Struggling Juventus striker Jonathan David is reportedly of interest to Ligue 1 side Lyon after a disappointing first season in Serie A with the Bianconeri according to the latest reports.
David joined Juventus on a free transfer at the beginning of the summer transfer window following a five-year spell with Lille in Ligue 1, during which time he scored 109 goals from 232 appearances across all competitions.
The Canada international has struggled to replicate that form in Serie A, though. He has five goals and four assists to his name from league appearances so far this term.
David showed some encouraging signs in January and early February with four goals and two assists from a run of five league matches, but these have been his only goals in the league other than his strike on the opening day of the 2025-26 season.
Now, David appears to be falling down the pecking order in the Juventus striking department. He was hooked at half-time of Juventus’s 4-0 victory over Pisa in Serie A over the weekend, and watched on as his teammates scored four second-half goals in his absence.
Recent reports indicate that Luciano Spalletti is now inclined to stick with his ‘fluid front three’ for next weekend’s match against Udinese, leaving David out altogether. The Canadian’s opportunities are expected to be further reduced once Dusan Vlahovic makes his return from injury.
Could David return to Ligue 1 after less than a year with Juventus?
According to reports from Tuttosport and Calciomercato.com, David could potentially be poised to head back to Ligue 1 less than a year after he left Lille on a free transfer.
Lyon are said to be among the teams interested in a potential deal for David should he become available during the summer transfer window.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Jonathan David of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SSC Napoli at Juventus Stadium on January 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The French side, under the guidance of former Milan head coach Paulo Fonseca, are currently third in the Ligue 1 table, and it is understood that their interest in David is dependent on their qualification for next season’s Champions League. The top three teams in France are granted an automatic spot in the Champions League, with fourth-place earning a place in the play-offs.
David technically joined Juventus on a free transfer last summer, but the Bianconeri still spent a reported €12m on commission and signing-on fees, and are currently paying the striker a salary in the region of €6m per season after tax.
As reported by FcInternews, Chivu gave a brief reply to a reporter’s question during a post-match press conference last night, saying that Calhanoglu “wasn’t feeling well”, so he was not even involved as a substitute.
Calhanoglu, 32, has been dealing with several fitness issues in recent weeks. He missed seven games, five in Serie A and two in the Champions League, between January and February due to a calf problem.
He returned as a substitute against Juventus on February 14, playing for about 30 minutes, but then missed the next three matches due to a muscle injury.
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Last Tuesday, he started in the Coppa Italia semifinal first leg against Como and was replaced after 58 minutes.
The Turkish international has scored and provided four assists in 25 appearances across all competitions this season.
Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso will be waiting for updates from Inter and Arsenal as Azzurri stars Alessandro Bastoni and Riccardo Calafiori suffered injuries in their latest club appearances, barely two weeks before the World Cup play-off semifinal against Northern Ireland.
Italy defenders Bastoni and Calafiori sustained injuries over the last weekend, and the Azzurri will be waiting for updates from their clubs, Inter and Arsenal, ahead of a crucial match against Northern Ireland on the horizon.
Calafiori was subbed off during Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Mansfield Town on Saturday. After the match, the Gunners’ coach Mikel Arteta said Calafiori had had “little niggles” and wasn’t “comfortable continuing.”
Arsenal play Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday, and Arteta will likely provide a fresh update on Tuesday, the eve of the game.
LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 28: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between Arsenal FC and FC Kairat Almaty at Arsenal Stadium on January 28, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Bastoni, on the other hand, sustained an injury during Inter’s 1-0 loss against Milan in the derby della Madonnina on Sunday and had to be substituted after coming off worse in a challenge with Adrien Rabiot that even cost him a yellow card.
“He took a knock in the shin,” Inter coach Cristian Chivu said in his post-match press conference on Sunday.
“He was limping; we’ll see over the next few days, but it’s a knock.”
BARI, ITALY – AUGUST 16: Alessandro Bastoni of Inter during Pre-Season Friendly match between FC Internazionale and Olympiacos FC at Stadio San Nicola on August 16, 2025 in Bari, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
Inter players have a day off today, so, as reported by Gazzetta, the club’s medical staff will assess Bastoni’s condition on Tuesday.
Bastoni looked to be in a lot of pain and limped off the pitch, helped to the bench by Inter’s medical staff. Nevertheless, the Nerazzurri and Italy hope that 48 hours of rest will be enough for the defender to be fit for the next few matches.
Bastoni has made four appearances under Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso, missing one due to suspension and spending another entirely on the bench.
Calafiori has played three times under Gattuso, missing two matches due to injury and remaining on the bench once.
Italy host Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semifinal on March 26, and if they progress to the final, they will visit the winner of Wales-Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Refereeing expert Luca Marelli believes that Daniele Doveri was correct in his decision to not award a last-minute penalty to Inter after shouts for a Samuele Ricci handball at the end of Sunday evening’s Derby della Madonnina against Milan: ‘Not punishable’.
Milan claimed the bragging rights in Sunday’s derby: Pervis Estupinan’s first-half strike proving enough for the Rossoneri to hold onto a 1-0 victory. This was their second consecutive victory over Cristian Chivu’s side and their fifth in an unbeaten run of seven against the Nerazzurri.
Inter still remain seven points clear at the top of the Serie A table with 10 matches of the season left to play, but many claim that Milan are the only team remaining that is capable of putting any real pressure on the league leaders heading into the final stretch.
What Marelli said about Ricci handball incident in Milan 1-0 Inter
There were some appeals for an Inter penalty In the final minute of second-half stoppage time in San Siro on Sunday night.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Referee Daniele Doveri at the end of the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The ball did strike the arm of second-half substitute Ricci in the penalty area after a touch from Inter defender Denzel Dumfries, however, Doveri did not blow for a handball as he judged the player’s arm to be in a natural position and deemed that he had instinctively attempted to move his arm out of the way rather than moving towards the ball.
Speaking to DAZN after full-time on Sunday evening, refereeing expert Marelli agreed with the decision to not take further action in the closing minutes of the derby: “The touch isn’t punishable because the movement of his arm was to avoid, not create an obstacle,” he declared.
Inter legend Beppe Bergomi feels that Samuele Ricci’s handball in the final minutes of the Milan derby was worthy of a pitchside VAR review, but Milan legend Alessandro Costacurta is ‘pleased’ that such incidents will no longer be considered penalties.
Inter suffered a 1-0 loss against city rivals Milan on Sunday, but the Nerazzurri complained about a potential penalty in the dying minutes, when the Rossoneri midfielder Ricci unintentionally touched the ball with his arm inside the box.
“I believe the proximity influenced VAR’s evaluation. Up to now, penalties like these have always been given,” former Milan defender Costacurta told Sky Sport Italia (via Fanpage).
Costacurta, Di Canio and Bergomi examine Ricci’s handball in Milan derby
“However, I’m pleased that something has changed over the last two matchdays. In my opinion, this type of incident is never a penalty, but until two weeks ago, it was. I like that, from now on, it will no longer be considered such.
Alessandro Costacurta Commissioner of FIGC looks on before the International Friendly match between Italy U21 and Belgium U21 at Friuli Stadium on October 11, 2018 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“Until two weeks ago, we were complaining like crazy because they were giving these ridiculous penalties every time,” Costacurta continued.
“Apparently, they looked at it and made an assessment. Maybe it wasn’t a clear penalty after he didn’t block a shot. I ask myself, why are we wasting so much time on this?”
Paolo Di Canio, a former Milan, Lazio and Juventus striker, argued: “For me, the arm here stops the ball, which otherwise would have gone onto his side. In trying to pull his arm away, he slightly cushions the ball. The advantage gained from the instinctive movement to retract the arm is that the ball stays there.
“I’d just like to see the referee’s position again and whether he had a clear view. In that situation, maybe VAR could have suggested something, or at least asked him whether he had seen it clearly.”
CAGLIARI, ITALY – MARCH 01: Beppe Bergomi looks on during the Serie A match between Cagliari and FC Internazionale at Sardegna Arena on March 1, 2019 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
On the other hand, Inter legend Bergomi felt that the referee should have reviewed the incident on the pitchside monitor: “I’ve seen many penalties given this way, even less obvious ones. But I don’t want to fuel controversy,” said the 1982 Italy World Cup winner.
“The referee didn’t see it, and the player was close. In this case, VAR should intervene; I don’t know why it didn’t.”
Inter remain the Serie A table leaders with a seven-point lead over their city rivals.
The Nerazzurri have collected 22 wins in 28 league matches, drawing once and losing five times, including twice against their city rivals.
Many claim that Milan have ‘re-opened’ the race for the 2025-26 Scudetto with their 1-0 victory over Inter in the Derby della Madonnina on Sunday evening, but which of the two sides has the tougher run of fixtures heading into the final 10 matches of the season?
A first-half strike from unlikely hero Pervis Estupinan gave Milan all three points in their decisive derby against city rivals Inter in Serie A on Sunday night.
The Nerazzurri are still seven points clear at the top of the league standings with 10 games to go after last night’s defeat, with the Rossoneri the only side looking capable of applying any real pressure on Cristian Chivu’s side.
As things stand, Inter remain in control of the league table heading into the final 10 league games of the season, and they also have the slightly ‘easier’ run of fixtures compared to Milan in terms of the average league position of their remaining opponents.
The Nerazzurri still have challenging fixtures against the likes of Atalanta (home), Roma (home), Como (away) and Bologna (away) on the final day of the season, but the average league position of their remaining opponents comes out to 11.2.
The average ranking of Milan’s remaining opponents currently comes out to 10.7. They still have difficult challenges against Napoli (away), Juventus (home) and Atalanta (away) left on their schedule.
Inter’s remaining 2025-26 Serie A fixtures
Atalanta (7th) at home.
Fiorentina (17th) away.
Roma (5th) at home.
Como (4th) away.
Cagliari (14th) at home.
Torino (15th) away.
Parma (12th) at home.
Lazio (11th) away.
Verona (19th) home.
Bologna (8th) away.
Remaining home games: Five
Remaining away games: Five
Remaining matches against teams in the top six: Two
Average league position of remaining opponents: 11.2
Milan’s remaining 2025-26 Serie A fixtures
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Pervis Estupinan of AC Milan celebrates celebrates with his team-mates Adrien Rabiot and Youssouf Fofana after scoring their team’s team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Lazio (11th) away.
Torino (15th) at home.
Napoli (3rd) away.
Udinese (10th) at home.
Verona (19th) away.
Juventus (6th) at home.
Sassuolo (9th) away.
Atalanta (7th) away.
Genoa (13th) away.
Cagliari (14th) at home.
Remaining home games: Five
Remaining away games: Five
Remaining matches against teams in the top six: Two
Average league position of remaining opponents: 10.7
Arsenal are reportedly weighing up the possibility of sending young defender Myles Lewis-Skelly out on loan ahead of the 2026/27 season in order to accelerate his development.
According to Football Insider, the 19-year-old left-back could temporarily leave the Emirates Stadium after finding regular first-team opportunities limited in recent months.
Lewis-Skelly has started only one Premier League match since January, largely due to increased competition in Arsenal’s defensive unit.
Lewis-Skelly enjoyed a breakthrough period last season, making several appearances that showcased his composure on the ball ad his defensive quality.
His performances quickly earned praise from supporters and coaching staff, with many tipping him to become a long-term option in Arsenal’s defense.
However, the landscape at left-back has changed significantly this season. Arsenal strengthened their defensive depth with the additions of Piero Hincapié and Riccardo Calafiori, both of whom have become important options for manager Mikel Arteta.
Myles Lewis-Skelly celebrates after Arsenal’s win over Crystal Palace (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Everton are believed to be one of the clubs interested in securing Lewis-Skelly on a temporary deal.
The Merseyside side have been exploring options to strengthen their defensive depth and see the Arsenal youngster as a player who could bring energy and technical quality to their squad.
A loan move to Everton would also allow Lewis-Skelly to gain experience in the Premier League environment while continuing his development against high-level opposition.
Lewis-Skelly remains a player with significant potential, and the club are keen to ensure his progress continues.
If a deal with Everton or another Premier League club materialises this summer, it could provide the young defender with the consistent playing time needed to return to Arsenal stronger.
Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario could be considering a return to Serie A this summer as uncertainty continues to surround both the club’s season and his own long-term future.
Reports from Italian outlet Tuttosport suggest the Italian international is open to leaving north London at the end of the campaign, particularly if Tottenham fail to stabilise their Premier League form.
Spurs find themselves in a precarious position in the league table. Sitting 16th with 29 points from 29 matches, the club are hovering just one point above the relegation zone.
With several crucial fixtures remaining, the possibility of dropping into the Championship, once considered unthinkable for a club of Tottenham’s stature, has become a genuine concern.
Vicario has fallen out at Tottenham
Tottenham’s difficult season has been marked by managerial upheaval and inconsistent performances.
The departure of Thomas Frank earlier in the campaign led to the appointment of Igor Tudor on an interim basis, but the team has yet to find consistent form under the Croatian coach.
If relegation were to occur, the club could face a significant reshaping of the squad.
High-profile players often seek moves away from teams relegated from the Premier League, and Vicario is widely seen as one of Tottenham’s most valuable assets.
The Turin club are believed to be evaluating options in the goalkeeping department as they plan for the coming seasons.
Vicario previously impressed in Serie A during his time with Empoli, where his performances earned widespread recognition and eventually led to his move to Tottenham.
His reputation has continued to grow, particularly after he was elevated to Italy’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Reports suggest preliminary contact regarding a potential transfer has already taken place, although formal negotiations have yet to begin.
Fikayo Tomori says that Milan’s improved defensive solidity is the key behind their upturn in league form this season, and notes that ‘to play two games against Inter and not concede a goal isn’t easy’.
The Rossoneri have now won five of their last seven encounters against the Nerazzurri and are also unbeaten against them over that period. Sunday’s victory was also the second consecutive time that Massimiliano Allegri’s side have kept a clean sheet against Cristian Chivu’s side.
Tomori reacts to Milan 1-0 Inter: ‘To play two games against Inter and not concede a goal, it’s not easy’
The Rossoneri now find themselves seven points behind the table-topping Nerazzurri, and seem to be the only side capable of applying any real pressure on Cristian Chivu’s side heading into the final 10 games of the Serie A season.
Many of Milan’s players were asked after full-time against Inter whether they feel they are capable of closing down the seven-point gap between themselves and the Nerazzurri.
“Who knows,” said Tomori in a post-match interview with CBS Sports.
“I think at this point in time we just have to focus on ourselves. Obviously tonight was an important game, happy to have won. A good performance against a very, very good team.
“The derby is always a special game and always a difficult game. We’re just focussed on winning, happy to have done that. Now we just have to go onto the next game, rest and recover, enjoy tonight. Just focus on ourselves like I said, keep going and try to finish the season as strongly as possible.”
Tomori was asked where the Milan players would be celebrating following their victory, to which he jokingly replied: “I’m not sure. I don’t want the Mister to hear me, so I just have to stay quiet!”
Tomori insists that Milan needed no additional motivation heading into the Inter match, and feels that his side could have easily had another couple of goals to their name before the interval.
“I think in these kinds of games the Mister doesn’t really have to say too much because it’s a derby, you know how important it is for the club, for ourselves, for the fans, everyone.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Francesco Pio Esposito of Inter competes with Fikayo Tomori of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“The way that we approached the game in the first half, we put them under pressure, we had chances to score. Obviously we did score in the first half, but we had a lot of really dangerous opportunities and probably could have scored more.
“At the end of the day and especially at this stage of the season, three points is all that really matters, so yeah, we’re really happy.”
Tomori agrees that playing on the right-hand side of Massimiliano Allegri’s back three is helping to get the best out of him this season.
“Yeah, I think so. I think I can show the different qualities that I have,” he said. “Obviously my first job is to defend, so try to do that, try to do my job first, but I think in games like today where there’s a bit of space, I can affect the game going forwards.”
Milan are in second place in Serie A with 10 games left to go. They look set to secure Allegri’s goal of Champions League qualification, and despite being seven points shy of the league leaders, this is a vast improvement on the form that saw them finish ninth last season.
Tomori believes that Milan’s defensive security has been the secret behind their improvement this season.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 02: Mike Maignan of AC Milan celebrates victory with teammates Fikayo Tomori and Strahinja Pavlovic after the Serie A match between AC Milan and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“One of the main objectives for us was to concede less goals and I think this season we’ve been a lot more solid defensively, not just the defenders, but the whole team as a unit.
“We’ve worked a lot and worked a lot on trying to stay compact as a team. To play two games against Inter and not concede a goal, it’s not easy. I think that’s testament to how well we’ve been working and the work that the coaching staff has been doing with us this season.”
Manuel Akanji expressed his disappointment at Inter’s performance during their 1-0 loss against city rivals Milan on Sunday evening, and explained why last night’s defeat differed to their loss against the Rossoneri earlier this season: ‘Today was different. It wasn’t good enough from our side’.
Akanji reacts to Milan 1-0 Inter: ‘Wasn’t good enough from our side’
The Nerazzurri slipped to their second Serie A defeat against Milan of the 2025-26 season as Pervis Estupinan struck with the only goal of the game in San Siro on Sunday night.
Cristian Chivu’s side still have a commanding seven-point lead at the top of the Serie A table with 10 league matches of the season left to play, but there is disappointment around the camp in the aftermath of Sunday’s defeat against their city rivals.
“I think they played the way we expected them to play. They try to press a bit up front, if it doesn’t work, they drop deep and that’s what they did, especially in the first half,” explained Akanji in his post-match interview with CBS Sports.
“We had a lot of missed passes or duels that we lost, or we gave them opportunities by losing the ball easily. And also we didn’t defend well in a couple of situations and that’s why we lost the game in the end.”
Inter will make it two Serie A titles in three years if they hold out for the Scudetto in 2025-26. They have also reached the Champions League final in two of the last four seasons and have won the Coppa Italia and Supercoppa Italia twice within the last five campaigns.
If there is a recurring complaint about Cristian Chivu’s side, though, it is that they have struggled to overcome ‘bigger’ sides in the league and Champions League this term. The Nerazzurri have also failed to beat Milan in any of their last seven encounters.
“I mean, I’ve only played in the last two, today and the one in the first part of the season and for me, they were totally different games,” said Akanji.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Rafael Leao of AC Milan competes for the ball with Manuel Akanji of Inter during the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“The first one we dominated them, we had so many chances to score goals, we even missed a penalty. So, we clearly had enough chances to win the game. They had one opportunity and they scored the goal, that’s why they won the game.
“Today was different. It wasn’t good enough from our side. A lot of lost duels, a lot of balls that we should have kept that we lost. Just way too many mistakes and also sometimes in the duels, we weren’t aggressive enough and that’s why we lost today.
“I think as a team we didn’t create enough opportunities up front. We tried to cross the ball, but nothing really happened, not off the crosses. But still we had good opportunities to score a goal.
“I think right before they scored the goal for 1-0, Mkhi (Henrikh Mkhitaryan) runs alone at the keeper and couldn’t score. And even in the second half when Mkhi laid it off to Dima (Federico Dimarco) to score a goal and I think there were also a couple of opportunities with the corner that we had that the referee apparently blew the whistle before. Then a couple of situations where it maybe could have been a penalty.
“So we tried to create something but I think it just wasn’t enough from our side today.”
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Referee Daniele Doveri at the end of the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter after AC Milan 1-0 Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Naturally disappointed by Sunday’s defeat against Milan, Akanji insists that he is still trying to look at the positives.
“The next few days are not going to be good. You’re never happy when you lose a derby. The good thing is that we’re still seven points ahead and we have enough time to recover. The next game is not until next Saturday at home against Atalanta, which is a big game, but we will be ready again.
“We need to make better what we didn’t do good today and I’m confident we can get the win there.”
Luka Modric claims that Milan would be ‘right there with Inter’ had they performed better in ‘small games’ following Sunday evening’s 1-0 victory in the Derby della Madonnina in Serie A.
Modric reacts to Milan 1-0 Inter victory
The former Ballon d’Or winner was one of the crucial figures in Milan’s 1-0 victory over their city rivals, Inter, whose lead at the top of the Serie A table has now been reduced to seven points with 10 league games of the season left to play.
The main topic surrounding Milan following last night’s victory over Inter is whether there is a genuine possibility that they can catch Inter at the top of the standings with 10 points to go.
“It’s difficult to say. People always say you win titles in small games, especially in the league,” said Modric in an interview with CBS Sports after full-time.
“We haven’t done well in these sorts of games, we lost too many points, if we’d won only half of these points, we’d be there with Inter. But it’s part of football.
“We need to find a way to improve and get better in these games where teams drop too deep, there’s not much space. We need to find a way to do better and maybe play quicker, find a better solution to win these kinds of games.”
Milan claimed the bragging rights in Sunday evening’s Derby della Madonnina against Inter in Serie A, but there were some complaints from the Nerazzurri camp over a potential handball and a few other decisions from the officials after full-time. Here is what happened at the end of last night’s showdown in San Siro.
Pervis Estupinan’s first-half strike was enough for Milan to claim a 1-0 victory over Inter on Sunday evening, which was their second win over the Nerazzurri in Serie A this season and has extended their unbeaten run against their city rivals to seven matches.
Cristian Chivu’s side retain a seven-point advantage over the Rossoneri at the top of the league table with 10 games to go, though.
Which refereeing calls upset Inter during derby defeat?
There were protests from many of the Inter camp towards referee Daniele Doveri and his team after full-time in San Siro on Sunday night.
The main incident in question was a supposed handball from Samuele Ricci during the 95th minute of play right at the end of last night’s derby.
The ball had come off Denzel Dumfries and did touch Ricci on the arm, but the player’s arm was adjudged to have been in a natural position and he did appear to make an instinctive movement in an attempt to avoid handling the ball.
Referee Doveri decided that Ricci did not make himself ‘unnaturally larger’ with the movement of his arm, and that the incident was not worthy of a penalty kick.
Speaking on the incident after full-time, Nerazzurri head coach Chivu said: “I was told the VAR checked it, so I have nothing to add. I am focused on the performance, on my decisions, my mistakes.
“There are 10 games to go, 30 points up for grabs, so we’ve got to build on what we’ve done so far.”
MONZA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 04: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, looks on prior to the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between FC Internazionale and Torino at U-Power Stadium on February 04, 2026 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Aside from the penalty appeal, members of Inter’s coaching staff, including assistant Aleksandar Kolarov, were also frustrated by the addition of six minutes of stoppage time at the end of the second-half, which they felt was not enough.
There was also a moment just before the handball appeal where Carlos Augusto had the ball in the back of the net from a corner, however, Doveri had already blown his whistle while the ball was still in mid-air in order to stop some scuffling in the area.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Referee Daniele Doveri shows the yellow card to Alessandro Bastoni of Inter during the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Corriere dello Sport suggests that Doveri could have been dished out a couple more yellow cards on the night: Specifically to Estupinan for a foul on Nicolo Barella, to Adrien Rabiot for a foul on Federico Dimarco, to Fikayo Tomori for a foul on Piotr Zielinski and to Ange-Yoan Bonny for a foul on Estupinan.
Aston Villa are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing West Ham United forward Jarrod Bowen during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Sources circulating on social media platform X claim the Midlands club have made initial enquiries regarding the England international’s availability.
While no formal bid has yet been submitted, the situation has drawn attention because Bowen is believed to be open to considering a new challenge at the end of the current season.
Bowen has been a consistent performer for West Ham
Bowen has been a pivotal figure for West Ham, captaining the side in recent seasons.
The versatile forward quickly established himself as one of the Hammers’ most reliable attacking players, combining pace, creativity, and a consistent eye for goal.
Over the past few seasons, Bowen has frequently been among West Ham’s top contributors in terms of goals and assists.
His ability to operate across the front line, primarily from the right wing but also centrally when required, has made him a key tactical asset.
Why Aston Villa are interested in a move for Bowen
Jarrod Bowen in action for West Ham (Photo by James Fearn/Getty Images)
Since Emery’s arrival, Villa have steadily strengthened their squad with players capable of competing both domestically and in European competitions.
Bowen’s profile fits well within that strategy. His high pressing intensity, ability to create chances, and experience in the Premier League could provide Villa with another dynamic attacking option.
The club has already demonstrated a willingness to invest in proven top-flight talent, and Bowen’s consistency makes him an attractive target.
Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson has confirmed that Tottenham Hotspur expressed interest in signing him during the January transfer window, but the Scotland international ultimately chose to remain at Anfield.
he experienced defender addressed the speculation in recent comments reported by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, clarifying that he decided to stay with the club that has defined his career over the past decade.
Robertson remains an important figure in Liverpool’s squad despite ongoing discussions about the club’s long-term plans in defense.
Tottenham were interested in January move for Robertson
Tottenham were reportedly exploring options to strengthen the left side of their defence during the winter window, and Robertson’s experience and leadership made him an attractive candidate.
The Scottish international has long been regarded as one of the Premier League’s most consistent full-backs, known for his relentless work rate, attacking delivery, and defensive resilience.
Andy Robertson of Liverpool in action (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Since joining Liverpool from Hull City in 2017, Robertson has become one of the club’s most influential players.
Under former manager Jürgen Klopp, he formed a legendary full-back partnership with Trent Alexander-Arnold that helped redefine Liverpool’s attacking system.
During his time at the club, Robertson has played a key role in numerous successes, including the Premier League title, Champions League triumph, FA Cup, and League Cup victories.
His leadership qualities have also made him a senior figure in the dressing room.
While Tottenham’s interest highlighted the continued demand for Robertson’s experience, the defender’s decision to stay shows his deep connection with Liverpool.
Any decision regarding his next chapter is likely to come later this year as Liverpool continue planning their future squad.
Real Madrid are reportedly renewing their efforts to sign Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.
According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, the La Liga giants have resumed discussions with the French centre-back’s representatives as they explore the possibility of bringing him to the Santiago Bernabéu.
Konaté’s contract situation at Liverpool remains unresolved, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the season.
Contract situation raises concern for Konate at Liverpool
Konaté has been an important part of Liverpool’s defensive setup. However, Liverpool now face a potentially complicated situation.
Reports indicate that negotiations over a contract extension have yet to progress, leaving the club at risk of losing one of their key defenders on a free transfer.
The uncertainty surrounding contracts has become a topic of discussion at Anfield recently.
As per the report, the Spanish giants have ‘resumed talks’ with the representatives of French defender.
The Spanish giants have frequently taken advantage of expiring contracts in recent years, signing high-profile players without paying large transfer fees.
The Premier League club lost Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid last summer and this summer, Konate could join his former teammate at the Bernabeu.
Madrid president Florentino Pérez would be willing to offer Konaté a significant signing-on bonus, believed to be around €15 million, to persuade the defender to make the move to Spain as a free agent.
Liverpool remain hopeful of resolving the issue, but the lack of progress in negotiations has opened the door to external interest.
Estupinan decides they derby: Diavolo -7 off the top
Allegri does the double: ‘They remain the favourites though’. Cardinale’s celebrations. Nerazzurri minimal in spite of the absences. Chivu: ‘We were below par’
Champions League crazy
A three-way race for one spot
De Rossi beats Roma. Historic Como: They’re fourth. And Juve are -1 behind and believe
Corriere dello Sport
l’Allegrata
Scudetto, 10 games to go | Short leash: Max also takes the Derby in the return leg (1-0)
Milan ruthless: -7 points behind and dreaming. Inter buried
Estupinan delivers defeat to the Nerazzurri, who last lost in Serie A against Allegri on November 23. Chivu: ‘Ricci’s hand in the area? They told me there was a check’
De Rossi puts Roma in trouble
Genoa shock Gasp: 2-1
Messias and Vitinha lift DDR’s side, Ndicka not enough. Champions League race: Malen at Fabregas’s house on Sunday
Juve, Lucio’s turning point
The fluid front three
Napoli, the Fab4 return
After 160 days
Nicola at risk
Cremonese beaten by Lecce (2-1)
Tuttosport
StraMilan
Inter, derby nightmare: Estupinan reopens the Scudetto fight
The Ecuadorian was the surprise hero. In the second half, Dimarco misses the equaliser, then chaos at the end: Carlos Augusto denied a goal (but Doveri has already ended the game) and protests over a touch of the hand from Ricci. Allegri gives another lesson to Chivu and goes back to -7 points off the lead. Inter, who have not beaten Milan in seven games, pay for the absences of Lautaro and Thuram: Pio and Bonny dry. Bastoni still subjected to boos
Yildiz, Vlahovic, Boga: Attack on the Champions League
Roma beaten in Genoa: Juve -1 off fourth place
The magic of Kenan, the recovery of Dusan and the numbers from Jeremie are the prime assets for Spalletti in the final push. And the schedule could help too: The Bianconeri could profit from the direct clash between Como and the Giallorossi next Sunday. The David case: Disheartened and in crisis: Heading towards a farewell and Lyon step forwards
Safety and contract: Toro, time for Che
D’Aversa relaunches him
Adams could return as a starter against Parma and Petrachi looks to extend the contract agreement. The fan’s strike continues: The club try with discounted tickets
Arsenal are preparing to complete the permanent signing of defender Piero Hincapié from Bayer Leverkusen this summer, with the deal expected to be formally confirmed in June.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the agreement was always intended to become permanent despite initially being structured as a loan arrangement.
The move is considered a formality within Arsenal’s recruitment plans.
The loan structure was reportedly designed primarily to help the club manage Financial Fair Play (FFP) requirements, with the long-term transfer already agreed between the two clubs.
Deal structure and financial details of Hincapie’s move
The agreement between Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen is understood to be worth €52 million, with an additional 10 percent sell-on clause included in the deal.
The initial loan format allowed Arsenal to spread the financial impact of the transfer across multiple accounting periods, a strategy increasingly used by clubs to remain compliant with financial regulations.
In that case, Raya initially joined on loan before the transfer was completed permanently in a later window.
By structuring the Hincapié move in a similar way, Arsenal were able to secure a key defensive target while maintaining financial flexibility during the current season.
Piero Hincapie of Arsenal (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Hincapié has earned a strong reputation in European football during his time with Bayer Leverkusen, where he developed into one of the Bundesliga’s most reliable young defenders.
The Ecuador international is known for his composure on the ball, defensive aggression, and ability to operate across multiple positions in the back line.
Primarily a centre-back, Hincapié is also comfortable playing as a left-sided defender in a back three or even as a left-back when required.
This versatility makes him particularly valuable and his form at Arsenal has shown why he is highly rated by Mikel Arteta and his coaching staff.
The signing adds depth and flexibility to a defensive unit that has been central to the club’s recent progress.
Real Madrid have reportedly stepped up their monitoring of Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, with scouts attending the FA Cup this weekend to watch the Italian international in action.
According to The Sun, the Spanish giants are among several top European clubs keeping close tabs on the 25-year-old ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.
Tonali remains an integral part of Newcastle’s midfield setup and has not publicly expressed any desire to leave St. James’ Park.
However, his consistent performances in the Premier League and on the international stage have inevitably attracted attention from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Tonali has been hugely important for Newcastle United
Known for his composure on the ball, tactical intelligence, and tireless work rate, the Italian midfielder has become a cornerstone of Eddie Howe’s system.
His ability to recover possession, break opposition lines with forward passes, and maintain composure under pressure has made him a standout performer in the Premier League.
These qualities have helped Newcastle strengthen their position as one of England’s rising forces.
The club’s ownership group has repeatedly emphasised their intention to build a squad capable of competing both domestically and in Europe, making Tonali a key figure in their long-term plans.
Europe’s elite are showing interest in the Italian star
Sandro Tonali waves to the Newcastle United fans (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Real Madrid’s scouting visit shows the level of admiration Tonali commands across the continent.
The Spanish giants have been gradually reshaping their midfield in recent years, integrating younger talents as they prepare for the next generation of the team.
Reports suggest Madrid see Tonali as a potential addition who could bring both technical quality and tactical balance to their midfield.
Liverpool are preparing for a significant reshaping of their midfield as the club looks ahead to the next phase of its long-term project, according to a trusted source on X.
The Merseyside club have identified Inter Milan’s Nicolò Barella and Nottingham Forest playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White as two of the primary targets for a summer rebuild in the centre of the pitch.
The move shows Liverpool’s intent to refresh one of the most crucial areas of the squad after an inconsistent campaign.
Despite moments of promise this season, the midfield has struggled at times to control matches with the authority that once defined Liverpool’s most successful sides.
Why Liverpool are targeting Barella
Barella has long been considered one of Europe’s most complete midfielders.
The Italian international has played a key role for Inter Milan in recent seasons, helping the club remain competitive domestically and in European competitions.
Barella is widely admired for his ability to influence games both defensively and offensively.
He combines tireless pressing with precise passing and late attacking runs into the box, making him an ideal fit for teams that rely on high intensity and quick transitions.
Manchester United have reportedly added Bournemouth midfielder Marcus Tavernier to their list of potential transfer targets as they prepare for the upcoming summer window.
According to The Daily Mail, the 26-year-old has caught the attention of United’s recruitment team after an impressive season in the Premier League.
United are evaluating several midfield options as part of their broader squad rebuild.
Tavernier has consistently impressed at Bournemouth
Tavernier has been one of Bournemouth’s most influential players during the 2025/26 campaign.
The versatile midfielder has contributed nine goal involvements in 25 Premier League appearances, combining creative playmaking with a strong work rate in central and wide midfield roles.
Originally developed at Middlesbrough, Tavernier earned a reputation for his technical ability and attacking instinct before moving to Bournemouth.
His ability to operate in multiple midfield roles has made him particularly valuable. Tavernier can play as an advanced midfielder, drift wide to create overloads, or contribute deeper in the build-up phase.
Man United face competition from Premier League clubs
Marcus Tavernier of Bournemouth in action (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Man United are not the only side monitoring Tavernier’s progress. Aston Villa have also shown interest in the player and reportedly made enquiries about his availability during the January transfer window.
Villa manager Unai Emery is known for valuing energetic midfielders who can contribute both defensively and offensively, making Tavernier a logical target for the Midlands club.
For United, however, any serious pursuit may depend on whether they secure qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
Participation in the competition would significantly boost the club’s revenue and provide greater financial flexibility in the transfer market.
Manchester City could be preparing to say goodbye to one of the defining players of their modern era.
According to transfer journalist Matteo Moretto, midfielder Bernardo Silva is expected to leave the club on a free transfer this summer, bringing an end to a remarkable nine-year spell at the Etihad Stadium.
There have reportedly been no discussions between Silva and Man City regarding a contract extension.
Since joining Man City from AS Monaco in 2017, Silva has been a central figure in Pep Guardiola’s highly successful project.
His intelligence, work rate, and technical brilliance made him one of Guardiola’s most trusted players, capable of operating in multiple positions across midfield and attack.
Over the years, Silva has played a pivotal role in City’s domestic dominance. During his time at the club, he helped deliver six Premier League titles, numerous domestic cups, and the club’s historic Champions League triumph.
His versatility allowed Guardiola to deploy him as a winger, central midfielder, or even in deeper creative roles depending on the tactical demands of a match.
Why the Portuguese midfielder is expected to leave
Bernardo Silva of Manchester City (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Despite his continued importance to the team, speculation about Silva’s future has surfaced repeatedly over the past few years.
Clubs in Spain and the Saudi Pro League have shown interest at various points, with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain previously linked with potential moves.
The lack of progress on contract talks suggests that both player and club may now be prepared to move on.
Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimarães is expected to be one of the most closely watched players in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffsidethat Manchester United consider the Brazilian midfielder as an ideal replacement of Casemiro who is set to leave the Red Devils at the end of the season.
Several of Europe’s top clubs continue to track the Brazilian international, whose performances over the past few seasons have elevated him into the elite tier of Premier League midfielders.
Despite the growing external interest, Newcastle remain determined to secure Guimarães’ long-term future.
The club is currently engaged in discussions aimed at extending his contract and reinforcing his role as a central figure in their project.
Newcastle United want to keep the 28-year-old midfielder
Guimarães has become one of Newcastle’s most influential players. His combination of technical quality and relentless work rate has made him the heartbeat of Eddie Howe’s midfield.
The Brazilian has also emerged as a leader on and off the pitch. His ability to dictate tempo, recover possession, and contribute offensively has been instrumental in Newcastle’s rise from relegation candidates to contenders for European places.
Because of his importance, Newcastle are keen to extend his contract beyond its current terms. The proposed agreement is intended not only to reward his performances but also to discourage potential suitors ahead of what could be a hectic summer transfer window.
Inter Miami co-owner recently revealed to Bloomberg that he pays Lionel Messi in between $70M and $80M, opening questions over the biggest pay package the star has perceived over his career.
Lionel Messi‘s extraordinary performances on the soccer field have made him one of the highest-paid athletes in sports history, and even after leaving Europe behind, his earnings have kept climbing. Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has revealed that the club pays the Argentine star somewhere in the range of $70 million to $80 million annually, raising the question of whether this represents the most lucrative deal of his career.
In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Mas offered a rare glimpse into the club’s finances, noting that sponsorships and commercial deals account for roughly 55% of Inter Miami‘s revenue. That commercial success has been fueled by the global appeal of world-class names like Luis Suárez, Rodrigo De Paul and, above all, Messi himself, while media rights make up just 2% of total revenue, according to the co-owner.
It was in that context that Mas dropped the headline figure. “The reason that I need to have sponsors and for them to be world class is because players are expensive. I pay Messi — worth every penny — but it’s $70 to $80 million a year. Across everything,” the Inter Miami co-owner said.
Inter Miami CF owner Jorge Mas celebrates with Lionel Messi #10.
The MLSPA’s salary guide, released in October 2025 ahead of Messi’s contract extension through 2028, listed his base salary at $12 million and his guaranteed compensation at $20.5 million. Mas’ figure, however, takes a much broader view, encompassing not only salary but also equity rights and other forms of player compensation.
Is this Messi’s biggest deal in his club career?
Messi has long since transcended soccer to become a global brand in his own right, with business ventures spanning luxury hotels (MiM Hotels), his own clothing line (The Messi Store), sports drink brand Más+, and co-ownership of Uruguayan side Deportivo LSM alongside teammate Luis Suárez, among numerous other interests. But when it comes to direct compensation from his club, the numbers at Inter Miami are not quite unprecedented in his career.
In 2017, Messi signed what would turn out to be his final and most lucrative contract with FC Barcelona, running through June 2021. As revealed by El Mundo, the deal amounted to a total gross of 555,237,619 euros (around $673 million) over four seasons, working out to approximately €138.8M per year before taxes, or a net figure of around €74.9M annually (roughly $86.4 million), placing it above even the range Jorge Mas referenced for Messi’s current Inter Miami arrangement.
That contract was the largest in the history of soccer at the time it was signed. It incorporated a fixed salary, image rights, a series of unprecedented signing and loyalty bonuses, per diems and a wide range of performance-based incentives. Ultimately, the deal’s staggering financial weight contributed to Barcelona’s well-documented economic crisis, and played a central role in Messi’s abrupt and emotional departure from the club in 2021.
Lamine Yamal scored the only goal as Barcelona restored their four-point lead at the top of LaLiga with a narrow 1-0 win away to Athletic Club on Saturday. Having seen Real Madrid close the gap following their dramatic win over Celta Vigo a day earlier, Hansi Flick’s side responded to stay clear of their Clasico […]
After winning the Champions League last season, PSG star Vitinha addressed the key difference between the current squad and the team when the attacking trio of Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappé were still part of it.
Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Neymar formed one of the most dangerous attacking combinations in recent soccer history at Paris Saint-Germain, yet their individual brilliance repeatedly failed to translate into collective European success. Now, with PSG finally having claimed the UEFA Champions League, squad star Vitinha has shed light on the key difference between that star-studded trio and the current crop of European champions.
The rationale behind assembling three of the world’s most expensive players was always to deliver Champions League glory, but across the two seasons the trio played together in 2021-22 and 2022-23, PSG failed to advance beyond the Round of 16 on both occasions. With all three since departed, a cohesive and tactically disciplined side built by Luis Enrique has delivered the trophy that Nasser Al-Khelaïfi’s project had long been chasing.
Speaking on the program Soltinhos pelo Mundo on Canal 11, Vitinha reflected warmly on sharing a locker room and a pitch with three of the most iconic forwards of the modern era: “It was a privilege to have shared a locker room and the pitch with them, to have learned from them. They really are players apart—they are extraterrestrials, they are stars, and they perceive things that we don’t.”
That admiration, however, came with a candid observation about where the arrangement fell short. “That doesn’t mean it’s always what’s best for the team. And that is what ended up happening. It’s very difficult when one, two, or three players don’t run or don’t help out on defense,” the midfielder stated.
Vitinha of Paris Saint-Germain lifts the UEFA Champions League.
Little has changed on that front for any of the three forwards since their time together in Paris. Messi and Neymar may be less relevant to the conversation given age and injury respectively, but Real Madrid have had to contend with the same issue from Mbappé this season. The reality is that, had the trio remained together, PSG’s defensive structure would have been carrying three significant voids from the front.
“Today’s game is increasingly competitive. Even a team fighting against relegation knows how to organize and make life difficult for the opponent. That makes it very hard in modern football when one, two, or three players aren’t running,” Vitinha added.
High pressing: PSG’s signature during the last Champions League
PSG caught the soccer world off guard in the second half of the 2024-25 season, emerging as one of the most compelling and fearsome sides in Europe through a combination of relentless intensity and technical quality spread across every line of the pitch. The numbers back it up: João Neves led the entire Champions League in ground covered, logging an extraordinary 106.17 miles (170.87 km) throughout the competition.
Vitinha, widely regarded as the second-best player at PSG behind Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, summed up what makes this incarnation of the club so different from its predecessor: “You see the wingers chasing down the fullbacks when they attack. You see Ousmane Dembélé and Gonçalo Ramos dropping back to defend in our own box and being the first ones to press high up the pitch.“
Lionel Messi, Neymar and Kylian Mbappe of Paris Saint-Germain
While a new venue has emerged, the Finalissima between Lionel Messi’s Argentina vs. Lamine Yamal’s Spain is reportedly nearing a final decision.
The Finalissima has been shrouded in uncertainty due to the ongoing situation in Qatar, with the highly anticipated clash between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal stuck in a prolonged state of limbo. As a new host venue has emerged as a frontrunner, the parties responsible for organizing the Argentina vs. Spain showdown are reportedly closing in on a final decision.
Against that backdrop, RNE Deportes reports that a high-level meeting is set to take place on Monday to reach a definitive resolution. The meeting will bring together UEFA, representing Spain, CONMEBOL, representing Argentina, and representatives of the Qatari government, which has been a key stakeholder pushing to retain the match.
Estadio da Luz proposed as new Finalissima venue
Even though the situation in Qatar has not dramatically escalated since the incidents of early March, both continental confederations are prioritizing the safety and security of Messi, Yamal and all those who would need to travel to Doha, a city currently considered unsuitable for hosting the game. While Qatar would only walk away from its contractual obligations as a last resort, alternative venues have been actively surfacing.
General view of the Estadio da Luz.
According to the Spanish outlet, the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon, Portugal, has emerged as the leading candidate to host the Finalissima. Rome’s Stadio Olimpico has also been put forward as a potential alternative, though the Lisbon option is understood to be well ahead in consideration.
In recent days, a number of other countries have been floated as possibilities, including the United States, Spain, Argentina and England. The U.S. has been ruled out given its direct involvement in the same regional tensions affecting Qatar, while staging the game in either Spain or Argentina has been dismissed due to the home advantage it would confer on one of the competing nations.
A return to Wembley, where Messi lifted the Finalissima trophy in the 2022 edition, was also floated as a sentimental option, but the March 27 date is already occupied by a Uruguay vs. England fixture at the stadium, making it unavailable. With a decision now imminent, all parties are aligned on one priority: ensuring the Finalissima goes ahead, with the venue set to be the defining topic on the table come Monday.
Lionel Messi of Argentina and Lamine Yamal of Spain.
Federico Dimarco admits it’s ‘difficult to explain’ Inter’s sluggish response with Milan, but insists ‘if someone told us eight months ago we’d be seven points clear, we wouldn’t believe you.’
The Nerazzurri looked disjointed after losing both first choice strikers, as Marcus Thuram was out with flu symptoms and Lautaro Martinez injured.
While Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Dimarco missed big chances, Milan were clinical when Pervis Estupinan ran onto the Youssouf Fofana through ball and surprised Yann Sommer at the near post.
Dimarco saw Inter struggle in Milan Derby
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Federico Dimarco of Inter shows his dejection at the end of the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Milan dropped very deep after their goal, as was entirely to be expected, and the truth is that we created too little to really hurt them,” Dimarco told DAZN Italia.
“We had prepared the match with a low-to-medium block so we could increase the press. When it came to my chance, the ball bobbled and I didn’t connect properly.”
They had been unbeaten in the league since the last Derby della Madonnina, which also ended 1-0 back in November 2025, putting together a 2-2 draw with Napoli and 14 victories.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan competes for the ball with Piotr Zielinski of Inter during the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“When we concede a goal, we struggle to react a lot of the time, or rather we don’t react with enough determination,” confessed Dimarco.
“It is difficult to explain why we do that. The team is united, we are having a great season and are still seven points clear at the top, after all.
“We’ve got to stay calm, because our fate is still entirely in our hands.”
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Yann Bisseck of Inter competes for the ball with Pervis Estupinanof AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The result means Inter see their lead at the top of the Serie A table cut to seven points, which is still a significant advantage at this stage of the season with 10 rounds left to play.
It is put to the Nerazzurri that they have a poor record in the ‘big’ games, managing only two wins, one draw and three defeats in the Serie A fixtures against Milan, Napoli, Roma and Juventus.
“You say that, but if someone had told us eight months ago that we’d be seven points clear at the top of the table, we wouldn’t have believed you,” insisted Dimarco.
“We’ve got to stay clear-headed and focus on these remaining 10 matches.”
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Referee Daniele Doveri shows the yellow card to Adrien Rabiot of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Inter were also angry in stoppages when Denzel Dumfries nodded the ball onto Samuele Ricci’s elbow from close range inside the penalty area.
“I didn’t see it, as I was on the other side of the pitch. Watching the video, the arm is quite wide, so it’s down to the interpretation of the referee. There could’ve been a VAR check.”
Former coach Xavi Hernandez revealed that Lionel Messi could've returned to Barcelona after winning the 2022 World Cup, but the move ended up being turned down by president Joan Laporta over a "power war" between the two.
Lionel Messi‘s departure from FC Barcelona in 2021 was one of the most painful moments in the club’s recent history, and both the player and the institution were eager to find a way to reunite. But former coach Xavi Hernández has now revealed that a return following Messi’s 2022 World Cup triumph was ultimately blocked by club president Joan Laporta, who feared it would trigger a “power war” he could not afford.
With Messi’s two-year deal at Paris Saint-Germain set to expire at the end of the 2022-23 season and his relationship with the club increasingly strained, the conditions for a return to Barcelona appeared to be falling into place. Xavi confirmed that contact was made over the possibility of bringing the Argentine back as a free agent, and that progress was being made until a significant obstacle emerged.
In an interview with La Vanguardia, Xavi directly challenged Laporta’s version of events: “That’s another instance where the president isn’t telling the truth. Leo was a done deal. In January 2023, after won the World Cup, since we have a great relationship, we got in touch and he told me he was excited about coming back—and I could see it happening. We spoke until March, and I told him, ‘Look, as soon as you give me the green light, I’ll tell the president, because from a football perspective, I see the fit.‘”
The former coach then described the moment the deal collapsed, pointing squarely at Laporta’s intervention in negotiations. “The president began negotiating the contract with Leo’s father, and his deal was done, we had the green light from LaLiga, but it was the president who pulled the plug on everything. Once again, he isn’t telling the truth,” the former Barcelona boss continued.
Barcelona President Joan Laporta and Lionel Messi.
He went on to paint a vivid picture of how the situation unraveled in its final stages: “Then, suddenly, Leo stopped picking up my calls because, on the other side, they had told him it couldn’t be done. I called his father and said, ‘Jorge, this can’t be,’ and he told me, ‘Talk to the president,’ and the president told me that he wasn’t going to do it. I insisted to him that we had been talking to Leo for five months—it was done. There were no doubts on the pitch; economically, we were moving to Montjuïc and we were going to have a ‘Last Dance’ just like Michael Jordan’s. Everything was ready.“
Xavi ultimately concluded that Laporta’s reluctance came down to a fear of losing control of the club’s narrative, given his standing as the man who had rebuilt Barcelona from the brink of financial collapse. “Laporta told me, verbatim, that if Leo returned, it would ‘start a war’ that he couldn’t afford. That’s the truth, I’m not trying to lie to anyone, I have no interest in returning to Barca, nor with Victor Font’s candidacy.“
“Leo didn’t come to Barca because the president didn’t want him to. Not because of LaLiga, nor Jorge Messi asking for more money. That’s not true. It’s the president and his people who said he couldn’t afford it, that he has all the power and that power would be poorly managed with Messi around, that there would be a war,” he candidly stated.
Xavi Hernandez and a situation that affected his relationship with Messi
During the 2022-23 season, Xavi Hernández led Barcelona to the La Liga title and was the driving force behind efforts to bring Messi back for the following campaign. Had the move gone through, Messi would have been reunited with a close friend and former teammate who had already been a cornerstone of the Barca squad when the Argentine made his debut against Espanyol back in 2004.
Xavi Hernandez of Barcelona celebrates his goal with teammate Lionel Messi back in 2008.
The failure to secure that return, however, left a mark on one of soccer’s most storied friendships: “It took a heavy toll on my relationship with Leo. We spoke recently and we’re on good terms now, but for a while, he thought I was part of the scheme—that I had deceived him. That couldn’t be further from the truth. I was dying for Leo to come back.“
Though reluctant to elaborate on what Messi shared with him regarding the Barcelona presidential elections, Xavi made clear that, in his view, the Argentine could still make a meaningful contribution even today. “Even now, I still believe he would help the team score goals and provide that final ball, without a doubt. I mean, he’s about to play in another World Cup! Leo would have triumphed once again at the Camp Nou; it was his dream and mine, and he knows that now. It was a shame, but it was because of those currently in charge,” he concluded.
Joan Laporta (L), President of FC Barcelona, and Lionel Messi (R).
After Real Madrid's lackluster performances, Rodri Hernández's potential arrival from Manchester City was considered as a solid midfield reinforcement. Nevertheless, Kylian Mbappé's team reportedly ruled out pursuing him, opting instead for a young Premier League talent.
Following Carlo Ancelotti’s departure, Real Madrid have struggled to find the right balance in midfield, as the exits of Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos seem to have disrupted the squad’s structure. Amid their underwhelming performances, Rodri Hernández of Manchester City emerged as a potential reinforcement. However, Kylian Mbappe’s team reportedly decided against pursuing his signing, opting instead to target a young Premier League star.
According to José Félix Díaz of Diario AS, Real Madrid are not interested in signing Rodri Hernández from Manchester City. Despite approaching the final year of his contract, the Spanish midfielder is expected to renew with the Citizens, as Los Blancos reportedly have serious doubts about his level following the serious injury he suffered. While he may be close to regaining his best form, his age—29—also raises concerns about pursuing the transfer.
Coupled with this, Antonio Hernández, Rodri‘s father, disclosed the intentions of the 29-year-old star during the National Sports Awards ceremony: “He is very happy where he is. You will understand the natural discretion in these circumstances. I don’t know anything, and I truly mean that. I don’t know anything—the story still has to be written… He’s desperate to go to the World Cup.” With this in mind, Pep Guardiola could soon secure his stellar midfielder.
Instead of pursuing Rodri Hernandez, Los Blancos are preparing to enter the bidding for Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, reports Diario AS. The Englishman has established as one of the most consistent players in the Premier League. Not only does he shine defensively, but he also has a quality with the ball that resembles the Spaniard’s style. Despite this, Real Madrid would have to pay more than €100 million for his transfer, other Premier League teams are also pursuing him.
Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace during the Premier League match.
Not only Wharton: Real Madrid reportedly target three other midfielders
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have struggled with the absence of midfielders capable of organizing play, as Jude Bellingham has not managed to shine in that aspect. In response, the emergence of Adam Wharton appears ideal, as he contributes defensively while also helping build play. However, they reportedly have two alternative options to the Englishman, as they seem determined to sign a new midfielder.
According to José Félix Díaz of Diario AS, Los Blancos are also targeting Kees Smit from AZ Alkmaar and Vitinha from PSG.While the Portuguese midfielder has expressed his desire to remain with the French club, Real Madrid are looking to convince him. The Dutchman is different a situation as he would be open to joining the club, but his transfer fee could exceed €50 million due to his exceptional potential growth.
Not only Vitinha and Kees Smit are being followed as Real Madrid are also reportedly considering the return of Nico Paz by activating their €9 million buyback clause. With the possible arrival of new reinforcement, they could shift to a system with four midfielders, with one of them playing as an attacking midfielder: Jude Bellingham. Therefore, the new signing would likely operate closer to the base of play, taking responsibility for organizing the midfield.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid and Rodrigo Hernandez of Manchester City.
After scoring against Athletic Club, Lamine Yamal has now reached the 50-goal milestone two years earlier than legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Lamine Yamal has been reshaping the boundaries of what is possible in world soccer since his sudden emergence in Barcelona‘s first team as a teenager, shattering records once thought untouchable. The Spanish winger has added another chapter to his remarkable story, reaching the 50-goal milestone at a younger age than both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Back in action following their Copa del Rey elimination at the hands of Atlético Madrid, Barcelona needed to refocus quickly to maintain their grip on the La Liga title race. The Blaugrana traveled to San Mamés on Saturday to face Athletic Club, and it was Yamal who provided the decisive moment, curling home a composed finish in the 68th minute after a perfectly weighted pass from Pedri to secure a 1-0 victory.
That goal against Bilbao took Lamine Yamal to 50 career goals at just 18 years and 237 days old. The breakdown includes 44 goals for Barcelona across all competitions and six more while representing the Spain national team.
For context, Lionel Messi reached the same milestone in 2008 at the age of 20 years and 315 days, more than two full years older than Yamal was on Saturday. Cristiano Ronaldo, the all-time leading scorer in soccer history, netted his 50th career goal in 2007 at 21 years and 297 days old, nearly three years later than the mark Yamal has now set.
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona scores against Athletic Club.
At club level, Yamal has scored 44 goals in 142 games for Barcelona since making his debut at 15 years old. Those goals span every competition he has featured in for the Blaugrana: 28 in La Liga, eight in the UEFA Champions League, five in the Copa del Rey and three in the Spanish Super Cup.
At international level, his six goals for Spain are spread across three competitions: three in the UEFA Nations League, two in the Euro qualifiers and one in the EUROs themselves. Yamal was absent from Spain’s World Cup qualifying campaign during the October and November windows, meaning he has yet to score in that competition, but the upcoming tournament in June will give him the opportunity to add yet another to his tally.
Yamal through his best goalscoring season
Despite the midweek Copa del Rey exit, Barcelona remain one of the most formidable sides in Europe and remain firmly in contention for Champions League glory. In Hansi Flick’s second season in charge, Yamal has been one of the primary driving forces behind the Blaugrana‘s La Liga surge, as they currently lead the table with 67 points, four clear of Real Madrid.
Saturday’s goal was his 19th of the season in all competitions, adding to 15 assists in 36 games and making it comfortably his most prolific campaign to date. His previous best was 18 goals across 55 games last season, and with at least 13 matches still to play, not accounting for potential Champions League progression, Yamal is well-placed to surpass that mark.
Early in his career, Yamal was viewed primarily as a creator rather than a finisher, with his goalscoring rate cited as one of the few areas for improvement. Ten goals in his last 11 games has put that notion firmly to rest. With Ronaldo sitting on 965 career goals and Messi on 899, it may be too early to speculate about those kinds of numbers, but at the rate Yamal is going, the question is at least worth asking.
Cristiano Ronaldo (L) of Al Nassr FC, Lamine Yamal (R) of FC Barcelona, and Lionel Messi (R) #10 of Inter Miami CF.
Cristian Chivu concedes Inter were ‘unable to break down’ the Milan defensive block, but insists ‘nothing would’ve changed even if we had won tonight’ in the Scudetto race.
The Nerazzurri could put the final nail in the coffin of the title with this showdown, but have instead seen their 10-point lead reduced to seven.
They were forced into changes on the night, as Marcus Thuram was ruled out by flu symptoms, with Lautaro Martinez also injured, so the all-new strike partnership of Francesco Pio Esposito and Ange-Yoan Bonny struggled to gel.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Referee Daniele Doveri at the end of the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Our first half was below par with a slow tempo, we then conceded their goal and that was a blow too,” Chivu told DAZN Italia.
“We tried to step up a gear after the break and did better in fits and starts, creating a good chance with Dimarco. We tried everything to swarm around their low defensive block, but were unable to break them down.”
Considering that Esposito and Bonny are different to the usual centre-forwards, should Inter have put more crosses into the box this evening?
“We got to the by-line, but without clear-cut situations, and then the crosses tended to be cleared by their defenders, because we never got in front of them,” replied Chivu.
“There was a lack of dynamism for us, Milan were sitting back and waiting for us to then go on the counter-attack. We need to improve and raise the tempo.”
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Francesco Pio Esposito of Inter competes with Fikayo Tomori of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Inter had been unbeaten in Serie A since the last encounter with Milan, another 1-0 result on November 23, managing a 2-2 draw against Napoli and 14 victories.
Chivu had said that Inter were too often criticised and not given credit for their successes, but after a disappointing 0-0 Coppa Italia semi-final draw with Como midweek and this defeat, they seem to be losing steam.
This is on top of the Champions League exit in the play-offs to Norwegian minnows Bodo/Glimt.
“We could and should have done better. The strikers are young, they didn’t do what we usually require, but that is not an excuse, I am pleased with what they tried to do, considering they were the only two at our disposal. For two such young players, this is valuable experience,” added Chivu.
“We all should’ve had greater intensity and moved with more determination all over the pitch.”
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Mike Maignan of AC Milan clashes with Alessandro Bastoni of Inter during the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
There had been suggestions Inter could go back to the system with one centre-forward and two more advanced creative midfielders, the approach used against Como in the Coppa Italia, to have at least one striker who could come off the bench and shake things up.
“I don’t think this was the right game to make experiments like that.”
The coach was pressed on the late incident where Denzel Dumfries headed the ball onto Samuele Ricci’s arm, but it was considered to be in a natural position.
“I was told the VAR checked it, so I have nothing to add. I am focused on the performance, on my decisions, my mistakes. There are 10 games to go, 30 points up for grabs, so we’ve got to build on what we’ve done so far,” replied Chivu.
“We still have a seven-point advantage, there are 30 still to be earned, nothing would’ve changed even if we had won tonight.”
In Serie A history, Inter and Milan have never managed to win the Scudetto in the same season where they lost both editions of the Derby della Madonnina.
Max Allegri confirms the Pervis Estupinan goal was prepared by Milan to target an Inter defensive weakness, but insists the Nerazzurri ‘remain the clear Scudetto favourites.’
The last time the Rossoneri won both editions of the Serie A derby was 2010-11, also under this coach, and how did that season end?
“However, Inter have a seven-point lead at the top, it’s a big advantage, they are still the strongest team and the clear favourites. We could’ve done better and been sharper in the final third on a few situations.
“We can only be happy, because we have kept Juventus at -10 points, Como and Roma at -9, so it was important to get a result today.”
Allegri keeps eyes on the real Milan prize
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
There are now 10 rounds left in the campaign, and a seven-point gap at the top of the table, although the coach has been adamant the main focus must be on qualifying for the Champions League.
“We worked seven months to make sure we reached March in the best possible condition, because this is when the most important games of the season are played and everything is decided,” continued Allegri.
The Rossoneri knew this was their last chance to keep the title race alive and that Inter had been unbeaten in Serie A since the last Derby della Madonnina on November 23.
That also ended 1-0, but this was an unexpected hero, Estupinan running onto the Youssouf Fofana through ball to beat Yann Sommer at the near post with his first goal for the club, hitting the weakness of Luis Henrique’s defending.
“Luis Henrique is a very good player, but we had prepared that situation in training,” confessed Allegri.
“Before the goal, there was a Rabiot cross that Estupinan could’ve run onto if he had just read it a moment earlier. Fofana did really well with that assist, he had another two important passes against Cremonese where we didn’t manage to score. The team is doing better.”
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Pervis Estupinan of AC Milan scores their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Milan owner Gerry Cardinale was present at San Siro, something he had not done for 18 months, and went into the dressing room after the final whistle to congratulate the team.
“I spoke to the team and then left, because I had to do the interviews, but I’m very pleased that the club and patrons congratulated the players.
“Having said that, we know that we have not achieved anything yet, so we’ve got to keep our feet on the ground. We must be pleased with the victory, but above all recognise they take us up to 60 points, with one less round to go in order to achieve our target.”
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Milan pressed Inter hard in the first half, while they were pushed back a bit more after the break and ended the match clammed up in their own penalty area.
“We used up a lot of energy in the first half, then obviously Inter stepped up a gear and we allowed them a few more crosses when we sat deeper,” continued Allegri.
“However, apart from Federico Dimarco’s chance on the counter-attack, I don’t remember genuine Inter chances. We had some favourable situations too and could’ve gone into the break 2-0 up.
“Having said that, yet again, I need to point out Inter remain the clear favourites for the Scudetto. This victory gives us a morale-booster.”
Luka Modric believes Milan had ‘some Sergio Ramos spirit’ in their Derby della Madonnina victory over Inter today, while Pervis Estupinan admits it was ‘the most important goal of my life.’
The odds were against the Rossoneri, who also felt the most pressure knowing they were 10 points behind the leaders going into this last chance to keep the title race open.
It was an unexpected hero who secured the 1-0 victory at San Siro, as Estupinan had never scored in the Rossoneri jersey before, but he ran onto the Youssouf Fofana through ball to surprise Yann Sommer at the near top corner.
Estupinan and Modric dreaming big for Milan
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Pervis Estupinan of AC Milan celebrates after scoring their team’s team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“This is thanks to all the hard work we did, we worked all week so hard, we had the right approach and we got the victory.”
Max Allegri told Estupinan to run at Luis Henrique, who got the timing and positioning all wrong when defending.
“Yes, as I said, we worked on this and the coach told me to attack that channel. I found the right moment to make the run and scored the goal.”
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Pervis Estupinan of AC Milan scores their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
This means Milan have won both editions of the Derby della Madonnina this season, as Inter had been unbeaten in Serie A since the last encounter on November 23, which also ended 1-0.
“It was an enormous effort, a great performance in the first half, Inter fought back after the restart, because they are a strong side, but they still created practically nothing against us.
“That shows how well we defended and were so organised, we deserved the victory.”
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Pervis Estupinan of AC Milan celebrates celebrates with his team-mates Adrien Rabiot and Youssouf Fofana after scoring their team’s team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The gap at the top of the Serie A table remains extensive at seven points, but it does at least give the Rossoneri some hope of catching their bitter city rivals in the remaining 10 rounds.
Inter protested in stoppages when they had the ball in the net, but the referee had stopped play on the corner.
“I don’t know what happened, but the referee blew the whistle beforehand, so it cannot be a goal if play was stopped. It isn’t even disallowed,” explained Modric.
Modric invited 60 friends and family to the match tonight, including his old Real Madrid teammate Sergio Ramos, who was spotted in the stands at San Siro.
Considering his presence, what do they make of the rumours in Spain that Allegri could be lined up for Real Madrid next season?
“There are always rumours around Real Madrid, but I don’t get involved in these things. I am very happy at Milan, I am so happy to see Sergio, he wrote yesterday and said he really wanted to experience this match. To have him here and with a victory too, that’s even better! We had a bit of Sergio Ramos spirit today,” concluded Modric.
Best Milan player: Estupinan 7 – There are several, but Estupinan slightly beats his teammates thanks to his winning goal in the first half. Maignan was just as decisive a few minutes earlier as he produced a key save to deny Mkhitaryan. De Winter and Pavlovic were very solid at the back, Modric led the Rossoneri with experience and quality. Not a news that.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Pervis Estupinan of AC Milan scores their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Lowest Milan rating: Leao 5.5 – He didn’t do much, did he? Even when the Rossoneri had space on the counter, the Portuguese star was too sloppy and made too many touches, losing momentum and hurting the opponents.
Milan coach: Allegri 7 – He told Estupinan after just seven minutes that he had to find space behind Luis Henrique, and that’s exactly how Milan scored the winning goal. Milan kept things tight at the back, but, to be honest, they probably thought they’d have needed to sit deeper to win the game.
Best Inter player: Mkhitaryan 6 – It’s hard to pick one as many Nerazzurri were below par. Mkhitaryan probably had the best chance for the Nerazzurri, but was denied by Maignan, just a few minutes before Estupinan’s winner. Dumfries’ introduction in the second half was a clear upgrade on Luis Henrique. Inter have missed him so much.
Lowest Inter rating: Luis Henrique 5 – At the end of the day, he made the decisive mistake that allowed Milan to win the match. It had already happened against Juventus and Arsenal. When the Brazilian is defending, opponents will always have a chance to hurt on that flank. It happened tonight, and Estupinan didn’t waste it.
Inter coach: Chivu 5 – It wasn’t easy without his starting strikers. Lautaro was injured on the bench, and Thuram wasn’t available due to a fever. Inter have now lost their first game since the reverse fixture on November 23. Besides that, they were never really dangerous. The ball moved too slowly, and the strikers didn’t link up well. The good news is that Inter still hold a seven-point lead over Milan.
Milan have won both editions of the Derby della Madonnina, as the Pervis Estupian goal reopens the Scudetto race, closing the gap on leaders Inter to seven points.
This was not only the Derby della Madonnina, but also a Scudetto showdown between first and second place. The Nerazzurri were unbeaten in Serie A since the 1-0 defeat in this fixture on November 23, followed by a draw and 14 victories. Marcus Thuram had flu symptoms, with Lautaro Martinez injured and on the bench anyway to cheer on his teammates, so it was an all-new strike partnership. Matteo Gabbia and Santiago Gimenez missed out following surgery, with Davide Bartesaghi not fully fit.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: The AC Milan fans show their support during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Luka Modric drilled inches wide from the edge of the area in the third minute after a wayward Yann Sommer pass out from the back.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan gathered from his own half and sprinted forward to force a tricky save out of Mike Maignan one-on-one, but Milan scored instead moments later.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Henrikh Mkhitaryan of Inter competes for the ball with Fikayo Tomori of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Youssouf Fofana completed a give and go with Rafael Leao, then placed a smart through ball to send Estupinan down the left behind Luis Henrique, beating Sommer from a tight angle at the near post. It was the Ecuadorian’s first ever goal for the Rossoneri.
Pervis Estupiñán rockets AC Milan into the lead in the Derby della Madonnina
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 8, 2026
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Pervis Estupinan of AC Milan celebrates after scoring their team’s team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It was nearly 2-0 soon after, as Christian Pulisic pulled back from the left by-line and Federico Dimarco did just enough to stop Alexis Saelemaekers sweeping in from 12 yards.
After the restart, Piotr Zielinski stung Maignan’s gloves at the near post, while Rafael Leao scuffed well wide after a strong Pulisic counter-attack.
Fofana tested Sommer on another counter, but Federico Dimarco should’ve equalised on 54 minutes when ballooning over from 12 yards, as Mkhitaryan knocked down a Barella cross.
Leao also wasted a promising opportunity when sent through by Fofana, while Denzel Dumfries came off the bench and within 60 seconds had tested Maignan after pouncing on a loose ball, then Bonny nodded his cross over the bar.
Alessandro Bastoni was booked for a late trip on Rabiot, which ended up injuring the Inter defender and forcing him off the pitch.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Referee Daniele Doveri shows the yellow card to Alessandro Bastoni of Inter during the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Rabiot also saw yellow later and will be suspended for next week’s meeting with Lazio. Inter had the ball in the net on a corner during stoppages, but the referee had clearly blown the whistle beforehand to have it taken again.
Inter also had penalty appeals when Dumfries nodded the ball onto Samuele Ricci’s arm, but it was considered to be in a natural position, then the move continued and Manuel Akanji’s header was off target.
Bastoni collided with Milan midfielder Arien Rabiot, committing a foul and receiving a yellow card.
The Inter defender took the worst of it, remaining on the ground in pain and needing treatment from the Nerazzurri’s medical staff.
He was quickly replaced by Inter coach Cristian Chivu, who introduced the Brazilian Carlos Augusto.
Inter are expected to provide injury updates in the coming hours, and Italy CT Gennaro Gattuso will be awaiting news on Bastoni as well.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Referee Daniele Doveri shows the yellow card to Alessandro Bastoni of Inter during the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Azzurri, in fact, play Northern Ireland in the World Cup semifinal play-off on March 26, and even Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori suffered an injury over the weekend.
Today’s derby is technically a home game for Milan, and the Rossoneri crowd had loudly booed Bastoni before his injury over the controversy surrounding him in the Inter-Juventus match last month.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Mike Maignan of AC Milan clashes with Alessandro Bastoni of Inter during the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Watching Enzo Maresca complete a messy divorce from Stamford Bridge on New Year’s Day, Chelsea have endured a turbulent time behind the scenes in west London. Although many across the continent might have been shocked following Liam Rosenior’s arrival, it appears that the Blues are enjoying life under the former Strasbourg boss. Avoiding what would […]
Watching Enzo Maresca complete a messy divorce from Stamford Bridge on New Year’s Day, Chelsea have endured a turbulent time behind the scenes in west London. Although many across the continent might have been shocked following Liam Rosenior’s arrival, it appears that the Blues are enjoying life under the former Strasbourg boss. Avoiding what would […]
PervisEstupiñán could not pick a better game to score his first Milan goal as he gave the Rossoneri the lead against Inter in the derby della Madonnina.
Estupiñán’s first Milan goal allowed the Rossoneri to put their noses in front in a derby della Madonnina against Inter on Sunday.
The Rossoneri won the ball high up the pitch. Youssouf Fofana slipped a through pass to Estupinan on the left, and the former Brighton defender finished the move with a powerful strike toward the near top corner.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Pervis Estupinan of AC Milan celebrates after scoring their team’s team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Video: Estupinan’s goal vs. Inter
Pervis Estupiñán rockets AC Milan into the lead in the Derby della Madonnina
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 8, 2026
Pervis Estupiñán fires home his first Serie A goal in the Derby della Madonnina pic.twitter.com/QFMZI9NsgX
— CBS Sports Golazo (@CBSSportsGolazo) March 8, 2026
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Pervis Estupinan of AC Milan celebrates celebrates with his team-mates Adrien Rabiot and Youssouf Fofana after scoring their team’s team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Telegraph reports that Italian tactician Roberto De Zerbi is on Manchester United and Tottenham’s shortlist for the 2026-27 season, but Spurs must first secure survival.
Former Sassuolo, Brighton and Marseille coach De Zerbi is a candidate to become the new coach of Tottenham and Manchester United next season, The Telegraph reports.
According to the report, De Zerbi is keen on the Red Devils job and is among the club’s shortlist of candidates for next season.
The same goes for Tottenham, but Spurs are in a tricky situation currently as they are just one point above the relegation zone.
The former Juventus tactician risks being sackedm but he’ll remain at the helm for next week’s Champions League match against Atletico Madrid.
MARSEILLE, FRANCE – NOVEMBER 25: Roberto De Zerbi, head coach of Olympique de Marseille reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Olympique de Marseille and Newcastle United FC at Stade de Marseille on November 25, 2025 in Marseille, France. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
According to the report, both Tottenham and Manchester United directors appreciate De Zerbi’s attacking style of play, but the Italian tactician also has admirers at Manchester City, where he has built a solid bond with Pep Guardiola.
MADRID, SPAIN – SEPTEMBER 16: Robert De Zerbi, Head Coach of Olympique de Marseille, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Real Madrid C.F. and Olympique de Marseille at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on September 16, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini is convinced his players had the right attitude despite a 2-1 defeat at Genoa, but is unhappy VAR didn’t award the Giallorossi a penalty kick for a Ruslan Malinovskyi handball: ‘If they aren’t certain about this, they should do another job.’
Today’s loss leaves them fifth in the standings, level on 51 points with fourth-placed Como and just one point above Juventus.
Gasperini comments on Genoa 2-1 Roma
“We approached the game really well; we were determined and solid,” Gasperini told DAZN via TMW.
“We didn’t have many shots on target, and perhaps they had even fewer than we did. We weren’t even lucky in the final minutes, but the team spirit was very high.”
Malinovskyi blocked a Manu Koné shot with the upper part of his right arm in the second half, with the result still set to 1-1, and Gasp certainly believes the Genoa midfielder’s touch should have led to a penalty kick.
“The incident is quite clear; VAR didn’t intervene. Everyone can see it their own way, but the images are so clear,” Gasperini said.
“If those in charge of VAR aren’t certain about this, they should do another job. You can’t change reality; it’s quite evident. He didn’t impose the penalty, and we shouldn’t consider other interpretations.
“There was great intensity with long balls from any position, quite suitable for a player like Cristante,” Gasperini continued.
GENOA, ITALY – MARCH 8: Vitor Vitinha of Genoa celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and AS Roma at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on March 8, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Getty Images)
“It was really difficult to play the ball on the ground, but the lads were good; it’s not a lucky moment. Svilar made the first save in the second half. Now we have a busy schedule with two games against Bologna.”
Roma’s next game is away at Bologna in the first leg of the Europa League Round of 16. Next Sunday, they’ll host Como at the Stadio Olimpico in what will be a crucial match in the race for the top four.
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: AS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks on during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Genoa coach Daniele De Rossi won’t pretend to be sorry after his Genoa side beat Roma 2-1 and admits he feels ‘ at home’ at Marassi.
De Rossi’s Genoa beat Roma 2-1 on Sunday and the Italian tactician commented on his players’ performances during a post-match interview with DAZN.
“It was worth three points, which are so important and were earned by a strong and healthy group,” De Rossi said.
“In January, after the transfer window, I said I was happy because I had a group with different characteristics in all departments. I know games are not all the same, and opponents are not all the same. When you need intensity like tonight, you need players with those skill sets. I’m happy with the table, but very happy with my players. They deserve this satisfaction, especially those who have played less.”
De Rossi is a Roma legend and a former Giallorossi coach, so how does it feel to beat his favourite club?
“If you decide to do this job, you must know you’ll face Roma sooner or later,” De Rossi replied.
“I don’t want to minimise or say I’m not sorry that they are sorry, but I don’t want to justify myself or pretend I’m sorry. I’m happy, not that Roma lost, but that I won. This will be my fate until the day I’ll hope Roma win 38 games. It’s a target of mine and a dream of many. Perhaps, one day it will happen.
“However, if I have to think about a team similar to Roma, that makes me feel at home, with similar fans, in both good and bad ways; it’s where I am now, and I really like it.”
De Rossi went on to praise his players.
GENOA, ITALY – MARCH 8: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa, reacts during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and AS Roma at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on March 8, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Getty Images)
“What they give me is more than what I give them. I try to treat them honestly and equally. I hadn’t noticed the assist [for Vitinha] was from Masini,” he continued.
“I’m not surprised. I like to spend time with these lads, I like to shield them when there are bad games, like against Inter. All we do comes from what they do in training. If you look at Masini, you have to stop him in training because he goes twice as fast as the others. Perhaps, he won’t play in the next game, but this is football. They give everything to me, I give everything to them.”
GENOA, ITALY – MARCH 8: Junior Messias of Genoa (center) scores a goal on a penalty kick during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and AS Roma at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on March 8, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Getty Images)
Inter President Beppe Marotta agrees with Cristian Chivu that their success ‘attracted jealousy and excessive criticism,’ while youth is the way forward in the Milan derby.
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
The Nerazzurri are forced into changes, because Marcus Thuram has flu symptoms and is not even fit for a spot on the bench this evening.
Curiously, Lautaro Martinez is named among the substitutes, even though he is in absolutely no condition to play, because the captain wants to be close to his teammates during this huge match.
Marotta reassuring for Inter showdown
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 04: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“It was a nice gesture, he wanted to be there and knows that a captain is not just on the pitch, but he can take that role off it too. We consider it an extremely positive attitude,” Marotta told DAZN Italia.
Francesco Pio Esposito and Ange-Yoan Bonny start together in a competitive match for the first time, forming a brand new and young Inter strike partnership.
“Italian football cannot compete financially with many other leagues, so we need to focus on the quality of Made in Italy. Playing Pio Esposito is to the credit of our youth academy, and this is the path that other Serie A sides ought to be following.
“Football is entertainment and another way of creating that is to make the most of the talent within our shores.”
Inter are 10 points clear at the top of the Serie A table, so anything less than a defeat would all but stitch the Scudetto badge onto their jersey.
“We are not thinking about that,” said the President. “We want to remember the dangers in this derby, as it is always separate from the rest of the season.
“I hope it can be a positive advertisement for the city of Milano, an iconic city. We hope it can be spectacular and positive for those in the stadium and around the world.”
UDINE, ITALY – JANUARY 17: Cristian Chivu, manager of FC Internazionale, looks on ahead of kick off at the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Friuli on January 17, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Cristian Chivu complained recently that Inter did not receive credit for their successes this campaign, playing in the Coppa Italia semi-final and top of Serie A.
“I think it is a fair assessment, because generally those who win tend to attract jealousy or excessive criticism without substance,” agreed Marotta.
“In the last five years, Inter are the side in Italy who won the most, and we’ve got to be able to handle that kind of malicious sniping that drags us into situations where we don’t belong. There’s no point getting into more controversy.”
Piero Hincapie joined Arsenal on loan from Bayer Leverkusen last summer, with the Gunners having the option to turn it into a permanent deal at the end of this season. According to Fabrizio Romano, the initial loan agreement was necessary for Arsenal to comply with the Financial Fair Play regulations, and their plan was always […]
Max Allegri assures Christian Pulisic ‘hasn’t forgotten how to score goals’ for Milan and warns they ‘need to be realistic’ in the Scudetto race even if they beat Inter.
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: General view outside the stadium prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 18, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Not only is this a Derby della Madonnina and bitter local rivalry, it’s also a decisive crossroads in the Scudetto race, because anything less than a victory for the Rossoneri today would make it a huge ask to claw back the gap at the top of the table.
Allegri not fooled by Inter difficulties
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: Massimiliano Allegri head coach of AC Milan during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Inter are forced to do without both first choice strikers, as Marcus Thuram has flu and Lautaro Martinez is injured, so does anything change for Milan in their approach to facing Francesco Pio Esposito and Ange-Yoan Bonny?
“It is a difficult match, Inter are an excellent team, as you can see from their position in the table, and we’ll see if we are able to put in a good performance, and above all to get a result.”
Alexandre Pato is in the stands as a guest of the Milan squad, saluted by Allegri before kick-off, with memories of his goal early into a Derby della Madonnina.
“We will try to start strong and that we get what happened in 2011, it would be auspicious. Having said that, we need to be realistic and look at the ultimate objective. The season doesn’t end here, it would be good to get a marvellous result this evening though,” continued Allegri.
Pulisic has not found the net since the 3-0 win over Hellas Verona on December 12, but the USMNT star returns to the starting XI today.
“I think his condition is improving and he will be very important for us in the final months of the season. It’s not as if he has forgotten how to score goals, he had an injury from pre-season, he had a few more setbacks, but is working on finding his best form,” concluded Allegri.
Marcus Thuram is not even on the Inter bench this evening for the Derby della Madonnina against Milan, but Lautaro Martinez is among the substitutes, even if he cannot play.
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
This is not just the fiery local derby and Stadio Giuseppe Meazza battle for local bragging rights, but also a Scudetto showdown between the runaway leaders and the only team keeping up the pace in second.
Inter without first choice strikers
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 24: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and FK Bodo/Glimt at Stadio San Siro on February 24, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
However, Cristian Chivu is forced into some changes, because Thuram has not recovered after suffering from flu symptoms on Friday evening and is not even on the bench today.
Curiously, Lautaro Martinez is named among the substitutes, even though he is in no condition to play after sustaining that calf strain during the first leg of the Champions League play-off with Bodo/Glimt last month.
The captain wanted to be included so that he could be close to his Inter teammates, both inside the locker room, and sitting on the touchline rather than being more isolated in the stands.
The last time Inter did not have a single minute for both Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram in Serie A was a 2-0 win away to Como on May 23, 2025.
Back then, they were rested ahead of the Champions League Final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, so that was 289 days ago.
Inter bench: Di Gennaro, J Martinez, Dumfries, De Vrij, Sucic, Lautaro Martinez, Acerbi, Frattesi, Diouf, Calhanoglu, Carlos Augusto, Darmian, Lavelli
Daniele De Rossi stunned his beloved Roma to give Genoa a much-needed victory, allowing Como to catch the Giallorossi in joint fourth place.
The Giallorossi were gearing up for the Europa League Round of 16 tie with Bologna, but also knew they needed a result here to hold onto fourth place. Paulo Dybala and Evan Ferguson found out this week they required surgery, with Matias Soulé, Mario Hermoso and Artem Dovbyk out too, plus Wesley suspended. Lorenzo Venturino therefore got his first start aged 19 against his parent club. Daniele De Rossi’s Genoa lost Roma-owned Tommaso Baldanzi to injury, with Brooke Norton-Cuffy and Sebastian Otoa not fully fit either.
GENOA, ITALY – MARCH 8: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa (right), greets Gian Piero Gasperini, head coach of Roma, prior to kick-off in the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and AS Roma at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on March 8, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Getty Images)
Evan Ndicka received an early yellow card for a push on Jeff Ekhator and will be suspended when Roma take on Como next week.
Donyell Malen squirmed away from three for a shot deflected wide, while Junior Messias misplaced the pass that would’ve sent Ekhator clear on goal.
Malen was booked after going for the acrobatic volley on a Gianluca Mancini cross, but only catching Leo Ostigard on the head instead.
Genoa had a huge chance on the stroke of half-time, as Caleb Ekuban came sliding in and got to the Messias cross before Mancini, turning over from seven yards.
Bryan Cristante came on for the restart, but Lorenzo Pellegrini slipped and crashed into Mikel Ellertsson for an inevitable penalty, which was converted centrally into the roof of the net by Messias.
Ekuban fired over from a promising position moments later, but Roma equalised on a corner kick of their own. Mancini’s header was nodded away by Messias, but only into the path of Ndicka for a looping header into the empty net. It was the defender’s third consecutive Serie A match on target.
GENOA, ITALY – MARCH 8: Evan N’Dicka of Roma (center) celebrates with his team-mates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and AS Roma at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on March 8, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Getty Images)
Malen had the ball in the net just two minutes later, but was offside when gathering the Neil El Aynaoui pass through the middle. Malen’s diving header also went over from 10 yards on another Mancini cross.
A Lorenzo Colombo overhead kick failed to trouble Mile Svilar, but Genoa restored their advantage after a throw-in. It was knocked down by Colombo for Ruslan Malinovskyi, who sent Patrizio Masini down the left, rolled across for Vitinha to come sliding in to tap into an empty net from six yards.
GENOA, ITALY – MARCH 8: Vitor Vitinha of Genoa celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and AS Roma at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on March 8, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Getty Images)
Kostas Tsimikas got into the box and could’ve gone for goal, but instead pulled back from the by-line into an area with no Roma teammates.
Malen saw his strike deflected just wide in the final minute and there was a scramble on a corner, then Svilar made a desperate save one-on-one with Malinovsyki on the counter-attack.
Inter start an all-new partnership of Francesco Pio Esposito and Ange-Yoan Bonny with Piotr Zielinski, while Milan hope Luka Modric can inspire Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic.
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
Not only is this a Derby della Madonnina and bitter local rivalry, it’s also a decisive crossroads in the Scudetto race, because leaders Inter are 10 points clear of Milan in second place.
The Nerazzurri were held 0-0 by Como in the Coppa Italia semi-final first leg on Tuesday, when adopting a new tactical system with Davide Frattesi and Andy Diouf in advanced roles to support a single centre-forward.
Marcus Thuram was meant to start today, but he is suffering from flu symptoms and is not even fit for the bench, with Lautaro Martinez still out after that calf injury against Bodo/Glimt.
Curiously, the Argentine is named ‘on the bench’ just so he can be close to his teammates and cheer them on.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 24: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and FK Bodo/Glimt at Stadio San Siro on February 24, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It means a brand-new strike pairing of Esposito and Bonny, while Hakan Calhanoglu is rested after making his first start in six weeks with Como.
Instead, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Zielinski take the midfield reins, with Denzel Dumfries slowly making his way back to full fitness after several months out due to ankle surgery.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Francesco Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s third goal with teammate Federico Dimarco during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Milan have problems of their own to deal with, because Matteo Gabbia had an operation for a sports hernia and is expected to be out for a month, joining Santiago Gimenez on the absentee list.
Davide Bartesaghi avoided a serious flexor injury, but the twinge against Cremonese was enough to mean he’s on the bench, replaced by Pervis Estupinan.
Pulisic and Leao work on their partnership, with Modric and Adrien Rabiot in midfield.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Luka Modric of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Vincenzo Italiano is frustrated after Bologna’s unexpected home defeat to rock bottom Verona. ‘This sport drives me crazy, we had 19 shots on goal today.’
The Rossoblu had seemingly put their crisis behind them and put together a run of positive results.
They took the lead here today with the first Serie A goal for Jonathan Rowe, but found themselves going 2-1 behind in the space of just nine minutes to Martin Frese and Kieron Bowie counter-attacks.
Verona even had a third goal with Amin Sarr, disallowed using VAR for the earlier Roberto Gagliardini push on Benjamin Dominguez.
Italiano can’t believe latest Bologna setback
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 08: Paolo Sammarco, Interim Head Coach of Hellas Verona, embraces Vincenzo Italiano, Head Coach of Bologna, prior to the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Hellas Verona FC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“The main problem is when you are unable to finish off the chances that you create, and then after that, every time you make a mistake, you have to plug that gap,” said Italiano in his press conference.
“We had managed to make up for the errors recently with a big save or a defensive block, but today we weren’t solid enough in attack or defence.
“When it came to the second goal, we should’ve just taken a yellow card and stopped the counter-attack at the start. It’s a pity, we wanted to add another three points to our tally.
“Santiago Castro could’ve had four goals toady and didn’t convert any of them. We allowed too many spaces in defence too. This is how you lose in Serie A.”
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 08: Santiago Castro of Bologna reacts during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Hellas Verona FC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The most remarkable thing about Bologna’s season is their awful record at the Stadio Dall’Ara, as in Serie A alone they have lost seven of their last nine home games.
That is as many defeats as in the previous 62 fixtures played in front of the local supporters.
“You seem to believe that Bologna should sweep everyone aside, but the fact remains, Napoli needed a stoppage-time goal to beat Verona last time,” replied Italiano.
“When you told me we’d get six easy points against Pisa and Verona, I warned you that would not be the case.
“This sport drives me crazy because we had 19 shots on goal today. We had become so much more effective recently, in attack and defence, but today we made silly mistakes.”
Now Bologna must prepare for Thursday’s Europa League Round of 16 tie with Roma, fresh off this surprising home defeat.
“I always say we need to turn the page and start afresh after every match, whether it’s a win or not. We’ll adjust a few things and must have the right concentration against a quality opponent,” concluded Italiano.
Liverpool’s 3–1 FA Cup victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers was more than a morale‑boosting win. It felt like the unveiling of something new — or perhaps something Liverpool have desperately missed this season. At the heart of it all was 17‑year‑old Rio Ngumoha, whose electric performance didn’t just catch the eye — it demanded attention, admiration, […]
Benfica and Porto face off today on Matchday 25 of the 2025–26 Primeira Liga, with both teams seeking a crucial victory to solidify their objectives. With that in mind, we will follow the game minute by minute, providing live updates.
As leaders of the 2025–26 Primeira Liga, Porto entered the match as clear favorites against Benfica. Not only had they dominated defensively, but they had also been very dangerous offensively. In contrast, José Mourinho’s side came into the game as the underdogs, yet they managed to make a difference going forward throughout the match. However, it was halftime that ultimately changed the course of the draw.
Even though coach Francesco Farioli opted for a defensive strategy, Porto still managed to shine offensively. Taking advantage of Benfica’s high press, they were efficient on the counterattack, exploiting the midfield’s struggles. As a result, Victor Froholdt and Oskar Pietuszewski stood out, scoring the two goals in the first half. Despite this, they faced significant difficulties in the second half.
Despite consistently shining in attack, Benfica looked very weak defensively. Their high press was effective going forward, but it left Nicolás Otamendi and Tomás Araújo exposed, which led to the two goals conceded. However, José Mourinho completely transformed the team in the second half, taking advantage of two key changes from Porto that caused them to lose control of the match.
After the departures of Gabri Veiga and Oskar Pietuszewski, Porto lost their threat on the counterattack, struggling to find through passes against Benfica’s defense. In response, coach José Mourinho opted to bring on Franjo Ivanović and Dodi Lukebakio, who transformed the attack. Not only did they inject freshness into the team, but they also helped distribute the play, with Andreas Schjelderup eventually scoring to lift the team’s spirits.
Far from ending their offensive revolution there, Benfica regained control of the ball and kept looking to break through Porto’s defense. While coach Farioli’s strategy held for a long time, Ivanović eventually managed to crack it. After a run to the byline, with Bah playing a key one-two, he found Leandro Barreiro alone in the box and delivered the pass. The 26-year-old midfielder finished with composure, equalizing the match in the 89th minute.
Lionel Messi "effect" in the MLS keeps on going as star has now set back-to-back away attendance records in the first two 2026 MLS games with Inter Miami.
Now in his fourth MLS season since arriving in 2023, Lionel Messi continues to prove that the excitement surrounding him shows no signs of cooling off. With the 2026 campaign barely underway, the Inter Miami star has already set back-to-back away attendance records in the opening two matchdays of the season.
To launch the 2026 season, MLS arranged a marquee Matchday 1 showdown between LAFC and Inter Miami, bringing together two of the league’s biggest global stars in Son Heung-min and Messi on the same night. Seizing the moment, LAFC relocated the match from their regular home at BMO Stadium to the iconic LA Memorial Coliseum, a decision that more than justified itself.
The February 21 clash drew a crowd of 75,673 to the Coliseum to watch what turned into a dominant 3-0 home victory. The attendance set the record for the largest crowd at an MLS season opener, while also contributing to the biggest opening weekend attendance in league history, and ranking as the second-largest crowd ever recorded for a regular-season MLS match.
D.C. United took a similar approach, moving their home game against Inter Miami from the 20,000-capacity Audi Field to M&T Bank Stadium, home of the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens. The result was a crowd of 72,026 on Saturday, not only the largest in D.C. United’s history as one of the league’s founding clubs, but the biggest ever recorded at that venue.
The stadium screen shows the match attendance during the D.C. United vs. Inter Miami CF MLS game at M&T Bank Stadium.
The previous M&T Bank Stadium record had stood since January 15, 2012, when 71,547 fans packed the building for the Ravens’ 2011 AFC Divisional Playoff game against the Houston Texans, a 20-13 Baltimore victory that stood as the largest crowd in franchise history. Messi has now surpassed that mark after more than 14 years, a reminder that his influence on sport extends well beyond the soccer field.
Will Messi break another consecutive attendance record in the MLS?
Inter Miami will briefly shift their attention away from league play, with the first leg of the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16 against Nashville SC at Geodis Park coming up on Wednesday. But the next MLS attendance test is already on the horizon, with the Herons set to visit Charlotte FC at Bank of America Stadium on Saturday, March 14 for Matchday 3.
That fixture presents another opportunity for Messi to extend his remarkable away attendance streak. Bank of America Stadium holds 74,867 fans, and the venue record stands at 74,479, set during Charlotte FC’s inaugural home match against the LA Galaxy on March 5, 2022. Eclipsing that mark, however, will be far from straightforward.
In recent seasons, Charlotte have maintained a policy of limiting MLS regular-season games to a lower-bowl sellout rather than opening the full stadium, and that approach has applied to Messi’s visits as well. In 2025, for example, just 35,000 tickets were made available for his appearance. The only time Charlotte opened the full stadium for a Messi game, it drew 66,101, suggesting that unless the club changes its approach, the Argentine’s remarkable streak of away attendance records could come to an end.
After the match against CD Osasuna, Kylian Mbappé was diagnosed with a sprain in his left knee, which would rule him out of France’s upcoming matches. Despite this, he has reportedly made a surprising decision regarding the national team for a clear reason.
Kylian Mbappé has remained Real Madrid’s most in-form player, leading the team’s scoring ahead of Vinícius Jr. However, the French star was diagnosed with a sprain in his left knee, which appears likely to sideline him for several matches. As a result, Kylian could miss France’s upcoming international friendly doubleheader. Nevertheless, he has reportedly made a surprising decision regarding the national team despite his injury recovery.
According to Diario AS, Mbappé will not be able to take part in France’s friendlies against Brazil and Colombia, as he is not expected to recover in time. Despite this, the 27-year-old striker will travel with the national team to the United States, remaining part of the delegation while continuing his recovery process. This decision is due to commercial commitments with sponsors, which would require his presence.
Unlike other national teams, Kylian renegotiated his image rights with the French Football Federation (FFF) alongside his teammates around 2022 and 2023, according to L’Équipe. For this reason, Mbappé could be required to join the national team, as he may have taken on greater responsibilities under this new agreement. Despite this, the 27-year-old striker remains focused on continuing his recovery from the sprain in his left knee.
Kylian Mbappé’s recovery remains shrouded in uncertainty
Just days after announcing the sprain in his left knee, Kylian Mbappé, together with Real Madrid’s medical staff, consulted a doctor in Paris to obtain a more precise evaluation of the injury. Following this, he was reportedly diagnosed with a partial tear of the posterior cruciate ligament, according to Antón Meana. However, Los Blancos have reportedly rejected the accuracy of this information, maintaining their original diagnosis.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid during the Spanish Super Cup Final against FC Barcelona.
Far from helping to clarify the situation, this conflicting information has only served to confuse fans even more. If Kylian only has a sprain, he could be back soon, facing Manchester City in the second leg. However, in case he has a partial tear of the posterior cruciate ligament, he would be out for most of the season, arriving just in time for the 2026 World Cup. Furthermore, Real Madrid have not released any new official updates on his recovery status.
Unlike earlier reports, Kylian Mbappé’s return to the pitch is generating optimism at Real Madrid. According to MARCA, the French star remains committed to his recovery at Valdebebas and still has two sessions scheduled on Monday, March 9, and Tuesday, March 10, to prove that he is in full fitness. In addition, his recovery has reportedly been progressing very positively, giving Los Blancos reason for optimism.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
Luka Modric has supported Milan since childhood, so he wanted 60 friends and family to be at San Siro to watch him play in tonight’s Derby della Madonnina against Inter.
It kicks off at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 25: The fans of AC Milan show their support as they hold flags prior to the Serie A match between AS Roma and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on January 25, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Modric joined the Rossoneri this season as a free agent from Real Madrid, as he has always admitted to supporting the club since he was a little boy in Croatia.
Now he gets to participate in the iconic derby and wants to share the moment with all his friends and family.
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Luka Modric of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
According to the Corriere dello Sport, the 40-year-old spared no expense, splashing out for 60 tickets and helping many of them travel from Croatia to be in the stands.
Among them is also a familiar face to this stadium, because he brought along ex-Milan striker Mario Mandzukic, who retired recently and is part of the Croatian coaching staff.
Mandzukic was already in Italy, as last night he was given an award by Juventus and saluted the fans ahead of their 4-0 home win over Pisa.
It’s reported that Mandzukic was staying at Modric’s house over the last couple of days.
Paolo Vanoli admits Fiorentina have regressed in the last couple of weeks after a 0-0 draw with Parma and gives a Moise Kean injury update. ‘It’ll be a battle to the end.’
It should’ve been a positive result for the Viola, as this point means that they are out of the relegation zone for the first time since October 2024.
However, there were jeers from the fans at the final whistle, as a sluggish performance failed to get the full victory that could’ve dragged Parma back down towards the danger spots.
Vanoli sees Fiorentina problems re-emerge
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 8: Nicolo’ Fagioli of ACF Fiorentina in action during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Parma Calcio 1913 at Artemio Franchi on March 8, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“We were too slow in the first half and got many crosses wrong, so we didn’t attack the penalty area in the right way,” said Vanoli in his press conference.
“The second half was better, we could’ve brought home the victory, but these games are always balanced. We’re disappointed, but it is also a point that allows us to break away from Cremonese.”
Fiorentina had seemingly turned a corner with a run of positive results, but they have now scraped one draw in the last three competitive matches, failing to score for 250 minutes of Serie A football.
“Football is strange sometimes. In the first two months here we had so many chances, but ups and downs are natural. We didn’t attack the back post or have the right service today, yet compared to the defeat to Udinese last week, we had a better xG today. We just weren’t inventive enough,” added Vanoli.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 8: Luca Ranieri of ACF Fiorentina shows his dejection during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Parma Calcio 1913 at Artemio Franchi on March 8, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“I always said the fans are important to us and if they felt the need to jeer, we have to accept it. We must be aware that it’ll be a battle to the very end. We aren’t giving enough, yet it is all we have right now.”
Does he at least recognise there have been steps backward in the last couple of weeks, cancelling out the progress that had been made?
“That is a fair analysis, we are lacking a bit of energy at the moment. Against Udinese was the fifth game in 16 days, I evidently didn’t manage to get the batteries recharged,” confessed Vanoli.
“We lacked quality in the one-on-one situations and I was angry in the first half because Dodo was keeping Jack Harrison pinned back too deep. We were more aggressive after the break, but were still too static and this made it easier for the Parma defenders.”
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 8: Head coach Paolo Vanoli manager of ACF Fiorentina looks on during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Parma Calcio 1913 at Artemio Franchi on March 8, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The lack of goals was also down to the absence of injured Moise Kean and Manor Solomon, who both suffered knocks in recent matches and were not even on the bench today.
“Moise has an inflammation in the ankle after a blow in Udine, we tried to get him on the bench, but he continued to feel pain. Now we hope he’ll be available for the Conference League,” explained Vanoli.
“Solomon is continuing treatment and we’ll see if we can get him fit before the break for international duty or after.”
The next week could be huge in Fiorentina’s season, as they have the Conference League Round of 16 with Rakow and then a relegation tussle with Cremonese.
Roma director Ricky Massara insists Paulo Dybala’s operation ‘will not affect’ the decision to offer him a new contract, while there is squad rotation against Genoa.
It kicks off at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).
This is crunch time of the campaign for the Giallorossi, because while the Europa League Round of 16 tie against Bologna is coming up on Thursday, they also face pressure from Como and Juventus to keep hold of a top four Serie A spot.
Massara on Roma changes and Dybala situation
WALSALL, ENGLAND – AUGUST 06: Frederic Massara, Sporting Director of AS Roma, looks on prior to the pre-season friendly match between Aston Villa and AS Roma at Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium on August 06, 2025 in Walsall, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
The major surprise is Lorenzo Venturino getting his first Serie A start against his parent club, as he arrived from Genoa in January on loan with an option to buy.
“Venturino has always had a positive impact when called upon, with enthusiasm and confidence, so we are very pleased with what he has been doing,” Massara told Sky Sport Italia.
There was double bad news this week, as both Paulo Dybala and Evan Ferguson required surgery, with Matias Soulé, Mario Hermoso, Artem Dovbyk and suspended Wesley not making the trip either.
“It is true that we have a lot of injuries concentrated in the attack, which is a coincidence that does not help. We’ve got El Shaarawy back, Robinio Vaz is very young and still adapting to a new league after arriving only six weeks ago. There will be time for him, Zaragoza and Venturino to develop over the course of the season.”
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma celebrates a goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on January 18, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Dybala has been ruled out for at least six weeks now with meniscus surgery, so will this influence Roma’s decision on whether or not to offer him a new contract?
“This does not affect the issue, we didn’t talk about Paulo’s contract before the injury and we don’t think it is fair to talk about it now. We just hope he can recover as quickly as possible, this will not affect our rapport with Dybala or the club’s strategy,” assured Massara.
LECCE, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma warms up prior the Serie A match between US Lecce and AS Roma at Stadio Via del Mare on January 06, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
Roma’s medical staff faced criticism for not suggesting an operation earlier, as it seems the meniscus in the knee had been damaged for over a month.
“I don’t wish to get into the medical details, it is always better to try conservative treatment first and focus on the health of the players. That is the priority. At least this resolves the problem and we’ll soon have him fully fit.”
Last week’s 3-3 draw with Juventus felt like a missed opportunity, fumbling a 3-1 lead to concede the equaliser in stoppages and confirming Roma’s poor record in the big games.
Daniele De Rossi admits he must put his love for Roma aside or ‘it wouldn’t allow me to do my job properly,’ and explains his big Genoa changes for this match.
It kicks off at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).
The Giallorossi will always be in his heart, first growing up as a supporter in the Eternal City, then as their player coming up through the youth academy to wear the captain’s armband, and again as coach.
“I went to the Olimpico as an away coach, obviously it is a place that belongs in my heart, but I have worked on putting the past aside, or it wouldn’t allow me to do my job properly,” De Rossi told Sky Sport Italia.
“The great thing about the Genoa fans is they make you feel at home here, their passion is remarkable.”
De Rossi changes Genoa to limit Roma
GENOA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa (left), celebrates after the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and Hellas Verona FC at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
De Rossi has made quite a few surprising changes to his Genoa side this evening, even taking into account that Brooke Norton-Cuffy and Sebastian Otoa are not fully fit.
He leaves Ruslan Malinovskyi, Vitinha and Lorenzo Colombo on the bench, introducing rapid young strikers Jeff Ekhator and Caleb Ekuban, who had never started together before.
GENOA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa, looks on prior to kick-off in the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and Hellas Verona FC at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
“They can run into space, they are pure strikers who like to sneak up behind defenders. Roma play an aggressive style, so we must be balanced, organised, and ready to get behind their defence,” explained the coach.
Stefano Sabelli and Patrizio Masini are also back in the Genoa starting XI, so is he trying to disorient Gian Piero Gasperini?
“Gasperini cannot be easily disoriented, he has been doing this for a lifetime and knows how to play against many different teams. I chose this line-up because these are the players who can interpret the approach I want for this match, which is going to be very different to the one against Torino, so we need different characteristics to draw upon.”
Piero Hincapie joined Arsenal on loan from Bayer Leverkusen last summer, with the Gunners having the option to turn it into a permanent deal at the end of this season. According to Fabrizio Romano, the initial loan agreement was necessary for Arsenal to comply with the Financial Fair Play regulations, and their plan was always […]
After getting knocked out of the FA Cup by Premier League side Chelsea, Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds issued an encouraging message to Wrexham.
Hollywood co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney were in the stands at Racecourse Ground to watch Wrexham‘s FA Cup run come to an end against Chelsea, as the Blues ended what had been a memorable campaign for the Red Dragons. In the aftermath, Reynolds took to social media to send an uplifting message to his team and its fans.
While also chasing promotion to the Premier League, Wrexham had put together an impressive FA Cup run, reaching the fifth round for the first time in 29 years after knocking out top-flight side Nottingham Forest and Ipswich Town. Tuesday’s clash with Chelsea, the reigning Club World Cup champions, represented arguably the biggest test the club has faced since Reynolds and McElhenney took over, with a quarterfinal berth up for grabs.
Wrexham led twice at Racecourse Ground, but Chelsea fought back to level it at 2-2, and a red card shown to George Dobson in the 90th-plus third minute proved to be the turning point. In extra time, the Premier League side took advantage of the numerical superiority to go ahead 3-2, and after a Wrexham equalizer was chalked off by VAR, Chelsea sealed the tie at 4-2.
Despite the defeat, Reynolds turned to his X account to celebrate the progress his club has made “Three years ago this week, we battled Maidenhead United to a draw. Today we pushed Chelsea to extra time. So incredibly proud of Wrexham’s performance today.“
Ryan Reynolds’ message after Chelsea game.
The post referenced a match played on March 4, 2023, when Wrexham traveled to York Road, a stadium with a capacity of just 4,500, to face Maidenhead United in the National League, ending in a 2-2 draw while still outside the English Football League. Fast-forward to today, and the Red Dragons are competing toe-to-toe with some of the best clubs in world soccer.
A first look at VAR
Having already eliminated Forest and Ipswich Town along the way, Wrexham encountered VAR for the first time in this cup run, as the technology is introduced from the fifth round onwards. Two key interventions tilted the tie against the Red Dragons: Dobson’s yellow card was upgraded to a red following a VAR review, and a Lewis Brunt goal that would have leveled the match at 3-3 was disallowed for a marginal offside call on his left foot.
In his post-match press conference, Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson defended his side’s performance. “In the second half I think we were the better team and I was confident we were going to win,” he said, before turning to the red card to Dobson: “The referee gave a yellow. I’m not sure of the rules, it’s the first time we’ve had VAR and it has to be clear and obvious to overturn it. I think the referee could have just kept it at a yellow.“
Referee Peter Bankes shows a red card to George Dobson of Wrexham.
Parkinson also reflected on the opportunities that arose in extra time despite being a man down. “I said at the break in extra time there are still going to be chances for us. Unfortunately we didn’t take one but we have to take a lot of heart from that performance. It’s been a great cup run. Tonight was a great spectacle and we were competitive against a very good side. We will take a lot of positives from it,” he concluded.
What’s next for Wrexham?
With the FA Cup behind them, Wrexham can now channel all of their energy into the EFL Championship and the promotion push they have been building toward all season. The Red Dragons currently sit sixth in the table with 57 points from 35 games, firmly inside the playoff places and riding a strong run of nine wins, two draws and two defeats from their last 13 matches.
Next up is a pivotal six-pointer at home against Hull City on Tuesday, March 10 at Racecourse Ground. The Tigers are fifth with 60 points from 36 games, one spot and three points ahead of Wrexham, but with the Red Dragons holding a superior goal difference, a home win would be enough to leapfrog Hull and move them into the top five.
AC Milan clashes with Inter Milan during Matchday 28 of the 2025/2026 Serie A campaign. Supporters in the United States can find here the complete kickoff schedules and broadcast details available for both television coverage and streaming services.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch AC Milan vs Inter on US television and via legal streaming:
The Derby della Madonnina returns this weekend with major implications in the Serie A title race as Inter Milan and AC Milan collide in one of Italy’s fiercest rivalries. Inter enter the showdown leading the standings with 67 points and holding a 10-point edge over their city rivals
The Nareazzurri sit on 57 and need a victory to keep their championship hopes alive. A win for Interwould tighten their grip on first place, while Milan sees this clash as a must-win moment to close the gap—don’t miss this high-stakes battle between two historic clubs.
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If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full Paramount+ soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
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A point takes Fiorentina out of the drop zone for the first time since October, but it feels like a wasted opportunity, as Parma are now practically safe.
The Viola’s positive run of form ground to a screeching halt after back-to-back defeats in the Conference League to Jagiellonia, even if they qualified in extra time, and 3-0 to Udinese in Serie A. Preparing for the Round of 16 with Rakow on Thursday, they couldn’t afford rotation in this relegation battle.
Dodo returned from suspension, replaced on the naughty step by Fabiano Parisi. Moise Kean, Manor Solomon, Luca Lezzerini and Tariq Lamptey were ruled out. Parma were revitalised by three straight wins and a draw against Cagliari, though Adrian Bernabé, Sascha Britschgi, Pontus Almqvist and Matija Frigan missed out. Zion Suzuki returned to the bench after surgery on a hand fracture in November.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 8: Fabio Paratici of ACF Fiorentina looks on during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Parma Calcio 1913 at Artemio Franchi on March 8, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Luca Ranieri couldn’t get control of a scuffed acrobatic volley on the Roberto Piccoli knockdown, while Gabriel Strefezza blasted over on the counter-attack after robbing Marco Brescianini.
Mandela Keita’s daisy-cutter from outside the area skimmed the base of the near post, but Fiorentina stepped up a gear after the restart, Jack Harrison’s cross for Piccoli forcing a desperate Enrico Delprato block.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 8: Albert Gudmundsson of ACF Fiorentina battles for the ball with Gabriel Strefezza of Parma Calcio 1913 during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Parma Calcio 1913 at Artemio Franchi on March 8, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Rolando Mandragora’s acrobatic volley sailed over, while both Piccoli and Giovanni Fabbian failed to get on the end of a Nicolò Fagioli cross from six yards.
The point takes Fiorentina out of the bottom three for the first time since October, but it means Parma are now almost guaranteed Serie A safety, and the Viola were jeered off the field by their own fans.
Hellas Verona caused a huge upset with this comeback victory away to Bologna, sealed by Kieron Bowie’s debut Serie A goal.
The Rossoblu put their recent crisis behind them with three consecutive victories and were gearing up for the Europa League Round of 16 against Roma. Remo Freuler was suspended, with Juan Miranda and Torbjorn Heggem injured, but Charalampos Lykogiannis returned. Rock bottom Verona added Armel Bella-Kotchap and Tobias Slotsager to the injury list with Sandi Lovric, Pol Lirola, Antoine Bernede and Suat Serdar, but Gift Orban was back after a two-match ban.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 08: Santiago Castro of Bologna controls the ball during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Hellas Verona FC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Santiago Castro’s swerving finish flashed wide from distance, then slipped at the crucial moment on a Jonathan Rowe pull-back.
Verona also threatened on the counter-attack, Lukasz Skorupski getting down to parry the Orban angled drive, while Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro’s shot accidentally hit teammate Orban.
Nadir Zortea drilled inches wide, but Bologna had a huge opportunity at the dawn of the second half when Riccardo Orsolini’s volley on a corner thumped the base of the upright.
The breakthrough came moments later, when Rowe started the move, spreading it down the right with Jens Odgaard and the Zortea pull-back, finding Rowe to sweep first-time through a sea of legs into the far bottom corner. It was his first Serie A goal.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 08: Jonathan Rowe of Bologna scores his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Hellas Verona FC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
It didn’t last long, as Verona responded immediately with a similar Martin Frese strike from the edge of the area, gathering a poor clearance.
Remarkably, Hellas then turned the game around on the counter-attack, as Orban got down the left and rolled across for the totally unmarked Kieron Bowie to sweep in undisturbed. This too was a debut Serie A goal for the ex-Hibernian striker.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 08: Kieron Bowie of Hellas Verona celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Hellas Verona FC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Bowie fired another attempt wide from distance, but Lorenzo Montipò got down for a fantastic save to fingertip the Odgaard strike out from the near bottom corner from the edge of the area.
There was controversy on 85 minutes when Roberto Gagliardini pushed Benjamin Dominguez on the edge of the area, but the referee waved play on, allowing Amin Sarr to sprint away from Jhon Lucumi and score the third for Verona. However, it was disallowed following the VAR review, as Gagliardini had both hands on the back of Dominguez.
Federico Bernardeschi’s free kick went over, then Castro couldn’t steer his cross on target.
The pressure is on Roma amid an injury crisis to get a win and stay in fourth place, as Donyell Malen and Lorenzo Venturino lead the way against Daniele De Rossi’s Genoa.
Wesley Franca sits out a ban too, so there has to be squad rotation, with 19-year-old former Genoa youth product Lorenzo Venturino getting his first start in support of fellow January signing Malen.
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Lorenzo Pellegrini of AS Roma in action during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
This will always be a special fixture for the two coaches, as Gian Piero Gasperini first made his mark at Genoa, while De Rossi remains a Roma legend.
Tommaso Baldanzi is on loan from the Giallorossi, but has barely featured and is out here with a muscular issue.
Genoa are fresh off a 2-0 defeat to Inter, with Brooke Norton-Cuffy and Sebastian Otoa still carrying knocks.
Lorenzo Colombo, Vitinha and Ruslan Malinovskyi are all benched in a surprising revamp.
GENOA, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa, celebrates after Junior Messias of Genoa’s goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and Bologna FC 1909 at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on January 25, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Getty Images)
This is a Scudetto battle at the top of the table between the runaway leaders and the only side keeping up the pace in second.
The Nerazzurri were already missing captain Lautaro Martinez, who has been out of action since he suffered a calf strain in the first leg of the Champions League play-off defeat to Bodo/Glimt.
Thuram unexpected Inter problem
COMO, ITALY – MARCH 03: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu during the Coppa Italia match between Como 1907 and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on March 03, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Thuram had been expected to lead the attack, but he came down with flu symptoms on Friday night and has not trained at all on Saturday or today.
There are growing reports the France international is struggling so much that he isn’t even going to be on the bench this evening.
It means an all-new front partnership of Francesco Pio Esposito and Ange-Yoan Bonny, who have never started a match together before.
There are other alternatives, as Inter used a new system for the Coppa Italia semi-final 0-0 draw with Como, moving Davide Frattesi and Andy Diouf into more advanced roles to support the centre-forward.
Hakan Calhanoglu is also tipped to make way for Piotr Zielinski and Henrikh Mkhitaryan in midfield, as the midweek trip to Como was his first start six weeks after injury.
Cremonese director of sport Simone Giacchetta was raging after the controversial finale of their 2-1 defeat to Lecce. ‘We feel damaged and disrespected’ by referees and VAR.
The Seahorses had been trailing 2-0 at the Stadio Via del Mare, but got back into it and pushed hard to the final whistle for an equaliser.
They had the ball in the net only for it to be disallowed for a handling offence, then there were penalty appeals waved away as Antonio Sanabria went down under a Gaby Jean challenge.
Cremonese vent fury after VAR non-call
“I am not here to comment on the match, but to clarify our position on the incident that compromised the game,” Giacchetta told DAZN Italia.
“For us, a team fighting for our Serie A safety, moments like this can decide the entire season.”
Although there was some contact between Jean and Sanabria, it was considered insufficient by VAR and the referee to warrant an On-Field Review or penalty.
“This is the second time I have had to intervene in the media, after an evident handling offence at the 95th minute from Simeone of Torino, which cost us an important point. Today, again at the 95th minute, Sanabria received decisive contact on his right foot,” continued the Cremonese director.
“These are the things that ruin the game, and indeed you heard there was suddenly a deathly silence in the stadium. It is a situation that penalises us.”
LECCE, ITALY – MARCH 08: Santiago Pierotti US Lecce scores his team’s opening goal during the Serie A match between US Lecce and US Cremonese at Stadio Via del Mare on March 08, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
This adds to the recent controversy about when and how VAR ought to intervene in Serie A, as there are different definitions of ‘clear and obvious error’ even within the same match.
“I don’t want to hear that the referee didn’t see it. I am here to complain that VAR did not intervene, seeing as they like to get involved for the tiniest details just to prove how important they are, and yet do nothing in a situation like this.
“We feel damaged and disrespected by this. There was confusion after the final whistle, the referee didn’t give us any explanation.
“We feel deprived of justice and respect. It was a penalty that should’ve been given on the field, but at the very least by VAR,” continued the Cremonese chief.
“These matches leave scars and today it also ended up penalising us further with a red card after the final whistle. VAR could’ve avoided all of that, especially after intervening to get our goal disallowed for Martin Payero.”
This result means Cremonese are in the bottom three and risk falling behind the clubs higher up the table.
Davide Nicola’s squad have scraped only five wins, nine draws and 14 defeats in Serie A this season, but their recent form has been simply disastrous.
Verdict: Viktor Gyokeres over 0.5 shots on target Best Odds: 2/3 Bookmaker: Olympusbet Turning their attention back to Champions League action on Wednesday evening, Arsenal will travel to Germany when they meet Bayer Leverkusen for their first-leg showdown. Bayer Leverkusen Starting with the hosts, while Bayer Leverkusen might have extended on their Champions League adventure […]
Andy Robertson has always been committed to Liverpool, even though a move to Tottenham was explored in January. Spurs entered into talks with Liverpool over signing Robertson in the winter transfer window. However, a move did not materialise, with the Reds electing to keep hold of the Scotland international, who is out of contract at […]
Benfica and Porto face off on Matchday 25 of the 2025–26 Primeira Liga. While José Mourinho’s side aims to close the gap in the standings, Francesco Farioli’s team is looking to extend its lead at the top of the table. Here are the predicted lineups for both sides.
Although SL Benfica managed to look quite competitive against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League, their reality in the 2025–26 Primeira Liga is completely different. With 58 points, they remain seven points behind the leaders, sitting in the Europa League qualification spots. Because of this, Benfica face Porto today, the current leaders, looking to reduce the gap. However, they do not have an easy task.
Porto have managed to remain the most dominant team in the league, being the most balanced side overall. Despite the ACL injury to top scorer Samu Aghehowa, coach Francesco Farioli has managed to maintain his team’s winning form, relying on Deniz Gül, supported by Oskar Pietuszewski and Pepê. However, the contribution of Gabri Veiga is expected to be decisive, as he has been the most outstanding player at a creative level.
Despite the defeat against Real Madrid, coach José Mourinho has managed to maintain a strong winning run with Benfica, coming off four consecutive victories. For this, the scoring contribution of Vangelis Pavlidis has been vital, as he has 20 goals in the Primeira Liga. However, their strength is based on the solidity of their midfield. In addition, Andreas Schjelderup is expected to be a difference-maker with his dribbling ability.
Far from being just another match, Benfica and Porto arrive with the urgency of securing victory in the game. While Mourinho’s side are looking to move closer to the Champions League spots, Farioli’s team aim to increase the gap over Sporting Lisbon, who are just three points behind them, putting their lead at risk. For this reason, both teams are expected to field their strongest lineups, promising a highly competitive clash.
SL Benfica players celebrating a goal vs, Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.
Benfica confirmed lineup vs. Porto
Even though Benfica arrive in strong winning form, they head into the match against Porto with two key absences: Georgiy Sudakov and Fredrik Aursnes. In addition, Bruma and João Veloso remain doubtful due to physical issues. Because of this, coach José Mourinho has included Richard Ríos in midfield alongside Enzo Barrenechea. Alongside this, he’s kept a lineup quite similar to recent matches, looking to maintain the team’s good form.
With this in mind, Benfica jumps to the pitch with the next XI: Anatoliy Trubin; Amar Dedić, Tomás Araújo, Nicolas Otamendi, Samuel Dahl; Richard Rios, Enzo Barrenechea; Gianluca Prestianni, Rafa Silva, Andreas Schjelderup; Vangelis Pavlidis.
Porto confirmed lineup vs. Benfica
Like Benfica, Porto arrive at today’s match with three key absences: Samu Aghehowa, Luuk de Jong, and Nehuén Pérez. However, coach Francesco Farioli still has impressive roster depth, which should allow the team to remain highly competitive. Led by Gabri Veiga, Victor Froholdt, and Pepê, they will look to dominate offensively. In addition, Rodrigo Mora could make the difference coming off the bench.
Considering this, Porto’s lineup goes as follows: Diogo Costa; Alberto Costa, Jan Bednarek, Jakub Kiwior, Martim Fernandes; Alan Varela, Victor Froholdt, Gabri Veiga; Pepê, Deniz Gul, Oskar Pietuszewski.
Nicolas Otamendi of SL Benfica and Gabri Veiga #17 of FC Porto.
Benfica and FC Porto meet in a Matchday 25 showdown during the 2025/2026 Primeira Liga season. Here you can find full match information, including kickoff time and details on how to watch the game on TV or through available streaming platforms.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Benfica vs Porto on US television and via legal streaming:
With the Primeira Liga title race heating up, Benfica head into a massive rivalry clash with Porto needing a victory to keep their championship hopes firmly alive. Benficacurrently sit seven points behind the league leaders, meaning anything less than three points would make the road to the title significantly tougher.
Meanwhile, Portoenter the weekend on top of the table with 65 points, holding a four-point advantage over Sporting CP and looking to strengthen their grip on first place with another statement win in one of Portugal’s most intense derbies. With pride, pressure, and the title race all on the line, this showdown promises high drama.
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If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full Fubo soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
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After dominating Serie A, AC Milan and Inter Milan face off in an exciting derby, where the Rossoneri will be looking to close the gap on the leaders. To this end, fans are keeping a close eye on Christian Pulisic's condition ahead of the game.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, AC Milan and Inter Milan have dominated Serie A convincingly. While the Nerazzurri have managed to remain league leaders, Massimiliano Allegri’s side are following closely behind Because of this, they face each other today in an exciting derby, with both teams looking to move closer to the league title. Given the Rossoneri’s need to secure a victory, they are closely monitoring Christian Pulisic’s fitness ahead of the match.
Following returning from his injury, Christian Pulisic has managed to stay in full physical condition, avoiding any relapses. For this reason, the USMNT star will start against Inter Milan, as he remains one of the team’s most important players. Although he is not currently in his best form, he could look to make this match his triumphant return to his top level, which could make him decisive.
Alongside the USMNT star, coach Allegri will rely on Rafael Leão, a duo that has proven to be quite effective throughout the season. However, Christopher Nkunku could have a key role off the bench, something he has often done in recent matches. In addition, Adrien Rabiot will once again be a decisive factor in organizing the attack, looking to be influential against the Nerazzurri.
Inter Milan remain the sole leaders of Serie A, holding a 10-point advantage over AC Milan. Despite this, they face growing pressure, as they were recently eliminated from the UEFA Champions League by Bodø Glimt, meaning fans may not accept another defeat. In addition, coach Cristian Chivu’s position could be at risk, as he lost the last derby — something that has raised concerns among supporters.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan shoots past Diego Carlos and Jacobo Ramon of Como 1907
AC Milan lineup vs. Inter Milan
Despite Christian Pulisic being in full physical condition, AC Milan still have three significant absences for the match against Inter Milan: Matteo Gabbia, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Santiago Gimenez. Because of this, coach Massimiliano Allegri will aim to keep a lineup quite similar to that of previous games, relying on Rabiot, Luka Modric and Youssouf Fofana in midfield. In addition, Strahinja Pavlovic will lead again the defense.
With this in mind, the Rossoneri will play as follows: Mike Maignan; Fikayo Tomori, Koni De Winter, Strahinja Pavlovic; Alexis Saelemaekers, Youssouf Fofana, Luka Modric, Adrien Rabiot, Pervis Estupiñan; Rafael Leao, Christian Pulisic.
Inter Milan lineup vs. AC Milan
Not only AC Milan face major absences, as Inter Milan will also be without their top scorer Lautaro Martínez due to a calf injury. Because of this, coach Cristian Chivu will rely on Ange-Yoan Bonny and Pio Esposito. Alongside this, the Nerazzurri will maintain their consistency in midfield, keeping Henrik Mkhitaryan, Piotr Zielinski and Nicolò Barella. With this, they aim to secure a victory to consolidate their lead at the top of the table.
Considering this, the Nerazzurri will lineup as follows: Yann Sommer; Yann Bisseck, Francesco Acerbi, Alessandro Bastoni; Luis Henrique, Nicolo Barella, Piotr Zielinski, Henrik Mkhitaryan; Federico Dimarco; Marcus Thuram, Pio Esposito.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan looks on during a Coppa Italia match.
Lecce secured a massive 2-1 win over Cremonese on Sunday, moving three points above the relegation zone.
Santiago Pierotti and Nikola Stulic’s goals allowed Lecce to take all three points in a home Serie A match against direct rivals Cremonese on Sunday, putting three points between them and the Grigiorossi in the Serie A table.
Goalkeeper Wladimiro Falcone also had a big role in Lecce’s crucial victory.
Lecce 2-1 Cremonese match report
Cremonese’s Morten Thorsby had the first chance in the game, but sent his header wide.
Just a few minutes later, Pierotti scored his first goal this season, making the most of Antonino Gallo’s corner kick from the right and Emil Audero’s poor decision to come out.
LECCE, ITALY – MARCH 08: Santiago Pierotti US Lecce scores his team’s opening goal during the Serie A match between US Lecce and US Cremonese at Stadio Via del Mare on March 08, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
The home side didn’t take long to double their lead. Matteo Bianchetti deflected Stulic’s shot with his right arm, which was placed in an unnatural position. Referee Simone Sozza initially gave a corner kick, but was then urged to the pitchside monitor to review the incident, which led to a penalty kick for the Giallorossi.
Stulic took the penalty and sent Audero the opposite way to double Lecce’s lead.
The Giallorossi dominated in the first half, leaving little chance to score for Cremonese, who also had to deal with an injury to Jamie Vardy, who picked up a knock and was forced to be subbed off during the break.
LECCE, ITALY – MARCH 08: Jamie Vardy of US Cremonese injured during the Serie A match between US Lecce and US Cremonese at Stadio Via del Mare on March 08, 2026, in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
It was, however, a blessing in disguise for the Lombardy-based club as Vardy’s replacement, Milan Djuric, immediately contributed to Cremonese’s goal.
The ex-Salernitana star used his body to take position at the edge of the box and provide a headed assist for Bonazzoli, who made a late run and beat Falcone at the far post with his first goal since the reverse fixture on December 7.
Djuric continued to make his presence felt inside the box and had a chance to score with an overhead kick saved by Wladimiro Falcone.
Spaces opened up for Lecce on the counterattack, and despite Lameck Banda’s pace down the left, the Giallorossi failed to create many goal-scoring opportunities.
On the other end, Cremonese mostly relied on long balls for Djuric to cause trouble for the home side.
Emil Audero partially redeemed himself with a save from Ylber Ramadani’s shot from distance.
Cremonese midfielder Martin Payero accidentally sent the ball inside the net with his right arm in the dying minutes. The referee initially confirmed the goal, but a silent VAR check quickly, and rightly, disallowed it.
Payero had another massive chance to level the score in stoppage time, but Falcone produced an impressive intervention from point-blank range.
Tension skyrocketed in the final minute as Cremonese demanded a penalty kick for a possible Gaby Jean foul on Antonio Sanabria, who was clear in front of Falcone after another header won by Djuric and a fortunate bounce at the edge of the box.
Referee Sozza, however, waved to play on, and VAR confirmed his decision, sparking Lecce’s celebrations.
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick commended the “special atmosphere” within his squad as they moved four points clear at the top of LaLiga with a 1-0 win over Athletic Club. The Blaugrana were not allowed to be at their best, and nearly went behind inside the first minute as Joao Cancelo inadvertently deflected a cross […]
The UEFA Champions League knockout stages return with a truly mouth-watering clash as the defending European champions, PSG, prepare to host the current FIFA Club World Cup winners, Chelsea.
The first leg at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday marks a high-stakes rematch of last summer’s global final, where the Blues convincingly won 3-0.
Luis Enrique’s side enters this tie under significant pressure following a disappointing 3-1 home defeat to Monaco in Ligue 1 over the weekend.
Meanwhile, Chelsea, led by Liam Rosenior, have faced a grueling domestic schedule but remain a formidable force in cup competitions.
With a place in the quarter-finals on the line, both managers face critical selection dilemmas.
How PSG could line up against Chelsea
PSG are sweating over the fitness of several key midfielders, with Joao Neves and Fabian Ruiz both major doubts due to recent injuries.
This could leave a heavy burden on teenage sensation Warren Zaïre-Emery to anchor the midfield alongside Vitinha.
In attack, Luis Enrique is expected to stick with his high-octane front three.
The creative burden will fall on Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who has been in scintillating form since his move to the French capital, supported by the lightning pace of Bradley Barcola and the veteran presence of the returning Ousmane Dembele.
Liam Rosenior has a defensive headache with Levi Colwill out long-term and Wesley Fofana a major doubt following a knock.
This likely means Trevoh Chalobah will continue his partnership with Jorrel Hato in the heart of the defence.
Further forward, Chelsea’s danger man Cole Palmer will be the focal point of the attack, operating just behind the prolific Joao Pedro.
Alejandro Garnacho could start on the left wing to provide much-needed directness against PSG’s attacking full-backs.
Predicted Chelsea starting XI vs PSG: Filip Jorgensen; Reece James, Trevoh Chalobah, Jorrel Hato, Marc Cucurella; Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez; Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, Alejandro Garnacho; Joao Pedro.
How to buy PSG tickets
Supporters can buy tickets through the club’s official ticketing page, which you can access via the link here.
However, due to the extremely high demand for seats at the Parc des Princes, particularly for high-profile Champions League fixtures, relying solely on the club’s website often makes finding available tickets very difficult.
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Most supporters are already familiar with Chelsea’s official ticket page, but buying directly from the club often brings difficulties, such as long queues, limited availability, and extra costs due to required membership fees.
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PSG vs Chelsea Head to Head
History suggests there is very little to separate these two modern giants.
Across 10 competitive meetings, the record is perfectly balanced with three wins apiece and four draws.
While PSG won the most recent Champions League knockout encounters in 2015 and 2016, Chelsea hold the bragging rights for the biggest trophy in their recent history.
The Blues’ 3-0 victory in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Final remains fresh in the memory, a night where Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro dismantled the Parisian defence in New Jersey.
PSG will be desperate for revenge on home soil to prove they are still the kings of Europe.
Fikayo Tomori says Ademola Lookman is one of the toughest opponents he’s faced in Serie A and is glad he didn’t go to Inter last summer: ‘We wouldn’t have been friends anymore.’
Milan centre-back Tomori will be happy he won’t face Lookman in tonight’s derby della Madonnina against Inter.
The Nigeria international was close to joining the Nerazzurri last summer, but La Dea refused to sell him to a domestic rival for less than €50m.
PISA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 13: Christian Pulisic and Fikayo Tomori of AC Milan greets the fans after during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and AC Milan at Arena Garibaldi on February 13, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Lookman spent the first part of the campaign in Bergamo before joining Atletico Madrid in the January window.
During his latest interview with The Athletic, Tomori mentioned Lookman as one of the best strikers he’s faced during his five-year stay at San Siro.
Tomori joked with Lookman after failed Inter transfer
Tomori is a friend of Lookman off the pitch and spoke to the striker after his collapsed move to Inter.
BERGAMO, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta crosses the ball while under pressure from Enrico Delprato of Parma Calcio 1913 during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Parma Calcio 1913 at Gewiss Stadium on January 25, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“I spoke to him when he stayed [at Atalanta], and I said: ‘If you went to Inter, we wouldn’t have been friends anymore,'” the English defender said, smiling.
Juventus target Bernardo Silva is not expected to extend his expiring contract with Manchester City, effectively becoming available for a free transfer over the summer.
Portuguese star Bernardo Silva won’t extend his contract with Manchester City, according to Marca transfer expert Matteo Moretto.
Bernardo Silva won’t sign Man City contract extension
According to the report, Bernardo Silva is unwilling to sign a new deal with the Premier League giants.
The Portugal international has scored 42 goals and provided 34 assists in 445 appearances for Manchester City.
In the current campaign, he has played 2.782 minutes, scoring twice and providing five assists.
Naturally, several clubs have been linked with signing the 31-year-old, including Benfica and Barcelona, according to Marca.
Italian sources claim that Juventus have already opened preliminary talks with the versatile midfielder’s entourage.
ORLANDO, FLORIDA – JUNE 30: Bernardo Silva #20 of Manchester City celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 round of 16 match between Manchester City and Al-Hilal at Camping World Stadium on June 30, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images)
Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti slapped USMNT international Weston McKennie during the Bianconeri’s celebration for Kenan Yildiz’s goal against Pisa.
Juventus won their first Serie A match in over a month on Saturday, beating strugglers Pisa 4-0 at home.
After Yildiz’s third goal at minute 75, most of the players ran towards the touchline to hug coach Luciano Spalletti on the day of his 67th birthday.
The Italian tactician also hugged his players, but then slapped McKennie when the American arrived.
It’s not the first time Spalletti has slapped one of his players, as he did the same in January with Lois Openda before the striker’s introduction in a Champions League match against Benfica.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Weston McKennie of Juventus FC celebrates a goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Safe to say, however, that Spalletti is delighted with McKennie’s performances this season, as the American has scored eight goals and recorded seven assists in 27 appearances under the Tuscan tactician and has earned a contract extension through 2030.
Video: McKennie slapped by Spalletti after Juventus’ goal
Wesley Sneijder admits he was surprised when José Mourinho started him against Milan in 2009, just a few hours after his move from Real Madrid and sees Piotr Zielinski as Inter’s ‘key man’ in 2025-26.
Former Inter star Sneijder previewed tonight’s Derby della Madonnina during an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport.
“First of all, this isn’t just a derby, it’s THE derby,” Sneijnder said.
“At San Siro, you can feel the weight of history. I’ve payed Real Madrid-Barcelona, which is a global clasico that involves different cities, and Galatasaray-Fenerbahce, which drives Istanbul crazy, but the fact that teams the size of Milan and Inter share the same stadium is always…wow! And this season the derby could even decide a Scudetto that is fully deserved. It’s not like two years ago when the Nerazzurri mathematically celebrated the title at Milan’s home, but if Cristian goes to +13 who could possibly think of catching him?”
Inter are the Serie A table leaders with a 10-point advantage over their city rivals who sit second and have only lost twice in Serie A this term.
“Milan are a clever team. They have the character of their coach,” Sneijder continued.
“They know how to sit back, wait for you and punish you. They have midfielders like Rabiot, but Inter are superior in possession. Calhanoglu is back now, but the key man this season is Zielinski. Last season, I kept asking myself ‘why doesn’t he play?’ Now, instead, the ball always goes through him.”
Sneijder is a proper Inter legend as he was part of the team that won the treble under Mourinho in 2009-10. When the Dutchman arrived at San Siro, he was immediately started in a derby against Milan.
“I had barely stepped off the plane at the end of Augst 2009, when José said to me: ‘You’ll be playing against Milan.’ How many others would have done that? It ended 4-0 for us. It felt like I had known Milito and Eto’o my whole life,” Sneijder said.
“After the match, I realised Mourinho was serious when he said the only thing he was missing to win everything was a No.10. He hadn’t just said it to convince me. He simply saw the future.”
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 20: Coutinho, Cristian Chivu and Wesley Sneijder of Inter Milan celebrates after the first goal during the UEFA Champions League group A match between FC Internazionale Milano and Tottenham Hotspur at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on October 20, 2010 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
Inter coach Chivu was also part of that legendary Inter team and Sneijder sees a similarity between his former teammate and his ex-coach Mourinho.
“Comparisons like that don’t make sense and are dangerous. But like José, Cristian says wht he thinks without needing to please everyone and he goe straight down his own path,” he said.
“Chivu has to defend Inter from everything and everyone. Look at the Bastoni case, so many pointless controversies. Sooner or later, people will get tired of booing; but what I like the most is the player’s reaction. The criticism just slides off him. That’s how it should be done.”
Verdict: Both teams to score Best Odds: 8/15 Bookmaker: Dachbet In what has almost become an annual Champions League knockout stage showdown, Real Madrid will welcome Manchester City to the Bernabeu for their first-leg battle on Wednesday night. Real Madrid Starting with the hosts, snatching a sensational last-gasp winner away at Celta Vigo over the […]
Verdict: Luis Diaz over 0.5 shots on target Best Odds: 4/7 Bookmaker: Olympusbet Getting their Champions League Round of 16 adventure underway on Tuesday night, Bayern Munich will travel to Bergamo when they meet Atalanta. Atalanta Starting with the hosts, mounting what was an iconic Champions League comeback on February 25th as they eventually dragged […]
Verdict: Atletico Madrid win Best Odds: 2/3 Bookmaker: Luckster Turning their attention to Champions League action on Tuesday night, Tottenham will travel to the Spanish capital when they meet Atletico Madrid for their first-leg showdown. Atletico Madrid Starting with the hosts, extending on their Champions League adventure last month as they secured a thrilling 7-4 […]
Lecce look to Nikola Stulic in a crucial Serie A match against Jamie Vardy’s Cremonese.
It kicks off at 12:30 CET (11:30 GMT) at the Stadio Via del Mare.
It promises to be a dramatic match in the race for survival, with the two sides level on 24 points, alongside Fiorentina.
Technically, Lecce are in the relegation zone, but only by goal difference.
The Giallorossi, however, have earned six points in the last five matches, while Cremonese only grabbed one in the same period.
LECCE, ITALY – JANUARY 11: Nikola Stulic of US Lecce celebrates after scoring his team’s opening goal during the Serie A match between US Lecce and Parma Calcio 1913 at Stadio Via del Mare on January 11, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
The Grigiorossi seemed safe just a few weeks ago, but they have been winless since the reverse fixture on December 7 and have scored only one goal in the last eight games.
Medon Berisha, Francesco Camarda, Olaf Gorter and Kialonda Gaspar are unavailable for Lecce, while Cremonese have travelled south without the injured Michele Collocolo, Federico Baschirotto, Faris Moumbagna and the suspended Filippo Terracciano.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 01: Jamie Vardy of Cremonese acknowledges the fans as he leaves the pitch after being substituted during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and US Cremonese at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 01, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Lecce and Cremonese‘s rival Fiorentina play later today at 15:00 CET, hosting Parma at the Stadio Franchi.
Riccardo Calafiori was subbed off during Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Mansfield Town on Saturday due to a suspected hamstring injury, with Mikel Arteta claiming that the Italian wasn’t ‘comfortable continuing.’
Italy international Calafiori was forced to be substituted in the second half of Arsenal’s win in the FA Cup Round 5 against Mansfield Town on Saturday.
As reported by Football London, Calafiori felt discomfort in his hamstring, so he was replaced with less than 15 minutes left to play. Leandro Trossard was also subbed off due to an injury.
“Both of them had little niggles, they weren’t comfortable continuing,” Arteta explained.
“We knew this could be apossibility, especially in the conditions we were playing in today. We had to take them off.”
Calafiori has made 27 appearances across all competitions this season, scoring one goal and providing three assists.
The Italy international already missed nine matches due to a muscle injury between December 2025 and January 2026.
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Riccardo Calafiori of Italy in action during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso will surely be following the situation closely as La Nazionale play in the World Cup play-off semifinal against Northern Ireland on March 26.
Calafiori has 12 international appearances to his name, including three under the new Azzurri boss.
LEEDS, ENGLAND – JANUARY 31: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Leeds United and Arsenal at Elland Road on January 31, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Andriy Shevchenko feels Milan can reopen the title race if they beat Inter tonight and does not believe that Christian Pulisic is already focused on the World Cup with the USMNT.
“The ten-point gap in the table doesn’t mean much. If Milan win, the title race is open again. The derby can change the fate, especially at this point in the season,” Sheva said.
“All games will be unpredictable for everybody, until the end.”
Inter are the runaway table leaders in Serie A and have proved to be the best team in Italy to this point.
“As a team, yes. They are currently the best in Italy, and I like the way Chivu coaches them,” said the ex-Milan star.
“He’s always been smart, even as a footballer. He had creativity on the field, and he’s proving to be a good coach. You can see that the team respects him and has a nice playing style.”
Milan sit second but have only lost two Serie A games this season under Massimiliano Allegri.
“Max is a guarantee. He has transformed Milan,” Shevchenko said.
“He has given competitiveness to the team and has made the players stronger. He has experience and precise characteristics. He shapes a group with his ideas, and he’s a formidable manager.”
Christian Pulisic has had a fantastic start to the season, but he has not yet scored a goal in 2026. The American star has been on and off the pitch in the first three months of the year due to recurring injuries, including bursitis.
“Don’t believe the story that a player of his calibre is already thinking about the World Cup. It’s impossible,” Shevchenko said.
“When a player goes on the pitch, he always wants to give his best at that moment. Pulisic has scored important goals and will continue to do so, first for Milan and then for the USMNT at the World Cup.”
Rafael Leao will partner with Pulisic in the Milan attack tonight.
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 01: Rafael Leao of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AC Milan at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
“Rafa is proving to have matured. He tries to give his best in a role other than his natural one to follow the coach’s demands,” Shevchenko said.
“Capello is right. He’s not a centre-forward, but he’s able to carry out his tasks, attack the space and be ready. When you rely on quick counter-attacks, Rafa’s sprints are decisive. Then you can’t expect him to hold the ball or be a No.9 like Ibrahimovic, because he has a different skill set.”
Luka Modric has proved to be a vital player for Milan, despite being 40.
“He must stay until he has the fire inside. Despite his charisma, he helps and is available, without asking for anything in return,” Shevchenko concluded.
“He’s having an extraordinary season, and we all know his qualities. I played against him, and the way he interprets the game is astonishing. He’s a fantastic person, too, a good guy. He plays with intensity, sacrifice and team spirit.”
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola will be serving a two-game touchline ban following his sixth booking of the season against Newcastle United.
Manchester City secured a comfortable 3-1 win over Newcastle in the fifth round of the FA Cup. While they booked a spot in the quarter-finals of the cup competition without much trouble, they did receive a blow as Pep Guardiola picked up another yellow card. According to a report via the Irish News, the Spanish manager is facing a two-game touchline ban following his sixth booking.
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Pep Guardiola’s team return to winning ways
Guardiola made ten changes to the team that played out a 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest in the league mid-week, and his team responded with an impressive performance against Eddie Howe’s men.
They dominated the proceedings and secured a spot in the last eight of the competition. While all went according to plan, a fuming Guardiola entered the referee’s book for the sixth time this season.
The Spanish manager confronted fourth official Lewis Smith on the touchline after Kieran Trippier took out Jeremy Doku. He wasn’t pleased with the referee’s decision and got himself booked.
Following his sixth booking, he will now be serving a two-game touchline ban, which means he will miss the league game against West Ham and won’t be available for their FA Cup quarter-finals.
Following the booking, Guardiola said, “I will tell you something – we have all the records in this country, all of them, despite everything. We have the record of the manager with the most yellow cards. I want all records and now I have it.
“Two-game ban now and I will go on holidays the next two games. There are things after 10 years I cannot understand.
“Review the action. Of course I’m going to defend Doku and all my teams.”
Guardiola getting himself booked and receiving a touchline ban was the only downside for his team on the night, as they clearly outplayed Newcastle and secured a fourth successive win over the Magpies in five outings this term.
Chelsea are keen on acquiring the services of West Ham United defensive sensation El Hadji Malick Diouf.
West Ham United’s chances of surviving in the English top flight have drastically improved in recent weeks, as some of their key players have stepped up in crunch situations. While they remain in the bottom three, they are level on points with 17th-placed Nottingham Forest. A few more positive results could help them jump out of the drop zone.
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While Axel Disasi and Crysensio Summerville have played a big part in their revival, El Hadji Malick Diouf has also stood out with his performances. The 21-year-old full-back’s performances haven’t gone unnoticed, and according to a report via West Ham World, Chelsea are keen on signing the Senegalese international.
Chelsea are keeping tabs on El Hadji Malick Diouf
The young left-back has impressed since joining the Hammers from Prague last summer. He has been one of their most reliable performers, and the Blues are now looking at him as an ideal option to further bolster their backline.
He is firmly on the radar of Chelsea, who are exploring ways to bring him to Stamford Bridge this summer. They believe he could compete with Marc Cucurella for a place in the starting XI and could prove to be a great investment for the long run.
However, it will be interesting to see if they do make a formal offer in the near future. As far as the Hammers are concerned, they will certainly be reluctant to part ways with the youngster just 12 months after adding him to their squad.
He is currently valued at around £24 million, which certainly won’t be a problem for the Blues. Meanwhile, West Ham will have to ensure they survive in the top flight to have any chance of keeping hold of the 21-year-old.
Daniel Farke’s Leeds United are all set to hold contract renewal talks with skipper Ethan Ampadu.
Ethan Ampadu has done wonders for Leeds United since joining them from Chelsea back in 2023. While he remains an integral part of their plans, his future has been a major talking point, with his contract expiring in 2027. According to Football Insider, Daniel Farke’s team are set to hold talks with the Welsh international as they look to secure his long-term future.
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Ethan Ampadu’s impressive rise at Leeds United
While things didn’t work out for the 25-year-old at Stamford Bridge, he has established himself as one of the mainstays at the Yorkshire-based outfit. The defensive midfielder has been one of the standout performers for Leeds United this season, as they look to survive the drop zone.
Farke’s team are three points clear of the drop zone, and if they manage to stay in the English top flight, it will significantly boost their chances of securing the long-term future of Ampadu with a new deal.
Leeds United to prioritise Ampadu’s contract renewal
While Leeds United have been looking at a few midfield alternatives, their priority is to ensure their skipper continues at the club. His experience and leadership qualities are very important for the team as a whole.
More importantly, his ability to feature in the heart of the defence as well as the midfield make him a very valuable part of their setup. The club is all set to hold talks with his camp regarding a new deal, as they do not want him to enter the final year of his contract.
Jurgen Klopp has no intentions of parting ways with the Red Bull group despite reports suggesting Oliver Glasner could replace him.
The German tactician parted ways with Liverpool back in 2024 after a highly successful stint at Anfield, and he has been widely linked with a return to management ever since. Real Madrid and Manchester United seem keen on his signature, but according to Pete O’Rourke via Football Insider, Jurgen Klopp is not considering leaving his role at Red Bull.
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Jurgen Klopp will continue at Red Bull
While reports suggest that Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner is set to replace the former Liverpool manager at Red Bull, Klopp is happy in his current role and has no intentions of moving on. The 58-year-old German manager is enjoying life away from the stress of club management.
While speaking about Klopp leaving the Red Bull group, O’Rourke said, “Yeah, I would say it’s very unlikely that something like that would happen.
“Obviously, Red Bull officials did come out and deny those suggestions at Jurgen Klopp could leave his role there and potentially return to management.
“Look, there’ll always be interest in Jurgen Klopp as a manager because of what he’s done throughout his career, but it seems he’s happy in his current role at Red Bull.
“So I don’t think there’s any chance that the Red Bull will be pushing him out the door or anything like that.
“Again, Glasner, as you said, has links to the Red Bull operation but I don’t see him rushing to leave the managerial dugout anytime soon.
“So I don’t think there’s any indication that Glasner’s ready to give up his coaching career just yet.
“As I said Jürgen Klopp seems happy at Red Bull and what he’s doing and Red Bull are happy with him so looks like a bit of a non-starter that report to me.”
Glasner is all set to part ways with Crystal Palace at the end of the season. He is currently focused on finishing his stint at Selhurst Park on a high note and is unlikely to take up a role outside of management.
He has worked for the Red Bull group in the past, which is one of the major reasons why he has been linked with the job. However, with Klopp going nowhere, the door is already closed.
More importantly, Glasner would want to continue as a manager at this stage of his career. Given the kind of impact he has had at Crystal Palace, there should be a host of clubs that would love to have him on their bench.
Rangers FC and Celtic FC clash in the quarterfinal round of the 2025/2026 Scottish Cup. Fans in the United States can learn here the date, venue, kickoff time, and the TV or streaming options available to follow the match live.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Rangers vs Celtic on US television and via legal streaming:
The stakes couldn’t be higher when Celticand Rangers collide once again in the legendary Old Firm, a showdown that feels like a semifinal before the actual semifinal. The Glasgow rivals have been separated by the slimmest margin all season in the Scottish Premiership standings, with Celtic holding 58 points and Rangersright behind at 57.
The situation of both makes this clash a true toss-up between two sides carrying similar momentum. With a spot in the next round on the line and pride always part of the equation in this rivalry, expect intensity from the opening whistle—this is the kind of match fans won’t want to miss.
More details on how to watch
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Jean Onana, Tommaso Baldanzi and Sebastian Otoa are unavailable for the home side, while the Giallorossi have travelled to Genoa without Mario Hermoso, Paulo Dybala, Matias Soulé, Evan Ferguson and Artem Dovbyk.
According to multiple sources, including Sky Sport Italia, Daniele Ghilardi will get the nod in a three-man defence for Roma, while Niccolò Pisilli and Lorenzo Pellegrini will play as attacking midfielders.
According to Gazzetta, however, Pisilli could even play in central midfielder to let Bryan Cristante rest and start Lorenzo Venturino as an attacking midfielder.
The 19-year-old joined Roma from Genoa in the January window.
English defender Brook Norton-Cuffy is available for Genoa, but has just returned from an injury, so he’s expected to start on the bench.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Donyell Malen of AS Roma celebrates scoring their third goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Genoa vs. Roma – where to watch on TV
TNT Sports 2 and DAZN in the UK and Ireland, and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a live blog.
Milan will look to Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic in the Derby della Madonnina against Inter, while Cristian Chivu will pick Francesco Pio Esposito and Ange-Yoan Bonny up front.
It kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 GMT) at the Stadio Maradona in San Siro, Milan.
Inter are the table leaders with a 10-point advantage over their city rivals.
The Nerazzurri, however, are without their captain and best scorer, Lautaro Martinez, while Marcus Thuram has had fever and is unlikely to start.
Milan must cope without Santiago Gimenez, Matteo Gabbia and Ruben Loftus-Cheek. Davide Bartesaghi is available after suffering a minor injury against Cremonese last weekend, so Pervis Estupinan is the favourite to start as a left midfielder.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan competes for the ball with Manuel Akanji of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
According to several sources, including Gazzetta and Sky Sport Italia, Hakan Calhanoglu will start on the bench for Inter, with Nicolò Barella, Piotr Zielinski and Henrikh Mkhitaryan getting the nod in central midfield.
Milan will look to Pulisic and Leao in attack, with Niclas Fullkrug and Christopher Nkunku available on the bench.
Milan vs. Inter – where to watch on TV
The match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1 and DAZN in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a live blog.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: A general view of the stadium during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Milan vs. Inter – probable line-ups
Milan (3-5-2):Maignan; Tomori, De Winter, Pavlovic; Saelemaekers, Fofana, Modric, Rabiot, Estupiñán; Leão, Pulisic.
Inter (3-5-2): Sommer; Bisseck, Akanji, Bastoni; Luis Henrique, Barella, Zielinski, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Esposito, Bonny.
Inter to kill off the season, Milan to keep it open
San Siro, 20:45. Modric, Dimarco (and not only), but the Scudetto night also passes from their feet. Allegri wants the -7 with Leao-Pulisic. Chivu the +13 with Pio and the doubt Thuram.
Yildiz’s show, Juve score four
Birthday gift to Spalletti and renewal. The Champions is one point away, waiting for Roma. Como win and move to fourth.
Corriere dello Sport
Madonnina, what a derby
Thuram has a fever. Bonny with Esposito. Chivu: ‘No calculations.’ The doubt is Calha. The Nerazzurri haven’t won a derby for 23 months. Allegri: ‘Our target is to qualify for the Champions League. Future? I’m good here.’ Estupinan remains favourite over Bartesaghi.
Kenan anti-Cesc
Champions League race
Lucio knocks down Pisa (4-0). Fabregas shocks Cagliari (1-2).
Yildiz transforms Juve. Como catch Roma
Goal and assist of the Turkishman. Cambiaso, Thuram, and Boga also score. Now Spalletti is -1 from the fourth placement: big hug with the players.
Gasp: ‘No excuses.’
Dybala, Hermoso and Soulé out: ‘We won’t stop.’
Conte and the Belgian Napoli
Big Roma and Kevin, first time together at a club level.
Tuttosport
Yildiz’s mark
Goal and assist: 4-0 to Pisa. Juve return to winning ways
The Turkishman provides the assist for Cambiaso and after Thuram’s goal, he invents a spectacular tris. Boga introduced for the disastrous David, breaks the game and scores the fourth. Spalletti wins a Serie A game for the first time in over a month, replies to Como and moves one point below Roma (today at Genoa’s home). Kenan: ‘Many blows hurt, but we go forward.’ Khephren: ‘Birthday gift for the coach.’
Leao, comeback fury. Lautaro pushes Pio
Max jokes about Rafa: ‘If he stayed home every night, he was wrong.’ Martinez on the bench even if he’s injured.
Cairo, now the others push him to sell too
Chants at the Maradona after those at Marassi. Beccaria of Filadelfia Foundation: ‘Toro considerreduce the museum.’
Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United are plotting a summer raid on Tottenham Hotspur to sign Dominic Solanke.
Newcastle United are gearing up for an important transfer window where they could undergo significant changes. Eddie Howe’s team seem to be gearing up to sign a marquee forward. According to a report from the Daily Mail, the Magpies are interested in signing Dominic Solanke.
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Newcastle keen on Dominic Solanke
The Tottenham forward has emerged as a potential summer target for the Tyneside club, who are keen on bolstering their attack amidst uncertainty around William Osula’s future. They want a proven goal scorer in the final third and would love to reunite Solanke with Howe.
The English manager is well aware of the 28-year-old’s game and would love to have him at his disposal alongside Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa. However, a lot will depend on the North London club’s Premier League status.
Despite his injury struggles, Solanke remains an integral part of their plans, and they would want to keep him in their squad even if they went down. However, relegation will make it very difficult for them to keep hold of the former Bournemouth star.
Since returning from his ankle injury, he has been involved in 11 games and has managed to bag five goals for a team that has been struggling to get going. Given how important he is to their setup, Spurs would try everything in their power to keep hold of him.
However, if they fail to survive the drop, the Magpies will push hard to secure his services in a bargain deal. Despite his contract running until 2030, Tottenham will have very little control over his future if they are competing in the Championship next season.
Unai Emery’s Aston Villa are looking to sign RB Leipzig’s Romulo Cardoso as a replacement for Ollie Watkins.
Romulo Cardoso has had an impressive start to his life in the Bundesliga, and his performances have caught Aston Villa’s attention. According to a report from GiveMeSport, Unai Emery’s team are looking at the Brazilian forward as an ideal replacement for Ollie Watkins.
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Aston Villa are keen on Romulo Cardoso
Cardoso arrived at the German club last summer as a replacement for Benjamin Sesko, and he has certainly lived up to the expectations. The 24-year-old has been involved in 21 league games and has contributed to 11 goals (7 goals, 4 assists). He has managed to adjust to life in the Bundesliga without much trouble.
His performances haven’t gone unnoticed, and Aston Villa are already making plans to sign the Brazilian forward this summer. Emery is desperate to have more firepower next season after falling away in the Premier League title race and finding themselves in a battle to secure a Champions League spot.
Lack of goals has become a massive concern for the club, and management are looking at potential options to address that issue. Cardoso is quite high on their wishlist following his performances for Leipzig.
He has a strong physical presence and eye for goal; as a result, Aston Villa consider him an ideal replacement for Watkins, who is expected to be on the move this summer. Cardoso is a top target for the Premier League club, and it will be interesting to see if they can strike a deal with the German outfit, who value him at €55-60 million.
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Robin Roefs has done well in the Premier League
Roefs joined the Black Cats from NEC Nijmegen last summer and has only gone from strength to strength since. He has been one of Sunderland’s standout performers and is a major reason they find themselves mid-table following their return to the Premier League.
He has kept eight clean sheets in his 28 league outings, and his overall performances haven’t gone unnoticed. The 23-year-old Dutch goalkeeper has made quite a name for himself, and a host of clubs are now after him.
Chelsea are one of the clubs that are keen on his signature. Robert Sanchez, who is currently the preferred choice in goal, hasn’t been consistent enough, and they seek an upgrade in that position. The Blues consider Roefs an ideal fit for their project and have decided to step up their concrete interest in his services.
The London club’s scouts have been very impressed with what they have seen from him and consider him capable of playing for a Champions League club. While there will be a significant amount of competition for his signature and Sunderland reportedly value him at around £50 million, Chelsea are still willing to push for his signature.
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Man United eye Ibrahim Sangare move
Sources close to the situation have informed CaughtOffside that United scouts have been “impressed” by his dominance in duels and composure under pressure. Standing at 1.91m, Sangare’s profile makes him a direct candidate to replace Casemiro. Bayern Munich and Liverpool have tracked him in the past, while Aston Villa and West Ham are also monitoring his situation.
Forest, who signed him in 2023 for around €35 million, intends to open negotiations at a higher figure. Talks are expected to focus on the €45–50 million range. With the club needing at least one major sale this summer, Sangare, along with Elliot Anderson and Murillo, is among their most valuable assets. He remains under contract until 2028, giving Forest leverage in discussions.
Sangare has now fully adapted to the Premier League’s pace, becoming a “barrier” in front of the defence. United may prefer him over more expensive options like Adam Wharton or Carlos Baleba, seeing him as a cost‑effective solution.
Forest supporters would be reluctant to see him leave, but many acknowledge that a big‑money transfer could be a necessary step to secure the club’s future budget.
Manchester United have the financial muscle to wrap up the move, and it remains to be seen whether they step up their pursuit with an official offer in the summer. Sangare could prove to be a transformative addition for them.
Liam Rosenior defended his decision to rotate much of his Chelsea team in their dramatic extra-time victory over Championship side Wrexham in the FA Cup. Chelsea emerged 4-2 victors at SToK Cae Ras on Saturday but were pushed the distance by their opponents, who saw George Dobson sent off in the 93rd minute. Sam Smith’s […]
Lamine Yamal scored the only goal as Barcelona restored their four-point lead at the top of LaLiga with a narrow 1-0 win away to Athletic Club on Saturday. Having seen Real Madrid close the gap following their dramatic win over Celta Vigo a day earlier, Hansi Flick’s side responded to stay clear of their Clasico […]
Luciano Spalletti seemed to send a message to Juventus about the future of Jonathan David and Lois Openda. ‘Kenan Yildiz would do even better if he had a Number 9 near him.’
The Bianconeri ended their dismal run of results with the first Serie A victory since February 1, crushing Pisa 4-0 with all the goals in the second half scored by Andrea Cambiaso, Khephren Thuram, Kenan Yildiz and Jeremie Boga.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus scores his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
It is notable that the breakthrough and vast improvement only came after the break, when David and Federico Gatti had been substituted by Boga and Lloyd Kelly.
Yildiz was moved to the False 9 role and found his goal, but Spalletti’s comments felt like a pointed reminder of his January transfer requests.
Spalletti wanted a new striker at Juventus
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Head Coach Luciano Spalletti of Juventus FC looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
“A centre-forward needs to have either a physical impact, or great technical quality,” the coach told DAZN Italia.
“There aren’t many spaces against sides like Pisa, so you must be able to weight the pass correctly, we showed that we did have the situations to cause problems.
“It becomes more difficult for Yildiz to play like this, because these are not his characteristics, he is not at ease with his back to goal.”
Speaking to Sky Sport Italia, Spalletti was even clearer with his messaging on what he wanted from the attack, which David and Openda simply do not provide.
“Yildiz would do even better if he had a Number 9 near him.”
The tactician made no secret of his desire to sign a real centre-forward during the January transfer window, but negotiations for players like Randal Kolo-Muani and Youssef En-Nesyri faltered.
We may well soon see more of what Spalletti had envisaged, because Dusan Vlahovic is back in training after an adductor tear in November 2025.
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 04: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between Juventus and Sporting Clube de Portugal at Juventus Stadium on November 04, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
The statistics point to a worrying strength on one side and weakness on the other, suggesting set plays could be decisive for Milan and Inter in the Derby della Madonnina.
It kicks off at San Siro on Sunday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
This is a Scudetto showdown as well as bitter local rivalry, because Inter are top of the Serie A table and Milan trail in second place, a full 10 points behind.
That in itself is rather remarkable, considering that the Rossoneri have amassed 57 points after 27 rounds, the exact same number that they had at this stage in 2021-22 on their way to winning the title.
At that time, it was enough to put them joint top with Napoli, two points clear of Inter, but now it has them floundering in second place.
Milan weakness is Inter strength
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Yann Bisseck of FC Internazionale scores the opening goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Looking at the statistics, a pattern emerges that makes a goal from dead ball situations a very distinct possibility in this big match.
That is because Inter scored 21 Serie A goals this season from set plays, including 15 alone on corner kicks.
Only Arsenal have been more effective from these situations in Europe’s top five leagues this term.
On the other hand, Inter’s strength also represents Milan’s biggest weakness, because Max Allegri’s side have conceded 50 per cent of all their goals from set plays.
His team let in 20 goals in 27 games, 10 of them were from dead ball situations, five on corners.
Luciano Spalletti celebrates his 67th birthday, explains his changes that transformed Juventus to beat Pisa 4-0 and warns Jeremie Boga ‘is a bit too sluggish at times.’
It proved to be a very happy birthday indeed for the coach, who had not been able to celebrate a real victory since February 1 after a run of two points in four Serie A rounds, Champions League and Coppa Italia elimination.
They took a while to break Pisa down, but ran riot in the second half with Andrea Cambiaso, Khephren Thuram, Kenan Yildiz and Jeremie Boga goals for a 4-0 result.
Spalletti realised that his team was struggling in the early stages and made a tactical adjustment, moving them from 4-2-3-1 into a 3-4-3 formation, aided by the versatility of players like Cambiaso, Yildiz and Weston McKennie.
Another important change was the removal of misfiring Jonathan David at half-time, replaced by the lively Boga.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Khephren Thuram of Juventus celebrates after scoring the his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
“There are different moments of the match, as Yildiz scored, but the spaces had already opened up because we were in the lead,” explained Spalletti.
“The density of the first half was very different, so if Kenan starts from out wide, which he enjoys because he can see everything in front of him, and it is also a very different type of marking that he has to deal with.
“It is a slightly different type of work for a striker to be in the centre. Of course, once Pisa were trailing, they couldn’t maintain that solidity with the long ball for the two physical strikers, forcing you to chase back. It’s not easy to play through that density, we have difficulties in those situations.
“If Yildiz had a centre-forward next to him, it’d be better, because that figure can take some of the physical impact of dealing with the defenders and ease the pressure on Yildiz. In the first half, we couldn’t find the spaces or go around them by moving the ball quickly.”
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Kenan Yildiz (L) of Juventus celebrates with Francisco Conceicao (R) after scoring the his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
It wasn’t just David who was substituted at half-time, because Lloyd Kelly also replaced Federico Gatti.
“Everything improved after the break, the speed of movement, we talked about a few things. I took Federico off too not because he hadn’t done well, but because you need someone with better feet to play out from the back when there’s that packed midfield in front of you,” continued Spalletti.
“I felt bad taking Gatti off, it was between him and Bremer, I might choose differently next time.”
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Jeremie Boga of Juventus celebrates after scoring the his team’s fourth goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
Boga has proved to be quite a good investment in January and again was a livewire off the bench, this time also scoring a goal.
“Boga has that quality, we all know that, but he’s a bit too sluggish at times. He needs to be more determined, grittier, because we know he has that pace to shock opposition defenders, but he has to give it that fire too.
“The bench is not a waiting area, it is an extra part of the team. In modern football, you pick players who can do damage in certain moments of the match, who provide something unexpected. Those on the bench are watching, they can see where the spaces are and what spots they can attack, they are participating and learning throughout,” concluded Spalletti.
The race for a Champions League spot looks as if it will go down to the wire, as Como won away to Cagliari today and remain in fifth place, waiting for Roma’s trip to Genoa on Sunday.
Liverpool have reportedly beaten arch-rivals Manchester City to the signature of American wonderkid Noah “Dash” Allen, according to the latest reports from BallerzScout.
The 14-year-old sensation, who has already drawn comparisons to USMNT icon Christian Pulisic, is the latest high-profile youth prospect to join the Reds’ burgeoning academy at Kirkby.
The move marks a significant victory for Liverpool’s recruitment team, as they have managed to secure a talent that had previously been training within the Manchester City setup as recently as late 2024.
The young winger, widely known by the nickname “Dash” due to his explosive pace, recently completed a successful trial on Merseyside.
During his time at the academy, Allen reportedly shone in several fixtures, notably netting a goal against Birmingham City that sealed the club’s decision to offer a permanent spot in their youth ranks.
Born in 2012, Allen’s journey has come full circle; he was born in England before moving to the United States at a young age.
After developing his skills in the Colorado Rapids youth system, he has now returned to the UK to begin his professional journey with the Premier League leaders.
Player profile: Who is Noah Allen?
At just 14 years old, Allen is already being heralded as one of the standout American prospects of his generation.
He is primary a right-winger, but capable of operating as a creative “Number 10.”
Known for his blistering pace, Allen has elite technical skill, and a “star-man” charisma on the pitch.
Regarded as one of the brightest talents to emerge from America, all eyes will now be on the young attacker who will now hope to develop into a top player at Liverpool.
Chelsea avoided a huge FA Cup upset as extra-time goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Joao Pedro helped seal a hard-fought 4-2 victory over 10-man Wrexham. Wrexham had pushed Chelsea all the way and twice led, but George Dobson’s 93rd minute red card proved costly, as the Blues eventually got themselves over the line. The Championship […]
Atlas receive Chivas during Matchday 10 of the Liga MX Liga MX Clausura 2026 season. Below is all the essential information ahead of this matchup, including kickoff times and complete broadcast coverage for TV and streaming options available in the United States.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Atlas vs Chivas on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
Atlas vs Chivas
WHAT
Liga MX
WHEN
8:05 PM ET / 5:05 PM PT • Satuday, March 7, 2026
WHERE
DirecTV Stream, Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video, CBS Sports Golazo Network, Univision, TUDN and ViX
One of Mexican soccer’s fiercest rivalries returns this weekend in Liga MX as Chivas Guadalajara and Atlas renew the heated Derby Tapatio with both sides chasing crucial points. Chivasopened the campaign with six straight wins but have stumbled with back-to-back losses to Cruz Azul and Toluca.
These results increase the urgency to rebound and stay near the top of the table. Atlasarrive with momentum after a key victory over Club Tijuana lifted them to 16 points, setting the stage for another high-stakes showdown between Guadalajara rivals determined to strengthen their place in the standings.
More details about watching the game on DirecTV Stream
With DirecTV Stream, you can watch Atlas vs Chivas and tons more Liga MX games. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, Apple TV, Fire Stick as well as Google TV, Samsung and Peloton.
DirecTV Stream offers a free trial, and often shares with you a variety of different packages to choose from, so you can pick what suits you the best. That also includes packages filled with sports other than soccer including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL and more.
DirecTV Stream has 140+ channels of live TV and unlimited DVR. That includes all of the most important soccer-related channels such as NBC, FOX, ESPN, TNT, CBS as well as more niche soccer channels including FOX Deportes, Telemundo, Univision, TUDN and GolTV.
If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full DirecTV Stream soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.
To find out when soccer games are on, download the free Soccer TV Schedules App which includes listings of all of the live soccer matches available in the United States (available on Apple iOS devices and Android devices).
Kenan Yildiz insists he is happy to play anywhere for Juventus, while Khephren Thuram explained the special Luciano Spalletti celebration. ‘We’ve got to believe in ourselves.’
The Bianconeri had been showing some good performances and spirit to fight back from difficult situations, but hadn’t celebrated a Serie A victory since February 1.
They ended a run of two points from four rounds, along with Champions League and Coppa Italia elimination, by sweeping Pisa aside 4-0 in Turin.
It took a while to break the newly-promoted strugglers down, then the floodgates opened with Andrea Cambiaso, Thuram, Kenan Yildiz and Jeremie Boga on target.
Juventus back on track in Serie A
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus in action during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
“I am happy for the victory, as we did well in the first half too, but much better in the second half. I believe we had some very good performances in recent games, we didn’t manage to win them, but are on the right track,” Yildiz told Sky Sport Italia.
Yildiz had not found himself on the scoresheet since January 25, so this was a significant breakthrough for the Turkish talent, along with his assist for Cambiaso’s header.
The breakthrough seemed to be when Jonathan David was substituted by Boga, moving Yildiz to a False 9 role.
“I am here to help the team, it doesn’t matter where, if the coach tells me to play centre-forward or on the left, that’s fine. I had some knocks today, including on my head, it hurt a bit, but I’m fine,” smiled Yildiz.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Khephren Thuram of Juventus celebrates his goal with his team-mates and Luciano Spalletti Head coach of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
Today was coach Spalletti’s birthday, and after the Thuram goal, the players ran over to hug the tactician on the touchline.
“I am not exactly a hitman, but it is good to score goals and it was a little gift for the coach to celebrate his birthday,” Thuram told Sky Sport Italia.
It seems as if the race for a top four finish will go down to the wire, as Como won today away to Cagliari to stay in fifth place.
“We believe, because we’ve got the team that can do it, so we must have belief. That’s where it all starts, we want to get into the Champions League and we’ve got to believe in ourselves.”
Juventus put in a competent second half performance to beat Pisa 4-0 this evening, with goals from Andrea Cambiaso, Khephren Thuram, Kenan Yildiz and Jeremie Boga sealing the win.
Football Italia’s Man of the Match was Yildiz, however, for his electric performance, assist for Cambiaso’s opener and scoring the Bianconeri’s third goal.
Best Juventus player: Kenan Yildiz – Once again very good tonight and proving truly talismanic in Juventus’ attack. Led the charge more than once, picking up a goal and an assist on the way to victory.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus scores his team’s third goal during the Serie A match on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
Lowest Juventus rating: Jonathan David – Taken off at half-time after a poor half of football, the Canadian is still yet to hit his best levels at Juventus.
Coach: Luciano Spalletti 7.5 – On his birthday, the coach picks up a confident victory and will be happy with the way his team reacted to a difficult first half. Bringing on Boga for David helped significantly as the coach unwraps three points to celebrate.
Best Pisa player: Stefano Moreo – To give credit to the Pisa forward, he gave it his best shot. Fashioned a couple of good chances and could have scored on another day. Was strong in the air, putting some of his teammates to shame.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Kenan Yildiz in action during the Serie A match at Allianz Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
Lowest Pisa rating: Francesco Coppola – Was poor today, beaten far too often by Juventus’ front line and completely ineffective in the build-up.
Coach: Oscar Hiljemark 5.5 – Was a game of two halves for the coach who is still fairly new to the club. He will be proud of his team’s display in the first half but perhaps let down by the second.
Juventus took a while to break Pisa down, but eventually ran out 4-0 winners with Andrea Cambiaso, Khephren Thuram, Kenan Yildiz and Jeremie Boga goals to end their negative streak.
The Bianconeri were fresh off another determined comeback from 3-1 down to hold Roma 3-3, but had just two points from the last four Serie A rounds, along with Champions League and Coppa Italia exits. Manuel Locatelli returned from suspension, but Dusan Vlahovic, Emil Holm and Arek Milik were still out of action on Luciano Spalletti’s 67th birthday.
Pisa had one point from Oscar Hiljemark’s four games in charge, missing Simone Scuffet, Daniel Denoon, Isak Vural and Lorran, with Arturo Calabresi back in the starting XI.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Rafiu Durosinmi of Pisa Sporting Club in action during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
It was Pisa who had a big chance after four minutes, when Stefano Moreo’s glancing header at the near post on an Angori cross forced a tricky save out of Mattia Perin.
Khephren Thuram fired over and Francisco Conceicao tested goalkeeper Nicolas with a low drive, while Caracciolo threw himself in the path of a Jonathan David effort.
David also couldn’t keep a header down on Andrea Cambiaso’s assist, so the striker was substituted at half-time after a disappointing performance.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Francisco Conceicao of Juventus in action during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
Jeremie Boga came on instead and made an immediate impact, brought down by Mehdi Leris for a yellow card within 120 seconds.
Juventus finally took the lead when Kenan Yildiz was sent down the right by Conceicao and stood up the cross for Cambiaso’s free header at the back post. It was a totally empty net, as Nicolas had been drawn to the near post and was not expecting the cross.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Andrea Cambiaso of Juventus celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
They doubled their lead when Weston McKennie won it back on the edge of the area, Locatelli’s angled drive bounced off the far post, allowing Thuram to turn in the rebound from 12 yards. The players rushed over to celebrate with Spalletti on his birthday.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Khephren Thuram of Juventus celebrates after scoring the his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
Boga fired over from a tricky angle on the Yildiz assist, then hit the side-netting after Conceicao harassed Nicolas into an error.
Yildiz got the third when he gathered from Conceicao on the edge of the area, committed Coppola with a shimmy, and blasted into the far bottom corner. It was his first Serie A goal since mid-January.
Cambiaso’s curler flashed just wide of the far top corner from the edge of the box. With the last kick of the game, Locatelli’s inspired slide-rule pass sent Boga through without breaking his stride to dribble around Nicolas and deposit into an empty net from a tricky angle.
Juventus midfielder Khephren Thuram scored the club’s second goal in their match against Pisa in Serie A this evening, as the Bianconeri look to stroll to a comfortable victory to keep their top four hopes very much alive.
The French midfielder scored Juventus’ second in the second half, not long after Andrea Cambiaso’s opener.
Celebrating his goal, the Frenchman ran over to head coach Luciano Spalletti, who celebrates his 66th birthday today.
The rest of the team followed Thuram in involving the coach with the celebrations.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Andrea Cambiaso of Juventus celebrates his goal with his team-mates during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
Video: Thuram celebrates Juventus goal with Spalletti
Nico Gonzalez marked another impressive display in Spain with a match-winning brace for Atletico Madrid against Real Sociedad on Saturday, further underlining his growing importance to Diego Simeone’s side, and edging Juventus closer to triggering a crucial financial windfall.
The Argentine winger came off the bench in the 54th minute with Atletico trailing 2-1, and produced a decisive impact, netting twice to seal a dramatic 3-2 victory in LaLiga’s 27th matchday.
It was exactly the kind of performance that is making his permanent move to the Spanish capital look increasingly inevitable, as noted by CalcioMercato.
MONTEVIDEO, URUGUAY – MARCH 21: Nico Gonzalez of Argentina reacts after being sent off during the South of American FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Uruguay and Argentina at Centenario Stadium on March 21, 2025 in Montevideo, Uruguay. (Photo by Ernesto Ryan/Getty Images)
Nico Gonzalez edges closer to permanent Juventus departure
The details of his transfer structure make for interesting reading from a Juventus perspective. Nico Gonzalez joined Atletico on an initial loan of €1 million, rising by a further million subject to certain sporting objectives, with a purchase option of €32 million that converts into an obligation under specific conditions.
The key trigger is appearance-based: Atletico must sign him permanently if he reaches 60% of Liga matches played, featuring for at least 45 minutes per game, equivalent to 21 qualifying appearances across the season.
Saturday’s outing counts as his 13th qualifying appearance in the league, with 18 total Liga appearances to his name so far this season, and 26 across all competitions.
With eleven games left this season, he requires eight more qualifying matches to trigger the obligation, a target that looks very much within reach given his increasing involvement under Simeone.
For Juventus, the €32 million fee would represent a welcome injection of cash ahead of what promises to be a busy and expensive summer transfer window.
Newcastle United have been warned not to spend big money on the potential transfer of Chelsea misfit Nicolas Jackson this summer.
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The Senegal international is currently on loan at Bayern Munich and hasn’t made a particularly positive impact there, having also struggled to perform consistently at Stamford Bridge.
Of course, the transfer market never sleeps, so Newcastle will, like many other clubs, surely already be looking at summer targets.
Jackson may well be one of them as Eddie Howe could probably do with more depth up front, but Mick Brown has told Football Insider that he doesn’t think it would be a good move for NUFC.
As well as being expensive, Brown says he’s also heard that Jackson doesn’t have the best attitude, so it certainly seems like one to avoid.
“He isn’t consistent enough in front of goal which Newcastle are looking for at the moment,” Brown said.
“That’s the issue they’ve had this season, consistency, and Jackson isn’t the person who’s going to go to St James’ Park and be the answer to everybody’s problems.
“From what I hear, there are a few question marks about his attitude and they’ve been there since his time at Chelsea, I think it’s a big reason they let him go.
“What type of money are Chelsea going to be asked for as well? Last summer it was around £70-80million I believe, so around that again?
“So if Newcastle want to sign a new striker, I can’t see Jackson being the one they go for, because it’s going to be expensive and I don’t think he’ll solve their problems.”
Newcastle signed Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa last summer after selling Alexander Isak to Liverpool, but it looks like they’ll surely be in the market for further signings up front this summer.
Woltemade started well but has faded, while Wissa arrived injured and hasn’t made the desired impact, though they can surely aim higher than Jackson, who has now flopped at both Chelsea and Bayern.
Savinho scored a genuinely strange goal for Manchester City to equalise against Newcastle United in their FA Cup clash this evening.
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Harvey Barnes gave Newcastle a 1-0 lead earlier in the game, but good work by Jeremy Doku on the left-hand side set up Savinho to make it 1-1.
However, the Brazilian winger didn’t know too much about it, as he just stood waiting in the penalty area as the ball bounced in off him and over the line.
Watch below as Savinho somehow scored whilst standing completely still as though he didn’t quite expect Doku’s cross to get to him…
Savinho goal levels it up in Newcastle vs Manchester City clash
Savinho doesn't know much about it, but he's equalised for Manchester City at St. James' Park ?
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 7, 2026
City have fielded a heavily rotated line up tonight, with Pep Guardiola admitting before the game that all these changes are necessary due to the amount of games they’re playing.
Still, so far this second strong side is doing a decent job, with Guardiola still able to pick a lot of quality even if he’s resting the likes of Erling Haaland, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Rodri, Ruben Dias, Antoine Semenyo, and Marc Guehi.
Savinho is a very capable backup, and this is just the kind of moment he needed after struggling to really make that much of an impression since moving to the Etihad Stadium.
One thing City will really hope for now, however, is avoiding the score staying like this and going to extra time.
Arsenal also rotated a lot for their game earlier today but were able to get the job done in 90 minutes, and that could be important as these two face a busy schedule whilst competing for the Premier League title and preparing to play each other in the Carabao Cup final later this month.
Lifting 17 pieces of major silverware with his boyhood club and helping Manchester City to a maiden Champions League crown, Phil Foden has acquired quite the resume for a player who doesn’t turn 26 until May. However, now remarkably considered as a real dark horse to feature for England at this summer’s World Cup over […]
Verdict: Goal to be scored in both halves Best Odds: 19/20 Bookmaker: Luckster Desperate to get their European charge back on track, Espanyol will welcome Real Oviedo to Catalonia on Monday night. Espanyol Starting with the hosts, signing off 2025 in the midst of a sensational five-match La Liga winning run, Espanyol had rightfully received […]
Inter Miami defeated DC United 2-1 in Major League Soccer, with Lionel Messi contributing one of the goals.
This Saturday, Inter Miami secured their second consecutive victory of the 2026 MLS season with a 2-1 win over DC United in Baltimore. Rodrigo De Paul opened the scoring, while Lionel Messi extended the lead with his 899th career goal.
From the start, the roles of both teams were clear. Inter Miami quickly imposed their style and dominated possession, forcing their opponents to sit back and rely on counterattacks to try to create chances. However, the hosts struggled to do so and failed to neutralize the strengths of the Herons.
The opener came in the 17th minute, when German Berterame recovered the ball near the opponent’s box. The Mexican forward quickly passed to Telasco Segovia, who set up Rodrigo De Paul to comfortably control the ball and finish with a precise right-footed strike.
Not satisfied with just one, Inter Miami went for more 10 minutes later. Mateo Silvetti assisted Lionel Messi, who controlled the ball inside the box and delicately finished over goalkeeper Sean Johnson.
After halftime, the visitors seemed to relax, confident in their two-goal advantage. DC United took advantage, creating several chances until Tai Baribo capitalized on a rebound inside the box to cut the deficit. In the final minutes, the Herons faced tense moments but held on for an important win to climb the standings.
When can Messi score his 900th goal?
Having reached just one goal shy of 900 in his professional career, Lionel Messi will soon have the chance to hit that milestone. On Wednesday, Inter Miami are set to visit Nashville SC for the first leg of the Round of 16 in the Concacaf Champions Cup, while next Saturday they will face Charlotte FC in MLS play.
Barcelona face Athletic Club in La Liga, and Robert Lewandowski drew attention for wearing a mask covering part of his face.
Barcelona have a key La Liga 2025-26 match this Saturday against Athletic Club, as a victory would allow them to maintain their four-point lead over Real Madrid in the standings. Robert Lewandowski started the game on the bench, with a peculiar detail in his appearance.
The Polish forward is wearing a mask that covers part of his face as a precaution to prevent impacts in that area. This is due to a heavy blow he suffered to the head during last Saturday’s match against Villarreal, which caused a bone fracture in the inner part of his left eye socket.
The injury kept Lewandowski out of the second leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals against Atletico Madrid last Tuesday, where Barcelona won 3-0 but failed to advance to the final after losing 4-0 in the first leg in Madrid.
After a few days of recovery from that blow, the 37-year-old is now fit to return to the field, but he must do so wearing the mask to avoid any impacts that could worsen the injury. In fact, during training sessions with his teammates over the week, he had to follow the same precaution.
Interestingly, Barcelona already had a player this season who had to play with a protective mask. Eric Garcia, in November 2025, suffered a facial blow that caused a nasal fracture during a UEFA Champions League match against Club Brugge, forcing him to wear protection for several games.
Lewandowski has worn a mask before
During his years with Bayern Munich, Robert Lewandowski faced a similar situation. In the 2014-15 season, a fracture of the nose and jaw forced the forward to wear a mask to return to official action sooner than expected. At that time, he played five matches with the mask and scored two goals.
“I remember perfectly when I had to wear a mask, and it wasn’t pleasant,” Lewandowski said years later, according to Mundo Deportivo. “It was a tough challenge for me. I don’t remember playing well with the mask.”
He explained why playing with the mask made it difficult to perform on the field: “It’s hard, especially for forwards who play around the box. I remember having trouble reacting and seeing the ball and the opponents clearly.”
Robert Lewandowski warms up prior to the La Liga game between Athletic Club and Barcelona.
Alexis Saelemaekers has offered a warm and revealing insight into life under Massimiliano Allegri ahead of Sunday’s Milan derby, describing his manager as “special” and “unique”, and letting slip the nickname the coach has given him in recognition of his relentless work rate.
Speaking to DAZN, via MilanNews, the Belgian winger explained that Allegri calls him “scheggia”, literally translating to splinter or shrapnel but figuratively a nod to the explosive pace he brings every time he takes to the pitch.
“He calls me ‘scheggia’ because I always give one hundred percent,” Saelemaekers said.
“He is special to me, he is unique. The way he sees football, his attitude, he is one of the best I have had as a human being. The way he treats us, the way he jokes, the way he is serious when he needs to be. He manages that balance perfectly.”
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 01: Massimiliano Allegri Head Coach of AC Milan looks on prior to the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AC Milan at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Saelemaekers looks forward to Milan derby against Inter
Saelemaekers also captured the unique atmosphere that descends on the Milan squad in derby week, a mixture of intense focus and barely contained anticipation.
“The Milan-Inter rivalry will always be there,” he said. “As soon as the derby week begins, you are always thinking about it. Before a game like this, there is so much concentration that nobody speaks. What you eat, how much you sleep, it can all make a difference. You try to do everything at one hundred percent to arrive ready.”
With the title race finely poised and both clubs desperate for the points, Sunday’s clash at San Siro carries enormous weight. If Saelemaekers brings even a fraction of that relentless energy to the occasion, Milan will have a valuable weapon at their disposal.
Raffaele Palladino hails Atalanta for ‘never giving up’ after a fightback from 2-0 down to hold Udinese 2-2. ‘Now we are looking forward to the Champions League’ and Bayern Munich.
La Dea have been stretched a little thin in recent weeks, as they were coming off the Coppa Italia semi-final 2-2 draw with Lazio on Wednesday, and are preparing for next week’s European Round of 16 clash.
“I want to publicly thank my players for all they are giving during this packed season,” Palladino told DAZN.
“We could’ve crumbled when going 2-0 down, instead these lads showed the reaction of a great team, with energy and determination, refusing to give in.”
Palladino changed Atalanta after difficult start
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 07: Udinese Calcio head coach Kosta Runjaic and Atalanta BC coach Raffaele Palladino look on during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Udinese Calcio at New Balance Arena on March 07, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
When trailing to the goals from Thomas Kristensen and Keinan Davis against the run of play, the coach switched Atalanta to a 4-4-2 formation, using Gianluca Scamacca and Nikola Krstovic together.
It paid off, as Scamacca scored two headers in five minutes to equalise, although they also left themselves unbalanced and at risk of conceding another in stoppages.
“When you prepare a match, you always need to have two or three solutions in mind. Playing against a 3-5-2, you have different ways of opening them up,” explained Palladino.
There was tension at the final whistle when the referee ended the match without letting Atalanta take a corner, so Palladino stormed over to the fourth official to check the timer.
“I never protest with referees, I try to help them, so I went to the locker room afterwards and apologised to the referee and assistants for my tone. I also gave an explanation for my reaction, which was that Udinese had started wasting time since they first took the lead.
“We’ve got to improve this in Italy, we can’t let them get away with taking 40 seconds to take a throw-in. I expected a little more time at the end. The fans and the players want to see more football on the pitch.”
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 07: Keinan Davis of Udinese Calcio competes for the ball with Odilon Kossounou of Atalanta BC during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Udinese Calcio at New Balance Arena on March 07, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Atalanta are the only side still competing in Serie A, the Coppa Italia semi-finals and the Champions League Round of 16, where they will host Bayern Munich in the first leg on Tuesday evening.
“I liked the spirit above all else. We are fighting in three competitions, and even if we are playing lots of games, we won’t complain,” continued Palladino.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 07: Atalanta BC coach Raffaele Palladino looks on during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Udinese Calcio at New Balance Arena on March 07, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“There are some who do complain, but my team enjoys playing football, and we are looking forward to the Champions League.
“It’s not easy to go two goals down after a good performance to the only shots on target, but these lads never give in, they always want to prove themselves. We must face everyone with this attitude, with nothing to lose, starting in the Champions League next week.”
Fabio Capello has offered a ringing endorsement of both head coaches ahead of Sunday’s Milan derby, backing Cristian Chivu and Massimiliano Allegri as two of the finest coaching minds currently operating in Italian football.
Speaking on Milan Vibes, via MilanNews24, the former Roma, Milan and Real Madrid coach drew on his own experience as a young coach to defend Chivu against any criticism of his relative inexperience.
“Chivu was placed there without much experience, but neither did I have much, with only five matches as a coach at the time,” Capello said.
“I know Christian well, I signed him as a player at Roma. He is an intelligent, sharp and successful person. He came in quietly and made the squad understand that they were still strong and capable of winning.”
Fabio Capello (Photo by Jurij Kodrun/Getty Images)
Capello: ‘Allegri is still one of the best around’
Capello was also keen to credit the Inter hierarchy for the boldness of the appointment. “Betting on a young coach like Chivu means that whoever chose him knew what they were doing, that is a credit to the president and the directors,” he said, adding with a wry smile that critics once dismissed him as a yes-man early in his own managerial career.
On Allegri, Capello was equally effusive, pushing back firmly against any suggestion that the Milan coach’s best days are behind him.
“What Allegri is doing demonstrates that he is still one of the best around, an excellent coach, not a spent force,” he said. “He understands the material he has at his disposal. He knows the value of his players, which many young coaches simply cannot do, they cannot bring out the best in the human material available to them and just copy others.”
Capello also dismissed the tired debate between so-called ‘results men’ and ‘football philosophers’ with characteristic bluntness. “The story of pragmatists versus purists simply does not exist,” he said.
Luciano Spalletti outlined what he wants from Juventus on his birthday as they host Pisa in Serie A and explains why ‘the fans are our best barometer’ of form more than statistics.
It kicks off at the Allianz Juventus Stadium in Turin at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
Today is coach Spalletti’s 67th birthday, so he is hoping for a gift not only on the field, but also potentially off it with a contract extension beyond June 30.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Juventus FC head coach Luciano Spalletti looks on during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“I’ve had birthdays all over the world and with very different people, because I am at my age now very experienced with having birthdays.
“I am happy to spend this one here with my players, and seeing as they didn’t give me a present, I’d love to have a picture of them singing at the final whistle with our fans, celebrating,” Spalletti told Sky Sport Italia.
Juventus are fighters under Spalletti
The Bianconeri have been impressing the supporters with their sheer determination lately, fighting back repeatedly from almost impossible situations, but that hasn’t necessarily translated to results.
They are out of the Champions League and Coppa Italia, scraping only two points from the last four Serie A matches, including the epic comeback from 3-1 down to hold Roma 3-3.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Federico Gatti of Juventus FC celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
“When you look at the statistics, it’s about numbers, but not how those numbers arrived. The fact the fans are so close to us at this moment, despite not bringing home the results, that means we sent signals. They are our best barometer.
“We’ve got to win every game first within ourselves, and then on the field. This match tests you, and seeing as I am dealing with intelligent lads, I know they feel that, because these are the games that seem easy and really aren’t. This is not about the future, it’s about the details of every match, your mentality, self-discipline moment by moment, not looking too far into the future.”
Federico Gatti scored the last-gasp equaliser against Roma and is rewarded with a place in defence today, while Manuel Locatelli returns from suspension, but Michele Di Gregorio is again dropped in favour of Mattia Perin.
“With Perin, I didn’t want to keep chopping and changing, so I told them that we’d give Di Gregorio time off and a chance for Perin to have a run of games. We’ll see from the next game what happens.”
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 21: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD7 match between Juventus and SL Benfica at Juventus Stadium on January 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Vincenzo Italiano has delivered a glowing assessment of January arrival Joao Mario ahead of Bologna’s Serie A clash with Verona, with the Juventus loanee continuing to impress since his move to the Emilia-Romagna club.
The Portuguese midfielder, who joined on loan from Juventus in the winter window, has settled quickly into Italiano’s system.
“He is recovering well from the knock he picked up against Pisa,” the Bologna head coach confirmed, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.
“He is loosening up more and more, he is smiling, and he has made himself available to play on the left as well, which was not straightforward for him. He has played two great matches and I am very happy.”
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Bologna FC 1909 head coach Vincenzo Italiano looks on during the Serie A match between Torino FC and Bologna FC 1909 at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on February 15, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Bologna coach Italiano positive ahead of Verona test
Italiano was in a broadly positive mood at his pre-match press conference, pleased with the direction his squad is heading after a period in which their league position had given cause for concern.
Riccardo Orsolini was another player singled out for encouragement, despite a recent dip in form.
“He needs to rediscover his sharpness, but I am convinced that at the first good opportunity he will find his rhythm again,” Italiano said. “He is already in double figures this season despite the difficult spell, and in training today he was scoring some great goals.”
On the subject of the upcoming Europa League quarter-final against Roma, Italiano was emphatic that full focus remains on Verona. “We are thinking only about tomorrow,” he said. “We have put right a league position that we were not happy with, and we want to keep collecting points. Roma can wait until Monday.”
Dallinga returned to training on the eve of the match after managing a tendon issue, while Lykogiannis also appears to have shaken off his own tendon complaint.
Dominguez is another option in reserve, with Italiano praising the midfielder’s impact whenever called upon from the bench.
Manchester United are reportedly preparing to try offering €40m to try to convince Barcelona to sell talented young left-back Alejandro Balde.
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The 22-year-old has impressed a great deal at Barca in recent times, earning the reputation for being one of the best young full-backs in Europe.
While Barcelona would surely ideally keep Balde, they face interest from Man Utd, according to Fichajes, and there’s a recognition that they might need to accept an offer in the region of €40m to ease their financial issues.
It will be interesting to see if this develops into something concrete, but it would be quite the coup if the Red Devils could land themselves a top talent like this for a pretty reasonable price.
Alejandro Balde looks the part for Manchester United
We will surely see United making more changes to their squad this summer, with Balde looking like he could be a useful addition to give the club a long-term successor to the ageing and injury-prone Luke Shaw.
MUFC did sign Patrick Dorgu last January but he’s ended up playing further forward, so it could make sense to bring in Balde as the new first-choice left-back.
Given his age, rumoured asking price, and all-round profile, it’s hard to see this as anything other than an excellent potential signing for United.
The only worry is recent performance, with his form actually going down slightly this season with a WhoScored rating of just 6.70, but fans can probably be fairly confident of that just being a temporary blip.
United fans will surely be hoping something serious can develop here, but it probably won’t become clear for a little while yet if it’s a particularly realistic deal.
Fichajes can be quite speculative, so even if there’s interest from United, and it would undoubtedly be a fine signing, it doesn’t mean they’ll actually be able to do it.
Clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal could reportedly be in luck as Real Madrid are reportedly already prepared to consider selling Dean Huijsen.
The talented young centre-back joined Real Madrid from Bournemouth last summer after some hugely impressive form in the Premier League.
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Huijsen hasn’t been entirely convincing since the big move to the Bernabeu, however, and Fichajes report that he could now be available for just £54m.
The Spanish outlet does not name any specific clubs looking into signing Huijsen, but he was very strongly linked with all three of Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea less than a year ago.
Dean Huijsen will surely still be on the radar of Premier League clubs
As reported by Fabrizio Romano last summer, Huijsen was being eyed up by all three of Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea, as per his post on X below…
?? Dean Huijsen scores, gets his 4th MOTM Award… with his future set to be decided soon, probably this month.
Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool are all involved in the race to sign Spanish CB with £50m release clause.
Huijsen’s fine form during his time at Bournemouth surely means those clubs would still be keen if there really were a genuine possibility of him coming back to England already.
Fichajes also state that the Spain international could cost just £4m more than Real paid for him in the summer, as reported by BBC Sport at the time.
That’s not a bad price to be paying for a talented young player who is perhaps just going through a bit of a wobbly spell due to being at a new club going through changes of managers and other issues this season.
Dean Huijsen could surely still be an important signing for Liverpool
Arsenal already have a lot of quality and depth in defence, so it probably wouldn’t make much sense for them to target Huijsen as a priority.
Liverpool, however, look in urgent need of strengthening in that department after conceding a lot of goals this season, and with Ibrahima Konate coming towards the end of his contract.
We’d still rate this as a superb signing for LFC – a strong fit for their current needs, and reportedly available for a very generous price…
Atletico Madrid star Antoine Griezmann has been the subject of rumors about a possible move to Orlando City in Major League Soccer.
After weeks of speculation, it has been confirmed that Antoine Griezmann will remain at Atletico Madrid this season. However, the possibility of a move to Major League Soccer to play for Orlando City remains on the table.
The Florida club’s interest was concrete, and reportedly there were negotiations to make the deal happen before the MLS transfer window closed on March 26. However, that would have meant leaving Atletico Madrid in the middle of the 2025-26 season, just ahead of the Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad and with the UEFA Champions League in full swing.
Given this context, Los Colchoneros decided to keep the French forward, a decision confirmed by the sporting director. “He has a contract, he’s going to stay with us. He has this season and two more,” Mateu Alemany said on Saturday according to Marca. “He’s going to be with us, he’s going to continue, and nothing else.”
Alemany also highlighted Griezmann’s contribution to the team this season, with 12 goals and 2 assists in 38 matches across all competitions. “Antoine is in extraordinary form, he’s playing some outstanding matches. Fans will applaud him as always. He’s delivering spectacular performances, and that’s the most important thing,” said the sporting director.
Atletico Madrid sporting director Mateu Alemany.
Orlando City remain a possibility for Griezmann
Even though Mateu Alemany’s words put an end to speculation about a mid-season exit from Atletico Madrid, the possibility of Antoine Griezmann moving to MLS in the near future remains high.
“Orlando City remain in talks over FREE transfer in July for Griezmann, focus on the summer window now,” reported Fabrizio Romano on his official X account shortly after Alemany’s statements.
The conditions of a potential MLS move are not minor in this case. Griezmann is under contract with Atletico Madrid until June 30, 2027, meaning any early exit would require approval from the Spanish club. In that scenario, they could insist on a transfer fee in exchange for terminating the contract. Orlando City’s negotiations, as well as the player’s own intentions, could be key to securing a free transfer.
Griezmann could leave with a trophy from Atletico Madrid
Over the last decade, Antoine Griezmann has developed a special bond with Atletico Madrid. He joined the club from Real Sociedad in 2014 and, aside from a brief spell with Barcelona between 2019 and 2022, has remained a key player for the team.
The French forward was not part of the two La Liga titles Atletico Madrid won under coach Diego Simeone: he arrived just after the 2014 trophy and was at Barcelona when the club won the next one in 2021. However, he did contribute to the Spanish Super Cup 2014, UEFA Europa League 2018, and UEFA Super Cup 2018 victories.
This season, Atletico Madrid are close to winning another trophy, as they will play the Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad. They also remain in contention in the UEFA Champions League, where they will face Tottenham in the round of 16. That means Griezmann has two opportunities to win another title with the club before potentially making his move to MLS.
Inter Miami visit DC United in Major League Soccer, and all eyes are on Lionel Messi.
This Saturday marks the start of Matchday 3 of the Major League Soccer season, with Inter Miami looking for another win to continue climbing the Eastern Conference standings. Their opponent will be DC United, who will host the match at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, where a full crowd is expected due to the excitement surrounding Lionel Messi.
The Argentine forward played in the first two games of the season: a loss to Los Angeles FC in the opener and a victory last Sunday against Orlando City SC, where he scored a brace. Now Inter Miami have the chance to secure another win and reinforce their status as favorites to repeat as 2025 champions.
DC United have had an identical start to the season. They opened at home with a 1-0 win over Philadelphia Union, but could not repeat that performance in their second match, falling by the same scoreline to Austin FC last Sunday. They now face the challenge of containing one of the most talented teams in MLS.
Confirmed lineup for Inter Miami
The performance shown by Inter Miami in their second game of the season was noticeably better than in their opener against Los Angeles FC. For that reason, head coach Javier Mascherano is opting to stick with most of the starting lineup.
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano.
Inter Miami’s confirmed XI against DC United is: Dayne St. Clair; Facundo Mura, Maximiliano Falcon, Micael Silva, Noah Allen; Mateo Silvetti, Rodrigo De Paul, Yannick Bright, Telasco Segovia; Lionel Messi, German Berterame.
With that in mind, DC United’s confirmed lineup to face Inter Miami is: Sean Johnson; Silvan Hefti, Lucas Bartlett, Kye Rowles, Keisuke Kurokawa; Joao Peglow, Brandon Servania, Matti Peltola, Jackson Hopkins; Gabriel Pirani, Tai Baribo.
DC United host Inter Miami CF in a 2026 Major League Soccer regular-season clash. Discover the full information about this matchup, including the date, venue, and broadcast options to watch the action live across the United States.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch DC United vs Inter Miami on US television and via legal streaming:
Momentum will be on the line when Inter Miami and DC United meet after nearly identical starts to the MLSseason. DC United opened with a 1-0 win over Philadelphia Union before falling by the same score to Austin FC.
Meanwhile, Inter Miami rebounded from an opening loss to Los Angeles FC by defeating Orlando City SC 4-2 in the Florida Derby behind a standout performance from Lionel Messi. With both clubs looking to build early-season momentum, this matchup promises intensity —make sure you don’t miss it.
Details on how to watch
Apple TV is the home for Major League Soccer – where you can watch DC United vs Inter Miami and every MLS game. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, Apple TV, smartphone, tablet, Roku, and other smart streaming devices.
Apple TV will stream every MLS game – including MLS Cup Playoffs and Leagues Cup – with no blackouts.
Apple TV is available via the Apple TV app on all Apple iOS devices, Mac, PC, Amazon Fire TV and Fire Stick, Android TV, Google TV, LG smart TVs, Panasonic smart TVs, Playstation 4 & 5, Roku streaming devices and smart TVs, Samsung smart TVs, Sony smart TVs, Vizio smart TVs, and Xbox One, One S, Series X and Series S. In addition, you can AirPlay or cast from your phone or computer to any compatible screen.
If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.
Gianluca Scamacca scored two headers in five minutes for Atalanta to claw back a point against Udinese, after Thomas Kristensen and Keinan Davis efforts.
La Dea were stretched thin by being the only team still in three tournaments, as they held Lazio 2-2 in the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final on Wednesday, and were preparing for the Champions League Round of 16 with Bayern Munich. Their Serie A form suffered with a 2-1 loss at Sassuolo, but they remained in the race for the top four. Ederson and Giorgio Scalvini were struggling, with Charles De Ketelaere still out, but Giacomo Raspadori returned to the bench. Udinese ended their run of three straight defeats by crushing Fiorentina 3-0, but missed Oumar Solet, Nicolò Bertola and Alessandro Zanoli, so Branimir Mlacic got his first Serie A start just days before his 18th birthday.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 07: Udinese Calcio head coach Kosta Runjaic and Atalanta BC coach Raffaele Palladino look on during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Udinese Calcio at New Balance Arena on March 07, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Kingsley Ehizibue’s strike flashed just wide, as did the Gianluca Scamacca strike, while Marco Carnesecchi was alert on the looping Nicolò Zaniolo cross-shot that was going into the far top corner.
There were appeals for a potential Mlacic handling offence, but the Kamaldeen Sulemana cross hit his elbow, with the arm behind his back.
Lorenzo Bernasconi gave away an avoidable corner and it proved costly, because Thomas Kristensen shrugged off Odilon Kossounou for a glancing header from six yards on Zaniolo’s set play, giving Udinese the lead against the run of play.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 07: Thomas Kristensen of Udinese Calcio celebrates after scoring their team’s first goalduring the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Udinese Calcio at New Balance Arena on March 07, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Scamacca was unlucky not to equalise at the dawn of the second half, his low drive from the edge of the box thumping the base of the upright.
Instead, Udinese doubled their lead in chaotic fashion. Sead Kolasinac acrobatically intercepted a Zaniolo low cross from the left inside the six-yard box, and charged down the Oier Zarraga effort, but could do nothing as Davis bent the finish around him and Carnesecchi into the far bottom corner.
Atalanta switched to 4-4-2 and Sulemana’s diving header was off target from a Bernasconi cross, while Nikola Krstovic drilled wide on a Davide Zappacosta assist.
The siege eventually paid off when Nicola Zalewski swung a cross from the left for a Scamacca free header from six yards.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 07: Keinan Davis of Udinese Calcio competes for the ball with Odilon Kossounou of Atalanta BC during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Udinese Calcio at New Balance Arena on March 07, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Udinese crumbled, as Maduka Okoye’s poor pass out from the back under pressure was intercepted, he made the save on Lazar Samardzic, but could do nothing when Scamacca nodded in the rebound to complete the comeback in just five minutes.
La Dea wanted all three points, Okoye getting down to fingertip a Krstovic daisy-cutter round the post for a corner.
Udinese also threatened, as Arthur Atta’s long-range thunderbolt grazed the crossbar, and Carnesecchi rushed out to smother at the feet of Adam Buksa.
Deep into stoppages, Jurgen Ekkelenkamp wasted a golden opportunity with a finish charged down from 13 yards.
There was controversy, as Atalanta had a corner with the last kick of the game, but the referee blew for full time before they could take it. Raffaele Palladino was furious and went over to check the timer held by the fourth official.
Atalanta 2-2 Udinese
Kristensen 39 (U), Davis 55 (U), Scamacca 75, 79 (A)
The Bianconeri performances have impressed the fans, above all the refusal to give in when fighting back from disastrous situations, but the results are starting to worry them too.
Out of the Champions League and Coppa Italia, they came back from 3-1 down to grab a last-gasp 3-3 draw against Roma last week.
It means in Serie A they managed only two points in the last four rounds, and with Como winning earlier today, they risk falling well behind in the fight for Champions League qualification.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Federico Gatti of Juventus celebrates scoring their third goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Today is Luciano Spalletti’s 67th birthday, so he is hoping for a win as a gift.
Dusan Vlahovic returned to training over the last few days after three months out, but is not available today, along with Emil Holm and Arek Milik.
Manuel Locatelli returns from suspension to bolster the midfield, while Federico Gatti starts after his last-gasp equaliser with Roma.
David leads the attack with support from Kenan Yildiz, Francisco Conceicao and unexpected goal hero McKennie, the USMNT star fresh from signing a new contract.
It was reported Michele Di Gregorio would return in goal after he was dropped for a couple of matches due to some remarkable howlers, but instead Mattia Perin keeps the gloves.
Pisa are rock bottom of the Serie A table and seemingly doomed to relegation along with Hellas Verona.
PISA, ITALY – MARCH 2: Gabriele Piccinini of Pisa Sporting Club in action during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and Bologna FC 1909 at Arena Garibaldi on March 2, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
New coach Oscar Hiljemark has done little to turn the tide, as after his debut draw with Verona, there were three consecutive defeats to Milan, Fiorentina and Bologna.
The visitors are still without Simone Scuffet, Daniel Denoon, Isak Vural and Lorran, with Arturo Calabresi returning to the starting XI.
Former Juve players Juan Cuadrado and Samuel Iling-Junior are in the squad.
Stefano Moreo and January signing Rafiu Durosinmi lead the attack.
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 06: Oscar Hiljemark, Head Coach of Pisa Sporting Club looks on prior to the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and Pisa SC at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 06, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Lazio have confirmed that goalkeeper Ivan Provedel will undergo surgery on his shoulder in the coming days, with Sky Sport Italia reporting the injury is likely to bring his season to a premature end, a significant blow for a club already navigating a turbulent campaign.
The club’s official statement revealed that persistent shoulder pain, linked to a previous match injury, prompted further investigation.
An MRI scan carried out at the Villa Mafalda clinic identified a lesion of the glenohumeral ligament alongside involvement of the glenoid labrum. Provedel will undergo arthroscopic stabilisation surgery in the coming days.
Ivan Provedel Lazio do not worry
Provedel surgery a major blow for Lazio in end-of-season run-in
The timing could hardly be worse for Maurizio Sarri, whose side still have a Coppa Italia semi-final second leg against Atalanta to navigate, as well as a demanding run of Serie A fixtures in the closing weeks of the season.
What makes the situation particularly concerning is the state of Lazio’s goalkeeping options.
The club sold Christos Mandas to Bournemouth on loan with an obligation to buy in January, leaving them with limited cover behind Provedel.
His likely replacement is 21-year-old Edoardo Motta, signed from Reggiana for €1.2 million earlier this year, a promising youngster, but one who arrives with considerably more development ahead of him than behind him.
The only other option available is 24-year-old Alessio Furlanetto, who has come through Lazio’s own academy but is yet to make a single first-team appearance for the club.
It is a precarious situation, and one that Lazio’s hierarchy will be acutely aware of as they attempt to salvage something meaningful from what has already been a deeply frustrating season.
ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 07: Ivan Provedel of Lazio looks on as Jens Odgaard of Bologna celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Bologna FC 1909 at Stadio Olimpico on December 07, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Ryan Gravenberch has put pen to paper on a new long-term contract with Liverpool. While the Reds did not confirm the length of Gravenberch’s new deal, reports suggest he has signed a new six-year deal through to the end of the 2031-32 season. The Dutchman joined from Bayern Munich in September 2023 and has since […]
Eberechi Eze insisted that Arsenal are “doing everything we can to win all the silverware on offer” after they progressed into the quarter-finals of the FA Cup. The Gunners defeated Mansfield Town 2-1, with Eze bagging the winner after Noni Madueke opened the scoring in the first half. Since January 2025, no player has scored […]
It took extra time, but Chelsea secured its spot in the FA Cup quarter-finals, narrowly defeating Wrexham 4‑2 at the Racecourse Ground.
Cup competitions are built on nights like this. The lights are brighter, the crowd louder, and belief grows with every minute the underdog stays alive. At the Racecourse Ground, the atmosphere crackled with that familiar FA Cup magic as Wrexham pushed one of England’s giants, Chelsea, to the brink.
For long spells it felt as if another famous chapter might be written in the club’s modern fairytale, one fueled by passionate supporters, the presence of celebrity owners in the stands, and a team refusing to bow to superior opposition. Yet by the end of a dramatic evening filled with twists, controversy, and late heartbreak, the dream slipped agonizingly out of reach. What followed was a chaotic, emotional contest that ultimately decided who would move on to the quarter-final of the FA Cup.
From the opening whistle, the home side showed no intention of playing the role of respectful underdog. Wrexham stayed organized defensively but were ready to attack whenever an opportunity appeared. Despite early possession from Chelsea, the first major moment belonged to the host. A long ball from the back caught the visiting defense off guard, allowing Sam Smith to break free and slot a composed finish into the bottom corner. The stadium erupted as the underdog took the lead.
Even though the goal required a VAR check, the decision stood. The Racecourse Ground roared with belief, sensing that something special might be unfolding. Chelsea struggled to respond immediately, rattled by Wrexham’s energy and direct play. But eventually the Premier League side found a way back.
Dreamland! 🤩
Sam Smith slots home to put @Wrexham_AFC ahead against Chelsea! 👏
A swift attacking move ended with Alejandro Garnacho driving forward before a shot ricocheted off goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo for an unfortunate own goal, leveling the match before halftime. By the break, the contest stood at 1-1, setting the stage for a gripping second half.
A little bit of luck hands @ChelseaFC the equaliser against Wrexham.
The second half transformed the match into a true cup classic. Wrexham continued to press forward and were rewarded when Callum Doyle cleverly redirected a long-range effort into the net, giving the home side the lead once again and sending the stadium into delirium.
For a moment, the upset seemed within touching distance. Yet the Blues responded almost immediately. Defensive lapses allowed Josh Acheampong to fire a powerful shot into the roof of the net, leveling the score once more and keeping the visitors alive. The match was now a frantic back-and-forth battle.
Alejandro Garnacho of Chelsea runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Ollie Rathbone of Wrexham
As time ticked away, tension escalated. In stoppage time, Wrexham suffered a major setback when George Dobson was sent off following a VAR review for a studs-up challenge on Garnacho. The dismissal meant the host would have to face extra time with 10 men, drastically shifting the balance of the contest. Still, the home side refused to collapse.
An instant response ⚡️ ️ Josh Acheampong brings Chelsea back level immediately against Wrexham!
Despite the numerical disadvantage, the hosts defended bravely at the start of extra time, hoping to drag the match toward penalties. But eventually the pressure told. A well-worked Chelsea move ended with Alejandro Garnacho finishing from close range, a goal that briefly confused the crowd as the ball bounced out of the net before anyone realized it had crossed the line.
Timing the volley perfectly 👌
Alejandro Garnacho gives @ChelseaFC the lead for the first time on the night.
Chelsea finally had the lead. Even then, Phil Parkinson’s players refused to surrender. The home side pushed forward desperately and nearly found an equalizer dramatically. One moment seemed destined for FA Cup folklore when Brunt bundled the ball into the net, appearing to force the game toward penalties. However, the celebrations were cut short. The decision left the crowd furious and the home side stunned.
Chelsea then delivered the decisive blow. With Wrexham pushing forward, space opened for the visitors. Joao Pedro collected the ball outside the area and produced a superb finish into the corner, finally ending the contest.
The goal confirmed a 4-2 victory after extra time for Chelsea, sending the Premier League club into the FA Cup quarter-final. Despite the defeat, Wrexham left the field to a standing ovation from supporters and co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
Athletic Club receive FC Barcelona in a Matchday 27 clash during the 2025/26 La Liga campaign. Here’s all the essential information for this highly anticipated contest, including kickoff schedules and details on how to watch the broadcast live via TV or available streaming services.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Athletic Club vs Barcelona on US television and via legal streaming:
After Real Madrid’s 2–1 win over Celta de Vigo tightened the title race in La Liga, league leaders Barcelonaenter the weekend with just a one-point cushion and plenty of urgency as they prepare for a tough test against Athletic Club.
The Catalan side remains the favorite, but the Basque squad—currently battling in the middle of the table with hopes of securing a European spot—has built a reputation for frustrating top contenders and could shake up the standings with an upset.
More details on how to watch
With ESPN+, you can watch Athletic Club vs Barcelona and tons more soccer games. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, Apple, Android, and Amazon Fire devices, Roku, Samsung Smart TV, Chromecast, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Oculus Go.
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There’s also the daily ESPN FC show, 30 For 30 documentaries, exclusive access to studio programs and more.
If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full ESPN+ soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
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To find out when soccer games are on, download the free Soccer TV Schedules App which includes listings of all of the live soccer matches available in the United States (available on Apple iOS devices and Android devices).
Cesc Fabregas insists the 2-1 Como victory away to Cagliari was ‘the win I am most satisfied with this season’ due to their exhaustion after the Coppa Italia. ‘Jean Butez is ready for international duty.’
The Lariani were in Serie B only two seasons ago, yet now find themselves playing every three days in Serie A to challenge for a top four spot, and in the Coppa Italia semi-finals.
They held Inter to a 0-0 draw on Tuesday evening and today didn’t drop a single point, winning 2-1 in Sardinia with Martin Baturina and Lucas Da Cunha.
Fabregas proud of Como progress
CAGLIARI, ITALY – MARCH 07: Martin Baturina of Como scores his goal 0-1 with team mates during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Como 1907 at Stadio Sant’Elia on March 07, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
“I liked the way the lads reacted today, as this performance proves what the team is made of, they have great mentality that is growing game by game,” Fabregas told DAZN Italia.
“We were all exhausted today, there were so many matches in a row, we were so tired. That is why this is the win I am most satisfied with this season. It is genuinely a major step forward for the team.”
CAGLIARI, ITALY – MARCH 07: the coach of Como Cesc Fàbregas look on during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Como 1907 at Stadio Sant’Elia on March 07, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
It was far from a simple task, because Sebastiano Esposito’s diving header had temporarily drawn Cagliari level, and Como had to thank a Butez fingertip save on Michel Adopo.
“Como invested in young players and some of them, even if they didn’t cost very much, are world class,” insisted Fabregas.
“Since he arrived, Butez has worked like an animal. He always wants to learn more, and he knows everything depends on how much you want it. He is a leader not just for his qualities, but also in the locker room. I think he is ready to make the step up for international duty with France.”
This result puts Como temporarily in joint fourth place alongside Roma, who have a difficult trip to Genoa tomorrow evening and the distraction of the Europa League.
Are the minnows genuinely contenders for a Champions League spot?
“We are not there yet. We are on the right track, but there are many games still to go. I saw definite progress in the team today, it was one of the most difficult matches of the season, and the credit for that also goes to Fabio Pisacane for giving his identity to the Cagliari squad,” concluded Fabregas.
Raffaele Palladino insists Atalanta won’t hold back against Udinese, even with Bayern Munich coming up. ‘Going all out is in our DNA, we must attack and be aggressive.’
It kicks off at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).
However, do not expect Atalanta to take their foot off the gas for today’s Serie A match with Udinese.
Palladino will never leash Atalanta potential
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Mario Pasalic of Atalanta celebrates scoring his team’s third goal with teammates and fans during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Atalanta BC and Borussia Dortmund at Stadio di Bergamo on February 25, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“I cannot tell my team to hold back. Going all out is in our DNA, it has been long before I arrived at Atalanta, our mentality must be to attack and be aggressive,” Palladino told DAZN Italia.
“We’ve seen against Sassuolo, for example, that the moment we don’t do that, we slip up.”
Last week, Atalanta fell to a surprising 2-1 Serie A defeat to Sassuolo, damaging their prospects of a top four finish and Champions League qualification.
“We know playing is also a way of training, so we try to give 100 per cent in every match. It doesn’t always work, but our idea must be to go on the attack.”
There are some changes, as USMNT midfielder Yunus Musah receives a rare start in the Atalanta jersey following his move from Milan.
“He has some characteristics we need right now, especially against one of the most physically strong teams in the league. He can give us intensity, he scored two goals in his last two games, and I ask him to defend well. With Ederson out, there are only three midfielders, so he is making the most of the opportunity to make his mark.”
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 04: Yunus Musah of Atalanta scores his team’s second goal during the Coppa Italia match between SS Lazio and Atalanta BC at Olimpico Stadium on March 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Palladino also outlined his changes based on neutralising the strengths of an Udinese side who beat Fiorentina 3-0 last week.
“I make my choices based on the characteristics of the squad and the opponents. Kolasinac is good at reading the spaces, Udinese play 3-5-1-1 with Zaniolo behind the striker, Ekkelenkamp will attack the space and try to get behind our defenders, so we are prepared.
“It’s going to be a game decided by the individual duels, whoever wins those will have the best chances of winning the match.”
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Mario Pasalic of Atalanta celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Before kick-off, Palladino will receive his award as Serie A Coach of the Month for Februrary.
“I might be banal, but this prize belongs to everyone, because I can do zero by myself. The club chose me and supported me, the directors and staff shared all the preparation with me, and naturally the biggest credit for results goes to the players on the field. I share the prize with everyone.”
Roma are down to the bare bones for tomorrow’s match with Genoa, as Matias Soulé, Paulo Dybala, Mario Hermoso and Wesley miss out.
It kicks off at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris on Sunday at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).
Gian Piero Gasperini is struggling with a decimated squad and discovered this week it will be that way for a while, because both Dybala and Evan Ferguson required surgery.
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 10: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma in action during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on January 10, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Wesley Franca is suspended, while both Soulé and Hermoso have not yet recovered and are left behind in the Capital.
It is hoped that they can at least be on the bench for next week’s Europa League Round of 16 clash with fellow Italians Bologna.
Artem Dovbyk is another long-term absentee, so we could see Roma start Bryan Zaragoza with Lorenzo Pellegrini in support of Donyell Malen.
Roma squad for Genoa
Svilar, De Marzi, Gollini; Rensch, Angelino, Ndicka, Tsimikas, Celik, Mancini, Ziolkowski, Ghilardi; Cristante, Pellegrini, El Aynaoui, Kone, Pisilli; Malen, Venturino, Vaz, El Shaarawy, Zaragoza
Como continue their march on the Champions League places with a hard-fought 2-1 win away to Como, thanks to Martin Baturina and a Lucas Da Cunha stunner.
The Lariani climbed into fifth place with back-to-back victories over Juventus and Lecce, then held Inter to a 0-0 Coppa Italia semi-final first leg draw on Tuesday. Jayden Addai was the only long-term absentee, whereas the Sardinians were decimated by injuries to Yerry Mina, Luca Mazzitelli, Gianluca Gaetano, Alessandro Deiola, Gennaro Borrelli, Mattia Felici and Andrea Belotti, so Michael Folorunsho was a False 9.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – MARCH 07: the coach of Como Cesc Fabregas look on during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Como 1907 at Stadio Sant’Elia on March 07, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Como took the lead with their first chance of the game, winning it back in midfield, then Lucas Da Cunha’s scuffed finish turned into an assist for Martin Baturina to sweep home from close range.
Cagliari should’ve equalised on the half-hour mark, as first Michael Folorunsho’s strike was charged down, then the move continued and Ibrahim Sulemana hit a fresh-air shot on Marco Palestra’s roll across from 12 yards.
Como lost Maxi Perrone to a bruised thigh, replaced by Mergim Vojvoda and dropping Baturina into midfield.
The hosts did equalise when Palestra surged up the right from his own half and put in a cross, the Adam Obert scuffed volley turned into an accidental assist for Sebastiano Esposito’s diving header from seven yards.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – MARCH 07: Sebastiano Esposito of Cagliari celebrates his goal 1-1 with team mates during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Como 1907 at Stadio Sant’Elia on March 07, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Ze Pedro provided brave defending by charging down a Nico Paz screamer with his face, Juan Rodriguez doing the same on an acrobatic Alvaro Morata attempt.
Palestra was booked for simulation after squirming between two and losing his balance, but Como restored their lead thanks to a sensational strike from Lucas Da Cunha. He gathered 20 metres from goal and unleashed an unstoppable effort off the outside of the left boot, swerving into the far top corner.
A corner was flicked on by Gabriele Zappa for Semih Kilicsoy at the back post, cleared with difficulty by Marc-Oliver Kempf.
Jean Butez needed a fantastic fingertip save to push the Michel Adopo strike round the base of the near post.
Cagliari 1-2 Como
Baturina 14 (Co), Esposito 56 (Ca), Da Cunha 76 (Co)
There are increasing reports Marcus Thuram won’t be fit to start against Milan, so there are various different ways Inter could set out their attack.
It kicks off at San Siro on Sunday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Henrikh Mkhitaryan of FC Internazionale is pressured by Alexis Mac Allister of Liverpool FC during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between FC Internazionale Milano and Liverpool FC at Stadio San Siro on December 09, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Rossoneri are the only side within reach of the Serie A leaders, albeit with a 10-point gap, so this fixture could very well decide the Scudetto race.
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 04: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Cristian Chivu confirmed the France international had not trained today due to flu symptoms and a fever, but Sky Sport Italia are increasingly reporting that he won’t be ready to play tomorrow evening.
The most predictable option is to see Francesco Pio Esposito partnered by Ange-Yoan Bonny, which would be the first time they had started a Serie A match together.
Liverpool have officially confirmed that star midfielder Ryan Gravenberch has committed his long-term future to the club, putting pen to paper on a bumper new contract.
The Dutch international, who has become the heartbeat of the Reds’ midfield, signed the extension at Anfield on Saturday, following months of speculation regarding interest from abroad.
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Liverpool officially confirm new deal for Ryan Gravenberch
The club officially announced the agreement, revealing that Gravenberch has signed a six-year extension that will keep him on Merseyside until June 2032.
The deal represents a significant pay rise for the 23-year-old, reflecting his status as one of the first names on Arne Slot’s team sheet.
“I feel really, really good. I was really proud to extend my contract at such a big club. So, I’m really happy that I can stay for many more years.
“I felt directly the trust from the club, also from the manager. The decision for me was easy to make. My family is also happy here. We are now here almost three years, so I know everything already. I’m happy that I’m here.”
New Gravenberch deal fends off interest from European heavyweights
The timing of the contract is a massive statement of intent from Liverpool’s sporting hierarchy.
In recent months, rumours had intensified linking the Dutchman with moves to Real Madrid and Barcelona, both of whom were reportedly monitoring his situation as a “top priority” for the summer of 2026.
By tying Gravenberch down until 2032, Liverpool have effectively issued a ‘hands-off’ warning to the European elite.
With the midfield anchor secured, the club now turns its attention to securing a similar long-term agreement for Ibrahima Konate.
Ryan Gravenberch has been a revelation for Liverpool midfield
Ryan Gravenberch has been nothing short of a revelation since his move from Bayern Munich.
While his debut season under Jurgen Klopp was one of adaptation, his transformation under Arne Slot during the 2024/25 campaign was historic.
Shifted into a deeper “number 6” role, Gravenberch evolved into one of the best defensive pivots in world football.
His ability to break lines with his signature driving runs and his elite interception rate were the foundation of Liverpool’s success.
He played an integral role in returning the Premier League title to Anfield last May and was rightfully rewarded with the Premier League Young Player of the Season award and a spot in the PFA Team of the Year.
The Premier League table has been given a radical shake-up as a supercomputer has predicted how the final standings will look at the end of the season.
The data-driven forecast, conducted by CasinoHawks (via The Sun), suggests a historic shift at both ends of the table, including a title winner decided by the narrowest of margins and a traditional “Big Six” powerhouse facing the drop.
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Arsenal to edge Man City for Premier League title
In the race for the crown, the supercomputer predicts that Arsenal will finally end their title drought, finishing at the summit with 86 points.
The Gunners are tipped to secure 26 wins, edging out Manchester City by a single point after Pep Guardiola’s side finishes on 85.
The battle for Champions League football also sees a return to form for Manchester United, who are predicted to finish third with 68 points.
They are followed by Chelsea in fourth with 65 points, beating out Liverpool and Aston Villa for the final elite European spot on goal difference, as all three clubs are projected to finish level on points.
Tottenham to relegate along with Burnley and Wolves
While the title race is gripping, the most shocking revelation from the supercomputer is the predicted demise of Tottenham.
In what would be one of the most stunning collapses in Premier League history, Tottenham are tipped to finish 18th, suffering relegation with just 31 points.
They are predicted to go down alongside Burnley (29 points) and Wolves (18 points).
The prediction raises serious questions: could the unthinkable really happen to Spurs? Since taking the reins, manager Igor Tudor has failed to make a positive impact, with performances steadily worsening rather than improving.
The squad appears devoid of confidence, and based on the current trajectory and these latest figures, a drop to the Championship looks increasingly like a grim reality.
With no more wins predicted for the remaining campaign, the North London club faces a desperate fight to prove the data wrong.
Arsenal avoided an FA Cup upset as they defeated Mansfield Town 2-1 to progress into the quarter-finals of the competition. After Will Evans cancelled out Noni Madueke’s opener at One Call Stadium, Eberechi Eze lashed in the winner after 66 minutes to keep the Gunners’ hopes of winning the quadruple in 2025-26 alive. Arsenal should […]
2025–26 Saudi Pro League action continues on Matchday 25 as Al Nassr face NEO. Fans in the USA can find all the essential information here, including kickoff times and full broadcast details for both television and streaming platforms.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Al Nassr vs NEOM on US television and via legal streaming:
Pressure is mounting in the Saudi Pro Leaguetitle race as Al Nassr prepares for a pivotal clash against NEOM. Following wins by Al Hilal and Al Ahli, second-place Al Nassr enters the matchup with 61 points and a chance to seize sole possession of first place with a victory.
Led by Cristiano Ronaldo, Al Nassr understands the stakes in a tight championship battle, while mid-table NEOM looks to capitalize on the spotlight opportunity by earning a statement result and climbing the standings.
More details on how to watch
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Sadio Mane of Al Nassr celebrates with teammate Cristiano Ronaldo
It is not just Harry Kane who is nursing an injury ahead of Bayern Munich’s Champions League clash with Atalanta, as Manuel Neuer is ruled out by a calf strain.
The first leg in the Round of 16 tie kicks off at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo on Tuesday at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).
La Dea are the only Italian competitors left in the tournament going into the last 16, and undoubtedly are the underdogs when facing the German giants.
It therefore is reassuring when they learn that Bayern Munich are dealing with quite a few injury worries going into the match.
Bayern Munich face injury concerns with Atalanta
MUNICH, GERMANY – JANUARY 21: Harry Kane of Bayern Munich celebrates during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD7 match between FC Bayern München and R. Union Saint-Gilloise at Football Arena Munich on January 21, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Adam Pretty/Getty Images)
Kane was ruled out of last night’s 4-1 Bundesliga victory over Borussia Monchengladbach, the team’s sixth consecutive win in all competition.
He is still nursing a calf injury and it remains to be seen if he will play against Atalanta.
Now it is reported that goalkeeper Neuer is also struggling after picking up a minor calf strain yesterday, and is expected to be out for two weeks, so could miss the second leg too.
He was replaced on the night by Jonas Urbig and the 22-year-old should take the gloves in Bergamo.
Urbig has played 11 games for Bayern Munich this season, keeping four clean sheets and conceding 11 goals.
MUNICH, GERMANY – MARCH 06: Manuel Neuer of FC Bayern München looks on during the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern München and Borussia Mönchengladbach at Allianz Arena on March 06, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Sebastian Widmann/Getty Images)
Alphonso Davies, Hiroki Ito and Leon Klanac are already long-term absentees.
Massimo Ambrosini believes that Sunday’s Derby della Madonnina will be won in midfield, and suggests that Youssouf Fofana could be the ‘surprise’ player to settle the crunch match between Milan and Inter.
Ambrosini spent 18 years with Milan, turning out a total of 489 times across all competitions for the Rossoneri. He was also involved in his fair share of derbies, 29 different matches against Inter to be precise, with a record of 11 wins, six draws and 12 defeats.
The 35-time Italy international was among the former players to give his thoughts ahead of Sunday’s derby in a recent interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Ambrosini previews Milan vs. Inter and makes ‘surprise’ Fofana prediction
During his talk with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ambrosini was asked which of those derbies was his favourite to take part in.
“The two in the Champions League in 2003. But in general, every derby was an incredible experience. The two Curvas, the noise of the stadium, the adrenaline,” he said.
Milan talisman Rafael Leao has recently described this derby as a matter of ‘life or death’ for the Rossoneri. “Sportingly speaking, it is,” Ambrosini agrees. “At least for Milan who are chasing. Winning would mean getting back to -7 from the top and putting some pressure back on Inter.”
ITALY – JANUARY 18: Rafael Leao reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 18, 2026 in San Siro, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Still, closing down a seven point margin with 10 matches of the season left to play is one step too far for this current Milan side, Ambrosini concedes.
“I say no, even if you always have to dream in football. My Milan side made up seven points against Lazio within seven matches in 1999. But, if they’d asked me back then how much I believed in a comeback, I probably would have said the same as I’m saying now.
“Max has given Milan its soul back, starting with defensive solidity, which was the priority. That’s why I don’t think he’ll move from the 3-5-2. The mission to return to the Champions League is getting closer.”
Inter on the other hand, are on their way to winning their 21st league title in what is Cristian Chivu’s first full season in senior management.
“Cristian’s changed his register recently,” Ambrosini noted. “He’s chosen a bit more of a8 protective line of communication compared to what he did at the start. His work has been exceptional and shouldn’t be taken for granted. The only drawback is the (Champions League) elimination against Bodo.”
How does Ambrosini see this upcoming derby being settled?
“In midfield,” he replied. “I don’t expect a very open game, but a big battle especially in the middle, maybe decided by a surprise player.”
ITALY – JANUARY 08: Youssouf Fofana battles for possession with Johan Vasquez of Genoa during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 08, 2026 in San Siro, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
When asked who, he said: “Fofana. He’s been unlucky so far. I like his attitude and it shouldn’t be forgotten that he’s had to adapt as a midfielder.”
Lastly, Ambrosini had his say on emerging Inter and Italy talent Pio Esposito. He said: “He’s a serious and strong guy. I think everyone appreciates him because he conveys that desire to improve. I like him.”
Christian Vieri says that young players like Pio Esposito need protecting, but argues that the 20-year-old is still strong enough to be competing for a starting spot at Inter despite his age: “The fact that we still don’t know how to manage young players in Italy hasn’t changed.”
Vieri praises and protects Esposito: ‘We still don’t know how to manage young players in Italy’
Esposito is in contention for a starting spot in the Derby della Madonnina between the league leading Nerazzurri and their city rivals, Milan on Sunday evening.
The 20-year-old has impressed in his first full season in the Inter first team and will be going in search of his eighth goal of the season against Milan. He has also featured in 25 of Inter’s 27 matches of the Serie A season, as Cristian Chivu’s side look to go 13+ points clear in their hunt for a 21st league title.
Speaking in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Vieri spoke of the need to protect young talents like Esposito, but insists that he is already proving why he is good enough to compete with the likes of Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram.
Lautaro is injured and unavailable for Sunday’s derby. Vieri described the Argentine as “the strongest centre-forward in Italy. He’s Inter’s engine. They miss everything he does in games, and he can unlock it at any time. Only Hojlund has been as strong as him this season.”
Vieri believes that it is players like Esposito and summer signing Ange-Yoan Bonny that have made the difference this season, though.
Inter came back from two goals down in a home Serie A clash against Pisa, completing a comeback with Piotr Zielinski, Lautaro Martinez and Francesco Pio Esposito in the opening Round 22 match in Pisa, Italy.
“This year, Inter have what they have been lacking in the past: Non-starting centre-forwards who are still up to scratch.”
One of the standouts has been Esposito: “The fact that we still don’t know how to manage young players in Italy hasn’t changed,” Vieri argues.
“One day he’s amazing and the next he’s disappointing: ‘Why didn’t you score that goal’, or whatever. Pio isn’t even 21 years old yet, and it’s not been long since his journey from Spezia to Inter. Not many have done that.”
Despite the need to ‘protect’ youngsters like Esposito, Vieri believes that he is more than old enough to compete with Inter’s most senior players: “Otherwise he wouldn’t have been able to hold his own on a physical level in Europe,” he says.
LECCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 21: Francesco Pio Esposito of Inter warms up prior to Italy’s Serie A match between US Lecce and FC Internazionale at Stadio Via del Mare on February 21, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
“If you train against strong guys, you improve. And they tell me that he has a lot of desire to improve. Now when he gets the ball, he plays with it a lot more than he did before. He also has the touch that you need to send your teammate through on goal.”
Cristian Chivu warns Inter ‘cannot lose our identity’ even if a draw would suffice against Milan in the Scudetto race, and insists ‘we can all learn’ from Max Allegri.
It kicks off at San Siro on Sunday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
MADRID, SPAIN – NOVEMBER 26: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of Internazionale, and Yann Aurel Bisseck of Internazionale embrace after the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Atletico de Madrid and FC Internazionale Milano at Estadio Metropolitano on November 26, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri are having an oddly mixed season, as while they crashed out of the Champions League play-offs to Bodo/Glimt and played a defensive 0-0 Coppa Italia semi-final first leg draw with Como on Tuesday, they are 10 points clear at the top of the Serie A table.
A victory tomorrow night against second-placed Milan could practically lock down the Scudetto with two months to spare.
Chivu wants a positive Inter approach
BODO, NORWAY – FEBRUARY 18: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, gestures to his players during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off First Leg match between FK Bodo/Glimt and FC Internazionale Milano at Aspmyra Stadion on February 18, 2026 in Bodo, Norway. (Photo by Martin Ole Wold/Getty Images)
“We’ve got to keep the good run going, trying to be competitive and seeking those variations that can allow us to express ourselves even better on the pitch.”
Considering the vast advantage, even a draw could be treated like a success in this fixture, but the coach won’t hear of it.
“We cannot change our identity, the one we have had since the start. We’ve just got to understand the various moments of the match, without losing the approach that got us these results so far.”
Inter are unbeaten in Serie A since the last derby with rivals Milan, a 1-0 result on November 23, followed by a 2-2 draw with Napoli and 14 victories.
“Since the start of this year, we’ve improved and have a different approach to games, because we don’t underestimate or over-estimate anyone,” insisted Chivu.
“What matters is what we want to do, how we control the game, and I think that the ambitions we built for ourselves deservedly this season allow us to be without pressure, aware we are facing a strong opponent.
“Milan have top individual players, but we must be the best version of ourselves. I expect consistency on all the good things we’ve done so far, and the way we reacted to a few defeats and disappointments, such as Bodo.
“This team has the kind of belief that allows it to face every match in the same way. We’ve got to also avoid errors that can play to Milan’s strengths, but that doesn’t mean being passive.”
Did the defeat to Milan provide the switch in Inter’s season, considering they are unbeaten since then including eight consecutive victories?
“I don’t think that was what did it,” replied Chivu. “The switch was after the 3-1 defeat to Napoli. The derby was just down to an unfortunate incident that went against us, but the improvement was already evident before that.”
“I am the last person who can talk about Max, because he won six league titles and other trophies. We can all only learn from him as a coach and a person. We know each other and had spoken when I was at Parma.
“I am always happy to deal with someone who understands football, who knows what to do in certain situations. He can teach us so much.”
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 18: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 18, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Marcus Thuram is a doubt with flu symptoms and did not train today, while Lautaro Martinez is injured, so Francesco Pio Esposito seems to be the only guaranteed starter in attack for Inter.
“Pio is fortunate to have teammates who help keep him relaxed, but he is also helped by his work ethic. It’s not a fluke he is doing so well this season, he knows how to handle pressure.
“He doesn’t have the pace of Marcus or Bonny, but he’s so good in knocking down the ball, helping hold the ball up, playing in the penalty area.”
Lautaro Martinez might be out of action, but he is still playing a key role in the preparation for the derby.
“Lautaro is there with us every day and always ready with the right words. You can see the leadership of a captain who cares about this squad,” added Chivu.
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 23: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu embrace his player Luis Henrique after substitution during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Pisa SC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 23, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Denzel Dumfries made his comeback with a couple of substitute appearances after ankle surgery and could potentially even start with Milan.
“He lacks match fitness, but is working well every day after three months out. Obviously, training is not the same as a match situation, so he needs more minutes, but I’m glad to have him at my disposal.”
Alessandro Bastoni has been loudly jeered by opposition fans in his last two games since the controversial Juventus incident, where he got Pierre Kalulu sent off with a simulation.
“This is something that he and I cannot control,” concluded Chivu.
“It is a consequence of what happened, I think it will probably last a while. It’s a pity, because we need football to remain just a game. Ale is a person, he knows how much his teammates count on and need him. This gives him comfort and strength, our daily respect and embraces help him.
“His performances against Lecce and Como were, despite the jeers, very good. This is to his credit that he can express himself at a high level even in these circumstances.”
Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has confirmed that Evan Ferguson’s season is likely over, that Artem Dovbyk is unlikely to feature until May and has also denied rumours of any meetings with Giallorossi legend Francesco Totti.
The Roma head coach sat down for his pre-match press conference on Saturday ahead of tomorrow’s Serie A match against Genoa, who are under the guidance of former Giallorossi captain and manager Daniele De Rossi.
News broke on Saturday morning that Brighton loanee Ferguson is expected to undergo surgery on an ankle issue that has kept him out of action for the last few weeks, and that the procedure is likely to spell the end of his season.
The 21-year-old is unlikely to feature for Roma again, as the Giallorossi are extremely unlikely to activate the €40m option to buy clause in their deal with Brighton.
“If we include Dovbyk and Ferguson, we’re in a really difficult situation,” Gasperini told the press on Saturday.
“Dovbyk’s been out for many months. The surgery’s been done, if all goes well, he could return at the end of April, maybe the beginning of May. We continue to consider him among the absentees.
“The same goes for Ferguson at this point, because this is probably where his season ends to have surgery on his ankle, so he won’t have time to recover, even at the end of the season. So they’re now crossed off the list.
“But then there is Malen, there is Vaz, there is Venturino, there are others. We’ve got El Shaarawy and Pellegrini back, we have the numbers to continue playing.”
It was suggested to Gasperini that some of Roma’s medical diagnoses have not been particularly accurate this season.
He replied: “No, but it would be presumptuous of me to talk about medicine. It’s not a topic on which we can discuss on the level with the doctors and professionals. It’s true that they’ve had to deal with lots of cases though, isn’t it.
“Starting with Ferguson, who arrived a year after an operation with great initial difficulties in getting back to his best with the few games he played last year. Then he had an excellent period around December, then there was this relapse, but this was a different case.
“Then there’s been the Angelino matter, there was Bailey, there was Dovbyk, and now Dybala. Undoubtedly this is quite rare in football because they aren’t even muscular injuries, they’re all quite specific, each one different from the other.
“It’s definitely had an effect having to give up these players for such a long time. However, despite that, we’ve come this far, we have to continue and move forwards with our best intentions.”
Gasperini denies Totti rumours: ‘Never met with him’
GENOA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Francesco Totti, former captain of Roma, reacts prior to kick-off in the Serie A TIM match between Genoa CFC and AS Roma at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on September 28, 2023 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Gasperini has denied any knowledge of any meetings or talks with Roma legend Totti, who has been rumoured to be eyeing a return to the club in some sort of backroom role.
“I’m not in a position to talk about these situations,” said Gasperini. “I’ve been in Rome for eight or nine months. I’ve never met with Totti, it’s not a topic that I’ve brought up. It came out a month ago, not from me.”
There have been reports that Roma have discussed potential roles and further details with Totti, but Gasperini denies any knowledge of this.
Gasperini on Genoa vs Roma
ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 29: Manu Kone of AS Roma scores the team’s second goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Genoa CFC at Stadio Olimpico on December 29, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Gasperini went on to give his thoughts about the upcoming clash with Genoa in Serie A and his team’s successes so far this season.
“I continue to look ahead, I continue to look to the match against Genoa. We’ll have Genoa, then Bologna, Como, Bologna again, and then before the break we have Lecce. It’s two good weeks, but not decisive. The decisive things will happen in May. The goal for now is to stay in the mix.
“Tomorrow we play in Genoa. I know well what the stadium is like when it’s full. A team that is strong at home, dragged and pushed on by its supporters. We have to think about the team and our performances.”
Manchester United face a defining summer transfer window, but their hopes of securing top targets Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton appear to hinge entirely on qualifying for the Champions League.
According to recent report from The Sun, the Red Devils may be priced out of a move for the England internationals if they fail to secure a top-four finish.
While United have long identified both players as the ideal successors to the departing Casemiro, the financial and competitive hurdles are mounting.
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Manchester United fight for top four finish
The race for European football has intensified following Manchester United’s first defeat under interim manager Michael Carrick, a late 2-1 loss to Newcastle United.
Despite the setback, United remain third in the Premier League with 51 points, currently holding their position over Aston Villa on goal difference.
However, the margin for error is non-existent. Both Chelsea and Liverpool sit just three points behind with 48 points each, making the upcoming fixtures against fellow top-four hopefuls critical.
Manchester United midfield reinforcement a priority
United’s pursuit of Wharton and Anderson highlights a glaring historical issue at Old Trafford.
The club has earmarked the engine room as their absolute priority for the summer, a necessary move considering they have recruited only two out-and-out central midfielders in the last eight years.
However, the 22-year-old is said to be “keen on only joining a club in the Champions League,” effectively placing a “Europe or bust” ultimatum on United’s recruitment team.
With rivals like Liverpool and Manchester City also monitoring the duo, United’s ability to provide Champions League football will be the deciding factor in whether they finally fix their long-standing midfield deficiencies.
The spotlight surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo rarely fades, and that is especially true whenever the Portuguese icon is missing from the starting lineup.
The spotlight surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo rarely fades, and that is especially true whenever the Portuguese icon is missing from the starting lineup. Ahead of an important Saudi Pro League clash between Al‑Nassr and NEOM SC, fans quickly noticed that the global superstar would not be involved in the matchday squad.
For Al-Nassr, the absence of its captain and leading scorer represents a major storyline ahead of a match they are expected to dominate at home. The Saudi side is ranked second in the Saudi Pro League standings, enjoying an excellent run of form and entering the match with strong momentum. Meanwhile, NEOM, a recently promoted club that has shown flashes of promise this season, will attempt to capitalize on the absence of the league’s most recognizable figure.
Despite the Portuguese’s absence, Jorge Jesus and his players enter the match as the clear favorites. The team has won 12 consecutive matches in all competitions, demonstrating both attacking firepower and defensive stability.
The visiting side, coached by Christophe Galtier, currently sits mid-table and has struggled for consistency in recent weeks. The club includes notable names such as Alexandre Lacazette and Said Benrahma, but it will still face a difficult challenge away from home.
The previous meeting between the two sides ended in a 3–1 victory for Al-Nassr, a match in which Ronaldo himself found the net. This time, however, the league leader must attempt to secure another three points without its most iconic player.
The reason for Ronaldo’s absence revealed
The reason for Ronaldo’s absence traces back to Al-Nassr’s 3-1 victory over Al-Fayha, a match that saw the Portuguese forward leave the pitch earlier than expected. During that game, Ronaldo suffered a hamstring muscle injury, forcing him to be substituted before the final whistle.
Subsequent medical tests revealed that the injury was more serious than initially feared, prompting the club to take immediate action. The decision was made to send the veteran striker to Spain for specialized treatment and recovery. According to reports and statements from the club’s coaching staff, Ronaldo will temporarily step away from the squad while undergoing rehabilitation.
Jorge Jesus, Manager of Al-Nassr, interacts with Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr.
Al-Nassr coach Jorge Jesus addressed the situation in a press conference, explaining the reasoning behind the decision. “In the last game, Cristiano left with a muscle injury,” Jesus said. “After the tests he underwent, it became clear that it is a more serious injury than we were expecting.”
The Portuguese manager also confirmed that Ronaldo would receive treatment outside Saudi Arabia in order to accelerate his recovery. “Cristiano will travel to Spain for treatment… We hope he will return soon to help the team.”
Ronaldo makes Madrid trip as Portugal sweats over his fitness
The news that Ronaldo had traveled to Madrid quickly fueled speculation online. Public flight-tracking data even appeared to show his private jet landing in the Spanish capital, leading some outlets to suggest alternative reasons for his absence.
However, those rumors were quickly dismissed by the club. The trip was purely medical, with the 41-year-old veteran expected to work closely with his personal physiotherapist and medical team during the recovery process. The expected recovery timeline is between two and four weeks, meaning Ronaldo could miss several important matches for both club and country.
That timeline raises additional questions regarding Portugal’s upcoming international schedule. The national team is set to play friendlies against Mexico and the USMNT later this month, and the superstar’s availability for those games is now uncertain.
Wrexham play against Chelsea in the fifth round of the FA Cup during the 2025/2026 season. Here’s everything to know for viewers in the United States, including the date, venue, kickoff time, and details on TV coverage or live streaming.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Wrexham vs Chelsea on US television and via legal streaming:
A place in the next round of the FA Cup will be at stake when Chelsea meet Wrexham in the fifth round of the historic tournament. Wrexhamarrive in strong form, enjoying an impressive EFL Championship campaign while continuing their rapid rise through English football and hoping to deliver a major upset.
Chelsea, meanwhile, remain near the top of the Premier League standings and see the FA Cup as a key opportunity to secure silverware this season. With plenty on the line for both sides, this matchup has all the ingredients for an exciting clash—so make sure not to miss the action.
More details on how to watch
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Spanish soccer is preparing for a nostalgic celebration unlike anything the league has attempted before. Yet even before the initiative begins, attention has already shifted toward the absence of some of the sport’s brightest stars.
Spanish soccer is preparing for a nostalgic celebration unlike anything the league has attempted before. Yet even before the initiative begins, attention has already shifted toward the absence of some of the sport’s brightest stars. Supporters expecting to see players such as Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior representing Real Madrid, or teenage sensation Lamine Yamal stepping out for Barcelona, during a special celebration will instead witness something very different.
In fact, despite the excitement surrounding the league’s newest marketing experiment, two of the most influential clubs in Spanish soccer will not fully participate on the pitch, creating a surprising twist in what was meant to be a united tribute to the past. The league’s ambitious project promised to transport fans back in time, but the absence of these global stars has left many asking the same question: why would Barcelona and Real Madrid step aside from such a historic occasion?
The La Liga has announced an unprecedented event scheduled for April 10-13, 2026, when clubs across Spain’s top two divisions will participate in the first-ever Retro Matchday. The concept is simple but visually powerful: teams will wear kits inspired by iconic designs from their own history, recreating the aesthetic of famous seasons, legendary players, and unforgettable triumphs.
In total, 38 clubs across La Liga and the Segunda Division have agreed to join the initiative. Their retro uniforms will be unveiled during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid, transforming the jerseys into both sporting and cultural artifacts. Beyond the jerseys themselves, the retro theme will extend to the entire broadcast experience. Referees will wear vintage-style uniforms, match balls will carry classic designs, and television coverage will feature retro graphics meant to evoke the look of older soccer broadcasts.
⚽ 🕰️ La historia nunca pasa de moda.
LALIGA lanza por primera vez la Jornada Retro, donde 38 clubes vestirán equipaciones inspiradas en modelos icónicos de su legado del 10 al 13 de abril.
👕 La colección será presentada el 19 de marzo en La Gran Semana de la Moda Española,… pic.twitter.com/2v5NV0gVoK
According to league officials, the initiative represents a major cultural moment for Spanish soccer. As explained by La Liga Club Office director Jaime Blanco: “The Retro Day is a unique opportunity to pay tribute to the history of our clubs and the symbols that have shaped several generations of fans. It is a way to bring the past into the present, continuing to create experiences and forge a legacy that connects emotionally with fans.”
The surprise absence of four clubs
Despite the overwhelming enthusiasm across the league, four clubs will not wear retro kits during the special matchday. Those teams are Real Madrid, Barcelona, Getafe, and Rayo Vallecano. While the league had envisioned a collective moment of nostalgia involving every club, the reality has proven more complicated.
The absence of the two most globally recognized teams, Barcelona and Real Madrid, has particularly drawn attention, as it means fans will not see some of the world’s biggest stars wearing throwback shirts during the event.
A handshake prior to the Barcelona v Real Madrid Champions League semi-final
Why Barcelona and Real Madrid are skipping the retro kits
The reasons behind the decision vary between the clubs. Barcelona, Getafe, and Rayo Vallecano will not wear retro kits on the pitch due to logistical and production issues. Reports indicate that there was insufficient time to prepare the vintage designs for this season’s matchday. However, those clubs will still participate in the campaign’s promotional aspects and are expected to introduce their retro kits in future editions of the initiative.
Patrick Kluivert, Rivaldo and Dani of Barcelona celebrate
The situation is different for Real Madrid. Los Blancos have chosen not to participate in the project at all, meaning the team will simply wear its standard 2025-26 kit during Matchday 31. League officials have not indicated that Madrid formally opposed the campaign, but the club has reportedly distanced itself entirely from the initiative, without providing a detailed public explanation.
Roberto Carlos of Real Madrid holds his arm aloft in celebration
As a result, the Santiago Bernabeu side will be the only club fully absent from the wider retro celebration, while the other three teams remain involved in promotional activities.
Lamine Yamal (left) and Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior (right)
Cristian Chivu reveals new concerns for Inter ahead of tomorrow’s Derby della Madonnina with Milan, as Marcus Thuram ‘did not train today’ because of illness.
It kicks off at San Siro on Sunday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
COMO, ITALY – MARCH 03: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu during the Coppa Italia match between Como 1907 and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on March 03, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri were already forced to do without captain and Capocannoniere Lautaro Martinez, who has been out of action since suffering a calf strain during the first leg of their Champions League play-off with Bodo/Glimt last month.
Chivu struggling with Thuram fitness
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazioale celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Now Thuram is a doubt to start in attack too for one of the biggest matches of the season, as revealed by Chivu in his press conference this afternoon.
“The lads are doing pretty well, they trained well after the Coppa Italia game with Como,” said the coach.
“We had a few problems today with Marcus, who has a fever and did not manage to do the training session. We can only hope that tomorrow he will be at 100 per cent and at our disposal.”
There is a boost with the return of Hakan Calhanoglu, who on Tuesday in the 0-0 Coppa Italia semi-final draw against Como had his first start in six weeks.
“Calhanoglu is fine, he is at our disposal tomorrow. Playing an hour in Como helped him, and we’ll see for tomorrow.”
Ange-Yoan Bonny had missed the previous Serie A round due to a muscular issue, but he returned as a substitute against Como.
Francesco Pio Esposito therefore seems the only guaranteed starter in attack for Inter.
Luciano Spalletti has confirmed his squad of 22 Juventus players to take on Pisa in Serie A this evening, but centre-forward Dusan Vlahovic is not included on this occasion.
The Bianconeri are preparing to take on Pisa in Serie A on Saturday afternoon. Spalletti’s side will be aiming for three points, which they hope will push them further towards the Serie A top four after slipping behind Como and Roma in recent weeks.
The Bianconeri are without a win across their last four matches, but did record an encouraging 3-3 comeback draw away against Roma last time out in the league. Saturday’s opponents, Pisa, have only won one of their 37 Serie A matches all season and have lost three on the bounce heading into the Juve clash.
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus FC lies injured during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Cagliari Calcio at Allianz Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Vlahovic has recently returned to training after suffering a high-grade adductor injury earlier this season, which has required three months of rehabilitation.
There had been some hopes at the beginning of the week that Vlahovic would be included in the matchday squad to face Pisa, but this has come one too soon. Spalletticonfirmed on Friday that Vlahovic is in contention to face Udinese next week instead.
Instead, Jonathan David looks set to lead the line for Juventus against Pisa, with support likely to come from Francisco Conceicao, Weston McKennie and Kenan Yildiz.
Confirmed Juventus squad for Pisa
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Juventus FC head coach Luciano Spalletti looks on during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Como 1907 at on February 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Former Inter and Italy striker Christian Vieri argues that Alessandro Bastoni has ‘apologised, knows that he was wrong and that should be enough’, as the Nerazzurri defender continues to earn boos around grounds in Italy following his involvement in the sending off of Juventus’s Pierre Kalulu in the Derby d’Italia last month.
Bastoni continues to cut a divisive figure in Italy after Inter’s 3-2 victory over rivals Juventus in Serie A in February.
With the scores level at 1-1 in the first half, Bastoni took an obvious tumble to the floor under the soft challenge of Kalulu, which resulted in referee Federico La Penna sending the Juventus man off for his second yellow card. Bastoni was then seen passionately celebrating as the red card was shown to Kalulu. Inter went on to win 3-2 against the 10-man Bianconeri.
Bastoni apologised for the way that he celebrated the decision to send Kalulu off a few days after the incident, but condemned the abuse that he and his family had suffered in the aftermath.
The ordeal has upset not just upset Juventus supporters, as the Italy international has since been treated to boos at various grounds across Serie A.
There had even been calls from certain supporters for the Nerazzurri defender to be dropped from Gennaro Gattuso’s Italy squad ahead of the crucial World Cup play-off campaign coming up at the end of March.
Former Italy players defend Bastoni
Speaking in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport ahead of the upcoming Derby della Madonnina between Inter and Milan, former Italy striker Vieri has come out in defence of Bastoni.
WASHINGTON, DC – DECEMBER 05: Christian Vieri, FIFA legend poses on the red carpet prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Draw at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on December 05, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)
“What he did, everyone does. Come on,” Vieri said. “The cameras are unforgiving and social media is terrible. They take out all the context.
“We’ve seen videos of those who celebrate, even those who pretend to be hurt on the pitch, those who get up as soon as their opponent is booked. Bastoni went into the press room, apologised, he knows it was wrong and that should be enough. The Milan fans will all boo, but not just him.”
Former Juventus winger Massimo Mauro has also come out in defence of Bastoni ahead of the World Cup play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland on March 26.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 16: Alessandro Bastoni of Italy warms up prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“The fact that Bastoni gets booed everywhere is a bit ridiculous. At this point, you’d have to boo 60-70% of footballers,” he said in a recent interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“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.”
Thiago Motta is reportedly among the potential candidates to replace Igor Tudor as head coach of Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur, less than a year after the Italian was replaced by the Croatian at Juventus.
Could Tottenham replace Tudor with another former Juventus head coach?
It has been just shy of a year since Motta was dismissed from his position as head coach of Juventus. The former Bologna tactician did not last the full year with the Old Lady after a summer of heavy spending and a long series of unconvincing results thereafter.
Motta was let go from his position on March 23 last year, and Tudor was announced as his replacement later on the same day.
Tudor was initially appointed Juventus head coach on a short-term contract until the end of the 2024-25 season, but was later handed a contract extension until the summer of 2028 after impressing with his short run of fixtures towards the end of the campaign.
Tudor did not last long, though, and was replaced by current incumbent Luciano Spalletti at the end of October.
ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 26: Igor Tudor, Head Coach of Juventus, reacts during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on October 26, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Tudor has since been appointed as the head coach of Premier League strugglers Tottenham, again on a short-term contract until the end of the season, but has gone on to lose his first three matches in charge, which leaves Spurs just one point above the relegation zone with nine league matches of the season left to play.
Reports in the UK indicate that Juventus are considering sacking Tudor just three games into his tenure, and according to reports in Italy, Motta is among the potential candidates to replace him.
As per Tuttosport and Calciomercato.com, Tottenham have two potential Italian head coaches in mind in Motta and former Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi. There are other alternatives in Sean Dyche, Robbie Keane and Ryan Mason.
Massimilano Allegri has had the opportunity to comment on his future after a week of rumours linking him to the Real Madrid job, less than a year into his tenure with Milan: ‘We haven’t achieved anything yet’.
Reports in Italy this week have claimed that Allegri has been the long-term subject of a courtship from Real Madrid President Florentino Perez, and that the LaLiga giants could be poised to make a move for the Milan head coach to replace Alvaro Arbeola.
Updates claim that Milan are now keen to offer Allegri an extension to his contract, potentially until 2028, as a result of the Real Madrid interest.
Allegri comments on Madrid rumours and Milan future
Allegri has since had a chance to address the recent rumours regarding his future during his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s Derby della Madonnina against city rivals and league leaders, Inter.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: The head coach of AC Milan during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“I’m linked to Milan until 2027. My future is tomorrow. I’m fine at Milan and I’m very happy,” the Milan head coach told the press on Saturday.
“We only started the journey in July. The club is working for the future. But until we reach our goal, we will have to stay focused on the present. We haven’t achieved anything yet.”
Mohamed Salah could play a decisive role in determining the future of Cody Gakpo at Liverpool, according to former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown.
Cody Gakpo’s future at the club was uncertain last summer with Bayern Munich showing strong interest in signing him.
However, the Reds ultimately decided to keep Gakpo while selling Luis Diaz to Bayern instead, with the Netherlands international subsequently committing his future to the club by signing a new contract.
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Mohamed Salah set to decide Cody Gakpo future at Liverpool
“Gakpo is somebody who could have left last summer.
“He was one of a few players who were spoken about, these attacking players at Liverpool who haven’t quite been as impressive as Slot may have hoped.
“He ended up staying, but his performances this season haven’t done much to change the opinion that he might be a bit below the level they hope for.
“In that case, if a huge offer comes in from somewhere like Bayern Munich, then I’m sure they’ll listen and be prepared to let him move on.
“The problem is, Mohamed Salah is going to play a big part because there’s a big chance he could leave Liverpool and they won’t want too much change.
“After everything that happened last summer and the chaos of it all, I can’t see Liverpool letting more than one attacker leave, otherwise it just adds to the unsettled feeling.
“So a lot will depend on what happens with Salah. If he leaves, I expect they’ll keep Gakpo, and if he stays then maybe Gakpo will go instead.”
Salah’s Liverpool future remains uncertain
Salah’s incredible time at Liverpool could come to an end at the end of the season.
The Egyptian forward has spent nine years at Anfield and, during that time, has rewritten the club’s record books while establishing himself as one of the greatest players in Liverpool’s history and one of the finest to ever play in the Premier League.
With 254 goals and 121 assists for the club, Salah has been instrumental in Liverpool’s success, helping the Reds win two Premier League titles, the Champions League, two League Cups and the FA Cup.
Although the current season has been one of his quieter campaigns in a Liverpool shirt, Salah has still registered 17 goal contributions in 31 games, highlighting the extraordinary standards he has set for himself.
That said, Salah’s future at the club has become uncertain after the public fallout between him and Slot earlier in the season.
Saudi Pro League clubs have long held a strong interest in signing Salah and, while the Egyptian has been incredibly loyalty to Liverpool, reports suggest he could now be open to a move away.
Cody Gakpo’s future could hinge on Salah decision
Liverpool are reportedly keen to avoid a repeat of last summer’s attacking overhaul, when several forwards were linked with departures at the same time.
According to Brown, that situation means the club are unlikely to allow multiple attackers to leave in the same window.
Competition
Played
Goals
Assists
Premier League
27
6
3
Champions League
7
2
1
FA Cup
3
0
0
Total
37
8
4
Cody Gakpo stats 25/26 via Transfermarkt
If Salah departs, Liverpool would likely retain Gakpo to maintain stability in their forward line. However, if Salah decides to stay at Anfield, the club could be more willing to listen to offers for the Dutch attacker.
As a result, Salah’s future could ultimately determine whether Gakpo remains part of Liverpool’s plans moving forward.
Despite a recent lack of minutes in the Premier League, the Japanese international remains a vital part of Daniel Farke’s side.
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Pete O’Rourke on Ao Tanaka future at Leeds United
Speaking on the player’s situation, Pete O’Rourke highlighted that while Tanaka hasn’t been a fixture in the starting lineup lately, his departure is not on the cards.
Speaking on Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, he said:
“It’ll be an interesting one. I still think he’s got a role to play for Leeds.
“He’s obviously been on the bench for the last six Premier League games. Leeds have got this starting eleven that they’re sticking with right now, with Stach, Ampadu and Gruev in midfield.
“He’s obviously struggled for appearances in recent weeks, but has still made 22 appearances in all competitions and popped up with three goals.
“I don’t think Leeds would be pushing him out the door right now. He’s still a important squad player for the club and I’m sure he will remain that until the end of the season as well.”
Having sacked Thomas Frank, Tottenham Hotspur appointed Igor Tudor as the interim head coach until the end of the season, but the Croat, as it seems, is anything but a solution to their problems. His team lost all three games they’ve played so far – the North London Derby to Arsenal at home, away to […]
Having sacked Thomas Frank, Tottenham Hotspur appointed Igor Tudor as the interim head coach until the end of the season, but the Croat, as it seems, is anything but a solution to their problems. His team lost all three games they’ve played so far – the North London Derby to Arsenal at home, away to […]
As Al-Nassr and Al-Ahli chase the title and their star forwards compete for the Golden Boot, a stunning development has shaken the race.
The battle for supremacy in the Saudi Pro League is reaching a dramatic climax, and the rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Ivan Toney has suddenly taken center stage. As Al-Nassr and Al-Ahli chase the title and their star forwards compete for the Golden Boot, a stunning development has shaken the race.
A decisive moment arrived during a heated derby clash that could reshape both the scoring charts and the championship battle. What happened that night did more than help a team climb the table; it also placed serious pressure on Ronaldo’s pursuit of a historic individual milestone. Now, with the season entering its final stretch, the question is growing louder: could Ronaldo’s dream of another Golden Boot be slipping away?
The drama unfolded at the packed Alinma Stadium in Jeddah, where Al-Ahli defeated Al-Ittihad 3-1 in a fiery Sea Derby that carried enormous implications for the title race. The breakthrough came midway through the first half when Toney finished a sweeping attacking move. Brazilian winger Galeno burst down the left flank and delivered a precise low cross into the box. Waiting inside the six-yard area was the English striker, who calmly tapped the ball into the net to give Al-Ahli the lead.
The visitors fought back early in the second half. After Steven Bergwijn was brought down inside the penalty area, former Liverpool midfielder Fabinho stepped up to convert from the spot, leveling the match. But the parity lasted only a few minutes. Former Manchester City star Riyad Mahrez restored Al-Ahli’s advantage just before the hour mark with a clinical left-footed strike.
Late in the game, substitute Feras Al-Buraikan capitalized on a defensive mistake to seal the 3-1 victory. The win extended Al-Ahli’s remarkable form, marking its 13th victory in the last 14 league matches and temporarily pushing the club to the top of the Saudi Pro League table, just ahead of Al-Nassr.
The moment that rewrote the record books
While the derby victory grabbed headlines, the significance of Toney’s opening goal ran much deeper. With that strike, the England international reached 24 league goals for the season, strengthening his position at the top of the Golden Boot standings. Ronaldo, by comparison, currently sits on 22 goals, placing him behind his rival with only nine matches remaining.
But the milestone did not stop there. The Englishman’s goal also ensured that he had now produced 29 goal contributions in the league this season, combining 24 goals and five assists. That tally surpassed a long-standing benchmark set by Syrian striker Omar Al Somah, who had recorded 28 goal contributions during the 2015-16 campaign.
In other words, Toney now holds the record for the most goal contributions in a single Saudi Pro League season for Al-Ahli, breaking a mark that had stood for ten years. The achievement highlights just how transformative the 29-year-old has been since arriving in the Middle East.
Ivan Toney now has the most goal contributions per season (29 G/A) of any Al Ahli player in a single season ⚽️
The implications of Toney’s form extend far beyond club records. They strike directly at Ronaldo’s own pursuit of history. The Portuguese icon entered the season chasing an unprecedented feat: becoming the first European player to win the Saudi Pro League Golden Boot in three consecutive seasons.
Ronaldo’s dominance in recent years made that possibility seem almost inevitable. He captured the award in 2024 with 31 goals and repeated the feat in 2025 with 30 goals. Even at the age of 41, his scoring record remains extraordinary.
Over the last three seasons, Ronaldo has consistently produced numbers that rival those of the world’s best strikers. However, Toney’s relentless scoring has now turned what once looked like a comfortable path into a tense and unpredictable duel.
Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri says that ‘you never know’ in football, but insists that his side’s only goal this season is to finish in the Champions League positions, not a Scudetto fight with their city rivals, Inter.
Milan, currently second in Serie A after 27 matches, will take on the table-topping Inter in San Siro in a highly-anticipated Derby della Madonnina on Sunday evening.
If the Nerazzurri claim victory, they will move 13 points clear at the top of the Serie A table with 10 league matches of the season left to go. If Milan win, they will cut the deficit to seven points, a margin they have previously chased down, albeit against Lazio in the 1998-99 season.
Allegri previews Milan derby: ‘It’s always special’
Allegri sat down for his pre-match press conference on Saturday ahead of tomorrow’s crunch match. The Rossoneri head coach discussed his side’s form, the reality of Milan’s situation in Serie A and the ‘special, special’ feeling heading into a derby.
“The derby is always a special, special game. It’s beautiful to play and experience. It will definitely be a great evening of sport. But, the three points in the derby are worth the same as the three points next Sunday,” Allegri said (via TMW).
“It’s important to pick up points tomorrow, it won’t be easy against a strong team. We know the importance of the game but we will try to get a result.
“The only thing we have left to do is play it, then we’ll see how it ends. After the game we’ll see if we’re left at -10, at -7 or at -13. Regardless of tomorrow’s result, we know that 57 points isn’t enough to achieve our goal, which is to return to playing in the Champions League. Our schedule is tough and we’re still a few victories away.”
Allegri went on to provide a medical update ahead of Sunday’s derby: “Everyone is fine apart from Gabbia, Loftus-Cheek and Gimenez, who will soon be with the team,” he said. “Bartesaghi trained yesterday, I’ll decide if he or Estupinan, who’s doing very well, will play tomorrow.”
Looking at tomorrow’s opposition, Allegri said: “Inter score goals in lots of different ways. They’re good shooters from outside the box, they have great strength inside it. It depends on who plays tomorrow, if Dumfries will play. They have a lot of different solutions in front of goal. We also have great qualities to be able to play a good game and score against Inter.”
There have been reports this week linking Allegri with a big move to Real Madrid. For now, he insists that he is focused on the task at hand with the Rossoneri.
“I’m linked to Milan until 2027. My future is tomorrow. I’m fine at Milan and I’m very happy. We only started the journey in July. The club is working for the future. But until we reach our goal, we will have to stay focused on the present. We haven’t achieved anything yet.”
Allegri was also asked what he makes of the recent booing that Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni has been subjected to following his involvement in the sending off of Pierre Kalulu during last month’s Derby d’Italia.
BARI, ITALY – AUGUST 16: Alessandro Bastoni of Inter during Pre-Season Friendly match between FC Internazionale and Olympiacos FC at Stadio San Nicola on August 16, 2025 in Bari, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
“I don’t want to make any appeals. All I can say is that the Milan fans will have to help us and support us as they have done from day one. The thing they will have to do first and foremost is support Milan.”
Allegri was asked if he thinks Milan will be able to catch Inter if they win on Sunday. He said: “You never know what happens in football. In the meantime, we’ll just play tomorrow. I don’t know if we’ll re-open the race for the Scudetto, but we’re five wins away from the Champions League, so if we win tomorrow, we’ll be missing one less.”
Milan have had a full week to prepare for Sunday’s derby, while Inter have only had a matter of days given their midweek involvement in the Coppa Italia.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: Nicolo’ Barella of FC Internazionale is challenged by Adrien Rabiot of AC Milan during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Allegri was asked if he feels he has had too much time to prepare compared to Cristian Chivu and his team.
“Let’s see how it goes. Puulisic is growing in terms of his condition, Leao as well, Estupinan also on a mental level. The guys are all fine. Fullkrug is also doing better. He played for a month suffering with his toe, now he’s better too. Rabiot was stopped through suspension, Jashari’s growing in condition. We’ll play and hope to get a result tomorrow.”
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The Mexico international has had a mixed career in recent times, but overall he looks like he could be a good option to strengthen Leeds’ forward line.
It remains to be seen if Gimenez will definitely be on the move, but he hasn’t been entirely convincing for Milan, so probably could be someone who’s realistically available in the near future.
Santiago Gimenez transfer could be worth the gamble for Leeds United
Gimenez has a career total of 99 goals for club and country, with his best form coming during a spell with Feyenoord.
The 24-year-old has just seven goals in 30 games for Milan in two seasons with the club, though he previously impressed with 65 goals in 105 appearances while he was in the Netherlands.
Gimenez also has a fairly underwhelming total of six goals in 46 caps for the Mexican national team, so it remains to be seen how he’d get on in the Premier League.
LUFC do need a striker, however, and can’t afford to be too picky, so if this deal can be done on the cheap it could end up being decent business just to strengthen the depth in Daniel Farke’s side.
Former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour has made it clear that Gabriel Jesus seems likely to leave the Emirates Stadium, and that he’d need replacing.
The Brazil international previously made a great start to life with the Gunners when he joined from Manchester City in the summer of 2022, but the move hasn’t really worked out for him.
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In more recent times, Jesus has struggled to stay fit and has also not made that much of an impact when he has been on the pitch.
Parlour now thinks Jesus will surely be leaving soon in order to get more playing time, though the pundit feels that would leave Arsenal a bit short of options in attack.
Ray Parlour on Gabriel Jesus’ Arsenal future
Discussing the Jesus situation and Arsenal’s depth up front, Parlour made it clear that when he was at the club they’d have had four strikers in their squad.
“I think Jesus might leave at the end of the season, he is at that age where he wants to be playing week in, week out,” Parlour told the Metro.
“We could lose him. We had four strikers when I played. That’s what I don’t understand. (Regardless of Jesus leaving), bring in another one anyway. That can give the other options a lift because they see the standard being set.”
Julian Alvarez to replace Gabriel Jesus at Arsenal?
Parlour then specifically named Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez as an ideal option to come in up front at Arsenal.
Alvarez is surely better than Jesus, but if Arsenal want someone to come in who can definitely give them an upgrade on Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz, then there’s surely someone else out there who’d represent better value for money.
Discussing Alvarez, Parlour told the Metro: “For me, Alvarez would be a great addition to the squad. There will always be people coming and going in the summer because it’s a big squad and they can’t keep everyone happy.
“But Alvarez would be a fantastic option to have with his pace and what we saw at Man City.
“It was always going to be difficult for him playing with Erling Haaland there but when he did start and when he did play, he was always lively.
“He’s a young man too, so if he’s available it’s a yes for me. When know how Arteta likes to work with young players to make them better so I think it would be a great addition, definitely.”
Arsenal are reportedly interested in a potential transfer swoop for Paris Saint-Germain attacking midfielder Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
The Georgia international has not quite been at his best so far this season, contributing a total of eight goals and six assists across 30 games in Ligue 1 and the Champions League.
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It seems Kvaratskhelia is now open to leaving PSG and this has Arsenal on alert and eyeing up a potential transfer, according to a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes.
Arsenal could do with someone like Kvaratskhelia as an upgrade on inconsistent duo Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, though it’s also not clear if this deal would be worth the risk right now after the former Napoli man’s slump in form.
The pros and cons of Arsenal signing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
The 25-year-old surely has it in him to get back to his best again, and perhaps a change of scene is what he needs, with Mikel Arteta often doing well to improve players at Arsenal.
Kvaratskhelia would surely not come cheap, and it’s not often we see Arsenal going all out with a big-money move for one player, with Declan Rice the only real exception in their history.
All in all, there might be some logic in splashing the cash on Kvaratskhelia, but the uncertainty of moving for a player struggling for form in a weaker league certainly loses the deal points as far as we’re concerned.
Michael Kayode is having an impressive 2025-26 campaign in the Premier League with Brentford, is in contention for a potential Italy national team call-up and has now caught the eye of Juventus according to the latest reports in Italy.
The 21-year-old right-back has played a key role for under Keith Andrews in 2025-26, starting at right-back in 28 of a possible 29 Premier League matches this season after joining Brentford from Fiorentina on loan with an option to buy in January last year.
Kayode and his Brentford teammates currently find themselves in seventh place in the Premier League table, fighting for a spot in Europe despite being tipped for relegation by many at the beginning of the season.
There have also been suggestions that Kayode could be in line for a call up to the Italy national team squad in the near future. The former Fiorentina man has represented the Azzurri at U18, U19 and U21 levels and has eight caps for the latter.
Kayode was also among the players that Italy’s delegation chief Gianluigi Buffon singled out for praise in a recent interview ahead of the World Cup play-off campaign at the end of the month.
“A big surprise has been Palestra; he’s shown something extraordinary. Another one who’s doing well is Kayode. Vergara, too, definitely catches your attention,” said Buffon.
Reports Juventus interested in Italy prospect Kayode
BRENTFORD, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 25: Michael Kayode of Brentford dries the ball with a towel before taking a long throw-in during the Premier League match between Brentford and Liverpool at Gtech Community Stadium on October 25, 2025 in Brentford, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Now, according to reports from Tuttosport, Kayode is also of interest to Juventus ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Turin-based outlet lauds Kayode as a player who could star at right-back for the Old Lady ‘for the next 10 years’. Saturday’s report claims that Juve will continue to monitor the 21-year-old’s progress with great interest for the rest of the season.
Kayode is also capable of playing at right-back in a back four and as a wing-back in a three or five-man defence, which would make him a decent fit for Bianconeri head coach Luciano Spalletti, who does like to occasionally tinker with his system.
Tuttosport claims that Juventus would have to pay around €30m to snatch the Italy talent away from Brentford, who paid a fee in the region of €18m to activate the option to buy in Kayode’s original loan contract.
Kayode also spent four years in Juventus’s youth academy as a youngster.
Christian Vieri believes that four Milan players would get into Inter’s best starting XI ahead of the Derby della Madonnina between the two sides in Serie A on Sunday evening.
The former Italy striker, who scored 103 Serie A goals for Inter and also had a brief spell with Milan immediately after, spoke in-depth with La Gazzetta dello Sport ahead of Sunday’s derby.
Ahead of kick-off, the Nerazzurri have a 10-point advantage at the top of the Serie A table, and should they win on Sunday, they will go 13 points clear of their city rivals with 10 league games of the season left to play.
Vieri believes that Inter are well on their way to claiming their 21st Serie A title, regardless of the result in tomorrow’s derby.
“No Inter player wants to say anything because they don’t want to bring any bad luck, but with 10 games to go, there would be no team capable of catching up with this side, which practically always wins against the smaller sides by the way.” Vieri told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
If Milan were to win on Sunday, they would move within seven points of Inter with 10 games left to go.
Vieri believes that Cristian Chivu’s side have already created a large enough buffer to see off the Rossoneri threat, though: “I don’t do ifs, buts and maybes. The seven point margin would still count for a lot.” he said.
“Inter would have to lose three and Milan would always have to win. Also, Inter have to play against Atalanta, Roma and Como. Milan against Napoli, Juventus and Atalanta, even Sassuolo. I think we’re there aren’t we?”
Which Milan players would start for Inter?
ITALY – JANUARY 18: Rafael Leao reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 18, 2026 in San Siro, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
When Vieri spoke to La Gazzetta dello Sport ahead of the derby this time last year, he said that Inter would probably be keen to sign Rafael Leao from Milan and that Milan would probably like to sign eight or nine players from Inter.
“Today, I’d say Leao, Modric, Rabiot and Maignan. And it would be seven or eight Inter guys. Lautaro’s injury takes him out of it.”
Vieri was also asked how ‘amazed’ he has been by the form of the 40-year-old Luka Modric following his move to Milan from Real Madrid over the summer.
“Only in Italy is there as much talk about a player’s age,” he said. “He was at Real and was playing last year, it’s not as if it was 10 years ago. If I were Milan, I would renew his contract. I’d give him a five-year deal.”
The upcoming Derby della Madonnina between Milan and Inter in Serie A on Sunday evening is expected to set a new league record for matchday takings according to the latest reports in Italy.
Sunday’s Serie A headliner will be the battle of second-placed Milan and the league leading Inter, who have a 10-point advantage healing over their city rivals ahead of kick-off. Should Cristian Chivu’s side claim victory, they will move 13 points clear at the top of the table with 10 league games left to go.
There has been much anticipation for Sunday’s derby, which, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, will set a new record for the highest ever takings on a Serie A matchday.
How much will Sunday’s derby between Milan and Inter bring in?
ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: A general view of the stadium ahead of the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in San Siro, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
According to Saturday’s report, the upcoming derby is set to bring in more than €8.7m in revenues, which will surpass the previous record of €8.65m that was set during the first leg of this fixture earlier this season.
A sold-out capacity crowd in excess of 75,500 will be in attendance in San Siro tomorrow.
As calculated by Calcio e Finanza, here are the five most financially profitable Serie A matches ever:
AC Milan v Inter, 8 March 2026, San Siro – €8,700,000 (75,500 expected spectators)
Inter v AC Milan, 23 November 2025, San Siro – €8,649,494 (75,562 spectators)
Inter vs. Juventus, 14 February 2026, San Siro – €8,587,129 (75,515 spectators)
Inter v AC Milan, 22 September 2024, San Siro – €7,626,430 (75,366 spectators)
Inter vs. Juventus, 27 October 2024, San Siro – €7,614,585 (75,056 spectators)
Former Rossoneri star Kaka has named the one Inter player he would like to ‘steal’ for Milan and has no doubts as to who will have the biggest impact in the upcoming Derby della Madonnina: ‘Modric will make the difference’.
Ahead of the Derby della Madonnina between Milan and Inter in San Siro this coming Sunday, Kaka sat down for an in-depth interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, discussing all things Rossoneri, Brazil and the upcoming World Cup.
Ahead of Sunday’s highly-anticipated derby, Inter sit at the top of the Serie A table with a 10-point advantage over their next closest rivals, Milan.
Kaka insists that with 11 league matches of the 2025-26 season left to play, Milan still have everything left to play for.
“We’re 10 points off them, but I will say that it can be done, and in terms of the Scudetto as well. Of course it looks like a very difficult task looking at the standings, but I’ve seen a lot in football and I will repeat, I believe in it.”
Which Inter player would Kaka steal for Milan?
AUGUST 31: Ricardo Kaka looks on before the Serie A match between AC Milan and AS Roma at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on August 31, 2018 in San Siro, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Kaka was asked which Inter player he would pick to steal and have play for the Rossoneri instead.
He said: “Lautaro, but since he’s injured I’ll go with Thuram.”
And when asked which Milan player he thinks will have the biggest influence in this upcoming derby, Kaka said: “Modric, without a doubt. He’ll make the difference with his experience but also his class. I also like Pulisic a lot and there’s always Leao.”
Evan Ferguson’s career at Roma is likely over, as the Republic of Ireland international is expected to miss the remainder of the 2025-26 season through injury according to reports in Italy.
It has been a miserable few seasons for the 21-year-old Brighton loanee, who had been tipped for very top during his teenage years in the Premier League.
His 2023-24 campaign was curtailed with a cruciate ligament tear, which also affected his start to the 2024-25 season. He also suffered an ankle injury later that season, before being sent on a fairly underwhelming loan spell to West Ham.
He had hoped to relaunch his career in Serie A with Roma, who brought him on loan with a €40m option to buy from Brighton during the summer transfer window.
However, despite the occasional glimpse of promise during his time with the Rossoneri, scoring five goals and providing two assists from 22 appearances across Serie A and the Europa League, Ferguson has struggled to win over Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini and has also continued to do battle with ankle injuries.
Ferguson surgery brings end of Roma career
Despite scoring twice and providing an assist in a run of three consecutive Serie A starts over the new-year period, Ferguson has missed most of 2026 with a new ankle injury, which has kept him out of the last seven Serie A matches.
According to recent reports, Ferguson has recently returned to the UK for a consultation with a specialist, and now, according to updates from Corriere dello Sport, the decision has been made for the 21-year-old to have surgery.
According to Saturday’s report, Ferguson will have the operation in the UK at some stage next week and this is expected to bring the end of his 2025-26 season.
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 10: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma is injured during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on January 10, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
This is also likely to spell the end of Ferguson’s Roma days, as the Giallorossi are extremely unlikely to activate the buy option in their loan agreement with Brighton.
Liverpool’s sporting directors are reportedly ready to launch an offer of around €80m for the transfer of Nottingham Forest central defender Murillo.
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Murillo is also a target for Chelsea, as we’ve previously reported, but after his superb form for Forest it makes sense that other big clubs could also be keen on the Brazilian.
Liverpool are now being strongly linked with Murillo by Fichajes, with the Reds looking for the 23-year-old as a potential replacement for Ibrahima Konate.
The report states that the Reds are accelerating their efforts to sign Murillo due to the fact that Konate looks set to leave as he nears the end of his contract.
Murillo looks ideal to replace Ibrahima Konate
Murillo has shown his quality in the Premier League, even if Forest as a whole haven’t been at their best this season, and his age and price tag makes him a strong fit for LFC.
Using our Transfer Fit rating system, we’ve scored Murillo as a 19/25 match for Liverpool’s needs, even if he wouldn’t come cheap.
Murillo
TOTAL SCORE: 19/25
Transfer fee
***
Performance
****
Achievements
**
Career phase
*****
Squad need
*****
While he’s lacking the experience of playing for a top club and winning silverware, he has at least shown what he can do against Premier League forwards.
Chelsea could also surely do with Murillo due to their issues in defence this season, with Wesley Fofana struggling with both fitness and form, while the likes of Trevoh Chalobah and Tosin Adarabioyo not quite looking like they should be starting regularly for a top four club.
Former Arsenal star Alex Iwobi has revealed the chaotic way his exit from the Emirates Stadium was handled as he rushed into a move to Everton.
The Nigeria international hadn’t quite been a regular starter for the Gunners towards the end of his time there, despite showing a lot of promise as a youngster.
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Iwobi came up through Arsenal’s academy and started well for the north Londoners, and he’s since gone on to have a fine Premier League career, particularly with current club Fulham.
Iwobi recalls that he was given extra holiday by former Arsenal manager Unai Emery, but then ended up being called by his agent and by Marco Silva during his time on the beach with his parents.
Alex Iwobi on how he ended up leaving Arsenal
Speaking in the video clip above, the 29-year-old said he didn’t have much time to think about his move to Everton.
He very quickly ended up staying in a very dark and lonely hotel in Liverpool, and it seems he struggled with homesickness after leaving London for the first time.
Looking back, Iwobi says he could perhaps have asked more questions about what life at Everton would be like.
Still, Iwobi has gone on to have a fine Premier League career, now becoming a key player for Silva at Fulham.
Arsenal fans will still have plenty of fondness for their former player, but it’s a shame that his time at the Emirates Stadium couldn’t have been handled a bit better.
Some Gooners might even feel Iwobi’s career since then has shown that he could have at least been a decent backup player for the club.
Chelsea are showing a surprise interest in signing former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez from Al Hilal this summer, as first reported via the Daily Briefing.
My understanding is that Nunez is highly likely to leave the Saudi Pro League club this summer, perhaps on an initial loan deal.
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Nunez had a mixed spell at Liverpool, so might not be every fan’s cup of tea, though he did manage 25 Premier League goals in his time in England, picking up one top flight title in the process.
Sources on potential Darwin Nunez to Chelsea transfer
“Chelsea have liked Nunez for a while and still see him as someone to add spark and depth up front.”
It remains to be seen if CFC will go ahead and make Nunez a priority, but the interest in the 26-year-old is there, and it looks like he’ll be available.
An issue, however, is his high wage of £400,000 a week with Al Hilal, though he may be ready to accept a pay cut in order to get out of Saudi Arabia.
As you can see below, Nunez fits the bill as a relatively proven striker, which is something Chelsea need, so even if he’s far from the best in the world he’s surely an upgrade on the struggling Liam Delap.
Darwin Nunez
TOTAL SCORE: 12/25
Transfer fee
**
Performance
*
Achievements
***
Career phase
**
Squad need
****
However, he is in poor form and not exactly young, so it’s hard to see him suddenly improving a great deal as he approaches his late 20s.
Being available on loan, or possibly on the cheap, bumps up his score slightly, but there’s also uncertainty about precisely how that deal could be structured.
Do you think Nunez would be a good fit for Chelsea? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Wrexham play against Chelsea in the fifth round of the FA Cup during the 2025/2026 season. Here’s everything to know for viewers in the United States, including the date, venue, kickoff time, and details on TV coverage or live streaming.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Mansfield Town vs Arsenal on US television and via legal streaming:
A spot in the next round of the FA Cup is on the line as Arsenal welcome Mansfield Town in a classic David-vs-Goliath matchup. The visitors arrive from EFL League One, where they currently sit 16th, while the Gunners enter the clash riding high at the top of the Premier League and carrying serious expectations to lift the historic trophy.
Arsenalare heavy favorites on paper, but cup competitions are known for dramatic upsets, giving Mansfield a chance to chase a memorable result against one of England’s strongest sides—so don’t miss this intriguing FA Cup showdown.
More details on how to watch
With ESPN+, you can watch Mansfield Town vs Arsenal and tons more soccer games. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, Apple, Android, and Amazon Fire devices, Roku, Samsung Smart TV, Chromecast, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Oculus Go.
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If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full ESPN+ soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
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If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.
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Dusan Vlahovic is close to being back in contention for Juventus selection, but Jonathan David is expected to lead the line when Pisa visit the Allianz Stadium in Serie A on Saturday evening.
The Bianconeri are without a win over their last four Serie A matches, but were able to fight back to claim a 3-3 draw away against Roma last weekend in a huge match in the race for the Champions League positions.
The Bianconeri find themselves in sixth place ahead of kick-off against Pisa, one point off the fifth-placed Como and four behind Roma in the top four.
Luciano Spalletti’s biggest toss-up in terms of his personnel is in goal: Either Michele Di Gregorio or Mattia Perin could start, but pre-match reports indicate that it will be the former Monza stopper starting against Pisa, coming back in after spending the last two matches on the bench.
Juventus are not expected to make any changes in defence: Pierre Kalulu, Gleison Bremer, Lloyd Kelly and Andrea Cambiaso are the preferred options. Captain Manuel Locatelli is back from suspension and is intended to start in midfield alongside Khpehren Thuram with Teun Koopmeiners likely to drop to the bench.
Vlahovic is back in training with the Juventus squad after having surgery on his adductor, which has required more than three months of rehabilitation, but Spalletti has confirmed that the Serbian is instead targeting a return against Udinese next weekend.
David is expected to lead the line, with support likely to come from Francisco Conceicao, Weston McKennie and Kenan Yildiz.
Pisa have still only won once across their 27 Serie A matches this season and have lost their last three in a row approaching Saturday’s match against Juventus. Bologna beat them 1-0 at the Garibaldi on Monday night.
Filip Stojilkovic could return to the attack for Oscar Hiljemark’s side, as could Felipe Loyola in midfield. Arturo Calabresi is still unavailable in defence through injury.
Kick-off is due at 19.45 GMT.
Juventus vs. Pisa: Probable line-ups
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Weston McKennie of Juventus FC celebrates with teammate Kenan Yıldız after scoring the third goal of his team during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Juventus FC head coach Luciano Spalletti looks on during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Como 1907 at on February 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Tonight’s game will be available to watch live in the UK exclusively on DAZN. Supporters in the USA are able to tune in via Paramount+.
Join us for all the pre-match build-up, in-game coverage and post-match reactions on the Football Italia Liveblog.
Already has three goals, Milan win if he scores. The last time in the first leg … Record takings in Serie A tomorrow
Vieri: ‘Inter, what strength Pio has, give him crosses’
The interview
Spalletti stays at Juve
The signing of the renewal after the game against Pisa
Napoli get going now, here’s De Bruyne again. Toro score at the end
Elmas and Alisson on target (2-1)
Conte +8 above fifth place
Corriere dello Sport
A derby for Pio
Inter do the maths | Beat Milan to go +13 ahead: Chivu reserves the 21st title
Esposito: Time for the Scudetto
In tandem with Thuram tomorrow, looking for his eighth goal of the season. Cristian flying: 43 points from 15 games. Rabiot spurs on Pulisic and Leao
EmozioNapoli
Won 2-1 against Torino: -1 behind Allegri
Second consecutive victory for Conte, who close in on Milan and recover two of their Fab 4: Anguissa and De Bruyne. Alisson Santos score: Elmas doubles. Casadei’s goal from a header useless at the end
Spalletti and Juve, renewal getting closer
Taking on Pisa today (19.45)
Lucio: ‘I’ve already spoken with the club. I’m going to live in the same apartment building as Comolli and Chiellini’. Vlahovic out, Yildiz will be there
Dybala out for a month and a half
Operation on his knee
The Roma star has a partial tear of the meniscus. Malen voted player of the month for February
Tuttosport
‘In Spalletti, I see Lippi again’
Interview with Ravanelli
One of the Champions League heroes from ‘96 won over by the Bianconeri coach: ‘He could start a new cycle at Juve, like Marcello did. He’s the right man: Some things need to be fixed, but he offers great football. Me, the lawyer and Gorbachev’. In Pisa this evening: Yildiz starts. Lucio’s joke about the renewal: ‘Now I live in the same apartment building as Comolli’
Napoli, Santos in paradise, D’Aversa doesn’t pull off miracles
The Brazilian opens, Elmas doubles. Casadei goal but only at the end: Toro beaten
The Granata pay the price for their limitations and fragility: Paleari mistake for 1-0, defence collapsed on the second goal. The reaction was too late, but Adams wasted the chance for 2-0. Conte celebrates going +8 clear of fifth palace and the returns of Anguissa and De Bruyne. Even the Maradona chants: ‘Urbano Cairo you need to sell’
From Retegui to Guler, the Derby that could have been
Milan-Inter tomorrow
Tudor, what a flop. Tottenham thinking about Motta!
Three games, three defeats
Como, Europe to keep Paz. Villa looking at Caprile
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is reportedly working on signing his fellow countryman Sandro Tonali for the Gunners.
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The Newcastle United and Italy midfielder has shone during his time in the Premier League, and it’s easy to see why he’s being linked with bigger clubs.
According to Tuttosport, there is interest from Arsenal, but also from Manchester United, with Tonali surely someone who Newcastle could find hard to keep hold of.
The report suggests, however, that Newcastle could command as much as €100m for Tonali, and that seems like far too much for Arsenal to be paying for someone they arguably don’t need that much.
Still, AFC seem to be pursuing Tonali if Tuttosport are to be believed, with Berta driving the interest, and with the player’s agent recently watching the north London giants’ win over Brighton.
Sandro Tonali to Arsenal transfer doesn’t tick all the boxes
The transfer fee of €100m is far too high for someone who wouldn’t necessarily start over Declan Rice or Martin Zubimendi, while he’s also not even a player at the stage of his career where he could improve much further.
The 25-year-old may have won the Carabao Cup with Newcastle, but if Arsenal really want to elevate their current squad they would surely need an elite-level young player for the long term, or an immediate upgrade with more experience of winning the kind of big trophies they’re chasing.
Tonali isn’t either of those, so it will be interesting to see if this proves another miscalculation by Berta, with last summer’s signings like Viktor Gyokeres, Eberechi Eze, and Noni Madueke not being particularly convincing either.
From Newcastle’s point of view, they surely need to avoid another disruptive saga like the Alexander Isak to Liverpool story of last summer.
Keeping a key player like Tonali will be important to help Eddie Howe take this team forward, so they’ll hope their high asking price proves enough to ward off suitors.
Tottenham have reportedly already held talks with former Marseille and Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi after an awful start by Igor Tudor.
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The north London outfit are on an awful run of form, losing three out of three since Tudor replaced Thomas Frank less than a month ago.
Tudor is only at Spurs on an interim basis, but the Telegraph report that discussions are already taking place with De Zerbi as the club consider making a second managerial change in the space of a month.
De Zerbi impressed a great deal during his time in the Premier League with Brighton, so could be ideal to help Tottenham out of their current predicament as relegation becomes a very real danger.
Roberto De Zerbi makes sense for Tottenham, but would he take the job?
De Zerbi might well be ideal for Tottenham, but would the Italian tactician necessarily go for this opportunity now with the club in such a dire state?
Spurs are on a run of five consecutive defeats in the Premier League, leaving them just a point above the relegation zone.
It would be a big gamble for De Zerbi to take the job now when there’s so little time to turn this situation around.
And if THFC were to go down to the Championship, it would surely only be even harder for them to convince a coach of De Zerbi’s calibre to take over.
Glenn Hoddle has hinted at Tottenham return
Meanwhile, former Tottenham manager Glenn Hoddle has hinted he’d be ready to return to the club.
This would be a slightly left-of-field appointment since Hoddle’s been out of the game for so long, but it might just be the kind of short-term move that does enough to lift the mood and rally the players to put up more of a fight in their final few games of the season.
Manchester City attacking midfielder Phil Foden is reportedly still likely to be offered a new contract despite his poor form and possible doubts over making England’s World Cup squad.
Foden has been out of sorts for some time now, though of course he has generally been one of City’s best players during the Pep Guardiola era.
The 25-year-old is a classy performer on his day, combining skill and intelligence to make him a great all-rounder in a variety of attacking roles.
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Still, Foden will have just a year left on his contract this summer, even if the Athletic suggest it’s still inconceivable that he wouldn’t be offered a new one.
Foden is surely coming up to a crucial moment, though, as he needs to up his game to show he deserves good renewal terms, as well as a place in Thomas Tuchel’s squad to go to North America this summer.
Can Phil Foden turn things around for Manchester City and England?
With 110 goals in 357 games for City, Foden has played a big part for the club, picking up major honours like six Premier League titles, the Champions League, two FA Cups, and four League Cups along the way.
Foden has arguably been a little less impressive for England, with just four goals in 47 caps, but if used properly he could surely make an impact at a major tournament.
For the moment, though, Foden has just ten goals and five assists so far this season, and, crucially, no goals and only one assist in his last 17 appearances in all competitions.
City really need Foden to rediscover his best form as soon as possible as they look to stay close to Arsenal in the Premier League title race, but it’s hard to see where any kind of miraculous comeback is going to come from right now.
Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana is now looking less likely to join Trabzonspor permanently after his loan spell there this season.
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The Cameroon international has flopped at Man Utd and will surely be sold by the club at some point, particularly after the fine form of Senne Lammens since he moved to Old Trafford last summer.
Still, as reported by the Manchester Evening News, there could be issues with Onana making his loan with Trabzonspor permanent as the Turkish side can’t afford his asking price.
Andre Onana future becoming clearer due to United demands
It now surely seems likely that Trabzonspor won’t be able to spend the kind of money required on Onana, who could cost as much as £43m.
As quoted by the MEN report, Trabzonspor vice-president Zeyyat Kafkas has explained the challenges for his club in signing Onana permanently.
“As the figure fromManchester Unitedfor the purchase of Andre Onana is in the range of €45-50m, our president has sincerely informed the community in line with Trabzonspor’s realities,” he toldGunebakıs.
“I don’t think this information affected Onana at all. Because Onana’s thinking is that if it’s not England, he wants to continue at a club in Europe.
“His family thinks the same way. The president also wanted to explain Trabzonspor’s reality. However, if the conditions change, the situation changes.”
As Kafkas suggests, this now surely paves the way for Onana to seal another move, with the 29-year-old perhaps already looking for other options out there for him in Europe.
It will be interesting to see if anyone comes in for him, though, as MUFC surely need to adjust their asking price to something more realistic if they want to offload him.
Andrew Robertson insists he does not feel like he has a point to prove at Liverpool after starring in their 3-1 FA Cup win at Wolves. The long-serving Reds full-back drilled home a brilliant opener at Molineux then quickly teed up Mohamed Salah, before Curtis Jones’ effort rendered Hwang Hee-chan’s late goal a mere consolation. […]
Andy Robertson’s stunning second-half strike led Liverpool to a 3-1 win over Wolves in the FA Cup fifth round. The left-back’s first Liverpool goal from outside the box got things started after the break, before Mohamed Salah and Curtis Jones made sure of their progression at Molineux, where they lost in the Premier League on […]
Real Madrid could spend a fortune on signings this summer, potentially including Ballon d’Or winner Rodri.
Real Madrid’s performances this season have fallen short of expectations, especially considering the high standards typically associated with a club so accustomed to excellence. As a result, they could spend significant money this summer to strengthen the squad, including a possible move for 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri.
“The first €100 million that Real Madrid want to spend this summer is on Rodrigo Hernandez and Schlotterbeck,” journalist Alberto Pereiro said this week on Radioestadio Noche on Onda Cero, as cited by Mundo Deportivo.
Rodri has been linked with Real Madrid for years. His performances at Manchester City since 2019 have been outstanding, turning him into a key figure in the club’s successes, including the UEFA Champions League title in 2023. That, combined with his leading role in Spain’s UEFA Euro triumph, earned him the Ballon d’Or in 2024.
However, things have been difficult for the midfielder since then. During the 2024-25 season, Rodri played only eight matches for the Citizens due to a serious knee injury that kept him out for eight months. In the current campaign, although he has featured more regularly, he has still had to deal with knee and muscular issues.
Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League.
Schlotterbeck, the other major target for Real Madrid
In addition to a top-level central midfielder like Rodri, Real Madrid know they will also need defenders. The futures of Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba remain uncertain, while Dean Huijsen’s performances have not been entirely convincing. That could lead Los Blancos to target high-quality center backs ahead of next season.
Nico Schlotterbeck fits that profile. The German defender is only 26 years old, suggesting he still has many years at the elite level ahead of him, while already having built significant experience with Borussia Dortmund. He has played more than 150 matches there over the past four seasons and has also become a regular member of the Germany national team.
How much are Rodri and Schlotterbeck worth?
Reports indicate that Real Madrid are willing to allocate around $115 million to sign Rodri and Schlotterbeck. That figure, as impressive as it may seem, could still fall short of the combined market value of two players of their quality.
According to the specialized website Transfermarkt, Rodri is valued at €75 million and Schlotterbeck at €55 million, bringing their combined estimated value to roughly $150 million. However, the fact that both players are just one year away from becoming free agents could be a valuable negotiating tool for Real Madrid in potential talks with Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund.
Rodri of Manchester City applauds the fans after a Premier League match.
In the never-ending debate about soccer’s greatest players, the names of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo usually dominate every conversation. But one striker currently playing in the Premier League has unexpectedly inserted himself into the discussion, at least in one very specific area.
In the never-ending debate about soccer’s greatest players, the names of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo usually dominate every conversation. But one striker currently playing in the Premier League has unexpectedly inserted himself into the discussion, at least in one very specific area. At Fulham, Mexican forward Raul Jimenez has quietly built himself a worthy reputation in world soccer.
His confidence recently led him to make a bold claim: in one key statistical category, he believes he stands above both Messi and Ronaldo. The statement raised eyebrows across the soccer world. Yet when the numbers behind Jimenez’s record are examined, the comparison suddenly becomes much harder to dismiss.
Jimenez has become one of the most successful Mexican players ever to play in England. After making his mark with Wolverhampton and continuing his career with Fulham, the striker has established himself as a dependable presence in the Premier League.
The former academy product of Club America now holds the record for the most goals scored by a Mexican player in England, with 67 goals across his Premier League career. Beyond the raw numbers, his influence has been particularly evident during his time at Fulham. His leadership in attack and calm presence in crucial moments have made him a key figure at Craven Cottage.
This season alone, the 34-year-old has scored nine goals in all competitions, helping the club push toward the upper half of the league table. But it is not just his open-play goals that have drawn attention. Instead, a remarkable pattern has emerged whenever a referee points to the penalty spot.
The hidden record that sets Jimenez apart
While comparisons with Messi and Ronaldo usually focus on total goals or trophies, Jimenez’s advantage comes from a different category entirely. Since the beginning of his professional career, the Mexican striker has produced an extraordinary level of efficiency from the penalty spot.
Jimenez has an incredible 95.5 percent success record in official competitions since making his professional debut, scoring 42 penalties from 44 tries. His only two misses came under unique circumstances: one with the Mexican national team in a friendly against Uruguay, when goalkeeper Fernando Muslera saved his effort in 2018, and another during a high-pressure Europa League quarter-final against Sevilla while he was playing for Wolves.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF scores a free kick against Orlando City SC.
Aside from those two moments, the experienced veteran has been nearly flawless. By comparison, Messi has converted 114 penalties from 146 attempts, a success rate of 78.1 percent, while Ronaldo has scored 181 out of 217 penalties, producing an 83.4 percent success rate, according to statistics compiled by Transfermarkt.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr scores a penalty kick
Jimenez’s bold claim about the GOAT debate
Despite the intimidating reputations of Messi and Ronaldo, Jimenez has no hesitation in backing his own numbers. During an interview with FOX Sports, the Fulham striker was asked to compare his penalty-taking ability with several famous names, including Messi and Ronaldo.
The Mexican forward confidently placed himself at the top of the list. “Whether you like it or not, I have a better success rate than all of the ones you mentioned,” Jimenez said. “I don’t know if I’m the best in the world, but it’s something that characterizes me. I’ll stick with myself.”
The comment quickly sparked debate among fans on social media, with many surprised by the striker’s bold comparison with two of soccer’s greatest icons. Yet the numbers provide strong support for his claim.
Lionel Messi (left), Raul Jimenez (center), and Cristiano Ronaldo (right)
The future of Christian Pulisic at Milan could soon be shaped by a decision unfolding far from the pitch. With speculation swirling across Europe and persistent whispers from Real Madrid, attention has turned to the fate of the Rossoneri’s head coach, Massimiliano Allegri.
The future of Christian Pulisic at Milan could soon be shaped by a decision unfolding far from the pitch. With speculation swirling across Europe and persistent whispers from Real Madrid, attention has turned to the fate of the Rossoneri’s head coach, Massimiliano Allegri.
As the season approaches a decisive stretch, the American star and the rest of the squad are watching closely while the club weighs its next move. Reports in Italy suggest that Milan has already reached an internal conclusion regarding the future of its coach, while Allegri himself has quietly made clear what direction he prefers. Yet the situation remains layered with intrigue, especially as Madrid once again circles around the veteran tactician.
The speculation intensified after reports from Corriere dello Sport suggested that Real Madrid is again considering Allegri as a potential manager for the 2026-27 season. The Italian newspaper reported that the Spanish giant “could make an attempt to hire Allegri next season,” reviving a connection that has existed for years. This would not be the first time Madrid has pursued the Italian coach.
The Spanish club previously approached Allegri in both 2019 and 2021, when the idea of bringing the experienced Serie A strategist to the Santiago Bernabéu came close to becoming reality. In 2021, the deal reportedly progressed to an advanced stage. However, the tactitian ultimately decided against the move after a crucial meeting with Juventus president Andrea Agnelli, opting instead to return to Turin after two years away from coaching.
Massimiliano Allegri manager of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match.
Now, years later, the situation appears to be resurfacing again. Madrid’s leadership, led by club president Florentino Perez, continues to evaluate long-term options for the bench. The Spanish club’s recent managerial instability has only fueled the rumors. After replacing Xabi Alonso with Álvaro Arbeloa earlier this season, results have reportedly failed to meet expectations, opening the door for another change next summer.
Milan’s decision emerges
Despite the growing rumors from Spain, the situation inside Milan appears far clearer. According to multiple Italian outlets, including Corriere della Sera and La Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan is preparing to offer Allegri a contract extension that would keep him at the club until 2028, with an option for a further season.
The proposed deal would also increase his salary from $5.8 million to roughly $7 million per season, particularly if the club secures qualification for the UEFA Champions League. The decision reflects the Rossoneri’s belief that the experienced Italian boss should remain the central figure of the club’s long-term project. Club directors reportedly see continuity on the bench as vital for both recruitment and player development.
For a squad featuring key figures like Pulisic, managerial stability could prove decisive. Allegri’s return at San Siro has already restored structure and discipline to a team that struggled for consistency in previous seasons.
AC Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri consoles Alexis Saelemaekers during the Serie A match.
Allegri’s own preference comes to light
Equally important is the stance of the coach himself. According to several reports, Allegri’s preference is to remain at Milan, a club he considers both professionally and personally significant. The Livorno-born manager has repeatedly emphasized his satisfaction with the current project.
While the 58-year-old manager appears committed to staying, he reportedly has specific conditions for the next phase of the project. The coach wants a stronger voice in Milan’s transfer strategy, particularly as the club prepares for a potential return to the Champions League. Playing in Europe would require a deeper squad capable of competing every three days.
Thus, discussions about the long-term plan are expected only after the season concludes, when Allegri and Milan’s leadership will evaluate the squad and define their strategy for the future.
Christian Pulisic (left) and Massimiliano Allegri (right)
Napoli moved a step closer to securing Champions League football with a commanding home victory over Torino at the Maradona, with goals from Alisson Santos and Eljif Elmas doing the damage against a Torino side that threatened briefly but were ultimately well beaten.
Antonio Conte’s men were in the ascendancy from the off, and it took only seven minutes for the opener to arrive.
Alisson Santos, the Brazilian who has quickly become a fan favourite at the Maradona, collected a pass on the edge of the box and without hesitation rifled an unstoppable effort into the bottom left corner.
It was a goal of genuine quality, the kind that silences any doubts about whether a player belongs at this level.
Torino were not without their moments in the first half.
Vanja Milinkovic-Savic was called into action on a couple of occasions, producing a sensational stop to deny Nikola Vlasic from close range after a rebound fell invitingly on the edge of the box, while Duvan Zapata tested the defence with a powerful effort that cannoned to safety.
But Napoli’s control was evident, their passing crisp and purposeful as they managed the game comfortably until the break.
NAPLES, ITALY – MARCH 06: Alisson Santos of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his side first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Torino FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on March 06, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Napoli 2-1 Torino – Zambo Anguissa & De Bruyne return from injury
Zambo Anguissa made his comeback from injury at half-time, replacing Vergara in a moment that drew warm applause from a sell-out crowd, the Cameroonian’s return another welcome boost for a squad stretched thin by a lengthy injury list.
Kevin De Bruyne followed him off the bench in the 79th minute, the Belgian’s first involvement since October greeted with enormous excitement from the stands.
The points were sealed on 68 minutes when Elmas, having been played in smartly by Matteo Politano, jinked inside his marker and buried an unstoppable low drive into the bottom left corner. It was a goal of composure and conviction, and one that gave the result its definitive shape.
Torino did manage to deny Napoli a clean sheet, when Cesare Casadei scored with just two minutes left of normal time. However, the Partenopei managed to hold on to their lead and secure the three points.
Napoli’s fortress remains intact.
The Maradona is still an unbeaten turf in Serie A this season, and with De Bruyne and Anguissa edging closer to full fitness, Conte’s side are gathering momentum at exactly the right time.
Liverpool is hoping to sign Tyler Adams from Bournemouth, and they will face competition from Chelsea and Manchester United.
The 27-year-old United States International has done well in the top-flight, and he could be a useful acquisition for Liverpool. They need more physicality and defensive cover in the middle of the park, and Adams is well settled in the top flight. He could make an immediate impact and help Liverpool tighten up defensively.
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Liverpool learn asking price for Tyler Adams
According to a report from Fichajes, he is likely to cost around £40 million. Liverpool have the financial muscle to get the deal done, and it remains to be seen whether they follow up on their interest with an official proposal in the summer.
His arrival will help protect the defensive unit and allow the creative players to operate with more freedom. The opportunity to join Liverpool will be tempting for the player. He is at the peak of his career, and this is the right time for him to join an elite club.
Meanwhile, Chelsea and Manchester United need more depth in the midfield as well. Chelsea need someone who can support Moises Caicedo, and Manchester United will need to replace Casemiro. It will be interesting to see where the 27-year-old ends up eventually. He has the quality to play for a bigger club, and he will look to join a competitive team in the summer.
It will be interesting to see whether the cherries are willing to sanction his departure for a reasonable sum. He has been an important player for them, and he is one of their leaders in the dressing room.
West Ham United have reportedly secured the services of the former Arsenal youth goalkeeper Jack Tomlin.
The 16-year-old has been informed that he will not receive a scholarship from Arsenal and will now join the London rivals instead, as per Arsenal Insider. He will look to continue his development at West Ham, and it will be interesting to see if he can become a first-team player for them in the future.
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Jack Tomlin joins West Ham
Tomlin is highly rated in England, and he has a bright future. West Ham will be hoping to groom him into an important player for the future.
The 16-year-old was a part of the Arsenal under-18 squad, and he has now joined up with the West Ham under-18 side. He will further his career at the London Stadium now and establish himself as an important player for their youth team.
West Ham are looking to build for the future, and the 16-year-old could be an asset for the club in the long term.
There is no doubt that West Ham need more quality and depth in the goalkeeping department. Having said that, the 16-year-old is still nowhere near ready for the first team. They will need to groom him properly over the next few seasons before he can make his mark in the Premier League.
Time will tell whether Arsenal will regret the decision to let him leave. The young goalkeeper will certainly look to prove them wrong and make his mark in English football.
Meanwhile, West Ham continues its push for survival, and it will be interesting to see if it can preserve their status as a top-flight club.
Chelsea picked up a 4-1 win over Aston Villa recently, and Jadon Sancho left the onlookers disappointed with his unprofessional behaviour during the game.
The attacker was brought on after the hour mark to help turn the game in favour of the West Midlands club, but his first act after coming on was a conversation with his former teammate Cole Palmer. Furthermore, he was seen hugging it out with the Chelsea captain, Reece James, after the final whistle.
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Jadon Sancho slammed
Former Premier League scout Bryan King believes the conduct was unprofessional and that the player should focus more on helping his team than on pleasantries with rival players. Sancho has previously been on loan to Chelsea, and there is no doubt that he shares with his former teammates.
However, King believes that the attacker should have been more professional.
Former Aston Villa scout Bryan King, speaking toVilla News, said: “I thought it was very unprofessional, to be honest.
“The only explanation is that he forgot what colour shirt he had on.
“Saying hello to Cole Palmer when you come on as a substitute? He could have done that before the game if it was that important. It’s even worse because Villa were losing.
“It doesn’t matter who your friends are; you don’t do that until after the game. If you want to be with them and don’t want to be at Villa, why are you there? It’s just very unprofessional.
“I wouldn’t have thought it would go down well with the staff or the rest of the players. It isn’t a good sign and raises questions of where he will go at the end of the season.”
The move for the Premier League has simply not worked out, and a return to Germany could be ideal for him. He is very much at the peak of his powers, and he will get his career back on track with regular opportunities.
Sancho should look to join a club where he will get a defined role and regular opportunities. He has previously shown his quality in Germany, and he will be desperate to rediscover his form and confidence.
Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate continues to be linked with a move away from the club, and Real Madrid are hoping to sign him.
According to a report from BILD, the French international has decided to close the chapter with the Premier League club and move on. The development will be a huge boost for Madrid. It will be interesting to see if they can get the deal done.
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Ibrahima Konate wants out
Konate will be a free agent at the end of the season, and he’s unwilling to sign a new contract with Liverpool. Meanwhile, the report mentions that Liverpool is not too keen on Nico Schlotterbeck as his replacement. It will be interesting to see if the German defender is now prepared to sign a new contract with Borussia Dortmund.
He has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League in recent months. He will cost around €40 million, and Liverpool is not determined to get the deal done. It will be interesting to see if they decide to move for other players in the summer. They need more quality and depth in the central defensive unit.
That’s a medium rating, with LFC clearly in need of a new centre-back, and with the Germany international fairly reasonably priced, even if he’s not played a particularly high level or won a lot. He’ll also be 27 next season, so there might not be much room for further development.
Can Liverpool replace Konate properly?
It remains to be seen how they fill the void left by Konate in the summer. The French international has been a key player for the club since joining them, and he should prove to be an excellent acquisition for Real Madrid if they manage to secure his services. Signing a player of his quality for free could prove to be a masterstroke.
Liverpool will need to improve defensively if they want to fight for major trophies next season. Signing a quality central defender to replace the French International will be an absolute priority for them.
Inter Miami will visit DC United this Saturday in Major League Soccer, and all eyes are on Lionel Messi.
This Saturday, Inter Miami will play their third official match of the 2026 Major League Soccer season. It will be against DC United at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, a venue expected to be packed due to the huge anticipation surrounding Lionel Messi.
In the hours leading up to the match, the Eagles’ head coach was asked about his plan to stop the Argentine forward. “Lionel Messi is the best in the world. It’s impossible to truly stop him,” Rene Weiler said during a press conference, shared by journalist Jose Armando on X.
Despite acknowledging that stopping Messi is impossible, the coach then explained his plan to make things as difficult as possible for the Inter Miami star on the field. “The key is not giving him space and defending well as a team,” Weiler said.
However, the DC United boss emphasized that focusing only on Messi will not be enough to neutralize the Herons. “It’s not only him. It’s like the benchmark of the league, because they won the league last season. They have very good players and we have to be aware for 90 minutes,” the 52-year-old Swiss coach added. “We have to anticipate all situations very quickly. We have to defend perfectly, otherwise we can’t get a good result.”
DC United head coach Rene Weiler.
The Messi effect in MLS
As happens every time Inter Miami play away from home, local fans’ attention is focused far more on Lionel Messi than on supporting their own team. Rene Weiler also addressed that reality during the press conference.
“It’s an honor to face Messi, and we’ve prepared for it like an away game,” the DC United coach admitted. However, Weiler did not hide a certain level of disappointment with that reality: “It’s about business and marketing. I would prefer it to be more about the sport. But it will be an honor to take part in this match in front of 60,000 people.”
Inter Miami’s upcoming challenges
Saturday’s match against DC United will be Inter Miami’s third of the season, following a loss to LAFC and a win over Orlando City. After the trip to Baltimore, the Herons will make their official debut in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup against Nashville SC.
The first leg of the Round of 16 will take place on Wednesday, March 11 at Geodis Park, while the decisive match will be played a week later at Chase Stadium, which will be the Herons’ final game there before the official opening of Nu Stadium. Between those two matches, Lionel Messi and his teammates will also be in MLS action, visiting Charlotte FC on Saturday, March 14.
Lionel Messi of Inter Miami gestures during a friendly match between Alianza Lima and Inter Miami
An injury to the Portuguese legend has left Al-Nassr vulnerable at a critical moment in the championship race, while developments involving Benzema have suddenly shifted momentum elsewhere.
The rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema once defined an era at Real Madrid. Years later, that competitive edge has followed them to Saudi Arabia, where their clubs now fight for domestic supremacy in the Saudi Pro League. As the season approaches a decisive stage, the title race involving Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal has taken an unexpected twist. Injuries, squad decisions, and returning stars have all played a role in shaping the battle.
What initially appeared to be a moment of opportunity for Ronaldo’s club has quickly turned into something far more complicated. An injury to the Portuguese legend has left Al-Nassr vulnerable at a critical moment in the championship race, while developments involving Benzema have suddenly shifted momentum elsewhere.
The Saudi Pro League campaign has been fiercely contested, with Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli all battling for the top spot. For much of the season, Ronaldo has been at the center of the Riyadh outfit’s charge. The Portuguese superstar has maintained impressive form despite entering his forties, continuing to deliver goals and leadership for his club.
However, the title race took an unexpected turn when both Ronaldo and Benzema experienced injury setbacks within a short period. In late February, Al-Hilal announced that Benzema had suffered a muscle problem during training. “Karim Benzema will be out for a period ranging from 10 to 15 days due to a groin injury,” the club confirmed in an official statement.
Karim Benzema of Al Hilal looks on.
The diagnosis ruled the French striker out of several important fixtures, including league matches against Al-Shabab and Al-Najma. During his absence, Al-Nassr appeared ready to capitalize on the opportunity, climbing above its rivals in the standings while maintaining a narrow lead at the top of the table. But the situation soon reversed.
Ronaldo’s injury adds new uncertainty
Just as Al-Nassr seemed poised to strengthen its title push, Ronaldo suffered a hamstring injury during a recent match. The injury forced the five-time Ballon d’Or winner to leave Saudi Arabia for specialized treatment in Spain. Al-Nassr manager Jorge Jesus confirmed the seriousness of the issue. “After tests, we see the injury suffered by Cristiano Ronaldo was more serious than expected,” Jesus said.
“Cristiano will now travel to Spain, like other players who went for treatment when they were injured. His injury required treatment in Madrid with his personal therapist, and we hope he returns quickly and helps the team.”
The setback means Ronaldo will miss upcoming matches, including an important league clash against Neom. For a player renowned for extraordinary durability, the injury has raised concerns. According to available data, the last time Ronaldo missed more than two weeks due to a muscle problem was in 2019 during his spell at Juventus.
Cristiano Ronaldo playing for Al Nassr.
The moment that changed the dynamic
While Ronaldo continues his recovery, the development that altered the title race came from the opposing side. Karim Benzema returned from his injury and rejoined the Al-Hilal squad, providing a major boost to the club’s attack. What’s more, Italian manager Simone Inzaghi included the French striker in the starting lineup for the league clash against Al-Najma, and it proved to be the right decision. The Frenchman even bagged a brace in his club’s 4-0 win.
The Frenchman had been sidelined after sustaining the injury following a match against Al-Ittihad, which ended in a 1-1 draw. His recovery now arrives at a pivotal moment. His return effectively deals a double blow to Al-Nassr: Ronaldo is sidelined while one of its biggest rivals has regained a key attacking weapon.
Karim Benzema of Al Hilal and Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr.
As the season enters its decisive stretch and the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies, the Portuguese icon faces an uncertain moment following a new injury setback.
The spotlight rarely leaves Cristiano Ronaldo, but the latest news surrounding the legendary forward has sparked fresh concern across the soccer world. As the season enters its decisive stretch and the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies, the Portuguese icon faces an uncertain moment following a new injury setback.
At the center of the story is the situation unfolding at Al-Nassr, where Ronaldo remains the club’s central figure. The Saudi Pro League title race continues to heat up, yet the team now finds itself dealing with the sudden absence of its most influential player. Meanwhile, the captain of the Portugal national team must also think about his international commitments, with friendlies against the United States men’s national team and the Mexico national team approaching quickly.
The situation has left fans wondering when the 41-year-old might return to the pitch. Concerns began after Ronaldo suffered a hamstring injury during a league match against Al-Fayha. The injury occurred late in the game and forced the veteran forward to leave the pitch, immediately raising fears about how serious the problem might be.
Soon after, Al-Nassr confirmed the diagnosis in an official statement. “Cristiano Ronaldo has been diagnosed with a hamstring injury sustained during the match against Al-Fayha. He has begun a rehabilitation program and will be evaluated on a day-to-day basis,” the club announced.
Cristiano Ronaldo playing for Al Nassr
The news immediately cast doubt over the forward’s short-term availability. Ronaldo is certain to miss upcoming domestic matches, including the clash with Neom, while additional fixtures may also be affected depending on his recovery. Despite being 41 years old, Ronaldo has remained a key player for Al-Nassr this season, scoring 21 league goals and helping keep the club near the top of the Saudi Pro League standings.
World Cup fears and international doubts
Further details about the injury were revealed by Al-Nassr coach Jorge Jesus, who confirmed that the situation was more complicated than initially believed. “After tests, we see the injury suffered by Cristiano Ronaldo was more serious than expected,” Jesus admitted.
The timing of the injury could hardly be worse. Portugal is preparing for two high-profile international friendlies that will serve as important preparation before the 2026 World Cup. The team coached by Roberto Martinez is scheduled to face Mexico and the United States at the end of the month. These matches could play a significant role in shaping the squad for the global tournament.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has also provided insight into the potential recovery timeline. “Cristiano Ronaldo could be out for up to four weeks with muscle injury,” Romano wrote on social media, adding that further tests would determine the final prognosis. If that timeline proves accurate, the experienced ace could miss the entire international break, forcing Roberto Martinez to test alternative attacking options during the friendlies.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal reacts following an injury
The potential return date revealed
While uncertainty remains, reports have begun pointing to a possible target for Ronaldo’s comeback. Following the international break and the matches Portugal plans to play in North America, Ronaldo could potentially return to action in the Saudi Pro League clash against Al-Najma on April 3.
That fixture has quietly emerged as the most realistic timeline for the forward’s comeback, assuming his rehabilitation progresses without setbacks. Before that point, however, Ronaldo is expected to miss at least two league matches for Al-Nassr, including games against Neom and Al-Khaleej.
Paulo Dybala underwent surgery weeks before Argentina’s clash with Spain in the Finalissima.
The March international break is approaching, during which Argentina and Spain are scheduled — pending confirmation — to face each other in the Finalissima. In this context, Paulo Dybala underwent surgery on the meniscus of his left knee, putting his potential participation in the match at the center of attention.
“After experiencing discomfort during training at Trigoria on Thursday, the striker and Roma decided to investigate the cause of the problem,”Sky Sports Italy reported Friday. “Dybala was diagnosed with ‘a complete longitudinal tear of the external meniscus’ and so the decision was made to proceed with the surgery.”
This procedure will sideline the Argentine forward for a considerable period while he undergoes the slow process of returning to full fitness. “Regarding recovery time, he will require at least 45 days from an orthopedic standpoint,” the report adds.
That timeline rules Dybala out of the potential Argentina vs. Spain match on March 27. Even if the Finalissima does not take place due to complications arising from the ongoing tense situation in the Middle East, Lionel Scaloni’s team will likely play matches during this FIFA break elsewhere in the world.
Dybala will miss at least 10 matches with AS Roma.
What is Dybala’s situation with the Argentina national team?
According to Argentina national team specialist Gaston Edul, Dybala “could have continued playing with that discomfort and postponed surgery until midyear, but he didn’t want to wait until the end of the season — he wanted to address it now to be fully ready for the summer and the final part of the calendar.”
This explains why the forward chose to undergo surgery now, even though it meant missing the Finalissima: Dybala has lost ground in Lionel Scaloni’s considerations, and his presence against Spain was already highly unlikely.
In fact, the last time the AS Roma forward was called up was in September 2024, when he scored in Argentina’s World Cup qualifier victory over Chile. Since then, Scaloni has prioritized other players such as Thiago Almada and Nicolas Paz.
Frequent injuries have been a major reason for Dybala’s reduced international role, despite having been part of the squad that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and playing in the final against France. His decision to undergo surgery now appears aimed at reaching peak form ahead of the 2026 World Cup and attempting a return to the national team.
How many matches will Dybala miss for AS Roma?
Beyond his situation with Argentina, Dybala also needs to focus on his future with AS Roma. The minimum 45-day absence will rule the forward out for at least the next 10 matches across Serie A and the UEFA Europa League.
This extended absence could be decisive for Dybala’s future beyond this season. His contract with AS Roma expires on June 30, and it remains unclear whether the Italian side will offer a renewal, given his high salary and recurring physical issues.
Manchester United are looking to sign the Juventus midfielder Khephren Thuram.
According to a report from Calciomercato, Manchester United is targeting the 24-year-old, but the Italian outfit might not be willing to sanction his departure. It will be interesting to see if Manchester United is willing to pay the asking price for him.
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Khephren Thuram has done well
Thuram has been excellent in Italy, and he has the quality to play in the Premier League as well. Manchester United needs to replace Casemiro, who will leave at the end of the season. They need a reliable defensive midfielder who can protect the defensive unit and drive the team forward.
The 24-year-old midfielder could be the ideal fit for Manchester United. He will be excited about the possibility of joining the Premier League club. It will be interesting to see if Manchester United can convince Juventus to sell the player. It is fair to assume they will have to pay a premium to get the deal done.
Meanwhile, Thuram is at the peak of his powers, and this could be the right time for him to take on a new challenge and join a bigger club. The move to the Premier League could unlock his true potential and help him develop further.
Thuram has been linked with a move to the Premier League in the past. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United can wrap up the move quickly. A quality midfielder like him could make a huge difference for the Red Devils in the middle of the park.
Manchester United are currently pushing for Champions League qualification, and they will look to build a team capable of winning trophies. Signing the French International could be a defining acquisition for them. He has all the tools to establish himself as a key player in English football, and he could hit the ground running with Manchester United.
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Man United eye Samuel Amissah move
The 18-year-old is a tremendous talent with a bright future, and Manchester United are keen to secure his signature. They are looking to build for the future, and the 18-year-old would be a superb investment.
The central defender can operate as a fullback and as a defensive midfielder. He is very impressive with the ball at his feet, and he could add a new dimension to the Manchester United defence. The opportunity to join one of the best clubs in the world will be exciting for him, and he will prove himself at the highest level. Manchester United could groom him into an important first-team player.
Amissah will be excited about the possibility of joining Manchester United as well. It would be a major step up in his career, and he would get to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world.
The 18-year-old is likely to be available for a nominal investment because of his contract situation. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United can get the deal done.
Meanwhile, Arsenal and Chelsea are providing fierce competition for the talented Young defender. Manchester City and Tottenham are also keeping tabs on his situation. It will be interesting to see where the 18-year-old defender ends up.
Clubs will be hoping to secure his signature on a bargain, given his contract situation.
Arsenal and Chelsea have also done well to nurture young players in the past, and they could play a key role in the 18-year-old’s development.
Liverpool have been urged to make a move for the Real Madrid midfielder, Federico Valverde.
The Uruguay International has been outstanding for Real Madrid since joining the club, and he has established himself as one of the finest midfield players in European football. Valverde has also been linked with Manchester United.
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Murphy on Federico Valverde
Former Liverpool star Danny Murphy believes the South American is the closest in style to Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, and he could prove to be an outstanding acquisition for the club.
Danny Murphy said via TEAMtalk: “Call me old fashioned, but I’d be going for someone in the middle of the pitch who is a leader. Someone everyone can look up to. A bit like Szoboszlai has done this season.
“I always look at Federico Valverde at Madrid. If they could get him, he’s everything. He’s as near to Gerrard as I’ve seen – he’s got wonderful athleticism and he can do everything.
“He’s not as good as Gerrard, but he’s a phenomenal player.”
Liverpool need more quality and depth in the middle of the park, and it will be interesting to see if they decide to make a move for the Real Madrid star. There is no doubt that Valverde would help them improve.
Liverpool need more quality in the middle of the park if they want to compete at the highest level regularly. Valverde is at the peak of his career, and it was no surprise that he is being linked with a move to the Premier League. Liverpool would do well to secure his signature in the summer.
Federico Valverde
TOTAL SCORE: 18/25
Transfer fee
*
Performance
*****
Achievements
*****
Career phase
**
Squad need
*****
It probably wouldn’t surprise you to see we’ve given Valverde a high Transfer Fit rating – this would be a superb signing for the Reds, even if it’s probably a tad unrealistic.
Liverpool will look to compete at the highest level regularly, and they need more technical ability and drive in the middle of the park. The Real Madrid star could be the ideal acquisition in the long-term, and it remains to be seen where he ends up.
Looking to take another giant leap towards defending their La Liga crown, Barcelona will travel to the Basque Country on Saturday night when they meet Athletic Bilbao. While Barca might have failed to complete what would have been an iconic Copa del Rey comeback earlier in the week, Hansi Flick’s superstar squad are leading the […]
Real Madrid are set to face Celta Vigo in La Liga, and Kylian Mbappe is not part of the squad.
This Friday, Real Madrid and Celta Vigo will kick off Matchday 27 of La Liga in a key clash for Los Blancos as they try to close the gap on leaders Barcelona in the standings. Despite the importance of the game, Kylian Mbappe will not be in the squad.
The French forward is recovering from a knee injury that has troubled him since late 2025. He missed several matches earlier this season due to these issues, but the situation worsened in recent weeks, forcing him to skip training and follow a more cautious treatment plan.
Regarding his recovery timeline, there have been varying reports in recent days. While some speculation suggested Mbappe could miss the rest of the season to be fully fit for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with France, Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa offered an optimistic update.
“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,” Arbeloa said this week. These comments come alongside reports indicating that Real Madrid expect to have Mbappe available at least for the second leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 against Manchester City, scheduled for March 17.
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) March 6, 2026
Confirmed Real Madrid lineup vs. Celta Vigo
Alvaro Arbeloa has typically chosen Gonzalo Garcia as Mbappe’s replacement when needed. However, for this match, the coach will opt for a lineup without a traditional center forward next to Vinicius Junior.
The confirmed Real Madrid lineup for Friday’s visit to Celta Vigo in La Liga is: Thibaut Courtois; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, Ferland Mendy; Aurelien Tchouameni, Thiago Pitarch, Federico Valverde, Arda Guler; Vinicius Junior, Brahim Diaz.
How much do Real Madrid miss Mbappe?
It’s clear that Kylian Mbappe’s absence at this crucial point of the season is a significant blow for Real Madrid. The impact is reflected in statistics comparing the team’s performance with and without him: Real Madrid have lost 43% of matches played without Mbappe this season.
This is understandable considering the French forward’s performances. He is the top scorer in La Liga with 23 goals, while also leading the Champions League with 13 goals. Overall, Mbappe has 38 goals and 6 assists in 33 matches this season for Real Madrid.
Antonio Conte spoke to DAZN in the moments before kick-off between Napoli and Torino at the Maradona, addressing the most pressing questions surrounding his team selection, and offering the most detailed update yet on when supporters might see Kevin De Bruyne and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa making a meaningful contribution.
The Belgian and the Cameroonian are both named on the bench this evening, their first involvement in a matchday squad since their respective injuries in the autumn.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 28: Antonio Conte, Head Coach of SSC Napoli, reacts from the technical area during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between SSC Napoli and Chelsea FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 28, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
But Conte was measured in managing expectations, explaining that the timing of the fixture had complicated their preparation.
“This is the first week they have worked with us,” he said, with quotes via IlNapolista.
“Making assessments about how much they can play is difficult, especially because in previous weeks we organised friendlies to help with the integration of new arrivals like Lukaku. This week that was not possible, a practice match would have been useful. If I have brought them to the bench, it means they are available. We will see how the game goes, whether we need them and how much.”
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Antonio Conte, SSC Napoli head coach, gestures before the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Napoli vs Torino – Conte defends selection choices
The selection of three left-footed central defenders raised eyebrows, with Sam Beukema notably absent from the starting lineup.
Conte was typically brief when pressed on the matter.
“These are technical choices, I pick those in the best condition. It is not the first time this has happened,” he said, declining to elaborate further.
With 11 matches remaining, Conte was equally direct about the stakes involved.
Asked about the difficulty of facing a Torino side who have returned to a two-striker system under Roberto D’Aversa, he refused to single out any individual opponent.
“For us every match is important,” he said.
“In these eleven games we will determine what kind of European competition we play next season. Tonight matters, just as Lecce and Cagliari will matter. We must take it game by game and draw conclusions at the end.”
Roma forward Paulo Dybala underwent knee surgery today at the Villa Stuart medical facility in Rome, as surgeons seek to correct a repeating issue in his meniscus.
According to reports from TuttoMercatoWeb, via FirenzeViola, the Argentine was subject to a diagnostic arthroscopy on his left knee, which revealed a small tear in his external meniscus.
During the procedure, surgeons fixed the tear, led by Professor Mariani at Villa Stuart.
Dybala is now expected to sit out for around six weeks, due to return around mid-April.
This means that the Argentine will miss most of the remainder of the season and with his Roma future hanging in the balance, he will want to return before the campaign is over in case it is his last chance to play in Giallorossi colours.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma celebrates a goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on January 18, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Watch: Dybala leaves Villa Stuart after knee surgery
Napoli host Torino at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona this evening, as Antonio Conte’s side look to bounce back from recent wobbles to ensure they do not lose further ground in the race for the top four.
Conte’s Partenopei currently sit in third place but have lost much ground on league leaders Inter over the past couple of months.
An injury crisis in Naples has left Conte fairly short-staffed and they now sit 14 points off of the Nerazzurri. Therefore, the Scudetto dream is quickly fading away but it is still all to play for in the exciting race for Champions League football.
Napoli have a five point lead over 5th placed Como, with Juventus one point behind Fabregas’ side and Atalanta two points behind the Bianconeri.
Torino, meanwhile, come into this game off the back of a first win under Roberto D’Aversa, winning 2-0 at home to Lazio after three consecutive games without a win that saw Marco Baroni sacked.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 1: Roberto D’Aversa, Manager of Torino FC during the Serie A match between Torino FC and SS Lazio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on March 1, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Chris Ricco/Getty Images)
Manchester United are interested in signing the Fulham defender Antonee Robinson at the end of the season.
They will also face competition from Aston Villa. According to Sports Boom, the defender will cost around £25 million in the summer. The London club signed him for £2 million, and he has been exceptional for them over the years.
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Man United keen on Antonee Robinson
He is currently one of the finest players in his position in the Premier League. Manchester United are hoping to secure his signature, and it remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done. The 28-year-old United States International could be a solid long-term replacement for Luke Shaw.
The asking price is quite reasonable for a player of his quality and experience. Manchester United have the finances to get the deal done, and it remains to be seen what they decide.
On the other hand, Aston Villa are monitoring his situation as well. Lucas Digne is entering the twilight stages of his career, and they need to start planning for the future. They are pushing for Champions League qualification, and they need more quality in the team. The 28 year-old United States International could be a superb acquisition for them.
Both clubs have the finances to get the deal across the line, and it will be interesting to see where Robinson ends up. The 28-year-old has proven himself in the Premier League with Fulham, and he will look to take the next step in his career and join an elite club now. He could be attracted to the idea of joining a club where he could be fighting for major trophies. Manchester United could be an attractive destination for him.
Liam Rosenior described Chelsea forward Joao Pedro as “magnificent” ahead of the Blues’ FA Cup fifth-round tie against Wrexham on Saturday. Joao Pedro has been in brilliant form for Chelsea since Rosenior’s arrival in January, and he netted a hat-trick in a 4-1 win over Aston Villa on Wednesday. The Brazilian, who also provided an […]
Hansi Flick claimed he must take the blame for Barcelona’s mounting injury issues, ahead of their clash with Athletic Club. Flick’s team, who lead the way in LaLiga, head to Bilbao to take on Athletic, and former Blaugrana coach Ernesto Valverde, on Saturday. However, they will be without Frenkie de Jong, Jules Kounde and Alejandro […]
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano spoke about the milestone of 900 goals that Lionel Messi is on the verge of reaching.
At nearly 39, Lionel Messi remains one of the most important figures in global sports, not only because of his superstar status but also because of the performances he continues to deliver week after week on the field with Inter Miami and Argentina. Javier Mascherano addressed the topic.
The coach was asked by Bolavip about Messi’s increasingly close pursuit of 900 career goals, a mark that only one player in the history of soccer has reached so far — Cristiano Ronaldo — and one that Leo now needs just two more goals to achieve.
“The numbers that you mention are incredible, he’s unbelievable,” Mascherano said about Messi during Friday’s press conference ahead of Saturday’s Major League Soccer matchup against DC United at M&T Bank Stadium.
“I’m just a privileged spectator,” the Inter Miami coach added regarding the chance to enjoy Messi’s magic on a daily basis, just as he did during their years together as teammates with Barcelona and Argentina. “I just get to watch him closer than you on the sidelines.”
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF scores a free kick against Orlando City SC.
Lionel Messi could surpass Cristiano Ronaldo’s record
While Cristiano Ronaldo remains the first and only player in soccer history to reach the remarkable total of 900 official goals, Lionel Messi could surpass him in terms of efficiency and speed if he reaches that number in the near future.
Ronaldo scored his 900th goal on September 5, 2024, during Portugal’s match against Croatia in the UEFA Nations League. At that time, CR7 was 39 years and 7 months old, and he needed 1,238 official matches between club and international play to reach that milestone, averaging 0.73 goals per game.
Messi could eclipse those numbers. Right now he has 898 goals across his time with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Miami, and Argentina, and he needs just two more. What stands out is that Leo reached those numbers in a considerably shorter time than Ronaldo. The Argentine forward is 38 years, 8 months, and 10 days old and has played 1,149 matches, resulting in an average of 0.78 goals per game.
What are Messi’s upcoming matches?
With another brace, like the one he scored in Inter Miami’s win over Orlando City last Sunday, Lionel Messi would reach the 900-goal mark. That could happen as soon as this Saturday, when the Herons visit DC United in MLS action.
If it does not happen then, the opportunity could come in the Concacaf Champions Cup, where Inter Miami will begin their campaign next Wednesday, March 11 against Nashville SC at Geodis Park. And even if the two expected goals take longer to arrive, the opportunity could come with Argentina during the March international break, although it is still unclear whether they will face Spain in the Finalissima.
Lois Openda’s difficult debut season at Juventus has taken another unusual turn, with the Belgian striker sharing images on social media of himself undergoing an extensive cupping therapy session, covered from head to toe in the traditional Chinese medicine cups in a photo that, as Tuttosport put it, looked more like a torture scene than a recovery treatment.
While athletes occasionally use cupping to aid muscle recovery, the sheer extent of Openda’s session left supporters and observers genuinely taken aback.
It is a striking image of a player trying everything to turn his fortunes around, and the numbers make clear just how badly that turnaround is needed.
VERONA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 20: Lois Openda of Juventus FC enters the pitch the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and Juventus FC at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on September 20, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Openda struggles as Juventus could seek to cash in early
Juventus signed Openda for €40.6 million on a compulsory purchase obligation after an initial €3.3 million loan, with gross annual wages of €7.4 million running until 2030.
The total outlay makes for uncomfortable reading when set against his output.
Across all competitions, 23 Serie A appearances totalling 684 minutes, plus two Coppa Italia and eight Champions League outings, the former RB Leipzig striker has scored just one goal, against Roma in a 2-1 win on 20 December.
The arithmetic, as Tuttosport calculates, is brutal.
His total cost works out at approximately €51,661 per minute played across all competitions. Restricting the calculation to Serie A alone, the figure rises to a staggering €75,000 per minute when factoring in both transfer fee and wages.
Juventus will face enormous difficulty recouping anything close to their investment should they choose to move him on this summer, and with the club already planning significant attacking reinforcements, Openda’s time in Turin looks increasingly limited.
Former Roma star Daniele De Rossi, now the Genoa coach, has a ‘desire for redemption’ against the Giallorossi after December’s 3-1 loss at the Olimpico.
Roma visit De Rossi’s Genoa on Sunday, and the former midfielder previewed the game at a press conference on Friday.
Genoa vs. Roma – De Rossi’s pre-match press conference
“On Sunday, there will be many people I care about, and I’ll want to hug. In the meantime, I send a hug to Dybala, but Roma are very strong even without him,” De Rossi said via Corriere dello Sport.
“I hug him as I did when he became a father,” De Rossi said.
Sebastian Otoa and Brooke Norton-Cuffy remain in doubt for Genoa.
“I still don’t know if they’ll be called up. The positive news is that they’re doing much better, and we have great confidence regarding all the injured players,” De Rossi said.
“Baldanzi surely won’t be there, but he also gives us hope. We’ve lost him, but I don’t think for very long.”
Roma and Genoa already met recently, with the Grifone suffering a 3-1 away loss in late December.
GENOA, ITALY – JANUARY 12: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa, looks on during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on January 12, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
“The reverse fixture was our worst match since I’ve been here, despite mistakes made in other games as well and despite the opponent’s strength,” noted De Rossi.
“Roma’s value is unquestionable; what we lacked was the reaction. We’ve played against teams that dominated us like Napoli or Atalanta, but the reaction was always there.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Coach Daniele De Rossi of Genoa CFC reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and Genoa CFC at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 15, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
“On Sunday, we’ll have to be ready for anything. We’ve always done well at home, and the crowd is positive and really pushes us. I always tell my friends to come and watch Genoa here to understand.
“We know what kind of match we need to play. There’s also a bit of desire for redemption on our part for what we did in the reverse fixture. That was the only time I’ve looked at myself in the mirror and not been proud of myself; the only time I went home and asked a couple of questions.”
Reports in Italy claim that Milan left-back Davide Bartesaghi trained with the rest of the team on Friday, so he’s expected to be available for Sunday’s Serie A derby against Inter.
Milan left-back Bartesaghi trained with the rest of his teammates this morning, giving coach Massimiliano Allegri a much-needed boost for Sunday’s Derby della Madonnina against Inter.
Bartesaghi resumes training with Milan ahead of derby
Bartesaghi was subbed off during last week’s away game at Cremonese, but exams undergone earlier this week didn’t highlight any lesion in the flexor of his right thigh.
As reported by Milannews and Sky Sport Italia, Bartesaghi returned to group training on Friday, so he should be eligible for the next Serie A match.
It remains to be seen, however, whether the Italian defender will start against Inter or if Allegri will pick Pervis Estupinan as a left wing-back.
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 01: Davide Bartesaghi of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AC Milan at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Bartesaghi, 20, has scored two goals and provided one assist in 24 appearances across all competitions this season.
Milan sit second in the Serie A table, ten points below their next rivals Inter.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: Luka Modric of AC Milan competes for the ball with Nicolo’ Barella of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti says Dusan Vlahovic is still unavailable, but hopes to return against Udinese, while Weston McKennie’s contract extension proves the club is preparing for the future ‘properly.’
Juventus striker Vlahovic won’t be eligible for Saturday’s Serie A match against Pisa.
The Serbia international returned to training earlier this week after undergoing surgery in December, but he’s still not fit to be part of the squad.
Vlahovic not available for Juventus vs. Pisa
“Not tomorrow, he’s focusing on Udinese,” Spalletti said at a pre-match press conference on Friday.
During his meeting with the media, Spalletti confirmed that he’d continue talks with the club over a new contract in the coming days and then commented on McKennie’s recent contract extension.
“Juventus are showing that it’s preparing properly for the future through scouting and planning. McKennie is a strong player, a very strong one,” the coach said.
FLORENCE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 22: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus FC reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Juventus FC at Artemio Franchi on November 22, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“The club did everything it needed to do without me having to say anything.”
Surely, however, working under Spalletti has benefited the American midfielder, who has scored eight goals and provided seven assists in 27 appearances under the Tuscan tactician.
Mattia Perin started the last two games for Juventus, replacing under-fire Michele Di Gregorio, but will Juventus’ first-choice keeper return to the XI against Pisa?
“I’ll announce the line-up tomorrow,” Spalletti said.
“They are both doing very well, and I was sorry to hear certain things about Di Gregorio, because it’s pointless to single out individuals when the difficulties are collective.
“It will be a very difficult match. The whole environment considers it an easy game to win; everyone thinks they are already relegated, but I’m sure Gilardino was already giving them certain messages, and Oscar Hiljemark as well. Teams always find ways to create motivation. Sometimes it’s even easier in those moments than in others. When a player thinks the game is easy, he becomes more superficial. I’m convinced my players will evaluate the match properly. When you become superficial, you get knocked down, and we absolutely must not let that happen.”
Arsenal are interested in signing the Como attacker Jesus Rodriguez at the end of the season.
The 20-year-old has impressed in Italy, and Arsenal are hoping to secure his signature. They will also face competition from Manchester City. According to Sports Boom, both Premier League clubs are interested in the 20-year-old, and they view him as a top prospect for the future.
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Arsenal could use Jesus Rodriguez
It will be interesting to see if the Italian club is willing to sanction his departure. The player has been labelled as an “assist machine”.
Arsenal could use more creativity on the flanks, and the 20-year-old would be a long-term acquisition. He will add unpredictability, pace and flair to the team. The opportunity to join one of the best clubs in the world will be quite exciting for him. Arsenal regularly competes for major trophies, and the opportunity to sign a talented young player like Rodriguez will be exciting for them as well.
Meanwhile, Como is likely to demand around €55 million for the young attacker. They rate him highly, and they do not want to lose him easily.
Meanwhile, Manchester City are looking to add more quality on the flanks. It remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done. They have the financial muscle to pay the asking price, and they are likely to be an attractive destination for the player as well.
Both clubs could provide him with a platform to regularly fight for trophies. It will be interesting to see where he ends up.
The asking price is quite high for someone who is still largely improving at the highest level. However, he could justify the outlet in future.
Troy Parrott has been linked with a return to the Premier League at the end of the season.
The 24-year-old has been outstanding for AZ Alkmaar, and he could prove to be a quality acquisition for the right team. According to Sports Boom, Leeds United and West Ham United are interested in the Irish attacker.
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Troy Parrott asking price set
The player is likely to cost around £17 million in the summer, and it will be interesting to see where he ends up. He has 24 goals and seven assists to his name this season, and he could be an excellent acquisition for both clubs.
Leeds United are fighting for survival in the Premier League, and they will look to establish themselves as top-flight regulars. They need more depth in the attacking unit. Dominic Calvert-Lewin has done well since joining the club, but he needs more support in the attack. Signing another reliable striker like Parrott would be a wise decision.
Meanwhile, West Ham United could use more depth in the attacking unit. Even though they have invested in Pablo and Taty Castellanos, Parrott could be a very useful option for them in the attack. The 24-year-old will feel that he has unfinished business in the Premier League. He has previously failed to make his mark in English football with Tottenham. It remains to be seen whether any club is willing to pay the asking price for him in the summer.
He has been a prolific goal scorer for the Dutch outfit and has impressed for the national team as well. There is no doubt that he is ready for the Premier League, and he could make an immediate impact.
The asking price seems reasonable for a player of his quality.
Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has been linked with a move away from the club, and they are keeping tabs on the RB Leipzig striker Romulo Cardoso.
The 24-year-old has done quite well since moving to the German club, with 11 goal contributions this season. The Brazilian has impressed with his performances, and he could prove to be a quality acquisition for the West Midlands club.
According to Sports Boom, Aston Villa view the player as a “purebred No.9” and believe he has the quality to succeed in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Fulham are also interested in the player. It remains to be seen whether Aston Villa can win the race for his signature.
Cardoso has the physicality and technical attributes to succeed in English football, and he could establish himself as an important player for Aston Villa. The hard-working striker will help create opportunities for his teammates and find the back of the net as well.
Apart from his link-up play and ability to score goals, he is extremely potent in the air. His 6-foot-5 frame makes him difficult to handle in the air.
Aston Villa certainly have the financial resources to get the deal done, and they are currently pushing for Champions League qualification. If they manage to secure European football for the upcoming campaign, they are likely to be an attractive destination for the 24-year-old attacker.
He will look to prove himself at the highest level, and the opportunity to play in the Premier League will be exciting. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
Verdict: Both teams to score – No Best Odds: 10/11 Bookmaker: Luckster Two camps who open Sunday’s showdown only separated by their goal difference, Sevilla will welcome Rayo Vallecano to Andalusia this weekend. Sevilla Starting with the hosts, mounting a shock second-half comeback away at bitter local rivals Real Betis last weekend as they eventually […]
Numerous journalists from different media outlets believe this summer will be the one when Mohamed Salah finally leaves Liverpool, after nine years. Rightly regarded as a legend of the Merseyside club, the Egyptian’s dip in form this season has been huge, and with his 34th birthday coming in June, there is next to no hope […]
Robert Lewandowski addressed his future with Barcelona.
For months, there has been speculation in Barcelona about the future of several of the team’s attacking players. Expiring contracts, purchase options that must be exercised, and potential reinforcements have been major topics among fans and the media, with several high-profile names involved in those conversations. Robert Lewandowski is among them, with his future still uncertain.
The Polish striker’s contract with Barcelona expires on June 30 of this year, in the middle of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, and there is still no clarity about what will happen beyond that date.
“I’ll give myself around three months to decide what I want to do. Me, just me,” Lewandowski said about the situation during a recent interview with Sky Sports. That means Robert will wait until the end of the current campaign to evaluate his next step, likely so he can get a full picture of both his own performances and the club’s results during the decisive stages of the season.
“What is good is that I don’t have pressure,” he added. “At 30 or a few years (younger), this kind of feeling is going to be different. ‘I want to see where I’m going to play’. But in this moment, I don’t have to know. I have patience.“
Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring against RCD Mallorca.
Lewandowski is 37 years old and will have turned 38 by the start of the 2026-27 season. He clearly knows he is entering the final stage of his professional career, which is why he is approaching every decision with caution, aware that his next move could be the last of his soccer career.
Lewandowski remains motivated for Barcelona’s upcoming challenges
Just because Robert Lewandowski knows he is nearing the end of his career does not mean he has lost the competitive fire that has always driven him to perform at the highest level. In fact, he appears motivated by the challenges Barcelona have ahead in the coming months.
“The season is starting again,” the Polish striker said in the same interview, referring to the fact that the Blaugranas are now entering the decisive stages of La Liga and the UEFA Champions League. “We have to be ready for the most important time in this part of the season.”
Speaking about that mindset, Lewandowski explained how he prepares himself for the challenges ahead: “You always have to be ready. Always you have to think, what can I do better, what can I do more? You have to think 24 hours per day about your football. You need always this feeling that you’re hungry for more.”
Lewandowski also thinking about the World Cup
Beyond his focus on Barcelona’s challenges, Robert Lewandowski also has a clear goal in the near future: leading Poland to another World Cup. They are set to play in the European play-off during the March FIFA break, where they will face Albania in the semifinals and, if they advance, play for qualification against either Sweden or Ukraine.
“We have two games, two finals. We don’t have any space for the mistakes,” Lewandowski said. “If we’re winning first game, then we have to be ready for the final. It’s the challenge for every team in these play-offs: to play not one game but two games on the higher level. I take this challenge and it’s going to be interesting. I hope we can enjoy and go to the USA for the World Cup.“
Celta de Vigo receive Real Madrid in a Matchday 27 clash of the 2025/26 La Liga campaign. Below, you’ll find all the key details for this matchup, including kickoff times and full information on how to watch the game live on TV and through available streaming services.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Celta de Vigo vs Real Madrid on US television and via legal streaming:
Pressure is mounting on Real Madrid after a costly stumble against Getafe left them four points adrift of rivals Barcelona in the La Liga title chase. With little room for another misstep, Kylian Mbappe and company know a convincing response is essential to keep pace at the top.
But a surging Celta de Vigo squad, enjoying a strong 2025/2026 campaign and eyeing European qualification, won’t make it easy in a matchup loaded with major implications—be sure to tune in for what should be a high-stakes showdown.
More details on how to watch
With ESPN+, you can watch Celta de Vigo vs Real Madrid and tons more soccer games. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, Apple, Android, and Amazon Fire devices, Roku, Samsung Smart TV, Chromecast, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Oculus Go.
Now with ESPN+, you can stream Bundesliga, LaLiga, FA Cup, Eredivisie, NWSL, USL and more.
If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.
To find out when soccer games are on, download the free Soccer TV Schedules App which includes listings of all of the live soccer matches available in the United States (available on Apple iOS devices and Android devices).
PSG battles Monaco during Matchday 25 of the 2025/2026 season. Supporters within the United States can witness every moment; start times and media information reside below for cable and digital platforms.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch PSG vs Monaco on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
PSG vs Monaco
WHAT
Ligue 1
WHEN
2:45pm ET / 11:45am PT • Friday, March 6, 2026
WHERE
Fubo, Fanatiz, beIN SPORTS, beIN SPORTS en Español and beIN SPORTS Connect
A pivotal Ligue 1 showdown is on deck as AS Monaco look to shake up the title race when they host league leaders Paris Saint-Germain. Monaco enter the weekend with 37 points and sitting outside the European places, making this a crucial opportunity to spark a late surge up the standings.
Meanwhile, PSGsit comfortably at the top with 57 points, holding a four-point edge over second-place RC Lens and aiming to extend their winning streak to protect their cushion. With major implications at both ends of the table, this is a must-watch clash you won’t want to miss.
More details on how to watch
With Fubo, you can watch PSG vs Monaco and tons more games. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, Apple TV or hook it up to your TV with Google Chromecast.
Now with Fubo, you can stream USA Network, ESPN, ESPN2, CBS, CBS Sports Network, FS1, FS2, beIN SPORTS, beIN SPORTS en Español, beIN SPORTS Connect, beIN SPORTS XTRA, NBC, CNBC, USA, FOX, FOX Soccer Plus, FOX Deportes, Universo, Telemundo and Galavision.
Plus Fubo, the legal streaming service, also streams Liga MX, World Cup, Women’s World Cup, MLS, UEFA Champions League (in Spanish), Europa League (in Spanish), Primeira Liga, Ligue Un, World Cup qualifiers, NWSL, select USMNT games, select USWNT games, select Mexico games, select England games and more.
The Fubo app is available for Windows PC, Mac, Apple iPhones, Android phones, Amazon Fire TV, Android Mobile, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Hisense TVs, iOS devices, LG TVs, Samsung Smart TVs, Vizio Smartcast TVs and Xbox One.
If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full Fubo soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
How to watch anywhere with VPN
If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.
To find out when soccer games are on, download the free Soccer TV Schedules App which includes listings of all of the live soccer matches available in the United States (available on Apple iOS devices and Android devices).
United States president Donald Trump welcomed Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates to commemorate the club’s historic 2025 MLS Cup triumph, a milestone moment for the franchise and for soccer in the US.
A celebration of sporting excellence inside the White House quickly turned into one of soccer’s most intriguing talking points. United States president Donald Trump welcomedLionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates to commemorate the club’s historic 2025 MLS Cup triumph, a milestone moment for the franchise and for soccer in the US.
While the ceremony celebrated the Herons’ remarkable rise in Major League Soccer, it also produced a moment that immediately sparked debate across the global soccer community. The comment revived one of soccer’s oldest arguments, a comparison between generations of legends. Inter Miami’s visit to Washington followed the club’s first MLS Cup victory, secured in December after defeating Vancouver Whitecaps in the final.
The triumph marked a historic step for a club founded only a few years earlier and co-owned by David Beckham. The White House ceremony continued the long-standing American tradition of honoring championship teams. Players, staff members, and club executives gathered for the event, which celebrated the season that transformed Inter Miami into one of the most recognizable teams in world soccer.
Messi, who joined the club in mid-2023, has been central to that transformation. His impact has been nothing short of extraordinary. According to season statistics, the Argentine superstar recorded 43 goals and 25 assists in 49 appearances during the 2025 campaign, leading Inter Miami to the league title and earning the MLS Most Valuable Player award for a second consecutive season, the first player in league history to achieve that feat.
U.S. President Donald Trump receives gifts as Lionel Messi (L) and fellow members of Inter Miami look on
During the ceremony, Messi presented Trump with a bejeweled pink soccer ball, symbolizing the club’s iconic kit and its growing cultural influence. Trump addressed the Argentine directly while praising his achievements. “Leo, you came in and you won, and that’s something very hard to do, very, very unusual,” Trump said.
The moment that sparked a global debate
Midway through the ceremony, Trump shifted the conversation toward soccer history, recalling his memories of watching Brazilian legend Pele during the 1970s. The Brazilian famously played for the New York Cosmos between 1975 and 1977, a period widely credited with helping popularize soccer in the United States.
That memory led Trump to deliver the remark that quickly spread around the world. “I shouldn’t say this because you’ll say I’m old, but I watched Pele play,” he said. “You may be better than Pele… Who’s better?”
The comment reignited one of soccer’s most enduring debates: whether Messi’s achievements surpass those of the Brazilian icon. The president then appeared to make his own stance clear. “I agree. I think he is.” Within minutes, the statement had spread across social media and sports networks, adding a political voice to the long-running GOAT (Greatest of All Time) discussion.
Praise for Messi’s decision to join Inter Miami
Trump also used the occasion to highlight Messi’s decision to continue his career in the United States rather than returning to Europe or moving elsewhere. “You could have gone anywhere in the world. You could have chosen any team in the world, and you chose Miami,” he said. “I don’t blame you. The weather’s extremely good.”
Lionel Messi of Inter Miami CF shakes hands with U.S. President Donald Trump
While Messi remained silent during the ceremony, his presence alone reflected the enormous influence he has had on American soccer since arriving.
Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti says he’ll continue talks with the club over a new contract in the coming days and reveals he’ll move into the same building as club director Damien Comolli: ‘So we’ll run into each other when we go downstairs.’
Juventus coach Spalletti provided an update on his future at the Allianz Stadium during a press conference on Friday.
The Italian tactician previewed tomorrow’s Serie A match against Pisa, but inevitably faced a question about his contract, which expires at the end of the season.
“The numbers say that we’re not where we would like to be, and we have to remember that,” Spalletti said.
“But we also see how close the fans are to the team, and their message is coming through loud and clear because of their attachment to the shirt and what the players are doing. That’s what gives us the most pleasure and what drives us forward.”
Most of the Juventus fans seem to be fully backing Spalletti, while club directors Giorgio Chiellini and Comolli have reiterated that they want to continue with the Italian coach beyond the summer.
“We have to play out this final part of the season. We are all focused and oriented in that direction,” the coach added.
“The group is what matters. As for the future, we’ll talk about it this week, but right now we are tied to this moment, to everything that’s happening. We’ll calmly discuss what the future will be, mine and Juventus’s, without pressure or stress.
Spalletti: ‘Having a contract to show off’ doesn’t matter
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Juventus FC head coach Luciano Spalletti looks on during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“What matters is what the team is doing, the desire the team will show in these matches. Results matter too, but so does planning for the future. My contract has already been discussed with the club because we are close. In fact, I’m about to move into the same building as Comolli, so we’ll run into each other when we go downstairs.
“What matters is doing well, not having a contract to show off. We need to perceive the space ahead of us, and there is still space ahead; we have to be careful to recognise that space.”
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Weston McKennie of Juventus FC celebrates with teammates after scoring the third goal of his team during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
Juventus sit sixth in the Serie A table, but just four points below fourth-placed Roma.
Spalletti was hired at the end of October to replace Igor Tudor, and Juventus have won 14 of 27 games under the Tuscan tactician.
Surgeon Pier Paolo Marini, who performed arthroscopy surgery on Paulo Dybala’s meniscus today, says the Argentine star be forced to the sidelines for at least 45 days.
The Argentine continued to experience knee discomfort on Thursday and, alongside the club, decided to undergo surgery.
Dybala underwent meniscus surgery
“It was decided after a consultation yesterday,” Mariani, the doctor who performed the operation, told Sky Sport Italia.
“The initial diagnosis was a meniscal injury, although there were no clear signs on the MRI. Yesterday, together with Dr Petrucci, we decided to perform a diagnostic and surgical arthroscopy.
“We found a tear in the lateral meniscus. From an orthopaedic standpoint, the recovery time is about 45 days,” the doctor continued.
“After that, I hope the return to the pitch will be quick, but it will be decided by the Roma medical staff, the trainers and the coach.”
Dybala has scored three goals and provided four assists in 22 appearances across all competitions this season.
The Argentine striker’s contract at the Stadio Olimpico expires this coming June. Dybala made his last competitive appearance for Roma on January 25.
This latest injury casts even more doubts about his future at the Stadio Olimpico. According to Italian sources, Boca Juniors directors have already opened talks with the former Juventus star, who is available for a free transfer in June.
ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 29: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma in action during the warm up before the Serie A match between AS Roma and Parma Calcio 1913 at Stadio Olimpico on October 29, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Roma currently sit fourth in the Serie A table with 51 points, three above fifth-placed Como.
The Giallorossi have also qualified for the Europa League Round of 16, where they’ll meet their Serie A opponents, Bologna.
Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion might not have been a masterclass in free-flowing attacking football, but it was a massive step toward the Premier League title.
A deflected ninth-minute strike from Bukayo Saka proved to be the difference, allowing Mikel Arteta’s side to capitalize on Manchester City’s slip-up and move seven points clear at the top of the table.
However, the post-match narrative was quickly dominated by a clash of styles and a fiery war of words.
Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler was visibly frustrated at the final whistle, launching an astonishing rant against Arsenal’s tactics.
Hurzeler was annoyed by Arsenal tactics
Annoyed by the Gunners’ perceived gamesmanship and slow restarts, with data showing Arsenal took over 30 minutes to restart play across the match, Hürzeler accused the visitors of ruining the spectacle.
“There was only one team who tried to play football today,” the German manager fumed, pointing out that Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya went down for treatment on three separate occasions.
Hürzeler boldly declared that Arsenal’s approach “was not football” and stated, “I will never be that kind of manager who tries to win in that way.”
Arsenal centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes in action (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Gabriel Magalhães, who put in a monumental Man of the Match performance filled with vital blocks and towering headers to keep Brighton at bay, was quick to dismiss Hürzeler’s complaints.
Speaking to the media, the Brazilian center-back made it abundantly clear that the Brighton camp’s frustrations mean very little to the league leaders.
“That is for the referee to decide on the pitch. If he wants to give a yellow card or not, he decides the time we take.
“We just have to do things the way we are doing and keep going.”
Gabriel’s blunt dismissal perfectly shows the ruthless mentality currently driving Arsenal.
Arteta’s squad is no longer interested in winning popularity contests or earning praise for playing aesthetically pleasing football if it means dropping points away from home.
With the Premier League trophy firmly in their sights, Arsenal’s sole focus is crossing the finish line, no matter how many feathers they have to ruffle along the way.
Sitting in last place in the Premier League table, Wolves beat reigning champions Liverpool earlier this week, and they’re set to take them on again in the FA Cup this evening (Friday). Have they got what it takes to do it again? Let’s wait and see. “We believe that we can turn things around” 👀 […]
Numerous journalists from different media outlets believe this summer will be the one when Mohamed Salah finally leaves Liverpool, after nine years. Rightly regarded as a legend of the Merseyside club, the Egyptian’s dip in form this season has been huge, and with his 34th birthday coming in June, there is next to no hope […]
Cristiano Ronaldo remains a central figure for both Al-Nassr and the Portugal national team, but recent comments from his club coach Jorge Jesus have raised fresh concern over the striker’s physical condition.
Uncertainty has suddenly surrounded one of soccer’s most enduring superstars. Cristiano Ronaldo remains a central figure for both Al-Nassr and the Portugal national team, but recent comments from his club coach Jorge Jesus have raised fresh concern over the striker’s physical condition.
The veteran forward limped off during Al-Nassr’s recent match against Al-Fayha in the Saudi Pro League, sparking immediate questions about the severity of the problem. At first glance, the injury appeared manageable, but the latest update from inside the club suggests the situation could be more complicated than initially believed.
The timing could hardly be worse. With the club pushing for a historic domestic title and Portugal preparing for crucial friendlies against the Mexico national team and the United States men’s national team, the health of their captain has become a major talking point just months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
What did Jorge Jesus say about Ronaldo?
The setback occurred late in Al-Nassr’s league victory over Al-Fayha when Ronaldo left the field in the 81st minute after feeling discomfort in his hamstring. Initial reports suggested the injury might only be minor fatigue, but further examinations painted a more worrying picture.
Speaking ahead of the team’s next league fixture against NEOM, Jorge Jesus revealed the result of those tests. “After tests, we see the injury suffered by Cristiano Ronaldo was more serious than expected.” That revelation marked a significant shift in the narrative surrounding the injury. What initially looked like a minor muscle issue has now been confirmed to be more complicated, forcing the Portuguese superstar to seek specialist care outside Saudi Arabia.
Jorge Jesus, Manager of Al-Nassr, interacts with Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr.
Jesus explained the next step in the recovery process. “Cristiano will now travel to Spain, like other players who went for treatment when they were injured. His injury required treatment in Madrid with his personal therapist, and we hope he returns quickly and helps the team.” The decision reflects Ronaldo’s long-standing practice of working with trusted medical staff in Madrid, where he spent nearly a decade playing for Real Madrid.
Treatment in Spain and uncertain timeline
The trip to Spain highlights the seriousness of the rehabilitation process. According to the club’s coaching staff, Ronaldo will follow a personalized recovery program under the supervision of his own physiotherapist, a strategy often used by elite athletes dealing with muscle injuries. However, the exact recovery timeline remains unclear.
Medical experts generally categorize hamstring injuries into several grades. A grade-one strain typically requires one to three weeks of recovery, while a grade-two tear can sideline a player for four to eight weeks. Until the full extent of the damage is confirmed, neither Al-Nassr nor Portugal can predict exactly when their captain will return.
Portugal’s World Cup preparation at risk
Beyond club soccer, the situation has also raised concerns for Portugal’s preparations ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The national team, coached by Roberto Martinez, is scheduled to face Mexico on March 28 and the United States on March 31 in North America. Those matches represent the final testing ground before the global tournament begins.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal reacts
Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano suggested the injury could keep Ronaldo sidelined for several weeks. “Cristiano Ronaldo could be out for up to four weeks with muscle injury.” If that timeline proves accurate, Portugal could be forced to prepare for those friendlies without its captain and all-time leading scorer.
Despite the setback, the 41-year-old’s ultimate goal remains unchanged. The Portuguese legend hopes to participate in a record sixth World Cup, with the 2026 tournament set to begin in the United States, Mexico, and Canada in just over three months. At 41, maintaining fitness is crucial, and the medical teams around him will prioritize long-term recovery over rushing him back too soon.
Manchester United have reportedly begun exploring a potential summer move for Juventus striker Jonathan David as the club evaluates further reinforcements in attack.
According to TEAMtalk, representatives acting on David’s behalf have held discussions with United through intermediaries regarding a possible transfer at the end of the 2025/26 season.
United sit third in the Premier League table despite suffering a midweek defeat to Newcastle United.
With Champions League qualification firmly within reach, the club’s leadership is already planning how to strengthen the squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Man United plan to strengthen their attack
Man United significantly reshaped their forward line last summer by signing Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Šeško.
The trio have provided the team with increased pace, pressing intensity, and tactical flexibility in the final third.
However, the club’s recruitment strategy remains focused on building depth and competition in key attacking areas.
Modern Premier League campaigns demand squads capable of coping with domestic and European schedules, and United are keen to ensure they have enough quality options across the front line.
One uncertainty surrounds Joshua Zirkzee’s future at Old Trafford. The Dutch striker has struggled to consistently secure a starting role and has been linked with a possible move away.
If he were to depart, United would almost certainly seek another striker capable of offering a different attacking profile.
David’s situation at Juventus has not been impressive
Jonathan David of Juventus FC in action (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
David’s time in Italy has not gone entirely according to plan. Since joining Juventus, the Canadian international has struggled to replicate the prolific scoring form that made him one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards during his time in Ligue 1 with Lille.
So far this season, David has scored seven goals in 37 appearances for the Turin club.
While his work rate and movement remain highly regarded, the lack of consistent goal output has led to speculation that both the player and Juventus could consider a fresh start.
Transfers are a big part of football, and it’s every bit as chaotic and unpredictable as the beautiful game on the pitch that we all know and love.
Huge amounts of work happens behind the scenes via scouts, sporting directors, agents, and intermediaries, to determine if a player is the right fit for their club, both in terms of what they can offer on the pitch, and if they’re a realistic and affordable target.
When it comes to covering football transfer news, we know fans are desperate to find out inside information on the players their teams are chasing, but also to gain an insight into what this player could offer, and realistic expectations about how good a piece of business it could be.
This kind of analysis is going on inside football clubs all the time, and while there can never be a totally foolproof method for guaranteeing every signing will be a success, our years of experience in covering the transfer market has afforded us some insight into what clubs are doing to assess players and how that guides their recruitment decisions.
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With that in mind, we aim to provide our readers with a scoring system of our own, to help contextualise player links and to give fans not just a news story, but hopefully a glimpse into what a deal means for their team’s future.
We’ve put together the following five categories, each of which we’ll rate out of five for a total score of 25 for each player. The higher the score the better, and these are the categories we’ve chosen as the most significant, with a full breakdown of what they mean…
Transfer fee
This one’s pretty simple – how much is this player going to cost? Are they already at a big club, with a long-term contract? If so, it’s probably going to end up being too expensive to be worth it. Transfer fees and asking prices can obviously change depending on certain clauses, if the player is unhappy, and if a club sees another similar player suddenly moving for a higher or lower price than expected.
Performance
This one’s pretty important – how well is Player X actually performing? We’ll do our best to crunch the numbers, whether that’s goals and assists for attacking players, or tackles and interceptions for defensive players. This will be based on recent form, because fans deserve to know if the big name they’re being linked with has actually been well below par recently. Even a goal machine like Erling Haaland can go through a dry spell, and whether that’s a temporary blip or the start of a long-term decline is not always obvious, but in the here and now it’s something that has to be taken into account.
Achievements
While recent performances are important, there will also be times when a club is looking for someone even with the knowledge that their best years might be behind them. While there’s often so much talk of the need to find the best talents before they hit their peak, there’s sometimes also a clear need for adding an experienced old head to balance out the youth of a squad, and to provide guidance on the training ground and in the dressing room as much as on the pitch. Of course, some players will already have plenty of games and trophies under their belt at a relatively young age, which just adds to their value.
Is a player just breaking through and causing a sensation? Have they just hit their peak and find themselves a big fish ready to leave a small pond? Do they look a bit too expensive when they have maybe two or three years left at the top at most? We’ll do our best to convey that with this rating.
Squad need
Are we looking at a player who’s going to immediately prove a major upgrade on what the club already have, or are they a bit of a luxury player? Is this transfer target perhaps a complete waste of time because they’ve spent their career playing as a wing-back but are now being linked with a team who play with a back four? We’ll use this category to evaluate how much Player X is actually needed by whoever’s being linked.
Weak, medium, or strong?
After taking those all into account, we’ll give a total score out of 25 to grade how strong a fit this player is.
0-8 = LOW
9-17 = MEDIUM
18-25 = HIGH
Michael Olise Transfer Fit rating
So, to take one example doing the rounds at the moment, Michael Olise is being linked with Liverpool and he’s a world class player, approaching his prime, whose only issue is probably his price tag.
Unsurprisingly, this gets a high score from us…Olise would be a near-perfect signing for Liverpool right now!
Michael Olise Transfer Fit score (CaughtOffside)
Michael Olise
TOTAL SCORE: 21/25
Transfer fee
**
Performance
*****
Achievements
****
Career phase
*****
Squad need
*****
Julian Alvarez Transfer Fit rating
While it might be intuitive to think of Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez as a tempting target for Arsenal, who lack a world class striker, our verdict gives a slightly more mixed picture, taking into account his huge price tag and recent dip in form.
Julian Alvarez Transfer Fit rating (CaughtOffside)
Julian Alvarez
TOTAL SCORE: 15/25
Transfer fee
*
Performance
**
Achievements
***
Career phase
****
Squad need
*****
Sandro Tonali Transfer Fit rating
Finally, an example of a signing we wouldn’t recommend for Arsenal is Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali.
It’s important to note that this does not mean he’s a bad player by any stretch of the imagination, and perhaps for a different club we’d have him a much higher score, but he’s been strongly linked with Arsenal in recent times and it’s hard to justify it based on his likely cost and their current squad needs.
Manchester United’s search for a permanent manager is beginning to take clearer shape as the club prepares for a pivotal summer.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, reported by the Express, the Red Devils have narrowed their shortlist to three primary candidates as they look to appoint a new head coach ahead of the 2026/27 season.
United parted ways with Ruben Amorim at the beginning of 2026 following a disappointing spell in charge.
Former midfielder Michael Carrick was then placed in temporary control of the first team until the end of the campaign.
Roberto Martinez is being considered by Man United
Among the names under serious consideration is Portugal national team manager Roberto Martínez, as reported by Jacobs.
The Spaniard, who has been in international management for nearly a decade, is reportedly open to returning to club football after the 2026 World Cup in North America.
Martínez built his reputation in English football with Swansea City before achieving one of the FA Cup’s greatest upsets in 2013, when his Wigan Athletic side defeated Manchester City at Wembley.
A subsequent spell at Everton demonstrated his commitment to possession-based football, though defensive issues ultimately cost him his job.
On the international stage, Martínez guided Belgium’s “Golden Generation” to a third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup and later took charge of Portugal in 2023.
Under his leadership, Portugal secured the 2025 UEFA Nations League title, strengthening his reputation as a tactically astute and diplomatic manager capable of handling elite talent.
Julian Nagelsmann has been linked with Manchester United (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
Alongside Martínez, two other prominent names continue to circulate within United’s decision-making circles, Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto De Zerbi.
Both are widely respected for their progressive tactical approaches and ability to develop young players.
United’s leadership is reportedly assessing which candidate best aligns with the club’s long-term football strategy, particularly as they aim to rebuild a squad capable of competing for major trophies again.
Whether United ultimately turn to Martínez’s experience, Nagelsmann’s innovation, De Zerbi’s attacking philosophy, or even extend Carrick’s role, the choice will play a crucial role in shaping the club’s ambitions beyond 2026.
Arne Slot’s position as Liverpool manager is expected to come under serious review at the end of the 2025/26 season, with growing uncertainty surrounding the club’s direction.
According to reports from TEAMtalk, Liverpool’s ownership group, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), are closely monitoring the situation following a disappointing campaign that has fallen well short of expectations.
Liverpool sit sixth in the Premier League table and are fighting to secure qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
That reality marks a significant decline from last season’s title-winning success and has intensified scrutiny around Slot’s tenure at Anfield.
Complicating matters further is the availability of former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso, who has been without a managerial role since leaving Real Madrid in January.
Liverpool have struggled to perform this season
When Liverpool lifted the Premier League trophy last season, the expectation was that Slot’s side would remain among England’s dominant forces.
Instead, the current campaign has been marked by inconsistency, defensive fragility, and struggles against direct rivals.
Several factors have contributed to the team’s uneven form. Injuries to key players, squad fatigue, and the challenge of integrating new signings have all played a role.
However, Liverpool’s hierarchy reportedly expected the team to remain firmly in the title race rather than battling for a Champions League place.
FSG are known for taking a measured approach when it comes to managerial decisions, but sources suggest the scale of the drop-off has raised internal concerns about whether the current project is progressing as planned.
Xabi Alonso looks on (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
One name continues to dominate discussions about Liverpool’s potential future direction: Xabi Alonso.
The Spaniard, a legendary figure from Liverpool’s 2005 Champions League-winning side, has quickly built a reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young coaches.
His deep understanding of Liverpool’s culture, combined with his tactical reputation and experience at elite clubs, makes him an appealing option for the club’s leadership.
Widening their buffer at the top of the Premier League table in midweek and now currently holding a seven-point buffer over bitter title foes Manchester City, Arsenal are still on course to complete an iconic quadruple-winning campaign in 2026. Sat firmly in the driving seat to end their over two decade wait for a domestic […]
Oliver Glasner is confident Crystal Palace are “going in the right direction” after coming from behind to earn a stunning 3-1 victory over 10-man Tottenham. Ismaila Sarr had a goal ruled out for a marginal offside before Dominic Solanke put Spurs in front. However, things soon unravelled for the hosts as Micky van de Ven […]
Dominic Solanke insisted there was no time for Tottenham to make excuses after their relegation fears worsened following a 3-1 defeat to Crystal Palace on Thursday. Solanke had opened the scoring in the 34th minute for Igor Tudor’s team, only for Micky van de Ven’s red card four minutes later to turn the contest on […]
Widening their buffer at the top of the Premier League table in midweek and now currently holding a seven-point buffer over bitter title foes Manchester City, Arsenal are still on course to complete an iconic quadruple-winning campaign in 2026. Sat firmly in the driving seat to end their over two decade wait for a domestic […]
As noted by Falk in his latest column, Olise is currently under contract with Bayern until 2029, which means it’s not exactly a desperate situation for the club to give him a new deal.
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At the same time, however, the German journalist suggested it could be a risky game for Bayern to play after finding themselves having to scramble late on to tie Dayot Upamecano down to a new contract.
It may well be that Bayern would be taking a risk not sorting this out sooner, as there will surely be clubs like Liverpool and Man City continuing to keep a close eye on Olise’s situation and perhaps ready to offer him better terms.
Michael Olise transfer insight from Bayern Insider Christian Falk
“Michael Olise is currently on a contract running until 2029, and Bayern Munich would love to have him sign a new contract until 2031. But this all takes time. With three years left on Olise’s current terms, Bayern have time on their hands,” Falk wrote.
“But, of course, they also heard that Liverpool are interested and Manchester City is watching the player. But they also have the Konrad Laimer contract negotiations to think about, the Harry Kane negotiations… It’s a complicated situation. What if you sign one player until 2031 and then the others say, ‘Hey, I want a longer contract’?
“It’s a bit of a dangerous game; the longer you wait, the more it invites other clubs to pick up the phone and call the player. Michael Olise isn’t, at the moment, one of the top earners (picking up around €15m [£13m]. Jamal Musiala and Harry Kane perhaps earn about €10m more.
“Bayern can always give the right winger more money, but the longer they wait, the more complicated the situation becomes. Bayern don’t want another “Upamecano case”. Nobody wants that!”
Tottenham legend Glenn Hoddle has suggested he’d be ready to step in and replace the struggling Igor Tudor as manager.
Spurs have made an awful start under interim manager Tudor, who was brought in to replace Thomas Frank as the north London club hover dangerously close to the relegation zone.
There’s now only one point in it as Tottenham lost 3-1 at home to Crystal Palace last night, while West Ham picked up a crucial win away to Fulham at the weekend.
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It probably wouldn’t be wise for Spurs to make yet another change after barely giving Tudor any time, but it’s also easy to imagine that Hoddle would be a popular choice among the club’s fans.
Glenn Hoddle on potential return as Tottenham manager
Hoddle is one of Tottenham’s all-time great players, and he also had a spell as manager with the north Londoners between 2001 and 2003.
Speaking on the FA Cup podcast Could It Be Magic, Hoddle hinted he’d be tempted to return to management after a long spell out, describing Spurs as particularly tempting as he’s supported them ever since he was a young child.
“I think it would actually. Particularly with Tottenham, as that’s my club,” Hoddle said, as quoted by the Daily Mail.
“I’ve supported them since I was eight years of age. So they were a massive part of my life.”
Looking back at his previous spell with THFC, he added: “I managed them probably at the wrong time, I’ve got to say. Let’s put it that way.
“Politically and financially, there wasn’t money there. Certainly, it wasn’t what they told me I was going into.”
Tottenham’s remaining fixtures
Liverpool (A) Nottingham Forest (H) Sunderland (A) Brighton (H) Wolves (A) Aston Villa (A) Leeds (H) Chelsea (A) Everton (H)
How many points do you realistically see THFC getting from these games? Let us know your thoughts on their current predicament and your predictions for the end of this season in the comments below!
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The Magpies have still found a role for Trippier on a regular basis this season, with the veteran defender continuing to do his job well even if he’s now more of a squad player than an automatic starter.
Trippier performed well in the win over Manchester United this week, with Newcastle manager Howe singling him out for praise afterwards.
Eddie Howe praises Kieran Trippier performances
“It was, I mean, vintage Kieran, really. He was feeling cramped and feeling the effects of the speed of the game, as a number of our players were,” Howe said, as quoted by the Shields Gazette.
“And that’s where you’ve got to remember he’s playing every week. It’s a tough physical challenge for someone who’s 21, let alone someone who’s Kieran’s age.
“I thought he was magnificent for us today. Not just in how he played, but his experience, his game management, his know-how, his little things that people might not see. His experience is invaluable to us. So big congratulations to him.”
Kieran Trippier still set to leave Newcastle
The report from the Shields Gazette notes that Trippier is still set to leave St James’ Park at the end of this season when his contract expires.
The 35-year-old clearly still has a lot of quality and could have plenty to offer to a Premier League club, though it’s perhaps hard to see him earning a new NUFC deal.
Newcastle will likely want to continue to build around a younger player in Tino Livramento, who should soon be back from injury and starting ahead of Trippier again.
It’s still not clear where Trippier could end up next, but it will undoubtedly be a big story to watch out for this summer.
Jurgen Klopp has emerged as a surprising name in discussions surrounding Atletico Madrid’s managerial future, according to reports from Spanish outlet El Chiringuito TV.
The former Liverpool manager has been mentioned as a potential candidate to replace Diego Simeone should the long-serving Argentine coach depart the club.
Simeone remains firmly in charge at Atletico, but speculation about the club’s long-term direction has intensified in recent months.
If Atletico eventually decide to usher in a new era, Klopp’s profile, built on high-intensity football and major trophy success, makes him an interesting option for one of Spain’s biggest clubs.
Jurgen Klopp is currently working at Red Bull
Since stepping away from Liverpool at the end of the 2023/24 season, Klopp has taken on a different challenge within football.
The German accepted a senior leadership role as Head of Global Soccer at Red Bull, overseeing the strategic direction of several clubs within the company’s football network.
The position allows Klopp to influence sporting decisions, recruitment strategies, and coaching philosophies across clubs such as RB Leipzig, Red Bull Salzburg and others.
After years of operating under the intense demands of elite football management, he has embraced the opportunity to spend more time with family and attend personal events.
Jurgen Klopp left Liverpool in 2024 (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
Simeone has been Atletico Madrid’s defining figure for more than a decade.
Since taking charge in 2011, he has transformed the club into one of Europe’s most competitive teams, winning La Liga titles in 2014 and 2021, as well as reaching two Champions League finals.
Yet every long managerial era eventually faces questions about succession.
Atletico’s leadership may eventually consider a different style of football as the squad evolves, and Klopp’s high-energy pressing philosophy would represent a dramatic stylistic shift.
The German has been mentioned as a potential future candidate for the German national team job, depending on the long-term plans for Julian Nagelsmann, and his name has occasionally appeared in speculation surrounding other elite clubs.
Manchester United are continuing to track the progress of Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos as they evaluate potential reinforcements for the centre of the pitch ahead of the summer transfer window.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, the Red Devils remain interested in the 21-year-old Brazilian, whose development at Stamford Bridge has not gone unnoticed across the Premier League.
Santos has emerged as an increasingly important figure in Chelsea’s midfield under head coach Liam Rosenior.
His rise has made him one of the club’s most important young players, while also placing him firmly on the radar of clubs seeking dynamic midfield talent.
Santos has performed well under Rosenior
Santos’ career trajectory has been closely linked with Rosenior in recent seasons.
The two previously worked together during the Brazilian’s loan spell at Strasbourg, where the midfielder enjoyed a breakout campaign in Ligue 1.
Santos scored 10 goals during that season, helping Strasbourg secure qualification for the UEFA Conference League and establishing himself as one of the league’s standout young midfielders.
After returning to Chelsea, Santos initially struggled for consistent opportunities under former manager Enzo Maresca.
His first senior appearance for the club came at the FIFA Club World Cup, but regular minutes proved difficult to come by during the early stages of the campaign.
That situation changed significantly following Rosenior’s arrival.
Man United hold long term interest in the midfielder
Andrey Santos in action for Chelsea (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
Man United’s interest in Santos is not entirely new. Jacobs reports that the club first explored his situation during discussions involving Alejandro Garnacho in previous negotiations between the two sides.
United’s recruitment team are currently analysing midfield options as part of their ongoing squad rebuild.
However, it remains unclear whether Chelsea would consider selling.
The London club reportedly rejected approaches from Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah last summer, while several European teams also expressed interest.
I’m aware there has been a report doing the rounds about Arsenal needing to make a major sale this summer, and I’ve just finished some calls to my sources close to the agents industry.
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From what I’m hearing, however, it’s not likely that Ethan Nwaneri or Myles Lewis-Skelly will be leaving. Things could change, of course, but the people I spoke to were not aware of that as a concrete possibility. Nwaneri’s loan move was intended to provide the young midfielder with experience rather than putting him in the shop window, and both he and Lewis-Skelly only recently signed new long-term contracts.
Martin Odegaard transfer won’t come cheap
What’s important to note about Odegaard’s situation is that he is not pushing for a move and Arsenal will only sell if the price is right.
The situation should become clearer soon, but there is understandable interest in the Norway international, whose asking price could be as high as €100m. After an injury-hit season and a slight loss of form, however, sources expect clubs to try negotiating for less than that. That’s where the uncertainty lies, and where other players’ futures can also be significant.
Martinelli, by contrast, is likely to be available for more like €65m. As things stand, he looks more likely to leave, and it’s possible that if, for example, White were also to move on, that would be enough to balance the books sufficiently so that Odegaard’s exit was not also required.
Which clubs are chasing Odegaard and Martinelli?
One source told me: “Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid will be interested in Odegaard’s situation. A lot would depend on the structure of the deal, but expect them to be there.”
This has been confirmed by other sources as well, with no mention yet of Premier League clubs. Arsenal, in any case, would certainly prioritise a sale abroad.
With Martinelli, Barca and Atletico have again been mentioned by multiple sources. Much will depend on what happens with Marcus Rashford, who is on loan at the Nou Camp and likely to join permanently, albeit without a full agreement in place yet.
Juventus are reportedly preparing an ambitious transfer strategy for the upcoming summer window, with Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali emerging as their primary target.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Italian giants could attempt to bring the 25-year-old back to Serie A if they secure qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
Juventus sit sixth in the Serie A table, four points behind fourth-placed Roma in the race for the final Champions League spot.
That gap makes the closing months of the campaign crucial not only for sporting reasons but also for the club’s ability to attract top-level reinforcements.
Tonali, viewed as one of Italy’s most complete midfielders, has been identified as a potential cornerstone of Juventus’ midfield rebuild.
Tonali has enjoyed a meteoric rise at Newcastle United
Since joining Newcastle United from AC Milan in 2023, Tonali has grown into a key figure in Eddie Howe’s midfield.
His passing range, his work rate and his composure on the ball is crucial for Howe’s team.
He is capable of dictating tempo from deep positions while also contributing defensively with aggressive pressing and ball recoveries.
Those attributes have made him one of Newcastle’s most valuable assets and a player the club are unlikely to sell easily.
However, reports in Italy suggest Juventus believe a fee in the region of €75 million could be required to convince the Premier League side to consider negotiations.
Each of those clubs is believed to be exploring midfield reinforcements for different reasons.
Arsenal continue to strengthen their squad depth, Manchester United are planning a long-term midfield evolution, and Real Madrid are constantly evaluating options as they reshape their engine room for the future.
Real Madrid are reportedly preparing an ambitious move in the upcoming summer transfer window, with the club identifying Manchester City midfielder Rodri and Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck as key targets.
According to Spanish radio station Onda Cero, the Spanish giants have set aside around €100 million to pursue the two players as part of their ongoing squad evolution.
Madrid’s recruitment strategy continues to focus on strengthening both midfield and defence while maintaining a balance between experienced leaders and emerging talents.
Rodri and Schlotterbeck are seen as players who could immediately improve the squad while also contributing to the club’s long-term project.
Real Madrid want Man City star as their midfield anchor
Rodri celebrates a goal for Manchester City (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)
Rodri has been one of the most influential midfielders in world football during his time at Man City.
The Spanish international has become synonymous with Pep Guardiola’s system, acting as the team’s deep-lying orchestrator and defensive shield.
Although players like Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni have formed the backbone of the new generation, the club is still keen to add a specialist holding midfielder with Rodri’s experience.
Real Madrid are also assessing their defensive options. Borussia Dortmund centre-back Schlotterbeck has emerged as a strong candidate, with journalist Matteo Moretto reporting that the German defender is aware of Madrid’s interest and would be eager to move to Spain if the opportunity arises.
Schlotterbeck has built a reputation in the Bundesliga as a composed ball-playing defender with strong positional awareness and leadership qualities.
Real Madrid’s reported €100 million plan shows the club’s commitment to maintaining competitiveness at the highest level.
By targeting Rodri and Schlotterbeck, the Spanish giants are attempting to strengthen two crucial areas of the pitch simultaneously.
Arsenal and Manchester United are reportedly eyeing up Hertha BSC wonderkid Kennet Eichhorn, according to German football journalist Christian Falk.
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Writing in his latest column for CF Bayern Insider, Falk discussed Eichhorn’s future as it looks like he’s already very highly rated and attracting plenty of interest.
Arsenal and Man Utd have been named as being among the 16-year-old’s suitors, while Falk also mentioned interest from Bayern Munich and other Bundesliga clubs.
It’s clear that Eichhorn is already thought of very highly, with Falk expressing just how much there are top teams who are already prepared to do what they can to add him to their squads.
Kennet Eichhorn has drawn comparisons to midfield greats
As per the teenager’s Wikipedia page, Eichhorn seems to base his game around his midfield idols like Sergio Busquets, Toni Kroos, and Kevin De Bruyne.
Eichhorn’s playing style sounds very much like Busquets as he is primarily a defensive midfielder, but with the quality on the ball to dictate play from deep.
He is probably not as flashy as someone like De Bruyne, but he has the intelligence and composure of someone like Kroos, and that bodes very well for his career ahead.
Who’s trying to sign Kennet Eichhorn?
Discussing Eichhorn’s situation, Falk said: “It is TRUE: Bayern have communicated their concrete interest in Kennet Eichhorn to his advisors.
Kennet Eichhorn (Foto von City-Press GmbH Bildagentur)
“He’s one of the biggest talents in Germany – and at only 16 years of age! This is quite something that such a young player can already be so helpful in his team. He’s so good, in fact, that Bayern are determined not to lose him to a rival (domestic or otherwise).
“Other clubs are, of course, focusing on him; Arsenal, Manchester United and some other Premier League clubs are among them. But there are also several Bundesliga clubs keeping an eye on Eichhorn’s situation.
“He has a release clause, which makes a summer move more than possible. Bayern Munich are thinking that if he makes a move to the Bundesliga, there’s always a chance for the Bavarians to get the player eventually. But if the talent gets lost to the Premier League, it then becomes a lot harder to get him back to Germany.
“Eichhorn is at the same agency as Jamal Musiala. They’re always in talks with his agency. It’s not an offer, but Bayern have made it plainly clear that if Kennet Eichhorn fancies a move in the summer, they’re ready and waiting to make something happen.
“They want to be given advance notice if he wants to leave Hertha Berlin. They want the player – they don’t want to lose him. Bayern Munich are concretely interested. However, should he wish to spend another year in Berlin tending to his development, that would be okay for Bayern. But it would be unacceptable to lose him to the Premier League.”
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Goretzka is coming towards the end of his time at Bayern, with his contract due to expire so he becomes a free agent this summer.
Arsenal had an interest in the experienced Germany international in January, but it seems the player was keen to see out his contract and end the season at the Allianz Arena.
Christian Falk on Leon Goretzka to Arsenal transfer
“It is TRUE: Arsenal are currently leading the race for Leon Goretzka,” Falk said.
“This is indeed true from Goretzka’s point of view. The Gunners didn’t make an offer in January, but they did signal that they were aware of the fact that Goretzka was considering a move away from Bayern.
“There were very concrete talks with Atletico Madrid – their sporting director was in Munich. The player’s goal is to move to the Premier League; he would love to play for Arsenal. Of course, he can’t guarantee that Arsenal will come back again in the summer with a concrete offer.
“In his heart, he feels this would be a perfect next club. I heard he loves the Premier League and his playing style suits English football.
“However, he’s not focused on one club and only one club this summer. If Arsenal are there, he’d be more than happy to sit at the table and listen to offers. Tottenham are also interested, and that could be an option, but Spurs are not as attractive an option as Arsenal right now. Arsenal are playing very well at the moment, and they’re in the Champions League.
“For Leon Goretzka, it would be a great thing to win the Champions League with another club. So, we have to wait and see if Arsenal make an offer!”
Leon Goretzka can give Arsenal more midfield depth
Arsenal have a strong squad this season, but one area they’re arguably lacking a little is in central midfield, so Goretzka could have an important role to play.
Both Thomas Partey and Jorginho left at the end of last season, and although Mikel Arteta brought in Christian Norgaard from Brentford, he’s barely featured this term.
Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice is clearly Arsenal’s first choice partnership, but they could do with more rotation options, and an experienced player like Goretzka seems ideal.
Arsenal are already laying the groundwork for their future.
Ecuador international Piero Hincapie is set to join Mikel Arteta’s squad on a permanent deal from Bayer Leverkusen at the conclusion of the current season, according to The Sun.
It signals a clear statement of intent from the North London club as they continue to refine a squad built for sustained domestic and European dominance.
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Hincapie’s trajectory over the past few years has firmly established him as one of Europe’s premier defensive talents.
Rising to global prominence during Bayer Leverkusen’s historic, invincible Bundesliga triumph under Xabi Alonso, the Ecuadorian has consistently demonstrated a tactical quality well beyond his years.
His natural left-footedness makes him an incredibly valuable commodity in today’s game.
For Arsenal, this signing would be a tactical masterstroke that perfectly aligns with Arteta’s fluid, physically imposing system.
While the Gunners already boast a formidable central defensive partnership in William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães, the grueling demands of competing in the Premier League and the late stages of the Champions League require world-class depth.
Hincapie is a player who can play on the left-back position as well as the centre-back position, making him an ideal permanent signing for the Gunners.
As the current season draws toward its climax, Arsenal supporters have yet another reason to look forward to the 2026/27 campaign, knowing their defensive ranks are about to be strengthened even further.
O’Hara was clearly in no mood for his co-host Jason Cundy making light of the situation, with the former Chelsea man suggesting he was seeing positive signs from interim manager Igor Tudor…
Tottenham getting relegated and Cundy has managed to get O’Hara to leave the studio on TalkSport. We might be looking at an all timer sports bar ?? pic.twitter.com/LKN4PRc5pi
O’Hara said it was “pointless” having this discussion with Cundy, who was clearly enjoying himself a bit as he wore a strange, blurry-looking Ange Postecoglou mask.
Tottenham are in real danger of relegation
Tottenham fans will all be feeling as fed up as O’Hara right now, with their team looking in genuine danger of an unthinkable drop to the Championship.
The north London outfit are on just 29 points from 29 games so far this season, and their remaining fixtures don’t exactly look kind.
In their final nine games, Spurs will have tests like Liverpool and Chelsea away, while it’s also hard to see them picking up points even from opponents like Aston Villa, Brighton, and Wolves.
Tottenham’s remaining fixtures
Liverpool (A) Nottingham Forest (H) Sunderland (A) Brighton (H) Wolves (A) Aston Villa (A) Leeds (H) Chelsea (A) Everton (H)
How many points do you realistically see THFC getting from these games? Let us know your thoughts on their current predicament and your predictions for the end of this season in the comments below!
Tottenham are preparing for a crucial summer that could define the club’s immediate future, with several managerial candidates already under consideration.
According to GiveMeSport, former Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino and Italian tactician Roberto De Zerbi have emerged as the leading names on Tottenham’s shortlist should the club appoint a new permanent manager at the end of the season.
However, the club’s precarious position in the Premier League table could change things in the future.
Tottenham remain locked in a tense relegation battle, and their league status could significantly influence the type of manager they ultimately pursue.
Pochettino is the fan favourite for next manager choice
Pochettino’s potential return to north London would undoubtedly capture the imagination of Tottenham supporters.
During his previous spell at the club between 2014 and 2019, the Argentine transformed Spurs into consistent Champions League contenders and led them to the 2019 Champions League final.
His philosophy of high-intensity pressing, youth development, and attacking football earned widespread admiration. Many fans still view his departure as the end of one of Tottenham’s most exciting eras in modern times.
De Zerbi represents a very different but equally intriguing option. The Italian coach has earned praise across Europe for his sophisticated tactical approach and emphasis on possession-based football.
His work in the Premier League with Brighton previously showcased his ability to develop young players while implementing a distinctive style of play.
Tottenham’s recruitment team reportedly admire De Zerbi’s progressive philosophy and believe his approach could help modernise the team’s playing identity.
Arsenal and Manchester United are reportedly among the clubs looking set to battle it out over the transfer of Fulham wonderkid Samuel Amissah this summer.
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The highly-rated young Englishman is seemingly expected to be on the move this summer, with interest being reported from other Premier League clubs and some European giants.
Arsenal, Man United, and Chelsea are among Amissah’s main suitors in England, while Ajax, Juventus, and Marseille are also mentioned by the Telegraph.
Amissah can play defensive midfield or defence, so it looks like he has qualities he could bring to a lot of top teams straight away, even if he’s still learning the game.
Youngsters like Samuel Amissah tipped to move in changing transfer landscape
The Telegraph notes that Amissah is likely to be on the move in a summer transfer window that could be dominated by similar deals.
The report mentions similar recent deals, such as Rio Ngumoha and Ayden Heaven moving between Premier League clubs on the cheap and quickly gaining a lot of market value.
It makes sense in this era of PSR that clubs would be eager to have the opportunity to sign young players on the cheap and quite quickly be able to sell them for a considerable profit.
Young players being discovered earlier
Amissah is not yet a particularly big name, but he’s been involved in Fulham’s first-team this season, being named on the bench seven times by manager Marco Silva.
Mateus Mane has also enjoyed a breakthrough season with Wolves, while the Telegraph notes that Man United youngster JJ Gabriel has been quite well known since he was just 14.
In the modern era, fans can use the internet to find out more about their favourite young players than used to be possible in the past, and the dynamics of the market now also mean they’re seeing more involvement earlier and earlier.
After sharing several seasons at FC Barcelona and Inter Miami, Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets have established a historic record in soccer history.
Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets have shared practically a lifetime on the pitch, first taking their earliest steps together at FC Barcelona, and then reuniting at the twilight of their careers on the other side of the Atlantic with Inter Miami. Beyond the countless trophies won along the way, the Messi-Busquets partnership has now cemented itself in the history books with a remarkable record.
It all began in 2008, when Messi was already emerging as one of the game’s most exciting talents and a 20-year-old Busquets, a product of La Masia, was still working to earn his place on the biggest stage. In the 2008-09 season, Pep Guardiola’s first in charge at the Camp Nou, the new manager turned to one of his former B team players, handing Busquets his debut on September 13 in a 1-1 draw against Racing Santander, the first time the two shared a pitch together.
From that point on, Messi evolved into arguably the greatest forward in soccer history, while Busquets reinvented the defensive midfielder position with a style so unique that no one has quite managed to replicate it. By the time of Messi’s emotional departure from Barcelona in 2021, the two had shared the pitch together for the Blaugrana on 569 occasions.
Their reunion came in 2023, when both arranged moves to Inter Miami, a franchise that was struggling at the bottom of the MLS standings at the time. Together, they helped transform the Herons into one of the league’s powerhouses, contributing to Leagues Cup, Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup glory across the 84 games they shared in South Florida before Busquets made the decision to retire last season.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF celebrates with Jordi Alba #18 and Sergio Busquets #5.
Messi, Busquets, and a record that will be tough to break
When combining their appearances together at Barcelona and Inter Miami, Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets have been confirmed by the IFFHS as the pair who have played the most games alongside each other in soccer history, with a staggering total of 653. The number speaks not only to their extraordinary chemistry, but to the remarkable consistency and longevity of one of the sport’s most iconic partnerships.
To put it in perspective, one of Messi’s most prolific attacking partners, Luis Suárez, has shared the pitch with the Argentine just 324 times according to Transfermarkt, fewer than half the appearances Busquets managed alongside him.
The previous record holders were Busquets himself and Gerard Piqué who made their Barcelona debuts at the same time as Busquets made his alongside Messi in 2008. With both playing not only at Barcelona but also as key figures in one of the greatest Spain national team sides in history, the two accumulated 533 club appearances together and another 87 with La Roja, for a combined total of 620, falling 33 short of the Messi-Busquets mark.
Third on the all-time list are Bayern Munich and Germany legends Gerd Müller and Sepp Maier, the striker and goalkeeper duo who shared 14 seasons to accumulate 611 games together. The only current pair with any realistic chance of threatening the list is Thomas Müller and Manuel Neuer, also on 611, but with Müller now at Vancouver and Neuer still at Bayern, adding to their tally would require one to follow the other, an increasingly unlikely scenario given where both find themselves in the final chapters of their careers.
Lionel Messi #10 and Sergio Busquets #5 of Inter Miami CF.
With the move to the MLS currently stalled, Orlando City are reportedly offering Antoine Griezmann a salary that challenges the one from league star Lionel Messi.
Antoine Griezmann has been one of the defining names of the 2026 MLS primary transfer window, with Orlando City making a determined push to bring the French star to North America. While the move appears to have hit a significant snag, reports indicate the Lions have tabled a contract offer that would make Griezmann one of the highest-paid players in the league, rivaling even Lionel Messi‘s earnings.
With Marco Pašalić and Martín Ojeda already in the fold, Orlando still have one Designated Player slot to fill as the 2026 season gets underway. Holding Griezmann’s discovery rights and well aware of his long-documented admiration for MLS and American culture, the club has made him their primary target for the current transfer window, which closes later this month. But completing the deal is proving to be far more complicated than anticipated.
According to ESPN, Griezmann has put his potential move to Orlando City on hold. Atlético Madrid’s run to the 2025-26 Copa del Rey final, secured after eliminating FC Barcelona in the semifinals, has given the Frenchman pause, presenting him with the opportunity to end his decade-long association with the club on the highest possible note.
The Copa del Rey final will pit the Colchoneros against Real Sociedad at La Cartuja in Seville on April 18. That date falls well beyond the MLS transfer window deadline of March 26, forcing Griezmann into a decision: commit to Orlando City in the coming days, or wait and explore a summer move instead.
Antoine Griezmann of Atletico de Madrid.
A massive salary that almost reaches Lionel Messi’s
In an effort to tip the scales in their favor, Orlando City are prepared to make a significant financial statement. As reported by Matteo Moretto on Radio Marca, the club’s contract offer to Griezmann falls in the range of 10 million to 15 million euros, which works out to roughly 7 million euros net after taxes.
For context, the MLSPA’s 2025 Salary Guide lists Lionel Messi with a base salary of $12 million and a total compensation of $20,446,667. At the top end of Orlando’s reported offer, approximately $17.4 million, Griezmann would sit just around $3 million shy of what Inter Miami’s star earns in total compensation.
That figure would also place him as the second-highest earner in the entire league. That spot is currently held by LAFC’s Son Heung-min, who carries a base salary of $10.4 million and total compensation of $11.2 million. With Sergio Busquets now retired, Atlanta United’s Miguel Almirón sits third at $7.9 million in total compensation, making clear just how extraordinary Orlando’s offer would be for a franchise of their size.
Antoine Griezmann of Atletico de Madrid and Lionel Messi #10 of the Inter Miami.
After Mauricio Pochettino revealing his expectations for the 2026 World Cup with the USMNT, Chicago Fire boss and former coach of the national team Gregg Berhalter highlighted the squad experience as one of the key factors for it.
Mauricio Pochettino has set an ambitious target for the USMNT, openly admitting that his goal is nothing short of winning the 2026 World Cup on home soil. Underlining that bold declaration, Chicago Fire head coach and former USMNT boss Gregg Berhalter identified squad experience as one of the most critical factors in turning that dream into reality.
Speaking on The High Performance Podcast, Pochettino revealed that he told U.S. President Donald Trump he believes the USMNT can win the World Cup. “When we accepted the challenge to go there, it was because we really believe that we can win it. After a year and a half working there, people start to feel that we can win. The last few camps in October and November… we competed against very good teams and we started to show that possibility to perform well,” he stated.
“I love it. I mean, that’s the mentality we need, right? We go into any tournament, and you believe you can win. And I think that’s the most important thing for the mindset of any group entering a tournament,” Berhalter said.
Timmy Tillman #14 of the United States speaks to head coach Mauricio Pochettino.
The Chicago boss echoed Pochettino’s confidence, going as far as to say the USMNT “can beat any team in the world,” while expressing genuine enthusiasm about the direction of the program. “I think it shows intention,” Berhalter added, signaling his belief in the squad’s untapped potential.
The former national team coach also stressed the value of the experience accumulated during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he guided the side to the Round of 16. “The group has had World Cup experience, the majority of that group. So they understand what a World Cup is like. We’ll have the home fans behind us, and I think it’s a great mindset to go into the World Cup with,” Berhalter concluded.
World Cup-proven stars and fresh legs, the bet of Pochettino
One of the moments that best illustrated the USMNT’s ceiling came during that 2022 World Cup, when Berhalter’s side held England to a 0-0 draw in the Group B clash, competing on equal terms with one of the tournament’s top contenders and the reigning European champions at the time.
That squad carried genuine quality, with the vast majority of players plying their trade in European clubs from the top five leagues. Berhalter’s starting lineup against England featured Matt Turner, Tim Ream, Walker Zimmerman, Antonee Robinson, Sergino Dest, Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah, Timothy Weah, Haji Wright and Christian Pulisic.
Since then, the talent pool has grown considerably. New additions with European pedigree such as Mark McKenzie, Malik Tillman and Chris Richards have entered the picture, while Pochettino has also opened the door to MLS-based players including Matt Freese, Diego Luna and Gregg’s son Sebastian Berhalter, among others. The blueprint is clear: pair the World Cup-tested core from 2022 with a wave of hungry newcomers, and send a confident, well-rounded USMNT into battle in front of its home fans.
Head coach of United States Mauricio Pochettino (L) and Gregg Berhalter (R), Head Coach of the Chicago Fire FC.
Ismaila Sarr piled further misery on Tottenham as his first-half brace helped Crystal Palace to a 3-1 win over Igor Tudor’s team, who also saw captain Micky van de Ven sent off. After Nottingham Forest drew with Manchester City and West Ham won at Fulham on Wednesday, Spurs were unable to respond, and they remain […]
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.
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.”
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr
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.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal reacts
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.
Cristiano Ronaldo (left) and Christian Pulisic (right)
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.
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.
Kylian Mbappe #9 of Real Madrid C.F. and Vitinha #17 of Paris Saint-Germain.
“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.
Vitinha (L) and Cristiano Ronaldo (R) of Portugal.
As he prepares to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with South Korea, Son Heung-min has revealed his favorite legend in the tournament’s history.
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.
Amid the major uncertainty surrounding Bernardo Silva, Manchester City have reportedly decided to pursue a midfield reinforcement. For this reason, Pep Guardiola appears to be leading the race against Manchester United for a Bundesliga star valued at €70 million.
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.
Felix Nmecha of Borussia Dortmund runs with the ball during the Bundesliga match.
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.
Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City and Michael Carrick, Manager of Manchester United.
The General Manager of Los Angeles Galaxy addressed the possibility of signing Philippe Coutinho.
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.
Riqui Puig is one of LA Galaxy’s biggest stars.
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.
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.
Philippe Coutinho left Vasco da Gama earlier this year.
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.
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.
Christian Pulisic #10 of the United States.
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.
The top 25 greatest American soccer players of all time per Sports Illustrated
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.
Christian Pulisic and Landon Donovan of the United States.
Thinking ahead of the 2026 World Cup, France national team has reportedly taken a decision on Kylian Mbappé’s presence in the upcoming March international window.
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.
Didier Deschamps, Head Coach of France, celebrates with Kylian Mbappe.
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.
he 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.
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.
im Ream #13, Weston McKennie #8, Christian Pulisic #10, and Antonee Robinson #5 of USMNT
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.”
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF celebrates after scoring against Nashville SC.
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.”
Lionel Messi (left) and Weston McKennie, Christian Pulisic (right)
Tyler Adams has managed to establish himself as one of the most solid defensive midfielders in the Premier League. As a result, the USMNT star is reportedly attracting attention from major English teams in a potential post-2026 World Cup move.
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, theUSMNT 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.
Tyler Adams of AFC Bournemouth during the Premier League match.
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.
AFC Bournemouth player Tyler Adams in action during the Premier League match.
Lionel Messi will play another edition of the Leagues Cup with Inter Miami.
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.
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.
Seattle Sounders are the reigning Leagues Cup champions.
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.
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 […]
FIFA will be implementing for the first time in the World Cup two guaranteed cooling breaks for the 2026 edition, prompting questions on how these will work.
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.
Federico Dimarco #32 of FC Internazionale Milano wipes his head with a towel during a cooling break in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.
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.
The French forward has delivered goals and decisive performances throughout the season, but this season has been dominated by uncertainty surrounding his knee woes.
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.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid celebrates scoring a goal in LaLiga.
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.
Despite Michael Carrick’s strong impact at Manchester United, they are reportedly still searching for a candidate. In light of this, Gareth Bale and Paul Scholes have dared to name an ‘ideal’ manager to lead the Red Devils for the upcoming season.
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.
Head coach Carlo Ancelotti of Brazil.
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.
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.
Former Real Madrid C. F. star Gareth Bale and Manchester United legend Paul Scholes.
Despite the many rumors surrounding Kylian Mbappé’s injury, Real Madrid remain quite optimistic about his imminent return in a couple of weeks. In light of the situation, legend Luis Figo offered heartfelt advice to the French star as he continues his recovery process.
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.
“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.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid celebrates scoring a goal in LaLiga.
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.
Qatar are still not ready to give up their bid to host the Finalissima between Argentina and Spain, which would feature Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi as the main attractions.
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.”
Argentina are the reigning Finalissima champions.
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.
Spain's Lamine Yamal and Argentina's Lionel Messi.
While Ángel Di María has stepped away from Argentina, he remains attentive to the development of his former teammates. For that reason, the 2022 World Cup winner delivered strong criticism of Atlético Madrid's handling of their stars, such as Julián Álvarez, exposing their weaknesses.
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.
Julian Alvarez of Atletico de Madrid celebrates scoring against FC Barcelona.
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.
Angel Di Maria of Argentina and Julian Alvarez of Atletico de Madrid.
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As the club navigates a demanding stretch of fixtures, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa has attempted to reassure supporters that progress is being made.
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.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid CF reacts during the UEFA Champions League.
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.
Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe and Alvaro Arbeloa, Head Coach.
With Real Madrid facing serious midfield problems, they have reportedly set their sights on Vitinha, who is seen as a potential solution to their issues. In response, the PSG star has decided to shut down all the rumors at their source, delivering some emphatic words.
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.
Kylian Mbappe #9 of Real Madrid C.F. and Vitinha #17 of Paris Saint-Germain.
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.
Vitinha of Paris Saint-Germain looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League.
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.
FLORENCE, ITALY – JUNE 07: Marco Verratti of Italy warms up during training session at Forte Village Resort on June 07, 2023 in Santa Margherita di Pula, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
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.
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 Saudi Pro League has reportedly issued a key message to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, Karim Benzema's Al Hilal, and the rest of the clubs regarding the continuation of the competition.
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.“
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr
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.
With Kylian Mbappe as the main face, Real Madrid are heading to the Round of 16 Champions League series against Manchester City with a list of six stars injured.
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.
Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid goes down with an injury.
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 can still get handed a squad boost in the 2026 MLS season with Inter Miami reportedly eyeing the signing of a young Argentine prospect.
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.
Matias Acevedo of Racing.
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
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.
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 […]
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 […]
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. […]
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 […]
Antoine Griezmann could stay after Atletico Madrid's elimination of Barcelona in the Copa del Rey semifinals.
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.”
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.
Griezmann became a legend for Atletico Madrid (Octavio Passos/Getty Images)
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.
Massimiliano Allegri’s arrival transformed AC Milan’s reality, turning them into one of the top teams in Italy. Despite this, the coach is not entirely certain about continuing with the Rossoneri, drawing interest from a LaLiga side ahead of the 2026–27 season.
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 head coach Massimiliano Allegri consoles Alexis Saelemaekers during the Serie A match.
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.
Massimiliano Allegri manager of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match.
Lionel Scaloni is reportedly interested in a La Liga player who is eligible to represent either Argentina or Spain.
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 Scaloniis 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.
Oso of Sevilla FC crosses the ball whilst under pressure from Miguel Roman of Celta Vigo.
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.
Joao Pedro was Chelsea’s hat-trick hero as the Blues came from behind to inflict a 4-1 rout on Aston Villa. The Brazil forward was also credited with an assist for Cole Palmer’s strike at Villa Park, where the visitors ended a three-match winless streak. Liam Rosenior’s side found themselves behind after just two minutes when […]
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 […]
Even though he surpassed LAFC legend Carlos Vela, Anders Dreyer has been unable to snub Lionel Messi from an unique MLS -contribution record.
Lionel Messi has already etched his name into the MLS record books in numerous ways, raising the bar for what the league’s fans have come to expect and standing as the only player in history to win back-to-back Player of the Season honors. One particularly unique goal-contribution record, however, remains his alone, even as Anders Dreyer surpasses LAFC legend Carlos Vela on the all-time list.
San Diego FC have burst out of the gates this season, sitting at the top of the league on goal difference after a crushing 5-0 win over CF Montréal and a 2-0 victory over St. Louis City. Dreyer was central to both performances, contributing two assists in the opener before adding a goal and an assist in the second.
Those contributions have elevated Dreyer to second on the all-time list for the fastest players to reach the combined milestone of 20 goals and 20 assists in MLS history. The San Diego forward hit the mark in just 36 games, a testament to the immediate and sustained impact he has made since arriving in the league in 2025.
Last season, Dreyer was the on-field engine of a San Diego side that not only reached the playoffs but topped the Western Conference and finished just four points shy of the Supporters’ Shield. The Danish star posted an exceptional 19 goals and 17 assists across 34 games in 2025, and has already added one goal and three assists in just two appearances this year.
Anders Dreyer #10 of San Diego FC battles for the ball with Brayan Vera #4 of CF Montréal.
Despite those remarkable numbers, the top spot on the list remains comfortably Messi’s. The Inter Miami star reached the 20-goal, 20-assist milestone in a staggering 26 games (six in 2023 and the following 20 in 2024) making him the fastest player ever to achieve the feat in MLS history.
Dreyer’s rise, however, has been enough to displace Carlos Vela from second place. The former LAFC standout reached the milestone in 41 games, five more than the Dane. The top five is rounded out by Italian star Sebastian Giovinco in 42 games and Kansas City Wizards legend Preki in 45, underscoring just how significant Dreyer’s achievement is — and how far ahead of the field Messi remains.
Dreyer, the leader of San Diego FC on the pitch
In under two years in North America, Anders Dreyer has established himself not only as the cornerstone of MLS’s newest franchise, but as one of the most dynamic players in the entire league.
San Diego secured Dreyer in January 2025 for a fee of around $5 million from Anderlecht, making him the club’s second Designated Player after Mexican international Hirving “Chucky” Lozano. While Lozano’s stint with the club seems to have reached a point of no return, Dreyer has more than filled the void, with his market value on Transfermarktrising from €10 million to €15 million since his arrival.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF and Anders Dreyer #10 of the San Diego FC.
Even though Ricardo Kaká announced his retirement in 2017, he has always remained closely attentive to AC Milan’s present. In a recent interview, the Brazilian star delivered a bold take Luka Modrić’s future, as the Croatian has not yet renewed his contract.
Ricardo Kaká established himself as one of the greatest players in AC Milan‘s storied history. During his time with the club, he led the team to a UEFA Champions League title and earned the prestigious Ballon d’Or. Although he announced his retirement from professional soccer in 2017, his passion for the Rossoneri endures. In that sense, the Brazilian offered a bold perspective on Luka Modric’s tenure in the Italian side, leaving a clear idea.
“It’s incredible: He still has the desire to play, calls his teammates to action, always fights, and brings energy and personality… Considering Luka’s importance to the team right now, I believe he could continue for two or three more years, but who knows: There is physical condition, and then there are the player’s decisions, his family’s needs, and the desire to return home,” Kaka said, via La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Despite arriving as a full-fledged veteran, Modrić has become one of AC Milan’s most important players. Having played 2,234 minutes, the veteran ranks as the team’s fourth-most used player. Serving as the midfield axis, the Croatian organizes the game and stands as the most influential figure on the roster, even at 40 years old. Moreover, he has become the ideal mentor for youngsters Samuele Ricci and Ardon Jashari.
Although Luka Modrić has established himself as a key figure for AC Milan, he is not entirely certain about renewing his contract. His current deal expires in June 2026 and includes a player option to extend it. However, the veteran intends to make this decision after the 2026 World Cup, as Dinamo Zagreb are also reportedly interested in signing him. Despite this, the Italian side continue working to convince the Croatian to extend his stay.
Luka Modric of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match.
AC Milan could chase Modric’s renewal with two decisive promises
The Rossoneri have managed to establish themselves as one of the top teams in Serie A. Although draws have hurt their pursuit of the league lead, they have remained ahead of sides such as Napoli, AS Roma, Como, and Juventus. Looking to sustain their strong results, AC Milan are aiming to renew Luka Modrić’s contract, and they could rely on two key factors to convince him to extend his tenure.
After having won everything throughout his career, Luka Modrić’s decision may not depend on a strong financial offer. With this in mind, the Rossoneri could attempt to secure the Croatian’s continuity by guaranteeing a spot in the UEFA Champions League and reinforcing the roster with world-class players, especially in attack. While this would not guarantee his renewal, it would bring it much closer, as a truly competitive project could tempt him.
Bayern Munich are reportedly interested in signing a forward in the event Harry Kane leaves the club.
Since arriving in Germany in the summer of 2023, Harry Kane has shown he possesses the qualities needed to fill the void left by Robert Lewandowski’s departure and lead Bayern Munich through his goal-scoring ability. However, it remains unclear what the future holds for the England striker.
Kane’s performances have turned him into an attractive target for other European giants, even though he has publicly stated that his focus remains on Bayern for now. Still, a potential move elsewhere is not the only factor the German side are weighing.
“The Munich management is anticipating all eventualities regarding Harry Kane’s (32 years old) aging and is actively preparing for his eventual departure,” FootMercato stated this week. The report adds that, as a possible long-term solution, Bayern’s attention is beginning to turn toward Victor Osimhen.
The Nigerian striker holds one clear advantage over Kane: he is considerably younger (27 compared to the England forward’s 32). That offers greater long-term projection, while his current performances suggest he can deliver immediately.
Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray.
Osimhen has recorded 17 goals and six assists in 25 appearances for Galatasaray this season across the UEFA Champions League and Turkey’s Super Lig. “These stratospheric performances have rekindled the interest of Bayern Munich, who are currently considering how to prepare for life after Harry Kane,” FootMercato added.
Kompany knows Osimhen well
Beyond his current form at Galatasaray, Victor Osimhen reached star status during his years with Napoli. Between 2020 and 2024, the Nigerian striker made 133 appearances for the Italian club, scoring 76 goals and winning the Serie A title in 2022-23.
Before his move to Italy, Osimhen impressed in the French and Belgian leagues. Because Vincent Kompany is Belgian, the Bayern Munich head coach followed Victor’s development closely during that period. “Kompany greatly admires the former Lille player, whose explosive start in Belgium with Charleroi he remembers fondly,”FootMercato reports.
In addition, a potential move to Bayern Munich would represent a second chance in the Bundesliga for Osimhen. He had his first professional experience there with Wolfsburg between 2016 and 2017. However, that stint did not unfold as planned: he made just 16 appearances over two seasons and failed to score a goal.
Harry Kane of Bayern Munich looks on during a Bundesliga game.
Former Barcelona player Arturo Vidal said he felt wronged playing against Real Madrid.
There have been many episodes in which Arturo Vidal has been at the center of controversy. He featured in El Clásico matches with Real Madrid for Barcelona, but he also faced Los Blancos during his time with Bayern Munich.
The Chilean played for the German club from 2015 to 2018, during which they were eliminated by Real Madrid twice in the Champions League. In the podcast “Show en el Fútbol” he was asked if he felt robbed every time they faced Real Madrid.
Vidal jokingly said: “Yes. They eliminated me two times. In the semifinal and in the quarterfinals with Bayern Munich. That’s why they invented VAR then. Because it was already too much.”
The background for those eliminations by Real Madrid
It is common for players to feel referees do not favor them when they lose, but the ties Vidal mentioned are widely remembered. The matches took place in the 2017-2018 semifinals and the quarterfinals the year before.
Vidal was eliminated by Real Madrid (Clive Mason/Getty Images)
In the semifinals the tie opened with a Real Madrid 2-1 victory in Germany and finished with a 2-2 draw in Madrid, which sent the Spanish side to the final, where they went on to defeat Liverpool.
Particularly the 2016-2017 quarterfinals are remembered for Vidal’s controversial red card late in regulation and for two offside goals by Cristiano Ronaldo in extra time that sealed the series.
Vidal on Lionel Messi
Vidal spent three seasons at Barcelona while Lionel Messi was still at the club. During that time he saw the Argentine up close and experienced all his talent. Vidal said: “He’s an amazing player. He’s above everybody else. I was also surprised by Frank Ribery for his strength.”
Canada U20 face Nicaragua U20 for Matchday 5 of the 2026 CONCACAF U20 Championship group stage. Discover below how to watch this game in the USA, including start times and live streaming or TV options.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Canada U20 vs Nicaragua U20 on US television and via legal streaming:
Nicaraguaare hunting for redemption following a 2-0 shutout loss to Aruba, but their path to the knockout rounds runs directly through a high-octane Canada U20squad fresh off a historic 14-0 blowout.
With the group stage at a boiling point and qualification on the line, both programs are desperate to close the opening round with a statement win, so make sure you don’t miss a single second of this high-stakes clash as these two sides battle for tournament survival.
More details on how to watch
With Fubo, you can watch Canada U20 vs Nicaragua U20 and tons more games. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, Apple TV or hook it up to your TV with Google Chromecast.
Now with Fubo, you can stream USA Network, ESPN, ESPN2, CBS, CBS Sports Network, FS1, FS2, beIN SPORTS, beIN SPORTS en Español, beIN SPORTS Connect, beIN SPORTS XTRA, NBC, CNBC, USA, FOX, FOX Soccer Plus, FOX Deportes, Telemundo, Universo and Galavision.
Plus Fubo, the legal streaming service, also streams Liga MX, World Cup, Women’s World Cup, MLS, UEFA Champions League (in Spanish), Europa League (in Spanish), Primeira Liga, Ligue Un, World Cup qualifiers, NWSL, select USMNT games, select USWNT games, select Mexico games, select England games and more.
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If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full Fubo soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
How to watch anywhere with VPN
If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.
To find out when soccer games are on, download the free Soccer TV Schedules App which includes listings of all of the live soccer matches available in the United States (available on Apple iOS devices and Android devices).
Atletico Nacional are scheduled to meet Millonarios in the first stage of the 2026 Copa Sudamericana. Supporters in the United States can watch the matchup live—here’s all the essential information on kickoff time and broadcast or streaming options.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Atletico Nacional vs Millonarios on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
Atletico Nacional vs Millonarios
WHAT
Copa Sudamericana
WHEN
7:30pm ET / 4:30pm PT • Wednesday, March 4, 2026
WHERE
Fubo, Fanatiz, beIN SPORTS, beIN SPORTS en Español and beIN SPORTS Connect
It’s win-or-go-home time in the 2026 Copa Sudamericana as Colombian heavyweights Atletico Nacional and Millonarios collide in a high-stakes opening-round showdown with just one spot in the next phase on the line.
Nacional come in riding early-season momentum from domestic play, giving them a slight edge on paper, but Millonarios’ championship pedigree and experience in pressure-packed moments could quickly flip the script. With pride, history and continental survival at stake, expect a physical, intense battle from the opening whistle.
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As Milan prepares to face Inter in another edition of the Derby della Madonnina, uncertainty clouds the build-up.
Christian Pulisic once decided this fixture with a single, instinctive touch inside the penalty area. Now, as Milan prepares to face Inter in another edition of the Derby della Madonnina, uncertainty clouds the build-up. The club enters the week knowing that the margin for error has disappeared. Inter sits top of the table, Milan chases from behind, and Sunday night’s showdown at San Siro could redefine the Scudetto battle. Yet while tactical debates rage, the real drama begins in the treatment room.
The build-up to the derby has been far from smooth. Davide Bartesaghi and Matteo Gabbia remain under medical supervision after recent muscle issues. Gabbia has already missed matches, while Bartesaghi picked up a problem that initially sparked fears of a longer absence.
Scans on the wing-back revealed no serious injury, raising hopes of a swift return. However, according to SportMediaset, Bartesaghi trained separately at Milanello despite the positive diagnosis. His status as a potential starter now hangs in the balance.
Gabbia’s situation appears even clearer: the central defender also worked alone, suggesting that Koni De Winter is increasingly likely to retain his place in the back three. For a club preparing for one of its biggest matches of the season, enforced stability at the back may prove both a necessity and a gamble.
The Pulisic problem emerges
If the defensive concerns were not enough, attention has shifted sharply toward Milan’s No. 11. As reported by Calciomercato and Corriere della Sera, Pulisic has been struggling with knee bursitis, an issue that has slowed him down in recent weeks. The inflammation has forced him to ration his efforts, and the impact on his performances has been visible.
The American has not scored or provided an assist in 2026. His missed opportunities against Parma and Cremonese have amplified scrutiny, especially considering his decisive contribution in the previous derby on November 23, when he tucked in a rebound from Alexis Saelemaekers’ shot to secure victory.
Since that moment, the league’s balance has shifted dramatically. Inter has recorded 14 wins and one draw in 15 matches, opening a 10-point advantage at the summit. The Rossoneri’s hopes of keeping the Scudetto race alive may hinge on this very fixture.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan reacts
Will Pulisic play against Inter?
With not many days remaining before kickoff, doubts about Pulisic’s starting role have intensified. The forward has not started two consecutive matches since early January and has been carefully managed due to his knee condition.
Calciomercatonotes that Massimiliano Allegri is considering changes to an attack that has struggled for productivity and efficiency in recent outings against Como, Parma, and Cremonese. Rafael Leao is certain to start, but the second attacking berth is under debate.
Christian Pulisicof AC Milan competes for the ball with Manuel Akanji of FC Internazionale
There is little doubt that Pulisic will push to be available. His competitive nature and history in this fixture make that almost certain. Yet the medical staff’s caution suggests that risking him from the outset may not be straightforward. Nkunku may now have the edge to start, with Pulisic potentially deployed as an impact substitute should his knee fail to respond fully in training.
As the report underlines, the decision may come down to balancing immediate necessity with long-term risk. Deploying the American winger from the bench, when defensive lines tire and spaces open, could maximize his impact without overburdening his knee.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan looks on prior a Serie A match
Now, as the Brazil national team prepares for another World Cup journey, the 2007 Ballon d’Or winner has spoken glowingly about his old coach.
Carlo Ancelotti and Kaka share a bond forged in the red and black of Milan and strengthened under the bright lights of Real Madrid. Now, as the Brazil national team prepares for another World Cup journey, the 2007 Ballon d’Or winner has spoken glowingly about his old coach.
Ancelotti is preparing to lead the Brazil national team into his first-ever World Cup as a head coach. The Italian tactician took charge last May following his departure from Real Madrid, guiding the Selecao through the final stretch of their qualifying campaign.
No national team boasts more World Cup titles than Brazil, with five triumphs, the most recent arriving in 2002 in Japan and South Korea. Yet since lifting that trophy, the Selecao have endured a prolonged wait for another global crown. They have advanced beyond the quarter-finals only once in that period, finishing fourth on home soil in 2014.
The weight of expectation remains immense. According to Opta’s supercomputer, Brazil has been given a 5.6% chance of winning a record-extending sixth World Cup title in the 2026 tournament hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The numbers suggest caution, but history demands belief.
Head coach Carlo Ancelotti of Brazil (L) gives instruction to Casemiro (C) during international friendly against Japan.
What did Kaka say about Ancelotti?
It is in that context that Kaka’s endorsement becomes significant. Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, he made clear his confidence in Ancelotti’s leadership: “Ancelotti is the right person at this moment for Brazil, which, given its history, is always considered amongst the favorites. Maybe not in the top three, but it’s a good team, and Carlo is Carlo.”
The remark encapsulates both realism and reverence. Kaka acknowledges that Brazil may not currently stand above every rival on paper, yet he insists that the combination of tradition and Ancelotti’s steady presence elevates the national team into the contender category.
For Kaka, this belief is shaped by personal experience. He flourished under Ancelotti at Milan, winning major honors, and later experienced the intensity of World Cup tournaments firsthand. “I’m confident, I’ve been lucky enough to play at three World Cups, and I know how exciting it can be. Having a good tournament after so many disappointments would be great for the country.”
Those words reflect not just optimism but an understanding of the emotional stakes. Brazil is a singular football nation, where the World Cup defines generations.
Kaka (L) speaks with Carlo Ancelotti (R), manager of AC Milan.
The bold prediction revealed
In the middle of his reflections, Kaka made his position clear: Brazil will be among the favourites to win the 2026 World Cup under Ancelotti’s guidance, even if they are not universally ranked in the top three pre-tournament picks.
It is a bold stance considering the recent record. Twenty-four years have passed since the last triumph. The Selecao have repeatedly fallen short in knockout rounds. Pressure, scrutiny, and expectation will follow them into North America once again.
Yet the 42-year-old midfield maestro’s faith rests heavily on the experienced tactician’s temperament. The Italian’s calm authority, tactical flexibility, and experience managing elite dressing rooms at Milan and Real Madrid are seen as crucial assets. Brazil is not merely seeking talent; it is seeking composure in decisive moments.
Michael Carrick could barely suppress a smile when asked whether questions about his chances of becoming Manchester United’s permanent head coach were now inevitable. “It’s going to be like this every week, isn’t it?” he said, after guiding United to a 2–1 victory over Crystal Palace that lifted them to third in the Premier League […]
According to Sport, Barcelona have decided to step up their efforts to sign Micky van de Ven from Tottenham Hotspur this summer. With relegation not off the table for struggling Spurs, a number of players are believed to be ready to leave the sinking ship should the drop really happen. At the moment, they are […]
Throughout the current season, Bruno Fernandes’ continuity at Manchester United has been called into question due to the team’s instability. However, the Red Devils have reportedly submitted a formal renewal offer, though the Portuguese has set a clear condition.
Bruno Fernandes has managed to remain Manchester United’s best player, shining both creatively and in front of goal. However, the team’s unstable situation supposedly led him to consider a departure. As the club’s standout performer in recent years, the Red Devils do not seem willing to let him leave. Instead, they have reportedly submitted a formal contract renewal offer to the Portuguese, who has set a clear condition.
According to The Mirror, Manchester United have decided to aggressively pursue Bruno Fernandes’ contract renewal, as his current deal runs until 2027. Seeking to compete with offers from the Saudi Pro League, they have presented a proposal worth £400,000 per week, which would make him one of the highest-paid players in the league. Although he has made his intention to remain in the team, he has imposed a firm condition.
Bruno Fernandes has opened the door to continuing at Manchester United, but he has tied that possible renewal to one requirement: The Red Devils must secure qualification for the UEFA Champions League, as money is no longer his priority. While this seemed impossible at the beginning of the season, they remain unbeaten since the arrival of Michael Carrick and currently sit third in the standings.
Although the Portuguese is already 31 years old, he has managed to remain a key piece for the Red Devils. In the current season, he has made 27 appearances, scoring seven goals and providing 14 assists. Moreover, he continues to be a central figure in the team’s tactical structure, bringing balance and also making a difference at a creative level. For that reason, his renewal is a priority for Manchester United as part of their rebuilding process.
Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United applauds the fans.
Michael Carrick’s influence could be key to Bruno’s renewal
Following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim, Bruno Fernandes was reportedly deeply disappointed, as he was experiencing yet another failure since his arrival at Manchester United. He even revealed that the Red Devils had attempted to transfer him, straining the relationship between both parties. However, Michael Carrick’s arrival appears to have changed the team’s reality, bringing the Portuguese closer to a contract renewal.
With Carrick’s arrival at the Red Devils, they have climbed to third place in the Premier League, currently sitting in a Champions League qualification spot. As a result, the Englishman appears to be emerging as the leading candidate to remain as the team’s head coach. With his continuity, Bruno’s renewal could move closer, as he has already seen that the team functioned, won, and dominated with him playing a key role in the lineup.
Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United during the Premier League match.
The United States face Canada on Matchday 2 of the 2026 SheBelieves Cup. Supporters across the country can watch every minute of the matchup, with kickoff times and full broadcast information listed here for both TV and streaming options.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch USA vs Canada on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
USA vs Canada
WHAT
English Premier League
WHEN
6:45pm ET / 3:45pm PT • Wednesday, March 4, 2026
WHERE
Peacock Premium, Telemundo, UNIVERSO, TNT USA, Watch TNT, truTV USA, HBO Max and Westwood One Sports
First place in the 2026 SheBelieves Cup will be on the line in Matchday 2 as the tournament’s only unbeaten teams square off in a matchup that could shape the title race. The United States, playing on home soil and widely viewed as the frontrunner to win it all, aims to build on its opening victory.
On the other hand, Canadaenters brimming with confidence after a commanding 4-1 win over Colombia that signaled its intent to contend. With early momentum and bragging rights at stake, this showdown has all the makings of a defining moment—don’t miss it.
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With Peacock Premium, you can watch USA vs Canada and tons more Premier League games.
Now with Peacock Premium, you can stream 175 Premier League matches per season that are exclusive to Peacock. Plus, you get access to the Premier League TV channel, which features Premier League reviews, previews, interview shows, daily news programs and classic Premier League games.
Replays of all 380 games for the season will be available to Peacock Premium subscribers. Matches will be available on replay and then for 30 days after they air.
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With three months to go before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Carlo Ancelotti has set high expectations for Brazil.
As is the case in every World Cup, Brazil are once again listed among the favorites to lift the trophy. Their storied history supports that status, as does the quality of their current squad. The 2026 edition is no exception, and head coach Carlo Ancelotti believes his team will live up to the challenge.
“It’s a joy to have time to prepare for this important event for Brazil,” Ancelotti began in a recent interview shared by Marca. “It’s a great motivation and, at the same time, a great responsibility to do as well as possible.”
The Italian coach quickly made clear his confidence in the level Brazil will reach this summer at the FIFA tournament in North America. “I am sure we are going to have a World Cup of a very high level,” Carlo said.
Expectations around Brazil are always sky-high, considering they are the only national team to have played in every World Cup in history and the most successful nation ever, with five titles.
Vinicius Junior and Raphinha of Brazil talk
For that reason, when Ancelotti promises a “high-level” performance, he understands the margin for error is virtually nonexistent. In their last three appearances, Brazil reached one semifinal and two quarterfinals, yet the overall assessment after those eliminations was still viewed as failure. This year, Brazil will need to go even further to avoid similar criticism.
Brazil are close to matching their worst title drought
As the most successful national team in world soccer history, Brazil are currently in the midst of an unusually long dry spell. Their last World Cup title came 24 years ago, when a star-studded squad featuring Ronaldo Nazario, Rivaldo, and Ronaldinho lifted the trophy at Korea-Japan 2002.
Since the creation of the FIFA tournament, only once have Brazil gone longer without winning the title. That stretch came between the first tournament — played in Uruguay in 1930 — and their first championship, claimed in Sweden 1958. Those 28 years, however, require important context: two World Cups, scheduled for 1942 and 1946, were canceled due to World War II.
Following the 1958 triumph came additional titles in 1962 and 1970, cementing Brazil as the dominant national team in the sport. However, another lengthy drought followed, one that did not end until United States 1994. Now, the Selecao have equaled that 24-year drought, and if they fail to win the title this summer, they will reach the longest championship drought in their history.
Rodrygo's serious ACL injury has reportedly opened the door for Neymar to make his return to the Brazil national team under head coach Carlo Ancelotti for the March international window.
Neymar has once again become the center of debate in Brazil, with fans divided over whether he will earn a place in the 2026 World Cup squad with fewer than 100 days until the tournament begins. Now, with Rodrygo suffering a serious injury, reports suggest that Carlo Ancelotti is strongly considering recalling Neymar to the Seleção for the March international window.
With one of his regular starters now sidelined, UOL Esporte reports that Ancelotti is giving serious thought to calling up Neymar for the upcoming March fixtures. ESPN Brasil had previously indicated that the Santos forward was not in the Italian’s plans for the games against France on March 26 and Croatia on March 31, but Rodrygo‘s injury has reportedly prompted a rethink.
Beyond Rodrygo, another potential absence could further strengthen the case for Neymar’s recall. Estevao, the top scorer of the Ancelotti era with five goals, has already missed Chelsea’s last three Premier League matches with a hamstring injury, and if he is unable to return to fitness in time, it would open the door even wider for Neymar to force his way back into the picture.
Rodrygo of Brazil (R) celebrates with Estevao (L) after scoring for Brazil.
Ancelotti and fitness as the key factor
From the moment Ancelotti took charge of Brazil, he made his stance on fitness abundantly clear. “We have very good players, but I need to choose those who are at 100%. And it’s not just about Neymar—it’s the same with Vinícius. If Vinícius is at 90%, I will call another player who is at 100%, because this team has a very, very high level of competition, especially in attack, where we have many very good players.” he said in an interview with Esporte Record back in December.
That philosophy has defined his eight games in charge of the Canarinha, and it has been the primary reason for his reluctance to bring Neymar back into the fold. With Rodrygo now ruled out and Estevao’s availability in serious doubt, however, the conditions for the former Barcelona man’s long-awaited return have never looked more favorable.
Neymar running against the clock for the March games
On the fitness front, Neymar has made encouraging progress since returning from arthroscopic surgery to address a meniscus issue, featuring in Santos’ last three matches and completing the full 90 minutes in each of the past two. Even so, the window to impress Ancelotti ahead of the squad announcement is an extremely narrow one.
Ancelotti is set to name his Brazil squad for the March window on the 16th — just 12 days away. Santos’ elimination from the Campeonato Paulista in the Round of 16 has significantly reduced Neymar’s remaining opportunities to make a case, leaving clashes against Mirassol on the 10th and Corinthians on the 15th as the only two matches available to him before the Italian coach finalizes his roster.
Neymar Jr while playing with Brazil and Carlo Ancelotti.
Real Madrid still can't see Jude Bellingham on the field, so they are trying the approach they had with Kylian Mbappé.
Injuries have been with Real Madrid in the most important part of the year. This happened to Kylian Mbappé as the Frenchman continues missing matches, while Jude Bellingham is also out.
Mbappé had a knee injury that bothered him for several matches until the club chose to take a cautious approach by sitting him out for the Benfica rematch in the Champions League. Even if the English midfielder is dealing with a muscle injury, the plan may be similar for them.
Real Madrid has decided to take Bellingham to get a second opinion on his hamstring injury. The player currently is in England with Doctor Nico Mihic, following the same step Mbappé previously took of seeking an external medical evaluation, according to Marca. The idea remains looking for ways to see him come back earlier than planned.
More about Real Madrid injuries
The list of injuries gets longer every time Real Madrid plays. With Rodrygo out for the rest of the year witha torn ACL in the La Liga match against Getafe, the attacking options for manager Álvaro Arbeloa are very reduced.
Mbappé has been dealing with a knee injury for a few weeks (Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Bellingham has been out since February 1 after leaving the field in victory over Rayo Vallecano. His time to recover was expected to be around five to six weeks, so it is not a good sign that he still does not seem close to returning.
Mbappé has been working with traumatologist Bertrand Sonnery-Cottet and the club’s trainers in Paris with a return date to the capital on Friday as reported by the Madrid outlet. His presence in the Champions League match with Manchester City on Wednesday remains unlikely for them.
Raúl Asencio nears his return
Real Madrid’s victory to Benfica in the Champions League playoff left a problem for the defense. Raúl Asencio had to leave with a head injury after a severe hit. Fortunately for the manager’s lineup plans, he was partially part of Wednesday’s training session after missing one match.
A Greek court handed the Manchester United defender a 15-month suspended prison sentence following a retrial related to an altercation on the island of Mykonos in August 2020.
When it comes to Manchester United captain Harry Maguire, the spotlight is more often on his performances. Instead, this week, attention has shifted back to a long-running legal saga in Greece, reviving questions about his 15-month suspended sentence. The incident, which traces back to a chaotic night in 2020, has lingered through appeals, retrials, and prolonged legal proceedings.
A Greek court handed the Manchester United defender a 15-month suspended prison sentence following a retrial related to an altercation on the island of Mykonos in August 2020. The hearing took place in Syros, with Maguire not required to attend in person.
The charges stemmed from an incident outside a bar during a family holiday. At retrial, the English defender faced allegations of non-serious assault, resisting arrest, and attempted bribery. He was convicted on all three counts.
This ruling reduced his original 2020 sentence of 21 months and 10 days suspended, which had been automatically nullified after he appealed under Greek law. That appeal triggered a full retrial, one that endured multiple postponements before finally concluding in March 2026.
BREAKING: Harry Maguire has been handed a 15 month suspended sentence after a guilty verdict by the Greek Courts.
Maguire has been convicted of all three counts of non-serious assault, resisting arrest and attempted bribery for an incident in Mykonos in August 2020. pic.twitter.com/hKh58xFFqZ
Throughout the process, Maguire has firmly denied wrongdoing. According to Sky Sports, his legal team plans to escalate the matter further. “His legal team will appeal to the Greek Supreme Court against the guilty verdict,” the report said.
What a suspended sentence actually means
The phrase “15-month prison sentence” naturally raises alarm. But in practice, a suspended sentence operates differently from immediate incarceration. In simple terms, Maguire will not serve prison time now, Sky Sports has explained. A suspended sentence means the prison term is imposed but not activated, provided the individual complies with the law and does not commit another offence during the suspension period.
There is no jail time and no fine attached to this retrial verdict. However, it is crucial to understand what it means. The conviction stands unless overturned on appeal. The suspended term effectively hangs over him as a legal warning. If he were to breach Greek law within the applicable period, the sentence could theoretically be activated. Thus, a suspended sentence is not the same as being cleared. It remains a conviction on record in Greece unless successfully challenged.
Harry Maguire of Manchester United
What does it mean for Manchester United and England?
From a soccer perspective, the immediate impact appears limited. Manchester United has maintained support for the defender throughout the proceedings. The club continues to select him for matches, and he remains in contention for Premier League fixtures, including the clash against Newcastle.
Historically, former England manager Sir Gareth Southgate temporarily omitted Maguire from the national squad following the original conviction. However, he later regained his place before falling out of selection after 2024 for sporting reasons rather than legal restrictions.
Harry Maguire of England in action
Sports law experts generally agree that suspended sentences rarely affect professional contracts, especially when appeals are ongoing. Travel and visa implications can vary by jurisdiction, but there has been no indication of restrictions affecting his playing career at present.
What’s more, the legal story is far from over. Maguire’s team intends to take the case to Greece’s Supreme Court, arguing procedural flaws and contesting the verdict. If the appeal succeeds, the conviction could be overturned entirely. If not, the suspended sentence remains in effect until it expires under Greek legal timelines.
Harry Maguire of Manchester United reacts as he leaves the pitch
Liverpool suffered a shock defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Tuesday, which came after four straight victories in all competitions. Here’s what head coach Arne Slot has to say about their recent run of results and their performances in those matches. “Sums up our season.” Arne Slot REACTS to Wolves defeat 👀 pic.twitter.com/6hQFt2ImCo — Hayters TV […]
Premier League leaders Arsenal have been criticized lately for basing their tactics around set-pieces, but though they have scored the most in the league from dead-ball situations, manager Mikel Arteta says he’s not happy that his team doesn’t score more, and also that they occasionally concede goals too. 🚨⛳️ Mikel Arteta: “I’m upset that we […]
According to Sport, Barcelona have decided to step up their efforts to sign Micky van de Ven from Tottenham Hotspur this summer. With relegation not off the table for struggling Spurs, a number of players are believed to be ready to leave the sinking ship should the drop really happen. At the moment, they are […]
Andre’s deflected strike in the 94th minute clinched another shock result for the Premier League’s bottom club Wolves, as they stunned Liverpool 2-1 at Molineux. Wolves boss Rob Edwards wheeled away down the touchline in celebration after Friday’s derby win over Aston Villa, and there were similar scenes when Andre’s audacious effort took a massive […]
With all eyes falling on north London on Thursday night, Tottenham have a huge amount of pressure on their shoulders when they host local rivals Crystal Palace. Breaking a string of unwanted records this season and firmly scrapping it out at the foot of the Premier League table, Spurs are at the heart of an […]
While Tottenham might have ended their 17-year wait for a piece of silverware last season as they were crowned Europa League champions, Spurs find themselves at the heart of a public domestic crisis. Breaking a string of unwanted records this season and parting ways with Thomas Frank last month, Spurs are at the heart of […]
A statistical analysis of leagues around the world over the past year places Lionel Messi at the top, ahead of stars such as Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe.
No one is surprised anymore that Lionel Messi, who is set to turn 39, remains one of the most influential players in the world. However, the fact that the numbers place him ahead of elite stars like Kylian Mbappe and Harry Kane only further underscores his remarkable impact.
The CIES Football Observatory published a study on Wednesday examining the most influential players across the 67 strongest leagues in the world over the past 365 days, based on goals and assists. Lionel Messi finished in first place, opening up a significant gap over his closest challengers.
Messi recorded 59 goal contributions with Inter Miami over the last year, totaling 37 goals and 22 assists. That figure puts him well clear of the next closest player in the ranking, Harry Kane, who posted 42 contributions (35 goals and 7 assists) with Bayern Munich.
Further down the list is another MLS player, Anders Dreyer, who registered 22 goals and 19 assists with San Diego FC over the past 365 days. His 41 goal contributions were matched by Kylian Mbappe, who scored 37 goals and added four assists with Real Madrid.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF scores a free kick against Orlando City SC.
Age is no limit for Messi
Lionel Messi’s achievement in leading this list becomes even more impressive when considering the age comparison with his main competitors. The Argentine forward is the oldest player in the top ten, less than four months away from his 39th birthday.
The players closest to him in the ranking are significantly younger: Harry Kane is 32, while Anders Dreyer and Kylian Mbappe are 27. In fact, to find a player older than Messi on the list, one must drop to 15th place, where Cristiano Ronaldo appears. At 41, he has recorded 31 goal contributions with Al Nassr over the past 365 days.
The other ranking Messi leads
The same CIES Football Observatory study also includes a different ranking system. Unlike the first list, which simply totals goals and assists, this alternative ranking factors in the relative difficulty of each league when evaluating statistical output.
To calculate that, a coefficient is created based on various criteria, such as clubs’ performances in continental and global competitions. That coefficient is then applied to goals and assists data, offering a more contextualized view of individual performance.
Even under that more complex formula, Messi remains the clear leader. With a coefficient score of 66.3, he ranks ahead of Kylian Mbappe (65.4) and Harry Kane (64.5). What makes that even more impressive is that while La Liga and the Bundesliga rank among the top leagues used to calculate the coefficient, MLS does not even crack the top ten. And yet, Messi still claims the top spot.
Inter Miami's Lionel Messi and Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe.
With Real Madrid links still growing, Jurgen Klopp’s future as Global Head of Soccer at Red Bull is reportedly being put in doubt to poor results.
Jurgen Klopp stunned the soccer world when he stepped away from the dugout to become Global Head of Soccer at the Red Bull group, despite his standing as one of the most influential coaches of his generation. Now, however, his future within the organization is reportedly in serious question, a product of underwhelming results across the group’s clubs, and persistent links to Real Madrid.
Announced on January 1, 2025 as Red Bull‘s Global Head of Soccer, Klopp was tasked with overseeing the soccer operations of a portfolio spanning six countries: RB Leipzig in Germany, Red Bull Bragantino in Brazil, the New York Red Bulls in the United States, RB Omiya Ardija in Japan, Leeds United in England and Paris FC in France, a role he was contracted to fill through December 2029.
When speculation over his future surfaced, Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff moved swiftly to shut it down. “That is complete nonsense and entirely made up. On the contrary, we are extremely satisfied with the work Jurgen Klopp is doing. He invests a great deal of time and effort, is in constant communication with our coaches and sporting directors, and continues to develop our Red Bull soccer philosophy in a sustainable way. We are convinced that he is the right man for this job. That is where we are putting all our focus and energy,” he said to Sky Germany.
Results are far from accompanying Klopp
Despite the public vote of confidence, results across the group’s flagship clubs have fallen well short of expectations since Klopp took the role. At RB Leipzig, the team sits fifth in the Bundesliga, well outside the title race and without European football to show for it, and his decision to appoint Ole Werner as head coach last summer continues to draw scrutiny.
Castello Lukeba of Leipzig.
At RB Salzburg, meanwhile, the situation has been equally disappointing. The Austrian side were eliminated in the Europa League group stage, a result that cost Thomas Letsch his job and led to the appointment of Daniel Beichler as his replacement, a chain of events that has placed Klopp squarely in the crosshairs of those questioning the direction of the project.
Against that backdrop, L’Équipe reports that Klopp’s tenure as Red Bull’s Global Head of Soccer could come to an end in the summer of 2026. The French outlet names Oliver Glasner, who has already announced he will be departing Crystal Palace at the end of the current season, as the leading candidate to succeed him in the role.
The circumstances at the Bernabéu have done little to dampen that speculation. Interim coach Álvaro Arbeloa has struggled to convince, posting a record of eight wins and four defeats in 12 games (33 percent loss rate) while also suffering back-to-back La Liga defeats against Osasuna and Getafe and a Copa del Rey elimination at the hands of second-division side Albacete. With pressure mounting on Real Madrid’s hierarchy to make a statement appointment, Klopp’s name looks set to remain firmly in the conversation heading into the summer.
Jurgen Klopp, Global Head of Soccer Red Bull group.
Despite his importance in recent years, Rodrygo is not enjoying his best season, even losing his starting role at Real Madrid. Alongside this, he suffered a season-ending ACL injury, which reportedly has its roots in a physical issue dating back to 2023.
Rodrygo Goes has managed to become one of Real Madrid’s most important players, playing a key role in several of the club’s titles. However, he is not enjoying his best season, having lost his starting spot and logging just 1,106 minutes. Amid rumors about a potential departure, the Brazilian suffered a season-ending ACL injury. Despite this, his latest setback reportedly has its roots in a physical issue he has been carrying since 2023.
According to Mario Cortegana in The Athletic, Rodrygo Goes continued playing with a partial anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered while representing Brazil in 2023. At the time, Real Madrid decided that the Brazilian would not undergo surgery and instead follow a conservative treatment plan. In light of this, experts state that while the decision was appropriate, the risk of a relapse was higher — something that ultimately occurred.
With a torn anterior cruciate ligament and a torn lateral meniscus, Rodrygo faces a recovery timeline ranging from six to nine months, meaning he will miss most of the 2026–27 season. In light of this, Real Madrid’s alleged decision not to operate on the Brazilian in 2023 is facing strong criticism, as it has not only impacted his performances in the following seasons but also significantly harmed the player.
Far from Rodrygo’s ACL injury being an isolated incident, several Real Madrid players have suffered this same setback in recent years: Thibaut Courtois, David Alaba, Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão (twice), and the Brazilian star himself. With this in mind, Los Blancos face serious questions from supporters, who are casting doubt on whether the club’s medical staff truly prioritize the health of their stars or the needs of the roster.
Rodrygo of Real Madrid
Mbappe, Bellingham act on injuries amid Real Madrid medical concerns
Unlike previous seasons, Real Madrid have struggled to find consistency among their players, stringing together a series of serious injuries. In fact, coach Álvaro Arbeloa currently has seven players sidelined, raising questions about Los Blancos’ medical services. Adding to the speculation, Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham have made a surprising decision regarding how to treat their injuries.
According to Manuel Bruña in Mundo Deportivo, Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham have decided to seek second opinions regarding their injuries. While the Frenchman is undergoing treatment in Paris, the Englishman is doing so in London. However, both players are being accompanied by the club’s medical staff. Despite this, Los Blancos maintain that the decision to consult outside specialists was made by the club, not the players.
Rodrygo of Real Madrid looks on after the Spanish Super Cup Semi-Final match.
While Tottenham might have ended their 17-year wait for a piece of silverware last season as they were crowned Europa League champions, Spurs find themselves at the heart of a public domestic crisis. Breaking a string of unwanted records this season and parting ways with Thomas Frank last month, Spurs are at the heart of […]
Barcelona have confirmed that both Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde suffered thigh injuries during their Copa del Rey clash with Atletico Madrid. Hansi Flick’s side looked to overturn a 4-0 deficit in the second leg of the tie, but fell just short as they won 3-0 at Camp Nou on Tuesday. Kounde was forced off […]
Brighton face Arsenal in a Matchday 29 game during the 2025/2026 Premier League campaign. Below is all the essential information, including kickoff times and details on how to watch the action on TV or through streaming platforms.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Brighton vs Arsenal on US television and via legal streaming:
With the Premier League title race heating up, Arsenalstep into this matchup knowing the stakes couldn’t be higher. Sitting five points clear of Manchester City but with an extra game already in the books, the North London side can’t afford any slip-ups as the calendar winds down.
Standing in their way is a tricky Brightonsquad hovering between a late European push and looking over its shoulder in the standings — a team talented enough to rattle the leaders on any given day. With the pressure mounting and the margin for error razor-thin, this showdown could have major implications at the top — don’t miss it.
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Inter Miami will debut its new stadium this year, and it will do so with a name resulting from a commercial agreement.
This year, Inter Miami face the challenge of building on their 2025 performance, a season in which they were crowned Major League Soccer champions for the first time. To that end, they aim to repeat their domestic success while adding a similar run on the continental stage. But beyond the sporting challenges, the club also has its sights set on the inauguration of its new home.
Miami Freedom Park is in the final stages of construction, and the team is expected to begin playing its matches there by early April. In fact, the 2026 MLS schedule was specifically designed so that the Herons play their first five matches of the season on the road, providing enough time to finalize the project.
In this context, Inter Miami announced Wednesday that their new stadium will feature a name born from a commercial partnership. In a video posted on social media, Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, Luis Suarez, and Noah Allen are seen walking through the tunnels leading to the pitch, accompanied by the message: “The Nu era starts now.”
Nu is a Brazilian company that offers digital financial services platforms. “As a cornerstone of the agreement, Inter Miami CF’s new state-of-the-art home stadium at Miami Freedom Park will officially be named Nu Stadium,” explains the statement published on the company’s official website.
This is our commitment to build a new standard. For the club, our fans and the future of the game. Vamos 💗 pic.twitter.com/eKF8IUkFih
“Designed for year-round enjoyment, the 26,700-seat stadium will serve as the home of Inter Miami CF while also hosting concerts of various sizes, corporate and private events, and a wide range of additional sporting events including friendly and competitive matches,” the message adds.
David Beckham and Jorge Mas speak on the new stadium
In the same statement announcing the commercial deal, reflections from two of Inter Miami’s owners were also shared. “Miami has always been a place where people come with big dreams and from the very beginning, we wanted this Club to reflect that spirit,” said David Beckham. “Opening our new stadium is a really special moment on our journey – a place for fans across South Florida and for people from around the world who feel connected to our Club to watch us play.”
Jorge Mas also expressed excitement about what the opening of the new stadium will mean for the Herons. “Inter Miami was built to set new standards and redefine what’s possible in football. That’s why we pursue greatness on the pitch by signing the best players in the world, and just as importantly, we hold ourselves to that same standard when choosing the partners who help bring our vision to life,” said the club’s co-owner.
“Together, we are proud to welcome our fans to Nu Stadium at Miami Freedom Park very soon, a special place they can call home where they can feel connected, inspired, and part of something truly extraordinary,” Mas added.
How many matches will Inter Miami play before moving to the new stadium?
The estimated date for the official inauguration of Nu Stadium is Saturday, April 4, when Inter Miami face Austin FC in MLS action. However, before then, they must play several more matches across two different competitions.
In league play, they will face DC United, Charlotte FC, and New York City FC; all of those matchups will be on the road. Additionally, in the Concacaf Champions Cup, they must navigate the Round of 16 series against Nashville SC. They will play the first leg at Geodis Park before the decisive return leg in Miami. That match, scheduled for Wednesday, March 18, will be the last one the Herons play at Chase Stadium.
Newcastle clash with Manchester United in a Matchday 29 battle during the 2025/2026 Premier League campaign. Below is all the essential information, including kickoff times and details on how to watch the action on TV or through streaming platforms.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Newcastle vs Manchester United on US television and via legal streaming:
Fresh off a statement comeback, Manchester Unitedstrengthened their push for a coveted UEFA Champions League berth with a gritty 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace. After conceding first, the Red Devils responded with urgency and resilience, flipping the script to secure three massive points that keep them firmly in the qualification race.
Sitting third in their group, United understand there’s little margin for error down the stretch. Their next test comes against Newcastle, who are aiming to rebound after a 3-2 setback against Everton, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown with major implications at both ends of the table.
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If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full Peacock soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
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If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.
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Although Barcelona displayed their scoring power against Atlético Madrid, they were eliminated from the Copa del Rey after losing on aggregate. Additionally, Lamine Yamal received terrible news, as the Blaugrana announced the extent of the injuries to Alejandro Balde and Jules Koundé.
Barcelona imposed their high offensive tempo against Atlético Madrid, securing a 3-0 victory thanks to an outstanding performance by Marc Bernal. Despite this, they failed to level the aggregate score and were eliminated from the Copa del Rey. In addition, Lamine Yamal faced disappointing news as he lost two key teammates. The Blaugrana announced that Alejandro Balde and Jules Koundé sustained injuries, ruling them out for several weeks.
After the match against Atletico Madrid, Barcelona announced that Alejandro Balde suffered an injury to the distal biceps femoris of his left thigh. Because of this, he will have to be out for about four weeks. Moreover, Jules Koundéwas also diagnosed with an injury to the mid-third of the biceps femoris of his left thigh. While they did not provide an estimated recovery time for the Frenchman, Diario Sport states that he will be out for around four weeks.
With this absences, coach Hansi Flick now has five players sidelined for an extended period, as Gavi, Andreas Christensen and Frenkie de Jong are also set to remain out until early April. In light of this, the Blaugrana will be forced to rely on youngsters such as Jofre Torrents, Marc Bernal and Marc Casadó. Moreover, João Cancelo may hold a key role as he stood out against Los Colchoneros.
Even though these absences are certainly significant, Barcelona may not have too many problems staying competitive. Throughout the season, Flick has managed to show that his deep roster can help them at any moment, which is why they remain favorites to win La Liga and to advance to the Champions League quarterfinals. In addition, the level shown by Marc Bernal and João Cancelo could prove decisive in the upcoming matches.
Koke, Johnny Cardoso and Antoine Griezmann of Atletico de Madrid celebrate victory.
Robert Lewandowski could soon return to Barcelona’s roster
Throughout the 2025-26 season, Barcelona have managed to establish as one of the best offensive teams, maintaining a wide variety of scorers. Ferran Torres may have emerged as a major contributor, but his lack of effectiveness at key moments weighed heavily against Atlético Madrid. However, coach Hansi Flick could soon receive some good news amid injuries to Kounde and Balde, as Robert Lewandowski is reportedly set to return earlier than expected.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Lewandowski will be available for the match against Athletic Bilbao, as he will wear a mask following his fracture to his left eye socket. With this, the Polish striker would have one game to adapt, arriving in full shape to face Newcastle United, where he could be decisive either as a starter or coming off the bench. His early return is a definitive boost for Lamine Yamal, who regains an experienced presence in the goal-scoring side.
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
Ronaldo’s recent hamstring injury has forced the club into a reshuffle at a crucial stage of the season, placing immediate pressure on Al-Hamdan to step into the spotlight.
Abdullah Al-Hamdan will carry the heavy burden of replacing the injured Cristiano Ronaldo when Al-Nassr faces NEOM SC in the Saudi Pro League. Ronaldo’s recent hamstring injury has forced the club into a reshuffle at a crucial stage of the season, placing immediate pressure on Al-Hamdan to step into the spotlight.
With the Portuguese superstar sidelined and undergoing rehabilitation, Al-Nassr must once again adapt without its talisman. However, how the club has actually fared in his absence during the 2025-26 campaign adds an intriguing layer to the story. The setback occurred during a 3-1 league victory over Al-Fayha last Saturday, February 28. Ronaldo endured an uncharacteristically difficult night, missing a 12th-minute penalty before signaling discomfort late in the match.
He was substituted in the 81st minute, and days later, the diagnosis was confirmed. “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 club announced on Tuesday.
Reports suggest the 41-year-old could be sidelined for two to four weeks, depending on the severity of the hamstring strain. While his participation in the 2026 World Cup is not believed to be under threat, his short-term absence creates immediate tactical challenges for Al-Nassr.
Head coach Jorge Jesus has reportedly decided that Abdullah Al-Hamdan will start against NEOM, as noted by Arriyadiyah newspaper journalist Khaled Al-Rashid. The Saudi forward now shoulders the responsibility of filling Ronaldo’s role at the spearhead of the attack.
Team tested without its captain
Whenever Ronaldo has been unavailable this season, either due to rotation or injury, attention has shifted to how Al-Nassr responds. The numbers from both domestic and continental competition reveal a compelling pattern.
Saudi Pro League record without Ronaldo
In league fixtures where Ronaldo was not in the squad, Al-Nassr has delivered emphatically:
Al-Nassr 2-0 Al Ahli – Win
Al-Nassr 2-0 Al Riyadh – Win
Al-Nassr 4-1 Al Ittihad – Win
Al-Nassr 4-0 Al Khaleej – Win
League record without Ronaldo:
Played: 4
Wins: 4
Draws: 0
Losses: 0
Win percentage: 100%
Interestingly, when Ronaldo has featured in league matches this season, Al-Nassr’s win rate stands at 66.7% (10 wins from 15 games). While the sample size without him is smaller, the club has not dropped a single point during those absences.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr
AFC Champions League Two record without Ronaldo
The same trend appears in the AFC Champions League Two. In matches where Ronaldo did not feature, Al-Nassr maintained dominance:
Al-Nassr 4-0 FC Goa – Win
Al-Nassr 2-1 FC Goa – Win
Al-Nassr 4-0 Istiklol – Win
Al-Nassr 2-0 Al Ahli – Win
ACL Two record without Ronaldo:
Played: 4
Wins: 4
Draws: 0
Losses: 0
Win percentage: 100%
Even when he has played in Asia, the club has remained flawless, winning all three of his appearances in the competition.
Jorge Jesus team Manager of Al-Nassr FC and Al-Nassr FC Players celebrate the win against Al Ittihad with the fans.
Overall combined record in 2025-26 season so far
Without Ronaldo (All competitions):
Played: 8
Wins: 8
Draws: 0
Losses: 0
Win rate: 100%
With Ronaldo (All competitions):
Played: 18
Wins: 13
Draws: 2
Losses: 3
Win rate: 72.2%
Cristiano Ronaldo in action for Al Nassr
What the numbers really mean
Statistically, Al-Nassr has shown it can win without its captain. The squad has demonstrated improved depth, tactical flexibility, and shared scoring responsibility. Defensive solidity and collective attacking output have allowed the club to collect maximum points even in Ronaldo’s absence.
However, context matters. Many of the matches without Ronaldo came against beatable opposition. In high-pressure fixtures or tightly contested encounters, his presence often alters defensive structures, boosts confidence, and influences momentum.
The broader takeaway from the 2025-26 campaign is clear: Al-Nassr is no longer structurally dependent on Ronaldo to win matches. The team’s system functions efficiently without him. Yet his aura, leadership, and goal-scoring instinct elevate the ceiling of what the club can achieve.
Cristiano Ronaldo (left) and Abdullah Al-Hamdan (right)
After dealing with knee problems for several months, Kylian Mbappé has been diagnosed with a sprained left knee. However, Real Madrid star’s injury is reportedly more serious than initially expected, meaning he could face a longer recovery timeline.
Kylian Mbappé has managed to establish himself as one of Real Madrid’s best players, currently standing as the team’s top scorer. However, he was diagnosed with a sprained left knee, ruling him out for several matches. After deciding to undergo treatment in France, he was reportedly diagnosed with a more severe injury. As a result, Mbappe could now face a longer recovery timeline than initially expected.
According to Antón Meana on El Larguero, Kylian Mbappé’s injury is more complex than initially expected, as his left posterior cruciate ligament is reportedly at its limit. With this in mind, the French forward would need to use the remaining 100 days before the 2026 World Cup to recover fully, which would rule him out for the rest of the season. Despite this, Real Madrid do not share the same view being reported from the player’s inner circle.
While Mbappé’s close camp is allegedly emphasizing the seriousness of the injury, Los Blancos are said to be far more optimistic. In fact, they reportedly believe the player could return in time for the second leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 against Manchester City. However, the Frenchman’s entourage denies this information, making it clear that he would not take any risk of suffering a relapse.
In case Kylian’s absence for the rest of the season is confirmed, Real Madrid would suffer a real blow to their season’s objectives. To face the Citizens, coach Álvaro Arbeloa will be without Eder Militao, Rodrygo Goes, following his season-ending ACL injury, Dani Ceballos, Jude Bellingham, and possibly the Frenchman. On top of this, Los Blancos are not at their best, having been defeated by Getafe and raising doubts about their competitiveness.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid during the Spanish Super Cup Final against FC Barcelona.
Mbappe reported injury extent explained by sports therapist
Kylian Mbappé has been suffering from knee problems since mid-December 2025, causing him to miss two games. Although he managed to maintain his scoring pace, the Frenchman had to stop playing after being diagnosed with a sprained left knee by Real Madrid. However, he is reportedly suffering from a partial tear of the posterior cruciate ligament. In light of this, a physiotherapist specializing in sports injuries explains the extent of this supposed injury.
As explained by expert Ángel Villanueva via X (formerly Twitter), the posterior cruciate ligament is the main restraint that prevents the tibia from moving backward in relation to the femur. If it is partially torn, it loses its ability to stabilize the joint. As a result, the knee may feel unstable when braking or turning, fail during explosive actions, and lose efficiency in accelerations. He also outlined a recovery timeline of between 16 and 24 weeks.
Despite this, Real Madrid have not issued a new medical report on Kylian Mbappé’s injury status. As it stands, the Frenchman has only been diagnosed by the club with a sprained left knee, leaving reports of a more serious injury to information published by journalists. With that in mind, the 27-year-old striker’s recovery timeline remains within the parameters initially set by the club, pending any new medical update should it become necessary.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid CF reacts during the UEFA Champions League.
As Cristinao Ronaldo's likely return timeline emerges as Al-Nassr captain’s World Cup hopes remain intact, the early signs point toward caution rather than catastrophe.
Cristiano Ronaldo had just helped Al-Nassr secure a 3-1 league victory, yet the image of him with ice strapped to his right leg quickly overshadowed the result. Now, as his likely return timeline emerges as Al-Nassr captain’s World Cup hopes remain intact, the early signs point toward caution rather than catastrophe.
For a 41-year-old icon preparing for what could be a historic sixth World Cup appearance, every muscle strain is magnified. But inside the club, the message is calm: manage the recovery, avoid risks, and keep one eye firmly on June.
The injury occurred during Al-Nassr’s demanding Saudi Pro League clash with Al-Fayha. Ronaldo was substituted in the 81st minute after visibly struggling. Television footage showed him on the bench with an ice pack on his hamstring, an ominous sight for supporters.
Medical examinations conducted on Tuesday, March 3 confirmed the issue. In an official statement, the club clarified the situation. “Cristiano Ronaldo has started a rehabilitation programme and his condition will be assessed day by day,” the statement read.
Further clarification described the problem as a hamstring tendon injury, a setback that typically requires careful management, particularly for an athlete in his forties. While muscle injuries can vary in severity, the early communication from the club emphasized structured rehabilitation rather than alarm.
No crisis for the World Cup
The central concern was always the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which begins on June 11 across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Ronaldo is in line to become the first male player to feature in six World Cups, a milestone that would further cement his legacy. Crucially, current projections indicate that his participation in the tournament is not under serious threat.
Medical experts cited in regional reports suggest that even in the event of a moderate-grade strain, the recovery window would allow ample time for full fitness before Portugal’s World Cup opener. The Portuguese coaching staff is reportedly in constant contact with the medical team in Riyadh to monitor progress. At this stage, the focus remains simple: full recovery before competitive intensity resumes.
Cristiano Ronaldo playing for Portugal.
The timeline emerges
While the initial club statement avoided specifics, further details have gradually come into view. According to medical assessments relayed by Saudi physical therapist Thamer Al-Shahrani and widely reported by transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Ronaldo is expected to be sidelined for a short spell.
The likely scenario is that he will miss the upcoming league fixtures against NEOM SC and Al-Khaleej, with rehabilitation projected to last between two and four weeks maximum. If recovery proceeds smoothly, he could return toward the end of March, potentially rejoining Portugal for international duty. This timeline places his World Cup ambitions firmly on track.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr celebrates after scoring a goal.
It is worth noting that hamstring injuries, particularly tendon-related ones, require disciplined management. Rushing back too soon increases the risk of recurrence, and it’s something neither club nor country can afford at this stage of the season.
Steven Gerrard believes it is time for Arne Slot to deploy Rio Ngumoha from the off after the Liverpool youngster impressed once again from the bench against Wolves. Ngumoha was brought on in the 65th minute for Cody Gakpo at Molineux as the Reds slipped to a shock 2-1 defeat against Rob Edwards’ side on […]
Diego Simeone conceded Barcelona were “a step ahead” of Atletico Madrid as they almost pulled off a stunning Copa del Rey semi-final comeback. Atletico are through to the final of the competition, where they will face either Real Sociedad or Athletic Club in April, but they had to hold on at the end of Tuesday’s […]
Carlo Ancelotti and Kylian Mbappe both added their sympathetic words to the flood of messages to Rodrygo after a devastating twist altered both club and country ambitions in one cruel moment.
Carlo Ancelotti andKylian Mbappeboth added their sympathetic words to the flood of messages to Rodrygo after a devastating twist altered both club and country ambitions in one cruel moment. What was initially feared has now been confirmed, and while the full emotional weight of those messages will emerge later, the reality is already painfully clear: Rodrygo’s season is over, and his 2026 World Cup dream with Brazil has been shattered.
The club confirmed the worst in an official medical update that sent shockwaves through Madrid and beyond. In a formal announcement, Real Madrid detailed the severity of the injury suffered by the Brazilian forward. “Following tests carried out today on our player Rodrygo by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament and a rupture of the lateral meniscus of his right leg,” the club statement read.
The diagnosis leaves little room for optimism. A full ACL rupture combined with meniscus damage is among the most serious knee injuries in soccer, typically requiring extensive surgery and a long rehabilitation period.
Rodrygo had appeared as a substitute during the club’s 1-0 La Liga defeat to Getafe, entering the match in the 55th minute as the side chased an equalizer. According to multiple reports, the injury occurred roughly ten minutes later when he attempted to accelerate down the flank. Though he briefly went down in visible discomfort, he astonishingly continued playing until the final whistle. Medical examinations the following day revealed the full extent of the damage.
This is the exact moment Rodrygo tore his ACL last night right on the touchline in a duel with Getafe’s Adrián Liso.
Look at how his knee was left hanging helplessly in the air before Liso pushed him away, forcing him to roll on the ground in agony… 🥺
Initial projections suggested six to seven months on the sidelines, but subsequent assessments paint a far grimmer picture. El Mundo indicates that the recovery timeline could stretch closer to nine to 12 months, potentially ruling the Brazilian winger out until early or even mid-2027. That timeline carries enormous consequences.
Rodrygo will miss the remainder of the 2025-26 season, and more heartbreakingly, he will not be available for Brazil’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in the United States. For a player entering his prime at 25, it is a crushing personal and professional setback.
The comparison within the club is sobering. Club captain Dani Carvajal endured a similar ACL and meniscus injury in October 2024 and required nine months to return. Rodrygo now faces a similarly long and arduous path. Compounding the difficulty is the context. The forward had only just returned from a month-long absence due to tendonitis. His comeback lasted barely half an hour before fate intervened again.
Rodrygo of Real Madrid
What did Mbappe and Ancelotti say about Rodrygo?
Amid the devastation, messages of solidarity poured in from teammates, compatriots, and former colleagues. Among them were Neymar and Vinicius, but two more tributes in particular carried profound emotional weight.
Kylian Mbappe shared his own heartfelt message: “All the strength of the world, cousin. Take time for yourself and your family, and come back stronger.” The affectionate “cousin” remark reflects the close bond between the two forwards; not a familial tie, but a symbol of their on-field chemistry and locker-room connection.
Shortly after, Brazil’s national team coach, Carlo Ancelotti, publicly expressed his support for the forward he once coached in Madrid. On social media, he wrote: “We will be by your side every step of the way until you’re back. Stay strong, Rodrygo.”
For Ancelotti, the blow is twofold. As Brazil’s manager since mid-2025, he had counted on Los Blancos’ star as a key figure in the Selecao’s bid for a record-extending sixth World Cup. Now, those plans must be redrawn without one of the nation’s most dynamic attacking threats.
Lionel Messi could end up suffering a major setback for the 2026 World Cup, in this case due to the lack of preparation of the Argentina national team.
Lionel Messi will enter the 2026 World Cup carrying the weight of defending champion for the first time in his career, tasked with leading Argentina in pursuit of back-to-back titles following the triumph in Qatar. But the legendary forward could be heading into the tournament facing a significant handicap, with the Albiceleste’s preparation schedule increasingly at risk of falling apart.
Under normal circumstances, national teams not involved in playoff fixtures would have up to four friendly matches across the March and May/June international windows before the competition kicks off. While several federations have already confirmed their schedules and venues, Argentina find themselves in a far more precarious position.
For the upcoming March window, the centerpiece was set to be the Finalissima against Lamine Yamal’s Spain, scheduled for March 27 at Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar. However, the escalating tensions in the country have thrown those plans into disarray, with the venue now very much up in the air, even as both the Argentine and Spanish federations push to preserve the original date.
Further complicating matters, Argentina had also been slated to take part in the Qatar Football Festival alongside Spain, Serbia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the host nation, with a friendly against Qatar penciled in for Tuesday, March 31. But the Qatar Football Association has since announced the postponement of all tournaments, competitions and matches “effective from today and until further notice,” effectively wiping the event off the calendar.
Draw assistant Tom Brady draws out the card of Argentina during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Draw.
What about the next international window?
With the Qatar friendly all but off the table, Argentina are racing against the clock to find both a replacement opponent and a venue for an additional match. As things stand, the Finalissima against Spain, itself still subject to logistical uncertainty, could end up being the only game on Argentina’s March schedule.
Looking further ahead, the plan had been to arrange friendly matches between June 1 and 10 against Mexico and Honduras, in Las Vegas and Miami respectively, as final tune-ups before the World Cup. However, as reported by TyC Sports, both of those fixtures have also fallen through, meaning that, at this point, the Finalissima could be the only preparation game before Argentina’s World Cup group stage opener against Algeria on June 16.
Argentina already struggled to organize friendlies
Given their status as one of the world’s elite national teams and the pulling power of Lionel Messi, one might assume arranging friendlies would be a straightforward task for Argentina. In practice, the AFA has repeatedly struggled to put games together, and the most recent example is not far back.
During the November international window, Argentina were set to travel to Angola for a friendly tied to the celebration of the African nation’s 50th anniversary of independence. Reports from Sport News Africa later revealed that the Angolan Football Federation paid approximately €12 million (around $12.7 million USD) to host the match, with Messi’s participation listed as one of the conditions of the deal.
Lionel Messi and Giovani Lo Celso of Argentina during the game against Puerto Rico.
That ultimately proved to be the only friendly of that window, after L’Équipe reported that Morocco, a late candidate to host Argentina, turned down the possibility after the AFA reportedly requested around €10 million to make the trip. With Venezuela, Puerto Rico and Angola representing Argentina’s most recent friendly opposition, the concern is no longer just about the quality of preparation, it is about whether there will be enough games at all.
Arne Slot said Liverpool’s dismal defeat to Wolves “sums up their season”, hitting out at their profligacy in attack and their tendency to concede late goals. Liverpool arrived at Molineux chasing a fourth straight Premier League win, which would have taken them level with Manchester United and Aston Villa in the race for a top-four […]
Rob Edwards feels Wolves’ wins over Aston Villa and Liverpool can help to create some positive momentum at Molineux, even if their likely relegation from the Premier League is confirmed. Wolves may appear destined to suffer the drop this season, but they are not going down without a fight, stunning Villa and Liverpool at Molineux […]
Antoine Griezmann's move to the MLS with Orlando City has been put into question as head coach Diego Simeone is reportedly pushing him to stay at Atletico Madrid.
Antoine Griezmann has been one of the hottest topics in soccer over the past few weeks, with Orlando City making a strong push to bring the French star to Major League Soccer. However, his move to the Lions may be in jeopardy, with head coach Diego Simeone reportedly working to convince Griezmann to remain at Atlético Madrid.
Adding to the intrigue, Simeone raised eyebrows last week when he appeared noncommittal about Griezmann’s future, saying he “doesn’t know” what will happen and suggesting the veteran forward is “in a position where he deserves to be able to choose” given everything he has contributed to the club. But Atlético‘s Copa del Rey run may have changed the calculus entirely.
Griezmann himself has shown no shortage of commitment to the Atlético cause. Following the elimination of Barcelona, the Frenchman posted an Instagram photo of himself celebrating alongside fallen Barça players with the caption “Does this photo go hard?,” a pointed callback to a similar post from last year when the Blaugrana knocked out the Colchoneros.
Now with a Copa del Rey final on the horizon, Simeone was asked whether Griezmann would be part of it: “I certainly hope so. He deserves it more than anyone. What he gave on the pitch today, the way he ran, was incredible. The quality and talent he possesses is something he will carry with him for the rest of his life.
“What more can I add to what you already know I feel for him? I love him dearly, I always want the best for him, and I truly hope he gets to play in that final,” Simeone added in his post-match press conference, sounding notably more optimistic about keeping Griezmann away from Orlando than he had in recent days.
The 2025-26 Copa del Rey final is scheduled for April 18 in Seville, with Atlético set to face either Real Sociedad or Athletic Club, presenting Griezmann with the opportunity to cap his time at the club with a trophy. The only catch is that the final falls well after the MLS transfer window closes. To complicate matters further, SER reports that Orlando have warned the offer will not be renewed in the summer window, forcing Griezmann into a difficult choice: stay and play in the final, or make the move to North America now.
Andre’s deflected strike in the 94th minute clinched another shock result for the Premier League’s bottom club Wolves, as they stunned Liverpool 2-1 at Molineux. Wolves boss Rob Edwards wheeled away down the touchline in celebration after Friday’s derby win over Aston Villa, and there were similar scenes when Andre’s audacious effort took a massive […]
Due to Lionel Messi's absence in a game back in May 2024, the Vancouver Whitecaps and the MLS will have to pay a $347K settlement.
Lionel Messi has proven time and again to be a box office draw across Major League Soccer, breaking attendance records at stadiums throughout the continent whenever Inter Miami come to town. However, one of his absences, back in May 2024, has now led to the Vancouver Whitecaps and MLS agreeing to pay $347,000 in settlements following a class-action lawsuit.
The episode dates back nearly two years, when Inter Miami were set to travel to Vancouver to face the Whitecaps at BC Place for Matchday 15 of the 2024 MLS season. It would have been Messi’s second appearance at the venue, coming just one month after the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinal first leg, in which the home side claimed a 2-0 victory.
It was also set to be Messi’s first appearance against the Whitecaps in regular-season MLS play since his arrival in mid-2023. But the anticipation quickly deflated when then-head coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino decided to rest the Argentine for the match.
Why did the Whitecaps, MLS had to pay settlements?
In the buildup to the Vancouver visit, both the Whitecaps and MLS heavily promoted the May 25 fixture against Inter Miami, using Messi, Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets as the faces of the marketing campaign. On the strength of that billing, fans paid significantly inflated ticket prices, some reportedly as high as $335 per ticket, according to The Athletic.
Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets of Inter Miami warming up.
With not only Messi but also Suárez and Busquets left behind and not even making the trip, the Whitecaps found themselves in an uncomfortable position. In an attempt to appease frustrated supporters, the club offered all in-stadium food and beverages at 50 percent off, along with a free kids’ meal combo for anyone 18 and under.
The club also addressed the situation publicly. “While we haven’t received an official update on the availability of Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Sergio Busquets for this weekend, we understand they will not make this trip. Unfortunately, we have no control over who plays for our opponent, and it was important for us to communicate to our fans as soon as possible,“ said Whitecaps FC CEO Axel Schuster on the club’s official website.
Fans who made the trip to BC Place left disappointed, and a class-action lawsuit was subsequently filed against the Vancouver Whitecaps and MLS. The complaint sought partial reimbursement of ticket prices, but both the club and the league denied any liability or wrongdoing, arguing that the promotion of the game did not constitute a guarantee of any player’s participation.
After a lengthy legal dispute, the British Columbia Supreme Court has approved a CAN$475,000 (approximately $347,000 USD) settlement to be paid by the Vancouver Whitecaps and Major League Soccer, though the funds will not go directly to the fans who attended the game. Instead, the settlement will be donated to three charitable sports organizations: KidSport BC, Canada SCORES and BGC South Coast BC.
When Cristiano Ronaldo and head coach Jorge Jesus look around the stands during a Saudi Pro League night, there is one issue that continues to surface behind the scenes at Al-Nassr.
When Cristiano Ronaldo and head coach Jorge Jesus look around the stands during a Saudi Pro League night, there is one issue that continues to surface behind the scenes at Al-Nassr. The club has enjoyed global attention, record-breaking goals, and sustained competitiveness since Ronaldo’s arrival in January 2023, yet a key Al-Nassr worry in the Saudi Pro League has now been revealed. While the team continues to chase silverware and maintain high standards under Jesus, questions have quietly emerged about one aspect of the club’s domestic presence.
When Ronaldo signed for Al-Nassr in early 2023, it was one of the most seismic transfers in modern soccer history. His move instantly reshaped perceptions of the Saudi Pro League, drawing unprecedented international attention to Saudi soccer.
The Portuguese forward’s arrival transformed the club into a global commercial force. Social media followings surged, international broadcast deals expanded, and sponsors began paying closer attention to the league. The Knight of Najd evolved from a strong regional side into a worldwide brand almost overnight.
On the pitch, the Portuguese superstar delivered emphatically. Despite entering the latter years of his career, he became one of the most prolific scorers in the club’s history. He surpassed 100 goals in all competitions and broke the Saudi Pro League single-season scoring record with 35 goals in 2023-24, securing the Golden Boot.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr FC.
He followed that with another Golden Boot campaign the next season, underlining his consistency and longevity as he edged closer to the historic 1,000-career-goal milestone. Moreover, beyond goals, his professionalism raised internal standards. Teammates frequently pointed to his work ethic and leadership as a benchmark. But amid tactical tweaks and transfer discussions, another concern has quietly grown.
The key worry revealed
Despite Ronaldo being arguably the most famous athlete on the planet alongside Lionel Messi, recurring images of half-filled stands during Al-Nassr matches have sparked internal concern. It is believed that Jorge Jesus and Ronaldo are reportedly troubled by the optics of empty seats during home fixtures.
Jesus has not hidden his frustration. According to the club’s former legal department manager, Saad Al-Subaie, the Portuguese manager emphasized that stronger backing from the stands is vital to sustaining momentum, especially during crucial league matches. The issue is not necessarily a lack of support in absolute numbers, but rather how it appears visually and atmospherically.
Al-Nassr FC Players group photo during the Saudi Pro League
Attendance data provides context. During the 2024-25 season, Al-Nassr averaged approximately 16,292 spectators per home match, among the strongest figures in the league. League-wide averages in 2025-26 hover around 8,113 spectators per match, suggesting Al-Nassr still performs comparatively well. Estimates place the club’s current average between 15,000 and 18,000 fans per home game.
General view of the Al Awwal Park stadium
Why are Saudi Pro League stadiums often empty?
Several structural factors contribute to stadiums appearing underfilled:
Large stadium capacities (25,000-60,000 seats) make 15,000 attendees look sparse on television.
Empty away sections are often visibly unoccupied.
Midweek 10:00 PM local time kick-offs deter working supporters.
Hot weather and traffic congestion, particularly in Riyadh, reduce matchday convenience.
Cultural habits favor watching games at home with family and friends.
Some stadium facilities and transportation access remain less than ideal.
Head coach Jorge Jesus (L) and Cristiano Ronaldo (R) of Al Nassr.
Cristiano Ronaldo is set to learn the fate of one of his most important teammates as Al-Nassr moves closer to a major decision regarding Spanish defender Inigo Martinez.
Cristiano Ronaldo is set to learn the fate of one of his most important teammates as Al-Nassr moves closer to a major decision regarding Spanish defender Inigo Martinez. The centre-back, who remarkably has the same goal tally this season as Karim Benzema at Al-Hilal, has become a pivotal figure in Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr project. While Ronaldo remains the face of the club’s revolution, Martinez has quietly matched headlines with substance, contributing at both ends of the pitch in ways few defenders can.
At first glance, comparisons with Karim Benzema, now leading the line for Al-Hilal, might seem unusual. After all, the Frenchman is a striker, tasked with scoring goals. Martinez is a central defender, entrusted with preventing them. Yet both players have three league goals for their respective clubs in recent action, underlining how impactful the Spaniard has been during the ongoing campaign.
Since Ronaldo arrived in 2023, Al-Nassr’s identity has revolved around attacking firepower. Goals have rarely been an issue. Converting performances into trophies, however, has required greater balance, and Martinez has emerged as the solution to that long-standing concern.
When he joined from Barcelona, the move was not simply about adding experience. It was about installing a defensive backbone capable of withstanding high-pressure moments. The Spanish defender brought tactical discipline, positional intelligence, and aerial authority to a team that often commits numbers forward in support of Ronaldo.
Inigo Martinez of Al Nassr celebrates after scoring
His presence has allowed full-backs to push higher and midfielders to press aggressively, safe in the knowledge that there is composure anchoring the back line. In 23 league starts this season, Martinez has helped the club secure 11 clean sheets, an impressive return that highlights his structural importance.
Leadership without the spotlight
While Ronaldo drives standards vocally and emotionally, Martinez offers quieter authority. He organizes defensive lines, communicates constantly during transitions, and ensures set-piece discipline. This complementary dynamic has been crucial. Ronaldo demands excellence; Martinez enforces stability behind him. For a team chasing domestic and continental ambitions, that balance is essential.
His offensive contribution has added another layer. Scoring three league goals as a centre-back is no small feat. These goals, often from set pieces, have delivered vital points in tight matches. For a defender, such output represents a significant bonus, and it becomes even more striking when compared to a forward’s tally.
Al-Nassr’s reported decision on Martinez revealed
According to 365Scores Arabic, Al-Nassr is working to trigger a clause that would allow Martinez’s contract to be extended until 2027. The development comes after head coach Jorge Jesus was reportedly impressed by the defender’s consistent performances throughout the campaign.
“Al Nassr’s management are moving to activate the clause to extend the contract of Spanish defender Inigo Martinez until 2027,” the source reported, signaling that the club views him as a long-term pillar rather than a short-term fix.
Inigo Martinez and Cristiano Ronaldo in training
The potential extension would reinforce the idea that the Riyadh-based project is evolving beyond star dependency. While Ronaldo remains the marquee name, sustained success requires continuity in less glamorous positions. The Spaniard’s likely extension signals that Al-Nassr values balance as much as brilliance. If Ronaldo is the symbol of ambition, Martinez represents the infrastructure needed to convert that ambition into silverware.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Inigo Martinez (left) and Karim Benzema (right)
Paul Scholes picked Carlo Ancelotti as the perfect manager for Manchester United even if he's currently with Brazil.
Manchester United has been a different team this year with Michael Carrick on the bench. The firing of Rubén Amorim placed the former club player in the manager role with strong results. However, Paul Scholes believes Carlo Ancelotti would be perfect for the team.
On “The Good, The Bad & The Football” podcast, the club legend named his preferred candidate for the job. The Italian’s experience and the number of trophies he has won make him ideal for the position Carrick currently holds.
Scholes said: “The perfect one out there, I say perfect, Ancelotti is still out there. I know he is the coach of Brazil. He is the perfect one for Manchester United, you think he will make players feel a million dollars. And he has the experience of winning trophies.”
Scholes’ main doubt
The former midfielder was clear in his view, but Ancelotti is not currently available. He has committed to leading Brazil in their attempt to win another World Cup, and the project could continue beyond the tournament.
Scholes played his entire career for Manchester United (Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
For Scholes, the main question is not Ancelotti’s contract but his age, which raises debate about whether he would be the right long term fit for such a demanding club.
Scholes said about Ancelotti joining Manchester United: “But the question is, is he too old now? That’s the only thing. Is there anyone else of that ilk, with more experience? They need presence as a leader.”
Scholes questions Carrick’s experience
Ancelotti’s résumé is what makes him attractive to top clubs, particularly his track record in major competitions. In that sense, Scholes compared him with current manager Carrick.
Scholes said about his former teammate, even with the club in a Champions League spot: “The question is, has Michael got the experience? Can we see Michael winning the Premier League? I don’t know yet.”
Artificial Intelligence has made its prediction regarding the top favorites to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In exactly 100 days, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will officially begin in North America. On June 11 at the Azteca Stadium, Mexico will face South Africa to kick off Group A, setting in motion the most important sporting event on the planet. With that milestone in mind, World Soccer Talk consulted an Artificial Intelligence to get a prediction on the matter.
For this analysis, Gemini took various factors into account when determining a probability ranking. Each team’s style of play, as well as their ability to handle the extreme temperatures of the North American summer, were key elements considered. At the same time, squad depth, logistical fatigue, and the knockout win percentage of the managers were significant factors in the study.
Based on all of this, the AI determined that the five national teams with the best chances to compete for the World Cup title this year are Spain, England, France, Argentina, and Brazil, in that specific order. Below is the detailed explanation of this ranking.
Why is Spain the top candidate to win the World Cup according to AI?
Gemini considers Spain the primary favorite to claim the title this summer, with an 18% chance. “Currently ranked #1 in the FIFA World Ranking, La Roja is the metric-driven favorite. Under Luis de la Fuente, they’ve perfected a ‘Vertical Tiki-Taka’ that pairs control with a lethal wing presence in Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams,” the study says.
Spain coach Luis De La Fuente.
Additionally, it includes an analysis regarding the opponents the reigning European champions will initially face on their path to the knockout stages. “Their path through Group H (with Uruguay and Saudi Arabia) looks manageable, allowing them to rotate early,” the AI predicts.
England and France also have chances to compete for the title
The second and third places in the probability ranking for winning the World Cup also belong to European teams. According to Gemini, Englandhas a 15% probability: “The ‘Tuchel Effect’ is real. Thomas Tuchel brings a pragmatic, tournament-winning DNA that England lacked in previous years. With Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden in their absolute primes, the Three Lions have the highest ‘Squad Market Value’ in North America.”
Just behind them is France, with a 12% probability. “You can never count out Kylian Mbappe. While their defense has seen some rotation, the sheer depth of talent in the French pipeline—Camavinga, Tchouameni, and Saliba—ensures they can handle the physical toll of an eight-game tournament,” Gemini asserts.
The South American giants follow further back
Despite being the reigning continental, intercontinental, and world champions, Argentina only has an 11% chance of repeating as champions this summer, according to the AI. However, they are still in a position to put up a fight.
“The defending champions are no longer just ‘Messi plus ten.’ They boast an elite defensive spine with Emi Martinez and Cuti Romero. Even at 39, Lionel Messi’s ability to manage games remains a statistical anomaly, and their Group J draw (Algeria, Austria, Jordan) is arguably the kindest of the top seeds,” Gemini notes.
Finally, Brazil appears as the fifth-highest favorite, also with an 11% chance: “Despite the tragic injury to Rodrygo, Brazil remains a statistical juggernaut. With Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical flexibility and the rise of Vinicius Junior as a global talisman, the Selecao are primed for a deep run if they can navigate a tricky Group C featuring a high-flying Morocco.”
The final will be Spain vs. France according to the AI
After navigating a long road, Spain and France will be the protagonists of the World Cup final, according to Gemini. “The bracket dynamics suggest a collision course between the two most balanced European powers. While England and Argentina have the star power, Spain and France have the highest ‘Efficiency Rating’ when it comes to controlling the transition phases—crucial in the summer heat of North American stadiums,” the AI claims.
“Spain’s ability to ‘rest with the ball’ will be the deciding factor,” the prediction adds regarding who will take the title. “With Rodri directing traffic and Lamine Yamal providing the creative spark, Spain has the highest probability of maintaining consistency over the grueling eight-match stretch required to lift the trophy.”
FIFA World Cup Trophy is displayed during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Draw.
Pep Guardiola complained about the schedule before Manchester City's Champions League match against Real Madrid.
A heated Champions League rivalry should have another chapter soon when Manchester City meet Real Madrid in the round of 16. However, there is already controversy over what Pep Guardiola considers unfair treatment of his team.
Manchester City suffered the worst outcome in the draw by being paired with Real Madrid while Bodo/Glimt was the other option. The schedule will be tight for both clubs, but the Football Association was not kind with the FA Cup programming, which the Spanish manager loudly complained about.
Guardiola said without prompting: “We have Nottingham Forest. After that, three days for the FA Cup in Newcastle at 8 PM. Thanks so much for that time to go battle Real Madrid with less recovery. It’s different if you return to Manchester at 7 or 8 PM than at 1 or 2 AM. Also for Newcastle. It’s not the same one time than the other.”
Manchester City’s calendar
The calendar gets tight for every top club at this time of year. In this case Guardiola appears to have a point, because most other teams play their FA Cup matches at 3 PM local time while City must travel to play at a much later hour.
Manchester City are chasing Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal in the Premier League (Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Manchester City’s next challenge is a Premier League match with Nottingham Forest this Wednesday, followed by a trip to Newcastle for the FA Cup on Saturday, and then the Champions League first leg against Real Madrid in Spain the following Wednesday.
Guardiola added: “I know every team plays at 3 PM, but we play at 8 PM. Those details make the difference. Just like a corner kick, a free kick or a throw-in. We are going to have less recovery and then go to Madrid.”
The fixture before the rematch
Manchester City’s attempt to overtake Arsenal in the Premier League continues with a favorable home match against West Ham after the first leg of the round of 16. That match was moved back a few hours to give them extra rest, which means the second leg will arrive sooner. The club will try to secure a place in the quarterfinals on the following Tuesday.
Guardiola complained about Manchester City's schedule
Regardless of Arsenal's impressive surge, Manchester City remain quite competitive, chasing the Premier League lead and remaining active in the Champions League. However, Pep Guardiola may face a major setback, as Rodri Hernandez reportedly attracts the attention of a LaLiga side.
Manchester City have managed to remain in top form as one of the best teams in England. While Arsenal currently hold the Premier League lead, the Citizens are closely chasing them and remain active in the Champions League. Nonetheless, Pep Guardiola could face a significant setback as Rodri Hernández is reportedly attracting the attention of a LaLiga side ahead of the 2026–27 season.
Despite Rodri Hernández’s recent physical problems, Manchester City are looking to extend his contract, as his current deal runs until 2027 and he remains a priority for Guardiola, beIN Sports reports. However, Real Madrid are moving closer to the Spaniard, seeking to make him their marquee signing for the 2026–27 season, reports Fabrizio Romano. In light of this, he would take his family environment into account when making a decision.
After being crowned the winner of the 2024 Ballon d’Or, he has accumulated five serious injuries that have prevented him from reaching his best physical condition. Coach Guardiola even acknowledged that the Citizens made mistakes in the Spaniard’s recovery process, which ended up worsening his condition. Far from being a season of consolidation, Rodri has already missed 17 matches with the team, but he has been regaining consistency in the latest games.
Unlike in previous seasons, the Citizens have secured a replacement, signing Nico González for €60 million from FC Porto. With this acquisition, they may not oppose his departure if Rodri requests to leave the team. However, Real Madrid might need to pay a transfer fee, which is uncommon for the club when dealing with a player nearing 30 years old, making his potential arrival quite complex.
Rodri of Manchester City applauds the fans after a Premier League match.
Real Madrid reportedly seek a specific profile for the midfield
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have faced serious problems finding solidity in the midfield. Although they have players with differential talent, such as Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, and Aurélien Tchouaméni, none of them has managed to balance the team, creating the need to seek new reinforcement. Rodri may represent a great market opportunity, but Los Blancos could be prioritizing a different profile.
With Toni Kroos and Luka Modric gone, Los Blancos are now without a player capable of organizing the midfield. Although expectations were high that Bellingham would take on this role, he has failed to shine. For that reason, they are reportedly looking to exercise the buy-back clause for Nico Paz for €9 million, while there is also talk of a possible arrival of Kees Smith, who is shining at AZ Alkmaar. Having these priorities, Rodri’s potential arrival takes a back seat.
Pep Guardiola, Head Coach of Manchester City, gives Rodri #16 instructions.
Concern is beginning to ripple through the American soccer community as Christian Pulisic navigates one of the most delicate stretches of his recent career.
Concern is beginning to ripple through the American soccer community as Christian Pulisic navigates one of the most delicate stretches of his recent career. With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching on home soil, the form of the talisman representing Milan has sparked debate. For both club and country, expectations around the winger remain enormous, yet recent weeks have introduced uncertainty at precisely the wrong time.
Pulisic’s numbers tell the story. He has not scored in three months and has gone 11 Serie A matches without a goal or assist. For a player once described as the face of his nation’s “golden generation,” such a drought inevitably raises questions.
Against Cremonese, head coach Massimiliano Allegri once again placed his trust in the American. Once again, the breakthrough did not arrive. Pulisic was substituted in the 78th minute, visibly frustrated after missing a one-on-one opportunity with the goalkeeper. Milan eventually secured a 2-0 victory, but its prolific winger left the pitch without altering his barren streak.
The contrast within the squad has been stark. Rafael Leao has flourished, registering four goals and one assist in the opening months of the year while building chemistry with Christopher Nkunku in attack. In Allegri’s original vision, Leao and Pulisic were meant to form the decisive offensive duo. Injuries and inconsistency have prevented that partnership from fully igniting.
Rafael Leao of AC Milan (L) celebrates after scoring his goal with Christian Pulisic of AC Milan (R)
Still, Allegri has refused to waver publicly in his support. “He played well. He’s getting back into form,” the coach insisted when asked about Pulisic’s struggles. On another occasion, he added confidently, “He’s grown physically and mentally. I’m sure he will score again.”
Injury setbacks and silent sacrifice
The drought has not unfolded in isolation. Pulisic has battled fever and an ongoing iliopsoas bursitis issue, which limited his rhythm during key stretches of the campaign. Yet the American captain has avoided excuses.
Across the Atlantic, concern has not escalated into panic. Former U.S. internationals Tim Howard and Landon Donovan have offered perspective. Howard provided a balanced assessment: “He’s an elite player, but he’s not Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. They’re the only ones who score 50 goals every year for a decade and a half. Everyone else, even the best, goes through slumps.”
Donovan echoed that view, stating, “That tells you how good Pulisic is. You’re so used to seeing him on the scoresheet that when he stops, it becomes noticeable.” He reinforced the belief that Pulisic remains the standout figure within the U.S. squad.
Christian Pulisic of the USMNT
Pulisic’s main focus revealed
Amid swirling discussion about World Cup readiness, a revealing detail has emerged from La Gazzetta dello Sport. According to the Italian outlet, Pulisic is not thinking about the World Cup at all right now, as he is fully focused on Milan.
Despite captaining the United States ahead of a tournament set to captivate North America, his priority remains immediate: restoring form in red and black. Reports further indicate that contract rumors have no bearing on his dip. His current deal runs until 2027 with an option for extension, and dialogue between player and club remains positive. Qualification for the Champions League is seen internally as the next milestone, with confidence that long-term
For now, the 27-year-old is battling through a rare slump, supported by his coach and respected by his locker room. The World Cup spotlight may loom in the distance, but his eyes are fixed firmly on the Rossoneri’s immediate objectives.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913
The fixture, which was set to take place at Zabeel Stadium, had drawn major attention not only because of the stakes involved but also due to Ronaldo’s recent fitness concerns. However, the game will not go ahead as scheduled.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr has seen its highly anticipated AFC Champions League Two quarter-final clash in Dubai against Al-Wasl suddenly postponed. The fixture, which was set to take place at Zabeel Stadium, had drawn major attention not only because of the stakes involved but also due to Ronaldo’s recent fitness concerns. However, the game will not go ahead as scheduled.
The match was originally slated for Wednesday, March 4, as part of the AFC Champions League Two 2025-26 quarter-finals, with the Saudi club traveling to face the UAE side in the first leg of what promised to be a fiercely contested tie. Yet in a surprising development, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) confirmed that the game had been called off, leaving fans and both clubs awaiting further clarification.
The underlying reason revealed
The postponement stems from escalating tensions and ongoing military conflict in the Middle East, which have significantly affected regional security. Recent military developments involving the United States and Iran, along with retaliatory strikes in the region, have created uncertainty surrounding travel, safety, and logistics for international sporting events. As a result, the AFC opted to prioritize safety by suspending fixtures involving West Region clubs until further notice. No new date has yet been confirmed for the Al-Nassr versus Al-Wasl encounter.
The governing body, the Asian Football Confederation, issued an official statement addressing the situation. The postponement affects not only this quarter-final but also other key fixtures across the West Region of its competitions. “In light of the developing situation in the Middle East, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has confirmed that the AFC Champions League Elite 2025/26 Round of 16 first-leg matches in the West Region, originally scheduled for March 2–3, 2026, will now be rescheduled,” it said in a statement.
🚨 It’s official: The Asian Football Confederation has postponed the second-leg matches of AFC Champions League until further notice pic.twitter.com/Ui8nQadcd5
The statement continued: “Additionally, the AFC Champions League Two and AFC Challenge League quarter-final first-leg matches involving teams in the West Region, originally scheduled to be played between March 3 and 4, 2026, are also postponed until further notice.”
What it means for Al-Nassr and Ronaldo’s fitness
The postponement may inadvertently benefit Al-Nassr, particularly concerning Ronaldo’s physical condition. The Portuguese forward recently featured in the club’s 3-1 Saudi Pro League victory over Al-Fayha, though the performance was not without concern. Ronaldo missed a penalty during the match and was later substituted in the 81st minute after signaling discomfort to the bench. He was subsequently seen with an ice pack on the back of his knee, raising fears about his fitness.
On Tuesday, Al-Nassr issued a formal statement confirming the diagnosis. “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.” With the quarter-final now postponed, the 41-year-old superstar may gain valuable additional recovery time, easing pressure on both club and country ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures.
The first leg had been scheduled for March 4 in Dubai, with the return fixture planned for March 11 at Al Awal Park in Saudi Arabia. However, the revised dates will be determined in coordination with relevant authorities once the security situation stabilizes. Additionally, Al-Wasl has announced that ticket holders will receive full refunds until a new date is confirmed, ensuring supporters are not financially disadvantaged by the late change.
Rodrygo will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Brazil, and his teammates Neymar and Vinicius sent messages of encouragement to him.
This Tuesday, Real Madrid confirmed that Rodrygo Goes suffered a serious knee injury that will sideline him for the remainder of the season. This also means the Brazilian forward will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup, prompting his teammates Neymar and Vinicius Junior to send messages of support.
“Today is one of the saddest days for me. When I heard about the injury, a movie played in my head. All the suffering, all the anguish, and the fear of living through this injury again,”Neymar began writing in a post on his official Instagram account.
“My number 10, my boy, my heir (as I call you), I only ask you one thing… ‘take care of your head.’ Now is the time to gather everyone you love around you,” the Santos star’s message continues. “And like you said, you didn’t deserve to go through this right now… but who are we to doubt God’s plans?”
“Little brother… STAY STRONG. I’m sure you’ll come back flying. I love you. Just as you supported me, I will be here for you!!” were Neymar’s final words. The bond between the two players stems from their time together on the Brazil national team: they played 9 matches together between 2020 and 2023, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup. It also comes from a shared origin, as both began their careers at Santos before making the jump to Europe.
Furthermore, Neymar’s empathy regarding this unfortunate situation is undoubtedly motivated by his own personal experience. Throughout much of his career, and especially in recent years, he has endured several serious injuries and knows well what it means to deal with problems of this type. In fact, the injury that marked a turning point in his career—and from which he is still trying to recover—was the same one Rodrygo suffered now: a torn knee ligament in October 2023.
Vinicius’s message to Rodrygo
In the same way as Neymar, Vinicius Junior took to social media to send a message of support to Rodrygo. Via a story on his official Instagram account, the winger shared a photo of himself alongside Rodrygo, both playing for Real Madrid.
“My brother. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Stay strong and close to those you love. God bless you. We’re waiting for you,” were the words Vini chose for his teammate on the Spanish side and the Brazil national team.
What did Rodrygo say after his injury was confirmed?
Amidst the shock and pain that news of this nature brings, Rodrygo Goes took to social media to reflect on the impact of this injury and the grueling recovery period that lies ahead for him.
“One of the worst days of my life. How I have always feared this injury… perhaps life has been a little cruel to me lately,” the Real Madrid player wrote on Instagram. “I don’t know if I deserve this, but what do I have to complain about? So many wonderful things have already happened to me, things I didn’t even deserve.”
“I’m out for the rest of the season with my club and will miss the World Cup with my country — a dream everyone knows means so much to me,” Rodrygo lamented. “All I can do now is be strong, as always; this is nothing new… Thank you to everyone for the prayers, messages, and support! You mean so much to me.”
Following the announced departure of Carlos Casemiro, Manchester United are aiming to find a world-class replacement. Looking to help the team in their search, the Brazilian has reportedly recommended a Premier League star as his successor.
After several seasons of heavily criticized performances, Carlos Casemiro has managed to establish himself as one of Manchester United’s best players. Despite this, the Brazilian surprised many by announcing that he will not renew his contract with the team. In light of this, the English side remain attentive to his replacement in midfield. Although the veteran will leave the club, he has reportedly recommended a Premier League star as his successor.
According to Diario AS, Casemiro has strongly recommended Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimarães as his replacement following his departure at the end of the season. In response, the Red Devils have him among their priorities, as they believe he would adapt perfectly to the team’s ideology. Despite his departure being quite difficult, the Brazilian has paused his renewal, leaving his future open.
Far from being a simple negotiation, Manchester United might have to pay a record-breaking fee to Newcastle United. With being recently Alexander Isak sold to Liverpool for €150 million, Bruno Guimarães’ price could potentially be even higher. Nonetheless, the Brazilian has already proven himself as one of the Premier League’s best players, making his immediate impact on the team as the ideal choice.
Not only the Red Devils target Bruno Guimarães, but they also chase Sandro Tonali and Elliot Anderson as prime alternatives to bolster their midfield. However, acquiring any of these talents could easily surpass the €100 million mark, making their arrival a complex undertaking. As Manchester United closely monitors these three midfielders, they remain hopeful of securing their star acquisition soon, chasing consistency for the next season.
Bruno Guimaraes of Newcastle United runs with the ball during the Premier League match.
Manchester United reportedly push to offload two midfielders
With the impact of Michael Carrick, Manchester United have established themselves among the most consistent teams in England. Aiming to improve the team’s performance, they are looking to make clear departures within the squad. Not only will Casemiro leave, but they also plan for two midfielders who failed to stand out significantly to depart. With this, the Red Devils open the door to the arrival of a world-class talent.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the Red Devils are seeking a departure for Manuel Ugarte. Despite having arrived for €50 million in 2024, the Uruguayan has not managed to break into the rotation, and he is attracting interest from Serie A clubs. Alongside him, Mason Mount could also leave the team, as they are open to listening to offers, with Aston Villa reportedly quite interested, Ekrem Konur reports.
In case Manchester United manage to sell Ugarte and Mount, they could free up roster space for at least two midfielders. With this, they could pursue Elliot Anderson and Bruno Guimarães or Sandro Tonali, looking for depth in the team as they would remain with just Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo. Rather than a problem, the Red Devils hold a great chance to rebuild their midfield.
Casemiro of Manchester United during the Premier League match.
A French World Cup winner backed Real Madrid's Vinicius after his Champions League controversy.
The move to the Champions League quarterfinals wasn’t easy for Real Madrid. Benfica was an important rival in a match that became more dramatic because of Vinicius’ controversy, in which he claimed he was discriminated against by Gianluca Prestianni. Marcel Desailly, a World Cup winner with France, backed the winger.
In the context of the Laureus Awards nominations, which honor individuals and teams in sport, Desailly described what makes Vinicius a victim and called for change.
Desailly said: “I’m happy to see Vinicius play. He can celebrate, he did it the last time he scored. There’s no problem with that part. The problem is the perception of him, we must end this and accept things must change. It’s unacceptable when this happens inside stadiums.”
Desailly on Real Madrid’s problems
It’s not been a normal season for Real Madrid since the start. The hiring of Xabi Alonso raised expectations in the capital that the team has not met. A brief surge under Álvaro Arbeloa has turned into another crisis.
Desailly backed the Brazilian player in the controversy (Angel Martinez/Getty Images for Laureus)
The loss at the Santiago Bernabéu to a modest Getafe angered the fans amid a run of disappointing performances, which the former French international described as more about mentality.
Desailly said: “They are not calm, but they have individuals who can raise the level to help the team collectively reach what is expected of the famous Real Madrid. Meanwhile, they need calm.”
Desailly on the level of the World Cup
Desailly was a key part of the France team that won the World Cup in 1998. Although he saw red in the final against Brazil, he was an indispensable player in defense. His experience provided useful context to assess the tournament’s level.
The Frenchman said: “As to the matches, we’ll see how much the players give of themselves. But generally, the World Cup delivers great games. In Qatar the level was exceptional. This summer there could be even better matches than then.”
An award that Lionel Messi won — but Cristiano Ronaldo never did — could go to Ousmane Dembele this year.
Ousmane Dembele has claimed the two biggest individual prizes in soccer over the past year: the Ballon d’Or and The Best FIFA Men’s Player award. Now, the French winger could add another prestigious trophy that Lionel Messi has lifted in the past — and that eluded Cristiano Ronaldo throughout his career.
The nominees for the 2026 Laureus Awards were announced on Tuesday, with the ceremony set to take place April 20 in Madrid. The awards, created in 2000 by the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, recognize the world’s top athletes across all sports.
Dembeleis the only soccer player nominated for the main Sportsman of the Year award. Joining him on the shortlist are Spanish tennis star Carlos Alcaraz, Swedish pole vaulter Mondo Duplantis, Spanish MotoGP rider Marc Marquez, Slovenian cyclist Tadej Pogacar, and Italian tennis player Jannik Sinner.
It marks the first nomination for the French winger, who built a strong case during the 2024-25 season to be considered among the very best athletes in the world. He led Paris Saint-Germain on a historic run that included the UEFA Champions League title — the first in club history and only the second ever won by a French club.
🗞️ Here are the Nominees for the Laureus World Sports Awards 2026.
🏆 Who do you think the Laureus World Sports Academy should select as the Winners?
In addition to Ousmane Dembele’s nomination in the main category, soccer is represented in several other categories at the 2026 Laureus Awards. Aitana Bonmati, star of Spain and Barcelona, is a finalist for Sportswoman of the Year.
PSG standout Desire Doue is nominated for Breakthrough of the Year. Leah Williamson of Arsenal is a finalist for Comeback of the Year, while Paris Saint-Germain and the England women’s national team are both nominated for Team of the Year.
Messi won twice, Ronaldo never did
To understand the significance of the Laureus Award, consider this revealing statistic: since its creation in 2000, the main Sportsman of the Year honor has been awarded to a soccer player only twice. On both occasions, the recipient was Lionel Messi.
The Argentine forward shared the award with Lewis Hamilton in 2020 while playing for Barcelona, and won it again in 2023 following his triumph with Argentina at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He had also been a finalist six other times.
Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile, has never won a Laureus Award. He was nominated five times — first in 2009 after winning his first Ballon d’Or the previous year, and most recently in 2018 after capturing his final UEFA Champions League title with Real Madrid.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Ousmane Dembele and Lionel Messi.
The week before last, Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior complained about receiving racial abuse from Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni during their Champions League clash. Getting to the bottom of things when this particular incident is concerned will be difficult, due to Prestianni covering his mouth while speaking to Vinicius. However, according to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, […]
Ruben Dias does not believe Manchester City can draw inspiration from previous instances where they pipped Arsenal to the title, saying each Premier League season is different. City trail the Gunners by five points at the top of the table ahead of Wednesday’s meeting with Nottingham Forest, while holding a game in hand on the […]
With the Premier League action rolling onto Wednesday night, we have a stacked midweek schedule from across England’s elite. As both Arsenal and Manchester City look to extend on their respective title charges, Manchester United will also travel to St. James’ Park for a heavyweight battle. For those of you looking to put on a […]
Mikel Arteta has called for calm among both Arsenal players and fans during the Premier League run-in. The Gunners face Brighton at the Amex Stadium on Wednesday, the first of nine remaining league games in 2025-26 as they battle Manchester City for the title. Arsenal maintained their five-point lead over City, who have a game […]
Having extended his contract with Brighton for another year, veteran striker Danny Welbeck is set to face his former club when Arsenal visit the Amex Stadium on Wednesday. Seagulls boss Fabian Hurzeler is obviously happy that the 35-year-old chose to continue at the club beyond this season. “Every coach would be happy to have a […]
Verdict: Away win Best odds: 13/20 Bookmaker: BetUS Brighton and Hove Albion and title‑chasing Arsenal both look to extend their winning streaks to three matches when they face off at the Amex Stadium on Wednesday evening. The Seagulls edged Nottingham Forest 2–1 on Sunday, while the Gunners matched that scoreline against Chelsea to keep their […]
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler believes rule changes are required to stop Arsenal’s time-wasting tactics from set-pieces. Arsenal’s reliance on set-pieces has become a hot topic again in recent days, after they ground out a 2-1 victory over Chelsea in which all three goals came from corners. The Gunners’ 16 goals from corners this season are […]
Harry Kane has recently been linked with Barcelona, as the Catalans seek to identify a long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski. Having already succeeded the Polish veteran at Bayern Munich, Kane recently played such notions down, saying he was very happy at the Allianz Arena. Nonetheless, Bayern are very keen to end all speculation on that […]
Despite Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Marc Bernal shining in the 3-0 win, Barcelona fall short to complete the comeback in the Copa del Rey semifinals against Atletico Madrid.
Barcelona hosted Atlético Madrid in the second leg of the 2025-26 Copa del Rey semifinals on Tuesday at the Camp Nou. Despite starring performances from Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and Marc Bernal, the Blaugrana fell agonizingly short of completing the comeback, winning 3-0 on the night but bowing out of the competition.
Atlético arrived as clear favorites to advance after their emphatic 4-0 victory in the first leg. Still, Barcelona took the game to them from the opening whistle, with an electric Lamine Yamal causing havoc on both flanks and the home side pressing relentlessly in search of an early goal.
The breakthrough came in the 29th minute, when Yamal burst past Ademola Lookman on the right and delivered a pinpoint cross to the six-yard box for Marc Bernal to finish. Then, deep into first-half stoppage time, Pedri was brought down inside the area by Marc Pubill, and Raphinha stepped up to convert the resulting penalty and give Barcelona renewed hope at the break.
Atlético offered little going forward, and a composed Joan García ensured his goal remained intact whenever the visitors did threaten. Bernal then reignited the Camp Nou in the 72nd minute, converting from a João Cancelo cross to make it 3-0 on the night and bring the Remontada within touching distance.
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona is shown a yellow card by referee Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea.
Despite every effort, including coach Hansi Flick’s bold decision to deploy defender Ronald Araújo as an emergency striker, Barcelona could not find the fourth goal they needed, running into an Atlético side that defended resolutely and with numbers. With a 4-3 aggregate scoreline, the Colchoneros march on to the Copa del Rey final, where they will face either Real Sociedad or Athletic Club.
Following Liverpool's poor performance, they are aiming to rebuild their roster, raising doubts about the continuity of several players. In that sense, Virgil van Dijk could lose a key teammate, as Alisson Becker is reportedly attracting the attention of two Serie A sides.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Liverpool have been surrounded by rumors that cast doubt on the continuity of key players such as Andrew Robertson, Mohamed Salah, Joe Gomez, among others. Alongside this, Virgil van Dijk could lose another key teammate, as Alisson Becker could leave the team. Amid his unstable contractual situation, the Brazilian is reportedly attracting the attention of two major Serie A clubs.
Despite being a Liverpool legend, Alisson Becker’s contract runs until 2027 and he has not yet been offered a renewal. In this context, the Brazilian is receiving strong interest from Inter Milan and Juventus FC, who are willing to pursue his signing despite him being 34 years old, La Repubblica reports. While he remains the starter for the Reds, they could be open to his departure if a strong offer arrives.
Since joining in 2018 from AS Roma, Alisson established himself as one of the most transformative players in Liverpool’s history. Winning a UEFA Champions League, two Premier League titles, a UEFA Super Cup, a FIFA Club World Cup, among others, he defined an era at the club. However, the Reds are reportedly aiming for a roster rebuild, casting doubt not only on the Brazilian’s future but also on that of other veterans.
Although the Brazilian reportedly attracts interest from Inter Milan and Juventus, they would have a big problem to complete his signing: his high salary. According to La Repubblica, the Brazilian goalkeeper has a salary of around €5 million, which would place him among the best paid at both teams. In view of this, both Italian teams are keeping other alternatives: Atalanta’s Marco Carnesecchi and Tottenham Hotspurs’ Guglielmo Vicario, who are also younger.
Alisson Becker of Liverpool celebrates a goal.
Alisson’s departure may ease reported Liverpool star’s anger
Although Liverpool are rebuilding their roster, Alisson Becker has remained one of Arne Slot’s most regular players, maintaining his key position in the team. At 34 years old, the Brazilian may not have much time left on the team, so the Reds signed Giorgi Mamardashvili as a bet for the future. However, the 25-year-old star is reportedly not entirely happy with his lack of playing time, something that the Brazilian’s possible departure could alleviate.
While having paid €30 million to Valencia, Mamardashvili has accumulated only 934 minutes with the Reds, so he would be considering asking for a departure on loan, Graeme Bailey reports. However, the interest from Inter Milan and Juventus in Alisson could change this situation, as his departure would give him the starting role under Arne Slot. For this reason, the Georgian’s continuity could depend on whether the Brazilian leaves or stays at the club.
Alisson Becker of Liverpool during the Premier League match.
Jorge Jesus has reportedly made a crucial decision amid the growing worries over Cristiano Ronaldo's fitness at a crucial point in the season, adding to the air of uncertainty around the striker.
Concern spread quickly across Riyadh as Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Al-Nassr, walked off late in the victory over Al-Fayha, clutching his leg. With the title race tightening and a high-stakes meeting against NEOM looming, the question dominating discussion was simple yet loaded: How long is he expected to be out for? The club now sits at the summit of the Saudi Pro League, but uncertainty over its talisman has added fresh tension to an already delicate moment in the season.
The drama began during the 3-1 win against Al Fayha. Ronaldo, visibly uncomfortable, signaled toward the bench before being substituted in the 81st minute. Cameras captured him afterward with ice strapped to his leg; a sight that immediately alarmed supporters.
Earlier in the match, the Portuguese forward had endured frustration from the penalty spot, registering the 35th missed penalty of his career, despite a remarkable record of 181 goals from 216 attempts. Yet statistics quickly became secondary. The greater concern was physical.
After the final whistle, head coach Jorge Jesus addressed the situation directly. “Ronaldo suffered muscle fatigue, and the medical staff will urgently perform the necessary tests to determine his condition,” he explained. He emphasized that he preferred not to take risks once the match was under control. Initial examinations suggested a hamstring issue. Further radiological testing, including an MRI scan, was scheduled to clarify the severity.
Official confirmation arrives
Al-Nassr soon issued a formal statement confirming the diagnosis. “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.”
Timing could not be more sensitive. Al-Nassr leads the Saudi Pro League with 61 points from 24 matches, holding a narrow advantage over rivals such as Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli. Every fixture now carries decisive weight.
The upcoming clash against NEOM is viewed internally as pivotal; not merely three points, but a statement of authority. The Portuguese’s influence extends beyond his 21 league goals this season. His leadership, experience, and pursuit of the historic 1,000-goal milestone amplify his importance.
How long could he be out?
While the club has not disclosed an official timeline, medical understanding of hamstring injuries provides context. Doctors generally classify hamstring injuries into three grades:
Grade 1 (mild strain): Recovery typically takes 1-3 weeks, with players returning after rest, stretching, and gradual strengthening.
Grade 2 (moderate tear): Recovery ranges between 3-8 weeks, requiring structured physiotherapy and progressive sprint reintroduction.
Grade 3 (severe rupture): Absence can extend from 3-6 months, sometimes requiring surgery.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr looks on during the Saudi Pro League match between Al Najmah
Studies referenced by medical institutions such as the National Institutes of Health suggest the average absence for structural hamstring injuries in professional soccer is approximately 17-18 days, though this varies depending on severity, location, and prior injury history.
Rehabilitation follows a progressive model: acute rest and inflammation control, light isometric exercises, eccentric strengthening, and finally a phased return to sprinting and match intensity. Crucially, physicians warn against rushing back, as hamstring injuries carry a high re-injury rate, particularly within two weeks of return.
Cristiano Ronaldo refused to play for Al Nassr vs. Al Riyadh on Monday.
Following the solid start of Alvaro Arbeloa’s tenure at Real Madrid, he seemd on his way to being the solution to the team’s problems. Nevertheless, the coach has strung together a series of setbacks that have supposedly changed his continuity at the club.
Álvaro Arbeloa’s arrival seemed to solve the problems of Real Madrid after the disappointing spell of Xabi Alonso. While the coach supposedly managed to improve the atmosphere in the dressing room and put together a good run, the problems did not take long to arise. He has not only failed to consolidate dominance in midfield but also has reportedly seen his future at Real Madrid change radically, sowing great uncertainty.
According to Guillermo Rai and Mario Cortegana in The Athletic, Alvaro Arbeloa has lost considerable support from the roster of Real Madrid, who see that he has not managed to reverse his situation, being defeated even by Getafe CF. Some players even have significant tensions in the dressing room, bringing back the situation that Xabi Alonso was living. With this, the Spaniard does not have his continuity at the Blancos secure at all.
Throughout the season, Arbeloa has had to battle constant physical problems of his players, having up to eight injured currently: Éder Militão, Dani Ceballos, Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe, Raul Asencio, Eduardo Camavinga, David Alaba and Rodrygo, who suffered a season-ending ACL injury. With these constant absences, the coach has not managed to find the team’s balance, which once again looks quite uncreative in midfield, being its biggest problem.
With Mbappe and Bellingham suffering serious injuries, Arbeloa could make a radical lineup change, moving Vinicius Jr. and Gonzalo Garcia to the front, with Arda Guler as an attacking midfielder. Behind them, Aurelien Tchouameni, Camavinga, and Federico Valverde could dominate the midfield. Despite this, the coach’s future seems far from Real Madrid, as the team has not progressed, bringing his departure or return to Real Madrid Castilla closer.
Alvaro Arbeloa, Head Coach of Real Madrid, looks on prior to the LaLiga EA Sports match.
Alvaro Arbeloa leaves even worse record than Xabi Alonso
After achieving impressive success at Bayer Leverkusen, Xabi Alonso emerged as the ideal candidate to lead Real Madrid’s renewal. However, he encountered problems in the dressing room and struggled to restore dominance in the midfield, which remained one of the team’s weakest areas. Consequently, he was dismissed, paving the way for Álvaro Arbeloa to take over. Unfortunately, he has also faced challenges, delivering even worse results than his predecessor.
Throughout Alonso’s tenure, he managed 20 matches, accumulating 16 victories and four defeats, leaving a percentage of just 20% defeats. While his spell was heavily criticized, Arbeloa has had worse results, managing 12 matches, but accumulating eight victories and four defeats, leaving a percentage of 33% defeats. Despite this, Álvaro does not seem set to be dismissed, but he does have few chances of continuing.
Alvaro Arbeloa, Head Coach of Real Madrid, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League.
Looking to extend on their sensational Premier League flurry, Manchester United will travel to St. James’ Park on Wednesday night when they meet Newcastle. Embarking on what has been an astonishing run of form since Michael Carrick’s return to Old Trafford, Man United are riding a major wave of momentum and should be relishing a […]
After the surprising 4-0 defeat in the first leg, Barcelona face Atlético Madrid, seeking a comeback that secures them a spot in the final of the Copa del Rey. In light of this, fans are attentive to the status of Lamine Yamal and Pedri, as they can be differential.
Even though they started as clear favorites in the first leg, Barcelona suffered a resounding 4–0 defeat to Atlético Madrid. Nevertheless, coach Hansi Flick is optimistic about a comeback in today’s match as they seek a spot in the final of the Copa del Rey. The Colchoneros can complicate their intentions, imposing a solid defense. In that sense, fans are closely monitoring the status of Lamine Yamal and Pedri, as they could make a significant difference.
Lamine Yamal appears to have overcome his pubalgia issues and lack of motivation, returning to top form.With his physical problems behind him, coach Hansi Flick will start him, as Yamal’s goal-scoring ability and dribbling skills can decisively impact the game. At just 18, he has scored 18 goals and provided 14 assists, establishing himself as Barcelona’s most effective player. Consequently, he is poised to be a key figure in the match.
Alongside the recovery of Lamine’s best form, coach Hansi Flick seems to be restoring the best physical condition of Pedri, who is coming off an important thigh injury. Nevertheless, he has already played around 40 minutes in the last two matches. After avoiding a relapse and completing training normally, the 23-year-old midfielder is set to start against Atlético Madrid, chasing to revolutionize the game.
With a four-goal advantage, the Colchoneros can concentrate on maintaining a strong defense by aligning the midfield closely with the defensive line. Despite this, coach Diego Simeone might choose to counterattack, exploiting the spaces behind Jules Koundé and Joao Cancelo and aiming to secure the game early. However, Lamine’s strong form and Raphinha’s exceptional talent could shift the balance in favor of the Blaugranas.
Referee Juan Martinez Munuera gestures for a direct free kick after a handball from Eric Garcia of FC Barcelona.
Barcelona confirmed lineup vs. Atlético Madrid
While Lamine Yamal and Pedri are set to be starters, coach Hansi Flick maintains sensitive absences. Barcelona will not be able to count on Eric Garcia, Robert Lewandowski, Frenkie de Jong, Andreas Christensen and Gavi. Despite this, they point to a clear balance in the midfield, with Fermin Lopez being differential in offense. In addition, Raphinha and Ferran Torres promise to unbalance the rival defense, imposing their scoring power.
Considering this, Barcelona will play as follows: Joan Garcia; Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, Joao Cancelo; Marc Bernal, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Fermin Lopez, Raphinha; Ferran Torres.
Atlético Madrid confirmed lineup vs. Barcelona
The Blaugranas are not only missing key players, but Atlético Madrid will also be without main stars. Ahead of today’s game, coach Diego Simeone will not be able to line up Pablo Barrios, due to a thigh injury. Nonetheless, the Colchoneros may target a defensive strategy as they hold a four-goal advantage. Moreover, they will rely on a counterattack strategy, betting on Ademola Lookman and Giuliano Simeone’s speed.
With this in mind, Atlético Madrid will lineup as follows: Juan Musso; Marcos Llorente, Marc Pubill, David Hancko, Mateo Ruggeri; Koke, Johnny Cardoso; Giuliano Simeone, Antoine Griezmann, Ademola Lookman; Julián Álvarez.
Verdict: Borja Iglesias over 0.5 shots on target Best Odds: 7/10 Bookmaker: Olympusbet Desperately searching for an immediate La Liga response on Friday night, Real Madrid will travel to Galicia when they meet Celta Vigo. Celta Vigo Starting with the hosts, putting in another eye-catching performance over the weekend as they secured a 2-1 victory […]
Diego Simeone believes forcing Lamine Yamal to defend is the best way to make him uncomfortable, ahead of Atletico Madrid’s Copa del Rey showdown with Barcelona. Atleti are defending a 4-0 lead over the Blaugrana as they look to reach their first domestic cup final since 2012-13, with the second leg taking place at Camp […]
Slumping to a stunning 1-0 loss at home against local rivals Getafe on Monday night, Real Madrid watched their La Liga title dreams take another public dent. Missing out on the opportunity to cut the deficit in this season’s La Liga title scrap, Los Blancos now sit four points adrift of arch-rivals Barcelona and Alvaro […]
Real Madrid failed to make up ground on Barcelona in LaLiga as Martin Satriano’s wondergoal condemned them to a 1-0 defeat to Getafe, with both teams finishing with 10 men. Missing several injured players including Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham, Alvaro Arbeloa’s men suffered their second straight league defeat, with Franco Mastantuono sent off for […]
Slumping to a stunning 1-0 loss at home against local rivals Getafe on Monday night, Real Madrid watched their La Liga title dreams take another public dent. Missing out on the opportunity to cut the deficit in this season’s La Liga title scrap, Los Blancos now sit four points adrift of arch-rivals Barcelona and Alvaro […]
Verdict: Both teams to score Best Odds: 17/20 Bookmaker: Luckster Facing what is a must-win showdown on Thursday night, Tottenham will welcome Crystal Palace to north London. Tottenham Starting with the hosts, while Tottenham might have made real history last season as they were crowned Europa League champions, Spurs suddenly find themselves at the heart […]
Arsenal must address the anxiety that has characterised their recent matches if they are to stay the course in the Premier League title race, Jurrien Timber has admitted. Mikel Arteta’s Gunners are five points clear of second-placed Manchester City, having played an additional game, ahead of visiting Brighton on Wednesday. At the same time as […]
Hansi Flick is adamant that Barcelona need more than just Lamine Yamal to overturn a hefty first-leg deficit in their Copa del Rey tie with Atletico Madrid. Barca crashed to a 4-0 defeat to Atletico in the first leg of the semi-final. They host Diego Simeone’s team in the return leg on Tuesday. Barca come […]
Newcastle and Tottenham Hotspur have both been heavily linked with former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez, but according to Newcastle-based Chronicle Live, Chelsea are set to enter the race for his signature as well. Nunez, currently plying his trade at Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, has nine goals and five assists in 24 matches across all […]
Verdict: Both teams to score Best odds: 8/11 Bookmaker: Olympusbet Liverpool continue their push for Champions League qualification on Tuesday when they head to Molineux to face bottom‑placed Wolverhampton Wanderers. The Reds’ 5–2 victory over West Ham on Saturday moved them up to 48 points, and they will be expected to dispatch a Wolves side […]
Liam Rosenior has been far from impressed with the level of discipline in his Chelsea squad. Chelsea lost 2-1 to Arsenal on Sunday, with Pedro Neto picking up two bookings in the space of three second-half minutes. Neto was booked for dissent before he then lunged in on Gabriel Martinelli. Chelsea have now received nine […]
Newcastle and Tottenham Hotspur have both been heavily linked with former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez, but according to Newcastle-based Chronicle Live, Chelsea are set to enter the race for his signature as well. Nunez, currently plying his trade at Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, has nine goals and five assists in 24 matches across all […]
Gary Neville thinks Arsenal will win the Premier League title, although he predicted “10 weeks of pain”. Arsenal are five points clear of seond-place Manchester City, having played a game more than Pep Guardiola’s team. The Gunners edged out Chelsea 2-1 on Sunday, and take on Brighton on Wednesday, while Man City host struggling Nottingham […]
Prediction: Match to end in 1-1 draw Best Odds: 11/2 Bookmaker: Zetbet Leeds United and Sunderland will lock horns with each other in the Premier League this week. The match between Daniel Farke’s side and Regis Le Bris’s team will be held at Elland Road and is scheduled to kick off at 7:30pm UK time […]
Arne Slot does not enjoy the physicality of set-pieces in the Premier League, as he worries there is too much focus on such scenarios. Premier League leaders Arsenal are hugely effective from set-pieces. Indeed, all three of the goals in the Gunners’ 2-1 win over Chelsea on Sunday were scored from corners. Liverpool also had […]
With the Premier League action rolling onto Tuesday night, we have a stacked midweek schedule from across England’s elite. As a resurgent Liverpool look to skyrocket their way into the Champions League spots, bitter local rivals Everton will also look to extend on their remarkable European charge. With four top-flight showdowns pencilled in on Tuesday […]
While Antoine Semenyo might have only arrived at Bournemouth three years ago following a £10million move from Bristol City, the Ghana international has only continued to shine since joining England’s elite. Enjoying a remarkable start to the 2025/26 campaign at the Vitality, the 26-year-old had a string of Premier League heavyweights who were chasing his […]
Verdict: Goal to be scored in both halves Best Odds: 7/10 Bookmaker: Luckster Looking to extend on their sensational Premier League purple patch, Manchester United will travel to St. James’ Park on Wednesday night when they meet Newcastle. Newcastle Starting with the hosts, while Newcastle might have extended on their Champions League adventure last week […]
Verdict: Manchester City win Best Odds: 2/5 Bookmaker: Dachbet Once again looking to close the gap at the top of the Premier League table, Manchester City will welcome Nottingham Forest to the Etihad on Wednesday night. Manchester City Starting with the hosts, while Manchester City might once again watched Arsenal widen their buffer on Sunday […]
Mikel Arteta lauded David Raya as a leader at Arsenal, as he claimed his “heart almost stopped” when the goalkeeper pulled off a save late on against Chelsea. Arsenal saw off Chelsea 2-1 in a cagey contest at Emirates Stadium, where all three goals came from corner kicks. Jurrien Timber grabbed Arsenal’s winner, heading home […]
Verdict: Goal to be scored in both halves Best Odds: 7/10 Bookmaker: Olympusbet Two camps who are seeking their own respective Premier League boosts on Wednesday night, Aston Villa will welcome Chelsea to the Midlands. Aston Villa Starting with the hosts, while Aston Villa might have opened the New Year at the heart of a […]
Liam Rosenior conceded it was the “same story” with Chelsea as their disciplinary issues and set-piece struggles came to the fore in their 2-1 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday. Rosenior watched on as William Saliba headed Arsenal into a 21st-minute lead after Chelsea failed to deal with Bukayo Saka’s inviting corner that was met by […]
Benjamin Sesko was the match-winner again as Manchester United fought back to beat 10-man Crystal Palace 2-1 at Old Trafford, following Maxence Lacroix’s red card. Lacroix put Palace ahead after just four minutes, outmuscling Leny Yoro before superbly planting a header into the far post from Brennan Johnson’s corner. United struggled to get going in […]
Jurrien Timber wants Arsenal to enjoy the Premier League title race after a cagey win over Chelsea saw them move five points clear of Manchester City. Timber headed home in the 66th minute of an attritional contest at Emirates Stadium to seal a 2-1 victory. All three goals came from corners, with Arsenal’s set-piece proficiency […]
Arsenal restored their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League as they ground out a 2-1 win over 10-man Chelsea. Jurrien Timber’s 66th-minute header proved decisive at Emirates Stadium, where all three goals came from corners. Arsenal went ahead in the 21st minute, with Gabriel Magalhaes meeting Bukayo Saka’s corner to set up […]
Verdict: Everton win & Both teams to score Best Odds: 11/4 Bookmaker: Luckster Looking to make it consecutive Premier League victories on Tuesday night, Everton will welcome Burnley to the blue half of Mersyside. Everton As for the visitors, springing a real upset at St. James’ Park over the weekend as they eventually picked up […]
Verdict: Both teams to score Best Odds: 2/3 Bookmaker: Dachbet Two camps who are looking to book their own respective iconic European finishes this season, Bournemouth will welcome Brentford to the Vitality on Tuesday night. Bournemouth Starting with the hosts, while Bournemouth might have continued to impress since opening the New Year, Andoni Iraola’s men […]
Barcelona have long mulled over Marcus Rashford and whether to turn the Manchester United forward’s loan into a permanent transfer for €30million, and according to Sport, they’ve now decided to do so. An agreement over personal terms on a three-year contract is already in place. Rashford had difficulty in getting his quality recognized at United […]
Barcelona have long mulled over Marcus Rashford and whether to turn the Manchester United forward’s loan into a permanent transfer for €30million, and according to Sport, they’ve now decided to do so. An agreement over personal terms on a three-year contract is already in place. Rashford had difficulty in getting his quality recognized at United […]
Barcelona have long mulled over Marcus Rashford and whether to turn the Manchester United forward’s loan into a permanent transfer for €30million, and according to Sport, they’ve now decided to do so. An agreement over personal terms on a three-year contract is already in place. Rashford had difficulty in getting his quality recognized at United […]
A £104million loss, soaring wages, and heavy transfer debts show a club gambling on Premier League survival it can’t guarantee. West Ham United’s newly published accounts make one thing painfully clear: the club is standing far closer to the financial edge than many supporters might like to believe. A £104.2 million loss — their biggest […]
Hugo Ekitike scored and provided two assists as Liverpool bolstered their top-four hopes with an entertaining 5-2 victory over West Ham. A lively away performance from West Ham was not enough to deny Arne Slot’s men at Anfield, as they moved level on points with fourth-placed Manchester United in the Premier League table. Liverpool scored […]
Manchester City cut Arsenal’s lead at the Premier League summit back to two points as Antoine Semenyo’s goal clinched a 1-0 win over Leeds United at Elland Road. Erling Haaland was unable to feature in the city of his birth after suffering a minor injury in training, and Pep Guardiola’s side initially struggled without their […]
Liverpool are leading the race for Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Joao Neves, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Liverpool are planning to make a big offer for Neves, but there is interest in the 21-year-old Portugal international midfielder from Manchester City and Real Madrid, as well. Fichajes has noted: […]
Manchester United are interested in signing Nicolo Barella from Inter Milan in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Inter want €70 million for the Italy international central defender. Fichajes has noted: ‘Manchester United’s intention is to seize any market opportunity to secure the signing […]
Manchester United and Manchester City are competing with each other for Elliot Anderson, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Nottingham Forest, who could get relegated from the Premier League to the Championship at the end of the season, want €91 million for the former Newcastle United star. Fichajes […]
Liverpool and Newcastle United are interested in signing Luis Suarez from Sporting CP in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. Suarez has established himself as one of the best strikers in Europe, and both the Reds and the Magpies are keen on him. Fichajes has noted: ‘In England, two clubs have positioned themselves:: Liverpool […]
Lamine Yamal netted his first-ever career hat-trick in sublime style against Villarreal on Saturday, but the winger admitted after the match that he had endured a challenging period this season. Helped by his brilliant performance and a late goal from Robert Lewandowski, Barcelona cruised to a comfortable 4-1 victory at Camp Nou in Hansi Flick’s […]
Liverpool are leading the race for Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Joao Neves, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Liverpool are planning to make a big offer for Neves, but there is interest in the 21-year-old Portugal international midfielder from Manchester City and Real Madrid, as well. Fichajes has noted: […]
Real Madrid and Barcelona are interested in signing Rodri from Manchester City in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The Spanish news outlet has claimed that Madrid, who have long wanted to sign the Spain international, believe that they could be able to sign Rodri for €50 million, but La Liga rivals Barcelona have […]
Barcelona are interested in signing Gabriel Martinelli from Arsenal in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The Spanish news outlet has claimed that Arsenal want €45 million for the Brazil international winge. Fichajes has noted: ‘Barcelona’s sports management, under the tactical leadership of Hansi Flick, aim to incorporate players who bring freshness and individual […]
Real Madrid and Barcelona are interested in signing Rodri from Manchester City in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The Spanish news outlet has claimed that Madrid, who have long wanted to sign the Spain international, believe that they could be able to sign Rodri for €50 million, but La Liga rivals Barcelona have […]
Barcelona are interested in signing Gabriel Martinelli from Arsenal in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The Spanish news outlet has claimed that Arsenal want €45 million for the Brazil international winge. Fichajes has noted: ‘Barcelona’s sports management, under the tactical leadership of Hansi Flick, aim to incorporate players who bring freshness and individual […]
Atletico Madrid are interested in signing Cody Gakpo from Liverpool in the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes. The report in the Spanish news outlet has claimed that Atletico wanted to sign Victor Osimhen, and having missed out on him, the La Liga club are now keen on the Netherlands international. Fichajes has noted: ‘The […]
Lamine Yamal scored a sensational hat-trick as Hansi Flick marked his 100th game in charge of Barcelona with a 4-1 win over Villarreal at Camp Nou. Yamal’s treble, along with substitute Robert Lewandowski’s late goal, also moved Barcelona four points clear at the top of LaLiga, with Real Madrid facing Getafe on Monday. A quiet […]
Since arriving at Manchester City back in the summer of 2019, Rodri has certainly underlined his status as a modern era icon at the Etihad. Cementing his spot as one of Europe’s ultimate midfield superstars, the 29-year-old has lifted 11 pieces of major silverware during his time in the blue half of Manchester and bagged […]
Liverpool do not plan to sell Alisson in the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider. Juventus want to sign the Brazil international goalkeeper, but the defending Premier League champions want to keep him. Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “Yeah, obviously no surprise that someone like Juventus are looking at Alisson. He had a very good […]
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has plenty of faith in his team when it comes to the knockout stages of the Champions League. The first hurdle will show just how much weight his words carry, as the Magpies face Barcelona in the round of 16. “I believe that we can raise our stakes and compete with […]
The draw for the Champions League round of 16 this season has prepared the stage for some potentially historic clashes. The Champions League draw is stunning 🤩 pic.twitter.com/nsLO1OMOSD — Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 27, 2026 Full draw: Real Madrid vs Manchester City Bodo/Glimt vs Sporting Lisbon PSG vs Chelsea Newcastle vs Barcelona Galatasaray […]
According to Teamtalk, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea haven’t given up on signing Dusan Vlahovic as a free agent at the end of the season. However, the Serbian striker, previously linked with Arsenal, AC Milan and Liverpool too, prefers Barcelona as his potential destination at this point. Juventus have scheduled a fresh round of negotiations with […]
Verdict: Total goals over 3.5 Best odds: 13/20 Bookmaker: ZetBet Barcelona aim to move four points clear at the top of La Liga on Saturday afternoon when they host Villarreal at Camp Nou. Hansi Flick’s side currently hold a one‑point advantage over Real Madrid, who do not play until Monday night, while the Yellow Submarine […]
Manchester City will face Real Madrid in the Champions League last 16 after the two teams were drawn against each other for the fifth consecutive European campaign. Pep Guardiola’s side were knocked out by Los Blancos in the play-off phase in 2024-25, a year after they were eliminated by the same opposition in the quarter-finals. […]
Verdict: Vinicius Junior to score anytime Best Odds: 21/10 Bookmaker: Olympusbet Turning their attention back to La Liga duties on Monday night, Real Madrid will welcome local rivals Getafe to the Bernabeu. Real Madrid Starting with the hosts, suffering spectacular last-gasp heartbreak away at Osasuna last weekend as they eventually slumped to an infamous 2-1 […]
Verdict: Real Betis win Best Odds: 4/5 Bookmaker: Dachbet In what is a fierce derby showdown on Sunday evening, Real Betis will welcome Sevilla to the Estadio de La Cartuja. Real Betis Starting with the hosts, while Real Betis might have watched their Copa del Rey adventure come to a thumping end on February 5th […]
Atletico Madrid are interested in signing Bernardo Silva in the summer transfer window, according to TuttoJuve. The Portuguese star, who can operate as a winger or as an attacking midfielder, is out of contract at Manchester City at the end of the season and is available on a free transfer. TuttoJuve has reported that Barcelona […]
Real Madrid booked their place in the Champions League last 16 as Vinicius Junior was on target during Los Blancos’ 2-1 win over Benfica in the second leg of their play-off tie. Vinicius’ goal from the first leg had already put Madrid ahead in the tie, and the Brazilian netted again in the 80th minute […]
Few stories in modern European football have captured the imagination quite like the rise of Bodø/Glimt. A club once known mainly to Norwegian football followers has now erupted onto the Champions League stage, stunning some of Europe’s heaviest hitters and rewriting expectations for what an underdog can achieve. Their 2025/26 campaign has become more than […]
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that both Micky van de Ven and Alessandro Bastoni could be on the move in the summer transfer window. The well-known and well-respected Italian journalist has claimed that while Netherlands international central defender Van de Ven could leave Tottenham, Italy international centre-back Bastoni could severe his ties with Inter. Romano said […]
A German agent has said that he wants Florian Wirtz to leave Liverpool and join Real Madrid in the future. Volker Struth, who leads German agency Sport 360, has revealed that he was trying to convince Madrid president Florentino Perez to sign Wirtz in the summer of 2025 before the Germany international attacking midfielder joined […]
Real Madrid have no plans to sell Eduardo Camavinga in the summer transfer window, according to Fabrizio Romano. There have been rumours that Manchester United want to sign Camavinga, with the Premier League club looking at the France international midfielder as a replacement for Casemiro, who will leave Old Trafford at the end of the […]
Prediction: Juventus to win 2-1 Best Odds: 13/2 Bookmaker: Zetbet Juventus and Galatasaray will lock horns with each other in the UEFA Champions League this week. The second leg of the Knockout Round Play-off tie between the Serie A club and the Turkish Super Lig outfit will be held at Juventus Stadium in Turin and […]
Bayer Leverkusen will face Bayern Munich or Arsenal in the last 16 of the Champions League after playing out a 0-0 draw with Olympiacos in their play-off second leg. Leverkusen already led the tie by two goals after their win in Greece, and despite creating a number of chances, they were unable to improve their […]
Bodo/Glimt completed a stunning 5-2 aggregate success over last season’s runners-up Inter in the Champions League play-offs, after a terrific 2-1 win at San Siro. Jens Petter Hauge, formerly of Inter’s rivals AC Milan, made it 1-0 after a Manuel Akanji error, with Hakon Evjen’s glorious strike then doubling Bodo’s lead on the night. Alessandro […]
Newcastle United cruised into the last 16 of the Champions League after edging a five-goal thriller with Qarabag, winning their play-off second-leg 3-2 at St. James’ Park. The damage had already been done in the first leg after Anthony Gordon’s four-goal display in a 6-1 Newcastle success, and despite a closer contest here, the Magpies […]
Alexander Sorloth scored a hat-trick as Atletico Madrid booked their place in the last 16 of the Champions League with a 4-1 win over Club Brugge in their play-off second-leg. Sorloth opened and concluded the scoring at the Estadio Metropolitano on Tuesday, with Diego Simeone’s side coming out on top to win the tie 7-4 […]
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