The soccer world may soon miss a moment many fans had been waiting for: a potential showdown between Cristiano Ronaldo and Christian Pulisic on the international stage. As preparations intensify for the next international window, uncertainty has suddenly surrounded the Portuguese icon following a worrying injury update from his club, Al-Nassr.

Ronaldo has been enjoying another prolific season in the Saudi Pro League, continuing to lead the attack for the Riyadh-based club while also remaining the central figure of the Portugal national team. At the same time, excitement had been building for the Selecao’s upcoming friendlies against the Mexico national team and the United States men’s national team; fixtures that could have featured a high-profile duel with Milan star Pulisic.

However, recent developments have thrown those expectations into doubt. Ronaldo’s injury has triggered concern not only for his club but also for Portugal’s preparations ahead of the 2026 World Cup. While the full implications were not immediately clear, the situation has raised a crucial question: could the Portuguese captain miss those highly anticipated matches entirely?

The concern began during Al-Nassr’s Saudi Pro League clash with Al-Fayha. Ronaldo, who had already missed a penalty earlier in the game, was visibly in discomfort late in the match before eventually being substituted in the 81st minute. Soon after, the Riyadh outfit confirmed the diagnosis in an official statement. “Cristiano Ronaldo has been diagnosed with a hamstring injury after the last game against Al-Fayha. He started a rehabilitation program and will be under evaluation day by day.”

The update immediately raised alarms because of the timing. Ronaldo has been one of the most decisive players in the Saudi Pro League this season, delivering 22 goals and seven assists in just 24 league appearances, making him the competition’s top scorer. His performances have played a crucial role in Al-Nassr’s title push under coach Jorge Jesus, with the club fighting for its first league championship of the Ronaldo era. If the injury sidelines him for several weeks, it would leave a major void not only for Al-Nassr but also for Portugal’s upcoming international fixtures.

Race against time for international friendlies

Portugal’s next matches are part of the final preparations before the 2026 World Cup, making them extremely important for coach Roberto Martínez. The national team is scheduled to face Mexico on March 28 at the historic reopening of the famous Estadio Azteca, before taking on the United States on March 31 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

According to medical assessments relayed by Saudi physical therapist Thamer Al-Shahrani and widely reported by transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, the recovery timeline could threaten Ronaldo’s participation in those matches. “Cristiano Ronaldo could be out for up to four weeks with muscle injury. More tests will follow soon as Cristiano is working with clear target to return ASAP after hamstring problems”, the Italian journalist revealed.

Romano added that the timeline could extend long enough to affect the upcoming international break. “He’s expected to miss the upcoming two games as his recovery could take 2-4 weeks maximum — also on this will depend his presence with Portugal this month.” In other words, Ronaldo may not be available for the clashes against Mexico and the USMNT, meaning the anticipated meeting with Pulisic might not happen after all.

Crucial moment before the World Cup

The timing of the injury is particularly sensitive because these friendlies are expected to be Portugal’s final competitive rehearsals before the 2026 World Cup. For Ronaldo, the tournament could represent his sixth and potentially final World Cup appearance, further increasing the importance of maintaining full fitness in the months leading up to the competition.

Despite being 41 years old, Ronaldo has repeatedly defied expectations throughout his career with his remarkable physical conditioning. He has often returned from injuries faster than predicted and rarely misses extended periods of action. That resilience gives hope to both Al-Nassr and Portugal supporters that he could yet recover in time.

As speculation swirls across Europe and beyond, the future of Paris Saint-Germain star Vitinha has become a major talking point in the transfer market. With elite clubs monitoring his development and the financial power of the Saudi Pro League continuing to reshape global soccer, questions have emerged about whether the Portuguese midfielder might one day follow his international teammate Cristiano Ronaldo to the Middle East.

Vitinha’s performances for PSG have elevated him into one of the most admired midfielders in Europe, attracting attention from clubs such as Real Madrid and sparking discussions about lucrative offers from the Saudi Pro League. Some reports have even suggested he could dramatically increase his salary by making such a move, potentially earning two or three times his current wages.

Yet when the 26-year-old finally addressed the rumors publicly, he delivered a striking response that revealed far more about his priorities than many expected. During a recent interview, the Portuguese midfielder made a bold seven-word declaration explaining his stance on chasing money and leaving Europe, a statement that has quickly become the centerpiece of the debate surrounding his future.

What did Vitinha say about possible move to Saudi Arabia?

Since joining Paris Saint-Germain from Porto in 2022 for around $46 million, Vitinha has transformed into a central figure in the Parisian midfield, particularly under the guidance of coach Luis Enrique. His ability to dictate tempo, maintain possession, and control games from deep has made him one of the most consistent performers in European soccer.

While interest from Real Madrid generated headlines in Europe, the financial power of the Saudi Pro League has also raised questions about whether the Portugal international could eventually be tempted by a massive offer similar to those accepted by many stars in recent years.

Speaking in an interview with Canal 11, the player acknowledged the enormous financial incentives available in Saudi Arabia. Yet he delivered a short but powerful statement that summed up his approach to career decisions. “Let’s not be naive. I’m more committed to a stable career.”

The seven-word declaration — “I’m more committed to a stable career” — revealed the midfielder’s priorities clearly: long-term sporting success matters more to him than financial gain. He went on to elaborate on his reasoning, explaining that he already earns a significant salary playing at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

“I already earn very well here in Europe, at a big club. Doubling or tripling that salary wouldn’t make me any happier.” The remark stands out in an era when many top players have accepted massive offers from the Middle East. The comments represent one of the clearest statements yet from the Portuguese international about his long-term future, especially after he signed a contract extension with PSG that runs until 2029.

Son Heung-min will undoubtedly be one of the main attractions at the 2026 World Cup. He is the biggest star for South Korea and has already proven to be a notable figure in the United States since arriving in MLS to play for LAFC. Now, the forward has chosen his favorite legend in the history of the FIFA tournament.

With the event in North America drawing closer, FIFA’s official social media accounts released a video this week showing players from different national teams selecting their favorite legend in World Cup history.

Among them was Son Heung-min, who did not hesitate in his answer: “Cristiano Ronaldo.” Unlike many of the other players interviewed, the LAFC star did not choose an icon from his own country, instead basing his selection on personal preference and his admiration for the Portuguese forward’s qualities.

This is not the first time Son has singled out Ronaldo above any other player. In fact, a few months ago he also named the Portugal star as an inspiration. “Cristiano Ronaldo has always been my biggest idol and I’ve grown up watching him when he was playing for Manchester United alongside Park Ji Sun. I still watch him play and he’s still my idol,” Son said.

Other players gave a variety of answers. South Korea star Lee Jae-sung chose a legend from his own country, Park Ji Sung. Others did the same, including Brazil’s Estevao, who picked Ronaldo Nazario; Colombia’s Luis Diaz, who highlighted Radamel Falcao Garcia; and Japan’s Takefusa Kubo, who named Yuto Nagatomo.

Is Cristiano Ronaldo a World Cup legend?

Beyond Son Heung-min’s comments and his personal reasons for choosing Cristiano Ronaldo, it is fair to ask whether the 41-year-old forward can truly be considered a World Cup legend based on his performances with the Portugal national team.

In Ronaldo’s favor, he is among the players who have appeared in the most editions of the FIFA tournament in history. So far he has played in five, starting with Germany 2006, and he is tied with players such as Lionel Messi, Lothar Matthaus, Gianluigi Buffon, and Andres Guardado. In fact, this year he could break that record and become the first player to appear in six World Cups, something Messi could also achieve.

However, in terms of team results, Ronaldo’s World Cup résumé is less remarkable. Across his five appearances, Portugal’s best finish was fourth place in 2006, when they were eliminated by France in the semifinals. That was followed by one quarterfinal exit, two Round of 16 eliminations, and one group-stage exit.

Individually, Cristiano Ronaldo’s numbers are solid, though they fall short of the extraordinary standards he has set throughout his career. He has played 22 matches at the World Cup — fifth on the all-time list — recording 8 goals and 2 assists. His best tournament performance came at Russia 2018, when he scored a hat trick against Spain and added another goal against Morocco.

Despite an unstable start to the season, Pep Guardiola has managed to steer Manchester City‘s performances back on track following the arrival of Marc Guehi. Even so, they face significant uncertainty in midfield next season due to the possible departure of Bernardo Silva. As a result, the Citizens are reportedly leading the race ahead of Manchester United to sign a Bundesliga star.

Over the past few months, Manchester United have shown interest in Felix Nmecha, who has been shining at Borussia Dortmund, according to Fussball Daten. Amid their midfield rebuild, the Red Devils view the German’s box-to-box and organizational profile as key. Under contract until 2028, the German side are reportedly asking for €70 million. However, Manchester City have joined the race for his signing and are currently leading the pursuit.

According to TEAMtalk, the Citizens are pushing for Nmecha’s return, as he developed in the club’s youth academy. While the Manchester United showed interest first, Pep Guardiola’s side have now moved ahead in the race for his signature. At just 25 years old, the German wants to play in the Premier League. In addition, Manchester City may not hesitate to pay the transfer fee, as Bernardo Silva is reportedly heading towards a free agent exit.

After Jude Bellingham’s departure in 2023, Borussia Dortmund decided to give control of the midfield to Felix Nmecha, something that proved to be a complete success. He not only shines defensively, but also manages to organize the play, making him key for coach Nico Kovac. After failing to secure a big-money sale in recent years, the German side could now opt for the departure of the 25-year-old star.

Nmecha’s potential arrival at Manchester City could be crucial

Unlike previous seasons, Manchester City are going through a significant midfield transition. Pep Guardiola has not found the team’s stability in Tijjani Reijnders and Mateo Kovacic, leaving much of the responsibility on Bernardo Silva. However, the Portuguese midfielder is reportedly heading toward a free-agent exit, something that could also happen with the Croatian, who has struggled to shine. Because of this, the arrival of Felix Nmecha could become crucial.

With Rodri Hernandez and Nico Gonzalez in the defensive pivot, the Citizens could deploy Nmecha as a playmaker, rotating with Reijnders. As a physical player who contributes both defensively and offensively — and still relatively young — the German could be seen by Guardiola as a vital addition. In addition, he developed in the club’s youth academy, meaning he already knows the working methodology, which could be a major advantage.

Los Angeles Galaxy face the challenge of bouncing back from a poor 2025 season and seriously competing for the Major League Soccer title this year. In that context, there has been speculation about the possible arrival of Philippe Coutinho, something the club’s General Manager recently addressed.

During an interview on Cobi Club with former USMNT player Cobi Jones, Will Kuntz was asked about the rumors regarding negotiations with Coutinho. “I can say that where there’s smoke, there’s fire,” the GM said, hinting that there was some truth to those reports.

“We analyzed many players during this offseason. There were several very interesting and high-level profiles,” Kuntz later added. “But the reality is that we wanted to prioritize bringing the group together as soon as possible and having the full squad as soon as possible. That’s why we couldn’t wait for players who weren’t aligned with that objective.”

LA Galaxy’s roster moves this year

While the MLS transfer window still has several weeks remaining — it does not close until March 26 — clubs have already been competing in the league for weeks. For that reason, most teams have opted to finalize their squads early rather than lose valuable time during the season.

That has been LA Galaxy’s approach, as they made several changes to their roster compared to last season’s disappointing campaign. One of the club’s most significant additions this year was forward Joao Klauss, who arrived from St. Louis. He was joined by three other players who were already in MLS: Jakob Glesnes, Justin Haak, and Erik Thommy. Among the departures, the most notable include Jonathan Perez to Nashville SC, John McCarthy to New York Red Bulls, and Matheus Nascimento to Botafogo.

While none of the players who joined LA Galaxy this year have the quality and experience of Philippe Coutinho, they all arrived early in the offseason and allowed head coach Greg Vanney to shape the squad with enough time to compete in MLS and the Concacaf Champions Cup.

What will happen with Coutinho?

For weeks, Coutinho’s future appeared to be down to two possible paths: LA Galaxy or retirement. The player’s own comments during his farewell to Vasco da Gama — in which he referenced prioritizing his mental health — seemed to increase the chances of that being the final outcome of his career.

However, with the possibility of joining Galaxy now off the table, reports have pointed to other opportunities for a potential return to Europe. According to Sports Illustrated, cited by Fichajes, three La Liga clubs have shown interest in the Brazilian midfielder: Elche, Girona, and Rayo Vallecano.

Coutinho has played in Spain before, with Espanyol and Barcelona. Those experiences came at very different moments in his career: with Espanyol he spent only a few months during the 2011–12 season on loan from Inter Milan, while he joined Barcelona as a global superstar in 2018 after shining at Liverpool. Considering that his last spell in La Liga did not leave the best impression, the Brazilian playmaker may be motivated by the opportunity to get another chance there.

As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup on home soil grows shorter, debates around the greatest players in U.S. men’s national team history are heating up again. With the tournament set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, one question has resurfaced among fans: who truly stands as the greatest American player of all time, and what’s Christian Pulisic‘s rank on the eternal list?

A new ranking from Sports Illustrated attempted to answer that question by listing the Top 25 USMNT players in history. And the result has already sparked discussion across the soccer world, particularly because of where one current superstar landed. At the center of the conversation is a player who is still writing his story in Europe and who could lead the national team into the biggest tournament in its history.

According to the ranking, Christian Pulisic sits at No. 1 among the greatest American players ever. The list places the current Milan winger ahead of several legends who defined earlier generations of U.S. soccer.

For a player still in his prime, the placement is significant. Pulisic has already built a résumé unmatched by most American players abroad. After emerging at Borussia Dortmund, he later became a key figure at Chelsea, where he won the UEFA Champions League in 2021.

Since moving to Milan, his impact has only grown, with consistent goals and assists in Serie A helping solidify his reputation as the most influential American attacking player in Europe. By placing him at the top, Sports Illustrated effectively argues that Pulisic’s club success and international influence already outweigh the achievements of past U.S. icons.

Legends still close behind

Despite Pulisic’s top spot, the list heavily honors players who carried the U.S. national team through earlier eras. Second place went to Clint Dempsey, long regarded as one of the most creative and fearless American attackers. Dempsey shares the USMNT scoring record and built an impressive European career with Fulham and Tottenham.

Third place belongs to Landon Donovan, whose name is forever linked with the iconic last-minute goal against Algeria at the 2010 World Cup, a moment widely considered the most famous in U.S. soccer history.

Behind them, the ranking continues with several pillars of the national team’s past: Fourth place went to legendary goalkeeper Brad Friedel, followed by playmaker Claudio Reyna. Defensive stalwart Eddie Pope and midfielder Cobi Jones also made the top ten, alongside figures like Tab Ramos and Marcelo Balboa, who helped establish the modern identity of American soccer.

The list also highlights the influence of later stars such as Tim Howard, remembered for his heroic performance against Belgium at the 2014 World Cup, and midfield leader Michael Bradley.

Current generation also represented

Interestingly, the ranking doesn’t only celebrate past heroes. A few members of the current generation already appear on the list, including Giovanni Reyna and Weston McKennie. Their inclusion suggests that the modern U.S. player pool, many of whom compete in Europe’s top leagues, could eventually reshape the historical hierarchy. However, none of them come close to Pulisic’s position at the summit.

Kylian Mbappé‘s latest injury has forced both Real Madrid and the France national team to adjust their plans around the striker’s condition and recovery. With the 2026 World Cup fewer than 100 days away, Les Bleus have reportedly reached a final decision regarding Mbappé’s involvement in the upcoming March international window.

The March window represents the last opportunity for coaches of already-qualified nations to finalize and fine-tune their squads ahead of the tournament. For Didier Deschamps, who guided France through UEFA World Cup qualifying with a group stage victory, sweeping changes to a side considered among the favorites are unlikely, but one significant omission has been confirmed.

According to L’Équipe, Mbappé will not feature for France during the upcoming international break. The decision has been made to give the striker the best possible chance of recovering from the knee injury that has kept him out of action for Real Madrid in recent weeks.

The Spanish club recently released a medical update confirming that Mbappé is dealing with a knee sprain, the same issue that has troubled him since the end of 2025. With surgery already ruled out, considerable uncertainty remains over his precise return date, and the FFF, in agreement with the player, has determined that the risk of calling him up for friendlies outweighs the benefit, given the limited competitive importance of the fixtures.

That means there will be no Mbappé when France travels to the United States for the March window. Les Bleus are scheduled to face Brazil on March 26 at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, before taking on Colombia on March 29 at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland.

The absences from those two friendlies will not raise alarm given the broader picture, but they do come at a personal cost for Mbappé. The striker currently sits on 55 international goals for France, just two shy of the all-time record of 57 held by Olivier Giroud, a milestone that will have to wait a little longer.

What about Real Madrid?

The situation at club level carries a different sense of urgency, not only because Mbappé has been Real Madrid’s top scorer in the 2025-26 season, but because Los Blancos are entering a pivotal stretch of the campaign. The first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 takes place next week, in a tie that could define the remainder of their season.

With that in mind, reports from Diario Marca indicate that Mbappé is doing everything in his power to be available for the March 11 first leg, targeting at the very least a place on the substitutes’ bench. Speaking at his press conference on Thursday ahead of the Celta Vigo match, interim head coach Álvaro Arbeloa offered an encouraging update on the striker’s progress.

“I speak with him every day, and of course, we’re closely monitoring what’s happening and how he’s doing. He’s getting better every day; it’s a process where we’re just taking it day by day. As of right now, it’s nothing but good news, and he’s steadily improving,” Arbeloa said, raising hopes of a return sooner than initially anticipated.

Lautaro Martinez has opened up on his ambitions, his love for Inter’s supporters, and the personal difficulties he has overcome during a wide-ranging virtual Q&A with fans organised by theresidency.io.

The Argentine striker was characteristically direct when asked about his ultimate footballing dream, and it is one that has so far eluded him despite an already decorated career.

“Winning the World Cup is the most important thing in football,” he said, via TuttoMercatoWeb. “But the dream I still want to achieve is winning the Champions League.”

Inter captain Lautaro Martínez reflects on career so far

Lautaro also reflected on his remarkable goalscoring record for the club, having recently climbed to third in Inter’s all-time scoring charts.

“I never imagined reaching this,” he admitted.

“But with work and sacrifice, everything is achievable. Inter is passion. Wearing the captain’s armband for the first time was an indescribable emotion, just like every goal I score at San Siro.”

The Argentine was particularly warm when discussing the Nerazzurri faithful, who have embraced him unconditionally since his arrival from Racing Club.

“From the very first day I felt loved by the people here,” he said. “I feel proud of that.” He also acknowledged that his journey has not always been straightforward, citing personal difficulties alongside physical setbacks, including a metatarsal injury during his time at Racing and an ankle problem sustained during the World Cup triumph with Argentina, as moments that have shaped his character.

Currently sidelined with a muscular injury, Lautaro will be eager to return to full fitness and continue writing his name into Inter’s history books.

Aston Villa defender Lucas Digne has now explained why he has chosen to live in London instead of Birmingham, despite playing for the West Midlands club. 

The left-back has explained that there are no French schools in Birmingham, and he wants his children to receive an education in both French and English. Residing in London has enabled him to provide his children with a multicultural education.

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Lucas Digne on his London stay

Digne told SoFoot (h/t SportWitness): “It’s a family decision. When I signed for Villa (in 2022), my son started school, but in Birmingham, there aren’t any French schools.

“For us, it was really important that our children could read and write in both French and English. In London, they have the opportunity to do both. They have two cultures, or even three, since my wife’s family is Algerian. They’re young, but you can tell they’re already open-minded.”

The French fullback has to make a long commute to play for the West Midlands club, and he has not been able to relocate due to family reasons. The defender also explained that he leaves home early in the morning to attend club training regularly.

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Digne has been very good

Digne has been an important player for Aston Villa since joining the club, and he is certainly one of the best fullbacks in the country right now. He will be hoping to help them finish the season strongly and secure Champions League qualification for the upcoming campaign. They have done well in the Premier League so far, and they will look to finish on a high.

The player has been linked with an exit from Aston Villa in recent months, but they need to keep quality players like him if they want to consistently compete at the highest level.

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Newcastle United picked up a dramatic win over Manchester United on Wednesday, but Jacob Ramsey was sent off during the game.

The Newcastle United midfielder picked up two yellow cards against Manchester United, and he received the second one for diving late on in the first half.

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Dermot Gallagher on Jacob Ramsey red card

Newcastle will be delighted that the decision did not cost them dearly in the game. They had to play 45 minutes without a key player, and it could have easily cost them valuable points. The manager will be frustrated with the situation, and the player will also know that he made a mistake. It will be interesting to see if he can learn from this experience and bounce back strongly.

Ramsey has been an important player for Newcastle since joining the club, and he will look to establish himself as an asset for them. He was a very good player for Aston Villa as well.

There have been speculations about whether the officials’ decision was right.

Speaking on Sky Sports’ Ref Watch, Dermot Gallagher explained (h/t Chronicle): “I back the referee because of the angle.

“Does he have to do that? Is he caught? No. He goes down so far after the incident has happened, and I don’t think he needs to. I would also suggest that if he hadn’t have got a yellow card for that, people would be screaming and saying we don’t want diving. So Peter Bankes has taken positive action, so back him.”

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Newcastle win despite Ramsey red card

Newcastle picked up a 2-1 win against Manchester United thanks to a late goal from William Osula. They have been quite poor in recent weeks, and the win over Manchester United will give them a huge confidence boost.

It will be interesting to see if they can build on it and finish the season strongly.

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Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing the Werder Bremen defender Karim Coulibaly at the end of the season.

According to a report from Sports Boom, they are hoping to sign the 18-year-old defender in the summer, and his performances have impressed the Arsenal scouts.

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Arsenal scouts fancy Karim Coulibaly

The report claims that Arsenal scouts have given a “glowing” recommendation regarding the player, and it remains to be seen whether Arsenal can get the deal done. The left-footed central defender has the quality to develop into an important player for a top Premier League club in the future. Arsenal have done well to groom young players, and they could help him fulfil his potential.

If they can sign the 18-year-old for a reasonable amount of money, he could develop into a key player for the club in future.

The defender is likely to cost around €30 million, and Arsenal certainly have the financial muscle to pay up. However, the player is largely unproven at the highest level, and they might prefer to sign him for a more reasonable fee. It will be interesting to see how the situation develops. The towering defender has the physicality for English football, and he could be an important investment for Arsenal in the long term.

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Coulibaly could be tempted

The opportunity to join the north London club will be tempting for the Germany under-19 international. They are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to play for them will be hard to turn down. They could help him win major trophies in future.

Arsenal are looking to build a team for the future, and it is no surprise that they are keen on the German defender. It remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done.

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As anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil, debate continues over where the best American players should develop their careers. The discussion has intensified around stars such as Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie, especially as the growing global influence of Lionel Messi in Major League Soccer continues to reshape the sport’s profile in North America.

With Messi’s arrival having transformed the perception of MLS and drawn global attention to the league, some supporters have wondered whether more elite American players might follow the same path and return home before the 2026 tournament. However, one former international star has delivered a blunt assessment explaining why that scenario remains unlikely.

In a recent discussion about the future of American talent, former Italy international Giuseppe Rossi offered a stark perspective on why players like Pulisic and McKennie are expected to continue building their careers abroad rather than joining MLS, even as the World Cup approaches.

The current United States men’s national soccer team is widely regarded as one of the most talented squads the country has ever produced. Unlike previous generations, many of its key figures are competing at the highest level in Europe. Players such as Pulisic, McKennie, Folarin Balogun, and Antonee Robinson have all established themselves in elite European competitions.

Their presence in leagues like the Premier League, Serie A, and Bundesliga has played a major role in raising expectations for the national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Yet despite MLS investing heavily in infrastructure and attracting major global names, Rossi believes the league still faces structural challenges that prevent it from becoming the preferred destination for elite American talent in their prime years.

What did Giuseppe Rossi say?

Speaking in an interview with Goal, Rossi did not hesitate when asked whether a top American player could reach their full potential by staying in MLS rather than moving abroad. “That is a big challenge, but the real football is played in Europe. Real football is played in Europe. That’s where everybody wants to be.”

The former forward, who spent his career at clubs including Manchester United, Villarreal, and Fiorentina before a late-career spell with Real Salt Lake, argued that the structure of the American league still differs significantly from that of traditional football competitions.

According to Rossi, MLS is organized more like a typical American sports league, which limits its ability to compete with the global football ecosystem dominated by European competitions. “The big league here in America is the MLS. The MLS is run like an American sport, but we have to remember that football is an international sport.”

He continued by highlighting the contrast between sports that originated in the United States and the global nature of soccer. “You could run the NFL, you could run the NBA, you could run baseball in an American way… because it’s an American sport. Those are three American sports, but football is an international sport.”

Why Europe still holds the advantage

In Rossi’s view, the gap between MLS and Europe’s top leagues remains substantial. He believes the best players will continue to pursue opportunities in Europe because of the level of competition and the structure of those leagues. “They have a long, long way to go to be at the same level of a Premier League, of a Serie A, of a Bundesliga. And rightfully so, they should aspire to play in Europe.”

Salary caps and centralized league management have long been debated topics in MLS, and Rossi hinted that these systems may limit the league’s ability to retain young stars. “It’s not the right structure that you’re going to attract young players to develop, to keep around. I think it’s great for owners… but I don’t like things that are built from the top down. I’m always a believer of building from the bottom up.”

After shining at Leeds United, Tyler Adams joined AFC Bournemouth in 2023, establishing himself as one of the team’s most important players. While he has suffered numerous injuries during his tenure, the USMNT star has managed to stand out as one of the most solid defensive midfielders. For this reason, the 27-year-old star is reportedly attracting the attention of several top teams in the Premier League in post-2026 World Cup move.

According to the Daily Mail, Tyler Adams’ performances at AFC Bournemouth are attracting interest from Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool. Under contract until 2028, he could leave for around €40 million. However, the USMNT star may not move until after the 2026 World Cup. While the 27-year-old midfielder is being monitored, he has not yet received any formal offers.

While he is coming off a medial knee ligament tear, Tyler has managed to regain his place in the starting lineup, shining alongside Alex Scott. The USMNT star may not stand out in terms of goals or creativity, but his defensive contribution fully balances the midfield. In addition, he has managed to remain one of the most consistent players over the last three years, making a move to Chelsea, Liverpool or Manchester United sound increasingly likely.

Tyler Adams’ potential move to Red Devils could be his best move

Unlike with the Blues, Tyler Adams might hold a key role in Manchester United. With Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s potential transfer, he could see significant playing time. Whether as a starter or in rotation, he may not face much competition for his spot. Moreover, his foot skills have developed well under coach Andoni Iraola, making him a solid fit for Michael Carrick’s system, especially given his €40 million price tag.

According to some British media outlets, the Red Devils are aiming for a midfield rebuild, keeping only Kobbie Mainoo, Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount. With this in mind, they could target not only Tyler but also a world-class option such as Elliot Anderson or Bruno Guimarães. Taking this into account, the USMNT player might not be an undisputed starter, but he could still play an important role in the rotation, as he would not face much more competition.

If Tyler Adams decides to move to Chelsea, it could be more difficult for him to secure playing time. With Dário Essugo, Roméo Lavia, Andrey Santos and Moisés Caicedo already in the squad, the USMNT star might struggle to find minutes. It would be very different at Liverpool, as they are reportedly planning to depart with Curtis Jones, Stefan Bajčetić and Wataru Endo, opening space for him. However, it would depend on those departures.

In addition to Major League Soccer and the Concacaf Champions Cup, Inter Miami will also face the challenge of competing in the Leagues Cup this year. The tournament that brings together top teams from MLS and Liga MX will begin after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and Lionel Messi will be among the stars taking part.

This Thursday, the matchups and schedule for Phase One of the Leagues Cup were officially revealed. The tournament is set to begin on Tuesday, August 4, with the final scheduled for Sunday, September 6.

Inter Miami will, of course, be one of the tournament’s main attractions, driven by the global appeal Lionel Messi brings, as well as other stars such as Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul. They will play their three matches in the opening stage at home, at the soon-to-be inaugurated Nu Stadium at Miami Freedom Park.

The Herons will make their Leagues Cup debut on Wednesday, August 5 against Atletico San Luis. Three days later, they will play their second match against CF Monterrey — where German Berterame will face his former club — and they will close out Phase One on Wednesday, August 12 against Club Leon.

What will the 2026 Leagues Cup format look like?

This year, the Leagues Cup will keep most of the rules that were introduced in the 2025 edition. There will be 18 participating teams from each league, ranked according to their performance during the 2025 regular season. During Phase One and the quarterfinals, all matches will be played between teams from the two different leagues.

The biggest change in 2026 is that, for the first time, some matches in the tournament will be played in Mexico. The three highest-ranked Liga MX clubs in the Leagues Cup standings will have that advantage during the opening stage: Club Toluca, Tigres UANL, and Club America.

Once Phase One is completed, the four best teams from each league will advance to the quarterfinals, where they will face one another. The semifinals will then take place — scheduled for September 1 and 2 — before the final on Sunday, September 6. The Leagues Cup champion will qualify directly for the Round of 16 of the 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup, while two other clubs will also secure qualification for the continental tournament.

Messi has plenty of experience in the Leagues Cup

For Lionel Messi, the Leagues Cup holds special significance. It was the first tournament he played after arriving at Inter Miami in the summer of 2023. On that occasion, the Argentine forward led the Herons to the first title in the club’s history, a trophy that also helped Leo become the most decorated player of all time.

The 2024 edition was far less successful for Inter Miami, who were eliminated in the Round of 16 after losing to Columbus Crew. But in 2025 they were once again among the tournament’s protagonists, reaching the final before falling 3-0 to Seattle Sounders. Messi has posted impressive numbers in the Leagues Cup, recording 12 goals and 3 assists in 11 appearances.

Napoli welcome back two long-absent midfielders for Friday evening’s home clash with Torino, with both Kevin De Bruyne and Frank Zambo Anguissa named in Antonio Conte’s squad after months on the sidelines, although neither will start.

The Belgian and the Cameroonian, out since 25 October and 11 November respectively, are included purely as bench options, with Conte managing their returns carefully, as per La Repubblica.

A shortened preparation week due to the Friday fixture meant the training match he typically uses to sharpen recovering players could not take place.

Lobotka injured as De Bruyne & Zambo Anguissa return for Napoli

The positive news is tempered considerably by fresh midfield casualties.

Stanislav Lobotka has joined Scott McTominay on the treatment table with a muscular complaint sustained after the Verona win, meaning all four of Conte’s preferred central midfielders are simultaneously unavailable for the first time this season.

Rrahmani, Di Lorenzo and David Neres remain longer-term absentees.

Billy Gilmour and Eljif Elmas will start in midfield, with Romelu Lukaku among the substitutes alongside De Bruyne and Anguissa. Up front, a youthful attacking trio of Antonio Vergara, Rasmus Højlund and Alisson Santos will lead the line.

Napoli remain unbeaten at home in Serie A this season, and with 50,000 fans expected, plus the added subplot of Giovanni Simeone returning as opposition, the atmosphere should be suitably charged. Three points are essential for Napoli’s Champions League ambitions, and Conte will be determined to make home advantage count.

Cesc Fabregas has dismissed any suggestion that Como’s 0-0 draw with Inter in the Coppa Italia semi-final first leg represented a missed opportunity, insisting his side performed well enough to have won the tie, and that the second leg in seven weeks’ time remains very much alive.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s Serie A clash with Cagliari, the Como head coach was characteristically detailed and passionate in his defence of his side’s display against the league leaders.

“Was it a missed opportunity? Sincerely, no,” he said, with quotes via CalcioMercato.

“We had three great chances to score, including Nico Paz, and they barely threatened our goal. I would like to know how many times in recent years Inter have managed just 0.07 expected goals.”

Fabregas proud of Como performance against Inter

Fabregas was equally pointed in pushing back against any criticism of his tactical approach in the closing stages, when Como sat deep rather than chasing a winner.

“If we had gone all-out and conceded a late goal, I would not have slept,” he said.

“We controlled Inter very well. For anyone used to watching teams do that against Inter, well, good for you.”

His only genuine regret was a lack of quality in the final third, with Valle and Vojvoda both failing to convert when well-placed.

“It was not attitude or tactics, it was quality in the last moment,” he conceded. “But after 40 years, we go to Milan in seven weeks to play for a final. Is it impossible? Nothing is impossible.”

The broader context is equally remarkable. Fabregas also reflected on an extraordinary run of fixtures, nine wins, four draws and two defeats across a gruelling 63-day stretch in which Como played every four days. Only the defeat to Fiorentina, he argued, was deserved.

Saturday’s visit of Cagliari offers a chance to maintain the momentum, and Fabregas is expecting another tight affair against a well-organised side.

“I know Pisacane very well, he is doing a tremendous job,” he said. “We want to play our game and bring home three points.”

Radja Nainggolan has never been short of an opinion, and the former Roma midfielder was in characteristically outspoken form in a wide-ranging interview with Sportium.fun, taking aim at Juventus, the VAR system, and even Paul Pogba along the way.

The Belgian, who resisted several opportunities to join Juventus during his career, explained his reluctance in the most Nainggolan way imaginable.

“I used to play Football Manager and I never picked the strongest team,” he said, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.

“When a club like Roma wins the title, it is a celebration for twenty years. At Juventus you have to win it every year, it is a completely different feeling.”

Nainggolan on Juventus referee bias and VAR

He then ventured into more controversial territory, citing what he described as personal experience of referee bias at the Allianz Stadium.

“When they inaugurated the Juventus Stadium, I played there with Cagliari and we drew 1-1 thanks to a non-existent penalty given to Juventus,” he said.

“Then I arrived at Roma, first game at the same stadium, we lost 3-2 with two penalties that were given outside the box. Everyone saw it. It is the truth, only not everyone can bring themselves to say it.”

On VAR, Nainggolan’s verdict was equally blunt.

“Football should be like it used to be,” he said. “If mistakes are still being made with VAR, then it is right to remove it and just let referees make errors naturally. Real football is something else.”

Perhaps most eyebrow-raising was his assessment of his midfield contemporaries. “In my era in Serie A, only Vidal and De Rossi were as strong as me,” he claimed. “Pogba? I was better than him, he only had three good years in his entire career.”

Now contemplating his next move, Nainggolan revealed he is considering taking his coaching badges. “Looking at what is out there,” he said with typical modesty, “I think I could do it.”

Liverpool is interested in signing Federico Dimarco from Inter Milan during the summer transfer window.

They will face competition from Arsenal and Manchester United for the 28-year-old Italian defender. Dimarco is in the form of his life, and he has been exceptional for the Italian outfit. The player has already recorded 22 goal contributions, and he has been excellent defensively as well.

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Liverpool eye Federico Dimarco

Liverpool is likely to lose Andrew Robertson at the end of the season, and they will need to replace the Scottish international. Signing the Italian could prove to be a wise decision. He has the quality and the experience to replace the Liverpool star. Meanwhile, a report from Sports Boom claims that the player could cost around €80 million in the summer.

He is a “flagship player” for the Italian club, and they do not want to lose him easily. It remains to be seen whether Liverpool is prepared to pay €80 million for a full-back. They need to improve other areas of the squad as well.

Meanwhile, they splashed out on Hungarian defender Milos Kerkez at the start of the season. He is the first-choice left-back at the club right now, and it seems unlikely that they will drop him from the starting lineup and sign Dimarco for a substantial amount of money in the summer.

Any left-back coming in is likely to be a backup to the Hungarian rather than a marquee signing.

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Dimarco is a man in demand

Meanwhile, Arsenal and Manchester United could use more depth at full-back, and it will be interesting to see whether they are willing to pay a premium for the Italian.

He is at the peak of his career right now and playing his best football with the Italian club. Whoever ends up signing him will have a star on their hands.

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Liverpool is interested in signing Joel Ordonez during the summer transfer window, and they will face competition from Chelsea for his signature. 

The 21-year-old central defender has done quite well for Club Brugge, and a report from SportsBoom claims that Liverpool would be willing to pay more than £40 million in order to sign the defender. Ordonez has been hailed as a “huge talent”.

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Joel Ordonez is a top talent

The Ecuador international is a tremendous talent with a bright future, and he could develop into a key player for Liverpool if they manage to sign him. They need more quality and depth in central defence, especially with Ibrahima Konaté expected to leave the club in the summer.

The French International will be out of contract soon, and he has not yet signed an extension with the club. Liverpool need to replace him properly, and the South American would be ideal for them. The 21-year-old has shown his quality in Belgium, and he has the physicality and technical attributes for English football as well.

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Chelsea keen on Ordonez

Chelsea is also keeping tabs on his development. They need to find upgrades on players like Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile. It will be interesting to see if they can convince the 21-year-old to join the club. The opportunity to play in the Premier League will be exciting for the young defender, and he will look to join a big club. Both Liverpool and Chelsea will be attractive destinations for him.

Club Brugge could be tempted to sell the player if an offer in excess of £40 million is presented in the summer. It remains to be seen how the situation unfolds.

Regular football in England could help Ordonez improve further and accelerate his development.

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Manchester United are interested in signing Julian Ryerson from Borussia Dortmund at the end of the season. 

The 28-year-old has been exceptional for the German club this season, and he could be sold in the summer. The German outfit will need to raise funds to balance the books, especially after failing to secure a place beyond the UEFA Champions League playoff stages this season.

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Julian Ryerson asking price set

They are ready to sell the player for €30 million, and Manchester United are keen on him. The player has been labelled as the ‘king of crosses’ by BILD, and it remains to be seen whether Manchester United are prepared to pay up.

He has registered 14 assists in all competitions this season, and there is no doubt that he has the quality to succeed in the Premier League. Ryerson could add a new dimension to Manchester United. He will help them tighten up at the back and create more opportunities for his teammates going forward.

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Man United could use Ryerson

Diogo Dalot has been a decent option for Manchester United, but his attacking game leaves a lot to be desired. Manchester United could use an upgrade in that area of the pitch. The 28-year-old has the quality and experience to make an immediate impact.

The €30 million asking price is reasonable for a player of his quality as well. Manchester United have the resources to get the deal across the line, and they should look to wrap up the move quickly.

The player is reportedly a target for Liverpool and Barcelona as well. It will be interesting to see where he ends up. The opportunity to move to La Liga or the Premier League will be tempting for him. It would be a major step up in his career, and he would get to test himself at an elite level.

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Verdict: Lamine Yamal over 0.5 shots on target Best Odds: 2/5 Bookmaker: Dachbet Turning their attention back to La Liga action on Saturday night, Barcelona will travel to San Mames when they meet Athletic Bilbao. Athletic Bilbao Starting with the hosts, suffering Copa del Rey frustration earlier in the week as they fell to a […]

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FIFA has taken a significant step toward protecting player welfare with a notable rule change set to be exclusive to the 2026 World Cup, at least for now. Every match in the competition will feature two guaranteed cooling breaks, each governed by a specific protocol.

Cooling breaks have become a familiar sight in soccer over recent years, particularly when players are competing in extreme heat. However, this will mark the first time in the tournament’s history that two hydration breaks will be guaranteed in every single game of a World Cup.

The groundwork for this decision was laid during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, played under conditions similar to what the upcoming World Cup is expected to present. With several players, including Enzo Fernández, voicing complaints about the heat, FIFA president Gianni Infantino flagged the issue publicly, stating that “cooling breaks are very important and we will see what we can do, but we have stadiums with roofs, and we will definitely use these stadiums during the day next year.“

How will cooling breaks work during the World Cup?

Under current practice, cooling breaks have no fixed trigger point and are typically called in dead-ball situations around the 30th and 75th minutes. For the World Cup, more specific guidelines will be in place to bring greater consistency to the process.

In terms of timing, the breaks will occur at roughly the midpoint of each half, meaning approximately the 27th minute in the first half and the 72nd in the second. The exact moment will not be identical in every match, as it will depend on the flow of play, with the referee responsible for calling the stoppage.

Each cooling break will last three minutes. From the moment the referee blows the whistle, players will head to the sidelines to hydrate, and coaches will be permitted to address their players and make tactical adjustments in what amounts to a brief mid-half team talk.

What about the spectators?

Those three minutes are designed to give players sufficient time to recover, rehydrate and reduce the risk of heat-related illness during what will be a summer tournament played in warm conditions across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The experience for those watching from home, however, raises its own set of questions.

According to The Athletic, broadcasters are not required to cut away from the match during a cooling break. They will have the option to stay on the field, return to a studio for analysis, or use the time as they see fit, at their own discretion.

When it comes to commercial advertising, however, certain rules will apply. The outlet reports that any ads shown must align with FIFA’s official World Cup sponsors. In addition, broadcasters must wait at least 20 seconds after the referee’s whistle before cutting to commercials, and must return to the match feed no later than 30 seconds before play resumes, leaving a maximum window of approximately two minutes and ten seconds for advertising during each break.

Kylian Mbappe arrived at Real Madrid in summer 2024 with enormous expectations, instantly becoming the centerpiece of the club’s attack. The French forward has delivered goals and decisive performances throughout the season, but this season has been dominated by uncertainty surrounding his knee woes. Amid that concern, a curious debate has begun to emerge: Does Real Madrid play better without Mbappe?

With the season entering a crucial phase across La Liga and the Champions League, Real Madrid now faces a complicated reality. Its star striker is battling discomfort in his left knee, leaving his availability uncertain. While the club insists the issue is manageable, the situation has reportedly triggered tension behind the scenes and raised questions about how the team performs without its most explosive attacker.

The Frenchman’sphysical issue dates back to early December, when he first felt discomfort after a league defeat against Celta Vigo. Since then, the problem has lingered despite periods in which he continued playing and scoring. Los Blancos eventually confirmed the diagnosis at the end of December, releasing a brief statement that offered little detail about the recovery timeline. “He has been diagnosed with a sprain in his left knee. His progress will be monitored,” the club stated.

Although Mbappe has continued to feature intermittently, the injury forced him to miss recent matches, including a shock 1-0 home defeat to Getafe at the Santiago Bernabeu. That result intensified scrutiny around both his fitness and Madrid’s overall performance.

Manager Alvaro Arbeloa acknowledged the delicate nature of the situation when discussing the forward’s recovery. “It’s hard to tell the difference between discomfort and injury,” Arbeloa explained. “Obviously, when someone isn’t playing, it’s because they’re injured… we decided that he should stop, recover, and come back with confidence.”

The key stat that sparked the debate

Amid the ongoing drama surrounding Mbappe’s fitness, an intriguing statistic has begun circulating in Spanish media. Kylian Mbappe has missed seven games for Real Madrid this season, and the club lost in three of them, as relayed by Fabrizio Romano.

The numbers immediately triggered debate among supporters and analysts. For a club accustomed to dominating domestic and European competitions, a 43 percent defeat rate in matches without their star forward is unusually high. While the sample size remains relatively small, the figures highlight how significantly the team’s dynamics can change when Mbappe is unavailable.

Why Mbappe’s presence still matters

Mbappe’s importance to Real Madrid extends far beyond simple goal totals. The French international provides several tactical elements that shape the team’s attacking identity. His explosive pace allows Madrid to transition rapidly from defense to attack. His movement behind defensive lines forces opponents to retreat deeper, creating space for teammates. And his clinical finishing often turns half-chances into decisive goals.

This season alone, Mbappe has scored 38 of Real Madrid’s 87 goals across all competitions, representing 43.7 percent of the team’s total scoring output. When he is absent, Madrid still possesses elite talent, but the attacking structure inevitably changes. The team loses its most direct outlet, and opponents can defend with slightly less fear of sudden counterattacks.

The numbers suggest that Real Madrid is not entirely dependent on Mbappe, but the Whites are clearly more consistent with him on the pitch. Winning four of seven matches without him demonstrates the squad’s depth and quality. However, the losses in those games indicate that his presence provides a crucial margin for error.

After several years of sporting failures, Manchester United seem to be finding some consistency under Michael Carrick. Despite this, they appear to be looking for a candidate with experience and several titles to his name to lead the project. In light of this, Gareth Bale and Paul Scholes decided to join the conversation, recommending a world-class manager as the “perfect” option to take charge of the Red Devils.

“I think he (Carlo Ancelotti) would do great [at Manchester United]. He’s not just the manager, he is a coach as well. He can do the tactical stuff [too]… If you go into a big club, you’ve got good players, whether they’re performing at the time or not. Like Man United, they have been the last few weeks, but, prior to that, they hadn’t been performing… He’ll get the best out of players and will just simplify things, which you see now with Michael Carrick,” Gareth Bale said, via The Overlap.

Joining Bale statements, Red Devils legend Paul Scholes echoed the Welsman thoughts. Known as a fierce critic of Carrick’s tenure, he decided to support the Italian coach: “The perfect one out there – I say perfect – Ancelotti is still out there. I know he is coach of Brazil. He is the perfect one for Manchester United where you think he will make players feel a million dollars. And he has the experience of winning stuff,” he said, via The Overlap.

While Ancelotti is a coach appreciated by the Red Devils, he has already made it clear that he is close to extending his contract with Brazil for four more years, complicating his arrival. With this in mind, the English side would have a very difficult task convincing him to join the team, as he would not have the same level of stability. For this reason, Manchester United have rather limited options when it comes to choosing their next manager.

Report: Carrick gains ground as Manchester United’s head coach

Following the mid-season departure of Ruben Amorim, Manchester United decided to appoint Michael Carrick as interim manager until the end of the season. With this, they aimed to buy time to search for a world-class coach, moving away from inexperienced candidates after failing in recent years. However, the Englishman coach now appears to be gaining momentum to become the permanent manager due to compelling reasons.

Throughout the season, the Red Devils have targeted Thomas Tuchel and Luis Enrique as their priority candidates. However, both managers appear to have rejected the possibility, remaining in England and at PSG, respectively. While Oliver Glasner seemed like a strong candidate, he now appears to be attracting the attention of Red Bull as Global Head of Soccer. In light of this, Michael Carrick emerges as a strong possibility.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United are considering backing Carrick as their permanent manager. After running out of experienced options, the Englishman’s impact has caught attention, as he has kept the team unbeaten and in the Champions League places since his arrival. In addition, Michael has already expressed that he would be open to this possibility, leaving the door open to any outcome.

Juan Cuadrado faces one of the most emotionally charged fixtures of his season on Saturday, when Pisa travel to the Allianz Stadium to face Juventus, the club where the Colombian winger spent eight defining seasons of his career.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, via IlBianconero, Cuadrado was warm and reflective about his time in Turin, while making clear that sentiment will not get in the way of his desire to help Pisa take something from the game.

“It will be a beautiful match, full of emotions, against a club like Juventus who helped me grow as a professional and as a man,” he said.

“It will be a special evening. But it is a difficult match and we want to play well and take points.”

Cuadrado ‘feeling much better now’ ahead of Juventus return

Cuadrado also addressed the injury that has kept him away from the club in recent weeks, revealing he had travelled abroad to receive specialist treatment, a decision made jointly with Pisa’s medical staff.

“I am much better now and trying to give my best for the team,” he said, adding that he had remained close to his teammates throughout the difficult period. “I have always had the team in my head.”

On the match itself, the 37-year-old was candid about Pisa’s approach, urging his side to go to Turin with freedom and confidence. “Many of our players have never played in that stadium,” he said.

“We must go there with responsibility but also without fear, and try to shoot, like Aebischer did against Sassuolo.”

As for his future beyond this season, Cuadrado was deliberately vague, though his affection for Pisa was evident.

“I feel good here, I love the passion of the supporters,” he said. “But it is not yet the moment to make decisions.”

Sunday’s Milan derby carries enormous weight at both ends of the table, but Inter will be without their captain as Lautaro Martinez continues his recovery from the muscular injury sustained during the Champions League playoff first leg against Bodo/Glimt on 18 February.

Inter’s official medical bulletin confirmed the Argentine suffered a soleus muscle problem in his left leg, and he has not featured since.

The most optimistic scenario points to a return for the Serie A trip to Fiorentina on 22 March, meaning he would also miss next week’s Inter-Atalanta fixture.

Should his recovery take longer, the earliest he could feature is the Inter-Roma clash on 4 April, according to Goal.

His availability for Argentina’s Finalissima against Spain on 27 March also remains uncertain and will depend entirely on his progress in the coming weeks.

Dumfries returns to Inter XI for Milan derby

There is, however, a significant positive for Cristian Chivu ahead of the derby, via IlMilanista.

Denzel Dumfries is back in contention for a starting role after four months on the sidelines, and the Inter head coach is seriously considering handing the Dutchman his first start since returning from injury.

Luis Henrique’s performances on the right flank have been inconsistent, and with no reinforcements arriving in January, Chivu had been managing the situation carefully while waiting for Dumfries to regain full fitness.

That patience now appears ready to be rewarded, with the former PSV man set to reclaim his place as the undisputed first choice on Inter’s right side for one of the season’s most important fixtures.

Adrien Rabiot has established himself as one of Milan’s most important players this season, and in a wide-ranging interview with Rivista Undici, the French midfielder opened up on life at San Siro, his admiration for Luka Modric, and his personal ambitions in the red and black half of Milan.

The former Juventus and PSG man arrived at Milan following a difficult end to his time at Marseille, but has wasted little time in making his mark.

His mental resilience, he says, has always been his greatest asset, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.

“Not everything can go the right way, sometimes negative things happen, but it is precisely in those moments that you learn and grow stronger,” he said. “Self-belief has always been part of my character, and with time and experience it has grown. That is something I want to transmit here at Milan.”

Rabiot: ‘Modric’s stamina surprised me!’

It is Modric, though, who has perhaps impressed Rabiot most since his arrival.

The Croatian legend, now 40, continues to defy the laws of time, and his new teammate have noticed.

“His quality we already knew,” Rabiot said. “What surprised me was his ability to run for ninety minutes, up and down, at forty years old. That is not something you take for granted, he has an extraordinary physique.”

He also highlighted the importance of leadership figures in the dressing room, naming Maignan and recent arrival Fullkrug alongside Modric as players who set the tone for the group.

On Allegri’s influence, Rabiot was equally warm. “With him there is the ambition to do well, to give everything, to train at one hundred percent and to play every match as if it were the last.”

He also credited the manager for creating a calm, focused environment, one in which younger players are thriving.

“He gives tranquillity to the group, he lets us do things properly, without rush, without nerves. The attitude of the younger players is impeccable, and that is also down to the manager.”

Rabiot’s personal goals are characteristically ambitious. He wants to leave his mark on every club he represents, something he achieved at PSG and Juventus, and Milan is next on that list.

“I want to write my name in the history of this club,” he said plainly, before adding that the World Cup remains the ultimate prize. “Winning it is the most beautiful objective in a footballer’s career.”

Chelsea goalkeeper Mike Penders has done quite well at Strasbourg on loan this season, and he has attracted the attention of multiple Premier League clubs.

According to a report from TeamTalk, Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly made enquiries for the 20-year-old Belgian goalkeeper, but Chelsea have turned them down. They have no plans to let the 20-year-old leave the club anytime soon.

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Chelsea plan for Mike Penders

They are hoping to give him the starting spot next season. Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen have failed to convince the manager with their displays, and Chelsea believes the 20-year-old could be the ideal option in goal next season. Chelsea signed Penders for £17 million in 2024.

Meanwhile, Tottenham also need a goalkeeper. Guglielmo Vicario has been quite poor, and the Italian has been linked with a move away from the club. He could be sold in the summer, and the north London club will have to replace him properly. The 20-year-old Belgian is clearly a talented player with a big future, and he has shown his quality in France. He could prove to be a super long-term acquisition, but Chelsea are in no mood to sanction his departure.

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Penders is a man in demand

Along with Tottenham, Newcastle United are keen on the Chelsea goalkeeper as well. It will be interesting to see whether they are prepared to test the Blues’ resolve with an offer in the summer.

Penders wants to prove himself in the Premier League, and the opportunity to play regularly with Chelsea will be exciting for him. He is unlikely to force an exit from the club anytime soon. It will be very difficult for clubs like Tottenham and Newcastle to secure his signature.

It would be ideal for them to move on to other targets now.

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Manchester United are looking to add more quality on the flanks, and they have identified Yan Diomande as a summer target.

The 19-year-old has done exceptionally well for RB Leipzig, and Manchester United have scouted him several times this season. They could look to make a move in the summer, and it remains to be seen whether they can win the race for his signature.

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Where will Yan Diomande end up?

The player has also been linked with Liverpool. It will be interesting to see where he ends up. The Ivorian will want to compete at a high-level and the opportunity to move to the Premier League will be hard for him. Manchester United are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and it could provide him with the opportunity to fight for major trophies.

Fabrizio Romano has revealed on YouTube: “The plan of Man Utd is to add one or maybe two midfielders. I see that Man Utd will be very busy with midfielders.

“It’s not finished there, there is more to do in this summer transfer window. Man Utd have been following left-wingers for some time. When Ruben Amorim was the manager, they were in the mix for Antoine Semenyo, but Manchester City was his favoured destination.

“Don’t forget about a player I’ve been telling you about, Yan Diomande. He’s doing fantastic at Leipzig, and my understanding is that United in January sent their scouts several times to follow Diomande. He’s being monitored for sure, but let’s see if there’s going to be more.”

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Can Man United sign Diomande?

Manchester United are currently better placed than Liverpool to secure Champions League qualification for the upcoming season. That could give them an edge in the transfer race. However, Diomande is an admitted Liverpool fan, and it will be interesting to see whether the Reds can get the deal done.

Whoever signs the 19-year-old attacker could have a future star on their hands. Diomande has 17 goal contributions in all competitions this season.

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Throughout the 2025–26 season, Kylian Mbappé has established as the team’s most decisive player. After netting 38 goals, he has consolidated his place as the team’s top scorer, proving crucial against world-class opponents. However, the Frenchman has suffered an injury to his left knee that has created significant uncertainty. In response, Real Madrid legend Luis Figo decided to offer advice to the 27-year-old star on his recovery.

After missing the game against CD Osasuna, Mbappé was diagnosed with a sprained left knee. However, he is reportedly suffering from a partial tear of the posterior cruciate ligament, which could keep him out longer than expected. Despite these reports, Los Blancos remain optimistic about his return, expecting him to be back for the second leg against Manchester City. In light of this, Luis Figo decided to give Mbappé some advice on his recovery.

“Mbappé’s injury is really a matter of seeing, on a personal level, what the player truly feels. Whether he can take the risk or not, and if by taking that risk he might suffer worse consequences… In my case, on some occasions, I pushed myself and it didn’t go so well, but it was always because I wanted to be present on the pitch… Afterwards, those sacrifices take their toll,” Figo said, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

Following Rodrygo’s season-ending ACL and meniscus injury, fans have been urging caution in managing Mbappé’s health, a concern reinforced by Figo’s words. Nevertheless, coach Álvaro Arbeloa offered a positive update, raising hope for a mid-March return. However, this optimism also brings concerns about a potential relapse that could sideline him of the 2026 World Cup and the next season.

Real Madrid face serious doubts as injuries hit several star players

Unlike previous seasons, Los Blancos have suffered several injuries to key players such as Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão and now Rodrygo Goes. Far from ACL injuries being an isolated incident, Thibaut Courtois and David Alaba have also suffered this injury in recent years. In addition, Real Madrid are dealing with constant player injuries, generating significant doubts among fans regarding the club’s medical services.

Seeking to distance all criticism and rumors, coach Álvaro Arbeloa explained that the decision to have a second opinion on the injuries of Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé came from the club itself. With this, he rules out any lack of trust from the players in the medical staff. What still remains unaddressed, however, are the constant injuries to the team’s stars, which raise doubts regarding physical preparation and the workload of matches.

In recent days, there has been plenty of speculation surrounding the staging of the Finalissima. The clash between Argentina and Spain, headlined by Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal, is scheduled to be played on Friday, March 27 in Doha, Qatar, but conflicts in the region have raised doubts about whether the event can go ahead as planned.

Reports have suggested the possibility that the match could still be played on the scheduled date, during the March international break, but at a different venue. Moving the game away from a region currently facing serious security threats and taking it to another continent could be a solution, though the situation is far from straightforward.

“We are aware of the speculation surrounding the Finalissima, given the situation in the region. Discussions are ongoing with the local organizers, who have made a tremendous effort to ensure the match is a success,” UEFA said on Thursday in a statement sent to Europa Press.

“The final decision is expected to be made by the end of next week,” UEFA added. “At the moment, no alternative venue is being considered. We will not make further comments until a decision has been taken.”

Qatar want to host the Finalissima

UEFA’s statement came after a meeting involving all parties responsible for organizing the event. That was revealed by journalist Gaston Edul, who closely covers the Argentina national team. “No decision was made in today’s meeting. It will be decided next week,” he wrote on his X account.

“The Finalissima has not been canceled,” Edul added, before pointing out the main obstacle to moving the match to another venue. “Qatar do not want to give up the match easily because of the commercial agreement they already have in place. There have been no changes yet.”

In fact, Qatar had planned to host a series of matches during the March FIFA break, with the Finalissima as the centerpiece, along with friendlies involving Argentina, Spain, Serbia, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. Given the scale of the event, the Asian country was expecting to generate significant benefits from these matches, which is why they are reluctant to give up that opportunity now.

Potential venues rumored to host the Finalissima

While UEFA have clarified that there have been no official moves to relocate the Finalissima to another country, that has not stopped speculation from growing about possible destinations for the showdown between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal.

Marca reported earlier this week that two cities have emerged as the leading candidates to host the Finalissima: “The two most likely venues (not the only ones), if Qatar withdraws, are London, where the first and only edition of this tournament was played in 2022, and Miami, which will host World Cup matches.” Other possible alternatives could include Madrid and Rome.

Despite shining with Argentina in the 2022 World Cup, Ángel Di María decided to announce his retirement from the national team in 2024, continuing his career with Rosario Central. Nevertheless, he has remained very attentive to the development of his former teammates ahead of the 2026 edition. In this context, he issued strong criticism toward Atlético Madrid’s handling of their stars such as Julián Álvarez, exposing a major weakness.

“Atlético de Madrid are strange. From one moment to the next, they sideline their players and then they start to sort of disappear; it happens to most of the guys who were there. Very few manage to keep a run as starters, who never come out of the lineup… The beautiful thing about the national team is that when they put on the sky blue and white shirt, they become different players — they transform and play incredibly,” Angel Di Maria said, via Radio La Red.

Even though Diego Simeone is the legendary head coach of Los Colchoneros, very few Argentine players have managed to shine consistently at the club. In fact, they have had a series of players who failed to make a real impact: Luciano Vietto, Nicolás Gaitán, Eduardo Salvio, Cristian Ansaldi, Matías Kranevitter, among others. Along with them, the coach has still not managed to get the best version out of Nahuel Molina and Julián Álvarez.

Both Molina and Álvarez are heavily criticized players at Atlético Madrid. Although they usually shine with Argentina as regular starters, both are experiencing a rather irregular spell at the club, losing their status as undisputed starters to Marcos Llorente and Alexander Sørloth. As a result, criticism toward Simeone continues to grow, as only a few players truly seem to reach their full potential under him.

Julián Álvarez’s future could be far from Atletico Madrid

Julián Álvarez established himself as one of the best strikers in the world, shining at Manchester City. However, Erling Haaland’s undisputed starting role forced his departure from the club, leading to his €75 million move to Atlético Madrid. Although he was expected to consolidate himself as a cornerstone of the team, the Argentine is going through a rather difficult period and could look for a way out.

While Julian managed to shine by scoring 29 goals in his first season, he is not at his best. With his overall performance declining, coach Simeone has opted for Alexander Sørloth, causing him to lose his status as an undisputed starter. Given this situation, Barcelona are reportedly interested in him, as he may be motivated to leave. However, his departure would not be easy, as Diario Sport claims that he would be valued at around €150 million.

Lazio president Claudio Lotito’s latest phone call with a supporter went viral on social media on the eve of Tuesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final first leg against Atalanta, and his comments will have done little to ease tensions at a club already under considerable strain.

The tie ended 2-2, leaving everything to play for in the second leg.

Lotito spent ten minutes in a heated conversation that touched on everything from his coach’s squad management to a pointed swipe at former manager Marco Baroni.

On Sarri, the president was barely concealed in his frustration, with quotes courtesy of Tuttosport.

“The club has a name and a surname: Claudio Lotito. It doesn’t belong to Sarri. If he wants it, he can buy it,” he said.

“A manager must take the players available and make them play, if he’s a good coach.”

Lazio president Lotito: ‘Sarri must use his players’

He then rattled off a list of grievances.

Taty Castellanos, sold for €30 million, was barely used. Guendouzi, played out of position in a back three, grew so frustrated he forced his way out.

Noslin and Belahyane were blocked from leaving, yet neither features regularly.

“If you can’t create the right chemistry in the dressing room,” Lotito warned, “people end up telling you where to go.”

Baroni, Sarri’s predecessor, also came in for criticism, with Lotito describing him as “that idiot” and blaming him for last season’s Europa League elimination by Bodo/Glimt, claiming he had instructed the injured Castellanos to take a decisive penalty.

With the second leg still to come and Sarri’s position at the club increasingly precarious, the fallout from Lotito’s latest outburst looks set to rumble on for some time yet.

Former Italy defender Marco Materazzi reveals what Zinedine Zidane told him before giving him a headbutt in the 2006 World Cup Final between Italy and France: ‘If you want my shirt, I’ll give it to you afterwards.’

Ex-Italy and Inter defender Materazzi reflected on the famous incident involving Zidane during the 2006 World Cup Final, which led to a red card for the French icon in the last game of his career.

Zidane to Materazzi: ‘If you want my shirt…’

During his interview with Vivo Azzurro, Materazzi described the moments before Zidane’s headbutt and what the former French star told him before the incident.

“When Buffon made that save on Zidane’s header, Gattuso wanted to kill me because I hadn’t marked him,” Zidane said.

“In reality, I was marking Trezeguet, but in certain situations, it was better not to argue with Rino about what had happened.

“Shortly afterwards, in a similar situation, I held him [Zidane] by the shirt for a bit. I wanted to make sure he couldn’t jump. I apologised twice, then the third time he repeated ‘if you want my shirt, I’ll give it to you afterwards,’ I said something back to him…but nothing more than the kind of things we used to say to each other as kids when I played on the seafront in Bari.”

During the same interview, Materazzi revealed that Gattuso and Vincenzo Iaquinta were among the Italian players who seemed unwilling to take a penalty kick in the shootout.

The Azzurri, including Materazzi, scored five from five, while David Trezeguet missed a penalty for France, giving Italy their fourth World Cup title.

Materazzi played 41 games with Italy, scoring two goals, both during the 2006 World Cup.

Roma’s January signing, Donyell Malen, is the Serie A Player of the Month for February.

Dutch striker Malen was the best player in Serie A last month.

Malen wins Serie A player of the month – official statement

“The EA SPORTS FC Player Of The Month award for February has been assigned to Roma player Donyell Malen. The trophy will be presented during the pre-match of Roma vs Lecce, scheduled for Sunday 22nd March 2026 at 6.00pm at the “Olimpico” stadium in Rome,” Lega Serie A said in a statement on Friday.

“The fans’ votes online, combined with individual statistical data, determined Lautaro Martinez as the winner, beating champions like Berardi (Sassuolo), Carnesecchi (Atalanta), Dimarco (Inter), Kean (Fiorentina), McKennie (Juventus).

Lega Serie A CEO Luigi De Siervo said: “Donyell Malen’s impact on the Italian league has been simply perfect. The Dutch forward immediately adapted to Mister Gasperini’s tactical schemes, proving himself to be a relentless striker in front of goal, but also capable of linking up the team’s attacking play. Arriving in the winter transfer window, Malen took a few weeks to establish himself as a key player, immediately winning the award for best player of February with four goals in as many games and immediately proving himself worthy of Roma’s Champions League ambitions”.

Malen has become the second-best scorer in Europe’s top five leagues after Harry Kane since joining Roma on an initial loan deal from Aston Villa in mid-February.

Malen has scored six goals in his first seven Roma appearances in Serie A. Only Abel Balbo (seven) and Gabriel Omar Batistuta (nine) have managed more in the club’s history.

Malen is technically on loan from Aston Villa, but the Giallorossi have an option to buy to make his move permanent for €25m at the end of the season.

Roma’s option to buy becomes mandatory if they qualify for the Champions League or the Europa League this season.

The Giallorossi currently sit fourth in the Serie A table, three points above fifth-placed Como and four points above Juventus, who sit sixth.

Roma’s next Serie A match is against Daniele De Rossi’s Genoa at Marassi.

Yan Diomande has been linked with a move to the Premier League, and Liverpool is hoping to sign him.

According to Florian Plettenberg, Bayern Munich attacker Michael Olise was a target for the Premier League champions, but he’s unlikely to leave this summer. Therefore, Liverpool has decided to shift their focus towards the Ivorian attacker.

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Yan Diomande is in fine form

The 19-year-old has been exceptional for RB Leipzig and has all the attributes to become a future star. It has been confirmed that Liverpool are looking to secure his signature in the coming months, and talks have already ‘taken place’. It will be interesting to see if Liverpool comes forward with an official proposal to sign the player.

They have the finances to pay a premium for him, and the 19-year-old could be tempted to join them. Diomande has previously admitted that he is a Liverpool fan, and the opportunity to play in the Premier League will be an extra incentive.

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Liverpool could use Diomande

Liverpool needs an explosive wide player who can take on defenders and beat them in one-versus-one situations. They need more unpredictability in the final third. Diomande has 17 goal contributions this season.

Plettenberg claims that Liverpool has prioritised the signing of a ‘high-class’ winger in the summer. It remains to be seen whether they can wrap up a move for the 19-year-old.

Diomande is an elite prospect, and Liverpool would do well to secure his signature. He would be a super future investment for them, and he could develop into a star in the Premier League.

The attacker will cost around €100 million in the summer, and it remains to be seen whether Liverpool is prepared to pay up for him. Even though the asking price is quite high, Diomande might be able to justify the investment in the long term.

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Jonathan David has been linked with a move away from Juventus at the end of the season, and he has been tipped to move to the Premier League.

According to a report from TeamTalk, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are among the clubs that have held talks with intermediaries about a potential summer move. It will be interesting to see if they come forward with an offer to sign the player.

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Jonathan David needs a fresh start

The 26-year-old has not been at his best since moving to Italy, and he has just seven goals in 37 appearances for Juventus. He has previously proven himself in France, and there is no doubt that he could be a very useful acquisition for Manchester United and Tottenham. David has been hailed as an “excellent” player by Zinedine Zidane.

Manchester United need another quality striker to support Benjamin Sesko, and the Canadian International would be ideal. He will look to get his career back on track with regular football, and a fresh start in the Premier League would be ideal. On the other hand, Dominic Solanke has not been able to find the back of the net regularly, and Tottenham need to supplement him with a reliable striker. The Canadian International could be the ideal fit for them.

David has also been linked with Newcastle.

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David could be signed for a decent fee

Juventus signed him for free, and they are unlikely to demand a premium. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United or Tottenham can negotiate a reasonable deal for him. If he manages to regain his form and confidence, he could be an asset to both clubs.

The player is very much at the peak of his career, and he will look to get back to his best once again. David has 153 goals in his career, and he will look to make an impact in the Premier League. If a move goes through in the summer.

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Nottingham Forest managed to squeeze out a point away to title contenders Manchester City on Wednesday, with this incredible Morgan Gibbs-White goal cancelling out Antoine Semenyo’s opener, before Elliot Anderson cancelled out City’s second, scored by Rodri. An amazing piece of skill from the 26-year-old attacking midfielder, who was linked with City before they signed […]

The post Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White nets sublime back-heel goal in Manchester City draw (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White nets sublime back-heel goal in Manchester City draw (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

Arsenal handed their Premier League title charge a massive boost with a 1-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, as Bukayo Saka made the difference. With Manchester City failing to beat Nottingham Forest at home, the Gunners took the chance to extend their lead at the top to seven points. Saka marked his 300th appearance […]

The post Brighton 0-1 Arsenal: Saka marks milestone appearance in style to send leaders seven points clear appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Brighton 0-1 Arsenal: Saka marks milestone appearance in style to send leaders seven points clear appeared first on Soccer News.

Arne Slot suggested he was annoyed by questions over Liverpool’s approach in the wake of their last-gasp defeat to lowly Wolves. Andre netted deep in second-half stoppage time at Molineux to propel the Premier League’s bottom club to a 2-1 win. It marked the first time a team in the relegation zone has scored a […]

The post Slot annoyed by scrutiny over Liverpool´s approach appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Slot annoyed by scrutiny over Liverpool´s approach appeared first on Soccer News.

Knee injuries can often create as many questions as they do answers. At Real Madrid, uncertainty has become the dominant theme surrounding the fitness of star forward Kylian Mbappe. As the club navigates a demanding stretch of fixtures, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa has attempted to reassure supporters that progress is being made. Yet, behind the scenes, speculation continues to swirl around the forward’s recovery and the timing of his comeback.

The situation has only grown more intriguing in recent days, as Arbeloa publicly addressed Mbappe’s condition while reports hinted at a controversial timeline for his return. With Real Madrid preparing for key domestic and European matches, the striker’s recovery has quickly become one of the most closely watched storylines of the season. The France captain has been sidelined with a sprain in his left knee, an injury that has troubled him since December and recently forced him to miss several important matches.

What did Arbeloa say about Mbappe?

While the exact timeline for his return remains unclear, Arbeloa insists the situation is improving. Speaking at a press conference, the Spanish coach stressed that the player’s recovery is progressing positively. “Of course, I speak to him every day,” the manager said. “It’s under control, every day he’s better. I’ve said it’s a process where we’ll go day by day according to his feelings. Right now, it’s all good news.”

The 27-year-old star has already missed the Champions League playoff second leg against Benfica as well as a 1-0 La Liga defeat to Getafe at the Santiago Bernabeu. That loss left Los Blancos four points behind Barcelona in the league title race. Madrid now faces a demanding run of fixtures, including a league trip to Celta de Vigo and a crucial Champions League two-leg clash with Manchester City.

Despite the pressure, Arbeloa reiterated that the club is carefully managing Mbappe’s recovery. “We’re keeping a close eye on what’s happening to him, how he’s doing. It’s a process we’ll take day by day, monitoring how he’s feeling. He’s getting better every day.”

The controversial return timeline causing inside rift

While Arbeloa remains publicly optimistic, the debate surrounding Mbappe’s recovery intensified after reports emerged about when Real Madrid hopes the forward could return. According to Diario AS, the club believes Mbappe could recover in time for the second leg of their Champions League round-of-16 clash against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.

However, that timeline has reportedly sparked disagreement. The player’s entourage is said to be far more cautious about the injury, believing the situation could be more serious than initially described. The concern revolves around the condition of the posterior cruciate ligament in the player’s knee, which some sources claim is under significant strain.

Spanish journalist Anton Meana explained the issue in stark terms. “The player’s left posterior cruciate ligament is at its limit,” he told Cadena SER. “We are going to call it a sprain because that is what the medical report says, but the injury is really significant.”

Because of this, Mbappe’s camp is reportedly unwilling to accept Real Madrid’s estimated recovery timeline, fearing that rushing the striker back could worsen the injury. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, protecting the long-term health of the France captain is also a major priority for his entourage.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have struggled to find real consistency. While they shine offensively thanks to Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr., they have not managed to find balance in midfield. Facing these issues, Los Blancos have reportedly set their sights on Vitinha as a marquee reinforcement. However, the PSG star decided to shut down all rumors of his departure at the root, leaving a blunt statement.

“It would be foolish for me to leave. I don’t think it would be the best thing for me. I feel very good here at PSG! I feel that people appreciate me a lot and that I have earned that affection. I love being here; my family does too. The group is fantastic and the head coach (Luis Enrique) is incredible,” Vitinha said, via Canal 11.

Having arrived for just €40 million in 2022, he established himself as one of the most impactful signings in the history of the French club. Emerging as one of the best players in the world, Vitinha has become a cornerstone of PSG and stands as one of the highest-paid players on the roster, with a contract until 2029. Furthermore, he is one of Luis Enrique’s untouchable players, which makes the idea of his move to Real Madrid nonsensical.

Despite Vitinha’s rejection, Los Blancos remain eager to strengthen their midfield, making a summer 2026 signing imminent. They could prioritize bringing back Nico Paz, using the €9 million buy-back clause, alongside Kees Smith, who stands out at AZ Alkmaar. With this, they will not only reduces the transfer expenditure but also results in considerable salary savings compared to pursuing the Portuguese player.

Real Madrid could adjust their midfield strategy next season

Ahead of next season, Real Madrid do not seem to have a clear idea of who their head coach will be. Following the poor results under Álvaro Arbeloa, they have reportedly turned their attention to other candidates, with Massimiliano Allegri emerging as one of the most mentioned. Despite this uncertainty, Los Blancos could still push for a structural change in midfield, with the possible arrival of Nico Paz seen as a key organizing presence.

Los Blancos have key players in midfield such as Aurelien Tchouameni, Federico Valverde, and Jude Bellingham. Despite this, they have not achieved a notable balance, so they could opt for an adjustment in the formation with four midfielders, where Paz would join the others near the base of the play. With this, Vitinha’s non-arrival might not be detrimental, as they could make the most of their stars and bet on Mbappe and Vinicius as the only attacking forwards.

Roma star Paulo Dybala once again felt discomfort in his knee during today’s training session, and according to Sky Sport, he’ll miss Sunday’s game against Genoa.

Roma striker Dybala will miss Sunday’s Serie A match against Genoa as the Argentine didn’t complete today’s training session due to knee problems.

Dybala to miss Genoa vs. Roma

As reported by Il Tempo reporter Filippo Biafora on X, the Argentine was forced to end the workout after just a few minutes because he felt pain in his knee again.

The 32-year-old was available against Juventus on Sunday, but spent the whole game against his former club on the bench.

He had missed the previous four league games due to knee problems. Dybala’s last competitive appearance was on January 25, 2026.

As reported by Sky Sport Italia, this latest setback will force Dybala to miss Sunday’s away game against Roma, where Daniele De Rossi is in charge.

Ferguson to undergo second ankle surgery?

Matias Soulé, Mario Hermoso and Evan Ferguson will also miss the next Serie A match, and the latter has even flown to Brighton for a specialist visit on his injured ankle.

According to Sky, Ferguson, who already had ankle surgery in March 2024, may need to undergo another operation.

Como ambassador Raphael Varane says that his former Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has been the most influential person across his career, and has revealed what Zizou told him to do during training sessions as a youngster. 

Varane spoke in-depth in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport on Thursday, 18 months after he retired at Como. 

• Read more: Varane breaks silence 18 months after shock Como retirement: ‘Difficult journey’

The four-time Champions League winner had joined Cesc Fabregas’s side on a free transfer following the end of his Manchester United tenure in the summer of 2024, but picked up a serious injury to his knee just 23 minutes into his first competitive appearance with the club in the first round of the Coppa Italia that same summer. 

Varane was then left off Como’s Serie A squad list for the 2024-25 campaign and ultimately announced his retirement, less than two months after he had originally joined the club. 

Despite retiring at the age of 31, Varane decided to stay on with Como and is currently serving as an ambassador, sits on the club’s development board and has a hands-on role overseeing the management of the youth sector. 

What Zidane told Varane at Real Madrid

During his own teenage years, Varane left his boyhood club Lens in order to join Real Madrid, where he would go on to play under the likes of Jose Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti and Zidane.  

“When I moved to Real Madrid from Lens, everything was bigger, newer, different. More than anything, the perception of time is different. You don’t play for a month and it feels like a year,” Varane told La Gazzetta dello Sport. 

“You have to stay focused, stay on track, be resilient and train in the same way that you play.” 

Varane also revealed which individual had the biggest impact on his career: “Zidane,” he said. 

“He advised me to focus on one specific thing during each session. A long ball, a different touch, a new move. A small thing, not lots of things, not everything. Add things and improve day by day.”

Click here to read the full interview with Varane

Marco Carnesecchi has reportedly reached a verbal agreement to extend his contract with Atalanta.

Matteo Moretto reports that Italy international Carnesecchi will soon sign a contract extension with Atalanta.

Carnesecchi ready to sign Atalanta contract extension

“Atalanta will extend his contract with a pay rise; there’s already a verbal agreement, and only the signature is missing,” Moretto said on YouTube.

Carnesecchi’s current deal in Bergamo runs out in June 2028.

The 25-year-old goalkeeper has kept14 clean sheets in 38 appearances across all competitions this season, conceding 38 goals.

He has been linked to Inter and Juventus, while Manchester United attempted to sign him last summer.

Football Italia exclusively reported in June that the Red Devils proposed €40m to sign the Italian goalkeeper, but Atalanta turned down the offer.

Inter and Juventus will indeed look for a new starting goalkeeper in 2026-27, but the Nerazzurri’s main target seems to be another Italy international, Guglielmo Vicario, who is willing to return to Serie A from Tottenham.

According to Moretto, Inter and Vicario’s representative will be involved in a new round of talks this month.

Carnesecchi was part of the Italy squad in October and November under new coach Gennaro Gattuso, but has yet to make his senior Azzurri debut.

Douglas Luiz has finally returned to playing regular top-flight football during his loan spell with Aston Villa, but how much will it cost the Premier League outfit to sign the Brazilian on a permanent transfer from Juventus? 

How much will Aston Villa have to pay Juventus to sign Douglas Luiz permanently?

It has been a strange few years for Douglas Luiz, who earned rave reviews towards the end of his first stint with Villa, which began in 2019 and ended in 2024. His performances, particularly during the 2023-24 season, earned him a big-money move away from Villa, joining Juventus in a deal worth €50m. 

Despite his promising Premier League performances, Douglas Luiz failed to hit the ground running in Serie A, and soon became somewhat of an outcast in the Bianconeri first-team. In the end, he made just 19 Serie A appearances during his first season in Italy, and only three of those came as a starter. 

The Old Lady decided to cut their losses during the most recent summer transfer window, sending Douglas Luiz on a season-long loan deal to Nottingham Forest with a conditional obligation to buy. 

Still, largely due to injuries, Douglas Luiz struggled to make an impact at the City Ground and was limited to just eight league appearances during the first half of the 2025-26 season. 

His loan deal was terminated in January, which facilitated a return to Aston Villa, this time on loan with an option to buy. 

Since then, Douglas Luiz has gone on to make six consecutive starts and is looking increasingly settled back in his familiar environment at Villa Park. He added his first league goal of the season with his second-minute strike in an eventual 4-1 loss against Chelsea in the Premier League on Wednesday night. 

If Aston Villa were to activate their option to buy clause this season, Juventus would receive a €25m fee, which is payable over three financial years. The Bianconeri could also claim bonuses of up to €3.5m, the club confirmed in January.

Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, who has been linked with Juventus and Inter, reportedly wants to stay at Anfield until the end of his contract in 2027, while the Nerazzurri are preparing for a new round of talks for Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario.

Fabrizio Romano and Matteo Moretto report the latest updates on two Premier League goalkeepers, Alisson and Vicario, who have been linked with a return to Serie A.

Latest Alisson transfer updates

Both Inter and Juventus are looking for a goalkeeper for next season, Romano confirmed, but Alisson wants to stay at Liverpool for another season.

The Brazilian’s contract at Anfield expires in June 2027, and the player is planning to remain at the club for one more year.

Nevertheless, his future at the club remains uncertain, as it’s unclear whether Liverpool will put him on the market at the end of the current campaign. The Reds will decide in this regard only in the coming months.

Vicario eyes Serie A return

Vicario, on the other hand, would be glad to return to Serie A, and Inter are already in talks with the Tottenham goalkeeper.

Moretto reported that Inter are currently the ‘closest team’ as negotiations with the goalkeeper’s entourage have already begun and will continue in March with a new round of talks between the two parties.

Liverpool already have a deal in place to sign Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes in the summer, but the talented young defender is set to arrive recovering from a serious injury.

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According to L’Equipe, it could even be that Jacquet misses the start of Liverpool’s preparations for the new season, as he could be about for six months as a worst-case scenario.

The Athletic reported on Liverpool pursuing the Frenchman in January, though he’s remained with Rennes for the rest of this season.

Now, however, it’s looking doubtful if Jacquet will feature for the Ligue 1 club again before the campaign is done.

What kind of injury does Jeremy Jacquet have?

As previously also reported by L’Equipe, Jacquet has a shoulder injury that has required surgery.

This now means the 20-year-old could be out for anywhere between four and six months, so it’s highly unlikely he’ll be back in time for pre-season with Liverpool.

It may even be that LFC fans will have to wait until September to see Jacquet making his debut for the club, which is far from ideal as they really needed this signing of a top young centre-back.

Jeremy Jacquet has a big role to play for Liverpool

Even if Jacquet is relatively inexperienced at the highest level, he’s shown tremendous potential during his time at Rennes so far.

This prompted Liverpool to make a move for him in January, and he was also strongly linked with Chelsea by Give Me Sport and others.

It’s clear that Liverpool are bringing in a special talent for the future, but he’d also have a role to play straight away after a difficult season defensively for Arne Slot’s side.

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Virgil van Dijk is perhaps starting to show his age, and the Reds have conceded a worryingly high 39 Premier League goals in 29 games so far.

On top of that, Ibrahima Konate is coming towards the end of his contract, so Jacquet could be immediately required to step into Slot’s XI to replace his fellow Frenchman.

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Liverpool are reportedly keen on a potential transfer move for Eintracht Frankfurt left-back Nathaniel Brown this summer.

This comes after a slightly underwhelming first season from Milos Kerkez, who joined from Bournemouth last year after impressing with the Cherries.

It’s proven harder for Kerkez to look as convincing at Liverpool, however, who have generally had a disappointing season, with new signings all slightly struggling to adapt and with the team not at a real risk of missing out on Champions League qualification.

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According to Fichajes, this has Liverpool looking closely at Brown as a potential summer target, with the Germany international possibly set to be available for around €60m.

Nathaniel Brown transfer: Liverpool keen on left-back opportunity

This is not the first time LFC have been linked with Brown, and it could be a fierce contest for the 22-year-old this summer.

As we’ve previously reported, Brown is also understood to be a target for Arsenal and Manchester United, who could perhaps also benefit from strengthening in that position.

Liverpool might do well to give Kerkez a bit more time, but Arsenal arguably look in need of making changes in that area after an injury-hit season for Riccardo Calafiori, while Myles Lewis-Skelly has fallen completely out of favour.

Man Utd, meanwhile, should probably be thinking about an upgrade on the ageing and injury-prone Luke Shaw, while Patrick Dorgu has tended to play further forward more in recent times.

Liverpool to raid Eintracht Frankfurt again?

Liverpool signed Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt last summer, in what has been one of their more successful signings.

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It could be that the Reds will use that relationship to agree a deal for Brown as well, with Fichajes suggesting the opportunity will be there as long as clubs pay the right price.

Even if Brown doesn’t replace Kerkez, this generally looks like a smart deal to bolster Arne Slot’s squad as Andrew Robertson has fallen out of favour this season and might need replacing as a rotation option.

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Gareth Bale has named Carlo Ancelotti as the manager who would be ideal for Manchester United.

The Red Devils are looking for a permanent manager after sacking Ruben Amorim earlier this year.

Atlhough Michael Carrick has since joined the club as interim boss but he is still not certain to get the job permanently despite his impressive performances.

The decision to appoint a new manager will be taken at the end of the season when United have carefully assessed all their options.

Gareth Bale names Ancelotti as ideal choice for Man United

Speaking recently on The Overlap, Bale, who enjoyed massive Champions League success under the Italian tactician at the Bernabeu, explained exactly why Ancelotti’s profile is exactly what a club of United’s stature needs to navigate the intense pressure of the Premier League.

‘I think he would do great,’ Bale said.

‘He’s not just the manager, he is a coach as well. (But) He can do the tactical stuff.

‘When he was the head coach in his second spell (at Real Madrid), he did a lot more tactically then than we did the first time, but I think we had a better team the first time. Wherever Carlo goes, I think he would do an amazing job, just because he gets everyone on board.

‘If you go into a big club, you’ve got good players, whether they’re performing at the time or not. Like Man United, they have been the last few weeks, but, prior to that, they hadn’t been performing, but they’ve got good players. He’ll get the best out of players and will just simplify things, which you see now with Michael Carrick.

‘He’s simplifying a lot of things that the previous manager was doing, and you’re getting results. So that’s Carlo’s genius, getting the best out of the players and just making it simple.’

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Italian manager is highly respected for his achievements

If the INEOS sporting department is looking for a guaranteed, proven winner, Ancelotti’s resume is essentially unmatched in the history of the sport.

Currently in charge of the Brazil national team after leaving Real Madrid at the end of the 2024/25 campaign, Ancelotti’s trophy cabinet speaks for itself.

He is the only manager in history to have won domestic league titles in all five of Europe’s top leagues (Premier League with Chelsea, La Liga with Real Madrid, Serie A with AC Milan, Bundesliga with Bayern Munich, and Ligue 1 with PSG).

He holds the all-time record for the most UEFA Champions League titles won by a manager.

Having managed the biggest, most demanding dressing rooms in world football, the intense media scrutiny and pressure cooker environment of Old Trafford wouldn’t faze him in the slightest.

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Galatasaray President Dursun Ozbek confirms that Victor Osimhen’s contract does not include a release clause, amid rumours of an interest from Juventus.

Osimhen’s agreement with Galatasaray does not include a release clause which would allow any club to sign the Nigerian for a pre-arranged fee, the Turkish club’s president Dursun Ozbek told Fanatik.

‘No release clause in Osimhen’s contract’

“There is no release clause in Osimhen’s contract. He is an extremely successful footballer who will serve Galatasaray for many years,” Ozbek said.

“Perhaps the amount was considered high on the day we signed him, but today the prevailing view in football circles is that the transfer fee was low and the player’s value is much higher.”

Juventus are reportedly among the clubs following Osimhen and already tried to sign the Nigeria international two years ago, before his transfer to Galatasaray.

According to Italian sources, however, there’s a clause that prevents Osimhen from joining a Serie A club until September 2027.

Galatasaray first signed Osimhen on loan in 2024 and then made his move permanent for €75m the following year.

The former Napoli star has scored 53 goals in 65 appearances with Galatasaray.

During his four-year spell at Napoli, Osimhen scored 76 goals in 133 games, winning the Scudetto in 2022-23 as Serie A’s top scorer.

Osimhen’s contract with Galatasaray expires in June 2029.

Italy World Cup winner Marco Materazzi says his ex-Azzurri teammate Gennaro Gattuso will ‘fight tooth and nail’ for World Cup qualification: ‘He’s taken on the most difficult role.’

Italy host Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semifinal on March 26, with the potential final on March 31 against either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Materazzi: Gattuso must make sure Italy players ‘stay calm’

“What I know is that Rino (Gattuso) will fight tooth and nail to get us to the World Cup,” Materazzi told Vivo Azzurro.

“He’s taken on the most difficult role he could have taken; direct qualification was practically compromised. He’s trying to pass on his enthusiasm to the team. We won’t face fantastic teams, but they’ll be tough ones, and we have to make sure the players stay calm. We’ll have to push hard. I’m convinced he’s working with the utmost professionalism, and that’s what’s most important for these difficult matches.”

Materazzi and Gattuso won the World Cup with the Azzurri in 2006, and Italy have only played in the World Cup again twice since, in 2010 and 2014.

That legendary Azzurri team in 2006 beat France on penalties.

“By the time it went to penalties, there were people like Rino (Gattuso) who had already taken off their boots,” Materazzi recalled, smiling.

“Iaquinta was wandering around at a distance. Fabio (Cannavaro) had said he would take the sixth, but in my opinion, Buffon would have taken it before him. So there weren’t many of us left. I’ve always taken penalties and felt confident, even though I have this obsession that if you score during the match, you’ll miss the penalty afterwards. But when you get to that point, you can’t back out.”

Materazzi was not a designated starter at the World Cup, but broke into the XI after an injury to Alessandro Nesta.

“In terms of elegance and tactical intelligence, Nesta was the best along with Maldini. Playing next to him, I felt a bit intimidated,” Materazzi admitted.

“I can’t say the same about Cannavaro, because I felt closer to him, and we looked like two street kids playing in the park. Today’s defenders have changed, but football has changed too. In our days, the first thing was to mark and not concede goals; everyone did their job. Today, a defender almost has to know how to handle the ball with his feet first and then focus on marking so as not to lose his man.”

Former Manchester United and England midfielder Paul Scholes has deleted a story from his Instagram profile criticising Red Devils head coach Michael Carrick but praising Italy international Sandro Tonali. 

The Class of 92 graduate took to Instagram to share his thoughts after Manchester United’s 2-1 defeat by Tonali’s Newcastle in the Premier League on Wednesday evening, criticising his former teammate Carrick, who has been placed in charge on an interim basis until the end of the season. 

Despite an upturn in United’s results since Carrick took over, Scholes said that they “have been crap last four games,” and also gave a shout-out to Newcastle midfielder Tonali. The Instagram story was posted on Wednesday evening and had been removed from Scholes’s profile by midday on Thursday. 

Scholes continues to praise Tonali

Tonali has previously cited Tonali as being the best midfielder in the Premier League. 

Speaking on The Overlap in October, Scholes said: “I love Tonali at Newcastle. Oh, he can run. (Bruno) Guimarães as well. I’d probably choose Tonali at this point.” 

When asked to clarify if he meant that Tonali is currently the best midfielder in the Premier League, he replied: “Yeah. Why? Are you going to say Declan Rice? 

“Yes. I think he’s better than Declan Rice. I really like Declan Rice, don’t get me wrong. I think he’s got everything, I just think too many times he takes too many touches of the ball. I think he tries to look a little bit more stylish than he needs to. 

“I think his physical attributes are brilliant, I think he can be a box-to-box, he can link, I think he can score goals, I just don’t think he does it enough. I prefer Tonali. Is that okay?”

• Read more: Tonali sends message to Pickford after wonder save: ‘One of the best shots of my life’

Dusan Vlahovic is closing in on a return to action after over three months on the treatment table, but what does his presence in the squad mean for Juventus’s summer signing Jonathan David? 

Vlahovic nears Juventus return: Where does David fit in?

Vlahovic has been out of action with an adductor injury he suffered during Juventus’s 2-1 win over Cagliari on November 29, an issue which required surgery to fix.

He had an operation in London, has been working on his rehabilitation since then and as of Wednesday, has returned to training with the first-team group at Continassa, albeit partially. 

Reports earlier this week suggest that the Serbian, who is into the final year of his contract with the Old Lady, could potentially be called up to the matchday squad to face Pisa in Serie A on Saturday. 

In Vlahovic’s absence, and with Arkadiusz Milik also out long term, Juventus have been left without a ‘traditional’ no.9 in their attacking ranks: Summer signings David and Lois Openda have both played there previously, but neither have particularly convinced when starting alone at centre-forward in Serie A. 

The Bianconeri has considered bringing in a new striker during the January transfer window given Vlahovic’s injury and his contract situation, but a move for Fenerbahce’s Youssef En-Nesyri fell through towards the end of the January transfer window, 

Vlahovic will soon be able to lend Juventus a hand on the pitch, and there have been reports that talks over a potential contract extension are progressing as well. 

Vlahovic’s return does not spell the end of David’s days in the Bianconeri attack, though, as reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport suggest that Luciano Spalletti is keen to play both attackers in the same line-up, with the Serbian leading the line and the Canadian playing off him a second striker or no.10 role. 

This would still allow Juve to field Kenan Yildiz and either Francisco Conceicao or Weston McKennie out wide as well. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Pierre Kalulu’s high-level performances this season have ‘not gone unnoticed’ in the Premier League, as Liverpool and Manchester United will ‘try to tempt Juventus’ in the summer.

Juventus defender Kalulu has attracted interest from Premier League sides Liverpool and Manchester United, according to Gazzetta.

Liverpool and Manchester United ‘will tempt Juventus’ for Kalulu

‘Kalulu’s record-breaking season has not gone unnoticed in the Premier League; Manchester United and Liverpool will try to tempt Juventus’, wrote Juventus reporter Filippo Cornacchia on today’s Gazzetta.

Kalulu has been a regular starter for Juventus under both Igor Tudor and Luciano Spalletti.

He spent the first part of the season playing mostly as a right wing-back, but under Spalletti, the Frenchman has played as a centre-back in a three-man defence or right-back in a four-man backline.

A former Milan defender, Kalulu has given his contribution on both ends, scoring twice and providing six assists in 38 appearances across all competitions.

The 25-year-old signed a new contract until 2029 in July last year.

Juventus, on the other hand, have set their sights on the Premier League for midfield reinforcement next summer as Sandro Tonali and Bernardo Silva are reported to be among their main targets for 2026-27.

Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder João Gomes has emerged as a sought-after figure ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window, with both Manchester United and Napoli reportedly monitoring his situation closely.

According to journalist Nicolò Schira, the Brazilian international is open to leaving Wolves at the end of the season as interest from across Europe begins to intensify.

For Man United, Gomes represents the type of midfielder that could play a pivotal role in their long-term rebuild.

With the club entering a new era under the guidance of INEOS and interim manager Michael Carrick, strengthening the centre of the pitch has become one of the most pressing priorities.

Gomes has been a huge hit at Wolves

Despite Wolves enduring a challenging 2025/26 campaign near the bottom of the Premier League table, Gomes has been one of the team’s most consistent performers.

Since arriving from Flamengo, the 25-year-old has earned a reputation as an aggressive ball-winner and tireless competitor.

Nicknamed “The Pitbull” during his time in Brazil, Gomes has carried that same intensity into English football.

His relentless pressing, strong tackling, and ability to recover possession quickly have made him a crucial component of Wolves’ midfield.

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Man United see Gomes as the ideal midfield addition

Man United’s midfield is widely expected to undergo changes this summer. Casemiro remains a respected figure at Old Trafford but is no longer able to cover the same ground he once did during his peak years.

Meanwhile, other midfield additions have struggled to consistently impose themselves in the Premier League.

Gomes offers a different profile. His energy, defensive awareness, and physical presence could provide the stability United have lacked in recent seasons.

Such a signing could also benefit young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. With a dedicated defensive anchor behind him, Mainoo would likely be able to play with greater freedom.

Napoli are also believed to be exploring a move. The Serie A side are seeking midfield reinforcements as they look to maintain competitiveness both domestically and in European competition.

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Former West Ham United forward Michail Antonio has hit out at the club’s former manager Graham Potter for the way he handled his exit.

Antonio is something of a Hammers legend, but couldn’t break back into the team after sustaining a lengthy injury from a serious car accident.

The former Jamaica international ended up leaving West Ham at the end of his contract in summer 2025 as he continued his comeback from a broken leg.

Still, looking back at the saga now, Antonio has admitted he feels saddened by not being given the chance to say a proper goodbye to the fans at the London Stadium.

Michail Antonio’s dig at Graham Potter

Potter was not exactly Mr Popular as West Ham manager, and that’s largely down to results and performances on the pitch.

Still, judging from what Antonio has said, it also seems clear that Potter perhaps wasn’t the right man for the club with the way he handled things away from the pitch either.

Speaking to BBC Sport, the 35-year-old said he had “so much love” for West Ham, but found the way his departure was handled a “hard pill to take”.

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Antonio recently moved to Qatar to join Al Sailiya and has admitted that English clubs were unsure about signing him.

As per the BBC Sport’s report, Antonio held talks with both Brentford and Leicester City but neither move materialised.

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Liverpool could face one of the most significant decisions of their modern era this summer as uncertainty grows around the future of Mohamed Salah.

According to Football Insider, the club may be open to letting the Egyptian superstar depart if a substantial offer arrives from the Saudi Pro League.

Salah, who has been the face of Liverpool’s attacking dominance for nearly a decade, remains one of the most iconic figures in the club’s recent history.

However, with the forward approaching the final year of his contract and entering the latter stages of his career, Liverpool’s leadership must decide whether to extend his stay or begin planning for life after their legendary No. 11.

Salah has been a legendary figure for Liverpool

Since arriving from AS Roma in 2017, Salah has rewritten Liverpool’s modern record books.

His debut season produced a remarkable 44 goals in all competitions, setting a new benchmark for a 38-game Premier League campaign and establishing him as one of the world’s elite attackers.

Over the following years, he played a central role in Liverpool’s most successful period of the modern era.

Salah helped deliver the Champions League in 2019 and the club’s long-awaited Premier League title in 2020, while consistently finishing among the league’s top scorers.

Yet the 2025/26 campaign has proven more difficult. While still capable of moments of brilliance, Salah has not consistently matched the extraordinary standards he set earlier in his career.

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Saudi Pro League could be Salah’s next destination

The Saudi Pro League has pursued Salah for several years. In 2023, Al-Ittihad famously had a reported £150 million offer rejected by Liverpool late in the transfer window.

The Saudi clubs’ financial power has only grown since then, and fresh interest is expected if Salah becomes available.

With only 12 months remaining on his contract this summer, Liverpool’s sporting department are likely to make the decision to let Salah leave the club.

Keeping Salah would preserve a proven match-winner and dressing-room leader, but it also risks losing him for nothing in 2027.

Selling now could generate significant funds while reducing one of the club’s highest wages.

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The Derby della Madonnina between Milan and Inter in Serie A is fast approaching, and the league have confirmed that Daniele Doveri will be the man with the whistle in San Siro on Sunday evening. 

Doveri confirmed as referee for Milan vs. Inter 

Milan will be the home side for Sunday’s derby in San Siro. The Rossoneri are currently in second place, 10 points behind the table-topping Nerazzurri after 27 matches of the 2025-26 campaign. 

Referee Doveri will take charge of Sunday’s derby. The 48-year-old has taken charge of 14 matches in Italy so far this season: 13 in Serie A and one in Serie B. 

Doveri has refereed Milan twice so far this season: Once for the 3-0 win over Udinese in September and once for the 1-1 draw with Atalanta in October. Matteo Gabbia, Luka Modric and Santiago Gimenez were shown yellow cards in the 1-1 draw with La Dea. 

Doveri has taken charge of three matches involving Inter so far this season: For their 2-1 win away against Hellas Verona in November, their 2-1 win away against Genoa in December and most recently, the 2-2 draw with Napoli in January. 

Doveri showed yellow cards to Yann Bisseck against Verona, and to Manuel Akanji, Bisseck again and Nicolo Barella against Genoa. 

This will not be Doveri’s first Derby della Madonnina either: He has taken charge of four in his career to date: The 2-0 win for Inter in 2019, the 3-0 Nerazzurri victory in 2021, the 1-1 draw later that same year and Milan’s 3-0 win over Inter in the second leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final last season. 

Doveri has refereed Milan 34 times, resulting in 19 wins, nine draws and six defeats for the Rossoneri. He has taken charge of 39 Inter matches, resulting in 16 wins, 10 draws and 13 losses.

Scotland international Billy Gilmour will return to the Napoli XI for the first time since the end of October against Torino, while André-Frank Zambo Anguissa and Kevin De Bruyne could be back in the squad and available on the bench.

Napoli host Torino at the Stadio Maradona tomorrow, and the Partenopei coach, Antonio Conte, is still forced to cope without several players, especially in central midfield.

Gilmour to start in Napoli vs. Torino

Scotland international Gilmour has made two substitute appearances since returning from a groin injury that required surgery at the end of November.

Tomorrow, he’ll be the only fit central midfielder available alongside Eljif Elmas as Napoli are still without Scott McTominay and Stanislav Lobotka.

Gilmour hasn’t started a Serie A match since October 28,  away at Lecce. He returned in mid-February in a home Serie A match against Roma, then remained on the bench against Atalanta and was introduced again as a substitute against Verona.

According to Gazzetta, Anguissa and De Bruyne could be available tomorrow against Torino, for the first time in four months.

Both sustained a high-degree injury in their femoral biceps between October and November 2025. De Bruyne opted to undergo surgery, while Anguissa followed conservative treatment.

Source: Gazzetta dello Sport newspaper, March 5, 2026, page 16.

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Juventus’ hopes of signing Sandro Tonali, Bernardo Silva, or Leon Goretzka next summer largely depend on whether the Bianconeri qualify for the Champions League.

Juventus sit sixth in the Serie A table and have not won any of their last four league games. Fourth-placed Roma, however, are just four points above in the standings.

Juventus need Champions League money for transfer boost

With 11 games left, the Bianconeri’s only remaining target is to secure Champions League qualification, which would boost their finances by €60m to €70m and increase their chances of making a big signing in the summer.

According to Gazzetta, Tonali is still the Old Lady’s top target, but Bernardo Silva (Manchester City) and Goretzka (Bayern Munich), who are available as free agents, are also on the Old Lady’s agenda.

According to the report, preliminary talks have begun with all three, but Juventus are aware that they’ll need at least €70m-75m to sign Tonali, a sum that they could raise through Champions League qualification and the sales of Douglas Luiz and Teun Koopmeiners.

Marcos Senesi, a Bournemouth centre-back, has also opened talks with the Old Lady and is reportedly tempted to move to Turin on a free transfer at the end of his contract in June, but Roma remain interested too.

Marco Verratti is increasingly likely to be called up to the Italy national team squad for the upcoming World Cup play-off campaign at the end of March, but what role will the 33-year-old Al-Duhail midfielder have to play in Gennaro Gattuso’s side? 

According to various reports over the last few weeks, Gattuso has been considering calling Verratti back into the national team fold for the World Cup play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland on March 26.

Should the Azzurri win that fixture, they will then have to face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina away from home in a one-legged decider for a spot at the final World Cup tournament. 

How does Verratti fit into Italy’s World Cup play-off plans?

According to updates on Thursday, Verratti is on Gattuso’s preliminary squad list and according to Tuttosport, he will be part of the squad at the end of the month. Federico Chiesa and Federico Gatti are among the other players who could return to the squad. 

For Verratti, if he is called up, it would be his first involvement with the Italy squad since the Nations League third place play-off against the Netherlands in June 2023. 

It remains to be seen whether Verratti will play if he is called up to the squad. According to Thursday’s report, he is seen as an alternative option to Juventus’s Manuel Locatelli at the base of the Azzurri midfield. Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Barella are unlikely to be dropped from their starting spots in Italy’s strongest XI. 

If Verratti is to play, it is most likely that he would be a second half substitute: An experienced player capable of helping Italy get things over the line with his ability to read play and control the tempo of the game from the middle of the park. 

Strahinja Pavlovic has revealed that he spoke to Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic and former Fiorentina defender Nikola Milenkovic before deciding to join Milan from RB Salzburg in the summer of 2024 and claims that Serie A is the best league he’s played in: ‘In these two short years, I’ve learned more than the last six of my career’. 

The Rossoneri defender spoke in-depth to La Gazzetta dello Sport ahead of the Derby della Madonnina between Milan and Inter coming up in Serie A on Sunday evening. 

• Read more: Kaka picks one Inter player he’d steal for Milan and picks derby MVP 

Pavlovic on joining Milan, talks with Vlahovic and improving under Allegri 

Pavlovic claims that he has learned more from playing in Serie A than he had done across six years of his career across Serbia, France, Belgium, Switzerland and Austria. Being at Milan and playing under Massimiliano Allegri specifically has played a major role in his development. 

“You just have to walk around Milanello to understand how many legends have played here, there are pictures everywhere: In the dining room, in the gym … It makes me happy to wear the same shirt that they wore. It’s a great feeling, it’s hard to describe.” 

Pavlovic revealed which of his Serbian teammates he spoke to before joining Milan: “I called Luka Jovic who was here last season, but I also spoke with Milenkovic and Vlahovic to find out more about the Italian division.” 

He insists that moving to Serie A has been the most insightful step of his career: “Milan is the biggest club I’ve played for so far and Serie A is stronger than Austria, France and Serbia. Everything is different here, there are no easy games. And in these two short years, I’ve learned more than the last six of my career. For a defender, it’s the perfect league to grow.

“The coach puts a lot of attention on the defence and we’ve made a lot of progress. The credit is not only due to the defenders, though, because we need everyone’s help. The forwards and midfielders lend us a big hand as well.

“(I’ve learned) so many little things. I’ve started paying attention to little details that I hadn’t even considered before, which makes the difference.” 

After a difficult 2024-25 season in which Milan finished in eighth place, missing out on European football altogether for 2025-26, the Rossoneri now find themselves in second, albeit 10 points off their city rivals, Inter. 

Are Milan ‘happy’ with their season so far?
“It’s a difficult question,” Pavlovic pondered. “We’re happy compared to last year, the goal at the beginning of the season was to get into the top four and we are in the running to achieve that. But looking at our performance, we could have had more points, so there is a bit of regret. 

“There are still 11 games to go and we will do everything we can to get the most out of them.” 

Click here to read the full interview with Pavlovic

Newcastle United central midfielder Sandro Tonali has dropped a possible hint over his future plans after discussing his role as one of the main leaders in this Magpies squad.

Tonali has been a key performer since joining Newcastle from AC Milan, and it’s perhaps not too surprising to see the Italy international become the subject of transfer interest from bigger clubs.

Arsenal were linked with Tonali by the Athletic in January, but now the player himself has suggested he’s already thinking about how he’s going to be an important leader in Eddie Howe’s squad next season.

Sandro Tonali may have just dropped a transfer hint

Tonali has been asked about his more senior role at Newcastle now, and he’s admitted it’s something that seems important to him.

“It would be a little bit tough because it’s not my first language, but I will try,” Tonali said beIN Sports, as quoted by the Chronicle.

“I try to do my best. I try to help every player in the pitch. And I think this is should be for every player, not just for me.

“I think we have six or seven players in the leadership group, they all really helped me, especially the first year, three years ago, for me it was very difficult.

“Especially, Jacob Murphy, Callum Wilson, Jamaal, Bruno and Joelinton as well. Every day, they helped me a lot in that the first the first season. And they help every player now in in our team.”

Should Sandro Tonali leave Newcastle for Arsenal?

Tonali is surely good enough to go to the very top, and that means playing for a club like Arsenal who regularly compete for the biggest trophies.

Newcastle may have won the Carabao Cup final last season, but for now they look like they’ll be in and out of the top four for the foreseeable future, and eventually Tonali might be tempted to look elsewhere.

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The Gunners could do with more depth in midfield after using Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi a lot this season without much rotation.

Of course, it remains to be seen if Tonali would be happy to make the move to the Emirates Stadium unless he were to become a guaranteed starter, but it’s the kind of challenge he might also relish.

The post “I will…” – Sandro Tonali signals his future plans amid Arsenal transfer interest appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United fan and YouTuber Angry Ginge has told the Red Devils to sign Chelsea star Cole Palmer.

The Chelsea player has been in fine form once again this season. He scored for the Blues in their 4-1 win against Aston Villa this week.

Although Bruno Fernandes is currently performing at a world class level, in a few years Man United will have to look for his replacement in the market.

Recently, Palmer has been linked with a move to Old Trafford and now a United fan has told the club to make a move for him as he could be the ideal replacement of Fernandes.

Man United advised to sign Cole Palmer

Angry Ginge told talkSPORT:

“I would love Cole Palmer at Manchester United. I don’t know how much he’s going to cost but I’d sign it tomorrow. Get him at United.

“He’s an incredible player. He’s a good personality. I think Bruno’s 31 now. I think he’s the heir to the throne.”

Football pundit Jamie Carragher has described Palmer as the ‘best player‘ in the Premier League in the past.

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Can Palmer replacement Fernandes for Red Devils?

Replacing Fernandes is a near-impossible task given his creative output and sheer volume of games played over the last six years.

However, Palmer fits the tactical and statistical profile perfectly.

Just like Fernandes, Palmer is a highly versatile, high-volume creator who thrives in the No. 10 role or drifting in from the right half-spaces.

His ability to dictate the tempo, thread defense-splitting passes, and consistently find the back of the net makes him the ideal modern playmaker.

Palmer grew up in Wythenshawe, Manchester, and it is a well-documented fact that he was a boyhood Man United fan before joining Manchester City’s academy.

This Bruno Fernandes stat shows Man United must reverse £87m transfer decision

The post ‘He’s the heir to the throne’ – Man United told to replace Bruno with 23-year-old ‘best player’ appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester City have reportedly joined Manchester United in monitoring Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson as the Premier League giants assess potential midfield reinforcements.

According to The Sun, City’s interest in the 23-year-old is closely linked to uncertainty surrounding Rodri’s long-term future at the Etihad Stadium.

While Anderson has quietly developed into one of the Premier League’s most promising young midfielders, City’s pursuit could depend heavily on whether Rodri remains central to the club’s plans.

Real Madrid are believed to be tracking the Spanish international’s situation, particularly with his contract set to run until the summer of 2027.

Anderson has grown into a midfield powerhouse

The young English midfielder has impressed some of the top clubs in the Premier League, including Man City, Manchester United and Liverpool.

Man City, particularly, know well of his abilities as the Forest midfielder scored a stunning goal for his team against City in the 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium last night.

The midfielder, who previously progressed through Newcastle United’s academy system, has impressed with his versatility, work rate, and technical ability in central areas.

Anderson offers a combination of energy and creativity that fits the demands of modern Premier League football.

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Rodri’s situation could impact Man City plans

For Man City, however, the potential pursuit of Anderson is intertwined with Rodri’s future.

The Spanish midfielder has been one of the most influential players in Pep Guardiola’s system, acting as the team’s primary anchor and orchestrator in possession.

Real Madrid’s reported interest in Rodri could play a huge role in City’s pursuit of Anderson.

Although Rodri remains under contract until 2027, speculation about his future naturally affects City’s long-term planning.

Should the club anticipate a departure in the coming seasons, identifying younger midfielders capable of evolving into key roles becomes a priority.

Man City and Liverpool make contact to sign €100 million ‘special talent’

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Fabian Hurzeler blasted Arsenal’s tactics during their narrow victory over Brighton, and urged the Premier League to take action, claiming “that’s not football”. The Seagulls were beaten 1-0 at the Amex Stadium, with Bukayo Saka’s early deflected strike separating the two sides. After second-place Manchester City could only draw with lowly Nottingham Forest, the Gunners’ […]

The post ´That´s not football´ – Brighton boss Hurzeler slams Arsenal´s tactics appeared first on Soccer News.

The post ´That´s not football´ – Brighton boss Hurzeler slams Arsenal´s tactics appeared first on Soccer News.

Former Juventus winger Massimo Mauro feels that boos against Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni are ‘ridiculous’ as even if the Italian centre-back made a mistake, he ‘can’t pay for the rest of his life.’

Inter defender Bastoni remains a target of fans across Italy after an incident in February that led to a red card for Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu.

Bastoni not only deceived the referee by going down too easily to earn his opponent a red card, but also celebrated when the referee gave Kalulu his marching orders.

Bastoni ‘can’t pay for the rest of his life’ after Inter vs. Juventus

Bastoni was greeted with boos at the following away games at Lecce and Como, but ex-Juventus winger Mauro feels the reactions have been excessive, especially since the incident happened almost a month ago.

“The fact that Bastoni gets booed everywhere is a bit ridiculous. At this point, you’d have to boo 60-70% of footballers,” Mauro told Gazzetta.

“Right now, I can’t take the boos against him seriously.”

Mauro concedes that Bastoni made a mistake, but this doesn’t justify the angry reaction from fans in Italy.

“The issue got blown out of proportion because Kalulu was sent off. Then Bastoni celebrated, and you shouldn’t do that, of course, but you can’t pay for it for the rest of your life either. That’s ridiculous,” insisted Mauro.

“I still maintain that the real mistake was not immediately admitting that a serious error had been made. I’m referring to Chivu’s words in the post-match interview. I used to admire Chivu as a coach and communicator because, from the beginning, he tried to take a different approach to what happens on the pitch. He tried to be sporting even when the refereeing decisions went against him, but in the Bastoni incident, he didn’t manage to do so. I was disappointed when I heard him say that the problem was Kalulu putting his hands on his player.”

The problem, according to Mauro, is not solely with Bastoni’s simulation against Juventus, but with the attitude of the majority of Serie A players, as the ex-winger sees more divers than in the past.

“Much more than before. In the past, it was done to try to win a penalty,” he concluded.

“Now players simulate for everything. And because any contact can look like a foul on video review. Players know this, so it almost becomes instinctive for them to try it. Of course, it’d be condemnable, but when you play, your thinking isn’t clear.”

• Read more – Why Bastoni should not face Italy punishment after Inter vs. Juventus chaos

Donyell Malen is only the last player to shine in Serie A after a move from the Premier League, following in the footsteps of Rasmus Hojlund and Scott McTominay.

With six goals scored in his opening seven Serie A matches, ex-Aston Villa striker Malen has had a tremendous impact at Roma, becoming the second-best European top-scorer after Harry Kane since his move to the Olimpico.

His impact in the Serie A title race has given Roma a boost on “Anglia Bet“ as the Giallorossi fight for a top-four finish.

Malen’sbig Roma impact

After Round 27, the Giallorossi sit 4th in the standings, with a three-point lead over Como and four points more than Juventus.

Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini recently explained how he convinced Malen to join the team from Aston Villa during the winter transfer window.

“He played for Aston Villa and the national team. The way I convinced him to come and play for Roma was by telling him, ‘You’ll play.’ He often ended up on the wing, but for me, he’s a striker, and he wanted this. A striker doesn’t have to be 1,90m tall,” said the Giallorossi boss.

“I think we are already on a good level, but everything can improve. If you lose strikers for one and a half months, it becomes more difficult for everyone.” 

Malen is the last player to have had an immediate impact on Serie A after a move from the Premier League.

One of the most notable examples is McTominay at Napoli. The Scotland star won the Scudetto in his first year at the Stadio Maradona and was named the best player in the league in 2024-25.

One year after his move to Naples, another Manchester United player followed him as the Partenopei signed Hojlund from Old Trafford.

The Dane has grabbed 13 goals and provided four assists in 34 appearances under Antonio Conte so far this season.

Back in 2019-20, Romelu Lukaku made the difference for Inter after a move from Manchester United, helping the club win the Scudetto in his second season at the Stadio Meazza, also under Conte.

Danilo, a former Manchester City defender, is another player who has won the Serie A title, lifting the trophy with Juventus in 2019-20.

Fikayo Tomori won the domestic title with Milan in his second season in 2021-22 after completing a permanent move from Chelsea.

Talking about Milan and Chelsea, how can we not mention Christian Pulisic, another player who has surely improved his game since moving from Stamford Bridge to San Siro?

Captain America has only won one Supercoppa at Milan, but has scored 42 goals in 124 games with the Rossoneri, justifying his €20m price tag.

Fabio Capello notes that Inter ‘have become a bit slow’ in defence, so Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao can ’cause problems’ for the Nerazzurri in the derby, but also tells Leao to ‘show real fighting spirit.’

The Derby della Madonnina is just around the corner as Milan and Inter will meet at San Siro this coming Sunday.

The Nerazzurri are the table leaders with a 10-point advantage over their city rivals who sit second in the standings.

Inter played Como away on Tuesday in the first leg of the Coppa Italia semifinals, but both sides’ focus seemed to be elsewhere.

Capello previews Milan vs. Inter derby

“Inter were already thinking a lot about Sunday’s Derby. The Coppa Italia semifinal was undeniably disappointing, played at a very slow pace by both teams, including Como, which seemed more focused on qualifying for the Champions League,” Capello wrote in his column for Gazzetta dello Sport.

Leao is expected to lead the Milan attack on Sunday after scoring a goal in a 2-0 win over Cremonese on Sunday.

“I heard the Portuguese speaking with grit and determination. Well, I would like to see him just as determined on the pitch, showing real fighting spirit and all of his undeniable qualities,” wrote Capello.

“Many times, he ends up disappearing for certain stretches of the match, and for him, it’s to make an important leap.

“Milan certainly won’t be able to avoid lapses in concentration, as Inter’s quality is much higher,” the ex-Rossoneri coach continued.

“Allegri will have to be careful not to give Inter space, especially when Calhanoglu is on the field, as he is extremely skilled at switching the play out to the wings, where Inter are strong.

“That said, Inter have recently been giving away something in defence, they’ve become a bit slow, and therefore Leao and Pulisic, with their qualities, could also cause problems for the league leaders.”

Milan have only lost two Serie A games this season, but their city rivals have been far more consistent, winning 22 league matches out of 27.

“Milan’s victory would keep the title race more alive, but for the good of our football, the neutral fan should, above all, hope for a match that is enjoyable, played at a high tempo, competitive, well refereed, with the game allowed to flow and without continuous interruptions,” concluded Capello.

“After all, we’re talking about first and second place in the standings, facing each other in a match broadcast in many countries abroad. It would be important to show that Italian football is high-quality and not boring to watch.”

Newspapers in Italy claim that Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri would want to bring both Adrien Rabiot and Luka Modric with him to Real Madrid if he were to accept an offer from Florentino Perez in the near future. 

Could Allegri take Modric and Rabiot to Real Madrid?

Reports earlier this week claimed that Real Madrid are considering appointing Allegri as their next permanent head coach. The LaLiga giants cut short their agreement with the highly-rated Xabi Alonso and are currently under the interim stewardship of Alvaro Arbeloa, who is unlikely to take on the job on a permanent basis. 

According to Tuttosport, Real Madrid and club President Perez have courted Allegri at various stages of the last seven years, dating back to his time with Juventus. 

Los Blancos  could reportedly  be inclined to make another offer for the current Milan boss as they look to turn to a more experienced figure in the Carlo Ancelotti mould for their next head coach. 

According to Tuttosport’s front page and reports from Calciomercato.com on Thursday morning, Allegri would want to bring both Rabiot and Modric with him if he were to accept an offer from Real Madrid. 

Rabiot, like he has done at Milan, would serve as a trusted midfield reinforcement, while Modric is someone that Allegri would like to bring on in some sort of dressing room role, potentially as an assistant coach should the 40-year-old former Ballon d’Or winner decide to hang up his boots in the near future. 

Reports on Thursday claim that Federico Chiesa and Marco Verratti are in a chance of featuring for the Italy national team during the World Cup play-off campaign at the end of the month, and that they have both been included on Gennaro Gattuso’s preliminary squad list. 

Italy are preparing to take on Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semi-final in Bergamo on October 26 and the winner of that tie will go on to face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina away from home on March 31: A one-legged decider for a spot at the final tournament. 

If they fail to beat Northern Ireland and either Wales or Bosnia, it will be the third consecutive World Cup that Italy have missed out on. The Azzurri last qualified for the World Cup group stages in 2014. 

Verratti and Chiesa on Italy preliminary squad list

According to reports from Tuttosport, Gattuso is highly likely to call up Verratti for the first time in almost three years. 

The former Paris Saint-Germain midfielder, currently with Al-Duhail in Qatar, last featured for the national team in the Nations League third place play-off against the Netherlands in June 2023. 

Thursday’s report claims that Chiesa, who has not featured for Italy since the miserable Euro 2024 campaign, is also part of Gattuso’s preliminary squad. He was one of the players that Gattuso spoke to over a dinner in London over the last few weeks according to Thursday’s report. 

The Chiesa case is an exceptional one, and according to Tuttosport, a final decision on his call-up will be made around 10 days before the squad meets up. 

Among the fringe players in with a chance of being called up for the World Cup play-offs at the end of the month are Marco Palestra and Federico Gatti. Nicolo Zaniolo is not expected to be part of the squad.

Manchester United are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimarães, with the Brazilian emerging as one of the club’s primary transfer targets ahead of the summer window.

According to TEAMtalk, United view the 28-year-old as a potential long-term successor to fellow Brazil international Casemiro, who is set to leave the club at the end of the season.

However, prising Guimarães away from Newcastle will not be easy.

The Magpies are eager to secure the midfielder’s future with an improved contract beyond his current deal, which runs until 2028.

At the same time, interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs suggests a fierce transfer battle could unfold if Newcastle are forced to consider offers.

Man United are ready to rebuild their midfield

Man United’s midfield is widely expected to undergo significant changes in the coming months.

Casemiro has been an influential figure since arriving from Real Madrid, but injuries and the physical demands of the Premier League have raised questions about the long-term composition of the team’s midfield.

With the Brazilian now leaving the club this summer, the Red Devils are in the market for a new defensive midfielder.

Guimarães fits the profile of a player capable of anchoring the next phase of United’s project.

He is known for his energy, passing range, and ability to dictate tempo. His leadership qualities have also stood out. Guimarães quickly became a fan favourite at St James’ Park since joining the club.

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Newcastle United’s position over Guimarães

Newcastle remain determined to keep their star midfielder and are reportedly exploring the possibility of extending his contract.

The club’s ownership group has made it clear that retaining key players is essential to their long-term vision of establishing Newcastle among Europe’s elite.

Even if negotiations stall, any potential transfer would likely require a fee approaching £100 million.

Such a price reflects Guimarães’ importance to the team, his age, and the length of his contract.
Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are also monitoring the situation.

Man United ready £400k-a-week offer for 21-G/A star, but he has two conditions 

The post Man United target £100 million Casemiro replacement in record breaking move appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Former Real Madrid star Gareth Bale has admitted that his old teammate Eden Hazard is the worst trainer he ever came across in his career.

Speaking on today’s episode of The Overlap, Bale also admitted he wasn’t someone who loved training or put much effort in either, as every player needs something different in how they prepare for matches.

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The Welshman did, however, single Hazard out straight away as the worst trainer he saw, as he also gave some insight into the Belgian’s struggles at the Bernabeu.

Eden Hazard struggled after injury at Real Madrid

Hazard was a world class performer at Chelsea, establishing himself as one of the top Premier League players of all time.

Things couldn’t have been more different for him at Real Madrid, though, as he struggled to make the same kind of impact with goals and assists as he did at Chelsea.

Bale feels an early injury for Hazard upon his arrival in Spain ultimately led to his downfall as he never really recovered from it.

Hazard and Bale could have been a great partnership, and it’s a shame we never saw Hazard at his best while he was playing alongside Bale in Madrid.

What else did Gareth Bale say on The Overlap?

Bale also spoke about Manchester United’s interest in him when he was at Tottenham, with the 36-year-old admitting he only ever really had his heart set on a move to the Bernabeu.

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Bale also discussed playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as his Wales career and other interesting topics in a quickfire questions section.

While he named Hazard as the worst trainer, he also mentioned Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, and Isco as the best trainers he’d worked with.

The post Gareth Bale makes big claim about Eden Hazard’s “tough time” at Real Madrid appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Former Real Madrid and Tottenham star Gareth Bale has made it clear that he spoke to Manchester United about a transfer.

However, Bale never ended up at Man Utd, and he’s explained in detail why he went to Real Madrid instead of Old Trafford.

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The former Wales international would undoubtedly have been a dream signing for the Red Devils during what proved to be a difficult period for them after Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement.

As noted by Gary Neville on The Overlap, it seemed that United were at one point confident of deals for big names like Bale and also Cesc Fabregas, but Bale responded by saying he had his heart set on joining Real Madrid.

Gareth Bale opens up about Manchester United transfer talks

Speaking on The Overlap today, Bale explained that he spoke with former United manager David Moyes, but it seems he never considered the move that strongly due to his desire to go to Madrid.

The 36-year-old also suggested a key part of this may have been an informal agreement with former Spurs chairman Daniel Levy about not moving to a Premier League rival.

“I did talk to United yeah,” Bale said.

“But my heart was set on Madrid anyway,” he added. “And I had something in place with Daniel Levy, more of a gentleman’s agreement … he didn’t want to sell me to a rival also. He don’t want to strengthen another (Premier League) team.”

Gareth Bale had a great career at Real Madrid

Looking back, Bale surely made the right choice when he decided to move to the Bernabeu.

Bale went on to score 106 goals in 258 games for Los Blancos, and won the Champions League a remarkable five times in total, including scoring in two finals.

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United, meanwhile, have not won a single Premier League or Champions League title since Ferguson’s retirement almost 13 years ago.

Bale may well have helped them, but it’s also clear that there have been major structural issues at the club, rather than just a problem of missing out on a few top players.

The post “I did talk to United” – Gareth Bale explains the real reason Man Utd transfer never happened appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Wrexham’s remarkable rise through English football could soon reach another extraordinary chapter. The Welsh club, owned by Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, are reportedly preparing ambitious transfer plans should they secure promotion to the Premier League.

According to TEAMtalk, Wrexham have identified Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson and Fulham attacking midfielder Harry Wilson as potential free-agent signings if they successfully complete their push for top-flight football.

Currently sitting sixth in the Championship table, Wrexham are fighting to secure a place in the end-of-season play-offs.

If they manage to win promotion, it would mark an unprecedented fourth consecutive rise through the English league pyramid, a feat rarely seen in modern football.

Wrexham are a remarkable football story

Since Reynolds and McElhenney took ownership in 2021, Wrexham have transformed from a National League side into one of the most talked-about clubs in Europe.

The duo’s investment, global marketing appeal, and the popularity of the Welcome to Wrexham documentary have significantly boosted the club’s profile.

On the pitch, the project has been equally impressive. Strategic recruitment and strong leadership have allowed the club to climb rapidly through the divisions.

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Liverpool star is expected to be targeted

Among the players reportedly on their radar are Robertson and Wilson.

Robertson has been one of Liverpool’s most influential defenders over the past decade, playing a key role in the club’s Premier League and Champions League triumphs.

If available as a free agent, his leadership and experience could prove invaluable for a newly promoted side.

While promotion remains the immediate priority, the club’s leadership is already preparing for what life in the Premier League might require.

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The post Report: Wrexham plot ambitious move for two-time league winning Liverpool star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Aleksandar Pavlovic’s name could be one to watch in the weeks and months ahead as I’ve been informed of some strong Premier League interest in the Bayern Munich youngster.

Sources in the industry indicate that Manchester City have already held informal talks with people close to the player, but despite this interest, Pavlovic’s priority remains to stay with Bayern Munich.

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I’ve also been told that Chelsea are expected to open discussions with the Bundesliga champions directly in the coming weeks, though any negotiations are unlikely to lead to a breakthrough given the player’s stance and Bayern’s position.

The 21-year-old German international midfielder has publicly stated that he can envision spending his entire career at Bayern. He emphasized that as long as the club continues to meet his ambitions, there would be no reason to seek a transfer. These remarks have significantly cooled speculation about a summer departure and underline Bayern’s determination to keep him at the heart of their long-term project.

Aleksandar Pavlovic Bayern exit looks unlikely at this stage

Pavlovic is under contract with Bayern until 2029, a factor that strengthens the club’s hand in any potential negotiations. His current market value is estimated at €65 million, a figure that explains the strong interest from England but also highlights the financial challenge of prising him away from Munich.Bayern, however, have no intention of cashing in on their rising star, instead viewing him as a cornerstone for both domestic success and European ambitions.

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On the pitch, Pavlovic has already proven his worth. In the 2025/26 Bundesliga season so far, he has made 19 appearances, contributing three goals and one assist. At international level, he has earned nine caps for the German national team, scoring once. Despite still being at the early stages of his career, his consistency and maturity beyond his years have made him a firm fan favourite at the Allianz Arena.

While Premier League clubs continue to monitor his situation, Pavlovic’s words and Bayern’s firm stance make a summer transfer highly improbable. The midfielder looks set to remain in Bavaria, where he is expected to play a central role in shaping the club’s future.

The post Sources: Chelsea set to contact Bayern over ambitious €65m transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

La Gazzetta dello Sport 

Pavlovic exclusive 

A hardman’s derby 

‘Leao said the right thing: It’s a game of life or feath/ Milan are ready to do well. Allegri has improved me. 

Gattuso keeps Bastoni 

A case of boos for the Inter defender 

The CT has already spoken: He will be called up for the World Cup play-offs 

With goals

Coppa Italia: Semi-final first leg

Lazio-Atalanta, what a reaction, it’s a thrilling draw (2-2)

Juve making moves 

Silva and Tonali: Luxury reinforcements for Spalletti

Corriere dello Sport 

A centre-forward for Juve 

Vlahovic surprise | Training in the group since yesterday: Wants to be on the benign against Pisa 

Dusan returns: From the renewal to the Champions League 

He’s been out for 96 days after the adductor surgery. Last goal in Serie A on October 29. Lucio considers him decisive for the race for fourth place. And Comolli is working on the contract 

Lazio frustrate La Dea 

Coppa Italia, semi-final first leg: Finishes 2-2 in a deserted Olimpico 

Heart and pride: Sarri very nearly gets the win with a high-level second half. Magic from Dele-Bashiru after a through-ball from  Maldini. Pasalic finds the 1-1. Dia puts Mau ahead at the end. Musah restores the  balance. Thousands of Laziali not in the Curva Nord. Return leg in Bergamo on April 22 

Napoli, gold on the bench 

Anguissa and De Bruyne called up for Toro 

Tomorrow, Conte finds two of his fab four again. Lobotka out, McTominay doubtful. Gilmour with Elmas in midfield 

Real Madrid, Allegri solution 

Florentino Pereez courting him for seven years 

They need experience after the flop of Xabi Alonso and the interim Arbeloa

Tuttosport 

Juve-Spalletti cont(r)act 

Talks over the coach’s future have begun. Comolli at training yesterday … 

They’ve started talking about the basis of a renewal in recent days: Now discussing the length and they say that Lucio wants in transfer decisions, regardless of  budget constraints. Interview with the son of Sal Da Vinci, who has met the coach: ‘He’s a Napoli idol, like my dad. I hope he’s not at Juve forever’. And, Vlahovic returns to the group: Already called up against Pisa? 

Modric and Rabiot at Real with Max 

Allegri’s conditions for saying yes to Florentino 

Arbeloa destined to leave and Perez tries again with the Milan coach, who would want to bring the Ballon d’Or winner with him as an assistant and the Frenchman as a reinforcement 

‘Napoli-Toro? 11 shields on the pitch’ 

D’Aversa uses his pride as leverage 

The tecnico demands a big leap in quality tomorrow evening: ‘More concentration, more application, more continuity’. The set-piece trouble 

Verratti in Italy for the World Cup 

Gattuso’s choice heading towards the play-offs 

He would alternate with Locatelli in deep midfield. Among the preliminary call-ups is also Chiesa. Definite call-up for Palestra and Gatti could also return. Zaniolo remains out 

Immovable Atalanta, hit back twice against Lazio 

Coppa Italia semi-final first leg: 2-2

Real Madrid are reportedly determined to strengthen their squad with a top young talent this summer, with Manchester City’s Nico O’Reilly one of their priorities.

The 20-year-old has shone for Man City since becoming more of a first-team regular this season, showing that he can flourish in a variety of different positions.

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According to Fichajes, this has led Real Madrid to take a serious look at O’Reilly ahead of this summer, with the Spanish giants’ recruitment team rating him very highly.

At the same time, however, it’s hard to imagine City being prepared to let the England international go any time soon.

O’Reilly’s contract at the Etihad Stadium runs until 2030, so MCFC should be in a reasonably strong position with this one.

Nico O’Reilly transfer is not something Manchester City should consider

O’Reilly’s remarkable rise this season surely shows he’s too important for the club to let go, with their academy often producing fine talents.

Phil Foden has been the best example of this, but we’ve also seen Rico Lewis doing well in the first-team, while others such as Cole Palmer, Liam Delap, and Romeo Lavia have left the club and gone on to do well elsewhere.

O’Reilly looks like he’s more than capable of emulating players like Foden and Palmer in becoming a top performer at the highest level.

Whether he does that at City or elsewhere remains to be seen, but it’s hard to imagine Madrid being able to get this ambitious deal done at this moment in time.

Could PSR tempt Man City into Nico O’Reilly sale?

One key element of the modern game, however, is the PSR regulations that tempt clubs into cashing in on homegrown players.

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Someone like O’Reilly would potentially bring in a lot of money for City, and would also count as pure profit as he came up through their academy.

City would do well not to fall into this trap, however, as they need to put their squad first, and O’Reilly has shown he’s more than capable of contributing a lot in either defence or midfield.

The post From Spain: Real Madrid determined to make surprise signing from Manchester City appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United have reportedly decided against selling Mason Mount this summer, even as interest from fellow Premier League clubs continues to grow.

According to Football Insider, the Old Trafford hierarchy remain committed to the midfielder despite speculation linking him with moves to Aston Villa and Fulham.

Mount’s time at United has been turbulent since his £55 million transfer from Chelsea in 2023.

Injuries, tactical adjustments and intense competition for midfield places have made it difficult for the England international to secure a consistent run of games.

Yet internally, the club still believes the 27-year-old can play a meaningful role in the squad moving forward.

Mount has endured a challenging period at Man United

Mount arrived at Man United with high expectations after establishing himself as one of Chelsea’s most reliable performers during their Champions League-winning era.

His reputation for relentless pressing and attacking contributions made him an appealing addition to United’s midfield rebuild.

However, injuries have repeatedly interrupted his progress. During the 2025/26 campaign, Mount has once again struggled to maintain full fitness, leaving him fighting to define his place in a team that has undergone several tactical changes under Michael Carrick.

Despite these challenges, United’s coaching staff still value his versatility. Mount can operate as an advanced attacking midfielder, a wide playmaker, or in a deeper central role when required.

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Aston Villa and Fulham are interested

Speculation surrounding Mount’s future intensified after Aston Villa and Fulham reportedly began monitoring his situation.

Unai Emery’s Villa are believed to be particularly interested, with the Spanish manager known for reviving the careers of players who struggled to find form elsewhere.

Villa’s recruitment team reportedly views Mount’s work rate and positional awareness as a strong fit for Emery’s structured tactical system.

Fulham have also been linked with the midfielder. Marco Silva’s side are understood to be exploring ways to add greater experience and creativity to their midfield options.

Report: Man United and Chelsea would have to wait after the World Cup to sign £40 million midfielder

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Bruno Fernandes has now hit 14 assists for Manchester United in the Premier League this season as he closes in on David Beckham’s record.

According to Opta, this assists return from Fernandes is the best since Beckham set up 15 for Man Utd in the 1999/00 season.

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Fernandes surely won’t have much trouble overtaking that in the final few games of the season, and this stat is yet another reminder of just how important the Portugal international is for the Red Devils.

14 – Bruno Fernandes has now assisted 14 goals in the Premier League this season; only David Beckham has ever assisted more goals in a season in the competition for @ManUtd (15 in 1999-00). Machine. pic.twitter.com/YgL9h8ucFU

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) March 4, 2026

Fernandes also has seven league goals so far this season, with the 31-year-old looking simply irreplaceable, even if he’s not getting any younger.

Manchester United must keep Bruno Fernandes

We recently reported on information we’d received on Fernandes and a potential transfer out of Old Trafford this summer.

Although United’s preference is to keep Fernandes, there’s also the feeling that he could leave for the right price, perhaps around £87m, as top clubs like Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain show an interest in him.

It may already be that United are shifting their stance, with the Daily Mirror reporting on a possible bumper new contract for the former Sporting Lisbon man.

Given his influence on this team, it would surely be madness for United not to at least consider extending his stay, and making an exception for such a special player, even if he’ll be 32 next season.

Bruno Fernandes should be part of United’s midfield rebuild

Fernandes’ importance is arguably even greater now that MUFC also know Casemiro will be leaving at the end of his contract this summer.

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That already means the club will need to make changes in that area of the pitch, with at least one, but perhaps two new signings needed, as Manuel Ugarte’s poor form surely means he could be replaced.

If Fernandes were also to move on, it would surely be too many changes happening all at once in such an important position in United’s squad.

The post This Bruno Fernandes stat shows Man United must reverse £87m transfer decision appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Karim Adeyemi’s future at Borussia Dortmund is becoming increasingly uncertain as contract negotiations between the player and the club continue to stall.

According to German outlet Bild, the winger has yet to commit to a new deal and is reportedly hoping for a future move to the Premier League.

With his current contract entering its final year in June, Dortmund now face a familiar dilemma, convince a key player to sign a long-term extension or risk losing him at a reduced fee in the near future.

The situation has already attracted attention from several English clubs, with Manchester United and Chelsea previously linked to the 24-year-old forward.

Adeyemi contract talks reach stalemate

Dortmund have been attempting to secure Adeyemi’s long-term future at Signal Iduna Park, but negotiations have reportedly made little progress.

One major sticking point concerns the player’s request for a release clause to be included in any new contract.

Such clauses are common in Germany, but they can limit a club’s leverage if interest from wealthier leagues intensifies.

Dortmund are hesitant to include a clause that would make it easier for Premier League sides to trigger a transfer in the future.

The club’s patience is reportedly beginning to wear thin after months of discussions without resolution.

With the contract ticking down, Dortmund may soon be forced to decide whether to continue negotiating or consider a sale while Adeyemi still retains significant market value.

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Man United are interested in the young attacker

Adeyemi has long been admired by English clubs due to his pace, direct attacking style, and ability to play across the forward line.

His speed in transition and pressing intensity make him particularly suited to the high-tempo demands of the Premier League.

Man United and Chelsea have both been linked with the Germany international in the past, and those connections could easily resurface if Dortmund signal a willingness to negotiate.

For clubs seeking explosive wide attackers capable of stretching defences, Adeyemi represents a highly attractive option.

Report: Man United and Chelsea would have to wait after the World Cup to sign £40 million midfielder

The post Man United target is eager to leave the Bundesliga for move to Premier League appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise has emerged as one of the most sought-after attacking players in European football, with several elite clubs monitoring his situation ahead of the summer transfer window.

According to TEAMtalk, Manchester City and Liverpool have both made contact with the German champions regarding a potential deal worth around €100 million.

Despite the interest, Bayern are reportedly standing firm. The Bundesliga club have rejected initial enquiries and made it clear that they are not currently willing to part ways with the 24-year-old, who has become a key figure in their attacking setup.

Michael Olise has enjoyed a rapid rise

Olise’s reputation has grown significantly over the past few seasons.

Known for his exceptional dribbling ability, creativity in the final third, and composure in one-on-one situations, the French-born attacker has developed into one of Europe’s most dangerous wide players.

The Frenchman has scored 13 goals and provided 25 assists in all competitions for Bayern Munich this season.

His performances in the Bundesliga and European competitions have drawn widespread praise.

Bayern view him as an important component of their long-term attacking strategy and are therefore reluctant to entertain offers unless they receive an extraordinary proposal.

Olise’s stats this season

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Man City and Liverpool are both interested

Manchester City and Liverpool are both believed to admire Olise’s profile.

Man City are constantly evaluating options to maintain the creativity and unpredictability of their forward line, while Liverpool are looking to refresh their attacking options as they continue rebuilding their squad.

However, Premier League clubs are not alone in the chase. Real Madrid and Barcelona are also reportedly monitoring the situation closely.

Olise himself would be open to the idea of playing in Spain at some point, with LaLiga viewed as a particularly attractive destination.

Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has called Olise a ‘special talent‘.

Midfielder who ‘dreams’ of Premier League move is wanted by Man City and Man United

The post Man City and Liverpool make contact to sign €100 million ‘special talent’ appeared first on CaughtOffside.

According to The Daily Mail, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool are all keeping a close eye on the Bournemouth midfielder Tyler Adams as he works his way back to full fitness following injury setbacks.

The 27-year-old United States international has only recently returned to action, featuring in three Premier League matches since making his comeback in the goalless draw against West Ham last month.

Despite the limited appearances, his reputation as an energetic and tactically disciplined midfielder has ensured he remains firmly on the radar of some of England’s biggest clubs.

Adams is known for his energy and leadership

Adams has built a reputation throughout his career as a relentless ball-winner and intelligent defensive midfielder.

Having previously impressed in the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig, he established himself as one of the most reliable pressing midfielders in Europe before making the move to the Premier League.

His playing style is defined by high work rate, positional awareness, and the ability to break up opposition attacks.

These qualities have made him a key figure for the United States national team as well, where he has frequently served as captain and leader in midfield.

At Bournemouth, Adams has faced a challenging period due to injuries limiting his opportunities.

However, his return to the pitch has quickly reignited interest from clubs seeking to strengthen their midfield depth.

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Man United and Chelsea among clubs interested

Man United, Chelsea, and Liverpool are all believed to be evaluating potential midfield reinforcements ahead of the summer.

Each club has different motivations but shares a similar need for a dynamic, defensively responsible presence in the centre of the pitch.

Bournemouth could consider offers in the region of £40 million for Adams.

That valuation shows both his Premier League experience and his international pedigree, though any potential transfer is unlikely to progress immediately.

Sources indicate that interested clubs may prefer to wait until after the FIFA World Cup before making a final move, allowing them to assess his fitness and form over a longer period.

Boost for Liverpool, Man United as club prepared to accept “big offers” for £80m target 

The post Report: Man United and Chelsea would have to wait after the World Cup to sign £40 million midfielder appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie could be seen shushing Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler during a bad-tempered game in last night’s Premier League action.

The Gunners ended up winning 1-0 away to Brighton thanks to an early deflected goal by Bukayo Saka, but it was far from a vintage display from Mikel Arteta’s side.

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Hurzeler was heavily critical of Arsenal in his post-match press conference as he said only his team tried to play football.

It seems the Seagulls boss also made this clear to Hincapie at one moment, with the Ecuador international clearly not having any of it as he gave this cheeky response…

pic.twitter.com/CGtp4mMfpW

— Kenneth Eide (@EideKennet84877) March 5, 2026

The clip appears to show Hurzeler telling Hincapie and Arsenal to “f**king play football”, with the Gunners ace seeming amused as he tells the German tactician to keep quiet.

Fabian Hurzeler slams Arsenal tactics

“I think there was only one team who tried to play football today and therefore I’m proud of how they did it,” Hurzeler said after the game.

He added: “I will never be that kind of manager who tries to win in that way. I want to do well. I want my players to keep improving, keep playing football on the pitch.

“In the end, of course, every team will manage and waste time, but I think there has to be a limit, and the limit has to be set by the Premier League. The limit has to be set by the referees, at the moment they just do what they want.”

A big night in the title race between Arsenal and Manchester City

While there might be a lot of focus on Arsenal’s playing style, the reality is that they were big winners last night with three points at Brighton while their nearest rivals Manchester City surprisingly dropped points at home to Nottingham Forest.

City twice took the lead against Vitor Pereira’s side, but were twice pegged back and had to settle for a 2-2 draw.

This set of results puts Arsenal seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table, though City have a game in hand, meaning that gap could still be cut to four points.

Overall, though, it’s a huge psychological boost for Arsenal as they take control of the title race again with some strong recent results.

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Brighton away is never an easy fixture, and the win also followed important victories away to Tottenham and at home to Chelsea.

Arsenal also arguably have the easier-looking fixtures remaining, so City possibly missed a big opportunity last night in what should have been a routine win for them against a side battling relegation.

The post Video: Arsenal star spotted trolling Brighton manager during bad-tempered Premier League clash appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool have reportedly made checks on Michael Olise as the Bayern Munich winger is described as a “dream target” for the Reds.

However, it seems Liverpool are realistic about their chances of signing Olise, and currently consider a deal completely unrealistic, according to Florian Plettenberg.

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The France international has had an outstanding season for Bayern, with Plettenberg noting in his post on X that the player is currently on a total of 38 goals and assists in all competitions.

See below for details as Liverpool have made checks on Olise but ultimately seem set to go for the more realistic Yan Diomande instead…

Michael Olise to Liverpool transfer looks unrealistic

“Michael #Olise remains a dream target for Liverpool ahead of the upcoming summer window, and further background checks have been made,” Plettenberg posted.

?? Michael #Olise remains a dream target for Liverpool ahead of the upcoming summer window, and further background checks have been made. However, #LFC now consider a transfer to be completely unrealistic.

He is not for sale. In addition, FC Bayern are looking to extend his… pic.twitter.com/QT2HeI5o7M

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) March 3, 2026

“However, #LFC now consider a transfer to be completely unrealistic. He is not for sale. In addition, FC Bayern are looking to extend his contract beyond 2029, with plans to improve his current deal. Incredible 13G/25A this season yet.

“As a result, LFC are shifting their focus within the Bundesliga to Yan #Diomande.”

Diomande is another exciting talent who’s impressed in the Bundesliga, and LFC fans will just have to hope he can end up developing into a player similar to Olise.

Liverpool’s need for a new winger is clear

Whether Liverpool sign Olise, Diomande, or someone else, what’s clear is that they need a winger of this profile this summer.

In recent history, the Merseyside giants were able to rely on the goals and assists of Mohamed Salah, but it seems age is finally catching up with the legendary Egypt international.

Salah, now 33 years old, only has eight goals and seven assists in all competitions so far this season – a big drop off from the crazy figures that fired the club to the Premier League title last term.

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But it’s not just Salah – there’s also been a considerable dip in form from Cody Gakpo this season, while the sale of Luis Diaz looks like more and more of a mistake as time goes on.

Olise looks better equipped than anyone to replace Salah, but it also wouldn’t make sense for Liverpool to pursue an unrealistic deal, so Diomande could be a smart alternative for the long-term.

The post Sky journalist reveals 38 G/A star is “dream target for Liverpool”, so what happens next? appeared first on CaughtOffside.

The Saudi Pro League found itself at the center of a major decision as tensions continued to escalate across the Middle East, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema serving as the faces of a league now facing an uncertain path forward. Reports have now emerged claiming the SPL has issued a key message to Al Nassr, Al Hilal and the rest of the league’s clubs regarding the continuation of fixtures.

A pressing question hung over whether the SPL would follow Qatar’s lead and suspend its activities. The Qatar Football Association had already announced on Sunday the postponement of all tournaments, competitions and matches “effective from today and until further notice,” but Saudi authorities appear to have reached a different conclusion.

According to The Athletic, the Saudi Pro League has informed its clubs that upcoming fixtures will not be suspended and will proceed as originally scheduled. While the Asian Football Confederation moved to postpone matches in international competitions such as the AFC Champions League Elite and Champions League Two, the Saudi authorities have opted not to follow suit on the domestic front.

That said, the decision remains subject to change as the situation develops. As the outlet noted, security protocols are being followed to ensure the safety of all involved, but the landscape “continues to be monitored day by day.“

What’s next for the SPL?

Matchday 25 gets underway on Thursday with Al Kholood hosting Al Qadsiah and Damac FC welcoming Al Riyadh. Beyond the results on the pitch, both matches will also serve as an important gauge of how smoothly the league can operate and what protocols need to be in place going forward.

On Friday, Al Hilal will host Al Najma, who currently sit at the foot of the table. Benzema‘s side has been struggling for consistency of late, picking up back-to-back draws against Al Ittihad and Al Taawoun, dropping them from the summit to third place with 58 points from 24 games.

Then on Saturday, Al Nassr will welcome Neom SC to Al Awwal Park. Cristiano Ronaldo’s side has been in formidable form domestically, riding a 10-game winning streak in the SPL to sit top of the standings with 61 points from 24 matches.

Ronaldo himself, however, will not be part of it. The Portuguese star was recently diagnosed with a hamstring injury sustained in the win over Al Fayha, ruling him out of Saturday’s fixture. Head coach Jorge Jesus is expected to turn to Abdullah Al-Hamdan to fill the void up front as Ronaldo bides his time on the road to recovery.

Kylian Mbappé‘s latest injury has become a serious headache for Real Madrid in a season that has fallen well short of expectations. With Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City looming in the Champions League Round of 16 next week, the French star headlines a list of six Madrid players currently sidelined and in doubt for the tie.

After a blistering start to the season that saw him sitting atop both the La Liga and Champions League scoring charts, Mbappé’s momentum was halted at the turn of the year by a knee sprain. The same issue flared up again ahead of the playoff second leg against Benfica, prompting the club to enroll him in a specific recovery program while opting not to disclose a return date.

Adding to the growing injury concerns, Rodrygo has now been ruled out for the remainder of the 2025-26 season and the start of the next, after tearing his ACL and lateral meniscus in his right leg. The news sent shockwaves through the squad, drawing messages of support from Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior and Brazilian legend Neymar.

Rodrygo’s injury brings Real Madrid‘s walking wounded to six. Alongside Mbappé’s knee sprain, defender Éder Militão is also recovering from a torn ACL, while David Alaba, Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos are all sidelined with muscular problems.

Ceballos suffered a tear in the soleus muscle of his right leg in late February, with a recovery timeline of around seven weeks. Alaba, meanwhile, has been plagued by chronic muscular issues throughout the 2025-26 campaign, and despite managing to hold down a starting berth, he was substituted off in the 55th minute of the most recent match against Getafe.

Bellingham, for his part, is still managing an injury to the semitendinosus muscle in his left leg, one that appears likely to rule him out for the entire Manchester City series. According to Marca, the Englishman has decided to seek a second medical opinion on his hamstring, following a similar path to Mbappé, who recently consulted outside specialists to assess his knee.

Real Madrid hopeful to see Mbappe against City

With the 2026 World Cup fewer than 100 days away, Mbappé’s knee has become a focal point of concern not only for Real Madrid but also for the France national team, which has been closely monitoring his condition. With surgery already ruled out, both Mbappé and the club are firmly against taking any risks that could lead to a fresh setback or further damage to the same area.

That said, there is still a flicker of hope on the horizon for both player and club. As reported by Diario AS, Mbappé has not been entirely ruled out for the first leg against Manchester City on Wednesday, March 11, with the player acutely aware of just how much is at stake in what remains of Real Madrid’s season.

Initially, the expectation was that Mbappé might be ready to return, albeit not at full fitness, in time for the second leg on Tuesday, March 17. But the player’s own ambitions appear to go further than that, with reports suggesting he is pushing to be available for the first leg, at minimum as an option off the bench, in what would be a race against the clock.

Lionel Messi has wasted no time making his mark on the 2026 MLS season, reigniting expectations with a stunning brace in Inter Miami‘s 4-2 comeback victory over Orlando City. With the club’s ambitions stretching across all competitions, reports have emerged linking the Herons to a young Argentine prospect as they look to add further depth to their roster.

The 2026 winter transfer window proved to be the most active in Inter Miami’s history from a spending standpoint. Messi’s squad was bolstered by the returns of key players like Tadeo Allende and Rocco Ríos-Novo, as well as marquee additions in Germán Berterame and goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair (among others), but the club’s business may not be done yet.

According to journalist Leandro Belli and transfer expert César Luis Merlo, Inter Miami have added Racing Club youngster Matías Acevedo to their list of potential signings. Having failed to secure the permanent transfer of Baltasar Rodríguez from the Argentine club, the MLS side is now turning their attention to the 18-year-old as a viable alternative.

The key question surrounding a potential move for Acevedo is timing. As both journalists report, Inter Miami are weighing whether to make an offer before the primary transfer window closes on March 26, or to wait until the summer window, with the move described as an attractive opportunity rather than an urgent priority.

Acevedo first announced himself as one of Racing’s brightest prospects when he made his debut in September 2024 at just 16 years old, logging 15 minutes of first-team action. While he has yet to return to the senior squad since, the offensive midfielder has since been promoted to the reserve team and continues to develop.

Standing 5-foot-5 and still just 18 years old, Acevedo is a technically gifted player capable of operating as an attacking midfielder or as a winger on either flank. With Tadeo Allende currently the primary option on the right side, the youngster would offer genuine competition and cover, particularly given his ability in one-on-one situations, an area where the current Inter Miami squad, Messi aside, lacks proven options.

Inter Miami still able to pull off one more signing

At a recent FIFA event, Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas suggested the club’s window activity may be winding down, saying he would not be “anticipating any more signings.” Still, the board member also noted that six of their seven identified targets for the current transfer window had already been secured.

That said, the door remains open for at least one additional move. Inter Miami acquired an international roster slot from the New England Revolution, with a club statement noting that the slot will return to New England when the secondary transfer window opens, leaving the Herons with the flexibility to make one more addition before the March 26 deadline.

Brighton & Hove Albion’s Pascal Gross has slammed Arsenal’s time-wasting tactics following the Gunners’ narrow 1-0 win at the Amex Stadium on Wednesday night.

The result, secured by a deflected Bukayo Saka strike in the ninth minute, saw Arsenal move seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table.

However, the victory was marred by controversy as the Seagulls’ veteran leader expressed his outrage over Arsenal’s approach to seeing out the game.

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Pascal Gross on Arsenal’s time-wasting

Despite a spirited performance that saw Brighton outshoot the league leaders, they were unable to find a breakthrough against a resolute, if cynical, Arsenal defence.

Speaking to BBC Match of the Day (via BBC Sport) after the whistle, Gross was scathing in his assessment of the final stages of the match.

“In the second half, we had two or three chances. We didn’t finish the attack; it’s the only thing we missed today. We found a lot of solutions against them. We created a lot. It wasn’t the case today, so we are disappointed that we outplayed them.”

Turning his attention to Arsenal’s dirty tactics, Gross didn’t hold back:

“No words needed for that for Arsenal. I said my opinion on it. Everyone can make their own decision, but I’m sure you don’t like to watch these football games. Football fans want to see a football game, not time-wasting.”

Mikel Arteta’s side has built up a reputation for “playing dirty”

The accusations from Gross follow a growing trend this season where Mikel Arteta’s side has been criticised for utilising “dark arts” to protect narrow leads.

Chelsea’s Liam Rosenior also expressed his frustration towards Arsenal’s tactics earlier last month.

While Arteta has previously defended his side’s game management as “competitive,” the frustration at the Amex was palpable.

For Brighton, the defeat leaves them winless in five, while for Arsenal, the ugly win puts them one step closer to their first Premier League title in 22 years.

The post “No words needed” – Pascal Gross rips into Arsenal’s dirty tactics after win vs Brighton appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Unai Emery conceded Aston Villa are “in a bad moment”, but urged them to “recover confidence” following their 4-1 defeat by Chelsea. The hosts were comprehensively beaten at Villa Park, despite taking the lead through Douglas Luiz’s strike after just two minutes. Joao Pedro scored a hat-trick and Cole Palmer was also on target, as […]

The post Villa ´in a bad moment´ as Emery urges players to ´recover confidence´ appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Villa ´in a bad moment´ as Emery urges players to ´recover confidence´ appeared first on Soccer News.

Joao Pedro described his hat-trick in Chelsea’s 4-1 win over Aston Villa as “special”, with the Brazilian saying his team provided the perfect response to their defeat at Arsenal. Chelsea leapfrogged Liverpool and are up to fifth in the Premier League with their dominant display at Villa Park on Wednesday, with Cole Palmer also on […]

The post ´Special´ hat-trick the perfect response to Arsenal defeat, says Joao Pedro appeared first on Soccer News.

The post ´Special´ hat-trick the perfect response to Arsenal defeat, says Joao Pedro appeared first on Soccer News.

Bukayo Saka feels “blessed” after scoring the decisive goal on his 300th appearance for Arsenal across all competitions, securing a narrow 1-0 victory over Brighton. Saka broke the deadlock after nine minutes in Wednesday’s clash at the Amex Stadium, with his low, curling effort taking a fortunate deflection off Carlos Baleba before finding the net. […]

The post ´I feel blessed, I feel joy´ – Saka revels in decisive goal on 300th Arsenal appearance appeared first on Soccer News.

The post ´I feel blessed, I feel joy´ – Saka revels in decisive goal on 300th Arsenal appearance appeared first on Soccer News.

Manchester City twice surrendered the lead in a 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest to lose ground on Arsenal at the top of the Premier League. Antoine Semenyo and Rodri twice had City ahead at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday, only for Morgan Gibbs-White and Elliot Anderson to earn strugglers Forest a potentially crucial point. Gibbs-White […]

The post Manchester City 2-2 Nottingham Forest: Gibbs-White and Anderson earn potentially crucial draw appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Manchester City 2-2 Nottingham Forest: Gibbs-White and Anderson earn potentially crucial draw appeared first on Soccer News.

The saga that could see a star going to MLS continues as his move may be delayed. Antoine Griezmann was part of Atletico Madrid’s victory in the Copa del Rey semifinals over Barcelona that could see him stay.

Griezmann has an offer from Orlando City that tempts him to leave the continent. However, Tuesday’s result gave the striker a new goal with the potential of a trophy, and that was the deciding factor in putting the transfer on hold for now, according to ESPN.

The report states: “Antoine Griezmann has put a potential move to Orlando City on hold this season now that Atletico has advanced to the Copa del Rey final. Diego Simeone and the front-office team were keen to see Griezmann stay on for the season to give him the best potential farewell possible, including a shot at the Copa del Rey trophy.”

Atletico Madrid’s executive addresses Griezmann’s contract

This information backs what was said by an Atlético Madrid executive. Last Friday during the Champions League draw, Mateu Alemany referred to Antoine Griezmann’s situation and reinforced the idea that his stay remains likely.

The executive made it clear that, despite the speculation surrounding the forward’s future, the club remains calm about his contract status and trusts his commitment at this stage of the season, especially with important matches ahead.

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.”

Griezmann’s deadline to make a move

With the European transfer window closed, any departure would depend on the destination league’s rules; in MLS the registration deadline is March 26, a date that falls during a crucial stretch of the season and makes an immediate move unlikely even if a future transfer cannot be ruled out.

Following the inconsistencies of recent years, AC Milan decided to bet on the return of Massimiliano Allegri. While he was coming off a criticized spell at Juventus, but the coach has managed to make a real impact on the team. With only two defeats in Serie A, the Rossoneri have established themselves as one of the best sides in Italy. Despite this, the Italian’s future is far from secure, drawing the attention of a LaLiga side.

While Allegri only arrived at AC Milan at the beginning of the season, the coach may not be entirely certain about staying for another year. According to Michele Criscitiello on Sportitalia, the Italian is reportedly quite dissatisfied with the management of the front office and the club’s transfer policy. For that reason, he is said to be considering leaving at the end of the season, which has allegedly attracted the attention of Real Madrid.

According to Antonio Vitiello in Corriere dello Sport, Massimiliano Allegri is once again on Real Madrid’s radar, as the club seeks an immediate impact for next season. After having been approached on two previous occasions while he was at Juventus, the Italian could consider the possibility, but the Spanish side may be required to pay a fee, as the coach remains under contract with the Rossoneri until 2027.

Although he may not have led the Rossoneri to a Serie A title, Allegri’s potential departure would be highly detrimental. Despite limited investment, he has managed to maximize his players’ performances by imposing a clear tactical structure. Should he guide them to the Champions League, the coach would demand attacking reinforcements, and if he does not receive them, he could choose to leave the club, as he is seeking a truly competitive project.

AC Milan may need key reinforcements to convince Allegri

Throughout the 2025–26 season, the Rossoneri have managed to establish themselves as one of the most solid teams in Italy. Unlike in previous campaigns, they have excelled in defense and midfield, suffering only two defeats in Serie A. Nevertheless, AC Milan still have significant issues within their roster that raise doubts about Massimiliano Allegri’s continuity. For that reason, they may require strategic signings to boost their offensive competitiveness.

With uncertainty surrounding Luka Modrić’s continuity and the lack of scoring impact, AC Milan may need at least two world-class signings: a playmaking midfielder and an established center forward. Although names such as Bernardo Silva, Leon Goretzka, Mateo Kovačić, Dušan Vlahović, and Moise Kean have been mentioned, they have not secured any reinforcements. If they fail to land proven additions, Allegri could ultimately decide to leave the club.

As Argentina and Spain move through a pivotal stretch while awaiting clarity on the next Finalissima, the two national teams are also linked by another developing storyline. A La Liga player is eligible to play for either side, and Lionel Scaloni is reportedly monitoring his situation closely.

According to Diario AS, Joaquin Martinez Gauna, nicknamed Oso, has caught Argentina’s attention. “AFA and Lionel Scaloni, the head coach, already have Oso on their radar and, if he continues to break out, they will try to snatch him away from La Roja,” the report states.

Martinez Gauna is a 22-year-old left back who can also operate as a wide midfielder. He emerged in La Liga over the past several months after making only a handful of appearances between 2023 and 2024. This season, he has played 12 matches for Sevilla across the Spanish league and the Copa del Rey, recording two assists.

Oso’s personal background allows him to choose between two national teams. He was born in Torrevieja, Alicante, in July 2003, making him Spanish by birth. However, his parents are Argentine and moved to Europe more than two decades ago, meaning the young defender is also eligible to represent Argentina.

Where would Martinez Gauna have a better chance to play?

Given that Joaquin Martinez Gauna is primarily a left back, with the versatility to push further up the field if needed, the question becomes whether his profile better fits the current needs of Argentina or Spain.

Luis de la Fuente’s side currently have multiple options at that position. Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella is widely regarded as one of the most reliable players in the world in that role, while Spain also have Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde and Bayer Leverkusen’s Alejandro Grimaldo available.

Argentina, by contrast, have fewer established options in that area. Looking ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Nicolas Tagliafico is expected to remain the starting left back, but there is uncertainty about who will serve as his primary backup. Marcos Acuña could remain in contention, although his age (34) is a factor.

Other alternatives available to Lionel Scaloni include Bournemouth’s Julio Soler and RC Strasbourg’s Valentin Barco, both of whom have minimal experience with the senior national team. That scenario appears to tilt the balance toward Argentina when considering where Oso might have a clearer path to playing time.

Other players contested by Argentina and Spain

The shared language and cultural ties between Argentina and Spain have, for decades, led to significant migration between the two countries. During the first half of the 20th century, migration largely flowed from Europe to South America, while in this century the trend has largely reversed.

That dynamic has inevitably had an impact on soccer, with numerous players over the years forced to choose between the two nations. The most iconic case is Alfredo Di Stefano, who represented Argentina early in his career and later became a star for Spain after establishing himself at Real Madrid.

FIFA regulations now impose much stricter limits on such cases, requiring players to commit permanently once they represent a senior national team in official competition. Alejandro Garnacho and Nicolas Paz are recent examples of Spain-born players who represent Argentina because of their family roots. Lionel Messi himself could have taken the opposite path and chosen Spain, as he recently revealed, but ultimately committed to Argentina.

Mattia Zaccagni and Boulaye Dia insist they ‘respect’ the decision of Lazio ultras to boycott games, after a surreal Coppa Italia semi-final with Atalanta. ‘They made us feel their presence.’

It was a very entertaining match in the end, despite the rather strange atmosphere of playing in a stadium with just 5,000 fans in the stands, many more gathered outside the Stadio Olimpico in protest against Lazio President Claudio Lotito.

They had marched from the meeting point of Ponte Milvio all the way to the stadium before kick-off.

Throughout the match, they could be heard singing, cheering, and letting off fireworks, as they kept up with what was going on inside listening to the radio and watching on their phones.

Prosegue la contestazione in casa #Lazio prima della semifinale di andata di Coppa Italia contro l’Atalanta#Sportitalia #Lotito pic.twitter.com/dexzcLgwDx

— Sportitalia (@tvdellosport) March 4, 2026

The hosts took the lead twice with a Fisayo Dele-Bashiru lob and Dia pouncing on the Mario Pasalic error, but both times it lasted only a few minutes before Atalanta hit back with Pasalic and Yunus Musah for the 2-2 draw.

Lazio players felt support of the fans anyway

“It was a good performance, the right attitude, perhaps we just need to improve in our concentration, because we twice conceded straight after scoring. That should not happen,” Zaccagni told Sport Mediaset.

“The fans made us feel their presence in their own way. We respect their decision, it’s not easy to be without them, but it is their choice and we have to respect that.”

The Lazio supporters held a banner outside, declaring this was their ‘sacrifice’ for the good of the club, as most are season ticket holders and already had access to the match.

The Coppa Italia semi-final will therefore be decided in Bergamo on April 21 or 22, to see who goes through to face either Inter or Como in the Final.

“It was a very important goal for me, I hadn’t scored for a long time, but the disappointment is that we didn’t win. That really hurts,” Dia told Sport Mediaset.

“When the team works together, we do really well, we scored two goals and played a good game.”

Maurizio Sarri feels that if Lazio’s fans had been inside the Stadio Olimpico rather than protesting outside, ‘we could’ve taken the win home’ after the 2-2 Coppa Italia semi-final with Atalanta.

The Biancocelesti had twice taken the lead this evening, through a Fisayo Dele-Bashiru dinked finish and Boulaye Dia pouncing on the Mario Pasalic error.

However, both times Atalanta equalised within a few minutes, with Pasalic and the late Yunus Musah strike.

Sarri has Lazio regrets after first leg

“We are satisfied with the performance, because we played at a high level against a strong team during what has been a difficult period,” Sarri told Sport Mediaset.

“On the other hand, we have regrets over the results, although we know it would’ve been a battle in Bergamo even going there with a one-goal advantage.”

It all goes down to the second leg, which will be in Bergamo on April 21 or 22, to decide who goes through to face either Inter or Como in the Coppa Italia Final.

“We will go and fight for qualification there. If we play the way we did this evening, then we can do it.”

It was a surreal atmosphere in the practically deserted Stadio Olimpico, with only circa 5,000 tickets sold, but most of the Lazio fans still audible as they stood outside the arena, singing and letting off fireworks.

“The Serie A table is what it is due to a year where we suffered the absence of many players. We couldn’t really expect much more in these circumstances,” noted Sarri.

“Nonetheless, the team is showing signs that it can be competitive. The issue is doing that more consistently. Hopefully, from here to the end of the season we can keep almost all the players fit and healthy. It’s tough when you are constantly without six or seven players.”

The protest against President Claudio Lotito drags on and is certainly not helping the situation, as this Coppa Italia semi-final is their best chance of salvaging the season.

“Unfortunately, and I mean unfortunately, the team is getting used to this situation inside the stadium. It’s horrible to say, because this is a truly sad situation. Once again tonight we felt that if there were 45,000 in the stands, we could’ve maybe taken the win home.”

Daniel Maldini was used as a False 9, but also dropped deeper to create the space and provided the excellent assist for that Dele-Bashiru goal.

“Dele-Bashiru can run at 35km/h when he gets up a head of steam, so he can cause problems for anyone when making that run through the middle. Kenneth Taylor has different characteristics, he is better on the ball, but has less pace,” explained Sarri.

“In order to be more consistent, we’d need a set of strikers who can guarantee more goals. Unfortunately, we’ve been lacking there for various reasons this term, which means all it takes is one mistake and the lead is wiped out.

“We have also been down to the bare bones at times, especially in certain roles where injuries piled up at the same time. It is a squad that needs to be rebalanced, in my view.”

Raffaele Palladino relished the ‘entertaining’ 2-2 draw with Lazio that leaves Atalanta within reach of the Coppa Italia Final. ‘It’s wonderful to be in three competitions, but very tiring.’

La Dea are being stretched increasingly thin, as the only Italian representative left in the Champions League, also participating in the Coppa Italia semi-final, and pushing for a top four finish in Serie A.

They certainly do not lack determination, though, fighting back twice from a goal down to earn a 2-2 first leg semi-final draw away to Lazio.

Mario Pasalic cancelled out the Fisayo Dele-Bashiru dinked finish, then Yunus Musah responded immediately to Boulaye Dia pouncing on a Pasalic howler.

Palladino’s Atalanta never give in

“I think we had a very good game against a strong opponent. It was balanced, entertaining to watch, and when you face Sarri’s teams it is always enjoyable, as they have quality and can cause problems at any moment,” Palladino told Sport Mediaset.

“We had chances early on, a disallowed goal and hit the crossbar, we should’ve been more incisive in the final third. After the break, we went behind twice, but the team did well to get back into a deserved draw, one we believed in to the end.

“It was only the first half of this semi-final, the second will be on our turf.”

It all goes down to the second leg, which will be in Bergamo on April 21 or 22, the winners of that tie will go on to face either Inter or Como in the Final in May.

“The tie is open, it’s 50-50 and we want to reach the Final. We’re in front of our own fans, but that is a while away, so we’ll gain confidence from this performance,” continued Palladino.

Atalanta have shown they refuse to give in, turning around the 2-0 first leg defeat with Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League to beat them 4-1 in the second leg.

“Being in three competitions in March is something to be very proud of, in the Champions League Round of 16, Coppa Italia semi-final and Serie A, it’s wonderful, but also very tiring.”

This was the second consecutive game on target for Musah, as the USMNT midfielder had struggled to make an impact following his arrival from Milan.

“Musah is a player who hadn’t played much when I arrived, as he had Ederson and De Roon ahead of him, but undoubtedly he’s had more space with Ederson out injured. I told the lads that I need all of them to step up, especially off the bench, as Musah did it well against Sassuolo and again today,” confirmed the Atalanta coach.

“I really like Lazar Samardzic, he gets between the lines and has quality, but the problem is he needs to improve the level of choices and shots in the final third. He has what it takes, we need him to step up a level in his finishing, as he has goals and assists in his capabilities.”

Lazio twice took the lead in the Coppa Italia semi-final, only to be clawed back by Atalanta in a 2-2 thriller, as qualification goes down to the second leg in Bergamo.

These sides met in the 2019 Coppa Italia Final, with the Aquile winning 2-0, while La Dea returned the favour in Serie A only last month. It was the last chance for Maurizio Sarri to salvage the season, but while Pedro and Mario Gila returned, he was still missing Toma Basic, Nicolò Rovella and Samuel Gigot. Atalanta were in the race for the top four, the only Italian team left in the Champions League, and looking for a fourth Coppa Italia Final in eight seasons. Ederson, Charles De Ketelaere and Giacomo Raspadori remained on the treatment table.

It was a bizarre atmosphere, as only 5,000 fans were inside the stadium, with thousands of Lazio ultras gathered outside in protest at President Claudio Lotito. Atalanta fans were also limited to just over 100 by restrictions.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

Atalanta had the ball in the net after eight minutes with a sensational Davide Zappacosta control on a long Giorgio Scalvini ball, then his cross was nodded into the far bottom corner by Nikola Krstovic from 14 yards. However, Zappacosta was narrowly offside and the goal was disallowed by VAR.

Mario Pasalic’s header was just wide from a Lazar Samardzic free kick, but Zappacosta came so close when his acrobatic volley into the ground on a Lorenzo Bernasconi cross bounced off the crossbar with Ivan Provedel beaten.

Instead, Lazio took the lead within 60 seconds of the restart. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru sprinted through the middle, completing an inspired give and go with Daniel Maldini and dinking the finish over on-rushing Marco Carnesecchi. It was his first goal of the season and one of the best of his entire career.

It didn’t last long, as Provedel only parried a ferocious Samardzic strike into the path of Pasalic to turn in the rebound at the back post and draw Atalanta level.

Mario Pasalic brings Atalanta level!

His goal cancels out Dele-Bashiru's opener for Lazio pic.twitter.com/G8e79uCzkv

— Premier Sports (@PremSportsTV) March 4, 2026

Maldini squirmed away for a dangerous pull-back from the by-line, then Carnesecchi palmed a Kenneth Taylor strike round the upright after great work from Gustav Isaksen to ride two tackles.

Giorgio Scalvini limped off with a knee problem, but Pasalic went from hero to villain by gifting Lazio a goal. He tried to chest down the Nuno Tavares cross inside the area, the control was not what he had intended and it allowed Boulaye Dia to pounce on the loose ball, turning in from seven yards.

Boulaye Dia with a big goal for Lazio!

Not an easy night for the Biancocelesti with their fans boycotting, but their players have put in a performance pic.twitter.com/WTlCZk2F2Z

— Premier Sports (@PremSportsTV) March 4, 2026

However, once again the lead did not last long, because moments later Kamaldeen Sulemana managed to pull back from the left despite Adam Marusic marking, finding Yunus Musah to fire in first-time from 14 yards.

Lazio 2-2 Atalanta

Dele-Bashiru 47 (L), Pasalic 51 (A), Dia 87 (L), Musah 90 (A)

04-03-2026 20:00

1/2 Final

Stadio Olimpico

Lazio

Atalanta

2 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

23'

Marten de Roon

2nd half

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Assist: Daniel Maldini)		47'
		51'		Mario Pasalic
		69'		Mario Pasalic
Boulaye Dia		87'
		89'		Yunus Musah (Assist: Kamaldeen Sulemana)
		90+5'		Isak Hien

Match statistic

49

Possession %

51

6

Total shots

10

3

Shots on target

3

2

Shots off target

5

1

Blocked shots

2

1

Corners

3

1

Offsides

2

5

Fouls

13

Lazio

Atalanta

Starting lineups

94

Ivan Provedel

Goalkeeper

77

Adam Marusic

Defender

13

Alessio Romagnoli

Defender

34

Mario Gila

Defender

17

Nuno Tavares

Defender

27

Daniel Maldini

Midfielder

76'

32

Danilo Cataldi

Midfielder

7

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Midfielder

24

Kenneth Taylor

Midfielder

83'

18

Gustav Isaksen

Attacker

64'

10

Mattia Zaccagni

Attacker

76'

29

Marco Carnesecchi

Goalkeeper

77

Davide Zappacosta

Defender

42

Giorgio Scalvini

Defender

64'

4

Isak Hien

Defender

47

Lorenzo Bernasconi

Defender

23

Sead Kolasinac

Defender

76'

10

Lazar Samardžić

Midfielder

76'

8

Mario Pasalic

Midfielder

15

Marten de Roon

Midfielder

64'

59

Nicola Zalewski

Midfielder

90

Nikola Krstovic

Attacker

85'

Substitutes

9

Pedro

Attacker

4

Patric

Defender

29

Manuel Lazzari

Defender

23

Elseid Hysaj

Defender

55

Alessio Furlanetto

Goalkeeper

3

Luca Pellegrini

Defender

40

Edoardo Motta

Goalkeeper

20

Petar Ratkov

Attacker

25

Oliver Provstgaard

Defender

28

Adrian Przyborek

Attacker

22

Matteo Cancellieri

Attacker

64'

19

Boulaye Dia

Attacker

76'

14

Tijjani Noslin

Attacker

76'

21

Reda Belahyane

Midfielder

83'

16

Raoul Bellanova

Defender

31

Francesco Rossi

Goalkeeper

19

Berat Djimsiti

Defender

57

Marco Sportiello

Goalkeeper

5

Mitchel Bakker

Defender

45

Dominic Vavassori

Midfielder

3

Odilon Kossounou

Defender

64'

6

Yunus Musah

Midfielder

64'

7

Kamaldeen Sulemana

Midfielder

76'

69

Honest Ahanor

Defender

76'

9

Gianluca Scamacca

Attacker

85'