following his father across Europe and the Middle East. He has played in the youth setups of the clubs where Cristiano Ronaldo starred, including Manchester United and now Al-Nassr, ensuring access to top-tier coaching and facilities.

He has also earned call-ups to the Portugal youth national team, marking an important step in building his own soccer identity. Observers have noted that his game already reflects discipline, tactical awareness, and strong positional understanding—qualities instilled by his father’s legendary work ethic.

Beyond raw skill, the 15-year-old has shown a competitive spirit, determination, and passion for improvement. These attributes mirror the mindset that defined Cristiano Ronaldo’s career and transformed him into one of the greatest players in history.

The Algarve Tournament: Symbolic stage

The 2026 Algarve Tournament serves as an important showcase for Portugal’s top youth prospects, with matches against Japan, the Netherlands, and Germany. For Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., the event marked a personal milestone, as it was his first international youth tournament played on home soil.

Portugal opened with a 3-0 win over Japan, where Ronaldo Jr. came on early due to an injury substitution. He made an immediate impact, nearly scoring, forcing several saves, providing an assist, and logging 64 minutes in a confident, involved attacking display.

A bigger step followed against the Netherlands, when he earned his first-ever start for Portugal U-16, playing 45 minutes on the left wing. He held his width well, made intelligent diagonal runs, and showed composure on the ball, opting for combination play and patient buildup rather than forcing individual actions.

The future of Luka Modric and Christian Pulisic has become one of the defining storylines of Milan’s long-term planning, as the club continues reshaping its squad around experience, stability, and star power. With Mike Maignan’s renewal already secured, attention has shifted to a new wave of contract negotiations that could shape the Rossoneri’s identity well into the next decade.

Behind the scenes, directors are juggling multiple priorities: rewarding key performers, maintaining squad continuity, and making decisions on veteran icons whose careers are approaching their twilight. And while the headlines may focus on new signings, the real battle at Milanello is happening at the negotiation table.

Milan recently finalized Mike Maignan’s contract renewal after a period of uncertainty, ensuring stability in goal and calming fears of losing a crucial pillar of the squad. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the extension was essential, given that his previous deal was set to expire soon and negotiations had been tense earlier in 2025.

The next priority is strengthening the core of the squad with further renewals. Fikayo Tomori is expected to be the next player rewarded with a new deal, while Davide Bartesaghi is set to receive a salary increase after emerging as a regular starter. Ruben Loftus-Cheek is also in line for improved terms due to his growing importance under Massimiliano Allegri.

Christian Pulisic’s contract: Strategic priority

Among the most delicate negotiations is Christian Pulisic’s future. The American winger is currently under contract until 2027, with an option extending it to 2028. The club plans to pick up the option, effectively securing his future without rushing into a new deal. However, Milan’s leadership wants a longer-term agreement that reflects his impact.

La Gazzetta dello Sport adds that the club sees Pulisic as one of the most decisive and consistent players in recent seasons, despite a quiet start to 2026. His influence on and off the pitch, combined with a strong bond with the fans, makes him a strategic asset worth securing long-term.

However, interest from abroad complicates matters. Reports suggest Premier League giants such as Liverpool and Arsenal are monitoring the USMNT captain, which could push Milan to act swiftly with improved terms and salary parity with the squad’s top earners.

The intriguing case of Luka Modric and Milan’s decision

While younger stars represent the future, Milan’s present has been shaped by Luka Modric’s experience and leadership. The Croatian maestro has been a technical reference point in Allegri’s system, controlling tempo and guiding younger teammates with his vision and composure.

His performances, including a decisive late goal against Pisa, have reinforced his value. In that match, the Croatian veteran scored a goal, made 93 accurate passes, and made key defensive contributions, earning MVP recognition from supporters on the official club platform. Yet, his contract situation remains one of the most fascinating dilemmas facing the club.

In the middle of ongoing negotiations, the club’s stance has quietly become clear. Milan will exercise Modric’s option to extend his contract until 2027, but only if the Croatian midfielder wishes to continue his journey at San Siro, per La Gazzetta dello Sport and Calciomercato.

The 40-year-old’s current deal expires this June, but the option for an additional year gives the Rossoneri flexibility. The club sees him as indispensable but respects that the final choice will rest with the player, who will evaluate his motivation, physical condition, family considerations, and the outcome of the 2026 World Cup.

This Saturday, Real Madrid will play a key La Liga Matchday 24 clash against Real Sociedad. It’s an important game for Los Blancos, as the standings at the top are very tight, with Barcelona currently in first place. Despite the significance of the match, Kylian Mbappe will not start.

Just over an hour before kickoff at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium, Real Madrid shared the confirmed lineup on their official social media accounts, highlighting the absence of the French forward.

Mbappe will begin the match on the bench, waiting for an opportunity to come on in the second half and continue extending his impressive goal-scoring streak this season, which currently makes him the top scorer in both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.

The reason coach Alvaro Arbeloa did not include Kylian in the starting XI is related to the physical issues he has experienced recently, which prevented him from taking part in several training sessions with his teammates this week.

How are Real Madrid covering for Mbappe’s absence?

It’s clear that Kylian Mbappe’s absence dramatically changes the team’s dynamics. Since last year, and especially this season, Real Madrid’s offensive strategy has revolved around creating the best conditions for the French forward to shine.

Without him, the attacking responsibility falls primarily on Vinicius Junior, the team’s other standout star, though his style and area of influence are very different from Mbappe’s. Supporting the Brazilian winger will be Gonzalo Garcia, who will take on the role of center forward.

Key clash in La Liga

While Real Madrid’s 2025-26 season has been far from ideal, with disappointments in the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup, that doesn’t mean their chances of competing for major titles are over. On the contrary, they are still very much alive both domestically and in Europe.

As they prepare for the Champions League playoffs against Benfica, Los Blancos know they cannot afford to neglect La Liga. They currently sit in second place in the standings, just one point behind league leaders Barcelona. Barcelona will play Girona on Monday, so a win for Real Madrid this Saturday against Real Sociedad would put them, at least temporarily, at the top of the table.

Juventus director Giorgio Chiellini admits Inter ‘have been the strongest squad in the league for many years now’ and stands up for troubled Teun Koopmeiners.

It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s three Serie A games on the Liveblog.

The Bianconeri won the Derby d’Italia back in September, emerging with a stoppage-time 4-3 victory in Turin, while last season this fixture ended 4-4 at San Siro.

Chiellini ready for Inter vs. Juventus

Can they keep the title race open maybe not for themselves, but for the other teams?

“We do hope to keep the Scudetto battle open, but Inter have been the strongest squad in the league for many years now, the club deserved credit for building such a great team,” Chiellini told Sky Sport Italia.

“It’s going to be a difficult but fun match to take part in, I hope to see apart from the result, also a confirmation of the performances we’ve seen in recent months.

“We need to make fewer mistakes, as we are paying a heavy price for those lately, but a good performance here against the best team in Serie A would be a confirmation of that form.”

Both Thuram brothers were on target when these sides met earlier in the season, but this time Khephren is out injured, joining Dusan Vlahovic and Arek Milik on the absentee list.

“Conceicao hasn’t always been available due to injury. Naturally, we have to focus on our quality and pace, because if we try to take Inter on physically, their defenders have considerably more than us on that level,” noted Chiellini.

With Khephren Thuram injured, it was assumed that Koopmeiners would step into the midfield, but he is dropped in favour of Fabio Miretti and Weston McKennie for a change of system to 4-3-3.

“Koop had a very good game against Lazio on Sunday and was unlucky with the offside goal. He is training well, he still needs to show what he did when playing for Atalanta, but he’s not complaining or anything, he’s relaxed and prepared for the game,” insisted Chiellini.

Inter President Beppe Marotta insists they are not that ‘pleasantly surprised’ by Cristian Chivu ahead of tonight’s clash with Juventus, as it was not a decision they made ‘lightly.’

It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s three Serie A games on the Liveblog.

The last few editions of the Derby d’Italia have been thrilling battles, including a 4-4 draw last season and 4-3 Juve victory back in September 2025.

The Nerazzurri are on extraordinary form, winning 11 of the last 12 Serie A games interrupted only a 2-2 draw with Napoli.

Inter had faith in relative newcomer Chivu

“It can confirm our recent excellent results and maintain momentum going forward in a tough season. We are also aware that we’re against a strong opponent, and are hoping for a positive result,” Marotta told Sky Sport Italia.

“We knew this was a strong team, the performance in Turin was very positive until some late incidents. We always looked more to the performances than the results, and in that sense have seen real progress building on solid foundations.”

Chivu was a bit of a surprise in taking over from Simone Inzaghi last summer with just days to go before the Club World Cup, but he had flourished.

“We didn’t choose Chivu lightly, we pondered it considering the man we had known, the coach he had become, and the player that he was. We didn’t need to think of other candidates, we went straight for him,” assured Marotta.

“Some might be pleasantly surprised by him, but we already expected him to be a protagonist in the world of coaches.”

Nicolò Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu returned to the squad after several weeks out, so the only remaining absentee is Denzel Dumfries, and he too has been participating in partial training sessions.

“Last season’s experience helped us to realise that we must try to achieve the maximum result in every competition. We are still in all three tournaments and we want to go all the way, but in modern football it’s not just about keeping physical freshness, but psychological too.

“This is why the coach rotates the squad and uses everyone in a very intelligent way,” concluded the Inter President.

Atalanta continue their climb up the Serie A table with this important victory away to Lazio, as Ederson’s penalty and a Nicola Zalewski curler conquered the Olimpico.

These teams will meet again in the Coppa Italia semi-final, with the second leg scheduled for March 4, as the Aquile beat holders Bologna on penalties on Wednesday. Alessio Romagnoli was suspended here, with Pedro, Mattia Zaccagni, Toma Basic, Manuel Lazzari and Samuel Gigot injured, so Daniel Maldini faced his former club. La Dea lost Charles De Ketelaere for at least a month following knee surgery, with Gianluca Scamacca not fully fit either, but Marten de Roon and Honest Ahanor returned from bans. The stadium was again mostly empty, as Lazio fans continue their protest.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

Ivan Provedel got it very wrong when rushing off his line to close down Lorenzo Bernasconi, who was able to put in the cross for Nikola Krstovic, but Oliver Provstgaard got back for a decisive goal-line clearance in an empty net.

Kenneth Taylor couldn’t get enough power on his acrobatic volley, while Ahanor nodded a corner wide of the far post.

Ahanor was struggling to deal with Gustav Isaksen and already on an early yellow card, so Raffaele Palladino hauled the 17-year-old off after just 25 minutes to introduce Sead Kolasinac.

Lazio remained aggressive and came very close moments later when Daniel Maldini pulled back from the by-line for Taylor, whose strike was fingertipped onto the near post by Marco Carnesecchi.

The game changed just before half-time when Davide Zappacosta completed a give and go to break down the right and his pull-back from the by-line was blocked by Danilo Cataldi’s raised arm as he came sliding in. The referee spotted it in real time without needing VAR, and Ederson sent Provedel the wrong way to put Atalanta in front.

Mario Gila went off with a knock just above the knee and Lazio also had penalty appeals for a potential Zappacosta handball after the restart, but Nuno Tavares was offside in the build-up and therefore irrelevant.

They had a huge double chance moments later, as on a short corner Carnesecchi made a one-handed save on the Tijjani Noslin flicked header, then Adam Marusic couldn’t keep the rebound down at the back post.

Instead, Atalanta doubled their advantage with ex-Roma talent Zalewski, who gathered outside the area and bent a wonderful right-foot strike into the far bottom corner.

Carnesecchi was ready for the Maldini free kick, but Atalanta had a problem when Raspadori hobbled off with a thigh problem at the 86^th minute with all the substitutions completed, so they finished with 10 men.

In this scenario, Lazio threatened to get back into the game with Petar Ratkov’s header from a corner clipping the upright. Ratkov also hit a fresh-air shot from eight yards, although his blushes were spared by Boulaye Dia’s offside.

Atalanta temporarily go into sixth place, although Como have a game in hand.

Lazio 0-2 Atalanta

Ederson pen 41 (A), Zalewski 60 (A)

14-02-2026 17:00

MatchDay 25

Stadio Olimpico

Lazio

Atalanta

0 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

		10'		Giorgio Scalvini
		12'		Honest Ahanor
		41'		Éderson

2nd half

		60'		Nicola Zalewski (Assist: Lorenzo Bernasconi)
		74'		Lorenzo Bernasconi
Kenneth Taylor		78'
		90'		Berat Djimsiti

Match statistic

50

Possession %

50

18

Total shots

12

5

Shots on target

5

7

Shots off target

4

6

Blocked shots

3

5

Corners

4

3

Offsides

1

10

Fouls

16

Lazio

Atalanta

Starting lineups

94

Ivan Provedel

Goalkeeper

77

Adam Marusic

Defender

34

Mario Gila

Defender

46'

17

Nuno Tavares

Defender

25

Oliver Provstgaard

Defender

Daniel Maldini

Midfielder

32

Danilo Cataldi

Midfielder

67'

7

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Midfielder

24

Kenneth Taylor

Midfielder

79'

18

Gustav Isaksen

Attacker

88'

14

Tijjani Noslin

Attacker

67'

29

Marco Carnesecchi

Goalkeeper

19

Berat Djimsiti

Defender

77

Davide Zappacosta

Defender

83'

42

Giorgio Scalvini

Defender

46'

69

Honest Ahanor

Defender

25'

47

Lorenzo Bernasconi

Defender

13

Éderson

Midfielder

10

Lazar Samardžić

Midfielder

46'

15

Marten de Roon

Midfielder

59

Nicola Zalewski

Midfielder

70'

90

Nikola Krstovic

Attacker

Substitutes

23

Elseid Hysaj

Defender

55

Alessio Furlanetto

Goalkeeper

3

Luca Pellegrini

Defender

21

Reda Belahyane

Midfielder

Edoardo Motta

Goalkeeper

71

Valerio Farcomeni

Midfielder

99

Adrian Przyborek

Attacker

4

Patric

Defender

46'

6

Nicolò Rovella

Midfielder

67'

20

Petar Ratkov

Attacker

67'

22

Matteo Cancellieri

Attacker

79'

19

Boulaye Dia

Attacker

88'

31

Francesco Rossi

Goalkeeper

8

Mario Pasalic

Midfielder

57

Marco Sportiello

Goalkeeper

9

Gianluca Scamacca

Attacker

5

Mitchel Bakker

Defender

4

Isak Hien

Defender

6

Yunus Musah

Midfielder

23

Sead Kolasinac

Defender

25'

18

Giacomo Raspadori

Attacker

46'

3

Odilon Kossounou

Defender

46'

7

Kamaldeen Sulemana

Midfielder

70'

16

Raoul Bellanova

Defender

83'

Inter bring Nicolò Barella back with Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram, but Juventus are forced to change with Kenan Yildiz, Francisco Conceicao and Jonathan David.

It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s three Serie A games on the Liveblog.

This is the Derby d’Italia, a notorious grudge match, not to mention a battle between two of the top five.

The last few editions have been thrilling, including a 4-4 draw at San Siro last season, and a 4-3 Juventus victory in Turin back in September.

Both Thuram brothers were on target that day, but this time around Khephren is out with a bruised leg and not even on the bench.

He joins Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik on the treatment table, so Fabio Miretti and Weston McKennie into a deeper midfield role than usual.

Conceicao shrugs off a knee issue to start with Yildiz and David upfront in what appears to be a 4-3-3 formation.

Inter have big news, as Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu returned to training on Tuesday after several weeks out, leaving just Denzel Dumfries on the absentee list.

Only the Italian is thrown straight into the starting XI with Piotr Zielinski and Petar Sucic, while Marcus Thuram partners Capocannoniere Lautaro Martinez.

They are running away at the top of the Serie A table, winning 11 of the last 12 games.

Inter vs. Juventus line-ups

Inter: Sommer; Bisseck, Akanji, Bastoni; Luis Henrique, Barella, Zielinski, Sucic, Dimarco; Lautaro Martinez, M Thuram

Juventus: Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly, Cambiaso; McKennie, Locatelli, Miretti; Conceicao, David, Yildiz

14-02-2026 19:45

MatchDay 25

San Siro Stadium (Stadio Giuseppe Meazza)

Inter

Juventus

3 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

Alessandro Bastoni		9'
Andrea Cambiaso		17'
		26'		Andrea Cambiaso (Assist: Weston McKennie)
		32'		Pierre Kalulu
		42'		Pierre Kalulu

2nd half

Nicolò Barella		53'
Pio Esposito (Assist: Federico Dimarco)		76'
Hakan Calhanoglu		79'
		83'		Manuel Locatelli (Assist: Weston McKennie)
Piotr Zielinski (Assist: Yann Bisseck)		90'
Piotr Zielinski		90+1'

Match statistic

60

Possession %

40

21

Total shots

11

9

Shots on target

8

7

Shots off target

2

5

Blocked shots

1

4

Corners

1

1

Offsides

1

15

Fouls

7

Inter

Juventus

Starting lineups

1

Yann Sommer

Goalkeeper

95

Alessandro Bastoni

Defender

46'

32

Federico Dimarco

Defender

25

Manuel Akanji

Defender

8

Petar Sucic

Defender

67'

31

Yann Bisseck

Defender

23

Nicolò Barella

Midfielder

54'

7

Piotr Zielinski

Midfielder

10

Lautaro Martínez

Attacker

11

Luis Henrique

Attacker

66'

9

Marcus Thuram

Attacker

86'

16

Michele Di Gregorio

Goalkeeper

27

Andrea Cambiaso

Defender

78'

3

Bremer

Defender

6

Lloyd Kelly

Defender

15

Pierre Kalulu

Defender

21

Fabio Miretti

Midfielder

61'

5

Manuel Locatelli

Midfielder

22

Weston McKennie

Midfielder

7

Francisco Conceição

Attacker

46'

30

Jonathan David

Attacker

61'

10

Kenan Yıldız

Attacker

75'

Substitutes

22

Henrikh Mkhitaryan

Midfielder

15

Francesco Acerbi

Defender

16

Davide Frattesi

Midfielder

36

Matteo Darmian

Defender

6

Stefan de Vrij

Defender

13

Josep Martínez

Goalkeeper

12

Raffaele Di Gennaro

Goalkeeper

43

Matteo Cocchi

Defender

30

Carlos Augusto

Midfielder

46'

20

Hakan Calhanoglu

Midfielder

54'

94

Pio Esposito

Attacker

66'

17

Andy Diouf

Attacker

67'

14

Ange-Yoan Bonny

Defender

86'

23

Carlo Pinsoglio

Goalkeeper

1

Mattia Perin

Goalkeeper

4

Federico Gatti

Defender

18

Filip Kostic

Midfielder

11

Edon Zhegrova

Attacker

17

Vasilije Adžić

Midfielder

2

Emil Holm

Defender

46'

8

Teun Koopmeiners

Midfielder

61'

32

Juan Cabal

Defender

61'

13

Jeremie Boga

Attacker

75'

20

Loïs Openda

Attacker

78'

Liam Delap admitted to making a “silly” error after his premature celebrations cost him a goal in Chelsea’s 4-0 rout of Hull City in the FA Cup. Liam Rosenior’s team eased into the fifth round of the competition with a dominant performance at MKM Stadium on Friday, with Pedro Neto scoring a hat-trick. Estevao was […]

The post Chelsea´s Delap owns up to ´silly´ error after horror miss appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Chelsea´s Delap owns up to ´silly´ error after horror miss appeared first on Soccer News.

Verdict: Lamine Yamal to score anytime  Best Odds: 29/20 Bookmaker: Luckster With Catalonia bragging rights up for grabs on Monday night, Barcelona will travel to the Estadi Montilivi when they meet local rivals Girona. Girona Starting with the hosts, while Girona might have opened 2026 at the heart of a La Liga relegation scrap, Michel’s […]

The post Prediction: Girona vs Barcelona – Betting Tips, Team News, Key Facts appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Prediction: Girona vs Barcelona – Betting Tips, Team News, Key Facts appeared first on Soccer News.

Verdict: Vedat Muriqi over 0.5 shots on target Best Odds: 4/9 Bookmaker: Olympusbet Hoping to make up some ground in the Champions League chase, Real Betis will travel to Palma on Sunday night when they meet Mallorca. Mallorca Starting with the hosts, making an immediate return to losing ways last time out as they eventually […]

The post Prediction: Mallorca vs Real Betis – Betting Tips, Team News, Key Facts appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Prediction: Mallorca vs Real Betis – Betting Tips, Team News, Key Facts appeared first on Soccer News.

This Saturday, Cristiano Ronaldo returned to official action with Al Nassr after a voluntary two-week absence, and he did so in style. He scored the opener for his team in the Saudi Pro League clash against Al Fateh.

Those days of conflict between CR7 and the Public Investment Fund — sparked by certain decisions during the transfer window that led the Portuguese star to refuse to play in the previous two Saudi Pro League matches as a form of protest — are now in the past.

Al Nassr welcomed Ronaldo back for Saturday’s clash against Al Fateh, allowing head coach Jorge Jesus to deploy his preferred attacking setup, with Kingsley Coman and Sadio Mane on the wings, Joao Felix operating as the attacking midfielder and Cristiano serving as the focal point up front.

Under that setup, Al Nassr got off to an ideal start, needing just 17 minutes to break through. Ronaldo initiated the move by carrying the ball into the attacking half before laying it off to Sadio Mane and making his way into the box to await the return pass. The Senegal international delivered, sending in a precise cross that CR7 calmly finished to open the scoring.

After the opener, Al Nassr came close to extending their lead in an attack where Joao Felix took a shot, the ball traveled across the box in front of goal, but Ronaldo couldn’t get a touch. The hosts also had their chances, the clearest being a free kick from Matias Vargas that rattled the crossbar.

Yahya scores another goal for Al Nassr

In the second half, things didn’t change much. Al Nassr continued to look like the better-organized team on the field and came close to extending their lead on multiple occasions. However, saves from goalkeeper Pacheco and some finishing errors kept them from doing so.

In that context, they could have secured some breathing room midway through the second half, when Mohamed Simakan scored a second goal after capitalizing on a rebound inside the box. But after a VAR review that lasted several minutes, the goal was ruled out for a prior offside.

That frustration didn’t last long, though, as in the 77th minute Kingsley Coman delivered a precise cross that found Ayman Yahya in the box. The Saudi winger, who had come on just minutes earlier for Sadio Mane, controlled the ball and unleashed an impressive shot that made it 2-0.

Christian Pulisic made his long-awaited return to action as Milan edged past Pisa in a tense Serie A encounter, and the American winger wasted no time acknowledging the significance of the victory. The night was filled with drama, late goals, and disciplinary twists, but it also marked an important personal milestone for Pulisic after his recent injury setback.

While the match itself showcased Milan’s resilience and title credentials, Pulisic’s subtle reaction afterward added another layer to a growing narrative around his recovery and his role in the club’s season-defining campaign.

The Rossoneri secured a 2-1 victory over Pisa on Friday, in a tightly contested Serie A fixture at the Arena Garibaldi. Despite dominating possession and creating clearer chances, they had to wait until the final minutes to secure all three points.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek opened the scoring in the 39th minute with a header, capitalizing on a precise cross from Zachary Athekame. Pisa equalized through Felipe Loyola in the 71st minute, but veteran midfielder Luka Modric restored Milan’s lead in the 85th minute with a decisive strike, assisted by Samuele Ricci. The match also saw Niclas Fullkrug miss a penalty and Adrien Rabiot receive a late red card, adding tension to the closing stages. 

The victory extended Milan’s unbeaten Serie A run to 23 matches, strengthening their position near the top of the table and keeping pressure on the league leader. The result was particularly valuable given the upcoming fixtures involving rival clubs, highlighting the importance of capitalizing on every opportunity in the title race. Pisa, meanwhile, remained 19th in the table and winless in 14 league matches, deepening their relegation concerns despite a spirited performance against one of Italy’s strongest teams.

Pulisic marks return from injury

Pulisic returned to the pitch after missing recent action due to bursitis, coming off the bench for a brief cameo. He played just 14 minutes, but his presence was a positive sign for Milan, especially with several attackers still not fully fit.

Massimiliano Allegri had previously confirmed that the American was only fit for limited minutes, which explained his role as a substitute rather than a starter. Nevertheless, his return marked a significant step in his recovery process after a frustrating spell on the sidelines.

How did Pulisic react?

After the match, Pulisic shared a brief but symbolic reaction on social media. He posted three applause emojis on his Instagram story to celebrate both Milan’s victory and his return. Though understated, the message carried meaning. It symbolized relief, satisfaction, and optimism, a simple yet telling sign that Pulisic felt encouraged by both his fitness progress and the team’s performance.

Despite being without a goal in 2026 so far, the 27-year-old remains one of Milan’s most decisive and consistent players. His return against the Nerazzurri, even in limited minutes, was seen as an encouraging sign that he will soon regain full fitness and resume his role as a key attacking weapon.

Christian Pulisic was back on the pitch in Tuscany, and although his contribution lasted only minutes, his return coincided with a night that could shape Milan’s season and its place in history. The American winger stepped onto the field late in the match, marking his comeback from injury, as the Rossoneri scraped a dramatic victory that kept their title ambitions alive and nudged them closer to an elusive historical benchmark that has stood untouched for decades.

On the surface, it was just another hard-fought league win. Beneath it, Milan quietly edged closer to a milestone that would connect Massimiliano Allegri’s team with one of the greatest eras in the club’s past. The visitors secured a 2-1 victory over Pisa thanks to a late strike from Luka Modric, closing the gap on Serie A leader Inter to five points ahead of the weekend’s high-stakes clash between Inter and Juventus.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek opened the scoring just before halftime with a powerful header, while Niclas Fullkrug failed to convert from the penalty spot. Pisa fought back through Felipe Loyola, threatening to derail the visitors’ title push, before Modric stole into the box and poked home the winner in the closing minutes.

Pulisic returned from bursitis with a 14-minute cameo, a cautious reintroduction after a frustrating spell on the sidelines. Allegri had confirmed before the match that the winger was only fit for limited minutes, which explained his substitute role. Even so, his return carried symbolic weight.

With several attackers still managing fitness issues, his presence was seen as a major boost for Milan’s depth and attacking options as the season enters its decisive phase. More importantly, his comeback aligned with one of the most significant achievements of Allegri’s tenure so far—an achievement that links the present squad with the Rossoneri’s golden past.

The historic record revealed

By defeating Pisa, Milan extended its unbeaten Serie A run to 23 matches, matching a legendary benchmark that had stood for more than three decades. This result equaled the 23-match unbeaten run from the 1992-93 season under Fabio Capello, one of the most iconic campaigns in Milan’s history. That streak had long been a symbol of dominance, tactical discipline, and elite mentality.

For Allegri’s current squad, drawing level with that record represents a connection between generations, a bridge between modern resilience and historical greatness. Now, Milan stands on the brink of rewriting history. The next league fixture against Como presents an opportunity to surpass Capello’s benchmark with a 24th consecutive unbeaten match, setting a new modern club record.

The symbolism is powerful: a team seeking to reassert itself among Europe’s elite now has the chance to eclipse one of its most celebrated milestones.

Another statistical milestone

The achievements do not stop there. According to Opta, Milan has also equaled its second-best points tally after the first 24 matches in the three-points-for-a-win era, matching campaigns from 1995-96 (53 points) and trailing only the 2003-04 season (61 points). This statistical consistency underlines Allegri’s impact and the club’s steady climb back toward the top of Italian soccer.

Paulo Dybala is reportedly out of the Roma squad to face Napoli on Sunday evening, while Matias Soulé should be at least on the bench.

It kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Sunday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

Coach Gian Piero Gasperini had already warned in his press conference earlier today that he had concerns about both Argentine talents in his squad.

Dybala out, Soule in doubt for Roma

According to Sky Sport Italia, Dybala is still struggling with persistent pain in his knee and will not be risked for the big match.

Soulé is by no means fully fit either, as he has recurring groin issue, but is at the very least going to make the trip to Naples.

The Giallorossi are already forced to do without Manu Kone, Evan Ferguson, Artem Dovbyk and Stephan El Shaarawy, with Angelino and Robinio Vaz only fit for the bench.

If Soulé is not able to feature from the start, then January signing Bryan Zaragoza will get his full debut.

Edoardo Bove has returned to the field for the first time since the cardiac arrest playing for Fiorentina in December 2024, making his debut for Watford.

The 23-year-old came off the bench for the closing minutes of today’s 2-2 English Championship draw away to Preston North End.

Bove career begins again in England

The midfielder came up through the Roma youth academy and was on loan at Fiorentina when he suddenly collapsed during their Serie A match with Inter at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

He was revived on the field and rushed to the local hospital, where after tests, he received an implanted cardiac defibrillator.

The Italian rules mean that any athlete with this type of implant is banned from participating in professional sport, which is why Christian Eriksen was forced to leave Inter after a similar situation when representing Denmark at EURO 2024.

Last month, Bove terminated his contract with Roma by mutual consent, and signed for Watford as a free agent.

Como head coach Cesc Fabregas did not hold back in his criticism of striker Alvaro Morata, who was sent off at the end of Como’s surprise 2-1 defeat at home against relegation-threatened Fiorentina on Saturday afternoon: ‘Those who can’t live with it should play another sport’. 

Goals from Nicolo Fagioli and Moise Kean gave Fiorentina, who had been in the relegation zone before kick-off, enough to hold onto at the Stadio Sinigaglia, despite a second-half own goal from Fabiano Parisi. 

You can see how the action unfolded on the Football Italia Liveblog.

Fabregas reacts to Como 1-2 Fiorentina

Fabregas cut a frustrated figure during his post-match interview with DAZN, criticising his players for their lack of awareness, and Morata for his lack of self-control in the final minutes, which led to his sending off. 

“I’m annoyed that I wasn’t able to help the boys understand the importance of the game. I showed them my experience as a footballer during the week, maybe too much, but it wasn’t enough. We’re a young team,” Fabregas said after full-time. 

“It wasn’t a football match in the second half. Leaving that aside, the game has to be won with the right motivation and energy. I feel bad as a coach, because I wasn’t able to convey this to my players today. Maybe it was in our heads. We made a mistake in our attitude, we have to show more desire and be better in attack if we want to play our game. 

“I didn’t like the first half very much, the second half, I repeat, wasn’t a game of football.” 

Fabregas believes that Como’s congested fixture schedule is a benefit after a game like today’s. 

“In 72 hours, we’ll play in San Siro and then against Torino, and this is a good thing to look forward to after this game,” he said. 

Fabregas did not hold back when asked to comment on Morata’s late sending off. The Spaniard was shown two yellow cards in quick succession for tussles with Rolando Mandragora and then with Marin Pongracic. 

“Provocation is part of football, those who can’t live with that should play another sport,” Fabregas said. 

“I expect much more from an experienced player like him. We can’t make excuses, though, and we can’t allow for what other people do on the pitch to affect us.”

Paolo Vanoli says that it is ‘not easy for a team like Fiorentina to go from fighting for a European place to fighting for survival, but has expressed his pride at his players after picking up a big 2-1 victory away against Como in Serie A on Saturday afternoon. 

The 2025-26 season has been one to forget for Fiorentina, who have found themselves in the bottom four for the vast majority of the campaign. 

The Viola managed to lift themselves out of the bottom three on  Saturday afternoon thanks to a 2-1 victory away against Como, who had beaten them 3-1 in Tuscany in the Coppa Italia at the end of January. Nicolo Fagioli and Moise Kean were enough for Vanoli’s side to hold onto, despite a second-half own goal from Fabiano Parisi. 

You can see how the action unfolded on the Football Italia Liveblog.

Vanoli reacts to Como 1-2 Fiorentina victory

“I congratulate the guys, we played a great game with a lot of sacrifice and showed that with organisation and intensity, we can beat teams like Como,” Vanoli said in his post-match interview with DAZN.

“We have to keep our feet on the ground, keep our heads down and think about the next one, first in the Conference League and then in the league.” 

Vanoli was asked what he makes of goalscorer Fagioli and the form that he has been on as of late. 

“He has great qualities, he defends well, we are working hard and he is improving a lot, the numbers say so. He made me a bit angry in the first 15 minutes, then he recovered. He has goals in him, he has to arrive with more determination and malice.” 

And on the team in general, Vanoli added: “Since I arrived, I’ve tried to get this message of how to achieve safety across. It’s been a difficult transition, it’s not easy for a team like Fiorentina to go from a goal like fighting for European place to fighting for survival. 

“We have to have courage and everything I have done, I’ve done to try and find new solutions, because this is a team with lots of quality.” 

Match Overview

The pressure is rising in the La Liga title chase, and Real Madrid have a golden opportunity to shake up the standings this weekend. Sitting on 57 points—just one behind archrival Barcelona—Los Blancos could leap into first place, at least temporarily, with a victory if Barça stumble in their own matchup.

But it won’t come easy against a red-hot Real Sociedad side battling for crucial European spots, meaning both teams have everything to play for. With Kylian Mbappe spearheading Madrid’s attack and the title race hanging in the balance, this is a showdown you won’t want to miss.

Match Overview

Silverware aspirations take center stage in this fourth-round FA Cup showdown as Liverpool square off with Brighton & Hove in a win-or-go-home battle. With the Premier League title slipping from their grasp, Liverpool are placing major emphasis on this competition

On the other hand will be Brighton, currently outside the European places, who see the FA Cup as their best opportunity to go for a title this season. Expect high intensity from both sides as they fight for a spot in the next round—this is a clash you won’t want to miss.

The Saudi Pro League is entering its decisive stretch, and the battle at the top of the table is growing increasingly intense. Al Nassr are determined to fight until the end, and to do that, they need a win this Saturday against Al Fateh. Cristiano Ronaldo once again commands the spotlight.

The Portuguese forward was at the center of widespread speculation in recent weeks after declining to play for Al Nassr in their previous two Saudi Pro League matches, reportedly as a way to express his dissatisfaction with the Public Investment Fund over transfer market decisions.

Although Al Nassr still managed to win those matchups against Al Riyadh and Al Ittihad, Ronaldo’s absence was noticeable and contributed to efforts to reach a peaceful resolution. After two weeks, the situation was finally clarified, and CR7 agreed to return to action this Saturday against Al Fateh.

As a result, head coach Jorge Jesus will once again have his biggest star available as Al Nassr look to secure another victory and remain within striking distance of the top of the standings. Al Hilal currently lead the league after defeating Al Ettifaq 2-0 on Friday, with Al Ahli three points behind them. Al Nassr sit one point behind the latter, but have played one fewer match, meaning a win on Saturday could move them even closer to the summit.

Probable lineup for Al Nassr

Cristiano Ronaldo’s return is undoubtedly the biggest news for Al Nassr heading into Saturday’s match. His presence allows Jorge Jesus to field his primary attacking weapons once again, making his squad one of the most dangerous in the Saudi Pro League.

The projected starting lineup for Al Nassr against Al Fateh is: Bento; Sultan Al Ghanam, Mohamed Simakan, Inigo Martinez, Nawaf Boushal; Marcelo Brozovic, Abdullah Al Khaibari; Kingsley Coman, Joao Felix, Sadio Mane; Cristiano Ronaldo.

Probable lineup for Al Fateh

Al Fateh find themselves in a very different position than Al Nassr. They currently sit 10th in the standings with 24 points, 29 behind league leaders Al Hilal. With the title race realistically out of reach, they will look to make a statement against Cristiano Ronaldo and company.

The projected starting lineup for Al Fateh against Al Nassr is: Fernando Pacheco; Abdulaziz Al Suwailem, Marwane Saadane, Jorge Fernandes, Saeed Baattia; Naif Masoud, Zaydou Youssouf, Sofiane Bendebka; Matias Vargas, Wesley Delgado, Fahad Aqeel Al Zubaidi.

Match Overview

The Serie A spotlight turns to the Derby d’Italia as league leaders Inter Milan look to extend their advantage at the top of the table, entering the showdown with 58 points and a five-point cushion that could grow even larger with a statement result.

Standing in their way are Juventus, who are feeling the heat after a 2-2 draw with Lazio left them level on points with AS Roma and holding onto a Champions League place only on goal difference. With the title race tightening and European qualification on the line, this rivalry clash could dramatically reshape the standings.

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Raffaele Palladino explains how he worked on revitalising the Atalanta ‘mentality’ and his surprising tweaks for today’s trip to Lazio. ‘I don’t believe in squad rotation.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 17.00 GMT.

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s three Serie A games on the Liveblog.

This is an early opportunity to see these teams face off, as they will meet again in the Coppa Italia semi-final, starting with the first leg in the Capital on March 4.

It is also a battle between seventh and eighth in the Serie A table, and with Como stumbling to a defeat at home to Fiorentina earlier today, it’s an opportunity for Atalanta to go sixth.

Palladino has transformed Atalanta

“When I first arrived, the players were upset and we had to work on the mental aspect, revitalising their enthusiasm and finding that self-belief they had perhaps lost along the way,” Palladino told DAZN Italia.

“The rest comes as a consequence of that, as this is a team with a lot of quality, the tactical principles were already clear and similar to the ones I had worked on in the past, so we fit together very quickly.

“We’ve achieved nothing yet, this is the most delicate spell of the season, and we need to face it with the right mentality.”

Charles De Ketelaere had knee surgery for a meniscus tear and is expected to be out of action for at least a month.

Gianluca Scamacca is not fully fit either today, though Marten de Roon and Honest Ahanor return from suspension, but it is Nicola Zalewski who starts rather than Giacomo Raspadori.

Is this to rest the Italian ahead of the Champions League play-off with Borussia Dortmund?

“I never rotate the squad, I don’t believe in it, I just focus on picking the best available team for that match. I am fortunate to have 20 players available who are all strong and anyone who steps in is able to give their best,” replied Palladino.

“I feel we have the best XI for the characteristics of this game, the players know what they need to do and we will aim to win, though it won’t be easy against a Lazio side in good shape.”

Delegates from Milan have been in Liverpool to visit and study Everton’s new Hill Dickinson stadium as part of their fact-finding mission for the new stadium in San Siro. 

Milan visit Everton to take inspiration from new stadium

As of November, Milan and Inter have officially acquired the San Siro site, including the iconic Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, which had previously been owned by the city council. Acquiring the stadium was a fundamental step in the journey to building a new ground on the same site. 

According to various reports in Italy, the Milan clubs intend to demolish the vast majority of their stadium in its current form in order to make way for a new, state-of-the-art venue capable of hosting matches at EURO 2032. 

The new stadium is expected to be built nearby, but not in place of the current Stadio Meazza, which means that the construction of the new ground could begin in 2027, and the demolition of the current stadium in 2031. 

According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, a delegation of five representatives from AC Milan have recently been in Liverpool to study Everton’s new Hill Dickinson stadium, which was officially opened in 2025. 

The 52,769-capacity stadium hosted its first Premier League match on the opening day of the 2025-26 Premier League season, replacing the historic Goodison Park, which had been in operation for 133 years. 

Everton is not the only stop on Milan’s fact-finding mission, though. La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that there will be visits to other clubs across Europe over the coming months. 

It is understood that the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Borussia Dortmund’s Signal Iduna Park are also among Milan’s inspirations.

With Charles De Ketelaere out, Atalanta look to Lazar Samardzic and Nikola Krstovic against Lazio’s Daniel Maldini and Tijjani Noslin, before these teams meet in the Coppa Italia semi-final.

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 17.00 GMT.

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s three Serie A games on the Liveblog.

This is meant to be a head-to-head for European ambitions, although a six-point gap has opened up between these sides in seventh and eighth place.

They will face off again in the Coppa Italia semi-final on March 4, with the second leg in Bergamo in April.

La Dea lost De Ketelaere to a meniscus injury, as he had surgery on Thursday and will be out of action for at least a month.

Gianluca Scamacca is not fully fit either, but Marten de Roon and Honest Ahanor return from suspension after the 2-1 win over Cremonese.

Giacomo Raspadori is rested in favour of Samardzic and Nicola Zalewski in support of Krstovic.

Lazio have had a chaotic few weeks, which saw dramatic late goals in a 3-2 win over Genoa and 2-2 draw away to Juventus.

They were in action on Wednesday, eliminating Coppa Italia holders Bologna in a penalty shoot-out at the Stadio Dall’Ara.

Alessio Romagnoli returned from his failed transfer to Al-Sadd only to immediately pick up a Serie A ban, while Pedro sprained his ankle and will be out for a month.

Mattia Zaccagni, Toma Basic, Manuel Lazzari and Samuel Gigot are also injured, leaving Maurizio Sarri with few options.

Daniel Maldini starts against his former club, who he left in January, flanked by Gustav Isaksen and Noslin.

Oliver Provstgaard steps into defence, with Fisayo Dele-Bashiru plugging the midfield gaps.

Lazio vs. Atalanta line-ups

Lazio: Provedel; Marusic, Gila, Provstgaard, Tavares; Dele-Bashiru, Cataldi, Taylor; Isaksen, Maldini, Noslin

Atalanta: Carnesecchi; Scalvini, Djmsiti, Ahanor; Zappacosta, De Roon, Ederson, Bernasconi; Samardzic, Zalewski; Krstovic

14-02-2026 17:00

MatchDay 25

Stadio Olimpico

Lazio

Atalanta

0 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

		10'		Giorgio Scalvini
		12'		Honest Ahanor
		41'		Éderson

2nd half

		60'		Nicola Zalewski (Assist: Lorenzo Bernasconi)
		74'		Lorenzo Bernasconi
Kenneth Taylor		78'
		90'		Berat Djimsiti

Match statistic

50

Possession %

50

18

Total shots

12

5

Shots on target

5

7

Shots off target

4

6

Blocked shots

3

5

Corners

4

3

Offsides

1

10

Fouls

16

Lazio

Atalanta

Starting lineups

94

Ivan Provedel

Goalkeeper

77

Adam Marusic

Defender

34

Mario Gila

Defender

46'

17

Nuno Tavares

Defender

25

Oliver Provstgaard

Defender

Daniel Maldini

Midfielder

32

Danilo Cataldi

Midfielder

67'

7

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Midfielder

24

Kenneth Taylor

Midfielder

79'

18

Gustav Isaksen

Attacker

88'

14

Tijjani Noslin

Attacker

67'

29

Marco Carnesecchi

Goalkeeper

19

Berat Djimsiti

Defender

77

Davide Zappacosta

Defender

83'

42

Giorgio Scalvini

Defender

46'

69

Honest Ahanor

Defender

25'

47

Lorenzo Bernasconi

Defender

13

Éderson

Midfielder

10

Lazar Samardžić

Midfielder

46'

15

Marten de Roon

Midfielder

59

Nicola Zalewski

Midfielder

70'

90

Nikola Krstovic

Attacker

Substitutes

23

Elseid Hysaj

Defender

55

Alessio Furlanetto

Goalkeeper

3

Luca Pellegrini

Defender

21

Reda Belahyane

Midfielder

Edoardo Motta

Goalkeeper

71

Valerio Farcomeni

Midfielder

99

Adrian Przyborek

Attacker

4

Patric

Defender

46'

6

Nicolò Rovella

Midfielder

67'

20

Petar Ratkov

Attacker

67'

22

Matteo Cancellieri

Attacker

79'

19

Boulaye Dia

Attacker

88'

31

Francesco Rossi

Goalkeeper

8

Mario Pasalic

Midfielder

57

Marco Sportiello

Goalkeeper

9

Gianluca Scamacca

Attacker

5

Mitchel Bakker

Defender

4

Isak Hien

Defender

6

Yunus Musah

Midfielder

23

Sead Kolasinac

Defender

25'

18

Giacomo Raspadori

Attacker

46'

3

Odilon Kossounou

Defender

46'

7

Kamaldeen Sulemana

Midfielder

70'

16

Raoul Bellanova

Defender

83'

Fiorentina climbed out of the relegation zone with a shock win away to high-flying Como, as Nicolò Fagioli and Moise Kean’s penalty were decisive, with tension getting to Alvaro Morata.

The Lariani were fresh from a Coppa Italia quarter-final victory over Napoli in a sudden death penalty shoot-out, still missing Assane Diao and Edoardo Goldaniga. Albert Gudmundsson, Daniele Rugani and Tariq Lamptey didn’t make the trip for the Viola, whose form stalled again with one point from three rounds. Curiously, these teams met in the Coppa Italia on January 27, Como emerging 3-1 winners at the Stadio Franchi.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

Nico Paz tested David De Gea, but it was Fiorentina who broke the deadlock somewhat against the run of play. Niccolò Fagioli was fortunate that both a cleared cross and the rebound from his initial shot fell kindly into his path, so he then dribbled into the box and surprised Jean Butez at the near post.

Nico Paz drilled wide of the near post on a Nicolas Kuhn pull-back, firing a few more efforts off target, along with a Tasos Douvikas header over and Martin Baturina strike from a tricky angle.

Cesc Fabregas made changes at the break and they stepped up a gear, Marin Pongracic preventing a Douvikas tap-in on the Mergim Vojvoda low cross.

However, Maxi Perrone mistimed his challenge on Rolando Mandragora and gave away a penalty, which Kean converted into the near top corner. It was his first Serie A goal away from home in nine months and doubled Fiorentina’s lead.

Jesus Rodriguez dribbled past two to test De Gea, then Baturina’s strike skimmed the far post from the edge of the area.

There was a mad scramble after a Como corner, culminating in the ball grazing both Jacobo Ramon’s head and the far post from five yards.

Como had penalty appeals rejected, as Jesus Rodriguez seemed to suddenly stop so Jack Harrison had to bump into the back of him, but the touchline debate resulted in Fiorentina coach Paolo Vanoli’s dismissal.

The hosts did get one back when another strong Jesus Rodriguez cross from the left was flicked on by Alvaro Morata, as Fabiano Parisi accidentally prodded into his own net trying to anticipate Ramon.

Como could smell blood and poured forward, pumping crosses into the box, and there were more penalty appeals for potential Mandragora handball, but his arms were around Jacobo Ramon and it was incidental.

The tension was sky high and got to Alvaro Morata, who received two yellow cards in quick succession for ill-tempered tussles with first Mandragora, then Marin Pongracic.

Como 1-2 Fiorentina

Fagioli 26 (F), Kean pen 54 (F), Parisi og 77 (C)

Sent off: Morata 89 (C)

14-02-2026 14:00

MatchDay 25

Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia

Como

Fiorentina

1 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

26'

Nicolò Fagioli

2nd half

Marc Oliver Kempf		49'
		54'		Moise Kean
Fabiano Parisi		77'
Jesús Rodriguez		82'
Álvaro Morata		88'
		88'		Rolando Mandragora
Álvaro Morata		89'
		90'		Luca Ranieri

Match statistic

67

Possession %

33

16

Total shots

7

3

Shots on target

3

10

Shots off target

2

3

Blocked shots

2

4

Corners

2

3

Offsides

2

13

Fouls

10

Como

Fiorentina

Starting lineups

1

Jean Butez

Goalkeeper

3

Álex Valle

Defender

46'

14

Jacobo Ramón

Defender

2

Marc Oliver Kempf

Defender

31

Mërgim Vojvoda

Defender

72'

20

Martin Baturina

Midfielder

23

Máximo Perrone

Midfielder

57'

10

Nico Paz

Midfielder

11

Anastasios Douvikas

Attacker

57'

33

Lucas Da Cunha

Attacker

19

Nicolas Kühn

Attacker

46'

43

David de Gea

Goalkeeper

2

Dodô

Defender

65

Fabiano Parisi

Defender

6

Luca Ranieri

Defender

5

Marin Pongracic

Defender

4

Marco Brescianini

Midfielder

44

Nicolò Fagioli

Midfielder

84'

8

Rolando Mandragora

Midfielder

17

Jack Harrison

Attacker

19

Manor Solomon

Attacker

20

Moise Kean

Attacker

84'

Substitutes

22

Mauro Vigorito

Goalkeeper

8

Sergi Roberto

Midfielder

44

Nikola Cavlina

Goalkeeper

34

Diego Carlos

Defender

77

Ignace Van Der Brempt

Defender

28

Ivan Smolcic

Defender

21

Noel Törnqvist

Goalkeeper

Adrian Lahdo

Midfielder

18

Alberto Moreno

Defender

46'

17

Jesús Rodriguez

Attacker

46'

7

Álvaro Morata

Attacker

57'

42

Jayden Addai

Attacker

57'

6

Maxence Caqueret

Midfielder

72'

22

Jacopo Fazzini

Midfielder

21

Robin Gosens

Midfielder

1

Luca Lezzerini

Goalkeeper

80

Giovanni Fabbian

Midfielder

53

Oliver Christensen

Goalkeeper

15

Pietro Comuzzo

Defender

29

Niccolò Fortini

Midfielder

60

Eddy Kouadio

Defender

62

Luis Balbo

Defender

91

Roberto Piccoli

Attacker

84'

27

Cher Ndour

Midfielder

84'

Luciano Spalletti is expected to reshuffle his tactics ahead of the Derby d’Italia against Inter on Saturday afternoon as Juventus will have to do without key midfielder Khephren Thuram against the Nerazzurri. Here’s who could replace the Frenchman in San Siro. 

Juventus released their squad list for the derby against Inter on Saturday morning, confirming that Thuram as well as Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik are unavailable to play. 

Thuram has featured in 23 of Juventus’s 24 league matches so far this season, has started in 20 of them and has provided one goal and two assists from those Serie A outings. That goal came in the reverse fixture against Inter at the Allianz Stadium during the first half of the season. 

Who could start for Juventus against Inter in the absence of Thuram?

With no Thuram available on Saturday evening, it is expected that Spalletti will slightly reshuffle his tactics. 

Spalletti originally deployed a 3-4-2-1 shape during his first weeks in charge of the Bianconeri, before switching to a 4-2-3-1. He reverted to the 3-4-2-1 shape for the 2-2 draw against Lazio last time out, but is likely to swap back to a four-man defence against Inter. 

According to reports from some outlets on Saturday afternoon, Spalletti is likely to deploy a midfield trio of Manuel Locatelli, Weston McKennie and Fabio Miretti. That would see Francisco Conceicao, Kenan Yildiz and Jonathan David as the starting attackers. 

Other outlets, however, suggest that Spalletti could stick with a back three, and that Teun Koopmeiners could be brought in to partner Locatelli in the midfield of a 3-4-2-1. Lloyd Kelly would come back into the team on the left side of the back three if this were to be the case.

Scott McTominay has reportedly not been able to shake off a tendon issue, so will miss Napoli’s showdown with Roma on Sunday.

It kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Sunday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

McTominay had limped off at half-time during the 3-2 victory away to Genoa last week, having scored one of his team’s decisive goals.

He was then left out of the squad for the Coppa Italia quarter-final, which saw Como eliminate Napoli on penalties after a 1-1 draw on Tuesday.

McTominay absence further limits Napoli options

It was hoped that the Scotland international and last year’s Serie A MVP would be fit enough to feature in this weekend’s clash with Roma.

However, Sky Sport Italia report the latest news from the medical staff is not reassuring, so McTominay might not even be on the bench.

It’s a blow for Antonio Conte, as Juan Jesus is also suspended, with David Neres, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne and Billy Gilmour long-term injury absentees.

At least Matteo Politano seems to be back to full fitness and able to start.

With McTominay out, Eljif Elmas should again drop into midfield, leaving room for Giovane in the front three flanking Rasmus Hojlund and Antonio Vergara.

Igor Tudor’s first interview following his confirmation as the new short-term manager of Tottenham Hotspur has already won over a disillusioned fan base.

The Croatian tactician, appointed on Saturday to steer Spurs through the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign, wasted no time in establishing a new, aggressive mental framework for a squad currently languishing in 16th place.

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Igor Tudor says ‘we want to win’ in first interview as Tottenham manager

Stepping into the high-pressure environment of North London, Tudor delivered a clear, uncompromising message that resonated with supporters tired of defensive fragility.

“We want to win,” Tudor stated during his unveiling (quotes via The Spurs Watch). “You can’t go out there aiming for a draw. We take the field to win; you don’t prepare matches to draw. My focus is clear: to bring greater consistency to our performances and compete with conviction in every match.”

??Igor Tudor:

"We want to win, you can’t go out there aiming for a draw. We take the field to win; you don’t prepare matches to draw." pic.twitter.com/YVWouUPDR4

— The Spurs Watch (@TheSpursWatch) February 14, 2026

Tudor, who has signed an interim deal until the end of the season, is tasked with halting a dismal run that has seen Spurs win only two of their last 17 league games.

His debut will be a baptism of fire: a North London derby against league leaders Arsenal next Sunday.

Stark contrast from Thomas Frank’s defeatist comments

Tudor’s front-foot rhetoric stands in sharp contrast to the tone set by his predecessor, Thomas Frank.

The Danish manager, sacked on Wednesday after just eight months in charge, frequently drew the ire of fans for what was perceived as a defeatist outlook.

During his unveiling, Frank famously told the media, “We are going to lose games,” a sentiment intended to manage expectations but one that ultimately alienated a crowd used to the “To Dare Is To Do” motto.

He said: “I promise you one thing, one thing is 100% sure, we will lose football matches.”

Frank’s weak comments along with the mention of Arsenal set the tone of his disastrous tenure at Spurs.

He failed to win over the fans from the get go and mistakes like drinking from an Arsenal branded coffee-cup did not help.

While Frank’s pragmatism worked at Brentford, his inability to inspire a “big club” mentality at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium led to the lowest points-per-game ratio (1.12) of any Spurs manager in the Premier League era.

The post Igor Tudor appears to take subtle dig at Thomas Frank in first interview as Tottenham manager appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Kasen Brown has held talks with several Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, ahead of his imminent Manchester City exit, according to The Talent Room.

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The 15-year-old defender is widely regarded as one of the most talented U16 left-backs in the country, making him one of the most sought-after youth prospects in the current market.

Kasen Brown holds talks with Premier League clubs including Man United and Leeds United

The race for Brown’s signature has intensified following the news that he will be leaving the Manchester City academy at the end of the current season.

Reports suggest that the youngster and his representatives have already engaged in discussions with a host of top-tier English clubs.

Alongside Manchester United, both Brighton & Hove Albion and Nottingham Forest are high on the list of suitors.

Brighton, known for their world-class pathway for youth players, and Forest, who have been aggressive in their recent recruitment, are both providing compelling arguments for the defender to join their ranks.

Leeds United are also firmly in the mix, as they look to build on their reputation for developing elite young talent.

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Brown’s stock rose even further this week after he received his first international call-up for the England U16s, a milestone that underscores his potential as a future star for club and country.

Could Kasen Brown join Man City’s arch-rivals Man United?

The most intriguing part of this saga is the potential move to Old Trafford.

Should Kasen Brown make the switch to Manchester United, he would follow in the footsteps of recent high-profile academy raids, such as Chido Obi-Martin and Ayden Heaven.

United are reportedly keen to capitalise on Brown’s availability as they continue to overhaul their youth system under the new leadership of INEOS.

For Brown, staying in Manchester while moving to City’s arch-rivals could offer the perfect blend of career progression and personal stability.

The post Manchester City starlet holds talks with Manchester United in surprise development appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Match Overview

The pressure is mounting in the Saudi Pro League title race after Al Hilal extended their lead to four points with a pivotal Matchday 22 victory, leaving Al Nassr with little room for error as they try to keep the championship within reach.

With Cristiano Ronaldo back to spearhead the attack, Al Nassr are counting on their firepower to deliver a statement performance, but a tricky road test against Al Fateh, who want to elevate their play at home against a Pro League’s top contenders.

Gian Piero Gasperini has given his pre-match assessment ahead of Roma’s upcoming Serie A clash against reigning champions Napoli, has provided an update on Paulo Dybala and Matias Soule, and has explained that he doesn’t agree with Antonio Conte about the congested fixture schedule: ‘I always prefer to play in cup competitions’. 

Roma currently find themselves in fifth place in the Serie A table, level on points (46) with Juventus in fourth. They will face Napoli at the Stadio Maradona on Sunday in what many have described as a ‘six pointer’ given that the Partenopei sit just three points above the Giallorossi before kick-off. 

Roma are coming in off the back of a 2-0 victory over Cagliari last time out in Serie A, while the Partenopei are looking to bounce back after being knocked out of the Coppa Italia by Como on penalties earlier this week. 

Gasperini on Napoli vs. Roma, Dybala, Soule and fixture schedule

Gasperini began his pre-match press conference with an update on two of his key attackers: “We’ll see with Soule and Dybala today. Soule’s had a more difficult week while Dybala has trained but isn’t 100%,” he said. 

Gasperini was asked about Roma’s recent ‘struggles’ in matches against direct rivals in the league. 

“It’s more than a step in mentality, they need to take a technical step as well. When something repeats over time, there’s obviously still a difference, which has lessened with our performances over the first half of the season. 

“Recently, we’ve had another excellent performance against Milan, at least we didn’t lose there.

“Compared to the beginning of the season, we’ve undoubtedly grown, even if we’re in the middle of an emergency of injuries, like other teams. It’s a problem that bothers us, we’re convinced that we’re competitive when everyone is available. We will have to find another answer to these questions against Napoli.” 

Gasperini was also asked if he thinks that Roma’s Champions League qualification depends on victories in matches like tomorrow’s against Napoli, or the one against Juventus coming up on March 1. 

He replied: “They’re important games, they’re direct clashes and they weigh heavily compared to other games, but matches are always worth three points. The Champions League ‘quota’ doesn’t change year to year. If you lose two and win all the others, nothing changes. But they are still important games in terms of our ability to overcome certain teams and feel superior.” 

Reporters suggested that Roma look and feel like a completely different team compared to the last time they faced Napoli in Serie A. 

Gasperini said: “We’ve always thought about our journey. There have been different periods this season as well. Inter has grown a lot, other teams like Juventus and Milan have as well. Napoli have had great periods, now they’re in a bit of difficulty because of injuries, like us. 

“The fact is that after 24 games, we’re up there with all the others. There are also Como and Atalanta who are climbing strongly. 

“That’s how it is in the league. As far as I’m concerned, results are won point by point. You never achieve your goals days in advance. We have to fight until the very end.” 

Gasperini was asked if he is relieved that Roma qualified directly for the Europa League round of 16, and therefore avoid an extra two matches in the play-off rounds. 

He said: “I’m not concerned by this. When we were playing every three days in October and November, the treatment room was empty and the squad was fine. Now we’ve got a lot of problems in attack. Before, we had them all in defence. That is annoying. 

“I don’t think it’s connected to the number of games. When we played a lot, we were all fine. It’s random. It’s difficult to explain three or four injuries happening in the same department, especially some very specific injuries that we have right now. 

“The only one who had a muscular strain is Kone, but both he and Hermoso, who’s had a sensational blow to his foot, should return next week.” 

Could January signing Bryan Zaragoza be primed to make his full Roma debut at the weekend? 

“He’s definitely settling in better as time goes by. He’s been here for 16 days and he’s improving in terms of his condition and knowledge. He still needs a bit of time to break in, but he will do that by playing and training.” 

Gasperini was also asked if he agrees with Napoli head coach Antonio Conte about the congested fixture schedule. 

He said: “I don’t want to make any controversies. I respect everyone’s opinions. From my experience, I can tell you that playing in the cup has helped me. There is of course a risk of injuries. The vast majority of injuries occur in matches and almost never in training, so that is a risk. 

“Personally, however, it has helped me, especially playing abroad. The players are confronted with other ways of playing and I would always prefer to play in cup competitions, the Champions League even more so.” 

Legendary former Inter and Italy goalkeeper Walter Zenga has recommended three Italian goalkeepers the Nerazzurri should turn to after Yann Sommer leaves the club, which could potentially be at the end of the current season. 

Sommer has spent the last two-and-a-half seasons in San Siro. In that time, he has won a Serie A title, is on his way to a second and also appeared in a Champions League final in 2024-25. 

The Switzerland international is now 37 years of age and is into the final year of his contract, which is currently set to expire on June 30, 2026. 

Zenga: Who should replace Sommer in goal for Inter?

Heading into the Derby d’Italia between Inter and Juventus in Serie A on Saturday evening, Zenga gave an in-depth interview to La Gazzetta dello Sport, addressing a number of topics including Inter’s future options between the sticks. 

Zenga believes that Sommer has been an excellent servant for the Nerazzurri since 2023, despite criticism of some of his more recent performances in 2025-26. 

“Yann is a performance player, a guarantee. He has experience and quality to spare,” Zenga told La Gazzetta dello Sport. He believes that Sommer’s “self-control” is his best quality: “Nothing scares him.” 

And when asked who he thinks should replace Sommer once he leaves Inter, likely at the end of the season, Zenga said: “An Italian goalkeeper. (Guglielmo) Vicario and (Marco) Carnesecchi would be on the front row, and then (Elia) Caprile.”

Reports suggest that Atalanta star Charles De Ketelaere will be sidelined for around four to five weeks after undergoing surgery on his knee earlier this week. 

Atalanta have recently confirmed that De Ketelaere has had a procedure carried out to repair damaged meniscus cartilage in his knee. 

The Belgium international was originally included in the starting line-up for Atalanta’s eventual 2-1 victory over Cremonese in Serie A on Monday evening, but felt something in his knee during the warm-up and was forced to drop out of Rafaelle Palladino’s side at the last minute. He was replaced by Lazar Samardzic. 

Now expected to miss around a month of action, Atalanta are likely to be without De Ketelaere for a tough run of fixtures, beginning with Lazio in Serie A on Saturday, a Champions League play-off double against Borussia Dortmund over the next two weeks, and further league matches against Napoli, Sassuolo, Udinese and potentially Inter as well. 

What Atalanta said about De Ketelaere operation 

“Atalanta BC announces that Charles De Ketelaere has undergone arthroscopy of his right knee for selective internal meniscectomy,” read a statement on the club website. 

“The surgery, performed by Professor Ezio Adriani at the Agostino Gemelli University Hospital Foundation IRCCS in Rome, was perfectly successful.

“The player will immediately begin the rehabilitation program.”

Sean Dyche has emerged as a surprise contender for the vacant managerial role at Leicester City, following his dismissal from Nottingham Forest earlier this week.

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The veteran manager was relieved of his duties at the City Ground after a 114-day tenure, becoming the third casualty of Forest’s turbulent Premier League campaign.

According to Football Insider, the Foxes’ hierarchy are now considering the 54-year-old as an option to steady the ship at the King Power Stadium.

Dyche is reportedly a close friend of Leicester’s Director of Football, Jon Rudkin, and his sudden availability has immediately reshuffled the club’s shortlist, which also features Ralph Hasenhüttl and Gary Rowett.

Enzo Maresca has also been linked with a dream return to Leicester after leaving Chelsea.

Leicester in danger of back-to-back relegation after docked points

The urgency of the appointment cannot be overstated. Leicester City currently finds itself in a precarious 20th position in the Championship, sitting just three points above the relegation zone.

Their situation was severely worsened last week when the Premier League confirmed an immediate six-point deduction for a breach of PSR during the 2023/24 season.

Under interim manager Andy King, who took over after Martí Cifuentes was sacked on January 25, results have failed to improve.

The Foxes are winless in their last six outings and face the very real, terrifying prospect of back-to-back relegations.

With the fan base growing increasingly restless, the board is under immense pressure to appoint a manager capable of saving them from dropping into the third tier of English football.

Sean Dyche has a history of saving clubs from relegation

While Dyche’s pragmatic style has often drawn criticism, his track record as a survival specialist makes him an attractive prospect for a club in crisis.

He famously kept Burnley in the Premier League for several years against the odds and managed a similar feat with Everton.

Despite his short-lived stay at Nottingham Forest, he left the club sitting 17th in the Premier League, three points clear of the drop.

For a Leicester side currently shooting themselves in the foot, Dyche’s trademark discipline and defensive organization may be exactly what is required in the fight to survival.

The post Sean Dyche already linked with surprise return to management just days after sack – report appeared first on CaughtOffside.

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Como look to Anastasios Douvikas while Moise Kean starts in the Fiorentina attack in Saturday’s opening Serie A match.

It kicks off at 15:00 CET (14:00 GMT) at the Stadio Sinigaglia.

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

Edoardo Goldaniga and Assane Diao are unavailable for Como, while Fiorentina have travelled up north without Tariq Lamptey, Albert Gudmundsson and Daniele Rugani.

Como are fighting for a European spot and even hope to qualify for the Champions League, being five points below Roma and Juventus with a game in hand.

The Viola, on the other hand, are still stuck in the relegation zone with 18 points, three below safety.

The Tuscans pick Kean up front and with Gudmundsson injured, Jack Harrison starts as a left winger while Fabiano Parisi plays as left-back.

Como look to Douvikas in attack with Nico Paz, Martin Baturina and Nicolas Kuhn behind the Greece international.

Official Como vs. Fiorentina line-ups

Como: Butez; Vojvoda, Ramon, Kempf, Valle; Perrone, Da Cunha; Kuhn, Nico Paz, Baturina; Douvikas

Fiorentina: De Gea; Dodo, Pongracic, Ranieri, Parisi; Fagioli; Harrison, Mandragora, Brescianini, Solomon; Kean

14-02-2026 14:00

MatchDay 25

Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia

Como

Fiorentina

1 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

26'

Nicolò Fagioli

2nd half

Marc Oliver Kempf		49'
		54'		Moise Kean
Fabiano Parisi		77'
Jesús Rodriguez		82'
Álvaro Morata		88'
		88'		Rolando Mandragora
Álvaro Morata		89'
		90'		Luca Ranieri

Match statistic

67

Possession %

33

16

Total shots

7

3

Shots on target

3

10

Shots off target

2

3

Blocked shots

2

4

Corners

2

3

Offsides

2

13

Fouls

10

Como

Fiorentina

Starting lineups

1

Jean Butez

Goalkeeper

3

Álex Valle

Defender

46'

14

Jacobo Ramón

Defender

2

Marc Oliver Kempf

Defender

31

Mërgim Vojvoda

Defender

72'

20

Martin Baturina

Midfielder

23

Máximo Perrone

Midfielder

57'

10

Nico Paz

Midfielder

11

Anastasios Douvikas

Attacker

57'

33

Lucas Da Cunha

Attacker

19

Nicolas Kühn

Attacker

46'

43

David de Gea

Goalkeeper

2

Dodô

Defender

65

Fabiano Parisi

Defender

6

Luca Ranieri

Defender

5

Marin Pongracic

Defender

4

Marco Brescianini

Midfielder

44

Nicolò Fagioli

Midfielder

84'

8

Rolando Mandragora

Midfielder

17

Jack Harrison

Attacker

19

Manor Solomon

Attacker

20

Moise Kean

Attacker

84'

Substitutes

22

Mauro Vigorito

Goalkeeper

8

Sergi Roberto

Midfielder

44

Nikola Cavlina

Goalkeeper

34

Diego Carlos

Defender

77

Ignace Van Der Brempt

Defender

28

Ivan Smolcic

Defender

21

Noel Törnqvist

Goalkeeper

Adrian Lahdo

Midfielder

18

Alberto Moreno

Defender

46'

17

Jesús Rodriguez

Attacker

46'

7

Álvaro Morata

Attacker

57'

42

Jayden Addai

Attacker

57'

6

Maxence Caqueret

Midfielder

72'

22

Jacopo Fazzini

Midfielder

21

Robin Gosens

Midfielder

1

Luca Lezzerini

Goalkeeper

80

Giovanni Fabbian

Midfielder

53

Oliver Christensen

Goalkeeper

15

Pietro Comuzzo

Defender

29

Niccolò Fortini

Midfielder

60

Eddy Kouadio

Defender

62

Luis Balbo

Defender

91

Roberto Piccoli

Attacker

84'

27

Cher Ndour

Midfielder

84'