Pep Guardiola feels like a part of him is leaving Manchester City as the club prepares for the departure of captain Bernardo Silva. It was announced this week that Silva, who joined Man City from Monaco in 2017, will be leaving at the end of the season. The Portugal international has won 15 major trophies […]

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Manchester United are in a hurry to secure their return to the Champions League, so says Bruno Fernandes. A depleted United team, shorn of four senior centre-backs, beat out-of-form Chelsea 1-0 at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Fernandes starred, providing the assist for Matheus Cunha’s strike late in the first half. The United captain has now […]

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The post Man Utd star Fernandes in a rush to seal Champions League qualification appeared first on Soccer News.

Chelsea suffered a fourth straight Premier League defeat as Manchester United boosted their chances of a top-five finish with a 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge. Matheus Cunha, from another Bruno Fernandes assist – his 18th in the league this season – struck late in the first half on Saturday, and that goal proved decisive. A […]

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The post Chelsea 0-1 Manchester United: Cunha condemns hosts to fourth straight Premier League loss appeared first on Soccer News.

The tension at the top of Saudi soccer is beginning to feel personal. With Cristiano Ronaldo driving one charge and Karim Benzema leading the response, even voices from inside the latter’s dressing room, like Pablo Mari, are adding new layers to a title race that refuses to settle.

For both Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal, the stakes stretch beyond silverware, with pride and legacy now tightly intertwined. The conversation around the title has intensified in recent days, with a particular admission surfacing from within Benzema’s camp.

Al-Nassr currently sits at the summit with 76 points from 29 matches, holding what appears to be a commanding advantage. Its record of 25 wins, one draw, and just three defeats highlights a campaign built on consistency and attacking firepower.

Ronaldo remains central to that success, contributing heavily with goals and leadership even deep into his career. The team’s 79 goals scored underline a ruthless edge, one that has often turned tight contests into decisive victories.

Meanwhile, Al-Hilal continues to apply pressure in a very different way. The Blue Waves remain unbeaten after 28 matches, with 20 wins and eight draws, showcasing resilience rather than dominance.

What did Pablo Mari say?

On paper, the gap between the two sides stands at eight points, but the reality is more nuanced. Al-Hilal has a game in hand, meaning the difference could shrink to just five points, keeping the title race alive heading into the final stretch.

It is in this context that Pablo Mari’s comments begin to resonate more deeply. The Al-Hilal defender offered a candid perspective on both the rivalry and the figure at its center. “We will fight to win the league,” he stated in a recent interview shared on social media; a clear message that Al-Hilal has not conceded anything yet.

His words reflect a squad still convinced that the gap can be closed. But perhaps more striking was his admiration for the opponent. “I would love to play with Cristiano Ronaldo,” he admitted, highlighting the respect the forward commands even from direct rivals.

Respect for elite players often crosses rivalry lines, and the Spaniard’s words reflected that reality. In a season filled with tension, it was a reminder of Ronaldo’s standing across world soccer.

Pressure builds as the finish line nears

As the season moves into its decisive phase, both sides understand the margins are shrinking. Al-Nassr needs to maintain its relentless pace, knowing a single slip could reopen the race.

For Al-Hilal, the equation is equally clear. Turning draws into victories is essential, especially with the opportunity to reduce the gap still within reach. The psychological aspect is beginning to matter just as much as the tactical one.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix are central to Al-Nassr’s latest continental challenge, but fresh uncertainty has emerged just before the decisive AFC Champions League Two clash with Al-Wasl. The Portuguese pair headline a star-filled squad, yet Felix’s absence from group training has raised concern ahead of one of the club’s most important matches of the season.

The stage is set at Zabeel Stadium, where a one-leg quarter-final will decide who advances to the semi-finals. For Al-Nassr, the match represents another step toward a long-awaited continental title, one that has so far eluded the club. It topped its group with a perfect 18 points and navigated the round of 16 with back-to-back 1-0 wins, showing both consistency and control.

What’s more, the Riyadh outfit enters the match in formidable form. A remarkable winning streak, stretching beyond 17 matches across competitions, has turned Jorge Jesus’ side into one of Asia’s most feared sides.

A star-studded attack has been the driving force behind that run. Between Ronaldo, Felix, Sadio Mane, and others, the team has produced a staggering number of goal contributions, underlining their depth and firepower.

Al-Wasl, meanwhile, arrives with a different kind of urgency. With domestic hopes fading, this competition stands as its final opportunity for silverware, adding extra intensity to the encounter.

The reason why Joao Felix missed training

Joao Felix has been one of Al-Nassr’s most productive players this season. Since arriving permanently in 2025, the forward has delivered 21 goals and 14 assists in 37 appearances across competitions, making him a crucial figure in the attack.

His versatility, movement, and technical quality have helped complement Cristiano Ronaldo and the wider frontline. That is why his missing group session created immediate concern around availability and readiness.

Reports from Al Youm and Arriyadiyah later clarified the situation. The technical staff preferred to rest him due to fatigue, rather than any serious injury issue. “Joao Felix skipped group training… and instead completed individual gym exercises,” the reports stated.

The decision was precautionary, aimed at ensuring he remains available for selection rather than risking a setback. The Portuguese winger still trained individually, signaling that his involvement in the match remains possible.

Jorge Jesus faces a key decision: Will Joao Felix play?

The biggest question now is whether Felix starts, appears from the bench, or is protected further. It appears that Jorge Jesus will make the final decision in a pre-match meeting, balancing immediate need with player condition.

If Felix is unavailable from the opening whistle, alternatives such as Sadio Mane or Kingsley Coman can shoulder more responsibility. Few teams in Asia can match Al-Nassr’s attacking depth. Another option is that Jorge Jesus could be forced to change formations with Ronaldo and another centre-forward ahead.

Antonio Conte has managed to impress with his performances at SSC Napoli, winning the 2025–26 Serie A and the 2025–26 Italian Super Cup. Following his impact, he has emerged as the favourite candidate to coach Italy amid their rebuilt. Despite having a contract until 2027, he is moving closer to the national team role, as president Aurelio De Laurentiis is reportedly considering dismissing him at the end of the season.

According to Paolo Bargiggia, via AreaNapoli, the future of Antonio Conte at SSC Napoli is not entirely secure, as president Aurelio De Laurentiis is not fully convinced by his performance this season. As a result, he is reportedly open to facilitating the coach’s departure to the Italy national team, as it would represent an ideal solution by avoiding the need to pay a costly dismissal.

Following the departure of Gennaro Gattuso, the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) is planning a significant overhaul of their project. In the search for a leader, Conte has emerged as a strong option, having previously managed the Azzurri and possessing extensive knowledge of Serie A. Additionally, Napoli would reportedly be willing to ease his exit—something that would not be the case with Massimiliano Allegri, who remains a key figure at AC Milan.

While Napoli have remained one of the top teams in Serie A, they have failed to get involved in the race for the league title. Trailing AC Milan by 12 points, they have yet to find their best form, highlighting the decline of Antonio Conte and his project. Furthermore, the Italian side is coming off a tough loss to Lazio, which exposed the team’s major problems and leaves Conte on the brink of leaving at the end of the season—either to another Italian club or out of a job.

Conte may be an immediate solution, but not an ideal one for Italy

After missing three consecutive World Cup editions, the Italy do not need continuity—they need a full reset. This means committing to younger players and driving a necessary generational overhaul to rebuild the national team. With that in mind, Antonio Conte may not be the ideal fit, as he represents more of a short-term solution for a project that requires a long-term vision and sustainable development.

Antonio Conte is one of Italy’s most successful coaches and a global figure in the sport. However, he is not typically known for investing in young players or long-term projects, having had short tenures at every team he has managed. As a result, players like Francesco Camarda, Pietro Comuzzo, Michael Kyode, Samuele Inacio, and others could be left out, cutting short their development, as he tends to rely on veteran, proven players.

In pursuit of a full rebuild, FIGC may need a more attack-minded coach who is willing to trust young players, making Pep Guardiola one of the most ideal candidates. Turning again to profiles like Roberto Mancini, Massimiliano Allegri, or Antonio Conte would mean continuing a sporting project that has not delivered results and clearly requires renewal—potentially representing a step backward rather than forward.

Following the disappointing start of the 2026 MLS season, Javier Mascherano stepped down from Inter Miami, leaving head coach Guillermo Hoyos in charge of the team. Shortly after his departure, they now face Colorado Rapids, seeking a victory to end their negative run. While they have been dominated, Messi has already put them ahead, scoring a key penalty to open the scoring in the first minutes of the game.

After a foul on Yannick Bright, the Herons strongly appealed for a penalty, prompting the referee to consult VAR. Following the review, the foul was awarded inside the box, with Joshua Atencio shown a yellow card. Taking responsibility from the spot, Messi struck a well-placed shot to score the opening goal and give his side the early advantage, beating Colorado Rapids‘ Zack Steffen.

Despite trailing, Colorado Rapids have shown an impressive attacking presence, emerging as the more proactive side in possession and consistently posing a forward threat. They have applied a high press and demonstrated a well-developed connection. As a result, Inter Miami continue to struggle against an opponent that appears capable of finding an equalizer and exposing the team’s ongoing issues.

After conceding two goals to the Colorado Rapids in the second half, the Herons managed to turn the game around, thanks once again to Lionel Messi. Following a pass from Rodrigo De Paul from midfield, the veteran received the ball on the right wing, dribbled past three defenders, and fired a powerful shot past Zack Steffen once again.

Germán Berterame struggles to adapt with Messi at Inter Miami

At the start of 2026, Inter Miami CF pursued the signing of Germán Berterame, aiming for him to replace Luis Suárez in the short term. After paying €12.6M to CF Monterrey from Liga MX, the Mexican forward arrived in MLS with high expectations. While he managed to score an important header against Colorado Rapids, he has yet to fully adapt to playing alongside Lionel Messi, exposing a clear lack of understanding on the pitch.

Alongside Luis Suárez, Mateo Silvetti, and Tadeo Allende, Lionel Messi has developed strong on-field chemistry, showing fluidity and consistently creating space for one another. However, Germán Berterame has managed just two goals and one assist in 10 matches for Inter Miami CF, lacking a clear connection with the Argentine. As a result, he has struggled to find space and contribute to the team’s collective play.

Far from there being any issue between them, Lionel Messi has shown himself to be highly supportive of Germán Berterame, meaning their on-field connection could improve over time. After investing a significant fee in the Mexican, head coach Guillermo Hoyos now faces the key task of developing that chemistry and establishing them as the new attacking partnership, as Luis Suárez under contract only until December 2026 and expected to move on.

Match Overview

With the regular season winding down in Liga MX, the stakes couldn’t be more different as Toluca and Club America square off in a matchup loaded with urgency. Toluca enter the contest sitting on 27 points, chasing Chivas by four and running out of runway, making every remaining fixture critical if they hope to close the gap at the top.

On the other sideline, America are coming off a derby stalemate against Cruz Azul that kept them inside the playoff picture—for now—but with their top-eight position far from secure, anything less than three points here could put their postseason hopes in real danger.

Gian Piero Gasperini gave a very open-ended reply when asked about his Roma future. ‘This has been an extraordinary experience for me, we’ll discuss it at the end of the season.’

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The Giallorossi went behind to Atalanta at the first opportunity on home turf, as Nikola Krstovic blasted in from the edge of the area, with Mario Hermoso’s volley drawing level on the stroke of half-time.

Although the hosts had the best chances to win it, forcing saves from Serie A Man of the Match Marco Carnesecchi and clipping the crossbar, they were unable to get more than a 1-1 draw.

Gasperini won’t commit future to Roma

“Carnesecchi made several great saves, Svilar too on one occasion, but we certainly tried to win it more than Atalanta,” Gasperini told Sky Sport Italia.

“The first half was very entertaining, after the break a bit of fatigue set in, so there were a few more errors, but we always tried to get the full result to the final whistle.”

This had been a big chance to leapfrog Como into fifth place after Cesc Fabregas and his team lost to Sassuolo yesterday, but instead they only catch the Lariani on 58 points, and risk falling further behind Juventus in fourth.

Roma’s dismal record in the big matches continues, scraping only seven points in matches against the other teams in the top seven.

“Sometimes like against Juventus and Napoli, we were in the lead, we did well against Milan, then at Como were down to 10 men, but the only one we lost in the second half of the season was against Inter, who are a step above. More often than not, we were closest to the victory.”

Matias Soulé and Gianluca Mancini were still visibly not at 100 per cent, while Devyne Rensch went off with a muscular problem.

“Until mid-December, we had a consistency in our line-up that allowed us to defend very well. When Malen arrived in January, we vastly improved our attack, but at the same time got weaker in defence. It was a remarkable defensive record at the start that we would’ve struggled to maintain for long,” insisted Gasperini.

It has been a difficult few days for Roma, as Gasperini and director Claudio Ranieri engaged in a very public war of words, prompting many fans to take sides and assume they cannot work together next season.

There was also some tension at the final whistle with some jeers from the crowd. He was asked outright, will the club have to choose between the coach and Ranieri?

“I was dragged into this thing, people have talked about nothing else for a week. I never replied, I will continue to not reply, as I don’t think it is a very pleasant thing for all the people in the stadium,” replied Gasperini.

“There are five games to go, we are still challenging for some important targets, and if we are four points clear of an Atalanta side who were third last season, that shows we’ve done something right. We are close to Como and Juve, we saw today Napoli lost, so I am concentrated on this situation.

“We need to end the season well, because this has been an extraordinary experience for me, having arrived here with a lot of scepticism around me, and a little rivalry.

“There is a team that continues to follow me, I am grateful to them and always will be, just as I am to the fans for what they have given me so far. As for what happens after that, these are things we will discuss at the end of the season.”

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has sent a simple three-word message to his players ahead of Sunday’s huge game away to Manchester City.

When asked in his pre-match press conference if he had a “final message” for his players, Arteta stated simply that he wants them to “go for it” at the Etihad Stadium.

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“Go for it, let’s be ourselves and go for it,” Arteta said. “Put everything we have on that pitch.

“Huge belief, huge conviction, and go for it, because we are more than capable of doing it.”

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? What's your final message to your players?

Mikel Arteta: "Go for it!" ?? pic.twitter.com/xEHTi8Hkw0

— CaughtOffside (@caughtoffside) April 18, 2026

He added: “This is exactly where we want to be. This brings a lot of positive things, and I don’t see anything that has to hold you, because this is where you want to be … playing against an opponent that requires the best of you.”

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Can Arsenal players find their belief in potential title-decider vs Man City?

As much as Arteta talks a good game, it will be interesting to see if Arsenal’s players really play like they believe in themselves on Sunday.

There have been times this season when the Gunners have had the opportunity to run away with the league, and they’ve failed to really capitalise.

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This has allowed City back into the title race, and many Arsenal fans will feel it’s closer than it should have been.

This game will be a huge opportunity for Arteta’s side as they surely have to use this six-pointer as the moment to stamp their authority on this title race.

The post Mikel Arteta’s three-word “final message” to Arsenal players ahead of Man City game appeared first on CaughtOffside.

At Inter Miami, the spotlight once again falls on Lionel Messi and Javier Mascherano after a sudden managerial departure that few saw coming. The club, still riding the momentum of recent success, now faces renewed scrutiny as speculation swirls around what truly led to the Argentine coach stepping down.

The Argentine coach’s resignation came shortly after a turbulent period for the club, which included inconsistent results and growing pressure on the squad. While early reports pointed to “personal reasons,” the timing and context have led to deeper scrutiny of what actually unfolded inside the dressing room.

The Herons confirmed Javier Mascherano’s resignation through an official statement, where he said: “I want to let everyone know that, for personal reasons, I have decided to end my tenure as head coach of Inter Miami CF.” He also added, “I will always carry with me the memory of our first star.”

The coach left with an impressive 1.93 points-per-game average, the highest in club history, and just months after leading the club to its first MLS Cup title. Despite that success, the team’s recent form, including elimination from the Concacaf Champions Cup, created a more unstable atmosphere.

The real reason behind the exit amid tensions talk

While official messaging pointed to a clean departure, reports later suggested a more complex situation. A locker room argument after the 2-2 draw against the New York Red Bulls is believed to have been the final trigger behind Mascherano’s exit, according to sources briefed on the situation.

The Athletic earlier reported that tensions had been building for weeks, particularly after the club’s Concacaf Champions Cup elimination. The frustration reportedly grew internally, creating an increasingly difficult environment.

However, despite speculation, a Daily Mail insider dismissed the idea of a Messi-related fallout. “When they come, it’s ‘because he is Messi’s friend’. When they leave, it’s ‘because he is not Messi’s friend’,” the source said, pushing back on the narrative.

The Messi and Mascherano dynamic

Messi and Mascherano share a long history together, having played for both Argentina and Barcelona. That relationship carried into Miami, where both were seen as central figures in the club’s identity and leadership structure.

Mascherano publicly described his exit as personal, but the lack of detail quickly sparked speculation. The same phrasing had been used in previous managerial changes at the club, which only added to doubts about the official explanation.

The Daily Mail added that Mascherano had privately felt that his cycle at the club had naturally reached its end after winning major silverware, rather than being forced out abruptly. This version of events suggests a gradual decision rather than a sudden fallout.

At Milan, the spotlight has once again shifted toward Christian Pulisic, with uncertainty surrounding his situation ahead of a crucial clash against Hellas Verona. The Serie A club finds itself in a delicate moment, where form, confidence, and attacking output are all under scrutiny.

Its attacking unit, once considered a strength, has instead become a growing concern. With key figures, including Pulisic and Rafael Leao, struggling simultaneously, the sense around the Rossoneri is that something deeper than simple poor form is affecting performances. The numbers paint a troubling picture for Milan’s frontline in 2026. 

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the team’s attackers have managed just eight goals since the turn of the year despite producing 93 total shots and 34 on target. This decline has had a direct impact on results, as goals have become increasingly difficult to come by. Compared to rivals like Inter, which requires far fewer chances to score, Massimiliano Allegri’s players’ struggles stand out even more.

Much of the focus has naturally fallen on Pulisic, whose season has followed a dramatic split. After recording eight goals and two assists in the first half of the campaign, he has failed to score in 2026, adding just one assist to his tally.

His last goal came in late December, coincidentally against Verona, a moment that now feels distant. Since then, injuries and inconsistency have disrupted his rhythm, leaving the forward searching for answers in front of the goal.

Pulisic’s status for the crucial Verona test emerges

Despite the concerns, multiple outlets such as Corriere dello Sport and Gazzetta dello Sport suggest that Pulisic is still expected to start against Verona, a decision that underlines the trust placed in him by Massimiliano Allegri. The coach appears willing to rely on his experienced attackers rather than turn to alternatives during this difficult phase.

The American winger has previously delivered strong performances at the Bentegodi, including a goal in a 3-1 win during the 2023-24 season. That history is seen as a potential spark for a player searching for rhythm.

Tactical reset offers a familiar solution

Massimiliano Allegri has repeatedly altered Milan’s attacking structure in search of a solution. Experiments with different forward combinations, including a front three, have failed to deliver stability or goals.

After the disappointing system change against Udinese, Allegri is expected to revert to a 3-5-2 formation with Pulisic and Leao leading the line together. The coach believes familiarity between the two attackers could restore some balance in the final third.

Despite recent struggles, Allegri is still backing both players to start against Verona, hoping the matchup can trigger a turnaround in form. The partnership between Pulisic and Leao has produced mixed outcomes this season. When the two started together, the Rossoneri scored just eight goals, averaging less than one per game.

Confidence also appears to be a factor, with both players struggling mentally as well as physically. The pressure of expectation, combined with recent poor results, has created a tense atmosphere within the squad.

Kylian Mbappé has enjoyed an outstanding individual season, scoring 40 goals and playing a key role in the attack. Despite this, Real Madrid endured a disappointing campaign, being eliminated from the UEFA Champions League and sitting second in LaLiga. In response, 1998 World Cup winner Emmanuel Petit has delivered a strong critique of the 27-year-old striker, highlighting what he sees as a growing problem within the dressing room.

“It’s not only Kylian Mbappé’s fault, but his arrival has filled the Real Madrid locker room with selfishness. It’s a fiasco, and time is running out for him,” Emmanuel Petit said, via RMC Sport. Moreover, he strongly criticizes Eduardo Camavinga, defending the French striker: “If someone has to be blamed, it’s him. His entrance was catastrophic. At that moment in the match, that red card is very harsh, but the referee is simply applying the rules.”

Far from blaming the lack of specific profiles in the squad, Emmanuel Petit made it clear that Real Madrid’s issues do not necessarily stem from the sporting side. Alongside these remarks, concerns over Vinícius Jr.’s contract renewal have also emerged, as he is reportedly seeking a salary equal to that of Kylian Mbappé. With this, and the reported dressing room tensions involving Xabi Alonso, Los Blancos seem to be facing a significant internal problem.

Despite these reported ego issues, Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. have made it clear on multiple occasions that there are no problems between them, even stating that they share a close relationship. However, Real Madrid’s inconsistent performances this season have raised serious concerns, with fans expressing worries that there is no collective identity, but rather a focus on individual priorities.

Mbappé joined a Real Madrid team led by Vinícius Jr.

Real Madrid have managed to remain one of the best teams in the world, with Vinícius Jr. standing out as a difference-maker. The Brazilian has not only delivered in terms of goals, but has also been key in two UEFA Champions League titles. As a result, Kylian Mbappé’s arrival significantly shook up the squad, as the scoring responsibility and spotlight are now shared, forcing both players to adjust their roles on the pitch—something that has yet to fully click.

While Kylian Mbappé has thrived in his best goalscoring form, Vinícius Jr. has struggled to fully adapt, drawing criticism after managing just 17 goals—well below his peak level. Neither Xabi Alonso nor Álvaro Arbeloa have been able to properly integrate both players on the pitch, as when one shines, the other tends to fade into the background. Feeling that the system no longer benefits him, the Brazilian has already hinted that he is not entirely comfortable.

Real Madrid’s current problems may stem from the midfield

While many point to ego clashes and similar issues, Real Madrid could address their problems by reinforcing one key area: The midfield. Following the departures of Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić, Los Blancos have lost structure in their play, leaving Vinícius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé at times looking disconnected on the pitch. As a result, they reportedly have a clear priority: Signing a controlling midfielder.

According to Francisco José Delgado via Cadena SER, Nico Paz will make a comeback to los Blancos, paying €9 million to Como 1907. While the Argentinean plays in a more offensive role, he could be a key to organize the game. To achieve that, los Blancos are reportedly open to sell Eduardo Camavinga and Dani Ceballos. For that reason, they could still chase another organizative reinforcement.

With a player capable of dictating the tempo, Vinícius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé could benefit significantly, as they would receive better service and more scoring opportunities. This would give Real Madrid a more structured style of play, helping them build a stronger on-field connection. A similar dynamic was seen with Karim Benzema, Gareth Bale, and Cristiano Ronaldo, who thrived with a solid midfield supporting them.

Raffaele Palladino ‘enjoyed myself’ watching Atalanta’s 1-1 draw with Roma, feeling either team could win it, but the Coppa Italia semi-final is ‘the most important match of the season.’

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La Dea knew that this was their last real chance to challenge for a Champions League spot, and they had taken the lead at the Stadio Olimpico with the first Nikola Krstovic effort on goal.

However, Mario Hermoso’s acrobatic volley cancelled it out on the stroke of half-time, and the defender almost got a second when his header bounced off the crossbar.

Marco Carnesecchi made several big saves and was named Lega Serie A Man of the Match, but this point was not the birthday present Palladino had hoped for.

Palladino relishing Atalanta performances

“It was a good game of football played between two teams who wanted to win, playing with intensity, courage and quality. I’ll be honest, I enjoyed myself tonight,” Palladino told Sky Sport Italia.

“We took on a team that was eager to beat us, especially as we beat them earlier this season. Coming here into this atmosphere with such spirit was not easy, so I congratulated my players.

“It was an open match and frankly either side could’ve won it, as we had the chances to go 2-0 up, and then they had opportunities in the second half. We take this point and feel it is probably the right result.”

This result means Atalanta remain in seventh place and four points adrift of Roma in sixth, so it will be a struggle to make up that ground now.

Winning the Coppa Italia could therefore be their best chance of qualifying for the Europa League, and they host Lazio in Wednesday’s semi-final, after the first leg ended 2-2.

“I won’t say this was a wasted opportunity, as we closed one point from Como and stayed at the same distance from Roma. We won’t give up to the last game, I think against Juventus and Roma they were two really good performances, showing we’ll fight it out with anyone,” noted Palladino.

“Now the semi-final of the Coppa Italia is probably our most important match of the season so far, we really want to get into the Final.”

Atalanta made three changes at half-time, two of them in defence, so what was behind that decision?

“Giorgio Scalvini had a knock to the hip and was struggling to keep up the pace of the game, while Kolasinac had a slight muscular twinge and we will need to evaluate it over the next few days. With an eye on Wednesday, I didn’t want to take any risks.

“Charles De Ketelaere wasn’t sharp today, as he had flu earlier this week and didn’t have his usual energy. We had trouble with our defenders in the first half, but they were largely physical issues.”

Gianluca Scamacca was expected to start this evening, but Krstovic got the nod and scored the opening goal. Could they play together?

“I have faith in both strikers, they will prove themselves when given the chance. I needed players with different characteristics today, as Nikola can attack the space more, whereas Gianluca tends to connect with the midfield. Whether they can play together next season, I don’t know, we’ve got time to think about that.”

Roberto De Zerbi’s wait for a first victory as Tottenham head coach goes on after a maddening 2-2 draw with Brighton at a packed stadium, a result that felt like a defeat given the manner in which the points were conceded, with goals for the visitors arriving in the final moments of both halves to deny Spurs what would have been a crucial win in their battle against relegation.

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Despite the frustration, De Zerbi refused to allow negativity to take hold, delivering a characteristically passionate and defiant assessment of where his side stand with five games remaining.

“I’m very proud because the players gave their best, with the right mentality, the right blood, the right character,” he said, with quotes via Football.London.

“I’m disappointed only for the result, for my players and for the fans, because the atmosphere was incredible. In a very tough situation, the stadium was amazing.”

De Zerbi: ‘Spurs can win five games in a row’

On Danso’s error that led to Brighton’s late equaliser, De Zerbi was protective of his player.

“I prefer to make mistakes with the personality to play than to concede a goal without personality or courage,” he said. “Now we need courage. To win games we have to be positive and play football.”

His ambition for what remains of the season may have raised eyebrows, but it was delivered with total conviction.

“This team is able to win five games in a row,” he said. “Now it is difficult to hear my words, but if you analyse the level of these players, we have the quality to fight and win games consecutively.”

His message to any player tempted to feel sorry for themselves was equally direct.

“They have to come to the training ground on Monday with a smile, otherwise they go home. I have no time for negative people or sad players. We are lucky to be working at a big club in the Premier League. Be positive. Stop.”

Roma and Atalanta were both left frustrated with a point apiece in this showdown for European places, as Mario Hermoso cancelled out the Nikola Krstovic opener.

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This was a pure head-to-head for European ambitions, but also an emotional reunion for Gian Piero Gasperini with his former club, and protégé Raffaele Palladino. Paulo Dybala, Manu Koné, Wesley, Lorenzo Pellegrini, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson were still out of action, with Nicolò Pisilli and Gianluca Mancini not at 100 per cent either.

La Dea had to prepare for Wednesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Lazio, though Isak Hien and Kamaldeen Sulemana were injured, so Giacomo Raspadori started against the club he turned down in January.

Atalanta had a remarkable recent record against the Giallorossi, unbeaten since March 2022 with six wins and a draw going into this game.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

The visitors scored with the first chance of the game, as Marten de Roon robbed Mario Hermoso in midfield and sent Nikola Krstovic through the middle, the striker’s ferocious right-foot finish beating Mile Svilar.

Matias Soulé cut inside for a curler from the edge of the area that was deflected over by Berat Djimsiti, then in a similar position forced the low one-handed Marco Carnesecchi save.

Carnesecchi did even better when rushing off his line for a desperate block on Donyell Malen’s tap-in from seven yards, when Stephan El Shaarawy had rolled across.

Malen also tested the Atalanta goalkeeper at the near post on the counter-attack, while Mile Svilar denied Ederson one-on-one moments later after the midfielder had left El Aynaoui in his wake.

Roma equalised on the stroke of half-time, as Devyne Rensch nodded down the Zeki Celik cross for an acrobatic Hermoso left-foot volley from eight yards into the roof of the net.

Atalanta made a triple change at half-time, including ex-Roma youth product Nicola Zalewski, who immediately blasted wide from distance.

El Shaarawy stung Carnesecchi’s gloves at the near post with a volley from a tricky angle, as did Malen from a very similar position, while the goalkeeper was ready for a Hermoso header.

Lorenzo Venturino’s strike was deflected over, but on the resulting corner a Hermoso looping header bounced off the top of the crossbar.

Devyne Rensch hobbled off with a muscular problem, while Robinio Vaz couldn’t take advantage of Carnesecchi fumbling a Venturino cross.

Roma 1-1 Atalanta

Krstovic 12 (A), Hermoso 45 (R)

18-04-2026 19:45

MatchDay 33

Stadio Olimpico

Roma

Atalanta

1 - 1

Player statistic

1st half

		12'		Nikola Krstovic (Assist: Marten de Roon)
Mario Hermoso (Assist: Devyne Rensch)		45'

2nd half

		65'		Éderson
Niccolò Pisilli		75'
		90+1'		Berat Djimsiti

Match statistic

53

Possession %

47

19

Total shots

8

9

Shots on target

2

4

Shots off target

3

6

Blocked shots

3

7

Corners

6

1

Offsides

3

4

Fouls

14

Roma

Atalanta

Starting lineups

99

Mile Svilar

Goalkeeper

2

Devyne Rensch

Defender

78'

5

Evan Ndicka

Defender

23

Gianluca Mancini

Defender

60'

22

Mario Hermoso

Defender

19

Zeki Celik

Defender

4

Bryan Cristante

Midfielder

8

Neil El Aynaoui

Midfielder

60'

14

Donyell Malen

Attacker

18

Matìas Soulé

Attacker

71'

92

Stephan El Shaarawy

Attacker

60'

29

Marco Carnesecchi

Goalkeeper

19

Berat Djimsiti

Defender

77

Davide Zappacosta

Defender

42

Giorgio Scalvini

Defender

46'

16

Raoul Bellanova

Defender

23

Sead Kolasinac

Defender

46'

13

Éderson

Midfielder

80'

15

Marten de Roon

Midfielder

17

Charles De Ketelaere

Attacker

46'

18

Giacomo Raspadori

Attacker

90

Nikola Krstovic

Attacker

Substitutes

3

Angeliño

Defender

95

Pierluigi Gollini

Goalkeeper

24

Jan Ziolkowski

Defender

97

Bryan Zaragoza

Attacker

70

Giorgio De Marzi

Goalkeeper

61

Niccolò Pisilli

Midfielder

60'

87

Daniele Ghilardi

Defender

60'

20

Lorenzo Venturino

Attacker

60'

78

Robinio Vaz

Attacker

71'

12

Konstantinos Tsimikas

Defender

78'

10

Lazar Samardžić

Midfielder

57

Marco Sportiello

Goalkeeper

9

Gianluca Scamacca

Attacker

5

Mitchel Bakker

Defender

7

Kamaldeen Sulemana

Midfielder

6

Yunus Musah

Midfielder

59

Nicola Zalewski

Midfielder

46'

3

Odilon Kossounou

Defender

46'

69

Honest Ahanor

Defender

46'

8

Mario Pasalic

Midfielder

80'

The numbers tell a remarkable story. With Matteo Cancellieri and Toma Basic finding the net on Saturday evening, Lazio completed a fourth consecutive away victory at the Maradona, making them the first team in Serie A history to achieve that feat against Napoli.

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It is also the best run of consecutive victories Lazio have ever recorded at the ground.

The sequence began with Matias Vecino’s solitary goal on 3 March 2023, continued with a 2-1 win in September of that year courtesy of Luis Alberto and Daichi Kamada, was extended by Gustav Isaksen’s winner in December 2024 and has now reached its most historic chapter.

To find a comparable period of Lazio dominance at the ground you must go back generations, a nine-game unbeaten run between 1939 and 1951 and another of six between 1998 and 2009, though neither produced four consecutive victories.

Napoli home unbeaten run grinds to a halt against Lazio

Perhaps equally striking is the wider context for Napoli.

Saturday’s defeat ended a run of 495 days unbeaten at home in Serie A, their last domestic defeat at the Maradona had been, fittingly, a 1-0 loss to this same Lazio side back in December 2024.

Beyond the statistics, the result has effectively ended Napoli’s Scudetto aspirations with five games to play.

Antonio Conte has been characteristically pragmatic, noting that second, third and fourth place all deliver the same reward, Champions League football, but the manner of the defeat will sting.

Without sufficient motivational fuel, Napoli looked flat, slow and predictable, their performance raising broader questions about whether this squad, even at full strength, retains the hunger and intensity that defined Conte’s first season at the club.

The returns of De Bruyne and Anguissa have added quality but not yet restored the collective grit that made Napoli so formidable. With 66 points and a comfortable cushion above fifth place, their Champions League berth looks secure, but in a season that promised so much more, almost is a deeply unsatisfying place to finish.

Mason Mount was not exactly Mr Popular as he returned to his former club Chelsea with Manchester United in Saturday evening’s Premier League clash.

The England international was once a real fan-favourite at Stamford Bridge, but he has clearly soured his relationship with Blues supporters since leaving to join Man Utd back in 2023.

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Mount did not get a friendly reception upon his return to Chelsea tonight, and it seems the player himself couldn’t resist a little dig back at the home crowd.

See below as Fabrizio Romano shared an image of the moment Mount decided to shush the Chelsea fans as the game neared full time…

Mason Mount at Stamford Bridge. ? pic.twitter.com/uRSDAozSWb

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 18, 2026

Mount will likely have enjoyed that, with the 27-year-old also on the winning side today in what could end up being a crucial result in this season’s race for Champions League qualification.

Manchester United dent Chelsea’s Champions League hopes

United won 1-0 at Stamford Bridge thanks to a first half goal from Matheus Cunha, and it’s a result that surely secures their place at Europe’s top table next season.

The Red Devils are now ten points clear of Chelsea, who sit just outside the top five after an awful run of form that will likely now see them have to settle for Europa League football next term.

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More Stories / Latest News

Mikel Arteta’s three-word “final message” to Arsenal players ahead of Man City game

Apr 18 2026, 22:30

Chelsea fans will be furious at Mason Mount gesture during Man United win at Stamford Bridge

Apr 18 2026, 22:29

Sources: Liverpool remain keen on 21 G/A star who’s not signing new contract with current club

Apr 18 2026, 21:56

United really needed a big improvement and they’ve got it under interim manager Michael Carrick this season, with the club looking in much better shape since sacking previous manager Ruben Amorim.

Chelsea, by contrast, only seem to have got even worse since replacing Enzo Maresca with Liam Rosenior, with this youthful squad once again struggling for consistency.

The post Chelsea fans will be furious at Mason Mount gesture during Man United win at Stamford Bridge appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool are understood to still be keen on a potential transfer deal for Bradley Barcola this summer, with the French winger stalling on signing a new contract with Paris Saint-Germain.

The Reds urgently need to strengthen in attack this summer after a difficult season, with Mohamed Salah recently confirming he’ll be leaving the club at the end of the season.

We recently reported that Liverpool are looking at Michael Olise and Yan Diomande as potential Salah replacements, but Barcola is another option under consideration.

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Olise and Diomande, like Salah, are primarily right-sided players who favour their left foot, so would be more direct replacements for the legendary Egyptian.

Barcola, however, could also be targeted to give LFC that extra goal threat and spark from the left flank, as an upgrade on the inconsistent Cody Gakpo.

Bradley Barcola surely set for transfer away from PSG

Barcola has an impressive total of 13 goals and eight assists in all competitions for club and country this season, but he hasn’t always established himself as a regular starter for PSG.

The 23-year-old is clearly a fine talent who deserves more playing time, and there’ll be plenty of clubs ready to give him that.

Bradley Barcola to Liverpool Transfer Fit rating – find out how these are calculated here!

That would likely explain why Barcola is yet to move any closer towards an agreement over a new PSG contract, as sources confirmed to us this evening.

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“No progress for PSG on Barcola’s contract,” our source said. “Nothing advanced with any club, but he could leave. Liverpool have liked him for some time, and this development could lead to concrete talks soon.”

It remains to be seen if LFC will definitely make Barcola a priority, but with others like Olise and Diomande perhaps less realistic and more expensive, it could be a sensible option for the Reds to explore.

There is not yet any indication of PSG being ready to let the player go, so it’s hard to know what kind of price could tempt them, but this is something that could develop and gather pace in the weeks ahead.

The post Sources: Liverpool remain keen on 21 G/A star who’s not signing new contract with current club appeared first on CaughtOffside.

This is the big one – it’s Manchester City vs Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium this Sunday in what increasingly feels like winner-takes-all in this season’s Premier League title race.

The Gunners go into the game top of the table, albeit only with a slender lead that Man City can cut into, while Pep Guardiola’s side also have a game in hand over their rivals.

Bukayo Saka will miss out, Martin Odegaard’s fitness is not yet certain, while Erling Haaland’s form will be one key detail to watch.

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They met in the Carabao Cup final just a few weeks ago but this game arguably feels even bigger, as it’s almost a cup final for the Premier League title itself, whilst potentially also giving Arsenal a springboard to compete for the Champions League.

Read on as we identify the six main things to watch out for in this Sunday’s top-of-the-table clash…

Arsenal may have to play for a draw, but is it enough?

While there’s in some way more pressure on Arsenal going into this game due to the fact that they’re chasing a first title in 22 years, it’s worth remembering that City actually arguably need the win more or their title hopes would likely be over.

In which case, we may see Arsenal play for a draw, as it might suit them to rely more on their strong defensive record, particularly while they have so many key attacking players like Bukayo Saka, and potentially also Martin Odegaard, out injured for this game.

And yet, it feels like the one thing Arsenal have lacked in recent title challenges is that statement victory away from home. They’ve drawn their last two visits to the Etihad, which is some progress since that highly damaging 4-1 loss in 2022/23, but a bit more ambition in that 0-0 draw late on the following season would have seen the title go to north London instead of Manchester.

? "If somebody offered you a draw today, would you take it?"

Mikel Arteta's answer…? pic.twitter.com/VpHgnwTFgD

— CaughtOffside (@caughtoffside) April 17, 2026

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It’s important not to let emotions get the better of Arsenal, though, and Mikel Arteta will surely know that a point keeps City a decent distance behind, with the destination of the trophy out of their hands.

How will the Carabao Cup final will impact the psychology of the game?

We know these two met very recently in another big game, and on that occasion it was City who came out on top, lifting the Carabao Cup after a 2-0 win over Arsenal at Wembley.

In many ways, it’s the perfect test for Arsenal’s players, who stayed and watched City lifting the cup and celebrating in front of them – can you respond? Can you learn from the mistakes of that day? Or will that defeat only inhibit your performance?

City are the far more experienced side in terms of getting over the line and winning major trophies, so one imagines that will only boost their confidence for this match. Winning tends to beget more winning, though of course this hasn’t exactly been a vintage City side this season, so could some complacency also kick in?

What to make of Arsenal’s big-game record?

Until defeats against Liverpool and Manchester United this season, Arsenal were on a lengthy unbeaten run against the so-called ‘big six’ sides in league matches.

Arteta tends to know how to get something extra from his players in these important games, but the catch is that City, particularly away from home, have been a bit of an exception to that rule.

Arsenal have drawn their last two games at the Etihad, and were only a matter of seconds away from winning with just ten men last season, but it’s undoubtedly a difficult ground for them, with the north Londoners failing to win there since all the way back in 2015.

More Stories / Latest News

Mikel Arteta’s three-word “final message” to Arsenal players ahead of Man City game

Apr 18 2026, 22:30

Chelsea fans will be furious at Mason Mount gesture during Man United win at Stamford Bridge

Apr 18 2026, 22:29

Sources: Liverpool remain keen on 21 G/A star who’s not signing new contract with current club

Apr 18 2026, 21:56

Given that Arsenal aren’t in great form right now, while City have picked up, this is probably not the fixture they’d ideally pick if they could, but it’s also true that they don’t have to be perfect – a draw there for a third season in a row would not be a bad result by any means.

How will injuries impact things?

Another worry for Arsenal is the sheer number of injuries they’ve had, with Bukayo Saka confirmed as missing this game, while it’s not yet clear if Martin Odegaard, Jurrien Timber, and Riccardo Calafiori will return. Even if they do, they’re unlikely to be at peak fitness or form.

City mainly have a clean bill of health, though, with Pep Guardiola confirming that Nico O’Reilly will be back, though Ruben Dias is still out and that’s a pretty big loss, while Josko Gvardiol also remains a long-term absentee.

The issue for Arsenal is that their main injuries are in attack, which is already the main area of weakness in their current squad. Noni Madueke is really no substitute for a fully fit and in-form Saka, and even if Eberechi Eze being back is a big boost, there’s no one else who offers quite the same ability to dictate a game as Odegaard does.

Eze was missed in the Carabao Cup final, so he can provide a bit of spark in the final third for Arsenal, but for the most part this current situation probably only adds to the north Londoners’ need to set up quite defensively.

Can Erling Haaland return to form?

"I don't know if there's any friction…" ? pic.twitter.com/2Ka6XYxJuT

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 17, 2026

Strangely, it’s gone a little unnoticed, but Erling Haaland really hasn’t been in great form for a while now.

The Norway international has a good record against the Gunners, scoring home and away against them last season, as well as in their encounter at the Emirates earlier on in this campaign.

In total, Haaland has 33 goals in 45 games this season, but in his last 13 league games he has just three goals, two of which came from the penalty spot.

Of course, it would be unwise to ignore the fact that he recently scored a hat-trick in the FA Cup win against Liverpool. It’s possible that we’re about to see him get back to his best form, though at the moment he doesn’t look like someone who’s going to have a lot of joy against William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.

Can Arsenal respond to bottler tag?

We’ve all seen it by now, so surely the Arsenal players have as well.

We’re talking, of course, about this viral clip from last weekend when City won 3-0 way to Chelsea just a day after Arsenal’s slip-up in the 2-1 defeat at home to Bournemouth.

?? pic.twitter.com/jdd2tGily4

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 12, 2026

This kind of thing surely has to fire Arsenal up to prove their critics wrong. This a club that has been mocked and ridiculed as bottlers for far too long. They may never get a better chance to finally change people’s perspectives.

How do you see this game going, and who do you ultimately expect to go on and win the league? Let us know your thoughts and predictions in the comments!

The post Manchester City vs Arsenal: Six things to watch in winner-takes-all title race showdown appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Following a season marked by inconsistency, AC Milan are looking to reinforce their squad to improve competitiveness. In that context, Mario Gila has emerged as a strong market opportunity, as he approaches the final year of his contract. The Spanish defender is now reportedly edging closer to the Rossoneri. However, Ousmane Diomandé has also been added to the list of priorities for the summer of 2026.

According to Daniele Longo, via Calciomercato, Igli Tare, sporting director of AC Milan, has reached a turning point in negotiations with SS Lazio for Mario Gila. After several months of talks, the Rossoneri have reached a verbal agreement with the Spanish defender, finalizing his salary and contract terms. While this brings his arrival closer, they still need to agree on a transfer fee with Lazio—something far from straightforward.

After impressing in Serie A, Gila has established as one of the league’s standout defenders, noted for his solidity and ability to build from the back. With a contract running until 2027, he could push for a move to AC Milan by refusing to renew and forcing a sale in the summer of 2026. As a result, he could join the Rossoneri for a fee in the €20–25M range, a relatively accessible price given his potential.

In their search for greater defensive consistency, the Rossoneri are not only targeting Mario Gila, but are also monitoring Ousmane Diomandé, according to Nicolò Schira. With a release clause of €80M, the Ivorian could be at the center of a major transfer, having emerged as one of the best young center-backs in the world. However, AC Milan would face strong competition from Arsenal FC, Newcastle United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich.

AC Milan have yet to finalize Tomori’s contract extension

Since the arrival of Massimiliano Allegri, the Rossoneri have managed to establish defensive consistency, relying on Fikayo Tomori as the experienced leader of the backline. As a result, the potential arrivals of Mario Gila or Ousmane Diomandé do not threaten the Englishman’s continuity. On the contrary, AC Milan must accelerate talks over a contract renewal for the 28-year-old defender, aiming to avoid his departure.

With a contract running until 2027, renewing Fikayo Tomori has become a priority for AC Milan, with the defender set to earn around €4M per season on a new deal until 2030. Although both parties reportedly reached an agreement months ago, it has yet to be officially announced, raising doubts among fans. As an undisputed starter under Massimiliano Allegri, his continuity is essential, given his role as the leader of the defense.

Cristiano Ronaldo was reportedly close to welcoming Alejandro Garnacho at Al-Nassr before the young winger chose a different path. Instead of accepting the opportunity to reunite with his idol, Garnacho moved to Chelsea, creating one of last year’s more intriguing transfer stories. What looked like a dream partnership between Ronaldo and Garnacho never materialized again, and the real reason has only become clearer later.

The Argentine talent had long admired Ronaldo, having spent time around him earlier in his career at Manchester United. That made the possibility of joining Al-Nassr especially significant, as it would have placed him alongside one of soccer’s greatest figures at a crucial stage of his own development.

Garnacho’s departure from Manchester United followed a difficult spell at Old Trafford. Reports indicated that his relationship with then-manager Ruben Amorim had deteriorated after frustration over reduced playing time and being left out of key matches.

The tension reportedly increased after the Europa League final defeat to Tottenham, where the young forward was unhappy about starting on the bench. He was later left out of the squad entirely for the Premier League season finale against Aston Villa, making an exit increasingly likely.

Al-Nassr saw major opportunity, but why did Garnacho say no?

Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr moved quickly once the player’s future became uncertain. According to Kieran Gill of the Daily Mail, the club turned its attention to him after missing out on Liverpool winger Luis Diaz.

The attraction of the move was obvious. Garnacho would have joined a growing project, received a lucrative contract, and, most notably, played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, the player he had idolized since childhood. Despite the glamour and financial rewards on offer, the 21-year-old chose another route.

The forward wanted to stay in Europe to continue developing his career, believing regular competition at the highest level would better serve his long-term ambitions. That decision explains why Chelsea eventually became his preferred destination. Remaining in European soccer meant access to stronger weekly competition, greater visibility, and a chance to continue maturing in a demanding environment.

A year at Chelsea hasn’t helped Garnacho’s future prospects

The switch to Chelsea brought a fresh start, but not complete stability. The club underwent managerial changes, replacing Enzo Maresca with Liam Rosenior, adding another layer of uncertainty to Garnacho’s situation.

Despite his arrival, questions remain about his long-term role. The Daily Express suggests that the Blues are already considering whether to cash in on him, just a year after signing the winger.

Looking back, the decision stands as a defining moment. Garnacho turned down the chance to play alongside Ronaldo, a move that would have carried both emotional and professional significance. For Ronaldo and Al-Nassr, it represents a missed opportunity to add a young, dynamic talent to their ranks.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema are once again at the center of Asian soccer’s shifting power balance, with both stars influencing a Saudi Pro League that has reshaped continental qualification. Their presence at rival clubs has pushed Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal into AFC Champions League Elite qualification spots, reinforcing how far the league has come in global relevance.

The Saudi Pro League’s transformation has placed clubs like Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal at the heart of Asia’s soccer hierarchy. With global names such as Ronaldo and Benzema leading the charge, expectations have risen sharply both domestically and internationally.

Yet continental qualification remains unforgiving, and even the strongest squads are not guaranteed a place in the top-tier AFC competition without consistent league results.

Al-Nassr last featured in the inaugural AFC Champions League Elite during the 2024-25 campaign. However, its domestic finish told a different story the following year. A third-place finish in the league pushed Ronaldo’s side into the AFC Champions League Two, a secondary competition that reflects how unforgiving qualification rules have become.

This shift was not about a lack of quality. Instead, it highlighted the growing competitiveness within Saudi soccer, where even star-studded squads must deliver consistently to remain at the highest level. Still, its campaign in the AFC Champions League Two has been strong, with the club progressing into the knockout rounds and positioning itself as one of the favorites for the title.

Al-Hilal’s high-stakes continental battle ended early

While Al-Nassr’s situation reflects qualification margins, Al-Hilal’s journey shows the competitive intensity at the top level. The club recently endured a dramatic Round of 16 clash against Al-Sadd in the AFC Champions League Elite, producing a match filled with goals, momentum swings, and a penalty shootout finish.

Despite strong performances from players such as Karim Benzema’s attacking contributions and the squad’s overall depth, the Blue Waves were pushed to the limit before eventually falling in a chaotic shootout decided by fine margins.

What comes next for Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal

Recent developments confirm that both Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal have now secured qualification for the next AFC Champions League Elite season based on their current Saudi Pro League standings. According to Sportksanet’s report, “Al-Nassr currently leads the table with a clear margin over Al-Hilal in second, with both sides mathematically out of reach of the chasing pack.”

This guarantees their return to Asia’s top-tier competition, reinforcing the league’s rising dominance in continental soccer. Looking ahead, the return to the Asian top competition represents more than qualification. It is a statement of intent from both clubs as they aim to dominate not only domestically but across the continent.

For Al-Nassr, it offers a chance to re-establish itself among the best after a brief setback. For Al-Hilal, it provides another opportunity to convert strong performances into silverware.

Maurizio Sarri was in buoyant mood after Lazio’s impressive victory at the Maradona, reflecting on a remarkable six-week run of form and paying an extraordinary compliment to midfielder Kenneth Taylor by comparing him to one of his most beloved former players.

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The Lazio head coach has overseen a significant upturn in results since a difficult period earlier in the season, and Saturday’s win underlined just how far his side have come.

“In the last month and a half this squad has made only one mistake, the game at Fiorentina,” Sarri told DAZN, via TuttoMercatoWeb.

He also singled out victories against Milan twice, Juventus and now Napoli as evidence of a group that is capable of raising their level against the division’s biggest clubs.

“There are signs of improvement both from individuals and from the team,” he added.

On the tactical approach that produced such a dominant display at the Maradona, Sarri was characteristically analytical. “We have adapted to the characteristics of our players,” he said.

“We do not have playmakers in the traditional sense, but many players who have bursts of pace and play a faster style of football.”

Lazio coach Sarri: ‘See shades of Hamsik in Taylor’

That directness was evident throughout, with Lazio punishing Napoli on the counter-attack with a ruthlessness that belied their league position.

The most evocative moment of the press conference came when Sarri was asked about Kenneth Taylor, whose energetic box-to-box display was one of the highlights of the afternoon.

The question prompted an immediate and warm response.

“You bring back pleasant memories,” Sarri said. “When I came off the pitch I saw Hamsik, and Hamsik was everything I ever wanted from a midfielder. Taylor is an intelligent boy who has had a significant impact on Italian football. He is playing in one of the most intense leagues in the world and he is doing well.”

Sarri also praised Matteo Cancellieri, whose physical attributes he felt made him ideally suited to the specific demands of this fixture.

“The three forwards we selected seemed the most suited to this type of match,” he said. “Cancellieri has immense physical qualities, technically he can still improve in his decision-making, but he was the right choice today.”

Antonio Conte delivered one of his more revealing post-match addresses after Napoli’s chastening home defeat to Lazio, accepting responsibility for failing to read his squad’s deteriorating condition while firing a pointed but carefully measured response at president Aurelio De Laurentiis over public comments about his future.

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The Napoli head coach was candid about the performance, acknowledging that the hangover from the Parma draw had clearly spread deeper than he realised.

“This was not a good match from us, we put very little quality in midfield,” he said, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.

“Lazio waited for us and hit on the counter. We had 70% possession and did not manage a single shot on target. We had studied the match but we were not good enough. When this team lacks energy, quality drops. Perhaps I was not good enough at sensing the malaise that developed after Parma.”

It was a rare and notable admission of self-criticism from a manager not given to public introspection.

Napoli coach Conte: ‘We took a kick to the teeth today’

Despite the heaviness of the moment, Conte was keen to frame the defeat as a lesson rather than a crisis. “We have taken a kick to the teeth today,” he said.

“Tomorrow we rest, and on Monday we must make the most of this experience. If we don’t, it would be serious. We need to understand why and put things right.”

He was equally clear that Champions League qualification remains very much within reach and that the work is not done.

The most pointed exchange of the evening, however, came when Conte was asked about comments made publicly by De Laurentiis regarding his future.

The coach’s response was composed but unmistakably firm.

“That is the president’s business, he can say whatever he wants, in the most absolute terms,” Conte said. “I do not respond to the president publicly. If I do, I do it in private. Because in the end, the public and the media see nothing else.”

He also pushed back against what he described as the misrepresentation of his own words in recent weeks.

“I know my name is useful for selling newspapers and filling television programmes. Sometimes phrases get taken out of context and twisted. The more we stay quiet until the season ends, the better.”

Two of Napoli’s most experienced players fronted up after a dismal afternoon at the Maradona, with Matteo Politano offering a public apology to supporters and Leonardo Spinazzola delivering a brutally honest assessment of a squad running on empty at the worst possible moment.

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The defeat to Lazio, coming after a frustrating draw at Parma, has effectively extinguished Napoli’s already slim title hopes, and both players were acutely aware of the significance of what had just unfolded.

Politano was unsparing in his verdict at the post-match press conference.

“On Sunday at Parma we stumbled and that has influenced our path, today we apologise for a horrible match in every sense,” he said, with quotes via LaLazioSiamoNoi.

He was equally firm in pushing back against any suggestion the squad had mentally switched off ahead of securing Champions League qualification. “We don’t feel we’re already in the Champions League, there are five matches left. We are not where we need to be yet.”

He also identified the root cause of the performance with painful candour.

“Lazio closed the spaces and we were not in the best condition to create, we were predictable, and without the legs you struggle against everyone. The motivations must never be missing. Today we simply were not there from the start.”

Napoli 0-2 Lazio – Spinazzola: ‘We were truly drained’

Spinazzola, speaking to DAZN, offered an equally raw assessment.

“Today we were truly drained,” he said, via LaLazioSiamoNoi.

“It is the head that moves the legs, this was not physical fatigue. I saw a team that was completely flat. We have been pushing and chasing all year and there was a small flame still burning. On Sunday against Parma it went out. When you are a squad like ours, you cannot have matches like today.”

The former Roma wing-back was also candid about the psychological blow of the Parma draw coinciding with Inter’s victory.

“We believed a misstep from them could reopen everything,” he said.

“With the Parma draw and Inter’s win, the flame went out completely. It was a difficult dream to cling to but mentally each of us kept hoping. From Monday we must think only about winning next Sunday and securing our Champions League place.”

Roma director Ricky Massara insists ‘there is absolutely no problem’ between Gian Piero Gasperini and Claudio Ranieri, as they are ‘fully concentrated’ on beating Atalanta.

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It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s three Serie A games on the Liveblog.

This has become an absolutely crucial clash for European places, especially in the wake of Como’s defeat to Sassuolo, as a win here would let Roma leapfrog Cesc Fabregas into fifth.

At the same time, Atalanta could close to within a point of the Giallorossi if they get the victory at the Stadio Olimpico.

Massara keeps Roma focused on the field

“Every element of the club is concentrated, eager to end the season on a high,” assured Massara on Sky Sport Italia.

“There is a big objective potentially up for grabs, we have a tough game this evening, but we hope to put in a solid performance. The team has always shown it is fully concentrated on the field.”

There are four players whose contracts will expire on June 30, namely Stephan El Shaarawy, Paulo Dybala, Lorenzo Pellegrini and Zeki Celik, so will any of them remain at Roma?

“There is an open dialogue with all four players and their agents. We will evaluate if there are the conditions to reach a mutual agreement.”

The main problem with Roma’s season is they have struggled against the other clubs in the top seven, picking up just six points in those head-to-head clashes.

“It’s true that we didn’t manage to beat the big clubs, other than beating Como, but we always had good performances. Tonight is an opportunity to prove that we have grown, and the fact we are in the running still for the top four despite this statistic means we have done some good things,” replied Massara.

This has been a strange few days for Roma, because coach Gasperini was irritated at the public complaints from director Claudio Ranieri, then left his press conference on the verge of tears when talking about his rapport with Atalanta President Antonio Percassi.

It all makes it unlikely that both Gasperini and Ranieri will continue working together next season.

“Dialogue exists in all clubs and even when there are discussions, those are focused entirely on improving this squad, so we are all focused on that. There is absolutely no problem.”

Massara also spoke to DAZN Italia and gave a further comment on where the Friedkin family stand on this issue.

“The owners speak with action, they are making big investments and developing the club to reach the top level. We are all working to build something big here and it is a privilege to work with these owners.”

"If they do this in public I don't want to know what's going on behind the scenes!" @_poppymiller, Nigel Reo-Coker, @TMeola1 and @IFTVMarco discuss the public fallout between Gian Piero Gasperini and Claudio Ranieri pic.twitter.com/F7tQxWQJtX

— CBS Sports Golazo (@CBSSportsGolazo) April 18, 2026

Raffaele Palladino expects ‘an open and attacking game’ between his Atalanta and Gian Piero Gasperini’s Roma, assuring they ‘welcome pressure, motivation and responsibility.’

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It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s three Serie A games on the Liveblog.

This is an important few days for La Dea, as after this showdown for European places in Serie A, they will face Lazio in the Coppa Italia semi-final on Wednesday evening.

The first leg ended 2-2, so it is all to be decided at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo.

Palladino hoping for Atalanta birthday gift

Today is the birthday of the Atalanta coach, who is hoping for a gift from his former mentor Gian Piero Gasperini.

“We are fully concentrated on tonight’s game, because it is very important and we can blow the race for Europe wide open,” Palladino told Sky Sport Italia.

“This journey started with me five months ago, and every time we slip up, people act as if the world is falling down around us, but we do not lose hope. We climbed up the table, this is a big opportunity for us, and we are certainly not thinking about the Coppa Italia this evening.”

Gasperini was with Atalanta for nine years, winning the Europa League, reaching two Coppa Italia Finals, and turning them from relegation strugglers to regulars in the Champions League.

“This job is made of pressure, motivation and responsibility. We welcome all of that, because these are the games you want to play, so we have ambition and motivation against a strong team in their own stadium,” continued Palladino.

“It will be an open and attacking game, so whoever wins the most individual duels will then win the game. We prepared well.”

Giacomo Raspadori starts this evening, having turned down a move to Roma in January because he preferred the Atalanta project, while Nikola Krstovic is preferred to Gianluca Scamacca.

“The club deserves credit for building a great squad that has so many quality options, I can choose from at least two in every role, and rotation is natural when I need certain characteristics. I wanted someone to attack the space today, and Gianluca has different characteristics to Krstovic and Raspadori.”

Paris Saint-Germain chief Luis Campos has reportedly held surprise talks with the representatives of Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli.

The Brazil international has been an inconsistent performer for the Gunners, though he showed a lot of potential when he first broke through as a youngster at the Emirates Stadium.

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Still, it’s perhaps a bit of a surprise to see PSG eyeing Martinelli, though that’s what’s being reported by L’Equipe, as cited and translated by Get French Football News.

The report also suggests PSG have held talks over RB Leipzig star Yan Diomande, who would perhaps make more sense as the Ligue 1 giants’ priority target in that position.

Martinelli could make sense as an alternative for PSG to keep in mind, especially as it may well be that the 24-year-old would perform better in a more attack-minded side, and in a slightly less competitive league.

Should Arsenal sell Gabriel Martinelli?

Arsenal surely need to offload Martinelli this summer if the money is right, as they could do a lot better on that left-hand side of their attack.

With just one Premier League goal all season (though he’s done better in the Champions League, Martinelli really seems to have gone backwards, and it’s meant Mikel Arteta’s side just haven’t looked quite good enough in the final third.

Of course, others have also under-performed, but bringing in a truly elite forward on that side could also help the rest of the attack up its game.

Would PSG really sign Martinelli?

Martinelli seems like a bit of a gamble for PSG, especially as he probably wouldn’t come very cheap.

See below for our Transfer Fit rating for this deal, which we gave a very low 9/25 – find out more about how we score these here…

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PSG already have Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desire Doue, and Bradley Barcola as options on that left-hand side, and all look a lot better than Martinelli.

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Quite simply, this rumour doesn’t make much sense at all, but it’s coming from a respectable source, so perhaps it’s going to be one to keep an eye on.

Clubs look at a lot of players and will have Plan B, Plan C, and even Plan D targets behind their favoured options.

The post Report: PSG chief holds transfer talks with surprise Arsenal star’s representatives appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard could reportedly have a chance of playing against Manchester City tomorrow as he’s been included in the travelling squad for the game.

The Norway international has been struggling with an injury in the last couple of games, having been taken off in that 1-0 win away to Sporting Lisbon in the recent Champions League quarter-final.

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It seems Odegaard may now have a chance of playing at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, though, with the reliable Hand of Arsenal account posting on X that he’s travelling to Manchester.

See below for details as a final decision on Odegaard is expected tomorrow…

? Martin Ødegaard has been included in the travelling Arsenal squad for tomorrow. Final decision tomorrow on his inclusion in the official matchday squad. pic.twitter.com/cum57qCqgU

— HandofArsenal (@HandofArsenal) April 18, 2026

It perhaps sounds like it’s a bit too much of a close call for Odegaard to realistically have a chance of starting the game, but perhaps it points towards the 27-year-old being on the bench.

That would be better than nothing, with Arsenal perhaps able to call on him as a substitute if required in what will likely be a close game in this title race six pointer.

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Arsenal facing injury crisis ahead of Man City trip

Mikel Arteta has already confirmed that Bukayo Saka is definitely out of this game, while there look likely to be other absences.

It looks touch and go for Odegaard, while Arteta also could not confirm if the likes of Riccardo Calafiori, Jurrien Timber, or Noni Madueke could make it back in time.

This has been a common theme for Arsenal all season, with others like Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel Magalhaes also missing chunks of the campaign.

City also have injuries, with Ruben Dias out tomorrow while others like Josko Gvardiol and John Stones are also long-term absentees.

The post “Final decision tomorrow” – Arsenal star given hope of returning vs Manchester City appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham were so close to a vital three points against Brighton this afternoon before a late equaliser by Georginio Rutter.

It wasn’t great defending by Spurs as they held onto a 2-1 lead late on, with Kevin Danso losing the ball in his own penalty area, allowing the ball to be squared to Rutter, who made no mistake with a clinical finish.

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It looked like Xavi Simons had won it for Tottenham as he fired in a superb goal late on in the second half, but they couldn’t hold on and are now stuck in the relegation zone, with West Ham and Nottingham Forest above them also still having games in hand.

Watch below for the critical moment as Danso’s mistake was immediately punished…

Georginio Rutter scores in STOPPAGE TIME! ? pic.twitter.com/9ulysSFg3w

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 18, 2026

Perhaps it’s being a bit harsh on Tottenham as it was a good Brighton move and a really well-taken finish, but at such an important stage of the game, and such an important period of the season, they surely needed to do better.

Can Tottenham escape relegation?

Tottenham will have hired new manager Roberto De Zerbi to get them out of trouble, but so far it’s proving a tough job for the Italian tactician.

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The north Londoners lost his first game in charge, 1-0 away to Sunderland, and could only manage a point at home to Brighton today.

Tottenham now just have five games left, and there are some tricky-looking fixtures in there…

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How many points do you see Spurs getting from these remaining games? Drop us your predictions in the comments!

The post Video: Tottenham defensive howler gifts Brighton stoppage time equaliser & keeps Spurs in bottom 3 appeared first on CaughtOffside.

In what looks set to be a season-defining showdown from the blue half of Manchester this weekend, Man City will welcome Arsenal to the Etihad on Sunday afternoon. While Pep Guardiola’s side might still have a real job on their hands in the race to recapture their Premier League crown, all the momentum is certainly […]

The post Manchester City vs Arsenal Bet Builder Tips – 12/1 Champions League Special, Analysis & Predictions appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Manchester City vs Arsenal Bet Builder Tips – 12/1 Champions League Special, Analysis & Predictions appeared first on Soccer News.

Following their elimination from the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League, Real Madrid have reportedly decided to part ways with Álvaro Arbeloa at the end of the season. As a result, they have identified Jürgen Klopp as a leading candidate to take over. However, the veteran coach appears to be moving away from the Spanish side, as he is reportedly targeting the head coach role of the Germany in a potential post-2026 World Cup move.

As Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull GmbH, Jürgen Klopp has reportedly been enjoying the pace of his current role, which allows him more time for his private life. Despite this, the German remains a target for Real Madrid to take over as head coach for the 2026–27 season. However, they are said to want him to make the first move by offering himself to the club, which could ultimately distance him from the Spanish side and bring him closer to Germany.

According to José Félix Díaz, via Diario AS, Klopp is still considering a return to the dugout. While he remains on Real Madrid’s radar, his focus appears to be on Germany, with the ambition of eventually managing the national team as the ultimate goal of his career. Although Julian Nagelsmann currently holds that position, the outcome of the 2026 World Cup could shape his future and potentially open the door for Jürgen.

Following the victory in the 2014 edition, Germany have failed to get past the group stage in the next two World Cups, marking a historic disappointment. As a result, Julian Nagelsmann is under significant pressure, needing a strong World Cup performance or risk being dismissed. In that context, the option of Jürgen Klopp could gain traction, as he is already an established figure in the soccer history and could help steer the sporting project back on track.

Real Madrid reportedly consider alternatives to Klopp

Far from being a simple decision, Real Madrid face a difficult dilemma, as the players reportedly support the continuity of Álvaro Arbeloa. However, Mario Cortegana reports in The Athletic that only a miracle would keep him in the role, as the front office believes the squad has not been maximized. While Klopp is a top priority, bringing him on board doesn’t seem like an easy task. For this reason, they appear to already be looking for reliable alternatives.

According to El Mundo, Los Blancos already have a clear shortlist of candidates to take over the head coach role, built around a key premise: Experience and strong man-management skills. In that context, Lionel Scaloni emerges as a leading candidate, with his contract set to expire in December 2026. However, he is not the only option, as they are also considering Didier Deschamps, Mauricio Pochettino, and José Mourinho.

Inter Milan are on the verge of securing their 21st Scudetto, after Napoli’s home defeat to Lazio extended the Nerazzurri’s lead at the top of Serie A.

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Next Friday, Napoli host Cremonese at the Maradona and if Antonio Conte’s side do not pick up the three points, Inter can lift the trophy with a victory at Torino on Sunday.

Inter wrapping up formalities in Scudetto race

Despite all the mathematics, the title has never really looked outside of Inter’s reach.

Cristian Chivu’s side have led the division for most of the season and look as though they will be deserved winners.

Napoli and Milan have both threatened at times but neither has had the same consistency as the league leaders.

Antonio Conte’s Partenopei were largely expected to beat Lazio on Saturday evening but goals from Matteo Cancellieri and Toma Basic stunned the hosts.

Relive all the action from the game, as well as the match between Roma and Atalanta, on our Live Blog.

Napoli really have abandoned Scudetto dreams after their first Serie A home defeat of the season, as despite a Vanja Milinkovic-Savic penalty save, Matteo Cancellieri and Toma Basic gave Lazio victory.

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The Partenopei were still smarting after the draw at Parma practically ended their Scudetto ambitions. Amir Rrahmani returned to the bench, with Sam Beukema preferred to Juan Jesus, but Romelu Lukaku, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, David Neres and Antonio Vergara were still out of action. Lazio weren’t in much better shape, as Adam Marusic, Ivan Provedel, Nicolò Rovella, Samuel Gigot and Alessio Furlanetto didn’t make the trip, with Daniel Maldini back in the squad. Maurizio Sarri faced his old club and also kept an eye on Wednesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final with Atalanta.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

It was an aggressive start from Lazio and they opened the scoring early on when Kenneth Taylor pulled back from the left by-line for Matteo Cancellieri to sweep into the far bottom corner first-time from eight yards.

Toma Basic and Matteo Politano tested the goalkeepers, but Mario Gila did just enough to stop Scott McTominay nodding in from six yards on a Politano cross.

Alessio Romagnoli made a decisive sliding tackle on Rasmus Hojlund when sent through by Kevin De Bruyne, but Lazio earned a penalty when Noslin took advantage of a lucky ricochet off Alessandro Buongiorno to go on the counter, shrugged off Beukema, and was bundled over from behind by Stanislav Lobotka.

However, Zaccagni became the latest victim of Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, who parried his third penalty of the season, and then the Lazio captain slipped to fire the rebound over the bar.

Milinkovic-Savic was decisive again with a tricky save as Cancellieri’s strike went through a defender’s legs, and Noslin couldn’t keep the rebound down.

Nuno Tavares forced another Milinkovic-Savic save with an angled drive when sent sprinting down the left, and Kenneth Taylor drilled just wide straight after the restart.

Lazio did double their lead when Nuno Tavares sprinted down the left and Cancellieri stumbled on what should’ve been a tap-in, but the ricochet fell kindly for teammate Toma Basic to sweep in from 10 yards.

Substitute Alisson Santos threatened to pull one back moments later, but his powerful angled drive thumped the outside of the near post.

Nuno Tavares failed to turn in the Noslin roll across from six yards under pressure from Miguel Gutierrez, and McTominay’s scorcher was deflected over, as Napoli remarkably suffered their fourth consecutive home defeat to Lazio. It was also their first home loss of the Serie A season.

Napoli 0-2 Lazio

Cancellieri 6 (L), Basic 57 (L)

Saved penalty: Zaccagni 31 (L)

18-04-2026 17:00

MatchDay 33

Stadio Diego Armando Maradona

Napoli

Lazio

0 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

		6'		Matteo Cancellieri (Assist: Kenneth Taylor)
Stanislav Lobotka		29'
		31'		Mattia Zaccagni
		33'		Danilo Cataldi

2nd half

		57'		Toma Basic (Assist: Matteo Cancellieri)
		60'		Kenneth Taylor
		90+1'		Boulaye Dia

Match statistic

67

Possession %

33

12

Total shots

14

Shots on target

7

8

Shots off target

6

4

Blocked shots

1

12

Corners

2

Offsides

11

Fouls

9

Napoli

Lazio

Starting lineups

32

Vanja Milinković-Savić

Goalkeeper

4

Alessandro Buongiorno

Defender

37

Leonardo Spinazzola

Defender

63'

17

Mathías Olivera

Defender

31

Sam Beukema

Defender

99

Frank Anguissa

Midfielder

46'

11

Kevin De Bruyne

Midfielder

46'

8

Scott McTominay

Midfielder

68

Stanislav Lobotka

Midfielder

63'

21

Matteo Politano

Attacker

72'

19

Rasmus Højlund

Attacker

40

Edoardo Motta

Goalkeeper

13

Alessio Romagnoli

Defender

29

Manuel Lazzari

Defender

82'

34

Mario Gila

Defender

61'

17

Nuno Tavares

Defender

32

Danilo Cataldi

Midfielder

61'

24

Kenneth Taylor

Midfielder

26

Toma Basic

Midfielder

71'

22

Matteo Cancellieri

Attacker

10

Mattia Zaccagni

Attacker

61'

14

Tijjani Noslin

Attacker

Substitutes

5

Juan Jesus

Defender

1

Alex Meret

Goalkeeper

13

Amir Rrahmani

Defender

14

Nikita Contini

Goalkeeper

6

Billy Gilmour

Midfielder

23

Giovane Nascimento

Attacker

20

Eljif Elmas

Midfielder

46'

27

Alisson Santos

Attacker

46'

3

Miguel Gutiérrez

Defender

63'

23

Giovane

Attacker

63'

30

Pasquale Mazzocchi

Defender

72'

9

Pedro

Attacker

27

Daniel Maldini

Midfielder

3

Luca Pellegrini

Defender

18

Gustav Isaksen

Attacker

21

Reda Belahyane

Midfielder

20

Petar Ratkov

Attacker

28

Adrian Przyborek

Attacker

99

Giacomo Giacomone

72

Nicolò Pannozzo

Goalkeeper

4

Patric

Defender

61'

19

Boulaye Dia

Attacker

61'

25

Oliver Provstgaard

Defender

61'

7

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Midfielder

71'

23

Elseid Hysaj

Defender

82'

Roma and Atalanta go head-to-head for European ambitions, as emotional Gian Piero Gasperini faces his past with Donyell Malen and Matias Soulé, while Charles De Ketelaere and Giacomo Raspadori start.

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It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s three Serie A games on the Liveblog.

Como’s defeat to Sassuolo has made this a particularly crucial fixture for chasing down the top four, as Champions League qualification is still up for grabs.

This is a special night for Gasperini, as confirmed by his tears in the press conference when discussing the departure after nine years with Atalanta.

His time at Roma has been mixed, and overshadowed by the recent very public disagreement with director Claudio Ranieri.

Injuries haven’t helped, as Paulo Dybala, Manu Koné, Wesley, Lorenzo Pellegrini, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson are all out of action.

Nicolò Pisilli and Gianluca Mancini are not at 100 per cent either, so Neil El Aynaoui and Devyne Rensch start in midfield.

Stephan El Shaarawy steps in with Soulé to support Malen, who is fresh off a hat-trick in the 3-0 victory over Pisa.

Atalanta had been marching up the standings until last week’s 1-0 home defeat to Juventus, which could yet prove a pivotal moment in this season’s hunt for European places.

Isak Hien has joined Kamaldeen Sulemana on the treatment table, while coach Raffaele Palladino has to keep an eye on Wednesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Lazio.

Scamacca is available again, but only on the bench, and Raspadori is pushing to find full fitness after his injury, so they start with Charles De Ketelaere.

There is bound to be tension here too, because Roma tried to sign Raspadori from Atletico Madrid in January, but he preferred La Dea.

It allows ex-Roma man Nicola Zalewski to rest, as Lorenzo Bernasconi steps in too.

Atalanta have an extraordinary record against Roma, unbeaten since a 1-0 result here in March 2022, followed by six wins and a draw.

Palladino, who was Gasperini’s protégé, beat him 1-0 in Bergamo back in January thanks to a Giorgio Scalvini goal.

Roma vs. Atalanta line-ups

Roma: Svilar; Mancini, Ndicka, Hermoso; Celik, Cristante, El Aynaoui, Rensch; Soulé, El Shaarawy; Malen

Atalanta: Carnesecchi; Scalvini, Djimsiti, Kolasinac; Bellanova, De Roon, Ederson, Zappacosta; De Ketelaere, Raspadori; Krstovic

18-04-2026 19:45

MatchDay 33

Stadio Olimpico

Roma

Atalanta

1 - 1

Player statistic

1st half

		12'		Nikola Krstovic (Assist: Marten de Roon)
Mario Hermoso (Assist: Devyne Rensch)		45'

2nd half

		65'		Éderson
Niccolò Pisilli		75'
		90+1'		Berat Djimsiti

Match statistic

53

Possession %

47

19

Total shots

8

9

Shots on target

2

4

Shots off target

3

6

Blocked shots

3

7

Corners

6

1

Offsides

3

4

Fouls

14

Roma

Atalanta

Starting lineups

99

Mile Svilar

Goalkeeper

2

Devyne Rensch

Defender

78'

5

Evan Ndicka

Defender

23

Gianluca Mancini

Defender

60'

22

Mario Hermoso

Defender

19

Zeki Celik

Defender

4

Bryan Cristante

Midfielder

8

Neil El Aynaoui

Midfielder

60'

14

Donyell Malen

Attacker

18

Matìas Soulé

Attacker

71'

92

Stephan El Shaarawy

Attacker

60'

29

Marco Carnesecchi

Goalkeeper

19

Berat Djimsiti

Defender

77

Davide Zappacosta

Defender

42

Giorgio Scalvini

Defender

46'

16

Raoul Bellanova

Defender

23

Sead Kolasinac

Defender

46'

13

Éderson

Midfielder

80'

15

Marten de Roon

Midfielder

17

Charles De Ketelaere

Attacker

46'

18

Giacomo Raspadori

Attacker

90

Nikola Krstovic

Attacker

Substitutes

3

Angeliño

Defender

95

Pierluigi Gollini

Goalkeeper

24

Jan Ziolkowski

Defender

97

Bryan Zaragoza

Attacker

70

Giorgio De Marzi

Goalkeeper

61

Niccolò Pisilli

Midfielder

60'

87

Daniele Ghilardi

Defender

60'

20

Lorenzo Venturino

Attacker

60'

78

Robinio Vaz

Attacker

71'

12

Konstantinos Tsimikas

Defender

78'

10

Lazar Samardžić

Midfielder

57

Marco Sportiello

Goalkeeper

9

Gianluca Scamacca

Attacker

5

Mitchel Bakker

Defender

7

Kamaldeen Sulemana

Midfielder

6

Yunus Musah

Midfielder

59

Nicola Zalewski

Midfielder

46'

3

Odilon Kossounou

Defender

46'

69

Honest Ahanor

Defender

46'

8

Mario Pasalic

Midfielder

80'

Jamie Vardy will play no part in Cremonese’s Serie A home clash with Torino on Sunday, with Marco Giampaolo leaving the veteran English striker out of his 23-man squad as the club continues to manage his fitness carefully.

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Vardy has been working on an individual programme throughout the past week and Giampaolo has decided against risking any setback by rushing him back into contention, via PazziDiFanta.

Norwegian midfielder Morten Thorsby is in a similar situation, having also trained separately from the main group, and he too has been left out of the squad.

With both players absent, Giampaolo will rely on Milan Djuric, David Okereke, Federico Bonazzoli and Antonio Sanabria as his attacking options for a fixture that carries significant weight in the relegation battle.

Cremonese squad vs Torino as Vardy misses out

Goalkeepers: Audero, Silvestri, Nava
Defenders: Luperto, Baschirotto, Bianchetti, Ceccherini, Terracciano, Faye, Folino
Midfielders: Pezzella, Barbieri, Zerbin, Lottici Tessadri, Floriani Mussolini, Vandeputte, Payero, Grassi, Bondo
Forwards: Djuric, Okereke, Bonazzoli, Sanabria

Manchester City reportedly lead Arsenal in the race for the transfer of Newcastle United full-back Tino Livramento.

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The 23-year-old has shone at St James’ Park and could now be someone the Magpies struggle to keep hold of, though it seems Arsenal might struggle to afford him.

That’s according to a report from TEAMtalk, which states that Man City currently look more likely to be able to make the right kind of financial commitment to sign Livramento this summer.

The report suggests Livramento is one of City’s top targets, but that Arsenal also have a strong interest in the England international.

Tino Livramento looks ready for a big move

Livramento has looked like an elite talent for some time now, having first really caught the eye at former club Southampton.

Ex-Gunner Theo Walcott was full of praise for Livramento at the time, telling talkSPORT that he had been “fantastic” for them and that he even reminded him of Gareth Bale.

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“It just shows that there’s a future star there but again we need to be careful as we always do but its why we love football isn’t it? I can’t complain, he’s been absolutely fantastic,” Walcott said of Livramento back in 2021.

“Do you know what, he reminds me a little bit of Gareth (Bale) when he came through as a full-back.

“That’s a big statement of course to compare him to someone like that but just feel like his presence and the way he drives and the pace and the power and it’s no surprises that you know what he’s going to do.

“He’s so strong with the ball and very clever and technically he is fantastic.”

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Newcastle could lose star names this summer

TEAMtalk also mention Newcastle facing interest in Italian midfield maestro Sandro Tonali this summer.

IT could be a difficult transfer window again for NUFC after they lost Alexander Isak last year, with Tonali and Livramento’s futures now looking uncertain.

On top of that, the Telegraph have reported on Anthony Gordon wanting to leave, and the England international wasn’t in Eddie Howe’s squad for the Bournemouth game today.

The post Man City lead Arsenal in race to sign “fantastic” star who’s been compared to Gareth Bale appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Newcastle United are reportedly pushing the strongest for the potential transfer of Hertha Berlin wonderkid Kennet Eichhorn.

The likes of Arsenal, Manchester City, Bayern Munich, and RB Leipzig are also credited with an interest in the highly-rated 16-year-old, who is fast becoming one of the most sought-after teenage talents in world football.

However, it seems there are early signs of Newcastle making the most significant progress on a potential deal for Eichhorn, according to TEAMtalk.

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The Magpies are said to be stepping up their interest in the German youth international, though it’s also not a deal that would be entirely straightforward to get done.

Kennet Eichhorn transfer could face complications due to regulations

The report from TEAMtalk explains that there are some regulations that might impact Newcastle’s chances of signing Eichhorn for the time being.

Bundesliga clubs would supposedly hold the advantage in the race for Eichhorn as he cannot move to England until he turns 18.

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Newcastle fans will hope there’s some way around this, but it looks like an ambitious deal for their club to get done with so much competition.

It may be that NUFC can agree a deal now that sees the player move once he turns 18, but it remains to be seen if he’d really be keen on that option.

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TEAMtalk also name the likes of Bayern, Leipzig, and Borussia Dortmund as suitors for Eichhorn, and that could work well for him at this early stage of his career.

Newcastle are a big club but it would be quite a gamble to move abroad so early, so continuing his development in German football would probably be the best thing for his career progression.

The post Newcastle emerging as favourites for Arsenal transfer target appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal are reportedly one of the clubs in the mix for a surprise potential transfer swoop for Tottenham midfielder Xavi Simons this summer.

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The Netherlands international only joined Spurs from RB Leipzig less than a year ago, but has struggled in what has been a hugely challenging season for everyone associated with the club.

It may well be that Simons and Spurs are soon relegated to the Championship, in which case it’s hard to imagine him sticking around for very long.

See below as journalist Ekrem Konur now claims that Simons is already being eyed up by Tottenham’s rivals Arsenal, as well as by Bayern Munich and his former club Paris Saint-Germain…

? #Tottenham ??
Xavi Simons, Dutch midfielder at Tottenham, attracting Europe’s giants.

? Interest ? Bayern Munich, Arsenal and PSG.

? Transfer packages ? Over €50M require board approval. pic.twitter.com/yyn0kNIelK

— Ekrem KONUR (@Ekremkonur) April 18, 2026

The report states that Simons is likely to cost around €50m, but it’s also hard to imagine THFC wouldn’t charge a lot more than that if Arsenal came calling.

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Do Arsenal need Xavi Simons?

Arsenal could do with adding someone with a bit of spark and creativity to their squad for next season, with Mikel Arteta’s side sometimes criticised for lacking enough flair and quality in the final third.

It could be that Simons would be a decent option for AFC, but he only has four goals and five assists in all competitions this season.

At the same time, though, the 22-year-old has been in a struggling Spurs side and might improve with better players around him.

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It might also be that Simons will fare better after a year spent developing and gaining experience in English football.

Still, as already mentioned, the issue will surely be if Tottenham are prepared to sell to their bitter rivals, as these two clubs rarely do business together.

The post Arsenal linked with shock €50m transfer raid on PL rivals for star midfielder appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United are reportedly preparing to bid as much as €100m for the potential transfer of Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon.

The Red Devils are the latest club to be linked strongly with the England international, with Fichajes claiming they’re ready to make a big offer for him.

This comes amid a lot of speculation over Gordon’s future, with the Telegraph reporting earlier this week that the 25-year-old is open to leaving St James’ Park this summer.

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That report mentioned interest from Liverpool, Arsenal, and Bayern Munich, but not from Man Utd, so it remains to be seen how concrete this latest update is.

While it’s easy to imagine United might also have an interest in Gordon, one imagines the Telegraph’s information is probably more accurate than that of Fichajes.

That doesn’t necessarily mean MUFC aren’t going to end up being in the mix, but it probably suggests that Fichajes’ claims of a big bid being prepared probably need to be taken with a pinch of salt, or are premature at best.

Where next for Anthony Gordon?

Gordon has shone at Newcastle, having also previously looked like an exciting young talent during his time at former club Everton.

Capable of playing a variety of attacking roles, Gordon has 17 goals and four assists in all competitions for Newcastle this season, and could surely be an upgrade on some of the current attacking players at the Emirates Stadium, Anfield, and Old Trafford.

United invested a lot in attacking players last summer, though, so may well look at other positions as more of a priority for the time being, even if Gordon would undoubtedly be an exciting player to be able to bring in, perhaps as a superior option to Matheus Cunha.

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Arsenal, meanwhile, surely need someone better than Gabriel Martinelli, who has just one league goal all season, while Leandro Trossard has also lost form lately and is not getting any younger.

Liverpool have endured a frustrating season so could do with making some changes, and Gordon makes sense as an upgrade on the inconsistent Cody Gakpo.

Where do you see Gordon ending up? Let us know in the comments!

The post €100m bid prepared: Man United ready to beat Liverpool & Arsenal to attacker transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Following the arrival of Massimiliano Allegri, AC Milan secured the signing of Adrien Rabiot, who had been impressing at Olympique de Marseille. Under the Italian, the Frenchman rediscovered his best form, becoming a key figure for the Rossoneri throughout the season. As one of the team’s most important players, he was reportedly tempted to leave in the summer of 2026 after receiving a lucrative offer from the Saudi Pro League.

According to Nicolò Schira, via X, Adrien Rabiot has received a formal approach from the Saudi Pro League. In an effort to convince him to join, the Frenchman was offered a three-year contract with a very high salary—something the Rossoneri can not match. However, with a contract running until 2028 with AC Milan, he has decided to reject any offers, aiming to continue his tenure with the club.

As a central figure for Massimiliano Allegri, Rabiot has established as one of the most important players in the squad, alongside Luka Modrić. With 2,281 minutes played, the Frenchman is among the team’s most utilized players, playing a key role in orchestrating the attack. He has also contributed five goals and five assists. However, his impact goes beyond the statistics, as he has become an undisputed leader within the team.

While Adrien Rabiot has become a key figure for the Rossoneri, fans are still expecting a greater impact from him in the final third. As a box-to-box midfielder, he consistently gets into the box, but has yet to be truly decisive in terms of goalscoring. That said, it is not solely down to the player, as the squad as a whole has struggled to deliver a high-level attacking output. As a result, AC Milan are reportedly already preparing a key midfield reinforcement.

Report: AC Milan look to reinforce Rabiot with Leon Goretzka

At the start of the 2025–26 season, the Rossoneri delivered a solid run of form, even reaching the top of Serie A. However, the drop in performance from Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leão exposed the team’s overall level. Looking to strengthen Adrien Rabiot’s impact for next season, AC Milan are reportedly prioritizing the signing of Leon Goretzka, who could be an ideal complement to the squad.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, head coach Massimiliano Allegri has made the signing of Leon Goretzka his top priority. After offering him a €5M-per-season salary and a three-year contract, AC Milan are hoping to secure his arrival, viewing him as an experienced and reliable profile. However, the Rossoneri would likely need to qualify for the 2026–27 UEFA Champions League, as the German is keen to compete at the highest level.

With Goretzka’s potential arrival, Adrien Rabiot would gain stronger defensive support, allowing him greater freedom to express his attacking qualities. At the same time, the German midfielder also has the ability to contribute offensively, providing an additional threat in front of goal. Securing his addition to the squad could significantly boost Milan’s competitiveness, while also helping unlock the best version of Rabiot under Allegri.

Match Overview

All eyes shift to a key MLS showdown as Inter Miami look to regain momentum after settling for a high-energy 2-2 draw last time out, a result that showcased their attacking firepower but left them still four points shy of the top spot with 12 points.

With Lionel Messi leading the charge, Miami now prepares for a tough challenge against Colorado Rapids, a team riding solid form and sitting sixth in the standings with the same 12-point tally, though still trailing the conference leaders by six points—making this matchup a pivotal opportunity for both sides to climb the table.

Juventus have received a timely double fitness boost ahead of their crucial Serie A clash with Bologna, with both Kenan Yildiz and Khephren Thuram returning to full group training at the Continassa.

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Yildiz had been managing a knee inflammation that had hampered him in recent weeks, culminating in an underwhelming performance against Atalanta that saw Luciano Spalletti withdraw him from the action.

The Turkish forward had been working separately from the main group for several days as the club managed his condition carefully, but his return to collective training is an encouraging sign that the worst is behind him, according to the latest reports from Tuttosport.

The timing could not be more significant.

Juventus relief as Yildiz & Thuram could start against Bologna

Juventus face Bologna in a fixture that carries enormous implications for the Champions League race, particularly following Como’s defeat and the direct clash between Roma and Atalanta that will further shuffled the standings.

Three points against the Rossoblù could prove decisive in securing a top-four finish with just a handful of games remaining.

Thuram’s return to group training alongside Yildiz adds further optimism to the mood at the Continassa, with Spalletti now having greater options available as the season reaches its most critical phase.

Neither player’s involvement against Bologna has been officially confirmed, but the fact that both are back training with their teammates puts them firmly in contention.

After a period of careful management, Juventus are hopeful of having two of their most important attacking players available for one of the most important matches of their season.

Lazio director Angelo Fabiani admits Maurizio Sarri’s ‘football philosophy’ doesn’t entirely fit with the squad built for him this season, but injuries were also damaging as they visit Napoli.

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It kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 17.00 UK time (18.00 CEST).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s three Serie A games on the Liveblog.

The Biancocelesti want to climb into the top 10, but also have to prepare for Wednesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Atalanta.

As the first leg ended 2-2 last month at the Stadio Olimpico, it will all be decided in Bergamo, and may well be their only path back into Europe for next season.

Lazio had a tough campaign

“This is a big game, we care about this, the club, the coach, the players, and want a good performance. Then we will think about the Coppa Italia,” Lazio director Fabiani told DAZN Italia.

“It has been a difficult season with 45 injuries, so we had to make do, because inevitably you’re going to drop points when missing players like Zaccagni and Rovella for long periods.

“It was a reconstruction campaign, going from the older figures to young players who should provide the structure for the team in future seasons.”

Adam Marusic, Ivan Provedel, Nicolò Rovella, Samuel Gigot and Alessio Furlanetto didn’t make the trip, with Daniel Maldini back for a spot on the bench.

Taty Castellanos was sold in January, but there was no real replacement, as Petar Ratkov is barely used.

“In Maurizio’s philosophy, he prepares a player who drops deeper and works with the midfield, like Daniel Maldini. So he has used Maldini more.”

There has been tension around Lazio in recent months, with the fans often leaving the Stadio Olimpico during their boycott in protest against President Claudio Lotito’s strategy.

How can that split be healed for the good of the team?

“With hard work and sacrifice, we can all work together including those around Lazio, using common sense to get back to normality.”

This is always an emotional game for Sarri, who was the Napoli coach from 2015 to 2018, famously born in the city before moving to Tuscany, so declared himself a supporter of the club.

Antonio Conte insists ‘second place is just first place for losers’ and he hasn’t lost hope of catching Inter, but explains why Napoli tactics against Lazio today are forced by one injury.

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It kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 17.00 UK time (18.00 CEST).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s three Serie A games on the Liveblog.

The injury crisis continues, as although Amir Rrahmani returns to the bench, Napoli are still without Romelu Lukaku, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, David Neres and Antonio Vergara.

Sam Beukema is preferred to Juan Jesus, who made some costly errors last week against Parma, but also means not all three centre-backs are left-footed.

Conte explains Napoli tactical choices

“It is a technical decision, nothing in particular. It is only right that players alternate during the season, as Amir Rrahmani and Giovanni Di Lorenzo are not ready yet, so it’s important to have options to choose from,” explained Conte on DAZN Italia.

Kevin De Bruyne and Scott McTominay are currently used in support of Rasmus Hojlund, with a 3-4-2-1 formation.

“The system depends exclusively on the fact we don’t have a full-back available at the moment. Without Di Lorenzo, it’s tough to think of a different system. Besides, this tactic allowed us to recover during an emergency situation, I don’t see why I should make radical changes right now.

“Inevitably, Di Lorenzo’s injury is damaging, because he can play in a back three, as a full-back, or as a wing-back. He played practically constantly, had this knee injury, and there’s nobody else with his characteristics in the squad.

“We’ll also see about tactics when Vergara recovers and is available.”

The Partenopei know that last week’s 1-1 draw with Parma practically ended their Scudetto hopes, especially with Inter winning 3-0 against Cagliari last night to go temporarily 12 points clear.

They also need to look over their shoulders now to lock down second place and Champions League qualification, having already won the Supercoppa Italiana.

“Second place is the first place for losers, so I’m not sure that second or third changes much, it’s just about who qualifies for the Champions League,” smiled Conte bitterly.

“We are currently 12 points off Inter, we saw full well against Parma that we cannot make any mistakes, or we lose two points. Our objective is to do our best, trying to look forward, but also keep an eye on those behind us, because one or two slip-ups can change a great deal.”

There has been a lot of talk around the future of coach Conte, who has not ruled himself out of the running for a return to the Italy bench.

Jhon Lucumi will start for Bologna against Juventus tomorrow, and it may well be an opportunity to discuss a transfer, as first choice Marco Senesi is closer to Liverpool or Tottenham.

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The Bianconeri are trying to reinforce their defence for next season, having been forced to use Teun Koopmeiners there at times due to the lack of alternatives.

Juventus intrigued by Lucumi

Senesi had been a primary target, as his contract with Bournemouth is running down and he will be a free agent in the summer, but there were reports this week that he favoured a Premier League stay with Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur in advanced talks.

According to the Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus are therefore turning towards Lucumi, who is expected to start for Bologna against the Bianconeri on Sunday.

It is a valuable opportunity for the two clubs to discuss potential transfer terms, after the Colombia international had already pushed to leave last summer for Sunderland.

That move collapsed because Bologna insisted on keeping him after already selling Sam Beukema to Napoli.

There were also links with Manchester City in January that did not develop.

His current contract at the Stadio Dall’Ara only runs to June 2027, so the price tag will have dropped too, making him a more appetising prospect.

Leicester City midfielder Harry Winks has been filmed angrily shouting at a fan after today’s defeat to Portsmouth that puts the club in serious danger of relegation from the Championship.

The Foxes have endured a nightmare campaign after being relegated from the Premier League last season, with it now looking increasingly likely that they’re heading for consecutive drops and life in League One next season.

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Understandably, it seems tensions are high, but Winks really lost the plot here as he can be seen yelling in an angry exchange with an unseen fan, telling the person to “shut the f**k up” before being escorted onto the team bus…

? WOW…Harry Winks in a furious exchange with a fan…it goes from bad to worse for Leicester City ?

? via @craiglcfc pic.twitter.com/XtNRiIBFeC

— CaughtOffside (@caughtoffside) April 18, 2026

This seems far from ideal at a time when everyone at the King Power Stadium needs to be sticking together, and one imagines Winks will have to issue an apology for losing it at a fan like this.

Leicester City nightmare continues as relegation now inevitable

Leicester are currently 23rd in the Championship and a whole eight points from safety with only three games left to play.

More Stories / Latest News

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In short, there’s really very little prospect of LCFC staying up this season, meaning they’re looking at life in English football’s third tier next season.

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Leicester finished 18th in the Premier League last season, going straight back down after just one season back in the top flight, and they’ve just been unable to rescue themselves from this negative spiral.

Remarkably, it’s just ten years ago that this club won the Premier League title in what is one of football’s most remarkable fairytales, and it can’t be too often that a club has gone from being champions of England to playing in the third tier in the space of just a decade.

The post “Shut the f**k up!” – Harry Winks in angry exchange with Leicester fan as shock relegation looms appeared first on CaughtOffside.

I’m aware there’s been a lot of speculation about Sporting Lisbon players in the last few days, with transfer rumours about two names in particular.

I’ve done a bit of digging and it looks like there are some conversations that have gone in in the last few days that has to led to a number of stories, some of which are more based in reality than others.

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So, my understanding from speaking to a variety of sources in the industry, who have asked to remain anonymous to protect relationships, is that Arsenal chiefs used the opportunity to speak to their Sporting counterparts.

Arsenal discuss three Sporting players

Arsenal have been among the clubs linked with two players: Ousmane Diomande and Morten Hjulmand. There’s also been talk of others like Chelsea and Manchester United being credited with an interest in those players.

Sources confirmed to me that Arsenal asked about both Diomande and Hjulmand, but also about young Spanish right-back Ivan Fresneda.

However, it’s important to note that conversations like this when club officials are visiting during games is very common and not necessarily a sign that the aforementioned players are priority targets. It’s more about establishing relationships and asking to be kept in the loop if certain players are going to be available.

It’s also likely that links with the likes of Chelsea and Man United would have come from Sporting’s side to try to strengthen their own negotiating position if it were to come to dealing with Arsenal.

Will Arsenal and Sporting negotiate another transfer?

Interestingly, I’ve heard mixed messages about Arsenal’s relationship with Sporting after slightly tense negotiations over Viktor Gyokeres last summer.

The Gunners ended up bringing in the Sweden international from the Portuguese giants, but there was a lengthy back and forth that some sources said left some “bad blood” between the clubs.

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Not everyone is convinced that will be an issue, however, and I’m inclined to believe them. Some clubs have better relationships than others, but it’s normal for talks over major deals to run into complications.

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Apr 18 2026, 19:48

At the end of the day, Sporting are known for selling players when the time is right, and if a club like Arsenal come in with decent money then there’s always a chance of an agreement.

Players like Diomande, Hjulmand, and Fresneda will also likely be keen, just as Gyokeres was, to take the chance to move to a major Premier League club if the interest is there.

The post Sources: Arsenal ask Euro giants about three potential signings despite “bad blood” appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Even though they are coming off a MLS title, Inter Miami CF are enduring a difficult season, as the retirements of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets have proven challenging, ultimately leading to the departure of Javier Mascherano. Following this, they turned to Guillermo Hoyos as head coach, with his debut coming against Colorado Rapids. As a result, fans are closely monitoring the status of Lionel Messi.

According to José Armando Rodríguez, via X, Lionel Messi has traveled and trained normally with Inter Miami CF. As a result, head coach Guillermo Hoyos will opt to start the Argentine, as the team is in need of a win following their last two draws in MLS. The Herons are not in their best form, so the veteran’s presence could serve as a turning point in their season to clinch a winning streak.

Alongside the Argentinean, German Berterame will start again in the lineup, having shined in the latest game. Nonetheless, Luis Suarez is well-rested and could provide a significant boost in front of goal, coming off bench. Meanwhile, coach Hoyos will continue to rely on Rodrigo De Paul as a key figure in midfield amid the team’s inconsistent performances.

Colorado Rapids are coming off an emphatic 6–2 victory over Houston Dynamo, providing a major boost as they look to build a winning streak in MLS. However, head coach Matt Wells faces a tough challenge, with Miguel Navarro, Theodore Ku-Dipietro, Reggie Cannon, and Connor Ronan all sidelined through injury. Despite these absences, they will look to Rafael Navarro to remain a difference-maker, as he comes in off an impressive brace.

Colorado Rapids lineups vs Inter Miami

Despite their strong form, Colorado Rapids will not have an easy matchup against Inter Miami CF, as Lionel Messi is capable of breaking down their defensive line. Nevertheless, the Rapids have shown they are one of the most dangerous attacking teams, with Paxten Aaronson and Rafael Navarro playing key roles. As a result, they will look to control the game and set the offensive tempo against the Herons’ vulnerable defense.

Considering this, Colorado Rapids will lineup as follows:

Inter Miami lineups vs Colorado Rapids

Heading into the match against Colorado Rapids, Inter Miami CF are dealing with key absences, as Sergio Reguilón and David Ayala are unavailable, while Tadeo Allende remains a doubt due to injury. As a result, head coach Guillermo Hoyos has made many changes to the starting lineup, sticking closely to the setup from the previous match, with Lionel Messi and German Berterame expected to be key in securing the win.

With this in mind, the Herons will play as follows:

Match Overview

Fresh off a statement run in the UEFA Champions League, Atletico Madrid head into the Copa del Rey final riding serious momentum after knocking out Barcelona in a grueling semifinal showdown, giving Diego Simeone’s squad a clear edge in confidence and form.

However, Real Sociedad, despite a stretch of uneven results, view this matchup as their golden chance to lift silverware and flip the script, setting the stage for a high-pressure battle between two determined sides—make sure you don’t miss a minute of what promises to be a thrilling final.

Match Overview

The race for a top-four spot in the UEFA Champions League is heating up, and the stakes couldn’t be higher as Chelsea and Manchester United prepare for a pivotal showdown between direct rivals. Both sides come into this matchup reeling, with Chelsea trying to recover from a humbling 3-0 defeat against Manchester City.

Meanwhile, United are looking to respond after a frustrating loss to Leeds United. With confidence shaken and every point now crucial, this clash between two Big Six contenders could have a major impact on the final standings—don’t miss what promises to be a high-stakes battle.

Sky Sport Italia reports that Croatian midfielder Luka Modric has set three conditions for staying at Milan beyond the summer, one of which is that Massimiliano Allegri continues as manager.

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Latest Modric transfer updates

Modric’s Milan contract expires at the end of the season, and even if the Rossoneri have an option to extend until 2027, they’ll activate their clause only if the Croat is happy to stay for a second campaign.

According to Sky Sport Italia, Modric has outlined three conditions for remaining at San Siro: Champions League qualification, Massimiliano Allegri’s stay, and a competitive project.

Modric, a former Real Madrid star, joined Milan on a free transfer last summer and has been a regular starter under Allegri this season, beginning 30 Serie A matches out of 32.

Allegri has recently been linked with the Italy job and hasn’t yet confirmed that he’ll stay at Milan beyond the summer.

However, during a press conference on Saturday, the Italian tactician noted that he’s not been accustomed to frequent changes in his coaching career, suggesting that he might remain at the club for at least one more season.

Napoli hope Kevin De Bruyne, Scott McTominay and Rasmus Hojlund can get them back on track, as Maurizio Sarri’s Lazio start Mattia Zaccagni and Matteo Cancellieri.

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It kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 17.00 UK time (18.00 CEST).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s three Serie A games on the Liveblog.

Napoli need a victory to maintain any slender hope of keeping up with leaders Inter, but also need to look over their shoulders as the fight for the top four hots up after their 1-1 draw at Parma.

The absentee list remains extensive, including Romelu Lukaku, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, David Neres and Antonio Vergara, but Amir Rrahmani returns to the bench.

The ‘Fab Four’ of Stanislav Lobotka, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, De Bruyne and McTominay again start together in support of the ever-present Hojlund.

Sam Beukema is chosen rather than Juan Jesus, who made costly errors last week.

It is always a special match for former Napoli coach Sarri, but he has if anything even worse injury problems than Antonio Conte.

Adam Marusic is only the latest to join Ivan Provedel, Nicolò Rovella, Samuel Gigot and Alessio Furlanetto on the treatment table, but Daniel Maldini does return for a spot on the bench.

Sarri has to look ahead to Wednesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Atalanta, as the first leg ended 2-2 last month, and it is their last chance to salvage a traumatic season.

After several games used in midfield, Patric is rested, as Danilo Cataldi is approaching full fitness, but Mario Gila shakes off a knock to start.

Zaccagni and Cancellieri flank Tijjani Noslin as the centre-forward, leaving Gustav Isaksen and Boulaye Dia on the bench.

It was a famously ill-tempered affair the last time these sides met, Napoli emerging 2-0 winners with Noslin, Adam Marusic and Pasquale Mazzocchi sent off.

Napoli vs. Lazio official line-ups

Napoli: Milinkovic-Savic; Beukema, Buongiorno, Olivera; Politano, Lobotka, Anguissa, Spinazzola; De Bruyne, McTominay; Hojlund

Lazio: Motta; Lazzari, Gila, Romagnoli, Nuno Tavares; Taylor, Cataldi, Basic; Cancellieri, Noslin, Zaccagni

18-04-2026 17:00

MatchDay 33

Stadio Diego Armando Maradona

Napoli

Lazio

0 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

		6'		Matteo Cancellieri (Assist: Kenneth Taylor)
Stanislav Lobotka		29'
		31'		Mattia Zaccagni
		33'		Danilo Cataldi

2nd half

		57'		Toma Basic (Assist: Matteo Cancellieri)
		60'		Kenneth Taylor
		90+1'		Boulaye Dia

Match statistic

67

Possession %

33

12

Total shots

14

Shots on target

7

8

Shots off target

6

4

Blocked shots

1

12

Corners

2

Offsides

11

Fouls

9

Napoli

Lazio

Starting lineups

32

Vanja Milinković-Savić

Goalkeeper

4

Alessandro Buongiorno

Defender

37

Leonardo Spinazzola

Defender

63'

17

Mathías Olivera

Defender

31

Sam Beukema

Defender

99

Frank Anguissa

Midfielder

46'

11

Kevin De Bruyne

Midfielder

46'

8

Scott McTominay

Midfielder

68

Stanislav Lobotka

Midfielder

63'

21

Matteo Politano

Attacker

72'

19

Rasmus Højlund

Attacker

40

Edoardo Motta

Goalkeeper

13

Alessio Romagnoli

Defender

29

Manuel Lazzari

Defender

82'

34

Mario Gila

Defender

61'

17

Nuno Tavares

Defender

32

Danilo Cataldi

Midfielder

61'

24

Kenneth Taylor

Midfielder

26

Toma Basic

Midfielder

71'

22

Matteo Cancellieri

Attacker

10

Mattia Zaccagni

Attacker

61'

14

Tijjani Noslin

Attacker

Substitutes

5

Juan Jesus

Defender

1

Alex Meret

Goalkeeper

13

Amir Rrahmani

Defender

14

Nikita Contini

Goalkeeper

6

Billy Gilmour

Midfielder

23

Giovane Nascimento

Attacker

20

Eljif Elmas

Midfielder

46'

27

Alisson Santos

Attacker

46'

3

Miguel Gutiérrez

Defender

63'

23

Giovane

Attacker

63'

30

Pasquale Mazzocchi

Defender

72'

9

Pedro

Attacker

27

Daniel Maldini

Midfielder

3

Luca Pellegrini

Defender

18

Gustav Isaksen

Attacker

21

Reda Belahyane

Midfielder

20

Petar Ratkov

Attacker

28

Adrian Przyborek

Attacker

99

Giacomo Giacomone

72

Nicolò Pannozzo

Goalkeeper

4

Patric

Defender

61'

19

Boulaye Dia

Attacker

61'

25

Oliver Provstgaard

Defender

61'

7

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Midfielder

71'

23

Elseid Hysaj

Defender

82'

Nesta Elphege’s debut Serie A goal has practically secured Parma’s Serie A status with a surprise victory away to Udinese.

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The Friulani confirmed their giant-killer reputation by beating Milan and holding Como, but lost Keinan Davis to injury along with Jordan Zemura and Alessandro Zanoli. Parma were winless in six, but held Lazio and Napoli to stalemates. Benja Cremaschi and Matija Frigan missed the trip, but Mateo Pellegrino returned from suspension. Lautaro Valenti picked up an injury in the warm-up, replaced by Abdoulaye Ndiaye.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

Alessandro Circati nodded a corner inches over the bar in the opening minutes for Parma, as Maduka Okoye was caught wrong-footed.

Nicolò Zaniolo went on the counter from a Parma corner only for Zion Suzuki to smother his pass at the feet of Jurgen Ekkelenkamp, while Hassane Kamara shinned a volley wide from a promising position.

Pellegrino went off at half-time after two accidental knocks to the head, and Ndiaye made a desperate interception to stop Ekkelenkamp tapping in the Arthur Atta roll across.

Substitute Nesta Elphege made an immediate impact by scoring his debut Serie A goal for Parma, gathering the Gabriel Strefezza assist with his back to goal, turning Christian Kabasele to burst into the box and fire past Okoye.

Moments later, Strefezza’s deflected shot was fingertipped over the bar, while Atta dribbled past two to test Suzuki at the near post.

Parma should’ve been 2-0 up on the hour mark, but Elphege seemed surprised that Okoye fumbled the Enrico Delprato low cross and only poked the rebound wide.

Udinese incredibly failed to equalise on 76 minutes at the end of a chaotic move. Oumar Solet dribbled into the box and his shot was charged down, so he stood up a cross for Idrissa Gueye’s header off the crossbar, and Zaniolo then nodded the rebound wide from four yards.

Thomas Kristensen was also forced off after a neck injury, while Gueye’s glancing header from a Jesper Karlstrom cross was smothered by Suzuki.

Zaniolo had a huge chance to score deep into stoppages, but the finish was off his weaker foot and allowed Suzuki to scramble across for a fingertip save.

Udinese 0-1 Parma

Elphege 51 (P)

18-04-2026 14:00

MatchDay 33

Friuli Stadium (Dacia Arena)

Udinese

Parma

0 - 1

Player statistic

2nd half

		51'		Nesta Elphege (Assist: Gabriel Strefezza)
Nicolò Zaniolo		71'
Jesper Karlström		85'

Match statistic

57

Possession %

43

16

Total shots

10

3

Shots on target

1

9

Shots off target

5

4

Blocked shots

4

10

Corners

5

2

Offsides

1

11

Fouls

8

Udinese

Parma

Starting lineups

40

Maduka Okoye

Goalkeeper

27

Christian Kabasele

Defender

11

Hassane Kamara

Defender

64'

19

Kingsley Ehizibue

Defender

73'

28

Oumar Solet

Defender

31

Thomas Kristensen

Defender

81'

14

Arthur Atta

Midfielder

24

Jakub Piotrowski

Midfielder

64'

8

Jesper Karlström

Midfielder

32

Jurgen Ekkelenkamp

Midfielder

73'

10

Nicolò Zaniolo

Midfielder

31

Zion Suzuki

Goalkeeper

39

Alessandro Circati

Defender

14

Emanuele Valeri

Defender

15

Enrico Delprato

Defender

5

Lautaro Valenti

Defender

37

Mariano Troilo

Defender

10

Adrián Bernabé

Midfielder

66'

41

Hans Nicolussi Caviglia

Midfielder

72'

16

Mandela Keita

Midfielder

7

Gabriel Strefezza

Attacker

66'

9

Mateo Pellegrino

Attacker

46'

Substitutes

93

Daniele Padelli

Goalkeeper

90

Răzvan Sava

Goalkeeper

15

Vakoun Bayo

Attacker

38

Lennon Miller

Midfielder

29

Abdoulaye Camara

Midfielder

7

Idrissa Gueye

Attacker

64'

20

Juan Arizala

Defender

64'

18

Adam Buksa

Attacker

73'

6

Oier Zarraga

Midfielder

73'

22

Branimir Mlacic

Defender

81'

29

Franco Carboni

Defender

66

Filippo Rinaldi

Goalkeeper

22

Oliver Sörensen

Midfielder

40

Edoardo Corvi

Goalkeeper

11

Pontus Almqvist

Attacker

21

Gaetano Oristanio

Midfielder

23

Nesta Elphege

Attacker

46'

17

Jacob Ondrejka

Attacker

66'

24

Christian Ordoñez

Midfielder

66'

8

Nahuel Estévez

Midfielder

72'

3

Abdoulaye Ndiaye

Defender

27

Sascha Britschgi

Defender

75'

Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti addressed Italian players in the dressing room after the Azzurri’s World Cup play-off elimination: ‘He knew what we were going through,’ said Manuel Locatelli.

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Juventus midfielder Locatelli held a press conference on Saturday to comment on his contract extension until 2030.

Click here to read the full press conference.

The Italian midfielder also answered a question about his coach Spalletti, who was appointed at the end of October and has recently signed a new deal until 2028.

Locatelli was part of the Italy squad last month, alongside his Juventus teammates Andrea Cambiaso and Federico Gatti.

“The weeks after the penalty [against Sassuolo] and the missed World Cup were better,” he said.

“The coach immediately spoke to us Italians and said he was sorry. He knew what we were going through. He knows what it means to represent the national team.

“But he told us we had to put it behind us right away. The thing about football is that the next match gives you the chance to react, and we tried to do that.

“I think with the national team, we didn’t know each other very well, even on a personal level. When he [Spalletti] arrived, I made myself fully available,” continued Locatelli.

“When he arrived, he spoke to me in his office on the first day, and what he said was very meaningful. He knew I had become important for Juventus, he asked different things of me, and I’m at his disposal. The nice thing is that he showed trust in me right away.”

Italy have failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third time in a row.

Spalletti had been the Italy coach from 2023 until last June, when he was sacked after a 3-0 defeat against Norway in the first match of the World Cup qualifiers.

Aston Villa are reportedly preparing a concrete move to seal the transfer of Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones this summer.

Jones came up through Liverpool’s academy, but has not quite lived up to his potential, and no longer commands a regular first-team place at Anfield.

According to TEAMtalk, Villa are now emerging as strong contenders to sign the England international in what could be a summer of major changes to Arne Slot’s squad.

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Jones looks like he could be a decent addition to Unai Emery’s squad, even if he’s not quite shown himself to be good enough to start regularly for a big club like Liverpool.

Curtis Jones set for Aston Villa transfer?

TEAMtalk report that Villa and Liverpool have a good relationship, despite some issues this season with Harvey Elliott’s loan spell at Villa Park.

Elliott has not played very often for Emery’s side and LFC probably aren’t too happy about that, but that shouldn’t necessarily prevent the clubs agreeing another deal.

It surely makes sense for the Reds to offload Jones, with the Telegraph also recently naming the 25-year-old as one of the players who could be shown the door in a major clear-out this summer.

Arne Slot has hinted he would rather keep Curtis Jones

It will be interesting to see how this develops, however, as Slot himself has recently said that Jones remains part of his plans.

See below as Fabrizio Romano quoted Slot as discussing Jones’ future back in February, suggesting he was not planning to allow the player to leave…

? Arne Slot: “It’s perfectly normal that Curtis Jones is in the interest of big clubs, like us, trying to extend with him and clubs wanting to sign him”.

“He will be part of our plans for the upcoming weeks, months and also for next season”. pic.twitter.com/A9iGT3E0vV

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 14, 2026

“It’s perfectly normal that Curtis Jones is in the interest of big clubs, like us, trying to extend with him and clubs wanting to sign him,” Slot said.

“He will be part of our plans for the upcoming weeks, months and also for next season.”

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Apr 18 2026, 19:48

Jones could be a useful squad player for Liverpool, but all speculation since then suggests he’s no longer part of the long-term plan at Anfield.

That may be because Jones himself wants to leave and play more often, or it could be that LFC have decided that they’d like to take the opportunity to make pure profit from selling a homegrown player.

The post Club preparing “concrete move” to sign Liverpool star, Slot has hinted he wants to keep him appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Anthony Gordon transfer speculation is now surely set to intensify even further as he’s been left out of the Newcastle United matchday squad today.

The Magpies are taking on Bournemouth at St James’ Park, but Gordon is not involved for what has officially been reported as a slight hip injury.

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That’s according to the Telegraph’s Luke Edwards, who admits that it is not a great look for Gordon given that there’s talk of him looking to leave and that Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has spoken about not wanting to use players who aren’t 100% committed to the club…

Anthony Gordon not involved against Bournemouth 24 hours after Eddie Howe said he can only pick players who are totally committed to the club. Not a great look in that context but official reason given is a slight hip injury #nufc https://t.co/G6j3Z918Oa

— Luke Edwards (@LukeEdwardsTele) April 18, 2026

“Anthony Gordon not involved against Bournemouth 24 hours after Eddie Howe said he can only pick players who are totally committed to the club. Not a great look in that context but official reason given is a slight hip injury,” Edwards posted on X.

This follows the Telegraph reporting on Gordon being open to leaving NUFC this summer, with Liverpool and Arsenal mentioned as suitors for the England international.

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Anthony Gordon surely heading for Newcastle exit

It may be that Gordon is just carrying a knock that Newcastle have decided not to take any risks with, but it’s certainly not ideal timing.

The 25-year-old has been a key player for Howe’s side and it would be a big blow to lose him, especially after the Alexander Isak saga that dragged on for so much of last summer.

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Apr 18 2026, 18:19

It’s easy to imagine Gordon being good enough for the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal, and one imagines other clubs could also get involved in the race for his signature.

For instance, we were recently informed that Manchester City were also among Gordon’s suitors, while Christian Falk has reported that Bayern Munich‘s interest in the former Everton youngster is genuine.

The post “Not a great look…” – Liverpool & Arsenal target left out of squad as transfer talk intensifies appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford is reportedly growing increasingly unhappy with his situation at loan club Barcelona.

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The England international is unsettled and seriously considering a change as it seems Barca are now leaning towards not taking up their option to make his loan permanent.

That’s according to a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes, who state that Rashford would like his situation resolved quickly.

A lot has been written about Rashford in recent transfer reports, but it all seems to point towards his time at the Nou Camp coming to an end.

Marcus Rashford transfer saga timeline

Here’s a recent summary of the Rashford situation, which could make things slightly complicated for Man Utd in the upcoming transfer window…

• January 10, 2026: Fabrizio Romano reports on his YouTube channel that it looks increasingly like Rashford will continue with Barcelona, with the club communicating this to the player’s camp.
• January 31, 2026: Michael Carrick is described as keen to working with Rashford if he stays on as manager next season in a report from the Telegraph.
• March 18, 2026: Barcelona reportedly hope to be able to sign Rashford on loan again rather than signing him permanently, according to the Daily Mail.
• March 19, 2026: BUT then a report from the Daily Mirror states that United will not accept a second loan offer for Rashford.
• March 26, 2026: Our exclusive info is that PSG and AC Milan are keeping an eye on Rashford as he looks increasingly unlikely to stay at Barcelona.
• April 16, 2026: BBC Sport report that Rashford would be open to coming back to Old Trafford next season.

All in all, it’s hard to know precisely how MUFC will deal with the Rashford situation, but there’ll surely be buyers who come in for him at some point.

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Apr 18 2026, 18:19

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It seems a bit harsh, though, that Barcelona seem so clearly to have decided against signing him after his impressive impact during his time there on loan.

The post Manchester United player unhappy with current situation and seriously considering transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

It’s now been 37 years since the Hillsborough Disaster, which has claimed 97 lives. Throughout the time gone since, the families of the victims have been fighting fiercely against in the lies and injustice done to them by the media and British authorities, and local rivals Everton have been showing their support from the beginning. […]

The post Everton pay respects to 97 Liverpool supporters who lost their lives at Hillsborough (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Everton pay respects to 97 Liverpool supporters who lost their lives at Hillsborough (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

Andoni Iraola has confirmed he will be leaving Bournemouth at the end of the season, but the 43-year-old coach says he has not spoken to any club about future employment. What next for Andoni Iraola? 🤔 He has no idea! 🤷‍♂️ pic.twitter.com/yWe7Xjf0NA — Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) April 17, 2026

The post Departing Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has no club in mind (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Departing Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has no club in mind (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

Arne Slot believes his Liverpool side could see an upturn in their Premier League form after their Champions League exit. The Reds were knocked out of UEFA’s premier competition at the quarter-final stage by reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday. Liverpool have picked up just seven points across their last five league games, though they […]

The post Slot: Champions League exit can help Liverpool in the Premier League appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Slot: Champions League exit can help Liverpool in the Premier League appeared first on Soccer News.

Cole Palmer insisted he has “no plans to move from Chelsea” despite reports linking him with a move to Manchester United. The 23-year-old has struggled for form and fitness this season, featuring in just 21 Premier League games and four Champions League matches. Palmer has scored nine goals and provided one assist in the league […]

The post Palmer has no plans to leave Chelsea amid Man United rumours appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Palmer has no plans to leave Chelsea amid Man United rumours appeared first on Soccer News.

According to Tuttosport, Juventus are the only Serie A side to have proposed a project to Manchester City captain Bernardo Silva, but Barcelona remain the Bianconeri’s biggest rival.

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Juventus are pushing to sign Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva, and according to Tuttosport, Bianconeri directors hold weekly talks with the 31-year-old’s agent, Jorge Mendes.

Latest Bernardo Silva transfer updates

Bernardo Silva confirmed earlier this week that he’d leave Manchester City at the end of his contract in June, so he’s available for a free transfer at the end of the season.

The player is reportedly tempted to join Juventus but has taken time to make an assessment.

According to Tuttospor, Juventus are the only Serie A side to have proposed a convincing project to the Portugal international, but Spanish giants Barcelona represent the biggest threat to the Old Lady, given that Bernardo Silva is fascinated by the Catalans.

Juventus are reportedly open to making an exception, offering Bernardo more than €7m per season. That is the sum that Kenan Yildiz will earn next season, more than any player at the Allianz Stadium.

Bernardo Silva earns €10m per season, and according to the report, he won’t consider offers below €8m- €9m per season.

• Read more – Bernardo Silva comments fuel transfer speculation amid Juventus interest

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Corriere dello Sport reports that Napoli President De Laurentiis has accelerated a meeting with Antonio Conte to discuss the coach’s future at the Stadio Maradona.

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Conte’s future at Napoli is uncertain, largely because the Italian tactician has emerged as one of the leading candidates for the Italy job.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Napoli owner De Laurentiis has moved up a meeting with the Italian tactician, which was originally scheduled for the end of the season.