AC Milan will face Sassuolo on Matchday 15 of the 2025/26 Serie A season. Supporters in the United States can follow every moment with complete kickoff details and broadcast information across TV and streaming platforms.

Match Overview

AC Milan return to action with momentum on their side after edging Torino in a 3–2 thriller, a result that pushed the Rossoneri to 31 points and into a share of first place in the Serie A standings alongside Napoli. While the table looks promising, Milan are well aware that the championship chase is far from settled, making every match a must-win from here on out.

That urgency sets the stage for a challenging showdown against a confident Sassuolo squad that has exceeded preseason expectations, sitting on 20 points and within striking distance of the European spots. With both teams bringing strong form and plenty at stake, this matchup has all the ingredients of a must-watch contest—make sure you don’t miss a minute of the action.

Barcelona fans mocked the delicate situation surrounding Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid.

Xabi Alonso is going through a difficult stretch in his first season as head coach of Real Madrid, with disappointing performances and results that have put his future in charge into question. In that context, Barcelona fans openly mocked the situation.

This Saturday, Los Blaugranas earned an important 2–0 victory over Osasuna at Camp Nou, a result that allowed them to remain at the top of the La Liga standings. Amid the celebrations over their team’s strong form, Catalan fans made reference to what is happening with their biggest rival.

“Xabi stay, Xabi stay,” Barcelona fans chanted from the stands at Camp Nou during the match against Osasuna. The chant, clearly delivered with irony, reflects the current perception surrounding Alonso: that his time at Real Madrid has been harmful to the team. That explains why Barcelona supporters would like his tenure to last as long as possible.

At the moment, Real Madrid are a considerable distance from the top of the La Liga standings. With Saturday’s win, Hansi Flick’s side extended its lead to seven points, although Los Blancos could cut the gap to four with a victory on Sunday against Deportivo Alaves. However, they are also at serious risk of losing second place, as Villarreal sit just one point behind with a game in hand.

Barça fans sing: "Xabi stay, Xabi stay" 😳🏟️

🎥 @NEKODeportes pic.twitter.com/4SJ3wzYlYu

— 433 (@433) December 13, 2025

El Clasico was the turning point for Real Madrid and Barcelona

The current situation of the two Spanish giants would have seemed unthinkable just a month and a half ago. On October 26, Real Madrid earned a solid 2–1 victory over Barcelona at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, consolidating their lead in La Liga at the time and showing performances that pointed toward a smooth path to success.

Since then, everything has changed for both teams. Barcelona won their next seven league matches and now sit atop the table, while Real Madrid have won only two of their last six La Liga games. Including UEFA Champions League play, the numbers are even worse: three wins, three draws, and three losses over their last nine matches.

What will happen with Xabi Alonso?

Poor results have cast serious doubt over Xabi Alonso’s future. For weeks, rumors have circulated about a possible firing if results do not take a dramatic turn soon. So far, however, those speculations have not materialized.

In fact, last week it was rumored that Alonso’s continuity depended on the Champions League match against Manchester City. Real Madrid lost that game 2–1 at home, and ultimately nothing happened with the coach, although the rumors have not stopped.

In that context, several players from the squad have publicly voiced their support for Xabi Alonso. “We are 100% behind our coach,” Jude Bellingham said this week, according to ESPN. “It’s a difficult moment for us and for Xabi as well, things aren’t going our way. After my goal I went to hug him because I wanted to show that we are together and that we support our coach,” Rodrygo explained.

A former star of the Brazil national team, where he played alongside Neymar, has been forced into retirement because of health problems.

For months, Neymar has been at the center of attention amid speculation about a possible return to the Brazil national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As one of the country’s biggest icons, he has played with many stars over the years. Now, one of his former teammates will be forced to step away from professional soccer due to serious health issues.

“This Friday morning, Oscar, from Sao Paulo, informed close friends that he will retire as a player at age 34,” O Globo reported. The news refers to the attacking midfielder who shined with Chelsea from 2012 to 2017 before embarking on a long stint in the Chinese league and returning to his home country earlier this year.

Just over a month ago, Oscar was rushed to a hospital after collapsing during a training session with Sao Paulo. Tests revealed vasovagal syncope, a temporary loss of consciousness caused by a drop in blood pressure and heart rate.

That episode followed an earlier incident in August, when cardiac abnormalities were detected during a medical check related to another injury. At the time, more serious measures were ruled out, but the situation has since escalated.

Although Oscar returned to training a few days ago, the discovery of this health condition has reportedly led him to decide to retire. The 34-year-old has “announced to close associates that he has decided to hang up his boots,” O Globo reported. “Sao Paulo are planning a meeting to settle the midfielder’s future, who has a contract with the club until 2027… The board is studying a project to bring Oscar into the club to work behind the scenes.”

Oscar’s unusual career path

Oscar’s career stands out as one of the most unusual of his generation. For several years, he was considered a world-class star, but unconventional career decisions caused him to lose that prominence at a relatively young age, culminating in this abrupt ending due to health concerns.

After breaking through with Sao Paulo and Internacional in the Brazilian league, Oscar was signed by Chelsea in 2012 for more than $30 million. He made his mark during four and a half seasons in London, scoring 38 goals in 203 appearances. He also won four trophies with the Blues, including two Premier League titles.

However, at the start of 2017, the midfielder made the surprising decision to leave Chelsea and begin a lengthy stint in the Chinese Super League. He spent eight years with Shanghai Port, registering 77 goals in 248 appearances between 2017 and 2024. Earlier this year, he returned to Brazil, but managed just 21 matches before his heart issues brought his career to a definitive halt.

The blemish on Oscar’s international career

Oscar’s status during his early years allowed him to earn a place with the Brazil national team. He was part of the squad at the London 2012 Olympic Games, where Brazil won the silver medal, and made his debut with the senior national team around the same time.

Gradually, the midfielder secured a regular role in the side ahead of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, sharing creative responsibilities with Neymar. However, Ney’s injury in the quarterfinals left a void that proved impossible to fill, and Brazil suffered a historic 7–1 semifinal defeat to Germany. Oscar scored Brazil’s lone goal that day.

From that point on, things were never quite the same for the midfielder, nor for many of his teammates from that squad. In fact, that World Cup was the last major tournament Oscar played with Brazil. A handful of friendlies and World Cup qualifiers followed in 2015, before he ultimately fell out of the national team picture for good.

AC Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri used striking language when talking about Christian Pulisic.

Christian Pulisic is arguably enjoying the best stretch of his professional career. He has established himself as the undisputed on-field leader of AC Milan and one of the top stars in Serie A, earning widespread praise along the way. Head coach Massimiliano Allegri spoke about him and offered an unusual description.

“He’s diabolical when he’s in front of the goal,” Allegri said about the USMNT forward during the press conference ahead of Sunday’s match against Sassuolo. “In his private life, he’s very reserved, but he transforms on the pitch.”

The Milan coach’s words are backed up by the numbers. Pulisic is currently the top scorer in Serie A alongside Inter Milan forward Lautaro Martinez. He has scored seven goals in nine league matches, and when combined with his two assists, he is averaging one goal contribution per game. He has also added two goals in three Coppa Italia appearances.

Despite those performances placing him among the elite of Italian soccer, Massimiliano Allegri remains optimistic about the further progress Christian can make in the near future. “He still has room for improvement,” the coach explained, before clarifying exactly what he meant: “He still needs to find his best condition.”

That observation relates to the only blemish in Pulisic’s season so far: physical issues. The American star has missed five Serie A matches this campaign due to muscle injuries, which have also affected his availability for the national team.

Allegri discusses Pulisic’s role at Milan

In the 12 matches Pulisic has played for Milan this season, he has featured in virtually every attacking position. From attacking midfielder to center forward, as well as on both wings, Christian has adapted to the team’s needs and consistently found ways to make an impact.

“I don’t know if in the future he’ll have to play deeper,” Massimiliano Allegri said in response to a reporter’s question. “I’ll just say that we have to try to get Gimenez back, hopefully… Getting Athekame, Fofana and Leao back already gives us more options on the pitch; that’s why recovering Gimenez is important.”

Indeed, Pulisic is not the only player to deal with fitness issues this season. Rafael Leao, another key figure for the team, has spent significant time sidelined with a muscle injury, as have other Milan forwards such as Santiago Gimenez. That situation, however, has not hurt the club’s ability to compete in Serie A, where they currently sit atop the table alongside Napoli.

What’s next for Milan?

This Sunday, AC Milan will host Sassuolo at home on Matchday 15 of the Serie A season. They will be looking for a win to stay at the top of the standings ahead of a crucial showdown: next Thursday, they will face Napoli in the semifinals of the Italian Super Cup, beginning their quest for the first trophy of the season.

A major African national team could be a potential opponent for Lionel Messi’s Argentina just before they face Spain in the Finalissima.

With less than six months to go until the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, national teams are making preparations to arrive at the tournament in peak form. Argentina and Spain know they will face each other in the Finalissima in March, a crucial clash with a title on the line and the last big test before traveling to North America. Days before that match, Lionel Messi and his teammates could face an African opponent.

According to TyC Sports, Senegal have a chance to play against Argentina during the March international break. While the possibility is not yet confirmed, it was the Senegalese Football Federation itself that raised the idea when announcing its upcoming fixtures for 2026.

The African team, led by star player Sadio Mane, announced that it will face the USMNT on May 31, ahead of the World Cup in North America. The federation also noted that during the March FIFA break, they are considering a match against Argentina, with Saudi Arabia being another option.

This is not a minor detail. FIFA rules prevent national teams from playing matches on different continents during the same international break. The Finalissima between Argentina and Spain is set to be played at Lusail Stadium in Qatar, so the fact that Senegal are considering Saudi Arabia as an alternative opponent shows their intention to play in Asia during that period. If that happens, Lionel Messi could face Sadio Mane head-to-head.

Senegal could be an interesting test for Argentina

While Argentina’s main focus in March will be the Finalissima against Spain, a potential match against Senegal could be valuable for head coach Lionel Scaloni. By then, only three months will remain before the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and it could provide a useful test against a team with different characteristics.

Argentina were drawn in Group J alongside Austria, Jordan, and Algeria. The latter is one of the strongest African teams, a continent against which Lionel Messi and his teammates have not competed extensively in recent years. World Cup qualifiers and the demanding schedule have made such matchups difficult.

In fact, in the past six years, Argentina have played only one match against an African opponent. That came during the November 2025 FIFA break, when they defeated Angola 2-0. To find another example, you have to go back to March 2019, when they played a friendly against Morocco.

Senegal have other priorities besides the World Cup

While Senegal are also focused on the 2026 World Cup—where they will be in Group I with France, Norway, and the winner of the intercontinental playoff between Iraq, Bolivia, and Suriname—they will face another crucial challenge first.

On Tuesday, December 23, Sadio Mane and his teammates will make their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 debut against Botswana. That will be the first of their three group-stage matches, which also include DR Congo and Benin.

Atletico Nacional face Independiente Medellin in the first leg of the 2025 Copa Colombia final. Here’s your full guide to the matchup, including kickoff details and how to catch the action live on TV or through streaming services in the USA.

Match Overview

The Copa Colombia championship kick off with a high-stakes first leg as fierce city rivals Atletico Nacional and Independiente Medellin collide in a matchup loaded with urgency and history. Both clubs were in the thick of the Group A title chase earlier this season before Junior pulled away, leaving this final as their clearest path to silverware to close out the year.

Nacional enter riding momentum after a commanding 6–3 aggregate victory over America de Cali, while Independiente Medellin punched their ticket by narrowly outlasting Envigado 2–1. With bragging rights and a trophy on the line, expect an intense, edge-of-your-seat battle—one you won’t want to miss.

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney lost an all-time Premier League record to Mohamed Salah of Liverpool.

The past few weeks have seen Mohamed Salah take center stage for a variety of reasons. He was at the heart of a public controversy after Liverpool coach Arne Slot left him out of the squad for a couple of matches, creating tension and uncertainty about his future. With things seemingly resolved, the Egyptian winger returned to play and surpassed Manchester United icon Wayne Rooney with a Premier League record.

After a conversation with Slot on Friday, Salah overcame the punishment that had kept him out of Liverpool’s UEFA Champions League clash against Inter Milan, and on Saturday he was on the bench against Brighton & Hove Albion. However, in the 26th minute of the first half, he had to come on to replace the injured Joe Gomez, which allowed him to assist Hugo Ekitike for the second goal in the Reds’ 2-0 victory.

With that, Salah became the player with the most goal contributions for a single club in Premier League history. The Egyptian winger has spent nine seasons with Liverpool, scoring 188 goals and providing 89 assists in the English league, registering a total of 277 direct goal contributions.

Trailing Mo is Wayne Rooney. The Manchester United icon had been at the top of the ranking until the start of this season with 276 contributions. The third spot belongs to another Red Devils legend, Ryan Giggs, with 271. Further down the list are Harry Kane (259 with Tottenham Hotspur), Thierry Henry (249 with Arsenal), Frank Lampard (237 with Chelsea), and Sergio Aguero (231 with Manchester City).

Unsurprisingly, Salah is Liverpool’s all-time leader in Premier League goal contributions. In second place for the club is another legend: Steven Gerrard. The English midfielder, eighth on the league’s all-time ranking, recorded 212 goals and assists during his professional career.

Salah takes a break from Liverpool

Saturday’s match against Brighton was Mohamed Salah’s last for Liverpool before he travels to Africa. The winger will join the Egypt national team ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where he will aim for his first continental title after losing finals in 2017 and 2021.

Before the tournament kicks off in Morocco, Egypt will play a friendly against Nigeria next Tuesday. On December 22, they will open their group stage campaign against Zimbabwe, followed by matches against South Africa and Angola as they aim to advance to the round of 16.

As Cristiano Ronaldo continues to redefine longevity in the Gulf, Karim Benzema now finds himself at a similar crossroads — one that has sparked growing speculation about whether his journey in Saudi Arabia is nearing its final chapter.

The Saudi Pro League has become a stage where legacies are no longer fading quietly but being fiercely negotiated in public view. As Cristiano Ronaldo continues to redefine longevity in the Gulf, Karim Benzema now finds himself at a similar crossroads — one that has sparked growing speculation about whether his journey in Saudi Arabia is nearing its final chapter. With contract rumors swirling and reports contradicting one another, the Al-Ittihad captain has finally addressed the uncertainty — albeit without revealing everything at once.

Despite turning 38 next week, Benzema remains one of the most influential forwards in the Saudi Pro League, both statistically and symbolically. His arrival at Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2023, following an iconic career at Real Madrid, was meant to anchor the club’s ambitious long-term project. While his first campaign was disrupted by injuries and criticism, the Frenchman responded emphatically.

The veteran striker rediscovered peak efficiency before the late November break, scoring six goals in just three matches across eight days. That purple patch reminded observers why he was still considered elite when he left Europe. The comparison with Ronaldo is unavoidable. Both are nearing the end of their careers, both are central figures in Saudi soccer’s global branding, and both are still expected to deliver week after week.

Benzema himself has been open about the changes he made to prolong his relevance at the top level. After admitting that his first season in the Middle East was “very average,” the striker completely overhauled his physical routine, committing to additional gym work, stricter nutrition, and disciplined sleep cycles. The results were undeniable.

Last season, he produced 21 goals and nine assists in 29 league matches, leading Al-Ittihad to a historic domestic double — winning both the league and the cup. This season, he has already scored 11 goals in 12 matches across all competitions, despite Al-Ittihad sitting eight points off the podium after nine rounds. Still, questions remain. Age, competition, and squad evolution all hover over Benzema’s future — and that uncertainty has only grown louder in recent weeks.

Growing cloud of doubt about his future

French outlet Foot Mercato recently poured cold water on reports suggesting Benzema had already agreed to extend his stay in Jeddah. According to their information, no official renewal offer has been presented, despite claims circulating in both Saudi and European media. Meanwhile, journalist Nicolo Schira reported that Benzema is prepared to leave Al-Ittihad as a free agent once his current deal expires, a claim that intensified speculation around his next move.

Al-Ittihad’s position is said to be clear: the club wants to keep Benzema for at least two more seasons, viewing him as a cornerstone of its sporting identity. But without a formal proposal on the table, everything remains unresolved.

What did Benzema say?

Amid the noise, Benzema finally addressed his situation in an interview with L’Equipe — and it was here that the mystery gained clarity. “I’m really focused on what I’m doing, whether it’s for these last six months or for after if I extend my contract. Some people are better placed to talk about all that.”

Then came the line that cut through every rumor. “Right now, I have six months left on my contract.”That ten-word clarification instantly reframed the entire conversation, before adding, “So, I’m completely focused on football.” There is no signed extension, no hidden agreement, no imminent announcement — just a captain focused on the present, fully aware that time is now the most valuable currency of his career.

Xabi Alonso finds himself under intense scrutiny after a run of inconsistent results, while Jurgen Klopp—despite stepping away from the dugout—has once again been linked with the most demanding job in club soccer.

Speculation rarely sleeps in Madrid, and with Kylian Mbappe leading the line at the Bernabeu, every managerial whisper feels louder than usual. Xabi Alonso finds himself under intense scrutiny after a run of inconsistent results, while Jurgen Klopp—despite stepping away from the dugout—has once again been linked with the most demanding job in club soccer. The question hanging over Europe is simple but loaded: Could Klopp really be the next man entrusted with guiding Real Madrid’s galaxy of stars?

Alonso’s tenure at Real Madrid has entered a critical phase. While the club remains second in La Liga and is still alive in Europe, recent performances have fallen short of expectations. Reports from the Spanish press describe a team struggling for rhythm, having won just two of their last eight matches in all competitions, and the atmosphere around the coach has inevitably tightened.

According to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, the Spanish boss will remain in charge for the upcoming league fixture against Deportivo Alaves, but the margin for error is shrinking fast. There has been no official statement from the club hierarchy, yet sources close to the situation suggest patience is thinning as the season reaches a decisive stretch.

Big fixtures in La Liga and Europe leave little room for prolonged dips in form, and Sunday’s match against Alaves has been framed as a defining moment. A convincing performance could buy Alonso time; another stumble may accelerate discussions behind closed doors. It is in this context that familiar names resurface. Among them, none carries more weight—or intrigue—than Jurgen Klopp, as per El Mundo‘s earlier report.

Why Jurgen Klopp’s name keeps returning

Klopp’s profile fits almost perfectly with what Los Blancos often seek in moments of uncertainty: authority, charisma, and a proven ability to rebuild belief. His work at Liverpool, where he transformed near-misses into sustained dominance, still resonates across Europe. Now serving as Global Head of Football for Red Bull, Klopp has stepped away from the relentless grind of daily management.

Yet reports from Germany and Spain have repeatedly placed him on Madrid’s theoretical shortlist, especially as doubts around Alonso grow. The idea of the 58-year-old serial winner coaching Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham is tantalizing for supporters—and unsettling for rivals. It represents a potential reset, not just tactically but emotionally, at a club that thrives on momentum.

Red Bull forced to speak out

Midway through the speculation, a decisive voice finally cut through the noise. Oliver Mintzlaff, a senior Red Bull executive and close collaborator of Klopp, addressed the rumors directly. Speaking to Leipziger Volkszeitung, Mintzlaff delivered a blunt clarification that reshaped the entire debate. According to him, Klopp has already communicated a clear position on his immediate future: “He has made it clear that he doesn’t want to be a coach at the moment.”

In other words, the German coach has no intention of returning to the touchline right now. That statement effectively shuts the door—at least for the moment—on the idea of Klopp replacing Alonso, regardless of Madrid’s interest or the scale of the opportunity.

Mohamed Salah reportedly received a tempting offer from the Saudi Pro League that could place him above Cristiano Ronaldo.

Since his arrival at the beginning of 2023, Cristiano Ronaldo has been indisputably the main star of the Saudi Pro League. He is the highest-paid player in the world and has served as a beacon for a large number of players who followed his path from Europe. However, now Mohamed Salah could challenge that dominance.

The Egyptian winger is in an unusual situation at Liverpool, having lost his spot in the starting lineup under head coach Arne Slot. This sparked a controversy that included explosive statements from Salah, his subsequent absence in Liverpool’s UEFA Champions League match against Inter Milan, and a return as a substitute against Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League on Saturday.

In that context, Mo’s situation has drawn attention from Asia. “Arabia already wants Salah. The Saudi league wants to sign him in January, and if they don’t succeed, they will come back for him in the summer,” reported Diario AS on Saturday.

Knowing Salah’s prestige and how difficult it would be to convince him to leave the elite of European soccer, the offer to persuade him has to be massive. “From Arabia, they are offering him to be the highest-paid player in the league, ahead of Cristiano. In addition, 100% of his image rights, shares in the team he signs for, and a role as ambassador for the 20234 World Cup, to make the Egyptian golden,” AS added.

How much does Cristiano Ronaldo earn in Saudi Arabia?

Reports indicating that the Saudi Pro League is willing to make Mohamed Salah the highest-paid player in the country are significant. That would mean surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo, who since joining Al Nassr is not only the highest-paid player in Saudi Arabia but in the world.

In July of this year, Ronaldo renewed his contract with Al Nassr for two more years, through the end of the 2026-27 season. Under that new deal, the Portuguese forward earns an impressive $244 million annually. That figure puts him well ahead of the second on the list, Lionel Messi, who earns around $110 million in total compensation at Inter Miami, according to Sports Illustrated.

If the rumors are confirmed and Salah agrees to move to Saudi Arabia for the reported figures, he would see an incredible boost in earnings. Spotrac reports that the Egyptian winger currently earns around $20 million annually at Liverpool, meaning his salary could multiply more than 12 times.

Salah could become the new face of the Saudi Pro League

Despite maintaining impressive scoring records on the field, Cristiano Ronaldo doesn’t have much time left as a professional player. He will soon turn 41 and has acknowledged on multiple occasions that retirement is near.

With Karim Benzema in a similar situation, and even amid rumors of a possible departure from Al Ittihad, the Saudi Pro League may soon need a new superstar to represent the league globally, attract fans, and motivate players to follow a similar path.

Salah has the elements to fill that role. While his level of success and fame doesn’t yet match Cristiano Ronaldo, he has two major advantages. The first is age, as he is 33 and still has several years ahead as a professional player. The second is his origin: being Egyptian makes him a huge figure in the region. These factors could be decisive in convincing the Saudi Pro League to make the efforts necessary to sign him.

With Hollywood whispers growing louder, a provocative question has resurfaced: what happens when soccer superstardom meets the silver screen?

Cristiano Ronaldo has never been short of ambition beyond the pitch, and as his playing career continues to defy age, the Portuguese icon now appears to be edging toward an entirely new arena. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi remains a constant point of comparison whenever soccer’s biggest names cross into popular culture. With Hollywood whispers growing louder, a provocative question has resurfaced: what happens when soccer superstardom meets the silver screen?

That question gained new momentum after Vin Diesel dropped a tantalizing hint involving the Al-Nassr forward and one of cinema’s most lucrative franchises. The speculation began when Fast & Furious star and creative force Vin Diesel shared a social media post featuring the Portuguese superstar, accompanied by a caption that instantly went viral.

Diesel confirmed that a role had been written specifically for Ronaldo within the Fast & Furious universe, igniting excitement across both soccer and film communities. “Everyone asked, would he be in the Fast mythology… I gotta tell you, he is a real one. We wrote a role for him…” Diesel wrote, tagging the superstar directly. The timing of the revelation was striking. With Fast & Furious 11 expected to serve as the final chapter of the franchise, any new addition carries enormous symbolic weight.

The saga, which has generated billions at the global box office, is preparing for a climactic send-off — and Ronaldo’s potential involvement would be one of its boldest crossovers yet. According to Diesel, the idea of casting Ronaldo is not new. A role was initially conceived for Los Bandoleros, a 2009 short film that expanded the Fast & Furious mythology. At the time, the forward was completing his world-record move from Manchester United to Real Madrid, a moment that made any Hollywood cameo logistically impossible.

What reignited speculation was Diesel’s subtle edit to his original post. The explicit reference to Los Bandoleros was later removed, leaving only the confirmation that a role had been written — without specifying when or where it might appear. That single change sparked widespread theories that Ronaldo’s cameo could instead materialize in the upcoming feature-length finale.

Why Cristiano Ronaldo fits the Fast & Furious universe

Few athletes possess the global reach required to transcend sport and command mainstream cinematic attention. Cristiano Ronaldo does. With hundreds of millions of social media followers, unmatched brand recognition, and a carefully cultivated public persona, Ronaldo aligns perfectly with a franchise built on spectacle, physicality, and larger-than-life characters. His presence would not merely be a cameo; it would be a cultural event.

Importantly, Ronaldo has already begun laying the groundwork for a post-soccer career in entertainment. In April 2025, he launched UR•MARV, his own film studio, in partnership with acclaimed director Matthew Vaughn. “This is an exciting chapter for me, as I look ahead to new ventures in business,” Ronaldo said at the time, per official statements released via X. Vaughn was equally effusive, describing Ronaldo as “a real-life superhero” whose stories on the pitch rival scripted cinema.

Has Lionel Messi ever appeared in a movie or TV series?

While Cristiano Ronaldo appears poised to make his first true Hollywood leap, Lionel Messi has taken a very different path. The Argentine has appeared on screen, but almost exclusively as himself, and never in a traditional acting role. His most notable appearances include the documentary Messi (2014), directed by Álex de la Iglesia, and a cameo in the Argentine series Los Protectores. He has also featured in soccer-centric documentaries and animated projects tied directly to his real-life story.

What the 38-year-old has never done is play a fictional character in a mainstream movie or television series. This distinction reflects a broader contrast between the two icons: Ronaldo actively embraces media expansion, while Messi protects an image rooted almost entirely in soccer authenticity.

Christian Pulisic has become one of the central pillars of Milan’s project, a player around whom the club’s present and future increasingly revolves. Yet while the American continues to grow in stature at San Siro, a significant figure in the dressing room may soon be heading for the exit.

Christian Pulisic has become one of the central pillars of Milan’s project, a player around whom the club’s present and future increasingly revolves. Yet while the American continues to grow in stature at San Siro, a significant figure in the dressing room may soon be heading for the exit. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, one Milan regular is weighing up a decisive January move that could reshape both his international prospects and the club’s short-term plans.

For the Rossoneri, the coming weeks may therefore bring difficult decisions — sporting, financial, and strategic — as the January transfer window approaches. With the expanded format of the 2026 World Cup expected to allow larger squad sizes than previous tournaments, competition for places in national teams remains as fierce as ever.

According to MilanNews.it and Calciomercato, Milan midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek has made it clear that regular minutes are now his absolute priority, even if that means pushing for a mid-season exit. The logic is simple: playing time equals visibility, and visibility is essential to convince England coach Thomas Tuchel, who has repeatedly stressed that form and continuity outweigh reputation.

At Milan this season, that continuity has been missing. The player has featured in 15 official matches, scoring one goal and accumulating just 715 minutes across all competitions. While his availability has rarely been an issue, his status as a guaranteed starter has steadily eroded.

A utility player — but not a cornerstone

Massimiliano Allegri has consistently praised the 29-year-old’s versatility, deploying him in a wide range of roles: central midfielder, advanced attacker, emergency wing-back, and even as a makeshift forward. That adaptability, however, has come at a cost. When the squad is fully fit, he is not considered a first-choice option.

In Serie A, he has started only four league matches, with eight appearances coming from the bench. Milan’s absence from European competition and early Coppa Italia elimination have further reduced opportunities to rotate the squad, leaving league matches as the sole platform for exposure. A supporting role is simply not enough for a player targeting a World Cup call-up.

This situation has led to growing speculation that a January move is now being actively explored. Reports suggest interest from Premier League clubs, alongside enquiries from Bundesliga sides and Serie A rivals, including Napoli and Lazio. Napoli’s interest, in particular, is linked to their ongoing midfield injury crisis, while Lazio manager Maurizio Sarri — who previously worked with the player — is said to admire his profile. However, financial constraints make any deal complex.

Why Milan may not stand in the way

While the potential departure would weaken Milan’s depth, it may also align with the club’s broader strategy. Milan needs flexibility in the market, and offloading a high-earning squad player who is not central to Allegri’s plans could help accelerate negotiations elsewhere.

Moreover, the club is well aware that players chasing international ambitions rarely accept prolonged bench roles, especially with a World Cup staged across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Even Tuchel himself has been explicit about his criteria. Speaking recently, the England manager said: “The door is always open for guys who perform on a regular and high level… Ruben needs more starts, more minutes.” That message has seemingly resonated.

As Neymar battled injuries, form, and time itself, Santos and Brazil are linked by a single question: What comes next for Neymar as the 2026 World Cup approaches? Carlo Ancelotti, overseeing Brazil’s rebuild, is overseeing every step.

For months, uncertainty has hovered over one of soccer’s most emotional reunions. Neymar returned home with hope, history, and unfinished business — yet his future remains delicately balanced between club loyalty and international ambition. As the Brazilian star battled injuries, form, and time itself, Santos and Brazil are linked by a single question: What comes next for Neymar as the 2026 World Cup approaches? Carlo Ancelotti, overseeing Brazil’s rebuild, is overseeing every step.

Neymar’s second spell at Santos has been anything but straightforward. Injury problems that haunted him in Europe and Saudi Arabia followed him back to Brazil, limiting his rhythm and availability. During the 2025 Brazilian Serie A campaign, he featured in just 20 of 38 league matches, registering eight goals — a modest return by his own extraordinary standards.

At 33 years old, the veteran forward openly acknowledged the physical and mental toll of the season. After Santos’ decisive final-day victory over Cruzeiro, he reflected candidly on his year. “I think a seven is a good grade,” he said. “Now it’s time to reset my mind, forget about football for about 10 days. I need that.“

Despite setbacks, his influence proved decisive when the Peixe needed it most. Facing the real threat of relegation, Neymar played through pain to inspire three consecutive victories, effectively saving the club from the drop. His late-season surge transformed frustration into gratitude inside Vila Belmiro.

From tears to defiance: Neymar’s emotional rollercoaster

The season was punctuated by dramatic lows. Neymar missed seven of the opening nine matches with a hamstring injury. His milestone 100th home appearance lasted only 34 minutes before he left the pitch in tears. A red card for a “Hand of God” incident against Botafogo seemed to symbolize a campaign slipping away.

There were clashes with supporters, humiliating defeats — including a historic 6-0 loss to Vasco da Gama — and further muscle injuries. At one point, medical staff advised immediate surgery, warning that continued play could cause severe knee damage. Yet the Brazilian refused to stop, and that defiance culminated in a stunning act of willpower. He later confirmed he would undergo minor knee surgery before deciding his future.

With the 33-year-old publicly unsure about his next step, attention turned to the boardroom. Santos president Marcelo Teixeira finally addressed the situation — and this is where the mystery ends. The crucial 10-word update, delivered calmly but decisively, revealed Santos’ position: “Renewing Neymar’s contract is a priority for Santos right now.”

Teixeira expanded on that stance: “We are talking and negotiating in search of a common ground, adapting Neymar’s current contract to 2026,” he said. “Everything depends on the budget. We have a budget that is based on what we can spend. “There is good intention on his part, on the part of NR [the company that manages Neymar], and on the part of Santos.

“That’s already a good start. We need this adjustment to lead to a positive financial outcome for both sides. Neymar’s project is also aimed at the World Cup, and we are in this dialogue to ensure he stays.” The intention is clear: Santos wants Neymar through to the 2026 World Cup, adapting financial and contractual terms to make it viable for both sides.

Carlo Ancelotti’s cold reality check

While Santos leans toward emotion and loyalty, Brazil’s coach Carlo Ancelotti offers no guarantees. The former Real Madrid manager has been explicit. “If Neymar deserves to be there and is better than someone else, he will play,” Ancelotti said. “I don’t owe anyone a debt.”

The Selecao’s depth is formidable. Vinicius, Rodrygo, Raphinha, Gabriel Martinelli, and Estevao are all younger, fitter, and in rhythm. Neymar has not featured for Brazil in two years, and sentimentality will not dictate squad selection. As Ancelotti made clear, the Selecao can succeed with or without Neymar.

Since Lionel Messi's arrival, the ripple effects have stretched far beyond Inter Miami, reshaping perceptions of MLS and the place of soccer in a country traditionally dominated by other sports.

Few moments in modern soccer history have altered an entire sporting landscape as profoundly as Lionel Messi’s decision to move to the United States. Since his arrival, the ripple effects have stretched far beyond Inter Miami, reshaping perceptions of MLS and the place of soccer in a country traditionally dominated by other sports. With David Beckham watching his long-term vision finally come to life, the impact has now been summed up in a brief but powerful statement — one that hints at a deeper transformation unfolding across the nation.

Messi’s presence has not only elevated the club in pink but also placed the league and the country firmly on the global soccer map. For Beckham, whose journey from player to owner was built on belief and patience, the results now speak louder than any long-term projections ever could.

When the Englishman first announced plans to launch a franchise in Miami, skepticism was widespread. The club was formally established years later, entered the league without a permanent stadium, and spent its early seasons searching for identity. That changed irreversibly in the summer of 2023.

The Argentine’s arrival was more than a transfer — it was a cultural event. Stadiums filled overnight, global broadcasts followed, and Inter Miami games became appointment viewing worldwide. According to league data, average MLS attendance surged, streaming numbers doubled within weeks, and merchandise sales skyrocketed, led overwhelmingly by Messi’s No.10 shirt. What had once been seen as a retirement destination suddenly became a stage for elite soccer.

Historic success on the pitch

The transformation was not cosmetic. Messi delivered tangible success. Last year, he guided the Herons to the Supporters’ Shield with a record points total, setting new benchmarks for goal contributions. In 2025, the impact intensified. Across the regular season, Messi registered 29 goals and 19 assists, claiming the MLS Golden Boot and reinforcing his dominance with a second consecutive MVP award.

The postseason was even more emphatic. Messi produced 15 goal contributions in six playoff matches, a new MLS record, culminating in a 3-1 MLS Cup final victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps. Inter Miami lifted the first league title in its history, with the 38-year-old named MLS Cup MVP after delivering two assists in the final. This triumph marked the 48th major trophy of Messi’s career, extending his world record.

What did Beckham say about Messi?

Amid celebrations and reflections, Beckham was asked to describe the broader meaning of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s impact on American soccer: “Messi has changed everything since his arrival in America.” It’s safe to say his nine-word summary carried enormous weight: “Soccer is now the number one sport in popularity”, before adding, “It used to rank fifth or sixth.”

“Everyone is in awe of what he does. I remember when he attended a basketball game, and the entire crowd left their seats, chanting his name and welcoming him. The whole world will continue to respect him,” Beckham said.

Barcelona receive Osasuna in a Matchday 16 clash of the 2025–26 La Liga season, and here's your full guide with kickoff details plus how to catch the action live on TV and streaming platforms.

Match Overview

Barcelona head into the weekend with momentum on their side, building a four-point lead atop the table after a thrilling 5–3 win over Real Betis and Real Madrid’s stumble at Celta Vigo, a swing that has firmly put the Blaugrana in control while underscoring the need to stay sharp.

That intensity carries into a clash with Osasuna, who are coming off a 2–0 victory over Levante but remain uncomfortably close to the relegation fight, where every result matters. With pressure at both ends of the table, this matchup is one you won’t want to miss.

Flamengo will face Pyramids FC in the 2025 FIFA Challenger Cup, bringing another high-stakes international clash to the spotlight. Fans in the USA can catch every moment, with complete kickoff details and broadcast options listed for both television and streaming services.

Match Overview

Fresh off a landmark season, Flamengo enter their next spotlight moment with momentum clearly in its favor. The Rio de Janeiro powerhouse has already secured the Brasileirao and Copa Libertadores, then underscored its continental dominance by defeating Cruz Azul in the FIFA Derby of the Americas.

Now attention turns to the FIFA Challenge Cup, where Flamengo meets African champions Pyramids FC in a high-profile clash that pits South America’s benchmark against an ambitious contender—don’t miss what promises to be a can’t-miss matchup.

Chelsea will square off with Everton in a Matchday 16 clash of the 2025/2026 Premier League campaign. Below is all the essential info you’ll need, including kickoff details and where to catch the action on TV or streaming.

Match Overview

Matchday 16 kick off with a pressure-packed clash that could reshape the cups qualification picture, as Chelsea begin the weekend holding onto the last spot, but with no room to breathe. Sitting on 25 points thanks to a favorable goal differential, the Blues are being closely tracked by an in-form Brighton squad that trails by just two points and has momentum on its side.

For Chelsea, anything less than a win puts their standing at serious risk, while Brighton know three points would vault them past their opponent and dramatically alter the race. With the table this tight and both teams treating it like a must-win scenario, this matchup has high-intensity. Make sure you’re tuned in and don’t miss a minute of the action.

If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full DirecTV Stream soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.

From the moment Christian Pulisic arrived in Italy, there was a sense that Milan had found something special. Yet even with his early goals and flashes of brilliance, few could have predicted just how central the American would become under Massimiliano Allegri.

From the moment Christian Pulisic arrived in Italy, there was a sense that Milan had found something special. Yet even with his early goals and flashes of brilliance, few could have predicted just how central the American would become under Massimiliano Allegri in his third season at San Siro. With Allegri back on the bench and Milan reshaped around a new tactical identity, a different version of Pulisic has emerged—one that feels calmer, sharper, and devastatingly efficient. It is a transformation that has quietly redefined the Rossoneri’s attack and pushed the Rossoneri back into the title conversation.

Pulisic has always carried expectations, whether in Germany, England, or now in Italy. Since joining Milan in the summer of 2023, he has steadily grown into one of the club’s most reliable performers. This season, however, his impact has gone beyond aesthetics and work rate. The 27-year-old forward has become the club’s most decisive player, not just because of his goals, but because of when and how they arrive.

In Serie A alone, the American has already scored seven goals in just nine league appearances, adding nine goals in 12 matches across all competitions. That output places him level with the league’s elite scorers—remarkable for a player who is not a traditional striker. His goal-per-minute ratio of one every 64 minutes is among the best in Europe, trailing only Bayern’s Harry Kane among players with at least five league goals this season, according to Opta Paolo.

Statistics underline just how efficient he has become. Compared to last season, he is touching the ball less, attempting fewer dribbles and crosses, and recording fewer recoveries. On paper, it suggests reduced involvement. In reality, it reflects something else entirely: precision.

With just 14 total shots, 10 on target, Pulisic has converted seven league goals. His average match rating stands at 6.67, supported by 1.78 chances created per game and a steady contribution in possession. More importantly, he has delivered when the Red and Blacks needed him most—deciding matches against Napoli, Inter, and Torino during a crucial stretch of the season.

What changed under Allegri

Midway through the campaign, the reason for this leap has become clearer. Massimiliano Allegri’s tactical adjustments subtly altered Pulisic’s role without drastically changing his average positioning. While he is officially listed as one of the two forwards in Allegri’s 3-5-2, heat maps published by La Gazzetta dello Sport show that Pulisic often drifts left, operating in spaces where he feels most natural.

This freedom has proven decisive. In previous seasons, the USMNT star often hugged the right flank. Now, with Rafael Leao rarely starting alongside him, he has room to attack from the left, cut inside, and finish with confidence.

In fact, the report adds that the experienced Italian tactician has not asked Pulisic to do more—he has asked him to do less, but better. By reducing his defensive burden and giving him freedom of movement, Allegri has turned Pulisic into a pure match-winner, a player who conserves energy and strikes with ruthless timing. Perhaps the most telling aspect of his evolution is not found in heat maps or spreadsheets. It is found in moments.

He scored the winner against Napoli. He punished Inter. He carried Milan back from the brink against Torino, even while battling illness. As La Gazzetta dello Sport noted, this version of Pulisic separates excellent players from winners—those who deliver not just consistently, but decisively. Despite injuries and a demanding schedule, he remains Milan’s reference point in attack and, at times, its emotional leader on the pitch.

Tadeo Allende was, after Lionel Messi, the crucial piece for Inter Miami on their path to the Major League Soccer title. However, his future is now in doubt.

Lionel Messi was unquestionably the key player for Inter Miami during their 2025 Major League Soccer title run, earning the MVP award and finishing as both the league’s top scorer and top assist provider. But Tadeo Allende was not far behind, delivering decisive performances throughout the playoffs. Now, the Argentine forward’s future is uncertain.

Allende joined the Herons this year on a season-long loan from Celta Vigo. That deal expires on December 31, meaning he is scheduled to return to the Spanish side for the second half of the 2025–26 La Liga season. Whether that will actually happen remains unclear, and there are even rumors linking him to other clubs.

At the same time, Inter Miami clarified the contractual situation of every roster player through an official statement released on Thursday. “The Club is in ongoing negotiations with… Tadeo Allende (loan expired),” the statement explained, making clear the team’s intention to extend the forward’s stay in MLS.

Allende himself was asked about the matter this week in an interview shared by journalist Jose Armando on his X account. “I’m anxious,” Allende admitted. “I have the same information as you. Now I’m going on vacation to disconnect, so we’ll see what happens after that. The day-to-day well-being of my family is the priority.”

Allende’s intriguing response to River Plate rumors

In addition to Inter Miami’s desire to extend Tadeo Allende’s loan for next season, speculation has surfaced about the possibility of the forward returning to his home country to play for one of South America’s biggest clubs: River Plate.

Reports indicate that the Argentine team’s coach, Marcelo Gallardo, is interested in adding Allende to strengthen the attack for next season, and has reportedly given approval to move forward with negotiations with Celta Vigo.

In the same interview, Allende was asked whether playing for River is his dream. “I cannot answer that,” Tadeo replied, smiling. His evasive response to a direct question only fueled further speculation about what comes next.

Allende’s key contributions to Inter Miami

During the MLS regular season, Tadeo Allende played an important role for the team, scoring 11 goals and providing 2 assists in 31 matches. He added 4 more goals across 17 appearances in other competitions: the Concacaf Champions Cup, Leagues Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup.

However, when Inter Miami needed him the most, Allende delivered a breakout stretch that made him absolutely decisive. In the MLS playoffs, the Argentine forward stood out with 9 goals and 2 assists in 6 matches, leading the team through its championship run.

Those performances—including his goal in the victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the final—cemented Tadeo Allende’s status as an essential player for the Herons. That’s why extending his stay with the club for 2026 has become a crucial topic in recent days.

rid at a moment when uncertainty hangs over the club. Xabi Alonso is facing the most intense scrutiny of his young managerial career, and with pressure mounting from every angle, Madrid finds itself at a crossroads.

Kylian Mbappe’s name continues to dominate the conversation around Real Madrid at a moment when uncertainty hangs over the club. Xabi Alonso is facing the most intense scrutiny of his young managerial career, and with pressure mounting from every angle, Madrid finds itself at a crossroads. Mbappe’s absence, Alonso’s authority, and the club’s direction are now intertwined in a way few anticipated just weeks ago.

Real Madrid is entering one of those familiar yet dangerous phases where results, dressing-room harmony, and hierarchy patience collide. The Bernabeu has begun to show its teeth, and the timing could not be worse.

In fact, the warning signs have been flashing for weeks. Los Blancos have won just one of their last five La Liga matches, falling four points behind Barcelona and losing momentum at a decisive stage of the season. Sunday’s 2-0 home defeat to Celta Vigo was not just another poor result — it triggered boos, emergency meetings, and late-night crisis talks among the club’s hierarchy.

According to reports from Spain, including Marca and Diario AS, senior executives remained inside the Bernabeu for hours after the match, dissecting what went wrong and — more importantly — what comes next. That kind of meeting rarely ends without consequences.

Alonso arrived promising identity, intensity, and collective responsibility. Early results offered hope, including a statement El Clasico victory. But as performances dipped, doubts surfaced. Players struggled to fully execute his pressing ideas, and the connection between preparation and execution has visibly frayed.

Dressing-room tension and fading belief

One of the most concerning signs for any Real Madrid coach is the loss of unity. Reports describe a frustrated dressing room after the Celta Vigo defeat, with raised voices and visible anger. The Spaniard himself admitted post-match that plans prepared during the week were not carried out on the pitch, an echo of warnings once issued by Carlo Ancelotti.

There have been subtle but telling moments. Vinicius’ reaction to being substituted earlier in the season, Federico Valverde’s positional frustrations, and Jude Bellingham’s struggles adapting to new tactical demands have all contributed to a sense of imbalance.

The growing weight of injuries and how Mbappe could play huge role

As if tactical and psychological issues were not enough, Real Madrid is facing an injury crisis that could leave up to 12 players unavailable for the upcoming La Liga clash against Deportivo Alaves. Key defenders are sidelined, full-back options are virtually nonexistent, and rotation has become a necessity rather than a choice. And then there is the most significant absence of all. Xabi Alonso is in dire need of a win this weekend, but he will likely have to do without Kylian Mbappe.

The French star missed the UEFA Champions League defeat to Manchester City after experiencing knee discomfort and also dealing with a fractured finger. Though he returned to light training, sources cited by ESPN and Marcasuggest his availability remains in serious doubt.

Xabi Alonso did little to calm fears. “It’s too early to say if he’ll be available. He wasn’t fit to play today. When he’s not on the pitch, we miss him,” the coach admitted. Without the Frenchman, the club’s attacking struggles have been brutally exposed. Vinicius has gone 11 matches without a goal, Rodrygo’s drought stretches even further, and chances go unfinished.

Sunday’s match is no longer just about three points. According to Diario AS, another defeat could trigger Alonso’s dismissal, while even victories may only buy him time if performances do not improve immediately. The irony is impossible to ignore: The 44-year-old boss’ future may hinge on a player who might not even be fit to step onto the pitch.

Just months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Brazil national team has reportedly reached a firm decision regarding Carlo Ancelotti.

Brazil are navigating the months leading up to the start of the 2026 World Cup with the mission of strengthening the squad to arrive as one of the main contenders for the title. In that context, Carlo Ancelotti’s role has become hugely important—so much so that South American officials have reportedly made a significant decision.

According to Diario AS, Ancelotti “will soon sign a new agreement that will keep him in charge of the Brazilian national team until 2030… The understanding with the CBF is total and absolute. There has been no doubt whatsoever, neither regarding financial terms nor the length of the contract.”

This is massive news for Brazil, considering the impact the head coach has had in his short time in charge. He was hired in May of this year, after the tough 4–1 defeat against Argentina in March and at a time when qualification for the World Cup was in serious jeopardy.

Ancelotti’s arrival completely changed the outlook. Without making major tactical changes but establishing a clear foundation regarding which players should form the core of the team, he brought calm and gradually improved performances and results until securing a place in the 2026 FIFA tournament.

With the Italian coach at the helm, Brazil have played eight matches between qualifiers and friendlies. The balance is positive: four wins, two draws, and two losses, with 14 goals scored and five conceded. This equates to an effectiveness rate of 50%.

Ancelotti will remain the highest-paid national team coach in the world

Carlo Ancelotti’s status as an elite soccer coach naturally comes with a salary to match. “The contract of the former Real Madrid manager will keep him at the top of the economic ranking of national team coaches worldwide,” reported AS.

Indeed, Ancelotti is currently the highest-paid national team coach in the world, leading the list with an estimated salary of $11.15 million, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport. Far behind him are England’s Thomas Tuchel ($6.9 million) and Germany’s Julian Nagelsmann ($5.7 million).

Curiously, the managers of the two most dominant national teams today sit much lower on the pay scale. Argentina’s Lionel Scaloni ranks 10th with a salary of $2.7 million, while Spain’s Luis De La Fuente does not even crack the top ten with his $2.1 million.

What awaits Brazil at the 2026 World Cup?

Beyond Brazil’s intention to extend Carlo Ancelotti’s contract through 2030, the top priority right now is the 2026 World Cup. The coach has six months—and just one remaining FIFA break in March—to give the squad its final shape.

Brazil will face a difficult challenge in North America. The team will be part of Group C alongside Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti. The latter is clearly the weakest opponent in the group and should not pose a major threat to Ancelotti’s squad, but the other two nations present considerable challenges.

Arne Slot spoke publicly about Mohamed Salah and his situation at Liverpool, offering hints that the direction of the controversy may be shifting.

The controversy between Mohamed Salah and Arne Slot has captured the attention of millions of fans worldwide, all watching closely to see what happens next for one of soccer’s biggest stars. With uncertainty still surrounding the Liverpool winger’s future, the coach’s latest comments may point toward a different outcome than many expected.

“What I need is a conversation with him, and I think the next time I speak about Mo should be with him and not in here,” Slot said during Friday’s press conference—shared by Liverpool on their official website—ahead of Saturday’s Premier League match against Brighton & Hove Albion.

“I will have a conversation with Mo this morning, and the outcome of that conversation determines how it will look tomorrow,” the coach added. This line marked a significant update, considering Salah’s strong criticism following last week’s match against Leeds United seemed to signal a broken relationship between the two.

“I have no reasons not wanting him to stay,” Slot later said, offering another positive sign that helped cool speculation about a potential departure for the Egyptian winger, who remains under contract with Liverpool through the summer of 2027.

A positive outcome for Liverpool regarding Salah?

The conversation Arne Slot promised to have with the Liverpool star finally took place and, according to reports, produced a satisfying outcome for all sides. “Mohamed Salah is back and has been called up today for tomorrow’s Premier League match against Brighton,” reported Marca.

“The decision comes after the player and Arne Slot, the coach, spoke on Friday following the winger’s non-selection for Tuesday’s match against Inter Milan,” added the Spanish outlet. Indeed, after that harsh disciplinary measure, the passing days appear to have cooled tensions, and all signs now point to Salah at least taking a place on the bench for the upcoming match.

Liverpool will lose Salah regardless

Even though Salah’s return is excellent news for Liverpool, it won’t last long. Even if his relationship with Arne Slot fully recovers and the winger regains his undisputed spot in the lineup, the team will still be without him for an extended stretch.

This is because on Monday, Salah will leave England to join Egypt’s national team for preparations ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The continental tournament will be held in Morocco beginning December 21, forcing many clubs to release their African stars.

Egypt are part of Group B alongside South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe. Their debut is set for December 22, with the final group-stage match taking place one week later. The knockout stage begins on January 3, with the final scheduled for January 18. That means Liverpool will be without Salah for anywhere between two and seven matches.

As Inter Miami looks ahead after a historic season, one question has quietly dominated conversations behind the scenes: will the two icons continue their journey together — or is this where the story finally ends?

Few partnerships in modern soccer history have carried the emotional and sporting weight of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. From their peak years in Europe to their unexpected reunion in North America, the duo has continued to defy time and logic. Now, as Inter Miami looks ahead after a historic season, one question has quietly dominated conversations behind the scenes: will the two icons continue their journey together — or is this where the story finally ends?

For weeks, uncertainty has hovered over the club. Suarez’s contract has expired, speculation has swirled across two continents, and every public comment has seemed carefully measured. The answer, however, may already be taking shape — and if so, it could mean one more chapter for soccer’s most iconic partnership.

The veteran’s situation became one of the defining subplots of the offseason almost immediately after Inter Miami lifted the MLS Cup. The Uruguayan forward, now approaching his late thirties, was technically out of contract, leaving three realistic paths forward: retirement, a return to South America, or one final season in MLS.

Early reporting indicated that the club had already made its stance clear. According to the Herons’ official statement, a renewal offer was placed on the table, with the final decision resting solely with the player. That position was later publicly confirmed by co-owner Jorge Mas, who emphasized respect over pressure.

“Luis Suarez will decide in the coming days whether to retire in the manner he deserves or return for another year. We would welcome him back,” Mas told reporters. At no point did the club attempt to force a decision — a notable gesture toward a player whose legacy extends far beyond statistics.

What changed the narrative and the update Inter Miami had been waiting for

What truly fueled the debate, however, was not the contract situation alone, but how Suarez was used during the playoffs. After a suspension during the Nashville series, the striker found himself increasingly relegated to the bench as the postseason progressed. Under Javier Mascherano, Miami began producing some of its most fluid soccer of the season without Suarez in the starting XI.

When he played zero minutes in the MLS Cup Final, speculation reached its peak. A 19-year-old had started ahead of him. For many, it looked like a farewell. Thus, as soon as the season ended, reports from Uruguay suggested a romantic return was imminent. Stories claimed Nacional was preparing a meeting, that family logistics were already in motion, and that a homecoming was close. Then came a sharp reversal.

Within days, multiple outlets reported that Suarez had personally informed Nacional he would not return, thanking the club but declining any move back to Montevideo. The sudden shift left fans and analysts scrambling — and hinted that something else was happening quietly in Miami.

That clarity finally arrived. According to Uruguayan journalist Daniel Solana, the 38-year-old striker has accepted Inter Miami’s renewal proposal and will sign a new one-year contract, keeping him at the club through the end of 2026. The news, if true, effectively confirms that the Messi–Suarez partnership will continue for at least one more season, extending one of soccer’s most storied connections.

The modern soccer economy has entered an era where value is defined not just by goals or trophies, but by age curves, commercial pull, and future projection.

The modern soccer economy has entered an era where value is defined not just by goals or trophies, but by age curves, commercial pull, and future projection. As Erling Haaland continues to dominate in front of goal, Lamine Yamal redefines what a teenager can be worth, and Kylian Mbappe reaches new heights in Spain, the debate over soccer’s most valuable player has never been tighter. Meanwhile, Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham remain central figures in this evolving hierarchy — though their exact positions may surprise many.

A fresh update from Transfermarkt has once again reshaped the landscape, sending shockwaves across Europe’s elite clubs. What emerged was not just a ranking, but a snapshot of soccer’s future economy. In fact, Mbappe, Haaland, and Yamal are now jointly valued at €200 million ($235 million), making them the most valuable players in world soccer.

Mbappe’s rise is particularly striking. The Real Madrid forward received a €20 million ($24m) increase, returning him to a valuation he had not touched since 2019. Transfermarkt’s Spain market value coordinator, Tobias Blaseio, explained: “The Frenchman has played himself back into the absolute world elite. This year, he improved every month and shows much more security in his actions.”

Meanwhile, on the other side of El Clasico, Yamal’s valuation is historic — no 18-year-old has ever been priced at this level. Haaland, meanwhile, maintains his position through relentless consistency as the game’s most reliable goal machine. The Spaniard’s valuation represents a structural shift in how clubs view talent. This is no longer about present production alone — it is about scarcity, longevity, and global appeal.

At just 18, the Barcelona winger combines elite output, positional versatility, and massive commercial upside. In modern soccer economics, that combination is priceless. Teenage potential has officially reached parity with proven superstardom.

Where Vinicius and Jude Bellingham stand

Behind the $235 million trio, the next layer of elite value belongs firmly to Real Madrid. Jude Bellingham is valued at €160 million ($188 million), following a €20 million ($24m) drop, while Vinicius Junior stands at €150 million ($176 million). Blaseio addressed the 22-year-old midfielder’s decline candidly: “He set the bar extremely high when he joined. Weaker phases are normal, but in his case, the drop in form lasted longer, which made an adjustment unavoidable.”

Despite the downgrade, the Englishman remains one of the most valuable midfielders in the sport, reflecting how goal-scoring, leadership midfielders now rival forwards in economic worth. Vinicius’ valuation, by contrast, reflects elite consistency rather than hype, cementing his status as one of soccer’s most devastating wide attackers.

Players like Musiala (€140m/$164m), Pedri (€140m/$164m), Saka (€130m/$153m), and Olise (€130m/$153m) point to another trend: technical, press-resistant creators are now premium assets. These players define tempo, unlock low blocks, and thrive in possession-heavy systems—exactly what elite clubs demand in Europe’s biggest competitions. Notably, most of them are between 22 and 24 years old, reinforcing the idea that peak market value now arrives before a player’s traditional prime years.

What this ranking really tells us

The most revealing detail is age. Only one player in the global top ten is older than 26, and the majority are 25 or younger. Soccer’s market has fully shifted toward longevity, resale potential, and brand lifespan. €100 million ($117m) is no longer exceptional; it is the baseline for elite talent. The latest list is not just a valuation table. It is a forecast of soccer’s economic future, where teenagers can equal Ballon d’Or contenders and midfielders rival strikers in value.

Inter Miami have reportedly reached an agreement to sign an Argentine defender to join Lionel Messi.

Inter Miami are in the midst of rebuilding their roster following the conclusion of the 2025 season, which ended with the club winning the Major League Soccer title. With the goal of surrounding Lionel Messi with players who complement him, the club has reportedly agreed to sign an Argentine defender.

“Facundo Mura and Inter Miami have reached a verbal agreement,” reported journalist German Garcia Grova on Friday via his X account. Mura is a 26-year-old right-back—although he has occasionally played on the left—who has spent his entire career in Argentina’s domestic league.

A product of Estudiantes, where he debuted at 19 in 2019, Mura had a brief stint at Colon before joining Racing Club in 2022. At Racing, the defender enjoyed his best performances, becoming a key player with 12 goals, 15 assists, and two titles in 147 matches.

“He will join the team as a free agent,” Garcia Grova added regarding the terms of the agreement between Mura and Inter Miami. “Once his time at Racing concludes, they will finalize the deal for a three-year contract.”

Inter Miami shape their new squad

The arrival of Facundo Mura addresses one of the first challenges facing coach Javier Mascherano ahead of the 2026 season. This past year, Ian Fray and Jordi Alba were the team’s primary full-backs, with Marcelo Weigandt serving as the first alternative.

Of those three, only Fray will continue next season, as Alba retired from professional soccer and Weigandt is set to return to Boca Juniors after his loan ends. Mura will compete with Fray for the right-back position while also providing an option on the left if needed.

Another Argentine teammate for Lionel Messi

Since the Herons secured Lionel Messi’s arrival in the summer of 2023, the club has made deliberate efforts to surround its star with familiar faces both on and off the field. That included signing former Barcelona teammates and friends of Messi such as Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suarez.

But that’s not all. Inter Miami have focused on signing Spanish-speaking players, particularly Argentines, to create an environment conducive to Messi in terms of language and culture.

From the squad that won the 2025 MLS title, ten players—besides Messi—are Argentine or have Argentine roots: Oscar Ustari, Rocco Rios Novo, Marcelo Weigandt, Tomas Aviles, Gonzalo Lujan, Rodrigo De Paul, Santiago Morales, Tadeo Allende, Baltasar Rodriguez, and Mateo Silvetti. Some, like Weigandt, will not continue in 2026, but Mura is the first of the new arrivals to share that Argentine connection.

Karim Benzema offered his assessment of Real Madrid’s current struggles, particularly regarding stars like Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham.

Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham are three of the best players in the world right now. Yet, despite having them in the squad, Real Madrid have struggled this season to deliver consistent performances and results. Karim Benzema weighed in on the issue.

“What they lack is simply a connection—between Mbappe, Vinicius, Bellingham, and Rodrygo. Each one needs to know what to do on the field,” Benzema said in a recent interview with L’Equipe. “As long as everyone knows what to do on the field, that’s it. Because we’re talking about players who are among the top ten in the world, and they’re all on the same team.”

The five-time UEFA Champions League winner immediately suggested that this connection is not happening at Real Madrid right now. “Bellingham needs to understand that he is the attacking midfielder, not the goalscorer. Mbappe is the goalscorer, not the attacking midfielder. Vinicius is not a defensive midfielder, he is a left winger,” Karim explained.

Benzema’s comments highlight how, despite the undeniable individual quality of the roster, the Spanish side has yet to click as a reliable and cohesive team, with clearly defined roles and complementary skill sets.

This is reflected in the results, with just two wins in the last eight matches across La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, as the standings show. In Spain’s top flight, Los Blancos have lost first place and are now second, four points behind Barcelona. In Europe, only goal difference keeps them inside the automatic qualification zone for the Round of 16.

Benzema discusses Xabi Alonso’s responsibility

In the same interview, Karim Benzema commented on the role of head coach Xabi Alonso during this challenging period. “The coach can’t do anything,” the Real Madrid legend said. “He has the names; it’s about choosing the player who plays best. After that, it’s up to the players.”

The Al Ittihad striker added that the stars must set aside their egos to strengthen the team. “If your teammate is better than you, you have to accept it. The problem is not accepting that the one in front of you scores more goals,” Benzema said. “That’s why you have issues when you have five or six top players together. Everyone contributes something.”

Benzema on Kylian Mbappe

Criticism of the coach and some Real Madrid stars such as Vinicius has not extended to Kylian Mbappe. The 26-year-old forward has been the team’s undeniable star at the start of the season, and his performances arguably make him the most decisive player in the world right now.

“He scores a lot of goals and will continue to do so,” Benzema said about his former France teammate. “But the most important thing for Mbappe is that Real Madrid signed him to win matches in key moments. And he’s capable of doing that… He’s the one who has to lead Real Madrid to titles. But not alone—he has to do it with the others. That’s why I spoke about the connection.”

Lionel Messi continues to redefine excellence, Son Heung-Min remains a commercial and sporting force, and Thomas Muller has authored yet another unexpected chapter late in his career. Yet as MLS closes the book on its most star-studded season to date, the numbers behind the legends tell a more sobering story.

For the first time in years, familiar assumptions no longer apply. Lionel Messi continues to redefine excellence, Son Heung-Min remains a commercial and sporting force, and Thomas Muller has authored yet another unexpected chapter late in his career. Yet as Major League Soccer closes the book on its most star-studded season to date, the numbers behind the legends tell a more sobering story.

The latest market value update has sent ripples across the league. One icon has reached the lowest valuation of his professional life, another has slipped to a level not seen in a decade, and a third—despite silverware and leadership—has not been immune to time. The question is not whether their impact has faded, but how value is now being measured in a league reshaped by age, visibility, and legacy.

Lionel Messi’s 2025 season with the club was, by any soccer metric, extraordinary. He led the club to its first-ever MLS Cup, claimed the Golden Boot, and became the first player in league history to win consecutive MVP awards. Across all competitions, Messi produced 74 goal contributions in 49 appearances, numbers that would inflate almost any valuation model. And yet, the latest assessment delivered a historic moment.

According to Transfermarkt, Messi’s market value now stands at €15 million ($16.3m)—the lowest valuation of his entire professional career, down from €18m ($19.6m) in the previous update. Dominic Becker, Transfermarkt’s North America data administrator, explained the reasoning clearly: “Messi once again played a fantastic season. He remains the focal point of Miami’s game and was crucial in winning the club’s first MLS Cup. But he is also getting older, and despite the downgrade, he remains the most valuable player in his age category.”

The context is essential. At his peak in 2018, Messi’s value reached €180m ($196m). Today’s number reflects not performance decline, but age-based market logic. At 38, Messi is evaluated not as a resale asset, but as a soccer institution. Importantly, the Argentine has never generated a transfer fee in his career, moving from Barcelona to Paris and then to MLS as a free agent. His economic value has never been transactional—it has been transformational.

Son Heung-Min: Decade-low valuation, undiminished Influence

Son Heung-Min’s arrival in MLS with LAFC instantly altered the league’s commercial and cultural footprint. On the pitch, he delivered 12 goals and four assists in his debut campaign. Off it, he shattered jersey-sales records and expanded the league’s reach across Asia and the global market. Despite this, Son’s valuation followed a similar trajectory to Messi’s.

Transfermarkt reduced Son’s market value from €20m ($21.8m) to €17m ($18.5m)—his lowest valuation since June 2015, when he was still playing in Germany. Becker acknowledged the inevitability of the decision: “Son Heung-Min is 33 years old. A decline in market value due to age is inevitable. That said, he adapted instantly and formed one of the most dangerous attacking duos in the league.”

Crucially, Son remains the second-most valuable player in MLS, underscoring how age-adjusted downgrades do not equate to reduced relevance. His influence spans performance, leadership, and global branding—elements that traditional valuation models struggle to quantify. This update marks a symbolic moment rather than a decline. The 33-year-old’s career has entered a phase where legacy outweighs liquidity.

Thomas Muller: Leadership, silverware, and a gentle adjustment

Thomas Muller’s MLS journey has been brief but significant. He played a central role in leading his club to a first-ever MLS Cup final, added another trophy to his already historic résumé, and became the most decorated German player of all time. Even so, market logic prevailed. The Vancouver Whitecaps star’s value dipped slightly from €6m ($6.5m) to €5m ($5.4m)—a modest adjustment that reflects age rather than influence.

Muller’s impact could be felt from the first day, Becker noted. “His football ability and character lifted the team on and off the field. Despite the downgrade, he remains one of the most valuable players in his age category.” At 36, Muller’s role is not defined by resale potential, but by tactical intelligence, leadership, and winning culture—qualities that MLS clubs increasingly value as the league matures.

As Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal map their route through the tournament and James Rodriguez’s Colombia braces for a crucial test, a hidden complication threatens to shift the balance well before a ball is kicked.

The countdown to the 2026 World Cup is already reshaping narratives across international soccer, and the latest developments offer contrasting emotions for two familiar figures. Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing for what could be the final defining chapter of his international career, while uncertainty surrounds a long-time rival from South America. As Portugal maps its route through the tournament and James Rodriguez’s Colombia braces for a crucial test, a hidden complication threatens to shift the balance well before a ball is kicked.

With the draw completed and paths clarified, the tournament is beginning to feel real. Yet beneath the excitement, one unresolved issue could quietly influence Group K — and Portugal may be the indirect beneficiary.

The European giant emerged from the World Cup draw in Washington, D.C. with cautious optimism. Placed as the top seed in Group K, the European side will face Uzbekistan, the winner of FIFA Playoff 1, and Colombia, in what promises to be a group defined by contrasting styles rather than straightforward dominance.

For Ronaldo, who will be 41 years old when the tournament begins, this competition represents a final opportunity to lift the one trophy missing from his glittering resume. Portugal’s opening matches against less familiar opponents offer the chance to build momentum, but the decisive test is expected to arrive late in the group stage. That showdown will come against Colombia in Miami — a fixture already being described as one of the most compelling group-stage clashes of the tournament.

On paper, the Tricolor arrives with confidence. Ranked among the top 15 national teams globally, they reached the 2024 Copa America final and ended 2025 on an impressive unbeaten run. Their blend of intensity, technical quality, and transitional speed makes them a genuine threat to any opponent. However, beneath that momentum lies an issue that could undermine their stability at the worst possible time. And this is where the narrative shifts.

The hidden blow: James Rodriguez’s uncertain future

Midway through the buildup, the real concern becomes unavoidable. James Rodriguez, Colombia’s most iconic figure of the past decade, is facing a deeply unsettling situation. With six months remaining before the World Cup, James is currently without a club, as confirmed by Marca.

According to reports from Mexico and Spain, the midfielder recently ended his stint with Club Leon, and a potential move to Pumas UNAM collapsed despite early discussions. Journalist John Sutcliffe confirmed on X (formerly Twitter): “James Rodriguez is not coming to Pumas. There were conversations, but the project and the profile they want is different.”

For Los Cafeteros, the issue is not symbolic — it is practical. Match rhythm, fitness, and competitive sharpness are non-negotiable at the World Cup level, especially for a player who still carries creative responsibility when games tighten. Without weekly action, the 34-year-old’s influence risks diminishing just as Colombia prepares for its toughest test in years.

Why does this quietly benefit Portugal?

For Portugal, this development changes the psychological landscape of Group K. Colombia’s strength has long rested on balance: youthful intensity supported by experience. If James arrives under-prepared, that equilibrium could tilt in Portugal’s favor — especially in a match likely to decide the group winner.

Portugal, by contrast, enters the tournament with stability. Ronaldo remains surrounded by a deep supporting cast, and manager Roberto Martinez has emphasized continuity and control. In a group where fine margins will matter, readiness could be decisive.

Ticket prices for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, particularly for the final, have sparked negative reactions and sharp public criticism.

With less than six months to go before the 2026 World Cup—the first edition to be hosted simultaneously by three countries—anticipation continues to build. But alongside the excitement, criticism is mounting regarding several FIFA decisions, particularly the organization’s approach to ticket pricing.

According to BBC Sport, seats for the 2026 World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19 will cost up to seven times more than tickets for the Argentina vs. France final at Qatar 2022.

The championship match will feature three ticket categories. The ‘Supporter value tier’ will be the most affordable, starting at $4,185. A step above sits the ‘Supporter standard tier,’ priced at $5,560. And the most expensive option, the ‘Supporter premium tier,’ will carry a staggering price of $8,860.

The contrast with Qatar 2022 is striking. Tickets for that final were available for far lower amounts, starting around $600. BBC Sport also reports that the upcoming edition will not offer separate pricing for children or other specific groups.

2026 World Cup ticket prices will vary depending on the national team

Another new feature of this World Cup is that ticket prices will fluctuate depending on the teams involved in each match. In other words, games at the same stage of the tournament may carry very different price tags if one of the national teams is deemed especially attractive.

Criticism of FIFA over 2026 World Cup ticket prices

The reported prices for the 2026 World Cup final will likely make attending the tournament’s decisive match an experience accessible only to a wealthy minority. That reality has triggered widespread criticism, particularly among fans.

“In the price tables gradually and confidentially released by FIFA, tickets allocated to national associations… are reaching astronomical levels,” Football Supporters Europe began in an official statement. The organization is a fan association recognized by institutions including UEFA and the Council of Europe.

“Adding insult to injury, the lowest price category will not be available to the most dedicated supporters through their National Associations, as FIFA chose to reserve the scarce number of category 4 tickets to the general sales, subject to dynamic ticket pricing,” the statement added. “This is a monumental betrayal of the tradition of the World Cup, ignoring the contribution of supporters to the spectacle it is.”

The Football Supporters’ Association also spoke out on the issue. “We back Football Supporters Europe in calling for a halt in ticket sales and we are calling on the Football Association to work with fellow FAs to directly challenge these disgraceful prices,” they said in a statement.

“We call on all national associations to stand up for your supporters, without whom there would be no professional game,” the FSA added. With growing backlash over FIFA’s ticket pricing decisions, it remains to be seen whether the organization will reconsider and respond to fans’ demands.

As one of the most interesting games of the group stage, an Uruguay player has issued a strong warning to Lamine Yamal ahead of their clash with Spain in the 2026 World Cup.

Lamine Yamal will make his World Cup debut in 2026 at just 18 years old, already established as Spain’s biggest rising star. But the FC Barcelona winger is not expecting a warm welcome, as an Uruguay international has issued a strong warning ahead of their high-stakes group-stage showdown.

As a Pot 1 nation, Spain landed in Group H and will face Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay, this last one widely viewed as their toughest opponent. Uruguayan right back Guillermo Varela is aiming to spoil Spain’s plans and push La Celeste to the top of the group.

Speaking to La Mañana del Fútbol on El Espectador, Varela broke down the group stage: “This is a different Saudi Arabia than the one from the 2018 World Cup—it’s more prepared than before, although that match was difficult for us. Spain is a powerhouse and a contender to win the World Cup. But if we make the adjustments we need to make in Uruguay, I don’t think we’d have trouble advancing.“

Beyond his confidence in Uruguay’s path, Varela added some heat to the upcoming duel with Lamine Yamal, issuing a playful but pointed warning. “It’s going to be fun. He knows that we Uruguayans like to play tough, so he’s going to have to be ready—he’ll have to put his foot in too,” he said with a laugh.

Spain and Uruguay will meet on Matchday 3 on June 26 at Akron Stadium in Mexico, in what could be a decisive battle for the top spot in Group H. With the runner-up likely to face Argentina in the Round of 32, the stakes for both La Roja and La Celeste couldn’t be higher.

Spain and Uruguay already met in World Cups

As a two-time World Cup champion and one of the sport’s historic powers, Uruguay enters the tournament with pedigree, and Spain, one of the most consistent forces of the 21st century, completes what should be one of the group stage’s marquee matchups. Fans will be watching closely to see which nation earns its first World Cup win in the fixture.

Uruguay and Spain have met twice in World Cups, with the first game happening in Brazil 1950 during the second group phase, ending in a 2-2 draw. The second came 40 years later at Italia ’90, a scoreless draw in the opening round. Nearly another four decades later, both sides will be looking to finally break the deadlock in 2026.

After Lionel Messi's comments on the clash, Argentina star Emiliano Dibu Martinez set the record straight on playing the Finalissima against Spain a few months before the beginning of the 2026 World Cup.

Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez has become one of Argentina’s key leaders alongside Lionel Messi and will be a cornerstone of the squad heading into the 2026 World Cup. With the Finalissima looming, the Argentine goalkeeper has now set the record straight on facing Spain just months before the tournament begins.

The Finalissima has sparked debate and criticism, with many arguing that players from both national teams shouldn’t be forced to compete for a trophy so close to the World Cup. Martínez doesn’t see it that way. For him, a matchup against Lamine Yamal’s Spain represents a major opportunity, despite the proximity to the global competition.

Speaking with Argentine outlet DSports, Martínez set a strong tone for the showdown: “I’d love to play it. First, because Spain is one of the teams to beat at the World Cup and one of the best national teams in the world. And it would be a great test for us two months before the World Cup — good preparation for what’s ahead. Beating Italy gave us a huge boost going into Qatar, and we hope it will be the same with Spain.”

He also addressed concerns about playing such a high-profile match so close to the World Cup. “I understand the argument that we’re close to the World Cup and coaches don’t want to play it because opponents can analyze you. But we like to play, compete, and win titles, so hopefully it happens,” he added.

Lionel Messi recently cast doubt on the match, easing expectations by saying, “It’s not even confirmed if it will be played.” But unlike the captain, Martínez views the Finalissima as a valuable test and a chance for the Albiceleste to measure themselves against FIFA’s top-ranked national team.

While an official announcement has yet to be made, the Finalissima is expected to take place on Friday, March 27 at Lusail Stadium in Doha, the same venue where Argentina lifted the 2022 World Cup. The Albiceleste would be looking to earn back-to-back Finalissima wins following their victory over Italy.

Martínez and his focus on the 2026 World Cup

Dibu Martínez has cemented himself as a legendary figure in Argentine soccer, delivering unforgettable saves that helped Messi’s Argentina win the 2022 World Cup. Still, the Aston Villa star admitted he had “technical errors in the matches” during the tournament after conceding eight goals.

Looking ahead to 2026, Martínez expressed full confidence: “I’m going to feel better in this one — I’ll be better. Physically I feel perfect.” The goalkeeper also highlighted his desire on the group stage draw. “I wanted a group you can get through, where you can compete and there are no surprises. We lost to Saudi Arabia, who were supposed to be the easiest,” he added.

Drawn into a group with Algeria, Austria, and Jordan, Argentina enters as the clear favorite to win Group J, but Martínez prefers caution. “Today you don’t know who the easiest is. Luckily, we already have the experience of losing the first match and being 20 minutes away from elimination against Mexico. That experience helps for the next one,” he concluded.

Cristiano Ronaldo will have to wait a little longer to return to make his official return to the pitch with Al Nassr as the Saudi Pro League has taken the decision to postpone its restart.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s 2025-26 campaign had already been interrupted by the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup, which kicked off in early December and will conclude before the holidays. Now, the Portuguese star will have to wait even longer to play an official match for Al Nassr, as the Saudi Pro League has announced a sudden postponement of its restart.

With Saudi Arabia competing in the tournament, several SPL players have been called up, prompting the league to pause during the competition to avoid issues related to player availability. However, the league has now made a decision that will force fans to wait a bit longer before seeing Ronaldo back in competitive action.

On Wednesday, the Saudi Pro League confirmed the postponement of all Matchday 10 fixtures of the 2025-26 season. Originally scheduled for December 19–21, the matches have now been rescheduled for February 22–25.

In its announcement, the SPL noted that clubs had previously been informed “of the possibility of postponement should the Saudi national team qualify for the semifinals of the Arab Cup.” Following Saudi Arabia’s 2–1 win over Palestine in Wednesday’s quarterfinals, the national team reached the semifinal round, triggering the official postponement.

“The League reaffirms its commitment to aligning the league schedule with the national team’s participation, as well as ensuring the best competitive conditions for the clubs,” part of the SPL statement read. With Matchday 10 against Al Najma pushed back, Ronaldo’s official return is now on hold.

When will Ronaldo return to play for Al Nassr?

During this unusual mid-season pause, Cristiano Ronaldo has stayed active by appearing in friendlies to maintain his fitness. On Wednesday the 10th, he returned to the pitch with a goal in Al Nassr’s 4-2 win over Al Wahda, but his official comeback will have to wait.

Al Nassr’s next official match is scheduled for December 24 against Al Zawraa in the AFC Champions League Two. However, since Ronaldo has not featured in that competition this season, he is more likely to return on December 27, when Al Nassr host Al Okhdood in Matchday 11 of the SPL. Currently sitting atop the table with a perfect 27 points from 27, Ronaldo and his teammates will be eager to extend their dominant run.

With nearly two weeks between the latest friendly and their upcoming competitive fixture, Al Nassr will need to maintain their rhythm during this extended break. In fact, Jorge Jesus is reportedly seeking another friendly next week to complete the team’s preparations, with Ronaldo potentially featuring again as he did in the previous match.

Tigres UANL face Toluca in the first leg of the Liga MX Apertura 2025 final. Below is a complete viewing guide with kickoff details, along with full TV and streaming information for fans in the United States.

Match Overview

Toluca and Tigres UANL open a marquee championship series with both teams carrying momentum from impressive playoff runs. Toluca, the regular-season standard-bearer, aims to push closer to a second trophy of 2025 after edging past Monterrey.

Meanwhile, Tigres UANL arrive confident after eliminating major contenders like Cruz Azul in an exciting semifinal. With the series likely hinging on early momentum, this first matchup is must-see action that fans won’t want to miss.

Inter Miami will pay a fortune to secure Rodrigo De Paul permanently following their Major League Soccer title.

Celebrations over the Major League Soccer title haven’t stopped Inter Miami from focusing on planning for next season. One key area is roster building, with Rodrigo De Paul as one of the main figures.

The Argentine midfielder joined the team in mid-2025 on a loan deal from Atletico Madrid until the end of the season, with an option to make the move permanent. This Thursday, the Herons announced via a statement on their official website that they will exercise that contractual option.

That means Inter Miami will pay Atletico Madrid the necessary fee to keep De Paul permanently, in what will become one of the most expensive transfers in MLS history. “Inter Miami announce their roster decisions, including picking up Rodrigo De Paul’s purchase option. Fee around $17m,” reported Tom Bogert via his X account.

The massive financial effort by the club is justified by De Paul’s impact on the field. Since arriving in Miami in July, he has played in 23 matches across the MLS regular season, playoffs, and Leagues Cup, registering 2 goals and 7 assists.

De Paul will be a Designated Player

By deciding to purchase Rodrigo De Paul, Inter Miami not only secure one of their most important players but will also elevate the midfielder’s status. “De Paul will be a DP,” Tom Bogert reported.

The season’s end allows the Herons to reconfigure their roster. With Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets retired and uncertainty surrounding Luis Suarez’s future, Lionel Messi will need new teammates to help lead the team.

De Paul will clearly be one of those players, now solidified as a long-term member of the club and occupying one of the Designated Player slots alongside Leo. “Miami still has one DP spot open,” added Bogert. That could be reserved for Suarez if he agrees to stay or for another superstar signing during the transfer window.

De Paul makes MLS history

Once the purchase option with Atletico Madrid is finalized, Rodrigo De Paul will leave a lasting mark on American soccer: the Inter Miami midfielder will become the second-most expensive signing in Major League Soccer history.

At around $17 million, De Paul surpasses Kevin Denkey, who joined FC Cincinnati from Cercle Brugge in 2024 for $16.2 million. Behind them are Thiago Almada ($15.8 million), Gonzalo Martinez ($15.8 million), and Esequiel Barco ($13.4 million).

However, De Paul will remain short of the top spot. The most expensive MLS signing remains Emmanuel Latte Lath, who joined Atlanta United from Middlesbrough this year for the staggering sum of $22 million.

Karim Benzema has firmly established himself as one of Real Madrid's most pivotal players, even clinching a Ballon d'Or. Despite spending years away from the French national team, he recently gave a surprising response regarding a possible return to play in the 2026 World Cup.

Karim Benzema has built a legacy as one of the most important players in Real Madrid’s history. As a key part of that attacking trio with Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo, the Frenchman became the second highest scorer in the team’s history, winning a Ballon d’Or to leave a legendary legacy. However, he has been absent from the national team for three years, but gave a bold response when asked about a possible return to play in the 2026 World Cup.

“Who wouldn’t want to play in a World Cup? Everyone wants to be part of that tournament… So if you tell me I could go with France to play a World Cup and I say no, I’d be lying…When I get called, I show up and I play. I have my own goals in mind. I love the game and I love winning. I love trophies — that’s what matters most to me. Right now, I’m focused on my club. If the national team calls me up, I’ll go and play. For me, it’s as simple as that,” Karim Benzema said, via L’Equipe.

After having several off-the-field problems with Mathieu Valbuena, Karim was removed from France for six years, missing the victory in the 2018 World Cup. During this time, coach Didier Deschamps limited himself to saying: “I make decisions based on what I consider to be for the good of the national team,” he said, as reported by ESPN. However, Benzema returned to the call-ups in June 2021, but he did not last long.

In his short return, Benzema managed to play 17 matches and then decided to announce his retirement from the national team in 2022 after being left out of the 2022 World Cup due to a muscle tear. By staying in top shape with Al Ittihad, the veteran keeps alive the possibility of returning to play in the 2026 edition, but he remains absent from Didier Deschamps’ call-ups, while Kylian Mbappé and Marcus Thuram’s emergence makes his return difficult.

Benzema managed to leave a solid legacy in France

Karim Benzema did not manage to leave a legacy as historic in France as the one he left at Real Madrid, but he did manage to leave a solid legacy. After playing 97 matches, he managed to score 37 goals, which makes him the sixth-highest scorer in the history of the national team. In addition, he managed to be his team’s top scorer in the 2014 World Cup, scoring 3 goals and providing two assists in five matches.

While Olivier Giroud holds the title of France’s all-time top scorer with 57 goals in 137 matches, questions linger about whether Karim Benzema might have claimed that spot had he played the same number of matches. The current Al Ittihad star appeared in 40 fewer games and was absent during the peak years of his career—a period when he won the Ballon d’Or and dominated as a prolific scorer at Real Madrid.

Santiago Giménez’s future at AC Milan remains unresolved, and as an alternative attacking option, a former Former Inter star has been reportedly offered to the Rossoneri.

Santiago Giménez has become one of AC Milan’s biggest question marks during the 2025–26 season, as the Mexican striker has struggled to find his best form and secure a consistent place in the starting lineup. Amid rumors of a possible exit, new reports suggest that a former Inter star could now be making his way to the red-and-black side of the city.

With head coach Massimiliano Allegri still searching for Milan’s best version, Giménez has been one of the players unable to cement his spot in the XI. With only one goal and two assists in 11 matches so far, and currently sidelined as he recovers from an ankle injury, his future has become increasingly uncertain, and the Rossoneri may already have a potential replacement in mind.

According to transfer expert Matteo Moretto, Mauro Icardi has been offered to AC Milan as a possible solution should Giménez depart. The Argentine striker, now back from an ACL injury, has struggled to regain his starting role at Galatasaray, and with his contract set to expire at the end of the 2025–26 season, Icardi’s name is resurfacing after also being linked with a move during the 2024 summer window.

Icardi ranks eighth on Inter Milan’s all-time scoring list with 124 goals, but despite serving as Galatasaray’s captain, he has recently lost his place to an in-form Victor Osimhen. Milan have emerged as a potential next destination, though Moretto notes that the move remains complicated, as Icardi is not among the club’s top striker targets, and any deal would first require determining Giménez’s future.

With Giménez yet to convince the club with his performances, Milan are indeed exploring options for the attack, though the Mexican’s situation must be resolved first. His last appearance came on October 28 against Atalanta, and the striker’s preference is reportedly to stay and fight for his spot through the end of the season rather than leave in January before making a final decision.

Icardi and a heated situation in Türkiye

After a frustrating spell at Paris Saint-Germain, Icardi rediscovered his form at Galatasaray, where he has become not only the captain but also a fan favorite. However, with his contract set to expire at the end of the current season, local speculation about his future has sparked tension, something the striker did not take lightly.

In an Instagram story titled “FAKE NEWS,” Icardi addressed the rumors head-on: “I understand that my name sells and that some Turkish ‘journalists’ want to claim that the club called me to inform me about my ‘non-renewal’… but not only did no one call me, they didn’t call my agent either. Do they want to push a story that is NOT a story—considering my contract ends in June 2026—to cover up yesterday’s defeat? I won’t allow them to use my image for that.“

The striker ended his message with a statement that added even more intrigue to his future at the club. “Rest assured, when my contract ends, I’ll leave with my head held high. And in the hypothetical case that I leave earlier, it would be solely and 100% my decision—no one else’s. Sending a kiss. You’ll have Icardi for a few more months. Enjoy it, because afterward you’re going to miss me,” he wrote.

Mohamed Salah is in conflict with Liverpool, and in that context, a Major League Soccer club has reportedly shown interest in signing him.

The soccer world has been closely watching Mohamed Salah’s situation for weeks. The Egyptian winger has been sidelined in recent matches by Liverpool coach Arne Slot, leaving his future at the club uncertain. In that context, a Major League Soccer club appears to be eyeing him.

“Connections between Salah and San Diego’s ownership,” reported MLS insider Tom Bogert on Thursday via his official X account. However, the reporter quickly clarified the current status of those talks: “Highly unlikely for now.”

Salah’s caliber as one of the best wingers in the world for years makes him a tempting target for any club. Reports have linked him to teams in the Saudi Pro League in what would be a blockbuster transfer almost on par with Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr.

Far from that financial power and the competitive level of European soccer, MLS clubs appear to be at a disadvantage in that race, as Bogert confirmed: “It is not a main focus nor realistic for San Diego FC to attempt to sign Mohamed Salah from Liverpool in January.”

MLS commissioner discusses a move for Salah

Even though the supposed talks between Mohamed Salah and San Diego FC’s ownership haven’t led, at least for now, to a real transfer possibility, the MLS aims to position itself as a serious option for players of his caliber.

MLS commissioner Don Garber spoke on the matter this week. “I’ve seen some rumors about Mo Salah,” he said during a press conference. “Obviously, if he ever decides he wants to come to Major League Soccer, we welcome him with open arms.”

Garber also explained how recent arrivals of stars like Lionel Messi can influence other elite players considering a move to MLS. “I would say that he should reach out to Leo and reach out to Thomas Muller, and see how happy they’ve been and how successful they’ve been, and how much they’ve really embraced being in Major League Soccer,” the commissioner said.

What’s next for Salah?

After eight seasons as a key player for Liverpool, Mohamed Salah is facing an unprecedented situation this year. Coach Arne Slot decided to bench him in the last three Premier League matches, which led to controversial statements from the winger after last week’s game against Leeds United.

This also resulted in Salah being completely left out of the squad for Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League match against Inter Milan, further fueling speculation about his future. In this context, Salah will now join the Egypt national team for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, meaning he will be absent from Liverpool for up to a month. Time will likely cool tensions, and perhaps by the time he returns to England, the situation will be clearer.

Throughout the last decade, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have starred in a tense rivalry over the GOAT debate. However, Juventus legend Claudio Marchisio dared to explain the clear difference between both legends, prompting a candid debate.

Cristiano Ronaldo has managed to star in a tense battle for a little more than 10 years with Lionel Messi to be the best player in the world. Although both are already over 37 years old, they continue to be the subject of debates with the 2026 World Cup approaching. In light of this conversation, Juventus legend Claudio Marchisio decided to detail the reason that makes the Portuguese superior to the Argentine star, sparking a tense debate.

In a recent interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Claudio Marchisio revealed the detail that makes him prefer the Portuguese player over the Argentine: “Follow Cristiano Ronaldo’s example. If you have to find something in a player to become great champions, follow an example like his and not like Messi‘s. Why? He was already a star, but he had to build himself even more. He worked very hard to get where he is, the other [Messi] was a talent blessed by the Lord.”

Unlike Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo has always been linked to being a completely disciplined figure, even being called ‘obsessive’ by several former players. In addition, he managed to demonstrate imposing resilience, since injuries, far from making him retire, made him transform from an explosive winger into a lethal striker. His physical competitiveness has even led him to be the leader in the battle for 1,000 goals.

Not only did Marchisio dare to give this opinion, but Kevin-Prince Boateng did as well. However, Messi has managed to remain among the best players in the world for more than two decades, something that talented players like Diego Maradona, Ronaldinho, and Ronaldo Nazário did not achieve because their lives off the pitch. In addition, Cristiano and the Argentine continue to shine at the highest level despite being over 37 years old, showcasing a remarkable hard work skills.

David Beckham reveals key details on Messi’s elite discipline

In order to reverse the image of not being a model of hard work, David Beckham revealed intimate details about Lionel Messi in a conversation with Rio Ferdinand. “He’ll be the first in the GYM and he’ll be the last out the GYM…I don’t think you get to that level without having that within you. You mentioned Cristiano you know I’ve heard that from multiple people about him as a player… but Lio arrived at 6.50 AM and there was no body in the facility and the team weren’t training till’ 10:00 AM.”

In his 21 years of professional career, Lionel Messi has never been exposed to off-the-field problems or criticism for a lack of intensity in training. Always staying in shape and avoiding serious injuries, the Argentine has managed to become one of the best players in history. For that reason, he is a role model for several young players alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, making it clear that no one can reach the level of both players without being disciplined.

While Lionel Messi emerges as the favorite for some, Cristiano Ronaldo stands out as the favorite for others. Choosing the Portuguese star because of his discipline seems somewhat unfair since the Argentine has also proven to be an impeccable hard work model. Nonetheless, both stars are very different players, leading fans to tie their preferences to playing styles, clubs, and other distinguishing factors.

A rival of Lionel Messi in the World Cup qualifiers revealed a nickname the Argentine star had years ago.

Being one of the biggest sports stars of the past two decades, it would be logical to assume everything about Lionel Messi is already known. He has been under the spotlight since he was a teenager playing his first games with Barcelona, yet there are still details that slowly come to light. Now, a rival of Leo’s in the World Cup qualifiers has revealed a never-before-heard nickname.

Hernan Galindez recently gave an interview to ESPN and recalled his early days playing in youth tournaments in Rosario, the same city where Messi was born. “We faced each other many times,” said the Argentine goalkeeper, who later became a naturalized Ecuadorian. “He played for Abanderado Grandoli, a club very close to my house and my grandparents’ house. That’s where we ran into each other.”

Even back then, as just a kid, Messi stood out for his unusual talent. “He was a beast. There are videos that show it, and that’s exactly how he was. It was striking that, at that age, someone could control the ball like that,” Galindez recalled. “The first memory I have as a goalkeeper, of a goal, he scored it on me. He dribbled past five teammates, including me.”

The young Lionel’s ability to make a difference on the field earned him a certain reputation, although at the time he was known by a nickname that has since disappeared. “People mentioned him,” the goalkeeper explained. “They always called him ‘The redhead who wears the No. 10.’ If you heard that, you were already starting the game down 3–0.”

Over the years, Messi has picked up countless nicknames — from Leo to Pulga (Flea), Enano (Midget), and El Diez (The No. 10) — but Hernan Galindez’s comments introduce a new one to that list. “Redhead” may not seem like a fitting label for the current Inter Miami superstar, yet that’s exactly what he was called back then.

Messi and Galindez crossed paths again decades later

After those early youth soccer tournaments, Hernan Galindez took a path very different from that of Lionel Messi. While the forward left Newell’s Old Boys to join Barcelona as a teenager, the goalkeeper joined the youth ranks of Rosario Central until eventually becoming a professional.

Galindez later played briefly for Quilmes in Argentina, before moving to Ecuador in 2013 to play for Universidad Catolica and Aucas. His excellent performances over more than a decade allowed him to become a naturalized Ecuadorian citizen and earn a call-up to the national team in 2020.

With Ecuador, Galindez faced Lionel Messi again at the 2021 Copa America. There, Leo scored a goal in Argentina’s 3–0 quarterfinal win. Over the years, they met three more times in World Cup qualifiers and friendlies. In their head-to-head record, Messi leads Galindez with three wins and one draw, having scored twice.

Galindez talks about facing Messi

In the same ESPN interview, Hernan Galindez discussed what it means for him to face Messi at the international level and recalled a particular story about one of their matches against Argentina.

“My son, who is 8 years old, told me: ‘I want Messi’s jersey.’ I explained to him that it was difficult,” the goalkeeper began. “I told Leo Campana (Messi’s teammate at Inter Miami at the time) to bring me a jersey. Later he wasn’t called up for the game, but he told me to talk to Messi after the match and that I could swap jerseys with him.” That brief story shows how, despite having known him since childhood and now being rivals, Galindez still holds enormous admiration and respect for Messi.

With a first look to the new jersey, Inter Miami announced the renewal of one of Lionel Messi's key teammates.

Lionel Messi’s extension has given Inter Miami the stability needed to begin shaping the roster for another run at the MLS Cup in 2026. With the squad taking form for the new campaign, one of Messi’s key teammates has now announced his contract renewal, offering a subtle first look at the club’s jersey for the upcoming MLS season.

With the 2025 MLS season in the books, clubs across the league have begun adjusting their rosters, and Inter Miami has already confirmed the departure of three players. However, one player whose deal was set to expire at the end of the campaign will remain with the club for years to come.

On Thursday, Inter Miami announced the extension of defender Ian Fray through the 2028–29 season. The Jamaican international was entering the final year of his contract in 2025, but after a strong season, the Inter Miami academy product has committed his future to the club.

Fray spoke with Inter Miami’s official website and reflected on signing a new deal: “To continue this journey here feels amazing, this club has put so much trust in me for the last 5 years I’ve been here. Going through injuries, they kept their trust in me to sign a new contract and now we’ve won the MLS Cup, so I’m excited for next year.“

Fray struggled early in the season due to fitness issues but gradually earned the trust of head coach Javier Mascherano down the stretch. With 35 appearances, one goal, and three assists in 2025, Fray started at right back in the MLS Cup final against the Vancouver Whitecaps, and with Marcelo Weigandt’s departure confirmed, he currently stands as the frontrunner to retain the starting role.

A first look at Inter Miami’s new jersey

Back in February 2025, Inter Miami unveiled the “Euforia” home kit, the jersey Lionel Messi and company would use for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. As with previous editions, the kit spans two years, but now it features a small yet meaningful update.

After lifting the MLS Cup, Inter Miami will carry a silver star above the crest to commemorate the franchise’s biggest achievement. In the video announcing his renewal, Ian Fray appeared wearing the Euforia jersey with the new star already embroidered, offering fans a sneak peek at the version the team will showcase in 2026.

Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe were supposed to share the same pitch in one of the most anticipated UEFA Champions League nights of the season, yet one of modern soccer’s defining duels never materialized.

Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe were supposed to share the same pitch in one of the most anticipated UEFA Champions League nights of the season, yet one of modern soccer’s defining duels never materialized. As Manchester City returned to the Santiago Bernabeu for another heavyweight meeting with Real Madrid, only Haaland stepped into the spotlight—while Mbappe remained on the bench, unable to participate. The Norwegian later addressed the moment directly, revealing his true feelings with a 10-word claim that added intrigue to an already tense night in European soccer.

Manchester City’s 2-1 victory in the Spanish capital not only revived its group-stage momentum but also reignited the conversation about these two global stars—Haaland thriving at the heart of a dominant City, and Mbappe carrying enormous expectations at a Madrid stepping through an uneven season.

Los Blancos entered the match believing recent progress under Xabi Alonso was beginning to take shape, even after their loss to Celta Vigo. Their pressing, intensity, and organization looked improved, but everything collapsed in the decisive zones. Without Mbappe, Real Madrid produced just one shot on target, their lowest output in a Champions League home match since 2003-04.

However, the issue wasn’t effort. Madrid registered 16 total attempts, tried wide overloads, transition breaks, set pieces, and even deployed Vinicius Junior temporarily as a No. 9. None of it worked.

Mbappe, nursing discomfort in his left knee as well as a recent finger fracture, watched from the sideline as his team struggled to convert promising possession into real danger. The statistics underline his absence: the Frenchman averages a Champions League goal every 3.55 shots, a level of efficiency no one else in Alonso’s squad can replicate.

What did Haaland say about Mbappe?

Asked afterwards whether the Frenchman’s absence gave the visitors an advantage, Haaland did not hide the emotional complexity of the moment. His 10-word true feelings emerged in the middle of his answer, expressing not relief, but competitive disappointment: “Not happy because you want to play against the best”.

Haaland’s honest admission shows that elite players measure themselves against their equals, not their absences. Still, he acknowledged the psychological ripple it caused: “Of course, when a player like Kylian doesn’t play… it gives you a bit of a psychological boost.” City felt it, Madrid felt it, and the Norwegian himself felt the anticlimax of a duel denied.

The 2026 World Cup is still more than 180 days away, yet anticipation around Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo has already sent the event into a frenzy.

The 2026 World Cup is still more than 180 days away, yet anticipation around Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo has already sent the event into a frenzy. As fans rush to secure seats for the tournament hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the presence of both legends has created an unprecedented spike in global demand—one that hints at a deeper twist behind these early waves of excitement.

With FIFA officially opening the latest application window—known as the Random Selection Draw—supporters can now request tickets for specific matches after last week’s group-stage draw mapped out the tournament’s narrative. This is the first time fans know exactly when and where teams such as Argentina, Portugal, and the host nations will play.

Applications opened on December 11 and will close on January 13, 2026. FIFA emphasized that timing does not affect the probability of success. Each household may request up to four tickets per match and up to 40 across the tournament. Tickets range from $60 for group-stage games to $6,730 for the final, though the governing body has warned these are only starting prices—and that dynamic pricing will be implemented for the first time in World Cup history.

Messi and Ronaldo’s magnetism: The heart of the surge

Once the schedule was released, matches involving Argentina and Portugal instantly became the hottest commodities. With Messi and Ronaldo potentially appearing in what may be their final World Cup, fans moved quickly—and the resale market erupted.

According to data tracked across major resale platforms, including TicketData, prices for matches featuring the two soccer icons experienced astronomical increases, with some fixtures soaring to record-breaking levels within 72 hours. The release of the schedule had an immediate impact. Over three days, prices for Argentina’s group games rose by at least 174%, while premiums for Portugal’s featured match in Miami reportedly jumped even higher.

But midway through this pricing explosion emerges the surprising twist: the surge in ticket value is being driven not only by demand, but by a specific pattern linked directly to Messi and Ronaldo’s iconic status and their projected World Cup paths—and that pattern hinges on a figure FIFA quietly anticipated.

Wild surge rewrites modern World Cup history

What’s more, the Messi–Ronaldo effect has inflated demand for their matches by an average of 300%, transforming standard group fixtures into some of the most expensive early-round tickets in modern World Cup history.

One match stands out: Portugal vs. Colombia in Miami, originally priced under $400, now consistently listed for over $2,140, with some resellers posting far higher premiums. The game has become the priciest group-stage fixture outside the semifinals and final.

Argentina’s opening clash with Algeria in Kansas City also doubled in price within days, while Scotland vs. Brazil in Miami saw its own massive boom due to Scotland’s returning fanbase and Brazil’s global following. Secondary market listings for the final at MetLife Stadium already exceed $11,000, years before kickoff.

Barcelona appear to be managing to recover their best version, accumulating four consecutive victories led by a Lamine Yamal in full form. However, the 18-year-old star could lose a key teammate as Marc Casado is being targeted by a top Premier League team.

Although Lamine Yamal‘s injury briefly interrupted his performance, he has since regained his top form and led Barcelona to four consecutive victories. Alongside the 18-year-old star, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong have dominated the midfield, leaving little room for Marc Casado, who has been relegated to a secondary role. In response to this situation, a major Premier League team has identified the 22-year-old midfielder as a target to bolster their squad.

Marc Casado’s future remains uncertain, as Barcelona plan to part ways with him, Robert Lewandowski, and two other players. Amid this scenario, the Spaniard has reportedly attracted attention from the Premier League. According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea have expressed interest in the 22-year-old’s contract situation. The club had approached him a few months ago and is now looking to secure a deal, given the opportunity presented by the Culers’ decision.

After a standout debut season with Barcelona, Marc Casado has seen his role diminish, primarily due to Frenkie de Jong’s emergence as an undisputed starter. In the 2025-26 season, the Spaniard has logged just 698 minutes, stalling the trajectory that once pegged him as a key future player for the team. However, coach Hansi Flick continues to value him as a regular part of the rotation, with the midfielder consistently seeing playing time in matches.

Even if Barcelona are open to selling Marc Casado, his arrival at Chelsea might not assure him more playing time. With Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, Romeo Lavia and Reece James able to play in the midfield, the 22-year-old might face a similar substitute role as at the Culers, raising doubts about whether a move to England would boost his career. Nonetheless, coach Enzo Maresca may play a key role in convincing the Spaniard, as playing time might be a decisive factor.

Casado might face hurdles to earn minutes at Barcelona next season

Marc Casado has maintained his competitiveness thanks to ample playing time at Barcelona, even becoming a key player in coach Hansi Flick’s rotation. However, the rise of Eric Garcia as a midfielder has complicated the 22-year-old midfielder’s situation, resulting in no playing time against Eintracht Frankfurt. Additionally, the presence of Marc Bernal and the return of Pablo Gavi may push him to become the fifth option in the team’s rotation.

In the 2026–27 season, Barcelona can bolster their defense, making Eric Garcia’s role as a midfielder an increasingly viable choice alongside the young talent Marc Bernal. Additionally, Gavi is returning from injury and could reclaim his usual spot in the rotation. Given these circumstances, Marc Casado might be compelled to leave the Culers if he wants to take on a more prominent role and continue to develop as a player.

Vasco da Gama take on Fluminense in the first leg of the 2025 Copa do Brasil semifinal. Fans in the United States can follow every moment of the matchup, with complete kickoff details and broadcast information provided for both television and streaming platforms.

Match Overview

The opening chapter of this heated rivalry arrives with everything on the line, as both teams see this matchup as their final path to hardware in 2025. Fluminense enter riding confidence after securing a spot in the Copa Libertadores and turning heads with a memorable Club World Cup showing, yet expectations are high to translate that form into a title.

Vasco da Gama come from a far different place after battling near the relegation zone most of the year, viewing this clash as a chance to flip the narrative and end the season with purpose. With pride, momentum, and a trophy dream hanging in the balance, this showdown is one fans won’t want to miss.

A player in La Liga is in conflict with his club over prioritizing the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The World Cup is the most important tournament in soccer and arguably the most significant sporting event on the planet. It’s normal for players to focus on this goal in the months leading up to the tournament. However, one La Liga player has taken this to unusual levels, entering into a conflict with his club over the 2026 FIFA tournament.

Dominik Livakovic was one of the standout stars for Croatia at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. There, the goalkeeper was decisive in penalty shootouts against Japan and Brazil, helping the European side reach the semifinals, where they were eliminated by Lionel Messi’s Argentina.

That performance boosted Livakovic’s profile in European soccer, leading to a transfer from Dinamo Zagreb to Fenerbahce for approximately $8 million. After two years in Turkey, he was loaned to Girona in Spain at the start of the current season, but things have not gone as planned.

Livakovic has not played a single minute since arriving at Girona, neither in La Liga nor in the Copa del Rey, as head coach Michel has prioritized Paulo Gazzaniga in goal. As a result, the Croatian star decided to seek a move to another club during the January transfer window to ensure he maintains his place in the Croatia national team ahead of the World Cup.

The conflict came to a head last week when Gazzaniga came down with the flu and was unable to train normally. In that situation, coach Michel intended to play Livakovic in the Copa del Rey match against Ourense FC. However, the Croatian goalkeeper refused, saying he wanted to focus on securing a transfer during the winter window. With this scenario, Gazzaniga had to play anyway, and Girona lost 2-1 to their third-division opponents, resulting in elimination from the tournament.

Coach Michel speaks on Livakovic

The controversy in Girona has become public in recent days, and Michel addressed it during Thursday’s press conference. “Livakovic wants to leave. He doesn’t want to play here, his priority is the World Cup,” the coach said, according to Fabrizio Romano on X. “Gazzaniga had to play while he was ill… because Livakovic doesn’t want to play. I’m very angry about this situation.”

Regarding the Croatian goalkeeper, Michel was clear. “Livakovic has a different timeline than the team because he needs to play for the World Cup, not for Girona,” the coach explained. “He told me, and he’s honest. But so am I. We haven’t reached an agreement. In the last conversation, I already told him it’s not a problem; he didn’t have to decide.”

Finally, Michel acknowledged his frustration with the situation: “I don’t like to reveal private conversations, but sometimes it drives me crazy. I have a goalkeeper available, and Gazzaniga played the Copa with flu and a fever, but I’m the one paying for it. What if something happens to Gazzaniga? We need to find a solution in the winter transfer window.”

Livakovic is key for Croatia

While he has not found a place at Girona, Dominik Livakovic remains a key figure for the Croatia national team. He has played nearly every match for his country over the past three years, including the victorious European qualifiers campaign, where they dominated their group with seven wins and one draw.

Now Croatia are focused on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, aiming to improve on their last two performances, where they reached the final and semifinal stages. In last week’s draw, they were placed in Group L alongside England, Panama, and Ghana.

After the chaos in the game against Celta Vigo, Kylian Mbappé will be missing four Real Madrid teammates as La Liga confirmed their suspensions.

Kylian Mbappé has become the focal point of a Real Madrid side that has struggled to deliver convincing performances whenever the French star isn’t at his best. Following the chaos in their latest league match against Celta Vigo, La Liga has now confirmed the suspensions of four of Mbappé’s teammates.

For Matchday 16, Real Madrid hosted Celta Vigo last Sunday in a match where Los Blancos once again failed to close the gap on FC Barcelona at the top of the table. After Celta opened the scoring in the 54th minute, frustrations and rising tension led to a desperate response from Madrid, which suffered their first major blow in the 64th minute when Fran García was sent off after committing two quick fouls.

As Real Madrid pushed for an equalizer, tension between the players and referee Alejandro Quintero González escalated, but it boiled over in the 90+2 minute. Álvaro Carreras was shown a red card after twice protesting to the referee while trying to restart play quickly, a decision sparked outrage across the Madrid bench, leading to further confrontations and bookings, including suspensions for Dani Carvajal and Endrick, who were both substitutes.

On Wednesday, La Liga issued a statement confirming that Álvaro Carreras, Dani Carvajal, and Endrick will each serve a two-match suspension. Meanwhile, defender Fran García will serve a one-match ban for his red card.

According to the disciplinary committee, the two-game bans stem from repeated protests and “disparagement” toward referee Quintero González. In contrast, García’s dismissal was due to an in-play foul, resulting in a less severe punishment than the others.

Currently sitting second with 36 points, Real Madrid will travel to face Deportivo Alavés on Sunday, where Mbappé and company will be without all four suspended teammates. García will return for the following match against Sevilla, but Carreras, Carvajal, and Endrick will have to wait one more week.

Alonso expresses frustration with the referee

Carreras’ red card infuriated Real Madrid, causing several players from the bench to rush toward the referee in protest, and coach Xabi Alonso was no exception. With rumors already circulating about his future, the former Bayern Munich midfielder also voiced his displeasure to Quintero González, earning a yellow card and capping a night to forget.

In the post-match press conference, Alonso gave a blunt assessment of the officiating: “The referee’s decisions drove us crazy. The sending-off… he was very permissive, I didn’t like his performance at all… Álvaro’s yellow card is very debatable, it felt like he really wanted to give it. I didn’t like it, and it threw us off a bit. I didn’t like the officiating.”

As the new year approaches, Son Heung-Min, now the face of LAFC, has sent an unmistakable message toward Messi and Inter Miami about the battle to come.

The 2025 MLS season ended with Lionel Messi once again at the summit, lifting Inter Miami to its first league title and cementing a legacy that has reshaped North American soccer. Yet as the new year approaches, another superstar — Son Heung-Min, now the face of LAFC — has sent an unmistakable message toward Messi and Inter Miami about the battle to come. And while MLS grows into a global spectacle attracting household names, the rivalry forming between Messi’s side and Son’s outfit is beginning to feel like a continental heavyweight duel waiting to explode.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s dominance has transformed Inter Miami into the standard-bearer of the league, while Son has quickly become the symbolic leader of LAFC’s new era. Both stars represent their clubs and countries — Argentina and South Korea — with monumental expectations, and their first MLS showdown is already circled on every calendar.

Messi’s 2025 campaign was, simply put, one of the greatest individual seasons in MLS history. He finished the regular season with 29 goals and 19 assists, lifting the Golden Boot and guiding the Herons to their maiden MLS Cup. In the playoffs, he was even more devastating — six goals and nine assists, a record 15 goal involvements in a single postseason.

Messi’s two assists in the MLS Cup final — a 3-1 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps — earned him MLS Cup MVP and helped secure his second consecutive MLS MVP award, making him the first player ever to achieve that feat. “It was a long year… but a historic one,” Messi reflected, via ESPN. “Being able to achieve what we did was very special.”

Since arriving in Miami in 2023, he has produced over 100 goal involvements, more than any other MLS player in that period. Even at 38, his dominance remains unmatched — not by Premier League imports, not by Bundesliga attackers, not even by other global icons now calling MLS home.

What did Son Heung-Min say?

Son’s inaugural MLS season was electric. The South Korean forward immediately became LAFC’s top attacking threat, revitalizing the club and pushing it deep into the Western Conference playoffs before falling to Vancouver. While Son had a strong individual campaign, the disappointment of missing a final showdown with Messi clearly stuck with him. And then came the moment — the one now reverberating through MLS circles.

During a visit to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Son shared a playful but pointed message with former teammates — and with Messi’s Argentina colleagues. His words contained the now-viral nine-word warning: “I let Messi win this year, but next year…”, before adding: “Next year, we are on top”. It quickly spread across social media, signaling not just confidence, but ambition.

The bold warning has already become lore. Now, it’s time to see whether LAFC can turn the 33-year-old’s message into reality, or whether Messi will extend his streak of dominance one more year.

n Inter Miami’s MLS Cup final win over the Vancouver Whitecaps delivered something entirely different—a viral exchange that stunned fans across the world.

Lionel Messi has already redefined expectations in the MLS, but his latest moment in Inter Miami’s MLS Cup final win over the Vancouver Whitecaps delivered something entirely different—a viral exchange that stunned fans across the world. After guiding the club to a historic 3-1 victory and lifting yet another trophy, Messi unexpectedly became the center of attention for a reason that had nothing to do with a goal or an assist.

A new “RefCam” angle released by the league caught the Inter Miami captain doing something supporters have rarely witnessed: speaking in English during a heated moment in the match. For an icon celebrated for his soccer rather than his voice, the incident set social media ablaze.

The footage—captured through MLS’ new referee body-camera system and widely shared online—shows Messi approaching the referee mid-game. The Argentine star, usually soft-spoken and almost exclusively Spanish-speaking on the field, confronts the official after a contested challenge.

Then comes the twist. In clear, accented English, the Argentine superstar blurts out the now-viral line: “Foul? Foul? No foul!?” Fans were floored. Many had never heard the 38-year-old speak the language publicly during a match, and the humorous confusion in his tone only amplified the moment. Comment sections exploded with reactions ranging from disbelief to pure amusement.

One supporter wrote, “This ref cam is pure gold!” while another added, “That’s why he’s the GOAT—dominates the league and the language.” The simplicity of the exchange made it even funnier. Messi didn’t deliver a speech; he didn’t even finish a sentence. But those few English words were enough to break the internet.

Messi’s rare use of English: Why it shocked fans

Even after moving to the United States in 2023, Messi has always preferred to speak Spanish publicly. Interviews, press conferences, and matchday moments are almost entirely conducted in his native tongue. But behind the scenes, teammates insist he understands English well—he just rarely uses it.

Miami midfielder Julian Gressel once explained: “He came over to me and said something in English… and afterward he goes, ‘English pretty good, no?’” Messi himself has admitted to understanding the language, telling reporters last year: “I understand everything, or almost everything, in English. But out of embarrassment, I don’t speak.” That is—until the MLS Cup final RefCam revealed what he says in the heat of the moment.

Amid the uncertainty surrounding his future, Xabi Alonso suffered another defeat with Real Madrid against Manchester City. In response, legend Thierry Henry decided to share his opinion on something that may have been affecting the Spanish coach since his arrival at Los Blancos.

Xabi Alonso has not enjoyed a dream start since his arrival at Real Madrid. Despite a promising beginning, the team has suffered a clear drop in performance, accumulating a series of inconsistent results. Far from serving as a turning point, Los Blancos were defeated by Manchester City, further deepening the team’s crisis. In response, legend Thierry Henry pointed to a clear factor that may be affecting the Spanish coach within the squad.

“I find it always ludicrous that a manager can be in trouble after being six months in a job… I don’t think they should question the coach. If you have a coach in position, you try to see what he can do… He’s coaching too much, for some people, and not managing enough… I feel sorry for Alonso because you can see what he did with Leverkusen when he was able to coach a team who was going to listen to what he was going to do,” Thierry Henry said, via CBS Golazo.

Henry’s words resonated with fans, who largely agree with his assessment. Rather than lacking the ability to transform the team, Xabi Alonso seems to have faced challenges in managing the squad’s egos, with several players remaining in the starting lineup despite their low performance levels. For that reason, his role is seen as that of a manager rather than a coach capable of making shifts to prioritize performance, making his tenure different from his Leverkusen days.

Jude Bellingham and Arda Güler may serve as an ideal example as both have each managed to shine at Real Madrid, though not together in the same starting lineup. Despite this, Xabi Alonso opts to keep both players as key pieces, which complicates the team’s ability to control matches consistently. Nevertheless, the Spanish coach seems to have put the team back on track, recovering players’ support.

Xabi Alonso have recovered Real Madrid’s players support

Upon arriving at Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso decided to impose a re-established order and new rules in the locker room, something that, according to The Athletic, did not sit well with some stars. Even though the roster seemed divided, the coach has transformed his approach, regaining the support of several stars who now appear convinced by the team’s game plan and give reason to Thierry Henry in his perspective.

In his latest CBS Golazo appearance, Thierry Henry explained that a coach at Real Madrid needs to understand that it is 90% players and 10% coach, and thus must allow the players to manage the car. Although his words sparked some controversy, the Spanish media claim that Xabi Alonso has managed to improve relations with the dressing room by engaging in dialogue and changing his approach. This shift has led to the players showing much more commitment.

Following the latest defeat against Manchester City, several Real Madrid stars as Thibaut Courtois, Jude Bellingham, or Rodrygo Goes, expressed their full commitment to Xabi’s tenure, making it clear that they are the ones who need to improve. Having a roster weakened by injuries, they struggled to shine, but they are expected to return to their best form once the team is back to full strength.

Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates have scheduled two friendly matches in South America for early 2026.

After winning the 2025 Major League Soccer championship, Inter Miami are already looking ahead. Alongside roster updates, including the departure of key players and negotiations for new signings, Lionel Messi and his teammates are gradually becoming familiar with the schedule they will face during the first months of next year.

MLS action will not resume until late February, with the round of 16 of the CONCACAF Champions Cup taking place a few weeks later. That means the Herons will have more than two months without official competition, giving them the chance to undertake an extensive preseason.

In addition to conditioning work, Inter Miami will play several friendly matches during this period to build match fitness and prepare as best as possible for the start of the season. The first confirmed matches for 2026 have now been announced.

Messi and his teammates will embark on a South American tour beginning on Saturday, January 31, in Colombia. On that day, they will face Atletico Nacional de Medellin at Estadio Atanasio Girardot in front of more than 40,000 spectators.

Exactly one week later, Inter Miami will play another match, this time against Barcelona Sporting Club in Ecuador at Estadio Banco Pichincha in Guayaquil, which has a capacity of nearly 60,000 fans. The South American tour could also include a match in Peru, although that possibility has not yet been confirmed.

The impact of Messi’s visit to South America

Following the confirmation of the matches that Inter Miami will play in South America early next year, some of the organizers involved in the friendlies discussed what Lionel Messi’s visit will mean.

“Facing Inter Miami and hosting in our home stadium players who have made history in world soccer is an opportunity to show, once again, that Atletico Nacional is a club of international caliber,” said Sebastian Arango, president of the Colombian club, according to TN.

“Perhaps it will be the last time fans see Messi playing in Ecuador as a World Cup champion,” said Daniel Molina, one of the organizers of the agreement between Inter Miami and Barcelona Sporting Club, according to One Football. He also explained that the choice of Estadio Banco Pichincha for the match was “to reach the largest number of people in the country, because fans will come from all over,” highlighting the significance of Messi’s visit.

Messi needs a strong preseason

Beyond organizing friendly matches, the core purpose of the preseason will be the physical conditioning of Inter Miami’s players. They will face a demanding year with three simultaneous competitions, but some will have another goal in mind: the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Only three months of MLS competition will precede the FIFA tournament, making it essential to avoid injuries that could jeopardize the participation of the top stars. Lionel Messi, in particular, has repeatedly emphasized the importance of proper preparation during these months to maintain peak physical condition and ultimately confirm his participation in the World Cup with Argentina.

Manchester City surprised everyone by defeating Real Madrid with an epic comeback at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, securing a rise in the Champions League standings. Furthermore, Pep Guardiola set a new record, further expanding his legacy in the soccer history.

Manchester City didn’t kick off the season at their best. An inconsistent start saw them lose ground in both the Premier League and Champions League, ceding the lead to Arsenal in both competitions. However, they turned their fortunes around, notably defeating Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium to climb the standings. Adding to this achievement, Pep Guardiola set a new record, further cementing his legacy in soccer history.

According to MisterChip on X, formerly known as Twitter, Pep Guardiola now holds the record for the most wins by a coach against Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, with seven victories. These include legendary encounters such as Barcelona’s 2–6 triumph in 2009. Moreover, he has only suffered three defeats, underscoring his dominance over Los Blancos throughout his illustrious career.

While this record underscores his legendary legacy, Pep Guardiola downplayed the significance of this particular victory, reflecting on other memorable matches. “The first times are different, the first was the 2–6, that one was about winning La Liga and this is only about moving forward in the competition. We might meet again later on. Beating Madrid at their home is something I value a lot, just like beating Barça, Atleti, Villarreal,” he said in the post-game press conference.

With a large part of the season still ahead, Manchester City have a long road to go in the Champions League, making this victory just another step toward their real objective, which is winning the title again. Tied with Atalanta at 13 points, and with Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, and Liverpool just one point behind, any slip could send them into the playoffs and put their direct qualification at risk.

Guardiola is highly critical of Manchester City’s performance

While Manchester City secured a win against Real Madrid, the team struggled to display their best form throughout the match. The Citizens not only lost the ball possession but also lacked effectiveness in front of goal. Despite taking eight shots on target, they converted only two of those opportunities. In response, Pep Guardiola offered a candid critique of his team’s performance.

“Madrid were much better than us at the start; Rodrygo, Bellingham, and Gonzalo caused us a lot of damage. We couldn’t control the balls we were losing; there was no option. In the end, we are learning, because I’m sure that in the future we are going to improve,” Guardiola said in the post-game press conference.

Taking advantage of the spaces behind the defensive line, Real Madrid managed to cause significant damage throughout the match, even becoming the first team to score. Both Rodrygo and Jude Bellingham were able to open up plenty of gaps, but Pep Guardiola’s reorganization halted any momentum from Los Blancos. However, the Citizens were unable to regain control of the match, something the Spanish coach did not hesitate to complain about.

Far from ending the Mohamed Salah drama at Liverpool, this dilemma has entered a new chapter. While coach Arne Slot hints that the veteran must acknowledge his mistake, a report reveals that Florian Wirtz may be one of the issues troubling the Egyptian within the team.

Mohamed Salah and Liverpool’s relationship is currently strained, primarily due to his evident change of role in the lineup. Far from staying quiet, the Egyptian openly expressed his frustration to the media about his diminishing prominence. In response, coach Arne Slot decided to leave him out of the latest squad list. While many expected the tension to ease, a report suggests that Florian Wirtz is a significant factor contributing to the veteran’s dissatisfaction with the Reds.

According to BILD, Mohamed Salah is reportedly quite frustrated with Liverpool due to the arrival of Florian Wirtz. The Egyptian supposedly dislikes the status the German receives as the ‘future’ of the Reds, turning him into an ‘enemy’ in the dressing room. In addition, the youngster’s place in the starting lineup during the veteran’s absence is causing the 33-year-old star’s attitude to become completely hostile toward the team.

Florian Wirtz, who joined Liverpool for an impressive fee of $154 million, was anticipated to be a key player for the team’s future success. However, the German’s performances have fallen short of expectations. He has yet to score a goal and has only contributed five assists in 20 matches. Despite this, coach Arne Slot has consistently started him, shifting Dominik Szoboszlai into Salah’s role on the wing and relegating the Egyptian star to the bench.

Liverpool reportedly recognized Mohamed Salah’s ego issues but decided to tolerate them due to his impressive performance on the pitch. However, according to BILD, with his impact now diminished, the club seems to have set boundaries with the Egyptian star. They support Arne Slot’s decision to leave him out of the squad on a situational basis and to reduce his prominence within the team.

Salah faces uphill fight to reclaim his spot at Liverpool under Slot

In Mohamed Salah’s absence, coach Arne Slot has embraced a significant tactical shift at Liverpool, potentially complicating the Egyptian star’s future with the team. The growing reliance on Florian Wirtz and the rise of Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike as strikers threaten to diminish the veteran’s prominence. The Reds have transitioned to a frontline without traditional wingers, opting for a strike partnership to spearhead the attack.

Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike are not the only options up front. Cody Gakpo has emerged as a versatile player, starting out wide but often joining as a second striker alongside the center-forward. This shift allows Wirtz and Dominik Szoboszlai to command the midfield with complete freedom. Consequently, Salah’s potential return might require adapting to a new role, prioritizing the new system and redefining his status within the roster.

Inter Miami wants Luis Suarez, Nacional wants him—and the ball is firmly at the Uruguayan’s feet.

Luis Suarez’s story at Inter Miami may not be finished yet. As the MLS champion enters another defining off-season, the futures of Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi have once again become intertwined, shaping the next chapter of a club that has rapidly transformed from an expansion experiment into a continental force. Suarez, now 38, has reached the moment every player eventually faces: stay in the club that revived him, or return home to the club of his heart. Inter Miami wants him, Nacional wants him—and the ball is firmly at the Uruguayan’s feet.

What complicates matters and makes the story all the more mysterious is that Miami’s plan to keep Suarez comes with an unexpected twist that could force a dramatic decision in the weeks ahead.

Fresh from lifting the MLS Cup—his first title in North America—the Uruguayan veteran is once again the center of speculation. His contract expires at the end of December, and the striker’s future has split into two clear paths: remain in Miami for one more campaign alongside Messi, or return to Nacional for a final farewell in Montevideo.

Inter Miami president Jorge Mas has made the club’s stance unmistakably clear. “He’s a legend of the game. He deserves to make the decision to leave through the front door,” Mas told reporters. “If Luis decides to stay another year, we’d welcome it. Of course, the conversations would then focus on the financial side. The decision is his.”

Within the club, the ambition is immense. After conquering MLS, Miami now wants to stamp its authority on the CONCACAF Champions Cup, a competition where experience matters—and Suarez still offers plenty of it. Even at 38, his record in 2025 was outstanding: 17 goals and 17 assists in 50 matches across all competitions. Messi values him, the squad relies on him, and the fans adore him. But the club’s budget tells a different story.

The hidden twist: What staying in Miami really means

Here is where the unexpected twist emerges—To stay at Inter Miami, Suarez would probably have to take a pay cut. This is the key detail driving the uncertainty. MLS roster rules, Designated Player (DP) restrictions, and Miami’s existing financial commitments—all of which place the club under pressure to restructure Suarez’s contract. The Herons also owe Atletico Madrid $16 million for Rodrigo De Paul, further tightening their wage flexibility.

This creates a unique crossroads for Suarez: stay with Messi and continue chasing international relevance in a growing league or leave in style and return to his boyhood club as the unquestioned centerpiece. Unlike Messi—who is secured through 2028—Suarez must decide whether the emotional bond with Miami outweighs the financial compromise.

Nacional’s emotional pull: Final dance at home?

Meanwhile, in Montevideo, Nacional is preparing its own decisive move. The Uruguayan giants want the 38-year-old striker for a third and final spell, and its message is irresistible: come home, lead the club, and write your last chapter where your journey began.

And yet—despite the public enthusiasm—Uruguayan insider Daniel Solana reports that Suarez has already declined Nacional’s first approach, signaling that the decision is far from straightforward.

As reports in Italy suggest, the Rossoneri are deep into talks with the American star over a long-term extension—yet one unresolved point continues to shape discussions behind closed doors.

Christian Pulisic’s meteoric rise at Milan has become one of Serie A’s defining storylines, and his performances have placed contract negotiations front and center at Milanello. As reports in Italy suggest, the Rossoneri are deep into talks with the American star over a long-term extension—yet one unresolved point continues to shape discussions behind closed doors.

Pulisic’s transformation into Milan’s most decisive forward has elevated him into rare territory, outshining expectations set during his spells at Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea. His blend of explosiveness, efficiency, and maturity has turned him into the face of the team’s new attacking era, and the club—revitalized under Massimiliano Allegri—recognizes the urgency of securing his future.

The past week showcased precisely why Christian Pulisic has become indispensable. Despite battling a severe fever that left him “dead in bed,” he traveled to Turin and came off the bench to produce a breathtaking, match-defining brace in Milan’s 3-2 comeback victory over Torino.

Those goals brought him to 13 league strikes in the 2025 calendar year, the highest total of his club career. He now leads the Rossoneri in goals for the season and sits atop the Serie A scoring charts alongside Lautaro Martinez—yet what makes his output exceptional is the rate at which he finds the net.

The American is averaging a goal every 64 minutes in the Italian top-flight and one every 61 minutes in all competitions, numbers unmatched in Italy and bettered only by Harry Kane across Europe’s top five leagues. His double against Torino also made him just the third Milan player in a decade to score two goals in one league match as a substitute.

Pulisic’s key contract demand emerges

Midway through negotiations, the central issue has finally surfaced. While Milan can automatically extend Pulisic’s current deal—set to expire in June 2027—to 2028, the club’s real intention is to secure him until 2030. Talks have been ongoing for months, but progress has stalled over a single, crucial request from the player.

The 27-year-old is said to be asking for a higher salary. The American currently earns roughly $4.3 million net per season, and his representatives are pushing for a raise to about $5.4 million, a figure the club is still weighing. Italian outlet Corriere della Sera reports that this difference is the primary obstacle preventing a breakthrough.

Given his impact, fan sentiment, and the trajectory of modern transfer markets, $5.4m is hardly excessive for a player performing at elite European levels. Milan, however, remains cautious after the failed renewal saga with Mike Maignan, whose uncertain future stands as a warning. They cannot afford another situation where a cornerstone player enters the final years of his contract with unresolved terms.

The Red and Blacks plan to finalize the extension soon, avoiding the mistakes of past negotiations and rewarding the player who has become their most reliable weapon. Wherever the final figure lands, Milan knows the truth: keeping Christian Pulisic is not just wise—it is essential to the next era of the Rossoneri.

Antoine Griezmann surprised many by not choosing Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo as the greatest player in the history of La Liga.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo starred in unforgettable battles for nearly a decade in La Liga, while also setting all kinds of records. Antoine Griezmann played during the same era as both of them, yet he still leaned toward another legend as the greatest player in the history of the Spanish league.

In an interview shared by ESPN FC on X, Griezmann took part in a rapid-fire Q&A in which he was asked for his opinions on different topics. In one of the questions, he had to choose the best player in La Liga history, and after a laugh, he went with Johan Cruyff.

The Dutch legend certainly earned a place in that debate. He played five seasons with Barcelona between 1973 and 1978, scoring 48 goals in 143 matches and winning the league title in 1974. Later, as a manager, Cruyff had an even longer run with the Blaugrana, working there from 1988 to 1996 and winning four La Liga trophies.

However, other icons who achieved even more impressive accomplishments were left out of Griezmann’s choice. In fact, Lionel Messi is the all-time leading scorer in La Liga with 474 goals, and he also holds the record for the most league titles (13), all of them with Barcelona.

When it comes to matches played, Messi ranks 12th in La Liga history with 520. The top spot is shared by Joaquin and Andoni Zubizarreta, both with 622 matches. Antoine Griezmann is fifth on that list with 546 matches and is the highest among active players in the Spanish league.

Griezmann picks his GOAT

In the same interview, Griezmann also answered specific questions about his favorite players. He chose Didier Drogba as the best finisher, Andres Iniesta as the best playmaker, and Marcel Desailly as the best defender. Gianluigi Buffon is, according to the Atletico Madrid forward, the greatest goalkeeper of all time.

Griezmann then selected Ronaldinho as the best dribbler and his compatriot Zinedine Zidane as the player with the most aura. Finally, he faced the biggest question of all: who is the greatest soccer player of all time? There, Griezmann gave an expected answer—he chose Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, avoiding picking one over the other.

Griezmann knows Messi and Ronaldo well

Over his extensive professional career, Antoine Griezmann has faced the two players he considers the greatest of all time on countless occasions. Against Lionel Messi, he played 28 matches at club and international level, with the Argentine forward winning 17, six ending in draws, and five won by Griezmann. In those meetings, Messi produced 28 goal contributions, while the French star had 12.

Against Cristiano Ronaldo, Griezmann has played even more often. In total, they have met 34 times, including several matches between France and Portugal, with a very balanced record: 13 wins for CR7, 12 for Antoine, and nine draws. The big difference comes in individual production—Ronaldo scored 25 goals in those matchups, while Griezmann scored only six.

Even as the French striker continues to deliver for Al-Ittihad, questions around his long-term future have taken a surprising—and confusing—turn.

Karim Benzema’s name is once again dominating headlines in the Saudi Pro League, where his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo has helped reshape the competition’s global appeal. But even as the French striker continues to deliver for Al-Ittihad, questions around his long-term future have taken a surprising—and confusing—turn.

Reports initially suggested that Benzema had secured a fresh two-year contract extension, yet new information now casts doubt on that widely circulated claim, leaving supporters unsure what to believe.

For weeks, speculation surrounding Benzema’s next step intensified, particularly after the forward hinted that a return to Europe—and even to Real Madrid—“was possible” during a candid interview with Diario AS. His affection toward Madrid, where he won 25 trophies, including five Champions League titles and the 2022 Ballon d’Or, has never faded. “If Florentino is still there, it’s possible. We talk… I’m a Madridista, I feel it inside,” he said—comments that fueled dreams of a dramatic Bernabéu comeback.

Then came the shock: Saudi outlet SBA Sport announced that Benzema had agreed to a new two-year extension that would keep him at Al-Ittihad until 2028, seemingly shutting the door on any European homecoming. But it wouldn’t take long for that narrative to be challenged.

Twist in the story: What the new reports actually reveal

Midway through the unfolding saga, French outlet Foot Mercato delivered the twist: the seven-time Pro League champion has not agreed to any extension at all. Their reporting confirms that no offer has been made to Benzema, and that his current contract—with no renewals attached—still runs only until June 2026.

This means the earlier “extension” reports were premature at best, misleading at worst. Sources close to the player have emphasized that there is no new proposal from Al-Ittihad. What’s more, talks about an extension have not even begun, and thus, interest from Europe remains alive, including from his former club Lyon. This directly contradicts the early claims that Benzema had already committed his future to Jeddah.

Benzema’s current form keeps demand high

Even at 37, Benzema continues to operate at a level few strikers of his generation can match. He has already scored 11 goals in 12 matches, a return that highlights why both Al-Ittihad and potential European suitors remain keen. His importance to the Tigers cannot be overstated: his goals, movement, and leadership have defined the club’s modern identity, particularly as they compete directly with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr for Saudi dominance.

Amid reports linking him with a move to Manchester United, Sergio Ramos has delivered a heartfelt farewell to CF Monterrey.

Sergio Ramos has announced his departure from CF Monterrey after a year in which the Spanish defender earned the respect and admiration of fans, becoming one of the most impactful signings in Liga MX. Amid reports linking him to Manchester United as his next destination, Ramos shared a heartfelt farewell to Rayados in an extended message.

Monterrey were enjoying a strong run in the 2025 Liga MX Apertura, reaching the semifinals and taking a 1-0 win in the first leg against Toluca. However, the Red Devils completed a 3-2 comeback in the second leg last Saturday, eliminating Rayados and marking Ramos’ final match for the club.

After the game, Ramos took to social media to post a special message to Monterrey and their supporters. “Saying goodbye is never easy. A chapter comes to an end—one that began full of excitement in February and allowed me to discover a new country, a new city, a new style of football… a chapter that leaves me with many new experiences and, above all, many friends,” the message started.

Ramos earned the captain’s armband shortly after arriving in February, a responsibility he greatly valued: “I will always feel proud to have worn the Rayados captain’s armband, to have led the team in the first Club World Cup in its new format, to have battled through the Clausura, the Apertura, the Leagues Cup, the CONCACAF Champions Cup… and to have defended the Steel Giant with courage by your side in every home match.

“To the club, to my beloved teammates, to the coaching staffs, to the employees—thank you. And above all, thank you to the fans, who showed me warmth and affection from the moment I set foot in the city. I will always look back on this stage of my career with nostalgia, and I will always say with pride: ¡Arriba el Monterrey!” Ramos concluded in an Instagram post that included 20 photos highlighting his time at the club.

Beyond Liga MX, Sergio Ramos featured in the Leagues Cup, the CONCACAF Champions Cup, and the FIFA 2025 Club World Cup, where Monterrey advanced from the group stage. Although he leaves Mexico without a trophy, Ramos — now 39 — made a significant impact in less than a year, finishing with 32 appearances and seven goals.

Manchester United, Sergio Ramos’ next destination?

Even after confirming his departure from Monterrey, questions remain about where Ramos will go next, whether he could join Lionel Messi in MLS or make a return to Europe. With the veteran defender still open to new challenges, one European giant may be preparing a move.

According to Spanish outlet Cadena SER, Manchester United have presented Sergio Ramos with a proposal to join the club as a free agent in the winter transfer window. Reports indicate the defender is eager to return to Europe, and with his contract expiring in December 2025, the Red Devils have emerged as a potential landing spot for the former Real Madrid star.

Robert Lewandowski is close to matching a UEFA Champions League record held by Lionel Messi, but his scoring drought has prevented him from doing so.

Lionel Messi is one of the most remarkable players in the history of the UEFA Champions League, having shined for nearly two decades in European soccer. That allowed him to set numerous records, one of which Robert Lewandowski is close to surpassing. However, the Barcelona forward’s drought has kept him from achieving it so far.

Messi is the player who has scored against the most opponents in Champions League history. Between 2004 and 2023, playing for Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, he found the net against 40 different rivals—more than any other player since the competition was created.

Lewandowski is very close to that mark. From his years with Borussia Dortmund, then with Bayern Munich and now with Barcelona, 38 different clubs have conceded goals to him in the Champions League. That means that with just two more goals against opponents he has never scored on, the Polish striker would join Messi in that elite group.

However, that milestone has been delayed. Lewandowski reached the number 38 during the 2024-25 edition, but since then, his luck has turned. In the current season, Barcelona have faced three teams Robert had never scored against, but he could not break the streak.

Against Newcastle United, the Polish forward played 70 minutes and failed to score before being replaced by Andreas Christensen. Then, against Club Brugge, he came on in the second half for Ferran Torres and also did not score. And on Tuesday, Lewandowski again could not find the net against Eintracht Frankfurt during the 66 minutes he was on the pitch.

Lewandowski’s Champions League drought

Robert Lewandowski’s numbers this season are unusual. He is one of the top scorers in La Liga 2025-26 with eight goals, but in the Champions League he has not scored even once in the five matches he has played. Adding the final games of last season’s edition, the Polish striker is now sitting on a seven-match scoreless run in European competition.

However, in the final two games of the league phase, Lewandowski could not only end that negative streak, but also reach Lionel Messi’s record. Barcelona still have matches against Slavia Prague and Copenhagen to close out their participation in this stage of the Champions League, and those are two opponents Robert has never scored against. Should he do so, he will equal the Argentine forward.

Lewandowski’s favorite victims in the Champions League

As the third-highest scorer in Champions League history—behind only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi—it is no surprise that Robert Lewandowski is close to multiple records in the competition.

Among the 105 goals he has scored in Europe’s top club tournament, Lewandowski’s favorite victim is Benfica. He has scored nine goals against the Portuguese side, while he has found the net seven times against Red Star Belgrade. Behind them are Real Madrid and Salzburg, with six. In addition, Robert has scored against other European giants such as Barcelona, Arsenal, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Manchester City, Juventus, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain.

Today, Pulisic stands statistically above elite contemporaries such as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Bukayo Saka, Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, and Rodrygo, while becoming one of Serie A’s most decisive match-winners.

Christian Pulisic’s evolution at Milan has moved far beyond the level many expected when he left the Premier League. Today, Pulisic stands statistically above elite contemporaries such as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Bukayo Saka, Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, and Rodrygo, while becoming one of Serie A’s most decisive match-winners. And yet, the most eye-catching revelation about his production at the San Siro places him ahead of some of Europe’s best. What is clear already, however, is that Milan has found a talisman whose efficiency puts England and Europe’s brightest wide attackers in the shadows.

Pulisic’s transformation in Italy has been remarkable. La Gazzetta dello Sport captured it perfectly with a headline that read: “One goal every hour and Milan soars: in Europe only Kane does better.” That observation is no exaggeration. Every 64 minutes in Serie A, Pulisic finds the net, an astonishing level of efficiency that only Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane surpasses across Europe’s top leagues.

What’s more, the 27-year-old star has scored seven goals from 14 shots, ten of which were on target. If he hits the target, goalkeepers suffer. This is not the profile of a streak player or an inconsistent winger; this is the profile of a cold, precision finisher shaping matches with ruthless regularity.

Outperforming Europe’s elite: The statistical divide

With 26 goals in the past two seasons, Pulisic has surpassed other top wingers in Europe’s big five divisions, including Saka, Palmer, Foden, Kvaratskhelia, and Rodrygo, as per BeSoccer. This is the kind of number that typically belongs to pure strikers, not hybrid wide forwards. It is also the kind of stat that shifts a player’s reputation from “promising” to “elite.”

When comparing forwards from England, Spain, Germany, and Italy’s top clubs, Pulisic rises above names widely considered generational talents:

• Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
• Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
• Phil Foden (Manchester City)
• Rodrygo (Real Madrid)
• Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue (PSG)
• Nico Williams (Athletic Club)
• Cody Gakpo (Liverpool)

Each of these players is central to their club’s attack. Yet none have matched Pulisic’s productivity in Italy.

Following Gareth Bale’s arrival at Real Madrid in 2013, there were rumors about a tense rivalry between him and Cristiano Ronaldo for the team’s leadership. With several years on his departure, the Welshman decided to reveal key details about his relationship with the Portuguese star.

Although his tenure at Real Madrid was heavily criticized, Gareth Bale managed to write his name into the club’s history, playing a key role in winning several major titles. However, there were always rumors about a tense rivalry between the Welshman and Cristiano Ronaldo for the team’s leadership. Several years after his departure, Gareth revealed details about his relationship with the 40-year-old star.

In an interview with GQ magazine, Gareth Bale was asked if he stays in touch with any of his former teammates. He responded by mentioning Cristiano Ronaldo: “I’m not really in touch with that many – a few of the Wales boys – but I always got on with everybody. I never had any problems with anyone. I never had any big arguments. Sometimes the media might say about me and (Cristiano) Ronaldo, we never had an issue, never had an argument, never had a fight, never had anything.”

While Cristiano Ronaldo often emerged as a vocal leader, Gareth Bale preferred to let his performances on the pitch speak for him. Both stars complemented each other exceptionally well, combining for 41 goal contributions. This partnership made the Portuguese star the teammate with whom the Welsh was most productive throughout his career. Together, their iconic attacking unit delivered five Champions League titles to Real Madrid, leaving a lasting mark.

Not only does Bale deny having a bad relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo, but he also places him above Lionel Messi. In an interview with The Mirror in 2023, the Welshman explained, “Personally, I would say Cristiano Ronaldo. He brings the complete package. He is strong, powerful, fast, can head the ball, and strike it well. Obviously you can’t say anything bad about Messi, but in terms of the complete soccer player, I would say Cristiano Ronaldo.”

Not injury-related: Bale confesses the surprising reason for early-retirement

After leaving Real Madrid in 2020 on loan to Tottenham, Gareth Bale managed to show a clear improvement in his level of play. However, he was unable to establish himself as a starter, although he scored 16 goals and provided three assists. Then, the Welshman left as a free agent to Los Angeles FC, where he failed to shine and surprised everyone by retiring in 2023. Now, he has revealed the reason that led him to retire—and it was not due to injuries.

According to Mike Christensen in GQ magazine, Gareth Bale confessed that although injuries played a big part in his retirement, this was not the main reason. The Welshman’s father got ill in 2023, and this was a key factor in his decision to retire at the age of 33. He added: “People don’t know what anyone’s going through at home but I soon realised there’s more to life than just soccer.”

Even if Bale decided to step away from the soccer world for a while, he has gradually returned, appearing at FIFA events and others. He is even a regular contributor for TNT Sports, as well as CBS Golazo, where he discusses current soccer topics and shows that he remains engaged with the sport. However, he has not yet chosen to take on another role within the sport, leaving a clear gap.

With his goal against Galatasaray, Folarin Balogun has reached an historic USMNT Champions League goalscoring record not even Christian Pulisic was able to claim.

Folarin Balogun became AS Monaco’s hero on Tuesday against Galatasaray, as the former Arsenal striker scored the lone goal to lift the French side in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League table. Beyond securing the three points, Balogun also reached a historic USMNT milestone in the competition that even Christian Pulisic never managed to hit.

Monaco were one of the teams featured on Matchday 6 of the current Champions League, taking on a Galatasaray side that had already earned impressive wins over Liverpool and Ajax. After Denis Zakaria missed a penalty in the 50th minute, Balogun pounced on a rebound in the box off a corner to score in the 68th minute, delivering the decisive strike and etching his name into USMNT history.

With his goal against Galatasaray, Folarin Balogun became the first USMNT player ever to score in three straight UEFA Champions League matches. The striker previously found the net in the 1-0 win over FK Bodø/Glimt and again in the 2-2 draw against Pafos FC, completing the record-setting streak on Tuesday against the Turkish club.

USMNT players have taken on increasingly prominent roles in Europe in recent years, particularly in the Champions League, where Timothy Weah also became just the second American to score against Real Madrid after Pulisic. Now, with Balogun’s stellar form, he extends that trend, helping push Monaco to 18th place with nine points and a spot in the playoff round.

Christian Pulisic and multiple times on the edge of history

More than a decade after he arrived at Borussia Dortmund and broke into European soccer, Pulisic remains the most influential USMNT representative in the Champions League. In addition to being the American with the most appearances in the competition at 63, he also leads all USMNT players with 12 goals.

Pulisic never managed the streak Balogun just set, but he came close on several occasions. During his Chelsea tenure, he scored in both legs of the 2021–22 round of 16 matchup against Lille, playing a key role in sending the club through. However, he was unable to find a third straight goal in the next round against Real Madrid.

Another brief scoring run came after his move to AC Milan, though across different editions. Pulisic scored in Milan’s final match of the 2023–24 campaign against Newcastle United, then found the net again in the opening match of the 2024–25 tournament against Liverpool. That streak also ended at two, this time across two different seasons.

Cruzeiro will face Corinthians in the first leg of the 2025 Copa do Brasil semifinal. Fans in the United States can follow every moment of the matchup, with complete kickoff details and broadcast information provided for both television and streaming platforms.

Match Overview

As the Brazilian calendar nears its conclusion, the Copa do Brasil semifinal puts the spotlight on a must-see clash between two historic clubs meeting at very different moments. Cruzeiro arrive with confidence after one of the league’s strongest performances, locking up a third-place finish with 70 points and earning a return to the Copa Libertadores, a resume that has many viewing them as the team to beat.

Corinthians, however, refuse to be counted out; their 2025 campaign has been inconsistent, but flashes of top-level form and a proven ability to rise in big games make them a dangerous opponent with everything to gain. With silverware, pride, and momentum on the line, this semifinal has all the ingredients of a classic—make sure you’re tuned in and don’t miss a second of the action.

In the middle of his conflict with Liverpool, Mohamed Salah received unexpected advice from Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber regarding Lionel Messi.

During the last few weeks, the soccer world has closely followed Mohamed Salah’s situation, as he remains locked in a conflict with head coach Arne Slot that casts doubt over his future with Liverpool. In that context, Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber spoke about the possibility that the Egyptian winger could follow in Lionel Messi’s footsteps.

Speaking to the media after presenting the Argentine forward with the 2025 MVP award, Garber was asked about Salah’s situation and the chances of seeing him in United States soccer in the near future. “I’ve seen some rumors about Mo Salah,” the commissioner acknowledged, before striking a cautious tone.

“We very much believe in the sanctity of a contract. That’s an American business dynamic that might not be as thoughtful in the rest of the world,” explained Garber. “Mo’s under contract to Liverpool, people we know, and it’s a great team.”

However, the MLS executive later entertained the possibility of having Salah in the league, making clear what it would mean to add a star of that caliber. “Obviously, if he ever decides he wants to come to Major League Soccer, we welcome him with open arms,” Garber said.

And finally, he even went on to suggest that Salah should speak with Lionel Messi about his experience in MLS. “I would say that he should reach out to Leo and reach out to Thomas Muller, and see how happy they’ve been and how successful they’ve been, and how much they’ve really embraced being in Major League Soccer,” said Garber.

Another superstar to MLS?

Mohamed Salah was not the only player Don Garber was asked about during Tuesday’s press conference. Sergio Ramos also came up in the conversation, considering his imminent departure from Monterrey of Mexico and the rumors about his future, including speculation about a possible move to MLS.

“Ramos is an unbelievable player. Seeing him playing against us in the Leagues Cup and the Champions Cup is frustrating,” Don Garber admitted, drawing laughter from the reporters in attendance. However, the MLS commissioner then made it clear that the rumors, at least for now, are nothing more than that. “I don’t know, I haven’t heard anything about it.”

More and more stars choose MLS

While several big-name players have arrived in MLS over the past decades—such as David Beckham, Thierry Henry, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic—the arrival of Lionel Messi to Inter Miami in 2023 accelerated that trend, opening the door for more and more stars to join the league.

The Herons counted for two years on Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suarez, and added a reigning World Cup champion in Rodrigo De Paul just a few months ago. Vancouver Whitecaps raised their level with the arrival of Thomas Muller, while Los Angeles FC enjoy the brilliance of Son Heung-min.

In this context, the arrival of a player of Mohamed Salah’s stature does not seem impossible, even though current rumors link him more strongly to the Saudi Pro League than to MLS. The case of Sergio Ramos, considering his age and recent circumstances, might be somewhat more likely.

Due to his imposing level, Harry Kane’s future has been a very controversial topic, as his reduced release clause has drawn strong interest from Barcelona. In light of this, the Englishman has already reportedly made a final decision regarding his future at Bayern Munich.

Bayern Munich have established themselves as one of the best teams in the world, maintaining a dominant style of play with consistent results. Coach Vincent Kompany managed to navigate through injuries, putting together a fairly solid lineup. Harry Kane has become the team’s leader, shining as a goal scorer. Given his low release clause, the Englishman has reportedly caught the attention of Barcelona and has already made a decision about his future.

Harry Kane reportedly had been considered one of Barcelona’s main targets, as they are looking for a potential replacement for Robert Lewandowski. Even though his signing could have been complex, the Englishman holds a release clause valued at $74.8 million in January 2026, putting his future up in the air. However, Christian Falk reports that the 32-year-old striker has decided not to leave the German team, rejecting a move to the Culers.

Kane not only decided to stay with Bayern Munich but is also expected to discuss a contract renewal. With his impressive performances, the German team has agreed to hold talks with the English striker in January 2026, when his release clause expires. With his current deal ending in 2027, Harry will likely sign a one-year extension to continue etching his name in the team’s history as he chases to win more titles in his tenure.

Harry Kane leads a fast-growing project at Bayern Munich

Far from economics being the decisive factor, Harry Kane remains motivated to continue at Bayern Munich because of the promising sporting project. Vincent Kompany has elevated this project to a new level, implementing a style that disorients opponents. Additionally, the arrival of Luis Díaz and the impressive performances by Josip Stanišić and Konrad Laimer have helped keep the team’s losses to a minimum this season.

Not only does the team’s impressive level maintain Harry Kane’s interest, but the 32-year-old star also serves as the cornerstone of this sporting project. Since his arrival at Bayern Munich in 2023, he has played 119 games, scoring 113 goals and providing 29 assists. Moreover, the Englishman significantly influences the team’s build-up play, with his importance extending far beyond mere statistics.

Not only Kane: Bayern Munich expected to close key contract renewal

While Harry Kane’s future with Bayern Munich looks promising, the club is focusing on securing another crucial renewal. Dayot Upamecano, whose contract expires in June 2026, seems likely to extend his stay with the German team. According to Christian Falk, the front office is optimistic about renewing the center-back’s contract, thanks in part to his strong relationship with Vincent Kompany and his desire to continue working with him.

The storm surrounding Mohamed Salah and his fractured relationship with Liverpool has intensified just days before the forward departs for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), creating a collision of club crisis and national unity.

The storm surrounding Mohamed Salah and his fractured relationship with Liverpool has intensified just days before the forward departs for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), creating a collision of club crisis and national unity. What began as a shock post-match outburst at Elland Road has now spiraled into a saga watched closely across England and Egypt — a saga deepened further after the Pharaohs’ head coach issued a heartfelt seven-word declaration.

The combination of deteriorating form, a humiliating league position, and a seismic break in trust has left Liverpool in the most precarious moment of its season — and Salah at the center of a storm he did not expect in the twilight of his storied career. The 33-year-old’s frustration broke into public view after Liverpool’s chaotic 3-3 draw with Leeds, where he sat unused on the bench for the third consecutive match. For a player who has defined an era at Anfield, the message was unmistakable — and painfully personal.

“I’m very, very disappointed to be fair,” Salah told reporters, as relayed in post-match coverage. “I have done so much for this club down the years… Now I’m sitting on the bench, and I don’t know why. It seems like the club has thrown me under the bus.” Those remarks were met with silence from the club hierarchy but plenty of noise from pundits. Former Reds defender Jamie Carragher labelled the comments a “disgrace,” while Wayne Rooney suggested the Egyptian was “destroying his legacy.”

Behind the scenes, tensions grew. Salah also suggested that promises made in the summer were not kept, hinting at a breakdown in trust with manager Arne Slot. “I got a lot of promises in the summer… and now I’m on the bench,” he said. The fallout was immediate: Liverpool omitted its all-time Premier League top scorer from the squad that traveled to face Inter in the Champions League — a clear escalation in the conflict.

Egypt steps in: Teammates and coach show open support as AFCON looms

While Liverpool wrestles with internal discord, Egypt’s national team has moved firmly in the opposite direction — rallying around their captain with unity and affection. Striker Ahmed “Kouka” Hassan spoke for many players when he defended Salah publicly. “Players like him do not get benched,” Kouka wrote on social media. “Mo is not just a teammate; he’s a leader, a legend for club and country… Moments like this pass; what stays is your greatness.”

Winger Zizo posted simply: “Liverpool’s greatest legend of all time.” What’s more, goalkeeper Mohamed Sobhy added: “Always the best.” And then came the seven-word message from head coach Hossam Hassan: “Always a symbol of determination and strength.” Those words hit differently — not just a statement of support, but a reaffirmation of what Salah represents to a nation preparing for another continental campaign.

Barcelona fought back at Camp Nou to secure a crucial win, and along the way, Lamine Yamal produced a milestone moment that pushed Kylian Mbappe aside in the competition’s history — a detail that becomes even more striking upon closer review.

The Champions League loves a prodigy, and on a tense night at Camp Nou, Lamine Yamal showed once again why European soccer is increasingly being shaped by his left foot. Barcelona fought back at Camp Nou to secure a crucial win, and along the way, Lamine Yamal produced a milestone moment that pushed Kylian Mbappe aside in the competition’s history — a detail that becomes even more striking upon closer review.

The Catalans did not stroll to victory; the match demanded resilience. Eintracht Frankfurt struck first through Ansgar Knauff, unsettling a Camp Nou crowd already aware of how much the club needed the points. But Hansi Flick’s side responded in the second half with purpose, clarity, and their usual reliance on youth.

Two headers from Jules Kounde completed the turnaround, with both Marcus Rashford and Lamine Yamal supplying the assists. The decisive moment, however, belonged unmistakably to the teenager. His curling cross for Kounde’s winner did more than unlock the match—it unlocked history.

Yamal’s assist had pushed him into territory no teenager in Champions League history had ever reached. With 14 direct goal involvements (seven goals and seven assists), Lamine Yamal broke Kylian Mbappe’s 2017 record of 13 and became the youngest player to achieve this feat in UEFA Champions League history. At just 18 years and 148 days old, Yamal now stands alone.

This is not a marginal statistic; this is an era-defining shift. Mbappe’s teenage mythology in Europe—once considered untouchable—is beginning to be rewritten by a Barcelona forward who is still months away from his 19th birthday.

All-time teenage UEFA Champions League involvement list

There was one drawback. Yamal picked up his third booking of the competition, triggering a one-match suspension for Barcelona’s next Champions League outing against Slavia Prague. Flick acknowledged the frustration but insisted protection was necessary.

Still, suspension or not, the momentum of this campaign is clearly his. He continues to set standards that once belonged to global superstars such as Mbappe, Raul, and Bellingham. The updated all-time teenage Champions League involvement list confirms the changing of an era:

1. Lamine Yamal: 14
2. Kylian Mbappe: 13
3. Raul: 7
4. Jude Bellingham: 6
5. Rodrygo: 6
6. Theo Walcott: 6

The gap between first and second place feels symbolic: a Barcelona teenager overtaking a Real Madrid superstar as the defining face of European youth production.

Lionel Messi is already watching Inter Miami’s roster take shape ahead of the 2026 MLS season, and now three of his teammates are set to depart before the new campaign.

Lionel Messi capped the 2025 season by leading Inter Miami to the MLS Cup, but the front office is already shifting focus toward strengthening the squad for next year. Starting internally, three of Messi’s teammates will now have to look for new clubs ahead of the upcoming campaign.

The retirements of Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba open the door for Inter Miami to pursue another high-profile signing, with Messi and Rodrigo De Paul occupying the Designated Player slots. Still, before any major additions are announced, several players will be moving on from Fort Lauderdale.

With MLS releasing the Eligible Player Lists for Offseason Roster Mechanisms, Fafa Picault, Ryan Sailor, and Allen Obando are the three Inter Miami players set to be offloaded. Picault and Sailor have contracts expiring in December 2025, while the Ecuadorian forward has been included in the End-of-Year Waivers.

Picault logged the most minutes of the trio, appearing in 28 matches and scoring four goals, but with Tadeo Allende and Mateo Silvetti earning starting roles through stronger performances, the veteran winger’s importance in the squad diminished. Sailor, meanwhile, played just 184 minutes across six matches, serving mostly as an unused substitute.

Obando’s case is more complicated, as the 19-year-old arrived as a promising long-term prospect, but inconsistent performances and physical setbacks pushed him out of the rotation. He managed only seven appearances and two goals since joining in March, falling out of favor with both the coaching staff and the front office.

As a result, Obando is the lone Inter Miami player listed in MLS’s End-of-Year Waivers, with San Jose holding the first pick and Miami selecting 30th in each round. Clubs will have until Thursday to submit a claim, with Obando hoping to land a fresh opportunity as the Herons turn to reinforcing the squad for their 2026 title defense.

Three Inter Miami players still up in the air

Picault, Sailor, and Obando appear set to depart Messi’s team, but several other roster decisions remain unresolved—aside from the situation surrounding star striker Luis Suárez—particularly involving three Argentine players.

Inter Miami’s Marcelo Weigandt, Rocco Ríos-Novo, and Óscar Ustari were listed in Stage 1 of the Re-Entry Process. Weigandt and Ríos-Novo have loan deals expiring, and it remains unclear whether the club will attempt to secure their permanent transfers. Ustari is out of contract as well, raising further questions as Miami risk losing two of their most-used goalkeepers from the 2025 season.

Real Madrid and Manchester City face off in an important match in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League.

The league phase of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League is approaching its decisive stage. After this week, only two matches remain for each team, making every point crucial for determining which clubs will advance. In this context, the clash between Real Madrid and Manchester City stands out as one of the most attractive fixtures.

At the moment, Los Blancos are one of the eight teams in the direct qualification zone for the Round of 16. They have earned 12 of the 15 points available, with four wins and only one defeat against Liverpool. That’s why they know that a victory would almost guarantee their passage to the next phase.

However, Real Madrid are not free from pressure. Despite the team’s strong performance in the Champions League, some poor results in La Liga and rumors of internal conflicts have put head coach Xabi Alonso in a delicate situation, to the point that Wednesday’s match could be decisive for his future.

On the other side is Manchester City. They have had an irregular performance in the group stage, with three wins, one draw, and one defeat, which currently places them 12th in the standings, in the playoff zone. To improve their position and aim for direct qualification to the Round of 16, the Citizens will need a victory at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

Cofirmed Real Madrid lineup

Amid a tense atmosphere, Xabi Alonso has faced a difficult week due to physical problems affecting several key players in the squad. Kylian Mbappe experienced muscle issues that prevented him from training normally, so he will be on the bench. On the other hand, players such as Eduardo Camavinga, Dean Huijsen, Daniel Carvajal, Eder Militao, and Trent Alexander-Arnold were left out of the squad.

The Real Madrid lineup to face Manchester City is: Thibaut Courtois; Federico Valverde, Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, Alvaro Carreras; Aurelien Tchouameni, Dani Ceballos, Jude Bellingham; Vinicius Junior, Gonzalo Garcia, Rodrygo.

Confirmed Manchester City lineup

Xabi Alonso’s problems are not shared by Pep Guardiola. The Manchester City coach has practically his entire squad available for the match at the Santiago Bernabeu, with a few exceptions such as Mateo Kovacic.

Consequently, the Manchester City lineup to visit Real Madrid is: Gianluigi Donnarumma; Matheus Nunes, Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, Nico O’Reilly; Nico Gonzalez, Bernardo Silva; Phil Foden, Rayan Cherki, Erling Haaland, Jeremy Doku.

The spotlight shines fiercely on Kylian Mbappe as Real Madrid enter one of their most consequential Champions League nights of the season, hosting Manchester City at a tense Santiago Bernabeu.

The spotlight shines fiercely on Kylian Mbappe as Real Madrid enter one of their most consequential Champions League nights of the season, hosting Manchester City at a tense Santiago Bernabeu. And yet, for all the noise surrounding the French superstar, Mbappe will not start the match — a decision that unsettles a squad already dealing with turbulence on and off the pitch.

For Madrid, a club navigating internal pressure, injury chaos, and Champions League stakes, this development is seismic. Manchester City arrives confident, organized, and dangerous, and the absence of their opponent’s most prolific forward changes the dynamics completely.

Los Blancos currently sit at a crossroads: a team battling form, facing an opponent of the Citizens’ caliber, and relying heavily on moments of individual brilliance to stay afloat. With Mbappe unavailable to start, the responsibility shifts to figures like Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham, who now carry Real Madrid’s creative and goalscoring weight against Europe’s deadliest attacking machine.

Defining Champions League night under crisis

The fixture marks the 15th Champions League meeting between Real Madrid and Manchester City, making it the competition’s most frequent showdown of the modern era. But this one arrives shrouded in tension.

Real Madrid enters the match battered. The 2-0 collapse at home to Celta Vigo over the weekend — complete with missed chances, defensive implosions, and multiple red cards — exposed every fault line in Xabi Alonso’s fragile project. The team has won just two of its last seven matches, sits four points behind Barcelona in La Liga, and remains under intense scrutiny from media and club executives alike.

In contrast, Manchester City arrives with momentum. After three straight Premier League wins, Pep Guardiola’s side travels to Spain boosted by the relentless form of Erling Haaland, whose goals continue to bury opponents with terrifying efficiency. And yet, despite the difference in form, Madrid still holds the Bernabeu — a place where they have scored in 38 consecutive Champions League home games and historically summon nights of improbable survival. But usually, those miracles involve their brightest star at full strength. Tonight, that star is not starting.

The reason behind Mbappe’s absence from the starting XI

Kylian Mbappe is not starting because he is not fit enough to do so, despite being included in the squad. The Frenchman suffered muscle discomfort in his left leg and a knee issue during the defeat to Celta Vigo, injuries serious enough to keep him from Tuesday’s full training session.

“Mbappe has been named in the matchday squad, but he is not fit to start,” reported journalist Jose Luis Sanchez, confirming Madrid’s worst fears. The club views the situation delicately: Mbappe has 25 goals in 21 matches, leads both La Liga and the Champions League in scoring, and remains indispensable to the team’s attacking identity. But overplaying him now risks aggravating the injury at a decisive stage of the season.

The 26-year-old star’s absence is only the tip of the iceberg. The Spanish side is without six defenders, including Eder Militao, Dani Carvajal, Trent Alexander-Arnold, David Alaba, Ferland Mendy, and Dean Huijsen. Eduardo Camavinga is also out, leaving the squad thin and tactically stretched.

Gareth Bale cemented his status as a Real Madrid legend, racking up an impressive number of goals and playing key roles in numerous title victories. However, a wave of criticism significantly tarnished his legacy, but the Welshman decided to break his silence and address these rumors.

After arriving on a multi-million dollar transfer, Gareth Bale established himself as one of Real Madrid‘s most important players alongside Cristiano Ronaldo. Along with the Portuguese star and Karim Benzema, the Welshman left a historic legacy at the club, playing a key role in winning several titles. However, he faced harsh criticism for his constant injuries, which were blamed on his lack of focus on soccer. Now, he decided to break the silence and give his perspective.

In his recent interview with GQ magazine, Gareth Bale was asked about the wave of criticism he received at Real Madrid for playing golf. In response, he said, “I actually never used to play golf that much, but because people believe what they read, they created a character that I’m not. I was probably guilty of not defending myself and in some ways I was slightly naive, that is probably the correct word, about going to Madrid and not knowing the severity.”

Even though Gareth left a significant legacy at Real Madrid due to his impact in crucial moments, the Welshman faced heavy criticism for his injuries, which the media attributed to his golf playing. The Spanish press often linked his physical issues to an alleged lack of focus on soccer, implying a lack of professionalism. These reports turned Bale into a heavily criticized figure among Madrid fans, as he never addressed the rumors—something he now regrets.

Gareth Bale’s tenure at Real Madrid was wrecked by injuries

With his privileged physique, Gareth Bale promised to revolutionize Real Madrid’s attack. However, injuries were already a worrying trend at Tottenham Hotspur, with him missing a good number of games almost every season. Far from changing that reality in Spain, the Welshman missed 142 games during his seven years with Los Blancos, suffering severe physical problems that hindered his development within the team.

Although Cristiano Ronaldo also endured significant injuries during his time at Real Madrid, his absences didn’t approach the number experienced by Bale. Over nine years with the club, the Portuguese star missed 44 games, highlighting a clear disparity between the two players. However, the Welshman asserted that his injury woes weren’t due to a lack of professionalism or off-the-pitch issues, as the press never exposed him with evidence, unlike other players.

Gareth Bale secured his spot as a Real Madrid legend

Although injuries constantly attacked his development, Gareth Bale managed to write a great legacy at Real Madrid that propelled him to legendary status. After playing 258 games, he scored 106 goals and recorded 68 assists. In addition, he won five Champions League titles, three LaLiga titles, three UEFA Super Cups, three Club World Cups, one Copa del Rey, and one Spanish Super Cup, being a key figure in most of those victories.

While Real Madrid fans may see him as a divisive figure, Gareth Bale succeeded in cementing his name in the club’s history. Alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, they formed the ‘BBC’ attacking trio that defined an era at the club. Moreover, he consistently stepped up in finals and key moments, leading to various titles during his seven years with the team.

Independiente del Valle will take on LDU Quito on Matchday 3 of the 2025 Ecuadorian LigaPro Serie A final stage. Supporters in the United States can catch every moment, find here the complete kickoff details and broadcast information for television and streaming options.

Match Overview

With postseason implications looming, Liga de Quito step into a pressure-packed matchup against league champions Independiente del Valle in a contest that still carries major consequences at the top of the table. Independiente may have already wrapped up the title, but they’ll be eager to finish the campaign strong, while Liga arrive with far more at stake.

Currently in second place with 65 points and just one point clear of Barcelona, Liga know three points here could create critical separation in the battle for the final automatic spot in the Copa Libertadores group stage. As the season reaches its decisive stretch, every possession matters, making this clash one of the weekend’s most compelling fixtures—make sure you don’t miss a minute of the action.

The uncertain atmosphere surrounding Real Madrid has reached a new level of intensity as Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham prepare for a Champions League night defined as much by tension as by soccer.

The uncertain atmosphere surrounding Real Madrid has reached a new level of intensity as Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham prepare for a Champions League night defined as much by tension as by soccer. What should have been a straightforward buildup to a heavyweight European clash has instead become a referendum on a manager under fire, with whispers around Valdebebas hinting at doubts, divisions, and decisive choices on Xabi Alonso’s future yet to be made.

What is unfolding in Madrid isn’t a short-term wobble—it’s a structural tremor. Weeks of poor performances, internal disagreements, and a fractured dressing room have created a climate that even seasoned Real Madrid managers would struggle to survive.

The weekend’s 2-0 defeat to Celta Vigo intensified scrutiny, exposing tactical uncertainty and, most worryingly, a drop in intensity on the pitch. Midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni did not sugarcoat it afterward, admitting: “It’s not the coach’s fault, we lack intensity.” His words signaled more than frustration—they offered an uncomfortable truth about a group no longer moving in unison.

Inside the club, doubts about Xabi Alonso have grown. Meetings were held late into the night after the Celta loss, with Florentino Perez weighing the option of dismissing the coach immediately. For a president known for protecting his managers recently, that consideration alone is telling.

Reports emerging from the Spanish press have painted a picture of a squad divided: players unhappy with their roles, the medical department questioned for a surge in muscular injuries, and confusion over whether Alonso is too strict, too soft, or simply unable to adapt to Madrid’s star-heavy dressing room. One thing is certain: the pressure is unprecedented.

What’s Real Madrid’s reported internal verdict?

Unless Real Madrid suffers a disastrous streak before the Copa del Rey in January, Xabi Alonso will remain in command, according to club internal discussions. According to Diario AS, the club will not sack Alonso even if Madrid loses to Manchester City in this Champions League clash. The decision provides a temporary lifeline, but it is hardly a vote of full confidence. As the report puts it: “Unless Real Madrid goes on a very bad run between December and January, Alonso will not be sacked.”

But that stability is fragile. The same report clarifies that if Madrid falls to City, “Alonso’s fate will be 90% sealed.” This echoes what happened to Carlo Ancelotti, whose future was effectively decided after the heavy loss to Arsenal in Europe. Thus, the club’s decision is less a shield and more a deadline—a final, narrowing corridor through which Alonso must navigate without stumbling.

AC Milan have firmly established themselves as one of Italy’s top teams, spearheaded by Christian Pulisic. However, the Rossoneri face uncertainty with Mike Maignan’s future. Consequently, they are now targeting a Champions League and Premier League-winning goalkeeper.

Despite the constant injury problems, AC Milan have managed to establish themselves as one of the best teams in Italy. With the impact of Christian Pulisic, they have managed to remain leaders of Serie A. However, the Rossoneri are facing a dilemma because Mike Maignan has not yet renewed his contract, which expires at the end of the 2025-26 season. In response to this, they are already targeting a Champions League and Premier League–winning goalkeeper.

Mike Maignan has firmly established himself as one of AC Milan’s most transformative players alongside Christian Pulisic. The Rossoneri have prioritized his contract renewal, reportedly offering a proposed salary of €5 million per season (approximately $5.82 million). However, he is reportedly seeking €8 million (around $9.31 million), creating a challenge. With his potential departure as a free agent, the team has supposedly targeted an experienced goalkeeper.

According to Sacha Tavolieri in Sky Sports, AC Milan have set their sights on Liverpool’s Alisson Becker, who has a contract until 2027. Even though he is 33 years old, he has managed to remain a key figure for the team, drawing the attention of the Italian club. However, the recent signing of Giorgi Mamardashvili could facilitate his arrival, as the Reds could bet on his youth, while the Rossoneri consider the Brazilian a key player to maintain the team’s consistency.

Even though Alisson would be a great addition, Coach Allegri is still pushing to keep Mike Maignan. At the press conference on November 27, he said, “Mike has always been one of the strongest goalkeepers around. I am not surprised by his performances. Regarding the contract, the club handles it. They are working to give this team stability for the coming years.” Joining the coach, fans are urging the front office to bet on the French star due to his impressive impact.

Mike Maignan is not only one of AC Milan’s best players but also one of the most important leaders in the locker room, yet the financial differences mean the Italian club has little hope of securing his continuity. However, the Rossoneri are reportedly willing to make one last financial effort to secure the renewal in the upcoming weeks, but they still hold their sight on Alisson Becker and another surprising goalkeeper.

Not only Alisson: AC Milan reportedly target another Brazilian star

AC Milan appear to have their priorities clear in goal, as Mike Maignan’s renewal seems to be the main objective. However, the financial differences and the Frenchman’s limited time left on his contract make Alisson Becker emerge as a clear option to join the team, but his contract until 2027 could complicate the negotiation. In light of this, the Rossoneri have set their sights on a Brazilian goalkeeper who does not play in European leagues.

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Corinthians’ goalkeeper Hugo Souza from the Brasileirao has become a potential option for AC Milan. While his name may not yet resonate in Europe, he recently received a call-up from Carlo Ancelotti for the Brazilian national team and appears set to compete in the 2026 World Cup. At just 26 years old, he stands out as a promising prospect, with a reported value of €12 million (approximately $14 million).

The draw of the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup was made on Tuesday, and now Lionel Messi's Inter Miami know their potential rivals in the competition.

Lionel Messi wrapped up a spectacular 2025 season with Inter Miami after lifting the MLS Cup last Saturday, building even more anticipation for the club’s next major objective: the CONCACAF Champions Cup. With the draw now finalized, the Herons know their potential opponents for the continental tournament.

Since Messi’s arrival in 2023, Inter Miami have entered nearly every competition as title contenders, but the Champions Cup remains the one trophy that has slipped through the Argentine’s grasp. Following Tuesday night’s draw, Miami’s potential path for another run at the intercontinental crown has been unveiled.

Inter Miami will face the winner of the matchup between MLS side Nashville SC and Canadian outfit Atlético Ottawa in the Round of 16. The Herons had already secured their place in the tournament, but by winning the MLS Cup, they earned the privilege of bypassing the opening round and will now wait to see who emerges from the first-round series.

Several other teams also earned direct entry into the Champions Cup’s Round of 16. One of them is the Seattle Sounders, who qualified by winning the 2025 Leagues Cup, ironically defeating Inter Miami in the final. The other automatic qualifiers are Caribbean Cup champions Mount Pleasant and Copa Centroamericana winners Deportivo Alajuelense.

If Inter Miami advance, they could potentially meet Mexican giants Club América, setting up a possible repeat of 2025’s heated preseason clash that involved Messi and opposing fans. With such a challenging road to the final—and after falling to the Vancouver Whitecaps in last season’s semifinals—Messi and company will be determined to make an even deeper run.

Champions Cup the top priority for Inter Miami

After winning the Leagues Cup in 2023, the Supporters’ Shield in 2024, and now the MLS Cup in 2025, Inter Miami have collected the most significant domestic trophies. Still, with Messi under contract through 2028, the club is intent on continuing its ascent, with the next step being the most prestigious club title in the CONCACAF region.

Speaking to reporters before the MLS Cup final, Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas discussed the club’s plans to replace departing stars Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, while also making clear the organization’s ambitions for next season: “The club’s goal for 2026 is to win the Champions Cup, and of course I want to go in with a fully loaded starting XI.”

Inter Miami will open their 2026 campaign on February 21 on the road against Son Heung-min’s LAFC, with the Champions Cup Round of 16 first leg scheduled between March 10–12 and the second leg between March 17–19. No matter whether Nashville or Atlético Ottawa advance, Messi is expected to feature in those matches as Inter Miami debut the newly built Miami Freedom Park.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored the first goal for Al Nassr against Al Wahda in a friendly game.

Al Nassr are facing Al Wahda in a friendly on Wednesday. There, Cristiano Ronaldo appeared as usual to score the opener for his team with a precise right-footed finish following a well-executed team move.

The Saudi Pro League is currently on a break. Al Nassr played their last match in the league on November 23, when they defeated Al Khaleej 3-1, and they will not return to action there until December 21, when they face Al-Najma Saudi on Matchday 10.

That gives the team nearly a month to rest and focus on training under coach Jorge Jesus. Wednesday’s friendly is a great opportunity to maintain competitive rhythm against a team like Al Wahda, which is currently in second place in the UAE Pro League standings.

Aware of the value of this opportunity, the coach decided to field most of the squad’s stars. In addition to Cristiano Ronaldo, the starting lineup includes Kingsley Coman, Joao Felix, Marcelo Brozovic, and Inigo Martinez.

It just had to be him.

The GOAT puts Al Nassr ahead.

pic.twitter.com/Rife3FUFkH

— Al Nassr Zone (@TheNassrZone) December 10, 2025

Cristiano Ronaldo scores the opener

It took just 12 minutes for Al Nassr to open the scoring against Al Wahda. Earlier, Cristiano Ronaldo had come close with a shot that was blocked inside the box, but following a corner from Marcelo Brozovic that included a beautiful combination between Coman and Sultan, CR7 finished with a precise right-footed strike that left the opposing goalkeeper with no chance.

Al Wahda, however, put up resistance and reached the equalizer just ten minutes later through Fakoundo. Kingsley Coman restored Al Nassr’s lead in the 30th minute with an impressive strike, but Dusan Tadic once again leveled the score moments later from the penalty spot.

What a goal from Kingsley Coman.

pic.twitter.com/uEYpk7KV3Q

— Al Nassr Zone (@TheNassrZone) December 10, 2025

Al Nassr’s upcoming challenges

Beyond Wednesday’s friendly against Al Wahda, Al Nassr are focused on the challenges ahead. Official competition resumes on Sunday, December 21, when they face Al-Najma Saudi in the Saudi Pro League. Just three days later, they will close out their participation in the opening round of the AFC Champions League Two, taking on Al Zawraa.

Real Madrid play against Manchester City in league stage Matchday 6 of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League. Here you can find the kickoff times, along with details on where to watch the match on TV or through streaming platforms in the United States.

Match Overview

Riding the momentum of a thrilling 4–3 result last time out, Real Madrid arrive at Matchday 6 firmly in control of their UEFA Champions League campaign, sitting on 12 points after four wins from five outings and holding down one of the coveted automatic Round of 16 positions.

With Mbappe leading a high-powered attack, Los Blancos aim to remain in the top eight, but the challenge ramps up significantly against Manchester City, a heavyweight opponent currently on 10 points and narrowly outside the direct qualification spots, adding extra urgency to an already marquee matchup.

Club Brugge will host Arsenal on the league stage Matchday 6 of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League. Here’s everything you need to know about kickoff times and how to watch the match on TV or through streaming options in the United States.

Match Overview

Arsenal turn their attention back to the UEFA Champions League with an opportunity to steady the ship after a rocky stretch in domestic play, entering this matchup in full control of their group thanks to a dominant win over Bayern Munich that extended their perfect run to five victories.

Riding that confidence, the Gunners receive a Club Brugge squad fighting for survival after a grueling run of matches left them short on points, with the margin for error gone as the league phase nears its conclusion and European hopes hang in the balance.

Athletic Club will clash with PSG on the league stage Matchday 6 of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League. Here’s everything you need to know about kickoff times and how to watch the match on TV or through streaming options in the United States.

Match Overview

Paris Saint-Germain arrive in northern Spain carrying both momentum and urgency as the reigning Champions League winners continue to assert control in the group stage, having already stacked up 12 points from their first five outings.

With knockout qualification inching closer, the French giants know that another strong performance away from home would further separate them from the pack, but Athletic Club have everything on the line after a sluggish start left them with just four points and little margin for error.

After securing a crucial victory against Inter Milan, Arne Slot solidified his standing at Liverpool amid rumors of his departure. Taking advantage of the situation, the coach did not dismiss the possibility of Mohamed Salah's return, but he hints a key condition for it to happen.

Despite immense pressure, Arne Slot secured a crucial victory for Liverpool against Inter Milan in the Champions League. Unlike in previous matches, the Reds excelled defensively, strengthening their play from back to front. While they didn’t dominate offensively, Dominik Szoboszlai converted a penalty that secured the win. After the game, the coach hinted at a possible return for Mohamed Salah amid the ongoing drama, suggesting a key condition for this to happen.

At the post-game press conference vs Inter Milan, Liverpool coach Arne Slot was asked on Amazon Prime if he planned to speak with Salah in the coming days. He responded: “You say everyone makes mistakes in life, so the first thing should be, does the player think he’s made a mistake as well?…I haven’t said I’m not going to talk to him. And the next question is should the initiative come from me or from him. Now that’s another question to answer.”

Even though Slot did not say it directly, the coach implied that Salah needs to step forward and acknowledge his mistake. As a result, the Egyptian must decide whether to remain apart from Liverpool’s sporting project or reintegrate into the team. Furthermore, his return would benefit both sides: The 33-year-old veteran could prepare for the 2026 World Cup, and the Reds might regain their offensive spark, as Alexander Isak keeps raising doubts.

Arne Slot signals a tactical change in Liverpool that could rock Salah

After the departure of Luis Díaz, Arne Slot has shown clear intentions to modernize his lineup tactically at Liverpool. With the multimillion-dollar arrivals of Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak, the coach has decided to opt for an attack with two strikers, ending the traditional wide winger role that Mohamed Salah used to occupy. With this change, the Reds have managed to show improved offensive control, hinting at a positive effect.

Although Cody Gakpo remains a key player, the Dutchman tends to operate more as a second striker, which could allow him to adapt to a two-forward system alongside Isak or Ekitike. This is not the case with Salah, who needs space on the wing to perform at his best, meaning that his potential return to the team would require a role readaptation or could lead to a transfer to another club.

Slot may have not completely ruled out the possibility of using a traditional wide winger, but he no longer has several players with this profile in the squad. After the departure of Luis Díaz and the drama with Salah, only the young Rio Ngumoha remains as a left winger with dribbling and speed. Therefore, the move toward two central forwards seems to be the solution, giving the team a new direction in this new era.

Even though Cruz Azul haven't been in top form after getting eliminated in the semifinals of 2025 LigaMX, they have a great opportunity today to revert their current situation as they face Flamengo in the 2025 FIFA Derby of the Americas. Here are the confirmed lineups.

After winning the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup, Cruz Azul face Flamengo, winners of the 2025 Copa Libertadores, today in the 2025 FIFA Derby of the Americas. Although both teams have demonstrated great form, they arrive at different points in their season. While La Maquina have been recently eliminated in the semifinals of the 2025 Liga MX, Flamengo are riding high after a victory in the Brasileirao, where they were crowned the best team in South America.

Cruz Azul managed to surprise everyone by establishing as a dominant team. Coach Vicente García managed to impose formidable consistency, leading them to become champions of the Champions Cup. However, the front office decided to fire him to bet on Nicolás Larcamón, who managed to maintain great consistency, but they are coming off being eliminated in Liga MX. Nonetheless, Gabriel Fernandez and Angel Sepulveda can make the difference in today’s game.

Unlike La Maquina, Flamengo stand as the most dominant team in South America. With a stellar roster led by Giorgian De Arrascaeta and Jorge Carrascal, they have recently won both the Brasileirao and Copa Libertadores. Moreover, coach Filipe Luis has crafted a solid team with great defensive balance and a strong offense, making them the top favorites. However, they still need to demonstrate their physical capacity following their championship celebrations.

Far from being a regular game, the match between Cruz Azul and Flamengo carries significant stakes, as the winner will secure a spot in the playoffs of the FIFA International Cup 2025, where they will face Pyramids. Consequently, both teams are intensely focused on today’s game, which promises a fiercely competitive encounter.

Cruz Azul lineup vs. Flamengo

Ahead of today’s match against Flamengo, Cruz Azul arrive with three key absences: Kevin Mier, Jesús Orozco, and Andrés Montaño. However, coach Nicolás Larcamón maintains full confidence in Andrés Gudiño in goal, Willer Ditta in defense, and Gabriel Fernández in the attack. Their biggest challenge will be maintaining defensive consistency against the Brazilian team, which has one of the most imposing offenses on the continent.

With this in mind, Cruz Azul will lineup as follows:

ASÍ SALE LA MÁQUINA PARA EL DERBI DE LAS AMÉRICAS 🚂💙 pic.twitter.com/PBHmsd4LzM

— CRUZ AZUL (@CruzAzul) December 10, 2025

Flamengo lineup vs. Cruz Azul

Flamengo arrive at the match against Cruz Azul with the key players who propelled their impressive campaign under coach Filipe Luis. However, the Mengão will miss Pedro due to injury, while Allan Souza and Matías Viña are unavailable for personal reasons. Despite these absences, the team’s considerable squad depth ensures it remain resilient. Moreover, Giorgian De Arrascaeta will be a decisive factor in the match.

Considering this, Flamengo will lineup as follows:

NOSSO TIME É A GENTE EM CAMPO! Confira a #escalação do Flamengo para enfrentar o Cruz Azul, pelo Mundial! #FLAxCZA pic.twitter.com/cMslurBW9w

— FL4MEN9O (@Flamengo) December 10, 2025

Cruz Azul take on Flamengo in the 2025 FIFA Derby of the Americas. USA fans can find here the complete kickoff details and broadcast information for television and streaming options.

Match Overview

A headline-worthy showdown for international silverware is set to ignite as two continental powerhouses from opposite sides of the hemisphere collide in a must-see test of dominance. Fresh off a deep run in Liga MX and holding the CONCACAF title, Mexico’s Cruz Azul looks to cement its status with a statement victory against a Flamengo squad that has been the definition of elite football in 2025. This matchup pits the dynamic, tactical flair of North America’s best against the relentless, attacking might of South American champions.

The Brazilian giants enter this contest having already secured a historic double, locking up both the coveted Copa Libertadores and the domestic Brasileirão title. With unmatched momentum, Flamengo now has the opportunity to cap what could be one of the most memorable seasons in modern football history with yet another trophy. With pride, prestige, and continental bragging rights at stake, this intercontinental battle promises elite-level intensity and a definitive answer to the question of hemispheric superiority.

Lamine Yamal reacted with a clear discomfort after being subbed off against Eintracht Frankfurt in the UEFA Champions League, and head coach Hansi Flick set the record straight on the FC Barcelona star's reaction.

Lamine Yamal was one of the standouts in FC Barcelona’s 2-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt, not only for his performance on the field but also for his frustrated reaction after being subbed off. Following the final whistle, head coach Hansi Flick addressed the 18-year-old’s response during the UEFA Champions League match.

After conceding the opening goal in the 21st minute, Barcelona had to mount a comeback to avoid jeopardizing their Champions League position, and they did so with a second-half brace from Jules Koundé, who scored with headers in the 50th and 53rd minutes. Yamal provided the cross for the winner, and looking to close out the match with fresh legs, Flick replaced the young winger in the 89th minute with Roony Bardghji, a decision that clearly frustrated Yamal.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Flick was asked about Yamal’s reaction and whether it concerned him. “Next time, he will sit on the bench. That’s not a problem for me,” he joked, before getting serious. “No, it’s Lamine, it’s like this. He received a yellow card; there were about five minutes left; we had to make the substitution, so that’s why.“

The German manager went on to show empathy toward the young star: “I completely understand how he feels, because everyone wants to stay on the pitch. He also thinks he can play 90 minutes or 100 minutes. He’s young, and that’s normal.”

Flick concluded by emphasizing that this type of attitude isn’t a concern at all. “I think this is also a good attitude. For me, there is no problem. I understand him completely, because I was a player before. Maybe I didn’t do what Lamine does, but he is another player at a very high level, so I fully accept it. It’s not a problem,” he said.

A similar moment occurred earlier this season when Yamal showed frustration after being subbed off in the 3-0 loss to Chelsea. Still, even though this reaction came in a match Barcelona was winning, Flick believes these moments are more a reflection of Yamal’s desire to play every minute than a sign of a larger concern.

Yamal set to miss next Champions League game

Despite several matches still to be played on Wednesday, Barcelona moved up to 14th place with 10 points in the Champions League standings after their win over Frankfurt. However, in their push for a top-eight spot to avoid the playoff round, the club will face a major setback with Yamal unavailable.

After being booked in the 56th minute, Yamal will serve a one-match suspension due to yellow-card accumulation. With previous cautions against PSG and Club Brugge, the young winger reached his third of the tournament, ruling him out for Matchday 7 of the UCL, when Barcelona visit Slavia Prague next year on January 21.

As France manager Didier Deschamps prepares for what will be his final major competition with the national team, he acknowledges that the upcoming event carries extra weight — especially with the possibility that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo could both appear on soccer’s greatest stage for the sixth time.

The 2026 World Cup is taking shape across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and the global spotlight is already intensifying on the tournament’s biggest icons. As France manager Didier Deschamps prepares for what will be his final major competition with the national team, he acknowledges that the upcoming event carries extra weight — especially with the possibility that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo could both appear on soccer’s greatest stage for the sixth time.

The expanded 2026 format brings new challenges and new routes to the final at MetLife Stadium, yet one thing remains unchanged: the sense of anticipation surrounding the legends who have defined international soccer for nearly two decades.

Both GOATs are expected to push for one last run — Messi with Argentina, Ronaldo with Portugal — while Deschamps leads France into a demanding Group I containing Senegal and Norway. The French coach, who lifted the trophy as both player and manager, knows his team sits alongside other global powerhouses like Spain, Brazil, Germany, and England in a tournament packed with contenders.

But he also knows this World Cup may close a historic era. The possible six-time participants’ storyline has stirred worldwide attention — a backdrop Deschamps addressed directly in an interview with Ole, offering rare glimpses into his respect for the two icons.

What did Deschamps say about Messi and Ronaldo?

Midway through the discussion of France’s path, Deschamps was asked about Messi and Ronaldo possibly appearing in their sixth World Cup — a feat no male player has ever achieved. The French coach spoke with admiration: “They are two players who have marked international soccer for more than 15 years; without a doubt, it is something special for them.”

Those six words — “it is something special for them” — reveal Deschamps’ sentiment: a blend of respect, recognition, and acknowledgment that the 2026 tournament may be the grand finale for the two greatest rivals in soccer history.

Deschamps also dismissed any narrative that France seeks revenge for the 2022 final loss to Argentina: “There is no rematch in soccer. Argentina won and there is nothing we can do about it now. This is a new competition and we are going to try to go as far as possible.” His insistence on looking forward, not backward, frames Les Blues’ mindset heading into the tournament.

Over the past few days, a bizarre story has spread online claiming that, from January 2026, players would receive automatic yellow cards for knee-slide celebrations. As the debate swirled around social media, many fans began to wonder if one of the most iconic ways to celebrate a goal was genuinely under threat.

The Premier League is used to drama, but usually it comes from late winners, red cards, and VAR screens — not from wild rumors about banning goal celebrations. Over the past few days, a bizarre story has spread online claiming that, from January 2026, players would receive automatic yellow cards for knee-slide celebrations. As the debate swirled around social media, many fans began to wonder if one of the most iconic ways to celebrate a goal was genuinely under threat.

What actually happened tells a very different story — and it says more about how online hoaxes spread than it does about how the league or any club treats celebrations.

The rumor started with a post on X (formerly Twitter) that claimed the Premier League had decided to ban knee-slide celebrations due to concerns over “turf burns” and “joint strain”. The post insisted that any player attempting a knee slide from January 1 would be booked automatically.

The wording sounded official enough to trick a lot of people. Some fans reacted with anger, others with memes, but the story travelled fast. Within hours, it was being discussed as if it were a confirmed change, even though there was no official statement from the league, from any club, from refereeing bodies, or from lawmakers like IFAB.

In reality, there was a simple explanation: the account that posted the “news” is a parody profile that regularly invents fake stories for laughs and engagement. The bio even spells it out: “Everything I post is made up.” Yet, as often happens, many users shared the post without checking the source — and suddenly a joke turned into what looked like breaking news.

What the rules actually say about knee-slide celebrations

Once the dust settles, the picture is clear: there has been no rule change, no new directive, and no ban. There is no communication from the Premier League about outlawing knee-slide celebrations, no update from PGMOL, the body that oversees referees, nor a change from IFAB to the Laws of the Game regarding that type of celebration.

Knee slides have long been part of soccer culture, especially in the Premier League, where wet winter pitches make them even more dramatic. The laws only punish celebrations when they are clearly excessive or provocative: removing a shirt, inciting the crowd, wasting too much time, or entering the stands dangerously. Nowhere do the current rules state that sliding on the knees is automatically a booking.

As debunkers pointed out, the story came from a Newcastle-supporting user known for viral hoaxes. The account openly admits its content is fictional. In other words, the “knee-slide ban” was never anything more than a made-up gag that escaped its intended context.

Why knee slides cause debate – but not a ban

So if the rumor is false, why did it seem believable to some people? Part of the reason is that knee-slide celebrations do come with a bit of risk. Over the years, fans and physios have highlighted how this celebration can lead to cuts and turf burns on the skin, minor impact injuries if the surface is too dry, and even the occasional strain on the joints if the slide is mistimed or the pitch is uneven.

Critics argue that players sometimes “botch” the celebration, risking injury just to look cool in front of the cameras. But despite those concerns, the risks are considered relatively minor compared to the intensity of an entire match. For that reason, no governing body has moved to outlaw it, and club medical staff simply advise players to be sensible.

The prospect of seeing Christian Pulisic feature in a historic overseas Serie A match has dimmed dramatically, as Milan’s February 2026 meeting with Como appears set to return to Italian soil.

The prospect of seeing Christian Pulisic feature in a historic overseas Serie A match has dimmed dramatically, as Milan’s February 2026 meeting with Como appears set to return to Italian soil. What was once presented as a groundbreaking move — a league match played in Perth — has become shrouded in uncertainty. The clash, once promoted as a groundbreaking soccer export, is now expected to remain in Italy — even though the official explanation is still partially clouded. The reasons, however, would become strikingly clear as negotiations progressed

For months, Milan and Como had envisioned the February fixture as the first Serie A match ever staged outside Italy, a symbolic leap meant to expand the league’s global footprint. FIFA and UEFA had reluctantly agreed. The clubs had aligned. Lega Serie A had embraced the opportunity. Perth’s Optus Stadium — a 61,000-seat venue — was selected, and even the Asian Soccer Confederation (AFC) and Soccer Australia had delivered provisional approval.

It was clear from early planning that the decision was financially motivated. Como openly defended the move as essential for the survival of the league, stating in a lengthy release: “It is about ensuring survival, and building a future where Serie A remains competitive, respected, and globally admired.” But as February approaches, a more complicated picture has emerged.

AFC and Football Australia impose game-changing conditions

Midway through discussions, the full truth surfaced: the restrictions placed by the AFC and Soccer Australia are so strict that they effectively block Milan vs. Como from taking place in Australia. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the approval came with two non-negotiable conditions: The match could not be marketed as a Serie A fixture, and the referee team had to come from the AFC, not from Italy’s CAN.

These terms struck at the core of the match’s identity. If the game could not legally be billed as Serie A, and could not be officiated under domestic refereeing standards, it no longer resembled a legitimate league contest. The request stunned officials across Italy. One source described the conditions as “too restrictive to maintain the competition’s integrity.” From that moment, the project stalled.

What happens now? Milan scrambles for new venue

The timing could not be worse. San Siro will be unavailable due to preparations for the Milano–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony, forcing Milan to locate an alternative site. Several Italian venues are occupied that weekend, making scheduling tight and travel logistics challenging.

The most likely solutions now include relocating the match to another stadium within Italy and postponing the fixture until San Siro becomes available again. Inter recently played a Coppa Italia quarter-final in Monza, a potential model for Milan’s emergency reshuffling.

UEFA, which had already approved this match along with a since-cancelled La Liga fixture in Miami, has taken a hands-off position. According to reports, only FIFA can now intervene to revive the Perth plan — and there is no indication that it will.

The European scoring charts have taken on an unexpected shape in recent weeks, with Christian Pulisic joining names such as Robert Lewandowski and Harry Kane in discussions that were once reserved only for the continent’s most reliable finishers.

The European scoring charts have taken on an unexpected shape in recent weeks, with Christian Pulisic joining names such as Robert Lewandowski and Harry Kane in discussions that were once reserved only for the continent’s most reliable finishers. Milan’s resurgence has placed the American at the heart of one of the most unlikely scoring trends of the season, and his latest performance may have shifted the balance of power in Serie A’s title race.

The match against Torino had begun in disaster for the league leader. The home side, aggressive and direct, jumped to a 2-0 lead inside 17 minutes. Milan looked shaken, pinned back, and at risk of losing its unbeaten run. But almost as quickly, hope re-emerged. Adrien Rabiot stunned the stadium with a long-range strike that ignited the comeback, and soon after, with Rafael Leao injured, and Milan forced to reshuffle, the night opened a door for Pulisic.

Introduced in the 66th minute, Pulisic scored with his first touch, finishing from close range after a sharp cross delivered by Alexis Saelemaekers. Torino — already fragile defensively — was rocked by the sudden change in tempo, and Milan capitalized. Ten minutes later, the American star struck again. He completed the comeback with a calm finish inside the box, turning a 2-0 deficit into a 3-2 triumph that restored the Rossoneri’s place at the top of Serie A.

The detail that made the brace even more remarkable? Pulisic later admitted he had played while unwell. “Two days ago, I was truly dead; today I felt much better,” he told Sky Italia. “Yesterday, we didn’t know if I could play, but this morning I felt better. I’m happy with the goals — the important thing was to win the match.” Assistant coach Marco Landucci confirmed the situation, saying, “Pulisic had a fever of 39 the other day, and he was crucial to today’s victory.”

Where Pulisic now stands among Europe’s elite

According to Opta Paolo, Pulisic’s scoring frequency this season places him above Robert Lewandowski and behind only Harry Kane across Europe’s top five leagues. The key figure: The 27-year-old averages a goal every 64 minutes in Serie A — a pace surpassed only by the Englishman’s astonishing 59-minute ratio.

That efficiency has pushed him level with Lautaro Martinez atop the Serie A scoring table, and his nine goals in 12 games in all competitions have set a personal career milestone. As Milan prepares for Sassuolo and the Italian Super Cup, the storyline now stretches beyond domestic results. Pulisic’s scoring rate places him among Europe’s most efficient attackers, and the comparison with Kane has sparked curiosity about how far the American can push his numbers across the season.

A key teammate of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami is generating uncertainty about his future, with a South American club reportedly interested in him.

Lionel Messi cemented his place as the most decorated player in soccer history after winning the Major League Soccer title last Saturday. Now Inter Miami are fully focused on shaping their roster for the upcoming season, and one of the team’s core players is reportedly being closely monitored by a South American club.

“Tadeo Allende was offered to River,” journalist German Garcia Grova said, as cited by El Intransigente, regarding the Argentine forward who shined for the Herons during 2025. “The response was positive. The 26-year-old player is appreciated by Marcelo Gallardo,” the reporter added, referring to the River Plate head coach.

Allende was one of the most important players for Inter Miami on their path to the MLS title. He scored 24 goals in 54 matches across all competitions and was especially decisive during the postseason: he delivered nine goals and two assists in six matches, including the title-clinching goal in the final against the Vancouver Whitecaps.

“His rights belong to Celta Vigo, who acquired him for $4.5 million from Godoy Cruz. He is on loan at Inter Miami and must resolve his situation in Spain,” Garcia Grova added regarding the Argentine forward’s status.

Inter Miami’s reported stance on Allende

Tadeo Allende joined Inter Miami at the start of this year on a one-season loan. His performances exceeded expectations, which now makes the decision about his future a key issue for the Herons. In that context, the club appears to have a clear intention.

“Negotiations are underway for Tadeo Allende’s future as the striker returns to Celta Vigo after excellent season at Inter Miami with 24 goals in total,” reporter Fabrizio Romano wrote on his X account on Tuesday. “Inter Miami want to keep Allende as talks are ongoing about deal conditions, club very happy with his contribution.”

Inter Miami must resolve their forward situation

Winning the MLS title also marked the end of an era for Inter Miami. Several key players, such as Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, will not continue with the club beginning in 2026. At the same time, the status of other stars remains uncertain.

Along with the negotiations for Tadeo Allende, the situation of Luis Suarez is also a major issue. The Uruguayan forward will become a free agent on January 1, and his future is still unknown. Rumors of a possible return to Nacional have gained momentum in recent days, which would mark his third stint with the Uruguayan side.

However, the possibility of Suarez staying at Inter Miami remains open. His 17 goals in 50 matches in 2025 make him a valuable player, even after losing his starting spot to Mateo Silvetti. Additionally, his close friendship with Lionel Messi could play a key role in his decision.

In a year where he struggled to earn minutes with the national team, Christian Pulisic has been snubbed from a USMNT award, and now is set to remain tied with legend Landon Donovan, at least until 2026.

Christian Pulisic is enjoying one of his best goalscoring seasons despite struggling to find consistency due to recurring fitness issues. However, despite his strong form in 2025, Pulisic has been snubbed from a major USMNT award and is now set to remain tied at the top alongside legend Landon Donovan until 2026.

Throughout 2025, and in Mauricio Pochettino’s first year in charge of the USMNT, Pulisic surprisingly struggled to earn minutes with the national team. Specifically, the AC Milan star made only six appearances, missing 12 other matches including the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup. After registering just one assist in those games, Pulisic has now been left out of consideration for a key individual honor.

The finalists for the 2025 U.S. Soccer Male Player of the Year in the End-of-Year Awards have been announced, and Christian Pulisic is not among them. For this year’s edition, fans can vote for goalkeeper Matt Freese, defenders Max Arfsten, Alex Freeman and Chris Richards, and midfielder Malik Tillman.

His limited involvement with the USMNT ultimately kept Pulisic out of the Federation’s shortlist for the top performers of 2025. In fact, this marks the first time he has not been a finalist since 2018, when Zack Steffen, Tyler Adams, and Weston McKennie composed the list.

The USMNT enjoyed strong moments in 2025 with its run to the Gold Cup final, followed by impressive November wins over Paraguay and Uruguay. However, Pulisic’s absence during many of these key stretches played a major role in his omission from the final list.

Pulisic, tied with Donovan until 2026

Despite being one of the national team’s biggest absences in 2025, Christian Pulisic is still expected to play a crucial role for the USMNT heading into the 2026 World Cup. But in terms of individual accolades, the Milan star will have to wait until next year to break his tie with Landon Donovan.

Pulisic is the USMNT player who has won the U.S. Soccer Male Player of the Year award the most times with four, claiming the honor in alternating years: 2017, 2019, 2021 and most recently in 2023. Donovan previously held the record with four wins of his own, in 2003, 2004, 2009 and 2010. Now sharing the throne, it appears only a matter of time before the 27-year-old surpasses the former LA Galaxy icon.

Following Marcus Rashford's unexpected impact in Barcelona, PSG supposedly expressed strong interest in the Englishman amid the Spanish side reported doubts about signing him. Amid these developments, the 28-year-old star has reportedly made a clear decision about his future.

Marcus Rashford has managed to revive his career since arriving at Barcelona, showcasing impressive speed and vision. Although he has not yet secured a spot in the starting lineup, coach Hansi Flick considers him one of the key pieces in his rotation. Given his rising level, the Englishman has been linked to reported interest from PSG. Because of this, the 28-year-old star has supposedly made a clear decision regarding his future.

According to TEAMtalk, Marcus Rashford has reportedly informed Manchester United that he only wants to join Barcelona once his loan ends in June 2026. With this, the Englishman aims to make it clear that the PSG rumors will not go anywhere as long as the option to stay with the Spanish club remains on the table. With this move, the Red Devils may be forced to lower their financial demands and make easier his move to the Culers.

Even though Marcus has managed to show an imposing level of play, Barcelona are not entirely convinced about making use of the purchase option valued at €35 million (approximately $40.5 million). This does not mean that the Englishman has no chances of staying, since the Culers are looking to analyze his potential permanent arrival at the end of the season, based on his consistency and impact on the team.

In case Barcelona decide to buy Rashford, they have set a series of conditions for the Englishman in order to reach an agreement. According to Diario Sport, the Culers would look to reduce the price tag proposed by Manchester United and for Marcus to accept a substantial salary reduction with a contract until 2030. Due to the strong interest of the 28-year-old star, these conditions might not be an impediment to completing his arrival.

Experience or youth? Barcelona face a massive choice with Rashford

Not only has Marcus Rashford expressed his desire to stay in Barcelona, but Hansi Flick has also said he is happy to have the Englishman on the team. His vision of the game and quick adaptation to the style of play have been a pleasant surprise. However, the Culers are reportedly debating whether to bet on Rashford or sign a young player, with two options already on the table.

According to Diario Sport, Barcelona have not ruled out the possibility of signing Rashford but are still following two young wingers: Malick Fofana from Olympique Lyon and Antonio Nusa from RB Leipzig. With both players being above €30 million (around $34.8 million), the Culers place high value on the fact that Marcus is already a proven talent. Because of this, the front office is supposedly still debating between experience and youth.

With a large part of the season still ahead, Marcus Rashford must continue his upward progression to settle the debate. If he improves his defensive contribution and maintains his offensive output, Barcelona could opt to keep him under a reduced transfer fee. However, it does not mean that young players would be ruled out, since the potential departure of Robert Lewandowski could make Ferran Torres become a striker and open space on the left wing.

Amid his conflicts at Liverpool, Mohamed Salah could win an award previously earned by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Recent weeks have been turbulent at Liverpool. Poor results combined with head coach Arne Slot’s surprising decision to bench Mohamed Salah for the past few matches sparked major controversy involving the team’s biggest star. In that context, the Egyptian winger could win an award that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have both received in the past.

On Tuesday, the nominees for the different categories of the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2025 awards were announced. There, Salah was named one of six finalists for the prestigious World Sport Star trophy, which is given to a non-British sportsperson whose global impact on sports is considered especially significant during the year.

The Liverpool winger shares the category with five stars from different sports: Mariona Caldentey (Arsenal and Spain women’s soccer player), Terence Allan Crawford (American boxer), Armand Gustav Duplantis (Swedish pole vaulter), Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (American hurdler and sprinter), and Shohei Ohtani (Japanese player for the Los Angeles Dodgers of Major League Baseball).

Salah has had a highly unusual 2025. In the first half of the year, he was the Premier League’s standout star, leading Liverpool to the title while finishing as both the league’s top scorer (29) and top assist provider (18). Those achievements were enough to place the Egyptian star among the most outstanding athletes of the year, despite the second half of the year being completely different for him both individually and collectively.

At the start of the 2025–26 season, Mo has registered only five goals and three assists in 19 matches across all competitions. That drop in form has also affected the Reds, who sit in 10th place in the Premier League and 13th in the UEFA Champions League.

Individual awards won by Salah

If he wins the World Sport Star 2025, Mohamed Salah would add another trophy to his already extensive collection of individual honors. Throughout his career, he has not only enjoyed great success at club and international level but has also been recognized with a wide range of awards for his performances.

Among Salah’s trophies are: Globe Soccer Fans’ Player of the Year 2022, Golden Foot 2021, Laureus Sporting Inspiration Award 2021, FIFA Puskas Award 2018, Premier League Golden Boot 2018, 2019, 2022, and 2025, and African Footballer of the Year 2017 and 2018.

Messi and Ronaldo have won the World Sport Star award

The BBC created the World Sport Star award in 1960, originally known as the BBC Overseas Sports Personality of the Year. Since then, numerous soccer stars have won the trophy, including Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Argentine forward won it in 2022 after capturing the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, while CR7 received the honor in 2014. Other soccer stars who have earned the World Sport Star award include Erling Haaland, Ronaldo Nazario, Pele, and Eusebio.

With the eyes set on the 2026 World Cup, Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez addressed Cristiano Ronaldo's leadership and role in the national team.

Cristiano Ronaldo has remained the focal point of the Portugal national team despite leaving European soccer in 2022 to join Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, head coach Roberto Martínez has addressed the striker’s role and leadership within the squad.

After turning 40 in February 2025, questions arose about Ronaldo’s future as his contract was set to expire in June 2026. Still, the forward continues to perform at a high level and helped lead Portugal to the Nations League title, defeating Lamine Yamal’s Spain in the final, setting major expectations for the World Cup.

In an interview with Diario Sport, Martínez was asked how he continues to get the best out of a player who has already become a global legend: “With him, we’re seeing an example that repeats itself with great high-level athletes who enjoy longevity: they adapt to whatever is necessary. We witnessed Cristiano’s emergence in 2004, and we’re aware of everything he has accomplished in his career.”

Highlighting Ronaldo’s ability to adapt, and noting his tally of 25 goals in his last 30 games with Portugal, the Spanish coach reflected on his current significance. “We aren’t talking about a footballer who plays for Portugal because of what he’s done in the past, but one who is very important to the team’s current structure. That ability to adapt is essential for any player’s longevity,” he added.

Since Euro 2024, Cristiano Ronaldo has played in 14 of Portugal’s 16 matches, posting an impressive return of 13 goals, making him the team’s most prolific scorer in that span and throughout Martínez’s tenure. With his red card from the Ireland match officially cleared, the Al Nassr star is now set to take part in what will likely be his final World Cup when Portugal begins its campaign on June 17.

Is Portugal a favorite for the 2026 World Cup?

After Spain’s triumph at Euro 2024, La Roja entered the World Cup cycle as one of the main title contenders. However, Portugal flipped that narrative with its Nations League win last June, immediately placing itself among the teams expected to compete for the trophy.

Martínez, who will be coaching in his first World Cup since taking over Portugal, was asked whether his side should be considered the favorite, and the coach didn’t hesitate: “No. Our objective is to be very aware that we want to improve in every match. If we can manage, as we did in the Nations League, the competitiveness we have within the locker room, then we must demand the highest level from ourselves.“

Despite downplaying Portugal’s status as favorites, Martínez embraced the challenge. “Reaching a World Cup final or not is a difficult, complex path with many variables. But we have to be prepared for everything and be a team that isn’t afraid to dream,” the coach concluded.

Despite Luis Díaz being absent, Bayern Munich convincingly defeated Sporting Lisbon with a record-breaking Lennart Karl. The German rising star surpassed Kylian Mbappe in a Champions League record, leaving also aside Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Even if Luis Díaz was sidelined, Bayern Munich secured a dominant victory over Sporting Lisbon. After initially falling behind, the German side rebounded the game with three goals, demonstrating that they are one of the clear favorites to win the tournament. Moreover, coach Vincent Kompany surprised by starting young Lennart Karl, who surpassed Kylian Mbappé and left Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi behind in setting a surprising Champions League record.

Lennart Karl stunned the soccer world by scoring in Bayern Munich’s victory, becoming the first player in Champions League history to score in three consecutive matches while under 18 years old. The German rising star achieved this feat at 17 years and 290 days, surpassing Kylian Mbappé, who had reached the milestone at 18 years and 113 days, according to Misterchip on X, formerly Twitter.

Lionel Messi may be one of the greatest players in history, but he reached this milestone at an older age compared to Lennart Karl and Kylian Mbappé. During the 2008–09 season, at 21 years and 245 days old, he accomplished it by scoring against Sporting Lisbon, Shakhtar Donetsk, and Olympique Lyon. That season, the Argentine solidified his status as one of the world’s best players, finishing second in the Ballon d’Or rankings.

Like the Argentine star, Cristiano Ronaldo took some time to score in three consecutive games in the Champions League. Even though the Portuguese star is the all-time scorer in the competition, he achieved that mark at 22 years and 295 days. While playing for Manchester United in the 2007-08 season, he reached that mark after scoring against Dynamo Kyiv (two games) and Sporting Lisbon. For that reason, Lennart Karl has already surpassed both legends.

Lennart Karl chases Lamine Yamal in a scoring Champions League record

Not only has Vincent Kompany established an imposing style of play, but he has also managed to build Bayern Munich’s future. In June 2025, Lennart Karl made his professional debut at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, and he has already accumulated 20 appearances for the German club across all competitions, scoring five goals and providing two assists. Moreover, he positions himself as a close challenger to Lamine Yamal in the Champions League record race.

Lamine Yamal became the under-18 player with the most goals in Champions League history, scoring five goals, according to StatMuse. After scoring three goals, Lennart Karl stands as the only current player capable of surpassing that mark, as the Spaniard is already 18 and can no longer extend his record. With most of the 2025–26 season still ahead, the German rising star could soon claim ownership of this record as well.

Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez has recently come under scrutiny for his performances, and Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo spoke out on the matter.

Atletico Madrid made an investment of around €95 million (approximately $110 million) to sign Julian Alvarez in mid-2024, hoping he would become the club’s next big star. The Argentine forward had delivered excellent performances since then, but his level has dipped recently, drawing some criticism.

Alvarez has gone five consecutive La Liga matches without scoring, an unusually long drought for him, which has affected the team’s results: the Colchoneros have suffered back-to-back defeats against Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao, leaving them in fourth place in the standings, nine points off the top.

“He’s not at the level he should be,” Enrique Cerezo admitted candidly during a press conference on Tuesday ahead of Atletico Madrid’s clash with PSV Eindhoven in the UEFA Champions League, as reported by Marca.

However, Cerezo quickly expressed optimism that Alvarez can turn his poor run around and help the team achieve positive results. “That doesn’t mean he can’t have the game of his life today,” the president said. “Players are human beings, not machines—you can’t just tighten a screw and expect them to work.”

Alvarez maintains strong form in Champions League

While Julian Alvarez’s La Liga numbers have fallen short of expectations for a player of his status, he has been performing better in the Champions League. The Argentine forward has recorded three goals and two assists in four group-stage matches, scoring in the last two games against Union Saint-Gilloise and Inter Milan.

Those performances have been key for Atletico Madrid to recover from a poor start—with two defeats in their first three matches—and climb the standings. Currently, they sit in 12th place with nine points, just one point shy of a direct qualification spot for the round of 16.

What’s next for Atletico Madrid in the Champions League?

This Tuesday, Atletico Madrid face a crucial Champions League clash, visiting PSV Eindhoven at Philips Stadion, a direct rival in the fight to advance to the next phase of the tournament. The hosts have just one point fewer in the standings and share the same objective.

After Tuesday’s match in the Netherlands, Atletico Madrid have only two more group-stage games remaining: on Wednesday, January 21, they will visit Galatasaray in Turkey, and a week later, they will host Bodo Glimt.

Real Madrid’s season was already creaking under pressure, but the most unwelcome twist arrived just days before the crucial UEFA Champions League showdown against Manchester City. As the spotlight sharpened on Xabi Alonso’s struggling squad, Kylian Mbappe suddenly became the center of growing uncertainty. The French superstar, expected to carry the attack against the English champion, now faces a race against time, leaving fans, pundits, and even Manchester City itself wondering whether the Bernabeu will witness his trademark explosiveness on Wednesday night.

Real Madrid’s season was already creaking under pressure, but the most unwelcome twist arrived just days before the crucial UEFA Champions League showdown against Manchester City. As the spotlight sharpened on Xabi Alonso’s struggling squad, Kylian Mbappe suddenly became the center of growing uncertainty. The French superstar, expected to carry the attack against the English champion, now faces a race against time, leaving fans, pundits, and even Manchester City itself wondering whether the Bernabeu will witness his trademark explosiveness on Wednesday night.

Los Blancos’ training ground at Valdebebas offered an alarming sight on Tuesday morning: Mbappe was nowhere to be seen on the pitch. After completing 90 minutes in the 2-0 defeat to Celta Vigo, the forward had left the match nursing more than just frustration — he had carried injuries that were not immediately visible.

Initially, the club downplayed the significance of a broken finger, an injury he sustained during the match. But a second, far more concerning issue emerged: muscle discomfort in his left leg, prompting Marca to label him a “serious doubt” for the Champions League clash.

As multiple outlets confirmed, Mbappe trained indoors with the other injured players instead of joining the squad. According to COPE’s Arancha Rodriguez, the forward is “dealing with muscular discomfort” that could jeopardize his participation entirely. The timing could hardly be worse. The match has been described in Spain as “must-win” for Alonso, whose position has come under scrutiny during the team’s recent slump.

Will Mbappe recover in time?

Midway through the growing tension, the question everyone was afraid to ask finally surfaced — Will Mbappe return in time for Manchester City? And here is the truth Madrid had hoped to avoid: Mbappe’s muscle injury is significant enough that Real Madrid cannot yet determine his availability, and the club privately fears he may miss the Manchester City clash altogether.

Players who do not train the day before a Champions League fixture are typically left out or, at best, named on the bench. Alonso himself admitted the gravity of the moment, saying: “We’ve drawn our conclusions about the Celta game, and now we’re only thinking about City… I’m sure the atmosphere will be special. That’s our focus.”

But Mbappe’s absence overshadowed everything, adding urgency to an already difficult tactical rebuild. Thus, the 27-year-old remains genuinely doubtful. His condition will be assessed hours before kickoff, but Madrid now fears he may not recover in time.

How Madrid struggles without Mbappe

Real Madrid’s entire forward structure revolves around one constant: The Frenchman is its most reliable source of goals and chance creation. In fact, he is the leading scorer in both La Liga and the Champions League.

However, in matches where Mbappe failed to score, Madrid won only two. In the club’s last four games, every goal scored or created involved him. Without him, the attack loses pace, directness, and unpredictability.

While Cristiano Ronaldo continues his global-superstar reign in the Saudi Pro League, it is Salah whose name now echoes through boardrooms in the Middle East—fueling talk of a blockbuster move that could redefine the league’s future.

Liverpool’s season has lurched into crisis, and few moments encapsulate the turmoil more sharply than the sight of Mohamed Salah, frustrated and sidelined, watching from the bench as tensions with Arne Slot spill into public view. While Cristiano Ronaldo continues his global-superstar reign in the Saudi Pro League, it is Salah whose name now echoes through boardrooms in the Middle East—fueling talk of a blockbuster move that could redefine the league’s future.

The Egyptian forward’s relationship with the club has deteriorated rapidly following his public criticism of Slot and his omission from the Champions League squad to face Inter. The separation has grown so visible that even within Liverpool’s walls, optimism over reconciliation is fading. “I’ve been thrown under the bus,” Salah told reporters after the 3-3 draw at Leeds, “I don’t know why I’m sitting on the bench… this is not acceptable for me.”

His comments—bold, unprecedented, and emotionally charged—rippled across Anfield. The Reds insist the decision to exclude him from the Inter match is temporary and pragmatic, not disciplinary, but reality paints a more volatile picture. The club “remains committed to Salah until 2027”, per talkSPORT, yet the striker’s own words hint at a turning tide.

Salah has not appeared in Slot’s starting XI for three matches, a first in his Liverpool career. He now speaks openly about saying his “goodbyes” at Anfield before traveling to the Africa Cup of Nations—words that have only intensified speculation over what comes next.

Interest in Saudi Arabia intensifies — and the clubs are revealed

According to talkSPORT, “Saudi Arabian interest in Mohamed Salah is intensifying”, with multiple teams monitoring the Liverpool star amid his escalating fallout. Their ambitions are clear: to secure the Arab world’s biggest soccerer as the next face of the league. The report adds that Al-Hilal, NEOM FC, and Al-Qadsiah are the clubs that have reportedly shown interest so far.

Saudi officials see Salah as the only player capable of matching Ronaldo’s continental draw. AFP quotes a Public Investment Fund (PIF) source as saying: “We will do whatever we can to buy him.”

The PIF, which controls a majority stake in four major Pro League clubs, believes Salah would provide both soccer quality and global branding power—an essential element of the league’s buildup toward the 2034 World Cup. “Salah is a beloved footballer around the globe and will have a massive impact on the Saudi League, both on and off the pitch,” the PIF source added.

Why Saudi Arabia sees Salah as the new Ronaldo

The strategy is unmistakable: as Cristiano Ronaldo, now 40 and still the face of Al-Nassr, nears the twilight of his career, the league must identify the next generational figure to carry its global ambitions. Salah fits the profile perfectly:

He is the Arab world’s most recognizable player, and his commercial reach rivals Ronaldo’s across key markets. What’s more is that his fallout at Liverpool creates a rare opening. Saudi Arabia, which failed in efforts to sign the Egyptian in 2023, now sees timing, politics, and opportunity aligning.

Following Mohamed Salah critical comments, Liverpool chose to exclude him from their Champions League match, prompting a tense relation. Reds’ legend Jamie Carragher weighed in on the situation, providing insights into the veteran's true intentions with his words.

Mohamed Salah hasn’t had the season he envisioned following his multi-million-dollar contract renewal with Liverpool. Facing his own lack of effectiveness, coach Arne Slot made the decision to relegate the veteran to the bench. In response, the 33-year-old star reacted angrily in the mixed zone, making harsh comments that led the team to exclude him from the squad. Legend Jamie Carragher also weighed in, sharing his opinion on Salah’s true intentions behind his words.

“I thought it was a disgrace what he did after the game. Some people have painted it as an emotional outburst, I do not think it was. I think whenever Salah stops in the mix zone, which he’s done four times in eight years at Liverpool, it’s choreographed between him and his agent…he’s chose that time to go for the manager, and maybe try and get him (Arne Slot) sacked,” Jamie Carragher said, via Sky Sports.

Salah is not the only one struggling with form; other Liverpool players, like Alexander Isak, Ibrahima Konate, and Florian Wirtz, are also facing challenges. Consequently, the Reds have secured just one win in their last six games, raising questions about Arne Slot‘s future. For that reason, Carragher noted that the Egyptian star hoped to increase pressure on the front office to consider dismissing the coach, but this strategy appears ineffective so far.

Arne Slot is reportedly backed by Liverpool amid Salah turmoil

Mohamed Salah is one of the most important players in Liverpool’s history. Despite this, the front office has decided to take a surprising stance amid the tense relationship between the Egyptian and Arne Slot. According to teamTALK, FSG, the team’s ownership, has decided to support the coach in any decision regarding the situation with the team’s star player, seeking an overall improvement of the team in the following games.

Not only the front office but also the players have clearly supported Arne Slot. At the press conference prior to the Liverpool vs. Inter Milan game, Alisson Becker was asked if he supported his coach, to which he replied: “Of course, yes. The Premier League title last season… Looks like everyone takes for granted what we achieved last season. That should be enough but we believe in his knowledge, his style of playing.”

Far from taking advantage of the general support he has received at Liverpool, Arne Slot did not close the door on a possible return of Mohamed Salah to the squad. In the press conference, the coach stated: “I’m a firm believer there’s always a possibility to return for a player.” Although he left the door open, he also made it clear that this would depend on the veteran himself, as Salah may be forced to change his stance in case he looks to a return to the team.

After winning back-to-back the Landon Donovan MLS MVP award, Lionel Messi broke the silence and addressed Inter Miami's historic 2025 season.

Lionel Messi has been awarded the Landon Donovan MVP award once again for his performance in the 2025 Major League Soccer season, becoming the first player in league history to win it in consecutive years. After receiving the honor, the Argentine star broke his silence, reflecting on the season and the significance of the moment.

Against the Vancouver Whitecaps, Messi helped Inter Miami achieve one of the club’s biggest goals since its founding in 2018 by lifting the 2025 MLS Cup on Saturday. The trophy effectively confirmed what most fans already expected, Messi’s crowning as the league’s MVP, a recognition the Herons’ captain officially received during the opening of the Messi Cup on Tuesday.

After accepting the award, Messi took the microphone and looked back on the 2025 campaign: “Well, first of all, I’m extremely grateful for this recognition. In fact, it’s always nice to receive individual awards. But of course, I want to share it with my teammates, because I also won the Golden Boot award, and that’s thanks to all of their help.”

As Messi mentioned, with 29 goals in 28 regular-season games, he secured the Golden Boot, then added another six during the postseason. “I’m so happy to have received this award, and to be the first in the history of this competition to win it two years in a row, and I’m extremely grateful for that,” the Argentine concluded, highlighting not only this, but also the performance from last season.

Last season, Messi featured in only 25 matches across all competitions for Inter Miami but still produced 20 goals in MLS play. In 2025, the No. 10 nearly doubled those totals, showing not only his continued adaptation to the league but also that his high level of play is far from declining.

More Messi records in the 2025 MLS season

After setting a high bar in 2024 with numbers comparable to some of the league’s greatest players, Messi elevated his standard again in 2025. Despite dealing with fitness issues early in the season, the forward dominated the league throughout the year, breaking numerous records along the way.

Some of the records Messi set during the 2025 MLS season include:

• Fastest player to score 50 goals in MLS history (53 games).
• Most braces scored in consecutive MLS games (5).
• First player in league history to win six Player of the Matchday honors in consecutive seasons.
• First player in league history with at least five Player of the Month honors in a two-season span.
• Most goal contributions in a single MLS postseason with 15 (6 goals and 9 assists).
• Most games with at least three goal contributions in a single MLS season (9).
• Most games with multiple goals in a single MLS season (10).

Although Xabi Alonso promised to usher in a successful era at Real Madrid, inconsistent results have cast doubt on his future. In light of this, Liverpool's circumstances have positioned him as a potential candidate, prompting the Spaniard coach to deliver a surprising response.

Real Madrid have shifted from being a promising sports project to becoming rather unstable. Uncertainty clouds Xabi Alonso’s position due to issues not just in the locker room, but also with inconsistent results. Reports suggest that the coach has received an ultimatum: Win the game against Manchester City or face consequences. Amid this turmoil, the Spanish coach has emerged as a potential candidate for Liverpool, and his response has surprised fans.

At the most recent press conference, Xabi Alonso was asked about his alleged ultimatum. He responded: “When you’re the Real Madrid coach, you have to be prepared to face these situations calmly, with unity, and with the responsibility that I feel, and I’m looking forward for what’s to come and that starts tomorrow (Manchester City)…We’re focused solely on City and the Champions League, and this can change quickly.”

Focusing on the upcoming match against Manchester City, Xabi Alonso is urging Real Madrid players to deliver a strong response following criticism of the players’ recent lack of effort. Although the front office does not primarily blame the coach, Mario Cortegana reports in The Athletic that a defeat could prompt his early departure from the club. This scenario could pave the way for a potential move to Liverpool, given that Arne Slot’s position is under serious scrutiny.

Amid the rumors naming him as a strong candidate to take over as Liverpool’s coach, Xabi Alonso gave a response that surprised fans. “It’s something to consider with the English clubs, with my former club. But for now, this is the place that I want to be, and in the future, you never know what can happen,” he said at the press conference. Although he prioritized Real Madrid, the Spanish coach leaves the door open for a potential move, not ruling out the option entirely.

Arne Slot is not under fire at Liverpool as Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid

Liverpool continue their search for suitable coaching candidates, but they are not considering dismissing Arne Slot. According to talkSPORT, FSG, the team’s owners, fully support the coach, allowing him to make decisions and manage the situation in pursuit of better results. This contrasts sharply with Xabi Alonso’s position at Real Madrid, where, according to the Spanish press, he may face dismissal if the team does not improve in the upcoming games.

Unlike other teams, Real Madrid don’t wait for anyone, leaving Xabi Alonso with little time to rebuild. As one of the most demanding clubs in the world, they may not give a coach an entire season without titles to develop and improve the squad. Similarly, if Arne Slot fails to turn things around at Liverpool, he might also face dismissal. Given the unpredictable nature of soccer, it would be a mistake to rule out the Spaniard’s arrival at the Reds.

Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi was selected as the 2025 Most Valuable Player of Major League Soccer.

Inter Miami closed out an exceptional 2025 by winning the Major League Soccer title after defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps in the final. Lionel Messi was the team’s undisputed star, earning him the league’s MVP award and a record never before achieved in MLS history.

“Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi has been named the 2025 Landon Donovan MLS MVP, becoming the first player in league history to win the award in consecutive seasons,” the league announced on Tuesday in a statement published on its official website.

Leo secured the trophy with a commanding lead over his competitors in the voting process, which included technical staff members from Major League Soccer clubs, media members, and current MLS players. A total of 70.43% of the votes went to Lionel Messi, while San Diego FC’s Anders Dreyer finished far behind with 11.15%, followed by Los Angeles FC’s Denis Bouanga with 7.27%.

The award for the Argentine forward is justified not only because he was the leader of the championship-winning team but also due to his remarkable numbers. He recorded 48 goal contributions during the regular season (29 goals and 19 assists), the second-highest total in league history.

The trophies just keep coming for Leo. 🏆

After a regular season to remember, Messi is the 2025 MLS MVP. pic.twitter.com/LYTlNR4M9N

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) December 9, 2025

In addition, those numbers allowed him to finish as both the league’s top scorer and top assist provider simultaneously, a feat previously achieved by only one other player in Major League Soccer: Italian forward Sebastian Giovinco in 2015 with Toronto FC.

Messi keeps breaking records in MLS

The MVP award is the second consecutive one Lionel Messi has received since his arrival in Major League Soccer. In 2024, he had led Inter Miami on a historic run, becoming the team with the most points in a single regular season in league history. The Herons’ failure in the playoffs did not prevent Leo from winning his first MVP trophy.

With this second award, Messi joins a select group of stars who have won the MVP more than once. Until now, the only player to achieve that feat was Serbian midfielder Predrag Radosavljevic, better known as Preki, who won the trophy with the Kansas City Wizards in 1997 and 2003.

However, no player had ever won the MVP in consecutive years—until the arrival of Lionel Messi. The Argentine forward has completely transformed Major League Soccer with his talent and winning mentality, and in just two and a half years, he has shattered countless league records.

With his contract recently extended through December 2028, Messi now has three more seasons ahead to continue improving his numbers. If he maintains his current level of performance, he could become the first player in Major League Soccer history to win the MVP award three times.

Inter will face Liverpool in league stage Matchday 6 of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League. Here you can find the kickoff times, along with details on where to watch the match on TV or through streaming platforms in the United States.

Match Overview

One of the marquee showdowns of Matchday 6 brings together two European heavyweights with Champions League pedigrees and quarterfinal stakes firmly on the line. Liverpool enter the contest under pressure, sitting on nine points and just one shy of the final qualification spots, making a result at San Siro essential as their margin for error continues to shrink.

Inter Milan arrive in strong position after collecting 12 points from a possible 15, but the job isn’t finished yet, as the Italian side still need a victory to officially lock in a place among the last eight. With both clubs chasing different objectives and little separating them, this clash has all the ingredients of a high-intensity, must-watch night in Europe.

Barcelona will face Eintracht Frankfurt in league stage Matchday 6 of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League. Here you can find the kickoff times, along with details on where to watch the match on TV or through streaming platforms in the United States.

Match Overview

A high-stakes matchup awaits as Barcelona and Eintracht Frankfurt enter with very different objectives. The Blaugrana sit on seven points and need a strong showing to stay in the race for a top-eight finish and an automatic Round of 16 spot after an inconsistent league phase.

Frankfurt, with four points and currently outside the qualification places, desperately need a result to keep their top-24 hopes alive with just two Matchdays left. With pressure on both sides and plenty on the line, this is a game you won’t want to miss.