After an uncertain start to the 2026 Major League Soccer season, Inter Miami have improved their performances and put together two consecutive wins. Now it is their turn to make their debut in the Concacaf Champions Cup against Nashville SC, with Lionel Messi once again at the center of attention.

The Argentine forward was decisive in recent victories against Orlando City and D.C. United, recording three goals and one assist combined. Now he faces the challenge of delivering similar performances on the continental stage and leading Inter Miami into the tournament’s quarterfinals.

The challenge, however, will not be easy. Nashville SC have proven to be a tough opponent and know the Herons well. Last year, the two teams met in the opening round of the Eastern Conference playoffs, and Nashville forced a decisive third match to settle the series.

While Inter Miami’s match this Wednesday at Geodis Park marks their debut in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup after qualifying directly by winning the 2025 MLS Cup, Nashville SC had to advance through an earlier round. They defeated Atletico Ottawa with a 7-0 aggregate score.

Projected lineup for Nashville SC

Considering the importance of Wednesday night’s matchup, head coach B. J. Callaghan is expected to field the strongest possible lineup, setting aside any fatigue from Saturday’s MLS match against Minnesota United FC.

The projected XI for Nashville SC against Inter Miami is: Brian Schwake; Daniel Lovitz, Maxwell Woledzi, Jeisson Palacios, Andy Najar; Edvard Tagseth, Patrick Yazbek; Alex Muyl, Hany Mukhtar, Cristian Espinoza; Sam Surridge.

Projected lineup for Inter Miami

The Herons also played their MLS Matchday 3 match last Saturday against D.C. United in Baltimore. With just over three days of rest, however, head coach Javier Mascherano is expected to keep most of the usual starters.

The projected XI for Inter Miami in their visit to Nashville SC is: Dayne St. Clair; Facundo Mura, Maximiliano Falcon, Micael, Noah Allen; Mateo Silvetti, Yannick Bright, Rodrigo De Paul, Telasco Segovia; Lionel Messi, German Berterame.

The debate surrounding Lionel Messi and his failed return to Barcelona in 2023 has resurfaced with new intensity ahead of the club’s presidential elections. In recent days, Javier Tebas has broken his silence regarding the growing conflict between Joan Laporta and Xavi Hernandez, a dispute that has reignited questions about why the Argentine icon never made his long-awaited return to the Catalan club.

The controversy has divided key figures within the Barcelona hierarchy and Spanish soccer itself. Former club officials, current executives, and league authorities are now presenting conflicting versions of what really happened behind the scenes during the attempted reunion between Messi and the club where he built his legendary career. With elections approaching and emotions running high among supporters, the debate has evolved from a simple transfer story into a political battle within the Blaugrana’s leadership.

The latest twist in the saga emerged when former Barcelona sporting director Mateu Alemany publicly supported the claims made by Xavi regarding the attempted transfer. Alemany, who worked at Barcelona between 2021 and 2023 and now operates within the structure of Atletico Madrid, stated that the former Barcelona coach’s version of events was accurate.

According to him, club officials believed they had already received approval for the move. “Xavi is right, they told us they had it [approval from La Liga],” Alemany explained. Xavi had previously ignited the controversy by suggesting that Messi’s return to Barcelona was close to being finalized before it unexpectedly collapsed. The former coach implied that internal decisions within the club ultimately prevented the deal from happening.

What did Javier Tebas say?

Amid the escalating debate, La Liga president Javier Tebas stepped forward to directly address the claims. In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Tebas categorically rejected the idea that the league had authorized Barcelona to complete the signing. “La Liga never had that ‘yes,’ and nobody had ever asked us for it,” Tebas said.

He further explained that the league could not have approved the operation because it lacked key financial information regarding the potential deal. “It was impossible to give approval when we didn’t even know what he would earn. Moreover, applying the regulations, the salary level assigned to him would have made it impossible.”

According to him, Barcelona never formally approached La Liga to begin the process of registering Messi under the competition’s strict financial fair-play rules. “Nobody from Barcelona even asked about Messi’s situation in 2023 — nobody made any inquiry,” he added. His comments strongly contradict both Xavi’s claims and Alemany’s support of that narrative.

Political tension ahead of Barcelona elections

The Messi controversy has now become a central issue in the club’s presidential race, scheduled for March 15. Presidential candidate Víctor Font, who has previously aligned himself with Xavi’s vision, has called for transparency regarding what truly happened during the attempted signing.

Font argued that Barcelona members deserve clarity before casting their votes. “I think Messi won’t speak out between now and Sunday, but I hope he will,” Font said. “Explain the truth – about his departure from the club and his attempt to return in 2023 – so that the members will not vote deceived.”

Match Overview

Momentum is building for Nashville SC, which arrive with seven points from its first three matches and added confidence after knocking out Atletico Ottawa. That strong start sets the stage for a marquee MLS showdown against one of the league’s biggest stars and most dangerous contenders.

Inter Miami, guided by global icon Lionel Messi, continue their push as a title hopeful and looks to secure another important result in a matchup loaded with MLS intensity. With both sides playing quality soccer early in the campaign, this clash has all the ingredients for a thrilling contest.

The future of Cristiano Ronaldo and his working relationship with Jorge Jesus could soon become one of the most intriguing storylines in world soccer. With the Portuguese star currently leading the attack for Al‑Nassr, and speculation swirling about the future of the Portugal national team, new reports suggest that the veteran coach’s next career step may lead to a high-profile showdown with another Portuguese managerial giant. That potential rival is none other than Jose Mourinho, currently managing Benfica, who is also being linked to the same major opportunity.

The situation could set up an intriguing battle between two of Portugal’s most respected coaches for one of the most coveted positions in international soccer. While Ronaldo’s future remains a major talking point as he approaches the later stages of his legendary career, the decisions made by these two coaches may ultimately influence what comes next for both the player and the national team.

Jorge Jesus is currently under contract with Al-Nassr until June 2026, but reports indicate that the experienced Portuguese coach has already mapped out the next phase of his career. After successful spells across multiple leagues, including his memorable stint with Flamengo, Jesus has developed a reputation as one of the most respected tactical minds in the game. His work in Saudi Arabia has also drawn attention, particularly for how he has adapted his style and approach.

Once known for relying on a relatively small group of players and sticking rigidly to one tactical system, Jesus has shown greater flexibility this season. Observers have noted that he has rotated his squad more often and experimented with different strategies, an evolution that has impressed many followers of the club. However, the biggest revelation about his future plans concerns what he hopes to do once his contract in Saudi Arabia expires.

The plan to take charge of Portugal after the 2026 World Cup

According to reports from ESPN Brasil, Jorge Jesus has identified the Portugal national team job as his primary objective once his Al-Nassr contract ends in 2026. The position is currently held by Roberto Martinez, whose contract is expected to run through the 2026 FIFA World Cup. After that tournament, the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) is expected to reassess its coaching situation.

For Jesus, taking charge of his country’s national team would represent the pinnacle of his managerial career. Leading Portugal would allow him to work with the nation’s top talents on the international stage while applying his tactical philosophy in a different environment from club soccer. National team management typically involves fewer matches but greater focus on tournament preparation, something that appeals to the veteran coach.

The possibility of guiding players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, should the superstar still be involved with the national side, would also add another fascinating dimension to the potential partnership.

Mourinho emerges as major competition

Despite Jesus’ clear ambition, the path to the Portugal job is far from straightforward. Another high-profile candidate is Jose Mourinho, who is currently in charge of Benfica. The legendary manager is widely respected for his success across Europe and is seen by many as a natural contender for the national team role.

According to previous reports from ESPN journalist Mark Ogden, sources in Portugal believe Mourinho could be offered the job once Martinez’s tenure comes to an end. However, Mourinho’s situation differs slightly from Jesus’ in terms of contract timing.

The Benfica coach reportedly remains tied to his club until 2027, which could complicate negotiations if the Portuguese federation wishes to appoint a new manager immediately after the World Cup. By contrast, Jesus would become a free agent in mid-2026, potentially giving him an advantage in the race.

There has been a major development at Milan, where Christian Pulisic and Santiago Gimenez could soon reunite on the pitch after months of uncertainty surrounding the Mexican striker’s fitness. The Rossoneri have finally received encouraging news regarding Gimenez following a long injury absence that kept him away from competitive action for more than four months.

The update arrives at a crucial stage of the Serie A campaign, as Milan prepares for a pivotal clash against Lazio. While fans and teammates alike have been eager to see the striker return, questions remain about whether he will be ready to play immediately or if the club will take a cautious approach to his comeback.

The uncertainty surrounding Gimenez’s availability has been one of the biggest storylines around the Rossoneri’s attack, especially given how important his presence could be alongside Pulisic and the team’s other offensive options during the decisive final stretch of the season.

Gimenez’s absence dates back to October 28, 2025, when he last appeared in a Serie A match during Milan’s 1-1 draw against Atalanta in Bergamo. The striker was forced off the pitch after suffering a painful ankle injury, which ultimately led to a lengthy rehabilitation process. Initially, the club attempted conservative treatment to resolve the problem.

However, when that approach failed to fully heal the injury, the Mexican forward underwent ankle surgery on December 19, 2025. The procedure was considered necessary to permanently resolve an issue that had troubled him for months. As a result, Gimenez spent a total of 133 days away from competitive play, missing more than 20 matches across Serie A, the Coppa Italia, and the Italian Super Cup.

Back in training with the squad

After months of recovery, Milan finally received the update it had been waiting for: Gimenez has returned to full training with the first team at Milanello. The striker participated in the squad’s latest training session following the club’s derby victory over Inter Milan, marking his first involvement with the team since his injury.

His return was warmly welcomed by teammates, who reportedly celebrated his comeback during the session. Observers at the training ground noted that the Mexican forward looked physically sharp and more intense than expected, suggesting his recovery may be progressing faster than anticipated. According to Corriere dello Sport, the player’s comeback represents the end of what many at the club described as a “long ordeal.”

Will Gimenez be ready for Lazio?

Despite the positive progress, Milan has not yet confirmed whether Gimenez will immediately return to match action. The Rossoneri will travel to the Stadio Olimpico to face Lazio in what could be a decisive fixture in the Serie A title race. While the striker’s return to training is a major step forward, the final decision regarding his inclusion in the squad will depend on how he responds in the coming training sessions.

Reports suggest that if he completes the week’s preparations without setbacks, Gimenez could be included in the matchday squad. However, it is unlikely that he will start the match given the length of his absence. If the coaching staff decides to wait longer, the forward could instead target Milan’s next league match against Torino at San Siro.

Beyond club ambitions, there is another major objective driving the player’s motivation: earning a place in the 2026 World Cup squad with Mexico.

Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar has sent a message of solidarity with Tottenham Hotspur’s Antonin Kinsky. ‘A similar thing happened to me on my Champions League debut.’

The Giallorossi are preparing for the first leg of the Europa League Round of 16 against fellow Italians Bologna, which kicks off at the Stadio Dall’Ara on Thursday at 17.45 GMT (18.45 CET).

Ahead of that clash, Svilar wanted to take a moment to reassure a colleague who was hauled off the pitch just 16 minutes into a disastrous performance against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League last night.

Svilar latest to reassure Kinsky

“A similar thing happened to me eight years ago, I too made a mistake in my Champions League debut, and it took quite a few years for me to get over it,” Svilar told Sky Sport Italia.

“I feel bad for him, but I’ve seen him play many times, and in my view he will become a great goalkeeper. This incident will only help him to reach that level.”

Of course, Svilar was not taken off the pitch after just 16 minutes of the tie, which is what coach Igor Tudor did to Kinsky last night, replacing him with Italy international Guglielmo Vicario.

He was also only 18 years old when making that Champions League bow for Benfica in a 1-0 group stage home defeat to Manchester United in October 2017, and stayed on for the entire match.

Meanwhile, the Roma shot-stopper is focused on the Europa League tie with Bologna, hoping to shore up the defence after conceding five goals in the last two Serie A games.

“It can happen over a long season. On the other side, we are scoring more goals recently, and our defence was solid for such a long time, it will go back to that.”

The team had already been ticking up the results at the end of last season and only narrowly missed out on Champions League qualification under Claudio Ranieri.

How have things changed for the Giallorossi with Gian Piero Gasperini at the helm?

“He likes a more direct approach, without too many passes in defence, as we want to make our quality count going forward.”

A legend of the Napoli locker room who goes back to the Diego Maradona days has anointed Scott McTominay as a ‘Neapolitan-Scotsman’ now he ‘can’t do without our coffee.’

The Scotland international has flourished in Italy since making the move from Manchester United in 2024, as he won the Serie A title and the Supercoppa Italiana, being named Player of the Year in Italy’s top league.

Now the 29-year-old has become a true member of the local family, embraced by an icon of the club’s history, kit man Tommy Starace.

The figure has been part of the staff since the days when Diego Armando Maradona was the star man, and one of his main jobs is keeping everyone busy with a steady supply of freshly made espresso.

Even McTominay convinced by Napoli habit

“McTominay didn’t like our coffee when he arrived, but now he can’t do without it,” Starace told Radio Kiss Kiss.

“He is not Scottish. He’s a Neapolitan-Scotsman.”

Starace is also famous because former Napoli star Dries Mertens used to copy his dance moves as a goal celebration.

“I have a friendship built over the years not only with Mertens, but also Insigne, McTominay and many others.”

A big part of that is the gesture of carrying around the coffee, pouring it fresh from the Moka stovetop pot, sometimes even for television presenters and pundits who happen to be on the pitch during the warm-up.

Che grande il nostro Tommaso Starace! Questa è la nostra Napoli! pic.twitter.com/peR2Qn0sMT

— Francesco (@Francesco_abyss) March 11, 2023

“Coffee is not just coffee, it is love, it means respect for a person, that we are grateful to have you with us,” he added.

“We Neapolitans have a good heart, so we like to welcome everyone with the same perfume of coffee in the air.”

It is not the only Italian habit that McTominay has picked up, because he also confessed that he used to hate eating tomatoes because they “tasted like red water,” but changed his mind after trying the Neapolitan version.

Gian Piero Gasperini insists Roma are not prioritising Serie A ahead of the Europa League clash with Bologna, despite an injury crisis in attack. ‘Donyell Malen’s situation is very rare.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Dall’Ara on Thursday at 17.45 GMT (18.45 CET).

The second leg will be at the Stadio Olimpico next week, as we know only one Italian team will make it to the quarter-finals of the tournament.

It is confirmed that the Giallorossi will be without suspended Gianluca Mancini, plus injured Matias Soulé, Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson, but Mario Hermoso is included in the list.

Gasperini has reduced Roma options

“We’ll see tomorrow, at the moment Hermoso is available and could play, but he’s been out for a while, so we’ll see if it’s from the start or off the bench,” explained Gasperini in his press conference.

“At least one Italian team will get through for sure. It’s true the trend for Italian teams in Europe has not been good this season, even worse if we add in the Nazionale struggles, so evidently it’s not a coincidence.

“We all need to dig deep and explain what the problem is, the coaches, clubs, and probably the media too. It’s not about a tactical issue, there’s something deeper that probably stems from the youth academies and the way teams are built.”

Considering he has won the Europa League with Atalanta, but also that Roma have a Serie A battle with Como this weekend for fourth place, which is the priority for them?

“Every game is important, we cannot make calculations, but take them one at a time trying to give our best in each one,” replied the coach.

“The priority is both competitions, perhaps a few weeks ago we also had the Coppa Italia and therefore saw Serie A as the priority, but we never thought about just letting anything go.

“I don’t see any way of giving less in a match situation. It’s possible we won’t play as well in some games as others, but it won’t be by choice.”

The January signings have made a big impact, most notably striker Malen, who will finally get to play in the Europa League with Roma after he was cup-tied for the league phase due to his time with Aston Villa.

“We are scoring more goals, the trend is positive thanks also to the arrival of Malen, who has made us more dangerous in attack,” confirmed Gasperini.

“We have certainly lost several important players in attack, but Malen has given us something extra. Bryan Zaragoza needs time to adapt, he’s only been here for a month, so the situations like Malen who hit the ground running in a new team are very rare.

“With both Dybala and Soulé out, we have had to rotate players in those support roles. Lorenzo Pellegrini has played there most consistently, but Lorenzo Venturino, Robinio Vaz and Stephan El Shaarawy can all play there.”

Has Gasperini spoken to Pellegrini about his future, with the contract running down?

“No, this is not something we need to discuss now, as it’s a fundamental stage of the season, and we need to focus on the pitch.”

Could Malen and Vaz even start together tomorrow?

“Anything is possible,” smiled the coach.

Lazio goalkeeper Ivan Provedel has been released from hospital, as the surgeon who operated on his shoulder warns ‘this is the equivalent of an anterior cruciate ligament tear for a midfielder.’

The shot-stopper sustained the injury in training and it was identified by an MRI scan as a lesion of the glenohumeral ligament alongside involvement of the glenoid labrum.

He went under the knife and has now been released from hospital, as confirmed by a statement on the official Lazio website.

Recovery process begins for Provedel

Provedel must wear a brace stabilising his movements for at least a month, after which he can begin the rehabilitation treatment.

This is expected to be a long process, with reports it will require four to five months on the sidelines, ending his season early.

“We must not rush this, there are some biological steps that have to be taken, so nature must take its course,” surgeon Giovanni Di Giacomo told the Corriere dello Sport via Tuttomercatoweb after performing the operation.

“Provedel was highly motivated and eager to get back on the field. However, this is a serious injury. For a goalkeeper, a shoulder issue like this is the equivalent of a torn anterior cruciate ligament of the knee for a midfielder.”

Lazio have been forced to use their second choice goalkeeper, Edoardo Motta, who was signed from Reggina in January.

He made his Serie A debut in Monday evening’s 2-1 victory over Sassuolo and only turned 21 in January.

Bayer Leverkusen scored from a corner against Arsenal to take a 1-0 lead early in the second half of their Champions League round-of-16 first leg.

The goal, scored controversially by Robert Andrich in the 46th minute, has added a layer of irony to an already high-stakes encounter at the BayArena.

The deadlock was broken just seconds after the restart when Alejandro Grimaldo swung an inviting delivery into the heart of the Arsenal box.

Andrich, who had narrowly escaped a red card in the first half, rose highest to power a header past David Raya, leaving the “set-piece experts” shell-shocked.

Leverkusen manager went straight to Arsenal set-piece coach

In a moment of pure sporting theater, Bayer Leverkusen manager Kasper Hjulmand immediately sprinted toward the Arsenal technical area following the goal.

According to TNT Sports, Hjulmand went straight to Arsenal’s renowned set-piece coach, Nicolas Jover, to celebrate.

The exchange appeared to be a pointed reference to the pre-match tension between the two camps.

Bayer Leverkusen manager, Kasper Hjulmand, immediately went over to Arsenal's set-piece coach, Nicolas Jover, after they scored from a corner against the Gunners ? pic.twitter.com/aBSbQPbi5R

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 11, 2026

Hjulmand had spent the build-up to the game questioning the legality of Jover’s blocking tactics, suggesting that Arsenal often push the boundaries of the rules.

To see Leverkusen beat Arsenal at their own game, scoring from a corner, provided a moment of supreme irony that Hjulmand clearly couldn’t resist highlighting.

Bayer Leverkusen’s “No corners allowed” mind games

Ahead of the match, Leverkusen had leaned into the the set-piece merchants narrative surrounding Mikel Arteta’s side by placing “No Corners Allowed” warning signs around the corner arcs at the BayArena.

The signs, which featured a red slash through a corner flag, were shared across social media with the caption “Worth a try.”

Bayer Leverkusen posted “no corners allowed” ahead of facing Arsenal…

Then went on to score from a corner themselves ? pic.twitter.com/nKex3MrnOh

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 11, 2026

While many viewed it as harmless banter, the tactical preparation behind it was evident as Leverkusen neutralised Arsenal’s primary threat throughout the first half.

By scoring from a corner themselves, Leverkusen have not only taken the lead in the tie but have also struck a significant psychological blow against Jover and Arteta.

With the match still ongoing, Arsenal now face the challenge of proving they can find a breakthrough in open play against a Leverkusen side that seems to have solved their set-piece puzzle.

The post Bayer Leverkusen manager’s savage reaction after his team scored from corner vs Arsenal appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Frankfurt defender Nnamdi Collins has been linked with a move away from the German club at the end of the season. 

The 22-year-old defender has done well for the German outfit, and clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool are monitoring his progress. It will be interesting to see if they decide to make a move for him at the end of the season.

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In an interview with The Mirror, the defender has revealed that he has read the reports linking him with Premier League clubs, but he is happy at the German club and is not considering a move.

He told: “It actually bounces off me pretty well. I’m reading these rumours for the first time myself, which is why I’m partly surprised. I’m very happy to be here at Eintracht.”

Collins has impressed in Germany, and he brings physicality to English football as well. He could prove to be a useful acquisition for clubs like Liverpool. Liverpool needs more depth in the defensive unit, especially with players like Ibrahima Konaté and Joe Gomez expected to leave in the summer.

It will be interesting to see if they are prepared to test the resolve of the German club with an offer in the summer. The player is valued at £34 million, and they have the financial muscle to get the deal done. Even though the player has claimed that he is happy in Germany, the opportunity to join a club like Liverpool will be hard to turn down.

Similarly, Arsenal are an elite club. However, they have plenty of quality defenders at their disposal. They might not be able to offer Collins a regular starting role. He needs to join a club where he can play every week. Perhaps the move to Liverpool would be best suited for him.

The post “I’m very happy…”: £34m star reacts to transfer links with Arsenal and Liverpool appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Robert Andrich should have been sent off in the opening stages of Arsenal’s Champions League clash against Bayer Leverkusen, according to BBC reporter Alex Howell.

The midfielder, who was already on a yellow card, escaped a second booking for a cynical foul that has now left Mikel Arteta’s side facing a mountain to climb in Germany.

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The incident occurred early in the first leg of the round-of-16 tie at the BayArena.

Having already been cautioned in the very first minute for a heavy challenge on Viktor Gyokeres, Andrich appeared to strike again just moments later, manhandling the Swedish striker to stop a dangerous Arsenal counter-attack.

Andrich lucky to avoid sending off

Despite the clear nature of the infringement, the referee opted for a final warning rather than a dismissal.

Howell, providing live commentary on the match, highlighted the leniency of the officiating.

Howell tweeted:

“Andrich is very lucky to not get a second yellow for that foul on Gyökeres. One of those where you can imagine him getting one if he hadn’t been booked already.”

Andrich is very luck to not get a second yellow for that foul on Gyokeres. One of those where you can imagine him getting one if he hadn't been booked already

— Alex Howell (@iamAlexHowell) March 11, 2026

The decision to keep eleven men on the pitch for the hosts sparked immediate frustration from the Arsenal bench.

Andrich goal makes it worse for Arsenal

The failure to dismiss the German international became significantly more costly just seconds after the restart.

In the 46th minute, the very man who should have been in the dressing room found himself in the right place at the right time.

Andrich rose highest to meet a delivery in the box, heading the hosts into a 1-0 lead and punishing Arsenal for their inability to capitalize on their early dominance.

Robert Andrich fires Bayer Leverkusen into the lead against Arsenal ?@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/RKnz6XOFUq

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 11, 2026

The goal has completely shifted the momentum of the tie, leaving the Premier League leaders reeling in a hostile atmosphere.

Should Leverkusen hold on to their lead, or extend it, the decision to spare Andrich will undoubtedly be the main talking point for Mikel Arteta in his post-match assessment.

The post BBC reporter reveals major Arsenal decision vs Bayer Leverkusen that changed the game appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea and Newcastle United are interested in signing the FC Koln winger Said El Mala. 

According to German publication Kicker, Chelsea is making serious efforts to sign the 19-year-old attacker at the end of the season, and it will be interesting to see if they can get that deal done. The player has registered 12 goal contributions this season, and he has impressed with his performances in German football.

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He has the technical attributes for the Premier League as well, and he could be a very useful acquisition for Chelsea. They need someone who can take on defenders and beat them in one-on-one situations. They need to add more unpredictability in the final third.

El Mala could be a solid long-term acquisition for Chelsea. They are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to play for them will be quite exciting for the young attacker as well. It would be a huge opportunity for him, and he will look to prove himself at the highest level.

Regular football in the Premier League could accelerate his development and bring out the best in him.

Meanwhile, Newcastle United are on the player as well. They have an ambitious project and are looking to build a team capable of regularly fighting for trophies. They need more cutting-edge in the final third, and the 19-year-old would be an asset for them. It will be interesting to see whether they can convince the player to join the club rather than move to Chelsea.

El Mala will look to play regularly at a high-level and both clubs could be interesting opportunities for him. It will be interesting to see what he decides in the end.

The post Chelsea making serious efforts to sign 12-G/A gem from Germany to ignite attack appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Bayern Munich are not interested in signing Tottenham Hotspur starlet Archie Gray, according to renowned German journalist Christian Falk.

Despite previous links suggesting the Bavarian giants were monitoring the versatile 19-year-old, Falk has clarified that the Bundesliga leaders have other priorities for their summer recruitment.

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Gray, who joined Spurs from Leeds United for £40 million in 2024, has been a rare bright spark in an otherwise calamitous season for the North London club. However, it appears his future does not lie at the Allianz Arena.

Bayern Munich not interested in Archie Gray

Speaking to CFBayern, Christian Falk dismissed the rumours of a potential move, claiming that Bayern Munich are ‘not interested’ in signing Archie Gray.

The primary reason for Bayern’s lack of interest is their commitment to their own youth setup.

While there is no doubt about Gray’s quality, Bayern already possess a strong pool of emerging talent coming through their academy ranks.

The club is reportedly focused on the development of 19-year-old Lennart Karl, who has already broken into Vincent Kompany’s first-team squad, as well as highly-rated prospects David Santos and Noel Aseko.

Archie Gray could be a man in demand if Spurs are relegated

While Bayern have bowed out of the race, a move to Germany remains a distinct possibility.

Borussia Dortmund are reportedly considering Gray as a potential long-term replacement for Julian Brandt, who is expected to leave the Signal Iduna Park at the end of the season.

Real Madrid have also shown interest in the talented player.

The interest in Gray comes amid growing uncertainty at Tottenham. Currently sitting just one point above the relegation zone following a string of defeats under interim boss Igor Tudor, Spurs could face a mass exodus of talent if the unthinkable happens and they drop into the Championship.

Gray’s versatility, having played at right-back, center-back, and across the midfield this season, has also attracted interest from Real Madrid.

However, reports suggest the youngster has reassured Spurs that he is prepared to ‘lead the fightback’ even if they are relegated.

Whether Tottenham can resist substantial bids for their £55 million-rated generational talent remains to be seen.

The post Reliable journalist drops update on Archie Gray to Bayern Munich as relegation fears grow appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal are interested in signing the SC Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi. 

The 20-year-old Swiss midfielder has impressed in the Bundesliga, and Arsenal are hoping to secure his signature at the end of the season. He could cost around £43 million, according to TEAMtalk, and it will be interesting to see whether Arsenal is prepared to pay up for him.

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They have the resources to get the deal across the line, and they should be able to convince the player to join the club as well. Other clubs are monitoring his progress, and Arsenal might need to act quickly in order to win the race for his signature.

The highly talented box-to-box midfielder will add energy, drive, and creativity to the team. His arrival will be bad news for Christian Norgaard, who has already struggled for regular opportunities since joining the London club. It is fair to assume that signing the Bundesliga midfielder will signal the end of Norgaard at Arsenal.

The 32-year-old joined Arsenal in the summer of 2025, and he has played 56 minutes of Premier League football this season.

It will be interesting to see how the situation develops. The young midfielder will need regular opportunities to continue his development. He must seek assurances on game time before joining Arsenal. Sitting on the bench at a big club would be detrimental to his development.

The technically gifted midfielder has the qualities to succeed in English football, and Arsenal could nurture him into a future star. They have done well to groom young players in the past.

Mikel Arteta has done well in handling young players since taking over at Arsenal as well. He could play a key role in developing the 20-year-old midfielder. Arsenal are among the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to play for them will be hard for the youngster. It remains to be seen whether the two clubs can finalise a deal.

The post Arsenal eye €50m raid for Swiss sensation, could spell the end for 2025 signing appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen is being linked with a return to the Premier League, and Liverpool is keen on securing his signature.

According to reports from Spain, they would be willing to pay €70 million in order to sign the talented young defender. The 20-year-old is highly rated across Europe, and he has previously shown his quality in the Premier League with Bournemouth. There is no doubt that he can succeed in La Liga as well, and it will be interesting to see whether Real Madrid is willing to sanction his departure.

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They need quality and depth in the defensive unit, and the 20-year-old is a long-term asset. It would not be a surprise if they refused to sanction his departure.

Meanwhile, Liverpool needs more quality in the defensive unit. They are likely to lose Ibrahima Konate in the summer when his contract expires. The French International has not signed an extension with the club. In addition, Joe Gomez could be on his way out of the club as well. He needs to play regularly at this stage of his career, and Liverpool will not be able to provide him with that opportunity.

Signing a talented young central defender should be a priority for Liverpool, and the Spaniard would be ideal for them. He knows the Premier League well, and he could make an immediate impact. The opportunity to join Liverpool could be an interesting option for the player, especially if Real Madrid is willing to sanction his departure. It remains to be seen how the situation develops over the next few months.

Real Madrid paid €50 million for him, and the opportunity to make a quick profit could be tempting. Also, Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, knows the player well from his time at Bournemouth, and he might be able to convince the player to return to England.

The post Liverpool ready to drop £60m on La Liga star Richard Hughes knows well appeared first on CaughtOffside.

The road to the 2026 World Cup is already generating intriguing storylines, and one of the most fascinating could involve three legendary figures of the modern game. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi could be joined by Guillermo Ochoa in making history at the tournament, as the experienced Mexican goalkeeper suddenly finds himself back in contention for a remarkable career milestone following a major injury to the Mexico national team’s first-choice goalkeeper.

The development came after a devastating injury to Luis Malagon, the regular starter for the national team and goalkeeper for Club America, which could now dramatically reshape the squad heading into soccer’s biggest tournament. The situation has unexpectedly reopened the door for Ochoa, a long-time cult hero for Mexico, to return to the world stage in what could become one of the most remarkable chapters of his career.

What makes the situation even more intriguing is the historic significance that may await if everything falls into place.

Malagon suffers devastating injury blow

Mexico’s preparations for the upcoming World Cup suffered a huge setback during a CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16 match between Club America and Philadelphia Union.

During the match, Malagon received the ball near his goal and attempted to clear it, but as he planted his foot to strike the ball, his leg suddenly gave way. The goalkeeper collapsed immediately, clutching his left foot in visible pain. Medical staff rushed onto the pitch, and the 29-year-old was eventually carried off on a stretcher.

After the match, Club America manager Andre Jardine revealed the worrying initial diagnosis. “We think it’s an injury that’s pretty serious,” Jardine explained. “Probably an Achilles tendon injury. Hopefully it’s not a complete tear, but probably a partial tear at the very least that will keep him sidelined for a good amount of time.”

Early medical assessments suggest that the Mexican shot-stopper may require surgery and could face six to nine months on the sidelines, effectively ruling him out of the World Cup. The injury represents a huge blow for both club and country. Malagon had been El Tri’s most trusted goalkeeper since Javier Aguirre returned as national team manager in 2024 and was the starter when Mexico won the CONCACAF Gold Cup and the CONCACAF Nations League in 2025.

The historic milestone suddenly within reach

While Malagon’s absence is tragic for the player, it has unexpectedly opened a door for veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa. At 40 years old, Ochoa remains active with Limassol in Cyprus and has made it clear that he still hopes to represent Mexico at the upcoming World Cup.

If selected, Ochoa could achieve a milestone that no player in history has ever accomplished, appearing in six different FIFA World Cups. Both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are also aiming for the same unprecedented achievement. Each has already played in five tournaments:

• Messi: 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022
• Ronaldo: 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022

Ochoa has an identical record, having featured for Mexico in 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022. If the trio were selected for the 2026 tournament, they would become the first players ever to participate in six World Cups, rewriting a piece of soccer history.

Real Madrid and Manchester City go head-to-head on Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabéu in the first leg of the 2025-26 Champions League Round of 16, a heavyweight clash between two of the competition’s perennial contenders. Stay with us throughout the evening as we bring you every key moment from what promises to be a memorable night in Madrid.

Real Madrid return to Champions League action following a controversial playoff series against Benfica, in which Vinícius Júnior and Gianluca Prestianni emerged as two of the central figures. However, Los Blancos head into the game far from their sharpest form, having managed just two wins from their last four matches across all competitions, including a defeat at home to Getafe at the Bernabéu.

Manchester City, meanwhile, arrive in better shape despite dropping points in the Premier League title race with Arsenal. Their last defeat came against Bodø/Glimt on January 20, and since then Pep Guardiola’s side have gone on an 11-game unbeaten run, collecting nine wins and two draws across all competitions.

The showdown between Real Madrid and Manchester City is, without a doubt, the most attractive matchup of the Champions League Round of 16. Without Kylian Mbappe but with Vinicius Junior leading the attack, the Spanish side will try to take advantage at home in the first leg. However, they must be cautious of the ever-dangerous threat posed by Erling Haaland.

Beyond the significance of this match and the quality of both teams, recent history adds another intriguing layer to the matchup. Real Madrid and Manchester City have faced each other in the knockout stages of the Champions League in five of the last six editions.

Although the winning side has varied each time, with three victories for the Spaniards and two for the English club, one unusual statistic has remained constant: the team that scored the first goal of the series ended up being eliminated.

That pattern even repeated itself in the match they played during this season’s league phase at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. On December 10, 2025, Real Madrid took the lead through a goal from Rodrygo, but the Citizens turned the score around with goals from Nico O’Reilly and Erling Haaland.

Recent history between Real Madrid and Manchester City

The run of frequent meetings between Real Madrid and Manchester City in the Champions League began in the 2019-20 season. In that tie, the Spanish club scored the first goal through Isco, but they were eventually eliminated after losing both matches in the Round of 16.

In 2021 the two sides did not face each other, although they came close. Manchester City reached the final against Chelsea, who in the previous round had eliminated Real Madrid with a 3-1 aggregate score. That was the only edition in the last seven in which the two clubs did not meet.

Real Madrid won the title in the 2021-22 season. On their way to the trophy, they had to eliminate Manchester City in the semifinals, doing so with a 6-5 aggregate score. The series had started in favor of the English side with a goal from Kevin De Bruyne, but they were unable to hold onto that advantage.

In 2023, the trophy was lifted by Manchester City for the first time in their history. In the semifinals, they got their revenge and defeated Los Blancos, who had opened the scoring in the series thanks to a goal from Vinicius. The 4-0 win in the second leg showed the dominance of Pep Guardiola’s side that year.

In the 2023-24 season, it was Real Madrid who advanced on penalties, even though that quarterfinal series had started with a goal from Bernardo Silva. And a year later, Haaland put Manchester City ahead early in the first leg of the playoff round, but the series ended with a convincing 6-5 aggregate victory for the Spanish side.

After announcing his retirement in 2023, former Real Madrid star Eden Hazard stayed away from everything related to soccer for quite some time. Nevertheless, the Belgian decided to break his silence, speaking about Vinicius Jr. He not only acknowledged his great talent but also talked about all the challenges he must face. He even chose to give some surprising comments about the Brazilian’s retirement, delivering a strong critique.

“Nowadays, people talk more about what he does off the pitch or what he goes through, rather than what he brings to the game. People forget what an exceptional player he is. All this must weigh on him. It can’t be easy to take to the pitch thinking only about soccer. I wouldn’t be surprised if, at 30, he said he was leaving, that he was quitting soccer, because nothing would change anyway,” Eden Hazard said, via RTBF.

While Vinicius Jr. remains one of the best players in the world, everything surrounding the Brazilian veers far from soccer, with accusations of racism and on-field behavior being the main topics. Although he managed to overcome these criticisms at first, this season his performance has dropped noticeably, making pressure a possible factor. Because of this, the Belgian points to potential burnout for the 25-year-old star that could lead him to retirement.

Far from Vinicius being the only one affected in this regard, Lamine Yamal has also been a victim of this pressure, as everything around him revolved around matters outside of sport. Because of this, the Spaniard decided to step back from social media and the press. While the Brazilian often plays a provocative character, he frequently becomes a target of racial discrimination and harsh criticism—something that should never happen.

Vinícius Jr. emerges as a leading figure against racism in soccer

Throughout his sporting career, Vinicius Jr. has always been a highly provocative figure, angering many opponents and fans. Because of this, he has become a target of racial discrimination from some spectators, who demand that he tone down his constant provocations. Nevertheless, the goal is not to change the Brazilian but to eliminate any form of discrimination from soccer, with him serving as a leading figure in this cause.

International Football Association Board (IFAB) are reportedly advancing a rule aimed at prohibiting players from covering their mouths when addressing an opponent. If they do so, they would receive a yellow card. With this, they aim to ensure that any accusation of discrimination can be verified on video and sanctioned, according to multiple media outlets.

With this, the Brazilian emerges as a transformative figure, as he has not stayed silent in the face of discrimination and has pushed for changes within FIFA. Because of this, Vinicius may not consider early retirement as an option, since his strong mentality and resilience make him a role model in the sport. Instead, he aims to regain his best form and transform the reality for other players.

Wrexham TV schedule and streaming links

Wrexham AFC’s Hollywood-fueled rise through the English football pyramid has made them one of the most followed clubs in the United States. Now competing in the EFL Championship, the Red Dragons have moved into a new tier of visibility. For fans in America, following Wrexham in 2026 requires a shift toward CBS Sports platforms, which now serve as the primary home for the league.

Coupled with a documentary series Welcome to Wrexham, the club’s on-field success and promotion back to the English Football League in 2023 have spiked their popularity.

Wrexham AFC: At a Glance

• Manager: Phil Parkinson
• Stadium: SToK Cae Ras (The Racecourse Ground)
• Owners: Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds
• Founded: 1864

Navigating Wrexham Broadcasts in America

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As a member of the English Football League (EFL), Wrexham’s television rights are distinct from those of the Premier League.

The EFL Championship: CBS Sports & Paramount+

Starting with the 2024/25 season and continuing through 2026, CBS Sports is the exclusive rights holder for the EFL in the US.

• Paramount+: This is the primary destination for Wrexham fans. The vast majority of their Championship fixtures are streamed live here.
• CBS Sports Network: High-profile matches, such as local derbies or late-season promotion battles, are occasionally moved to the CBS Sports Network cable channel.
• Amazon Prime Video: If you prefer to keep your streaming services in one place, you can subscribe to Paramount+ as a Prime Video Channel. This allows you to watch live Wrexham league matches directly through the Amazon Prime app.
• iFollow Wrexham: While many games are on Paramount+, fans can still access certain non-televised matches via the club’s own iFollow international subscription service.

Domestic Cup Competitions

• The FA Cup: Wrexham’s storied relationship with the FA Cup continues to be broadcast exclusively on ESPN+ in the United States.
• The Carabao Cup: These knockout fixtures are part of the EFL package and are streamed via Paramount+.

The Red Dragons’ Global Journey

The 2025/26 campaign marks a historic milestone for Wrexham AFC as they test themselves in the highly competitive EFL Championship. Under the steady leadership of Phil Parkinson, the club has successfully transitioned from a National League underdog to a legitimate force in the second tier of the English game.

While the ownership of Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds brought the initial global spotlight, the club’s identity remains rooted in its community and its storied home at the SToK Cae Ras. For supporters in the US, following Wrexham is no longer just about a documentary series; it is about watching a historic Welsh club fight for a place among the elite of world football.

Alphonso Davies sent shockwaves through the soccer world on Tuesday when the Canada captain broke down in tears during Bayern Munich‘s UEFA Champions League clash against Atalanta. After images of the emotional moment went viral and concern mounted over the severity of the injury, Bayern have now provided an official update on his condition.

Bayern were dominant in Bergamo in the first leg of the Round of 16 in the UCL, taking a commanding 3-0 lead into halftime. With the result well in hand, head coach Vincent Kompany opted to make changes, introducing both Jamal Musiala and Alphonso Davies, each returning from lengthy injury absences earlier in the 2025-26 season.

In the 70th minute, Davies appeared to pull up suddenly while in possession, immediately crouching and burying his face in his hands. Just a minute later, the Canadian left back, who had managed to contribute an assist to Michael Olise in the 64th minute since coming on, was substituted off for Tom Bischof, walking off the pitch visibly distraught and struggling to contain his emotions.

Bayern Munich released a statement on Wednesday confirming that Davies had sustained a right hamstring strain, specifically a muscle tear in his right thigh. No details were provided regarding the grade of the injury or a projected recovery timeline.

Davies entered the 2025-26 season still working through the final stages of his ACL recovery, and between that and subsequent setbacks, he has already missed 26 games for Bayern this campaign. Most recently, a muscle fiber tear had kept him out of Bundesliga fixtures against Borussia Dortmund and Borussia Mönchengladbach, making Tuesday’s appearance against Atalanta his comeback game.

Suffering yet another injury in that context appeared to overwhelm the defender emotionally, and the images of him in tears resonated deeply with fans around the world.

How long will Davies be sidelined?

With Bayern yet to disclose the full severity of the injury, Davies’ recovery timeline remains to be seen in the coming weeks. That said, the fact that he was able to walk off the pitch unassisted is an encouraging sign, pointing to a less severe outcome than if he had needed to be helped or carried off.

In the best-case scenario of a Grade I hamstring strain, the British Journal of Sports Medicine puts the median recovery time for professional soccer players at 14 to 21 days. If that proves to be the case, Davies would miss the upcoming March international window with Canada but could realistically return to action for Bayern in early April.

Since the arrival of Hansi Flick, Barcelona have experienced a rebirth in their style of play, imposing high pressure and an impeccable offensive approach. For this, the Pedri and Gavi duo in midfield stood out as one of the team’s best assets, providing defensive solidity and creativity. Nevertheless, the 21-year-old star has been sidelined for several months following knee surgery, but he reportedly already has a date for his comeback to the pitch.

While Gavi suffered an ACL injury in 2023, he managed to play many games with the Blaugranas in the 2024-25 season, being a regular for coach Hansi Flick. Nevertheless, the Spaniard was still dealing with discomfort in his knee, making him underwent an arthroscopy to solve a meniscus injury at the start of the current season. After seven months of absence, the 21-year-old star reportedly now has a date for his return to the pitch.

Pablo Gavi entered Barcelona’s squad list against Newcastle United, but he had not yet received medical clearance. Despite this, the sporting department has reportedly already defined his return to the pitch. According to Fernando Polo in Mundo Deportivo, the 21-year-old star would be ready to get some minutes against Sevilla on March 15. Nevertheless, he could take some more time before becoming a starter again.

Although his possible return is a boost for the Blaugranas, Hansi Flick faces the difficult task of finding him a spot in the starting lineup. With Pedri and Frenkie de Jong or Marc Bernal fixed in the core of the play, Gavi might not have room as a starter. Nevertheless, the 21-year-old midfielder could be key in the rotation, contributing in the build-up but also in the attacking midfield, offering a different profile from Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez.

Gavi may face uphill battle to regain his starter spot under Flick

Before his injury, Gavi used to be a regular starter in the midfield alongside Frenkie de Jong, leaving Pedri in more advanced roles. Nevertheless, coach Hansi Flick has adjusted the entire midfield in his absence, giving Fermin Lopez an undisputed starting role, which has turned Pedri into a complete player, being key in the organization. Because of this, the 21-year-old star could face difficulties regaining his spot as a starter.

Being one of the players most protected by Flick, Gavi’s continuity at Barcelona is fully assured. Nevertheless, the coach might not include him as a starter in midfield, but rather as a key rotation option alongside Pedri, as it seems unlikely that he will change his current approach. In this way, the Spaniard could remain like Dani Olmo: Key in the rotation with substantial minutes, but rarely a starter, something that might not sit well with him.

There are strong reports of a significant change behind the scenes for Roma’s business model, but Francesco Totti is only asked to be a brand ambassador without powers.

Over the last few weeks, there have been growing rumours that the club icon could return to the Stadio Olimpico with a directorial role.

Roma not prepared to hand Totti powers

These were boosted when he was spotted back in the stands for some home games, something he had largely tried to avoid after his ill-tempered exit from the club in the summer of 2019.

That was under previous owners, so it was suggested the Friedkin family with help from Claudio Ranieri and coach Gian Piero Gasperini were talking to Totti about a return.

However, Sky Sport Italia now report Roma do want Totti to have a purely ceremonial role as brand ambassador, with no decision-making powers.

This was the kind of thing he had rejected in the past, but might be more amenable towards now.

Meanwhile, there are bigger changes afoot, as Calcio e Finanza claim exclusively that Roma have decided to purchase the Centro Sportivo Fulvio Bernardini training ground in Trigoria, after leasing the land for 20 years.

The structure had originally been sold for €30m in December 2005 as a way of balancing the books.

Davide Massa has been assigned to the Como vs. Roma Serie A fight for fourth place, while Gianluca Manganiello gets Inter-Atalanta, but Daniele Doveri drops to Serie B after the Derby della Madonnina.

The AIA (Italian Referees Association) has confirmed the referees chosen for this weekend’s Serie A matches.

The biggest game of the round is arguably the showdown for Champions League qualification, as Como and Roma are locked together in the table and go head-to-head at the Stadio Sinigaglia on Sunday.

That has been handed to experienced official Massa.

Leaders Inter try to get back on track against Atalanta, which will be officiated by Gianluca Manganiello in another top seven duel.

Notably, there is no Serie A fixture this weekend for Doveri after his work in the Derby della Madonnina, but this does not mean it is a demotion.

Instead, he is trusted with the extremely difficult and important Serie B promotion clash between Monza and Palermo, which could prove decisive for who gets to be in the top flight next season.

Serie A Week 29 referees

Torino vs. Parma (Maresca, VAR Ghersini)

Inter vs. Atalanta (Manganiello, VAR Gariglio)

Napoli vs. Lecce (Abisso, VAR Nasca)

Udinese vs. Juventus (Mariani, VAR Maggioni)

Verona vs. Genoa (Marchetti, VAR Marini)

Pisa vs. Cagliari (La Penna, VAR Paterna)

Sassuolo vs. Bologna (Bonacina, VAR Serra)

Como vs. Roma (Massa, VAR Fabbri)

Lazio vs. Milan (Guida, VAR Chiffi)

Cremonese vs. Fiorentina (Di Bello, VAR Aureliano)

Dusan Vlahovic completed the entire training session with his Juventus teammates and is ready for his comeback after nearly four months out.

The striker pulled up during the Serie A match against Cagliari on November 29, 2025, and it was immediately apparent this was a very serious injury.

It was diagnosed as a high-grade lesion to the muscle-tendon junction of the left adductor longus.

Vlahovic all set for Juventus return

There were fears he could be out of action for as much as five months, but it seems as if the Serbian could be on the pitch this weekend.

Vlahovic took part in the entire training session with his Juventus teammates at the Continassa camp near Turin today and is widely expected to be in the squad for the trip to Udinese.

He even scored a goal in today’s game between ranks, confirming his condition is good.

Al lavoro pic.twitter.com/3hjTWW4lm9

— JuventusFC (@juventusfc) March 11, 2026

He had scored six goals and provided two assists in his 17 competitive appearances this season before that setback.

His performances in the remaining 10 matches of the campaign could well decide whether or not he signs a new contract with Juventus, seeing as the current deal expires on June 30.

Cagliari have suffered yet another devastating anterior cruciate ligament injury, as left-back Riyad Idrissi is the latest to be ruled out for six months.

The 20-year-old, who has three caps for Italy at Under-21 level, is a product of the Sardinian youth academy and had impressed this season with two goals and an assist in 26 competitive appearances.

Idrissi only latest Cagliari casualty

He featured in the 2-1 Serie A defeat to Como over the weekend, and tests showed his injury was worse than previously thought.

A club statement confirms Idrissi has been diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.

The player will go under the knife with a specialist over the next few days, but this type of injury generally requires four to six months on the sidelines.

It is something of an epidemic at Cagliari, as this season alone they have lost Andrea Belotti, Mattia Felici and Idrissi all to ACL tears.

Roma have named their squad list for the Europa League Round of 16 against Bologna, missing big names like Matias Soulé, Paulo Dybala and Gianluca Mancini, but Mario Hermoso is included.

The first leg kicks off at the Stadio Dall’Ara on Thursday at 17.45 GMT (18.45 CET).

The Giallorossi have been dealing with a lengthy injury crisis for some time now, and many of the problems are localised in the attack.

Good and bad news for Roma

This means Dybala, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson are long-term absentees, while Soulé has again not been included, as he struggles to recover from an inflammation.

The good news for coach Gian Piero Gasperini is that defender Hermoso completed the training session and is in the squad, though it remains to be seen if he will start.

There is more pressure on the defence, as Gianluca Mancini is suspended for the first leg of this Europa League tie.

According to Sky Sport Italia, Bryan Zaragoza is tipped to start in support of Donyell Malen, while Bryan Cristante can be moved into a more advanced role too.

This leaves Manu Koné and Niccolò Pisilli in midfield, benching Lorenzo Pellegrini.

Iran has confirmed that it will not be participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The announcement comes as a direct consequence of the escalating military conflict between Iran and the United States-Israel alliance, which saw the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the opening day of strikes.

Sports minister confirms Iran will not participate in World Cup

Iran’s Sports Minister, Ahmad Donyamali, confirmed the decision on state television on Wednesday, stating that the current political and security climate makes participation impossible.

The minister emphasised that the Iranian team would not be safe in a “hostile country,” especially given the recent history of conflict. Donyamali said (via The Sun):

“Since this corrupt government assassinated our leader, we have no conditions under which we can participate in the World Cup.

“In view of the malicious measures taken against Iran, two wars were forced upon us within eight or nine months, and several thousand of our people were killed.

“Therefore, we definitely have no possibility of participating in this way.”

The decision follows reports that the U.S. and Israel launched “Operation Epic Fury” on February 28, 2026.

While FIFA President Gianni Infantino recently stated that President Donald Trump had offered assurances that the Iranian team would be welcome, Tehran has officially rejected the offer.

Iran accuse Australia of taking Women players hostage

This comes after Iran leveled serious allegations against Australia regarding members of the Iranian women’s national football team.

Esmail Baghaei Hamaneh, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, accused Australian authorities of taking athletes “hostage” under the guise of offering asylum.

The claims follow reports that five members of the women’s squad sought humanitarian visas in Australia after refusing to sing the national anthem during a tournament on the Gold Coast.

Hamaneh lashed out on social media, referencing a Tomahawk attack on a school in Minab that reportedly killed 165 schoolgirls.

“They slaughtered more than 165 innocent Iranian schoolgirls… and now they want to take our athletes hostage in the name of ‘saving’ them?” Hamaneh wrote (via New York Post).

“The audacity and hypocrisy are staggering. To Iran’s Women’s football team: don’t worry — Iran awaits you with open arms. Come home.”

The post Major World Cup shake-up expected after Iran withdraw from tournament amid war and hostage claims appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a move for the French goalkeeper, Lucas Chevalier. 

The 24-year-old has done quite well in France, but the move to PSG has not gone as planned. He has struggled for regular playing time this season, and a report from MediaFoot claims the player could be open to a move.

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Tottenham have made enquiries for the French goalkeeper, and he could prove to be an excellent acquisition for them. It is no secret that they need more quality in that area of the pitch.

Guglielmo Vicario has been error-prone, and Antonin Kinsky had a horror show on his Champions League debut for Spurs last night.

Tottenham need an upgrade in that area of the pitch, and the French goalkeeper could be ideal for them. He is highly rated in France, and he has a bright future. Even though he has struggled for regular opportunities in recent weeks, his talent is beyond doubt. He will be hungry to prove his quality at the highest level, and his desire to succeed will be upon us for Tottenham. It will be interesting to see if they follow up on their enquiry with an official offer to get the deal done.

PSG manager Luis Enrique has previously labelled him as a “top-class” keeper. He is still quite young, and he could improve with coaching and experience. He has all the attributes to develop into a top-class player for club and country. It will be interesting to see if PSG is willing to sanction his departure in the summer. Tottenham might have to submit an attractive offer in order to get the deal done.

The opportunity to move to England could be exciting for him, especially if Tottenham is prepared to provide him with regular opportunities.

The post Tottenham make enquiry for “top-class” Frenchman to improve problem area appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal are currently fighting for the league title and are at the top of the Premier League table. 

They are currently favourites to win the league this season, but their style of play has left former Chelsea star John Obi Mikel frustrated.

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The former Chelsea midfielder revealed to talkSPORT that Arsenal have been overly dependent on set pieces to win matches. He added that they have spent nearly £1 billion on improving the team, but they have not been able to win games in style.

He also added that Arsenal are cheating their way to the title. His claims will not go down well with the Arsenal fans, and it will only add to the bitterness between the two clubs and their respective sets of fans.

Mikel said: “When I watch Arsenal play right now, they depend solely, solely on corner kicks. You have spent almost a billion, Mikel Arteta, almost a billion. And you’re telling me the only way you can win games is through corner kicks? It’s ridiculous.​

On recognising them as champions, he added: “Not if they go on and win the way they’re playing right now. No, I wouldn’t, because for me it’s cheating; they’ve cheated their way to winning the Premier League. So I wouldn’t recognise them as winners because, for me, it’s illegal the way they’re winning games. It’s illegal.”

There is no doubt that Arsenal have a quality team, but their style of play has often been branded as negative. For a team packed with several top-quality players, perhaps fans and neutrals would have expected a more adventurous style of football.

That said, Arsenal have not won a major trophy for over two decades. They will be desperate to win the Premier League title, regardless of their style of play. Mikel Arteta has been under a lot of pressure after the kind of backing he has received in the transfer market.

He will be hoping to deliver a major trophy this season, and winning the Premier League title would be a huge relief for him. The Spanish manager is unlikely to care what others have to say about his style of football, especially if he manages to deliver the league title.

The post Chelsea icon tears into Arteta tactics, slams Arsenal for ‘cheating’ their way to the title appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Lamine Yamal scored a penalty with the last kick of the game to snatch Barcelona a 1-1 draw with Newcastle United in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie. Harvey Barnes thought he had gifted Newcastle a slender advantage to take to Camp Nou next week, but Malick Thiaw gifted Barcelona a […]

The post Newcastle United 1-1 Barcelona: Yamal salvages draw with last kick of the game appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Newcastle United 1-1 Barcelona: Yamal salvages draw with last kick of the game appeared first on Soccer News.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus have initiated talks with Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva over the possibility of the Portuguese attacking midfielder joining them as a free agent when his contract expires at the end of this season. However, the Serie A giants face serious competition from Galatasaray and Inter Miami for the services of […]

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Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk insisted that his team must earn the right to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League after losing to Galatasaray in their first-leg clash. Mario Lemina’s seventh-minute header was the difference at RAMS Park as Arne Slot’s side endured another frustrating performance in front of goal on Tuesday. The Reds […]

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According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus have initiated talks with Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva over the possibility of the Portuguese attacking midfielder joining them as a free agent when his contract expires at the end of this season. However, the Serie A giants face serious competition from Galatasaray and Inter Miami for the services of […]

The post Juventus to compete with Galatasaray and Inter Miami for Bernardo Silva appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Juventus to compete with Galatasaray and Inter Miami for Bernardo Silva appeared first on Soccer News.

With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, a dramatic development has suddenly placed one qualified nation’s participation under serious question. The uncertainty intensified after a senior government official declared that his country could refuse to take part in the tournament entirely, creating a potential headache for soccer’s governing body and the tournament’s organizers.

The expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is scheduled to begin on June 11 and will feature 48 national teams, the largest edition in the competition’s history. Yet a geopolitical crisis unfolding in the Middle East has cast a shadow over one national team’s involvement, despite the country having already secured qualification months ago.

The situation escalated after the nation’s sports minister publicly ruled out participation, arguing that the current political and security conditions make it impossible for the national side to compete on the global stage. The remarks mark the first official government statement directly addressing the team’s presence at the World Cup since the conflict intensified. Iran, whose national soccer team had comfortably qualified for the tournament, now faces a highly uncertain future regarding its participation.

The controversy erupted after Ahmad Donyamali, the country’s sports minister, addressed the issue in an interview on state television. His comments suggested that the national team could boycott the tournament entirely due to the escalating conflict involving Western powers. Speaking to state television, Donyamali said: “Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup.”

The minister’s statement referred to the recent military conflict involving the United States and Israel, which Iranian authorities say led to the death of the country’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and triggered retaliatory strikes across the region. The remarks represent the clearest indication yet that Iran could withdraw from the tournament, a scenario that would be unprecedented in modern World Cup history.

What does FIFA think about it?

Despite the growing uncertainty, FIFA has continued to emphasize its intention to include every qualified nation in the tournament. FIFA president Gianni Infantino recently met with Donald Trump at the White House to discuss preparations for the global event. Following the meeting, Infantino posted a message on social media indicating that the United States government had reaffirmed its openness to welcoming the Iranian team.

Infantino wrote: “During the discussions, President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States.” He also emphasized the broader significance of the competition, adding: “We all need an event like the FIFA World Cup to bring people together now more than ever.” However, while the governing body remains committed to the team’s inclusion, the ultimate decision may depend on the political leadership of Iran itself.

Group-stage schedule already set

Before the controversy emerged, Iran had already been drawn into Group G for the tournament. The national team is scheduled to face Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand during the group stage.

All three matches were planned to take place in the United States, including games in Los Angeles and Seattle. The team had even selected a training base at the Kino Sports Complex in Arizona, with preparations already underway before the latest political developments placed those plans in jeopardy.

A massive European night awaits at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, where Real Madrid hosts Manchester City in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash. Yet one of the biggest talking points ahead of kickoff revolves around the absence of Kylian Mbappe, whose unexpected omission has raised serious questions about Madrid’s chances in one of the most anticipated ties of the tournament.

The French superstar, who has been a central figure for the Spanish giant throughout the campaign, will not take the field for the showdown. His absence adds another layer of intrigue to a rivalry that has become one of the defining matchups of modern Champions League soccer. While the clash between the two clubs already carries enormous stakes, the situation surrounding Mbappe’s availability has created additional uncertainty.

Encounters between Real Madrid and Manchester City have become increasingly common in recent seasons. The two clubs have developed a fierce rivalry in Europe, frequently meeting in decisive knockout ties.

The matchup at the Bernabeu marks their 16th meeting in the Champions League, with the record remarkably balanced. Both clubs have won five matches each, while five encounters ended in draws, highlighting just how evenly matched the rivalry has been. Including this latest meeting, the fixture is now the third most-played matchup in the history of the competition.

The most recent encounter between the clubs came earlier in the season during the league phase. The Citizens managed to secure a 2-1 victory in the Spanish capital, thanks to goals from Nico O’Reilly and Erling Haaland, overturning an earlier strike from Rodrygo. That result strengthened City’s position in the standings and reinforced the perception that the English club has grown increasingly comfortable playing at the Bernabeu.

The real reason Mbappe is missing

As anticipation built ahead of the knockout clash, fans began to notice that Mbappe was absent from training and unlikely to be included in the squad. In fact, the French forward is currently recovering from a knee injury that has forced him to miss several matches in recent weeks.

The problem stems from a sprain in his left knee, which has troubled the 27-year-old since late 2025. Although the injury is not considered severe enough to require surgery, Madrid’s medical staff and coaching team decided it was best for him to continue his recovery rather than risk aggravating the issue.

According to a statement released by representatives of the player: “In agreement with the club, he is undergoing further tests on his knee with the aim of optimising his follow-up care and preparing for his comeback.” The statement added: “No surgical intervention is being planned at the moment.” The decision highlights the club’s cautious approach, especially considering how important Mbappe remains for the remainder of the season.

Arbeloa explains the decision

Real Madrid head coach Álvaro Arbeloa confirmed that the decision to rest Mbappe was made collectively by the medical staff and coaching team. Speaking ahead of the match, Arbeloa said: “It was a bit of a consensus between everyone, and we think the best thing is that he stops, that he recovers and comes back at 100%.”

The manager also hinted that the recovery could take some time: “It’s not going to be a question of days; it will be a bit longer, but I can’t say how long. Hopefully not too long.” Despite the setback, the Spanish manager offered a positive update regarding the player’s progress: “He’s better. Obviously, we have to take it one day at a time and see how he is evolving,” the coach explained.

Lionel Messi is still making history at 38 years old, remaining a cornerstone and captain for both Inter Miami and the Argentina national team. With the 2026 Major League Soccer season now underway, fans are wondering when they’ll see the forward back in action.

Lionel Messi’s next match is scheduled for Wednesday, March 11, when Inter Miami will be visiting Nashville SC at Geodis Park for the first leg of the Round of 16 in the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup. Messi heads into the fixture in fine form after finding the back of the net in the 2-1 away win over D.C. United in Matchday 3 of the MLS.

As for international duty with Argentina national team, Lionel Messi is set to return to action during the March international window. La Albiceleste will face Spain national team in the Finalissima on Friday the 27th, followed by a friendly against Qatar national team on Tuesday the 31st.

The 2026 MLS campaign has only just begun for Messi, who has featured in three official matches so far, scoring thrice without registering an assist. The opener came against LAFC, who handed Inter Miami a 3-0 defeat in front of a packed crowd at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Lionel Messi and the task of defending the World Cup title

The year 2026 will be especially significant for Messi, not only because of Inter Miami’s ambitions but also because he’ll head into the 2026 World Cup aiming to defend the title. The triumph in Qatar in 2022 marked one of the defining peaks of his career, and now in North America he’ll enter another tournament wearing the champions’ badge for the first time.

Drawn into Group J, Argentina will open its campaign against Algeria on Tuesday, June 16, in Kansas City at Arrowhead Stadium. The second match will be against Austria on Monday the 22nd in Arlington at AT&T Stadium, before closing the group stage against Jordan on Saturday the 27th, also in Texas.

The Argentina FA has announced that the national team will base itself in Kansas City during the tournament, though training facilities have yet to be confirmed. Expected to be his final World Cup appearance, Messi will have a chance to add to his record haul with a squad coached by Lionel Scaloni that remains one of the strongest in international soccer after winning the last World Cup and back-to-back Copa América titles.

Julián Álvarez was pointed out as the cornerstone of Atlético Madrid, as they decided to pay €75 million to Manchester City. Although he shined in his debut season by scoring 29 goals, he is not having his best campaign, no longer being an undisputed player for coach Diego Simeone. Because of this, the Argentine has been surrounded by rumors about a move to Barcelona or Arsenal, deciding to break the silence with some surprising statements.

After scoring a brace against Tottenham, Julián Álvarez faced questions about his future with Los Colchoneros next season. He responded, “Maybe yes, maybe no, you never know. I’m very happy here. It’s a question that keeps coming up, but I’m happy. I’m focused on the day-to-day, working to improve and give my all. I never said anything bad about the club. I’m very grateful. The people showed me their affection, and I’m very happy.”

During the 2025-26 season, the Argentinean has been a well-known target for Barcelona and Arsenal. For that reason, Julián’s statements are not well-received among Los Colchoneros, while coach Diego Simeone and sporting director Mateu Alemany consider him a cornerstone. If the Gunners or the Blaugranas decide to chase him, they will need to pay around €150 million, as per Diario Sport.

Julián Álvarez may not have expressed a desire to leave Atletico Madrid, but his words left the door open to that possibility. Because of this, fans have expressed considerable frustration, as not only is he performing below expectations, but the rumors of his departure continue to grow. Nevertheless, coach Simeone keeps him as a regular in the rotation, as he already has 16 goals and stands as the team’s top scorer alongside Alexander Sorloth.

Presidential candidate Laporta could push Julián away from Barcelona

Throughout the entire 2025-26 season, Julián Álvarez has reportedly been a priority target for Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco. Despite this, the Argentine is under contract with Atletico Madrid until 2030, making his departure considered quite complex. Although Barcelona seemed to keep him as a clear objective, the words of former president and candidate Joan Laporta could move his arrival away for next season.

“He’s a great player, and they say he’d fit into Barça’s system. He’s not a player worth breaking the bank for. First, he’d have to show his willingness to come, and it would have to be at a renewable price,” Joan Laporta said, via SER Catalunya. While he leaves the door open for a move, his comment on Álvarez not being worth breaking the bank for might distance Julián from joining Barcelona, as it could be perceived as a slight.

Taking advantage of these words, the Gunners could gain a foothold, as Atletico Madrid might be more open to negotiating with them, unlike with the Blaugranas, who are a direct rival in LaLiga. Because of this, Julián Álvarez could regain his prominence and become a key player for a team that truly considers him capable of leading a project or spearheading an attack.

Tottenham TV schedule and streaming links

Following Tottenham Hotspur from the United States has never been more vital for supporters as the club navigates a season of significant transition. Now competing in the UEFA Champions League following their continental success last spring, Spurs are a fixture of mid-week and weekend television. World Soccer Talk’s Tottenham TV Schedule provides the current broadcasting landscape to ensure you never miss a minute of the action from North London.

Tottenham Hotspur: At a Glance

• Manager: Igor Tudor
• Stadium: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
• Major Honors: 2 League Titles, 8 FA Cups, 2024/25 UEFA Europa League Champions
• Current Pillars: Cristian Romero, Mohammed Kudus, Xavi Simons

How to Watch Tottenham in the United States

To see every Spurs match in the 2025/26 season, fans must navigate a combination of traditional networks and primary streaming platforms.

Premier League: NBC Sports & Peacock

The Premier League remains the core of the Spurs schedule, with NBC Universal holding the exclusive US rights.

• National TV: Marquee matchups for Tottenham are typically broadcast on USA Network or the main NBC channel. These can be streamed through live services like Sling Blue, Hulu + Live TV, and DirecTV Stream.
• Peacock Exclusive: Many of Tottenham’s league fixtures—particularly early Saturday kickoffs—are found only on Peacock Premium.
• Spanish Language: Look to Telemundo or Universo for high-quality Spanish broadcasts.

UEFA Champions League: Paramount+

Following their 2025 Europa League title win, Spurs have returned to the Champions League.

• Paramount+: This is the exclusive English-language home for every UCL fixture.
• ViX: Provides the corresponding Spanish-language streaming coverage for European nights.

Domestic Cup Ties: FA Cup & Carabao Cup

• The FA Cup: All rounds of the FA Cup are broadcast exclusively on ESPN+.
• The Carabao Cup: These fixtures generally air on Paramount+, which serves as the US home for the English Football League’s cup competition.

The Identity of the Modern Spurs

Tottenham Hotspur has entered a new chapter defined by a blend of proven international stars and a commitment to elite young talent. Under the lights of their world-class stadium, the club continues to chase the “Glory, Glory” tradition that has defined its history. Having re-established themselves as a force in Europe, the focus now remains on finding domestic consistency during a transitional season.

The current identity of the squad is anchored by the leadership of captain Cristian Romero. With the summer 2025 arrivals of Mohammed Kudus and Xavi Simons, the Spurs attack has taken on a new, explosive dimension. The club is building toward a future that honors its heritage of attacking, entertaining football while competing against the elite of the global game.

Vincenzo Italiano admits he would gladly have avoided the all-Italian Europa League duel with Roma, but Bologna ‘hope to tease some weaknesses out of them tomorrow.’

It kicks off on Thursday at 17.45 GMT (18.45 CET) at the Stadio Dall’Ara.

The draw was unkind to the Italian teams, as while it means at least there will be one representative in the quarter-finals, it can only be one of the two sides who entered the tournament.

Bologna had a terrible start to 2026 and seemingly had turned a corner with a run of victories, but faltered again at the weekend with their home defeat to rock bottom Hellas Verona.

Italiano would have avoided Bologna vs. Roma

“We have already put that match behind us,” assured Italiano in his press conference.

“Roma have some weaknesses and we hope to tease those out of them tomorrow. As I said before, I had hoped in a different draw, because we could’ve gone far together in this competition, but instead one of the two Italians must go out.

“We are stuttering in our home games lately, but hope to change that tomorrow.”

The coach gave injury updates, as Juan Miranda and Torbjorn Heggem are back in training, but it remains to be seen if either of them could start.

He did hint that Tommaso Pobega has “a very good chance” of being in the starting XI, though Thijs Dallinga could finally give Santiago Castro some rest ahead of the Serie A showdown with Sassuolo.

“Roma defend well and have now found a striker in Donyell Malen who is doing very well, giving their aggressive style of football an outlet. We know him too, as we already played against his Aston Villa earlier in the season.

“Gian Piero Gasperini has set the example for all coaches, winning important trophies both at team and individual level. He continues to exhibit wonderful football and I have incredible respect for him.”

Will the two coaches go out to dinner together?

“We’d need a restaurant that stayed open late, because we’d have so much to talk about!”

The second leg will be at the Stadio Olimpico next week, where the Rossoblu lost 1-0 in the opening game of the Serie A season back in August.

“I am not thinking about the second leg, because after tomorrow we already have another Serie A match to play, so there’s time for that. Obviously, it won’t be an easy atmosphere for us at the Olimpico, but we know that.

“The trouble with an Italian derby is we know each other so very well. It’s a new experience for me too, facing another Italian side in Europe.”

Bologna’s home record has been the most surprising aspect of their campaign so far, as since the start of December 2025 they have amassed just three victories at the Stadio Dall’Ara, two draws and eight losses in all competition.

“I analysed all those games, and some we deserved to lose, with others we could’ve won with a bit more concentration. The attitude is not the issue, but we are paying a heavy price for some distractions, and have the time to make up for it,” noted Italiano.

“We did win five games after that difficult period, and a situation like Verona can happen, in Serie A anybody can beat anyone else, it’s always a struggle. We have more difficulty against teams who let us take control of the game, leading us to become a bit too superficial in our preventative marking.

“Tomorrow is a big opportunity for us to progress in Europe, but we won’t be able to judge the season until the end.”

Igor Tudor’s handling of Guglielmo Vicario during Tottenham’s 5-2 defeat to Atletico Madrid has given Inter a significant boost, with the Nerazzurri keen on signing the Italian goalkeeper next summer.

Tudor dropped Vicario for Antonín Kinský in a Champions League match against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, but the 22-year-old’s early mistakes led to Vicario’s introduction after just 17 minutes. 

Inter already opened Vicario talks

According to various sources, Inter have already opened talks with Vicario’s entourage, having identified the ex-Empoli and Cagliari goalkeeper as their main target in goal for 2026-27.

Previous reports claimed that Inter directors would hold further talks with the goalkeeper’s representatives this month.

Vicario is eager to return to Italy in the summer, and Tudor’s management against Atletico Madrid seems to have only reinforced his desire.

According to Gazzetta, in fact, Vicario expected to start the match at the Wanda Metropolitano, believing his status within the team would be respected.

The Pink Paper adds that Juventus and Monaco are also closely following Vicario, and that Inter’s second option to replace Yann Sommer is Real Madrid’s Andriy Lunin.

Tottenham’s asking price for Vicario is reportedly around €20m, but if Spurs are relegated from the Premier League, then the goalkeeper’s price would be further reduced.

Tottenham are just one point above the relegation zone in the Premier League, and their new coach, Igor Tudor, has lost all his first four games in charge.

Napoli are prepared to make Rasmus Hojlund’s move from Manchester United permanent for €44m as the Red Devils are reportedly unwilling to reduce the striker’s transfer fee.

Napoli are destined to sign Hojlund on a permanent transfer from Manchester United for €44m, reports TMW.

Hojlund set for 44m Napoli transfer

The Denmark international joined the Partenopei on an initial loan deal with an obligation to buy last summer.

The obligation to purchase is tied to Napoli’s Champions League qualification this season, but it seems like a fairly feasible target as the defending Serie A champions currently sit third in the standings with a five-point lead over fifth-placed Roma.

According to the report, Napoli will try to lower Manchester United’s demands, but the Red Devils are unwilling to give any discount, especially because the Azzurri seem close to securing Champions League qualification.

Hojlund has scored 13 goals and provided four assists in 35 appearances across all competitions this season.

Fiorentina coach Paolo Vanoli says the club’s medical staff is assessing Moise Kean ‘day by day’ and hopes the Italian striker will be available for the next crucial Serie A match against Cremonese.

Fiorentina star Kean will miss tomorrow’s Conference League Round of 16 first leg game against Rakow, Vanoli confirmed at a press conference on Wednesday.

Kean to miss Fiorentina vs. Rakow

“We are continuing with a recovery process and evaluating him day by day. The target is to have him in Cremona,” the Viola coach said via TMW.

Kean has sustained a fibula injury, and Fiorentina hope he’ll be back for the next Serie A match away at Cremonese. It’s a crucial fixture for the Tuscans, who are just one point above the Grigiorossi in the relegation zone.

Gudmundsson is expected to be available tomorrow but is not in his best shape.

“Right now, he must regain full fitness after an ankle problem. He misses being decisive, but he still does important things,” Vanoli said.

“I like him more in his new role than as a support striker. He must only find that spark; we know he can be decisive in the final games.

“We are focused on this game. The Conference League is an important trophy that we want to honour and go as far as possible. We find a team that did very well in the league phase. They defend well and have only conceded two goals. We must think that we’ll play across two games, so we have to be smart. We’ll think about Cremonese on Friday.”

According to Tuttosport, Everton and West Ham have recently scouted Torino midfielder Cesare Casadei.

Ex-Chelsea and Inter midfielder Casadei has attracted interest from Everton and West Ham, according to Tuttosport.

Everton and West Ham interested in Casadei

The two Premier League clubs will be looking for midfield reinforcement in the summer, although the Hammers must first secure Premier League survival.

The Italian midfielder, 23, has scored five goals in 28 appearances across all competitions this season.

He joined Torino in January 2025 on a permanent €13m deal from Chelsea.

During his time in England, he had played for Chelsea, Leicester City and Reading FC, collecting 11 Premier League appearances.

A product of the Inter Academy, Casadei is Torino’s best scorer since January with one goal in Coppa Italia and four in Serie A despite not being a regular starter.

No other Torino player has scored more goals since the start of the year.

Casadei’s contract with Torino expires in June 2029.

He has yet to make his senior Italy debut, but scored four goals in 16 appearances with Italy U21.

Liverpool are plotting a summer move for Takefusa Kubo from Real Sociedad. 

The 24-year-old Japanese international has done well in Spain, and he could prove to be a useful acquisition for Liverpool. Mohamed Salah has not been at his best this season, and the Egyptian has been linked with an exit. Liverpool will need to replace him properly, and they have identified the La Liga attacker as an option.

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According to reports from Spain, they would be prepared to pay €80 million in order to get the deal done. The reported offer would be hard for the Spanish club to turn down, and they are likely to sanction his departure if the offer is presented in the summer.

Convincing the player to join Liverpool will not be difficult either. It would be a huge opportunity in his career, and he will look to join the Premier League champions if the opportunity presents itself.

The 24-year-old can operate on the right flank, and he will add goals and creativity to the team. He has recorded five goal contributions in all competitions this season. Joining a top-quality team like Liverpool could bring out the best in him. Kubo has been backed to become a “superstar” in future.

Liverpool needs more quality on the flanks, and ideally, they should look to invest in a left-sided attacker as well. It will be interesting to see if they can bring in two quality wingers in the summer. They have also been linked to Yan Diomande.

The 24-year-old Japanese international has the technical attributes to succeed in English football, and he will look to make his mark in the Premier League if the move goes through.

The post Liverpool ready to splash £69m on La Liga ace backed to become a “superstar” appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Tottenham captain Cristian Romero has “serious chances” to leave the club this summer, following a nightmare season that has left the North London side fighting for Premier League survival.

Despite signing a new four-year contract extension just last August, the 27-year-old’s future at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is now shrouded in uncertainty.

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Taking to X, Romano revealed: “Cuti Romero has serious chances to leave Tottenham in the summer. Top clubs have started to call as exit is a possibility despite new deal signed last summer. Romero could be open to a sale, as Telegraph and TyC Sports reported.”

??? Cuti Romero has serious chances to leave Tottenham in the summer.

Top clubs have started to call as exit is a possibility despite new deal signed last summer.

Romero could be open to a sale, as Telegraph and TyC Sports reported.

?? https://t.co/Q4fcYNPTBg pic.twitter.com/pZlRd2h749

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 11, 2026

Cristian Romero could leave Tottenham

The World Cup winner is reportedly frustrated with the club’s lack of ambition and the chaotic managerial changes that have seen Igor Tudor struggle to stabilise a squad left in disarray by Thomas Frank.

Romero’s relationship with the club hierarchy has reportedly hit a breaking point, particularly after he publicly criticised the board earlier this season.

Several European heavyweights have already registered interest. Atletico Madrid remain long-term admirers, with Diego Simeone reportedly viewing Romero as the ideal leader for his defense.

Real Madrid and Manchester United are also said to be monitoring the situation closely, especially with the Argentine potentially available for a fee in the region of £60 million.

Tottenham also open to selling Romero as part of squad rebuild

While the ‘world-class‘ Romero’s departure would be a massive blow to the fans, the Spurs hierarchy appears increasingly resigned to a parting of ways.

It has been reported that the club is planning a ruthless summer overhaul, with Romero identified as one of the primary high-value assets to be cashed in on to fund a rebuild.

Chief executive Vinai Venkatesham has previously hinted that the club must balance the books to comply with financial regulations, and selling an unsettled captain for significant money is ‘best for all paries’.

With Spurs currently sit 16th in the table, the prospect of a summer firesale is becoming more likely as the club prepares for a total reset.

The post “Serious chances to leave” – Romano makes worrying claim about ‘world-class’ Tottenham star after nightmare season appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham correspondent Alasdair Gold has confirmed that Igor Tudor will lead the pre-match press conference on Friday, signaling that the interim manager will remain in the dugout for the crucial trip to Anfield.

The news comes in the wake of a humiliating 5-2 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, a result that has left fans and pundits questioning if Tudor is the right man to prevent a historic relegation.

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Taking to X, Gold broke the news of the club’s decision: “Spurs have confirmed that Igor Tudor is scheduled to take his press conference on Friday afternoon at 1.30pm ahead of the Liverpool match.”

Igor Tudor expected to remain in charge for the Liverpool game

Despite the outcry following the disaster in Madrid, the Tottenham hierarchy appears to be sticking with Tudor for at least one more game.

The 47-year-old’s brief tenure has been nothing short of a nightmare; since replacing Thomas Frank 25 days ago, he has lost all four of his matches in charge, conceding a staggering 14 goals in the process.

The defeat at the Metropolitano was particularly bruising. Tudor made the controversial decision to drop first-choice goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario for Antonin Kinsky, only to haul the 22-year-old off after just 17 minutes following two massive errors.

While Tudor claimed the move was made to protect the young keeper, the tactical chaos has reportedly left players unconvinced by his leadership.

Spurs could still sack Tudor amid serious relegation threat

While he will face the media on Friday, Tudor’s position remains incredibly insecure.

Tottenham currently sit in 16th place, just one point above the relegation zone. With rivals like Nottingham Forest and Wolves beginning to pick up points, the once-unthinkable prospect of Championship football for the first time since 1977 is now a grim reality.

Igor Tudor is winless since taking interim role at Tottenham

The board, led by executive Vinai Venkatesham, is reportedly under immense pressure to act before the upcoming international break.

If Spurs suffer another heavy defeat against a top-four chasing Liverpool side, the club may have no choice but to pull the trigger on their second manager of the year.

Recently sacked Sean Dyche and former Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi remain the top names on a survival shortlist should Tudor be dismissed.

The post “Spurs have confirmed” – Tottenham make big Igor Tudor decision after humiliating defeat against Atletico Madrid appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Suffering last-gasp Champions League heartbreak at St. James’ Park on Tuesday night as they eventually had to settle for a 1-1 stalemate on Tyneside, Newcastle know that they have an almighty battle on their hands when they travel to Catalonia next week. Watching their FA Cup adventure come to an end last weekend as they […]

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Suffering last-gasp Champions League heartbreak at St. James’ Park on Tuesday night as they eventually had to settle for a 1-1 stalemate on Tyneside, Newcastle know that they have an almighty battle on their hands when they travel to Catalonia next week. Watching their FA Cup adventure come to an end last weekend as they […]

The post European giants are waiting to rip the heart out of Newcastle’s midfield this summer appeared first on Soccer News.

The post European giants are waiting to rip the heart out of Newcastle’s midfield this summer appeared first on Soccer News.

Match Overview

A marquee Round of 16 clash arrives early in the bracket as two of the tournament’s top contenders square off, with Real Madrid meeting Manchester City in a matchup that feels worthy of a final. Madrid punched their ticket after a fiercely contested and controversial knockout battle with Benfica.

Now Vinicius Jr. leads a star-studded squad aiming to keep its championship run alive. Standing across the pitch is a City side loaded with elite talent and riding strong form, making this heavyweight showdown one of the most anticipated series of the Round of 16.

2. Choose between the ‘Paramount+ Essential’ or ‘Paramount+ With Showtime’ options. If you want to save over 15% with an annual plan, click the Annual option. Then hit ‘Continue’ to move on.

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Match Overview

After stunning Inter Milan with wins in both legs of the knockout stage playoffs, Bodø/Glimt now aim to keep their Cinderella run alive when they meet Sporting CP in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League.

Sporting also exceeded expectations earlier in the competition, securing direct passage to the knockout rounds during the league stage despite entering as underdogs. With both teams riding the momentum of surprising results, this matchup has all the makings of an entertaining clash!

Real Madrid face Manchester City in a promising competitive series in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16. Nonetheless, coach Álvaro Arbeloa encounters a significant challenge, as he will be without key players like Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham. In contrast, coach Pep Guardiola has his full roster available. Given these circumstances, fans are closely monitoring Vinicius Jr.’s status, as he stands out as the team’s greatest hope.

After training normally with the group, Vinicius Jr. will start, leading Real Madrid‘s offense. In Mbappé’s absence, the Brazilian emerges as the solution to the team’s lack of goals. With this, the 26-year-old star has a great opportunity to reverse his low impact in the competition, as he has only scored three goals, compared to the Frenchman’s 13. However, he has already proven himself capable of leading the team.

Alongside the Brazilian, Álvaro Arbeloa will opt for Brahim Diaz as his key partner, considering his experience in big games and his standout performance in the African Cup of Nations. However, the coach will rely on Ferland Mendy at left back due to Álvaro Carreras’s recent injury. While the French defender brings extensive experience, he has only logged 202 minutes this season, raising concerns among fans.

Unlike Real Madrid, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City arrive with their entire roster available, having Erling Haaland back after missing the previous game. Alongside the Norwegian, Antoine Semenyo will play a crucial role, opening spaces in the defense of coach Arbeloa. Given the numerous absences of Los Blancos, the Citizens could make the difference, as they come into the match with eleven consecutive games without a defeat.

Real Madrid lineup vs. Manchester City

Unlike the previous encounters against Manchester City, Real Madrid arrive at the Champions League Round of 16 with seven important absences: Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, Álvaro Carreras, Rodrygo, Dani Ceballos, Eder Militao and David Alaba. Because of this, coach Álvaro Arbeloa will be forced to make tough changes in the lineup, relying on a system similar to the one used in the series against Benfica, but with Vinicius Jr. leading the attack.

With this in mind, Real Madrid will lineup as follows: Thibaut Courtois; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Antonio Rudiger, Ferland Mendy; Federico Valverde, Arda Guler, Aurelien Tchouameni, Thiago Pitarch; Vinicius Jr, Brahim Diaz.

Manchester City lineup vs. Real Madrid

Following a convincing victory against Newcastle United, Manchester City arrive in great form to face Real Madrid. Nevertheless, coach Pep Guardiola will have three absences: Josko Gvardiol, Rico Lewis and Mateo Kovacic. Despite this, the Citizens have managed to establish key consistency, with Rodri Hernandez close to his best level and Bernardo Silva playing a crucial role, while Erling Haaland keeps dominating in the scoring side.

Considering this, Manchester City will play as follows: Gianluigi Donnarumma; Abdukodir Khusanov, Ruben Dias, Marc Guehi, Nico O’Reilly; Rodri, Bernardo Silva; Savinho, Jeremy Doku; Antoine Semenyo, Erling Haaland.

Match Overview

All signs point to a highly competitive showdown as Arsenal enter the knockout stage of the UEFA Champions League as one of the tournament’s hottest teams. The Gunners dominated the group phase with a perfect record, securing a direct spot in the Round of 16 and reinforcing their status as a serious contender for the title.

Standing in their way are Bayer Leverkusen, who battled past Olympiacos in a tightly contested series to keep their campaign alive. While Arsenal enter as the clear favorite based on form and depth, Leverkusen know the pressure is off and will aim to shock one of Europe’s top sides in what promises to be a must-watch clash.

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Yunus Musah says Atalanta players are ‘grateful’ for the support they received last night despite a 6-1 home loss against Bayern Munich.

Atalanta, the only Serie A side remaining in the Champions League Round of 16, are practically out of the competition already having suffered a 6-1 home defeat to Bayern Munich on Tuesday.

Musah reacts to Atalanta 1-6 Bayern Munich

Despite the heavy result and despite Bayern scoring three goals in the opening 25 minutes, the home crowd never stopped supporting the players and continued chanting for the team after the final whistle.

“It’s like this every week. They are very good supporters and fans. Always behind the team,” Musah told CBS Sports.

“You can really feel like ‘this is Bergamo.’ The whole of Bergamo comes to support us in the stadium, every game. The fans are amazing here. We are really grateful for the support they showed us today. This is what they are like every week. We really appreciate our supporters.

“It’s always special to take part in these Champions League games,” the USMNT international continued.

“We had a lot of hope before the game, but unfortunately, Bayern have so much quality, and the game escaped us from the beginning to the end.”

Watch the full interview below.

“The whole of Bergamo comes to support us… We’re really grateful.”

Yunus Musah on the special support Atalanta receive their fans pic.twitter.com/6xwoc1ycbu

— CBS Sports Golazo (@CBSSportsGolazo) March 11, 2026

Igor Tudor’s most recent win as a coach came on September 13, 2025, when Juventus beat Inter 4-3, and the Croatian tactician has now suffered seven consecutive losses across his spells with the Old Lady and Tottenham.

• Read more – Di Canio: Tudor might ‘pay’ for Vicario-Kinský decision, hints at new Tottenham coach

Safe to say, Tudor has not had a brilliant start to his Tottenham career, having lost all of his opening four games in charge.

Tudor’s depressing results for Juventus and Tottenham

The Croatian tactician was appointed on February 14, barely three months after he departed from Juventus.

The Bianconeri sacked Tudor at the end of October 2025, following three consecutive defeats across all competitions.

The Bianconeri had lost 2-0 to Como, 1-0 to Real Madrid in the Champions League, and 1-0 to Lazio. They had not scored a goal in their last four matches under the 47-year-old and had not won since September 13, when they beat Inter 4-3 at the Allianz Stadium.

To date, that also remains Tudor’s last win as a coach.

Juventus replaced Tudor with Luciano Spalletti, and even though the Bianconeri are still out of the top four in Serie A, they have grabbed 15 wins in 28 matches under the Italian tactician and are just one point below a Champions League spot.

When Rafael Leão joined Milan in the summer of 2019, he arrived as a talented yet inconsistent forward. He had shown flashes of pace and technical ability in France, but he had not built a complete profile.

Over the following seasons, he changed his role, sharpened his decision-making, and increased his influence on matches. His development did not follow a straight line. He struggled at times, responded to criticism, and grew into a central figure for the team.

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This article examines how Leão evolved tactically, improved his numbers, and adjusted his mentality. It focuses on facts and match data rather than praise or comparison. It also addresses how he handles responsibility in a club that demands results every season.

Early period: raw pace and direct play

Leão entered Serie A as a 20-year-old forward with explosive speed and strong ball control. During his first season in Italy, he alternated between the wing and a central role. Coaches used him as a second striker in a 4-4-2 and sometimes as a left winger in a 4-2-3-1. He often received the ball wide and attacked defenders in isolation.

His early strengths stood out:

• Acceleration over short distances
• Confident dribbling in one-on-one situations
• Ability to strike with power from the edge of the box
• Calm finishing in open play

Yet his game lacked balance. He drifted out of matches for long spells. He tracked back inconsistently and did not always read defensive triggers. When Milan pressed high, he sometimes arrived a step late. Coaches demanded more discipline without limiting his attacking freedom.

During the 2019–20 season, he scored six league goals. That total reflected promise rather than dominance. He needed structure. He also needed clarity about his best position.

Tactical shift under Stefano Pioli

The arrival of Stefano Pioli brought stability. Pioli fixed Leão on the left side of a 4-2-3-1 and gave him a defined role. The coach asked him to stretch the field, attack the half-space, and link with the left-back. He also demanded quicker decisions in the final third.

This shift marked a turning point. Leão no longer drifted inside too early. He held wide during the buildup and waited for the right moment to cut toward the goal. He combined more often with the central striker and the attacking midfielder. He started to use short passes to draw defenders before accelerating into space.

During the 2021–22 campaign, he reached a new level. He scored 11 league goals and added 10 assists as Milan won the Serie A title. His output showed greater consistency. He attacked defenders with intent rather than hesitation. He chose when to dribble and when to pass.

Key changes in that season included:

1. Faster ball circulation near the box
2. Better timing of runs behind the defence
3. Stronger defensive tracking on the flank
4. Improved composure in tight areas

Leão did not rely only on speed. He learned to control tempo. At times, he slowed play, drew two markers, and opened space for teammates. That maturity signalled growth.

Statistical growth across seasons

The numbers confirm his progress. The table below outlines his league contributions during key seasons with Milan:

These figures show steady development. He increased both scoring and creative output. He also raised his involvement in build-up phases. His dribble volume remained high, but he used it with greater purpose.

Coaches valued his ability to carry the ball over long distances. He often turned defence into attack within seconds. When Milan recovered possession, he sprinted into open channels and forced opponents to retreat. That direct threat shaped match dynamics.

Mental growth and responsibility

Leão faced criticism during slower periods. Observers questioned his focus and work rate. He answered through performance rather than statements. In tight matches, he started to demand the ball. He accepted the burden of creating danger when the team struggled to break lines.

He improved his reaction to physical contact. Early in his career, he sometimes avoided duels. Over time, he engaged more often and used his frame to shield possession. He also reduced unnecessary touches. Instead of attempting a dribble in every scenario, he scanned options and chose simpler solutions.

Leadership does not always require loud communication. Leão leads through actions. When Milan needs penetration, he attacks defenders without delay. When the tempo drops, he injects pace. Teammates look to him during critical phases.

His contract renewal in 2023 confirmed the club’s trust. That decision placed him at the centre of the sporting project. He now carries expectations that extend beyond statistics.

Role in European competition

Leão’s influence extends to continental matches. In the UEFA Champions League, he often faces compact defensive blocks. Those settings demand precision. Space shrinks quickly. Opponents double-mark him near the sideline.

He responds by adjusting his movement. Instead of hugging the touchline at all times, he drifts inward to combine with midfielders. He also drops deeper to collect the ball and initiate transitions. That versatility complicates defensive plans.

In the 2022–23 Champions League run to the semi-finals, he scored crucial goals and created several clear chances. His acceleration caused problems against organised back lines. Even when he did not score, he shifted attention and freed space for others.

Relationship with teammates

Leão’s link-up play has improved with experience. His connection with the left-back stands out. He often waits for the overlapping run before cutting inside. That coordination stretches the defence.

He also combines effectively with the central striker. When the striker drops toward midfield, Leão attacks the channel behind defenders. When the striker stays high, Leão uses short passes and quick exchanges to enter the box.

His passing range has expanded. Early in his Milan spell, he favoured short combinations. Now he attempts diagonal balls across the area and early crosses from advanced positions. These additions increase unpredictability.

Areas that required correction

Development never occurs without setbacks. Leão needed to address specific weaknesses:

• Inconsistent defensive tracking during high press
• Fluctuating concentration in matches with low tempo
• Shot selection from difficult angles
• Emotional reaction to fouls or refereeing decisions

He tackled these issues through repetition and tactical instruction. Coaches reviewed footage with him and highlighted positional errors. Training sessions focused on quick decision cycles in the final third.

He still experiences dips in form. However, those periods no longer define entire months. He recovers faster and contributes even when he does not score.

Physical conditioning and durability

Leão’s physical profile supports his style. He combines height with speed, which gives him leverage in duels. Over recent seasons, he has improved his stamina. He now sustains high-intensity runs into the final stages of matches.

Injury management also plays a role. He missed a limited time due to muscle problems compared to earlier stages of his career. Consistent availability strengthens rhythm and confidence.

Influence on team structure

Milan’s tactical setup often revolves around Leão’s presence on the left flank. Opponents adjust their shape to contain him. They assign a second defender to block his inside runs. That focus opens corridors elsewhere.

When Leão attracts two markers, Milan switches play quickly to the opposite wing. This pattern stretches defensive lines. His gravity alters spacing even when he does not touch the ball.

He also improves counterattacking speed. The team seeks him immediately after regaining possession. His first touch usually directs play forward. That directness reduces transitional risk.

Current stage and future direction

Leão now stands in his mid-twenties. He has moved beyond the label of prospect. He carries the responsibility of a leading attacker in Serie A. His challenge involves maintaining standards over multiple seasons.

To continue progress, he must refine three aspects:

1. Increase efficiency in front of goal during congested matches
2. Sustain defensive contribution during long stretches without possession
3. Guide younger teammates through example and communication

He already shows signs of growth in these areas. He accepts tactical adjustments without complaint. He contributes in matches where space disappears. He also handles pressure from title races and European knockout rounds.

Conclusion

Rafael Leão’s evolution at Milan reflects steady refinement rather than sudden change. He arrived as a fast and talented forward. He grew into a structured, productive winger who shapes matches in multiple ways. His statistics improved, but numbers alone do not capture his influence. He alters defensive positioning, accelerates transitions, and injects urgency when the team requires initiative.

He still seeks greater consistency. Every top attacker faces scrutiny when form dips. Yet he responds with effort and focus. His growth stems from tactical discipline, mental maturity, and physical development.

Milan relies on him not only for goals and assists but also for momentum. He accepts that burden. If he continues to refine his decision-making and sustain intensity, he will remain central to the club’s ambitions in domestic and European competitions.

Chelsea central midfielder Enzo Fernandez is reportedly on the radar of Paris Saint-Germain amid some uncertainty over his long-term future.

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The Argentina international has been one of the major signings of the Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali ‘BlueCo’ project, but it seems he might not be staying for the long term after all.

That’s according to a report from L’Equipe, who cast some doubt over Fernandez seeing out his long-term contract with Chelsea as he prepares to play against transfer suitors PSG in the Champions League this evening.

We’ve previously covered Fernandez transfer interest from Real Madrid, but it seems PSG could also be one to watch as they look to make changes to their midfield.

PSG eyeing Enzo Fernandez transfer to build star-studded midfield

PSG already have some of the finest midfield players in world football in the form of Vitinha and Joao Neves, but there’s still perhaps also some room for improvement.

Fernandez would likely be an upgrade on Fabian Ruiz and Warren Zaire-Emery, though one imagines he wouldn’t come cheap as CFC surely won’t be too keen to let him go.

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In fact, a recent report from TEAMtalk stated that the Blues were keen to open talks with both Fernandez and Moises Caicedo over new contracts.

That is perhaps a message to a club like PSG over their chances of landing Fernandez, though aside from the cost we’re adamant that he’d be a great fit at the Parc des Princes…

Enzo Fernandez Transfer Fit rating

Using our Transfer Fit rating system, we’ve scored Fernandez a high 18/25 for PSG.

Fernandez is close to ideal for the Ligue 1 giants’ needs, as he’s one of the finest midfielders in world football on his day, who’s won major trophies such as the Club World Cup and the Europa Conference League with Chelsea, and the World Cup with Argentina.

His price tag would likely be an issue, but at the age of 25 they’d also get him for what should be his peak years in the near future, so this could be a player well worth paying over the odds for.

The post Major club monitoring important Chelsea star’s uncertain transfer situation appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku is reportedly attracting transfer interest from Atletico Madrid ahead of this summer.

This comes as Man City and Doku have talks scheduled to resolve the Belgium international’s long-term future at the Etihad Stadium, according to TEAMtalk.

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Despite showing moments of real quality since joining City, Doku hasn’t quite established himself as a regular starter, particularly since Pep Guardiola brought in Antoine Semenyo in January.

Doku could surely still have a role to play as a squad player at City, but that’s also probably not something the 23-year-old himself would be that happy with.

Jeremy Doku could get La Liga transfer opportunity

TEAMtalk’s report adds that Doku could get the opportunity to move to Spain as Atletico Madrid are planning to make major changes to their attack this summer.

It remains to be seen if City will allow such a deal to go ahead, as the report suggests they have already planned talks over a possible new contract for a player they rate highly.

Still, Doku himself seems to be unsettled, so Atletico may fancy their chances of getting a deal done here.

Should Man City keep Jeremy Doku?

Doku is an exciting talent who could still blossom into a more well-rounded player, but City might also do well to cash in on him.

With only three goals and seven assists in all competitions so far this season, Doku isn’t really contributing enough on a regular basis.

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It’s not too surprising that MCFC felt they needed to add someone like Semenyo to their squad in January, while there was also the addition of Rayan Cherki in the summer.

All in all, that gives Guardiola a lot of options, so it might make sense to offload one or two of those players to perhaps make room for signings elsewhere in the squad.

The post Talks scheduled: Manchester City star could leave for surprise La Liga transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Former Roma defender Alessandro Florenzi says José Mourinho wanted to bring him back to the Stadio Olimpico in 2021: ‘He knew it wasn’t true that I had argued with everyone.’

Ex-Italy international Florenzi reveals Mourinho wanted to work with him at Roma in 2021 after the Portuguese surprisingly took charge of the Giallorossi.

Florenzi: Mourinho knew I hadn’t argued with everyone at Roma

“He called me; he wondered why I had argued with everyone,” Florenzi told Corriere dello Sport.

“Ask people in Trigoria; it wasn’t true. Mourinho knew it too. He wanted me, and I’d have played for him.”

Florenzi spent nine seasons at Roma, leaving the club in January 2020. He then played for Valencia and PSG, on loan, but when Mourinho was appointed as the new Giallorossi coach in 2021, the Italian had a chance to return to the Olimpico.

After his return from PSG, however, Florenzi joined Milan, first on loan and then on a permanent deal from 2022-23.

The Euro 2020 Italy winner scored 28 goals in 280 games with Roma. He retired at the end of the 2024-25 campaign; so what’s next for him?

“Being a coach must be tough,” he said.

“I can’t say it with certainty now, many people say that a coaching role would suit me, others say I should be a director. I’d like to talk to the players, work with them and help, but I still don’t know in which capacity.”

Florenzi also scored two goals in 49 appearances with the Italy national team. His final appearance was in June 2022, in a 0-0 draw against England.

Ex-Torino goalkeeper Joe Hart feels Igor Tudor was wrong to replace Antonin Kinsky just 17 minutes into Atletico Madrid-Tottenham: ‘Even Gigi Buffon had bad nights.’

• Read more – De Gea’s message to under-fire Tottenham keeper Kinsky: ‘No one can understand’

Tudor has once again made headlines for the wrong reasons at Tottenham as Spurs suffered a 5-2 away loss at Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.

Hart reacts to Kinsky’s substitution in Atletico Madrid 5-2 Tottenham

Tudor surprisingly benched Italy international Guglielmo Vicario to start Kinsky instead, but after the 22-year-old made two silly mistakes that led to Atletico Madrid goals, the Spurs boss changed his mind and brought Vicario back in.

“To get to this level, signed by Spurs, one mistake does not alter you,” Hart, a former Torino goalkeeper, told TNT Sports via The Sun.

“That is a technical error, but what precedes that… was it the right decision? Maybe it was. But what I saw after…

“I hate being reactive because I like to know all the facts. But the fact he has taken him off in that situation, having played him… he is young, 22, he is not a man, he has done nothing to try and hurt Spurs.”

Tudor attracted plenty of criticism, even in Italy, where ex-West Ham striker Paolo Di Canio suggested that his goalkeepers’ management during last night’s match could have consequences for his coaching career. 

“[Kinsky had] a couple of bad moments, but to rip him off in this situation and not even acknowledge the guy?” Hart continued.

“Every single one of Tottenham’s players who are feeling the pain doesn’t know what to do. How is that good for him?’

“It is a thing with ‘keepers, you have got to accept you will have nights like that. Everyone has them. Buffon, Neuer, Schmeichel.

“They have had moments, but everything that has gone on on top of it, he will feel so unwelcome as far as the management is involved.

“You have to be treated like a human, just a little bit. I understand the situation.

“This needs getting a serious grip of. Madness happens all the time in football. That was mad. Maybe he didn’t handle it how he should have.

“I saw the whole bench’s hearts drop. They are saying, “Don’t worry, we are here for you”.

“It’s the human side of things. If you aren’t willing to show it, that’s when it starts to divide.”

Tudor has lost all four of his games in charge of Tottenham and is already on the brink of being sacked in North London.

He was sacked by Juventus at the end of October and hired by Spurs on February 14.

Bologna winger Federico Bernardeschi says he ‘never talked’ to Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso and admits fear of World Cup play-off is ‘real’ but ‘it must not turn into a phobia.’

The World Cup play-offs are just around the corner, with Italy hosting Northern Ireland in the semifinals in Bergamo on March 26.

Bernardeschi, a Euro 2020 winner, is not expected to be part of the team that Gennaro Gattuso will release next week.

Bernardeschi: World Cup play-off fear should ‘push you to raise the bar’

“I’ve never talked to him, except when he visited Serie A clubs, and we exchanged a couple of words,” Bernardeschi said in the second part of his interview with Gazzetta via TMW.

Italy have already been knocked out of the World Cup play-offs in 2018 and 2022.

“It’s a real fear, and it’s right that it exists, but it must not turn into a phobia,” said the experienced winger.

“It should push you to raise the bar, so you’re ready to compete. The entire external environment needs to start helping, because it’s something that belongs to all of Italy.

“It seems to me that people almost take pleasure when the Azzurri do badly, and that’s an ugly thing. They can’t wait to say you aren’t good enough and judge you after just two matches.”

When asked to pick two wingers for the Azzurri, choosing among him, Domenico Berardi, and Mattia Zaccagni, Bernardeschi replied, “The Euros champions,” which means he and Berardi.

During the same interview, Bernardeschi revealed that he could have joined Atalanta before signing for Toronto FC in 2022, admitting that his decision was mostly driven by money.

Bernardeschi returned to Serie A last summer, joining Vincenzo Italiano at Bologna.

A former Fiorentina and Juventus star, Bernardeschi has grabbed five goals and one assist in 32 appearances across all competitions.

La Gazzetta dello Sport examines Atalanta’s 6-1 loss to Bayern Munich, calling it ‘an embarrassment for Serie A and Italian football.’

Atalanta, the last Serie A club remaining in the Champions League, suffered a humiliating 6-1 home defeat to Bayern Munich last night in the Round of 16 first leg.

Fabio Capello noted that the result was a “lesson” for Italian football, and Gazzetta dello Sport journalist Luigi Garlando had exactly the same feeling.

Atalanta’s huge defeat an ’embarrassment for Serie A and Italian football’

“In the last Champions League, the last Italian team remaining, Inter, conceded five goals in the Final in Munich. This year, the last one to go out, Atalanta, conceded six at home against the team from Munich,” the journalist wrote.

“There’s no point beating around the bush. It wasn’t just an embarrassment for Atalanta. First and foremost, it was an embarrassment for Serie A and Italian football.”

Juventus and Inter were eliminated in the knockout play-off, while Napoli didn’t even go beyond the league phase.

“The defending Serie A champions, Napoli, finished in 39th in the league phase. The current league leaders, Inter, were knocked out before the Round of 16 by the honest but hardly galactic Bodo/Glimt,” continued Garlando.

“Add that to Norway’s aggregate 7-1 win over Italy, draw a line, and do the math: this is who we are.”

Italy will play in Bergamo in just two weeks, hosting Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semifinal.

“The good part, so to speak, is that in 15 days, in this very stadium, our national team will face Northern Ireland to try to avert a third Apocalypse,” Garlando sadly concluded.

“If Gattuso was hoping for a morale boost from our top clubs in Europe, he didn’t get it.”

Arsenal are reportedly considering a summer transfer window move for Newcastle United full-back Tino Livramento amid uncertainty over his future.

The 23-year-old will have just two years left on his Newcastle contract this summer and has so far not shown a willingness to sign a new deal.

That’s according to a report from the Telegraph, which goes on to state that Arsenal are keen on Livramento and eyeing up a possible summer offer for him.

This is not the first time we’ve seen Livramento linked with Arsenal, while we’ve also covered Manchester United and City’s interest in the England international.

Tino Livramento transfer opportunity will surely be tempting for Arsenal and other big clubs

Livramento has done well at Newcastle, despite some injury problems, so his situation will surely continue to be of interest to Arsenal and other big clubs in the weeks and months ahead.

The former Chelsea youngster’s contract situation might mean he is able to move for relatively cheap this summer, though the Telegraph do not name a specific price in their report.

That requires a bit of guessing for our Transfer Fit rating, but see below for the score Livramento to Arsenal got, and click here to read more about how our methodology works…

Livramento looks like he has it in him to be at the higher end of ‘medium’ for Arsenal in that he’d most likely add good depth to a position they may well need to strengthen in.

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As noted by the Telegraph and by our previous reports, Ben White’s future at the Emirates Stadium could be in some doubt this summer, so the club will need to replace this experienced and influential player.

Livramento is also young enough that he could improve with time and perhaps challenge to be a starter later on, all without costing a fortune.

The post Bid prepared: Arsenal considering move for contract rebel who’s also United & City transfer target appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky is reportedly already expected to leave the club after last night’s disaster performance against Atletico Madrid.

The 22-year-old was thrown in at the deep end last night as Spurs manager Igor Tudor named him in the starting line up against Atletico Madrid.

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However, Kinsky was then remarkably substituted off after a nightmare opening 15 minutes that saw him concede three goals, including one from a major howler.

Tudor replaced Kinsky with the usual number one Guglielmo Vicario, in what really feels like the ultimate humiliation for the young ‘keeper who’d been given a very difficult task coming into such an out-of-form and unconfident team.

Antonin Kinsky expected to leave Spurs on loan in summer transfer window

According to the Telegraph, this incident now looks likely to mean that Kinsky leaves Tottenham on loan this summer.

The Czech Republic Under-21 international is seemingly considering his options in a bid to rebuild his career, in what now looks like a long way back for him with Spurs.

It’s not often you see goalkeepers substituted during games unless they’re injured, and the overall feeling is that Tudor handled this badly.

The Telegraph are already casting serious doubts over Kinsky’s future, with the report also quoting a former club employee as describing Tudor’s behaviour as “disgraceful”.

Antonin Kinsky had looked set for no.1 position at Spurs

The Telegraph’s report also suggests Kinsky had looked set to challenge for the number one spot at Spurs, though this plan is now in tatters.

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Chelsea icon tears into Arteta tactics, slams Arsenal for ‘cheating’ their way to the title

Mar 11 2026, 16:50

It will be interesting to see where his career goes from here, but it’s going to require huge mental toughness to overcome this humiliating incident.

Kinsky had been highly rated before joining THFC as a youngster, and this will now be a big test of his quality and his character.

The post Report: Tottenham star immediately linked with transfer away after Atletico Madrid disaster appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Several of Europe’s biggest clubs are reportedly monitoring SC Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi, with Premier League sides Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal among those showing interest.

According to TEAMtalk, representatives from the three English clubs have recently attended matches to scout the promising 20-year-old Switzerland international.

Manzambi has emerged as one of the most exciting young midfield prospects in the Bundesliga.

His performances have not only attracted attention from England but have also caught the eye of continental giants Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, setting the stage for a potentially competitive transfer battle in the coming windows.

Manzambi has impressed in the Bundesliga

Manzambi has enjoyed a rapid rise at Freiburg, establishing himself as one of the club’s most dynamic midfielders despite his young age.

The Swiss international is widely regarded as a modern box-to-box midfielder, capable of contributing in both defensive and attacking phases of play.

His game is defined by energy, physical strength, and tactical intelligence.

Manzambi regularly covers large areas of the pitch, helping his team recover possession while also driving the ball forward in transition. Scouts have also highlighted his composure on the ball and his ability to link midfield with attack.

Freiburg have built a reputation in recent years for developing talented players and giving young prospects opportunities to flourish.

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Man United and Chelsea among clubs monitoring the midfielder

Man United, Chelsea, and Arsenal are all believed to be evaluating Manzambi as part of their long-term recruitment strategies.

Each of the three clubs has been seeking midfielders who can combine technical ability with athleticism, and the Swiss youngster fits that profile.

Man United have been exploring several midfield options as they continue reshaping the squad, while Chelsea’s recruitment model has focused heavily on signing young players with significant potential.

Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, are also keen to add depth and energy to their midfield as they compete on multiple fronts.

Man United consider move for 28-year-old midfielder who has impressed scouts this season 

The post Man United and Chelsea to compete for £43m Bundesliga midfielder appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Inter Milan are reportedly monitoring Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario as they begin planning for the future of their goalkeeping department.

According to Calciomercato, the Serie A leaders have been tracking the Italian international for several weeks and have identified him as a potential long-term replacement for veteran goalkeeper Yann Sommer.

Inter’s recruitment team is believed to be assessing several candidates capable of strengthening their squad ahead of the next season.

Vicario has emerged as one of the most intriguing options due to his performances in the Premier League and his growing reputation within Italian football.

Vicario’s development at Tottenham has been impressive

Vicario has gradually established himself as one of the club’s most reliable performers.

The 29-year-old shot-stopper is known for his quick reflexes, command of the penalty area, and ability to distribute the ball effectively from the back.

His recent form has been inconsistent though but there is no question about his quality as a goalkeeper.

The 29-year-old shot-stopper is known for his quick reflexes, command of the penalty area, and ability to distribute the ball effectively from the back.

His ability to produce important saves during difficult matches has helped maintain his status as one of the squad’s standout players.

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Mar 11 2026, 15:34

Inter Milan are planning for the future

Inter Milan’s interest in Vicario is closely linked to their long-term planning between the posts.

Yann Sommer, who has been an important figure in the team’s recent success, is now approaching the latter stages of his career.

The club’s hierarchy is therefore evaluating options capable of taking over as the next first-choice goalkeeper in the coming years.

Vicario’s experience in both Serie A and the Premier League makes him an attractive candidate.

Reports suggest that Tottenham would likely demand a fee of around €30 million to consider a transfer.

Man United and Tottenham have same Premier League manager on their radar

The post Tottenham could lose key player to Euro giants looking for a long term solution appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Match Overview

A blockbuster Round of 16 showdown in the UEFA Champions League pits two contenders widely expected to make deep runs, but only one will survive to reach the quarterfinals. Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain arrive after battling through a demanding matchup against AS Monaco and now aim to keep their title defense firmly on track.

Standing in their way are Chelsea, a team that has impressed throughout the competition and believes it has the quality to knock out the reigning European champions in what promises to be one of the most electrifying clashes of the round.

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According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus have submitted a written offer to sign Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi as a free agent.

Juventus have reportedly made a formal step forward to sign Senesi as a free agent from Premier League side Bournemouth.

According to Gazzetta, the Serie A giants have sent the Argentine defender an official, written offer.

Juventus send offer for Senesi

Senesi is a long-time target of Juventus director Damien Comolli, and talks between the defender’s entourage and the Serie A giants already began a few weeks ago.

According to the report, Senesi is tempted to join Juventus, but the Bianconeri aren’t the only club interested in securing his signature.

The Argentine is expected to receive more proposals over the next few weeks as his contract with Bournemouth runs out this coming June.

Juventus, however, have already made an initial step forward and hope to be well-positioned in the race for the 28-year-old centre-back.

The Serie A giants have opened talks with other free agents, including Bernardo Silva, Leon Goretzka and Zeki Celik.

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Fiorentina star Moise Kean is Massimiliano Allegri’s preferred target to strengthen the Milan attack for the 2026-27 season.

Fiorentina and Italy star striker Kean is Allegri’s primary target in attack for next season, according to Gazzetta.

Allegri already coached Kean at Juventus, giving him his senior debut in November 2016.

Milan already in talks for Kean

Kean has a €62m clause included in his Fiorentina contract. It is only valid in the first two weeks of July, but the Rossoneri have already initiated talks, hoping to lower the Tuscans’ demands.

This past August, Kean signed a contract extension with Fiorentina, raising his clause from €52m to €62m.

According to Gazzetta, Borussia Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy is another Milan target for next season, and so is Dusan Vlahovic, although Juventus are confident about reaching an agreement to extend the Serbian striker’s contract, which expires this coming June.

Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao are Milan’s best scorers this season with 10 goals each across all competitions.

Fiorentina star David De Gea sided with under-fire Tottenham goalkeeper Antonín Kinský, who was subbed off after just 17 minutes in a Champions League match against Atletico Madrid last night: ‘Keep your head up.’

Tottenham suffered a 5-2 away loss to Atletico Madrid last night, with coach Igor Tudor and Spurs’ second-choice keeper Kinsky in the spotlight for the wrong reasons.

De Gea to Kinsky: ‘No one can understand…’

Tudor dropped Italy international Guglielmo Vicario to give Kinsky his Champions League debut at 22, but the Czech goalkeeper poorly conceded two of Atletico Madrid’s opening three goals in the first 15 minutes and was subbed off after just 17.

Fiorentina star De Gea came out in defence of the young Tottenham goalkeeper with a message on X social media: “No one who hasn’t been a goalkeeper can understand how difficult it is to play in this position,” wrote De Gea.

“Keep your head up and you will go again.”

Sky Sport Italia pundit Paolo Di Canio, a former West Ham star, examined Tudor’s decisions, especially Kinsky’s unconventional substitution after just 17 minutes, suggesting that the ex-Juventus coach might pay a high price in his coaching career.

Overall, it was a very bad night for Italian football as Atalanta, the only Serie A side remaining in the Champions League Round of 16, suffered a 6-1 home loss to Bayern Munich.

Former Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has sent a classy social media message to Tottenham’s Antonin Kinsky after his horror-show against Atletico Madrid.

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Kinsky was brought into the starting line up for Spurs against Atletico in something of a surprise call from interim manager Igor Tudor, who then subbed the young shot-stopper after just 15 minutes.

Things couldn’t really have gone much worse for Kinsky, who conceded three goals, including making one absolutely shocking mistake, in that opening quarter-of-an-hour period.

Still, Tudor has received strong criticism for publicly shaming his ‘keeper by starting him in such a big game and then substituting him so quickly, with De Gea sending a clear message of support…

No one who hasn't been a goalkeeper can understand how difficult it is to play in this position.

Keep your head up and you will go again.

— David de Gea (@D_DeGea) March 10, 2026

“No one who hasn’t been a goalkeeper can understand how difficult it is to play in this position. Keep your head up and you will go again,” the Spaniard posted on X.

Footballing world rallies around Antonin Kinsky

This was a really nice touch by De Gea as Kinsky must be going through his own personal hell right now after such a disastrous outing last night.

The 22-year-old is still relatively inexperienced and learning the game, and surely needed backing from Tudor at that crucial moment.

Another former Man Utd ‘keeper, Peter Schmeichel, also stood up for Kinsky when he spoke on punditry duty after the game.

The Red Devils legend slammed Tudor for putting him in such a difficult position and seriously harming his career.

“This will be a moment that everybody in football will remember when they see or hear (Kinsky’s) name…You’ve got to stick with him at least until half-time… He’s absolutely killed his career. I feel really sorry for him,” Schmeichel said.

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Mar 11 2026, 15:34

Joe Hart also criticised Tudor’s decision on TNT Sports, as quoted by the Daily Mail: “To get to this level, signed by Spurs, one mistake does not alter you. That is a technical error, but what precedes that… was it the right decision? Maybe it was. But what I saw after…

“I hate being reactive because I like to know all the facts. But the fact he has taken him off in that situation having played him… he is young, 22, he is not a man, he has done nothing to try and hurt Spurs.”

The post Legendary goalkeeper sends classy message to Tottenham’s Antonin Kinsky after humiliating moment appeared first on CaughtOffside.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has confirmed that he’s spoken with US President Donald Trump about Iran’s possible participation at the 2026 World Cup.

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Trump recently put the US at war with Iran, but there have been mixed messages about how soon the conflict could come to an end.

Infantino, posting on his official Instagram account, says he’s spoken with Trump and been given reassurances that Iran would still be welcome to participate at the World Cup, which will be held in North America this summer.

Gianni Infantino’s update after talks with Donald Trump

“This evening, I met with the President of the United States, Donald J. Trump to discuss the status of preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, and the growing excitement as we are set to kick off in just 93 days,” he said.

“We also spoke about the current situation in Iran, and the fact that the Iranian team has qualified to participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026. During the discussions, President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States.

“We all need an event like the FIFA World Cup to bring people together now more than ever, and I sincerely thank the President of the United States for his support, as it shows once again that Football Unites the World.”

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FIFA rule out delaying World Cup

Elsewhere, a FIFA spokesperson has publicly ruled out postponing the World Cup, which is due to start in just over three months’ time.

It could be that everything has blown over by then, but this whole saga will once again raise serious question-marks over giving the US this tournament.

Mexico and Canada will also be co-hosts, but the US is obviously a big player in this and simply looks too unstable right now to be able to welcome fans from all over the world.

The post FIFA chief confirms USA-Iran World Cup boost after talks with Donald Trump appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United are reportedly keeping a close watch on Bournemouth midfielder Marcus Tavernier as they prepare for what could be another busy summer transfer window.

According to Football Insider, the 26-year-old attacking midfielder has been added to the Red Devils’ shortlist of potential targets as the club evaluates ways to strengthen its squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

United’s recruitment team is believed to be assessing several creative midfield options, with Tavernier emerging as one of the names under consideration.

The Bournemouth player has impressed scouts this season with his consistency and versatility, making him an attractive candidate for clubs seeking proven Premier League talent.

Tavernier has had a positive impact at Bournemouth

Tavernier has enjoyed a productive season with Bournemouth, playing a significant role in the team’s attacking structure.

In the 2025/26 Premier League campaign, the midfielder has been directly involved in nine goals across 25 league appearances, contributing both goals and assists from midfield.

Originally developed at Middlesbrough, Tavernier earned recognition for his energy, creativity, and ability to influence games in the final third before making the move to Bournemouth.

Since joining the south coast club, he has steadily improved his performances and developed into a key player in their attacking system.

His strengths include intelligent movement, sharp passing, and the ability to carry the ball forward under pressure.

Tavernier’s versatility also allows him to operate in several roles, including as an attacking midfielder, wide playmaker, or deeper creative presence in midfield.

We’ve given Tavernier to Real Madrid a Transfer Fit rating of 16/25 – find out more about how it works here.

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Man United receive boost in pursuit of Tavernier

Man United’s interest in Tavernier appears to be part of an effort to increase the team’s attacking creativity from midfield areas.

The club has been exploring options capable of complementing their existing players while providing additional depth for a demanding schedule that includes domestic and European competitions.

Reports suggest Bournemouth could be willing to consider offers if the right proposal arrives, with earlier estimates indicating that a transfer fee of around £40 million might be enough to secure the player’s services.

While it remains to be seen whether United will make a formal move, the midfielder’s creativity and versatility make him an interesting option for the Red Devils.

Sources: Liverpool, Man Utd, & Chelsea eye signing of “strong” £30m Premier League star

The post Report: Premier League club open to offers for midfielder Man United want to sort midfield troubles appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly two clubs on red alert as Alexis Mac Allister looks to have decided to leave Liverpool.

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The Argentina international has 19 goals in 137 appearances for Liverpool, helping them win the Premier League title last season, but it seems he now wants a new challenge.

According to Fichajes, Mac Allister has notified the Reds of his desire to leave as he wants to make the move out of the Premier League.

The report names Real Madrid and PSG as Mac Allister’s main suitors, and it’s certainly easy to imagine the 27-year-old being a success with either of those teams.

Alexis Mac Allister transfer blow for Liverpool

Mac Allister has been an important player for LFC, so if he really is looking to leave Anfield then it’s going to be hard to replace him.

The former Brighton man is a fine all-rounder in midfield, providing work rate, quality on the ball, and an eye for the occasional goal from the middle of the park.

Having lost Trent Alexander-Arnold and Luis Diaz last summer, and with Ibrahima Konate coming towards the end of his contract, it’s far from ideal that another key part of this squad could be moving on.

We’ve given Mac Allister to Real Madrid a Transfer Fit rating of 14/25 – find out more about how it works here.

Could the Premier League lose big players?

It’s been a strange season in the Premier League, with many fans and pundits bemoaning a dip in the overall entertainment value of the competition.

Arne Slot himself has said he’s not finding the football here much of a joy to watch anymore, and it will be interesting to see if that leads to players like Mac Allister looking to move abroad.

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Fichajes’ report makes it clear that Mac Allister wants to try something different from the fast and frenetic pace of English football.

It’s always been a highly competitive league, but it seems to be getting even more so, while the style of play is also increasingly physically demanding and based a lot around set piece tactics and physicality, rather than free-flowing, attack-minded football.

The post Report: Real Madrid & PSG on alert as Liverpool star notifies them he wants to leave appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Hansi Flick promises that “we’ll see a different Barca in the return leg” after they salvaged a late draw against Newcastle United in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 clash. Barcelona were far from their best at St. James’ Park, but a last-gasp Lamine Yamal penalty was enough to ensure they did […]

The post ´We´ll see a different Barca in the return leg´ – Flick promises improvement against Newcastle appeared first on Soccer News.

The post ´We´ll see a different Barca in the return leg´ – Flick promises improvement against Newcastle appeared first on Soccer News.

Ex-Italian coach Fabio Capello says Atalanta were ‘fortunate’ to only concede six goals against Bayern Munich: ‘This is a lesson for Italian football.’

Atalanta, the only Serie A side to have qualified for the Champions League Round of 16, suffered a heavy 6-1 home loss against Bayern Munich last night.

Capello: Atalanta’s humiliation ‘a lesson’ for Italian football

“I saw a team that pressed and ran, with everyone showing impressive quality, in vision and possession,” Capello told Sky Sport via TMW.

“Every time Bayern won the ball back, they went straight forward and sprinted into space. With that kind of technique, they clearly put Atalanta in trouble.

“Atalanta were actually fortunate to concede only six goals. It could have been many more, and the goalkeeper made some good saves as well. This is a lesson for Italian football. Atalanta were the only Italian side to qualify for the Round of 16 and had beaten Borussia Dortmund, but they didn’t stand a chance against the top German team.”

• Read more – Player ratings: Atalanta 1-6 Bayern Munich – Olise teaches La Dea a lesson

Former Italian striker Paolo Di Canio says Igor Tudor ‘destroyed’ Antonín Kinský and could ‘pay for that in his career at the highest levels,’ especially because Tottenham’s previous defeats were ‘not Vicario’s fault.’

Tottenham coach Tudor made headlines last night as he dropped Italy international Vicario to give 22-year-old Kinsky his Champions League debut.

Spurs went 3-0 down after just 15 minutes at the Wanda Metropolitano, with Kinsky cheaply conceding two goals. As a result, Tudor replaced the Czech goalkeeper with Vicario after only 16 minutes.

Tudor explains Kinsky-Vicario decision

“I’ve been coaching for 15 years and I’ve never done it before. It was necessary to preserve the guy and the team. Before the game, it was the right choice, in a moment like we are, with pressure on Vicario,” Tudor explained at a post-match press conference.

“Antonín is a very good goalkeeper. For me, it was the right decision. After, of course, it’s easy to say it was not right. I spoke to Tony after; he’s a right guy, a good goalkeeper, and unfortunately, these mistakes happen in these games. The start of the game was too much for us.”

Former West Ham, Lazio, Juventus and Milan striker Paolo Di Canio examined Tudor’s decisions during Sky Sport Italia’s post-match show on Tuesday and was quite harsh on the Croatian tactician.

“He’s not entirely wrong, but in this case, he also brought it on himself. I feel sorry for him. Maybe he just lets everything slide off him and doesn’t realise what the tabloids will write. They are ruthless,” Di Canio said via Corriere dello Sport.

“They’ll destroy him, because when you make choices like that, you are hard to understand. I don’t know if there was some issue with Vicario, and there was probably some confrontation in the dressing room, but certainly not because the recent defeats are Vicario’s fault. He’s made a few mistakes, but was a complete shambles of a team in front of him, leaking from every side.

“If you put in such a delicate match, a kid who comes in with 17 appearances for Slavia Prague, and say the player is strong with just six appearances, you asked for it, and you destroyed him,” Di Canio continued.

“I understand that Igor is very tough, and I don’t know if he’ll pay for that in his career at the highest levels. I really don’t think he’ll stay at Tottenham; they’ll go and get an English coach.”

Tudor was sacked by Juventus at the end of October 2025 and replaced by Luciano Spalletti.

He accepted the Tottenham job on February 14, 2026, but has lost all four of his games in charge.

La Gazzetta dello Sport

Dea nightmare, too much Bayern

Never in the game, but the fans applaud

Milan, my love

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The goal has disappeared

No Serie A goals: 62 goals less than last season

Trezeguet: ‘I watch Juventus for Yildiz only, I expected more from Vlahovic.’

Dumfries’ cure: back as a starter after 125 days

Corriere dello Sport

Rocchi’s certainties

‘It was a penalty, it wasn’t a penalty.’

Damage for Roma, Milan-Inter correct.

Malinovskyi? The double touch doesn’t justify the lack of a penalty for the Giallorossi. Ricci’s handball was assessed correctly.

Spalletti and Juve, renewal and five coups

Napoli, Conte finds McT again

Lazio, strike blocked for 90 minutes

Too much Bayern for Dea

Kompany’s team dominates: 3-0 after 25 minutes. Goals from Stanisic, Olise (2), Gnabry, Jackson Musiala and Pasalic. Tottenham crushed 52- by Atletico Madrid; Tudor’s disaster. He preferred Kinsky to Vicario, then replaced him at minute 17.

Tuttosport

Bayern’s walk in the park; our Champions League is already over

Dea shock! Europe smashes us

Spalletti’s list

Juve of the future: six reinforcements plus a goalkeeper

Kolo for the attack, Ederson and Goretzka in central midfield, Pellegrini as an attacking midfielder, Celik on the wings, and Senesi in defence: here are the main targets identified by the coach for a step forward, but there are other names too: a high-level alternative between the sticks (Vicario sounded out). Lucio considers Nico Gonzalez’s return from Madrid. Fenerbahce on Openda. Even Gatti can be sacrificed for the finances.

Reds flop, tragicomic Tottenham for Tudor

Zapata’s clause, Toro can terminate the contract.

Tottenham could reportedly already be set to part ways with interim manager Igor Tudor after just four games in charge.

The Croatian tactician has made an awful start to life at Spurs, culminating in last night’s dire performance in a 5-2 Champions League defeat against Atletico Madrid.

It seems Tudor’s struggles could now seriously lead Tottenham into making a speedy change in the dugout, with former player and club legend Robbie Keane contacted about coming in, according to TEAMtalk.

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Tudor probably thought he’d have a bit more time, but things have been so bad that it seems Tottenham’s board are now already exploring options to replace him.

The latest on Igor Tudor and Tottenham’s manager situation

TEAMtalk’s Graeme Bailey has provided an update on Spurs’ manager situation, with Tudor seemingly in real danger, and with Keane approached over coming in to try to rescue the club as they look to be facing the very real threat of relegation.

“The club’s hierarchy are now in talks having previously decided that Tudor would get until after the Atletico second leg…but the first leg defeat has forced a rethink,” Bailey said.

He added: “As it stands the club are continuing to do work, as they have been for more than a week, on options to replace Igor Tudor – the hierarchy are aware that the squad have not reacted to Tudor as they hoped.

“Robbie Keane has been spoken to, but he is also a top target for Crystal Palace and has been linked to Celtic, heading into the summer.

“Spurs are considering all options and we understand a host of agents and intermediaries have contacted them about potential replacements. But Keane is very much a preferred option.”

? Igor Tudor on possibility of getting sacked: “It's not about me. We need to stay calm. Less talking”.

“Better less talking. Now is not the moment to try and give a big explanation”. pic.twitter.com/DTkEyWrEms

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 11, 2026

How bad could things get for Tottenham?

Tottenham are currently on a run of six consecutive defeats in all competitions, with the team’s dire form leaving them just a point above the relegation zone.

Meanwhile, last night’s heavy defeat in Spain surely means the team can kiss goodbye to their Champions League campaign this season.

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There’s not a lot of time left for THFC to turn things around, and it perhaps seems like hiring Tudor is a gamble that has majorly backfired.

At the same time, however, Keane isn’t that experienced and might not be the best option either, considering the seriousness of the club’s situation.

The post Igor Tudor could be sacked already, Tottenham legend “has been spoken to” about emergency move appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal’s quest for a maiden European crown faces a significant hurdle as manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that captain Martin Ødegaard will miss tonight’s Champions League Round of 16 first leg against Bayer Leverkusen.

Ødegaard has been grappling with a persistent knee injury originally sustained during a 1-1 draw with Brentford last month.

While the Norwegian international briefly returned for the North London Derby against Tottenham, he has since missed Arsenal’s last three fixtures.

Reports suggest he may be sidelined until late March or early April, leaving him in a race against time to be fit for the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City later this month.

Arteta confirmed the update ahead of Leverkusen clash

Arteta delivered a blow to the Gunners’ creative plans, simply stating of his talismanic midfielder, as reported by the official Arsenal website: “He’s out.”

While the loss of Ødegaard is a setback, the Arsenal squad received a major boost elsewhere.
William Saliba has been passed fit after missing the last two games with an ankle issue.

Declan Rice, Gabriel Magalhaes, and Martin Zubimendi are all available after being rested during the weekend’s 2-1 FA Cup victory over Mansfield Town.

Ben White traveled with the squad to Germany and could feature.

Alongside Ødegaard, Mikel Merino remains out following foot surgery, while Riccardo Calafiori and Leandro Trossard are considered late fitness tests.

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Arsenal will not rely on Eberechi Eze in Ødegaard’s absence

Arteta is expected to turn to Eberechi Eze to occupy the number 10 role.

Eze has been in sparkling form, recently netting a brace against Tottenham and the winner in the FA Cup.

He is likely to support a front line featuring Viktor Gyökeres and former Leverkusen star Kai Havertz, who returns to the BayArena for the first time since his 2020 departure.

The Gunners will be hoping to take advantage in the first leg of the Round of 16 clash against the German side.

Although Arsenal are clear favourites to go through the next round, the Champions League has a habit of coming up with surprises.

Arsenal join €140m superstar hunt with Man United as Arteta eyes “final piece of the puzzle” 

The post “He’s out” – Arteta confirms key Arsenal star will miss the UCL clash against Leverkusen appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool, Manchester United, and Chelsea are all on the lookout for a proven Premier League midfielder this summer, with sources telling me about one name attracting growing interest.

As first reported in my exclusive here for the Daily Briefing, Tyler Adams’ name has begun to surface in conversations with sources recently, with the USA international impressing scouts at a host of top clubs, with Liverpool, Man Utd, and Chelsea the three names confirmed to me.

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These clubs, in search of dynamism and pressing power in midfield, are said to view Adams as “a strong candidate who fits their tactical needs”, while there’s also the feeling that he could be available without costing a fortune this summer.

“Bournemouth could consider offers in the region of £30 million for Adams,” one source with ties to the agents industry told me. While this figure is seen as reasonable within the context of Premier League transfer strategies, Bournemouth’s position remains strong given Adams’ contract length and his importance to the squad.

Chelsea have long been linked with midfield reinforcements, and Adams’ recovery aligns with their plans to strengthen squad depth in the summer. Manchester United, meanwhile, are seeking greater energy and resilience in midfield, and Adams’ blend of Premier League experience and international pedigree makes him an appealing option. Liverpool are also believed to be tracking the player, aiming to expand their rotation in the middle of the park.

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Tyler Adams transfer might have to wait until after the World Cup

Adams’ potential transfer is significant not only in financial terms but also in its impact on the strategic direction of these clubs’ midfields. For Bournemouth, a possible sale would generate substantial funds that could play a key role in reshaping their squad.

We’ve seen the Cherries being forced to sell star players in the past, such as Dean Huijsen last summer, and Antoine Semenyo in January, so it makes sense that Adams could be the next to attract interest as a realistic and affordable target.

The post Sources: Liverpool, Man Utd, & Chelsea eye signing of “strong” £30m Premier League star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United are reportedly exploring a move for Napoli midfielder Eljif Elmas as the club continues to assess options for strengthening its midfield ahead of the summer transfer window.

According to Italian outlet Tuttomercatoweb, the Red Devils have expressed interest in the North Macedonia international, who has enjoyed a productive return to Napoli this season.

Elmas is back at the Italian club following a loan spell from RB Leipzig last summer.

Napoli reportedly hold an option to make the deal permanent for around £14 million, but speculation suggests the Serie A side could subsequently consider selling the midfielder for a higher fee if significant interest arrives.

Elmas has been impressive for Napoli on his return

Elmas initially made his name at Napoli after joining from Fenerbahçe earlier in his career, earning praise for his work rate and technical ability.

After moving to RB Leipzig, he returned to Naples in September 2025 on loan and quickly re-established himself as a valuable member of the squad.

During the current campaign, Elmas has made 36 appearances across all competitions, contributing one goal and three assists while delivering consistent performances in midfield.

Although originally expected to operate primarily in an advanced attacking role, injuries within Napoli’s squad have forced manager Antonio Conte to deploy him in several different positions.

His adaptability has proven crucial. Elmas has featured as a central midfielder, an attacking midfielder, and occasionally on both wings when the team required tactical adjustments.

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Why Man United are interested in the midfielder

Man United’s interest in Elmas is believed to stem from the club’s search for versatile midfielders capable of fitting into multiple tactical systems.

The squad has undergone significant changes in recent seasons, and the club’s recruitment strategy now focuses heavily on players who can contribute across different roles.

Elmas’ ability to cover several midfield positions while maintaining composure on the ball makes him an attractive option.

His passing range and decision-making have been particularly praised in Serie A this season, helping Napoli maintain balance in midfield during a demanding campaign.

While Napoli have the option to sign Elmas permanently, reports suggest they could be open to selling him if a profitable offer arrives.

Senior figures make decision on Chelsea star amid Man United transfer interest

The post Not McTominay: Man United have Serie A midfielder on their radar who could be available in bargain move appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O’Hara reacted angrily again at Jason Cundy in a major blow-up on talkSPORT.

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O’Hara stormed out of a recent session alongside Cundy after Spurs’ defeat at home to Crystal Palace that saw them drop worryingly closer to the relegation zone.

Now the ex-Spurs man has again failed to keep his cool, slamming Cundy for clearly winding him up on air after last night’s 5-2 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.

Watch below as O’Hara tells Cundy to “shut up” and insists he needs to do better as a professional pundit…

A truly sensational 75 second clip pic.twitter.com/fAOE8Bwoji

— The City Ramble (@TheCityRamble) March 10, 2026

Pictures from talkSPORT

O’Hara also insists he has to try his best not to swear on air, before once again simply walking away in a fit of rage.

What next for Tottenham after Champions League humiliation?

While losing to a top side like Atletico Madrid is no disgrace, the manner of last night’s result will surely be a big worry for Tottenham fans.

The north Londoners look absolutely clueless under new interim manager Igor Tudor, and found themselves 4-0 down inside 22 minutes yesterday evening.

No wonder O’Hara was in a foul mood afterwards, with this Spurs side becoming almost unwatchable as they make awful mistakes in every game at the moment.

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This heavy loss surely means the second leg is pretty much a formality for Atletico, with Spurs needing to focus on staying in the Premier League.

Based on how bad they’ve been under Tudor, however, it’s hard to see them staying up, and another change in manager may even be necessary to turn things around in the final few games of the season.

The post “Seriously, shut up!” – Jamie O’Hara loses it at co-host again as Spurs crisis continues appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has hit out at Tottenham interim manager Igor Tudor for his handling of Antonin Kinsky.

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Watch the video clip below as Schmeichel spoke on CBS Sports about Tudor’s surprise decision to sub Kinsky off after less than 15 minutes on the clock in last night’s defeat to Atletico Madrid.

Having made the big decision to start Kinsky over Spurs’ usual first-choice goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, it quickly looked like that call backfired as Kinsky looked really poor and conceded three early goals.

Still, Schmeichel says he feels Tudor needed to stick with his ‘keeper at that point, instead of taking him off and replacing him with Vicario in a humiliating moment…

“This will be a moment that everybody in football will remember when they see or hear (Kinsky’s) name…You’ve got to stick with him at least until half-time… He’s absolutely killed his career. I feel really sorry for him,” the Man Utd legend said.

Igor Tudor’s Tottenham nightmare continues

This latest result means Tudor has lost all four of his matches in charge of Tottenham so far since he came in as interim manager after Thomas Frank’s sacking.

The Croatian tactician is doing an awful job of trying to steady the ship at Spurs, and he could really have done without headlines like this as he looks to improve the morale in his squad.

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There is now surely a very real risk of Tottenham getting relegated, and last night’s 5-2 defeat away to Atletico surely means they’re heading out of the Champions League.

It will be interesting to see if Tudor actually lasts much longer as he only seems to have made things worse since being trusted with the THFC job until the end of the season.

The post Igor Tudor has “absolutely killed” Tottenham star’s career, says PL legend appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Juventus have reportedly initiated discussions with Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva over a potential move once his current contract expires.

According to Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport, the Serie A giants are exploring the possibility of signing the Portuguese international as a free agent, although they are expected to face competition from several clubs around the world.

Silva’s long-term future remains uncertain with his deal at Man City approaching its final stages.

The 31-year-old has been one of the most influential players during Pep Guardiola’s era at the Etihad Stadium, and any departure would mark the end of a highly successful chapter for both player and club.

Juventus are looking to add experience to their squad

Juventus are believed to view Silva as an ideal addition to their midfield as they continue to reshape their squad.

The Turin club has been attempting to rebuild a competitive team capable of challenging for domestic and European honours after a period of transition.

Silva’s experience at the highest level makes him an attractive target. Over the course of his career at Man City, the Portuguese playmaker has developed a reputation as one of the most technically gifted and tactically intelligent midfielders in European football.

His ability to operate in multiple roles, including as an attacking midfielder, wide playmaker, or deeper central midfielder, offers tactical flexibility that many top clubs value.

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Bernardo Silva has been highly successful at Man City

Silva has been a central figure in Man City’s rise to dominance under Guardiola.

During his time at the club, he has played a crucial role in winning numerous major trophies, including multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups, and the UEFA Champions League.

Silva’s relentless work rate, creativity, and ability to control matches have made him a favourite among City supporters and a trusted figure in Guardiola’s tactical system.

Despite his importance to the squad, speculation about Silva’s future has surfaced repeatedly in recent years, with the player occasionally linked with moves to Spain, Italy, and other leagues.

Juventus are not the only club interested in securing Silva’s services. Reports suggest Galatasaray and Inter Miami are also monitoring the situation closely.

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The post Report: Euro giants begin talks with Bernardo Silva as Man City star nears contract expiry appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has become one of the most sought-after coaches in the Premier League as the end of the season approaches.

Several clubs are closely watching his situation, with Manchester United and Tottenham reportedly interested in the Spanish tactician, according to iNews.

Iraola’s contract with Bournemouth is set to expire at the end of the current campaign, meaning he could potentially become available this summer.

With no confirmation yet that a new deal will be signed, speculation surrounding his future has intensified across English football.

Andoni Iraola’s rise as a Premier League manager

The 43-year-old has earned widespread praise for the work he has done at Bournemouth since arriving from Spanish club Rayo Vallecano. Known for his energetic tactical approach, Iraola has built a reputation for implementing an aggressive pressing style combined with quick attacking transitions.

His teams are often praised for their intensity, organisation, and ability to compete against more established opponents.

Under his guidance, Bournemouth have developed a clear playing identity, something that has caught the attention of several clubs searching for a progressive manager.

Before moving to England, Iraola impressed in La Liga with Rayo Vallecano, where he guided the Madrid-based club to promotion and later secured a memorable run to the Copa del Rey semi-finals.

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Interest from Man United and Tottenham

Man United are looking for a new manager and despite Michael Carrick impressing in his interim role at the club, he is not certain to get the job at the club.

The Red Devils are carefully assessing their options till the end of the season before making a decision.

Spurs, on the other hand, sacked Thomas Frank recently and replaced him with Igor Tudor.

They are also in a similar situation as Man United, with options being assessed behind the scenes.

Iraola will be a man in demand and his contract situation could make things easier for interested clubs.

Man United consider move for 28-year-old midfielder who has impressed scouts this season 

The post Man United and Tottenham have same Premier League manager on their radar appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham suffered a heavy 5-2 defeat to Atlético Madrid, leaving manager Igor Tudor searching for answers after one of the most chaotic matches of the club’s turbulent season.

The Croatian coach admitted after the game that the performance and particularly the events surrounding goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky, were unlike anything he had experienced in his managerial career.

Spurs entered the match hoping to build momentum and stabilise their campaign, but instead endured a dramatic collapse against Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid, who ruthlessly exposed Tottenham’s defensive fragility throughout the contest.

A night to forget for Tottenham in Spain

Tottenham boss Igor Tudor started goalkeeper Kinsky instead of Guglielmo Vicario but the goalkeeper had a night to forget.

He made several high-profile early errors which lead to Spurs going down 3-0 in the first 15 minutes of the match.

The Spanish side capitalized on Tottenham’s defensive mistakes, repeatedly exploiting the spaces left in transition.

Tudor decided to take off Kinsky for Vicario in the 16th minute of the match to end the goalkeeper’s misery, who went straight down the tunnel after the substitution.

By the time the final whistle blew, the 5-2 scoreline reflected Atlético Madrid’s dominance and Tottenham’s inability to regain control of the game.

Following the match, Tudor said, as reported by Fabrizio Romano:

“It was the right call to play Kinsky. He’s an important goalkeeper. Then what happens next has no explanation”.

“I never seen anything like this in 15 years”.

“I changed Kinsky to help him… it’s a bad moment as everything is going in wrong direction for us”.

Kinsky walks straight down the tunnel.#COYS #THFC pic.twitter.com/U6PVxGcs4F

— Chris Cowlin (@ChrisCowlin) March 10, 2026

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Atletico Madrid completely outplayed Spurs

While Tottenham struggled, Atlético Madrid demonstrated why they remain one of Europe’s most disciplined teams under Simeone.

Their defensive organisation and sharp attacking transitions proved too much for Spurs to handle.
Players across Atlético’s lineup contributed to the impressive performance, combining tactical discipline with efficient finishing in front of goal.

It is a mountain to climb for Spurs in the second leg and considering their form and recent performances, it is difficul to see them turnaround the deficit in the return leg in North London.

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The post “I have never seen anything like this” – Tudor left stunned after Atletico thrash Tottenham appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Antoine Griezmann has been heavily linked with Orlando City over recent weeks, with the MLS side pushing hard to sign him before the current transfer window closes. While also speaking to his ambitions in the UEFA Champions League, Griezmann has finally addressed his future at Atlético Madrid publicly.

With one Designated Player slot still available, Orlando City made a serious push for Griezmann, reportedly tabling an offer that would place him near Lionel Messi as one of the highest-paid players in MLS history. However, Atlético Madrid and particularly head coach Diego Simeone were reluctant to let one of their key figures walk out the door mid-season with the club’s ambitions still very much alive.

In a post-match interview with Movistar+ following Tuesday’s Champions League win over Tottenham, Griezmann was asked directly about his future, and his answer left little room for interpretation: “I feel very good here, I’m really enjoying myself, and what I’m doing on the pitch speaks for itself. We’ll see, but that’s the idea—to take this all the way to the end.“

When pressed on whether his goal was to see out the season through the Copa del Rey final on April 18 and go as deep as possible in the Champions League, Griezmann was equally emphatic. “That is my dream, my objective, and hopefully we can achieve something great,” he concluded.

The current MLS window is set to close on March 26, meaning any transfer would have required Griezmann to leave Atlético in the final stretch of a season with trophies still on the line. The Frenchman has now made his intentions clear, though that does not necessarily rule out a move later down the line.

As recently reported by Fabrizio Romano, Orlando City are prepared to wait and pursue Griezmann in the summer transfer window, targeting a move in July. Despite his contract with Atlético running through June 2027, the Lions could potentially land the French star on a free transfer, giving them the opportunity to add a world-class signing to their roster mid-2026 season.

How can Griezmann close his tenure at Atlético Madrid?

Now in his 10th season in Atlético colors, Griezmann has built a legacy at the club that speaks for itself. He sits as the all-time leading scorer in the club’s history with 210 goals, surpassing Luis Aragonés’ mark of 173, while also holding the records for most games played by a foreign player and most La Liga wins in the club’s history, currently standing at 310.

With that résumé behind him, Griezmann will want to sign off in the grandest fashion possible. In La Liga, Atlético are third with 54 points, well adrift of the title race between Barcelona (67) and Real Madrid (63), but there are more meaningful prizes within reach in other competitions.

The most immediate opportunity is the Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad on April 18, and beyond that, the Champions League remains the biggest prize of all. The Colchoneros‘ commanding 5-2 win over Tottenham gives them a healthy three-goal cushion heading into the second leg, and a path to the quarterfinals where they would face the winner of Barcelona vs. Newcastle United.

While the road to the final remains a long one, Griezmann left Tuesday’s game brimming with confidence. “We capitalized on a few of their technical errors and the pitch conditions; it’s very slippery, but we’re used to it. We played a massive game. It’s a shame about those two goals, we’ll have to improve what we did in Barcelona, but we have a solid lead.” he stated after the game.

Manchester United are reportedly assessing the possibility of signing Nottingham Forest midfielder Ibrahim Sangaré as part of their ongoing squad planning ahead of the summer transfer window.

According to Football Insider, the Ivory Coast international has caught the attention of United’s scouting department following a series of consistent performances in the Premier League this season.

United are carefully evaluating multiple midfield targets while preparing for what could be another significant recruitment drive under the club’s evolving sporting structure.

Sangaré is believed to be among several players under consideration, although any potential move may depend on whether the club first secures other priority targets higher on their transfer shortlist.

Sangare’s role at Nottingham Forest

Sangaré has been an important presence in Nottingham Forest’s midfield since joining the club from PSV Eindhoven. Known for his physicality, defensive awareness, and ball-winning ability, the 28-year-old has developed a reputation as a reliable defensive midfielder capable of shielding the back line.

During the 2025/26 season, Sangaré has made 32 appearances across all competitions, playing a central role in Forest’s midfield structure. His ability to break up opposition attacks and recycle possession has made him a valuable component of the team’s tactical setup.

Sangaré’s performances have not gone unnoticed. Several Premier League clubs have reportedly monitored the midfielder in recent seasons, recognising his ability to combine strength with technical composure.

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Man United are planning to rebuild their midfield

Man United’s interest in Sangaré shows an effort to reinforce the midfield department.

The club has been evaluating options capable of providing defensive stability while also supporting younger midfield talents already within the squad.

United’s recruitment team is believed to be exploring a variety of profiles for the position.

Alongside Sangaré, reports have also linked the club with his Nottingham Forest teammate Elliot Anderson, who has impressed with his creativity and energy in midfield.

The pursuit of Sangaré would likely be part of a wider strategy aimed at strengthening depth and balance within the squad as United aim to compete more consistently at the top level.

The signing of midfielder at Old Trafford is also linked with the impending departure of Casemiro who is set to move at the end of the season.

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The post Man United consider move for 28-year-old midfielder who has impressed scouts this season appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal may reportedly have cooled their interest in the potential transfer of Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali.

The Gunners were notably linked with the Italy international in January, but there is now growing uncertainty about a possible move.

That’s according to a surprise report from the Chronicle, which states that Arsenal did not mention Tonali’s name in recent transfer meetings, with the north London giants possibly set to only have £40m to spend this summer.

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That’s good news for Newcastle as it boosts their hopes of keeping Tonali, but Arsenal fans will surely be concerned if that’s really the kind of budget their club will be working with.

Sandro Tonali transfer doesn’t look ideal for Arsenal anyway

Using CaughtOffside’s own Transfer Fit rating system, we recently showed that Tonali doesn’t look a good fit for Arsenal at the moment anyway, primarily due to how expensive he’d be, whilst also taking into account what Mikel Arteta already has in that area of his squad.

Tonali is a fine player, but if AFC are going to spend big on a new midfield signing, then he would need to be someone who’d represent an obvious upgrade on Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi.

For all his qualities, Tonali doesn’t really look like that, nor is he someone who’d be happy with a place on the bench in most games.

Arsenal to sell before they can buy?

Arsenal’s budget issues follow a busy summer last year when they brought in Eberechi Eze, Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, Zubimendi, and other major signings to bolster both their starting XI and squad depth.

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It’s perhaps not too surprising that the club are now a bit more limited with what they can spend, and that sales might need to happen before further new arrivals can join.

Our understanding is that Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli are two big names who could be likely to leave the Emirates Stadium to raise funds this summer.

The post U-turn: Report reveals surprise outcome of recent Arsenal transfer meetings appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham Hotspur could be prepared to part ways with Cristian Romero this summer as the club begins planning a major squad overhaul.

According to The Daily Telegraph, Spurs are open to listening to offers for the Argentine centre-back amid growing interest from Atlético Madrid.

Tottenham are navigating one of their most difficult seasons in recent years.

With the club struggling in the lower half of the Premier League table and uncertainty surrounding the long-term managerial situation, senior figures behind the scenes are reportedly preparing for a significant rebuilding phase that could stretch across the next three transfer windows.

Romero, despite being one of Tottenham’s most recognisable defenders, is believed to be among the players whose futures may be reconsidered as part of that restructuring process.

Romero has been individually successful at Tottenham

The Argentina international has been known for his physical style of play, strong tackling, and ability to step out of defence to intercept opposition attacks.

At his best, Romero has been a central pillar of Tottenham’s back line and a key figure in Argentina’s international success, including their 2022 World Cup triumph and subsequent international campaigns.

However, Tottenham’s inconsistent defensive performances this season have led the club to reassess several areas of the squad.

While Romero remains highly regarded for his qualities, Spurs may be willing to consider offers if it helps fund a rebuilding project.

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Atletico Madrid are not the only club interested

Atlético Madrid are reportedly among the clubs most interested in Romero’s situation.

The Spanish side have long valued defenders with the kind of intensity and defensive aggression that characterise the Argentine’s playing style.

Under Diego Simeone, Atlético have traditionally built their identity around strong defensive organisation and physicality.

For Atlético, the opportunity to sign a defender already proven in elite European competitions could represent a valuable addition to their squad as they plan for the next phase of their project.

Real Madrid are also interested in a move for the Spurs defender and could be involved in a transfer battle with their city rivals.

Los Blancos could launch a €100m move for the Premier League defender.

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The post Tottenham consider the sale of team leader as Euro giants make serious push for his signature appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Real Madrid are closely monitoring the future of Manchester City midfielder Rodri as uncertainty continues to surround his contract situation at the Etihad Stadium.

According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, speaking on the Here We Go Podcast, the Spanish giants are keeping a close eye on developments as the midfielder approaches a pivotal moment in his career.

Rodri’s current deal with Manchester City is approaching its final stages, with the 29-year-old expected to make an important decision about his future in the coming months.

If he chooses not to extend his contract this summer, he will enter the final year of his agreement with the Premier League champions, a situation that could open the door to a potential transfer.

Rodri’s importance at Man City

Rodri has become one of the most influential players in Pep Guardiola’s system.

Widely regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in world football, the Spanish international plays a crucial role in controlling the tempo of matches and protecting City’s back line.

Rodri’s ability to dictate play with precise passing, combined with his positional intelligence and defensive awareness, has made him indispensable to Guardiola’s tactical approach.

Over the past several seasons, he has been a central figure in City’s domestic dominance, helping the club secure multiple Premier League titles as well as their historic UEFA Champions League triumph.

Beyond his defensive responsibilities, Rodri has also delivered decisive moments in attack, often scoring crucial goals in high-pressure matches.

Rodri’s honours at Man City

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Real Madrid are planning to rebuild their midfield

Real Madrid’s interest in Rodri comes as part of a broader effort to reshape their midfield following the departure of long-time leader Luka Modrić, who joined AC Milan last year.

The Spanish club has been gradually transitioning to a new generation of midfielders, combining experienced players with emerging talent.

Rodri’s profile fits perfectly with this strategy. His experience at the highest level, combined with his tactical discipline and leadership qualities, make him an appealing candidate to anchor Real Madrid’s midfield in the coming years.

Man City are likely to push hard to retain one of their most important players, but Real Madrid’s interest ensures the situation will be closely watched across Europe.

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Senior figures at Chelsea have reportedly decided that Liam Delap is not going to be allowed to leave this summer as they’re confident he can turn his Blues career around.

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Delap joined Chelsea from Ipswich Town last summer and has not made the best start to life at Stamford Bridge, with just two goals in 28 appearances in all competitions so far.

Still, it seems Chelsea remain confident that the 23-year-old will come good and mainly blame injury problems for his disappointing debut campaign, according to Sky Sports, as cited by the Daily Mirror.

Chelsea fans will likely have mixed feelings about this Delap transfer update, as he’s looked out of his depth so far but perhaps deserves a bit more time to develop and improve.

Mixed reports over Liam Delap’s Chelsea future as Man United still keen on transfer

Delap continues to be eyed by Manchester United, as we recently reported, with the Red Devils having notably been keen on the England Under-21 international before he joined Chelsea.

It may be that Delap will come good, but CFC supporters will be desperate to see their club prioritising players that can make an impact straight away.

At the same time, however, it would undoubtedly be a big blow if the west London giants allowed Delap to join a rival like Man Utd and he ended up flourishing there.

Chelsea’s striker curse continues

Chelsea fans will be optimistic about Joao Pedro’s form this season, but for the most part they continue to really struggle when it comes to signing strikers.

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Delap has flopped, just as Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku did in recent times, while going further back they have also brought in big names like Romelu Lukaku, Alvaro Morata, Radamel Falcao, and Gonzalo Higuain, only to find them performing well below expectations.

Building around Pedro is now surely what Chelsea need to focus on, and Delap could therefore still be a decent squad player or backup, but some fans will also question the logic of keeping someone who just seems to have found this move too big a step up.

The post Senior figures make decision on Chelsea star amid Man United transfer interest appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Neymar found himself back in the spotlight as his chances of returning to the Brazil national team grew significantly, only for the forward to sit out Santos‘ game against Mirassol FC with Carlo Ancelotti watching from the stands. The 34-year-old broke his silence in the aftermath, dismissing speculation about a fresh injury with a blunt message: “Nothing is going on.“

With key forwards Rodrygo and Estêvão both sidelined through injury, Ancelotti found his attacking options considerably depleted. The Italian coach responded by adding Neymar to his preliminary list of pre-selected players for Brazil‘s upcoming double-header of friendlies against France and Croatia, a move that would have marked the forward’s return to the national team after more than two years away.

However, Santos and the player reached a mutual decision to rest Neymar for the Mirassol game, a call that has reportedly put his national team comeback at serious risk. Both the CBF and Ancelotti’s staff had been closely monitoring the situation, and his absence from Tuesday night’s fixture caught the parties off guard and caused considerable frustration.

Ancelotti had made the trip to São Paulo specifically to attend the game at the Maião stadium and assess Neymar’s fitness ahead of a potential call-up. Although the Brazil head coach was spotted by cameras entering the ground, he left without having seen the player he came to watch, redirecting his attention toward other potential candidates in the squad.

Neymar addressed the injury rumors

Santos have maintained that Neymar is not injured, despite his inability to take part in tactical training sessions until last Sunday, which led both parties to agree on resting him for the Mirassol fixture. Even so, reports quickly surfaced claiming the forward, who had completed the full 90 minutes in each of his last two appearances, had suffered yet another setback that would rule him out of the March call-up.

Hours before kickoff on Tuesday, Neymar took to his Instagram stories to set the record straight: “Since there are so many people creating theories about what’s going on with me: nothing is going on. If I play through an injury, like they said last year, I’m wrong. If I look out for myself, I’m wrong. If I rest, I’m wrong. If I play with pain or something that could get worse, I’m wrong. It’s a mess, isn’t it? It’s very hard to win, man. It’s very hard, very hard to please everyone.“

The Santos icon then turned his sights on the media for what he described as fabricated narratives. “What surprises me most—actually, it doesn’t surprise me—is the people. These people who act like they are by my side every day and start inventing stories, saying these things as if they were the absolute truth, as if they were always right. It’s very complicated being me, goodness. I really have to have the patience to put up with you guys, you know?,” Neymar concluded.

With the Mirassol game now behind him, Neymar’s last remaining opportunity to make a case for himself comes in Santos’ Brasileirão fixture against Corinthians on Sunday the 15th. The final squad list for the March window is set to be released the following day, and while members of Brazil’s coaching staff are expected to be in attendance, Ancelotti himself will not be present. It may be Neymar’s final chance to force his way back into the Seleção picture.

Bayern Munich put one foot in the Champions League quarter-finals as Michael Olise starred for the Bundesliga leaders in their 6-1 first-leg victory over Atalanta in the last 16. Olise scored twice and grabbed an assist as Bayern ran riot at New Balance Arena, with Josip Stanisic, Serge Gnabry, Nicolas Jackson and Jamal Musiala also […]

The post Atalanta 1-6 Bayern Munich: Olise plays starring role in first-leg thrashing appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Atalanta 1-6 Bayern Munich: Olise plays starring role in first-leg thrashing appeared first on Soccer News.

Antonin Kinsky endured a Champions League debut to forget as his two errors saw Tottenham lose 5-2 in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie with Atletico Madrid. Kinsky made two mistakes and conceded three goals in the opening 15 minutes at the Metropolitano, before being substituted for Guglielmo Vicario just two […]

The post Atletico Madrid 5-2 Tottenham: Kinsky´s nightmare Champions League debut gives Tudor´s team work to appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Atletico Madrid 5-2 Tottenham: Kinsky´s nightmare Champions League debut gives Tudor´s team work to appeared first on Soccer News.

Match Overview

After a dominant opening-round showing against Real España, Los Angeles FC enters its next test riding strong momentum and looking every bit like a contender to reach the tournament’s final stages. The MLS side now meets Liga Deportiva Alajuelense.

The Costa Rican giant is known for its international pedigree and ability to challenge favored opponents, setting the stage for a compelling clash between LAFC’s high-powered form and Alajuelense’s experience—so make sure you don’t miss what promises to be an exciting matchup.

Raffaele Palladino admits that the difference in quality of players is the main reason behind Atalanta’s 6-1 hammering by Bayern Munich in the Champions League, but insists that he would stick with the same system if he were to hypothetically play the same game again.

Atalanta were thumped 6-1 on home soil by a dominant and ruthless Bayern side in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie in Bergamo on Tuesday night: Josip Stanisic, Michael Olise, Serge Gnabry, Nicolas Jackson, Jamal Musiala and Mario Pasalic with the goals. 

• Read more: Atalanta 1-6 Bayern Munich: Player ratings!

Click here to see how the action unfolded on the Football Italia Liveblog.

Palladino reacts to Atalanta 6-1 Bayern Munich 

Atalanta were vastly outclassed by their Bundesliga opponents on the night, but Palladino insists that his players will learn from this experience and become better as players and as a team because of it. 

“Firstly let’s congratulate Bayern. A very strong team, at times they were truly unplayable,” Palladino told Sky Sport Italia after full-time. “For us, the best player was our fans. I want to thank them. They cheered us on until the very end despite the defeat.

“It’s an experience that will make us grow. I would go about it in the same way if we were to play again. If we got here, to the semi-finals of the Coppa Italia and are fighting in the league, it’s because of the mentality and therefore I would play like this again.”

Atalanta will be hoping to bounce back in Serie A this weekend, but they face another tough task there with a trip to San Siro to take on league leaders Inter on Saturday. 

“The team has always reacted well to defeats and we will react as early as Saturday,” said Palladino. “We’re facing a strong team again in Inter, but I’ve told the team that they have to accept the result and recover their energy.”

And returning to the topic of the Bayern defeat, Palladino said: “We dropped off in the second half. They dribble at you and have these incredibly strong wingers. They’re a team that’s destined to go all the way, but having said that, I’m happy with the team, which sweated until the end. And again, I’d like to thank the fans.” 

Palladino insists that he will not move away from Atalanta’s man-to-man system, even if it was part of their downfall against Bayern. 

“We expected them to put us in a difficult spot, with their strong players up front and their attacks from deep. We accept their qualities and strengths. We’ve come this far because we’ve had this mentality and we won’t change that. We won’t defend zonally, we accept the result and either we win or we learn.

“I’ve never seen players with these qualities, They really impressed me. They always gave it to players on their preferred foot and at the right speed. You can try and play deep, but they will still hurt you all the same.

“We had four big absences, we didn’t have many players up front and we preferred to stay the same after the game against Udinese over the weekend.

“We were never able to restart properly. They had aggression and immediately won the ball back. We’ve come this far because we have this mentality after beating Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund. Aside from the system, the difference is in the players.”

Lamine Yamal scored a penalty with the last kick of the game to snatch Barcelona a 1-1 draw with Newcastle United in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie. Harvey Barnes thought he had gifted Newcastle a slender advantage to take to Camp Nou next week, but Malick Thiaw gifted Barcelona a […]

The post Newcastle United 1-1 Barcelona: Yamal salvages draw with last kick of the game appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Newcastle United 1-1 Barcelona: Yamal salvages draw with last kick of the game appeared first on Soccer News.

Cristiano Ronaldo recently saw Al Nassr‘s AFC Champions League Two games against Al Wasl postponed due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. With the schedule now being reorganized, the Portuguese star and his club have learned when the rescheduled clashes against the UAE side will take place.

Al Nassr had been set to face Al Wasl in the competition’s quarterfinals, with the first leg scheduled in Dubai on March 4 and the return leg in Riyadh on the 11th. The AFC moved to postpone all international fixtures in the region at the height of the unrest, and with conditions stabilizing, the confederation has now confirmed the new dates.

The AFC has officially announced the rescheduled fixtures, with Al Nassr and Al Wasl now set to meet on Tuesday, April 7 for the first leg, and Tuesday, April 14 for the second. Ronaldo and the rest of the region’s stars can now look ahead to a return to continental action next month.

Although Al Nassr’s next SPL fixture falls on Saturday, March 14, the AFC opted to push the rescheduled games to early April. The decision accounts for the March international window, which will see players depart for national team duty from late March through the start of April.

Will Cristiano Ronaldo feature against Al Wasl?

Ronaldo has been sidelined since sustaining a hamstring injury in late February against Al Fayha, missing Al Nassr’s most recent game against Neom SC and set to sit out the upcoming fixture against Al Khaleej Club as well. The original quarterfinal schedule would almost certainly have ruled him out of both legs against Al Wasl, but the postponement has given him a realistic chance of featuring in the rescheduled clashes.

With Ronaldo also targeting a return in time to be considered for Roberto Martínez’s Portugal squad before the March announcement, the new April dates offer a more favorable timeline. Fabrizio Romano has reported that his absence is expected to last up to four weeks, meaning a return to action in early April is plausible, albeit without much match fitness at that stage.

Ronaldo has featured in just one AFC Champions League Two game this season for Al Nassr, appearing in the final group stage match against Al Zawraa, as the competition has understandably taken a back seat to the Saudi Pro League in the club’s priorities. However, with the team now into the later stages of the tournament, having their star striker available could prove decisive in Al Nassr’s bid to finally claim their first official trophy under Ronaldo.

The physical condition of Kylian Mbappe has been Real Madrid’s main concern for months, considering the impact he has on the field. The France national team, meanwhile, is closely monitoring every step of the forward’s recovery, hoping he will arrive in top shape for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 27-year-old striker has missed three consecutive matches for Real Madrid while trying to recover from a knee injury. With the UEFA Champions League round-of-16 clash against Manchester City approaching, Alvaro Arbeloa shared an optimistic update regarding Mbappe’s recovery.

“He is much better. It is something to take day by day. This whole week has been very positive, he has returned with great sensations and every day he is better. We are expecting him back very soon,” the coach said on Tuesday. However, that optimism reportedly clashes with the more cautious stance of France.

“While Real Madrid are pushing to have him available as soon as possible, the French federation insist he should not rush his recovery and risk a more serious injury that could compromise his participation in the World Cup next summer,” reports Sport.

For that reason, in fact, Didier Deschamps decided he will not include the striker in the squad for the March friendlies against Brazil and Colombia in the United States. Mbappe will still travel anyway, according to reports, to fulfill commercial commitments with the France national team.

Mbappe’s injury has been ongoing

Kylian Mbappe’s knee problems began in the final days of 2025 and started affecting Real Madrid’s day-to-day plans in early January. In fact, the striker missed the first match of the year against Real Betis in La Liga because of that issue, and in the following days he was also absent from a match in the Spanish Super Cup and another in the Copa del Rey.

After that, Mbappe played several games for Los Blancos in which, although it was clear the physical issue limited him, he still showed his quality with important goals that helped keep the team alive in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.

However, starting with the second leg of the European competition’s playoff tie against Benfica, the French striker was ultimately ruled out of Arbeloa’s plans, and the same happened in the last two La Liga matches. Adding more drama to the situation, Kylian decided to seek medical advice outside Real Madrid’s team of specialists.

The World Cup is getting closer

All of this is happening with the 2026 FIFA World Cup drawing ever closer. Just over three months separate France from their debut in the tournament against Senegal on June 16, leaving a narrow window for players to reach peak fitness.

At this point, France know that an injury to Mbappe during the final stretch of the 2025–26 season with Real Madrid could ultimately rule him out of the World Cup, which would be a major blow to the national team’s chances.

The race for the Saudi Pro League title and the Golden Boot has intensified dramatically in recent weeks, placing global superstars Cristiano Ronaldo and Ivan Toney at the center of the spotlight. As Al-Nassr and Al-Ahli battle for domestic dominance, the two prolific forwards are also competing for the league’s top-scorer award.

Recent developments, however, have added a surprising twist to the race. While Toney’s goal-scoring exploits have pushed him ahead in the Golden Boot standings, a controversial incident following a high-profile derby has suddenly placed his availability for an upcoming crucial match in doubt. If the situation develops further, it could unexpectedly benefit Ronaldo, both in the title chase and his pursuit of another historic scoring milestone.

The latest chapter in this rivalry unfolded during the heated Jeddah Derby between Al-Ahli and Al-Ittihad Club at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium. Al-Ahli secured a convincing 3-1 victory, a result that temporarily pushed the club to the top of the league standings. The match began with an early breakthrough from Toney, who calmly finished from close range after a dangerous attacking move orchestrated by Brazilian winger Galeno.

The English striker’s goal gave Matthias Jaissle’s side momentum in the derby clash. Although Al-Ittihad briefly equalized when Fabinho converted a penalty following a foul on Steven Bergwijn, Al-Ahli quickly regained control. Former Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez restored the lead with a clinical strike before substitute Feras Al-Buraikan sealed the victory late in the match.

Beyond the derby bragging rights, the match also produced a major individual milestone. Toney’s goal took his tally to 24 league goals this season, strengthening his position at the top of the Golden Boot standings. In comparison, Ronaldo currently sits on 22 goals, meaning the Portuguese icon trails his rival with just nine matches remaining in the campaign.

The controversy that could change everything

Despite Toney’s success on the pitch, the story took a surprising turn after the derby victory. Following the match, Al-Ittihad filed an official complaint with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), requesting disciplinary action against the Al-Ahli striker.

According to reports, the complaint alleges that Toney performed an indecent celebration during the Jeddah Derby, directing gestures toward Al-Ittihad supporters in the stands. The club has asked the league’s Disciplinary and Ethics Committee to apply penalties under Article 1/72 of the competition’s regulations.

If the complaint is upheld, Toney could face a suspension of at least six matches, with potential sanctions extending even further depending on the investigation’s outcome. Such a ban would have enormous consequences, not only for Al-Ahli’s title ambitions but also for the Golden Boot race.

What it means for Ronaldo

If Toney is suspended, he could miss the upcoming showdown against Al-Nassr on April 28, a match that may prove decisive in both the championship race and the scoring charts. For Ronaldo, that scenario could open the door to regain the lead in the Golden Boot standings during the final stretch of the season.

Interestingly, the situation remains uncertain. Reports suggest that the referee’s official match report did not include any note regarding inappropriate behavior, which could complicate the case against Toney. According to the Saudi newspaper Al-Riyadiyah, the absence of such details may weaken the disciplinary complaint. Nevertheless, the federation has already requested a formal response from Al-Ahli as part of the investigation process.

The future of Christian Pulisic at international level could soon intersect with major changes in European club soccer, as Mauricio Pochettino, the head coach of the United States men’s national soccer team, finds himself linked with one of the biggest jobs in the game. Reports suggest that Real Madrid have included the Argentine manager on a shortlist of candidates as the club prepares for potential changes on the bench ahead of next season.

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, a tournament the United States will co-host, Pochettino’s leadership will be crucial for stars like Pulisic. Yet speculation surrounding the coach’s future continues to grow, particularly as Madrid considers replacing Alvaro Arbeloa. During a recent interview, Pochettino addressed the rumors but offered a cryptic response that has only fueled intrigue about his next move.

According to ESPN, Real Madrid has begun evaluating the managerial market as the club anticipates significant structural changes this summer. The Spanish giant promoted Arbeloa to the first-team role earlier this year following the departure of Xabi Alonso, but the appointment was never considered a long-term solution by many within the club.

Its sources suggest Arbeloa’s future remains uncertain despite his strong reputation from working with the club’s academy. While he is respected at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, performances during his early months in charge have been inconsistent.

Pochettino emerges as serious candidate

As Madrid explores alternatives, Pochettino has emerged as one of the most highly regarded options within the club hierarchy. According to ESPN, Real Madrid has placed the Argentine coach on a shortlist of potential replacements as they evaluate candidates for their next sporting project.

The Argentine manager has built an impressive resume across Europe. He previously coached Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea, managing some of the biggest stars in world soccer. His greatest achievement arguably came with Tottenham, where he led the club to the 2019 UEFA Champions League final.

Madrid’s interest may also be influenced by his past experience working with Kylian Mbappe during his time at PSG. The two spent two seasons together in Paris and won three trophies: Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the French Super Cup.

What did Pochettino say?

When asked about the possibility of managing Real Madrid, Pochettino did not dismiss the rumors outright. Instead, he delivered a philosophical response that has drawn significant attention across the soccer world.

Speaking to El Chiringuito, Pochettino said: “Well, everything in its time; timing in football is what always determines the course. Football will take you where it wants to, not where one wants.” The eight-word remark — “Football will take you where it wants to” — reflects the Argentine’s belief that soccer careers often follow unexpected paths.

While the statement does not confirm any negotiations, it also leaves the door open for a potential move in the future. For now, Pochettino remains focused on his current project with the United States national team as preparations intensify for the 2026 World Cup.

The signing of James Rodriguez by Minnesota United was one of the most high-profile moves in Major League Soccer ahead of the 2026 season, considering the star status he carries. However, the Colombian midfielder has yet to make his official debut, something that now appears close to happening.

Rodriguez missed the team’s first three matches of the season. In Minnesota United’s opener against Austin FC, he had only been with the team for a few days and was not even included in the squad. For the second match, against FC Cincinnati, he was on the bench but coach Cameron Knowles surprisingly chose not to give him any minutes. And last week, a minor physical issue prevented James from being considered for the match against Nashville SC.

Now, however, everything appears to be in place for the former Real Madrid star to make his official MLS debut. “Next weekend I play on Sunday,” Rodriguez announced this week during an interview with streamer Pelicanger.

“Are you making your debut this Sunday already? Against who?” the interviewer asked, to which the 34-year-old midfielder responded confidently: “Yes, with the grace of God. Against (Thomas) Muller’s team. I don’t know what it’s called. Vancouver, I think. It’s nice here.”

Indeed, Minnesota United’s next match will be against the Vancouver Whitecaps on Matchday 4 of the MLS season. The game will be played on Sunday, March 15 at 4:30 PM (ET) at BC Place in Vancouver. It will be a tough challenge for The Loons, who have recorded one win, one loss and one draw so far in the tournament, and will face a team that has won its first three matches.

When was the last official match played by James Rodriguez?

James Rodriguez’s debut with Minnesota United will be an important moment for MLS, which will finally have one of the league’s biggest stars on the field. However, it remains unclear which version of the Colombian midfielder will appear in Vancouver.

Rodriguez has not played a single minute so far in 2026 and is approaching four months without an official match. At club level, he last played on November 9, 2025, in a Liga MX clash between Leon and Puebla FC. He later took part in the FIFA international break with Colombia, where he started two friendlies against New Zealand and Australia, the latter on November 19.