Ousmane Dembélé was awarded FIFA The Best in 2025, capping off a dream season in which he also claimed the Ballon d’Or and lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy. After securing the two most prestigious individual honors in world soccer, the Paris Saint-Germain star has now joined an elite club alongside legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

After dominating domestic competition in France, Dembélé played a decisive role on the continental stage, helping PSG win the Champions League and reach the FIFA Club World Cup final. With 35 goals and 16 assists in 53 appearances, “The Mosquito” was one of the standout performers of the season, edging out Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé in voting for both awards.

By sweeping the Ballon d’Or and FIFA The Best in the same calendar year, Dembélé became the fourth player to achieve the feat. The only others to do so are Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modrić, and Lionel Messi, placing the French winger among the most exclusive company in the modern era.

Since 2010, France Football and FIFA briefly unified their criteria to present the FIFA Ballon d’Or as a single award recognizing the world’s best player. That partnership ended in 2016, after which the Ballon d’Or and FIFA The Best became separate honors again, often aligning in their winners, but occasionally producing different outcomes.

Cristiano Ronaldo was the first player to win both awards in the same year, accomplishing the feat in back-to-back seasons. In 2016, he won the Champions League and the European Championship with Portugal, and in 2017, he repeated the double after claiming the Champions League and La Liga with Real Madrid.

Modrić followed in 2018 after winning the Champions League with Real Madrid and leading Croatia to a runner-up finish at the World Cup. Lionel Messi later joined the list in 2019, thanks to his Golden Boot-winning season and La Liga title, and again in 2023, largely driven by Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph.

Who failed to claim both awards?

The Ballon d’Or and FIFA The Best are decided using different voting systems. The Ballon d’Or is determined by journalists, while FIFA The Best includes votes from national team captains, coaches, and fans worldwide. While the results often align, several seasons have produced split decisions.

In 2020, FIFA awarded The Best to Robert Lewandowski, while the Ballon d’Or was not awarded at all due to the pandemic, denying the Polish striker a potential historic sweep. A year later, Messi won the Ballon d’Or, while Lewandowski claimed FIFA The Best, sparking widespread debate.

In 2022, Messi won FIFA The Best, while Karim Benzema claimed the Ballon d’Or. Most recently, in 2024, Rodri secured the Ballon d’Or, while Vinícius Júnior was named FIFA The Best in another controversial split. Dembélé has now ended that trend in 2025, emerging as the consensus choice for the world’s best player.

Even though Manchester United have experienced a significant offensive boost with Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, they have failed to showcase consistency. For that reason, they are planning to reinforce Bruno Fernandes with a top Premier League winger. Nonetheless, the Red Devils will face tough competition as Manchester City and Liverpool are also chasing his arrival in the 2026-27 season.

According to Lyall Thomas of Sky Sports, Manchester United are leading the race to sign AFC Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo ahead of the 2026–27 season. However, securing the African forward will not be straightforward, as Manchester City have also emerged as a strong contender for his signature, increasing the competition and dealing a blow to Liverpool, who had identified him as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah.

Far from being a player who stands out as a goal scorer, Semenyo has distinguished himself in the Premier League with his impressive versatility, shining offensively while also contributing defensively. For this reason, the Red Devils could target him as a winger or wing-back, offering coach Ruben Amorim a great variety that could make a difference with Bruno Fernandes impressive consistency.

Antoine Semenyo holds the major advantage of controlling his future. With offers from several teams, the Ghanaian might prioritize a team competing in the UEFA Champions League, a decision that could significantly weaken the Red Devils’ chances, as Manchester City may offer a clear advantage. However, the prominence he could enjoy within the squad might be a key factor—something Liverpool or Manchester United could be better positioned to guarantee.

Semenyo’s arrival at Manchester United may hinge on Marcus Rashford

Unlike Liverpool or Manchester City, the Red Devils face a challenging path to securing Antoine Semenyo’s arrival. Although Marcus Rashford has left the club, he might return from his loan spell, as Barcelona reportedly hesitates to complete the deal due to the high cost of a permanent transfer. As a result, the potential arrival of the Ghanaian could stall until Rashford’s departure is finalized, which would free up both wage space and a spot in the squad.

Rashford has reportedly made it clear to the Red Devils that he sees his future solely with Barcelona. With their interest in Semenyo, the club might need to lower their financial expectations to offload Marcus’s multimillion-pound wages and create space for the Ghanaian player. However, Manchester United may need to resolve this situation quickly, as Antoine could opt for another destination if his move is not finalized soon.

For seven seasons, Kylian Mbappe was the face of Paris Saint-Germain and the superstar around whom the club revolved. His goals powered domestic dominance, his image carried global ambition, and his presence defined an era. Yet when he finally left the club, the farewell was anything but graceful. What followed was a bruising legal battle that exposed one of modern soccer’s most toxic breakups — and ended with a stunning ruling that reshaped the power balance between player and club.

Few expected the fallout to escalate this far. Fewer still predicted the scale of the outcome. At the center of it all was a question soccer rarely wants to confront: what happens when contracts, loyalty, and power collide under the scrutiny of labor law?

Mbappe joined PSG in 2017 and quickly became its defining figure, winning six league titles and scoring a record 256 goals. But tensions simmered beneath the surface long before the legal confrontation.

In 2023, the Frenchman informed the club that he would not activate an extension clause in his contract, meaning he could leave on a free transfer the following summer. That decision triggered a chain reaction. He was excluded from pre-season plans, sidelined from the opening match of the season, and placed under mounting pressure to either renew or leave.

The club claimed these actions were necessary to protect its financial interests. Mbappe’s camp saw it differently. According to multiple reports cited by The Athletic, the forward’s legal team argued that wages and bonuses were unlawfully withheld during the final months of his contract, despite him continuing to train and play.

The court steps in — and delivers its verdict

After months of legal wrangling, a Paris labor court delivered a decisive ruling. The judges found that the club had failed to pay three months of salary, a loyalty bonus, and a signing bonus owed under Mbappe’s contract. As a result, the club was ordered to make an immediate payment exceeding $70.7 million, covering unpaid wages and bonuses.

The ruling also dismissed the club’s extraordinary counter-claim, which had sought hundreds of millions in damages for what it described as a “loss of opportunity” following Mbappe’s free transfer. In a statement following the verdict, Mbappe’s lawyers declared: “This ruling confirms a simple truth: even in professional football, labour law applies to everyone.” They added that the decision validated their long-held position that no written agreement existed in which the player waived his earnings.

Why Mbappe won and PSG lost the case

At the heart of the case was an alleged verbal agreement. The club insisted that Mbappe had agreed to forgo certain payments in exchange for being reintegrated into the squad during the 2023-24 season. The court disagreed. Crucially, judges ruled that no formal amendment to the contract had ever been signed, making the club’s position legally untenable. Without documentary proof, the claim collapsed.

That finding proved decisive — and devastating. The court also rejected Mbappe’s attempt to reclassify his fixed-term contract as a permanent one, limiting the size of his award. But on the central issue of unpaid compensation, the verdict was unequivocal.

Lionel Messi, the face of Inter Miami’s project, continues to redefine what soccer looks like in the United States, while Robert Lewandowski remains one of Europe’s most prolific No.9s despite approaching the twilight of his career. Elsewhere, Luis Suarez stands at a crossroads, his future uncertain as Inter Miami reshapes its attack. Somewhere between ambition, timing, and legacy, a major decision is quietly taking shape — one that could dramatically alter the balance of power in Major League Soccer.

Inter Miami’s rise has never been accidental. The club has built carefully around experience, star power, and familiarity, creating a structure that allows Messi to thrive while attracting names that resonate globally. Now, with Barcelona reassessing its future and Lewandowski weighing his final big move, Miami finds itself at the center of another potential soccer earthquake.

Speculation surrounding Lewandowski’s future at Barcelona has intensified in recent months. At 37, the Polish striker remains highly effective, but the Blaugrana is entering a phase of sporting and financial recalibration. The club is no longer willing to make emotional decisions, especially when age, salary, and squad balance are involved.

Thus, Lewandowski has already begun narrowing his options. Reports confirmed that he rejected a winter approach from Fenerbahce, despite the Turkish club offering a lucrative deal through 2027. According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, the striker made it clear that he has no intention of leaving Barca mid-season, a decision that sent a ripple effect through the European market.

Milan remains a quiet admirer, viewing Lewandowski as a potential free-agent opportunity next summer. But Europe is no longer the only stage capable of hosting his final act. In Poland, journalist Marek Jozwiak revealed a detail that shifted the narrative entirely. “Inter Miami — they were looking for a home for Robert Lewandowski. I received a message from someone who knows the file very well,” he said on Moc Futbolu. That single sentence spoke volumes. Inter Miami, it seems, is not merely monitoring the situation — it is preparing for it.

Inter Miami’s blueprint: Familiar faces, maximum impact

Inter Miami’s strategy has been consistent. Messi, Suarez, Busquets, and Jordi Alba formed the spine of a project built on trust, chemistry, and shared history. That formula delivered results, culminating in a historic MLS Cup triumph that further elevated the club’s global standing.

But time waits for no one. Busquets and Alba have stepped away, and Suarez’s contract situation remains unresolved. With one Designated Player slot still open alongside Messi and Rodrigo De Paul, Miami faces a pivotal decision. This is where Lewandowski enters the equation.

How Suarez could be the key

Midway through the story, the mystery finally lifts. Inter Miami’s internal view is that Robert Lewandowski could become Luis Suarez’s replacement — or even his partner in attack, depending on how the Uruguayan’s future unfolds.

This is not merely about replacing goals. It is about continuity at the elite level, ensuring that Messi continues to operate with a world-class finisher capable of converting moments into trophies. Lewandowski’s profile fits perfectly: leadership, ruthless efficiency, and global appeal.

As Lewandowski himself admitted when asked about a potential move outside Europe: “I don’t know if I will be in Barcelona or somewhere else. I will decide my future soon. The decision won’t depend only on sporting factors, but also on emotional ones.”

2025 will be remembered as the year Inter Miami won the Major League Soccer title for the first time. They are now looking to strengthen their squad for 2026, and according to reports, Lionel Messi recommended signing two La Liga stars.

“Leo Messi has conveyed to the sports management the need to bolster the midfield and attack,” a Fichajes report stated this week. “It is not about flashy signings but functional pieces.”

The two players reportedly recommended by the Argentine forward have stood out for years at Atletico Madrid, where they were Messi’s rivals during his time at Barcelona. The midfielder is Koke, while the forward is Antoine Griezmann, with whom Messi also played briefly.

“For Leo Messi, Koke represents order, tactical reading, and continuity in circulation. An ideal profile to support the team from the core of the game,” Fichajes adds. “Messi believes that Antoine Griezmann would be the perfect complement in attack. Mobility, intelligence, and the ability to link up in tight spaces.”

What is the situation of Koke and Griezmann at Atletico Madrid?

Koke is a historic player for Atletico Madrid. He has spent his entire career at the Spanish side, making his debut in 2009. Since then, the midfielder has played 706 matches, scoring 49 goals and winning 8 titles, including two La Liga trophies.

Now approaching 34 years old, Koke is near the end of his contract, which will expire in July 2026. He remains an important piece for head coach Diego Simeone, having started 15 of Atletico’s 22 matches in the 2025-26 season.

Antoine Griezmann’s situation is somewhat different. He will turn 35 in March and, although he is under contract with Atletico Madrid until June 30, 2027, his role in the team is no longer the same as in previous years. Across La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, the French forward has started just 8 matches this season, scoring 6 goals and providing 1 assist.

Inter Miami need new stars

Reports of Inter Miami’s supposed interest in signing Koke and Antoine Griezmann align with the squad’s needs. The end of the 2025 season also saw the departure of key players like Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, both retired, while uncertainty remains regarding other stars such as Tadeo Allende.

To replace Alba, the Herons secured the signing of Sergio Reguilon. However, they still need a central midfielder to replace Busquets, and Koke could fit perfectly alongside Rodrigo De Paul, with whom he played for years at Atletico Madrid.

Griezmann has different characteristics than Tadeo Allende. The French star is not a pacey winger like the Argentine player; over the years, he has evolved into forward with vision for distributing the ball and a frequent scoring presence. On Griezmann’s side, the experience of playing two seasons with Messi at Barcelona could help him integrate quickly into Inter Miami‘s structure.

Lionel Messi has been a central figure in Inter Miami’s rapid growth over the past few years, and the club is set to inaugurate Miami Freedom Park beginning with the 2026 season. Before that transition, however, the Herons will play one final match at Chase Stadium, bidding farewell to their longtime home ahead of the home debut in the Major League Soccer campaign.

Since 2020, Chase Stadium has served as Inter Miami’s home during the club’s early years, with a capacity of 21,550 fans, a venue that has since become undersized following Messi’s arrival. After hosting several defining moments in club history, the Herons will play one last official match at the stadium where they lifted multiple trophies.

Inter Miami will say goodbye to Chase Stadium on Tuesday, March 18, in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Having qualified directly for the Round of 16 after winning the MLS Cup, the Herons will face the winner of the matchup between MLS side Nashville SC and Canadian club Atlético Ottawa.

The first leg of the Round of 16 will be played on March 11, with Inter Miami on the road. The return leg the following week at Chase Stadium will mark the final appearance of Messi and his teammates at the Fort Lauderdale venue after celebrating the 2025 MLS Cup title.

When will Miami Freedom Park open?

A significant upgrade from Chase Stadium, Miami Freedom Park will become Inter Miami’s new home starting in the 2026 season. However, the club will not play its first match there until April, several weeks after the MLS season officially kicks off.

The first official match at Miami Freedom Park is scheduled for April 4, when Messi’s side will host Austin FC in league play. Inter Miami will open the season with four consecutive road matches against LAFC, Orlando City, D.C. United, and Charlotte FC before making their long-awaited debut at the new stadium.

Ousmane Dembélé has just been crowned the best player in the world by winning the 2025 Ballon d’Or. Although the Frenchman hasn’t started the 2025–26 season in top form due to injuries, he still managed to secure the 2025 The Best FIFA Men’s Player award, becoming the first French player to do so. Consequently, this feat sparked comparisons, recalling how long it took for Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to claim this prestigious honor.

With his performances during the 2024–25 season, Ousmane Dembélé managed to become the best player in the world, leading PSG to their first Champions League title along with multiple other trophies. As a result, the Frenchman not only won the 2025 Ballon d’Or but was also crowned the 2025 The Best FIFA Men’s Player, achieving it at 28 years old and becoming the first French player in the history of these awards to do so.

Unlike the Ballon d’Or, The Best FIFA Awards were first presented in 2017, which means there is a relatively short list of winners. Cristiano Ronaldo was the first winner in the history of these awards, thanks to his impact with Real Madrid and his victory at the 2016 UEFA Euro. As a result, the Portuguese won this award at 31 years old, already a veteran, but inaugurating the event and elevating its importance.

Lionel Messi, similar to Cristiano Ronaldo, won this award as a veteran. At 32 years old, the Argentine was crowned with his first The Best FIFA Men’s Player award due to his impact with FC Barcelona. That year, he beat Virgil van Dijk and Cristiano Ronaldo to secure his first victory. Even of both stars won the award as veterans, they were among the first players to win it, leaving a path for other stars to clinch it.

What is the current ranking of The Best FIFA Men’s Player winners?

The Best FIFA Men’s Player award may have a brief history, but many stars have already claimed this accolade. Cristiano Ronaldo may have won it twice in the early years, yet he does not hold the record for the most wins. Instead, he ties for second place with a surprising contender. Consequently, Ousmane Dembele joins this exclusive list, that Lionel Messi standing at its forefront.

Not only is it surprising that Messi has surpassed Cristiano as the all-time winner of The Best awards, but Robert Lewandowski also emerges as one of the most decorated players in the history of these honors, making it clear that his legacy stands alongside the greatest players of all time. Nevertheless, players such as Lamine Yamal or Kylian Mbappé could soon surpass them on this list, as they are much younger and are currently dominating the soccer world.

Although Manchester United have failed to establish themselves as one of the brightest teams in England, Bruno Fernandes has remained one of their best players. Leading the team, the Portuguese has established himself as one of the Premier League’s top players. Despite this, his future remains in doubt, making him decide to break the silence about the possibility of joining Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia.

“The person who spoke to me was the president of Al Hilal, who called me directly… They wanted me to play the Club World Cup with Al Hilal… I can’t complain, I earn very well, but obviously the difference is enormous. That was never what guided me. If one day I have to play in Arabia, I will play in Arabia. My lifestyle will change, my children’s life will be with sun, after six years in Manchester with cold and rain, I will play in a growing league,” Bruno Fernandes said, via Canal 11.

Bruno had consistently dismissed the idea of leaving Manchester United, but this summer, the Portuguese midfielder disclosed the club’s unexpected intentions, which prompted him to reconsider his stance. He might be enticed by the opportunity to join the Saudi Pro League, potentially reuniting with Cristiano after the 2026 World Cup. While Al Hilal showed interest, Ben Jacobs reports that Al Ittihad and Al Nassr were also keen on securing his services.

Far from perceiving his arrival in Saudi Arabia as a step backward, Bruno Fernandes believes that entering this league does not limit his level, citing Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Felix, and Ruben Neves as examples: “I believe that they went there to sign big contracts and still have the possibility of returning to Europe to play for big clubs, because of the quality they have and because they still go to the national team.”

Bruno and Cristiano could make an elite offense at Al Nassr

Although Cristiano Ronaldo hasn’t played the most games with Bruno Fernandes as a teammate, they’ve shown an incredible connection on the field. In 67 matches for Portugal, this pair has spearheaded the national team’s most successful era, featuring in two UEFA Nations League titles and combining for nine goals. Thus, the potential arrival of the 31-year-old star would significantly boost Al Nassr, creating a formidable offense led by Portuguese stars.

In case Manchester United remain open to selling Bruno Fernandes after the 2026 World Cup, Al Nassr could emerge as a top contender for his arrival. Not only could Cristiano’s presence, but also Joao Felix and Jorge Jesus, make a significant difference, as he would have a familiar entourage to shine. Moreover, he could boost the midfield alongside Brozovic and Angelo, providing the necessary balance for the team to succeed in winning titles.

The Red Devils may have considered selling the 31-year-old in the summer of 2025; however, Simon Stone of BBC Sport reports that the English club is no longer open to parting ways with its star. That said, Manchester United could be tempted if a suitable offer arrives that helps fund the squad rebuild INEOS is pursuing under head coach Ruben Amorim, paving the way for the arrival of new young players.

Match Overview

Barcelona open their Copa del Rey title defense with the weight of expectations firmly on its shoulders, entering the tournament in top form after setting the pace in La Liga and delivering steady results on multiple fronts this season.

The defending champions arrive as overwhelming favorites against CD Guadalajara, a Primera Federacion outfit that will try to turn the spotlight into an opportunity by challenging one of Spain’s most decorated clubs in a classic David-versus-Goliath matchup.

Match Overview

A tense cup clash is on deck as familiar rivals from opposite ends of the English football pyramid collide with a spot in the semifinals at stake. Chelsea bring top-flight pedigree and momentum into the contest, sitting fifth in the Premier League and carrying the look of a team built for deep runs, which makes the Blues the projected favorite heading in.

That said, Cardiff City won’t be intimidated, arriving as League One leaders with momentum and belief after a string of impressive performances. The underdogs see a rare opportunity to rewrite the script and push for a historic result, adding genuine intrigue to what promises to be a compelling battle—one fans won’t want to miss when the whistle blows.

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This Tuesday, The Best awards will be handed out, honoring the top male and female players in world soccer for 2025. The ceremony takes place just months after the Ballon d’Or was awarded, the sport’s other major individual prize. That timing naturally raises an obvious question: what is the difference between the two awards?

The first major contrast has to do with who organizes each prize. The Best is FIFA’s official award. FIFA is the governing body that oversees all national soccer federations worldwide and is also responsible for organizing some of the sport’s most important tournaments, including the World Cup.

By contrast, the Ballon d’Or was created by France Football magazine, which means it has no official connection to the organization of soccer competitions and tournaments at the global level.

Another difference between the two trophies is the time period each one considers when selecting its winners. While the Ballon d’Or follows the calendar of Europe’s top leagues—generally starting in September and ending the following summer—The Best is based on the calendar year, from January to December.

The voting system of The Best and Ballon d’Or

Perhaps the most significant difference between the two awards is the voting process. France Football awards the Ballon d’Or based solely on a vote by journalists. Each of the top 100 countries in the FIFA men’s soccer rankings is represented by one journalist, and those votes are used to calculate the final results.

FIFA’s system, on the other hand, is a mixed voting model. The total score used to determine the winners is divided into four equal parts: national team head coaches, national team captains, a panel of media representatives, and fan voting. Each group accounts for 25 percent of the total score, and the final results are calculated by combining all four components.

FIFA and France Football once shared an award

The Ballon d’Or holds a clear advantage over The Best when it comes to history. France Football created the award in 1956, and it has only grown in prestige and global recognition ever since. FIFA’s trophy, by comparison, is much newer, having been introduced in its current name and format in 2016.

However, there was a period when both awards were combined into one. In 2010, FIFA and France Football reached an agreement to merge their annual ceremonies and created the FIFA Ballon d’Or. That partnership lasted just six years, through the 2015 ceremony. After that, FIFA launched The Best, while the Ballon d’Or returned to its traditional format under the sole organization of France Football.

Ballon d’Or and The Best share the same dominant figure

Despite their differences, the Ballon d’Or and The Best share one major similarity: both have been dominated by the same player. Lionel Messi is the most decorated winner in the history of both awards, with eight Ballon d’Or trophies awarded by France Football and three The Best honors from FIFA. Notably, he won four of the six editions that were jointly organized.

The player with the second-most trophies is also the same in both awards: Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese star won the Ballon d’Or five times and The Best twice. In the latter, he shares that distinction with Robert Lewandowski.

Bruno Fernandes has emerged as a key figure for Manchester United, maintaining his role as one of the team’s most crucial players despite the club’s ongoing crisis. Surprisingly, however, the Portuguese midfielder revealed unsettling details about his future with the club, shedding light on Red Devils’ questionable plans with a surprising team showed interest in him. In response, he has issued a strong statement regarding his position.

During Bruno’s five years at Manchester United, the Portuguese player has been tempted on numerous occasions by different teams. Despite the Red Devils never recovering their best form, Fernandes chose to remain at the club, missing major opportunities to shine with highly competitive teams. Far from appreciating this loyalty, the 31-year-old star revealed that the English club wanted to sell him in the summer of 2025.

“The club wanted me to GO [in the summer], I have that in my head. I told the directors this, but I think they didn’t have the COURAGE to make that decision. I decided to stay, also because of family reasons, but because I genuinely like the club. The conversation with the manager also made me stay. But, from the club’s side, I felt a bit like, ‘if you leave, it’s not so bad for us.’ It hurts me a lot. More than hurting, it makes me sad,” Bruno Fernandes expressed, via Canal 11.

Not only did Bruno reveal Manchester United’s intentions, but he also added details about Al Hilal’s interest in his services. “The president of Al Hilal spoke to me. He called me directly… They wanted him to play in the Club World Cup… I can’t complain, I’m very well paid, but obviously the difference is huge. That was never what guided me. If one day I have to play in Saudi Arabia, I’ll play in Saudi Arabia,” Bruno Fernandes said, via Canal 11.

Bruno Fernandes has reportedly decided on his future at Manchester United

Unlike in previous years, Bruno Fernandes has left the door open for a potential departure from Manchester United, fueling significant uncertainty about his future with the club. As a seasoned veteran, the Portuguese star might consider the lucrative financial opportunities presented by the Saudi Pro League. In this context, the 31-year-old has reportedly made a decisive choice about his career, prioritizing specific objectives.

According to Simon Stone of BBC Sport, neither Bruno Fernandes nor Manchester United plan to part ways at a professional level. The Portuguese star still wants to win major titles with the club, and the Red Devils consider him a key piece in their future plans, now ruling out a move to Saudi Arabia. With a contract running until 2027 plus an optional extra year, the 31-year-old star appears to be on track to become a legendary figure in the club’s history.

Lamine Yamal has emerged as one of FC Barcelona’s brightest revelations in recent years, arriving at a crucial moment as the club continues to battle serious financial constraints. Now firmly established as one of the team’s cornerstone players, Yamal could soon find himself affected by a major managerial shake-up, as reports suggest a historic billionaire offer could be on the table for the club.

One of the most pressing issues Barcelona have faced in recent years, and one that even contributed to the departure of club legend Lionel Messi, has been their fragile financial situation. Massive transfer spending, an inflated wage bill, and the ambitious Camp Nou redevelopment project have pushed the club to the brink, creating a debt crisis that may soon force transformative decisions.

According to El Chiringuito journalist François Gallardo, Saudi Arabian crown prince Mohammed bin Salman is preparing a €10 billion offer to purchase FC Barcelona. After making a significant investment in the Premier League through the Public Investment Fund’s acquisition of Newcastle United, Saudi leadership has reportedly identified the Catalan giants as a potential next target.

In Forbes’ 2024 ranking of the world’s most valuable soccer clubs, Barcelona placed third with a valuation of $5.6 billion, trailing only Manchester United ($6.55B) and Real Madrid ($6.6B). With club debt exceeding $2.5 billion and ongoing struggles to meet registration requirements without securing new sponsorships, a potential takeover could represent a financial lifeline for the institution.

Already asserting influence in Formula 1 and boxing, Saudi Arabia has made an aggressive push to establish itself as a global power in soccer. That effort has included heavy investment in the Saudi Pro League, headlined by Cristiano Ronaldo and other international stars, as well as securing hosting rights for the 2034 World Cup. Within that broader expansion strategy, a move for Barcelona would be unprecedented but transformative.

Bin Salman facing multiple obstacles in potential Barcelona takeover

Despite generating some of the highest annual revenues in world soccer, Barcelona’s mounting debt has severely limited its spending power, allowing just €23 million in transfer expenditures during the most recent window. With Mohammed bin Salman’s reported personal wealth estimated at $25 billion (and his family’s assets approaching $1.3 trillion) the financial burden itself would not be a major obstacle.

The primary challenge, however, lies in Barcelona’s ownership structure. Like Real Madrid, Athletic Club, and Osasuna, Barcelona is owned by its socios, or club members, rather than a private individual or corporation. These members elect the club president and play a central role in determining the club’s future direction.

For a €10 billion takeover bid to move forward, Barcelona would first need approval from its board, followed by a vote from its membership to fundamentally alter the ownership model. While such a shift remains highly unlikely given the club’s history and identity, the severity of Barcelona’s financial situation means the possibility may no longer be automatically dismissed.

Most of Lionel Messi’s teammates from Argentina’s iconic 2022 World Cup triumph have maintained their level and are expected to feature again in 2026. However, one of the players who lifted the World Cup after turning down a lucrative offer from Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi Pro League is now reportedly set to see his contract expire at the end of the 2025-26 season.

The start of the season has been far from ideal for Paulo Dybala. The Argentine star has struggled with fitness issues and, as a result, has gradually lost his starting role at AS Roma. Under new head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, Roma have taken a new direction, leaving Dybala, once considered the team’s untouchable centerpiece, in a reduced role on the bench and casting doubt over his future.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Dybala is expected to leave Roma as a free agent at the end of the season. The World Cup winner joined the Italian capital club in 2022 on a four-year deal, but with his role now limited under Gasperini, Roma’s leadership is reportedly not planning to offer him a new contract at this stage.

After seven seasons at Juventus, Roma supporters welcomed Dybala with a massive reception, viewing him as the club’s new star and highest-paid player, earning €7.5 million plus €2 million in add-ons. However, he has now started the last four matches on the bench, and in Monday’s 1-0 win over Como, he remained unused for all 90 minutes, underscoring his diminished role within the squad.

Gasperini was asked about Dybala’s absence in the post-match press conference and explained why the Argentine never entered the match: “I usually make all five substitutions, but tonight it was difficult to change anything. That should also serve as motivation for Paulo, who is an extraordinary player.“

With Roma set to face Juventus next Sunday, Gasperini also addressed what he will consider when deciding whether to use Dybala. “When he’s fit and gets going — he dribbles, shoots — there’s no one in Italy with his quality. Maybe he’ll be ready for Sunday, even for a match against his former club. We’ll see how he trains,” he added, showing no urgency to rush him back into the lineup.

Dybala rejected a millionaire offer from Saudi Arabia

Dybala has been one of the most prominent figures in Italian soccer in recent years, not only for his goals and assists but also for his flair and creativity on the pitch. Roma have relied on him as both the leader of the sporting project and a key marketing figure, but with a €12 million release clause for foreign clubs, his future has remained uncertain.

A potential departure emerged in August 2024, when Saudi Pro League side Al Qadsiah offered Dybala a reported €75 million deal spread over three seasons, which would have made him another marquee name in the Middle East alongside Cristiano Ronaldo. The Saudi club was even willing to exceed his release clause, but Dybala ultimately rejected the offer, citing his family, the city of Rome, the team, and his desire to return to the Argentina national team.

In an interview with the Los Edul YouTube channel, the former Messi teammate in Argentina opened up about his decision: “It’s not as easy as it seems — it changes everything. The plane was in Rome for three days. It’s true, and I won’t lie, the figures are mentioned, but when you see them written on a piece of paper — that if you sign it, it’s yours — so many numbers go through your mind.“

Neymar emerged as Santos’ hero at the end of the 2025 season, delivering a string of standout performances that helped the club avoid relegation and secure a place in the Copa Sudamericana for next year. With his contract set to expire in less than a month and his sights firmly set on a return to the Brazilian national team for the 2026 World Cup, details of Neymar’s recovery plan from his knee injury have now reportedly come to light.

Santos’ survival was not driven solely by Neymar’s impact on the pitch, but also by his resilience in playing through discomfort. The star forward wore three layers of protection on his left knee to ensure stability and manage pain, yet still played a decisive role in lifting the club to a 12th-place finish in the Brasileirão. With the season now complete, the next phase of his recovery is set to begin.

According to Globo Esporte, Neymar, currently on vacation in the United States, will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his left knee to correct a meniscus fraying. Because the issue is not a full tear, the expected recovery timeline is up to one month, allowing him to begin 2026 with a clear rehabilitation schedule.

The Brazilian outlet reports that Neymar plans to undergo the procedure before resolving his contractual situation with Santos. His father is expected to meet with club president Marcelo Teixeira in the coming weeks to discuss an extension, a move that would likely keep Neymar at the club for at least six more months leading into the World Cup.

As a result of the surgery, Neymar is expected to miss the opening days of Santos’ preseason, with players scheduled to report back on January 2. The club’s first official match of 2026 is set for January 11 against Novorizontino in the Campeonato Paulista, though it remains uncertain whether Neymar will be fit to feature.

Brazil’s next international window is in March, making the early months of 2026 critical for Neymar as he works to regain full fitness and earn a recall to the national team. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti recently suggested that selection would be based strictly on form, stating that if Neymar is at the same level—or better—than other options, he will be called up, adding further intrigue to what could be the final major tournament of his international career.

Neymar building momentum for 2026 with Santos

Since returning in February, Neymar appeared in 28 matches for Santos during the 2025 season, scoring 11 goals and adding four assists, while missing 17 games due to injury. Still, his late-season streak of five goals and one assist in the final four matches proved decisive in avoiding relegation and reignited optimism around his future.

Under head coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda, Neymar has rediscovered his role within the team, and Santos’ 12th-place finish secured qualification for the Copa Sudamericana. With the opportunity to compete against top continental opposition alongside domestic play, the club is now eager to have Neymar fully fit and leading the project as soon as possible.

Marc-André ter Stegen has been FC Barcelona’s starting goalkeeper for several years, but a long-term injury last season kept him sidelined for more than a year. Now fully fit and pushing for his return ahead of Barcelona’s Copa del Rey debut, the German goalkeeper faces uncertainty after head coach Hansi Flick outlined his plans for the position.

Ter Stegen suffered a serious knee injury last season against Villarreal, which ruled him out for the remainder of the campaign. Ahead of the 2025–26 season, however, a separate back issue emerged, requiring surgery and allowing Barcelona to register Joan García as a new signing while Ter Stegen remained unavailable.

With Ter Stegen now recovered, Flick was asked whether the former No. 1 could return for the Copa del Rey match, especially with García expected to be rested: “Marc is an amazing goalkeeper, and we have 3 of them. We’ll see what happens, my words were clear, Joan is the number 1 goalkeeper, so then we’ll see what happens.“

Flick confirmed García would be rested, noting that the starting goalkeeper would be announced on matchday. “(Wojciech) Szczesny had a great season and we won 3 titles with him, as well as well as doing well this season during the injury of Joan Garcia, and gave us stability. For me, Szczesny is an important player for us, not only on the pitch, but also off it,” the coach stated over the Polish keeper.

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, a lack of playing time at club level could become a setback for Ter Stegen, who is eager to remain part of Germany’s plans. Asked whether the goalkeeper would be willing to stay despite limited minutes, Flick was direct: “I think that’s his decision, we’ve talked about his situation. I respect Marc because he’s an amazing goalkeeper, he’s an important person for the team as well. But that remains his decision, he’s the one who makes it.“

Flick’s comments offered little reassurance regarding Ter Stegen’s long-term role after several seasons as a key figure at the club. According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are open to the possibility of loaning out the goalkeeper if no clear path to minutes emerges, leaving the final decision in Ter Stegen’s hands.

Flick focused on Copa del Rey objective

Barcelona will visit CD Guadalajara on Tuesday in the round of 32 of the 2025–26 Copa del Rey, with the Blaugrana heavy favorites against the third-division side. Flick referenced last season’s 4-0 win over Barbastro as an example of the focus required to avoid underestimating lower-tier opposition.

After lifting the trophy last season with an epic win over Real Madrid in the final, Flick was asked about the competition, and the coach made it clear that the Copa del Rey is one of Barcelona’s goals this season. “We have to win this match. We’re playing in La Liga, and we’re favorites to win the Copa del Rey. We have to show that. We have the high quality, and we want to show it.”

Ruben Amorim has struggled to find consistency at Manchester United, working with a thinner squad than last season after the club failed to qualify for European competition. In an effort to push back toward the top of the Premier League table, the Portuguese manager is reportedly targeting a USMNT star already playing in the Premier League.

United have delivered strong performances against several teams near the top of the table, only to drop points against lower-ranked opponents due to a lack of balance. One of the main concerns within the squad has been the midfield, where Amorim has limited options that truly fit his system, prompting the club to explore reinforcements.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Tyler Adams is being considered as a potential target for Manchester United. After battling back issues last season, the USMNT midfielder has re-established himself as a regular starter at AFC Bournemouth, one of last year’s surprise teams, and is viewed as a strong tactical fit for Amorim’s approach.

Timing, however, remains a key obstacle. After losing several important players in recent windows, such as Dean Huijsen, Milos Kerkez, and Ilya Zabarnyi, Bournemouth are reluctant to part with another core contributor midway through the season, especially while battling in the lower half of the Premier League table.

Under those circumstances, a winter move for Adams, valued at €25 million by Transfermarkt, appears unlikely unless a unique opportunity arises. A deal could instead be revisited for the 2026–27 season. If completed, Adams would become just the fourth USMNT player to feature for Manchester United, following Jim Brown, Jonathan Spector, and most recently Tim Howard.

Manchester United’s midfield concerns

With Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro often tasked with anchoring the midfield, Amorim has struggled to find defensive stability, as United have conceded 26 goals in 16 Premier League matches. Manuel Ugarte has fallen out of favor, while uncertainty surrounding Kobbie Mainoo’s future has only intensified the need for reinforcements, particularly ahead of the winter transfer window.

Romano reports that Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton are also on United’s radar. However, their current importance to their clubs and high transfer fees make them more realistic targets for next season. With January approaching and immediate solutions needed, Adams has emerged as one of the more attainable options to address a growing problem.

Despite being 37 years old, Robert Lewandowski continues to play a crucial role for Barcelona, consistently maintaining a strong scoring rate. However, the Polish player’s contract expires at the end of the 2025-26 season, and discussions about a renewal have yet to take place, leaving his future uncertain. To bridge this gap, the striker’s agent reportedly met with Barcelona to convey Lewandowski’s intentions and propose a solution.

According to Diario Sport, Pini Zahavi, Robert Lewandowski’s agent, met with Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta, to discuss the Polish striker’s future. During the two-hour meeting, Zahavi emphasized that the veteran striker is eager to stay at Barcelona beyond June 2026, citing his peak physical condition as a key factor. The report also notes Lewandowski’s willingness to lower his salary expectations to continue with the team.

Lewandowski’s performance in the 2025-26 season raises numerous doubts about his contract renewal. After 17 games, the Polish striker has scored 8 goals, a significant drop from his previous season’s record. However, if the 37-year-old star agrees to a rotational role, a one-season contract extension could offer the team some temporary relief.

As a leader in the dressing room, Robert has remained a key player in Hansi Flick’s team, with him still considering the Polish as one of the most dangerous strikers in the world. Additionally, Lewandowski’s experience could make the difference in the big stages. However, the Polish player’s injuries this season mean that the club is taking its time and avoiding any hasty decisions.

Robert Lewandowski still needs to regain his impact at Barcelona

Unlike in previous seasons, Robert Lewandowski has struggled to make an impact with Barcelona. As he deals with physical issues, he has taken time to regain his scoring rhythm, placing him outside the top three goalscorers in LaLiga this season. If the veteran wants to remain with the team, he must rediscover his effectiveness in front of goal—something that has been missing this season.

Lewandowski’s continuity at Barcelona could reshape priorities

If Robert Lewandowski manages to reach an agreement with Barcelona for his renewal, the team could refocus its transfer market objectives. With Ferran in top-scoring form, the Polish striker as a game changer could alleviate the team’s doubts, allowing them to focus on strengthening the defense and the left wing, which could become an absolute priority.

With uncertainty surrounding Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen, Barcelona could look for a left-footed center back to maintain the balance lost with the departure of Iñigo Martinez. Therefore, the team could target a world-class player in that position, along with the signing of a young left winger. In case Lewandowski does not stay, the club would be forced to strengthen its attack, changing its priorities and not pursuing team stability.

Bruno Fernandes has successfully transitioned from an attacking midfielder to one of the key players for Manchester United‘s consistency. Since the arrival of Ruben Amorim, the Portuguese has been part of a double pivot alongside Casemiro. While this change has been crucial for the team, it has also resulted in Kobbie Mainoo being relegated to a secondary role, despite being one of the club’s most promising talents.

At just 20 years old, Kobbie Mainoo emerged in 2023 as one of Manchester United‘s most impressive players. Not only did he contribute as a defensive midfielder, but he also shone as a box-to-box midfielder, coming to be considered the future of the team. Although Bruno Fernandes had established himself as a key player in the attacking midfield, the coach decided to move him to the double pivot, leaving no room for the young player.

According to Fabrizio Romano, coach Ruben Amorim was asked about the reason for the lack of playing time, and he replied, “Kobbie Mainoo plays in the same position as Bruno Fernandes, and it’s difficult to take him off the team.” Then, he added: “The problem is that we are playing with a two and you guys see Kobbie in a different way than I’m seeing. Maybe if you play with three midfielders, not with just two, Kobbie will have more minutes.”

Due to his youth, Kobbie Mainoo could be tempted to leave Manchester United as early as January 2026 or by June 2026 at the latest. Faced with this possibility, fans are comparing his potential departure to that of Scott McTominay, who became one of the best players in Serie A after leaving the Red Devils, and there are fears that the same could happen to the 20-year-old star, as he has shown the potential to make a difference.

Kobbie Mainoo set to get chance at Manchester United due to AFCON

Kobbie Mainoo, who traditionally does not have many chances to play a leading role, may find his opportunity with the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The departure of Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo and Noussair Mazraoui will reportedly prompt coach Ruben Amorim to make significant adjustments to his lineup. As a result, Mainoo might be facing his best chance to turn his situation around and secure his place at Manchester United.

According to Laurie Whitwell in The Athletic, the impending absence of Mbeumo, Diallo, and Mazraoui has prompted Ruben Amorim to adjust his tactical scheme to a 4-3-3, bolstering the midfield with three players. In this setup, Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes will remain, but Mainoo may compete for a spot in the lineup with Manuel Ugarte. As a result, the 20-year-old star could aim to secure playing time ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

If Kobbie does not secure enough playing time, several Premier League teams, as well as Napoli and Barcelona, are reportedly interested in acquiring him. Nonetheless, The Guardian reports that Manchester United remain firmly against a potential departure of the 20-year-old star in January 2026, as they believe he has a bright future with the team.

Tickets for the 2026 World Cup have become a major point of discussion, not only because of the system FIFA implemented for fans to purchase them, but also due to the exorbitant prices following their release. As supporters debate how they will afford a trip to North America, the organization led by Gianni Infantino could ultimately face a boycott from England fans.

As reported by The Telegraph, the Football Association is facing growing pressure from England supporters to lead a boycott over World Cup ticket pricing. The main driver behind the movement is the steep costs FIFA has set across the various stages of the tournament.

In recent days, Football Supporters Europe (FSE) released a statement expressing concern over the situation, and an England Supporters Travel Club member has since written to the FA highlighting the lack of dialogue with fans. The governing body is now planning discussions with tournament organizers in an effort to address the issue.

“If true leadership was shown, and support for the fans who fuel the game with their passion, commitment and, yes, their money (with no FFP laws protecting us), the FA and other Football Associations participating next year would refuse their ticketing allocations, in order to make FIFA think again,” read part of the letter sent to the FA.

According to FSE, the minimum amount fans would need to pay to follow their national team from the opening match through the final is $6,900, not including premium seating. For a fan base as passionate as England’s, the letter, which was also shared on social media, highlighted how family vacations and long-term plans have been jeopardized, as the prices far exceed expected budgets.

The Football Supporters’ Association has previously accused FIFA president Gianni Infantino of exploiting fan loyalty to maximize revenue through rising ticket prices following the 2022 World Cup. Compared to four years earlier, the total cost to attend matches from the group stage through the final averaged around $1,600, but has now increased nearly fivefold, fueling frustration among fans worldwide, particularly in England, where a boycott could encourage similar action from other nations.

2026 World Cup still drawing interest despite high prices

Hosting the World Cup in North America has drawn criticism not only over ticket pricing, but also over soaring accommodation costs, as following confirmation of venues and matchups, hotel prices have risen sharply across Mexico, Canada, and the United States. Despite these challenges altering how fans plan to attend the tournament, interest in the World Cup remains strong, as reflected in ticket demand.

Last Thursday, FIFA opened the third ticket sales phase for the tournament, with group-stage matches already attracting significant international interest. Excluding host nations, Colombia led all countries with 367,376 ticket applications, followed by England (140,291) and Germany (138,246), with Brazil (101,576) and Argentina (101,056) rounding out the top five.

The most requested match among the confirmed group-stage fixtures was Colombia vs. Portugal on June 27 in Miami. Other highly sought-after games included Brazil vs. Morocco, Mexico vs. South Korea, Ecuador vs. Germany, and Scotland vs. Brazil, featuring nine national teams across five different continents.

Mohamed Salah has returned to action on the pitch with Liverpool, coming off the bench in the victory against Brighton & Hove Albion. Despite this, the situation between the player and the Reds remains tense, leaving his future up in the air. Although he has a contract until 2027, his future seems tied to the English team, but several teams are already interested in the Egyptian, with one destination in particular reportedly standing out.

According to TEAMtalk, several clubs in France, Italy, Germany, Spain, and the United States are keeping a close eye on Mohamed Salah. Despite this widespread interest, the Egyptian forward has a favored destination should he decide to leave Liverpool: Saudi Arabia. Not only would the financial aspect be a key factor, but the Saudi Pro League would also offer a very appealing project built around him, making his arrival highly attractive.

While the Egyptian player is considering a possible departure from the team, Liverpool appear to have other plans. According to The Athletic, the Reds are not willing to let the veteran leave in January 2026, as Arne Slot is relying on him for the team’s rotation. His exit would compromise the team’s goals for the season. In fact, they are not planning to sign a replacement in January 2026 to cover for the 33-year-old star, making his continued presence until the end of the season.

With a contract at Liverpool running until 2027, Mohamed Salah’s departure from the team presents a significant challenge. Having recently finished the 2024-25 season as the Premier League’s top scorer, any Saudi Arabian team aiming to secure his services would likely need to offer a substantial transfer fee, as the Reds are keen to avoid losing him as a free agent. Despite this, the tense situation between both parties means all options remain on the table.

Arne Slot shift to renovated lineup without Salah as cornerstone

Mohamed Salah seems to have reintegrated into Liverpool’s rhythm, but coach Arne Slot has opted for a radical change in his system, moving away from using the Egyptian as the team’s cornerstone. To improve defensive consistency, the team has prioritized wingers who can contribute defensively, such as Dominik Szoboszlai or Florian Wirtz. Alongside this change, the Reds no longer have a single cornerstone, instead emphasizing collective play.

Due to his impressive physical ability, Salah remains a highly valuable profile for certain matches. Starting from the right wing, his speed and ability to create space make him a player who still has a role in the team, though no longer as a star around whom the game revolves. Additionally, the Reds reportedly plan to target a versatile winger with defensive capabilities for the 2026-27 season.

Sergio Reguilón was announced as a new Inter Miami player on Monday after signing his contract to replace Jordi Alba in the vacant left back role. Despite being a product of Real Madrid’s academy, Reguilón opened up about the special motivation of playing alongside global superstar Lionel Messi.

After joining Fundación Real Madrid at just nine years old, Reguilón emerged as a potential long-term successor to Alba with the Spanish national team following his early breakthrough. A strong loan spell at Sevilla led to a €30 million move to Tottenham Hotspur at age 23, but inconsistent form and several loan stints prevented him from reaching his full potential, and now the left back is looking to revive his career in MLS.

In his first words as a Heron, Reguilón explained the reasons behind his decision to join the Fort Lauderdale-based club. “I think it’s a very ambitious project. It’s a club that’s doing things very well. They’re the current champions, and that’s what attracts me—winning teams. Both the people at the club and the owners are doing a great job, and that shows,” he said in an interview with Inter Miami.

According to Fabrizio Romano, several La Liga clubs showed interest in signing Reguilón as a free agent after his contract expired last June, including lucrative offers from Iran worth €4 million net per season. However, the left back had always been eager to join Inter Miami, which began negotiations with him last October before finalizing the deal.

Despite his Real Madrid background, Reguilón also highlighted the opportunity to play alongside Lionel Messi as a major factor in his decision. “It’s a really exciting reason to come here: to keep winning and keep competing. I won’t lie—coming here to play with Leo is an extra motivation,” he added.

Since his contract expired in June, Reguilón has not played a competitive match, but that was not seen as a concern by either the player or the club. Now eager to claim the starting left back role in 2026, he said: “I’m really eager to get started, because I’m coming off a few difficult months, and all I want is to compete on the field, give my best, and be happy on the pitch—which is the best thing in life.”

Reguilón and MLS growth

In recent years, Major League Soccer has increasingly attracted European players not only at the tail end of their careers, but also during their prime. One notable example is Son Heung-min, who completed a move to LAFC at age 33 after winning the UEFA Europa League with Tottenham, despite having multiple offers to remain in Europe.

Reguilón was asked about MLS’s growth and spoke about how the league’s rising profile—boosted in part by Messi’s arrival—has captured global attention. “For example, in Spain I have many friends who follow it, and honestly it’s a league that’s on the rise and doing things very well. In terms of exposure, it keeps growing. It’s becoming more competitive, and that’s also what draws me to it,” he concluded.

After three consecutive victories, AC Milan entered the game against Sassuolo needing a win to secure the Serie A lead. However, the Rossoneri suffered a surprising draw that cost them the top spot to Inter Milan. Following the game, coach Massimiliano Allegri explained the reason that lead him to substitute Christian Pulisic, despite the player’s impressive scoring prowess and the team’s need to secure a victory.

“Christian had joined us in Turin after a fever and then trained. He played well for 72 minutes, but at that moment, we needed one more midfielder. Loftus-Cheek held firm up front, but we had to defend better, especially for the second goal. We had to follow Laurienté, and it was too easy for them to score… Today he played a good game, as in Turin. He was decisive for the second goal; he had a chance in the final minutes. He was very good,” Allegri said, via DAZN.

Far from trying to maintain a constant attacking rhythm, Allegri preferred to sacrifice Pulisic in the attack, looking for more stability in midfield with Samuele Ricci. However, everything went the opposite way. Just four minutes after this change, the Rossoneri conceded the second goal and failed to create impactful attacking chances in the absence of the USMNT star, with only Davide Bartesaghi shining at a scoring level by netting a brace.

Massimiliano Allegri has managed to enhance AC Milan’s performances despite not having a sufficiently competitive roster. While they do have a solid midfield with several alternatives, the defensive line and the attacking front remain limited in options, making matches quite unpredictable. Nevertheless, the Rossoneri are aiming to improve the roster in January 2026 to enhance Christian Pulisic’s impact, reports La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Christian Pulisic’s future hinges on AC Milan progress in the upcoming months

With a contract lasting until 2027, AC Milan aim to convince Pulisic to sign an extension before he enters the final year of his current deal. The USMNT star decides not to rush into any decisions and reportedly sets a key condition: The team must qualify for the UEFA Champions League. With this in mind, the Rossoneri to bolster their defense with experienced players like Thiago Silva and Thomas Kristensen, and to enhance their attack eyeing two Premier League stars.

Since joining AC Milan, Pulisic has reached peak form, making a significant impact both in scoring and creativity. Over 113 games, the USMNT star has netted 41 goals and provided 25 assists. However, his influence extends beyond these statistics, as he serves as the team’s attacking focal point and generates the majority of offensive opportunities through his dynamic play.

While Rafael Leao has elevated his performance alongside the USMNT star, coach Allegri might seek a center-forward who excels in winning aerial duels and is physically imposing to capitalize on more scoring opportunities, thus enhancing the team’s efficiency. Should this signing materialize, the Italian team could achieve a much stronger offensive presence, aligning with the potential contract renewal of Christian Pulisic within a solid project.

Match Overview

FC Porto head into this weekend’s Primeira Liga showdown knowing the margin for error is slim at the top of the standings. With Benfica and Sporting already collecting wins this Matchday, the league leaders need a strong performance to keep control of the title race.

Across the pitch, Estrela arrive under pressure of their own, stuck on 14 points and hovering dangerously close to the relegation playoff zone, a position that leaves little room for mistakes. The contrast in objectives sets up a compelling battle with major implications at both ends of the table.

Match Overview

Manchester United arrive at this Premier League clash knowing they can pick an European cup spot. Three points would bring the Red Devils even with Chelsea in the race for the final Champions League position, even if the goal-difference edge still sits elsewhere, adding extra urgency to the afternoon.

Standing in the way are Bournemouth, a team whose season has been marked by inconsistency but also by the ability to strike quickly and cause problems with speed and attacking intent. This matchup carries real weight—make sure you tune in and don’t miss a minute of the action.

Lionel Messi managed to lead Inter Miami into their golden era, guiding the team to its first three titles, including the long-awaited MLS Cup. Despite this, Jordi Alba’s retirement posed a major challenge for the team, as they lost a key attacking partner for the Argentine. Nevertheless, the Herons moved quickly and completed the signing of Sergio Reguilón as a free agent to strengthen the left-back position after Jordi Alba’s retirement.

After spending several months as a free agent, Sergio Reguilón has become Inter Miami’s newest star. At just 28 years old, the Spaniard joins the Herons in search of the much-needed continuity he has lacked in recent years. With a contract extending through December 2027, he aims to cement his legacy in the MLS by pursuing more titles and rediscovering the form he displayed at Real Madrid and Sevilla FC.

Unlike Jordi Alba, Sergio Reguilon joins Inter Miami, creating more doubts than assurances. He logged only 316 minutes in the 2024-25 season and was recently excluded from Tottenham Hotspur’s plans. Despite these setbacks, the Spaniard has demonstrated exceptional offensive prowess, making him a promising fit for coach Javier Mascherano, who seeks outstanding performance from the left back position.

With hopes placed on Reguilón regaining his impressive level, Inter Miami hold an option to extend the Spaniard’s contract through 2028. As he is a player in his prime years, there is an expectation that Javier Mascherano can help him recover the level that led him to shine in LaLiga and the UEFA Europa League with Sevilla. Despite this, the biggest challenge will be regaining his competitive rhythm while fighting to prove his worth at the same time.

Inter Miami reportedly accelerate roster rebuild ahead of 2026 MLS season

Far from wanting to keep their roster intact, Inter Miami have remained very active at the end of the season, undergoing several departures from their 2025 MLS Cup–winning squad. Not only have the retirements of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets occurred, but Fafa Picault, William Yarbrough, and Ryan Sailor have also left the team. Along with them, Marcelo Weigandt and Allen Obando will not continue after their loan spells.

These absences in the squad are aimed at opening space for new figures to arrive and improve the overall performance of the team. In addition, the Herons have reportedly reached an agreement to keep Luis Suárez through December 2026, ruling out a move for Timo Werner. Despite this, Inter Miami have reportedly reached a verbal agreement for Facundo Mura, a right back who arrives as a free agent from Racing de Avellaneda.

With a large part of the offseason still ahead, Inter Miami could make more moves to reinforce their defensive line, midfield, and even the attack, as Javier Mascherano already complained during the 2025 season that his roster was quite limited. Therefore, the Herons continue to show Lionel Messi that their sporting project aims to remain competitive.

Defying all expectations, Thiago Silva has remained one of the most competitive center backs, excelling at both Chelsea and Fluminense as a veteran player. Despite his high level of play, he has reportedly decided to leave the Brazilian team in January 2026. As he looks to define his future, Silva has set forth a series of conditions for his next professional destination, which brings him closer to a short-term move to AC Milan.

According to GeGlobo, Thiago Silva has decided to leave Fluminense with the clear objective of securing a spot at the 2026 World Cup with Brazil. Because of this, the veteran has set his main goal as a return to European leagues, as he believes it would give him more chances to be seen by coach Carlo Ancelotti as a possible fit for the national team. With this in mind, the Brazilian could benefit from a potential move to AC Milan.

Although Allegri has Matteo Gabbia, Fikayo Tomori, and Strahinja Pavlovic as key pieces, the coach appears willing to look for depth on the bench, as only Koni De Winter and David Odogu come in as rotation options, with neither having experience like Thiago Silva to maintain consistency at the back. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Rossoneri are looking to reinforce the team’s defense, along with the forward line, in the January 2026 transfer window.

With his extensive experience, Thiago Silva could be the ideal reinforcement for AC Milan’s defensive line, which is seeking depth and rotation. If coach Allegri is able to offer him an important role, he could be a key piece in leading a team that has not found a level of consistency that makes a real difference, something he proved not long ago at Chelsea, where he was instrumental in winning the Champions League title.

Thiago Silva reveals his post-retirement soccer professional path

Thiago Silva has successfully maintained peak physical condition, steering clear of serious injuries that could impair his performance on the pitch. Although he is pursuing a ‘last dance’ in European soccer, his 41 years suggest that professional retirement might be closer than anticipated. Instead of setting a date for his farewell, the Brazilian has outlined a distinct professional future connected to soccer, establishing a compelling objective for himself.

In his recent interview with L’Equipe, Thiago revealed that he plans to become a coach when he retires from soccer, despite not yet thinking about his professional retirement. Along with this, the Brazilian star confessed that he will set himself the objective of coaching every club he played for, making Porto, Fluminense, Chelsea, PSG, and AC Milan his future goals as he looks to write more chapters in his professional legacy.

Toluca captured the Torneo Apertura title with a dramatic victory over Tigres UANL, decided in a 12-round penalty shootout in the 2025 Liga MX final. After securing yet another trophy this year, Los Diablos Rojos joined an exclusive club in league history with the championship.

After a 1-0 loss in the first leg, Toluca were forced to mount a comeback at home on Sunday. The match initially swung in Tigres’ favor when club legend André-Pierre Gignac took a free kick in the 14th minute that deflected off Fernando Gorriarán and found the net, leaving the hosts needing two goals to force extra time.

Unwilling to go quietly, Toluca pressed forward and found a breakthrough in the 40th minute, when Helinho unleashed a thunderous strike to score the Red Devils’ first goal of the series. The Brazilian remained central to the comeback, providing a pinpoint cross from the right flank that Paulinho converted in the 52nd minute to level the aggregate score.

The match went the full 90 minutes, and despite chances at both ends during extra time, neither side could find a winner. The penalty shootout followed, with all 11 players taking a kick. Both goalkeepers, Luis García and Nahuel Guzmán, missed their attempts, and in the 12th round, Ángel Correa failed to convert. Alexis Vega then buried the decisive penalty to seal a historic title for Toluca.

By winning the Apertura 2025, Toluca became just the fourth club to claim back-to-back Liga MX titles since the introduction of short tournaments in 1996. Previously, only Pumas UNAM, Club León, and Atlas had accomplished the feat, placing Toluca among an elite group in league history.

Pumas UNAM were the first to achieve the milestone, asserting their dominance by winning both tournaments in 2004. León later joined them with titles in the Apertura 2013 and Clausura 2014, a run that Atlas replicated in the 2021 and 2022 editions. The next benchmark remains Club América, the only side to win three consecutive Liga MX titles, a feat Toluca will now aim to challenge in 2026.

Toluca reach No. 2 spot among Liga MX title winners

Since appointing Antonio “Turco” Mohamed as head coach in December 2024, Toluca have emerged as a powerhouse throughout the 2025 calendar year. The Clausura 2025 title came via a 2-0 victory over Club América, and the dramatic triumph over Tigres further elevated the club’s standing among Liga MX’s most successful teams.

With this latest championship, Toluca now sit on 12 league titles, tied with Chivas Guadalajara for the second-most in Liga MX history. Sitting at the top with a considerable difference are Las Aguilas del America, with 16 trophies.

Updated top-10 list of Liga MX winners

• Club América: 16 titles.
• Guadalajara: 12 titles.
• Toluca: 12 titles.
• Cruz Azul: 9 titles.
• Club León: 8 titles.
• Tigres: 8 titles.
• Pumas UNAM: 7 titles.
• Pachuca: 7 titles.
• Santos Laguna: 6 titles.
• Monterrey: 5 titles.

Tadeo Allende emerged as one of Inter Miami’s standout performers during the 2025 season, even outscoring Lionel Messi during the postseason and setting a new MLS record. With his loan deal set to expire at the end of December 2025, the Argentine forward has now raised questions about whether he will remain with the Fort Lauderdale club.

After failing to settle at Celta Vigo, Allende opted to move to MLS, joining Messi’s Inter Miami on a one-year loan at the start of 2025. The deal did not include a purchase option, leaving Inter Miami facing potential negotiations with the Spanish club, an outcome that even the player admits remains uncertain.

While attending a meet-and-greet at a Miami sports shop, Allende spoke with reporters and reflected on his MLS campaign. “Right now, I feel really good about having scored this many goals, about finishing the playoffs in the best possible way, and above all about becoming champions with the whole group. That’s priceless. It will go down in the club’s history.” he said to Deportes Total USA.

When asked directly about a possible return to Inter Miami, Allende struck a cautious tone, neither confirming nor ruling out a future in MLS: “Day to day, family comes first, and we’ll see what happens. There’s still a long way to go. I’m also anxious — I have the same information you do. For now, tomorrow I’m going on vacation and I’m going to clear my head. Then we’ll see what happens.”

With a return to Celta Vigo currently the default scenario, reports have also surfaced suggesting Allende’s agent has offered him to River Plate ahead of the 2026 season. Asked whether a move back to Argentina would be a dream scenario, the striker declined to speculate: “That’s something I can’t answer for you.”

According to Transfermarkt, Allende’s market value stood at €2 million when he joined Inter Miami on loan and has since risen by more than 150 percent to €5 million. Celta Vigo paid €4.5 million to sign him from Godoy Cruz in January 2024, and after such a breakout season, the Spanish club will likely look to recoup, or even exceed that investment, potentially complicating Inter Miami’s efforts to retain him.

Allende enters the MLS record books

Initially deployed as a winger, Allende struggled to find consistency early in the season, including a 10-game MLS scoring drought midway through the campaign. His fortunes changed after shifting into a more central role, finishing the year as a striker with 24 goals and three assists in 54 appearances across all competitions.

His most explosive stretch came during the MLS Cup playoffs. As Inter Miami surged to a historic title, Allende delivered nine goals and two assists in six postseason matches, outscoring Messi and setting a new MLS record for goals in a single postseason, surpassing Carlos Ruiz’s mark of eight with the LA Galaxy.

Asked how he evolved so quickly, Allende credited both repetition and guidance from teammates for his breakthrough: “It was a bit of everything — also taking advice from my teammates, especially the goalkeepers. Taking my time, chipping the ball over keepers who struggle with that… I started to feel more confident, things began to click, and I gained confidence. Each time I felt more secure when it came to finishing.”

Kylian Mbappé has been thriving at the start of the 2025–26 season with Real Madrid, with the Spanish giants showing a growing reliance on their star to deliver results. After scoring again against Deportivo Alavés, Mbappé is now on the verge of breaking one of Cristiano Ronaldo’s most iconic goal-scoring records at the club.

With head coach Xabi Alonso under pressure to show improvement amid a challenging stretch, Real Madrid traveled to face Alavés on Sunday for Matchday 16 of La Liga. In the 2-1 victory, Mbappé opened the scoring with a brilliant solo effort in the 24th minute, a goal that moved him one step closer to history.

Mbappé has now scored 56 goals in the 2025 calendar year for Real Madrid and needs just four more to become the club’s all-time single-year top scorer. The record is currently held by Cristiano Ronaldo, who set the benchmark with 59 goals in 2013 during his time at the Bernabéu.

After a slow start following his arrival from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024, 2025 has marked a dramatic turnaround for Mbappé at Real Madrid. He scored 30 goals across all competitions in the first half of the year, including one at the FIFA Club World Cup, and has added another 26 so far this season, producing a staggering total.

Mbappé has become the only player outside of Ronaldo to crack Real Madrid’s top five list for goals in a calendar year, with the Portuguese legend occupying the remaining spots. The list currently stands as follows:

1. Cristiano Ronaldo — 2013: 59 goals.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo — 2012: 58 goals.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo — 2014: 56 goals.
4. Kylian Mbappe — 2025: 56 goals.
5. Cristiano Ronaldo — 2015: 54 goals.

How many chances does Mbappé have left?

The goal against Alavés leaves Mbappé tied with one of Ronaldo’s seasons at 56 goals. He is two goals shy of Ronaldo’s 58-goal campaign and three away from the all-time mark of 59, a record he will be eager to chase with limited opportunities remaining as the calendar year winds down.

With Sunday’s match now in the books, Real Madrid have just two games left in 2025. The next comes Wednesday, December 17, against Talavera CF in the Copa del Rey Round of 32, presenting a prime opportunity for Mbappé to add to his tally.

Real Madrid will then close out the year at home against Sevilla on Saturday, December 20, for Matchday 17 of La Liga. With the next fixture not scheduled until January 4 against Real Betis, Mbappé will need at least three goals to match Ronaldo’s record and four to surpass it, an achievement that would mark a historic statement just 18 months into his Real Madrid career.

Neymar and Kylian Mbappé formed one of the most explosive attacking duos in Paris Saint-Germain history, helping the club dominate French soccer for several seasons. However, their relationship eventually cooled, and years after their time together in Paris came to an end, a former PSG teammate has offered insight into how the bond between the two stars unraveled.

As part of PSG’s ambitious UEFA Champions League project, Neymar and Mbappé both arrived in Paris in the summer of 2017, Neymar via a world-record transfer from FC Barcelona and Mbappé initially on loan from AS Monaco before a massive permanent deal. One of the leaders of that squad was Thiago Silva, who witnessed firsthand the early chemistry between the two attacking stars.

In an interview with L’Équipe, Silva recalled the period leading up to their arrival and the strong connection they initially shared. “At Paris Saint-Germain, Mbappé and Neymar got along well at first, but their relationship deteriorated. Why? It was a beautiful story. I remember the Trophée des Champions match against Monaco, Kylian Mbappé’s team, in Morocco,” the defender stated, where PSG collected a 2-1 win on July 29.

The Brazilian defender then explained how Mbappé pushed for his move to Paris: “At the end of the match, Mbappé wanted to speak with me. He said, ‘Even if Neymar signs, I also want to come and be part of this team. If you could talk to the president…’ Both arrived that summer, and their relationship was incredible. They were very close, among the ones who had the most fun together on a daily basis.“

Silva left PSG as a free agent in 2020 to join Chelsea, meaning he was no longer at the club when the relationship soured. “I didn’t understand why they drifted apart. I was no longer at PSG by then. I don’t know which of the two caused the split, but it saddened me. They are two great guys, and it’s disappointing that it ended like that,” he concluded.

PSG reached a new peak in the 2019–20 season, when they advanced to their first Champions League final, losing 1-0 to Bayern Munich. The following season, Lionel Messi joined the club, but PSG never fully recaptured the dominance of the early Neymar–Mbappé years. With Messi and Neymar eventually leaving Paris, tensions within the squad became more evident, and Silva’s comments now shed more light on the internal dynamic.

Silva on Neymar’s recovery ahead of the World Cup

Now 41 and playing for Brazilian side Fluminense, Thiago Silva is enjoying the final chapter of an illustrious career away from Europe and the Brazil national team spotlight. Neymar, meanwhile, remains focused on returning to the Seleção ahead of the 2026 World Cup, though persistent injury issues have complicated that path.

During the interview, Silva defended his longtime teammate and emphasized Neymar’s professionalism: “He’s judged unfairly. I assure you that he is preparing the right way, that he is determined to be at his best for the World Cup. Don’t forget that he is coming off a serious injury to his left knee. Contrary to what people think, Neymar is doing the right things.“

Despite feeling physically strong in recent months, Neymar is now expected to undergo surgery on his left knee as part of his recovery process. “Before one of his recent physical setbacks, he felt in perfect shape. But that’s when injuries happen. You feel so good that you push yourself too hard, and then something gives,” the defender added.

Santiago Giménez joined AC Milan at the beginning of 2025 as the club’s most significant attacking prospect. However, injuries and inconsistency have hampered the Mexican striker’s ability to shine, while the team continues to struggle offensively, despite maintaining a position among the top teams in Serie A. As a result, his future appears uncertain, with Christian Pulisic‘s Rossoneri already eyeing two Premier League strikers ahead of January 2026.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, AC Milan’s medical staff has given the green light for Santiago Giménez to return to the pitch following his ankle injury. However, the Mexican continues to train separately and is undergoing psychological treatment, as he is not satisfied with his situation, which suggests a potential transfer in the coming months. In addition, the Rossoneri are targeting two Premier League strikers.

To support the attacking prowess of Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao, AC Milan seem determined to strengthen its squad with a center forward in January 2026. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Joshua Zirkzee has become one of the team’s main targets. The Dutchman shone in Serie A with Bologna, but his spell in the Premier League has not been the best, as he has been relegated to a secondary role. Alongside him, another striker is emerging strongly.

Considering the challenge of signing Zirkzee due to Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo departing for AFCON with their national teams, the Rossoneri have already targeted Niclas Fullkrug from West Ham. Even though he is 32 years old, he has showcased his scoring prowess. Compared to the Dutchman, the German striker has been left out of the project by coach Nuno Espírito Santo, who counts on Jarrod Bowen, Crysencio Summerville, and Callum Wilson as the main strikers.

Joshua Zirkzee may not fit Allegri’s plan at AC Milan

At just 24 years old, Joshua Zirkzee remains one of the most promising players today. Although his current situation at Manchester United does not reflect this, the Dutchman has already shone with Bologna in Serie A, leading AC Milan’s sporting director, Igli Tare, to consider him one of the best options. However, his style of play is similar to that of Santiago Gimenez, a modern center forward, almost a second striker, so they would repeat the same player profile.

In most teams coached by Allegri, he has opted for a center forward who is much more of a goal scorer but who also knows how to be very mobile, which has meant that the Mexican has not been the profile he is looking for. Like Santiago, Joshua shines with another, more goal-scoring center forward leading the line, which means that a possible fit at AC Milan may not be what the club is really looking for, as Giménez is being left out of the team.

It does not mean that Joshua Zirkzee is not a talented player, but rather that it would mean having the same profile that you already have in the squad and that did not fit, generating at least some doubts from the outset. For this reason, the profile of Niclas Füllkrug, a more traditional striker, fits with the constant mobility of Rafael Leão and Christian Pulisic, despite his age raising certain doubts.

Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba have undeniably been two of Inter Miami’s defining figures, not only during the 2025 campaign but ever since their arrival in 2023. That process reached one of its highest points with the club’s MLS Cup triumph. Following a productive 2025 MLS season, both Messi and Alba have now received special recognition from the franchise.

The 2025 season has officially come to an end, with the Philadelphia Union lifting the Supporters’ Shield and Inter Miami defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps to claim the MLS Cup. As MLS clubs hand out internal awards to recognize standout performances, Inter Miami did the same, honoring Messi and Alba with two of the club’s top individual accolades.

Lionel Messi was named Inter Miami’s Most Valuable Player of the Year. Coming off his best season since joining the club, the Argentine posted 43 goals and 26 assists in 49 appearances across all competitions. Messi also became the first player to win the Landon Donovan MLS MVP Award in back-to-back seasons, and he was an unsurprising choice to top Inter Miami’s internal honors as well.

Meanwhile, in what is set to be his final season as a professional player, Jordi Alba was named Inter Miami CF’s Defensive Player of the Year for 2025. The award reflected not only his defensive consistency, but also his impact going forward, as the veteran fullback recorded eight goals and 16 assists in 52 matches, often serving as an extra attacking outlet.

Back in 2024, both Messi and Alba were selected to the MLS Best XI after Inter Miami claimed the Supporters’ Shield during the regular season. The 2025 campaign was different, as Messi was the only Herons player included in the league’s Best XI, but Alba’s influence throughout the season remained impossible to ignore.

Messi and Alba’s numbers at Inter Miami

The year 2023 marked a turning point for Inter Miami, a club that had been near the bottom of the MLS standings and without a trophy since its foundation. Following the arrivals of Messi and Alba, the club reached a new level, adding the Leagues Cup, the Supporters’ Shield, and the MLS Cup to its trophy cabinet.

Jordi Alba will close the chapter on his professional career after making 103 appearances for Inter Miami, becoming one of the few players to reach the century mark, and also with 15 goals and 33 assists, the second-highest assist total in club history. Lionel Messi, meanwhile, has registered 77 goals and 44 assists in 88 matches, an extraordinary rate of production that he will look to extend during the 2026 season.

Match Overview

The Liga MX Apertura 2025 championship will be settled in a single, high-stakes night as Toluca hosts Tigres UANL in the decisive second leg. Tigres hold a slim 1–0 lead from the opening match, but the result did little to separate two evenly matched sides.

Backed by their home crowd, Toluca aim to defend the title claimed earlier this year and cap off a dominant 2025, while Tigres look to spoil the celebration and lift the trophy themselves in a tense, winner-take-all showdown—don’t miss a moment of this must-watch finale.

Despite his departure in 2021, Lionel Messi has managed to remain the greatest player in the history of Barcelona, establishing himself as the club’s all-time top scorer and assist provider. Nevertheless, the team has managed to resurge without him, led by young players such as Pedri, who is spearheading the new era. The young Spaniard has even recently surpassed a historic LaLiga appearances record previously held by the Argentine.

According to OptaJose on X, formerly Twitter, Pedri Gonzalez has become the youngest player in Barcelona‘s history to reach 150 appearances in La Liga at the age of 23 years and 18 days. With this achievement, the Spaniard star has surpassed Lionel Messi, who had held the record since October 2010, achieving it at 23 years and 121 days after starting against Real Zaragoza.

Far from being a player similar to Messi, Pedri has managed to become the most influential player at Barcelona. Without being a goal scorer or assist provider, the Spaniard has become the defensive and creative axis of Hansi Flick’s team, to the point of being irreplaceable. For this reason, the 23-year-old star promises to leave a historic legacy at Barcelona, leading the Culers to their first Champions League after the Argentine era.

Lionel Messi still remains the most iconic player in Barcelona’s history. Pedri may have managed to surpass him in one record, but the Argentine remains the player with the most appearances in the club’s history, having played 778 matches for the team. In addition, he also stands as the player with the most goals in the history of the club, with 672 goals. For that reason, the Argentine star is not comparable with Pedri, who is still writing his own chapter.

Andres Iniesta raves about Pedri’s massive impact at Barcelona

Although Pedri may not boast the most outstanding statistics, he remains as a key star player of Barcelona’s game structure. As a crucial figure in offense, defense, and playmaking, the Spaniard orchestrates the flow of the game from midfield. Recognizing this, Andrés Iniesta didn’t hesitate to praise the 23-year-old, analyzing his distinctive playing characteristics.

“I like Pedri. He is an extraordinary soccer player. I love him because he has a story behind him full of hard work and overcoming adversity… he is a differential player, capable of building plays that did not exist before. He invents passes that nobody had previously seen because he possesses great talent and, in addition, he is gradually acquiring an increasingly important role, both at Barcelona and with the Spanish national team,” Iniesta said, via Revista Barça.

With the majority of the 2025-26 season still ahead, Pedri has firmly established himself as Barcelona’s most influential player. His absence disrupts the team’s rhythm significantly. Recognizing his impact, coach Hansi Flick has ensured he remains one of the key players, clocking in 1,444 minutes on the field, even after missing some due to injury. If he can maintain his physical consistency, the Culers could realistically aspire to win all titles this season.

Lamine Yamal is expected to be one of the headliners in the upcoming Finalissima between Spain and Argentina next March, a matchup that would see him share the field with Lionel Messi for the first time. However, despite finishing as the runner-up in the 2025 Ballon d’Or, the Barcelona star was overlooked by Julián Álvarez, who instead selected two other Spain internationals to represent Argentina.

Álvarez has firmly established himself as one of the world’s top strikers and remains a key figure for the Argentina side that lifted the World Cup. Now starring for Atlético Madrid in La Liga, the forward has already faced Yamal multiple times domestically, but the teenager still does not appear to be his preferred fit for a hypothetical Albiceleste lineup.

During a rapid-fire interview with Marca, and with the Finalissima approaching, Álvarez was asked which Spain player he would choose to play for Argentina. “Rodri,” the striker replied, naming his former Manchester City teammate with whom he won the UEFA Champions League.

Álvarez was then given the opportunity to make a second selection, and once again Yamal was left out. “Pedri,” he answered immediately, opting for another FC Barcelona standout rather than the highly touted 18-year-old winger.

With Spain already securing qualification for the World Cup by finishing atop their group, the Finalissima no longer faces another postponement and is expected to go ahead as planned. While no official announcement has been made, the match is projected for Friday, March 27, at Lusail Stadium in Doha, a stage where Yamal could look to prove Álvarez wrong against one of the world’s elite national teams.

Yamal leads head-to-head against Álvarez

Julián Álvarez’s move to Spain coincided with Yamal’s breakout 2024–25 season. While Álvarez was still at Manchester City, the two never crossed paths at club or international level, but frequent clashes between Atlético Madrid and Barcelona have since created a growing rivalry.

Álvarez has faced Yamal’s Barcelona five times, recording just one win, a match in which Yamal was sidelined with an ankle injury in December 2024. In the four meetings since, Barcelona have claimed three victories along with a 4-4 draw. During that stretch, Yamal has registered one goal and two assists, while Álvarez has scored twice and added one assist, giving the edge to the Spanish teenager so far.

Cristiano Ronaldo has managed to remain one of the players in the best form in the Saudi Pro League, showing his imposing goal-scoring power by scoring 11 goals in 12 matches in the 2025–26 season. After renewing his contract until 2027, the Portuguese star aims to become the club’s all-time top scorer, being just 20 goals away from achieving it. Despite this, he is planning his post-retirement life and has reportedly become a shareholder of Al Nassr.

According to 365 Scores, Cristiano Ronaldo has made the surprising decision to acquire an ownership stake in Al Nassr. The Portuguese star plans to purchase 15% of the club, valued at £50 million (approximately $66.7 million). With this move, the veteran aims to contribute to the club’s growth strategy beyond his professional career, showcasing the strong business ambition that drives him.

While the Portuguese star would become a minority shareholder, he seeks to progressively increase his stake in the club, aiming to become a majority shareholder. With this, Cristiano Ronaldo makes it clear that his intention to live in Saudi Arabia after his retirement is firm, becoming the most transformative figure in the country’s soccer by contributing both directly and indirectly to the development of the league.

With Cristiano’s emergence as stockholder, Al Nassr have made the decision to change their structural model, becoming pioneers in the Saudi Pro League by combining a private investment model that seeks to compete against European teams and increase the arrival of sponsors to help improve the team’s competitiveness. With this, the Portuguese star establishes himself as a legend in the making at the club.

Cristiano Ronaldo becomes a transformative figure at Al Nassr

Since his arrival in Saudi Arabia in 2023, Cristiano Ronaldo has shown that he is far from retirement, maintaining his imposing goal-scoring ability. In 117 matches, the Portuguese star has scored 101 goals and provided 28 assists, making him the league’s top scorer over the last two seasons. Moreover, he also attracted numerous high-profile players to the league, such as João Félix, Kingsley Coman, and Iñigo Martínez, highlighting his immense impact.

Although Cristiano has not yet managed to win any official title with Al Nassr, the team appears to be in its best position to claim the league title. Jorge Jesus’ arrival has transformed the team’s reality, remaining unbeaten in nine Saudi Pro League matches, with the veteran Portuguese star being the team’s second top scorer behind Joao Felix. In case of reaching the league title, Ronaldo would consolidate as a legend in the team, chasing more titles in his tenure until 2027.

After several years of poor performances, Brazil decided to make a strong bet on Carlo Ancelotti, bringing him to his first professional experience managing a national team. Amid uncertainty, the Italian managed to bring the Verde-Amarela back to life, imposing a clear attacking style and restoring defensive stability. In light of this, the coach has taken the first step to clarify his future after the 2026 World Cup.

According to Rodrigo Mattos in UOL Esporte, Carlo Ancelotti has initiated talks with the Brazilian Soccer Confederation (CBF) to discuss his professional future. The Italian coach reportedly seeks to extend his contract beyond the 2026 World Cup, aiming for it to last until the 2030 World Cup. Moreover, he shows a willingness to maintain his current annual salary of €10 million.

While logic might suggest that Ancelotti’s future would depend on Brazil‘s performance in the 2026 World Cup, the UOL Esporte report claims that the CBF is quite open to negotiating an early extension of his contract until 2030. With this, Brazil showcase that the sporting project is not short-term, but rather that progressive growth is expected with young players such as Estevao joining the national team.

Ancelotti forces a bold roster transformation, redefining Brazil

Carlo Ancelotti has managed to carry out a true transformation with Brazil, making defensive stability a clear priority. With the double pivot of Bruno Guimarães and Casemiro, the national team has built an imposing defensive base in which Marquinhos and Gabriel emerge as key figures. In addition, Wesley and Vitinho have emerged as options at right-back, composing a renovated defense that promises to mark a difference.

Not only has defensive stability improved, but offensive freedom has once again taken center stage for Brazil. With Raphinha, Estevao, Vinícius, and Rodrygo, they have found great versatility in attack, as they can move across the entire front line, making them quite unpredictable. Moreover, João Pedro and Matheus Cunha are establishing themselves as the main strikers looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup, giving the national team a completely renewed image.

Due to his clear focus on youth, Carlo Ancelotti appears to be sidelining some veteran players who are eyeing a ‘last dance’ at the 2026 World Cup. Both Neymar Jr. and Thiago Silva have expressed their desire to remain in contention for the national team. However, the rise of young talents excelling in Europe limits their chances of making the roster, prompting the coach to prioritize the sporting project over securing spots for established stars.

After expressing concerns over limited playing time, Mohamed Salah returned to the pitch for Liverpool in their victory against Brighton. Although the Egyptian forward didn’t score, he made a significant impact by providing an assist that enabled him to break an all-time Premier League record. Following the match, Virgil van Dijk commented on the situation, praising Arne Slot‘s management and revealing additional insights.

“I think he’s handled the situation very well. Calm in his own way. It is a very tricky situation. There is a lot of noise and pressure from the outside world, obviously and rightly so because we’ve not been up or close to the standard of last season but we are human beings and everyone reacts in a different way. But personally looking at it and the conversations we’ve had on a daily basis, I think he’s handled it very well,” Virgil van Dijk said in the latest press conference.

Far from imposing his perspective aggressively, Arne Slot showed firmness while always keeping the door open to dialogue with Salah, making it clear that everything had a solution under certain criteria. With this, the coach earned the respect of the locker room and also set a boundary with one of the most important players in Liverpool‘s history. Additionally, the Egyptian’s reintegration into the team’s dynamics has proven to be the right decision.

Mohamed Salah showed elite professionalism, van Dijk reveals

Although Mohamed Salah faced being benched for three consecutive games and was left off the roster against Inter Milan, the Egyptian continued to exemplify outstanding off-field conduct. Unlike other cases, he remained fully committed to team training throughout. Virgil van Dijk even shared insightful details about the 33-year-old star’s behavior during this challenging period, highlighting his professionalism.

“Mo reacted perfectly fine. He was good against Brighton. He was good Sunday and Monday when we were training. He didn’t travel but trained on Friday together and he was perfectly fine too. It is all about how the team reacts but in my eyes and what I see and speaking to the guys, everyone handled it perfectly well. I think we showed this week we are absolutely united and we go forward as one,” Virgil van Dijk said in the latest press conference.

In his return to the roster, Salah showcased his impressive level, demonstrating decisiveness with his speed. After coming on for Joe Gomez, Dominik Szoboszlai moved to right back, leaving the Egyptian as a winger. There, he provided the assist for Hugo Ekitike’s goal. This performance makes it evident that coach relies on the veteran, indicating that his departure from the team may not be straightforward, as his professionalism and impact continue to impress.

Match Overview

Real Madrid enter this La Liga matchup under intense pressure, knowing the margin for error has all but disappeared after Barcelona’s recent victory pushed the gap at the top to seven points. Powered by the attacking presence of Kylian Mbappe, the Spanish giants need a full three points to stay firmly in the championship conversation.

On the other side, Deportivo Alaves arrive with plenty at stake themselves, hovering just above the relegation line while still harboring realistic ambitions of climbing toward the European places. With both clubs fighting for very different but equally meaningful goals, this showdown carries major implications across the standings.

Vinicius Jr. has firmly established himself as one of the world’s top players, leading Real Madrid to multiple titles. Despite these achievements, his performance in the 2025-26 season has not been at its best, as he endures a 15-game scoring drought that raises doubts about his leadership of the team. Amid tensions regarding his contract renewal, Vinicius disclosed to his teammates the real reason behind his poor form.

Unlike in previous seasons, Vinicius Jr. has managed to score just 5 goals and register 7 assists in 22 games, with a notable streak of 15 consecutive matches without scoring. According to Jose Felix Diaz of Diario AS, the Brazilian winger confided in his Real Madrid teammates that he isn’t in peak physical condition, which has impacted his speed and endurance.

Far from being upset, Real Madrid’s executives, headed by President Florentino Perez, have understood the Brazilian’s statements, according to Diario AS. In addition, the club is said to be very confident that Vinicius Jr. will regain his best form, meaning that his contract and future at the club are not at risk. Despite this, the 25-year-old star already has a limit set on his contract offer, marking a clear limit on his renewal.

Vinicius Jr. reportedly knows Real Madrid’s final renewal offer limit

After Kylian Mbappe’s arrival, Vinicius Jr. has been displaced as Real Madrid’s cornerstone. Although he continues to play a leading role, the team’s attack no longer revolves around him but rather around the Frenchman. However, the Brazilian reportedly believes he deserves an improved contract, having led the team to several trophies. While the team is not opposed to this, it has allegedly set a clear limit on the renewal offer.

According to Le Journal Du Real, Real Madrid have informed Vinícius Jr. and his agents that they will not enhance the current contract renewal offer. Reports indicate that the Brazilian forward is seeking a salary of €30 million per season, but the club remains steadfast at an offer of around €20-22 million. Consequently, the 25-year-old star must decide whether to accept this offer or face the possibility of being sold in the summer transfer window of 2026.

While the Brazilian hoped for a higher offer, his renewal might just be a matter of time, as both parties want to extend his tenure until mid-2030, according to Jose Felix Diaz in Diario AS. With this in mind, Vinicius Jr. is focused on regaining peak physical form to enhance his impact on the team. He aims to break his current streak of 15 games without scoring, leading the offense alongside Kylian Mbappe.

Match Overview

Arsenal responded in style on Matchday 16, rebounding from a 2–1 setback against Aston Villa by securing a much-needed victory over Wolverhampton, a result that reinforced their hold on first place and turned up the heat on Manchester City, who now find themselves five points back in the title chase.

With the race tightening, City approach this weekend knowing three points would cut the gap to two, but the challenge is anything but simple as a red-hot Crystal Palace arrives in top form and firmly in the hunt for a Champions League spot, setting the stage for a must-watch clash.

Match Overview

One of Europe’s fiercest rivalries returns this weekend as Ajax host Feyenoord in Amsterdam for another edition of De Klassieker, a game loaded with significance in the Eredivisie race. Feyenoord sit second in the table but trails PSV by nine points, leaving little margin for error.

Meanwhile, Ajax come in searching for a spark after recent struggles in domestic and international competition. With pressure on both sides and bragging rights at stake, this derby promises high drama—make sure you don’t miss it.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 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 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.

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.”

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.

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.

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.

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.

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’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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 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. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.