Cristiano Ronaldo will once again take center stage as his club prepares for another decisive Saudi Pro League clash, but this time the spotlight extends beyond soccer. The league leader, Al-Nassr, arrives in strong form, fresh from a commanding victory that reinforced its position at the top of the table. With momentum building and the title race tightening, every match now carries added weight for the club chasing silverware.

Al-Nassr continues to push forward with confidence after securing an emphatic 5-2 win in the previous round. That result helped the club maintain its lead at the top of the standings with 70 points, two clear of its closest rival Al-Hilal and four clear of third-placed Al-Ahli, underlining its consistency during the most critical stretch of the season.

The club has shown attacking sharpness and control in recent weeks, a combination that has allowed it to stay ahead in a fiercely competitive campaign. With only a handful of matches remaining, maintaining this rhythm is essential to keep its advantage intact.

The upcoming fixture against Al-Okhdood is not simply another match on the calendar. While the focus remains on securing three points, there is an added emotional dimension that sets this game apart from the rest. Supporters, players, and observers alike are aware that something different is expected to unfold in the stadium.

The hidden gesture revealed

According to journalist Salem Al Kulaib on X (formerly Twitter), Al-Okhdood supporters are planning to chant Cristiano Ronaldo’s name in the 7th minute of the game as a tribute to the iconic number he has worn throughout his career.

This gesture is intended as a mark of respect for the Portuguese star and his influence since arriving in the Saudi Pro League. The decision reflects how Ronaldo’s presence has transcended club rivalries, earning admiration even from opposing supporters. It is a rare moment in modern soccer where competition briefly gives way to appreciation.

Why Ronaldo commands such respect

Ronaldo’s impact in Saudi Arabia has extended far beyond goals and statistics. His arrival elevated the league’s global profile, attracting attention, investment, and other high-profile players to the competition.

Fans across the country have embraced his influence, recognizing the role he has played in transforming the perception of Saudi soccer. His performances on the pitch, combined with his global stature, have made him a central figure in the league’s evolution.

One of the most intriguing matchups in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals is the clash between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. In the first leg at Camp Nou, Los Colchoneros went in front thanks to a brilliant goal from Julian Alvarez.

It is a showdown between two of Spain’s giants, who have faced each other in crucial matchups across multiple competitions this season. In La Liga, Los Blaugranas hold the edge and, in fact, took a major step toward the title by defeating Atletico Madrid over the weekend. That result served as a measure of revenge after Atletico Madrid knocked them out in the Copa del Rey semifinals.

On Wednesday, the match remained level until just minutes before halftime, with both teams creating scoring chances—especially the hosts. However, the deadlock was broken when VAR intervened, prompting referee Istvan Kovacs to upgrade a yellow card shown to Pau Cubarsi to a red.

From that foul on the edge of the box came the moment that changed the match. Julian Alvarez, who had drawn the foul, stepped up and delivered a superb free kick, curling his shot into the top-left corner past Joan Garcia, who had no chance to stop it.

* Developing story

Cristiano Ronaldo is watching developments closely as Al-Nassr navigates an off-field controversy involving teammate Abdullah Al-Hamdan. The club has received a favorable ruling in a dispute that has drawn attention across the Saudi Pro League, but the situation remains layered with uncertainty.

The case, centered on Al-Hamdan’s transfer, has sparked debate about regulations and player rights. While a decision has been reached, the story is far from fully resolved.

The issue began when Al-Hilal filed a formal complaint against Abdullah Al-Hamdan following his move to Al-Nassr during the winter transfer window. Al-Hilal argued that the striker had unilaterally terminated his contract without valid justification, describing the action as a breach of league regulations.

Saudi newspaper Arriyadiyah indicated that Al-Hamdan informed Al-Hilal of his contract termination just days before its official expiration. This timing allowed him to complete a free transfer to Al-Nassr, a move that immediately triggered legal scrutiny. “Al-Hilal had filed an official complaint… protesting the player’s unilateral termination of his contract during the winter transfer window,” the report noted.

Official decision rejects the complaint

After reviewing the case, the Professionalism and Players’ Status Committee of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) delivered its verdict. The committee accepted the complaint in form but rejected it in substance, effectively clearing Al-Hamdan of wrongdoing.

It also dismissed Al-Hilal’s request to impose penalties under Article 62 of the professional regulations. The reasoning was procedural, as the complaint was filed before the matter had been taken to the appropriate legal authority for contract disputes.

According to Arriyadiyah’s latest update, the committee rejected the complaint based on the merits of the case and procedural grounds, reinforcing the legitimacy of the decision.

The catch: Legal battle far from over

Despite the ruling, the situation carries an important twist. Al-Hilal’s management is preparing to file an official appeal and may escalate the case to higher legal bodies, including the Dispute Resolution Chamber.

This move keeps the controversy alive and opens the door for further legal examination. The possibility of escalation means the case could extend beyond domestic committees and into more complex arbitration processes.

Saudi journalist Abdullah Al-Hanyan suggested on X (formerly Twitter) that Al-Hilal believes it holds strong documentation to support its position. This determination signals that the dispute could continue to shape headlines in the coming weeks.

Al-Hamdan’s impact on the pitch

While the legal process unfolds, Abdullah Al-Hamdan has continued to contribute on the field for Al-Nassr. The striker has made 10 appearances, scoring four goals and providing one assist, showing his value to the squad.

His performances have helped reinforce the club’s attacking options during a crucial period of the season, especially in Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence. This on-field impact adds another layer to the case, as the player remains central to Al-Nassr’s ambitions.

Benjamin Pavard’s loan spell at Marseille is set to end without a permanent transfer, with RMC Sport reporting that the French club have decided against triggering their purchase option for the World Cup winner.

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The Frenchman returned to his home country last summer on loan from Inter with considerable fanfare, expected to bring experience, leadership and defensive reliability to a Marseille side with genuine ambitions.

Instead, his campaign has fallen well short of expectations on multiple fronts.

According to reports from France, via FCInter1908, Pavard has failed to meet the standards demanded of him in terms of both performance and attitude, becoming, in the eyes of many supporters, a symbol of the club’s broader frustrations this season.

Marseille rule out permanent move for Inter owned Pavard

The situation has deteriorated to the point where Marseille have apparently ruled out a permanent move even at a reduced fee, despite having the option to negotiate a lower buyout figure with Inter.

The final decision may ultimately rest with incoming leadership at the club, but the current direction of travel leaves little room for doubt.

Pavard will therefore return to Inter at the end of the season, where his future will need to be resolved.

With the Nerazzurri already planning a significant summer overhaul, including changes in defence following the expected departures of several out-of-contract players, where Pavard fits into Cristian Chivu’s plans, if at all, remains an open question.

Another loan move looks the most likely outcome, though finding a club willing to take on a player whose stock has fallen considerably during his time in Ligue 1 may prove more difficult than anticipated.

Aston Villa head coach Unai Emery and defender Matty Cash faced the media on Wednesday evening ahead of Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final first leg at the Renato Dall’Ara, with both manager and player showing considerable respect for a Bologna side they have faced before, and know better than to underestimate.

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Emery arrived in Bologna with his squad boosted by the returns of John McGinn and Youri Tielemans from injury, providing additional options for a tie the Spaniard described as one of the most difficult Villa could face at this stage of the competition.

The extended break following the international window has been used productively, though Emery acknowledged the challenge of resetting players mentally after time away with their national teams.

Jadon Sancho remains sidelined and will not feature, with the manager hopeful of his return within a fortnight.

Bologna vs Aston Villa – Emery: ‘Bologna aggressive, great respect for them’

On Bologna themselves, the Aston Villa coach’s admiration was genuine and detailed.

“They beat Roma and Vincenzo Italiano has played three finals in the last three years,” he said, via TuttoMercatoWeb.

“He is very good in knockout matches, he reached two European finals with Fiorentina and won the Coppa Italia. I have great respect for Bologna and I know very well what the difficulties will be.”

He also credited the continuity of the club’s footballing identity, noting that quality football has been a constant at the Dall’Ara from the Thiago Motta era through to the present day.

On the tactical challenge of facing Bologna’s aggressive man-marking system, Emery was pragmatic.

“In Italy many teams play this way, Atalanta were among the first,” he said. “It will be very important for us to adapt to their aggression while maintaining our own style. The qualification chances are 50-50. We must be resilient when they press us and patient when we don’t have the ball.”

Cash, speaking separately, offered a more concise but equally respectful assessment. The Polish international noted his personal connection to the opposition, having spoken with his compatriot Skorupski despite the goalkeeper’s injury absence.

“They are an excellent team, after we beat them they did not lose again,” Cash said, via TMW. “So it will not be easy.”

His message for the tie itself was straightforward. “There are 180 minutes and anything can happen. Our objective is to win and put ourselves in an advantageous position for the second leg.”

Paolo Vanoli held his pre-match press conference ahead of Thursday’s Europa Conference League quarter-final first leg at Selhurst Park, and the Fiorentina head coach was candid on multiple fronts, confirming Moise Kean’s fitness setback, acknowledging Crystal Palace’s status as favourites, and expressing his pride at the scale of the occasion despite a lengthy injury list.

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Kean has been nursing a long-standing shin problem, and Vanoli confirmed the striker was unable to train on Wednesday after reporting pain in the affected area.

“Moise has been carrying this shin issue for a very long time,” he said, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.

“After yesterday’s training he felt pain and today he was not able to make it.”

The news is a blow for a Fiorentina side already managing several absences ahead of what Vanoli himself described as one of the most demanding spells of the season.

On the injury situation more broadly, Vanoli pushed back against any narrative of crisis.

“I would have liked to arrive here with a full squad because against opponents like this I need everyone,” he said. “But the word ’emergency’ is not in my DNA. It must be an opportunity for those who have played less and for the younger players. If we play as a team we will achieve great results.”

Vanoli has done his homework on Crystal Palace and their manager Oliver Glasner, whom he has followed closely for some time. “Glasner has already proven himself in Europe, his team is organised and you can see his footballing ideas trace back to his days at Salzburg,” he said.

“Now he is managing in the Premier League, the strongest league in the world. I experienced it personally with Chelsea. This must be a source of pride for us after the whole season we have had.”

Crystal Palace vs Fiorentina – Vanoli: ‘They are favourites, we must play with character’

He was equally respectful of the venue itself, describing Selhurst Park as an intimate, atmospheric ground where Palace have built their successes, with 25,000 supporters packed tightly around the pitch.

Asked directly whether he considers Palace favourites, Vanoli did not hesitate.

“Yes, I think so, they are coming off an FA Cup victory.” But he was equally clear that Fiorentina belong on the same stage. “We must play with personality and lucidity. It is a beautiful test and we will measure our growth as a team.”

He also offered an encouraging update on Albert Gudmundsson, noting the Icelandic forward’s growing defensive discipline and competitive reaction to his own mistakes at Verona.

“These reactions are small but important details,” Vanoli said. “We are all growing.”

With the second leg to follow in Florence, Vanoli’s message was clear, the tie is far from over before it has even begun, and Fiorentina intend to make their mark on the European stage.

After delivering an imposing performance against Atalanta, PSG face Liverpool in the 2025–26 Champions League quarterfinals first leg, looking to land a decisive blow. Given their current form, the French side emerges as the clear favorite to take the win. However, the Reds could pull off a surprise, as they have proven to be quite competitive in the tournament, with Mohamed Salah capable of making the difference today.

Liverpool are not having their best season, struggling notably in the Premier League and other domestic competitions. Nevertheless, coach Arne Slot has managed to keep the team highly competitive in the Champions League, finishing among the top sides in the league phase. With it being the only competition they can still win, they could come into today’s match highly motivated.

They not only rely on Salah, but Hugo Ekitike and Dominik Szoboszlai could also make the difference offensively. However, they will face the tough challenge of performing defensively, as Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté are not at their best and could struggle against Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué. Because of this, the contributions of Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister could prove decisive.

Unlike Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain arrive established as one of the best teams in the world. They not only shine offensively but are also solid defensively. In addition, coach Luis Enrique has managed to build a brilliant midfield that dominates and controls the game at will. Alongside this, Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are expected to be decisive in attack, bringing them closer to victory.

FC Barcelona host Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, April 8, in the first leg of their 2025-26 UEFA Champions League quarterfinal tie at Spotify Camp Nou. Stay with us for every moment of this thrilling matchup as we bring you live minute-by-minute coverage throughout the game.

Barcelona head into the match on the back of a 2-1 La Liga victory over these same opponents last Saturday, a result that kept them at the top of the table and extended their unbeaten run to nine games. After falling short against the Colchoneros in the Copa del Rey semifinals, the Blaugrana will be determined to get the better of Atletico in this far more consequential occasion.

Atletico Madrid, on the other hand, are badly out of form after three consecutive defeats against Tottenham Hotspur, Real Madrid and Barcelona. Despite the losing streak, the Colchoneros arrive with a point to prove, still fuming over the refereeing decisions in the last meeting, with the club’s CEO going as far as filing a formal complaint over VAR’s handling of a potential red card for Gerard Martin.

The 2-1 defeat to Bayern Munich at the Santiago Bernabeu left Real Madrid on the brink of elimination in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. Vinicius Junior came under heavy criticism after the match from Rafael van der Vaart.

“Vinicius is horrible,” the former Dutch midfielder said during an appearance on Ziggo Sport following Tuesday’s Champions League match in Spain. “He annoys me to no end when I see him.”

Van der Vaart went on to explain the reasons behind his criticism of the Brazilian winger. “As soon as he gets a little push, he throws himself down, hoping to see a red card for the opponent, and then gets up as if nothing happened,” he said.

However, the former Ajax and Real Madrid player did not hesitate to acknowledge Vinicius’ talent on the field. In fact, he emphasized how that behavior detracts from his ability: “That’s the part that I find sad about him. I find it incredibly sad because he’s a fantastic player.”

Vinicius’ performances this season

Criticism of Vinicius is common, and in most cases it is not related to his performances on the field or his ability on the ball, but rather to his behavior. The 25-year-old winger has often drawn the frustration of opponents, who believe he does not always conduct himself with respect.

However, Vinicius’ on-field production is beyond question, and that is reflected in his numbers. Even in a season in which Real Madrid have posted disappointing results and gone through a coaching change, the Brazilian has stood out: Vinicius has recorded 17 goals and 13 assists in 45 appearances.

Van der Vaart knows what he’s talking about

Criticism of Vinicius Junior coming from Rafael van der Vaart carries added weight compared to most opinions. The former Dutch international speaks from experience, having played for Real Madrid and understanding the club’s culture and its fanbase.

Van der Vaart began his professional career at Ajax in 1999 before moving to Hamburger SV six years later, where his performances prompted Real Madrid to pay around $15 million for him. In Spain, he spent two seasons with the club between 2008 and 2010, making 73 appearances, scoring 12 goals, and winning one title.

Match Overview

After opening their LigaPro campaign in strong form, Deportivo Cuenca now turns its attention to a high-profile continental test, reciving Brazilian giants Santos FC for a must-watch group stage showdown. The Ecuadorian side will look to capitalize on home-field advantage in what shapes up as a challenging first outing against one of South America’s most decorated clubs.

Meanwhile, Santos FC return to international competition eager to bounce back from two underwhelming seasons, with Neymar Jr. leading the charge and aiming to reestablish the club as a legitimate title contender. With both teams bringing momentum and urgency into this opener, expect a tightly contested battle you won’t want to miss.

Weston McKennie has reflected on a remarkable personal journey that has taken him from being cast aside at Juventus to becoming one of Luciano Spalletti’s most trusted and indispensable midfielders, and with a home World Cup on the horizon with the United States, life could hardly look more different from the darkest moments of his career.

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The American, who recently signed a contract renewal at Juventus after establishing himself as a key figure under Spalletti, spoke candidly to Goal about self-doubt, humility and the importance of staying grounded despite achieving things he once considered impossible.

His honesty about the fragility of his early career is striking for a player now operating at the very highest level.

“When I was in the USA youth teams I never would have thought something like this could happen to me,” McKennie said, with quotes via CalcioMercato.

“As a child you get discouraged easily, and every time I was left out of the squad I thought there was no way I could ever make it. I would go back to Dallas, to my family and to FC Dallas, and there they relaunched me, believing in me day after day. That pushed me to improve more and more, to push beyond what I thought was possible. I am grateful for the journey I have taken to get here, I never would have imagined reaching this level.”

McKennie: ‘I’m a human being like everyone else’

That journey has not only shaped him as a footballer but as a public figure, one acutely conscious of the responsibility that comes with being a role model for young American players trying to follow a similar path.

“It is an extraordinary feeling but also a responsibility,” he said. “Back then social media was not so common and my role models were people I saw on TV or in magazines. Today there is much more responsibility.”

What McKennie is most eager for people to take from his story, however, is something more personal than the goals and assists. “I am a good footballer, but above all I am a human being like everyone else,” he said.

“I try to always be faithful to my values and my roots. I wish people saw me as humble, you need to remain humble and follow your dream, finding your own path.”

Away from football, McKennie painted a picture of a man who values simplicity above all else. Barbecues with family, a drink with friends, time with his dogs, the kind of ordinary pleasures that keep him anchored to who he was before the fame.

“I like to enjoy life to the fullest,” he said. “The last six to eight months have been pretty positive, in family life, with friends, and with my dogs.”

Danilo has opened up on one of the most emotional moments of his career, the day his closest friend and long-time teammate Alex Sandro left Juventus, in a heartfelt documentary produced by Flamengo TV ahead of the new Copa Libertadores campaign.

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The Brazilian defender spent several years alongside Alex Sandro at the Turin club, having previously shared dressing rooms at Santos and Porto.

Their bond, forged across three different countries and multiple trophy wins, runs far deeper than football, and Danilo’s words made that abundantly clear.

Danilo reflects on Alex Sandro bond & Juventus exit

“When Alex left Juventus it made me cry on the pitch, because we had fought so many battles together,” Danilo said, with quotes via the Corriere dello Sport.

“When he left I didn’t think it would be that difficult. It was then that I truly felt his absence. Understanding how much we have supported each other during our careers and in difficult moments is something that makes me very satisfied, because it has extended to our personal lives and our families.”

Alex Sandro, speaking in the same documentary, was equally emotional in his tribute to a friendship he describes as lifelong. “We talk every day and share feelings that few people can imagine,” he said.

“For me he has always been a mirror, someone I have always admired enormously. Our story as brothers, friends and teammates will last a lifetime, it won’t end here at Flamengo.”

The two are now reunited once more at the Rio club, with Danilo having returned to Flamengo, the club where he grew up, after his time in Europe. He admitted that winning the Libertadores last season and scoring in the final against Palmeiras would have been the perfect moment to retire at 34, adding that only the unfulfilled dream of a World Cup with Brazil kept him going.

On that front, Danilo had warm words for Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti, whose path has crossed his own in unexpected ways. “When I was at Porto and moved to Real Madrid, it was practically Ancelotti who bought me, and then when I arrived, he had already been sacked,” he said with a smile. “The game is like that. But we found each other again more than ten years later in the national team. It is an enormous privilege to work with him.”

Antonio Conte’s candid declaration of interest in the Italy job following Sunday’s Napoli-Milan match has set in motion a fascinating chain of events that could reshape the managerial landscape across Serie A this summer.

Conte was clear on Sunday evening that he would need to speak with Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis before any decision could be made, given that he still has a year remaining on his contract at the club.

The acknowledgement that he has put himself forward for the national team role makes it difficult to envision him continuing at Napoli beyond this season, though in football, stranger things have happened.

What has emerged in the wake of Conte’s comments is that Napoli had already been quietly exploring their options.

De Zerbi & Italiano among Napoli targets as Conte open to Italy

According to Alfredo Pedulla, the club held conversations with Roberto De Zerbi about a potential move to the Maradona, only for Tottenham to move faster and secure the Brighton manager for themselves.

It is a significant revelation that suggests De Laurentiis had already begun contingency planning well before Conte made his position public.

Vincenzo Italiano remains a name high on Napoli’s list, a long-standing target of De Laurentiis, while Gian Piero Gasperini, despite recent signs of tension at Roma, is tied to the capital club for another two years, making any move complicated.

At Roma, the suggestion that Gasperini could be vulnerable raises wider questions about the club’s direction.

As Pedulla’s report pointedly notes, Roma cannot continue to treat the manager as the primary problem when the issues clearly run deeper, particularly around transfer market strategy and internal alignment, concerns that have been present since at least December.

Massimiliano Allegri, meanwhile, continues to be mentioned as a potential Italy candidate despite recent denials, a situation that could become clearer once Milan’s season reaches its conclusion.

Pascal Struijk could be on his way out of Leeds United at the end of the season.

The 26-year-old central defender has a contract with the Premier League club until 2027, and he could be available for a reasonable amount of money in the summer.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Aston Villa are planning to submit an offer for the Netherlands defender in the summer. Tottenham and Newcastle are lurking in the background as well, and they could look to make a move.

It remains to be seen where the 26-year-old central defender ends up. He has shown his quality in the Premier League, and he could prove a very useful addition to all three clubs. The opportunity to join Aston Villa, Tottenham or Newcastle will be attractive for him. It would be a step up in his career. 

Aston Villa is pushing for Champions League qualification and will look to add more quality and depth to the team if they finish in the top four. Adding more defensive depth could be ideal for them. They have a competitive team and a quality manager. Struijk will certainly fancy the opportunity of playing for them next season. 

On the other hand, Tottenham had a disappointing season, and they will look to bounce back strongly next year. They need quality additions in the summer to tighten up at the back. Struijk could help them defensively if he joins the club. 

As for Newcastle, they need long-term replacements for Dan Burn and Fabian Schar. The Netherlands defender could be the ideal acquisition for them. He is at the peak of his career, and this is the right time for him to take the next step. 

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Stuttgart midfielder Angelo Stiller has been linked with a move to the Premier League in recent months.

According to FussballDaten, Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly interested in securing his signature. The German International midfielder has a contract with Stuttgart until 2028 and includes a €40 million release clause.

However, they have an option to remove the release clause by paying €2 million, and the German club could demand around €65 million for the midfielder in the summer, if they manage to remove his release clause over the next few weeks. Stuttgart view the player as “untouchable”.

The two Premier League clubs are closely monitoring the player and hoping to secure his signature in the summer. Manchester United need a quality replacement for Casemiro, and the 24-year-old German International could be ideal for them. He is excellent at protecting the back four and winning the ball back for his team. He will allow the creative players to operate with more freedom. In addition to his defensive qualities, he is quite accomplished on the ball and has been compared to Toni Kroos. 

It will be interesting to see if Manchester United is willing to break the Bank for him. 

Meanwhile, Liverpool could use more quality and depth in the middle of the park as well. They need a reliable defensive midfielder, and Stiller would be an excellent addition. His arrival will allow Ryan Gravenberch to operate in his natural role. The Netherlands International has been used as a defensive midfielder, but he has struggled in that role. 

Both Premier League clubs could be exciting destinations for the midfielder. It will be interesting to see where he ends up. 

The player is reportedly looking for a salary of around €7-9 million per season. The two Premier League clubs have the financial muscle to accept his demands. It remains to be seen whether they come forward with an official offer in the summer. 

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Despite his unpromising start to the season, Rafael Leão has managed to earn a spot in coach Massimiliano Allegri’s rotation. Nevertheless, the Portuguese’s future at AC Milan is not entirely certain, as his inconsistent performances open the door to a possible departure. In light of this, the 26-year-old winger has reportedly been offered to Hansi Flick’s Barcelona in a $58 million(around €50 million) move in the summer of 2026.

According to Corriere dello Sport, the Rossoneri are open to listening to offers for Rafael Leao. However, the Portuguese would only leave for an offer exceeding $58 million. Although he has a $210 million (around €180 million) release clause, they believe the 26-year-old star has already completed a cycle with the team, making this one of the last opportunities to secure a good transfer fee for his rights, as his contract expires in 2028.

Throughout his career, Leao has been linked with Barcelona, as his agent Jorge Mendes already attempted this move in previous seasons. Given his potential departure from AC Milan, the Blaugrana are closely monitoring a possible move for Rafael, staying in contact with his agent. However, they have not decided to make a move for his signing, waiting until the summer of 2026, reports Diario Sport.

Despite Rafael Leao being a target for the Blaugrana for several seasons, they are not entirely convinced about his signing. The Portuguese has not managed to deliver consistent performances at AC Milan, alternating strong displays with notable dips in form. Additionally, Hansi Flick demands defensive commitment from his wingers, something the 26-year-old winger does not particularly excel at, raising serious doubts.

Report: Barcelona have three top priorities at left wing ahead of Leao

Ahead of the 2026–27 season, Barcelona remain attentive to strengthening the left wing, as Raphinha has been dealing with quite a few physical issues. Given this, the possible departure of Rafael Leão from AC Milan emerges as a strong possibility. Nevertheless, the Blaugrana reportedly maintain three priorities to reinforce this position ahead of the Portuguese.

According to Diario Sport, the Blaugranas are keeping a close eye on the possible continuity of Marcus Rashford. After already fitting in with Hansi Flick, they are evaluating his performances in the final stretch of the season to decide whether to pay the €30 million buy clause. In addition, he is willing to take a salary reduction, opening the door to his permanent stay.

In case that he fails to convince at Barcelona, they have decided to bet on young talent. In this context, the development of Abde Ezzalzouli and Jan Virgili is reportedly being monitored. As academy players, they would have a smooth adaptation to Flick, which is seen as a differential factor. Additionally, the Blaugranas hold 20% of Abde’s future sale and 40% of Virgili’s future sale.

Barcelona host Atletico Madrid in a high-stakes first leg of their 2025-26 UEFA Champions League quarterfinal tie at Spotify Camp Nou. While fans will be hoping to see every available star on the pitch, Raphinha‘s absence from the squad has raised questions ahead of the match.

Raphinha will not feature against Atletico Madrid due to injury. The winger suffered a tear in the biceps femoris of his right leg while representing Brazil in their friendly against France during the March international break on the 26th, and has been sidelined ever since.

The timing could hardly be worse for both the player and the club, with Raphinha expected to be out for a minimum of five weeks. Under that recovery timeline, the Brazilian will miss both legs of the Atletico Madrid tie as well as Barcelona’s next four La Liga fixtures.

According to Mundo Deportivo, head coach Hansi Flick is targeting El Clásico on Sunday, May 10, as the date Raphinha could return to action. Should Barcelona maintain their winning form up to that point, a victory over Real Madrid could clinch the 2025-26 La Liga title with three games to spare, making it a significant moment for the winger to make his comeback.

FIFA to reimburse Barcelona

Currently sitting atop the La Liga table with 76 points and still alive in the Champions League, Raphinha’s injury has prompted Barcelona to direct their frustration toward FIFA. As reported by Diario Sport, the governing body will be compensating the club for the duration of his absence.

Re-elected president Joan Laporta aired his grievances with Món Esport over the situation: “In some way, we should demand that FIFA create an international calendar that takes into account the competitions of the most important clubs. It’s true that when one of your best players gets injured in a friendly match between France and Brazil in the United States, it is very frustrating. The problem is the congested fixture list, especially at this point in the season when we are playing for everything. It is exasperating!”

Under FIFA’s established compensation framework, clubs receive a daily payment of 20,548 euros, applicable for a maximum of 365 days and capped at 7.5 million euros per player. With Raphinha projected to miss approximately five weeks, reports indicate Barcelona stand to receive around 143,836 euros in reimbursement.

Bayern Munich’s 2-1 win over Real Madrid in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals was built, in part, on Manuel Neuer’s performance. That put the veteran goalkeeper back in the spotlight, fueling debate over whether he should return to the Germany national team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“This version of Neuer is world-class; he belongs in the national team,” said legend Lothar Matthaus after the match, according to Marca. He also sent a message to the Germany head coach: “I hope Nagelsmann watched the match. I would love to see Neuer in this kind of form at the World Cup… but I also know that won’t happen. Nagelsmann won’t open that door.”

That push comes nearly two years after Neuer’s retirement from international soccer. He chose to close that chapter of his career following Germany’s elimination from UEFA Euro 2024 in the quarterfinals against Spain.

In that way, the goalkeeper said goodbye to Germany after 15 years, having first been called up in 2009. During that span, he played in four World Cups and four European Championships, and won the sport’s biggest prize at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final. In total, he made 124 international appearances and recorded 54 clean sheets.

“The best players have to go to the World Cup, and Manu is by far the best goalkeeper in the world,” said former star Benedikt Howedes, who was Neuer’s teammate at the 2014 World Cup. Even a current Germany and Bayern Munich player, Aleksandar Pavlovic, shared his view: “I would never say no to Manu, no matter his age. He is still an exceptional goalkeeper.”

What did Neuer say about a possible return to Germany?

Those calls for Manuel Neuer’s return to the Germany national team generated enough speculation that the 40-year-old goalkeeper addressed the topic himself after the match against Real Madrid in the Champions League.

“Everything has already been said about it,” Neuer replied when asked about a potential appearance at the 2026 World Cup. Instead, he chose to focus on his club objectives: “What matters now is finishing the rest of the season with Bayern. I’m enjoying my time with the team, at the club, with the coaching staff. It’s true that I’m 40 years old, but I’m still here.”

How have Germany replaced Neuer?

Since Manuel Neuer’s international retirement, Julian Nagelsmann has been forced to test different options in goal for Germany. Over the past two years, the coach has used three different goalkeepers in official matches and friendlies.

The most-used has been Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann, with a total of 11 appearances. Behind him is Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who has managed just four matches due to injury issues during his time with Barcelona, which have also kept him sidelined at Girona. The third goalkeeper selected by Nagelsmann is Stuttgart’s Alexander Nubel, who has featured in three matches.

Fiorentina are putting in their final preparations ahead of a trip to London to face Crystal Palace in the Conference League on Thursday night, but Paolo Vanoli will have to travel to Selhurst Park without the services of Italy international Moise Kean. 

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Kean ruled out of Crystal Palace vs. Fiorentina

According to the latest updates, Fiorentina will be without three first-team stars due to ongoing injury or fitness concerns. Kean is the headline absentee, song with Fabiano Parisi and Manor Solomon, who will also miss the Crystal Palace clash according to La Gazzetta dello Sport. 

Kean did not train with the rest of the Fiorentina group on Wednesday, and instead carried out an individual session. La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that he is struggling with pain in his tibia, and that he is pushing to be available to face Lazio in Serie A this weekend instead. 

Kean is Fiorentina’s leading goalscorer in both Serie A and across all competitions this season, with eight goals from 26 league outings and 9 goals from 33 appearances including cup competitions. 

Kean recently matched an Italy national team record with his goal in last Thursday’s World Cup play-off defeat against Bosnia and Herzegovina by scoring in six consecutive matches for the Nazionale. He also has eight goals from his last six outings with the Italy national team. 

Bosnia and Herzegovina head coach Sergej Barbarez says that Italy didn’t ‘underestimate us’ ahead of their World Cup play-off final defeat last week, and has expressed his ‘respect’ for former CT Gennaro Gattuso: ‘I thank him’. 

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Bosnia and Herzegovina head coach Barbarez on Gattuso, Italy and Alajbegovic

Barbarez and his Bosnia and Herzegovina squad eliminated Italy on penalties in their World Cup play-off final in Zenica on Thursday evening, which cost the Azzurri a place at the World Cup for the third tournament in a row. 

This is only the second time that Bosnia have managed to qualify for the World Cup following the dissolution of Yugoslavia. Their last appearance at the World Cup came in 2014, the same as Italy. 

“I’m very proud of my team and what they achieved against Italy. Matches like this will always be special,” said Barbarez in an interview with Tuttomercatoweb.

Barbarez insists that Italy did not ‘underestimate’ Bosnia and Herzegovina ahead of the play-off final: “I wouldn’t say they underestimated us. It rarely happens at this level. Italy is an experienced and serious team. We knew we had to be disciplined, focused and courageous, and I think our players showed that on the pitch.”

Barbarez also spoke about Gattuso, who left his position as head coach of the Italy national team a few days after the play-off final defeat in Zenica. 

Gattuso had praised Barbarez’s ability as both a player and coach during his final pre-match press conference in charge of the Nazionale. 

“I appreciate the respect from colleagues of Gattuso’s calibre and I thank him,” said Barbarez, “even though I must admit that our attention was completely focused on preparing the team before the match, so that we could arrive in the best possible way for this meeting.” 

Barbarez also gave his blessing to Bosnia talent Kerim Alajbegovic, who has been linked with several Serie A sides including Milan and Roma ahead of the summer transfer window. 

“Alajbegovic is a young talent with great potential. However, I think the most important thing for him at this stage of his career is to continue to grow in the right environment, to play regularly and grow step by step.”

Chelsea and Newcastle United are interested in signing the AS Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar at the end of the season.

The 26-year-old has been one of the best goalkeepers in European football this season, and he could cost around €50 million, as per SiamoLaRoma. It will be interesting to see if Chelsea or Newcastle follow up on their interest with an official offer to sign the player.

Manchester United and Spurs are also keen on Svilar.

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Chelsea could use Mile Svilar

It is no secret that they need a reliable goalkeeper at the end of the season. Chelsea need to find a quality alternative to Robert Sanchez. The Spanish goalkeeper has been heavily criticised for his inconsistent performances this season. Chelsea need an upgrade on him, and Svilar would be an excellent addition. He has been the best goalkeeper in Italy this season, and he has the quality to succeed in the Premier League.

Svilar is at the peak of his career, and he could sort out the Chelsea goalkeeping situation for the foreseeable future. On the other hand, Newcastle United need a quality long-term replacement for Nick Pope. The goalkeeper is in his 30s, and he will need to be replaced.

Chelsea and Newcastle have the financial muscle to pay €50 million for the AS Roma goalkeeper, and it remains to be seen whether they come forward with an official offer to get the deal done.

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Where will Svilar end up?

The 26-year-old will be excited about the possibility of competing in the Premier League next season. It would be a huge step up in his career, and he could get to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world.

Chelsea could provide him with the platform to fight for trophies. Newcastle have an ambitious project as well. They won the League Cup last season, and they played Champions League football this season. It remains to be seen where Svilar ends up.

The post Chelsea ready to replace error-prone starter with €50m Newcastle target appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool are interested in signing the Hoffenheim winger Bazoumana Toure at the end of the season.

They have been keeping tabs on his progress, and they sent scouts to watch the 20-year-old in action last month (h/t SportWitness). The Ivorian winger has shown tremendous potential, and he could prove to be a quality long-term investment for Liverpool. It is no secret that the defending Premier League champions are looking to add more quality on the flanks.

Toure has two goals and 11 assists in the Bundesliga this season. Arsenal and Manchester United are also keen on him.

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Liverpool could use Bazoumana Toure

Mohamed Salah has announced that he will leave the club in the summer, and the Reds need to fill the void left by the Egyptian. In addition, they have yet to properly replace Luis Diaz, and they need to invest in more than one winger during the summer transfer window.

Toure could be a superb long-term investment for them, and he could develop into a player for the club. He has proven himself in German football, and he has the technical attributes and explosive pace to succeed in the Premier League as well.

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Toure could fancy a Liverpool move

The opportunity to join Liverpool will be exciting for him. They are among the biggest clubs in the world, and they have been competing for major trophies in recent seasons.

This has been a disappointing campaign for them, but they are still very much in the race for Champions League qualification. Any young player will be attracted to the idea of joining them. The player is valued at €40 million, and Liverpool have the resources to afford him. It remains to be seen whether they come forward with an official offer at the end of the season.

The post Scouts sent as Liverpool step up chase for explosive €40m attacker with 11 assists appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Sao Paulo attacker Lucca Marques is a target for Premier League club Arsenal at the end of the season.

The 18-year-old attacker has attracted the attention of the Premier League club, and they are now leading the race for his signature. According to a report from German publication BILD, they will look to secure his signature in the summer. Borussia Dortmund are also keen on Marques.

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Arsenal could use Lucca Marques

They could use more quality and depth in the attacking unit, and the 18-year-old could be a handy option for them in the final third. Although he is a left-sided winger, he is versatile enough to slot into either flank. He will add close control, pace, and unpredictability to the team.

Arsenal have invested in players like Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke at the start of the season. However, both players have been underwhelming. Arsenal needs more cutting-edge in the wide area,s and investing in the talented young Brazilian could be a wise decision.

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Marques would be a future asset

He might not be ready for the Premier League just yet, but he is a talented player with a bright future, and he could be groomed into an important first-team player for the club. It remains to be seen whether Arsenal can negotiate a reasonable deal to sign the player.

Convincing the attacker to join the club will not be difficult. They are among the biggest clubs in the world, and they have an ambitious project. The 18-year-old will be attracted to the idea of joining them.

Regular football in the Premier League could be ideal for his development and accelerate his growth. Arsenal have a rich history of nurturing young players, and they could help him fulfil his potential.

Arsenal to bid for game-changer forward after 10 goals in 12 UCL games this season

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Kai Havertz popped up with a stoppage-time goal to snatch Arsenal a much-needed 1-0 win over Sporting CP in the Champions League quarter-final first leg. It looked like Arsenal were set to ensure another frustrating outing, but Havertz came off the bench to net another late goal for the Gunners, giving them a lead to […]

The post Sporting CP 0-1 Arsenal: Havertz snatches dramatic late winner in quarter-final first leg appeared first on Soccer News.

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There has recently been much speculation about the future of Enzo Fernandez and his potential departure from Chelsea, with the Argentine midfielder openly speaking about Real Madrid. The best proof that the situation is rather serious is the confirmation of Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior that Fernandez was left out of Chelsea’s FA Cup thrashing of […]

The post Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez to hand in a transfer request appeared first on Soccer News.

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Though he’s been brought in as a temporary solution at Manchester United, it seems many see Michael Carrick as a good option for a permanent manager at Old Trafford. 🗣️ ”He is the right man” Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo on Michael Carrick ”knowing the club” and whether they’d like him to stay as Manchester […]

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There has recently been much speculation about the future of Enzo Fernandez and his potential departure from Chelsea, with the Argentine midfielder openly speaking about Real Madrid. The best proof that the situation is rather serious is the confirmation of Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior that Fernandez was left out of Chelsea’s FA Cup thrashing of […]

The post Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez to hand in a transfer request appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez to hand in a transfer request appeared first on Soccer News.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Barcelona have managed to remain competitive, emerging as candidates to win the Champions League. For today’s match, Hansi Flick faces a difficult challenge, as he goes up against Atlético Madrid in the quarterfinals. However, they will do so without Marc Bernal and Frenkie de Jong, losing their two starting midfielders. With this in mind, they will be forced to make major changes to their starting lineup.

After suffering an injury at the end of February, Frenkie de Jong has remained absent over Barcelona’s last eight matches. Although it seemed he would arrive in time, the Dutchman was unable to receive medical clearance, leaving him out of the first leg against Los Colchoneros. Nevertheless, he could get minutes against Espanyol, arriving in time for the second leg of the quarterfinals.

While Marc Bernal was the ideal replacement for the Dutchman, he will also be out for the match against Atlético Madrid. In the previous game, he had to come off just minutes after entering the field, being diagnosed with an ankle sprain that will sideline him for 10 days. Although his recovery period is short, this rules him out of both legs of the Champions League. With this, they lose both of their starting midfielders.

In the absence of Frenkie and Bernal, coach Hansi Flick could opt for Eric Garcia as a defensive midfielder. After regaining Jules Koundé, he could leave his position as a full-back and cover the absence of both stars. In addition, Marc Casadó could also play a key role off the bench, offering a more defensive and controlled profile. Nonetheless, the Blaugranas may still struggle to hold the control of the game.

Frenkie and Bernal’s absence could boost Dani Olmo starting role

Hansi Flick has managed to establish dominance in midfield, relying on Frenkie de Jong or Marc Bernal. With them on the field, Barcelona have been able to gain a privileged control of the ball due to their great vision of play, while maintaining defensive solidity. Therefore, the absence of both midfielders would justify the presence of Dani Olmo as a forward/false 9, as it would balance the build-up and the fluidity of play for the Blaugranas.

Although Eric Garcia or Marc Casadó have delivered solid performances, they do not offer the same offensive contribution for Barcelona. With this, coach Hansi Flick could rely on the pairing of Dani Olmo and Fermín López as key pieces, looking to provide constant support to the midfield. Additionally, this could open spaces for Marcus Rashford and Lamine Yamal to play on the wings, posing a constant threat to Atlético Madrid.

Along with this, the presence of Dani Olmo has already proven to be decisive in opening spaces against Los Colchoneros. Moving constantly and supporting Fermin Lopez, he manages to attract opposing defenders, opening spaces behind them. Moreover, he manages to generate numerical superiority in all offensive actions, allowing them to sustain possession longer and have more attacking opportunities.

PSG face Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, looking to secure a spot in the semifinals. Nevertheless, both teams arrive in contrasting form. While the French side comes in as one of the best teams in the world, the Reds are going through one of their worst seasons. Because of this, all eyes are on Mohamed Salah, as he can be decisive offensively.

After avoiding injuries in recent matches, Mohamed Salah is in full condition to play for Liverpool. However, coach Arne Slot decided to leave him of the starting lineup. In his final season at Anfield, the Egyptian could be more motivated than ever if he gets the chance, aiming for a heroic performance to lead his team to victory once again.

Slot will rely on Hugo Ekitike, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Florian Wirtz, looking to break down PSG’s strong defensive structure. However, they are coming off two consecutive defeats, raising serious doubts about their ability to secure a win. With this being the only competition they can still win, Liverpool could arrive highly motivated, seeking a victory that silences all criticism.

Unlike the Reds, Paris Saint-Germain come in on a run of four consecutive wins, regaining the best form of most of their players. As a result, coach Luis Enrique is getting the best version of Ousmane Dembélé, along with a dominant Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who has been the most decisive player from a collective standpoint. In addition, Willian Pacho and Marquinhos have been dominant defensively, complicating Arne Slot’s intentions.

PSG confirmed lineup vs Liverpool

Throughout the 2025–26 season, PSG have dealt with numerous injuries that have affected their performance. Heading into today’s match, coach Luis Enrique will be without Fabián Ruiz, Bradley Barcola, and Quentin Ndjantou. Nevertheless, they have managed to remain dominant, relying on Dembélé, Vitinha, and Marquinhos as the team’s leaders. In addition, the French side maintains a deep roster capable of making the difference.

Considering this, PSG will lineup as follows: Matvey Safonov; Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Joao Neves, Warren Zaire-Emery; Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

Liverpool confirmed lineup vs PSG

Like the French side, Liverpool head into the match with several players out, as Alisson Becker, Conor Bradley, Wataru Endo, Giovanni Leoni, and Stefan Bajcetic remain sidelined due to injury. However, coach Arne Slot has managed to keep the team competitive in the Champions League.

With this in mind, the Reds will play as follows: Giorgi Mamardashvili; Joe Gomez, Virgil Van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, Milos Kerkez; Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister; Jeremie Frimpong, Dominik Szoboszlai, Florian Wirtz; Hugo Ekitike.

Match Overview

After cruising through the Round of 16 in dominant fashion, Paris Saint-Germain now turn their attention to a far more demanding challenge in the quarterfinals. The reigning champions showed their firepower with an emphatic 8-2 aggregate victory over Chelsea, a result that underscored their title credentials.

Standing in their way are Liverpool, a battle-tested squad capable of flipping the script despite an inconsistent campaign. With experience, talent, and a semifinal berth on the line, this matchup has all the ingredients of a marquee clash—so make sure you don’t miss a minute of the action.

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Match Overview

A spot in the UEFA Champions League semifinals is on the line as Atletico Madrid and FC Barcelona renew their rivalry in a high-stakes quarterfinal showdown, adding yet another chapter to a season filled with head-to-head battles.

Atletico already proved they can get the upper hand in this matchup, knocking Barcelona out in the Copa del Rey semifinals, while the Catalan side responded with a statement victory in their most recent La Liga meeting, giving them momentum heading into this clash.

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Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup continued a worrying trend for the four-time winners of the tournament.

The warnings of early exits in 2010 and 2014 were not heeded as Italy missed out on qualification in 2018 and 2022.

A third consecutive absence is a major embarrassment for a nation which still considers itself to be one of the big-hitters in international football.

While the national team will spend the summer with their feet up, Italian football fans will still have plenty of reasons to watch the World Cup.

Numerous Serie A players will be representing their respective countries at the tournament, and several of them have a genuine chance of lifting the trophy.

Read on as we look at the Serie A stars to watch out for at the 2026 World Cup, before identifying some of the noteworthy players who have missed out.

Argentina bidding to go back-to-back this summer

Reigning champions Argentina will head into the tournament as one of the bookmakers’ favourites to retain the prestigious trophy.

Punters already tracking outright odds, futures markets and tournament betting lines can review the latest insights and markets at https://www.luckyrebel.la/sportsbook/soccer/fifa-world-cup before the competition begins.

Inter Milan forward Lautaro Martinez will be in the squad, while Como’s Nico Paz and Máximo Perrone are also likely to feature.

Martinez has been on the sidelines since suffering a calf injury in a Champions League tie in February, but is scheduled to return to action soon.

The 28-year-old has bagged 36 goals and 11 assists in 75 appearances for Argentina and will be a key figure in their bid to win back-to-back World Cups.

Leao hoping to play a key role for Portugal

It would be fair to say that Rafael Leao has never truly lived up to expectations at international level, but that could change this summer.

The 26-year-old has tallied just five goals and seven assists in 43 appearances for Portugal, which is a poor return for a player of his quality.

Leao has struggled with his fitness in recent months, and recently spent time in his homeland to seek independent medical advice on his issues.

If he can demonstrate that he is back to his best over the final few weeks of the season, the AC Milan winger could be a useful asset for Portugal this summer.

Pulisic aiming to sparkle on home soil

Christian Pulisic has not scored for the United States in eight games, a career-high international drought that stretches back to late 2024.

Despite his struggles, the Milan star will be a guaranteed starter for the co-hosts this summer under manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Recent defeats against Belgium and Portugal have cranked up the pressure on Pochettino, and he desperately needs Pulisic to rediscover his best form.

The US are scheduled to face Paraguay, Australia and Turkey in the group stage, and securing progression to the knockout phase is not a foregone conclusion.

McTominay ready to lead Scotland into battle

Scott McTominay has flourished since joining Napoli from Manchester United in 2024. He will be a key part of the Scotland squad this summer.

His stunning goal in the 4-2 win against Denmark that clinched a spot at the 2026 World Cup will be remembered as one of the greatest moments in Scotland’s history.

McTominay will need to be at his best if Scotland are to have any chance of progressing out a group containing Brazil, Morocco and Haiti.

His blend of defensive tenacity and forward thrust provides the Tartan Arm’s midfield with much needed balance. If he plays well, Scotland tend to play well.

Italy’s latest flop dents Serie A representation at the World Cup

Italy’s devastating penalty shootout defeat by Bosnia & Herzegovina resulted in them becoming the first previous winners to miss three consecutive World Cups.

The Serie A stars who feature in the Italian squad join a sizeable list of top-flight players who have missed out on this summer’s tournament. The most notable names are as follows:

• Nicola Zalewski (Poland, Atalanta)
• Piotr Zielinski (Poland, Inter)
• Gianluca Mancini (Italy, Roma)
• Alessandro Bastoni (Italy, Inter)
• Nicolo Barella (Italy, Inter)
• Federico Dimarco (Italy, Inter)
• Rasmus Hojlund (Denmark, Napoli)
• Adam Marusic (Montenegro, Lazio)
• Nikola Krstovic (Montenegro, Atalanta)
• Gustav Isaksen (Denmark, Lazio)
• Stanislav Lobotka (Slovakia, Napoli)
• Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa (Cameroon, Napoli)
• Maduka Okoye (Nigeria, Udinese)
• Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Nigeria, Lazio)
• Vanja Milinkovic-Savic (Serbia, Napoli)
• Dusan Vlahovic (Serbia, Juventus)
• Lazar Samardzic (Serbia, Atalanta)
• Strahinja Pavlovic (Serbia, Milan)
• Edon Zhegrova (Kosovo, Juventus)

Italy’s failure on this occasion can primarily be linked to financial issues in Serie A. The Italian top flight struggles to match the financial strength of rival European leagues.

This has impacted their ability to invest in their youth systems, which has resulted in Italy struggling to compete on the world stage.

Vincenzo Italiano believes that Bologna have a ‘50/50’ chance of beating Aston Villa over two legs of their Europa League quarter-final despite the fact that the Premier League side are ‘superior on paper’. 

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The Rossoblu will host the Villains at the Dall’Ara on Thursday evening for the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final tie. The reverse fixture will be played at Villa Park on April 16. 

Bologna claimed a surprise 5-4 aggregate victory over Serie A opponents Roma in the round of 16 in order to qualify for this stage of the competition. Aston Villa, meanwhile, claimed two round of 16 victories over Lille and qualified with a 3-0 aggregate scoreline.

Villa are the odds-on favourites to go on and win the Europa League title this season, but Bologna head coach Italiano believes that ‘anything can happen’ over two legs, and that his side have a ‘50/50’ chance of qualifying for the semi-finals. 

Italiano previews Bologna vs. Aston Villa: ‘It’s 50/50’

“It’s 50/50. You all know how complicated this match is, but we have to prove our value, our strength and our qualities,” Italiano said during his pre-match press conference on Wednesday. “We know the opponents because we’ve already faced them twice, but each match tells a different story. 

“We will have to manage the game over 180 minutes. Tomorrow is important because the first game gives you the opportunity to set up for the second leg in a certain way. We have every chance to do it. We have to take our chances because it is a big pride to be in the final eight.”

Bologna have the home ‘advantage’ for Thursday’s quarter-final first leg, but oddly that is something that may worry Bologna, who have lost six of the seven Serie A matches that they have played at the Dall’Ara in 2026. 

“Tomorrow there will be the obstacle of the stadium and I hope that (the supporters) will give us a big hand to conquer it,” Italiano admitted. “We’re coming in with a lot of enthusiasm having won in Cremona, which has allowed us to prepare well for this match,” he continued. 

“We had both the result and the performance in Cremona. I hope to confirm it in a tough and difficult game tomorrow. 

“I hope that the supporters will always continue to be with us, as I asked at the beginning of the season. I’ll give the example of Orsolini, who missed a penalty but was applauded. All that has to be protected. On paper, Aston Villa are superior to us, but with everyone’s help, we can overturn the predictions.” 

Bologna and Aston Villa have already met twice over the last two seasons, once in the league phase of the Europa League earlier this season and once in the Champions League in 2024-25. Villa won those matches 1-0 and 2-0 respectively, both played at Villa Park. 

“The two previous matches were in the ‘qualifying’ rounds, one-off games and at their home. This time we will play for 180 minutes and anything can happen,” said Italiano. “We know their strengths and weaknesses. We’ve always faced them at the beginning of the season, unlike now when we’re nearly at the end. 

“They have individual quality and a lot of value. We need an extraordinary performance, but there will definitely be a difference compared to the last two games.” 

Milan are expected to sign a new centre-forward in the summer, and according to Corriere della Sera, the Rossoneri’s top ‘dream’ target is Robert Lewandowski.

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Milan are determined to sign a new centre-forward for next season as Rafael Leao, Christian Pulisic, Christopher Nkunku and January signing Niclas Fullkrug have failed to impress in the second part of the campaign.

According to Corriere della Sera (via Milannews), the Rossoneri’s top target is Barcelona star Lewandowski, whose contract with the La Liga giants expires at the end of the season.

Technically, Lewandowski is available on a free transfer, and even if his high salary at Nou Camp represents a substantial obstacle, the Rossoneri will continue to monitor the Polish striker’s situation at Barcelona over the coming weeks.

The Catalans are expected to offer Lewandowski a one-year contract extension, but the experienced striker hasn’t yet made up his mind about his future at the club.

Corriere della Sera further reports that Milan will be listening to offers of at least €50m for their star, Rafael Leao, in the summer.

Inter have the small matter of the Serie A title to wrap up before the end of the 2025-26 season, but reports in Italy indicate that plans have already been made ahead of the 2026-27 campaign, beginning with the contract extension of head coach Cristian Chivu. Here’s what could happen next for the Nerazzurri. 

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What do Inter have planned for the summer transfer window?

Inter are seven points clear at the top of the Serie A table heading into the final seven matches of the season left to go. 

Assuming that the Nerazzurri go on to lift the trophy at the end of the season, Chivu will have won the league title in his first full season as a head coach of a senior side. 

The Romanian, who replaced Simone Inzaghi on a two-year contract last summer, is likely to be rewarded with a new contract extension, potentially until the summer of 2028 according to the latest reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport. 

Talks have not yet begun and are unlikely to take place before the end of the campaign, but the Pink Paper suggests that there will be no issues when it comes to negotiating a renewal.

Once Chivu’s contract is wrapped up, Inter will move forwards with what is expected to eb a summer transfer ‘revolution’. 

Chivu had already tried to bring in star-quality signings in Manu Kone and Ademola Lookman last summer in an attempt to reshuffle the Nerazzurri playing staff, but it is understood that he will be given more backing this time around after a convincing start to life in the Inter hot seat. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that Inter could look to move away from the 3-5-2 system that they have deployed so regularly over the last three seasons, and that they could be inclined to move to more of a 4-3-2-1. 

Kone remains a target heading into this summer window and could be a useful figure in that set-up. There have also been suggestions that Inter could make another attempt for Moussa Diaby, a natural winger, who would benefit in a 4-3-2-1 or 4-3-3 formation. 

Inter are also expected to bring in a new goalkeeper this summer, with Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario the current frontrunner.

As for the defence, La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Atalanta’s Marco Palestra is a strong favourite at right-back and that Oumar Solet and Mario Gila are strong options at centre-back.

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Oaktree will not provide much more than €40m for Inter to spend this summer, but this does not factor in the fact that Yann Sommer, Francesco Acerbi, Stefan  De Vrij, Matteo Darmian and Henrikh Mkhitaryan are likely to leave at the end of their contracts, which clears considerable room off the club’s wage bill. 

There have also been suggestions that Inter could look to sell one of their current first-team stars, such as Alessandro Bastoni, which would also improve the budget situation this summer. 

Denzel Dumfries, who has a release clause in his contract, as well as the likes of Davide Frattesi or Luis Henrique could also potentially be moved on this summer according to Wednesday’s report.

President Gabriele Gravina has published a report on the state of Italian football, along with a number of proposals to address the crisis, despite his recent resignation as FIGC President.

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Gravina resigned as the FIGC President last week in the wake of Italy’s World Cup play-off exit.

Italy did win the 2020 Euros with Gravina at the helm of the football federation, but also failed to qualify for the World Cup on two occasions.

Gravina has already announced his resignation, but will remain in charge for ordinary administration until his successor is elected on June 22.

On Wednesday, Gravina posted a report he was supposed to present at the Italian parliament last week, but his hearing was cancelled following his resignation.

Gravina shared the document “with the hope that it may stimulate reflection and deeper analysis, including among those who, in recent days, have added their opinions to the already crowded group of those who believe they have the solution in their pocket.

“The critical issues of Italian football have been known for years and highlighted in numerous official documents, differing only in the statistical data that continue to worsen, confirming that these are largely structural deficiencies,” continued the outgoing FIGC President.

“If we truly want what is best for Italian football as a whole sporting movement, it is necessary to clarify the actual responsibilities of the Federation, the Leagues and public institutions. Too many inaccuracies, and at times outright falsehoods, fuel the search for the culprit, but above all, spread misconceptions.

“In my view, it is no coincidence that in areas of direct and exclusive federal responsibility (social and environmental sustainability, youth and school projects, development and training programs for national youth teams, to name a few), significant results have been achieved.

“Unlike in areas where the interests of the various stakeholders, and their respective autonomies, overlap to such an extent that they effectively paralyse the system.”

The actual report began with a list of well-known issues affecting Serie A and Italian football, including the number of players eligible for selection to the national team, the average age of Serie A players and the high percentage of foreign players in Italy’s top flight.

Gravina highlighted the lack of investment in youth sectors and that “Italy ranks 49th out of 50 leagues monitored for the percentage of minutes played by U21 players eligible for the national team, at just 1.9%.”

The document reinforced that “Serie A is not among the top 10 leagues for meters covered in a sprint” and that “the average ball speed (7.6 m/s) is much lower than the Champions League average (10.4) and that of other major European leagues (9.2).”

Gravina insisted that it is “impossible” to impose a minimum number of Italian players in Serie A as it would “violate principles of free movement of workers, which applies to football as a professional sport.”

Gravina’s proposals to fix Italian football

He also highlighted that a tight fixture list has made it impossible to find a training window for the Italy national team outside the usual international breaks and complained about the lack of financial help from the Government.

Gravina said Italian football did not receive financial allocations, not even for the 2032 Euros, while other events organised in the country, such as the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, the America’s Cup in Naples, and the Mediterranean Games in Taranto, “received multi-billion funding.”

Lastly, he reiterated his proposals, which he had previously tried to implement, regarding a percentage of betting revenues to be allocated to football, in order to develop youth players and infrastructures, a tax credit, and the reintroduction of a “preferential tax regime” for professionals coming from abroad, practically the famous Growth Decree.

Gravina also insisted that the ban on advertising and sponsorships by betting operators be lifted, and that supportive measures be taken to build new stadiums or renovate existing ones.

The FIGC President stressed that a technical redevelopment of Italian football at the youth level has already started under Maurizio Viscidi, focusing more on technique than on tactics.

Lastly, he insisted that it is necessary to reshape Serie A, B, C, and D and to launch a reform project for the refereeing sector.

“Without this strong and unanimous willingness to prioritise the common good over the defence of individual positions, and with politics creating the conditions and enabling the necessary tools for action, no single individual can achieve a true and complete revival of Italian football,” Gravina concluded.

Reports in Italy suggest that Juventus could be just a few days away from announcing the contract extension of head coach Luciano Spalletti, which could potentially be announced before Saturday’s Serie A match against Atalanta. 

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Juventus set to announce Spalletti extension

La Gazzetta dello Sport writes that ‘the countdown is on’ for Juventus to announce Spalletti’s new contract. The Pink Paper reports that an agreement has been reached and that putting the signatures on the necessary documents is all that remains to be done before an announcement can go ahead. 

Spalletti is expected to put pen to paper on a two-year contract extension, running until the summer of 2028 with wages in the region of €5m-€6m per season including bonuses.

Wednesday’s report indicates that the announcement regarding Spalletti’s contract extension could arrive within the next few days, likely before the Serie A match away against Atalanta at 19.45 BST on Saturday evening. 

Spalletti originally joined Juventus at the end of October, penning an initial short-term deal until the end of the 2025-26 season with an option to extend for a further 12 months in the event of qualification for the Champions League. Juve, however, wish to settle any doubts and tie their head coach down before the off-season. 

Chelsea were interested in signing the Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado during the summer transfer window.

The 22-year-old midfielder did not want to leave his boyhood club, and he decided to stay. However, he has struggled for regular opportunities this season. Casado has had just 865 minutes of La Liga football this season, and he needs to play more often.

Casado has also been linked with Arsenal and Manchester United.

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Marc Casado needs a move

He is a talented player with a big future, and sitting on the bench at Barcelona will not benefit him. According to a report from publication SPORT via SportWitness, the player’s agent, Jorge Mendes, could be looking for a new destination for his client in the summer.

The report mentions Chelsea and Wolves as past interested parties. It remains to be seen whether Chelsea will renew their interest in Casado at the end of the season. They could use more quality and depth in the middle of the park, and the 22-year-old Spaniard could be a useful acquisition.

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Casado could be a handy option

He will be hungry for regular opportunities, and his determination to succeed will be a bonus for the Blues. Casado is likely to be available for a reasonable fee as well. The current situation will certainly serve as encouragement for the London club if they are truly interested in signing the Barcelona player. It remains to be seen whether they can capitalise on the situation and secure the 22-year-old’s services.

Casado has the technical attributes to succeed in the Premier League, and he could develop into an important player for Chelsea. The Blues have done well to groom young players in the past, and they could play a key role in his development. The opportunity to join one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League, especially if they can offer him regular opportunities, will be hard to turn down for the young midfielder.

The post Local media fuels Chelsea transfer talk as Barcelona ace grows frustrated appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Aston Villa have been handed a major Champions League boost following Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Sporting CP on Tuesday night.

The result in Lisbon has mathematically secured an extra European qualification spot for the Premier League, providing Unai Emery’s side with a significant safety net in their quest for elite continental football.

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The narrow win for the Gunners acted as the final catalyst in the UEFA coefficient race, ensuring that England will finish in the top two of the season rankings.

As a result, the Premier League is now guaranteed to have at least five teams in the expanded 36-team Champions League league phase for the 2026/27 season.

Premier League to have at least five Champions League spots

Under UEFA’s “European Performance Spot” rules, the two associations whose clubs perform best across the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League earn an additional automatic entry.

With Arsenal’s latest win, England has moved to an untouchable coefficient average of 25.013, clear of rivals Spain and Italy.

This means that the once “Top Four” race has officially transformed into a “Top Five” battle.

For clubs like Aston Villa, Manchester United, and Liverpool, the confirmation of a fifth spot changes the landscape of the final seven games of the season, significantly reducing the pressure of a potential late-season slip-up.

Aston Villa in pole position for top-four finish

Despite the new safety net of a fifth-place spot, Aston Villa remain in a commanding position to qualify on their own merits.

Villa currently sit in 4th place with 54 points from 31 games, five points clear of 5th-placed Liverpool.

With Unai Emery’s men boasting a five-point cushion and only seven matches remaining, the chances of Villa qualifying for the Champions League for the second time in three years is high.

The post Aston Villa handed major Champions League boost after key development appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Borussia Dortmund are now back in for the potential transfer of their former player Jadon Sancho, as confirmed by the club’s managing director Lars Ricken.

Speaking exclusively to CaughtOffside, German football journalist Christian Falk provided us with his insight into the Sancho situation as he could now be set for a third spell with Dortmund.

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Falk says Dortmund are now analysing if Sancho could improve their squad as he looks like a good market opportunity due to the fact that he’ll be out of contract with Manchester United this summer.

Sancho is currently on loan at Aston Villa and will surely not be staying there after a lack of impact, but it seems BVB would be open to working with him again after he previously shone during his first spell there as a youngster, and again on loan two years ago.

Why Dortmund changed their mind about Jadon Sancho

“Dortmund is analysing if Jadon would make the team better,” Falk told CaughtOffside.

“I think before Dortmund wasn’t sure if they’d go for Sancho because he wasn’t playing so well in recent seasons.

“But now they see a big chance, because they know they can make him better, and he’s now cheaper. He knows he can’t get the same kind of salary as before.

“The last time he was at Dortmund he showed that he can be important for this team and Dortmund is searching for this position.

“They know that Karim Adeyemi could leave the club in the summer and they need a new star. So a few months ago they weren’t sure about Sancho, but now everything changed.”

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Where did it go wrong for Jadon Sancho?

Sancho looked like such an exciting prospect in his first spell at Dortmund and it’s been quite a surprise to see him struggle so much during his time in the Premier League.

The 26-year-old possibly made the wrong choice in moving to Man Utd when he did, with so many other big prospects also struggling at Old Trafford in recent times.

Sancho will now have the chance for a fresh start this summer when he becomes a free agent, and returning to Dortmund could be the best way for him to revive his career.

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The post Excl: “Everything changed” – Why Euro giants are back in transfer race for Man United misfit appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Interest in Atalanta full-back Marco Palestra is intensifying across Europe, with Liverpool and Barcelona reportedly positioning themselves at the front of a growing queue of suitors.

The 21-year-old Italy international, currently gaining valuable experience on loan at Cagliari, has emerged as one of the most promising young right-backs in Serie A.

According to reports from TEAMtalk, several elite clubs are tracking his development closely, including Arsenal, Manchester United, and Chelsea, highlighting the scale of competition expected if he becomes available this summer.

With an estimated valuation of around €45 million, Palestra represents a significant investment, but one that many clubs appear willing to consider given the shortage of high-quality, defensively reliable full-backs in the modern game.

Breakthrough season at Cagliari elevates Palestra’s reputation

Palestra’s loan spell at Cagliari has played a key role in accelerating his development.

Having progressed through Atalanta’s highly respected youth system, widely known for producing technically gifted defenders, the young right-back has used his time at Cagliari to gain consistent top-flight minutes.

Those appearances have allowed him to refine his defensive positioning, improve his physical presence, and demonstrate maturity beyond his years.

Italian media and scouting reports have highlighted Palestra’s defensive reliability as one of his standout attributes.

Unlike many modern full-backs who prioritize attacking output, Palestra has built his reputation on strong tackling, intelligent positioning, and disciplined defensive awareness.

These qualities are particularly appealing to clubs seeking greater defensive balance on the right side of their back line.

His performances have also earned recognition at international level, with Italy selectors reportedly viewing him as part of the country’s long-term defensive plans.

Regular involvement in national team discussions often serves as confirmation of a player’s consistency and potential, further boosting his reputation across Europe.

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Why Liverpool see him as a strategic fit

Liverpool’s reported interest in Palestra reflects a tactical need at Anfield.

In recent seasons, the club has relied heavily on attacking full-backs, particularly on the right side, where creativity and forward movement have been prioritised.

However, there has been growing discussion in English media about the need for a more defensively focused option, especially in matches where defensive solidity becomes crucial.

By targeting a player like Palestra, Liverpool could add depth and balance to their defensive structure. A more traditional right-back profile would provide tactical flexibility, allowing the team to adjust formations depending on the opposition.

This type of versatility has become increasingly important in modern football, where teams often switch between attacking and defensive systems mid-match.

Liverpool’s recruitment strategy in recent years has also focused on signing players entering their prime developmental years.

At 21, Palestra fits that model perfectly, offering both immediate potential and long-term value.

European giants plot ambitious move to bring Liverpool star back to the league he left for Merseyside

The post Liverpool are joined by Barcelona in the race to sign rising Italian defender appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been urged not to play goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga again this season after his poor recent performances.

Kepa was selected over David Raya in Arsenal’s cup matches this season, playing in every round of the Carabao Cup, including in their final defeat against Manchester City.

The former Chelsea man was also in goal as Arsenal were knocked out of the FA Cup in a surprise defeat at Southampton last weekend.

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Raya was brought back into Arteta’s starting XI for the game against Sporting Lisbon last night, and Darren Bent feels it’s clear he now has to start every single game between now and the end of the season.

Bent doesn’t want to see Kepa again as Arteta urged to start Raya

Speaking on talkSPORT, as quoted by Football365, Bent said: “Stop playing Kepa. I know it’s not necessarily his fault, but I don’t want to see Kepa again this season.

“As a back-up, perfect. David Raya, between now and the end of the season, has to play every single minute.

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“Even if Arsenal destroy Sporting in the Champions League, next week I need David Raya in goal. Play him from now in every game until the end of the season.

“I understand he’s trying to play bodies but these players are letting him down, they keep being given opportunities and they’re not taking them.”

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Arsenal fans will surely agree with this after Raya’s superb goalkeeping heroics in the win over Sporting last night.

The Spanish shot-stopper is quite simply on a whole other level from Kepa, who flopped at Chelsea and who will surely never be more than a backup for a top club.

The post Pundit urges Arteta not to use Arsenal star again, names player who “has to play every single minute” instead appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Verdict: Arsenal win Best Odds: 1/2 Bookmaker: Dachbet Turning their attention back to Premier League duties on Saturday lunchtime, Arsenal will welcome Bournemouth to north London. Arsenal Starting with the hosts, watching two pieces of silverware go up in smoke on either side of March’s international break, Arsenal travelled over to Portugal on Tuesday night […]

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

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

There has recently been much speculation about the future of Enzo Fernandez and his potential departure from Chelsea, with the Argentine midfielder openly speaking about Real Madrid. The best proof that the situation is rather serious is the confirmation of Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior that Fernandez was left out of Chelsea’s FA Cup thrashing of […]

The post Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez to hand in a transfer request appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez to hand in a transfer request appeared first on Soccer News.

Hakan Calhanoglu’s hug with Mircea Lucescu following Turkey’s win over Romania in March has gone viral in the wake of the Romanian coach’s passing at 80: ‘You did so much for me,’ wrote the Inter star.

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The world of football is mourning legendary coach Lucescu, who died on Tuesday at age 80.

The former Inter and Brescia boss had taken charge of his last game just a few days earlier, seeing his Romania side lose 1-0 against Turkey in the World Cup play-off semifinal.

After the match, Inter star Calhanoglu warmly hugged his former national team coach.

Lucescu, in fact, had coached Turkey between 2017 and 2018, during which Calhanoglu scored one goal and provided one assist in 12 appearances.

Calhanoglu’s final hug with Lucescu has gone viral on social media, and even the Inter star shared it in his Instagram stories.

Calhanoglu’s hug with Lucescu

“We have lost not only a great coach, but also a person of great character,” wrote Calhanoglu.

“You did so much for me, and I will always remember you with respect and gratitude. Rest in peace, coach.”

Inter and their ex-midfielder Andrea Pirlo also paid tribute to Lucescu on social media following his death.

Lucescu’nun son maçında Hakan Çalhanoğlu ile sarıldığı anlar: pic.twitter.com/UrkXRynN9I

— MEGA MAG (@MEGA_MAG__) April 7, 2026

Corriere della Sera reports that Milan have changed their transfer stance on Rafael Leao and are willing to consider offers of at least €50m in the summer.

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Milan are reportedly ready to listen to offers worth at least €50m for their star striker, Rafael Leao.

The Portuguese has a €175m clause included in his contract, which was the asking price set by the Rossoneri in previous years.

However, according to Corriere della Sera (via Milannews), Leao’s unconvincing performances and physical problems this season have led the Rossoneri to change their strategy and set lower demands for the 26-year-old, who has scored 10 goals in 25 appearances across all competitions.

Leao made headlines for the wrong reasons in recent weeks, reacting angrily to a substitution during an away game at Lazio.

The Portuguese missed the following match against Torino due to an injury and made a substitute appearance against Napoli on Monday.

Leao’s contract with Milan expires in June 2028. He has scored 80 goals and provided 64 assists in 285 appearances with the Rossoneri, winning the Serie A title in 2021-22.

Manchester United and Manchester City are reportedly likely to be the two main clubs in the race for the transfer of Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson.

The England international is dominating headlines at the moment after a superb season in the Premier League, and it’s easy to imagine him being a key player for his country at this summer’s World Cup in North America.

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According to Florian Plettenberg, Forest now expect Anderson to join either United or City if he leaves this summer, though a deal won’t come cheap.

See below for details as Anderson could even cost as much as £120m…

??? Forest expect Elliot #Anderson to join either Manchester United or Manchester City if he leaves this summer.

So far, no club has made direct contact with Forest. A fee in the region of £100-120m is being demanded. #MUFC #MCFC @SkySportDE ??????? pic.twitter.com/jot9pvCcvp

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) April 8, 2026

“Forest expect Elliot #Anderson to join either Manchester United or Manchester City if he leaves this summer,” Plettenberg said.

“So far, no club has made direct contact with Forest. A fee in the region of £100-120m is being demanded.”

Arsenal and Chelsea out of the running for Elliot Anderson?

This latest update could mean that Arsenal and Chelsea are out of the running for Anderson as speculation grows that he’ll join one of the Manchester clubs.

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We recently received information that Arsenal sensed an opportunity to move for Anderson, even if United and City were widely seen as further ahead in the race for the 23-year-old’s signature.

Chelsea also like Anderson as a replacement for Enzo Fernandez, but it seems this may no longer be a realistic option for the Blues.

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United and City need Anderson more

In fairness, United are about to lose possibly two midfielders this summer, with Casemiro set to be out of contract, while Manuel Ugarte has flopped and could leave, as reported here.

That makes someone like Anderson an urgent priority for MUFC, who might need another midfield signing on top of that.

City are also looking in need of changes in the middle of the park, with Rodri’s future in some doubt as Real Madrid show an interest, according to Fabrizio Romano on his YouTube channel.

The post Man United & City transfer target to cost £100-120m, club think they know where he’s going appeared first on CaughtOffside.

According to Football Insider, Manchester City have joined the race to sign West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes.

The Portuguese midfielder, who recently earned his first cap for the country, is wanted by top Premier League clubs including Manchester United and Liverpool.

With West Ham strugging at the wrong end of the table, Premier League sides, including Man City, are ready to take advantage of their struggles and make a move for the midfielder.

The Premier League giants are set to lose Bernardo Silva at the end of the season which makes their interest in Fernandes obvious.

Man City to face competition from Premier League rivals

Just like Man City, Man United are also seriously interested in a move for the Premier League midfielder.

The Red Devils are losing Casemiro at the end of the season and Bruno Fernandes reportedly wants his club to make a move for his compatriot who has impressed at West Ham this season despite their struggles.

“Mateus Fernandes has regularly been West Ham’s best player,” Mick Brown told Football Insider.

“When that is the case for any team who are at risk of relegation, it’s going to inspire interest from some of the bigger clubs in the Premier League.

“He’s now made his first appearance from Portugal, and that will have added to the interest in him.

“Man City are one of the clubs having a look at him, and one thing there is Bernardo Silva is going to be leaving at the end of the season.

“So they’re looking at a few midfielders who could come in and help to ease the burden of his exit.

“They’re quite well-stocked in midfield, but it’s a position they’re looking to strengthen in, and Fernandes is going to be on that list with a few other names.”

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West Ham midfielder will not be short of options

Extracting the Portuguese international from West Ham will be a highly complex and expensive operation.

The Hammers have a well-documented history of playing hardball over their most prized assets, and they will undoubtedly demand a massive premium to sanction the departure of a player whose stock is rising exponentially.

Furthermore, securing Fernandes could spark a fierce bidding war. Cross-town rivals Man United have also been heavily linked with the youngster, driven by enthusiastic recommendations from club captain and international teammate Bruno Fernandes.

Landing a versatile, dynamic talent like Fernandes would perfectly bridge the gap between City’s current veteran core and their next generation of superstars.

Whether they can successfully fend off intense competition from Old Trafford and convince West Ham’s formidable negotiating team to do business remains to be seen, but City’s concrete interest guarantees that Fernandes will be one of the most closely watched players this summer.

Report: Man City now in pole position to beat Man United and Arsenal to sign £65m midfielder

The post Man City plot move to sign West Ham star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

As the summer transfer window rapidly approaches, Chelsea’s relentless pursuit of Europe’s premier young talent shows absolutely no signs of slowing down.

According to recent reports from the German outlet Bild, the Blues are maintaining a strong, active interest in FC Cologne’s breakout forward, Said El Mala.

The 19-year-old has been a magnificent revelation in the Bundesliga this season, registering a highly impressive 10 goals in 28 league appearance, a clinical return that has inevitably placed him firmly on the radar of several top-flight English clubs.

Said El Mala is a rising star in Germany

El Mala’s rapid ascent from academy prospect to first-team regular has been nothing short of spectacular.

Hitting double digits in one of Europe’s top five leagues as a teenager is a surefire way to command a premium valuation in the modern market.

For Chelsea, who have heavily prioritised long-term, high-ceiling investments under their current ownership, securing a talent like El Mala matches perfectly with their overarching strategic vision at Stamford Bridge.

Meanwhile, reports suggest that his representatives have turned down an approach from Newcastle United, indicating that the player’s camp may be carefully considering the right long-term destination rather than rushing into negotiations.

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Chelsea face competition from Premier League clubs

However, the West Londoners are far from the only suitors closely monitoring the teenager’s progress.

A fierce domestic bidding war is quietly brewing, with Brighton & Hove Albion, Brentford, and Everton all registering concrete interest.

Brighton and Brentford, in particular, possess stellar, data-driven reputations for identifying, nurturing, and eventually profiting from undervalued continental gems.

By potentially offering a much clearer, less congested pathway to regular first-team minutes than Chelsea can provide, these clubs present a highly tempting alternative for a young player still navigating the critical early stages of his professional career.

Interest in El Mala is not limited to England. Scouts from across Europe are believed to be tracking his progress, particularly after his consistent contributions in the Bundeslig, a league known for developing attacking talent at a rapid pace.

Sources: Liverpool, Chelsea & Spurs all in talks to sign in-form 28-year-old

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Juventus are reportedly considering a bold move to sign Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker, with the Italian giants exploring ways to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming season.

According to reports from Calciomercato, Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has identified the experienced Brazilian as a prime target, viewing him as a potential long-term upgrade in the goalkeeping department.

The interest reflects Juventus’ ambition to rebuild key areas of their squad and re-establish themselves among Europe’s elite clubs.

With uncertainty surrounding the future of current goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio, the Turin-based side are evaluating high-level alternatives and Alisson’s proven pedigree at the highest level has placed him firmly on their radar.

Spalletti’s influence and the appeal of experience

Spalletti’s reported interest in Alisson is rooted in familiarity and trust.

The Juventus manager previously worked with the Brazilian during his time at Roma, where Alisson developed into one of Europe’s most reliable goalkeepers before earning a high-profile transfer to Liverpool in 2018.

That prior relationship could prove significant if Juventus decide to pursue negotiations seriously.

Alisson’s career at Liverpool has been marked by consistency, leadership, and big-match performances. Since arriving from Roma for what was then a world-record fee for a goalkeeper, he has been central to Liverpool’s success under Jürgen Klopp and Arne Slot.

His contributions helped the club secure major honours, including the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup, achievements that underline his value as both a shot-stopper and a leader in the dressing room.

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Financial considerations & transfer possibilities for Liverpool star

From a financial standpoint, Juventus are reportedly confident they can meet Alisson’s current salary demands, believed to be around €8 million per season.

However, the overall structure of any deal remains a critical factor. Liverpool are understood to value the Brazilian at approximately €20 million, a figure Juventus may attempt to negotiate downward, especially given the player’s age and contract situation.

Liverpool’s own planning could also influence negotiations. The club have been investing in long-term squad evolution, and recent years have seen discussions about succession planning in key positions, including goalkeeper.

Although Alisson remains a cornerstone of Liverpool’s defensive stability, clubs often consider long-term transitions as players enter the later stages of their careers.

‘If Slot does get sacked by Liverpool’ – Expert names two players for letting Arne Slot down 

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Italy legend Andrea Pirlo bids farewell to his former Brescia and Inter coach Mircea Lucescu: ‘You raised me like a son, I’ll never stop thanking you.’

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Lucescu, a former coach of Pisa, Inter, Reggiana, and Brescia, died on Tuesday, aged 80.

Italian legend Pirlo made his Serie A debut at Brescia in 1995, aged 16. Lucescu had been sacked by the Rondinelle a few months earlier but remained at the club as the technical director.

Pirlo made his Serie A debut under Lucescu’s assistant Adelio Moro with Brescia already relegated to Serie B.

“Thank you for everything, mister. I will never stop thanking you,” Pirlo wrote on Instagram, posting a picture of him hugging Lucescu.

“You raised me like a son, giving me the opportunity to challenge myself with others when I was very young. You taught me what it means to love this sport in all its details. I will never stop thanking you. Have a good trip, mister. Thank you, Mircea.”

A few years later, Pirlo played under Lucescu at Inter, making 16 appearances in the 1998-99 campaign.

The Nerazzurri have also paid tribute to their former coach with a message on social media.

Lucescu’s last game was just a few days ago, as he took charge of the Romanian national team in the World Cup play-off semi-final against Turkey, one of his former teams.

Pirlo’s social media message for Lucescu

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Un post condiviso da Andrea Pirlo Official (@andreapirlo21)

Dusan Vlahovic’s latest injury might mean the Serbia international finishes the season with the poorest record of his career, but according to Gazzetta, it may also give Juventus an advantage in contract negotiations.

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What Vlahovic’s injury means for his Juventus future

Juventus star Vlahovic suffered a calf injury while warming up in the second half of Monday’s home Serie A match against Genoa and will be sidelined for at least three weeks.

The Serbian had undergone adductor surgery in December and had just returned to action after a four-month layoff.

In recent weeks, Juventus have continued negotiations to extend his contract beyond the summer as the striker’s current deal expires in June.

Just a few months ago, his stay in Turin seemed quite unlikely as the Serbian sought a salary close to €12m, the sum he’s earned in his final year at Juventus.

However, the Bianconeri’s confidence in a possible extension has increased recently.

No other club, in fact, seem willing to match Vlahovic’s current wages, and initial talks with other clubs such as Barcelona or Milan have led nowhere.

According to Gazzetta, the Bianconeri are only open to offering a one or two-year contract extension and a salary of €6-7m.

Juventus director Marco Ottolini said on Monday that he saw “mutual desire” to continue negotiations, and Gazzetta notes that Vlahovic’s injury will inevitably put the club in a stronger position.

Aside from the lack of offers from other clubs, Vlahovic will have few chances to show his worth in the final part of the season, for either club or country, given he won’t return to action for Juventus before May and that Serbia have not qualified for the World Cup.

Vlahovic has only scored three goals in Serie A this season, six across all competitions, marking the fewest ever recorded at a senior level.

Former Inter star Hernan Crespo is impressed by his compatriot and Nerazzurri captain Lautaro Martinez: ‘He’s improved enormously, there were plenty of big clubs trying to lure him away…’

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Lautaro Martinez returned to action after nearly two months on Sunday, contributing to Inter’s 5-2 win over Roma at San Siro with two goals.

In the previous seven games without the Argentine on the field, the Nerazzurri had collected two wins, three draws and two defeats.

Crespo: ‘Plenty of big clubs’ wanted to sign Lautaro Martinez

“I’ve followed him since he was a kid. His first steps in Europe at Inter, an environment I know very well,” Crespo told Gazzetta.

“There were plenty of big clubs trying to lure him away, but he never wanted to detach himself from his love. That loyalty has made him an icon. Technically, tactically, physically, he’s improved enormously.”

Crespo, a former Argentina international, went on to say that Lautaro alone is worth half of Inter.

“The results say it. With him on the pitch, you win. Without him, you are at risk,” he insisted.

“Whenever the team has dipped, Lautaro hasn’t been in form or has been injured. He’s not just a finisher, he’s an example for his teammates.”

The Nerazzurri are the Serie A table leaders, and Lautaro is the top scorer in the league, but they were eliminated from the Champions League knockout play-off by Bodo/Glimt.

“Let me ask you something: was he playing in the return leg against Bodo? No,” noted Crespo.

“Lautaro is an asset for the team and a problem for the opponents. They never know how to mark him. He moves across the entire front line; he has precise shots from distance and inside the box; he’s lethal. Where do you find a more complete striker in Serie A? Who’s the top scorer right now? It’s him. Who’s the striker defenders fear the most? It’s him. So, what are we even talking about?”

Inter have a seven-point lead over second-placed Napoli with seven games remaining. The Nerazzurri visit Cesc Fabregas’ Como next week.

“I thought Inter were the strongest team in Italy, and they are proving it,” Crespo concluded.

“Mind you, it wasn’t that obvious. In the summer, they changed coaches, methods, and tweaked things tactically as well. There were a few stumbles, but in the long run, they’ve shown they’re the best.”

Crespo, 50, scored 153 goals in 340 Serie A matches. He played for Inter, Milan, Lazio, Parma and Genoa in Italy’s top-flight.

Former Italy and Juventus winger Emanuele Giaccherini is confident that Antonio Conte will ‘bring the Azzurri back to the World Cup’ if he’s appointed as the new coach.

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Conte has emerged as the leading candidate to become the new Italy national team coach and has already refused to rule out a possible return to the Azzurri’s bench.

‘Conte is what Italy need’

Giaccherini played under Conte at Juventus and the Italy national team and feels the Napoli boss is the ideal replacement for Gennaro Gattuso after the Azzurri failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third time in a row.

“He’s the leader to rely on in difficulties. He prepares his players like soldiers for a battle, exactly what is needed now,” the ex-Italy winger told Gazzetta.

“Conte has a way of working that gets under your skin. If you follow him, you grow. And for him, players give everything they’ve got. He knows ot to create a unique bond with the group.”

Giaccherini said Conte showed the same mindset for either club or country.

“His attitude was exactly the same. He manages to get his ideas across very quickly. On the pitch, you always know what to do; you’ve practised it a thousand times in training, to the point of exhaustion,” the ex-winger said.

“And the workload…I remember sessions at Coverciano where we were throwing up. We needed oxygen masks to get through the end. We’d leave completely drained.

“The sessions were brutal, but on the pitch, we were flying. He told us that performing well was our mission and that we had to be soldiers ready for a battle. We didn’t have superstars, but our hunger made the difference.

“He’s the best. He’ll take us back to the World Cup,” concluded Giaccherini.

“He’s already shown he can do well with the national team. His track record says it all: he rebuilt Juventus, Inter and Napoli. And he would do the same with Italy, now more than ever.”

Chelsea are reportedly seriously interested in a potential transfer swoop for Newcastle United forward Nick Woltemade amid doubts over Liam Delap.

According to Simon Phillips, there is some uncertainty around Woltemade’s future as he wants to be playing as a striker more often, which Chelsea could offer him.

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While it’s not yet guaranteed that Chelsea will move for the Germany international, it seems like something they’re considering exploring, particularly if Newcastle make a move for Delap.

It’s been a difficult first season for Delap at Stamford Bridge and our information is that Newcastle are one of the clubs informed that he could be available this summer.

If Delap does move on, then Woltemade certainly has potential as a solid replacement.

Nick Woltemade could be a surprisingly strong signing for Chelsea

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Woltemade hasn’t been entirely convincing at Newcastle, but he started well and was on the radar of top clubs during his time at Stuttgart.

The 24-year-old might benefit from a change of scene and from the chance to play in his preferred role more often, so there could be some sense in joining the Blues.

It could be a bit of a risk, but it’s also surely worth trying something different up front after Delap’s struggles since joining from Ipswich Town.

Liam Delap likely to leave Chelsea

Our sources previously told us about Delap’s CFC future being in doubt already, with Newcastle joined by the likes of Manchester United, Everton, Brighton, and Sunderland as keeping an eye on his situation.

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With just one goal in 22 Premier League games this season, Delap has been a major flop at Chelsea and it might mean he won’t get much more time to try to improve and show what he can do.

Still, Delap did impress at Ipswich and there’s surely some potential for him to still have a decent Premier League career, even if he’s not quite cut out for clubs with top four or title ambitions.

The post Chelsea have serious interest in Premier League star to replace recent signing appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United and England legend Paul Scholes has made it clear that he thinks Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman should go to the 2026 World Cup this summer.

Dowman has long been highly rated after making a huge impression at academy level for Arsenal, and he’s just started to play more of a role in Mikel Arteta’s first-team as well.

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The 16-year-old recently scored his first Arsenal goal in a 2-0 win at home to Everton, and he started the recent FA Cup game away to Southampton, whilst coming off the bench in last night’s Champions League win away to Sporting Lisbon.

It’s clear Dowman is a special talent, and it seems Scholes already wants to see him involved with England at the upcoming World Cup.

Paul Scholes on “unbelievable” Max Dowman

Watch below as Scholes insists Dowman gives England something different and should be involved in Thomas Tuchel’s squad, just as Lamine Yamal was when he won the Euros with Spain at a similar age.

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Speaking on The Good, The Bad, & The Football, Scholes said: “How good is Max Dowman?”

When it was put to him that it might be a bit soon, the pundit added: “No, f*** that. Look at Spain with Yamal.

"I don't think there's an English player with the ability he's got"

Scholes wants Max Dowman in Tuchel’s England World Cup squad! ??????? pic.twitter.com/hn0xpXLEsT

— The Good, The Bad & The Football (@goodbadftblpod) April 8, 2026

“He was f****** 15, 16 when he won the Euros. F****** get him in. We’ve not got a player like him.

“I think he’s unbelievable, he’s brilliant.

“Spain would do it. Spain are successful. I don’t think there’s an English player with the ability he’s got.”

Is Max Dowman ready for the World Cup?

Arsenal fans will be excited by Dowman’s rapid rise, but they’ll also surely be concerned about talk of him going to the World Cup already.

That’s a lot of pressure for a young and inexperienced player, who is set to take his GCSEs this summer!

Still, when discussing Dowman recently, Tuchel did not rule out calling up Dowman.

“Everyone who tells me about Max praises him and is full of compliments about him,” Tuchel said of the teenager.

“The reality at the moment is also that he competes for minutes – he’s not a regular starter for Arsenal.

“We always have the chance to call him, maybe, up for the World Cup.

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“The thing with young players is to keep their momentum, maybe, going and keep their excitement, and they have a level of fearlessness with them.

“So no need to call him up now and increase the pressure and increase all the noise that comes with it. But yeah, we have all options.”

The post “F****** get him in” – Paul Scholes insists “unbelievable” Arsenal star has to go to the World Cup appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Bayern Munich left the Santiago Bernabeu with a 2-1 advantage in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid. Kylian Mbappe reduced the deficit for Los Blancos after goals from Luis Diaz and Harry Kane on either side of half-time, and though Bayern missed plenty of golden opportunities, they also heavily relied […]

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The post Real Madrid 1-2 Bayern Munich: Kane gives Kompany´s men first-leg advantage in Champions League thri appeared first on Soccer News.

Verdict: Draw Best Odds: 14/5 Bookmaker: Luckster In what is a must-win showdown on Friday night, West Ham will welcome Wolves to the London Stadium. West Ham Starting with the hosts, while West Ham might have come within touching distance of completing a sensational FA Cup comeback last weekend, the Hammers suffered public heartbreak in […]

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The post Prediction: West Ham vs Wolves – Betting Tips, Team News, Key Facts appeared first on Soccer News.

Como star Nico Paz is among the top five most valuable Serie A players, and it’s no coincidence that the 21-year-old is expected to return to Real Madrid soon.

Argentine talent Nico Paz is not only among the most exciting players to watch this season, but has already climbed the rankings for the most valuable players in Serie A.

According to Transfermarkt, only Lautaro Martinez (Inter), Kenan Yildiz (Juventus), and Alessandro Bastoni (Inter) are more valuable than Nico Paz currently.

This is just his second season in Serie A, but Paz proved to be a real difference maker at the Stadio Sinigaglia with 10 goals and six assists in 29 Serie A appearances this term.

His performances have helped Como climb to fourth in Serie A, placing them among the contenders for a Champions League spot.

Due to the history and tradition of Juventus and Roma, who are Como’s main rivals, the odds are still fairly attractive for those who believe Como will go all the way through to qualify for Europe’s elite competition for the first time in their history.

Many fans have backed the Azzurri with the same hope and passion with which they play on Rocketplay online casino.

Under Cesc Fabregas – ironically, a Barcelona legend – product of Real Madrid academy, Nico Paz seems to have become a top-class player. His reported €65m value is the same as Milan star Rafael Leao’s and just €5m short of Bastoni’s worth.

Fabregas had clear ideas on the development of the exciting attacking midfielder, especially at the beginning of Nico Paz’s stint in Como.

“He’s a special player, and he must be free to express himself,” the Como coach said in October 2024.

“We must not make him robotic.”

Fabregas has been using the carrot-and-stick approach with the 21-year-old. Back in February, the Spanish tactician benched Paz for a game against Lecce as the player had turned up late to a meal before the match.

Nico Paz is technically a Como player as the Azzurri confirmed his permanent purchase from Real Madrid in 2024.

Yet the Merengues can activate an option to re-sign the talented Argentine in the summers of 2026 and 2027.

“The decision is entirely up to Real Madrid. There’s nothing we can do but wait and act accordingly,” Como President Mirwan Suwarso said earlier this month.

“In any case, we’ll be happy for him and will start working to find a replacement. For now, he’s very happy here, in this big family.”

As things stand, Nico Paz seems destined to return to the Bernabeu in 2026-27, but Como will want to enjoy him for a few more months, which could lead to a historic qualification for the Champions League or Europa League.

Antonio Conte has emerged as the top choice to become the new Italy national team coach, with backing from FIGC presidential candidates Giovanni Malagò and Giancarlo Abete, reports Gazzetta.

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Napoli coach Conte is the leading candidate to replace Gennaro Gattuso as Italy’s national team coach.

Why Conte is favourite to become new Italy coach

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Partenopei boss has the backing from Malagò and Abete, who are expected to be among the candidates for the FIGC Presidency.

The new president of the Italian FA will only be voted on June 22, so the next two Azzurri games, played earlier that month, will be managed by a caretaker coach.

Gazzetta wrote on its front page on Wednesday that both Abete and Malagò see Conte as the ideal option to lead the Azzurri towards qualification for Euro 2028 and beyond.

Currently, not all the candidates for the FIGC Presidency have been disclosed, and neither Malagò, 67, nor Abete, 75, have officially confirmed that they’ll run for the role.

However, according to multiple reports, both are among the leading contenders, despite rumours that Azzurri legends Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Del Piero and Demetrio Albertini might be involved in the race for the presidency.

Currently, Roberto Mancini and Massimiliano Allegri are the main alternatives to Conte, reports Gazzetta.

Conte’s contract at the Stadio Maradona runs out in June 2027, but Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis has already claimed that he’d let the Italian tactician become the Azzurri national team coach.

• Read more – Napoli identify replacement in case Conte leaves to take over Italy national team

Manchester United are reportedly eyeing two midfielders this summer in a major rebuild in that area of their squad.

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In a bid to add a combination of both technique and power to their side, Man Utd are being linked with the likes of West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes and Aston Villa’s Amadou Onana, as per Sacha Tavolieri.

The Red Devils will also be letting Casemiro leave as his contract comes to an end, while the report adds that Manuel Ugarte could be likely to leave as Juventus show an interest.

Elliot Anderson also continues to be mentioned as one of United’s dream targets for that area of their squad, though the Daily Mirror‘s latest info suggests Manchester City are in pole position to land the Nottingham Forest and England midfielder.

Competition to sign Mateus Fernandes

Fernandes is certainly likely to be one to watch this summer, and it’s easy to imagine him being a success in United’s midfield.

Our understanding, however, is that Liverpool have held talks over Fernandes, so they may be moving ahead in the race for the Hammers star.

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Still, United are currently looking the more likely to qualify for the Champions League, so that could give them an edge in the race against Liverpool, whose poor form could still see them miss out, even if there are now five spots available for English clubs.

All in all, it seems like it’s going to be an interesting summer for midfielders moving clubs, with a lot of quality players looking to be available on the market, with big clubs all likely to make changes in that department.

The post Boost for Man United as they eye midfield duo with combination of technique and power appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United’s summer recruitment plans are beginning to take definitive shape, with the club reportedly setting their sights on Werder Bremen’s teenage defensive phenom, Karim Coulibaly.

As the Red Devils desperately look to fortify a backline that has been repeatedly decimated by fitness issues, the 18-year-old German U21 international has emerged as a primary target, according to Sky Sport Germany.

Viewed as both crucial immediate competition and a long-term succession plan for Lisandro Martinez, Coulibaly represents a strategic shift toward securing top-tier emerging talent.

Man United consider Lisandro Martinez unreliable

Since following Erik ten Hag to Old Trafford in the summer of 2022, Martinez has been a transformative figure when available, offering elite ball progression and aggressive, front-foot defending.

However, the Argentine World Cup winner’s availability has become a major liability.

Martinez has been plagued by a staggering seven different injuries over the past couple of seasons, causing him to miss nearly 100 matches for club and country.

His recent cruciate ligament troubles and subsequent setbacks have underscored a harsh reality for the United hierarchy, relying solely on the brilliant but fragile defender is entirely unsustainable.

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Couliably has impressed top European clubs

Enter Coulibaly. The highly-rated centre-back has enjoyed a spectacular breakout campaign in the Bundesliga, logging 22 senior appearances this season and firmly establishing himself as one of Europe’s most coveted young defenders.

He recently etched his name into the history books by becoming Werder Bremen’s youngest-ever Bundesliga goalscorer.

He is known for his tactical maturity, imposing physical presence, and superb composure on the ball.

Coulibaly mirrors many of the progressive, modern traits required to thrive in a high-line Premier League system.

Consequently, the Bundesliga side has slapped a formidable €40 million to €50 million price tag on their prized asset.

Furthermore, United face intense competition for his signature, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Napoli, and Newcastle United are all closely monitoring the situation, with Chelsea reportedly already initiating contact with Coulibaly’s representatives.

Bruno Fernandes urges Man United to sign Portugal teammate as his midfield partner 

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According to Football Insider, Arsenal could consider the surprise sale of attacker Gabriel Martinelli as they look to balance the books.

The Brazilian attacker has been used mostly as a substitute this season with manager Mikel Arteta favouring Leandro Trossard on the left-wing.

Martinelli’s output this season has been limited, unsurprisingly, considering the amount of football he has played this season.

His form has struggled massively in the Premier League but in the Champions League he has been quite impressive.

Even last night against Sporting in the Champion, it was Martinelli who provided the impact from the bench by making an assist for Kai Havertz’s late winner.

However, the Gunners could be forced to sell the Brazilian attacker not only because they want to balance their books and invest more money in the squad but also because of his contract situation.

What does the future hold for Martinelli at Arsenal?

The 24-year-old is set to enter the final year of his contract at the club and naturally he would attract a lot of attention from the outside.

Martinelli still has the potential to get even better. Considering his age and versatility, he is far from a finished product and he would be attracting a lot of attention.

It remains to be seen if the Gunners tie him up to a new contract to protect his value or let him leave the club in the summer transfer window without offering a new deal.

In case Martinelli is allowed to leave the club, the Gunners are expected to sign a new left sided attacker.

Currently, they have Trossard and Noni Madueke as the options to play in that position, although it must not be forgotten that the latter is naturally a right-winger.

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Where could Martinelli be heading if he leaves the Gunners?

A recent report from TEAMtalk has claimed that the Premier League leaders are looking to get £50 million for Martinelli.

Atletico Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig and Marseille are all reportedly interested in signing the Premier League star.

It remains to be seen if the Gunners will be able to get the price they want for Martinelli since he has not played enough football and his contract situation could complicate the matters for Arteta and his team.

Still only 24, he has the time to develop into a world class player and play in a number of different positions.

Sources: Arsenal exploring two centre-back transfers, including Chelsea target

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Arsenal are stepping up their interest in strengthening in defence this summer, with a top young centre-back likely to be the priority.

The Gunners have a long-standing interest in Real Madrid’s Victor Valdepenas, and my sources have confirmed another name to me in conversations this morning.

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One player Arsenal really like, and who is attracting growing interest ahead of this summer, is Como centre-back Jacobo Ramon.

The 21-year-old joined Como from Real Madrid last summer, and it’s important to note that they have a buy-back clause, and also a 50% sell-on clause.

The buy-back clause gives Real the edge if they decide to re-sign him, which is possible but I can’t confirm that it’s on the cards at the moment, while the hefty sell-on clause is likely to inflate his price so Como can still make decent money from any deal.

Arsenal and Chelsea in mix for Jacobo Ramon transfer

Chelsea have been linked with Ramon in recent times and my understanding is that they are still considering him as one of a number of options to strengthen their defence this summer.

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Still, well-connected sources now say Arsenal are stepping up their interest as well, as they strongly consider him alongside Valdepenas as an ideal profile to give them a long-term successor to Gabriel Magalhaes.

Gabriel is one of Arsenal’s most important players, but he’s now 28 and arguably starting to show some signs of decline after injury problems both this season and last term.

“Arsenal are looking very closely at Valdepenas and Ramon this summer,” one source said. “Their scouts have watched them several times and the feedback has been really positive. Arteta wants a young centre-back that can eventually become Gabriel’s replacement to partner Saliba.”

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Man United & City transfer target to cost £100-120m, club think they know where he’s going

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Man City plot move to sign West Ham star

Apr 8 2026, 13:45

Report: Chelsea lead Premier League charge for teenage sensation

Apr 8 2026, 13:20

Could Jacobo Ramon return to Real Madrid?

As mentioned above, Real Madrid have favourable conditions to bring Ramon back, so any interest from other clubs could convince them to move.

This is what Los Blancos did with Nico Paz, whom they also sold to Como with a buy-back clause which is set to be triggered this summer.

Still, Madrid signed Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth last summer so arguably don’t need another top young defender quite as much.

The post Sources: Arsenal exploring two centre-back transfers, including Chelsea target appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Mikel Arteta may have breathed a sigh of relief following Arsenal’s gritty 1-0 victory over Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League quarter-final first leg, but the critics remain unconvinced.

Despite getting back to winning ways thanks to a stoppage-time strike from Kai Havertz and crucial saves from goalkeeper David Raya, the Gunners have been issued a stark warning: they are simply not operating at the same elite level as European juggernauts Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.

The sobering assessment was delivered by former Chelsea midfielder and ESPN pundit Craig Burley.

While acknowledging that Arsenal are now overwhelming favorites to reach the semi-finals, where they would face either Barcelona or Atlético Madrid, Burley stressed that navigating the “kinder” side of the draw is masking fundamental shortcomings.

Arsenal have been warned despite winning vs Sporting

‘In terms of the result you obviously take it,’ Burley said on ESPN, as reported by Metro.

‘Sporting are one of the weakest teams left if not the weakest team but Arsenal haven’t been great, we know that.

‘I imagine they’re home and dry after that result barring a disaster at home. No matter who the opposition is, Champions League quarter-finals, you get a 1-0 lead to take back home next week – you’re taking that.

‘They’re going to have to up their game though, if they go through against Sporting, which they should, and get to the semi-finals, if they don’t up their game… I mean, did you see the other game tonight, Real Madrid vs Bayern?

‘At the moment Arsenal, whilst they have everybody talking about the depth of their squad and that they’re probably going to win the Premier League, they need to play better.

‘That level that Bayern and Real Madrid got to today – and we know they can both get better – I don’t think Arsenal… they’ve really got to flick that switch again to get to that level.

‘Is anybody surprised that Arsenal are winning 1-0 away at one of the weakest teams left? That’s all I’m saying.

‘Bigger picture, they have to find the extra gears that they had at the beginning of the season, or they’re not going to win this competition. I’m not being negative, that’s just how it is.’

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Is criticism from Burley justified on Mikel Arteta’s team?

Burley’s critique carries heavy weight when factoring in Arsenal’s recent domestic wobble.

Prior to the hard-fought win in Portugal, the North Londoners suffered agonizing back-to-back defeats, a comprehensive 2-0 loss to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final, followed by a shocking FA Cup quarter-final exit at the hands of Championship side Southampton.

Those stumbles temporarily punctured Arsenal’s aura of invincibility, raising familiar questions about their mental fortitude during the high-stakes spring run-in.

Arteta himself admitted his side had “a point to prove” against Sporting, praising his team’s resilience to win ugly against a side that had been unbeaten in 23 league matches.

However, scraping past a stubborn defensive block in Lisbon is a vastly different challenge than going toe-to-toe with the likes of Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.

Bigger tests will come for Arsenal and Arteta in the coming weeks but so far, they are unbeaten in the Champions League this season and they are the only team that boast such a record.

Arsenal result has just handed Liverpool and Chelsea a massive UCL boost 

The post ‘I’m not being negative’ – Arsenal warned despite winning in Champions League this week appeared first on CaughtOffside.

There were familiar Serie A faces at the Bernabeu on Tuesday as Como coach Cesc Fabregas and Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero crossed paths during Real Madrid-Bayern Munich.

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Como coach Fabregas and Juventus legend Del Piero met at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid last night.

Fabregas was in the stands to watch the Champions League quarter-final first leg between Real Madrid and Bayern, while Del Piero was on the sidelines to comment on the game as a pundit for Sky Sport Italia.

The Italian broadcasters showed the picture of the meeting between Fabregas and Del Piero, who witnessed the Bavarians’ 2-1 victory.

Picture: Fabregas and Del Piero meet during Real Madrid vs. Bayern Munich

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La Gazzetta dello Sport

The Scudetto and the future of the coaches

Chivu: renewal and change

Everything says Conte

Italy coach: Antonio is here. Green light from Napoli.

De Laurentiis: ‘If he asks me to go…’ He’s the right man also for Malagò and Conte

Milan: Gimenez and two wingers (one is Leao). Allegri is looking for goals.

Farewell, Lucescu: a visionary coach who brought his footballers to the museum.

Corriere dello Sport

Without Carlo, it’s not Real

Champions, quarter-final first leg: Bayern win in Madrid (1-2).

A nightmare season for Perez after parting ways from Ancelotti: He’s -7 from Barcelona in La Liga and now risks being eliminated from Europe. Arbeloa at the finishing line: Diaz and Kane decide. Useless Mbappé goal. Arsenal’s coup: Sporting beaten (0-1).

Here’s the scandal

Poor national team

First round after the 3rd World Cup shock: the numbers of the crisis

Only 64 Italian starters out of 220.

Serie A restarted with 70.9% of foreign players. A worrying mismatch, even including substitutions: 28 domestic footballers and 66 foreigners. The ex-CT Spalletti: ‘One U19 always on the pitch.’

‘Napoli worthy of the Scudetto’

The title race with Inter in seven rounds

DeLa: ‘There’s a little hope, we would have won without injuries.’ Fixture lists compared: Como is the first danger for Chivu.

Juve: Vlahovic returns in May

Calf lesion and at least three weeks out: he’ll miss Atalanta, Bologna and Milan. Back with Verona.

Farewell, Mircea, the Italian of Bucarest.

Tuttosport

Now Spalletti’s moves are needed

McKennie out, Vlahovic’s loss, Champions League priority: inscrutable Juve

Shocked by the highs and lows of his players, who still moved one point behind the fourth spot. Lucio must invent something for the final part of the season. The Texan is suspended against Atalanta. The Serbian is injured for three more weeks, raising further doubts about the renewal. Nunez emerges again, and the dream is to have reinforcements with personality. Di Gregorio returns as a starter and gets emotional.

Conte CT? Go ahead!

The Napoli owner is open, but with an exception: ‘Antonio is intelligent, I don’t think he’d accept offers without a serious interlocutor.’ Hypothesis of a double appointment.

Bayern gift a Real show, Arsenal coup

A stroke took Lucescu away from us

The visionary globetrotter

He has coached everywhere and invented the match analysis. Culture, friendliness, 36 trophies and UEFA Cup with Shakhtar.

Toro, Belghali arrives for the right flank

Less than a year after orchestrating a stunning Premier League title triumph in his debut campaign, Liverpool manager Arne Slot finds himself firmly on the brink.

The 2025/26 season has rapidly unravelled for the Dutch tactician, culminating in a humiliating 4-0 FA Cup quarter-final thrashing at the hands of Manchester City.

With fan unrest growing and the threat of the sack looming large, the Anfield hierarchy is reportedly scrutinising Slot’s position as the club’s domestic and European ambitions hang by a thread.

Beyond the domestic cup exit, the Reds have suffered a staggering ten Premier League defeats, leaving them in a desperate dogfight simply to secure a top-four finish.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown has claimed that the players are as much to blame for Liverpool’s downfall this season as manager Slot.

Salah and Van Dijk named as players for letting Slot down

Two of the team’s most senior players Mohamed Salah and Virgil Van Dijk have been named by Brown for not helping the manager save their season.

Having signed new deals at the club last year, both Salah and Van Dijk were expected to hit new heights but their form has struggled massively this season.

So much that Salah has even announced that he will leave the club at the end of the season for a new adventure.

“Slot has been thrown under the bus at Liverpool,” Brown told Football Insider.

“Look through the squad, how many of them can you say have really performed to their top level? But it’s the manager who picks up the bill for it.

“He’s been badly let down by a number of his senior players.

“Van Dijk has got a brilliant reputation which has been well-earned, but he hasn’t performed anywhere close to his usual standard this season.

“Salah as well, we’ve spoken about him a number of times and the fact he’s dropped off.

“Then looking through the team, you’ve got players like Ibrahima Konate for example who again has been nowhere near the level required of him.

“So all of these things start to add up, but eventually it’s the manager who has to deal with it when results aren’t going their way.

“If Slot does get sacked by Liverpool, the players are just as much to blame as anything else.”

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What does the future hold for Slot at Liverpool?

The mounting crisis has inevitably sparked intense speculation regarding Slot’s immediate future.

Rumours circulating across various outlets suggest that FSG has brought forward an end-of-season review, with whispers even indicating that Slot might be open to stepping down if a suitable severance package is agreed upon.

While some internal sources maintain that there is no imminent panic to sack him before the summer, recognising the mitigating circumstances of horrific injuries, the shadow of former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso looms large.

To survive the looming summer review and convince FSG to back him for a third season, Slot must immediately galvanise his disjointed squad, salvage a Champions League qualification spot, and present a convincing, unified front against PSG.

Merseyside makeover: Liverpool have two big Premier League stars on radar for summer rebuild 

The post ‘If Slot does get sacked by Liverpool’ – Expert names two players for letting Arne Slot down appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham are all understood to be in talks over a potential free transfer swoop for Bournemouth centre-back Marcos Senesi.

Sources with a close understanding of the situation have provided me with an update on Senesi’s situation after I previously reported on Chelsea exploring a deal.

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The 28-year-old looks to have a growing list of options available to him, with Liverpool and Spurs also touching base with his representatives ahead of a potential summer move.

Depending on who you talk to, though, it seems a move to La Liga is considered more likely, with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid felt to be leading the race for his signature.

Marcos Senesi transfer situation explained

“Senesi is yet to make a final decision on his future, but Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have been in talks for some time,” one source said. “I wouldn’t rule out Premier League clubs just yet, but a move to Spain is more likely.”

“Keep an eye on Chelsea because they’re growing increasingly aware of the need to add some experience. With Senesi set to be available on a free he’s an ideal candidate,” another source explained.

Meanwhile, Liverpool and Tottenham are both keen amid doubts over their current defensive options, with Ibrahima Konate heading towards the end of his contract, while Cristian Romero is understood to be likely to leave Spurs this summer.

Even if Konate signs a new deal with LFC, they could do with more options at the back after a dip in form from the ageing Virgil van Dijk.

Marcos Senesi wants playing time and big contract

It’s also my understanding that Senesi could have very high wage demands as he prepares to make his next move, with this likely to be the last big contract of his career.

It remains to be seen which club is most willing to give the Argentine the kind of money he wants, but it will be an important factor, as will playing time.

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Senesi has shown himself to be a key performer at Bournemouth and one source described him as “very confident he can shine at a higher level.”

It will be interesting to see which club can offer Senesi the kind of role he wants, but it’s certainly easy to imagine him having a positive impact and playing regularly for a variety of top teams.

The post Sources: Liverpool, Chelsea & Spurs all in talks to sign in-form 28-year-old appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has spoken out on two potential replacements for Mohamed Salah at Anfield this summer.

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The Reds are set to bid farewell to Salah, with Michael Olise understood to be one of their main candidates to replace him, though a deal perhaps looks a bit unrealistic.

Gerrard is a big fan of Olise, but he also admitted he’d be happy to see Liverpool re-sign Luis Diaz from Bayern Munich.

The Colombia international has looked outstanding since leaving Liverpool to join Bayern last summer, and it’s a bit puzzling that the Merseyside giants let him go.

Steven Gerrard missing Luis Diaz at Liverpool

One imagines many Liverpool fans are starting to wonder why their club let Diaz leave, and Gerrard says he’s missing the 29-year-old, who has an impressive 23 goals and 14 assists in all competitions for Bayern this season.

Discussing the Olise to Liverpool links, as quoted by the Metro, Gerrard said: “The problem is, why would he (Olise) leave Bayern? A big club, challenging for the big honours, and they are probably the strongest Bayern Munich team we have seen for a while.

“He is about to take the World Cup by storm come the summer. He looks like a really happy kid, settled, to me, I don’t think he’s going anywhere.

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“But, yes, would I love him at Liverpool. And you know what, I wouldn’t mind Diaz back as well. I’m missing him, I’m missing him.”

Luis Diaz vs Liverpool’s other attacking players

Diaz was a key performer for LFC and it seems clear now that he could have been their ideal replacement for Salah.

Just see below for how his numbers compare to Arne Slot’s current crop of attacking players…

Liverpool probably won’t stand much of a chance of bringing Diaz back now as Bayern will surely do their best to keep him, but it’s another major transfer error to go alongside the huge amounts spent on flops like Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz.

The post “You know what…” – Gerrard names surprise potential Salah replacement for Liverpool appeared first on CaughtOffside.

When evaluating the monumental evolution of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, it is incredibly easy to be mesmerised by the outfield superstars.

It is tempting to point to the sheer match-winning brilliance of Bukayo Saka on the right flank, or the relentless, ground-covering engine of Declan Rice in midfield.

It is equally easy to look at the imposing, brick-wall partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães and declare them the definitive bedrock of the team.

They are all unequivocally world-class. Yet, if you strip away the layers of Arsenal’s tactical blueprint, the most indispensable player, the absolute linchpin of the entire system, wears the number 22 shirt. David Raya is Arsenal’s most important player.

The Cost of Absence: Domestic Cup Struggles

To understand Raya’s profound value, one must look no further than what happens when he is removed from the equation.

The recent domestic cup stumbles offered a stark, sobering reality check. During the painful League Cup final defeat to Manchester City, Arsenal looked utterly disjointed in their build-up phase.

Without Raya’s supreme composure and pinpoint distribution, City’s high press suffocated the backline.

Similarly, the frustrating FA Cup quarterfinal exit at the hands of Southampton laid bare the defensive anxiety that creeps in when Raya isn’t there to act as the ultimate sweeping insurance policy.

The defenders dropped deeper, the midfield was bypassed, and the entire geometry of Arteta’s possession-heavy system fractured.

The Tactical Trigger: More Than Just a Goalkeeper

Raya is not merely a goalkeeper; he is Arsenal’s deep-lying playmaker and the tactical trigger for their attacks.

His ability to thread a pass through the first line of pressure or drop a 50-yard diagonal ball perfectly onto Saka’s chest allows the likes of Rice, Saliba, and Gabriel to operate with absolute supreme confidence.

They play higher and press harder because they know their goalkeeper is both a tactical genius with his feet and a commanding sweeper behind them.

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Shining on the European Stage

Furthermore, any lingering doubts regarding his traditional shot-stopping abilities were emphatically silenced on the grandest European stage.

In the Champions League quarterfinal first leg against Sporting CP, Raya was nothing short of a revelation.

Earning a thoroughly deserved Man of the Match award, he single-handedly kept Arsenal in the tie during periods of intense Portuguese pressure, producing a string of breathtaking reflex saves while continuing to dictate the tempo from his own penalty area.

Strikers sell shirts, and defenders win titles, but a transformative modern goalkeeper elevates a great system into an elite, unstoppable force.

Arsenal result has just handed Liverpool and Chelsea a massive UCL boost

The post The irreplaceable anchor: The most important Arsenal player is not a midfielder or defender appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United are bracing for a massive midfield overhaul this summer, with the club actively scouring the market for at least two high-profile additions.

According to The Sun, club captain Bruno Fernandes is expected to play an influential role in recruitment discussions by recommending fellow Portuguese midfielder Mateus Fernandes, currently at West Ham United.

With experienced Brazilian midfielder Casemiro widely expected to depart once his contract reaches its conclusion, United are entering a transitional phase in midfield.

The club has already been linked with several potential replacements, including Nottingham Forest standout Elliot Anderson which shows that the rebuild in the midfield will be high on their agenda in the summer transfer window.

Man United are losing Casemiro in the summer

The primary catalyst for this aggressive summer recruitment drive is the confirmed exit of Casemiro.

The 34-year-old Brazilian international will officially leave Old Trafford when his contract expires at the end of the 2025/26 season, concluding a four-year stint in Manchester.

Despite a recent resurgence in form that saw supporters passionately chanting for him to stay, an emotional tribute that Casemiro admitted brought his wife to tears, the mutual decision for him to move on has been finalised.

His departure will free up significant space on the wage bill, but it simultaneously leaves a massive void in the heart of United’s starting XI that must be addressed.

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Fernandes wants Portuguese connection in the midfield

To help fill that gap, Man United captain is advocating for a familiar face.

The West Ham United midfielder has impressed during his time in East London, showcasing the technical security, energy, and progressive passing that United have often lacked in the middle of the park.

For Fernandes, integrating a compatriot who already understands the intense physical demands of the Premier League could provide immediate stability and a seamless tactical fit alongside Kobbie Mainoo.

The Red Devils are also deeply entangled in a bidding war for Nottingham Forest standout Anderson.

The English midfielder has enjoyed a stellar campaign at the City Ground, but securing his services will be a complex operation.

Recent reports suggest United face fierce competition from cross-town rivals Manchester City, who have also registered serious interest.

Report: Man United join European race for 19-year-old defensive gem

The post Bruno Fernandes urges Man United to sign Portugal teammate as his midfield partner appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea are reportedly ready to join the race for the transfer of Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall to replace Marc Cucurella this summer.

Hall was previously in Chelsea’s academy but managed only 12 first-team appearances before leaving to join Newcastle, where he’s improved a great deal.

According to Fichajes, the Blues are now keen to bring Hall back to the club in a potential £70m deal, with the England international being targeted to replace Cucurella.

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The report states that Cucurella could leave Stamford Bridge, and this perhaps makes sense after he recently signalled he was unsettled with this current CFC project.

Lewis Hall to replace Marc Cucurella?

Cucurella has been a key player for Chelsea, but his recent comments to the Athletic suggest he’s not happy with how things have been going with the west London giants.

“I understand this is part of the club’s policy, and that they want to take this direction — signing young players and looking to the future. But, for all of us who are still here and want to win big things, moments like this make you feel discouraged,” he said.

He added: “We have a good core of players. The foundations are there. But to fight for major trophies such as the Premier League or the Champions League, you need more.”

If Cucurella isn’t happy then it’s surely wise to move him on, with Hall potentially looking like he could be an upgrade anyway.

See the table above for our Transfer Fit rating for Hall to Chelsea – and click here to find out more about how we score these.

Chelsea not alone in targeting Lewis Hall

Hall’s fine form looks to have him in contention for a place in England’s 2026 World Cup squad, and it’s also seen him linked with other big clubs.

Sky Sports have linked the 21-year-old with Manchester United, while we’ve also previously been informed of the likes of Arsenal and Liverpool monitoring his situation.

United will be an interesting one to watch as they look like they could definitely do with Hall as a long-term successor to the ageing Luke Shaw, while Patrick Dorgu looks like he could shift to a more attacking role in the long term.

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Chelsea will no doubt hope that Hall fancies a move back to his former club as a priority, but he might also feel that that ship has sailed and that it would be better to try a different kind of challenge if he is to leave St James’ Park.

Newcastle surely won’t be keen to sell, however, after losing Alexander Isak last summer and with the threat of other star names like Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon potentially leaving this year.

The post Report: Chelsea rival Man Utd for £70m transfer to replace unsettled Blues star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Blackburn Rovers’ promising young defender Tom Atcheson is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after teenage talents in British football, with multiple Premier League clubs monitoring his development closely.

According to reports from TEAMtalk, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle United are among the leading English sides keeping tabs on the 19-year-old centre-back, whose rapid rise at club and international level has drawn widespread attention.

Atcheson’s breakthrough into senior football with Blackburn, combined with his growing role for Northern Ireland under manager Michael O’Neill, has elevated his profile significantly.

The increased exposure has not only caught the eye of England’s top-flight clubs but has also sparked strong interest from leading teams across Europe, suggesting Blackburn could soon face intense competition to keep hold of one of their most valuable prospects.

Rapid development at Blackburn earns Man United interest

Atcheson’s progression through the ranks at Blackburn Rovers has been both swift and impressive.

Having initially built his reputation within the club’s youth system, he has made a seamless transition into senior football, a step that often separates promising academy players from genuine first-team prospects.

Modern centre-backs are increasingly expected to contribute to build-up play as well as defensive duties, and Atcheson’s ability to read the game and distribute possession confidently has made him particularly appealing to clubs that prioritise possession-based football.

Alongside the interest from Man United, Tottenham, and Newcastle, several other Premier League sides, including Everton, Brentford, Brighton & Hove Albion, and newly promoted Sunderland, are also believed to be tracking his progress.

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International exposure adds to growing reputation

Atcheson’s inclusion in Northern Ireland’s senior setup has further enhanced his reputation.

Under O’Neill, he has been given opportunities to train and compete alongside experienced international players, accelerating his development and exposing him to higher tactical demands.

The intrigue surrounding the young Northern Irishman extends far beyond British shores.

In an era where top continental clubs actively scout the English lower leagues for undervalued gems, Atcheson has caught the eye of several European giants.

Bundesliga powerhouses RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund, both renowned for nurturing young British exports like Jude Bellingham and Jadon Sancho into global stars, are meticulously tracking his progress.

Meanwhile, in Serie A, both Atalanta and Napoli have placed the defender, currently valued at roughly £10 million, firmly on their radar, hoping to lure him to Italy with the promise of top-flight European competition.

Man United preparing lifeline move for underused 23-year-old French prodigy

The post Report: Man United join European race for 19-year-old defensive gem appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham are reportedly weighing up a move for highly rated England goalkeeper James Trafford as uncertainty grows over the future of current number one Guglielmo Vicario.

With Italian giants Inter Milan believed to be monitoring Vicario’s situation, Spurs are already exploring contingency plans to safeguard their goalkeeping depth ahead of the upcoming transfer window, according to The Sun.

Vicario has been a central fixture in goal since his arrival from Empoli in 2023, but his future at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium appears increasingly uncertain.

The Italian international has endured a remarkably difficult 2025/26 campaign.

Inter Milan interest raises question over Vicario’s future

With Inter Milan aggressively searching for a long-term successor to veteran Yann Sommer, a return to his homeland is highly appealing to Vicario.

Recent reports out of Italy indicate that the Nerazzurri have already made significant headway, allegedly agreeing on personal terms for a lucrative €3.5 million-per-season contract.

Should Inter decide to formalise their interest with a significant offer, Tottenham could face a difficult decision.

Losing an established first-choice goalkeeper would create a major gap in the squad, one that requires careful planning well in advance.

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James Trafford emerges as a target for Tottenham

In anticipation of any potential developments, Tottenham have reportedly identified Trafford as a leading candidate to fill the void should Vicario depart.

Trafford gained widespread recognition during England’s triumph at the UEFA European Under-21 Championship, where his performances were instrumental to the team’s success.

He joined Man City in the summer transfer window but his playing time has been limited at the Etihad Stadium due to the presence of Guanluigi Donnarumma.

For Tottenham, signing Trafford makes immense tactical sense. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-6, he offers exceptional aerial command of the penalty area.

More importantly, his education in Manchester City’s youth system has made him highly adept with the ball at his feet, a vital requirement for Roberto De Zerbi’s high-risk, build-up-focused tactical blueprint.

Tottenham plot summer move for €100 million-rated Argentine forward

The post Tottenham targeting Man City star as major changes are expected in summer window appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly prepared to pay as much as €100m to sign Estevao Willian from Chelsea in an ambitious transfer.

The highly-rated Brazilian wonderkid only joined the Blues last summer, and has mostly impressed in his first season at Stamford Bridge.

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According to Fichajes, PSG are now seriously considering making a big bid for Estevao, who could potentially be brought in to replace Bradley Barcola amid some uncertainty over his future.

Chelsea surely won’t be at all keen to let Estevao go, however, as they’re yet to see the very best of the 18-year-old, who surely has a long and successful career ahead of him.

CFC will have signed Estevao with a view to the future, so it makes little sense for them to be cashing in on him already, even if there is perhaps a chance that they’d be tempted to do so at some point in the future.

Estevao the latest Chelsea star linked with a transfer away

These are slightly worrying times for Liam Rosenior’s side as performances on the pitch have not been good enough and there have been plenty of Chelsea transfer rumours involving star players leaving the club.

Enzo Fernandez has been suspended after comments he made recently which hinted at a desire to leave, and he’s also reported to be ready to hand in a transfer request, according to El Chiringuito (as cited and translated by Goal).

Cole Palmer is another who keeps attracting speculation, with the Sun reporting that he’s unhappy in west London.

Liam Rosenior on Estevao

Rosenior was full of praise for Estevao after his performance in the FA Cup win over Port Vale, with the teenager looking back to his best after some recent injury problems.

“He enjoys playing football and just wants to get on the ball. Wherever he is on the pitch he’s a threat, and he’s going to be a real, real plus for us going into the run-in,” Rosenior said.

PSG would surely love to have a talent like that on their hands, and they have the money to afford it, but this still looks like a tricky deal that’s unlikely to happen any time soon.

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Harry Maguire has reportedly turned down the opportunity to move to Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, opting instead to extend his stay at Manchester United and reaffirm his commitment to the club.

According to The Sun, the experienced England international had the chance to consider a switch to the United States but ultimately chose stability at Old Trafford, where he is said to be determined to see out the remainder of his career.

The decision shows both Maguire’s renewed role within the squad and his desire to continue competing at the highest level of European football.

After a period of uncertainty surrounding his future in recent seasons, the 33-year-old defender appears to have rediscovered a sense of purpose at Man United.

Maguire’s resurgence strengthens his position at Man United

Maguire’s situation at Man United has evolved significantly over the past few seasons.

Once facing intense scrutiny and speculation over a potential departure, the centre-back has gradually worked his way back into contention through consistent performances and professionalism.

Earlier transfer windows saw clubs such as West Ham United linked with moves for the defender, while reports suggested United were open to offers as part of a wider squad rebuild.

However, Maguire’s resilience has played a major role in shifting perceptions. His ability to step in during injury crises and deliver dependable performances has earned him renewed respect among supporters.

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Why Inter Miami’s interest was significant

Interest from Inter Miami demonstrates how Maguire’s reputation extends beyond the Premier League.

The MLS club, co-owned by David Beckham, has been aggressive in targeting established European names to strengthen their squad and raise their global profile.

The decision to stay was not without lucrative alternatives. Alongside the recent interest from Inter Miami, Maguire was previously courted by the Saudi Pro League, with staggering contract offers reportedly circling over the past year.

However, the defender has consistently prioritised his competitive legacy over financial windfalls.

By declining the chance to wind down his career in MLS, Maguire has signaled a deep desire to close out his playing days on his own terms in Manchester.

Man United begin work on move for “outstanding” 26-year-old amid contract uncertainty

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Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado has reportedly told his agent to get him a transfer away from the club this summer after a lack of playing time.

The 22-year-old has struggled to establish himself as a regular in Hansi Flick’s side, starting only nine La Liga games and two Champions League matches this season.

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Casado has been on Arsenal’s radar in recent times and it now looks like he’s eager to leave Barcelona, according to Cadena SER.

Barca director Deco is said to be aware of the situation, and this will likely have other clubs on alert as well.

Where next for Marc Casado?

Casado is a talented player who’s been unfortunate to be up against a lot of competition in this Barcelona side, so he’ll surely have some decent offers this summer.

Manchester United have also previously been mentioned as admirers of the Spain international in a report from Football Insider, and the Red Devils could do with strengthening in midfield for next season.

Arsenal might also do well to add some depth in that department, though it’s perhaps also hard to imagine Casado starting a lot of games at the Emirates Stadium due to the presence of Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi.

Still, there’s some risk in moving for someone like Casado after a season spent mostly on the bench, so perhaps he’ll have to wait before getting himself another big move.

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Casado came up through Barcelona’s academy, so it could be a smart move for them to sell him if he’s not performing, as it gives them the chance to make pure profit on a player they didn’t have to spend a transfer fee on in the past.

Barca fans like seeing homegrown players coming through, but Casado is perhaps not quite at the right level for this team, and the club also have long-standing financial issues that need to come into consideration.

The post From Spain: Arsenal & Man Utd transfer target instructs agent to get him transfer this summer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Following a challenging 2025/26 campaign under manager Arne Slot, Liverpool are reportedly laying the groundwork for a comprehensive summer squad restructuring.

With the club eager to reclaim its status as a dominant force across all domestic and European competitions, the Anfield hierarchy has begun compiling a shortlist of top-tier Premier League talent.

According to recent reports circulating on X, the Reds have identified Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba and Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon as two primary targets to spearhead their upcoming rebuild

Liverpool want to bolster the engine room with Baleba

Liverpool’s midfield has been a frequent area of concern this season, often appearing outmatched physically in critical transitions.

To solve this recurring issue, the recruitment team has turned its attention to 22-year-old Baleba.

The Cameroonian international has been a revelation since arriving at Brighton in 2023 for approximately €27 million.

He is known for his raw power, relentless ball-recovery skills, and progressive carrying ability.

However, prying the young star away from the Amex Stadium will be no simple feat. The Seagulls are notoriously tough negotiators and will undoubtedly demand a premium fee for one of their most promising assets.

Liverpool are not alone in their pursuit, several other top European clubs are actively monitoring Baleba’s rapid development.

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Reigniting the chase for Newcastle United star Gordon

On the attacking front, Liverpool are once again circling Newcastle United’s electric winger Gordon.

The 25-year-old England international has been on the Reds’ radar for well over a year.

While Gordon previously dismissed exit rumors to focus on his current club, the financial realities at St James’ Park could eventually force a reluctant sale.

Gordon’s stats this season

Liverpool’s intentions are crystal clear, the squad needs a serious injection of Premier League-proven physicality and pace.

Securing Baleba would provide the midfield anchor they have been missing, while adding Gordon would supercharge an already dangerous attacking line.

Navigating complex negotiations with Brighton and Newcastle will be a massive test for the club’s sporting directors, but executing this double coup would send a resounding statement of intent ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Liverpool tracking €40m Brazilian dynamo to solve creativity crisis 

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Chelsea are hoping to sign Vinicius Junior from Real Madrid at the end of the season.

According to a report from Spain, they have already made a formal enquiry for the 25-year-old Brazilian, and it remains to be seen whether they follow up with an official proposal to him.

Vinicius has also been linked with Liverpool and Arsenal.

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Chelsea eye Vinicius Junior move

Real Madrid were hoping to secure a contract with the South American attacker, but negotiations between the two parties have reached a dead end. Chelsea is looking to capitalise on the situation and secure his signature.

The 25-year-old is a world-class player who could make a big difference in Chelsea’s attack. The Blues invested in players like Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens at the start of the season. However, both players have been underwhelming. Chelsea needs more cutting-edge in the final third, and a 25-year-old could transform them.

He is exceptional when it comes to taking on defenders in one-versus-one situations, and he will add explosive pace and unpredictability to the attack. Vinicius has 17 goals and 13 assists this season.

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Premier League move could tempt Vinicius

The opportunity to move to the Premier League could be exciting for the Brazilian. He has shown his quality in La Liga, and he has won major trophies with Real. He could be taking a new challenge now.

Meanwhile, Chelsea could offer him a lucrative contract as well. The report claims that they could offer him a salary in excess of £500,000 per week. It remains to be seen how the situation develops. Real Madrid will not want to lose the player easily, and they could demand a premium for him. Chelsea would have to break the bank to get the deal done.

The post Chelsea make enquiry for blockbuster signing, 30-G/A star could earn £500k-a-week appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United are interested in signing the Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck at the end of the season.

The 26-year-old is facing an uncertain future at the German club, and Manchester United are hoping to capitalise on his situation and secure his services.

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Man United begin work on Nico Schlotterbeck move

According to reports from Spain, Manchester United have already begun preliminary steps to secure his services. The defender has a contract with the German club until 2027, and the club has not been able to agree on a new deal. It will be interesting to see if he is prepared to move to the Premier League.

Manchester United need a quality long-term replacement for Harry Maguire, and the German international would be ideal. He has shown that he is a reliable defender, and he has the physicality and technical attributes for English football as well. Apart from his defensive qualities, he is excellent on the ball, and his distribution skills could add a new dimension to Manchester United.

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Schlotterbeck move could be ideal for all parties

Given his contract situation, he could be available for a reasonable sum in the summer. The opportunity to move to England could be exciting for him, and Manchester United are among the biggest clubs in the world. The Premier League side is confident that it can present a financial and sporting offer that will be irresistible to the German international.

It remains to be seen how the situation develops. The player has been linked with multiple clubs over the last few months. Manchester United must act quickly if they want to win the race for his signature. The 26-year-old is likely to be a hot commodity in the market this summer. Schlotterbeck has been hailed as “outstanding” by Julian Nagelsmann.

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Inter Miami have struggled to live up to the expectations that surrounded them heading into the season, suffering an early setback with an earlier-than-expected elimination from the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup. The Herons’ inconsistent run has now cost them in the standings, with Lionel Messi‘s side dropping four places in the CONCACAF club rankings.

Ahead of the start of both the 2026 MLS season and the Champions Cup back in February, CONCACAF published their updated club rankings with Inter Miami sitting third, ahead of every MLS side and trailing only Toluca and Cruz Azul. Two months on, the picture looks considerably different for the Herons.

Cruz Azul has since overtaken Toluca as the top-ranked club in CONCACAF, while Inter Miami have tumbled from third down to seventh in the same two-month span. The Herons have been leapfrogged by Seattle Sounders, LAFC, Club America and Tigres UANL, all of whom have boosted their standing by advancing to the quarterfinals of the current Champions Cup.

Nashville’s series: the biggest blow for Inter Miami

As CONCACAF explains, its rankings are calculated using a weighted system that factors in performances across domestic leagues, national cups, continental tournaments and global competitions. Inter Miami had climbed to third on the strength of their 2025 MLS Cup triumph, but their recent results have steadily eroded that standing.

The most damaging blow came in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, where Messi and company entered directly at the Round of 16 and were promptly knocked out by Nashville SC in a shocking upset. Combined with an inconsistent MLS campaign featuring three wins, two draws and one defeat, the Herons have seen their status as one of the continent’s dominant clubs take a significant hit.

Are Inter Miami relying too much on Messi?

Inter Miami’s slide in the CONCACAF rankings is also a reflection of a broader concern about the team’s overall trajectory, having fallen short in one of their primary objectives for the 2026 season. The issue is not a decline in Messi’s individual level, but rather the extent to which the team has become dependent on him to produce.

Through six MLS games, Inter Miami have scored 11 goals, with Messi leading the way as the team’s top scorer with five. No other player has managed more than one goal, with the rest of the tally spread across six different scorers including Mateo Silvetti, Telasco Segovia, Rodrigo De Paul, Gonzalo Luján, Micael and most recently Luis Suárez, while designated strikers Tadeo Allende and German Berterame have struggled to find the net.

The lack of firepower from the supporting cast is further highlighted by Messi’s own numbers, as the Argentine has yet to register a single assist through five MLS appearances despite posting an expected assists figure of 1.71 on SofaScore and averaging 2.2 key passes per game.

After finishing the 2025 regular season with 81 goals in 34 games, a rate of 2.4 per match, Inter Miami’s current average of 1.8 goals per game is a sign of a team running well below its capabilities, and a problem head coach Javier Mascherano will need to address sooner rather than later.

Alexander Isak has been included in Liverpool’s squad for their Champions League quarter-final first leg against Paris Saint-Germain. The 26-year-old has been sidelined since December after suffering an ankle injury and fibula fracture during Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Tottenham. The striker has made just 16 appearances for the Reds since his £125m move from Newcastle […]

The post Isak included in Liverpool squad for PSG clash appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Isak included in Liverpool squad for PSG clash appeared first on Soccer News.

Cristiano Ronaldo heads into another decisive Matchday with Al-Nassr, but fresh injury concerns have disrupted preparations. The club will be without Inigo Martinez for the upcoming clash against Al-Okhdood, while uncertainty also surrounds Kingsley Coman and Joao Felix, as fitness questions linger.

The absence of key figures arrives at a critical point in the season. With the title race tightening, every selection decision now carries added weight for the league leader.  Al-Nassr enters the Round 28 fixture against Al-Okhdood sitting top of the Saudi Pro League with 70 points, maintaining a five-point advantage over Al-Hilal.

The club has built momentum through consistent results, including a commanding victory over Al-Najma in the previous round. At the same time, rivals have shown signs of vulnerability, with Al-Hilal dropping points and Al-Qadisiyah slipping to defeat. These results have strengthened Al-Nassr’s grip on first place, but the margin remains narrow enough to demand full focus.

The biggest immediate setback comes with the confirmed absence of Inigo Martinez. The Spanish defender continues his recovery from a hamstring injury and has not yet returned to full group training.

According to Arriyadiyah, he has been limited to light running and individual training as part of his rehabilitation process. His absence removes an experienced defensive option at a time when stability at the back is essential.

Fitness update on Coman and Felix emerges

As a result, attention has also turned to Kingsley Coman and Joao Felix, whose fitness situations have been closely monitored. Arriyadiyah’s latest update suggests that both players are still undergoing rehabilitation and are yet to be fully integrated into group training, leaving their availability uncertain.

Coman has resumed individual training after partial participation, with a final decision expected closer to Saturday’s Matchday. Felix, meanwhile, remains on a structured recovery program alongside other teammates dealing with muscle-related issues. The report adds that medical and technical staff continue to manage these cases carefully to avoid setbacks, highlighting the cautious approach being taken.

Several players set to return on the pitch

The absence and uncertainty surrounding multiple players’ places added pressure on the squad depth. While some players, including Mohamed Simakan and Abdullah Al-Hamdan, have returned to fitness, others are still working toward full recovery.

This situation forces the coaching staff to carefully balance short-term results with long-term player health. Managing workloads has become a recurring theme as the season approaches its decisive phase.

Cristiano Ronaldo continues to lead the charge as Al-Nassr pushes deeper into a remarkable run of form this season. The Saudi giant has once again found itself in the spotlight after matching one of its own historic achievements, further underlining its dominance in the Saudi Pro League. The latest victory, a commanding performance against Al-Najma, reinforced Al-Nassr’s position at the top of the table.

Momentum is firmly on their side as the title race approaches its decisive phase. Al-Nassr delivered a statement performance with a 5-2 victory over Al-Najma at Al-Awwal Park. Jorge Jesus’s players controlled the match from start to finish, showcasing their attacking strength and depth in quality.

What’s more, Cristiano Ronaldo played a key role in the win, contributing to the scoreline alongside teammates who stepped up in crucial moments. The attacking trio, supported by a well-organized midfield, ensured Al-Najma struggled throughout the game.

It was in the aftermath of last weekend’s victory that the significance of the result became clear. Al-Nassr’s latest success marked its 13th consecutive league win, equaling the longest winning streak in the club’s history, a record previously set between 2013 and 2014. According to Opta statistics, the team equaled its longest winning streak in its history in the Saudi top division.

Ronaldo’s impact in a record-breaking run

Cristiano Ronaldo has been central to this historic run, continuing to deliver in key moments. During the match, he added to his tally of 23 with a brace, demonstrating his enduring influence in front of goal.

His contribution goes beyond scoring, as he remains a focal point in the team’s attacking structure. With 97 goals in 100 league appearances, Ronaldo’s efficiency continues to set the standard for the squad.

Consistency across the campaign

Al-Nassr’s form hasn’t been limited to a single stretch of fixtures. The Riyadh outfit has shown a unique ability to maintain momentum since January 2026, including a perfect record in matches following international breaks this season.

This consistency has allowed the squad to build a strong lead at the top of the standings. With 70 points after 27 rounds, they remain ahead of their closest challengers, Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli, keeping control of the title race.

Denis Bouanga was one of the standout performers of Matchday 6 in the 2026 MLS season, scoring a hat trick in LAFC‘s dominant 6-0 win over Orlando City. The Gabonese striker claimed his fifth career MLS Player of the Matchday award in the process, though he still has plenty of ground to make up on Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi and Nashville SC’s Hany Mukhtar.

In Saturday’s rout of Orlando, Son Heung-min turned heads by registering four assists in the first half alone, matching one of Messi’s records in the process, though three of those passes set up Bouanga, who made no mistake in front of goal. MLS opted to award the goalscorer over the South Korean as the match’s standout player.

It marked Bouanga’s first Player of the Matchday honor of the 2026 season and the fifth of his MLS career since joining LAFC in 2022. That total places him among the top three active players in the category, trailing only Mukhtar and Messi.

Keeping pace with that duo, however, will be no easy feat. Mukhtar sits second on the all-time active list with eight Player of the Matchday awards since arriving at Nashville SC in 2020.

Topping that list is an even steeper climb. Messi leads all active players with 13 MLS Matchday awards, eight more than Bouanga, having become the first player to claim six across back-to-back seasons in 2024 and 2025. He has already added another in 2026, taking home the Matchday 2 honor, also against Orlando City, a strong sign that his form shows no signs of fading.

Bouanga chasing hat-trick record

Unlike Messi and Mukhtar, who operate more as playmakers, Bouanga has built his MLS reputation on his goal-scoring ability. Saturday’s hat trick pushed his regular-season contributions to 99, with 69 goals and 30 assists in 107 games. Netting all three goals within the first 28 minutes also made it the fourth-fastest hat trick from the opening whistle in MLS history.

One milestone he is firmly chasing is the all-time MLS regular-season hat-trick record. His tally now stands at five, leaving him within striking distance of Josef Martinez’s mark of seven. By contrast, Messi has scored just two MLS hat tricks, both with Inter Miami, with the most recent coming in October 2025 against Nashville.

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard was seen engaged in a lengthy and animated discussion with manager Mikel Arteta after being substituted during the Gunners’ hard-fought 1-0 Champions League victory over Sporting CP on Tuesday night.

The Norwegian playmaker was replaced by Kai Havertz, who went on to score the winning goal, in the 70th minute.

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Before taking his place on the bench, Odegaard appeared to be explaining a physical issue to Arteta, pointing toward his leg while visibly grimacing.

According to BBC Sport Arsenal reporter Alex Howell: “Martin Odegaard comes off and seems to have a bit of a limp. He did have treatment before being replaced by Kai Havertz. He has a long talk with Mikel Arteta before sitting on the bench too.”

Arteta later confirmed in his post-match comments that while the substitution was “partly tactical,” it was also a “precautionary” measure given the player’s recent fitness struggles.

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Martin Odegaard has had an injury marred season

The sight of Odegaard limping will be a major concern for Arsenal supporters, as the midfielder has endured a “nightmare” 2025/26 campaign plagued by recurring issues.

Odegaard injuries this season via transfermarkt

Having only recently returned to the starting lineup following a month-long layoff with a knee problem, this latest “muscular blow” in Lisbon puts his availability for the second leg and the critical Premier League run-in at risk.

With Arsenal currently missing Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber, losing their creative engine once again would be a catastrophic blow to their hopes of a historic European and domestic double.

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Kai Havertz popped up with a stoppage-time goal to snatch Arsenal a much-needed 1-0 win over Sporting CP in the Champions League quarter-final first leg. It looked like Arsenal were set to ensure another frustrating outing, but Havertz came off the bench to net another late goal for the Gunners, giving them a lead to […]

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The post Sporting CP 0-1 Arsenal: Havertz snatches dramatic late winner in quarter-final first leg appeared first on Soccer News.

Approaching the end of his professional career, Lionel Messi is regarded by many as the greatest player of all time. However, in that debate, other heavyweights come into play, such as Diego Maradona, whom Italy icon Dino Baggio considered the number one.

During an interview with Diario AS, the former Juventus and Parma midfielder was asked about his view of modern soccer, particularly Serie A, comparing it with the 1980s and 1990s. Baggio acknowledged that it was more difficult to play in Italy back then: “Perhaps Messi could have had problems here in his day.”

That led the conversation toward the differences in soccer over the years. Dino based his opinion on the fact that a few decades ago referees were more lenient when it came to physical contact, resulting in a harsher sport for talented players.

“Today, fouls are called before contact, practically,” Baggio noted, before highlighting who he considered the best player in the world during those years. “Maradona, in modern times, would score a thousand goals per season. You can’t imagine what they would hit him with when he was at Napoli,” said the 1994 FIFA World Cup finalist.

Immediately, Dino Baggio compared the two Argentine superstars and pointed out the difference between them: “Messi, back then, would have been equally brilliant, but completely, absolutely crushed. That’s why I say Diego was the greatest. The God of world soccer.”

Comparisons between Messi and Maradona

Dino Baggio is not the first to highlight the contrast between the leniency of the past and the extreme caution of modern soccer. This is usually one of the arguments used to place stars from previous decades, like Diego Maradona, Pele, or Alfredo Di Stefano, above modern geniuses like Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo.

Some statistics support this view. FIFA shared an analysis on its official website a few years ago regarding the number of fouls committed in each edition of the World Cup (with records starting in Chile 1962) and the players who were most frequently fouled.

There is an indisputable leader in the rankings. Diego Maradona is the player who received the most fouls in World Cup history, totaling 152 across his four tournaments (1982, 1986, 1990, and 1994). He doubles the second player on the list, Lionel Messi, who was fouled 75 times across his five tournaments from 2006 onwards. Further down are Brazil’s Jairzinho (64), Neymar (60), and Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo (58).

The most astonishing fact is that Maradona ranks first, second, and third for the most fouls received in a single World Cup. In Mexico 1986, he was fouled 53 times; in Italy 1990, 50 times; and in Spain 1982, 36 times. Only in fourth place does another player appear—curiously also Argentine—Ariel Ortega, with 33 fouls in France 1998.

Match Overview

A trip to the Champions Cup semifinals hangs in the balance as MLS powerhouse Los Angeles FC meets Liga MX contender Cruz Azul in a blockbuster quarterfinal clash. LAFC arrive battle-tested after grinding through a tough series against Alajuelense, carrying momentum into one of their biggest matches of the season.

Meanwhile, Cruz Azul continue to impress domestically, staying firmly in the Liga MX title hunt following a hard-fought, one-goal aggregate win over Monterrey. With both sides in peak form and a semifinal berth on the line, expect intensity from kickoff to the final whistle.

Liverpool and Chelsea are currently fighting for a place in the UEFA Champions League next season, and they have been handed a huge boost.

According to a report from the BBC, the Premier League has now secured a fifth Champions League spot for the upcoming campaign. Arsenal picked up a 1-0 win over Sporting CP in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final, and that has helped secure the fifth spot for English clubs in the Champions League next season.

Watch: Havertz snatches victory for Arsenal in stoppage time after heroic David Raya performance

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Additional Champions League spot for English teams

The additional place is awarded to two leagues with the best overall performances across three European campaigns, and the Premier League has now clinched the additional spot through their impressive performances.

Apart from the Premier League, it seems that La Liga could also be an extra spot ahead of Germany and Portugal.

It remains to be seen whether Chelsea or Liverpool can secure a top-five finish now. Both teams have been quite inconsistent in recent months, and they will need to raise their performance levels in order to secure Champions League football for the upcoming campaign.

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Can Liverpool or Chelsea seal Champions League qualification?

Missing out on the premier European competition would be a disastrous blow financially. They would also struggle to attract top-quality players without Champions League football next season.

Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United are more or less nailed on to finish in the top three this season. Securing a top-four finish would have been a challenge for Liverpool and Chelsea, especially given Aston Villa’s performance this season. The additional Champions League spot certainly makes it easier for Liverpool and Chelsea to secure a place in next season’s Champions League.

Update: Liverpool & Arsenal transfer target knows which club he wants to play for next season

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Arsenal snatched a massive away victory in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday night, as substitute Kai Havertz struck a clinical stoppage-time winner to deflate a resilient Sporting CP in Lisbon.

In what was a cagey and tactical affair at the José Alvalade Stadium, the German international proved to be the difference-maker.

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Introduced in the 70th minute for Martin Odegaard, Havertz waited until the 91st minute to make his mark, ghosting into the center of the box to meet a perfectly weighted pass from fellow substitute Gabriel Martinelli.

The finish was precise, guiding the ball past Rui Silva and silencing the home crowd.

Superb Kai Havertz ???

Brilliant play from Gabriel Martinelli and Havertz calmly slots home after a sublime first touch ? pic.twitter.com/LF9EnQutnw

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 7, 2026

Huge away win for Arsenal

The 1-0 victory ends Sporting’s formidable run of 17 consecutive home wins and provides Mikel Arteta’s side with a narrow but precious advantage to take back to the Emirates Stadium next week.

After a frustrating first half where both Noni Madueke and Sporting’s Maximiliano Araújo hit the woodwork, Arsenal grew into the game.

The Gunners thought they had taken the lead earlier in the second half when Martín Zubimendi curled a stunning effort into the net, but the goal was ruled out by VAR due to an offside in the buildup involving Viktor Gyokeres.

Despite the setback, Arsenal remained disciplined, and the late intervention from Havertz ensured they avoided a third consecutive game without a win following their recent domestic struggles.

David Raya the hero for Arsenal

While Havertz will grab the headlines for his heroics at one end, David Raya was equally instrumental at the other.

The Spanish goalkeeper produced a “masterclass” in shot-stopping, particularly in the closing stages as Sporting pushed for a winner of their own.

Raya was forced into a stunning low save to deny a diving header from Geny Catamo in the 83rd minute and followed it up with a vital double save in the 87th minute after initially spilling a cross.

?? David Raya against Sporting CP:

· 5 saves
· 5 saves from inside the box
· 1 punch
· 100% successful runouts
· 93% pass accuracy pic.twitter.com/90TfiCqGLB

— Futball Centa (@futballcenta) April 7, 2026

His ability to recover and smother the follow-up attempt preserved the clean sheet and laid the foundation for Arsenal’s late smash-and-grab.

With the defensive anchor Gabriel Magalhães absent through injury, Raya’s vocal leadership and distribution were essential in guiding a makeshift backline through the hostile Lisbon atmosphere.

The post Watch: Havertz snatches victory for Arsenal in stoppage time after heroic David Raya performance appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal are interested in signing the Barcelona playmaker Dani Olmo at the end of the season, and the Spanish club would be open to sanctioning his departure.

According to reports from Spain, the Spanish attacking midfielder will cost around €60 million. Mikel Arteta is reportedly looking to replace Martin Odegaard in the coming months, and they believe that the Barcelona star could be the ideal link between the midfield and the attack for them.

Olmo was linked with Spurs a few months ago.

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Dani Olmo could be a superb addition

The 27-year-old can operate as a central attacking midfielder as well as on the flanks. Olmo will add goals and creativity to the team.

The playmaker has 16 goal contributions this season, and he has proven himself for club and country. There is no doubt that he has the ability to succeed in English football as well. It remains to be seen whether he is prepared to move to the Premier League with Arsenal.

The €60 million asking price is affordable for a club with Arsenal’s resources. They are aiming to compete regularly in the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League, and they need to keep improving the team. Odegaard has not been at his best this season, and it is no surprise that Arsenal are already looking to replace him.

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Can Arsenal sign Olmo?

The player has a contract with Barcelona until 2030, and the Spanish champions are under no pressure to sell him. Arsenal will have to pay the asking price if they want to get the deal done. It remains to be seen how the situation develops over the next few weeks.

Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke have been inconsistent since joining Arsenal at the start of the season, and the Gunners need more cutting-edge in the final third. The Spanish international could prove to be an inspired acquisition.

The post Arsenal line up move for €60m La Liga star as shock replacement plan emerges appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United are interested in signing the French international Eduardo Camavinga from Real Madrid at the end of the season.

They are closely monitoring the 23-year-old midfielder, and they are prepared to provide him with an exit route. The player has struggled for regular opportunities at the Spanish club, and reports from Spain claim that Real Madrid is losing patience and confidence with the player.

They could be prepared to sanction his departure in the summer, and Manchester United are ready to snap him up. The 23-year-old is a tremendous talent, and he has all the attributes to develop into a top-class player.

Camavinga has also been linked with Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea.

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Man United want Eduardo Camavinga

The report claims that Manchester United want to sign him as a replacement for Casemiro. The Brazilian will leave the club in the summer, and they need to replace him properly. Camavinga is an elite talent with a bright future, and Manchester United could groom him into a future star.

The midfielder is keen to join an ambitious project, and Manchester United are one of the biggest clubs in the world. They have shown great improvement under Michael Carrick, and they are currently pushing for Champions League qualification. They will be hoping to fight for major trophies next season, and they are likely to be an attractive destination for the midfielder.

More Stories / Latest News

Man United begin work on move for “outstanding” 26-year-old amid contract uncertainty

Apr 8 2026, 6:00

BBC reporter reveals what Martin Odegaard was seen doing immediately after being taken off against Sporting

Apr 7 2026, 23:35

Arsenal result has just handed Liverpool and Chelsea a massive UCL boost

Apr 7 2026, 22:30

Camavinga could fancy a Premier League move

The move to the Premier League could be ideal for him at this stage of his career. He has the physicality and technical attributes for English football, and Manchester United could help him get his career back on track. Real Madrid is unlikely to stand in his way if there is a suitable offer from Manchester United on the table.

The post Man United preparing lifeline move for underused 23-year-old French prodigy appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Diego Simeone says he is lucky to be able to coach Antoine Griezmann, labelling him “one of the most important players I have ever had” at Atletico Madrid. Griezmann is set to leave Atletico at the end of the season, having agreed a deal with MLS side Orlando City SC during the international break. The […]

The post Griezmann ´one of the most important players I have ever had´ at Atletico, says Simeone appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Griezmann ´one of the most important players I have ever had´ at Atletico, says Simeone appeared first on Soccer News.

Florian Wirtz has shut down any rumours of Liverpool players turning against manager Arne Slot ahead of their Champions League quarter-final first leg against Paris Saint-Germain. The pressure has been increasing on Slot at Anfield, especially after their 4-0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-final on Saturday. The Reds’ last hope of […]

The post Wirtz insists Liverpool players still believe in Slot appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Wirtz insists Liverpool players still believe in Slot appeared first on Soccer News.