Stick with us for the live coverage of Orlando City and Inter Miami, who are clashing in the first edition of the Florida Derby in the 2026 MLS season.
Orlando City will host Inter Miami at Inter&Co Stadium for the first Florida Derby of the 2026 MLS season on Sunday. Stay tuned to our live coverage of the game to not miss a single moment of the action.
This edition of the Florida Derby carries added weight for both sides as they look to bounce back after disappointing season openers. Orlando kicked off the campaign with a 2-1 home defeat in which they were largely dominated by the New York Red Bulls, while Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami suffered a sobering 3-0 loss to Son Heung-min’s LAFC on the road.
Belize U20 will battle El Salvador U20 on Matchday 4 of the 2026 CONCACAF U20 Championship group stage. Viewers across the United States can watch every minute live, with full kickoff times and broadcast information provided here for both TV coverage and streaming options.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Belize U20 vs El Salvador U20 on US television and via legal streaming:
Fresh off a commanding 3-0 win over French Guiana, El Salvador U20 look to keep their strong start going as they face Belize U20 in a key CONCACAF youth showdown. The tournament has long been a stage for the region’s future stars, and El Salvador’s young core is eager to build momentum as part of the country’s broader World Cup ambitions at the senior level.
Belize, meanwhile, sees this generation as a chance to spark long-term growth for its national program, setting up a matchup filled with motivation on both sides. With rising talent and regional pride on display, this is one you won’t want to miss.
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With Lionel Messi expected to be one of the starters, Orlando City and Inter Miami will be clashing for Matchday 2 of the 2026 MLS.
Orlando City host Inter Miami for Matchday 2 of the 2026 Major League Soccer season Sunday at Exploria Stadium. With the first Florida derby of the campaign on tap, fans are eager to see Lionel Messi back in action.
The Lions enter the match after a disappointing home opener against the New York Red Bulls, a 2-1 result in which the visitors dictated play with 13 shots on target, forcing goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau into a standout performance that prevented a heavier defeat. Following the departures of Alex Freeman and Rodrigo Schlegel, Orlando are counting on young Brazilians and newcomers Tiago, Luis Otávio, and Iago Teodoro to emerge as key contributors.
On the other side, Inter Miami head into their second official match of the season after a humbling 3-0 road loss to Los Angeles FC in a record-setting MLS clash. The Herons bounced back with a win Thursday against Independiente del Valle and will aim to carry that momentum into a game with points at stake.
Is Lionel Messi playing vs. Orlando City?
Lionel Messi is expected to start Sunday’s Florida derby. The Argentine star featured in the second half of Thursday’s friendly against Independiente del Valle where he scored from the penalty spot, and after dealing with an injury prior to the season, completed Saturday’s training session and is available for selection.
Lionel Messi of Inter Miami scoring a penalty against Independiente del Valle.
Interestingly, this will mark his fifth meeting with Orlando City but only his third in MLS play. Messi missed one Florida derby in each of 2023, 2024, and 2025, appearing in just two league matches against the Lions, where he has split results with one win and one loss and will look to tilt that record in his favor.
Projected lineups for Orlando City and Inter Miami
Orlando City’s projected lineup (4-2-3-1): Maxime Crepeau; Griffin Dorsey, David Brekalo, Nolan Miller, Adrian Marin; Braian Ojeda, Colin Guske; Marco Pasalic, Martin Ojeda, Tiago Souza; Duncan McGuire. Head coach: Oscar Pareja.
Inter Miami’s projected lineup (4-2-3-1): Dayne St. Clair; Facundo Mura, Maxi Falcon, Micael, Noah Allen; Rodrigo de Paul, David Ayala; Tadeo Allende, Lionel Messi, Telasco Segovia; German Berterame. Head coach: Javier Mascherano.
With only a few months left before the 2026 World Cup begins, Neymar Jr. seems somewhat distant from Brazil’s final call-up before the tournament. Amid doubts about his presence, Rodrygo Goes offered unconditional support for the 34-year-old veteran, delivering strong statements.
After returning to the field with Santos FC following his recovery, Neymar Jr. has managed to regain clear physical sensations, promising a radical change after his meniscus surgery. Even so, the veteran is reportedly not expected to be called up by Carlo Ancelotti for Brazil’s final matches before the 2026 World Cup. In response, Rodrygo Goes gave a strong answer when asked whether he believes the 34-year-old star should be in the anticipated tournament.
“It’s logical. For me, in my opinion, there’s not even a discussion. But we know, of course, he needs to be well, he has to be preparing, he is returning from knee surgery. It won’t have the same grace to win without him, so we need him,” Rodrygo said, as reported by ESPN Deportes. With these statements, the 25-year-old star may pressure Carlo Ancelotti to call up the veteran star after a significant time, gaining momentum for the anticipated tournament.
Unlike in previous years, Neymar Jr. has transitioned from a left winger to an attacking midfielder. In this new role, he competes with Rodrygo, Raphinha, and Lucas Paquetá. Despite this competition, the young star has expressed support for the veteran, emphasizing that Neymar’s experience could be crucial at the 2026 World Cup. In case he stays injury-free, he could push Brazil coach Ancelotti for a spot in the tournament.
With the constant injuries of recent years, Neymar’s possible return to Brazil may not mean a scoring boost. Although he is the national team’s all-time top scorer, he has already transformed into an attacking midfielder, who is key in creating space for his teammates. With his experience and on-field impact, Estêvão, Raphinha, Rodrygo, and Vinícius Jr. could benefit greatly, as their scoring output could increase considerably.
Neymar’s last appearance for Brazil was in October 2023.
Neymar flaunts his physical readiness at Santos amid Brazil snub buzz
Following his meniscus surgery, Neymar Jr. has already made a successful return with Santos, playing three consecutive games: 2 in the Campeonato Paulista and 1 in the Brasileirao. Even though he failed to score in his first two games, he scored an important brace against Vasco Da Gama. Despite this, Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly looking to leave him out of Brazil’s next squad, prompting the 34-year-old to showcase his physical condition in an Instagram story.
Neymar ainda não está 100% fisicamente, mas esses dados aqui trazem um cenário otimista em relação ao estado físico dele.
Não estou dizendo que ele fez uma grande partida hoje – pelo contrário. Mas ver ele na parte de cima desses dados que englobam sua saúde física é animador! pic.twitter.com/xx5UzIS90i
Over the past few months, Ancelotti has made it clear that Neymar’s talent is a difference-maker, so he has reportedly set his physical recovery as the only condition.Because of this, the veteran states that he ranks among the best-rated players at Santos, making it clear that if he is left out, it would not be due to a lack of full fitness. In addition, the 34-year-old aims to improve more and more, ensuring that his physical condition is at its peak heading into June.
Brazil national team stars Rodrygo Goes and Neymar Jr.
The Giallorossi have struggled to win the ‘big’ games in Serie A this season, but thought that curse had been broken when leading 3-1 through Wesley, Evan Ndicka and Donyell Malen.
However, they conceded twice in the final 12 minutes plus stoppages, both from crosses knocked on to the back post, as Jeremie Boga and Federico Gatti allowed Juventus to snatch a point.
Gasperini sees where it went wrong for Roma
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma, and Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, hug prior to the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“We were in the right positions, but our season is full of these situations in the final minutes, where teams like Juve, Milan, Inter and Napoli manage to get games back on track in the final minutes or even stoppages.
“They throw players forward who are good in the air and on set plays, they picked up a lot of points in these situations. They deserve congratulations for that, but we also could’ve done better, as our defending was too static, when we should’ve been aggressive.”
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Lorenzo Pellegrini of AS Roma celebrates scoring their second goal with team mates during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Yet again, Roma play very well against the top teams, but never quite manage to get a result over the line, despite scoring three goals this time.
“Defending a little deeper is not a bad thing when you have a player like Malen, as that is how he scored the third goal. We should’ve been more physical, so taking Cristante off robbed us of our best player in the air.
“The two goals were very similar, long balls pumped into the box and flicked on to the back post, where we were too passive. That is what we must reproach ourselves for, but not seeking anything else.”
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Federico Gatti of Juventus scores their third goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
The free kick given away by Neil El Aynaoui on Pierre Kalulu for the equaliser was also avoidable, as Roma have conceded nine of their 19 goals from dead-ball situations this season.
“That’s true, but don’t forget we scored on a corner too. The problem is that a set play was the only way Juve were going to be dangerous, as even when we defended a little deeper, they rarely created chances.”
This result means Roma slide back down to fourth place, now two points behind Napoli, and Como climb into fifth with only a three-point gap from the Giallorossi.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
With Inter so far out in front, the fight for those Champions League qualifying spots looks as if it will go down to the wire.
“Obviously, a win here would’ve put us seven points clear of Juventus and represented a big step forward, but we are still up there,” added Gasperini.
“We are in the race, we put in an extraordinary performance, and this result should not knock us down.”
It was a dramatic evening at the Stadio Olimpico, as the Giallorossi had surged into a 3-1 lead with spectacular goals from Wesley, Evan Ndicka and Donyell Malen.
However, after the Francisco Conceicao volley into the top corner, Juve completed the comeback in stoppages with substitutes Jeremie Boga and Federico Gatti for the 3-3 thriller.
Conceicao hit the goal of the game
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Francisco Conceicao of Juventus battles for possession with Niccolo Pisilli of AS Roma and Wesley of AS Roma during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“It was a good goal, but I am much happier with what we did after going 3-1 down, as it was much more difficult then. The team worked really hard, and I feel if any team deserved to win it, then it was us, as we had some really clear chances,” Conceicao told DAZN Italia.
It was only the Portuguese talent’s fourth goal of the season in 32 competitive games, and he hadn’t found the net since the last meeting with Roma in December.
WHAT A STRIKE FRANCISCO CONCEIÇÃO
Juventus are back in the game, and it's a screamer from the Portuguese winger
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 1, 2026
“My brothers sent me the video of the goal as soon as I got into the changing room, they said well done,” revealed Conceicao.
“I like to take risks, I give it a go, as I had some opportunities to score goals before this that I didn’t take, but fortunately today the goal helped the team. That is the most important thing.
“In order to reach the next level, I certainly need to score more goals. I am the first to acknowledge that, I am working hard on it in training, I know that playing for Juve, you need to be more effective in front of goal. I am the first to be upset when I don’t score.”
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Niccolo Pisilli of AS Roma and Francisco Conceicao of Juventus battle for possession during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Luciano Spalletti has also been working with Conceicao on how he can influence the game even when the ball isn’t at his feet.
“I have to be the first defender, start the press, go into challenges. Spalletti asks me to play for the team, tells me my quality will emerge eventually if I do that.”
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Manu Kone of AS Roma and Francisco Conceicao of Juventus battle for possession during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
This result means Roma slip down to fourth place and Juventus to sixth, leapfrogged by Como, but the fight for Champions League qualification has tightened up yet again.
There are now only eight points separating five teams from third to seventh, as Napoli, Roma, Como, Juventus and Atalanta are in the thick of battle.
Italian goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario has been the topic of much criticism today after a dismal display in Tottenham Hotspur’s 2-1 defeat to Fulham in the Premier League.
The former Empoli shot-stopper made a series of errors in his distribution which attracted viral attention on social media.
Spurs fans did not hold back in their criticism of the Italian, with some even going so far as to ask: ‘Is Vicario the worst number one we’ve had in the modern era?’
LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 29: Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham Hotspur is challenged by Raul Jimenez of Fulham during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on November 29, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
One fan replied ‘He makes Heurelho Gomes look like Pat Jennings,’ in reference to the club’s former Brazilian goalkeeper and the legendary Northern Irish number one.
Spurs fans clear in criticism of Italian goalkeeper Vicario
Others feel like even his reliable qualities are letting him down: ‘The one redeemable part about Vicario used to be his shot stopping which isn’t that great anymore.’
His poor distribution did not go unnoticed, with some fans bringing up the stats behind his woeful afternoon in London.
LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 29: Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham Hotspur reacts after failing to make a save against Harry Wilson of Fulham (not pictured) during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on November 29, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
I think Kinsky is cheeks but I’m finally at the point where Vicario needs dropping. He already needs selling but I acc can’t stand seeing him play for us atm. In fact, we should just play Austin at this point for a moment
The first forty minutes were largely uneventful before Wesley broke the deadlock in the 39th minute. The goals came thick and fast in the second half, with Francisco Conceicao scoring a lovely long range goal before Roma scored twice in the next twenty minutes.
Roma looked home and dry before two goals for the visitors in the last 15 minutes sealed the draw.
Football Italia’s Man of the Match was Roma midfielder Niccolo Pisilli, for his assist and dominant performance in the middle of the park.
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Niccolo Pisilli of AS Roma celebrates after scoring the team’s third goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Cremonese at Stadio Olimpico on February 22, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Best Roma player: Niccolo Pisilli – The 21-year-old put in a mature performance in midfield tonight, controlling much of the home side’s tempo. Picked up an assist and worked hard both offensively and defensively.
Lowest Roma rating: Bryan Cristante – Lacklustre before his substitution: was all over the pitch but did not really have any impact. His passes were poor and he struggled defensively too.
Coach: Gian Piero Gasperini 6.5 – A lack of substitutes before it was too late disrupted Roma’s rhythm, especially after such a strong display throughout the ninety. The coach did well but failed to react and allowed Juventus back into the match.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Francisco Conceicao of Juventus celebrates their first goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Best Juventus player: Jeremie Boga – Came off the bench to score, keeping up his good start to life in Bianconeri colours. Couldn’t help snatch a late equaliser but looked dangerous in his half an hour on the pitch.
Lowest Juventus rating: Lloyd Kelly – Beaten far too easily, far too often. Looked out of his depth on more than one occasion, but was sold by Wesley’s deft touch for the opener.
Coach: Luciano Spalletti 7 – Saved by his substitutions, Spalletti deserves credit for succeeding where his counterpart failed. His set-up struggled in the first half but the coach reacted well to help inspire his side’s comeback.
Roma had been in control at 3-1 with spectacular Wesley and Donyell Malen goals, only to let Juventus catch them at 3-3 in stoppages for a thrilling comeback.
This was a pure showdown for the top four, as the Giallorossi welcomed back Paulo Dybala and Stephan El Shaarawy, but were still missing Matias Soulé, Mario Hermoso, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson. Juve were in crisis after one draw in five competitive games, then on Wednesday beat Galatasaray 3-2 in extra time, only to be eliminated from the Champions League 7-5 on aggregate. Manuel Locatelli sat out a ban, with Dusan Vlahovic, Emil Holm and Arek Milik out, but Pierre Kalulu and Bremer returned.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: General view inside the stadium as players of both side’s line up prior to the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
There was a double chance in the third minute, as Niccolò Pisilli intercepted a wayward pass out from the back and forced a tricky Mattia Perin save, then Lorenzo Pellegrini fired the rebound over.
Kenan Yildiz and Francisco Conceicao fired over from promising positions, but Perin showed brave goalkeeping when parrying a Donyell Malen effort from point-blank range with his face on the Gianluca Mancini knock-down.
Bryan Cristante charged down a Conceicao curler after good work from Yildiz, while Weston McKennie’s glancing header was inches wide of the far post on a Kalulu cross.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Wesley of AS Roma celebrates scoring their first goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Roma took the lead when Pisilli won a tackle in midfield and threaded through for Wesley, who cut inside to bend a fantastic right-foot finish into the far top corner from the edge of the area, as Perin could only graze his fingertips to it.
What a strike from Wesley Franca He cuts inside and curls beautifully into the far corner to give Roma the lead over Juventus!
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 1, 2026
David fired over from the edge of the area, but within moments of the restart it was 1-1 with another sensational strike. A Teun Koopmeiners free kick was cleared to the edge of the box, where Bremer laid it off for Francisco Conceicao’s ferocious left-foot half-volley into the far top corner.
WHAT A STRIKE FRANCISCO CONCEIÇÃO
Juventus are back in the game, and it's a screamer from the Portuguese winger
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 1, 2026
Yildiz drilled wide, but Roma restored their advantage when a Lorenzo Pellegrini corner was taken short, the captain’s cross went over Mancini, but found Evan Ndicka to volley in from six yards. It was the second Serie A game in a row on target for the defender.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Lorenzo Pellegrini of AS Roma celebrates scoring their second goal with team mates during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
The Giallorossi added another when Malen sprung the offside trap on the Manu Kone through ball and dinked the finish over the on-rushing Perin with the outside of the right boot.
Donyell Malen is on fire
Another Serie A goal for the on-loan Aston Villa forward gives Roma a 3-1 lead over Juventus!
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 1, 2026
Svilar was right behind a deflected Koopmeiners strike, but it still wasn’t over, as the Edon Zhegrova cross from the right was flicked on for Jeremie Boga to volley at the back post.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Jeremie Boga of Juventus scores their second goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Boga’s cross was deflected just over by Ndicka, but Juventus completed the epic comeback from 3-1 down to 3-3 in stoppages. McKennie nodded on the free kick, which grazed Ndicka’s arm, landing kindly for substitute Federico Gatti to fire in from close range.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Federico Gatti of Juventus scores their third goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
This is a showdown for a top four slot and the importance of the fixture has been reflected in the sheer quality of the goals.
Wesley had already curled a sensational effort into the far top corner to give Roma the lead, but Francisco Conceicao responded with sheer power from a similar position after the restart.
Conceicao turns on the style for Juventus
WHAT A STRIKE FRANCISCO CONCEIÇÃO
Juventus are back in the game, and it's a screamer from the Portuguese winger
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 1, 2026
A Teun Koopmeiners free kick was cleared to the edge of the box, where Gleison Bremer laid it off for the Portuguese winger, who let it bounce and smashed the strike with his left foot.
The 23-year-old is not known for his prowess in finding the net, as this was only his fourth goal of the season in 32 competitive matches.
Bizarrely, the last goal was also against Roma, during a 2-1 win in Turin on December 20.
Ruben Amorim’s former right-hand man, Adelio Candido, has lifted the lid on the coaching staff’s difficult tenure at Old Trafford, suggesting that the Manchester United squad failed to fully embrace or implement their tactical vision.
Following their departure from the club, Candido’s reflections offer a pointed look at the internal friction that ultimately hindered the Portuguese management team’s project in the Premier League.
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Man United players did not fully implement Ruben Amorim’s ideas
(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Speaking to Portuguese outlet Abola, Candido reflected on the whirlwind experience of managing one of the world’s biggest clubs.
While he spoke fondly of the environment surrounding the club, his critique of the tactical execution on the pitch was telling.
“Experience is always experience, whether the outcome is good or bad, we always come away with learning,
“In Manchester, I really liked the city and the way the fans experience football, more focused on the project than on the immediate result.”
However, the coach did not hide his frustration regarding the players’ transition to their specific style of play.
“What I liked least was, without a doubt, feeling that our ideas weren’t fully implemented.”
The comments suggest a possible disconnect between the dugout and the dressing room, with the coaching staff feeling that their philosophy never truly took root among the playing staff.
Ruben Amorim’s nightmare time at Man United
Amorim arrived at Manchester United with a reputation as one of Europe’s most elite young tactical minds, but his time in England quickly spiraled into a professional nightmare.
Despite flashes of promise, inconsistent results and a lack of defensive cohesion plagued his reign.
Played
Won
Drawn
Lost
Points Per Game
63
25
15
23
1.43
The project mentioned by Candido was frequently undermined by high-profile individual errors and a perceived lack of intensity from senior figures in the squad.
Candido’s latest remarks confirm that while the fans remained patient, the resistance or inability to execute the ideas on the training ground was the fatal flaw in Amorim’s Manchester United chapter.
After Vinícius Jr.’s complaint against Gianluca Prestianni, José Mourinho has been the subject of strong criticism for his statements toward the Brazilian. However, the Portuguese coach has decided to double down on his remarks, criticizing UEFA and warning his Argentine player.
Although the Champions League playoffs between Real Madrid and Benfica have already come to an end, Vinícius Jr.’s complaint against Gianluca Prestianni for racism keeps everything that happened in this match very active. After the game, José Mourinho was heavily criticized for his words toward the Brazilian, but he decided to reinforce his statement. With this, the Portuguese coach sends a clear criticism to UEFA and a warning to his Argentine player.
“If one of my players did not respect these principles, which are mine and Benfica’s, that player’s career with a coach named José Mourinho and at a club called SL Benfica will come to an end. I’m not a lawyer, but I’m not ignorant either; the presumption of innocence is a right. If the player is indeed guilty, I will never look at him the same way again and that will be the end with me, but I have to put a lot of ‘ifs’ before that,” Mourinho said, reported by DAZN.
José Mourinho has decided to maintain his stance, defending Prestianni’s innocence until UEFA proves otherwise. While this position should not be controversial, he has been heavily criticized for not supporting Vinícius Junior. However, the Portuguese coach only sought to remain completely neutral, making it clear that the governing body will determine whether racist acts occurred or not, keeping him far from being a racist person, as he was accused.
Throughout his career, Mourinho has always stayed away from racist accusations. Even Chelsea legend Didier Drogba decided to support the Portuguese coach, recalling his successful history with African players such as him, Samuel Eto’o, John Obi Mikel, Michael Essien, among many others. In addition, he has acknowledged that whenever he travels to African countries he receives a lot of love, as players like Drogba even call him “Dad” as a term of affection.
Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica, speaks to Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid.
Prestianni could not only end his Benfica career but face UEFA ban
Following his successful tenure at Vélez Sarsfield, Gianluca Prestianni arrived at SL Benfica as one of Argentina’s biggest prospects. After paying €9 million for his transfer, he managed to stand out at the Portuguese club, becoming a starter under José Mourinho. However, Vinícius Jr.’s complaint of racial acts could end his career at the club, as the coach warned. This might not end there, as he could also face a severe sanction from UEFA.
If found guilty of racial discrimination against Vinícius Jr., Prestianni could face a sanction starting from a 10-match suspension up to being ruled out for a determined period, according to Article 14 of the UEFA Disciplinary Code. SL Benfica could even have justification to terminate his contract, leaving him in limbo. With this, the Argentine could struggle to find a new club in Europe, halting his progress.
Despite this, UEFA does not have an easy task proving Gianluca’s guilt in acts of racism. Without audio or video evidence, they must conduct an investigation based on the players’ statements. However, the recorded video shows that there were no players actually near Prestianni and Vinicius at the time, complicating any investigation. If found innocent, the Argentine is reportedly planning to sue the Brazilian for defamation.
Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica, is shown a red card by referee Francois Letexier during the UEFA Champions League.
After being subbed last Saudi Pro League game due to an injury, Al Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo made a key decision to assess his fitness.
Cristiano Ronaldo raised concerns during Al Nassr’s latest Saudi Pro League match against Al Fayha after the Portuguese star was unable to finish the game and was substituted following what appeared to be an injury. With concern surrounding the veteran forward, he has reportedly made a key decision to further evaluate the issue.
However, the most worrying moment came late in the second half, when Ronaldo was seen limping with apparent muscle discomfort, prompting head coach Jorge Jesus to substitute him in the 81st minute. Sitting on the bench, the striker was examined by medical staff, who applied ice to his right leg. Although he later appeared in the mixed zone signing autographs and walking unassisted, concern among Al Nassr fans remained.
During the post-match press conference, Jesus addressed Ronaldo’s condition and sought to ease fears. “Ronaldo felt some muscle fatigue. After we went up 2-1, I didn’t want to take any risks, so I subbed him out. The medical department is going to evaluate his condition, but what he felt is nothing out of the ordinary—nothing serious or anything that will keep him sidelined for long. It was just muscle soreness,” Jorge Jesus said.
According to Saudi outlet Al Riyadiyah, Cristiano Ronaldo will undergo an MRI on Monday in a specialized medical center. Initial tests determined what was already suspected, that the Portuguese was suffering a discomfort on his right hamstring, proving to be a little bit more worrying than just a muscle fatigue.
The purpose of the scan is to determine the true severity of the injury and establish a recovery timeline so the club can plan accordingly around its star player. The results will be significant not only for the SPL title race, but also with the March international window approaching for the Portugal national team.
Following the Asian Football Confederation’s decision to postpone upcoming AFC Champions League quarterfinal matches, Al Nassr’s scheduled game Wednesday against Al Wasl will not be played. As a result, Jesus opted to give his squad a rest day Sunday before returning to training.
As for a recovery timeline, it will depend entirely on the diagnosis. Research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine indicates Grade I muscle strains typically require one to three weeks of recovery, a timeframe that could affect Ronaldo’s fitness for Portugal’s upcoming matches against Mexico and the United States men’s national team.
Orlando City SC will host Inter Miami CF in a 2026 Major League Soccer regular-season clash. Here’s everything you need to know about this matchup, including the date, venue, kickoff time, and how to watch all the action live across the United States.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Orlando City SC vs Inter Miami on US television and via legal streaming:
MLSheadlines this weekend with one of its most anticipated rivalry clashes as Inter Miamimeet Orlando City SC in the latest installment of the Miami Derby. Both sides enter the matchup desperate to steady the ship after rough starts to the campaign.
Orlando are coming off a setback against the New York Red Bulls, while Miami endured an even tougher outing, falling 3-0 to Los Angeles FC. With pride and momentum on the line, Orlandoare chasing their first victory of the tournament, while Lionel Messi and Miami are under pressure to respond and reignite their season.
Details on how to watch
MLS Season Pass is the new home for Major League Soccer – where you can watch Orlando City SC vs Inter Miami and every MLS game. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, Apple TV, smartphone, tablet, Roku, and other smart streaming devices.
MLS Season Pass is part of a 10-year rights deal with Apple, MLS Season Pass is a service direct from the league available through Apple TV that will stream every MLS game – including MLS Cup Playoffs and Leagues Cup – with no blackouts.
The service also features MLS NEXT Pro (MLS 3rd division reserve league) and MLS NEXT games (youth development league), as well as exclusive team and league content available nowhere else.
MLS Season Pass is available via the Apple TV app on all Apple iOS devices, Mac, PC, Amazon Fire TV and Fire Stick, Android TV, Google TV, LG smart TVs, Panasonic smart TVs, Playstation 4 & 5, Roku streaming devices and smart TVs, Samsung smart TVs, Sony smart TVs, Vizio smart TVs, and Xbox One, One S, Series X and Series S. In addition, you can AirPlay or cast from your phone or computer to any compatible screen.
If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.
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Brazilian wing-back Wesley gave Roma the lead in their Serie A clash against Juventus this evening, with a lovely effort from the edge of the box that curled into the far corner.
The Brazilian broke the deadlock, giving Gian Piero Gasperini’s side the lead headed into the half-time interval.
Wesley picked up the ball on the left hand side, before cutting inside neatly and taking his attempt on goal.
There was a brief moment after the goal where the Giallorossi were celebrating their goal and Juventus coach Spalletti came on to the pitch to give instructions to one of his players.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Wesley celebrates scoring their first goal during the Serie A match at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Roma defender N’Dicka initially reacted angrily towards Spalletti’s intrusion before soon after apologising.
Watch: Wesley gives Roma the lead against Juventus
What a strike from Wesley Franca He cuts inside and curls beautifully into the far corner to give Roma the lead over Juventus!
Maurizio Sarri made no attempt to sugarcoat what he witnessed in his side’s 2-0 defeat to Torino, delivering a blunt and self-critical assessment of a Lazio performance he described as flat, joyless and simply lacking the basic energy required to compete.
“As for energy, we were inferior to our opponents,” he said plainly. “We never won a loose ball. The absurd thing is that we had five chances on goal and they had four, so creating opportunities was not the issue. The problem was elsewhere.”
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 1: Roberto D’Aversa, Manager of Torino FC and Maurizio Sarri, Manager of SS Lazio look on from the sidelines during the Serie A match between Torino FC and SS Lazio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on March 1, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Chris Ricco/Getty Images)
That problem, in Sarri’s view, was a collective failure of mental preparation that he admitted he had seen coming.
“Before the game there were clear warning signs, we got the recruitment of mental energy wrong,” he said, a candid acknowledgement that his side simply were not ready to face a Torino team galvanised by a change of manager.
“This is a squad that has always been present, even at Cagliari. Today was different, a sad team without energy. When you’re not winning loose balls, talking about the formation is pointless.”
Torino 2-0 Lazio – Sarri: ‘We need to dig deep for motivation’
Asked whether he was more concerned about his attack or defence, Sarri’s answer was telling. Five chances created suggested the forward line was functioning, it was the defensive application, he argued, that had let the side down, and not merely the back line.
When pressed on the substitution of Ratkov, he was candid.
“I needed more liveliness, Noslin could provide that. But I knew that if the team didn’t change as a whole, it would be pointless.”
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 1: Roberto D’Aversa, Manager of Torino FC greets Maurizio Sarri, Manager of SS Lazio during the Serie A match between Torino FC and SS Lazio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on March 1, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Chris Ricco/Getty Images)
With a daunting double fixture against Atalanta on the horizon, Sarri’s closing message was unambiguous.
“If you have great motivation, you can find it even the day before a game. If you don’t, you can stay in a training camp for a month and it won’t matter. We need to find motivation that comes from within.”
Torino got life under Roberto D’Aversa off to a flying start this evening, with a 2-0 win against Maurizio Sarri’s Lazio, Giovanni Simeone and Duvan Zapata scoring to help secure an important three points.
Speaking at his first post-match press conference as Torino boss, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb, D’Aversa was delighted with his side’s performance against the Biancocelesti.
“When there is a change of manager, a reaction is normal,” he said. “I’m pleased with the strikers’ goals, we had the courage to start them both immediately to send a signal. When everyone sees Zapata and Simeone working hard and sacrificing for the team, everyone gives more.”
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 1: Roberto D’Aversa, Manager of Torino FC greets Maurizio Sarri, Manager of SS Lazio during the Serie A match between Torino FC and SS Lazio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on March 1, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Chris Ricco/Getty Images)
Torino 2-0 Lazio – D’Aversa: ‘Important win, now we focus on Napoli’
He also credited his 3-4-2-1 system, noting that the same formation can be interpreted in very different ways depending on the approach. “We tried to occupy the width with Duvan attacking the depth. We had prepared it that way.”
On what message he delivered to his players before kick-off, D’Aversa was candid and refreshingly human.
“I reminded them that we were going out to play football, to be enthusiastic, to consider ourselves fortunate given what is happening in the rest of the world. We needed to restore enthusiasm and confidence.”
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 01: Duvan Zapata of Torino FC scores a second goal during the Serie A match on March 01, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
He was equally quick to keep expectations in check, repeatedly stressing that nothing had been achieved yet.
“We haven’t done anything,” he said more than once. “The win was important, but now we think about Napoli.”
Juventus director Giorgio Chiellini warns it will be ‘a fight to the last minute to see who gets into the Champions League’ as they face Roma, but Luciano Spalletti’s future is guaranteed.
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
LEWISBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – JUNE 14: Former Juventus and Italian national team defender Giorgio Chiellini arrives at the airport prior to the official FIFA Club World Cup 2025 on June 14, 2025 in Lewisburg, West Virginia. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)
“Roma are a strong team with a great coach, so of course we expected them to challenge for fourth place to the end,” Chiellini told DAZN Italia.
“This is an important game, we need to recover some points we dropped recently, but it will be a fight to the last minute of the last game to see who gets into the Champions League.”
The fact remains, Juventus are now out of the Champions League and the Coppa Italia, while this is a head-to-head for their hope of climbing back into the top four of Serie A.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Weston McKennie of Juventus FC celebrates after scoring his team’s third goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
Before the ‘win’ over Galatasaray, the Bianconeri had lost four and drawn one in all competition.
“It won’t be over tomorrow regardless, but clearly it is an important fixture. Apart from the setback with Como, the only game in the last three months that was a really bad performance, the team has looked solid and with more belief in its abilities.
“I don’t know if we will win, but I do expect to see a mature and confident performance, which we saw on Wednesday.”
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Inevitably, Chiellini was again asked if there are any plans to sign coach Spalletti to a long-term contract, seeing as his Juventus deal only runs to June 30.
“Unfortunately in a way we’ll have a lot more time during the week from now on to sit down with Luciano and talk, but for I don’t see anyone else on the Juventus bench for next season. Let’s just do everything at the right time, there’s no rush,” assured Chiellini.
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Lloyd Kelly of Juventus looks on during the Coppa Italia match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Manuel Locatelli is suspended tonight, with Dusan Vlahovic, Emil Holm and Arek Milik out, but Pierre Kalulu and Gleison Bremer return.
There are a few question marks over what system Juve are using, as so much depends on the versatility of Weston McKennie.
Mattia Perin is also confirmed in goal after recent Michele Di Gregorio howlers.
Roma director Ricky Massara assures they will ‘not be lacking an aggressive, attacking approach’ to Juventus, even if there are some tactical tweaks this evening.
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Fans of AS Roma show their support as they wave flags and hold scarves prior to the Serie A match between AS Roma and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on January 25, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Paulo Dybala has recovered for a spot on the bench against his old club, but Matias Soulé, Mario Hermoso, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson are still out of action.
Somewhat surprisingly, Zeki Celik drops into the back three and Niccolò Pisilli seems to be in a more advanced role, bringing in Devyne Rensch on the right.
Roma reshuffle the pack for Juventus clash
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Donyell Malen of AS Roma celebrates after scoring his side first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and AS Roma at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 15, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
“The coach prepared the game this way, but I don’t think the attitude of the team will change. It has a very aggressive, attacking approach in every match, and those elements certainly won’t be lacking this evening,” Massara told DAZN Italia.
Roma have struggled in the big games so far under Gian Piero Gasperini, tending to drop precious points against the stronger opponents.
This is a showdown for the Champions League places, as the Giallorossi are only four points clear of Juve going into this match.
“It’s true that we never lacked performances, even when the results weren’t the maximum, but we have always had very positive games. It’s a wonderful atmosphere this evening and we’re very pleased,” assured Massara.
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Bryan Cristante of AS Roma in action during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Cremonese at Stadio Olimpico on February 22, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Bryan Cristante and Gianluca Mancini’s agents are in the stands, while there are also contract talks for Dybala, Celik and Stephan El Shaarawy extensions.
“We are in contact with all the agents of the players, but there are no particular developments right now. We are concentrated on the final weeks of the season, aware we can count on great professionals who have always shown commitment to the club.
“Cristante and Mancini’s contracts expire in 2027, so we are talking, and we’ll inform you when there is news.”
BBC pundit Chris Sutton has launched a scathing attack on Chelsea winger Pedro Neto, labeling the Portuguese international an “idiot” following his costly red card in the London derby against Arsenal.
Neto’s dismissal proved to be the turning point at the Emirates Stadium as the Gunners secured a vital 2-1 victory to bolster their title credentials.
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Chris Sutton slams Pedro Neto
The incident occurred in the second half, shortly after Jurrien Timber had headed Arsenal into a 2-1 lead.
Neto, who had already been cautioned for dissent in the immediate aftermath of the goal, lost his composure just three minutes later.
The winger lunged into a reckless challenge on Gabriel Martinelli near the touchline, leaving referee Darren England with little choice but to issue a second yellow card.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Sutton did not hold back in his assessment of the Chelsea star’s lack of discipline.
He said: “From Chelsea’s point of view, Pedro Neto let them down badly, What an idiot getting sent off like that.
“You’re already on a yellow card for mouthiness, which is stupid enough, and then to fly in like that on Martinelli when your team is chasing the game? It’s brainless.
“He’s a senior player now, and he’s effectively killed any chance of a comeback for his teammates.”
Arsenal took the lead through William Saliba before a Piero Hincapié own goal leveled the scores just before the break.
However, the Gunners’ proficiency from set-pieces told once again when Timber rose highest to meet a Declan Rice corner in the 66th minute.
The win marks Arsenal’s 16th goal from a corner this season, equaling a Premier League record.
For Chelsea, the defeat halts a promising six-match unbeaten run under Liam Rosenior and leaves them sixth in the table, facing a uphill battle for Champions League qualification.
Jurrien Timber wants Arsenal to enjoy the Premier League title race after a cagey win over Chelsea saw them move five points clear of Manchester City. Timber headed home in the 66th minute of an attritional contest at Emirates Stadium to seal a 2-1 victory. All three goals came from corners, with Arsenal’s set-piece proficiency […]
Arsenal restored their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League as they ground out a 2-1 win over 10-man Chelsea. Jurrien Timber’s 66th-minute header proved decisive at Emirates Stadium, where all three goals came from corners. Arsenal went ahead in the 21st minute, with Gabriel Magalhaes meeting Bukayo Saka’s corner to set up […]
Verdict: Everton win & Both teams to score Best Odds: 11/4 Bookmaker: Luckster Looking to make it consecutive Premier League victories on Tuesday night, Everton will welcome Burnley to the blue half of Mersyside. Everton As for the visitors, springing a real upset at St. James’ Park over the weekend as they eventually picked up […]
Verdict: Both teams to score Best Odds: 2/3 Bookmaker: Dachbet Two camps who are looking to book their own respective iconic European finishes this season, Bournemouth will welcome Brentford to the Vitality on Tuesday night. Bournemouth Starting with the hosts, while Bournemouth might have continued to impress since opening the New Year, Andoni Iraola’s men […]
Barcelona have long mulled over Marcus Rashford and whether to turn the Manchester United forward’s loan into a permanent transfer for €30million, and according to Sport, they’ve now decided to do so. An agreement over personal terms on a three-year contract is already in place. Rashford had difficulty in getting his quality recognized at United […]
With Qatar's current situation, FIFA are reportedly set to wait on making a decision over the postponement of the 2026 Finalissima between Lionel Messi's Argentina and Lamine Yamal's Spain.
The 2026 Finalissima between Argentina and Spain, one of the marquee matchups of the year ahead of the World Cup, has once again been thrust into the spotlight amid the possibility of the game being suspended. However, reports have now surfaced that FIFA will wait before deciding on a postponement of the clash between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal.
After several months without an agreement on a date, FIFA, CONMEBOL, and UEFA had settled on staging the match in Qatar at Lusail Stadium on March 27. However, the situation in Qatar has put the country on alert, prompting security measures and the postponement of several sporting events nationwide.
On Sunday, the Qatar Football Association released a statement addressing the situation in Qatari soccer: “Qatar Football Association announces the postponement of all tournaments, competitions, and matches, effective from today and until further notice. The new dates for the resumption of competitions will be announced in due course through the Association’s official channels.“
The Finalissima still not suspended
Despite the statement released by the QFA, the Finalissima has not been officially suspended yet. The decision from the national federation applies only to competitions under its jurisdiction, while any ruling on international events such as the Finalissima between Argentina and Spain will be determined jointly by FIFA, UEFA, and CONMEBOL.
General view inside the Lusail stadium.
As reported by Argentine journalist Gastón Edul, the Finalissima is not officially suspended. CONMEBOL and UEFA have not held discussions with the Qatari government, meaning the match remains unresolved and is expected to be clarified in the coming days, with less than a month remaining before the scheduled date.
Edul also reported that the chances of the duel between Argentina and Spain not being played on the 27th “are very high.” Still, the governing bodies plan to remain cautious before making a determination, waiting to see whether the situation escalates before reaching a final decision.
What are the options for the Finalissima?
Taking into account the significant commercial agreement Qatar has to host the clash between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal, it is rather unlikely the nation would relinquish hosting rights to another country on the same date. Under that scenario, only one realistic option remains.
As the Argentine insider reported, postponement is among the most likely outcomes, though it remains unclear whether that would mean days, weeks, or even months, especially given how close the World Cup is. FIFA, UEFA, and CONMEBOL are monitoring the situation before making a final call on a match that has already faced multiple delays.
Spain's Lamine Yamal and Argentina's Lionel Messi.
Roberto D’Aversa made the ideal debut on the Torino bench, securing a 2-0 victory over troubled Lazio with Giovanni Simeone and Duvan Zapata goals.
The Granata sacked ex-Lazio boss Marco Baroni this week after scraping one win and one draw in eight Serie A rounds. Emirhan Ilkhan was suspended after his red card against Genoa, with Che Adams not fully fit and Zanos Savva injured. The Aquile had one win in six rounds, but were preparing for Wednesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Atalanta. Daniel Maldini, Pedro, Elseid Hysaj, Toma Basic, Nicolò Rovella, Samuel Gigot and Mario Gila missed the trip.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 1: Roberto D’Aversa, Manager of Torino FC during the Serie A match between Torino FC and SS Lazio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on March 1, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Chris Ricco/Getty Images)
Despite the dismissal of Baroni, Toro fans continued their protest against President Urbano Cairo, so there were very few people in the stands.
The Granata opened the scoring when Duvan Zapata’s shot took a deflection off Alessio Romagnoli to loop up, turning into an accidental assist for Giovanni Simeone to pounce at the back post, flicking it past the on-rushing Ivan Provedel. Oliver Provstgaard tried a desperate goal-line clearance, but couldn’t do it in time. Cholito really does have a remarkable record against Lazio, as this was his 10th goal past them.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 1: Giovanni Simeone of Torino FC celebrates after scoring the team´s first goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and SS Lazio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on March 1, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Chris Ricco/Getty Images)
Simeone nearly got a second moments later, Provedel getting down quickly to palm the daisy-cutter round the post.
The Biancocelesti replied when Mattia Zaccagni pulled back from the by-line for Reda Belahyane, whose finish from 14 yards surprised Alberto Paleari, but was cleared practically off the line by Saul Coco.
Lazio made two changes for the restart, but it was Torino who doubled their lead when Rafa Obrador stood up a cross from the left for Duvan Zapata to overpower Provstgaard with a header from six yards.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 01: Giovanni Simeone of Torino FC celebrates scoring the opening goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and SS Lazio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on March 01, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Tijjani Noslin tested Alberto Paleari from distance with a curler, while Valentino Lazaro’s volley was charged down by Pellegrini, and Torino failed to score from a corner when three players all had free headers from six yards, colliding with each other.
Nuno Tavares sprinted down the left and pulled back from the by-line for a Noslin tap-in, but Enzo Ebosse made a decisive block at the near post.
Paleari was called into a big save at the 87th minute, flying to palm an Alessio Romagnoli header out from the bar from point-blank range on the corner.
Donyell Malen and Lorenzo Pellegrini lead the Roma attack in this showdown for the top four, as Juventus hope Jonathan David and Kenan Yildiz can end the crisis.
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Donyell Malen of AS Roma celebrates after scoring his side second goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and AS Roma at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 15, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
This is a pure head-to-head for Champions League places, as Juve slipped down the standings and are four points behind the Giallorossi.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s men have been on fine form lately with seven points in the last three rounds, despite missing Paulo Dybala, Matias Soulé, Mario Hermoso, Artem Dovbyk, Evan Ferguson and Stephan El Shaarawy.
There is some good news from the treatment room, as ex-Juve hero Dybala is back on the bench along with El Shaarawy, but Soulé and Hermoso have not recovered.
January signings Malen and Zaragoza have made a strong impact, but Zaragoza is benched in favour of Niccolo’ Pisilli in a more advanced role with Lorenzo Pellegrini.
Zeki Celik also drops into the back three, so Devyne Rensch fills the gap on the wing.
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Niccolo Pisilli of AS Roma celebrates after scoring the team’s third goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Cremonese at Stadio Olimpico on February 22, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
It was a remarkable performance after Lloyd Kelly’s red card, wiping out the 5-2 first leg deficit only to capitulate in extra time, eliminated even though winning 3-2 on the night.
There are more problems to contend with, as Manuel Locatelli is suspended, though Pierre Kalulu returns from his ban and Gleison Bremer has shaken off a knock.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 21: Khephren Thuram of Juventus greets teammate Pierre Kalulu following the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD7 match between Juventus and SL Benfica at Juventus Stadium on January 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
This leaves only Dusan Vlahovic, Emil Holm and Arek Milik still out injured.
Luciano Spalletti is not fondly remembered at the Stadio Olimpico due to his troubles with Roma legend Francesco Totti.
He uses Francisco Conceicao and Kenan Yildiz behind striker David in what might be a 3-4-2-1 formation, or a 4-2-3-1 depending on Weston McKennie’s role.
Andrea Cambiaso and Juan Cabal were suspended in the Champions League, but return here.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Head Coach Luciano Spalletti of Juventus FC looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
Juventus are preparing to open talks over a contract renewal with Dusan Vlahovic, with the club increasingly open to the idea of keeping the Serbian striker beyond his current deal, a significant shift from the position held just a few months ago when his departure seemed inevitable.
Vlahovic currently earns €12 million net per season, the highest wage on Juventus’ books, a figure the club have privately acknowledged is unsustainable and one they have no intention of matching in future contracts.
At €23 million gross, the outlay represents exactly the kind of financial commitment the club are looking to move away from as they restructure their wage bill.
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus FC lies injured during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Cagliari Calcio at Allianz Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
However, according to Corriere dello Sport, Juventus may have found a creative solution, one they have already successfully deployed elsewhere.
Juventus use Yildiz deal as template for Vlahovic talks
The model used to secure Kenan Yildiz’s renewal could serve as the template: a reduced base salary of around €7 million per year, offset by a substantial signing-on bonus of approximately €6 million.
It is an arrangement that allows the club to lower their long-term wage commitments while still offering the player a financially attractive package up front.
Whether Vlahovic accepts such terms remains to be seen, particularly given the interest from clubs of the calibre of Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Milan.
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 04: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus takes a shot during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between Juventus and Sporting Clube de Portugal at Juventus Stadium on November 04, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
The Serbian is expected to return from injury in the coming weeks, and his performances between now and the end of the season are likely to be decisive in shaping both his own thinking and the appetite of those rival clubs.
For Juventus, keeping Vlahovic and extending Spalletti’s tenure are both part of a broader push for stability, a word that has become something of a mantra at the club in recent months.
Marco Verratti is set to make a surprise return to the Italy national team, with new head coach Gennaro Gattuso ready to recall the veteran midfielder for the World Cup playoff fixtures, according to transfer insider Nicolò Schira.
Schira reports that positive direct contact has taken place between the two parties in recent hours, with Verratti confirming his availability and willingness to pull on the Azzurri shirt once more, a development few would have predicted given how long he has been absent from the international scene.
The experienced midfielder has been plying his trade in Qatar with Al-Arabi and Al-Duhail since leaving Paris Saint-Germain, and his omission from Italy squads in recent years had led many to assume his international career was over.
ENSCHEDE, NETHERLANDS – JUNE 15: Marco Verratti of Italy arrives before the UEFA Nations League 2022/23 semifinal match between Spain and Italy at FC Twente Stadium on June 15, 2023 in Enschede, Netherlands. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
Verratti in for shock Italy call-up?
However, Gattuso, who shares a strong personal relationship with the midfielder, has clearly decided that his technical quality and experience could be invaluable during the high-stakes pressure of playoff football.
It is a bold call, but not an entirely surprising one given Gattuso’s personality.
The Italy boss has never been one to shy away from decisive or unconventional decisions, and with a World Cup place on the line, turning to one of the most technically gifted Italian midfielders of his generation carries obvious logic.
For Verratti, it would represent a remarkable and emotional international comeback, and an opportunity to write one final chapter in an Azzurri career that, until very recently, appeared to have already reached its conclusion.
Lorenzo Insigne came full circle today, as after more than 5,000 days he started as Pescara captain and scored for their victory over Palermo in Serie B.
The 34-year-old former Italy, Napoli and Toronto FC star made his name on loan at Pescara in Serie B during the 2011-12 campaign.
Zdenek Zeman was the coach, and his teammates for the Delfini were Ciro Immobile and Marco Verratti, all of them going on to stellar careers.
Pescara homecoming for Insigne
PESCARA, ITALY – MAY 26: Lorenzo Insigne of Pescara celebrates the victory after the Serie B match between Pescara Calcio and ASG Nocerina at Adriatico Stadium on May 26, 2012 in Pescara, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Bellini/Getty Images)
Nottingham Forest have decided against triggering their option to permanently sign Lorenzo Lucca, according to reliable transfer journalist Nicolò Schira, confirming what his performances this season have long suggested was coming.
The Italian striker joined Forest on loan from Napoli in January, with the English club holding a purchase option worth €35 million.
That clause will not be exercised, with Schira reporting that Forest are simply not satisfied with what Lucca has produced since his arrival at the City Ground.
It is difficult to argue with that assessment.
LEEDS, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 06: Lorenzo Lucca embraces Igor Jesus of Nottingham Forest as Omari Hutchinson and Sean Dyche look on during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Nottingham Forest at Elland Road on February 06, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Lucca expected back at Napoli this summer
The 25-year-old has managed just 120 minutes of Premier League football, started only once, and was hooked at half-time during a Europa League playoff leg against Fenerbahce, a performance that drew sharp criticism from supporters.
The goal he scored on his debut against Leeds briefly raised hopes of a turnaround, but it has proven to be an isolated moment in an otherwise underwhelming loan spell.
The news will concern Napoli considerably.
TURIN, ITALY – OCTOBER 18: Adrien Tameze of Torino is challenged by Lorenzo Lucca of Napoli during the Serie A match between Torino FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on October 18, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The club paid close to €40 million to sign Lucca from Udinese, where he had impressed with 12 goals in a single season, only for him to completely fail to establish himself under Antonio Conte.
His contract runs until 2030, meaning Napoli cannot simply move him on cheaply, yet finding a buyer willing to meet their valuation after two consecutive failed loan spells will be an increasingly difficult task.
Lucca will return to Naples at the end of the season with his market value significantly diminished and his future at the club deeply uncertain.
Barcelona have long mulled over Marcus Rashford and whether to turn the Manchester United forward’s loan into a permanent transfer for €30million, and according to Sport, they’ve now decided to do so. An agreement over personal terms on a three-year contract is already in place. Rashford had difficulty in getting his quality recognized at United […]
Barcelona have long mulled over Marcus Rashford and whether to turn the Manchester United forward’s loan into a permanent transfer for €30million, and according to Sport, they’ve now decided to do so. An agreement over personal terms on a three-year contract is already in place. Rashford had difficulty in getting his quality recognized at United […]
Raffaele Palladino insists Atalanta must not use their Champions League exploits as ‘an alibi’ for the defeat to 10-man Sassuolo. ‘The real regret was the second goal.’
It is not the first time that La Dea have suffered a Champions League hangover, as the incredible comeback from a 2-0 first leg deficit to eliminate Borussia Dortmund 4-1 on the night took a lot out of this squad.
Even then, they capitulated 2-1 to a Sassuolo side who were down to 10 men since the 16th minute, when Andrea Pinamonti saw red for a studs-up tackle.
— CBS Sports Golazo (@CBSSportsGolazo) March 1, 2026
Nonetheless, Ismael Koné and Kristian Thorstvedt turned in Armand Laurienté assists, with Yunus Musah’s late strike not enough to turn it around, as there were decisive Arijanet Muric fingertip saves in stoppages.
Palladino expected more from Atalanta
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MARCH 01: Raffaele Palladino head coach of Atalanta BC embraces Fabio Grosso head coach of US Sassuolo during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Atalanta BC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on March 01, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“I don’t feel we lacked sharpness, because we took the right approach, so using the Champions League as an alibi is not right,” Palladino told DAZN Italia.
“We were in full control of the match, we had the right attitude, respected our opponents, but oddly after the red card it was Sassuolo who gained confidence. They started to defend deep and we struggled to break them down.
“We moved the ball around too slowly, didn’t go down the wings enough, and didn’t go for the spaces. We did better after the break, went towards different zones that we could attack, but the big regret is conceding that second goal. It made everything more complicated.
“There were chances, but getting a goal back at the 88th minute was too late to really change things, even if we hit the woodwork in stoppages.”
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MARCH 01: Raffaele Palladino head coach of Atalanta BC during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Atalanta BC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on March 01, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Palladino made a triple substitution at half-time, but he did not introduce another centre-forward, replacing Gianluca Scamacca with Nikola Krstovic.
“Sassuolo were defending 4-4-1, so to add another striker would’ve just played into their hands. We needed to attack them down the wings, which we didn’t do effectively enough in the first half. We lacked something on the final ball, but I was convinced we could score, the big regret was conceding the second. We could’ve stopped Laurienté earlier, that was the big mistake.”
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MARCH 01: Lazar Samardžić of Atalanta BC competes for the ball with Nemanja Matic of US Sassuolo during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Atalanta BC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on March 01, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
This was the first defeat of 2026 for Atalanta in Serie A, since December 28 against Inter, and will damage their hopes of breaking back into the top four.
“I analysed the team, and if I had seen them start badly, I might’ve considered us being distracted by midweek, but I didn’t see that. It’s disappointing, but these things can happen, we must put it behind us and focus immediately on the Coppa Italia.”
Atalanta will face Lazio in the Coppa Italia semi-final first leg on Wednesday, as the squad is becoming stretched rather thin by all these tournaments.
Fabio Grosso feels Sassuolo ‘wrote their names in the history books of this club’ with a 2-1 victory over Atalanta when down to 10 men. ‘It’s the icing on the cake with a big cherry on top.’
The Neroverdi are on spectacular form, winning five of their last six Serie A matches, and flying into eighth place in the table.
It is all the more remarkable, as Andrea Pinamonti received a straight red card after just 16 minutes for a studs-up tackle on Berat Djimsiti’s ankle.
Nonetheless, Ismael Koné and Kristian Thorstvedt turned in Armand Laurienté assists, and although Yunus Musah got one back late on, Arijanet Muric had a series of decisive fingertip saves to keep the points secure.
Grosso hails ‘crazy’ Sassuolo
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MARCH 01: Kristian Thorstvedt of US Sassuolo celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Atalanta BC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on March 01, 2026 in Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“It was a crazy game. The lads wrote their names in the history books of this club,” Grosso told DAZN Italia.
Although they had been doing well, Sassuolo had not yet managed to beat one of the big clubs this season.
“We had been looking for the icing on the cake, and this was the icing with a big cherry on top. Our opponents were coming off the Champions League, but are also very strong. Our defenders were solid, determined, it’s not easy to keep that concentration for 90 minutes.
“We’re glad to have picked up some important points, and to achieve it with a performance like this.”
There was more bad luck for Sassuolo today, as Alieu Fadera had been on the pitch for just five minutes when he had to be substituted, left dazed by an aerial collision with Sead Kolasinac.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MARCH 01: Fabio Grosso head coach of US Sassuolo celebrates with his team during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Atalanta BC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on March 01, 2026 in Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“Everyone worked so hard today, both those who started and who came off the bench. We are often very attacking and ambitious, but oddly we used up less energy today than usual, because we were so very concentrated,” added Grosso.
Considering he is back to fitness and such fine form, should Domenico Berardi be called up for Italy’s World Cup play-offs?
“He is my player, so of course I am his sponsor, but the coach and his staff will know what to do in order to take Italy back to where we belong, and haven’t been for a while.”
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MARCH 01: Referee Matteo Marchetti shows the red card to Andrea Pinamonti of US Sassuolo during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Atalanta BC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on March 01, 2026 in Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Being a newly-promoted side, the Neroverdi can now look to the final weeks of the campaign without pressure, and potentially even aim for Europe.
“It’s easy to forget that we were coming from Serie B, so it’s not easy to make that leap, and we’ve seen many other teams struggle badly. So we don’t want to settle, we know that every match is an opportunity, and we will go for points in every game.
“That is the objective, because we are nearly there, but not mathematically sure of safety yet,” concluded Grosso.
Just days after their historic Champions League night, Atalanta crumbled against a Sassuolo side that was down to 10 men for well over an hour, with Ismael Koné and Kristian Thorstvedt goals.
La Dea completed an epic comeback from 2-0 down in the first leg to knock Borussia Dortmund out of the Champions League. Ederson, Charles De Ketelaere and Giacomo Raspadori were still out, with Honest Ahanor suffering from flu symptoms. Sassuolo welcomed back Nemanja Matic and Tarik Muharemovic from suspension, though Sebastian Walukiewicz was banned instead, with Daniel Boloca, Fali Cande and Edoardo Pieragnolo injured after four wins in the last five.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MARCH 01: Raffaele Palladino head coach of Atalanta BC embraces Fabio Grosso head coach of US Sassuolo during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Atalanta BC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on March 01, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
It was wide open from the start, as Nicola Zalewski couldn’t keep his lob on target after springing the offside trap, then Marco Carnesecchi got down for a one-handed save on Thorstvedt’s glancing header.
The game changed after just 16 minutes when the referee showed a straight red card to Andrea Pinamonti, who didn’t see Berat Djimsiti until it was too late, going into a sliding tackle with studs-up on the defender’s ankle.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MARCH 01: Referee Matteo Marchetti shows the red card to Andrea Pinamonti of US Sassuolo during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Atalanta BC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on March 01, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Despite being down to 10 men, Sassuolo still took the lead when Ismael Koné was ready to bundle an Armand Laurienté corner over the line from close range.
Arijanet Muric did well to palm away the Raoul Bellanova header from Lorenzo Bernasconi’s cross, but Sassuolo nearly got a second when Muharemovic nodded a Domenico Berardi free kick over from six yards.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MARCH 01: Lazar Samardžić of Atalanta BC competes for the ball with Nemanja Matic of US Sassuolo during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Atalanta BC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on March 01, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Raffaele Palladino made a triple change at half-time, and substitutes Nikola Krstovic and Davide Zappacosta turned over from promising situations.
There was also a wonderful Sassuolo move including Koné back-heel flick for Laurienté, but Berat Djimsiti would not let the striker turn.
Despite being down to 10 men from the 16th minute, the hosts doubled their lead when Thorstvedt swept into the top corner from the edge of the area with the inside of the left boot, an unstoppable finish on another Laurienté assist.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MARCH 01: Kristian Thorstvedt of US Sassuolo celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Atalanta BC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on March 01, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Muric flew to palm away the Krstovic header moments later, but Alieu Fadera’s game lasted only a couple of minutes before he was left badly dazed by an aerial collision with Sead Kolasinac.
The best opportunity for Atalanta was in the final minutes, Muric doing just enough to deflect a Samardzic tap-in onto the upright from Zappacosta’s assist.
The situation was repeated and this time Yunus Musah was ready to sweep in another Zappacosta pull-back from the right to set up a tense finale.
It could’ve been 2-2 in stoppages, but Muric fingertipped the Giorgio Scalvini looping header onto the bar from a Mario Pasalic cross.
A deflected Zappacosta shot ricocheted into the path of Krstovic, closed down by a desperate Jay Idzes block.
Manchester United’s 2-1 comeback victory over Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on Sunday was overshadowed by a significant injury concern for Harry Maguire.
The experienced center-back was forced off in the closing stages of the match, adding to a growing defensive crisis for head coach Michael Carrick.
Maguire, who has been a mainstay in Carrick’s revitalized backline, appeared to pick up a knock late in the second half.
After receiving brief treatment on the pitch, he was replaced by teenager Ayden Heaven in the 85th minute.
Rather than taking a seat on the bench, Maguire headed straight for the dressing room, sparking fears of a long-term layoff.
(Photo by Molly Darlington/Copa/Getty Images)
Dion Dublin on Harry Maguire
Former Manchester United striker Dion Dublin, reporting for BBC Radio 5 Live at Old Trafford, noted the worrying nature of the departure:
“Harry Maguire has walked off straight down the tunnel with the physios. It didn’t look like a tactical move; he looked in some discomfort as he went past.”
The injury is a bitter pill for United, who also lost Luke Shaw to an early injury in the first half of the same match.
With Lisandro Martínez and Matthijs de Ligt already sidelined, Carrick faces a selection headache ahead of a crucial trip to Newcastle United.
Man United’s resurgence under Michael Carrick continues
Despite the injury setbacks, the Carrick Effect remains in full swing.
United fell behind early to a Maxence Lacroix header but showed immense character to turn the game around after Lacroix was sent off in the second half.
Bruno Fernandes leveled from the penalty spot before Benjamin Sesko climbed highest to head home a 65th-minute winner.
The victory extends United’s unbeaten run to 10 Premier League matches, lifting them to third in the table.
Since replacing Ruben Amorim in mid-January, Carrick has transformed the side into one of the league’s most clinical outfits.
Arsenal face Chelsea, seeking a victory that would consolidate them as the undisputed leaders of the Premier League. While the Gunners arrive as clear favorites, the Blues come in full form, promising a highly competitive match.
Following a multi-million dollar investment, Arsenal have established themselves as one of the world’s top teams, maintaining great solidity. In today’s Premier League clash, they showcased their impressive performances by dominating Chelsea. Although neither Viktor Gyokeres nor Eberechi Eze found the net, William Saliba and Justin Timber were decisive in securing the victory. Coupled with this, the Blues endured Pedro Neto’s red card, complicating the outcome.
While head coach Liam Rosenior aimed to regain Chelsea’s best form, they failed to shine in today’s game. Not only did they struggle to deliver consistently on offense, but they also fell short defensively. Their high pressing approach left several gaps in the backline that Viktor Gyokeres constantly exploited. Additionally, the Blues struggled to defend corner kicks, allowing Saliba and Timber to shine as they bypassed Mamadou Sarr and Trevor Chalobah.
Arsenal managed to shine throughout the Premier League match, led by Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice. Despite the Blues’ quick counterattacks, both players were able to disrupt those advances and launch rapid responses, consistently finding Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. Even so, the performance of Gyökeres and Eze was disappointing, as they failed to make a difference, creating few serious goal-scoring chances.
While the Gunners secured a 2-1 victory, the match was fairly evenly contested. Neither Arsenal nor Chelsea truly excelled in attack, leaving their midfielders as the standout performers. Additionally, both sides only managed to threaten each other from set pieces, particularly corner kicks, raising doubts about their ability to break down well-organized defenses. Even so, Mikel Arteta achieved his primary goal: Keeping Arsenal atop the Premier League table.
Gabriel Magalhaes of Arsenal is challenged by Joao Pedro of Chelsea.
AS Roma will host Juventus in a Matchday 27 showdown in the 2025/2026 Serie A campaign. Supporters in the United States can catch every minute of the clash, with complete kickoff times and broadcast details provided for both television and streaming options.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch AS Roma vs Juventus on US television and via legal streaming:
Champions League positioning is front and center in Matchday 27 as Juventuslook to recover from their European playoff exit and reignite their top-four push against a direct rival. The Bianconeri trail the final qualifying spot and understand that three points are essential to avoid falling further behind in the standings.
Standing in their way is AS Roma, who currently occupy fourth place with 50 points and control their own destiny. A victory would give Roma breathing room in the race and tighten their grip on a Champions League berth. With so much at stake, this is a showdown you won’t want to miss.
More details on how to watch
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If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full Paramount+ soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
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If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.
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Ange-Yoan Bonny limped off during Inter’s win over Genoa and is expected to miss the Coppa Italia semi-final against Como, but could recover to face Milan.
The Nerazzurri put their Champions League disappointment behind them with a 2-0 result at San Siro last night, thanks to goals from Federico Dimarco and Hakan Calhanoglu.
Bonny hobbled off the field with a muscular issue and coach Cristian Chivu said in post-match interviews he did not know what the problem was.
Inter dealing with Bonny problem
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 14: Ange-Yoan Bonny of FC Internazionale Milano controls the ball whilst under pressure from Jamil Siebert of US Lecce and teammates during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
According to multiple reports, Bonny is still not fully recovered, although tests to show potential lesions are considered unnecessary for now.
It therefore seems unlikely the former Parma striker will be picked for Tuesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final first leg against Como.
LECCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 21: Francesco Pio Esposito of Inter warms up prior to the Serie A match between US Lecce and FC Internazionale at Stadio Via del Mare on February 21, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
With Lautaro Martinez already out for a while with a calf strain he suffered against Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League play-off, this leaves few alternatives.
Marcus Thuram should therefore partner Francesco Pio Esposito upfront in the traditional 3-5-2 formation.
Inter do not want to take any risks, as next weekend is the Derby della Madonnina with Serie A rivals Milan.
Reports in Italy claim that Roma are plotting a move to reunite Gian Piero Gasperini with his former Atalanta midfielder Teun Koopmeiners, who has struggled to live up to expectations following his €60m transfer to Juventus in 2024.
Could Roma and Juventus strike a deal for Koopmeiners?
Koopmeiners is approaching the end of his second season in Turin following his 2024 transfer from Atalanta to Juventus, which came at a total cost of €60.7m with bonuses and add-ons included.
A standout for Atalanta and a key player on their way to the Europa League title in 2023-24, Koopmeiners has failed to live up to expectations thus far in Turin and is not currently a guaranteed starter under Luciano Spalletti, despite being the most expensive Serie A arrival of the last six years.
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – FEBRUARY 17: Teun Koopmeiners of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off First Leg match between Galatasaray A.S. and Juventus at Ali Sami Yen Spor Kompleksi on February 17, 2026 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Burak Kara/Getty Images)
The Dutchman has only started in 15 of Juventus’s 25 Serie A matches so far this term and is yet to find the back of the net in the league. For comparison, he finished his final season with Atalanta with 12 goals and five assists to his name in the league in 2023-24.
Koopmeiners is expected to be given an opportunity to start in midfield when Juventus take on Roma at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday afternoon, in the absence of suspended captain Manuel Locatelli.
According to Sunday’s reports, this could be an opportunity for Koopmeiners to put himself in the shop window ahead of the summer transfer window, as reports from Calciomercato.com and Tuttosport claim that Roma are plotting a potential move for the Bianconeri midfielder.
Sunday’s reports claim that Galatasaray are also among the interested parties in Koopmeiners.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – JANUARY 17: Teun Koopmeiners of Juventus in action during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Juventus FC at Stadio Sant’Elia on January 17, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Roma are, of course, under the leadership of Gasperini, who oversaw the best version of Koopmeiners during their three years together at Atalanta.
According to Calciomercato, Juventus are prepared to entertain offers for Koopmeiners during the summer transfer window, but only those that are in excess of €30m, given that they spent almost somewhere around the €60m mark two years ago.
Koopmeiners is currently under contract until the summer of 2029 with Juventus, having signed a five-year deal back in the summer of 2024.
Strahinja Pavlovic was the star of the show for Milan as they recorded a late, late 2-0 victory away against Cremosnee in Serie A on Sunday afternoon. Here are the player ratings after a tightly-contested affair at the Stadio Giovanni Zini.
Goals from Pavlovic in the 90th minute and a second from Rafael Leao in the fourth minute of stoppage time helped Milan on their way to an important 2-0 victory, which puts them back within 10 points of league leaders Inter ahead of the Derby della Madonnina next weekend.
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 01: Rafael Leao of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AC Milan at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Best Cremonese player: Emil Audero 7 – A particularly impressive first-half performance with huge saves to deny both Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic one-on-one. Cremonese could have found themselves two down before the interval had it not been for those stops. Six saves in total for the Cremo keeper.
Coach: Davide Nicola 6.5 – Despite the Leao and Pulisic chances, Nicola will have been largely pleased with what he saw from his side before the final few moments. This was a fairly evenly contested affair, which is encouraging for a team ranked 17th up against the team that currently sits in second. There will be obvious disappointment with the way in which Cremonese lost the game: From a set-piece in the 90th minute which led to their unravelling again a few minutes later.
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 01: Strahinja Pavlovic of AC Milan runs with the ball during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AC Milan at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Best Milan player: Strahinja Pavlovic 7 – A solid defensive shift from the Serbian, who completed 100% of his three attempted tackles – Only Giuseppe Pezzella (four) completed more. He also made two clearances and one interception before scoring the winning goal in the 90th minute to hand Milan all three points. Pavlovic is now up to three goals for the season in Serie A: His highest ever seasonal goal tally.
Coach: Massimiliano Allegri 6 – This is a season where Milan continue to grind out results, and given their troubles last campaign, a second place finish and a spot in the Champions League would be a solid return for Allegri in his first season back in charge. The reality of watching Milan as they grind out these results is not always the prettiest scenario, which was again the case against Cremonese. Still, a solid three points and one step closer to that final goal that Allegri keeps referring to.
Milan star Rafael Leao says that he and his teammates recorded a massively important victory away against Cremonese in Serie A on Sunday afternoon, and has given a brief preview ahead of the Derby della Madonnina against rivals Inter next weekend: ‘Win or die’.
Leao and Strahinja Pavlovic struck at the very end of the game at the Stadio Giovanni Zini on Sunday afternoon: The first goal coming in the 90th minute and the second in the fourth minute of injury time.
Leao looks ahead to Milan vs. Inter: ‘The Derby is always a personal thing’
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 01: Rafael Leao of AC Milan looks dejected during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AC Milan at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Leao is now up to 10 goals across all competitions in 2025-26. His goal against Cremonese was his ninth in Serie A, which makes him Milan’s leading goalscorer in the league, overtaking Christian Pulisic on eight.
Speaking during his post-match interview, Leao insisted that he is less focused on individual goals and more concerned with his side’s qualification for the Champions League.
“We have our primary goal, which is to return to the Champions League. We’re having a great season and this was a very important match,” Leao said after full-time.
Up next on the schedule for the Rossoneri is the Derby della Madonnina against runaway league leaders, Inter, whom Milan beat during the reverse fixture earlier this season.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: Rafael Leao of AC Milan competes for the ball with Francesco Acerbi of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We have to finish well and it will be another big game against Inter, not just decisive in terms of points, because the derby is always a personal thing,” said Leao.
“We have great respect for Inter because they are a great team, but we will play well and try to get a result.
“The derby is a great game to play, you can feel it even outside of Milan. Everyone wants to play in these sorts of matches, to win or die.”
Looking to consolidate their position as undisputed leaders of the Premier League, Arsenal face Chelsea in a vibrant London derby. While the Gunners are in top form, the Blues are coming off an inconsistent season, so they need a win. Here are the confirmed lineups for both sides.
After heavily reinforcing their roster, Arsenal have managed to remain at the top of the Premier League for several weeks. However, they are coming off two consecutive draws that have put their position at risk. As a result, the Gunners face Chelsea today in a thrilling London derby. Like them, the Blues are in need of a victory, intensity and tactical discipline could ultimately define the outcome in today’s game.
Unlike the start of the season, coach Mikel Arteta has managed to recover the best version of Viktor Gyökeres, who is coming off a brace against Tottenham Hotspur. With this in mind, Arsenal emerge as the clear favorites, as they maintain a fairly solid team in defense and midfield, making the goal-scoring facet the last requirement needed to maintain their brilliant performance. In addition, Eberechi Eze continues to impose his level.
Chelsea seem to be gradually recovering consistency. Under the guidance of new coach Liam Rosenior, they have managed to regain defensive stability and midfield solidity, with Enzo Fernández being the creative key of the team. In addition, João Pedro and Cole Palmer remain the leaders of the attack, making the difference in every match. Along with this, the Blues have managed to rotate their bench, keeping them in full form.
Both teams arrive in quite different moments in the Premier League, but they need a victory in today’s match. While the Gunners seek to continue pulling away from Manchester City, who are following them closely, the Blues need a win to pursue a Champions League spot, as they are currently outside these places. With this in mind, they could give us a highly competitive match, focusing on the offensive approach.
Kepa Arrizabalaga of Arsenal attempts to clear the ball during a goal mouth scramble.
Arsenal lineup vs. Chelsea
Even though they are the clear favorites to take the victory, Arsenal maintain difficult absentees: Mikel Merino, Ben White, Kai Havertz, and Max Dowman. However, coach Mikel Arteta keeps Bukayo Saka and Viktor Gyökeres as his offensive leaders, alongside William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães in defense. With this, he will opt for a fairly conservative lineup, similar to that of previous matches.
With this in mind, Arsenal will play as follows: David Raya; Justin Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, Piero Hincapié; Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, Eberechi Eze; Bukayo Saka, Viktor Gyökeres, Leandro Trossard.
Chelsea lineup vs. Arsenal
With the arrival of Liam Rosenior, Chelsea arrive in better form to compete against Arsenal, seeking a solid victory. However, they still do not have Mykhaylo Mudryk, Wesley Fofana, Marc Cucurella, Estevao, Jamie Gittens, Dario Essugo, and Levi Colwill available. In view of this, they will look to Cole Palmer and João Pedro as the leaders of the attack, and Alejandro Garnacho will be decisive off the bench.
Considering this, Chelsea will lineup as follows: Robert Sanchez; Reece James, Mamadou Sarr, Trevoh Chalobah, Jorrel Hato; Moises Caicedo, Andrey Santos; Cole Palmer, Enzo Fernandez, Pedro Neto; João Pedro.
Viktor Gyokeres of Arsenal and Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea.
Raffaele Palladino tries to keep Atalanta’s feet on the ground after their Champions League whirlwind, as they visit on form Sassuolo. ‘It’s a different tournament entirely.’
It kicks off at the Mapei Stadium in Reggio Emilia at 14.00 GMT (15.00 CET).
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Marco Carnesecchi of Atalanta interacts with teammate Isak Hien during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Atalanta BC and Borussia Dortmund at Stadio di Bergamo on February 25, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It allowed them to set up a Round of 16 showdown with Bayern Munich, with the Bergamo boys the only remaining Italian representatives in that competition.
Atalanta flying high in all competitions
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Players of Atalanta celebrates victory following the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Atalanta BC and Borussia Dortmund at Stadio di Bergamo on February 25, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We have to focus on recovering the physical and mental energy, as the Champions League saps you of both those elements,” Palladino told DAZN Italia.
“The mentality is the most important thing, detaching totally from the Champions League, and focusing on a different tournament entirely. We are up against a We have to throw ourselves straight back into Serie A.
“We are against a Sassuolo side that won four of its last five games, we studied them carefully, and must pay attention to all the details.”
On top of that, Atalanta are also preparing for Wednesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Lazio.
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Lazar Samardzic of Atalanta celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal with teammates after scoring from the penalty spot during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Atalanta BC and Borussia Dortmund at Stadio di Bergamo on February 25, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
There are some issues to deal with, as along with long-term absentees Charles De Ketelaere and Giacomo Raspadori, Atalanta are also missing Ederson with muscular issues, and Honest Ahanor has flu symptoms.
“Ahanor had a fever yesterday and was not well this morning either, while we are evaluating Ederson one day at a time. We had been hoping to get him back for this game, but we couldn’t manage it, so we hope he’ll be back as soon as possible,” explained Palladino.
Sead Kolasinac starts despite ending the midweek match with cramp, while Nikola Krstovic is on the bench after getting stitches on the head injury he sustained winning that last-gasp penalty, converted by Lazar Samardzic.
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Lazar Samardzic of Atalanta scores his team’s fourth goal from the penalty spot during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Atalanta BC and Borussia Dortmund at Stadio di Bergamo on February 25, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Sama did well to make sure he was ready when called upon, as he always worked hard even when not getting much space. He took his opportunity, and has had more consistency since De Ketelaere’s injury. This is another chance to prove himself.”
Massimiliano Allegri credited his players for an ‘important’ 2-0 victory away against Cremonese in Serie A on Sunday afternoon, but says that all focus is already on the upcoming Derby d’Italia against rivals Inter next weekend now.
Milan left it late to seal a victory away against Cremonese in Serie A on Sunday afternoon: Strahinja Pavlovic breaking the deadlock in the 90th minute before a result-sealing winner from Rafael Leao in the fourth minute of injury time.
Allegri reacts to Cremonese 0-2 Milan: ‘Have to stay alert’
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 01: Rafael Leao of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AC Milan at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Cremonese beat Milan in the reverse fixture on the opening weekend of the 2025-26 season and they remain one of only two sides to have beaten the Rossoneri in the league so far this season.
It looked as if Davide Nicola’s side were going to claim four points from their two meetings with Milan until the final moments at the Stadio Giovanni Zini on Sunday. Speaking during his post-match interview, Allegri praised his side for the way they stayed switched on until the very end.
“Cremonese are a difficult team to play against,” Allegri said. “They kept a very high tempo in the first half and we had difficulty managing the ball. Estupinan came on and did very well, that’s proof I have an extraordinary group.
“Winning today was important, more than anything, to make up for the defeat against Parma, to get closer to our final goal and to help us prepare for the derby.”
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 18: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 18, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Allegri was asked why he only tends to avoid starting with three attacking players on the pitch, but often brings a third striker on when Milan are in need of a goal.
“Right now, it’s a solution for us in-game,” he said. “We had a moment with three attacking players at one specific moment in this game. Fullkrug is working on his condition, like Leao who has grown a lot.
“We could play with the double pivot in midfield or with three strikers, but at this point of the season, I’m not particularly interested in formations. The teams behind us continue scoring points and we have to take things one step at a time knowing that we’ve still got a long road ahead of us.”
Next up for the Rossoneri is the Derby della Madonnina against city rivals and runaway league leaders, Inter.
“You have to stay alert in those moments. They were good on the counter attack. Now we have a week to prepare for a wonderful match,” said Allegri.
Milan needed an unorthodox last-minute Strahinja Pavlovic goal to break Cremonese down, then Rafael Leao made up for big misses with a stoppage-time tap-in.
The Rossoneri suffered only two Serie A defeats this season, the opening weekend with Cremonese and last week against Parma, both at San Siro. Ruben Loftus-Cheek was ruled out for a couple of months by a facial fracture, with Matteo Gabbia and Santiago Gimenez also injured. The hosts had just four draws and three goals scored in the last 12 rounds, missing Federico Baschirotto, Faris Moumbagna and Michele Collocolo.
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 01: Luka Modric of AC Milan is challenged by Jari Vandeputte of US Cremonese during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AC Milan at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Francesco Folino made a desperate interception to stop Rafael Leao tapping in the Adrien Rabiot cross from six yards, while Alexis Saelemaekers drilled wide from the edge of the area.
Cremonese came close when Federico Bonazzoli’s volley on a Giuseppe Pezzella cross was deflected inches wide, then on the resulting corner Jamie Vardy swung just off target too.
Rafael Leao looked as if he simply had to score on 34 minutes when sent through by Youssouf Fofana, had drawn out Emil Audero, only to incredibly drill wide of the empty net from nine yards.
Christian Pulisic also sprung the offside trap on another wonderful Fofana pass, but this time Audero came flying out and managed to get a fingertip to the American’s finish. On the resulting corner, Rabiot nodded just over the bar.
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 01: Adrien Rabiot of AC Milan runs with the ball during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AC Milan at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Vardy’s strike was charged down in the area by Fikayo Tomori and a Luperto effort deflected over, but Leao wasted another golden opportunity when prodding the Rabiot assist over from six yards as Audero rushed off his line to narrow the angle.
Jari Vandeputte ballooned over from the edge of the box on an Alessio Zerbin pull-back, while Niclas Fullkrug failed to get the tap-in on a Leao roll across, falling awkwardly in the process.
Filippo Terracciano felled former teammate Leao and was booked, so will be suspended for the relegation battle against Lecce, while Fullkrug had penalty appeals waved away for a tussle with Luperto.
Maignan made a tricky one-handed save on the Luperto header going under the bar from a free kick, and Fullkrug couldn’t keep his header down on a Modric cross from a corner.
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 01: Strahinja Pavlovic of AC Milan celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AC Milan at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Davide Bartesaghi went off clutching the back of his right thigh after earning a corner, but as the set play was taken short and Modric whipped in the cross, Koni De Winter glanced it with his head, it struck Pavlovic on the face and shoulder before going in at the back post. Milan rushed to celebrate with Bartesaghi, who was still being helped off the field by medical staff.
Cremonese were unbalanced seeking an equaliser and conceded another on the counter in stoppages. Fullkrug flicked on the ball for Christopher Nkunku to sprint from the centre-circle, rolling across for Leao to sweep in from eight yards with the inside of the right boot.
Roma have confirmed that they will be without Matias Soule and Mario Hermoso for Sunday’s Serie A crunch match against Juventus, but Paulo Dybala is with the squad and could feature against the Old Lady.
Roma currently find themselves in fourth place in the Serie A table with 50 points after 26 matches, while Juventus sit four points shy of them in sixth place, having been overtaken by Como on Saturday night.
Juventus defender Gleison Bremer and Roma forward Paulo Dybala (@juventusfcen)
Soule is still struggling with a pubalgia issue, which ruled him out of last weekend’s 3-0 victory over Cremonese and will also keep him sidelined for the Juventus test on Sunday. Hermoso is still nursing an impact injury to his foot, which has made him miss the last three league fixtures.
Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson are also ruled out, but Donyell Malen would have been expected to start at centre-forward regardless.
Dybala has also missed the last four Serie A matches with a knee injury, but has trained with his teammates in the days leading up to the Juventus match and has been included in Gasperini’s matchday squad. He remains unlikely to start, but could feature as a second-half substitute.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma celebrates a goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on January 18, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Stephan El Shaarawy has also returned to the squad after missing out on the last six league matches with an achilles issue.
A £104million loss, soaring wages, and heavy transfer debts show a club gambling on Premier League survival it can’t guarantee. West Ham United’s newly published accounts make one thing painfully clear: the club is standing far closer to the financial edge than many supporters might like to believe. A £104.2 million loss — their biggest […]
Arsenal receive Chelsea in a Matchday 28 clash during the 2025/2026 Premier League campaign. Below, you’ll find essential details, including kickoff times and complete viewing options across TV and streaming platforms.
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With the Premier League title race heating up, the pressure is mounting on first-place Arsenal(61 points) after Manchester City closed the gap with a win over Leeds United, tightening the race at the top. Now the Gunners must respond in a marquee showdown against Chelsea.
The Blues are fighting tooth and nail with Manchester United and Liverpool for the final Champions League spot and simply can’t afford to drop points. With massive implications for both the title chase and the top-four battle, this blockbuster clash has all the ingredients of a season-defining moment!
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Former Inter and Italy star Beppe Bergomi believes that Federico Dimarco is among the best players in the world in his position and has identified ‘the thing that stands out the most’ about the Nerazzurri wing-back during his magnificent 2025-26 campaign.
Dimarco is now up to a staggering 21 goal involvements from 25 appearances in Serie A from left wing-back. He added his sixth league goal of the season to his tally during Saturday’s 2-0 win over Genoa in San Siro.
Dimarco also has 15 assists to his name in the league and is only one away from matching the all-time Serie A record for assists in a single season.
There have been some suggestions that the Italy international could win the league’s MVP award at the end of the 2025-26 season.
Bergomi on Dimarco: ‘He is one of the greatest in the world’
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Federico Dimarco of FC Internazionale scores their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Speaking in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Bergomi had nothing but positive things to say about the Nerazzurri wing-back.
“He’s having an extraordinary season this year, but he’s always done well over the last four years. He’s been great for the national team, he’s scored a lot of goals. He’s already shown great qualities before.
“The thing that stands out the most this year is that he plays lots of games for the full 90 minutes. In recent years he struggled with that, so in my opinion, Cristian Chivu’s management has been very good.”
Bergomi went on to give a specific example of Chivu’s man-management skills: “In the Coppa Italia against Torino, he didn’t even call him up, he left him at home. Why? It makes you understand the status that the lad has reached. The coach considers him one of the most important players and so rests him for certain games.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – MARCH 01: Beppe Bergomi looks on during the Serie A match between Cagliari and FC Internazionale at Sardegna Arena on March 1, 2019 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
“Cristian maybe takes a few more risks. He lets some youngsters play, like Cocchi who made his debut in the Coppa Italia. So this allows Federico to catch his breath, and when Federico takes a breather, he tends to do well and finds himself in top condition. Then he becomes decisive in games, through goals, assists, free-kicks and corners – He takes them in an incredible way.
“What I also notice is that when you’re doing better physically, you defend even better as well. You can perform better in both phases.”
“They seemed tired last year,” Bergomi commented. “They had to play a lot of games at the highest level. I don’t know if there was a problem between the coach and player. The important thing in these situations is to maintain a certain type of level throughout the season, which isn’t easy.
“But from what I notice, he’s doing fine physically and mentally. I see him looking great, cal, and he has kept that wonderful boot of his.”
Bergomi was asked whether he feels Inzaghi did as best as he could when managing Dimarco.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 02: Simone Inzaghi, Head Coach of FC Internazionale, looks on from the dugout prior to the Coppa Italia Semi Final match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on April 02, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
He replied: “I have nothing against Inzaghi’s management. Simone made him blossom, ,he helped him have some incredible seasons.
“This year, the nice thing is that he plays full games regularly. It might be a difference in preparation, it might be that he has an extra physical trainer to work individually. It might also be the case that, mentally speaking, that month off he had was useful for him to restart.”
Bergomi went on to explain what he thinks is Dimarco’s best quality on the pitch: “The fact that he increases the quality in both a four-man and a three-man defence, but he is undoubtedly best as a wing-back.”
Bergomi also had his say on where he thinks Dimarco ranks among the best players in the world in his position.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“I’ve always had my own particular conception on what the strongest in the world is. The fact is that it depends so much on historical moments. For me, the greatness of a player is shown in their continuity. Why do we talk about Messi or Ronaldo? Because they have been at the absolute top for 20 years.
“Dimarco’s value will therefore only be judged at the end of his career. Today, we can say that in terms of his ability, the way that he crosses, the way he shoots on goal and the amount of assists he provides, he is one of the greatest in the world.”
Luciano Spalletti has confirmed a streamlined squad of 21 players to take on Roma away in Serie A on Sunday evening in a game that has been dubbed a ‘play-off’ for a place in the Champions League positions.
Just four points separate the two sides ahead of kick-off. Roma currently occupy sixth place with 50 points from 26 matches so far in 2025-26, while Juventus now find themselves in sixth on 46 points from 26 matches.
The Bianconeri have only picked up one point from their last three matches in Serie A and find themselves in need of a win against Roma if they are to keep their hopes of qualifying for next season’s Champions League alive. A loss will mean Roma going seven points clear of the Old Lady in fourth place.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Manuel Locatelli of Juventus FC looks dejected at the end of the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Como 1907 at on February 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Spalletti will be without his captain, Maneul Locatelli, through suspension at the Stadio Olimpico, which means that Teun Koopmeiners is expected to start alongside Khephren Thuram in the middle of the park.
Gleison Bremer has been included in the squad despite missing out on the last two matches.
Dusan Vlahovic, Emil Holm and Arkadiusz Milik remain unavailable through injury.
Confirmed Juventus squad for Roma
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Head Coach Luciano Spalletti looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Allianz Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
Milan director Igli Tare reminds fans that their target for this season was always Champions League qualification, so they ‘look to the future with great enthusiasm’ despite recent setbacks.
Their trip to Cremonese kicks off at the Stadio Giovanni Zini in Cremona at 11.30 GMT (12.30 CET).
The Rossoneri have stumbled in recent weeks and fell 10 points behind leaders Inter, 13 following last night’s Nerazzurri victory over Genoa, so the pressure is on to keep up the pace.
With the Derby della Madonnina coming up next weekend, the Scudetto race may well be over already by early March.
Tare looks at the big picture for Milan
UDINE, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 20: Igli Tare, Sporting director of AC Milan looks on prior to the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AC Milan at Stadio Friuli on September 20, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
“Looking at last season’s results, our objective was to bring stability, to build a team that can achieve important objectives like Champions League qualification. In that sense, I think the club and squad have done a good job,” Tare told DAZN Italia.
“Don’t forget more than 12 new players arrived, so it is a new project, some points can be dropped along the way, but we remain concentrated, and above all aware we must look to the future with great enthusiasm.”
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 15: Mike Maignan of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and AC Milan at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 15, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Milan were unbeaten since the opening weekend, until last week’s surprise 1-0 home defeat to Parma, with some refereeing controversy over how the decisive goal was allowed.
“In football, we have seen anything is possible. A defeat cannot remove the belief we built over six consecutive months. We also saw how that defeat happened, without getting into controversy,” added Tare.
“We have the chance now to play a good game and prepare for the derby with enthusiasm.”
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 15: AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri issues instructions to his players during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and AC Milan at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 15, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Max Allegri said that there were often different ideas within the club on how to build going forward, so how is Tare forming the squad?
“We work as a unit, sharing ideas, and knowing that next season will be different to this one, with additional commitments. Milan must be competitive for next season too. If you don’t manage to find a way through, then that is a problem, so while there might be different ideas, the most important thing is the good of Milan,” concluded Tare.
Former Italy national team head coach Roberto Mancini has commented on the developing situation in the Middle East after he heard explosions from his current home in Qatar: ‘There has been a massive deployment of forces here in the Gulf. We were afraid that something would happen’.
Former Italy head coach Mancini reports from Qatar: ‘An alarm started ringing, shortly afterwards, the explosions began’
Mancini is currently housebound in Doha, Qatar, where he is the head coach of Qatar Stars League side Al Sadd.
Roberto Mancini joins Al-Sadd (@alsaddsc)
The former Italy, Inter and Manchester City head coach has told Tg1 that he received an emergency alert notification on his phone while he was in Church, telling him to return home and remain there until further notice.
“An alarm on my phone started ringing, the message was written in Arabic, there were five or six of them. Shortly afterwards, the explosions began” Mancini told Tg1 from his home in Doha.
“We were at mass, the alerts came in when we were in church,” Mancini explained. “They said to go home immediately and to stay there.”
Mancini is 61 years old, but still has his parents at the forefront of his thoughts in these difficult circumstances: “My mother called me, she was worried. I told her to stay calm, at least for now.
“There has been a massive deployment of forces here in the Gulf. We were afraid that something would happen. We hoped that diplomacy would dissolve the tensions. Now let’s hope for the best.”
Tra gli italiani che vivono con preoccupazione l’evolversi della situazione, c’è anche l’ex CT della Nazionale, Roberto #Mancini. La sua testimonianza da #Doha.#Tg1 Alessandra Barone pic.twitter.com/ybEiZstbqz
Legendary former referee Pierluigi Collina has had his say on a number of upcoming VAR and refereeing changes that are expected to come into effect in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America: ‘The goal is to eliminate timewasting as much as possible’.
Collina explains upcoming VAR and refereeing changes
Collina is a member of the UEFA Referees Committee and is Chair of the FIFA Referees Committee. He was in attendance for the annual general meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB) in Wales on Saturday.
The IFAB is responsible for overseeing and determining the laws of the game. Its members met in Wales on Saturday to discuss and decide upon a number of changes, including new measures to combat timewasting and allowing VAR to intervene on second yellow card decisions instead of just for straight red card incidents.
“The goal is to eliminate, or to eliminate as much as possible, timewasting that hinders the spectacle of the game,” Collina told La Gazzetta dello Sport about the upcoming changes that were decided upon on Saturday.
WASHINGTON, DC – DECEMBER 05: Pierluigi Collina, Chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee, attends the FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Draw at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on December 05, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)
“Last year we introduced the ‘eight second rule’ for goalkeepers, which has been a great success. There have been very few cases where a corner has been granted. The deterrent has worked.
“Considering the amount of time that is lost through so many goal-kicks and free-kicks, we thought we needed to find a solution.”
Another rule that will be introduced at the FIFA World Cup is a 10-second limit for players to leave the field after a substitution has been called. If players fail to leave the pitch within the allocated 10 seconds, the replacement substitute will not be permitted to enter until the next stoppage in play, or until one minute of action has passed.
“We already did something, making substitutes leave the pitch from the nearest point. The time limit is a more effective deterrent than the yellow card, which is sometimes seen as some sort of ‘deal’,” Collina said. ”The results in recent years in MLS show that this measure works,” he added.
Importantly, VAR will now be able to intervene on second yellow card decisions, which had not previously been the case.
Just two weeks ago in Serie A, Pierre Kalulu was incorrectly sent off for a second bookable offence in one of the biggest matches of the season, the Derby d’Italia between Inter and Juventus, but the referee Federico La Penna was unable to refer the incident for review. This will no longer be the case as it was not a straight red card incident.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Pierre Kalulu of Juventus reacts as he walks off after being sent off by Referee Federico La Penna (not pictured) for a second yellow card offence during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Some might argue that it should always have been the case that VAR is able to intervene on second yellow card offences and not just for straight red card incidents.
“When we decided on the VAR trial in 2016, the technology was very different,” Collina explained. “The protocol was written from scratch and took inspiration from other sports, such as rugby, and video officials had no prior experience. Today, the situation is very different.
“We’ve been discussing it for a few years and unfortunately until now, some had not considered it to be a priority, which is a shame.”
VAR will now also be able to review corner kick decisions, which had not previously been the case.
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – DECEMBER 22: A detailed view of a corner flag inside the stadium prior to the Supercoppa Italiana Final between SSC Napoli and Bologna FC 1909 at King Saud University Stadium on December 22, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
“A corner is a resumption of play that always takes a certain amount of time,” Collina said. “Usually you have to wait until the centre-backs go up and the kicker often has to cross the length of the pitch. In that time, it could be the case that by simply looking at an image, you realise the decision was wrong.
“Does it make sense to let the corner go and hope that a goal isn’t scored? It’s much better to correct the initial decision and postpone it.”
Newcastle United goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos has been linked with a move away from the club at the end of the season.
The 31-year-old is currently on loan at La Liga club Sevilla, and he wants to join them permanently. He has already expressed his desire to leave Newcastle permanently.
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Odysseas Vlachodimos needs to leave
The goalkeeper joined Newcastle in a £20 million deal, but he has struggled for opportunities with Newcastle. He played just 45 minutes of football with them before sealing a season-long loan at Sevilla in August last year.
He has been a very important player for the Spanish club, and it is no surprise that he wants to join them permanently. The Greek international is at the peak of his career, and he will not want to sit on the bench at Newcastle next season.
Meanwhile, the player has also made his feelings clear, admitting that he is enjoying his football with Sevilla, and he has already spoken to the club president and the sporting director regarding his future.
The 31-year-old admits that his future is uncertain because he has a contract with the English club, and they will ultimately make the final decision. However, it is clear that he is looking for a fresh start at Sevilla.
Odysseas Vlachodimos pictured during the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Newcastle United FC (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
He said (h/t SportWitness): “I think it’s clear that I enjoy playing every match with this team. I’ll try to give my best every day, and that makes me feel very happy.
“I spoke with the manager, the president, and the sporting director about the club’s situation in LaLiga. But for me, the most important thing from day one is that this experience has been a gift since I arrived.
“The truth is, I still have a contract with Newcastle and they decide, I don’t know what will happen in the future.
“I really don’t think I can answer these questions about the future. I truly don’t know what’s going to happen this summer. Honestly, I have a contract with Newcastle.
“I don’t know what their plans will be when the season ends. We’ll see what happens then. I really don’t have an answer.”
He is not a key player for the Magpies. It will be interesting to see if Newcastle are prepared to sanction his departure at the end of the season. It would make sense for them to sell the player. They already have two goalkeepers at their disposal, and the Greek international will not get any opportunities if he returns to the club next season.
Hugo Ekitike scored and provided two assists as Liverpool bolstered their top-four hopes with an entertaining 5-2 victory over West Ham. A lively away performance from West Ham was not enough to deny Arne Slot’s men at Anfield, as they moved level on points with fourth-placed Manchester United in the Premier League table. Liverpool scored […]
Manchester United square off against Crystal Palace in a Matchday 28 clash during the 2025/2026 Premier League campaign. Below, you’ll find essential details, including kickoff times and complete viewing options across TV and streaming platforms.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Manchester United vs Crystal Palace on US television and via legal streaming:
The push for European qualification is reaching a boiling point, and Manchester Unitedhead into their next test with little room for error. Tied on 48 points with Liverpool —who boosted their standing with a win over West Ham.
Now, United are locked in a tense race where a single point could decide Champions League dreams. Awaiting them is a hungry Crystal Palace squad still fighting to create separation from the relegation zone. With major implications at both ends of the table, this is one showdown you won’t want to miss.
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Milan hope Rafael Leao, Christian Pulisic and Luka Modric can secure revenge against Jamie Vardy’s Cremonese and keep up with leaders Inter ahead of the derby.
PISA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 13: Massimiliano Allegri manager of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and AC Milan at Arena Garibaldi on February 13, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The pressure is on the Rossoneri to keep up the pace with Inter, who beat Genoa 2-0 last night to temporarily extend the gap to 13 points.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek suffered a nasty facial fracture in that game and will be out for two months, while Matteo Gabbia pulled up in the warm-up of that match and is still out of action.
Santiago Gimenez is the long-term absentee, but Leao and Pulisic reunite in attack, with support from Modric, Adrien Rabiot and returning Youssouf Fofana.
There is also danger, as Fofana, Rabiot, Alexis Saelemaekers and Zachary Athekame are one yellow card away from suspension for the derby with Inter.
PISA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 13: Christian Pulisic and Luka Modric of AC Milan celebrates the victory after during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and AC Milan at Arena Garibaldi on February 13, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Cremonese might’ve started the season strong, but they’ve had disastrous recent form, managing four draws in the last 12 rounds.
Their last victory was 2-0 against Lecce on December 7 and it’s clear where the problems lie, scoring just three goals ever since.
Federico Baschirotto, Faris Moumbagna and Michele Collocolo are all injured, but Romano Floriani Mussoli returns to the bench.
Vardy was dropped last week against Roma, but returns to the starting XI this morning instead of January signing Milan Djuric.
It is a special game for Filippo Terracciano and Warren Bondo, who are on loan from Milan, but on the bench initially.
CREMONA, ITALY – JANUARY 19: Jamie Vardy of US Cremonese reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Giovanni Zini on January 19, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) have decided to change the rules on VAR intervention for second yellow card offences, just two weeks after the controversial sending off of Pierre Kalulu during the Derby d’Italia between Inter and Juventus in Serie A.
No more ‘Kalulu incidents’: VAR rules on second yellow cards to change
Football’s lawmakers have voted in favour of changing or adapting a number of rules at its annual general meeting in Wales on Saturday.
Among the most prominent of the rule changes is that VAR will soon be able to intervene for second yellow card offences, which will spare players who have been incorrectly been sent off for a second bookable offence.
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 11: Match referee, Daniele Doveri shows Antonio Conte, Head Coach of SSC Napoli, (not pictured) a red card during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
VAR was unable to intervene as this was not a straight red card offence, and Juventus, who had been level at 1-1 in the derby at the time, went on to lose 3-2 despite being on top in the period leading up to Kalulu’s sending off.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Pierre Kalulu of Juventus reacts as he walks off after being sent off by Referee Federico La Penna (not pictured) for a second yellow card offence during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The IFAB, which oversees the laws of the game, has decided to change the rules so that referees will be able to review second yellow card offences, which they had not previously been permitted to do.
It is expected that this rule will be implemented during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to Sky Sports, the IFAB has also extended VAR powers to check corner kicks and have taken new measures to prevent time wasting.
Inter head coach Cristian Chivu hit back at the ‘narrative’ that he feels has been cast on his side by the media in Italy after Saturday evening’s 2-0 win over Genoa in Serie A: ‘Nothing to do with reality’.
Inter bounced back following their Champions League elimination at the hands of Bodo/Glimt earlier this week with a 2-0 win over Genoa in Serie A, which puts them 13 points clear of second-placed Milan ahead of their game against Cremonese on Sunday afternoon.
The Nerazzurri are the clear favourites to walk away with the Serie A title at the end of the 2025-26 season, which would be their third Scudetto in six seasons if they were to finish the current campaign at the top of the table. For Chivu, it would be his first league title in his first full season as a head coach.
Chivu fires back after Inter criticism
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Cristian Chivu looks on during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Chivu was keen to remind reporters of Inter’s recent successes during his post-match press conference following Saturday’s win over Genoa, in spite of the fact that his side were eliminated in the Champions League play-off round at the hands of Norwegian minnows Bodo/Glimt earlier this week.
During an earlier TV interview, Chivu had claimed that for some, ‘whatever you do is never enough’ at Inter. When asked to explain what he meant during his post-match press conference, Chivu said: “This is a narrative that has nothing to do with reality.” (via fcinternews.it)
“Credit is not given despite the things that this team has done over the last four or five years. Nothing ever goes well, we’re used to it, but we move forwards. We want to be competitive in every way.”
Since the beginning of the 2020-21 season, Inter have won the Scudetto twice, are on course to win it for the third time, have won the Coppa Italia twice, the Supercoppa Italiana twice and have reached two Champions League finals.
Paulo Dybala and Gleison Bremer look set to make their returns to action as Roma host Juventus in a massive clash in the race for the Serie A top four on Sunday evening.
Four points separate the two sides ahead of kick-off, but sixth-placed Juventus find themselves needing a win to keep up with the fourth-placed Roma and to keep their hopes of landing a spot in next season’s Champions League alive.
Roma claimed a 3-0 victory over Cremonese last time out in Serie A and are also unbeaten across their last eight matches across all competitions and their last eight in the league as well.
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Evan Ndicka with his teammates of AS Roma celebrates after scoring the team’s second goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Cremonese at Stadio Olimpico on February 22, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
It has been a tougher few weeks for Juventus, who have not won any of their last three matches in Serie A, including costly defeats against Como and rivals Inter over the last two weekends. The Bianconeri were also eliminated from the Champions League earlier this week after a 7-5 aggregate defeat against Galatasaray.
Paulo Dybala has trained with his teammates ahead of kick-off but remains unlikely to start for Roma. Matias Soule will not take part due to an ongoing pubalgia issue, but the in-form Donyell Malen is still expected to lead the Giallorossi attack.
Mario Hermoso is also injured in defence, which means that Daniele Ghilardi is expected to keep his place in the back three alongside Gianluca Mancini and Evan Ndicka.
Juventus are expected to stick with a back four on Sunday evening, and pre-match reports suggest that Gleison Bremer will be fit enough to start.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 12: Fabio Miretti of Juventus FC celebrtaes a goal with team mate Bremer during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Cremonese at Allianz Stadium on January 12, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Captain Manuel Locatelli is suspended, which means that Teun Koopmeiners is set to partner Khephren Thuram in the middle of the Bianconeri midfield. Kenan Yildiz and Francisco Conceicao are the likely candidates to support Jonathan David in attack.
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Villa long-term admirers of Nicolas Jackson
Aston Villa also wanted to sign the player at the start of the season and held talks with Chelsea. However, the two clubs were unable to reach an agreement, and the striker eventually joined Bayern Munich on loan. He has played just 22 games for them across all competitions and has not been a starter in most of them.
The player has scored 5 goals for the German champions this season, but he could be a very useful acquisition for Aston Villa. He has shown his quality in the Premier League with Chelsea, and there is no doubt he could help Aston Villa improve.
Nicolas Jackson gestures during Bayern Munich vs Hamburg (Photo by Adam Pretty/Getty Images)
The West Midlands club are looking to get rid of Ollie Watkins in the summer, and Jackson could be a quality replacement. He could form a solid partnership with former Chelsea star Tammy Abraham at the West Midlands club.
Aston Villa certainly have the finances to get the deal across the line, and Chelsea are unlikely to stand in his way.
It remains to be seen whether both clubs can finalise an agreement this time around.
The striker is likely to be attracted to the idea of joining Aston Villa, especially if they finish in the top four. They are currently pushing for Champions League qualification, and they are third in the league table.
Aston Villa need to keep improving the team if they want to compete at this level regularly. Emery will be hoping to guide them to Champions League football and fight for domestic trophies. Jackson could be a very useful option for them.
Newcastle United are looking to improve the attacking unit at the end of the season, and they have identified Jean-Philippe Mateta from Crystal Palace as a target.
According to reports via Coming Home Newcastle, the French attacker is a target for Newcastle as they look to add more Premier League experience to the team.
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Newcastle keen on Jean-Philippe Mateta
Mick Brown said: “Mateta is definitely on their radar at Newcastle. It looks like he’s going to be available, Palace are willing to let him go, and there are a lot of clubs who are going to be sitting up and taking notice.
“He’s shown at Palace for a couple of years now that he can perform and score goals in the Premier League, his track record proves how good he’s been.
“He’s a France international as well, so where are they going to go to get a striker of that ilk? Especially one who is available and knows the league.
“That’s always something Newcastle look at, Eddie Howe likes to sign players who are proven in the Premier League to reduce the time it takes for them to adapt.
“Newcastle want to sign a new striker, a goalscorer, because the options they’ve got at the moment haven’t been consistent enough and have struggled.
“I don’t think Mateta is a perfect forward, there are a few concerns I have around him, but the scouting team at Newcastle will weigh up the pros and cons.”
Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace warming up (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
Newcastle have already invested in two strikers at the start of the season, and it will be interesting to see if they are willing to sign the 28-year-old from Crystal Palace.
The striker has 10 goals to his name this season, and there is no doubt that he could be a very useful acquisition for Newcastle if they can get the deal done.
The opportunity to join them could be exciting for him. They have an ambitious project, and they are one of the richest clubs in the world.
Newcastle have had a disappointing season, and they are fighting for a place in the top half. Adding more quality to the attacking unit will only help them improve further. It remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done.
Newcastle United crashed to a thrilling defeat against Everton in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon, and manager Eddie Howe was left frustrated after the result.
Meanwhile, Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope produced an error which led to an Everton goal in the first half. After the game, the Newcastle manager was asked about Pope, but he refused to comment on any individual players and said the team would have to take collective responsibility and defend better.
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Eddie Howe on Newcastle defeat
“Extremely frustrating,” he said (h/t Shields Gazette). “We worked hard to get back into the game twice. Everton aren’t easy to score against, so chasing it took a lot out of us.
“Then we undo it with avoidable mistakes. The second one especially hurt us mentally.
“From the start of the second half up until our goal, we were dominant. But those lapses cost us.”
Nick Pope of Newcastle United (Photo by Jack Thomas/Getty Images)
However, the Newcastle manager suggested he could look to make changes to the team selection following a player’s mistakes. It will be interesting to see if Pope is dropped in the coming matches for Newcastle. Pope has been linked with an exit in recent months.
Howe said: “You can look at the person that makes a mistake, but then you’ve got to go back a bit further than that and go, why has that happened? What’s the reason? Of course, team selection is key for me. That’s my power that I have to make changes.”
The Magpies have now lost 3 league matches in a row at home, and this is the first time that has happened since Eddie Howe took charge of the club in November 2021.
It will be interesting to see if Newcastle can bounce back strongly in the coming weeks. They are a quality team with quality players, and they should be doing a lot better.
They were expected to push for Champions League qualification this season, but things have not gone according to plan.
It has been a disappointing season for Newcastle, and they will look to finish as strongly as possible. The players will have to cut out individual mistakes to do well.
Newcastle are currently 12th in the league table, and it remains to be seen whether they can secure European qualification for next season.
Ollie Watkins celebrates scoring for Aston Villa against Bournemouth (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
The striker has 8 goals to his name in the Premier League this season, and there is no doubt that he could be a quality acquisition for the right team. At 30, he is not getting any better, but he could still be a very useful acquisition in the right team.
It will be interesting to see if any club is willing to come forward and pay £30 million for him. Aston Villa are currently pushing for Champions League qualification, and they will need better players if they want to sustain this level. They need a reliable striker who can find the back of the net regularly.
Meanwhile, the 30-year-old will look to improve on his recent performances and help Aston Villa finish the season strongly. They will need him to step up and deliver if they want to finish in the top 4 this season. Watkins is still a very good player, and he could be a game-changer for Aston Villa if he manages to regain his form and confidence in the remaining months of the season.
Massimiliano Allegri is expected to stick with an attacking line-up of Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic when Milan take on Cremonese at the Stadio Giovanni Zini in Serie A on Sunday afternoon.
This game will begin in the early kick-off slot at 11.30 GMT (12.30 CET).
Hosts Cremonese are without a win in 12 Serie A matches ahead of kick-off against Milan and fell to a 3-0 defeat away against Roma at the Stadio Olimpico last weekend.
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Bryan Cristante of AS Roma in action during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Cremonese at Stadio Olimpico on February 22, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Despite a strong start to the season following their promotion from Serie B, Davide Nicola’s side currently find themselves in 17th place in the league table, level on points with Lecce in the relegation zone.
Cremonese are one of only two teams to have beaten Milan in Serie A so far this season, though. That victory came in the opening weekend of the 2025-26 season in San Siro, and the Rossoneri have since slipped to their second league defeat of the season at home against Parma last weekend.
MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 23: Federico Baschirotto of Cremonese scores his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Cremonese at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Leao and Pulisic started against Parma and are expected to keep their places in the Rossoneri attack despite their lack of goals last weekend.
Youssouf Fofana is expected to return to the midfield in place of the injured Ruben Loftus-Cheek. He is expected to be joined by Luka Modric and Adrien Rabiot.
Matteo Gabbia is not quite ready to make his return to the starting line-up, so Fikayo Tomori, Koni De Winter and Strahinja Pavlovic are the three expected to start at the back. Alexis Saelemaekers is also likely to go again at right wing-back despite being a booking away from suspension.
Milan (3-5-2): Maignan; Tomori, De Winter, Pavlovic; Saelemaekers, Fofana, Modric, Rabiot, Bartesaghi; Leao, Pulisic.
Where to watch Cremonese vs. Milan
FEBRUARY 22: AC Milan team line up during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Today’s game will be available to watch live in the UK exclusively on DAZN. Supporters in the USA are able to tune in via Paramount+.
Join us for all the pre-match build-up, in-game coverage and post-match reactions on the Football Italia Liveblog.
Eighth victory in a row. Magic from the wing-hack: ‘It wasn’t easy to restart after the ko against Bodo. Calha seals the 2-0.
Milan on the attack ahead of the Derby
Market: A step away from Andre, operation of 17 million
Juve risk more
The Champions League fight against Roma is as hot as a play-off
Lukaku goal and tears
Romelu decides it in Verona: ‘I was dead’
Napoli wins in the final minute, Como hat-trick, overtaken Spalletti
VAR changes
Will intervene on corners and double yellow cards. Collina: ‘Football is most fair like this’
Corriere dello Sport
Supermancino
Inter leave a gap
Scudetto in their grasp: Genoa beaten (2-0) Leao and Pulisic in Cremona at 11.30
Dimarco out of this world, Chivu pushes Milan down to -13
Federico’s fantastic season continues, scoring his sixth goal: Assists up to 14. Calha from the penalty spot closes the account. The Derby on Sunday
Lucio under siege
Roma-Juve (19.45): Play-off for a spot in the Champions League
Gasperini could leap up to +7 on Spalletti, now sixth and overtaken by Como (3-1 against Lecce). Pellegrini behind Malen. Dybala out. The Bianconeri have only picked up one point in their last three games. Kalulu cold on Bastoni: ‘I haven’t heard from him since that incident’
Lukaku, Napoli emotions
Big Rom comes on and settles it in the 96th minute: Conte wins 2-1 in Verona
Hojlund immediately unlocks it, Akpa-Akpro finds the 1-1. The Belgian in tears after the death of his father: Scored for the first time in 281 days
Change: No Kalulu case ever again
The rules change
Double yellow: IFAB changes the VAR protocol, beginning at the World Cup. Collina: ‘The Inter-Juve nightmare could have been avoided in 10 seconds’
Udinese and Viola in the symbol of Astori
Eight years on from his death
United by Davide in Friuli tomorrow. A campaign for the prevention of cardiac arrests has been organised: Free check-ups
Tuttosport
Capital sentence
Roma-Juve at 19.45, Champions League decider
After disappointments and controversies, the Bianconeri are called upon to lift their heads and not lose out on fourth place, increasingly at risk. Finances, transfer window and future ambitions to be played for tomorrow as well. Gasperini could have been in Spalletti’s position. And now he’s returning to Koopneiners: ‘He’s strong, it’s not true that my former players go on to play badly’. Kalulu endorses Lucio’s contract extension and snubs Bastoni: ‘No, I haven’t heard from him, but it’s not like we were talking much in the first place’.
Supporters hard-nosed, D’Aversa too
Toro-Lazio at 17.00 in a stadium that is still half-empty
FantaDimarco, Inter go +13
2-0 against Genoa after the Euro-shock
Sensational goal from the wing-back, then the penalty from Calhanoglu for the eighth league victory in a row. Also celebrating in San Siro is multi-medalist Fontana. The derby on Sunday: Milan against Cremonese today to make up some of the ground
Como is beautiful! Lukaku in the 96th, goal and tears
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Elliot Anderson could fancy a move
Anderson is aware of the fact that he could be relegated from the Premier League with Nottingham Forest, and he will not want to compete in the second division of English football. He will want to stay in the top flight, and joining either of the two Manchester clubs would be ideal for him.
Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest paid £35 million in order to sign the striker, and they will look to make a substantial profit on him if he moves on in the summer.
Elliot Anderson in action for Nottingham Forest (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
The 23-year-old is a reliable performer in the Premier League, and he would greatly improve Manchester United. He could be the ideal long-term replacement for Casemiro, who will leave the club in the summer. Manchester United have looked vulnerable at the back, and signing a reliable defensive midfielder could solve that problem. He will help protect the defensive unit and allow the creative players to operate with more freedom.
At 23, there is plenty of room for development, and he could grow into a top-class player for the club.
Meanwhile, Manchester City could use more depth in the defensive midfield area as well. It will be interesting to see if they can get the deal done. They are probably better-placed to fight for major trophies, and it remains to be seen whether that makes a difference to the player when deciding his future.
Meanwhile, Newcastle invested in Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa during the summer transfer window. It will be interesting to see if they are prepared to invest in another striker in the summer. Nunez will demand regular football before joining the club. He has played in the Premier League before, and he could make an immediate impact. He did quite well for Liverpool during his time at the club, and he helped them win the Premier League title.
Darwin Nunez celebrates a goal for Al Hilal (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
The Uruguay international is versatile enough to operate as a striker and on the flanks. He is more than just a goal scorer, and he will add creativity to the team as well. In addition, he is a hardworking player who will help out defensively.
It will be interesting to see if Newcastle can beat the competition from European heavyweights and get the deal done. They need more quality and depth in the team if they want to secure Champions League qualification regularly and fight for trophies. Someone like Nunez could be a very handy option for them.
Meanwhile, they have an ambitious project, and they are one of the wealthiest clubs in the world. The South American forward could be tempted to join them.
Arsenal are hoping to sign Newcastle United attacker Anthony Gordon at the end of the season.
However, a report from Sky Sports has now claimed that he has four years remaining on his current contract with Newcastle. Initially, there were rumours that the player has two years left on his deal with the club. The latest report from Sky Sports will come as a blow for Arsenal.
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Anthony Gordon could cost a lot
Newcastle are likely to demand a lot more for the player, given his long-term contract with them. Arsenal were hoping to sign him for £75 million in the summer. It will be interesting to see if they are willing to submit an offer for Gordon in the summer.
The opportunity to join the Premier League leaders will be quite exciting for the player. He will look to compete at the highest level, and Arsenal could provide him with the platform to fight for major trophies. Even though Newcastle have an exciting project, they are not quite at the level required to fight for league titles or the UEFA Champions League.
Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
It remains to be seen whether the player is prepared to push for an exit in the summer. The opportunity to join Arsenal will be difficult to turn down for him. Meanwhile, the player has been linked with clubs like Liverpool in the past. It will be interesting to see if there is a competition for his signature in the summer.
Newcastle will not want to lose a player like him easily, and they could hold out for a premium. The 25-year-old has recorded 14 goals and five assists in all competitions this season.
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Senny Mayulu is a player in demand
Arsenal view him as a modern midfielder who could succeed Kai Havertz, Chelsea want him as part of their squad rebuild, and City admire his passing range and football intelligence. Aston Villa and Newcastle have also made informal approaches.
PSG are determined not to lose him for free. If no agreement is reached, they are expected to open negotiations at around €60 million, with the fee potentially rising to €65–70 million. A move to England would likely see his wages triple.
Scouting reports highlight Mayulu’s versatility: he can dictate play from midfield while contributing goals and assists, fitting the profile of a modern mezzala. His physical strength and success in duels suggest he is ready for the Premier League’s intensity.
Senny Mayulu of PSG celebrates after scoring a goal during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
The “most likely” scenarios are Arsenal or Chelsea making a decisive move this summer, while PSG may attempt a last‑minute push with a record salary offer. If no deal is struck by May, PSG will have little choice but to sell.
The 19-year-old French midfielder is highly rated across Europe, and he could develop into a top-class player with the right guidance. If Arsenal or Chelsea manage to secure his signature, they could have a future star on their hands. Both clubs have the financial muscle to get the deal across the line, and they would do well to sign a promising young player like him.
Manchester City cut Arsenal’s lead at the Premier League summit back to two points as Antoine Semenyo’s goal clinched a 1-0 win over Leeds United at Elland Road. Erling Haaland was unable to feature in the city of his birth after suffering a minor injury in training, and Pep Guardiola’s side initially struggled without their […]
Club America will take on Tigres UANL in a Matchday 8 clash of the Liga MX Clausura 2026 season. Below is all the essential information for this matchup, including kickoff times and complete broadcast coverage for TV and streaming viewers in the United States.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Club America vs Tigres UANL on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
Club America vs Tigres UANL
WHAT
Liga MX
WHEN
10:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM PT • Saturday, February 28, 2026
WHERE
DirecTV Stream, Paramount+, CBS Sports Golazo Network, Univision, TUDN, Amazon Prime Video and ViX
With the Liga MX playoff race tightening by the week, the spotlight turns to a crucial clash between Club America and Tigres UANL, two sides separated by just one spot in the standings as seventh-place America looks to build on the momentum of a dominant 4-0 win over Puebla.
Meanwhile, eighth-place Tigrestry to halt a troubling two-game skid that has put their postseason hopes under pressure; with every point now carrying massive weight in a crowded table, this showdown could significantly reshape the playoff picture, making it a must-watch battle you won’t want to miss.
More details about watching the game on DirecTV Stream
With DirecTV Stream, you can watch Club America vs Tigres UANL and tons more Liga MX games. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, Apple TV, Fire Stick as well as Google TV, Samsung and Peloton.
DirecTV Stream offers a free trial, and often shares with you a variety of different packages to choose from, so you can pick what suits you the best. That also includes packages filled with sports other than soccer including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL and more.
DirecTV Stream has 140+ channels of live TV and unlimited DVR. That includes all of the most important soccer-related channels such as NBC, FOX, ESPN, TNT, CBS as well as more niche soccer channels including FOX Deportes, Telemundo, Univision, TUDN and GolTV.
If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full DirecTV Stream soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.
To find out when soccer games are on, download the free Soccer TV Schedules App which includes listings of all of the live soccer matches available in the United States (available on Apple iOS devices and Android devices).
Pep Guardiola sounds ready to play against Real Madrid in Manchester City's next Champions League match.
Friday was the day for the Champions League to establish the round of 16 matches. Some ties could easily be finals, like the one Manchester City must play. Pep Guardiola was not discouraged by being drawn against Real Madrid.
Once Real Madrid’s victory over Benfica was confirmed, many voices from the club predicted the English side would be the opponent. In the end, they were right. After the event it was club legend Emilio Butragueño who complained about the pairing.
Guardiola had a different approach to the match. “For our club, the more we play against the best teams of this competition, the better. We’ll learn more, we’ll improve and we’ll be better in the future,” he said.
Guardiola’s description of Real Madrid
Real Madrid have not had the season they expected and even made an early managerial change, appointing Álvaro Arbeloa as interim for Xabi Alonso. That does not change Guardiola’s view.
Guardiola defeated Alonso in last December’s match (Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
The Spanish manager has had historic matches against Real Madrid, including epic El Clásico nights. This tie will not be new to him either, since he has faced European giants many times even after leaving his country.
Guardiola was respectful of his rivals even if they are not producing dazzling performances: “Since I was a player and a manager with Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City, Real Madrid have always had great players. It’s different than our last match because it was Alonso before, now it’s Arbeloa. We’ll see.”
Guardiola isn’t thinking about Real Madrid yet
The most important match of the Champions League could be this one, and everyone is anxious to see who moves on to the final eight. That is not Guardiola’s focus right now.
He laid out the immediate schedule to explain his priorities: “In the middle of the week we have Nottingham Forest, then Newcastle in the FA Cup. We have time to think about Real Madrid.”
LA Galaxy made an announcement regarding Marco Reus and his future in Major League Soccer.
Marco Reus is part of a long list of soccer stars who have left Europe in recent years to join Major League Soccer. The German midfielder is beginning his third season with LA Galaxy and has now made a decision about his future.
“The LA Galaxy announced today that the club has signed Marco Reus to a contract extension through December 2027,” the California club said in a statement published on its official website Saturday.
This is a key decision for LA Galaxy, who are looking to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season and need top-level players to do so. The absence of Riqui Puig, sidelined since late 2024 due to a knee injury that required two surgeries, has made Reus’ role even more important.
The 36-year-old German midfielder has recorded 9 goals and 13 assists for Galaxy since joining the club two years ago, across MLS, Leagues Cup, and Concacaf Champions Cup competitions. He also played a role in the club’s MLS title run in 2024, just months after arriving in the United States.
The journey continues ✍️
The LA Galaxy announced today that the club has signed Marco Reus to a contract extension through December 2027.
This season, Marco Reus remains an important player for LA Galaxy, having appeared in all three of the team’s matches so far. He started in the MLS opener against New York City FC, where he recorded an assist, and also in the second leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup first round against Sporting San Miguelito. A week earlier, in Panama, he came off the bench.
LA Galaxy value Marco Reus’ impact
Reus’ contract extension is reassuring news for fans, who will be able to enjoy his talent through at least the end of 2027. “Marco brings an incredible level of quality, experience, and leadership to our group,” Will Kuntz said in an interview shared by the club on its official website.
The LA Galaxy general manager praised not only Reus’ contributions on the field, but also his leadership off it: “His professionalism and daily standards elevate everyone around him, and his impact both in the locker room and on the pitch is immeasurable. We’re excited to have him continue playing such an important role for our club.”
Cristian Chivu insists ‘the Scudetto is not won yet’ after their eighth consecutive Serie A victory, beating Genoa 2-0. ‘We’ve had ups and downs, the players never grumble.’
The Nerazzurri needed a boost after the surprising Champions League elimination at the hands of Bodo/Glimt, as they lost both home and away legs of the play-off.
It was a tough slog to break down Genoa, as they needed a moment of Federico Dimarco magic with that volley, followed by a Hakan Calhanoglu penalty for Alex Amorim’s handling offence.
Chivu keeps Inter on their toes
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu gestures during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We were well aware of the importance of this match for what we’ve done and want to do in the final weeks of the season,” Chivu told Sky Sport Italia.
“I’ll take these three points, because it was not easy, we were facing a team in good shape that knows how to cause problems. It was out 16th game in 50-odd days, so we needed to keep it going.
“Dimarco is in his best form, helping us to achieve our ambitions, as are all the players.”
This result means Inter are momentarily 13 points clear at the top of the Serie A table, awaiting Milan’s match with Cremonese on Sunday, after eight consecutive victories.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s second from the penalty spot goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It is remarkable that Inter have won 14 of their last 15 Serie A games, but crashed out so sluggishly from the Champions League.
“We prepare every match in the best way, mentally and physically, treating every game the same way without looking at the name of our opponents,” explained Chivu.
“That is what we have been trying to do since the start of the season. There are 11 rounds to go, 33 points up for grabs, so the Scudetto is not won yet. We’ve had ups and downs, but want to build on all the good things we’ve done in the last two and a half months.”
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Nicolo’ Barella of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
They are also preparing for the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final against Como on Tuesday evening, then the Derby della Madonnina with Milan next weekend.
“All 24 players work hard and have a winning mentality, they never grumble, and always accept the reality of the situation whether it’s in Serie A, the Cup or Champions League. We want to be competitive, we’ve had ups and downs, but we have ambition and are in good shape,” assured Chivu.
Only twice before in their history, in 2006-07 and 2023-24, have the Nerazzurri picked up at least 67 points after 27 Serie A rounds.
Daniele De Rossi admits Genoa ‘have to accept Inter are better than us’ after a 2-0 defeat, but he has ‘hope’ they can escape relegation.
The Grifone were coming off a morale-boosting 3-0 victory over Torino, but knew that it would be a tougher task at San Siro against the runaway Serie A leaders.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Federico Dimarco of FC Internazionale scores their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Nonetheless, it took an extraordinary piece of skill to break the deadlock, when Federico Dimarco met Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s dinked pass for a sensational volley.
Hakan Calhanoglu doubled the lead from the spot after Alex Amorim’s handling offence in the second half, sealing the 2-0 result.
De Rossi expected more from Genoa
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Genoa CFC coach Daniele De Rossi reacts during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“I am not satisfied with our performance. We know Inter are the strongest team in Serie A, but we still didn’t do all that we could’ve done to cause them problems.
“I knew we’d need a perfect performance to bring home a result, we didn’t come here to lose, but we have to accept they are better than us.”
Genoa have managed to clamber out of the relegation zone with some positive results, but even strong performances were not enough to avoid defeats to Lazio, Napoli and now Inter.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Vitinha of Genoa CFC is pressured by Luis Henriqueof FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Our position in the table is still not good, but there is a long way to go,” added the coach.
“I think we are on the right track and have the quality it takes to get out of this situation, just look at how we played against Lazio and Napoli.”
Since taking the job on November 6 from Patrick Vieira, De Rossi has overseen five wins, six draws and six defeats in Serie A.
“There is a team in mind that I want to build, but the fact remains we don’t have much time to work on that, and the transfer window is closed too, so we have to work with what we’ve got.
“We’re on the right track, these lads are giving me hope,” concluded De Rossi.
Federico Dimarco insists his many goals and assists ‘won’t be worth much’ if Inter don’t win silverware, while Hakan Calhanoglu reveals he wasn’t meant to take the penalty against Genoa.
The mood in the Nerazzurri camp was poor after their midweek Champions League exit to Bodo/Glimt, having lost both home and away in the play-off.
It was also tough to break down Daniele De Rossi’s Genoa, as it required a sensational Dimarco volley from the tightest of angles to beat Justin Bijlow.
The 2-0 result was sealed in the second half by substitute Calhanoglu’s penalty, awarded for an Alex Amorim handling offence.
Dimarco and Calhanoglu focus on Inter silverware
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Federico Dimarco of FC Internazionale scores their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“It is never easy after a defeat, but every time this team has lost a match, it has got back on track stronger than before,” Dimarco told Sky Sport Italia.
“Some fatigue started to show in the second half, but we got the job done. It is a good season personally, but ultimately what matters is the team. If my goals and assists don’t lead to trophies, then they won’t be worth much.
“I’d prefer to have fewer goals and assists if it means we can win the league.”
Stop that Federico DiMarco.
An incredible volley puts Inter Milan 1-0 up against Genoa
It was not an entirely new experience for Dimarco, who scored a similar goal earlier in his career.
“It is tough to explain, I scored a similar one in Verona-Torino. I’m just glad the team won. I’ve been working hard, and hard work does pay off.”
This was Inter’s eighth consecutive Serie A victory, winning 14 of the last 15, yet that form was not replicated in the Champions League.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s second from the penalty spot goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The title could be put beyond reasonable doubt next weekend, when Inter and second-placed Milan go head-to-head in the Derby della Madonnina.
“There are no thoughts about the derby, we are thinking about Como first and then the derby,” concluded Dimarco.
That is because Inter will play Como on Tuesday in the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final.
“Federico Dimarco really wraps up all of Inter’s hard work and makes them dangerous.”@MikeGrella10 and Nigel Reo-Coker on why Dimarco could be Inter’s MVP this season pic.twitter.com/SObsVcZdEz
Calhanoglu revealed he was not originally meant to step up to the spot for that penalty after coming off the bench, as Piotr Zielinski was the designated taker.
“I was out for a few months, so it was only right to leave the penalty to Zielinski, but he said I could do it. I still need to find match fitness, but I feel good,” Calhanoglu told Sky Sport Italia.
“We are trying to focus on our own path. Winning is important, we want to keep going like this.”
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has called for greater tolerance and understanding after a section of Leeds United supporters booed a temporary pause in play intended to allow Muslim players to break their Ramadan fast.
The incident occurred during City’s narrow 1-0 victory at Elland Road, where the match was halted in the 13th minute to accommodate players observing the holy month.
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Pep Guardiola on Leeds fans’ booing the pause for Ramadan fast break
(Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Following the sunset at approximately 5:42 PM, referee paused the match for 78 seconds to allow players, including City’s Rayan Aït-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, and Omar Marmoush, to take on fluids and nutrition.
Despite a clear explanatory message displayed on the stadium’s big screen, audible jeers rang out from the home stands.
“It is a modern world, right?” a frustrated Guardiola told reporters after the match.
“Respect religion, respect diversity, that is the point. The Premier League said you can have one or two minutes for the players to do it. It is what it is, unfortunately. What is the problem?”
Guardiola confirmed that the stoppage was essential for his players’ welfare, noting that Cherki and Aït-Nouri had not eaten all day and needed to take on vitamins and hydration to continue competing at the highest level.
The anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out released a scathing statement following the match, labeling the reaction from the Elland Road crowd as “massively disappointing”.
“It’s massively disappointing that some Leeds United fans booed when Manchester City’s players broke their fast during the first half of the match at Elland Road this evening. This was compounded by the fact that an explanation was displayed on a big screen inside the stadium.
Pausing the game to allow Muslim players to break their fast during Ramadan has been an agreed protocol for several years now. It’s an important and visible part of making the game welcoming for Muslim players and communities.
But as tonight’s reaction shows, football still has a long way to go in terms of education and acceptance.”
Kick It Out statement:
It’s massively disappointing that some Leeds United fans booed when Manchester City’s players broke their fast during the first half of the match at Elland Road this evening. This was compounded by the fact that an explanation was displayed on a big…
Pep Guardiola has become very vocal recently about world issues
The Spaniard’s comments are part of a growing trend of him using his platform to address social and humanitarian concerns.
In recent weeks, Guardiola has been increasingly vocal, previously hitting back at Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s comments on immigration and speaking passionately about global conflicts in Palestine, Ukraine, and Sudan, which has resulted in speculation about his future at the club.
By demanding “honorable” conduct in stadiums, Guardiola continues to position himself as a leading voice for cultural empathy within the sport, insisting that the strength of the Premier League lies in its global diversity.
Crystal Palace and Everton have reportedly been alerted to the availability of KRC Genk’s rising star Zakaria El Ouahdi, with the Belgian club setting a firm valuation for the defender.
According to reports from Africa Foot, the Moroccan international is expected to leave Genk this summer as he seeks a new challenge in one of Europe’s major leagues.
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Crystal Palace and Everton eyeing Zakaria El Ouahdi
(Photo by Marko Lukunic/Pixsell/MB Media/Getty Images)
The 24-year-old right-back has emerged as a primary target for several ambitious clubs.
While Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart and Eredivisie giants PSV Eindhoven are closely monitoring his situation, the Premier League pair of Crystal Palace and Everton have shown “real interest” in bringing him to England.
Genk have reportedly slapped a €15 million (£12.5 million) price tag on the defender.
El Ouahdi has already informed the club’s management of his desire to move on at the end of the current campaign.
While he reportedly received a lucrative offer from the Russian league, the player is said to be prioritizing a “coherent sporting project” over financial gain, with the Premier League viewed as an ideal destination for his development.
Who is Zakaria El Ouahdi?
Zakaria El Ouahdi has enjoyed a breakout period in Belgium, establishing himself as one of the most dynamic full-backs in the Jupiler Pro League.
Known for his tactical discipline and ability to transition rapidly from defense to attack, he has become a mainstay in the Genk lineup since joining from RWDM in 2023.
This season has been particularly productive for the Moroccan, who has registered several goals and assists from his defensive berth.
Club
Appearances
Goals
Assists
KRC Genk
97
15
9
RWDM Brussels
56
8
5
Total
153
23
14
Zakaria El Ouahdi – Career stats by club – via Transfermarkt
His performances have been a key reason for Genk’s competitive showing in domestic and European competitions.
On the international stage, El Ouahdi was a standout performer for Morocco’s U23 side, helping them secure a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Although he narrowly missed out on the squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, his primary objective remains cementing a place in the senior Moroccan national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Liverpool are leading the race for Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Joao Neves, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Liverpool are planning to make a big offer for Neves, but there is interest in the 21-year-old Portugal international midfielder from Manchester City and Real Madrid, as well. Fichajes has noted: […]
Manchester United are interested in signing Nicolo Barella from Inter Milan in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Inter want €70 million for the Italy international central defender. Fichajes has noted: ‘Manchester United’s intention is to seize any market opportunity to secure the signing […]
Manchester United and Manchester City are competing with each other for Elliot Anderson, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Nottingham Forest, who could get relegated from the Premier League to the Championship at the end of the season, want €91 million for the former Newcastle United star. Fichajes […]
Liverpool and Newcastle United are interested in signing Luis Suarez from Sporting CP in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. Suarez has established himself as one of the best strikers in Europe, and both the Reds and the Magpies are keen on him. Fichajes has noted: ‘In England, two clubs have positioned themselves:: Liverpool […]
Lamine Yamal netted his first-ever career hat-trick in sublime style against Villarreal on Saturday, but the winger admitted after the match that he had endured a challenging period this season. Helped by his brilliant performance and a late goal from Robert Lewandowski, Barcelona cruised to a comfortable 4-1 victory at Camp Nou in Hansi Flick’s […]
Liverpool are leading the race for Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Joao Neves, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Liverpool are planning to make a big offer for Neves, but there is interest in the 21-year-old Portugal international midfielder from Manchester City and Real Madrid, as well. Fichajes has noted: […]
Manchester United are interested in signing Nicolo Barella from Inter Milan in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Inter want €70 million for the Italy international central defender. Fichajes has noted: ‘Manchester United’s intention is to seize any market opportunity to secure the signing […]
Manchester United and Manchester City are competing with each other for Elliot Anderson, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Nottingham Forest, who could get relegated from the Premier League to the Championship at the end of the season, want €91 million for the former Newcastle United star. Fichajes […]
Liverpool and Newcastle United are interested in signing Luis Suarez from Sporting CP in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. Suarez has established himself as one of the best strikers in Europe, and both the Reds and the Magpies are keen on him. Fichajes has noted: ‘In England, two clubs have positioned themselves:: Liverpool […]
Real Madrid and Barcelona are interested in signing Rodri from Manchester City in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The Spanish news outlet has claimed that Madrid, who have long wanted to sign the Spain international, believe that they could be able to sign Rodri for €50 million, but La Liga rivals Barcelona have […]
A ranking of the most valuable players in the world has Lamine Yamal at the top, ahead of Kylian Mbappe.
Most soccer fans and analysts would probably agree that the two biggest stars in the sport right now are Kylian Mbappeand Lamine Yamal. Nearly a decade apart in age and very different in style, both have earned central roles at Real Madrid and Barcelona, as well as with their respective national teams.
That status is also reflected in their market value. A recent list published by the specialized website Football Benchmark places Yamal as the most valuable player in the world, with an estimated valuation of €286.8 million (around $338 million).
The winger’s youth — he is just 18 years old — is a key factor in that assessment, but so is his current form. Despite his inexperience, Lamine already wears Barcelona’s No. 10 jersey and is one of the team’s main stars. He is a regular with the Spain national team and finished second in the 2025 Ballon d’Or voting.
Second on the list is Kylian Mbappe, with an estimated value of €232.2 million (approximately $274 million). While the French forward’s performances at both club and international level could arguably place him above Yamal, factors working against him include his age — he is 27 — and the fact that he joined Real Madrid as a free agent just a year and a half ago, making a short- or mid-term transfer unlikely.
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona challenges for the ball against Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid.
The top ten most valuable players in the world
According to Football Benchmark, behind Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe, the third-most valuable player in the world is Erling Haaland. The Norwegian striker for Manchester City is currently valued at around $243 million.
The top ten is rounded out by Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham ($209 million), Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka ($165 million), Liverpool’s Florian Wirtz ($163 million), Barcelona’s Pedri ($163 million), Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise ($157 million), Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior ($157 million), and Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala ($145 million).
What has been the most expensive transfer in soccer history?
These figures come from a study that considers variables such as performance, age, and resale potential in order to determine a player’s valuation. However, it is ultimately the actual fees clubs pay in transfers that define a player’s true market value.
Even so, these reports help put today’s players into perspective and highlight what past superstars represented in financial terms. That becomes clear when comparing Football Benchmark’s estimates with real transfer fees from previous years.
Among the current top ten, only two players — if hypothetically sold at their estimated values — would become the most expensive signing in soccer history. The €222 million that Paris Saint-Germain paid to Barcelona for Neymar in 2017 would only be surpassed by the current valuations attributed to Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe.
Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe and Barcelona's Lamine Yamal.
Lamine Yamal talked about an issue that was bothering after Barcelona defeated Villarreal with his first hat-trick.
Lamine Yamal continues to make history with records that will be hard to match. Almost everything he does feels new, because he is just 18 years old. His first hat-trick for Barcelona was one of those moments.
In a match against Villarreal that promised to be difficult, Barcelona solved the problem with a 4-1 victory. The standout player of the day was the winger, who scored three goals to keep his team in first place in La Liga.
Yamal showed his emotion after the match. The young player told Movistar that his injury had stopped him from enjoying his football: “People want you at 16 years old to score 100 goals. I wasn’t fine. It was a mix of everything, the groin pain. I wasn’t happy before, it showed. Since last week I have felt better, I smile while I play. I’m happy when I’m playing.”
Yamal on staying longer on the field
A long run of matches awaits Barcelona, with Atletico Madrid already waiting for the second leg of the Copa del Rey semifinal where Hansi Flick’s side need to overturn a four-goal deficit.
Yamal scored his first ever hat-trick (Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
For that tie Barcelona must produce a perfect performance to reach the final. To help with that, it was important to close the victory quickly so Flick could rest some players.
Yamal did not want to leave the field until he completed his hat-trick, as he told journalists after the game: “I told Flick to wait to substitute me out for the goal, the third one. Not the team’s third goal, luckily it was mine.”
Yamal’s emotional gift
Every player who scores a hat-trick receives the match ball from the referee. For players who have many, the gesture may not be very emotional, but for Yamal the ball was special. He gave the gift to his mother, as shown by Fabrizio Romano on social media.
Inter shrugged off Champions League disappointment to consolidate their huge Serie A lead, beating Genoa with a fantastic Federico Dimarco volley and Hakan Calhanoglu penalty.
The Nerazzurri were 10 points clear at the top of the Serie A table and preparing for the Coppa Italia semi-final with Como, but home and away defeats to Bodo/Glimt saw them crash out of the Champions League play-offs. It was a shocking result, made worse by losing Lautaro Martinez to injury, plus Alessandro Bastoni was suspended here, with Hakan Calhanoglu only fit for the bench. Genoa were revitalised by coach Daniele De Rossi, but Brooke Norton-Cuffy and Sebastian Otoa picked up injuries in the 3-0 victory away to Torino last week.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Nicolo’ Barella of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Justin Bijlow had to make two awkward saves in 30 seconds, first on the Ange-Yoan Bonny half-volley, then the resulting Federico Dimarco corner that was looping in at the far post.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan hit a scorching strike from distance that looped up off Johan Vasquez to bounce onto the top of the crossbar with Bijlow beaten.
The Genoa goalkeeper made a wonderful save at full stretch to palm the Bonny header out of the far bottom corner on Nicolò Barella’s cross.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Federico Dimarco of FC Internazionale scores their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
However, he could do nothing on a sensational Dimarco goal. The Italian laid it off to Mkhitaryan and ran down the left ready to meet the chipped return pass, scoring with a remarkably precise left-foot volley from the tightest of angles.
Stop that Federico DiMarco.
An incredible volley puts Inter Milan 1-0 up against Genoa
Barella also nodded just over from a Carlos Augusto cross, while Vitinha didn’t get enough on his header from a Mikael Ellertsson ball to the back post.
Vitinha’s effort was deflected off Manuel Akanji to sail over, while Carlos Augusto made an important block on Caleb Ekuban’s header.
Bijlow took the sting out of a Piotr Zielinski cross-shot, but Inter doubled their lead with a chaotic situation.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Vitinha of Genoa CFC is pressured by Luis Henriqueof FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
First Bijlow fingertipped the deflected Luis Henrique shot onto the upright, then as the move continued, the Luis Henrique cross back in struck Alex Amorim’s raised hand for a penalty. Calhanoglu converted by sending the goalkeeper the wrong way.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale scores their team’s second from the penalty spot goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Amorim rolled across for Jeff Ekhator, who was unable to tap in from six yards, and Ellertsson should’ve done better with a free header wide from Aaron Martin’s set play.
Yann Sommer had an odd moment needing a reaction save from point-blank range on Akanji, who clumsily redirected the Ekhator cross-shot.
It is an eighth consecutive Serie A victory for Cristian Chivu’s side, who temporarily go 13 points clear.
The 19-year-old talent’s full name is André Luiz Santos Dias and he advanced to the senior squad from the Corinthians youth academy.
He scored two goals in 11 games so far in 2026, despite suffering collateral medial ligament damage in his ankle in October 2025.
Different versions of Milan price for Andre
CURITIBA, BRAZIL – FEBRUARY 19: Memphis Depay of Corinthians celebrates with teammate Andre after winning the match between Athletico Paranaense and Corinthians as part of Brasileirao 2026 at Arena da Baixada on February 19, 2026 in Curitiba, Brazil. (Photo by Heuler Andrey/Getty Images)
According to ESPN Brasil, the full cost of the operation is closer to €15m plus €2m in add-ons, taking the total to €17m.
Romano and Moretto have the price significantly lower at €12m plus bonuses, while MilanNews.it have it at €13m plus a percentage of the sell-on fee.
BELO HORIZONTE, BRAZIL – NOVEMBER 23: Andre of Corinthians controls the ball against Gabriel Barbosa of Cruzeiro during a match between Cruzeiro and Corithians as part of Brasileirao 2025 at Mineirão Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. (Photo by Pedro Vilela/Getty Images)
As part of the negotiations, the player is prepared to wave his 30 per cent of the contract, as Corinthians only own 70 per cent of his registration.
André is set to fly out to Italy for a medical and it would be valid from June 2026, when he will have just turned 20.
However, the final decision rests with Corinthians President Osmar Stabile.
The left wing-back has been on exceptional form so far this season, with a series of goals and assists, but this was still a highlight.
Dimarco delights San Siro with perfect volley
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Federico Dimarco of FC Internazionale scores their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
He started the move down the left, and ran into the area ready to meet the Henrikh Mkhitaryan dinked return pass.
Stop that Federico DiMarco.
An incredible volley puts Inter Milan 1-0 up against Genoa
Despite the angle being so tight, the Italian still managed to thread his left-foot volley through the eye of a needle between Justin Bijlow and the far post.
This means the 28-year-old currently has seven goals and 15 assists in 35 competitive appearances for Inter this term.
Leeds United have reportedly sent a clear message to potential suitors: Jaka Bijol will not be leaving Elland Road on the cheap.
The Slovenian international has become a cornerstone of Daniel Farke’s defense, and the club is prepared to demand a significant return should they decide to cash in this summer.
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Leeds to ask for big money for Jaka Bijol
(Photo by Nigel French/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)
Describing Bijol as a “monster at centre-back,” he emphasised the player’s physical prowess and dominance in the air as key factors behind his rising stock.
Leeds secured Bijol’s services from Udinese last summer for what now looks like a bargain fee of approximately £15 million.
However, after a string of commanding performances that have helped Leeds move toward Premier League safety, his valuation has skyrocketed.
O’Rourke explained: “Bijol is a monster at centre-back, loves the physical side of the game, very good in the aerial challenges as well.
“I think Leeds right now, if they stay up, which is looking positive for them, they’ll be keen to keep hold of their best players and build on what they have achieved this season.
“Bijol was a bit of a snip at £15million from Udinese. It would take big money to even consider Leeds letting him move on anytime soon.”
Arne Slot is reportedly scouring the market for defensive reinforcements, with uncertainty surrounding the future of Ibrahima Konate at Anfield and having missed out on top target Marc Guehi.
Bijol has quickly adapted to the rigors of English football, putting in standout displays against the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United.
His ability to handle the “physical side of the game” has made him a primary target for clubs looking for a proven, battle-hardened center-half.
With a contract running until 2030, Leeds hold all the cards in any potential negotiations.
While Liverpool may see Bijol as an alternative to more expensive targets, they will likely have to still break the bank to convince Leeds to part with their defensive talisman.
Liverpool recorded a dominating 5-2 win over West Ham on Saturday, marking their fourth consecutive victory across all competitions.
The result signals a remarkable turn in form for Arne Slot’s side after a challenging and inconsistent first half of the season.
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Goals from Hugo Ekitike, Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, Alexis Mac Allister and Jeremie Frimpong ensured the Reds kept their Champions League ambitions firmly on track.
Alexis Mac Allister explains reason behind Liverpool gaining momentum
(Photo by Peter Byrne/PA Images via Getty Images)
Speaking to BBC’s Match of the Day following the emphatic win, midfielder Alexis Mac Allister highlighted that time and mutual understanding have been the catalysts for their recent success.
“Now that we’ve spent some time together, things are easier for us; we understand each other,” he explained.
“The last four or five months is when teams show what they can do. That’s what we want. We know how important it is to qualify for the Champions League for the club and us as a team.”
The Argentine international, who scored a stunning volley to make it 3-0 before half-time, emphasised that the squad is finding its rhythm at the most critical juncture of the campaign.
Liverpool have regained form in 2026
The statistics reflect a side that has become increasingly difficult to beat since the turn of the year.
In 14 games across all competitions in 2026, Liverpool have recorded 8 wins, 4 draws, and only 2 defeats.
This run has seen them climb to fifth in the Premier League table, currently level on points with fourth-placed Manchester United.
Liverpool need to continue momentum to secure Champions League football
Despite the five-goal haul against the Hammers, the race for the top four remains razor-thin.
With Aston Villa just three points ahead in third and Chelsea breathing down their necks, consistency is key, with no room for complacency.
If the Reds can maintain this scoring touch and the tactical “understanding” Mac Allister referenced, a return to Europe’s elite competition looks increasingly likely.
Real Madrid and Barcelona are interested in signing Rodri from Manchester City in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The Spanish news outlet has claimed that Madrid, who have long wanted to sign the Spain international, believe that they could be able to sign Rodri for €50 million, but La Liga rivals Barcelona have […]
Barcelona are interested in signing Gabriel Martinelli from Arsenal in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The Spanish news outlet has claimed that Arsenal want €45 million for the Brazil international winge. Fichajes has noted: ‘Barcelona’s sports management, under the tactical leadership of Hansi Flick, aim to incorporate players who bring freshness and individual […]
Atletico Madrid are interested in signing Cody Gakpo from Liverpool in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Atletico wanted to sign Victor Osimhen, and having missed out on him, the La Liga club are now keen on the Netherlands international. Fichajes has noted: ‘The […]
Real Madrid and Barcelona are interested in signing Rodri from Manchester City in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The Spanish news outlet has claimed that Madrid, who have long wanted to sign the Spain international, believe that they could be able to sign Rodri for €50 million, but La Liga rivals Barcelona have […]
Barcelona are interested in signing Gabriel Martinelli from Arsenal in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The Spanish news outlet has claimed that Arsenal want €45 million for the Brazil international winge. Fichajes has noted: ‘Barcelona’s sports management, under the tactical leadership of Hansi Flick, aim to incorporate players who bring freshness and individual […]
Atletico Madrid are interested in signing Cody Gakpo from Liverpool in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Atletico wanted to sign Victor Osimhen, and having missed out on him, the La Liga club are now keen on the Netherlands international. Fichajes has noted: ‘The […]
Lamine Yamal scored a sensational hat-trick as Hansi Flick marked his 100th game in charge of Barcelona with a 4-1 win over Villarreal at Camp Nou. Yamal’s treble, along with substitute Robert Lewandowski’s late goal, also moved Barcelona four points clear at the top of LaLiga, with Real Madrid facing Getafe on Monday. A quiet […]
Barcelona are interested in signing Gabriel Martinelli from Arsenal in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The Spanish news outlet has claimed that Arsenal want €45 million for the Brazil international winge. Fichajes has noted: ‘Barcelona’s sports management, under the tactical leadership of Hansi Flick, aim to incorporate players who bring freshness and individual […]
Atletico Madrid are interested in signing Cody Gakpo from Liverpool in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Atletico wanted to sign Victor Osimhen, and having missed out on him, the La Liga club are now keen on the Netherlands international. Fichajes has noted: ‘The […]
In the Saudi Pro League matchup between Al Nassr and Al Fayha, Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty with the score at 0-0.
Al Nassr are chasing the Saudi Pro League title, something they haven’t achieved in recent years. Saturday’s match against Al Fayha was crucial, and Cristiano Ronaldo’s early penalty miss came in the opening minutes of the game.
Following wins by Al Ahli and Al Hilal, Jorge Jesus’ team entered Saturday’s match knowing they needed a victory to retain first place in the league standings, or at least a draw to share the top spot with Al Ahli. In that pursuit, facing a lower-level opponent like Al Fayha — currently 10th in the standings — appeared to be an advantage.
The gap between the two teams was evident from the opening minutes, as Al Nassr controlled possession comfortably in the attacking half and created chances to score the opener. In the 11th minute, the referee awarded a penalty for a foul inside the box, giving them an opportunity to take an early lead.
Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up to take the kick, as he usually does. The Portuguese forward struck the ball with his right foot, aiming for the lower right corner past goalkeeper Mosquera. However, he lacked precision, sending the shot too wide. The ball struck the post and went out of play.
Cristiano Ronaldo has reached countless records throughout his career, most of them tied to his remarkable scoring ability. He is, of course, the all-time leading scorer in soccer history with 965 goals, and he holds similar records in the UEFA Champions League, with Real Madrid, and with Portugal.
However, when it comes to penalties, CR7 also holds an unfortunate record. Ronaldo is the player who has missed the most penalties in soccer history, with a total of 36 across his club career with Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al Nassr, as well as his time with the Portugal national team. Considering that he has scored 181 goals from the spot, his conversion rate stands at 81.43%.
Second place in that ranking is also surprising: Lionel Messi. The Argentine forward, who also trails CR7 on the all-time scoring list, has missed 32 penalties compared to 114 converted. That gives him a success rate of 78.08%.
Neymar is currently not among the players Carlo Ancelotti plans to take to the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Brazil.
Gradually, Carlo Ancelotti has shaped the Brazil national team, turning it into a much more reliable side than it had been in recent years under Fernando Diniz and Dorival Junior. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, the coach seems close to finalizing the roster, with Neymar’s absence standing out as the most notable.
According to ESPN, Ancelotti has already locked in 18 of the 26 players he will take to North America for the World Cup this summer. Neymar’s absence stands out on that list, as he is currently not being considered an option.
If confirmed, this decision would be consistent with the steps the Italian coach has taken since his hiring in mid-2025. During this time, Neymar has never been called up for World Cup qualifiers or friendlies, either due to injuries or Ancelotti’s strategic decisions. Unless he delivers consistently strong performances at Santos, that situation does not appear likely to change.
Carlo Ancelotti, Head Coach of Brazil.
Who are the reportedly confirmed Brazil players for the World Cup?
It makes sense that, after nearly a year working as Brazil’s coach and with less than four months until the 2026 World Cup begins, Carlo Ancelotti would already have a clear idea of the roster he plans to take to North America.
According to ESPN, one goalkeeper already has his spot secured: Alisson Becker. In defense, center backs Marquinhos, Eder Militao, and Gabriel Magalhaes are also considered key players by the coach. They are joined by fullbacks Alex Sandro and Douglas Santos.
Four midfielders are also reportedly confirmed: Casemiro, Lucas Paqueta, Bruno Guimaraes, and Andrey Santos. And in attack, where the most names appear as set, are Vinicius, Rodrygo, Raphinha, Gabriel Martinelli, Matheus Cunha, Joao Pedro, Luiz Henrique, and Estevao.
With these 18 players reportedly locked in by Carlo Ancelotti, only eight spots remain on the World Cup roster. Two of those will necessarily be goalkeepers, while probably three will be defenders. That leaves just three spots for midfielders or forwards, making Neymar’s chances appear limited.
Xavi picked his Barcelona presidential candidate to rival Joan Laporta.
Barcelona are experiencing an important moment in their institutional life as the presidential election approaches. Many candidates are ready to succeed Joan Laporta, and some figures are choosing a side. Xavi confirmed his decision.
The former midfielder has chosen Víctor Font as his preferred presidential candidate. Even if he previously served as Barcelona manager while Laporta was president, his departure from the club was not smooth.
Xavi had already supported Font in the past, and on Saturday he confirmed his endorsement by signing in favor of him. With many important matters for the first team at this time of year, the March 15 elections are especially relevant to supporters.
Former players supporting Laporta
Xavi remains one of the club’s most influential figures. His name carries weight, so it is understandable that other candidates find it hard to match that support. Two former players closely associated with Laporta’s administration have backed his candidacy.
Laporta resigned to be a Barcelona presidential candidate again (Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Deco was the most prominent former player to back Laporta’s return to the presidency, which was unsurprising given his current role as sporting director under this administration.
The other supporter was Bojan Krkic, who signed the petition at Laporta’s headquarters. While his career did not ultimately match the early expectations set during his youth, his backing is likely meaningful for the candidate.
Barcelona’s minimum signs required
Voting has not yet taken place. What these former players did was sign to show their support for their chosen presidential candidate. Barcelona requires each candidate to collect at least 2,337 signatures from supporters to be eligible to stand in the election, and Monday is the deadline to submit them.
Xavi doesn't want Laporta as Barcelona's president
Antonio Conte is happy for Romelu Lukaku’s comeback goal to beat Verona, feels this season is ‘making me a better coach’ and warns Napoli still ‘risk missing out on Europe.’
It was shaping up to be another tense evening for the Partenopei, who had scraped one point from the last two Serie A rounds.
Rasmus Hojlund had opened the scoring, then his deflection wrong-footed Alex Meret on the Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro strike, but with the last kick of the game Romelu Lukaku popped up with the winner at the Stadio Bentegodi.
Conte learning from Napoli struggles
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Antonio Conte head coach of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“This is a season that I will carry with me, because it is teaching me so much about how to deal with situations I’d never experienced before,” Conte told DAZN Italia.
“A coach also has to appeal to the human element, find the right words, know the balance between the carrot and the stick.
“This experience is improving me in so many ways. Dealing with all these situations is not at all easy. I feel that it is making me a better coach.
“We find a way to stay on our feet and find the right way through, not just on a football level, but as human beings too.”
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Paolo Sammarco head coach of Hellas Verona embraces Antonio Conte head coach of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
There had been so much controversy over the refereeing in recent weeks, and there was more here, as Napoli felt there was a foul before the corner was awarded for the Verona goal.
“Lukaku had such a serious injury, I know all too well how much he has suffered with this situation, as he wants to help Napoli and help me, for the rapport that we have,” continued Conte.
“We are cuddling him and working hard, he is not yet the player that we know, but he’s getting there. This goal will give him confidence, the World Cup is coming up, I’d love for both him and Kevin De Bruyne to play in it.”
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Lukaku had not scored in Serie A since May 2025 against Cagliari, a gap of 281 days, and perhaps had not expected to net such a decisive, dramatic goal.
“He had another couple of chances, including against Juventus. We know he can make his presence felt in the penalty area. If you are attacking, and the opponents are defending in numbers, Lukaku becomes a fundamental figure.
“If you are attacking the space, he might struggle a little more. We threw him on and he did his job. I hope it will give him confidence, we need everyone.”
Napoli had been about to drop more precious points and risk sliding out of the top four, but this result keeps them in the Champions League spots ahead of Roma vs. Juventus.
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Antonio Conte head coach of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
When asked about his future, Conte made some cryptic comments.
“I signed a three-year contract, so there is still one left to go. Let’s think about the present, so we can write ourselves the best possible future, which means playing in the Champions League.
“It’s going to be a tough fight, we know that, because other teams are in better situations, while we are trying to get players back in shape.
“We know that we genuinely risk missing out on Europe entirely, we are scraping the bottom of the barrel here. We did well to take the points home today, knowing that we can play much better than this.”
Romelu Lukaku admits his first goal in nine months was an emotional moment, especially as it gave Napoli victory in Verona. ‘I was a dead player before coming here.’
The Belgium international had waited 281 days for his first Serie A goal, since May 23 2025 against Cagliari, as he has been out of action since August when a tendon detached in his thigh during a pre-season friendly.
He didn’t expect it to be quite so dramatic, a 96th-minute winner with the last kick of the game away to Hellas Verona, after Rasmus Hojlund had scored and then deflected in the Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro volley.
Lukaku seals last-gasp Napoli success
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“I am happy for the team, it’s a pity we conceded that goal, but we are taking three points home today,” Lukaku told DAZN Italia.
“These have been difficult months, personally. Football has given me so much, and losing my father the way I did was tough to handle.
“I keep going for my children, for my brothers, and for Napoli who gave me so much.”
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli and Unai Núñez of Hellas Verona during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The centre-forward reunited with Antonio Conte at Napoli after their experiences together in England and at Inter, allowing him to revitalise his career yet again after the Chelsea struggles.
“I was a dead player before coming here. This season is difficult, but we’ve got to aim high.”
Cristian Chivu insists Inter ‘don’t have time’ to feel bad about their Champions League exit, as they host Genoa this evening in Serie A. ‘We’ve already turned the page.’
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 24: Referee Alejandro Hernandez and Nicolo Barella of FC Internazionale Milano interact after a penalty appeal for hand ball for FC Internazionale Milano during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and FK Bodo/Glimt at Stadio San Siro on February 24, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Although they are 10 points clear at the top of the Serie A table and preparing for the Coppa Italia semi-final against Como, the fact remains the Nerazzurri were bitterly disappointed by their Champions League exit.
BODO, NORWAY – FEBRUARY 18: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, gestures to his players during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off First Leg match between FK Bodo/Glimt and FC Internazionale Milano at Aspmyra Stadion on February 18, 2026 in Bodo, Norway. (Photo by Martin Ole Wold/Getty Images)
“We don’t have time to think about it, we play every three days and this is a different tournament,” Chivu told DAZN Italia.
“We’ve got to get our energy back and give a sense of consistency to our Serie A results, even if we have done well in this competition so far.”
This is a showdown with Chivu’s former Roma teammate Daniele De Rossi, who has rebooted Genoa on the bench.
“It’s going to be very difficult, as they know how to defend deep or strike with the quality of their forwards. He’s doing a great job, has some very interesting ideas, and it will not be an easy match.”
LECCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 21: Head coach of FC Internazionale Cristian Chivu celebrates after the Serie A match between US Lecce and Inter at Stadio Via del Mare on February 21, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
Lautaro Martinez is still out of action after sustaining a soleus strain in Norway, with Hakan Calhanoglu only fit for the bench.
Alessandro Bastoni is suspended in defence this evening, though there was some good news with the return of Denzel Dumfries midweek after ankle surgery in November.
“We have four strikers who are all having a fantastic season, they work so hard for the team. We have already turned the page, we want to be competitive to the end in Serie A and the Coppa Italia,” concluded Chivu.
Romelu Lukaku scored with the last kick of the game to give Napoli a dramatic 2-1 victory away to rock bottom Hellas Verona, after Rasmus Hojlund netted at both ends.
The Partenopei were sliding down the standings after a 2-2 draw with Roma and controversial defeat to Atalanta. Scott McTominay, Frank Anguissa, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Amir Rrahmani, David Neres and Kevin De Bruyne were still out of action, so Alisson Santos completed the attack, with Giovane on the bench against his former club. Hellas were rock bottom alongside Pisa, so while Gift Orban and Moatasem Al-Musrati were suspended, Rafik Belghali, Pol Lirola, Antoine Bernede, Sandi Lovric and Suat Serdar missed out.
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Paolo Sammarco head coach of Hellas Verona embraces Antonio Conte head coach of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
It was a perfect start for Antonio Conte’s men, who took the lead within 100 seconds. Matteo Politano’s cross from the right was flicked on by Andrias Edmundsson, but turned into an accidental assist for the Hojlund looping header, which he steered into the far top corner from 12 yards, off the inside of the post.
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Rasmus Hojlund of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Leonardo Spinazzola curled just over the bar, while Lorenzo Montipò palmed an Eljif Elmas scorcher out of the bottom corner.
Edmundsson got back for almost a goal-line clearance after Hojlund had dinked a finish past the on-rushing Montipò, and Antonio Vergara blasted just over from an Alisson Santos assist.
Verona equalised amid more controversy, as Napoli felt there was a foul before the corner, but that set play was then flicked on by Hojlund, who was also in the way to deflect the Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro half-volley past Alex Meret.
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro of Hellas Verona scores the 1-1 goal during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Hellas threatened to score another on the counter-attack moments later, but Daniel Mosquera’s first touch let him down when about to go clear.
Tomas Suslov was booked for a sliding tackle on Miguel Gutierrez, as although contact was high, he pulled out at the last second.
Eljif Elmas stung Montipò’s gloves after a well-worked move between substitutes Billy Gilmour and Romelu Lukaku.
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Stanislav Lobotka of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Verona nearly won it in stoppages when Kieron Bowie couldn’t keep the volley on target after Meret flapped aimlessly at a cross.
Just as it seemed to be over, Napoli took a short corner and Giovane’s cross from the left went past an acrobatic Juan Jesus attempt, but Lukaku was ready to sweep in first-time from six yards. It was his first goal of the season and the last kick of the game after so many months out with a serious tendon injury.
Inter hope to put their Champions League disappointment behind them with Marcus Thuram and Ange-Yoan Bonny against Daniele De Rossi’s revitalised Genoa.
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Coach Cristian Chivu of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri are in a very strange position, as while they seem unstoppable going 10 points clear at the top of the Serie A table and are preparing for Tuesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Como, they are out of the Champions League.
Lautaro Martinez is still out with a soleus strain he suffered in Norway, while Alessandro Bastoni is suspended.
It means Stefan de Vrij steps into defence, and Bonny is preferred to Francesco Pio Esposito as partner to underperforming Marcus Thuram.
Hakan Calhanoglu is only fit enough for a spot on the bench, with Denzel Dumfries making his comeback midweek after more than three months out of action.
LECCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 21: Marcus Thuram of Inter during the Serie A match between US Lecce and FC Internazionale at Stadio Via del Mare on February 21, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
Genoa have been revitalised under coach De Rossi, a former teammate of Inter boss Cristian Chivu at Roma.
They picked up wins over Bologna and Torino, plus a draw away to Milan, and some very controversial last-gasp defeats to Lazio and Napoli.
Brooke Norton-Cuffy sustained a muscular issue in the 3-0 victory at Torino last week, with Sebastian Otoa also carrying an ankle problem.
Benjamin Siegrist returns to the squad three months after the goalkeeper fractured his finger.
Vitinha, former Roma midfielder Tommaso Baldanzi and Ruslan Malinovskyi provide the support for centre-forward Lorenzo Colombo.
GENOA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Caleb Ekuban of Genoa (left) celebrates with his team-mates Lorenzo Colombo, Brooke Norton Cuffy and Patrizio Masini after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and Torino FC at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 22, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Inter vs. Genoa line-ups
Inter: Sommer; Akanji, De Vrij, Carlos Augusto; Luis Henrique, Barella, Zielinski, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Thuram, Bonny
Arsenal are interested in signing Kellen Fisher from Norwich City in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Everton, Manchester United and Newcastle United are also keen on a deal for the 21-year-old English right-back. Fichajes has noted: ‘Everton is looking to strengthen their defence […]
Liverpool’s upturn in form continued with a 5-2 win over West Ham and Cody Gakpo hopes it proves to be “the start of something beautiful”. Arne Slot’s side scored three goals from corners in the first half alone – only the second time that has happened in Premier League history – with Hugo Ekitike, Virgil […]
Since arriving at Manchester City back in the summer of 2019, Rodri has certainly underlined his status as a modern era icon at the Etihad. Cementing his spot as one of Europe’s ultimate midfield superstars, the 29-year-old has lifted 11 pieces of major silverware during his time in the blue half of Manchester and bagged […]
Hugo Ekitike scored and provided two assists as Liverpool bolstered their top-four hopes with an entertaining 5-2 victory over West Ham. A lively away performance from West Ham was not enough to deny Arne Slot’s men at Anfield, as they moved level on points with fourth-placed Manchester United in the Premier League table. Liverpool scored […]
Since arriving at Manchester City back in the summer of 2019, Rodri has certainly underlined his status as a modern era icon at the Etihad. Cementing his spot as one of Europe’s ultimate midfield superstars, the 29-year-old has lifted 11 pieces of major silverware during his time in the blue half of Manchester and bagged […]
Arsenal are interested in signing Kellen Fisher from Norwich City in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Everton, Manchester United and Newcastle United are also keen on a deal for the 21-year-old English right-back. Fichajes has noted: ‘Everton is looking to strengthen their defence […]
Since arriving at Manchester City back in the summer of 2019, Rodri has certainly underlined his status as a modern era icon at the Etihad. Cementing his spot as one of Europe’s ultimate midfield superstars, the 29-year-old has lifted 11 pieces of major silverware during his time in the blue half of Manchester and bagged […]
With such milestones inevitably come comparisons to Lionel Messi, the player who defined a generation at Barcelona. The question naturally arises: when did Messi score his first hat-trick, and how old was he?
Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi are once again being spoken about in the same breath, as Barcelona witnesses another historic milestone from its teenage sensation. On February 28, 2026, Lamine Yamal delivered a performance that confirmed his meteoric rise. The 18-year-old forward scored the first hat-trick of his professional career in a 3-1 La Liga victory over Villarreal at Camp Nou.
It was not just any treble—it was a statement display. Yamal struck twice in the first half before completing his hat-trick after the break, guiding Barcelona to a commanding position in the match and reinforcing the club’s push toward the top of La Liga.
The afternoon did not begin smoothly for Barcelona. The club endured a frustrating opening half-hour, with Ferran Torres and Jules Kounde unable to convert promising opportunities. But in the 28th minute, Yamal seized his chance. After a midfield error gifted possession, the teenager received the ball inside the area and calmly slotted home to break the deadlock.
Less than ten minutes later, he produced an even more spectacular moment. Dancing past two defenders, he curled a precise effort into the far corner to make it 2-0. The confidence, balance, and composure displayed by a player still only 18 underscored why he is already regarded as one of Europe’s brightest talents.
Although Villarreal briefly reduced the deficit through Pape Gueye, the Blaugrana quickly restored control. A perfectly weighted through ball from Pedri split the defense, and Yamal raced clear before finishing with trademark calmness to secure his hat-trick and a 3-1 advantage.
The Messi comparison: When did the Argentine score his first hat-trick?
Yamal’s landmark night was about more than three goals. At 18 years and 230 days, he became the youngest player to score a La Liga hat-trick this century. Even more impressively, he became the first player in Europe’s top five leagues in the 21st century to reach 25 goals before turning 19.
With such milestones inevitably come comparisons to Lionel Messi, the player who defined a generation at Barcelona. The question naturally arises: when did Messi score his first hat-trick, and how old was he?
Messi’s first official hat-trick for Barcelona’s first team came on March 10, 2007, in a dramatic 3-3 La Liga draw against Real Madrid. At the time, he was 19 years and 260 days old. That performance announced the Argentine as a global superstar in the making, and it marked the beginning of an era that would redefine the club’s history.
Lionel Messi of Barcelona celebrates after scoring his first hat-trick against Real Madrid
By comparison, Yamal has reached his first professional treble even earlier, highlighting just how extraordinary his development has been. While Messi would go on to shatter virtually every scoring record in sight, Yamal’s trajectory suggests Barcelona may once again have a generational talent on its hands.
On a day that blended inevitability with astonishment, Yamal delivered a performance that not only secured victory for the club but also etched his name into the record books in a way few imagined possible so soon.
Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi now share another historic link at Barcelona, but this time, the teenager has moved ahead. On a day that blended inevitability with astonishment, Yamal delivered a performance that not only secured victory for the club but also etched his name into the record books in a way few imagined possible so soon.
The 18-year-old produced the first professional hat-trick of his career in a 3-1 La Liga win over Villarreal on February 28, 2026, at the Camp Nou. What followed was more than just three goals; it was a symbolic passing of a torch.
Barcelona entered the match knowing that victory would send the club four points clear at the top of La Liga. The breakthrough finally came in the 28th minute. After a midfield error from Villarreal, Fermin Lopez slipped a perfectly weighted pass into Yamal’s path. The winger took a composed touch and curled a low left-footed finish into the far corner.
Less than ten minutes later, the stadium erupted again. Yamal collected possession on the right wing, danced past two defenders with dazzling footwork, and rifled a spectacular strike into the top corner to make it 2-0.
Villarreal briefly threatened a comeback through Pape Gueye, who halved the deficit. But Barcelona’s rising star was not done. In the 69th minute, Pedri delivered a sublime through ball, and Yamal raced in behind before calmly chipping the goalkeeper to complete his treble.
The record revealed
At 18 years, 7 months, and 15 days old, Yamal became the youngest player in Barcelona’s history to score a La Liga hat-trick, surpassing Lionel Messi’s previous club record. Messi had set that benchmark at 19 years, 8 months, and 16 days in a 3-3 draw against Real Madrid on March 10, 2007.
For nearly two decades, Messi’s record had stood as a modern milestone at Barcelona. While older historical feats exist, such as Paulino Alcantara’s early 20th-century exploits, Messi’s achievement defined the modern La Liga era. Until now. Yamal’s performance also made him the youngest player to score a La Liga hat-trick this century, further amplifying the scale of the accomplishment.
1 – Youngest players to score their first hat-trick in @LaLigaEn in the 21st century:
18 years and 230 days – LAMINE YAMAL today vs Villarreal 19 years and 6 days – Gio dos Santos vs Murcia in May 2008 19 years and 125 days – Santi Mina vs Rayo Vallecano in April 2015
The hat-trick was not an isolated flash of brilliance. It was the latest chapter in a season that has confirmed Yamal’s elite trajectory. He now boasts 101 career goal contributions, 49 goals and 52 assists, before turning 19. This season alone, he has registered 17 goals and 12 assists, moving clear as Barcelona’s leading scorer.
In Europe’s top five leagues this century, no player has reached 25 league goals before the age of 19 faster. After three matches without finding the net, the hat-trick felt both timely and emphatic. Barcelona may have been without key midfielder Frenkie de Jong, but Yamal ensured the absence had no lasting impact.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will bring numerous rule changes, including updates to VAR.
Rule changes and technological innovations have been a constant in soccer in recent years, aimed at speeding up the game and preventing referee errors that could impact match results. Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, more changes will be implemented.
This week, the International Football Association Board approved a series of modifications to the rules of the sport, designed to address issues and clarify common situations during matches. This summer’s World Cup in North America will be the first time these new rules are applied.
One of the most significant changes involves the use of VAR. While strict limits on the situations where it can be used will remain, the list of scenarios in which the referee can be assisted will be expanded.
Until now, VAR could only review a red card when it involved a direct red or a referee error in identifying the player who committed the foul. Moving forward, it will also be possible to review expulsions that result from two yellow cards, when the second card is controversial.
VAR in use during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Another situation that can now be reviewed by VAR involves corner kicks. When the referee and assistants incorrectly award or deny a corner, VAR may intervene if the review can be done immediately and without delaying the restart of play.
Rule changes to prevent time-wasting
In recent years, one of FIFA’s priorities has been reducing delays during matches and maximizing actual playing time. While some proposals were set aside—such as stopping the clock every time the game is paused, similar to basketball—new rule changes will now address this goal.
Starting this summer, if the referee determines a team is delaying a throw-in or goal kick, a visible five-second countdown will begin. If the ball is not in play by the end of that time, a punishment will be applied: the throw-in will be awarded to the opposing team, or a goal kick will be replaced by a corner kick for the opponent.
Substitutions will also be sped up. Each player will have 10 seconds to leave the field once their exit is announced or indicated by the referee. If this is not followed, the incoming player must wait outside the field for at least one minute, until play is interrupted again.
The case of injured players
In line with efforts to prevent delays, rules will also regulate situations involving players with physical issues. Whether medical staff enter the field to assist or the game is paused while a player recovers, the player will have to leave the field and wait one minute after play resumes before returning.
There is, of course, an exception, already long established in soccer. If a player is fouled by an opponent in a situation warranting a yellow or red card, the injured player attended by medical staff is not required to leave the field once play resumes.
FIFA World Cup Trophy is displayed during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Draw.
Beyond the goals and the growing rivalry with the Portuguese, there is another objective driving Ivan Toney, one aimed directly at England’s national setup.
Ivan Toney is making noise in Saudi Arabia, and not just because he is outscoring Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League. The striker, who swapped English soccer for the Middle East in a high-profile move, is leading the Golden Boot race while firing Al-Ahli into a title fight with Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr. But beyond the goals and the growing rivalry with the Portuguese, there is another objective driving him, one aimed directly at England’s national setup.
The 29-year-old forward has 23 goals in 23 league appearances this season, placing him top of the scoring charts ahead of Ronaldo and Julián Quiñones. His clinical form has not only put Al-Ahli one point clear at the top of the table but also reignited debate over his international future with the England national soccer team.
When Toney accepted a lucrative $55 million transfer to Al-Ahli in the summer of 2024, critics questioned whether he was jeopardizing his England ambitions. Leaving the Premier League spotlight often carries risks, particularly ahead of a major tournament cycle. However, the Englishman has no regrets. His numbers stack up impressively, so much so that he is currently outscoring Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League. Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, claimed the Golden Boot in each of the past two seasons. Now, Toney stands in his way.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Toney reflected on his confidence and scoring form. “Every time I step onto the pitch, I feel like I’m going to score, I’ve got that confidence at the moment,” he said. His goals are not only personal milestones but central to Al-Ahli’s push for its first league title in a decade. With the title race tight and Ronaldo chasing him, Toney knows consistency will be decisive.
“And when you’re this far through the season and you’re close to the top of the goal scoring chart, it’s kind of like, ‘OK, let me stay here now,’” he explained. “And of course, we know goals win games and that’s what I’m trying to do for the team and help us in the league. So yeah, I want to try and stay there now.”
What did Toney say about Thomas Tuchel?
While the Golden Boot battle is fierce, there is a bigger stage in Toney’s mind: the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In the middle of his red-hot domestic campaign, Toney sent a clear, if measured, message to England manager Thomas Tuchel.“Of course, there’s going to be eyes on that,” Toney said regarding his scoring exploits. “But I can only control what I can control, which is trying to score goals and do well for my team here.”
He continued: “I’m sure goals will get me recognized and help me push close to being in the frame. But there’s a lot of other great strikers and a lot of competition.” Though he has not been part of every recent squad, Toney has not given up on wearing the England shirt again. His last of seven caps came in June 2025, when he stepped off the bench in a friendly against Senegal. That remains his only appearance under Tuchel so far.
When asked whether he has spoken directly with the Three Lions boss, Toney was candid: “No, there’s been no conversation. But I don’t expect there to be, because he’s got so many other players he has to be watching.” Still, he added with quiet confidence, “I’m sure he’s keeping one eye on me and seeing what I’m doing. I just have to be focused on myself, keep my head down and keep scoring goals.”
Ivan Toney of England
That is the message — simple, direct, and rooted in performance. Score goals, stay relevant, force the conversation.
Competition for England’s No.9 role
Toney understands the challenge ahead. Harry Kane remains England’s undisputed first-choice striker. Yet tournament squads require depth, and analysts have suggested Tuchel could take additional central forwards.
Names like Ollie Watkins, Dominic Solanke, Danny Welbeck, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin remain in contention. Toney, however, offers a proven scoring instinct and physical presence, attributes that were crucial during England’s run to the Euro 2024 final, where he contributed off the bench. “Like I said before, I know what I can bring to a team and goals is part of my game. Hopefully that’s enough,” Toney stated.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr and Ivan Toney of Al Ahli.
There are reports Cesc Fabregas left Como star Nico Paz on the bench against Lecce today for disciplinary reasons after the Real Madrid product turned up late to a meal.
It was very surprising when the starting XI for today’s Serie A match did not include the young Argentine, especially considering he was suspended for last week’s 2-0 win away to Juventus.
Nico Paz gets the message from Fabregas
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 10: Nico Paz of Como 1907 looks o during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Fabregas was asked about the situation before kick-off, questioned on whether Nico Paz was rested ahead of Tuesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Inter.
However, he replied it was “not because of that, it was simply a choice that I made.”
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and ACF Fiorentina at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
According to Sky Sport Italia, the real reason has now been revealed, and it is disciplinary action to send a message to the rest of the squad.
Nico Paz reportedly irritated the Como coach by turning up late to a team dinner in preparation for this game.
He did come on as a substitute eventually in the 3-1 comeback victory, so has evidently been forgiven after this initial warning.
Lazio are without Daniel Maldini, Toma Basic, Pedro, Nicolò Rovella and Mario Gila for tomorrow’s Serie A trip to Torino, as the forward sustained an ankle injury.
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino on Sunday at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).
The Biancocelesti are preparing for the Coppa Italia semi-final against Atalanta on Wednesday, but also know their Serie A form is suffering lately.
They managed only two draws in the last three rounds, failing to score in two consecutive matches.
Lazio have more injury problems
CAGLIARI, ITALY – FEBRUARY 21: Maurizio Sarri coach of Lazio looks on during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and SS Lazio at Stadio Sant’Elia on February 21, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Coach Maurizio Sarri has already been dealing with a lengthy absentee list, with Pedro spraining his ankle, and Rovella fracturing his clavicle.
A new problem is represented by Maldini, who has not even made the trip due to an ankle issue, a particular blow considering he was expected to start.
The good news is that Boulaye Dia is back in the squad, although he is not fully fit after struggling with flu symptoms and a fever over the last few days.
Cesc Fabregas congratulated Como for showing ‘maturity’ as they fought back from an early surprise to beat Lecce 3-1 and keep up the pressure for a Champions League spot.
They had initially been shocked on home turf by the Lecce change of system to 3-5-2, as well as the Lassana Coulibaly free header.
However, the Lariani had turned the game around by half-time thanks to Tasos Douvikas, Jesus Rodriguez and Marc Oliver Kempf goals.
Fabregas sees Como step up to next level
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas looks o during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and US Lecce at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“These are three important points for us, we show consistency after the strong performances against Milan and Juventus,” Fabregas told DAZN Italia.
“I want to congratulate the team for their maturity. This is a strong squad that will deliver in the long run.”
Como are by no means a surprise at this point, despite the fact they only earned promotion into Serie A in 2024.
“This is a journey, there will be ups and downs. We are trying to create a sense of continuity of success, the more we play together, the better we get. This is a team that continues to improve.
“I told the lads, I am calm, because I know you can recognise your mistakes and raise the bar. This is an intelligent group of players, when they get something wrong once, they don’t do it again.”
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Anastasios Douvikas of Como 1907 celebrates with his team-mate after scoring their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and US Lecce at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Fabregas admits he was also taken by surprise going into this game, as Lecce coach Eusebio Di Francesco pulled the rug out from under him.
“It was not a simple match at all. Lecce always play the same way, but today they had three centre-backs, which they never do. We had prepared for a four-man defence, but we won it down the left, where they were slow to cover the gap and were left one on one. We had the right pressing and transition timing.”
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas issues instructions to his player Anastasios Douvikas of Como 1907 during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and ACF Fiorentina at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
There was more good news for Como in the final minutes, as Assane Diao made his comeback after knee surgery, but Alvaro Morata and Kempf had knocks.
“Diao did in a few minutes what we had been missing so much in recent months, so we hope he can get back to full fitness soon. Kempf has a little problem with his hip, we need to evaluate it, but nothing serious,” concluded Fabregas.
“We’re not sure what is wrong with Morata.”
Now they prepare for Tuesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final first leg against Inter.
Liverpool star Alisson Becker has been slammed for his complacent moment during the first half of today’s Premier League clash against West Ham.
Despite the Reds cruising at Anfield, the Brazilian’s lapse in concentration nearly gifted the Hammers a lifeline in a match that remains delicately poised.
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West Ham struggled with Liverpool’s set-pieces, with Hugo Ekitike opening the scoring and it wasn’t long before Dominik Szoboszlai whipped a corner into the heart of the box for Virgil van Dijk to expertly guide home for 2-0.
Despite the comfortable scoreline, former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock was left annoyed at a moment of madness from Alisson Becker while the Reds were 2-0 up.
The goalkeeper, often the hero for Liverpool, played a pass straight to Jarrod Bowen inside his own penalty area.
Fortunately for the hosts, the West Ham skipper was so surprised by the gift that the ball bounced off him and back into Alisson’s grateful arms.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, he said: “So complacent from Alisson. He thought it was a simple pass and it was far too lazy and relaxed.”
Liverpool will need to make sure to see off the win
The danger of such complacency became evident shortly after the restart. West Ham pulled one back early in the second half through Tomas Soucek, making the score 3-1 and injecting sudden tension into the stadium.
And while Cody Gakpo restored the three goal lead in the 70th minute, West Ham made it 4-2 just five minutes later, with Castellanos scoring from a set-piece this time, setting up a nervy finish to the game.
Liverpool have thrown away leads several times this season, and Arne Slot’s men will have to see out the game smartly to avoid another slip-up.
Former Barcelona defender Jeremy Mathieu has reignited debate among supporters after suggesting he outperformed Lionel Messi in one very specific department.
Former Barcelona defender Jeremy Mathieu has reignited debate among supporters after suggesting he outperformed Lionel Messi in one very specific department. The remark, delivered with a grin, revisits a golden era at Barcelona when Messi and Mathieu shared a dressing room under Luis Enrique. While the claim may sound audacious on the surface, the Frenchman’s reflection adds another fascinating layer to the story of a squad that dominated Europe.
Speaking on the SafePlay program, Mathieu made the surprising statement: “I think I was better at free kicks than Lionel Messi.” The comment was made in a light-hearted tone, yet it instantly caught attention. Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in soccer history, built part of his legendary reputation on his mastery of free kicks, scoring 69 direct set-piece goals across his career.
At Barcelona, dead-ball duties were almost exclusively his domain, with his precision and consistency becoming one of the team’s defining attacking weapons. It is here, in the art of the free kick, that Mathieu believes he had the edge. Though he was primarily a defender, he fondly recalled his own memorable strike against Elche in the 2015 Copa del Rey, a powerful effort that showcased his technique from distance.
While few would seriously argue that he surpassed the Argentine in that department, the anecdote reflects the confidence and personality within a Blaugrana squad that went on to conquer Spain and Europe.
Perspective with a smile
Mathieu’s free-kick remark should be viewed through that lens — as a nostalgic reflection rather than a serious comparison. His statement adds color to the memory of a squad filled with confidence, talent, and personality.
After three seasons, he left Barcelona for Sporting Lisbon before retiring in 2020 due to a knee injury. His post-soccer life has been quieter, far removed from the stadium lights, but his stories continue to resonate with supporters.
Lionel Messi’s debut in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup will come in the matchup between Inter Miami and Nashville SC.
Since his arrival at Inter Miami in 2023, Lionel Messi has led the team to success in two of the major tournaments they compete in: the Leagues Cup and Major League Soccer. Now, the pending challenge is the Concacaf Champions Cup, where they will make their debut this year against Nashville SC.
This week, the official Concacaf website announced the dates and times for the Round of 16 matches. Inter Miami will make their debut visiting Nashville SC at Geodis Park on Wednesday, March 11, at 7:30 PM ET.
Exactly one week later, on Wednesday, March 18, at 7 PM ET, the second leg will take place in Florida. This match will likely be the last game the Herons play at Chase Stadium before the official opening of Miami Freedom Park.
Regarding the competition format, the team that scores the most goals over the two matches will advance. If tied, the team with more away goals will have the advantage. If that still does not resolve the tie, there will be 15 minutes of extra time, and if necessary, a penalty shootout.
Rodrigo de Paul (L), Lionel Messi (C) and Luis Suarez (R) of Inter Miami wave during a training session at Estadio Juan Ramón Loubriel.
Inter Miami and Nashville SC are familiar foes
The Herons earned their spot in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16 as one of the five seeded participating clubs, which allowed them to skip the opening round. Nashville SC, meanwhile, had to get past Atletico Ottawa with a 7-0 aggregate score.
The Round of 16 matchup will be another chapter in the recent history between the two teams. They were opponents in last year’s MLS playoffs, requiring a third game to decide the series and allow Inter Miami to advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals. Additionally, in 2024, they faced each other in the Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16, with the Herons coming out on top.
How has Messi fared in the Concacaf Champions Cup?
In 2026, Lionel Messi will participate in the Concacaf Champions Cup for the third time. The first was in 2024, when Inter Miami qualified by winning the Leagues Cup the previous year. In that edition, the Herons were eliminated by Monterrey in the quarterfinals.
The Argentine forward’s second experience in the continental tournament came in 2025, when Inter Miami reached the semifinals but were eliminated by Vancouver Whitecaps. In total, Messi has played 10 matches in the Concacaf Champions Cup, scoring 7 goals and providing 3 assists.
Lionel Messi of Inter Miami and Hany Mukhtar of Nashville SC.
Antonio Conte warns he does ‘not pick names, I pick those who are in the best shape’ to help Napoli, as he gives an Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa update ahead of the trip to Verona.
It kicks off at the Stadio Bentegodi at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 04: SSC Napoli head coah Antonio Conte during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and SSC Napoli at Stadio Olimpico on January 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
The pressure is really on the Partenopei after a 2-2 draw with Roma and controversial 2-1 defeat to Atalanta, as it saw them slide down the standings to fourth place and the gap from the chasing pack close up.
Conte refused to speak to the media following the debatable officiating against Atalanta, and did not hold a press conference this week either, but did talk to DAZN Italia before kick-off.
Conte relies on Napoli attitude
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Antonio Conte, SSC Napoli head coach, gestures during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
“What we never lacked was the attitude, no matter the result. The attitude must be correct for this game too, as I always tell the lads, we’re down to the final 12 matches and are writing our future right now,” said the coach.
“I never doubted the hunger and determination of these players.”
There were some changes to the starting XI, as Leonardo Spinazzola and Matteo Politano stepped in for Pasquale Mazzocchi and Miguel Gutierrez.
“I changed the wing-backs because before the Atalanta game I saw Mazzocchi and Gutierrez in much better physical condition compared to Spinazzola and Politano. We had a work of training since then, they’ve been doing better, so that’s why I changed.”
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Antonio Conte, head coach of SSC Napoli, looks down in disappointment during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
The Napoli absentee list remains extensive, missing Scott McTominay, Anguissa, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Amir Rrahmani, David Neres and Kevin De Bruyne.
There was some good news, as Anguissa played a specially-organised friendly midweek to get him closer to a full recovery, but how long until he’s back in the starting XI for Napoli?
NAPLES, ITALY – OCTOBER 25: Frank Zambo Anguissa of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his side third goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and FC Internazionale at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on October 25, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
“I don’t know how long Frank will take, but the fact he’s back in the squad gives him an opportunity to feel more confidence. He has been out for more than three months, we cannot expect to see him recover from one day to the next.
“I don’t pick names, I pick those who I can see in the best shape in training. We will decide in the next few weeks which tournament we are in next season, so I cannot take risks here, nor do I want to rush back and damage the player,” concluded Conte.
Como already won 3-1 against Lecce earlier this afternoon, further closing the gap on the top four.
Pierre Kalulu hopes Luciano Spalletti stays at Juventus, and reveals he ‘has not spoken’ to Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni after that controversial red card incident.
The Bianconeri are in action with a showdown against Roma for fourth place on Sunday evening, but are also taking to the field for the first time since their Champions League play-off exit to Galatasaray.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Pierre Kalulu of Juventus FC dribbles the ball against Mario Lemina of Galatasaray during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
Although they managed to neutralise the first leg 5-2 defeat despite being down to 10 men for the controversial Lloyd Kelly red card, the Old Lady eventually capitulated in extra time.
“We are both disappointed with the final result, but reflecting on the situation, also feel proud of what we showed on the pitch.”
Kalulu sees Juventus crossroads
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, speaks to Pierre Kalulu during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Already out of the Coppa Italia, the only target for Juventus now is fighting to qualify for the Champions League with a top four Serie A finish, so going head-to-head with Roma is a potential turning point for the whole season.
“We are well aware this is an important game for us, but we also know there will be another 11 matches after this. Obviously, as a head-to-head clash, the points are worth more,” continued Kalulu.
“We believe in ourselves and if we do our duty, then it will go well.”
There is certainly more confidence in the Juve camp after the second leg performance against Galatasaray, and the players seem to believe they are on the right track with Spalletti.
“Contracts are up to the club. All I can say is that we feel good and have clear ideas, we like the way we play, so we’d be very happy if he was to stay.”
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Kalulu of Juventis celebrates a second goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
This is Kalulu’s return to the field in Serie A, as he was suspended for the 2-0 defeat to Como, adding insult to injury after everyone agreed he should not have been sent off against Inter.
“If we had won even with my red card, I would’ve been disappointed still, but with less of a sense of bitterness. The team always comes first before the individual, and what really hurts is that it all happened together.
“I hope that I will have success in future that helps me forget this incident. I don’t expect anything from Bastoni, it’s not like we talked much before either, so the next time will be in about six months, I expect.”
That incident has prompted IFAB to propose a change to the VAR protocol, so it can intervene on a second yellow card.
“Any rule that can help football in general is always welcome.”
Como completed a comeback from a shock opener to beat Lecce 3-1, as Jesus Rodriguez celebrated both an assist and his first Serie A goal.
The Lariani were in the thick of the race for a Champions League spot after beating Juventus 2-0 and holding Milan to a draw. Nico Paz returned from suspension, yet was rested ahead of the Coppa Italia semi-final with Inter, but Martin Baturina had an ankle injury, and the season was over for Jayden Addai after a torn Achilles tendon. Lecce’s run of two consecutive victories was stalled by a 2-0 defeat to Inter, with Kialonda Gaspar, Medon Berisha and Francesco Camarda sidelined. They changed to a 3-5-2 formation.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas looks o during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and US Lecce at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Wladimiro Falcone used his legs to parry when one-on-one with Tasos Douvikas, but it was Lecce who took the lead against the run of play with their first chance.
Lameck Banda got down the left and whipped in a right-footed cross, finding Lassana Coulibaly for a completely free header into the far top corner from seven yards. The Como defenders had totally lost sight of the midfielder.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Lassana Coulibaly of US Lecce celebrates with his team-mate after scoring their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and US Lecce at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Jesus Rodriguez should’ve equalised moments later, but ballooned over from 12 yards on the Ignace van der Brempt pull-back.
He made up for it when running onto the Maxi Perrone through ball and rolled across from the left, where Douvikas only had to prod in from six yards.
Como turned the game around completely, as Coulibaly slipped in midfield to spark the counter, with another great Perrone assist sending Jesus Rodriguez through to dribble around Falcone. He deposited into the empty net for his first Serie A goal after many attempts this season.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28:Jesus Rodriguez of Como 1907 celebrates with his team-mate after scoring their team’s second goalduring the Serie A match between Como 1907 and US Lecce at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The hosts added a third on the stroke of half-time, as everyone expected Lucas Da Cunha to go for goal from his free kick, but instead he floated it over the top for the Marc-Oliver Kempf diving free header.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Walid Cheddira of US Lecce competes for the ball with Marc Olivier Kenpf of Como 1907 during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and US Lecce at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Remarkably, that was the first time since October 1987 against Ascoli that Como had scored three goals in the first half of a Serie A match.
Douvikas nodded a Da Cunha corner inches wide of the far post, while a crucial block prevented the Nico Paz tap-in from Ignace van der Brempt’s pull-back.
Nico Paz also couldn’t get enough on the Maxence Caqueret slide-rule pass as he went sliding in on the counter-attack, poking it into the arms of Falcone.
Assane Diao and Gaby Jean both made their comebacks from serious injuries, Diao immediately sprinting through to force Falcone to make a save with his legs from close range.
Alvaro Morata had penalty appeals waved away for a coming together with Jamil Siebert, which forced him off injured in stoppages.
Como 3-1 Lecce
Banda 14 (L), Douvikas 19 (C), Jesus Rodriguez 36 (C), Kempf 44 (C)
Napoli look to Alisson Santos, Rasmus Hojlund and Antonio Vergara for their trip to troubled Hellas Verona, as Giovane is on the bench against his old club.
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and AS Roma at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 15, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Scott McTominay, Frank Anguissa, David Neres, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Amir Rrahmani and Kevin De Bruyne are still out of action.
That again means Eljif Elmas drops to midfield, with January signing Alisson Santos part of the trident attack with Hojlund and Vergara.
Giovane made the January move from Verona to Napoli, but he is only on the bench with his old club.
Another change sees Alex Meret take the gloves from Vanja Milinkovic-Savic.
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Alisson Santos of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his side second goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and AS Roma at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 15, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Verona remain rock bottom of the table alongside Pisa on just 15 points from 26 rounds, and it will take a miracle to avoid relegation.
They are without a win since December 14 against Fiorentina, managing to scrape together only three draws from their last 11 games.
Nicolas Valentini and Roberto Gagliardini return to the fold after the 3-0 defeat to Sassuolo, but Gift Orban and Moatasem Al-Musrati are suspended.
The absentee list includes Rafik Belghali, Pol Lirola, Antoine Bernede, Sandi Lovric and Suat Serdar.
The attack is led by January arrival Kieron Bowie, who was brought in from Hibernian.
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 06: Kieron Bowie of Hellas Verona competes for the ball with Stefano Moreo of Pisa Sporting Club during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and Pisa SC at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 06, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Massimiliano Allegri plays down Milan exit rumours, saying that there’s ‘total harmony’ with club directors and predicts Christian Pulisic ‘will get back to scoring.’
Milan coach Allegri previewed Sunday’s Serie A match between the Rossoneri and Cremonese.
It’s an away fixture for Milan, who ended their 25-game league unbeaten run last week, losing 1-0 at San Siro against Parma.
Cremonese vs. Milan – Allegri’s pre-match press conference
CAGLIARI, ITALY – JANUARY 02: Manager Massimiliano Allegri of Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and AC Milan at Stadio Sant’Elia on January 02, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
“After six months without losing, weall felt the blow. On Tuesday, we were all a bit dazed, while on Wednesday, we had a good training session,” Allegri said at a pre-match press conference on Saturday, via Milannews.
“Sooner or later, we were bound to slip up; we hoped not, but it happened. Now we have to start running again. In the last two matches in Cremona, Milan haven’t scored; two 0-0 draws and one defeat. The last win dates back to 1993-94; the year before, under Capello, it finished 1-1.”
Three Milan players are unavailable: Matteo Gabbia, Santiago Gimenez and Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
“Gabbia is out; he still has this inflammation problem. We hope he’ll be back as soon as possible,” Allegri confirmed.
“Loftus-Cheek has had all his teeth fixed. Gimenez has completed all his pre-conditioning work. He’s in good shape. It’s possible that he’ll start training with the team this week. That’s a good sign, a positive recovery.”
“There’s total harmony with the club regarding the rumours that came out this week,” Allegri replied.
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 08: Referee Maurizio Mariani speaks to Christian Pulisic of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Of course, in any discussion, there can be different points of view. It’s important that everyone works for the good of Milan. I’m very happy to have returned to Milan after 15 years and to have started working with a wonderful group of players. The club is planning and structuring Milan’s future. To do that, we need to achieve the most important result. In March, we’re in a fairly good position. Now we have to see if we’re good enough to stay there or take the final step. There’s harmony between the club and me.”
“I don’t know who will start tomorrow. In the last half hour, we’ll need whoever is on the bench,” Allegri said.
“Pulisic has grown physically and mentally: he’ll get back to scoring. The important thing is that they’re all doing well.
“Pulisic is close to a very good level. He has grown physically, he’s much calmer and has much more confidence in himself. He could get back to scoring.”
PISA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 13: Adrien Rabiot of AC Milan reacts during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and AC Milan at Arena Garibaldi on February 13, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Ardon Jashari started against Parma to replace the suspended Adrien Rabiot. The Frenchman, however, is still on a yellow card and will be suspended for the derby if he’s booked tomorrow. The same goes for Alexis Saelemaekers.
“Jashari is improving a lot. He played well, even when he came on against Parma,” Allegri said.
“It’s normal that he makes fewer forward runs than Rabiot, as he has different characteristics, but he’s been an excellent signing.
“The most important match is tomorrow,” concluded Allegri.
“Once it’s over, whoever is fit will play the derby. Anyone suspended will be in the stands.”
Italy international Destiny Udogie will miss Sunday’s Serie A match against Fulham due to a hamstring injury, and his involvement in the World Cup play-off in March remains highly uncertain.
Italian left-back Udogie will miss Sunday’s Premier League match against Fulham.
New Tottenham coach Igor Tudor provided the latest injury update for both Udogie and ex-Juventus star Dejan Kulusevski during a press conference.
Tudor’s injury update on Udogie
Tottenham Hotspur defender Destiny Udogie celebrates after scoring the opening goal of the English Premier League football match between Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, on December 10, 2023. (Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)
“It’s on a weekly basis. When they come, they come,” Tudor said via Football London.
“We need to be focused on the way, also, on how they come back into the team. Also, the main important thing is that, over time, they are recovering to be in good condition so that when they come back, they are in good shape. Otherwise, it’s a problem. But we are working. This is an important part of our job.”
Udogie has already missed 15 games across all competitions with Tottenham this season, due to hamstring and knee problems.
The former Udinese star has only provided one assist in 20 appearances across all competitions, collecting just 1.100 minutes on the field at a club level.
DORTMUND, GERMANY – MARCH 23: Destiny Udogie of Italy battles for possession with Antonio Ruediger of Germany during the UEFA Nations League Quarterfinal Leg Two match between Germany and Italy at Football Stadium Dortmund on March 23, 2025 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
As previously reported by Football London, Udogie is not expected to return to action before mid-March, which means his involvement in the World Cup play-off remains uncertain.
The Azzurri will face Northern Ireland in the semifinal on March 26, while the potential Final is scheduled for March 31 against the winner of Wales vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Udogie made his senior debut for Italy in 2023 and has 12 international appearances.
Alexis Mac Allister has scored Liverpool’s third goal of the first half, with a brilliant volley past the West Ham goalkeeper.
Liverpool’s mastery of the dead ball has been on full display at Anfield this afternoon, as the Reds stormed to a 3-0 first-half lead against West Ham.
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In a clinical opening 45 minutes, Arne Slot’s side proved exactly why they currently lead the Premier League table for goals scored from set-pieces.
The scoring opened early through Hugo Ekitike. After an initial corner delivery was headed clear by the Hammers’ defense, Ryan Gravenberch showed great composure to play the ball for the Frenchman, who made no mistake in slotting home to settle the home crowd.
West Ham grew into the game after conceding and while they looked threatening in attack, it wasn’t long before Liverpool’s lead was doubled.
Dominik Szoboszlai, whose delivery has been a revelation this season, whipped a corner into the heart of the box. Virgil van Dijk rose above a sea of defenders, expertly guiding the ball into the back of the net to make it 2-0.
(Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Alexis Mac Allister goal vs West Ham
The highlight of the half, however, arrived just moments before the interval.
Mohamed Salah swung in a corner that was flicked toward the back post by Van Dijk. Ekitike, showing great awareness, produced a delicate touch to tee the ball up perfectly for Alexis Mac Allister.
The World Cup winner didn’t hesitate, meeting the dropping ball with a sensational first-time volley that screamed past the goalkeeper. It was a goal of pure technical quality, punctuating a dominant half of football.
This performance comes at a crucial time for the Reds.
Following a turbulent first half of the 2025/26 campaign, Liverpool’s form in 2026 has seen a marked improvement.
Currently sitting in 6th place and level on points with Chelsea, the Merseysiders are locked in a high-stakes battle with the Blues and Manchester United to salvage their season.
With five Champions League slots potentially up for grabs this year, Slot’s men are desperate to climb into that top four bracket to ensure elite European football returns to Anfield.
If they can maintain this level of set-piece efficiency and clinical finishing, a late-season surge remains very much on the cards.
Wolves stunned rivals Aston Villa 2-0 to pick up just their second Premier League victory of the season, with Joao Gomes and Rodrigo Gomes on target at a rain-soaked Molineux. Villa approached Friday’s West Midlands derby having only won one of their last four Premier League games, ceding momentum to Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool […]
Al-Fayha take on Al Nassr for Matchday 24 of the 2025–2026 Saudi Pro League. If you are in the USA, find here how to watch the showdown, with complete information on kickoff times and where to tune in via TV and streaming services.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Al-Fayha vs Al Nassr on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
Al-Fayha vs Al Nassr
WHAT
Saudi Pro League
WHEN
2:00pm ET / 11:00am PT • Saturday, February 28, 2026
The Saudi Pro League title race is tightening, and Al Nassr suddenly have little margin for error. After securing three crucial points in their rescheduled Matchday 10 clash, Al Nassr managed to stay alone at the top of the table, but the pressure is mounting fast.
Both Al Hilal and Al Ahly picked up wins in Matchday 24, shrinking the gap and turning up the heat on Cristiano Ronaldo’s squad heading into their next outing. Now, Al Nassr must deliver again as they prepare to meet Al-Fayha, a mid-table side eager to shake up the standings and boost their own ambitions with a statement result.
More details on how to watch
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In the space of just 24 hours, the Portuguese icon has already begun reshaping the trajectory of Almeria after acquiring a 25% stake in the Spanish second-division club, sparking what many are already calling the “GOAT effect.”
Cristiano Ronaldo has done it again. This time, however, the impact has not come from a free-kick, a towering header, or a last-minute winner, but from a move in the boardroom. In the space of just 24 hours, the Portuguese icon has already begun reshaping the trajectory of Almeria after acquiring a 25% stake in the Spanish second-division club, sparking what many are already calling the “GOAT effect.”
The announcement confirmed that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner completed the deal through CR7 Sports Investments, a subsidiary of CR7 S.A., marking a significant step in his growing business empire and signaling a clear vision beyond his playing career. In a statement published on the club’s official website, the Andalusian side outlined the scale of the move.
“Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired a 25% stake in UD Almeria through CR7 Sports Investments, a subsidiary of CR7 S.A., marking a major step in both the Club’s international expansion and the Portuguese icon’s growing investment portfolio,” the club confirmed.
Club president Mohamed Al Khereiji welcomed Ronaldo’s arrival with visible enthusiasm: “We’re very pleased that Cristiano has chosen our Club to invest in,” he said. “He is considered the greatest player in history, knows Spanish football extremely well and understands the potential we are building both in the first team and at Academy level.”
Official statement:
Cristiano Ronaldo invests in UD Almería as part of the club ownership consortium led by SMC Group pic.twitter.com/0lk92FUjPH
Ronaldo himself made clear that this is not a symbolic gesture but part of a broader ambition. “It has been a long-held ambition of mine to contribute to football beyond just on the pitch,” he stated. “UD Almeria is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth. I look forward to working alongside the leadership team to support the next phase of the club’s growth.”
The hidden impact revealed
While the financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed, the immediate impact has been impossible to ignore. Within just one day of the announcement, Almeria gained nearly three million followers on Instagram, with the club’s account skyrocketing from roughly 10,000 to approximately 2.8 million followers in 24 hours.
UD Almeria’s Instagram followers before and after Cristiano Ronaldo’s co ownership.😳
The surge represents one of the most dramatic social media growth spikes ever recorded by a European second-division side, a clear illustration of Ronaldo’s unmatched global influence. The numbers also underline a powerful reality: Ronaldo’s brand transcends divisions, countries, and even roles. Whether as a player for Al-Nassr or now as a stakeholder in Spain, his presence alone generates worldwide attention.
Club on the brink of promotion
The timing of the investment could prove decisive. Almeria currently sits third in the Segunda Division with 48 points from 27 matches, trailing league leader Racing Santander by just two points. In Spain’s second tier, the top two teams secure automatic promotion to La Liga, while third to sixth enter a playoff for the final promotion spot.
ristiano Ronaldo (R) of Real Madrid is tackled by Marcelo Silva of UD Almeria
The club, founded in 1989, has experienced six seasons in La Liga, most recently in the 2022/23 campaign. Its historic peak came in the 2010-11 season with a Copa del Rey semi-final run. Now, with promotion within reach, Ronaldo’s arrival adds not just capital but global visibility and commercial leverage at a critical juncture.
Italy and Milan legend Paolo Maldini surprisingly sent one of his signed match-worn shirts to Barcelona talent Gerard Martin for his birthday: ‘Good luck with your career.’
Former Italy defender Paolo Maldini surprised Barcelona’s Gerard Martin for his birthday by sending one of his match-worn shirts to the Spain international.
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 23: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 02/03, Mailand; AC MAILAND – FC BAYERN MUENCHEN 2:1; SCHLUSS JUBEL TEAM MAILAND – Filippo INZAGHI, Paolo MALDINI, Clarence SEEDORF, Samuele DALLA BONA (Photo by Martin Rose/Bongarts/Getty Images)
Gerard Martin shared a picture of the gift on his Instagram account to thank the ex-Rossoneri star and director.
Maldini also wrote a message in Italian for the Barcelona defender: “To Gerard, happy birthday and good luck with your career. With affection, Paolo Maldini.”
LECCE, ITALY – JUNE 22: Paolo Maldini of Milan during the Serie A match between US Lecce and AC Milan at Stadio Via del Mare on June 22, 2020 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
Just like Maldini, Gerard Martin can play as either a left-back or a centre-back, and his Barcelona teammates have nicknamed him ‘Gerard Maldini,’ Sportmediaset reports.
Gerard Martin is under contract with Barcelona until 2028. He has scored one goal and provided six assists in 77 appearances with Barcelona since joining the Catalans in the summer of 2023.
Maldini’s gift for Gerard Martin
GERARD MARTIN E LA MAGLIA DI MALDINI
Gerard Martin, difensore del Barcellona, ha pubblicato una storia su Instagram per ringraziare Paolo Maldini che gli ha inviato una sua maglia numero 3 del Milan. Lo spagnolo non ha mai nascosto di aver l’ex capitano rossonero come idolo. pic.twitter.com/XrioC89EMW
Tuttosport reports that the only goalkeeper who will surely stay at Juventus in 2026-27 is third-choice Carlo Pinsoglio, while Tottenham and Nottingham Forest have set their sights on Federico Gatti.
Juventus are ready to open talks over a new contract for their coach, Luciano Spalletti, who expects some big signings over the summer.
Juventus’ possible changes in goal
Tuttosport, however, highlights that Juventus have already identified some players who might leave at the end of the season.
The goalkeeper situation looks a bit awkward as third-choice Pinsoglio has extended his stay until 2027, while Mattia Perin and Michele Di Gregorio could leave in the summer.
Gatti heading to the Premier League?
Perin already held talks with Genoa in the January window, while Di Gregorio is having a poor season and will likely be replaced in the new campaign.
Tuttosport adds that Gatti, who is no longer a regular starter in Turin, has attracted interest from Tottenham and Nottingham Forest.
Tottenham would be particularly interested in the Italian if Igor Tudor remains in North London beyond the summer.
Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini says Paulo Dybala ‘feels much better’ while Matias Soulé will miss tomorrow’s game against Juventus.
Roma and Juventus meet at the Stadio Olimpico tomorrow in a crucial Serie A game for either side.
The Giallorossi sit fourth, level on 50 points with Napoli, but Juventus follow in fifth with 46.
Roma vs. Juventus – Gasperini’s pre-match press conference
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Gian Piero Gasperini, manager of AS Roma, looks on before kick off at the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
“We are two teams that always try to reach the result through the playing style, and I think the same will happen tomorrow. Neither will want to speculate, and both will try to win,” Gasperini said at a press conference via Sky Sport Italia.
“Dybala feels much better. He worked with the team yesterday, but I won’t know until after today’s training whether he’ll be fit to play.”
Dybala, 32, has missed the last four Serie A matches due to knee problems, but could return tomorrow, while his compatriot Soulé won’t be eligible to play.
“I hope Soulé can join the team again next week,” Gasperini said.
“Our four-point lead is important because it reflects Roma’s work to this point, but I don’t think it will be decisive. I don’t see anyone strong enough to run away from the opponents so early.”
How many points will Roma need to qualify for the Champions League?
“It’s hard to predict. At least 70 points, but probably even more,” Gasp replied.
“Currently, we need a winning streak with many consecutive victories.
“Three months is a long time, and we must try to remain involved in all competitions. There could be variables, such as injuries and suspensions, but we must aim for the best in every game.”
“It’s unfortunate because we are talking about two Italian teams who could have gone ahead, and this penalises us for the ranking,” Gasperini said.
ROME, ITALY – AUGUST 23: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma runs with the ball under pressure from Lorenzo De Silvestri of Bologna during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Bologna FC 1909 at Stadio Olimpico on August 23, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“You always have to raise the bar in these matches, and I think the most important one will be the first leg, because if you don’t have a good approach, you risk not being able to recover.”
The game against Juventus is a special one for Gasp, an ex-youth coach with the Bianconeri.
Gasperini also worked with Teun Koopmeiners at Atalanta, but the Dutchman seems to be one of the many players who begin to struggle as soon as they leave Bergamo.
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – FEBRUARY 17: Teun Koopmeiners of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off First Leg match between Galatasaray A.S. and Juventus at Ali Sami Yen Spor Kompleksi on February 17, 2026 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Burak Kara/Getty Images)
“I don’t think so. Here I have Mancini and Cristante, who have increased and matured,” noted Gasperini.
“What I can say about Koopmeiners is that he was a strong player of that Atalanta side. Recently, he has also scored two goals.
“Juventus were like a gym for me, where I improved personally and in footballing terms. It’s a club where football has always been done very well. I had the chance to go abroad and look at other players; it was a great experience.”
There will reportedly be a number of new VAR rules in place for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, as reported by BBC Sport.
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Football fans everywhere now will be familiar with referees consulting the pitch-side screen to take a closer look at key incidents during games.
It’s not been the most popular addition to the sport, but it seems it’s not going anywhere, with the technology now set to be consulted for even more incidents.
As explained by BBC Sport’s report, ‘Corners and second yellow cards will be added to the scope of the video assistant referee (VAR) for this summer’s World Cup.’
Referee looking at VAR during a Premier League game (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Other rule changes for the 2026 World Cup
The report also explains that there will be new rules in place to cut down on time wasting by teams to ensure games flow more quickly.
This will be achieved by countdowns on goal kicks, throw-ins, and substitutions, which have so often been taken slowly by teams if they’re protecting a narrow lead late in games.
Having said that, one main criticism of VAR is that it slows games down, and it’s now only going to be even more involved than before, so it’s hard to see how this will be a net positive when it comes to enjoying a fast-paced game.
New offside to be trialled
BBC Sport’s report also explains that other new rules will be trialled soon, including Arsene Wenger’s recommended new offside law.
This would require clear ‘daylight’ between an attacker and the last defender, with the current law often criticised due to goals being chalked off just by virtue of a player being just millimetres ahead of an opponent, barely gaining any meaningful advantage at all.
Former Arsenal star Anders Limpar has suggested that the Gunners don’t need to sign Sandro Tonali as they already have such superb options in midfield.
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It could be that we’ll see Arsenal coming back in for Tonali at some point, but Limpar is unsure it’s the kind of deal the club need to be focusing on.
Mikel Arteta has mainly used Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi as his first-choice midfield pairing this season, and they’ve both performed really well.
There’s also Christian Norgaard as a reliable backup option, and Limpar actually singled him out for praise.
Arsenal told they don’t need Sandro Tonali
Christian Norgaard in action for Arsenal (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Discussing the Tonali links, Limpar made it clear he thinks Arteta already has all the midfielders he needs, including Norgaard as a highly reliable backup option.
“I am not sure if Sandro Tonali can add anything to the midfield,” Limpar told SpilXperten.
“We have Zubimendi, Declan Rice and even Merino who will come back. We have Norgaard who is unbelievable as well.
“Should they splash the cash for a player like Tonali? He would be number five. He is a hell of a player, but I am not sure he would strengthen Arsenal.
“If Norgaard plays regularly and is trusted by the manager, he is going to be unbelievable for Arsenal, but he is not playing because Zubimendi and Rice are playing amazingly.
“The midfield is not a spot where Arsenal needs a new player. They have five world class players, so Tonali wouldn’t fit in. In my opinion we shouldn’t buy him.”
Fabrizio Romano has spoken this week about Arsenal targeting a midfielder as one of their three main priorities for the summer, so that could mean Tonali is one of the names they’ll consider.
The Gunners are also after a winger and a young right-back to bolster their squad.
Liverpool reportedly want as much as €100m to sell Cody Gakpo this summer as he’s emerging as a transfer target for Atletico Madrid.
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And perhaps worryingly for the Reds, it seems Gakpo is tempted by the prospect of a move like this one, which would allow him to become more of a key player.
That’s according to Spanish outlet Fichajes, who also add that the Netherlands international might also favour playing in La Liga over the Premier League at this stage of his career.
Gakpo has mostly done quite well for Liverpool, but he’s also been a tad inconsistent and might well flourish if he moves to a different league with a less frantic and demanding playing style.
Cody Gakpo transfer saga could get complicated
Cody Gakpo in action for Liverpool vs Burnley (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
It seems Gakpo could be keen to leave Liverpool if the right offer comes along, with Atletico certainly looking like a good opportunity for the 26-year-old.
However, LFC want to keep Gakpo, and it’s hard to see anyone in their right mind paying as much as €100m for the former PSV man.
Gakpo has seven goals and four assists for Liverpool so far this season, which doesn’t exactly scream ‘€100m player’ by any stretch of the imagination.
If anything, the Merseyside giants would probably do well to consider offers for Gakpo if there is indeed interest.
Were Liverpool to lower their price a bit, they could probably make decent money from selling someone who wouldn’t even be that hard to replace.
Michael Olise has been described as one to keep an eye on by David Lynch via TEAMtalk, while Yan Diomande has also been linked with Liverpool by Christian Falk via CF Bayern Insider.
Olise has been a world class performer for Bayern, and also has Premier League experience, while Diomande looks like an exciting young talent who, at 19 years of age, can still improve, whereas Gakpo may already be more or less at the peak of his powers.
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The Brazil international has not always been a regular starter for the Gunners this season, and it seems he could now be open to leaving the Emirates Stadium.
That’s according to a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes, which states some initial contacts have taken place over bringing the €45m-rated Martinelli to Barca, where he’d be given a key role.
This could be an issue for Manchester United, however, as Marcus Rashford is currently on loan at Barcelona for this season.
Gabriel Martinelli transfer to Barcelona and what it could mean for Marcus Rashford
Gabriel Martinelli in action for Arsenal (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Although Martinelli can play a variety of positions, he’s arguably best suited to playing as a left-sided forward like Rashford.
So far, Rashford has performed well for Hansi Flick’s side during his loan spell from Man Utd, but it’s hard to see him and Martinelli fitting into the same team.
United will be desperate to sell Rashford permanently after this loan stint, but that will be harder if Barcelona decide to go for Martinelli instead.
Arsenal could sell Gabriel Martinelli amid winger links
Martinelli leaving Arsenal perhaps makes sense following Fabrizio Romano’s report that the north London giants are looking at signing a new winger this summer.
Speaking on YouTube recently, Romano said that a winger was a key target for Arsenal this summer, along with a midfielder and a right-back.
Although Romano did not name any specific names, it would surely make sense for AFC to look for an upgrade on the likes of Martinelli and the ageing Leandro Trossard on that left-hand side.
On the other flank, Arsenal already have star player Bukayo Saka and a very capable backup in the form of Noni Madueke, while youngsters Ethan Nwaneri and Max Dowman can also play there.
One name to keep an eye on could be AC Milan star Rafael Leao, with Football Transfers recently reporting on the Portugal international being a target for Arsenal.
Borussia Dortmund receive Bayern Munich for Matchday 24 of the 2025–2026 Bundesliga season. Find out here how fans in the United States can watch the showdown, with complete information on kickoff times and where to tune in via TV and streaming services.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern Munich on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern Munich
WHAT
Bundesliga
WHEN
12:30pm ET / 9:30am PT • Saturday, February 28, 2026
One of Europe’s marquee rivalries returns this weekend as the Bundesligadelivers another edition of Der Klassiker, with Borussia Dortmund hosting Bayern Munich in a matchup that could shape the title race. Bayernenter the showdown atop the table with 60 points and an eight-point cushion over second-place Dortmund.
This gap that—while not mathematically decisive—would feel overwhelming if it grows any larger. For Dortmund, the stakes are crystal clear: protect home turf and tighten the race, or risk watching their biggest rival all but slam the door on another league crown.
More details on how to watch
With ESPN+, you can watch Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern and tons more soccer games. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, Apple, Android, and Amazon Fire devices, Roku, Samsung Smart TV, Chromecast, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Oculus Go.
Now with ESPN+, you can stream Bundesliga, LaLiga, FA Cup, Eredivisie, NWSL, USL and more.
Even better, ESPN is now offering The Disney Bundle that includes ESPN+, Hulu and Disney+ for only $14.99 per month. Not only do you get all of the soccer with ESPN+, but you also get hit movies and TV shows with Hulu AND you get Disney+ that features Star Wars, Marvel movies, Disney movies and shows, films from Pixar and feature documentaries from National Geographic.
In addition to all of the soccer coverage, ESPN+ also includes UFC, MLB, MLS, NHL, select PGA TOUR golf, Top Rank Boxing, cricket and Grand Slam tennis from Wimbledon to the US Open and Australian Open. Plus you get instant access to your favorite college sports like football, basketball, lacrosse, softball and more.
There’s also the daily ESPN FC show, 30 For 30 documentaries, exclusive access to studio programs and more.
If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full ESPN+ soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
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If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.
To find out when soccer games are on, download the free Soccer TV Schedules App which includes listings of all of the live soccer matches available in the United States (available on Apple iOS devices and Android devices).
The club enters the Al-Fayha fixture in the Saudi Pro League in formidable form, but uncertainty around its talisman has added intrigue to what is already a pivotal night in the championship battle.
Even at 41, Cristiano Ronaldo remains the central figure in the title race, with every team sheet scrutinized for his name. The club enters the Al-Fayha fixture in the Saudi Pro League in formidable form, but uncertainty around its talisman has added intrigue to what is already a pivotal night in the championship battle.
Al-Nassr currently sits second in the Saudi Pro League table, locked in a fierce contest at the summit. A victory would strengthen its grip on the title chase, particularly with rivals applying pressure just days earlier. Meanwhile, Al-Fayha approaches the clash from mid-table, determined to protect its impressive home record and potentially disrupt the ambitions of the league’s most star-studded side.
Under Jorge Jesus, the Riyadh side has evolved into a relentless force. It has strung together 11 consecutive wins across competitions, conceding just once in its last 10 matches and scoring a league-best 62 goals in 23 games. Defensive solidity has complemented attacking firepower, with nine clean sheets recorded during this streak.
The most recent outing, a commanding 5-0 demolition of Al-Najma, showcased both dominance and balance. Ronaldo opened the scoring, continuing his pursuit of personal milestones while reinforcing his influence on the title charge. The Portuguese icon now boasts 21 league goals and four assists in 25 appearances this season.
Al-Nassr’s pursuit of the title has grown more complicated after Al-Ahli briefly reclaimed top spot with a narrow win. The margin at the summit is razor-thin, and every dropped point could prove decisive. Al-Fayha, though 10 points clear of relegation, is no pushover at home. The side is unbeaten in five consecutive home matches and has shown resilience against stronger opponents. Defensive lapses have cost it against elite clubs, but its compact structure often frustrates visiting giants.
Will Ronaldo play?
Now to the mystery surrounding the fixture: Will Cristiano Ronaldo feature against Al-Fayha? There had been doubts. The veteran forward played 56 minutes in the rout of Al-Najma before being withdrawn with the result secured. Observers noted his absence from certain training sessions, fueling speculation that rest might be prioritized given his age and the demanding run-in ahead.
However, projected lineups from Saudi outlet Al-Youm suggest Jorge Jesus intends to deploy his strongest available XI. According to the publication, Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to lead the front line, supported by the attacking trio of Sadio Mane, Joao Felix, and Kingsley Coman.
Kingsley Coman celebrating with Cristiano Ronaldo Al-Nassr FC’s fourth goal.
Jayden Addai and Martin Baturina are injured for the home side, and coach Cesc Fabregas partially rotates his team ahead of next week’s Coppa Italia semifinal against Inter.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Como 1907 fans show their support during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Nico Paz is available after missing last week’s away game at Juventus, which Como won 2- 0, but starts on the bench.
Marc-Oliver Kempf gets the nod in central defence alongside Jacobo Ramon.
Lecce have travelled to Como without the injured Medon Berisha, Francesco Camarda, Jay Gorter and Kialonda Gaspar.
UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 25: Eusebio Di Francesco, manager of US Lecce, reacts during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and US Lecce at Stadio Friuli on October 25, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Cheddira starts as a centre-forward for the Giallorossi with Lameck Banda on the right wing and Riccardo Sottil initially on the bench.
Como sit 6th in the Serie A table, just five points below a Champions League placement, while Lecce are in the relegation zone, but level on 24 points with Fiorentina and Cremonese.
Como vs. Lecce – official line-ups
Como: Butez; Van der Brempt, Ramon, Kempf, Alberto Moreno; Perrone, Da Cunha; Vojvoda, Caqueret, Jesus Rodriguez; Douvikas.
PSG-owned striker Randal Kolo Muani reportedly remains Juventus’ top target for next season, especially as Dusan Vlahovic’s future in Turin is still uncertain.
Juventus are preparing to open contract extension talks with Luciano Spalletti, but, as reported by Tuttosport, the coach’s future at the Allianz Stadium largely depends on Juventus’ plans for the future and their summer transfer campaign.
Juventus remain interested in Kolo Muani
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 02: Randal Kolo Muani of Tottenham Hotspur looks on during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur at St James’ Park on December 02, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
The Turin-based paper claims that Spalletti expects one big signing in each department, and Tottenham loanee Kolo Muani remains the Bianconeri’s primary target for 2026-27.
The Old Lady already tried to bring the Frenchman back to Turin in the January window, but Spurs refused to let him leave.
According to the report, Juventus will want to sign Kolo Muani next summer regardless of Vlahovic’s future. The Serbia international’s contract expires in June, and contract extension talks should resume next week.
Who could leave Juventus in 2026-27?
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JULY 01: Michele Di Gregorio #29 of Juventus FC save a shot from Aurelien Tchouameni (not pictured) #14 of Real Madrid C.F. during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 round of 16 match between Real Madrid CF and Juventus FC at Hard Rock Stadium on July 01, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Tuttosport adds that Juventus have also opened talks with other reinforcements across different departments, including full-backs Oscar Mingueza and Roma’s Zeki Celik, who are available as free agents.
Bernardo Silva, also available for free at the end of his contract in June, and Sandro Tonali are the main targets in central midfield, while Teun Koopmeiners will leave.
The same is true of Federico Gatti, who has attracted interest from the Premier League, as well as goalkeepers Michele Di Gregorio and Mattia Perin.
Former Inter and Italy striker Alessandro Altobelli predicts the Nerazzurri will win the Scudetto even if they lose the Milan derby next week: ‘The Scudetto and Coppa Italia would be an incredible double.’
Inter host Genoa in Serie A tonight, days after a painful Champions League elimination in the knockout play-off at the hands of Bodo/Glimt.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu reacts during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri lost both games against the Norwegians, being eliminated with a 2-5 loss.
“I think they’ve already overcome it. Inter are a team that knows how to look ahead; it’s a page that must be forgotten,” Altobelli, one of the best scorers in Inter’s history, told Gazzetta.
“The competition is different in Europe, and I’d settle for winning two trophies in every season.
Coppa Italia and Scudetto ‘incredible’ for Inter
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: FC Internazionale Milano players celebrate their team’s first goal which was an own goal scored by Andrea Cambiaso of Juventus (not pictured) during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“The 10-point gap is very hard to fill for [second-placed] Milan,” continued the ex-striker.
“Inter have proved to be the best team in the league, the one that plays better football and has more ideas and depth. Now they only have to reach this target. They owe it to their fans. I would say these targets, as I add the Coppa Italia too. It would be an incredible double.”
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale is challenged by Fikayo Tomori of AC Milan during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Originally from Manchester, having joined Chelsea from Manchester City, there has been speculation from the Sun about him being keen to move back up north.
Still, according to the Evening Standard, Chelsea feel confident of keeping Palmer despite potential pressure of huge losses.
Cole Palmer has been linked with Manchester United
Cole Palmer celebrates scoring for Chelsea against Wolves (Photo by Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images)
It remains to be seen if Palmer would realistically go back and play regularly at Man City, but there have been some interesting links with Manchester United.
The 23-year-old’s friend, Manchester-based rapper Tunde, has recently been quoted by Goal as saying he’s going to try to lure the player to Old Trafford and strongly hinted he’s a Man Utd fan.
The Red Devils would surely love to make a marquee signing like this to bolster their attacking options, especially as Bruno Fernandes isn’t getting any younger and might soon need replacing.
Still, CFC seem optimistic about their chances of keeping Palmer, so this story currently seems unlikely to really go anywhere.
Chelsea’s financial problems explained
As noted in the Evening Standard’s report, ‘Chelsea suffered the highest pre-tax losses in the history of English football in the 2024-25 season’.
The west London giants have spent huge sums on new players under their current owners, and this has apparently led to pre-tax losses of £355m.
The report makes it clear, however, that Chelsea themselves dispute these figures, which have come from UEFA.
It seems the Blues see this as a bit of a one-off and are therefore not expecting it to put them under pressure to sell their star players like Palmer.
Newcastle United could reportedly be prepared to consider selling Nick Woltemade already, with the German striker not having an entirely convincing first season at St James’ Park.
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Woltemade joined Newcastle from Stuttgart last summer and his fine form during his time in the Bundesliga means he’s seemingly still on the radar of Bayern Munich.
That price is estimated to be £69m, but the internal feeling seems to be that the 24-year-old can still come good at Newcastle.
Eddie Howe wants to give Nick Woltemade more time at Newcastle
Nick Woltemade in action for Newcastle vs Man Utd (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe still has belief in Woltemade, and it looks like he will try to allow the player more time to adapt.
It will be interesting to see, however, what position Woltemade ends up playing in the long run, as he has shone as both a centre-forward and as an attacking midfielder in his career so far.
For the time being, it looks like Woltemade is probably dropping deep too often to play up front in Howe’s system, but that’s something the manager and player can work on.
NUFC supporters will hope Woltemade can come good, or that another signing can perhaps come in to complement him in attack.
One thing that’s clear, however, is that they won’t come cheap amid interest from bigger clubs.
We saw how much Newcastle ended up banking from selling Alexander Isak to Liverpool last summer, so that’s an indication of how tough they could be to do business with.
Inter Milan expressed a strong interest in Liverpool’s Curtis Jones during the January transfer window, but the Premier League champions closed the door on any first-team sale amid a heavy injury crisis. Though primarily a midfielder, his versatility makes Jones an indispensable member of the squad whose injury list is long. Under Arne Slot this […]
Barcelona square off against Villarreal CF in a pivotal Matchday 26 clash of the 2025/26 La Liga campaign. Below is all the essential information for fans, from kickoff times to broadcast and streaming options so you can catch every minute of the action live.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Barcelona vs Villarreal on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
Barcelona vs Villarreal
WHAT
Spanish LaLiga
WHEN
10:15am ET / 6:15am PT • Saturday, February 28, 2026
The La Liga title race is heating up, and Barcelonasuddenly control their own destiny. After taking care of business against Levante and getting a helping hand from Osasuna’s upset of Real Madrid, the Blaugrana surged back to the top of the La Liga table with 61 points, reclaiming sole possession of first place.
Now comes another high-stakes test, as Barcelona look to defend their lead against a dangerous Villarreal side that sits third with 51 points. A win would strengthen Barcelona’s grip on the title chase, but for the Yellow Submarine, three points could blow the race wide open and turn a two-team battle into a three-way fight down the stretch.
More details on how to watch
With ESPN+, you can watch Barcelona vs Villarreal and tons more soccer games. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, Apple, Android, and Amazon Fire devices, Roku, Samsung Smart TV, Chromecast, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Oculus Go.
Now with ESPN+, you can stream Bundesliga, LaLiga, FA Cup, Eredivisie, NWSL, USL and more.
Even better, ESPN is now offering The Disney Bundle that includes ESPN+, Hulu and Disney+ for only $14.99 per month. Not only do you get all of the soccer with ESPN+, but you also get hit movies and TV shows with Hulu AND you get Disney+ that features Star Wars, Marvel movies, Disney movies and shows, films from Pixar and feature documentaries from National Geographic.
In addition to all of the soccer coverage, ESPN+ also includes UFC, MLB, MLS, NHL, select PGA TOUR golf, Top Rank Boxing, cricket and Grand Slam tennis from Wimbledon to the US Open and Australian Open. Plus you get instant access to your favorite college sports like football, basketball, lacrosse, softball and more.
There’s also the daily ESPN FC show, 30 For 30 documentaries, exclusive access to studio programs and more.
If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full ESPN+ soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.
To find out when soccer games are on, download the free Soccer TV Schedules App which includes listings of all of the live soccer matches available in the United States (available on Apple iOS devices and Android devices).
Nottingham Forest fans have criticised Italy striker Lorenzo Lucca after a 2-1 loss against Fenerbahce in the Europa League, and Sky Sport’s transfer expert Luca Marchetti argues that the striker’s behaviour ‘is not well-received’ in England.
Italy international Lucca has faced criticism from Forest fans on social media after his display in a 2-1 Europa League loss against Fenerbahce on Thursday.
The Italy international started the match, but was replaced after just 45 minutes.
LEEDS, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 06: Lorenzo Lucca of Nottingham Forest during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Nottingham Forest at Elland Road on February 06, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
The Italian striker had scored on his Nottingham Forest debut against Leeds in January, but that remains his only goal in five appearances in England, where he has collected less than 200 minutes of football since joining the Premier League side on loan from Napoli.
“Lucca may perhaps have had attitudes that not everyone liked, but this is not the starting point for making an assessment,” Sky Sport transfer expert Marchetti told Radio Marte (via TuttoNapoli)
“In football, it is the results that determine the mood; clubs have to evaluate a player from a technical standpoint. The player’s behaviour is not well received by the fans, not even in England, it seems. This should lead both the player and his entourage to reflect.”
Lucca back to Napoli in the summer?
LEEDS, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 06: Lorenzo Lucca of Nottingham Forest scores his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Nottingham Forest at Elland Road on February 06, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Lucca is on loan at Nottingham Forest until the end of the season, and the Premier League side can activate an option to make his move permanent for €35m.
Tuttomercato, however, warns that the striker’s future at Forest is already uncertain as his performances so far do not justify such an investment over the summer.
Tuttosport newspaper reports that Juventus directors will meet Luciano Spalletti next week to begin negotiations over a new contract.
Juventus have entered the crucial part of their season as they prepare for a key Serie A game against Roma on Sunday.
Juventus set to meet Spalletti over new contract
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Juvenus head coach Luciano Spalletti during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Spalletti’s contract expires at the end of the season and the Serie A giants have already decided to offer the Tuscan tactician a new deal.
According to Tuttosport, Spalletti is happy to continue at Juventus but wants guarantees regarding the club’s project, starting from next summer’s transfer campaign.
Tuttosport reports that the possible agreement between the club and the coach is not about money or salary, but rather about the club’s plans.
Spalletti’s requests to stay at Juventus
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Juventus FC head coach Luciano Spalletti looks on during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
According to the report, Spalletti expects one big signing in each department, but the Bianconeri’s budget will largely depend on whether they qualify for the Champions League.
Spalletti is fully backed by the club owner, John Elkann, who visited the team in the dressing room after Wednesday’s 3-2 win over Galatasaray, and the coach was positively impressed.
JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA – MARCH 09: Laurent Mekies, Team Principal of Visa Cash App RB embraces John Elkann on the grid prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Saudi Arabia at Jeddah Corniche Circuit on March 09, 2024 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images)
At the same time, however, Spalletti was so disappointed by the elimination and drained by the return leg in Turin that he spent a day at his home in Tuscany to recover.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: Nicolo’ Barella of FC Internazionale is challenged by Adrien Rabiot of AC Milan during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The most notable game over the next three rounds is undoubtedly the Milan derby, which will kick off on Sunday, March 8, at 20:45.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: A general view of the stadium during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
On the same day, Milan will visit Lazio (20:45 CET), while Inter host Atalanta on March 14 at 15:00 CET.
Round 30 sees Inter travel to Florence for an away game against Fiorentina, while Milan hosts Torino at San Siro and Juventus play at home against Sassuolo.
Below are the dates and kick-off times for Serie A Weeks 28,29 and 30 (CET time)
Chelsea fans will surely be hoping talks over new deals for Fernandez and Caicedo go well, as they look like two hugely important parts of this current project.
It’s not been the best period for Chelsea under their current owners, despite getting back into the Champions League and winning major silverware in the form of the Europa Conference League and the Club World Cup last year.
Most CFC supporters, however, will be keen to see their club challenging for the Premier League title again, but there’s not much evidence so far that their current transfer policy is working.
Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez celebrate during Chelsea vs Liverpool (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo have been two big success stories of this Chelsea project
There can be no doubt, however, that for all the BlueCo signings that have failed to live up to their potential, the deals for Fernandez and Caicedo have proven hugely successful.
The Argentina international and Ecuador international are among the best players in the world in their position, and keeping them is surely key to helping this project move forward.
It’s easy to see why Real Madrid would have been interested in them, but it now looks like the west Londoners don’t need to worry as much about the Spanish giants.
Real Madrid looking elsewhere for midfielders
Stats comparison of Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, Vitinha, and Dominik Szoboszlai (DataMB)
TEAMtalk go on to say that Real are looking at other midfield targets, such as Paris Saint-Germain star Vitinha.
The report also suggests some possible bad news for Liverpool, with Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai also named as options they’re considering.
If Chelsea finish above Liverpool in the Premier League this season and beat them to a Champions League spot then that would certainly make this saga very interesting.
Manchester United have not been given much hope of sealing the transfer of Newcastle United central defender Malick Thiaw.
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The Germany international has shone during his first season at St James’ Park after a summer move from AC Milan, and it seems that the Magpies are unsurprisingly keen to keep him.
This sounds like a bit of a blow for the Red Devils, who could do with a defensive signing of Thiaw’s calibre, but who will likely have to look elsewhere instead.
Malick Thiaw in action for Newcastle United (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)
Newcastle need to avoid selling Malick Thiaw and other star players
Thiaw is alongside other star players such as Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali, and Anthony Gordon in attracting interest from bigger clubs.
However, it seems Newcastle’s chances of selling Thiaw aren’t seen as that high, with the 24-year-old impressing in his first season and not someone the club would want to lose that quickly.
After losing Alexander Isak to Liverpool last summer it generally seems Newcastle are now eager to avoid losing more big names.
NUFC also have high asking prices for the likes of Tonali and Guimaraes, so fans of the club will hope this puts off any prospective buyers.
It will also be interesting to see how Thiaw continues to develop, as if he has another strong season it’s surely only going to get harder and harder to keep hold of him.
Following the sacking of Ruben Amorim, however, Evans has been back on the coaching staff for the Red Devils, and he’s having a particular impact with his work on the team’s set-pieces.
That’s according to the Telegraph, who state that Evans masterminded the well-worked corner routine for the opening goal in the recent win over Tottenham.
Jonny Evans playing a key role under Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick celebrates with his coaching staff during Man United’s win at Arsenal (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
The report goes into a lot of depth about Carrick’s impact since replacing Amorim, and it seems the fact that he delegates to his coaches is one important detail.
When Amorim was in charge, it seems his younger staff were a little quiet and hesitant to speak up, but Carrick seems content to be challenged by the likes of Evans and Jonathan Woodgate.
It’s also increasingly clear how important set-pieces are now in the modern game, so if Evans can continue to help United in that area it could be crucial for closing the gap on the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal.
What else has changed at Manchester United?
It seems Carrick’s training sessions are also a bit shorter, as are team meetings, while players have appreciated time off on Sundays.
This seems to have gone a long way to improving the mood at the club, and it’s easy to see that when the team generally looks a lot happier with the way they’re performing on the pitch.
A lot of that is obviously down to tactics, with Carrick reverting to using a back four and putting Kobbie Mainoo back into the starting line up.
But it seems there is also important work going on behind the scenes to lift the team, with former players like Evans also clearly having a key role as this looks like a team with more of an identity again.
Inter Milan expressed a strong interest in Liverpool’s Curtis Jones during the January transfer window, but the Premier League champions closed the door on any first-team sale amid a heavy injury crisis. Though primarily a midfielder, his versatility makes Jones an indispensable member of the squad whose injury list is long. Under Arne Slot this […]
Chelsea will take a short trip across London to face Premier League leaders Arsenal at the Emirates on Sunday. Interim manager Liam Rosenior is currently working around a number of injury absences in his squad, and he has provided some news on the players in question ahead of the Gunners showdown. “Unfortunately, Estevao will be […]
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Borussia Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy is one of Milan’s main targets in attack for 2026-27 alongside Mateo Retegui and Chelsea-owned striker Nicolas Jackson.
Milan have prioritise the purchase of a new centre-forward during the summer transfer window, especially as the Rossoneri will likely play in the Champions League next season.
Milan target Guirassy for 2026-27
DORTMUND, GERMANY – FEBRUARY 17: Serhou Guirassy of Borussia Dortmund is challenged by Odilon Kossounou of Atalanta during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off First Leg match between Borussia Dortmund and Atalanta BC at BVB Stadion Dortmund on February 17, 2026 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Pau Barrena/Getty Images)
According to Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, Borussia Dortmund’s Guirassy is their main target despite a €70m clause, which the Rossoneri are unwilling to pay.
Guirassy will turn 30 in just a few days and was on Milan’s agenda even a few years ago, before his €17m move from Stuttgart to Dortmund.
According to Gazzetta, the striker is tempted to try a new experience in a new country after playing in France and Germany.
The Rossoneri won’t make another attempt for Jean-Philippe Mateta, while their summer target, Darwin Nunez, would love to return to Europe from Al-Hilal, but he is not a priority for Milan.
Other Milan options in attack
UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Mateo Retegui of Italy scores his team’s second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Israel at Stadio Friuli on October 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
On the other hand, Nicolas Jackson and Mateo Retegui are high on the Rossoneri’s agenda and were already in talks with Milan last summer.
The Italy international eventually joined Al Qadsiah from Atalanta, while Jackson moved to Bayern Munich from Chelsea on loan with an option to buy.
Having played barely 600 minutes across all competitions this season, Jackson will not join Bayern permanently in the summer and will return to Chelsea at the end of the current campaign.
Ange-Yoan Bonny is reportedly favourite over Francesco Pio Esposito to partner with Marcus Thuram in the Inter attack in a Serie A match against Genoa.
It kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 GMT) at the Stadio Meazza in San Siro, Milan.
Alessandro Bastoni is suspended for the Nerazzurri, Lautaro Martinez is injured, but Hakan Calhanoglu has recovered and will start on the bench.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 09: Ange-Yoan Bonny of Internazionale scores his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and SS Lazio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 09, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
According to Sky Sport and Gazzetta, Bonny is the favourite over Pio Esposito in attack, while Thuram will surely start.
Carlos Augusto will replace the suspended Bastoni in a three-man defence, and Francesco Acerbi is expected to get the nod in place of Yann Bisseck, who should rest.
Nicolò Barella, Piotr Zielinski and Henrikh Mkhitaryan are the favourites to start in the middle of the park for the Nerazzurri.
Benjamin Siegrist, Broke Norton-Cuffy and Sebastian Otoa are injured for Genoa, who will look to Vitinha and ex-Milan striker Lorenzo Colombo in attack.
With a win, Inter would move 13 points above their city rivals Milan, who will have a game in hand, ahead of next week’s derby.
Inter vs. Genoa – where to watch on TV
The match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1 and DAZN in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a live blog.
Inter vs. Genoa – probable line-ups
Inter (3-5-2): Sommer; Akanji, Acerbi, Carlos Augusto; Luis Henrique, Barella, Zielinski, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Thuram, Bonny.
The Partenopei still have several players out of action, including Scott McTominay and Frank Zambo Anguissa.
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – DECEMBER 18: Matteo Politano of SSC Napoli runs with the ball during the Supercoppa Italiana Semi-Final match between SSC Napoli and AC Milan at King Saud University Stadium on December 18, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
According to several sources, including Gazzetta and Sky Sport Italia, Alex Meret will start in goal for Napoli, while the three-man attack will continue to be composed of Antonio Vergara, Alisson Santos and Rasmus Hojlund.
With De Bruyne, McTominay and Anguissa still injured, Stanislav Lobotka and Eljif Elmas will start in central midfield with Politano and Leonardo Spinazzola on the flanks in a 3-4-2-1 system.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 07: Rasmus Hojlund of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his side second goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 07, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Another Italy international, Alessandro Buongiorno, will start in central defence.
Scotland international Kieron Bowie will lead the Gialloblu attack alongside Amin, as Gift Orban is still suspended. The same is true for central midfielder Moatesen Al-Musrati, while Antoine Bernede, Rafik Belghali, Suat Serdar, Pol Lirola and Sandi Lovric are injured.
Verona vs. Napoli – where to watch on TV
The match will be broadcast live on DAZN in the UK and Ireland and Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a live blog.
Europa League: Bologna-Roma. Conference: Fiorentina-Rakow
Scudetto at all costs
Inter and the Bodo shock to overcome
There’s Genoa at San Siro at 20:45. Chivu commands: to the derby with the maximum advantage. The plan to avoid Inzaghi’s finale. Idea Bonny-Thuram up front
A No.9 worthy of Milan
A centre-forward is needed. Guirassy favourite over Jackson and Retegui
Music masters
Gasp against Spalletti: why there’s more at stake than the fourth spot
Corriere dello Sport
Exclusive
Boniek speaks out
‘Lucio is stressed’
‘He has nobody decisive in super games.’ Gasp, here’s Dybala
‘I don’t see the Bianconeri well. Gian Piero plays better. I have the two shirts of my heart. The Avvocato? Unique style. I was in love with Viola, I hate divers, they must be punished.’
Politano, Champions card
Not only crosses and runs: the winger wants to score his first goal. Anguissa’s recovery is postponed.
Inter visit those wounded in Crans
President Marotta at the Niguarda hospital alongside Barella and Dimarco. Chivu for the +13: space for Bonny.
Tuttosport
New confirmations on the possible return of the Croat
Toro, Juric supports D’Aversa too
New Juve for Spalletti
Renewal close: meeting next week
The coach (isolated in Tuscany to recover from the European disappointment) asks for guarantees to sign until 2028, the club is ready to satisfy him: from the staff, with a goalkeeper specialist, to the players, with a big player for each department. Bernardo Silva in midfield, Vlahovic’s confirmation, joined by Kolo Muani, in attack: all the options.
Beware of Kane, but Atalanta have no fear
First time against Bayern for La Dea. Europa League: derby Bologna-Roma. Conference: Fiorentina-Rakow.
Still, the report adds that Tonali is said to have given Newcastle sporting director Ross Wilson and manager Eddie Howe assurances over his future.
It seems Tonali doesn’t currently look likely to push for a move away from St James’ Park, though the Telegraph’s report suggests that could still change if a top club shows a strong interest.
Sandro Tonali waves to the Newcastle United fans (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
How likely is it that Arsenal sign Sandro Tonali this summer?
Fabrizio Romano has spoken this week about Arsenal targeting a midfielder as one of their three main priorities for the summer, so that could mean Tonali is one of the names they’ll consider.
The 25-year-old has shone for Newcastle and looks like he could be good fit for Mikel Arteta’s side, providing an alternative in the middle of the park that could allow Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi to rest more often.
Arsenal’s interest in Tonali was also reported by the Athletic in January, and though a deal couldn’t happen so late on in the window, it may perhaps set the tone for the months ahead.
The former Brentford man is perhaps not content with the limited role he’s played since joining the Gunners last summer, with the Sun saying he’s already unsettled and considering leaving.
Norgaard has been the club’s backup to Rice and Zubimendi, so if he does leave then bringing in someone like Tonali could be a good move, though of course the former AC Milan man would surely require assurances over his playing time in north London.
Those are Brentford’s Michael Kayode and Newcastle’s Tino Livramento, though there have not yet been concrete talks over these deals.
Arsenal’s search for a new right-back and what it means for Ben White
White is currently only focused on the rest of the season with Arsenal, but it’s no surprise that clubs are keeping an eye on his situation.
Although I cannot yet name specific teams possibly keen on him, I’ve been made aware that he has admirers across Europe and is valued at around £30m.
Fresneda currently looks like the best fit to replace White, with Arsenal having looked closely at him before.
Ivan Fresneda in action for Sporting Lisbon (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images)
The 21-year-old has gone on to improve during his time at Sporting and he looks an ideal fit for what AFC are looking for as someone to compete with Jurrien Timber for a place in Mikel Arteta’s starting line up.
Many Gooners would surely be disappointed to see White leave, but he’s struggled for playing time this season, starting only 13 matches in all competitions.
Who should Arsenal sign at right-back?
While Fresneda looks a fine stylistic fit for Arsenal, it’s not yet clear if they’ll definitely go for him as some may well feel they’d do better to opt for Premier League-proven players like Kayode or Livramento.
Aston Villa may no longer be the favourites to sign Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford this summer as Tottenham are reportedly accelerating plans to land the English shot-stopper.
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According to TEAMtalk, it also seems that Trafford is open to the likes of Newcastle United anyway, while Spurs are described as accelerating their plans to snap up the 23-year-old.
It seems clear that Trafford will have plenty of options available to him if he does leave Man City this summer, having struggled for playing time since his move to the Etihad Stadium from Burnley just a few months ago.
Man City goalkeeper James Trafford in action (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Where should James Trafford go next after disappointing Manchester City spell?
Trafford makes sense as a long-term replacement for Emiliano Martinez at Villa Park, and if he could guarantee himself the number one spot for a Champions League club then he’ll have done very well despite the disappointment of spending so much of this season on the City bench.
Newcastle could also be an exciting project for Trafford, who would likely have little trouble establishing himself as Eddie Howe’s first choice as the club look in need of a long-term successor to the ageing Nick Pope, while Aaron Ramsdale is only at St James’ Park on loan for this season.
Elsewhere, Tottenham could also be a decent option for Trafford to consider as they’d likely make him their new number one over Guglielmo Vicario, though we’ll have to wait and see if the north Londoners can survive relegation this season.
Trafford initially looked like an exciting signing for City but the surprise availability of Gianluigi Donnarumma last summer has clearly had a major effect on how his time with Pep Guardiola’s side has played out.
Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick has hinted at a possible new contract for Harry Maguire despite him being close to becoming a free agent.
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The experienced England international has worked his way back into being a key player for the Red Devils, and it may now be that the veteran centre-back will be handed a surprise career lifeline at Old Trafford.
Carrick is clearly a big fan of Maguire, with the Guardian quoting him as praising the former Leicester City man and suggesting he hopes that will be more to come from him at United.
Michael Carrick on Harry Maguire
When asked about Maguire in his press conference yesterday, Carrick appeared to open the door for the 32-year-old to perhaps extend his stay with the club.
This would have seemed unimaginable not that long ago, but it seems far to say that Maguire has done really well to re-establish himself as an important part of this squad and a real leader on and off the pitch.
Harry Maguire waves to the Manchester United fans (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
“Harry’s an impressive character. He’s had a great career so far, hopefully there’s a lot more to come,” Carrick said.
“The journey and the experiences that he’s had, certainly since he’s been here and with England as well, showed exactly what he is. I think we all know the player that he is and what he’s capable of doing.
“The other night [against Everton] I thought he was fantastic. Experience helps. His attributes help, and his character. His willingness to put himself out there. He’s really impressive at his age and he’s been really important for us.”
Harry Maguire transfer interest ahead of the summer
Maguire may still end up staying at Man Utd, but if he doesn’t he will surely have plenty of suitors coming in for him this summer.
It’s not often players of this kind of quality and experience become available on free transfers, so one imagines he won’t be available for that long.
MUFC could do well, however, to keep Maguire for a bit longer as he’s finally showing how important he can be after some early struggles when he first joined the club.
Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones is reportedly expected to be a transfer target for Inter Milan again this summer after they first looked at him in January.
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The 25-year-old has been a key player for the Reds, but without usually being an automatic starter, so it could make sense for him to think about his future this summer.
Jones is coming towards the final year of his contract and this will likely see his asking price fall soon, with Inter seemingly keen to take advantage, according to Corriere dello Sport.
Liverpool fans won’t be too keen on the club letting Jones go, but this certainly seems like a story to watch due to his contract situation and role in Arne Slot’s team.
Curtis Jones could be a key player for Inter Milan
Curtis Jones in Liverpool FC training (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
Jones is a slightly underrated part of this LFC squad, and he seems like a player whose career could really take off in Serie A.
The England international will surely look at former Chelsea players like Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Christian Pulisic, and Fikayo Tomori at AC Milan, who have all done well at the San Siro despite not previously being key players at Stamford Bridge.
It probably wouldn’t be easy for Jones to leave Anfield after spending his entire career so far with his boyhood club, but Inter could be a good destination for him and it looks like he’s just at the right moment of his career to try a new challenge.
Newcastle United could reportedly have a host of big name players attracting interest this summer as the asking prices of the likes of Anthony Gordon and Tino Livramento have been revealed.
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The Magpies will surely want to avoid another summer like last year when the star player Alexander Isak ended up joining Liverpool in a big-money move.
The piece states that Gordon’s asking price could be as high as £100m, while that’s also the kind of figure Newcastle would expect for other star names like Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.
Elsewhere, there could also be slightly smaller sales, such as Joe Willock for £15m as he’s linked with Crystal Palace and Leeds United.
Tino Livramento of Newcastle United looks on (Photo by Annabel Lee-Ellis/Getty Images)
Who could leave Newcastle this summer?
One imagines that even if every player has his price, Newcastle will mostly do their best to keep as many of these players at St James’ Park as possible.
It is interesting, however, that the Telegraph only puts Lewis Miley down as someone who is absolutely not for sale.
With others like Gordon, Tonali, and Guimaraes, it seems a big enough offer would tempt NUFC, but they describe Miley as unsellable.
Other interesting names to watch could be Malick Thiaw, who has been linked with Manchester United and who could cost £80m, while the report also already suggests some doubt over Nick Woltemade’s future, with Bayern Munich perhaps still keen on the Germany international.
Who would you keep and who would you sell in this Newcastle squad this summer? Let us know in the comments!
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The England international makes sense as one of the big names who could leave the London Stadium if West Ham end up getting relegated to the Championship by the end of this campaign.
With the Hammers currently sitting in 18th place after a poor season, it’s no surprise Bowen views his future as uncertain, and that clubs like Man Utd and Tottenham are emerging as suitors, as reported by TEAMtalk.
Bowen has been a key player for West Ham down the years, and he’s surely too good to be dropping down to play into the Championship.
Jarrod Bowen in action for West Ham (Photo by James Fearn/Getty Images)
Could Jarrod Bowen strengthen Manchester United?
Some Red Devils fans might favour a more glamorous name to strengthen their attack this summer, but Bowen looks like a good potential opportunity on the market.
The 29-year-old is a proven Premier League performer, and has always done well despite having a largely mediocre team around him at West Ham.
With eight goals in 27 league games so far this season, and a total of 82 goals in 267 appearances for WHUFC, it’s easy to imagine Bowen being able to do even better at a bigger club.
Bowen 2025/26 form
Games
Goals
Assists
West Ham (PL)
27
8
3
Man United still need more depth in attack
United made a lot of changes to their attack last summer, bringing in an entire new front three in the form of Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha while the likes of Marcus Rashford, Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Alejandro Garnacho all left Old Trafford.
There is surely room for someone like Bowen to come in and add more depth, with the former Hull City man capable of playing on either flank or as a central striker.
It will be interesting to see how this develops if West Ham do go down, as there’ll surely be interest from other Premier League clubs in what could be a competitive race for Bowen’s signature this summer.
The move of Antoine Griezmann to the MLS with Orlando City may be at risk after Atletico Madrid's executive comments.
There have been some rumors about the possibility of a huge star joining MLS this year. It was reported that Antoine Griezmann has an offer from Orlando City that he may be considering, which prompted a response from an Atletico Madrid executive.
Friday determined the Champions League draw for the remainder of the competition, with many important people attending. One of them was Mateu Alemany, an executive from the Madrid club, who spoke about this.
Alemany said: “This is a topic that sparks much journalistic speculation. Antoine has two more years left on his contract with us; he’s focused on the things that are coming for the club. His performance has been great.”
Simeone on Griezmann’s stay with Atletico Madrid
Following the news that Tottenham are the rivals awaiting Atletico Madrid in the Champions League round of 16, Diego Simeone met with journalists to address several topics.
Simeone wishes to keep the player (Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
The continuity of Griezmann with Atletico Madrid has been the main topic in the club’s most recent press conferences. This has led the manager to show his exhaustion each time he is asked about the player.
Simeone said after avoiding the subject many times before: “I’m going to repeat it. We are talking with Antoine. We shouldn’t put pressure on or talk too much to him. He knows how important he is for us. We focus on the good things coming. There is no space.”
Griezmann’s deadline to join Orlando
The transfer window is not open in Europe for incoming players. However, the time limit depends on the league the player would join. This creates a problem for Atletico Madrid if Griezmann leaves for Orlando City.
In MLS, March 26 marks the last day teams can sign players. This is where a move looks more complicated, because it would mean leaving the club during the most important stretch of the season. Not moving now does not mean the Frenchman will not leave Spain, only that it may not happen immediately.
Argentina near the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and Lionel Messi is aiming to arrive in peak physical condition.
In just over three months, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the world’s biggest sporting event, will begin. With most national teams already qualified—and the remaining teams competing during the March FIFA break—players are focused on reaching the tournament in the best possible shape. Lionel Messi is no exception, concentrating on achieving peak fitness ahead of the challenge with Argentina.
“Messi is taking his physical preparation very seriously this year,” journalist Federico Bueno said on Disney+. “During his vacation in Argentina, he traveled with a personal trainer to work specifically on that aspect in Rosario, and he trained at a facility owned by Maxi Rodriguez.”
This shows that, despite taking a vacation of more than a month between the MLS 2025 final against Vancouver Whitecaps on December 6 and the start of preseason on January 17, Messi did not spend the time resting and relaxing. Instead, he worked hard to maintain his physical condition.
And that plan continues now, during the club season. “He constantly asks the Inter Miami staff to provide him with statistics on his physical performance in matches and training, such as distance covered,” the report added.
Lionel Scaloni head coach of Argentina talks with Lionel Messi.
Messi has a clear goal this year
These efforts reveal that Lionel Messi has a clear objective: to arrive in the best possible condition for the summer and ultimately confirm his place in the 26-man roster that coach Lionel Scaloni will select to represent Argentina at the World Cup.
In recent years, the forward has been cautious about his chances of playing in the FIFA tournament, which would be the sixth of his professional career, citing his age—he will turn 39 in June—as a factor that might prevent him from being physically ready. However, time has passed, and he continues to demonstrate a level high enough to participate.
Messi’s upcoming challenges
Before making a final decision, Lionel Messi will face several key tests. At the club level, he will play multiple matches in Major League Soccer as well as the Concacaf Champions Cup, which will help him gain match rhythm and assess his physical and sporting condition.
Even more importantly, he will soon have the chance to compete at the highest level with Argentina. On March 27 in Qatar, they will face Spain in the Finalissima, the tournament that brings together the champions of South America and Europe. An official match with a trophy at stake against one of the strongest national teams in the world, just over two months before the World Cup, will be a decisive test for Messi to determine whether he is ready to continue playing internationally.
With a blockbuster showdown against Manchester City looming in the UEFA Champions League, anxiety has rippled through the Santiago Bernabeu. The latest update, however, offers a more positive outlook.
Kylian Mbappe has been battling persistent knee discomfort for months, and fresh concerns emerged ahead of a decisive European night. With a blockbuster showdown against Manchester City looming in the UEFA Champions League, anxiety has rippled through the Santiago Bernabeu. The latest update, however, offers a more positive outlook and hints at a potential return window that could reshape Madrid’s continental ambitions.
Mbappe has been managing physical setbacks since arriving in Spain in the summer of 2024. Though he quickly became Real Madrid’s star player and attacking reference, injuries have intermittently disrupted his rhythm. In his debut season, a thigh injury sidelined him briefly in September and December 2024. He also missed the opening matches of the Club World Cup in June 2025 due to gastroenteritis. But the most persistent issue has been his left knee.
During the 2025-26 campaign, the Frenchman played through discomfort before being ruled out between December 31 and January 9. He returned for the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona, demonstrating his determination to compete in high-stakes matches. Yet that calculated gamble may have aggravated the condition.
The latest setback occurred on February 24, when discomfort flared up again before the Champions League play-off second leg against Benfica. The forward was forced to withdraw, missing Madrid’s 2-1 win and subsequently sitting out the league clash with Getafe.
Alvaro Arbeloa, Head Coach of Real Madrid, congratulates Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid for scoring.
Coach Alvaro Arbeloa confirmed the decision to pause Mbappe’s involvement. “I spoke with the doctors and with him, and we decided that he should stop and that he should come back at 100% to face everything that’s coming. From now on, we have to wait. We’ll see if it’s a matter of days, and we hope it doesn’t drag on too long,” he explained.
Conservative treatment for now
According to French sources and Spanish reports, Mbappe is dealing with inflammation in the lateral ligament of his left knee. Journalist Juanfe Sanz stated on El Chiringuito: “He is undergoing a conservative, preventive treatment that, for the moment, isn’t having good results. The pain is being contained. They rule out that it’s a very serious injury, but it does condition him.”
The situation is delicate. The World Cup is approaching, and Mbappe is reportedly reluctant to consider surgical intervention unless absolutely necessary. “I wouldn’t rule out the option of minor surgery if the conservative treatment doesn’t achieve positive results,” Sanz warned.
More outlook emerges
While uncertainty remains, optimism has grown in recent hours. According to Cadena COPE and relayed by Fabrizio Romano, there is a clearer internal projection regarding Mbappe’s recovery timeline. Romano wrote: “Kylian Mbappe is expected to return in time to face City in the Champions League round of 16,” citing COPE.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid reacts during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
That update provides a crucial boost. The Round of 16 fixtures are scheduled for March, with Madrid hosting the first leg at the Bernabeu before traveling to the Etihad. The draw has paired the two clubs for the fifth consecutive year in Europe’s elite competition — a rivalry that has defined recent Champions League campaigns.
Internally, Madrid reportedly expects Mbappe to be out for approximately 10 to 14 days, a timeframe designed to allow proper healing while minimizing long-term risk. The objective is measured recovery rather than rushed heroics.
The Champions League knockout stage represents Madrid’s ultimate proving ground. Facing Manchester City demands physical sharpness and tactical precision. Mbappe understands the stakes, but he also recognizes the need to protect his long-term fitness.
Jurgen Klopp has publicly embraced life away from the touchline, yet fresh reports suggest that change may not be entirely off the table.
Jurgen Klopp has once again found himself at the center of European soccer speculation. The former Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund manager, now working in an executive capacity, is being linked with a dramatic return to the dugout. With Real Madrid reportedly attentive to his situation and questions surfacing about his future in his current role, the debate has intensified. Jurgen Klopp has publicly embraced life away from the touchline, yet fresh reports suggest that change may not be entirely off the table.
According to Salzburger Nachrichten, Klopp is set to leave his position as Head of Global Football at Red Bull, barely more than a year after taking up the post. The 58-year-old stepped away from frontline coaching in 2024, ending a celebrated managerial spell and opting for a structural leadership role overseeing development across the Red Bull soccer network.
His mandate has been ambitious: drive growth, unify philosophy, and elevate multiple clubs within the system into title contenders. However, Austrian reports claim progress has not met expectations. Clubs such as Salzburg and Leipzig have not made the competitive leap that was anticipated, with the latter currently battling for a Champions League place and struggling for consistent form.
The report suggests ‘tension’ within the organization and claims Klopp has “become the perfect brand ambassador for the Salzburg-based beverage company. But this cannot mask the fact that his appointment has not yet had a positive impact in his actual area of responsibility.” It further indicates that Red Bull would not block a return to coaching this summer if Klopp wished to pursue one. That is where the mystery deepened.
Jurgen Klopp, Global Head of Soccer Red Bull group, is looking on.
Real Madrid and Germany: The temptation of the dugout
For months, Real Madrid has been loosely associated with Klopp, particularly after managerial instability and the end of Xabi Alonso’s tenure. The Spanish giant has been described as one of only two roles that could tempt Klopp out of retirement, ‘under the right conditions’. The other is the German national team, should the position become available following the 2026 World Cup, depending on Julian Nagelsmann’s future.
Klopp’s pedigree makes him a natural candidate. He delivered a Premier League title in 2019-20 with Liverpool and reached three Champions League finals, winning one. Before that, he transformed Dortmund into a domestic powerhouse and a European finalist. His ability to rebuild institutions and challenge dominant rivals, including Pep Guardiola, remains highly regarded across the continent. Yet Klopp himself has consistently downplayed the idea of returning to the relentless rhythm of club management.
Speaking to Servus TV in January, he explained: “I no longer wanted to live with this very tight schedule that I’ve had for over 25 years. The coaching market is being shaken up, and it’s not so bad to experience it all from an observer’s perspective and not think about what it might mean for you personally, because you’re in the right place where you are.”
Red Bull breaks its silence
As speculation escalated internationally, Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff responded forcefully. In comments to Sky Germany and SID, he dismissed the narrative outright. “That is complete nonsense and entirely made up,” Mintzlaff said.
He continued: “On the contrary, we are extremely satisfied with the work Jurgen Klopp is doing. He invests a great deal of time and effort, is in constant communication with our coaches and sporting directors, and continues to develop our Red Bull soccer philosophy in a sustainable way. We are convinced that he is the right man for this job. That is where we are putting all our focus and energy.”
The strength of the language was unmistakable. Red Bull insists Klopp remains central to its long-term vision, with his contract running until 2029. According to BILD, there are currently no internal discussions about a separation.
El Salvador U20 face Grenada U20 on Matchday 3 of the 2026 CONCACAF U20 Championship group stage. Fans in the United States can catch every minute of the action, with full kickoff times and broadcast information available for both TV and streaming options.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch El Salvador U20 vs Grenada U20 on US television and via legal streaming:
Momentum will be front and center when El Salvador national football team meets Grenada national football team in a matchup featuring two programs on the rise. El Salvador remains focused on climbing back into the World Cup picture, leaning on a new generation of talent to fuel its long-term ambitions.
Grenada, meanwhile, continues to build on steady progress in recent years and enters the tournament determined to capture its second title, signaling that its upward trajectory is far from finished.
More details on how to watch
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Barcelona reportedly have a plan in place to pay Manchester United’s clause and secure Marcus Rashford on a permanent deal.
For months, Marcus Rashford has been the subject of speculation in Barcelona. The Spanish club has been pleased with his performances, but understands that keeping him long term will require paying Manchester United a significant fee this summer.
“The blaugrana side has virtually decided to keep the Englishman on a permanent basis,”Diario AS reports, citing Mundo Deportivo. “The €30 million purchase option would be paid in three annual installments of €10 million each” (approximately $11.8 million per installment).
This strategy would, of course, depend on Manchester United’s willingness to accept a deferred payment structure over two years for the forward. But that is not the only factor Barcelona must consider when mapping out Rashford’s future.
“The deal also depends on fitting his salary and contract length within La Liga’s financial fair play regulations,” Diario AS adds. Reports indicate that Rashford is willing to lower his current salary — estimated at around $17 million per year — a key development in negotiations.
Hansi Flick, Head Coach of FC Barcelona, looks on prior a game.
Another issue involves La Liga’s player registration restrictions. In recent years, Barcelona’s financial struggles have created complications in this area, and making Rashford’s move permanent could force the club to offload one or more players from the roster to balance the books.
Marcus Rashford has exceeded expectations at Barcelona
When Barcelona moved to sign Marcus Rashford last summer, there were questions about how the forward would adapt to Spain. Not because his talent was in doubt, but because his most recent experiences in the Premier League, with Manchester United and Aston Villa, had fallen short of expectations.
Instead, Rashford has been a welcome surprise. Hansi Flick relies primarily on Lamine Yamal and Raphinha on the wings, while Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres compete at center forward. Even in that crowded attacking picture, the Englishman has found ways to make an impact.
Whether coming off the bench or stepping in for one of the aforementioned stars due to injury, Rashford has posted 10 goals and 13 assists in 34 appearances so far. That production makes him one of the team’s most efficient forwards and a reliable option for the coach — justification for the more than $30 million Barcelona appear ready to invest to secure him permanently.
Marcus Rashford joined Barcelona on loan this season.
A Real Madrid legend wasn't happy when his club was paired with Manchester City in the Champions League.
Friday was set aside for the Champions League draw after the playoff round. The last 16 teams had to be distributed, with each of the top eight teams having two clubs as potential opponents. Real Madrid’s pairing with Manchester Cityprompted comments from club legend Emilio Butragueño.
Real Madrid had Manchester City and Sporting CP as their potential rivals, with a clear idea of which was the tougher opponent. As many neutral fans expected, they were paired with Pep Guardiola’s side. Butragueño represented the club at the event and delivered a pointed remark after the draw concluded.
Butragueño said he was not surprised in a particular way: “It’s curious that we have been playing against them every season. I think it has been five consecutive years with Manchester City. We know each other very well.”
Butragueño shares prediction for Real Madrid vs. Manchester City
Butragueño was not part of any European Cup winning team, as Real Madrid had struggles being the dominant club outside Spain that they are today. However, he was a cornerstone for more than a decade after coming through the club’s youth system.
Butragueño was present at the event (Marco Luzzani/Getty Images).
The former striker understands what it means to represent Real Madrid. He offered a broad view of how the tie against Manchester City might unfold, noting that both teams usually seek to attack.
He predicted a high-scoring series, as in previous encounters: “Every time we play against them they are matches of attacking soccer, of two teams that want to dominate, normally with many goals. One of the best matches you can see around the world.”
Real Madrid’s injuries
Butragueño trusts his club to overcome the English side in this round. The styles promise a great spectacle, but he believes player form and availability could be decisive. He commented on Real Madrid’s absences for the tie.
The Spanish icon said: “We have injured players that are very important for us. We trust they can be ready for the series because we are going to need everybody considering the exigence of the rivals. We live it with hope.”
Mbappé isn't confirmed for the match as he's injured
Parma’s run of consecutive victories was brought to an end this evening by a brave Cagliari side who gave Carlos Cuesta’s side a taste of their own medicine – although, the hosts did manage to salvage a point with seven minutes to play when Gaetano Oristanio scored to equalise after Michael Folorunsho’s opener.
It was a frustrating night for Parma, who had arrived at this fixture on the back of their stunning win against Milan at San Siro and will have harboured genuine ambitions of extending their winning streak. Cagliari, though, had other ideas, and produced a disciplined and determined display that deserved at least a share of the spoils.
The opening half was an evenly contested affair, with both sides creating half-chances without either goalkeeper being truly tested. Mateo Pellegrino was lively throughout for Parma, forcing Elia Caprile into a fine save in the 39th minute with a sharp effort from inside the box, while Cagliari’s Marco Palestra and Sebastiano Esposito both threatened on the counter without making the breakthrough.
Parma 1-1 Cagliari – Second half flurry sees Folorunsho & Oristanio get on the scoresheet
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 27: Emanuele Valeri of Parma Calcio competes for the ball with Zé Pedro of Cagliari Calcio during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 27, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Cuesta rang the changes at half-time, introducing Gaetano Oristanio and Hans Nicolussi Caviglia in an attempt to shift the momentum, but it was Cagliari who struck first.
In the 63rd minute, substitute Michael Folorunsho, who had only entered the field two minutes earlier, produced a moment of genuine quality, receiving the ball outside the box and unleashing a thunderous strike into the top left corner that gave Edoardo Corvi absolutely no chance. It was a goal worthy of winning any game.
Parma pushed for an equaliser and were rewarded in the 83rd minute when Oristanio pounced on a loose ball inside the box to fire low into the bottom left corner, sparking jubilant scenes from the home fans.
Both sides pressed for a winner in the closing stages, with further injuries to Esposito and Emanuele Valeri adding to the disruption, but neither could find the decisive moment.
A point apiece, then, and while Parma will reflect on a missed opportunity, Cagliari will take enormous encouragement from a performance that showed real character away from home.
Enzo Le Fée has opened up on his disappointing spell at Roma, admitting he was unhappy during his time in the Italian capital and that a lack of enjoyment on the pitch was the driving force behind his decision to leave.
The French midfielder joined Roma in the summer of 2024 from Rennes with considerable promise, but struggled to make any meaningful impact at the Stadio Olimpico, managing just ten appearances before departing on loan to Sunderland in January 2025.
ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 24: Nazar Voloshyn of FC Dynamo Kyiv is challenged by Enzo Le Fee of AS Roma during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD3 match between AS Roma and FC Dynamo Kyiv at Stadio Olimpico on October 24, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Speaking to The Analyst, via TuttoMercatoWeb, the Frenchman was candid about why the move to Serie A never worked out.
“At Roma I was a little sad because I wasn’t enjoying playing football,” he said.
“When I’m not enjoying myself on the pitch, I’m really sad. I wanted to rediscover my confidence, that’s why I came to Sunderland, because I knew that Regis Le Bris could give me everything I need to perform at my best.”
The mention of Sunderland head coach Le Bris is telling.
NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 27: Regis Le Bris, Manager of Sunderland, inspects the pitch prior to the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Sunderland at City Ground on September 27, 2025 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Cameron Smith/Getty Images)
The Frenchman has built a reputation for developing technically gifted midfielders and creating an environment in which players can express themselves freely, precisely the kind of setting Le Fée felt he was missing in Rome.
It is a frank and somewhat sobering admission from a player who arrived in Serie A as one of the more exciting French midfield prospects of his generation.
Whether he can rediscover that form consistently in England remains to be seen, but on the evidence of his own words, the move to Wearside has already gone some way to restoring his love of the game.
Niko Kovac has been linked with a move away from Borussia Dortmund, and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in him.
According to a report from BILD, there is strong interest from the English club, and they could look to appoint him as their next manager. Tottenham have brought in Igor Tudor as the interim manager, and he is likely to be replaced in the summer.
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Niko Kovac is in demand
The 54-year-old German manager is being looked at as a long-term option for the North London club. Tottenham have already made contact regarding a potential move. However, Manchester United have also shown interest in the German manager. It will be interesting to see if Spurs can get the deal done.
They need someone who can help them compete at the highest level, and Kovac could be an interesting acquisition. He has shown his quality in Germany, and the opportunity to manage the Premier League could be exciting for him.
Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund have no plans to let him leave, and they are hoping to keep him at the club for now. His contract with the German club expires in 2027, and it will be interesting to see if they are prepared to offer him an extension.
Head coach Niko Kovac of Borussia Dortmund (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)
The 54-year-old manager has proven himself in Germany, and this could be the right time for him to take on a new challenge. The move to the Premier League will be tempting for him. It would be a step up in his career, and he would get to manage an ambitious club with more resources.
Tottenham have a quality team, and they could challenge for trophies with a few intelligent additions in the summer. It remains to be seen whether they can get a deal for Kovac across the line.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are also looking for a long-term alternative to Michael Carrick. It will be interesting to see if they decide to move for the German. Kovac has a 51% win rate in his career, and it remains to be seen whether he can make his mark in English football.
Liverpool do not plan to sell Alisson in the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider. Juventus want to sign the Brazil international goalkeeper, but the defending Premier League champions want to keep him. Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “Yeah, obviously no surprise that someone like Juventus are looking at Alisson. He had a very good […]
Al-Hilal striker Darwin Nunez wants to leave in the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider. Newcastle United have been linked with the 26-year-old Uruguay international striker, but a move to Newcastle United is unlikely to happen. Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “I think it would be a surprise move for me. “Darwin Nunez has been […]
Liverpool are interested in signing Andrea Cambiaso from Juventus in the summer transfer window, according to TuttoJuve. The Juventus-centric Italian news outlet has added that Manchester City are also keen on a deal for the left-back. Both Liverpool and Man City are said to be ready to pay between €30 and €40 million for Cambiaso, […]
Liverpool do not plan to sell Alisson in the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider. Juventus want to sign the Brazil international goalkeeper, but the defending Premier League champions want to keep him. Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “Yeah, obviously no surprise that someone like Juventus are looking at Alisson. He had a very good […]
Celtic could fail to sign Kasper Hogh from Bodo/Glimt in the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider. The Scottish Premiership giants wanted to sign the striker in January and remain keen. Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “I think obviously (his form) might bring bigger clubs with bigger budgets into the race for Kasper Hogh. Again, […]
Liverpool do not plan to sell Alisson in the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider. Juventus want to sign the Brazil international goalkeeper, but the defending Premier League champions want to keep him. Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “Yeah, obviously no surprise that someone like Juventus are looking at Alisson. He had a very good […]
Al-Hilal striker Darwin Nunez wants to leave in the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider. Newcastle United have been linked with the 26-year-old Uruguay international striker, but a move to Newcastle United is unlikely to happen. Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “I think it would be a surprise move for me. “Darwin Nunez has been […]
Liverpool are interested in signing Andrea Cambiaso from Juventus in the summer transfer window, according to TuttoJuve. The Juventus-centric Italian news outlet has added that Manchester City are also keen on a deal for the left-back. Both Liverpool and Man City are said to be ready to pay between €30 and €40 million for Cambiaso, […]
Philippe Coutinho could decide to retire, although a move to Major League Soccer to join LA Galaxy is also among his options.
Few cases in recent years compare to that of Philippe Coutinho. The Brazilian midfielder was a superstar at Liverpool when Barcelona paid a massive fee to sign him in 2018. From that point on, however, things gradually went downhill, to the extent that he lost his place with the Brazil national team. In that context, Major League Soccer has emerged as a possible destination amid rumors linking him to LA Galaxy.
However, there is another option under consideration. “The midfielder’s future prospects are either to go to an MLS team in the United States, or even announce his retirement,”ESPN recently reported.
At just 33 years old, the end of Coutinho’s career might seem surprising, but his recent decisions and comments offer insight into his current mindset. “The truth is that I’m very mentally exhausted. I’ve always been very reserved, so saying this here isn’t easy, but I need to be honest,” the midfielder wrote on social media earlier this year after deciding to leave Vasco da Gama.
Philippe Coutinho playing for Barcelona.
“With a heavy heart, I understand that now is the time to take a step back and end this cycle at Vasco,” he added in the same post. “My relationship with Vasco is one of love. And it will continue to be forever.”
Coutinho has another offer, though less appealing
Coutinho’s sudden departure from Vasco da Gama drew interest from several clubs intrigued by the talent of the 33-year-old. LA Galaxy appear to be an attractive option as they look to rebound from a disappointing 2025 MLS season, but there are other alternatives.
“Coutinho has received an inquiry from Russian club CSKA Moscow,” ESPN reported. However, the chances of that move materializing appear slim. “A source close to the player, however, told ESPN Brasil they would be surprised if Coutinho accepted an offer from Russian football,” the report added.
The decline of Coutinho’s career
The nearly $180 million Barcelona paid Liverpool for Coutinho in 2018 now feels like a distant memory. Over the years, the midfielder’s performances steadily declined, and his career has been marked by frequent club changes.
In 2019, Coutinho was loaned to Bayern Munich before returning to Barcelona a year later. Aston Villa became his next destination, where he spent just over a year and a half with limited success. He then moved to Al Duhail in Qatar before completing a long-anticipated return to Vasco da Gama in 2024.
Despite the excitement surrounding that move, things did not go as planned. In January of this year, the midfielder negotiated an early termination of his contract to become a free agent and determine the next step in his professional career.
Philippe Coutinho left Vasco da Gama in January 2026.
Christian Pulisic will soon discover whether one of his most influential teammates remains by his side beyond the 2026 World Cup, as Milan has reportedly made a defining call on Luka Modric’s future.
Christian Pulisic will soon discover whether one of his most influential teammates remains by his side beyond the 2026 World Cup, as Milan has reportedly made a defining call on Luka Modric’s future. The Rossoneri campaign has been shaped by experience and leadership, and few figures embody that more than Modric. As speculation swirls, both Christian Pulisic and Luka Modric find themselves at the heart of a pivotal moment for the club, with the veteran midfielder’s next step poised to shape the Rossoneri’s trajectory.
At 40, Luka Modric has already surpassed 2,000 minutes in Serie A this season, becoming the only outfield player in the squad to reach that milestone. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Croatian maestro crossed the 2,000-minute mark on February 18 against Como, underlining just how central he remains to the club’s structure.
The numbers tell a compelling story. Modric has played 23 of 25 league matches, started 92 percent of them, and delivered decisive contributions in key moments. He has registered two match-winning goals and three assists, while maintaining over 90 percent passing accuracy. In one recent outing, he completed 93 passes and was named MVP, reinforcing his status as the metronome of the side.
Head coach Massimiliano Allegri has been vocal in his admiration. He described training alongside the Croatian veteran as “an enormous fortune for all players,” praising not only his technical brilliance but also his relentless professionalism. Within the dressing room, teammates affectionately call him “the Maestro.”
Three roads ahead
Despite his remarkable output, Modric’s future remains under review. The veteran joined Milan on a one-year contract after leaving Real Madrid, with an option for a further year that can only be activated with his consent.
There are three possible paths before him:
Extend his stay at Milan, continuing to guide the midfield in a slightly reduced but still vital role.
Return to Dinamo Zagreb, the club where his professional journey began, in what many describe as a romantic homecoming.
Retire after the 2026 World Cup, stepping away while still performing at an elite level.
Modric will also captain Croatia at the 2026 World Cup, marking his sixth appearance at the tournament; an extraordinary achievement that already includes a 2018 final and a 2022 bronze medal.
Luka Modric of Croatia
The decision revealed
While the introduction to this saga has been filled with uncertainty, the internal mood at Milan is increasingly optimistic. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, everyone at the club is pushing for Modric’s renewal, and a one-year extension is becoming more likely.
The Rossoneri’s hierarchy, Allegri, the technical staff, and even senior advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic have reportedly urged the midfielder to clarify his intentions soon. Ibrahimovic, as reported, held direct talks and requested a timely decision to allow proper planning for next season.
Manu Kone of AS Roma is challenged by Luka Modric of AC Milan.
Importantly, the extension clause already exists, but Milan has made it clear that it will only be activated if Modric personally wishes to continue. The respect shown toward him reflects his stature not just as a player, but as a symbol.
On the pitch, Milan is fighting for Champions League qualification — a competition Modric knows intimately, having won it six times during his glittering career in Spain. Securing a return to Europe’s top table could serve as a powerful incentive in his final deliberations.
Christian Pulisic and Luka Modric of AC Milan celebrates
Kylian Mbappé may miss more matches for Real Madrid with a knee injury, according to Álvaro Arbeloa.
The playoff with Benfica, which finished with a pair of victories, took Real Madrid to the round of 16 in the Champions League. They were able to defeat the Portuguese club even though they couldn’t have Kylian Mbappé in Álvaro Arbeloa’s lineup.
Real Madrid have not shown their best level this season but have remained competitive. However, Mbappé’s numbers make him the team’s standout player. With 38 goals in 33 matches, he is clearly their most dangerous attacking threat.
That is why his injury status raises concern after he missed Wednesday’s match with a knee issue. Arbeloa admitted he could be sidelined for some time: “I spoke with him, and we consulted with the medical team. We believed it was best for him to stop and recover 100%, so he can return in top form and confidence without discomfort for what’s ahead.”
Arbeloa also provided a cautious update on Mbappé’s return: “When discomfort prevents you from playing, if we want to call it an injury we can call it an injury, but it seems to be, and I hope it is, not a serious injury, a minor issue, and he can return in a few days or weeks. We have a diagnosis, but I’m not the one to disclose such data about the players’ health.”
Arbeloa left some doubts about Mbappé’s return to the lineup (Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Real Madrid with many players in doubt
Mbappé was clearly the most important absence from Friday’s training session. Another notable name was Jude Bellingham, who is still recovering from a muscle injury that should keep him out for a few more weeks.
Raúl Asensio was also not with the group after a collision during the second leg against Benfica that led the manager to substitute him immediately as a precaution.
Three more players were not part of regular training. Dani Ceballos, Dean Huijsen and Militao trained indoors with limited activity as they continue working their way back from injuries.
Real Madrid’s main challenge
Up next, Real Madrid face Getafe on Monday as they continue chasing Barcelona in La Liga. Sitting one point behind leaves little margin for rotation. The main concern now is in defense, where only Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba are fully available.
With Celta coming after Getafe, the manager may adjust his approach in Vigo, especially with a demanding Champions League tie against Manchester City scheduled for March 11 in the first leg.
Mbappé may miss more matches for Real Madrid according to Álvaro Arbeloa
Alessandro Renica has sparked debate by laying the blame for Napoli’s lengthy injury list squarely at the door of Antonio Conte, arguing that the head coach’s demanding training methods have taken a significant physical toll on the squad.
The former Napoli defender, who spent six years at the club between 1985 and 1991 winning two Serie A titles, a Coppa Italia and the UEFA Cup, made his comments on Stile TV, and they are unlikely to go down well in certain quarters.
NAPLES, ITALY – OCTOBER 25: Frank Zambo Anguissa of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his side third goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and FC Internazionale at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on October 25, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Napoli have been badly hampered by injuries this season, with Kevin De Bruyne, Zambo Anguissa, Billy Gilmour and Amir Rrahmani among the high-profile absentees at various points.
Renica: ‘Conte’s methods to blame for Napoli injuries’
Renica believes the volume and nature of Conte’s training sessions at Castel Volturno is a root cause.
“I have never attended his sessions, but you only need to listen to what the players say. De Bruyne, for example, said that in ten years at Manchester City he never ran as much as he did in three months at Napoli. Excessive dry work tends to stress the muscles, and that is when injuries occur. I have my coaching badge and have tried both methodologies, but when I worked with heavy dry training I had a lot of muscular problems.”
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 17: Amir Rrahmani of SSC Napoli injured during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 17, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
“He is on his third muscular injury and has become practically irreplaceable in this defence. Having him available only intermittently really hurts.”
Renica was careful to acknowledge Conte’s broader qualities, describing him as tactically impeccable and a proven winner. But he added a pointed caveat.
“From a physical standpoint, it is a shame he does not seek to improve. Not progressing past the Champions League group stage this season against those opponents was significant, I think it is a genuine limitation.”
On Napoli’s squad quality, Renica was effusive, rating it alongside Inter as the strongest in Serie A.
“But when eight players of that calibre are missing,” he concluded, “it becomes extremely complicated, and this season, between the Champions League exit and the distance from the top of the table, more could have been done.”
Sunday evening’s clash between Roma and Juventus at the Stadio Olimpico carries enormous weight in the race for Champions League football, and both sides have received welcome fitness news ahead of what promises to be a compelling encounter.
Juventus will be boosted by the return of Gleison Bremer, who is expected to start at the heart of defence alongside Lloyd Kelly.
The Brazilian centre-back’s presence will be a significant lift for Luciano Spalletti, whose side head to Rome looking to close the gap on the top four after a difficult run of results.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Bremer of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Francisco Conceicao during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
With Manuel Locatelli suspended, Teun Koopmeiners is the likeliest candidate to fill the midfield void, while Jonathan David is expected to lead the attack once again, supported by Francisco Conceição, Weston McKennie and Kenan Yildiz behind him.
The Argentine forward has trained fully with the group and is available to face his former club, a fixture that always carries personal significance for ‘La Joya’.
However, a start from the first minute looks unlikely given the time he has spent on the sidelines, with Gian Piero Gasperini expected to use him from the bench. Donyell Malen is set to lead the Roma attack, with Manu Koné and Bryan Cristante providing the midfield backbone.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma in action during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on January 18, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
There is less positive news elsewhere in the Roma camp, with both Matias Soulé and Mario Hermoso ruled out of the match, leaving Gasperini with limited options as he prepares his side for a fixture that could prove pivotal in determining who secures Champions League football next season.
Simone Inzaghi arrived in Saudi Arabia as one of the hottest coaching properties in world football, fresh two Champions League finals in three years with Inter Milan and a contract worth a reported €26 million per season, making him the second highest-paid manager on the planet behind only Diego Simeone.
What began as a dream appointment for Al-Hilal has unravelled at an alarming pace. The Riyadh club had stormed to the top of the Saudi Pro League with a seven-point cushion over their rivals, the kind of dominant early-season form that suggested Inzaghi had taken to his new surroundings seamlessly.
Then January arrived, and with it, the signing of Karim Benzema, a move Inzaghi himself had pushed for.
Karim Benzema of Al Ittihad
The results since have been deeply concerning.
Five draws from their last seven matches have seen Al-Hilal slip to third in the table, now four points behind leaders Al-Ahli, who count Franck Kessié and Merih Demiral among their ranks, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr also above them.
Al-Hilal dissatisfied with Inzaghi performance
According to Arabic media, the club’s ownership is far from satisfied, and supporters have begun openly calling for Inzaghi’s dismissal. Sacking a manager on his salary would represent an enormous financial commitment, but the reports suggest it is far from an impossible outcome.
There is a painfully familiar precedent for Inzaghi here. In his first season at Inter, his side held a seven-point lead in Serie A only to be overhauled in the final weeks by Stefano Pioli’s Milan, a collapse that still stings. Now he finds himself needing to reverse a similar deficit, this time against Ronaldo and Jorge Jesus’ Al-Nassr.
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – JUNE 25: Simone Inzaghi Manager of Al Hilal controls a football during the Training ahead of their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 match between Al Hilal and CF Pachuca at Nashville SC Training Facility on June 25, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
The next two fixtures will be decisive.
Al-Hilal face Al-Shabab, currently twelfth in the table, before turning their attention to the Asian Champions League last 16 against Al-Saad, managed by Inzaghi’s former Italy teammate Roberto Mancini.
Win both and the pressure eases. Anything less and the questions surrounding his future will grow considerably louder.
Former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas is open to taking the Tottenham Hotspur job.
Cesc Fabregas has been doing wonders for Como in the Italian top flight, and his work hasn’t gone unnoticed. The former Spanish midfielder finds himself on the wishlist of some of the biggest clubs in England, and Tottenham are one of them. According to a report from TEAMtalk, the former Arsenal and Chelsea star is open to taking the Tottenham job.
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Cesc Fabregas has seen a rapid rise as a manager
Fabregas has emerged as one of the most exciting young managers in world football, thanks to the work he has done at Como since taking charge as their permanent manager back in 2024. He has led them in 69 matches, and he averages 1.54 points per game.
The Italian club is playing an attacking, attractive brand of football under the 38-year-old’s guidance. Como are currently sixth in the Serie A and are serious contenders for a Champions League spot. Their performances have enhanced Fabregas’ reputation as a manager, and English clubs now want him on their bench.
Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
While Igor Tudor has taken charge at Tottenham on an interim basis, the North London club are looking for their next permanent manager, and Fabregas is quite high on their wishlist. Despite his strong bond with Chelsea and Arsenal from his playing days, the 38-year-old is open to a move to Spurs.
The London connection won’t be a barrier if Tottenham do actually approach the Spanish manager. Apart from Spurs, there are other top clubs that would love to have him on their bench. As a result, it will be interesting to see where he ends up if he decides to move on from Como. For now, he seems focused on getting the Italian club into the Champions League.
Hoping to find a route back into the Champions League spots on Saturday afternoon, Liverpool will welcome West Ham to Anfield this weekend. While Arne Slot’s camp might have already accepted that they will relinquish their Premier League crown this season, the English heavyweights have certainly turned a recent corner over the past six weeks […]
The American is still considered essential, and Allegri is counting on one particular quality the winger offers.
Christian Pulisic remains one of the most discussed figures at Milan, even as 2026 has brought an unexpected dip in form. The American winger continues to command the trust of Massimiliano Allegri, and within the corridors of Milanello, there is still a firm belief that he represents both the present and the future of the club. The American is still considered essential, and Allegri is counting on one particular quality the winger offers.
For much of his time in Italy, Pulisic has been portrayed as a Renaissance story. After an uneven spell in England, he rediscovered confidence, consistency, and influence in Serie A. His first campaign at San Siro felt like a rebirth. However, recent weeks have introduced doubt.
Since the summer, the American star has battled ankle pain, a hamstring injury, and bursitis. Though he has scored eight league goals, rhythm and synergy with his attacking partner, Rafal Leao, have not fully materialized.
The 27-year-old winger carried much of the attacking burden in the first half of the campaign. However, he has not scored in 2026, and missed opportunities, notably against Parma and Fiorentina, have amplified scrutiny.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan reacts on the sidelines
Allegri relies on key Pulisic quality
Despite the dip in form, Pulisic remains a vital asset, particularly beyond San Siro. As reported by Opta in its preview of Sunday’s match between Cremonese and Milan, Christian Pulisic is second in Serie A for away goals this season, with six, level with Bologna’s Santiago Castro. The Rossoneri’s forward has never scored more away from home in a single Italian campaign. He also reached six in 2024-25.
Across Europe’s top five leagues, he has surpassed that tally only once: during the 2019-20 season with Chelsea, when he netted seven away goals, as relayed by Milannews.it. Even more striking is the correlation between his goals and results. Whenever Pulisic scores away from home this season, his side wins. The pattern is emphatic:
Lecce 0-2 Milan
Udinese 0-3 Milan, with Pulisic scoring twice.
Inter 0-1 Milan
Torino 2-3 Milan, another brace from the American
These are not marginal fixtures. They include derbies and pressure-laden encounters. In hostile environments, Pulisic has repeatedly delivered. For Allegri, this is not a trivial statistic — it is a strategic weapon. Away form often defines title challenges and European qualification battles. The American’s ability to strike decisively on the road provides Milan with a competitive edge few in the squad replicate.
Christian Pulisic (left) and Massimiliano Allegri (right)
A teammate of Lionel Messi with Argentina suffered a severe injury and has been ruled out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just over three months away, players are now at a point where even a moderate injury can leave them out of the tournament. That is exactly what happened to an Argentina teammate of Lionel Messi after a serious knee problem.
“Valentin Carboni suffered a tear of the ligaments in his right knee, which will require a recovery period of at least eight months,” La Nacion reported Friday regarding the young winger who plays for Racing Club on loan from Inter Milan.
“In Friday’s training session, Carboni went down after a teammate fell on him and alarmed everyone present,” the report adds. “After the medical staff performed tests on the pitch, he was moved to a nearby center for imaging that confirmed the worst: he had torn the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.”
This is the second similar injury Carboni has suffered in about a year and a half. The previous one occurred in October 2024, during a training session with the Argentina national team ahead of World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia.
Valentin Carboni playing for Inter Milan.
At that time, the winger was on loan at Olympique de Marseille from Inter Milan, where his performances had made him a regular option for Lionel Scaloni at the international level. However, that injury kept him out for about eight months, and he only returned to action with Inter in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
Carboni is ruled out for the World Cup
With no place at Inter and a less successful loan spell at Genoa in the first half of the 2025–26 season, Valentin Carboni chose Racing Club to play this year in hopes of regaining his 2024 form and getting back into Lionel Scaloni’s consideration.
He had already been part of the squad at the 2024 Copa America, where he played one match on Argentina’s way to the title. However, things have been very different this time: the winger lost his place in the Racing starting lineup after several disappointing performances and now suffered this serious injury that definitively rules him out of both the Finalissima and the World Cup.
Second confirmed Argentina absence for the World Cup
While neither Carboni nor Foyth was guaranteed a spot in Lionel Scaloni’s 26‑man World Cup roster, both had been included in recent call-ups and were considered viable options for the squad, having also been part of teams that won major tournaments.
A key Spain and Paris Saint-Germain player could miss the Finalissima against Argentina due to physical issues.
Exactly one month remains until the Finalissima. Argentina and Spain will face each other on March 27 at Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar, aiming to claim a new trophy and gain a crucial boost ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In that context, a Paris Saint-Germain player could be sidelined due to physical problems.
“Following his latest medical check-up, Fabian Ruiz will follow a tailor-made work schedule over the next few weeks in order to relieve his knee pain,” PSG reported Friday in a statement on their official website.
The Spanish midfielder has been out of action for more than a month due to a knee injury that has taken longer than expected to heal. His last official match was on January 20, in the 2-1 loss to Sporting CP during the UEFA Champions League league phase.
Since then, Ruiz has missed eight matches across the European competition and Ligue 1, and that number is expected to grow in the near future. According to PSG’s statement, at least a couple more weeks will be needed before the 29-year-old Spanish player can return.
This would rule him out of Ligue 1 matches against Le Havre and AS Monaco, as well as the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 against Chelsea, scheduled for Tuesday, March 10.
The Finalissima in doubt for Ruiz
Even in the most optimistic scenario, Fabian Ruiz will need a couple of weeks to fully overcome the knee pain and return to regular training. After that, he will likely need additional time to regain match fitness.
These timelines put the midfielder in serious doubt for the Finalissima. With exactly four weeks remaining until March 27, it will be a tight window for Ruiz to recover, play a few matches with PSG, and convince Luis De La Fuente that he is ready for a demanding clash against Argentina.
Spain facing multiple challenges ahead of the Finalissima
Ruiz’s potential absence is not Spain’s only concern ahead of the Finalissima. In recent weeks, several national team players have suffered injuries that not only sidelined them at the club level but also put their availability against Argentina in question.
Parma welcome Cagliari to the Stadio Ennio Tardini tonight, as Carlos Cuesta’s side look to make it four consecutive victories against a fellow mid-table team.
The Gialloblu have picked up back-to-back-to-back wins against Bologna, then Verona, then Milan at San Siro.
Carlos Cuesta has significantly improved the club’s fortune and his pragmatic approach to tactics and team selection see them sit in 12th place, on 32 points. This gives them an eight point gap on the relegation zone and safety should be on the cards this campaign.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Carlos Cuesta issues instructions to his player Sascha Britschgi during the Serie A match at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Cagliari, meanwhile, sit a place below Parma in 13th. The Sardinians are three points behind tonight’s opposition and they can go level on points, therefore, with a victory.
Lorenzo Lucca’s difficult season shows no sign of turning around at Nottingham Forest, raising serious questions about whether the English club will take up their option to sign him permanently this summer, and leaving Napoli facing a potentially costly headache.
The Italian striker joined Forest on loan in January, with the Premier League side holding an option to purchase him outright for €35 million.
Lucca has managed just 120 minutes of Premier League football since arriving in England, starting only once, against Wolverhampton, and has done little to impress in two Europa League appearances against Fenerbahce, being substituted at half-time in the second leg to widespread criticism from supporters online.
LEEDS, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 06: Lorenzo Lucca of Nottingham Forest scores his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Nottingham Forest at Elland Road on February 06, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Napoli could pocket €35m from Lucca sale but Forest buyout unlikely
It represents a continuation of the miserable form that defined his six months under Antonio Conte at Napoli, where the chemistry between player and manager never materialised. Despite costing the club close to €40 million following his impressive 12-goal campaign at Udinese, Lucca started just four Serie A matches for Napoli and is perhaps best remembered for his red card during the 2-6 humiliation in Eindhoven.
Conte raised no objection to his January departure, and Forest’s managerial instability, four different managers already this season, has done Lucca no favours either.
Official: Lorenzo Lucca joins Nottingham Forest on loan with an option to buy from Napoli (picture: www.nottinghamforest.co.uk)
Should Forest decline to trigger the purchase option, Napoli will find themselves with a striker who still has a contract until 2030 but whose market value has fallen considerably.
Recouping anything close to their original investment looks increasingly improbable, leaving the club with a significant financial problem to solve in the summer window.
A simmering dispute between Atalanta and Borussia Dortmund has spilled into the open, with the Italian club having filed a formal complaint to FIFA over the departure of teenage forward Samuele Inacio.
The 17-year-old, son of former Atalanta and Napoli striker Pià, left Bergamo for Dortmund in 2024 without any transfer fee or compensation changing hands, with reports via CalcioMercato.
Under FIFA’s regulations governing the movement of minor players, clubs are not entitled to a fee when a player under the age of 18 moves abroad, and Dortmund used that framework to acquire the youngster without entering into any financial agreement with Atalanta.
Atalanta upset with Dortmund over nature of Inacio deal
It is a move that has left a bitter taste in Bergamo. Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi has made his feelings abundantly clear, pointedly snubbing the UEFA lunch at both the home and away legs of the clubs’ recent European encounter in what amounted to a public statement of displeasure. His words on the matter were measured but damning.
“For me it is a very serious matter that Dortmund never made themselves available to sit down with us to clarify and resolve this issue, which we have consequently taken to FIFA,” Percassi said.
“From a legal standpoint, we are convinced we are in the right. From a moral standpoint, I will let everyone judge for themselves.”
Luca Percassi Vice Chairman of Atalanta (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)
Atalanta’s grievance centres not on the legality of the move, which technically complied with FIFA’s minor player regulations, but on what they see as a failure of professional courtesy and good faith from the German club.
The fact that Dortmund never sought to negotiate any form of agreement, however informal, is what appears to have caused the most damage to the relationship between the two clubs.
Inacio himself is considered one of the more exciting young Italian talents of his generation, making the manner of his departure all the more frustrating for Atalanta, who had invested significantly in his development.
With the FIFA complaint now formally lodged, the dispute looks set to run considerably longer before any resolution is reached.
Reports in Italy claim that two sides in Serie A are interested in a potential deal for Manchester United and former Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro once his Old Trafford tenure comes to an end.
Reports Casemiro of interest to two top Serie A clubs
Casemiro, who turned 34 earlier this week, is into the final few months of his contract with Manchester United and the club have already confirmed that the five-time Champions League winner will depart at the end of the 2025-26 campaign.
The 82-time Brazil international is expected to have plenty of offers come the end of the season, and according to Friday’s reports, he could have offers from Serie A on his desk as well.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 23: Casemiro of Manchester United gestures during the warm up prior to the Premier League match between Everton and Manchester United at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on February 23, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
According to reports from Calciomercato.com, both Milan and Juventus could be poised to make an offer for Casemiro in the summer.
Friday’s report claims that Milan will be interested with or without Luka Modric, who has an option to extend his one-year contract in San Siro by a further 12 months. Modric and Casemiro lined up together 259 times for Real Madrid.
It has also been suggested that Juventus could be interested in a move for the veteran midfielder this summer. Calciomercato claims that Juventus will focus on quality rather than quantity in the summer transfer window, but Casemiro is a player with undoubted and invaluable experience at the top of the European game.
The issue for the Serie A sides in question is Casemiro’s potential salary demands given that he currently earns a reported net salary of €18m per season in the final year of his Manchester United contract.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 07: Casemiro of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford on February 07, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
He would need to take a pay cut in order to facilitate a move to either Milan or Juventus, with suggestions that both clubs would be more likely to offer a two-year deal with wages in the region of €5m-€6m per year.
Aside from the Serie A interest, Casemiro is also expected to have offers from Brazil and from the Saudi Pro League.
Liverpool and Manchester United could sign Adam Wharton for £60-65 million because of a ‘gentlemen’s agreement’ with Crystal Palace.
Adam Wharton is expected to be on the move this summer, amidst interest from some of the biggest clubs in the country. Liverpool are set to rival Manchester United in the race for his signature. According to a report from TEAMtalk, the English international could be available for a bargain fee thanks to a ‘gentlemen’s agreement’ with Crystal Palace.
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Adam Wharton could leave Crystal Palace this summer
Wharton has established himself as one of the best young midfielders in the Premier League with his consistent performances for the Eagles. The 22-year-old defensive midfielder has placed himself on the radar of some of the biggest clubs in the country.
While his contract at Selhurst Park runs until the summer of 2029, he could be on the move this summer. The interest in his services remains intact despite a dip in form this season. The Eagles are concerned about his form, as they believe interest from other top clubs could have altered his focus.
Crystal Palace are hoping to keep hold of him beyond this season, and they are also working on a potential renewal. However, there is a gentleman’s agreement which could allow him to join a Champions League club for £60-65 million if a new deal isn’t agreed.
Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace reacts after the defeat to Sunderland (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Liverpool and Manchester United are the biggest contenders for his signature. Wharton is quite high on the Merseyside club’s wishlist, as they look to bring in someone who can compete with Ryan Gravenberch for a place in the XI.
Meanwhile, the Red Devils are looking at him as someone who can replace Casemiro in the long-run. With the Brazilian leaving the club at the end of the season, Manchester United could go all out for Wharton this summer.
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have suffered a massive blow in their pursuit of Inter Milan attacking sensation Pio Esposito.
Since returning from his loan spell at Spezia Calcio, Pio Esposito has managed to break into the Inter Milan first team. He has established himself as an important part of their plans, and his impressive rise has resulted in interest from Arsenal. But according to a report from LInterista, Inter Milan have no intentions of negotiating his departure, not even for €100 million.
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Pio Esposito has seen a sensational rise
Esposito has come up the ranks at Inter Milan. While he got promoted to their first team back in 2023, the 20-year-old ended up joining Spezia Calcio on a two-year loan deal. Thanks to his impressive performances for the Serie B outfit, he has had an important role at Inter Milan this time around.
He has been involved in 35 matches in the ongoing campaign, racked up over 1,500 minutes, and contributed to 13 goals (7 goals, 6 assists). His impressive performances have helped him break into the Italian national team, and this has also attracted interest from clubs across Europe.
Arsenal are one of the clubs that are keen on his signature. The Gunners are constantly on the lookout for young players with massive potential, and Esposito seems to be an ideal fit for their project. The Gunners are pushing to bring him to the Emirates, but they are unlikely to succeed.
Francesco Pio Esposito of Italy U21. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The 20-year-old’s contract at Inter Milan runs until 2030, which means they will be in the driving seat during negotiations and they do not have any intentions of selling him. The Italian outfit won’t even consider a €100 million offer for the youngster.
They consider him an integral part of their long-term plans and want to build a team around him. Inter Milan seem to have a lot of confidence in the youngster and his performances this season certainly back it up. As far as Arsenal are concerned, they will have to look at alternatives, as Esposito is not for sale.
David Lynch insists Liverpool are keen on signing Bayern Munich star forward Michael Olise, as they look to prepare for life without Mohamed Salah.
Michael Olise has taken his game to the next level since moving to the Bundesliga. Clubs in England have been constantly keeping tabs on him, and quite a few would love to bring him back to the Premier League. According to David Lynch via TEAMtalk, Liverpool are keen on signing the former Crystal Palace star.
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While speaking about Olise’s future on Anfield Index, Lynch said, “I see Olise getting mentioned in the comments as well, and I think I’d keep an eye on that.
“That’s an interesting one. Particularly Bayern being interested in Gakpo, you know, potentially maybe something in that, but he will want to come back to the Premier League at some point, and he’s a very, very good player who Liverpool have watched for a long, long time, even pre-Palace.
“So, that’ll be an interesting one if he’s on the market.”
Olise made quite a name for himself while playing for Crystal Palace. Quite a few top clubs in England were after his signature in the summer of 2024, but Bayern Munich managed to win the race with a €60 million (then £50m) offer.
Liverpool want Michael Olise to replace Salah
The French international has taken his game to the next level since joining the German giants. In the ongoing campaign, the 24-year-old has 13 goals and 25 assists in 35 outings. Liverpool are one of the clubs that have been keeping tabs on him, and would love to bring him back.
The Reds have had him on their radar for years now, and with Mohamed Salah’s long-term future uncertain, they are looking at Olise as an ideal long-term replacement. While they would love to have him on their roster, prising him away from Bayern Munich won’t be easy.
Michael Olise in action for Bayern Munich (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
The German club has no intentions of negotiating his departure, and with his contract running until 2029, they are in complete control of his future. A potential transfer could cost in excess of €114 million (£100m).
Despite the difficulty in securing his services, Lynch believes the 24-year-old firmly remains on FSG’s radar. More importantly, he feels the player would want to return to the Premier League at some point in his career. As things stand, however, a move this summer looks very unlikely.
According to Teamtalk, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea haven’t given up on signing Dusan Vlahovic as a free agent at the end of the season. However, the Serbian striker, previously linked with Arsenal, AC Milan and Liverpool too, prefers Barcelona as his potential destination at this point. Juventus have scheduled a fresh round of negotiations with […]
The Portuguese superstar, still active at the highest level, has expanded his influence beyond the pitch and is now linked with a romantic return to Spanish soccer.
Cristiano Ronaldo has once again placed himself at the center of the soccer conversation. The Portuguese superstar, still active at the highest level, has expanded his influence beyond the pitch and is now linked with a romantic return to Spanish soccer. For a player who continues to defy age at 41, Ronaldo’s latest move signals ambition that stretches far beyond goals and trophies. The forward, currently representing Al-Nassr, has taken a decisive step into club ownership, and Spanish soccer is watching closely.
In a significant development, Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired a 25% stake in Almeria, the Spanish Segunda Division club. The investment was made through CR7 Sports Investments, part of his broader business portfolio. In an official statement, the club confirmed: “Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired 25% of the shares of UD Almeria through CR7 Sports Investments, a subsidiary of CR7 SA, this being an important step in the continued expansion of both the club and the investment portfolio of the Portuguese businessman.”
The Portugal international himself described the move as “a long-held ambition of mine to contribute to soccer, beyond the pitch,” adding that “UD Almeria is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth.”
The club, now owned by Saudi businessman Mohamed Al-Khereiji following a takeover from Turki Al-Sheikh, currently sits third in the Segunda Division, just two points behind leader Racing Santander and firmly in the promotion race. The dream of a return to La Liga remains alive.
Official statement:
Cristiano Ronaldo invests in UD Almería as part of the club ownership consortium led by SMC Group pic.twitter.com/0lk92FUjPH
Almeria coach’s invitation: ‘It would be extraordinary’
While the investment alone sparked excitement, it was the words of head coach Rubi that ignited speculation. Speaking openly about Ronaldo’s involvement, Rubi said: “We are very happy. Obviously, we welcome him. I think it’s excellent news because someone like him, with his one hundred percent knowledge of sport and soccer, can help a club like ours.”
But it was his follow-up remark that truly fueled headlines: “It would be extraordinary and wonderful if he could play here, but that’s a question for him. This is his club and, if he wanted to continue playing, whoever the coach is, he would be received with open arms. I have no doubt about that.” The message was clear — the door, from a sporting perspective, is wide open.
Is it possible for Ronaldo to co-own Almeria and still play for the team?
While the romantic image of Ronaldo returning to Spanish soccer sparks imagination, the regulatory reality is more complicated. Under Spanish law, specifically regulations overseen by the National Sports Council and the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), an active player cannot hold ownership interests in a Spanish club while competing domestically.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr
The measure, introduced in February 2025 and often referred to as the “Anti-Pique Law,” was designed to protect competitive integrity and avoid conflicts of interest. In simple terms, as long as Ronaldo retains his 25 percent ownership stake, he would be barred from registering as a player in Spain. The rule emerged following controversy involving Gerard Pique and commercial negotiations during his playing career.
Spanish authorities tightened governance standards to ensure transparency and fairness in competition. Therefore, unless Ronaldo were to divest or place his shares in a legally approved structure that removes direct influence, a playing comeback in Spain would not be permitted. For now, such a scenario appears unlikely. Ronaldo remains under contract with Al-Nassr until 2027.
The Champions League, Europa League and Conference League knock-out draws are complete, and now, the times and dates for each of the upcoming round of 16 ties have been confirmed as well. Here are the key dates for Atalanta, Roma, Bologna and Fiorentina fans to mark down in their diaries.
The Champions League, Europa League and Conference League draws took place at the UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland on Friday, following the completion of the play-off rounds earlier this week.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 11: The UEFA Champions League trophy is cleaned as it is displayed on a plinth at the side of the pitch prior to the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and Feyenoord at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on March 11, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Atalanta are the only Italian team left standing in the Champions League after Napoli’s league phase elimination and the exits of both Inter and Juventus in the play-offs earlier this week. La Dea will go up against Borussia Dortmund over two legs of the round of 16.
Two Italian teams remain in the Europa League in Roma and Bologna, but they have been drawn against each other in the round of 16, meaning there is a guarantee of an Italian side in the quarter-finals, but only one.
Fiorentina, meanwhile, have a tough task ahead of them in the Conference League round of 16, where they will go up against Raków Częstochowa, who finished the league phase in second place, in the round of 16.
Key Atalanta dates
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Sead Kolasinac of Atalanta celebrates victory following the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Atalanta BC and Borussia Dortmund at Stadio di Bergamo on February 25, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Round of 16 first leg: Tuesday March 10, 2026 @ 20.00 GMT (at home against Bayern Munich)
Round of 16 second leg: Wednesday March 18 @ 20.00 GMT (away against Bayern Munich)
Quarter-final first legs: Tuesday April 7 and Wednesday April 8
Quarter-final second legs: Tuesday April 14 and Wednesday April 15
Semi-final first legs: Tuesday April 28 and Wednesday April 29
Semi-final second legs: Tuesday May 5 and Wednesday May 6
Final: Saturday May 30.
Key Roma and Bologna dates
ROMA, ITALY – AUGUST 23: Players, match officials and mascots line up prior to the Serie A match between AS Roma and Bologna FC 1909 at Stadio Olimpico in Roma on August 23, 2025 in Roma, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Round of 16 first leg: Thursday March 12 @ 17.45 GMT (at the Dall’Ara)
Round of 16 second leg: Thursday March 19 @ 20.00 GMT (at the Stadio Olimpico)
Quarter-final first legs: Thursday April 9
Quarter-final second legs: Thursday April 16
Semi-final first legs: Thursday April 30
Semi-final second legs: Thursday May 7
Final: Wednesday May 20.
Key Fiorentina dates
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 26: Nicolo’ Fagioli of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between ACF Fiorentina and Jagiellonia Bialystok at Stadio Artemio Franchi on February 26, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Round of 16 first leg: Thursday March 12 @ 20.00 GMT (at home at the Stadio Franchi)
Round of 16 second leg: Thursday March 19 @ 17.45 GMT (away at the Miejski Stadion Piłkarski Raków)
Bayern Munich were the second strongest team in the competition during the league phase. Their tally of seven wins and one defeat was only bettered by Arsenal, who recorded a 100% win record across eight matches in the first portion of the 2025-26 competition.
The aforementioned Arsenal are the only side to have beat Bayern so far in the Champions League this season. Vincent Kompany’s side have picked up victories against Chelsea, Pafos, Club Brugge, PSG, Sporting CP, Union Saint-Gilloise and PSV Eindhoven so far this season.
MUNICH, GERMANY – JANUARY 21: Harry Kane of Bayern Munich celebrates during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD7 match between FC Bayern München and R. Union Saint-Gilloise at Football Arena Munich on January 21, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Adam Pretty/Getty Images)
Bayern also scored the second-most goals of any team across the league phase with 22 (level with Barcelona). Again, only Arsenal went better than the Bavarians with 23 goals from eight league phase matches.
Key players
England national team captain Harry Kane is the brightest star in this current Bayern side. The former Tottenham man already has a staggering 43 goals and five assists from 36 matches across all competitions including eight goals in eight games in the Champions League.
MUNICH, GERMANY – JANUARY 21: Harry Kane of Bayern Munich celebrates after scoring during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD7 match between FC Bayern München and R. Union Saint-Gilloise at Football Arena Munich on January 21, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Adam Pretty/Getty Images)
Bayern also boast world class attacking talents in Michael Olise and Jamal Musiala, who are expected to line up on the wing and in the no.10 role respectively when they face Atalanta in the round of 16. Vice-captain Joshua Kimmich will also run the midfield from his ‘Sechser’ role.
Head to head record
This will be the first time that Atalanta and Bayern have met in a competitive fixture.
Atalanta boast an impressive record against German opposition over since the 2023-24 campaign. They have played five matches against Bundesliga opposition over the last three seasons and have won four of them: Against VfB Stuttgart, Borussia Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League, and against Bayer Leverksuen in the final of the Europa League in 2024.
Over the same period, Bayern have only met two Italian opponents: Inter and Lazio. Surprisingly, Bayern have only won one of their last four encounters against Serie A opposition, which came against Lazio in the Champions League round of 16 in 2024. They also lost once against the Biancocelesti and drew one and lost one against Inter in last season’s Champions League quarter-final.
When will Atalanta and Bayern play each other?
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 11: The UEFA Champions League trophy is cleaned as it is displayed on a plinth at the side of the pitch prior to the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and Feyenoord at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on March 11, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Round of 16 first leg: Tuesday March 10, 2026 @ 20.00 GMT (at the New Balance Arena)
Round of 16 second leg: Wednesday March 18 @ 20.00 GMT (at the Allianz Arena)
Quarter-final first legs: Tuesday April 7 and Wednesday April 8
Quarter-final second legs: Tuesday April 14 and Wednesday April 15
Semi-final first legs: Tuesday April 28 and Wednesday April 29
Semi-final second legs: Tuesday May 5 and Wednesday May 6
Potential line-ups
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Sead Kolasinac of Atalanta celebrates victory following the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Atalanta BC and Borussia Dortmund at Stadio di Bergamo on February 25, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Raffaele Palladino has entirely transformed Atalanta since replacing Ivan Juric in November, and even if the Nerazzurri are clearly the underdogs against Bayern Munich, they can still cause trouble for the Germans, as other Bundesliga sides are aware of.
La Dea sit seventh in the Serie A table, but their position doesn’t tell the whole story of their form this season.
Their first coach, Juric, was sacked after winning just four of his 15 games in charge, leaving the Nerazzuri in 13th place in the Serie A table with just 13 points and two victories.
With Palladino in charge, Atalanta have won 15 of 23 games across all competitions, climbing to a Europa League spot (they are level on 45 points with Como) and just five points below the top four.
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Davide Zappacosta of Atalanta celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammates during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Atalanta BC and Borussia Dortmund at Stadio di Bergamo on February 25, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Their biggest signing in the January window was Italy international Giacomo Raspadori from Atletico Madrid, yet La Dea did not necessarily strengthen their attack as they also sent Ademola Lookman to the Wanda Metropolitano.
It is even unclear whether Raspadori will be available for the games against Bayern Munich, having suffered a bicep muscle injury just a couple of weeks ago. The same goes for Charles De Ketelaere, who underwent meniscus surgery earlier this month.
With his starting attacking midfielder unavailable in recent games, Palladino has often moved Nicola Zalewski from the left flank, adding either Mario Pasalic or Lazar Samardzic behind a lone striker.
Kamaldeen Sulemana is another option for that role, but currently, the Ghana international is slightly lower in Palladino’s pecking order.
Ederson and captain Marten De Roon provide quality and balance in central midfield. Davide Zappacosta, 33, has plenty of experience down the right flank. Raoul Bellanova is more explosive than the ex-Chelsea man, and left-back Lorenzo Bernasconi, 22, has proved to be more than a decent backup with three assists in 26 appearances across all competitions this term.
Under Palladino, Atalanta have scored 41 goals in 23 games and conceded just 19.
There have been a lot of rotations in defence with Palladino in charge, and currently, Giorgio Scalvini appears to be the only centre-back with a guaranteed starting spot. Sead Kolasinac and Isak Hien, however, have received regular playing time recently, especially following various individual mistakes from Berat Djimsiti, Odilon Kossounou and Honest Ahanor.
The latter has played only 31 minutes across two Serie A matches since an early red card in an away game at Como on February 1.
That match at the Stadio Sinigaglia perfectly showed the Atalanta spirit under Palladino. A team that has been built to play aggressively, but which is also able to resist the opponents’ pressure when necessary.
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Marco Carnesecchi of Atalanta celebrates victory following during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Atalanta BC and Borussia Dortmund at Stadio di Bergamo on February 25, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Forced to play down to ten men for practically the entire match, Atalanta still managed to come back home with a 0-0 draw, mostly thanks to their goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi, who even saved a late Nico Paz penalty kick.
The other side of Atalanta was on display last Wednesday, when the Nerazzurri beat Borussia Dortmund 4-1 with an incredible comeback in Bergamo.
Italy international Gianluca Scamacca scored the opening goal after just five minutes, and his substitute Nikola Krstovic earned a late penalty, converted by Pasalic to qualify La Dea for the Round of 16.
Atalanta’s attacking mindset, high press and quality in the final third, despite absences of Raspadori and De Ketelaere, will have to be the main features in the first leg in Bergamo against Bayern, while the second match at the Allianz Arena will naturally require a more defensive attitude and even more determination in the counter-attacks.
Strikers Scamacca and Krstovic are perfectly interchangeable and have similar numbers this season: ten goals for the Italian and nine for the Montenegrin.
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Gianluca Scamacca of Atalanta celebrates scoring his team’s first goal from a penalty, after Mattia Perin of Juventus (not pictured) failed to make a save, during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
True, Harry Kane alone has managed 43 for Bayern Munich this season, but we are talking about one of the best strikers and one of the best clubs in Europe for a reason.
No doubt Atalanta are the underdogs in the Champions League Round of 16, but it’s not the first time they’ve been in this position in recent years, especially against Bundesliga sides.
Back in 2023-24, they were the only team capable of beating Bayer Leverkusen, claiming the Europa League trophy and just a few days ago, they knocked Borussia Dortmund out, coming back from a 2-0 loss in the first leg.
Atalanta also beat Chelsea at home in the Champions League group phase this season and have already repeatedly shown that they rarely disappoint when the pressure is on.
Arsenal are front-runners to sign Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon, amidst interest from Liverpool and Manchester United.
Anthony Gordon’s consistent performances for Newcastle United haven’t gone unnoticed; rival clubs are keen on prising him away. Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal are all interested in his services. But according to a report from TEAMtalk, the Gunners are in the driving seat to sign the English international.
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Gordon has only gone from strength to strength since joining the Magpies from Everton at the start of 2023. He has established himself as one of the mainstays at the Tyneside club, and his consistent performances have attracted a lot of interest.
Anthony Gordon finds himself on Arsenal’s wishlist
While Newcastle haven’t been at their best this season, Gordon has certainly done his bit. In his 38 outings across competitions, the left winger has contributed towards 19 goals (15 goals, four assists).
He prefers playing out wide on the left, but has even been deployed in the number nine role. He has done a great job across the front line, and his versatility is one of the reasons rival clubs want to sign him.
With his contract running until 2029, the Magpies will be in the driving seat during negotiations. However, that won’t deter interested clubs. Arsenal are believed to be the most serious suitors. With Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli’s future uncertain, they are looking at Gordon as an ideal upgrade on the left flank.
Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
The Gunners are set to face stiff competition from Manchester United and Liverpool. Both clubs have enquired about his availability over the past year. However, the North London club are long-term admirers and have stolen a march on their rivals.
Arsenal are eyeing a £75 million deal, while the Magpies could look for a fee close to £95 million. Arteta’s team believe Gordon would be open to a potential transfer. The Red Devils could cause problems for the Gunners, as they are potentially ready to offer around £80 million. Liverpool were keen on signing him last summer, but the report suggests Newcastle will avoid selling him to a direct rival.
Manchester United and Newcastle United could battle it out for the signature of Inter Milan star midfielder Nicolo Barella.
Following their exit from the Champions League, Inter Milan find themselves in a difficult financial position. They might have to sanction the departure of some of their stars, and Nicolo Barella could be one of them. According to a report from Fichajes, Manchester United and Newcastle United are ready to pounce on the opportunity to sign the Italian international.
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Inter Milan will have to sell Nicolo Barella
Barella has been a part of the Inter Milan setup since 2019. Not only is one of their mainstays, but the 29-year-old is also widely regarded as one of the best midfielders in world football. While he prefers playing as a central midfielder, he is capable enough to take up any role in the centre of the park.
He is one of the first names on their team sheet and still has over three years left on his deal. However, the Italian midfielder could end up parting ways with Inter Milan this summer. The early exit from the Champions League is a massive financial blow. In order to balance their books, the Serie A giants are set to part ways with their most valuable assets.
Inter midfielder Nicolo Barella (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Barella is expected to be on the move and Inter Milan reportedly want around €70 million for their midfield general. Manchester United and Newcastle United have emerged as potential destinations. Both clubs seek more quality and depth in midfield and the 29-year-old can certainly help their cause.
The Red Devils want to bring in someone who can help better control the tempo and with Casemiro set to leave at the end of the season, Barella’s experience could come in handy. While Newcastle already have some top quality midfielders in their squad, they want to further strengthen their midfield rotation.
Both English clubs continue to closely monitor his situation. Meanwhile, Inter Milan are hoping for a bidding war between the Premier League clubs to drive up the final price.
Arne Slot’s Liverpool are plotting a raid on Sporting CP to sign their Colombian striker, Luis Suarez.
The Colombian international has taken his game to the next level since joining Sporting CP last summer. He has been in sensational form in the final third, and his performances haven’t gone unnoticed. According to a report from SportsBoom, Liverpool are keen on acquiring Suarez’s services.
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Liverpool to revive their attack with Suarez
The Merseyside club forked out a fortune to revamp their attack in the last summer transfer window. While the majority of those moves have worked out to an extent, Alexander Isak has struggled to get going since moving to Anfield.
Having signed him from Newcastle United after a long-drawn transfer saga, the Reds had massive expectations from him. But injuries haven’t allowed him to settle in at his new club, and it has also forced the club to look at the market for another forward.
Liverpool have identified Sporting’s Luis Suarez as an ideal fit for their system under Arne Slot. The 28-year-old is a versatile striker who is equally effective on either foot. The Reds have been extensively scouting him ahead of a potential transfer.
His consistency in the Portuguese top flight and his “clutch” performances in high-stakes Champions League encounters have impressed their scouts. The Reds seem determined to bring the Colombian to Anfield this summer.
Luis Suarez of Sporting Clube de Portugal reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD7 match between Sporting Clube de Portugal and Paris Saint-Germain at Estadio Jose Alvalade on January 20, 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images)
While he is an integral part of Sporting’s plans, the Portuguese club won’t mind cashing in on him as long as their demands are met. They value him at €60 million and won’t even negotiate below that mark.
With his contract running until 2030, the Portuguese outfit are in complete control of his future. Meanwhile, the player is ready to make the jump to a club that regularly features in the Champions League, and he is seeking a salary of around €7–€9 million. The wages certainly won’t be a problem for the Merseyside club if they do step up their interest in the 27-goal striker.
Arsenal 2025 summer signing Christian Norgaard wants to leave the club after the end of the season.
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal were proactive during the last summer window, and they managed to sign the majority of their transfer targets. With the help of those players, they are now in the driving seat to win the Premier League and could even go the distance in the Champions League.
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Christian Norgaard move to Arsenal hasn’t worked out
While the majority of those moves have worked out, Christian Norgaard has been frustrated by the lack of minutes, and according to The Sun, the former Brentford star wants to leave the North London club just 12 months after joining them. Norgaard has been linked with Ajax recently.
On the back of his consistent performances for the Bees, Arsenal forked out just £10 million (€11.4m, $13.5m) to sign the 31-year-old defensive midfielder. While he was never really going to be a regular starter, he did expect to have a decent role under Arteta.
Christian Norgaard of Arsenal (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
However, summer signing Martin Zubimendi’s exceptional performances have kept the Danish international on the bench in the majority of the games. The former Brentford star has only been involved in 14 games across competitions and hasn’t started a single Premier League outing.
While his contract runs until the summer of 2027 and includes an option to extend by another 12 months, Norgaard has no intention of staying at Arsenal. He is set to leave the club this summer in search of a more prominent role.
Since he still has a few years left at the highest level, the 31-year-old doesn’t intend to warm the bench at the North London club moving forward. Given how consistent he was during his time at Brentford, there should be no shortage of interest in him.
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has plenty of faith in his team when it comes to the knockout stages of the Champions League. The first hurdle will show just how much weight his words carry, as the Magpies face Barcelona in the round of 16. “I believe that we can raise our stakes and compete with […]
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Neymar was involved in a heated exchange with a Vasco da Gama player during Santos’ 2-1 victory.
On Thursday, Neymar scored a brace in Santos’ 2-1 win over Vasco da Gama on Matchday 4 of the Brazilian Serie A. Beyond his standout performance, the forward found himself at the center of a heated confrontation with an opposing player.
“He’s an idiot,”Neymar said about Thiago Mendes during a halftime, on-field interview shared by Sport. “He’s always the one who starts trouble, he wants to act tough, he’s always like that. With all due respect, he’s an idiot.”
The Santos star then recalled that this was not the first time he has had issues with Mendes. “He injured me once at PSG and today he promised to do it again. Let’s see if he’s man enough to try to injure me again,” Neymar said.
Indeed, the two players clashed several times in Ligue 1 when Neymar was playing for Paris Saint-Germain and Thiago Mendes was with Lille and later Olympique Lyon. In 2020, the midfielder caused Neymar to suffer an ankle sprain that forced him to leave the match on a stretcher, earning Mendes a red card.
Vasco da Gama midfielder Thiago Mendes.
This time, however, the situation did not escalate further. Both players were booked during the match, but there were no red cards or injuries. What Santos did get were two goals from Neymar — his first of 2026 following knee surgery — which secured the victory.
Neymar addresses recent criticism
After the match against Vasco da Gama, Neymar spoke to the media again and addressed the criticism he received last week for his performance in Santos’ loss to Novorizontino in the Campeonato Paulista. “Soccer is like that: one day you’re the worst player in the world, you don’t belong and you’re retired,” the forward began.
“The next, you score 2 goals and you’re the best, you have to go to the World Cup, you’re the number 10,” Neymar added, aware that such praise would follow his two-goal performance Thursday. “I’m taking it day by day. I’m working to be in the best shape possible. It’s my second 90-minute match of the year. I’m working hard and pushing myself.”
What’s next for Neymar?
In his quest to return to peak physical and competitive form, Neymar will not be lacking opportunities to play. Brazil’s packed soccer calendar this year is even more demanding than usual due to the interruption domestic competitions will face because of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Santos will return to action next Tuesday when they visit Mirassol for Brazilian Serie A Matchday 5. On March 15, they will face a tough home test against Corinthians, and just three days later they will take on Internacional.
Safe to say Felipe Melo was happy to see his former club Juventus eliminated from the Champions League at the hands of Galatasaray as he appeared smiling in a video, shouting ‘ bye bye.’
Former Brazilian midfielder Felipe Melo trolled Juventus after the Bianconeri’s Champions League exit on Wednesday.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Khephren Thuram of Juventus FC reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
A former midfielder for both Juve and Galatasaray, Melo appeared smiling and shouting in front of the TV at full-time: “Bye bye, everybody go home,” said the 42-year-old.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: (L-R) Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray in action against Lloyd Kelly of Juventus FC during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
Manchester United chief Christopher Vivell is eyeing a bargain move for Sevilla midfield sensation Lucien Agoume.
While Manchester United are pushing hard to secure Champions League football for next season, they have already started planning for the summer. The Red Devils will look to revamp their midfield, and according to a report from TEAMtalk, the Premier League giants are interested in signing Sevilla’s Lucien Agoume.
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Lucien Agoume is a part of Manchester United’s wishlist
Manchester United have some big plans for the summer. They are expected to at least sign two world-class midfielders this summer, with Casemiro set to leave the club and Manuel Ugarte likely to be offloaded.
While there was uncertainty around Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo’s future, the duo are expected to continue at Old Trafford as they are loving life under interim boss Michael Carrick. The Red Devils want to bring in a new defensive midfielder who can feature alongside Mainoo, and they are considering making a move for Agoume.
The Manchester-based giants have been constantly linked with the likes of Adam Wharton, Elliot Anderson and Carlos Baleba. The trio are expected to be their priority targets. However, signing them won’t be straightforward, and it would require a massive financial effort.
Lucien Agoume in action for Sevilla (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
As a result, they are also looking at Sevilla’s Agoume, who is set to be available for a bargain fee. Manchester United will most likely break the bank for Anderson, and they could look at the French midfield star as a cost-effective second signing to revamp their midfield.
Their scouting reports label him as a midfield ‘destroyer’, and he is outperforming some of their top targets. He was valued at just £20 million (€23m / $27m) last summer. While the price has certainly gone up, he is still a value-for-money option in comparison to others.
Chelsea are plotting a big-money move for Aston Villa attacking mainstay Morgan Rogers.
The English international has only gone from strength to strength since joining Aston Villa. Following his impressive rise at Villa Park, multiple top clubs are now keen on signing him. According to a report from Fichajes, Chelsea are looking to secure his services in a deal worth around €100 million, as they look to form a team capable of winning the Premier League.
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Joe Shields wants Morgan Rogers signed
Chelsea chief Joe Shields, who took Rogers to Manchester City back in the day, is now keen on signing him at the London club. While the move to the Manchester-based giants didn’t work out, he has certainly established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in the English top flight with his consistent performances for Aston Villa.
The Blues have brought in some of the most talented young players from across the globe in recent years. While they already have some serious firepower, Liam Rosenior, who took charge mid-season, seems to have some big plans for the summer.
Morgan Rogers celebrates a goal for Aston Villa (Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images)
The 41-year-old wants to form an attack that consists of Estevao on the right flank, Cole Palmer in the number ten role, Joao Pedro up top, and Morgan Rogers on the left flank. He believes the 23-year-old’s arrival could help them take the next step and win the Premier League.
Rogers is an integral part of Aston Villa’s setup under Unai Emery, and they won’t let him leave unless there is a record-breaking offer on the table. Since a potential transfer could cost in excess of €100 million, the Blues are looking to raise funds by cashing in on the likes of Alejandro Garnacho and Liam Delap.
The Birmingham-based outfit has complete control over his future with a long-term deal in place. However, the player’s desire could play a big part, and Chelsea are optimistic about luring him away.
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A deal didn’t materialise on that occasion, and it is not yet entirely certain if Palace will go back in for the Morocco international, with other clubs also being linked.
The report mentions the likes of Lyon, Marseille, and PSV Eindhoven as potential suitors for El Ouahdi, who is expected to leave Genk.
If Palace do retain some interest in the 24-year-old, who can play out wide or at right-back, then it looks like the opportunity could be there to try to revive a deal.
Could Crystal Palace do with Zakaria El Ouahdi transfer to replace Daniel Munoz?
Zakaria El Ouahdi in action for Morocco (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
Munoz himself has fuelled speculation by also expressing a desire to play for a bigger club at some point.
“If you ask me, it would be a dream to play for one of these clubs, whether it’s Barcelona, PSG, Real Madrid, or Manchester United,” Munoz said, as quoted by Sport Witness.
“I think I’m working towards that. I strive every day to one day attract the attention of one of these clubs, because for me, it’s a dream to get there.”
Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has urged Anthony Gordon to be “fully focused” after emerging reports linking the forward with a move to Arsenal. The Gunners are reportedly interested in signing the England international this summer, with Liverpool and Manchester United also said to be looking at the Magpies star. Gordon has scored just three […]
Manchester City will face Real Madrid in the Champions League last 16 after the two teams were drawn against each other for the fifth consecutive European campaign. Pep Guardiola’s side were knocked out by Los Blancos in the play-off phase in 2024-25, a year after they were eliminated by the same opposition in the quarter-finals. […]
Newcastle United have reportedly made initial contact over a potential transfer move for Chelsea’s highly-rated young goalkeeper Mike Penders.
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The 20-year-old is currently on loan at Ligue 1 club Strasbourg, and faces plenty of competition for a first-team place at Stamford Bridge, so a permanent exit could make sense for him in the near future.
Now a report from Jeunes Footeux is claiming that Newcastle are keen on Penders, and that they have already begun to lay down the groundwork for a potential deal.
The report is not that clear, however, if these initial contacts have taken place with the club or the player, but perhaps that will become clearer later.
Mike Penders in action for Strasbourg (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Newcastle to make changes in goal this summer?
Newcastle could do with signing a top young ‘keeper right now, as Nick Pope is not getting any younger, while Aaron Ramsdale is only at St James’ Park on loan.
This potentially gives Eddie Howe a bit of a headache in goal, so bringing one or more of Penders, Trafford, or Verbruggen makes sense as a priority.
Still, the Belgium Under-21 international is a big prospect and his lack of opportunities at Chelsea might also mean he’s more realistically available than some other ‘keepers Newcastle might be tempted to look at.
Verbruggen is the clear first choice at Brighton, so surely won’t be available without paying big money, though Trafford could be another opportunity as he also looks like facing a struggle to establish himself as first choice with his current club.
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The England international has struggled with injuries since joining Man Utd from Chelsea a few years ago, and it makes sense that his future could be in some doubt.
According to Mick Brown, speaking to Football Insider, Villa were keen on Mount before and it wouldn’t be surprising if they still retained an interest in him.
It could be that Mount would play more regularly at Villa Park than he has at Old Trafford, so the move could well appeal to the 27-year-old.
Brown says he’s also heard really positive things about Mount, so even if he’s not been at his best, there’s every reason to think Villa would be tempted to try their luck with him.
Mason Mount praised and tipped for Aston Villa transfer
Mason Mount of Manchester United in action against Tottenham (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Discussing Mount’s future, Brown told Football Insider: “There’s going to be no shortage of interest in a player like Mount.
“He’s got a very good reputation and he’s spoken about very highly at Man United.
“Everybody I speak to says what a wonderful trainer he is, he works very hard and his general demeanour around the club and in the dressing room is good.
“That’s always good to hear if you’re looking into a player because it’s important to bring people in who have the right attitude and application.
“I’m told Aston Villa have been keen on him before and I’m sure he’s still on their radar, and then you’ve got teams like Fulham who will be looking if he is made available.”
Should Man United let Mason Mount go?
United fans will likely be divided on what to do with Mount at this stage, as he clearly hasn’t fulfilled his potential, but might still have it in him to turn things around.
The 2025-26 UEFA Champions League knockout bracket has delivered exactly what European soccer fans crave: heavyweight clashes, rising stars on collision courses, and a clear path to Budapest.
The 2025-26 UEFA Champions League knockout bracket has delivered exactly what European soccer fans crave: heavyweight clashes, rising stars on collision courses, and a clear path to Budapest. With Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior set to face Erling Haaland, and with Lamine Yamal, Ousmane Dembele, and Harry Kane all discovering their respective fates, the draw has shaped a blockbuster spring across the continent. Each club now knows the road it must travel, and it is anything but simple.
The ceremony, staged in Nyon by UEFA, confirmed the Round of 16 matchups and revealed the full bracket through to the final in Budapest. What emerged was a mix of historic rivalries, modern classics, and tantalizing potential semi-final showdowns.
The standout tie sees Real Madrid face Manchester City in a clash that has defined recent Champions League history. This encounter ensures that Mbappe and Vinicius will go head-to-head with Haaland, renewing a rivalry that has shaped the modern European narrative.
The numbers underline the rivalry’s intensity: the two clubs have shared wins and draws evenly in recent years, producing razor-thin margins in decisive moments.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid celebrates with Vinicius Junior.
Yamal, Dembele, and Kane learn their fate
Now to the lingering question surrounding some of Europe’s most exciting attacking names. Lamine Yamal and Barcelona will face Newcastle. The matchup rekindles memories of early 2000s encounters between the Spanish and English clubs. For the Blaugrana, the bracket appears manageable, though potential later clashes with Arsenal or Atletico Madrid loom large.
Ousmane Dembele’s Paris Saint-Germain must navigate Chelsea, a rematch of their recent Club World Cup final meeting, a game the English club won convincingly. This tie promises intensity and tactical nuance.
On the other hand,Harry Kane’s Bayern Munich faces Atalanta, a dangerous and dynamic Italian side capable of unsettling Europe’s elite. Should Bayern progress, a potential quarter-final against either Real Madrid or Manchester City awaits, a daunting prospect.
Quarter-final and semi-final outlook
The bracket ensures that the winner of Real Madrid vs Manchester City could meet Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals. Beyond that, a potential semi-final against PSG or Liverpool looms.
On the opposite side, Barcelona’s path could eventually bring a showdown with Atletico Madrid or Arsenal, raising the possibility of a fiercely contested all-Spanish or Anglo-Spanish semi-final.
The first legs of the Round of 16 are scheduled for March 10–11, with return fixtures the following week. From there, the route to the final, set for May 30 in Budapest, is now clearly mapped.
Erling Haaland (left) and Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior (right)
According to Christian Falk, writing in his latest column for CF Bayern Insider, Bayern seem to have decided on a new deal for Dayot Upamecano over a potential transfer move for Schlotterbeck.
TEAMtalk have also linked Schlotterbeck with Liverpool, reporting that he could cost around £50m, and a lack of competition from Bayern should help the Reds.
Christian Falk on Nico Schlotterbeck transfer
Nico Schlotterbeck celebrates a goal for Borussia Dortmund (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
Discussing the Schlotterbeck links with Bayern, Falk said: “They made the decision that they would look at signing a new centre-back had Dayot Upamecano not agreed on signing a new contract. But the Frenchman did put pen to paper! So, Bayern have decided on Upamecano – though not against Schlotterbeck, it should be emphasised. He would have been a sound alternative had FC Bayern needed a defender.
“So, they don’t see a situation where this topic would be brought to the table again. Even if Kim Min-jae were to leave the club, they don’t need a player like the Borussia Dortmund defender, because then you have three number one centre-backs between Jonathan Tah, Upamecano and Schlotterbeck! They would need a player behind the first-choice partnership, and this simply isn’t Nico Schlotterbeck.”
Liverpool fans will have to hope this gives their club a decent chance of landing Schlotterbeck, who looks like he could be ideal to give them a boost at the back.
Liverpool’s defensive issues
It’s been a disappointing season for LFC, who have not been solid enough with their defensive displays, conceding 35 Premier League goals so far, which is a whole ten more than Manchester City and 14 more than league leaders Arsenal.
Virgil van Dijk is not getting any younger, while Ibrahima Konate is nearing the end of his contract, so Schlotterbeck could have an important role to play in Arne Slot’s squad.
We’ll have to see if Liverpool definitely end up going for him, but it looks like there could be an opportunity there now that Bayern have secured Upamecano’s future.
The Champions League draw has been made, with the likes of Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool learning their opponents for the Champions League last 16.
All six English clubs made it through to the knockout stages, with Arsenal finishing top of the table after the league phase, winning all eight of their games.
Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Tottenham also qualified automatically, while Newcastle earned a pretty comfortable victory over Qarabag to make it through the playoffs.
Champions League draw in full as clubs learn last 16 opponents
Arsenal players lining up for a Champions League game (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
The Champions League draw has been completed this Friday morning, with some mouth-watering ties to look forward to in there…
This looks like a particularly kind draw for Arsenal, as they avoid a possible quarter-final clash against Manchester City and will instead face either Sporting Lisbon or Bodo/Glimt, putting them in a good position to make the semi-finals.
We avoided an all-English clash between Chelsea and Newcastle, which was a possibility, but with so many Premier League clubs still in the competition, it’s surely a possibility that we’ll get them facing each other at some point.
Champions League knockout stages dates
The dates this season’s knockout ties will be played are as follows…
Last 16: 10-11 and 17-18 March
Quarter-finals: 7-8 and 14-15 April
Semi-finals: 28-29 April and 5-6 May
Final: 30 May
Which Champions League tie are you looking forward to most? Are you happy with your team’s draw? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Liverpool and Manchester United may be in luck as it seems that FC Koln sensation Said El Mala is keen on a potential transfer to the Premier League.
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According to Christian Falk in his latest CF Bayern Insider column, El Mala doesn’t necessarily look like someone Bayern Munich are going to pay big money for at the moment.
And in any case, the 19-year-old winger could be more likely to move to England instead, with Falk naming Brighton as one possible destination for him.
Discussing the current situation with El Mala, Falk said: “It is TRUE: Said El Mala is interested in a move to the Premier League. He loves the league, he loves the country. It would be a good option to go to Brighton also. The Seagulls have had offers for him previously. But if he has a chance to get to a club at a higher level in the Premier League, this would also be very interesting!
Said El Mala in action for FC Koln (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)
“At this point, we have Bayern Munich at the table, who are also searching in this position. El Mala is a relatively inexpensive solution. He’s a player who could be a future Germany international, so it’s a very interesting transfer. However, I don’t think Bayern Munich will do anything crazy to try and sign the teenager. The FC Köln winger’s playing style isn’t a perfect fit for FC Bayern because he needs space. He’s very fast, which is why Bayern are keeping an eye on the situation.
“The reigning Bundesliga champions currently have an agreement with FC Köln that if there is any suspicion of an offer coming from elsewhere, they’ll have the right of first refusal. Then they can discuss internally if they want to make a concrete move, with a lot of money going to FC Köln. I’m sure Said El Mala will get his transfer this summer because he’s currently far too good of a player to even be sitting on the bench at FC Köln. He’s not always in the starting-XI and that’s why he’s a little disappointed.”
Said El Mala’s recent form
El Mala has an impressive eight goals and three assists in the Bundesliga so far this season despite not always being an automatic starter for his current club.
The teenager could surely flourish with better players around him, and it looks like there’s room for someone like him at Man United right now.
The Red Devils have recently let the likes of Alejandro Garnacho, Anthony, Marcus Rashford, and Jadon Sancho leave, signing an entire new front three of Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko last summer.
Cunha hasn’t been that consistent, however, so El Mala could be another good option for MUFC to have in their front three.
Liverpool, meanwhile, could also do well to snap up this talent as they look in need of a long-term replacement for the ageing Mohamed Salah, whose form has really tailed off this season.
Manchester United are reportedly interested in Newcastle United defender Malick Thiaw, and they don’t look set to face competition from Bayern Munich.
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That’s according to German journalist and transfer expert Christian Falk, who has played down the Thiaw to Bayern links in his latest column for CF Bayern Insider.
Falk says Bayern already have good options at the back, so a move for Thiaw wouldn’t make much sense for them at this stage, even if the player himself might well fancy a move back to Germany.
Malick Thiaw in action for Newcastle against PSG (Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)
Malick Thiaw to Manchester United could be more likely than Bayern Munich
“It is NOT TRUE: Bayern are interested in signing Malick Thiaw this summer,” Falk wrote.
“Of course, he’s an interesting player. He’s already played for the German national team, and if they’re searching for a new centre-back, Thiaw has a profile that’s of great interest.
“I know the player quite well, but at the moment, it doesn’t make any sense to bring the 24-year-old to Munich because of Jonathan Tah and Dayot Upamecano. I heard that the player himself would, of course, see a better chance of more minutes with the national side if he were to make a move back to Germany.
“But Malick Thiaw is doing very well at Newcastle, and he’s enjoying his stay there, so there’s no pressure here! I heard that Manchester United, however, do have their eye on the centre-back, so perhaps this is the more interesting transfer story at the moment!”
United could surely do well to add Thiaw to their squad as Lisandro Martinez has been quite injury-prone, while Harry Maguire is approaching the end of his contract, and others like Ayden Heaven and Matthijs de Ligt haven’t always been entirely convincing.
I’ve spoken with my contacts today about an interesting situation developing at Manchester City, with growing uncertainty over Savinho despite him only recently signing a new contract.
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Savinho, for all his potential, is struggling to make an impact at the Etihad Stadium, with just two goals and two assists in 23 appearances so far this season.
We know Tottenham showed a strong interest in the Brazilian winger last summer, with a £70m bid swiftly rejected by City. I’m told that interest from Spurs is still there, even if there haven’t been any fresh contacts or approaches made. Keep an eye on Juventus and clubs from La Liga as well.
Still, a lot of people I’ve spoken to still insist that City’s stance is crystal clear: Savinho is seen as “untouchable.” City’s sporting director Hugo Viana is apparently “convinced” of the youngster’s potential, while Pep Guardiola is determined to mould him into a world‑class winger.
Savinho of Manchester City (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
Should experienced figures like Bernardo Silva depart, which is a strong possibility this summer, then the creative burden in attack is expected to fall even more heavily on Savinho’s shoulders.
His new contract, which runs until June 2031, gives City enormous leverage. Financially, the club has no need to sell, further strengthening Savinho’s position. Any potential exit would only be entertained at a starting price of £75–80 million, though insiders insist even such figures carry little weight under the current strategy.
Savinho happy at Manchester City
I’m also told that Savinho is happy at Manchester City and fully focused on continuing his journey there.
As things stand, he has not spoken with any other club or considered looking for any kind of move, with the player simply focused on ensuring he plays regularly for City and works his way into Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad.
There’s always a chance, of course, that things could change if City are active again when it comes to strengthening in attack.
We saw Antoine Semenyo joining from Bournemouth in January, and there continue to be links with Real Madrid’s Rodrygo. I’m not personally aware of anything happening on that front right now, but it’s something that could be revisited in the summer which would then surely have an impact on Savinho’s future.
That’s according to this journalist on X, with the Reds seemingly working on a very exciting couple of moves ahead of the summer.
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The X post reads: “Our high-level source at @LFC has provided us information that the club are in talks with Michael Olise’s representatives and will activate the release clause once personal terms are agreed Liverpool want to sign both Michael Olise & Yan Diomande this summer.”
Liverpool fans will hope this proves accurate, as Olise in particular could be a real game-changer of a signing for the Reds.
Michael Olise transfer would be huge for Liverpool
Olise has ten goals and 16 assists in 22 Bundesliga games so far this season, meaning he’s averaging more than one goal contribution per game.
The France international is widely regarded as one of the finest attacking players in the world at the moment, and that’s the calibre of player Liverpool need to come in as a long-term successor to Mohamed Salah.
Michael Olise in action for Bayern Munich (Photo by Selim Sudheimer/Getty Images)
At the same time, however, it’s surely going to be very expensive getting Olise out of Bayern, and it’s not immediately obvious that he’d be in any hurry to leave the Allianz Arena.
LFC might also find themselves without Champions League football next season, which would surely really harm their chances of landing a signing like this.
Yan Diomande could be an alternative to Michael Olise
The links with Diomande could therefore be important, as the Leipzig youngster might work well as an alternative to Olise.
The 19-year-old is not yet at Olise’s level, but he certainly looks like one of the next big things and could in some ways be an even smarter option.
We’ve seen more established names like Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz struggle at Liverpool, whereas Hugo Ekitike has been superb, so there might again be some sense in going for a profile like Diomande over Olise.
Fabrizio Romano reports that Cristiano Ronaldo will continue to look for opportunities to invest in clubs after he purchased a 25% stake in Spanish second division side Almeria.
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Still, it could be that we’ll also see more of Ronaldo expanding his business empire away from the pitch, with Romano stating that Almeria probably won’t be the last club we see the 41-year-old investing in.
?? Understand Almería investment will be just the beginning for Cristiano Ronaldo’s future projects, not the only one.
Cristiano’s keen on investing in ambitious projects and clubs if more opportunities will appear in the future.
“Understand Almería investment will be just the beginning for Cristiano Ronaldo’s future projects, not the only one,” Romano posted on X. “Cristiano’s keen on investing in ambitious projects and clubs if more opportunities will appear in the future.”
What next for Cristiano Ronaldo?
Ronaldo is one of the biggest names in sport, not just football, and he’s amassed tremendous wealth after a legendary playing career.
The BBC were among the outlets to recently report that Ronaldo had become the first billionaire footballer, so that surely means he’s going to put that money somewhere.
Cristiano Ronaldo acknowledges Al Nassr fans (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Romano has not yet named any specific clubs we could see CR7 going after, but there will undoubtedly be some Manchester United fans keeping an eye on this.
Many Red Devils supporters will be unhappy with the Glazers and with Sir Jim Ratcliffe, so perhaps Ronaldo could at some point get involved at Old Trafford.
Ronaldo is one of Man Utd’s best ever players, and he’d surely be seen as an ideal figure to come back and steer the club back in the right direction.
That’s probably a long way off at this point, but it will be something to watch if Ronaldo really takes these kinds of investments seriously and looks for even more ambitious projects in the future.
Transfer news expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that Arsenal will look for a midfielder, a winger, and a right-back this summer.
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The journalist, speaking on YouTube, suggested those would be the three priorities for Arsenal in the summer transfer window, though he was yet to name any specific names the Gunners could be looking at.
It makes sense, however, that Arsenal are already making some early plans for the summer, and that they have a few areas they’re keen to improve in, or at least add depth in.
Fabrizio Romano on Arsenal’s transfer plans
“I want to start with Arsenal … in the background there are always talks, always discussions and always things happening,” Romano said.
Arsenal players celebrate in the 4-1 win vs Tottenham (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
“One thing I can guarantee is that Arsenal will work on eventually midfielders in the summer. We know for example some of the names, some of the options they already considered in January … so Arsenal are looking at some options.
“But I can tell you that one of the priorities in the summer transfer window for Arsenal, I think a bit underrated in this moment, in terms of media, could be also to add a younger right-back to the squad.
“So Arsenal are also considering the possibility to do something not just in midfield, but could be also at right-back position and also on the winger position. So Arsenal are going to be active in the summer transfer window.”
Arsenal will likely have a few names in mind, even if it’s not yet clear who they’re going to make a priority for those positions mentioned.
One midfielder we’re aware of Arsenal being interested in is talented Wolves teenager Mateus Mane, though Liverpool are felt to be leading the race for his signature at the moment.
Meanwhile, a winger to watch could be Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon, who has had another fine season and who could surely give Mikel Arteta something a bit different in his front three.
Newcastle United are reportedly looking at two big-name Premier League goalkeepers in the form of Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen and Manchester City’s James Trafford.
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The Magpies are keen to explore long-term options to replace the ageing Nick Pope this summer, and it seems Verbruggen and Trafford are among their top targets, according to iNews.
The report also makes it clear that Newcastle previously tried to sign Trafford but failed, though they’ll hope there’s a chance to make it a third time lucky this summer.
Newcastle’s goalkeeper transfer plans
Newcastle currently have Aaron Ramsdale on loan at St James’ Park and that’s another decision they have to think about.
The report from iNews states that NUFC are yet to make a final decision on making Ramsdale’s move permanent, though it’s suggested that his wages could be an issue.
It therefore surely makes sense for Newcastle to look at the likes of Verbruggen and Trafford ahead of the summer.
Trafford in particular seems likely to be available after a difficult first season at Man City, where he’s had to make do with being a backup in Pep Guardiola’s squad.
Trafford initially looked like he’d surely be joining City to be their new number one, and he started a few games in the Premier League early on in the 2025/26 campaign.
However, the 23-year-old wasn’t entirely convincing, particularly in a home defeat to Tottenham, and Gianluigi Donnarumma later ended up moving to the Etihad Stadium.
Trafford would surely be tempted by a move to Newcastle if they could guarantee him the number one spot, which seems likely.
Bart Verbruggen of Brighton and Hove Albion (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
The Dutch shot-stopper looks like he has it in him to move up to a higher level, and if Newcastle don’t get him this summer then it seems only a matter of time before another big club tries their luck.
Liverpool and Manchester United are reportedly both unsure about paying as much as £50m for the potential transfer of Wolves wonderkid Mateus Mane.
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We recently reported on Liverpool leading the race for Mane, who won’t come cheap after establishing himself as one of the most exciting prospects in the country.
The information we received, however, was that clubs were unlikely to pay Wolves’ £50m asking price for the 18-year-old, and that’s now also being confirmed by reports elsewhere.
This latest update comes from Football Insider, whose report perhaps offers Wolves some hope of keeping Mane even if they get relegated at the end of this season.
Mateus Mane transfer update as Liverpool and Man United wowed by wonderkid
Mateus Mane of Wolves in the pre-match warm-up (Photo by Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images)
Football Insider suggests Liverpool and Man Utd won’t pay Wolves’ current demands for Mane, but they also state that clubs have been left amazed by his progress after scouting him in recent times.
One imagines Wolves will struggle to keep a prospect like this for much longer, so that could mean they’ll eventually have to lower their asking price.
Mane is surely already too good to be playing in the Championship, so it will be interesting to see what kind of deal can be agreed to keep him in the Premier League this summer.
Mateus Mane praised as “special” by former Wolves manager
“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 England youth international has two goals and one assist in 17 Premier League games so far this season.
Verdict: Vinicius Junior to score anytime Best Odds: 21/10 Bookmaker: Olympusbet Turning their attention back to La Liga duties on Monday night, Real Madrid will welcome local rivals Getafe to the Bernabeu. Real Madrid Starting with the hosts, suffering spectacular last-gasp heartbreak away at Osasuna last weekend as they eventually slumped to an infamous 2-1 […]
With his knee injury resurfacing at Real Madrid, Kylian Mbappe is reportedly causing concern within the France national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Kylian Mbappe has become one of the players to watch ahead of the 2026 World Cup, where the striker, already considered one of the leading contenders with France, will have the chance to chase multiple records. However, his recent knee injury at Real Madrid is reportedly beginning to raise concern among Les Bleus ahead of the tournament.
The 2025-26 season began with Mbappe in outstanding scoring form, making him the top scorer in both the UEFA Champions League and La Liga. But his run was interrupted by a knee injury suffered December 7 against Celta Vigo, an issue that has resurfaced in recent days.
According to L’Equipe, the France national team now fears Mbappe could reach the World Cup dealing with what was described as “unprecedented” knee discomfort. While Real Madrid had previously labeled the problem a sprain, his absence from the key Champions League match against Benfica reignited concerns that the injury could be more serious than initially thought.
After suffering a setback in training the day before the Benfica clash, Mbappe decided, alongside head coach Alvaro Arbeloa and the medical staff, to sit out the match. Reports from the French outlet added that he had been playing “on one leg” for the Spanish side over the past six weeks, particularly struggling when accelerating.
Didier Deschamps, Head Coach of France, celebrates with Kylian Mbappe.
To address the issue, Mbappe is set to undergo an accelerated treatment program aimed at avoiding a more serious injury or the need for surgery. Either scenario, with the World Cup less than four months away, could sideline the striker not only for a large portion of the season but also for the tournament itself.
France have been drawn into Group I for the World Cup and face a challenging path that includes Norway national team led by Erling Haaland and Senegal national team captained by Sadio Mane, the reigning Africa Cup of Nations champion. The group will be completed by a nation from the intercontinental playoff between Bolivia, Iraq, or Suriname, making Mbappe’s fitness crucial if France want to avoid any early surprises.
Real Madrid still unsure of the severity of Mbappe’s injury
With surgery currently ruled out, Real Madrid’s plan is to manage Mbappe carefully to prevent a more serious setback. However, that approach leaves the club uncertain about when he will be able to return.
Even before the Benfica match, Arbeloa addressed Mbappe’s condition in an interview with Movistar+: “We can call it an injury, but I hope it’s not very serious and that he can return in a few days or weeks. We’re very clear about what’s wrong with him, and we want him to recover.“
No official recovery timeline, or detailed medical statement, has been released by Madrid. Still, the striker is expected to miss at least the La Liga matches against Getafe CF (March 2) and Celta Vigo (March 7) as the club monitors his progress day by day.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
Verdict: Real Betis win Best Odds: 4/5 Bookmaker: Dachbet In what is a fierce derby showdown on Sunday evening, Real Betis will welcome Sevilla to the Estadio de La Cartuja. Real Betis Starting with the hosts, while Real Betis might have watched their Copa del Rey adventure come to a thumping end on February 5th […]
With the lineups confirmed, Lionel Messi and Rodrigo de Paul won't be starting for Inter Miami in their friendly against Independiente del Valle.
Inter Miami are set to face Independiente del Valle on Thursday in a postponed preseason friendly in Puerto Rico, a match that generated major anticipation among fans on the island. However, eyebrows were raised when Lionel Messi and Rodrigo de Paul were nowhere to be seen in the Herons’ starting lineup.
Messi and De Paul won’t start against Independiente del Valle due to a technical decision. Inter Miami’s head coach opted for heavy rotation for the friendly in Puerto Rico, leaving both Argentina stars on the bench.
The decision was also made with consideration for how close the friendly is within the team’s tight schedule. Inter Miami played their MLS opener against LAFC on Saturday, leaving only four days of rest before today’s friendly, in addition to the travel demands of the trip to Puerto Rico.
The team will also have its next MLS game away next Sunday, March 1, against Orlando City in the Florida derby, meaning just 72 hours between today’s friendly and their next match. In this situation, and with Messi still not at his best after recovering from a muscle strain, Mascherano has decided to keep the star on the bench for now.
Still, Puerto Rican fans are eager to see Messi on the pitch, who’s likely to jump in for the second half. Even when arriving to the stadium, the Inter Miami star had a warm reception from local fans, showcasing how important it is his presence in the game.
Huge squad rotation in Inter Miami
Compared to the starting lineup in the MLS debut against LAFC, head coach Mascherano has made 9 substitutions, with only Ian Fray and Yannick Bright as the ones who survived the cut for Thursday’s friendly. During the pre-match press conference early today, the Argentine boss addressed his plan of rotating the squad to give minutes to players who have seen limited action so far.
“The match gives us the opportunity to give minutes to guys who perhaps haven’t seen as much action, both during the preseason and in our last league match. We’re going to try to get everyone on the pitch,” he stated. “We need to get minutes for the entire squad, while also being careful since we have a very important match against Orlando in just 72 hours,” he added.
Lionel Messi #10 and Rodrigo De Paul #7 of Inter Miami CF.
Verdict: Manchester United win Best Odds: 4/7 Bookmaker: Olympusbet Looking to extend on their Champions League charge on Sunday afternoon, Manchester United will welcome Crystal Palace to Old Trafford. Manchester United Starting with the hosts, while many around Old Trafford might have been left shocked last month following Michael Carrick’s return to the red half […]
Virgil van Dijk accepts Liverpool “are not perfect” right now as the Reds look to keep their momentum going this weekend against West Ham. Liverpool defeated Nottingham Forest 1-0 last week in the final seconds to make it three wins in a row in all competitions. Arne Slot’s side have won five of their past […]
Lionel Messi scored in Inter Miami’s 2-1 win over Independiente del Valle.
Inter Miami played their final friendly against Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico and came away with a 2-1 victory. Santiago Morales opened the scoring for the Herons, Patrick Mercado equalized, and in the second half, Lionel Messi converted a penalty to give Miami the lead.
During the first half, Inter Miami were the more active side, despite fielding a largely rotated lineup. Luis Suarez was one of the standout performers, providing multiple key passes to teammates and even coming close to scoring from a free kick.
It was Suarez who set up Santiago Morales for the opener, with the young midfielder dribbling past the goalkeeper and a defender before finishing with composure. However, that lead was short-lived, as Independiente del Valle quickly responded with an equalizer from Patrick Mercado.
After the break, the fans got what they came to see: Lionel Messi entered for the second half and showcased his brilliance. He scored the Herons’ second goal from the penalty spot after a handball in the box. That goal was enough to seal the win in Inter Miami’s final friendly.
Álvaro Arbeloa left a spicy comment about Real Madrid's next rival in the Champions League drawing.
Real Madrid confirmed their place in the Champions League round of 16 with a victory over Benfica on Wednesday in Madrid. In the press conference following the win, Álvaro Arbeloa had something to say.
The new format of the competition doesn’t establish a full draw from the beginning. There’s a draw after the playoff round to establish matches between two possibilities for each of the main eight teams from the league phase.
For Real Madrid, Manchester City or Sporting will be the rivals. Arbeloa made a comment that may not be well received by UEFA officials: “People have gotten used to a City-Real Madrid. I’m sure we get that again. It doesn’t matter to us, it’s going to be hard anyway knowing the rematch isn’t at home. Let’s see what the hot draw ball says.” This implies the draw could once again pair them with Manchester City in a highly anticipated matchup.
Thibaut Courtois agrees with Arbeloa
The main person in the team for the hardest moments has been Thibaut Courtois. His presence covers some mistakes from the Real Madrid defense, giving his teammates confidence.
Courtois gives the team much reliability (Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
With his usual calmness on the field, he repeated the prediction that Arbeloa had as to who they are going to see in the next round. Unlike his manager, the goalkeeper’s answer was a simple “yes, we are seeing them.”
Courtois also referred to the possibility of playing against the Portuguese club Sporting: “It’s been a long time since I played them. It’s a nice stadium. It’s a hard rival, but we have history with City too, it’s the dream match for the lottery.”
The Champions League draw
The rivals for all remaining teams will be decided by a draw. This will take place on Friday, 27 February at 6:00 AM EST. Looking further ahead, the potential rivals that Real Madrid could get in the quarterfinals are Atalanta, Arsenal or Bayern Munich. From that side of the draw in the semifinals, one potential challenge could be PSG.
Arbeloa predicted their next rivals in the Champions League
After scoring his first goal in 2026 with Santos since his return from injury, Neymar paid a tribute to his teammate in the national team Vinicius Junior.
Neymar raised concerns last year after suffering a knee injury that could have affected his form just months before the World Cup with Brazil. Now the star forward has finally returned to the scoresheet in 2026 with Santos, celebrating with a tribute to teammate Vinicius Junior following recent events in the UEFA Champions League.
On Thursday, Santos hosted a 2026 league matchup against Vasco da Gama at Vila Belmiro, looking to bounce back after one draw and two losses in their first three games. Head coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda included Neymar in the starting lineup, marking his second straight start, and the star delivered.
In the 25th minute, Santos launched a quick counterattack through midfield, and drifting in from the left, Moisés slipped a pass into space for Neymar to strike first time and score the opener. It was Neymar’s first goal of 2026 and his first since scoring against Juventude on December 3 in Matchday 37 of last season’s Brasileirão.
But Neymar was far from finished. After Vasco scored the equalizer in the 43rd minute, the superstar forward took center stage once again. Capitalizing on a defensive mistake that left him one-on-one with Leo Jardim, Neymar coolly chipped the keeper in the 61st minute, completing his brace and securing Santos’ first victory of the Brasileirao campaign.
Neymar missed Santos’ first 10 matches after undergoing arthroscopic surgery to address a meniscus issue late last year. With his stated priority being full fitness for the World Cup, the goal represents another step toward convincing Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti to include him in the squad.
Neymar and a tribute to Vinicius Junior
Vinicius Junior made headlines last week after alleging he was racially abused by Gianluca Prestianni during the first leg against Benfica. The incident sparked widespread debate across the soccer world, with the Portuguese club denying the accusations and multiple figures weighing in publicly.
One notable voice who had not commented publicly was Neymar, one of Vinicius’ closest friends on the national team. Instead, the Santos forward chose to show support in his own way.
While celebrating his goal, Neymar first made a “silence” gesture toward the stands where some fans were booing him, then ran to the corner flag and recreated the same dance celebration Vinicius used in the Champions League match.
As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup accelerates, speculation has intensified over whether the Selecao’s all-time leading scorer will return to the international stage this March.
Carlo Ancelotti and Neymar once again find their names intertwined at a decisive crossroads for the Brazil national team. As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup accelerates, speculation has intensified over whether the Selecao’s all-time leading scorer will return to the international stage this March.
For the Brazilian public, Neymar remains the emotional centerpiece of the national team. For Ancelotti, however, sentiment does not outweigh structure. The Italian coach is shaping a squad not just for friendlies, but for a global tournament where physical condition, tactical clarity, and squad balance will determine everything.
Brazil is scheduled to travel to the United States for two high-profile friendlies against France and Croatia. The matches, set for Boston and Orlando, represent the final experimental window before the definitive World Cup list is finalized.
According toESPN Brasil, Neymar was never part of the original blueprint for these fixtures. The early elimination of Santos from the Campeonato Paulista — a disappointing result against Novorizontino — did not alter that stance. Instead, it reinforced an already cautious roadmap.
Neymar playing for Santos.
In the middle of the mounting speculation, the key decision has emerged: Carlo Ancelotti is not planning to call Neymar up for the March friendlies. This is not a rejection; it’s a postponement. The coaching staff views March not as a ceremonial return for the No. 10, but as a laboratory for unresolved tactical questions.
Calculated delay, not closed door?
Ancelotti’s technical team believes they already understand what Neymar offers. Integration is not the issue; fitness is. Reports from ESPN Brasil indicate that the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) continues to monitor Neymar’s progress closely following his long injury layoff.
The expectation had been for the forward to regain rhythm gradually at club level before re-entering international contention. The Italian manager has maintained a transparent condition for any recall: elite physical readiness. The ultimate evaluation will not occur in March; it will come in May.
That month has been set internally as the decisive checkpoint. By then, Ancelotti will determine whether Neymar is physically and technically prepared to compete at the level required for the World Cup. If he is, the door remains wide open. If not, he risks missing what would be his fourth World Cup appearance after 2014, 2018, and 2022. In essence, March belongs to assessment; May belongs to Neymar.
Neymar Jr. of Brazil celebrates scoring his side’s first goal with his teammate Lucas Paqueta .
Tactical priorities beyond the star
While public discourse remains fixed on Neymar, Ancelotti’s focus extends elsewhere. The staff is addressing structural uncertainties within the squad. Key questions remain in multiple departments: both full-back positions, depth behind central defenders Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhaes, cover for Bruno Guimaraes in midfield, and the overall attacking balance.
The March friendlies are designed to clarify these doubts. The coaching commission believes this window is better used to evaluate fringe profiles rather than reintegrate a player whose qualities are already well established. Neymar’s soccer identity is not under debate. His physical durability is.
As one internal assessment suggests, there is no urgency to “see how he fits.” The only variable is whether he can sustain the physical demands of modern international soccer.
As renewal talks simmer and interest from the Premier League grows louder, the Rossoneri face a delicate balancing act.
Christian Pulisic remains central to the present and future of Milan, yet uncertainty now surrounds his trajectory at the San Siro. As renewal talks simmer and interest from the Premier League grows louder, the Rossoneri face a delicate balancing act.
For much of his time in Italy, Pulisic has been viewed as a renaissance figure, rediscovering his confidence and consistency after an uneven spell in England. However, recent weeks have introduced doubt. Injuries, missed chances, and stalled contract discussions have shifted the narrative. The club believes in him. The coach trusts him. Yet results have complicated everything.
According to Corriere dello Sport, renewal discussions are underway as Pulisic approaches a crucial stage in his contract cycle. His current deal runs until 2027, and Milan retains contractual strength. However, the American is said to be evaluating his options carefully.
While the Rossoneri reportedly do not intend to sell, hesitation over an extension has created a sense of limbo. The decision is not purely financial; it is described as sporting, strategic, and personal. Abroad, Premier League sides are monitoring developments closely, with parallels drawn to the path once taken by Mohamed Salah: leaving England, flourishing in Italy, and returning stronger.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913
Allegri’s tactical dilemma
Manager Massimiliano Allegri remains a firm admirer of Pulisic, La Gazzetta dello Sport claims. The coach sees him as a tactical cornerstone: versatile, intelligent, and capable of unlocking tight defenses. Yet numbers show Milan’s attack has lacked consistency.
In 26 Serie A matches, Milan has scored 41 goals, the same as Como, fewer than Juventus, and 21 fewer than Inter. Pulisic and Rafael Leao were earmarked as the primary attacking duo. On paper, the combination promised pace, unpredictability, and creativity. In reality, injuries have disrupted continuity.
Since the summer, the American has battled ankle pain, a hamstring injury, and bursitis, while the Portuguese winger has struggled with a lingering groin issue. The pair have started together in only a handful of matches. In 377 shared league minutes, they have scored just once each. Though both sit on eight league goals, chemistry has not flourished.
Rafael Leao of AC Milan celebrates with teammate Christian Pulisic.
The plan to revive Pulisic
Behind the scenes, the Rossoneri intend to activate their option to extend Pulisic’s contract by an additional year, securing leverage while negotiations continue. More importantly, Allegri’s immediate focus is physical and tactical recovery, the report adds.
The American carried the attack during the first half of the campaign. However, he has not scored in 2026, and recent performances have reflected the physical toll of repeated injuries. Against Parma, missed opportunities reignited concern.
Allegri’s approach is twofold: restore Pulisic’s physical sharpness through tailored recovery management and recalibrate his tactical role to maximize efficiency rather than overload responsibility. Rather than forcing him into central striker duties, a role neither he nor Leao naturally embody, Milan is exploring structural adjustments that provide a true No.9 presence to shoulder the scoring burden.
Christian Pulisic (left) and Niclas Fullkrug (right)
Since the post-Ibrahimovic era, the absence of a dominant central striker has lingered. Olivier Giroud contributed, but not at the level of Lautaro Martinez or Victor Osimhen in recent Serie A seasons. Christopher Nkunku and Niclas Fullkrug have rotated without cementing authority. In short, Milan believe Pulisic thrives best with balance around him, not isolation.
AC Milan's Massimiliano Allegri and Christian Pulisic.
After a hefty debut in the 2026 MLS season, Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas made things clear over potential new signings to boost the squad around Lionel Messi.
Inter Miami began its 2026 MLS title defense on the wrong foot after LAFC handed it a resounding 3-0 defeat in Los Angeles. Following the disappointing start, co-owner Jorge Mas addressed the possibility of additional signings to strengthen the roster around Lionel Messi.
Jorge Mas attended an event hosted by FIFA to open a museum in Miami on Wednesday, and in comments relayed by José Armando, the Inter Miami executive was asked about further additions: “The transfer market is open and some things are being considered. I’m not anticipating any more signings.”
Mas then highlighted several notable arrivals. “I think (German) Berterame is a great signing for the club, and obviously the return of Tadeo (Allende). His visa was delayed, but I think we’ll see him at 100% within the next two weeks. Mateo Silvetti; we expect very good things this year from David Ayala and Yannick (Bright),” he added.
German Berterame of Inter Miami.
After several departures from last season, Inter Miami needed an aggressive winter window, and Mas believes it was nearly flawless: “We entered the winter window with a goal. I’d tell you we were pursuing seven players, and of those seven we were able to acquire six.“
In addition to the names mentioned, Inter Miami also finalized deals for Rocco Ríos Novo, Dayne St. Clair, Facundo Mura, Luis Barraza, Micael dos Santos, Sergio Reguilón, and Dániel Pintér from Inter Miami II. Even without formally closing the door on more moves, the club appears set to rely on this group for at least the early portion of the 2026 campaign.
Jorge Mas going all-in for 2026 season
Winning MLS Cup had been a primary objective for Inter Miami’s ownership since Messi’s arrival, and after lifting the trophy in 2025, the focus has shifted toward international success, specifically the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Despite heavy investment ahead of 2026, the 3-0 loss served as a wake-up call that the team has yet to rediscover the form it showed late last season.
Still, Mas expressed full confidence in the squad’s potential. “We’re very happy with the club’s roster. We aspire not only to win the league, but the Supporters’ Shield, Leagues Cup, Champions (Cup), and MLS Cup. We’re very satisfied,” the club co-owner stated.
Liverpool and Real Madrid could be planning a star swap involving Rodrygo Goes.
With just about three months remaining until the end of the 2025-26 season, the world’s top clubs are already planning their next moves. That includes major player signings and departures — something Real Madrid and Liverpool are reportedly working on. Rodrygo Goes could be part of a potential swap deal between the two clubs.
“Liverpool and Real Madrid have overlapping interests that could lead to a high-voltage exchange. Both clubs have key players who fit as complementary pieces in projects aiming to innovate without losing competitiveness,” Fichajes reported this week.
“Real Madrid continue to scout the market for a midfielder who can bring dynamism, scoring ability, and the capacity to break lines. In this scenario emerges Dominik Szoboszlai,” the report added, referring to the 25-year-old Hungarian star who has established himself as a key figure for the Reds in recent seasons.
This campaign, Szoboszlai has impressed on both ends of the pitch. He has started every match for Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League, Community Shield, and FA Cup, missing only two Premier League games due to suspension. So far, he has recorded 10 goals and 7 assists in 36 appearances.
Dominik Szoboszlai of Liverpool
This isn’t the first time Szoboszlai has been linked to a move to Real Madrid. Recently, Marco Rossi, manager of the Hungarian national team, revealed the midfielder’s desire to join the Spanish side. “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 told WinWin in an interview cited by Diario AS.
Rodrygo could be useful for Liverpool
The other piece of the puzzle is a potential move of Rodrygo to Liverpool. “At Anfield, his addition is seen as a strategic solution in case of a potential departure of Mohamed Salah,”Fichajes reported.
Speculation about Salah’s future has been ongoing in England, and his departure seems increasingly likely once this season concludes. One of the main reasons appears to be Arne Slot’s vision for the team, particularly regarding the role he expects Salah to play.
The Dutch coach seems to prefer building an attacking duo with Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike, which would leave limited room for a pure winger like Salah. In contrast, Rodrygo’s versatility, youth, and skill set could allow him to fit more naturally into this projected tactical system.
How much are Rodrygo and Szoboszlai worth?
If negotiations between Liverpool and Real Madrid move forward, the valuation of each player will be a key factor. While Rodrygo has a release clause of €1 billion, his actual market value is far lower. According to Transfermarkt, the Brazilian forward is valued at around €60 million (approximately $70 million).
Dominik Szoboszlai, on the other hand, currently appears to have a higher market value, boosted by his strong performance this season. The Liverpool midfielder is estimated by specialized websites at around $100 million.
Rodrygo Goes of Real Madrid looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26.
Hansi Flick referred to the repercussion of everything that happens with Barcelona, like substituting Lamine Yamal out.
A significant milestone awaits Hansi Flickas he approaches his 100th match in charge of Barcelona. Ahead of that mark, he spoke with the club’s media and addressed the impact of his decisions, including substituting Lamine Yamal during matches.
After managing Bayern Munich, Flick says the spotlight at Barcelona is on another level. According to him, everything that happens at the club, whether it is something a player says, something the manager says, or a tactical decision during a match, quickly becomes a major topic.
Flick said: “Everything that happens here, what a player or the manager says, or what we do generates noise outside. Everybody focuses on Barcelona. If I substitute Yamal, everyone is watching him. We know it. That’s how things are.”
Flick’s keys to make a comeback against Atletico Madrid
Barcelona face a demanding stretch. Saturday’s La Liga match against Villarreal is crucial in a tight race where every point could make the difference. At the same time, there is another major challenge coming on Tuesday.
Yamal plays almost every match for the team (David Ramos/Getty Images)
After a disastrous first leg in the Copa del Rey semifinal, when Atletico Madrid were four goals ahead at halftime, the task of overturning the result will not be easy. Flick, however, believes his players can respond, especially with the support of the fans.
Flick said: “It’s difficult but not impossible. We must believe we are capable of coming back. We must give everything or even more in those 90 minutes. We must fight for the team, the club and the fans. We must have them on our side. Since we returned to Camp Nou we haven’t lost a match. We must come out with a positive attitude to produce a comeback.”
The importance of playstyle
At Barcelona, winning is not the only priority. The way the team plays and how results are achieved matter deeply to those around the club. Flick understands that expectation, even when results are disappointing.
He said: “You don’t just have to win. It’s how you do it. Last season when we lost to Inter in the Champions League semifinals, we were all disappointed. But we were very proud of what we had done in those matches.”
Flick referred to various topics before his 100th match with Barcelona
Vinicius surpassed Neymar in an impressive milestone in the UEFA Champions League.
This week, Vinicius Junior was under the spotlight following his clash with Gianluca Prestianni during the first leg of the UEFA Champions League playoff between Real Madrid and Benfica. However, the Brazilian winger also made headlines for his performance on the ball, breaking a record previously held by Neymar.
With his late goal in Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Benfica at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Vinicius became the Brazilian player with the most goals in Champions League knockout-stage history. Vini reached 14 goals in those European elimination matches — a mark no other Brazilian had previously achieved.
He first scored in a knockout game against Liverpool in the quarterfinals of the 2020-21 season. The following year, he found the net again against the same opponent, delivering what was arguably the most important goal of his career: the lone strike in Real Madrid’s 1-0 win in the final. In 2024, he scored in another final, this time against Borussia Dortmund.
Vinicius’ rise in this ranking pushed Neymar into second place. The Santos star had held the record for most goals by a Brazilian in Champions League knockout matches, thanks to his time with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, with a total of 13.
Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid celebrates after scoring a goal.
Who are the top scorers in Champions League knockout stages?
Vinicius Junior’s numbers with Real Madrid are impressive, but they remain far from the historic marks set by some of the competition’s all-time greats. In fact, the Brazilian winger is not yet among the top 25 scorers in Champions League knockout-stage history.
The top spot, unsurprisingly, belongs to Cristiano Ronaldo, the competition’s all-time leading scorer. Ronaldo netted 67 goals in knockout matches — 18 more than Lionel Messi, who sits second with 49. Alfredo Di Stefano (49), Eusebio (47) and Ferenc Puskas (36) round out the top five.
Further down the list is the first player who still has an opportunity to add to his tally. Robert Lewandowski ranks sixth with 34 knockout-stage goals, tied with Karim Benzema and Gerd Muller. The next active player in Europe is Kylian Mbappe, who sits 12th with 24 goals.
Vinicius climbs the all-time Champions League scoring list
At just 25 years old, Vinicius Junior’s overall production is remarkable. Combining group-stage and knockout-stage matches, the Brazilian winger ranks among the top 30 scorers in UEFA Champions League history. With 32 goals, he is tied with Juventus legend David Trezeguet and Bayern Munich icon Arjen Robben.
Among players still active in European leagues, Vini ranks inside the top eight. Only Robert Lewandowski, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Mohamed Salah, Harry Kane, Antoine Griezmann and Edin Dzeko have scored more Champions League goals.
Martinique U20 play against Nicaragua U20 on Matchday 2 of the 2026 CONCACAF U20 Championship group stage. Fans in the United States can catch every minute of the action, with full kickoff times and broadcast information available for both TV and streaming options.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Martinique U20 vs Nicaragua U20 on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
Martinique U20 vs Nicaragua U20
WHAT
2026 CONCACAF U20 Championship
WHEN
8:00pm ET / 5:00pm PT • Thursday, February 26, 2026
Nicaragua U20 and Martinique U20 meet in a pivotal CONCACAF U20 Championship showdown, with both sides eager to use the tournament as a springboard for their national programs. While neither entered as a favorite, the stakes remain high—Martinique is chasing its best performance yet.
Meanwhile, Nicaragua is looking to build on recent momentum and showcase its rising talent on a major regional stage. With future stars ready to seize their moment, this matchup could deliver plenty of intensity and promise—don’t miss it.
More details on how to watch
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Ivan Toney is hell-bent on stopping Cristiano Ronaldo from making further Saudi Pro League history, and the English striker has sent a strong warning message to the Portuguese superstar.
Ivan Toney is hell-bent on stopping Cristiano Ronaldo from making further Saudi Pro League history, and the English striker has sent a strong warning message to the Portuguese superstar. As Al-Nassr and Al-Ahli push for supremacy, Cristiano Ronaldo and Ivan Toney are locked in a fierce duel for the Saudi Pro League Golden Boot, with the title race intensifying alongside their personal contest.
Ronaldo entered the 2025-26 campaign aiming to cement his dominance after already winning the Golden Boot in consecutive seasons. Toney, however, has emerged as a relentless challenger, threatening not only the Portuguese’s individual ambitions but also the balance of power at the top of the table.
The stakes are historic. Should Ronaldo finish as top scorer once again, he would become the first European player in Saudi Pro League history to win three consecutive Golden Boot awards. His numbers underline why such a feat seemed inevitable. In 2023-24, Ronaldo scored 35 goals in 31 matches. He followed that with 25 goals last season, and he currently sits on 21 goals from 21 games in the ongoing campaign. Even at 41, his output remains extraordinary.
Yet the margin for error has narrowed. A brief absence earlier in the season, reportedly linked to frustrations over transfer dealings, saw Al-Nassr’s captain miss two fixtures. In a race this tight, those missed matches could prove decisive.
Despite that, Ronaldo responded emphatically, scoring in key victories including a dominant 5-0 win over Al-Najma, where he converted from the penalty spot and even unveiled a new celebration, temporarily shelving his iconic “Siu.” Al-Nassr currently sits top of the table with 58 points, just two ahead of Al-Ahli on 56, as the 34-game season enters its decisive stretch.
What did Ivan Toney say?
If Ronaldo is chasing immortality, Ivan Toney is chasing belief, and he is brimming with it. The England international, speaking to talkSPORT, delivered a confident message that now echoes across the league: “Every time I step onto the pitch, I feel like I’m going to score, I’ve got that confidence at the moment,” Toney said.
He added: “But that’s always good, having a striker in a team that feels like it’s going to score goals and can score goals. And obviously, it’s helping at the moment, considering where we are in the table, so it’s good.”
Toney currently leads the scoring charts with 23 goals, two more than Ronaldo. His only blemish this season was a rare penalty miss, his first since April 2023, which could have pushed him even further ahead.
The 29-year-old’s form has been electric. He has scored three hat-tricks in his last seven matches, including a standout performance against Al-Najma. His sharp finishing, aerial strength, and clinical penalty-taking have transformed Al-Ahli into a genuine title contender.
Pressure mounts in three-horse race
The duel is not isolated. Julian Quinones of Al-Qadsiah remains close behind in the scoring standings, while Brendan Rodgers’ side sits on 53 points, capable of influencing the title outcome. Still, the spotlight remains firmly on Ronaldo and Toney.
Julian Quiñones #16 of Mexico
Ronaldo brings unmatched longevity. Since turning 30, he has scored more than 500 career goals, surpassing his tally from his younger years, a statistic almost unheard of in modern football. He is also chasing the mythical 1,000 career goal milestone, sitting just 36 away.
Toney, meanwhile, sees the Saudi Pro League as both a proving ground and a pathway back to international prominence, with ambitions of representing England at the 2026 World Cup.
A fascinating comparison has resurfaced: Ronaldo vs. Mbappe in their first 90 games for the club, and the numbers reveal a striking truth.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe have both worn the white shirt of Real Madrid with the weight of history on their shoulders. One arrived as the most expensive player the game had ever seen; the other stepped into the Spanish capital as a global icon expected to define a new era. Now, as debates rage across social media and fan forums, a fascinating comparison has resurfaced: Ronaldo vs. Mbappe in their first 90 games for the club, and the numbers reveal a striking truth.
At first glance, Mbappe’s start feels electric, almost untouchable. Yet beneath the surface, the statistical benchmark set by Ronaldo more than a decade ago still stands firm. The mystery lies not in whether Mbappe has been brilliant — he has — but in just how high Ronaldo set the bar during his own opening chapter in Madrid.
After years of speculation, near-transfers, and dramatic twists, the France captain finally made his long-awaited move to the Spanish capital. The spotlight was immediate and intense. The Santiago Bernabeu expected fireworks, and the French superstar delivered.
In his first 90 appearances, Mbappe has produced 82 goals and 10 assists, totaling 92 direct goal contributions. For a player adjusting to a new league, new tactical demands, and the unique pressure of Madrid’s shirt, that return is nothing short of extraordinary.
His acceleration has shredded defensive lines. His intelligent movement between defenders has created chaos. Whether curling shots into the far corner or blasting them past stranded goalkeepers, the 27-year-old has ignited the Bernabeu with moments of brilliance. Few debuts in Madrid’s history have felt this explosive, and yet, comparison is unavoidable.
The Ronaldo benchmark revealed
Here is where the debate intensifies. When Cristiano Ronaldo arrived in 2009, he carried the expectations of a record-breaking transfer and the burden of dethroning Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona. The rivalry with Lionel Messi was at fever pitch. Every match felt like a referendum on greatness.
And Ronaldo responded with numbers that still feel surreal. In his first 90 games for Real Madrid, Ronaldo registered 86 goals and 24 assists, a staggering 110 goal contributions. Even more remarkably, he achieved this while scoring just 13 penalties, compared to Mbappe’s 19 in the same span. The contrast sharpens when laid bare:
Mbappe (first 90 games)
82 goals
10 assists
92 goal contributions
19 penalties scored
Ronaldo (first 90 games)
86 goals
24 assists
110 goal contributions
13 penalties scored
Ronaldo outscored and out-assisted Mbappé in his first 90 Madrid games — while taking fewer penalties 👀🔥 pic.twitter.com/v1AhNDVKAW
The difference in assists is particularly eye-catching. Ronaldo was not merely a finisher; he was a creator, a transition engine, an aerial threat, and a long-range marksman rolled into one. His influence stretched far beyond the penalty area. While penalties are part of the game and require composure, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s lower tally from the spot underscores just how devastating he was from open play.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid.
Newcastle United are interested in signing Zeki Celik from AS Roma at the end of the season.
According to a report from Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport, Newcastle are hoping to secure his signature at the end of the season, and it remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done.
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Newcastle eye bargain move for Zeki Celik
The player will be out of contract in the summer, and the 29-year-old could be a very useful acquisition for the Premier League club. They need to find a quality long-term replacement for Kiran Trippier, and the Roma star could be ideal for them. He has the quality and experience to thrive in the Premier League, and he could make an immediate impact in English football.
The opportunity to move to the Premier League will be exciting for the 29-year-old defender, and it remains to be seen whether he is willing to join Newcastle.
Zeki Celik of Turkiye REACTS during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Spain and Türkiye at Estadio de La Cartuja on November 18, 2025 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
They are one of the wealthiest clubs in the world, and they could offer him a lucrative contract. The Turkish international is demanding wages of €4 million per season, and Newcastle certainly have the finances to meet them. In addition, they have an ambitious project, and he could be attracted to the idea of joining them. They managed to win a domestic trophy last season, and they will look to establish themselves as a top club.
Meanwhile, the defender has played alongside Sven Botman at Lille, and it will be interesting to see whether the Newcastle defender can convince his former teammate to join the club in the summer.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin in action for Leeds against Fulham. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
There is no doubt that the former Everton striker would have been a bargain acquisition for the London club. Signing a player of his quality on a free transfer should have been a no-brainer for West Ham.
Meanwhile, Nuno Espirito Santo quickly identified the need for goal scorers upon his arrival, and West Ham has signed Taty Castellanos and Pablo in January. It will be interesting to see if they can secure safety in the Premier League. They are currently fighting for survival in the top flight. A quality striker from the start of the season would not have left them in this position.
Leeds United attacker Joe Gelhardt is currently on loan at Hull city and he is expected to leave the club permanently in the summer.
The Tigers will look to sign him permanently, and Leeds United are prepared to sanction his departure for a fee of around £3-5 million, as per TEAMtalk. The 23-year-old does not have a future with them, and it makes sense for the Premier League club to sell him permanently.
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Joe Gelhardt needs to move on
Meanwhile, the player will look to sort out his long-term future as well and focus on his football. He has done quite well for the Tigers during his loan with them, and joining them permanently would be ideal for him. At 23, he needs to play regularly in order to fulfil his potential. Returning to Leeds United would not make any sense for him, especially when he is unlikely to get opportunities with them.
It will be interesting to see if Hull City is willing to pay the asking price for the talented striker. He could be a long-term asset for them, and he could easily justify the investment in future. It could be a deal worth doing for them. The 23-year-old has 11 goals to his name in the Championship this season.
Joe Gelhardt of Leeds United looks on. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Leeds should look to bring in a quality striker at the end of the season as well. Selling their fringe players will help them raise funds for their own signings. They are currently fighting for survival in the Premier League, and it will be interesting to see if they can stay up. They have a talented team, and they will be desperate to establish themselves as Premier League regulars.
Yacine Titraoui has been linked with a move to the Premier League, and Wolves are keen on securing his signature.
The 22-year-old Algerian International has done quite well for Royal Charleroi SC. His performances have attracted the attention of Premier League clubs, and it will be interesting to see if Wolves can get the deal done.
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Where will Yacine Titraoui end up?
The player will cost around €8 million, but a move is far from complete. The midfielder is currently waiting to see whether Wolves can stay up in the Premier League, per AfricaFoot. It is unlikely that he will join a club in the championship next season. Wolves are currently at the bottom of the Premier League table, and they are highly likely to go down at the end of the season. It will certainly affect their ability to attract quality players in the summer.
Meanwhile, a report from AfricaFoot has already confirmed that Leeds United and Sunderland are also interested in the player. It remains to be seen whether they are prepared to make a move for him in the summer. The 22-year-old midfielder is a useful acquisition for both clubs, and the reported asking price is quite reasonable. He will only improve with coaching and experience, and he could easily justify the investment in future.
The Algerian has the physicality and technical attributes to thrive in the Premier League, and he could be a very useful acquisition for Leeds or Sunderland. Both clubs are looking to cement their place in the Premier League next season, and they are far more likely to remain in the top flight than Wolves.
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Davide Frattesi asking price revealed
According to a report from SportsBoom, the player will cost £30 million in the summer, and it will be interesting to see if any club is willing to pay up. Tottenham have been watching the player closely, and it remains to be seen whether they are prepared to make a move for him. They could use more quality in the middle of the park, and the Italian could be a useful acquisition for the right price.
Frattesi will add drive, energy and creativity in the middle of the park. He could be a very useful acquisition for Nottingham Forest as well. However, they are fighting for survival in the Premier League and must stay in the top flight to attract players of his quality.
Both Tottenham and Nottingham Forest have the financial muscle to pay the asking price for him. However, he is unwanted at the Italian club, and any interested party will look to sign him for a knockdown price. It remains to be seen how the situation develops over the next few months.
Davide Frattesi of Inter Milan (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The player is reportedly keen on a move to the Premier League, and he would consider a transfer in the summer if the right opportunity presents itself.
Spurs have had a disappointing season, and they need to plug the gaps in the team in the summer. A quality midfielder could be a game-changing acquisition for them. The 26-year-old Italian has the technical attributes to thrive in the Premier League, and he could be a quality option for the North London club.
Atletico Madrid are interested in signing Bernardo Silva in the summer transfer window, according to TuttoJuve. The Portuguese star, who can operate as a winger or as an attacking midfielder, is out of contract at Manchester City at the end of the season and is available on a free transfer. TuttoJuve has reported that Barcelona […]
Atletico Madrid are interested in signing Bernardo Silva in the summer transfer window, according to TuttoJuve. The Portuguese star, who can operate as a winger or as an attacking midfielder, is out of contract at Manchester City at the end of the season and is available on a free transfer. TuttoJuve has reported that Barcelona […]
Atletico Madrid are interested in signing Bernardo Silva in the summer transfer window, according to TuttoJuve. The Portuguese star, who can operate as a winger or as an attacking midfielder, is out of contract at Manchester City at the end of the season and is available on a free transfer. TuttoJuve has reported that Barcelona […]
Andre Onana regrets leaving Manchester United for Trabzonspor in the summer of 2025, according to Fichajes. The 29-year-old Cameroon international joined the Turkish Super Lig club on loan from the Premier League outfit for the 2025/26 campaign. However, Man Utd do not plan to bring Onana back into the fold and are looking to offload […]
Napoli are in contact with Scott McTominay over signing a new contract, according to Fabrizio Romano. The well-known and well-respected Italian journalist has claimed that there is nothing advanced in regard to a move back to Manchester United. Romano said on his YouTube channel: “On Scott McTominay, at the moment my understanding is that Napoli […]
Frenkie de Jong scared everybody in Barcelona's latest training session.
Barcelona was ready to enter the most important part of the season with their best team. With the midfield not having the ideal setup because of several injuries, they now appear forced to prepare for the match against Villarreal in La Liga without Frenkie de Jong.
The Dutch midfielder could not finish Thursday morning’s training session with the rest of the squad, according to Marca. His problem was initially reported as a muscle issue in his thigh. It was later confirmed to be a strain in the distal hamstring of the right leg that will sideline him for five to six weeks.
This comes at a very bad time for manager Hansi Flick, who will be without him for key matches. His absence for Saturday against Villarreal and for the Copa del Rey semifinal on Tuesday against Atletico Madrid has already been confirmed, and his availability for the Champions League Round of 16 also appears highly doubtful.
Barcelona’s midfield situation
Injuries never come at a good time for players. However, a team can often cope if injuries are staggered rather than clustered. The good news for Barcelona may be seeing more minutes from a young midfield duo who could see the field soon.
❗️Medical report
First-team player Frenkie de Jong sustained an injury to the distal biceps of his right leg during this morning’s training session.
Medical tests have confirmed that the expected recovery period will be approximately five to six weeks. pic.twitter.com/2irBhMoAG2
Pedri may be the ideal player to step in if Frenkie is sidelined for a while. The Spanish midfielder, who missed about a month with an injury, returned last Sunday for roughly 30 minutes and could begin to get more minutes as he regains fitness.
The other player fans have missed is Gavi, who has been out for most of the season after an arthroscopy to repair a meniscus. He has rejoined partial training since last week and, even if he needs a few more matches to return to full strength, he would be a valuable addition when available.
Barcelona’s hard challenges ahead
The Champions League round of 16 may be the toughest immediate test, with the opponent being Chelsea or Newcastle. Locally, though, the obstacles are just as difficult and rotation to rest players may not be realistic.
Villarreal represent a genuine threat as the third-place team in La Liga. With only a one-point margin, a draw is not an acceptable result. The Copa del Rey semifinal against Atletico Madrid is another steep challenge after the first-leg 4-0 defeat that Barcelona will need to erase next week.
Inter Miami and Independiente del Valle are clashing in a postponed friendly in Puerto Rico, with huge expectations from local fans to see Lionel Messi in action.
Inter Miami have traveled to Puerto Rico to face Independiente del Valle on Thursday, February 26, at Juan Ramón Loubriel Stadium. With the 2026 Major League Soccer season already underway, fans are eager to see Lionel Messi making his first appearance on the island.
The Herons enter the match after suffering a heavy 3-0 defeat in their MLS opener against LAFC, beginning their title-defense campaign on the wrong foot. Independiente del Valle, meanwhile, have also had their schedule interrupted. The Ecuadorian first division kicked off last weekend, with El Negriazul coming off a 2–0 win over Guayaquil City in their opener.
The game was originally scheduled for Friday, February 13, as part of the Champions Tour before the MLS season began. However, Messi’s hamstring injury against Barcelona SC in Guayaquil disrupted those plans, forcing both clubs to find a new date, with Feb. 26 ultimately selected.
Is Lionel Messi playing?
After the postponement, Lionel Messi will be starting the game against Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico on the subs bench. Following Thursday’s training session, which was open to fans, head coach Mascherano decided to leave the Argentina star out of the starting lineup.
Rodrigo de Paul (L), Lionel Messi (C) and Luis Suarez (R) of Inter Miami wave during a training session at Estadio Juan Ramón Loubriel.
In his pre-match press conference, head coach Javier Mascherano explained that his plan is to rotate minutes, especially for players who have seen limited action so far: “The match gives us the opportunity to give minutes to guys who perhaps haven’t seen as much action, both during the preseason and in our last league match.“
The Argentine manager also has one eye on the upcoming MLS fixture against Orlando City on March 1. “We’re going to try to get everyone on the pitch. We need to get minutes for the entire squad, while also being careful since we have a very important match against Orlando in just 72 hours,” he stated.
“Regardless of the loss the other day, for those of us who have been here at Inter Miami for a while, the next game is always the most important—and it’s always the one you have to win,” Mascherano concluded, emphasizing that the mentality remains unchanged despite the uneven start.
Confirmed lineups for Inter Miami and Independiente del Valle
Inter Miami’s confirmed lineup (4-4-2): Rocco Rios Novo; Facundo Mura, Ian Fray, Gonzalo Luján, Ezequiel Abadia-Reda; David Ruiz, Yannick Bright, Alexander Shaw, Santiago Morales; Luis Suárez, Daniel Pinter. Head coach: Javier Mascherano.
The showdown between Lionel Messi’s Argentina and Lamine Yamal’s Spain in the Finalissima will be played in front of a packed house in Qatar.
Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal will headline one of the most intriguing matchups leading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Argentina and Spain are set to meet in March in the Finalissima, and the game is already generating massive anticipation around the world.
Tickets for the Argentina-Spain clash, scheduled for Friday, March 27, went on sale this week, and fans snapped them up in just two hours. As a result, Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar, will be at full capacity, with more than 88,000 spectators expected in attendance.
The excitement surrounding the Finalissima is fueled by several factors. For starters, it features the reigning champions of South America and Europe, who also occupy the top two spots in the FIFA rankings based on their performances in recent years. That status makes them leading contenders to lift the World Cup this summer in North America.
It will also be a compelling individual battle. On one side stands Lionel Messi; on the other, Lamine Yamal — the global icon nearing the twilight of his career against the young prodigy widely viewed as a potential heir to his throne. Adding another layer to the storyline are the similarities in their playing styles and the shared distinction of wearing Barcelona’s iconic No. 10 jersey.
Argentina are the reigning Finalissima champions.
The next challenges for Argentina and Spain
The Finalissima will mark the first official match of the year for both national teams and the start of a demanding road to the World Cup. After facing Argentina, Spain will remain in Qatar for another friendly just three days later against Egypt.
In the weeks leading up to their debut in North America, Luis De La Fuente’s squad will host Iraq on June 4 in a home send-off match, followed by another friendly against Peru in Mexico on June 8. That will serve as Spain’s final tune-up before opening its World Cup campaign against Cape Verde one week later.
Argentina, meanwhile, will face Qatar in Doha on March 31, four days after the Finalissima. In June, Lionel Scaloni will reconvene his squad and finalize the 26-man roster for the FIFA tournament, along with two friendlies in the days leading up to their opener against Algeria, with opponents yet to be determined.
The March FIFA break will be crucial
The Finalissima between Spain and Argentina will be one of the marquee matchups of the March international break — but not the only one. Several other national teams will be competing for an equally important objective: securing their place in the World Cup.
The intercontinental playoffs will take place in Mexico, where two spots will be up for grabs. New Caledonia, Jamaica and the Democratic Republic of the Congo will battle for one berth, while Bolivia, Suriname and Iraq will compete for the other.
At the same time, Europe will determine its final four qualifiers. Italy, Denmark, Turkey and Ukraine will vie for one spot; Poland, Wales, the Czech Republic and Slovakia for another; Ireland, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo will compete in their own path; and Sweden, Romania, North Macedonia and Northern Ireland will contest the final berth.
Spain's Lamine Yamal and Argentina's Lionel Messi.
Portuguese International midfielder Joao Neves has been linked with a move away from PSG, and he is a target for Liverpool and Manchester City.
According to SportsBoom, PSG will demand €160 million for the player in the summer. Real Madrid is also monitoring his situation, and it will be interesting to see where he ends up.
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Liverpool could use Joao Neves
Liverpool could use more creativity and control in the middle of the park, but it seems unlikely that they will pay the asking price for the Portuguese international. He could become the most expensive midfielder in the world if he moves to the Premier League.
Liverpool need to improve multiple areas of the team in the summer, and they are unlikely to be able to afford him.
Joao Neves and Vitinha in action for PSG. (Photo by Catherine Steenkeste/Getty Images for Qatar Airways)
On the other hand, Real Madrid are also interested in the player. They have the financial muscle to pay a premium for him, but the €160 million asking price could be a problem for any club. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
The midfielder has been exceptional for PSG, and he has a contract with them until 2029. They will not want to lose a player of his quality anytime soon. It is no surprise that they are holding out for an absurd fee for him.
The opportunity to play in the Premier League could be appealing to the Portuguese international, but PSG will need to be reasonable with their asking price.
Chelsea have been urged to make a move for a quality striker like Igor Thiago.
They invested in Liam Delap and Joao Pedro at the start of the season. However, Delap has been underwhelming, scoring only one Premier League goal this season.
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Chelsea urged to sign Igor Thiago
Chelsea has been told to bring in a quality alternative, and it remains to be seen whether they decide to make a move for Brentford Striker. Thiago has been in exceptional form this season. The 24-year-old Brazilian is the second top scorer in the Premier League with 17 goals.
Former Chelsea star Pat Nevin believes that the Blues should look to bring in a Premier League-proven striker, and the Brazilian would be ideal. Thiago has shown his quality in the English top-flight, and he will be able to make an immediate impact in the Premier League as well.
He said via TEAMtalk: “In actual fact, how many in the world can you look at and say, right, he’s a stick-on to get 15 or 20 a season, and you’re young and you’re coming through? It just doesn’t exist, really. So it’s a tough one for them, but they’ll keep trying.
“Given the route they’re trying just now – if there was one that was closest, it would probably be Igor Thiago. Because you look at that and think, right, okay, you’re scoring in the Premier League, and you are only 24.
“A lot of the problem with a lot of the other players that you get — and this isn’t just Chelsea, by the way. This seriously isn’t just Chelsea. This is Manchester United as well. They look around and think, yes, they scored a lot of goals in Germany or Italy. That’s different. That’s totally different; it doesn’t always translate.
“So somebody who is currently doing it in the Premier League, maybe he’s the one.”
Igor Thiago in action for Brentford against Arsenal (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
There is no doubt that Delap has been underwhelming, and Chelsea need a better striker if they want to fight for major trophies. It will be interesting to see if they can sign the Brazilian in the summer. The opportunity to join Chelsea will be exciting for the Brentford star.
He has been outstanding in the Premier League, and he is likely to cost a lot of money. It remains to be seen whether Chelsea is prepared to break the Bank for him.
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Pape Gueye to replace Casemiro?
The Brazilian is expected to leave Manchester United in the summer, and they will need to replace him properly. Signing the Senegal International could prove to be a wise decision. He has been a very important player for the Spanish club, and Gueye was excellent for his country during the AFCON as well.
The opportunity to join Manchester United will be exciting for him. It would be a major step up in his career. He would get to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world, and he will look to fight for trophies with them. Gueye has been described as an “important” player for Villarreal.
Pape Gueye of Villarreal battles for the ball with Tyrhys Dolan of RCD Espanyol de Barcelona during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Villarreal CF and RCD Espanyol de Barcelona at Estadio de la Ceramica on February 09, 2026 in Villarreal, Spain. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
Manchester United need a player with his skill set, and it remains to be seen whether they can wrap up the move quickly. They have the financial muscle to convince Villarreal.
The 27-year-old midfielder will help Manchester United improve defensively in the middle of the park. He will help with the ball back for his team and protect the defensive unit. The player is at the peak of his career, and this is the right time for him to take on a new challenge. It will be interesting to see if he can make an immediate impact in the Premier League next season.
Andre Onana regrets leaving Manchester United for Trabzonspor in the summer of 2025, according to Fichajes. The 29-year-old Cameroon international joined the Turkish Super Lig club on loan from the Premier League outfit for the 2025/26 campaign. However, Man Utd do not plan to bring Onana back into the fold and are looking to offload […]
Napoli are in contact with Scott McTominay over signing a new contract, according to Fabrizio Romano. The well-known and well-respected Italian journalist has claimed that there is nothing advanced in regard to a move back to Manchester United. Romano said on his YouTube channel: “On Scott McTominay, at the moment my understanding is that Napoli […]
Al Hilal star Ruben Neves has reportedly inspired Cristiano Ronaldo's new 'basketball' celebration after his jab to Al Nassr.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic “Siu” celebration became a global phenomenon that spread beyond soccer into other sports. Recently, however, the Portuguese forward unveiled a completely different celebration that resembled a basketball slam dunk, a gesture that was reportedly inspired after Al Hilal star Ruben Neves appeared to take a jab at Al Nassr.
With Al Nassr traveling to face Al Najma on Wednesday, Ronaldo had a prime opportunity to add to his goal tally against the team sitting at the bottom of the Saudi Pro League standings. He did just that in the 7th minute, stepping up to take a penalty that he blasted into the top corner for the opener.
After scoring the game’s first goal, Ronaldo ran toward the corner to celebrate, but instead of performing his trademark “Siu,” he opted for something new. Looking toward the sideline, he mimicked a basketball-style slam dunk motion with his right hand.
Al Nassr went on to cruise past Al Najma with a dominant 5-0 victory, though Ronaldo didn’t score again. Still, much of the postgame attention centered on what might have inspired the celebration change, with local reports suggesting Neves may have played a role.
Now the standings have shifted, with Al Nassr sitting first in the SPL and Al Hilal dropping to third after two straight draws. Following a 1-1 result against Al Taawoun on Tuesday, Neves spoke candidly about the league’s competitiveness:
“I think we need to value this league because it’s one of the leagues in the world where four teams are fighting for the title. We’re almost in March and there are four teams fighting for the title. It’s been very competitive, but we need everyone to be in the same level, because what we see in some games and what we see in others is completely different,” the Portuguese midfielder stated.
He then added another pointed remark, without naming a specific club, suggesting that some teams have recently benefited from officiating decisions. “We want all to play the same games. I’ve seen players playing almost basketball and volleyball inside the box, where the referees go to the screen and still don’t give the penalty,” he stated in a post-match interview.
Local reports interpreted Neves’ comments as a reference to Al Nassr, who played the following day. Shortly after hearing the remarks from his Portugal national team teammate, Ronaldo appeared to respond subtly with the basketball-style celebration, widely seen as a playful nod to Neves’ quote.
Cristiano Ronaldo (L) of Al Nassr of Ruben Neves (R) of Al Hilal.
Chelsea are interested in signing the Nottingham Forest defender Murillo during the summer transfer window.
They will face competition from Liverpool for his signature, but Chelsea are currently leading the race. The report from TEAMtalk claims that Arsenal, Manchester United and Tottenham are also monitoring the 23-year-old Brazilian defender.
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Murillo asking price revealed
He’s likely to cost around £60-70 million in the summer. It will be interesting to see where he ends up. Chelsea are showing “strong and serious” interest in signing the South American. They need to tighten up at the back, and a quality central defender will be a priority for them heading into the summer transfer window.
Meanwhile, Liverpool need a quality defender like Murillo as well. Ibrahima Konate will be out of contract in the summer, and they need to replace him. Signing the Brazilian defender could prove to be a step in the right direction. It will be interesting to see if they are willing to spend that kind of money on the player.
Murillo of Nottingham Forest in action (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Murillo has proven himself in the Premier League, and there is no doubt that he’s ready to join a bigger club now. His representatives are currently exploring a move to a top-six team. It remains to be seen where he ends up. The asking price might seem expensive right now, but the player is young and could justify the investment in the future.
Chelsea or Liverpool will be attractive destinations for the young defender, and it remains to be seen where he ends up. He will look to join a club. He will be able to compete at a high-level regularly and fight for trophies.
Manchester United are interested in signing the Gambian defender Sedi Kinteh from Tromso.
According to a report from Italian publication Corriere dello Sport, Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox are hoping to sign the 19-year-old defender at the end of the season. He could prove to be a quality long-term acquisition for the Premier League club, and it remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done.
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They need more depth and quality in the central defensive unit. Harry Maguire is in the twilight stages of his career, and Kinteh could be the ideal long-term replacement. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United come forward with an official proposal to sign the defender at the end of the season.
JUST IN: United are aggressively pursuing 19-year-old Gambian centre-back Abubacarr Sedi Kinteh from Norwegian club Tromsø IL as a long-term defensive investment.
Abubacarr Sedi Kinteh has strong decision-making, duel-winning ability, and aerial prowess, plus 1 cap for… pic.twitter.com/JcObebLjFm
Tromso will not want to lose the player easily, but they could be powerless to stop him from leaving if there is a suitable offer on the table. The 19-year-old is likely to be attracted to the idea of joining Manchester United as well, and he is likely to have his head if there is a concrete proposal from the Red Devils.
The opportunity to move to the Premier League will be exciting for the young defender. He will want to play regularly at the highest level, and the move to England could help him improve further and fulfil his potential.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are also interested in the defender. They need to tighten up at the back, and the 19-year-old would be a long-term investment. They could groom him into an important first-team player.
Liverpool are hoping to sign the Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga at the end of the season.
According to reports (h/t Football365), they would be prepared to offer €100 million in order to sign the player. Real Madrid will find it difficult to ignore the offer if it is presented. The report claims that Liverpool are looking to rejuvenate their midfield unit and they are looking to bring in players who will add stamina, intensity and technical ability.
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The French International could be the ideal acquisition for them. He can operate as a central midfielder, a defensive midfielder, or a defender. His versatility makes him an attractive option for the Premier League champions.
The arrival of the French International could allow Ryan Gravenberch to operate with more freedom. The Netherlands International has been used as a defensive midfielder, but he is better suited to central midfield.
It will be interesting to see if Liverpool comes forward with an official proposal in the coming months. They need to improve the team if they want to win trophies. Signing the Real Madrid star could prove to be the ideal acquisition for them. He has shown his quality in La Liga and with his country. There is no doubt that he has the physicality and technical attributes for English football. He will look to make an immediate impact in the Premier League if the transfer goes through.
Real Madrid need to improve multiple areas of their team in the summer, and turning down €100 million for the French International will be difficult for them. It remains to be seen how the situation develops over the next few weeks.
Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Archie Gray is reportedly a target for Real Madrid.
According to reports (h/t Tribuna), the player will cost around €60 million. Tottenham would be open to negotiating his departure if the asking price is met.
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The 19-year-old is a phenomenal talent with a bright future, and he has already been a very useful first-team player for Tottenham. He is quite young, and he will only improve with coaching and experience. Paul Merson claimed that the midfielder “turns up every week”.
Gray has all the tools to develop into a top-class player for Tottenham. Selling him could prove to be a mistake for them. They are looking to build a team for the future, and they need to keep their best young players.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid are looking to add more depth in the middle of the park, and the 19-year-old could be a long-term acquisition for them. They have the financial resources to pay €60 million for the young midfielder, and it will be interesting to see how the situation unfolds.
The asking price might seem expensive right now, but the player could justify the investment in the long-term. The opportunity to play for Real Madrid will be exciting for him as well. It will be interesting to see if the club comes forward with an official proposal at the end of the season.
It has been a disastrous season for Tottenham, and they need to improve the team in the summer. Losing their key players would be a huge blow. It would send the wrong message about their ambitions. The club has often been criticised for their lack of ambition in the transfer market, and selling a promising young player like Gray will only further disappoint the fans.
As Al-Nassr surges to the top of the Saudi Pro League and Al-Hilal attempts to keep pace, the rivalry between the two former Real Madrid icons has taken on a new dimension, as the balance of power may be shifting at a decisive moment in the season.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema are once again locked in a title battle in Saudi Arabia, but this time with different clubs. As Al-Nassr surges to the top of the Saudi Pro League and Al-Hilal attempts to keep pace, the rivalry between the two former Real Madrid icons has taken on a new dimension, as the balance of power may be shifting at a decisive moment in the season.
Ronaldo’s form has been electric, while Benzema had only just begun to impose himself in blue. Now, circumstances off the pitch threaten to influence the race as much as performances on it. After brief internal friction and reports of dressing-room tension, including a short-lived team boycott, Ronaldo responded in the only way he knows how: with goals.
The Portuguese forward returned to score in three consecutive matches, including a penalty in a commanding 5-0 victory over Al-Najma that sent Al-Nassr back to the summit. The league leader now sits on 58 points from 23 games, with just one defeat all season, holding a narrow advantage over its closest challengers.
Ronaldo’s latest strike marked his 21st goal of the campaign, bringing him to 95 league goals in Saudi Arabia, just five shy of joining an exclusive group of only four players to reach 100 in the competition. Across his legendary career, Ronaldo now stands on 965 total goals, leaving him 35 away from the historic 1,000 mark. His relentless output has reinforced Al-Nassr’s belief that silverware is within reach.
What did Al-Hilal say about Benzema’s injury?
In contrast, Al-Hilal has been dealt a setback at the worst possible time. The club released an official statement confirming that Benzema suffered an adductor injury in training. As the Blue Waves stated, “Karim Benzema will be out for a period ranging from 10 to 15 days due to a groin injury.”
The 38-year-old forward underwent thorough medical examinations before the diagnosis was confirmed. His absence rules him out of crucial fixtures, including the Saudi Pro League clashes against Al-Shabab and Al-Najma, and the first leg of the AFC Champions League Elite Round of 16 against Al-Sadd, as per Foot Africa.
The timing is critical. Simone Inzaghi’s side has slipped to third place in the standings, three points behind Al-Nassr, after consecutive draws against Al-Ittihad and Al-Taawoun. Momentum, once firmly in its grasp, has begun to fade.
What this means for Ronaldo and Al-Nassr
Before the injury, Benzema had made an immediate impact following his winter move, scoring a hat-trick and providing an assist against Al-Okhdood. However, he remained scoreless in subsequent appearances as the club’s form dipped.
Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo
For Ronaldo and Al-Nassr, the situation represents a clear opportunity. While Benzema works toward recovery, Ronaldo continues his relentless march toward both personal and collective milestones. The Saudi Pro League has become the latest stage for two former Real Madrid teammates to duel for supremacy. This time, however, it is not about Champions League nights in Europe — it is about dominance in a rapidly evolving soccer landscape.
Karim Benzema (left) and Cristiano Ronaldo (right)
Real Madrid booked their place in the Champions League last 16 as Vinicius Junior was on target during Los Blancos’ 2-1 win over Benfica in the second leg of their play-off tie. Vinicius’ goal from the first leg had already put Madrid ahead in the tie, and the Brazilian netted again in the 80th minute […]
Few stories in modern European football have captured the imagination quite like the rise of Bodø/Glimt. A club once known mainly to Norwegian football followers has now erupted onto the Champions League stage, stunning some of Europe’s heaviest hitters and rewriting expectations for what an underdog can achieve. Their 2025/26 campaign has become more than […]
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that both Micky van de Ven and Alessandro Bastoni could be on the move in the summer transfer window. The well-known and well-respected Italian journalist has claimed that while Netherlands international central defender Van de Ven could leave Tottenham, Italy international centre-back Bastoni could severe his ties with Inter. Romano said […]
Ahead of their Premier League clash at Elland Road on Saturday, Leeds manager Daniel Farke had some very nice things to say about Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola. To be fair, his words are hard to argue against. “He is probably the manager who has influenced and inspired the game, and also so many managers, […]
A German agent has said that he wants Florian Wirtz to leave Liverpool and join Real Madrid in the future. Volker Struth, who leads German agency Sport 360, has revealed that he was trying to convince Madrid president Florentino Perez to sign Wirtz in the summer of 2025 before the Germany international attacking midfielder joined […]
Liverpool look to strengthen their top‑four ambitions on Saturday afternoon when they welcome relegation‑threatened West Ham to Anfield. The visitors arrive desperate for revenge after falling 2–0 to the Reds at the London Stadium three months ago, while Arne Slot’s men aim to extend their momentum in the Champions League chase. Liverpool Liverpool’s league campaign […]
Ajax winger Mika Godts has been urged by De Telegraaf’s football editor, Valentijn Driessen, not to join Liverpool in the summer transfer window, should the defending Premier League champions come calling for him. Driessen said about Godts on the Kick-off podcast, as relayed by Voetbal Primeur: “He’s Ajax’s best player right now. “But he squandered a golden opportunity […]
Real Madrid have no plans to sell Eduardo Camavinga in the summer transfer window, according to Fabrizio Romano. There have been rumours that Manchester United want to sign Camavinga, with the Premier League club looking at the France international midfielder as a replacement for Casemiro, who will leave Old Trafford at the end of the […]
Real Madrid have no plans to sell Aurelien Tchouameni to Chelsea in the summer transfer window, according to Fabrizio Romano. The well-known and well-respected Italian journalist has also dismissed speculation that Chelsea are keen on the France international midfielder. Romano said on his YouTube channel: “No, at the moment, I am not aware of anything […]
Barcelona have been offered the chance to sign Ben White from Arsenal in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Barcelona, who won La Liga last season, have ‘received a formal offer from Mikel Arteta’ to ‘acquire the services’ of White. White is struggling for […]
Juventus are interested in signing Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. AC Milan are also said to be keen on a deal for the Brazil international striker. The Spanish media outlet has claimed that Jesus is ready to leave Arsenal at the end of the season. Viktor Gyokeres is […]
Marc Guiu wants to leave Chelsea at the end of the season, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Guiu, a former Barcelona striker, is not happy with his current situation at Chelsea and has asked to leave the Premier League club in the summer transfer window. Guiu has […]
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that both Micky van de Ven and Alessandro Bastoni could be on the move in the summer transfer window. The well-known and well-respected Italian journalist has claimed that while Netherlands international central defender Van de Ven could leave Tottenham, Italy international centre-back Bastoni could severe his ties with Inter. Romano said […]
A German agent has said that he wants Florian Wirtz to leave Liverpool and join Real Madrid in the future. Volker Struth, who leads German agency Sport 360, has revealed that he was trying to convince Madrid president Florentino Perez to sign Wirtz in the summer of 2025 before the Germany international attacking midfielder joined […]
Real Madrid have no plans to sell Eduardo Camavinga in the summer transfer window, according to Fabrizio Romano. There have been rumours that Manchester United want to sign Camavinga, with the Premier League club looking at the France international midfielder as a replacement for Casemiro, who will leave Old Trafford at the end of the […]
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that both Micky van de Ven and Alessandro Bastoni could be on the move in the summer transfer window. The well-known and well-respected Italian journalist has claimed that while Netherlands international central defender Van de Ven could leave Tottenham, Italy international centre-back Bastoni could severe his ties with Inter. Romano said […]
A German agent has said that he wants Florian Wirtz to leave Liverpool and join Real Madrid in the future. Volker Struth, who leads German agency Sport 360, has revealed that he was trying to convince Madrid president Florentino Perez to sign Wirtz in the summer of 2025 before the Germany international attacking midfielder joined […]
Ajax winger Mika Godts has been urged by De Telegraaf’s football editor, Valentijn Driessen, not to join Liverpool in the summer transfer window, should the defending Premier League champions come calling for him. Driessen said about Godts on the Kick-off podcast, as relayed by Voetbal Primeur: “He’s Ajax’s best player right now. “But he squandered a golden opportunity […]
Real Madrid have no plans to sell Eduardo Camavinga in the summer transfer window, according to Fabrizio Romano. There have been rumours that Manchester United want to sign Camavinga, with the Premier League club looking at the France international midfielder as a replacement for Casemiro, who will leave Old Trafford at the end of the […]
Real Madrid have no plans to sell Aurelien Tchouameni to Chelsea in the summer transfer window, according to Fabrizio Romano. The well-known and well-respected Italian journalist has also dismissed speculation that Chelsea are keen on the France international midfielder. Romano said on his YouTube channel: “No, at the moment, I am not aware of anything […]
Barcelona have been offered the chance to sign Ben White from Arsenal in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Barcelona, who won La Liga last season, have ‘received a formal offer from Mikel Arteta’ to ‘acquire the services’ of White. White is struggling for […]
Juventus are interested in signing Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. AC Milan are also said to be keen on a deal for the Brazil international striker. The Spanish media outlet has claimed that Jesus is ready to leave Arsenal at the end of the season. Viktor Gyokeres is […]
Cristiano Ronaldo has joined Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Vinicius in redefining what it means to be a modern soccer superstar.
Cristiano Ronaldo has joined Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Vinicius in redefining what it means to be a modern soccer superstar. No longer confined to the pitch, the Portuguese icon has stepped further into the business of the game, adding his name to a growing list of active players investing in clubs while still competing at the highest level.
Due to integrity restrictions, players are often unable to buy teams inside their own domestic systems. However, many have discovered methods to invest either abroad or via permitted organizations. In recent years, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Vinicius have all entered the ownership arena in different capacities. Now, Ronaldo has joined that elite circle.
The movement is unmistakable. Mbappe became the majority investor in Caen in 2024, reportedly committing around $24 million after his move to Spain ensured no conflict with French competition rules. Messi and Luis Suarez launched Deportivo LSM in Uruguay in 2025. Vinicius, Luka Modric, Thibaut Courtois, and N’Golo Kante have also expanded their influence through minority stakes in various clubs.
Ronaldo, however, has taken a particularly symbolic step: investing in a Spanish club he once tormented during his Real Madrid prime. Between 2009 and 2015, he faced the side seven times in La Liga, scoring seven goals and providing five assists, remaining unbeaten with six wins and one draw.
🚨💣💥| OFFICIAL: Luis Suárez confirmed that Lionel Messi has joined his club Deportivo LS, founded in 2021, as a member.
— From now on it will be called LSM and compete in the First Division of Uruguayan football. ✅ pic.twitter.com/ZT3nSV8WcG
According to ESPN and confirmed by Brunswick Group, Ronaldo has purchased a 25 percent ownership stake in Almeria, currently competing in Spain’s second division. The deal was executed through his company, CR7 Sports Investments, though financial details were not disclosed.
In an official statement, Ronaldo explained his motivation: “It has been a long-time ambition of mine to contribute to football, beyond the pitch. UD Almeria is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth.” He added, “I have long had the ambition to contribute to soccer beyond the pitch. UD Almeria is a Spanish club with a strong foundation and clear growth potential. I wish to work with the team leading the club to support it in its new phase of growth.”
The move represents a long-term investment for the 41-year-old, who continues to play for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia and has recently extended his contract until June 2027.
Comunicado oficial:
Cristiano Ronaldo invierte en la UD Almería como parte del consorcio propietario del club liderado por SMC Group pic.twitter.com/0hGGWguEc0
Almeria has been under Saudi ownership since 2019. Former owner Turki Alalshikh sold the club to a Saudi-backed consortium led by Mohamed Al-Khereiji in 2025. Ronaldo’s strong ties to Saudi Arabia, where he earns a reported $236 million per year, appear to have facilitated the deal.
Al Khereiji welcomed Ronaldo’s involvement enthusiastically: “We are very pleased that Cristiano has chosen our club to invest in. He is considered the best on the pitch.” He continued: “He knows the Spanish leagues very well and understands the potential of what we are building here, both in terms of the team and the academy.”
Almeria currently sits third in Segunda Division, two points behind leaders Racing Santander, as it pushes for promotion after relegation from La Liga in 2023-24.
Cristiano Ronaldo (left), Kylian Mbappe (center), and Lionel Messi (right)
Manchester United are interested in signing Ibrahim Sangare from Nottingham Forest in the summer transfer window, according to GiveMeSport. The report has claimed that Man Utd are looking at the Ivory Coast international defensive midfielder as a replacement for Casemiro. Casemiro announced in January that he will leave Man Utd at the end of the […]
Leeds United are interested in signing Yaser Asprilla from Girona in the summer transfer window, according to Sports Boom. The Premier League club reportedly view the Colombia international winger as a replacement for Wilfried Gnonto. Asprilla joined Girona from Watford in the summer of 2024. The 22-year-old moved to Turkish Super Lig club Galatasaray on […]
Newcastle United are among the clubs that are interested in signing Abde Ezzalzouli from Real Betis in the summer transfer window, according to Sports Boom. Aston Villa, West Ham United and Aston Villa are also said to be keen on the winger, with Napoli also admirers of the 24-year-old. Ezzalzouli has been at Betis since […]
Napoli are interested in signing Ernest Poku from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer transfer window, according to Fussball Daten. The German news outlet has claimed that another Italian club, Juventus, are also keen on a deal for the 22-year-old Dutch forward. Poku joined Bayer from AZ in the summer of 2025. The youngster has scored […]
Bayern Munich are interested in signing Archie Gray from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer transfer window, according to Sports Boom. The report has claimed that Spanish and European powerhouse Real Madrid are also keen on the 19-year-old, who is a midfielder by trade but can also play as a right-back or left-back. The report has […]
Newcastle United are interested in signing Scott McTominay from Napoli in the summer transfer window, according to Sports Boom. Crystal Palace are also said to be keen on bringing the former Manchester United midfielder back to the Premier League. McTominay has been a resounding success at Napoli, with whom he has won Serie A. The […]
Tottenham Hotspur want to sign Morgan Gibbs-White from Nottingham Forest in the summer transfer window, according to Sports Boom. Spurs were keen on a deal for the midfielder in the summer of 2025, and the North London club will ‘revive their interest’ in Gibbs-White at the end of the season. Spurs were close to a […]
Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai is now worth £100million, according to former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson. Real Madrid’s interest in the Hungary international midfielder and his impressive performances for Liverpool have seen his value soar. Borson told Football Insider: “I think Szoboszlai has probably put himself in the £100m bracket. “If he was to […]
Liverpool will not pay £50m million to sign Mateus Mane from Premier League rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider. Manchester United are also interested in Mane, who is valued at £50m by his club. While Wolves do not want to sell Mane and are determined to keep him even […]
Although many might have been left stunned last month following Michael Carrick’s return to the Old Trafford dugout, Manchester United have embarked on a sensational rise under the ex-Middlesbrough boss. Clinching a 1-0 victory away at Everton on Monday night, the Red Devils have registered 13 points from their first five Premier League showdowns under […]
Newcastle United have reportedly made an enquiry about Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay, signalling their intent to strengthen the heart of their squad ahead of the summer window.
The Scotland international has been one of Serie A’s standout performers since his move to Italy, and prising him away from Naples could require a fee in the region of £70 million, according to Sports Boom.
Newcastle United are looking for midfield additions
Scott McTominay in action for Napoli (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Newcastle United are assessing contingency plans amid speculation surrounding Sandro Tonali’s future.
Reports suggest Man United are monitoring Tonali, potentially forcing Eddie Howe to secure a high-calibre replacement.
Napoli are keen to extend McTominay’s contract until 2030, hoping to secure his future before Scotland’s participation in the 2026 World Cup heightens his global profile.
While Napoli are determined to keep their midfield talisman, Premier League interest and financial power may yet test their resolve.
Chelsea are maintaining strong confidence in their ability to land Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers this summer, even as Villa insist that only a truly exceptional offer would prompt them to consider a sale.
The 23-year-old has rapidly emerged as one of the Premier League’s most exciting young attackers, and his rising profile has inevitably drawn attention from Stamford Bridge.
However, prising him away from Villa Park will not be straightforward, particularly given the financial benchmark set by Jack Grealish’s £100 million move to Manchester City in 2021, according to TEAMtalk.
Aston Villa are not looking to sell Rogers
Aston Villa regard Rogers as a cornerstone of their long-term project.
Under Unai Emery, the midfielder has flourished in an advanced role, combining creativity, physical presence and goal scoring quality.
Chelsea hold long term interest in English midfielder
Morgan Rogers celebrates a goal for Aston Villa (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Chelsea have tracked Rogers for years. Their co-director of recruitment, Joe Shields, played a key role in bringing the player into Manchester City’s youth system earlier in his career, a connection that strengthens the London club’s internal knowledge of his development.
Chelsea view Rogers as a dynamic, modern attacking midfielder capable of operating centrally or drifting wide.
His ball-carrying ability, pressing intensity and goal contributions align with the club’s strategy of assembling technically gifted, high-ceiling talents.
Arsenal have reportedly rejected an approach from Real Madrid for centre-back Gabriel Magalhães, underlining their determination to retain their core players as they continue to compete at the top of the Premier League.
The enquiry from the Spanish giants was swiftly rebuffed, with Arsenal making it clear that the Brazilian defender is not for sale under any circumstances, according to TEAMtalk.
Last summer, Gabriel signed a long-term contract extension, signalling both his commitment to the project and the club’s intent to secure their key assets.
Manchester United appear set to complete their first outgoing deal of the summer, with reports from Turkey indicating that an agreement has been reached with Beşiktaş for the transfer of goalkeeper Altay Bayındır.
The proposed move, reportedly worth around €5 million (£4.3 million), would mark the end of Bayındır’s short and largely unsettled spell at Old Trafford, according to Fanatik, as reported by The Standard.
The Turkish international joined United as a deputy to André Onana but has struggled to cement himself as a long-term solution in goal.
Bayındır never truly established himself at Man United
Man United signed Bayındır with the intention of strengthening competition behind Onana.
However, circumstances thrust him into the spotlight during periods when Onana’s performances dipped.
While Bayındır showed composure in isolated appearances, he was unable to fully convince as a permanent No.1.
The arrival of additional goalkeeping options further complicated the hierarchy, and it became increasingly clear that United would reassess their depth in the position.
Reports suggest Beşiktaş previously attempted to secure his signature in January, only for United to halt negotiations late in the window as they weighed squad balance.
Goalkeeper will have an opportunity to revive his career
Altay Bayindir in action for Man United (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
A return to Turkey with Besiktas offers Bayındır the chance to reclaim regular first-team football.
At 26, he remains in his prime years for a goalkeeper, and consistent minutes could help revive the trajectory that once made him one of Turkey’s most highly regarded prospects.
For United, the sale represents both financial recoupment and clarity as they continue reshaping the squad.
Clearing space in the goalkeeping department may pave the way for further adjustments as United look to stabilise one of the most scrutinised positions in the squad.
Casemiro’s time at Manchester United appears to be drawing to a close, but the Brazilian midfielder may not be ready to step away from Europe’s elite stage just yet.
With his contract set to expire at the end of the 2025/26 season, the 34-year-old is expected to leave Old Trafford on a free transfer and Serie A has emerged as a potential destination, according to The Sun.
AC Milan are understood to be assessing experienced midfield options ahead of next season, particularly as they aim to maintain their push near the top of the Serie A table.
Milan’s recruitment strategy has combined youth with leadership in recent seasons, and Casemiro’s pedigree matches perfectly with that approach.
Having won multiple Champions League titles during his time at Real Madrid, Casemiro brings a wealth of big-match experience.
There is also intrigue surrounding the possibility of linking up with Luka Modrić, another former Madrid stalwart, should Milan continue their interest in assembling seasoned European talent.
Interim Man United boss Carrick has called Casemiro a ‘fantastic‘ player and the manager has admitted that it has been a pleasure to work with the Brazilian midfielder.
Liverpool’s summer planning has reportedly extended to Galatasaray’s Roland Sallai, with the Hungarian international’s father revealing that contact has been made regarding a potential move.
While no formal bid has materialised, the comments have sparked intrigue, particularly given Sallai’s versatility and Liverpool’s current needs.
At 28, Sallai is not a conventional developmental signing.
Instead, he represents a mature, adaptable profile, one that could provide immediate depth in multiple roles.
Father’s comments stir Liverpool interest
Speaking to Hungarian outlet Blikk, Tibor Sallai addressed the growing speculation.
“Roli feels good here, he loves the club, he doesn’t want to leave at any cost, but I think he still has one big step left in his career, a really big club,” Tibor Sallai told Blikk.
“From here, he can only sign for a team that is truly one of the top teams in the world. Liverpool could be such a destination, and I admit, I wouldn’t be surprised if this club change happened now.”
Those remarks suggest that while the player is content at Galatasaray, the prospect of joining Liverpool would represent a career-defining opportunity.
Roland Sallai of Galatasaray (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)
Sallai joined Galatasaray in 2024 after impressing as an attacking winger for Freiburg and the Hungary national team.
However, this season he has been redeployed primarily as a right-back, a transition that has enhanced his defensive awareness without compromising his attacking instincts.
That positional evolution is particularly relevant. Liverpool have encountered instability on the right side of defense, and Sallai’s combination of forward thrust and defensive discipline could offer a flexible solution.
His existing chemistry with Hungary teammates Dominik Szoboszlai and Milos Kerkez could play a role if Liverpool make a move to sign him.
Whether this link develops into a formal pursuit will depend on Liverpool’s need for a new right-back this year.
Flamengo host Lanus for the decisive second leg of the CONMEBOL Recopa Sudamericana. Below, you’ll find complete information on kickoff times, along with full TV coverage and streaming options available in the United States.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Lanus vs Flamengo on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
Lanus vs Flamengo
WHAT
2026 CONMEBOL Recopa Sudamericana
WHEN
7:30pm ET / 4:30pm PT • Thursday, February 26, 2026
WHERE
Fubo, Fanatiz, beIN SPORTS, beIN SPORTS en Español and beIN SPORTS CONNECT
With a trip to Brazil deciding the series, the pressure ramps up as Lanus looks to protect a narrow advantage against one of South America’s toughest home teams. The Argentine side did its job in the opener, grinding out a hard-fought 1-0 victory on its own turf, but that slim margin leaves little room for error heading into hostile territory.
Flamengo, powered by a dominant 2025 season and eager to keep that surge rolling into 2026, has built a reputation as one of CONMEBOL’s most imposing hosts, meaning Lanus will need a disciplined, nearly flawless effort to pull off the upset and punch its ticket forward—don’t miss what promises to be a high-stakes showdown in Brazil.
More details on how to watch
With Fubo, you can watch Lanus vs Flamengo and tons more games. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, Apple TV or hook it up to your TV with Google Chromecast.
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Plus Fubo, the legal streaming service, also streams Liga MX, World Cup, Women’s World Cup, MLS, UEFA Champions League (in Spanish), Europa League (in Spanish), Primeira Liga, Ligue Un, World Cup qualifiers, NWSL, select USMNT games, select USWNT games, select Mexico games, select England games and more.
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Kobbie Mainoo’s resurgence at Manchester United has reignited optimism around one of the club’s brightest academy graduates.
Yet despite his return to prominence under head coach Michael Carrick, formal talks over a new contract have not yet begun, according to The Sun.
The 20-year-old midfielder remains tied to Old Trafford until 2027, with the club holding an option for an additional year.
While there is no immediate contractual urgency, Man United are aware of the importance of securing the long-term future of a player widely regarded as central to their rebuild.
Mainoo has managed to revive his Man United career
That period fuelled speculation about a potential departure, particularly as European clubs monitored his situation.
However, Carrick’s appointment marked a turning point. Mainoo has started each of the new manager’s Premier League fixtures, re-establishing himself as a key component in midfield.
His composure in possession, spatial awareness and ability to dictate tempo have been vital in stabilising United’s performances.
Carrick’s system appears to suit Mainoo’s strengths. Rather than being isolated defensively, he has been deployed in roles that maximise his technical control and progressive passing.
Internally, United are understood to view him as a foundational figure for the coming years.
While contract discussions have yet to formally commence, the club’s intention is to reward his progress with improved terms in due course.
Newcastle United have no intention of selling Anthony Gordon this summer, despite growing speculation linking the winger with a move to Liverpool, according to talkSPORT.
The England international’s recent surge in form has inevitably attracted attention from clubs higher up the Premier League table, but sources indicate that the Magpies are determined to keep one of their most influential attacking assets.
Gordon’s performances in recent weeks have only strengthened Newcastle’s resolve.
Anthony Gordon has been in fine form recently
Newcastle United have seen Gordon hit an impressive run of form, scoring seven goals in his last 12 appearances across competitions.
His direct running, improved end product and relentless pressing have made him a central figure in Eddie Howe’s attacking setup.
Anthony Gordon in action for Newcastle against Manchester United (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Interest from Liverpool is not new. Two years ago, Gordon came close to securing a move to Anfield before Newcastle acted decisively to retain him.
Although he progressed through Everton’s academy, Gordon spent part of his early youth career with Liverpool and has previously been described as a boyhood Reds supporter.
With uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah’s long-term future and questions being asked about Cody Gakpo’s role, Liverpool are understood to be assessing wide attacking options.
Gordon’s profile naturally fits that discussion. Crucially, Gordon signed a contract extension tying him to St James’ Park until 2028, placing Newcastle in a strong negotiating position.
At 23, the midfielder represents a younger, high-ceiling option. Reports suggest any move could require a bid in excess of £100 million, which would be a record signing for both United and City.
Nottingham Forest are keen to retain their core players, but their financial stance could shift depending on league status. Relegation would almost certainly intensify external interest.
Forest’s fate may ultimately dictate whether this rivalry extends beyond the pitch and into the transfer market.
Barcelona are already laying the groundwork for a decisive summer rebuild, with reports in Spain suggesting that Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush has emerged as a serious attacking target.
The 27-year-old is understood to be viewed as a viable alternative to Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez, as new head coach Hansi Flick refines the squad to fit his tactical philosophy, according to Sport.
Alongside their interest in Marmoush, the Catalan giants are also moving to secure João Cancelo on a permanent basis after an impressive loan spell.
Man City star is seen as an ideal player for Barcelona
Omar Marmoush of Manchester City (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Barcelona are reportedly confident that Marmoush could be attainable for a fee below €75 million, a figure considered manageable given current market inflation for proven forwards.
The Egypt international has impressed since joining Man City, demonstrating versatility across the front line.
Football pundit and former Man City defender Andy Morrison has described Marmoush as a ‘great talent‘.
Barcelona’s sporting department is believed to value his work rate and transitional threat, seeing him as a forward capable of stretching defences while maintaining tactical discipline.
At just 18 years old, Honest Ahanor has emerged as one of the most exciting defensive prospects in European football.
The Atalanta left-back has impressed in both Serie A and the Champions League, blending defensive authority with explosive attacking intent.
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His rapid development has not gone unnoticed, with several Premier League clubs closely monitoring his progress, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.
Atalanta have built a reputation for nurturing technically gifted and tactically intelligent players, and Ahanor fits seamlessly into that philosophy.
Physically robust and quick across the ground, Ahanor excels in defensive duels while also contributing offensively.
His ability to overlap, deliver accurate crosses and recover quickly in transition makes him the prototype of the modern attacking full-back or even a hybrid centre-back in systems requiring tactical flexibility.
Now at Inter Miami, Lionel Messi shared his honest opinion on the growth of the MLS and the USMNT, comparing it with the Liga MX and Mexico.
Mexico’s soccer culture and international pedigree have historically surpassed that of the United States in North America’s regional rivalry, but the gap appears closer than ever. Now witnessing that evolution firsthand with Inter Miami CF, Lionel Messi offered his candid assessment of the growth of Major League Soccer and the USMNT compared to Mexico national team and Liga MX.
With Inter Miami competing internationally, Messi has faced not only MLS-based U.S. internationals but also Liga MX standouts. While Mexican dominance remains evident, he believes the margin has narrowed. Speaking on YouTube channel Miro de Atrás with Nahuel Guzmán and Gonzalo Iglesias, the Tigres UANL goalkeeper noted the shrinking gap, prompting Messi to weigh in:
“Well, I think part of that is also what’s happened at the national team level, right? Because I think the United States and Mexico are very even right now. The U.S. national team has done a great job in recent World Cups too, and I think MLS clubs have grown a lot. When Mexican teams come here to play, it’s tough for them,” Messi stated.
The Argentine also pointed to a key contrast between playing environments in Mexico and the U.S., emphasizing factors behind Mexican clubs’ continued edge, especially in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. “Also, when MLS teams go to Mexico, it’s an advantage for Mexican sides playing at home. In some places you have altitude, stadiums filled with 60,000 or 70,000 people, and whether you like it or not, that plays a role. Home-field advantage is strong — that’s why Mexican teams have usually won the Champions Cup,” he added.
Cruz Azul celebrating with the CONCACAF Champions Cup 2025 trophy.
To contextualize his point, since the competition’s launch in 1962, Mexican clubs have won 40 titles and finished runner-up 20 times. U.S. sides, meanwhile, have claimed the trophy just three times, with five runner-up finishes. Since 2022, each final has featured an MLS club against a Liga MX side, but only once did the MLS representative prevail, Seattle Sounders FC.
MLS growth also a positive sign for Mexico, says Messi
Last season, both leagues attracted major names: MLS drew stars like Son Heung‑min and Thomas Müller, while Liga MX welcomed Sergio Ramos, James Rodríguez, and Keylor Navas. Still, the Liga MX arrivals have largely struggled to match the impact of those who joined MLS.
Even so, Messi believes MLS’s rise could ultimately benefit Mexican soccer: “I think MLS’s growth is worth highlighting, and I think it’s good for Mexico too, right? Because it puts them on alert. I don’t think it should be seen negatively, but rather positively — competing against MLS helps them keep improving, keep competing, and try to surpass them again and stay on top. In a way, it should help, not bother them.“
Historically, Mexico has asserted regional dominance through the CONCACAF Gold Cup, with a record 13 titles. Yet over the last 13 editions (since 2002), Mexico has won seven while the USMNT has captured the other six, now being in a situation where both national teams are sharing that domination.
“I think the same thing happens with the national teams, right? The rivalry has always been United States vs. Mexico. The last one was won by Mexico, but before that the United States had won — they’re right there. I don’t know, I think everything has become much more competitive and balanced overall,” Messi concluded.
With only two open dates, Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal has officially confirmed the first pre-2026 World Cup friendly.
Cristiano Ronaldo will have his final chance to win the World Cup in 2026 when the tournament in North America kicks off on June 11 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico. As preparations ramp up for that golden opportunity, Portugal have officially confirmed their first friendly ahead of the competition.
After finishing atop Group F in the UEFA World Cup qualifiers and securing a spot in the tournament, Portugal cleared its schedule to organize additional friendlies as part of the team’s preparations. With the March international window already filled with matches against United States and Mexico, only two open dates remained in May and June before the start of the World Cup.
As announced by the Portuguese Football Federation on Wednesday, the Seleção will face Chile on June 6, just days before the tournament begins. According to the federation, the match is “part of its training camp” and will focus on preparing the squad for the competition in North America.
It will be the first meeting between Portugal and Chile since their clash at the FIFA Confederations Cup. On that occasion, the reigning champions of the Copa América and the UEFA European Championship met in the semifinals, playing to a scoreless draw before Chile advanced 3-0 on penalties.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal and Arturo Vidal of Chile.
While Chile failed to qualify for the World Cup, finishing last in CONMEBOL qualifying, the match should still serve as a valuable test for Portugal’s preparations. With a historical record of two wins and two draws against La Roja, Ronaldo and company will be aiming to maintain their unbeaten mark in the fixture.
Only one friendly remaining to be confirmed
Despite confirming the opponent and date, Portugal has not yet announced the venue for the friendly against Chile. Still, all indications point to the match being staged in Europe, allowing the squad to play both warm-ups before departing for North America for the World Cup.
In its announcement, the federation added that “the team coached by Roberto Martínez will also play a second warm-up match scheduled for June 10 in Leiria.” That suggests the national team is likely to hold both pre-World Cup friendlies on home soil.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal applauds the fans after the draw against Hungary.
LA Galaxy square off with Sporting San Miguelito in the return leg of the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup first round. Here’s all the essential information, including the date, venue, kickoff time, and how to watch or live stream the action across the United States.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch LA Galaxy vs Sporting San Miguelito on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
LA Galaxy vs Sporting San Miguelito
WHAT
CONCACAF Champions Cup
WHEN
8:00pm ET / 5:00pm PT • Wednesday, February 25, 2026
After a stunning stalemate in the first leg, Los Angeles Galaxy return home knowing the job is far from finished against Sporting San Miguelito. The MLS side entered the series as clear favorites despite inconsistent form, but couldn’t turn that edge into a road win, leaving the tie wide open heading into the decisive match in Southern California.
While the Galaxy still hold the advantage on their own field, Sporting proved it can compete and will believe an upset is within reach with a disciplined performance. With advancement on the line, this is shaping up to be a can’t-miss showdown.
More details on how to watch
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After Al Nassr’s record-breaking 5-0 win in the SPL, Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a three-word message to his teammates.
Cristiano Ronaldo continues making headlines even after turning 41, moving closer to the elusive 1,000-goal milestone, a feat never achieved in soccer history. As Al Nassr set a club record in the Saudi Pro League with a 5-0 victory over Al Najma, the Portuguese icon shared a three-word message for teammates and supporters.
Kingsley Coman (31st minute), Inigo Martinez (42′, 80′), and Sadio Mane (52′) also found the net to seal a dominant 5-0 result. With the three points from Unaizah, Al Nassr moved to the top of the league standings with 58 points from 23 matches, two clear of Al Ahli.
After the win, Ronaldo took to social media to post a brief message: “Keep it going!” With a nine-match league winning streak, Al Nassr next travel to face Al Feiha on Saturday the 28th, where the veteran striker will look to extend his scoring run to six straight games.
After a strong start to 2026, Al Nassr have found rhythm on both ends of the field, pairing Ronaldo-led attacking production with disciplined defending. Most recently, the club matched its record for most consecutive clean sheets in Saudi Pro League play.
The 5-0 win over Al Najma pushed that streak to seven straight league shutouts, the longest in club history. The previous mark was six, recorded between October 2014 and February 2015.
Asked about the run of defensive form, head coach Jorge Jesus praised his squad’s execution. “My team has implemented the defensive ideas we’ve worked on since the beginning of the season. Now the players are applying them with great discipline, and that’s due to their strong commitment,” the Portuguese said in the post-match press conference.
That solidity has extended across competitions: counting both SPL and continental matches, Al Nassr are now on a nine-game clean-sheet streak. The last goal they conceded came in a 2-1 win over Damac on January 21, meaning the run has lasted more than a month.
LAFC manager Marc Dos Santos explained why Son Heung-min left the Concacaf Champions Cup match early.
Son Heung-min’s tenure with LAFC has just begun. This is his first full year with the team after arriving in August 2025 from Tottenham. The production so far has been good, so the early exit in the victory over Real España in the Concacaf Champions Cup left some doubts that manager Marc Dos Santos explained.
The series was finished before it even started for how the first leg went. A 6-1 victory in Honduras made this match a mere obligation in Los Angeles to see what club came through to the competition’s next round. Tuesday’s 1-0 win gave only the concern of Son leaving the field at halftime.
Dos Santos gave a very calming description of why he made the substitution: “We originally planned to use Son and Denis Bouanga for only 45 minutes. The two players did not have a perfect preseason. Regaining their match rhythm was the most important thing. We had already informed them that they would only play the first half.”
LAFC secure Bouanga’s future
The victory in the Concacaf Champions Cup with the tranquility from Don Santos’ words weren’t the only good news for LAFC fans. The club has also secured they are keeping their top striker for many years to come.
Bouanga has already become a legend for the club (Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
Their decision was an easy one as they described: “LAFC has re-signed forward Bouanga to a contract extension as a Designated Player through 2028, with an option through the 2029-30 season.”
For the French striker his move to LAFC has been a great one that boosts a league title with many individual accolades. His numbers of 105 goals in 155 matches put him already in the legend status for the club.
LAFC’s next matches
LAFC opened the season with a 3-0 victory against Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami. This puts them as a clear candidate for the trophy albeit ina long calendar. What comes next are matches with Houston Dynamo on Saturday, FC Dallas a week later and St. Louis on March 14.
Joan Laporta wasn't pleased with the CTA admitting the referee's mistake that led to a Barcelona loss to Girona in La Liga.
Barcelona has been subject to some refereeing mistakes in recent matches. The error that sparked the most controversy was the one that led to the loss to Girona, which gave Real Madrid the momentary lead in La Liga standings. Joan Laporta posted his thoughts on the recent resolution.
A previous complaint concerned an offside flagged on Pau Cubarsí in the 4-0 Copa del Rey defeat to Atletico Madrid. That incident sparked outrage at the club. This week the CTA of the RFEF, the Spanish federation’s technical committee of referees, sided with Barcelona.
Laporta said: “The pressure on Jules Koundé was obvious. Nobody’s going to give us the lost point back. It was clear. Admitting the mistake is a step, but they are not giving the point back. We have mixed feelings. Let’s hope this does not get repeated.”
CTA’s full explanation
The controversial play was decisive in Barcelona’s defeat to Girona. With the match tied 1-1, Girona scored with just five minutes remaining. In the action, Claudio Echeverri stepped on Koundé in the lead up to the goal.
Girona won 2-1 (Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)
The CTA stated: “Law 12: Fouls and Misconduct clarifies that a reckless stamp constitutes a foul and a caution. Contesting the ball does not exempt a player from committing an offence. If a player steps on an opponent using excessive force, it must be sanctioned.”
Their resolution was that it was a foul: “The Girona forward removes the defender from the defensive action, and the infringement should therefore be punished with a foul and a yellow card. VAR should intervene, as this involves a clear and obvious error, and advise the referee to change the decision.”
Barcelona’s answer
Barcelona regained ground over the weekend to put the point margin back in their favor. That may have tempered the club’s response, but they posted a short message on social media: “Owning a mistake is a big step. Avoiding it is the next.”
Real Madrid took control of their UEFA Champions League playoff series against Benfica thanks to a goal from Vinicius, who has been a central figure in the series following his incident with Gianluca Prestianni.
After a week full of controversy surrounding the conflict betweenViniciusand Gianluca Prestianni,Real Madrid set the tone in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League playoffs against Benfica.
Their 1-0 win in Portugal last week gave Real Madrid a slight edge heading into the home leg on Wednesday. However, they couldn’t take anything for granted, as Benfica had shown they had the tools to fight until the very end.
That became clear in the opening minutes at the Santiago Bernabeu, where the visitors struck first through Rafa Silva. The forward capitalized on a rebound inside the box after a save from Thibaut Courtois and slotted home the opener, leveling the aggregate score.
After those frantic minutes with goals at both ends, the match settled into a lull marked by mistakes that prevented many clear scoring opportunities. The most notable moment in that stretch was an Arda Guler goal that was disallowed for an earlier offside by Gonzalo Garcia.
In the second half, Vinicius showcased his immense talent once again. Just like in the first leg, the Brazilian winger scored a stunning goal that put Real Madrid at ease. He received the ball just past midfield, carried it a long distance into the box, and calmly finished past the goalkeeper.
What’s next for Real Madrid?
By defeating Benfica with a 3-1 aggregate score, Real Madrid secured their place in the Round of 32 of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League. They now await Friday’s draw to learn their next opponent, which will be either Manchester City or Sporting CP.
Mexico are scheduled to square off with Iceland in an international friendly. Below is all the essential information for fans, including the scheduled start time and how to follow the match on television or through streaming platforms in the United States.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Mexico vs Iceland on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
Mexico vs Iceland
WHAT
International Friendly
WHEN
9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT • Wednesday, February 25, 2026
WHERE
Fubo, TUDN USA, FOX Deportes, Univision, ViX and FOX One
The preparation for the World Cup 2026 continues for Mexico, who opened its 2026 with gritty wins over Panama and Bolivia, but now the challenge ramps up as El Tri will square off against UEFA’s Iceland in what will be a far tougher test.
While the Nordic side isn’t the same surprise sensation from UEFA Euro 2016 and the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Iceland remains disciplined and dangerous, eager to use this clash with a CONCACAF heavyweight to make a statement. It’s a key measuring stick for both teams—don’t miss this international showdown.
More details on how to watch
With Fubo, you can watch Mexico vs Iceland and tons more games. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, Apple TV or hook it up to your TV with Google Chromecast.
Now with Fubo, you can stream USA Network, ESPN, ESPN2, CBS, CBS Sports Network, FS1, FS2, beIN SPORTS, beIN SPORTS en Español, beIN SPORTS Connect, beIN SPORTS XTRA, NBC, CNBC, USA, FOX, FOX Soccer Plus, FOX Deportes, Universo, Telemundo and Galavision.
Plus Fubo, the legal streaming service, also streams Liga MX, World Cup, Women’s World Cup, MLS, UEFA Champions League (in Spanish), Europa League (in Spanish), Primeira Liga, Ligue Un, World Cup qualifiers, NWSL, select USMNT games, select USWNT games, select Mexico games, select England games and more.
The Fubo app is available for Windows PC, Mac, Apple iPhones, Android phones, Amazon Fire TV, Android Mobile, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Hisense TVs, iOS devices, LG TVs, Samsung Smart TVs, Vizio Smartcast TVs and Xbox One.
If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full Fubo soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
How to watch anywhere with VPN
If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.
To find out when soccer games are on, download the free Soccer TV Schedules App which includes listings of all of the live soccer matches available in the United States (available on Apple iOS devices and Android devices).
Silva Mexes has been linked with a move away from Manchester United, and Leeds United are closing in on his capture.
According to a report via TEAMtalk, Leeds are expected to sign the 15-year-old Manchester United Academy prospect. They are looking to build a team for the future, and Mexes could prove to be an excellent long-term investment for them.
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Silva Mexes is one for the future
The 15-year-old is a talented player with a bright future, and he is highly rated across England. He is regarded as one of the finest young talents at the under-16 level.
Nottingham Forest and Ipswich Town are interested in signing the player as well, but Leeds United are currently in pole position to secure his signature. They are expected to wrap up the deal imminently. It will be a huge boost for Leeds United if they can get the transfer across the line.
The 15-year-old could develop into an important player for them with the right guidance. If he manages fulfil his potential with Leeds United in future, he will be able to save millions for them in the transfer market.
The opportunity to join the English club will be exciting for the young Manchester United prospect as well. He will look to establish himself as an important first-team player for the club in future. For now, Leeds will need to nurture him properly and provide him with a clear pathway to the first team.
They have done well to groom young players in the past, and it will be interesting to see if they can help the 15-year-old fulfil his tremendous potential as well.
Tottenham Hotspur are looking to improve their attacking unit at the end of the season, and they have identified Flaco Lopez as a target.
According to journalist Diego Firmino, Tottenham are keeping tabs on the Palmeiras striker and could make a move in the summer. The player will cost around £35-40 million in the summer.
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Flaco Lopez has done well in Brazil
He has 62 goals and 18 assists in 190 appearances for the Brazilian club, and it will be interesting to see where he ends up. He is on the radar of clubs like Fulham and West Ham United as well.
Lopez is a talented player with a bright future, and he could be a useful acquisition for Tottenham. The North London club needs to add more quality to its attacking unit. They need someone who can compete with Dominic Solanke for the starting spot. Competition for places could help both players improve. Solanke has not been able to find the back of the net consistently, and Tottenham need more quality in that area of the pitch.
Flaco López of Palmeiras celebrates after scoring the team’s second goal during the Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores 2025 Group G match between Palmeiras and Sporting Cristal at Allianz Parque on May 28, 2025 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo by Miguel Schincariol/Getty Images)
The 25-year-old South American could share the goal-scoring burden with the Tottenham striker. The opportunity to move to the Premier League will be exciting for him. It would be a major step in his career, and he would get to test himself at the highest level. Regular football in England could help him improve further and fulfil his potential.
The asking price seems quite steep, and it will be interesting to see if Tottenham is willing to break the Bank for him. They need to improve multiple areas of their squad and will look to sign players for lower fees.
Leeds United striker Joe Gelhardt is currently on loan at Hull City, and he has done quite well for the club.
He has scored 11 goals for the Tigers, and they are hoping to sign him permanently at the end of the season. He does not have a future at Leeds, and it makes sense for him to leave the club permanently at the end of the season. It will be interesting to see if he can continue to impress with Hull City and help them push for promotion.
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Hull City keen on Joe Gelhardt move
Tigers sporting director Jarred Dublin has now vowed that the Championship promotion hopefuls will pursue a permanent transfer.
“Division being probably the most important thing with Joffy in particular,” Dublin told Hull Live.
“Where Leeds are, should they maintain Premier League status or come down, so there’s loads of moving parts. On the Joffy one, it’s very clear. I’ve been very vocal, the president, the gaffer, Joffy knows how much we love him, how much we value him, how much we would love to see him continue his Hull City story. That’s case closed on that one. We’ll see what happens.”
Joe Gelhardt of Leeds United looks on. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Leeds United will not want to keep the player against his wishes. It is fair to assume that a transfer will be sanctioned in due course.
Gelhardt is no longer a key part of their plans, and it makes no sense for them to keep him at the club. They will look to sell the player and recoup some money from his departure. Meanwhile, the striker is enjoying his football at Hull City and will look to sort out his long-term future so he can focus on his football once again.
Just as the nation prepares for a decisive intercontinental playoff in Mexico, great news has emerged: a CONMEBOL cult hero has come out of retirement in a bid to lead Bolivia to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
There is a renewed sense of belief surroundingBolivia. Just as the nation prepares for a decisive intercontinental playoff in Mexico, great news has emerged: a CONMEBOL cult hero has come out of retirement in a bid to lead Bolivia to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. For a country that has waited decades for a return to football’s grandest stage, the timing could not be more symbolic, or more emotional.
Bolivia stands on the brink of opportunity. Having finished seventh in the CONMEBOL qualifiers, the nation secured a place in the Inter-Confederation World Cup Qualifying Play-offs. Now, one final push separates it from a historic return to the global tournament for the first time since 1994. The playoff journey will unfold in Mexico between March 23 and 31, 2026. Bolivia will face Suriname in a single-leg semi-final at the Estadio BBVA on March 26.
Victory would keep the nation in Guadalupe for a final showdown against Iraq on March 31. However, the format is unforgiving. Six teams — Bolivia, Suriname, Jamaica, Iraq, New Caledonia, and DR Congo — compete for just two remaining World Cup spots. Each bracket winner qualifies. If level after 90 minutes, extra time and penalties will decide who survives. The stakes extend beyond qualification.
Should Bolivia prevail, it could enter a World Cup group alongside France, Norway, and Senegal, a daunting but historic prospect. La Verde has not appeared at a World Cup since the 1994 tournament in the United States. Before that, its only other participation came in 1950. Across three previous World Cup appearances (1930, 1950, 1994), Bolivia has never won a match, recording five defeats and one draw.
Players of Bolivia pose for a team photo prior to the South American FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Colombia and Bolivia.
Despite inconsistency on the road, nine away defeats in ten qualifying matches, Bolivia produced memorable home victories over Brazil and Colombia during the campaign. Those results reignited belief. The playoff berth now offers redemption.
Emotional return
In the midst of this tension comes the headline that has electrified supporters: Marcelo Martins Moreno has come out of retirement at 38. The nation’s all-time leading scorer and former captain, Moreno, last played in December 2023 for Independiente del Valle before announcing his retirement.
Two years later, he has signed for Oriente Petrolero, the club where his professional career began, and he will do so without receiving a salary, calling it a gesture of gratitude. His return is deeply personal.
Marcelo Martins Moreno of Bolivia
What did Marcelo Martins Moreno say?
At his presentation, he explained the pain that drove him away from the game: “After my father’s death, I didn’t want to continue. But now I’m back and want to help Bolivia qualify for the World Cup.” He elaborated further: “I lost my hero, my father. He was my teacher, the one who taught me everything with the ball. And football left me in that moment, too, because I no longer had the joy of playing. I couldn’t continue. I had a very deep pain in my heart, and it wouldn’t let me train.”
Moreno made clear that his retirement was not impulsive: “I want you to know who hasn’t lost someone important in their life? We’ve all lost someone important. So, I want you to know why I retired; there was a reason. And I hope you respect that reason.”
🇧🇴 A los 38 años, Marcelo Moreno Martins volvió del retiro, fichó por Oriente Petrolero con un objetivo claro:
✨️ “Deje el fútbol porque mi padre falleció, no tenía fuerzas. Ahora quiero regalarle la clasificación al Mundial”.pic.twitter.com/ZoQlfJ5WAN
Now, however, the motivation has shifted. “Today, I’m returning to a very big challenge for my life, for my career, and at the club I wanted to be at. My father was always a positive person with a lot of faith… And no one is going to take this dream away from me. A World Cup qualification would be the greatest thing for me.”
Moreno’s pedigree is undeniable. He was the top scorer in the South American qualifiers before the 2022 World Cup, and he remains Bolivia’s all-time leading scorer. Even after two years without competitive play, his leadership and experience could prove decisive in a high-pressure playoff scenario. Bolivia will rely not only on his finishing but also on his mentality, the composure of a veteran who has faced the continent’s elite and thrived.
FIFA World Cup Trophy is displayed during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Draw.
A former Brazil national team player criticized Neymar over his recent performances with Santos.
Neymar is gradually returning to official action with Santos as he works toward regaining peak physical condition in hopes of playing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In that context, a former Brazil teammate was highly critical of the forward’s recent displays.
“Neymar is the one who messes up the team tactically,” Luis Fabiano said in a recent interview with ESPN, as reported by Goal, following Santos’ 2-1 loss to Novorizontino in the Campeonato Paulista. “I watched a bit of Santos’ game. Every time he goes to get the ball from the defender’s feet, the midfielders, wingers, and forwards don’t know what to do.”
The former Brazil striker elaborated on how Neymar’s movement on the field can hurt the team’s structure. “He goes to get it there, the guys don’t know whether to move, stay, or stay close to him, and the play doesn’t develop.”
Luis Fabiano, who was Neymar’s teammate with Brazil from 2010 to 2013, was blunt in pointing out that the Santos star “isn’t 20 years old anymore.” He added: “When a player reaches a certain age, he thinks he’s still young, that he’s doing things he did at 20. He has to adapt to a new style of play. I think that’s what Neymar is missing.”
Luis Fabiano celebrates scoring for Brazil vs. Chile during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Finally, drawing from his experience as a former striker, Luis Fabiano offered advice on how Neymar should approach this stage of his career. “Staying up front and waiting. One chance doesn’t come, two don’t come, but he stays there, eventually it will come and he’ll be fresh enough to do it,” he said.
Santos coach Vojvoda confident in Neymar
After undergoing knee surgery in late 2025, Neymar missed Santos’ first matches of the year. That changed last week, when the forward played 45 minutes against Velo Clube and the full 90 against Novorizontino.
Despite the team’s loss and elimination, the Santos coach remained optimistic about what Neymar can contribute moving forward. “I have a lot of confidence in him. His game will flow and evolve game by game. And I am responsible for ensuring that confidence comes. I have a lot of confidence in him and I trust every player in the squad,” Juan Pablo Vojvoda said.
“Neymar is in great physical shape, he completes all the training sessions. He played the full 90 minutes for the first time this year,” the coach added. “He will motivate the players. Neymar will push himself to achieve the goals he has set for himself at Santos and with the national team.”
Neymar’s return to the Brazil national team increasingly unlikely
Beyond his desire to help Santos, it is clear that Neymar’s main goal right now is to return to the Brazil national team after an absence of more than two years. However, his chances of being called up by Carlo Ancelotti ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup appear increasingly slim.
Vinicius and Gianluca Prestianni find themselves at the center of a storm that has shaken European soccer at its highest level. As Real Madrid prepares for a decisive Champions League night and Benfica fights to stay alive in the tie, the spotlight has shifted from tactics and goals to a far more serious issue. The first leg in Lisbon […]
Viniciusand Gianluca Prestianni find themselves at the center of a storm that has shaken European soccer at its highest level. As Real Madrid prepares for a decisive Champions League night and Benfica fights to stay alive in the tie, the spotlight has shifted from tactics and goals to a far more serious issue.
The first leg in Lisbon had been evenly contested. Real Madrid found the breakthrough through Vinicius, whose decisive strike gave the Spanish giant a narrow advantage. Benfica, however, remained firmly in contention, trailing by just one goal heading into the return leg at the Santiago Bernabeu. But the narrative changed dramatically in the aftermath of that match.
Following Vinicius’ complaint of racial abuse, UEFA stepped in swiftly. The governing body issued a provisional one-match suspension to Prestianni, ruling him out of the return leg in Madrid while a formal investigation continues.
According to official communication, the sanction was imposed for “a clear violation of Article 14 of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations relating to discriminatory behaviour.” Article 14 addresses offenses against human dignity, including racist insults based on race, color, ethnic origin, or religion.
Gianluca Prestianni of Benfica speaks towards Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid.
The incident reportedly occurred after Vinicius scored the winning goal in Lisbon. Los Blancos players briefly left the pitch in protest after the Brazilian alerted referee François Letexier. Teammates, including Kylian Mbappe and Trent Alexander-Arnold, were said to have voiced their support for Vinicius. UEFA’s concern extends beyond the individual case. European soccer officials reportedly fear that the continuation of the scandal could damage the image of the Champions League itself.
Prestianni’s defense and counter-accusations
The controversy deepened when reports emerged that Prestianni admitted to using discriminatory language, but not racist language. According to The Times, the Argentine allegedly told UEFA investigators that he used a homophobic slur, claiming he had covered his shirt with his mouth during the altercation.
If confirmed, that admission could still carry severe consequences. Under UEFA regulations, discriminatory language, whether racist or homophobic, can result in a ban of up to 10 matches.
Prestianni’s defense is also expected to argue that he was responding to insults from Vinicius, reportedly accusing the Brazilian of mocking his height by calling him a “dwarf.” However, as noted in reports, Article 14 does not cover physical characteristics such as height, meaning Vinicius is unlikely to face punishment under current regulations.
What are the possible consequences for Prestianni?
However, if UEFA investigators ultimately confirm racist abuse, the consequences could be severe and potentially career-altering. According to Spanish newspaper Marca, under Article 14, Prestianni could face:
A minimum 10-match suspension, or even a longer ban from European competitions.
Significant financial penalties.
Mandatory anti-racism education or community service.
Beyond UEFA sanctions, contractual consequences could follow. There is precedent for clubs terminating contracts in confirmed cases of racism. While not automatic, Benfica could invoke moral clauses within Prestianni’s deal if findings are conclusive.
Gianluca Prestianni of Benfica speaks towards Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid.
However, Benfica has made it clear that it stands by its player while the investigation unfolds. Internally, alternatives such as fines, temporary suspensions, or rehabilitation measures could be considered if wrongdoing is established. For now, Prestianni remains suspended but not convicted. The investigation is ongoing, with statements being collected from multiple players amid a lack of conclusive video or audio evidence.
Gianluca Prestianni of SL Benfica and Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid.
Real Madrid and Benfica are facing off in a crucial UEFA Champions League showdown. Rafa and Aurelien Tchouameni both found the net early in the match.
Real Madrid entered the game looking to protect the advantage earned in Portugal and secure a spot in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16. Benfica struck first through Rafa, but Aurelien Tchouameni responded quickly to level the score at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.
That turbulent backdrop appeared to affect Real Madrid in the opening minutes, as they were overwhelmed and unable to cope with the relentless attacks from the Portuguese side, which came out determined to overturn the 1-0 deficit from the first leg.
The pressure paid off early. In the 14th minute, Rafa Silva capitalized on a rebound inside the box following a save by goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and slotted home the opener, a goal that temporarily leveled the aggregate score between the two teams.
Rafa Silva’s goal, which put Benfica ahead on the night, did little to rattle Real Madrid. Instead, it seemed to spark them. The Spanish giants responded immediately and equalized just two minutes later through Aurelien Tchouameni, who finished with a precise right-footed strike.
Los Blancos then had a chance to take the lead when Arda Guler found the back of the net for what appeared to be the second goal, but VAR ultimately ruled it out for an earlier offside by Gonzalo Garcia, restoring Benfica’s realistic hopes of staying in the contest.
Despite a solid season, Christian Pulisic could be facing a major issue at AC Milan. Massimiliano Allegri’s future with the Rossoneri is reportedly generating doubts, as there are certain factors that have left him somewhat uncomfortable at the club.
AC Milan have established themselves as one of the top teams in Serie A, despite facing offensive challenges. By maintaining a solid defense and a stable midfield, they remain in contention for a Champions League spot and are challenging for the top of the table. Despite his impressive work with the roster, Massimiliano Allegri’s future with the Rossoneri is reportedly uncertain, which complicates matters for Christian Pulisic.
According to Michele Criscitiello of Sportitalia, the relationship between AC Milan and Massimiliano Allegri is not entirely stable. The experienced coach is unhappy with the front office’s management, the transfer policy, and the confusing situation surrounding the club’s ownership. For this reason, he is considering his future with the Rossoneri, contemplating a departure at the end of the season.
Amid all these problems, coach Allegri is reportedly focused on securing AC Milan’s qualification for the UEFA Champions League, which stands as the club’s primary objective for the season. Although they have experienced defensive issues throughout the campaign, the Rossoneri have suffered only two defeats all season. As a result, they appear well on track to achieve this goal, staying ahead of teams such as Napoli, AS Roma, and Juventus.
Given his imposing impact on the Rossoneri, a potential departure by Allegri could be extremely damaging for the team. In recent years, very few coaches have been able to make a truly meaningful impact at the club. In his first season, Massimiliano already appears to be on track to secure a Champions League spot, establishing them as one of the most solid teams in Italy. With his potential exit, AC Milan’s project could be left in limbo, without a clear direction.
AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri gestures during the Serie A match.
Massimiliano Allegri’s uncertain future could stall Pulisic renewal
With Allegri’s arrival, AC Milan have gained a level of consistency that had been nonexistent in previous seasons. In addition, he has managed to elevate players such as Adrien Rabiot, Alexis Saelemakers, Fikayo Tomori, Davide Bartesaghi, Pulisic, among others. With Christian’s contract renewal still pending, Massimiliano’s potential departure could slow this operation even further, casting uncertainty over his future.
Despite his current goal drought, Christian Pulisic has established himself as one of the Rossoneri’s most important players. With 10 goals and two assists, he has emerged as one of the team’s most productive performers. Having his contract set to expire in 2027 plus a one-year option, AC Milan have prioritized an extension in order to avoid any unpleasant surprises. However, the USMNT star has decided not to rush the negotiations.
As per some Italian media outlets, Pulisic’s renewal has stalled because he made Champions League qualification and squad reinforcements a condition. Now, with uncertainty surrounding Allegri’s continuity, the USMNT star could further delay any negotiations until the Italian’s future is clarified. Having reached his best version under the coach, he could ultimately decide his future based on who takes on the leadership role of the team.
AC Milan star Christian Pulisic and head coach Massimiliano Allegri.
Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United are interested in signing the Ajax prodigy Sean Steur.
According to TEAMtalk, all three Premier League clubs have been scouting the player closely in recent weeks, and it will be interesting to see whether they decide to make a move for him in the near future. The talented young defensive midfielder has impressed with his performance in the Eredivisie and in Europe.
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Sean Steur is a prodigious talent
The 18-year-old could prove to be a solid long-term acquisition for all three clubs, and it will be interesting to see where he ends up. He has been an important player for Ajax this season, making 30 appearances across all competitions. Steur has picked up two goals and four assists as well.
He has the physicality and technical attributes for English football, and it remains to be seen whether Ajax will sanction his departure. He is likely to cost a premium, but the Premier League club certainly have the financial muscle to get the deal done.
Sean Steur of Netherlands competes for the ball with Wael Mohya of Germany during the Under-18 Four Nations Tournament match between Netherlands and Germany at Pinatar Arena on November 13, 2025 in Murcia, Spain. (Photo by Mateo Villalba Sanchez/Getty Images for DFB)
Liverpool and Manchester United need more quality in the holding midfield role. Liverpool have been using Ryan Gravenberch in that role, but the Netherlands International is better suited to a central midfield role. The arrival of the 18-year-old could allow the Dutch star to play with more freedom. At Manchester United, he could be the long-term replacement for Casemiro, who will leave the club at the end of the season.
Arsenal already have plenty of depth in the middle of the park, and it will be interesting to see if they are serious about signing the 18-year-old. They might not be able to provide him with regular first-team action.
It remains to be seen how the situation develops over the next few months.
Manchester United are reportedly interested in the Brighton goalkeeper Carl Rushworth.
The 24-year-old has had multiple loan spells away from the club in recent years, and Brighton are now prepared to employ him as their first-choice goalkeeper if Bart Verbruggen leaves the club.
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Man United keen on Carl Rushworth
Chelsea and Tottenham are interested in signing the goalkeeper, and Rushworth is likely to be his replacement. As per TEAMtalk, Manchester United are keen on the player, and it remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done. They could use more quality and depth in the goalkeeping department.
Andre Onana is currently out on loan, but he is likely to be sold permanently in the summer. Rushworth could be the ideal replacement for him. The opportunity to join Manchester United will be quite exciting for the player. It would be a huge step up in his career. It will be interesting to see if Manchester United come forward with an official proposal to get the deal done.
The 24-year-old could compete with Senne Lammens for the starting spot. Rushworth is yet to make his senior debut with Brighton.
Carl Rushworth in action for Hull City (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Brighton rate him highly and will not want to lose him easily. It remains to be seen how the situation develops. Manchester United might have to pay a premium in order to get the deal done. Convincing the player will not be difficult for them, but Brighton are unlikely to make it easy for him to move on.
Manchester United need more quality and depth in the team if they want to fight for major trophies next season. They will look to get back to the top of English football, and they need a deeper squad with more quality. Someone like Rushworth would be an excellent acquisition. He could push the Belgian goalkeeper for the starting spot, and the competition for places would help both players improve.
Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, the player is valued at £50 million, and the two Premier League teams are keen on him. Meanwhile, Brighton have already made plans to replace him if the Dutch international decides to move on.
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Chelsea could use Bart Verbruggen
Chelsea could certainly use a reliable goalkeeper like Verbruggen, and he would be a major upgrade on Robert Sanchez. The Spanish goalkeeper has been criticised for his inconsistencies, and Chelsea will need to replace him. Signing the Dutch goalkeeper could prove to be a wise decision. He is well settled in the Premier League, and he could make an immediate impact.
Bart Verbruggen of Brighton & Hove Albion looks on (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
It will be interesting to see which of the two clubs will pay £50 million in order to sign the Netherlands international. The opportunity to join Chelsea or Tottenham will be exciting for him. It would be a major step up in his career, and he would get to compete at the highest level and fight for major trophies.
Verbruggen is entering the peak years of his career, and this could be the right time for him to take on a new challenge. Joining some of the biggest clubs in the country would be a wise decision. It will be interesting to see where he ends up eventually. The asking price is quite high for a goalkeeper, and it remains to be seen whether Chelsea or Tottenham is prepared to pay up.
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Chelsea could use Morgan Rogers
Chelsea could certainly use his ingenuity in the final third. They have been overly dependent on Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro. They need more cutting-edge in the final third, and signing the England international would be ideal. However, they need to improve the defensive unit and the goalkeeper as well. Spending £100 million on Rogers could prove to be difficult in the summer.
Morgan Rogers celebrates a goal for Aston Villa (Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images)
As far as Manchester United are concerned, he could be the ideal long-term replacement for Bruno Fernandes. It will be interesting to see if Manchester United decides to break the Bank for him. They need to improve multiple areas of the squad in the summer. They have other priorities, and investing in Rogers might not be a wise decision.
Also, Aston Villa is well placed to secure Champions League qualification for the next season. It will give them the financial freedom to hold onto their best players. It seems unlikely that the 23-year-old will leave the West Midlands club anytime soon.
Vinicius' teammate in Brazil invited him to his club if he leaves Real Madrid.
Viniciushas been rumored to have a strained relationship with Real Madrid executives amid a contract dispute over his extension. However, that has quieted since Xabi Alonso left. Even if he stays with the Spanish side for a while, a teammate in Brazil invited him to join his club.
The winger joined Real Madrid in 2018 from Flamengo, the club where he developed in his country. That’s where he was invited back by Lucas Paquetá, who recently returned to his roots from West Ham. Paquetá mentioned the promise in an interview with ESPN and urged Vinicius to consider coming home when the time is right.
They played together from 2017 to 2018, forming a close bond in the youth setups and sharing the same training routines and ambitions. Paquetá said: “I’m here. Now it’s only you missing. Return because we must fulfill what we promised. I’m sure he will return when the time comes.”
Paquetá on the alleged case of racism
Vinicius scored the winning goal against Benfica in the first leg of the Champions League playoff but he became the centre of an incident in which Gianluca Prestianni allegedly insulted him.
Vinicius and Paquetá playing for Brazil (Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
On Wednesday there will be a rematch between the Spanish and the Portuguese sides for a place in the round of 16 of the continent’s top club competition, with only a one-goal margin to protect in Madrid.
Paquetá defended the Real Madrid player. “We talk a lot. It’s sad to see Vini having to live with and hear the things that happen to him. Those who know him know how lovely he is. People impose a burden on him that he shouldn’t carry. He’s the victim. Flamengo, his teammates and I are with him. We give him our full support.”
Vinicius’ contract with Real Madrid
It was nearly impossible in the past to see huge stars leave their clubs for free. That has changed recently, with Real Madrid’s moves for the biggest names, like Kylian Mbappé, as a notable example.
The Brazilian doesn’t have much time remaining on his contract. Vinicius’s deal runs until June 2027, so he could negotiate with other clubs soon if Real Madrid does not make a move. A return to Flamengo would not be outlandish, given the club’s financial muscle and big signings in recent years.
Vinicius was invited to a club by a teammate in Brazil
With Vinicius Junior and Aurelien Tchouameni as the goalscorers, Real Madrid secured a 2-1 win over Benfica in the UEFA Champions League playoffs.
Real Madrid and Benfica faced off Wednesday, February 25, at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium for the second leg of the 2025-26 Champions League playoffs. With Vinicius Junior once again finding the net alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni, Los Blancos punched their ticket to the Round of 16.
Needing at least one goal to force extra time, Benfica started fast and struck in the 14th minute. After a cross from Vangelis Pavlidis, Raúl Asencio deflected the ball toward his own net, forcing Thibaut Courtois into action, but Rafa Silva pounced on the rebound inside the box to open the scoring.
The match ended 2-1 (3-1 aggregate), sending Real Madrid through to the Champions League Round of 16 after a series filled with tension and drama. Next up, Los Blancos will be drawn against either Sporting CP or Manchester City.
Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid celebrates scoring against Benfica.
Cristiano Ronaldo refuses to fade quietly into soccer’s twilight. At 41 years old, he is still driving a title race, still commanding the spotlight, and still finding the net with ruthless regularity. On another tense away night in the Saudi Pro League, the Portuguese icon once again proved decisive to help Al-Nassr climb on top of […]
Cristiano Ronaldo refuses to fade quietly into soccer’s twilight. At 41 years old, he is still driving a title race, still commanding the spotlight, and still finding the net with ruthless regularity. On another tense away night in the Saudi Pro League, the Portuguese icon once again proved decisive to help Al-Nassr climb on top of the summit.
The fixture against Al-Najma was never going to be handed to the club. Away matches in Saudi Arabia demand discipline, resilience, and a refusal to underestimate the opponent. The home side has built a reputation for stubborn performances, particularly against stronger sides.
The stakes are crystal clear. Victory would send the club to the top of the Saudi Pro League, two points ahead of Al-Ahli and three ahead of Al-Hilal. The margin for error is minimal. The message was simple: handle business and return home as leaders. Early tension gripped the stadium when the referee halted play in the fifth minute. What followed was a sequence that electrified supporters both inside the ground and online, as the referee checked for a possible penalty.
There was no hesitation over who would step forward. Despite concerns over an earlier knock, the captain assumed responsibility. Thus, in the seventh minute, Cristiano Ronaldo converted from the spot to make it 1-0, calmly dispatching the opportunity and silencing any lingering doubt. It was another demonstration of composure under pressure, and another addition to a staggering personal tally.
That strike carried historic weight. It was Cristiano Ronaldo’s 965th career goal, a number that defies belief in modern soccer. Even more remarkably, it marked his 182nd career penalty conversion, underlining not just longevity but relentless efficiency.
At an age when most players have long since retired, Ronaldo continues to influence title races. His goal was not merely statistical padding — it reshaped the league standings. With the lead secured, the club positioned itself at the top of the Saudi Pro League table, exactly where it believes it belongs.
The Portuguese superstar’s dominance extends beyond a single match. He has now scored against 15 of the 17 Saudi Pro League teams this season, with only Al-Shabab and Al-Ahli yet to concede to him. Week after week, stadium after stadium, defenders have struggled to contain him.
Spain tried to convince Lionel Messi to play for them instead of Argentina.
Lionel Messi has remained one of the world’s biggest soccer stars for more than two decades. He built his club career with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter Miami, while continuing to shine with Argentina. However, things could have been very different if he had chosen to play for Spain.
Having moved to Barcelona at age 13 for treatment to stimulate his growth, Messi was eligible to represent the European country internationally—and he even had a concrete opportunity to do so.
During a recent interview with the Miro de Atras podcast, Messi acknowledged that he had contact with Spanish national team officials. “At one point it came to me. I was already playing at Barcelona, and they hinted at it,” he explained. “It’s normal, it happens with many kids, or at least it did back then.”
The forward added that representing Spain was not out of the question at the time. “Even though I’m Argentine, obviously, I went to Barcelona very young and spent most of my youth career there. So it was a possibility, it could have happened,” he admitted.
Messi made his international debut in 2005 with Argentina.
Indeed, Spain has had a clear influence on Messi’s life. After spending the first 13 years of his life in Rosario, Argentina, he moved to Barcelona and lived there continuously until age 34. Yet his roots ultimately weighed more in his decision. “Your desire was always for Argentina,” podcast host Nahuel Guzman remarked, to which Messi replied: “Yes, always.”
How many titles could Messi have won with Spain?
Lionel Messi made his debut with the Argentine jersey in a U-20 friendly in 2004. A year later, he became World Cup champion at that level and was named the tournament’s best player, while also making his official debut with the senior national team. The U-23 gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics was followed by four senior titles: Copa America 2021, Finalissima 2022, World Cup 2022, and Copa America 2024.
During the same period, Spain won a large number of trophies. At the youth level, they earned gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics (where three overage players are allowed), while at the senior level, they were champions of UEFA Euro 2008, 2012, and 2024, as well as the 2010 World Cup and the 2023 UEFA Nations League.
In 22 years, Messi has won six titles with Argentina, counting both youth and senior trophies. Hypothetically, had he chosen Spain, the forward would have won a similar number: one at the youth level and five with the senior team.
Messi’s matchups against Spain
Lionel Messi first faced Spain at the U-20 World Cup in the Netherlands in 2005, when Argentina won 3-1 in the quarterfinals with a goal from Messi. At the senior level, they met in two friendlies: a 2-1 victory for Spain in 2006 and a 4-1 win for Argentina in 2010, again with a Messi goal.
The head-to-head record currently favors the Argentine forward with two wins and one loss. However, this year will add a new chapter, as Argentina and Spain are set to meet in the Finalissima, the tournament that brings together the reigning champions of South America and Europe.
Despite Barcelona's offensive brilliance led by Lamine Yamal, they continue to struggle defensively. For this, they are looking to strengthen their back line, targeting a Serie A star. Ahead the 2026-27 season, they have reportedly received a positive update amid rumors of his renewal.
Barcelona have managed to stand out as one of the best attacking teams, led by Lamine Yamal, who has driven the side to its highest level, registering 15 goals and 14 assists in 33 matches. However, the Blaugranas have struggled considerably at the defensive level, prompting them to look to reinforce the back line. In that sense, they have reportedly received a positive update regarding a Serie A target amid contract renewal rumors.
According to Matteo Moretto, the Blaugranas are prioritizing the arrival of Alessandro Bastoni, who is viewed as the ideal reinforcement for the defense. Under contract until 2028, Inter Milan are not convinced about letting him leave and are instead seeking a contract extension. In response, the Italian defender has decided to pause talks, waiting to see ifBarcelona take concrete steps to secure his arrival.
Even though this gesture may be seen as minor, it could prove decisive in the upcoming negotiations. In case Barcelona decide to accelerate their move for Bastoni, Inter Milan could be forced to negotiate his transfer, as Alessandro could push for a departure in the summer of 2026. However, the Italian is not close to entering the final year of his contract, so Lamine Yamal’s team may be forced to pay around €80 million or more.
Bastoni’s emergence has reportedly cooled Barcelona’s interest in Niklas Süle. According to BILD, Real Madrid have taken the lead in the race for the defender, who is looking to leave Borussia Dortmund. Unlike the Italian, he could be available for €50–60 million, a significantly more accessible figure that would make negotiations simpler. However, the Blaugranas have decided to prioritize Alessandro, as they believe he would adapt more effectively.
Alessandro Bastoni of Inter.
Not only Bastoni: Barcelona reportedly eye Premier League defender
After a season marked by defensive instability, Barcelona are looking to make adjustments to their back line. With that in mind, they have set their sights on Alessandro Bastoni as their top priority target. However, the Blaugrana could find it quite difficult to secure his arrival, as Inter Milan consider him key to their future. In response to this, the Spanish side has reportedly added a Premier League star to their list of priorities.
According to TEAMtalk, Barcelona have decided to add Marcos Senesi to their list of targets. After shining at AFC Bournemouth, the Argentine has decided not to renew his contract, which means he could arrive as a free agent. Like Bastoni, the 28-year-old defender stands out not only for his solidity but also for his ability to play out from the back, fitting into Hansi Flick’s tactical ideas. Moreover, he is open to joining the Blaugrana, facilitating any negotiations.
Despite this, they could face strong competition for his signing. As per Football Insider, the Argentine has attracted interest from Tottenham Hotspur, Everton, Aston Villa, Newcastle, and even Chelsea. Because of this, Barcelona may have to make a swift decision: Go all-in for Bastoni despite his high valuation or secure Senesi’s arrival. This decision is far from simple, as it could shape the team’s performance next season.
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona warms up prior to the LaLiga EA Sports match.
The tension surrounding Ousmane Dembele has only intensified ahead of the decisive European night in Paris. Paris Saint-Germain returns home with a narrow advantage over Monaco in the Champions League playoff, yet one question has dominated the buildup: why won’t the French winger feature in a match that could define the club’s continental ambitions? The answer, initially […]
The tension surrounding Ousmane Dembele has only intensified ahead of the decisive European night in Paris. Paris Saint-Germain returns home with a narrow advantage over Monaco in the Champions League playoff, yet one question has dominated the buildup: why won’t the French winger feature in a match that could define the club’s continental ambitions? The answer, initially shrouded in uncertainty, has now emerged, and it could significantly reshape the tactical balance between PSG and Monaco.
The first leg at the Stade Louis II delivered drama from the opening whistle. Within 18 minutes, Monaco had stunned the defending champion by racing into a 2-0 lead, courtesy of a Folarin Balogun brace. PSG appeared rattled, facing the possibility of a damaging defeat in the Principality.
But the Parisian side responded with resilience befitting a European holder. Desire Doue emerged as the unlikely hero, turning the tide after being introduced early in the match. Achraf Hakimi equalized before Doue completed the comeback in the second half, sealing a remarkable 3-2 victory that handed PSG a slender aggregate lead heading into the return leg at the Parc des Princes.
The comeback was historic. It marked the first time this century that Luis Enrique’s players had overturned a two-goal deficit in a Champions League knockout fixture. Momentum carried into domestic competition, where PSG comfortably defeated Metz 3-0 to reclaim top spot in Ligue 1. Ironically, Monaco also helped PSG’s cause by defeating Lens 3-2 days later, indirectly assisting their rival’s climb to the summit.
The reason behind Dembele’s absence
PSG confirmed that Ousmane Dembele will miss the second leg due to a calf injury sustained in the first meeting. The French winger was withdrawn before the 30-minute mark in Monaco and has not recovered in time for the decisive clash.
According to club updates, the Frenchman has resumed individual training but remains unavailable. As reported by the club, “Dembele resumed individual training but won’t be an option for Wednesday’s second leg against Monaco in the Champions League.” The timing is particularly cruel given his importance to Luis Enrique’s attacking structure.
Head coach Luis Enrique and Ousmane Dembele of Paris Saint-Germain.
The absence is significant. Dembele’s early withdrawal in the first leg inadvertently altered the dynamic of the match, paving the way for Doue’s match-winning performance. Yet while that substitution proved decisive, replacing his explosiveness over a full match presents a different challenge.
Luis Enrique confirmed the winger’s status ahead of the fixture, explaining that caution prevailed over risk. Fabian Ruiz (knee), Senny Mayulu (calf), and Quentin Ndjantou (thigh) are also sidelined, further testing squad depth.
With Real Madrid having a key UEFA Champions League clash against Benfica, Kylian Mbappe will be one of the most notable absences.
Kylian Mbappé has arguably been Real Madrid‘s most important player in a 2025-26 campaign in which the team has struggled to meet expectations set at the start of the season. With Wednesday’s clash against Benfica shaping up as a decisive game that could determine Los Blancos’ fate in the UEFA Champions League, questions have arisen about why Mbappé has been left out.
The striker has been dealing with knee discomfort since last year, with an MRI later revealing damage to the lateral collateral ligament in his left knee. After missing two matches, Mbappé was able to return to the team, particularly for the Spanish Super Cup final, but the issue has resurfaced and now rules him out of the Benfica game.
The injury has become a major concern after Real Madrid released its squad list for Wednesday’s Champions League match against Benfica without Mbappé included. That means the Frenchman, in order to avoid further risk, won’t even be available off the bench.
Real Madrid’s squad list for the game against Benfica.
Mbappé, the biggest absence Real Madrid could suffer
In a season in which Xabi Alonso was already dismissed from his role as head coach, Kylian Mbappé has often been the lone player providing solutions with a consistently elite level of performance. His goal contributions have become a major talking point, with fans and media suggesting the team has grown dependent on him, and the numbers support that claim.
Of the 22 goals Real Madrid have scored in their Champions League campaign, 13 have come from Mbappé, making him the competition’s current top scorer. He also recorded an assist in the first leg against Benfica, bringing his total goal contributions to 14, more than 60% of Los Blancos’ goals in the tournament so far.
Who will replace Mbappé?
With Kylian Mbappé completely sidelined for the match, head coach Álvaro Arbeloa will have to find a solution to replace Real Madrid’s leading scorer this season. While it won’t be easy, the most obvious option appears to be Vinícius Júnior paired with Gonzalo García in attack, filling Mbappé’s spot.
Although they are very different striker profiles (Mbappé more mobile, García more of a traditional box finisher) Gonzalo García has already stepped in for Mbappé before. The 21-year-old has replaced him in the starting XI five times this season (including matches against Atlético Madrid and Barcelona in the Super Cup), producing six goals and one assist, showing strong efficiency when given a starting opportunity.
Carlos Baleba continues to be linked with a move away from Brighton at the end of the season.
Manchester United are interested in signing the talented young midfielder, and they are the strongest contenders to secure his signature. They need more physicality and defensive cover in the middle of the park, and Baleba would be an excellent addition.
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Carlos Baleba would be a superb signing
The Cameroon International has shown his quality in the Premier League, and he’s ready for the next step. Joining one of the biggest clubs in the world would be exciting for him. He could be the ideal alternative to players like Casemiro. Manuel Ugarte has been quite underwhelming, and Manchester United need an upgrade on him. Signing the Brighton star could be ideal.
As per TEAMtalk, the player is likely to cost around £70 million in the summer, and Manchester United have the financial muscle to get the deal done. It remains to be seen whether they can wrap up the move. Initially, the player was valued at £100 million, but Brighton are expected to lower their asking price in the summer.
Carlos Baleba in action for Brighton last season (Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images)
Manchester United are looking to build a team for the future, and the 22-year-old would be an exceptional signing. He has proven himself with Brighton, and he is ready for the next step. Joining Manchester United could help him improve further and fulfil his potential. They have done well to grow young players in the past, and they could help the African improve in the coming months.
It remains to be seen if any other club is willing to compete for his signature in the summer.
Chelsea are interested in signing Aurelien Tchouameni from Real Madrid at the end of the season.
According to reports, the Spanish outfit is unwilling to sanction the departure of the French International, and they would only consider selling him if the player formally requests a move.
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Chelsea keen on Aurelien Tchouameni
Meanwhile, Chelsea is looking to make a statement in the transfer market and is prepared to sign the player at the end of the season. They are ready to offer a substantial contract to the French international to convince him to sign. The midfielder is aware of the interest from the Premier League club, but he remains committed to the Real Madrid project.
It will be interesting to see if Chelsea can convince him to leave the club at the end of the season.
They could use more control and physicality in the middle of the park. The French international will add defensive steel to the team. He is at the peak of his career, and he could make an immediate impact in the Premier League. He has been linked with a move to England in the past.
Aurelien Tchouameni in action for Real Madrid (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Tchouameni is considered an indispensable asset for the Spanish club, and it seems highly unlikely that he will be allowed to leave in the summer. The player is unlikely to force and exit either.
It remains to be seen whether Chelsea decides to move on to other targets. They need to further improve their team if they want to win league titles or the UEFA Champions League. There is no doubt that the French international would have been a transformative addition for them in the middle of the park, but they will struggle to get the deal across the line.
Manchester United are looking to sign Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United.
According to reports, Manchester United are looking to improve the team during the summer transfer window, but they are also looking to weaken a rival. Tonali and Gordon have been exceptional for Newcastle since joining the club, and losing both players would be devastating for the Tyneside club.
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Man United plot move for Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali
Manchester United could offer around €170 million in order to sign the two players. It will be interesting to see if they can get the deal across the line. Newcastle are looking to build a formidable team for the future and will hope to fight for major trophies. Selling their best players to a rival club will not be on their agenda.
However, the two players could be attracted to the idea of joining a bigger club. Manchester United are among the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to play for them will be hard to turn down. If a lucrative proposal is made in the summer, Newcastle could be under significant pressure to let the two players leave.
Anthony Gordon in action for Newcastle (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Manchester United are looking to return to the Champions League at the end of the season and will fight for major trophies next season. They need top-quality players at their disposal, and the likes of Gordon and Tonali could be very useful.
Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing the Juventus defender, Andrea Cambiaso.
The 26-year-old full-back has been linked with a move away from Italy, and Liverpool have been mentioned as a potential destination. According to reports, Liverpool has made enquiries about the full-back, and it will be interesting to see whether they decide to make an official offer to secure the deal.
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The Italian is at the peak of his career, and he has proven himself at a big club like Juventus. Meanwhile, Real Madrid is also monitoring his development. It will be interesting to see the Spanish giants decide to make a move for him. They need more quality in the full-back areas, and the 26-year-old Italian could be a useful acquisition.
There is no doubt that he is a quality player, but the asking price is quite steep. It will be interesting to see if Liverpool or Real Madrid is willing to pay up. The 26-year-old is at the peak of his career, and he might be able to justify the investment.
Andrea Cambiaso of Juventus in action (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Cambiaso has shown his quality in Italy, and he could be attracted to the idea of taking on a new challenge now. The opportunity to play in the Premier League or La Liga will be exciting for him. It remains to be seen where he ends up. Both clubs could provide him with a competitive platform and the opportunity to fight for major trophies.
However, it is fair to assume that Juventus might have to be more reasonable in their demands for any move to go through.
Following Robert Lewandowski's dip in form, Barcelona have reportedly been on the lookout for a world-class striker to replace him. Even though Julián Alavez emerges as the favorite, the Blaugranas are reportedly adding a Manchester City star as an alternative.
Throughout the 2025-26 season, Barcelona have managed to shine offensively, with players in top form such as Ferran Torres, Marcus Rashford, Lamine Yamal, and Fermin Lopez. Despite this, Robert Lewandowski’s level has dropped significantly, raising doubts about his future. For that reason, Hansi Flick‘s team has even pointed to Julian Alvarez as their favorite candidate. However, they have reportedly added a Manchester City star as an alternative to the Argentine.
According to Diario Sport, the Blaugranas are keeping Julián Álvarez as their priority target to strengthen the attack. Despite this, Atlético Madrid would not be entirely willing to let him leave, reportedly asking for around €150 million for his transfer. While Hansi Flick’s team would be prepared to pay a significant fee, that valuation from Los Colchoneros could ultimately prove prohibitive. In light of this, they have already set their sights on a Manchester City star.
Barcelona have decided to pursue the signing of Omar Marmoush from Manchester City as an alternative to Álvarez, Diario Sport reports. Following the arrival of Antoine Semenyo, the Egyptian has lost prominence in the starting lineup, usually serving as a backup to Erling Haaland and playing just 895 minutes this season. Although he is not at his best at the moment, the club’s scouting department believes the player could be a perfect fit for Hansi Flick.
Marmoush has already been a target for the Blaugranas in previous seasons, so this is not the first time he has emerged as strong candidate. Having shined at Eintracht Frankfurt, Hansi Flick had reportedly requested his signing in January 2025, but he ultimately chose to join the Citizens instead. After failing to make his mark in the Premier League, they could now be willing to sell him for less than the €75 million they paid — a far more accessible figure for Barcelona.
Omar Marmoush of Manchester City looks on during the Premier League match.
Omar Marmoush’s struggles raise doubts, but Bundesliga past excites
Despite arriving for €75 million, Omar Marmoush has raised serious doubts at Manchester City. After joining midway through the 2024–25 season, he played just 25 matches, scoring eight goals and providing three assists. The Egyptian was expected to have a greater impact in the 2025–26 campaign, but he has managed only four goals and two assists in 24 appearances.While this may generate concerns in Barcelona, his past in the Bundesliga remains highly exciting.
Unlike his spell at the Citizens, the Egyptian made a commanding impact at Eintracht Frankfurt.Across 67 matches, Omar scored 37 goals and provided 20 assists, showcasing his ability to influence games both as a scorer and as a creator, in a profile quite similar to Ferran Torres. For that reason, Hansi Flick would aim to recover his best version while maintaining top-level tactical flexibility, making his arrival promising.
Julian Alvarez of Atletico de Madrid looks dejected in LaLiga game.
Leon Goretzka continues to be linked with a move away from Bayern Munich at the end of the season.
The 31-year-old German International will be out of contract in the summer, and he is a target for Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Inter Milan. Arsenal tried to sign the player during the January transfer window, but the German International promised Bayern Munich that he would stay put until the end of the season.
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Can Arsenal sign Leon Goretzka?
It will be interesting to see if Arsenal decide to come back for him at the end of the season. They could use more physicality and drive in the middle of the park, and the 31-year-old could be a useful short-term acquisition. He has plenty of experience and quality at the highest level. Goretzka has been described as a “machine” by Sami Khedira.
Goretzka has won several major trophies throughout his career, and there is no doubt that he is good enough to play for Arsenal. They are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to join them will be exciting for Goretzka. This could be his final opportunity to play for an elite club and fight for major trophies.
It will be interesting to see which of the two clubs can get the deal done. The opportunity to join Inter Milan could be exciting as well. They are one of the biggest clubs in Italy and have regularly fought for major trophies.
Signing a player of his quality and experience for free would be a masterstroke for any club. It remains to be seen where he ends up.
Verdict: Bournemouth win Best Odds: 4/5 Bookmaker: Luckster Looking to extend on their European charge on Saturday afternoon, Bournemouth will welcome Sunderland to the Vitality. Bournemouth Starting with the hosts, while Bournemouth might have found themselves at the heart of a public struggle on either side of opening the New Year, Andoni Iraola’s men have […]
Verdict: Newcastle United win Best Odds: 4/5 Bookmaker: Dachbet Turning their attention back to Premier League action on Saturday afternoon, Newcastle will welcome Everton to St. James’ Park. Newcastle United Starting with the hosts, extending on their Champions League adventure earlier in the week as they stormed their way to a thumping 9-3 aggregate win […]
Verdict: Goal to be scored in both halves Best Odds: 7/10 Bookmaker: Olympusbet Looking to keep their Premier League title charge alive on Saturday evening, Manchester City will travel to Elland Road when they meet Leeds. Leeds United Starting with the hosts, while Leeds might have opened up the New Year facing a real battle […]
Amid internal conflicts in Mexico, FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed the country’s organization of the 2026 World Cup.
In recent days, Mexico has made headlines around the world for reasons unrelated to soccer. Internal unrest in the country has raised questions about its ability to stage an event as massive as the 2026 World Cup, but FIFA President Gianni Infantino delivered a reassuring message on the matter.
“First of all, of course we are analyzing and monitoring the situation in Mexico at this time,” Infantino acknowledged during a press conference shared by El Chiringuito TV on X. “Mexico is a great country, a soccer country. As in every country in the world, things happen. We don’t live on the moon or on another planet, things happen. That’s why we have states, police forces, and authorities who guarantee order and security.”
The FIFA president then expressed strong confidence that everything will proceed as planned, allowing the World Cup to take place without issues. “From the beginning, we have full confidence in Mexico, in its President Sheinbaum, and in the authorities. We are convinced that everything will go in the best possible way,” he said.
Far from casting doubt on Mexico as a host of the FIFA tournament, Gianni Infantino also confirmed the upcoming events scheduled to take place in the country. “We have matches in a month in Mexico, the World Cup playoffs. And the Azteca Stadium will be inaugurated newly renovated,” he added.
Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre.
“From my side and from FIFA, there is absolute confidence in President Sheinbaum in Mexico. We are in regular contact with the presidency and the authorities, and we continue to follow the situation closely,” Infantino concluded, expressing certainty that FIFA’s original plans will not need to be altered.
Upcoming events in Mexico
This Wednesday at Corregidora Stadium in Queretaro, Mexico will play its third friendly of 2026 against Iceland. Despite the recent unrest in the country, the match will go on as scheduled. The expectation is that the same will apply to the other upcoming events set to take place in Mexico.
During the March international break, Mexico will face Portugal at Azteca Stadium, while the intercontinental playoffs will be held simultaneously to determine two additional teams qualified for the World Cup. In Guadalajara, New Caledonia, Jamaica, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo will compete for one spot, while in Monterrey, Bolivia, Suriname, and Iraq will battle for the other.
And, of course, during the World Cup Mexico will play a major role. The country is set to host 10 group-stage matches, including the opening game on June 11 between Mexico and South Africa, in addition to three more matches in the knockout stages.
Real Madrid receive Benfica in the second leg of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League knockout phase play-offs. Here’s everything you need to know about kickoff times, plus how to watch the match live on TV or stream it in the United States.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Real Madrid vs Benfica on US television and via legal streaming:
A one-goal cushion is all that separates survival from elimination as the second leg of this knockout showdown gets underway. Real Madrid return to action holding a slim 1-0 advantage, but Benfica remain well within reach of turning the tie around.
Tensions are still simmering after controversy in the first meeting, including an alleged remark from Gianluca Prestiani aimed at Vinicius Jr, adding even more edge to an already high-stakes clash. Madrid look to protect its lead and close the deal, while Benficaneed a statement performance to flip the script.
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Paramount+ is now offering a 7-day free trial promotion for new subscribers, giving fans the ability to watch a ton of soccer fans (and other content) for free.
After the 7-day trial, Paramount+ is just $7.99 per month.
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Paramount+ includes exclusive original programs such as: Halo, Star Trek: Discovery, Frasier, Lawmen: Bass Reeves, and Evil, as well as movies including Mean Girls, Mission: Impossible Dead Reckoning and more. You can also stream CBSN (CBS News), CBS Sports HQ and ET Live, as well as — with the Premium Plan — your local CBS network.
Paramount+ is available on PC or Mac as well as Roku, iPhone and Android phones, Apple TV, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, PlayStation 4, Samsung smart TV, Vizio and XBOX One.
If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full Paramount+ soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
Here are the steps to sign up for your 7-day free trial to Paramount+:
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Amar Dedic of Benfica reacts towards Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid
PSG will square off with Monaco in the second leg of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League knockout phase play-offs. Here’s everything you need to know about kickoff times, plus how to watch the match live on TV or stream it in the United States.
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Momentum has swung toward Paris Saint-Germain, and now the reigning champions return home holding a narrow 3-2 edge after surviving a five-goal showdown away from Paris. That gritty road performance flipped the pressure squarely onto their opponents, setting the stage for a high-stakes second leg in front of a packed Paris crowd eager to see their club finish the job.
Still, AS Monaco proved in the opener they can stretch PSG’s back line and dictate tempo for extended stretches, and with the deficit sitting at just one goal, Monaco are expected to attack relentlessly from the opening whistle in pursuit of a stunning comeback. Expect urgency, intensity, and no shortage of drama.
More details on how to watch
Paramount+ is now offering a 7-day free trial promotion for new subscribers, giving fans the ability to watch a ton of soccer fans (and other content) for free.
After the 7-day trial, Paramount+ is just $7.99 per month.
Paramount+ features more than 2,000 live matches each year. In addition to Serie A, the extensive portfolio of soccer properties also includes EFL Championship, EFL League One, EFL League Two, Coppa Italia, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League and UEFA Europa Conference League; NWSL; and much more.
Paramount+ includes exclusive original programs such as: Halo, Star Trek: Discovery, Frasier, Lawmen: Bass Reeves, and Evil, as well as movies including Mean Girls, Mission: Impossible Dead Reckoning and more. You can also stream CBSN (CBS News), CBS Sports HQ and ET Live, as well as — with the Premium Plan — your local CBS network.
Paramount+ is available on PC or Mac as well as Roku, iPhone and Android phones, Apple TV, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, PlayStation 4, Samsung smart TV, Vizio and XBOX One.
If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full Paramount+ soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
Here are the steps to sign up for your 7-day free trial to Paramount+:
If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.
Free resources available to you
World Soccer Talk is the number one destination in the United States for soccer television and streaming information. We recommend that you bookmark our soccer games on TV today page as well as subscribing to our free daily email newsletter that includes TV schedules and the latest soccer news and opinion from around the world.
To find out when soccer games are on, download the free Soccer TV Schedules App which includes listings of all of the live soccer matches available in the United States (available on Apple iOS devices and Android devices).
Juventus take on Galatasaray in the second leg of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League knockout phase play-offs. Here’s everything you need to know about kickoff times, plus how to watch the match live on TV or stream it in the United States.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Juventus vs Galatasaray on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
Juventus vs Galatasaray
WHAT
UEFA Champions League
WHEN
3:00pm ET / 12:00pm PT • Wednesday, February 23, 2026
The pressure is squarely on Juventusheading into the second leg of this knockout play-off, with their European hopes hanging by a thread. After suffering a heavy 5-2 defeat on the road, the Italian giants return home knowing only a three-goal victory will punch their ticket to the Round of 16.
Meanwhile, Galatasarayarrive with momentum and confidence after a ruthless first-leg display that flipped what many expected to be a tightly contested matchup into a steep uphill climb for the hosts. With survival at stake and a roaring crowd behind them, Juventus will throw everything forward in what promises to be a high-stakes, high-drama showdown.
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With Fubo, you can watch Juventus vs Galatasaray and tons more games. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, Apple TV or hook it up to your TV with Google Chromecast.
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Plus Fubo, the legal streaming service, also streams Liga MX, World Cup, Women’s World Cup, MLS, UEFA Champions League (in Spanish), Europa League (in Spanish), Primeira Liga, Ligue Un, World Cup qualifiers, NWSL, select USMNT games, select USWNT games, select Mexico games, select England games and more.
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If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full Fubo soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
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If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.
Free resources available to you
World Soccer Talk is the number one destination in the United States for soccer television and streaming information. We recommend that you bookmark our soccer games on TV today page as well as subscribing to our free daily email newsletter that includes TV schedules and the latest soccer news and opinion from around the world.
To find out when soccer games are on, download the free Soccer TV Schedules App which includes listings of all of the live soccer matches available in the United States (available on Apple iOS devices and Android devices).
Betting on the future, Liverpool decided to back Florian Wirtz as one of their most important cornerstones, paying a multimillion transfer fee. However, the player’s agent has made surprising statements that bring him closer to Real Madrid in the future.
After several successful years, Liverpool opted for Arne Slot to rebuild the roster, seeking a proper generational transition for a squad that already appears to be aging. In this context, they decided to move for Florian Wirtz, paying €125 million for his transfer from Bayer Leverkusen. Even though the Reds see him as the cornerstone of the team, the player’s agent made surprising statements that could bring him closer to Real Madrid.
“That year, it simply wasn’t the right time due to the squad and the budget. Even Real Madrid’s coffers aren’t always overflowing. But my wish remains that Florian will play there one day. I wasn’t deeply enough involved in the offers that were on the table. My greatest wish, of course, would have been to have Florian at Real Madrid to see… He’s doing quite well in Liverpool now… who knows what might happen in his career,” Volker Struth said, via Phrasenmaher podcast.
With a contract with Liverpool until 2030, Florian Wirtz would find it difficult to leave the team in the near future. In addition, coach Arne Slot has decided to give him a priority role either as an attacking midfielder or left winger. Despite this, the German is struggling to shine in England, scoring six goals and providing eight assists in 35 games. Along with this, los Blancos have not made any recent approaches to the player, casting doubt on this possibility.
Although Wirtz is expected to continue, the statements from Volker Struth, his agent, could signal potential future drama if a formal offer from Real Madrid were to arrive. Despite this, Florian has decided to stay out of the situation, as he is focused on regaining his best form at Liverpool. In addition, the 22-year-old midfielder has earned praise from Slot, who acknowledged his great effort to raise his level compared to his first matches.
Florian Wirtz of Liverpool looks on during the Premier League match.
Liverpool may build around Wirtz, chasing solid reinforcements
Alongside the arrival of Wirtz, the Reds decided to sign world-class players such as Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez and the young prospect Giovanni Leoni. Despite this, the German has emerged as one of the main figures in the attack, becoming one of its central pillars. In addition, Liverpool could aim for a roster rebuild, allowing key players to leave in order to reconstruct the squad around the 22-year-old star with specific players.
According to various British media reports, the Reds are open to letting Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Federico Chiesa leave, seeking a major replacement in the offense. With this, they would be targeting Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig as a key player on the left wing. Alongside him, Liverpool could be targeting Desire Doue, Bradley Barcola, or Nico Williams for the right wing. Slot could seek to better surround Wirtz, bringing out the best in him.
Florian Wirtz of Liverpool looks on during the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match.
After being defeated in the first leg, José Mourinho’s Benfica face Real Madrid aiming to overturn the tie and secure their place in the Round of 16. However, the Portuguese side will have to take on this challenge without Gianluca Prestianni in their starting lineup.
Although the first leg was fairly even, Vinícius Jr. proved to be the decisive factor in Real Madrid’s attack, scoring an impressive goal to hand his side the advantage. Nevertheless, Benfica remain in contention, as the deficit is only one goal, and they will look to overturn the tie in today’s match. Far from being a straightforward encounter, Benfica’s José Mourinho will be unable to count on Gianluca Prestianni in the second leg of the Champions League clash.
Following Vinícius Jr.’s complaint of racial discrimination against Gianluca Prestianni, UEFA has imposed a provisional suspension, ruling him out of the second leg. While Benfica chose to appeal the sanction, the organization decided to reject the appeal, effectively sidelining him. In addition, they are still conducting a formal investigation to determine whether any racist acts occurred during the first leg at the Estádio da Luz.
In the Argentine’s absence, coach José Mourinho could turn to Dodi Lukebakio, who has scored two goals and provided four assists in 15 matches this season. As a result, Benfica may look to be decisive on the counterattack, aiming to exploit the spaces in behind. In addition, the Belgian broke his silence regarding the Brazilian’s accusation against Prestianni, stating that he hopes his teammate is innocent, as he would not accept an injustice of that magnitude.
Gianluca Prestianni’s absence may be perceived as unfair given that he has not been found guilty, yet it could also ease the atmosphere inside the stadium. With the match taking place at the Santiago Bernabéu, the Argentine might have faced whistles, protests, and even heavy challenges from opposing players. For that reason, his presence could ultimately have harmed Benfica more than helped them.
Gianluca Prestianni of SL Benfica and Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid.
Benfica president Manuel Rui Costa stands firm by Prestianni’s side
Throughout the week, several players and former players have heavily criticized Gianluca Prestianni, claiming that covering his mouth to argue suggests negative things. Despite this, Benfica have decided to support the Argentine, issuing a strong statement.Additionally, they have decided that the player will travel with the team as a protest against UEFA’s decision. Along with this, president Manuel Rui Costa expressed his support for the player in a statement.
“Although it’s a game situation, it’s also a human situation, but that doesn’t diminish Benfica’s anti-racist stance in any way. Benfica would never have racist player in their squad. Throughout its history, Benfica have been an example of inclusion and against racism. It has an African player [Eusebio] as its greatest symbol. Prestianni isn’t racist, and if he were, I’d be the first to take a stand,” Rui Costa said, via Record PT.
While Prestianni missed the second leg against Real Madrid, he has not yet been found guilty. As this is a very sensitive matter, UEFA could take some time to make a decision, since statements will be taken from several players due to the lack of conclusive video or audio evidence. The Argentine would even be considering filing a defamation complaint against Vinícius Jr., reports TyC Sports.
Gianluca Prestianni of Benfica in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26.
Al Najma square off with Al Nassr on Matchday 10 of the 2025/2026 Saudi Pro League campaign. Supporters in the United States can find everything they need to watch the showdown, including kickoff times and full broadcast information for television and streaming platforms.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Al Najma vs Al Nassr on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
Al Najma vs Al Nassr
WHAT
Saudi Pro League
WHEN
2:00pm ET / 11:00am PT • Wednesday, February 25, 2026
It’s another high-stakes night in the Saudi Pro League as Al Nassr look to protect their grip on first place. Cristiano Ronaldo’s squad surged to the top after a dominant 4-0 win over Al Hazem, helped by Al Hilal dropping points against Al Ittihad.
But the margin is slim, especially after Al Ahli stayed within reach by beating Damac. Next up is last-place Al Najma, desperate to spark a turnaround with just eight points. With the title race tightening, don’t miss this crucial showdown.
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With Fubo, you can watch Al Najma vs Al Nassr and tons more games. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, Apple TV or hook it up to your TV with Google Chromecast.
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If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full Fubo soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
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To find out when soccer games are on, download the free Soccer TV Schedules App which includes listings of all of the live soccer matches available in the United States (available on Apple iOS devices and Android devices).
A crucial Saudi Pro League clash is set to unfold as Al-Najma prepares to welcome Al-Nassr in a match that could shape both ends of the table. With the hosts fighting for survival and the visitors pushing for the title, all eyes will be on the star-studded lineup expected to travel for this fixture. Among […]
A crucial Saudi Pro League clash is set to unfold as Al-Najma prepares to welcome Al-Nassr in a match that could shape both ends of the table. With the hosts fighting for survival and the visitors pushing for the title, all eyes will be on the star-studded lineup expected to travel for this fixture. Among the names generating the most intrigue is Cristiano Ronaldo, whose availability and role remain a major talking point ahead of kickoff.
The meeting between Al-Najma and Al-Nassr represents a dramatic contrast in fortunes. Al-Najma sits at the bottom of the Saudi Pro League with just eight points from 22 matches, while Al-Nassr is among the title contenders with more than 50 points and a strong winning streak.
The newly promoted side has endured a difficult campaign, struggling to adapt to top-flight action. With just one win, five draws, and 16 defeats, its survival hopes are fading fast. Defensive frailties have plagued them all season, conceding more than 40 goals and struggling to find tactical stability under head coach Nestor El Maestro.
In contrast, Al-Nassr has been one of the dominant forces in the league, winning the majority of its matches and conceding very few goals. Under Jorge Jesus, the team has developed into a disciplined, possession-based unit capable of overwhelming opponents both offensively and defensively.
Will Cristiano Ronaldo play?
The biggest question surrounding this match has been whether Cristiano Ronaldo will play and how he will be used. Cristiano Ronaldo will start alongside Joao Felix in attack, supported by wide players Sadio Mane and Kingsley Coman. This setup underlines Al-Nassr’s attacking ambition and highlights Ronaldo’s continued importance at 41 years old.
The veteran forward has been in remarkable scoring form, with 20 league goals this season, trailing Julian Quinones (21) and Ivan Toney (23) in the Golden Boot race. His recent brace in the previous match against Al-Hazem further confirmed that age has not diminished his finishing instincts.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix in win over Al-Kholood
The Santiago Bernabeu is preparing for a European night charged with tension, controversy, and uncertainty. With a place in the UEFA Champions League last 16 on the line, Real Madrid and Benfica arrive with more than just tactical questions to answer. Vinicius has been at the center of a storm both on and off the […]
The Santiago Bernabeu is preparing for a European night charged with tension, controversy, and uncertainty. With a place in the UEFA Champions League last 16 on the line, Real Madrid and Benfica arrive with more than just tactical questions to answer. Vinicius has been at the center of a storm both on and off the pitch, while Kylian Mbappe’s status has triggered anxiety among fans and analysts alike. As the two clubs prepare for the decisive clash, the question remains: who will take the field when the whistle blows?
Real Madrid returns home with a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first leg in Lisbon, where Vinicius scored the decisive goal. However, the narrative was overshadowed by allegations that Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni racially abused the Brazilian forward, an incident that sparked global outrage and a UEFA investigation.
Vinicius responded defiantly on social media, writing that “racists are above all cowards”, while Mbappe publicly backed his teammate and claimed he heard Prestianni call him a racial slur. The Argentine winger has denied the accusations, but UEFA has suspended him for the second leg, with a longer ban still possible.
Benfica head coach Jose Mourinho further inflamed tensions by criticizing Vinicius’ goal celebration, insisting it was disrespectful. Adding another layer of drama, Mourinho will not be on the touchline at the Bernabeu after being sent off in the first leg for angrily protesting officiating decisions. Without the experienced Portuguese tactician, the Eagles face a daunting task in hostile territory, needing to overturn a deficit against the record 15-time Champions League winner.
Will Vinicius and Kylian Mbappe play?
Vinicius is expected to start and lead the attack, continuing his scoring streak and emotional response to recent events. The Brazilian has scored in four consecutive matches and will be central to Madrid’s game plan.
Kylian Mbappe, however, will miss the match due to a knee injury sustained in training, with tests confirming it would be “impossible” for him to feature. According to L’Equipe, the French forward experienced persistent pain and was forced to stop training, leading to a decision to rest him to avoid long-term damage.
Arbeloa had earlier insisted Mbappe was fit, saying: “Kylian is ready to play tomorrow… He’s a game-changer.” But the latest medical assessment forced a dramatic U-turn, and the forward is now expected to miss at least three matches.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Vinicius Junior.
Injury crisis and squad depth
Real Madrid arrives with several key absences as Jude Bellingham, Dani Ceballos, and Eder Militao are sidelined with injuries, while Rodrygo is suspended. Defender Dean Huijsen remains a major doubt.
The Portuguese giant, by contrast, has fewer injury concerns. Joao Veloso is the only major absentee, while suspended Prestianni is the key missing piece from Mourinho’s attack. Vangelis Pavlidis, who has 28 goals in all competitions, will spearhead the frontline.
ianluca Prestianni of Benfica speaks towards Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid
Real Madrid vs. Benfica: confirmed lineups
Real Madrid confirmed XI (4-4-2): Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Asencio, Rudiger, Carreras; Valverde, Guler, Tchouameni, Camavinga; Gonzalo Garcia, Vinicius.
Everton are weighing up the possibility of bringing John Stones back to Goodison Park, nearly a decade after his departure to Manchester City, according to Football Insider.
However, while the romantic element of the deal is undeniable, financial and fitness considerations could complicate negotiations.
John Stones has been highly successful at Man City
When Stones left Everton for £47.5 million in August 2016, he was a raw, highly talented ball playing defender.
Under Pep Guardiola, he evolved into one of the most tactically astute players in world football.
During his ten years at City, Stones amassed a staggering collection of silverware, including six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four EFL Cups, the Club World Cup, and the 2022/2023 UEFA Champions League as part of a historic treble.
His crowning achievement at City was his seamless transition into a hybrid defender-midfielder.
His composure to step into the midfield, dictate play, and break opposition lines was a cornerstone of Guardiola’s tactical setup during their most dominant stretches.
In recent years, Stones has been severely hampered by persistent muscle injuries.
He made just 11 Premier League appearances last season and has seen limited minutes in the 2025/2026 campaign, prompting City to sign reinforcements like Marc Guéhi and look toward the future.
Everton supporters would welcome Stones with open arms
John Stones in action for Manchester City (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
While a free transfer removes the need for a transfer fee for Everton, it does not necessarily make the deal easy for David Moyes’ side.
Reports suggest Stones would likely command a substantial signing-on bonus and maintain high wage expectations, reflective of his status and experience.
A return to Merseyside would resonate strongly with supporters who remember his formative years at Goodison Park.
For Everton, signing a player with leadership credentials and title-winning pedigree could provide both defensive reinforcement and symbolic momentum.
Stones could win another Premier League title in possibly his final season at the club as City compete against Arsenal for the league title.
Borussia Dortmund are preparing for what could be a crucial summer transfer window, with midfielder Felix Nmecha emerging as one of the club’s most valuable assets.
According to Bild, Dortmund would demand a fee in the region of €70 million to consider selling the 25-year-old, who has attracted interest from Premier League giants Chelsea and Manchester United.
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Nmecha’s situation is described as delicate following his recent move to an England-based agency, a development that has inevitably intensified speculation about a possible switch to the Premier League.
Felix Nmecha is a key asset for Borussia Dortmund
Borussia Dortmund signed Nmecha from Wolfsburg in 2023 as part of a long-term midfield rebuild.
Since then, the Germany international has developed into a physically dominant, tactically versatile presence in the centre of the park.
Capable of operating as a defensive No. 6 or a box-to-box No. 8, Nmecha combines size, athleticism and progressive ball-carrying.
Jadon Sancho’s future is once again a major talking point ahead of the summer transfer window, with Football Insider suggesting the winger would welcome a return to Borussia Dortmund if the opportunity arises.
Sancho’s time in the Premier League has been inconsistent, marked by high expectations following his big-money switch from Dortmund to Manchester United and subsequent loan spells at Chelsea and Aston Villa.
Jadon Sancho has struggled in the Premier League
Man United invested heavily in Sancho when they signed him from Borussia Dortmund, expecting him to replicate the explosive form he displayed in the Bundesliga.
However, adaptation issues, managerial changes and fluctuating confidence limited his impact.
Loan spells at Chelsea and Aston Villa followed. While his start at Villa Park was subdued, recent performances have shown glimpses of the creative spark that once made him one of Europe’s most sought-after young talents.
Jadon Sancho is on loan at Aston Villa from Man United (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)
Dortmund represents more than just a former club, it is where Sancho’s reputation was forged.
His combination of flair, vision and directness flourished in the Bundesliga’s transitional style.
A reunion could provide the structured environment and tactical clarity that once brought out his best football.
Interest is not confined to Germany. Several Premier League clubs and Serie A sides are reportedly monitoring his situation, intrigued by the prospect of signing a technically gifted winger without a transfer fee.
Trevoh Chalobah could find himself at the centre of transfer speculation this summer, with Chelsea reportedly prepared to consider offers for the defender if they secure another senior centre-back.
Aston Villa are understood to be monitoring the situation closely, viewing the 26-year-old as a strong addition to Unai Emery’s defensive unit, according to Football Insider.
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While Chalobah remains a valued squad member at Stamford Bridge, the club’s depth in central defense, coupled with potential incoming signings, may create a pathway for his departure.
Changes are expected in defense at Chelsea
Chelsea are currently navigating extensive depth in defensive positions.
The return to fitness of Levi Colwill has intensified competition for starting positions, and further reinforcements could make minutes even harder to secure.
Chalobah’s versatility, capable of operating centrally or on the right side of a back three, has long been appreciated.
Should a high-profile centre-back arrive, the club may consider cashing in to balance finances and streamline the squad.
Aston Villa are believed to be leading the race. Emery’s side are aiming to consolidate their defensive consistency as they continue pushing for European qualification.
Villa’s tactical framework demands defenders who are comfortable in possession while remaining physically assertive, qualities Chalobah offers.
His previous loan spell at Crystal Palace demonstrated his ability to adapt to different defensive systems.
Villa see him as an upgrade capable of adding composure and recovery pace to their backline.
At 26, Chalobah is entering his prime years. For Villa, the opportunity to secure a player with top-flight and European experience could represent significant value.
Manchester United are reportedly evaluating a summer move for Nottingham Forest playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White, as the club begin mapping out potential changes in their attacking midfield department, according to Daily Mail.
With uncertainty surrounding the long-term future of captain Bruno Fernandes, United are believed to be identifying contingency options and Gibbs-White has emerged as a leading candidate.
The England international’s contract reportedly contains a £60 million release clause, signed after previous transfer interest from Tottenham.
That clause could prove pivotal if United decide to formalise their interest.
Morgan Gibbs-White has impressed in the Premier League
Man United are searching for creativity balanced with work ethic, and Gibbs-White offers both.
His influence at Nottingham Forest has been significant, combining flair in possession with relentless pressing out of it.
Unlike traditional No. 10s who operate exclusively between the lines, Gibbs-White thrives in multiple roles.
He can function centrally, drift wide on either flank, or drop deeper to assist in buildup phases. His adaptability would provide tactical flexibility in a modern, high-intensity system.
Equally important is his defensive commitment. Known for tracking back and pressing aggressively, he follows the demands of contemporary Premier League football.
Danny Murphy has described Gibbs-White as a ‘special’ player in the past.
Given his age profile and proven Premier League pedigree, any transfer pursuit is likely to spark competitive bidding.
Fernandes remains central to United’s creative structure, but with his contract running until 2027 and ongoing speculation about lucrative overseas offers, the Red Devils are making plans for the future.
United are preparing for change and Gibbs-White is firmly in their sights.
Manchester United’s plans for a significant midfield overhaul this summer have placed Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Nmecha firmly on their radar.
According to SportBild, the Red Devils are monitoring the 25-year-old as they prepare for potential departures in the defensive midfield department.
With Casemiro set to leave when his contract expires and uncertainty surrounding Manuel Ugarte’s role, United are expected to prioritise reinforcements capable of bringing physicality and athleticism to the centre of the pitch.
Man United are set to make changes in the midfield
Man United are entering a transitional phase in midfield. Casemiro’s anticipated exit marks the end of an era, while Ugarte’s limited opportunities have fuelled speculation about his own future.
Nmecha, who is reportedly open to a move to the Premier League and has recently aligned with an English-based agency, fits that description.
Dortmund are reportedly seeking at least £61 million to sanction a sale, reflecting both his age and potential.
Nmecha could add a strong, athletic presence to United
Felix Nmecha celebrates a goal for Borussia Dortmund (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
Borussia Dortmund signed Nmecha from Wolfsburg in 2023 for approximately £26 million, and his development in the Bundesliga has attracted attention across Europe.
Standing at 6’4”, Nmecha offers an imposing physical presence. His athletic credentials are equally impressive, with a recorded top speed of 35.4 km/h this season, an indicator of his mobility despite his frame.
Tactically, he provides versatility. Comfortable as a defensive No. 6, he can also operate as a box-to-box No. 8 or push forward to contribute in advanced phases.
He could be the ideal presence in the Man United midfield who are looking for not only strength but also someone who is agile and can pass the ball in forward positions.
Prediction: Match to end in 1-1 draw Best Odds: 13/2 Bookmaker: Zetbet Arsenal and Chelsea will lock horns with each other in the Premier League this weekend. The match between Mikel Arteta’s side and Liam Rosenior’s team will be held at the Emirates Stadium in North London and is scheduled to kick off at 4:30pm […]
Newcastle United cruised into the last 16 of the Champions League after edging a five-goal thriller with Qarabag, winning their play-off second-leg 3-2 at St. James’ Park. The damage had already been done in the first leg after Anthony Gordon’s four-goal display in a 6-1 Newcastle success, and despite a closer contest here, the Magpies […]
Chelsea have reportedly taken concrete steps in their pursuit of Ecuadorian midfielder Patrik Mercado, making an approach as part of their ongoing strategy to recruit emerging talent from South America.
The 22-year-old, currently with Independiente del Valle, has attracted growing attention following a series of impressive performances at club and international level, according to TEAMtalk.
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While Chelsea appear to be leading the race, they are not alone. Brighton, Bournemouth and Fulham are also said to be monitoring the midfielder’s situation as the summer transfer window approaches.
Mercado is a rising talent from Ecuador
Independiente del Valle have built a reputation for developing technically refined young players, and Mercado is the latest graduate to generate international interest.
Comfortable operating as a box-to-box midfielder, he combines ball progression with defensive awareness and has demonstrated composure beyond his years.
His performances have also earned recognition with the Ecuador national team, further elevating his profile.
Scouts across Europe have noted his work rate, positional intelligence and ability to carry the ball through central areas.
Chelsea plan to continue investing in young players
Patrik Mercado of Independiente del Valle (Photo by Rodrigo Valle/Getty Images)
Chelsea have adopted a recruitment model centered on identifying high-upside prospects and integrating them through a structured development pathway.
Under the BlueCo ownership model, a move for Mercado would likely include a loan spell at sister club RC Strasbourg.
Such an arrangement would allow Mercado to adapt to European football in Ligue 1 before making the transition to Stamford Bridge to play in the Premier League.
The pathway has been designed to balance competitive exposure with gradual integration into Chelsea’s first-team environment.
Prediction: Juventus to win 2-1 Best Odds: 13/2 Bookmaker: Zetbet Juventus and Galatasaray will lock horns with each other in the UEFA Champions League this week. The second leg of the Knockout Round Play-off tie between the Serie A club and the Turkish Super Lig outfit will be held at Juventus Stadium in Turin and […]
Bayer Leverkusen will face Bayern Munich or Arsenal in the last 16 of the Champions League after playing out a 0-0 draw with Olympiacos in their play-off second leg. Leverkusen already led the tie by two goals after their win in Greece, and despite creating a number of chances, they were unable to improve their […]
Bodo/Glimt completed a stunning 5-2 aggregate success over last season’s runners-up Inter in the Champions League play-offs, after a terrific 2-1 win at San Siro. Jens Petter Hauge, formerly of Inter’s rivals AC Milan, made it 1-0 after a Manuel Akanji error, with Hakon Evjen’s glorious strike then doubling Bodo’s lead on the night. Alessandro […]
Newcastle United cruised into the last 16 of the Champions League after edging a five-goal thriller with Qarabag, winning their play-off second-leg 3-2 at St. James’ Park. The damage had already been done in the first leg after Anthony Gordon’s four-goal display in a 6-1 Newcastle success, and despite a closer contest here, the Magpies […]
Alexander Sorloth scored a hat-trick as Atletico Madrid booked their place in the last 16 of the Champions League with a 4-1 win over Club Brugge in their play-off second-leg. Sorloth opened and concluded the scoring at the Estadio Metropolitano on Tuesday, with Diego Simeone’s side coming out on top to win the tie 7-4 […]
Marcus Rashford’s future appears increasingly tied to Barcelona, with reports indicating that the on-loan Manchester United forward has reached an agreement in principle over personal terms with the Spanish giants.
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The 28-year-old has reportedly agreed to a four-year contract running until 2030, signaling Barcelona’s intent to secure his services permanently rather than extend his temporary spell.
Barcelona are determined to sign Marcus Rashford
Barcelona view Rashford as a valuable addition to their attacking rebuild.
His ability to operate across the front line, whether cutting in from the left or playing centrally, fits the demands needed at the club.
Barcelona’s leadership are believed to see Rashford as an experienced yet still prime-age forward capable of adding pace, directness and goal threat.
Marcus Rashford warming up for Barcelona (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
Man United, however, are holding their ground. Sources suggest the club are unwilling to reduce the permanent option clause, reportedly valued between €30 million and €35 million.
From United’s perspective, accepting a lower fee would undermine their negotiating position and long-term financial strategy.
Rashford remains a significant asset, and any departure is expected to be on terms that reflect his market value.
Rashford’s agreement on personal terms suggests he is open to continuing his career in Spain.
After an inconsistent final period at Old Trafford, a fresh environment has reportedly reignited his motivation.
Tottenham centre-back Micky van de Ven is emerging as one of the most attrative defensive names ahead of the summer transfer window.
According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid are all closely monitoring the Dutch international’s situation, with uncertainty surrounding his long-term future in North London.
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Despite having several years remaining on his current contract, Van de Ven is reportedly reassessing his options, a development that has placed Spurs on alert during a crucial period for the club.
Micky van de Ven is attracting interest from top clubs
Tottenham secured Van de Ven as a long-term defensive solution, and the 24-year-old has justified that investment with commanding performances.
Known for his pace, aerial strength and composure in possession, he quickly established himself as a pillar of Tottenham’s backline.
His recovery speed in particular has drawn widespread praise, making him well-suited to modern high defensive lines.
Bernardo Silva’s decade-long chapter at Manchester City could be drawing to a close, with multiple clubs across Europe and the United States monitoring his situation ahead of the summer transfer window, according to Daily Mail.
The Portuguese playmaker, now 31, is approaching the end of his contract and is believed to be open to a fresh challenge after years of sustained success in England.
Interest has reportedly emerged from Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire, Portuguese giants Benfica and Serie A contenders Juventus, while clubs in the Saudi Pro League are also keeping tabs on developments.
Bernardo Silva has had a strong influence at Man City
Man City signed Silva from AS Monaco in 2017, and he has since become one of the most tactically intelligent and versatile players in Pep Guardiola’s system.
Comfortable operating in central midfield, wide areas or even deeper creative roles, Silva’s adaptability has made him indispensable during City’s domestic and European triumphs.
His relentless work rate, technical quality and composure under pressure have defined his time at the Etihad Stadium.
Whether he chooses a sentimental return, a European challenge, or a new adventure abroad, his departure would mark the end of a significant era at Man City.
Jack Hinshelwood’s rise at Brighton & Hove Albion has been one of the best developments of the 2025/26 Premier League season.
Still only in his early twenties, the academy graduate has evolved into a sophisticated, multi-role performer who embodies the modern game’s demand.
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His performances have not only strengthened Brighton’s midfield and defensive structure but have also drawn serious attention from England’s elite clubs, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.
As the summer of 2026 approaches, top English clubs, particularly Manchester City and Arsenal, are closely monitoring the youngster.
Brighton youngter is an ideal modern day player
Brighton have built a reputation for nurturing intelligent, technically secure players, and Hinshelwood fits that model perfectly.
Jack Hinshelwood of Brighton (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)
Interest from the so-called “Big Six” has intensified. Man City and Arsenal are understood to be leading admirers, particularly given Pep Guardiola’s and Mikel Arteta’s preference for young, homegrown players.
Liverpool and Chelsea also view him as a long-term investment, valuing both his technical reliability and homegrown status.
With a contract running until June 2028, Brighton are negotiating from strength.
Brighton would demand between €45-55 million, a figure above his current market valuation but justified by his age, adaptability.
Arsenal’s emphatic 4-1 victory over Tottenham has not only reignited their title charge but also sparked a major tactical debate regarding the future of club captain Martin Odegaard.
Following a five-star performance from Eberechi Eze, who netted twice in the North London Derby, experts are warning that Odegaard’s once-guaranteed spot in the starting XI is now under serious threat.
Martin Odegaard starting XI spot no longer guaranteed after Eze masterclass
(Photo by Vince Mignott/MB Media/Getty Images)
Eze, a £60 million summer signing from Crystal Palace, looked “absolute class” in an orthodox number 10 role, thriving in a central position supported by the double pivot of Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi.
Ex-Arsenal defender Adrian Clarke was among those to heap praise on Eze, noting that the midfielder “grew three inches taller” after opening the scoring.
Clarke argued that the swagger and drive shown by Eze has now “set the bar” for Arsenal’s creative hub.
When asked about his performance against Spurs, ex-Arsenal defender Adrian Clarke said on talkSPORT: “He was outstanding, wasn’t he?
“This was a really orthodox 10 role, because we had Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi that were flat too.
“He was the guy, central. And I think you’ve got to play quite high to affect the game.
“Make sure you get into the box. He obviously got into the box for both the goals. He wins the ball. He started to win the ball better than he did earlier on in the season.
“We saw that in the build-up to his second. I just thought once he scored the first, Eze grew three inches taller. He started to have a little bit of swagger about him. It was like his stage.
“Some of the little touches and flicks and passes around the corner were a joy to watch. He was absolute class. But he’s set the bar now.
“That has to be the level. You can’t just do it twice a season against Spurs. He has to play with that drive, that purpose, that swagger against everyone. And if he does, Odegaard won’t get back in the team.”
Eze vs. Martin Odegaard
While Odegaard has long been the creative heartbeat of Mikel Arteta’s side, this season’s statistics highlight a shifting of the guard.
Derailed by an ankle injury earlier in the campaign and a more recent knee issue, the Norwegian’s production has dipped compared to Eze’s explosive impact.
Eze’s ability to affect the game high up the pitch and his superior goal-scoring return, including five goals against Spurs alone this season, provide a directness that Odegaard has occasionally lacked in 2026.
Odegaard’s future at Arsenal uncertain
Odegaard has been linked with a move away this summer, with reports suggesting that Arsenal are ready to part ways with their captain.
Lionel Messi's Inter Miami learns their rivals for the debut round in the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Lionel Messi will be targeting the CONCACAF Champions Cup as one of his primary objectives for 2026 after capturing the MLS Cup last season. With the tournament already underway, Inter Miami have now learned their opponent for their debut in this year’s continental competition.
Inter Miami will face Nashville SC in the Champions Cup Round of 16, with the first leg set for March 11 at GEODIS Park and the return leg scheduled for March 18 at Chase Stadium. Because the Herons won the MLS Cup in 2025, they earned direct passage into this stage rather than starting in the opening round like most clubs.
For the first round of the competition, Inter Miami’s opponent was determined by the winner of the tie between Nashville and Atlético Ottawa. The MLS side seized control of the matchup with a comfortable 2-0 road victory in the first leg, putting them in firm position to close out the series at home.
Nashville and Atlético Ottawa met again Tuesday at GEODIS Park. Despite rotating the squad and resting several stars like Hany Mukhtar and Sam Surridge following their league opener, the hosts still rolled to a dominant 5-0 victory, with Alex Muyl, Jordan Knight, Woobens Pacius, Jack Maher and Ahmed Qasem as the goalscorers of a one-sided performance.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF celebrates after scoring against Nashville SC.
Interestingly, the Round of 16 showdown between Inter Miami and Nashville marks a rematch from two years ago. In 2024, the clubs played to a 2-2 draw in the first leg in Nashville (with Messi scoring once) before Miami secured a 3-1 win in the return leg to advance, fueled by a goal and an assist from the Argentine star.
Lionel Messi’s strong track record vs. Nashville
Since arriving at Inter Miami, Lionel Messi has faced Nashville SC more often than any other U.S.-based opponent across multiple competitions. Four of those meetings have come in Major League Soccer play, three in last season’s playoffs, two in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, and one in the Leagues Cup.
Across those 10 matchups against the Boys in Gold, Messi has seven wins, two draws, and just one loss. They’ve also become one of his favorite opponents statistically, with the Miami star recording 15 goals (an average of 1.5 per game) along with four assists, underscoring his consistent dominance in this matchup.
Inter Miami set for farewell at Chase Stadium
The Champions Cup series will also carry added significance for Inter Miami beyond the international stakes, as it is set to be the club’s final match at Chase Stadium before relocating to its new home.
With the 2026 MLS season already underway, questions are being raised about when Argentina and Inter Miami star Lionel Messi will play his next game.
Lionel Messi is still making history at 38 years old, remaining a cornerstone and captain for both Inter Miami and the Argentina national team. With the 2026 Major League Soccer season now underway, fans are wondering when they’ll see the forward back in action.
Lionel Messi’s next match is scheduled for Thursday, February 26, when Inter Miami face Independiente del Valle in a friendly in Puerto Rico. The game, originally set to be played before the season began, was rescheduled after the Argentine star dealt with an injury.
As for international duty with Argentina national team, Lionel Messi is set to return to action during the March international window. La Albiceleste will face Spain national team in the Finalissima on Friday the 27th, followed by a friendly against Qatar national team on Tuesday the 31st.
The 2026 MLS campaign has only just begun for Messi, who has featured in one official match so far without recording a goal or assist. The opener came against LAFC, who handed Inter Miami a 3-0 defeat in front of a packed crowd at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF during the MLS match against LAFC.
Lionel Messi and the task of defending the World Cup title
The year 2026 will be especially significant for Messi, not only because of Inter Miami’s ambitions but also because he’ll head into the 2026 World Cup aiming to defend the title. The triumph in Qatar in 2022 marked one of the defining peaks of his career, and now in North America he’ll enter another tournament wearing the champions’ badge for the first time.
Drawn into Group J, Argentina will open its campaign against Algeria on Tuesday, June 16, in Kansas City at Arrowhead Stadium. The second match will be against Austria on Monday the 22nd in Arlington at AT&T Stadium, before closing the group stage against Jordan on Saturday the 27th, also in Texas.
Neymar is reportedly facing a major setback in his bid to return to Brazil’s national team, as head coach Carlo Ancelotti shapes his plans for the 2026 World Cup.
Neymar’s potential role in the 2026 World Cup has become a major talking point not only within the Brazil national team setup but across the country, with fans openly calling for his inclusion. However, with less than four months until the tournament begins, the Brazilian star is reportedly facing a setback as head coach Carlo Ancelotti shapes his plans for the competition.
One of the recent headlines in Brazil came after Neymar suggested he could retire when his contract with Santos FC expires in December 2026. With that timeline in mind, his focus has shifted to the short term, prioritizing a return to the national team, especially with the March international window approaching, but those ambitions may not align with the coaching staff’s current strategy.
According to ESPN Brasil, Ancelotti’s plan is not to include Neymar on the squad list for the March fixtures. That would rule him out of friendlies against France and Croatia, leaving his next opportunity to return dependent on the final roster announcement in May, when Brazil is scheduled to play two additional warm-up matches ahead of the World Cup in June.
Santos were recently eliminated by Novorizontino in the Campeonato Paulista, but that result, win or lose, was not expected to influence Ancelotti’s decision. In fact, despite being monitored by the CBF, the plan was never for Neymar to feature in the final matches before the definitive squad announcement.
Neymar of Santos warming up prior to the game.
Ancelotti to wait for Neymar to recover fitness
Neymar’s form late last season, combined with his return from knee surgery in mid-February, raised hopes of a comeback to peak condition, but the tight timeline has complicated matters. As ESPN reported, the idea was always for him to return gradually, regain match rhythm after injury, and continue building sharpness with Santos before being reconsidered for the Brazil national team.
After helping rescue the club from relegation last season, Santos’ 2026 campaign has started poorly. With only three wins in 12 matches across all competitions (and still none in Brazil’s top flight) the team suffered another blow with the loss to Novorizontino, which was just Neymar’s second appearance of the year and saw him complete the full 90 minutes.
“Sadness. Simply sadness. We have to improve,” Neymar said briefly after the match. Now focused on turning their form around, Santos will face Vasco da Gama next Thursday at Vila Belmiro, aiming for their first win of the new league season.
Neymar (L) and Carlo Ancelotti (R), head coach of Brazil.
Keylor Navas has shared a dressing room with some of the greatest players in soccer history, yet he has made a surprising choice when asked to name the most talented teammate of his career. Despite playing alongside both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, the Costa Rican goalkeeper stunned many by snubbing the two icons and […]
Keylor Navas has shared a dressing room with some of the greatest players in soccer history, yet he has made a surprising choice when asked to name the most talented teammate of his career. Despite playing alongside both Lionel Messiand Cristiano Ronaldo, the Costa Rican goalkeeper stunned many by snubbing the two icons and instead pointing to Neymar as the player who left the deepest impression on him.
The revelation has sparked debate among fans, reigniting the age-old discussion about raw talent versus legacy, numbers, and trophies. Coming from a three-time Champions League winner who has seen greatness up close, Navas’ words carry significant weight in soccer circles.
After years guarding the net behind Ronaldo at Real Madrid and later sharing the pitch with Messi at Paris Saint-Germain, Navas was uniquely positioned to judge the very best. Yet when asked about the most gifted player he ever played with, he looked past the Ballon d’Or legends and highlighted the Brazilian magician.
“We are talking about great stars and the best of the last decades, but due to talent on the field, Neymar impacted me a lot,” the 39-year-old goalkeeper told Diairo AS. “He did what he wanted with the ball, it didn’t matter if it was with the left or with the right. When I saw him in the games, I felt that it was like when I played with my children. Ney is an incredible player.”
This was the key reason behind Navas’ choice: Neymar’s unpredictable, two-footed mastery and ability to make soccer look effortless, something that even the most decorated players in history do not always possess.
Raw talent over trophies and statistics
Navas’ assessment highlights an important distinction in soccer debates. While Messi and Ronaldo are widely regarded as the greatest players of all time based on records, trophies, and longevity, Navas judged talent on pure technical ability and creativity rather than achievements.
For the veteran goalkeeper, Neymar embodied a rare kind of spontaneity, an instinctive genius that bends the game to his will. He described Neymar’s style as playful yet devastating, capable of humiliating defenders with improvisation and flair.
Neymar Jr of Santos smiles prior a game.
Neymar’s place in soccer history
The former Costa Rica international’s endorsement of Neymar as the most talented player he ever played with adds another chapter to the Brazilian’s complex legacy. While injuries and inconsistencies have limited Neymar’s achievements compared to Messi and Ronaldo, his technical brilliance continues to mesmerize teammates, opponents, and experts alike.
For the experienced shot-stopper, talent is not defined by goals, trophies, or Ballon d’Or awards, but by the ability to make the impossible look natural. In that sense, Neymar represents soccer in its purest artistic form, a player capable of redefining what is technically possible on the pitch.
Neymar remains one of the most iconic figures in modern soccer, and Carlo Ancelotti is tasked with managing expectations around the Brazil squad as the 2026 World Cup approaches. Yet, with the tournament edging closer, concerns are mounting that one of the nation’s most celebrated talents may not be in the condition required to make […]
Neymarremains one of the most iconic figures in modern soccer, and Carlo Ancelotti is tasked with managing expectations around the Brazil squad as the 2026 World Cup approaches. Yet, with the tournament edging closer, concerns are mounting that one of the nation’s most celebrated talents may not be in the condition required to make the biggest stage.
Brazil has long relied on Neymar’s brilliance to unlock defences and ignite crowds, but the conversation around his future has shifted dramatically. What was once unquestioned superstardom is now clouded by uncertainty, doubts over fitness, and growing scrutiny from fans and pundits alike.
The turning point came during a recent match involving Santos, where a viral clip circulated across social media and reignited debate about Neymar’s physical condition. In the footage, the Brazilian struggled to chase a loose ball, failing to keep it in play as it rolled out for a throw-in. The moment quickly became symbolic of a wider narrative: that injuries and age may finally be catching up with him.
The reaction from fans was brutal and immediate. Some online users labelled the 34-year-old forward “done,” while others suggested he should retire rather than pursue another World Cup campaign. “Neymar is done. I know it’s hard for him to accept it but the injuries have taken their toll on his mobility.”
Another added, “He’s finished. Bro should retire, he can’t make the World Cup in this state.” Meanwhile, others raised concerns about the long-term toll of playing on artificial turf and the impact of repeated surgeries on his joints and explosiveness.
Injuries and long road back
Injuries have become the defining theme of Neymar’s later career. A devastating knee ligament injury suffered while playing for the national team in 2023 kept him sidelined for a full year. Another operation followed in December 2025, forcing him into further rehabilitation and limiting his rhythm.
Despite flashes of brilliance during his return to Santos, Neymar is widely viewed as a shadow of the player who once commanded a record $260 million transfer to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017. His technical quality remains undeniable, but his physical condition has been questioned more than ever.
The match against Novorizontino, which ended in elimination from a key competition, further highlighted those struggles. Neymar completed the full 90 minutes but failed to influence the game decisively and made a defensive mistake that led to the opening goal.
Neymar (L) and Carlo Ancelotti (R), head coach of Brazil.
Carlo Ancelotti’s warning: No free pass
Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear that reputation alone will not secure Neymar a place in the World Cup squad. Despite being Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, he must prove his fitness and form to earn selection.
With the World Cup approaching, Ancelotti’s stance represents a major shift in Brazil’s approach. Past tournaments often revolved around Neymar as the focal point, but the current generation offers alternatives that could reduce reliance on the veteran forward.
Neymar of Santos reacts during the Brasileirao 2025.
LAFC receive Real España in the second leg of the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup first round. Below is all the key information you need, including the date, venue, kickoff time, and options to watch or live stream the match in the USA.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch LAFC vs Real España on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
LAFC vs Real España
WHAT
CONCACAF Champions Cup
WHEN
9:00 PM ET / 6:00 PM PT • Tuesday, February 24, 2026
After delivering a ruthless 6-1 road victory in the opening leg, Los Angeles FC return to Southern California with one foot firmly in the next round and all the momentum on their side. The MLScontender flexed its attacking depth early and often against Real España, turning what many projected as a lopsided matchup into a full-blown showcase of firepower.
Now back on home soil, LAFC are in prime position to close out the series in front of their supporters, while Real España head north simply hoping to salvage pride and produce a far more competitive performance despite facing overwhelming odds. With a spot in the next stage within reach and plenty of goals expected, this is one matchup fans won’t want to miss.
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Morocco could get a World Cup winner and Barcelona legend to replace Regragui.
The national team circle should be ready for the 2026 World Cup with most staff set. However, there was surprising news on Tuesday as Morocco looks ready to part ways with Walid Regragui. Reportedly, the target is a Barcelona legend as a coach.
With the defeat in the controversial AFCON final against Senegal that included a Brahim Diaz penalty miss in the final minute, the federation was reportedly not pleased with the idea of keeping Regragui as manager.
There is one name that apparently interests the executives. Xavi Hernández has begun to be mentioned in recent hours as a potential replacement, according to Marca. Getting someone who won the competition could be a major boost for the recent semifinalists.
Xavi’s career as manager
Xavi has benefited from his extraordinary playing career to quickly reach top jobs. His first coaching experience was with Al Sadd. The Qatari club where he finished his playing days gave him the chance to coach for 102 matches, resulting in 67 victories, 17 draws and 18 losses.
Xavi won one La Liga with Barcelona (Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
His next step was the club he knows best, where he replaced Ronald Koeman during a rebuilding phase at Barcelona. After a strong start that included a La Liga title and a Supercopa de España, the final stretch was less favorable.
The Spaniard left the club after 142 matches from 2021 to 2024. His record shows 89 victories, 24 draws and 29 losses before he departed. He has not coached anywhere since then.
What could stop Xavi from accepting the job?
Despite not being among the main favorites to win the World Cup, Morocco looks like a tough assignment for many coaches. Reaching the semifinals in the recent edition means the job is no longer a surprise step.
What could prevent Xavi from taking the job is the limited time he would have to prepare for the tournament. Spanish outlets say he is unlikely to take on a mid-project assignment. That could be the reason he says no, with only a few months to the most important event.
A Real Madrid player would be a great signing for Barcelona, according to Pedri and Ferran Torres.
The rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid is one of the most significant in world soccer. Year after year, they compete for titles in Spain, have faced each other in European competitions, and routinely battle for top players in every transfer window. Now, Pedriand Ferran Torres have openly admitted there is a rival star they would like to have as a teammate.
The two players gave an extensive interview this week on the popular Spanish TV show El Larguero, where they discussed their team’s current situation and shared some behind-the-scenes details. For example, they were asked whether they have friends atReal Madrid despite the intense rivalry on the field.
Pedri answered honestly. “Yes, some. We get along well,” the young Barcelona midfielder began, before adding an important clarification: “We’re not calling each other every day, but we get along.”
The interviewer then asked if there was any Real Madrid player they would like Barcelona to sign, if it were possible. After thinking for a few seconds, Pedri responded: “Mbappe, right?” he said, looking toward Torres, who agreed: “Yes, Mbappe.”
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid CF.
The French forward would be an ideal addition for Barcelona, who have been surrounded for months by speculation regarding the futures of two of their most important forwards: Robert Lewandowski and Marcus Rashford. Ironically, if such a deal were to happen, one of the main players affected would be Ferran Torres himself, who would likely move into a secondary role behind Mbappe.
How has Mbappe performed against Barcelona?
Since bursting onto the scene as a teenager with AS Monaco, Kylian Mbappe has been the subject of transfer rumors linking him to nearly every major club in the world. In Spain, however, Real Madrid always appeared to be his most likely destination rather than Barcelona — something that became reality in the summer of 2024.
Over the course of his career, Mbappe has faced Barcelona several times, initially in European competition and, over the past two seasons, also in Spanish domestic tournaments. So far, the overall record has been unfavorable for the French forward.
During his years at Paris Saint-Germain, Mbappe enjoyed his best results against Barcelona. The French side eliminated Barcelona twice in the UEFA Champions League, in 2021 and 2024, and on both occasions Mbappe stood out, scoring a combined six goals.
However, since joining Real Madrid, the results have not been as positive. Mbappe has won El Clasico only once — a 2-1 La Liga victory in October of last year. The other five matches have ended in defeats, including the 2025 Copa del Rey final and the 2025 and 2026 Spanish Super Cup finals.
While Tottenham find themselves right in the middle of a desperate fight for Premier League survival, a ghost from the January transfer window has returned to haunt them.
Ademola Lookman, the Nigerian international who has become an overnight sensation at Atletico Madrid, was reportedly offered to Spurs multiple times last month, only for the North London club to reject the chance to sign him.
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Tottenham turned down the chance to sign Ademola Lookman
(Photo by Manu Reino/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images)
Spurs were strongly linked with a move for the former Atalanta star, holding a long interest in the attacker.
And they had a chance to sign him, not once but twice, with latest being in January when they were offered the opportunity to secure his signature.
But according to The Sun, Tottenham’s hierarchy turned down the 28-year-old winger despite a “crippling” injury crisis that decimated Thomas Frank’s squad throughout January.
Lookman eventually completed a £30 million deadline-day move from Atalanta to the Spanish capital, and his impact has been nothing short of explosive.
Lookman’s immediate impact at Atletico Madrid
The Super Eagles star has already netted four goals in his first six appearances for Diego Simeone’s side.
His standout moment came just a fortnight ago, when he terrorised the Barcelona defense in a 4-0 Copa del Rey demolition.
Lookman opened his account for the club with a clinical strike and turned provider for Julián Álvarez, leaving many at the Metropolitano wondering how a player of his caliber remained available until the final hours of the window.
Club
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Atalanta BC
137
55
27
Charlton Athletic
49
12
3
Everton FC
48
4
2
Leicester City
42
8
5
Fulham FC
35
4
4
RB Leipzig
24
5
4
Atlético de Madrid
7
4
2
Everton FC U21
2
2
–
Ademola Lookman stats across various clubs via Transfermarkt
Spurs decision to snub Lookman questioned
The decision to snub Lookman appears even more baffling given that Spurs lost nine first-team players to injury in January alone.
Director of Football Johan Lange recently defended the club’s quiet window, claiming they had to remain “disciplined” to avoid signing “quick fixes.”
Lange argued that with a bloated squad set to return from injury, any new arrival had to be a “premium player for now and the future.”
Ironically, Lookman, who turned 28 in October, seemingly didn’t fit that long-term profile, yet he has outperformed almost every fit attacker currently in the Spurs squad.
Instead of the Nigerian, Spurs opted for Conor Gallagher and teenage full-back Souza, leaving many fans questioning why a proven goalscorer wasn’t prioritised during a relegation battle.
While Tottenham’s forwards have struggled for consistency, Lookman’s instant hit status in Spain suggests he was exactly the type of spark Spurs needed.
For a club currently sitting 16th in the table, the decision to ignore a player who has already humbled Barcelona may well go down as the most expensive mistake of their season.
While the 4-1 scoreline in the North London Derby left Tottenham fans with little to cheer about, a new piece of fan-captured footage has provided a rare moment of consolation.
Despite the heavy defeat at the hands of Arsenal, 19-year-old Archie Gray has endeared himself to the Spurs faithful with a display of raw passion and defiance following a crucial first-half equaliser.
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Archie Gray launched the ball at Arsenal supporters
The youngster was seen booting the ball with immense force directly toward the section of Arsenal supporters celebrating in the away end.
The video shows Gray launching the ball hard toward the Arsenal fans.
Arsenal fans in the footage could be seen fuming and having a go at the teenage. And on social media, the supporters are calling on for the player to be banned for his actions.
I don’t want to hear any more noise about Gabriel/Kolo Muani.
Archie Gray should have been sent off for booting the ball into the Arsenal fans. Referee bottled it.
Red every day of the week for something like that with supporters. Every time.
However, for the Tottenham supporters, the action has been hailed as a sign of a player who truly understands the weight of the rivalry.
Gray struggled against Viktor Gyokeres
Despite the viral moment, it was a difficult afternoon for Gray on the pitch. Deployed in a hybrid role, the teenager struggled to contain the physicality and movement of Arsenal attackers, in particular, Viktor Gyokeres.
For Gyokeres’ second goal, he easily outmuscled the youngster before putting the ball past the goalkeeper.
However, if the fan reaction is anything to go by, Gray’s “derby fire” has bought him plenty of applause with a fanbase desperate for players who wear their hearts on their sleeves.
It has been a disappointing season for Tottenham so far, and they are very close to the relegation zone.
They will look to bounce back strongly and finish the season on a high. According to a report from The Guardian, the owners are now looking to invest heavily in the summer window and are prepared to shatter the club’s rigid wage structure to bring in top-quality players.
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Tottenham ready to spend big
The Guardian report claims that Tottenham’s wage bill is the lowest among the big six clubs, and that the owners are prepared to change that to attract top-quality players.
However, they will need to secure safety in the Premier League first. If they are relegated at the end of the season, it would be catastrophic for them, financially.
Tottenham Hotspur fans protest against the ENIC group outside the stadium. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
They have brought in Igor Tudor to steady the ship and help the team bounce back strongly. It remains to be seen whether the former Juventus manager can make his mark. He has had a baptism of fire in the Premier League, so far. Tottenham were humiliated by Arsenal in his first game in charge of the north London club.
He has now demanded a strong reaction from his players for the upcoming matches, and it remains to be seen whether they can step up and deliver. There is no doubt that they have a quality team, and they should be doing a lot better.
There is likely to be a major overhaul of the team in the summer, but everything now depends on their ability to secure safety first.
Lens striker Rayan Fofana has been linked with a move away from the French outfit and Premier League clubs.
Arsenal and Chelsea are interested in him. According to a report from SportsBoom, Arsenal and Chelsea are leading the race to sign the talented young attacker, and it will be interesting to see if they can get the deal done. The centre forward has impressed with his “poacher” instincts, and he could be a useful acquisition for both London clubs.
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Chelsea need to find an alternative to Liam Delap, who has not been able to find the back of the net regularly. It will be interesting to see if they can sign Fofana in the summer.
Meanwhile, Arsenal need more depth in the attacking unit. Viktor Gyokeres has been inconsistent, and they need more quality in that area of the pitch.
Rayan Fofana of Lens celebrates scoring. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images) BOREHAMWOOD, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 29: Rayan Fofana of Lens celebrates scoring the first goal during the UEFA Youth League match between Arsenal and RC Lens at Meadow Park on November 29, 2023 in Borehamwood, England. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
The player is likely to cost around €35-€45 million. It will be interesting to see if Arsenal or Chelsea is willing to pay that kind of money for him. The young attacker has a contract with the French outfit until 2029, and they are under no pressure to sell him. It is no surprise that Lens are demanding a premium for his signature.
Arsenal and Chelsea certainly have the financial muscle to pay the asking price, but they might prefer to sign the player for a more reasonable fee. It will be interesting to see how the situation unfolds.
The opportunity to join a Premier League club will be exciting for Fofana, and he will certainly hope to secure a move to a big club.
Despite being considered one of the national teams favored for the 2026 World Cup, Morocco could suffer a major setback. With only a few months remaining before the anticipated tournament, coach Walid Regragui has reportedly made a surprising decision on his future.
After surprising everyone by reaching the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup, Morocco have established as one of the best national teams in the world. In addition, they have world-class players such as Abde Ezzalzouli, Noussair Mazraoui, Achraf Hakimi, and Brahim Diaz, making them one of the favorites to win the 2026 World Cup. However, they may face a major setback, as head coach Walid Regragui has reportedly made a tough decision about his future.
According to Lassana Camara, via X (formerly Twitter), Walid Regragui has decided to step down as Morocco‘s head coach his position just months before the 2026 World Cup. Despite being the architect of a solid sporting project, the defeat in the Africa Cup of Nations significantly weakened his standing, as he had been facing heavy pressure and criticism. As a result, the coach chose to step aside, leaving the national team without clear direction.
Even though Regragui’s resignation had reportedly been rejected a few weeks ago, he ultimately remained firm in his decision. In addition, Morocco’s roster is not going through its best moment, as the AFCON defeat left the squad deeply shaken, with Brahim Díaz and Achraf Hakimi among the most affected stars. Consequently, the Atlas Lions are in a vulnerable position; they had seemed to be one of the favorites for the 2026 World Cup and now face a major setback.
Walid Regragui managed to consolidate one of the greatest projects in Morocco’s history, cementing his name in the legacy of the national team. Despite arriving at the 2022 World Cup as one of the outsiders, he led the side all the way to the semifinals. In addition, he elevated the performances of several players like Abde Ezzalzouli, Brahim Díaz, Achraf Hakimi, and Ismael Saibari, among others. For that reason, they will have a hard task replacing him.
Head Coach Walid Regragui and players of Morocco waves to the fans.
Morocco reportedly targets ex-Barcelona coach to replace Regragui
Walid Regragui’s departure is undeniably a major blow for Morocco — not only because of his impact on the national team, but also because there are just four months left until the 2026 World Cup. For that reason, they have very little time to appoint a new head coach capable of implementing his ideas within the squad. In this context, a former Barcelona coach has emerged as a leading candidate.
According to MARCA, Xavi Hernández is the favorite to become Morocco’s new manager ahead of the World Cup. Having been without a club since leaving Barcelona, he would be an ideal fit for the national team, as his philosophy would represent continuity from Regragui’s approach, with both built around possession-based soccer. However, he may have doubts as that it would mean taking over a project midway through the cycle and with limited time to build.
Achraf Hakimi and Morocco's head coach Walid Regragui.
Arsenal legend Alan Smith named the favorites to compete for the 2026 FIFA World Cup title. Lionel Messi’s Argentina made the list — but Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal did not.
With less than four months until the 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicks off, the soccer world is closely watching what will unfold. Former players and legends are no exception, and among them is Alan Smith. The former Arsenal striker included Lionel Messi’s Argentina among his favorites to win the title, but left out Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal.
“Argentina will be very keen to retain the trophy,” Smith said during an exclusive interview with Bolavip. He then mentioned other national teams he believes can also contend for the title: “Obviously, Brazil, Spain, Germany, England. We’ll see. I mean, there’s a lot of hope in England that we can lift it. But we’ll have to see.”
The former Arsenal player, who retired in 1995 and now works as a media commentator, elaborated on how Messi’s influence has been central to Argentina’s success. “I’ve covered a lot of Argentina games at the World Cup and you know, there were some where Argentina were a little flat, nothing was happening and then Messi just changed it entirely, it just looked like he was made to end up a winner and be the star,” Alan recalled.
Smith then drew a comparison with Portugal: “Can Ronaldo still do it? I mean, Ronaldo has been scoring fun in Saudi Arabia, obviously the standards are much different, but I think they’ll both see this as their last tournament, so they’ll be very keen to go out with a bang.”
Former player and media pundit Alan Smith.
Smith points to a key factor for the 2026 World Cup
Alan Smith’s selection of the teams he considers favorites to win the title this summer in North America is based on the qualities they have shown on the field in recent years, as well as the talent and experience within their squads. However, he acknowledged that other factors will also play a role.
“I think the weather will play a part and maybe not to England’s advantage. In New York, in the Club World Cup last year, I think it was 95 degrees or something,” Smith recalled. “So it might be the team like Spain or Argentina would be better suited to it. Spain are looking good. France still look strong. But yeah, yeah, a lot of factors can get in the way. But I think it’s the normal ones that you think of will be there again.”
Messi or Ronaldo? Alan Smith gives his verdict
In the same interview with Bolavip, Alan Smith was asked about the inevitable comparisons between Messi and Ronaldo. “I think they will be rated as the best two players of all time,” the former English player said. “Partly because of how long they’ve lasted, quite amazing. You can look at a lot of players like (Diego) Maradona, I mean Pele lasted a long time obviously, but a lot of top players haven’t gone for as long as Messi and Ronaldo and for that reason, you know, I think they are the top two.”
Finally, Smith was bold and chose his favorite between the two. “I’d probably just go for Messi,” the Arsenal legend said. “Well, he’s a world champion obviously, but maybe he thinks about the team a little more than Ronaldo does at times. Hasn’t quite got that ego, obviously has got an ego, but yeah, he’s just such an amazing player to watch. But they are both fantastic.”
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal and Lionel Messi of Argentina.
Barcelona presidential candidate Joan Laporta blamed the people around Lionel Messi for his departure from Barcelona.
Lionel Messi continues to be a main focus for Barcelona presidential candidates while they make their public speeches. Joan Laporta was the latest to give his thoughts on the player’s exit to PSG.
In 2021 everybody was shocked when Messi announced he was no longer going to play for Barcelona after more than two decades at the club that welcomed him when he was younger. Laporta has been blamed for the move by many, but he explained what happened in an interview on the TV show Cafè d’idees.
Laporta said: “Messi’s entourage didn’t dislike going to PSG. It was a very generous offer, but I’m convinced he wanted to stay. We tried. Barcelona’s economy couldn’t afford it. You can always do more in life. Everything can improve. However, the situation was constrained.”
Laporta on Messi’s return
It now seems impossible for Messi to come back as a player for Barcelona. He’s nearing the end of his career while the club seems to have regained its spirit with a young team for many years.
Laporta remains the favorite in Barcelona’s presidential election (David Ramos/Getty Images)
The main idea centers on an honorary match so the fans can properly thank him for all he has done for the club, and Laporta added that the club has also honored the Argentine throughout its history.
Laporta remembered when a return was possible: “We tried to bring him back in 2023, but he preferred to join Inter Miami for various reasons. He made that decision, which is very respectable. That’s not criticism.”
Barcelona election race heats up
Joan Laporta resigned from the presidency to run as a candidate in the upcoming elections. The club’s board announced a series of measures in January, with the key decision being the scheduling of the presidential vote for March 15.
Laporta is considered the leading candidate after the club’s financial stabilization. His main challenger appears to be Víctor Font, who received nearly 30 percent of the vote in the previous election. Marc Ciria, Xavier Vilajoana, and Joan Comprubí are also running.
Messi announced his departure from Barcelona five years ago
Juventus are reportedly preparing a sensational move to sign Liverpool’s Alisson Becker this summer as part of a massive squad overhaul under Luciano Spalletti.
According to The Standard, Juventus have identified the Brazilian international as the “dream” solution to their current goalkeeping crisis.
Spalletti has reportedly earmarked the goalkeeper position as a primary area of concern. Current number one Michele Di Gregorio has faced heavy scrutiny following a string of high-profile errors in 2026, while aging understudies Mattia Perin and Carlo Pinsoglio are not viewed as long-term solutions.
Juventus eyeing Liverpool star Alisson Becker
(Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
The move would see Alisson reunite with Spalletti, the man who oversaw his rise at AS Roma before his record-breaking move to Merseyside in 2018.
Juventus executives are reportedly optimistic that they can secure the 33-year-old in a “cut-rate” deal, leveraging the fact that his contract is set to enter its final year in 2027.
This succession plan could tempt the Reds to cash in on Alisson now rather than risk losing him for a reduced fee next year.
Selling Alisson will be a mistake
Despite the logic of cashing in, selling Alisson could be a catastrophic error for Liverpool.
While the Brazilian is 33-year-old, the typical aging curve doesn’t apply to elite goalkeepers; legends like Gianluigi Buffon and Manuel Neuer have proven that world-class shot-stoppers can perform at the highest level well into their late 30s.
Alisson remains statistically one of the top three goalkeepers in the world, and his presence is vital to Arne Slot’s defensive structure.
Losing his leadership and shot-stopping ability, especially with Manchester City and Arsenal still dominating the domestic scene, could be a loss that even a talent like Mamardashvili cannot immediately replace.
Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the Lens keeper Robin Risser at the end of the season.
According to TEAMtalk, the 21-year-old’s performances for the French outfit have impressed the north London club, and they are looking to sign him as a replacement for Guglielmo Vicario. Vicario is keen on a return to Italy as well.
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Guglielmo Vicario to be replaced by Risser?
The Italian has been inconsistent since joining Tottenham, and the club hierarchy has decided to move on from him. They are looking to replace him, and the young French goalkeeper would be ideal for them.
Risser has done quite well this season, and there are rumours that he could be a part of the French World Cup as well. Tottenham have been monitoring him closely and are impressed by his displays. It will be interesting to see if they can get the deal done. Other clubs are monitoring his situation as well, and they should move quickly to complete the deal.
Having a reliable goalkeeper could make a huge difference for Tottenham, and it remains to be seen how the situation unfolds. The 21-year-old will certainly be attracted to the idea of joining Tottenham. It would be a step up in his career, and he would get to play for a big club. Regular football in the Premier League could accelerate his development and help him fulfil his potential.
Tottenham have the financial muscle to convince the French outfit to sell the player. It will be interesting to see if they come forward with a lucrative offer in the summer.
Meanwhile, they will look to get rid of the Italian goalkeeper, and it will be interesting to see where he ends up. Vicario has been linked with Juventus.
Meanwhile, Tottenham are close to the relegation zone, and they must finish the season strongly to attract elite talent.
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Liam Delap to stay on?
Even though Delap has not lived up to expectations, Chelsea is prepared to hold onto him. He is a talented player with a bright future. Chelsea paid £30 million for him, and there is no doubt that he could justify the investment in future.
He has not been a regular starter for Chelsea this season, and he will look to regain his form and confidence. It will be interesting to see if he can establish himself as an important player for the London club.
Delap was highly rated during his time at Ipswich Town. There is no doubt that he has the quality to play for the biggest clubs in the country. He was linked with several teams before he joined Chelsea.
It seems that Chelsea values his potential, and it will be interesting to see if they can bring out the best in the player.
Liam Delap in action for Chelsea (Photo by Aziz Karimov/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Everton need more quality in the final third, and they could use the 22-year-old. He could prove to be an excellent long-term acquisition for them. Regular football at Everton might also bring out the best in the player. It remains to be seen whether they will come forward with their official proposal in the summer.
Chelsea do not need to sell players for money, and it will be difficult to convince them if they are uninterested in letting Delap leave. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
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Micky van de Ven to leave?
However, the Netherlands International is not convinced that signing a new contract with Tottenham is the right decision. Tottenham are struggling right now, and they are not in a position to challenge for major trophies. The 24-year-old is an ambitious player who wants to compete at the highest level. Joining Real Madrid will allow him to push for major trophies. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
Micky van de Ven in action for Tottenham (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, his departure would be a huge blow for the London club. They are already expected to lose Cristian Romero, who wants to join a more ambitious team. Losing both of their best defenders in one window would be a catastrophic situation for Tottenham.
It will be interesting to see if they can convince the Dutch International to continue at the club beyond the season. However, it seems unlikely.
The 24-year-old is at the peak of his career, and this is the right time for him to take the next step. Joining an elite club where he can fight for league titles and the UEFA Champions League would be ideal for him.
“As it stands nothing is agreed. The only thing we currently know is that Yan is determined to help Leipzig finish in the top-four before then focussing on the World Cup with Ivory Coast. There is no denying the interest, nobody has. But let’s see how the coming months pan out,” a source close to Diomande’s camp said.
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Can Liverpool sign Yan Diomande?
It will be interesting to see if Liverpool can get the deal done for him. They need more quality in the wide areas, and the 19-year-old would be a solid addition. He has proven himself in Germany, and he could make his mark in England as well. He has the physicality and technical attributes for Premier League football.
Liverpool could use his flair and explosive pace in the final third. It remains to be seen whether they can beat the other interested parties in the transfer race. The 19-year-old could be an asset for all four clubs.
RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande in action (Photo by Boris Streubel/Getty Images)
Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea could use more quality on the flanks as well. They need to add more unpredictability going forward. The 19-year-old could be the ideal long-term acquisition for them. It remains to be seen where he ends up.
Diomande will want to compete at the highest level and fight for major trophies. He will look to join a team with a formidable project.
Meanwhile, the player is likely to cost around €100 million. Even though he has done nothing to justify the pricetag, he is an elite talent, and any club hoping to sign him will have to pay a premium.
Real Madrid playmaker Franco Mastantuono has been linked with a move away from the club at the end of the season.
According to a report from Fichajes, Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the player. Real Madrid would be willing to facilitate his departure for a substantial €50 million offer.
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It will be interesting to see if Tottenham is willing to pay that kind of money for him. They could use more cutting-edge and creativity in the final third. The 18-year-old would be a solid long-term acquisition.
Even though he has done nothing to justify the €50 million price tag, he could prove to be a future investment and justify the outlay in the long term. It remains to be seen how the situation develops. Along with Tottenham, Brighton are keeping tabs on his situation as well.
The Argentine playmaker is highly rated, and he has a bright future. He could develop into a future star with the right guidance. The opportunity to join Tottenham could be exciting for him, especially if they are willing to offer him regular game time.
The highly rated playmaker will not want to sit on the bench at Real Madrid. He needs more opportunities in order to develop further. The move to the Premier League could be ideal for him. It remains to be seen whether Tottenham come forward with an official proposal to get the deal done.
Tottenham would do well to sign a player of his calibre, and he could develop into a key player for them in future. They have done well to groom young players in the past, and they could help the South American fulfil his potential as well.
Although Virgil van Dijk remains key to Arne Slot's plans, Liverpool are already looking for a potential replacement due to his advancing age. With this in mind, they have set their sights on a star Premier League defender valued at £135 million, competing with Manchester United.
Amid a difficult season, Virgil van Dijk has remained one of Liverpool’s standout performers, leading the team from the back. Despite this, the Dutchman’s contract runs until 2027, and a renewal appears complicated. As a result, the Reds are reportedly targeting a Premier League defensive star valued at $135 million. However, they would have to compete with Manchester United to secure his signing.
According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool are closely monitoring Micky van de Ven, who is looking to leave Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2026. Despite being under contract until 2029, his team has set a price tag of £100 million (around $135 million).The Reds reportedly view him as the ideal long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk. However, Manchester United have also entered the race, further complicating a potential move to Anfield.
Although Arne Slot will already have Jérémy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni at his disposal next season, the potential arrival of Micky van de Ven would be a game-changer. He would not only make an immediate impact at Liverpool, but also represent a long-term investment, as he is just 24 years old and already shining in the Premier League. Moreover, he could even thrive alongside Virgil van Dijk, covering for the possible departure of Ibrahima Konaté.
Far from being simply a matter of paying the $135 million fee, Liverpool could face a significant challenge in convincing van de Ven. Just as he would be an ideal solution at Anfield, the young Dutchman would also fit perfectly at Manchester United. In addition, they appear to be on track to qualify for the UEFA Champions League, which could give them an edge in the race. As a result, Micky could also be tempted to form a strong partnership with Matthijs de Ligt.
Micky van de Ven of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates his team’s first goal.
Not only van de Ven: Liverpool could chase other roster reinforcements
Following a successful era led by Jürgen Klopp, Liverpool are facing an imminent change of cycle, backing Arne Slot as their undisputed leader. Despite having invested €482 million, the Reds continue to struggle to find consistency. As a result, they could look to make several changes to their roster, allowing key players to depart. In turn, the coach could receive multiple reinforcements — not just Micky van de Ven.
While Andrew Robertson and Ibrahima Konaté are set to see their contracts expire in the summer of 2026, Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker are under contract until 2027, yet all are reportedly heading toward potential exits. Alongside them, Federico Chiesa and Cody Gakpo are also being linked with departures. For this reason, the Reds could not only pursue the signing of Micky van de Ven, but also Yan Diomande, in search of an attacking boost.
Kylian Mbappe has been reportedly hit with an injury setback prior to the UEFA Champions League clash between Real Madrid and Benfica.
Kylian Mbappé has been one of the few consistent bright spots in what has been a turbulent 2025-26 season for Real Madrid, as the club prepares for a decisive UEFA Champions League showdown against Benfica. However, less than 24 hours before kickoff, the French star has reportedly suffered an injury setback, raising concern within Los Blancos ahead of the crucial fixture.
According to L’Équipe, Mbappé was unable to complete Real Madrid’s final training session after once again experiencing discomfort in his left knee. As a result of the setback, the forward is expected to be rested and will not feature against Benfica, dealing a significant blow to Madrid’s plans for the UEFA Champions League encounter.
As the French outlet reported, Mbappé underwent tests in the afternoon that revealed the knee, an area that has troubled him in recent months, is still far from fully healed. While a recovery timeline has not been determined, the Frenchman’s availability for Wednesday’s match at the Santiago Bernabéu has effectively been ruled out.
Earlier in Tuesday’s press conference, head coach Álvaro Arbeloa had said Mbappé was fit for the Champions League clash: “Kylian is ready to play Wednesday and that’s what matters most. For several weeks now, everyone has known it… And I want to highlight the dedication he shows. Toward his teammates, his team, his coach, his club, his supporters.“
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid speaks to Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica.
Mbappé’s knee discomfort resurfaces
This is not the first time Mbappé has been sidelined from key matches because of knee trouble. Toward the end of 2025, during a Madrid training session, the forward felt discomfort, and an MRI later revealed damage to the lateral collateral ligament in his left knee.
Because of that injury, Mbappé missed the La Liga match against Real Betis on Jan. 4 and the Spanish Super Cup semifinal against Atlético Madrid four days later. Despite not traveling to Saudi Arabia with the squad, he pushed to appear in the Jan. 11 final against FC Barcelona, playing just 14 minutes.
After that effort, and following the dismissal of coach Xabi Alonso after the lost final, Mbappé continued featuring regularly for Madrid, completing 90 minutes in eight of the club’s last nine matches across all competitions. However, the discomfort never fully subsided, and with a pivotal European showdown looming, resting the team’s star forward is viewed internally as the safest course to avoid a more serious setback.
Mbappé, eager to avoid any setback for the 2026 World Cup
Mbappé currently stands as Real Madrid’s leading scorer in the UEFA Champions League with 13 goals this season, which underscores how significant his absence could be. With Madrid holding only a one-goal aggregate edge over Benfica, losing their most clinical finisher represents a major blow heading into the decisive stretch of the tie.
Still, with the tournament set to kick off in less than five months, any issue involving his knee would raise serious concern for both Mbappé and the France national team. Sitting out against Benfica is therefore a decision shaped not only by Champions League priorities, but also by the long-term objective of ensuring he is fully fit for this summer’s global showcase in North America.
Vinicius and more important players are at risk of suspension for Real Madrid's potential Champions League round of 16 with a yellow card
Vinicius was the protagonist of the first leg in the Champions League playoff against Benfica due to a controversy over an alleged racist incident involving Gianluca Prestianni. His importance makes him the focus again, as he could miss the next match through suspension if Real Madridprogress from this round.
The Brazilian scored the winning goal in Portugal to give his team the lead heading back to Spain. However, the referee deemed his celebration excessive and showed him a yellow card, putting him at risk of suspension if he receives another in Wednesday’s match.
There are five more players who are at risk of missing the round of 16. Jude Bellingham looks like the most irreplaceable on the list, but he should be available because he will not play this rematch due to injury. Rodrygo is another player at risk who will not play in Madrid. Álvaro Carreras, Aurelien Tchouameni and Dean Huijsen are the other three.
Real Madrid’s potential rivals
The new Champions League format raised doubts when it was announced. Using unified standings to rank all 36 teams did not seem straightforward, but it has produced exciting outcomes, such as Benfica qualifying for this round at Real Madrid’s expense.
Bellingham can’t play this match because of an injury (Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
This also produced a different type of bracket for the knockout rounds than what everyone was used to since the competition changed its structure in the 1990s. Potential opponents will be decided by a mini draw.
Real Madrid will not know who they will face in the round of 16 until the draw. The opponent will be randomly selected from two very different options. Manchester City or Sporting CP are the clubs they could play in the next round.
When do the yellow cards accumulation end?
The rule states that after a player receives three yellow cards, he is suspended for one match. This is not usually a major focus in short series like this one, but it can influence how managers use substitutions.
Yellow card tallies are reset after the quarterfinals, but if a player receives his third booking in the second leg of that round, he will miss the first semifinal match. If Rodrygo or Bellingham pick up a yellow card in the quarterfinals, they could miss the rematch or the first leg of the semifinals.
Vinicius and more will miss the round of 16 with a yellow card
Months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins, Mexico received a warning from Lionel Messi.
Mexico, the United States, and Canada will host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the world’s biggest sporting event. Hosting such a tournament is a great honor and could even be an advantage, but it also comes with significant challenges, as Lionel Messi explained.
The Argentine forward spoke in an interview on the Miro de Atras podcast, hosted by his former Argentina teammate Nahuel Guzman, who has been playing in Liga MX for several years. Among other topics, Leo discussed what the upcoming World Cup could mean for Mexico.
“Now there’s a nice opportunity coming for you and for the United States. Being the World Cup at home, for better or worse, it has an influence,” Messi began, speaking to the Mexican journalists who also participated in the interview. “If things go well, it can be a great opportunity, because playing at home makes a difference. Likewise, if things go badly for you, it will also be noticed.”
Messi knows what he’s talking about, as during his long international career with Argentina, he had the chance to play a major tournament at home: the 2011 Copa America. That was probably the toughest tournament of his entire national team career, largely due to fan criticism after disappointing results.
Lionel Messi of Argentina lifts the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Winner’s Trophy.
The pressure affected the team’s performance under then-coach Sergio Batista, which drew against Bolivia and Colombia in their first two matches and only secured a spot in the knockout stages in the final game against Costa Rica. The story ended bitterly, however, as Argentina were eliminated by Uruguay in the quarterfinals.
Messi recalls the matches against Mexico
In the same conversation, Messi reflected on the matches he has played against Mexico with Argentina. “We’ve crossed paths a lot in important competitions. Aside from the last one in the group stage, the others were always knockout games,” the forward recalled.
Since Messi began his journey with Argentina in 2005, Mexico have been one of the teams he has faced most often in official tournaments. Both teams met in the 2007 Copa America and the 2006, 2010, and 2022 World Cups, all resulting in victories for Argentina.
The Qatar 2022 match was particularly important, even though it was in the group stage, because a loss would have meant Argentina’s elimination. “That game against Mexico was decisive for us and one of the ones we suffered the most. So much was at stake,” Messi recalled, scoring the opener in Argentina’s 2-0 win. Looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup, he expressed his wish: “Hopefully we don’t face each other this time.”
Is it an advantage to be a World Cup host?
Being the host of a World Cup can add extra pressure to a national team, as Messi noted, but historically, results have varied. In six of the 22 editions, the host nation went on to win the tournament. This happened with Uruguay in 1930, Italy in 1934, England in 1966, West Germany in 1974, Argentina in 1978, and France in 1998.
That success rate might seem low, but it’s important to consider that many host countries historically had little realistic chance of winning the tournament. Even so, host nations often performed above expectations.
In several cases, a team’s best performance came precisely when they hosted the World Cup. This includes Switzerland (fifth place in 1954), Sweden (finalists in 1958), Chile (semifinalists in 1962), and South Korea (semifinalists in 2002). The most emblematic case is Mexico, which has only reached the quarterfinals twice in its history—both times at home, in 1970 and 1986.
With Harry Kane leading the line and Jude Bellingham emerging as the heartbeat of the midfield, the national team arrived at World Cup 2026 with enormous expectations and genuine title ambitions. But months before a ball is kicked, the tournament’s preparations are already spiraling into uncertainty, and one of the national team’s key group-stage fixtures is now facing an […]
With Harry Kane leading the line and Jude Bellingham emerging as the heartbeat of the midfield, the national team arrived at World Cup 2026 with enormous expectations and genuine title ambitions. But months before a ball is kicked, the tournament’s preparations are already spiraling into uncertainty, and one of the national team’s key group-stage fixtures is now facing an extraordinary threat.
What makes the situation even more surreal is that the issue has nothing to do with injuries, tactical decisions, or even soccer. Instead, a bizarre off-field dispute has plunged one of England‘s matches into serious doubt, leaving fans, organizers, and the national team scrambling for answers.
The World Cup is meant to be the pinnacle of global soccer, but the build-up in North America has been riddled with unexpected complications. With just four months remaining until kick-off, organizers are facing mounting logistical headaches, political shifts, and funding disputes that threaten to derail key aspects of the tournament.
One of the most alarming developments surrounds the match scheduled at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, a venue set to host several high-profile fixtures, including group-stage clashes and a knockout game. Thousands of supporters have already booked flights, hotels, and tickets, believing the tournament would proceed smoothly. Instead, the fixture has become a symbol of the tournament’s growing instability.
A general view of the stadium at Gillette Stadium on December 08, 2025 in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
The bizarre reason behind the match threat
In the middle of the controversy lies the core issue that could derail the national team’s fixture. Foxborough officials have warned they will refuse to issue the crucial entertainment licence required to host World Cup matches unless they receive $7.3 million in security funding to cover public safety costs, as per The Mirror and Daily Record.
Despite years of planning by local police and fire departments, the town claims it cannot afford to front the money while waiting for reimbursement from federal authorities. Without the licence, the matches could be cancelled or moved hundreds of miles away, causing chaos for fans and organizers alike.
Without the funding, vital safety equipment has not been ordered, preparations remain incomplete, and the licence deadline is looming on March 17. If the deadline passes without resolution, FIFA may be forced to relocate matches, triggering logistical nightmares.
Thomas Tuchel, Head Coach of England.
Fans facing potential travel disaster
The potential fallout for supporters is immense. Fans have already spent thousands of dollars on travel, accommodation, and match tickets, expecting to see the national team live in North America. A last-minute relocation would force them to reorganize plans at massive personal cost, with no guarantee of refunds or alternative arrangements, the Daily Express adds.
Relocating the match could also impact the tournament schedule, logistics, and competitive balance, as teams would need to adapt to new venues, climates, and travel demands. Whether Foxborough receives the funding in time remains unclear. But one thing is certain: the road to World Cup 2026 is proving to be as unpredictable and dramatic off the pitch as it will be on it.
Jude Bellingham of England and Harry Kane of England look on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez made a candid take on whether Cristiano Ronaldo needs to win the World Cup to be called the greatest soccer player in history.
Cristiano Ronaldo has continued to defy the standards of modern soccer, extending his legacy as the sport’s all-time leading scorer even at 41 years old, with the 2026 World Cup representing his final chance to lift the trophy. With less than five months until the tournament begins, Roberto Martinez, head coach of Portugal national team, weighed in on whether the legend needs a World Cup title to officially cement his status as the GOAT.
After being eliminated in the quarterfinals by Morocco national team at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and with Ronaldo seen in tears in the tunnel on his way back to the locker room, many expected him to step away from international duty. Instead, the striker helped Portugal capture the UEFA Nations League title and is now preparing for one last World Cup push when the tournament kicks off in North America.
Speaking on the Portugal Football Summit podcast, Martinez said a World Cup triumph would enhance Ronaldo’s legacy but isn’t required to validate it: “He will be the greatest player ever, whether he wins the World Cup or not. Our responsibility is to give ourselves the best possible chance to compete for it.“
The Spanish coach also stressed that replicating the formula that led to Nations League success will be crucial this summer. “That comes from analyzing, improving constantly, and maintaining the same mindset that helped us succeed in the Nations League,” Martinez added.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Roberto Martinez, head coach of Portugal.
Ronaldo’s role in Portugal
After his move to Saudi Arabia in 2022, there were expectations that Ronaldo’s influence with the national team would diminish. Instead, he has remained Portugal’s undisputed captain and is also the leading scorer of Martinez’s tenure, with 25 goals in the 36 matches the coach has overseen.
Martinez spoke candidly about the veteran’s impact during the Nations League triumph: “It was essential for our confidence and belief. When you analyse the Nations League, it is probably the most demanding format: 10 matches over 10 months, five different camps, and decisive knockout matches.“
Portugal ultimately secured the title by winning the Final Four, first defeating Germany national team in Munich and then beating Spain national team in the final, with La Roja entering as favorites after their recent European Championship triumph. “Winning in Germany, where Portugal had not won for 25 years, and facing a European champion in the final, gave the group incredible confidence for the future,” the coach added.
What’s next for Portugal?
After finishing atop their qualifying group, Portugal have been drawn into a World Cup group alongside Uzbekistan national team, Colombia national team, and one of the intercontinental playoff winners. To prepare for the tournament, the Seleção have lined up friendlies aimed at sharpening match fitness and tactical rhythm.
Portugal’s next fixtures come during the March international window, when they travel to North America to face Mexico national team on the 28th and the United States men’s national team on U.S. soil on the 31st. Those matches will mark Ronaldo’s first appearance in Mexico and his return to the United States, where he’s widely expected to be part of Martinez’s squad as preparations for the World Cup enter their final phase.
Frustration, public criticism, and even a brief boycott of matches fueled rumors that the Portuguese icon could be preparing another dramatic career twist.
The future of Cristiano Ronaldo has rarely been quiet, but recent weeks have seen speculation reach a new peak. Frustration, public criticism, and even a brief boycott of matches fueled rumors that the Portuguese icon could be preparing another dramatic career twist. At Al-Nassr, tensions behind the scenes had raised questions about his long-term commitment, while clubs across Europe and beyond were mentioned as potential destinations.
Yet, amid the noise, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner continued to deliver on the pitch, scoring goals and keeping himself at the center of the global soccer conversation. The speculation surrounding Ronaldo’s future intensified after reports of growing dissatisfaction with how resources were distributed within the Saudi Pro League. The Portuguese superstar reportedly accused the league of favoring certain clubs while neglecting others, leading to frustration that culminated in a brief spell out of action.
Despite the controversy, the 41-year-old returned to the pitch in emphatic fashion, scoring three goals in two matches and reminding everyone that, even at this stage of his career, he remains one of the sport’s most decisive figures.
The uncertainty sparked widespread speculation about potential next destinations. A sentimental return to Sporting Lisbon was floated as a nostalgic storyline, while domestic rivals Al-Hilal, MLS side Inter Miami, Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, and French outfit Marseille were all cited as hypothetical landing spots. Each scenario carried its own intrigue, from marketing impact to tactical reinvention and renewed trophy ambitions.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr looks on during the Saudi Pro League match.
The final decision revealed
In the middle of the swirling rumors, clarity has now arrived. According to Saudi journalist Ahmed Al-Jedi, Ronaldo has made a definitive call regarding his future. “Cristiano Ronaldo will not leave the Saudi Pro League or his club, Al Nassr. A legend. Professionalism. Popularity. Influence that everyone envies. In short: Al Nassr and Ronaldo are twins, and their story will only end with championships.”
This revelation marks a decisive moment after weeks of uncertainty, signaling a renewed commitment to the project and a desire to continue building his legacy in the Middle East.
Fabrizio Romano’s insight: Commitment to the project
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano further confirmed the superstar’s stance, shedding light on the nature of the earlier tensions and Ronaldo’s mindset. “Cristiano is happy at Al-Nassr, and now Cristiano confirms: ‘I belong to Saudi Arabia. I want to continue in Saudi Arabia.’ Cristiano is showing commitment to the project. Cristiano is absolutely determined to make history at Al-Nassr.”
Romano explained that the disputes were largely related to budget management and the Saudi Public Investment Fund rather than a breakdown in relationships with the club’s management or coaching staff. The resolution of those issues appears to have reassured Ronaldo and reinforced his belief in the project.
Serie A giants Juventus are in hunt of a new goalkeeper and have identified Tottenham star Guglielmo Vicario as a target.
According to The Standard, the “Old Lady” is looking to bring the 29-year-old back to Serie A as they weigh up a major change between the sticks for the 2026-27 season.
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While Juventus have yet to finalise their summer budget, they have identified Vicario as a high-priority target to provide elite competition for, or potentially replace, the struggling Michele Di Gregorio.
Guglielmo Vicario’s camp holds talks with Juventus
(Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images)
As per the report, while Vicario is not a primary target, if budget allows they will look to make a move for him as well.
It is further reported that the representatives of Vicario have already held talks with Juventus ahead of a potential summer move.
Vicario joined Spurs from Empoli in 2023 and initially became a fan favorite. however, his desire for a return to his homeland has intensified as Tottenham’s season has unraveled.
Juventus are reportedly keen to beat rivals Inter Milan to his signature, with both clubs viewing him as a long-term solution.
The reported fee of €25-30 million (£21.7m-26.1m) is seen as a bargain for a player of his pedigree, and it’s a figure that fits comfortably within Juventus’ financial guidelines.
With the club currently sitting 16th in the Premier League and facing a genuine threat of relegation, the hierarchy is planning to “rip up” the existing wage structure and move on from several high-earning stars.
It has been reported that Tottenham would be open to a sale depending on the fee offered and Vicario’s own desire for a return to Italy.
Arsenal may have secured a dominant 4-1 victory over Tottenham on Sunday, but Manchester United legend Paul Scholes was far from impressed with Declan Rice’s temperament during the North London derby.
Despite the convincing scoreline, Scholes believes Rice’s lack of “calmness” in high-pressure situations could hurt Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions.
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Paul Scholes questions Declan Rice leadership during Arsenal vs Tottenham
(Photo by Vince Mignott/MB Media/Getty Images)
Speaking on the Good, the Bad and the Football podcast alongside Nicky Butt, Scholes took aim at Rice’s behavior just moments before a critical error allowed Tottenham back into the contest.
The incident occurred shortly after Eberechi Eze had given Arsenal the lead.
Rice was captured on camera vigorously gesturing to his teammates to maintain their focus.
However, less than two minutes later, Rice was caught in possession by Randal Kolo Muani, whose clinical finish leveled the game at 1-1.
Scholes was unimpressed by the midfielder’s animated approach. He said:
“I don’t like all that [Rice geeing up the crowd]. When I look at Declan Rice, he almost looks too emotional. He’s lively, he’s, ‘Come on! Come on! Come on!’ and then he makes his mistake.
When you’re going for a league title, when you’ve got tough games, there has to be a calmness about you.”
Scholes compared Rice’s leadership style to that of his former captain, Roy Keane, noting that the legendary Irishman led with a sense of “calmness” rather than frantic animation.
“People will call me a miserable b******, but game-management in game situations needs a calmness,” he added.
Declan Rice’s importance to Arsenal remains undeniable
Since his £105 million move from West Ham in 2023, Rice has been instrumental under Mikel Arteta.
He transformed Arsenal’s midfield almost immediately, winning the club’s Player of the Season award last year and registering eight goal contributions this campaign.
Arsenal maintained their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League table following the win over Tottenham, keeping their title challenge firmly on track.
Arteta was quick to defend his midfielder after the match, praising Rice’s “courage to stand up” following the error and emphasising his influence across the season.
However, with Manchester City still looming in the title race, it will be important for Rice and others to remain calm amid the mounting pressure.
Real Madrid return to the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday evening aiming to protect a narrow advantage in their Champions League knockout round playoff. Los Blancos carry a 1–0 lead into the second leg thanks to Vinícius Júnior’s strike in Lisbon, though the fallout from that match has ensured this tie remains fraught with additional tension. […]
Returning to the French capital holding a slender advantage on Wednesday night, PSG will welcome domestic foes Monaco to the Parc des Princes for what could be another Champions League thriller. Mounting an iconic first-leg comeback on their travels last week, the reigning European champions will certainly be hoping for smoother sailing here as they […]
Manchester United booked important three points as they aim to qualify for next season’s Champions League by beating Everton away on Monday evening. The only goal of the game was the work of Benjamin Sesko, but goalkeeper Senne Lammens certainly played his part, denying the Toffees on numerous occasions. Speaking to the press after the […]
According to Fichajes, Manchester United are considering a move to bring Scott McTominay back to Old Trafford from Napoli, and the Serie A champions are open to the idea of cashing in on his services. The figure of €80million is mentioned as a potential fee. McTominay made the move from United to Napoli in 2024, […]
Following his impressive performances, Marcus Rashford’s permanent signing has become a priority for Barcelona. While he had seemed to be drifting away due to his high transfer fee, the Blaugranas have reportedly taken a step forward in their bid to secure his continuity.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Barcelona have established themselves as one of the most dynamic attacking teams. Not only have Lamine Yamal and Raphinha excelled, but Marcus Rashford has also stepped up, shining both as a scorer and a creator. Despite this, the Englishman seemed to drift away from a permanent move, but Hansi Flick’s team has reportedly taken a step forward to secure his talent.
According to Nicolò Schira on X, formerly Twitter, Barcelona have already met with Marcus Rashford’s agent in an effort to bring positions closer regarding a permanent transfer from Manchester United. Following this, the Englishman would have reached an agreement with the Blaugranas on a contract running until 2030, making it clear that this is the player’s priority. However, the Spanish side are still seeking to reach an agreement with the Red Devils.
Holding an option-to-buy valued at around €30-35 million, the Blaugranas have a unilateral chance to secure a permanent move, but they are reportedly trying to reduce the amount. Nonetheless, Rashford’s impressive performances are catching Manchester United’s attention, as they consider either giving him a role within the team or pursuing a higher transfer to another team like PSG. For that reason, the Spanish side may be forced to pay the full amount.
Marcus Rashford has established himself as one of Barcelona’s best players, scoring 10 goals and providing 12 assists in 34 matches. Despite this, his permanent signing reportedly does not fully convince the front office, as they are also looking to pursue a younger alternative such as Jan Virgili. However, the Englishman appears to be gaining ground thanks to his immediate impact on the team, something that is far from easy to achieve.
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona misses a chance during the Girona game.
Barcelona may face a growing doubt: Experience or Youth
With Raphinha established as the option on the left wing, Barcelona are looking to secure a reliable backup in order to better manage his physical workload. While Rashford has fit perfectly into the team’s system, doubts are emerging over whether he represents a long-term solution, as he is 28 years old and may not be the best choice to build the club’s future around. With this in mind, they could be forced to decide whether to prioritize experience or youth.
In the 34 matches he has played this season, Marcus Rashford has managed to place himself among the team’s top scorers and top assist providers. Alongside this, the Englishman has delivered an immediate impact, adapting to Hansi Flick’s ideas. While a bet like Jan Virgili could be ideal for the future, he would represent uncertainty in terms of performance. He could even take time to contribute in the same way as the Englishman.
According to Sergi Capdevila of Diario Sport, the Blaugranas have already decided to go all in for Marcus Rashford, having reached the conclusion that there is no player who can offer the same on-field performance for that price. Because of this, they could look to Barcelona Atlètic for a future-oriented bet, with Toni Fernández, Dani Rodríguez, and Shane Kluivert emerging as the leading candidates to gain prominence in the coming seasons.
At Milan, the American star has built a reputation as a key attacking force, yet questions are now quietly emerging about what comes next.
In modern soccer, careers are rarely linear, and narratives can shift within weeks. Christian Pulisic finds himself at the center of a growing storm of speculation, while Mohamed Salah remains the benchmark that clubs and fans continue to measure elite wingers against. At Milan, the American star has built a reputation as a key attacking force, yet questions are now quietly emerging about what comes next. Meanwhile, in England, Liverpool is monitoring a familiar name as they begin to imagine life after their iconic Egyptian forward.
For much of his time in Italy, Pulisic has been hailed as a renaissance figure, a player who rediscovered his best form after an inconsistent spell in England. His contributions in Serie A have been significant, establishing him as one of the club’s most reliable attacking outlets. Yet the latest reports suggest his future is no longer straightforward, with decisions looming that could shape the next phase of his career.
According to Corriere dello Sport, the American forward is approaching a crucial moment in his contract cycle, with discussions over renewal underway. While the club is eager to secure his long-term commitment, the player is taking a cautious approach, evaluating every detail of his professional trajectory. The uncertainty comes at a delicate time, with his recent form and fitness raising questions about his immediate trajectory, while interest from abroad continues to grow.
Pulisic and Milan no longer sure about future together?
The forward’s current deal runs until 2027, but the timing of negotiations has made his future a hot topic within the club hierarchy. The management sees him as a central figure in their sporting project and wants to avoid losing him amid growing international interest. However, Pulisic’s camp is reportedly weighing several factors before committing to a new agreement. The decision is not just financial; it is also sporting, strategic, and personal. The allure of new challenges in different leagues, coupled with his international profile, has complicated the renewal process.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913
The club’s coach, Massimiliano Allegri, is believed to be a major admirer of the American winger, viewing him as a tactical cornerstone. Despite recent physical issues, Allegri reportedly values his versatility and experience, considering him indispensable for the team’s ambitions, especially if they return to the Champions League. Beyond sporting reasons, the club also recognizes his commercial impact, particularly in North America, making him a valuable asset both on and off the pitch.
The uncertainty around Pulisic’s contract has sparked speculation about a potential attacking overhaul. Italian journalist Peppe Di Stefano of Sky Italia recently hinted that changes could be on the horizon, suggesting that even key stars might not be guaranteed to stay. “A revolution in attack wouldn’t surprise me, especially since I see difficulties renewing some contracts, like Pulisic’s, for example,” Di Stefano said.
Pulisic and his attacking partner, Rafael Leao, have struggled with injuries, limiting their time together on the pitch, which has further fueled speculation about the club’s long-term planning.
Rafael Leao of AC Milan (L) celebrates after scoring his goal with Christian Pulisic of AC Milan (R)
Liverpool’s watchful eye and the Salah parallel
While the Italian club navigates contract negotiations, interest from England is intensifying. Liverpool is reportedly monitoring Pulisic as a potential successor to Mohamed Salah, whose long-term future remains uncertain. The parallels between their careers are striking. Salah left Chelsea, rebuilt his reputation in Italy, and returned to England to become a Premier League legend. Pulisic followed a similar path, struggling for consistency in London before flourishing in Serie A.
This season, the American star has delivered strong numbers, with double-digit goals and consistent attacking output, reinforcing his status as one of Europe’s most productive wide players. Analysts have noted that his efficiency per minute is approaching the levels Salah displayed during his peak years at Liverpool.
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool during Brighton’s game.
Former Reds’ striker Emile Heskey has openly backed the American as a viable option for the Reds. “I actually quite like Christian Pulisic. He is very direct. He probably didn’t get as many goals as I would have liked him to get at Chelsea, but I thought he gave defences problems,” Heskey said, before adding, “Mo left Chelsea to go to Italy and look at what he’s done for Liverpool. I think it’d be great to see someone like Pulisic come back into the Premier League in the same way.”
Christian Pulisic (left) and Mohamed Salah (right)
Despite his impressive level, Luka Modrić does not appear to have his future at AC Milan settled. Moreover, Christian Pulisic could lose the Croatian midfielder, as the veteran is reportedly drawing closer to an unexpected team as a free agent.
Amid Christian Pulisic’s dip in form, AC Milan have managed to remain competitive by relying on midfield solidity. Massimiliano Allegri has succeeded in bringing out the best version of Adrien Rabiot, while also giving significant minutes to youngsters Samuele Ricci and Ardon Jashari. Nevertheless, the coach could lose Luka Modrić, as he has not yet renewed his contract. In addition, the veteran is reportedly edging closer to an unexpected team.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Luka Modrić is considering not renewing his contract with AC Milan. Instead, he could be close to returning to Dinamo Zagreb after the 2026 World Cup. Far from being a settled decision, the Croatian also has a potential professional retirement on the table. With this in mind, the Rossoneri have only a few months to try to convince the veteran to extend his contract by at least one additional year.
Despite being a 40-year-old veteran, he is the fourth player with the most minutes played under coach Massimiliano Allegri. Moreover, Luka has established himself as the central axis of the Rossoneri, dictating play and organizing the team. For this reason, AC Milan have made it a priority to secure his continuity for one more season, aiming for Ardon Jashari to gradually take over his role.
Modrić might find an open door to stay with the Rossoneri, but a return to Dinamo Zagreb is gaining significant traction. With his childhood idol, Zvonimir Boban, serving as the club president, he could feel tempted to join as a free agent. As the 2026 World Cup looms as a crucial reference point, the Croatian might base his decision on his performance in the tournament. This means his future might not be settled anytime soon.
Luka Modric of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A game.
AC Milan may need another midfield signing as Modric’s future hangs
Massimiliano Allegri has successfully transformed AC Milan’s midfield into a major strength. With Modrić as the central axis, they consistently maintain balance and control during matches. Although the Rossoneri possess quality alternatives in case Luka decides to leave, such as Samuele Ricci and Jashari, they might need to sign a star midfielder to sustain their high level of performance.
Throughout the season, coach Allegri has attempted to elevate the roles of Ricci and Jashari. Although they have impressed, their performances as central midfielders have raised several organizational questions. As a result, AC Milan might consider signing a world-class midfielder, with names like Mateo Kovačić, Leon Goretzka, or Bernardo Silva being mentioned as potential targets.
Christian Pulisic and Luka Modric of AC Milan celebrates the victory after during the Serie A match.
Chelsea are interested in signing the Independiente Del Valle midfielder Patrik Mercado at the end of the season.
According to a report from Spanish publication AS, Sevilla secured a verbal agreement to sign the player at the end of the season, but the deal is not yet complete.
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The Spanish club are hoping to secure his signature for a fee of €6 million. However, Chelsea have expressed interest in signing the player in recent hours and are hoping to seal the move. It will be interesting to see if they can get the deal done.
The talented young midfielder has done quite well for Independiente Del Valle, and he could be attracted to the idea of joining Chelsea. They are among the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to play for them will be quite exciting.
They have the resources to pay the asking price, and they should be able to convince the player as well. The midfielder registered 18 goal contributions last year, and he has the quality to develop into an important player for Chelsea. They could use more creativity and goals from the middle of the park, and the 22-year-old would be the ideal long-term investment. It remains to be seen whether they can wrap up the move at the end of the season.
Sevilla will be an exciting destination for the player, but Chelsea are one of the biggest clubs in the world. He will find it hard to turn them down if there is a concrete proposal on the table. Chelsea are looking to build a formidable team for the future, and signing the talented young midfielder could be a step in the right direction.
Liverpool and Manchester United are interested in signing the Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba.
The 27-year-old has done quite well in the Bundesliga, and he could prove to be a useful addition for the two Premier League clubs. They will look to tighten up at the back, and they need a quality central defender. The player could be available for a fee of €60 million in the summer, and it will be interesting to see which of the two clubs can get the deal done.
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Liverpool and Manchester United have the finances to sign the player. They are among the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to join them will be exciting for Tapsoba. The 6ft 4in defender will look to establish himself as an important player in the Premier League if the move goes through.
Tapsoba could help both teams improve. He has been linked with a move to the Premier League before, and the player will certainly hope to complete one this time around.
The defender is at the peak of his career, and he will look to hit the ground running in the Premier League. It will be interesting to see if he can adapt to English football quickly and justify the asking price.
According to German outlet Fussball Daten, clubs like Real Madrid are also monitoring his situation. Liverpool and Manchester United should act quickly in order to get the deal done.
Liverpool will need a replacement for Ibrahima Konate, who will be a free agent at the end of the season. At Manchester United, he could be the ideal long-term replacement for Harry Maguire. It will be interesting to see where he ends up eventually.
Manchester United are interested in signing the Villarreal midfielder Papa Gueye.
According to a report from Fichajes, the 27-year-old La Liga midfielder has attracted the attention of the Premier League club with his impressive performances, and they are hoping to secure his signature in the summer.
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The report further claims that the Premier League side would be willing to pay €60 million in order to get the deal done. It is no secret that they need no more physicality and defensive steel in the middle of the park. After Casemiro’s departure, they will need to find a reliable midfielder, and Gueye could be the ideal acquisition.
The Senegalese international has had an impressive season with the Spanish outfit, and he has the physicality and technical attributes to succeed in the Premier League as well. He will help protect the defensive unit and win the ball back for his team in the middle of the park. Apart from that, he’s excellent at driving the team forward with his dribbling and distribution.
The opportunity to join Manchester United will be exciting for him. It would be a major step up in his career. It will be interesting to see if he can secure a move to the Premier League in the summer. The Spanish outfit could be tempted to sell him if an offer of €60 million is presented. It is a substantial amount of money, and they will be able to improve multiple areas of the team.
Convincing the player to join Manchester United will not be difficult either. They are among the biggest clubs in the world, and he will be tempted to take on a new challenge if they come calling.
Piero Hincapie joined Arsenal on loan at the start of the season, and they have an option to sign him permanently in the summer.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Arsenal could now look to make the move permanent in the coming months after the defender impressed with his performances in the Premier League.
A source informed TEAMtalk: “Piero has settled so well into the squad and the club as a whole. The staff are very happy with him, and he has just been getting better and better.”
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Arsenal can make the move permanent for £45 million, and Mikel Arteta has made his intention clear to the club hierarchy that he wants the deal triggered. It remains to be seen whether Arsenal can wrap up the move quickly.
The 24-year-old could be a very useful player for Arsenal going forward. He can operate as a central defender and a full back. His versatility will be a huge bonus. He has shown that he has the quality to do well in the Premier League, and he could be an asset for the club.
Arsenal certainly have the financial muscle to get the deal across the line, and it remains to be seen whether they are prepared to pay up. They are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to join them permanently will be exciting for the South American defender as well. He will look to establish himself as a key player for them in the coming seasons.
However, he is not a guaranteed starter for the North London club, and it remains to be seen whether he is prepared to join them permanently without any assurances of game time. He needs to play more often at this stage of his career.
Liverpool’s Rio Ngumoha is determined to showcase his talent on a regular basis, having helped his team to victory over Nottingham Forest on Sunday. The Reds won 1-0 at the City Ground on Sunday thanks to Alexis Mac Allister’s 97th-minute winner, with the Argentine having seen an earlier effort disallowed for a handball. In the […]
As 2026 unfolds, the American star is facing one of the most challenging stretches of his career.
In modern soccer, careers are rarely linear, and narratives can shift within weeks. Christian Pulisic finds himself at the center of a growing storm of speculation, while Mohamed Salah remains the benchmark that clubs and fans continue to measure elite wingers against. At Milan, the American star has built a reputation as a key attacking force, yet questions are now quietly emerging about what comes next. Meanwhile, in England, Liverpool is monitoring a familiar name as they begin to imagine life after their iconic Egyptian forward.
For much of his time in Italy, Pulisic has been hailed as a renaissance figure, a player who rediscovered his best form after an inconsistent spell in England. His contributions in Serie A have been significant, establishing him as one of the club’s most reliable attacking outlets. Yet the latest reports suggest his future is no longer straightforward, with decisions looming that could shape the next phase of his career.
According to Corriere dello Sport, the American forward is approaching a crucial moment in his contract cycle, with discussions over renewal underway. While the club is eager to secure his long-term commitment, the player is taking a cautious approach, evaluating every detail of his professional trajectory. The uncertainty comes at a delicate time, with his recent form and fitness raising questions about his immediate trajectory, while interest from abroad continues to grow.
Pulisic and Milan no longer sure about future together?
The forward’s current deal runs until 2027, but the timing of negotiations has made his future a hot topic within the club hierarchy. The management sees him as a central figure in their sporting project and wants to avoid losing him amid growing international interest. However, Pulisic’s camp is reportedly weighing several factors before committing to a new agreement. The decision is not just financial; it is also sporting, strategic, and personal. The allure of new challenges in different leagues, coupled with his international profile, has complicated the renewal process.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913
The club’s coach, Massimiliano Allegri, is believed to be a major admirer of the American winger, viewing him as a tactical cornerstone. Despite recent physical issues, Allegri reportedly values his versatility and experience, considering him indispensable for the team’s ambitions, especially if they return to the Champions League. Beyond sporting reasons, the club also recognizes his commercial impact, particularly in North America, making him a valuable asset both on and off the pitch.
The uncertainty around Pulisic’s contract has sparked speculation about a potential attacking overhaul. Italian journalist Peppe Di Stefano of Sky Italia recently hinted that changes could be on the horizon, suggesting that even key stars might not be guaranteed to stay. “A revolution in attack wouldn’t surprise me, especially since I see difficulties renewing some contracts, like Pulisic’s, for example,” Di Stefano said.
Pulisic and his attacking partner, Rafael Leao, have struggled with injuries, limiting their time together on the pitch, which has further fueled speculation about the club’s long-term planning.
Rafael Leao of AC Milan (L) celebrates after scoring his goal with Christian Pulisic of AC Milan (R)
Liverpool’s watchful eye and the Salah parallel
While the Italian club navigates contract negotiations, interest from England is intensifying. Liverpool is reportedly monitoring Pulisic as a potential successor to Mohamed Salah, whose long-term future remains uncertain. The parallels between their careers are striking. Salah left Chelsea, rebuilt his reputation in Italy, and returned to England to become a Premier League legend. Pulisic followed a similar path, struggling for consistency in London before flourishing in Serie A.
This season, the American star has delivered strong numbers, with double-digit goals and consistent attacking output, reinforcing his status as one of Europe’s most productive wide players. Analysts have noted that his efficiency per minute is approaching the levels Salah displayed during his peak years at Liverpool.
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool during Brighton’s game.
Former Reds’ striker Emile Heskey has openly backed the American as a viable option for the Reds. “I actually quite like Christian Pulisic. He is very direct. He probably didn’t get as many goals as I would have liked him to get at Chelsea, but I thought he gave defences problems,” Heskey said, before adding, “Mo left Chelsea to go to Italy and look at what he’s done for Liverpool. I think it’d be great to see someone like Pulisic come back into the Premier League in the same way.”
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913
After a tough start to the season, Robert Lewandowski has ceased to be an undisputed starter under Hansi Flick, casting doubts over his future. Nevertheless, the Polish striker has reportedly set himself a clear objective, seeking a contract extension with the Blaugranas.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Robert Lewandowski has ceased to be an undisputed starter under Hansi Flick, opening the door for Ferran Torres. Even so, the Polish striker remains among the players with the most minutes, but his future no longer appears entirely certain. Far from settling, he has reportedly set his sights on a specific objective, seeking a contract renewal offer from Barcelona.
According to Mateusz Borek on Sportowy Kanal, Robert Lewandowski has received a very attractive financial offer from Chicago Fire. However, the Polish striker remains focused on seeking a contract extension with Barcelona, as he and his wife are very settled in the city. To this end, the veteran has set himself the goal of scoring at least 10 more goals before the end of the season, as he believes this could open the door to a renewal.
Unlike in previous seasons, the Polish striker has experienced a decline in his goal-scoring prowess, netting only 13 goals. Consequently, Ferran Torres has stepped into the starting lineup, scoring 16 goals and emerging as the team’s top scorer this season. Despite this shift, Lewandowski remains a crucial asset for Hansi Flick. His experience is invaluable when facing top-level opponents.
Acknowledging his dip in form, Robert Lewandowski is reportedly open to accepting different terms in his new contract with Barcelona. According to Diario Sport, he is willing to take on a secondary role and reduce his current salary. This flexibility would provide Hansi Flick with a key alternative in attack while also accommodating the potential signing of a star striker, reportedly the club’s priority for the 2026–27 season.
Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona scores against RCD Espanyol.
Hansi Flick’s Barcelona may face great uncertainty in offense
Hansi Flick has decided to commit to giving Ferran Torres continuity, making him one of his key attacking pieces. As a result, Barcelona could be close to reaching an agreement to renew his contract, which would secure his continuity at the club. However, they still face several uncertainties, as there are lingering doubts not only about Lewandowski’s future but also about Marcus Rashford’s situation.
Looking ahead to the 2026–27 season, Barcelona are reportedly targeting the signing of a top-level center forward. In that scenario, a potential renewal for Lewandowski would shift Ferran to the left wing, effectively closing the door on Rashford’s future at the club. If the decision is made to let the Pole leave, the Englishman could remain with the team, meaning Hansi Flick is facing a difficult decision.
Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona looks on during pre-match warm up.
A Premier League player has been recorded as the fastest in the UEFA Champions League, even surpassing Kylian Mbappe.
Kylian Mbappe is widely recognized today as one of the most dangerous players in Europe. He has shined all season with Real Madrid, both in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, leading the scoring charts in both competitions. However, a Premier League star tops him in a key statistic.
The CIES Football Observatory recently published a ranking of the fastest players in the 2025-26 Champions League, and the top spot went to Anthony Gordon. The Newcastle winger reached a top speed of 37.9 kilometers per hour, or about 23.5 miles per hour.
With that top speed, Gordon surpassed other Champions League stars in the ranking. Anthony Elanga, also a winger for the Magpies, is the second fastest according to the study, with a top speed of 22.7 miles per hour. Behind them are the two Paris Saint-Germain full-backs: Achraf Hakimi (22.6 miles per hour) and Nuno Mendes (22.4 miles per hour).
Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United celebrates scoring a goal in the Premier League.
What is Mbappe’s top speed?
In the ranking of the fastest players competing in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, Kylian Mbappe still holds a prominent place. The Real Madrid forward ranks ninth overall, with a recorded top speed of 22.18 miles per hour.
That makes him the fastest center forward in the European competition, ahead of stars like Juventus’ Lois Openda, Liverpool’s Hugo Etikite, and Manchester City’s Erling Haaland. This is also reflected in the scoring charts, where Mbappe tops the list with 13 goals in nine matches.
The fastest players in the Champions League by position
The CIES Football Observatory study includes a breakdown by player position. As mentioned, Kylian Mbappe is the fastest center forward in the Champions League, while Anthony Gordon is the winger/side midfielder who reached the highest speed.
Among central midfielders, Tottenham Hotspur’s Archie Gray ranks first, with a top speed of 21.6 miles per hour. PSG full-backs Hakimi and Nuno Mendes lead the rankings for their position, while the fastest center back in Europe, according to the study, is Manchester City’s Abdukodir Khusanov, clocking 21.6 miles per hour.
Despite his impressive level, Weston McKennie did not have his continuity at Juventus guaranteed, as the parties initially seemed unable to reach an agreement. Resolving the issue, the USMNT star is now reportedly closing in on a major contract extension with the Vecchia Signora.
Following the arrival of Luciano Spalletti, Weston McKennie became one of the best players for the Vecchia Signora. Despite not having a place at the base of midfield, he managed to adapt and establish himself as the best mezzala in Serie A. Nevertheless, he appeared to have no future at the club, as his contract was expiring and no agreement had been reached. Now, the USMNT star is reportedly very close to extending his deal with Juventus.
According to Nicolò Schira, McKennie is nearing an agreement to renew his contract with Juventus until 2030. Under the new deal, the USMNT star will earn a salary of €4.2 million per season, plus bonuses, positioning him among the highest-paid players on the team. Coach Spalletti is choosing to maintain his core roster by retaining key players like Kenan Yildiz, who has also renewed his contract, thereby enhancing the Bianconeri’s competitiveness.
While Weston was sorting out his future, he was surrounded by rumors linking him to a return to MLS—something Nicolò Schira revealed was never in his plans, as he was aiming to continue his career in Europe. the USMNT star did have concrete approaches from Inter Milan, AS Roma, AC Milan, Aston Villa, and Olympique Marseille. Despite this interest, his priority was always to remain with the Vecchia Signora, which ultimately proved to be the decisive factor.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Spalletti has managed to bring out the best version of McKennie, with the midfielder standing out both offensively and defensively. After playing 36 matches, he scored seven goals and registered seven assists, establishing himself as one of the team’s most productive players. For that reason, his continued stay at Juventus is a major boost for the sporting project, as his versatility and impact make him a difference-maker.
Weston McKennie #16 of Juventus FC controls the ball.
Juventus reportedly push to secure Luciano Spalletti renewal
With Massimiliano Allegri’s departure in 2024, Juventus have gone through five head coaches: Paolo Montero, Thiago Motta, Igor Tudor, Massimo Brambilla, and Luciano Spalletti. However, it has been the latter who has truly made the difference, boosting the team’s competitiveness. While they do not appear on track to win the Serie A title, the front office is already pushing for his renewal, as he initially arrived on a fairly short-term contract.
Luciano Spalletti took over the Bianconeri’s head coach position in late October 2025. However, he arrived on a straightforward contract running until the end of the season, with an option to extend it for one additional year. Due to his strong impact, Juventus have already made his renewal a priority after securing Yildiz and McKennie, according to Matteo Moretto. With this, they are aiming to strengthen the roster to further boost their outlook.
Weston McKennie of Juventus celebrates after scoring a goal.
Manchester City TV schedule and streaming links Our Manchester City TV schedule constantly updates so you can follow the recent dominating side in the Premier League. As a consistent force at the summit of the sport, Manchester City is a permanent fixture on U.S. television. Following the "Cityzens" through the 2025/26 campaign requires a clear […]
Manchester City TV schedule and streaming links
Our Manchester City TV schedule constantly updates so you can follow the recent dominating side in the Premier League.
As a consistent force at the summit of the sport, Manchester Cityis a permanent fixture on U.S. television. Following the “Cityzens” through the 2025/26 campaign requires a clear understanding of the current broadcasting landscape. Whether they are defending their domestic status or chasing European glory, this guide ensures American fans have the most accurate roadmap to catch every match live.
Manchester City: At a Glance
Manager: Pep Guardiola
Stadium: Etihad Stadium
Major Honors: 10 League Titles, 1 Champions League, 7 FA Cups
Current Pillars: Erling Haaland, Phil Foden, Rodri, Josko Gvardiol
The U.S. Viewing Guide for Manchester City
Broadcast rights for Manchester City matches in the 2025/26 season are distributed across several primary providers depending on the competition.
Premier League: NBC Sports
NBC Universal remains the exclusive home of the Premier League in the United States.
Televised Matches: Marquee fixtures frequently air on USA Network or the main NBC channel. These stations are accessible via live TV services like Sling Blue, Hulu + Live TV, and DirecTV Stream.
Peacock Exclusive: A significant portion of City’s league schedule streams exclusively on Peacock Premium. If the match isn’t listed on a traditional TV channel, it will be found here.
Spanish Language: Telemundo and Universo provide Spanish-language coverage for select Premier League matches.
UEFA Champions League: Paramount+ & ViX
For City’s midweek European nights, the rights belong to CBS and TelevisaUnivision.
Paramount+: The indispensable home for English-language streaming of every Champions League fixture.
ViX: Offers comprehensive Spanish-language streaming for all UEFA club competitions.
Domestic Cup Ties: FA Cup & Carabao Cup
The FA Cup: Every round of this historic tournament is found exclusively on ESPN+.
The Carabao Cup: These fixtures generally stream on Paramount+, the U.S. home for English Football League cup action.
The Manchester City Identity and Global Impact
Manchester City’s era of dominance is defined by a commitment to technical excellence and the revolutionary approach to positional play pioneered by Pep Guardiola. Under his guidance, the club has maintained its status at the absolute pinnacle of the sport through a world-class infrastructure and a recruitment strategy that prioritizes high-IQ footballers capable of thriving in a sophisticated, high-possession system.
The identity of the club is currently anchored by generational talents like Erling Haalandand Phil Foden, alongside the tactical dominance of Rodri in the heart of the midfield. Beyond the trophy count, Man City is recognized for its lasting influence on the modern game, transforming the Etihad Stadium into a global center for tactical innovation. For fans in the United States, supporting City means watching a team that consistently pushes the boundaries of the sport, backed by one of the most successful sporting projects in history.
Crystal Palace are beginning to shape their managerial plans for the upcoming season, and Sean Dyche has emerged as one of several names under consideration, according to Football Insider.
The experienced Premier League coach is understood to be ‘interested’ in the role at Selhurst Park, viewing it as a potential route back into top-flight management.
However, while Dyche is reportedly open to discussions, sources indicate he is not currently leading the race, as Palace weigh multiple options before making a final decision.
Sean Dyche has plenty of experience in the Premier League
Dyche has been out of work since his departure from Nottingham Forest earlier this season.
Previously known for his disciplined, defensively organised approach at Burnley and Everton, Dyche has built a reputation for stabilising clubs in challenging circumstances.
At 54, he brings considerable Premier League experience, a factor that could appeal to Crystal Palace as they assess their next long-term direction.
Dyche is said to view the Palace project as an attractive opportunity, particularly given the club’s established Premier League status and competitive squad core.
Crystal Palace have identified their top manager target
Sean Dyche at Nottingham Forest (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Palace are keeping their options open. Oliver Glasner is expected to see out the remainder of his contract through the summer, giving the hierarchy time to conduct a thorough evaluation process.
Arsenal are preparing to open formal negotiations with Declan Rice over a new contract, showing the club’s determination to tie down one of the defining figures of Mikel Arteta’s project.
The England international has emerged as a cornerstone of Arsenal’s resurgence, and the hierarchy at the Emirates are eager to reflect his importance with improved long-term terms.
With Andrea Berta reportedly prioritising Rice’s renewal for the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign, discussions are expected to gather pace in the coming months, according to TEAMtalk.
Declan Rice has transformed the Arsenal midfield
Arsenal made Rice their record signing when they secured him from West Ham United in July 2023 for £105 million.
Midfielder is keen to extend his stay in North London
Declan Rice preparing to take a throw-in for Arsenal (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Rice’s current deal runs until June 2028, with weekly wages reportedly around £240,000.
Despite the long-term nature of the contract, Arsenal are keen to act early rather than risk future uncertainty.
Reports suggest Berta has already initiated preliminary contact with Rice’s representatives, reaffirming the club’s intention to open substantive talks in 2026.
Both player and camp are believed to be receptive, with Rice reportedly eager to commit his prime years to Arsenal’s evolving project.
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Among the latest names to feature prominently on their shortlist is Nottingham Forest’s Ivory Coast international Ibrahim Sangaré, according to GiveMeSport.
The 28-year-old has reportedly impressed United’s recruitment team, particularly as the club looks to combine Premier League experience with physical authority in the centre of the park.
Man United are prioritising additions in the midfield
Man United are understood to be targeting two experienced midfield additions this summer.
Recent transfer successes involving players already acclimatised to the Premier League, such as Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, have reinforced the value of domestic experience.
Alongside Sangaré, United are monitoring a range of options, including Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Carlos Baleba (Brighton), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace), Sandro Tonali (Newcastle United) and Angelo Stiller (VfB Stuttgart).
However, Sangaré offers a distinct profile compared to those more progressive or technically inclined midfielders.
Jamie Carragher believes Manchester United are “virtually a guarantee” to qualify for the Champions League, while former Red Devils defender Gary Neville has backed them to finish third. United moved back into fourth, and three points behind Aston Villa in third, in the Premier League after they defeated Everton 1-0 at Hill Dickinson Stadium on […]
David Moyes admitted Everton must improve at Hill Dickinson Stadium if they are to realise their goals, following Monday’s 1-0 defeat to Manchester United. Everton produced a solid display at home to Michael Carrick’s in-form side, but a superb counter-attacking goal from Benjamin Sesko in the 71st minute proved decisive. The Toffees flung 10 corners […]
Michael Carrick predicted Benjamin Sesko will be a key player at Manchester United for years to come after the striker reprised his super-sub role against Everton. Having come off the bench to score result-altering goals against Fulham and West Ham in recent weeks, Sesko made another telling contribution as a substitute on Monday. He capped […]
Manchester United moved back into the top four of the Premier League as Benjamin Sesko’s goal snatched a 1-0 win at Everton. Sesko has been United’s super-sub under Michael Carrick so far, and the striker played the role yet again as he climbed off the bench to claim all three points at Hill Dickinson Stadium. […]
Manchester United are reportedly exploring the possibility of bringing Scott McTominay back to Old Trafford in a move, according to Fichajes.
Two years after selling the Scotland international to Napoli for £25.4 million, United are said to be considering a £70 million bid as they reassess their midfield structure.
While the speculation has gathered pace, McTominay himself has publicly downplayed any immediate prospect of a return to England.
Scott McTominay has experienced a revival in Serie A
Napoli have witnessed a dramatic evolution in McTominay’s game since his arrival in Serie A.
Under Antonio Conte’s guidance, the 29-year-old has transformed from a largely functional midfield enforcer into a more complete, progressive presence.
His influence has continued into the current season, with 10 goals and three assists across all competitions.
Beyond statistics, Conte has refined his buildup play and positional intelligence, enabling him to dictate tempo rather than merely disrupt opposition attacks.
Scott McTominay in action for Napoli (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Man United are entering a period of midfield reconstruction. Casemiro’s anticipated departure and inconsistent performances from Manuel Ugarte have intensified the search for reliability and leadership in central areas.
Alongside McTominay, United are also monitoring younger profiles such as Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba and Elliot Anderson.
In an interview with Corriere dello Sport, McTominay stated he is “extremely happy” in Italy and sees himself at Napoli “for a long time.”
His agent has reportedly not engaged in discussions regarding a transfer, suggesting no immediate negotiations are underway.
Newcastle United are reportedly exploring a summer move for Wolverhampton Wanderers left-back Hugo Bueno as they assess defensive reinforcements ahead of next season, according to Football Insider.
With concerns over squad depth and durability on the left side of defense, the Magpies are believed to be evaluating options that combine Premier League experience with long-term upside.
Wolves’ worrying league position has given the Magpies advantage to sign Bueno.
Newcastle have relied heavily on Lewis Hall in recent campaigns, but recurring fitness issues have prompted internal discussions about strengthening that position.
While Hall remains highly regarded, the club are conscious of the physical demands of competing domestically and in Europe.
There is also awareness that Hall has attracted external interest, including reported monitoring from Manchester United.
Although no immediate departure appears imminent, the Magpies are planning proactively.
Hugo Bueno of Wolves in action (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Bueno has quietly built a strong Premier League résumé. After gaining valuable experience during a loan spell at Feyenoord in the 2024/25 campaign, he returned to establish himself as a regular under manager Rob Edwards.
With 67 Premier League appearances to his name, Bueno offers proven adaptation to the league’s tempo and physical intensity.
He is comfortable advancing into wide areas and contributing in the final third.
Earlier this month, he showcased that ability with a memorable strike that helped Wolves secure a 2-2 comeback draw against title contenders Arsenal.
Having started 19 league matches and accumulated more than 1,700 minutes this season, Bueno has demonstrated durability, an attribute Newcastle value highly given recent injury concerns.
Manchester United are adopting a measured strategy regarding Patrick Dorgu’s return from injury, with the club determined not to jeopardise the long-term development of one of their most highly rated young players.
Rather than accelerating his comeback, United are prioritising a careful rehabilitation process, targeting an early April return, according to a source on X.
The decision shows both medical prudence and the club’s commitment to safeguarding elite talent during critical growth phases.
Man United want to protect their key player
Man United view Dorgu as one of the standout prospects within their current squad.
His athleticism, versatility and composure in possession have drawn praise internally, with coaching staff reportedly convinced of his long-term importance to the team’s evolution.
Dorgu was injured during the closing stages (around the 81st minute) of Man United’s 3-2 Premier League victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. He had to be substituted just minutes after scoring a spectacular long-range goal.
The club’s medical department is said to be unwilling to risk aggravation by rushing him back prematurely.
In recent seasons, United have faced criticism over injury management, making this cautious approach particularly notable.
Dorgu has been important for the Red Devils under Carrick
Patrick Dorgu in action for Man United against Newcastle (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Dorgu suffered a hamstring injury. While interim manager Michael Carrick initially hoped it was just a severe cramp, subsequent medical scans confirmed a more significant hamstring issue.
Dorgu’s role within the squad has grown steadily. Whether deployed defensively or in more advanced positions, he has contributed impressively to the team’s cause recently.
United’s current campaign has already been disrupted by injuries in key areas, showing the importance of maintaining squad depth without compromising long-term assets.
By resisting the temptation to fast-track his recovery, the club are reinforcing their belief in his future significance.
Arne Slot is scheduled to hold a significant end-of-season review with Liverpool officials on Monday, 25 May, a meeting that could shape the immediate future of the club’s managerial position.
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Should Liverpool reach the Champions League final, the review would reportedly be postponed until Tuesday, 2 June, ensuring the focus remains firmly on European competition before strategic discussions take place.
Liverpool are set to hold Slot to high standards
Liverpool entered the season as the favourites to win the Premier League title.
However, they have struggling massively, their new signings have failed to settle at the club and Slot has found it difficult to make the right tactical decisions.
There is a high possibility that the Merseyside club could end the season without a trophy and considering the amount of money they invested in the squad last summer, it would be a huge failure from the manager and the players.
While Champions League qualification would represent a tangible achievement, Liverpool’s hierarchy traditionally evaluates performance through silverware.
Slot’s campaign has included moments of promise but also inconsistency.
Club officials to hold Slot accountable for poor season
Arne Slot has struggled at Liverpool this season (Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images)
End-of-season evaluations are common practice at elite clubs.
However, the fact that Slot’s position remains under scrutiny, even in a scenario where Champions League football is secured, shows the club’s demand for progression rather than mere qualification.
Qualification for Europe’s elite competition may strengthen Slot’s case, but at Anfield, ambition extends beyond participation.
Newcastle United are reportedly unwilling to entertain offers for striker Nick Woltemade this summer unless the player formally requests a transfer, according to Football Insider.
Despite recent reports suggesting the German forward is unsettled on Tyneside, the club’s official stance remains clear, Woltemade is part of their long-term plans.
After investing significantly to bring him to St James’ Park, Newcastle have little appetite for a swift departure, particularly after just one season in black and white.
Nick Woltemade is currently struggling at Newcastle United
The Magpies signed Woltemade with the expectation that his physical presence and technical ability would strengthen their attacking depth.
Standing out for his height and link-up play, the 24-year-old was viewed as a forward capable of offering something different in Eddie Howe’s system.
His overall numbers, seven goals in 24 Premier League appearances, suggest flashes of promise.
However, his recent dip in form has been more concerning. With just one goal in his last 16 outings across all competitions, questions have surfaced about confidence and adaptation to the Premier League’s intensity.
The Magpies, though, are said to view this as part of a natural adjustment period rather than a decisive verdict on his long-term potential.
Aston Villa have no intention of parting ways with Amadou Onana this summer, despite renewed interest from Manchester United, according to Football Insider.
The Belgian midfielder remains a central figure in Unai Emery’s long-term project at Villa Park, and the club are determined to resist any approaches as they continue to build toward sustained domestic and European competitiveness.
Aston Villa invested heavily to secure Onana from Everton, viewing him as a cornerstone of their evolving midfield.
At 24, he combines physical presence with maturity, offering balance in both defensive transitions and build-up play.
Emery reportedly sees the Belgian international as entering his prime and believes further development is likely within the club’s competitive framework.
Man United are planning a summer midfield overhaul
Amadou Onana of Aston Villa (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)
United are preparing for significant changes in midfield. With departures and inconsistent performances prompting reassessment, the recruitment team are evaluating several options, including Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson.
Onana’s Premier League experience and physical profile make him an attractive candidate.
United have tracked him previously, and their need for a commanding midfield presence could prompt a renewed approach.
However, the presence of multiple alternatives on United’s shortlist strengthens Villa’s position.
With demand spread across several targets, Aston Villa are under no immediate pressure to negotiate.
Former Barcelona president Joan Laporta revealed that Lamine Yamal was targeted by PSG with a record-breaking bid in order to replace Kylian Mbappe.
Lamine Yamal has taken the soccer world by surprise, emerging as one of the sport’s brightest young stars at just 18 years old, but his future could have been very different. As revealed by former FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta, Paris Saint-Germain targeted the Spanish wonderkid with a record-breaking bid to replace Kylian Mbappé.
Back in 2024, PSG were dealing with a complicated situation involving Mbappé, who decided to leave on a free transfer after refusing to renew his contract. Following his move to Real Madrid, and without the burden of the astronomical salaries once paid to Neymar, Lionel Messi, and Mbappé, the Parisian side turned its attention to one of the most exciting talents on the market.
At the presentation of his book “Así salvamos al Barça” on Monday, Laporta made a stunning revelation: “When PSG offered us €250 million for Lamine Yamal and we rejected it, he was 17 years old; I remember some people thought we were crazy.“
Currently campaigning for reelection at Barcelona, Laporta added that despite the club’s difficult financial situation at the time, his priority was always to secure Yamal’s future at the club. “For us, he’s always been untouchable,” he added.
Lamine Yamal of Spain and FC Barcelona and Joan Laporta.
PSG rank as the club responsible for the two most expensive signings in soccer history: Neymar’s €222 million transfer from Barcelona and Mbappé’s €180 million move from AS Monaco. Had Yamal’s transfer been completed, the Spaniard would have become both the youngest and most expensive player in the sport’s history.
Back in November 2024, Laporta adviser Enric Masip, speaking to El Cafelito on La Sexta, revealed that the club had received a massive offer for Yamal and hinted at the bidder:: “The president (Laporta) already said he received a €250 million offer that he rejected — that he never even considered it. When you have money and can afford it, you can set your sights on trying to sign anyone,” he concluded, before Laporta himself now confirmed PSG were the club.
Lamine Yamal’s evolution since then
Taking into account the timelines provided by Laporta, Yamal’s offer most likely arrived shortly after he turned 17, in the middle of the 2024 EURO, a tournament in which he would become one of Spain’s breakout stars en route to the title. PSG failed to land him, and since then the youngster has continued proving Laporta right.
In the 2024-25 season, Yamal secured his place in Barcelona’s first team under coach Hansi Flick, winning the Spanish Super Cup, Copa del Rey, and La Liga. After recently signing a contract extension through June 2031, the now-18-year-old’s current Transfermarkt valuation has climbed to €200 million, tying him at the top alongside Mbappé and Erling Haaland.
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona and Kylian Mbappe of PSG.
Inter Milan are tracking Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konaté as uncertainty continues to surround his contract situation at Anfield, according to L’Interista.
With the French defender approaching the end of his current deal and no agreement yet reached over an extension, Europe’s elite are beginning to position themselves for a potential opportunity.
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For Inter, strengthening the defensive line remains a priority heading into the summer window, and Konaté’s profile fits their ambitions.
Liverpool are under a defensive dilemma
Liverpool have relied heavily on Konaté’s physical presence alongside Virgil van Dijk in recent seasons.
The 26-year-old has developed into one of the Premier League’s most imposing defenders, combining aerial dominance with recovery speed and improved composure in possession.
Ibrahima Konate in action for Liverpool (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Inter Milan are understood to be closely monitoring developments.
The Nerazzurri, who are leading the Serie A standings right now, are planning for defensive reinforcements as they aim to maintain competitiveness in Serie A and Europe.
Signing a player of his calibre on a free transfer would represent significant value.
Interest is not limited to Italy. Real Madrid have previously been linked, and other major clubs are likely to assess the situation carefully.
Andrea Cambiaso has quickly evolved into one of the most coveted full-backs in European football.
The Juventus defender’s adaptability, technical quality and tactical intelligence have elevated his standing, placing him firmly on the radar of elite clubs across the continent.
Sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffsidethat clubs like Liverpool, Manchester City and Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on Juventus full-back Cambiaso.
Capable of playing on either flank and even stepping into midfield roles when required, Cambiaso represents the archetype of the modern “system player”, versatile, disciplined and comfortable in possession.
Juventus have made it clear that Cambiaso is not actively for sale. Internally, he is viewed as a long-term pillar of the squad and even a potential future captain.
His current contract runs until 2029, and his reported annual salary of around €2.4 million places him comfortably within the club’s wage structure.
However, Juventus’ ambition to reinforce their attacking department, potentially with a marquee striker, introduces a strategic dilemma.
Reports indicate that offers near €50 million were rejected in January. Should negotiations reopen in the summer, Juventus are expected to demand between €60–70 million before engaging seriously.
Man City have been consistently linked, as Pep Guardiola values defenders who can invert into midfield and contribute to build-up play. Cambiaso’s intelligence and composure align with that tactical model.
Real Madrid are also monitoring the situation, viewing his flexibility as a solution for defensive rotation and long-term succession planning.
If Juventus secure financial stability and remain competitive in the Champions League, Cambiaso is likely to stay and potentially extend his deal.
However, should an offer approach €60 million, they may have no other option but to accept it.
As the Premier League clash between Nottingham Forest and Liverpool on Sunday approached its end without any goals, Alexis Mac Allister thought he had scored an 89th-minute winner, only to see it disallowed by VAR for handball. However, the Argentinian midfielder was on-hand again in the 97th minute to tap home from close range, and […]
The clash between Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami and Son Heung-min’s LAFC has set new attendance records in a historic opening weekend in Major League Soccer history.
The clash between Lionel Messi and Son Heung‑min drew massive fan interest to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum for one of the most anticipated matchups in Major League Soccer. While LAFC cruised to a dominant 3-0 win over Inter Miami, both the Argentine and South Korean stars helped make history by contributing to a record-setting crowd during a landmark opening weekend for the league.
With Son’s arrival in the league in the summer of 2025, a matchup against Messi always felt inevitable. When the MLS released the 2026 schedule, it featured Inter Miami traveling to face LAFC, who also opted to move the game from their usual home at BMO Stadium for the first time in club history.
Using the Coliseum as the venue, the matchup between Messi’s Inter Miami and Son’s LAFC drew a sellout crowd of 75,673 fans. In addition to ranking among the largest crowds in league history, the match set the record for the highest attendance ever for an MLS season opener.
The records didn’t stop there. According to league figures, Matchday 1 of the 2026 season drew a combined attendance of 387,271 fans across all 15 games. With Messi and Son headlining the slate, it marked not only the most-attended opening weekend in MLS history, but also the highest total attendance for any single match weekend the league has ever staged.
Fans of Los Angeles FC cheer during the MLS match against Inter Miami CF at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
As more global stars arrive, fan interest in soccer across the United States continues to grow with the 2026 World Cup approaching. In fact, the total represents a 5% increase over last year’s opening weekend and a 17% jump compared to the 2025 regular-season average.
Messi and Son fall just short of all-time MLS mark
When the league opener between Inter Miami and LAFC was scheduled, the West Coast club made the bold decision to stage the match at the Coliseum, a venue that has rarely hosted soccer. The 75,673 fans in attendance witnessed multiple attendance milestones, though the crowd ultimately fell short of the league’s all-time single-game record.
That mark still belongs to a 2023 meeting between LA Galaxy and LAFC. Played at the Rose Bowl, that Fourth of July clash in Pasadena drew 82,110 spectators, leaving this latest star-studded showdown nearly 7,000 fans shy of the top spot.
Son Heung-min (L) #7 of the Los Angeles FC and Lionel Messi (R) #10 of Inter Miami.
After pilot tests, FIFA could introduce new rules to directly address time-wasting at the 2026 World Cup.
FIFA have implemented several rule changes in soccer in recent years to prevent players and teams from wasting time and, consequently, increase effective playing time over the 90 minutes of a match. In this case, the governing body presided over by Gianni Infantino is looking to introduce yet another rule change for the 2026 World Cup following a series of pilot tests.
One of the most common “techniques” used to keep the clock running is for players, most often from the winning team, to go to ground and request medical assistance. That lost time not only affects the trailing side, but also slows the pace of the match and gives coaches additional opportunities to deliver instructions to their players, a situation in which the losing team is at a clear disadvantage.
As reported by BBC Sport, FIFA have proposed that players who receive treatment for an injury be required to stay off the field for one minute. Versions of this rule have been applied differently across several leagues, but the length of time a player must remain off varies depending on the competition, and now the governing body is eager to standardize the criteria.
In the case of the Premier League, players who require medical attention must leave the pitch and remain on the sideline for 30 seconds, a rule adopted for the 2023-24 season. In Major League Soccer, the approach is similar, but the rule is triggered if a player stays on the ground for more than 15 seconds and the physio is called onto the field.
Bruno Guimaraes of Newcastle United walks off the pitch with a medical staff member.
Apart from the green card that coaches could use to request a VAR review, Infantino‘s FIFA have conducted several tests during the Arab Cup regarding players receiving medical treatment. Backed by FIFA referees chief Pierluigi Collina, players were required to stay outside the field for two minutes, a considerable amount of time.
Changes could be applied first at the 2026 World Cup
Generally, rules approved by IFAB take effect at the start of the next season, meaning no changes would be implemented during the 2025-26 campaign, specifically before July 1. However, with competitions concluding earlier because of the 2026 World Cup, FIFA are eager to apply these changes and debut them at the upcoming tournament to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA and FIFA World Cup Trophy.
After their last crushing 4-0 win, Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr made history by equaling a club's defensive record in the Saudi Pro League.
Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to Al Nassr in outstanding form, helping lift the team back to the top after a shaky start to 2026. Following a dominant 4–0 win over Al Hamza, the club showcased not only attacking firepower but also impressive defensive solidity, matching a long-standing team record in the Saudi Pro League.
In Saturday’s match, Ronaldo added to his legacy by scoring first in the 14th minute from a tight angle and again in the 79th to complete his brace (both with his left foot) bringing his career total to 964 goals. At the other end, Al Nassr preserved another clean sheet, a result that allowed the club to tie a notable defensive milestone.
With goalkeeper Bento recording the shutout, Al Nassr now have six consecutive clean sheets in league play. That matches the club record in the competition, previously set over the same number of matches between October 2014 and February 2015.
The run also coincides with Al Nassr’s strong form, as they are currently riding an eight-game winning streak in league action, though not all of those victories were shutouts. The defensive stretch began on Jan. 26 against Al Taawoun, and since then neither Al Kholood, Al Riyadh, Al Ittihad, Al Fateh nor Al Hazm have managed to find the net.
Al Nassr coach Jorge Jesus Al Nassr FC players celebrate the win against Al Ittihad with the fans.
Simakan’s return a major boost for Al Nassr’s back line
After recording the best start in Saudi Pro League history with 10 straight wins, Al Nassr struggled to regain momentum following the break for the Arab Cup. Between Matchdays 12 and 15, Ronaldo’s side posted one draw and three consecutive losses, a major setback that cost them ground in the title race.
Mohamed Simakan missed three of those four matches with a hamstring muscle tear, a significant absence considering Al Nassr had conceded only five goals in the first nine games he played. Since returning to fitness and forming a partnership with former FC Barcelona Íñigo Martínez, the center-back duo has become a cornerstone of one of the club’s strongest defensive stretches.
Ronaldo and a chance to break another record
Al Nassr currently sit second after Al Ahli moved above them by one point with an extra match played. In their next outing, Ronaldo will have an opportunity not only to reclaim first place but also to set a new club record for consecutive clean sheets.
On Wednesday, February 25, Al Nassr will visit Al Namja SC, who sit bottom of the Saudi Pro League standings. The hosts rank among the league’s lowest-scoring teams with 21 goals and have conceded 46, making the matchup a prime opportunity for Ronaldo to add to his scoring tally, and for Al Nassr to secure another shutout and stand alone in the record books.
With an Inter Miami rival reportedly nearing his signing, World Cup champions Antoine Griezmann and Lionel Messi could face each other in the 2026 MLS.
Lionel Messi’s arrival to Major League Soccer in 2023 prompted a significant boost not only for Inter Miami CF but also for the league itself, which has since drawn increased attention from European stars. Now Antoine Griezmann appears poised to follow that trend, as the World Cup winner is reportedly nearing a move to one of Miami’s rivals.
As reported by Tom Bogert of The Athletic, Orlando City SC are in advanced talks to sign Griezmann. Discussions, primarily held with Atlético Madrid, have progressed toward a potential transfer fee for the French star, who is expected to sign a three-year deal with the Eastern Conference side.
Griezmann, currently 34, has long been a target for MLS clubs, including Inter Miami, who are now unable to sign him because all three Designated Player slots are filled by Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, and new addition Germán Berterame. In Orlando City’s case, Martín Ojeda and Marco Pašalić occupy two DP spots, with Griezmann lined up to take the remaining one.
Compared to other MLS teams that have shown interest, Orlando appear to hold the edge in several areas. First, sporting director and general manager Ricardo Moreira has been working extensively on the deal, traveling to Spain multiple times, and with MLS discovery rights on the Frenchman, the club would have priority to secure his signature.
Antoine Griezmann of Atletico de Madrid.
When could Messi and Griezmann face each other?
One key factor is timing. According to The Athletic, Orlando City are pushing to finalize the signing before March 26, when the MLS primary transfer window closes. Despite sitting outside the top spots in La Liga, Atlético Madrid are on a strong run in the Copa del Rey semifinals after defeating FC Barcelona 4-0 in the first leg, and they are also competing in the Champions League playoffs against Club Brugge.
If the transfer is completed within that window, Messi and Griezmann could meet in the 2026 MLS season. The first Florida derby is scheduled for this weekend at Exploria Stadium, while the second matchup between Inter Miami and Orlando City is set for May 2 at Miami Freedom Park, a potential stage for the Argentine and French stars to face off.
Messi has already squared off against some of the league’s biggest names, including Thomas Müller with the Vancouver Whitecaps FC in MLS Cup play, and Son Heung‑min with Los Angeles FC in the season opener, a match that set attendance records. If Griezmann arrives, it would create another marquee showdown between two World Cup-winning superstars whose quality remains unquestioned.
Another World Cup champion could join MLS
Griezmann remains an important figure in Atlético Madrid’s squad, meaning a move to Orlando City would represent a major boost for the Florida club, potentially delivering immediate results. His résumé would also add him to a distinguished list of players who have both played in MLS and lifted the World Cup.
Antoine Griezmann of France kisses the World Cup trophy.
Ordered by nationality, some of the stars who have spent part of their careers in MLS and won the sport’s most prestigious trophy include:
Argentina: Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), Rodrigo De Paul (Inter Miami), and Thiago Almada (first to win it while playing in MLS with Atlanta United FC)..
Viktor Gyokeres believes a team meeting in which Arsenal’s players exchanged frank words with one another was a key factor in Sunday’s 4-1 dismantling of Tottenham. After letting a 2-0 lead slip away in a damaging draw with the Premier League’s bottom club Wolves, Arsenal looked to be feeling the heat in the title race. […]
While the back pages are dominated by Benjamin Sesko’s latest heroics off the bench, Manchester United’s 1-0 victory over Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium owed just as much to the tireless, all-action display of Matheus Cunha.
The Slovenian striker may have provided the “ruthless finish” in the 71st minute to secure the three points, but it was Cunha’s tactical discipline and a singular moment of vision that laid the foundation for Michael Carrick’s latest triumph.
(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Matheus Cunha puts in incredible performance vs Evertton
Starting on the left flank, Cunha produced what many are calling his most complete performance in a United shirt.
While often lauded for his flair, it was his grit that stood out on Monday night.
According to Statman Dave, Cunha made a staggering 11 defensive contributions across the 94 minutes, including a goal-saving block on James Garner just seconds before United’s winning counter-attack.
Matheus Cunha made 11 defensive contributions in the 94 minutes he played vs. Everton.
However, his most decisive contribution was offensive. Deep inside his own half, Cunha intercepted a loose ball and threaded a brilliant crossfield pass to release Bryan Mbeumo.
Mbeumo’s subsequent square ball found Sesko, who hammered home his third decisive goal in four matches.
Benjamin Sesko scores after coming on as a sub once again to give Manchester United the lead ? pic.twitter.com/rXNYX5sZul
Crystal Palace are reportedly eyeing a move for Ousmane Diomande this summer as they revive their interest in the Sporting CP defender.
According to a report from Portuguese outlet Record (via Sport Witness), the Eagles have identified the 22-year-old as the primary target to anchor their defense for the 2026-27 campaign.
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Crystal Palace ready to make big move for Ousmane Diomande
(Photo by Carlos Silva/Icon Sport via Getty Images)
The urgency behind the pursuit stems from the recent departure of former captain Marc Guehi, who completed a high-profile move to Manchester City in the January window for approximately £20 million.
Guehi’s exit left a significant void in Oliver Glasner’s backline, resulting in the manager publicly expressing his frustration towards the club’s hierarchy.
Diomande, who is a rapid defender and physically imposing center-back, is viewed as the ideal tactical successor.
Despite signing a contract extension in Lisbon just last month, tying him to Sporting until 2030, Record suggests the renewal was a strategic move to protect his market value rather than a guarantee of his stay.
While his release clause remains fixed at €80 million (£69m), Sporting’s board reportedly recognises the need to generate transfer income this summer to fund infrastructure projects, potentially opening the door for negotiations below that figure.
Crystal Palace face strong competition from Premier League rivals
Palace will not have a clear run at the defender. Newcastle United have reportedly stepped up their scouting presence in Portugal, undeterred by the thigh injury that sidelined Diomande for the early part of this season.
Palace currently sit 13th in the Premier League and look set to miss out on European qualification, a setback that could prove decisive in their pursuit of reinforcements.
That uncertainty may ultimately influence Diomande’s decision over whether to join the Eagles.
Gianluca Prestianni has been handed a one-game provisional suspension by UEFA according to Sky Sports.
The ruling ensures the Argentine winger will miss Wednesday’s critical second-leg clash against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.
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The decision comes as a direct consequence of an ongoing investigation into allegations of racist abuse directed at Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. during the first leg in Lisbon.
Gianluca Prestianni handed provisional ban
(Photo by Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images)
The suspension stems from the heated scenes at the Estádio da Luz last Tuesday. Following Vinicius’ second-half winner, the game was halted for nearly ten minutes after the Brazilian reported being called a “monkey” by Prestianni.
While the 20-year-old covered his mouth with his shirt during the exchange, the allegation was supported by Kylian Mbappé, who reportedly told officials he heard the slur repeated five times.
UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body confirmed the ban on Monday, stating it was issued “without prejudice” to any final ruling.
If found guilty at the conclusion of the full investigation, Prestianni could face a minimum 10-game suspension.
Benfica have announced they will appeal the provisional measure, though they admitted it is unlikely to be processed in time for Wednesday’s kickoff.
Jose Mourinho to skip media duty amid “gaslighting” backlash
Adding to the tension, Sky Sports reports that Benfica head coach Jose Mourinho has decided to exercise his right to skip all media duties, both pre-match and post-match, for the trip to Madrid.
The “Special One” drew the ire of anti-racism group Kick It Out, who accused him of “gaslighting” after he suggested the Brazilian’s goal celebration incited the home crowd and players.
“A stadium where Vinícius plays, something happens, always,” Mourinho told Amazon Prime, a comment that sparked a fierce rebuttal from Bayern Munich boss Vincent Kompany, who labeled the remarks a “huge mistake.”
By avoiding the cameras this week, Mourinho seems intent on shielding himself from the mounting pressure, leaving a depleted and distracted Benfica to face the daunting task of overturning a 1-0 deficit in the Spanish capital.
Tottenham Hotspur’s star defender Micky van de Ven delivered a stinging reality check to his teammates before the humiliating 4-1 North London Derby defeat.
In a season that has spiraled into a nightmare, the Dutchman labeled the club’s current league position as “unacceptable” and named five key figures, including himself, who must shoulder the burden of saving Spurs from the drop.
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With the club sitting in 16th place and just two points above the relegation zone, the mood in the dressing room is reportedly at an all-time low.
Micky van de Ven wants Tottenham teammates to step up
(Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images)
Speaking to Sky Sports before the match against Arsenal, the Dutchman pointedly noted that the club’s younger players cannot be expected to carry the weight of a relegation battle.
Instead, he called out a core group of five experienced players, himself, the suspended Cristian Romero, goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, midfield anchor Joao Palhinha, and striker Dominic Solanke to lead by example.
He said: “If you are a club like Tottenham Hotspur, you have this quality of place (training ground), and you are, what I say, as big as the most, it’s unacceptable that you’re standing at this place on the table, and the results need to be way, way better.
“Of course, we still have some quality players left. We have a really talented squad and some top players, but we also miss some key players for us, and it’s really important for the players who are fit right now to step up.
“You have some young players, obviously, in the group, and you can’t really ask them to be the guys that need to push us forward. So, then, normally, I have Cuti next to me, who is now unfortunately suspended, but you have [Guglielmo] Vic behind me, who has a lot of experience, Joao Palhinha, in the midfield, who has a lot of experience, [Dominic] Solanke, who has a lot of experience.”
Van de Ven accused of ignoring Igor Tudor’s orders vs Arsenal
While Van de Ven’s words were aimed at leadership, his own actions on the pitch have drawn heavy criticism.
Footage from the Arsenal defeat showed the defender completely ignoring tactical instructions from new interim boss Igor Tudor.
As Tudor frantically signaled for the line to push higher, Van de Ven remained static, a display of insubordination that mirrored a similar incident with former manager Thomas Frank earlier this season.
This public friction, combined with Spurs’ plummeting form, has pushed Van de Ven toward the exit door.
If Van de Ven’s call to arms doesn’t spark an immediate reaction against Fulham next Sunday, he may well be leading his teammates through their final few months in a Tottenham shirt before a massive summer exodus.
The AC Milan winger may not appear the obvious successor at first glance, but the parallels between his career and Salah’s own redemption arc are striking.
Pulisic already shares a striking career parallel with Mohamed Salah
(Photo by Claudio Villa/AC Milan via Getty Images)
Pulisic’s journey mirrors Salah’s in a way that few Liverpool transfer targets can match.
Both players arrived at Chelsea as highly rated young talents, burdened by expectation and promise.
Yet neither truly flourished at Stamford Bridge. Salah departed England early in his career, rebuilding his reputation in Serie A before earning his move to Liverpool.
Similarly, Pulisic has rediscovered himself at AC Milan.
Since moving to San Siro, the USA international has evolved into a decisive, confident attacking force. He has registered 10 goals in all competitions this season, bringing his total tally for the Italian giants to 42 goals and 25 assists in 123 appearances.
More importantly, his performances suggest maturity and composure in the final third, qualities that defined Salah’s transformation in Italy before his record-breaking return to the Premier League.
If Liverpool were to sign Christian Pulisic, they would not simply be replacing Salah; they would be betting on history repeating itself.
Pulisic’s stats compared to Salah at same age
The argument for Pulisic becomes even more compelling when comparing the two at the same age.
Pulisic is currently 27 years old, the exact age Mohamed Salah was during his iconic 2019-20 season when he led Liverpool to their first Premier League title.
(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
At 27, Salah had already established himself as a world-class finisher, but Pulisic’s current trajectory is similar.
While Pulisic may not yet have the same trophy cabinet or the incredible goal contribution numbers, his statistical efficiency at age 27 suggests he is entering his “golden era” just as Salah did.
The AC Milan star is currently averaging a goal contribution every 96 minutes, a rate comparable to Salah during his most productive years at Anfield.
For Liverpool’s recruitment team, this will be critical.
Given Liverpool’s need for immediate impact should Salah depart, Pulisic’s blend of Premier League experience, Serie A resurgence, and peak-age production makes him a compelling candidate.
Replacing Mohamed Salah is close to impossible. But if Liverpool are seeking a player who understands redemption, pressure, and elite expectations, Christian Pulisic may represent the most intriguing like-for-like evolution available on the market.
Speaking to OLBG (quotes via The Mirror), Heskey named three players who could replace Salah, should the legendary number eleven depart Anfield this summer.
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Heskey’s Mohamed Salah replacement shortlist: Kvaratskhelia, Bowen, and Pulisic
(Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Heskey was quick to admit that there will no direct replacement for Salah, but he highlighted Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as his primary target.
The Georgian international, currently starring for PSG after a high-profile move from Napoli, is Heskey’s “go-to” choice for his flair and game-changing ability.
He said: “We’re talking about replacing Mohamed Salah and I think as fans you’ve got to look at something different because you can’t replace Mo Salah. I remember one season I was speaking to someone who said Mo’s had a bad season. He’d scored 25 goals! I’d love to have had that bad of a season.
“We’re talking about someone scoring 20 plus, nearly 30 goals a season for 10 years. I don’t think you can replace Mo Salah but I do like the lad from PSG, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. He would be my go-to.”
(Photo by Ryan Crockett/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images)
However, the former England international also looked closer to home, suggesting West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen as a tactical alternative.
“Would Jarrod Bowen be a downgrade from Mohamed Salah? I think most players are a downgrade… but Bowen is a different type of player and he would probably help the formation because he’s going to work a little bit harder than Mo,” Heskey added
The last name on the list was former Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic. Now revitalised in Italy, Pulisic’s directness reminds Heskey of Salah’s own career path.
He suggested that, much like Salah flourished after leaving Chelsea for Serie A and returning to England, Pulisic could return to the Premier League to prove his critics wrong.
He said: “I actually quite like Christian Pulisic. He is very direct. He probably didn’t get as many goals as I would have liked him to get at Chelsea but I thought he gave defences problems.
“Obviously after a good World Cup, being at home with the pressure on him, he is definitely someone who could offer something different to Mohamed Salah or even Cody Gakpo right now.
“Mo left Chelsea to go to Italy and look at what he’s done for Liverpool. I think it’d be great to see someone like Pulisic come back into the Premier League in the same way. I’m guessing he would love to show that his time at Chelsea was just a little blip. He was only a young lad when he came over.”
Player
Club
Goals
Assists
G+A
Minutes Played
Mohamed Salah
Liverpool
4
6
10
1,614
Christian Pulisic
AC Milan
8
2
10
962
Jarrod Bowen
West Ham
8
3
11
2,328
K. Kvaratskhelia
PSG
4
3
7
953
Replacing Salah’s outrageous numbers will be impossible
Salah’s consistency is virtually peerless. Replacing a player who has averaged nearly 30 goals a season for a decade is nearly impossible.
Since singing for Liverpool, Salah has broken almost every record, consistently performing season after season for 9 years.
He has recorded double digits for goals and assists every single season, accumulating 252 goals and 121 assists in 429 games across all competitions.
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Juventus are reportedly prioritising a move for Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario as they prepare for a potential change between the posts.
According to La Gazetta dello Sport in Italy, the Bianconeri view the 29-year-old as the ideal candidate to step in should Michele Di Gregorio depart, with discussions already taking place behind the scenes.
However, the Turin giants are not alone in their pursuit. Inter Milan are also monitoring the situation, potentially setting up a domestic battle for one of Serie A’s most highly regarded goalkeepers.
Vicario fits the criteria for Italian giants Juventus
Juventus are seeking a goalkeeper who combines reliability with experience at the highest level.
Vicario, currently at Tottenham, has enhanced his reputation since moving to England, earning praise for his reflexes, distribution and command of the penalty area.
Valued between €25 million and €30 million, Vicario represents a financially viable option for Juventus, especially given his reported annual salary of €4.5 million, a figure that matches with the club’s current wage structure.
His shot-stopping consistency and comfort playing out from the back make him an attractive modern goalkeeper, capable of adapting to the tactical demands of Serie A.
Questions are beginning to surface over Ben White’s long-term role at Arsenal, with TEAMtalk suggesting the club are actively tracking Sporting CP’s highly rated right-back Iván Fresneda.
While White remains an important figure in Mikel Arteta’s setup, Arsenal’s recruitment strategy appears focused on ensuring depth and long-term stability in key defensive areas.
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The situation has become more intriguing with Manchester City and Newcastle United also credited with strong interest in the 21-year-old Spaniard.
Ben White could make way for a new right-back
Arsenal have relied heavily on White’s versatility since his arrival from Brighton.
Originally signed as a centre-back, he has adapted impressively to the right-back role, offering defensive solidity in Arteta’s hybrid system.
However, Arsenal’s ambition to compete consistently for Premier League and Champions League honours requires constant renewal.
White’s form has fluctuated at times this season, and the club are believed to be assessing whether further competition, or eventual succession planning, is necessary.
Ivan Fresneda has impressed top clubs including Arsenal
Ivan Fresneda of Sporting CP (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)
Sporting CP defender Iván Fresneda has developed into one of Europe’s most promising young full-backs.
Technically composed and tactically mature for his age, he combines defensive discipline with the ability to contribute in advanced positions.
Interest in Fresneda is widespread. Manchester City are reportedly admirers, with sporting director Hugo Viana, formerly of Sporting, playing a key role in driving their interest.
Newcastle United are also said to be monitoring the situation as they seek defensive reinforcements.
Fresneda’s profile fits the modern full-back mould, comfortable in possession, tactically adaptable and capable of operating in systems that demand inverted or overlapping roles.
Chelsea could sell Trevoh Chalobah at the end of the season, according to Football Insider. If the Premier League club bring in a new senior centre-back in the summer transfer window, then they could cash in on Chalobah. Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “Things possibly could change if Chelsea were to bring in another centre-back, which […]
Atletico Madrid are determined to keep Julian Alvarez, according to Football Insider. Arsenal and Chelsea are among the clubs that are keen on a deal for the former Manchester City striker in the summer transfer window. Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “PSG have shown a bit of interest (in Alvarez) and there’s been links with Arsenal […]
Manchester United are interested in signing Amadou Onana from Premier League rivals Aston Villa in the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider. However, according to the report, Villa manager Unai Emery is not willing to part company with the defensive midfielder. Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “We know the central midfield position is going to […]
Arsenal will not sell Eberechi Eze in the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider. Eze joined Arsenal from London and Premier League rivals Crystal Palace only in the summer of 2026, and the Gunners have no plans to offload the attacker. According to the report, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has ‘big plans’ for Eze, […]
Newcastle United are not actively looking to sell Nick Woltemade in the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider. However, the Magpies will entertain offers for the Germany international striker should he himself demand a move away from St. James’ Park. Woltemade joined Newcastle from VfB Stuttgart in the summer of 2025. The 24-year-old striker […]
Lucas Bergvall is unlikely to make a move to leave Tottenham Hotspur at the end of the season, according to Football Insider. Chelsea are among the clubs that are keeping an eye on the 20-year-old Sweden international midfielder. Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “Bergvall definitely comes in to that reckoning as one of Tottenham’s best players. […]
Tottenham Hotspur are looking at potential replacements for Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven, according to Football Insider. Both Romero and Van de Ven could leave the North London club at the end of the season, and Spurs are already making contingency plans. Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “Look, if Spurs are out of Europe […]
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While Premier League clubs, most notably Arsenal, are monitoring his situation closely, the Argentine striker is believed to have a clear preference regarding his next destination.
With several European heavyweights assessing attacking reinforcements, Alvarez is high on their radar but the attacker wants to stay in La Liga and join Barcelona.
Arsenal hold genuine interest due to Berta connection
Arsenal are understood to be exploring the possibility of launching a bid.
As per ESPN sources, the Gunners have evaluated Alvarez as a potential solution to strengthen their forward line ahead of another title challenge.
Sporting director Andrea Berta, who previously negotiated Álvarez’s €95 million transfer from Manchester City to Atlético Madrid in August 2024, is familiar with the player’s profile and contractual structure.
That existing relationship could offer Arsenal a strategic advantage if talks were to progress.
Barcelona’s ongoing efforts to reshape their attack and invest in younger, dynamic forwards align with Alvarez’s stage of career.
Staying in La Liga may also appeal to the Argentine international, allowing him to maintain continuity while competing for domestic and European honours.
Liverpool have also been mentioned as potential suitors but just like Arsenal, they are expected to face defeat in the race to sign Alvarez.
Liverpool could face a significant attacking decision this summer, with Football Insider suggesting Cody Gakpo may be allowed to leave if the club secures a high-profile replacement on the left flank.
While the Dutch forward continues to receive backing from head coach Arne Slot, his inconsistent output this season has sparked internal discussions about long-term squad balance.
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As Liverpool evaluate their options for the future, Gakpo’s future has become uncertain due to his poor performances this season.
Cody Gakpo has been inconsistent for Liverpool this season
This season has been challenging for the Dutch attacker. A return of seven goals in 34 appearances has fallen short of expectations for a Liverpool attacker, particularly in a system that relies heavily on wide forwards to contribute decisively in the final third.
Comparisons with former left-sided attackers, including the consistent output once delivered by Luis Díaz, have only intensified scrutiny.
Supporters have grown restless at times, questioning whether Gakpo can consistently deliver at the elite level required for sustained title challenges.
Speculation linking Harry Kane with a potential move to Barcelona has been firmly played down, with Florian Plettenberg indicating that a summer transfer to the Catalan giants is neither planned nor realistic at this stage.
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The England captain has also publicly addressed the reports, reiterating his contentment in Germany and dismissing suggestions of behind-the-scenes contact.
Harry Kane has a clear stance on his future
Kane responded directly to claims that Barcelona presidential candidate Xavier Vilajoana had made contact.
Speaking candidly, Kane said: “I haven’t heard anything about that. My father and brother haven’t told me anything. I’m very happy here.”
The statement leaves little room for ambiguity. Since joining Bayern Munich, Kane has quickly established himself as the focal point of the Bavarian attack.
Beyond the pitch, Kane has spoken positively about the club’s infrastructure, competitive ambition and the opportunity to challenge regularly for major honours, factors that heavily influenced his initial move from Tottenham.
Discussions have already begun regarding a potential renewal that would keep him at the Allianz Arena until 2028 or 2029.
For Bayern, retaining Kane is about more than goals. His leadership qualities and experience in high-pressure matches make him central to the club’s project.
Barcelona have been linked with several high-profile forwards amid questions about the future of Robert Lewandowski.
While transfer rumours are inevitable for players of Kane’s stature, current indications suggest his future remains in Munich.
Manchester City are reportedly preparing a significant summer approach for Newcastle United defender Tino Livramento, with figures in the region of €75 million being mentioned, as per Media Foot.
The 23-year-old has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most promising full-backs, and City are believed to view him as a long-term solution to their evolving defensive structure.
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The reason why Man City are interested in Livramento
Man City have often relied on tactical flexibility at full-back, but this season has exposed the need for greater stability in the position.
Rico Lewis has endured inconsistent form, while Matheus Nunes has been deployed out of position to provide balance on the right.
Livramento offers a more natural solution. Athletic, technically secure and comfortable advancing into attacking spaces, he embodies the modern full-back Guardiola typically favours.
His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively would add balance to City’s system.
Newcastle United are determined to keep their star
Tino Livramento in action for Newcastle United (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Newcastle United regard Livramento as a cornerstone of their long-term project.
Manager Eddie Howe has frequently relied on Kieran Trippier during Livramento’s absence, but the club remain convinced of the younger defender’s ceiling.
Newcastle are reportedly preparing a new contract to reinforce their commitment, signalling reluctance to entertain offers.
From Livramento’s perspective, competing for major honours could be a compelling factor. City’s consistent presence at the pinnacle of domestic and European competition provides an attractive platform.
RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande has quickly become one of the most talked-about young attackers in European football.
At just 19 years old, the Ivory Coast international is enjoying a breakout campaign in the Bundesliga, and his rapid development has inevitably drawn attention from elite clubs.
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Bayern Munich are keen on the Leipzig star, but there are growing claims that Liverpool may already have moved ahead in the race for his signature, according to Bayern Space.
Yan Diomande has been a star in the Bundesliga
RB Leipzig signed Diomande from Spanish side Leganés last summer, viewing him as a long-term investment with immediate upside.
The move has proven inspired. In his first season in Germany, the winger has delivered nine goals and seven assists across all competitions, impressive numbers for a teenager adapting to a new league.
Diomande’s style is built around explosive pace, intelligent movement in wide areas and composure in one-on-one situations.
Leipzig are under no immediate pressure to sell. Diomande is contracted until 2030, and the club are reportedly seeking a fee in the region of £88 million should negotiations materialise.
Andy Robertson’s future at Liverpool is entering a delicate and defining phase, sources close to the agents indsutry have informed CaughtOffside.
With the Scottish captain moving into the final year of his contract, the summer of 2026 looms as a potential turning point in a career that has become synonymous with the club’s modern golden era.
Since arriving at Anfield in 2017, Robertson has played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s resurgence, helping deliver Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup triumphs.
Andy Robertson has been a legendary servant for Liverpool
Liverpool transformed under Jürgen Klopp, and Robertson was central to that evolution.
His relentless energy down the left flank, pinpoint crossing and leadership qualities made him one of Europe’s premier full-backs at his peak.
Arne Slot respects Robertson’s experience, but Liverpool’s long-term planning increasingly leans toward younger options, including highly rated talents such as Milos Kerkez.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has claimed that Eberechi Eze was upset with him due to some of the decisions he has made recently.
The Gunners signed Eze from Crystal Palace in the summer transfer window in a big money move.
He was expected to hit the ground running straight away but the England international has struggled for a large part of the season.
Although he has shown flashes of his brilliance, Eze has failed to find the consistency that he showed at Palace.
In the recent 1-1 draw against Brentford, Arteta decided to take Eze off at halftime and replaced him with Martin Odegaard.
In the 2-2 draw against Wolves, Eze was benched and Arteta believes that his decision did not go down well with the attacking midfielder.
Mikel Arteta was full of praise for Eberechi Eze
Arteta started Eze in the North London derby and Eze showed his quality by scoring two crucial goals for the Gunners.
In his post match press conference, Arteta said, as reported by Metro:
‘He has scored five goals in the last two games against Tottenham, which is extremely difficult to do, but I could see that he wanted to prove something.
‘He was upset, even with me, because I didn’t play him in the other day from the beginning and some of the decisions that I made. And I start to understand how we’re going to get the best out of him now.
‘He had that belief and I’m really happy with him. He’s really trying to mould and adapt into what we want from him.
‘You just have to look at his face and the way he was in the dressing room and with that big smile and his eyes are just expressing everything that you need to.
‘He came here for a reason and we need those moments from these players. I think him and the front players today, I think they’ve done what we expect from them.’
Eberechi Eze of Arsenal celebrates (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Eze scored a hat-trick in the first North London derby of the season and he scored a brace in the second one.
He has shown time and again, even in his spell at Crystal Palace, that he loves playing against Tottenham.
They are his favourite opponents. In the final stages of the Premier League title race, Arteta would be hoping Eze to perform the same way.
The fact that Arteta has considered benching club captain Martin Odegaard for Eze shows that he believes in the player but now it is up to him to repay the faith Arsenal have shown in him.
Eze is not just a goal scorer, he also creates chances for his teammates. In the final third, his presence can be crucial for the Gunners as they chase the Premier League title.
Football pundit Gary Neville praised Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres for his impressive performance against Tottenham.
The Gunners beat their city rivals 4-1 in the North London derby with goals from Eberechi Eze and Gyokeres.
Mikel Arteta’s side were under pressure after their recent 2-2 draw against Wolves but they showed no signs of nervousness and showed their quality at the top level by beating their arch rivals in a convincing manner.
The win restored Arsenal’s lead over City to five points, with City playing a game less than Arteta’s side.
More than that, it showed that the Gunners are ready for the title challenge in the final stages of the season.
Gary Neville praises Arsenal striker Gyokeres
Neville picked Gyokeres as one of the best performers for the Gunners against Tottenham.
‘He looks really lively and smart, Gyokeres,’ Neville said, as reported by Metro.
‘It’s the best I’ve seen him for a while. It’s a great moment for him. He’s still got a lot to do when it comes to him – and he hasn’t always been smooth – but it’s a wonderful finish.
‘Gyokeres has had one of his best games for Arsenal, he’s been a real nuisance. It’s the best I’ve seen him in a big game.
‘He’s never going to be the prettiest striker but he deserves that award. He’s looked sharper today as well, it’s the most involved he’s been in a Premier League game.’
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